The first day of Ray's second year at the academy began with a crisp breeze and a change in the air—not just in temperature, but in tone.
Gone were the nerves of being a rookie. Now, the halls buzzed with confidence, rivalries, and quiet ambition. Students had changed—some stood taller, others had new Pokémon beside them. Ray, with Pidgeotto at his shoulder, felt ready for anything.
That is, until they met their new instructor.
Instructor Delan
The man standing at the front of the classroom was not the soft-spoken Vernis from the year before. He was younger, sharper—maybe mid-thirties—with a firm build and a military posture. His jet-black hair was buzzed short, and he wore the academy's formal vest with the insignia of the Trainer Guild pinned to the collar.
He held a sleek tablet in one hand, flicking through data with swift precision.
"Name's Instructor Delan," he began, voice deep and controlled. "I've already gone through your profiles. Most of you show improvement. Some… barely any."
The class shifted uncomfortably. Ray stayed quiet, watching Delan's fingers swipe across the screen. He noticed the man pause briefly at his name—eyebrows lifting slightly—before moving on.
Delan locked eyes with the group again. "That's fine. I'm not here to sugarcoat anything. You're all still learning. But today, I want to introduce a concept some of you may have ignored until now—specialization."
More Than Just Trainers
Delan walked to the center of the room and set the tablet down.
"Becoming a Pokémon Trainer is a noble goal. But the world doesn't run on battles alone. Some of the most vital figures in society never step foot into a battlefield."
He raised a hand and counted off on his fingers.
"Breeders. Rangers. Researchers. Doctors. Engineers. Logistic support. Habitat specialists."
"Each of these roles requires study, skill, and discipline—sometimes more than what's expected of a battle trainer. And here, at this academy, you have the opportunity to start down one of those paths."
Several students perked up with interest.
Delan nodded approvingly. "Let me give you the rundown."
Career Paths Explained
Breeders:"Focused on nurturing and producing healthy, well-tempered Pokémon, often with desirable traits. Breeders study genetics, diet optimization, and the emotional well-being of Pokémon. Essential for regions with strong League ecosystems."
Rangers:"Patrol wild zones, protect civilians from Pokémon threats, and assist in disaster relief. A mix of combat and field survival. You don't just battle—you intervene."
Researchers:"The backbone of discovery. From evolution theories to aptitude mapping, researchers push the world forward. Expect data analysis, exploration, and technical documentation."
Doctors:"Pokémon medicine is a delicate science. From battlefield injuries to viral outbreaks, Pokémon Doctors are the reason recovery centers work. The most technical—and demanding—profession."
Habitat & Conservation Specialists:"Ensure natural ecosystems are preserved and balanced. Work with governments, rangers, and researchers. Perfect for those who love nature and want to prevent species loss."
Logistics & Support:"Manages supply chains, transport, Pokéball technology, and trainer assistance systems. Without them, no League function could run."
Delan crossed his arms. "And yes, you can mix these tracks. You want to be a Trainer-Doctor? A Researcher-Breeder? It's hard, but not impossible. The academy allows you to try."
The Assignment
He walked back to the desk and picked up his tablet.
"This week, you will review the available programs and submit your preferred specialization—if any. If you want to stay on the general 'Trainer' track, that's valid too."
Ray glanced at Kira, who looked deep in thought.
Delan finished, "Your future isn't a straight road. Don't walk it blind. Your assignment: read, reflect, and by week's end, register your chosen track. Questions, see me directly. Otherwise, dismissed."
After Class
As they left the building, students buzzed with energy, trading thoughts and opinions.
"I think I might try Breeder," someone muttered. "Or maybe Doctor…"
"Ranger sounds cool."
Kira walked beside Ray, arms crossed behind her head. "I never thought about anything except being a battle trainer… but that ranger thing sounds kinda awesome."
Ray didn't answer right away. His mind turned to Dratini, to Statsight, to his own strange gift and how it changed the way he viewed every encounter.
Do I really belong in a single track?
Maybe his path wasn't just one of battle—but of understanding.