A Connoisseur wasn't a restaurant waiter, but a type of specialist among Pokémon Trainers, formally known as a Pokémon Connoisseur. Women could also become Pokémon Connoisseuses. They assessed the compatibility between Pokémon and their Trainers, using their knowledge and experience to judge the strength of their bond. If that bond was weak, they offered advice on strengthening it.
Connoisseurs were divided into ranks. Those who passed the Pokémon Connoisseur Association's exam became certified C-class Connoisseurs, followed by B, A, and the highest rank, S. Only Connoisseurs of A class or higher were qualified to conduct personality compatibility tests.
"This is the Striaton Gym's Badge. Please accept it." Cress held out a tray bearing a triangular Badge to Ruoling. She picked it up, put it in her Badge case, and quietly thanked him.
"Hey, hey, what are you being so shy for? A boy shouldn't speak so quietly! Speak up! Boys should be full of passion!"
But I'm pretty much the opposite of passionate. And I'm a girl. Rather than contradict him outright, Ruoling kept her response to herself.
"Pfft! Full of passion, huh?" Little Eevee couldn't help snickering. "Come on, correct him, or they'll really take you for a boy!"
...That's mean. Ruoling pursed her lips sulkily, with no intention of explaining herself. She didn't mind being mistaken for a boy.
"If you don't correct them, they'll really think you're a boy, Ling." Shixue kindly broke the awkward silence, though her words dropped a bombshell-at least for the three Gym Leaders and the swooning admirer. Amused, she watched the three freeze with blank expressions that practically said, "What did you say?" She introduced her friend again, emphasizing the last two words to clarify her gender. "Let me introduce her again. This is Ruoling, my friend, and we're traveling together. Also,