Pokemon: A New Path-Chapter 493: Zapdos and Lightning Bun

Alliance Calendar Year 200, December 15th – Winter

That morning, the expedition team finally returned to the ranch after a year-long journey.

And with them came Jirachi, the Wish Pokémon, twinkling like a star against the snowy backdrop.

As Zapdos descended gracefully onto the ranch, Jirachi wasted no time—it happily dove straight into Naoki's arms with a gleeful cheer.

"Jira" "Naoki! We're back!"

At the sound of Jirachi's excited voice, Mew and Teddiursa also came bounding over. Naoki caught all three Pokémon in a playful hug, ruffling their fur with both hands until their fluff became a total mess.

"Did you have fun on your journey?"

Naoki smiled as he let them go.

Mew and Teddiursa shook out their fur, trying to smooth it back down after the chaotic snuggle session.

Meanwhile, Jirachi, being fur-free, simply beamed and chirped, "Jira" "It was amazing! I saw so many things and made so many new friends!"

Naoki chuckled, pleased to see them so happy.

However, noticing that they were covered in snow, he quickly ushered them inside. "Come in, warm up. I'll get you all some snacks."

The Pokémon didn't need to be told twice.

As soon as they stepped into the cozy living room, Naoki placed a platter of warm treats on the table.

The moment the snacks hit the surface, the four Pokémon pounced—munching away at lightning speed, stuffing their cheeks like greedy little chipmunks.

Watching them eat with such enthusiasm, Naoki couldn't help but smile.

"Oh, by the way," he casually added, "while you were gone, the World Tree grew even larger. And thanks to Giratina's power... it's now floating in the sky."

"Teddi" "WHAT?!"

"Mew?!"

Mew and Teddiursa froze mid-bite, their wide eyes filled with shock.

Naoki simply nodded, "You can check it out later."

Excited, the Pokémon instantly agreed, already looking forward to seeing it.

Standing nearby, Zapdos perked up at the mention of the World Tree.

That was the very reason it had come here in the first place.

Zapdos' body trembled with anticipation.

As it stood there in silent excitement, one of its golden feathers naturally drifted to the ground.

The ever-diligent brother Indeedee, who was handling cleaning duties, immediately noticed.

Without hesitation, he swept the feather into a dustpan and prepared to throw it away.

From where he was sitting, Naoki's sharp eyes caught the scene instantly.

His gaze flickered to the feather, and at a glance, information filled his mind:

[Zapdos Feather: A feather shed by Zapdos, carrying an immense charge of electricity. It may have culinary uses, but the effects are unknown.]

Wait—Zapdos' feather?!

"Wait! Stop!"

Naoki quickly called out, stopping the Indeedee in his tracks.

Indeedee froze in confusion, holding the feather over the trash bin with a blank expression.

At the same time, all the nearby Pokémon, including Jirachi, Mew, Teddiursa, and Zapdos, turned to look.

Zapdos immediately recognized the feather.

It wasn't surprising—after all, every year it naturally shed a number of feathers like this.

However, Naoki's reaction confused it.

Why did he care so much about something so... ordinary?

Seeing the puzzled look on Zapdos' face, Naoki quickly explained:

"This isn't just an ordinary feather. With my abilities, I can turn it into a dish with magical properties. If a Pokémon eats it, it could become stronger."

Zapdos: "…"

The Legendary Bird of Thunder stared at Naoki in pure disbelief.

…Eating its fallen feathers?

Ugh!

Just the thought of it sent a shiver down its spine.

Wasn't that basically like a human... eating their own hair or sweat?!

'DISGUSTING.'

Zapdos: "?"

Naoki, ever perceptive, immediately picked up on Zapdos' silent disgust.

…Yeah.

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If he put it into human terms, it really did sound like something gross.

Naoki awkwardly scratched his head as he tried to explain to Zapdos.

"I know it sounds a little weird, but trust me, the final product turns out great! Pawmot has eaten a Lightning Bun before, and look at how strong it is now!"

Zapdos blinked. Pawmot?

It definitely recognized that Pokémon—a fellow Electric-type with immense power, rivaling its own.

But… Naoki just said Pawmot had eaten a Lightning Bun before.

When exactly did that happen?

"Chiu?" Zapdos tilted its head suspiciously.

Naoki let out a sheepish laugh. "Back when the Hero Expedition Team first met you, Baby Bear found one of your fallen feathers and gave it to me."

Hearing this, Mew and Teddiursa perked up in realization.

"Teddi" "Oh! That's right!"

The memory of that moment flashed through their minds.

Zapdos: "..."

Forget it.

It wasn't going to eat those feather-infused buns anyway. Naoki could do whatever he wanted.

After traveling for an entire year, the Pokémon hadn't realized how exhausted they were.

But now that they were back at the familiar ranch, surrounded by safety and warmth, the fatigue sank in all at once.

Naoki noticed their sluggish movements and gently suggested,

"If you're tired, go ahead and rest. You've earned it."

The Pokémon didn't argue. One by one, they settled in to sleep.

Zapdos perched on the wooden floor, its wings slightly tucked in, as it drifted off into a light slumber.

Meanwhile, Mew, Teddiursa, and Jirachi all snuggled into Naoki's bed, curling up together as they instantly fell asleep, clinging to each other like plush toys.

Naoki chuckled at the heartwarming sight, then quietly stepped out of the room.

His next stop was the glass greenhouse, where Calyrex resided.

With its psychic abilities, Calyrex easily crushed the Zapdos feather into fine powder.

Naoki returned home holding a small jar of shimmering yellow powder.

He set aside a portion to store for later use—but the rest?

That was about to become the star ingredient in his latest recipe: Lightning Buns

Step by step, Naoki worked through the labor-intensive process.

The entire process took quite some time.

By the time the buns were finally ready, the Pokémon who had been asleep started waking up, one by one.

As Naoki placed five golden-yellow Lightning Buns onto the table, the Pokémon gathered around, their eyes widening in shock.

Zapdos and Mew, in particular, were visibly stunned.

They could sense it instantly. A powerful energy radiated from the buns.

Zapdos stared at the golden, glowing steamed buns in front of it, its sharp eyes filled with astonishment.

Was this really food made from its own feathers?!

Naoki inspected the dish's details through his special ability and read the description with satisfaction:

Lightning Bun (S+): A legendary dish infused with the power of a Legendary Pokémon's feathers. It is said that those who eat it can command the very forces of thunder.

Cooking Effect – Thunder God:

Grants the ability to harness lightning and control thunder at will, summoning colossal bolts of electricity from the heavens. Only effective for Electric-type Pokémon. Each Pokémon can only eat this once.

⚠ Warning: Do not consume indoors unless you want an impromptu thunderstorm!

Naoki smirked and turned toward Zapdos.

"So? Want to try it?"

"If you eat it, your power will grow even stronger!"

The temptation in his voice was undeniable.

Zapdos hesitated, its wings twitching.

It wanted to become stronger. But… the idea of eating something made from its own feathers was a little… unsettling.

At that moment, Teddiursa's curious voice broke the silence.

"Teddi?" (Can we get stronger too if we eat it?)

Naoki shook his head.

"Nope. This dish only works for Electric-type Pokémon like Zapdos. But if you just want to try the taste, go ahead."

Teddiursa thought for a moment before shaking its head firmly.

"Teddi!" (Forget it! There are only a few buns—let's save them for the Electric Pokémon who really need them!)

Mew and Jirachi nodded in agreement.

Naoki felt a swell of pride at how considerate they were. He ruffled their fur affectionately. Then, he looked back at Zapdos.

"What about you? Want to give it a shot?"

Zapdos: "..."

Its pride was still at war with its curiosity. But in the end, the temptation was too strong.

Fine! I would try it!

"Alright, let's do this outside!"

Naoki led the group out into the vast, snowy landscape of the ranch. Thick snowflakes drifted from the gray sky, covering the land in an unbroken sea of white.

Zapdos stood in the middle of the field. Without hesitation, it took a bite.

At first, nothing happened. Naoki narrowed his eyes.

But then—

BOOOOM!

A deafening thunderclap exploded in the sky. Dark storm clouds gathered above them in an instant, spiraling like a vortex of raw power.

Then, with a blinding flash, a colossal bolt of lightning came crashing down from the heavens, striking Zapdos directly.

A powerful shockwave erupted outward, sending waves of snow flying in every direction. The air vibrated with energy.

And at the center of it all, Zapdos stood, its body crackling with newfound power.

Its golden plumage glowed, lightning arcs dancing across its feathers.

It could feel it. Its power had changed. It had become stronger.

Much stronger.

Zapdos threw its head back and let out a piercing cry.

"Chiuuuuuuuu!"

A surge of raw electric energy burst from its body, shooting straight into the thunderclouds above. The moment the electricity collided with the storm,the clouds—completely shattered.

As the electric storm dissipated, the world gradually returned to its usual silent, snowy tranquility.

The skies and earth were once again painted in white, as if nothing had happened.

Except now—Zapdos' presence had completely changed. The aura surrounding the Legendary Pokémon had grown significantly stronger.

Naoki smiled. "Congratulations, Zapdos."

He could see it.

The transformation was more than just physical—Zapdos had reached a new level of power.

Even among the various Zapdos that existed in the world, there was one that reigned supreme—the Zapdos of Lightning Island, the one truly recognized as the God of Thunder.

All other Zapdos, while powerful, were not on the same level.

How strong is this Zapdos now, compared to the God of Thunder?

Naoki couldn't help but wonder.

Meanwhile, Zapdos was still basking in the afterglow of its newfound strength.

After returning to the warmth of the living room, Naoki glanced over and saw Zapdos staring intensely at the remaining four Lightning Buns on the table.

Naoki: "…"

'Wait a minute. Wasn't this the same Zapdos that had been hesitant about eati'ng a bun made from its own feathers just moments ago?!

Now, it looked tempted beyond reason.

Zapdos had completely forgotten its earlier reluctance.

Naoki sighed and shook his head. "Each Pokémon can only eat one. A second one won't have any effect."

Upon hearing this, Zapdos' face was immediately filled with regret.

If only it could eat another one! Then, as if a lightbulb flickered to life in its head—

Zapdos suddenly had an idea. If its feathers could be turned into food.

What about other legendary bird Pokemon? Could their feathers also be made into something similar?

Zapdos' sharp gaze flickered as it turned to Naoki and asked:

"Chiu?" (Do the feathers of other bird Pokemon have any effect?)

Naoki blinked, then quickly understood.

"If my guess is correct, yes." He nodded. "For example, Moltres' feathers can be used to make Flame Buns, while Articuno's feathers can create Frozen Buns."

A glint flashed in Zapdos' eyes.

It was decided.

Zapdos would go find Moltres and Articuno and 'borrow' some feathers.

Naoki, unaware of the mischievous plan hatching in Zapdos' mind, simply watched as the Legendary Pokémon smirked to itself.

After their rest, the Hero Expedition Team and Jirachi excitedly set off toward the World Tree.

It had been several months since they last saw it, and now, it had undergone an incredible transformation.

As they arrived, the once-isolated sanctuary had become a thriving, bustling community.

A grand guild hall stood at the center, housing several Pokémon. Tatsugiri had opened a restaurant with a stunning view of the sky.

Shuckle ran a cozy café, where Pokémon gathered to relax and enjoy warm drinks. Lilligant sold various items and supplies, and its shop was surrounded by flowerbeds.

Treecko and Arboliva managed a flourishing orchard, caring for the trees with dedication.

The once lonely World Tree had transformed into a lively sanctuary for Pokémon.

As the Hero Expedition Team took it all in, their eyes sparkled with excitement.

"Teddi!" (This is exactly the kind of adventure guild I dreamed of!)

Mew, who had been staring blankly in awe, suddenly snapped back to reality when Mewtwo appeared.

With a silent movement, Mewtwo teleported directly in front of them.

"Mew." Mewtwo nodded, a calm greeting.

"Miu!" Mew greeted back, happily floating in the air.

Even though they had been traveling for a long time, Mew had regularly kept in touch with Mewtwo through Rotom Phone.

Now, under Mewtwo's guidance, the returning Pokémon began exploring their new home.

Mewtwo led them through the different areas, explaining the functions of each new establishment:

Guild Headquarters – The center of all expedition missions and adventurer gatherings.

Farmlands & Mills – Producing food for Pokémon living in the sanctuary.

The Orchard – Home to various rare berries and herbs.

The Training Grounds – Where Pokémon could hone their skills and battle prowess.

The Item Shop – Managed by Lilligant, selling supplies and tools.

The Pokémon Hospital – A place of healing and recovery for injured Pokémon.

After exploring the entire World Tree, the Pokémon decided to stop by the tavern run by Meowth and Pikachu for some drinks.

As they sat together, sipping their berry juice, Mew and Baby Bear glanced around the lively scene.

Yet, something felt… off. Something was missing.

"Mew?" (What's wrong?)

Baby Bear furrowed its brows.

After a moment, Mew's eyes widened in realization.

It wasn't just Baby Bear—Mew also felt it.

But what exactly was missing?

"Teddi!" (It's Naoki!)

Of course! Without Naoki, it just didn't feel like home. They had returned to the World Tree, but Naoki was still at the ranch.

If only he could come live with them too. Mew and Baby Bear exchanged glances.

Then, without hesitation, they pulled out the Rotom Phone and dialed Naoki.

"Hello? What's wrong?" Naoki's voice came through the phone. "Did something happen to the World Tree?"

"Teddi!" (No, nothing bad happened!)

Baby Bear quickly shook its head. Then, looking hopeful, it asked:

"Teddi?" (Will Naoki come live at the World Tree with us?)

Naoki blinked in surprise. He hadn't expected them to ask that.

After a brief moment of thought, he smiled. "Of course, but… not right now."

"Mew?" (Then when?) Mew asked curiously.

Naoki chuckled. "Maybe in a few decades."

By then, they would all be older. The familiar faces of the world would gradually fade away. Perhaps by that time, if he had children, he would pass the ranch down to them.

And then, he would finally move to the World Tree, spending his days with Iono, Koraidon, and Bellibolt.

Even if his body aged, it wouldn't matter. He could remain there as a spirit.

Wouldn't that make him something like a 'Ghost-type Pokémon'?

As long as he didn't enter the Spirit World for reincarnation, he could live on forever, surrounded by his Pokémon family.

That was his plan. That way, he wouldn't have to worry about lifespans. He could stay by Koraidon's side, forever.

Meanwhile, in Brewington City.

Inside a spacious mansion, Iono's parents sat together in the living room.

Her father, holding a newspaper, glanced at his daughter with mild curiosity.

"Our daughter even changed her hairstyle. She really seems to be growing up." He sighed.

But her mother—who had a keen eye for detail—noticed something else. She narrowed her eyes. "…Are you in love?"

"Huh?!" Iono's father looked up in shock.

Iono, on the other hand, grinned without hesitation. "He's a really great person!"

Her mother studied her for a moment. "Is it the same person from before?"

Iono didn't deny it. She simply nodded.

At that, both parents fell silent. It was their daughter's first love.

After a pause, her mother finally spoke. "I don't have much advice to give you, but there's something I once heard from a very wise person."

Iono tilted her head. "What is it?"

Her mother looked at her seriously.

"Love is a two-way street. It requires both people to walk toward each other. Only when two people are willing to grow together can they truly stay together."

She folded her arms. "If only one person is making all the effort, while the other simply stands still, then they are not truly meant to be."

Iono blinked. "…What are you trying to say?"

Her mother sighed. "Relationships require effort from both sides. If you want it to last, your lives will need to merge together over time. Sometimes, you have to change for each other."

Iono pouted. "It's not that dramatic, is it?"

Just then, her Rotom Phone buzzed.

She checked it—a message from Naoki.

[Naoki: Bring your Pokémon to the ranch. I have a gift for you!]

A gift?

Iono's eyes lit up.

She immediately jumped up and ran toward her room to make a call.

Meanwhile, her parents exchanged helpless glances.

Her father, suddenly remembering something, pulled out his own phone and did a quick search.

Soon, he found it.

[Naoki Ranch]

"This is the shop she asked us to buy from, isn't it?" He muttered.

His wife frowned. "…What are you planning?"

Her husband set the phone down with a determined expression. "We're going to see what kind of person this boy really is."

"You want to spy on him?"

"No, no, of course not," he said confidently. "I'll just… test him a little."

His wife sighed. "And how exactly do you plan to 'test' him?"

Her husband smirked. "With a Pokémon battle, of course."

His hands clenched into fists. "Battles reveal a person's true nature. If he doesn't have the courage to face me, then he's not worthy of my daughter!"

He closed his eyes, reminiscing. "Back in my day, I was strong enough to challenge gym leaders. My Pokémon have only grown stronger since then."

Then, he declared: "If he wants my approval—he'll have to defeat me in battle!"

...

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