In this barren wasteland where rocky desert stretched as far as the eye could see, a towering structure stood defiantly among the jagged cliffs. Below it, a massive reinforced wall encircled the entire facility, protecting the valuable equipment within. This was the Kalos Power Plant, responsible for supplying electricity to all of Lumiose City. However, the outdated technology used in this facility meant its energy output was far weaker than more modern plants. The generators had to operate nonstop just to meet the demands of a metropolis as large as Lumiose.
The power plant's operations created a unique electromagnetic field that permeated the surrounding wilderness. This magnetic energy had a peculiar effect on certain Pokémon, allowing them to evolve under its influence. For instance:
Magneton could evolve into Magnezone.
Nosepass could evolve into Probopass.
Charjabug, native to the Alola region, could evolve into Vikavolt.
These Pokémon required exposure to the magnetic field while also meeting specific level requirements before evolution could occur.
Aoki observed the power plant from a distance with his team but chose not to approach. Since the facility had not yet been upgraded, it was unlikely to be targeted by Team Flare for their ultimate weapon. After a brief survey, Aoki and his Pokémon continued their journey toward Cyllage City.
The trek through the wilds was far from easy. Wild Pokémon frequently attacked, either out of territorial instinct or sheer aggression. The harsh environment meant only the strongest Pokémon thrived here, making it an ideal training ground for Aoki's team.
Pupitar and Lairon felt particularly at home in this rugged terrain. Over the course of five days, Aoki deliberately sought out areas with high concentrations of wild Pokémon to maximize training opportunities. Some battles proved unexpectedly difficult, leaving Combusken and Pupitar with significant injuries. However, the experience gained was well worth the struggle.
By the time they exited the wilderness, the team's strength had grown considerably:
Pupitar rose from Level 34 to Level 37.
Lairon and Combusken both jumped from Level 32 to Level 35.
While Lairon's progress was steady, Combusken's evolution into Blaziken was now within reach. Yet, despite reaching Level 35, further growth seemed blocked by an invisible barrier. Frustration gnawed at Combusken, but Aoki reassured him:
"Evolution is a gradual process. Forcing it will only backfire."
For the final day of travel, Combusken refrained from battling altogether, instead observing Lairon and Pupitar's fights with calm focus. Gradually, his impatience faded, replaced by a newfound clarity. Follow current ɴᴏᴠᴇʟs on novel✶fire.net
In the distance, the lush green slopes of Cyllage City came into view—a breathtaking coastal town nestled between mountains and sea, renowned for its natural beauty. Though it appeared close, the remaining journey would still take several hours.
After another victorious battle, Aoki led his team to a sheltered spot for lunch. Combusken sat beside him, deep in thought.
Aoki smiled and patted his head. "There's an old saying: 'Haste makes waste.' The more desperately you want something, the harder it becomes to achieve. When you relax and let go, that's when evolution will come."
Combusken remained silent, but his eyes flickered with understanding.
Seeing this, Aoki continued, "Strength isn't just about raw power. Technique matters just as much." He picked up a rock and a leaf. "Watch. The rock is heavy, so when I throw it, it flies far. But the leaf? No matter how hard I try, it just flutters down."
Combusken stared as the rock soared while the leaf drifted aimlessly.
"Now imagine punching a stone—it shatters. But if you punch cloth, your fist just goes through without impact. Sometimes, brute force isn't the answer."
Combusken's eyes widened. Aoki's words were sinking in.
"Evolution is the same. It's not something you can rush. Maybe if you look at it differently…"
Suddenly, flames erupted from Combusken's body, forcing Aoki to leap back. Combusken stared at his blazing fists in awe.
"See?" Aoki grinned. "Change your perspective, and the path becomes clear."
"Now—evolve, Blaziken!"