Daniel was silent throughout the short flight home from the Pokémon League in DC. It had been so much to take in in such a short time; the whole concept of a "Mega Evolution" was a head-spinner. He glanced at Blaziken's Pokéball, wondering what would happen to his partner if he underwent this Mega Evolution. The warning Andrew and the Mega Guru had given him sent a shiver up his spine. He could recall times when Blaze was activated when Blaziken had been a Torchic and the raw power his first Pokémon had unleashed in a berserker's rage. While Daniel had been able to keep things under control with a little help, the thought of a berserk Blaziken while receiving this power boost worried Daniel. So absorbed was Daniel with his thoughts that he didn't even notice Salamence swoop down and land in his front yard until the Dragon type gave him a gentle nudge.
"Huh?" Daniel said, startled. He smiled as he realized where he was and climbed off Salamence. "Thanks Salamence, we'll be going on a longer journey tomorrow. Get a good rest." The Dragon Pokémon warbled a "thanks" and padded over to her favorite spot in the yard, a spot where she always loved to sleep the night away, dreaming of soaring in the skies.
Daniel looked around the yard, then walked to the backyard where his other Pokémon were located. He had only brought Salamence and Blaziken with him to DC and had left the others back home to recover from another loss. It ate away at him, that loss to Marco. He had been a bit distracted at the end, but that was no excuse for losing, especially in a battle he could've won.
A teenage girl was busy grooming her Umbreon in the backyard.
"Hey Daniel, you're back!" Daniel's younger sister Melissa said, looking up. She was a Pokémon coordinator, but was getting interested in becoming a Pokémon Ranger. She certainly had the athletic build of one.
"Hey sis," Daniel answered with a grin, scanning the yard.
He spotted Sceptile in his favorite tree, an oak tree that didn't dominate the forest, but stood strong nonetheless. Swampert was enjoying the sunset in her little mud hole she had at the edge of the yard, where the yard turned into forest. Lucario and Gallade were sparring nearby, keeping up with daily exercises despite the day off for research by Daniel. Once Daniel got his Pokémon's attention, he told them of the impending journey.
"Guys, we're in for one heckuva a battle coming up, but if we succeed, we'll get something that will really help us to become stronger as a team and as an individual," Dan told his Pokémon, "And tomorrow, we're going to climb a mountain, both physically and metaphorically."
"What are you talking about?" Melissa asked, looking confused.
Daniel chuckled. "I ask myself that a lot." He headed inside and began to pack for the trip.
"Going somewhere?" his mother asked. She was a middle aged woman with flaming red hair and had maintained herself relatively well.
Daniel rolled his eyes. "I've been traveling all over the United States and you ask me if I'm going somewhere? Really Mom?"
"I just care about you," his mother answered, "You're my son and no matter how big you grow, you're always going to be my little child." She punctuated that statement with a hug.
"Love you too Mom," Daniel said, squirming away before continuing to pack.
"Where are you going now?" his mom asked, eyeing the newly packed travel backpack.
Daniel paused briefly before finishing his packing. "Mount Mitchell in North Carolina."
"Make sure you pack some bug spray," his mother said before leaving the room, "I hear the local insects are fiercer down there."
"I will Mom," Daniel said, grinning.
(The Next Morning)
Daniel stood on his front porch, enjoying the cool morning weather. Only Salamence remained out of her Pokéball, ready to go. This was it. He had to banish the doubts from his head and plow straight ahead. He was as ready as he was going to be. He placed his Orioles cap on his head and began to climb onto Salamence when a shout made him pause. Sure enough, there was his best friend, Caitlynn, running down the dirt road, her long brown hair streaming behind her. Her Plusle and Minun ran along the ground behind her, mimicking her shout to get his attention.
"I was wondering if you were going to see me off," Daniel said teasingly as Caitlynn stopped beside Salamence, bending over to try and catch her breath.
"You aren't escaping me that easily," Caitlynn shot back between breaths, "You know I'm coming with you."
Daniel frowned. "This is a journey I have to do alone. The Guru said so."
Caitlynn glared at him. "Since when are you going to listen to some mysterious Guru that somehow stopped time during your battle against that b*** Marco over your best friend?"
"Trust me on this one," Daniel said gravely, "I wish I could take you with me, I really do. But I can't."
"Why not?" Caitlynn demanded, "We've done almost everything together since we met in middle school, even though others told us not to. Why split up now?"
Daniel shook his head. "I just can't. I'm not supposed to."
"Well the Guru can't complain if I simply followed you," Caitlynn said, trying to improvise. "You technically didn't take me with you, I just stayed right on your tail."
"Caitlynn," Daniel began.
"Shush!" Caitlynn replied, "I'm going with you!"
"No you're not."
"I'd like to see you try and stop me," Caitlynn challenged.
Daniel grabbed a brown and pink Pokéball off his belt and tossed it into the air. Out came his Gallade, who looked around to see why he'd been summoned.
"Caitlynn, I'm really sorry about this. Gallade, use Psychic to hold Caitlynn still." The Blade Pokémon looked shocked for a second before a blue glow appeared in his eyes.
"Don't you dare!" Caitlynn warned as a blue aura surrounded her. "Let me go! You can't do this!"
"Forgive me," Daniel said softly as he and Gallade climbed onto Salamence. The Dragon Pokémon took off with a roar into the sky and just as quickly as Cat had been trapped, she was released from the Psychic. Daniel recalled the Fighting/Psychic type back into his Pokéball as he nudged Salamence southwards, wiping away a tear.
Back on the ground, Caitlynn was furious as she watched the blue dragon soar off without her. Fury soon gave way to sadness which then gave way to worry. If what Daniel had told her was true, then her friend was facing the battle of his life, and for once she wasn't going to be there to help him. A single tear ran down her cheek as her eyes followed Salamence until the dragon was out of sight. "Be careful, Daniel. I don't know what I'd do if something happened to you and I wasn't there for you." Her Minun jumped onto her shoulder and tried to comfort her. Caitlynn looked around for Minun's counterpart before a look of puzzlement came over her features. "Minun, where's Plusle?"
(A Few Hours of Flight Later)
Daniel looked at his map, the modern one, as Salamence soared through the skies. It had been easy from Maryland to Virginia and now they were approaching the VA/NC border at a rapid pace. Daniel reached back into his backpack for a snack and was greeted with a sharp shock.
"Yow!" Daniel exclaimed, pulling his hand back. "Salamence, land. We've got a problem." The Dragon type chuffed and began to descend.
Daniel pulled the backpack off his back and held it at arm's length, wary of another shock. As soon as Salamence touched the ground, Daniel looked inside the bag to see Caitlynn's Plusle munching on one of the cookies Daniel's mother had packed for him. The Cheering Pokémon looked up at Daniel and swallowed, grinning sheepishly all the while. He held up the cookie he had half eaten at Daniel, as a pseudo peace offering.
"It appears we have a stowaway," Daniel commented to his Salamence. The Dragon Pokémon sniffed Plusle before doing the dragon equivalent of a shrug, eager to get back into the air. Turning his attention to the little Electric type, Daniel couldn't help but chuckle at the impetuousness of his friend's Pokémon. "Is Minun in there as well?" Plusle shook its head and began launching into a hurried explanation.
"Easy there!" Daniel cried, holding his hands up, "I can't understand you if you go too fast! Bah, what does it matter? We're at the halfway point, I've half a mind to turn around and drop you off back with your Trainer." Plusle gasped at this and climbed onto Salamence's back, crossing his little arms in front of him in a defiant gesture.
Daniel sighed. "Or I could just take you with me. You're as stubborn as your Trainer" He had had a heavy heart throughout the first part of this journey, the guilt at what he'd done to his best friend hanging over him like a storm cloud. The discovery of Caitlynn's Plusle cheered him up a little, knowing some part of her was with him on this arduous journey. "Alright, Salamence, let's keep going, we're going to start heading west soon." The Dragon type roared and took off again, rejuvenated by the brief rest stop. Daniel chuckled as he scratched Plusle in his favorite spot; right behind the ears. Perhaps this journey wasn't going to be so lonely after all.
'I just hope Caitlynn isn't too mad once all this is done,' he thought to himself.
(Mount Mitchell State Park)
Daniel pulled out the old map the Champion had given him, comparing it to the newer map he had as Salamence glided lazily into the park. He saw the old path, compared it to where it would be on the new map, and began guiding Salamence in that direction. Daniel could see the leaves partway through changing into their fiery fall colors. Red, yellow, brown, and green covered the landscape as it was obvious the park was transitioning from summer into fall.
"A little to the right and start descending girl," Daniel told his Salamence, "We're almost there." Caitlynn's Plusle climbed up onto his shoulder, nuzzling up against Daniel's neck. "Yes, we can eat something when we land. You sure are one hungry little critter." Plusle just smiled and hung on as Salamence swooped down and landed with a thud on the ground. Daniel looked around on the path Salamence had landed on, taking in his bearings. This was the main path that should branch off onto the other trails used in the park. The key was finding this never used pathway. Daniel returned Salamence to her Pokéball and began walking along the wide pathway. It wasn't too long before he spotted a sign that said "Trail closed for maintenance".
"Do you think this is it?" Daniel asked Plusle, seated comfortably on his right shoulder. The Cheering Pokémon simply pointed at the maps Daniel held in front of him. "I thought so too." Daniel climbed over the sign and began climbing the mountain.
(Mountaintop)
'Master!' Mewtwo communicated telepathically, 'I sense that the boy we located a few days ago has arrived and is climbing the mountain.'
An elderly man rose from his slumber, clad in only a brown robe and aided by a maple staff with a Keystone attached to the top. "So, Daniel's decided to come after all." He closed his wise eyes again, taking a deep breath. "I sense his determination to win, as well as a bit of guilt. Hmmmm."
'Why would he feel guilty about trying to unlock the powers of Mega Evolution?' Mewtwo queried, 'All humans desire power, what makes this one any different?'
The Mega Guru chuckled. "My friend, you still struggle to remove the veil of hatred from your eyes. This man is not like your creators. Just look at the last two who received Mega Rings; Andrew and Mika. They both were kind to their Pokémon, and they helped treat your wounds after they defeated you."
'They are two among billions,' Mewtwo protested.
"Sometimes, all it takes is one domino to fall to change the paths of millions," The Guru countered cryptically, "The human race has its rotten eggs, no doubt about it. But there are more kind hearts than evil ones out there. You need to learn to not let a bad apple spoil a whole barrel, my friend. Wake me up when he's close." The Genetic Pokémon simply turned and faced the path that Daniel was bound to walk while the Guru closed his eyes again in slumber.
(DC)
Andrew was going through his morning routine when a pink light flickered in his room, drawing his attention. He walked over to his desk where his Mega Ring was blinking occasionally.
"I guess Daniel is getting closer to gaining a Mega Ring," Andrew said to himself, remembering the tough battle against the Mega Guru and his Mewtwo. "Good luck Daniel, you're going to need it."
(Mount Mitchell State Park)
Daniel continued along the path, which was hard to follow given how little this trail had been used. It was quiet on the mountain side. Only the occasional chirp from Flying type Pokémon broke the silence. This put Daniel on edge, as the last time it had gotten this quiet for him out in the wild; a pack of Mightyena had ambushed him. Grabbing a couple of Pokéballs off his belt, Daniel decided it was best to be prepared. He threw the Pokéballs and called upon his Sceptile and Blaziken.
"Sceptile, I need an eye in the sky and the trees here are perfect for you to keep an eye out," Daniel explained, "Blaziken, you're with me in case Sceptile spots something. Stay alert." Both Pokémon nodded and began with their respective tasks. Sceptile climbed a nearby beech tree and began leaping from branch to branch, drawing a couple of squawks of surprise from nearby Starly, but otherwise it was quiet.
"Okay partner, from what I've heard about this Mega Evolution stuff," Daniel said to Blaziken, "It's going to be a bit difficult to control. My guess is that the Mega Evolution rush is going to be similar to how you had problems with Blaze in your younger forms." Blaziken winced at the memory.
As a Torchic and Combusken, the Fire type struggled to control his special ability, often going on out of control rampages before either being stopped by another Pokémon or simply running out of energy. Many items got scorched, but nobody had even been seriously injured from Blaziken's rampages. It was a common problem with younger Fire types, Daniel had found out from research. Only by evolving into Blaziken had Daniel's first Pokémon been able to overcome and control Blaze. It had been different for his Grass and Water types; while they didn't end up in an uncontrollable fit of rage like Torchic and Combusken had, both Sceptile and Swampert had had their own issues controlling their special abilities; Overgrow and Torrent respectively. As a Treecko and a Grovyle, Daniel's Grass type had to keep moving to avoid taking root and being rendered immobile. It was similar to Ingrain except it severely crippled the normally nimble Treecko and Grovyle. As a Mudkip and a Marshtomp, Daniel's Water type was slowed down by the icy rush of energy obtained by Torrent and on one occasion Marshtomp actually froze over. Daniel had forfeited that battle immediately and went to work on defrosting his frozen Mud Fish Pokémon the rest of that afternoon. The focus here was on the Fire type, however.
"So, I'm hoping you can remember when you first overcame Blaze and took control," Daniel continued, "That might make it easier for you to take control of this Mega Evolution." Blaziken simply nodded and the two continued along the trail. The climb was rather uneventful, save for one incident with a local Shiftry who felt his territory was being encroached upon. A Flamethrower and an Energy Ball was more than enough to convince the Grass/Dark type otherwise. Daniel recalled Sceptile as they neared the summit, the trees having thinned considerably.
"I think this is it," Daniel said to the Blaze Pokémon walking beside him. "You ready buddy?"
"Blaziken," came the confident answer. The Fire/Fighting type smiled and the two of them climbed up the final slope. Plusle hid in Daniel's backpack, peering out from under the cover flap. The sight that greeted them as they reached the top was rather curious. After all, it isn't every day you see a Mewtwo having afternoon tea with an old man, the same old man that had appeared to Daniel in the middle of his battle with Marco.
"Welcome Daniel," the Mega Guru said, not even looking up. "Would you care to join us?"
Daniel glanced at Blaziken, unsure of how to react. "Umm, sure?"
The Mega Guru smiled. "I sense many questions on the tip of your tongue, young man. Have some tea, freshly brewed of course, and I shall give you that which you have come for."
"Thank you," was all Daniel could say. He and Blaziken walked over to the little picnic area the Guru had set up. They were seated by a cave in the hillside, surrounded by a pine grove of the evergreen trees. It was all too surreal for Daniel as he glanced at the Genetic Pokémon seated next to the Mega Guru.
"Do not be shy," the Guru said with another smile. "This is my home and you are my honored guest. I'm glad I could treat you to such a wondrous view. The mountains are especially beautiful this time of year. Fall is my favorite season, not only for the beautiful sights, but the crisp autumn air always brings a smile to my face. Now, how can I be of service to you?"
"With all due respect sir," Daniel began, "I thought I was getting summoned here to get a Mega Ring, not afternoon tea."
"Ah, but you haven't had my tea!" The Guru exclaimed, pouring a cup. "The mountain streams are clearer than crystal, giving me plenty of pure water that gives the tea that extra oomph of flavor. Try some."
'I think he was asking why you haven't given him the Mega Ring yet,' Mewtwo said telepathically to everyone.
"So you are a Psychic type," Daniel murmured, more to himself than anyone else.
'Yes, child, I am,' Mewtwo said, 'And our battle will be painfully boring if you brought a bunch of Dark types to try and gain a type advantage.'
"Now now, let's save that for the battle," The Guru admonished, "I don't see why we can't enjoy a spot of tea before moving on to such business."
"I guess," Daniel said quietly as he sat down on the mat, Blaziken joining him.
"I would imagine the journey up the mountain was a bit taxing," The Guru continued, offering Daniel and Blaziken a cup of tea "So rest up a bit and I will gather that which you seek."
"Thank you," Daniel replied, taking the tea. He hesitantly took a sip of the tea, pulling a bit of a face at the bitter flavor. "Do you have any sweetener?"
"Ah, I suppose young people like you aren't quite ready to savor the intricate flavors of my tea." The Guru commented, grabbing another pot, "Fair enough. Add some of this fresh Beedrill honey to it to solve your problem."
"Beedrill honey?" Daniel repeated, surprised, "Isn't that really hard to obtain?" The sweet substance did the trick though, as the tea was much tastier with the addition of the sweet honey.
The Guru chuckled as he walked over to his cave. "Difficulty is only a point of view. Make friends with the colony and I guarantee you'll always have a fresh supply."
"That is one way to do it," Daniel agreed as the Mega Guru came back to the mat holding two items. The first was a simple black armband with a black, red, and cream colored stone in the middle. The second was a black stone ring embedded with a smaller stone that seemed to almost swirl with every color of the light spectrum. The first item was carried over to Blaziken.
"This is the Blazikenite I was telling you about," The Mega Guru explained, placing the armband on Blaziken's right arm, "It is the Mega Stone that allows Blaziken to Mega Evolve." The Guru then gave the second item to Daniel. "And this is the Mega Ring that you will use to Mega Evolve your Pokémon."
Daniel placed the item on his right wrist, flexing his arm and getting used to the feel. "Cool."
'Now, if you are ready to earn your Mega Ring, you will prepare yourself!" Mewtwo said and swept the picnic area out from under Daniel and Blaziken, knocking the two of them unceremoniously onto their backs. None of the food and tea spilled thanks to Mewtwo's psychic powers and the picnic supplies was placed neatly in front of the Mega Guru's cave.
Daniel was up in a flash. "That was rude. If you're so ready to lose, then let's go!"
Mewtwo glared at him. 'You'll find I'm not such an easy target.'
The Mega Guru frowned, then merely walked to the other side of the little battle field. "I hope you're ready, young Trainer, for if you win, you get to keep the items I gave you. If you lose, I shall take them back."
"Then I simply won't lose!" Daniel exclaimed, looking at his partner. "Blaziken, I'm going to save you for last, okay?" The Blaze Pokémon nodded and stood several yards behind Daniel, ready to be called upon when needed. Daniel grabbed a pink and brown Pokéball off his belt. "Gallade! Time for battle!"
Mewtwo smirked as the white and green Fighting/Psychic type appeared in front of Daniel. He then lifted his tail to reveal a small device with a purple and blue stone attached to it. 'Let us begin!'
"Can Mewtwo Mega Evolve too?" Daniel asked himself quietly when he saw the Mega Stone attached to Mewtwo's tail, "No time to worry about that! Gallade, use Psychic!" The Blade Pokémon's eyes began glowing blue before Gallade slammed the ground with his arm blades, unleashing a wave of psychic energy at Mewtwo. The Genetic Pokémon smirked again as he held his arms in front of him protectively, taking the Psychic with no trouble at all.
'Pathetic,' Mewtwo taunted, his own eyes glowing blue, 'THIS is a Psychic attack!" Mewtwo simply held up a three-digit hand before his own wave of Psychic energy was unleashed. Daniel was helpless as the energy sent Gallade flying. There was no telling how far Gallade would have flown had the Blade Pokémon not been stopped by a nearby pine tree. The tree splintered from the blown, but Gallade managed to retain consciousness.
"So much power!" Daniel said in awe, "How can I keep up?"
"Shadow Ball!" The Guru commanded. Mewtwo created a shadowy ball of energy and launched it at Gallade, who had no time to get out of the way. The resulting explosion knocked Gallade out.
"Return Gallade," Daniel said simply, stunned. He looked at the Guru and Mewtwo before grabbing another Pokéball, this one dark blue and sky blue.
"Salamence, time for battle!" The Dragon Pokémon roared upon materializing, sending her best glare at Mewtwo. The Psychic type returned the glare stoically, unfazed.
"You may have the first move again," The Guru motioned, a smile on his elderly face.
Daniel clenched his fist, fearful of another quick round. "Salamence, Dragonbreath!" The Dragon/Flying type inhaled deeply before exhaling a wave of green flames at Mewtwo.
"Flamethrower!" the Guru commanded. Mewtwo simply held up another three digit hand and created a stream of fire that canceled out the incoming Dragonbreath.
"What?!" Daniel exclaimed, shocked.
'I am very proficient in pyro-kinesis," Mewtwo explained, 'As well as arboreal, electrical, and cryo-kinesis. Observe.' The Psychic type held up his hand again and unleashed a jagged blue beam of icy energy.
"MOVE!" Daniel yelled. Salamence rolled to the side in the air, narrowly avoiding the Ice Beam attack. "Stay at range and use Flamethrower!" Salamence unleashed another barrage of flames, which finally forced Mewtwo to move and avoid the Fire type attack. "Again!"
"Thunderbolt!" the Guru commanded. Electricity crackled across Mewtwo's frame before a beam of electricity shot across the sky towards Salamence. The Dragon type roared in pain from the attack, but kept on flying strong.
"Dragonbreath!" Daniel shouted, throwing a fist into the air, "Follow with Aerial Ace!"
"Shadow Ball," the Guru said simply. Another barrage of green flames was intercepted by a dark ball of energy from Mewtwo before he was blindsided by a lightning quick Salamence, surrounded by several streaks of white energy from the Aerial Ace.
"Keep it up!" Daniel yelled. Mewtwo was hit two more times before he had had it. As Salamence wheeled around for another attack, Mewtwo unleashed another jagged blue beam of icy energy that slammed into Salamence. The Dragon type roared one last time before crashing into the ground, out cold in more ways than one.
"Nicely done," The Guru complimented.
"Salamence!" Daniel cried, running over to the fallen Dragon Pokémon. He cradled her head briefly before recalling Salamence. Daniel returned to his spot and grabbed a brown and blue Pokéball. "Swampert, time for battle!" The Mud Fish Pokémon appeared and crouched on all fours, eyeing the legendary Pokémon opposite her warily.
"Well well, a Swampert," The Guru commented, "I remember Andrew having a Swampert as well in our battle. Granted, it was his Charizard that was Mega Evolved, but Swampert can also Mega Evolve as well."
"Really?" Daniel asked, "Just how many Pokémon can Mega Evolve?"
"As of now, a score and fourteen different Pokémon can unlock their hidden potential," The Guru answered, "And more are being discovered as we speak."
"Whoa…." Daniel said, "That's not a lot. No wonder I haven't heard about this until now."
"It is a power given sparingly to only a chosen few," The Guru explained, "In the wrong hands, the power of a Mega Pokémon would become a horrible catastrophe."
"I see," Daniel said, "I understand. I'm honored that you've given me this opportunity to wield such power. I intend to earn it though. Swampert, Mud Shot!" The Water/Ground type unleashed a steady stream of mud that actually caught Mewtwo off guard. Mewtwo was covered in a thick layer of mud.
"Alright!" Daniel yelled, "Hammer Tail Swampert!" Swampert charged, arms glowing white with the power of a Hammer Arm attack while her tail glowed aqua blue, several streams of water covering the tail with a hypnotic movement. Swampert then slammed into Mewtwo, lashing out with her arms before spinning and slamming Mewtwo with the Aqua Tail attack. Mewtwo was sent reeling backwards several steps. Swampert made to follow up her attack with another when, in an explosion of psychic energy, Mewtwo unleashed a shockwave of pure psychic power that send Swampert skidding back in front of Daniel, the attack stopped.
'ENOUGH' roared Mewtwo telepathically and held up his hands. In each hand appeared a glowing green ball of energy. Mewtwo flung the Energy Balls, one after the other at Swampert.
"Protect!" Daniel yelled as soon as he saw the Grass type move appear. Swampert barely managed to create a green shield to protect herself from the Grass type attack. "Now use Hydro Pump!" Swampert unleashed a mighty stream of water at Mewtwo, who leaned out of the way and charged.
"Energy Ball," said the Guru. Another green orb of energy appeared in his hand and Mewtwo disappeared briefly before reappearing in front of Swampert, who cut off her attack and started to bring her arms up to try and protect herself. It was for naught, as Mewtwo launched the Energy Ball at point blank range right at Swampert's face. Daniel couldn't see anything in the resulting explosion until Swampert came flying out of the cloud and landed at his feet, out cold from the 4x super effective strike.
"Whoa it's fast!" was all Daniel could say. Blaziken continued to watch, arms crossed in both nervousness and fascination.
'Bring out your next Pokémon!' Mewtwo said, 'So that I may finish this!'
"You think you're fast," Daniel said, "Let me give you a taste of some real speed! Sceptile, time for battle!" As the Grass type appeared in front of him, Mewtwo raised an eyebrow. "Use Leaf Blade!" The leaves on Sceptile's arms morphed together and extended outward in a pair of glowing green blades. Sceptile then darted forward and slashed at Mewtwo, who leaned out of the way. Sceptile continued to attack, slashing at Mewtwo in a seemingly unpredictable frenzy. The Genetic Pokémon dodged most of the attacks, but a few managed to get through.
"Flamethrower," the Guru said calmly. Mewtwo stepped aside to narrowly avoid another slash from Sceptile and held up his hand, unleashing another stream of fire at Sceptile. The Forest Pokémon went into a slide and just barely avoided getting badly singed, only to uppercut Mewtwo with another Leaf Blade. Daniel heard Mewtwo growl, the first sound he had heard the Genetic Pokémon make non-telepathically.
"Night Slash!" Daniel shouted, trying to maintain the momentum. Sceptile's bright green arm blades turned black as Sceptile charged. Mewtwo recovered quickly and created a long blade of pure psychic energy to intercept Sceptile's attack. The blades locked, both Pokémon trying to overwhelm the other with physical strength. Daniel saw Sceptile lean over and say something to Mewtwo, a cheeky grin on his face.
'Is that so?' Mewtwo asked with a wry smile. Daniel smacked his forehead, groaning. Sceptile had an unfortunate habit of taunting his opponents whenever he got ahead, something Daniel had tried time and time again to break. Sometimes the opponent would get flustered, allowing an easier victory for Sceptile, but sometimes it backfired and the opponent would turn the tide on Sceptile. Mewtwo grunted and shoved Sceptile backwards, using his psychic powers to give a little extra oomph. Sceptile did a backflip in the air, landing gracefully in front of Daniel.
"Sceptile, you do NOT taunt an opponent who's taken out half the team with ease," Daniel groaned, "Now you've done it."
"Sceptile Scep?!" the Forest Pokémon asked, shocked.
Daniel nodded. "Yes, half the team."
"I do believe now is the time where we stop holding back," the Mega Guru announced. He touched the Keystone on the end of his staff, which began emanating several beams of energy. The Mega Stone attached to Mewtwo's tail also began emanating beams of energy that connected with the energy emanating from the Keystone. "Watch as I show you the power you are dealing with. Beyond Evolution! Mega Evolve!" The energy emanating from both the Keystone and the
Mega Stone engulfed Mewtwo, who began changing shape. Mewtwo lost his tail in the transformation and lost a couple of feet in height, but at the same time a long purple appendage grew from the back of his head, a half-ring type structure growing on his head as well. When the energy dissipated, Mewtwo opened his now red eyes and glared at Sceptile.
"Oh my God…." Daniel gasped as Mewtwo unleashed a wave of psychic energy, almost too fast to follow, that slammed into Sceptile and knocked the Grass type off his feet. Sceptile slowly got back to his feet, a green aura appearing around him.
"Hmm, the Overgrow ability," the Mega Guru commented, "It's nice to see Sceptile isn't holding back either. A pity that won't be enough."
"I have faith in my Pokémon!" Daniel shot back, "Sceptile, show him what you got by charging an Energy Ball!" Sceptile took a couple of deep breaths before concentrating, a glowing green ball of pure energy growing in size in between his hands. Mewtwo narrowed his eyes, watching Sceptile gather power. Sceptile shouted a battle cry before bringing his hands forward, launching the powered up Energy Ball at Mewtwo. The Mega Evolved Genetic Pokémon's eyes began glowing blue as he caught the Energy Ball with his Psychic powers. Daniel, Sceptile, and Blaziken all gasped in shock. Mewtwo smirked again, sending the Energy Ball right back at Sceptile. The Grass type barely avoided the redirected attack, diving to the side and climbing up a nearby tree.
'Pathetic,' Mewtwo said and darted forward with speed equal to, if not greater than Daniel's Sceptile. The Forest Pokémon gasped in surprise when Mewtwo grabbed him by the neck and brought him back down to ground level.
"Use Leaf Blade to free yourself!" Daniel yelled. Sceptile stopped struggling and brought his arms up to slash at Mewtwo with glowing green arm blades. He got one slash in before he was blasted back by a point blank Flamethrower. Sceptile was not getting back up after that. Daniel recalled the fallen Grass type and grabbed a brown and silver Pokéball, his second to last Pokémon.
"What will you do now, young Trainer?" the Mega Guru murmured to himself quietly. Mewtwo rubbed his torso gently where Sceptile had gotten that desperate Leaf Blade in. "Can you find the weakness of Mega Mewtwo Y?"
"Lucario, it's time for battle!" Daniel yelled, throwing the Pokéball. As the Aura Pokémon appeared in front of Daniel, there was a squeak from Daniel's bag. Plusle came tumbling out from the backpack, having shifted the weight enough to tip the bag over. The little Electric type looked at Mewtwo and darted over to Daniel, quivering in fear behind his legs.
"A seventh Pokémon?" the Guru asked, raising an eyebrow, "Isn't that illegal to all but a few recognized Trainers?"
Daniel held up his hands defensively. "Plusle isn't mine, he belongs to Caitlynn. He stowed away in my bag because I had to leave her behind." Daniel looked at the ground guiltily. "I couldn't go back because I wouldn't have been able to say no to her again."
"I see," the Guru said with a knowing smile. "Often it is easier to stand up to your enemies than it is to stand up to your friends, especially ones you hold dear to your heart."
"I mean, we're not dating or anything!" Daniel explained quickly, a blush coming to his cheeks, "But we've done everything together since middle school and-"
"You don't need to explain yourself to me," the Guru interrupted, "I was merely curious about the Plusle. Whether or not you can decipher your feelings for Miss Caitlynn is for you to figure out on your own. For now, let us continue our battle."
Daniel nodded. "Lucario, use Aura Sphere!" Lucario brought his paws behind him, closing his eyes as he concentrated. A blue sphere of energy appeared in between his paws. Lucario looked at Mewtwo, eyes glowing blue briefly as he locked onto the Genetic Pokémon. Lucario then brought his paws forward and shot the Aura Sphere at Mewtwo. Mewtwo flew up into the air, but thanks to Lucario's aura abilities, his Aura Sphere was hot on Mewtwo's tail. Mewtwo zoomed around at incredible speeds, twisting and turning, but he couldn't shake the Aura Sphere.
"Your Lucario has been trained well," the Guru commented. Daniel nodded, accepting the compliment as Mewtwo gave up trying to avoid the Aura Sphere and raised his arms defensively. The Aura Sphere connected with a small explosion, but Mewtwo didn't appear too badly affected by the attack.
"Follow it up with Metal Claw!" Daniel shouted. The spikes on the back of Lucario's paws turned silver and extended out a couple of feet into three wicked metal claws on the back of each paw. The Aura Pokémon then charged at the floating Psychic type, ready to strike.
"Aura Sphere," came a simple command from the Guru. Mewtwo smirked as he brought up an arm, a blue ball of energy forming right as Lucario leaped to strike. Mewtwo then fired the attack and hit Lucario right in the gut, sending the Fighting/Steel type flying backwards into yet another tree. The Aura Pokémon struggled to maintain consciousness.
"Hang in there!" Daniel yelled at his Pokémon, "You've got to stay strong!" Lucario collapsed to the ground briefly, taking a few deep breaths to recover. Mewtwo grinned and held up another hand, readying another attack before he sensed the power spike within Lucario.
'What is this?' Mewtwo asked as Lucario looked up, eyes completely blue. Lucario pushed himself back to his feet and roared, a jagged blue aura surrounding him in the process.
Daniel laughed. It was the exhilarated laugh of one backed into a corner and finding a way out. "And that's the fourth time I've seen Hypermode activate in the six years I've owned Lucario."
"Hypermode?" the Guru queried.
"It's what I call Lucario's power surge," Daniel explained, "Whenever Lucario's health gets really low, this happens and Lucario's attacks become much stronger than before. The blue aura reminded me of a game I love to play, Metroid Prime, so I called it Hypermode."
"Interesting," the Guru said, gears turning in his head. "Let's see this power then."
"Gladly," Daniel said, "Let's show him all we've got!" Lucario shouted another battle cry, the aura surrounding him intensifying. "Dark Pulse!" The Aura Pokémon put his paws together in front of him, unleashing a stream of black/purple circles at Mewtwo, whose eyes widened in surprise at the speed and strength of the attack. There was an explosion as Mewtwo hastily used a Thunderbolt to soften the blow from the Dark Pulse.
"Use Flamethrower," the Guru commanded. Mewtwo summoned another stream of fire and sent it right at Lucario.
"Dodge and come in with Metal Claw!" Daniel shouted. Lucario seemed to disappear for a second, dodging the Flamethrower completely before appearing before the Mega Mewtwo. The Psychic type began bobbing and weaving, avoiding Lucario's blows before Lucario spun and lashed out with his feet, sending the Genetic Pokémon backwards. Lucario retracted his claws, in preparation for the next move.
Daniel grinned. "Use Aura Blast!" Lucario put his paws together behind his back like he was getting ready for an Aura Sphere, except the energy forming between his paws was much larger than before.
"Don't hold anything back," the Guru said, "Psychic." Mewtwo nodded and began gathering psychic energy. A gale began to blow around the battlefield as
Mewtwo's eyes began glowing light blue, matching Lucario's eyes as the two of them gathered power. Lucario shouted a battle cry to the heavens and unleashed a huge stream of aura energy at Mewtwo. The Genetic Pokémon countered by sending a stream of psychic energy. The two energy attacks collided in the middle with tremendous force. Daniel could feel Plusle hanging on for dear life from his leg. Rocks were torn up from the ground and consumed, so great was the energy output. The attacks ended abruptly with a huge explosion, knocking Daniel to the ground. Smoke covered everything. He couldn't see a thing.
Coughing, Daniel comforted the frightened Plusle, who was cowering on the ground in fear.
"There there," Daniel said soothingly, placing the Cheering Pokémon onto his shoulder, "It's okay." He coughed a few more times before a breeze cleared the smoke away. As soon as the smoke was gone, Daniel took stock of the situation. Mewtwo was still standing, having generated the smoke-clearing breeze. The
Mega Guru was climbing back to his feet as well, having been knocked down from the explosion. Lucario, surprisingly enough, was standing as well, the blue aura still surrounding his frame.
'Nice try,' Mewtwo said grudgingly, 'but it won't be enough.' The aura surrounding Lucario faded suddenly and the Aura Pokémon collapsed, exhausted. Daniel sighed. Somehow he knew it was going to come down to Blaziken. He glanced at the Mega Ring attached to his right wrist and knew what it was going to take.
"Return Lucario," Daniel said, the red beam of light sucking the fallen Fighting/Steel type back into his custom colored Pokéball. He closed his eyes, taking a couple of deep breaths to steady himself. He could feel the cool breeze blowing through the trees, the signs of fall in the air. Daniel opened his eyes with a renewed vigor. He turned to his first Pokémon and asked "You ready?" Blaziken nodded and leaped in front of Daniel, glancing at the Blazikenite attached to his right upper arm.
"You have fought well," the Guru said, "and with honor. Now it comes down to this. I hope you will continue to give your very best."
"I intend to!" Daniel said, looking at the Mega Ring. The Keystone inserted into the Ring was flashing. Daniel touched the Keystone, feeling the rush of energy surge through him. He held the Mega Ring towards Blaziken, who's Mega Stone was flashing as well. "Now watch as my titan of fire breaks his limits and reveals a whole new level of power! Beyond Evolution! Mega Evolve!" Daniel watched in awe as fire began swirling around Blaziken. His yellow feathers on his legs turned red, the red feathers turning black. The feathery "hairs" on Blaziken's head pointed upward in a wing shape. As abruptly as it started, the firestorm ended. Blaziken shouted a war cry as his wrist flames extended out several feet, waving in the breeze.
"Incredible!" Daniel said quietly. He could sense the raw power emanating from Blaziken. "Use Flamethrower!" Blaziken unleashed a mighty stream of fire, bigger than even what Mewtwo created. Daniel watched with satisfaction as Mewtwo's eyes grew wide as he brought his arms up defensively. Flames flew everywhere as the attack connected. Peering in, Daniel could see that Mewtwo had definitely felt that attack.
"Thunderbolt," the Guru commanded. Mewtwo held up a hand and launched a huge stream of electricity.
"Dodge it!" Daniel yelled. Blaziken barely appeared to move as he avoided the Electric type attack. "What speed!"
The Guru nodded. "Mega Blaziken's special ability is the Speed Boost ability, so the longer this battles goes, the faster Blaziken will be."
'Which is why we need to finish this now!' Mewtwo shouted while unleashing another Thunderbolt that Blaziken dodged with ease.
poms" made of sparks, cheering on Blaziken. The Blaze Pokémon's fists turned a brilliant white while blue flames erupted from his feet as Blaziken prepared to use both Sky Uppercut and Blaze Kick simultaneously. The Fire/Fighting type charged, ducking under another Thunderbolt from Mewtwo and unleashing a devastating series of attacks against the Psychic type. It was as quick as any Close Combat move: Uppercut! Spinning Kick! Right hook! Snap kick to the chin! Mewtwo was reeling, stumbling backwards from the barrage of attacks.
"Use Psychic!" the Guru commanded. Mewtwo's eyes flashed blue as he held up his hands, one to catch himself as he stumbled and the other to unleash a wave of psychic energy that stopped Blaziken's relentless attack and sent the Mega Evolved Pokémon skidding back in front of Daniel.
Daniel could sense the end was finally near. "Flare Blitz!" Blue flames began to crackle around Blaziken before swirling into an inferno that engulfed Blaziken. The Fire/Fighting type was visible within the flames as he charged right through Mewtwo's follow up Psychic attack, continuing through until he slammed into Mewtwo with a fiery explosion! Once the flames cleared, Mewtwo was back in his normal force, knock out by the force of the blow.
The Mega Guru smiled. "Well done, young one."
"We did it!" Daniel celebrated, high fiving his Blaziken. A brief burst of energy surrounded Blaziken as he returned to his normal form as well, the battle over. Plusle danced with joy, throwing celebratory sparks into the air. After allowing himself that brief moment of celebration, Daniel turned his attention to Mewtwo, who was groaning while trying to regain his senses.
"It's okay, my friend," the Guru soothed, "You did your best."
"Is there anything I can do to help?" Daniel offered.
The Guru nodded. "Help him over to the cave; I'll bring out one of my remedies made specially for him." With surprising agility for one who seemed so old, the Guru darted off into his cave while Daniel held Mewtwo's arm over his shoulder and supported the groggy Psychic type over to the cave.
'Master?' Mewtwo murmured, still knocked for a loop.
"He's getting you your medicine," Daniel said soothingly, "Just hang in there." Right as Daniel reached the cave, the Guru exited his cave, carry a bowl of some yellow-greenish liquid.
"Made from the local Sitrus berries and a couple of secret ingredients," the Guru explained at Daniel's questioning look. "This'll have him right as rain in no time." Sure enough, after a few sips, Mewtwo was able to stand up and drink at his own pace.
Once Mewtwo had finished, Daniel held out his hand. "That was a fantastic battle Mewtwo; I hope you had as much fun as I did."
Mewtwo stared at his hand, perhaps trying to sniff out some form of trickery. After a moment's pause, the Genetic Pokémon smiled, taking Daniel's hand and shaking it. 'I did have fun. Thank you.'
"You're welcome," Daniel said, grinning as well.
The Guru smiled. "Congratulations, young Trainer, you have passed the test. The Mega Ring and Mega Stone are yours to keep."
"Thank you sir," Daniel said, bowing his head respectfully, "I'm honored that you chose me for such a responsibility."
That got a chuckle out of the Guru. "I cannot claim that I chose you to become a new Mega Ring wielder. No, it's more like the Ring chooses the Trainer. That Ring chose you, Daniel, because it knew that you are a kind Trainer, worthy of such power."
'When I first saw you battling against that man, Marco,' Mewtwo said, 'I had my doubts, especially when you lost that battle. However, as we battled today, I sensed that you had that fire within you that every great Trainer has. I was wrong with my first judgment about you: you are definitely worthy of bearing that Mega Ring. Use it responsibly.' With that, Mewtwo floated over to a mat beside the Guru's cave and began meditating to recover from the long battle.
"Yes, use it responsibly," the Guru repeated, "use it wisely, and most importantly, maintain your bond with your Pokémon. It will be key in the events I have seen coming soon."
"Events, what events?" Daniel asked, confused.
The Guru chuckled. "The future is always in motion, but one thing is certain; Hawaii will feel the wrath of Mother Nature soon enough."
"Hawaii?" Daniel repeated.
"Don't you have a young lass waiting for you back home?" the Guru asked, a twinkle in his eye.
"Oh boy," Daniel said, "Caitlynn! Thanks again Guru, I promise I'll be good with this Mega Ring." The young man began running down the mountain, Blaziken right beside him, beginning the journey home.
"I know you will," the Mega Guru said quietly, "Take care young one."
(Indian Head, Maryland)
Caitlynn sighed as she nibbled at her salad. She had been waiting all day at Daniel's house and while she had gotten some training in for her next Contest, her heart hadn't been in it. Daniel's mother had been kind enough to make her dinner, but she simply wasn't hungry. Her Ninetales came up and nuzzled her arm as Caitlynn chased a cherry tomato around with her fork.
"What is it girl?" Caitlynn asked, looking at the Fire type sadly. Ninetales simply rested her head in Caitlynn's lap. Caitlynn couldn't help but smile as she stroked the Fox Pokémon's smooth fur. Her Vaporeon also poked his head up on the other side of Caitlynn; looking for attention but also trying to cheer his Trainer up.
"It's okay guys," Caitlynn said, "I'm still upset that I'm not with Daniel at a super important battle in his career. Though I suppose I'll have to get over it. I could see that it hurt him to use his Gallade against me like that, though I was super angry at the time." She sighed, not noticing her Swellow perk up and take off, spotting something in the evening sky. "I wonder if he knows that the Champ totally wiped the floor with Marco today." A loud roar in the sky startled her, sending the salad bowl flying. "What the?" She darted off the porch and looked up to see a Salamence flying above the house, roaring triumphantly as her Swellow wheeled about, enjoying the evening thermals. Slowly but surely, the Dragon type circled lower and lower until Caitlynn could see her best friend on the back of the dragon, grinning happily the whole while.
"Hello Southern Fried Maryland!" Daniel called jokingly as Salamence landed, "It's been awhile!"
So many emotions rose up within Caitlynn at once. Anger, relief, and joy all conflicted within as she walked up to him. "You're such an idiot."
"It's good to see you too," Daniel answered, holding up his right arm. "Look what I got."
Caitlynn smirked. "You went and got some fancy jewelry and you didn't get me any?"
Daniel threw up his arms in mock indignation. "Oh no! I spend most of the day flying on Salamence, battle a Mega Evolved legendary Pokémon, earn a rare item, see my own Pokémon Mega Evolve, and I forgot to get you some fancy trinket." He reached into his pack and pulled out a little Electric type. "By the way, here's your Plusle back."
"Somehow I knew he was with you," Caitlynn said, hugging Daniel tight. "Now, tell me everything, since you decided to leave me behind!"
"Let me get settled first!" Daniel said, laughing, "And I promise I will never leave you behind like that again. You're definitely coming with me when I train with Andrew to help Blaziken control this Mega Evolution. Let's go inside and get some grub first, I'll tell you over dinner."
"I'd like that," Caitlynn said and together, the two friends went inside, happily sharing stories about what went on during this exciting day and more importantly, were simply happy to be back together again.