The next evening, back at the apartment complex…

Knock! Knock! Knock!

"Hello?" Volt opened the door. "Oh! It's you two! I'm so glad to see you're alright! You might've heard but there's this crazy curse running amok! Luckily nobody in my family has gone goth…" The Pikachu sighed.

"That's a relief…" Teruo sighed. "You have no idea what we just went through…" He added.

"I'd believe it. You guys look like you've seen a ghost… Come inside, we'll treat you to some herbal tea." Volt stepped aside. "Ma! We got guests!" He called out.

Hikari waltzed right in. "Don't mind if we do! Just wait 'til you hear our story. It's gonna blow your minds!" Teruo followed suit. Despite Volt's family specializing in modern gadgets and vehicles, the apartment was rinky-dink. Among a sea of antique decorations, a grandfather clock was the crowning jewel; customized by Richard's great-grandaddy. When Hikari and Teruo arrived at the living room, three of Volt's siblings were tussling with each other.

"Oh hey! It's Hikari!" One of the siblings exclaimed.

"Yo, Teruo! Long time no see!" Another said.

"Have a seat, you don't look too good." The youngest sibling; a Pichu, commented.

"Thanks, guys. It's a pleasure seeing your chipper faces." Hikari greeted as he and Teruo hopped onto the couch. "Is anyone else here? I don't want anyone to miss out on our tale of danger!"

"Dad's still at work, so it's just Ma and the twelve of us." A sibling answered.

The Pichu tilted her head. "Danger?"

"Y-Yeah… We had a close encounter with a… G-Ghost…" Teruo murmured.

"Woah! What!? You're kidding me!" The second sibling exclaimed. "Ma! C'mere! The Kiryus had a brush with the undead!"

A female Pikachu donning an apron walked out of the kitchen; carrying a tea set. It was Richard's wife: Daryl. "What's all this ruckus? Can't ya see yer mother's trying to make some tea for the boys?"

"Hikari wants to tell a story!" The Pichu exclaimed, her tiny finger pointing at the Axews.

"Oh my! This should be intriguing!" Daryl gasped, setting the tray on the coffee table. "I'll wrangle the kids. Help yourselves to some tea. It'll calm yer nerves." She smiled.

"Thanks ma'am…" Teruo said, taking his teacup.

Volt zoomed to the couch, pulling Hikari close. "A story, eh? Knowing you, this should be a tale of heart-pounding action." He grinned.

"Believe me, it's gonna knock your socks off!" Hikari claimed. Soon sparks flew around the living room as the entire family gathered around. "So there we were, taking a relaxing stroll down the park when out of the blue came a Toxicroak assaulting a civilian! Wanna know what happened next?"

"W-What?" Pichu asked.

"Once the final blow was struck, the Toxicroak was ghostified right before our very eyes!"

GASP!

"You can't be serious! W-Was the Toxicroak cursed?" Volt asked.

"It was black as coal, my friend." Hikari answered.

"No way! Then what did you do?"

"I couldn't just stand there and watch an innocent civilian get beaten. So I wanted to give the ghost a taste of its own medicine!"

"How did that go?"

"All it took was a couple of wallops and he was sent crying to his momma!"

Teruo sneered at Hikari. "Bullshit. You ran away when you realized the Toxicroak was leagues above you."

"Oh that's not important. What was important was what happened next." Hikari waved off. "After our close encounter, Teruo and I went to the church to seek guidance from the priest. Since ya know, he's a specialist in all things supernatural." He continued.

"Are you talking about the church up at Celetubby Hill? Isn't that the one with the ghost-busting harlots?" Daryl asked.

"Funny you should say that 'cause those crude angels were receiving a sermon when we arrived. At first, they doubted our plight until suddenly… BAM! The church was raided by a horde of ghosts! And their commander wasn't any old spirit; it was a Bisharp! According to him, he's the 'emissary of shadows' who only serves his dark overlord. Seriously, we could've cut ourselves with the edge he was spouting."

"That explains your scars." Volt observed. "So what happened next?"

"We sprang into action! I was mowing down ghosts like no tomorrow while the angels worked their holy magic. Heck, even Teruo got in on the fun! Isn't that right, bro?" Hikari patted his sibling's back.

"I'm gonna be honest; it was scary facing a pack of Pawniards. But thanks to Hikari, I pulled myself together and fought my way to victory." Teruo admitted.

"Atta boy! Now you understand the hype for colosseum matches. Trust me, you're gonna love our field trip tomorrow." Volt cheered.

"It was more of a do-or-die kind of situation, so I'm still aloof on the whole 'fisticuffs' nonsense. But I want to support my brother."

"That's understandable, sweetie. I ain't too big on sports, either. But I only ask of you boys one thing: Please don't do anything reckless tomorrow. The news told me that several more people were attacked by Poke-ghosts. Not only that, but Timothy and Agatha were sent home early because of a ghost incident. Isn't that right, kids?" Daryl worried.

The two siblings nodded. "To be exact, we were taking our algebra exam when we heard a crash in the halls." Timothy started to explain.

"When two students barged into our classroom! They were clawing and biting each other like nobody's business. And before we knew it, the delinquents turned into ghosts!" Agatha added.

"The entire school had to be evacuated. As we left, the halls looked like the aftermath of a typhoon! Lockers crushed like tin cans, water bubblers bursting like geysers, and I think a few students had to be sent to the hospital…"

"Oh dear… I'm glad you two made it out in one piece." Teruo gulped.

"I don't know what I'd do if something happened to my precious angels…" Daryl worried.

"What's funny is that this morning we were discussing yesterday's Toxicroak incident. The video of the attack was all over social media! So it's possible that the troublemakers took inspiration and decided to throw away their lives for whatever reason." Agatha theorized.

"I can't believe this… It's only been a day and the city's already delved into chaos." Hikari shook his head. "I must do something! Fortunately for us, after we pummeled the horde of Pawniard to oblivion, the angels decided to help us on our mission to save Daten City from this madness. And part of the deal was that Teruo and I had to crash at the church for the time being, just letting you all know."

Volt almost spat out his tea. "Excuse me?! You're going to lift the curse? I mean, don't get me wrong. I commend you for such a noble cause, but you don't know what you're dealing with. Whoever hexed the whole city must be some archmage who can obliterate you with a flick of a wrist."

"Didn't you hear the part where the Anarchy Sisters became our guardian angels? With their holy power by our side, we'll fight our way to the top and bring light back to all!"

"I imagine it more as a pilgrimage." Teruo commented.

"But still, please be careful. I don't recall the angels doing charity. For all I know, they'll flake out on you when you need them most." Volt insisted. "Not to mention that you'll have to go through that Bisharp and the rest of the ghastly goons."

"If no one else is gonna stand up to this chaos, then it's gotta be us! Heroes will always triumph over evil, one way or another. Plus, we're Pokemon! All we gotta do is keep fighting until we're strong enough to take on the shadowy big shot himself!" Hikari claimed.

"As long as you promise to come back safely, you have the support of the family. It takes a lotta guts to take on the forces of evil." Daryl said. "You boys should get some rest, you three have a big day tomorrow."

"I suppose we should. It's been a pleasure catching up. I'm glad to see you all safe and sound."

"Admittedly I'm still sore from yesterday…" Teruo sighed, rubbing his shoulder. "But not to worry, ma'am. We'll try and keep your son up-to-date on our quest. And hey, maybe going on a heroic journey might be fun. … Hopefully."

"You'll get the hang of it, lil' bro! You know what they say: No pain, no gain." Hikari patted Teruo's back. "I want you to take mental notes during Vulcan's tussle with the ice beast. If you want to fight off evil, ya gotta learn from the pros."

"Jeez… This is gonna be hell…" Teruo muttered.

"And I promise to cook for you, so don't be afraid to take those rest days. Those are equally important for muscle growth."

"Thank you, Hikari…" Teruo faintly smiled.

"Aw, now ain't that sweet? In fact, how about you boys stay for just a while longer? I can heat up some leftover beef stew. It's got all the right stuff to give your muscles a helping hand!" Daryl offered.

"That'd be wonderful!" Teruo answered.

"Heh, I don't see why not." Hikari answered.

Volt's ears twitched. "Can I have some too, Ma?" He chirped, wagging his bolt-shaped tail.

"Of course, dearie! That goes for anyone else who wants a pep in their step." Daryl smiled before heading back to the kitchen. It wasn't long until dinnertime, and after Hikari and Teruo had their fill it was time to say goodbye once again as they exited the front door.

"Thank you so much for everything, ma'am! We'll figure out a way to return the favor, I promise!" Hikari said.

Daryl giggled. "Oh, hun. Going on a quest to save the city is more than enough. Remember to be careful and stay vigilant. For all its glitz and glamour, the city's rife with crooks and evil spirits. All it takes is a turn at the wrong alley to be trapped in their wicked world. It's like a tar pit, once you seep your hands in darkness, there's no turning back…" She warned.

"We'll be careful, right Hikari?" Teruo worried.

"My ambition is stronger than any degenerate in this sin city. Gonna take a lot more than that to break our spirit!" Hikari said.

Volt popped up. "And remember: We meet at the Colosseum tomorrow; 12 o'clock sharp. I don't want to miss any second of the hot action!"

"But of course, dude! Meet ya at the gate!" Hikari winked, pointing with finger guns.

"Excellent. Good luck on your quest!" Volt farewelled.

After the Kiryu siblings said their goodbyes, they made their way back to the church…

The following day…

Today was the day. Hikari and Teruo found themselves at the gilded, marble gates of Daten City's Colosseum; the epicenter of hot action. The brothers gazed upon the Charizard statue which was held up by colossal marble columns.

Teruo whistled. "That must be Vulcan. It's one thing to be a sports celebrity, but getting your own statue? He must be a Greek hero."

"You don't know the half of it, dude." Hikari said. "You see that crown over there?" He pointed at the gilded straps donning the statue's head. "And you notice that shiny, blue gem that looks like the inside of a marble?"

"Yeah? What's so special about it?"

"That allows Vulcan to undergo a powerful transformation! You might think that he's tough now, but wait 'til you see his blue flames of fury! Some even say that his Blue Flare Blitz has the intensity of a thousand suns."

"A thousand suns, huh? That's ridiculous. I'll have to see for myself before I believe those tall tales."

"Oh hey! There's Volt!" Hikari rushed over to his good friend waiting at the ticket booth.

"Ey! Ya finally made it!" Volt smiled. "I've been here since 6 AM!"

"You've been waiting for 6 hours? Isn't that a tad extreme?" Teruo asked.

"Not if you wanna be first in line for Vulcan's big show! Do you know how long I've been waiting for this day? Too long."

"I don't blame ya! Everyone's hyped to see the Big Man face off against the Ice Titan." Hikari said.

"Then what are we waiting for?! The gang's all here and it looks like the fight will start any minute now!" Volt insisted.

"Oh, right! C'mon, Teruo! We're about to witness a duel of a lifetime!" Hikari grabbed Teruo's hand.

"I have a feeling we're being watched…" Teruo worried.

"That's just the jitters from the other day. Forget all your troubles and enter a world of thrills." Hikari reassured his brother as the three entered the colosseum.

As expected, seats were packed as the legendary Charizard was scheduled to arrive. The trio got to their seats, eager to watch the brawl unfold.

"Man, even from the outside I could hear the cheers…" Teruo observed, gazing at the sea of people and Pokemon.

"That's just what happens when you're Daten City's champion. In fact, Vulcan's got fans from all over the world!" Volt said, taking a sip of his drink.

"No kidding! Say, about that Ice Titan… I did a bit of research before I went to bed and according to folktales; it can fuse with legendary dragons. Which means that Vulcan could technically be facing two foes. When he wins this battle, it's gonna cement him in the history books!" Hikari said.

"You're giving me goosebumps! It'd be so fucking sick if that were the case."

"Thank goodness we're in the back seat, huh? Away from the crossfire…" Teruo said, looking at the arena down below…

TOO-TOO-TOO-TOOOOM!

The crowd went silent. Trumpets had signalled the gates to open. Entering the arena was the man of the hour: Vulcan. He was a brawny dragon; fitting for a champion fighter.

"Damn, guess that statue wasn't embellished. The guy's built like a shit brickhouse!" Teruo commented.

"What did I tell ya? Vulcan's an inspiration for athletes everywhere! If only I had the chance to go toe-to-toe with such a juggernaut." Hikari said.

"I heard that he was on the varsity team back in middle school. Imagine being the poor sap that had to face the Vulcan." Volt added.

"I'd imagine they brought lil' white flags just in case."

Volt chortled. "You crack me up, buddy!"

Vulcan looked at the crowd and took a deep breath…

GROOAAAR!

He let out a mighty roar, creating an arc of flames which sent the crowd into a frenzy. "Goood afternoon, Daten City! Are y'all ready for this?" Vulcan bellowed. The crowd's cheers intensified. "I can't hear you!" He bellowed. The colosseum practically shook with praise. "I'm about to introduce this sub-zero chump to the unmatched power of the sun!" Vulcan billowed fire into the air; its warm, crimson light illuminated the audience. Vulcan then took to the sky and performed a series of acrobatics; barrel-rolling, loopty-looping, and stall-turning through rings of his own fire.

"A bit of a showboat, ain't he?" Teruo said, Vulcan's flame reflecting in his eyes.

"That's why I love him! He's the roughest, toughest fighter and he'll make sure you'll never forget it!" Volt commented.

After the pyrotechnic pre-show, the chamber doors finally opened for Vulcan's opponent, frigid mist spilled onto the field. A pair of yellow eyes faintly illuminated the fog as the beast stomped out. The fog soon dissipated, revealing a massive, cool-gray dragon whose body was veiled in ice, whose wings were frozen solid. The monster towered over Vulcan.

"H-Hikari?!" Teruo held onto Hikari. "What exactly is that thing!?"

"So that's what Kyurem looks like… With a nickname like 'Ice Titan', I figured it'd be a lot bigger." Hikari muttered to himself.

"Are you whom they call… 'Vulcan'?" Kyurem gasped, glaring at his foe. "I have heard of your brave endeavors. Defeating a mega Tyranitar whilst you were still a Charmeleon? It appears that you were destined to be amongst Daten City's paladins."

Vulcan smirked. "You're damn right! I've had my fair share of ferocious monsters, so a Tyranitar was a walk in the park! All it took was a Focus Punch for ol' Godzilla to cry for mommy!" Vulcan gloated, polishing his bicep.

"Fascinating… Within my soul is an eternal emptiness that I seek to fulfill. Which is why I have flown from the frigid mountains to test my strength against this land's finest warriors. Are you the one to satiate my desire?" Kyurem wondered.

"Only one way to find out, you giant popsicle!" Vulcan readied himself for a fight.

"I am the living embodiment of all that is frigid. Will your embers melt my glacial core? Or will your flames peter out before the might of winter?" Kyurem snarled.

"You're on!" Vulcan roared. "I hope you brought sunscreen, because summer is coming in hot!" He taunted. The crows erupted as the battle finally began.

Kyurem started his assault by summoning a flurry of icy stalagmites that chased Vulcan. Vulcan launched himself backwards, evading the incoming attack. He countered with a Fire Blast which shattered the ice. Kyurem's eyes started glowing; creating rocks from its surroundings. "Try dodging this!" Kyurem shouted, launching the rocks at the Charizard.

"Woah!" Vulcan quickly swerved. He managed to dodge all but a few stones. "Ow! W-Well played." Vulcan shook off the blow. "Now it's my turn!" He took to the sky and surrounded his body in flames. Unbeknownst to him, dark clouds were beginning to form over the arena. "Are you fast enough to face me?" He made a headlong charge towards Kyurem. "Get ready for a beating of a—"

"NOT SO FAST!"

An eerie, echoing voice grinded the battle to a halt.

"Hey, what's the big idea? Can't you see we're in the middle of a brawl?!" Vulcan protested.

"Who dares interrupt our battle?" Kyurem hissed. The audience was equally befuddled as they murmured amongst each other.

"Wait… Why do I know that voice?" Hikari pondered.

Teruo shuddered. "It can't be who I think it is, c-can it?"

"Hm?" Volt tilted his head. "What are you two talking about?"

"Well, remember our story from last night?" Hikari said.

"Yeah… Wait! Don't tell me that he is here to start some shit."

"That's what we're afraid of! I pray to Arceus that it's just a run-of-the-mill ghost. At least then we'll be in safe hands…" Teruo admitted.

"Speaking of, here comes our mystery spirit now." Hikari observed.

A whirlwind of shadows appeared between the dueling dragons. From the darkness came the spectre behind the voice. It was the Disciple of Shadows: Akihiro.

"Salutations, Daten City. My name is Akihiro; Disciple of Shadows. And I have come to demonstrate how darkness can unlock one's true power! No longer shall you be blinded by the light! In due time, your full potential will be realized thanks to the darkness' cold embrace! For I shall free this noble beast!" Akihiro announced before the audience, pulling out what appeared to be a DNA splicer; embedded with shadow crystals.

"So that's Edgy McEdgerton…" Volt scratched his chin.

"In the flesh. What sort of scheme is he trying to pull now?" Hikari snapped.

"He must be getting desperate after losing his army. Who enacts their evil plan in broad daylight?" Volt witted.

"Someone who's about to commit a crime of the century…" Teruo gulped.

"Watch closely, mortals!" Akihiro hopped onto Kyurem. "For the shadows shall bless this poor creature with the power to reduce this city to rubble!" The Bisharp drove the DNA splicers right through the beast's hide.

ROAAAAAR!

Kyurem bellowed in pain. "What is the meaning of all this?!" Kyurem thrashed about, trying to shake off his assailant.

"It's no use! Let the darkness embrace you and lead you to salvation!" Akihiro backflipped onto the ground. "Isn't that what every Pokemon wants? To be the most powerful in all the land?"

"Only on our own terms, string bean!" Vulcan roared. "You can't force Pokemon to be the best! The reason why power is so rewarding is because we work towards it! Just as Arceus intended!"

"Silence! Unlike you, I am not bound to the unjust rules of the heavens!" Akihiro barked. "Soon you shall see what true power is…" He chuckled.

Kyurem stopped in its tracks. Its mind went blank. Its eyes lost their glow as the darkness began to take over. The dragon was suddenly engulfed in shadows. Spectral swirls emanated as its body absorbed the DNA Splicer's dark energy…

SKREEEOOOONK!

Shadows dispersed. What was once a Kyurem is now a ghost! Its spiraled eyes glowed bright orange; as did frozen crest. If that wasn't enough, the overflow of its wintry power was manifested by an immense glacier on its back. Kyurem bellowed, surrounding itself with giant icicles.

Vulcan stood petrified at the morbid transformation. What was supposed to be a typical match now turned into a haunting. "Y-You call that true power? All you did was give him a new coat of paint!"

Akihiro smirked, standing beside the frozen phantom. "Seems that you recognize when you've been bested. I'll offer you a deal. If you forfeit this match, I'll personally show you to Lord Tetsuya and he will grant you glory beyond your wildest dreams."

Vulcan took a deep breath, collecting himself. "As if I'm gonna let some poltergeist beat the Raging Heat Wave! I am numero uno around these parts, so allow me to show you what hard work and determination can do!" He braced himself, launching into the air. "And after I'm through with Kyurem, you're next to get scorched!" This instigated a wild cheer from the crowd.

Akihiro cackled. "Your pride will be your downfall. I'll be back to collect your soul from the rubble. Lord Tetsuya will be elated to have a resilient member of his forces. You won't regret it, either. Farewell!" The Bisharp then vanished into thin air, leaving only Vulcan and a spectral Kyurem.

"Alright, you abominable snowman. It's just you and me, now. Give it all you got!" Vulcan then let out a noble roar. He began encircling his opponent, firing blazing shots as he went along.

Kyurem hissed as the fire scorched its body. "Power… Surging…" It gasped, the frigid air around it forming giant icicles. Each icicle chased Vulcan like homing missiles.

"Oh shit!" Vulcan swerved around each one, countering with another Fire Blast.

FWOOOSH!

A direct hit! Kyurem was engulfed by the raging inferno. It appeared to be an easy victory for Vulcan until…

FREEZE!

A burst of arctic air erupted from Kyurem's sub-zero core and dissipated the flames. "You utter fool! Did you believe that your heat was enough to melt my ice-cold exterior!? I'll extinguish your flames and feast on your frozen corpse!" Kyurem taunted. It fired back a pulse of draconic energy at its foe.

Vulcan attempted another dodge but it failed, almost knocking him to the ground. "Agh… You're a mighty good shot, blizzard breath." He said, stabilizing himself. "But here comes the real firestorm! It's time for some claw-to-claw combat!" Vulcan dove towards Kyurem, readying his flame-infused claws.

SLASH!

Vulcan's claws tore into Kyurem's chest.

SKREEEOOONK!

Kyurem screeched, instinctively scratching back at Vulcan with its ghastly claws. "How dare you!?"

Vulcan landed back on solid ground, standing tall before the monster. "H-Heh… I'm sorry man, but you had your guard down. Ain't my fault you can't handle the heat…" Vulcan's body started to tremble, forcing him to kneel.

Kyurem gave his opponent a snaggletoothed smirk. "What seems to be the matter? Has my might overwhelmed your bravado?" He mocked.

"In your dreams! I'd never kowtow so easily before the likes of you! Not when my adoring fans are watching… Grh… They believe in me and I'm sure as hell not going to let them down!" Vulcan snarled back, struggling to stand back up.

"Perhaps Akihiro was onto something… I've brought Daten City's champion to his knees… All thanks to the power of darkness. What a fool you are, Vulcan! This power could've been yours if you followed the will of Lord Tetsuya!"

"What? And be a slave to some schmuck in the shadows? I'd rather die with my dignity than to serve his evil schemes! Once I pummel you to a pulp, I'm gonna give Akihiro a piece of my mind and personally deliver his head to Tetsuya!"

"Bullheaded to the very end. I shall finish you off and show these peons that darkness is the key to ultimate power!" Kyurem rasped, its tail building up energy as it began to charge its frigid hyper beam.

Much like the rest of the audience, Hikari, Teruo, and Volt looked on in terror. Could this be Vulcan's final fight? Will Daten City's hero be engulfed by the shadows? Would this abominable snowman be free to wreak havoc on Daten City? One thing is for certain: Hikari wasn't going to let Akihiro get the last laugh.

"I can't take this anymore. Vulcan's gonna be a frozen TV dinner if someone doesn't act now!" Hikari exclaimed.

"Oh no! Don't get into your heroics again. Unlike that Toxicroak, this isn't some low-level mook! This is a monster with a glare that can freeze you solid!" Teruo protested.

"That doesn't matter! We can't sit here and watch one of Daten City's greatest heroes die!"

"What if someone more powerful swoops in? Ya know, someone who can actually take on the monster?"

Hikari looked around only to see panicking onlookers. "Tch. They're too chicken shit by the looks of it. I'm going in!" Hikari sprinted towards the arena.

"Hikari, wait!" Teruo then sighed, facepalming. "Damn it… I'll be right back, Volt. I have to go get my brother before he gets himself killed." Teruo proceeded to chase after his older sibling.

"How they're even brothers is beyond me. Hikari must have one hell of a plan or else this city's a Winter Wonderland." Volt commented, eating some popcorn.

Down at the arena, Vulcan turned his head to see the Kiryu brothers rapidly approaching Kyurem. "What the–"

Hikari lunged at the ghost and slashed its neck with his tusks; catching the Kyurem off-guard and causing it to misdirect its hyper beam towards the ceiling.

VZOOOOOM!

Befuddled, Vulcan rubbed his eyes and took a second look at what just happened. "What in the hell?! Hey you! This ain't a game, you crazy kid!" He exclaimed.

Teruo approached the Charizard. "I deeply apologize for my brother's actions. He can be quite the handful sometimes…"

While the Kyurem was recharging, Hikari went back to face Vulcan. "I just saved your ass when no one else would. I have a bone to pick that scumbag Bisharp and I wasn't gonna sit in the bleachers and let him have his way!" Hikari insisted.

"I appreciate the sentiment, but how do you plan to take on that?" Vulcan pointed at the ghost.

"I was thinking I'd serve as a diversion while you recuperate, allowing you to finish off the monster. Don't tell me the Almighty Vulcan has already thrown in the towel!"

"Who? Me? I'm the undisputed King of the Ring! I'm not gonna let some pipsqueak hog all the glory. I'll shake off these shadows and incinerate that glacier! Just give me a few minutes, alright? In the meantime, try not to become a Dragon-cicle!"

"Don't encourage him!" Teruo complained.

"Your brother's got guts. Who am I to stop a hero's ambition? In fact, how about you join in? It could be a valuable learning experience for ya!" Vulcan suggested.

"What kind of nonsense is that? From what I see, all you gladiators do is throw punches at each other until the one knocks out. Why would I risk my neck for Hikari's rash actions?!"

"Kid, you're the one cared enough to follow him. There's no turning back now. And when those stone gates close, you're gonna have to fight 'til you seize victory. That's how you move forward in life."

Teruo sighed. "And here I thought athletes were just meatheads…"

"Don't beat yourself up about it now, dude. Go help your brother and show Akihiro what true power is!" Vulcan asserted.

Teruo braced himself. This was his trial of courage. He's got to walk through the blizzard for the sake of Daten City; but most importantly for Hikari. "T-There's nothing to fear with Vulcan on our side…" He muttered to himself. "Big bro! Let's slay this monster together!"

"I knew you'd come around, Teruo!" Hikari smirked.

"Oh don't get me wrong, if we end up in the afterlife I'm totally blaming you for this!" Teruo sassed.

"Remember, you only have to keep it busy for a while! I'll swoop in and land the final blow!" Vulcan stressed as the Kiryu brothers approached the titan.

Kyurem shook its head, having finally got its act together. "How embarrassing for the would-be champion to be rescued by civilians. Not that it matters. After I demolish these impudent pests, I'll crush you, Vulcan!"

"The darkness must've scrambled your sense of judgment if you think that's a good idea! Oh well… Come and get us, Frosty!" Hikari goaded.

"As you wish." Kyurem roared, firing an Ice Beam at the brothers.

Hikari and Teruo dodged the blast just in time, looking back at the path of frigid stalagmites.

"I-It's even colder than I imagined!" Teruo shivered.

"I'm sure even penguins would agree with you. We have to split up! There might be a crack in Kyurem's ice-cold exterior." Hikari suggested.

"And if we're apart, then the monster would have to split its attention, thus lowering its guard for Vulcan to strike… Hikari, you're a genius!"

"3, 2, 1… Break!" Hikari and Teruo ran opposite directions, scuttling about the arena. Meanwhile Kyurem continued to fire at the Kiryus, alternating between siblings with little to no avail. But for every miss, the ring became more frozen…

SLICE!

Hikari Night Slashed Kyurem's ankle.

FWOOSH!

Teruo unleashed Dragon Rage, melting some of the ice.

The glacial behemoth aimlessly fired ice shots as it began to teeter in desperation; not helping was the hulking chunk of ice on its back. Several shots reached the spectators, causing widespread panic. Many in the crowd made a beeline towards the exit, not wanting to be a victim of the frozen phantom and leaving only superfans and dedicated cameramen in the remaining audience. But thanks to the Kiryus, Kyurem completely forgot about his main target…

Vulcan finally shook off his injury and took to the skies. "Booyah! I'm back, baby! I just need a little more time before I can use my ultimate attack. I gotta hand it to those kids, they bought me valuable time. Though, I'm not sure how much longer they'll last. Kyurem's gotta be at the breaking point by now." Vulcan worried, the jewel on his crown faintly glowing.

ROAAAR!

"ENOUGH OF THIS INSOLENCE!" Kyurem bellowed, "GLACIATE!" It conjured a mighty blizzard. The colosseum soon became a frozen tundra, a thick layer of ice covering the ground. Massive glaciers formed around the Kiryu brothers, pushing them back together.

"D-Damn it, Hikari! I knew this shit would happen to us but you had to hit the monster, didn't you?" Teruo chastised.

"I'd rather die than let Vulcan's soul be taken by Akihiro! H-Heh. Looks like this giant popsicle has reached its boiling point. Isn't that ironic?" Hikari smirked.

"T-This is no time to be cracking jokes, Hikari!"

Kyurem's shadow loomed over the brothers. They were trapped. Sub-zero air surrounded them as the monster drew closer and closer; its frozen missiles primed to strike. Their hearts raced. Hikari took a deep breath. He puffed out his chest, trying to look tough for Teruo.

"How can you have a straight face at a time like this?! We're about to be impaled!" Teruo panicked.

"Stay behind me! I'm the one Kyurem wants! Besides, it's not like me to let everyone down; especially you! I'll go down swinging if I have to!" Hikari blurted out.

"H-Hikari…" Teruo sighed, hiding behind Hikari. "You might be a loose cannon, but you're still my big bro…" He faintly smiled.

"It's unfortunate that your struggle was for naught. I shall bring another Ice Age to Daten City! You foolish beings are coddled by the warm light instead of embracing the everlasting frost. Frigidness is the ancestral condition of the world! Now perish…" Kyurem gasped, about to land the killing blow before a whirl of azure fire ignited behind it…

GROOAAAAAAR!

From the flames came Vulcan; Mega evolved!

"Kept ya waiting, huh? You really think you can snuff out Daten City's radiant sun that easily? For as long as Daten City believes in me, I will overcome anyone and any-thing that stands in my way! Let's finish this, you oversized fridge!" Vulcan taunted, slashing Kyurem with a Dragon Claw.

Kyurem painfully screeched. "You! I'll send you into a deep freeze!" It flung its icicles at Vulcan.

"Ya think that's gonna work twice?" Vulcan smirked, delivering another Fire Blast which not only liquified the ice, but scorched the frigid ghost.

"Vulcan, you madlad!" Hikari exclaimed.

"Is this why Vulcan is so popular? Because I'll admit, that is a wicked transformation!" Teruo commented.

"You're damn right. He's one of the few warriors who can Mega Evolve as it takes a lifetime of training and discipline in order to control such raw power." Hikari explained.

"Amazing…" Teruo and Hikari watched in awe as Vulcan zipped around Kyurem. holding Hikari close as they now watched Vulcan zip around Kyurem.

Kyurem fired dragon pulses only for them to all miss. "This can not be! I shall not be defeated by the likes of you!"

Vulcan guffawed. "Is that your ultimatum? Pretty pathetic villain speech, if you ask me! Here's my closing statement!" He flew higher and higher, surrounding his body in a blue blaze so intense that Kyurem's glacier started melting.

"Hit the deck!" Hikari pulled Teruo as they hid behind a column.

"FLAAAAAAARE BLITZ!" Vulcan roared before dive-bombing Kyurem.

KA-BOOOOOM!

Vulcan's ferocious flames penetrated Kyurem's ice-cold core. At long last, the spirit was put to rest. The rest of the ice melted from the intense heat. After the steam cleared up, all that was left was Vulcan, the Kiryu brothers, and a generous pile of Heaven coins. Vulcan let out a victory roar.

GWOAAAAR!

The audience went wild, cheering for their white-hot hero.

"Whoo! Now that's what I call a tango!" Vulcan cheered, basking in the attention.

"We did it, Hikari! Your crazy plan actually worked! And here I thought we were going to be Kyurem chow…" Teruo sighed in relief. The Kiryu brothers left their hiding spot and approached Vulcan.

"Spectacular show, hot stuff! The fans are loving you!" Hikari congratulated Vulcan.

Vulcan chuckled. "I should be thanking you for saving my hide back there! Ya got what it takes to be a true hero!"

"Aw, ya really think so?"

"I know so. If it weren't for you, Daten City would've lost their biggest star." Vulcan took at glance at the divine coins. "What are these, arcade tokens?"

"It's a long story… We're on a mission to stop Akihiro and Tetsuya from taking over Daten City. So the other day we made a deal with the Anarchy sisters that they'll help us as long as we help them hunt ghosts." Teruo explained.
"So… Is that like the currency in Heaven?"

"Pretty much."

"Ha! Of course they'd have you be their bounty hunters. Those angels, man. They do anything for a quick buck." Vulcan smirked. "But it is for the greater good of Daten City…"

"I'm glad you understand. A hero's gotta do what a hero's gotta do, right?" Hikari said.

"Yer right, kid. If I weren't so busy being Daten City's number one athlete, I'd happily join your team. Unless…" Vulcan scratched his chin. "I got it! You give me your digits and I can offer you advice; whether it be on physical training or the word on the street."

"Are you serious? The Vulcan aiding us on our quest?" Hikari grinned.

"I gotta act my part, somehow. Besides, if I help you vanquish the darkness, I'll be the talk of the town for generations to come! So if there's any juicy gossip that might pique your interest, I'll be sure to give you a visit! I assume you two are crashing at the church, right?"

"That's right."

"Sweet! I'd love to stay and chat some more, but I think the paparazzi are on their way to interview me. Good luck on your quest, boys!" Vulcan farewelled.

"Thanks, Vulcan! It's been a pleasure meeting ya!"

"Good luck on those interviews, mister! You're gonna ace it!" Teruo added. "Hey look, there's Volt!"

"Heh. Figured he'd stick around. Alright, let's find a way to get these coins back to homebase." Hikari said. The siblings were about to regroup with Volt before the coinage was teleported by a holy beam of light, followed by a meteorite rocketing through the hole in the ceiling.

CRASH!

The Kiryus turned around. "What the hell?" Hikari wondered, slowly approaching the small crater. Upon closer inspection, it was a stone tablet. "Yo, Teruo! Volt! Take a look at this!" Hikari called out.

"Careful! It could still be hot!" Teruo warned.

"Hey-o! What's the hubbub about?" Volt scampered on the scene. "Woah. What is that?"

"That's what I'm about to find out…" Hikari carefully picked up the tablet. The background featured a four-crossed wheel. The corners of the tablet were adorned with jewels. "Hold on, there's something written on it…"

'To attain salvation is to seek divinity. For if one is engulfed by the abyss, they will forever seek destruction and chaos. Let your vigilant souls guide you on your quest to restore balance to this mortal plane.'

"Huh. I wonder what that means…" Volt pondered.

"Whatever it means, we must be on the right track to stopping the dark mastermind behind all this." Hikari smirked. "Alright, men. Let's head back to the church. Wait 'til the girls hear about our dance with danger!"

"You guys go on without me. Gotta let the fam know I made it back in one piece." Volt insisted.

"I gotta admit, today was a blast! Even if we did almost die." Teruo said.

"I knew you'd come around to professional sports. I'll get to booking the next big event as soon as I can!" Volt grinned, wagging his tail. "It's good to have friends like you."

"Likewise." Hikari smiled. "Aight, catch ya on the flipside!" The siblings went back to the church as they were beginning to unlock the secrets of the dark curse. However, they forgot one of Kyurem's remnants; the DNA Splicer. Which was promptly picked up by a ghost Murkrow. The spooky corvid took its treasure and flew into the distance…

At an evil base deep within West Hollywood…

Akihiro felt a familiar chill as he stepped into the dark office, a shadowy aura surrounding him. The aura emanated from his master who stood across the room.

"L-Lord Tetsuya…" Akihiro kneeled. "It is my pleasure to report that thanks to your influence, the ice titan was led down the path of darkness. The experiment was a success, sir! H-However…"

"You didn't bring the titan?" Tetsuya rasped. All that could be seen of Tetsuya were his crimson eyes and a silhouette which resembled an umbrous wizard. "I heard church bells in the distance. Don't tell me you already lost Kyurem to that oversized lizard…"

"S-Sir! I thought the monster would demolish Vulcan!"

"You dullard! You should have been more attentive! Kyurem would've been a valuable asset in our war against Heaven!" Tetsuya chided.

CAW! CAW!

A ghost Murkrow flew into the office; the exact one which carried the DNA splicers. It landed on Tetsuya's shoulder, handing him the device. "Oh? You brought back my splicers…" Tetsuya chuckled, taking his prize and petting the bird. He inspected the splicers. "I can use the genetic data from Kyurem's tissues to create a copy; one that is indomitable and capable of bringing Heaven to its knees…"

"Wanna know a secret? Rawk!" The Murkrow squawked. "The reason why Kyurem was defeated was because a pair of Axews stepped in to save Vulcan, giving him the chance to destroy the ghost!"

Akihiro stepped back in horror. "I-Impossible…"

Tetsuya clenched his claws. "Confound those rebellious Axews! The light has blinded them if they believe they can get in the way of my quest to free Daten City from Heaven's shackles!"

"I dearly apologize, Lord Tetsuya. I have underestimated those meddlesome Kiryu siblings…" Akihiro bowed.

"Akihiro, do you remember why I sent you to corrupt Kyurem?"

"I-In order to demonstrate Daten City the true power of darkness?"

"You're partially correct. While it is just to teach mortals the superiority of shadows, it is crucial that I am able to enshroud a divine being's heart in darkness. Thanks to my knowledge in arcane magic, I have already planted the seeds of darkness within Daten City's Pokemon; although I have to rely on the individual themselves to turn to the dark side. If I so desire, I can instantly corrupt the same individual but that requires vast amounts of energy. In order to turn a legendary beast such as Kyurem into a ghost, it required the energy of countless souls. Therefore, it takes even more energy to create a shadow; the ultimate form of darkness."

"What Pokemon did you have in mind, sir?"

"One whose power will allow me to conquer Daten City; A divine being who would surpass even my own might."

"Fascinating! I am proud to contribute to your noble cause, Lord Tetsuya…"

"Your unwavering loyalty to darkness is why you're my right-hand man. While you were out, I managed to capture another asset to my cause." Tetsuya snapped his fingers, bringing forth Latias and Latios. The dragons were ensnared by dark chains.

"H-Hey! Let us go, you monster!" The struggling Latias shouted.

"What is the meaning of all this?! What do you have planned for us?!" Latios protested.

"The Eon Duo? Sir, how did you manage to trap them?" Akihiro asked.

"I have my methods…" Tetsuya replied. "I thought I could use 'eyes in the sky', as they say in Daten City. Under my control, Latias and Latios would attack anything that dares enter my territory."

"Aren't aircraft an invaluable source of souls?"

"Precisely. They're like cans of sardines; packed with nutritious energy for my ambitions."

Latias panicked. "What?! There's no way we're gonna be your undertakers!"

"Is that so? Who's going to stop me?" Tetsuya mocked, grabbing Latias' jaw.

"Unhand my partner, fiend! Or I'll… I'll–" Latios snarled.

"You'll unleash your psychic powers onto me? Try all you want, my everlasting darkness protects me from your worthless telekinesis. But enough of your incessant whining, it is time to serve your purpose as the harbingers of darkness!" Tetsuya opened his palm, forming a ball of darkness. He then shot Latios, trapping him inside a crimson bubble.

"Darling!" Latias shrieked right before being trapped herself.

"And now…" Tetsuya enshrouded the bubbles in darkness. He then closed his hands, commanding the bubbles to shrink rapidly and crush the dragons inside. What was left were their souls; compacted into shadowy Soul Dews that fit snugly in Tetsuya's palms.

"Spectacular display, my lord!" Akihiro said.

"Do you expect anything less? As for you, Akihiro. You must seek out the Demon Sisters and take them under your wing."

"S-Scanty and Kneesocks, sir?"

Tetsuya nodded. "It is the only way you have a chance against the Kiryu brothers and those irksome Anarchy Sisters. I can also use their expertise on how to win the war against Heaven…"

"As you wish. I'll make you proud, Lord Tetsuya!" Akihiro vowed, heading out the door. "But there is one thing I must warn you about…"

"Oh? Do tell."

"I'm afraid that the Anarchy Sisters aren't the only angels in Daten City… Reports have sighted a new angel, one that seems to have originated from a foreign world…"

"Tch. Curse those Kiryu Brothers… Now they're attracting angels from other realms! No matter. My new soldiers should make quick work of that so-called messenger of the gods." Tetsuya chuckled. "I appreciate your tip, Akihiro. Now go. Strengthen your forces and spread the word of darkness!" Akihiro simply nodded and ran off to enact his duty, leaving Tetsuya to check his stone chest. He opened it and took out a large, red chain. "Looks like it's just you and me, my precious…" Tetsuya stated. He waved his hand over the chain, infusing it with collected souls. A dark crystal formed on one of the links. "You still have a long way to go, but once you've consumed enough souls you will be the key to victory for the Dark Revolution… Only then shall Heaven bow down to the might of darkness!" Tetsuya cackled, placing the chain back in its chest. Only time will tell if his revolution will come to fruition…

To be Continued…