Pokemon: The Scientist’s Rebirth

Ethan and Professor Oak stood amidst the vibrant pastures of the Pallet PokeRanch. The warm sun bathed the fields, adding a serene backdrop to their serious conversation.

Ethan broke the silence, his voice steady but carrying a note of hopefulness. "Then I guess I can ask for a few rewards," he began, a playful grin tugging at the corner of his lips.

Professor Oak's eyes twinkled, narrowing slightly as he crossed his arms, intrigued by Ethan's confident approach. "And what might those be?" Oak asked, his tone a blend of curiosity and cautious amusement.

Ethan glanced over to where Bulbs, lay sleeping under the shade of a large oak tree. The little Pokémon's peaceful demeanor brought a smile to Ethan's face as he gestured toward it. "First," he said, "I want Bulbs to be my starter. But I don't think that's something I should ask as a reward. A magnanimous and caring professor like you wouldn't separate us, given the bond we've already developed—would you?"

Oak chuckled softly, shaking his head. "Indeed, separating you two isn't something I had in mind. You can rest easy on that front. Anything else?"

Ethan's expression turned thoughtful. "Beyond that, what I need most right now is access to medicinal herbs to further enhance Bulbs's ability and, crucially, access to higher-tiered information."

Oak's demeanor shifted, his gaze growing serious. "Giving you medicinal herbs is not an issue. If Master Cedric can replicate your results across other Bulbasaurs, we'll likely acquire a significant stockpile of medicinal herbs. Allocating some to you wouldn't be a problem. However, increasing your clearance level is another matter entirely."

"Is it not possible?" Ethan inquired, his brow furrowing slightly.

Oak sighed, his gaze drifting across the sprawling PokéRanch. "Access to higher-tiered information is possible, but only under specific circumstances and on a temporary basis," he explained. "You'd need to submit detailed documentation that justifies your need for the data in question. This process is closely monitored by the Pokémon League to ensure fairness and prevent misuse."

"These privileges are reserved exclusively for researchers like you," he continued. "Higher-tiered data is often critical for advancing certain research projects, but such access is not granted to other professions, such as trainers or breeders."

Oak offered a reassuring nod. "Given your current research status, you can take advantage of this system to access any information that directly related to your ongoing research."

"Sounds... restrictive," Ethan admitted, a hint of frustration in his voice.

Oak's gaze softened as he offered an sheepish smile. "It's restrictive for a reason. Such information, while immensely valuable, can easily be misused if placed in the wrong hands."

Ethan's frown deepened. "Is there no way to increase my clearance permanently? I need more than just piecemeal access. A broader understanding is essential for me now as I am exploring other areas of research. What I need may not be directly useful for the research I am currently undertaking but will be required for projects I intent to take up later. Is there truly no other way?"

"Well," Oak began, adjusting his glasses, "As you know the professional hierarchy is structured into seven clearance tiers, ranging from S at the top to F at the entry level. Civilians, who aren't affiliated with any pokemon related profession, fall below F at Tier 0. Advancement within this hierarchy typically requires fulfilling specific qualifications, such as passing standardized tests like the Initial Companion Aptitude Test (ICAT), completing formal academic programs, and gaining practical experience in the field."

He paused, letting the information settle before continuing.

"However," Oak said with a faint smile, "there's an exception built into the system. If someone lacks the necessary qualifications to advance, they can bypass these requirements with recommendations from individuals holding S-level clearance. For instance, a single S-level recommendation can elevate a candidate to Tier F without meeting the usual prerequisites. Advancing to Tier E requires two such recommendations, while Tier D requires three, and so on."

Ethan's curiosity deepened, his brows furrowing. "But aren't there fewer than 30 people in all of Kanto with S-level clearance? Isn't that an almost impossible ask?"

Oak nodded thoughtfully. "You're correct. Only those at the absolute pinnacle of their professions hold S-level clearance—Pokémon Professors, Champions, Master Breeders, Master Healers, and the like. Their numbers are indeed limited, which makes obtaining their recommendations a significant challenge."

He paused, then continued with a knowing smile. "That's by design. The League implemented this system specifically to prevent abuse of power and nepotism. It ensures that even the most influential S levels by themselves cannot arbitrarily promote unqualified friends or family. The underlying principle is that if multiple S-level individuals collectively agree someone is fit for a rank, even without all the standard qualifications, it lends credibility to the decision."

Ethan nodded, his mind already working through how this applied to him.

"In your case," Oak continued, "I used my S-level privilege to recommend you for your current position as a Research Intern. Without that recommendation, your age and lack of an ICAT certification would have disqualified you. Now, if you aim to advance to Tier E and become a Research Assistant, you'll need the support of one additional S-level individual, in addition to my recommendation, to meet the requirement of two endorsements."

Ethan's expression grew serious as he processed the implications. "So, if I meet all the qualifications for a rank, I won't need any recommendations?"

"Exactly," Oak confirmed with a nod. "If you fulfill all the necessary criteria, recommendations aren't required. For example, research interns typically advance to Tier E Research Assistant after two to three years of hands-on training and by passing a focused examination. This exam ensures they are familiar with the research facilities and capable of assisting senior researchers. With your two years of experience and your demonstrated aptitude, I'm confident you'd excel in that exam. However," he added, his tone more measured, "you're still under 18 and haven't passed the ICAT. If you wish to rank up before meeting those requirements, recommendations will be essential. The League's regulations are quite strict on this."

Ethan had a thoughtful look crossing his face. "Doesn't Master Cedric also have S-level clearance? Do you think he'd support me?"

Oak stroked his beard thoughtfully. "Normally, given his adherence to rules and regulations, I would say no. He's not one to bend the rules lightly. However," he added, a small smile tugging at the corners of his mouth, "your recent discovery has placed him in an unusually good mood. His Breeding department, stands to benefit the most if your findings prove accurate and reproducible. I suggest approaching him once he's finished in his current research . If you catch him in the right moment, he might be inclined to support you. It's worth a try."

Ethan's eyes sparkled with determination. "What about becoming a Tier D- Junior Researcher, Professor? Are there additional requirements for that?"

"Ambitious as ever, I see!" Oak chuckled warmly. "Advancing to Junior Researcher is indeed more demanding. You'll need to have a research report published in the Indigo Journal of Pokémon Research with your name listed among the lead authors. This ensures you're capable of conducting independent research, not just assisting others. Your recent work on Bulbasaur's physiological adaptations is a strong contender for publication, provided it's verified by independent researchers. Once it's published, you'll have the qualifications for Tier D."

Oak's gaze softened as he added, "However, even with the necessary research credentials, you'll still require the support of three S-level individuals to bypass the ICAT and age restrictions for that tier if you want to advance to Junior Researcher before turning 18 and qualifying the ICAT.

Ethan fell into contemplative silence, weighing his options. 

"Professor," he finally said, breaking the silence, "you explained why you and Master Cedric got excited about my findings, but what about Nurse Joy? A slightly improved production process for potions hardly makes any difference to those who run Pokémon Centers. It adds little to their Pokémon treatment efficiency, right?"

"Ah, I almost forgot that detail," Oak replied. "You see, virtually all industries related to Pokémon healing, from potion production to advanced medical technology, are all under the influence of the Joy Clan. They hold a near-monopoly on the entire healing sector. So, yes, they control almost the entire production chain of potions, from cultivating medicinal herbs to bottling and distribution. Therefore, any improvement in the potion-making process, no matter how small, is of immense interest to them. They stand to gain the most significant financial benefit from such advancements."

"In fact, their influence in the healing world is so pervasive that practically nothing related to healing can be done without their involvement, whether through licensing agreements, collaborations, or direct ownership."

"Thankfully, Oak Coral and the Joy Clan have historically enjoyed excellent relations and strong collaborative partnerships. Almost all our Pokémon healing-related research and products were developed in close collaboration with them and licensed to companies managed by the Joy clan. This close relationship is why we have such an experienced and highly respected Nurse Joy here in Pallet Town. She is among the senior most member of her clan with Tier A clearance. Only select members of the Main Joy Clan and some very senior Nurse Joys directly assisting the League possess higher clearance and level than her."

Ethan listened intently, his mind now fully grasping the complex dynamics at play. The Joy Clan's influence was far more extensive than he had initially imagined. It was a powerful force that shaped the entire Pokémon world, and understanding its intricacies was essential for his own advancement. He now had a clearer picture of the path ahead, the challenges he faced, and the potential allies he needed to cultivate.

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Check out the Author's Thoughts section for the hierarchy of researchers.