Clutching the Cascade Badge he had just won from the Cerulean Gym, Ren stepped out of the waterborne arena. In his arms, Shuppet immediately changed its demeanor—its previously tense body relaxed, its round little head lifted high, eyes sparkling like they held starlight. It looked every bit like a triumphant little general eager to claim credit, as if afraid anyone might forget its heroic feat of taking on two opponents alone.
Ren couldn't help but chuckle at its proud display. He gently pinched its soft cheek. "Alright, alright. I know our Shuppet is the strongest—the most impressive Ghost-type in all of Kanto. No need to show off this much."
Shuppet let out a dissatisfied little huff, burrowing its head into his arms while still holding its posture stiff and proud. The expression on its face practically screamed, I'm amazing—praise me more! The lingering tension from the hard-fought battle dissolved instantly. Even the cool, misty breeze around them seemed to grow lighter.
Back at the Cerulean Pokémon Center, Ren first conducted a routine check for Shuppet. Viridian Power flowed gently, easing away the last traces of fatigue from battle. After that, he headed straight to the crafting area to prepare enough Pokéblocks for their journey to Lavender Town.
The Water-resistance Berries, Ghost-type Berries, and newly unlocked advanced recipes from the system were all laid out before him.
Washing, cutting, precise proportioning—his movements were smooth and practiced, no longer resembling those of a beginner Trainer. The pale blue paste from Water-resistance Berries blended with the deep-blue Ghost-type Berry mixture. Once placed into the upgraded machine, it began to hum softly, releasing a crisp yet gentle aroma—sweet, yet carrying a rich undertone of ghostly energy.
Before long, several high-tier Pokéblocks formed, their textures refined and faintly glowing. They could quickly restore stamina, enhance Shuppet's Ghost-type abilities, and even slightly improve its resistance to Water- and Poison-type moves—perfectly suited for the upcoming journey.
Shuppet crouched by the workstation, its nose twitching eagerly as it sniffed the fragrance. Its eyes were locked onto the Pokéblocks, and its little claws scratched lightly at the ground like a greedy guardian of treasure.
Smiling, Ren picked one up and held it to its mouth.
Shuppet immediately began nibbling in small bites, its face full of satisfaction. Its tail tip swayed gently, and it didn't even notice the bit of berry paste stuck at the corner of its mouth. The sight was irresistibly endearing.
[Ding—Main Mission Triggered: Travel to Lavender Town]
[Mission Objective: Arrive at Lavender Town and explore the Soul Tower to seek hidden treasures]
[Mission Reward: Special Energy Fragments ×2, Complete Ghost-type Pokéblock Recipe Set, Minor Enhancement of Viridian Power]
The system prompt sounded right on cue. Ren carefully stored the Pokéblocks, then set out with a content Shuppet in his arms.
The road from Cerulean City to Lavender Town was gentle—no steep mountains, no rushing rivers. Instead, it was lined with grassy plains and lush forest paths. Sunlight filtered through the leaves, casting dappled patterns on the ground. Occasionally, Pidgey fluttered past the branches, leaving behind crisp calls. The breeze carried the scent of grass and wildflowers, making the journey feel relaxed and pleasant.
At first, Shuppet stayed quietly in Ren's arms, but before long, its curiosity got the better of it. It darted after a Wurmple fluttering nearby, then perched on a flower branch to watch a Taillow sipping nectar. It was lively and full of energy.
Ren followed behind, occasionally reaching out to steady it when it nearly slipped, a smile never leaving his face.
As they reached an open patch of grass, a sudden rustling came from the bushes. A round, slightly sneaky-looking Rattata burst out. Plump like a fuzzy ball, its small eyes were fixed on the Pokéblocks peeking out from Ren's bag. Clearly drawn by the scent, it intended to steal a snack.
Its short legs moved quickly but without any real plan—it charged straight toward the bag like a clueless little thief.
Shuppet immediately puffed up, darting back in front of Ren. Its tiny body stiffened as it let out a small but fierce growl, wings raised high. The protective stance had some intimidation—though paired with its round face, it was more cute than threatening.
Startled by the sudden display, the chubby Rattata couldn't stop in time. Its feet slipped—
plop!
It fell flat on its back, tiny whiskers drooping, its front teeth trembling slightly. It lay there, dazed and confused.
The awkward, comical scene made Ren burst out laughing.
Shuppet froze for a moment too, then quickly relaxed, turning its head away as if it didn't care—though its sideways glance and slight sway gave away its hidden pride.
The embarrassed Rattata scrambled to its feet, ears reddening, and fled back into the bushes without daring to look back.
A small, harmless incident—
yet it became the most amusing moment of the journey.
Ren bent down, scooping Shuppet back into his arms and patting its head. "You're really protective of your food. Next time, don't be so fierce—it just wanted a snack."
Shuppet rubbed against his palm, clearly thinking, I did nothing wrong—I was amazing.
Ren laughed softly again.
They continued onward. Occasionally, they encountered wild Oddish or Rattata, but Ren simply guided Shuppet around them, avoiding unnecessary battles. The journey remained calm and warm, with Viridian Power constantly surrounding Shuppet, keeping it in a comfortable state.
As they drew closer to Lavender Town, the atmosphere gradually changed.
The scent of grass faded slightly, replaced by something softer—mysterious. Fewer wild Pokémon appeared, and occasionally, faint bluish figures flickered in the distance—Ghost-type Pokémon inhabiting the area. Gentle by nature, they simply observed passing Trainers quietly, without any malice.
Shuppet, being a Ghost-type itself, was especially attuned to this environment. Its once lively demeanor grew quieter as it rested its head against Ren's shoulder, observing its surroundings with a mix of curiosity and alertness.
Through Viridian Power, Ren sensed its emotions and gently soothed its caution.
By evening, the full view of Lavender Town finally came into sight.
There were no towering buildings or bustling markets. Instead, low gray wooden houses stood neatly arranged, the streets calm and quiet, carrying a simple and peaceful charm. A soft breeze carried the scent of plants mixed with a gentle trace of ghostly energy, bringing an unexpected sense of comfort.
[Ding—System Mission Completed]
[Mission Objective: Arrive at Lavender Town and explore the Soul Tower]
[Rewards Granted, Viridian Power slightly enhanced]
At the center of the town stood a tall ancient tower.
Built from blue-gray stone, its surface carved with delicate patterns, it radiated a soft, mysterious aura under the fading light.
The Soul Tower—
home to countless Ghost-type Pokémon.
Holding Shuppet, Ren stepped into Lavender Town. The townspeople were warm and welcoming. Seeing the unfamiliar Trainer, they simply nodded kindly. An elderly woman passing by even handed him a freshly baked berry biscuit with a smile.
"Young man, you should visit the Soul Tower. The Pokémon there are all very gentle."
Ren thanked her and headed straight for the Pokémon Center with Shuppet in his arms.
Nurse Joy, as always, was kind and attentive. After checking Shuppet's condition, she smiled warmly.
"It's in excellent shape. The bond between you two is truly deep—it's something to admire."
After a brief rest, Ren carried Shuppet and walked step by step toward the base of the Soul Tower.
The tower radiated a gentle ghostly energy—there was nothing eerie or frightening about it. Instead, it felt like a sanctuary, quietly protecting countless Pokémon souls.
Peaceful.
Warm.
Shuppet peeked out from his arms and let out a soft cry toward the tower, as if greeting the Pokémon within.
Ren gently stroked its head and lifted his gaze toward the towering structure before him.
His heart filled with anticipation.