Pokémon: Starting with a Bound Entry System

Chapter 113: A Slate of Secrets? Long Time No See, Senpai

July 1st

Inside the largest stadium in the capital.

The stadium, resembling a massive bird's nest, was enormous enough to accommodate hundreds of thousands of people.

Despite its size, every seat was filled, and the cheering echoed like waves.

This event was far more captivating than any concert in Hikaru's previous life.

With dazzling fireworks lighting up the sky, the grand National High School League officially commenced.

The event began with opening remarks and introductions of the judges.

The eight Elite Four trainers were introduced, each representing one of the following types: Psychic, Water, Fire, Ice, Ghost, Dragon, Fighting, and Ground.

Among them, their ages varied greatly.

As the youngest Elite Four member, Takashi Hayashi was naturally chosen to deliver the opening speech.

He soared into the sky on his Dragonite, raising a hand to silence the entire audience.

"Greetings, young trainers. I know how much effort it took for all of you to reach this stage. I've been in your shoes before…"

Following his speech, the rules were announced.

This year's competition featured six distinct arenas: grassland, rocky terrain, water, sky, forest, and desert.

Before each round, trainers would draw lots to determine the battlefield.

Up until the semifinals, each trainer could only use two Pokémon per battle.

This format required both luck and a diverse range of Pokémon.

Even gym leaders, known for their specialization in a single type, rarely limited themselves to just one type. Such specialization, while notable, was too restrictive.

Instead, gym leaders typically excelled in training Pokémon of their chosen type.

Onstage, 128 trainers stood, each accompanied by one Pokémon, basking in the glow of the spotlights.

The event was broadcast live, with Rotom drones sweeping across the stadium to capture every participant.

For many, this was a moment of pride—perhaps their families were watching the broadcast, shedding tears of joy at this incredible achievement.

While Takashi Hayashi announced the rules, the judges seated above began a casual discussion.

"Who do you think will make the top ten this year?"

The Ghost-type Elite Four, a kindly grandmother with a modern flair and a wide-brimmed sun hat, spoke first. She was simply referred to as "Grandma" by everyone.

"That's hard to say," replied the Fighting-type Elite Four, a burly man with muscles bulging under his shirt.

"There seem to be quite a few senior professional trainers this year—about ten or so."

Senior professional trainers!

In most cities, such trainers were already qualified to become gym leaders.

But these individuals were still students—high school students, no less!

"I've got my eye on the trainer from the Tibetan region. His Lycanroc has reached the Gym-tier, and his Chesnaught isn't far behind."

"Not bad, but I think the kid from Guangdong Province is impressive. His Arcanine and Sceptile are both Gym-tier, though his style is a bit aggressive."

"The champion from Hunan Province is noteworthy too. Look at the size of his Charizard—and it has white tail flames!"

"That Ninetales is quite impressive as well!"

"But if we're talking about champions, it has to be the girl from the Hayashi family. Her Dragon-type power amplification is terrifying."

At this point, Takashi Hayashi descended from the sky on his Dragonite.

"Well, Takashi, you and Aqua Grace are the youngest among us. Who do you two think will win this year?"

"Huh? The champion?" Takashi's gaze swept across the trainers below.

He lingered for a moment on Hikaru and then on Sakura Hayashi.

If the two were to face off, would Sakura concede?

And wasn't there a rumor that this kid managed to last half an hour against Athena's Pokémon?

Ridiculous!

Grandma chuckled. "The champion from Hunan Province, perhaps? His Pokémon are certainly extraordinary—whether it's Charizard or Greninja, they're both remarkable."

Aqua Grace, the Water-type Elite Four, glanced at Hikaru, who was scratching his nose onstage.

"I think Hikaru has potential too. His Charizard gave me quite a surprise."

Not to mention, he had a Latias!

This thought crossed both Aqua Grace's and Takashi's minds, but neither of them mentioned it aloud.

Onstage, motivational speeches continued to resound.

Like in the provincial competitions, the first round of matches would span three days.

"Hikaru!"

As Hikaru surveyed the crowd, wondering why Ash hadn't arrived, a voice called out to him.

Turning to the source, he saw Kei Hoshino standing nearby with a Sceptile.

"Hm?"

"This time, I'll definitely defeat you and your Charizard!"

Kei Hoshino glared at Hikaru, practically spitting out the words through gritted teeth.

Defeating Hikaru had become his obsession—or more precisely, defeating his Charizard!

[Pokémon: Sceptile]

[Ability: Overgrow]

[Gender: Male]

[Potential: Elite Four]

[Level: 41]

[Moves: Bullet Seed, Leaf Blade, Pound, Slam, Agility, Fury Cutter, Quick Attack, Leaf Storm, Leech Seed...]

[Description]: A Sceptile that has encountered a mysterious, incomplete slate, significantly boosting its potential!

So it had reached Gym-tier?

Hikaru was intrigued.

How had Kei Hoshino managed to elevate a Pokémon with Gym-tier potential into an Elite Four-tier Sceptile?

A mysterious slate?

Hikaru's curiosity deepened.

Could a single slate artifact elevate potential from Gym-tier to Elite Four?

"Defeated once and still so bold?" Hikaru smirked.

If Sceptile was still at this level, Hikaru wouldn't take it seriously.

Even without Mega Evolution, his Charizard, now at Level 41, could handle it effortlessly.

That said, Hikaru wouldn't underestimate Sceptile entirely.

Though temporarily weaker, Sceptile had its own strengths and potential.

"You!"

Seeing Hikaru's dismissive attitude, Kei Hoshino's anger surged.

With the opening ceremony concluded, the stage transitioned into the draw-lots phase.

The trainers finally relaxed, cautiously observing their rivals.

Hikaru glanced at the massive audience, marveling at the sheer scale of the stadium.

He couldn't help but wonder if those in the back rows needed binoculars to see the battles clearly.

Suddenly, a familiar figure approached Hikaru.

"Long time no see, junior."

Hikaru turned, startled.

Walking toward him with her Ninetales was Yuki, now sporting a short ponytail.

Hikaru was momentarily stunned.

Looking at the drastic changes in his senpai, he almost didn't recognize her.

"Long time no see, senpai."

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