The Written Exam Begins

Mauville City had already awakened in the early morning. Traffic flowed through its streets, and the city brimmed with life.

Xinhai took his bicycle from his backpack, checked his bearings, and rode toward the Mauville City branch of the Pokémon Breeders' Association, the site of this breeder assessment.

The association branch was a luxurious, modern-looking building. Quite a few Trainers participating in the assessment had already gathered outside, men and women alike, their expressions variously tense, excited, confident, or uneasy.

Xinhai put away his bicycle and followed the crowd into the building. Before he even entered the lobby, a clear announcement came over the speakers:

"Attention, candidates taking the Beginner Breeder qualification assessment. Please proceed to the designated area on the third floor according to the signs. The examination rooms are located on the third floor. Please confirm your examination materials once again..."

Seeing the long line at the elevators, Xinhai decisively chose the nearby stairs and headed upward at a steady pace.

Upon reaching the third floor, he saw two staff members in association uniforms maintaining order at the entrance.

"Please enter in an orderly manner! Personal belongings may be stored in the temporary storage room over here, where electronic lockers are available. After storing your belongings, please proceed to the waiting room according to the signs."

"Check your electronic admission ticket information once again. It contains your name, candidate number, theory examination room, and seat number. Your identity must be verified by scanning your Pokédex before entering the examination room, so please have it ready in advance!"

Hearing this, Xinhai first went to the nearby storage room. He used his Pokédex to scan an empty electronic locker, securely stored his Spatial Backpack inside, and kept only the stationery needed for the exam, his Pokédex, and the Poké Balls