Chapter IX: Test the Waters

In three days Mewtwo found peace. Its journey for reconciliation was a winding one. Disappearing from Pokémon Village's Unknown Cave in the Kalos region, the Genetic Pokémon prepared to meet with its creator. It knew where he was all along, though it wanted nothing to do with him.

Giovanni caused enough damage to Mewtwo's condition. To amuse itself, the Psychic-type would read his tortured thoughts from afar when possible. Their mental connection flickered in and out sporadically. Mewtwo did its best to block out his memories, but their battles played back in its mind every once in a while. It refused to plant nostalgia inside his brand of manipulative companionship. Now it had a true friend.

The young Trainer's request for the clone to forgive its maker, instead of hate or destroy him, sat idle on the supreme Pokémon's conscience. It wished to honor the boy's request out of respect for his gift of translation. The dream that haunted Mewtwo no longer controlled it.

From that moment, vigor bloomed within its soul. Its heart softened without folding. Nothing stood between it and happiness. Upon separating from its friend, Mewtwo flew high above the earth in search of a remote spot to meditate.

In the western seas of Routes 40 and 41 resided four secluded islands. Surrounded by perilous whirlpools, these Whirl Islands were rumored to be the home of a storied bird Pokémon who dwelled deep underwater. Mewtwo dared not disturb it.

It was not looking for a fight, merely a high-altitude resting place. Legendary Pokémon did not welcome trespassers, especially ones with similar power. Although a risk, Mewtwo staked out the territory. When worse came to worse, it relied on reason. As a fellow intelligent species, the island dweller likely had a willing ear, so Mewtwo assumed.

Thin, fresh air helped it concentrate. The Whirl Islands consisted of four distinct land masses, though they were once a single entity.

During the colonization of the Kanto and Johto regions, a dispute developed between the two states over which would claim the Whirl Islands as their own. This angered the guardian of the island. As a result, it drew lightning from the sky, splitting the island into four separate parts.

This archipelago was responsible for the disappearance of many ambitious Trainers throughout history. The turbulent waters were restricted to those unfit to tread with diligence. Mewtwo surveyed the open sea. How its waves crashed and swayed the Pokémon loved. Its heart was set.

Mewtwo scanned the whereabouts of the feathered guardian from each island top. It settled on the northern isle. The bird went undetected yet the Genetic Pokémon kept its guard high. An uneasy feeling bubbled inside the clone.

Perhaps it was hungry. Weeks went by without sustenance on occasion. Hunger, pain and fatigue were battles of the mind, which Mewtwo conquered more often than not. It decided the external world's effect on its daily cycle.

Therefore Mewtwo ignored its stomach. It would be dealt with when the time was right. The Sun was halved and golden-orange as it prepared for hibernation. White-capped waves rushed one after another. The clone pulled in cool air; warm air pushed out. While sitting with its digits pressed against its temples, Mewtwo achieved Zen.

Unchained thoughts flowed back and forth. Nature's tune yearned for description yet the clone only heard; it did not listen. Its mental energy went to waste when attempting to confine present moments to names and labels. Unlimited power lay in the here-and-now. The Genetic Pokémon understood this. If it lived for today, tomorrow would surely bring prosperity.

Mewtwo rested atop its selected islet as the Sun took a bow. With its mind cleared, the clone sought the troubled mind of its creator.

His silhouette huddled in a corner of a small dank room. His eyes trembled. Sweat slid down his sides. Blackened brick boxed him in. He was alone – the optimal scenario.

Two Island, single cell, thought Mewtwo, locating its target. It crossed its arms across its chest. Limitless psychic energy powered the supreme Pokémon to teleport to its desired destination.

Giovanni's eyes fixed on the intersection of two walls in deep reflection. Mewtwo appeared without a sound. Its voice echoed in the prisoner's head. Giovanni quivered in fear.

"Who… What are you?" he asked. Mewtwo continued its telepathic communication.

"Do not speak," it said."No one must know of my presence."

". . ."

"I can decipher your thoughts."

"Are you the Pokémon from my dreams?" the prisoner asked with his mind.

". . ."

"Yes. I know you are!"

"You do not deserve to walk as a free man."

"I have committed countless sins."

"You are all alone. Have you no bed?"

"I've been confined to solitude for the next three weeks for plotting an elaborate escape."

"Some things never change."

"I beg your pardon?"

"Our minds are connected through dreams. I have come to release you, but not from these walls."

"I'm afraid I don't understand."

"You will."

Mewtwo stepped close enough to touch its former partner. An aura of power flared from its nimble frame. Giovanni was clueless. As the clone reached out its paw, he shut his eyes to accept his fate. The Psychic-type's orbed digits glistened blue against its creator's forehead. Delivering on its promise, Mewtwo returned the crime lord's memory.

"Giovanni," the Pokémon stated, "you are an animal fit for a cage." His head lowered in shame. Memories grew like weeds inside his mind – greed, hatred and debauchery. Standing before the Rocket founder was his greatest achievement.

He cared more for this Pokémon than his family, more than his career. It was his legacy. No matter what happened to him physically, Giovanni's impact lived vicariously through Mewtwo. He uncovered his sorrow.

"I am sorry," he begged.

". . ."

"I manipulated you. I abused your power. Please, do what needs to be done. Erase me from this world."

"Giovanni . . . I forgive you."

"You what?" he whispered.

"I forgive you, Giovanni. I cannot keep this resentment locked inside. You are flawed, as am I."

"How can you wipe the slate clean after what I did to you?"

"The boy who visited you granted your wish to meet with me. He showed me the meaning of friendship."

"Young Damion Harrison, he is the one from my dreams who set my mind free. Thank you."

". . ."

"Mewtwo, my chi –" His words carried volume.

"I am no such thing! Tonight I have spared your life. Be grateful, Inmate 2133."

Guard footsteps were gaining. Mewtwo vanished. Two bangs came to the thick metal door.

"Hey, rocket man!" the guard said. "You goin' nuts on us?"

"I'm fine," Giovanni replied. The guard snorted with sarcasm.

"Tell your imaginary friend to buzz off. I don't want another peep outta you. Ya got that?" The criminal has-been wiped itchy tears from his eyes, analyzing his creation's decision late into the night.

Mewtwo's teleportation landed it back to start. Ocean tides rebirthed their continuous loop. The Genetic Pokémon weighed its recent flicker of time. Forgiveness, it concluded, need not be justified by anyone other than the victim. It stored pain beneath its soul of which it had no right to hold.

The Rocket Leader created that pain. Mewtwo no longer bore the burden of its former master's destructive nature. Its conscience was now clear.

The unrest inside Giovanni's mind tormented him around the clock, despite this being the purpose of imprisonment. Mewtwo kept its promise and its sanity along with it. The eastern Whirl Island was cozy to the touch.

Tomorrow is a new day, thought the clone. Its sleep made haste, and all was well, on the first day.

On the second day, sunshine dawned anew, waking the supreme Pokémon. Blaine of Cinnabar was next in line for confrontation. Returning to its birthplace brought Mewtwo anxiety. Peace of mind was its goal, though its quarrel with the Fire-type Gym Leader was vague.

Something in his eyes may guide my words.

Fear would certainly paralyze the man as they met face to face. All-powerful Pokémon had that effect on people. However, this instance was to be different. Mewtwo did not know what to say to Blaine only that it needed to visit him.

It tuned into his thoughts on restless nights. Peeking into his mind was hardly amusing nonetheless. Blaine's stress gave Mewtwo headaches. Rebuilding a town from scratch was a daunting duty, especially for a man of his age.

The Genetic Pokémon partook in stretching exercises. This relaxed and honed the clone's core consciousness as it pictured the old man's face. It recalled his expression when it was born.

More than anything the Psychic-type wanted to know how Blaine could stand alongside an evil syndicate such as Team Rocket. Mewtwo thought it saw integrity in his eyes. It begrudged sharing DNA with a man of low character. A cure for their bond was elusive.

Fear acted as a great motivator nevertheless. The clone returned to its meditative position, locating the Gym Leader on demand.

Having some morning tea are we, Blaine? I will be joining you shortly.

After a few deep breaths, Mewtwo reactivated its teleportation power. Soon Cinnabar had a new visitor.

Fruit, salt and sand attached their fragrance to the warm island breeze. There Mewtwo stood, on its birth land, two paces past the Cinnabar boardwalk. Its former nest was desolate compared to its previous state.

Three picture-taking tourists snapped photos of the now-dormant volcanic crater. Mewtwo had never been out in the open like this. It contemplated flinging the trio to nearby Pallet Town.

Despite its inclinations, the clone reconsidered. These humans meant no harm nor did they pose a threat of catching it in a Poké Ball. Mewtwo shuddered, making eye contact with the curious sightseers. Their phones and cameras raised in attempt to capture the Psychic-type. Evidence of its existence would sell for thousands, possibly millions. Mewtwo eliminated any risk.

It raised its paw to them, emitting an electromagnetic pulse. The tourists' electronic devices malfunctioned and their faces soured, although one flash managed to squeak out.

In the blink of an eye, Mewtwo materialized in front of a scared grade-school girl. It turned its head towards her parents, then back to her.

"Give me your camera, little one," said Mewtwo. The family froze in fear. "Give it, please."

Her palms opened softly like a time-lapsed spring flower. Mewtwo snagged the camera and crushed it to pieces. Falling fragments mirrored tears spilling down the girl's cheeks. She covered her face in her mother's dress. The Genetic Pokémon floated away, positioning a few feet from the Cinnabar Gym doors.

"Blaine!" it called.

Commotion echoed from inside the Gym walls. Mutters turned to shouts followed by expletives. Blaine barged through his Gym's doors. His stumbling nearly caused him to fall. He gripped his arm in agony. Sweat poured from his bald head. The Fire-type Trainer seethed with resentment.

"It had to be you!" he shouted. Mewtwo was at first puzzled by his crazed behavior. It did not intend to bring Blaine harm. Yet it did not suffer from the same pain as he.

While saliva spewed from Blaine's heavy breaths, Mewtwo sympathized with his struggle. It held out its paw in his direction. Its power focused on the man's nervous system. Mewtwo isolated his brain's parietal lobe, numbing its interpretation of pain.

The supreme Pokémon met its blood brother nose to snout. It stared deeply into his pupils. Orbed fingers reached into the Gym Leader's pocket. Mewtwo removed Blaine's wallet and peeked inside.

"What is the cost of a good camera?"

Blaine was dumbfounded. Unprepared for a common question from an uncommon specimen, he began to stutter. Mewtwo demanded a straight answer. "I dunno, 500 bucks?" The clone removed sixty percent more cash than Blaine's recommended price and floated back to the frightened family.

"Here," it said, handing the money to the girl. "I am sorry." Instead of erasing their memories, Mewtwo asked about their hometown. They hailed from Snowpoint City in the Sinnoh region. It created a portal for them.

This took a few moments, but the brothers gained privacy soon enough. Blaine insisted for a refund to which Mewtwo ignored completely. It justified its action by lending its temporary healing power as a favor.

His arm was indeed enflamed, though for now it did not pester him. Blaine questioned the Pokémon's visit to his isle. They kept their distance for countless days. Something must be wrong, he thought.

Mewtwo denied his suspicion as it boasted its mind-reading capabilities. This annoyed the Gym Leader. His hand hovered over his hip. The clone reacted with words from a motionless mouth.

"Do you wish to bring harm to your Pokémon?"

"If it'll shut you up, yeah. They always like a good challenge."

"I did not come for a fight. Was my message unreceived?"

"Message? What message?"

"I told the boy to inform you I was coming."

"Who, Damion? I haven't seen him since Cerulean."

"So you did help him find me."

"That's right. Committed a crime or two in the process, so I'm glad he made it to you."

"I am glad as well. He saved my life."

"He did? What a gentleman."

"I created that portal to mislead intruders, though he found his way to me."

"I knew I liked that kid. He's got the right attitude. Well, half the time."

"He discovered me at my lowest point. Before I met Damion I dated my departure from this world."

"Huh. So you're a quitter now? That's odd. Last time I saw you, you had plenty of fight in ya."

Mewtwo described to Blaine the pain of its past. It never asked to be born. Cinnabar did not feel like home; it could not claim to have one. Speaking with its creator gave it a sense of closure.

Its forgiveness shocked Blaine. It deduced that the past, though regrettable, belonged in the rearview, and forgiving him would help mold a better future for both parties.

Just as Giovanni was not Mewtwo's father neither was Blaine its true brother. Prior to its talk with the young Trainer, all of Mewtwo's relationships came by default association.

Blaine explained he helped create it out of fear of Giovanni and compassion for Bill. He dubbed that time period as his most inspired. Motivated by the forces of good and evil, Blaine extracted his inner genius. Mewtwo was his masterpiece.

"You speak of me as if I were a painting," it said.

"Well, in a way, you are one. We all are, if you're into that namby-pamby, emotional crap."

"I do not understand."

"Forget I said it. Could you always numb my rash pain, or is this something new you're trying?"

"I guess I could. But I choose to focus my energy elsewhere. Your pain does not concern me."

"Oh yeah? Well, it should! You do realize what you've stolen from me?"

"No."

"My sanity! I can feel you crawling around my brain, you know. It's a subtle, nagging itch I can never scratch!"

"I could bother you much more than I do. Sometimes my mind is too complex."

"I'm going to pretend that wasn't an insult to my intelligence."

"It was n—"

"Yeah, whatever. So are we done now? Can I get back to my tea?"

"Find a cure, Blaine – for your own good."

"Are you serious? You think I haven't tried? Wow, you're in top form today, bub."

"Allow me to be clear: Find a cure, or I will make your life a living nightmare."

"Oh, great. A threat is exactly what I needed to start my day!"

He screamed his sarcasm skyward as the clone flew off into the distance. Although its sendoff was rather dour, Mewtwo desired independence. Both it and Blaine deserved to house separate minds. The Psychic-type had no right to exist within the Gym Leader's thoughts despite never playing tricks on him. It considered its next move. Meditation always sufficed, but it was not in the mood.

Mewtwo soared through the skies, inviting their currents to massage its overcast skin. The boy crossed its mind. Hoping he found what he was looking for, the clone somehow knew Damion hoped the same for it. Nevertheless, Mewtwo revisited its old stomping grounds of Cerulean Cave by means of teleportation, searching for a sign of completeness.

It missed the humid air and audacious residents. Scoping the dirt-covered floors and crystal blue waters from its plateau, Mewtwo took its throne.

Sensing its presence, former acquaintances approached to pay their respects. To earn the title of Cerulean Cave's protector, Mewtwo underwent numerous battles. It attained the trust of the cave's strongest inhabitants by defeating each with ease. The clone did not declare sovereignty, yet the other Pokémon sought its counsel in times of distress.

Sometimes it helped; other times it did not. Therefore some Pokémon were fonder of Mewtwo than others. The cave's interim protectors made their way to it, riding the backs of two Gyarados, a large and intimidating sea dragon Pokémon species with scales the tone of light azure, flared fins and red, piercing eyes.

Machoke, the second-stage Superpower Pokémon, and Graveler, a second-stage Rock and Ground-type, lived as warriors. They functioned as a team through ups and downs. While their cave's waterfront went dry amidst the six-day drought of Cerulean some time ago, Graveler's species migrated west to Mt. Moon. It stayed behind to train to become king of the hill.

Along the way, it gained an apprentice: a young, abandoned Machop. Once familiar the two trained together each day. Graveler honed its Rock Throw, hurling stones at the Fighting-type. Machop sharpened its Karate Chop, crushing the opposing projectiles.

The humanoid fighter's muscles never sored regardless of non-stop exercise. Both Pokémon lifted each other like weights to build strength. After many months, Machop became Machoke, conquering its territory alongside its devoted friend.

The walking four-armed boulder greeted the Genetic Pokémon with pleasantries. It expressed its delight of the removal of Mewtwo's crackling portal and asked what happened to it. Mewtwo revealed the purpose of the portal's arrival as security and its disappearance as resolution.

Graveler never liked the sight of the portal. It produced a spooky shadow. The Gyarados submerged until further notice. Machoke stepped forward. It pressed its palms together and bowed its head in reverence. Mewtwo thanked the duo for coming to see it.

The supreme Pokémon shared its recent happenings. It told of a brave young Trainer on a rescue mission. They already knew to whom it was referring. "You met him too?" it asked. The tandem spoke of their battle with Damion and Blaine.

Aided by their freshly caught Water-types, the humans prevailed, but not without an honorable fight. The cave-dwelling duo had encountered the brash Golduck before. Its Water Pulse and Zen Headbutt (a Psychic-type attack super effective against Machoke) were an indomitable combination. It was content traveling with the boy. He earned its respect. Although it fought at Damion's side, Golduck still roamed the cave.

Graveler mentioned seeing it the day prior. "Bring the duck to me," said Mewtwo. The duo gave blank stares. "Please." Graveler and Machoke agreed, smacking the surface of the pool close by. The Gyrados emerged. They lowered their heads to allow the protectors aboard. Mewtwo stood waiting.

Several minutes went by. The Genetic Pokémon's patience grew thin. Surely Golduck knew the route to its chamber; it helped the Trainer reach the trap portal. Mewtwo sensed Graveler spoke truth. Once again it knew not what to say exactly. Stories of Damion brought his character into view. Perhaps Golduck saw in him what Mewtwo saw: a beacon of hope.

Like bread from a toaster, the Duck Pokémon popped out of water. It welcomed Mewtwo with a high-pressure stream, testing its awareness. The Psychic-type raised a paw to the duck's attack. Mewtwo gained complete control over the liquid and cast it aside with one swipe. Golduck begged for a fight.

The clone denied. Disregarding its stance, the Duck Pokémon charged at Mewtwo. The supreme being sent a message without using mental manipulation. As soon as Golduck's bill closed in, Mewtwo snatched the Water-type by its throat. "I could rip your flesh apart cell by cell," it declared. "However, that behavior is beneath me." Golduck's limp body fell to the ground with a thud.

With its back to its attacker, the Genetic Pokémon posed a series of questions. It was curious to know the Water-type's initial thoughts about Damion – his demeanor, his words, his direction of his Pokémon. Mewtwo questioned his battle technique and how Golduck was defeated. It asked of the boy's treatment of Golduck once it was caught, and if it was comfortable fighting for him.

This clump of inquiries frustrated the duck. Its mind did not work as fast as the clone's. Golduck collected itself and returned to its feet. In an attempt to hinder the advanced specimen's goal, it answered its questions with one of its own.

"Gol, Gol-duck Golduck Gol?"

"Why am I asking you all these questions? That does not concern you. Answering them is a simple task."

"Golduck? Gol Golduck!"

"You are the unreasonable one, not I. I ask this of you to know him better, to help him reach his destination. Do you not wish this for him as well? Was he not a valiant partner?"

"Gol-duck. Duck, Golduck Gol, Gol Gol-duck."

"So you do wish him well. You say he was the only Trainer you could see yourself staying with. Then why are you still here?"

"Gol, Duck Gol Gol-duck. Golduck Golduck Golduck, Gol Gol-duck!"

"He caught you to help his friend and help himself. Your battle was impressive, you say? He pushed you to find your inner strength, encouraged you when you made mistakes and released you back to your home. That speaks volumes, Golduck. Thank you."

"Golduck, Golduck!"

"Come closer. I want to teach you something."

Mewtwo asked the duck if it had ever seen a glacier to which it shook its head. "It is a thing of beauty," said Mewtwo. The clone verbally painted a scene of an open tundra terrain. Giant blocks of ice extend to the depths of the ocean, it told, leaving a mark of wonder. The irony of such strength made from brittle frozen water encapsulated the power of nature.

Its tale enchanted Golduck. "They chill the skin and warm the eye," Mewtwo continued. The Psychic-type held out its paw, revealing an empty palm. Golduck stared anxiously. Mewtwo instructed it to recall the cave pool's floors. They were especially chilly in the winter months.

Golduck closed its eyes. Mewtwo did the same. It guided the duck's thoughts to a frigid land. Soon their skin shivered.

"How do you feel?" the clone asked. Golduck opened its eyes, looked around and shrugged. Mewtwo signaled to its paw. Shimmery ice crystals had formed on its digits. "This power can too be yours," said Mewtwo.

"Golduck?" the Water-type doubted. The supreme Pokémon waited for the duck to catch on.

Following a few more words, Golduck began panicking, for its breath puffed visible. Mewtwo showed a successful smirk. It aimed its paw towards the nearest cave wall. Within seconds a beam of ice shot out, layering the wall thick. "Your move," it said.

Golduck stepped forward and placed it claws atop its temples. The red jewel on its forehead gleamed. Mouth agape, the Duck Pokémon mimicked its instructor. A rowdy streak of ice filled the space beside the forerunning brushstroke.

It gave its newfound friend two thumbs up. Mewtwo congratulated Golduck on its accomplishment of learning a new attack. "That move is Ice Beam," it said. "Use it to conquer your Grass and Flying-type enemies." The duck nodded with indebtedness in its eyes. They formally parted ways.

Mewtwo watched as the Water-type plunged into its habitat. It decided the day was a success, lying face upwards on the cave's floor. Stalactites and stalagmites parlayed their bond drip by drip. Distant battles broke up the silence. Mewtwo's eyelids became heavy. Sleep called it by name. For once this cave felt like home. A wild Pokémon appeared. It slithered closer to get a better look at the clone. It was Ditto, the Transform Pokémon.

Similar to Mew this magenta free-form blob was capable of altering its DNA to replicate any physical object, including other Pokémon. Ditto did not stray too far from civilization as they irritated other species with their copying.

This particular Ditto simply wanted a cuddle buddy. Mewtwo somewhat obliged. It allowed the smiley-faced blob to sleep nearby so long as their bodies remained separate. The Genetic Pokémon finally settled on a comfortable sleeping position. It closed its tired eyes; and all was well the second day, though it dreamed a hazardous dream.

Dissonant currents erupted to and fro. Tranquility was forsaken. An oak-wood sailboat buoyed up the clone. It was wrapped in immovable rope around the vessel's aluminum mast. Swift gyration brought sickness to Mewtwo's stomach. It wanted to hurl, but it was far too distracted.

Miniature tsunamis smashed into its frame. Fish Pokémon flopped on and off the deck. Mewtwo took each punishing blow with pleasure, laughing with each consecutive watery assault. It challenged the angry ocean. "I am yours for the taking," it shouted. "Devour me, O Mighty Sea, and witness my resurrection; I am Mewtwo!" Its boast lulled the storm to a halt.

Mewtwo hung its head in exhaustion. Following a brief intermission, the boat regained a roaring rhythm. The waves began to spin and swirl into a monstrous monsoon. A shadow engulfed the stranded Psychic-type. The credence it held in its abilities dissipated by the second. Fear crept through its pores.

Mewtwo arose the third day in an alarmed sweat. It sat up, holding its weight with its paws pressed firmly on the cave floor. Between broken breaths, the clone addressed the Transform Pokémon by its side: "I need food." The blob's face deadpanned.

"Ditto?" Mewtwo shook its head.

"No, you cannot join me," it said."Thank you for keeping me company during the night nonetheless. Seize the day."

"Ditto!" the Pokémon echoed.

Mewtwo smiled at the Transform Pokémon before rising to its feet. It hovered to the cave's entrance. Limited sunlight stole through the opening. Mewtwo had slept in till dusk, which was unnatural. Perhaps its dream held the clone captive.

It camouflaged itself to its surroundings, making it invisible to the human eye. It floated past the cave's guard and into the sky. The Psychic-type mulled over its dining options. Of all the grub hubs in Kanto and Johto, Mewtwo chose the most peaceful.

A dairy farm stood just north of the coastal city of Olivine in Johto. Located on Route 39, Moomoo Farm was operated by a farming couple and their two young daughters. They treated their Pokémon with the utmost care. The farm's aura was rich and sweet. Miltank, a feminine Milk Cow Pokémon species, herded in the paddock's green pastures. Mewtwo admired their serene grace. So it paid them a visit.

In the farm's barn house was a seemingly endless supply of Moomoo Milk, a delicious beverage enjoyed by humans and Pokémon alike. The farmers also grew Berries and Apricorns outside their home.

One night Mewtwo revealed itself to them, apologizing for taking from their harvest. Generosity spilled from their lips. They showed trust in their hearts. It knew its identity was safe with them. Mewtwo returned here on occasion, mostly on sleepless nights. It was as if the couple could always sense its presence. If they found themselves awake, they made sure to greet the lonely Pokémon.

This night Mewtwo stood at the peak of the farm's grain house. It watched over the grazing Miltank, still invisible. As the third-day Sun descended into the dark, so did the clone onto the grass. The milk cows heard its steps. "Do not fear," Mewtwo said with its mind. "It is I, Mewtwo." The group of Miltank greeted it with friendly moos.

Mewtwo rubbed their heads to say hello. A playful one rolled a Berry over to the clone with its snout. Mewtwo picked up the fruit and took a bite. "Thank you, gentle soul," it said. The Miltank welcomed Mewtwo as one of their own, though there was one who detested its attendance.

From the barn house galloped a masculine Tauros, the Wild Bull Pokémon. Mewtwo did not recognize him from its last stopover.

The wild bull's thoughts were untranslatable. Mewtwo could not reason with it. Tauros communicated with rage and physicality. It stomped its hooves and pawed the ground. Its dark brown mane moved with the soft wind. Three tails with fur tufts at their tips whipped into a frenzy. Battle-scarred horns prepared to charge. Mewtwo readied an Ice Beam attack.

Tauros let out its battle cry. "Tauros, no!" a middle-aged woman ordered, exiting her home's front door. The bull obeyed. "Get back in the barn and stop being fussy. You should be resting!" The ice in Mewtwo's paw thawed, thus leaving a sight of dripping water. The woman shooed Tauros into the barn and turned back towards the paddock. "Lonely, is that you?" she whispered.

"Yes," the clone answered."I am here."

"It's nice to be with you again," she smiled.

"How rude of me." It removed its camouflage.

"Oh, there you are! Hello, Lonely. Sorry about Tauros. He got into a few rough battles while my husband and I went down to Olivine and has been ornery ever since."

"I understand, though I did not want to harm him."

"I know you didn't. Are you hungry by chance?"

"Yes. I am in dire need of sustenance."

"Well, you've come to just the right place. Lucky for you, there aren't any Trainers around."

Mewtwo followed the woman into the barn house. They were met with glares from Tauros. It snorted at the clone, attempting to assert dominance. The woman silenced Tauros. He was fairly new to the farm only recently being accepted by the other cows.

At the ripe age of five, the herd wished to breed in the near future. Tauros must first fit in however. The Miltank preferred him to stay in the barn house so as not to challenge every passerby. They enjoyed a peaceful environment, for which Mewtwo visited. It glared back at the bull.

Although its powerful aura made cowards of its foes, Tauros did not back down. The kind farmer interrupted their match. "You'll never beat Tauros in a staring contest," she joked. Mewtwo forfeited with a blink.

Wooden enclosures filled with hay aligned one after the next. Each included a feeding trough. Tauros took rest in the barn's centermost bed. The famished Psychic-type walked over to a large metal container of the farmers' Moomoo Milk. It was sweet at first taste and refreshing going down. Mewtwo reached to cup a full paw's worth, but was stopped by the Mrs. "Please, don't stick your hand in there," she urged. Mewtwo froze with embarrassment.

She pulled the handle of an old-fashioned refrigerator positioned in the barn's northeast corner. Bottles upon bottles of Moomoo Milk sat inside waiting to be distributed. The farmer removed two of the chilled beverages from the fridge and brought one to the clone. "Cheers," she said, tapping her bottle against Mewtwo's.

Milk ran down the clone's face as it guzzled until completion. The farmer laughed and drank a few gulps before returning her bottle to the fridge's side door. She saw the Genetic Pokémon out of the barn house to her home's adjoining garden.

"Come along, Lonely," she directed. "Our fruit trees are in full bloom."

"There is something I must tell you."

"Okay. But first, try these Tanga Berries I just planted this year. You'll love them!"

"Mmm, they are very delicious. Thank you."

"You're welcome, Lonely. Now, what was it you wanted to tell me?"

"This may be the last time you see my face. I no longer feel alone."

"Why, that's wonderful news! Who's the lucky lady?"

"What? No. I do not function on such desires."

"Uh, oh okay. You've had an epiphany then?"

"Of sorts. I may have found a place to belong, a place where I have purpose."

"I'm happy for you, Lonely. Do come and visit if you're not too busy."

"I am called Mewtwo. In exchange for your kindness I will protect your household if ever you are in danger. Maybe I will bring my friend around to meet you."

"Oh! So you have a friend! I would love to meet… him?"

"Yes, he is a passionate young Trainer on the verge of something special."

"Well, Mewtwo, it sounds like you truly admire him."

Mewtwo did admire the boy. His maturity seemed far beyond his years. Tragedy at a young age did not define his perception; it instead refined it. This ability to adapt and grow from his transgressions was the principle that escaped Mewtwo from the time of its birth.

It wished to embrace its humanity if that meant it would find a true purpose. Mewtwo wanted to harmonize the connection between people and Pokémon, and Damion could be its catalyst. Their interests appeared to match, though it was reluctant to impose its goals on him.

The farm keeper thanked Mewtwo for stopping by and opening up to her. During their previous meetings, she did all of the talking. It spoke only in hellos and goodbyes. She nicknamed it Lonely because of the sadness in its eyes.

Conversely, there was none present this evening. Mewtwo looked stronger and more determined. Its skin glowed with confidence. The clone partook in more Berries before bidding its acquaintance farewell. "I'll miss you, Lonely," she said. "I always do." The Psychic-type floated away, locking eyes with her until it reached the clouds.

Whirl Islands' western rock enticed the Genetic Pokémon. An urge to locate the boy came about. They had been apart for long enough, it decided. To discover Damion's whereabouts, Mewtwo returned to the remote Johtonian isles.

At the peak of the islands' western section, the clone prepared for meditation. With its digits pressed against its temples, the Psychic-type thought of nothing. It cleared its mind and allowed the universe to send its gift of infinite knowledge.

But something went wrong. The clone's focus glitched in and out. Stormy seas from inside its dreams gave an eerie encore. It pictured the monstrous monsoon. Chilling winds kicked up. Mist drizzled across Mewtwo's face. It sensed a powerful disturbance.

The cloned opened its eyes. A slab of ocean rushed towards it, falling from above. Mewtwo was agile to avoid it. The monsoon lived. Within its watery walls flapped the wings of the island guardian. The bird's final flutter dispelled the storm as it took its place upon the islands' eastern throne. Lugia: Guardian of the Seas, thought Mewtwo, without knowing how it knew. The grandest bird of all braved the supreme Pokémon psychic to psychic.

"Your name eludes me, creature," spoke the bird.

"I am Mewtwo, a clone Pokémon created by the humans to reign supreme."

"You are only a supreme trespasser. I gave you three chances."

"I come in peace."

"You lie much like them."

"My being here is strictly meditative."

"There is a mountaintop where nirvana is obtainable; still you have chosen to disturb my land."

"There I cannot stay."

"Fear weakens your heart, clone."

"The peak of Mount Silver belongs to a man who has earned my respect."

"I require that same respect."

"… I do not wish to fight."

"Ignoring my dominion was a mistake, Mewtwo. You are not the decider of your reckoning!"

The Diving Pokémon ascended its silver-white feathers. From its long, slender neck and rigid, beak-like mouth surged a gust of aerial energy. Aeroblast, the attack was named, signified Lugia's ancient power. This spiraling beam rocked the clone, discarding it into the water below. The flow of time slowed its stroll. Sinking closer to defeat reawakened the clone's fury.

Mewtwo's eyes flashed open. It streaked out into the surface. It hovered across from its opponent, dripping water from its tail. Between its palms Mewtwo brewed a ghastly Shadow Ball. The super-effective hit sent Lugia crashing into its eastern throne.

They took their battle to the sky. Hydro Pumps and Ice Beams shot through the air. Innocent migrators were knocked off their path. While the Sun set, the duel's intensity rose. Neither Psychic-type conceded. For hours they fought to prove which ego was greatest.

'Twas a test with no end in sight. Mewtwo was the only Pokémon strong enough to withstand the wrath of Lugia on this side of the world. Stamina was the bird's forte. Its health reservoir stood plentiful in addition to using the regenerative move labeled Recover by the humans.

The Genetic Pokémon forfeited its ability to regenerate its health when despondence consumed its mind. It dodged and weaved with precision. Although Lugia was a psychic, it could not teleport. It looked to timing rather than speed.

Mewtwo's swift maneuvers fared well. That is, until Lugia formed a cunning strategy. Using its own psychic powers, it scrambled the clone's teleports with a succession of two attacks. Once a Hydro Pump or Aeroblast left its mouth, Lugia followed them with a Psychic attack.

When Mewtwo attempted to avoid the first attack by teleporting, the psychic wave disrupted its movement, causing mental suffering. After many cycles of this, Mewtwo's energy began to deplete. It caught an Aeroblast to the head.

Lugia pounced on the opportunity. The bird's huge hand-like wings gripped its adversary as it forced Mewtwo to the ground. Mewtwo contested by activating its protective blue orb, which shoved Lugia backwards.

Alas, the deep-sea guardian bested the clone. It gloated in the face of the Pokémon who called itself supreme. The imposing bird declared: "I, Lugia, Guardian of the Seas, hereby denounce the power of this imposter Pokémon." Hatred bubbled inside the clone's soul.

Before Lugia's final blow culminated, Mewtwo collected a block of ice around its paw. A freezing fist negated the Diving Pokémon's finisher. It landed on a small patch of sand at the southern island's cave entrance. Mewtwo joined its foe, floating above in condescension.

Biting the apple, Mewtwo gave in to lustful revenge. It layered the bird in ice, starting from the feet up. "Ignoring your dominion was no mistake, Lugia," the clone boasted. "I will rest where I please." Lugia's squirming died down as ice crept up its frame.

"We will war again, clone," it replied. Mewtwo's eyes tightened. The beam from its three-orbed paw heightened in severity.

The Genetic Pokémon basked in its own power. "War has no future." An icy grave awaited Lugia. With its slender neck almost frozen solid, the Legendary bird had no choice but to beg. Mewtwo intended to finish what it started. Lugia disrespected its supreme power. Mercy was for those with good intentions, so the clone believed. Notwithstanding, it resigned.

A helpless cry echoed in the Genetic Pokémon's omnipotent mind. Its Ice Beam ceased so to shift focus to the sound's location. If Mewtwo were to find the victim, it must follow its heart. Lugia's fate would have to wait. The clone touched down to approach the fallen bird.

Its detached wing feathers laid scattered across the sand. Silver Wings were seldom in a human's possession. Mewtwo collected some to divvy to ones who it deemed fit to challenge Lugia. It wished a Poké Ball life on the bird, reciprocating its insolent behavior. Mewtwo departed with a closing remark.

"Your time will come," it said, shattering the ice with its mind. "Another day."

The cry grew louder while Mewtwo soared at extreme speeds. Speech which the clone could not decipher jumbled its brain. It flew east to perch on the closest skyscraper. Goldenrod City was famous for its Radio Tower. It stood as a manmade marvel.

The internal distress signal lured Mewtwo's heart south. It glided past Route 34 and into Ilex Forest. Pin-drop silence overtook the Psychic-type's senses. A Noctowl, the Owl Pokémon with trident-shaped horns and brown plumage, stared and hooted with an upside-down face.

Mewtwo paid it no mind, along with other googly-eyed Bug-type bystanders. The clone paced across the dense forest's pond waters. Wild Pokémon emerged from their hideouts to attend the supreme spectacle. Shimmery Silver Wings circled Mewtwo's aura. Nerve impulses bounced around the clone's skull.

At the edge of the pitch-black forest, Mewtwo spotted odd footprints leading some distance east to Union Cave. They were relatively fresh, perhaps a few hours old. This was a common resting period for humans. The indents reeked of suspicion. Teleportation was temporarily hindered by the clone's incessant head pains. The Genetic Pokémon stepped into Azalea Town with the intention of following the footprints.

There was a change in plan, however, when it walked past the Poké Ball smith's home. Shining in Kurt's window were the golden rings of Umbreon. He pawed at the glass to grab the clone's attention. "Is it really you?" it asked, nearing the glass. The Moonlight Pokémon nodded its head with vigor. Mewtwo opened the window with its mind. Umbreon jumped into its arms, sobbing.

"What happened?" it questioned."Where is Damion?"

"Bree… Umbreon, Umbreon!"

"They took him? Who did this?!"

"Bree, Umbreon, Umbreon Bree…"

Mewtwo let out its battle cry. Placing Umbreon on the ground, it dropped to its knees with its paws clung to its short horns. The supreme Pokémon searched within itself for any kind of answer. It refused to lose its only friend. The Dark-type did not know how Damion was taken or who was responsible. Everything happened in a flash. He leaned against Mewtwo to comfort it.

At the bottom of its mind Mewtwo remembered the portal it once made. It traced the portal's spatial energy from memory. Instinctual cues sprouted hope in the clone. It rose to its feet and followed its heart north. Umbreon followed alongside.

A barrage of steps led them to a heap of dirt and rubble. Umbreon informed Mewtwo of Team Rocket's earlier antics. He described that underneath these remains was a well full of wild Slowpoke. Mewtwo peeked into the gaping hole which appeared to be Pokémon-made. "Stay here," Mewtwo instructed. The Moonlight Pokémon rejected its suggestion by jumping into the well. Mewtwo descended with the utmost grace.

A foul stench suffocated the Pokémon, yet they carried on. Mewtwo sensed remnants of the portal's energy coming from the deepest part of Slowpoke Well. Fragmented flashbacks plagued the Dark-type's mind. The well served similar to a maze.

Corridor upon corridor steered to nothing except a herd of Dopey Pokémon. Mewtwo moved towards the pack once Umbreon's questioning took a turn for the worse.

Telepathy proved to be much more effective. The clone interrogated the pack leader. It retold the battle it had with the present Umbreon. The herd felt sorry for its misfortune, though their chief claimed it was winning before they were rudely interrupted. Mewtwo asked if they had any information of where the goons might have taken Damion. They did not investigate; 'twas none of their concern.

The duo left the pink Pokémon to their mindless staring. They reached the well's furthest wall shortly after. Mewtwo ran its orbed digits along the barrier. He was here, it thought. Umbreon nudged the clone's leg. Mewtwo shook its head. Maybe Kurt could help them when he regained consciousness. The Moonlight Pokémon told Mewtwo of his hospitality. They agreed to return to the Poké Ball smith's home.

When they reached the gaping hole, a tingling sensation flooded the Psychic-type's brain. "Stop," it said. Umbreon obeyed. Mewtwo followed its heart to the source of the stench. "Why am I drawn to this filth?" Mewtwo asked rhetorically. Umbreon pointed out the possibility of the clone needing to handle some unfinished business.

"Bree, Bree, Umbreon Bree?" the Dark-type hinted.

"No," Mewtwo assured."I do not need to relieve myself. Something about this pile is odd, is it not?"

"Umbreon, Bree."

"I thought so too. But what could it be?"

"Bree, Umbreon Umbreon, Bree-Bree."

"The Slowpoke are the only Pokémon nesting here, yes. Hmm…"

"Bree?"

"And they are not known to be organized quite like this."

With its psychic powers Mewtwo lifted the pile of feces from one side of the corridor to the other. The Pokémon's eyes lit up. A secret door revealed. They hurried towards it. The Psychic-type raised Umbreon off the ground by its ears. "This time, stay here," demanded the clone. The Dark-type obliged as Mewtwo turned the cellar's wheel knob. Its heart released from fear, Mewtwo leaped into the underground shaft.

It landed in a damp and clammy room. Not a speck of light stole through. The clone activated its blue orb shield. Vibrant blue light uncloaked a human held hostage. Mewtwo recognized the captive's hairstyle. "Damion!" said Mewtwo, untying his binds with its paws. "Damion, can you hear me?" He merely mustered a mumble. The clone looked into his defeated eyes.

"My friend, I have come for you."

Damion was freed from the chamber by Mewtwo's psychic power. His Dark-type friend greeted him with purrs and licks. Mewtwo slung the boy over its shoulder and ascended to the surface. It was unsure whether it had enough physical strength to carry both the boy and Umbreon in flight.

Because of the Moonlight Pokémon's resistance to psychic energy, he would not be able to float by the clone's side. However, Umbreon hatched a plan. He jumped back through the window Mewtwo had opened. The feline returned with Damion's vest and Bag strap in his mouth, plopping them on the ground. A Great Ball rolled out. Umbreon pressed the Ball's central button with his nose. Xatu appeared, her health fully restored. She squawked at the clone.

"Silence, fowl!" Mewtwo ordered. "I have rescued your Trainer." The mystical bird sheathed her wings and lowered her head in submission. Mewtwo commended Umbreon for his demonstration of wit. It instructed Xatu to carry the boy on its back en route to the clone's next destination. Umbreon tilted his head in cute confusion. "I am not designed for passengers," explained Mewtwo.

Umbreon would be clutched in Mewtwo's arms for the duration of the flight. Before their departure, the Genetic Pokémon plucked a Silver Wing from its surrounding aura, handing it to Umbreon. "Give this to the kind man you spoke of."

Umbreon scurried indoors. He hopped onto Kurt's queen-sized bed and laid the brilliant feather beside his resting head. Xatu held Damion upright with her mind as Mewtwo fit the apparel back onto the boy's body. Umbreon picked up Xatu's Great Ball in its mouth and gave it to the clone. Mewtwo replaced the Ball into Damion's vest pocket and carried the Moonlight Pokémon in its arms. The psychics crossed the starlit sky, heading northeast towards Mahogany Town.

At the northernmost tip of the Johto region rested a large lake said to have been created by a group of rampaging Gyarados. This Lake of Rage was home to one of the region's most feared Pokémon: the Red Gyarados. Off-colored scales oscillated about the lake's surface. Those who risked collecting them often paid a fatal price.

All Pokémon species had been documented with cosmetic genetic mutations. The Gyarados species were red instead of blue when they evolved from gold-colored Magikarp, which were normally orange.

This was called their Shiny form. (On average, Pokémon Trainers encountered these rarities 0.00012% of the time.) Visitors and Trainers vacated the lake ever since the Red Gyarados was forced into evolution at the hands of Team Rocket's radio wave emission. A handful of Fishermen occupied the lake's perimeter but never entered the battle-tested waters.

Behind the Lake of Rage a forest stretched for miles. It was the ideal retreat for Damion to recuperate. Mewtwo and company stationed in the thick of the unoccupied woodland. The clone propped Damion against a hardy tree trunk. His Pokémon curled up next to him.

The boy needed nourishment. Mewtwo unfastened the Trainer's Bag. All it found for human consumption were two bottles of Fresh Water. The caring clone cracked one open and gave it to Damion. Water spilled in his shaky hands. Xatu and Umbreon helped serve their friend.

Mewtwo looked on. In Damion's safety the Genetic Pokémon found the peace for which it so desperately searched. Defending the pure of heart, it decided, would be its new purpose.

Mewtwo advanced towards its friend. "How are you feeling?" The boy slowly nodded his head. The clone placed its paw on Damion's shoulder. "Get some rest," it said. "You will be stronger by the morning." Mewtwo turned to walk away. Umbreon blocked its path, asking of the clone's motive.

It assured him it would return. Mewtwo felt a tug at its tail. In a faint, raspy voice Damion uttered, "Thank… you." Mewtwo acknowledged the Trainer's gratitude and set out for the Lake of Rage.

It stopped a yard or two short of the lake's bank to gaze upon the body of water. Moonlight glistened off its nighttime veneer. Mewtwo splashed itself with saltwater. These past three days were busy, and all seemed well.

Mewtwo stared into the lake's reflective soul, splashing itself again. When the ripples faded, a majestic reflection came into view. Mewtwo adjusted its line of sight, reading the mind of this new challenger:

Greetings, Supreme One; I am Suicune.