Chapter Summaries

Key Plot Points and Events

• Alakazam (Master Hu) joins the "Dark Hunters" to restart the Ultimate Weapon, aiming to end it once and for all.
• He guides Mewtwo to protect Xiao Ai, his first clone, and sets up a prophecy involving Mewtwo, Volcanion, Xerneas, and a human figure.
• Master Hu builds a school in the Johto Region, recruiting Pokémon to help and teach, including Rhydon and Natu.
• He meets Champion Chen Mo and studies human knowledge, occasionally encountering Entei and the other two Legendary Pokémon.
• Master Hu meets Yan Yang, believes him to be the "variable" he's looking for, and guides him. They take a group photo together.
• Master Hu returns to the "Dark Hunters," prepares for the final operation, and says his final goodbye to Yan Yang before dissipating.

Character Developments

• Master Hu: Struggles with his eternal existence, seeks an end, and tries to be more amiable and kind. He guides Yan Yang and leaves a final gift for him.
• Yan Yang: Grows up surrounded by Pokémon, meets Master Hu, and forms a bond with him. He is guided by Master Hu and Entei.

Significant Themes

• Eternal existence and the desire for an end.
• Guidance and mentorship (Master Hu guiding Yan Yang, Pokémon at the school).
• The power of bonds between humans and Pokémon (Yan Yang and Entei, Yan Yang and the Pokémon at the school).

Character Interactions

• Master Hu and Yan Yang: Master Hu guides Yan Yang, and they form a bond. They take a group photo together before Master Hu's final dissipation.
• Master Hu and Entei: They cross paths occasionally, and Master Hu reminds Entei to take care of Yan Yang differently.
• Master Hu and the Pokémon at the school: He teaches and guides them, forming a community at the school. He doesn't bid them a final farewell, wanting them to forget him.
• Master Hu and Champion Chen Mo: They meet, and Master Hu studies human knowledge through him.

• Yan Yang and his team return to the Fossil Research Institute after their adventure.
• They bid farewell to Volcanion, with Yan Yang vowing to return in a year.
• Yan Yang leaves Pyroar and Lycanroc with the Pyroar pack, promising to return for them.
• Upon arrival at the institute, Yan Yang is greeted warmly by colleagues, including Pita, who is curious about Yan Yang's connection to the Champion.
• Larvitar is returned to the institute for care and is surprisingly cooperative.
• Yan Yang visits his Pokémon in the ecological zone, where Cosmoem and Abra are both asleep and showing signs of evolution.
• Pyroar is displeased with the addition of Abra but refrains from bullying him due to Yan Yang's instructions.
• Armorouge is prevented from approaching Yan Yang by Houndoom and Curse Flame.
• Grovyle and Lycanroc listen to Silvally's account of their adventure.
• Yan Yang discusses his performance with Entei, who praises him but advises caution in future operations.
• Yan Yang looks forward to meeting Champion Lucario the next day, hoping for substantial rewards.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Champion Lucario visits Yan Yang at the Fossil Research Institute to discuss the recent events.
• Lucario shares that she's gathered information from the arrested researcher, Eternal Flower, and King Za.
• Yan Yang recounts his experiences, omitting details about Master Hu and the "guide."
• Lucario awards Yan Yang the title of 'Kalos Guardian of Honor' and offers an Evolution Stone for Pyroar and a high-tier fishing rod as rewards.
• She also gives Yan Yang gifts from the children he rescued at the Peridot Hostel School.
• Lucario discusses the League Headquarters' explosion and the ongoing pursuit of the 'Dark Hunters' remnants.
• Yan Yang reveals his intention to return to his hometown to continue his studies.

Character Developments

• Lucario shows admiration and scrutiny towards Yan Yang's capabilities.
• Yan Yang remains indifferent to conventional rewards but is interested in the Evolution Stone and fishing rod.
• Yan Yang feels touched by the children's gifts, showing a softer side.

Significant Themes

• Recognition and rewards for heroic deeds.
• The consequences of past actions (League Headquarters explosion, 'Dark Hunters' remnants).
• The importance of education and personal growth (Yan Yang's decision to return to school).

Character Interactions

• Lucario and Yan Yang have a formal yet cordial conversation, with Lucario showing respect for Yan Yang's accomplishments.
• Yan Yang and Entei interact subtly, with Entei nudging the gifts from the children.
• The research institute members outside the reception room listen in, feeling astonished and honored by Yan Yang's achievements.

• Yan Yang decides to return to Johto after seeing off Champion Lucario.
• He interacts with his companions, Agate and Ruan Zhu, via a group chat, discussing his return and their upcoming reunion.
• Yan Yang goes on a farewell tour of Kalos, visiting significant towns and locations from his past adventures.
• He reflects on his experiences and interactions with various characters, including Uncle An, Xiao Ai, and Jerry.
• Yan Yang ends his journey in Kinan City, where he encounters Jerry again and learns about a heroic Trainer from the League's secret honors.
• The chapter concludes with Yan Yang's thoughts on patents for Pledge Moves and his pragmatic approach to continuing his story.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Yan Yang visits the former Iris Elite Boarding School and finds it now a Pokémon playground.
• He encounters many familiar Pokémon, including Iron Treads, who avoids him.
• Yan Yang uses the teleportation crystal to return to the Johto Region.
• He reunites with his childhood Pokémon friends and hears about their recent victory against a Tyranitar.

Character Developments

• Yan Yang shows maturity and responsibility in handling his return and the news about Master Hu.
• The childhood Pokémon friends have grown stronger and more united, capable of protecting their home.

Significant Themes

• The passage of time and change (the transformation of the school and the growth of the Pokémon).
• The importance of unity and cooperation (the Pokémon working together to protect their home).
• The bittersweet nature of parting and moving forward (Yan Yang's acceptance of Master Hu's likely permanent departure).

Character Interactions

• Yan Yang reconnects with his childhood Pokémon friends, sharing laughter and joy.
• Rhydon struggles with accepting Master Hu's possible permanent departure.
• Yan Yang considers rewarding Armorouge for its efforts but decides against it to keep his secret base hidden.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Yan Yang visits his childhood forest and asks about the adventure team (Pikachu, Togepi, Skrelp, and Mew).
• The Pokémon mention the team's recent return and good health.
• Yan Yang takes photos of his companions and the forest scenery.
• Entei takes Yan Yang for a ride around the forest.

Character Developments

• Yan Yang shows concern for his Pokémon friends and their well-being.
• Entei remains a steadfast and majestic figure, proud of the territory he chose.
• Armorouge reflects on its past training methods and wishes for more alone time with Yan Yang.

Significant Themes

• Nostalgia and longing for the past.
• The passage of time and growth.
• The bond between humans and Pokémon.

Character Interactions

• Yan Yang interacts with his childhood Pokémon friends, showing affection and concern.
• Entei and Yan Yang share a tender moment, highlighting their strong bond.
• Armorouge reflects on its relationship with the other Pokémon and Yan Yang.
• Lycanroc offers to take care of Larvitar, showing kindness and understanding.
• Grovyle demonstrates its new ability, creating grass in the forest.
• Houndoom reminisces about its past and the kindness shown by the forest's inhabitants.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Pikachu, Togepi, and Mew explore a dense forest near the Johto region.
• Mew guides them to the World Tree, a colossal, mystical tree hidden from the world.
• Mew reveals the World Tree is its home and shares its power.
• Skrelp asks Mew to heal its congenital defect in exchange for helping the World Tree.

Character Developments

• Pikachu: Shows leadership and concern for its friends.
• Togepi: Demonstrates loyalty and innocence, willing to help Skrelp.
• Skrelp: Struggles with feelings of inadequacy and a desire to evolve, seeking Mew's help.
• Mew: Maintains boundaries while showing compassion towards its companions.

Significant Themes

• Friendship: Pikachu and Togepi support Skrelp, demonstrating their bond.
• Growth and Evolution: Skrelp's desire to evolve and become stronger.
• Sacrifice: Skrelp agrees to help the World Tree in exchange for healing.

Character Interactions

• Pikachu and Togepi support Skrelp, showing unity and concern.
• Mew and Skrelp: Mew agrees to help Skrelp, setting conditions for the exchange.
• Mew and Togepi: Mew is amused by Togepi's innocent actions but maintains boundaries.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Pikachu and Togepi reach the Sinnoh Region after a challenging journey.
• They encounter friendly Pokémon in a forest who mention humans helping them.
• They meet a distressed Chimchar who was abandoned by its Trainer.
• Pikachu and Togepi decide to take Chimchar into their adventuring team.

Character Developments

• Pikachu demonstrates leadership and wisdom in handling situations.
• Togepi shows empathy and enthusiasm in comforting Chimchar.
• Chimchar learns to consider joining a Pokémon team instead of human Trainers.

Significant Themes

• The relationship between Pokémon and humans, with Pokémon having their own agency and choices.
• The importance of understanding and supporting each other among Pokémon.
• The theme of adventure and exploring the world.

Character Interactions

• Pikachu and Togepi work together to help Chimchar, showing teamwork.
• Pikachu reassures Chimchar about joining their team, displaying understanding and acceptance.
• Togepi's enthusiasm and Chimchar's timidity create a contrast in their personalities.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Chimchar joins Pikachu's adventuring party, serving as a guide to Twinleaf Town.
• The Pokémon decide to replenish their supplies in town, with Chimchar initially hesitant about taking human things.
• Pikachu and Togepi lead Chimchar towards Twinleaf Town, with Chimchar reflecting on its past experiences with its Trainers.

Character Developments

• Chimchar: Reflects on its past experiences with Trainers, feeling lonely and unwanted. It decides to embrace its new journey with Pikachu and Togepi.
• Pikachu: Shows concern for Chimchar's well-being, understanding its past struggles.

Significant Themes

• The bond between Pokémon and Trainers.
• The struggle of Pokémon without Trainers.
• The joy of discovery and freedom in the vast world.

Character Interactions

• Pikachu and Chimchar: Pikachu shows understanding and acceptance of Chimchar's past, while Chimchar finds new hope and companionship with Pikachu.
• Chimchar and Togepi: Chimchar is influenced by Togepi's excitement and willingness to take human things, despite its initial hesitation.

Additional Information

• A secret communication between Chi Lian and Cheng Yu reveals Chi Lian's interest in Yan Yang (the protagonist) and his plans to monitor him.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Yan Yang returns to his home in the Johto Region after a long absence.
• He finds that his Pokémon have been managing the house well in his absence.
• Nidoking has evolved into a Nidoking and played a crucial role in defending their home from intruders.
• Yan Yang creates a new "companionship schedule" to spend quality time with each of his eleven Pokémon.

Character Developments

• Nidoking evolves into a Nidoking, becoming more robust and majestic, and gains confidence in its new form.
• Yan Yang shows growth in responsibility, creating a schedule to ensure equal companionship with all his Pokémon.
• Happiny remains content with its current form and doesn't envy the ability to evolve.

Significant Themes

• The cycle of reunions and goodbyes, and how one gradually accepts their unpredictability.
• The importance of companionship and equal attention among multiple Pokémon.
• The acceptance of one's current form and the choice not to evolve (as seen in Happiny).

Character Interactions

• Yan Yang interacts with his evolved Nidoking, expressing pride and approval of its new form.
• Nidoking and Happiny share a moment of camaraderie after defending their home together.
• Yan Yang communicates his new companionship schedule to his Pokémon, receiving mostly approval and excitement.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Yan Yang returns home to find his Larvitar causing destruction, chewing on furniture and attempting to bite the TV.
• He scolds the Larvitar and threatens to kick it out if it misbehaves again.
• A group of Pokémon, led by an Alolan Persian, attacks Yan Yang's home. They are quickly defeated by Yan Yang's team, with Entei not needing to intervene.
• Liepard Construction arrives to repair the damage caused by the Larvitar.

Character Developments

• The Larvitar shows a sense of belonging to Yan Yang's home but struggles with expressing it appropriately.
• Yan Yang demonstrates patience and understanding towards the Larvitar's behavior.
• Houndour shows growth and maturity by not holding a grudge against the Alolan Persian that once injured it.
• Nidoking expresses a desire to become stronger like Yan Yang's other Pokémon.

Significant Themes

• Belonging and family.
• Growth and maturity.
• Strength and power dynamics among Pokémon.

Character Interactions

• Yan Yang interacts with the Larvitar, scolding it but ultimately showing understanding and care.
• Yan Yang's Pokémon team works together to defend their home against the invading Pokémon.
• Yan Yang interacts with A Qiang from Liepard Construction, expressing his reluctance to see them frequently due to the constant repairs needed.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Yan Yang returns to school after a month's absence.
• He leaves Larvitar with Banette to help it break its destructive biting habit.
• Yan Yang finds his dorm room untouched and releases his Pokémon.
• The Substitute plush toy comes to life, revealing a resentful consciousness.
• Yan Yang's roommate, Bu Xiang, discovers Yan Yang's return and his new Pokémon, including an artificial one.

Character Developments

• Yan Yang shows responsibility and concern for Larvitar's well-being, despite leaving it with Banette.
• The Substitute plush toy gains a resentful consciousness, displaying a sarcastic and critical personality.
• Bu Xiang shows curiosity and envy towards Yan Yang's new Pokémon, particularly the artificial one.

Significant Themes

• Responsibility: Yan Yang takes responsibility for Larvitar's behavior, even if it means leaving it with Banette temporarily.
• Change and Adaptation: The Substitute plush toy adapts to its new state of consciousness, finding a suitable host in Curse Flame.
• Acceptance of Differences: Bu Xiang accepts and shows interest in Yan Yang's new, unfamiliar Pokémon, including an artificial one.

Character Interactions

• Yan Yang interacts with the resentful consciousness in the Substitute plush toy, learning about its past and agreeing not to abuse it further.
• Bu Xiang interacts with Yan Yang upon his return, expressing envy at his new Pokémon and rushing off to work.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Yan Yang returns to school after a month-long absence.
• He receives a call from Champion Wang Yan, who expresses concern and reprimands him for not following proper leave procedures.
• Yan Yang repairs Armorouge's cape, and the Pokémon leaves immediately afterward.
• At school, Yan Yang is greeted with surprise and rumors about his absence. He's hailed as the "Big Bro" by classmates Xiao Hao and Panda.
• Teacher Shen E announces the upcoming high school league, which will take place at the Johto League headquarters. It will include singles, doubles, and team battles.

Character Developments

• Yan Yang shows concern for his Pokémon and their expenses, hinting at his growing responsibilities as a Trainer.
• Champion Wang Yan displays his protective and worried side towards Yan Yang.
• Teacher Shen E shows enthusiasm and high expectations for the upcoming league.

Significant Themes

• Responsibility: Yan Yang's growing awareness of his duties as a Trainer, both in terms of his Pokémon's well-being and his academic responsibilities.
• Competition: The high school league serves as a platform for Trainers to showcase their skills and gain recognition, reflecting the competitive nature of the Pokémon world.

Character Interactions

• Yan Yang interacts with his classmates, who greet him with surprise and curiosity about his absence.
• He converses with Ruan Zhu and Agate, who vouch for him and express their excitement about the upcoming league.
• Teacher Shen E addresses the class, announcing the league and expressing her hopes for their success.

Key Plot Points and Events

• The league rules are detailed: three battle modes (1v1 singles, 2v2 doubles, and 4v4 team battles) with no cross-event restrictions, allowing a minimum of 6 participants to cover all events.
• No items are allowed in battle, giving an advantage to Trainers using special systems like Mega Evolution.
• The 1v1 singles use a 3v3 format, 2v2 doubles require cooperative battling, and team battles test synergy and tactical understanding.
• The school initially planned for a 10-person team but reduced it to 8, increasing the burden on participants and reducing opportunities for others.

Character Developments

• Yan Yang gains a clearer understanding of the league rules and decides to participate in all three events.
• Ruan Zhu, the class president, also aims to participate in all events, showing confidence in his abilities.
• Agate, despite her sarcastic remarks, decides not to compete with Yan Yang and Ruan Zhu.

Significant Themes

• The theme of strength and respect, with the strongest Trainers expected to compete.
• The importance of teamwork and synergy in doubles and team battles.
• The concept of quality over quantity, with the reduction of team spots.

Character Interactions

• Yan Yang, Ruan Zhu, and Agate discuss their intentions for the league.
• Yan Yang challenges Ruan Zhu to a battle for the mid-term practical exam to decide who will participate in more events.
• Agate decides not to compete with Yan Yang and Ruan Zhu, acknowledging their strengths.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Yan Yang and his Pokémon are excited about the upcoming League competition.
• Yan Yang plans his Pokémon's lineup for the midterm duel with Ruan Zhu and the League's three events (single, double, and team battles).
• Entei, Yan Yang's father, agrees to participate in the competition, boosting Yan Yang's confidence.
• Yan Yang decides on the Pokémon for each event, with Entei as the trump card for the finale, Grovyle and Silvally for the double battle, and Lycanroc and Curse Flame for double battles.
• Yan Yang focuses on training Grovyle to learn new moves like [Giga Drain] and [Leech Seed] to enhance her attrition strategy.

Character Developments

• Yan Yang shows strategic thinking and care for his Pokémon, wanting them to gain experience and enjoy battles together.
• Entei demonstrates support and understanding for Yan Yang's wishes, agreeing to participate in the competition despite his preference for solitude.
• Grovyle shows dedication to training, accepting Yan Yang's advice to focus on defense and attrition strategies.

Significant Themes

• Teamwork and coordination among Pokémon.
• The importance of strategy and planning in battles.
• The growth and development of Pokémon through training and experience.

Character Interactions

• Yan Yang interacts with Entei, showing affection and respect for his father's decision to participate in the competition.
• Yan Yang trains Grovyle, encouraging her to learn new moves and strategies, demonstrating his role as a caring and supportive Trainer.
• Yan Yang's Pokémon interact with each other, showing camaraderie and excitement for the upcoming competition.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Yan Yang plans to teach Silvally weather-changing moves (Sunny Day, Rain Dance, Sandstorm, Hail) for strategic advantages and synergy with Grovyle.
• He obtains TMs for these moves with Wang Yan's help.
• Yan Yang attempts Mega Evolution with Pyroar and Curse Flame.

Character Developments

• Yan Yang shows strategic thinking and resourcefulness in planning Silvally's moveset.
• Pyroar and Curse Flame express their preferences regarding Mega Evolution.

Significant Themes

• The importance of weather effects in Pokémon battles and the challenges of using them effectively.
• The significance of deep bonds between Trainers and Pokémon for successful Mega Evolution.

Character Interactions

• Yan Yang and Wang Yan's friendship and mutual support.
• Yan Yang's understanding and respect for Pyroar's and Curse Flame's feelings regarding their Mega Evolutions.

Key Plot Points and Events

• The mid-term exam consists of a theory test and a practical combat assessment.
• Yan Yang excels in the theory test, finding it too easy.
• The practical assessment is a 3v3 battle, with teachers scoring based on performance, not just victory.
• Yan Yang observes his classmates' battles, narrowing down potential teammates to Xiao Hao and Dongye Haotian.
• Yan Yang's climactic battle against the class president, Ruan Zhu, begins.

Character Developments

• Yan Yang: Shows expertise in Pokémon theory and uses Evergreen Power during the battle.
• Xiao Hao: Proves to be a "zero in theory, full marks in practice" specialist with a formidable Azumarill.
• Dongye Haotian: Demonstrates steady performance using uncommon Pokémon, catching opponents off guard.
• Ruan Zhu: The class president, battles Yan Yang with a level 52 Feraligatr.

Significant Themes

• The importance of both theoretical knowledge and practical combat skills.
• The value of facing stronger opponents for training purposes.
• The impact of level disparities on battles.

Character Interactions

• Yan Yang observes and analyzes his classmates' battles, considering Xiao Hao and Dongye Haotian as potential teammates.
• Yan Yang and Ruan Zhu engage in a battle, with Ruan Zhu offering to use a lower-level Pokémon to make the match fairer.
• Teachers and students discuss and react to Yan Yang's use of Evergreen Power during the battle.

Key Plot Points and Events

• The battle begins with Ruan Zhu's Feraligatr using Intimidate, causing Grovyle to feel fear and fluctuating defense.
• Both Yan Yang and Ruan Zhu use strategy to boost their Pokémon's stats.
• Grovyle uses Curse to enhance its power, while Feraligatr uses Agility to increase speed.
• Yan Yang uses Razor Leaf, but the damage is minimal due to the level gap.
• Ruan Zhu switches to Feraligatr's Ice Fang attack, which is super effective but doesn't knock out Grovyle due to its defense boost and shell.
• Yan Yang sticks to a defensive strategy, using Curse and Withdraw to protect Grovyle.
• Ruan Zhu switches to Garchomp, a pseudo-legendary Pokémon, to turn the tide.
• The battle continues with Garchomp's Dragon Claw attacks and Grovyle's Leech Seed attempts, which miss due to Garchomp's agility.
• Yan Yang recalls Grovyle and sends out Armorouge to face Garchomp.

Character Developments

• Yan Yang demonstrates clear tactical thinking and calm execution of strategies.
• Ruan Zhu shows confidence in his Pokémon's abilities and adaptability in battle.
• Grovyle shows courage and determination, following Yan Yang's advice to face enemies without fear.
• Armorouge shows eagerness to participate in the battle and a connection with Garchomp.

Significant Themes

• The importance of strategy and adaptability in Pokémon battles.
• The impact of type advantages and level gaps on battle outcomes.
• The connection and rivalry among Dragon-type Pokémon.

Character Interactions

• Yan Yang and Grovyle have a strong bond, with Yan Yang encouraging Grovyle and Grovyle following Yan Yang's advice.
• Ruan Zhu and Feraligatr/Garchomp have a confident and cooperative relationship.
• Armorouge and Garchomp share a connection and rivalry as Dragon-type Pokémon.

Key Plot Points and Events

• The battle shifts from offense to defense, with Yan Yang's Armorouge gaining an advantage due to level suppression.
• Armorouge uses its Overlord Domain, boosting its stats at the start of the battle.
• Garchomp, despite being suppressed in type and rank, fights fiercely but is eventually defeated by Armorouge's relentless attacks.
• Ruan Zhu sends out Feraligatr and then Kangaskhan, but both are quickly defeated by Armorouge.
• Yan Yang sends out Lycanroc, a new variant, to face Ruan Zhu's Mega Evolved Kangaskhan and its Cubone companion.

Character Developments

• Armorouge demonstrates its formidable strength and skill, using its domain power and STAB moves effectively.
• Garchomp shows its unyielding fighting spirit and powerful moves but ultimately falls to Armorouge's overwhelming strength.
• Ruan Zhu shows determination and sportsmanship, refusing to retreat despite facing a stronger opponent.
• Yan Yang displays strategic thinking, choosing Lycanroc to face the Mega Evolved Kangaskhan, understanding its type advantage.

Significant Themes

• The power of domain abilities and STAB moves.
• The importance of type matchups and level differences in battles.
• The determination and resilience of Trainers and their Pokémon.

Character Interactions

• Yan Yang and Armorouge work together, with Yan Yang commanding and Armorouge executing powerful moves.
• Ruan Zhu and his Pokémon (Garchomp, Feraligatr, Kangaskhan) fight against Yan Yang and Armorouge, showing determination and skill.
• Yan Yang and Lycanroc face off against Ruan Zhu's Mega Evolved Kangaskhan and its Cubone companion, with Yan Yang strategically choosing Lycanroc for its type advantage.

Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Yan Yang's Lycanroc faces off against Ruan Zhu's Mega Evolved Kangaskhan and its Cubone.
• Lycanroc uses strategic moves like Quick Guard, Rock Tomb, and Dig to counter Kangaskhan's attacks.
• Ruan Zhu realizes too late that Lycanroc is Ghost-type, making many of his moves ineffective.
• Lycanroc uses Snarl to counter Kangaskhan's Sucker Punch and ultimately defeats it with Rock Slide.

Character Developments

• Yan Yang demonstrates strategic thinking and adaptability in commanding Lycanroc.
• Ruan Zhu shows regret and realization upon learning Lycanroc's type.
• Lycanroc displays resilience and strategic understanding in battle.

Significant Themes

• The importance of understanding one's opponent's abilities and types in battle.
• The strategic use of moves and abilities to counter opponents.
• The determination of a mother to protect her child (Kangaskhan's protective instincts).

Character Interactions

• Yan Yang and Lycanroc work together, with Yan Yang giving commands and Lycanroc executing them strategically.
• Ruan Zhu and his Kangaskhan struggle against Lycanroc due to lack of information about Lycanroc's type.
• The mother and child Kangaskhan display a strong bond, with the mother protecting the child throughout the battle.