Inside the grand conference hall, the debate had reached a boiling point.
Chairman Rose spoke first.
"Since Peter developed the controllable method for Dynamax, it's only logical that his research institute be established in Galar. The Macro Cosmos Group will personally fund a protected research zone covering three hundred thousand acres for Professor Peter's exclusive use!"
The Johto League Chairman immediately countered.
"Peter was born and raised in Goldenrod City, Johto. It makes the most sense for him to return home!"
The Hoenn League Chairman waved his hand dismissively.
"No, no, no. If Mega Evolution is to be popularized, Mega Stones and Key Stones are crucial. Our Champion Steven specializes in excavating rare stones. If Peter comes to Hoenn, I'll personally reassign Professor Birch if necessary!"
Peter: ?! (°ー°〃)
Sir… are you sure Professor Birch won't have… an accident?
(Somewhere in Hoenn, a certain Professor currently being chased by a Poochyena: "Achoo—!")
Cynthia cleared her throat gracefully.
"As Peter's discoverer, I feel obliged to remind everyone that not only has he made groundbreaking research contributions, but he is also deeply knowledgeable in ancient legends. My grandmother, Professor Carolina, is preparing to retire. It would be most fitting for Peter to inherit the Celestic Town research institute.
And I would assist him personally. Even if his current focus is on League competitions, research progress would not suffer…"
Peter's eye twitched.
Nicely played, Cynthia.
"Assist in research," huh?
More like the perfect excuse to skip work forever.
Am I supposed to be your lifetime excuse?
----
Lance finally spoke up.
"Cynthia, I understand your point. But Peter calls me 'Big Brother.' I should say something on his behalf.
Research should remain comprehensive—not overly specialized. I propose that Peter temporarily share Professor Oak's laboratory. Once his travels conclude, we can discuss establishing a dedicated institute."
Cynthia raised an eyebrow.
"So Kanto's plan is to get him for free?"
"That's not what I meant—"
"Then let's battle for it. Winner decides."
Cynthia casually placed six Poké Balls on the table.
Silence fell instantly.
Lance hesitated.
With the Fairy type newly announced—and without adequate preparation—he wasn't confident in defeating Cynthia right now.
Chairman Rose chimed in.
"In that case, that sounds fair. We'll send Leon."
The Hoenn Chairman picked up his phone.
"I'm calling Steven."
Unova's Chairman: "I'll contact Alder!"
Kalos's Chairman: "Diantha? Drop the filming. Yes, now. Emergency at Indigo Plateau!"
Suddenly, the entire room turned into a battlefield of phone calls.
Professor Oak, who had been silent for some time, adjusted his glasses.
"If I participate, I trust no one objects?"
Everyone: "WHAT?! ∑(❍ฺд❍ฺlll)"
-----
At that moment, the doors swung open.
Peter stepped inside.
"Ladies and gentlemen… shouldn't my opinion matter in this?"
"Right, right! We forgot the main character!"
"Yes, there's no point arguing without hearing from him."
Oak coughed lightly.
"Peter, whatever they offer, Pallet Town can match. Additionally… I have a beautiful granddaughter, about your age. She's also involved in research. She could assist you. What do you think?"
Professor Magnolia suddenly interjected.
"Speaking of that… my granddaughter Sonia is also of marriageable age. Here's her photo. Why don't you take a look before deciding?"
Chairman Charles Goodshow shot Lance a meaningful glance.
Lance immediately understood.
"Ahem. Peter, my cousin Clair is excellent too. Strong personality, sure—but great genes. I'll give you her contact—"
The other Chairmen internally screamed.
We didn't think of that strategy?!
Peter felt cold sweat trickle down his back.
He could sense it.
Behind him—
A terrifying pressure was building.
Ding. Whitney awakened new Ability: Intimidate.
If he chose even one wrong word—
He might die on the spot.
Peter waved his hands frantically.
"No, no, no, that won't be necessary. I only like Whitney. Please don't trouble yourselves."
Instantly—
The suffocating pressure behind him vanished, replaced by a gentle spring breeze.
Peter cleared his throat.
"As for the research institute… I believe it's better not to establish one just yet. I'm still traveling and wouldn't have time to manage it properly.
Please rest assured—once my journey ends, I will fully commit to research. At that time, we can decide together."
In simpler terms:
Pokémon Professor? I'll take it.
Salary? I'll accept it.
Research institute? Later.
Work? Absolutely not right now.
Of course—
It was phrased with far more elegance.
And the "future promises" he painted were apparently delicious enough.
Chairman Charles Goodshow nodded decisively.
"Then it's settled. The League will issue an official announcement. Everyone may return to their respective regions."
-----
That Evening — Indigo Plateau Guest Hall
"Breaking News: The Pokémon League officially appoints Peter as a Pokémon Professor…"
The evening broadcast echoed through the room.
Across streets and regions, the news spread like wildfire.
Mega Evolution. Dynamax. The Fairy type.
The Trainer community was in uproar.
Peter didn't even need to check his phone.
Based on the vibration frequency alone, he knew how explosive his popularity had become.
In just one afternoon—
His follower count skyrocketed to 20 million.
A significant portion consisted of academic scholars.
He wasn't worried.
Professor Oak had over 300 million followers.
That was the direction he was heading.
After all—
The Fairy type alone was enough to rewrite battle history.
And the name Peter would forever be associated with that revolution.
…
"Ahh~"
Whitney opened her mouth, eating the egg tart Peter fed her. Her cheeks puffed adorably like a hamster.
Peter narrowed his eyes.
Feeding her like this—
Was deeply satisfying.
On the floor nearby, their Pokémon happily munched on Pokéblocks.
Notably, Peter had discovered the highest-grade Pokéblock machine at Indigo Plateau.
He had just spent over an hour producing a batch of Intermediate Pokéblocks.
With Sweet Honey and powdered Revival Herb added, the bitterness of the medicinal herbs transformed into a rich, aromatic flavor.
Radiant Intermediate Pokéblock:
Suitable for Pokémon Level 20–40. Eight times the effectiveness of standard Pokéblocks. Slightly increases friendship upon consumption. Long-term use gradually enhances affinity with the user's primary type and improves key stats.
Compared to flashy contest Pokéblocks, Radiant blocks were far better for sustained development.
Peter was delighted.
However, Lopunny and Arboliva were nearing Level 40.
Soon—
He would need Advanced-tier Pokéblocks.
"Hmm… judging by the aroma, your Breeder skills aren't bad either, Peter."
Professor Oak's voice suddenly sounded behind him.
He pulled out a chair and sat down.
"I hope I'm not interrupting you two?"
"N-No…" Whitney quickly withdrew her foot from where it had been resting against Peter's leg beneath the table.
Peter smiled faintly.
It seemed—
Even after conquering the Leagues—
The real battle…
Was still at home.
--------------
T/N:
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