Chapter 4: Chapter 4: Pichu is Born
Pichu's development progressed at an astonishing rate, far beyond Ethan's expectations. It absorbed nutrients rapidly, reaching visible maturity within days. By the end of the week, a hundred Pichu eggs had filled the culture tanks.
Upon hearing the news, Ethan hurried to the lab, where Annie greeted him, her smile reflecting the team's shared anticipation.
"Mr. Grave, after extensive checks, these eggs are fully matured," she informed him. "We're ready to transfer them from the culture tanks to the incubators."
The eggs, large and round with faint green patches, intrigued everyone. Although they had observed the growth process closely, none could predict what might hatch from them.
Annie had scoured research materials but found no records of creatures that matched these eggs' rapid growth or unique features. It was unlike anything in the industry, a new species that was evolving in record time.
The nutrient consumption had been intense, requiring daily refills as growth accelerated. The expense had already crossed two million yuan, draining much of Ethan's remaining capital. Yet, the progress was undeniable, and he clung to the hope that his investment would soon pay off.
"Let's take one egg out for a closer look," he said, eagerness evident in his voice. To the team, this was a mystery creature, but to Ethan, it was Pichu, the first Pokémon he had brought into this world.
They carefully retrieved a Pichu egg, roughly the size of an ostrich egg, with light green markings. Holding it up to the light, they could see movement within—the faint stirrings of life.
"It almost looks like a mouse inside," someone noted.
"Maybe," another researcher replied. "We'll know soon enough once it hatches."
Annie examined the egg more closely, her curiosity piqued. Could it be that Ethan had actually designed this species himself?
"Is it healthy?" Ethan asked, unable to conceal his excitement.
"Definitely," Annie confirmed. "It has incredible vitality and appears ready to hatch."
"Great," he replied, feeling a surge of relief. "Carefully transfer each egg to the incubators and monitor them closely."
Ethan visited the lab daily, captivated by the eggs' progress. Watching these lives develop filled him with a sense of wonder and purpose. He had even doubled Pichu's growth speed gene, accelerating its path to hatching, though he hadn't been prepared for such rapid results.
As the week drew to a close, the embryos were nearly ready. According to Annie, the hatchlings would likely emerge within the next day or two. Ethan could hardly believe it: less than a month ago, he had a simple idea, and now he was on the verge of introducing Pokémon to this world.
---
Friday Morning
Ethan was about to head out for his morning lab check when his phone rang.
"Mr. Grave, they've hatched!" Annie's voice was bright with excitement.
Grinning, Ethan rushed to his car, driving to the lab with a new sense of urgency. When he arrived, Annie was already waiting, her expression filled with awe.
"These little ones are so lively… and adorable," she said, leading him into the hatching room.
Inside, Ethan saw them, and his heart swelled at the sight. Small, yellow-skinned creatures with big ears, round faces, and tiny tails wobbled on unsteady feet, blinking up at the researchers.
Their cuteness was overwhelming. They looked around curiously, their fluffy yellow coats making them irresistibly cuddly. They had black-edged ears, a small "scarf" of black around their necks, and adorable pink cheeks that added a playful charm.
"Oh my gosh, it's nuzzling my hand!"
"It's so sweet! Can we keep one?"
The researchers, especially the women, were enraptured, doting on the newborns as they nuzzled against hands and fingers, drawing smiles and laughter from everyone.
Annie turned to Ethan, her expression half-apologetic. "I don't blame them; these little creatures are enchanting."
"Mr. Grave," one of the researchers asked, "what are they?"
Ethan looked around the room, a proud smile on his face. "These are the first of their kind, and since their little sounds remind me of 'Pichu,' I've decided to name them just that—Pichu."
The team echoed the name while smiling. It had a ring of innocence, capturing the spirit of these lovable creatures.
Annie glanced at Ethan, a question in her eyes. "Last time, you mentioned that you designed these yourself. Were you serious?"
Ethan nodded, meeting her gaze. "Yes," he thought, "But this is just the beginning."
...
Thanks for reading, if you've enjoyed it, please consider becoming a member of my Patreon for further benefits.
Patreon - patreon.com/chibi_mon_mon