Grant glanced at Aaron and said,
"In that secret zone, there's a special location that can temporarily and significantly enhance a Pokémon's comprehension. That's crucial if you're aiming to unlock Apotheosis-tier moves…"
"The chances may be slim, but it's still a rare opportunity—something you don't just come across."
"Even if your Pokémon's move proficiency hasn't reached the Perfect level yet, they can still gain a hint of insight ahead of time and build a foundation for the future."
A spark of interest flickered across Aaron's face.
There was still one month before the exam.
Frog Boss could easily push all his moves to the Perfect level within that time. As for his other Pokémon, with the Pokémon Training Space accelerating their progress, even if they didn't fully reach Perfect, they'd be close.
If they could gain early insight into the Apotheosis tier, it would be a major advantage down the line.
But something felt off.
Wasn't Major Grant drifting away from the original question?
Aaron voiced his confusion.
Grant paused for a moment, then smiled.
"Easy now. I was just getting to that."
"This newly discovered secret zone is still unstable. For now, it only allows trainers below Gym level to enter… and the number of slots is strictly limited. After multiple tests, we've confirmed that only fifteen people can go in."
"So the authorities decided that this year's top ten finishers will earn entry."
"As for the remaining five spots… they'll go to the top five on the Hidden Dragon List."
This time, Grant dropped the pretense and got straight to the real reason behind this year's exam.
Understanding dawned on Aaron.
"So that's why so many prodigies turned down special recruitment this year—they're aiming for a top ten finish to secure a slot in the secret zone, right?"
Grant nodded, a trace of envy in his voice.
"That's right. This year's exam might be the most competitive in history."
"But it also offers the greatest opportunity."
"So… you'd better work hard, Aaron."
Grant looked at him with a faint smile, clearly hoping to see some sign of pressure on his face.
Instead, Aaron simply looked enlightened. Then he frowned slightly.
"One more thing… Major Grant, what exactly is the Hidden Dragon List?"
Grant blinked in surprise.
"You don't know about the Hidden Dragon List?"
He gave Aaron an odd look before continuing.
"The Hidden Dragon List comes from one of the country's most important relics—the Hidden Dragon Tower."
"Hidden Dragon Tower?"
The name tugged at something in Aaron's memory.
"I remember…"
The words slipped out unconsciously.
The Hidden Dragon Tower was an ancient structure of unknown origin. It had stood within the country for as long as anyone could remember. Its purpose was simple: to test the potential of young trainers. Anyone eighteen or younger could enter and take on its trials. The higher you climbed, the more talent you proved.
Over time, the tower began displaying the names of the top one hundred challengers. That ranking eventually became known as the Hidden Dragon List.
Making the list was a huge honor. It meant nationwide recognition, along with generous rewards.
Both fame and real benefits.
Just as the memories surfaced clearly in his mind—
"Ding~ Quest Triggered: Reach the Top of the Hidden Dragon List!"
"What a golden chance to show off—no way you're skipping this. It's your time to shine! Go make a name for yourself and take the top spot on the Hidden Dragon List…"
"Mission Rewards: Eight Inner Gates Technique (Skill Card) ×1, Fivefold Lightning Strike (Skill Card) ×1…"
The system's excited voice rang in Aaron's ears.
His eyes lit up like twin lightbulbs.
Practically glowing.
"This chance to show off… I'm absolutely taking it."
"And it's definitely not because of Might Guy and Rock Lee's ultimate techniques. Definitely not."
A slow smile spread across Aaron's lips as he muttered to himself.
...