ALL NOVEL Chapter 55: Chapter 55: Three Ways to Help Jumpluff
Although Rax wanted to ask why Dr. Yamanashi agreed to his unusual request, he decided to keep his curiosity to himself. The quiet, focused atmosphere of the institute impressed upon him the gravity of the work being done here.
While he and Dr. Yamanashi watched the Magnemite move erratically in their simulated magnetic field, Rax remembered his real purpose for coming and broke the silence.
"Dr. Yamanashi, do you think there are other Pokémon that could also evolve through magnetic fields?"
Dr. Yamanashi turned to him, his sharp gaze encouraging Rax to continue.
"Well, when you mentioned Mt. Coronet earlier, it reminded me of Magneton, which is known to appear there. Could its evolution also be tied to the mountain's magnetic field?"
The doctor nodded thoughtfully. "You're observant, Rax. I actually considered the same possibility and applied for a batch of Magneton specimens last night. It's highly likely."
Rax was astonished by the doctor's preparedness but played along. "That's incredible! I hadn't expected you to already be working on it."
Dr. Yamanashi smiled faintly before Uesugi, his assistant, returned to the room.
The doctor addressed Rax again. "You've raised an important point. If you discover anything else, please let me know. For now, discuss your compensation with Uesugi; he'll ensure you receive the maximum subsidy for your contributions."
"Thank you, Dr. Yamanashi!" Rax hesitated before continuing, "Actually, there's something else I'd like your help with—my Jumpluff."
Curious, Dr. Yamanashi gestured for Rax to explain.
Rax released Jumpluff, who nervously nestled into his arms. He recounted its inability to use offensive moves despite its strong talent in supportive skills.
After listening attentively, Dr. Yamanashi fell into deep thought. "Interesting... Uesugi, fetch files A-408, C-1104, and Z-33. We'll need them in the examination room."
Uesugi nodded and left, while Rax followed the doctor to the examination room with Jumpluff.
Once Uesugi returned, he skillfully began a comprehensive examination of Jumpluff. Dr. Yamanashi, meanwhile, reviewed the files he had requested. Within ten minutes, both were finished.
Dr. Yamanashi inspected Jumpluff personally before delivering his verdict. "There are three possible ways to address this, but none are easy."
Rax's heart sank. He listened carefully as the doctor explained:
1. Persistent Training: With rigorous, targeted exercises, there is a 10% chance that Jumpluff could overcome its limitation and learn offensive moves.
2. Evolution Stimulation: By exposing Jumpluff to life-threatening stress before its next evolution, the transformation process might reset its abilities. However, this method relies heavily on luck.
3. Energy Infusion: By exposing Jumpluff to high-quality energy crystals and high-level energy—possibly from a Legendary Pokémon—its shortcomings might be compensated. This approach requires significant resources and good fortune.
Rax was stunned by the challenges of all three methods. "Dr. Yamanashi, do the files you reviewed correspond to these cases?"
The doctor handed Rax the documents, and after reading them, he concluded that while all methods were viable, the third offered the best results. However, it was also the most resource-intensive.
"Doctor, would the income from my contributions to the Magneton research be enough to exchange for a suitable energy crystal?" Rax asked cautiously.
Dr. Yamanashi nodded. "It should suffice."
Uesugi appeared hesitant, but Rax didn't press the matter. He decided he would compensate the doctor in other ways if necessary.
Dr. Yamanashi offered a final piece of advice. "You might consider combining the second and third methods. Evolution remains one of the most mysterious aspects of Pokémon biology."
"I'll keep that in mind. Thank you, Doctor," Rax replied sincerely.
With his primary objectives accomplished, Rax prepared to leave Zhenshang Town. Over the next three days, he spent time at the institute, learning from Uesugi, who provided him with the best Pokéblock formulas for his Pokémon.
"For now, mid-level Pokéblocks are enough," Uesugi explained. "Excess energy might hinder their development."
Rax carefully accepted the sample Pokéblocks and formulas, feeling a renewed sense of determination as he set his sights on his next destination: Eterna City.