[Substitute].
It used type energy to create a false body that could block an opponent's moves.
Normally, that was all it did.
But Dr. Akihabara's version of [Substitute] was different. It incorporated Porygon2's own data stream into the type energy, then split that data off and infused it into the new body, creating a genuine second self rather than a substitute. That second self could use moves normally—
"What part of that is normal...?"
Baimu was speechless. Only Dr. Akihabara, the creator of a virtual Pokémon, could come up with another groundbreaking technology in a world already packed with futuristic inventions.
"The doctor says this cloning technology is still a prototype, unlike the finished versions of Sharpen, Conversion, and Conversion 2. It only works on evolved Porygon2. Ordinary Porygon can't split their own data streams successfully, and even if they barely manage it... they're liable to lose parts of their databases."
Porygon2 spoke in an emotionless mechanical voice.
What it said was terrifying.
A Porygon's database contained its memories, moves, subconscious, and more. If any of that went missing, it might suddenly ask something horrifying like, "Who are you, mister?"
Baimu couldn't help asking, "Are you sure Porygon2 won't have that problem? The doctor's message has me a little nervous."
"In theory, no. The doctor has already had Unit One and every other Porygon2 use it successfully."
Porygon2 replied from inside the phone, "Porygon2 can make perfect backups of their internal databases, so there's no need to worry about losing information when the data stream splits. That principle is also part of what makes creating a second self possible."
"In theory..."
He murmured the words under his breath.
The value of this Special Substitute was obvious. It was a broken move that could turn a Single Battle into a Double