"Today young people are so focused on pursuing powerful Spirit Beasts that the presence and role of the Beast Master in the practical exam have become increasingly diminished."
"This has caused them to overlook something incredibly important: as beginners stepping into the field of Beast Master, neither the Spirit Beasts they contract nor the Beast Master themselves possess unlimited power."
"To become a professional Beast Master, the first thing you must learn is how to precisely utilize every ounce of strength—both your own and your Spirit Beast's—in battle to maximize its effectiveness," the old man said, tapping his fingers lightly on the table as he spoke.
"That is the true purpose of the Beast Master Department Practical Exam. It's not about who contracts the most powerful Spirit Beast, but about who can make the most of limited strength."
The old man stopped tapping the table and looked at Ash, as if to emphasize his next point. "The rule that you cannot apply to the Beast Master Department after the age of 19 exists for a reason," he continued.
He paused, then elaborated further, seemingly afraid that Ash wouldn't grasp the deeper meaning behind his words. "You contract a Spirit Beast at 18. By 19, if you haven't passed the practical exam, your opportunity is gone. With just one year of preparation, even if someone exceptionally gifted manages to achieve the first stage of Max-Evolution with their contracted Spirit Beast in that time, do you think that's something many people in Montis can achieve? Even the current Four Pillar and Champion—top-tier professional Beast Master—didn't all manage that feat."
"Which is why your chances of getting into the Beast Master Department are still quite good."
Becoming one of the champions in the Beast Master Department Practical Exam four regions might be a pipe dream for Ash given her circumstances.
But being among the top 30% of the million participants?
The old man believed she had a real shot.
Seeing Ash deep in thought, he added, "I know many people place great importance on the Spirit Beast they contract initially. Some even think that failing to contract a strong Spirit Beast means their future is ruined. But the reason Spirit Beasts are called 'spirit' beasts, rather than just beasts, lies in their mysterious and limitless potential."
"Throughout history, countless weak Spirit Beasts have gained the strength to rival powerful ones, thanks to their Beast Master. Even the smallest grass can grow into a towering tree. In the face of the miraculous power of evolution, nothing is impossible," the old man said, smiling at Ash. "Many people may have forgotten this, but the true strength of a Beast Master lies in turning the impossible into possible."
"A great Beast Master has never proven themselves by merely contracting powerful Spirit Beasts. Their greatness lies in nurturing weak Spirit Beasts into strongest ones."
In that moment, a whirlwind of thoughts rushed through Ash's mind.
And then, as if crystallizing into clarity, the old man's words brought to mind a famous quote from Karen of the Johto League's Elite Four in Pokémon.