Ash's eyes shone even brighter. When would he have such boldness as Hu Bin?
Ash gathered his courage, stood up, and bowed to Hu Bin. "Mr. Hu Bin, please take me as your apprentice. I want to learn from you," he said respectfully.
His actions startled both Professor Kukui and Wu Geng. You've got some nerve, kid! You must be one of those social butterflies who knows no fear!
Hu Bin was also taken aback by the determination in Ash's eyes. Ash wants to become my apprentice? Well, well, I really am something!
Hu Bin felt absolutely fantastic!
Pikachu jumped onto the table and bowed to Hu Bin too!
Pikachu pleaded with him to accept his Trainer.
Hu Bin smiled at Ash and Pikachu. "All right, I accept, Ash. But you have to agree to a few conditions!"
Overjoyed that Hu Bin had agreed, Ash hugged Pikachu and said, "Master, whatever your conditions are, I'll agree to them."
"First, training starts tomorrow, and you'll follow all my instructions!" Hu Bin said.
Ash nodded. "I agree, Master!"
Hu Bin continued, "Second, transfer your Pokémon lineup over tomorrow. I'll choose it for you, and we'll start by training these six: first, Pikachu; second, Charizard; third, Sceptile; fourth, Infernape; fifth, Swellow; and sixth, Greninja!"
Ash nodded. The first five were no problem, but Greninja would be a little trickier.
"Master, Greninja is dealing with the problems in the Kalos Region right now. It might be a while before Greninja can come back!" Ash said awkwardly.
Hu Bin rolled his eyes at Ash and called Professor Sycamore.
"Yes, yes. All right. Sorry for the trouble!"
After hanging up, Hu Bin stood and tapped Ash on the head. "You! Can't you pay a little more attention? It's been months. Greninja has already finished and is