Psychic-type Pokémon are mentally powerful but physically vulnerable.
In other words, the HP bars of Psychic Pokémon tend to be fragile.
Especially Cade's Kadabra, whose strength was artificially enhanced by psychic powers, its true capabilities were far from exceeding those of a novice-level Pokémon.
Therefore, even though Fighting-type moves only deal half damage to Psychic-types, they still managed to defeat him instantly.
"I declare that the winner of the Capital Nova Cup and the recipient of the chief recommended student position is Roy!" announced the referee.
The audience fell silent in shock.
Everything had happened so quickly.
Just moments ago, Cade was laughing wildly about his calculated sequence, making everyone believe his victory was assured.
The next second, Riolu released an Aura Sphere—an impossible move for its species—and defeated Kadabra in mere seconds.
After a moment of stunned silence, the crowd began discussing in bewilderment.
"The promised instant end to the battle... was that it?"
"Haha, Cade was right. The battle did end instantly, but he was the one who lost."
"Roy made it all the way to the finals while keeping Aura Sphere hidden as his trump card? This kid is terrifying—he's not to be underestimated!"
"Wait, if I remember correctly, isn't it impossible for Riolu to learn Aura Sphere?"
—Aura Sphere.
This rare move involves the legendary 'aura power.'
For a long time, people believed this move could only be performed by legendary Pokémon who wielded godlike power.
That's how rare it was.
It wasn't until the Pokédex was gradually completed that trainers learned that fewer than ten Pokémon—including Lucario, Clawitzer, Mienshao—could naturally learn Aura Sphere.
...Currently, no one has successfully documented the secrets of learning 'Aura Sphere.'
Before Riolu evolves into Lucario, it should theoretically be impossible for it to learn Aura Sphere.
The discussions continued until the award ceremony began.
After ruling out all possibilities, they reached one conclusion:
"This Riolu's talent with aura is extraordinary!"
It was the only explanation.
They couldn't believe that Roy, a rookie trainer, had experimentally uncovered the secret to teaching 'Aura Sphere.' Even professional breeders and researchers struggled with this topic due to the limited number of Pokémon that could learn the move.
At the same time, they didn't believe Roy had awakened aura powers himself.
Given Roy's background, he hadn't received support to awaken and practice psychic abilities.
A naturally gifted Riolu acquiring Aura Sphere was the only explanation that made sense.
Some students suddenly remembered Roy's bold claim:
"My Riolu has what it takes to become a champion!"
Their expressions turned strange.
No way.
Was Roy not just bragging, but actually telling the truth?
Judging from today's performance, this Riolu's talent had outshined even Elite Sebastian's ace Pokémon, the strongest Fighting-type in the region.
Stronger than an Elite's ace Pokémon...
There was only one step further—becoming champion.
'This... doesn't seem impossible.'
The premonition took root in people's minds and lingered for a long time.
In the previous battles, Riolu had been seriously injured. Roy had rushed Riolu to the healing chamber as soon as each match ended.
In contrast, during the final round, apart from expending significant energy, Riolu hadn't sustained any damage at all and didn't need medical attention.
Roy returned to the competitors' room, and soon Professor Christian approached with several teachers. His face bore a warm, chrysanthemum-like smile as he gave Roy a bear hug.
"Well done, my boy! You've truly given me a wonderful surprise."
Professor Christian released Roy, looking at him with increasingly satisfied eyes, wondering if any of his relatives had daughters of the same age—it would be a shame not to secure such high-quality potential...
Unfortunately, after much consideration, Professor Christian realized he only had one unmarried eight-year-old granddaughter.
He reluctantly abandoned his matchmaking ambitions, though such thoughts seemed increasingly common these days.
"Come, follow me to receive your award. Afterward, you'll be interviewed by the media."
Professor Christian took Roy's hand and personally led the way.
"If reporters ask something you don't wish to answer, just smile and remain silent. The university will handle it."
"Understood," Roy nodded.
Although Capital University was just a school, its influence was substantial.
Even after graduation, trainers maintained connections with their alma mater by joining the alumni association. Even Elite Sebastian was a member, demonstrating the university's formidable network.
If necessary, they could simply eject media personnel, who would have no choice but to accept it.
Of course, that wouldn't be necessary. Fame and publicity were beneficial for trainers.
Recognition and public attention were important channels for trainers to earn money.
"Also, after the competition, many companies will approach you for endorsements," Professor Christian continued. "If you have questions about fees, you can contact me or the university's legal department. We'll ensure you're treated fairly. However, I don't recommend accepting too many endorsements—one or two is sufficient. Otherwise, it will interfere with your studies."
"Short-term gains versus long-term future—I hope you can distinguish what's truly important."
"Of course, all this depends on your decision. The university won't force you."
Roy listened attentively, thinking to himself, "It's good to have connections."
Following Professor Christian to the award platform, Roy didn't receive a trophy, only a certificate as "Chief Recommended Student."
The Nova Cup was essentially an entrance examination that evolved into a popular public competition, allowing the university to earn ticket sales and advertising revenue.
While there was no trophy, the prizes were generous:
First, as long as Roy maintained his qualification as chief recommended student, he would receive a 300,000 Pokédollar scholarship each semester.
First place in the entrance exam: 100,000 Pokédollars. Maintaining first place in midterm exams: another 100,000. Finishing first in the final exams: the last 100,000.
Second, Roy earned the privilege of selecting one Pokémon egg from Capital City's official breeding house.
Reportedly, the breeding house contained eggs of almost all Pokémon types, except for legendaries.
Third, Roy gained free access to all floors of the university library, which contained most TMs available.
The more valuable TMs could also be purchased through the school's internal channels at discounted prices.
Items like evolution stones, premium Pokémon food, berries, and special Poké Balls were all available at internal pricing.
Fourth, throughout Roy's education, all of his Pokémon's food, accommodations, and transportation would be provided by the university at the highest standard.
Hearing this, Roy felt like he wasn't simply attending school—he was being treated like visiting royalty.
Was this really what being the chief recommended student meant?
He loved it.