Chapter Summaries

Key plot points and events

• Zhang Cheng and Ye Tian visit a modest Pokémon Skill Specialty Store to buy Technical Machines for their Pokémon.
• Ye Tian selects Protect for Butterfree. Butterfree’s weakness is its poor durability, and Protect is affordable at 31,000 Pokémon Coins.
• For Poliwag, Zhang Cheng considers Scald but rejects it because it costs 75,000 Coins. Instead, he chooses Thief.
• Thief can damage an opponent and steal its held item. Zhang Cheng’s special ability lets him identify opponents’ items, making the move much more useful to him than to ordinary Trainers.
• After a group discount, Zhang pays 40,000 Coins and Ye Tian pays 30,000. Zhang then spends another 10,000 on Pokémon Food, leaving him with only 20,000 Coins. Ye Tian spends 5,000.
• They have dinner and return to school, tired and ready to rest.

Character developments and interactions

• Zhang Cheng makes a tactical purchase based on the advantage of his cheat ability, rather than choosing the more conventional Protect or costly Scald. He keeps his reasoning private, joking that he is relying on luck.
• Ye Tian chooses a practical defensive move for Butterfree, recognizing its fragility. He questions Zhang’s choice of Thief but accepts that Trainers can have different strategies.
• The sales assistant guides both of them through the available moves and helps complete their purchases.

Significant themes

• Strategy shaped by individual strengths: Zhang’s unusual ability changes the value of Thief.
• Limited resources and trade-offs: Both Trainers balance usefulness against cost, and Zhang’s purchases nearly exhaust his savings.
• Preparation for battle: The Technical Machines and Pokémon Food represent practical steps in developing and caring for their Pokémon.

Chapter summary

• Class assignments: Zhang Cheng learns that the 40 students selected for the Elite Class have been divided into two classes of 20, each with its own professional mentor. He is assigned to Elite Class One. His friend Ye Tian, along with Hao Chenggong, is placed in Class Two, while Wu Yueyue joins Zhang’s class. Zhang also notices Ye Lang—whom he defeated at the Nanting Training Ground—on Class Two’s list and anticipates possible trouble, though he remains unconcerned.
• Moving to the Training Ground: Zhang travels alone to the school’s extensive closed Training Ground, where the elite students will live and train for several months. The site has dormitories, classrooms, battle facilities, a cafeteria, a Pokémon treatment center, and a shop. Zhang appreciates having a private dorm room.
• Zhang and Ye Tian reconnect: The friends meet for lunch. Ye Tian teases Zhang for sleeping late and laments their separation, but they agree they can still practice together and will likely face each other in class matches. Ye Tian describes his own mentor as a Gym Leader-level Trainer.
• The new mentor: Ye Tian tells Zhang that Elite Class One’s mentor is a beautiful, powerful Gym Leader-level Trainer and a distinguished graduate of Modu University. Zhang is surprised that someone from such a prestigious university is mentoring at their school. Since he hopes to attend nearby Sakura University, he reflects on the country’s leading Pokémon universities and the likely benefit of such mentors to the school’s results.
• The first meeting approaches: After lunch, the friends part ways. Zhang arrives early for his class meeting, hoping to see his mentor. When she is late, he naps at his desk; a sudden commotion wakes him, signaling her arrival.

Character developments and interactions

Zhang remains calm about being separated from Ye Tian and about Ye Lang’s presence, but he is disappointed to lose daily contact with his closest school friend. Their easy banter shows their closeness and competitive friendship: they promise to battle without holding back. Zhang’s curiosity about his mentor—and his surprise at her credentials—sets up his first encounter with her.

Significant themes

The chapter introduces the school’s investment in elite training, the value of expert mentorship, and the competitive path ahead. It also emphasizes friendship and rivalry: Zhang and Ye Tian remain close despite different classes, while Ye Lang’s placement hints at future conflict.

Key plot points and events

• Zhang Cheng’s new instructor, Bai Yuling, introduces herself to the Elite Class One and explains that she will oversee the students’ Pokémon training for the coming year.
• Noticing Zhang Cheng is the only boy who meets her gaze confidently, Bai Yuling asks him to introduce himself first. He does so calmly, mentioning that he is a local and his starter Pokémon is Poliwag.
• Bai Yuling proposes Zhang Cheng as class monitor. Though he would rather avoid the extra duties, he accepts after the class raises no objections.
• She announces the residential program: theory classes on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays; practical training and mock battles on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays; Sundays are days off, with students required to remain near the school.
• After class, Zhang Cheng explores the training grounds to become familiar with where he will live. He later meets his friend Ye Tian, and they head to dinner.
• Over dinner, Zhang Cheng complains about being made class monitor. The two then discuss the Technical Machines they bought and agree to test them that night. Zhang Cheng’s machine may teach a move to Poliwag; Ye Tian has a Protect TM for Butterfree. Success depends on each Pokémon’s aptitude and effort, and the single-use disc breaks once its energy is absorbed.

Character developments and interactions

• Zhang Cheng stands out for his composure and confidence, which catches Bai Yuling’s attention. He accepts the monitor role reluctantly because he dislikes extra responsibilities, and he tries to shake off his irritation by walking around campus.
• Bai Yuling comes across as playful and observant. She singles out Zhang Cheng, appoints him monitor, and gives him a brief second glance as she leaves.
• Ye Tian teases Zhang Cheng about winning the instructor’s attention, then drops the subject when Zhang Cheng is annoyed. His enthusiasm returns when they plan to test their TMs together.
• The students’ reactions highlight the contrast between Zhang Cheng’s poise and the other boys’ shyness around Bai Yuling.

Significant themes

• Confidence and first impressions: Zhang Cheng’s calm manner distinguishes him immediately and draws the instructor’s interest.
• Responsibility versus freedom: His new monitor role creates a burden he did not seek, while the residential schedule imposes structure on student life.
• Training and uncertainty: Technical Machines offer Pokémon a chance to learn moves, but results are not guaranteed; aptitude and effort still matter.

Key plot points and events

• Zhang Cheng and Ye Tian use Technical Machine discs to teach Poliwag Thief and Butterfree Protect. The discs release energy, then break apart once the moves have been absorbed.
• Both Pokémon try out their new moves. Butterfree manages a fragile first Protect shield, while Poliwag practices Thief, though it has no item to steal.
• The trainers discuss Thief’s uses: it can steal a held item from a wild Pokémon, but items taken during trainer battles must be returned afterward. Zhang Cheng sees potential profit in using it in the wild, but has not yet been there.
• Zhang Cheng and Ye Tian spar to help their Pokémon improve. Butterfree, now level 11 and fully evolved, generally outperforms Poliwag thanks to its level, flight, and lack of a type disadvantage.
• After training, they return to their dorms. Zhang feeds Poliwag and Pidgey, finds them asleep together, and quietly lets them rest.
• Zhang plans to focus on strengthening his Pokémon and postpone exploring Magnolia Forest—and testing his idea about finding valuable held items—until winter break.

Character development and interactions

• Poliwag quickly picks up Thief and begins practicing it, while Butterfree shows good aptitude by producing an initial Protect shield.
• Ye Tian is portrayed as a strong trainer who has advanced from a Caterpie starter to an Elite Class student. He plans to seek a second Pokémon, since Butterfree’s early evolution advantage may fade as other Pokémon evolve.
• Zhang Cheng is affectionate and protective toward Poliwag and Pidgey, treating them almost like his children. He also shows ambition and resourcefulness, but recognizes that exploring the wild without adequate strength would be dangerous.
• The friendly rivalry between Zhang and Ye Tian continues through sparring, with both using battle as a way to train their Pokémon.

Significant themes

• Learning through practice: Technical Machines provide a move, but repeated use and battle are needed to build proficiency.
• Preparation and caution: Zhang postpones wilderness training until his Pokémon are stronger.
• Ambition constrained by rules: Thief offers a possible source of income, but trainer-battle regulations prevent keeping stolen items.
• Care and companionship: Zhang’s bond with his Pokémon is emphasized in the quiet dormitory scene.

Plot and key events

• Zhang Cheng, unable to sleep because he was excited about Pokémon, arrives just in time for the first lesson of the term.
• Instructor Bai Yuling reviews Pokémon theory and introduces more advanced material. Zhang Cheng, who believes his existing Pokémon knowledge is enough to pass the theory portion of the Trainer entrance exam, pays little attention and falls asleep.
• Bai catches him sleeping and throws a piece of chalk at him. She offers to overlook the offense if he answers a question about Scyther’s abilities.
• Zhang correctly names Swarm, Technician, and the hidden ability Steadfast, and accurately explains how each works. His classmates are surprised, and Bai decides to test him with a harder question.

Character developments and interactions

• Zhang Cheng is confident in his Pokémon knowledge but careless in class; when caught, he apologizes and readily accepts Bai’s challenge.
• Bai Yuling is strict and observant, especially toward Zhang, the class monitor. His unexpected answer surprises her, though she assumes he learned the material elsewhere.
• Wu Yueyue, Zhang’s former study representative, doubts he can answer because she remembers his poor grades.
• The other students react with surprise; some boys jokingly imagine Zhang slept to attract Bai’s attention.

Background and themes

• The chapter explains that Trainer exams weigh theory at 40% and battles at 60%, while Breeder exams emphasize theory at 80%. Students study theory before receiving their first Pokémon at sixteen.
• Key themes include the difference between confidence and diligence, the value of prior knowledge, and the tension between classroom expectations and individual ability.

Plot points and events

• During Pokémon theory class, Bai Yuling quizzes Zhang Cheng about Scyther’s evolutions. He names both Scizor, which requires a Metal Coat, and the little-known Kleavor, which requires black augurite—said to be obtainable from Golem.
• Bai is surprised because Kleavor is newly discovered and its information is not widely known. Still, Zhang’s answer is correct, so she keeps her promise and lets his earlier classroom disruption slide.
• At lunch, Zhang talks with Ye Tian, who is struggling with the volume of theory material. Zhang encourages him to study steadily and stay calm, while privately recognizing that he already knows the exam material.
• In the afternoon, Bai gives the class a test. Zhang finishes it quickly, submits it early, and is allowed to leave the classroom as long as he stays on school grounds.

Character developments and interactions

• Zhang Cheng demonstrates unusually advanced Pokémon knowledge and confidence. He remains relaxed while his classmates worry about lessons and exams, and he looks for chances to escape boredom.
• Bai Yuling is impressed and puzzled by Zhang’s knowledge of Kleavor. Though she finds him troublesome, his antics are beginning to make teaching more interesting than she expected.
• Ye Tian feels overwhelmed by the coursework but takes Zhang’s advice to heart, resolving to improve over the year.
• The students’ surprise at Zhang’s answer shifts their view of him: their class monitor is more knowledgeable than they assumed.

Significant themes

• Knowledge and mystery: Zhang knows information that should not yet be common, prompting Bai’s curiosity.
• Pressure and perseverance: The Elite Class faces strong academic expectations, while Zhang advises steady effort rather than panic.
• Boredom versus engagement: Zhang finds class easy and seeks freedom, but his unexpected answers bring fresh interest to Bai’s teaching.

Key plot points and events

• Zhang Cheng retrieves Poliwag and Pidgey from the dorm, feeds them a limited number of Pokéblocks, and takes them around campus.
• He watches a practical lesson at the Training Ground but soon gets bored and waits near the Cafeteria for his friend Ye Tian. Unable to find him when classes end, Zhang eats alone.
• Wu Yueyue, his former classmate and the new class’s study representative, asks to sit with him. She then asks for help with difficult exam questions.
• After eating, Zhang takes Wu to a grove behind the Training Ground and explains that Shedinja’s Wonder Guard only lets it be damaged by super-effective moves. He lists the five relevant types: Fire, Ghost, Dark, Flying, and Rock.

Character developments

• Zhang is shown as caring and practical with his Pokémon, managing their food carefully because overeating can harm them and his supplies are running low.
• He prefers freedom and hands-on experience to classroom study, and he is still adjusting to being Class One’s monitor.
• Wu is shy about approaching Zhang but gains confidence enough to ask for academic help. She is impressed by his explanation.

Significant themes

• Experience versus theory: Zhang values exploration and battling, while the school balances classroom lessons with guided practical training.
• Responsible care and resource limits: Zhang regulates his Pokémon’s treats to protect their health and conserve scarce supplies.
• Learning and guidance: Experienced instructors—and helpful classmates—can make training and study more effective.

Character interactions

• Zhang’s Pokémon eagerly greet him, reflecting their growing attachment and familiarity with him.
• Zhang responds politely to Wu’s request and takes his class-monitor role seriously by offering help.
• Their study session draws jealous attention from other boys, who resent Zhang’s popularity with both the instructor and a pretty classmate.

Key plot points and events

• Wu Yueyue asks class monitor Zhang Cheng to explain the exam question about sandstorms. He reviews their effects, which Pokémon and abilities prevent sandstorm damage, and how sandstorms alter certain moves.
• Overwhelmed by the details, Wu Yueyue is reassured that Zhang Cheng will send her notes so she can study at her own pace.
• As she prepares to leave, Wu Yueyue asks for advice about her Eevee’s evolution. Zhang Cheng explains that the choice can depend on a Trainer’s preferred type or team needs.
• Wu Yueyue says she mainly wants a beautiful evolution. Zhang Cheng recommends Sylveon, shows her a picture, and explains that Eevee needs high friendship with its Trainer and must know a Fairy-type move to evolve into one. He also warns her to avoid Mossy and Icy Rocks before evolution.
• Wu Yueyue takes notes, and Zhang Cheng returns to his dorm. Watching him leave, she notices her heart beating faster.

Character developments and interactions

• Zhang Cheng demonstrates detailed knowledge and patience as a tutor, then offers practical guidance about Eevee’s evolution.
• Wu Yueyue is shy and initially focused on studying, but grows excited when she learns about Sylveon and eagerly records the requirements.
• Their friendly, one-on-one conversation carries a faintly intimate atmosphere. Wu Yueyue becomes self-conscious, and her reaction as Zhang Cheng leaves hints at growing feelings, though she attributes her excitement to imagining her future Sylveon.

Significant themes

• Learning and mentorship: Zhang Cheng patiently breaks down difficult material and offers follow-up notes.
• Trainer choice and personal preference: Eevee’s evolution is presented as both a strategic decision and a matter of what a Trainer likes.
• Emerging affection: Their attentive conversation and Wu Yueyue’s flustered feelings suggest a budding emotional connection.

Key plot points and events

• Zhang Cheng massages Poliwag and Pidgey before bed, then sets an alarm for the next day’s practical battle lesson.
• At breakfast, he catches up with Ye Tian. They had missed each other the previous evening: Zhang Cheng had left after finishing a test early, while Ye Tian went to battle a classmate.
• At the Training Grounds, Zhang Cheng lines up Class One as class monitor. Instructor Bai Yuling announces that she will demonstrate battle instruction by facing his Pokémon and assessing their weaknesses. She promises to limit her Pokémon’s attacks to roughly level-10 strength, despite her much greater experience.
• Bai invites Zhang Cheng to sit beside her. After he admits he was admiring her legs, she blushes and changes the subject to his university plans.
• Zhang says he hopes to attend Sakura University because he loves his hometown. Bai suggests considering Modu University, where she is a third-year student and says the resources are excellent.

Character developments

• Zhang is affectionate and attentive toward Poliwag and Pidgey, whom he sees as important to his future success.
• He is confident and candid, both in teasing conversation with Ye Tian and when answering Bai’s personal questions.
• Bai shifts from her formal instructor persona to a playful, more personal manner. Her reaction to Zhang’s compliment reveals a flustered side.

Significant themes

• Training and responsibility: Zhang’s care for his Pokémon and the upcoming practical lesson show the work behind developing a team.
• Ambition versus attachment: Zhang values Sakura University because of his connection to home, while Bai emphasizes the advantages of a prestigious school.
• Formal roles and personal rapport: The lesson begins with Bai as teacher and Zhang as student, but their conversation becomes teasing and familiar.

Character interactions

• Zhang and Ye Tian clear up why they failed to meet the previous night; Ye Tian also worries that Zhang’s early test submission may cause trouble.
• Zhang’s classmates tease him when Bai chooses him for her demonstration opponent.
• Bai and Zhang exchange playful remarks beneath the tree, then discuss his future studies and her own university experience.

Plot points and events

• Zhang Cheng is astonished to learn that Bai Yuling became a Gym Leader–level Trainer at nineteen. He asks why she left Modu for Jiangcheng; she says she may explain later.
• Bai Yuling and Zhang Cheng exchange contacts. She jokes that she will be gentle in their upcoming training battle, while privately enjoying the chance to get even with him for causing trouble on his first day.
• In the practical lesson, Bai Yuling sends out her level-55, A-potential Altaria, a rare Pokémon in Huaxia. Zhang Cheng checks her impressive moves and held Life Orb, and realizes just how formidable she is.
• Zhang Cheng nevertheless accepts the challenge and sends out his level-10 Poliwag, hoping the battle will help it grow.
• Poliwag’s Hypnosis misses because Altaria’s much higher level makes the move less accurate. Bai Yuling explains the disadvantage.
• Poliwag then tries Bubble Beam, but Altaria’s unavoidable Disarming Voice interrupts the attack and badly hurts him. Bai Yuling has restrained Altaria’s power to avoid knocking him out in one hit.

Character development

• Zhang Cheng is surprised by Bai Yuling’s age and strength, but remains eager to challenge a far stronger opponent rather than back down.
• Bai Yuling shows a teasing, playful side, while also acting as a responsible teacher by explaining the battle mechanics and controlling Altaria’s power.

Significant themes

• Growth through challenge: Zhang Cheng sees battling stronger opponents as a chance to train Poliwag.
• Experience and level advantage: The fight demonstrates how a large level gap can undermine a Trainer’s strategy.
• Mentorship balanced with teasing: Bai Yuling makes the lesson competitive but keeps the danger under control.

Character interactions

• Bai Yuling teases Zhang Cheng about being frightened; he responds with determination and sends Poliwag into battle.
• Poliwag and Altaria briefly greet one another before taking their positions.
• During the fight, Bai Yuling guides Zhang Cheng by explaining why Hypnosis failed, while her carefully restrained attack shows concern for Poliwag’s safety.

Plot points and events

• Zhang Cheng’s Poliwag spends much of the battle defending against Bai Yuling’s Altaria, steadily losing HP while Altaria holds back with weaker attacks.
• At the right moment, Zhang Cheng has Poliwag use Mind Reader, then Endeavor. Because Poliwag is nearly defeated, Endeavor deals heavy damage and brings Altaria close to fainting.
• Poliwag follows with Water Gun, but Altaria blocks it with Protect and finishes Poliwag with Disarming Voice. Altaria wins, though both Pokémon were pushed to critical condition.
• Zhang Cheng takes both Pokémon to the Treatment Room, then returns to watch Bai Yuling battle another student. She has switched to her second Pokémon: a rare Level 52 Primarina.

Character developments and interactions

• Zhang Cheng shows strategic thinking by setting up Endeavor with Mind Reader, and humility by acknowledging that luck, Altaria’s close-range attack, and Bai Yuling’s restraint helped create his opening.
• Bai Yuling is impressed by Zhang Cheng’s tactics and praises him as a capable class monitor. She values his modesty and recognizes that he has learned from the battle.
• The students watching are surprised by how close Zhang Cheng brings the battle, and then by Altaria’s last-second turnaround.

Significant themes

• Strategy against superior strength: Zhang Cheng uses timing and move combinations to challenge Altaria’s major Level advantage.
• Composure and adaptability: Bai Yuling and Altaria preserve their advantage through careful decisions, especially Protect at the decisive moment.
• Humility and learning: Zhang Cheng accepts defeat openly and treats the battle as an opportunity to improve.

1. Key plot points and events

• Primarina’s sound-converting Ability, combined with Mystic Water, makes her exceptionally powerful. The novice students’ battles against her end in quick defeats.
• After the class, Bai Yuling gives each student advice on their battle mistakes, helping them improve their training and combat experience.
• Zhang Cheng accompanies Bai Yuling to the Treatment Room to collect Poliwag and her Altaria. Both Pokémon have recovered and are happily playing together.
• Zhang Cheng agrees to bring Bai Yuling dinner after she admits she is too tired to leave the dorm.
• At the Cafeteria, he tells Ye Tian that Poliwag’s injury was minor. Ye Tian complains that the class battles were only between classmates, not against the instructor, and Zhang Cheng advises him to be patient.
• Zhang Cheng takes Bai Yuling’s packed meal to her dormitory and knocks on her door.

2. Character developments

• Zhang Cheng shows calm initiative during battle class and accepts responsibility for Poliwag’s care. He also becomes flustered when he mistakes Bai Yuling’s dinner question for an invitation, then quickly agrees to help her.
• Bai Yuling recognizes Zhang Cheng’s tactical composure and praises his potential, while teasing him and casually asking him to help with her Pokémon.
• Ye Tian remains eager to gain experience against stronger Pokémon, but takes Zhang Cheng’s advice to wait for future opportunities.
• Poliwag and Altaria recover well and appear to have formed a friendly bond. Altaria is gentle but still wary of Zhang Cheng’s touch.

3. Significant themes

• Learning through practice: Battles and constructive feedback help novice Trainers identify weaknesses and grow.
• Patience and experience: Ye Tian’s desire for tougher battles is balanced by Zhang Cheng’s reminder that opportunities will come.
• Trust and companionship: The Pokémon’s growing friendship—and Altaria’s reserve around a relative stranger—reflect relationships developing over time.
• Humor and miscommunication: Zhang Cheng’s mistaken assumption about dinner creates a playful contrast with Bai Yuling’s straightforward request.

4. Character interactions

• Bai Yuling praises and teases Zhang Cheng, while he responds modestly and becomes embarrassed by her practical requests.
• Zhang Cheng shows affection toward Poliwag and tries to pet Altaria; Altaria pulls away, prompting Bai Yuling to explain her caution around strangers.
• Zhang Cheng and Ye Tian discuss the day’s classes, Poliwag’s recovery, and Ye Tian’s desire for more challenging battles.
• Ye Tian misreads Zhang Cheng’s dinner delivery as a romantic opportunity, leaving Zhang Cheng unsure how to correct him.

Key plot points and events

• After leaving Bai Yuling’s dorm, Zhang Cheng feeds and bathes his Poliwag and Pidgey, then heads to bed late.
• Bai Yuling messages him and persuades him to play phone games with her until nearly 3 a.m.
• Exhausted the next morning, Zhang Cheng arrives in class and sleeps through most of Bai Yuling’s Pokémon theory lecture. She lets him sleep.
• At lunch, Ye Tian asks about Zhang Cheng’s close battle with a teacher’s Altaria. Zhang Cheng credits his use of Endeavor for nearly making it faint. He invites Ye Tian to spar that evening.
• In the afternoon, the class works on practice questions. Zhang Cheng finds them too easy and tells Bai Yuling he has already mastered the high-school Pokémon theory material.

Character developments

• Zhang Cheng shows care and responsibility toward his Pokémon, but his late-night routine leaves him badly sleep-deprived. He is also confident—perhaps boastful—about his knowledge and abilities.
• Bai Yuling is playful and teasing, both in her private messages and in class. Despite having kept Zhang Cheng up late, she appears energetic and kindly lets him sleep during her lecture.
• Ye Tian is impressed by Zhang Cheng’s battle performance and shows concern for his well-being.

Significant themes

• Care and responsibility: Zhang Cheng’s feeding and bathing routine reflects his growing attachment to his Pokémon.
• Confidence and ambition: Zhang Cheng is proud of his knowledge and seeks to test himself by arranging a spar with Ye Tian.
• Playful authority and friendship: Bai Yuling uses her position as teacher—and her “sis” relationship with Zhang Cheng—to tease and coax him.
• The cost of poor choices: Zhang Cheng’s willingness to stay up gaming leaves him struggling through class the next day.

Character interactions

• Bai Yuling playfully pressures Zhang Cheng into gaming, then refrains from waking him when he falls asleep in class.
• Ye Tian enthusiastically praises Zhang Cheng’s battle and checks why he looks exhausted; Zhang Cheng responds by arranging an evening spar.
• Bai Yuling and Zhang Cheng exchange teasing messages during practice, ending with her mock-annoyed response to his boast.

Key plot points and events

• After class, Zhang Cheng collects his classmates’ homework and leaves it on Bai Yuling’s desk; she has already slipped away.
• Zhang Cheng and his friend Ye Tian meet to spar. Zhang Cheng wants Poliwag to practice Thief, using Ye Tian’s Butterfree and a Pecha Berry as the target held item.
• In exchange for helping, Zhang Cheng promises Ye Tian four of his berries. Butterfree successfully takes the berry as a held item, and it can shift between energy and physical form.
• Poliwag repeatedly attempts Thief. Its success rate rises to about 40%, and successful hits both damage Butterfree and transfer the berry to Poliwag.
• Zhang Cheng stops the session before the Pokémon are overworked, then gives Ye Tian the promised berries. The two trade jokes and part on friendly terms.
• Later, Zhang Cheng feeds Poliwag and Pidgey Pokéblocks and goes to bed. Over the following six days, he attends classes, chats and plays games with Bai Yuling, and looks forward to the weekly Sunday break.

Character developments

• Zhang Cheng shows initiative in arranging purposeful training and considers his Pokémon’s stamina. He is also relaxed about theory classes, where Bai Yuling lets him sleep or use his phone.
• Poliwag makes steady progress with Thief through repeated practice, though the move is not yet reliable.
• Ye Tian is eager to help once he learns he will receive four Pecha Berries, but his joking enthusiasm reflects the pair’s comfortable friendship.
• Bai Yuling remains a regular presence in Zhang Cheng’s routine, corresponding with him outside class and tolerating his disengagement during theory lessons.

Significant themes

• Practice and gradual improvement: Poliwag’s accuracy grows through repetition and real battle experience.
• Training responsibly: Zhang Cheng ends the session when the Pokémon have spent too much energy.
• Friendship beyond material exchange: The berries are a playful bargain, not a measure of the friends’ bond.
• Contrasting attitudes toward study: Zhang Cheng is animated by practical battle lessons but unmotivated by theory, while the chapter also shows his unusually easygoing school routine.

Character interactions

• Zhang Cheng and Ye Tian negotiate the berry-for-training deal, spar through their Pokémon, and finish with affectionate teasing.
• Zhang Cheng’s brief interaction with Bai Yuling is indirect when he leaves the homework at her desk; later, they keep in touch through messages and games.

Key plot points and events

• After class, Zhang Cheng and Ye Tian plan an evening sparring match, but Ye Tian cancels it to rest his Butterfree before the Beginner Trainer assessment.
• Both friends qualify for the assessment with a Pokémon at Level 10 or higher. They decide to take it together, partly because earning a Trainer title brings a League reward of 20,000 Pokémon Coins.
• Zhang Cheng learns from Bai Yuling that the upcoming college entrance exam will require applicants to earn the Ordinary Trainer title. Its assessment requires two Pokémon of at least Level 21 and involves a random ice, grass, water, or rock battlefield.
• Bai Yuling explains that the Beginner Trainer assessment is a one-on-one battle against a Level 10 Pokémon, with no type advantage over the examinee’s Pokémon.
• Zhang Cheng passes this information to Ye Tian. The next morning, they meet for breakfast before heading to the assessment.

Character developments and interactions

• Zhang Cheng is confident in his own training and believes he can reach a prestigious university, despite the tougher entrance requirements.
• Ye Tian is enthusiastic about advancing Butterfree and openly motivated by the assessment’s monetary reward. He and Zhang Cheng support one another while respecting each other’s independence.
• Zhang Cheng chats playfully with Bai Yuling, whom he calls “sis,” and asks her for assessment advice. She responds warmly as both his instructor and an experienced Trainer.
• Zhang Cheng shares Bai Yuling’s guidance with Ye Tian, helping his friend prepare.

Significant themes

• Friendship and mutual support: Zhang Cheng and Ye Tian train together, exchange useful information, and give each other space.
• Competition and ambition: Trainer titles and university admission set concrete goals, while rising requirements reflect growing competition among aspiring Trainers.
• Preparation and opportunity: Learning the assessment rules helps the boys approach their challenge with greater confidence.
• Effort and merit: The League’s higher qualification standards aim to distinguish Trainers who have developed the necessary ability and commitment.

Key plot points and events

• Zhang Cheng and Ye Tian travel to the Challenge Tower to earn Trainer titles. Ye Tian persuades Zhang Cheng to rent a Rapidash instead of taking a cheaper taxi.
• At the tower, they register and receive separate battle rooms and examiners.
• Zhang Cheng faces an examiner’s level-10 Krabby. After studying its strengths and weaknesses, he has Poliwag evade Krabby’s powerful Vise Grip and answer its weaker Bubble with Bubble Beam.
• Poliwag defeats Krabby by maintaining its distance and finishing it with Water Gun. Zhang Cheng earns the Beginner Trainer title, has it recorded, and waits for Ye Tian, who is still battling.

Character developments

• Zhang Cheng demonstrates tactical judgment, composure, and modesty. He adapts to Krabby’s moves and doesn’t let his advantage make him careless.
• Poliwag shows experience and discipline, following a strategy of dodging physical attacks and countering ranged ones.
• Ye Tian’s preference for expensive Pokémon transport suggests confidence and a taste for luxury, though his assessment result is not yet revealed.

Significant themes

• Strategy over raw strength: Zhang Cheng wins by exploiting Krabby’s low Special Defense and avoiding its powerful pincers.
• Growth and achievement: Earning a title requires formal testing, and Zhang Cheng recognizes that it is only an early step in a longer journey.
• Fairness and standards: The tower’s monitored battles and official registration support transparent certification.

Character interactions

• Ye Tian persuades Zhang Cheng to travel by Rapidash.
• Zhang Cheng speaks politely with the examiner, who praises Poliwag and later commends Zhang Cheng’s talent.
• Zhang Cheng responds to the praise with humility, then acknowledges the examiner before leaving.

Plot points and events

• Zhang Cheng and Ye Tian leave the Challenge Tower after registering Ye Tian’s result. Ye Tian boasts about how easily his Butterfree handled a Beedrill, while Zhang Cheng jokingly indulges him. Ye Tian is especially eager to receive the 20,000 Pokémon Coins he won.
• Back at school, the friends spar through the afternoon. Poliwag reaches level 11 and Butterfree level 12, so both Pokémon are rested rather than pushed into further battles.
• Zhang Cheng reminds Ye Tian that he needs a second Pokémon for the next Ordinary-rank Trainer Assessment. Ye Tian wants to choose one carefully instead of catching the first available Pokémon.
• That evening, Zhang Cheng hears from Bai Yuling that the Elite Classes will hold a friendly competition next Friday and Saturday. Each class must select ten students. The top three will earn access to the principal’s Safari Zone to catch Pokémon.
• Bai Yuling asks Zhang Cheng to help organize his class’s team, then persuades him to play games with her late into the night. He arrives at class exhausted and sleeps through the morning lesson.
• At lunch, Ye Tian tells Zhang Cheng that his class has also been informed about the competition. Both are excited by the chance to explore the Safari Zone, though access to its rare-Pokémon section may depend on the principal.

Character developments and interactions

• Zhang Cheng remains focused on training but is laid-back about competition and schoolwork. He teases Ye Tian, avoids arguing over Ye Tian’s bragging, and is willing to help with class preparations.
• Ye Tian is proud of Butterfree’s performance and eagerly anticipates his prize money. He shows patience in choosing a second Pokémon, prioritizing suitability over speed.
• Zhang Cheng and Ye Tian share a competitive but supportive friendship: they spar regularly, encourage each other’s progress, and discuss their next assessment and the upcoming match.
• Bai Yuling acts as both Zhang Cheng’s classmate and older-sister figure. She passes along useful news and recruits him to help select competitors, but also keeps him gaming late despite his protests.
• The Pokémon are shown recovering and adjusting after leveling up, reinforcing that training requires rest as well as effort.

Significant themes

• Steady growth: Regular practice and battle experience help both Pokémon level up.
• Preparation and choice: Trainers must balance immediate competition with thoughtful decisions, such as selecting a suitable second Pokémon.
• Friendly rivalry and camaraderie: Competition motivates the characters while their training and teasing remain affectionate.
• Rewards and opportunity: The Safari Zone prize gives the interclass match higher stakes and a chance for the students to expand their teams.

Key plot points and events

• Zhang Cheng is tasked with selecting ten students from his class for a friendly tournament against Class Two. After discussing Class Two’s challenge-based selection method with Ye Tian, he devises a faster version: choose the ten students with the highest-level Pokémon, then give each remaining student one chance to challenge a selected participant.
• In Tuesday’s practical class, the ten strongest Pokémon by level are initially selected. Zhang Cheng’s level 11 Poliwag is the only Pokémon at that level; Wu Yueyue’s Eevee and most others are level 10, while the remaining students have level 9 Pokémon.
• Nobody challenges Zhang Cheng, still wary of Poliwag’s earlier victory over Altaria. After a day of battles, one level 9 Pokémon earns a place on the final roster; the other nine participants have level 10 Pokémon, alongside Zhang’s level 11 Poliwag.
• Zhang submits the roster to Bai Yuling. The tournament will use random draws, with three Trainers ultimately earning permission to catch a Pokémon. Zhang hopes to place in the top three and catch the Pokémon he wants.
• The tournament is set for Friday. On Thursday, Zhang and Ye Tian compare the strengths of their respective classes: Class One has mostly level 10 Pokémon, while Class Two has two level 11 Pokémon—Ye Tian’s and Hao Chenggong’s Tepig—and the rest are level 10.

Character developments and interactions

• Zhang shows practical leadership and strategic thinking. He seeks a selection process that balances accuracy, speed, and class time, accepting that perfect fairness is impossible.
• Ye Tian offers Zhang insight into Class Two’s selection method and later compares the teams’ strengths with him. Their conversation remains friendly, even though they may compete.
• Zhang’s Poliwag’s reputation has grown: its earlier battle against Altaria intimidates classmates enough that none chooses Zhang as a challenge opponent.
• The class accepts the selection rules despite some disappointment, and the challengers compete for places.

Significant themes

• Fairness versus efficiency: Zhang’s streamlined selection method is less exact than repeated challenges, but saves time and preserves lessons.
• Luck and merit: The tournament’s random draws can strongly affect outcomes, yet the chapter suggests strength ultimately matters more than luck.
• Competition and ambition: Students seek tournament places and the chance to catch Pokémon, while Zhang aims to finish among the top three.

Key plot points and events

• Before the tournament, Ye Tian and Zhang Cheng agree that advancing is their priority and hope not to face each other. They train their Pokémon that evening.
• The next morning, the school begins a ten-match tournament between Class One and Class Two, with professional referees overseeing it. Two battles are held at once.
• Zhang Cheng draws first and is matched against Li Yue, whose Spearow is considered one of Class Two’s weaker entries. Ye Tian draws Wu Yueyue; Zhang expects Ye Tian to win. Zhang also notices Ye Lang in the tournament and hopes to face him later.
• In their opening battle, Zhang’s Poliwag initially trades attacks with Spearow. Zhang turns the fight by using Mind Reader to counter Spearow’s aerial evasions, then follows with Bubble Beam.
• Li Yue tries to rally with Spearow’s newly learned Steel Wing. Zhang prioritizes protecting Poliwag from injury ahead of the afternoon’s second round, but the attack still lands with reduced force. Spearow is too exhausted to continue and is defeated by Poliwag’s repeated Water Gun.

Character developments

• Zhang shows confidence and strategic judgment. Rather than simply endure Spearow’s powerful final attack to finish the match faster, he weighs the risk of injury against the coming round.
• Li Yue demonstrates some care in training Spearow, teaching it Steel Wing, but his unfamiliarity with Mind Reader costs him an opportunity to respond effectively.
• Ye Tian remains Zhang’s trusted rival and fellow contender, though his battle has not yet taken place.

Significant themes

• Preparation and knowledge: Zhang’s tactical use of Mind Reader contrasts with Li Yue’s lack of familiarity with the move.
• Strategy over brute force: Zhang adapts to Spearow’s speed and later chooses caution over a quick victory.
• Tournament pressure and future planning: Winning matters, but preserving Pokémon for later matches is also important.

Character interactions

• Zhang and Ye Tian discuss their chances before the tournament and train in parallel.
• Zhang and Li Yue face off in the first match, with Zhang’s informed tactics overcoming Li Yue’s attempted counterattack.
• Zhang’s thoughts about Ye Lang reveal an unresolved competitive rivalry and his desire to defeat him later.

Key plot points and events

• Zhang Cheng advises Li Yue to gain practical experience and study battle theory. Li Yue thanks him and confidently promises a rematch; Zhang Cheng accepts before leaving the battlefield.
• The next two matches are won by Class Two, reinforcing its advantage. Zhang Cheng remains Class One’s only contestant to advance so far.
• Ye Tian faces Wu Yueyue. Their Pokémon are Butterfree and Eevee, respectively. Zhang Cheng checks their stats and recognizes Eevee’s strong potential, useful moves, and Adaptability, while Butterfree has the advantages of higher level, Confusion, Sleep Powder, Protect, and a Pecha Berry.
• Ye Tian uses Butterfree’s speed and ranged attacks to keep Eevee at a distance. Wu Yueyue responds cleverly with Wish to recover and wait for an opening.
• Wu Yueyue times a powerful Thrash after Butterfree tires, but Ye Tian counters it with Protect. With Eevee nearly exhausted, Butterfree catches her retreating opponent with Bug Bite and wins the match.

Character development and interactions

• Zhang Cheng comes across as generous toward Li Yue and supportive of Ye Tian, while also demonstrating his tactical knowledge by assessing the Pokémon and anticipating the battle’s outcome.
• Li Yue shows confidence and a desire to improve, promising to challenge Zhang Cheng again.
• Ye Tian and Wu Yueyue remain friendly former classmates, but both fight seriously as a way of respecting each other. Wu Yueyue displays patience and strong tactical judgment; Ye Tian shows experience and composure, saving Protect for the decisive moment.
• The results underline the growing divide between the classes: Class Two is dominating, while Class One faces further eliminations.

Significant themes

• Tactics and experience: Knowledge, timing, and reading an opponent can matter as much as raw strength.
• Preparation and counterplay: Wu Yueyue’s carefully planned Thrash is defeated by Ye Tian’s well-chosen Protect.
• Respectful competition: Friendship does not prevent the Trainers from giving their all in battle.
• Uneven strength: The match results emphasize Class Two’s overall advantage over Class One.