Author's Note: Well, here we are! This is the chapter many of you have been waiting for! Things are about to get a bit more interesting around here...
~Lady Venamisa~
Six Months Ago, Hall of Origin...
I'm finally here! The psychic thought, as the corners of his mouth twitched in a triumphant smile. Only two days...a new record.
Mewtwo stood inside the massive Hall of Origin, which hadn't changed since his last visit. The translucent floor glowed with shifting colors, each one representing a different Pokemon type. There were no walls or ceiling to speak of. Everything else seemed to be bathed in darkness and stars; a sign that they were located somewhere in the reaches of outer space. Down at the very end of the hall was a golden portal, which Arceus soon emerged out of.
Crimson orbs gazed into lavender for a brief moment, but it was more than enough. A connection had been formed between them – one that acknowledged something horrible had taken place.
"A-Arceus..." the mutant groaned, the room spinning around him. "I-I have to tell you..."
The vibrant colors of the floor blurred together, before fading into nothingness. Exhaustion had finally won out.
Secret Rocket Base; Miles Underground, Undisclosed Location...
Rip. Stab. Shock. Pause. Rip. Stab. Shock. Pause. The cycle went in a neat little pattern, one that Ash began to find a morbid comfort in. It was unpleasant, maybe even maddening at times, but the process was all so familiar now. The torrents of agony shifted and changed, but in a predictable way that left nothing to the imagination. Focusing on the sharp sensations drove away the remnants of his nightmares, and the guilt they often left him. Even the voice was becoming an ally – even if it was trying to corrupt him.
At least it was better than being alone.
Why do you act as if this is a terrible thing? The voice whispered, echoing through the constant darkness of his mind. This suffering...this pain...it suits you very well. You were meant for this.
In a whirl of color and sound, the memories began to flash around again. Sometimes, Ash caught brief images of Pikachu, his mother, his friends and Pallet Town. Other times, legendary Pokemon came to mind – the ones he considered allies.
They will not come because you're merely a pawn. You know this, yet you fight so hard. The voice chuckled darkly.
Ash merely laid there for a while, riding out another cycle. 'I know.' he reluctantly agreed, his back arching with the powerful current that tore through him. 'But they matter more than I do. I'm just a human...they're gods.' It was a truth he never vocalized, never fully allowed himself to believe before. But now that he was on the edge of oblivion, what was the point of pretending?
You're all alone now, Assssssh. Alone and forgotten...tossed aside like a sad, pathetic little rag doll.
More flashes came and went. His mother. His friends. Mew. Shaymin. Celebi. Many others. Each and every image accompanied the cycle of pain, until it all stopped at a zombie Pidgeot.
'Murderer! Monster!' she screamed, as her death played over and over at faster intervals. 'I had a whole flock to take care of! I had a life! AND YOU TOOK IT AWAY FROM ME!' The dead bird grew bigger and taller, towering over his unmoving body. 'YOU SHOULD HAVE GONE WITH THEM FROM THE START! I HATE YOU!'
Shame and guilt assaulted him at once, beating him down further and further into the void. 'My fault,' he began to curl in on himself, as the void dragged him further and further down. 'Pidgeot, I'm sorry! Please...'
Pidgeot and the void laughed cruelly, their voices meshing into one. You are a BURDEN on this world, not a savior! You are WEAK! The only thing you're good for is DYING, and you can't even DO THAT RIGHT! You're a miserable, worthless, WASTE OF SPACE!
'I'm weak,' he repeated, cowering further and further into himself. 'Good for dying...worthless...can't do it right.'
The monster that might have been Pidgeot warped and changed, becoming a dark shadow that wrapped itself around him. The images continued to flash, as if they were some kind of disjointed movie.
Yes! Yes! Give in! Accept your fate – it's easier that way! The shadow licked his cheek. You want rest. You want peace. I can give that to you...
'Y-you can?'
That's right. Just surrender. You've done more than enough; Giovanni doesn't know their locations, after all.
'Y-y-you're right...he doesn't.'
And it's not like you can tell them now, can you?
'N-no...'
The shadow turned back into a non-dead, giant Pidgeot. She cradled him in her wings, a loving expression in her eyes. 'I can forgive you, Ash.' she whispered tenderly. 'now that you're starting to understand.'
'You can?'
'But of course! Just so long as you give yourself up. Accept your destiny...so that you may properly atone.'
Ash felt himself growing smaller and smaller. 'I...I...'
'Hush now, little one.' She cooed, gently nuzzling him with her beak. 'Think about it...and stay with me like this.'
'O-okay...'
In Memorium, Day Three, (Continued)...
A savory, mouth-watering aroma hung in the air of the stone-furnished living room; remnants of the cooking done earlier that day. Ash smiled placidly, checking over his handiwork once more. Upon a large tray sat a mountain of sweet-and-spicy rice balls, loaves of honey-glazed bread, a pitcher of pecha berry juice and a couple plastic cups. Though nothing overly fancy, it was certainly quite a bit. Hopefully, enough to sate both his and Mewtwo's appetite.
I hope he likes it. The trainer thought, carefully picking up the tray. He needs to keep his strength up if he's going to work so hard! Stomach growling, he headed outside once again. High up in the sky, Pikachu and his new found friends flew upon Charizard and Chartwo's backs, their loud cheers echoing through the meadow.
"Hey there, Pikachu!" he called out, waving joyfully at his friend.
"Piiiika!" the rodent happily replied, waving back at him with one hand.
Looks like I'm not the only one having a good time, he mused, heading toward the spot where Mewtwo remained.
Welcome back, he replied, as Ash sat the tray down on the ground.
"Thanks! I hope it's enough!"
The psychic beamed. This will be plenty for us, I believe. He mentally tore off a piece of bread and levitated it into his open mouth. Once again, I am humbled by your cooking prowess!
The chosen one rubbed his neck, smiling at the praise. "Oh, I didn't do much –"
Thank you for going to all this trouble – this is exactly what I needed. Mewtwo interrupted pleasantly. He closed his eyes contentedly with each bite, as though savoring the food.
"You're welcome," he mumbled, feeling a twinge of warmth spread across his cheeks. For the first time in a long while, Ash felt truly appreciated.
Six Months Ago, Hall of Origin...
Mewtwo awoke sometime later, laying upon what appeared to be a large, red cushion. Where am I? He thought groggily, mind still hazy from sleep. How am I here? He let out a small groan, and focused on collecting his thoughts.
Wait a minute...I've seen this place before...
...is this...the Hall of Origin!?
And just like that, his memories came swimming back.
Delia Ketchum sobbing in Sam Oak's arms; visions of a birthday party that never happened; Pidgeot dead; Pikachu badly wounded; traveling around the region in just two days; news of Ash's capture; Team Rocket! Giovanni!
Ash! he bolted off of the cushion, a new energy coursing through his veins at the realization. As though sensing his panic, Arceus appeared to him. Red eyes gazed upon the mutant in concern.
"Hello there, Mewtwo. It has been quite a while since we've seen each other – not since your ranking celebration, was it?"
I know. I apologize for intruding upon you like this, but –
"How have you been?" the Creator asked calmly. "I haven't heard any news about your endeavors for quite a while."
There's a problem, Arceus! It's –
"I've been fairly well, myself. Life here hasn't changed one bit! However, you've made quite the trip in a very short amount of time, judging from the severity of your exhaustion. Tell me, what troubles you so?"
Ash has been captured by Team Rocket! Mewtwo bellowed, furious that Arceus wasn't taking him seriously. They've had him for three weeks! We have to find him, now! Time is of the essence!
Arceus, the God of all Pokémon, Ruler of the Universe and Creator of the Cosmos, said nothing. For a few moments, he merely stood there. Satisfied that he wouldn't be interrupted any further, Mewtwo outlined the options he'd thought of along the way.
I do not think it would be wise to attack them up front. Giovanni's little organization has highly advanced technology at their fingertips; we could be subdued or caught off guard. He stared out into the cosmos, briefly reflecting upon the last time he encountered the man. If Team Rocket had such powerful machinery back then, how much more advanced had it become? A chill ran down his spine at the idea.
No...that will not do at all. My suggestion is to have Dialga or Celebi travel back in time, far enough to prevent them from capturing him in the first place. It's the easiest way to ensure his safety. His eyes gleamed dangerously. No matter what we do, I want to be there. Giovanni and I have a score that must be settled.
Instead of answering right away, Arceus gave a small, sad smile. For a few seconds, Mewtwo felt a stab of vindictiveness at the sight. Maybe now you'll see how unfair it is to place such a burden on someone!
But as those seconds grew longer and longer, frustration began to set in. He turned around, eyes faintly glowing with psychic power. Well, what are you waiting for? We can't stand around while they have him! He'll die if we keep stalling!
The Original One frowned. "I'm afraid your plan will not work." A large, crystal orb materialized above them, before lowering down to their level. "I need you to listen to me...this is very important."
Mewtwo nodded, trying to keep himself in check. Very well. You have my attention.
Present Day...
"Giratina," he said icily, eyes narrowing in disgust at his surroundings. The large-scale room was very reminiscent of a seventeenth-century dungeon, complete with uneven stone floors and walls to mach. Around the room, he noticed that many Pokémon were chained up and writhing in agony; a thin, black fog surrounded them individually. It was a sickening sight, one that his cellmates were already beginning to endure.
"Young monster," she replied, voice dripping with a sensual overtone. "I'm delighted that you're finally able to join me."
"Yes, I can see that." From the distance, he could hear Farfech'd's petrified cries. "Tell me, why do you inflict such suffering in others?" He inwardly cringed as Froslass' screams joined in, mixing and melding with countless others. If I were at full strength, I would set them free.
The large, ghostly dragon, standing in her truest form, glowered at him. Her icy tendrils of shadow painfully forced Mewtwo into a kneeling position. It happened in what felt like an instant, but the sheer coldness remained.
"How can I not?" she spoke, before taking her place on what appeared to be a gigantic throne, crafted out of what looked like Dusk Stone. It seemed to be specifically designed for her massive, coiling body. "My role is to enact a specific brand of justice, which I've been given free reign over. And soon, you are going to become yet another."
"This 'specific brand of justice ' is nothing but a twisted, perverted notion! No one deserves this sort of treatment, no matter what they've done!" Mewtwo sneered at her, unmoved by her grand display.
The Renegade Pokémon laughed. "Call it what you wish, but even you have desired a fate such as this for a particular individual...have you not?"
"You lie!"
She merely laughed again, as the fog began to settle in. It wasn't long before Mewtwo found himself in complete darkness.
"Enjoy yourself, my darling abomination. I know I will."
In Memorium, Day Three, (Continued)...
Ash couldn't help but look on in awe, as Mewtwo showed him around a place that no other human had ever seen before – his lab. It was massive and grand, expertly carved out of the white stone that encompassed the rest of the cave. The floors, walls and ceiling had a smooth finish to them, with just enough traction to prevent slipping.
The most impressive aspect, however, were the well-crafted pieces of advanced technology, all of which fit so easily inside; each one appeared solidly built, and definitely topped anything Professor Oak had back in Pallet.
"How did you do all this?" he inquired, as they came across a huge super computer. It was about the size of five regular ones, and seemed to be doing many tasks on its own.
I spent three years collecting various metals and other materials, once my children helped me carve out this particular spot. There are a series of generators downstairs, all of which are powered by the minerals within this land's special water – and my own psychic signature. He explained this matter-of-factly, as the computer showed a complex series of images and paragraphs. It is here that I run my experiments and solve problems that occasionally come up.
"It's amazing!" Ash gasped, marveling at the scale of it all. A lot of time, effort and work obviously went into making this place. Very impressive, even if scientific things generally went over his head. "You're incredible!"
The psychic chuckled, slightly embarrassed. I'm glad you think so highly of my efforts...and myself. His eyes began to glow a bright, cool blue. Almost instantly, the keys began to move on their own.
"What's this?" the trainer asked, confused by the display of data.
It's Gyaratwo's PkNA, represented in the coding system I've established. The sound of typing keys became louder and faster. Please remain quiet for a few minutes. I need a while to sort out this information for tonight.
"Sure, no problem," the raven-haired teen consented, leaning back against the rough wall. There was something to be admired about the way Mewtwo went about his work. Each and every tiny movement held an air of purpose to it, almost as if there was a deeper meaning behind it. Even without activating his Aura-sight, the sheer strength of the Genetic Pokémon's determination was overwhelming. Whatever Gyaratwo's sickness might be, it was obviously taken seriously. That level of devotion only served as a means of inspiration...and surfaced other unusual feelings as well.
Ash found himself nearly breathless as psychic power surrounded all of Mewtwo's body, giving him in a gentle glow. Once again, the trainer became enthralled in staring, trapped by the odd attractiveness that the Pokémon seemed to exude. W-what is this? he thought, trying to combat the spark of arousal that started to make itself known. He's a Pokémon...I'm a human...I shouldn't – Ash bit his lower lip, taking in a deep breath to calm his nerves. It's probably nothing...maybe I just need a good lay. It's been over a year, after all...
Yeah, that was it. These so-called "feelings" were probably just pent-up sexual frustration; he'd been so busy dealing with the problems of legendary Pokémon that he'd failed to notice his own needs. Feeling a bit more comfortable with himself, Ash went back to watching Mewtwo. Any continued thoughts of attractiveness were swiftly ignored.
Six Months Ago, Spear Pillar...
Arceus took a deep breath and stared at the crystal orb. "Though I am credited with creating the stars, planets and general shape of the universe, the truth is I've only made the creatures who did the work for me." The orb showed images of Palkia, Dialga and Giratina. "They created the backbone of the universe and it's laws; Palkia formed space, Dialga formed time, and Giratina formed the Distortion World, which provides a much needed balance."
The images shifted to include Arceus forming all the planets of the universe – one after another. "Once they had made time, space and antimatter, I set to work making all the planets and stars. It was a an exhausting, yet worth-while task. Even so, I realized that putting life on every planet wouldn't be possible; my body could not handle the vast extremes required." Earth appeared on the screen. "I decided to begin things on this one planet, before expanding my efforts to the rest of the universe."
Groudon, Kyogre and Rayquaza appeared next. "I created Groudon and Kyogre to make land and sea, and Rayquaza to control the various weather patterns they'd create. Together, they formed the very basis of the world." Shaymin, Celebi, Mew, The Lake Trio and many others began to appear as well. "After that, each creature I made held a specific purpose. Mew guarded the essence of all life, Shaymin created plant life, Celebi became a messenger that could travel through time, and so on. Each of the specific ones I created were eventually given the title of 'Legendary'."
While this is a fascinating story, what does any of this have to do with Ash? Mewtwo inquired, quickly losing his patience. His life depends on us!
"Patience, Mewtwo. I will make my point soon."
Then hurry up and do so!
Arceus ignored him. "Since Mew controlled life, she asked for permission to make other Pokémon – I allowed this. In response, she created many diverse and numerous species...who, in turn, needed to be taken care of." An image of a man and woman appeared. "This is why humans were made. With their intelligence and relatively low power, they became the perfect caretakers...or so it would seem."
This time, the orb showed many humans fighting amongst themselves, using Pokémon. "Humanity became smarter and craftier, finding ways to control Pokémon and become the dominant race. They eventually engaged in wars among themselves...often involving Pokémon in their battles. Unfortunately, legendary Pokémon became involved in ways that I hadn't expected." An image of Ho-oh appeared. In it, she was being restrained by a group of humans. "Long before organizations like Team Rocket, one race in particular turned against us.
They were the Pokelantians, lead by their king, Diano. Diano wanted to steal Ho-oh's immortality, and convinced his people to take his side. It was a hard struggle, but my children won against them in the end." Mewtwo listened to the story for the most part, fighting back the urge to snap at Arceus again; brash behavior was obviously going to get him nowhere.
Why hadn't you done anything about him, then? A threat like that should have been swiftly taken care of! he glowered at the image; Diano bore an uncanny resemblance to Giovanni, which only served to further aggravate him.
Arceus sighed. "I simply wasn't capable at the time. Since a human had tricked me into giving away several sources of my creation powers, I found myself without the strength to assist them in any way."
I see...continue.
"Of course." The image shifted again, showing someone that looked a lot like Ash. "When humanity started to chase after legendary Pokémon, I began to realize that they – my children if you will – were in grave danger. Fearing what would happen if I were to lose one of them, I ordered Mew form a special power that humans would be blessed with. I believe it is commonly referred to as Aura."
Mewtwo's stomach clenched. Oh yeah, he knew all about that...
"Humans who possessed it became their protectors, a far safer alternative to risking the lives of my children. In addition to being able to read Aura patterns and even attack with it, a specific user is selected from the others. They are given an extra ability: To keep the balance in our favor, even through their mere presence. With that extra precaution, the occupation of Chosen One was born."
Mewtwo's eyes widened at the mention of that title. All too quickly, he remembered something that Ash had once said about it...
"I was born with a power to keep them safe – it's what I have to do. They call me their 'Chosen One', but I'd like to think of it as being a friend; I would help them, even if I didn't have it. That's just the way it is."
So that is the connection all of us share with him, then? It makes sense, I suppose... With great difficulty, he clamped down on the inklings of disturbance that entered his mind. Perhaps it was due to being reminded of his goal, but something about this turn in the conversation left a sense of wrongness in the air. Ash spoke highly of this 'occupation' during our last encounter. He has come to value it – and the lives of all legendary Pokémon – very highly. An image of Ash's face came to mind, sending a shiver down his spine. More than his own, in fact.
Arceus nodded. "Indeed, Ash Ketchum has been good to us all over the years. He is fully dedicated to his duties, and for that, I praise him." His tone darkened. "Unfortunately, his power isn't what it once was. Years of constant risk, stress and self-sacrifice have begun to sap at both his Aura and Chosen-One abilities. In as little as four months, his body will completely shut down from that alone."
It was so silent that one could hear a pin drop. Icy, sickening dread crept into Mewtwo's heart, painfully constricting it. F-four months... he whispered, insides lurching.
"You're incredible!"
No...
I-isn't there anything we can do?
"Measures have already been taken," the god spoke, a hint of regret in his tone, "but you will not like what must be done."
What are you –
"I have never been able to create anything remotely close to the Chosen One's special ability. It's combination of energies is too unique; I consider it an accident of chance, to be honest." The crystal orb showed an image of a slightly older man with dark hair. He was clad in all blue, and walked with a Lucario at his side. "It pains me to say this, but I have found a new candidate...one that has a complete mastery of Aura. His abilities as Chosen will be splendid."
He stared directly at Mewtwo, red eyes glinting with an unreadable emotion. "Sadly, in order to transfer the ability to him, the current Chosen One must die while defending us in some way."
It took a moment before the meaning of those words began to sink in. The once self-appointed strongest Pokémon stood there, paralyzed by the horror of it all.
No...
"I wanted to see how you were doing."
"Oh, good morning Mewtwo! I didn't realize you were up yet!"
"Friends are people you trust and find comfort in. They stand by each other through the good times – and the bad..."
"They call me their 'Chosen One', but I'd like to think of it as being a friend..."
No!
'I-I'm not ready for...whatever this is yet. I'm sorry..."
It's fine, Ash. To be honest, all this is a bit much...
"Is it alright if we stay friends, then?"
Of course – I wouldn't have it any other way.
'Thank you...'
NO!
Suddenly, he was seeing red – literally. Hot, painful power burst through him, shattering the orb in a matter of seconds. A shower of crystal dust and shards fell down to the floor.
"Mewtwo, I know you do not like it, but this is for the greater good!" Arceus said, his tone brimming with both compassion and authority. "I wish things were different, but I have limitations as well." He looked down at the floor. "I've seen many Chosen Ones die, as have the others. It is a tragedy, but one that is necessary to – "
No! I won't let it happen! The power flared wildly, causing the shards to spin around the room. You're the creator of the whole universe, and you're telling me this is NECESSARY?! The floor underneath him began to crack as well. Then I'll stop it! I don't care about this 'Chosen' power you've created!
"Now, Mewtwo, be reasonable! Humans don't live very long to begin with – "
So that makes them worthless, then? Is that it? Mewtwo felt the anger rip out of him, causing yet another surge of power to launch itself at whatever it could find.
"I will not let my children die, Mewtwo!" The Creator shouted, no longer able to keep calm. "Humans – the ones I meant to be caretakers – have caused far too much devastation! Do you realize what would happen if just one of the 'legendary Pokémon' were to die or become twisted? This world – maybe even the universe itself – will begin to crumble!" He started to glow again, though it looked red in Mewtwo's vision. "I will not allow that day to come, even if it means sacrificing the life that is less important! Surely you, of all people, can understand my position."
That stopped Mewtwo, dead in his tracks. He thought back to his clones – the children he'd created so long ago. He remembered that particular moment, when Giovanni had threatened all of them – when their lives were directly in his hands. It was the day he often had nightmares about.
The day that had nearly killed him.
A day that could repeat itself if Giovanni ever remembered him.
He closed his eyes, and the power began to die down. If the positions were reversed, what would be the right choice? Would it really be alright to risk their lives like that? Would he place Ash above his own children, too?
Was this what being a father meant? Sacrificing everything else to keep the children safe – even if it went against all morals?
Even if it went against what they wanted?
Do they know about this? He asked, trying to gather himself once more.
"They?"
Lugia, Ho-oh, Celebi...everyone you call your 'children'! Do they know what you've done to ensure their safety?
Arceus sighed. "Most of them do not understand the full consequences, save for Dialga, Palkia and Giratina."
And why is that? Shouldn't they honor the ones who are sacrificed?
There was a long, contemplative pause. "Many of them would not be able to handle the truth, I'm afraid."
Mewtwo opened his eyes. He no longer saw red, but anger still bubbled and seethed deep inside. I think I understand, now. He made his way toward the exit portal, his expression grim.
"You can try to save him, but you will ultimately fail," Arceus said in an even tone. "This is the way it has to be."
For the second time that day, their eyes met.
I renounce my title! If being a 'Legendary Pokémon' means allowing this cycle of sacrifice to continue, then I want no part of it! He spat at the ground and balled his fists. I will find him, Arceus! And when I do, I'll tell him how little you value his life!
And with that, the clone of Mew exited the Hall of Origin, never to return.
Ash, please stay strong! I swear I'll find you! Just don't lose hope!
Secret Rocket Base; Miles Underground, Undisclosed Location...
The lull of the void was becoming more and more soothing. The more Ash gave in and embraced to the darkness, the easier things got. Pidgeot's sweet voice cooed at him, her warm body protecting him from the cold.
'Maybe this is how it should be,' he thought tiredly, smiling in spite of everything. 'She'll forgive me...and I'll be free. Free..."
As this thought came to mind, a different voice spoke to him.
Ash, please stay strong!
Brown eyes eyes widened. He knew who that was! And suddenly, the sky within the void began to crack. The world began to shake and rumble...and Pidgeot turned back into the shadowy figure once more. She grasped him tightly. Without warning, everything hurt again.
I swear I will find you!
A blue, glowing figure broke through the crack in the void's sky, unleashing a world of pure, white light. The shadow screeched and cried, before vanishing all together. Ash felt himself falling..falling...deep into white...
...only to have the blue figure catch him.
'M-Mewtwo?" he whispered, as the pain intensified once more. Even though part of him was dealing with the agony again, Ash found himself feeling whole somehow.
Just don't lose hope! The glowing figure – maybe Mewtwo – kissed him on the cheek, before gently placing him on the ground.
'I won't.'
The figure vanished, leaving Ash with a lot more clarity than he'd had in a while.
Author's Note: Yeah, the ending bothers me a little bit. I wanted it to come out more grand and detailed, but I felt this was enough for now; Ash's mind was jumbled and distorted...I'll try to make sense of things next time around.