Fragrant Herb House

Lavaridge Town's streets were not wide, but they were very clean. Most of the buildings on both sides were built from the local reddish-brown volcanic rock, with dark roof tiles that gave them an ancient, solid appearance.

Heat-resistant vines climbed the walls of many houses, dotted with tiny red or yellow blossoms.

The roadside vendors had already begun business, selling all kinds of volcanic specialties: small ornaments carved from volcanic rock, glass bottles filled with colorful mineral sand, dried volcanic herbs, and all sorts of Berries—many of them special varieties adapted to grow in high-temperature environments.

"Eevee! (◕ᴗ◕✿)" (Xinhai, that red fruit looks so delicious!) Eevee pointed a little paw at a stall piled high with bright-red Berries shaped somewhat like tiny lanterns, its eyes sparkling.

"That's a Tamato Berry. It only grows in the high-temperature regions of volcanic areas. It tastes rather spicy, but it's rich in Fire-type energy and is a favorite Berry of many Fire-type Pokémon," Xinhai explained with a smile. Still, he walked over and bought a small bag. "But Eevee, are you sure you want to try one? It might be a little spicy."

"Eevee!" (Of course!) Eevee nodded hard, looking eager to give it a try.

Xinhai took one from the bag, carefully peeled away its thin skin to reveal the orange-red flesh inside, and held it up to Eevee's mouth.

Eevee took a small bite. Instantly, its little face scrunched up and its ears flattened back.

"Eevee! Hah! Hah!" (So spicy! But... the flavor is so special!) Eevee stuck out its little tongue and puffed out several breaths, yet its eyes only shone brighter. It leaned in for another small bite and chewed slowly, seemingly getting used to the fiery taste.

"Gardevoir~" (Eat slowly.) Gardevoir used Psychic type power to float over a