"Hahaha, alright, alright, let's drop that topic. I called to tell you that I'll be announcing the evolution method for Slowking on your behalf. I've already spoken with the authorities, and now you're officially a professional Pokémon researcher."

Professor Oak clearly had no interest in taking credit for the Fairy-type discovery. To him, types were simply part of the Pokémon world—nothing more.

The main purpose of his call was to inform Cain that he had arranged for his official recognition as a Pokémon researcher.

When old Matsuda had first introduced Cain to Professor Oak, Cain hadn't been very strong yet, and too many titles might have hindered his development at the time.

But now things were different. His performance in the Sinnoh Tournament had been impressive, showcasing quasi-elite level strength. Additionally, he had gained significant recognition in the Hoenn region.

Announcing his new status as a Pokémon researcher would only bring benefits, boosting both his reputation and influence—something Professor Oak, with all his experience, understood well.

After wrapping up all the preparations related to the Fairy type, he had immediately proposed Cain's recognition as a Pokémon researcher.

In fact, given his discovery of the Fairy type, Cain could have been granted the title of Pokémon Professor. With the backing of Professor Oak, the Breeders' Guild, and Hoenn League President Juan, it was entirely feasible.

Though there were many Pokémon researchers, Pokémon Professors were rare, and earning that title required a unique specialty.

However, granting him that title now would be premature. He needed to first be acknowledged as a Pokémon researcher, and with time and more experience, he could eventually become a Pokémon Professor.

The current recognition was a first step toward his future development.

"I really appreciate it," said Cain.

"Oh, there's also something I wanted to mention," added Cain.

"Oh? What is it?" asked Professor Oak, curious.

Cain always managed to surprise him—sometimes even scare him—but the results were always worth it.

"Well, during the final round of the Sinnoh Tournament, I used a Politoed..."

Before he could finish, Professor Oak interrupted him excitedly. "Did you discover how Politoed evolves?"

"That makes sense! You had a Poliwhirl, and then Politoed appeared. So it really does evolve from Poliwhirl. How does the evolution work?"

Professor Oak's enthusiasm was obvious. When he spoke about Pokémon knowledge, he didn't sound like an old man at all.

"Yes, it evolves from Poliwhirl, and the method is the same as for Slowking: it requires a King's Rock," Cain explained.

"King's Rock! Of course, of course. That makes perfect sense. They both have the title 'king,' so evolving with that item is perfect," Professor Oak reasoned, diving into complex technical explanations that left Cain puzzled.

Professor Oak had been researching the King's Rock ever since its role in Slowking's evolution had been discovered.

"In that case, I'll revise the information and announce your discovery about Politoed's evolution along with that of Slowking. They're similar evolutions anyway. But be careful—your fame might grow even more," the professor joked.

Cain chuckled, showing the appropriate delight for someone in his position.

"Thanks for everything."

"No problem. I've got things to do. Come to Pallet Town when you get a chance. Bring your Pokémon—I'd like to study them. Also, I've got some good stuff for you," said the professor.

"Sure, I'll come visit soon."

With that, Professor Oak hung up.

The discovery of the Fairy type had already changed many things.

And now that the discoveries regarding Slowking and Politoed's evolutions would be made public, the timing felt perfect.

"Taking advantage of the impact from the Sinnoh Tournament, making this announcement will raise my reputation and pave the way for the future. Professor Oak really thought of everything," Cain reflected.

Just as he was about to sit down and relax a bit more, his communicator vibrated again.

This time, it wasn't a call—it was a message.

The device wasn't a normal communicator; it was the exclusive gear Cain had received when he became a research agent for the League.

Only high-ranking agents or the main headquarters could send him messages.

He opened the message, which read:

"Advanced Researcher Cain, You are assigned to an undercover research mission. Details:

Due to staff shortage and mission complexity, this task is not suitable for mid-level agents. The League suspects Team Rocket is developing something highly destructive.

They are currently organizing a trade conference. An advanced researcher is needed to infiltrate and gather intelligence. As you are originally from Kanto, you are the most suitable candidate for this task. Do you accept the mission?"

Below were two buttons: "Yes" and "No."

Cain was stunned.

They wanted him to become a double agent?

Could he refuse?

But... he was already a member of Team Rocket!

He had made good progress within the League, and now they were asking him to investigate his own organization.

The reasoning at the end of the message was also difficult to argue with.

He was from Kanto and knew the region well. It was better to send someone familiar with the area than an outsider. Moreover, the shortage of advanced researchers was likely due to many of them exploring new regions or researching the Fairy type in Kalos.

Normally, this mission would have been ideal for a local agent, but now it had fallen to him—a Hoenn agent.

The sender of the message was "Joy," likely the peculiar Joy who had reached the rank of Chief Researcher in the Hoenn region.

The fact that the mission had been assigned to him meant it had already been approved by the top brass.

Cain could only press the "Yes" button.

(End of Chapter)