Chapter 272

In Verdanturf Town, Hoenn, the gentle breeze weaves through the thick greenery, turning it into a renowned resort town.

Within a modest residence, a frail young man with green hair lies in bed, battling illness. Even in his slumber, he struggles with bronchitis, letting out laborious coughs.

Outside the ward, a woman wears a pained expression. "Letting Wally go to Kanto alone... is that really the only option?"

"I've spoken to Professor Oak," the responsible individual whispered. "Celadon City has top-notch medical facilities. They might help Wally's condition."

"But!" Her voice grew anxious, wary of waking the child. She lowered her tone and added, "Wally's dream is to become a Trainer!"

"Celadon Academy is willing to accept him as a transfer student. He can attend classes during his free time."

The man sighed. "It's a compromise we have to make."

The two fell silent, standing outside the ward, their hearts pounding with each cough from within.

Inside the room, the weak green-haired boy dreams the same recurring scene. He pants as he runs along a rough path, stumbling and falling. Limbs ache, but the light at the exit is visible. The pursuing figure, a young man in a white hat and green clothes, draws near.

"Ruby!"

Wally almost shouts in a hoarse voice, "Please battle me!"

Amid countless descents into the abyss of pain, when he contemplates giving up, it's Pokémon that grants him the strength to persist.

Please, Ruby.

Wally collapses to the ground, wiping his eyes defiantly. I want to prove it to you... I'm working hard too!

In the dream, Ruby turns around. "No problem." He tightly grips a Poké Ball and smiles—not sympathy or pity, but the concentrated focus of a rival.

"Prepare for an all-out battle!"

The dream fades, and Wally looks up at the ceiling, a smile playing on his lips. "I'm going to Kanto..."

A hand reaches out, gently wiping away tear stains from the corner of Wally's eye. "Gallade, you'll always be with me, right?" Wally whispers.

Like a loyal guardian, Gallade remains silent but stands steadfastly beside Wally.

...

Before departing, both Ruby and Sapphire came to bid farewell.

"Kanto has some acquaintances of mine; remember to drop my name!" Ruby said with a grin.

Sapphire kicked Ruby, ignoring his attempt to hug her feet, and expressed concern, "While you're in Kanto, let's stay in touch!"

"Yeah," Wally tugged nervously at his backpack strap and nodded. "Absolutely."

An exchanged glance between the two..

[Ruby: Are you trying to murder your husband?]

[Sapphire: Read the room, don't crack jokes.]

[Ruby: I'm joking precisely because the mood is light!]

[Sapphire: Oh...right, is that so?]

"By the way, Ruby and I would love to go to Celadon Academy..."

Sapphire coughed lightly, stroking her chin, and quickly deflated, "But I didn't pass the exam..."

"And I was going to accompany you if you didn't pass..."

"Shut up!"

Observing the two bicker and banter in their close manner, Wally adjusted his backpack strap once again, lowering his head.

"I'll make sure to keep in touch," he assured them.

"Remember our pilot number, don't forget it!"

With a wave goodbye from the two, Wally appeared outwardly calm, finally at ease.

"Aren't they your friends?" Wally's elder sister inquired. "You seem nervous."

Wally gazed out of the car window, watching the gradually receding greenery, offering no response.

Yes, they are still friends.

I also have a chance... to become one of them.

Wally lowered his head, silently squeezing the strap of his shoulder bag.

Yet, when your friends are so outstanding compared to you...

It's no longer a relationship where everything is shared.

...

"Do you know, Wally?" Professor Oak inquired.

"Wally?" Luke was taken aback.

Isn't this the least favorable subject for the special article?!

First, he assisted Birch in becoming a Professor and evolving Treecko into Grovyle.

He helped Norman reactivate the Sky Pillar and summoned Rayquaza.

However, the Hoenn battle concluded without obtaining the special edition Pokédex, and Wally's Grovyle was also given away...

Yet, from another perspective, this ailing boy has been grappling with illness to fulfill his dream of becoming a Trainer.

Moreover, on the path to becoming a Champion, Wally managed to catch up with Ruby, the son of a Gym Leader, showcasing as much courage as any Pokédex holder.

But... the protagonist of "Special Emerald" is Emerald.

Wally's Pokédex and Sceptile were eventually passed on to Emerald.

Efforts do not always yield rewards...

Teacher Luke couldn't help but sigh lightly.

"Professor Oak, please continue."

"He is a very diligent child... but he's also very introverted."

"I always find it difficult to communicate with him."

Professor Oak rubbed his hands, seemingly burdened with guilt.

"During this time, he will be transferring to Celadon Academy. I'd like to ask you for a small favor."

"Please, go ahead."

Professor Oak nodded and recounted Wally's achievements, omitting the major events in Hoenn but aligning with Teacher Luke's impression.

"Originally, that Treecko belonged to Emerald, but it ended up with Wally."

"Although that's the case... separating the child and Treecko would also be cruel."

Professor Oak sighed, "After Wally returned the Pokédex, I've been contemplating."

"He performed admirably in Hoenn, and he deserves his own Pokédex."

"That's a thoughtful gesture," Luke agreed.

"But Wally is seriously ill. Asking him to collect Pokédex data would be a significant burden on his health."

Professor Oak sighed again, "So, I've been wrestling with this decision for a long time, until recently."

On the screen, Professor Oak retrieved a light green Pokédex from the pocket of his white coat.

"I would like you to transfer this Pokédex to Wally."

Professor Oak's smile carried a hint of helplessness.

"Although it's not a special version... it's a belated present!"

As a research leader, Professor Oak had numerous considerations.

Remembering Wally, the nameless child, and personally distributing a Pokédex to him.

Even if it's a belated present... it demonstrates Professor Oak's kindness.

"Leave it to me."

Luke smiled, "Once he completes the enrollment procedures and a suitable opportunity arises, I'll hand the Pokédex to him."

Being able to alleviate a teenager's regret brought a sense of satisfaction to Teacher Luke.

"Also..." Professor Oak added resolutely, "If his health doesn't look promising, we may need to revisit the situation."

"I'll assess the situation," Luke nodded. "Do I need to come to Pallet Town to get the Pokédex?"

"No, you can pick it up at the Pokémon Center in Celadon City. It's already been sent there by someone."

"No problem!"

After ending the call, Luke gazed in the direction of the Principal's office.

Next... it's time to meet the rumored Wally!

...

In the Principal's office, Principal Earl is discussing Wally's transfer.

"Teacher Luke's class still has some open spots," Principal Earl mentioned. "How about joining his class?"

Wally didn't object, nodding with his head down and quietly complying.

At that moment, Luke pushed the door open and entered the Principal's office.

"Teacher Luke, perfect timing," Principal Earl greeted. "This is the student who has transferred to your class."

Clothed in a white shirt, soft green hair framing his forehead, the boy nervously clasped the backpack straps.

The frail green-haired boy, mustering courage, had a morbidly flushed face:

"Respected Teacher! Cough!"

For patients with bronchitis, every spoken word is a form of suffering.

"Nod for yes, shake for no."

Luke chuckled amiably, "Did you come here on your own?"

Wally quickly nodded.

"I'll treat you to lunch; we can head to the cafeteria later."

Luke patted Wally's shoulder. "Is the paperwork all done?"

Wally nodded.

"Great, let's go now!"

...

"Feel free to choose whatever you want!" Teacher Luke declared heroically as they entered the cafeteria.

After all, the staff canteen doesn't require any payment!

Wally still appeared embarrassed.

"Do you start coughing as soon as you speak?" Luke couldn't help but ask.

"It's okay if I speak more softly and slowly," Wally whispered.

"Then you must have put in a lot of effort in giving commands."

Wally paused for a moment and involuntarily looked up at Luke.

"Don't be so surprised," Luke said with a smile. "I heard Ruby talk about you. As his friend, you are also a worthy opponent."

Wally coughed sharply, eyes gleaming with excitement. "Really, truly?"

"Of course," Luke laughed. "It's just that you are quite introverted and rarely take the initiative to communicate with others."

Wally blushed, looked down at the bento in front of him, and fell silent once again.

"Alright," Luke smiled and tousled Wally's hair. "We'll be having training with everyone in the afternoon, so don't be late!"

The warmth in Luke's touch conveyed affirmation from both a teacher and a friend.

Wally was momentarily surprised.

Due to concerns about his health, Wally couldn't participate in any outdoor training at his previous school. So, he had to secretly train with Gallade.

Coming back to reality, Wally quickly responded, "No, no problem!"

Teacher Luke wasn't worried about the training aspect. Moderate exercise could still help improve the physical condition of bronchitis patients.

"Where do you live?" Luke inquired.

"My dad rented a house near Celadon City," Wally gradually relaxed and whispered, "He's working in Hoenn and can't make it here for the time being."

Luke nodded.

"If you have any questions, feel free to come to me."

"In the afternoon, don't be late. I'm looking forward to seeing your performance!"

Wally hastily nodded and nervously assured, "I won't be late, I promise!"

...

In the afternoon, during the practical combat class, Wally, being a transfer student, received a warm welcome from all the students. The strength displayed by Wally's Gallade left everyone pleasantly surprised. In response to the praise, Wally, feeling a bit shy, scratched his head.

Luke, with his arms crossed, nodded in satisfaction. Recognizing the importance of socializing for kids of Wally's age, he encouraged interaction with classmates.

After the class break, Luke allowed everyone to move freely and called Wally aside.

"Sapphire and Ruby wanted me to pass this on to you."

"What is it?"

"Lava Cookie," Luke said, "a specialty from Hoenn to remind you of the taste of your hometown."

In the chat group, Sapphire had requested Ruby to send the specialty a few days ago. Teacher Luke had initially intended it for himself but later realized it was meant for Wally as a present.

Wally took the bag of senbei and remained in a daze for a moment. Eventually, he let out a relieved sigh. Perhaps... he had been overthinking things.

"Teacher Luke," Wally raised his face and eagerly asked, "Would you like to join me for a meal?"

...

Wally's swift integration into the class surprised Luke. However, considering his age, it became apparent that he was burdened with a lot and found it inconvenient to connect with others. Now, having Teacher Luke as a confidant, Wally gradually reestablished contact with Ruby, Sapphire, and the others.

"Teacher Luke... I believe Pokémon's individual value and effort are crucial," Wally shared his thoughts privately with Luke after a theory class on Friday.

Comparing Pokémon with inferior innate aptitude, Wally found it preferable to prioritize rebreeding. Facing the constraints of time in his struggle with the Grim Reaper, he aimed to enhance his strength by breeding Pokémon with high aptitude.

Initially, these sentiments were kept hidden from others, but gradually, Wally began to open up to Teacher Luke. Instead of reproaching him, Luke pondered for a moment.

"There's nothing wrong with pursuing battle intensity," Luke reassured Wally, patting his head. "However, Pokémon are living beings, and their worth goes beyond aptitude, individual value, or species strength."

"Even weaker Pokémon like Beedrill can stand on par with gods, just like Swinub can dance with them," Luke explained, smiling. "For your Gallade, love and belief in it are more important than its aptitude or species strength."

Deep in thought, Wally considered Teacher Luke's words. Just as he was lost in contemplation, Luke stopped him.

"Wally, I have one more present for you."

"What is it?" Wally turned to see a light green object in front of him – a Pokédex.

"Professor Oak gave this to you," Luke revealed. "It's loaded with national data, the latest version. It will be a great help for you as a Trainer."

In a daze for a prolonged moment, Wally suddenly snapped back to reality. He extended his trembling hand and accepted the Pokédex from Luke.

"Is this really for me?" Wally questioned, still in disbelief.

"You deserved it long ago," Luke reassured, patting Wally on the shoulders. "You've worked very hard, Wally."

In an instant, tears welled up in Wally's eyes. He coughed vigorously before bowing deeply.

"Thank you... truly, thank you very much!"

With tears streaming down his face, Wally wiped his cheek hard with his sleeve.

"Thanks should go to Professor Oak," Luke replied, offering him a tissue with a slight smile. "You're destined to be an outstanding Trainer."

As the red light flickered, Gallade materialized beside Wally. Accepting the tissue, Wally's solid companion shielded them from prying eyes.

It suddenly dawned on Wally that the concept of aptitude was laughable when used to assess the emotions between him and his Pokémon. His teary eyes blurred into a heartfelt smile.

"Thank you, Teacher Luke!"

...

On Fridays, when work is over, Teacher Luke swiftly heads home riding Arcanine. Wally's physical condition is reasonably stable, making it feasible for him to participate in upcoming competitions. With this, the trio of students set to compete is now complete.

As for the faculty competition...

Gengar can give some advance training!

After completing the assigned task, Teacher Luke contacts Professor Oak to inform him.

"Thanks for your hard work, Luke!"

"You're welcome."

Although it doesn't require much effort, Professor Oak, upon hanging up, starts contemplating what he could use to express his gratitude to Luke.

Suddenly, an idea strikes Professor Oak, and his eyes light up.

Luke... isn't he in the process of assembling a new tactical lineup?

Allow him to come to my backyard and choose a fitting Pokémon – that should be just right!

Recalling the Pokémon he collaborated on with Magic City University and received from the Magic University Breeding House, Professor Oak strokes his chin, lost in thought.

"Luke is interested in that Pokémon, isn't he?"