Thursday, November 8th.
With Squirtle's training finally complete, Natsume officially began preparing for his move to Celadon University.
Currently, the sales of the Pokémon Trading Card Game were booming, making his future salary at Celadon University seem almost insignificant in comparison.
However, since he had already promised Erika, and his travel expenses would be reimbursed by the Former Principal, Natsume, despite his tendency to overthink and his occasional bad luck, was a man of his word.
"Hmm… Kanto isn't too far from Sinnoh. Maybe I can even meet up with Cynthia for some offline gaming," Natsume nodded to himself.
Of course, he also needed to avoid running into Red, the legendary Trainer.
If Red ever came knocking, Natsume's journey might end before it even began!
Natsume's visa for the Kanto League was personally handled by the Former Principal.
Given Tokyo Metropolitan University's reputation and Natsume's own strategic prowess, winning a League Championship seemed well within his reach.
However, while processing the Trainer Visa, Hiroshi stumbled upon something surprising.
Principal Hiroshi's expression turned incredulous: "This kid… isn't even a registered Trainer?"
Natsume, the Tokaido Region Champion, was still just a casual enthusiast?!
Typically, students from the Training Department would register for a Trainer License, which was essential for challenging Gyms and enjoying discounts at Pokémon Centers and Poké Marts.
But as the Former Principal thought about it, he realized that all of Natsume's previous matches had been invitation-based. Plus, as a Finance Department student, no one had ever brought up the topic of registering for a Trainer License.
"This is ridiculous…" Hiroshi muttered to himself before bringing it up with Natsume.
Natsume's expression turned odd.
Registering for a Trainer License would give him discounts at Poké Marts?
Why didn't anyone tell him sooner?!
He could have saved a fortune on Squirtle's Potions alone!
Feeling like he had missed out on a golden opportunity, Natsume lamented, "Is it too late to register now?"
"That's actually why I called you," Principal Hiroshi said. "Your visa requires you to register for a Trainer License."
"It doesn't matter what level it is, as long as you pass the evaluation."
According to Principal Hiroshi, Touran's Trainer Licenses were divided into Beginner, Elite, Veteran, Professional, Gym, and Master levels.
Due to the visa requirements, Natsume needed to visit the Trainer Association as soon as possible to complete the evaluation.
The process was straightforward.
The Pokémon Association in Tokyo could process it within three days.
Natsume thought for a moment and decided to reach out to President Shoya of the Tokyo Association for some… special arrangements.
...
"President Shoya, can I come over today to evaluate for a Trainer License?" Natsume asked.
Receiving Natsume's private call, Shoya nodded. "Of course. Takuya happens to be free this afternoon and will serve as the examiner."
"What level are you planning to test for?"
Given Natsume's impressive performance in the Tokaido Region, Shoya was certain that Natsume was at least at the Professional level.
Even if Natsume were to take the Master-level evaluation, Shoya wouldn't be surprised.
After all… who's to say Natsume hadn't already reached Master level in other leagues?
"Beginner," Natsume said.
"Oh, sure," Shoya instinctively checked the box for "Master Level" before suddenly freezing.
"Wait, what did you just say? I didn't catch that."
"Beginner," Natsume repeated. "Is that not allowed?"
He just needed the license for the visa.
Since he wouldn't be returning to Tokyo anytime soon, the higher-level discounts wouldn't be of much use.
A Beginner License would be much easier to obtain than going through a Professional-level review, right?
Shoya's expression turned strange.
The Tokaido Region Champion was coming to take a Beginner-level evaluation?
Is there something wrong with you, or is there something wrong with me?
But then, Shoya recalled Natsume's victory in the Piplup Cup.
Natsume's tendency to defy expectations wasn't exactly new…
"Alright, then. Come over this afternoon, and I'll arrange the exam for you," Shoya said dryly. "You're not planning to use Gengar for a Beginner-level exam, are you?"
"Of course not," Natsume replied, sounding surprised. "Do you think I'm that heartless?"
Since it was a Beginner-level exam, sending out Togepi should be fine.
Using Gengar would be… well, even Natsume felt that would be too cruel.
Shoya sighed. "Just take it easy, okay? Don't traumatize the other contestants!"
"Don't worry," Natsume patted his chest. "I'm a professional at this."
"Huh?"
"I mean, I'll show proper respect to my opponents!"
...
That afternoon, Natsume arrived at the Tokyo Association to take the Beginner-level evaluation.
The evaluation was straightforward: a 1v1 single battle between two participants.
Those who recognized Natsume were utterly baffled.
"The Tokaido Region Champion?"
"What's he doing in a Beginner-level field?"
"Oh no, he's here to battle!"
This unexpected turn of events left the audience wide-eyed.
However, some viewers who were familiar with Natsume-sensei nodded thoughtfully.
"This is so on-brand for Natsume-sensei…"
Even the examiner looked pained as he coughed and said, "Let's get this over with quickly!"
Natsume's opponent was a freshman from Kyoto Institute of Technology named Morikawa.
Morikawa's first choice had been Tokyo Metropolitan University, largely because of Natsume-sensei, the "Pride of Tokyo Metropolitan University."
When Morikawa saw Natsume-sensei send out Togepi, he was deeply moved.
"Thank you for going easy on me!" Morikawa said.
"I won't hold back," Natsume replied seriously.
Morikawa was taken aback but shook his head and commanded, "Doduo, Fury Attack!"
The two-headed Doduo stretched its necks, its sharp beaks pecking toward Togepi.
But before Doduo could reach Togepi, the little Pokémon had already started wagging its finger.
Flash!
Out of all the possible moves, Togepi had to roll a status move.
Natsume's mood turned subtle.
Was his bad luck really contagious?
A blinding light flashed, causing Doduo to pause mid-attack and let out a pained cry.
Even Natsume was momentarily stunned.
As the light faded, scorch marks were visible on Doduo's body.
"Using Flash to mask the activation of Dazzling Gleam and throw off my judgment…" Morikawa muttered to himself. "As expected of Natsume-sensei!"
Natsume's expression turned odd.
That was entirely Togepi's own doing!
Taking advantage of Doduo's disorientation, a cloud of Toxic Mist spread from Togepi's horn, enveloping Doduo.
In an instant, Doduo was Poisoned!
The audience gasped.
Wasn't this Natsume-sensei's signature "SubProtect Toxic" strategy?
Even Togepi, such an adorable Pokémon, could be trained to fight like a sneaky veteran?!
This was so… Natsume-sensei!
After a few more rounds, Doduo collapsed in defeat.
Togepi happily hopped around, turning to Natsume with a cute smile.
"Togepi doo-ee~~"
Natsume looked up at the sky.
This strategy… why did it feel so familiar?
This level of sneakiness had to be Gengar's doing!
"There are still a few small details you need to work on," Natsume whispered. "You failed the double Protect earlier."
"Remember, you have to Protect without Protecting the Protect. That's the key…"
As Natsume imparted his wisdom, Togepi's eyes began to shine with understanding.
...
While Natsume was busy commanding Togepi in battle, Gengar, feeling bored, wandered over to the Professional-level evaluation area to watch the matches.
Takuya, who had come to serve as an examiner, immediately recognized his old acquaintance.
Sitting down beside Gengar, Takuya asked curiously, "Where's Natsume?"
"Gengar!" Gengar pointed to the adjacent battlefield.
Takuya's expression turned complicated as he recalled the rumors he'd just heard.
So, the "shameless" Trainer everyone was talking about was none other than Natsume!
Seeing the eager look in Gengar's eyes, Takuya had an idea and smiled. "Just watching isn't much fun. Why don't you join in and battle?"
"Gengar?"
"Since someone forfeited, another Trainer can't participate in the evaluation. Natsume could step in…"
As he spoke, Takuya glanced toward the edge of the field, where a young man with a frustrated expression stood.
Shouta, who had won second place at the South Japan Convention in Kawasaki.
Since Shouta's household registration was in Tokyo, he had to return here to take the evaluation.
These two facing off… would make for a fairly evenly matched battle in the Professional-level evaluation, right?
"Gengar!" Hearing this, Gengar's eyes lit up.
This was a great opportunity to train everyone.
Surely, Trainer wouldn't miss this chance!
Watching Gengar hurry off, Takuya chuckled and walked over to Shouta.
...
Shouta was already in a bad mood after his opponent forfeited, leaving him unable to complete his evaluation.
When Takuya proposed the idea, Shouta feigned surprise. "A match against the Tokaido Region Champion?"
Takuya nodded. "A 2v2 single battle, which is the format for the Professional-level evaluation."
As for Natsume…
Shouta crossed his arms, sneering inwardly.
This seemed like a great opportunity to prove his strength to the media.
If he could defeat the Tokaido Champion, his endorsement deals would surely skyrocket.
This stepping stone was his for the taking!
"Please let Natsume know," Shouta said with a bright smile, "that I deeply admire him and would love to have a good match!"
Takuya nodded.
Challenging a strong opponent was indeed in line with the spirit of a young Trainer.
"Gengar has already gone to fetch Natsume," Takuya said with a smile. "Consider this your Professional Trainer License evaluation. Be ready."
...
Dragged along by Gengar, Natsume jogged over to the Professional-level evaluation area.
Everyone turned to look at the legendary Tokaido Region Champion.
Under their gazes, Natsume's expression turned complicated.
Well, well, were you planning to sneak into the Professional-level matches?
Takuya approached and introduced Shouta to Natsume. "This is Shouta, the runner-up of the South Japan Convention. Due to an unexpected forfeit, his evaluation opponent dropped out…"
"Since you're here, I thought you could step in as his opponent. It'll count as part of the Professional-level evaluation."
Shouta smiled warmly and shook Natsume's hand. "Natsume, I'm really looking forward to our duel!"
Natsume frowned.
He had already obtained his Beginner-level Trainer License, which was enough for his visa.
Participating in the Professional-level evaluation didn't seem to offer much benefit.
Takuya added, "By the way, Professional Trainers receive an annual subsidy of 500,000 yen. It's not much, but it's better than nothing…"
Natsume's heart skipped a beat.
Looking at Shouta, who was now wearing an awkward smile, Natsume declared righteously, "Money isn't important. I just love helping people!"
"Thank you so much!" Shouta said with a bright smile, though inwardly, he grew even more mocking.
After I win, I'll make sure the media spreads the news far and wide!
A Champion losing to a runner-up… that'll make for a great headline.
The two walked toward the battlefield.
The surrounding Trainers watched with curiosity.
"Is that the Tokaido Champion facing off against the runner-up from South Japan?"
"A clash of titans!"
"Runner-up? Isn't Natsume-sensei just bullying babies?"
Shouta's smile stiffened as he threw out his Poké Ball. "Go, Crawdaunt!"
The crimson-armored Crawdaunt, its body covered in layered shells, looked particularly menacing with its clacking pincers.
At the South Japan Convention, this Crawdaunt had repeatedly one-shot opponents with Guillotine.
For this 2v2 single battle, Shouta had brought out his ace right from the start!
"Doesn't look that strong…" Natsume muttered. "But I should still show some respect."
"Go, Squirtle!"
As the Squirtle wearing sunglasses took the field, the Trainers in the audience looked confused.
"Wait, he's using a first-stage Pokémon?"
"Have you guys not watched Natsume-sensei's matches?"
"Oh crap, I remember now! That Squirtle is ridiculously strong!"
The chatter reached Shouta's ears, but he only sneered inwardly.
Strong?
How strong could a Squirtle possibly be?
"Crawdaunt, Crabhammer!" Shouta commanded.
With its Hyper Cutter ability, Crawdaunt's Crabhammer surged with incredible force, aiming a punch straight at Squirtle's face.
Squirtle didn't dodge or flinch, not even blinking as it calmly waited for Natsume's command.
It's a lobster, but its big move is Crabhammer?
Natsume's eye twitched. "Squirtle, Ice Punch!"
Even if it's not very effective.
Against an opponent of this level, just knock them out!
"Squirtle!"
Squirtle's eyes gleamed as icy crystals formed around its fist, and it charged head-on toward Crawdaunt.
Shouta inwardly mocked.
Using Squirtle's pitiful Attack stat to go toe-to-toe with a Crawdaunt known for its Machamp-like strength? Ridiculous…
Boom!!
A powerful gust of wind erupted.
Crawdaunt was sent flying, tumbling across the ground several times before finally coming to a stop.
Shouta was stunned.
What just happened?
Crawdaunt… was knocked out by a Squirtle?!
"What the heck?! That's a Hyper Cutter ability!"
"Is this Squirtle actually a Machamp in disguise?!"
Squirtle frowned slightly and shook its fist.
Hmm… even though it's weak.
It's still worth going all out!
A powerful aura began to gather around Squirtle.
Blue energy condensed in its palms, forming a dazzling sphere of light.
The audience, and even Leader Takuya, gasped in shock.
This Squirtle… knows Aura Sphere?!
"Squirtle!"
Squirtle clasped its hands together, unleashing a classic "Hadouken" that sent a powerful shockwave rippling through the air.
Surrounded by the surging aura, Crawdaunt let out a panicked cry.
The energy sphere exploded, dealing super-effective damage!
Boom!!
Crawdaunt was blasted into the barrier, already knocked out.
The sheer power of the Aura Sphere, even at its basic level, left the Trainers in the audience speechless.
This level of strength… anyone who faced it would be completely crushed!
Shouta's smile froze on his face, now tinged with embarrassment.
A Squirtle… that knows Aura Sphere?
This has to be his ace Pokémon!
Not letting Squirtle evolve to lull opponents into a false sense of security… is this the Tokaido Champion's strategy?
How devious!
Natsume's expression turned odd.
Crawdaunt, with its double weakness to Fighting-type moves, might have been completely obliterated.
I'm not paying for the medical bills!
"Ahem… are you still going to battle?" Natsume coughed, reminding Shouta.
Shouta gulped and glanced at Natsume with difficulty.
It's… it's fine.
I still have a chance to turn this around!
Shouta took a deep breath and threw out another Poké Ball. "Go, Poliwrath!"
Poliwrath's muscles bulged as it glared menacingly at Squirtle.
"Water Absorb ability?" Natsume muttered after checking his Pokédex. "No wonder…"
For a normal Squirtle, there wouldn't be many effective moves.
But… just how many tricks did Natsume's Squirtle have up its sleeve?
Even Natsume himself wasn't entirely sure…
"Squirtle," Natsume commanded. "Skull Bash!"
This was a move Squirtle had learned after completing its training.
Theoretically, Squirtle was already strong enough to evolve twice and become a Blastoise.
But this guy was overly cautious… and was still holding onto an Everstone.
"Squirtle!"
Squirtle leapt into the air, tucking its head in.
It shot toward the muscular Poliwrath like a cannonball, creating a shockwave that rippled through the air.
This wasn't Skull Bash… this was a literal rocket launch!
Shouta's face paled as he shouted, "Poliwrath, grab it!"
As Squirtle came crashing down, Poliwrath's face turned ashen.
How am I supposed to catch this with my bare hands?!
Can you even catch a Skull Bash?!
Boom!!
A deafening crash echoed through the arena.
The entire battlefield shook, and bits of debris fell from the ceiling.
Takuya looked up at the trembling arena and quietly wiped the sweat from his brow.
Natsume's Pokémon…
They really are something else!
Looking at Poliwrath, now clutching its stomach and pale-faced, Shouta's lips trembled.
Is this guy even human?
He instantly defeated both of my Pokémon…
Is the Tokaido Region really this strong?
And here I thought I could use him as a stepping stone…
"The runner-up of the South Kyushu Championship… is this weak?"
"No, it's just that Natsume-sensei is too strong!"
"True… Natsume-sensei is even willing to give him advice. What a role model!"
Hearing the murmurs around him, Shouta's face turned red and white in embarrassment.
Natsume stepped forward and shook his hand. "Good match."
Shouta felt a surge of humiliation but forced a smile. "Thanks…"
"Squirtle."
Squirtle rubbed its head, deep in thought.
If its shell gets damaged, it can use a Full Restore to heal…
But what about its head? Should it be even more careful?
Seeing Squirtle lost in thought, Natsume's expression turned odd.
Against such a weak opponent, I shouldn't have sent out Squirtle.
I could've just sent out Growlithe and won with type advantage!
"Congratulations, Natsume," Takuya said with a smile, handing over a small badge and certificate. "This is the symbol of a Professional Trainer. It also represents Touran Trainers in other leagues."
Natsume nodded.
With this, the visa issue was finally resolved.
Natsume took the badge and pinned it on Gengar.
"Huh, it looks pretty good!" Natsume said in surprise.
"Gengar!"
Gengar was momentarily stunned but then grinned.
Keep training everyone…
Is that what Trainer expects of me?
I, Gengar, will keep doing my best!
"Also… Professional Trainers can apply for advanced Technical Machines from the Association," Takuya added with a smile. "I'm free right now. I'll take you there later!"
Under the envious gazes of the other Trainers, Natsume's expression changed.
Takuya, you didn't mention this earlier!
I'm about to start processing my visa, and you're still pulling tricks on me?
Natsume: "You're something else, Gym Leader Takuya."
Takuya laughed heartily. "Don't mention it. You earned it!"
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