Preparing For the Breeders Exam

"A new way of Pokémon evolution?" Matsuda had a questioning look on his face.

"Mm."

Aoki nodded and continued, "I discovered a method of Pokémon evolution. This particular Pokémon has been known for a long time, but the exact way it evolves might not be widely understood."

"Which Pokémon?"

"Slowking," Aoki said.

"Slowking? Do you know how Slowpoke evolves into Slowking?" Matsuda's expression grew serious.

Discovering a method of Pokémon evolution is no small feat. Many renowned Pokémon researchers have spent their entire careers without uncovering such knowledge. Only professors who specialize in Pokémon studies might have an understanding of such discoveries.

"It was an accidental discovery. Although the circumstances were quite unique, I believe Slowking can evolve under specific conditions. My Slowpoke evolved into Slowking right in front of us," Aoki explained.

Then, he retrieved a Pokéball and summoned Slowking.

To secure the opportunity to open a Gym, Aoki figured that revealing Slowking's evolution method was a worthwhile exchange.

Besides, even if he didn't disclose it now, researchers would likely figure it out in a few years.

It was better to claim credit first.

"Ya-dong~~" Slowking appeared, letting out a thoughtful cry as it emerged from the Pokéball. It already understood Aoki's intentions while inside the ball and remained calm.

Among Aoki's Pokémon, Slowking was undoubtedly the most intelligent.

Despite its seemingly dopey appearance, after evolving into Slowking, it exuded an undeniable sense of confidence—one that ensured no one would mistake it for being foolish.

"It's really a Slowking." Matsuda's eyes lit up the moment he saw the regal Pokémon standing beside Aoki.

Matsuda had only heard of Slowking before but had never actually seen one in person. He never expected his disciple to have successfully raised one.

He knew Aoki had a Slowpoke, but he hadn't anticipated that the seemingly dull Pokémon would evolve into Slowking.

The Pokémon's entire demeanor had transformed.

"How did it evolve... Never mind, don't tell me yet. If you truly discovered Slowking's evolution method, then there's a lot we can do with this information." Matsuda had initially intended to ask but decided against it. After all, it was his disciple's discovery, and Aoki should announce it himself.

"In that case, you should find some time to head to Saffron City in the Kanto region. At the Breeder Examination Center there, you can take the assessment for an intermediate breeder certification. After that, I'll introduce you to someone, and you can apply for recognition as a junior researcher. Tell him about Slowking's evolution method. If he acknowledges your findings, your reputation will grow significantly.

You'll become the youngest intermediate breeder in the League and the youngest Pokémon researcher to discover a new evolution method. With these titles, you can apply at the League branch in the Hoenn region to establish a Gym. I'll also reach out to a few old friends to help smooth the process, so there shouldn't be any problems."

Matsuda laid out the most reasonable and stable course of action.

Hearing Matsuda's plan, Aoki found it quite feasible.

The only downside was that it would bring him under the League's scrutiny in the short term, making it harder to interact with underground organizations and the Hunter Group.

And the person Matsuda intended to introduce him to… someone highly influential in the Kanto region. Could it be that person?

Professor Oak!

The most renowned and authoritative Pokémon Professor in Kanto.

If it was him, Aoki felt much more confident.

Given Professor Oak's standing in the League, few would dare to challenge his conclusions.

Not to mention his expertise in Pokémon studies—

Even in terms of sheer strength, he was one of the top Trainers in Kanto.

In fact, Professor Oak had once been the Champion of the Kanto region but had quickly resigned. Otherwise, he would likely still hold the title.

He was more than qualified to be Kanto's Champion.

Like Matsuda, however, he had no interest in politics or power. The League administration was content with this arrangement, leaving the Champion's seat vacant for years.

"Alright! Then I'll head to Saffron City in the next couple of days. Will you come with me, teacher?" Aoki asked.

Matsuda waved his hand. "I won't be going. Just head to the Breeder Examination Center in Saffron City and take the assessment. Once you pass, I'll tell you where to find the person you need to meet. We'll talk more after your assessment.

Once you pass the intermediate breeder assessment, your reputation will skyrocket."

Matsuda was in the middle of a critical experiment and had no time to accompany Aoki. Perhaps once his research was finished, he'd check in, but not now.

Aoki had no objections. Becoming an intermediate breeder was a relatively simple task in his eyes.

In his past life, he hadn't pursued an official League status due to secrecy concerns, but if he had, he would have taken the intermediate breeder exam back then.

Being a certified intermediate breeder officially recognized by the League granted access to many League resources.

There were also numerous benefits for intermediate breeders.

Those who passed but felt they lacked the strength to protect themselves could join a family. Mid-tier families would gladly accept an intermediate breeder into their ranks.

"Alright, teacher, I'll head to Saffron City first and take the intermediate breeder assessment," Aoki said.

If it weren't too shocking for someone his age to become a senior breeder, Aoki would have attempted that certification instead.

Although breeding required extensive knowledge, the core aspects revolved around Pokémon care and Pokeblock production.

"Haha, confident, are we? Did you finish reading all the materials I gave you?" Matsuda asked with a chuckle.

"Of course! I memorized everything. You can test me anytime, teacher."

"Good! Then let's see how well you know your stuff. Don't embarrass me by failing the intermediate breeder assessment."

With that, the master and disciple engaged in a discussion about breeder knowledge.

For the most part, Matsuda asked the questions, and Aoki provided the answers with confidence.