The Piplup Cup Final Four is scheduled for next Wednesday, with a week-long publicity campaign leading up to it. Coincidentally, Luke's final exams are also scheduled during this time, after which he can enjoy his summer vacation. As he doesn't plan to return to his hometown during the break, he intends to visit his parents during the review week.
"Classmates, this concludes our last class of the semester. We'll adjourn after taking attendance," Professor Chen announced from the podium, adjusting his glasses.
As the class came to an end, the classroom erupted with cheers. Despite the rigorous week of reviewing and exam preparation ahead, the prospect of a week-long break was a welcome relief.
Twain, seated in the front row, turned around eagerly and inquired, "Hey, what are you plans?"
Damien looked visibly older as he replied, "I...I have exams for computer and criminal law, as well as advanced mathematics."
"Got it," Twain nodded, his excitement fading. "And Luke, are you going for training?"
"Ah, I'm free," Luke shrugged. "I've already accumulated enough credits for both of these subjects."
"You..."
Luke, a finance student, had unexpectedly secured a place in the top four among first-year freshmen at the prestigious Magic University. This achievement had stirred up quite a buzz in the Economics Institute and even garnered attention from the Pokémon Academy in the South Campus.
More than three students from the Battle Department had extended invitations to Luke, hoping to challenge him. However, Luke was no mere NPC and wouldn't engage in battles that wouldn't yield rewards.
As the day's classes concluded, Luke checked his phone for updates on the "Late Night Canteen" series.
In the gaming community, it was widely acknowledged that Teacher Luke specialized in unorthodox content. Although these "dirty routines" had an application in real life as well, Luke's expertise and command made them truly extraordinary.
The end result was a polarization of Teacher Luke's reputation, with some praising his tactics while others criticized them.
But this time, Luke's release of a gourmet video had taken everyone by surprise. Apart from the late-night shock, his culinary skills garnered unanimous praise from fans. The simple narrative style and editing approach of "Late Night Canteen" also contributed to its popularity.
Especially heartwarming was the moment when Gastly evolved, which seemed to encapsulate the harmonious coexistence of people and Pokémon.
One particularly insightful comment caught Luke's eye.
"Onix used Harden: Teacher Luke's 'Late Night Canteen' stripped away the superficialities of the world, opting for simple narration that resonates deeply with viewers. I believe his true message is..."
"I want to raise Garchomp: Whoa, your analysis is spot-on!"
"Art is Electrode: You sure do talk a lot, and it's a bit convoluted!"
Luke was greatly intrigued. "Is it really... I can't believe this interpretation! How did they deduce that?" he exclaimed.
With widespread fan acclaim, the video's popularity continued to climb. Although it hadn't yet reached the task completion goal or topped the living area charts, it was only a matter of time.
Satisfied, Luke nodded to himself. As the Piplup semifinals approached, he was less concerned about his own preparation and more curious about Haunter's state. Consequently, he hadn't dedicated much time to training.
Now, his primary focus was on preparing for his final exams. As he entered the library, Luke took out his notebook and muttered to himself, "Alright, time to start studying."
His phone buzzed, and the message was concise and direct, coming from the one and only Cynthia.
"Want to play games?"
Luke raised an eyebrow. "Again? Seriously?"
"Why does she always appear when I'm trying to study? Does she think I'm a pushover?" he grumbled.
Maintaining a determined expression, Luke composed a strong reply.
"Sure, I'm on my way."
"Give me ten minutes, and I'll be home!"
Cynthia's smile quickly transitioned to a focused expression. The game screen before her displayed a colossal Tyrantrum.
After numerous failed attempts, Cynthia was considering seeking help from a gaming professional, Luke, to conquer this challenging level.
"This level is so frustrating," Cynthia complained, brushing her golden hair aside. "Let me see if the Master can pull it off. It's not fair if someone else..."
However, her resolve solidified, and she gripped the controller tightly. "No, I'll persevere. I'll get it right next time!"
Meanwhile, Luke was sprinting down the street with one thought on his mind: time is money.
He couldn't afford to let Cynthia find someone else to play with. After all, why give away something for free?
Returning home out of breath, Luke found Haunter carrying a bucket of paint and nervously brushing the wall. Suddenly, Haunter froze, shaking and turning its head to Levitate in front of the wall covered with fist marks.
"It's fine, I was mentally prepared for this," Luke sighed.
"Jie jie~?" Haunter queried.
"You can just use it to erase food stains," Luke replied with a hint of amusement.
Haunter appeared slightly taken aback but quickly nodded in agreement.
"Jie jie~!"
The concept of the virtual world was introduced by Hoenn's Devon Corporation, with Steven Stone being credited as its originator. Despite being a wealthy second-generation individual, Steven was not involved in business but rather a business prodigy. If he wasn't able to unearth stones, he would return home to inherit his family's immense fortune.
In addition to Devon Corporation, Lysandre Labs in the Kalos Region continued to develop AR and 3D technologies. Luke mused, "I wonder if Virtual Imaging Technology will allow us to play card games in the future."
Putting aside his thoughts, Luke swiftly connected to the game.
"What game are you playing today?" he asked.
"Monster Hunter," came the response.
Opening the game, Luke logged in with a rented account and rushed to the mission location where a Garchomp was already waiting in the mission hall.
"Do you still use Gengar?" a slightly hoarse yet charming and beautiful female voice inquired over the team's voice channel.
Luke hesitated and replied, "Do you... also use Garchomp?"
Cynthia nodded affirmatively and continued, "Well, let's discuss how much it'll cost to defeat Tyrantrum."
"How much do you think is reasonable?" Luke inquired.
"Um... I'm not familiar with prices in the Orient. You can send me the bill for next week."
Luke couldn't help but be moved by Cynthia's generosity.
Is she really just a rich woman? No, she's more like an angel!
"It's okay if you can't clear the level," Cynthia reassured. "After all, it's a five-player level. I can find another person to join."
In her mind, Cynthia considered teaming up with Diantha, an all-round genius from Kalos, proficient in both gaming and acting.
However, as a seasoned player, Luke retorted with a smirk, "You underestimate me."
With a confident expression, Gengar swiftly approached the roaring Tyrantrum. Luke grinned as he examined the intricate "Destiny Bond" combo in the Ability list.
"Prepare to face your doom!"
Cynthia watched Gengar battling Tyrantrum, her expression one of puzzlement. Even in the game, Teacher Luke adhered to the Substitute-Toxic-Protect-Paralysis routine.
Cynthia couldn't help but comment, "As usual, quite predictable."
Ultimately, both sides took some damage, and the "Destiny Bond" move was successfully executed. The skies darkened, Tyrantrum fell, and the sun was obscured within five minutes on the timing panel.
"This is... incredibly fast!" Cynthia remarked, her delicate face revealing surprise.