Dear Professor,

This is a formal update as to the condition of one Deerling x Skitty fusion, now known affectionately as Syke. The subject in question still remains an egg and has been kept constantly on hand, or more precisely, strapped to my chest in a self-made sling. I have had the odd comment about looking like a Kangaskhan mum brooding over her baby. I rather welcome the simile and hope to make a good a parent as a Kangaskhan. So far there has been only been a minimum amount of activity from the egg. Yesterday I felt the slightest wriggle and this morning a soft tap, as if Syke was testing the strength of his or her shell. Daily measurements show that the circumference of the egg has not changed.

I remain in Mato Town, in a guest house, and will stay here until the egg hatches. After an initial week of bonding we will begin our travels. I intend to take on the mountain as well as any Gym Leaders along the way and will send regular updates as to how Syke is progressing. I greatly anticipate our time together and hope to visit the lab again for more official testing.

In particular I hope to discuss the various evolution possibilities of Fusions. I’m sure the combined genes will open up a fascinating new world of potential. With that in mind, and I hopes I seeking new information, I intend to expose Syke to all sorts of different environments, particularly snowy areas. The mountains will eventually become our new home (I have already put in a building permit request) and if I could somehow induce my young Fusion to take on winter seasonal aspect of its Deerling side, I would be mighty chuffed.

We will offer our services as a guide through the mountains, though to begin with I will need to spend time up there, learning about her moods and how she behaves. Every mountain is different but all are temperamental and need to be treated with respect. You never go up to the mountain expecting to be offered a kindly attitude, you must be strong but also humble as you approach her. Try to tame her and she will destroy you in an instant. She has no time for disrespect or the weak. Many learn that the hard way.

It’s funny how we can never quite escape from our childhood. No matter how old we get, we still go back to the old things that we knew. Wherever I travel, I always find my way back to the mountainside, to the cold and the snow.

In other news, there is this little café here down by the water. Flaming Fledgling Feasts, it’s called. Terrible name, but they make the most amazing stew I’ve ever had. Don’t show my sister this letter or she’ll gut me for liking someone’s food more than hers. While the population in Elove is still small by any standards, I know it had a bright future ahead and many brilliant people will come seeking a new life here. It with great pride that I take part in your research on this fascinating island.

Until the next time,

Everett Thorne