Chapter 1: Prologue
In the distant past, humanity was dedicated to researching and understanding the various species of Pokémon inhabiting the wild. During this era, life unfolded peacefully as people and Pokémon coexisted with minimal interactions.
As time advanced, the accessibility of Pokémon knowledge and technological advancements led to the creation of a groundbreaking tool for capturing Pokémon known as the "Pokéball." This innovation prompted individuals to leverage Pokémon abilities for daily tasks like cooking and cleaning, gradually replacing traditional human utility needs.
However, human avarice proved insatiable. Recognizing the potential of Pokémon, people began exploiting them for personal gain, utilizing abilities such as "Mind Reader" from psychic-type Pokémon to cheat in gambling, or "Thief" from dark-type Pokémon for theft, you name it.
Eventually, those with similar exploitative intentions formed opposing groups, sparking conflicts that spread worldwide. As human technology improved, enabling the capture of more powerful Pokémon, wars erupted across the globe…
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The year is 2069, a quarter-century has passed since the conclusion of The Last Great War. The world is now under the governance of The Central Government. Despite the war's end, Pokémon remains a valuable utility asset for humanity; however, all Pokémon is now under government ownership. Even wild Pokémon are strictly protected and capturing them without the appropriate licenses is considered illegal.
The government justifies this control by citing concerns about public safety, the potential misuse of powerful Pokémon, and the need to maintain order. Trained officials, known as Pokémon Control Officers or PCO for short, patrol cities and towns to ensure that citizens comply with licensing regulations. Unlicensed Pokémon ownership is strictly prohibited and subject to severe penalties.
The government, headquartered in the center, has divided the world into Districts, each overseen by a representative known as the "District Heads." In many instances, these heads also assume responsibility as the "Headmaster" at the Pokémon Academies. These academies serve as institutions where individuals obtain licenses for careers requiring Pokémon usage. Everyday activities, such as flying or riding Pokémon all require licenses, akin to the process of obtaining driving licenses in the past.
It is now September, marking the conclusion of the summer break, and a new school year lies ahead…
Amidst the bustling subway station in District 11, approximately 2 miles from the Pokémon Academy, a disheveled teenage boy hurriedly dashed through the crowd, wearing a rumpled uniform and a worried expression.
"F*CK! IMA BE LATE ON MY FIRST DAY!"
With his long blonde hair tied up in a ponytail and his uniform in disarray, it was evident that the boy had overslept and was in a rush to leave his house.
"Maaaannnn, if only I could just have Starrie fly me to school right now!"
"You do know flying without license is illegal, right?"
A sarcastic comment interrupted his thought as a petite girl with glasses and braided black hair, riding atop her Pidgeott, flew by.
"Shut yo trap, Eliza. How about giving me a ride? I'll buy you lunch?"
The boy replied with a wink.
"No thanks. You better run fast though; the gate is going to close in like 5 minutes. I will see you in class later then, Bill, heh."
Eliza smirked before flying off.
"This bitch…I knew I should have gotten my flying license during summer. UGH!"
"You need a ride?"
An unfamiliar voice appeared behind Bill as he was cussing his luck.
"DING DONG"
Bill hurried to his seat as the bell rang, surprising Eliza, who was seated at the table in front.
"I didn't know you could run THAT fast. Have you tried getting back to track & field?"
Before Bill could even reply to her snarky remark, a tall muscular man who looked to be in his late 20s walked in through the door.
"QUIET DOWN! Bill, I see that you barely made it. Congratulation on escaping punishments."
With a stern voice reminiscent of an army personnel, the man addressed the exhausted Bill, who was doing his best to avoid eye contact at all costs.
"It's just my luck that I have to be stuck with this demon as my homeroom teacher this year huh?"
Bill mumbled under his breath, hoping to go unnoticed.
"Same"
Eliza whispered.
"No one asked"
Bill annoyingly replied to her comment.
"Anyway, for those who don't know me yet, I am Mark Ironclaw. I will be class 9-D's homeroom teacher this year. I hope you guys enjoyed your summer break because it will be about to get real busy for you 9th year students."
As Mark mentioned, the 9th year marks the biggest transition for all students. At the Pokémon Academy, one's academic journey spans from 1st to 12th grade, fostering a sense of familiarity among students from the outset of each new year. However, the arrival of transferred students from other Districts is not uncommon.
The Academy is structured into three segments: 1st-4th, 5th-8th, and 9th-12th grades. Every four years, students are assigned a new Pokémon based on their personalities and attributes, continually monitored by the Academy. The initial four years focus on fundamental studies such as writing, reading, and basic Pokémon knowledge. In the subsequent four years, students learn tasks that necessitate teamwork with their Pokémon, including the acquisition of flying or riding licenses. The final four years introduce real-life combat and Pokémon capture training. This period is crucial for students to determine their post-Academy path, whether to join the workforce or pursue further careers, potentially securing positions in the government.
"Furthermore, commencing today, we welcome a new addition to our class—a student who recently transferred here from District 1."
Mark gestured toward the entrance, signaling the newcomer to join the class. Stepping in was a tall and athletic-looking young man with sleek, jet-black hair. His uniform was impeccably worn, presenting a sharp contrast to Bill's more disheveled appearance.
"Let's have you introduce yourself"
Mark directed the newcomer.
"Good morning, my name is Jan Siyah, it's a pleasure to meet all of you"
Jan spoke in a soft and gentle tone. Despite his calm and soothing voice, his demeanor appeared almost expressionless and notably devoid of nervousness—quite distinct from the usual demeanor of transfer students.
"Wait, Siyah? As in the renowned veteran researcher Siyah?"
A wave of astonishment swept through the room.
"Oh hey, it's YOU!"
Bill exclaimed, a look of surprise evident on his face.