Volume 1: A Second Chance

by tenshi.yudashi

The Pokemon world is filled with wonder. This story follows Kyle Bredeson and the unfortunate series of events that follows his recent encounter with a Mewtwo. Rated M for Gore, Sexual Content, and Violence. WARNING: Contains a scene of rape.

15. Chapter 15:Friendship before the War

THIS TOOK A LONG TIME BUT I WANTED IT TO FEEL NATURAL. I USED MULTIPLE NEW TOOLS TO TRY AND EDIT MY GRAMMAR AND SPELLING. I HOPE YOU ENJOY THE FINAL PEACEFUL CHAPTER BEFORE ALL HELL BREAKS LOOSE. THANK YOU ALL FOR YOUR PATIENCE AND TIME. I APOLOGIZE FOR THE DELAY.

AT THE UNKNOWN USER WHO KEEPS POSTING REVIEWS...THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT AND INPUT. I PROMISE THAT I HAVE TAKEN NOTICE AND IT FILLS ME WITH JOY AND CREATIVITY TO SEE SOMEONE QUESTIONING MY WORK. I PROMISE THAT YOU WON'T LEAVE DISAPPOINTED. TRUST ME ON THAT.

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My silent alarm woke me up from a deep sleep, with a vibration on the crook of my elbow. I groaned quietly but got up. Since time was of the essence, I decided to get up early today and get a start on training, while everyone else slept. As I slid my clothes on, I noticed that the room was surprisingly empty. Lula, Rose, and Bry were nowhere to be found. I pondered it momentarily as I closed the door behind me. While unexpected, I was positive they had probably all found different corners to go sleep in. I tiptoed downstairs quietly and exited the mansion. As I looked in on my sister, a smile formed on my lips. Her starter cuddled tightly like a giant teddy bear the two looked so content. A small snore echoed out, and I let out a small giggle as the Braixen's ear flicked in annoyance. Taking the steps two at a time, I rushed out the back door with sneakers in hand. My mouth fell open as I came face to face with my entire team. All of them sat in a line waiting expectantly for me.

"Master. We are ready to train," Lula spoke up, her voice filled with pep. Glancing to Rose and Bry I couldn't help but smile. They had snuck out to await me for training which was the best gift they could have given me today.

"What are you guys doing up so early?"

"We could ask you the same thing," Rose intervened. "Training without your team? How inconsiderate. Especially since we are your friends. You don't even have a plan for us for the battlefield. Do you?"

Her words caught me off guard, and I couldn't help but bite my lip anxiously.

"Kyle. It's cool. That's why we are all here. Everyone here wants to do their best for you. So that being said, let's discuss our way forward," Bryan said, leaping up to my arm. I caught him with relative ease and placed him onto my shoulder.

"I've thought about that but I didn't want to upset anyone here by denying them the chance to fight alongside me," I spoke, cautiously. "You guys are my friends and I want you all to know that no matter what happens, I have treasured every minute with you by my side. Even you Rose."

She gave me an angry glare before her lip turned up into a small smile.

"Master. I want to fight alongside you against Mewtwo," Lula spoke up. I turned to face her and noticed that Bryan followed my gaze.

"I don't care what you want Lula. We had this discussion. I'm fighting with Kyle against Mewtwo. Outside of your Fairy attacks, what moves do you have to deal massive damage against him?" Rose snapped at her.

"It's not your decision," Lula retorted, letting out a small snort. I stared at the two incredulous. There was an air of tension and I couldn't discern the reasoning behind it. They had their disagreements from time to time, but things had seemed amicable of the past few days. As a matter of fact, the two had grown rather close since Rose and I had mega evolved. Not inseparable but friendly. Any second now it appeared a fight might break out between the two.

"While you are a close-range Dark-type fighter, I'm a ranged Fighter. I can snipe Mewtwo. Also with me dealing neutral damage, you can be sure I won't kill him. But you could always kill him. You would wouldn't you? Just to get revenge for Kat-"

"Don't you dare! I loved my sister!"

"Hey guys...calm down," I interrupted, trying to mediate between my two friends.

"Tell her Kyle. I'm not here for revenge! I've told you time and time again. Why don't you believe me?" Rose pleaded. I stared into her golden amber eyes, searching for proof that she was lying. My chest ached, as she asked me to reaffirm that she was right. My own doubts proved to be too many for me to respond. I hesitated and bit my cheek on accident, making me wince in pain.

"See? Even Master doesn't believe you. So that means I should be the one to protect him. Kat protected him last time, and I stood by and watched helplessly. This time I'll get to do whatever it takes to save him."

"HA! Don't make me laugh. You watched because it suited you," Rose retorted, growling loudly. A stream of water slammed into Rose. The attack made her cry out in pain before rolling several times. As she came to a stop, I rushed to her side. As our eyes met, she brushed me off with a cold shoulder.

"Stop it you two," I demanded, watching as Rose shook the water out. Before she could retaliate, I placed myself in front of her face. A look of betrayal overcame Rose's face. That action immediately made my chest burn with guilt. I had unintentionally picked Lula's side by preventing her retaliation.

"You believe her. Kyle-" she whispered. I could hear the pain in her voice and reached out only for her to retreat.

"I don't Rose. It's just been hard after everything you and I have been through to think you don't have some ulterior motive. I love you all very much."

Downcast she averted her gaze from mine and I couldn't help but try to change the topic. I needed to get us all together, not tear us apart.

"With that being said, I am not sure Lula fighting alongside me is a good idea. Mewtwo isn't an opponent we want to chip damage until he's down. We need to take him down fast. The longer he is in play, the more danger you all will be in. If you want to help, then I think I know the best way you could. Keep Reshiram off of us."

Her eyes widened, and she blushed hard.

"Reshiram is another legendary. If you put her against him there's a good chance he'll tear her apart!" Bryan stated, hesitantly.

"Her typing makes it unlikely that will happen. Not only that but if we leave it unchecked, we put Rose and me in danger. I'll be helping Eon take Mewtwo down as best I can. The strength difference between you and him, is an issue, Lula. More importantly, as my starter, I don't want him to exploit my feelings for you to his advantage," I said, tenderly. My words stung and I knew it. Kissing her cheek, I watched the water fill her eyes.

"I want to protect you though," Lula whispered loudly. She looked at me pleadingly and I felt my heart melt. Our time together held far more sway than any argument I could present. I could sense the torment rolling off of her in waves. She wasn't happy with my decision, but I was sticking by it for now.

"It's not like Rose gives a damn if you survive or not!"

Before I could stop it, Rose smacked Lula hard. The sound echoed throughout the night, and the two glared at each other. The Absol trembled violently before storming back into the house. The door clicked with a finality leaving the three of us alone.

"LULA!" I reprimanded watching her gaze fall down. Her eyes watered, but I refused to back down. I kneeled down until we were eye to eye. She met my anger without regret or fear. It was so out of character it took me a minute before I composed my thoughts.

"Rose is now part of this team. Despite what you may want, you will respect her as such. I won't tolerate your attitude." I said vehemently. She looked down before responding.

"I meant what I said, Master. She hasn't shown you any kindness while she's been here. You call her your friend, but she's hurt you time and time again. I refuse to standby and let her break your heart. Especially if she's only here to kill Mewtwo."

I was conflicted by her words. There was an air of truth to what she said, however, I wasn't supposed to take sides. They were both precious which meant I had to put my foot down. Rose needed to know that I cared for her.

"You will apologize to her, Lula," I said in a threatening tone.

"Or?" she taunted. My anger peaked at her response. She had never challenged me in the past eight years of our relationship. Gritting my teeth, I made my stand. She had forced my hand and I wasn't going to let her get away with it.

"You apologize or you will stay here for the final battle. And if I die, you can think about how you couldn't get over your pride, to protect me," I responded. Her eyes widened and Bry audibly gasped at the threat.

"Y-you wouldn't," Lula stammered. I could sense her resolve waver as I glared daggers into her eyes. Her facade faded and she backed away fearfully.

"And you've never been one to disobey me. Yet here we are. I cannot have an unruly Pokemon in this fight. I need you all to work together and if that can't happen, someone might end up dying. I could never forgive myself for that," I replied. She hung her head, and I could tell she wasn't happy with the logic. However, we both knew that my logic was sound.

"I'm sorry M-master. I will go apologize to her," my water/fairy type responded. She created a bubble and floated back into the mansion leaving me alone with Bryan.

"That was a bit harsh. Kyle. Rose may be hard to get along with but she hasn't directly tried to hurt you," the little Emolga spoke up. I sighed heavily. The argument hit harder than I expected.

"She's right to an extent, Bry. Rose hasn't exactly been kind towards me, but that doesn't mean I distrust her. She's done nothing to warrant me hating her. Her dislike for humans is disconcerting though. There's always the chance she would switch to Mewtwo's side and I'm scared her loyalty to me is tenuous at best." I paused as I tried to choose my next words carefully.

"Yet despite the arguments we have had, I still really care for her a lot. I really appreciate her forwardness. She hasn't been afraid to voice her opinions and tell me what is really bothering her. Her direct approach to everything has been a blessing and a bit of a curse. I love her for it."

Bry shook his head and sighed.

"What?" I demanded.

"it's just that after all the abuse you've suffered at her claws, I'm sure anyone else would have kicked her off the team, Kyle. She may not care at all about you," the glider said, as he launched himself off my shoulder. He landed on the wooden railing and walked over my hands to stare at the sky.

"I know Bryan. I really do. However, I want her here. She...she helps with the loss of Katherine. I won't get over that anytime soon, but having her here makes the pain of my best friend being gone much less."

"Katherine?"

"Ah. You weren't there for that. Katherine is Rose's sister. A normal Absol but the best thing to happen to me. And the worst. Suffice it to say, I...I failed to protect her and she ended up dying," I said, my hands starting to tremble at the mere memory.

"I'm sorry for your loss. But she isn't right for you, Kyle. She doesn't care-"

"You have no right runt!" a growl spoke up from behind us. We turned to find both Lula and Rose had returned ready to train.

"Speak of the devil," the electric flying type responded, rolling his eyes.

"Rose. Keep it down. We don't want to wake the others,: `I spoke quickly. Her eyes turned to me and she averted her gaze. Shame filled my cheeks with blood, and I swiftly kneeled down.

"She apologized, but now it's my turn. Rose. I'm sorry that I hurt you. I should trust you and not put my feelings above your word. Forgive me? " I begged. The radiant glow of her eyes within pulled me forwards, but I resisted the urge to lean in.

"I forgive you, Kyle. I know I haven't made things easy on you. Trust me when I say this. If I kill Mewtwo, it won't be because of what he did to my sister. I'll hold back as much as I can spare. I want- no need to follow your lead. I promise to protect you as best I can. Just...trust me please?" she asked.

I nodded firmly.

"I promise. Okay. With that being settled, it's time to get some training done. You guys ready?" I asked.

Three heads bobbed in sync, as we all took up spots on the opposite side of the field.

"Alright. So here's how I think today's training will go for us until Eon joins us. Bry and I will spar against you two," I said turning to my starter.

"Why her?" Lula asked, confused.

"First and foremost, we need you to get prepared to deal with Electric types. Also, you both despise each other. Some training together might be good to help build your friendship up and get us ready for tomorrow night. Even if it's just for a day," I said, smiling broadly.

"So that means you and I'll be a team! YAY!" Bryan cheered softly, jumping up to my shoulder.

"Yup. I wanna see what my newest team addition is capable of. Don't hold back for my sake. Kay?"

Grinning, the four of us moved in sync to the battlefield taking our respective places.

"You got Lula right?" I asked him as he ruffled my hair a little bit.

"You bet! However, close your eyes. I wanna try something real quick," he said.

"You guys ready?" I hissed across the distance. The sun just started to break over the horizon and spread its warmth to us. Glancing at my Pokewatch I took notice of the time. It was just around 5 am. Focusing on my opponents in front of me, I closed my eyes.

"Let's do this!" Lula called out softly.

"Quick. Focus on the color blue and place your hands together at your hip," Bryan instructed me. I did as he asked, ignoring the fear that filled my gut knowing I was completely disadvantaged. The feeling from our first touch returned and my emotions faded into a point in between the palms of my hands. It spread my arms apart and coalesced. Opening my eyes, I noticed a sphere of energy filled the space and whirled brilliantly.

"An aura sphere!" I exclaimed in shock.

"ON YOUR RIGHT!" Bryan shouted, alerting me to Rose reaching straight for me with a massive Shadow Claw. Aiming forward at her chest, I released the orb watching it slam into her ribcage. An explosion rippled off of her body, throwing her head over heels. My eyes flicked left, in time to recognize the hydro pump aimed straight for me. Pushing off, I zigzagged towards Primarina, who fired off a large icy wind. Part of the attack grabbed at my hand slowing down my approach to her. I pressed my hand into the dirt freeing it of the ice and launched myself at her. She smirked, my eyes barely registering the attack almost too late. I brought my guard up as her tail rammed my shoulder, knocking me off balance.

Milotic taught her that. Nice!

As I flipped sideways, I caught myself on my strong left arm. Trying to finish the spring, Rose shocked me by headbutting my arm, sending me into the dirt. My eyes widened as Rose and simultaneous special attacks directly at my prone body. Curling up, I was shocked as both were warded off by a single bolt of lighting which dispelled them in a massive explosion. The wind rippled, and I rolled back to my feet, just in time for Rose to jump through the smoke. Raising my hand in preparation to ward off her attack she stopped just in front of me.

"KYLE! LOOK OUT!" Bry called out. Before I could react, another Hydro Pump cut through the smoke. It rushed over Rose and kicked the literal dog shit out of me. Sputtering, I shook my head and tried to get my bearings as I stood. Rose appeared nonchalant about the damage and recognized what they had done. Smart planning on their part, and yet I had been fighting solo, and leaving Bryan to focus on defense. Getting serious about the actual training, and recognizing the significance of combining our attacks, I immediately rushed to his position.

Lula attempted to halt my movement with a blinding Dazzling Gleam which ripped through the darkness and almost blinded me and Bryan. Warding off the energy with my right arm over my eyes, I scooped up the rodent In a swift motion. Whispering a quick plan, I launched him skywards and dashed to intercept Rose. Her eyes narrowed, as she glanced up towards Bryan. Recognizing her distraction, I kicked my speed up to the best I could at level 55. I closed the gap, watching as her eyes widened. She was on the defensive which played perfectly into our plans. As Primarina fired a water gun straight at him, I performed a suspended sweep and turn kick in rapid succession. As I came around, my foot-launched me into a sprint where I blitzed Lula. Before she could react, I had caught her, giving Bryan a clear shot to fire an electric attack at her. To his credit, the opening was good enough as a giant thunderbolt came from overhead in a nanosecond. I barely had time to let go of my starter, and get a little distance before the lightning struck. As I recovered from my hectic jump away, I cried out as Rose bit into my arm. She flipped herself up over my wrist and delivered a swift double kick to my face. Staggered, I placed my hands in front of my face instinctively. Before she could follow up, a blur slammed into Rose sending her sliding through the dirt. Huffing the four of us stared at each other menacingly. Holding up a hand, I smiled at my teammate.

"That's it for now. Good improvisation on both your parts," I called out. Before I could speak another word, clapping from the porch caught my attention. Glancing up I noticed that Eon, Elaina, and Sarah had been watching our sparring match from the distance. A blush overcame my cheeks, as Rose moved up to me.

"Are you okay? I didn't mean to-"

"Yeah. I'm fine. Why?" I questioned. A moment later, I realized what she was concerned about, as my vision turned a little red as blood dripped down into my eyes.

"Kyle! I-I-"

Wiping the viscous blood out my field of view, I chuckled at the Dark-type, attempting to apologize.

"It's fine. Really. Are you guys okay? Lula?"I turned towards my water type who let out a small gleeful cry.

"All well Master. Bryan hits hard, but he obviously held back on that attack." Lula said.

"I couldn't have killed you if I tried, but I definitely could have made you think twice about ignoring me," Bryan said proudly.

The four of us moved towards the trio who stood on the wooden balcony awaiting our return.

"Aura sphere though? Really? How is that even possible?" Rose demanded, glaring at the male who sat on my scalp.

"I can sense Aura. When I'm with someone who has an extremely strong connection, I can actually help him utilize it like a conduit. How to put this….Ummmm…" he stumbled as he tried to come up with a proper explanation for the phenomenon we had just experienced.

"Is it like Mega Evolution? I've heard that when a trainer and Pokemon are super close, they can practically feel the urge to move to the next heights. That the only thing separating them from attaining that power is a stone," Lula asked. I glanced at Rose and considered her words.

I wouldn't believe that. Rose has no deep feelings for me right?

I thought hard on my internal dilemma about the situation before me. I wanted to say the answer was no. In fact, as I reflected on our attempts to mega evolve, I couldn't feel anything positive directed towards me. If her words were to be believed, she hated me. She disliked humans. However, on the other hand, she had stated earlier that she cared. My head started to ache as I wandered over and over which was true. She hid things, yet tried to defend me. She constantly judged and criticized but sought my approval. She never complained that I was unfair, and yet had snapped at me numerous times. Glancing to the object of my ire, I noticed she was watching me with focused eyes.

"Y-yeah?" I asked, cautiously. She pushed past my leg and walked back towards the house almost angrily. It confused me how she could be so cold, but I knew it was something I had. At least that's what she said all the time.

"Kyle?" Elaina called out.

"Huh?" I asked, glancing at Eon's girlfriend. She was leaning on her boyfriend who held her tightly and had his chin on her hair.

"We were all impressed with your fight. Even in that small fight, you showed such growth. IF you fight like that tomorrow, then Mewtwo won't stand a chance," she said.

"It's what makes him so desirable…."Elaina drawled, leaning towards me in her human disguise.

"I thought it was because he was a virgin," Eon asked, sarcastically. To my surprise, her face soured at the comment, and she grew serious for once in the long time I had known her.

"You should know me better Eon. I'm very choosy about my mates. Kyle may be young and naive, but his fortitude is something I truly admire. As a Champion, you already have all this power. You don't have to work for it. Yet here we have an aspiring Pokemon Ranger. I wanna see him stand on that podium," she said, moving to my side. Nuzzling my cheek, I blushed hard as she gave me a solid lick up my cheek.

"No fair!" Lula bemoaned, trying to shove the Illusion Fox off of me. "Master! Do something!"

I Sighed heavily, and looked into her red eyes, giggling as she booped my nose with her claw tip.

"All things considered, we should probably grab breakfast. Everyone inside. After that, we have the training, and travel plans to discuss. Then tonight we'll enforce an early curfew so we can rest up for the fight. Tomorrow will be a relaxing day before we head into battle." Eon said, with a grim statement. Turning to the champion a pit formed at the bottom of my stomach. I gulped anxiously before asking the hardest question I could ask.

"Eon. What are the odds we'll get out of this unscathed?" I asked, my voice a mere whisper. The dread and terror from yesterday returned full force.

"I won't lie to you, Kyle. I don't wanna steer you into danger unknowingly. Things will be tough tomorrow and I don't know" He paused and let his words wash over me. Before I could come up with a response, he continued on.

"However, if I have the chance to end the fight prematurely, you best believe I will sacrifice myself before I let anyone of you die. It's why we have things formulated the way we do. Don't worry about the future. Kyle. Knowing what happens only makes you anxious for no reason. Trust me on that."

My eyes widened and I looked at him to notice the solemn gaze he held on me.

"Stay true to who you are. Elaina has spoken the truth. It's why so many have been drawn to you and your cause. Even Sarah couldn't deny there was this spark about you that made her hopeful of the future. She's begged me to try and convince Diantha to let you join the Rangers. I've turned her down a few times, but I can see that maybe I'm wrong this time." He briefly paused and flashed a winning smile.

" Don't worry, Kyle. Trust me. Whatever happens, was meant to. Your Mother, Sister, and Lula will all support you until the end. So will your friends, including the three of us."

"Count on it," Elaina said sweetly.

"He's right," Sarah corroborated.

Glancing to the three of them, then down to Lula, I felt the fear die down.

"O-okay," I said shakily exhaling.

"Good. Let's all go grab breakfast," he said, smiling. "Lucia whipped up her famous fruit stew and whipped egg casserole. I'm sure it'll be amazing!" Eon said, interlacing his hands behind his head and heading back inside.

'Master?"

Turning to Lula I noticed that she was positively beaming radiance.

"I don't think you have anything to worry about. No matter what happens, I'll stand by your side. I promise!" she said, clutching my hand. Kissing her snout tenderly, we all walked inside to grab food. Inside, I noticed my little sister was talking animatedly with Pene about something. Despite being up way earlier than she was used to her, unkempt hair was the only sign of exhaustion.

"What's going on here? Please tell me you aren't annoying Pene again, Em," I teased, kissing her cheek. She pushed me, only to let a large yawn loose a moment later.

"Kyle. Come onnnn. I'm- I'm just telling her about the time, Lula accidentally ate a piece of a soap bar. She couldn't stop-"

"Master Emily!" my friend bemoaned, placing a paw over her face. "I-I was only a Popplio."

I shook my head remembering the memory in vivid color.

"You couldn't stop hiccupping soap bubbles for three days straight," I said, ruffling my Primarina's hair, much to her dismay.

"Master," she cried softly, in a small voice.

"It's fine, Lula. I'm so fu-...I'm so tired, that I barely heard a word they said," Pene said, trying to wipe the sleep from her eyes.

"Not a morning person?" Arren said as he walked past us towards the kitchen.

"Shut it, dick wad. Oh. I didn't mean to swear. Shit. I mean….Ughhh." Placing both hands over her mouth, I leaned over to my sister and whispered in her ear.

"Maybe she should eat a bar of soap for that dirty mouth."

She giggled at the silly joke before hugging me tightly.

"Good Morning Son," a voice spoke up from the stairs. Looking up I noticed that she was moving down at a slow snail's pace to greet me along with Delilah. The two had been inseparable since I had brought them home and it made me glad.

I mean...we do get along well. We think so much alike it's not really that funny.

Waving back, I glanced back towards the kitchen. I could smell a heavenly conflagration of bacon, egg, and cinnamon reaching my nose from my current position, outside of it. I considered going to eat but decided a shower and a moment to myself would be best.

"I'll catch up with you guys in a minute," I said, bolting up the stairs two at a time. Entering the guest room, I peeled the sweaty clothes off of myself one at a time. I grabbed another set of clothes for the day from the closet before leisurely walking towards the bathroom. A feminine chuckle over my shoulder caught my attention. Turning around, I came face to face with Rose. She lay on the mattress, unabashedly staring at my body. Affronted, I tried to throw up some form of defense.

"R-ROSE!" I screamed, tripping backward and banging my head on the wall. I groaned in pain, as I lay sitting on the ground.

"Easy now. Sorry to give you such a scare. I probably should have said something before you removed your pants," she said, focusing on one of her large talons. She licked it slowly, cleaning the appendage. My face felt like it was the color of tomato as I stared at the Dark-type who ignored me.

"Nonetheless, it seems my dear sister was right. You are definitely larger than most," she taunted, glancing at me sideways. I blushed harder and jumped up. Without a moment to spare, I launched myself into the bathroom. I slammed the wooden door hard, shaking its frame loudly. Rubbing the sore spot at the base of my head, I glared at the far wall. So alike. They both had not cared about my privacy and had checked out my body without approval. Sighing loudly, I tried to be nonchalant about the situation.

"Not cool, Rose!" I called out as I stepped towards the shower door.

"You aren't going to get very far without clothes."

I whirled around and realized my error too late. I had left the clothes outside in my scuffle with my friend.

"Damnit!" I swore under my breath.

"Lemme know when you are inside the stall. Once you've closed the door, I'll slip 'em inside," she stated. I could practically hear her voice dripping with amusement. Trusting her to do the right thing, I turned the knob. Hot water poured from the showerhead, and I hopped in immediately. Closing the glass door slowly, I leaned against the wall. Head down, I watched the blood pour down my face in rivulets.

"All good?"

"Yeah. Come on in," I said with a sigh. The door opened and I heard her walk in just slightly. A loud whoop notified me she had deposited the clothes onto the floor.

"Hey. Kyle...do you have a second?" she asked. "I promise to keep my eyes to myself. Not like I wanted to see any of that anyways."

I groaned internally but I could sense the urgency in her voice. Something was bothering her and as her friend, it was my duty to try and alleviate whatever stressed her.

"Not like I can go anywhere right now. Shoot. What's bothering you?" I asked. Grabbing the liquid soap from the small metal rack, I started to lather up slowly, letting the water clean and ease the pain in my body.

"According to Sarah and Eon, we should arrive in Kanto around 1 pm tomorrow. With the assault happening around 2 am, that gives us plenty of time to explore. I was wondering if you and I….I mean. If the four of us could go out shopping? I've never been to Kanto and would love to explore it a little bit with you. Maybe visit a store or two?"

Her question blindsided me as I remembered that she was a Sinnoh only Pokemon. She had never seen anything outside of a small glimpse of Unova and Sinnoh.

"Right. I don't see why that would be an issue. Pene and Arren told me over dinner last night that we should have a hangout in Kanto for like an hour. Like we used to when we were younger," I said, grabbing the shampoo and squirting a dollop into my hand. Working it into a foam in my hair, I winced as it touched the gash Rose had laid into my head.

"Thanks. One final thing. I know this is kind of sudden, but I need to get this off of my chest. I don't need you to answer but just listen. I'm not here for revenge. You know I got revenge once. You also remember that I didn't stop. What you don't know is I still can hear the mothers pleading for me to stop. I still see the faces of fathers who jumped in front of their families hoping to delay my assault. Mewtwo hasn't done anything personal enough to me to warrant wanting to kill him. My sister died on her own terms-"

"Was it her terms though?" I asked, solemnly.

"Yes. She told me everything Mewtwo did to her. The torture she endured. The raping. The brutalization Mewwo subjected to her in the short time she was in his care. She almost cracked at one point. He told her that there was no way in hell you'd even consider saving her. That you had deserted her on that beach," Rose stated in a calm voice.

My hands clenched and I placed my forehead to the cold tile as my anger peaked.

"She stayed strong because of you. She waited for the day you would show up so she could say her final goodbyes. Yes. It was on her terms," Rose finished the thought and tapped her claw giving me a moment to digest the statement before continuing on.

"As your friend...I." She stopped, and I could sense her struggling with something internally. Silence consumed the room for what seemed like an eternity before she broke it.

"As your friend, I'm here to support you. I made my promises, and now I'm making one to you. If you can trust in anything, then know I don't break my promises. Ever. I give you my word on that. So here is my promise to you, as your friend. When it's finished. When this fight is over and I have the chance, I promise Kyle, to atone for everything I've done. I owe so much to you. Despite what I owe you, I still have a strong burning hatred towards you."

"It's cause I'm a human isn't it?" I asked, stepping back from the wall and calming down. She laughed softly, and I was surprised to hear it.

"Yes...and at the same time not really. You're scared and have a lot on your plate already. Thank you for choosing me to fight by your side against Mewtwo. For trusting me. I've said all I need to say for now. After this is all done though, expect that I will have a lot more to say. And to do.," she asserted. The door opened one more time and I was left alone unable to respond to her words. Sitting in the silence, I thought hard on what she had said. She had been steadfast and had said what was on her mind.

I need to trust her. She's trusting me to do right by her and I need to be the friend I was to Katherine.

Turning the water off, I composed my mind. I tried to get a wrap on my feelings. I was scared...no. I was nervous. I wanted this whole ordeal to be behind me and over with. I was happy though. Being a ranger meant I would have to face strong opponents and perform extraordinary feats in support of the community I was assigned. Drawing inwards and digging deep, I searched for something to anchor me to the ground. I had to do this. Closing my eyes I saw Katherine one final time and promised her to see this through. No matter the cost. We wouldn't lose. Not if I could help it.

Fruit stew had sounded weird and disgusting when Eon had presented the idea earlier, but as I filled my bowl for the third time, I could see that this was something I'd have to come back for if I could. Pecha, Mago, Cheri, Oran, Sitrus, and Apicot had been chopped up and mixed together in a creamy cinnamon sauce. Each bite was amazingly sweet with a hint of spice and sourness that made you want another bite. As I shoveled another bite into my mouth, I noticed that only Delilah had not gone out to train with Eon and Sarah at this current moment. She sat on a stool watching me eat, with a sparkle in her eye that confused me.

"Hmmm?" I asked finally after I finished my bowl.

"Just thinking. You have grown up to be so strong and well behaved. It makes me wonder about my son. Your Mother is constantly praising you and Emily all the time. We go back and forth about your futures. Yours looks bright if I may be so bold. You saved me and Chris from a hard life, and I can't thank you enough for that," she responded sweetly.

"Mooom," I fake groaned, making her giggle in delight.

"We should probably head back to the group so we can train," I said, standing up slowly as the stew rotted me in place. So much food, and I felt like I would burst at any minute. Any sudden movement and I would pop like a balloon.

"After that feast, I'm not surprised you are a little sluggish," Lucia commented as she scooped my dishes up in a smooth manner.

"Wait a minute? Where have Shaun and Johnson been the past week and a half?" I asked, glancing around. After they had seen my sister and greeted us, I had not seen them around at all. It had taken a while, but their missing presence had caught up to me finally. Lucia shook her head and laughed before answering the question.

"They are currently making arrangements for us in Kanto. They aren't just butlers and cleaners. While I can keep the mansion operations running smoothly for a month, they have been doing the necessary errands to keep us well stocked. They get groceries, maintain our generators, and help run any menial tasks that Eon requires. Last Thursday, Eon sent them up to Kanto to scout out three hotels for you all to stay in. I'm sure he'll go even further into details when it's time for the briefing," she assured me, with a pat on my back. Nodding I gave her a firm hug, before walking with Delilah out into the sunny field where an exhibition match between Chris and Lula was ongoing. Despite his typing disadvantage, the Fire-type had sufficiently suppressed my water type with a barrage of Psychic attacks, and physical moves. I watched the two go back and forth, watching as Lula compensated for her physical weaknesses by throwing her weight and strength out as best she could against the nimbler opponent. Emily guided her Pokemon, as a trainer should, helping direct him as best as she could. She looked fierce despite her young age, and I was proud to see her fighting with everything she had.

"CHRIS! FLAME CHARGE THEN PSYBEAM!" she screamed. The fire type launched himself onto his stick soaring across the ground to slam into Lula who took the blow full on. As he landed, Lula turned around to Chris firing a psychic energy beam at point-blank. The attack sent her back afoot, but she had held up her arms to guard against the attack just before he landed the blow. Before he could respond, Lula blasted him with a small water gun, sending him rolling into the ground. The attack must have hurt, as when he tried to stand back up he collapsed again to his knee panting.

"That's good for now. Good job on the surprise attacks, Master Emily," Lula said, bowing to my sister. Rushing to her starter's side, she fed him a Sitrus Berry to keep him up and on his feet.

"I'm not sure that it's gonna be good enough for tomorrow," my sister commented, running her hand through his fur.

"Some of the grunts will be tougher than Chris, but Delilah and your Mother will be with you in the back lines. Who should we do next?" Sarah asked, glancing around the field.

"Can I go? I want to get warmed up for tomorrow now if it's okay with you?" Elaina asked, bouncing up and down. Rolling my eyes I sat down to watch the festivities, as Arren agreed to fight her.

"Who would you like me to bring out?" Sarah queried, placing a hand on her hip.

"Arren. He seems immensely strong," Elaina said excitedly. My eyes widened and I watched as my friend placed his phone back into his pocket. He nonchalantly made it to the field and stared down the fox.

"Oooh boy. Does she know what she's getting into?" I asked no one in particular.

"You haven't seen her fight. There's a reason that Sarah considers Elaina unbeatable," Eon said, coming up to stand next to me.

"And there's a reason I don't spar with Arren. He gets intense," I fired back, glancing at my Pokewatch.

"We'll see," Eon said, shrugging as he watched with rapt attention.

"Pokemon?" Arren asked, pulling his hoodie lower.

"Nope! Just you. Kyle has hinted that you got him through many problems. So let's see what you're made of," Elaina replied.

I watched him reach into his cargo pocket pants and pull out his signature weapons. Two coils of metal designed for him to wear like knuckles. He had fashioned them when we were much younger. Took his entire savings to get them made but he rarely lost a fight with them on. My eyes widened as he took one and placed it on the ground next to where he was standing.

"Why'd he do that?" Eon asked, glancing at me.

"If he needed two he'd use both. And if he used both, he'd probably end up killing her in two or three blows. He's holding back quite a bit by using just one," I answered, leaning forward anxiously.

"That's not a good idea on his part. He'll regret it," Eon expressed his concerns.

"Fighters ready?"

Arren gave a thumbs up before shoving his hands back into his pockets. Elaina gave a small roar and leaned forward anxiously.

"Begin," Sarah called out.

Elaina was fast. I watched as multiple after images emerged as she appeared at Arren's front. As the attack came towards his face, he pivoted slightly, the claws barely touching the cloth. His arms remained in his front hoodie pocket as he delivered a swift kick to her leg hoping to sprawl her out. The attack missed as Elaina delivered a swift back fist, he avoided with another single step, towards her backside. The two refaced each other, and I could sense that Arren actually was struggling despite his calm outwards appearance.

"Why hasn't he-"

"Just like she's sizing him up, Arren's doing the same. However, he's much better at it. Once those hands come out, it's checkmate. Or close to it." I told Eon.

Arren remained still watching as Elaina took several steps back.

"Not bad. My turn," she jeered. Closing the distance again, her claws whirled downward, and as Arren moved to avoid, he came into range of a side-swipe which almost hit, if he hadn't spun at the last possible second. This put him slightly off-balance but he regrouped almost instantly, only for my eyes to widen in shock. Elaina dissipated into the wind.

"Illusions," I whispered, glancing at Eon who was smirking.

"She's just toying with him now."

"Big mistake on her part," I noted, catching the smallest hint of wind to his left. Just as the invisible attack would strike, Arren had jumped several feet backward and dodged the would-be assault. As he landed, he rolled once and moved forward to where he had been standing. He made it, his hands still had not left his pockets. The next attack came from his right, and I watched his right-hand swing free to block the invisible strike. He grabbed at the limb or appendage, only to catch air. I watched him search the area for any other signs of her presence and could sense his apprehensiveness. Pulling both hands out of his hoodie, I recognized that he was in a pinch. They only came out if he had a strategy and with so little information I don't think he had one. The next strike caught him off guard, and floored my friend, sending him sliding to the dirt. As he rolled, he caught his balance and flipped to a standing position. And then Elaina made a mistake. She went for a hold. I could see it as his hand went up to his neck and pressed against an invisible hand. Arren spun quickly in the chokehold and delivered two swift strikes to her side, and then a brutal push kick as he faced her now. Elaina emerged from her illusion, with a pained smile on her face.

I watched Arren lean his weight sideways and pounce at Elaina who shifted into Pene. As he struck at her face, it went through the illusion, and he barely recovered in time to avoid the gut-punch she threw at his stomach. He caught himself mid-step and weaved with a simple step as Elaina stopped resorting to cheap tricks and instead decided to fight him head-on. Sparks started to rain down around them as Elaina slid around my teammate who kept track and blocked every single swipe of her claws. As the Dark-type thrust her claws towards his abdomen he caught her wrist, and rolled swiftly into a mid-air armbar, with his legs wrapped around her neck. Moving tactfully and smoothly, his ankle pressed against her carotid artery, and I couldn't help but admire the maneuver. To both his and my surprise as the Zoroark hit the ground, she managed to slide free of the choke and adjust Arren so he didn't have a solid grasp.

"Grappler huh?"

"Yeah. Holds are temporary though," he responded. I watched him lean back and deliver two swift stomps at her head, only to miss entirely, as she slipped out entirely, and delivered a spinning kick which he narrowly dodged. Both combatants rose and stared at each other intensely.

"Your friend's good. He's thinking three steps ahead, but with Elaina's experience, holds don't work well on her," Eon stated. His statement made me uneasy, as I watched Arren take a step back. Both sides already appeared slightly worn out by the sparring but neither wanted to back down. That is until Elaina threw her hand up.

"I concede," she said, shrugging.

"Why?" I asked, glancing at Eon.

"She normally doesn't go all the way. I'm guessing by her judgment bringing Eon down without tricks would be a little harder than normal. However, at this point, I don't think that's the case. She's figured out how to beat him in the next few moves," Eon responded. Jumping down the steps, I hugged Arren who responded in kind.

"I didn't have a response in a one on one against her illusions."

I nodded in agreement as he sat down, and exhaled calmly.

"I figured as much. Most people wouldn't which I think is what she counted on-"

"Kylleeeee. Let's go! I want a match against you!" said the female shouted out to me. Glancing down to my Pokewatch and limiter, my eyes widened. Showing my friend the numbers, his eyes narrowed.

"Not impossible but I wouldn't be leaving without a few scars," he gruffly responded, before pulling out his phone.

Dashing to the field, I unclasped the sword from my back.

"When you say fight do you mean illusions or actual fighting?" I asked. To my chagrin, she blew me a kiss before answering flirtily.

"Of course no illusions, sweetie. Just you and me getting intimate and physical. Unlike your friend, I think you'll be a whole lot more fun."

"How's that?"

"You actually like to move around a lot during combat which means we can touch and go as many times as I want to. And that really gets me going. I was sweating a little bit against him. Don't get me wrong. He's a strong opponent. Fighting you though will be more exciting for me. Besides I need to see what my future boyfriend is capable of," she responded, placing a hand on her hip.

"He's MINE!" Lula shouted, only to immediately stifle her own cry with her paws. She grew red and tried to hide behind Pene who laughed heartily at her reaction. I shook my head in disbelief before presenting my guard.

"Don't hold back kay?" she asked with a wink.

"Not on my life," I responded.

"Both sides ready? BEGIN!" Sarah cried out.

Having already dealt with ludicrous speeds, I met Elaina in the center of the ring. Her swipe at my head missed and I countered as we grazed past each other with a backhand strike. She flew out of reach, and we both stopped at the opposite sides we had started at before returning to each other. Kicks. Punches. Thrusts. Swipes. Parries. All happened in seconds as we practically danced from one spot to the other, her sharp blue eyes ablaze with each attack that missed, and each time I responded in kind. Explosions of dust and wind filled the air with smoke and clouds that made it harder for the crowd to see what was ongoing, yet somehow she and I still managed to keep track of the other's position. As I came to a stop, her superior speed caught me off guard as she delivered a punch which doubled me over and then a kick which took the ground from out of my feet and sent me flying out of the smoke. Mid-air, I recovered using the balls of my feet to come to a sliding stop. My eyes narrowed, as she launched herself free of the smoke and into the open, delivering a sweep at my feet. Performing an aerial over her foot, I blocked the incoming uppercut and returned the favor with a sidekick. Jumping back into the smoke, I avoided another strike and searched for her. Her next attack arrived at my side, and I avoided it. Pushing off, we clashed several more times in the course of a few seconds before she flattened me with a punch from my right which threw me out of the smoke and made me ragdoll for a second. Sitting up from my cushion in the grass, I coughed twice and rubbed my cheek as she arrived to help me up.

"My hero," I said, shaking myself to try and get my bearings.

"Oh come on now. You didn't think I'd hold back?" she replied cheekily.

"I'm glad you didn't. You win. Not bad. I had fun," I said, trying to catch my breath from the excessive romp. Moving to my sword, I scooped it up and carried it off the training field. As we made our way to the stands, I watched Pene and her Ninetales head up to face off against Eon's Dragonite.

"I'd say Mewtwo has a lot to be worried about. I know you are using a restriction band right now. What's it set at?" she asked, leaning against me.

"55," I said, showing her the numbers, to which she chuckled.

"Not bad. Mmmm. I can't wait to see how strong you end up getting, hubby."

Her maw pressed against my cheek and she licked me once, before rushing past Lula who glared angrily at her.

"Not fair Master. You promised first dibs on me!" she cried out, smacking my leg with her paw.

"Come on now. I'm not dating her. We're just friends I guess?" I said sheepishly, running a hand behind my head.

"Kyle. Take this more seriously," Rose stated, huffing at my nonchalant attitude. I sat down next to my friend and rubbed her pink fur tenderly.

"I am. Believe it or not, I was giving all I had out there. She's much faster right now, but if I fight all out now, I could injure myself and then things would be worse for the actual fight." I watched Pene struggle with her Ninetails against the massively stronger Dragonite. Before the match could even begin to get serious, Eon spoke up capturing the attention of everyone.

"ALRIGHT! That's enough for now. Let's head inside to go over the plans for tomorrow one more time. "

Seated in the living room, the group of us stared at a whiteboard. On it was the known Celadon City and a giant building that housed the Gym Leader Giovanni. Snuggling into Lula and petting Bry and Rose with my free hands, I focused on Eon to the extent of all else.

"Due to the large forest surrounding the area, we'll have plenty of cover infiltrating the known Team Rocket base. From what Dragonite and I scouted of the area, we found proof that this is where Mewtwo has decided to stage the next phase of his plan. Of that, I also noticed about thirty to forty decently leveled trainers on guard duty. I assume that most of them are defectors as Giovanni is against Mewtwo at this current time. However, Lusamine has decided to assist Mewtwo in this endeavor. I don't know why she would. When we did meet she expressed a vivid interest in preserving all life. Not only that but I doubt he could offer anything she'd really want," Eon spoke. His volume was low but intense and I remained attentive to his words.

"That being said, we need to focus on first securing the wish stone, and then subduing Mewtwo. With those two tasks accomplished, humanity survives. Arren already knew and formulated a plan, on the second task which I agree with. But Mewtwo is only one piece of the puzzle. If one of his squad gets the wish stone, they could make the wish in his stead and we still lose. Which is why I have one more tactic up my sleeve. Elaina. You will be our goal girl on this. I need you to infiltrate as a grunt and take the stone by force if need be. We'll provide you the cover by using explosives to draw Mewtwo and the rest away from the stone. Do you think you can handle it?" Eon asked.

Glancing to her I noticed she appeared positively bored despite the weight with which Eon posed the question to her.

"Of course," she said waving her paw. Her cerulean eyes met mine and she winked before yawning loudly. Facing Eon again, I noticed his gaze was on me.

"As I've heard from your team this morning, you and Rose will be accompanying me to face off against Mewtwo, correct?" he asked, tapping to the side of the building.

"You can count on us," Rose interrupted not giving me a chance to speak. Sighing, I gave him a thumbs up.

"Since I and Dragonite will be occupied, it will be up to everyone else here to run CC and keep anyone who would harm Kyle and myself away from the main battle. With them mostly being trainers and not fighters, all humans should be relatively weak. If you take out the trainers, there should be enough Chaos that we can deal with their Pokemon with minimal loss on our side. However, there is one final thing that throws a huge wrench into this fight. From Kyle's first encounter I noticed that both Reshiram and Zekrom were being controlled by the Psychic-type. Now with that draining his power, it gives us a fighting chance to knock him out, however with this much force, Rayquaza and Lula will be our best bets at keeping those two occupied. Now Arren and Pene have agreed on where our Pokemon would best be needed, and I agree wholeheartedly with them on how the teams were formed."

For the next hour, we discussed everything from equipment, to tactics when dealing with firearms and healing. One of the biggest things was that we would all be departing in different groups. Emily and my mother would travel to Vermillion City. My destination was Saffron City, with Pene and Arren. Eon and Sarah would travel together to the Pokemon Center to prepare for our arrival. Our Pokemon would be stored in a PC until we were ready to fight.

"One major thing to remember is Mewtwo has his followers. So that being said, keep on your toes. There's no proof that he hasn't shown our appearances to the local grunts there with a bounty for our heads on a plate. Stay aware, stay anonymous, and don't draw attention to yourself. If you have to fight, be swift, and be decisive. Don't give them the chance to regroup and notify their leader. It'll make our ambush that much smoother," Eon stated. "I'll provide us comms for the actual fight, and we'll rendezvous in the alley behind the Item shop before making our way to the gym." With that final tidbit of information, the brief was adjourned.

Lucia summoned us to the large wooden table for a meal fit for kings and queens. As I took my usual place next to Rose and Lula, my mind wandered. Glancing to Delilah I noticed that she was watching me with a strange look on her face. Passing it off as simply concern, I leaned in and took a huge bite of juicy tender Bouffalant. As I swallowed, enjoying the seasoning, I noticed that Rose had served little food on her plate. She seemed distracted by something and I took the time to concern myself with it as her friend.

"Not hungry?"

She seemed shocked and looked up from her small meal to smile at me.

"Oh. Sorry. Just nervous is all. Appetite isn't really there."

"We'll be in Kanto early tomorrow. Is there anything particular you wanted to do with me in town?"

Her eyes widened and I could sense I had caught her entirely off guard.

"I'm not a complete idiot. Bry and Lula already asked for something to do with me, and it would be selfish of me to not attend to your needs. Bry wants to go berry picking, Lula wants me to groom her mane. What'd you have in mind?"

I could hear the gears grinding in her mind as she knocked options off of her list of things.

"I know this may sound weird but a good meal and nap would be greatly appreciated. I don't have the right to ask, but I am," she said softly.

Unable to help myself, I started to laugh heartily, tears streaming down my eyes.

"K-kyle?"

"What's so funny?" she demanded, a growl leaving her voice. Her claws dug into my leg. I tried hard to contain my joy as I rubbed the small of her back.

"Your sister loved food. And despite my best efforts, she and Lula were always sneaking into my bed for cuddles. You two really are sisters," I said removing my hand and taking another bite of food, which made me groan in appreciation. Her angry glare faded into a playful smirk and she sat back down.

"And if we were to share the same fate, Kyle?" she asked. Her question hit me hard, and although I was starving my hunger faded to nothing.

"Let's go outside. I'd rather not discuss this here," I whispered, standing up. Lucia appeared alarmed, but I waved her off and headed towards the porch. I closed the door behind me and admired the bright blue skies and white fluffy clouds. Rose sat down on her haunches and yawned loudly.

"Rose." I paused as I composed my thoughts to say what I truly knew and felt to be true. "I've done some soul searching for the past few hours. As I considered everything that's happened the past two weeks, and how it culminated in the fight coming up, I came to a startling realization."

"What's that?"

"I'm ready to die."

"KYLE! That's not-" she cried out, in anguish.

"Your sister meant the world to me. Watching her fade in my hands, killed...took a piece of me with it. I can't get over it no matter how sound the logic is. No matter what people say, she will always be missed and I do miss her. If I were to die, I'd be reunited with her, and I'm okay with that. Does that mean I'm going to roll over and die Rose? No. However, you will NOT share her fate. I'll do whatever it takes to protect everyone. But I can't lose you three. You've really grown on me," I said, placing a hand in my pocket. "Don't worry. I have your back. Always will."

She nodded at my words before responding with a serious tone.

"I have yours as wells. Let's head back for now, and eat." Shaking her fur out she stared into my eyes and I smiled broadly. I was truly happy to have met her. As I started to head back inside, I noticed she stayed behind for a minute before dashing to keep up.

Returning to the warmth and conversation, I lost myself in relaxation. My weapon needed sharpening but I'd do that before we all went to bed in an hour. After that, it was a 4 am wake up time, with a 4:30 am departure. If Shaun and Johnson's scouting had proved fruitful which Eon assured me, we would all have accommodations the moment we landed at our destination.

8 HOURS LATER

I stared at the white ceiling of the guest room, uncomfortable and awake. I had slept for the first six hours with a few interruptions in my cycle. However, the past two hours I had been unable to rest. My mind was constantly shifting through topics one after another in rapid concession. Glancing to my Pokemon who all napped in their beds. I felt an immeasurable amount of pride and happiness knowing that I was going to fight alongside them. From Rose the stubborn to Lula my partner. Bry the smug. They all had their quirks, and I appreciated them for it. If this fight was going to be as difficult as I expected it to be I knew I'd be forever changed afterward. How much I was willing to sacrifice? Anything. Everything. My mother and sister had to live. I knew they would do anything to save me. It made me uncomfortable that they were that dedicated. However, it came to the emotions we all shared. Sitting up I glanced at the clock. 3:57 am. Three minutes before the alarm would wake me up and it would be time for me to get ready. Looking to the side of my bed at the sword I carried, I thought hard. Could I kill if the need came to it? Taking another's life seemed so wrong. On the same token, killing, in this case, would be pro-life. If Mewtwo succeeded we would all be up shit creek without a paddle as Penelope would put it. Turning off the alarm, I tenderly woke each with a small nudge and kiss to the forehead. My friends woke up slowly, stretching out and getting ready. The final stretch was here and now it was time to put all our worries behind us.

Lucia had prepared us to go meals for each of us. As I approached the female grass type, I noticed she appeared overly exhausted. There were several large containers all sitting on the marble counter. Pene, Arren, Eon, Olivia, and my Sister were all waiting for me as I jogged down to greet them with hugs.

"I'm sorry. Don't worry about me, Master Kyle. I just wanted to make sure that I prepared each of you a dish you would most enjoy. I take great pride in my cooking and expertise. I only wish I could be of more service on the battlefield," she said, leaning on my shoulder for support. Inhaling the scent of her flower, I blushed as it invigorated me giving me strength and waking me up.

"

Stay safe. I promise that if I make it out of here, I'll definitely come back."

A loud groan and argument from upstairs drew our attention.

"FOR THE LAST TIME YOU FUCKING LAZY FOX! GET UP!"

"Ughhhhh. Fiv...five more minutes" came the response. Glancing to Eon, I watched him facepalm in dismay.

"They've been together for years and she still hasn't learned. Sarah's gonna kill her this time I swear," Eon said to me. We all laughed in concert, as said female dragged the Dark-type by her hair down each of the steps.

"Sarah! Sarah! I said I was sorry! Come on! Please...just… I need like six more...maybe ten more minutes? OUCH!" she groaned, each step bouncing her as the female trainer ignored her Mon's pleas.

With finality, Sarah dropped her heavy bag onto the ground and sighed loudly.

"Sorry for making you all wait. This one here doesn't know the meaning of alarm," she growled. The fox shifted into her human form and stood up rubbing her face tiredly.

"I do. I set six of them," Elaina exclaimed before stretching and yawning loudly.

"AND PRESSED THE SNOOZE BUTTON ON ALL OF THEM! A MINUTE APART. ELAINA. I'm going to...I'm going to…"

"Empty promises, Sarah. Last time you threatened to strangle me, and we all know how that turned out. With me begging for more, and you calling out for Eon as you came on my leg."

"ELAINA!" Sarah screeched, punching the living daylights out of her mon and shaking her, while we all watched on in shock.

"Did she just say-?" I asked, turning to Rose who shook her head.

"Sarah. You might wanna stop. I think you are going to kill her," Eon said, as his girlfriend delivered another stunning blow to her Pokemon's head.

"STUPID! NOT KNOWING HOW TO KEEP YOUR MOUTH SHUT! IT WAS ONE TIME! YOU FILTHY! DEGENERATE! SLUTTY! PIECE OF SHIT! YOU"

Walking over to my sister, I placed both hands over here ears. I threw a sympathetic look at my mother who moved to intervene, pushing herself between the two.

"While I do enjoy a good laugh, right now, we have other matters to attend to. Namely, leaving for Kanto," my mother said, petting Elaina who gave a fake whimper, before sticking her tongue out at her trainer.

"I swear. After this is done, I'm leaving you at a Pokemon Breeder for the next year. Maybe by the time I get back, you'll have gotten this all out of your system." Sarah shouted, grabbing something from behind her back.

"Elaina. Return!" she growled, snapping the sphere open. Said pokemon vanished in a flash of light, unable to resist the pull of the device.

Glancing to my team, I sighed. I wouldn't see them for the next five hours as we traveled. However, with Pene and Arren with me, I would be completely occupied with good conversation and company until we arrived.

"Lula. Rose. Bryan. I'll see you guys when we land. Return!" I ordered, pulling out their respective devices and sucking them in one by one. Each vanished with a short respectful bow in a flash of red light. We all gathered into the kitchen and grabbed the individually labeled lunches on the counter. I noticed that each box had a few containers hanging off the edge which I assumed was for our teams. Looking down at the blade I carried, I decided to attach it to my backpack.

"Ready?" Arren asked, patting my shoulder.

"Yeah."

"Come on already! We are wasting fucking time. Arren. Move your ass, and drag his along with it."

"You spent an hour getting dressed," Arren countered, shaking his head.

"Shut it! Let's go!"

The three of us headed towards the front door, but I stopped. Running to my Mother and Sister I hugged them tightly. Squeezing them, I took comfort in knowing they were going to follow me.

"Easy son. It's only for five hours."

"Stay safe! Please?" I begged, ruffling my sister's hair.

"Mommm. Tell him to stop!"

"Kyle. Stop teasing your sister," she said sternly.

"I can't help that she's so adorable," I replied, kissing her forehead and sighing.

"Go on. We'll be right behind you. Promise."

Running outside, I noticed that Eon was waiting for me next to my friends. I stopped in front of him, as he looked me up and down.

"Keep the bracelet on. I'd set it a few levels lower than you are right now. Say maybe level 40 for now. Nonetheless, keep your wits about you. Rayquaza will drop you off just shy of land. I'm sure you can find that Charizard who helped you out. I've already spoken to her. Brittany, I believe her name is? "

"Yeah."

"She and a tow other fliers will take you three to your city. Keep a low profile. Have fun. Rendevouz at the site, at 11 pm. What you do after that is up to you," Eon said, shaking my hand. I leaned in and hugged him softly before turning to the large Dragon who currently hovered with Arren and Pene holding on tight.

"Travel safe Kyle. See ya soon," he told me as I dashed to his Pokemon.

"Will do."

Jumping up, I settled into position behind Arren. I tried my best to secure myself, however with her slippery scales, it made things a lot more dangerous.

"Don't worry. I'll catch you if you fall," she said almost on cue. Before I could even reconsider the ground departed from underneath us and we were skywards bound. Having flown numerous times, I was not ready for the blistering speeds which whipped past our heads threatening to plummet us to the tumultuous ocean below. As we soared above the ocean, Leaned forward, and remained as calm as I could in my current situation. Closing my eyes, a voice reached out to me yanking me from my current predicament. Time slowed to a crawl. Before I could react, I was brought out of my body and deep under the ocean. As I stared into the abyss two large eyes stared into my own. Although the water roared loudly around me, I alone was spared it's wet and crushing embrace by an invisible force.

KYLE BREDESON. You...are an anomaly.

Crimson eyes bore straight through me seeing into my heart and mind.

Many trainers seek us out. Many humans desire to force us to serve them. Yet in your mind, I find the opposite. Most intriguing.

The feminine tones were off hinted by the power and majesty which was conveyed through the sound that echoed through every fiber of my existence.

SPEAK!

"Wh...who are you?"

Of little consequence. Why are you seeking to subjugate Mewtwo?

"To save my family…"

You would take those you care for to assured destruction?

The question hit my guilt button and I remained quiet before speaking.

"Not willingly. I hate that I can't make them stay away. That if things go sideways I will be incapable of saving them."

The silence was his answer to my statement. A force so unnatural pulled me closer until I could feel the warmth on my face.

Your future is brighter than I would expect but not without pain. Return in two years. If you survive the coming storms.

"KYLE! KYLE!"

The screaming returned me from what I thought was only a dream to reality. Looking around dazed, I glanced back down to the ocean and felt something calling me towards its depths. Drawing myself inward, I noticed that Arren was worried as he stared into my eyes.

"Wh-what?" I asked hesitantly. I even sounded different.

"You were out of it. Rayquaza felt something was wrong with you. Your grip was entirely slack, yet you remained in place. He told us he sensed another ancient presence here. "

Something Ancient? What did it want with me? Was it for a sinister purpose?

My mind started to wander rapidly, only to notice the worrisome look on my face. I considered not opening up about it, but I decided better to tell the truth to them.

"Something spoke to me," I said in a loud voice to overcome the pressure which stole my words from me.

"What did it want?" Rayquaza screamed, making me jump in my seat.

"I don't know! It told me to return in two years!" I retorted, as loud as I could.

Pene shrugged facing forward, as Arren's face turned thoughtful at my words. Rayquaza responded immediately.

"If...if that was another legendary, I tell you now. Do NOT ignore its words. I will speak with Eon about this, but I feel for now this remains a secret among us. "

Nodding, I noticed that the ground was approaching us rapidly. Bracing myself for the worst, I caught myself as Rayquaza rolled mid-flight dropping us a foot onto the ground. Reading my watch, I was able to discern that we were only a mile off from the Nuvema Town Pokemon Center. Cries of praise caught us all off guard as dozens of trainers watched our ride fly off into the distance. Glancing to Pene, I noticed she shrugged off the comments and made her way towards the Pokemon Center. Arren and I rushed to catch up.

"I swear. Fucking people act as if they've never seen a legendary before. I can't believe how big a deal it is."

"You know they haven't," Arren responded, brushing past an elderly man without a second thought.

"Yeah. Right. TV advertises everything to our homes, and you think they've never seen-"

"He's got a point Pene. You know Rayquaza's from a different region," I said, watching her blush and fume as I tried to inject logic into the conversation.

"You two are the worst. I swear-"

"On a more serious note, Kyle...I can tell you are worried," Arren said. His blue eyes shimmered and I knew he was reading both of us like a book. He knew our moods and when something was on our mind before we even said it.

"Yeah. I guess you could say that," I said, sighing. I ran a hand through my hair, and shifted my weight, as we grew closer to the giant orange building.

"Out with it bud."

"Jeesh. Always with the drama. I'm surprised, I'm the female in this group. You like PMS more than me," she said sticking her tongue out of me.

"Cunt!" I retorted, making her giggle as she pinched my cheek.

"OH WOW! Did your balls drop or what?"

"Language," Arren tried only to get elbowed by Pene.

"So are you gonna leave us in the dark or what?" she said, flipping a strand of her BLACK hair over her shoulder.

Stopping midstep, I looked at the cobblestone path and deliberated the most proper way to phrase my conundrum.

"We aren't getting any younger," Arren said, much to my ire.

"Grrr. Fine. I just don't feel good about roping you into this," I said looking between the two of them. To my shock, Pene started laughing and Arren shook his head in disbelief.

"You gotta be shitting me. That's what you are worried about? I thought it was something serious like Olivia was pregnant," Pene said, wiping fake tears out of her eyes.

"Hey! Come on now!" I responded angrily, before noticing that Arren's normally hidden face was now entirely exposed to the outside world.

"Kyle. We are here cause we want to be."

"You dumbass. Arren and I were already discussing this when you called. At first, we were a little scared shitless by the idea of fighting a Mewtwo. But he brought up a good point. You don't have anyone else to call on. You got us, and you get to fucking deal with it until the end. If we go down, man...what a way to go down. Killed by a Mewtwo. Besides, it's not like we got dick else to do," Pene said shrugging.

"But-"

"No butts. I relish the challenge. Not like anyone's going to beat my high score anyway."

A woman passing by Pene tried to warn her about her language only for her sharp tongue to respond without thought.

"Sit on a stick slut."

"Pene!"

"What ARREN?" she challenged sticking her face in his. I stared at my two friends incredulously. Even after only a year of being away from each other, they hadn't changed in the slightest. We had kept in contact with a monthly meet and greet via Pokewatch, but other than that hadn't had the chance to spend time like this. Before Pene could retract out of his reach, he kissed her cheek and started to chuckle.

"You asshat. Ewww. Damnit! You know I hate people touching me! Fuck…"

"Hey. It shuts you up for a few minutes, usually," he replied, wiping his mouth. "Besides it wasn't good for me either."

"Fuck you, Arren."

"Bite me Pene."

The lightheartedness made me giggle uncontrollably all the way to the front of the Pokemon Center. While difficult times were ahead, I was more than happy to have good company. Before I even made it inside, I was pulled into a bone-crushing hug from behind.

"I missed you, Kyle! It's good to see you! And friends. Here I thought you were a loner," a familiar voice exclaimed. Turning around, my smile grew into a beaming grin as I hugged the Charizard back.

"Brittany. How are you?"

"Doing well. I'm surprised you remember my name. Most guys remember numbers. So…a little birdie by the name of Eon says you need a lift to Kanto. Paid handsomely specifically for me and my two wingmen to carry you five hours there. Mind telling me what's going on? If you are wrapped up with something with the Champion then it's really important."

I glanced at my friends who shrugged and waved me on.

"I'll try to fill you in on the way there. We got five hours to talk about this. Granted it covers some serious topics. Like Genocide."

5 HOURS LATER.

At 9 am we landed in Kanto. Tingly pain from the long flight ran up my legs as I leaned against Brittany. Her tongue lolled out of her mouth, as we stood in the landing area. The journey had been strenuous on her and I felt guilty for dragging her into my mess. As I had explained to her, she had been unhappy with the threat on the horizon.

"All humanity. In the blink of an eye…"

"Yeah," I whispered, as we stood staring into the bright blue sky.

"So..that means-"

Before I could ask what she meant, she grabbed me with her claws and lifted me until we were eye to eye. I looked to notice that her eyes were misting up as we faced each other.

"This would be our last meeting. If you die in battle, then you won't come back to see me. Maybe I should stay behind. I can't fight as I wasn't really raised for combat but...you'll need a trip to Unova and I wanna make sure you get back safe. If you survive...Jeesh."

I sympathized with her, and couldn't help but press my forehead to the hard side of her orange cheek.

"As much as I would love to see you afterward, I am pretty sure this is a one-way trip. Thanks for everything, Brittany. Without you, Katherine wouldn't have been saved. I wouldn't have been able to fulfill her final wish. You've done so much for me. I wish there was something I could give you to remember me by…" I said, scratching her scales idly. As I started to pull away, her claw caught my hand.

"I'm not a pervert so a kiss is off the table. But...there is one thing I could carry with me wherever I go. Would you please give me a Pokeball? It'll have your scent so if you don't survive I can remember you by that one item."

Her request was simple and I couldn't really object to the request. Reaching into my backpack I fumbled around until I found my spare 5 pokeballs I kept on hand. My eyes widened as I pulled the case free. There was one that stood out among the standard red and white Pokeballs. When my mother had bought the case for me, it had come with a premier ball since there was ten. Removing the item, I delicately rubbed it all over my shirt, catching some of my sweat onto it. Buffing it in the salty liquid, I dried it on my pants before delivering the small item into her sharp claws. She admired the device for a minute before leaning in and inhaling. I watched her crinkle her nose slightly before smiling.

"It's really strong right now, but I'll treasure this. Kyle. Best wishes. If humanity survives the next week, I know you overcame him. I only hope not at the cost of your life."

"Me too. I'd love to ride you one more time, after all of this," I said, watching as she chuckled.

"Pervert," Pene said, interrupting our conversation. Glancing to Arren, I noticed he had ridden his Pidgeot all the way here. Pene had opted for a Braviary who was currently starting an argument with Arren's mon. Shaking my head, I waved goodbye to Brittany as I followed my friend to Arren, across the dirt field.

"You gotta be careful with what comes out of your mouth, stud," she chastised me as I followed closely behind.

"Says the girl whose mouth is more toxic than a Muk?" I responded, laughing as she rolled her eyes in response.

"Says the guy who is a Womanizer," she replied much to my chagrin.

"I hate you so much, sometimes," I said clicking my tongue in response.

"You and me both," Arren said, catching our attention. Walking up to Pidgeot, I couldn't help but admire the impeccable feathers it had.

"Kyle."

"It's been too long," I greeted, rubbing his neck tenderly, and scratching carefully. "How'd you manage to fly to Kanto no issue? Brittany almost died from exertion, yet you. No issues."

He chuckled.

"That overgrown Lizard. She's cute but Arren and I enjoy flying. We spend literal days going around Johto just exploring the wilderness. Granted he can't stand being away from technology for too long," he replied glancing at his trainer. As if on cue, Arren pulled out his phone and started tapping away at most likely another game. We both quietly laughed at the sight before the Pidgeot bowed.

"Return," Arren said, sucking his Pokemon into the capture device.

"So. Where to fearless leader? I'm fucking starved and could go for a good bite," Pene spoke, running another hand through her hair.

I thought for a minute before Arren interrupted me.

"While you two were busy with your own heads, I found three suitable restaurants. One about ten miles walking distance south of us or two to the north. Your pick, Kyle." he said shrugging.

"Hmmm."

"Distance for the two north?" Pene asked, placing a hand on her chin.

"2.1 is the closest."

"Normally I'd tell us to play it safe. However, with you around, I doubt that will be truly necessary. We look like just average trainers," I said, stretching my hands above my head.

"South it is."

"Fuck! I hate walking," Pene whined, before sighing loudly. " Then again its cause I didn't have any good company without you guys."

We made our way south, taking care to avoid major roads and any up and coming trainers who might want to add a notch to their experience belt.

"Just cause I was talking to a friend, doesn't mean I didn't have time to do some research," I said, noticing Pene was giving me a stink eye. "What?"

"I was fifteen feet to your left and I could practically see you drooling for her the entire time. I might just go gay looking at you trying to attract a mate," Pene teased.

"Hey! If you must know Lula wants to go ste-" I stopped mid-sentence, glancing around. My mind had slipped as only a couple regions like Kalos were open to Pokephilia. Kanto was the strictest with mere mentioning of the relationships between humans and Mon ending you up in asylums or prison for weeks at a time. Luckily the forest was deserted minus us as we parkoured over rocks and around bushes.

"About time," Arren said, munching into a moist green apple. He had snagged three from a nearby tree, and now as we made our way closer to our destination, we were just munching and chatting.

"What's that supposed to mean?" I demanded angrily, knowing they were only teasing me.

"Master this. Master that. Anything for Master. I'm surprised you didn't see it earlier. That Popplio was attached to your hip and probably your dick if you let it," Pene said, snarkily.

I shook my head and chuckled at her joke, unable to help myself.

"Jeesh. I sometimes wonder how your foul mouth doesn't rub off on me."

"Cause she's insufferable. And you turning into her would double it," Arren responded to my question.

"HEY! That's fucking uncalled for! Prick!" Pene shouted, before shoving him gently.

"Get a room you two," I said, the three of us laughing lightheartedly. Just being around these two was enough to ease my worries. We continued on in silence for a little bit as our minds wandered over our own personal dilemmas.

"Pene. What's up?"

Glancing to Arren and then to said girl, I noticed she appeared sad. How he had sensed that while he had been focused on the left side was something that never ceased to amaze. I remained quiet but attentive as she came out of her trance and acknowledged the question.

"So I've got a bad feeling about something. And it's not related specifically to Mewtwo."

"We're all ears," Arren responded, chucking the finished core down into the grass.

"So if you think about how Kyle met and interacted with Mewtwo, it was entirely strange. Especially for that situation to get set up the way it was. Not to mention that Eon was there. Normally, I'd just brush that off as a coincidence. Kyle was at the wrong place at the wrong time. Yet it seems as though...it was-"

"Destiny?" Arren offered.

"Exactly." she snapped her fingers to accent her point.

"I know what you mean. But why would that matter?" I asked, glancing at Arren.

"Psychic types foresee the future. The stronger the psychic, the more they know. While I don't entirely understand it myself, I do know that there are a few that manipulate events to their advantage. So I have a feeling you are worried that perhaps this might be part of a bigger scheme. Am I right?"

"Fuck. You're good," Pene replied, a shocked look on her face.

"I mean. I kind of figured as much too," I told them, as we got to the outskirts of the city. "If everything is preordained and we are meant to die, then it makes me wonder if us even fighting is worth it. The way I see it though, choices still affect the future. It wouldn't surprise me that if we decided to go North, it would affect the outcome even if it is only slightly."

"True."

"Besides. Just knowing the future isn't enough. Individuals have their own beliefs and personalities. So to manipulate that would be like trying to manipulate a 20 sided dice after it's left your hand," Pene pointed out.

Glancing around I was shocked to see that despite it being extremely early the entire city appeared to be awake and moving. Pulling my backpack straps tighter, the three of us jogged across the street real quick. As I inhaled the air, I was overwhelmed by a smoky and meaty scent coming from the building in front of us.

"What-"

"Bbq. This place serves 24/7 because of such a massive demand. And their breakfast was rated at 4.9. One outlier for being vegan."

The three of us jogged up the stairs as we followed the scent through two glass doors. to our shock, the entire other side of the building was open. Wooden floors of oak-covered the ground surrounded by small plastic A young girl no older than five greeted us as we entered. Her blonde pigtails and blue suspenders were cute, as she grabbed Pene's hand leading us to a nearby seat.

"DADDY! NEWCOMERS!" she called out.

A hulking man the size of a Machoke emerged from behind a grill and waved his hand at us.

"Welcome. Menus are in front of you. Drinks will be served by her. And your actual waiter will be my main man Blastoise. He's out back working the coals with Magmar. Give them a minute and they'll take your order!"

"I've got this one Daddy!" she called back to her father.

"Alrighty Pumpkin. Take it away then," he said, flipping something on the grill.

To my surprise most people were on the other side, taking food to go, while we had decided to come in through the front.

"What will you all be having today?" the young girl asked much to my shock. Looking to the menu I decided on Pecha berry juice. Glancing to my friends I noticed that they had also made their decisions for drinks and food. Smiling, I ordered a waffle covered in sweet barbecued pork and topped with a fried egg. As the young girl accepted our menus and returned to her father, I noticed that the plastic-covered documents never touched her hands. Instead, they hovered just out of reach.

"How is she managing that?" I whispered to Pene, who shrugged and took a sip from an ice-cold glass of water that sat in front of us. Exhaling softly, I noticed that Arren had since closed his eyes and gone inside his own head. It was a sign that he was trying to figure out something, and it made me curious as to exactly what that was. Knowing him he'd share it in due time. Taking a sip of the crisp liquid I glanced at the clock and let my mind slip away from its current predicament. Finally, after what seemed only a few minutes in my head, a snap caught my attention. Turning to face our waitress as she approached with the food, my eyes widened at the sight. Despite being only five, she appeared fully capable of balancing three different plates on a platter almost as long as her. On her opposite hand, she carried a small drink carrier with such effortless efficiency. As the steaming platters were placed down one after another, I watched her bow and smile.

"Thank you for coming to dine with us. Also, Mommy couldn't help but overhear your conversation as we left."

"She's a psychic type right?" Arren spoke up, making both Pene and myself chuckle. He was fast and had figured out the conundrum before we could speak.

"Yup! A Hypno to be exact. I was adopted by Daddy. Do not worry about us getting in trouble. We are doing just fine. She wants to convey her happiness that the three of you are eating here today. Ummm..also, to say to K-K-K"

"Kyle?" I queried, looking between my friends.

"Mommy's very attuned to future events. She told me to tell you, that it's going to be okay. She promises. After your fight, do come to see us again please."

I nodded dumbfoundedly, as I felt my heart rate increase at the statement. What did she see? What did the little girl see?

"Don't worry about those things. For now, eat up and ENJOY!" the daughter said, placing her hand on mine. It distracted me enough from her words, that I focused in on my meal. The meat that was piled high on a crispy plate-sized waffle. On top, a Duo duo egg had been grilled over easy and topped with melty cheese which penetrated the top layer.

"That looks fantastic," Pene said, turning my attention to their plates. On Arren's was one doduo egg over medium, with smoked bacon, and fresh biscuits. A berry compote dripped off of the biscuits onto the plate. Pene on the other hand had spent no time tearing into a barbecue chicken sandwich. Sauce dripped heavily onto a napkin she had placed onto her lap. Shaking my head I dove headfirst into my plate. Smoky spicy and sweet all culminated in an out of this world experience. Despite my desire to catch up with my friends, we all focused on eating before it could grow cold. After several minutes of only an interruption to drink, chew and swallow, or inhale, we all finished our plates.

"Ooof! I'm stuffed," Pene said, stretching her arms overhead.

"Same here," Arren replied, popping a piece of gum into his mouth.

"Doesn't that defeat the purpose of the meal?" I asked, only for him to shrug in response. "thanks again for picking breakfast. What a way to start the day. So. What are gonna do while we wait?"

"Hmmm."

"We might as well go see if they have anything up-" Pene started only to be interrupted by our waitress again.

"Couldn't help but overhear the question. There's a carnival in town. Both Mommy and I go when we can catch a break to play some of the games and watch the shows. I believe the Jenny Squad is in town, so you can go see them live," she said sweetly. As she placed the bill on the wooden flat top, I couldn't help but notice it had already been paid.

"ARREN!" I exclaimed angrily, noticing his cheeky smile.

"You snooze you lose," he said.

"AWWWW! Not fair. I thought we agreed not to do that to each other," Pene whined, mindful of the company not to swear, Deciding not to make more of a scene, we stood up in concert and headed for the door. Waving one more time to our hosts, I felt a slight pressure on my head again. Recognizing the signature as the one from earlier, I granted it access, where it deposited a single thought and then withdrew.

RETURN HERE PLEASE. I HAVE SOMETHING THAT WILL HELP YOU. I PROMISE.

Keeping it in mind, and remembering the streets, I decided to make the trip back. If I survived the coming fight, that was. Rose's fears about the future still held huge sway over my expectations but I refused to just lay down and die.

"Kyle."

"Huh?" I asked glancing at Arren.

"Serious face. Let's go have some fun. Leave those thoughts alone."

"Right!"

---

TWO HOURS LATER

---

We had arrived around 11:15 and despite being early in the day, the carnival was in full swing. Pene and Arren had dragged me directly into the large tent so we could watch the first showing of the Jenny Squad. To my surprise it was a squad of three police officers with their Arcanine performing fire feats I watched in awe as the acrobatics and displays were beyond supernatural. Of the ones we watched, I couldn't help but be in awe as one of the officers Jennys seemingly was burned to a crisp while balancing on one foot on the nose of her Arcanine. As the flames died down, she appeared from behind red curtains seemingly unharmed. We applauded the performance and as we departed, the three of us spoke animatedly about the way things were done. Approaching a nearby carnival game, I noticed Arren's attention went to the high score and recognized the coming signs of a challenge.

"Oh boy. Here we go again," I notified Pene who looked to our friend before facepalming.

"Do you only think about games fuckboy?" Pene demanded, drawing his attention away from the new problem. Shaking my head, I laughed as we approached the stand.

"Five dollars says he gets it in the second try," she bet, pulling a bill free of her wallet. Looking over the specifics of the game it seemed simple enough. The goal was to fire water into the Wailord's mouth and hit targets above the fake mon's blowhole using the water spout. You aimed and fired with a plastic buizel which fired a water gun. Depending on the angle and how you hit the back of the mouth would determine how high it went. The goal is to hit and pop the balloon way above its head. The angles and design made multiple attempts required to get the biggest payoff. I smiled and watched Arren as he calculated numerous variables in real-time. I could practically hear his gears grinding.

"Five dollars says he gets it on the fourth try. This one's a little more tricky than the usual ones. It's either doable or not. He'll let us know by two and by three-figure out if there is another way to make it work," I replied, pulling a bill from my own wallet.

He stepped up to the line and lightly tapped the trigger, glancing at the attendant who appeared nonchalant. Handing the man a ten-dollar bill, he squared up against the target.

"Has anyone beaten this game yet, sir?" Arren asked, appearing to just toy with the Buizel.

My eyes flicked to the elderly man and realized the chances of this being a scam were slim to none. He did not appear to be one to scam, and as a high pressured shot fired from the water gun, I considered the odds that I might just lose this bet.

"Not often but it does happen. In fact, I had a young girl figure it out in five squeezes nearly a week ago."

Pene and I took seats up alongside him, as he took aim for the first shot. I watched him steady his arm before he fired. A loud hiss echoed as the shot went into the hollow opening. We all watched it fire out the blowhole in a wild spray that only hit the three-foot mark. Not nearly accurate or high enough to reach the balloon. I considered what he had done, and what he had learned from the experience. I waited patiently as he naturally adjusted. This time he fired again, with barely enough pressure to depress the trigger but aimed his shot a little higher. The water arched into its mouth and fired out the blowhole, narrowly missing the red balloon by an inch or less. My eyes narrowed, as both he and I figured it out at the precise same time. The next trigger pull came almost immediately following the last squeeze, and with satisfaction, the water went up the ramp and popped the balloon with certainty. I smirked, as he set the toy gun down and let out a satisfied sigh. It was about the challenge and once he had completed it, it was onto the next game. I smiled, as Pene swore under her breath and handed me the money.

"You had one job Arren! Fucking hit the target…"

"The game requires skill, and a little bit of luck," I replied, noticing his smug look faded.

"Much like the fight coming. While I would love to sit here and spend all day with you guys, you have an obligation, Kyle," Arren stated. His words hit me hard as I remembered that I had neglected my team since we had landed.

"Don't break a hip over it old lady," Pene said, playfully bumping me with her hip as she walked away.

"Love you too Pene. You got a point. I'll catch up with you guys later. Are you sure you don't want to walk away from this? I'd feel bad if you lost one of Pokemon or yourself because of me…"

"Don't think twice about it. My team has been itching for some action and an actual fight. If they die swinging they die happy. You can ask them tonight. I think I'll go explore the town," Arren spoke glancing up into the sky before walking away briskly. Alone I contemplated how to play the day out. Having just eaten it meant that the most logical order would be Lula, Bryan, and then Rose. Why I put her last, I didn't hesitate to think. I felt guilty that I wouldn't be able to give my sister my time. She was several cities over and was hanging out with Mom. Glancing up, I noticed that the sky had darkened considerably since we had arrived. Pushing my thoughts down, I reached into my backpack and pulled all three spheres free of their case before releasing my team one at a time. They emerged from the red lights and immediately began stretching.

"Hey," I said, smiling as they all looked expectantly at me.

"Glad to be out Master!" Lula said, tackling me down and hugging me tightly.

"I wonder what kind of berries Kanto has," Bry spoke to Rose who shrugged a paw.

"I Just needed to get some fresh air. Although I'm surprised Lula isn't jealllloussss that you gave the pretty Charizard a gift," the Dark-type said, smirking as Lula huffed in anger.

"It's fine with me! Kyle...I mean Master will eventually be my boyfriend when this is all done," she said proudly, only to cry out as I stepped on her tail 'accidentally'.

"Master! Ow!"

"Watch your tongue. The last thing we need is to get thrown in jail, Lula," I hissed, watching as she realized her mistake. Bowing her head, I rubbed her head.

"So. As much as berry picking and dinner sound great, I have a task which is going to take a lot longer than that."

Reaching into my black bag again, I procured three necklaces. They were simply corded with a small black USB at the end. On the top was a red Pokeball with an exclamation engraved into it. Scanning my credit into my Pokewatch and inserting the chip into each, I divided out a good portion of my available funds. Placing the necklaces around their necks, I noticed that the newcomers appeared confused.

"What's this for?" Rose asked.

"Poke cards. It has my information on it should you be injured, and GPS in case I need to find you. Also, it allows you to wander freely, and purchase things. I have to take care of Lula's hair, and this gives you both time to go explore the city at your leisure. Just promise me to keep a low profile, and press the alarm button on the chip if anything should go wrong. Kay?"

My team nodded, firmly.

"Last thing before you go. It's almost twelve. So each of you gets three hours. At your time, set off an alarm, and I'll head your way. Try to stay around the general area. See ya guys around."

Bry and Rose took off after I finished without so much as a seconds hesitation. Tracking them as long as I could, I hoped they wouldn't press the alarm sooner than their established time. If they did, it meant there was trouble and I'd need to intervene. Glancing to my starter, nostalgia-filled my chest.

"Just us as it used to be huh?"

"I miss those days when I was a Popplio. You used to carry me everywhere on your head."

Her words stirred in my chest and I felt a happiness I hadn't felt in a long time return.

"You're way too big and heavy now for me to even try that."

"Arrreeee you sure Master?" she asked, teasingly.

"Come on. We gotta get going. My watch says there should be a self-serve center approximately a mile from here. If we hurry, I might even be able to treat you to some ice cream afterward," I said, watching her cheer in happiness. She apparated a bubble and floated gently beside me as we made our way towards the hair care center at a leisurely pace.

"Master?"

"Hmmm?"

"I was wondering if things were to go bad between us, if...maybe you'd abandon me. Or you'd give me up for adoption." Her voice trailed off, as I considered her words.

"Do you remember your promise to me when we first became a team? When I became your trainer?"

I looked at her as she thought for a minute before responding.

"Ummm. If I remember correctly, you said 'I promise to be your friend until the end. Nothing will ever change that'."

"Good. So just because we don't vibe together it doesn't mean I'd just throw you away. You're still precious to me. I actually was tempted to name you that when we first met," I said, noticing her face crinkled at the thought.

"Ewww. Too sappy," she said. I snickered and patted her shoulder.

"Don't worry. First, let's get through the next twenty-four hours."

"On that note though...I'm here with you until the end. If Mewtwo kills you, he better do the same to me. I refuse to leave you alone. In this life or the next we're a team," she said solemnly. Looking at my Water-type, I felt my heart constrict unwillingly. I didn't want her to die for me. Her words took me to my dark place. Katherine would have said the exact same thing, had she been standing here right now. An uncomfortable silence filled the air, only to end as we arrived at our destination. We pushed our way in and made our way to the right. Dozens of Pokemon were being cared for by hairdressers, as a young woman with a green bun, and brown eyes greeted us.

"Welcome to the Tangela Saloon. Can I be of- OMG! A Primarina! So rare! May I?" she screamed, dashing over to Lula's side. I smirked as my starter naturally craved attention. The woman moved from one place to the next before moving back to the desk and pulling up a tablet.

"Hmm. I could do this...and of course naturally to protect against salt, and this color…."

"Ummm! Master usually does my hair," Lula piped up much to the young girl's disappointment.

"Are you sure? I can easily get it done in thirty minutes...with a little love and care!" she begged, and I felt the urge to give in but knew how special it was that I take care of it.

"Master does a great job!" Lula complained, making the girl sad.

"Okay okay. Well then, Stall #15 will open available for you. If you need anything just let me know," she said, bowing politely.

"Thank you, "I replied, as we made our way towards the numbered door. As we entered I couldn't help but be in awe. Our own room, with a large basin of water. Salt and Freshwater were a flick of a switch away. The wall was lined by a cherrywood shelf carrying dozens of ointments, shampoos, and conditioners, along with various hair treatment oils. A hairdryer and several other devices hung on the opposite end of the room, along with various brushes, and tools to groom any Pokemon you could imagine.

"It's much nicer than the ones back home," Lula whispered. Her eye seemingly sparkled with excitement, and I smiled happily before reaching down gently and grabbing her hairband. As I started to pull it off, my hand brushed skin. My mind wandered to a dirty place and I felt blood fill my cheeks as I tried to reorient my thoughts. She was my starter and this was supposed to be an innocent task.

"Master?"

"Hmmm?" I asked, trying not to croak from embarrassment.

"That felt nice. Would you mind rubbing there again?" she asked. It was an innocent question and I felt the urge to resist her fade. She was asking and I promised to go to the ends of the earth for her. Would a relationship after this really be that hard? I was starting to think less and less so. I knew my mother would approve too. Reaching down to just above her hips and massaged her soft fur tenderly. She cooed out a melodic tune, before I moved to her shoulders, and rubbed there.

"Thank you. Ahhhh that feels sooooooo good," she whispered. Our eyes met and I could sense her desire for me to kiss her pulling me forward. Her eyes closed halfway and I leaned in slightly before pulling away at the last second.

"I'm sorry. We can't do this. Not right now...After the fight maybe. But...if I lose you...If he uses you against me, I couldn't ever forgive myself," I whispered. Tears filled my eyes as the despair of losing her seemingly reached me.

"Easy...Master. I understand. Let's get started on my hair. Okay?" she asked, leaning into the tub and bringing her head over the lip. Her cerulean mane now lay in a sink where I could focus and work without any distractions. Smiling as my memories of the first time I had brushed her emerged full-fledged.

OW!

Stop moving!

OWWWW! Master!

If this knot doesn't want to come loose…

Did...did you just rip out some of my mane?

I'm sorry!

I chuckled making my mon glance up in confusion.

"The first time was the most painful thing we've ever done together," I said, only for her face to pucker in sorrow.

"Wh-"

"No. It's not. The most painful thing was watching Katherine pass away," she replied. Her words struck a chord, and I sighed, turning on the saltwater first on hot. The salt helped ease the stubborn strands apart giving me room to work on smoothing everything out.

"You're right. I miss her more and more. Her sister is a pain sometimes, but I get it. Being around humans and others she doesn't like must be hard on her," I stated, moving deftly through the kinks with very little effort. The hardest part was making her hair soft and luxurious. Usually, with more time, I could get it to literally shine like a rainbow. But for now, I'd have to be content in getting it silky smooth and knot-free. A slight gloss would be the perfect touch.

"I was really hard on her earlier. We've been arguing out of sight, about you. She doesn't think I'm good enough to be your lover or anything of the sort."

Her words made me stop mid-action and sigh loudly.

"Who does she think she is? It's not like Kat's here to fill that role anymore. Much less her. Ha. That's the joke of the century," I laughed, making my Fairy type blush hard. "No. If it were to be anyone, it would be you. I wasn't lying when I gave you first dibs."

Turning the water off, I worked tirelessly, trimming the bad strands, and lining up the bottom to form her iconic diamond shape. Attentive to my work, we remained quiet, before I requested her to perform for me. Her humming soon turned into a full song that echoed off the walls and cascaded in the air. It calmed. It soothed. It pulled at my heartstrings and soon we were both smiling and crying as we remembered all the good times we had shared. Time passed by slowly as we just enjoyed each other's company.

"If I get to choose my first region where would you like to go?" I asked, as I applied a Sitrus Berry shampoo and lathered her hair thoroughly.

"Johto has tons of water areas which would make our trips to and throughout the region fun and quick. Besides I've always wanted to visit the forests there."

Nodding I tapped my foot as I hummed to the tune she had sung earlier.

"That would be nice," I remarked, squeezing the excess soap out before switching to freshwater and rinsing her mane thoroughly.

"While it's nice to think about the future, I worry about the present, Master. Kyle. What will you do if the fight-"

"It's simple. I'll buy everyone as much time as I can. If I go down it's not the end-"

"I CAN'T! KYLE! That's not fair!"

Her anger and scream stunned me quietly, and I accidentally fell off my stool, bruising my elbow on the floor. Pain shot up my arm, and I groaned before turning on my Mon who had rose from her laying position to glare daggers at me.

"How could you ask me to leave you behind? How could you tell me you don't need me there?"

"Lula- You have to live."

"Not without you," she whined shaking her head. Tears poured down her maw, and I quickly pulled her into my arms. Her wet mane soaked my t-shirt, but I ignored it.

"It's not like that Lula. Don't cry. Please! It's just what I need to do."

"I refuse."

"Lula."

"I REFUSE!"

Her stubbornness made me draw away and hold her at arm's length.

"Losing one Pokemon was more than I could bear. Losing you too would kill me."

"And if you die, then I'll die too. So I might as well stay beside you. I fight until the end for my Master. Only you!" she stated firmly. Pressing my head to hers, I gave in. She wasn't going to abandon me no matter what.

"Fine. You win, Lula. Just this once. Now that I'm soaked in your hair juice-"

"Ewwww."

"I know right? Let's finish this up so we can go get ice cream. I saw a vendor when we first came in about a few blocks down."

Returning to our positions, I finished the final steps of washing before I got to drying. Glancing at my watch I noticed that two hours had passed. Drying would take thirty. Tapping at my Pokewatch, I moved several screens aside until I could see both of my friends on the map. Bryan was making his way towards a water fountain towards the center of this small region while Rose appeared to be departing from a store much further north. Judging the distance, I was curious as to what she had found to be worth the trip. Shaking away those concerns, I moved on and finished up the cleaning process.

Finally, as I set the last of her hair, and laid next to her on the bench waiting for her hair to dry, I gave myself a chance to acknowledge how tired I was. Drifting off, I fell asleep only to wake up at Lula's nudging.

"M-master?"

"Hmmm?" I asked, grunting as my stiff neck shifted.

"It's done. We got about ten minutes before you have to be at the Safari."

Shooting up as adrenaline hit me full force, I looked to notice that she had tied things up and was just sitting on a bubble.

"Dangit. I'm sorry girl. I should have been awake so we could grab-"

"It's no biggie. I'll grab it. See you back at the hotel tonight right?"

"Of course. Stay safe!" I replied, kissing her nose before dashing towards the door. I was running late and hoped the newest addition wouldn't hold it against me. Lula had my payment methods attached to the waterproof necklace, so she could pay for MY work.

One minute and fifty-seven seconds. I had arrived using a nearby Boufflant as a taxi, but I was still late. Running would have been faster however it would have drawn attention and worn me down even further than I already was. As I approached the massive sliding doors, I heard a small shout of my name. Glancing up the sugar glider landed on my face, covering me entirely before giving me a small zap.

"You're late, Kyle."

"Hi Bry," I replied muffled by his belly.

"Speak up!"

"Swwwy!"

"What?"

Reaching up, I grabbed him by the scruff of his neck and pulled him off. Moving him until we were eye to eye, I bowed my head respectfully.

"I am sorry I was late."

"Hehehehe. It's no biggie. I actually just finished talking with the hottest Raichu I've ever seen. She's never seen my kind around so she was curious as to what I was about."

"Please tell me you weren't out trying to get laid?" I queried tilting my head.

"It's not about that! Besides, I wouldn't kiss and tell. No. We were just discussing things about our regions. She also gave me the details on where the rarest and juiciest berries are in the safari. Good to get info before you go picking," he said, turning his head away smugly.

"You are something else you know that?"

"My mother used to say the same thing. Shall we?" he asked, breaking free of my hold and landing on my shoulder.

"Let's," I replied enthusiastically.

We entered the air-cooled room and was instantly in shock. Hundreds of Trainers and others moved to and fro. A literal wall of green baskets lined the right side. Several waist-high devices with touch screen controls provide access control through the back sliding doors. Wasting not another moment, I grabbed a wooden basket, and brushed past a Kangaskhan and her trainer, as I moved towards the first stand.

"See anything interesting up there?" I asked as Bryan moved up to my soaking wet hair.

"Not really. Mostly a bunch of people. Granted there appears to be a champion who set up shop and is signing stuff. Red! Wow...That must be why there are so many people here," he stated fan struck with the prospect of getting a signature. Placing my watch to the screen I paid the expensive fee of 5000 poke dollars to enter the safari. Despite the steep price, I knew that there were two guarantees in that field. Rare Pokemon and Rarer berries.

"Wanna-"

"Nonono. As much as it would be cool to get one, it will take too long. Besides, I wanna make the most of the time we have together," he said.

"Are you sure?"

"Positive. Let's go get some berries. I'm starved!"

My stomach rumbled quietly, and I agreed that perhaps a small snack before the large dinner would be beneficial. Striking out together we were staring at the massive area we were allowed to explore. Invisible barriers were erected and barely visible about five miles out. Thousands of different Pokemon moved around in concert, wanting to be captured or happy to live out their lives in sanctuary.

"They have things good in here, according to the Raichu. Most of the trainers who have the money to come here rarely use the balls to catch Pokemon. Many just ask the Mon if they want to come with and they are more than happy to leave. Shinies show up here more often than not," he told me as we started trekking to the east side of the forest. Indeed dozens of mon peaked their head out of branches or called out to me, trying to get my attention.

"Why do they want to leave then?" I asked, confused by their forward behavior.

"The same reason I approached you. It gets lonely. You want somewhere to belong and a team to be a part of," he said. His tiny voice was thick with emotion and it hurt to realize how many people he had turned down to be with me.

"Surely, someone must have resonated with your Aura? Someone must have shown up and thought to take you with them.?"

"A few people Eon brought me were strong. Smart. Talented. However, they were all haughty and more importantly...they thought I was too weak for them," he replied, the sadness in his voice starting to get to me. Looking up I noticed his ears were down, and his shoulders hunched in defeat.

"So when you spoke about my Aura?"

"I spoke the truth. Yours is pure. The others I could have resonated with sure, but none of them cared to bond. They appeared more about what I could offer to their team. You on the other hand were willing to accept Rose. Despite how she treated you, you always held her in high regard. You tortured yourself to make yourself worthy of her approval. And when you mega evolved, you still humbled yourself before her."

His words caught me entirely off guard. He had seen everything from afar and understood it? So he had stalked me longer than either of us had considered, or Rose had concealed her knowledge of him the entire time. Shoving that tidbit down, I returned to the topic with gusto. As we approached a tree, I asked him quietly.

"You saw all of what I did wrong and you still wanted to join."

He jumped up and vanished into the foliage. He never responded, and I became concerned I had frightened him off.

"She was right! These all look so juicy and are- KYLE! HELP!"

Before I could move to join him, he jumped back to my shoulder. A massive Vespiquen and several Combee emerged from the brush. Sparking in my ear, I readied myself incase a fight intended to break out between us.

"Easy there child. We aren't gonna hurt you two. I'm just here to defend my home, just as you seek to protect your friend," the delicate voice spoke to me. Staring at the bug/flying type, I bowed my head in submission and took a step back, only for her to hold up an appendage.

"Don't go. I'm guessing you came here for the berries?" she asked, hovering down until we were face to face.

"Just that and we'll be on our way. We didn't come to start trouble. If you could part with two, I'd be forever in your debt," I said, noticing that Bryan had since calmed down and was listening with rapt attention.

"Just two? Most of the trainers here have been rather...abusive towards us. I lost my first wave of babies to a man with a Torkoal who burned us down just to get to our berries. I hope your words aren't laced with poisonous honey," the Queen stated, waving pointing two berries.

"Bryan. Just two!" I stated, watching as my teammate jumped up and quickly sliced two beautiful red berries off their limbs. I caught them deftly with the basket and smiled happily at Vespiquen.

"Thank you!"

"Thank you for being so respectful. I wish more humans were like you. Nowadays it seems as though our kinds will never get along."

"I hope it doesn't come down to that. Stay safe please," I said, as we both parted ways, with us heading North.

"And that's why I'm glad I'm with you," Bryan said. "I chose you because your Aura is calm. In that situation, you would have rather angered me, then her. You wanted to do the right thing, and it's admirable."

I blushed hard at the compliment.

"Let's get some more berries. Thanks, Bry."

"Not a problem. Besides I think with your morals everything will turn out alright," he said. Patting his head, I leaned down and grabbed a Razz Berry the side of an orange out of the basket. Sniffing the fruit, it appeared extremely well developed. Placing my lips to the edge I took a leap of faith and bit in. Sweet and sour the juice burst into my face. Grinning with delight, I took my time to nibble at the fruit, as Bryan and I took a seat in the grass.

"It's beautiful out today," he remarked, staring at the soft clouds which rolled overhead. I couldn't help but agree. We remained seated, watching other Mon as they observed us. Finally, he broke the silence.

"Kyle. Every one of us talked about you yesterday night. Lula. Rose. Myself. We were posing questions about tonight. Today. Our time together. Lula made it clear she wanted to talk to you about your relationship. While Rose didn't approve, I understand the reasoning behind it."

A soft breeze rolled by as we relaxed. He paused for a minute to enjoy it before continuing.

"Rose will talk to you about what's on her mind. However, since it's my time, would you like to know what's on my mind?"

Facing him, I gave him a cheerful grin and nodded. Giving him my undivided attention. If he was going to be serious now, then I had to show him that I cared.

"Lula was worried that you might die. It hurts to think that, but to be honest, I don't think that will be the case," he whispered. His large eyes looked to the floor.

"I'm afraid you are going to abandon us."

Wh-what?

"Why would you even think that?" I asked, trying to remain as neutral as possible.

"My Mother and Father warned me that when a Pokemon no longer suits a trainer they release them into the wild. That is exactly what happened to my mother. She was replaced by a Timburr due to her weaknesses. Now, this fight is going to be hard, but I am willing to give it my all. But what happens, if I get seriously injured? Your aura speaks to me and normally that would be just enough. However, if I'm not strong enough to continue fighting-" he trailed off, and I placed a hand on his head. Rubbing tenderly, I held his words close to my mind and considered the best way to approach his comment.

"We're friends right?" I asked, responding to his invisible question with one of mine. He nodded firmly.

"Let's be real for a second kay? If I become a Ranger, I will be exploring tons of regions. While getting a team to deal with all situations would be very nice, I think the most important thing is to take that journey with those I care about. If you are injured to the point I have to care for you...I'd have to leave you -"

Before he could respond, I squeezed him and pulled him to my chest.

"Abandoning you is not a choice. I would treat you medically to the best of my abilities even if I have to give up my dreams. You wanted to be here. Until that changes your home is with me," I said, listening to the sugar glider sniff in my shirt. A large crack echoed as he zapped me affectionately. I released him, tingling from the static which had built up.

"Thank you, Kyle."

"Now then. More berries?" I asked getting up and wiping the dirt off my shorts. He climbed up to my shoulder. and sat there before he jumped to a branch at eye level.

"Sure. But can we practice Aura SPhere a few more times?" he asked, holding his diminutive paws out.

"Of course. Let's have some goes at it."

For approximately thirty minutes we focused intensely on creating spheres each one swirling with power and emotion. Exhausted as we reached the half-hour, I looked down at the clock. We had another hour before I had to meet up with Rose. Sweat poured down my brow, but I deliberately avoided wiping it. Swiping left on the screen, I was greeted with Lula and Rose's icons. The former had moved to a nearby lake to relax, while the former was currently investigating a nearby alleyway. Her dot hadn't moved in the past fifteen minutes much to my surprise. Curiosity started to creep in, but I clicked off the map. There would be time for that later on.

"To the berries," I demanded in a false authoritative voice.

"YES! YAYYYY!"

Time slipped away from me again. Climbing and speaking with dozens of mon about berries, had taken most of the afternoon and into the early evening. However, our basket had grown heavy numerous times over as we ate and joked about. It was great to just be near the Emolga was a bubbling source of positivity much like Lula. We joked and talked about everything from his parents to his childhood and his knowledge of Aura. While limited, he was well versed in the general things to observe when looking at it along with the three levels. Bryan advised me to generally avoid individuals who carried themselves with a Purple Aura. I asked him the last time he had met an individual and notified me the answer had been never. His mother had warned him of it and had almost lost her life to a young man who had overwhelmed her trainer and her. She had tried to protect him but the Charizard had been way too strong to even consider tangling with. As our "play date" came to an end, I noticed that Rose had activated her beacon, just a little bit earlier than our intended time. Concern rocketed through my core, but Bryan understood.

"Go take care of it. I'm gonna go see if I can find that Raichu again."

Shaking my head at his words, I took off like a rocket.

Glancing to my Pokewatch, I knew that time was of the essence. My stomach was still full of berries but I had promised Rose to meet her for dinner at exactly Seven pm. The sun was setting and it was almost night time. Her dot remained in place, but it didn't help that I was about nine minutes away. If I didn't get a move on, I'd be too late. Taking the back alleyways, I full out sprinted towards the location on my map, checking occasionally to make sure I wasn't being followed or seen. Lucky for me, most people avoided the seedy and foreboding darkness as I moved with great intent through it's winding paths. Finally, I turned a corner at 6:53 pm to find her sitting a hundred feet from me. I wiped the sweat off my brow, and I made my way cautiously towards her. She didn't appear to notice me, despite the street lights which illuminated me as I approached. She appeared perturbed by something out of sight and around the corner from her. 10 feet from her, I caught the sound of a male and female talking nastily to her.

"Look. You don't want any trouble and we get it. But you don't have a trainer-"

"I'll only tell you one more time. Leave me alone. Once he gets here, you are going to-," my friend hissed. The tone rang off the windows nearby and sent shivers down my spine. She was dead serious with an emphasis on the dead.

"Listen here, bitch. We're Team Rocket. Ain't nobody gonna fight our kind except-"

As I arrived to stand next to her, recognition filled both grunt's eyes. Mine narrowed as they reached behind them.

"You're Kyle Bredeson! Boss told us you'd show up here tonight. Even bribed us with 1 million credits if we delivered you to him dead. That Legendary is gonna be super proud when we bag you."

"What?" Rose exclaimed, but I was not exactly surprised. If Mewtwo could foresee things than there was no limit to what he knew at this point. And of course, the grunts would be aware of me. It's why Eon had told us to keep a low profile. We were targets. However the fact that they had targeted my Pokemon set off a chain reaction in my body. I bristled with anger as I approached the two.

"You okay milady? Are these creeps bothering you?" I asked, kneeling to kiss Rose's paws. She glared at me with murderous intent.

"I'm fine knave."

I chuckled at her coldness before standing back up and facing the two grunts.

"I'm pretty sure she said she doesn't have time for you. But I do. I'd be more than happy to send you broken back into the hole you slithered out of."

Before I could make a move, both grunts were overcome with purple haze before collapsing unconscious. My hand moved swiftly to my sword, and Rose stood up from her position. We had been relaxed before. Now we sensed a much larger threat. One that made our skins crawl from power. Searching around for the threat, felt Rose lean against my leg.

"Easy you two." A feminine voice called from the shadows. Stepping into view, we were greeted by a large imposing woman. She stood on large black heels and was dressed immaculately in white stockings that stopped short of a white dress that stopped mid-thigh. The clothes were tightly fitting revealing the hourglass shape she had maintained. Long platinum blonde hair hung in a sheet down to almost her knees around her teal blue eyes. Placing my hand on my blade I clicked the lock warily, recognizing exactly who stood in front of us.

"Lusamine-" I whispered. She smiled a devilish grin as she flipped a strand of hair behind her ear.

"Who is that?"

"Not now Rose. What are you doing here?" I asked. Before I could speak another word, my mind grew muddied for a second only to fade away as a large Mismagius phased through my head and to the left side of her master.

"Kyle!" Rose called out, supporting me as I fell to a knee.

"I'm fine."

"The others are asleep?" the woman asked her Pokemon who curtsied in response before she let out a heavy sigh. "Good. Onto business. I don't have much time before these idiots wake up. I have some words for Eon. I need you to let him know that I accept his proposal but only if he grants us sanctuary. I'm not with that power-hungry psychic type."

"Why should we trust your words?" I asked, glaring daggers at her. She seemed unperturbed by my hostility, looking down at one of her nails.

"Simply put, I could take you both down right now. While Mismagius here isn't suited to deal with her, I have plenty of nasty tools at my disposal. However he intends to destroy my lovely Ultra Beasts and that cannot be allowed," she replied menacingly.

"I've heard enough," Rose growled.

"Rose. You don't want to tangle with her," I whispered, placing a hand out.

"Why?"

"There are rumors about this evil witch. She's cruel, heartless, and driven. Her kids came out about some of the experiments she subjected them to. I shudder to think what she'd do to us."

To my shock, she giggled, placing a hand in front of her mouth.

"True. I've done some bad things to Lillie and Gladion. While I regret what I did to them, you on the other hand…" She shrugged nonchalantly. "Nonetheless, Mewtwo's become a threat to me. He intends to dispose of us once his goal is achieved and I would rather live on. I've done much to keep my true goals a secret even from his power. Tell Eon if he grants us immunity he'll have our aid in the coming fight. And you'll want a friend on the inside. Trust that kid," she finished, turning on her heel and waving lazily over her shoulder.

"Till then. Tata."

After a minute of silence, we sighed loudly. Glancing to Rose, I noticed her paw was clutching a paper brown bag tightly.

"What's that?" I asked, leaning down to reach for it only to be smacked away.

"Hands off," she growled.

"Good two see you too...jeesh," I cringed looking a the red lines she had drawn on my hand. I sighed a breath of relief, as we moved away from the grunts and into the city. With the night lights pressing on all around us, I focused on the Absol following me.

"What's on your mind?" I asked, noticing her brow was furrowed.

"She snuck up on us without warning. Dispatched all of the grunts without a second thought. And the murderous intent pouring off of her...it was so familiar."

Stopping in my tracks, my eyes remained focused on her to the extent of all else.

"Hmm?" she asked, looking at me.

"While I agree that she was extremely strong, it wasn't something to be worried about. You would have been safe either way," I said, flashing a smile. She shook her head before placing the bag at my feet.

"I'm sorry. Not that I put you in the situation, but how I handled you. It's good to see you. The bag is yours but it does have a condition attached to it."

Reaching down warily, I lifted the small sack and started to shake it, only for a growl to take my attention to its owner.

"S-sorry."

"No cheating."

"Gotcha. Okay. The first conditional gift I have ever received in my life so what's the conditions?"

My words put a blush in her cheeks before she listed them off.

"One. Do not open it until the fight is done. Two don't get too upset at the price. If you don't want it, I can always return it," she stated.

"Come on now. It's a gift. I don't care if you got me a polished turd. I'll keep my word and hold onto it," I said, jokingly. It had very little on her gaze and I sensed that perhaps this was something far more important that I needed to take it. As I placed my hand on the bag one more time, her claws dug into my flesh again.

"I get it. Seriously...thank you. I will abide by the rules," I said, tenderly. Her eyes met mine and she let me go. Placing the paper bag, tenderly into my backpack, I sighed loudly.

"You gave me a real scare. I thought something serious had occurred...like you had been injured or captured."

She gave a harsh laugh at my statement.

"Caught? Not me. As for the trouble before they had woken me from my nap just before you had gotten here. No, I pressed it early to get back at a certain rodent who had injured me earlier," she said, haughtily.

"Rose! That's sooo not cool," I chastised but she held up a claw and gave a wicked smile.

"The best revenge is the one you don't see coming. Anyways, I was bored. The city doesn't appeal to me, and I've done all the exploring I need to do. So. Shall we get to dinner?"

I followed her out of the alleyway and into the safety of public view.

"How long were you aware of Bryan?" I accused carefully, noticing she seemed unfazed by the question. After a moment she answered my question with deliberate wording.

"Since we landed on that island. I remained aware of him and the other Pokemon at all times," she said.

"And you didn't think to tell me-"

"You didn't need to know!" she growled. Her attitude was so unlike her the past few days. I stopped in my tracks, and stared at the Dark-type, trying to figure out what could possibly be bothering her. She halted and turned on me, noticing my gaze had turned downcast.

We remained staring as others passed by us. They faded into the background as I stared at this Absol. Her sister had been a source of joy. I wanted to get closer to her but each time I did, she pulled away.

"Kyle. I'm not perfect. You know that. Friendship is still new and hard for me."

I tried to take her words at face value, but something in me finally snapped.

"Rose. Stop lying to me. You've had friends before. Fang was your friend and you-"

"Hurt him. Over and over again! Don't you dare…" she threatened. We were now a breath apart. Her breathing was erratic and the background noise was numbed as I grew more and more focused on the current moment. The cool night breeze. The darkness. All that mattered was this singular point in time.

"Don't what? Don't stay? Don't care? What Rose?" I asked, glaring at her. "If this is about revenge, then just-"

"Kyle!"

My anger faded away as her eyes filled with water. I stopped mid-sentence and reached only for her to retreat.

"Fucking stop. Please. I- I just want to have a good night. Without the fighting."

I sighed and stood up. This situation wouldn't get better if I continually antagonized her. We stood in silence before she spoke.

"Let's get dinner. I do have a few things to get off my chest," she said, turning around. I followed her as she led me down several winding paths until we came to an elderly woman who stood by an open door. Warm light flooded the dark alleyway. The woman was standing at approximately four foot five and greeted Rose with a warm smile. She was dressed in a dark green dress with a brown shawl that covered her bony shoulders.

"Ah. You've returned with your trainer. I assume you are here for the reservation you placed?" she asked.

"Yes, ma'am," she replied. I noticing that Rose's tone had changed from anger to indifference. I kept my gaze low when the stewardess surprised me.

"Kyle is it? She spoke a great de3al about you while here. Now then...Follow me,"

Entering into the door I was hit the fragrance of warm bread and garlicky meat. There were only ten booths in the small establishment. She beckoned us to a small u shaped seat, where candles were lit for us. Two menus sat in front of us, as I stared at Rose. She hopped into the seat, and then sat down. Following suit, I gave her distance, sitting a foot away.

"Take a minute my dears. Just press the button when you are ready to eat," she said, serving us both a glass of wine. Rose took the offered drink and took a large gulp of the fluid. I accepted the glass and placed it on the table as she gave us privacy.

"Kyle. Move closer please?" she asked. Her request was said in a quiet voice and I acquiesced, moving closer but leaving a space between us.

"Ugh. Come here," she growled, scooting until she could place her head on my shoulder. Looking down I noticed she appeared content to just nuzzle and lay there. Anger, confusion, sorrow, and another emotion I couldn't place rolled around in the gut of my stomach. I looked at the menu surprise filling me up as I recognized the objects on the menu. This was a fondue shop. It listed different meats, sweets, and slices of bread to dip into the cheese sauce of our choice. We each took our time to look at the menu before Rose broke our awkward quiet.

"Kyle. Every time I get close to someone they end up getting seriously hurt. Do you blame me for keeping my distance? Do you blame me for hiding things for you?"

Her words caught me off guard, and I considered them cautiously. She had a valid point, but it didn't make it easier for me to be there. Our moments together were polarizing with me not sure of what she really thought.

"You act cold and warm at the same time. You treat me like I'm someone you care for but you could kill at any minute. I don't know the real 'you'," I said, in a small voice.

"Neither do I. I hate you so much, I'd rather run my claws through a Ferrothorn. It's frustrating,," she whispered. She knocked back some more of the alcohol hiccuping before moving a strand of fur behind her ear. My mind was shocked as I came to realize how beautiful the Absol truly was. The candlelight filled the room, and her yellow eyes seemed to dance with the fire that warmed our small area.

"Rose…"

"Everyone of us had something we needed to discuss with you. At least I thought that perhaps I could tell you what was bothering me tonight but to be honest...it doesn't matter anymore. There's a good chance we will all die. But...I still want to see this through. I'm not here for revenge. I'm not here to hurt you, Kyle. I just want...I want to see something good through to the end," she said.

Her words were heartfelt and I acknowledged them with a small smile. Pressing the button I ordered Grumpig bacon, and some bread, while Rose opted for Tauros steak and Doduo fried eggs. I smirked at her boldness and placed a hand on her shoulders massaging the pain and stress away. Closing my eyes, I imagined the aura and was surprised to find that I could just barely manifest it without Bryan's direct influence. Using the little bit I knew from our experience earlier, I utilized my emotions and energy to affect the mood and air around us with calmness. Our food arrived, and we remained in our current positions seemingly frozen in time, as I moved my hands around her back in slow circles. My concentration taxed beyond what I was capable of, the energy slipped out of my control leaving me sweating and gasping for breath.

"Where-where did you learn that?" Rose exhaled softly. I shrugged as I tried t ocompose my thoughts and energy.

"You okay, young man?"

My eyes lifted blurrily to see the old woman as she sat down at our booth. She sat at the very edge giving me the space I needed.

"Just a little worn," I said, noticing she was watching me with a shocked look.

"In all of my years, nothing has brought me so much joy. I've seen a few patrons using Aura, but never in a manner such as you used it now. You must care for her, don't you?" she asked. I nodded solemnly, noticing that Rose remained turned away from me.

"Well...she's a strong one. It doesn't surprise me. Take care of him Rose, and I'm sure he'll do the same. I'll leave you two to it. You might wanna hurry though. Food is getting cold," she said, as she vanished from view to go deal with other patrons. Looking down, my mouth watered at the slabs of meat that were drenched in a decadent cheese sauce. Warm rolls surrounded our main dish. Taking the time to cut into Rose's steak, and dip it gently, I offered her a piece which she accepted without hesitation.

"How is it?" I asked, hesitant to bother her.

"It was delicious. Would you continue to feed me? Please?" she begged, turning to face me. A simple request, which I proceeded to do without further question. As she consumed her meal bite by bite, I noticed she appeared sadder and sadder. It plagued my mind until I couldn't ignore her state any longer.

"Rose...what's wrong?"

"I don't know..." she said, hysterically. Her eyes searched mine before looking back at the food.

"This was supposed to be a nice quiet dinner, yet here I am bitter. Angry at myself."

"Why?" I questioned, offering her another cheese-laden steak bite.

"I wish I knew."

She took the fork into her mouth and swallowed the morsel quietly before sighing loudly.

"Thank you, Kyle. Remember your promise to me?" she whispered.

"I do." It wasn't hard to know exactly what she was referring to.

"Hold true to it. And I'll stay true to my word. I'm your friend," she said, averting her gaze.

The rest of our dinner went by without incident or word. We ate enjoying the silence and company before we made our way to the rendezvous hotel. The dark night was oppressive but the brightly lit streets made sure we weren't alone. I remained pressed to her side, as we walked on in silence. Finally we reached our destination after walking for ten minutes. The clock on my watch read 9:15 pm. This meant I would only get four hours of sleep at most. Not much but enough for what was coming. As I entered the lobby, we were greeted by Lula and Bry.

"Thanks for meeting me here," I said, grabbing the capture devices in order and returning each one of them reluctantly. As I started to aim at Rose I noticed she appeared angry.

"KYLE! You promised!" she growled. Her fur stood on end, and it took a minute for my mind to catch up. She wanted to be held and sleep in the same bed as me. Acquiescing to her request, I followed her to the desk and grabbed a room key. The elevator ride was quick and we arrived at the hotel door. Entering, she moved to the king-size bed spinning around several times. Laying down, she pressed herself against my chest.

"Good night Kyle," Rose said, closing her eyes. Her warmth radiated through my side. Her soft fur helped lull me towards sleep. With nothing left to do for the day, I reflected on the day's events. If things ended, the only regret I had was that my family wouldn't know how much I loved them. The stars twinkled in the bright light when a small figure emerged a few feet away. The legendary Psychic who had pranked me earlier almost two weeks ago. The silhouette of its bubblegum fur faded away blurrily.

"Sleep...You'll need your strength."

The world tilted and I tried to fight my exhaustion, only for my eyes to close with a mind of their own.

"The pain isn't meaningless. I promise you."

I awoke several hours later, to a firm hand on my shoulder. Startled I shot up, and reached for my blade, only to notice the intruders were all familiar. Rose had since been awake, as the people revealed themselves to me. My teeth ground together as my heartrate increased.

"It's time, Kyle," my mother hugged me. Tonight it ended. One way or another.