He must be stopped, at all costs necessary. If not for the good of this world, then for William, for Ava and Aiden, for all the people he's hurt. I don't care if he's stronger than me. I will put an end to the monster he is, once and for all.
"You've been busy, Orion," said The Consumer, staring at the cloaked man in front of him. "You've assembled yet another group of Chosen to oppose me. A far younger group, to be precise. You're getting desperate, aren't you? What happened to Aiden and Ava? They were some of the most capable choices I've seen, at least until now.
Orion glared at him, his eyes glowing with hatred from beneath his hat. "You and I aren't the same, Leander. I don't use people, I don't treat them like pawns. We're all here because of a purpose that unites us, to put an end to you."
"You're right," said The Consumer, anger flashing across his face. "We are not the same. Where I grew, you were complacent. Where I discovered, you hesitated. You were a failure in so many aspects where I succeeded. But you never liked that, did you? You've never had ambition, since the very beginning!"
"I wasn't lacking in ambition, you were simply consumed by it! Everything you've done, the people you've killed, the terrors you've unleashed upon this world. Tell me Leander, was it worth it? Was it worth becoming the monster you are for the sake of power? For the sake of becoming something so much greater than yourself? WAS IT?"
The Consumer looked at him, his eyes cold. "Yes, Orion. It was worth it. And I'd do it again if I had to. Do you see me now, Orion? I am no longer the man you once knew. I've learned ancient techniques lost to this world, and I've become a Chosen far more powerful than you could ever imagine. Who knows? Maybe you could've become something greater as well. But no, you refused. It was a long ten years. But look what has come out of it. Admit it, Orion, I was right all along."
Orion looked at the people around them. He could see their expressions of determination, confusion, and even suspicion. He closed his eyes, drawing a breath before staring down at The Consumer.
"We're done here. I'll see you in hell once I put an end to you."
The Consumer smiled, spreading his arms. "No, you'll rot there alone."
Orion lunged forward, dark energy glowing from his hands. However, Cynthia was faster, reaching The Consumer first before swinging her sword with both hands.
The Consumer deflected her attack with one arm, using his other to knock her back. Aaron leaped for him, missing as The Consumer weaved around his punch. Orion sent a surge of dark energy flying for him, only for The Consumer to cut through it with a beam of light, striking Orion in the chest.
Suddenly, The Consumer felt a heavy pressure on him as gravity around him began to intensify. Trapped in place, he raised his arms to protect himself as multiple crystalline shards infused with dark energy came flying for him.
Heyden flew in from behind, his body glowing as he summoned Dynamax Energy to strike The Consumer. At the same time, Orion conjured multiple dark wisps around himself, sending them toward The Consumer.
Glowing with light, The Consumer dashed forward, escaping Ali's gravity field. He flew towards her, his fist glowing.
Lewis stepped in front of her, conjuring his barrier to block his attack. Before The Consumer could retaliate, Cynthia and Aaron jumped for him from opposite sides, both of them wielding their swords.
Ethereal blue energy surrounded him as they approached, a weapon forming in his hand.
"Gaia."
A large, two-headed axe with jagged, stone-like edges appeared in his hand. He slammed the hilt into the ground, the earth rising up around him and catching both of them off guard.
"Sorcery as well?" shouted Heyden, gathering Dynamax Energy. "We're doubly dead now!"
The Consumer shattered his earth barrier, flying straight for Lewis. Lewis charged for him, leaping forward with his shield forward.
Instead of hitting him with his shield, however, he summoned his magic barrier mid-flight, using it to strike The Consumer unexpectedly. Landing on the ground, he spun around and threw his shield, forcing The Consumer to block.
As he did so, multiple large pieces of debris came flying for him, each one of them controlled by Ali. Flying through the air, he slashed through each projectile, dodging Heyden's energy spheres at the same time.
Holding Gaia in one hand, The Consumer raised up his other arm, light gathering into his open palm. Multiple spears of light appeared behind him, all of them aimed at the Chosen below.
"Everyone, get back!" shouted Galena, springing forward.
Sliding on rapidly generated crystals, she brought both arms up, raising a glowing crystal wall as The Consumer launched his attacks. The spears of light hit the wall and were reflected, speeding off in the opposite direction.
The Consumer dove for the wall, raising Gaia as he flew. Multiple spikes began growing on the wall, each of them glowing with dark energy before shooting out to hit The Consumer.
He expertly dodged each one, spinning around and shattering multiple spikes as they converged on him.
Suddenly, Aaron and Cyan smashed through the center of the wall, aiming straight for The Consumer. Small platforms grew from the crystal wall, serving as stepping stones for the two sword-wielding Chosen.
Aaron leaped for The Consumer, his sword clashing against Gaia with a powerful clanging sound, sparks flying off the impact.
The Consumer threw him back, only for him to land on a platform and leap back as Cynthia jumped in, swinging her sword rapidly. The Consumer fended off their attacks, using another burst of light from his entire body to knock them away.
"In front of you!" shouted Heyden, flying in from behind The Consumer as he threw an energy-enhanced kick at him.
The Consumer used his axe to block the attack, nearly hitting Heyden as he swung again. Diving to the ground, Heyden exploded upwards with a burst of Dynamax Energy before using it to fire a Dynamax Cannon, energy scattering through the air as The Consumer powered through the attack.
"You wield Eternatus' power as well. No… that shouldn't be possible."
Heyden shrugged. "That's what I tell myself as well."
The Consumer laughed. "In my years of research. I've never come across a Legendary Guardian having two Chosen simultaneously. Two Chosen of the same Legendary shouldn't be possible in the same way there cannot be a Grafted and a Chosen of the same Legendary. You will tell me how this came about. I must know!"
Heyden floated back a bit. He didn't like how earnest this man was in respect to his curiosity. After all, he was supposedly a twisted villain according to the edgy Darkrai man. He didn't need to share any common ground with him.
"I wouldn't tell you even if I did know," said Heyden, powering up. "Who knows, maybe the afterlife holds the key to all knowledge. Please do let me know once you arrive there."
The Consumer darkened. "I see-"
Before he could finish, the crystalline wall shattered, the shrapnel flying straight towards The Consumer. Seeing the attack, The Consumer flew to the ground, slamming Gaia into the earth and sending a powerful shockwave that reduced the crystals into dust.
Orion ran forward, dark spheres surrounding him. The Consumer allowed Gaia to disappear and flew forward, closing the distance between them.
Orion threw the spheres forward, each of them countered by The Consumer's light attacks. As The Consumer tried to strike him, Orion became ghost-like, weaving away from the attacks and reforming to strike The Consumer's chest.
The moment Orion hit him, a purplish mark appeared where he'd made contact. The Consumer tried to attack again but was interrupted as Aaron threw his sword, the horn-shaped blade striking him directly on his shoulder.
"Now!" shouted Orion.
The purple mark on The Consumer triggered, energy exploding around him and causing him to stagger before he could counterattack. Using this opportunity, Lewis charged forward, plowing into The Consumer with his shield out. Despite The Consumer's strength, the force of Lewis' impact was enough to send him careening down the street.
Before he could recover, however, Ali summoned another gravity field, warp gates opening above him at the same time.
From these warp gates came entire building shards, each of them speeding up under the intense gravity and crashing down upon The Consumer.
The Consumer released a burst of light, the buildings around him shattering before they could make an impact. He fought through the intense gravity, trying to escape.
Cynthia approached him, her sword pulsating with energy. She sprinted towards him, the gravity field parting around her.
"O foul being, the scourge of this world! The countless sins you have committed and evils you have wrought upon this world will not go without divine retribution! Hear my name, Consumer of Light. I am Cynthia of the Intrepid Sword! Heavenly Behemoth Blade, grant me your power so I may smite this foe!"
She leaped for The Consumer, his sword nearly tripling in size and becoming much broader in shape as she flew through the air. The Consumer summoned Gaia once more, earth rushing forward as he tried to defend himself.
"Insurmountable Cleave of Divine Power!" shouted Cynthia, bringing her sword down.
With a flash of blue light, she split the wall of earth in two, shattering Gaia and striking The Consumer in the process, breaking through the barrier he had conjured and scoring a gash across his chest armor, white light spilling out.
The Consumer staggered back, putting a hand to his injury. Regaining his composure, he stepped towards Cynthia, who lay exhausted on the floor.
"An impressive effort," said The Consumer, dropping his hand. "But not enough."
"That's what you think," said an angry voice from behind him.
The Consumer turned around, but was too late. A mass of dark shadows formed around him and Orion, enveloping them in a Dark Void.
A dark-haired, silver-eyed man staggered through a dark forest, wearing shredded pants and a tattered shirt, what remained of his thick jacket hanging off his massive frame.
The man was lined with multiple cuts, blood smearing his clothing. His expression was tired and haunted as he staggered through the trees, approaching the yawning cave mouth at the base of the mountain extending in front of him.
There was little time, he had to make it to the tomb, it was his only chance at life now. For the past three days, he'd been starved and relentlessly chased by Pokémon. The Outlands were not a place where a human could survive on his own, but he had to do this. He would show him that he was right, that there was more to be achieved.
He stopped before the cave mouth, looking into the vast darkness. Suddenly, an intense wave of dizziness overtook him, images filling his head as he doubled over. Had he been here before? Everything seemed so familiar, every step he took felt like an action he'd performed before.
He found his hand moving to his pocket as if guided by some unseen voice. He produced a blue crystal. He stared at it in confusion. He'd never seen this before, where could he have gotten it from? Unlike everything else that had transpired, this crystal gave him no feeling of familiarity.
He shook his head, that wasn't important right now. He had to get out of there as fast as he could. Exhaustion had forced him to take a day's rest. The Pokémon pursuing him were no doubt catching up. He'd come too far to give up.
The man walked into the cave, taking a deep breath to calm himself. The eerie darkness surrounded him as he took a few steps, the light from outside fading. Bringing his hands together, blue energy surrounded his hands, forming into a weapon.
"Ignis."
Dual gauntlets appeared around the man's hand, each one of them made from bright crimson metal with maroon strips spiraling around in the shape of fire.
Fire erupted around Ignis, casting a bright glow across the cave. The man looked around, noting the unnatural structure of the cave walls. While they were the appropriate color for a cave formed in a mountain, each wall was unusually smooth, as if it had been sanded.
He walked through the cave, noting more oddities he found. This only proved to him that this cave was either manmade or altered. And if the century-old texts he found were correct, then it wasn't a cave, but a tomb.
A sound behind him pulled him out of his thoughts. Spinning around, he raised his arms as a Luxray plowed into him, knocking him to the ground.
The Luxray roared as electricity gathered in its fur, most likely preparing a Wild Charge. However, something in the back of his mind told him it would use a ranged attack, something unusual for its species.
Trusting in his instincts, the man leaped to the side right as the Luxray lunged forward, firing a Thunderbolt that arced across the cave and struck a wall. Dashing forward, more fire erupted from Ignis as the man drove his fist into the Luxray, sending it flying into a wall as flames surrounded it.
Raising a hand, he sent a jet of fire streaming toward the Pokémon, pinning it against the wall.
Suddenly, another wave of dizziness overcame him, his mind immediately going to the blue crystal in his pocket. His breach of focus caused the Luxray to break free, leaping for him as electricity formed in its jaws.
Shaking himself, the man crouched down as the Luxray bore down on him. Springing upwards, he threw an uppercut into the Luxray's jaw, fire spreading through its body as it flew upwards and hit the ground, unmoving.
The man looked at it, feeling no remorse. Kill or be killed, that was the law of nature. He couldn't afford to show weakness.
Guided by Ignis' light, he continued on his path, moving as swiftly as his injuries allowed. As he walked, he began to notice a change overcome him. He began to feel weaker and weaker as if he was drowning. He couldn't explain where this weakness came from. It wasn't from sorcery overuse or his injuries, it felt like an external force was trying to drag him into dark depths.
The man staggered as he entered a new room, nearly collapsing. Thoughts swam through his head. Was any of this real? What was this sense of Deja vu that continued to haunt him?
Dispelling Ignis, he produced the crystal from his pocket, gazing into its bright blue depths. Clearly, this was the answer to his mystery. He could feel it call out to him, but its message wasn't clear.
Without Ignis' light, he became aware of another source of light within the room. Looking up, he saw purple chains running across a figure suspended beneath a glowing seal in the middle, floating and broken runes transcribed into it.
This was it, this was what he'd been looking for. Getting to his feet, the man staggered over to the seal, removing an inscribed tablet from a pouch slung across his back, using it to translate the runes.
"Imprisoned beneath… Si'- seal is… Zaphael the Undying for treason against- and humanity?" said the man, hesitating at the last part.
The man looked at the figure suspended beneath the seal. None of the texts he'd read ever specified the treason this sorcerer had done, or why he was called the Undying. All he'd been able to glean was that this was a powerful sorcery that fought against the Chosen centuries ago, using a technique inherited from Azazel.
But if he wanted to grow stronger, to learn the techniques lost to this world, then he would have to release this man. He'd come all this way. He swore he would come back, come back triumphant. He wouldn't let a few ancient sentences stop him.
Pulling out a carefully wrapped scroll, he placed a hand upon the seal, feeling a cold sensation fill his body. Pushing through it, he began reciting words from the scroll, both him and the seal glowing a bright red.
A searing pain began to fill the man's body, the natural energy within him igniting and burning him from the inside. Pushing through the pain, he completed the incantation, the barrier shattering like glass and slicing through his skin.
Within the seal was a young-looking man. He had long silver hair that splayed across his bare chest. His body was lined with long scars, red energy flowing through each of them. On his chest was the symbol of two wings, with flames coming from each of them.
Zaphael slumped to the floor, the chains around him fading away. The man brushed the shards of magic off of him, crouching over Zaphael and checking his pulse.
Before his hand could reach him, Zaphael's eyes snapped open, revealing inhuman glowing red eyes. The other man stumbled back, raising his hands.
Zaphael slowly rose to his feet, shifting his body parts slowly and deliberately as he regained control over his body.
"You…" he said, his voice slurred as his eyes fixed on the man before him. "You… freed me."
"Y-Yes I did. Are you… Zaphael the Undying?"
Zaphael paused, considering. "Yes, that is one of my names. But… I go by many others. The Wrathful One… Light's Bane… but my personal favorite is The Voidcaller."
The man froze, his mind spinning. The Voidcaller? But… that wasn't possible! The Voidcaller was an ancient evil from a time way before Zaphael. Not only that, but he'd been defeated and killed by Rayquaza. How could they be the same?
"You have… questions, don't you? But… there must be a reason why… you freed me?"
The man took a breath, he'd come too far to turn back now. He would fulfill his mission, at any cost. "You hold immense power, ancient forms of sorcery lost to this world. I wish to learn from you."
"Why?" asked Zaphael. "The power within you is already great. I can sense it, the same form of power Ozias used when he opposed Azazel."
"I believe there is so much more that humanity can achieve, so much more I can achieve! Everyone around me has grown weak and complacent. I will not be dragged down by them. If it comes to it, I will be the guiding star of humanity, the strongest being to exist. This world is built on strength. Those who are hesitant to seek power, are left behind to die. Tell me, Zaphael. Do you know of the Grafted technique?"
Zaphael's eyes narrowed, his irises flashing. "I know the technique."
"Teach it to me. The Chosen of nowadays are pitiful and weak. I wish for power rivaling that of the original Chosen."
Zaphael considered for a moment. Suddenly, his scars flashed with energy as he rose into the air, throwing his head back as he gave a powerful laugh that echoed throughout the cavern.
"Oh, you poor fool. Just because you freed me from my seal… doesn't mean I'm indebted to you. You were amusing, but I have no need of you. This world belongs to me. You will be the first death in the string of chaos I will cause. Be honored."
The man stepped back in fear, the wave of dizziness overcoming him once more. No… this was wrong. Everything was coming back to him now. He had lived through this before, this was a replication of his memories, but with a twist. Things weren't supposed to go like this. He'd struck a deal with Zaphael.
Then, the man realized what had happened. Ethereal blue energy surrounded him as he produced the glowing crystal from his pocket, gripping it firmly.
"Zephyr."
Zephyr appeared in his hands as he leaped away from the crackling red energy Zaphael threw at him, his wounds miraculously healing. Slamming Zephyr into the ground, he summoned multiple bolts of lightning that struck Zaphael.
"None of this is real!" the man shouted, raising his crystal. "My name is Leander Alexanderson, known by all as The Consumer! This world is but a twisted form of my memories to trap me within nightmares! You no longer hold power over me. Depths of nightmare, I banish you!"
The Consumer shattered the crystal on the floor, blue smoke flying out of it and enveloping the world around him. Everything shimmered like a smoky haze, the world fading away.
The Consumer stood in a white void, his previous appearance replaced with his current armored one. Standing across from him was Orion, who looked completely drained of energy.
"D-Damn you," groaned Orion, struggling to his feet. "How… how did you break free?"
The Consumer smiled, stepping towards him. "Did you really think I've been doing nothing this entire time, twiddling my thumbs as I waited for my subordinates to capture Celica? No, Orion, I'm not that shortsighted. I prepared for a confrontation between us, knowing exactly what you would do. Power isn't the only thing that matters. Strategy and preparation are key. You'd do well to know this."
Light began forming in The Consumer's hand as he pointed it towards Orion. "Now I wonder, what happens if you die in a dream world?"
Orion's eyes widened. But before he could get out of the way, The Consumer fired a brilliant laser that pierced through Orion's chest, causing the white world around them to fade as he collapsed.
"I've become more powerful than your stagnant dreams," he said, turning around.
He raised his arms as Lewis charged for him, digging his feet into the ground as Lewis' shield smashed into him.
"What did you do to him?" shouted Lewis, stepping back.
"A fate that will soon befall you."
Light surged through his body, his arms pointed at Lewis. Suddenly, crystals shot upwards from the ground, deflecting the attack. The crystals pointed towards him and flew forward, smashing against his armor.
He crouched down and leaped backward as Heyden fired a barrage of Dynamax Energy at the same time Galena summoned more crystals. While he was in mid-air, he absorbed the light from Heyden's attack, rendering it useless.
Before he could retaliate, a truck came flying at him. Bracing himself, he caught the truck and used his strength to redirect it towards the Chosen, overriding Ali's gravity manipulation.
Aaron leaped upwards, cutting through the truck as Lewis protected everyone from the debris. Reaching The Consumer, his sword glowed with energy as he swung it, energy exploding as he struck.
"Go to hell!" he shouted, trying to pierce through The Consumer's armor.
Unfortunately, his attempt was unsuccessful, getting knocked to the ground as The Consumer struck him with a claw. Diving down, he landed in front of Galena, swinging his arm towards her as energy gathered in his hands.
"Neptune."
The mystical blue sword appeared, aiming straight for Galena. However, Lewis arrived in time, shoving her out of the way and using his armored body to block the attack.
While the sword wasn't able to harm him directly, ice exploded out of it, freezing him and preventing him from moving. Aaron dashed forward, engaging The Consumer in a sword fight.
The two blades whirled through the air, clashing at lightning-quick speeds. Summoning water around his sword, The Consumer used it to blast Aaron away, which left him open to a counterattack by Galena.
Then, The Consumer realized something. Celica wasn't where he'd last sensed her. Shattering through Galena's crystals, he tried to sense where she had gone and realized her position was rapidly changing, faster than she should be able to move.
The Consumer cursed. The Chosen merely needed to stall him long enough for the girl to escape. He had no choice, he had to end this quickly.
Absorbing more light, he used it to increase the speed and charge at Ali. She'd be the most problematic in this scenario. Gathering light in his fist, he sent it spiraling towards her.
Reacting quickly, she warped a few meters away, dodging the attack. However, The Consumer flew behind her, using an explosive light attack from close range.
"Ali!" shouted Heyden, flying towards them.
Pulling on the Dynamax Energy left over from Melusine's battle. He fired a powerful Eternabeam at The Consumer, forcing him to fly into the air and avoid the attack. At the same time, Galena and Aaron chased after him, Galena firing multiple crystals as he flew.
Running out of options, The Consumer dove down, Neptune glowing with a brilliant blue light.
"Blade of Sea and Frost: Snap Freeze."
With a powerful energy radiating off of him, he stabbed Neptune into the ground, unleashing a powerful shockwave of frost that covered everything in front of him with ice, freezing the Chosen in their tracks. However, using this much energy caused Neptune to fade away in a cloud of blue smoke, leaving only two of his weapons left.
Closing his eyes, he once again sensed Celica's direction. Flying in that direction, he began to passively absorb light to speed himself up. There was time, he would catch up.
"Who and what are you again?" asked Celica, her annoyed question directed at the girl above her.
At least, she thought it was a girl, it was hard to tell with the spiky armor. She'd never seen a Chosen who could assume such a form, assuming it was a Chosen. For all she knew, it could be another one of the Grafted.
"My name is Melusine," said the girl, not looking down.
"And why are you carrying me?"
"Because you collapsed in the middle of a war zone. For someone who is currently being rescued, you're ingratitude is surprising."
Celica huffed, shifting uncomfortably in Melusine's arms. "I didn't need rescuing. It's not like I was caught up in the whole mess."
"There's no reason to lie," said Melusine, her tone unchanging. "I know this entire battle is being fought over you and your abilities."
Celica stiffed. "What makes you say that?"
"If it's any comfort to you. I was able to speak with Gawain briefly while The Consumer was busy dealing with the other Chosen. She told me about the situation."
"Where is she?"
"She stayed behind to fight The Consumer while I took you to safety."
"You don't sound too happy about that."
"The Chosen aren't going to last very long on their own, not even with Gawain's assistance. However, keeping you away from The Consumer is more important than exacting revenge."
"Good luck with that," said Celica, shifting her wings. "Now, could you let go of me? I'm capable of flying on my own."
"It's faster if I carry you."
"I'm not a baby. And I don't even know you!"
A flash of irritation crossed Melusine's face. "Why are you being so difficult?"
"It's my life you're saving! Shouldn't I get a say in how you do so?"
Of all the orphans Melusine had met and talked to before, she had never met someone quite like Celica. Swallowing her irritation, she decided not to say anything.
Looking behind her, she could still see signs of battle in the distance. She hoped she'd be able to get the girl far away enough in time. There was a limit on how fast she could go without risking the girl's life. If everyone else weren't able to stop him, he'd just have to fight him herself.
The Consumer flew down the street, nearing Celica's location. He could sense her power growing stronger and stronger by the second. Even without his intervention, the Grafted sorcery within her was growing.
A person stood atop a collapsed building, awaiting him. Slowing down, he recognized the person and their shining armor, the sword they carried sheathed.
"We meet again," said The Consumer, coming to a stop. "You didn't seem like the kind to run from a fight."
Gawain's eyes narrowed. "Don't mistake my intentions. I know exactly what you're after. It was only a matter of time before you came in this direction."
"So, you intend to slow me down long enough for your companion to escape."
"I intend to defeat you."
The Consumer laughed. "Go ahead and try."
Gawain didn't hesitate. She stomped her foot into the ground, causing multiple ruptures to form and explode outwards, sending a torrent of earth crashing towards The Consumer.
He flew into the air, dodging the attack and diving for Gawain. Raising her arm up, she created an earth wall and cut off his advance, forcing him upwards.
Suddenly, the earth wall exploded, each stone shard flying for him and forcing him to expend some of his light to defend himself. As he flew low to the ground, it began to bubble before turning to magma and exploding upwards, blasting him into the air.
"Zephyr."
Right as the mystical weapon formed in his hand, Gawain summoned multiple fire spears behind him. Spinning Zephyr around, he conjured a powerful wind that dissipated the flames.
"Quite the remarkable set of powers you have there," said The Consumer, floating above the ground. "Perhaps we're both descended from Ozias. After all, our elemental sorcery is quite powerful."
"We're nothing alike."
"Am I that detestable of a person?"
"Yes."
The Consumer cracked a smile. "No hesitation either. Tell me, girl. What do you dream of? What drives you?"
"That's not something I wish to discuss with the likes of you. Know this, Consumer. People like you are beyond redemption. You've thrown the entire world into turmoil for your own gain, reawakened a conflict between two sides, and exploited the life of an innocent girl. Here's a question for you: How do you still find a reason to continue? After all the crimes you have done?"
"It's simple. It's kill or be killed, take or be taken from. I'm simply among those who took initiative. I don't need an elaborate excuse for acting on human nature, to want to thrive in this world. And to do that, you need power."
"If that's what you believe, then maybe you don't know much about humanity after all."
The Consumer frowned, Zephyr glowing. "I seem to have wasted quite a lot of time here. It was fun speaking with you. But if you value your life, then step aside."
"On my honor as knight, I will never let you have your way."
"So be it."
The Consumer exploded forward, using his absorbed light to briefly increase his speed. Before Gawain realized it, he'd already closed the distance between them and thrust Zephyr towards her chest.
Raising her hands, she caught Zephyr with her hands, using sheer strength alone to prevent it from piercing past her armor.
The Consumer realized that while it had penetrated her armor, there was an earth-like layer beneath. Before he could react, Gawain gave a powerful roar, her eyes glowing as she threw him back, the earth rising up and encasing him.
Gawain fell to one knee, the light fading from their eyes as she began to black out from exhaustion.
There was a powerful roar of wind as the earth encasing The Consumer exploded, the wind sending everything around him flying. Zephyr disintegrated in his hands as he stepped forward, its energy expended.
He'd spent too much time, too much energy. He made a mistake, choosing to hunt for the girl alone. It was time for him to finish this, nothing would stop him.
Melusine and Celica had made it past the main battle zone, the signs of destruction having faded. According to Melusine, they were nearly at their destination. All that was left was to find a way for Celica to hide.
"Something's wrong," said Celica, craning her neck to look behind her.
"What is it?"
Celica remained silent for a moment. "He's approaching."
Melusine cursed softly. She had expected him to be strong, obviously, but this was an entirely new level.
"Listen. I'm going to let you go, and you will continue northeast until you reach a military base. There's already a transport waiting to take you."
"You can't beat him alone."
"No offense, but having you along won't make much of a difference," she said, letting go of Celica. "Now go."
Celica turned around, glaring at her. "This is suicide you know."
"I didn't live this long to die at the hands of a fraudulent Chosen. Don't make our efforts wasted by staying here and arguing."
Celica looked like she was going to say more, but closed her mouth and flew off.
Melusine didn't watch her leave, turning in the direction of The Consumer's approach and shooting off.
A glowing light from below caught her attention. She dove downwards, her spear snapping into her hands from where it flew beside her.
The Consumer briefly touched the ground and leaped away as she descended, the ground exploding from her impact. She stabbed her spear into the ground, causing wells of poisonous fluid to erupt from across the ground.
"I should've known you wouldn't stay down for long," said The Consumer, his armor turning golden as it filled with light.
Melusine braced herself. She'd already seen how fast he could move with enough light. However, The Consumer didn't charge for her, instead shooting off in the opposite direction.
Melusine cursed, knowing where he was going. Dynamax Energy surged through her body as she flew after him, the ground exploding as she took off.
Despite the intensity of her takeoff, the gap between them showed no signs of closing. Sending Dynamax Energy through her arm, her spear exploding forward, energy trailing off of it.
The blade streaked through the air, closing the distance between it and The Consumer in seconds. The Consumer twisted in mid-air, nearly dodging the spear as it flew.
However, the spear suddenly spun around in mid-air, striking The Consumer on its return trip. Melusine slammed into him as he recovered from the attack, slamming him into the ground and sending shockwaves that pulverized nearby buildings.
"Ignis."
Two gauntlets formed on The Consumer's hands as he kicked Melusine away. Bringing his hands together, an intense flame began gathering around him, the rubble around him beginning to melt.
"Gauntlets of Inferno: Hell Flame."
The Consumer threw his hands out, summoning a deluge of spiraling flames from Ignis that enveloped the city in front of him, the sheer heat causing the road to bubble and turn to magma.
The Consumer flew upwards in pursuit of Celica, closing the distance between them in a matter of seconds. With a surge of light, he sped forward, slamming his hand into Celica's chest and throwing her to the ground.
"So many allies," he said, rising to his feet. "Yet they weren't enough. All of their struggles, their persistence. It was all for naught. Do you realize now, girl? The Grafting ritual you thought you managed to escape, was only delayed. There's no need for me to set up another ritual, not when all that's needed to complete the first is a little nudge."
"Let go of me!" shouted Celica, thrashing under his grip.
The Consumer ignored her, his hand glowing with gold energy as he placed it on Celica's forehead, the glow intensifying.
"Awaken your true power. Vessel of Lunala."
A powerful glow wrapped Celica, the roar of energy drowning out any sound she made. She rose into the air, her eyes glowing as her wings began blazing with powerful energy. Her hair became a deep purple as curved horns grew from her head.
Celica fell to the ground, falling unconscious. The Consumer grabbed her face, his body glowing as he began to drain the light from her.
A purple streak of energy flew at The Consumer, forcing him to let go of Celica and raise his arms to defend himself. As he flew backward and landed on the ground, he saw that his attacker was none other than Melusine.
The Consumer stared at her in disbelief. At first glance, she hadn't seemed to suffer any damage from his attack. But there was something different about her. Almost as if her power had diminished considerably.
"You… you're not human, are you?"
Melusine didn't react. "What makes you think that?"
"You couldn't have possibly survived my attack unscathed, not even with that armor of yours. Had you been unscathed, you wouldn't have taken as long as you did to reach me. Somehow, you recovered from my attack in a way Eternatus' Chosen shouldn't be able to. Not to mention there are two of you. These two facts, in conjunction with this form you've taken, all point towards this truth. So tell me, girl. Who are you?"
Melusine spun her spear around, pointing it at him. "Let's see if you live long enough to find out."
The Consumer laughed his hand glowing white. "No need. I've already achieved what I wanted. There's no need for me to stick around."
Before Melusine could attack, an Ultra Wormhole appeared behind The Consumer, swallowing him and closing before Melusine could reach him. She landed on the ground with a curse, barely a meter away from where The Consumer stood.
Shaking her head, she allowed the dragon-like armor covering her to fade away in a cloud of Dynamax Energy. She walked over to Celica, crouching down to check on her.
Fortunately, the girl was only unconscious. Power still flowed through her wings and now present horns, meaning that The Consumer hadn't absorbed too much power.
Melusine straightened, aware of a presence behind her. Turning around, she saw a large warp gate open behind her, Ali stepped out slowly.
"Melusine," said Ali, fully exiting the portal. "Are you okay?"
"Yes. The Consumer got away though, and he did something to Celica. She seems to be part Pokémon now."
"It's as I feared," said a new voice from within the portal. From it stepped a somewhat short man with dark hair tied back in a long ponytail. He wore a slightly charred red and blue hoodie and cracked glasses "The Grafted process is complete.".
Melusine looked at him. "Who are you?"
Just as she said that more people emerged from the portal. Aaron, Heyden, Cyan, Galena, and a Lewis-assisted Orion emerged from the portal.
"My name is Gladio Turner, Deoxys' Chosen. I was protecting Celica so that this exact thing wouldn't happen. But it seems I was too late."
Melusine frowned. "Gawain never mentioned your name."
"I hadn't met her before the incident with Andras. And these Chosen over here," he said, indicating the people behind him. "I just met. I should probably give you guys the chance to introduce yourselves."
Heyden jumped at the opportunity, sticking his hand out to Melusine with a grin on his face. "Hi, I'm-"
"Shut up," said Melusine, walking past him. "My name is Melusine. I take it most of you haven't met each other?"
"Well," said Galena, indicating Lewis, Aaron, and Orion. "We came as a group along with Ali, Heyden, Cynthia, Cyan, and Luke. I'm Galena by the way."
Now Melusine was confused. "Gawain never mentioned you. She said there was only a group of four Chosen."
Galena paused, a sheepish look on her face. "That's… uhh… we'll worry about that later. Trust me, it's a long story."
"Never mind," said Melusine, looking around. "Where's Gawain?"
"She was injured fighting The Consumer," said Ali, speaking up. "Kai and Cynthia have gone out to locate everyone else. I was just about to join them after checking on you."
"Thank you," said Melusine before turning to Orion. "You mentioned something about 'Grafting'. Would you mind explaining?"
Gladio nodded. "Of course. From what I gathered, there's a special kind of sorcery that allows the caster to force the powers of a Legendary Pokémon upon someone through a special ritual. In Celica's case, this ritual wasn't completed… until now."
Orion cursed, walking over to Celica and kneeling down. "This… this is what Leander was searching for. I saw it in his dreams, he learned this technique from The Voidcaller. Not only that, but he was the one who released him from his ancient seal."
"Right," said Heyden, spinning around. "I've been meaning to ask you, Mr. Man in Black. You seem to know The Consumer very, very well. I don't know about everyone else here, but I'm typically on a first-name basis with people I actually know and care about. Hence why I don't refer to moody princess over there by name."
Orion sighed, turning around. "That's a painful story. One I don't wish to share."
Heyden's eyes narrowed. "I think we have a right to hear this painful story of yours. From what I can tell, part of The Consumer's motive involves you to some degree. If we're going to be fighting against him, then I think we deserve to know his entire deal."
Aaron grabbed Heyden by the shoulder. "Hey! Don't be such a dick."
Heyden brushed his hand away. "I'm not going into this blind. If he knows stuff about the Consumer, then he should spill it already."
" If he doesn't want to talk about it, then let him be. Isn't protecting those you care about a good enough reason to fight?"
"I don't- not for me it is. Not everyone is meant to be a selfless hero. I'm not going to sacrifice my life fighting someone only to realize that this whole thing would've been preventable if someone had just done the right thing."
Lewi stepped forward. "I think we got off the wrong-"
Aaron held up a hand for Lewis to stop, staring at Heyden. "How can you even speak like that? No one can tell the future, no matter what he did, he couldn't have known! And that's even if what happened was because of him which we don't know yet."
"I believe being able to see into people's dreams can tell you a lot about a person and their situation. Heck, even reading emotions can tell you a lot. For example, I can tell you're that one guy who'd jump into conflict without thinking first. I'd suggest not being so hotheaded all the time, doesn't help much."
Aaron glared at him. "Is that how it's going to be?" he asked, his voice rising.
"Just stating a fact," Heyden shot back.
Before the tension could rise any further, Galena stepped in between them, her hands close to her ears.
"Can you two stop fighting?" she pleaded, looking at them. "You just met, all of you. I get that so many things are happening, but please."
"No," said Orion, standing up. "The boy is right. I should-"
Suddenly, there was a movement from behind him. Celica's eyes fluttered open, still glowing with a lavender light as she got to her feet.
"Celica!" said Gladio, heading towards her. "Are you-"
He had scarcely taken a few steps when she raised her hand, bright energy exploding outwards and striking Gladio in the chest, sending him flying into Heyden and Aaron.
"Celica?" asked Orion, stepping back. "Hey, it's me!"
"Begone."
With a flash of light, Celica's wings flared with energy as she fired a Moongeist Beam. Lewis jumped forward, his armor appearing around him as he summoned his shield, deflecting the attack into a building.
"What's going on?" he asked, summoning his magical barrier to ward off another attack.
"I don't know," said Orion. "She's not herself right now!"
"Do we attack?" asked Melusine, her hands glowing. "Holding back may not be an option if she's reached a level of power similar to The Consumer."
Orion didn't get to formulate a response as Lewis' barrier began to crack, forcing everyone to scatter as he released it, a powerful beam of energy raining down and causing the ground to explode.
Ice began swirling around the area as Cyan summoned a blizzard, sending ice and snow to try and incapacitate Celica. However, Celica simply summoned a mass of shadows to protect herself, sending the shards of ice flying backward.
"Celica!" shouted Orion, summoning multiple dark spheres. "Stop this, we're your allies! Don't you recognize me?"
Celica looked at him, her eyes dismissive. "No."
There was a noise from above as a large military helicopter flew over, a figure leaning out with a megaphone.
"Everyone! Get down and eyes closed!"
"Do as he says!" shouted Aaron, getting to the floor.
No sooner than he'd done so, multiple sphere-shaped objects fell from the helicopter, hitting the ground and exploding with a blinding light. Celica screamed and fell to the ground as she was blinded.
"Took you long enough, Seth!" said Aaron.
The helicopter began to descend as Seth pointed the megaphone to them. "Everyone get in!"
Before the helicopter could descend far enough. The world began to shake as it turned purple, energy shooting through the air as Ultra Wormholes began to open.
The helicopter was forced to ascend as a portal opened near it. All around the Chosen, more portals began to open. These ones however didn't seem to be pulling anything in.
Melusine flew towards Celica, intent on stopping her before she could cause any more portals Suddenly, gray bricks with blue eyes flew out of the portal nearest to her, assembling themselves into a wall in front of her.
At the same time, a purple creature with two wings and a massive tail with a stinger flew out of a portal. Another creature that looked suspiciously like a bundle of wires slithered out of another.
Cyan turned around as a familiar-looking creature appeared behind her, its two massive red arms bulging with muscle.
"T-These a-are U-Ultra Beasts!" she said, stepping back.
"And so many of them," said Orion as three more began to emerge. "Someone grab Gladio, we need to escape from her as fast as possible!"
"It may be too late for that," said Aaron, helping Gladio to his feet. "They've surrounded us."
He was right. Behind them were the Stakataka, Celica, and a newly emerging Nihilego. In front of them was a Buzzwole, a Xurkitree, and two more Nihilego. Escaping upwards wasn't an option either due to the Naganadel, which was currently attacking the military helicopter.
"I've never seen these creatures organized like this," said Gladio, his voice slurred from having suddenly regained consciousness.
"You know of these creatures?" asked Melusine.
"From my home world. They're extremely dangerous Pokémon and are known as Ultra Beasts. The Aether Foundation did extensive research on them and created the Pokémon Type: Null as a way to combat them."
"Do you know how to defeat them?" asked Lewis.
"In our current state. We don't stand a chance. Our best option is to try and break through one direction and run."
"We need to get a message to Seth," said Lewis. "That military helicopter has a missile, right?"
"No," said Aaron sarcastically. "It's a perfectly weapon-free military helicopter."
"That's worrying. Why is it a military helicopter then?"
"Never mind. We need someone who can f-"
Without finishing his sentence, he leaped away as the Buzzwole flew forward, swinging its fist toward him. Ice began forming up its legs as Cyan touched her hands to the ground, sending ice through everything touching it.
"This way!" shouted Lewis, charging forward with his shield out. The Xurkitree scrambled for him, but its attack was blocked by a swarm of earth-infused crystals. At the same time. Melusine flew into the air, followed by Heyden as the two of them attacked the Nihilego.
Aaron jumped forward, summoning his sword and striking at one of the Nihilego as Melusine fired a Dynamax Cannon. The Ultra Beast flew away from the attack, striking him with one of its tentacles.
Aaron hit the ground, rolling away from another Buzzwole punch. This time, he was too slow and was launched into the air by the sheer force of its attack.
Gladio flew upwards and caught him, his appendages appearing and firing a ball of psychic energy at the Naganadel as it attacked, nearly avoiding the poisonous sludge it fired from its tail.
As Galena, Lewis, and Cyan tried fighting their way through the Xurkitree, the Buzzwole flew in from behind, aiming straight for Galena before the latter realized.
Before anyone could issue a warning, another Ultra Wormhole opened. This time, however, a powerful fiery light smashed into the Buzzwole, sending it hurtling through a building.
Standing there, glowing with enough light to rival the sun, was Solgaleo.
"Flee while you can, Chosen." Said Solgaleo, the light surrounding it as it powered up for another strike. "This world strengthens Ultra Beasts, we can only buy time for your escape."
"We?" asked Heyden.
Right as he said that, another Ultra Wormhole appeared. Another Solgaleo burst out of this one, plowing into both Nihilego and hitting the ground with a powerful roar.
"This is our opportunity," said Orion, looking up as the helicopter descended towards them. "Everyone, get over here!"
Everyone headed towards the Helicopter as the first Solgaleo charged into battle, aiming for the Stakataka.
As Gladio neared the helicopter, the second Solgaleo jumped in front of him, its head bowed.
"Wait. I sense a familiar feeling from you. Tell me, Chosen, are you from this world?"
"No, Master Solgaleo," said Gladio, unsure how he should dress the legendary in his awe. "I fell through an Ultra Wormhole created within the Aether Foundation."
The Solgaleo seemed to start at this. "Do you know of a girl named Lillie?"
Gladio paused. "She was the president's daughter. But… she died in an accident years ago."
"She did not die. I too, am from your world. However, my powers activated without choice when I was still a Cosmog. My use of my abilities caused me and Lillie to be sent to this world, where I evolved into a Cosmoem and later into a Solgaleo. I do not know what became of Lillie. My duties as Solgaleo's disciple have made me unable to search for her. I fear for her life, this world is not a forgiving one. Please, assist me in locating her. Now that I have reached my mature state, I have the power to send her home, as well as you."
Gladio nodded. "Of course. There is someone I'm searching for in this world as well. I will not fail you, Solgaleo."
"Thank you. May Arceus guide you. Now go, young Chosen. This is a fight I must face. The Ultra Beast cannot be allowed to roam freely."
Gladio nodded once more and dashed off towards the helicopter, leaping into it as it took off.
"What was that about?" asked Heyden.
"I-I just spoke face to face with a Legendary Pokémon," said Gladio, his head spinning.
"Well duh," said Heyden. "That much is clear."
"Now's not the time," said Orion. "Things are falling apart faster than I'd anticipated."
"But The Consumer doesn't have his hands on Celica," said Lewis. "Strictly speaking, her new state should make it easier for her to defend herself."
"Yeah," said Aaron ."And unleash a horde of Ultra Beasts into this world while she's at it!"
"Right."
"At least we're all still here," said Galena. "By the way, nice timing, Seth."
Seth waved the compliment away. "I didn't really do anything. It was Cynthia who told me about that one soldier who was willing to provide vehicles and stuff. I just had Ali drop me off while you guys went and did all the real fighting."
"Speaking of Ali," said Heyden. "I'm assuming she'll meet us in the mansion once she's rescued everyone else?"
"Mansion?" asked Lewis.
"Why do you sound surprised?" asked Melusine. "Things have changed. We're dealing with much larger treats now. Having Chosen in hiding won't do us any good. Make sure all of you prepare yourselves for meeting Aurora. If we want to stand any a chance against beating The Gloom Organization, you can't work alone."
Orion gravely. "Even with her support. A chance may be all we stand."
Hey guys, sorry for the late (And really long) chapter. Between my computer giving up and my life not being so great, I haven't found much time or motivation to work on my fanfiction. I am feeling somewhat better now, but I can't guarantee I'll have a constant posting schedule (I'll try not to disappear for more than a week and a half). Thank you for understanding. The next chapter shouldn't be as monstrously long as this one (I know I promised that last time, but I'm being for real this time). See you next time!