LightReader

Chapter 285 - Chapter 285

"The triple collaboration of the Striaton Brothers!"

"The Grass-type Cilan selects the finest tea leaves, Water-type trainer Cress prepares the purest water, and Fire-type trainer Chili uses just the right flame to boil it — thus, the perfect tea is born!"

"And of course, we can't forget the help of Pokémon!"

"Pansage contributes with the leaves on its head, Panpour brings nutrient-rich water, and Pansear's flames are full of fragrance!"

"Ah~ This tea is amazing. Striaton Restaurant really is the best."

Hilda took a satisfied sip of the hot tea, her cheeks flushed pink. She looked like she was about to melt from bliss, even the art style seemed to change around her.

Striaton's tea was famous throughout the Unova region!

And since Cilan was very pleased with Hikaru's visit—

"This is the renowned Striaton tea! Please, accept it!"

[Item/Material: Striaton Signature Tea! (Lilligant's Herbal Blend)]

[Description: A highly esteemed tea leaf grown in Striaton City. Fragrant and pleasing to the senses. A sip soothes the throat and clears the mind. Some Pokémon love this tea and will grow more affectionate. For humans, it brings comfort and promotes well-being.]

Tea, after all, is an important item in the Pokémon world.

Though in the games, it usually only works in specific areas.

You can use tea to bribe thirsty guards to gain access to Saffron City.

Celadon and Saffron Cities in Kanto are known for their famous teas, especially since Celadon is the home of Erika, the Grass-type specialist.

Hikaru had once purchased some special ghost-infused tea leaves to raise his Doublade back then.

"Thank you, I'll gladly accept it with appreciation."

"Oh no, we should be the ones thanking you!"

Cilan was clearly thrilled.

"The flavor you and your Pokémon present together—it's utterly captivating."

"It's the wild essence of nature!"

Ah, had they entered the "flavor critique segment" now?

"Hmm," the Striaton triplets began to whisper among themselves.

"Why don't we develop a new dish based on that Pokémon just now?"

"Oh! That's a great idea!"

"A dish fit for a dragon—only the strong can savor its flavor! Dragon-type essence is complex, after all!"

The three brothers enthusiastically exchanged ideas, and they also sought Hikaru's input—after all, that dragon Pokémon had never appeared before in Unova.

Meanwhile, the Link Tree had now connected to the Trio Badge.

[Acquired: Trio Badge]

[Description: A symbol of victory over the Striaton Gym. Its design is based on a tie clip, inlaid with blue, red, and green gemstones. Those who hold the Trio Badge must always continue their journey of challenge!]

[Effect: One of the tokens that allow entry into the Pokémon League. A reward item.]

[Note: The Link Tree has connected to the Trio Badge and acquired new knowledge—"Trinity Force."]

[Water, Fire, and Grass are the most foundational types in the Pokémon world. They form an everlasting cycle of mutual checks and balances. Your understanding of these three types has deepened. When using Pokémon of Water, Fire, or Grass types, the power of their STAB moves increases by 20%. You might even receive elemental resonance from the forces of nature.]

Of course, while they were chatting with Hikaru, the other staff at the Gym-turned-restaurant weren't idle.

Delicious breakfast dishes were quickly served, the aroma filling the air!

"Trio Energy Swiss Roll!"

"Three Dugtrio Sandwich!"

"Pure White Cream Soup! Mmm, that fresh milk flavor is overflowing!"

"Chikorita Herb-Toast Bites!"

Hilda's eyes sparkled as she gazed at the dishes brought out—she could hardly contain her appetite!

Truffle: "Sis, you're not acting very ladylike..."

Hilda: "Ladylike dies at breakfast."

"Wild flavor definitely suits a fiery curry best!"

"No, the raging tide fits it better. An icy Whirlpool Salad is more appropriate."

"The fusion of water and fire, a savory delicacy... I'd say the perfect fit is a creamy soup!"

Now that they had permission, the three brothers began arguing over the flavor profile of the new dish they'd develop!

Hikaru's gaze wandered to the open kitchen.

Huh? The ones cooking aren't just chefs—there are Watchog too?

"Pokémon are cooking...?"

Chili: "Ah! You noticed, didn't you? That's another specialty of Striaton Restaurant! The Watchog are outstanding pastry chefs!"

Mice love sweets, after all. So it makes sense they're good at making them too.

And in Unova, Watchog frequently serve as firefighters and patrol Pokémon.

Out of curiosity, Hikaru walked into the open kitchen to observe. The Watchog, sensing Hikaru's interest, began blinking curiously at him.

Huh? A human who can understand us?

Sensing that Hikaru just wanted to watch them cook, the Watchog became enthusiastic!

Hoho! You're here to witness our craftsmanship? Then prepare to be amazed!

[Knowledge Acquired: Watchog Culinary Techniques!]

[Description: These are not human-made dishes, but culinary arts passed down by Pokémon. They can be enjoyed by both humans and Pokémon, and the taste is top-notch—a rare and exceptional technique!]

[Available Recipes: Trio Energy Swiss Roll, Chikorita Herb-Toast Bites, Wishing Apple Pie, Jigglypuff Pudding Parfait, Radical Corn Tiramisu, Sweet Aroma Chocolate Cake...]

[With specialized culinary techniques, the resulting desserts may grant various beneficial effects.]

"Huh? That's really interesting."

Though humans and Pokémon have differing tastes in food, the majority of recipes actually overlap quite a bit.

"Lilligant~"

A Poké Ball popped open, and Lilligant appeared on her own, tilting her head curiously at the working Watchog.

Back in Sinnoh, she was the one in charge of brewing floral teas and berry juices.

Though when it came to truly important edible meals, it was usually Hikaru who made them.

Cress: "Are you interested in culinary arts?"

Hikaru: "Ah, well, I don't have a certified Breeder license, but I can make some nutritious foods for Pokémon. Though since arriving in Unova, I haven't had the chance to make any."

Cilan looked surprised: "Then why not try making something here? I'll gladly be the taste tester!"

His intentions were written all over his face!

Most artists can't cook—and are often poor, too. But Hikaru... this young genius seems to have some hidden talents!

"Should I give it a try? But just a warning—my food's pretty powerful. It might cause—"

"No matter! Let's give it a shot."

Hikaru looked at Lilligant.

It was a good chance to learn more about Unova-style dishes, and it wouldn't take much time.

[Link Quest: Complete a Striaton Restaurant Dish]

[Description: To eat is to embrace life itself—a truth even etched into the undersea ruins. Complete a dish at Striaton Restaurant. If widely acclaimed, it may become a popular menu item! Eating brings joy!]

[Reward: 3× Dream Orbs, 5× Special Ingredients, 1× Special Title, 30× Golden Acorns, Recipe: Enchanting Pofflé]

Enchanting Pofflé?

Is that different from regular pofflés?

"Ooh, special ingredients? Not bad."

Thanks to the help of Pokémon, meal preparation went swiftly. And Hikaru nearly forgot he had a special knowledge of "Accelerated Time," which drastically reduced the crafting time of some items.

It wasn't just useful for brewing alcohol!

Plus, he really hadn't brought many ingredients from Sinnoh.

Mostly because he just didn't have space in his bag.

Speaking of which—there were still two Nono Mushrooms left. But because he worried about how their spores might affect Turtwig, he hadn't transplanted them onto its back yet.

Though Turtwig really liked those monster shrooms.

Now that he had White Forest's blessing, it might be fine... probably?

With the Link Device, he could pull items from the connected world like a portable inventory. Maybe it was time to get some berry planters or mushroom trays.

Lilligant studied diligently, while the Watchog weren't stingy with their instructions.

While every restaurant has its own secret recipes, the truth is—without talent, even knowing them won't let you recreate the dish.

But Pokémon didn't think that way.

And Striaton's Swiss Roll was special—it included unique ingredients. It was called the "Energy Swiss Roll" because it quickly replenished energy in humans and Pokémon alike.

"I do have special berries too."

Hikaru had some powdered Pecha Berries with him, but after a moment's thought, he decided not to waste such potent materials on an ordinary dish.

That'd be overkill.

He picked through the berry crates at Striaton and found some suitable ones.

They were rated Silver Star quality—that was more than enough!

While the games said berries couldn't be grown in Unova, the ones for sale here were of surprisingly high quality.

He'd already bought a bunch of premium berries back in Nimbasa City.

Hikaru and Lilligant moved with precision, but to Cilan and the others, it looked entirely different.

"So skilled... I've never seen that combo of berries before..."

"What kind of flavor will it produce? The ingredients are so rare!"

Swiss Rolls are made from flour, eggs, cream, and milk—plus sugar, vinegar, etc.

But Hikaru didn't plan to just recreate the Trio Swiss Roll—he wanted to craft a brand-new type of dessert.

The brothers were right—let's let Walking Wake's name echo across Unova, starting with food!

Compared to art, food spreads faster and reaches more people!

To make the perfect dish, Hikaru took out a treasured item:

A Dragon Fang.

Not only a sacred relic and battle item, but also a very unique ingredient. Thanks to Lance, Hikaru had acquired several. Just scraping off some powder was enough.

In his dreams, he'd already made powerful dragon meals—now it was time to recreate one.

The oven preheated. Time to bake!

The cake turned out fluffy, moist, and delicious!

Ding—

"Huh? The oven lit up?" The three brothers were stunned when the oven emitted a brilliant flash as it opened.

Once baked, Hikaru piped beautiful cream on top and decorated it.

He and Lilligant quickly completed the final touches, garnishing it with sliced berries shaped like dragon fangs.

[Dish: Dragon Fang Cream Cake (Unique Cuisine – Awaiting Official Name)!]

[Description: A special baked cake made from Dragon Fang powder, Roseli Berry, Lepa Berry, Sitrus Berry, Lum Berry, Mago Berry, and Aromatic Mushroom. Loaded with whipped cream, it possesses an incredible flavor and aroma that attracts all types of Pokémon.]

[Effect: Has the highest allure for Dragon- and Water-type Pokémon. Its scent is irresistible to both humans and Pokémon, boosts growth and strength, and significantly increases Beauty, Happiness, and Joy. May even change the style of those who eat it.]

[If you add Radiant Vegetables, it evolves into a Radiant Dish.]

[Meal Powers: Catching Power (Water LV2); Title Power (Dragon LV1); Encounter Power (Dragon LV1).]

[Cooking Boost: Life LV3 — Grants immense life energy. Strong healing effects for sick, weak, or injured Pokémon. Uplifts spirit and eliminates many physical ailments, boosting health and resilience.]

『Hisuian Lilligant has completed a task and gained experience and growth.』

『Acquired Expertise: Beautiful Food Specialist — Enhances the taste and power of berries in recipes, improves the appeal of moves, and boosts control during contests.』

[Craftable Food Items: Decorative Sugar, Max Candy, Heart-Shaped Dessert, Lumiose Galette, Shalour Sablé]

Foods that boost move beauty... could sell well to Pokémon Contest Trainers!

"So fast! What just happened?!"

"How did it get decorated so quickly? I just looked away for a moment!"

When Hikaru finished, a crowd had unknowingly gathered around him.

Not just the Striaton Brothers, but also Hilda and Truffle, and the morning guests of the restaurant.

Even the Watchog chefs were staring, drooling.

You're the chef?!

Cilan's expression was priceless—as if witnessing a divine delicacy. He had unique baking skills himself; in the movie, even Victini loved his macarons.

"This dish has never been served in this restaurant before... Please, let the chef introduce it himself!"

"And what is the name of this dish?"

All three brothers looked eagerly to Hikaru, especially curious about the berries used.

After some thought, Hikaru replied:

"Walking Wake Dragon Fang Cake."

"Because it really does contain Dragon Fang powder. In Alola, Dragon Fangs are considered a dream ingredient."

In the Pokémon world, naming foods after Pokémon is common.

Though it sounded clunky at first, "Walking Wake Dragon Fang" flowed better as a whole.

A bit odd—but if it becomes a legendary dish, then the oddness becomes its signature.

The berries chosen were all closely associated with Water and Dragon types. Through special techniques, their nutrients were fused together. If he added Persim or Shuckle Berry Juice, it might even become a cake-version of Rare Candy.

The triplets documented this legendary cake in full. With Hikaru's permission, they portioned it for sampling.

Cress adjusted his tie, delicately raised the crystalline plate, and inhaled the aroma with his eyes closed.

As restaurant hosts, they had to taste test first before offering it to guests. This wasn't originally in the plan.

As they took a bite, all three brothers reacted in sync—first stunned, like they'd been shocked by lightning, then invigorated as energy surged through them!

"OOOOHHH! What is this?! Delicious! And power—it's overflowing!!"

Chili, the Fire-type, reacted most dramatically, feeling bursting energy and an urge to act, even growing agitated.

Cilan trembled—not with shock, but an unnatural energy surge. He felt more energized than he ever had in his life!

As for Cress, perhaps due to his synergy with Water-types, he transformed completely—from cool blue side character to literal blue-haired prince, sparking squeals from the female patrons.

"Wait—this thing changes art style? That's what changing styles meant?!"

They'd gone from Pokémon-style to shoujo manga!

"Opening notes are the caramelized amber of Roseli, followed by the salty mist of Mago, then the syrupy Sitrus, minty Lum, sweet-sour Lepa, and the rich aroma of the mushroom... These blended flavors produce a taste that brings happiness and joy—it's unbelievable!"

"A dream-like cake."

"So good!" Hilda, who had already taken a bite, gave the ultimate review.

As a science girl, she kept things simple. Unlike the literature-savvy brothers, she gave the most sincere praise:

"Thanks. 'Delicious' really is the highest praise."

Hikaru smiled. "Though my food is more suited for Pokémon, the life force in these berries helps Pokémon grow stronger and heal from ailments."

"That's not strange—many regional specialties have similar effects."

[Quest Complete!]

[Rewards: 3× Dream Orbs, 5× Special Ingredients, 30× Golden Acorns, Recipe: Enchanting Pofflé]

[Your dish was widely praised. The ancient dragon's name is now remembered. The Link Tree has felt new intent—people's joy, happiness, gratitude, and dreams have flowed into the linked world!]

[Striaton Restaurant is famous in Unova. With their endorsement, your renown rises again! Culinary arts are a form of artistry too!]

[Golden Acorn: A shiny acorn loved by Pokémon. Resembles the fruits on Grotle and Torterra's backs, but gold in color. It restores mood, boosts movement, and allows you to befriend wild Pokémon. Give it to wild Pokémon to gain their help.]

[Special Ingredients: Spicy Herb, Salt of Draconite, Unova Raspberry, Golden Syrup, Spiral Corn]

"Huh, corn? Of course. Unova wouldn't be Unova without corn."

Hikaru nodded in satisfaction.

This felt right.

[Extra: Spice Blend]

[Enchanting Pofflé: A unique pofflé with enchanting charm. Releases a mysterious aroma that attracts wild Pokémon, greatly increases one Pokémon's friendship and affection, and lowers hostility and negative emotions.]

"Lilligant, this is for you."

Lilligant blinked, ignoring the admiring gazes around her. She happily took the golden acorn Hikaru handed over, her expression joyful.

Just holding it gave off a warm feeling—like it could be used to make something truly delicious.

And... did something about her trainer's feelings change too?

Hmm, it was a kind of joy, warmth, and... loveable sensation. She found herself liking him even more!

(End of Chapter)

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