Chapter 91: Unlocking Advanced Recipes

After dinner, with the sky not yet fully dark, Andrew looked at the food sent by Gabe and said to Arven:

"Arven, let's give this food to the wild Pokémon."

Since the Veluza aren't around today, the food would go to waste if left here.

Arven responded with enthusiasm, "Sure! Let's do it!"

Andrew said, "Then let's go."

So, Andrew and Munchlax carried the box of food outside with the rest of the group.

The upper level of Area Zero features different places, each inhabited by various Pokémon.

For example, the grassland has Raichu, Venomoth, Jumpluff, Girafarig, and Espeon…

By the water, you can find Golduck, Vaporeon, Masquerain, and Flamigo… and even rare Pokémon like Dragapult and Dreepy.

The rocky zone has Donphan, Phanpy, Gogoat, Hawlucha, and Lycanroc…

In the caves, there are Diglett, Sneasel, Sableye, and Umbreon… as well as rare Pokémon like Garchomp and Gible.

Trainers visiting here would likely be thrilled.

Andrew and the others reached the grassland and saw several Pichu, Pikachu, and Raichu playing together.

When the Raichu saw Andrew and the others approaching, they immediately quieted down, shielding the Pichu and Pikachu behind them and eyeing Andrew with cautious glances.

Andrew opened the box, took out a box of rice balls, and said in a soothing voice, "Don't be afraid; we just want to give you some food."

The Raichu didn't move closer, but the Pichu and Pikachu stared at the rice balls in Andrew's hands, their mouths watering.

The food looked irresistible.

"Doll~"

"Doll~"

At this moment, two Dolliv picked up a rice ball each from the box and gently called out to the Pichu and Pikachu.

One Pichu couldn't resist, cautiously running forward to quickly grab a rice ball from the Dolliv and then awkwardly carrying it away.

Its tiny body was almost the size of the rice ball, wobbling as it carried it in its arms, its little behind swaying adorably.

Once it reached what it deemed a safe distance, the Pichu eagerly took a bite.

*(ˊˋ*)* "Pii~~" So delicious!

The flavor of the rice ball instantly captivated it.

The Treasure Eatery is renowned in Paldea for a reason; Andrew's cooking isn't necessarily better than theirs.

The researchers' special fondness for Andrew's cooking comes mainly from their routine of eating at the Treasure Eatery. The novelty of fresh new dishes excites them.

Of course, Andrew's cooking being good is a given.

"Pii~~"

The Pichu, clutching the rice ball, waved energetically at its companions, excitedly describing the rice ball's deliciousness.

Following the first Pichu's lead, the other Pichu and Pikachu gathered around Andrew, reaching out for more food. The Raichu couldn't stop them and eventually joined in.

"Everyone, take turns, don't rush."

Andrew, Arven, and the Pokémon took turns handing out the food.

Attracted by the Pichu and Pikachu, soon Jumpluff, Girafarig, Corviknight, and even a rare wild Espeon and Volcarona gathered around Andrew.

In no time, the food was all given out, and the Pokémon were full and satisfied.

"Pawmi~"

At that moment, a Pawmi hurried over, eagerly extending its hand towards Andrew.

"You want some too?" Andrew asked.

"Paw~mi~"

Pawmi nodded eagerly.

"But the food is all gone!" Andrew turned the box to show it was empty.

=(*) "Mi?"

Pawmi was dismayed. It had heard there was tasty food here and rushed over, only to arrive too late.

Pawmi curled up in disappointment, its expression as if it might dissolve away with the wind.

Andrew patted its head and said, "It's okay, don't be sad. Here, I have something for you."

With that, Andrew pulled out a tomato from the system backpack and gave it to Pawmi.

"Pawmi!!!"

Seeing the tomato, Pawmi's sadness turned to joy. It eagerly hugged the large, round tomato and took a bite. The sweet and tangy taste immediately pleased its palate.

"Mi~" So happy!

After quickly finishing the tomato, Pawmi extended its hand to Andrew again.

"Still want more?" Andrew asked.

"Pawmi~"

Pawmi nodded enthusiastically, its mouth glistening and eyes full of anticipation.

"You're quite the appetite," Andrew said, taking out two cucumbers for it.

"Mi!!!"

Seeing the new items, Pawmi embraced them excitedly.

Crunch~ Crunch~~

It munched on the cucumbers quickly like a little hamster, its cheeks puffed out cutely.

After finishing the cucumbers, Pawmi lay back on the grass, its belly full and content.

The sky had darkened, but with Volcarona nearby, casting a warm and bright light, there was no fear of the dark.

The Research Station, where the researchers worked, lacked entertainment facilities. Since Andrew and Arven didn't want to return too early, they decided to lie on the grass and chat, enjoying the peaceful evening.

Andrew rested his head on Munchlax's belly, holding a Komala in his arms, while Diancie and Drizzile rested on the other side of Munchlax's belly.

Espathra lay on the ground with its eyes closed, while Arven leaned against it, with Maschiff's chin resting on his lap.

Two Dolliv chased each other through the grass, playing hide-and-seek, their laughter like bells ringing in the night sky.

Two Charcadet rode on Oinkologne, playing at being pig knights with wooden sticks, their energy seemingly endless.

"Espeon~"

Espeon yawned lazily, moved closer to Volcarona, and then lay down on the grass, closing its eyes for a nap. It enjoyed the warmth from Volcarona.

Andrew asked, "Arven, have you thought about what you want to do in the future? Become a trainer, or follow in the footsteps of the professors and pursue academic research?"

Arven fell silent, and after a long pause, said quietly, "Can I not be a trainer? I don't want to be a scientist either."

Andrew nodded, "Of course, life isn't limited to one choice. I'm not a trainer myself, but I'm very happy."

Andrew's words inspired Arven, who suddenly sat up, eyes bright with hope and excitement.

"I want to be a chef! A chef as amazing as you, Big brother Andrew! And make dishes that make both people and Pokémon smile!"

Andrew also sat up, encouragingly saying, "That's a wonderful goal; you can definitely achieve it!" What a pure and simple dream.

Arven then looked worried, "Do you think my parents will be against me becoming a chef?"

Just as Andrew was about to speak, Maschiff spoke up first.

"Woof~~"

It lifted a paw to pat Arven, its eyes full of kindness and encouragement.

Andrew smiled and said, "See, even Maschiff is supporting you. The professors love you a lot, and they will support you too."

Arven's smile returned, and he hugged Maschiff affectionately, giving Andrew a determined nod.

"Yes! I'll do my best!"

"Zzz~ Zzz~"

At that moment, Munchlax's loud snoring filled the air. Andrew, both amused and resigned, said to everyone, "It's getting late. Let's head back."

"Dolliv~"

"Pii~"

"Char~"

The Pokémon all waved their goodbyes.

After Andrew, Diancie, and Drizzile got up from Munchlax, Andrew gave it a gentle nudge. "Munchlax, time to head home!"

"Mmm~"

Munchlax, still half-asleep, slowly sat up and rubbed its eyes, looking quite drowsy.

Andrew shook his head with a smile and took its hand, leading it back home.

"Alright, everyone, we're heading out," Andrew said, turning to wave at Pawmi and the others.

Arven also waved and said, "Goodbye!"

"Espeon~"

"Paw~"

"Raichu~"

"Pikachu~~"

The wild Pokémon waved back, watching as Andrew and his friends disappeared into the night.

Munchlax, still groggy, was guided by Andrew until they were back home. It lay down on its bed and was still half-asleep the next morning, puzzled about how it got there.

Back at the Research Station, Andrew and Arven went to their rooms.

Before heading to his own room, Andrew stopped by the professors' area to call Raleigh back to his room, reminding him to go to bed early since kids shouldn't stay up too late.

Raleigh left the lab reluctantly, clearly unhappy to part ways.

In their room, after getting the Pokémon settled and ready for bed, Andrew said, "Good night, everyone."

"Good night~"

"Good night~"

"Good night~"

"Good night~"

The Pokémon echoed Andrew's goodnight wishes.

Andrew had laid a blanket on the floor. Espathra was resting on it, with two Dolliv nestled beneath its wings.

The Oinkologne couple, head to head, had just said goodnight to Andrew and were already softly snoring.

The Charcadet snuggled close beside them.

Andrew tucked Komala into bed and then opened the system to collect his task rewards before going to sleep.

Since he hadn't participated in cooking training, he received only one daily reward.

Congratulations, you have received a reward: 1 bag of premium rice.

It was a modest reward, but the rice from the system was known for its great taste.

Next, he collected the rewards for the Ingredient Collection Task and the Spice Collection Task he completed today.

First, he claimed the reward for the Ingredient Collection Task.

Congratulations on completing the Ingredient Collection Task: Captured at least 10 Veluza. Reward: Advanced Recipe — Fish Feed Recipe (a special recipe for fish-type Pokémon, aids in their growth).

Exceeded the task requirements, additional reward: +2 Constitution, +1 Intelligence.

An advanced recipe! This was exciting!

Andrew was thrilled. An advanced recipe meant more happiness points. Although it was specific to fish Pokémon, it was still a great bonus!

The fish food could be used not only for Veluza but also for Magikarp, Feebas, and Goldeen at home—quite a bonus.

The extra rewards for exceeding the task were an unexpected delight!

Excitedly, Andrew then collected the reward for the Condiment Collection Task.

Congratulations on completing the Condiment Collection Task 1: Captured at least 1 Smoliv, Dolliv, or Arboliva. Reward: Advanced Recipe — Mugwort Green Ball Recipe (a special recipe for grass-type Pokémon, has special effects on milk-producing Pokémon).

Exceeded the task requirements, additional reward: +1 Constitution.

Another advanced recipe?

Andrew was ecstatic, almost jumping out of bed!

Even though it was another specialized recipe, it was perfect for grass-type Pokémon. The large herds of Gogoats and Skiddos on Nebel Plateau were the most numerous, apart from the Poliwag Clan.

This specialized recipe was just what he needed! And the special effect for milk-producing Pokémon was an added bonus.

He wondered what the special effect could be.

Andrew checked the system's recipe interface, and indeed, both the Fish Feed and Mugwort Green Ball recipes had been added.

He then reviewed his personal information screen.

Andrew

- Species: Human

- Gender: Male

- Age: 16 (+500)

- Constitution: 39

- Intelligence: 19

- Culinary Rating: Intermediate Chef

With his constitution approaching 40 and intelligence nearing 20, Andrew felt a sense of satisfaction with the power growing within him.

He climbed into bed, pulling the blanket over himself and cuddling Komala close. It wasn't long before he fell into a deep sleep.

The next morning, Andrew woke up early and, with Charcadet and Dolliv, prepared breakfast for the two professors and the researchers. The meal included steamed buns and porridge.

The buns, made with Dolliv's oil, were exceptionally aromatic. The filling had seeped into the bun's skin, blending harmoniously with the wheat flavor. Even Andrew found them to be the best buns he had ever tasted.

The porridge, made with the premium rice he had just obtained, was rich and smooth, a superior version of the dish.

Professor Furtu took a bite of the bun and then sipped the porridge, his face full of satisfaction. "Having Andrew here is a real treat for us!"

"Yes, it would be wonderful if His Highness could stay here and cook for us forever," a researcher sighed wistfully.

A researcher from the Azoth Kingdom immediately countered, "What are you talking about? His Highness is our prince and will definitely return. He can't stay here cooking forever!"

The researcher grumbled, "I was just making a casual remark. No need to get so worked up."

The Azoth researcher shot him a sharp look. "Not even as a casual remark!"

After breakfast, Gabe arrived with additional meals for the professors and researchers.

The professors had hoped Gabe would be able to skip bringing food for a few days, but Gabe explained that the meals were arranged by the Alliance and managed by the Treasure Eatery. He had no authority to refuse, and even if he did, the Treasure Eatery would still provide the meals.

The professors had no choice but to accept this arrangement.

Once Gabe and his team left, the professors prepared to start their work.

Professor Sada then asked, "Andrew, could we borrow Diancie today? We have some research that could use its assistance."

"Certainly," Andrew agreed.

This was one of the reasons Andrew had been invited, and Diancie had also consented.

Andrew summoned Diancie, and Professor Sada extended a hand. "Diancie, thank you for your help today."

"Of course, Professor Sada," Diancie replied, shaking hands with the professor.

(End of Chapter)