142: Rustboro No. 3 Middle School! The Competitive Exchange Begins!
"Blaziken, let's round up those three."
Qin Yun's voice was steady as his Blaziken leaped forward, easily subduing the three members of Team Magma. Without their Pokémon, they were like helpless lambs in the Fighting-type's grip. The fiery aura around Blaziken faded as it obeyed Qin Yun's command, ensuring they were no longer a threat.
"Rustboro No. 3… the third-ranked school in the city. No big deal." Qin Yun muttered, his expression calm but calculating.
The high-speed train to Rustboro City would take about five hours, meaning they would arrive around 11 PM. A good night's rest was still possible before the exchange competition.
Serena and Su Leyan, standing nearby, were visibly surprised.
"Principal, don't worry," Qin Yun assured. "We won't let you down."
For this event, the principal had secured a fund of 100,000 Pokémon dollars to cover travel, lodging, and other expenses. Yet, as soon as she saw Qin Yun, her face flushed, and she lowered her gaze perhaps still recalling his recent feats.
Qin Yun had made waves in the trainer community. From dismantling a criminal scheme involving Team Magma to proving his mettle in battles, his name was rapidly gaining recognition.
Rustboro No. 3 Middle School was renowned for its facilities, boasting state-of-the-art Pokémon training grounds, a vast library of Technical Machines, and even an expansive Pokémon garden maintained by professional Breeders. This wasn't just an exchange competition it was an opportunity for growth.
"Qin Yun, don't underestimate Rustboro No. 3," the principal warned. "You're strong, but overconfidence can be a downfall."
Qin Yun nodded, acknowledging the concern. He had heard rumors that three students from Rustboro No. 3 had already defeated a Gym Leader and obtained the Friendship Badge. The challenge ahead would not be easy.
By 10 AM the next morning, they boarded the train. While there were no professional trainers among the passengers, some high-level Pokémon were present, ensuring safety throughout the journey.
"Good," Qin Yun murmured as he glanced at his PokéNav.
The trip to Rustboro was smooth, allowing the group to relax. The city was at least ten times the size of Jiangcheng, a sprawling metropolis filled with towering buildings and busy streets. The sight of such a developed region put things into perspective Rustboro Province had always been leagues ahead in education and infrastructure compared to Petalburg Province.
"I don't know if I'll ever be like Qin Yun," Luo Qing sighed, glancing at him with admiration.
The contrast between their schools was staggering. Jiangcheng No. 3 Middle School's facilities paled in comparison. Even Jiangcheng No. 1 Middle School wasn't as well-equipped as Rustboro No. 3.
Arriving at Rustboro Station, the principal led the group toward their accommodations. The city's skyline loomed in the distance, shimmering in the night.
"This is Rustboro No. 3 Middle School," Qin Yun muttered, taking in the sight of the massive campus.
The school's reputation was well-earned. More than 95% of its graduates obtained permanent trainer licenses, and 22% had advanced to elite trainer status. Over the past 30 years, the school had produced nearly 100 professional trainers and even three Elite Four-level trainers. It was no wonder that Rustboro Province dominated trainer rankings.
As the group explored the school, they were introduced to a state-of-the-art data testing room.
"Want to give it a try?" a faculty member asked. "Our senior students undergo this test monthly. The results help shape their training regimens for optimal growth."
Qin Yun's interest was piqued.
In addition to its training grounds, the school had specialized arenas, including a controlled Sunny Day environment for Fire- and Grass-type Pokémon. There were even automated and semi-automated battle simulators, allowing students to practice against AI-controlled Pokémon modeled after real-life battle data.
As the visit continued, the reality of the situation became clear.
Rustboro No. 3 Middle School wasn't just bigger it was better.
Back on the train, the principal sighed.
"Rustboro Province invests heavily in education," he admitted. "Even among the top 100 high schools in the Hoenn War Zone, our Petalburg Province has only two—one ranked 7th and another at 65th. Meanwhile, Rustboro Province has fifteen in the top 100, with two in the top ten."
The disparity was undeniable.
Qin Yun checked the time. It was already past noon. If they encountered delays, they might not reach Petalburg City until late afternoon.
"Boy Qin," the principal said seriously. "Rustboro No. 3 has three students who have already beaten a Gym Leader. Don't underestimate them."
Qin Yun smirked.
"Wouldn't dream of it."
As the school tour concluded, the excitement in the air was palpable. The upcoming battles would be intense, but Qin Yun was ready.
This wasn't just a friendly exchange.
It was a proving ground.
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