The certification to become a Intermediate Trainer was straightforward: just defeat a Pokémon that had reached the Intermediate level.
Aron understood that the certification process for Advanced trainers was similarly direct and challenging. However, if one wanted to become a professional trainer, the difficulty increased substantially.
"Professional Rank is a real hurdle," Aron murmured to himself as he looked at the Intermediate-Rank Trainer certificate in his hand.
To be a professional Trainer, one needed at least three Pokémon at the semi-Gym level—a requirement that held back 90% of Advanced level Trainers.
If Elites and Champions represented the peak power and were the immovable pillars of each region, then professional Trainers were the vital backbone.
South Riverland City, being one of the major cities in the southwestern region, regarded professional Rank Trainers as an upper class, and their status was prestigious.
"Also, the minimum requirement to participate in the Easton Conference is a Professional Rank," Aron thought, his eyes glinting.
The Easton Conference was an event exclusive to the Easton region, held annually and drawing countless Trainers who battled for the championship.
To enter the Easton Conference, one needed to meet two criteria: being a professional Trainer and earning eight Badges by challenging Gyms. Only after achieving these could Trainers enter the knockout stage of the Easton Conference.
As the Gym Leader of South Riverland City, Lukas received numerous challengers from different cities each year—all vying for the Badge in his hand.
"Professional level is only a ticket; reaching Gym Leader level brings actual results. Occasionally, there are even Semi-Elite Trainers…"
With these thoughts about the Easton Conference in mind, Aron took a taxi to an outdoor equipment store.
Since this would be his first time venturing into the wild, he wanted to be cautious and fully prepared.
Without worrying about his bank balance, Aron went to the best outdoor equipment store in the city center to purchase supplies.
"Basic outdoor essentials…"
He bought hiking essentials, including a sturdy backpack, a waterproof jacket, hiking boots, trekking poles, and more. Additionally, he picked up other necessary items: insect repellent, a multi-tool, a portable charger, a flashlight, a first aid kit, a tent, and a sleeping bag.
With everything he needed, Aron took a taxi back home.
It was afternoon, and Lukas and Mary were both out.
After packing his purchases into his backpack, Aron sat down and watched some outdoor survival videos on his phone to make sure he wasn't overlooking any special precautions.
"Hello, your delivery has arrived."
A knock at the door interrupted him.
Aron glanced through the peephole, then opened the door. Standing there was a large Machoke carrying a massive package.
---
[Pokémon: Machoke (Fighting)
Ability: Guts
Potential: Semi-Gym
Level: Lv28 (Senior)]
---
"Hello, here's your package."
Next to Machoke stood a middle-aged man wearing a red hat and a bright work uniform with the words "Toritori Express" printed on it.
The courier handed over a paper envelope.
Aron took it, confirmed his ID, and said, "Thank you."
After closing the door, Aron looked at the envelope thoughtfully.
"An envelope…"
"This must be it."
"Com-busken…" Combusken walked over, tilting its head, curious about the envelope in Aron's hand.
Aron smiled, tore it open, and, as expected, found a beautifully crafted admission letter. The envelope had gold lettering on a red and black background, engraved with four bold characters: Imperial University.
"It's here—my admission notice."
Smiling, Aron carefully took out the letter and read it.
---
[Dear student Aron, congratulations on being admitted to the Research Department at our university. Please report to the university on August 15.]
---
"The Research Department, as expected," Aron murmured.
Getting into the Research Department of Imperial University wasn't surprising to Aron; he had anticipated it and remained calm.
Whether in the research or battle department, it wouldn't change his plans significantly. As Lukas had said, Pokémon researchers and trainers often learned from each other, and studying both might lead to even greater success.
It was a difficult balance, as most people couldn't master two fields, but Aron was an exception.
After telling his parents about the admission, they reacted calmly—Aron's academic achievements were consistently top-notch, so his acceptance was expected. They'd have been more surprised if he hadn't been admitted to Imperial University.
Still, they went out for a celebratory dinner together.
---
"You're heading into the wild tomorrow?"
Back home, Aron informed Lukas and Mary of his plans for field training.
"Yes, it's the next stage in my training plan," Aron replied confidently.
Lukas and Mary exchanged glances, and then Mary said, "We support you, Little Aron. This is a necessary step toward becoming an excellent Trainer."
Lukas stroked his chin thoughtfully and added with a smile, "Many years ago, children as young as ten would start their journeys after receiving their first Pokémon."
"For Trainers, field training is essential," Mary nodded. "Every university schedules field military training for freshmen, so this will give you a head start."
It was common knowledge among elite families that a comfortable environment couldn't produce outstanding talents.
---
Late at night
Aron was practicing his Psychic abilities when his phone began buzzing on the desk.
He paused, checked his phone, and saw a message from his class group.
The class president had tagged everyone in the chat.
---
[Hey everyone, has everyone received their admission letters? Soon, we'll all be off to different places for college. While we still have some time left on break, how about a get-together?]
[Agreed!]
[Count me in!]
[+1]
---
There were only ten people in Aron's class group, and with such a small number, they were all close friends and had a lively discussion about the idea.
Aron was a bit reserved, but not antisocial, and had good friends in his class. He watched the conversation for a while before seeing the class president tag him directly.
---
[Aron, you have to come this time! Don't stay home studying!]
The others chimed in.
---
[Yeah, we heard you got into Imperial University, Chen! Come relax with us!]
[You have to show us the Pokémon you've been training!]
[My Dratini can't wait to meet yours.]
---
Aron smiled, thought for a moment, and finally replied.
---
[Alright, let me know the time and place, and I'll be there.]