The yard had quieted now, the excitement of evolution settling into calm.
Albert, however, was far from done.
Each new Eeveelution—Espeon, Umbreon, Leafeon, Glaceon, and Sylveon—was a breakthrough, a living testament to his research. He knew that if these discoveries were to have any impact, they needed to be documented meticulously.
For the next month, Albert immersed himself in the preparation of research papers.
Drawing on his previous experience in genetics and evolutionary studies, he systematically wrote a paper for each Eeveelution, carefully detailing their development, behavioral traits, genetic markers, environmental influences, and psychic interactions.
Each paper referenced existing literature, aligning the findings with global standards while highlighting and foreshadowing the unprecedented nature of Sylveon's evolution.
Albert's workflow was precise.
Mornings were spent collating data from his instruments, noting weight, height, stats readings, and subtle behavioral nuances. Afternoons were devoted to analysis and writing, with evenings reserved for reviewing journal formatting standards, cross-referencing citations, and revising sections for clarity, accuracy, and scientific rigor.
Occasionally, Steven would slip into the underground lab, carrying a small snack or just leaning on the edge of the desk to watch Albert work.
"You look way too serious," Steven teased one afternoon, peering at a dense table of charts. "Maybe you should take a break, instead of scaring everyone with that frown."
Albert glanced up, a small smile tugging at his lips despite the focus in his eyes. "And you," he countered, "should be studying for school, instead of bothering me all day."
These moments, small as they were, reminded Albert of the joy that came with discovery—and the importance of balancing work with relaxation.
He found himself laughing softly at Steven's teasing, letting the warmth of companionship ease the intensity of his research.
Despite the intensity of his work, Albert maintained a quiet joy.
He frequently glanced at the Eeveelutions in the yard, seeing not just subjects of research, but partners in discovery.
The psychic bond he shared with them allowed him insights that went beyond numbers and charts, enriching his papers with observations that could only come from true understanding.
Each draft underwent several rounds of refinement. Albert cross-checked each statement according to the latest standards of the International Journal of Pokémon Evolution, ensuring methodology, terminology, and data presentation met or exceeded expectations.
He included graphs of type affinity, energy fluctuations during evolution, and the careful staging of environmental conditions, illustrating not just the outcome but the process of evolution itself.
After a month of relentless dedication, the papers were finally ready.
Albert prepared the final drafts, meticulously arranging them and preparing electronic submissions.
He looked to Joseph, who had monitored his progress with a quiet pride.
"Sir," Albert said, holding the stack of manuscripts, "I believe these are ready for submission."
Joseph examined them carefully before nodding. "Very well, Albert. Submit them with your verified account. The world must see what you've achieved, but be prepared for the possible aftermaths. However, don't worry, I and the Devon Corporation will be your sanctuary amidst the upcoming media storm."
Albert's hands steadied as he clicked "send" on the electronic submissions, a quiet satisfaction settling over him.
One by one, the research papers were sent to the International Journal of Pokémon Evolution.