Qiandongnan, Guizhou—a region nestled deep within the mountains, where the verdant peaks roll like waves and rivers meander gracefully through the landscape. Dotted across this remote paradise is a charming mountain village, a serene haven almost untouched by the modern world.
Life in this village flows gently, like a peaceful stream. Yellow dogs bark playfully alongside crowing roosters at dawn. Cicadas sing from high in the trees, and frogs croak in harmony near the creeks. Plumes of cooking smoke curl into the sky, painting slow brushstrokes against the lush green canvas of the hills. The entire village feels like a living watercolor—natural, unspoiled, and tranquil.
Willow branches sway lazily outside windows, appearing as though they were placed by an invisible hand, adding the final touch to a divine landscape. It is a masterpiece painted not by man, but by nature itself.
Yet, this tranquil rhythm of life was gently interrupted by the arrival of a group of strangers. Their appearance stirred curiosity among the villagers. Who were these people, carrying cameras and wires, chatting excitedly as they walked the narrow paths?
They didn't look like locals. Dressed in comfortable, modern clothes, they seemed like urban dwellers who had accidentally wandered into this untouched haven. At first, they felt out of place, like tourists in a sacred shrine. But as they moved further into the village, something shifted. The natural beauty around them softened their presence, blending them into the scenery like blooming flowers among wild herbs.
It was like pairing seafood with mountain spices—abalone with wild vanilla. An unexpected combination, but surprisingly delightful.
At the head of this group was a slightly chubby man in his forties, with refined features that hinted at youthful handsomeness. Behind him walked a slender man with a warm smile and gentle energy, exuding the kind of calm that made others feel instantly comfortable.
Trailing close behind was a cheerful young woman with a petite frame and a soft, rounded face. Her warm smile radiated joy and curiosity—like the girl next door, bubbling with youthful charm.
Next came a tall young man with defined features and a reserved, steady aura. He carried himself with the calm and confidence of someone far older than his years. Following him was another young man with a playful air, his eyes bright with both mischief and brilliance. He looked like a boy genius trapped in the body of a lovable goofball.
The rest of the group was made up of crew members, busy handling filming equipment, cables, and documentation.
Together, they made up the heart of the show, exploring simple countryside life while forming bonds with each other and nature.
"This place is incredible! And the air—so fresh!" exclaimed Tierno, spinning around with a beaming smile. She breathed deeply, her eyes sparkling with excitement.
May and Red exchanged fond glances at her reaction.
"You're right. Breathe in all you want," May said, grinning. "Clean air like this is hard to come by these days."
Red added with a nod, "If I could breathe air like this every day, I'd live to be a hundred."
"Really?" Helbert chimed in from the back, eyes wide with innocent wonder.
"Absolutely!" Red chuckled. "Mountain air is rich in negative ions—it helps circulation, boosts immunity… nature's own spa treatment."
"Then I'm going to breathe until I float!" declared Helbert, puffing out his cheeks and taking exaggerated breaths. The others burst into laughter at his antics.
Steven Stone turned to him, patting his back lightly. "You've got a long road ahead, Helbert. No need to start preserving your health this early."
"But wouldn't it be great if we could stretch life a little longer?" Helbert asked, still taking deep breaths.
Steven smirked and faced the camera crew. "That's why I always recommend Tiano Honey Milk Tea. Packed with essential nutrients—it's the ultimate drink for a healthier life!"
Helbert gasped in mock surprise. "Bro! That ad came out of nowhere. You're smoother than a Clefairy!"
Everyone laughed again.
"All right, time to keep moving!" Red clapped. "We've still got a bit of a hike. The road is too narrow for cars, so it's all on foot from here."
They continued along the winding mountain path, zigzagging past green hedges and terraced fields. After about half an hour of walking, the crew finally arrived at the entrance of Pallet town —their new home for the season and the site of the newest Mushroom House.
The rustic houses, curling chimney smoke, and scent of firewood stirred something nostalgic in each of them. Compared to the chaos of the city, this place felt like another world—quiet, warm, and inviting.
Just as they were about to enter the village square, a sudden rustling came from the bushes nearby.
"What was that?" Tierno asked, startled, instinctively stepping closer to Red.
"Don't worry," Red said, offering comfort. "Probably a squirrel or maybe a cat."
Tierno's curiosity took over her fear. She tilted her head, peering into the brush.
Then May smirked. "Or maybe it's a snake... or a rat?"
"Ahh!" Tierno squealed, quickly retreating behind Red.
"May! Don't scare her like that," Red scolded, chuckling under his breath.
Steven added, "What if she really faints? That's on you."
Unbothered by the teasing, Helbert stepped forward heroically. "Don't worry, everyone. I got this."
Just as he reached for the bush, May suddenly shouted, "Careful! It's a snake!"
Helbert jumped back, tripping over his own feet. Tierno screamed, and everyone froze for a split second—before they saw May's mischievous grin.
"Teacher May!" the group exclaimed in unison, glaring at her playfully.
Still grinning, May shrugged. "Couldn't resist."
Helbert, now laughing along, dusted himself off and crouched beside the bush again. "Alright, let's really see what's in there."
As he gently pushed aside the leaves, a familiar sound echoed from within:
"Pikachu~! Pikachu~!"
Silence fell over the group.
Everyone turned to each other with wide eyes.
"…Did we just hear what I think we heard?" Steven asked slowly.
Tierno nodded, her eyes gleaming with awe. "No way. Pikachu? Here?"
Red's jaw dropped slightly, something rare for the calm leader. "This changes everything…"
And just like that, the real adventure was about to begin.