In the games, there are nearly twenty types of Hidden Power, but in Owen's current world, only eight Eevee evolutions are known.
However, this didn't mean others didn't exist. Owen knew for a fact that as the games updated, more forms appeared.
Professor Aoki's theory made sense. Magnemite, a Steel/Electric type, had developed an incredibly sharp mind because its Hidden Power was Psychic-type.
This made learning moves like Reflect and Light Screen much easier. If this logic applied to Eevee, using its Hidden Power type to determine its "genetic destiny" was a brilliant scientific approach.
"Since Eevee has the ability to choose its path, why not make the most informed, scientific choice?" Professor Aoki nodded.
"Identify the attribute it's most compatible with through Hidden Power, and then focus your efforts there.
Of course... if your Eevee awakens a Dragon, Ground, or Flying type, you might just have to give up on this method for now."
Everyone laughed. No one—not even Owen—had heard of those specific Eevee evolutions in this world yet.
Damn it, Owen thought. I should have played the latest gen before I crossed over. I know there are new Pokémon appearing in Secret Realms abroad, but I haven't heard a peep about a new 'Eeveelution' yet.
However, Professor Aoki's theory hit a major roadblock.
"The problem is... there's no way to learn Hidden Power," Owen pointed out.
"Exactly. Awakening it is entirely a matter of luck. No one knows how to force a Pokémon to learn it. So, my theory is just that—a theory. Without a massive data set to verify it, it remains speculative."
Owen looked at Eevee; Eevee looked at the ceiling. She clearly didn't think she could just "self-teach" a move like that.
"Still, my advice stands: if your Eevee ever has the chance to learn Hidden Power, use that type to guide her evolution. It will maximize her potential."
"Thank you, Professor."
"My pleasure. Now, let's head to the backyard. I'll show you the Pokémon we keep for research."
The institute's backyard housed five Eevee used for various studies. With the Professor's permission, Siyu immediately scooped one up for a cuddle.
"Those two over there are the ones with the Anticipation (Danger Pretense) Ability," Aoki said, pointing them out.
"Vee..." Owen's Eevee looked at the five research Eevee. Compared to the one she fought yesterday, these had a completely different "vibe." She felt like she could take on all five at once.
"Professor, do any of these Eevee know Baby-Doll Eyes?" Owen asked. He was still obsessed with Cynthia's Fairy-type Eevee.
"Baby-Doll Eyes?" Aoki frowned. "The Fairy-type move?"
"Yes."
"No. These Eevee haven't undergone specialized combat training; they only know basic moves," Aoki said, his interest piqued. "Actually, this is the first I've heard of an Eevee learning that move. Does yours know it?"
"No, no," Owen shook his head. "I just encountered an Eevee yesterday in a battle that used it."
"Oh?" Aoki's eyes sharpened. "An Eevee using Baby-Doll Eyes... interesting. Do you know the trainer?"
"Not personally," Owen said. "But she's a student from Magic City University and a researcher specializing in Fairy-types. Her name is Cynthia (Xie Qingyi)."
The moment Owen said the name, Professor Aoki stiffened slightly.
"Cynthia... I see."
As the day wound down, Owen and Siyu prepared to leave. Owen was thrilled to have secured Professor Aoki's private contact information—the trip had been more than worth it.
"I'll see you out," Aoki smiled, walking them to the gates. "You're welcome back anytime."
Owen was touched. He hadn't expected a researcher of such stature to be so hospitable and talkative. After leaving, Siyu remarked, "I've never seen Professor Aoki so chatty, especially about those theories... he must really think highly of you."
Owen scratched his head. He was honored, but since he wasn't planning on attending Aurelia University, he felt a bit guilty.
That night, back at the hotel, Owen was packing. The school term was starting soon, and he needed to get back to Pingcheng to prepare for the Provincial High School Pokémon League.
Suddenly, his phone rang. It was an unknown number, but the caller ID Owen had just saved popped up: Professor Aoki.
Why is he calling me so soon?
"Hello? Professor Aoki?"
"Owen, it's me. I just realized I have an urgent research topic that requires more data on the reaction speeds of Eevee with the Anticipation Ability. Do you think you could come back to the institute tomorrow to assist me?"
"Uh... sure, no problem," Owen replied, slightly hesitant but unable to refuse. "What time?"
After hanging up, Owen flopped back onto the bed. He'd have to delay his return to Pingcheng. Another study on Anticipation? I wonder what he's really up to.
At that exact moment, in the lobby of the very same hotel, a young woman with fluffy tea-colored hair walked up to the front desk. It was Cynthia.
She looked a bit dazed as she spoke to the receptionist. "Excuse me... do you have any rooms left?"
"Checking... we have two rooms available," the clerk replied.
"I'll take one. Also, I saw online that you offer a discount for university trainers?"
"We do."
"Great. Here is my ID."
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