September 15, Tuesday.

The highly anticipated University League Semifinals of the Donghuang Region officially kicked off at Ho-Oh’s Nest.

Over ten thousand spectators filled the stands, waving banners and cheering loudly.

Judging by the audience size and the popularity of Pokémon battles, the University League was no less intense than NCAA’s March Madness.

For many, excelling in the University League was like being a rising basketball star destined for the big leagues—an impressive performance here would attract attention even in the Pokémon League Conference.

Some talent scouts, like Ashida, were present, looking to invest in young Trainers with potential.

It was clear that the University League was just as high-profile as any major tournament!

Scrolling through his phone and reading the promotional fluff, Lu Ye scoffed.

"This is just the Baby Cup… Why are they hyping it up like it’s the Master League?"

Shen Tingzhi chuckled softly, though her expression turned slightly melancholic.

"For many young Trainers, this might be the highest stage they ever reach…"

"The University League could be the highlight of their entire journey."

Lu Ye paused for a moment before nodding.

Even in NCAA, some standout players end up fading into obscurity after entering the NBA.

But right now, this league is their time to shine.

Cracking his knuckles, he grinned.

"Alright… now I’m getting fired up."

Hopefully, the opponents were strong enough so Squirtle could just lay low and do nothing.

On the Battle Stage

The match between Imperial University and Jinling University was in full swing.

A massive sandstorm swept across the battlefield, striking the protective barriers with sharp clattering sounds, drawing gasps from the audience.

Within the swirling sands, a sluggish yet deceptively cunning Hippowdon let out a long yawn, its blood-red eyes gleaming mischievously.

Jinling’s Trainer, Su Yu, gritted his teeth.

"Scizor, hang in there! Use Wing Attack!"

Scizor fought off drowsiness and shot forward like an arrow, slashing toward Hippowdon.

Imperial University’s stern-looking Left Yu simply snapped his fingers.

"Rock Tomb."

Boulders rained down, slamming Scizor into the ground and burying it under the shifting sands.

"Victory goes to Left Yu from Imperial University!"

Cheers erupted throughout the stadium, though many murmured in hushed tones.

"Su Yu lost that fast…?"

"And this was just the Singles Match. In the Team Battle, Imperial’s Sandstorm Team is even more terrifying!"

"This is what Imperial University’s legacy looks like…"

In the Team Battle, Imperial University’s Sandstorm strategy easily overpowered Jinling’s defenses, securing their spot in the Finals.

"The first ticket to the Finals has been claimed! Congratulations to Imperial University!"

Applause and cheers filled the air as both teams exchanged respectful handshakes before leaving the stage.

Coach Zhai Wenyao frowned as he watched his longtime rival, Shao Guanghai, Imperial University’s head coach.

"This year, Imperial is going to be tough to beat…"

Lu Ye let out a sigh.

"It really was a Hippowdon, huh?"

No Tyranitar. Unexpected, yet logical.

Coach Zhai nodded. "You think they’ll be difficult to deal with?"

"Yeah…" Lu Ye nodded again.

The chances of Squirtle slacking off just dropped even further.

"No matter what, their Sandstorm Team has weaknesses. We could counter with Torkoal as a backup to change the weather."

Coach Zhai pondered.

"For now, let’s focus on tomorrow’s match against Jiaotong University!"

Under Coach Zhai’s guidance, the Modu team checked into a Shuckle Inn, a well-known hotel chain.

Even on the way to the hotel, people were still animatedly discussing today’s match.

"Imperial has this in the bag, right? Four championships in a row?"

"Not necessarily! Tomorrow’s match between Modu and Jiaotong will decide their opponent!"

"Jiaotong runs a Rain Team, right? Modu’s Trick Room strategy is kinda weak in Singles. I’m betting on Jiaotong!"

Lu Ye rubbed his chin.

Weather teams really rely on their setters going first…

Even in the Baby Cup, coaching strategy and team composition play a huge role.

Despite seeing Imperial University’s dominant performance, the Modu team remained full of energy.

Because this time…

Teacher Lu was competing.

Every team needed a leader—a core.

Even though Lu Ye spent most of his time slacking off, in the eyes of his teammates, he was constantly working hard behind the scenes to craft the perfect training regimens.

Jiang Chen glanced at Lu Ye and chuckled.

"A lot of people have mentioned you in past matches. I think you have a lot of fans here."

Most competitors were young Trainers, and Teacher Lu was incredibly popular among their age group.

Saying this isn’t a viewer battle… but it totally is a viewer battle.

If people found out that Lu Ye was actually competing, Modu University’s audience engagement might skyrocket.

Lu Ye massaged his temples in frustration.

"I swear, I’m just here to slack off!"

This was already the Semifinals—there was no way he’d have to solo five opponents, right?

He glanced down at Squirtle, whose expression was deadly serious.

Lu Ye sighed.

"Winning or losing doesn’t matter… just don’t get hurt, alright?"

Squirtle nodded solemnly, a sharp glint in its eyes.

"Squirtle!ヾ(⌐■_■)"

Though unsure of the enemy’s strength, one thing was certain—

This battle would be brutal.

Squirtle clenched its fists, fully determined.

"I won’t let Master down!"

September 16, Wednesday.

Before the match, Modu University announced their starting lineup.

Lu Ye’s name was on the list.

It was like a thunderclap in the sky—social media exploded with question marks.

"??? Teacher Lu is actually competing?!"

"I thought he was just spectating, but nope—he’s back at it again!"

No one was sure about Teacher Lu’s true strength.

But given how he had outplayed so many top Trainers with pure tactics, how could he possibly be a rookie?

"Is it really fair to be fishing for easy wins in a Baby Cup just for the prize money?!"

"Honestly? This is exactly the kind of thing Teacher Lu would do."

"Wait, didn’t the tournament ban Trainers who’ve competed in other major leagues? What’s Teacher Lu’s deal?"

The tournament organizers quickly convened for a discussion.

"President Tang, here’s this contestant’s file."

The assistant hesitated.

"People online are questioning his eligibility, and it’s causing quite a stir."

President Tang, head of the Donghuang Pokémon League, a man with authority comparable to Charles Goodshow, skimmed the document.

"Everything looks fine… what’s the issue?"

"Some say he’s actually a master-level Trainer who’s traveled through multiple regions…"

President Tang chuckled.

"His records are crystal clear. What, do they think he traveled through time or something? It’s a non-issue. Proceed with the match."

With the official statement, the controversy died down.

Meanwhile, Teacher Lu’s fan army flooded the live broadcast chat.

"I’m here for the legend!"

"LU BAO, GO DESTROY THEM!"

"Coming to the Baby Cup for training… classic Teacher Lu."

With overwhelming cheers and excitement filling the arena…

The battle between Modu University and Jiaotong University was about to begin.

Source: Webnovel.com, updated by Aunomay Read