After successfully taming Haunter, Robert decided there was no need to continue exploring the small forest. He returned both Haunter and Charmeleon to their Pokéballs and retraced his steps back toward the Pokémon Center.
The night air was cool and still, the only sounds being the rustling of leaves and the occasional cry of a distant Pokémon. Robert walked calmly, his thoughts drifting between his recent battle and his plans for Haunter's training.
However, just as he stepped out of the grove, a voice called out from the shadows behind a tree.
"I didn't expect to meet such an interesting young man at this hour."
Robert's body tensed. His right hand instinctively moved toward his waist, ready to summon Charmeleon at a moment's notice.
"Who's there? Come out!"
A chuckle echoed from the darkness, and then, from behind the tree, emerged an elderly man carrying a white lantern. His thin frame and bald head gleamed under the lantern's glow, and he wore a gentle, almost knowing smile.
"Well, well, no need to be so tense, young man," the old man said in a friendly tone. "I just haven't seen such a talented and powerful young trainer in quite some time. If I'm not mistaken, you've only recently started your journey, haven't you?"
Robert narrowed his eyes as he studied the man. There was something oddly familiar about him—the kind eyes, the wise demeanor. Then, it clicked.
This old man… He looks just like—
A name surfaced in his mind.
"Mr. Fuji?"
Mr. Fuji was a well-known figure in Lavender Town, a kindhearted elder who dedicated his life to caring for abandoned and orphaned Pokémon. He had turned his home into a Pokémon House, providing shelter for creatures who had lost their families.
But that wasn't all.
Mr. Fuji had once been a prominent researcher, even involved in the development of Red Lotus Laboratory. He was deeply respected among Pokémon scholars.
More importantly, in the original timeline Robert remembered, Mr. Fuji had played a key role in resisting Team Rocket's cruelty. He had openly opposed them after witnessing their mistreatment of Pokémon—especially after they caused the tragic death of a mother Marowak at Lavender Tower. His actions had led to his capture, only for him to be later rescued by none other than the protagonist of the original story.
And, as every experienced Pokémon trainer knew, Mr. Fuji was famous for one more thing…
He was an old man who gave out legendary items.
Whether in the games or various adaptations, meeting Mr. Fuji often meant receiving a valuable treasure—be it a Poké Flute, a Key Stone, or even a Mega Evolution Stone.
Robert's mind raced.
If this is really Mr. Fuji… then am I about to get a free Mega Evolution item?
Suppressing his excitement, he maintained a composed expression.
Mr. Fuji, meanwhile, seemed amused by Robert's reaction.
"You seem to have recognized me," the old man chuckled. "Though I imagine my name may not mean much to young trainers these days."
Robert inwardly scoffed. Mean much? Old man, if I told you just how important you are, you'd probably faint on the spot.
Of course, he kept those thoughts to himself and instead responded with polite surprise. "Really? I didn't expect someone as kind-looking as you to be such a renowned figure. It's truly an honor to meet you."
Mr. Fuji beamed at the compliment, clearly pleased. However, as he examined Robert's face, he couldn't help but notice something strange.
"Strange… I could've sworn you looked more surprised a moment ago, but now you seem… oddly calm," he murmured, rubbing his chin.
Robert smiled but didn't say anything.
Fuji squinted at him suspiciously, then suddenly reached into his pocket.
"Well, since you're such a polite young man, I suppose I should give you something," he said.
Robert's ears practically perked up.
"Here it comes!"
"Something for me?" he asked with a puzzled expression, feigning ignorance.
"Yes, that's right."
Slowly, Mr. Fuji pulled out two stones—one large, one small—and placed them in front of Robert.
The smaller stone had strange, ancient runes engraved on its surface, while the larger one bore the unmistakable symbol of Gengar.
Robert's heart skipped a beat.
There was no doubt about it—this was Gengar's Mega Evolution Stone and a Key Stone.
Jackpot!
His mind immediately calculated the benefits. While his system's Pokémon Emporium allowed him to buy Mega Evolution Stones, they weren't cheap. He had planned to save up 3,000 points to buy one for Haunter eventually. But now?
This saved him both time and resources.
His calm expression vanished, replaced with an almost comically exaggerated display of enthusiasm. His hands shot forward, clasping Mr. Fuji's outstretched right hand in gratitude.
"Oh, sir, you're too kind!" Robert exclaimed, grinning from ear to ear. "To think that you'd give me something so valuable without even knowing me—I must be incredibly lucky!"
Before Mr. Fuji could react, Robert smoothly swiped the Gengar Mega Evolution Stone from his palm and stored it in his system's backpack in the blink of an eye.
His speed was so fast, it was as if he feared Mr. Fuji might suddenly change his mind.
The old man blinked in confusion.
"Uh… where did all that calmness go?" he muttered.
Just a second ago, Robert had been composed, almost indifferent. Now he was acting as if he had just been reunited with a long-lost family member.
Fuji scratched his head, puzzled.
Why did he suddenly become so enthusiastic?
Of course, he had no way of knowing that Robert was simply thrilled at getting something for free.
Sighing, Fuji ultimately dismissed the thought. "Haha, don't worry about it. The two stones I gave you aren't treasures in themselves—what matters is the bond you share with your Pokémon. I believe that one day, you'll discover their true potential."
Robert nodded, already planning how to train Haunter into a formidable Gengar.
Fuji then glanced at the stones he had given away, a thoughtful expression on his face. "You know, these stones are quite fascinating. Over the years, I've observed something peculiar about them. Whenever a trainer and their Pokémon share a strong connection, these stones tend to react in mysterious ways—almost as if they resonate with their bond."
Robert listened carefully.
It seemed that, in this timeline, Mr. Fuji had been conducting his own research into Mega Evolution.
"In my younger years, I gathered a number of these stones from various places, hoping to uncover their secrets. But as I grew older, I realized that true discoveries could only come from trainers like you—those who share deep connections with their Pokémon," Fuji continued.
A small smile formed on Robert's lips.
"So, you're giving them to me as an experiment, huh?" he said.
Fuji let out a hearty laugh. "You could say that! You're actually the first trainer I've chosen for this little 'experiment' of mine. Consider it both a gift and a test of your potential."
Robert smirked. If that's the case, then I'll make sure to exceed your expectations.
He placed the Key Stone into his pocket and glanced at the Mega Evolution Stone now stored in his system.
With this, Haunter's journey to becoming a powerhouse is already on track.
Fuji seemed pleased with Robert's reaction.
"Well then, young man, I hope to hear of your great achievements in the future," the old man said warmly. "Lavender Town may be peaceful now, but I have a feeling there are challenges ahead. Stay strong."
Robert nodded. "Don't worry. If anything happens, I'll handle it."
With that, the two exchanged goodbyes, and Robert continued toward the Pokémon Center.
As he walked, he couldn't help but grin.
Haunter, get ready. Your Mega Evolution is coming sooner than you think.
His adventure was only getting started.