After entering the Royal City, Lucas took out the food truck he had just purchased from the system backpack and drove it to the park he had scouted yesterday.
Lucas still remembered how to drive, though he was a bit rusty from lack of practice. Fortunately, he only needed to drive from outside the park to inside—not a particularly long distance.
Speaking of which, he had no identification, no driver's license; he was essentially an illegal resident. Thankfully, he had the system backpack that could store anything, otherwise he would have been caught within minutes if he had driven on open streets.
Just as he had discovered during yesterday's reconnaissance, a large crowd gathered in this park early in the morning—young people jogging and exercising, elderly men and women participating in group dances, and vendors selling their wares...
After parking the vehicle, Lucas observed the energetic seniors dancing in the distance and sighed inwardly: Even in the Pokémon world, one couldn't avoid encountering elderly people performing group dances.
The key difference was that these seniors each brought a Pokémon to dance with them, the most common being various fashionably groomed Furfrou.
After opening the truck, Lucas set to work.
The food truck Lucas purchased was specially designed with a spacious interior equivalent to a kitchen. One side of the vehicle could be opened, similar to a general store's service window, where customers could collect their meals.
"Komala, be good and stay here. When customers pay, you can help me collect the money." As he spoke, Lucas placed Komala on the nearby counter where a storage box specifically for holding currency was positioned.
Komala hugged its log pillow and swayed back and forth, not responding to Lucas. He was accustomed to this behavior and, regardless of whether it understood or not, busied himself with preparations.
Lucas had mentioned yesterday that he planned to sell plain steamed buns, but in truth, what he intended to sell today wasn't limited to those—he would also offer baozi (stuffed buns).
Lucas's special ability was also known as the Pokémon Feeding System, which meant he earned Happiness Points for feeding Pokémon, but not for "feeding" humans.
In essence, Lucas could only choose one between Poké Dollars and Happiness Points.
Given this reality, the food he sold didn't need to be restricted to plain steamed buns like at home. Compared to those, baozi had more market appeal.
Of course, Lucas's steamed buns were crafted according to recipes provided by the system, using special techniques that made them vastly different from ordinary offerings.
While kneading the dough, Lucas thought to himself: if it weren't for needing money to purchase ingredients, he truly wouldn't bother setting up this stall. It was exhausting work.
As the sun fully emerged on the horizon, Lucas's steamed buns and baozi were placed in the steamer.
He had prepared three varieties of baozi today: cabbage filling, chive filling, and radish filling. The vegetables in the fillings were all grown in his own garden and were exceptionally fresh.
When Lucas initially planted them, he had only cultivated a small plot of each vegetable. He originally thought it would barely suffice for his household, but the vegetable seeds produced by the system proved extraordinary. These vegetables grew with remarkable vigor, producing far more than his family of four could consume.
He had been storing harvested vegetables in the refrigerator daily. When that became full, he placed the excess in his system backpack. By now, he had accumulated substantial reserves and wouldn't need to worry about shortages for quite some time.
Fortunately, he had heeded Diancie's advice to prepare for less abundant times. Otherwise, after the novice period, if the system suddenly ceased supplying ingredients, he might have found himself unprepared.
Although the system had reserved enough ingredients and seasonings for him to use for a month, these supplies were limited primarily to flour for making steamed buns.
Once the baozi and steamed buns were steamed to perfection, Lucas exited the food truck and arranged two tables with several benches outside, providing seating for customers who wished to enjoy their breakfast.
He also placed his homemade pickled radish and spicy chives on each table as complimentary side dishes.
The recipes for pickled radish and spicy chives had been taught to Lucas by his grandfather in his previous life. As a child, he had adored the side dishes his grandfather prepared, but Lucas never quite mastered the technique. Though he learned the methods, the taste always fell slightly short of the original.
As time passed, the enticing aroma of the baozi began wafting around with the steam, attracting even Lucas himself.
My skills are improving! Lucas couldn't help feeling a surge of pride.
Komala, swaying with closed eyes, twitched its nose slightly. It hadn't eaten breakfast either and couldn't help being drawn to the delicious scent.
What's that wonderful smell?
Passersby, exercising youths, elderly dancers, vendors setting up stalls—all involuntarily began searching for the source of the tantalizing aroma.
Finally, they noticed Lucas's stall.
An elderly man holding a fluffy Growlithe approached and inquired, "Young man, what are you selling here? Why does it smell so incredible?"
Lucas replied with a smile, "Sir, I'm selling baozi and steamed buns. Would you like to try some?"
"Baozi? Steamed buns?" The elderly man looked puzzled. "What are those?"
The eating habits of Kalos residents were closer to Western cuisine from Lucas's previous life, especially in the Azoth Kingdom. The old man had never encountered baozi or steamed buns before.
"You'll understand once you try them, sir. I promise you won't be disappointed," Lucas confidently promoted his craftsmanship.
"Very well, I'll give them a try," the elderly man agreed, being quite straightforward.
"Excellent! Would you prefer baozi or steamed buns? How many would you like?" Lucas asked.
"Let me have one of each to sample first. If they're delicious, I'll purchase more," the elderly man proposed.
"Sir, there are three baozi flavors available: cabbage, chives, and radish. Which would you prefer?" Lucas inquired further.
Not knowing which flavor might appeal to him, the elderly man chose randomly, "Let's try... cabbage."
"Perfect!"
Lucas responded enthusiastically and quickly entered the food truck. After opening the steamer, he extracted one steamed bun and one baozi, wrapping each in fresh leaves.
These particular leaves were unique to the Nebel Plateau. They were edible and emitted a subtle fragrance. During times when food became scarce on the Nebel Plateau, these leaves became essential sustenance for Pokémon.
This was why Lucas chose to use them as wrappers for his buns.
Truthfully, the primary reason was that Lucas lacked alternative wrapping materials. Although the system store sold such items, his Happiness Points were running low.
The elderly customer misinterpreted this choice, assuming it reflected Lucas's ingenuity.
The moment the steamer opened, the aroma of the baozi intensified dramatically, eagerly finding its way into people's nostrils.
"Goodness gracious! The fragrance is overwhelming!" The elderly man swallowed involuntarily and couldn't suppress his exclamation.
"Here you are, sir!" Lucas handed the baozi and steamed bun to him.
The elderly man accepted them, glancing at the leaf wrappings. "These are Lum Berry leaves, aren't they? You're quite resourceful, young man. This variety of leaf is exclusive to the Nebel Plateau. Must have been quite an effort to obtain them, correct?"
The elderly man was knowledgeable and immediately recognized the leaves' origin.
"Hehe~" Lucas smiled and gave the elderly man a thumbs up. "You have an excellent eye, sir."
"Hahaha~ Indeed I do!" The elderly man was pleased by Lucas's acknowledgment and couldn't resist boasting a bit. "In my youth, I traveled throughout the region extensively."
As he spoke, the elderly man gently squeezed the baozi and steamed bun, finding them as soft and pillowy as cotton, which looked incredibly appetizing.
"Please try them while they're hot, sir. If you enjoy them, I'd appreciate your continued patronage," Lucas suggested.
"Certainly." With that, the elderly man took a bite of the bun. Instantly, the soft exterior combined with the crisp, refreshing cabbage filling and the hot juice that burst forth all flooded his mouth. Rich flavors entered through his palate and exited via his nostrils. In that moment, the elderly man felt transported to another dimension.
What kind of heavenly delicacy is this?
"Excellent! Delicious! Absolutely divine!"
The elderly man suddenly exclaimed loudly, startling other potential customers who had also been attracted by the aroma.
It was autumn, with the weather growing cooler. Enjoying such a hot, flavorful bun early in the morning was simply beyond description!
Is it truly that delicious? Isn't he exaggerating? Looking at the elderly man's reaction, other customers who hadn't yet tasted the food couldn't help but wonder.
However, experiencing the pervasive aroma, they found themselves increasingly intrigued.
"Young man, give me ten of each—ten of each flavor of baozi," the elderly man announced enthusiastically. As he spoke, he didn't forget to share half of his partially eaten bun with Growlithe.
"Grow~ Growlithe~!" Almost instantly, Growlithe was captivated by the taste.
However, after sampling the steamed bun next, the Pokémon discovered it preferred that option.
Lucas had long observed that even when food prepared according to his own recipes was delicious, it proved far less appealing to Pokémon than steamed buns made following the system's recipes.
Clearly, the system-provided recipes were meticulously crafted regarding methodology, which explained why it was known as the Pokémon Feeding System.
When settling the bill, the elderly man asked, "What's the total cost?"
Lucas replied, "It comes to 330 Poké Dollars, sir. The steamed buns are 10 Poké Dollars each, and the baozi are 20 Poké Dollars each."
Upon hearing this, the elderly man immediately remarked, "Young fellow, it's not inexpensive, but... it's absolutely worth it!" With that, he cheerfully paid the amount.
In truth, considering the ingredients of the buns and steamed buns, selling them for 10 and 20 Poké Dollars respectively was indeed costly, but who could resist their exquisite taste?
Besides, since no one had encountered this type of food before, nobody questioned the pricing. Even those who thought the price high would simply depart without comment.
"Give me one of those... cabbage baozi."
"I'll take two steamed buns, please."
"I'd like a radish-flavored baozi."
...
Following the elderly man's lead, other customers approached one after another, each wanting to purchase one or two to sample with their Pokémon.
After buying just one or two and consuming them, many began regretting not ordering more. When they returned for additional purchases, they found they couldn't even squeeze through the growing crowd.
"Everyone, please don't crowd! Form a line, please form a line!" Lucas called out loudly, finally establishing some semblance of order after considerable effort.
"Attention, please! Complimentary side dishes are available at the tables. They enhance the flavor of the steamed buns," Lucas reminded them.
"Cash only, no electronic payments accepted," Lucas explained while handing buns to customers.
Some people at the back of the line who hadn't brought physical currency could only leave regretfully after hearing this announcement.
Lucas couldn't help the situation. Who would have advised him to establish a bank account?
Komala continuously collected money, appearing somewhat overwhelmed despite its closed eyes. Its perception was remarkably keen—during this time, one or two customers attempted to avoid payment, and it promptly alerted Lucas.
Lucas didn't scold anyone. Instead, those who tried to evade payment became so embarrassed they dropped their money and hurried away.
Although Lucas had confidence in his food, he hadn't anticipated such booming business. He was so busy that he barely had time to breathe, wishing he could grow additional hands.
Mephisto was on her morning jog. While running, she suddenly detected a faint, enticing aroma. Initially, she intended to ignore it since she was currently dieting, but the scent grew increasingly compelling, causing her to swallow reflexively.
Finally, reaching a corner of the park, she encountered a lengthy queue.
"Excuse me, what are they selling there? Why are there so many people?"
The elderly man had just finished enjoying the buns with his Growlithe and was planning a walk to aid digestion. Advanced age meant eating too much without exercise could easily lead to discomfort. He still carried half a remaining bun, intending to take it home for his wife to sample while still warm.
At this moment, Mephisto approached him.
"Oh~ They're selling baozi and steamed buns. They're incredibly aromatic and delicious!" the elderly man responded, still savoring the experience.
As he spoke, he gestured with the bun in front of Mephisto, releasing a rich fragrance that caused her to swallow hard.
Baozi? Steamed buns? What are those? Mephisto felt her legs moving of their own accord. When she regained awareness, she found herself holding two white, plump buns.
Where am I? What just happened? Mephisto wondered as she took a substantial bite of the bun.
Forget dieting for now. I'll definitely return for more tomorrow! After finishing, Mephisto found herself craving more.
I'll run extra laps to compensate for this indulgence.
Not far from Lucas's stall was another vendor—a middle-aged man selling crepes. Also in the food business, he observed Lucas's thriving trade with undisguised envy.
Breakfast in Azoth City
After entering the Royal City, Lucas took out the food truck he had just purchased from the system backpack and drove it to the park he had scouted yesterday.
Lucas still remembered how to drive, though he was a bit rusty from lack of practice. Fortunately, he only needed to drive from outside the park to inside—not a particularly long distance.
Speaking of which, he had no identification, no driver's license; he was essentially an illegal resident. Thankfully, he had the system backpack that could store anything, otherwise he would have been caught within minutes if he had driven on open streets.
Just as he had discovered during yesterday's reconnaissance, a large crowd gathered in this park early in the morning—young people jogging and exercising, elderly men and women participating in group dances, and vendors selling their wares...
After parking the vehicle, Lucas observed the energetic seniors dancing in the distance and sighed inwardly: Even in the Pokémon world, one couldn't avoid encountering elderly people performing group dances.
The key difference was that these seniors each brought a Pokémon to dance with them, the most common being various fashionably groomed Furfrou.
After opening the truck, Lucas set to work.
The food truck Lucas purchased was specially designed with a spacious interior equivalent to a kitchen. One side of the vehicle could be opened, similar to a general store's service window, where customers could collect their meals.
"Komala, be good and stay here. When customers pay, you can help me collect the money." As he spoke, Lucas placed Komala on the nearby counter where a storage box specifically for holding currency was positioned.
Komala hugged its log pillow and swayed back and forth, not responding to Lucas. He was accustomed to this behavior and, regardless of whether it understood or not, busied himself with preparations.
Lucas had mentioned yesterday that he planned to sell plain steamed buns, but in truth, what he intended to sell today wasn't limited to those—he would also offer baozi (stuffed buns).
Lucas's special ability was also known as the Pokémon Feeding System, which meant he earned Happiness Points for feeding Pokémon, but not for "feeding" humans.
In essence, Lucas could only choose one between Poké Dollars and Happiness Points.
Given this reality, the food he sold didn't need to be restricted to plain steamed buns like at home. Compared to those, baozi had more market appeal.
Of course, Lucas's steamed buns were crafted according to recipes provided by the system, using special techniques that made them vastly different from ordinary offerings.
While kneading the dough, Lucas thought to himself: if it weren't for needing money to purchase ingredients, he truly wouldn't bother setting up this stall. It was exhausting work. How many peaceful days had passed him by?
As the sun fully emerged on the horizon, Lucas's steamed buns and baozi were placed in the steamer.
He had prepared three varieties of baozi today: cabbage filling, chive filling, and radish filling. The vegetables in the fillings were all grown in his own garden and were exceptionally fresh.
When Lucas initially planted them, he had only cultivated a small plot of each vegetable. He originally thought it would barely suffice for his household, but the vegetable seeds produced by the system proved extraordinary. These vegetables grew with remarkable vigor, producing far more than his family of four could consume.
He had been storing harvested vegetables in the refrigerator daily. When that became full, he placed the excess in his system backpack. By now, he had accumulated substantial reserves and wouldn't need to worry about shortages for quite some time.
Fortunately, he had heeded Diancie's advice to prepare for less abundant times. Otherwise, after the novice period, if the system suddenly ceased supplying ingredients, he might have found himself unprepared.
Although the system had reserved enough ingredients and seasonings for him to use for a month, these supplies were limited primarily to flour for making steamed buns.
Once the baozi and steamed buns were steamed to perfection, Lucas exited the food truck and arranged two tables with several benches outside, providing seating for customers who wished to enjoy their breakfast.
He also placed his homemade pickled radish and spicy chives on each table as complimentary side dishes.
The recipes for pickled radish and spicy chives had been taught to Lucas by his grandfather in his previous life. As a child, he had adored the side dishes his grandfather prepared, but Lucas never quite mastered the technique. Though he learned the methods, the taste always fell slightly short of the original.
As time passed, the enticing aroma of the baozi began wafting around with the steam, attracting even Lucas himself.
My skills are improving! Lucas couldn't help feeling a surge of pride.
Komala, swaying with closed eyes, twitched its nose slightly. It hadn't eaten breakfast either and couldn't help being drawn to the delicious scent.
What's that wonderful smell?
Passersby, exercising youths, elderly dancers, vendors setting up stalls—all involuntarily began searching for the source of the tantalizing aroma.
Finally, they noticed Lucas's stall.
An elderly man holding a fluffy Growlithe approached and inquired, "Young man, what are you selling here? Why does it smell so incredible?"
Lucas replied with a smile, "Sir, I'm selling baozi and steamed buns. Would you like to try some?"
"Baozi? Steamed buns?" The elderly man looked puzzled. "What are those?"
The eating habits of Kalos residents were closer to Western cuisine from Lucas's previous life, especially in the Azoth Kingdom. The old man had never encountered baozi or steamed buns before.
"You'll understand once you try them, sir. I promise you won't be disappointed," Lucas confidently promoted his craftsmanship.
"Very well, I'll give them a try," the elderly man agreed, being quite straightforward.
"Excellent! Would you prefer baozi or steamed buns? How many would you like?" Lucas asked.
"Let me have one of each to sample first. If they're delicious, I'll purchase more," the elderly man proposed.
"Sir, there are three baozi flavors available: cabbage, chives, and radish. Which would you prefer?" Lucas inquired further.
Not knowing which flavor might appeal to him, the elderly man chose randomly, "Let's try... cabbage."
"Perfect!"
Lucas responded enthusiastically and quickly entered the food truck. After opening the steamer, he extracted one steamed bun and one baozi, wrapping each in fresh leaves.
These particular leaves were unique to the Nebel Plateau. They were edible and emitted a subtle fragrance. During times when food became scarce on the Nebel Plateau, these leaves became essential sustenance for Pokémon.
This was why Lucas chose to use them as wrappers for his buns.
Truthfully, the primary reason was that Lucas lacked alternative wrapping materials. Although the system store sold such items, his Happiness Points were running low.
The elderly customer misinterpreted this choice, assuming it reflected Lucas's ingenuity.
The moment the steamer opened, the aroma of the baozi intensified dramatically, eagerly finding its way into people's nostrils.
"Goodness gracious! The fragrance is overwhelming!" The elderly man swallowed involuntarily and couldn't suppress his exclamation.
"Here you are, sir!" Lucas handed the baozi and steamed bun to him.
The elderly man accepted them, glancing at the leaf wrappings. "These are Lum Berry leaves, aren't they? You're quite resourceful, young man. This variety of leaf is exclusive to the Nebel Plateau. Must have been quite an effort to obtain them, correct?"
The elderly man was knowledgeable and immediately recognized the leaves' origin.
"Hehe~" Lucas smiled and gave the elderly man a thumbs up. "You have an excellent eye, sir."
"Hahaha~ Indeed I do!" The elderly man was pleased by Lucas's acknowledgment and couldn't resist boasting a bit. "In my youth, I traveled throughout the region extensively."
As he spoke, the elderly man gently squeezed the baozi and steamed bun, finding them as soft and pillowy as cotton, which looked incredibly appetizing.
"Please try them while they're hot, sir. If you enjoy them, I'd appreciate your continued patronage," Lucas suggested.
"Certainly." With that, the elderly man took a bite of the bun. Instantly, the soft exterior combined with the crisp, refreshing cabbage filling and the hot juice that burst forth all flooded his mouth. Rich flavors entered through his palate and exited via his nostrils. In that moment, the elderly man felt transported to another dimension.
What kind of heavenly delicacy is this?
"Excellent! Delicious! Absolutely divine!"
The elderly man suddenly exclaimed loudly, startling other potential customers who had also been attracted by the aroma.
It was autumn, with the weather growing cooler. Enjoying such a hot, flavorful bun early in the morning was simply beyond description!
Is it truly that delicious? Isn't he exaggerating? Looking at the elderly man's reaction, other customers who hadn't yet tasted the food couldn't help but wonder.
However, experiencing the pervasive aroma, they found themselves increasingly intrigued.
"Young man, give me ten of each—ten of each flavor of baozi," the elderly man announced enthusiastically. As he spoke, he didn't forget to share half of his partially eaten bun with Growlithe.
"Grow~ Growlithe~!" Almost instantly, Growlithe was captivated by the taste.
However, after sampling the steamed bun next, the Pokémon discovered it preferred that option.
Lucas had long observed that even when food prepared according to his own recipes was delicious, it proved far less appealing to Pokémon than steamed buns made following the system's recipes.
Clearly, the system-provided recipes were meticulously crafted regarding methodology, which explained why it was known as the Pokémon Feeding System.
When settling the bill, the elderly man asked, "What's the total cost?"
Lucas replied, "It comes to 330 Poké Dollars, sir. The steamed buns are 10 Poké Dollars each, and the baozi are 20 Poké Dollars each."
Upon hearing this, the elderly man immediately remarked, "Young fellow, it's not inexpensive, but... it's absolutely worth it!" With that, he cheerfully paid the amount.
In truth, considering the ingredients of the buns and steamed buns, selling them for 10 and 20 Poké Dollars respectively was indeed costly, but who could resist their exquisite taste?
Besides, since no one had encountered this type of food before, nobody questioned the pricing. Even those who thought the price high would simply depart without comment.
"Give me one of those... cabbage baozi."
"I'll take two steamed buns, please."
"I'd like a radish-flavored baozi."
...
Following the elderly man's lead, other customers approached one after another, each wanting to purchase one or two to sample with their Pokémon.
After buying just one or two and consuming them, many began regretting not ordering more. When they returned for additional purchases, they found they couldn't even squeeze through the growing crowd.
"Everyone, please don't crowd! Form a line, please form a line!" Lucas called out loudly, finally establishing some semblance of order after considerable effort.
"Attention, please! Complimentary side dishes are available at the tables. They enhance the flavor of the steamed buns," Lucas reminded them.
"Cash only, no electronic payments accepted," Lucas explained while handing buns to customers.
Some people at the back of the line who hadn't brought physical currency could only leave regretfully after hearing this announcement.
Lucas couldn't help the situation. Who would have advised him to establish a bank account?
Komala continuously collected money, appearing somewhat overwhelmed despite its closed eyes. Its perception was remarkably keen—during this time, one or two customers attempted to avoid payment, and it promptly alerted Lucas.
Lucas didn't scold anyone. Instead, those who tried to evade payment became so embarrassed they dropped their money and hurried away.
Although Lucas had confidence in his food, he hadn't anticipated such booming business. He was so busy that he barely had time to breathe, wishing he could grow additional hands.
Misty was on her morning jog. While running, she suddenly detected a faint, enticing aroma. Initially, she intended to ignore it since she was currently dieting, but the scent grew increasingly compelling, causing her to swallow reflexively.
Finally, reaching a corner of the park, she encountered a lengthy queue.
"Excuse me, what are they selling there? Why are there so many people?"
The elderly man had just finished enjoying the buns with his Growlithe and was planning a walk to aid digestion. Advanced age meant eating too much without exercise could easily lead to discomfort. He still carried half a remaining bun, intending to take it home for his wife to sample while still warm.
At this moment, Misty approached him.
"Oh~ They're selling baozi and steamed buns. They're incredibly aromatic and delicious!" the elderly man responded, still savoring the experience.
As he spoke, he gestured with the bun in front of Misty, releasing a rich fragrance that caused her to swallow hard.
Baozi? Steamed buns? What are those? Misty felt her legs moving of their own accord. When she regained awareness, she found herself holding two white, plump buns.
Where am I? What just happened? Misty wondered as she took a substantial bite of the bun.
Forget dieting for now. I'll definitely return for more tomorrow! After finishing, Misty found herself craving more.
I'll run extra laps to compensate for this indulgence.
Not far from Lucas's stall was another vendor—a middle-aged man selling crepes. Also in the food business, he observed Lucas's thriving trade with undisguised envy.
"Slurpuff, do you think those things called baozi and steamed buns are truly that delicious?" the man asked his partner Pokémon.
"Stuf????"
Slurpuff appeared startled by the question and quickly averted its eager gaze, hastily wiping suspicious moisture from the corner of its mouth.
"Hey, hey, hey!!" the man exclaimed. "You were just drooling while looking at their stall, weren't you?"
"Slur~ Slurpuff~~" What are you talking about? I wasn't. Don't make false accusations.
Slurpuff vehemently denied it.
"You still claim you didn't? I saw it clearly!" the man responded, looking heartbroken. "You've never salivated over my crepes like that!"
"Slur~ Slurpuff~~" Don't you recognize your own skill level? Compare their customers to yours. Isn't the difference obvious?
Slurpuff rolled its eyes while secretly sniffing the air again. It smells incredible. I really want to try one.
The man felt wounded by Slurpuff's attitude. Muttering under his breath, he walked toward Lucas's stall. "Today I'll see just how delicious these really are. I refuse to believe the hype!"
"Slurpuff~~" Don't forget to bring me back a portion!
Slurpuff called after him.
Soon, the man returned with portions of both baozi and steamed buns. However, after sampling them, he squatted in a corner, visibly dejected.
"They actually are that delicious... they genuinely are that incredible..." he mumbled, absently drawing circles on the ground with a stick.
Slurpuff finished the last bite of its steamed bun and approached to pat the man consolingly on the back.
"Slur~~ Slurpuff~~" Get back to work. Your skills aren't comparable to his, and you're not as diligent. It's no wonder your business doesn't match his.
The man remained silent, shoulders slumped in resignation.