Pokemon: I'm a Farmer

The group found a clearing near the entrance of Meteor Falls. They planned to rest and have lunch before heading inside to explore. Being in a mountainous area far from human settlements, the wild Pokémon population was quite diverse. In a short time, Rex noticed several groups of wild Pokémon watching them. However, upon seeing the fierce-looking Salamence, the Pokémon quickly retreated into the forest, deciding not to confront such a formidable group.

In the wild, where survival of the fittest is the norm, trainers who lack strength often meet unfortunate ends. The number of people reported missing each year in such areas is not insignificant.

After flying for an extended period, three of the four Pokémon were showing signs of exhaustion, with Swellow being the exception due to its energy-efficient flight. This stark contrast made Swellow hold its head higher with pride, even casting a slight look of disdain toward Salamence. Feeling provoked, Salamence was itching to challenge the bird in a showdown to establish dominance.

However, before Salamence could act, its trainer Beach calmed it down. Frustrated, Salamence turned its back on Swellow, choosing to ignore it.

"Everyone, gather around. Let's discuss our route inside Meteor Falls," Beach said after pacifying Salamence.

Rex and the others approached, looking at the map of Meteor Falls displayed on Beach's Pokédex.

"I've studied it thoroughly. There are two main paths inside. We need to decide whether to explore together or split into two teams," Beach suggested seriously.

Rex considered the options. Splitting up could save time and allow for more thorough searches for the Mega Stones, but it was also riskier due to the division of strength. Staying together would ensure safety but would take longer to explore everything in detail.

"I'll go with splitting up," John stated confidently, indicating his trust in his abilities.

"I choose splitting up as well," Mai quickly added, though Rex wasn't sure if it was due to confidence or not wanting to appear weak.

Now, all eyes were on the youngest member, Rex. Given that Beach had made the proposal, he needed to weigh the group's opinions.

"Let's split up, but everyone needs to be cautious. If things get dangerous, retreat immediately," Rex agreed without hesitation.

"Don't worry, Rex. We've handled many missions before. But this is your first time, right? If you need help, just ask us," John reassured.

"Sure, I will," Rex nodded.

As for the team assignments, it was naturally decided that Beach and John would team up, given their shared connection as assistants to Professor Bratano. This left Rex paired with Mai, which he didn't mind at all. Compared to spending days in a cave with another guy, exploring alongside a pretty older girl seemed much more appealing.

"Rex, let's have lunch first. Then we'll head in," Mai suggested, seeing Rex's youthful face made her unconsciously take the lead.

"Okay," Rex agreed readily.

With time on their side, Rex leisurely lit a campfire and began cooking some noodles he had prepared. Meanwhile, Beach and John, eager to find Mega Stones, ate quickly and entered the cave. Although Mai was also eager to start, she didn't rush Rex, instead contributing some ingredients to enhance the meal.

Soon, a pot of aromatic soup noodles was ready.

"Mmm, this is delicious! I didn't expect you to be such a good cook, Rex. Beach and John will definitely regret missing this," Mai exclaimed, her eyes lighting up after a sip of the broth.

"Nah, you're exaggerating. I'm actually the worst cook on our farm," Rex shrugged.

"If that's true, I'll definitely visit your farm after this mission to try the food," Mai replied with enthusiasm, as she loved tasting local cuisine wherever her travels took her.

"You're welcome to visit anytime. I'm sure you won't be disappointed," Rex responded warmly.

After finishing their meal and cleaning up, half an hour had passed since Beach and John had gone ahead.

"Let's go," Mai said, checking that nothing was left behind before leading the way.

They reached the cave's entrance, which bore signs of human modification. Originally, it had been much smaller, but the discoverers of Meteor Falls had widened it for easier access.

Looking into the cave, all they could see was a dark passage. Rex released his Carbink to light the way. Having lived in caves, Carbink was well-adapted to the environment.

"Carbink, use Flash!"

With Rex's command, Carbink began to emit a bright light, illuminating the passage like a small sun.

"Carbink isn't common in the Hoenn region. I'm surprised you have one," Mai remarked.

"I caught it in the depths of Granite Cave. I was just as surprised to find it there," Rex replied, patting Carbink's head.

Following Carbink, they walked for several minutes until they noticed a faint light ahead. As they approached, they emerged into a spacious cavern. Though still dimly lit, they could see a waterfall cascading from above, flowing deeper into the cave.

(End of chapter)