Large-scale farms naturally had their own established suppliers, and their harvests were measured in quantities far beyond what small operations like Ron's could produce.
The massive agricultural business chains wouldn't even glance at such modest yields.
Thus, small farms had only two options: sell to middlemen or partner with food companies—or local convenience stores—willing to accept smaller batches.
Some convenience stores even maintained long-term contracts with specific small farms.
This made the vendor's suggestion Ron's best—and perhaps only—viable path forward.
As the vendor packed the seeds, he added, "If you have a Pokémon that knows Grassy Terrain, your germination rate will hit nearly 99%."
"For leafy greens like cabbage, lettuce, and spinach, food companies pay around 40G per plant. Higher quality can fetch better prices."
He handed Ron the bundled seeds. "With proper care, you'll earn your first real profit within the first month."
"Thank you," Ron said.
"No trouble! Reach out anytime," the vendor replied, rubbing his hands together. He was about to offer his contact info when he noticed Ron pulling out an old-model Pokédex to pay.
The vendor stared at the outdated device for a long moment. "The food company rep is actually here today—they're at the Pokémon Ranch just outside town, buying milk. You might catch them if you hurry."
With genuine sympathy, he pointed Ron in the right direction and even marked the ranch's location on Ron's map.
Ron thanked him and set off at once.
"Business is good today," another vendor remarked.
"Not really," the first vendor sighed. "These days, that toxic 'follow your dreams' nonsense really hurts people…"
Seeing his companion's curiosity, he explained, "That kid's still using a ten-year-old Pokédex. I saw his balance—only 20,000G. He just spent 16,000G on seeds. No idea how he'll survive the next month before his crops grow."
And his only Pokémon was a Froakie.
Most Pokémon that learned Grassy Terrain were Level 30–40+. This young man clearly didn't have one.
That meant his germination rate would suffer badly.
"Whoever convinced him to start a farm did him no favors… Poor kid."
His neighbor snorted softly.
---
Meanwhile, Ron hurried toward the Pokémon Ranch.
Lumiose City was far from Santalune—if he walked, it'd take hours.
Meeting the rep here would save precious time.
Receiving the business card, Ron realized something critical:
Beyond Kalos seeds, he desperately needed a new communication device—either a modern phone or a Rotom-enabled Pokédex.
Otherwise, even with contact info, he'd be limited to mail or in-person meetings.
He also planned to check if the ranch sold Miltank—once he saved enough, he'd raise these economic Pokémon for dairy production.
Following the vendor's directions, Ron finally reached the ranch on Santalune's outskirts.
Inside, a man in a sharp suit stood talking to a stout woman at the gate.
"This year's milk yield dropped—we only have this much," the woman sighed. "Can't help it. With so many new Trainers, every breeding facility's swamped raising the starter trio."
In Kalos, a Pokémon took 6–12 months from egg to market-ready—orders couldn't be fulfilled instantly.
The man frowned, paid her, and turned to leave—then nearly collided with Ron.
"Hello," Ron said.
The man blinked, then politely returned the greeting. "Can I help you?"
"I heard your company buys fresh produce and raw ingredients."
The man nodded, studying Ron carefully. As the regional buyer, he knew every local farmer by sight—and Ron wasn't one of them.
"And you are?"
"I manage the Pelican Town Pokémon Breeding Facility and farm," Ron said, pausing. He had no business cards, and his farm lacked a name. "I'd like to discuss a partnership."
The man froze.
"Pelican Town? Gabriel's Pelican Town?" He struggled to recall the name. "You're… Ron? The one who inherited his farm?"
Ron, startled by the mention of his grandfather, nodded.
Instantly, the man seized his hand. "No problem! Absolutely no problem! We've been waiting for your call!"
"…Huh?"
"The eggs, bacon—when can those resume? We'll pay 100G per egg! Even more by weight!"
"Not yet," Ron said. "Eggs in about five days. Bacon… we don't have livestock for that yet."
The man deflated slightly. "Then what can you supply?"
Learning Ron offered vegetables, fruits, and soon eggs, he brightened. Something was better than nothing—and this farm would expand.
They settled on 40G per plant and 60G per egg.
"We'll await your first shipment," the man said warmly. "Let's make this partnership a success."
'Securing exclusive rights to Pelican Town's unique animal products would be ideal,' he thought, adjusting his glasses as he drove off to Lumiose.
Ron turned to leave—but the ranch owner approached.
"Sorry—I didn't mean to eavesdrop," she said. "But you run a Pokémon Breeding Facility?"
When Ron nodded, she asked hopefully, "Could I place an order with you?"
------------------------------------------------------
40+ Chapters Ahead: patreon.com/EphemeralShadow
There's something for free patrons too! Free Patrons receive 1 chapter in advance :)