Pokémon Radiant Sun


Short author's note. Because chapter is long. We've got one more of these super-long chapters before normalcy happens, folks! Strap in, because this one is wild.

Shoutout to those who have reviewed since the last update, which includes SomeCallItKye, BraviaryScout, Oragonking, Boy Knight, SonicIKE, Anasazi Darkmoon, a new Guest reviewer known as TooMuchFreeTime, and a new review known as Aerithmo. Thanks for the support and feedback, folks! It's super ethical! (Pardon the random Saints Row The Third reference)

For the sake of the chapter title, I'm saying this now. Amber Fontaine's official battle theme for this story is "Enter the Darkness" from Kingdom Hearts: Birth By Sleep. Having that play during her fight scenes makes them more epic, and it's what I've been listening to during her fight scenes for a very long time. It's also the inspiration behind the chapter title! So it's recommended that you listen to it!

Enjoy.


Chapter 88: Enter the Darkness


Petalburg Woods


Many Years Ago...


Charlie Dawson grinned as he avoided a Flamethrower by sliding across the ground, clutching his hat as he stood up again. Charlie pointed at the man ahead of him, an escaped convict from the Rustboro Jail, as his Torkoal let out a cry. All around them the trees were burning, a futile effort from the convict to distract and cover his tracks. He had already hospitalized four people during his flight from Rustboro City. Dawson wouldn't let him hurt another one.

"Smokescreen!" Charlie barked as he dashed forward, becoming quickly obscured by black cloud of smoke that engulfed the battlefield that was the clearing they had encountered the convict in. The man in question growled in annoyance, his Magcargo bubbling beside him.

"Stay alert. He-" the convict began to say before Dawson suddenly burst out of the smoke and jammed a dagger into the man's shoulder. The man staggered backwards, allowing Dawson to snatch the Poké Ball out of his hands and easily return the Magcargo. Dawson whirled around and kicked the man to the ground, grinning.

"So...Chris Handsworth. Recent escapee from the Rustboro Jail. Convicted of four counts of murder, five counts of rape, and just being a general douchebag. Yeah, kicking your ass was fun." Dawson remarked as his Torkoal sauntered forward, amused by Dawson's posturing.

"Fuck you, kid...I'll get out again. And I'll kill those brats that put me in jail! Just you wai-" Chris began to say before Charlie casually kicked him in the stomach, making him cry out. The man easily held the convict in place with his boot held against the man's throat. True to his word, Charlie had grown into a strong man capable of standing against terrible people who wanted to hurt others.

"No. No you won't. See, I've dealt with guys like you. People who just hurt others because they can. Because they're able to slip away. How is any of that just? Well, I'll answer for you, asshole…" Dawson raised a finger, grinning widely. "It isn't. Which is why I get to take care of douchebags like you!"

"You...little…" Chris had another moment before Dawson punched him in the face, knocking the man out. Dawson easily scooped the convict up in his arms and began to walk out of the forest, walking along the path that would lead back to Rustboro City.

"People like you don't deserve to just live your lives out like this. Not after the people you've hurt. You shouldn't get that second chance to live your life like that. You're going to stay someplace where you can't hurt anyone ever again." Dawson muttered, scowling as he marched through the forest, returning Torkoal.

As the man walked along the path, knowing it'd be a full day's walk to get to Rustboro, his mind began to drift.

"One asshole at a time...I've been doing this for a while now. Tracking down bad guys, capturing them and taking the reward money. And a lot of time doing it for free, or just giving the money back to the victims. Six years now…" Charlie remarked quietly, talking to himself. He didn't mind the habit, as it kept him sane during his long walks through the wilderness.

"Thing is, no matter how many of these clowns I take care of, there's always gonna be more scumbags hurting people. It feels like there's no end to these creeps." Charlie Dawson remarked, shaking his head. "Just another breakout. Just another robber. Another killer. Just the same thing, day after day. There's always gonna be another one, no matter how hard I work at it...and there's always going to be another Team Aqua...wait..." Charlie trailed off, his steps slowing as his face paled.

"There's always going to be another Team Aqua…" Charlie repeated, the horror of the statement hitting him hard. Dawson dropped the convict to the ground, the revelation washing over him like ice.

"I could keep doing this forever...but it's not gonna stop people like Team Aqua. It's not going to save people's lives when another madman tries to destroy the world." Charlie whispered, shutting his eyes and falling to his knees, feeling a sense of hopelessness set in.

After all, Team Galactic had tried to literally end the world a few years back. And just the year before Team Plasma tried to take control of an entire region. Hell, they actually succeeded for a few hours. Just as he had said, another group like Team Aqua had tried to take over the world and was stopped in the nick of time by some kid. Not the adults that were supposed to protect this world. But innocent children who could have gotten hurt. Why did society have to rely on children to take care of their own problems?

"And the Champions couldn't do a damn thing…Tch." Dawson muttered, getting to his feet now, the will to keep going filling him again. The man scooped up the criminal off of the ground, sighed after a moment, and then continued his walk down the path. He quickened his pace, hoping to be rid of his burden by nightfall so he could get back to work. This line of thinking did make him wonder if there was any point to what he was doing. But on the other hand...what else could he do? Dawson knew he had to become stronger and take down as many crooks as he could. Maybe it wasn't making much of a difference, but he'd protect his home with everything he had.

And then...someday…He'd confront Team Aqua. And Team Magma. The thought of them made Charlie's blood boil with anger. The men and women of those two groups had slowly improved their reputation over the years, aiding in many investigations and studies into how to improve the environments of Pokémon and the understanding of their natural habitats. Despite this...Dawson had a bad feeling.

"Someday, I'll get them back. For everyone that was lost...For those who drowned in that storm. I promise you..."

"Justice will be swift."


"You know Cynthia...I'm honestly surprised you've lasted this long. I guess you're tougher than I thought." Dawson remarked as he flicked through several screens, seeing how the battle was shaping up. The man muttered a few commands to the Peons in the field, all the while vaguely observing Cynthia as her body shook.

"I really hate doing stuff like this. I mean, I got pretty good at it after dealing with so many criminals in Hoenn, but I hate this kind of thing. Because you're not a criminal. You're not even a bad person. You're just a shitty Champion. If you just told me what I need to know, we can end this right now." Dawson said cheerily, looking up from his screen to look at Cynthia. "Is it sad that even though you're bleeding and half frozen, I still find you absolutely beautiful? Or am I just weird?"

"You're...j-just weird." Cynthia responded, shaking slightly as she managed a shuddering laugh. "But it's...n-not the oddest compliment I've... ever been given."

"Fair enough. You're taking this better than expected, though." Dawson remarked, catching sight of Tapu Lele as it began to attack their forces on the screens. Dawson winced as he saw lines of Peons go down. That thing would need to be stopped ASAP. He hoped Amber would be able to put that thing down.

"B-because...I remember you, C-charlie. It took a w-while, but I do remember you. And who you became. Y-you used your pain to become a stronger p-person. Someone that Hoenn could look up t-t-to as a hero for the n-next big disaster that came their way." Cynthia said to Dawson, who's eyes widened in surprise. He hadn't expected praise from the Champion he was supposed to torture.

"P-people saw you as their hero. A native-born Hoennian becoming stronger in the f-face of t-tragedy. Steven said once that he admired you for your strength. Not many people can lose someone they love...and use it to achieve a d-dream. N-not like you did. Y-you wanted to become s-s-strong enough to protect p-people. You said it...in interviews. I saw t-them, e-even from Sinnoh. And you succeeded in that dream." Cynthia continued, her breathing ragged as she tried to keep her voice steady. Despite the freezing cold and the pain she had been subjected too, the Champion held strong.

"Dawson...what I'm trying to say is that I'm sorry." Daswon's body sagged in surprise, with the man shaking as if struck by a physical blow and blinked several times, looking dazed. He simply hadn't been expecting that.

"You...huh?" Dawson asked, stepping away from the hologram-screens and walking up to Cynthia. The Champion slowly looked up at him, her eyes full of tears from the pain she had been subjected too.

'I'm...sorry. Me and Steven thought it was...the r-right thing to do. T-t-team Aqua and Team Magma had to be reigned in. They k-k-knew so much about the world because of their studies. W-we were able to use their k-knowledge for so much good. We k-k-knew back then that keeping them out of j-jail and focused on helping others was the b-best course of action. In t-the end...We did what we thought was b-b-best for everyone." Cynthia said to Dawson, who's mouth twisted into a scowl. "We k-knew we were ignoring what everyone w-wanted. B-but we did what we thought was best for the region...You have to understand that."

"I do understand that. They both did make many contributions to the world." Dawson nodded in agreement, but after a moment he held up a finger as he grinned at Cynthia. "But guess what? That doesn't make what they did okay. That doesn't mean that they shouldn't have been able to rest their heads down at night and sleep soundly, despite the blood on their hands. I don't forgive them...And I don't forgive you for helping Steven absolve them of their crimes." Dawson growled, picking up his knife from the floor as his smile vanished.

"You've b-become obsessed with revenge, Charlie...Not j-justice." Cynthia breathed, shutting her eyes in resignation. Dawson's mouth twitched into a smirk, despite his anger.

"Perhaps. But I'm following my heart. I can't let others go through another team's harebrained scheme to end the world. Even if people have to suffer before the end comes, that's a price I'm willing to pay. We will end the suffering forever. What's a few years of pain? Cipher will stamp out all the other evil in the world until only Cipher remains. We'll keep everyone safe. That's...all I ever wanted." Dawson said quietly as he flipped the knife in his hands, gripping it tightly. Cynthia looked up at him again, smirking at him. Dawson jerked back for a second time, completely thrown off by that response.

"Are y-you trying to convince me...or yourself?" Cynthia asked, her eyes cold and hard. Dawson remained silent for a moment before grinning at her.

"I think it's time for a little more pain. After all, I still haven't learned what I want to know." Dawson said as the knife in his hand began to glow brightly. Cynthia shivered from both the cold and fear as Dawson stepped forward, his smile widening as he drove the blade into the woman yet again.


"Dragon Pulse!" Kiawe yelled out, with his trusty Charizard releasing a draconic beam of energy that smashed into Shadow Heatran. The Lava Dome Pokémon screeched in fury, releasing another blast of darkness at the command of Mask. The man himself remained silent, save for the commands he issued to the powerful beast in front of him. The trio had been battling for the better part of ten minutes, and each of their Pokémon were sporting plenty of damage at this point.

"Stone Edge. Don't let it get anywhere near me." Mask ordered the monster clinging to the walls. Shadow Heatran snarled, dropping down to the ground and creating several pillars that shot out of the ground and slammed into Charizard and Tsareena, forcing both Pokémon back. Mallow was amazed at how powerful of a Trainer this Cipher Admin was. Holding off two Trial Captains on your own was a feat even the Kahunas would have struggled greatly with.

"Kiawe, we've got to come up with a plan here!" Mallow called to her other best friend. The young man nodded, his calm face not showing any signs of stress despite the very difficult battle they were facing.

"If I recall, Heatran is a Fire and Steel-type Pokémon. Let me handle the brunt of the battling, while you support me." Kiawe said to Mallow, who nodded after a moment.

"Tsareena, use Leaf Storm!" Mallow commanded her prized Pokémon, who swung a foot out and released a massive barrage of leaves that slashed and tore at Shadow Heatran, though it didn't do much to it.

"Shadow End!" Mask shouted, thrusting his hand aside as his cloak fluttered beside him. Both Mallow and Kiawe flinched as Shadow Heatran screamed in fury, the darkness surrounding it exploding outward for several moments before it charged at Tsareena, ramming into the Fruit Pokémon and sending it hurtling across the building and into the wall with a sickening crunch.

"Tsareena!" Mallow cried out in worry. Kiawe glanced at that for a moment, but then took notice of how Shadow Heatran was snarling and wincing in pain. Such a powerful attack had to have had some sort of recoil damage. And Kiawe would exploit that.

"Charizard, let's counterattack! Aerial Ace!" Kiawe barked, making Mask turn his attention to the other Captain.

"Shadow Fire!" Mask ordered, pointing at Charizard. Kiawe grinned as the shadowy fireball raced towards them, even as Charizard soared towards it with breakneck speed.

"Swoop low to dodge, then hit it with Brick Break!" Kiawe commanded, with his Charizard dropping down several feet to easily dodge the fireball before drawing back his fist as it glowed white, delivering a powerful chop to Shadow Heatran's head. The monster screeched in agony, staggering backwards as Kiawe grinned. Mask was undeterred, however.

"Magma Storm!" the Admin called, with Shadow Heatran releasing a swirling blast of flames that slammed into Charizard and sent the Flame Pokémon flying backwards with a roar of pain. Charizard hit the ground hard, snarling softly in pain as it rubbed its burns.

"Charizard! Get out of there!" Kiawe warned his Pokémon, but he was too slow to stop what happened next.

"Iron Head!" Mask called, with Heatran roaring before quickly charging forward, ramming into Charizard and sending it flying across the room and onto the ground in a heap. Kiawe scowled as his Pokémon slowly rose, panting from exhaustion. This Shadow Pokémon of Cipher's was quite formidable indeed. Kiawe caught sight of Mallow's Tsareena limping back towards them, with Mallow wearing a devious grin. Kiawe could tell she had a plan.

"Kiawe, cover me! Distraction plan time!" Mallow cried out as Tsareena crouched, as if preparing herself. Kiawe blinked, and then smirked, knowing what Mallow was up to.

"Alright. Kiawe and Mallow's Fried Rice Special coming up!" Kiawe barked, throwing his hand out. Charizard snorted and let out a powerful roar before sending a Fire Spin at Shadow Heatran, who weathered the attack with a hiss.

"Come on, now. You shouldn't make me wait for the good stuff. I'm old, damn it. Even if I do look great for my age...Not that you brats will ever see my beautiful face." Mask taunted them, tapping the metallic mask covering his face. Mask was surprised when Charizard suddenly shot forward, flying through its flames to suddenly pick up Shadow Heatran.

"What are you doing!?" Mask demanded, taking a step back as he watched Charizard do several loops in the air with a pained expression on his face.

"Seismic Toss!" Kiawe bellowed, throwing a hand down as Charizard hurled the Lava Dome Pokémon into the floor, creating an explosion of force. Mask stared at the downed form of his Shadow Pokémon in surprise, even as it slowly rose from the ground.

"Take care of that damn lizard! Shadow Fire!" Mask bellowed, though before the Shadow Pokémon could finish the attack another shout made Mask reconsider that action.

"Tsareena, use Hi Jump Kick!"

Mask turned back towards Mallow, though he was too late to stop the Fruit Pokémon from kicking Shadow Heatran hard enough to send it flying across the room, where it slammed into the wall and crashed onto the ground, groaning in pain before finally passing out, unable to withstand more abuse from the Captains. Mask stared at the downed form of his Shadow Heatran, amazed, before silently returning it. Mask seemed to think for a moment...And then he began to laugh.

Mallow and Kiawe exchanged a worried look as Mask began to cackle with delight, his distorted voice making it even creepier. Suddenly the man straightened up and adjusted his cloak as if nothing had happened.

"Not too bad! Taking down something like my Shadow Heatran is to be commended. But only to be expected from you Captains." Mask said to them, chuckling after a moment as he clipped the Poké Ball to his belt. The man crossed his arms for a moment, and then said, "But you two are only delaying what is to come. Even if you somehow managed to stop me and take down the barrier, then what? The day is saved?"

"Uh...kinda?" Mallow replied, tilting her head in confusion. Kiawe scoffed, eyes narrowed at the Admin. He noticed then how Charizard and Tsareena were about to drop, shaking with exhaustion. This battle had taken its toll on them.

"What this man is implying is that even if we take him down and lower the barrier so that we can help Cynthia, we can't stop the attack." Kiawe said quietly, clenching his fists.

"Correct. Admin Dawson is leading the charge on this one. And I sincerely doubt any of you brats can force him to stop this attack. We'll either succeed, or we'll be reducing this town to rubble. It's ultimately his call. I am but a distraction, just like our dear Amber is right now. We don't matter." Mask explained, making Kiawe and Mallow exchange a look.

"Not that this isn't interesting...But why are you telling us this?" Mallow asked slowly..

"Because, my dear…" Mask pulled out a jet-black Poké Ball that was actually glowing with heat, the air around it shimmering from the inferno that dwelled within the capsule. Kiawe and Mallow instinctively took a step back as their Pokémon braced themselves. They felt something very, very wrong coming from that sphere in Mask's hand. The man himself tossed the capsule up and down a few times before tossing it high into the air. A shockwave of heat and fire erupted from the ball, forcing Kiawe and Mallow back several steps as some sort of creature appeared from the Poké Ball and landed on the ground, showered in a swirling darkness that burned dark, darker, yet darker.

"I don't think you kids will be living long enough to tell anyone...Umbral Torkoal, destroy these children."


"Sacred Sword!" Ollie barked as Aegislash continued to block gunfire from Naps, who was snarling at the trio. Without a sound, the Royal Sword Pokémon rushed forward and slashed Shadow Haxorus as it tried to tear apart Laura's Rapidash as it pranced around the field, firing blasts of flame. The Axe Jaw Pokémon was forced back with a roar, though that didn't stop it from suddenly releasing a concussive blast of darkness that made Aegislash scream as it floated backwards, shaking in pain. Naps pressed a finger to his chin, muttering something just loud enough for them to hear.

"I need backup on sector 4. Agent Quill, the Queen and the Prince are all in one spot. Converge." Naps spoke into his mic, even as the Peons beside him returned their injured Pokémon and were dragged into their shadows, leaving Naps alone against the three of them. Moments later, three Peons stepped out of Naps' shadow, glaring at them. Each one of them called out a Shadow Pokémon. A Weavile, a Magmortar, and a Blissey respectively.

"Take them down! Shadow Haxorus, Dragon Claw!" Naps barked as the beast shot forward, hissing as it raked its clawing claws against Laura's trusty steed as it charged forward. The horse neighed in pain, and at Laura's command hit the Shadow Pokémon with a Stomp to the face that made it stagger backward.

"Laura, Sun, keep the Peon's Pokémon at bay! I've got Naps!" Ollie called out, scowling as his Dodrio shot forward with Aerial Ace, but leaping back to avoid a massive Dragon Pulse. It was clear that despite only using one Pokémon, Naps had a very powerful Haxorus on his side and was quite skilled using it.

"Penny, Oliver, support Mom! Pluck! Finn, get that Magmortar with Scald! Brago, Helping Hand!" Sun commanded his team, who leapt into action. Ollie smirked as he watched the boy act without hesitation and focused his attention on the three men ahead of him.

"Shadow Claw, Aegislash!" Ollie called out, throwing a hand forward as his Dodrio charged forward. "Tri Attack!"

Aegislash rushed forward, slashing at Shadow Haxorus, but was forced back by a Flamethrower from Shadow Magmortar. The Royal Sword Pokemon groaned as it slipped into its Shield Forme, blocking the attack after a moment while Dodrio blasted the Axe Jaw Pokémon with a Tri Attack. Meanwhile, Laura called her Rapidash back to her side and called out her Blastoise, with both Pokémon preparing to square off against the three Pokémon the Peons had sent out.

"Blastoise, Hydro Pump! Rapidash, Flamethrower!" Laura called out. The two Pokémon released their attacks as the other Pokémon spread out, releasing a barrage of attacks their way. Sun grit his teeth as explosions rang out from around them, creating a thick smoke that made it hard to see. He was aware of Penny and Oliver darting around the steam that had kicked up, along with several screams of pain from the various Pokémon within the brawl.

"Use Dragon Dance!" Naps bellowed through the steam, making Sun wince. That move was infamous for a reason, being able to increase a Pokémon's speed and attack power. They needed to end this fight sooner rather than later.

"Finn, come back. Brago, use Flame Burst!" Sun called out. Brago took a few moments before he nodded, releasing a fireball into the steam and helping dispel a little of it. Laura's Rapidash shot forward, releasing a torrent of flames at the Shadow Blissey while Shadow Magmortar released two jet-black fireballs that struck the Fire Horse Pokémon in the side and sent it tumbling to the ground. The Magmortar then took aim at Laura Smiles.

"Mom!" Sun screamed as the Shadow Pokémon fired at the woman. Laura cried out in surprise, but was jerked to the side by Ollie and the flames passed by harmlessly.

"Stay alert, Laura. We've still got to settle our battle." Olllie remarked distractedly, smiling at her for a moment before focusing on Naps, who was proving to be a skilled battler. "You really have improved, Naps. Our reports didn't mention anything about you being able to fight like this."

"The IP can't know everything, Agent Quill. There's a lot about me they don't know." Naps said with a grin, throwing a hand forward. "Shadow Ravage!"

"Block with Sacred Sword!" Ollie barked as Aegislash rushed forward, trading strikes with Shadow Haxorus before floating back with a groan. Ollie suddenly dashed forward, wearing a confident grin as he ran forward, with his Aegislash and Dodrio running alongside him.

"Wait, what-" Naps yelped, surprise when Ollie suddenly tackled him to the ground. Naps and Ollie grappled for a moment with Naps grabbing the other man by the neck. Ollie punched Naps in the face repeatedly, but it was hard to get a good hit on someone wearing a very protective helmet.

"Dragon Claw! Tear them apart! Go!" Naps barked at Shadow Haxorus, who let out a feral roar before charging at Dodrio. The two Pokémon began to peck and slaw at each other, though Dodrio soon jumped back and began to fire repeated Tri Attacks at the lumbering dragon as it slashed wildly at him. Meanwhile, Ollie had kicked Naps off of him, grinning as he panted. Naps rubbing his bleeding lips, scowling.

"No one ever suspects that someone's just gonna tackle them. It's hilarious every time I do it." Ollie chuckled, cracking his knuckles.

"Screw you, man. I'm gonna feel this tomorrow."

"I'm sorry, did you say something? It sounded a lot like 'I'm a Cipher bitch, please punch me.'" Ollie mocked the man, as he snapped his fingers. Aegislash appeared in front of Haxorus, using its shield to bash the dragon over the head using Iron Head, knocking it backwards.

"God...I hate you people." Naps grumbled, drawing his sidearm and firing it Ollie, who jumped to the side and drew his own sidearm, firing much more accurately. However, the bullets did little against the reinforced body armor of Cipher, but Ollie did manage to shoot Naps in the hand to disarm him, sending the gun clattering down the street. Naps scowled and pointed a finger at Ollie. "Shadow Rush!"

"Brago, Flame Burst! Finn, use Hypnosis!" Sun called as Penny and Oliver battled the Magmortar, with Laura's Blastoise tanking a Shadow Rush from Shadow Blissey and a Night Slash from Shadow Weavile. Brago released a series of fireballs that struck down on the other side, hitting Weavile and making it snarl in pain while slightly annoying the other too (One was basically immune to the attack while the other had so much health it literally didn't matter). What did matter was Finn hitting Blissey with Hypnosis, making it stumble backwards before falling asleep.

"Nice work, sweetie. Blastoise, Mega Punch!" Laura barked, throwing out a hand as the Shellfish Pokémon drew back his fist and slammed it into the face of Shadow Magmortar. The Blast Pokémon hit the ground hard, fainting after such a powerful blow. The owner of the Pokémon in question swore loudly, but was thrown off when Oliver kicked him to the ground, throwing leaves at Shadow Blissey while Penny smacked into it repeatedly with Brick Break.

"Rapidash, Megahorn!" Laura called out, punching forward as her trusty steed slowly rose to his feet. The Fire Horse Pokémon snorted, lowering his horn and galloping forward as it extended outwards and began to glow brightly. Rapidash stabbed its horn into Shadow Blissey, sending it flying backwards onto the ground. But still it slept on.

"How much health does that thing have?" Oliver asked incredulously.

"From what I know, these things are monstrously hard to put down! Keep fighting!" Penny shouted, swooping low with an angry expression on her face...no, wait. That was her regular face.

Sun grit his teeth and yelled, "Echoed Voice! Razor Leaf! Flame Burst! Scald!"

All of Sun's Pokémon attacked at the same time, pelting the Wall that was Shadow Blissey, though they were quickly scattered when an Ice Beam shot towards the birds in the air and a Shadow Weavile began to slash and hack at Finn and Brago. The canine backpedaled with a horrified look on his face while Finn leapt elegantly out of sight, grinning widely as he sprayed the Weavile with Scald.

"Blastoise, Ice Beam! Rapidash, Flamethrower!" Laura called, glancing over at where her child was battling Shadow Weavile. The Pokémon in question suddenly dashed at Sun, only for a sword and shield to spring up and intercept the attack, a shimmering barrier forming.

"Stop jumping in to help! It's annoying!" Naps barked as he ducked under a kick from Ollie, only for the man to grab him by the head and ram it into his knee. Ollie spun around and kicked Naps in the chest, sending him to the ground.

"Nah. Don't think I will." Ollie replied slightly as he shot Sun a grin. Sun smiled gratefully, but then looked back to where Blastoise and Rapidash were now fending off a speeding Shadow Weavile, which was slashing and tearing at them with near-blinding speed. Blastoise began firing off Hydro Pumps at the ground, one of which managed to catch the Sharp Claw Pokémon and send it crashing to the ground.

"We need to wrap this up." Laura said tersely, looking worried as the Shadow Weavile began to engage with them again, this time using Shadow Break to knock out Blastoise. Laura returned her faithful Pokémon, looking worried. Sun glanced between Shadow Weavile and Shadow Haxorus, and he realized what he could do to help.

"Cover me, Mom! Oliver, let's get ready for a Z-Move!" Sun called as he began striking a series of movements. Laura stepped in front of her child, even as the Shadow Haxorus struck down Dodrio with a Shadow End, sending the bird crashing into a light-post. Laura grabbed a Poké Ball and called out her Meowth, who let out a small cry.

"Alright, sweetie. Let's get some payback!" Laura said as her Meowth crouched low, with Weavile sprinting towards it. "Play Rough!"

"Aww, and what's that sweet little kitty cat gonna do?" the Cipher Peon laughed mockingly, punching outward. "Use Night Slash!"

The Sharp Claw Pokémon lunged towards Meowth, changing direction, but was surprised to find that as it slashed at the Scratch Cat Pokémon, Meowth easily dodged the swift swipe of Weavile and began to pummel the other Pokémon with glowing claws, creating puffs of white smoke with every super-effective strike. Meowth knocked away the Shadow Weavile with a skillful kick, which allowed Penny to deliver a surprise Brick Break that floored the Sharp Claw Pokémon.

"Don't underestimate a mother who's lost her patience. I may have lost my Partner, Padma, but I made sure her child was more than strong enough to stand up to you monsters." Laura said coldly to the Cipher members, remembering her fallen Persian. "Rapidash, use Flare Blitz to finish it off!"

The burning horse charging forward as whirling blue flames surrounded it, allowing it to slam into Weavile and sending it flying backwards into a crumpled heap next to Shadow Magmotar and Shadow Blissey. All three Peons took several steps back while Naps scowled, still locked in combat with Ollie.

"Hey Naps!" Sun called out. The Captain turned his attention to Sun, even as both him and Oliver began to glow with energy. The slight distraction allowed Aegislash to send a Shadow Ball right into the face of the Shadow Haxorus, knocking it back another few steps as it heaved with exhaustion.

"Oliver, channel Razor Leaf...and use Bloom Doom!" Sun shouted, his Z-Ring flaring up as Oliver let out a hoot. Their energies combined, allowing their souls to meld for a brief moment to create this incredible power. Oliver screeched as a swirling green aura of power surged around him and flowers bloomed around the owl, with the energy shooting upwards into the sky and drawing everyone's attention to it. To Cipher's horror, the attack shot back down towards them, exploding outward and knocking out not only the three Cipher Peons, but doing enough damage to Shadow Haxorus to where it was easily knocked out by one final strike from Aegislash. The Shadow Haxorus groaned as it finally slumped onto the ground, riddled with injuries and with blood leaking from the various wounds it had acquired over the long battle. Sun felt sorry for it.

"You little...Tch. Damn Z-Power. Master Borlath warned us about it…" Naps muttered, taking a step back.

"What a mess...I'll get you for this." Naps spat at them with a glare, grabbing Shadow Haxorus' Poké Ball from his belt to return the beast. However, what he didn't expect was for a glowing purple ball to suddenly hit his prized Pokémon, sucking it inside with a strange rushing sound. Naps whirled around in horror just in time for Aria to punch the man in the face, dropping him to the ground as the Snag Ball containing Shadow Haxorus shook. Three shakes and a click later and Aria grinned victoriously.

"Snag confirmed. So what did I miss?" Aria asked, walking forward as the Snag Ball flew into her hand.

"I thought you were battling my Dad." Sun asked, confused. Aria scowled at that.

"Yeah. I was. He simply teleported away with Deoxys after I started yelling at him. Then I got jumped by some dorks. It's been a really annoying day." Aria sighed, shaking her head. "I can't even use Shadow Moltres because it'll just add more chaos to this chaos."

"Last I heard, Hugh was looking for you." Sun mentioned to the Snagger, who grinned and put a hand on the boy's shoulder.

"Thanks. I'll meet up with him as soon as-" Aria was cut off by a flash of green light entering her vision, and then everything went white...


Aria was inside of the Battle Royal Dome. Inside she saw the evidence of some titanic battle having taken place just moments before, though a fog of sorts prevented the Snagger from seeing the sides of the stadium where some strange figures were lurking.

Sun was inside of the stadium, staring down Dawson as he pointed his hand-cannon at the boy. Sun's expression was one of defiance. It was almost awing to see such courage in someone so young. Sun spoke, but Aria couldn't hear the words that were said. But she could see the effect they had on Dawson.

Aria could see the conflicting emotions on his face. There was no insanity in those eyes, and Aria thought about her interactions with the man thus far. He definitely didn't seem crazy, like the other Cipher Admins. He seemed to treat this all as a job he'd rather not do, but saw it was something that needed to be done. Justice trembled in Dawson's hand as his eyes narrowed...but he couldn't pull the trigger. Not at the boy standing across from him, his expression one of absolute determination.

Aria could see plain as day that Dawson didn't want to shoot Sun. She could see the gun shaking in the man's hand as he stared at the brave boy in front of him. His eyes showing concern, fear, anger, shame and hurt. Aria saw it then, that Sun's words about the man were true. From this vision of the future, it allowed her to understand what was happening, somehow.

Much like Borlath, Dawson had been a good person once. But the horrors and evil of the world had twisted the man until he became the very thing he fought against. He was trying to help the world, but in a way that would ruin the lives of so many. But, there was still a sliver of hope for Dawson, unlike Borlath. Dawson could still be saved.

Dawson let out a scream of anguish before throwing Justice on the ground, unable to look Sun in the eyes any longer. Aria's eyes widened as Dawson dropped to his knees, throwing back his head in a wild laugh as Sun smiled at the man.

Aria knew then.

She knew that there was only one person who could save that man from himself, and end this fight for good.


Aria broke out of her trance and fell to one knee, clutching her head. It had been so long since her last episode, she had wondered if the ability had vanished. Regardless, Ollie helped the young woman to her feet with a concerned expression as Sun watched her worriedly.

"Are you okay, dear?" Laura asked, putting a hand on the woman's back. Aria nodded shakily before turning to a certain gray-eyed boy.

"Sun...You're the one who stops Dawson." Aria breathed, staring intensely at the boy.

"What? I...What did you see? Did you see the future with the time thing again?" Sun asked, with Aria grinning tiredly at the boy.

"I saw you and him talking inside of the dome. He...he couldn't do it. He tried to kill you, but he couldn't do it. Sun, you're right. About Dawson." Aria panted, shaking slightly.

"What do you mean?" Laura asked worriedly.

"Dawson...he's not all gone. I think Sun can get through to him. Dawson has already shown that he cared enough about Sun to defy direct orders from Borlath. He hasn't been involved with some of Cipher's worst crimes. I think Sun can get him to call this attack off. It's a long shot, but I think he can be reasoned with." Aria explained, and she instantly saw the effects of her words on Sun. His expression became one of absolute determination, just like in the vision. Aria wondered why she never saw the connection between Sun and Ashton before. The two of them were completely driven individuals who had a certain strength of heart. But while Ashton was fueled by hate and despair…

Sun was fueled by hope. And a genuine desire to help others, even if those people had done wrong in their lives. He had suffered, yes, but used that suffering to be a better person. The boy was strong, and given more time and experience would become a splendid Trainer. Or rather, a more splendid Trainer than he already was. Aria grinned as the boy adjusted his hat, returning Brago and Finn.

"Penny, Oliver, keep an eye out. We're going for that statue. Adrian's going to need some backup, and that's the only way to get to the Battle Royal Dome's battlefield with Cipher blocking the other exits." Sun said quietly, with the boy stepping forward to hug his surprised mother. "I'll be back soon."

"S-sun, hold on a minute." Laura began to say, but Sun looked up at his mother with an intense expression.

"Mom...please trust me. I can do this. Believe in me." Sun said to his mother, who looked conflicted. She clearly didn't want to send her little boy into the stadium, but on the other hand…

"Was there anyone else in that stadium besides Sun and Dawson?" Laura asked.

"No. It was just him. I think Sun and Dawson need to talk this out...I think that's what my vision was trying to tell me. The blasts of insight from the future are random and not always clear, but they've been helping me understand things I don't...And I understand that if we can make Dawson stop, then this mess goes away." Aria said to Laura, who sighed. The mother bent down and kissed Sun on the forehead.

"Then go. We'll try and keep them busy for you. Just please...be careful, sweetie." Laura said to her son, who nodded. The boy then began to run as fast as he could, even with his injured ribs making the experience painful. Penny and Oliver kept watch overhead, ready to attack if need be.

"He'll be fine. I'll have Braviary and Swellow run interference until he gets to that statue." Ollie remarked, calling out both of his birds. "Keep an eye on Sun. Make sure he gets inside the stadium alright."

Both birds chirped and soared after the boy, and Ollie turned to Laura with a smile. "Let him go, Laura. Sun seems to really think he can get through to Admin Dawson. Maybe he can. He's gotten really strong in the time he's been over here. You've seen this. Let him go, so that he can show the world how strong his heart really is and prove that father of his wrong. We can help him by helping clear his path and taking down as many Cipher goons as possible." Laura sighed as Ollie stopped speaking, but then punched Ollie in the shoulder and made the man yelp in pain.

"That was really cheesy. But you're right. If Adrian Battlestorm can't beat Dawson, maybe Sun can talk some sense into him. My little boy does have a habit of bringing out the best in people...And seeing good where others see bad." Laura said fondly, looking towards the stadium with some worry. She had to have hope that her child could talk some sense into Dawson and make him stop the attack. Sun may be an awkward child at times, but he did have his father's charisma and innate likability.

"Let's just do our part and help out the best we can." Ollie said, grinning at Laura. The woman smiled faintly at her old friend before nodding, and with that the two adults walked off, leaving Aria behind.

"What am I, chopped liver?" Aria asked, throwing up her hands in exasperation at being totally ignored. Right as she said those words, a loud screeching sound caught her attention and she turned around in time to see the unconscious Captain Naps getting scooped into the claws of an Aerodactyl. Aria called out her Jolteon and yelled, "Thunderbolt!"

"Ancient Power." Naps groaned, slowly looking up as the Aerodactyl took flight. The Fossil Pokémon launched a wave of glowing boulders at the duo, which served to help block the attack and allowed the Captain to fly high into the air and out of sight.

"Damn it…" Aria growled, clenching her fists.

"I doubt that will be the last we see of that one." Sophie the Jolteon said quietly, with Aria nodding in agreement after a beat. With a sigh, she went off in another direction to find Hugh, trying to ignore the strange wailing sound now echoing through the city and shoving down her frustration for another time.


Gladion didn't know quite what he expected when he got to the stadium. Maybe eat some overpriced food, talk a little with Demi, and get annoyed with Team Skull.

Instead...things got complicated.

Instead of doing any of that stuff, he found himself in the middle of a war zone. Criminals were attempting to put down anyone in their path, which included his little sister, Lillie. Gladion wouldn't have ever dreamed that he'd run into her again. At least not until he freed Type: Null from the limiter helmet and stopped his mother's evil plans. Oh yeah, he also ran into Lusamine again. Which was about as fun as he thought it would be.

And now he was running for his life, his sister tightly holding his had as they frantically made their way across the city. Gladion figured heading for the Thrifty Megamart was a smart plan, considering it was a far distance from everything else and was out of the way from the main city. However, he also had to deal with the occasional Cipher goon and help someone in their path.

"Golbat, Acrobatics!" Gladion shouted as he put himself in front of Lillie, throwing out a hand as the Bat Pokémon soared through the air, taking out a Ariados that was about to attack Korrina from behind. The skating Gym Leader gave Gladion a silly salute before speeding away, assisting Clemont as inventor took down two Cipher Peons at once with a Magnezone. Korrina sped forward and whirled around, kicking one of the two men so hard his helmet went flying off of his head and he crashed onto the ground senseless. The other Peon was so shocked that he didn't even try to stop the fist to the face Korrina gave him.

"Your extra training is really paying off. Those guys were wearing full armor, too." Clemont remarked, picking the helmet off of the ground. "This is state-of-the art, stuff. Years ahead of military-grade body armor."

Gladion averted his eyes when he caught sight of a Shadow Zebstrika that was terrorizing a female Trainer about his age who was trying to protect a Trainer who's team had fainted already. Gladion scowled, but pointed forward.

"Golbat, Toxic! Null, Crush Claw!" Gladion barked, gripping his arm tightly as his Pokémon charged forward. Golbat released a blast of purple liquid that struck the Thunderbolt Pokémon, making it neigh loudly in pain. The Cipher Peon controlling the beast whirled around, aiming a pistol at Gladion and firing. Type: Null reacted quicker, diving in front of Gladion and making the bullet bounce off of Type: Null's helmet. The monster headbutted the man to the ground before leaping at the Shadow Pokémon, swiping at it furiously.

"Shadow Rush!" the Peon barked. The Shadow Zebstrika reared on its legs and charged into Type: Null, hitting it hard enough to send the Synthetic Pokémon skidding backwards across the concrete with a pained growl. Gladion felt Lillie's grip on his hand tighten and he scowled further. Every second his sister was out in the open was a second more that she was in danger.

"Thunderbolt!" the Peon barked, with Gladion nearly smirking in response as he released Lillie's hand.

"Acrobatics to dodge, then Venoshock! Null, Aerial Ace!" Gladion commanded Golbat and Type: Null. The beast shot forward with a great burst of speed while Golbat swooped low to avoid the blast of lightning. Shadow Zebstrika was slammed backwards by Type: Null, easily allowing Golbat to follow up with Venoshock and put the Shadow Pokémon down.

Gladion marched over to the man still trying to get up and wrenched the weapon from his hand. He tossed the weapon to Golbat before Type: Null headbutted the man a second time, knocking him out. Gladion nodded and turned to Lillie, who was smiling fondly at him.

"You've really become talented, Gladion. Father would've been so excited watching you battle just then if he was here." Lillie said softly, her smile breaking into a grin. Gladion shrugged modestly, smiling a little as they continued making their way through the damaged city.

"I've had to get a lot stronger. Especially when it's just been me and Null against the world. But…" Gladion shrugged again, unable to come up with anything else. After not seeing each other for so long, only to be reunited out of the blue. To say that things were a bit awkward was an understatement. "I really have missed you, though."

"I've missed you too. I was so worried about you when you left. And even then..." Lillie faltered for a moment before shaking her head. "So, how've you been doing?" Lillie asked Gladion as Golbat began to circle overhead, with Type: Null on the lookout for any enemies.

"Fine. Training as hard as I can, along with my day job. It gets lonely, but I knew it'd be hard when I decided to leave."

"Job? You have a job?" Lillie blinked in surprise. "Where do you work?"

"I...I can't say. It's complicated." Gladion said evasively. Lillie sighed softly, but nodded. "How about you? How've you been? Why are you here in the islands by yourself?"

"I ran away from home. It was...difficult, but I managed. I've been doing a bit of soul-searching and learning about the Ruins of the Tapu, along with what I can about the Ultra Beasts. With what mother has planned, I need to understand it more before I can figure out what to do next." Lillie said to her brother, who seemed surprised for a moment before he chuckled.

"Look at you, being proactive." Gladion remarked, still laughing a little. Lillie pouted for a moment, but giggled after a few seconds had passed. It was very encouraging for the girl to see that despite the time that had passed, the love between the two siblings was still strong.

"That's good though, Lillie. I'm really glad you managed to get away from the Paradise. How've you been, though? I heard you were traveling around with some friends or something? Demi keeps me posted every now and then." Gladion said to the girl, who seemed surprised.

"Demi? I didn't know she was friends with you. Last I heard she was a member of Team Skull." Lillie said, confused.

"She is, but...We ended up meeting. I helped her out of a tight spot she was in and since then-" Gladion cut himself off with a sudden shriek of energy rushed past the boy and smashed into the back of a Cipher Peon, knocking him and his Shadow Linoone out cold.

"You fools won't escape my wrath. Accept it. This is the fate of you monsters that would dare hurt those under my protection!" boomed a voice that was full of power. Gladion and Lillie turned around in time to see a strange figure floating through the air, a whirlwind of pink scales drifting around it as the creature descended. Lillie recognized the creature out of the books she had read, particularly the one Sun had gotten her for her birthday.

"That's Tapu Lele…" Lillie whispered, half-awed and half-horrified as the whirling winds rushed past them. The two siblings watched with horror as the Tapu smashed through the ranks of Cipher with an ethereal scream, throwing them aside and covering them in glittering scales. At first, Cipher Peons seemed to sigh with relief as their bodies were filled with energy and healing...

And then they began to scream.

"Oh...oh my god…" Gladion muttered as Lillie gripped his arm tightly. To call the sight disturbing would be an understatement, as the men and women of Cipher began to suddenly writhe on the ground, clawing at their faces with dilated eyes as crimson fluid dripped down their mouths.

Tapu Lele floated forward, its eyes burning with energy as it struck down Shadow Pokémon after Shadow Pokémon, all the while scattering its healing scales down the streets to take down the evil Trainers that had come to its island. The Tapu soared through the street with quiet laughter, healing those who fought bravely against the criminals with its scales while causing the Cipher Peons to start going insane from the scales that blew through the air. Lillie knew of the power of the Tapu from the book she had read. How too many scales touching someone would drive them to madness, simply because human bodies couldn't withstand the power of the Tapu. Only a single scale would touch those Tapu Lele wanted to heal, while four or five would touch each Cipher members and bring them down for good. While it was utterly horrifying, Lillie knew that having the Guardian Deity on their side only meant that the tides were changing.

"It's scary, but amazing…" Lillie breathed, smiling slightly as she watched the citizens rally and fight even harder. She could feel something, welling up within her. It was like a candle flame, igniting within her heart. The feeling that they would all escape from this mess alive. That they would persevere. And that she could succeed in everything she worried she was too weak to accomplish.

Lillie felt hope.

The girl looked around the battlefield, and she saw it within the eyes of everyone who had fighting against Cipher. Lillie could see that same spark of hope in their eyes. The Pokémon were affected as well, finding a fresh vigor to battle harder. With the God of Life watching over them, joining in the battle against the evil that had come for them, the people of Alola fought back even harder than before, and Cipher found themselves forced back by the Alolan's new-found resolve.

"So this is the power of the Tapu." Gladion whispered with a smile, feeling the hope within him burn as well. The fact that the gods themselves were showing their support made him feel much better about their chances in the struggle here. Gladion nodded, a grin on his face as he and Lillie hurried along, emboldened by the Tapu that had joined them in battle.

A powerful screech from above snapped everyone out of their daze, and Gladion and Lillie looked up to see a massive blue bird descending from above, releasing a beam of ice that slammed into Tapu Lele from above, making it scream in pain. Shadow Articuno slammed down onto the ground, firing off beams of ice into the street and freezing several dozens of people solid with a terrifying cry.

"Lillie, come on!" Gladion yelled out, sprinting away from the ensuing showdown as Tapu Lele exploded out of the ice and blasted Shadow Articuno into a building with Psychic. Shadow Articuno screeched and swung its wings, releasing a dark whirlwind that sent Tapu Lele tumbling backwards through the air, only for the Tapu to explode in a shower of pink scales and reappear on the ground, glaring up at the Legendary Bird and sending an arc of scales upwards. The blast struck Shadow Articuno, making it cry out before it sent an Ice Beam directly into Tapu Lele, making it crash onto the ground with a groan as the powerful attack began to freeze the ground. Tapu Lele blasted the ice away with its powers and floated upwards, confused as to why its healing scales did not help the Shadow Pokémon ahead of it.

"This must be the work of that evil science that human mentioned. Colress, what other surprises do you humans have in store for me?" Tapu Lele wondered aloud, looking up with some sadness at the Legendary Bird.

"I cannot heal your darkness...I am sorry, Child of Ice." Tapu Lele murmured, holding out both of its hands and releasing a bolt of energy that struck Shadow Articuno in the chest, sending it toppling to the ground as it convulsed in agony. Naturally several Cipher Peons saw their big asset losing and were quick to react.

"Protect Shadow Articuno! Move in!" one of the Cipher Peons yelled, opening fire with a rifle from below. Several members of Cipher joined in, calling out attacks with their Pokémon. Tapu Lele giggled softly as it simply vanished in a swirl of scales before appearing in front of the criminals, its eyes glowing. It became aware of Shadow Articuno launching into the air and flying away, but the Tapu focused on the humans before it.

"I will protect these people. That was a vow I made long ago along with my wonderful friends. My fellow Tapu. I forgot the meaning in that promise...But no longer will I be selfish! So long as they continue to believe in me, I will show them their faith is not misplaced!" Tapu Lele proclaimed, throwing out its hands and sending a massive wave of force that blew apart the Cipher Peons, sending them senseless to the ground, their bodies glowing a harsh pink color.

"Life is sacred. Life is enduring. Life always finds a way, even in the harshest environments. My children...I am sorry to say that your lives are about to end prematurely." Tapu Lele crooned as it began to throw around the Cipher Peons, breaking their necks or stopping their hearts using its psychic powers before flying off into the sky. The Alolan people roared and cheered, smiling at the Tapu as it battled alongside them. The Guardian Deity of Akala Island felt a rush of warmth as it beheld the love of the people it had sworn to protect.

"I was so foolish...I have to do better for them." Tapu Lele chided itself before rushing forward, where it caught sight of a strange Pokémon battling with some of the locals, who were faring badly. Tapu Lele used its powers to scatter apart and reappear in front of where Hapu and Ryuki were squaring off against Deoxys, with Borlath watching from the ground and commanding the DNA Pokémon. Naturally when Tapu Lele arrived, the fighting stopped.

Tapu Lele floated gently down in front of the two Trainers, staring down Deoxys and Borlath with a neutral expression on its face. The God of Life felt nothing from the human, proving that he wasn't even there. Even then, his facial expressions and the Nā maka o ke Aliʻi showed the Tapu his emotions easily enough. Ashton's eyes were the window to his soul, after all.

"Well, well...Look who finally decided to join us." Borlath remarked lightly, his mouth curled into a small smile. Tapu Lele took that moment to notice that a small hovering sphere was above the man's form, which it figured was what made the projection it was seeing. Science was indeed a curious thing.

"Oh my...That's...Tapu Lele has come!" Hapu yelped, unsure of whether or not to bow or continue fighting Borlath's strange Pokémon. Her Mudsdale snorted, wincing in pain from the beating it had received so far. Tapu Lele silently sent four scales fluttering backwards healing the two Trainers and the two Pokémon they had out.

"Wow...so that's Tapu Lele, huh? What an odd Pokémon." Ryuki remarked, smirking slightly as his Kommo-o snarled in reply. "Alola sure is a wild trip! Glad I came here."

"Ashton Aupuni...Why have you come to these islands? You left here many years ago. You showed Tapu Bulu much disrespect that day. You can't even bring yourself to stand in what was once your home." Tapu Lele asked calmly, with Borlath nodding.

"Because we need something from the Champion. But I thought it was the way of the Tapu not to get involved with the matters of humans? That we're supposed to sort ourselves out? Seems awfully hypocritical to interfere with Cipher's efforts to save this world." Borlath responded curtly, crossing his arms as Deoxys landed on the ground beside him.

"Do you know what an eternity feels like?" Tapu Lele asked quietly, with Borlath scoffing at the question. "I have made many mistakes in my long, long life. I tried to harden my heart...and became selfish and cruel as I neglected my duty. But you have reminded me of that, Ashton Aupuni. You reminded me that when my people are in danger, it is my duty to protect them." Tapu Lele remarked, its words echoing with power.

"I'm glad that you've remembered that. Sadly, the Guardian Deities of Alola don't fit into my plans for this world. You should have remembered your duty years ago. And I won't stop until I've killed every single one of you. It's what you deserve, and it's what the world will thank me for." Borlath spat, his eyes turning bright red with fury.

"I'm so sorry...Can you find it in your heart to let go? The hatred you hold for us has poisoned your heart, my child. I have seen your future. You can still change your fate, Ashton Aupuni. But should you continue down this path, only pain awaits you." Tapu Lele whispered, sorrow in its words. Ashton sighed, looking down at the ground.

"No...I gave up on the Tapu a long, long time ago. These islands are corrupt, their antiquated system is broken and the people and their culture is toxic. Even all these years later, seeing Alola does nothing but bring me pain. Pain is something I'm learning to just live with." Borlath said quietly, shutting his eyes for a few moments. He opened them, his eyes jet-black. Tapu Lele couldn't feel it, but she knew that the once hero felt nothing but despair, underneath all of that anger.

"I would like to think some part of you hopes for another way. Despite your actions, you are not a terrible person. You are kind. You are a father. You love this world, despite its flaws. That is why you wish to make it better. You must learn the virtue of hope, my child. You have to believe in the future that your fellow humans can make things better." Tapu Lele said to Borlath, who's eyes flickered to gray.

"Hope...Is not a commodity I'm allowed to have. I've lost the ones I cherished most. I lost my closest friends. I only have my mission. The darkness can swallow my soul whole for all I care. So long as the evil in this world is purged, I'll happily walk down this path. So you can keep your hope. My life has been absent of it for a long, long time. I'm fine without it." Borlath responded bitterly, his eyes flickering to dark blue. Tapu Lele could see it. The guilt. The pain. The horror in what he had done to the world. Tapu Lele knew what would come next. And that made the Tapu despair for the first time in a long time.

Because Tapu Lele knew that it couldn't save this child. He had been hurt too badly. Had been broken too many times. Now he was determined to make sure no one else would have to hurt like him again. Even if the pain dealt in the process would be incredible, Ashton didn't have any hope in his heart for a better way.

"Perhaps…" Tapu Lele mused, a small twinge of amusement in its voice as a vision flitted into its sight. A vision that confirmed what Tapu Lele already knew, but made the Tapu's despair vanish regardless.


"I'll take on all of your darkness! Every single bit of it. I don't care how much you hurt me...I will save you. And I will stop you."


"But a little bit of hope can change the world. My children have proven to me time and time again that hope is one of the strongest motivators any living being can have. And it is my greatest hope that you will come to your senses and realize just how wrong you are. Once upon a time, you held hope in your heart. You were a hero to these people. And then we failed you. It's not too late to let go. To forgive. To not allow that hatred burning within your soul to corrupt you further." Tapu Lele replied somberly, shutting its eyes. Despite its plea, the God of Life knew what Ashton's response would be.

"I'm sorry...But this world can't be saved with hope. And I think we're done here. Deoxys, if you would?" Borlath asked as he looked at Deoxys. The DNA Pokémon nodded before suddenly being blasted by a surge of pink energy. Borlath whirled around in surprise and Tapu Lele was hovering ominously above him, black and pink lightning radiating from its body.

"Very well. Let's begin." Tapu Lele whispered solemnly, swinging its arms and releasing a deadly wave of energy. Borlath let out a shout as his hologram form wavered and was dispelled, the device keeping it there exploding in the air. Deoxys teleported away and hummed ominously, regenerating its destroyed arm and leg. After a moment, the extra-terrestrial Pokémon switched to its Attack Forme and releasing a criss-crossing beam of energy that blasted Tapu Lele back.

"Very well then, monster. You're not the first abomination from another plane I've destroyed." Tapu Lele crooned as a wind kicked up. Deoxys was thrown backwards into a nearby building before being hit with a massive Moonblast that shook the street. Tapu Lele then withdrew into its shell, just in time for a Shadow Ball to suddenly slam into the armor that protected Tapu Lele. Deoxys shot out of the building and slammed into the Tapu, sending them tumbling through the street. The DNA Pokémon hummed angrily as it blasted the Tapu again and again with beams of energy from the jewel on its chest, finally stopping after several minutes. Tapu Lele calmly reappeared from its shell and giggled softly, much to Deoxys' annoyance.

"I think we'll call this a draw." Tapu Lele remarked, throwing out its hands as a crackling wave of energy and scales swirled towards Deoxys, who teleported out of the way and reappeared in front of Guardian Deity, releasing a massive Hyper Beam at point-blank range.

The people watching this battle cried out in horror as they watched the Tapu smash into the road, twitching in pain from such a powerful attack. The Island Guardian rose from the street with an annoyed look, glaring at Deoxys as it switched to its Speed Forme and charged at Tapu Lele, mercilessly slamming into it and sending the two of them crashing down the street.

"ENOUGH!" Tapu Lele bellowed, blasting away the DNA Pokémon as it tried to separate from the Island Guardian. Deoxys hummed again, changing into its normal form and releasing a wave of psychic energy at Tapu Lele, who vanished in a flurry of scales. Deoxys stopped its attack, unable to sense where the Tapu had gone...

The wind began to howl.

Deoxys then noticed that a whirlwind of scales was blowing around it, healing all of Deoxys' injuries. And then...and then...Deoxys groaned as it clutched its head, trembling as the power of the Tapu began to creep in. The DNA Pokémon teleported on the spot, and Tapu Lele reappeared with a small inward sigh.

"That was tiring…" Tapu Lele thought to itself before it began to hear the sound of cheering. Tapu Lele hummed happily as it floated down to the ground, turning to see a small crowd of people cheering for the Tapu's victory over Deoxys. Hapu approached the Tapu from atop her Mudsdale, eyeing the god with awe. Tapu Lele turned its attention to the young woman, sensing her power. Her strength and resolve.

"You...You have a Champion's spirit. Your soul reminds me of another of our chosen. Sofu." Tapu Lele whispered into her mind, making the woman flinch.

"Yes... I am his granddaughter." Hapu said quietly, making Tapu Lele float towards her. After a moment, Hapu gasped as a Tapu Lele reached out and cupped the young woman's cheek. Hapu could feel the wild powers of the Tapu within her mind, somehow. He could feel the endless cruelty of the God of Life...but also the infinite kindness and love that had been reawakened in the Tapu.

"Patience is a virtue. Continue to travel, young one. Tapu Fini is very picky." Tapu Lele advised the woman, who simply stared at the Tapu in bewilderment and confusion. A sudden explosion knocked any thoughts of questioning the Tapu further out of Hapu's mind.

"Retreat for now. Help those who require aid. I will deal with this one." Tapu Lele commanded the young woman before floating ahead, rising above the street to see a horrifying sight.

Amber Fontaine as striding alongside some sort of abomination that vaguely resembled a Rhyperior, except that the monster was obliterating everything within its path. Amber mimicked her Pokémon as she barked commands, firing her guns upon everything her Umbral Pokémon didn't manage to hit. Whether it was person or Pokémon, neither was spared from Amber's merciless attack on the citizens of Royal Avenue, downing dozens upon dozens of people in seconds and coating the streets with crimson. People began running away in fear, but they too were cut down by the insane woman who wore an expression of absolute glee on her face.

Umbral Rhyperior was even more terrifying, somehow. The distorted abomination was charging through the streets, swinging its arms wildly and releasing attack after attack at Amber's command. Each move carried out was something capable of leveling the street, shaking the entire block as the powerful movements of the Umbral Pokémon smashed apart Pokémon and sent Trainers flying through the air.

"Rhyperior, use Umbral Artillery. I don't want a single person left alive!" Amber barked, her eyes gleaming with malice as her prized beast roared in response, throwing out its arms and releasing a wave of rock-like pellets that were traveling with enough force and speed to be bullets. The attack effortlessly cut down Pokémon after Pokémon, coating them with their own blood as they collapsed onto the ground and their Trainers desperately took cover, trying not to be taken apart as Amber tried to kill every single one of them.

Amber caught sight of a familiar girl with black hair running towards her, a Chatot and an Alakazam by her side with a violin in hand. Amber stopped in the streets and made eye contact with Vivian, who shrank back as her eyes went wide.

"Didn't I shoot you, once?" Amber asked curiously, smiling evilly at Vivian as the girl's knees gave out, the young woman trembling at the sight of Amber. "Yes, I shot you in the shoulder. I remember now. Vivian Elise Delacourt, you proclaimed yourself to be...And then I shot you."

"So...have you come to try and save these people? Or are you going to run away...again?" Amber asked mockingly, raising her SMG at Vivian with a monstrous smile. Vivian suddenly grabbed her Alakazam and vanished on the spot, making Amber chuckle darkly in response.

"I thought so...Now let's resume." Amber breathed as Brock and Korrina joined the scene, with Clemont panting behind them.

"Lucario, Aura Sphere!" Korrina barked, skating quickly towards Amber as her Mega Lucario dashed towards the Drill Pokémon, firing off a barrage of spheres that exploded harshly against the Umbral Pokémon. Amber opened fired on Korrina, but the skating fighter proved to move too speedy for her and quickly closed the distance between the two of them, whirling around and kicking out at Amber. The Admin easily blocked the kick and began to dodge a quick onslaught of kicks and jabs from the teen. Mega Lucario began to attack the Umbral Rhyperior with a barrage of attacks as well, mimicking his Trainer.

Amber was surprised at Korrina's skill and ruthlessness, but after a few moments managed to grab the girl by the arm and punched her in the stomach. Korrina coughed and sputtered from the hit, even as Clemont screamed out in fury. Amber dropped her SMG and drew a knife from her armor, swiftly plunging it into the girl's back before throwing her to the ground.

"Shadow End." Amber commanded as Mega Lucario snarled furiously, adding even more power to its attacks as it attempted to avenge it's Trainer. Umbral Rhyperior suddenly lurched forward, charging into Mega Lucario and sending it flying down the street. As it finally came to a stop half a mile down the road, it reverted to its normal state and went limp.

"W-with one hit...what is that thing?" Brock whispered a he turned back to face the Umbral Pokémon, horrified at the sheer power of Amber's strongest teammate. Clemont felt no such fear, glaring at Amber with hate burning in his eyes.

"Heliolisk! Get her!" Clemont bellowed as he kneeled in front of bleeding Korrina, desperately trying to get her to remain conscious while his Heliolisk released a massive blast of lightning towards Amber. The Admin grinned as Avis teleported them to the left, easily dodging the attack before Amber snapped, eyeing a charging Onix and a Forretress.

"Umbral Smash. Take them all out." Amber commanded coldly as Umbral Rhyperior let out a scream, its aura of darkness burning like a twisted inferno. The beast then lowered its head and charged forward, crashing into everything in its path. Brock and Clemont (who was holding onto Korrina tightly) were sent flying backwards as Umbral Rhyperior destroyed everything in sight. Amber simply reloaded and chuckled, enjoying the destruction. Finally the Cipher Admin raised her voice, speaking to the sky as she walked through the devastation, bodies and injured everywhere.

"Come on out! I know you're here, Tapu Lele! Come make me pay! Otherwise, I'm gonna kill every last one of them!" Amber bellowed, throwing her arms apart as Rhyperior picked up the unconscious Onix and threw it down the street with ease. It took another minute, but the Admin saw what she was hoping for, her eyes widening with excitement as she finally saw a pink comet heading her direction.

Tapu Lele swooped down, releasing a literal storm of healing scales that blew forth on the wind that it had kicked up. The scales scattered throughout the street, touching every single person that lay in the streets that was bleeding and screaming out in pain. Even as some of those people began to die, life began to flow back into them. The healing powers of the scales that Tapu Lele could produce were that of legends, and for good reason. Clemont and Korrina sat up, confused as their injuries healed before their eyes (with the dagger in Korrina vanishing into nothingness).

"So...that's the power of the Tapu. Fascinating." Clemont muttered, adjusting his glasses.

Tapu Lele found itself gently floating in front of the assassin and her pet monster, about thirty yards ahead of her. Tapu Lele giggled softly, shaking its head. "You foolish girl...If I didn't know any better, I'd say you were looking to pick a fight with me." Tapu Lele laughed, touching the woman's mind. The Island Guardian found this a much harder task than before, though it figured that the helmet on the woman's head was the reason for that.

"I've been preparing for this...I'm going to make you pay for what you did to me." Amber breathed, her smile wide with blood-lust.

"I made you relive your horrible past and confront it. And I made you confront your own demons. I gave you a gift of healing, and you spit in my face. How like you." Tapu Lele taunted the woman, its eyes gleaming with power. "Enough talk. As is my duty, the God of Life will now end yours."

"Make my day." Amber responded, aiming her two SMG's skyward and yelling, "Umbral Uprising!"

Tapu Lele felt a terrible shiver in the air as Umbral Rhyperior let out a hoarse bellow, sounding as if it was in pain, before its eyes suddenly exploded outwards with flames of darkness. Black flames ignited around the arms of the Drill Pokémon as it let out a harsh roar...and then it brought its arms down. The God of Lufe felt a shiver of fear as the entire city rumbled with the force of the attack that had just been used, with hundreds of jet-black portals appearing all over the city.

And then, the pillars came.

Spiked pillars of black rock, powerful enough to tear through steel as if it was paper, rose up out of the city by the hundreds, tearing apart everything in their path. Human and Pokémon were literally shredded and impaled by the deadly towards as their tore through everything, horrifying Tapu Lele as it beheld the awesome power of Cipher's greatest weapon. With just a simple command, Amber Fontaine had leveled the entire city and was on the verge of killing thousands in a single attack.

Within moments Tapu Lele gathered up its power and sent a wave of scales blowing throughout the city, touching those who had been harmed by the attack and healing them instantly. Tapu Lele put a bit more power into each and every one of the scales, which allowed it to teleport those the scale touched to a place where they wouldn't be harmed. The scales blew through the city by the thousands, all controlled by the will the Guardian Deity of Akala Island. This wasn't a power used very often, but it had to get the injured to safety. Tapu Lele slowly floated down towards the ground, saving those battling in the city but too injured by Amber and Cipher to go on. Finally, the street itself was empty save for the god and the Admin, who stared at each other in silence.

"Thank you...For helping me remember what it was like to hate. It's warm. Like a bonfire." Amber spoke up after a full minute, a smirk on her face as she straightened up. The woman aimed an SMG at Tapu Lele, who used its powers to crumple the weapon into powder.

"Alright then...Stone Edge." Amber ordered Rhyperior, who roared in fury and slammed down its fist, creating several pillars of normal rock that jutted from the ground and slammed into Tapu Lele. The god righted itself in midair, a whirlwind of scales blowing around it as a pink fire leapt into its eyes.

"Let's play your game then!" Tapu Lele cried out, raising a hand and releasing a massive rush of Psychic. The blast obliterated the rocks ahead of it, sending Umbral Rhyperior skidding backwards. Tapu Lele's eyes flickered pink and the air itself began to change, taking on a purple and pink hue.

"I feel stronger for some reason…" Avis noted to Amber, who nodded before pointing forward. "Rock Blast!"

Rhyperior snarled and picked up chunks of the road, firing them with its arms as the Tapu lashed out, blasting apart the rocks coming its way and creating a massive sphere of pink light before firing it at Umbral Rhyperior. The Moonblast struck the beast and toppled it, but to the Tapu's surprise it slowly rose to its feet a few moments later, angering the god.

"Suffer!" Tapu Lele declared as it unleashed Psychic, striking down Umbral Rhyperior and sending it into the nearest building. The Tapu turned itself attention to Amber, who grinned from behind a Protect shield that had sprung up around her.

"I'm not going down like I did last time. I had a broken arm and you caught me by surprise. This time...I'm ready." Amber whispered gleefully, her sadistic grin almost sickening to the Tapu. "Rhyperior, use Stone Edge!"

Tapu Lele whirled around and saw the Umbral Rhyperior emerging from the building with only a few scratches in its powerful hide. Tapu Lele wondered how on earth something could be made that could withstand so much punishment before rocks shot forward, smashing into the god and sending it tumbling through the air. Tapu Lele halted its flight and crumpled the rocks ahead of it, sending a pulse that knocked down the Umbral Rhyperior. Tapu Lele floated down to the ground, holding out its hand as an orb of purple energy flickering into existence. Tapu Lele thrust out the orb and fired three beams of energy out at the Umbral Rhyperior, striking it down with Psyshock before lifting it into the air with Psychic and throwing it at Amber Fontaine. The Admin grinned as the shield around her vanished and the duo teleported. Tapu Lele watched as Umbral Rhyperior hit the street, snarling as it slowly rose again. Tapu Lele sighed, shaking her its head in dismay. "Surely this thing is taking damage? How has science created such a powerful creature?"

The god was snapped out its reverie by the sound of teleporting, and it was surprised when Amber Fontaine pounced on her from above ten stories in the air, jamming her SMG into the Tapu's chest and spraying her SMG into the god and making purple blood splash over her armor. Tapu Lele flung Amber away as it clutched its chest, healing the injuries the insane Admin had just given it before a series of Shadow Balls exploded against its back. Tapu Lele cried out in pain, shaking slightly before turning around to see a black pillar of rock slam into it, sending it flying into another building.

"No one crosses me like that...and lives." Amber breathed as she stood atop Avis, glaring down the god as it extracted itself from the building. Tapu Lele growled angrily, energy rippling around it. "No one makes me have to relive that hell and gets away with it!"

"Aw, are you mad?" Tapu Lele crooned, its playful tone masking it's abject fury. "Very well. I will destroy all traces of your existence from this world. Perish!" Tapu Lele bellowed, throwing out its hands as its entire body began to glow a harsh pink color. A series of pink lights flickered around the god, and seven massive flowers began to form out of the light.

"The flowers of life will bloom over the spot your corpse will lay…" Tapu Lele intoned as the flowers of light grew, vines spreading along the ground as the petals extended outward. The centers of the flowers shone like gems, shivering with energy as Amber and Avis watched on it horror. The flowers suddenly exploded outwards, sending seven massive beams of energy racing towards Amber and her Pokémon. Avis quickly wrapped up Amber in her wings and teleported out of the way, but not before Amber shouted out a command.

"Umbral Barrier!" Amber bellowed before she vanished from sight. The Umbral Rhyperior nodded and curled inward, its aura swirling around it before a sphere of energy formed around it. Tapu Lele screamed as the attacks struck the shield, pumping as much power as it could it the move. To Tapu Lele's delight, the sphere began to crack after a few moments. The cracks spread, and soon enough the powerful barrier shattered under the might of the Tapu, blasting back Umbral Rhyperior and sending it flying down the street.

Tapu Lele wavered in the air as the energy flowers wilted around it, but the Tapu shook its head, clearing away its drowsiness as it floated forward. To its immense pleasure, it saw Amber Fontaine staring at her Pokémon in complete shock from where she had reappeared.

"The Umbral Barrier was designed to be indestructible. Nothing should be able to break it." Amber muttered, shaking her head.

"That is the power of a god...And now you will feel the same." Tapu Lele hissed, ensnaring Amber with Psychic and slamming her into the ground. Amber screamed as he body began to crumpled inwards, though this quickly stopped as Avis shot forward with a screech and dove into Tapu Lele, breaking its concentration long enough for Amber break free from the attack. Amber rose to her feet, panting from the pain, and took a moment to look back at Umbral Rhyperior, which began to stir. Amber looked back towards Tapu Lele as it threw Avis into the road and called, "We're still in this! Rhyperior, get up! We've got a god to kill!"

Umbral Rhyperior began to rise once again, shaking in pain but still glaring forward as it shook and trembled. The terrible aura burning around it seemed to change slightly, becoming a shade darker. It made the Tapu shiver, but it also made the Tapu angry. Even as it noted that there were several cracks on the armor of the Umbral Pokémon, it was still baffling that the Drill Pokémon was still able to stand. Meanwhile, Tapu Lele knew that it couldn't keep up this pace forever. A fact Amber Fontaine knew as well.

"All those fancy tricks had to have worn you out, Tapu Lele. You've battled for quite a bit.. Battling Shadow Articuno and Deoxys, along with the others...Meanwhile, Rhyperior is relatively fresh. I've been saving him for this encounter...Because he's my secret weapon for beating you!" Amber breathed excitedly, tightening her grip on her SMG. "Today is the day we kill a god!"

"Doubtful." Tapu Lele remarked as slammed both palms into the ground, using Nature's Madness. The Fairy-type attack exploded underneath Umbral Rhyperior, staggering the creature and allowing Tapu Lele to send a tendril of pink energy out to impale the creature through the chest. To the Island Guardian's surprise, the tendril bounced off of the thick armor of the Umbral Pokémon, allowing Amber to capitalize on the moment.

"Umbral Smash!" Amber barked, throwing out a hand as Umbral Rhyperior roared and charged forward, smashing into Tapu Lele and sending it hurtling down the road, where it bounced several times before stopping. The god shook with pain, feeling several parts of its body crack and bleed from the force of the attack. Despite this, the god rose once again, scales whirling around it and healing the injuries.

"THAT'S IT! SHOW ME YOUR TRUE POWER!" Amber screamed, looking absolutely deranged now as a maniacal grin split across her face. The Tapu barreled towards their Admin, but Amber simply laughed as Umbral Rhyperior roared out.

"Umbral Artillery!" Amber barked, eyes focused solely on the approaching god, throwing out her hands. Umbral Rhyperior screamed as it mimicked its Trainer, releasing a hailstorm of jet black chunks of rock that were fired with just as much force and impact as bullets. Tapu Lele stopped in its tracks with a small gasp before the attack tore through it, making the Tapu scream in pain before it exploded in a shower of scales, rushing into Umbral Rhyperior and picking up the beast. With an ethereal yell, Tapu Lele hurled the beast clear across the city, sending it through several buildings until it came to a halt close to where the waterfront was.

Tapu Lele reformed then, shaking with exhaustion at what it had just and the damage it had taken. Sending the wounded away, healing hundreds upon hundreds, and battling hard for the first time in several years had exhausted the Tapu. But thankfully everything was…no...

The Island Guardian sighed inwardly, seeing the beast in the distance slowly rise as its master teleported beside him. Perhaps this wouldn't be so simple. Tapu Lele shot towards the group, catching sight of two children running in the same direction. By their side a strange monster lumbered, clearing protecting them from harm.

Gladion and Lillie's eyes widened at the sight of the Tapu as it floated down somewhere ahead of them, where the two children saw Amber Fontaine standing with her Umbral Rhyperior. The woman was completely ignoring them though, as was her Xatu, too focused on the god that they were battling with.

"I am tired of suffering...I am so...tired." Amber breathed, shaking her head. "But I refuse to die by your hands. Not before I get what I am owed. After all of the suffering this world has put me through, I deserve the right to be whole again."

"You don't deserve a thing...Except an early grave." Tapu Lele whispered, anger seeping into it's voice.

Amber grinned as Avis teleported then, with the Admin yelling. "Umbral Spear!"

Tapu Lele lashed out as it spun around, blasting away the attacking Xatu was she fired a Shadow Ball at her. Tapu Lele turned back around, preparing to fire an arc of scales at Amber and end this once and for all-

Only for a jet-black spear of rock to impale the god through the chest, sending it high into the sky.

"No!" Lillie screamed out, with Amber grinning victoriously.

"I refuse to be a victim anymore. I am Amber Fontaine. I am a monster, because that's what the evil of this world made me. Too broken to be normal, I instead chose to become a killer. That is my path!" Amber proclaimed as the spear of rock retreated, causing Tapu Lele to drop down onto the ground limply, a shuddering gasp escaping the Tapu as purple fluid gushed from its chest.

"And now...I kill a god." Amber murmured with her smile widening, showcasing her mania as she prowled forward. Beside her, the powerful Umbral Rhyperior stomped forward, its eyes burning with darkness as it loomed above the fallen Guardian Deity. Tapu Lele tried to rise again, but it simply didn't have enough time before Amber spoke again.

"Goodbye, Tapu Lele. I hope you find peace, knowing I'm going to tear everyone on this island apart." Amber said softly, her manic grin became something absolutely demented as the Tapu struggled to gather its remaining strength, but it was too late. "Umbral Spea-"

"Null, intercept!"

Amber blinked in surprise as a familiar monster suddenly slammed into the side of Umbral Rhyperior, making it stagger for a moment and cause its attack to miss the Tapu completely. Tapu Lele opened a single eye in surprise before shutting it. After a few moments, the Island Guardian suddenly glowed bright pink and exploded in a shower of pink scales that floated away on the breeze. But not before blowing by Type: Null, revitalizing the monster as it dashed out of the way of a swinging arm and tackled Amber to the ground as she tried to shoot at Gladion. Her SMG clattered to the ground and fell into the sea.

The Cipher Admin crashed to the ground with a grunt, but swiftly managed to yank out a blade and stab the tough skin of Type: Null. The beast roared in pain, distracted just enough to where Avis could throw the beast aside and help Amber to her feet.

"Lillie...Stay back." Gladion said firmly as he gripped his arm. The teen felt the familiar pain, his eyes narrowing as Type: Null growled at Amber and Avis, the Umbral Rhyperior shuddering behind it. Amber returned her Umbral Pokémon, smirking at the two of them.

"What an odd Pokémon. I wonder what it can really do." Amber remarked, amused as she flipped her dagger in her grip before nodding forward. Avis' eyes glowed and Type: Null roared and snarled as it was lifted into the air.

"Null!" Gladion shouted, worried as his Partner thrashed in the air.

"Pathetic. You can do better than this, surely. If you can't, I'll just end up killing you both and resume my hunt for Tapu Lele. I had it on the ropes...just a little more and I'll finally make it pay for what it did to me." Amber whispered, her bright blue eyes becoming almost manic in their intensity. It made the two children shiver, as they could practically feel the blood-lust radiating off of the woman. She had the aura of a murderer. A killer with absolutely no remorse. But Gladion stepped forward bravely, a scowl in his face. The group was surprised when a Cipher Peon jogged up to them, looking slightly confused and nervous as he ran up to Amber.

"Ma'am! I'm here to help!" the Cipher Peon said to Amber, who nodded smartly.

"Alright. Get the girl." Amber said, turning away from the man. "She's got some kind of valuable Pokémon, so it's best to-"

Amber was cut off as the man suddenly tackled her to the ground, slashing at her body with glowing claws that erupted from his hands. Amber snarled in pain, trying to pry the man off of her as his frantically attacked her like a wild animal. Avis screeched in horror and tried to use Psychic on the Cipher Peon, but it had no effect on him. Amber finally managed to get her feet under the attacking man and kick him off of her. The Admin rolled to her feet and scowled, throwing a knife at the man who nimbly dodged it, growling at her like a wolf.

"Null!" Amber glanced to the side and jumped back as Type: Null crashed down beside her, charging forward and slamming into Avis, who tumbled to the ground, but flung her wings out and released a blast of psychic force that sent Type: Null flying backwards into a nearby building. Amber turned to the rogue Cipher Peon, annoyed and eyeing the gouges in her armor with distaste.

"I'll admit that's the first time I've fallen for that trick. Avis, reveal it with Aerial Ace." Amber commanded, stepping torward Gladion as she flipped the blade in her hand. Gladion whipped out his switchblade as he called out, "Dodge!

The Xatu was moving far too fast, however, and slammed into the Cipher Peon hard enough to send him crashing to the ground with a cry of pain, his body tumbling across the concrete. His body flickered for a moment before the illusion was dispelled, leaving only an unconscious Zorua.

"No!" Gladion barked, charging forward at Amber. The woman swiftly swatted the boy's arm aside by grabbing it and quickly pulling the boy into a chokehold, all the while wrenching the knife out of his hands and throwing it onto the ground with a clatter. Lillie screamed out, but a pistol leveled at her made her stay away.

"Has it sunk in yet how hopeless this is? If Tapu Lele couldn't stop me, what makes you think that you can?" Amber asked curiously, applying more and more pressure to Gladion's neck and choking the life out of him, the boy furiously trying to pry the woman's off of his neck. Avis tilted her head slightly as a group of figures clad in black sprinted towards them, and Amber turned her head as well to see several members of Team Skull approaching. Gladion took that moment to twist in the woman's group and kick her in the side, but it had little effect.

"Fearow, Aerial Ace!"

"Tirtouga, Water Gun!"

"Drowzee, use Confusion!"

Avis threw up Protect as the barrage of attacks struck them, protecting them from harm. Bone Unit 71 glared down the woman, who stared at them with a bored expression.

"Team Skull...I can't imagine why you idiots would be trying to has no business with you." Amber remarked, still holding Gladion up with one hand.

"Just let that asshole go!" Axen yelled out, throwing his hand aside.

Amber shot them a grin. "Make me."

Tim, Axen, Kevin, and Kayla all shrugged at the same time. Amber's smile faltered, replaced by confusion before a series of stars exploded all around them. Amber snarled and released Gladion, who dropped to the ground gasping for air. Avis whirled around, casting her mind out for the attackers, only for a thick black cloud of smoke to suddenly engulfed three of them.

"Clear it!" Amber barked, covering her mouth. Avis wordlessly repulsed the smoke with a Psychic, though when the smoke was cleared Amber was that Gladion was on the ground by his sister, with Demi standing protectively over them alongside an angry Quilava.

"Don't mess with my friends." Demi snarled, throwing a hand forward. "Everyone! Now! Torch, Swift!"

Amber scowled a barrage of attacks were launched from every direction, though this was avoided simply by Avis teleporting the two of them back about twenty feet. Gladion glared at Demi, though he couldn't help but be thankful for her help. It was obvious who had organized the group and came up with the sneak attack that had freed him from Amber's clutches. Bone Unit 71 moved in front of Gladion, Demi, and Lillie and shielded them from Amber's direct line of sight.

"You okay?" Demi asked Gladion and Lillie, glaring at Amber as the Cipher Admin with her fists clenched.

"As...I'll ever be." Gladion rasped, clutching his throat. Lillie looked at her big brother worriedly, but turned to Demi with some surprise. It was so odd seeing her in the gear of Team Skull, but Lillie had to admit it looked like it was suited for her. The girl's blue and pink pigtails stuck out, and she didn't seem to wear any of the odd makeup Team Skull usually wore. Demi noticed the girl looking at her and pulled down her bandanna a bit, giving her a grin.

"How've you been, girl? Kind of a crappy place for a reunion, huh?" Demi said cheerily, winking at Lillie. The girl managed a smile, but noticed Amber watching them with interest. Lillie wondered why the woman wasn't just outright attacking them, but then she noticed that Amber was looking rather tired. Breathing heavy and with several dents and slashes in her armor. She had definitely taken some damage in the battle so far.

"I can guess why...you helped me out." Gladion muttered, getting to his feet. He turned to the rest of Bone Unit 71. "But I don't get why those dorks helped me."

Demi blushed then, waving her hands frantically. "Y-you don't want to know! Trust me!"

"...I kind of do, now." Gladion muttered, but he decided to drop it so they could focus on the threat at hand. He didn't get a chance to do that before Amber snapped her fingers, with Avis firing off Shadow Balls at Bone Unit 71 and their Pokémon. The group was easily blasted aside, with Kevin being the lone man standing.

"Yo! You suckas get outta here! Get somewhere safe!" Kevin yelled out, throwing his hands out. "Tirtouga, hit her with Water Gun!"

The Prototurtle Pokémon cried out and fired a stream of water at Avis, who simply dodged it and fired a Psybeam at the Tirtouga. Kevin's eyes widened and he yelled out, "Withdraw!"

The Tirtouga hid within its shell as the beam of emery struck it, creating an explosion and sending the shell flying backwards and hitting the ground with a hard thud. An unconscious Tirtouga groaned weakly as Kevin gaped in surprise, but was even more thrown off when Amber suddenly lunged forward, grabbing the teen by the neck. Kevin choked, writhing in the woman's iron grasp as she tried to strangle the life out of him and lifted him into the air.

"I'm getting really tired of people interrupting me. Yeah, everyone's got an excuse to kill me, but it's getting old." Amber remarked, her eyes narrowed in annoyance.

"KEV!"

Amber turned slightly, ignoring Kevin's attempts to pry himself free from Amber's grip to see Axen, Tim, Kayla and Demi running towards him. Each of them sported injuries, but they seemed to be ignored them for now.. Amber scowled and tossed the teen to the ground, scowling as Avis shot forward with Aerial Ace. Kayla's Fearow met her in midair, making the two birds smash into each other before Avis blasted Fearow away with Psychic. Tim's Druddigen fired a Dragon Rage at the bird, who teleported away and blasted it aside with a Shadow Ball.

"Smokescreen!" Demi yelled out as Amber jumped back, frowning slightly as smoke obscured the teens. She called out her Chandelure to back Avis up, knowing she really didn't have time to deal with these pissants. Avis blasted the smoke aside, with the Chandelure hovering forward with a ghostly wail as it began to blast flames down at the Team Skull Grunts. Demi scowled and glared up at the Chandelure, who locked eyes with the girl…

And stopped it's attack instantly.

The Chandelure stared at Demi, a look of surprise on its face as it slowly floated down to the ground. Torch barked out at the Pokémon, which simply cooed in response. Torch looked confused for a moment before it suddenly barked out in surprise. Demi looked back and forth between the two Pokémon while Amber simply stared at them all in confusion.

"What is it Torchy? What's with this…" Demi then really began to look at the Pokémon ahead of her. The same, worried look of fear of its face seemed so familiar. And coupled with the fact that it was outright ignoring the commands Amber was giving it now made Demi think.

It made her think about a certain Litwick that hated Pokémon battles.

A Litwick that she had released into the wilds.

"Aou?" Demi whispered as the Chandelure shuddered, floating backwards as it cried out softly. "Is that you?"

"Interesting. So you were his former Trainer?" Amber noted, interested. Before she could comment further, Kayla and Axen threw themselves at Amber, getting swiftly put into the ground with two swift kicks. Amber returned Aou as it floated towards Demi, smirking now. "Interesting. He's been wanting to see you again. I captured him after some bandit named Night Slash tried to kill him. Maybe if you survive this day, I'll give him back to you. I'm nothing if not fair."

"Give me back my Pokémon!" Demi barked, with Amber grinning at the girl.

"I didn't take him. You released him. And I made him stronger than he could have ever dreamed over the course of a mere week. That was what he wanted. He chose to help me in my plans in exchange for power. So he could return to his Trainer's side, strong enough to protect her." Amber explained as she casually kicked Kayla on the ground, making the girl cry out. Demi stared down at the ground, tears burning in her eyes.

"Aou...I'm so sorry." Demi muttered, looking down at the ground. After a moment her head snapped up, tears dripping down her eyes. "Swift! Follow up with Flame Wheel!" Demi shouted as Torch cried out, leaping forward and releasing a barrage of stars at Avis. The Xatu snorted as the stars struck it, not even bothering to dodge the unavoidable attack.

"Put it down!" Amber barked, looking as those she had finally lost her patience. Avis nodded and it's eyes began to burn bright blue, with a massive wave of Psychic rushing towards Torch and knocking out the Quilava with a single strike. Demi yelled out in concern, returning her loyal Quilava.

"Shit...this bitch means business." Kevin gasped, struggling to stand as Gladion scowled. Why were these idiots trying to help him and Lillie? Weren't they supposed to be trying to capture her? Gladion's body ached with pain as he looked over at the injured teens, with Demi glaring down Amber with fury in her eyes.

"I don't...agh..." Gladion wheezed, with Kevin looking at Gladion with a hidden smirk.

"Don't ask why, yo! Grab that girl and bail! These islands belong to Team Skull, yo! And this bitch just picked a fight with us. We're gonna throw down, yo!" Kevin declared, turning towards Amber. The assassin became aware of more and more of the gangsters heading their way. Gladion stared at Bone Unit 71 for several seconds before nodding, grabbing Lillie's hand and running towards the Thrifty Megamart. Gladion stopped after a few moments, looking back at the group.

"You dorks better not die." Gladion warned them, earning a middle finger from everyone except Lillie, Demi and Amber.

"Dems, go with him! We'll put this bitch down!" Kayla growled, running forward and trying to punch Amber, only to get an armored fist to the stomach and made the teen drop to her knees, coughing and sputtering in pain. Amber stepped past the teens, her eyes narrowing as more members of Team Skull tried to surround the woman. Demi looked worried, but nodded and hurried after Gladion, hoping her new family would be safe. Team Skull focused their attention on Amber, who had her arms crossed with a bored expression.

One of the Grunts sprinter at Amber, trying to tackle the woman, only for quickly get knocked aside with a kick as Amber suddenly ran at the thugs, grinning with bloodlust now as the group converged on the assassin. Despite the numbers, Amber was easily able to fend off the group with a barrage of punches and kicks. Avis watched merrily from above, amused as Team Skull desperately tried to fight.

"Yo! You can't do that to Team Skull! We're the hardest and bonest guys-" Axen began to yell, only to be cut off.

"And girls!" one of the female Grunts yelled.

"Around!" one of the shorter Grunts finished, pointing at Amber. By now, about twenty of the gangsters had arrived, glaring at Amber Fontaine for having the nerve to attack their family. Two Grunts were helping Axen, Kayla, and Kevin to their feet while Tim simply called out his Druddigen, which snarled in fury.

"You people are complete idiots." Amber said as she gestured to the gangsters. "Come on. Show me what you've got! Or was that it?"

"GET THAT BITCH!" Axen bellowed, charging at Amber despite the pain he was in. The Admin grinned, easily dodging the swing and kicking the teen in the chest, sending him crashing to the ground with a scream of pain as he clutched his ribs. Amber chuckled as several more gangsters charged at her, only to quickly get beaten down by the Admin with a series of swift punches and kicks.

"What's with this chick?" Axen wheezed, clutching his ribs.

"She's like a robot…" one of the female Grunts groaned in reply, clutching her arm. Kevin nodded and looked up, and was surprised to see a girl with blue hair running towards them. He recognized her as one of the Akala Island Captains.

"Yo, get out of here! This is Team Skull's fight!" One of the Grunts yelled at Lana as she stopped running, putting herself in between Team Skull and Amber, who was looking at the girl and the Z-Ring on her wrist with interest. As if Amber could tell that Lana would be a decent challenge when compared to the children she had encountered.

"And who are you, little girl? Another lamb to the slaughter?" Amber asked, stomping down on a Grunt's chest with a snarl.

"I am Lana, the Captain of Brooklet Hill. You probably don't know the significance of these words, Amber Fontaine, but I will explain this to you. I swore an oath to protect Alola and it's people from harm…" the Captain scowled, stepping forward with her blue eyes narrowing in anger.

"That includes the forgotten sons and daughters of Alola that make up Team Skull. You won't lay a finger on them so long as I stand!" Lana shouted furiously at Amber as her Z-Ring flared brightly. Team Skull as a whole stared at the Captain in abject shock. Partly because she had saved them from getting massacred, and partly because this was the first time someone not a part of Team Skull was actually defending them. Not only that, but a Captain?

"Why? Like...after all the shit we've done to you...Why help us, yo?" Axen asked, genuinely confused. Lana glanced back at him, offering the teen a small smile.

"I have a friend named Sun. You might know him, but...He seems to have this effect on people. He brings out the best in them. At the same time, he believes that everyone has good inside of them. And he taught me something that day we you and your friend came to Olivia's shop…" Lana said quietly, her eyes never leaving the face of Amber.

"At the end of the day, Team Skull is comprised of people. Ordinary folk who have decided to turn to a life of crime because they had nowhere else to turn to. Yes, you're troublemakers and you make my life really annoying, but despite that...I'll still protect you. Because you still matter. That is what it means to be a Trial Captain! To protect everyone and ensure the bond between humans and Pokémon holds firm!" Lana declared as she stared down Amber with not a single trace of fear in her eyes. It was made the thugs stare at the teen in awe, as for the first time, they could feel the powerful resolve of the Trial Captain.

"Shit...that little homie Sun is the real deal, huh?" Kevin remarked, grinning down at the Tirtouga Sun had given him as he healed it with the one Revive he had brought along. Axen smirked despite himself, clutching his ribs as he stared at Lana.

"I'm popular today. Avis?" Amber said to her Partner, who grinned and shot forward with Aerial Ace. Lana grinned as a massive swarm of fish suddenly shot out of the ocean behind her and slammed into Avis, sending her crashing to the ground mercilessly. Amber's eyes widened in surprise as the massive school of fish formed into one massive fish that writhed wildly in front of Lana.

"Washua...Show them no mercy. Waterfall!" Lana growled as she punched out her hand, wearing an almost sinister grin as her friend suddenly became engulfed in a fiery orange aura. The Totem Wishiwashi roared and charged forward, roaring as a flume of water surrounded it as the beast collided with Avis, sending her crashing senseless to the ground. Amber scowled and returned Avis, calling out Breloom and Kingdra. Lana called out her Araquanid and a Milotic as her Totem Wishiwashi roared in fury, the Z-Power burning though its veins and giving it extra strength.

"Scald! Water Pulse! Ice Beam!" Lana barked out as Washua fired off a beam of ice at Kingdra, sending it reeling back with a screech of pain. Waves of water slammed into Breloom, knocking it to the ground. The Mushroom Pokémon rolled to its feet, scowling at the trio of Water-types.

"Seed Bomb! Rapid fire! Dragon Pulse on Araquanid!" Amber barked as she flexed her hands, scowling as her Breloom leapt high into the air and rained down exploding seeds that made Milotic and Wishiwashi cry out in pain. Araquanid shot forward, attempting a Lunge attack at the command of Lana, but was blasted back by Dragon Pulse. The Breloom dashed around the street, lobbing Seed Bombs at her Totem Wishiwashi and Milotic, dealing major damage.

"Mach Punch on Milotic, followed up with Mega Drain on Wishiwashi!" Amber barked, clenching her fists. "Kingdra, support position!"

Breloom darted forward, grinning as it quickly began to pummel Milotic with a quick series of jabs and punches before kicking off of the Tender Pokémon and landing on a snarling Wishiwashi's back, releasing a green beam of energy that began to suck away the Totem's health. Araquanid tried to help, only for Kingdra to blast it with a Hyper Beam.

"Throw it off your back! Milotic, help out with Ice Beam!" Lana called out, with Milotic firing off a beam of icy energy that struck Breloom and sent it flying off of the Totem Pokémon.

"Milotic, Wishiwashi, you both use Ice Beam on Breloom! Araquanid, use Liquidation on Kingdra, followed by Blizzard!" Lana commanded her team as Breloom landed lightly on the ground, firing a Bullet Seed at Lana's trio of Pokémon. Milotic cried out in pain, firing off an Ice Beam at Breloom while Wishiwashi charged forward, shooting beams of ice down at the street.

"Dodge, and hit it with Solar Beam!" Amber commanded her Breloom. "Make sure they don't freeze the ground! Kingdra, Dragon Pulse! Keep that bug away!"

Breloom nodded and leapt high into the air, opening its mouth for Solar Beam and dodging Milotic's attack. Wishiwashi fired its own Ice Beam just as Breloom brought its head down, striking it in the chest. This made the Pokémon flinch, but it still released a massive blast of energy that struck down Milotic, knocking out the Tender Pokémon. Meanwhile Araqanid ducked low to avoid a blast of draconic energy, leaping at Kingdra as its legs became engulfed with water, After striking the Dragon Pokémon repeatedly, the spider released a howling Blizzard at point-blank range, knocking back the Kingdra. Lana quickly returned her Milotic as the Breloom fell to earth, crashing down on the ground. The Mushroom Pokémon weakly rose to its feet, but Lana was quick to capitalize.

"Washua, use Double-Edge!" Lana barked, throwing out her hand, The massive Totem roared as it shot forward, swinging its tail quickly as it began to glow before it smashed into Breloom hard, knocking it out. Amber smirked, returning her Breloom and calling out her Electivire.

"Alright...It's about time I stop playing. Electivire, Thunderbolt. Keep those Pokémon off of Kingdra." Amber said as she crossed her arms, adding, "Kingdra, Dragon Dance. Repeat until I say otherwise."

"Oh no...I have to stop that Kingdra!" Lana thought as she held out her Z-Ring as Totem Wishiwashi roared in unison. Kingdra frantically danced in place, a faint red glow surrounding it. Lana quickly struck a series of poses, yelling out, "Washua! Channel Surf...and use Hydro Vortex!"

Amber's eyes widened in surprise as a massive waterspout formed before her eyes, whirling around and around and heading straight for her Electivire. The Thunderbolt Pokémon snarled, releasing a deadly volleyball of bolts at Wishiwashi and Araquanid, knocking both Pokémon back before it was hit. Electivire yelled out as it was pummeled by the attack, and when it exploded and the Thunderbolt Pokémon was released, it was shuddering in pain.

"Double-Edge! Ice Beam!" Lana commanded, punching forward.

"Kingdra, Dragon Pulse." Amber ordered, with the Kingdra suddenly dashing forward and releasing a massive blast of energy that slammed into Araquanid and knocked it out, to Lana's horror. Lana returned her Partner, scowling at Amber as she crossed her arms.

"Washua, use Surf!" Lana commanded, with the Totem releasing a massive wave of water over both Kingdra and Electivire.

"Thunderbolt, Dragon Pulse. Don't let up." Amber ordered her Pokémon, with both Pokémon releasing their attacks at the lone Totem Pokémon.

"Go after the Kingdra first. Separate!" Lana yelled out, with the Wishiwashi suddenly glowing bright white and exploding in a shower of water, allowing the collective to dodge both attacks that were sent its way. When the flash ended, one especially large fish was surrounded by hundreds of smaller ones, but they quickly swam towards Kingdra, who looked confused.

"Don't get distracted, Kingdra. Dragon Pulse!" Amber ordered her Pokémon, who nodded after a moment. However, that was a moment of understanding too late.

"Double-Edge!" Lana barked, throwing her hand out as Washua let out an echoing cry. The horde of Wishiwashi swirled around Washua, forming into the massive beast from before. The monster, now suddenly reformed, roared before it smashed into Kingdra. The Dragon Pokémon flew backwards before it slammed into a brick wall, sliding down it with a dazed groan before passing out.

"You're definitely skilled, I'll give you that." Amber said to the Captain, allowing herself a small smile as she recalled her Kingdra. Nearby, Electivire was grinning at the showdown that had just taken place. To Lana's surprise Amber returned her Electivire as well, and called out Avis again. The fainted bird flopped to the ground, unconscious, as Amber rolled her eyes. The assassin reached into a pouch attached to her thigh and pulled out a jagged looking gemstone. Lana recognized it as a Max Revive, making her scowl.

"Washua, Surf!" Lana shouted as Amber's Xatu jerked back to awareness. A massive tidal wave rushed from the sea towards the assassin and her loyal bird, with the two of them teleporting on the spot and dodging the attack. Lana grit her teeth in annoyance, but was surprised when Amber teleported in front of her and punched her in the stomach hard enough for a spray of blood to erupt from Lana's mouth. Amber snatched the pistol from her belt and jammed it against Lana's head as she grabbed the Captain by the throat, lifting her into the air.

"I respect your power...And I'll make your death quick." Amber remarked, pressing the gun harder against the Lana's skull. The girl's breath hitched and she shut her eyes, terror filling her. But before anything else happened, Amber was suddenly tackled to the ground by a teen in a black shirt.

"Get the hell outta here, yo!" Axen screamed at Lana, his voice strained as more and more members of Team Skull charged at the evil woman that tried to tear them apart. Lana remained still on the ground, shaking from the pain she was in. Demi dropped to the ground and helped Lana to stand, draping an arm over her shoulder.

"Come on…consider this my way of saying sorry for being such a bitch before." Demi muttered, looking back at Team Skull as they rushed forward yet again, despite being hurt and battered. The gangsters dog piled on Amber, crushing her beneath their combined weight as a wave as attacks from Team Skull's Pokémon pelted Avis in midair from all sides, keeping the Xatu from attacking their Trainers. Axen and Kevin struggled to hold down Amber's arms and legs alongside the other Grunts, who were punching and kicking every part of her they could see as Amber writhed beneath them, trying desperately to get out.

"QUICK! PUNCH HER IN THE DICK!" one of the Grunts yelled.

"SHE DOESN'T HAVE ONE!" Axen yelled as he struggled to keep the assassin pinned to the ground. Even with three Team Skull Grunts keeping her down, Amber was fighting her way free.

"TRY IT ANYWAY!" the same Grunt bellowed. Axen shrugged and drew his fist back, only for an armored fist to smash into his face, making him scream in pain and fall to the ground. Amber wrenched the limbs of the teens away from her and dispatched them with more punches, snarling angrily like an animal.

"I'm getting tired of this. It was fun earlier, but you idiots are wearing out your welcome." Amber growled as Team Skull stared her down, anger in their eyes.

"Yo, you freaks can't hang with Team Skull! And even if we hate them stupid ass Captains, ain't no one taking them down but us, you dig?" one of the Grunts shot back, making Amber blink twice in confusion.

"I'm so confused." Amber muttered, drawing a dagger as Avis bristled, her eyes glowing a harsh blue color and picking up five of the Grunts, making them scream in pain as the Xatu giggling softly. "This is a nice distraction, though. It's fun to just kill some morons, once in a while. Unless someone else wants to interrupt me!"

"Um...well this is awkward."

Amber screamed in frustration as she turned around, only for a fist to smash into her face and send her staggering backwards. Professor Kukui grinned sheepishly as the assassin regained her footing and growled in anger.

"I fucking hate this place." Amber spat, rubbing her cheek. "I don't care if pain is generally muted for me. Getting punched in the face hurts."

Kukui chuckled, crossing his arms. "Well, then you shoulda learned your lesson the first time. My fists can deliver one heck of a Mach Punch." Kukui then turned his attention to Team Skull, who were staring at the two adults with confusion. "Guys...Thanks for keeping an eye out for Captain Lana. It was pretty big of you." Kukui said as he strode forward, glaring down Amber as she tried to catch her breath. Kukui glanced at Axen and Kayla, who were the closest nearby. "I caught wind of what was going on here. Go find somewhere safe to be. I think me and Miss Fontaine have a score to settle."

"Shit, don't gotta tell me twice!" Axen yelled out, limping the fuck out of the area as the rest of Team Skull made a hasty retreat by hobbling away.

"This'll be fun. Unlike that little girl, you can actually fight back. After I kill you, I can finish off that girl and her brother. And then the Tapu." Amber breathed, grinning sadistically. Team Skull scurried out of the area, grabbing their wounded friends and quickly leaving Kukui and Amber to battle in the street.

Avis landed beside Amber as Kukui called out a massive red and black cat that looked muscular, a flaming belt around its waist. Kukui struck a fighting stance as his Incineroar did the same, the both of them wearing matching grins.

"I hope you've gotten stronger. Because I've got a full team ready to make you pay for what you've done." Kukui said quietly as Amber chuckled softly.

"Well...here we are. Avis prepare yourself." Amber warned her Partner, who nodded. Kukui suddenly stood upright, grinning as he adjusted his hat. Amber blinked in confusion.

"I was hoping you'd start off with your Xatu. Might as well get rid of your biggest asset first. And I've figured out the perfect way to counter it." Kukui boasted, crossing his arms and looking like he wasn't afraid of Amber at all. Even Incineroar mirrored his Trainer's confidence, with Amber scowling. The plan wasn't going as expected, and while the plan did revolve around getting everyone's attention on her, getting interrupted every five minutes was getting on her nerves.

"Oh really? Then go for it. Tell me your great strategy, then." Amber remarked dryly as Avis's eyes began to burn with energy.

"Oh, yeah, it's really simple. Incineroar...use Taunt." Kukui ordered the Heel Pokémon.

"What?" Amber asked, confused. The Incineroar suddenly strutted forward, wearing a massive smirk on its face as a shudder rang through the air. Amber narrowed her eyes, wondering what Kukui was up to, when suddenly Avis let out a piercing screech of fury.

"Don't you mock me!" Avis snarled at the Incineroar, who pointed at the Mystic Pokémon, curling its finger inwards, as if to say 'come and get me'.

"Don't let that thing get to you. Teleport me behind Kukui so I can stab him and end this." Amber ordered Avis, who shook her head. Amber scowled and said, "Just do it!"

"No! I'm...errrrgh! So angry! Let's get them!" Avis snarled, too angry at Incineroar's insurance to obey Amber's commands. Amber then remembered what it was exactly that Taunt did, and the realization struck her like a bolt of lightning. Taunt made it so the opponent could only use Attacking Moves. Which meant...which meant...

"You...You...Huh?" Amber sputtered, genuinely dumbfounded for once in her life. Kukui grinned widely, snapping his fingers as Incineroar crouched low, matching his Trainer's smile.

"Darkest Lariat!" Kukui ordered as Incineroar sprinted forward with burning claws. Avis screeched in surprise as the Heel Pokémon spun around rapidly, smashing into Avis and sending her sprawling onto the ground. Amber stared at her partner in surprise before turning to Kukui.

"Thing is, it's a really good strategy, the one you've got. You're a fantastic battler, but realistically you don't need to battle people when you can just knock them out or kill them. Your Xatu helps you out a lot with that Teleport stuff, I've noticed. You really depend on her to be at your absolute best. You abuse Teleport, Protect, and other support moves pretty badly. So taking that advantage away from you means this'll be a much more fair fight. Taunt ensures that your Xatu can only use Attacking Moves for the next thirty minutes. Which is more than enough time for me to take you down," Kukui said firmly to the assassin, getting into a fighting stance and still wearing a smile. Amber stared at Kukui for a few moments before she actually began to clap for the Professor.

"Well played, Professor. You're the first person to completely negate my main strategy in combat. I guess this'll be a straight-up battle. But let's see if you can keep up." Amber said as she called out her Electivire and Chandelure, grinning like a demon as Avis staggered to her feet. Kukui called out his Magnezone, which hummed as it emerged from its ball.

"Incineroar, Flamethrower on Electivire and Darkest Lariat on Chandelure! Magnezone, Lock-On! Prepare yourself for a full-power Zap Cannon, yeah!" Kukui ordered his two Pokémon.

"Flamethrower on Magnezone. Electivire, pummel it." Amber commanded, with Aou releasing a powerful blast of flames at Magnezone and forcing the Magnet Area Pokémon buzzed in pain, however its eyes did glow a faint blue color as it zero'd in on Chandelure. Incineroar rushed forward, spewing flames from his belt at Electivire even as he charged at Chandelure. With a surprising display of agility, the Heel Pokémon leapt into the air and whirled around, slamming into the Luring Pokémon with a savage roar.

"Not bad. Electivire, keep Incineroar busy. Aou, use Overheat!" Amber commanded, with the Chandelure shivering after a moment before releasing a massive sphere of raw heat at Incineroar and Magenzone. Neither Pokémon were able to avoid the explosion of raw heat that made Kukui cover his face. As the flames settled, Kukui saw Chandelure hovering directly in front of them…

"Zap Cannon, fire!" Kukui barked, punching forward. Magnezone buzzed angrily, charging up a sphere of heavily condensed electrical energy that shot towards Chandelure. The Ghost/Fire-type cried out before the sphere exploded against it, making it fly backwards with a wail of pain. Meanwhile Electivire and Incineroar were exchanging a flurry of powerful blows, trying to get the advantage over the other.

"Throat Chop! Follow up with Flamethrower!" Kukui commanded, crossing his arms. "Thunder, Magnezone! Finish off that Chandelure!"

"Aou, Flamethrower! Don't let it get the chance!" Amber barked as Aou shuddered in pain. Amber scowled as she realized the Luring Pokémon was paralyzed now, and a massive bolt of lightning dropped down on Aou, shocking the living daylights out of the Pokémon. Amber glanced to the side and saw her Electivire blast Incineroar back with a powerful Thunderbolt, dodging the Flamethrower with a leap into the air, before her eyes narrowed in on the Magnezone ahead of her.

"Damn...that thing's got some power behind it." Amber said as Aou drifted to the ground, groaning softly. "I suppose I can only train a Pokémon so much in a week. Aou still has some catching up to do."

"Can I finally join the battle? You're already down Kingdra, Breloom, and Aou." Avis asked, ruffling her feathers. The Xatu looked somewhat cranky, eyeing the Incineroar with an expression of hatred.

"Avis, hang back and let me enjoy this. I'll need you for later!" Amber replied, grinning with a terrifying excitement gleaming in her eyes. It was moments like this, fighting to the death with a strong opponent, that made her feel truly alive. "Electivire, Thunderbolt on the ground ahead of you! Then run through it and use Thunder Punch!"

"What?" Kukui yelped in surprise as the Thunderbolt Pokémon released a powerful blast of lightning about ten feet ahead of it. The Electivire suddenly dashed through its own attack, wincing slightly. Kukui was horrified to see that the maneuver made Electivire speed forward and deck Incineroar in the face with a wicked Thunder Punch, knocking out the Heel Pokémon in the process.

"Using Thunderbolt on yourself to make use of Electivire's Motor Drive Ability. Man...You're one hell of an opponent." Kukui muttered as he returned his Incineroar and called out his trusty Snorlax. "But so am I! Hyper Beam, Snorlax!"

"Electivire, Psychic to block! Follow up with Brick Break!" Amber barked as the Thunderbolt Pokémon's eyes burned blue with energy. Snorlax released a massive beam of energy that surged towards the Electivire, only for it to be diverted at the last moment, allowing Electvire to speed forward and deliver a powerful chop to the Sleeping Pokémon's head, making it stumble back.

"Body Slam!" Kukui barked, adding, "Use Tri Attack, Magnezone!"

"Jump back to dodge, and use Thunderbolt Punch on Snorlax. Brick Break on Magnezone!" Amber barked, her smile becoming darker as her Electivire leapt back to dodge the powerful Body Slam. The Thunderbolt Pokémon released another blast of lightning directly ahead of itself, which it than charged through to deliver a super-charged and very fast Thunder Punch that knocked over Snorlax, much to Kukui's horror. The Electivire then sprinted at Magenone, leaping high into the air to dodge the Tri Attack and deliver an airborne chop to Magnezone, sending the Pokémon crashing to the ground with a groan.

"Follow up with Thunderbolt!" Amber called as Kukui grit his teeth. Even with one-on-two, this woman was fierce! He needed to end this quickly.

"Magnezone, Magnet Rise and use Flash Cannon on Electivire! Snorlax, use Earthquake!" Kukui barked, with Snorlax nodding as a streak of lighting raced towards it. Magnezone shivered with energy before floating higher into the air, easily avoiding the massive shockwave of Earthquake as Snorlax hopped into the air and slammed down into the ground with an incredible amount of force. Electivire stumbled, crying out in pain as the super-effective attack struck it. It went flying backwards as Flash Cannon struck it, sending it crashing to the ground with a groan as it fainted.

"Well played. But I think we both know that I should probably wrap this up. So let me show you the true strength of Cipher." Amber said quietly, recalling her fallen Electivire and drawing a broken black Poké Ball that seemed to radiate darkness. "Rhyperior...destroy him."

Amber called out her infamous Umbral Pokémon, which made Kukui take a step back in horror as he beheld the twisted Pokémon, mutated almost beyond recognition. It was so much worse than the terrible aura the Shadow Pokémon gave off, that to describe it in mere words would be impossible. Snorlax and Magnezone shivered in fear, able to feel the inherent wrongness in the air as Amber chuckled with amusement.

"I can feel your fear. Good. Then you should know that your life will be ending soon. Don't worry, though, Professor. You'll be in good company." Amber said before she pointed at Kukui and his team. "Rhyperior...Umbral Artillery!" Amber commanded, with the monster behind her letting out a guttural roar that shook the street. Rhyperior threw out its arms and began to fire chunks of blackened rock at Kukui and his team with the force of a gatling gun. The attack made Snorlax and Magnezone cry out in pain, cutting down the already weakened Magnezone with ease and making Snorlax take several steps back as the deluge of rocks smashed into it, creating several dozens scratches and nicks in the Pokémon's thick skin. Snorlax shuddered in pain as crimson dripped down its body, the Napping Pokémon panting heavily as Kukui grit his teeth. Despite how powerful his Pokémon were, those Umbral Moves were strong enough to easily take them down. Plus they had already battled Amber's already powerful team.

"To see Pokémon Moves like that...It really is a slap in the face to my profession." Kukui spat at Amber, who looked surprised at the level of anger in the normally jovially man's voice. "Your Shadow Pokémon are twisted until they can't feel anything except anger. And then this...this Umbral Pokémon...it's nothing short of a travesty."

"I know." Amber said simply, shrugging. "If I was able to feel anything, I'd be horrified. But that curse hasn't kicked in, thank god, so I don't have to care."

"Ice Beam! Stop it in its tracks!" Kukui barked, with Snorlax firing off the attack with a roar. The icy beam struck Umbral Rhyperior, who staggered back a single step as frost began to cover its body.

"Rock Wrecker." Amber commanded as her Umbral Rhyperior shattered the ice with ease and charged forward, cloaked in a fiery wraith of energy.

"Giga Impact! Follow up with Ice Punch!" Kukui barked, charging towards Amber. The assassin grinned and ran forward, meeting the Professor head-on by throwing a punch at the man. Kukui caught it and threw Amber over his shoulder, but the woman landed on her feet and whirled around, punching Kukui hard in the ribs and making him leap back, his teeth bared in a snarl. It was so uncharacteristic of the man, but it made Amber grin. The Professor wasn't playing around. He was trying to take her down. Meanwhile Snorlax and Umbral Rhyperior collided with each other, creating a massive wave of force that knocked the two Trainers down to the ground.

Kukui rolled to his feet and tackled Amber to the ground, but Amber was able to slam an elbow into Kukui's chest and throw him off of her, with the woman snatching a throwing knife from her belt and hurling it at the man. Kukui sidestepped the blade, snatching it out of the air with a quick movement and ran at the assassin. Amber blocked the blade with her armored arm and punched Kukui in the chest, following up with a kick to the leg and a roundhouse kick that knocked the man to the ground. Kukui groaned slightly, but lashed out with a kick that knocked Amber Fontaine to the ground as well.

"Stone Edge!" Amber barked, rolling to her feet and drawing her sidearm. Kukui's eyes widened as Amber fired, but Snorlax stepped in front of his Trainer and easily blocked the shots with its body, groaning slightly before firing at Ice Beam that struck Amber and sent her crashing to the ground with a scream. Snorlax was thrown back by the Stone Edge, but tanked the attack much like he did the bullets. Kukui was grateful the attack hadn't struck him, and sighed with relief.

"As much as I despise the idea of stooping to your level, you need to go down. I can't have you hurt anyone else." Kukui said quietly as he patted Snorlax's side for a moment as Amber tore herself free from the ice. Kukui charged at the woman and punched her hard in the face, sending her tumbling free from the ice and knocking her to the ground. Amber scrambled to her feet, only to get a dropkick that sent her back down again.

"She's tiring. She came into this fight already worn out. That just means I need to hang on and finish this!" Kukui thought as he threw a fist at Amber, who caught it and wrenched his arm aside, kneeing the man in the chest before delivering a two-handed strike to Kukui's back. Amber was then thrown backwards by Snorlax swatting her, sending her crashing into a light-post. Amber hit the ground with a groan, slow to rise as Kukui got to his feet.

"Brick Break! Ice Punch! Put that thing down!" Kukui barked, throwing a hand towards Umbral Rhyperior. Snorlax charged, delivering several super-effective punches that made the beast scream in pain, but Kukui was concerned to see that it wasn't passing out or fainting from the abuse it had taken so far.

"Heh...My Rhyperior is designed to tank attacks, Professor. You'll have to do a lot better than that." Amber breathed, finally standing as she winced in pain. "All Umbral Pokémon have the ability to recover their stamina and heal their own wounds, given time. You can't just knock it out, Professor. You'll have to kill it. And I honestly don't think you've got it in you to kill a Pokémon, no matter how much of a monster it is." Amber said as she clenched her fists. "And it's time for you to die. I'm done playing around."

"Snorlax, prepare yourself!" Kukui called out, a thrill of horror coming over him as a small smile flickered across Amber's face. With each passing second, Amber's smile widened.

"UMBRAL WAVE!" Amber shouted, her grin becoming something truly twisted. Kukui shivered with fear at the mania and evil in those eyes, the eyes of someone who was beyond broken inside and had been consumed by darkness, much like the Umbral Pokémon she commanded. Rhyperior threw back its arms, both of which began to crackle with some form of black lightning, before the Drill slammed both arms down, creating a tidal wave of darkness that rushed forward, making Kukui yell out.

"Snorlax, use Protect!" Kukui screamed as the Sleeping Pokémon stepped in front of Kukui, throwing out its arms as a barrier flickered into existence. The Umbral Move smashed into the shield like a tidal wave, making the barrier begin to crack instantly. Kukui grit his teeth as Snorlax strained against the shield...and then the barrier shattered. Snorlax cried out as the attack smashed into it, with the attack washing over him and Kukui and sending both to the ground as the attack drove agonizing pain through their bodies. Kukui screamed as he writhed on the ground, twitching horribly as Amber chuckled softly. After what seemed like an eternity, the attack ceased, and Kukui was left twitching in pain. Kukui tried to move but gasped as he clutched his leg, which was bleeding badly from a gash on the side.

"It hurts, doesn't it? The helplessness is setting in…" Amber breathed, grinning as Avis chuckled at her side.

"N-no...Not like this. Gotta get up." Kukui panted, gripping his leg for a moment as he tried to force his body to move. Amber slowly stalked forward, breathing heavy as she forced her battered body to move. Her Umbral Rhyperior stomped alongside her, snarling softly as Kukui tried to get to his feet. The man stifled a groan of pain as his leg throbbed horribly with pain, trying desperately to get to his feet as Snorlax lay on the ground, unconscious. All Kukui had left was Lycanroc, Braviary and Winter, now.

"You put up a good fight, Professor. But not even that demented god could put down my Umbral Rhyperior. It's gonna take a whole different force of nature to destroy him...And there's not a single person on this island who can take me down." Amber breathed, feeling exhaustion setting in. She had been through a lot today, and while she had a lot of fight left, she was starting to slow down.

"Oh, really? Well shit. Why not try me then?" a new voice spoke up.

Amber and Kukui turned their heads in surprise as a new arrival casually walked towards them, smirking slightly in amusement. The white-haired man was tall and powerfully built, though you wouldn't have been able to immediately guess since he wore a baggy outfit and slouched slightly as he walked towards them. The man wore black pants and a black and white stylized jacket, despite the intense heat. He wore a gold chain around his neck and sunglasses perched on his head, just above his amused gray eyes. He had a purple tattoo and a gold wristwatch on his left forearm.

"You really shouldn't bother with this clown. He's not worth it. Instead, you should focus on me. The hardest guy around in Alola." The new man said with a grin, making Amber cock her head slightly in confusion.

"It's you…" Kukui breathed, his eyes wide in surprise. The man took a moment to acknowledge Kukui with his eyes burning with fury, before slowly returning his attention to the Cipher Admin ahead of him. The man's expression hardened, his fingers moving fidgeting slightly.

"Listen here, bitch. I understand the need to slap this fuckwit around. Trust me, I do. Kukui needs it and totally deserves it. But here's the thing...Ya made a mistake." The man said as he began walking towards Amber, his grey eyes gleaming with anger and excitement and without a single trace of fear. Kukui tried to get to his feet and managed to get into a kneeling stance, but couldn't do more than that as he clutched his damaged leg. Kukui looked up to see the new arrival staring Amber down from only a meter away.

"You fucked with my boys and girls. My family. Team Skull is under my protection, get it? And you and your Cipher freaks hurt them. And I can't forgive that...Nah, you're going to experience a whole new world of pain, ya feel me?" the man breathed, crossing his arms and laughing quietly to himself.

"And just who are you?" Amber asked, sounding almost bored and a little exasperated with all of the interruptions that kept happening. The man smirked in reply, but responded by lashing out with a powerful punch to Amber's face that floored the Admin and knocked her to the ground, sending her helmet bouncing away on the concrete. Kukui's eyes widened in surprise as Avis screeched in surprise.

"He's gotten much quicker with that right hook." Kukui thought after a moment before he caught sight of several members of Team Skull drifting closer to them, eyeing the man that had arrived and the downed form of Amber as she lay on the ground, stunned. A Butterfree fluttered down to the man's shoulders as he let out a dark chuckle, unclipping a Poké Ball from his belt and calling out a massive humanoid bug that Kukui knew very well. The Professor couldn't help the rueful smile as he beheld someone who was once a brother to him, and was now his mortal enemy.

"You Cipher idiots don't know a damn thing about carnage. You want to see real destruction? Well here it is, in human form! It's your boy Guzma!" the Team Skull Boss bellowed, throwing out his arms with a maniacal cackle as Team Skull cheered on their leader.


IT'S YA BOI GUZMA!

God, I hated keeping this secret for so long. I've had this scene planned out for over 70 chapters. Yes, Guzma is officially in the story and I can finally show off my version of the feared Team Skull Boss.

Amber vs. Guzma! Can the dreaded Boss of Team Skull put down the Angel of Death? Will Sun be able to help Adrian Battlestorm stop Dawson? Can Mallow and Kiawe defeat Mask?

Stay tuned, folks!

Q & A

From: Anasazi Darkmoon

So...out of curiosity, how would things have gone down in Hoenn if you'd used Primal Groudon instead of Primal Kyogre?

In another life and another time...Dawson's family would have been spared from Primal Kyogre's wrath. Yes, the heat and infernal sunlight from Primal Groudon would have probably killed some people from heat stroke or exposure, but it would have been nothing compared to the destruction of Kyogre.

Charlie Dawson would live out his childhood alongside his little brother, Jamie, who go on to challenge Steven for the Championship with his brother supporting him by his side, though the boy would lose in that battle. Charlie would see Jamie become a member of the Elite Four thanks to his natural talent as a Trainer, while Charlie himself would become a Pokemon Ranger and fight for the people. The two brothers would live their lives out happily, without ever knowing the darkness of revenge and hatred.

From: Aerithmo

Damn, I knew things were to cheerful. Also, don't think I didn't catch the fact that there were 7 slots in Sun's team! Side Note, wasn't Nate dead?

Nope, Nate's alive. Hilbert is confirmed to be dead, though.

And yeah, the 7 Pokemon rule is something that Champion's are able to take advantage of. Sun's party will expand by one slot after he becomes the Alola League Champion. But who will fill this slot? Heh...You might be surprised.

That's all for now folks. I hope you enjoyed this massive chapter. I've got one more in me before we get to the climax and conclusion of the Tournament Arc, so bear with the insanity as I continue to hammer out chapter's like there's no tomorrow! This next fight is gonna be BRUTAL.

In the meantime, please tell me your thoughts on the chapter by reviewing it in the section below. Your support is very much welcomed! Also, favorite and/or follow the story so you can stay updated with it. Questions will be answered if they are submitted, so send them in. And you can join the conversation and join my Discord! PM me for a link! It's the best way to stay updated with the story.

Take care and stay awesome.

Until next time, FlygonNick out!