As I stretched out my body on the large mattress, I noticed that everyone was busy with preparations. Friends and family moved around excitedly despite it being 2 am. Blinking my eyes, several times, I glanced at the light pink Absol which was still curled into a ball next to me.

"Morning Kyle," Rose said, with a loud yawn. Her soft fur was pressed into my chest as she lay there contently.

"Morning," I mumbled still half asleep. Sitting up, I noticed that Eon had approached me with a small wrapped bundle of clothing.

"I had Shaun take a pair of your old clothes to Sarah's uniform tailor. He looked at it and immediately got all sorts of ideas to make it combat-ready armor. When I had asked him how long it would take he told me 3 hours. So with that being said, here you go. The weave on the inside is made of silk made by a Levanny. It should offer protection against Mewtwo. Black so that you can help hide from Mewtwo more in a dark night. Hardened joints at the shoulders and knees to keep you moving. The chest has a reinforced barrier made of a psychic infused carbon steel plate. Light, but powerful against energy blows. A simple pair of gloves to help you wield your sword better in case water or other elements try to interfere with your ability to grip it. The knee pads are made of the same thing. A clamp on the belt helps retain your sword, with a unique recall feature. It's something Sarah thought might help you with maneuvers as turning your back in the middle of combat would be dangerous. How about you go try it on?"

My eyes widened as I grabbed the parcel and thanked Eon. Weaving past my sister and mother, I rushed into the bathroom and slammed the door with finality. Peeling my dirty clothes off, I immediately jumped into the hot shower. As I stood contemplating the future in the shower, I could smell one emotion running off me in rivers. I was afraid. It was depressing and scary to realize that today might be my final day alive. However, the thought of being reunited with Katherine on the other side was something I looked forward to. This was no time to chicken out. Exhaling loudly, I lathered quickly before rinsing. As I turned off the hot water, I considered my friends. I had to do what was right by them. No matter the cost. Shifting my weight, I stepped out of the standing stall and grabbed a plush, white towel. Drying off, I looked into the mirror shocked by who I saw looking back. My normally soft skin appeared hardened. My eyes shone brilliantly and my normal spike hair hung down in a silky smooth sheet. I loved the new look and immediately, trimmed some of my bangs so I could see better. As I pulled on each piece of clothing, I recognized it for what it was. Breathable, light, and durable it was battle armor worthy of a Ranger. Granted I knew that the clothes that Eon and Sarah were wearing were a hundred times better than this. I only hoped it would provide more than enough protection for the coming fight. Glancing to my red Pokewatch one more time, I verified my levels. 75. I had reached a level unheard of for someone so young yet not without the beating of my life from Rose. Speaking of who, I considered the odds she would prove to my undoing. If we were alone, there was a very good chance she was just as likely to kill me as she was to fight with me. My heart skipped a beat. However, she had sworn she was my friend. The gift in my bag must be precious if she had refused to let me see it until after the fight. With so many racing thoughts and doubts, it was hard to find my center. My hands grasped the porcelain sink and I closed my eyes seeking the aura that flowed through me. I could barely feel it but used the blue energy within to steady myself. It was finally time for me to confront the monsters out there and become the man my Father wanted. No more running away. Opening the door, I was bum-rushed by my Sister and her Braixen who both hugged me tightly. My mother and Delilah followed up. As I looked them over I was surprised to see that my mother wore a long black dress with a single slit up the left side. Her normally straight hair was pinned up with several needles which appeared more than just decorative. My sister on the other hand was wearing cargo pants and a T-shirt with one of my old battle vests. It warmed my heart, and I held her tightly.

"I'm ready big bro! Let's do this!" she exclaimed.

"Of course. I need you to stick close to-" I started, only for my Mom to intercede.

"She knows son. Delilah and I will keep an eye on everyone and heal who we can. It's why I'm dressed like this. The medic role is crucial in combat," my mom said turning her body sideways. My eyes followed the strap across her shoulder down to a small pouch that hung on her hip. A grey satchel that she usually kept at home, now hung off her body. The grey bag had seen its share of use but now appeared to be fully stocked and ready for the main event. I had no doubt there were max potions, full heals, and even sutures for any kind of wound or injury we might experience in combat.

"What about-"

"I'm on guard duty. Don't worry about these three. I may not be as strong as Rose but I won't let anyone hurt MY family," Delilah said telepathically. Smiling at the two, I pulled myself free from them to notice Pene and Arren returning from the balcony. My eyes widened as I noticed that Pene had tears in her eyes. Striding across the beige carpet, and past Eon and Sarah, I made my way to my friends. Standing in front of the two, they took hugged me tightly.

"You guys okay?" I asked, looking directly at my female friend. To her credit, she wiped away the water before sniffling.

"I'm fine. Pre battle cry. I just...need a moment," she sniffled. My gaze turned to Arren who appeared unperturbed by the sight. It ruffled my feathers as it was so out of character for the two of them.

"What's going on?" I asked, in a quiet voice. If there was something they had to tell me, now was the last chance we would get. He stood still for a minute before, responding.

"There's something we need to talk about after all this is done. Something you need to know. Nonetheless, I don't want you to worry about it too much. Okay?" he said. His words made me smile as I knew that they were still looking out for me. If he had learned something then I knew it had to wait until we were not only alone but not as occupied mentally. There were many more important things to focus on and the upcoming fight was worth it.

"Got it. Take it easy. Your roles are easy. Worst case scenario you retreat. Mewtwo is finished today. I promise," I said, noticing that Rose appeared sad at my words.

"Wh-what?"

"Don't change who you are Kyle. It's unbecoming," she said, cryptically before hopping off the bed. Glancing to my friends Arren shrugged and Pene sighed.

"That bitch. I'll never get over her," she stated venomously.

"Careful...you'll turn into a poison type talking like that," Arren teased, making me snicker much to Pene's chagrin.

"NOT FUNNY ARREN!" she screeched, elbowing him in his side.

Shaking my head, I moved to Eon and Sarah. Elaina was most likely in her Pokeball which was a discomforting fact, but I didn't blame her Ranger.

"I think we are ready," I said.

Eon nodded and crossed his arms. He appeared to be deep in thought contemplating something before relaxing his stance.

"Alright then. Grab your sword and let's be on our way. No more time to waste, right?" he said.

"Right."

I reached into the black backpack and grabbed my sword. My fingers brushed the paper bag from Rose and made myself a promise to open it after everything finished. I swore I would. As I pulled the weapon free, my mind turned to a dark place. I would have to kill tonight. I couldn't hesitate. However, I would only do so if need be. Eon had told me to anticipate higher level Pokemon and lower level, humans, as the grunts battled like trainers rather than as Rangers or Champions. So taking out the grunts would be the priority as we moved to Mewtwo. Once the charges exploded, the entire building would be on high alert and the fight would begin. Letting out one more bated breath, I snapped my tool onto my waist and turned around. This was it. No turning back and no way out. I could only rely on myself and my friends. I only hoped it would be enough. Stepping out of the hotel room first, I glanced over my shoulder longingly. I wanted things to stay the way it was. But that wouldn't happen. Not without fighting for what I believed in.

The cool wind accented the warm night as our group stalked closer and closer towards the building. We approached from the North, following Eon as we made our way to the Gym. The large imposing building stood out among the midnight sky which was littered with an abundance of stars. A full moon provided some lighting. However, the tall oaks and redwoods which surrounded us blocked out most of the natural luminescence. Keeping my breath even, I watched as Eon took a position against the trunk of a nearby building, holding up his hand.

"Something's not right," he said, making my heartrate skyrocket. He knew something was off, and it felt wrong. Looking around I expected to see thousands of grunts surrounding us. Only silence and our presence were felt and I glanced to the Pokeballs I carried in my hand. I considered having Bryan scout above but knew that would put the mission in further jeopardy than it already was. Before I could voice my opinion, I watched Eon touch an earpiece receiving a response from Rayquaza which was flying at the space level. He had told me her vision was good enough to see a Ratatta from that height.

"All clear. Okay. Let's split up. I planted the charges earlier this morning without anyone catching me. Babe."

I watched him turn to his partner, and place an item in her hand.

"Call me if things go wrong. Get out of there, and retreat. Don't put yourself in unnecessary danger," he stated planting a kiss on his lover's lips I smirked at the public display of affection. It was sweet and made me warm up to the pair.

"Don't worry. I'm a Ranger. I have my contingencies, and this isn't our first rodeo in dangerous situations. Elaina. Let's go!"

A sphere opened up from the woman's backpack, her Pokemon emerged stretching her claws in an arch. She transformed into her human form and closed the distance between us in a few playful skips.

"Hey, cutie. Stay alive for me, kay? I promise to ride you until the morning after this is all done. Love ya!" she said, planting a juicy wet kiss on my mouth in front of everyone. Before I could stop her she vanished, following her Ranger in a blur of movement. The darkness swallowed the pair up, as I tried to wrap my head around what happened. Reaching up, I touched my own lips dazed.

"Lula's gonna be pissed," Eon stated, patting my shoulder. "Let's get a move on. We have our roles to fulfill. Get ready. I have a feeling they already know we are here."

I nodded an affirmative. Glancing to where they had departed, my mind wondered if they would be good. Then again she was a Pokemon Ranger. The chances of them losing a fight were slim to none. Stashing my emotions down in a metaphorical lock, I followed Eon towards the front of the massive complex.

Keeping my focus on the imposing building an explosion rocked the earth. Rock and debris were thrown sky high, as the wall created a hole the size of an eighteen-wheeler.

"EVERYONE GET READY!" Eon exclaimed, making me aware that the situation had turned dangerous. Tapping the three Pokeballs in quick succession, I tossed them to Arren who caught them in his free hand. He knew that if anything were to happen to me, or they were going to retreat, I wouldn't have time to protect my team. It was his job to force my unwilling friends back into their orbs giving me time to hold the line. A single lie that I didn't regret because it meant I could give everything I had and more. I knew that they wouldn't forgive my betrayal, but I had to protect them even if it killed me. Lula, Bryan, and Rose all apparated next to me as the smoke started to clear.

"I thought you set off the charges?" I said scanning the hole for enemies. The smoke covered the giant aperture making visibility nigh impossible. My nerves remained stalwart despite the confusion which had been sewn.

"I didn't," Eon responded hastily. My heart rate skyrocketed at the words. The explosion had been Pokemon made. The implications hit me full on. The Pokemon or Team Rocket was fully aware of us and had been lying in wait. It was a trap.

A massive fireball emerged through the smoke, and everyone dispersed barely avoiding the conflagration which tore through the earth. My eyes narrowed as both Reshiram and Zekrom emerged from the smoke, much to my dismay. Glancing to Eon, I noticed he appeared calm despite the sudden intrusion. The two Pokemon started to charge with profuse amounts of power. The ground shook as the duo postured to wipe us out in a singular blast. The white and black legendaries stood leagues above our group but were quickly brought to the ground by a single force. Another shockwave kicked up dust, as Rayquaza held both of their throats in her massive claws. Launching them both above and behind us, she fired a beam of pure energy radiating the color of the rainbows directly at the two massive legendaries. The attack engulfed them and exploded outward pushing us towards the entrance. My eyes remained focused on the world around me, scanning for targets when my heart nearly stopped. In the hole was Mewtwo along with about forty Team Rocket members

"EON! Welcome. I hope you don't mind me giving your girlfriend the same warm welcome as I gave you. She should be running into a group of my friends any minute now."

"BASTARD!" I swore, only to notice that Eon hadn't even drawn his weapon. I silently prayed internally that Elaina and Sarah were fine, but remained focused on the threat in front of me.

"Mewtwo. Stop. As Champion, I'm asking you to cease this violence. Whatever crimes you hold humanity responsible for, I'm more than willing to seek justice. But...this...this isn't the way. Your goals. Your ambitions will bring Arceus's wrath down on existence and you can't fight him," Eon pleaded.

"Such sentiment. Fucking human. You think I'll just follow your word because you ask nicely? Tell you what. How about you roll over and die? Then I'll still not give up?" the psychic said, with a sneer.

"You'll have to work for that," Eon replied.

"Tell me. Do the others know your little secret? Do they know that everyone won't survive this fight? That this is all for naught?" he asked, smirking directly at me.

"OHOHOHOHO! This is rich. Did you bring the boy back to face me? He may be stronger but he'll die just like Katherine did. She was a sow to be bred over and over again. All the time she cried for him to save her. I bet-"

He was cut off mid-sentence by dark energy which struck the legendary in his gut making him wince in pain. Looking down I noticed that Rose was standing on edge. Her eyes were fierce. I had restrained my reaction to his words, but she had let it be known.

"Watch your tongue. That was my sister."

He stared at my Pokemon before flicking his shoulder.

"Should I show you what real power is?" Mewtwo said, raising a paw and aiming it at my Pokemon. Her eyes widened, but I placed myself in front of her.

"You might wanna move, child."

"MEWTWO!"

My eyes flicked to Eon. I now sensed it. Massive power surged up around the Champion as he faced our opponent. He moved forward slowly intent on starting the fight.

"ENOUGH! You want a fight, you'll get one. Don't expect it to end the way you want though. I know what you think you've seen but your sight is limited."

"Very well. Let's get this over with. Minions. Kill them. Double if you bring the boy and his Absol to me alive. I wanna see the despair in their eyes as they watch each other suffer. Eon. Shall we?"

I watched as Eon, Mewtwo, and Dragonite made their way away from the swath of enemies. Turning my back would be dangerous, and yet I knew that Eon would need my hand. Looking ahead, I watched as three Rocket grunts showed up in front of me. My eyes remained focused on their movements. As the first went to draw their weapon, I was there, my left hand slamming into his throat. He doubled over, and I delivered a sidekick that sent him flying. I whirled to the next opponent, who Rose dispatched with a strong smack to the side of their head before backflipping off their body gracefully. The third managed to draw a bead on her mid-air, and my eyes widened. I wouldn't make it to her before the bullet struck her. A clap echoed in the wind as a single thunderbolt slammed into the grunt, knocking them unconscious and paralyzing them. Bry landed on my shoulder, and I smirked before he launched himself away from me and towards my Mother. Jumping backward, I watched as dozens of grunts poured out of the hole, threatening to engulf us. As I landed, I searched for my first opponent, only to be interrupted by a hand on my shoulder. Arren strode forward, with his team. An imposing Gengar, the flighty Pidgeot, and his best friend, Ampharos followed him as he waved a hand at me.

"I got this. Go."

Nodding in approval, I rushed past Pene, who met my gaze with a smirk. This was her time to shine, as her Gallade, Incineroar, and Alolan Ninetales started combining attacks into massive blasts that slammed into the waves of Pokemon and Humans. As I chased Eon and Mewtwo, I noticed that Rose kept pace beside me, her face a mask of anger and fury.

"You ready?"

"I'm with you, Kyle."

We blitzed through the forest towards the sounds of explosions before arriving at Eon and Dragonite who stood a few feet apart from the legendary. He hovered glaring daggers at the two as I approached.

My body tensed as I faced the Psychic-type. His strength was overwhelming and with my bracelet set to level 60, I was still holding some of my max strength back. Glancing to Rose, I noticed she appeared calm and fierce despite the threat which now glared us down.

"You returned? With another Absol. How delightful. I can't wait to make her suffer just like the last one. Katherine screamed like a bitch in heat when I tortured her," the Legendary taunted, landing on the ground. A small cloud of dust kicked up and I gripped my sword in anticipation of the upcoming fight.

"Mewtwo. This fight will not end the way you want it to. This time, he's not alone. And this time, you face four of us," Eon shouted, approaching from behind me. My body tensed in preparation.

"You think stopping me now, will buy you the time you need? I've already foreseen how this whole event goes down. Eon dies. You die, Kyle. Every one of you will be at my knees begging for mercy," Mewtwo stated.

"The future can change," Dragonite retorted.

"Ohohoho. My vision hasn't failed me yet. For example, I know all about your distraction tactics. You have someone else, trying to steal the stone. To your dismay, you'll find that I've already taken care of the intruder. He or she will be dead before the day is done. But enough of me. Rose. Dearie. Why do you side with these humans? I can practically taste your hatred for the human standing next to you. Kyle failed to protect your sister. He failed when it counted most. In saving the life of your only family. Humans don't deserve the protections that we grant them. They take and take and take. I for one have had enough. I was created, and given no choice by a man who took all of my choices. So I think it's only fair I take away Humanity's chance."

I looked to Rose who appeared troubled by his words. I wasn't sure whether to be afraid that she might believe him or she would betray us. Glancing to Eon, I noticed his fear as well. Sweat from our previous engagements poured down my brown and the salt from it entered my mouth. Gritting my teeth, I called her name once.

"Rose…"

Her yellow eyes found mine and I could sense that something wasn't right with her mentally. His words were reaching my friend as she backed up, trembling.

"OHH! No. You're afraid of me? Good! I'll wring your body of every single drop of pain, and then make you beg for death. And it won't come."

"ENOUGH!" I shouted, stepping in front of my Absol. Furious at his manipulation, my mind had had enough. It was time for me to fight. And I wouldn't stop until he was down for the count. Mewtwo's eyes narrowed, and I could sense that Eon and Dragonite were watching me.

"You want her, you come through me. I laid down last time. This time, you kill me or I'll get back up," I stated. The grass beneath my feet blew before Mewtwo smiled devilishly.

"With pleasure," he whispered in my ear. My eyes widened as it took my mind a moment to understand exactly what had occurred. Before he could strike, I had jumped a few feet out of reach, turning on the ball of my right foot to face him. My opponent blitzed after me, zig-zagging. As I continued to move through the grass backward in a straight line, I tracked his movements.

There!

My sword came up, and I deflected the fist which pressed forwards. His hand grabbed the blade, and pulled me off balance, as his knee drove into my hand which barely guarded my midsection in time.

This isn't good. He's too fast!

Recovering, I caught sight of Rose with her left claw glowing in a purple aura as she slashed directly at Mewtwo's eyes. It was dazzling as she appeared like the personification of rage.

"Juvenile."

My eyes widened in shock and fear as he grabbed her head. He tightened his grasp on my weapon and pulled us skywards. The ground started to slip out from underneath us when a single attack made the Psychic Mon release us. He reeled away in pain, his limbs pouring blood from a deep cut on each arm. Landing I delivered a powerful sweep, which made him cartwheel, into a massive Fire Blast delivered to him at point-blank range by Dragonite. The heat from the explosion threatened to engulf me, but Rose pulled me to safety at the last second, using her teeth on my ankle. I landed as Mewtwo broke through a tree. Splinters flew everywhere as he crashed.

"You little!"

"You wanted this. Well, we aren't going down with a fight," Eon said as he took his place beside me again.

"You can't go rushing in like that. We will make openings that you can exploit. He's already examined all of our power levels based on our exposed energy."

"I know. Rose. Are you okay?" I asked, glancing down to notice that her previous lapse had all but faded from her vision.

"I-"

"You saved my butt back there. Thanks." I said moving past her. If she wasn't mentally ready for this fight, then I'd do her and my part to kill this Psychic-type. My body was alit with energy. This was the moment of truth, and I wasn't going to hesitate. Dragonite blitzed past Mewtwo's guard when an explosion erupted around the Psychic-type. The wind pushed us back and we barely were able to remain standing from the force which was radiating off it in waves.

"You'll all turn to ash before me," Mewtwo spoke, as the light faded revealing a mega evolved Mon in its place. Psychic and Fighting. The only one here not at a disadvantage was Dragonite, but even then I knew that he was worried about other moves. Such as Ice Punch.

"Is that all Mewtwo? Really, I'm kind of disappointed," Eon said. Turning to him, I noticed that he had taken his bracelet off. Unlike Mewtwo, the air around us stilled and I turned to see that the champion was literally glowing a brilliant blue. The energy transferred between him and his Dragon which inhaled deeply.

"Oh? What is this?" Mewtwo asked as he stared.

"Us humans aren't as frail as you think. Nor do we just roll over and die when we are told. Kyle here is proof of that. So come take our lives. If you can! Dragonite! DRACO METEOR!"

My eyes widened as literal asteroids materialized inches from the Psychic Fighting type. The heat and power from the attack flattened everything around it as he tried to deflect the attack.

Keeping my eyes opened and focused on the front, I noticed that Mewtwo was holding all of them at bay barely. The rocks were pushing him back bit by bit. Glancing to Dragonite, I noticed he was panting from the effort of the massive move but otherwise appeared unharmed. Eon had vanished, and my eyes widened as the grass turned to ash and a massive explosion ripped through the ground. Eon arrived in front of me, huffing and smiling as he landed with his weapon drawn.

"How's that?" he asked. I appraised his body as I noticed that he was holding his side. His shirt stained with blood and a huge blow to his ribs appeared to be affecting his mobility.

"Solid attack. However, I think you only pissed him off, Eon," Dragonite responded, as the smoke faded away and the Legendary approached floating off the ground.

"Recover."

Greenlight emerged and healed the wounds covering him from head to toe. My eyes narrowed as I realized how bad the situation was. A Mega Evolved Mon that could heal his wounds, while still dealing out severe damage, to us? This would be an uphill battle. One that I was more than happy to undertake.

"Good Effort. But futile. I definitely felt those blows. My turn."

The world faded from view as a vice-like grip grabbed at my senses. Turning to the other three I realized I wasn't the only one under the effect of the telepathic attack.

Not good. MOVE!

Don't. You'll die...Just be still.

I could hear Mewtwo's voice in that statement and warded it off, focusing on Katherine to the extent of all else. I wouldn't let that happen again. If it killed me, so be it. The illusion shattered and I noticed that Mewtwo was moving towards Eon to kill him. Dashing, I arrived in front of Mewtwo in midair. I threw my first punch, only to cry out in pain as a massive Aura Sphere ripped through my shoulder. I ignored the pain and pushed onwards, unrelenting. I was slammed into the earth by a downward pressure. Recovering, I dodged dozens of ice shards and lightning bolts in succession. Before he could return his attention, Rose blindsided him. Her claws ripped into his right eye, and then stabbed into his chest, only for his hand to wrap around her neck.

"I'll SNAP -"

His words never completed themselves as several deep gouges appeared over his flesh, and Rose was released, pulling her claws from his chest.

"Don't let up!"

"I know!" I shouted, making a large half-circle to the backside of my opponent before both Eon and I closed in on him. He barely turned around in time, as my sword struck his forearm getting stuck in the flesh. Letting go, I struck his belly, ducking under a punch, and retaliating with a sidekick which made him slide back slightly. Pursuing him, Eon and I moved in concert, each attack coming at the same time, giving him very little time to react or counter. Ripping my sword free of his arm, I started to slash downwards only to be blindsided by an orange sphere that was slammed into my chest at point-blank range. The armor held up as the heat grew with each passing second before the attack was dissipated. Nonetheless, under the power which had been exerted the sleeve on my left arm blew apart, leaving that area unguarded. The force still stunned me momentarily, which was more than enough for Mewtwo to telepathically grab me and slam me into the ground. Before could deliver another attack, Eon grabbed his arm, and snapped it fiercely, before delivering a hook kick. I fought to my feet as our opponent warped away, giving us a small reprieve.

"I have to admit. That hurt. However…"

Green energy surrounded him, and he recovered some of the damage we had dealt with him. His arm reset itself and the bones set in place. The blood vanished, and the legendary appeared entirely rejuvenated.

"Damn him," I growled, much to Eon's amusement.

"The fact he has to resort to such underhanded tactics means he's scared," Eon taunted, glancing to Dragonite who returned the smirk.

"Oh. I have many tactics, but if you must know, I don't think your little band of four will do much to stop me. In fact, I can cut you down to three. Look at the Absol you've adopted. She's not here because of promises. She's here to kill me. To turn on you both afterward, so she can return to her pack. She's not your friend Kyle! Really-"

"SHUT UP!" Rose howled, turning my attention to her. She looked hastily at me and I could see the longing for me to not believe him.

"I can read her thoughts, Kyle," Mewtwo said, smirking. "In my current state, there is nothing I can't do in regards to Psychic power. Oh...Rose. Tell me. If that was your plan all along, why don't you just join me?"

"Enough with your mind games Mewtwo!" Eon screamed jumping across the field. As he launched himself at Mewtwo, a small sphere of fire formed in the palm of the Mega evolved mon.

"Kyle...it's not true."

I looked down at Rose to notice she was rocked to the core by Mewtwo's words. I watched as Mewtwo and Eon went back and forth before he called her name sharply.

"Rose. Now's not the time to give up. We can figure this out when the fight ends,"

"Oh. We all know how it'll end. Tell you what Rose. Join me, and I'll give you whatever you desire," Mewtwo said, narrowly avoiding another flurry of attacks from the Champion. Rushing to her side, I placed a hand on her paw, noticing the conflict which swirled deep within her.

"Rose. Snap out of it! If you switch sides, I'll die."

I ignored the conflict behind me, letting my guard down. Our opponent took that time, to make his move. I immediately pushed off, to intercept Mewtwo as he attempted to deliver a Mach Fist to the back of Rose's head. My sword reverberated as the strike hit the flat edge of my weapon. The steel shook as Mewtwo pressed harder. I only hoped my weapon would hold it's own.

No. Please...hold on!

To my dismay, the blade shattered like glass, as the attack slammed into my gut. Fire red pain rushed through me. I lost control of my body as I hit the ground hard. Coughing hard, I looked to see my blood splatter the mud. My vision dimmed, as my weakened midsection cried out in pain. Cramping forced me to curl over, but I refused to stay down. Shaking the pain out, I stood up as Eon swung his blade in a flurry that made Mewtwo retreat away from my position. Just as Mewtwo took one more step, a massive blast of dragon energy engulfed him from above. The resounding explosion, shifted me back as I stood up. Looking through the smoke, our target still stood. Unwilling to bow. Unwilling to bend. Or break.

"You guys are pissing me off. Enough playing around. Kyle. You die here."

My eyes widened as he held his hand up. White-hot energy emerged from his palm. It charged continuously, until outsized him and dwarfed the surrounding area.

That's...Hyper Beam! I have to dodge!

Before I could make my move the attack fired. My life flashed before my eyes as the attack scorched the earth and approached at literal light speed.

I won't make it.

I cowered, curling my hands around my head. A loud screech echoed through the air and my attention was drawn to the front as the attack was halted. Eon and Rose both stood in front of me, each pressing into the attack with a claw or blade to try and press it back. I considered trying to blindside our enemy, only for Eon and Rose to cry out in distress. The massive blast was pushing them back. Rushing to his side, I grasped Eon's blade and planted my feet assisting in the defense of our lives.

"JUST BURN AWAY MAGGOTS!"

Pressing harder on the sword, the ground pushed me further back, and yet we strove. A loud thump behind us, took my attention away, as Dragonite landed immediately behind us. His mouth turned the same color as the beam Mewtwo had fired, before unleashing his own. The energy rushed through us, rejuvenating our bodies, and pushing the energy beam back before a huge storm of dust and wind blew us apart from our opponent. As the smoke cleared out, I kept my eyes forward. Despite the blowback being on our end, the dmg had still reached the Mega Evolved mon, who collapsed to a knee.

"D-damn you," he growled, trying to rise again.

I sprinted full out at Mewtwo, delivering a combination of punches and kicks, as he recovered from his energy blast. I knew that both Mewtwo and Dragonite had a refractory period before they could attack again. As I landed another solid punch, Rose appeared behind him, slamming a massive dark blade into his back. Blood spurted from the wound, and our enemy grunted in pain. Eon appeared beside me, as we continued to push our opponent to his limits. I threw an uppercut, only for it be blocked by Mewtwo, as he grabbed me and Rose.

"I've had enough of you Eon. Say goodbye to these two."

The world tilted and a force pulled on my stomach. My vision grew clouded as a portal drew the three of in, and away from Eon. As we traveled a hundred miles away in the blink of a mile, Rose and I struck Mewtwo several times, knocking us free of his intended destination. We fell to the ground rolling end over end.

I stared at Mewtwo as I rose to my feet. We were surrounded by dozens of trees and a nasty looking cliff that hung to our left. Mewtwo had since reverted to normal and it was only me and Rose. Glancing to her I could sense her desperation as she gulped air down in an attempt to steady her nerves. My body itself felt rickety, but I knew that time was of the essence. Mewtwo thought we were weak and I had to prove to him that we were worth the effort. That he wouldn't put us down as easily as before. I glanced at the restriction band and considered taking it off. My right hand moved to the band, and I hesitated for a second. This wasn't the time to use this. I had to keep using what strength I currently had.

"AHHH!"

My eyes searched right, widening as I flashed back to the very moment I failed Katherine. Rose was held in Mewtwo's grasp soaring into the air, higher and higher with each passing second. She struggled to get free to no avail.

"Watch as this maggot falls. And you're next!" Mewtwo jeered, as my heart rate accelerated. My right hand tightened on the band and I accepted that it was now or never. I refused to let this fight end the way he wanted it to. Adjusting the weight to my left foot and tapping my right, I pushed off, my eyes still closed. My arms moved of their own accord, and I caught her mid descent, with relative ease. Closing my arms around her, I opened my eyes, to see Mewtwo a mere foot away from me with two massive Focus Blasts aimed at us. My body arched forward, feet ready to propel my body wherever I asked. As the first one fired, I homed in on the attack. With the lightest of touches, I bounced off of the orb, and to a tree branch. I caught my weight on the thick part of the limb and dashed to the ground, well aware of the second attack he had fired at my landing spot. I rolled several times, and let Rose go. Whirling around, I drew my blade as Mewtwo slammed me into a nearby tree, pinning me hard.

"Good! Struggle...and die!"

His arm came in a hook and I ducked narrowly avoiding a Psycho Cut which dismembered the tree behind me. A growl caught my eyes as Rose slammed a massive Dark cut into Mewtwo's leg from above. Her horn rent his flesh, and he howled out in pain. Coordinating my strikes, I delivered a fierce sidekick into his stomach, followed by an uppercut. My foot whipped around mid-hop and into his cheek, sending him flying. Rose intercepted him, with two strong shadow claws which he parried just barely. I stood there as Rose landed beside me.

Glaring at Mewtwo, I focused on the sensations flowing through my body. I dashed forward, ducking under a kick, before engaging Mewtwo again. My body whirled around him in a circular motion trying to get a read on his guard. As he turned to face me from behind, my fist and Rose's horn slammed into him from two different angles. He grunted in pain, but we refused to back down.

"Keep going!"

"I know!" she screamed, swiping with her right claw.

My eyes narrowed as grass emerged underneath her feet, attempting to bind her to the ground. To her credit, Rose narrowly lept free of the trap, only for Mewtwo to chokeslam her down. I freed her and swung, my attack missing, my eyes widening as another Psychic energy blade almost bisected me. The only thing that saved me, was my natural reflex, which made the attack slice a deep gash into my cheek. I cried out but recovered swiftly. Our onslaught didn't cease, as Rose and I tirelessly worked alone to put him down for good. I could only hope the fight was going better on my friend's side.

ARREN POV

I snapped another wrist and delivered a fierce punch to the Rocket Grunt before sending him sliding along the ground. Unlike Kyle, I wasn't a full out fighter, but a strategist. By the time, my opponents caught up, I had already decided the fight. Moving to my next opponent, I disarmed him, keeping my attention on the battle raging around me. As my eyes flicked left, I ducked under a blade, my eyes widening as I came face to face with a Scyther. The bug/flying type buzzed angrily, and my anger surged in response. Shifting my weight, I tapped the internal batteries on the brass knuckles I carried. My right hand came out of my pocket again, only this time to drive deep into the abdomen of the sycther. The stored power my Ampharos had provided exploded outward, surrounding the Bug-type. Before she could retaliate, I slammed one more fist into its head knocking it out.

A scream drew my attention, as Kyle's sister cried out. Her voice drew me to her, and Pene's plight. My eyes widened to see that Bry was on the ground, coughing up blood. As my next opponent approached my blind side, I pulled both hands out of my pockets. No more relaxation. I was going full out. Turning on the human girl, I wasted the one nanosecond I needed, breaking three joints, before crushing her windpipe with an uppercut. She collapsed, blood pouring from her mouth as I dashed to sweep up the electric/flying mouse. Tossing him up, my Pidgeot who had been soaring above caught Kyle's friend.

"Away!" I called out, only for my heart rate to skyrocket. From above a stray bolt of electricity from Zekrom homed in, slamming into my Pidgeot and Bry. Smoke poured off of my Pidgeot's wings as both Pokemon dead rolled towards the ground.

"No!" I cried out, only to watch as the level 40 Blastoise advanced on Emily. My eyes narrowed, as I noticed her holding her teammate who was coughing smoke, and remained motionless in her nap. Growling I closed the 30 meters in the breadth of three seconds, blocking the Hydro Pump with a single strike. The water flowed around me, as I took an aggressive stance. Playtime was over. They had hurt Kyle's family. MY FAMILY. My anger was triggered fully. As Blastoise aimed a cannon at me, I closed the distance and clogged the hole with my fist before delivering a stunning blow to his head. The water pressure built up but with nowhere to go, stopped inside the cannon. The liquid finally exploded outward from the appendage, spraying copious amounts of blood everywhere. The creature cried out, but I lashed out with a kick into its jaw which snapped it off. I somersaulted off of my opponent ready for more. As I landed though, I realized someone else had intervened. The water type was now in the air, floating from psychic power. The haze surrounding it constricted and prevented all any movement. Aiming a retaliatory shot with it's remaining gun, the appendage was ripped off with as literal effort as inhaling. She glared daggers as she advanced on the Pokemon until they were eye to eye. She was brutal and showed no mercy, starting with its arm. Slowly but surely it was pressed into his body, shattering under the immense pressure.

"You'll pay for hurting Chris!" she whispered, its blue eyes alit in fear. It realized that its death was going to be painful and slow for what it had done. Admiring her strength, I turned around ready to return to the front lines. The situation was handled. However, my body immediately tensed up as Alakazaam had blindsided me with an energy blast. The attack pulsed hotly in its palms. I had let my guard down, and it was too close for me to effectively dodge. Prepared for the worst, I braced my arms from the incoming attack ready for things to get interesting.

PENE POV

I wasn't too happy about the fight but had been doing well to manage the surrounding chaos. Each of my Pokemon had worked in concert to ward off all attackers. Unfortunately, the Blastoise had gotten past my Incineroar using a cheap bubble beam attack to distract him. The fucking bastard. Nonetheless, I assumed that perhaps Bryan and Delilah would be able to ward off the attacker and had focused on the front line which was pushing us away from the complex. It wasn't until I heard her scream was my focus shifted to the back. Glancing to Arren, he was already in motion to save Kyle's sister. My eyes flicked to Emily, and regret filled my gut. Her Braixen looked soaked to the bone. If he died because of me, I'd fucking hate myself for months on end. I prayed to my lucky stars that Olivia would be able to save my friend and her Pokemon. Kyle's sister would be devastated. To my surprise, the two had been fighting hard having easily taken down an Arbok and Breloom by themselves. Fear filled my limbs as an Alakazam emerged right behind Arren, with a massive energy blast aimed directly at him. Unwilling to let him get hurt, I called out to Incineroar. Despite being a heavier set Pokemon he closed the distance in the time it took for the Psychic to charge his attack. He slammed it down with a crushing Dark Lariat instantly KO'd it. Turning back to my team, I realized my mistake too late as Mandibuzz slammed into my Gallade. I recognized the move as Brave Bird, as it tore a massive hole through my Pokemon's chest. To his credit, he delivered a weak punch to knock it down, as he collapsed to his knees. Concern for my teammate overwhelmed rational thought, as I rushed to his side. As I arrived to investigate his wound, a Golbat flew directly at me. Before it could strike, my Incineroar swatted it to the ground, before ripping both of its wings off in defense of me. Investigating the cavity in his chest, my teammate touched my face. Tears poured down my eyes as he replayed his memories of us one after another in succession. The hole was too big, and the damage too much. Turning to the Mandibuzz I watched it smirk cockily at me. My words came out barely above a whisper, but I knew my Ninetales heard my command.

"Sheer Cold."

The air turned frigid around the vulture looking mon. Searching for an exit it cried out in pain as every inch of its body was turned into literal ice. Not frozen solid or encased. The bones turned to ice. Everything turned to ice. With grim satisfaction, I watched the Pokemon scream for mercy, only to fall apart, shattering into a million shards. Turning back to Gallade, his touch faded, and strength faltered. Clasping his hand, he gave me a sad smile before closing his eyes. Looking up I noticed Olivia had just arrived, pulling her bag free. We'd done well to avoid any actual casualties but now the outcome was looking overly grim.

"I … I don't think he'll make it," I said, as she started to examine my friend.

"I'll do my best. Focus on the fight," Kyle's mother said, appearing extremely saddened by his condition.

"They...they fucking….those….cock sucking assholes!" I screamed, my eyes streaming tears as I turned on the group of grunts which now approached us. Looking to Arren, I noticed that he was actually angry. It took a lot for anything to push us into a corner, but when they did, our enemies learned real quick it was a bad idea. We stepped over dozens of bodies as we menacingly advanced on the grunts who remained. Gengar had since merged with his body to provide him greater amplification to his abilities. The metal grips in his hands sparked with electricity, as he moved to the front lines.

"Back me up. This fight ends here. We aren't retreating," he growled to me.

"Let's make them suffer," I replied, angrily. They had taken one of my best friends away from me. I wouldn't forget him, but they wouldn't survive my anger. Incineroar and Ninetales followed me as we stalked forward. A storm brewed turning into golf ball-sized Hail which avoided me and Arren without us having to try. The oldest strategy in our book, Arren would attack from all their blindspots while I provided cover and sniper support with Incineroar also on the front lines. This fight had to end. And these assholes wouldn't get a chance to retreat. Kyle was fighting his fight. Now we had to protect him at all costs.

KYLE POV

My body screamed for the fight to end. My muscles ached, and sweat poured from every inch of my being. My vision blurred and several bruises and sprains decorated my physical form. The three of us all stood in a ring daring one of us to make a move.

"You both are pathetic. You won't kill me before Eon catches up. I transported us a thousand miles away. He still has to figure out the direction and meet us there. So? What will it be?" he taunted, using Recover again. His health started to surge only to stop just short of yellow. I wanted to hold him off until help arrived, but realized that I no longer had a choice. I had to give everything else I had into this fight.

"Rose."

She glanced at me, and I brought my hand up to the band. Her eyes widened in recognition before she placed herself in front of me.

"I'm gonna try to tap into every single ounce I got. Hold him off for thirty seconds. Can you do that?" I asked, undoing the latch.

"Do it."

Before Mewtwo could stop my action, I ripped the metal bracelet, crying out as a surge of power rushed through my body. Closing my eyes entirely, I held it in, before channeling every single drop of energy to my limbs, and letting it expand like a pulse. I let out a scream, trying hard to contain yet, pull every ounce of strength to the forefront of my body. As I felt my body react to my demands, I recognized that I wouldn't be able to fight at this level for long. Nonetheless, I had to give it everything. My eyes opened, and I looked to my friend, as Mewtwo held her head in the palm of his hand, a focus blast aimed at her chest. Just like with the two blades being launched at my friend I arrived just in time to deflect the blast away with a smack of my wrist. Mewtwo's eyes narrowed at my arrival, and I could practically hear Rose's relief as she stared at me. Before the Psychic-type could retreat, my free hand delivered a strike as hard as I could into his jaw followed by a kick that threw my opponent away. He recovered mid-air too late, as I arrived at his flank. His tail wrapped around me, only for me to stop him with one hand. The constriction did little to hold me in place, as I pulled him backward and sent him slamming back to the ground. The crater sent debris up, and I pursued him, zigzagging as he had earlier. He met me, firing a Dark Pulse followed by an up-close and personal Aerial Ace, teleporting behind me. My senses and adrenaline pumping on all cylinders I kept up, my body reacting to each threat naturally. As he came down from above, I delivered a spinning kick. As he recovered mid-attack and tried to heal, my sword stabbed through his shoulder, spitting blood out. He cried out in pain and grabbed my weapon. To my dismay, he used a single punch to shatter the blade before delivering a Hi Jump Kick at point-blank range. I ducked backward, and cartwheeled in time, making him miss me entirely. Recoil damage caused the Psychic-type to roll over and over before catching himself. I turned and closed the distance in a second.

Don't stop! Don't rest! Can't let up for a second, or the effects will catch up to me.

Landing in front of Mewtwo, I delivered a fury of punches and kicks which he met blow for blow. As I spun, my senses warned me too late of the Low Sweep. As my feet were taken out from underneath me, I crossed my arms in anticipation of a follow which came in the form of a Mach Punch. The strike sent me colliding through numerous trees. As I started to stand, the effects of my temporary power-up caught up fully with me. My body felt like lead, and I looked down to see my right arm was dislocated. My left leg refused to cooperate, and I could feel my internal organs had ruptured. The situation was growing desperate and I wasn't sure if I could keep going further.

"So much for-"

He was cut off mid-sentence as Rose struck him with another massively charged green Megahorn. The attack put him to his knees. Trembling I tried to drag myself forward. Rose lay on the ground huffing for air, as I limped forward step by step. Both of us had our proverbial limit and there was little to stop Mewtwo from slaughtering us like he wanted to.

"You can't protect her. Why bother? She's going to kill you after she kills me! She hates you, Kyle. She never cared, and I can foresee that this is all a ploy. Watch. When this is done, she'll leave you alone. She'll kill me, and you," Mewtwo stated, holding his right side in pain. My vision blurred, and I looked to Rose who remained motionless and didn't counter his words. I didn't know whether it was due to exhaustion or pain, but I had to get up. Pushing my body upwards, I trembled before spilling back to the mud.

"You don't know her…"I stated, trying to keep the faith I had in my friend. He was twisting things so that he could turn me on her.

"Am I lying? No. I can read her mind clearly. All those things about promises were lies. She was just saying those things so that you'd let your guard down. She never liked you. Never cared for you. In fact...she kept telling you how much she despised you. You know it's the truth," Mewtwo spoke, his voice calm and clear.

My inner demons rose up to try and accept his words as fact. I felt my doubts return full force and tried to shove them down. Rose was my friend. How could I believe this Pokemon who was trying to kill the ones I loved?

"How could she ever be friends with the one who killed her sister? Revenge is her only reason to be here," Mewtwo said.

My exhaustion was too great. My body wanted nothing more than to shut down. I felt my desire to fight fading as I realized that despite his low HP, Mewtwo was still strong enough to take us both down. Blood from all three of us soaked the ground we fought on, and I knew that the next attack would decide everything. Nonetheless, the desperation of the situation was something overwhelming. All my worries about this fight had been proven to be everything I had expected and more.

"Tell you what. I'll kill her here. And after I do, you can reminisce on how you failed her just like you did her sister. Then I'll send you to join her on the other side."

My eyes widened as Rose tried to stand, collapsing to the ground as Mewtwo closed on her. My heart threatened to cleave itself free of my ribcage as the scene I had fallen unconscious to started to replay in slow motion. I had failed once, and I couldn't again. Not with her life in the balance. The doubts I had before melted away one after the other. As I moved forward, a paw touched me reaching beyond the aether.

Protect my sister Kyle. You can do it!

Mewtwo rushed forward, a purple aura coming off of his paw aimed at Rose. Despite my body falling apart, I was propelled by sheer willpower. I promised to protect her, and in this instance, I refused to let Mewtwo take her life. With the last little strength I had, I intercepted the attack, with my left outstretched hand. My vision faded as the attack connected and a burning sensation rushed up my extremity. My right foot lashed out to deliver a stunning blow as I slammed to the ground. Crying out in pain I curled up in the mud. I shook as a burning sensation filled my limb and refused to abate. I howled into the night and wished the pain would fade but it refused to. My life flashed before me. All the good memories I had built up. The photo I kept of my best friends fluttered in front of my eyes. I had pushed too hard. Despite my best efforts to remain conscious, the pain dragged me free from my body and I was falling. I had exceeded my limit. The world spun around me bit by bit before...darkness consumed me. When I reached the edge of the shadows a single wall of fluid extended in front of me. On the other side stood Kat. She looked at me with an expectant smile. To her left, stood a tall well-built man I recognized. Despite having only known him a small time, it was nonetheless a joy to see him. He had always been quiet so it didn't surprise me when he remained silent. His emerald eyes a mirror of my own, but with blonde hair, he gave me a solemn wave. My father and Kat. I took a step forward and touched the viscous fluid. It bounced against my touch.

Kyle...I had hoped we wouldn't see each other so soon, love.

The voice of my dearest friend called out to me. I wanted so much to be with her. I felt compelled to cross that barrier and leave everything behind. I hadn't failed my journey and now there was a chance at redemption. I contemplated what really mattered in this timeless space.

Was this how my story ended?

Had I failed everyone?

Looking back to Katherine, I noticed that she had turned away to look over her shoulder.

Two figures loomed much taller and higher than either Kat or the human as they approached the wall. I immediately recognized them for who they were.

Yveltal.

Xerneas.

Life and Death.

The image of Kat shifted into Rose and back, the two blurring before my eyes.

"It's going to be okay. Just hang on," the voice whispered.

And I knew it to be true.

Thank you all for your love and support. One final chapter to go and this story will be complete in its entirety. So far nothing has come from the reviews for my other story, so I assume that if they take it down all well.

I'm going to keep publishing until such a time when I am forced to move. I'm removing the previous chapter. I expect I should have the final chapter done by the end of this week! Until next time...farewell!