Eric's tone of eager anticipation was so obvious that even Geeta, on the other end of the phone, couldn't help but sense it.
'It seemed like someone was feeling the pinch of financial stress' Geeta's lips curled into a knowing smile as she said slowly, "No need to rush. Naranja Academy is currently on break, and classes won't start until spring, about a month from now."
"This gives you just enough time to complete the initial construction on your farm and move one step closer to your dream."
"As for the Tera Orb, the Lighthouse Research Station in South Province Area One, run by Professors Sada and Turo, is close to Cascarrafa. I'll take care of the costs and arrangements, but such a precious item would be safest delivered by you personally."
[Host, don't you feel like this woman has... ulterior motives?]
Eric's smile froze momentarily, and he awkwardly responded in his mind. 'You think I'm stupid? I've seen more schemes than you've probably had hosts. I know what she's after. But fair is fair, and I'm jumping into this willingly!'
'Do you even understand the value of a cushy government teaching job with just two classes a week and a decent paycheck? This is every overworked worker's dream besides outright retirement!'
The system went silent for a moment before interjecting with a sulky: [Well, I've always worked 24/7, so I wouldn't know, I hope that I also get some benefits]
Eric: …
Not knowing how to respond to that, Eric shook his head and got back to business.
He professionally confirmed the job details with Geeta, including the start date, salary, and other benefits. Only after she hung up did Eric allow himself to cheer.
"Yes!"
Not only had he solved his utility bill problems, but he'd even have leftover funds to spare.
Geeta had promised him a monthly salary of 50,000 Pokédollars, even during the probation period. The workload was light, and Eric couldn't have been more satisfied.
Sure, it might not align perfectly with the status of a Champion-level Trainer, but Eric had long since stopped caring about appearances. Tasks that required flaunting his title usually came with equally annoying responsibilities.
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With the regional economy fairly balanced, the prices of Pokémon-related goods such as Poké Balls were higher than in the games he'd played before his reincarnation but still affordable for the average person.
The land Eric had purchased, located at the edge of the wild with mountain, river, and forest access, had cost him only 2,000,000 Pokédollars a steal compared to the exorbitant prices in major cities like Lumiose or Motostoke.
As Eric mulled over his farm's future layout while holding the Tera Orb Raw Core, a question crossed his mind.
"By the way, do you have a system space or storage feature?"
Such a valuable item felt risky to keep on him, but leaving it unattended at home wasn't any better.
[Sorry... I don't have those functions.]
For some reason, the system's response felt... almost Embarrassed.
Sighing, Eric decided not to press the issue. Instead, he began rummaging through the boxes for a solution.
"I think there was a small bag in here somewhere..."
After some searching, Eric's eyes lit up as he found a sturdy, handwoven satchel. Likely crafted by the late couple who once lived here, the bag was simple but practical.
Being pragmatic, Eric didn't feel any discomfort using the belongings of the deceased. He carefully placed the Tera Orb Raw Core into the satchel, adjusted the straps, and slung it securely across his chest.
"That'll do for now. Time to head into town and grab some supplies."
---
Under a starry sky illuminated by the soft glow of the moon, a gust of wind swept through the farm.
An orange blur descended from above, accompanied by the slightly exasperated voice of a young man.
"Slow down, Dragonite! You've got tonight's dinner on you!"
Eric pushed open the broken gate to his soon-to-be farm while a muscular Luxray followed, its back laden with supplies.
"Luuu~" (I am sorry!)
A deep, gentle call echoed as a round-bodied Dragonite shuffled nervously behind them, its small wings flapping guiltily.
Eric sighed, immediately guessing what was going through Dragonite's head. It wasn't his speed he was annoyed about it was the risk of breaking the fragile bottles and containers Dragonite was carrying.
'How had the clever little Dratini he'd raised evolved into such an overeager oaf?'
Still, as Dragonite extended its arms in a sheepish plea for forgiveness, Eric couldn't stay mad. He thought of the days when it was just a tiny Pokémon hatching from its egg and let out a resigned sigh, giving Dragonite a light hug.
"Alright, you're forgiven. Now let's get to work."
Eric took the bundles of household goods from Luxray's back, which he'd need for the night. Dragonite, meanwhile, carried the food supplies and seasonings.
"Luxray, Dragonite, head around back and find Aegislash hand over the food, and he'll take it from there," Eric instructed.
"Rawr!"
"Luuu!"
The two Pokémon answered enthusiastically before bounding off toward Aegislash, who was already prepping for the night's feast.
The mental image of sizzling, perfectly grilled skewers filled their minds. Coated in spices, dripping with juices, and served steaming hot just the thought had them salivating.
----
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