Chapter 273

Due to the collaboration between Professor Oak's Laboratory and the Magic University Breeding House, whenever there are academic challenges, the Magic University Breeding House seeks solutions from the industry leader, Professor Oak. This time, the issue revolves around a Pokémon nurtured in Professor Oak's backyard by the Magic University Breeding House.

Communicating with Dean Du of Magic University, Professor Oak notes that the problem isn't so much the Pokémon's excessive strength but rather its formidable presence that intimidates other Pokémon. Every Trainer attempting to capture it has failed due to their insufficient personal strength.

Reflecting on Luke's background as a former student of Magic University, Professor Oak realizes that, with Luke's strength and status, subduing this Pokémon aligns seamlessly with his capabilities. As Professor Oak is about to call Luke, he pauses and remarks, "Is this child preparing for the upcoming game?"

Aware of the Trainer Academy's exchange competition, Professor Oak, as the Teacher of Trainer Academy, acknowledges that Luke's current priority is preparing for battle. With a slight smile, Professor Oak suggests, "Once he completes the competition, have him visit the backyard again. After all, I owe this child gratitude, and I must prepare some surprises for him!"

...

Saturday, December 5th.

Wally stands out as the most formidable contender among the three participants. Alongside Gallade, he boasts the addition of a Magnezone with a dual Steel and Electric attribute, showcasing competence in both defensive and offensive strategies. Despite his ailment, Wally perseveres in adhering to the daily training regimen. Even Gladion, typically proud and aloof, begrudgingly acknowledges Wally's diligence and dedication.

In a broader sense, each student in Teacher Luke's class harbors their individual aspirations. Gladion strives for strength and seeks his father's whereabouts. Wally is determined to demonstrate that he too can evolve into an exceptional Pokémon Trainer. Giselle initially admires Teacher Luke's handsomeness and later appreciates his exceptional skills. As for the student adept at playing cards, perhaps their motivation lies in acquiring more UR cards?

The imminent Academy Exchange Tournament sees Gengar actively training the younger Pokémon. Internally, Luke contemplates that Erika could have participated in the faculty competition and potentially triumphed. However, coincidentally, those days align with Erika undergoing a Gym inspection from the Alliance.

Ultimately, the school decides that, endorsed by Erika, Luke will lead the team in the inter-school exchange competition. For Luke, entrusted with such a significant responsibility, his chest tightens. Is this the repercussion of his skipped work?

"Three days from now, the exchange contest will take place," Erika informs, then hesitates before adding, "Please make sure to maintain some decorum."

In case Teacher Luke wholeheartedly invests himself, no one present would be able to rein him in!

Luke reassures, "Don't worry, the students will handle scoring, and I'll take care of the fishing."

Erika looks on with a complex expression. Every time fishing is mentioned, it tends to get quite intense! Is he planning to stir up the fishpond again this time?

Erika sighs softly, "Anyway, please use your judgment!"

It's logical to bestow zero scores in a friendly match, but in Luke's case, the interpretation might differ. After ending the call, Luke glances at Gengar by his side.

"We're here to foster friendships... Understand?"

Gengar grins in affirmation, "Jie jie~!" Exchanging friendships? That's right up Gengar's alley. After all, it's a routine occurrence with Gym Leader Tang!

...

The weather takes a cooler turn.

Today, a rare holiday before the upcoming game, finds Luke seated by the indoor fireplace in a wicker chair. A Sylveon rests on his knees, while the lion-like Arcanine lies at his feet, letting out a drowsy yawn.

"Togepi kek ke ke ke~~ ~" playfully grabs the phone and rolls from Arcanine's back to the carpet.

Arcanine gently picks up Togepi and places it back on his back. Despite concerns, Togepi's luck prevails, and it manages to escape unscathed.

In a contemplative mood, Luke closes the book and bends over to rub Arcanine's mane. He then opens the company report sent by Oleana.

On Poké Company, the online version of PTCG is still in development. Once the online end is live, Luke can ask Togepi to open card packages for him. To generate momentum online, the Sinnoh version of the expansion pack is set to be released before the year-end, despite the cooling weather.

Players are excited about the news of the imminent release of the Pokémon Trading Card "Sinnoh" expansion pack. Despite multiple delays, the quality-controlled art style by Mina and the inclusion of relevant Pokémon information on each card make it an engineering marvel.

In the "Sinnoh" expansion pack, Luke has also prepared the first PTCG Trainer card.

[Trainer Card·Cynthia ]

Differing from the original Trainer card, the current Trainer card holds greater collection value. This first Trainer card is limited to only two copies globally—one in Luke's possession and the other intended for Cynthia.

Discussing the new card with Cynthia, Luke suggests showing it in person. He encourages her to visit Jubilife City in Sinnoh, where the Academy Exchange Tournament is taking place. Cynthia, surprised by the proposition, inquires about Luke's residence.

"Stay in a hotel with students," Luke replies.

"Why not invite them to my house?" Cynthia suggests.

Perplexed, Luke asks, "You have a villa in Jubilife City?"

Proudly, Cynthia confirms, "Of course."

"Then, I'll express my gratitude through cooking," Luke offers. "What would you like to eat?"

After a thoughtful pause, Cynthia, with a hint of distress, softly responds, "Anything will do?"

Amused by Cynthia's rare soft tone, Luke suggests, "I have two cards here. Which one would you like?"

Cynthia hesitates before asking, "Are there any female students?"

"One," Luke replies.

"Then, I'll wait for my visit to welcome them as guests," Cynthia declares firmly.

Amused, Luke chuckles, "No problem!"

...

Three days later, after completing his daily training, Teacher Luke accompanied a group of students to Jubilife City in Sinnoh. As a tradition, the Academy exchange meeting drew significant local attention every year. Jubilife City Radio planned to broadcast each game in real-time over the three-day schedule.

Seated on the train, the green-haired boy displayed visible nervousness. Luke reassured him, saying, "It's okay; just showcase your usual strength. Your parents will also be watching these games." Wally nodded, often questioning himself about not receiving the special Pokédex. However, Professor Oak, Teacher Luke, and even Ruby never gave up their expectations of him. The weak green-haired boy resolved to meet those expectations.

Gladion, seated nearby, stared at the rapidly receding scenery, contemplating whether his family would witness the game. Thinking of his mother and younger sister in Alola, Gladion tightly clasped his hands, determined not to miss any victory.

In between the two, Giselle felt intense pressure. Feeling weak, she timidly asked, "Teacher Luke, if I lose, will you punish me?" Luke replied, "Punish you by copying the Attribute Restraint table 100 times." Giselle , worried about her reputation, negotiated with Luke for signed copies. Initially aiming for 100, she settled for 10 signed sheets. Luke added humorously, "Can't sell them for money; I haven't tried it myself!" Giselle sweetly assured, "Don't worry! I'll collect them, and there will always be appreciation someday."

 ...

Guided by the organizing committee, the entire group is currently heading to the hotel for check-in.

Teacher Luke provided an explanation, stating, "There are four academies, and the competition is divided into two days."

"A match consists of both a student game and a teacher game, with three teachers leading the team and three students participating in each."

"My requirements aren't too high."

With arms crossed, Luke smiled and added, "Winning three games in a row for one person... It's not too difficult, right?"

The three students nodded collectively, displaying an impressive level of confidence.

Wendy, a teacher standing on the side, couldn't help but be momentarily bewildered.

If all of you win, what will we do afterward?

But...

Isn't this Teacher Luke's team style?!