Chapter 40: Chapter 40: Can First-Years Take the Preliminary Professional Trainer Exam?
Chapter 40: Can First-Years Take the Preliminary Professional Trainer Exam?
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If Charmeleon was the warrior, Kirlia the mage or support, then Frogadier, with its speed and high special attack, was the assassin.
Frogadier cleverly utilized its speed advantage, starting the match with Double Team, followed by Aerial Ace, creating numerous problems for Charmeleon.
However, Charmeleon was no pushover. It abandoned defense entirely, taking advantage of Frogadier's close-range tactics. When Frogadier moved in to strike, Charmeleon seized the opportunity.
Its glowing Dragon Claw struck Frogadier directly, leading to a simultaneous exchange of blows.
Throughout the match, Hikaru refrained from issuing any commands, allowing the Pokémon to rely on their instincts and experience.
The results were significant.
Frogadier utilized its speed advantage but underestimated Charmeleon's close-combat prowess. It failed to recognize that Charmeleon had learned fighting-type moves and thrived in close-range combat.
Furthermore, Charmeleon had been trained alongside Hikaru for much longer. Before every battle, it analyzed opponents' strengths and weaknesses, capitalizing on its own advantages.
Moreover, Charmeleon's Life Flame ability made it extraordinarily resilient. It could endure Frogadier's relentless Aerial Ace attacks.
Sensing the tide turning, Hikaru called an end to the battle, declaring it a draw.
Frogadier, though initially reluctant, accepted the outcome with grace, realizing its shortcomings.
As the saying goes, "Only by facing defeat can one become a true warrior."
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Ringtone: "You're just too beautiful..."
Hikaru's phone rang, interrupting his thoughts.
"Hello?"
"Hi, Hikaru, it's Yuki!"
Hikaru was surprised; he hadn't expected her to call.
Though they had exchanged texts recently, Hikaru, being utterly focused on his Pokémon training, wasn't one to indulge in distractions.
Many of his replies were curt: "Mm," "Okay," "Got it."
"Have you signed up for the Preliminary Professional Trainer exam yet?" Yuki asked eagerly.
Hikaru blinked. "Huh? Not yet."
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The Professional Trainer system was divided into four levels:
1. Preliminary Professional Trainer (requires at least one Pokémon at the Elite level).
2. Professional Trainer (requires at least one Pokémon at the Gym Leader level).
3. Advanced Professional Trainer (requires at least one Pokémon at the King level).
4. Master Professional Trainer (requires at least one Pokémon at the Champion level).
Though optional, these qualifications were highly sought after by trainers. Access to certain secret realms and wilderness zones often required corresponding certifications.
"Then let's go together!" Yuki said enthusiastically.
Hikaru thought for a moment. He needed to register Frogadier's details at the Alliance anyway, so he agreed.
"Alright, how about three days from now?"
"Perfect! See you at the school gates in three days!" Yuki chimed, hanging up before Hikaru could respond.
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Three days later.
As expected, Hikaru was the last to arrive.
Even though he had left early, his morning ritual of activating this week's entry had delayed him.
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[Green Entry: Night Vision]
Effect: Enables clear vision in even the darkest environments.
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Though not particularly groundbreaking, it was a handy entry. Hikaru decided to save it for potential emergencies.
His current entry coin balance was 892, just shy of the 1,000 needed for the Bone Spirit Cold Flame.
Charmeleon's next moment of glory was within reach.
What's more, Hikaru noticed his physical strength improving over time. This likely stemmed from the mystical bond he had formed with Charmeleon and Kirlia.
Currently, he could single-handedly lift a 200-pound sledgehammer—a feat he couldn't have dreamed of before.
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"Over here, Hikaru!"
Yuki's cheerful voice snapped him out of his thoughts.
Hikaru turned to see Yuki waving at him, her radiant appearance leaving him momentarily stunned.
Today, she had clearly put extra effort into her appearance. Her silver hair cascaded like snow over her shoulders, her delicate features enhanced by a touch of makeup.
She wore a pristine white blouse adorned with a sky-blue ribbon, paired with a pink skirt and thigh-high white stockings, which accentuated her slender legs.
Hikaru couldn't help but marvel at how stunning she looked.
"Staring, are we?" Yuki teased, noticing his gaze.
Hikaru coughed awkwardly. "You look… really nice."
Yuki beamed, her smile as radiant as ever. "Thanks! Shall we head to the Alliance?"
"Sure."
Her cheerful demeanor didn't waver as they made their way to the Pokémon Alliance, chatting casually along the way.
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Upon arriving at the Alliance, they were greeted by a familiar receptionist—the same one who had helped Hikaru during his last visit.
The receptionist teased upon seeing Yuki, "Bringing your girlfriend to register Froakie details?"
This remark turned Yuki's cheeks crimson. She quickly waved her hands, denying it.
Hikaru stepped in to defuse the situation. "Actually, it's Frogadier's now."
"Frogadier?"
Summoning Frogadier, Hikaru revealed its evolved form, now a sleek black.
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The receptionist's exclamation drew the attention of everyone in the lobby.
"A Frogadier!?"
"Whoa, a shiny Frogadier at that! Look at its gaze and aura—it's like a seasoned Ninja Master!"
"Wait… isn't that Hikaru from the High School League? The one who won first place? My sister's a huge fan!"
"Man, he's got a Charmeleon, a Kirlia, and now a Frogadier? This guy's definitely on the path to becoming a Pokemon Master!"
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The commotion quickly escalated as fans recognized Hikaru, many clamoring for his autograph.
"Sorry about that," the receptionist said, hastily speeding up the registration process.
"No worries. Could you also sign us up for the Preliminary Trainer exam?" Hikaru asked.
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Next Chapter: The Preliminary Professional Trainer Exam Begins!
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