Not far from the forest stood a special Pokémon Center. Unlike the ones in towns, this one was more like a school.
Here, trainers could take exams—covering Pokémon knowledge, battle strategy, and even medical care. Passing these tests would earn them an official League badge, a symbol of skill and prestige across the regions.
That afternoon, a helicopter descended onto the landing pad, immediately drawing attention from the crowd. People craned their necks, whispering about who could be important enough to arrive by helicopter. When the hatch opened, a young man in a cap stepped out, followed by three striking women.
"Whoa, look—it's Master Ash!"
"No way, that's really him!"
"He's even more handsome in person… the presence he gives off is overwhelming!"
"Wait, isn't that Champion Cynthia from the Sinnoh region walking behind him?"
"And the one floating in the air—that's Sabrina, the Psychic-type Gym Leader from Saffron City!"
"Then the last one must be Suzie, the famous breeder!"
The moment Ash and the three women appeared, the crowd erupted into hushed excitement. Some fans even tried to approach for autographs, but the Pokémon Center manager quickly stepped in, nervous under the weight of such distinguished guests.
"Master Ash, we warmly welcome you, as well as Miss Cynthia, Miss Sabrina, and Miss Suzie!" said a middle-aged man in a blue jumpsuit, wearing a badge with the League's insignia.
Ash smiled politely. "Don't worry, we didn't come here for an inspection. I'm just here to take the exam. Since the Dark Gym doesn't exist anymore, I had to adjust my plans and come here to get my pass for the Conference—same as everyone else. No need to treat me differently."
Still, as he followed the official inside, it was clear Ash was given certain privileges. He didn't need to line up, for instance—something he didn't mind at all, since he'd never liked waiting in long queues.
"Master Ash, the exam works like this: we combine your written test scores with your actual battle performance to decide whether you qualify for the Indigo League Conference. Before that, we'll need you to either leave your Pokémon with us for safekeeping, or entrust them to someone accompanying you," the official explained.
Ash nodded. His reputation was no secret. By now, countless people admired his strength, admired his charm, and—though he wasn't aware of it himself—considered him their ideal.
"Cynthia, I'll leave them with you," Ash said casually, handing over his Poké Balls.
"…Alright." Cynthia accepted them, her cheeks faintly flushed. Being called so naturally by her nickname in front of so many people made her feel both happy and flustered under the curious stares.
Just then, a familiar voice approached. "Master Ash, hello. I'm Nurse Joy of Vermilion City. It's a pity I didn't get to meet you last time." She bowed slightly in greeting.
"Ah, hello. Since Vermilion Gym isn't located in the city proper, we didn't cross paths before. I'm glad to finally meet you," Ash replied with a warm smile.
Nurse Joy smiled back gently. Her elegance reminded Ash of Suzie's refined presence. Unfortunately, the long-standing rule between the Joy and Officer Jenny families meant their marriages were restricted—something many people considered a waste.
"Attention, examinees! Please report to your assigned rooms with your number plates. The written test will begin shortly."
The announcement echoed through the building, and tension immediately rippled through the crowd. The exam here was famously strict—only one chance per year, and often fewer than ten candidates passed.
Many of those gathered today weren't here to take the test at all, but to witness Ash's performance. After all, he was already something of a celebrity.
Inside the examination hall, Ash found the facilities surprisingly advanced. Each desk was equipped with a computer that displayed the questions. Compared to his past life, Ash found the study of Pokémon in this world far more engaging.
"Everyone, settle down. The first exam will begin in one minute. This section will test your knowledge of Pokémon," the examiner announced.
The countdown ended, and the first question appeared.
"Question one: A Lickitung's tongue is twice the length of its body. True or false? You have five seconds to answer."
On the screen in front of Ash, a picture of a Lickitung appeared alongside the question, with circles for 'True' and crosses for 'False.'
The question wasn't particularly hard for Ash. He selected the circle for "True" without hesitation.
When it came to Pokémon knowledge, Ash was practically a walking Pokédex. After all, the Oak family had dedicated themselves to Pokémon research for generations, and their information was second to none.
The following questions were just as straightforward in his eyes, though the same couldn't be said for the others in the room.
Around him, candidates scratched their heads in frustration, clearly struggling. For the first time, Ash felt what it was like to be the smartest in class—the "school ace," so to speak.
When the written portion ended, the results were immediately projected on the large display screen. Ash's name stood solidly in first place.
"Unbelievable… Master Ash really is number one!"
"Yeah, too bad for Nurse Joy—if not for him, she would've taken the top spot!"
The crowd stared at the results, their expressions filled with awe. The boys looked on with a mixture of envy and admiration, while the girls gazed at Ash with dreamy, almost sentimental eyes.
...
TN:
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