Stepping out of Viridian Forest, warm sunlight and the lively atmosphere unique to a town greeted him at once. Neatly arranged streets, cozy homes, and people walking alongside their Pokémon formed the most vivid everyday scene of the Kanto region. Ren raised a hand to lightly touch the Poké Ball at his waist, sensing Shuppet's calm emotions within. Viridian Power flowed quietly between them—gentle and enduring.
This was Viridian City, an important town connecting the forest to the outside world, and the first stop for new Trainers setting out on their journey. After straightening his clothes, Ren prepared to head to the Pokémon Center to rest when the system's soft voice sounded in his mind.
[Ding—Side Mission Triggered: Protect the Peace of Viridian City]
[Mission Objective: Stop Team Rocket from oppressing residents and Pokémon, and safeguard local peace]
[Mission Reward: Basic Pokémon Food ×5, Special Energy Fragment ×1]
As the prompt faded, sharp shouting and commotion erupted from the nearby fountain plaza. Looking over, Ren saw three arrogant figures surrounding an elderly man with white hair. At his feet, a Rattata trembled in fear.
Team Rocket.
Jessie stood with her hands on her hips, shouting arrogantly. James chimed in with threats, while Meowth stood on tiptoe, stirring up trouble. The three made it clear—they intended to forcibly take the old man's Pokémon.
The surrounding townspeople were filled with anger but dared not act. Ordinary residents had no way to stand against the notorious Team Rocket.
Ren stepped forward calmly, his voice steady and firm.
"Let him go."
Jessie turned and sized up the simply dressed boy before sneering. "Where did this brat come from? You think you can stop Team Rocket?"
James immediately raised his voice in threat, and Meowth followed with taunts. Ren's expression remained unchanged as his fingers brushed his Poké Ball.
"Shuppet, come out."
A flash of red light.
The small, deep-blue Pokémon landed steadily on the ground, its red eyes bright and unwavering, showing not a trace of fear. After being healed and restored by Viridian Power, Shuppet was already in peak condition, quietly standing in front of Ren.
James let out a disdainful laugh and threw his Poké Ball. "Ekans, take care of it!"
The purple serpent emerged, its fangs glinting coldly as it lunged toward Shuppet. Ren's commands were clear and composed.
"Dodge. Use Astonish—then follow with Shadow Claw."
Shuppet moved like a drifting shadow, easily evading the attack. A sudden psychic shock struck Ekans, leaving it frozen in fear. Immediately after, a claw of dark ghostly energy slashed down.
Ekans let out a cry and collapsed, losing its ability to battle.
Jessie's expression changed drastically as she hurriedly sent out Koffing. But Ren gave her no chance.
"Night Shade."
A sphere of dark energy shot forward with precision, striking Koffing directly. It fell at once, unable to continue.
In mere moments, both of Team Rocket's Pokémon were defeated.
The three of them stared at each other in disbelief. Under Ren's calm gaze, panic overtook them completely. With miserable cries, they fled in utter disarray, and the plaza quickly returned to peace.
[Ding—Mission "Protect the Peace of Viridian City" Completed]
[Rewards Granted: Basic Pokémon Food ×5, Special Energy Fragment ×1]
The elderly man stepped forward repeatedly expressing his gratitude, while the surrounding residents looked on with admiration. Ren simply nodded gently in response before carrying Shuppet into the nearby Pokémon Center.
Warm yellow lights filled the space, soft and welcoming. Nurse Joy moved about with gentle efficiency. This was the most reassuring place for every Trainer.
After entrusting Shuppet to Nurse Joy for a routine check, Ren walked over to the resource section of the lobby. He knew that if he wanted to accompany his Pokémon for the long journey ahead, system-provided food alone would never be enough.
The most essential Pokémon food in this world—
Pokéblocks.
He had no knowledge of how to make them. Everything would have to start from the beginning.
[Ding—Side Mission Triggered: Learn Pokéblock Production]
[Mission Objective: Successfully learn and create your first basic Pokéblock]
[Mission Reward: Basic Berry Set ×1, Exclusive Crafting Tools ×1, Special Energy Fragment ×1]
The system prompt sounded at just the right moment. Ren picked up Beginner Trainer: Basic Pokéblock Guide and began reading quietly. Ingredient selection, proportions, compression, shaping—he carefully memorized every step.
Before long, Nurse Joy returned with a fully recovered Shuppet. Upon hearing that Ren wanted to learn how to make Pokéblocks, she immediately prepared a workstation and basic materials for him with enthusiasm.
Shuppet curiously clung to the edge of the table, its large red eyes fixed on its Trainer's every move.
Following the steps in the guide, Ren carefully washed the Berries, cut them evenly, and placed them into the machine, adjusting the settings. His movements weren't particularly skilled yet, but they were steady and precise.
As the machine hummed softly, a pale golden Pokéblock gradually took shape, releasing a sweet, pleasant aroma.
This was the very first Pokéblock he had made with his own hands.
It wasn't perfect—but it was filled with sincerity.
Drawn by the scent, Shuppet immediately took a bite. Its eyes lit up at once. It rubbed affectionately against Ren's fingers, letting out soft, content cries, its closeness unmistakable.
Watching the little Pokémon's happiness, a warm feeling rose in Ren's heart.
He had taken his first step in learning Pokéblock crafting—and through this handmade meal, his bond with Shuppet grew even deeper.
[Ding—Mission "Learn Pokéblock Production" Completed]
[Rewards Granted: Basic Berry Set ×1, Exclusive Crafting Tools ×1, Special Energy Fragment ×1]
Ren stored away the tools and Berries, then gently stroked Shuppet's head. His voice was soft yet resolute.
"Are you ready? Next, we're heading to Pewter City."
The true path of a Trainer had only just begun.