Pokémon: Virus Evolution

Joint development of Ancient Ruins…

Upon hearing the conversation between the two, Lucius immediately understood Dolores' intentions.

Kanto was not Syndicate's territory. Conducting archaeological excavations outside their sphere of influence without attracting attention was nearly impossible. Instead of risking exposure and interference, it was wiser to propose the idea themselves. This not only served as a goodwill gesture to smooth over the failed trade but also leveraged Team Rocket's local influence to minimize potential complications.

Despite the modern era, numerous clues and indications from various regions suggested that prosperous civilizations once thrived in the past. While these ancient civilizations may have developed along different paths from the present, there was no doubt they possessed a dazzling level of advancement.

For reasons unknown, however, these past civilizations had vanished entirely, leaving only scattered ruins across different regions as proof of their existence.

Some of these ruins had already been discovered and studied, contributing significantly to human technological advancements. Many aspects of modern civilization—such as Pokémon Gigantamaxing—were reverse-engineered from ancient discoveries.

Moreover, evidence suggested that ancient people might have had the ability to control or even command Legendary Pokémon, an irresistible temptation for any ambitious organization.

One of the most notable examples was the Hoenn Battle Pyramid's Brandon, who obtained the legendary Regi trio from ancient ruins.

Though Brandon himself was only at the Elite Four level, his control over Regirock, Regice, and Registeel elevated his combat prowess to that of a Champion-tier Trainer.

These factors fueled the fervent interest of many major organizations, including the Pokémon League, in the exploration of ancient ruins laden with untold treasures.

In this context, if Team Rocket were to learn that Syndicate was secretly excavating ruins in their backyard, how could they not get involved? If the Pokémon League caught wind of it, the situation would be even more troublesome…

Dolores remained composed as she addressed the question posed by Tyler Jorron, who had already deduced her awareness of his true identity.

"I'm not surprised that you know who I am," Tyler said, shaking his head. "But I'm curious—under what pretense does Syndicate intend to proceed with the excavation?"

"The plan has already been finalized. Dr. Onando will be leading the mission under the guise of studying local flora and Pokémon habitats," Dolores explained.

"I see," Tyler nodded, his expression showing a hint of surprise. "I never expected someone as renowned as Dr. Onando to collaborate with Syndicate."

"Unova and Kanto operate under different systems, and Syndicate is not a rigid organization. Cooperation does not require full allegiance," Dolores replied nonchalantly, swiftly steering the discussion forward. "I want Team Rocket to assign a representative to meet with us within two days to discuss the terms of joint development."

"That goes without saying…"

As the two continued discussing the finer details, Lucius received confirmation that the viral infection of Tyler's subordinates had been successful.

Simultaneously infecting two individuals gave Lucius a dual perspective—a peculiar yet intriguing sensation. However, after a brief adjustment, he had become accustomed to it, akin to controlling both hands at once, except that these "hands" were far apart.

Leaving the bodies of Tyler's subordinates, Lucius infiltrated the body of a Liepard with sleek purple fur and yellow markings—one of the strongest Pokémon brought by the Syndicate operative accompanying Dolores.

Though infecting humans was faster, Pokémon provided greater evolutionary benefits at this stage.

A sudden question crossed Lucius' mind: why was there no time lag when controlling separate viral colonies over long distances? He could simultaneously perceive Tyler's ongoing conversation while sensing his viral expansion within the Liepard.

Could this be… quantum entanglement?

The thought was fleeting as the negotiations in the office reached their preliminary conclusion.

Lucius could sense that Tyler was in high spirits. Although today's deal had not gone as planned, the prospect of ruin exploration was far more valuable.

Once the talks ended, Tyler and his men left in their vehicles.

Lucius hesitated briefly before deciding to leave Tyler's body and remain at the base.

It wasn't the right time to kill him yet. With the infection already in place, there would be plenty of opportunities in the future.

Another reason for staying was to maintain proximity between his viral colonies—if they spread too far apart, he might lose control. After all, one colony already consumed half his life force.

Lastly, he was intrigued by Dolores. She was the first human he had encountered who possessed a protective shield that prevented infection.

Leaving Tyler's body, Lucius transferred back into the Syndicate operative—the Liepard's Trainer.

A family should stick together, after all…

I'll send you all off together when the time comes.

While Lucius worked toward infecting 20 life forms, Dolores had just finished reviewing the medical team's report.

Mike, Nanwu, and two others, along with a Mightyena, had all perished from the same toxin.

This toxin had spread extensively throughout their bodies, causing pathological damage to multiple organs, skin, and even hair follicles. The venom was so potent that death occurred in less than thirty seconds from exposure. Furthermore, analysis revealed that a single drop of the purified toxin could kill at least ten people.

Were they poisoned? Or were they attacked by a Poison-type Pokémon?

Dolores pondered over the findings. Investigating the sudden deaths of two squad captains was one of her primary objectives.

Security footage from the base showed no signs of unauthorized personnel or unfamiliar Pokémon during the relevant time frame. Aside from their cargo, the victims had not come into contact with any external Pokémon.

So how did they become poisoned?

After some consideration, Dolores ordered everyone to wear gas masks until the base's air composition had been thoroughly analyzed.

Of course, Lucius remained unaware of Dolores' plans, nor would he have cared if he knew.

Did these pathetic humans really think they could outsmart me? he mused with amusement.

After successfully infecting the Liepard, Lucius received a new series of system notifications.

[Congratulations, Host! Complete infection of host body achieved—updating evolutionary status.]

[Liepard's 'Limber' Ability successfully analyzed. Viral evolution progress increased by 10%. Resistance to Electric-type energy acquired.]

[Progenitor Virus evolution at 100%. Upgrading to Level 4.]

With successful infections of Whirlipede, Liepard, Tyler, and other humans, Lucius' evolution had finally surpassed the threshold of Level 3.

Most excitingly, the analysis of Liepard's 'Limber' Ability granted him newfound resistance to Electric-type energy.

Does this mean I can finally attempt to infect Electric-type Pokémon?

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