Chapter 22: The Abandoned Power Plant

After the light faded, what appeared before Xia You’s eyes was a new form of Eevee with a yellow body, covered in lightning-like sharp spikes—Thunder Eevee!

Thunder Eevee had slender limbs and small paws, a ring of white fur around its neck, and its entire body was studded with needle-like spikes resembling lightning rods. Just by looking at it, one could feel the vibrant energy and electricity coursing within.

Brushing aside a few curious Pokémon gathered nearby, Xia You quickly pulled out the Pokédex to look up information on Thunder Eevee.

Pokédex: “Beep. Thunder Eevee, the Electric Pokémon. Evolved using a Thunder Stone. When startled, its fur stands on end like needles to intimidate foes. It excels in electric-type moves, absorbing negative ions from the air and sometimes releasing high-voltage shocks of about 10,000 volts. It possesses remarkable speed and is sometimes employed as a guard for other Pokémon in certain regions.”

“That’s great.” Xia You smiled in satisfaction as he stroked Thunder Eevee’s sharp spikes. “Thunder Eevee, this new form suits you perfectly.”

...

Morning.

Xia You left the Sakuragi Research Institute and took the winding mountain road, slowly making his way into the deep mountains bordering with Fallen Leaf City.

After a long walk, the terrain rose steadily, buildings grew sparse, replaced by thick, robust trees and rows of wind turbines rotating intermittently on the hillsides.

Amid the mountains stood an old power plant built of red bricks and concrete. Though moss had crept into its cracks and some windowpanes were shattered, the flickers of electricity on the power lines and the humming of machinery inside indicated it was not entirely abandoned. Occasionally, workers came to perform minimal maintenance.

The surroundings were quiet except for the rustle of a gentle breeze—no signs of disturbance or wild Pokémon activity.

Approaching the power plant, Xia You found the gate locked with a rusty padlock. However, a nearby window was ajar, glass shattered on the ground beneath. After ensuring no one was around, he slipped inside through the window.

Inside, the power plant was like a maze—dimly lit by orange emergency lights, cloaked in silence.

Taking out his flashlight, Xia You peeled off the tape and switched it on, illuminating the cluttered interior and revealing the plant’s labyrinthine layout.

Soft footsteps echoed lightly in the corridors as Xia You searched carefully, opening several doors but finding nothing unusual.

...

“Did you notice anything strange?” Xia You asked.

Ralts and the other Pokémon gently shook their heads.

Nothing?

Could it really be just equipment degradation?

Pondering, Xia You stroked his chin and said, “Since we’re here, let’s split up and search thoroughly—maybe we’ll find something.”

Before he finished, a short, clear call echoed from deep within the plant. Though fleeting, Xia You’s keen ears caught it.

“What was that sound?”

He listened intently but heard no second call. He glanced at his Pokémon, who nodded—they had heard it too.

“It seems to be coming from over there. Let’s go!”

Leading his Pokémon, Xia You hurried along twisting corridors until they reached a slightly open door. Through the gap, sunlight poured in from the glass roof, illuminating the room. The humming of generators confirmed this was the plant’s heart—the main power room.

What surprised Xia You even more was the sight inside: a massive, golden bird Pokémon was siphoning electricity continuously from a generator!

Recognizing its distinctive shape and majestic bearing, Xia You’s heart leapt despite having encountered many Pokémon before.

It was none other than the legendary Pokémon—Zapdos!

Zapdos is a rare legendary bird Pokémon, primarily golden yellow, with wings and tail feathers tipped with sharp spikes. Its piercing eyes sat above a long, orange, pointed beak. Known for controlling lightning and weather, it is often called the Thunder God!

What should he do now?

Xia You glanced back at his Pokémon, all eyes fixed on him, awaiting orders. He clenched his fists.

This was a divine opportunity. Since fate had brought it to him, he would capture it no matter what!

But with his current team, capturing Zapdos would not be easy.

Zapdos is Electric and Flying type. Xia You had no Pokémon that could counter those types effectively. Furthermore, Zapdos could deal double damage to his Squirtle.

Yet no matter how difficult, Xia You refused to miss this chance.

“Ralts, Ivysaur, Thunder Eevee, Squirtle, Charmander—this is a formidable opponent. None of you can face it alone, so don’t hold back. Attack together and defeat it!”

His Pokémon called out in unison. Suddenly, the power room door was flung open. Thunder Eevee dashed forward, followed by the others, encircling Zapdos.

Interrupted while feeding, the enraged Zapdos snarled at the pesky intruders—just a group of unevolved low-level Pokémon. It was thoroughly annoyed.

With a roar, it flapped its wings, unleashing a searing electric current sweeping the room.

It sought to use its intimidating aura to drive away these invaders!

Xia You stepped boldly into the power room, shouting, “Zapdos, for your freedom, let’s battle with all we’ve got!”

Zapdos arrogantly looked down on Xia You, clearly dismissing him.

“In that case, I’ll take that as a yes.” Xia You drew his Poké Balls, tossing them lightly. “Ralts, use Magical Leaf! Ivysaur, use Razor Leaf! Charmander, use Ember! Squirtle, use Water Gun! Everyone, attack together!”

At his command, various moves surged at Zapdos from all sides, marking the start of an epic battle to capture the legendary Zapdos!