Breeder Qualification Examination

Xinhai turned around and saw a bespectacled middle-aged woman with a gentle demeanor standing not far away, a leather bag in her hand.

She looked at Xinhai, her face lit up with a delighted smile.

"Ms. Ishihara!" Xinhai recognized her at once. She had been his Pokémon Breeder teacher in elementary school, a remarkably patient and kind woman.

He hurriedly stood and greeted his teacher. "Hello, Ms. Ishihara! It's been a long time."

Ms. Ishihara adjusted her glasses, her smile growing even warmer. "I spotted you from afar and thought you looked familiar. I never expected it really would be you! Are you back from your journey?"

"Yes, Ms. Ishihara. I only got back not long ago," Xinhai replied with a smile.

Her gaze fell upon the Pokémon at Xinhai's side, lingering especially on the elegant Gardevoir and upright Blaziken. A trace of admiration flashed in her eyes. "Xinhai, your partners all look very well cared for! It seems your breeding skills have improved again!"

Xinhai shook his head and looked at his partners as he answered, "You flatter me, Ms. Ishihara. They've grown so well because of their own efforts. My contribution was only a small part of it. I'm not as impressive as you say."

"Eevee! (◕ᴗ◕✿)" (Xinhai works very hard too!) Hearing that, Eevee immediately ran back and rubbed her little head against his leg in protest.

"Gardevoir~" (Xinhai has always been amazing.) Gardevoir softly agreed, her red eyes full of tenderness.

Although Blaziken said nothing, his steady gaze conveyed the same sentiment.

Watching the deep affection and understanding that naturally showed between Xinhai and his Pokémon, Ms. Ishihara's admiration deepened. She smiled and nodded. "It seems your journey has brought you more than just greater strength. You've matured as a person as well."

She paused as