Riverstone University stood proudly as one of the top institutions in Dragoncreast City, with a history stretching back over a century. Known as the "cradle" of dragon breeders, it had produced countless Pokémon Breeders and leaders in Pokémon research, each renowned in their respective fields. Consequently, gaining admission to the Breeding Department at Riverstone University was no small feat.
John considered Riverstone University his first choice, but he had a backup plan to attend others universities if things didn't work out.
After enjoying the hotel's buffet breakfast, John took a taxi to Riverstone University. The hotels near the university were fully booked, likely due to the influx of students arriving for the entrance exams.
As the taxi sped along the coastal road, a small island appeared in the distance. This was the Blaze Campus of Riverstone University, an impressive site with its beautiful buildings, thriving trees, and vibrant flowers.
The taxi crossed a two-kilometer bridge spanning the sea. Legend had it that when the Blaze campus was first established, there was no bridge; students relied on Pokémon from the Flying and Water Departments to make the journey. Even now, John spotted Trainers soaring through the sky on the backs of their Pokémon, adding to the excitement of the day.
On the bridge, designated lanes for Pokémon riders were bustling with Trainers on Arcanines, flaming horses, and even Rhyhorns galloping alongside them.
"Should I catch a Pokémon that can serve as a mount?" John pondered, his thoughts racing. He realized he hadn't encountered any suitable Pokémon for riding in the game.
Could Poochyena evolve into Mightyena? No, too small. What about Onix? No, too cumbersome and slow on land. His mind reeled through various possibilities, but none seemed right.
Lost in thought, the taxi pulled up to the gates of Riverstone University.
"Students, we're here!" the driver announced.
"Thanks, I appreciate it," John replied, paying the fare before stepping out.
The entrance buzzed with activity. Despite the university's efforts to stagger exam times and manage the flow of students, the gates were packed with people. Many parents had come to drop off their children for the exams, creating a lively atmosphere.
John hadn't told his parents about his plans to take the entrance exam at Riverstone University. He wanted to wait until he made his final decision on which school to attend—he didn't want them to worry.
After showing his admission ticket, he entered the campus. It felt like stepping into a vast forest where human structures harmonized beautifully with nature. The vibrant greens were interspersed with striking white buildings, creating a picturesque setting.
Riverstone University was not just renowned for its top breeders but also for its stunning student body. Surveys indicated that boys often gravitated towards battling and preferred fiery or electric Pokémon, while girls leaned towards breeding and coordination, favoring water and grass types. This imbalance resulted in a vibrant environment filled with grace and beauty, making the campus a captivating sight.
John firmly assured himself that he hadn't come to Riverstone University for this specific reason. Absolutely not! Yet, he couldn't help but admire the captivating students in their uniforms and elegant stockings—a testament to human nature's tendency to appreciate beauty.
Suddenly, a familiar voice broke his reverie. "You look like a good person, yet you're into this kind of scene?"
John turned to see a girl approaching him. She wore a brown halter dress that complemented her figure, paired with stylish black boots. Her delicate makeup highlighted her features, and her long burgundy hair flowed gracefully down her back.
It was hard to forget such a striking presence. However, as much as he recognized her, he struggled to recall her name.
"You are?" he asked, trying to buy some time.
"It's only been a month since graduation, and you don't remember your classmates?" she teased, an amused expression on her face.
"Classmates..." John racked his brain to match faces and names. Finally, it clicked. "Grace?"
The resemblance was uncanny—she bore a strong resemblance to the Grace he remembered, but the transformation in her appearance left him momentarily speechless.
"Wow, you've really changed!" he exclaimed.
"Of course, my charm is undeniable," she replied, a satisfied smile crossing her lips.
"Are you applying for the Breeding Department here?" John asked, genuinely surprised. He knew from his previous life that Grace had attended Riverstone University and later joined the financial sector.
Grace raised an eyebrow at him, clearly not pleased with him addressing her by her old high school nickname. "No, I'm not interested in breeding. I applied to the Battle Department, and I've already passed the exam."
With a flourish, she released a Croconaw from its Poké Ball. The creature let out a fierce roar, startling a few nearby students.
"Feraligatr and Vileplume? Quite a duo you've got there," John remarked, admiring her choice.
Grace's prowess was evident, especially given her lineage— rumors said that she was the daugther of a High official within Draconia, a fact that had made her the undisputed leader of their class back in high school.
"The Battle Department exam was five days ago, so I'm already set," she said, glancing at her watch, a hint of urgency in her tone. "But let's catch up later over a meal."
Without waiting for a reply, she strode away, leaving John to contemplate the journey ahead.
Checking the time, he realized he needed to head to the examination room. Following the signs posted along the main path, he eventually found the classroom designated for the written test.
Inside, he noticed only a handful of students scattered about; the room could accommodate up to twenty.
"It feels just like the college entrance exam," he murmured to himself, remembering the atmosphere.
In reality, it was akin to a college entrance exam, albeit focused on Pokémon. The questions encompassed everything from Pokémon Breeder lore to details from the Pokédex and battle strategies.
One question stood out as soon as the test began: "Torchic occasionally devours small stones on the ground. What else does it do besides aiding digestion?"
John smiled, Torchic was a popular choice, and this question was a direct nod to his studies. He recalled the discussions he had with Mark about Torchic's behavior. He confidently wrote down, "promotes digestion and raises the temperature of the flame it spews out."
As he progressed through the exam, he encountered a bonus question involving a type matchup chart, which he navigated easily, thanks to his extensive preparation.
However, the final open-ended question took him by surprise: "If you have a regular Nosepass, please write down your detailed Breeder plan for it."
John's heart raced. What a coincidence! The question felt personal, as if it were meant for him, recalling the time he had spent with Roxanne and her Nosepass.