Chapter 21: The Third Badge and Dual Evolution

"Bulbasaur, use Sleep Powder!"

After taking several punches, it found an opening, shook its flower bud, and instantly released countless phosphorescent pollen. The pollen drifted without wind, and within a single breath, it covered nearly half the battlefield.

Ma Zhishi’s expression shifted slightly as he shouted urgently, "Raichu, quickly dodge!"

However, Raichu was too close and caught completely off guard. It was doused in the Sleep Powder, instantly overwhelmed by a strong drowsiness it couldn’t resist. Staggering, it collapsed to the ground and soon fell into a deep sleep.

"Raichu! Wake up, hurry!"

Despite Ma Zhishi’s desperate calls, Raichu slept soundly, utterly unresponsive to his voice.

“It’s all over now,” Xia You gave the final command to Bulbasaur. “Use Razor Leaf!”

Bulbasaur stepped before Raichu, towering over it. Razor Leaf formed above its head and then struck Raichu repeatedly and precisely.

This attack dealt full damage instantly.

Raichu, still unable to awaken from sleep, immediately slipped into unconsciousness.

With a flash of blue light, Ma Zhishi withdrew Raichu into its Poké Ball.

Just then, a radiant glow enveloped Bulbasaur. Moments later, a new form—Ivysaur—appeared in the arena.

Bulbasaur had evolved into Ivysaur?

For Xia You, this was an unexpected delight.

In appearance, Ivysaur showed little drastic change from Bulbasaur, except its colors deepened, and alongside the flower bud on its back, four large, banana-shaped green leaves had sprouted.

Pokédex entry: “Ivysaur, the Seed Pokémon, Grass/Poison type, evolved from Bulbasaur. The more sunlight it absorbs, the more energetic it becomes. When the bud on its back gathers enough nutrients, it will bloom into a large flower.”

“Well done,” Ma Zhishi approached Xia You slowly. Though defeated, there was no displeasure on his face. “Not only did you beat me, but your Pokémon evolved—from a baby into a formidable fighter!”

At that moment, Xia Chun stepped down from the stands and joined Xia You. Her expression was even more joyful than Xia You’s, but out of respect for those present, she said nothing, merely crouching to gently stroke Ralts and Ivysaur in quiet celebration.

Ma Zhishi reached into his pocket and produced a badge, holding it out to Xia You.

“This Orange Badge is your well-earned reward. Please accept it.”

The badge resembled an orange sun, radiating a yellow glow.

Xia You took the badge, then turned to leave with Xia Chun. Just as they reached the door, Ma Zhishi suddenly called out once more.

“Wait a moment. I have one more thing for you.”

He pulled a sparkling stone from his pocket and tossed it toward Xia You.

The stone traced a perfect arc in the air but then hovered steadily just before reaching Xia You.

Ralts was using telekinesis to hold it!

As a fiercely loyal Pokémon to its trainer, it would never let something unfamiliar approach Xia You unguarded.

Xia You examined the stone. It gleamed like a radiant green gem, and beneath the translucent surface, a clear lightning-shaped symbol was visible.

A Thunder Stone?

Xia You looked at Ma Zhishi in confusion, unsure what he meant.

“Take it,” Ma Zhishi smiled. “As a trainer I respect, I personally gift you this Thunder Stone.”

Xia You was momentarily stunned, then beamed brightly in gratitude.

“Thanks! I won’t refuse such a generous gift!”

As he reached out, the stone gently settled into his palm.

...

Outside, night had fully descended. After leaving the Withered Leaf Gym, Xia You and Xia Chun followed the brightly lit street back to the Sakuragi Research Institute.

Inside, Professor Sakuragi was still at his computer, busy with something. Hearing of Xia You’s successful challenge, he was delighted, and upon learning Xia Chun had accompanied him, he was visibly surprised.

“I never imagined, Xia Chun, that you would one day enjoy Pokémon battles.”

“Watching it firsthand, I realized how interesting the battles between Pokémon can be,” Xia Chun replied, glancing at Xia You. Without his invitation, she doubted she would have ever willingly attended a Pokémon battle.

Seeing the late hour, Xia You yawned, preparing to say goodbye and return to the dormitory. But Professor Sakuragi stopped him.

“By the way, Xia You, if you’re available tomorrow, I’d like you to visit the nearby power plant.”

“The power plant?” Xia You asked, surprised. “What’s wrong there?”

Professor Sakuragi explained, “The Sakuragi Institute’s electricity comes from a remote, unmanned power plant. Though it’s been idle for years, its systems have remained operational. Recently, however, the voltage has become unstable, causing frequent power outages that disrupt our research. I suspect some Electric-type Pokémon might have wandered in.”

“An unmanned power plant…” Xia You nodded. “No problem. I’ll take care of it.”

Late at night in the Sakuragi Institute dormitory.

After a simple hot shower, Xia You lay shirtless on the soft bed.

Bright light illuminated the deep teal wallpaper, lending a warm atmosphere to the room. The dorm was well-equipped—wardrobe, bookshelf, desk, private bathroom—all complete, with even a plush sofa beside the bed.

His Pokémon played nearby. Xia You picked up the Thunder Stone gifted by Ma Zhishi earlier and pondered it thoughtfully, then beckoned Eevee over.

“Eevee, have you thought about which evolution you want to pursue?”

Eevee tilted its head innocently, gazing at him.

Turning the Thunder Stone over in his hand, Xia You continued, “You’re a bit impatient, but your speed is excellent. I think evolving into Jolteon would suit your strengths perfectly! But if you prefer another evolution, I’ll respect your choice.”

Eevee gave a soft call, eyes fixed on the Thunder Stone as if deep in thought. After a pause, it slowly approached and gently pressed its forehead against the stone.

Then, accompanied by the hum of electricity, a dazzling flash of electric light suddenly illuminated the dormitory!