The two-day weekend break had come to an end, and Natsume had to return to school for classes. However, after the worldline shifted, Tokyo Metropolitan University had undergone a dramatic transformation.
Walking through the campus, it was common to see boys and girls carrying Poké Balls, with some even having their Pokémon follow them around. Most of these Pokémon were small in size, like Pidgey, Growlithe, and Skitty. Some students even zoomed past on Linoone.
"Racing Pokémon is prohibited on campus!"
"Calm down, supervisor! Those are from the Battle Department. They're training today!"
Natsume checked the school's website and noticed that a new "Trainer Academy" had been established in the southern campus. Among its programs, "Pokémon Battle" and "Pokémon Care" were listed as top-tier majors. However, these had little to do with Natsume, who was majoring in finance.
Although a few Pokémon-related elective courses had been added to his schedule, the core content of his major-specific courses hadn't changed much.
"Good thing I still have time to review, or my scholarship for this semester would be in jeopardy," Natsume muttered to himself.
Indeed, Natsume was not only a game streamer but also a top student. He consistently ranked within the top three in his department, and he had a chance to compete for a national scholarship in the second half of the year. Despite being a freshman, his good looks and excellent grades made him popular across all grades.
The first elective class of the morning was "Sinnoh Pokémon History." When Natsume arrived at the lecture hall, it was already packed.
"Natsume, over here!"
Kazuya, Natsume's roommate who was double-majoring in law and computer science, waved at him. Despite his buzz cut, Kazuya's receding hairline in the shape of an "M" betrayed his age, making people think, "This guy is a powerhouse!"
Natsume quietly sat down in the seat Kazuya had saved for him and whispered, "Why are there so many people today? The professor doesn't even take attendance."
Kazuya chuckled, "Didn't you check the group chat? Today's class is being taught by a guest lecturer, a Pokémon Professor!"
Natsume was slightly surprised, "A Pokémon Professor? From where?"
"The Sinnoh Region—Professor Rowan!"
The lecture hall erupted in applause, and a few reporters with cameras even squeezed in from the back. A stern-looking elderly man with a mustache walked in slowly, carrying a briefcase. His gray hair was slicked back with gel, and he wore a gray overcoat with a blue velvet vest and a tie. After clearing his throat, he greeted the class in English:
"I am Rowan from the Sinnoh Region. Today, I will be your guest lecturer."
The classroom buzzed with excitement.
Kazuya, trying to contain his excitement, whispered, "Professor Rowan is an expert in Pokémon Evolution and is considered the top scholar in the Sinnoh Region!"
Natsume's expression was complicated. "I know him."
Of course, Natsume knew him. Wasn't this the same Pokémon Professor from the Sinnoh Region who gave out the starter Pokémon trio to new trainers?
Despite the initial excitement, the students quickly settled down and began to listen attentively. Although the lecture was entirely in English, Professor Rowan's explanations were clear and engaging, drawing everyone in.
"The history of Sinnoh Pokémon dates back to the mythical era and can be seen as a microcosm of the world's Pokémon history."
"In the legends, the singularity formed after the Big Bang gave birth to the oldest creation deity, Arceus."
"Subsequently, Arceus created deities governing time, space, and antimatter... On the third day, Arceus bestowed emotions, will, and knowledge upon living beings..."
Just as everyone was engrossed in the lecture, Professor Rowan suddenly tapped the blackboard and said sternly:
"Perhaps many of you will never encounter this Pokémon history again in your lives."
"But history is a rare treasure for humanity, and it is equally valuable for you."
Tokyo Metropolitan University's key disciplines were in the humanities, which was likely why the school had invited Professor Rowan to lecture.
As Natsume was deep in thought, Kazuya nervously elbowed him.
Professor Rowan continued, "Does anyone here know the names of the Pokémon from these mythical epics?"
The atmosphere in the classroom grew tense. After all, few people would bother memorizing such obscure names. In a parallel world, it would be like trying to recall the names of heroes from the "Homeric Epics"—even FGO players might not get them all right.
Seeing that no one responded, Professor Rowan stroked his mustache and said, "It's alright if you can't recall them. You can also share your thoughts on the perspective of Pokémon history."
He scanned the room and nodded, "The handsome young man in the front row, why don't you give it a try?"
At the mention of "handsome," all eyes in the classroom turned to Natsume.
Kazuya, trying hard not to laugh, elbowed Natsume again, his eyes almost tearing up from suppressed laughter. If it weren't for his receding hairline, Kazuya could have been a handsome man too.
"Professor, may I answer the previous question instead?"
Professor Rowan nodded in surprise. "The three deities who bestowed emotions, will, and knowledge upon living beings are..."
"Mesprit, Azelf, and Uxie," Natsume answered calmly.
"According to the legends, they reside in Sinnoh's Lake Verity, Lake Valor, and Lake Acuity, respectively."
The classroom fell silent.
Kazuya glanced back and saw the girls in the back row staring at Natsume in awe.
"...Yes, your answer is quite accurate!" Professor Rowan nodded appreciatively and began to clap.
The classroom erupted in applause, and the sound of camera shutters clicking could be heard from the back. Natsume, however, looked puzzled.
Is knowing the names of legendary Pokémon really such a big deal?
I even know about Ultra Necrozma. If I mentioned that, it would blow your minds!
"As expected of Natsume, one of the top three students in his year!"
"Hey, are you crushing on him?"
Kazuya, hearing the teasing from the back row, expressionlessly pulled out a copy of "Java Programming Language" from his bag.
Only through continuous learning can one become stronger!
After class, the students respectfully filed past Professor Rowan, who nodded solemnly. A group of teachers surrounded him, and Natsume was about to leave when he was suddenly called back.
"Natsume, excuse me, do you have any plans for this afternoon?"
Professor Rowan had specifically called out Natsume.
Natsume was slightly taken aback. Under the envious gazes of those around him, Kazuya nudged him forward.
"Hello, Professor. I don't have any other classes this afternoon."
Professor Rowan's expression softened. "I have a few specialized courses this afternoon. I would like you to accompany me as an interpreter."
A wave of low murmurs of envy spread through the room.
Those recognized as Pokémon Professors were undoubtedly leaders in their respective academic fields. The opportunity to accompany one was a dream come true for many.
And now, Professor Rowan had personally invited Natsume.
Clearly, this was a sign of Professor Rowan's favor, offering Natsume a chance to gain practical experience!