Chapter 17: Modifying Project Mewtwo

Julian stood on the ship's rooftop, gazing out at the approaching Vermillion City with anticipation, knowing that his next gym battle was just around the corner.

Julian thought to himself, "The main storyline is already in motion; Ash and Gary have embarked on their journeys. I must prepare for the challenges that lie ahead, and that means becoming stronger alongside my Pokémon partners."

Alice joined him on the rooftop, her eyes taking in the breathtaking view of the cityscape. She turned to Julian with a warm smile. "Isn't this city beautiful, Julian?"

Julian nodded, appreciating the view. "Yes, it truly is."

Alice spoke softly, a hint of melancholy in her voice. "So, this is where we part ways, isn't it?"

Julian remained silent, his emotions difficult to express.

Alice continued, her words tinged with a touch of sadness. "Well, then, Julian, I hope our paths cross again someday."

Julian managed a genuine smile as he looked at her. "Goodbye, Alice."

Despite spending weeks together, their bond had deepened, yet it remained one of camaraderie and shared experiences, devoid of romantic feelings.

The ship finally docked at the bustling seaport, and Julian eagerly disembarked with his trusty bike in tow. Making his way to the nearby Pokémon Center, he knew that his next adventure was about to unfold.

Upon arrival at the Pokémon Center, Julian approached Nurse Joy and entrusted her with the care of his beloved Pokémon companions. With their well-being secured, he rented a room for himself, ready to take a moment of respite.

Inside his room, Julian contemplated the recent system update that had been integrated into his journey. He decided to explore its new features, saying aloud, "The system has already updated. Let's see what new capabilities it has gained. System, display your new features."

As Julian issued the command, a faint sound resonated in his mind, and a translucent screen materialized before him, visible only to him.

System updated

New features

Store an infinite amount of data.

Process and modify existing data and run virtual simulations.

Scan the area within 100 meters of the host's location to detect lifeforms and some rare stones.

Display enhanced information about scanned Pokémon.

Julian nodded, acknowledging the new features. "Not many additions, but these are just what I need. The options available now are perfect. Let's explore modifications. Can I modify the Project Mewteo? Let's find out."

Julian contemplated his next move, knowing that modifying Project Mewtwo was a critical step in his journey. He addressed the system with determination, "System, copy all the data from this drive and initiate the modification process for Project Mewtwo. Ensure that the modifications are safe, devoid of side effects, and do not involve harmful DNA-altering methods." Julian produced the drive containing Team Rocket's information and Project Mewtwo data.

The system responded promptly, "Copying all data. Copy successful. Commencing modification of Project Mewtwo."

Shortly after, another message from the system appeared, alerting Julian to the complexity of the task at hand, "Informing the host that the modification of Project Mewtwo is a complex process. The estimated time for completion is 370 days. Would the host like to proceed with the modification?"

Julian weighed the decision carefully. After a moment's thought, he nodded to himself and replied, "Well, it doesn't harm anyone. Please continue with the process."

The system acknowledged his decision, "Affirmative."

Julian leaned back, contemplating the road ahead. "With that problem sorted, all that's left is to wait and see what the future holds. If I'm to capture a Mew, I'll need a Dark or Ghost-type Pokémon. Perhaps I can find one here. But for now, I won't dwell on it."

Julian settled himself onto the carpet, closing his eyes as he began to meditate. His mind, previously cluttered with thoughts and concerns, gradually quieted. Unbeknownst to him, half a day slipped by in the blink of an eye, and when he finally roused from his meditative trance, he felt transformed – stronger and sharper than ever before.

Julian questioned the system, a sense of wonder in his voice, "System, what just happened to me?"

The system replied with a hint of pride, "The host has reached the next stage and has transcended the limitations of the mortal body. You can now sense the spiritual energy surrounding you, which enhances your stats."

Curiosity piqued, Julian realized he hadn't yet checked his updated statistics. He inquired, "My stats, I haven't examined them until now. System, please display my current statistics."

Status - Host

Age - 16

Height - 6 feet

Strength - 76

Constitution - 80

Defense - 70

Dexterity - 83

Intelligence - 85

Charisma - 80

Wisdom - 70

Skills - cooking, sword master, close combat master, master shooter

Julian scrutinized his updated stats, noting the changes with a thoughtful expression. "It seems my body stats and intelligence have experienced significant growth, but they're not evenly balanced. Well, that's to be expected with my focused training. Wisdom remains constant, but I anticipate it will develop further over time. As for my charm, it appears unchanged, and I have no complaints about that."

Shaking off his introspection, Julian resolved, "Enough of this. Let's retrieve my Pokémon."

He proceeded to the Pokémon Center, where Nurse Joy returned his beloved companions to him. With his team now reunited, Julian set his sights on the nearby forest as a training ground.

Within the forest, Julian encountered a variety of Pokémon, but he decided to focus on Pidgey, hoping it would evolve soon to assist in capturing a Ghost-type Pokémon. His training session was interrupted when he faced a formidable Raticate.

Julian commanded with confidence, "Pidgey, use Gust!"

The powerful wind attack sent the Raticate tumbling, but it quickly regained its footing. With surprising agility, the Raticate scaled a nearby tree and launched itself at Pidgey, trying to sink its sharp fangs into Julian's flying companion with a Hyper Fang attack.

Julian remained steadfast in his battle, issuing commands with confidence. "Pidgey, dodge, then use Quick Attack!"

Pidgey executed a graceful sidelong glide, narrowly evading Raticate's attack. In a swift motion, Pidgey ascended to the sky before diving down at blistering speed, striking Raticate with a powerful Quick Attack. The Raticate crashed to the ground, defeated. Pidgey returned to Julian's side, landing on his shoulder.

Julian congratulated his Pokémon with a warm smile. "You did exceptionally well." As he patted Pidgey's head, a radiant glow enveloped the small bird Pokémon, causing it to grow and transform into a majestic Pidgeotto.

With a sense of curiosity, Julian requested, "System, display Pidgeotto's updated stats."

Status - Pidgeotto

Level - 18

Age - 2 years

State - Happy

Bond - 85%

HP - 80

Attack - 90

Defense - 55

Sp. Atk - 95

Sp. Def - 65

Speed - 120

Julian inquired about the term "Bond" as he studied Pidgeotto's stats. The system provided an explanation, "It represents the bond and trust between the trainer and the Pokémon. The maximum limit is 100%."

Satisfied with the information, Julian remarked, "I see. And looking at these stats, Pidgeotto has grown significantly stronger. There's still plenty of room for improvement."

Julian continued to praise his newly evolved Pidgeotto, to which the Pokémon responded with excited chirps and joyful flight.

Julian decided it was time to return. "Pidgeotto, come, let's head back before we're late."

As they journeyed back to the city, Julian stopped by some shops to restock on supplies. Upon reaching the Pokémon Center, he witnessed a young boy rushing in with his badly injured Bulbasaur. Concerned, Julian followed the boy's actions and approached Nurse Joy.

Julian questioned her about the condition of the Bulbasaur. "Nurse Joy, why is that Bulbasaur so badly hurt?"

Nurse Joy, recognizing Julian as a newcomer, explained, "You must be new here. The Vermilion City Gym Leader is known for his intense battles. Challenging trainers either defeat him or end up with their Pokémon admitted to the Pokémon Center."

Julian listened to her explanation, empathizing with the young trainer and the injured Bulbasaur. He couldn't help but shake his head, realizing the harsh reality of Pokémon battles.

Julian couldn't help but smirk as he thought about the forthcoming challenge with Lt. Surge. "This Lt. Surge seems to enjoy playing rough, doesn't he? Well, I wouldn't mind a bit of rough play myself. It should be fun." His smile, though seemingly innocent, hid a mischievous edge, giving him an air of intrigue that might make others uneasy.

Finally, the day arrived when Julian got ready to challenge Lt. Surge. With his Pokémon by his side and the knowledge of the Vermilion City Gym's reputation, he couldn't help but feel a surge of excitement and apprehension.