Professor Evergreen's research on Mega Evolution had significantly advanced due to Lian, breaking through previous limitations. If everything proceeded as expected, a complete understanding of Mega Evolution was imminent.
Lian also felt anticipation; his experience with Mega Evolution thus far was unsatisfying, being only a partial transformation. Although it significantly enhanced his power, a full Mega Evolution would undoubtedly make him even stronger.
As Kalia observed Professor Evergreen conducting experiments, the first step involved identifying elements capable of sustaining resonance. This proved relatively straightforward, thanks to insights from Z-crystals and Professor Evergreen's prior findings, enabling them to swiftly locate suitable elements.
These elements were multicolored, and the Meteorite Shard previously obtained by Kalia was nearly depleted. Even for Professor Evergreen, gathering enough of this colored element was challenging.
The unique properties of these elements allowed reactions with virtually all other elements, making them ideal carriers for resonance and facilitating its generation.
Professor Evergreen incorporated the multicolored elements into a glass sphere, creating the first Key Stone.
"Let's call it a Key Stone, symbolizing its role akin to a key," said Professor Evergreen.
Professor Evergreen explained that the Key Stone, held by Trainers, could guide the resonance and assist in unleashing a Pokemon's latent power, much like a key unlocking its potential.
"Key Stone." Kalia grasped the first-ever Key Stone, with the vibrant elements encased within the glass sphere, creating a dazzling appearance.
Lian observed this inaugural Key Stone, noting that very few Trainers had mastered Mega Evolution due to the scarcity of these unique elements. They seemed obtainable only from specific meteorites, which were not found in either Sebas or Ellie regions.
The Ellie Region's discovery of Z-power also originated from elements within meteorites. However, they did not realize the potential for element combinations to react with Pokemon; instead, they isolated individual elements to create Z-crystals and developed Z-power accordingly.
In reality, Mega Evolution and Z-moves share many similarities. For instance, a Z-Ring can accommodate a Key Stone as well, but their research directions diverged significantly.
To produce more Mega Evolution Stones and Key Stones, it would likely require collecting a substantial amount of colorful meteorites. Once Mega Evolution is fully researched, the Pokemon League will undoubtedly prioritize gathering meteorites across various regions.
With the completion of the Key Stone, one part of the Mega Evolution set was ready. The next step involved creating the Mega Ring. Although it could be substituted with a Z-Ring, as this represented new technology, Professor Evergreen would not rely on Ellie Region's existing Z-Rings.
"Kalia, what do you think would be an appropriate name for this hidden power within Pokemon?" After concluding his experiment and taking a break, Professor Evergreen turned to Kalia beside him and asked.
"When Charizard transforms, its strength significantly increases, far surpassing that of an ordinary Charizard. How about calling it 'Mega Power'?" suggested Kalia. "Mega," meaning super or beyond the usual level, seemed fitting according to her interpretation.
"Yes, 'Mega,' indicating 'superior,' is quite apt. From now on, let's refer to this phenomenon as 'Mega Power.' The transformation achieved by Pokemon through Mega Power resembles a new form of evolution; hence, we can call it 'Mega Evolution,'" Professor Evergreen nodded approvingly, fully endorsing Kalia's suggestion, which perfectly captured the essence.
Having settled on a name, Professor Evergreen resumed his research. This time, he enlisted assistance, investing considerable effort to create the specialized Mega Ring exclusively for Mega Evolution.
Although the technology behind Z-Rings remains incompletely deciphered, Professor Evergreen doesn't need to crack it further since Mega Evolution has been achieved.
This means that while Z-Rings can facilitate both Mega and Ultra Transformations, the Mega Ring is specifically designed for Mega Evolution, making it incompatible with Z-crystals; instead, it can only accommodate Key Stones.
"Here you go."
Professor Evergreen handed Kalia the Key Stone and Mega Ring. Due to limited materials, only one set could be produced at present. Since Kalia significantly contributed to researching Mega Energy, her efforts rightfully earned her these items.
"Thank you, Professor." Overjoyed, Kalia had initially been baffled by Charizard's sudden Mega Evolution. However, after Professor Evergreen's explanation, she gradually understood.
Now equipped with the ring, Key Stone, and Mega Stone, she could attempt to trigger Charizard's Mega Evolution herself.
"Oh right, there's another elemental combination compatible with Charizard. I'll create an additional Mega Evolution Stone shortly and conduct an experimental evolution," Professor Evergreen suddenly mentioned.
Charizard was unique because all other Pokemon capable of Mega Evolution had only one elemental combination. However, Charizard possessed two distinct combinations, piquing Professor Evergreen's curiosity immensely.
Could this mean that Charizard has two different forms of Mega Evolution? If true, it would be truly groundbreaking.
"Alright, by the way, Professor, I'd like to enter the Dream World first," Kalia nodded and mentioned.
Kalia planned to stay temporarily in Rhine City, giving her ample time to assist with the doctor's experiments. She had been eager to revisit the Dream World for quite some time.
"No problem at all. The Dream Machine is ready just now. Once I finish calibrating it, we can use it. Go ahead and call your friend over," Professor Evergreen responded enthusiastically. His discovery of Mega Evolution marked a significant breakthrough; he could potentially become the most renowned Pokemon Professor in the Sebas region.
Shortly after, Kalia brought Julian to the research institute, coinciding perfectly with Professor Evergreen completing his adjustments on the Dream Machine. With preparations nearly finished, they were set to enter the Dream World.
"Kalia, what exactly is going on with your Charizard?" As soon as Julian entered the research institute, he asked Kalia, driven by sheer curiosity. Having his own Charizard, the prospect of achieving a transformation similar to Kalia's Charizard was incredibly exciting.
"Let's enter the Dream World first, and I'll explain it to you there. Trust me, this technology is truly remarkable," Kalia suggested as they prepared for their journey. Engaging in conversation while exploring the Dream World would be more convenient once inside.
"Alright," Julian nodded in agreement.
Both of them lay down on the Dream Machine, with all sensors properly connected. After placing their Poké Balls aside, Professor Evergreen brought four empty Dream Balls, allowing them to capture desired Pokémon within the Dream World using these specialized tools.
If even two Dream Balls failed to capture a Pokémon, it typically indicated either the Trainer's inadequacy or the targeted Pokémon's strong resistance against being captured.
Generally, when a Pokémon is defeated and its consciousness fades due to exhaustion, capturing it with a Poké Ball usually signifies successful acquisition.
However, some Pokémon exhibit fierce defiance, resisting capture even in an unconscious state. While rare, such determined creatures do exist.
As the duo settled in, Professor Evergreen covered them with transparent protective shields before activating the Dream Machine.
Kalia and Julian each held a Lunar Feather tightly. This initial venture was merely exploratory; therefore, Kalia planned to familiarize themselves with the environment first before searching for Zapdos.
Since they had no clear idea of the little Zapdos' location, gaining familiarity with the surroundings seemed essential before embarking on a methodical search.