Washington DC, the capital of the United States of America. A city that is a hub of historical significance, attracting visitors from all around the world. However, it is not just the landmarks and monuments that bring people in, but also the vibrant and diverse culture that makes it a destination. From museums and galleries to restaurants and nightlife, there is something for everyone in this iconic city.
On this day, the RV made this its next stop for the Summer Road Trip. Jon pressed his face against the window of the Rustbucket, gazing at the national monuments in the city, including the White House and Capitol Building.
"So cool. I can't believe we're in DC!"
Max chuckled, driving the RV. "We'll see all the sights. Trust me, you're gonna love it." He assured the young man. His grandfatherly demeanor shone through, a warm and welcoming presence that made Jon feel at ease and excited for the adventure that lay ahead. It was clear that Max had a deep love and appreciation for the city, and was eager to share its wonders with the newest member of their group. "Besides, maybe you and Ben could have a good learning experience."
"Ugh, Grandpa! Seriously, we're in DC and you still wanna make us do summer school stuff?" Ben groaned in annoyance at the prospect of spending their vacation in a classroom. "Why can't we just enjoy ourselves?"
"Speak yourself. I'm looking to get into college and university one day." Gwen proudly smiled while crossing her arms. She was sitting on a couch inside the RV, relaxing. "I could use some more knowledge to prepare myself."
"You're the nerd, not us." Ben stuck his tongue out at his cousin. "Can't we go shopping? Just last night, I ended stopping a bunch of robbers. Not too shabby for my second time being hero for a day, huh?" He proudly said. A day after he found the Omnitrix and stopped Vilgax's machines, he ended up doing another heroic act right after.
"Well, I suppose I could shop for a few things..." Max admitted, thinking on the idea. He made a quick detour, heading towards the city's local shopping center. He had a list of items to pick up that he neded for this 3 month road trip, and he figured it wouldn't be a bad idea to take the kids along. Maybe they would find something that would spark their interest and make their trip a little more enjoyable. Besides, it would give him a chance to catch up on a few errands and maybe even grab a bite to eat.
"Really?! Yes!" Ben cheered, fist-pumping. "Shopping spree, here we come!"
Elsewhere in this city, in a building that didn't stick out whatsoever, a man named Roger knocks at a door, with a sign labelled "Dr. Animo" hanging outside. "Yo! Animo! I know you're in there. Open up!"
After a brief moment, Roger came in, gazing at the ominous and unsettling sight before him. He walked past all sorts of equipment, cages, and glass cases holding various animals and plants. He could smell the pungent scent of chemicals and formaldehyde, and he could hear the soft chattering of rodents and the occasional squawk of a bird.
"Phew! Smells like a zoo in here!" He said, grimacing. He looked around the lab, taking in the chaos and disorder of the place. Papers were scattered everywhere, and beakers and test tubes were haphazardly stacked on every surface.
Without him knowing, A figure silently followed behinds him, masked by the shadows. As Roger turns around, he is extremely startled by the Doctor.
Doctor Animo.
"HOW did you get in?!" Animo angrily said
"Pass key. I am still your landlord, remember? Maybe not, since your rent is six months pass due..." Roger adjusted his tie.
"All my funds go into my research. Now GET OUT! You're disturbing me!" He demanded, pointing at the exit.
Roger scoffed, not at all intimidated by the scientist's anger. "Hmm. Looks like you were "disturbed" long before I got here, pal! Listen, Doc, you and your furry friends are out on the street, unless you pony up the green."
"Pony up.." Animo said as he picked up a frog from one of the cases. "Interesting choice of phrases... You must be an animal lover. Listen well, Roger. Do you know the kind of world, the age we're living in? We're living in a world were men can fly with the clouds between their knees. Were others can travel the speed of light. Where heroes and villains battle across the stars, and across cities. And yet, nobody appreciates the true potential of the Earth's most successful survivors. The lowly, and often, very underestimated ANIMALS."
"Well, I'm not much of an animal lover or even a Superhero fanatic that much..." Roger looked rather uncomfortable hearing him talk.
"No?" Animo slowly turned his head. "Then I'll choose your favorite for you." Animo set the frog down before putting on an odd-looking helmet with two horn-like protrusions.
Roger pause before laughing mockingly at the helmet. "What's that? You a member of the "moose lodge" or something?"
"This is my Transmodulator; phase number one. It creates and accelerates mutations at the genetic level. Observe:
Animo twisted a dial on his chest, activating the Transmodulator. Suddenly, beams shot out from its horns and to the frog on the ground, severely mutating it into a gigantic version of itself. Roger looks up and screamed at this sudden mutation, falling onto his back. The massive frog opened his mouth and all that was heard from Roger were muffled screams afterwards.
"I'm sorry! I can't hear you. Sounds like you have a frog in your throat! Ah-ha-ha-ha-ha! Or is that - the other way around?!" Animo continued to laugh maniacally as the frog spits out Roger. He fell to the floor, groaned, and passed out. Then, Animo checked a slip of newspaper on the floor.
"So close to having what is rightfully mine... All I need is a FEW LOUSY COMPONENTS to finish my work!" As he spoke, a TV interrupted him.
"-So whatever your need, from hair spray to state-of-the-art electronics, you'll find them under one roof at the grand opening of the district's newest MegaMart!"
Right then and there, he had hit the jackpot. Just what he needed.
Speaking of MegaMart, the Tennysons and Jon would be driving in their parking lot, finding a spot to park in. There were a bunch of families, children, couples and single people walking around, ready to shop. And in this massive shopping center, they had practically everything, especially all things Superhero. Even on the outside, there was a statue of the Superhero known as the Flash. The Fastest Man Alive.
"Whoa, would you look at this place!" Ben gawked in amazement. His eyes wide as saucers, a smile of wonder on his face. He could hardly contain his excitement as his gaze took in the sight. The building was immense, its size dwarfing any other store in the area. Its windows were gleaming, its doors open and inviting, beckoning customers to enter and explore the vast selection of goods within. He was itching to get inside and start exploring, to discover all the treasures hidden within the store's walls.
And it, what really caught his attention, were all the Superhero-related items for sale. Posters, action figures, shirts, and so on. This was his favorite thing to buy. "Oh man, they have everything! All things Superman too!" His eyes were focused on all things Superman. He was his favorite hero after all. "Uh, it's totally not weird that I look up to your dad, is it?" He asked Jon.
"Eh, it's not a big deal. I don't mind. In fact, I think it's pretty cool." Jon nodded, smiling at the posters of his own father. "It's a little funny though, seeing him in such a way."
"You'll probably blow all your summer money on Superman stuff." Gwen said, believing Ben was about to be left with nothing rather soon, only focusing on his idol.
"Pfft. And you won't? Aren't you a big fan of Wonder Woman?" Ben sneered.
"I am, but unlike you, doofus, I know how to take care of my money and save it." She argued. The two were about to argue again, with Jon stuck in the middle of their feud.
"Uh, do you guys even have that much money for the rest of the summer?" Jon asked.
"Believe me, I do. Better than having Grandpa's cooking. Come on, Jon. We'll shop on another aisle." Gwen suddenly grabbed Jon's hand, causing him to grimace and be stunned on the spot. He would blushed a bit at this, feeling her smooth skin touch his own. 'Oh no. Not now...' Jon thought to himself. But she pulled him away from Ben, forcing him to follow her. She was going to have her own fun, and she was determined to make sure that her cousin didn't spoil it for her. Or at least, that was her plan. Unknowingly to her, her small gesture would leave Jon confused and a bit flushed.
As the two cousins were arguing and the half-kryptonian was left in a state of mild confusion, Max was doing his grocery shopping, getting the food that he and the kids would be eating on their trip. He was looking at the labels of the various products on display, making sure that the ingredients were fresh and of good quality. As he picked up a can of beans, he noticed the price tag. With a frown, he put it back, searching for a more budget-friendly option. It wasn't easy trying to feed three growing kids, and Max was trying his best to make the most out of his limited resources. "Only canned octopus? Huh. I thought this store prided itself on wide selection." He wondered to himself.
Meanwhile, Gwen went to the clothing-section of the store. She was looking to replace her wardrobe, and she knew that this was the perfect opportunity to do so. As she browsed through the racks, she came across a Wonder Woman-themed t-shirt and a Flash t-shirt that were on clearance but she also focused on regular clothes.
Without hesitation, she picked them up, knowing that they would be perfect for the long days ahead. Jon simply stood there as Gwen cycled through the clothes, being the fashion police and scrutinizing each article of clothing. 'I'm not a fashion model, am I?' Jon wondered, watching Gwen cycle through the clothes, scrutinizing each article of clothing.
"What do you think, Jon?" She showed some dresses and shirts. She was curious to see his reaction, hoping that he would be impressed with her style and taste. It wasn't often that Gwen had the opportunity to showcase her fashion sense, and she was eager to prove to Jon that she had an eye for design.
"Uh..." He was a bit confused. "They're nice." He didn't really know what to say. He didn't have much fashion sense. At home, his mother would usually pick out his clothes. When she wasn't there, he would just throw on the first thing that was in his drawer. He didn't exactly have a keen eye for what would look good on him, and the same could be said about others. "I mean, I guess they'd look good on you. J-Just saying!"
"You guess?" She raised an eyebrow, unimpressed. "Well, I guess I could use your help, Jon." Her voice trailed off, a hint of disappointment in her tone. She let out a sigh, realizing that maybe she'd have to put a little extra effort into helping him develop his fashion sense. After all, a guy can't go through life wearing the same boring outfits day after day. Maybe, just maybe, she could teach him a thing or two about style. 'Maybe he's just shy. Well, he usually is.' Gwen thought to herself, smiling. "Come on, Jon. Let's keep going."
She dragged him along, much to Jon's surprise and reluctance. As they continued to explore the clothing section, Gwen would point out various items that she thought would look good on Jon, and to his surprise, he actually started to enjoy it. He never really paid much attention to his wardrobe before, and Gwen's expertise was a welcome change of pace. Soon, the two of them were laughing and having a great time together, and it felt like they had known each other forever.
As for Ben, he was in the toy aisles of the store. He looked at all of the superhero toys and figurines that were on display, from Superman and Batman to the The Green Lantern and so on. He was particularly drawn to the action figures, and his fingers tingled with excitement as he picked them up and examined them closely.
"I saved those people. I should totally get a reward..." Ben grinned at the options, believing he should get something in return. "I've got to get my hands on at least one." He was looking around, trying to figure out which one to buy.
However, before he could make his choice, the entire shops began to rumble. TV sets fell from their displays, people screamed as other items were starting to drop. Gwen halted her shopping as Jon looked around, raising an eyebrow. And all of a sudden, the walls burst, revealing Dr. Animo mounted on his giant frog.
"Whoa!" Ben gasped at the sight. Animo was here for one thing and one thing only. The electronics. Animo got down from the croaking frog and began to start pocket the electronics, not even the least bit worried about the ruckus he suddenly caused.
"A quick purchase before any of those Heroes come by here..." Animo said, knowing that a Superhero could show up, so he had to make it quick.
"Hey, what do you think you're doing?" Ben questioned, walking over to him.
The Giant frog uses its tongue to knock stacked boxes on top of Ben. Ben gasped as the boxes nearly hit him, causing the Omnitrix wielder to fall back. "Don't be a hero, kid. Just run along and play." Animo said before getting back on his frog, ready to depart.
But then, two security guards arrived on the scene, holding out their guns. "Freeze!"
"Get down off that giant...frog and put your hands up!" The second security guard said. But all Animo did was have his frog leap through the air, ignoring the guards entirely.
"Uh, we got a grab-and-dash in Electronics. Male, five-foot-six, riding on a giant frog - or a toad. Trust me, you can't miss him!" The security guard said on his walkie-talkie. Ben would then silently walk back, making sure the security guards didn't see him. And once he was out of view, finding a place to hide, he propped up the Omnitrix ready to transform.
Cycling through his options. he needed someone quick to catch up. And indeed, he had that option. A blue alien with both humanoid and reptile features would emerge from the green light. The alien was known as XLR8.
Once he was XLR8, Ben zoomed past the security guards, becoming a blur to them as he made their hats fall off. He was now in pursuit of Animo who was already using his Transmodulator even inside of this store. Specifically at the pet section.
He set his sights on a hamster and a cockatiel, zapping them both. The beam mutated the hamster and a cockatiel, both of whom explode out of their cages, screeching. They were both mutated to be a hybrid of the two species. Ben would witness the transformation, stopping in his tracks. "What the-?"
"Ha ha ha! Run, little lab rat! Fly, my feathered fiend! Ariiiiise to your full potential, my pets!" Animo ordered his pets. Both of the animals would obey their creator, the Cockatiel and the Hamster ran ready to cause chaos. Ben would stop in front of these animals instead of pursuing Animo any further. He was going to protect the shoppers and anyone else that was caught in the crossfire.
"Hey! Over here!" He grabbed the attention of these animals. And immediately, they would attack him, the cockatiel flew forward while the hamster jumped towards in. He would zip to the side, avoiding their lunges, causing them to crash into other shelves and knock them down.
XLR8 taunted them, only for the hamster to get up surprisingly quickly, growling. It rushed at him, causing Ben to duck, and jump onto a shelf, avoiding the hamster's lunge. The hamster crashed into a bunch of merchandise, knocking them down and causing a mess. "Oh no you don't! I'm not letting you mess up my favorite aisle!" Ben shouted.
XLR8 jumped onto the hamster, moving at high speeds and knocking him into a display of toy action figures. The hamster struggled to escape, but the various items, especially the large ones, kept him pinned, refusing to let him go. The cockatiel would then divebomb him, trying to peck him while he wasn't looking. But as soon as Ben turned his head, someone saved him from this divebomb.
Swooping in with a powerful punch was Jon, striking the cockatiel from the side. The impact sent the mutant animal flying into a display of pet food, breaking through the glass and causing a huge mess.
"Jon?!" XLR8 shouted. Jon made a quick change, swapping out his hoodie for one that had the symbol of Superman on it. He even had a red cape, looking like a Mini-Superman.
He landed after sending the bird flying, causing it to spiral and slide across the floor. "Sorry I'm late, Ben." He apologized.
"You're just in time, dude! What's with the new look?" XLR8 questioned.
"Oh this? My mom made it for me and I figured that I could still be a hero even during this summer trip. What's even going on here? What's up with the animals?" He asked, looking over at the hamster that was pinned by the shelves and items.
"Ugh! My shopping's ruined because of this!" Gwen groaned, complaining about the current situation. The mall put its usual actions on halt because of this sudden action. Ben and the others watched as the cockatiel would take fligh, deciding to leave the area as it busted through the ceiling.
"Uh-huh! That's right! Not even giant hamsters can mess with Ben Tennyson!" Ben boasted as his transformation would come to an end, his XLR8 form dropping. "Thanks for the assist, Jon."
"Young fool! You cannot stop me! I will turn Washington D.C. into "Washington B.C."! Animo jumped from his frog to the mutated parrot, who flew off with him through a sky light, the frog following after.
"Oh...Did you two do this?" The store owner of this place walked up to the two boys. "Oh, thank you! You two saved the store! If there's anything I can do to repay you...anything you want!"
Upon hearing that, Ben's eyes would shift towards an incredibly rare and pricey Superman merchandise. "Anything? Well, now that you mention it..."
"You did well, you two. Now, let's get going." Max suddenly grabbed Ben's arm, walking off with him.
"Ah! Grandpa! But I was about to get something good!" Ben cried out.
"No time. No time for that now, Ben. We have a giant parrot to follow." But Max wanted to focus on what was important now.
"Can we even keep up with that thing?" Gwen questioned before looking at Jon.
"Well, I think I can. I'll fly after it and get us close to it." Jon pointed at himself, knowing he could keep up thanks to his flight.
"Hm. Guess I shouldn't have asked. Alright then. If you're going to catch up with him, then try and make me catch up as well, Jon." Gwen requested, making Jon flinch and be flustered from that. Obviously, from what Gwen was suggesting, she wanted Jon to carry her in his arms, something that made the half-kryptonian boy blush a bit.
"Uh...sure." He nodded his head, unable to say no. And so, he would pick her up, causing Gwen to yelp, not expecting him to lift her up. Now, he was in the sky, carrying her like a princess. "Sorry if this is awkward."
"No! No, it's not." Gwen shook her head, trying to hide her own blush.
And so, the two were in the air, following the Mutant parrot. While this was happening, Ben was a bit miffed that he couldn't get what he wanted. "Man! That guy could've given me that exclusive limited edition Superman collectible! Oh...and I gotta wait for it to recharge..." He obviously wanted to fly as well, having an alien that could do just that for him.
For now, he'd have to suffice with the Rustbucket. "Ah, just like the good old days - before I retired." Max said while leaving the mall.
"What kind of plumber were you, Grandpa?" Ben questioned while Max nervously laughed.
"Er- yuh- a darn good one! Uh, Ben, what's the matter?" He noticed him pouting.
"I save an entire Megamart from being a giant hamster's chew toy, and what do I get? Nothing. It's not fair..." Ben looked away, feeling rather sour.
"Being a hero isn't about others knowing you did something good, it's about you knowing you did something good. Being a hero is its own reward." Max imparted that knowledge onto him, letting Ben think for a while.
Up in the sky, as Jon was carrying Gwen, he spotted the parrot in the distance, making sure to control his movements as to not put Gwen in jeapordy. Especially not at this height. At the same time, Gwen had her phone out, looking Animo up. "Ah! Here it is! ive years ago, Dr. Animo was a promising researcher in veterinary science. But it turned out he was doing all these twisted genetic experiments where he was mutating animals, and when he didn't win some big prize called "The Verities Award", he flipped out. Hm. Sounds like Ben."
"So that's what it is." Jon said.
"Can you speed up a bit, Jon. He might get away."
"B-But if I do, I could hurt you and you could slip from my hold, Gwen." Jon said, obviously worried.
"Hm. Good point. But we might lose him at this rate."
"We won't lose him. I'll do my best!" Jon narrowed his eyes as he started accelerating a bit more. This sudden increase of speed made Gwen scream, wrapping her arms around Jon, not wanting to fall. Jon was blushing intensely, having Gwen in his hold, and she was clinging to him tightly.
'She's holding onto me!' Jon thought to himself. He tried to shake his thoughts, but Gwen was clinging onto him very tight.
"You okay?!" Gwen looked up at him, asking him if he was alright.
"Y-Yeah. I'll be fine." Jon nodded. "We just need to follow this guy."
"Hm. Good point. But we might lose him at this rate."
"We won't lose him. I'll do my best!" Jon narrowed his eyes as he started accelerating a bit more. This sudden increase of speed made Gwen scream, wrapping her arms around Jon, not wanting to fall. Jon was blushing intensely, having Gwen in his hold, and she was clinging to him tightly.
'She's holding onto me!' Jon thought to himself. He tried to shake his thoughts, but Gwen was clinging onto him very tight.
"Hm. Annoying brats." Animo looked back, seeing that the duo were chasing him down. But that wouldn't stop him from reaching his destination. And in this case, the next stop was the National History Museum. The parrot would descend, having the building within its sights. Animo would grin, ready to continue his mission.
"There he is! After him, Jon!" Gwen said.
"R-Right! I'll land." Jon said, starting to descend and landing, putting Gwen down. They both would run towards the building, ready to confront him.
While walking inside, Jon found a box labeled "M Mart Electronics". In front of them, next to a mammoth exhibit and tyrannosarus exhibit nearby, was Dr. Animo, fiddling with his machine. He stopped, looking back at the boy and girl. "You - are very persistent. I HATE persistent." Animo said with irritation in his voice.
"You can knock it off, Animo!" Jon glared, trying to act intimidating. "Whatever you're planning, it's not going to work. Not while we're here."
"Oh, but it's only just begun...! See, I only needed a few components to push my work into phase two: the reanimation of dormant cells."
"Dormant cells?" Gwen repeated while standing behind Jon. "You don't mean you're going to-"
"Bring extinct species back to life? Yes. Breathing life back into that which has been long since lifeless. Observe!" Animo turnED the dial twice this time. His transmodulator shot beams into the mammoth and the t-rex, the beams diverging and striking the two exhibits.
And with that, the Mammoth and T-Rex had been brought to life. Jon and Gwen watched in shock as these two relics of the past and absolute powerhouses in their own right were living once more, letting out their respective cries.
"No way..." Jon looked up in awe and shock. He couldn't believe what he was seeing. Ben and Max managed to catch up thanks to the Rustbucket and immediately, they too saw the shocking sight before them.
"What in tarnation...?" Max questioned.
"That's a mammoth and a T-Rex!" Ben gasped. "Awesome!"
"Not awesome right now!" Gwen barked at Ben.
"Behold the genius that is Dr. Animo!" He boasted as he ran away, leaving the T-Rex and Mammoth to handle things from here. The two revived creatures glared at the group, ready to attack.
Jon clenched his hands while Ben quickly propped up his Omnitrix, the wto staring at these creatures. While amazed and both shocked, they weren't afraid. Instead, they were very much ready to take action. They stood next to each other with serious faces, ready to work together once more.
Ben slammed the Omnitrix once more, taking on the form of yet another alien. This time, it was an alien that was fit for the job. One of certified power as Ben transformed into an enormous red being with four muscular arms. Four Arms was the name. Jon, Gwen and Max gasp at his sheer size, obviously seeing this alien for the first time.
"Oh, this is more like it!" Ben liked what he was seeing from this alien, already feeling the power. "Jon and I will take care of the relics here. You guys should get Animo." He suggested.
"On it!" Gwen ran after him, followed by Max.
Jon took flight, while Four Arms charged at the two monsters. Jon would start with the T-Rex, flying towards the reptile, trying to find an opening. But the T-Rex would whip him aside, using its tail as a club. He would collide with a statue, breaking it in the process.
As he crashed into the statue, the T-Rex was about to eat him. However, Four Arms would jump forward, grabbing its mouth and prying it open. With a shout, he kept the T-Rex's mouth open and used his other three arms to punch the dinosaur's throat. It choked, stumbling backward and shaking its head.
Four Arms would then turn his attention to the mammoth, who charged at him. The half-kryptonian boy, now recovered, would help Four Arms by flying into the air and ramming into the side of the mammoth, forcing it to crash against the wall. Four Arms would then use his strength and size to pick up the mammoth, and toss it over his shoulder, sending it crashing to the ground.
With the two of them teaming up, they would go after the two animals, trying their best to keep them down. Jon and Ben were working together, not allowing either the mammoth or T-Rex any openings, forcing the two creatures back.
But then, the mammoth charged at Four Arms as he got up. Four Arms grabbed a hold of its trunk and started spinning around. He spun so fast that the mammoth's legs no longer reached the ground. Eventually, he lets go, letting it fly into a wall.
Jon would fly to the side, bashing his shoulder against the T-Rex, and sending it flying across the room, smashing into the wall. The half-kryptonian would then turn around, and throw a powerful haymaker at the mammoth, knocking it backward and causing it to fall on its side.
The two relics of their time were dazed and disoriented from the attacks, struggling to get up. But as the two were getting up, Jon and Ben were ready to deal the finishing blow. Together, they would run forward and deliver a devastating uppercut, lifting the two creatures off their feet, and sending them flying high into the air, crashing through the ceiling, and landing on the roof.
There would have to be a ton of cleanup after this once morning comes. And Jon and Ben would land back on the ground, their job done.
"Nice moves, Jon." Ben complimented.
"Thanks. You weren't so bad yourself." Jon grinned, giving a thumbs up. "That red alien of yours is awesome!"
"Isn't it? I think Four Arms is the best name for it!" Ben exclaimed while laughing, flexing his four muscles. But quickly, Jon would fly off, rushing to try and assist Gwen and Max.
As for Gwen and Max, when searching for Animo in the museum, they were surprised by the cockatiel from before, crashing through the walls to make an appearance, Gwen screeched in fear, falling backwards along with Max.
When Jon arrived, he saw that the cockatiel swooped down to suddenly grab Gwen, soon flying off, the screams of Gwen continuing. "GWEN!" Jon yelled, flying after the cockatiel. He couldn't believe this had happened, but he had no choice but to go after her.
"Jon, wait!" Max got up, but he was too late to speak to Jon. He was already in hot pursuit.
Meanwhile, Gwen was hanging on the back of the mutant bird, the parrot was still flying. Her opinion on all of this was all shown by expression and her voice that mimicked what her mother said to her. "Spend a summer with your grandpa, honey. It'll be an adventure." She imitated her mother's voice, having a sarcastic tone.
"Gwen!" Jon's voice echoed in the distance, making her look back. She spotted him flying towards them, looking very worried.
"Jon!" Gwen's voice cracked, a mixture of both surprise and relief. "Help!" She shouted.
"Just hang on, Gwen!" Jon called out. He had to be careful, however, not wanting to cause her harm. And so, he was going to approach the cockatiel with a bit of caution. "Drop her!" He yelled, clenching his hand and getting ready to fight the mutant animal.
The parrot would flap its wings, sending a gust of wind towards the young half-kryptonian. The winds would hit him hard, causing him to lose control and start plummeting. But, he regained control, using his powers to slow himself down. 'He's fast!' Jon thought.
"Come on! Let me go!" Gwen cried out, trying to wiggle free.
The Cockatiel would dive, and then suddenly bank sharply to the left, trying to shake Jon off his trail. But the half-kryptonian refused to falter. He stayed close, keeping an eye on Gwen. 'I've got to time this right. I'm not letting Gwen get hurt or worse...' He thought.
"I'll make him pay for this.." Jon muttered under his breath.
Suddenly, the parrot would pull up and hover in mid-air, the sudden change of direction almost causing Gwen to fall off. "AHH!" She screamed, holding onto the creature.
Jon's eyes widened. He had to move fast. If she fell, it would be too late. He couldn't let that happen. "Hang on, Gwen!" He shouted.
Gwen clung onto the cockatiel for dear life, not wanting to let go. She didn't want to fall, but she knew that she wouldn't be able to hold on forever.
"Let her go!" Jon's voice thundered, making the cockatiel's feathers bristle. The parrot turned its head to face him, glaring. But Jon wasn't going to give up. He flew forward, fist drawn back, ready to strike.
But before he could land a blow, the cockatiel opened its beak, shooting a beam of energy at him. Jon yelped as he narrowly dodged the blast, the beam barely grazing his shoulder. The pain was enough to make him wince.
Gwen gasped, watching the scene unfold. She had never seen him get hurt before, and it worried her. "Jon! Are you okay?"
Jon ignored the pain. He couldn't stop, not when Gwen was in danger. He had to keep going, even if it meant putting himself at risk.
"I'll be fine! I'm just getting started!" Jon growled. He flew at the cockatiel once again, this time, he was ready. As he drew closer, he twisted his body, and threw a punch, hitting the creature right in the side.
The cockatiel squawked, the impact of the blow knocking the wind out of him. He released Gwen, who screamed as she fell. Jon reached out and grabbed her, holding her tightly.
"I gotcha." Jon said softly.
"T-Thanks, Jon." Gwen nodded her head, blushing a bit.
The half-kryptonian would then carry Gwen bridal style, the two staring at each other, their faces only a few inches apart. "It's my job." He grinned.
But their moment was ruined by the sound of flapping wings. They looked up to see the cockatiel, enraged and preparing for another attack.
"Watch out!" Gwen cried. Jon grimaced, just barely moving his body back to prevent him and Gwen from being struck. The parrot continued to dive and swerve, trying to hit him with its talons.
Jon kept his guard up, using his own strength and speed to avoid the attacks. He couldn't afford to be careless, not with Gwen in his arms. "Don't you have any Heat Vision like your dad?!"
"Yeah but...I can't control it! If I use it, I could end up hurting you or someone below! And I don't want that."
"Jon! Look out!" Gwen shouted, pointing behind him. Jon turned his head and gasped, the cockatiel was coming at them again, its talons ready to grab him.
The half-kryptonian moved his arm, his super-speed helping him to catch the parrot by the talon, stopping it dead in its tracks. The bird squawked, stunned.
"But I can still do something!" Jon flew forward, the cockatiel trying to fly off. He tightened his grip on the talon, refusing to let go. The bird struggled, flapping its wings furiously. But it was no use. Jon was too strong.
"Sorry, pal. Time for you to hit the dust." Jon said as he raised his free hand, and punched the cockatiel right in the face. The bird groaned, its body going limp.
With that, the parrot would start descending, dropping onto the streets and becoming unconscious as it crashed into the ground. Jon flew down, putting Gwen down.
"Phew! That was a close one." Jon sighed. "Are you alright, Gwen?"
"I need to catch my breath a bit..." Gwen panted, her heart racing from all of that. "Animo...shouldn't have gotten far. Go. Stop him, Jon. I'll be fine." She looked up at him, nodding.
"I will. Just hang back for now, Gwen. I'll stop him." Jon promised. He took flight once more, now having just Animo to deal with before he does something crucial.
Currently, Animo was heading somewhere to rectify something he believed he should've achieved. His award. Within his sights, he locked onto a building in the distance known as Kelly Industries. There, the award he believed he deserves was sitting there. The Verities Award. And so, the mutant scientist was flying towards this building, riding on a bike he stole.
"Soon, I shall have the respect and recognition I deserve. They will rue the day they denied my genius."
"Hey, Animo!"
"Hm?!"
Looking behind him, he saw Jon floating in the air, the young boy looking very determined. Animo's eyes widen, not expecting him to have caught up so quickly.
"Persistent boy! Now that I take a look at you, you are very obviously the son of Superman. To think someone like him has a child."
"Yeah! So you'd better surrender now! I don't wanna hurt you!" Jon exclaimed. He saw that Animo was largely defenceless, being a regular person for the most part.
"And let my plan be foiled?! Hah! Not a chance, child!" Animo dug into his pockets secretly. "The Transmodulator is not the only thing you have to worry about, boy. I have something from Star Labs I retrieved a few years ago. Behold! This is a prototype, but it should have enough power to take you down."
Suddenly, a gun was shown, but it wasn't one that fired any bullets. Instead, it seemed to affect gravity, sending spiralling waves towards him. It would have an effect on his flight. "W-Whoa!" He gasped, falling forward.
He hit the ground hard, the impact sending him rolling. His cape caught on the pavement, ripping as he rolled to a stop. "G-Grr..." Jon groaned.
"So long, boy!" Animo mocked the young half-kryptonian, continuing towards the building.
Jon pushed himself to his feet, shaking off the dizziness. He was certainly blindsided, not expected to be hit by such a weapon. As he held his head, right next to him, the Rustbucket had shown up. The doors swung open, revealing a worried Max and Ben.
"Jon! Are you alright, son?"
"Yeah...I'm fine. Sorry. He just used something that messed with my powers."
"Don't be sorry. You did good. Where did he go?" Max asked.
"Kelly Industries." Jon pointed.
"We can still catch up! Floor it, Grandpa! He's going to ruin their new invention and I want it!" Ben exclaimed. Jon readjusted himself, taking flight once more as he and the Rustbucket moved side-by-side. Now, both were rapidly in pursuit of the Doctor.
"Finally, after all this time, I shall be vindicated!" He declared, the mutant scientist arriving at the building. And in his sights, the award that he believed should've been his.
"As if!" Jon's voice cried out from the distance, startling Animo as he turned around.
"Again?! Do you not know when to quit, boy?!" Animo yelled out.
"None of us do!" Ben spoke as the door to the Rustbucket was open. He pressed down on the Omnitrix, transforming one more. This time, he took on the form of Heatblast, leaping out of the Rustbucket.
Heatblast's fiery body would allow him to generate a stream of flames that allowed him some form of flight, soaring through the sky. Max and the Rustbucket would be right behind the group, keeping an eye on things.
Heatblast and Jon flew towards him, and Animo quickly pulled the trigger, shooting out a laser beam at Heatblast. However, Heatblast was able to barely avoid it. "It's that helmet that's the problem!" Jon pointed at the Transmodulator. "If we break it, he won't be able to transform any animas again!"
"Got it." Heatblast was on it, accelerating past Jon and heading straight for Animo.
Animo gritted his teeth, preparing to shoot another blast at him. However, before he could, Heatblast grabbed him by the collar, and began to spin him around in circles. "W-What?!" Animo was stunned.
"Say cheese, you mad scientist!" Heatblast smirked as he smashed his fist directly at the Transmodulator, landing an impact on Animo's head as a bonus. Animo grimaced as he was then dropped to the ground, right in front of the Kelly Industries building too as his Transmodulator caught on fire from Heatblasts's flames.
"Noooo!" Animo screamed as his beloved machine was now nothing but scrap. "You destroyed it! You destroyed the Transmodulator! Years of research and development - GONE!" He roared at the top of his lungs as his mission had come to an end. The two security officers at the building witnessed this as Heatblast dropped him when descending.
"Nice going, Ben." Jon said, glad to have him assist.
"Thanks." Heatblast said.
"Hm. You were right. He did show up again years later." One of the guards said. "You owe me 50."
"Just restrain him already." The other guard said as they both went up to Animo.
"Let me go! I deserve that award! I've got it coming to me! I want it!" Animo screeched while being dragged away, the last of his Transmodulator being melted away by the flames.
The situation came to an end and the damages Animo left behind on the museum and the mall were massive, especially for the former. It would take days for them to rebuild the damage done and restore the exhibits that were ruined.
"Ugh...that was a huge mess. We've gotta leave now." Gwen said.
"Yeah...I'm a bit beat right now..." Jon sighed, having used a lot of energy today.
"I didn't get that Superman merch, but at least we stopped that wacko." Ben was rather satisfied for a job well done, taking it over the merch. "It's not so bad, actually. I guess this is kinda like a reward."
"That's the spirit, Ben." Max grinned. "Let's head back on the road kids. And you know...maybe getting something you want is well deserved since you're so beat." Max was kind enough to let Ben actually choose what he wants. And the same goes for Jon and Gwen. The widest smile formed on Ben's face.
"Really?! Alright! Thanks, Grandpa!" Ben ran towards the Rustbucket, wanting to take his time searching. This was going to pay off after all.