Tuesday, September 15th.
The Orient Region Youth Cup, with the semi-finals as its central attraction, officially began at Phoenix Nest, drawing back its heavy curtains.
Thousands upon thousands of spectators had gathered in the stands on either side. They held banners and flags aloft, emitting sharp Growls of excitement.
In terms of the number of attendees and the viewership of Pokémon Battles, the popularity of the college league rivaled that of the NCAA's "March Madness."
Players who performed exceptionally in the Youth Cup were seen as potential future stars and garnered significant attention at the Alliance conference. There were even scouts, like Scott, on the lookout for talented young Trainers, ready to invest in their potential.
It's evident that the college league had just as much attention as other major tournaments.
...
Luke scrolled through his mobile phone, gazed at his profile's Flatter, and quipped, "Aren't we just in a baby cup? How does it feel like it's the Master's League Trophy?"
Angela Shen smiled faintly but had a hint of melancholy in her eyes.
"Many young players may never stand on the Orient Conference stage in their lifetime..."
"The college league might be the pinnacle of their training careers."
Luke pondered for a moment and nodded slightly.
Stars who excelled in the NCAA, upon entering the NBA, might be awe-inspiring. But at this moment, the college league was their platform to showcase their youth.
Luke flexed his wrist and grinned, saying, "I'm looking forward to it."
He hoped the competition would be fierce, so Squirtle could simply be a "scumbag" without any pressure.
In the Battle Hall, the match between Capital University and Goldhill University was underway.
Rolling sand whipped across the field, pelting the protective shield and eliciting gasps from the crowd.
In the sandy battlefield, Hippowdon, with its deceptive innocence, yawned lazily, a trace of cunning glinting in its scarlet eyes.
Sven clenched his teeth and gave the order, "Scyther, hold on and use Wing Attack!"
Scyther stopped its drowsiness, as if shaking off sleep, and sliced toward Hippowdon like an arrow released from its bowstring.
The bespectacled man, exuding an icy demeanor, snapped his fingers and ordered, "Rock Tomb!"
Falling rocks pounded Scyther, propelling it forcefully into the ground, where it was swallowed by the encroaching sandstorm.
"Capital University's contestant Joey wins!"
The audience erupted in cheers, and many were surprised by the outcome.
"Sven lost rather easily..."
"It's only a singles match, and Capital University's Sandstorm system is even more terrifying in team competitions!"
"This is the foundation of Capital University."
In the team competition, Capital University's Sandstorm system had breeched Goldhill University's defenses, securing their spot in the semi-finals.
"The first ticket to the finals has been secured! Let's congratulate Capital University!"
The applause and shouts continued to resonate as the two sides exchanged polite handshakes and departed.
Zhai Wenyao observed the old rival, Capital's Coach Tommy Shao, with a slightly furrowed brow, appearing somewhat uneasy.
"This year's Capital team is quite formidable," Luke lamented, "Especially that Hippowdon."
After all, it's not Tyranitar they're dealing with.
It's a twist of fate, yet it makes sense.
Zhai Wenyao nodded in agreement, "You find it challenging too?"
Luke nodded, wanting Squirtle to perform as a "scumbag" with the lowest odds.
"Anyway, the Sandstorm team's resilience is commendable, and Torkoal can handle the weather battle in the rear."
Zhai Wenyao thought for a moment, then said, "Let's focus on preparation; our match against the University of Communications is tomorrow!"
Under Coach Zhai's guidance, the entire Magic University team stayed at a chain of Budew hotels.
Passersby on the streets were still buzzing with excitement about today's showdown.
"Is Capital going for their fourth consecutive championship this year?"
"It's hard to say; tomorrow's match between Magic University and the University of Communications will be a deciding factor."
"University of Communications is known for their Rain Dance team, right? Magic University's Space System is exceptionally strong in individual competitions. I'm betting on the University of Communications!"
Luke stroked his chin.
Weather patterns play a significant role in these battles.
It appears that even the Youth Cup places a heavy emphasis on the coach's strategy and formation.
Despite having witnessed Capital University's impressive performance, the entire Magic University team exuded confidence.
This time was different from previous games.
Teacher Luke was participating.
In any team, there must always be a soul and a leader. That was the role Luke played.
Though Luke had spent time fishing, in everyone's minds, he was the one who dedicated himself to creating suitable training programs for them, tirelessly giving his all.
Johnny looked at Luke, lost in thought, and remarked with a smile, "During the previous game, many people were talking about you. I think you have a lot of fans among the contestants."
Most of the competitors were young, and Teacher Luke was very popular in that age group.
This competition might not be a friend's tournament, but it was certainly shaping up to be one.
If the participants knew that Luke was involved, the attention given to Magic University would likely skyrocket.
Luke rubbed his temples, feeling somewhat helpless.
He really only came here to fish!
The semi-finals were already underway. Could he truly pick five successful moves this time?
Luke looked down at Squirtle, his expression serious, and he sighed, "Winning or losing is secondary; just make sure you stay safe."
Squirtle nodded cautiously, a glint of determination in its eyes.
...
Wednesday, September 16.
Magic City University announced its starting lineup before the game.
Luke's name was prominently displayed.
The announcement was met with astonishment online, with Weibo users expressing their surprise.
"??? Teacher Luke is going to play?"
"I thought Teacher Luke found out he didn't have a chance, but it seems he's going to give it a shot!"
While Luke's specific strength remained unclear, it was undeniable that he had defeated numerous experienced trainers with his tactics.
But was it appropriate for him to join the competition for a prize of millions?
"Aren't players who have previously challenged other leagues barred from participating? What's the deal with Teacher Luke?"
In response to these online questions, the organizing committee decided to investigate.
"Chairman Tang, please take a look at this player's profile." The assistant seemed a bit hesitant, saying, "There have been some questions raised online about his qualifications, which have sparked a lot of controversy."
Chairman Tang examined the information and chuckled, "There's no issue here. Is there anything else?"
"Some people are saying he's a Master Trainer who's traveled to several leagues..."
Chairman Tang chuckled softly, "His records are clear. Could he be from a different world? It's a minor issue. Let the competition continue!"
With the organizing committee's clarification, the online debate gradually subsided.
In the official live broadcast, a wave of Teacher Luke's supporters flooded in.
"Here to show support."
"Go, Luke, defeat them!"
"Teaching in the Baby Cup for training, you've earned this, Teacher Luke!"
Amid the cheers and the thunderous roars, Magic University and the University of Communications prepared to battle, officially raising the curtain on their intense showdown.