Pokémon: Farm Story

After finishing its morning exercise, Togepi walked home with a cheerful bounce in its step, occasionally passing other Pokémon also training in the early hours.

Since a few days ago, the farm had started receiving visits from challengers. While it wasn't an official gym, it had become a popular spot for trainers to check out. The scenic views combined with the opportunity for battles made it a worthwhile destination.

To accommodate the influx, Natsume had designated a plot of land at the farm's edge as a battle arena. Beyond just battles, he occasionally sold Pokéblocks, and to his surprise, the farm was already turning a profit. It had only been about a month since he took over the farm, and yet, things were running smoothly.

Natsume hadn't bothered with detailed accounting; as long as there was enough money to live comfortably, that was all that mattered. If funds ever ran short, he could always make and sell more Pokéblocks.

A lifestyle reminiscent of Yoshihiro Togashi's mantra: "When I run out of money, I'll just draw manga again." (Except Togashi swaps drawing for playing Mahjong...)

---

"Togi!"

Returning to the house, Togepi found Natsume already awake. From the workshop came the fragrant aroma of berries. The scent alone was enough to make anyone feel relaxed and content.

It was worth noting that the farm's environment had changed subtly due to Natsume frequently using his Verdant Power to cultivate ingredients like Berries. The residual energy not only boosted the vitality of every plant but also made the air exceptionally fresh.

Visitors staying at the farm might even find themselves gradually recovering from minor ailments. Similarly, the Pokémon living on the farm were steadily growing stronger.

Just yesterday, Steenee had secretly told Togepi it was close to evolving.

"Lucky for you," Togepi thought enviously, tugging the little blanket tucked into the crack of its eggshell. It waddled determinedly toward the Pokéblock workshop.

Whenever Natsume made Pokéblocks, he would cut small pieces for everyone to sample. This always drew Pokémon to gather around and watch eagerly.

With some effort, Togepi pushed the door open and obediently climbed onto a small stool nearby, watching Natsume intently. At the workstation, Natsume was busy making Pokéblocks, assisted by Lopunny.

In recent days, Lopunny had taken over the helper role from Butterfree, who had decided to focus on improving its skills. Apparently, it had even sought tutoring from Zorua.

Yes, Zorua—the one every Pokémon on the farm knew was unusual.

But since Natsume hadn't raised any concerns, the others were content to train with Zorua and learn its many tricks.

"Lopunny!"

"Really? I'll check it out later."

"Lopunny, lop!"

"That's great! We'll have our own power source soon!"

As Natsume chatted casually with Lopunny, she informed him about new arrivals at the farm. Last night, a flock of Pidgey had settled near the berry grove, and the previously empty warehouse now seemed to host some Electric-type Pokémon.

Natsume wasn't surprised.

Given the unusually high vitality of the farm, it was inevitable that wild Pokémon would be drawn to it. Without Mightyena's patrols or Persian's oversight, they might have already had troublemakers barging in.

In fact, that had already happened a few times.

Persian's sentiment was clear: "I'm not targeting anyone in particular; I'm just saying all of you are garbage."

"Togepi, want a taste?"

Cutting a small piece from the batch, Natsume cooled it with a quick blow before handing it to Togepi.

Sampling aside, it was mostly an excuse for him to spoil the Pokémon. Any pet owner would agree that feeding their companions is a deeply satisfying experience—provided said pet isn't a picky eater.

"Togi!"

Taking the piece, Togepi mimicked Natsume, blowing on it briefly before popping it into its mouth. A burst of rich sweetness spread across its tongue, and it couldn't help but squint its eyes in delight. Its little feet swung happily, mirroring its mood.

"Togi!"

"No more for now. Breakfast is coming up."

"Togi…"

"Not even a small piece. Lopunny, keep an eye on Togepi and make sure it doesn't sneak any."

Natsume set the freshly made Pokéblocks aside to cool before lifting Togepi and placing it on the living room sofa.

Following him out, Lopunny nodded in understanding, her kind smile shifting to a blank, intimidating stare as she turned to face Togepi.

"Don't even think about it."

Togepi froze under her gaze, then obediently sat on the sofa, focusing on the TV.

As a Buneary, Lopunny had often been the target of Togepi's mischief. But after evolving, her strength had skyrocketed, and she could always catch Togepi in the act.

Over time, she became Togepi's natural nemesis.

Satisfied with Togepi's behavior, Lopunny returned to assist Natsume. The Pokéblocks were an integral part of his strategy when catching Pokémon.

The method might be cliché, but it was undeniably effective—akin to a college freshman gifting the dormmates new gadgets and saying, "If you don't like it, feel free to sell it for cash. Oh, and I'll take care of meals for the next four years."

Who could resist such an offer?

"Lopunny!"

Handing Natsume his bag of Pokéblocks and Poké Balls, Lopunny stood at the door like a doting housewife seeing him off.

"Thanks for holding down the fort, Lopunny."

"Lopunny."

With a wave, Natsume headed toward the grove, accompanied by Corvisquire and Shiny Furret.

The farm had two berry groves: one for Pecha Berries and the other for Oran Berries. The latter was tended to by the Pancham family and Ursaring.

As Natsume approached the Oran grove, a dazzling golden light caught his eye.

"Wait a second… is that a Shiny Pidgeotto?!"

*********************************************

Read advanced chapters ahead of everyone else on my Patreon.

p@treon/GodDragcell