On the bus to the airport, John and the laboratory team shared a ride, with Scarlett sitting next to him.
Although John had never visited the laboratory and didn't know the team members, it was clear how much Scarlett valued him. From the school to the airport, through the VIP channel, and onto a direct flight—it was all arranged swiftly. They departed in the morning and arrived on the outskirts of the Mayan Forest by evening. If they had taken a regular domestic airline, they likely wouldn't have arrived until the following night.
The Mayan Forest, a vast expanse classified as a B-level danger zone, is larger than the three biggest B-level danger zones combined. However, its classification is somewhat misleading. While the outskirts barely reach a D-level danger rating and wild Pokemon sightings are relatively infrequent, the deeper regions are home to incredibly strong Pokemon, some even surpassing A-level danger classification.
Rumors persist that the legendary Pokemon Celebi has been spotted within the forest, and occasionally, mysterious Unown appear. Considering all factors, it remains designated as a B-level danger zone.
Airports are constructed only in the safest D-level regions. Additionally, hotels, inns, and battle halls exist, but few residential houses—most visitors are trainers or researchers.
The plane landed at the modest airport outside the Mayan Forest, where a special convoy awaited to transport everyone to a hotel—not just any hotel, but a five-star one. Riverstone University spares no expense, after all.
However, this was only a temporary stay. Once the breeding camp officially started, everyone would move into a designated campsite within the forest. Those unwilling to stay in the forest could opt for the five-star hotel at their own expense.
Upon arrival, John learned that not only Riverstone University had booked rooms, but also every university participating in the breeding camp. Wyvernclaw University, Stormvale Academy, Blackthorn Institute, and Eldoria University were all present. In other words, this hotel had been entirely reserved by the top universities of the country.
It wasn't surprising that these prestigious universities had been invited by the Breeder Association.
"Why did so many universities arrive early?" John wondered. There was still some time before the breeding camp officially began. Scarlett likely had work to do in advance, but what about everyone else?
"The Breeder Association recently announced that the breeding camp would start earlier than planned," Scarlett responded, visibly annoyed. She had arrived early for her own research, and now her schedule had been disrupted.
"Put away your luggage and meet in the dining hall in ten minutes. After dinner, we'll select our Pokemon," Scarlett instructed John, Ricardo, and Logan.
Logan, a sophomore, had recently passed the intermediate breeder qualification exam. He joined the breeding camp to further his studies and work towards a senior breeder certification.
"What Pokemon?" John asked, voicing the question on everyone's mind.
"This breeding camp follows a 'starting from scratch' theme. Each participant receives a starter Pokemon from the Breeder Association. In one month, we'll compete against other breeders' Pokemon to gauge our progress," Scarlett explained casually.
Logan adjusted his glasses and frowned. "That rule seems unfair. The Pokemon we receive will be different species, meaning matchups will be inconsistent. Even if a breeder is skilled, they could lose just because their opponent has a type advantage."
Scarlett chuckled. "When a rule applies to everyone, it's fair."
"Choosing your starter is part of the test—it evaluates your potential as a breeder."
"And whether you get a favorable matchup or not? That's just luck. Luck is always a part of strength, whether you're a breeder or a trainer."
With that, Scarlett turned and headed upstairs, leaving the three standing there, exchanging glances.
Soon after, they separated and went to their rooms.
John entered his room and asked Gardevoir to open the secret compartment in the wall. He tossed his suitcase inside and pulled out a fresh set of clothes from the closet. After taking a quick shower, he changed and went downstairs to the first-floor dining hall.
The room was filled with young trainers from various universities, many of them chatting in small groups. Some were strikingly handsome or beautiful, adding to the lively atmosphere.
Ricardo had arrived early and sat alone, reading a book while eating. Logan, meanwhile, was engaged in conversation with a man and two women, laughing and reminiscing.
John grabbed a steak, picked up a bottle of Coke, and looked for a seat. His eyes landed on Scarlett, sitting in a corner, but before he could approach, someone carrying a wine glass struck up a conversation with her.
Deciding not to interrupt, John sat elsewhere.
Over the next five minutes, he watched as a constant stream of people approached Scarlett—university representatives, senior researchers, and even admirers. Despite her reserved nature, she remained the center of attention.
"I underestimated Scarlett's reputation..." John thought to himself. Even when she tried to keep a low profile, she was the most prominent figure in the room.
Just as he was thinking this, Scarlett spotted him. Without hesitation, she picked up her plate and sat down across from him, abruptly leaving behind those trying to engage her in conversation.
"I hate pointless socializing. I should have asked the waiter to bring dinner to my room," she muttered, irritated.
John smirked internally. What a first-world problem. One day, he'd be in her position.
But he could tell—she was genuinely tired of all the attention.
Once their meal was finished, the three of them followed the crowd to the battle hall behind the five-star hotel, which had been temporarily converted into a breeding facility.
It was time to select their starter Pokemon.