Chapter 10: Naranja Academy
The Grass Cat Pokémon strolled confidently through the entrance hall of Naranja Academy, her small paws padding softly against the polished floor. Her tail swayed rhythmically behind her as she glanced around with curious, bright eyes, taking in the grandeur of the hall's architecture.
The entrance hall of Naranja boasted a grandeur befitting its prestigious reputation, a mosaic of rich browns and deep blues, gleamed under the soft glow of ornate chandeliers hanging from the high ceiling. Tall bookcases lined the walls, filled with leather-bound tomes and scholarly volumes, lending an air of wisdom and knowledge to the place
Students bustled about, their colorful uniforms adding splashes of vibrancy to the elegant surroundings. Some clustered in small groups, engaged in animated conversations, while others hurried along the corridors, their footsteps echoing against the polished floors.
Trailing behind Sprigatito, Juliana and Nemona were immersed in the brilliance of their surroundings. Juliana, in particular, was struck with awe at the magnificent sight before her.
"¡Guau! I got to admit, this place looks even better than I imagined!" Juliana exclaimed, her eyes wide with wonder as she took in the look of the place. As they walked, Nemona glanced at Juliana with a knowing smile.
The entrance hall fell silent as every student turned their attention to the champion-ranked class president, their previous chatter fading into the background. Each one tried to appear busy or engaged in their studies, but the subtle glances they exchanged spoke volumes about their recognition of Nemona's presence.
Sprigatito continued to trot forward, her attention caught by something ahead. However, she suddenly collided with the leg of someone standing in her path. Looking up, the grass type found herself face to face with Clavell, the stern but fair director of the school.
"Oh, my apologies," Clavell murmured, his tone softening as he recognized the trio standing before him— Nemona, Juliana, and Sprigatito.
"Hi, Mr. Clavell," Juliana greeted with a smile.
Clavell's voice resonated with warmth as he addressed Juliana, his demeanor exuding a blend of professionalism and genuine interest. "I'm quite happy to see you finally here, Ms. Juliana. Perhaps it's too early to ask this question, but I am curious. How do you feel about Naranja Academy so far?"
Juliana's smile widened. "I couldn't be more thrilled, Mr. Clavell. This place looks amazing."
"And I trust Ms. Nemona has been a reliable guide for you thus far," he remarked, shifting his gaze from Juliana to Nemona, his eyes warm and welcoming.
"Hey, you know me, Mr. Clavell," Nemona boasted, a smirk playing on her lips. Then, a sudden realization dawned on her, prompting her to reach into her back pocket. With a sly grin, she revealed the director's car keys she had "found" earlier. "You dropped this," she said, her tone laced with a hint of amusement. "I was looking all over for you."
Juliana had to stifle a laugh, knowing too well the real story behind Clavell's lost keys. She exchanged a knowing glance with Nemona, both with shared merriment.
"Oh, goodness," Clavell gasped as he retrieved his keys from Nemona. "I thank you, Ms. Nemona. I can't believe I'd do such a thing."
"I found it on the floor beside your coche, lucky for you that I found it before any troublesome people could." Nemona explained as she spun her tale, before a spark of recollection lit up her eyes. "Oh yeah, and speaking of trouble, we ran into some Team Star goons on our way here... unfortunately."
The director's expression went from calm to worried as he processed Nemona's words, a gasp escaping his lips. "Team Star? You encountered them— both of you! And what became of them?" His voice betrayed a hint of concern, the name alone enough to send a shiver down his spine.
"They were bothering that Penny girl, but Juliana here came in and saved the day!" Nemona gestured animatedly, her hand patting the younger Trainer on the back with pride. "They ran off after she defeated them, I didn't quite catch where to, though. But man, you should've seen Juliana, she was something else. Defeated two Pokémon at once with just Sprigatito, even."
"Tito, Ti!" Sprigatito's purrs rang out in agreement, her tail swishing with satisfaction at the praise from Nemona.
Clavell's gaze shifted to Juliana, his expression a mix of surprise and concern. "Is that right? You confronted Team Star?"
Juliana nonchalantly shrugged, attempting to downplay her achievement. "Well, yeah... it was nothing, really," she replied, her voice tinged with humility.
The director nodded thoughtfully; his concern evident in his furrowed brow. "I can respect your intentions in assisting a fellow student in need, but really, you needn't trouble yourself with Team Star," he said, his gaze drifting from Juliana to Nemona. "And the same goes for you, Ms. Nemona."
Nemona nodded, feigning compliance with the director's request. "Sí señior," she replied, though inwardly she had no intention of heeding his warning. "Anyways, it's getting late, isn't it? Classes should be almost finished, now. What do you think, Mr. Clavell?"
"I anticipated this might happen," Clavell remarked. "Very well then. Ms. Nemona, please guide Ms. Juliana to her dormitory. Her official induction will begin tomorrow. And as I promised, you will be excused from any missed classes today."
"Awesome, thanks." Nemona replied, her tone enthusiastic as she gestured for Juliana to follow. "Let's head to your room then!"
"Right!" Juliana said, eager to see it for itself. She turned towards Mr. Clavell with a smile. "Thank you again for all this. I can tell I'm in for a really good time here." As she prepared to join Nemona alongside her first partner Pokémon, Mr. Clavell's hand gently rested on her shoulder, halting her movements.
"Ms. Juliana, I should let you know, Pokémon aren't allowed outside of their Poké Balls unless instructed otherwise." Clavell lectured. Juliana paused, meeting Mr. Clavell's gaze with a mixture of surprise and understanding. Her eyes shifted to Sprigatito, who looked back at her.
"Haha, sorry about that," Juliana chuckled softly, feeling a tad sheepish. She reached for Sprigatito's Poké Ball, holding it up in front of the grass type. With a flash of light, Sprigatito returned to the confines of the Poké Ball, and Juliana swiftly tucked it away. Then, falling into step behind Nemona, she continued on their way.
The dormitory building stood as a distinguished structure adjacent to the main academic buildings of Naranja Academy. Its architectural design blended modern functionality with classical elegance, boasting tall columns and intricate facades that exuded a sense of grandeur.
As Juliana and Nemona approached, they were greeted by the sight of ivy-colored walls and neatly trimmed lawns surrounding the building, creating a serene atmosphere. Upon entering the dormitory, they were enveloped by a warm and inviting ambience. The spacious foyer welcomed them with polished marble floors and soft lighting, casting a gentle glow over the area. Plush sofas and armchairs lined the walls, providing comfortable seating for students to relax and socialize.
The hallway stretched out before them, adorned with framed artwork of certain notable Pokémon and potted plants, adding touches of color and personality to the place. Along the corridor, doors led to individual dorm rooms, each marked with a student's nameplate and decorated according to their unique tastes and preferences.
As they made their way down the hallway, Juliana and Nemona passed by communal areas like the study lounge equipped with tables and chairs, where students could gather to work on assignments or collaborative projects. Nearby, a recreation room offered entertainment options such as pool tables, gaming consoles, and a cozy seating area for movie nights.
After what felt like eons, the two girls finally arrived at their destination: Juliana's dorm room. The hallway seemed to stretch endlessly, each turn revealing yet another corridor identical to the last. But finally, they reached the door marked with Juliana's nameplate. With a sigh of relief, Juliana pushed open the door, eager to see her new living quarters.
As they stepped into the room, darkness enveloped them, the space shrouded in shadows. Juliana hesitated, her eyes straining to discern any details in the dimness. Then, with a soft click, Nemona located the light switch and flipped it on.
Suddenly the room was bathed in warm light, revealing its contents in vivid detail:
The girl's room, though small, exuded coziness and charm. The walls were painted a cheerful shade of orange, filling the space with warmth. A neatly made bed sat against the wall, adorned with colorful pillows and a soft blanket. In one corner, a compact kitchenette offered the essentials for cooking simple meals, complete with a stove and microwave. Sunlight streamed in through a window near the bed, casting a warm glow over the room and adding to its inviting atmosphere. Despite its modest size, it felt like a nice little sanctuary, a perfect retreat after a busy day at the academy.
"¡Dios mío!" Juliana gasped in awe, her breath catching in her throat as she took in the sight before her.
"Nemona's eyebrows shot up in surprise. "Wait, this is it?" she exclaimed leaning against the wall with her arms folded. "It's so tiny! Sorry Juliana, but this is definitely not one of the better dorms rooms I've seen in this school. They really gave you the short end of the stick."
"Are you crazy? This place is amazing!" Juliana squealed in girlish excitement, her eyes sparkling with joy as she bounced on her toes, unable to contain her delight. She twirled around the room, taking in every detail with wide-eyed wonder, her heart brimming with excitement at the thought of calling the cozy space her own.
Nemona's lips curved into an amused smile, her eyes crinkling at the corners as she observed Juliana's infectious excitement. "Wait, you really like this place!?" Nemona exclaimed in genuine surprise, momentarily taken aback by Juliana's enthusiastic response. Then, a flicker of recollection crossed her features, and she snickered softly. "Oh yeah... I just remembered what your casa looked like," she remarked with a teasing grin. "I guess this place wouldn't be so bad then..."
Juliana paused, her gaze meeting Nemona's with a warmth that seemed to radiate from within. "I love this place. I don't need it to be three stories tall or something. All I want it something that feels like home."
Nemona's smile widened into a grin of genuine happiness. She nodded in satisfaction before turning around facing the door. "Well I'm glad you like it, Juliana." She remarked, her voice filled with a hint of relief. "The day's far from over. You should go and try to have some fun. Join a club or something. I'll be seeing you tomorrow. I saw on your schedule earlier we have the same homeroom." With a final nod, she stepped into the hallway, leaving Juliana to bask in the newfound comfort of her dorm room.
Leaning her back to Juliana's door, Nemona closed her eyes and let out a contented sigh. A smile played on her lips as she reflected on Juliana's presence. There was an inexplicable energy about Juliana, a spark that ignited Nemona's own excitement. It was as if Juliana brought a breath of fresh air to Nemona's world, and for that, she felt grateful.
As Nemona opened her eyes, she sensed an unfamiliar gaze fixed upon her. On the opposite side of the corridor shood a short figure, his expression one of confusion as he observed the student council president with a blank stare.
Nemona's cheeks flushed with frustration, her voice trembling as she blurted out, "¿Qué diablos estás mirando, estúpido? ¡Lárgate de aquí!" Her words came out sharper than intended sending the student scurrying away in alarm.
On the other side of the door, Juliana sighed with relief as she pushed herself back, collapsing onto her bed. The springs creaked in protest beneath her weight. She reached up to loosen her tie, the fabric slipping through her fingers before she tossed it carelessly onto the floor. With a deft kick, she freed her feet from her shoes, letting them fall beside her in a soft thud against the floorboards.
Her bed enveloped her in a cocoon of comfort, its soft embrace tempting her to surrender to sleep. But the day was far from over, and there was still much to do. From her back pocket, her Rotom Phone levitated before her, its screen illuminating her face with a faint blue glow.
Juliana tapped on her Rotom Phone, bringing her mother's contact. As the phone rang, she shifted on her bed, feeling the softness of the mattress beneath her.
"Hi, mi hija! So, you've made it to school!?" answered her mom in a warm tone. Juliana could hear the rhythmic thud of her mother chopping vegetables over the phone.
"Sí mamá." Juliana replied, perching herself upright on the bed. "Mr. Clavell drove me there along with the student council of the academy."
"Oh right, her name was Nemona, yeah?" Mom said, surprising Juliana until she remembered what Nemona had told her earlier back when they were trying to catch the Pawmi. "Mr. Clavell promised me she'd find you and mentor you on how to catch a Pokémon. Make sure you didn't get into any trouble. Was she a good mentor?"
Juliana hesitated, her thoughts flickering back to the initial hostility between her and Nemona. "Well, I won't lie to you, we didn't exactly see eye to eye at first; she's got this tough exterior, but underneath it, she's actually really cool. And um... I think we're good friends now."
"Ya veo. Well, did you two manage to stay out of trouble?" Mom inquired with a hint of concern in her voice. Hearing this, Juliana's thoughts drifted back to the perilous moments in the cave, where she faced the threat of wild Pokémon and had far too many close calls than she would've liked.
"Trouble? No— nothing like that." Juliana lied, picturing her mom on the other end of the line. She grappled with the discomfort of lying, especially towards her mother. However, she knew what telling her mom the truth would do. There was no need to cause any unnecessary worry.
"That's what I like to hear, cariño. How's the school treating you so far?" Mom asked. And unlike the last question, this one didn't catch Juliana off guard; in fact, it was the one she was ready to answer.
"It's absolutely incredible, mamá! I mean, the school's so big, it looks like a kingdom!" Juliana explained with boundless enthusiasm. "You have to see it for yourself one day!"
"I'm happy to hear that, hija." Mom's voice softened. "Well, I think you should go and explore the campus, get a feel for everything. But Juliana, just be cautious around boys, alright? Focus on your studies and making friends. Don't let any distractions get in the way of your goals."
Juliana's laughter filled the room. "No te preocupes, mamá. I'm way ahead of you there. Alright, I'll go and check out the school some more. I'll call you later."
"Okay, mi hija. Te amo. Make sure to call me every day, okay?"
"I will mamá. Yo también te amo, bye bye." Juliana said, bidding farewell as the screen on her phone faded to black leaving her in the quiet solitude of her dorm room. She wasn't alone for too long however, as she recalled she had some friends waiting for her in their Poké Balls.
Juliana delicately slid her hand into her pocket, fingertips grazing against the smooth surface of Sprigatito's Poké Ball. With a swift motion, she withdrew it, holding it aloft as she summoned her faithful first partner Pokémon before her.
Sprigatito appeared before her Trainer; her form shimmering into existence with a soft glow. With a graceful leap, she landed in Juliana's lap, eliciting a delighted giggle from the girl. Juliana tenderly stroked Sprigatito's fur, her touch as gentle and affectionate as always.
Juliana's smile widened into a bright grin as she rose from her bed, cradling her grass type in her arms. She made her way to the open window, the crisp breeze of Naranja Academy courtyard unfolded, with students and Pokémon weaving through the vibrant landscape. Juliana gazed out, her heart swelling with anticipation and excitement for the adventures that were awaiting her in this new chapter of her life.
"Look at that, Sprigatito." Juliana said, her voice carrying a tone of excitement and determination as she addressed her Pokémon. "There's a whole lot of students that attend this school, and each have their own stories and adventures waiting to unfold, same as us. We're part of something bigger now, and I have a feeling it's going to be quite the journey. Are you ready for it?"
"Spri, Sprii!" Sprigatito responded with an energetic cry, her eyes gleaming with enthusiasm as she bounced in her Trainer's arms, just as ready for whatever adventures awaited them as Juliana.
While Juliana continued to softly stroke Sprigatito's fur, a sudden realization struck her. With a gentle motion, she withdrew her hand from her pocket, retrieving another Poké Ball, the one that belonged to the mysterious Scarlet Pokémon, Koraidon.
As she gazed at the Poké Ball in her palm, she noticed her reflection shimmering on its surface, her features illuminated by the soft glow emanating from within.
As twilight painted the sky in soft pastels, Juliana pondered the events of her inaugural day at Naranja Academy. The rush of new faces, bustling corridors, and unexpected encounters had kept her on her toes. Now, with the day drawing to a close, she anticipated the fresh challenges and discoveries that awaited her on her first full day of school.
With the dawn of a new day, Juliana found herself stepping into the rhythm of Naranja Academy. The second day beckoned, promising a deeper immersion into the routines and nuisances of school life.
The girl stood outside the classroom door, her heart beating a little faster than usual. She glanced at the clock on the wall, realizing she was already a few minutes late. Taking a deep breath, she smoothed out her uniform and adjusted the bag on her shoulder.
As she reached for the door handle, a sudden wave of nervousness washed over her. What if everyone was already seated and staring at her as she entered? What if the teacher scolded her for being late on her first day? These thoughts raced through her mind, causing her hand to hesitate for a moment.
Finally, with a determined exhale, Juliana pushed open the door and stepped into the classroom. The room was filled with the soft mutter of students chatting and the shuffle of papers being organized. All eyes turned towards her as she entered, confirming her fears.
Her eyes scanned the room, searching for any familiar faces amidst the sea of students. Near the front of the class, she spotted Nemona, who was sitting at a desk, her expression brightening as she caught sight of Juliana. A warm smile adorned Nemona's face as she gestured for Juliana to join her.
Eager to settle into her new surroundings, Juliana made her way towards the empty seat behind Nemona, her footsteps echoing softly in the spacious classroom. Just as she was about to take her seat, a commanding voice interrupted her movement.
"Oh, so you think you can walk in late on your first day without me saying anything about it, no ma'am," the teacher announced firmly, drawing Juliana's attention to the front of the class.
Turning to face the source of the voice, Juliana found herself met with the sight of their teacher— a man with striking purple hair and gray eyes, sporting black hexagon-shaped glasses. His attire, a white lab coat adorned with purple accents, exuded an air of authority, despite the unconventional choice of purple sweatpants and white and purple toeless sandals.
With hesitant steps, Juliana made her way to the front of the class, her heart pounding in her chest as she faced the imposing figure of their teacher. She offered a sheepish smile as she approached, her voice tinged with apology.
"Um... hi," she began, her words slightly faltering under the weight of her nerves. "I'm sorry for being late. I was having trouble navigating through the school since it's so big— not that that's an excuse." Juliana's cheeks flushed with embarrassment as she spoke, acutely aware of the expectant gaze of her classmates upon her. "I-it won't happen again," she added quickly.
The teacher's lips curled into a faint smile, his tone lightening. "Don't worry, I was only kidding with you," he reassured Juliana, his voice warm with a hint of humor. With a slight rustle of papers, he retrieved the attendance sheet from his desk, his eyes scanning the list of names intently.
"Let's see," he murmured, his finger trailing down the page until it came to a halt. "You're the new student... uh, Juliana... Quintan-eye-ah?" His gaze lifted from the sheet to settle on the new student, awaiting her confirmation.
Juliana straightened her posture. "It's actually Quintanilla," she corrected, her voice steady despite her nerves. "And you're Mr. Jacq, right?"
"Yup, don't sweat it. You're in the right class," He reassured Juliana before turning his attention to his students. "Would you like to introduce yourself to the class?" he asked, gesturing towards the expectant students.
Juliana scanned the room once more, feeling the weight of all eyes on her. The students varied in appearance and demeanor. Some looked curious, others disinterested, but all seemed to exude an aura of anticipation. Juliana's nerves pulsed through her as she prepared to speak, but just as doubt crept in, she caught Nemona's confident nod from the front row, a silent reassurance that buoyed her spirit. With a deep breath, Juliana squared her shoulders, ready to address the class.
"¡Hola, soy Juliana!" Juliana cried out, her voice eager but tinged with qualm. "I'm going to be joining your guy homeroom, so I hope we can all be friends!"
As her words hung in the air, Juliana's stomach twisted with self-doubt. Did she sound too eager? Too desperate" The silence that followed seemed to amplify her unease, making her wish she could take back her words. Or at least redo them. The silence that followed only intensified her worry, amplifying the sound of her own heartbeat as she awaited the class's response.
Mr. Jacq swept his eyes across the room, his attention lingering on each student in turn. The morning's silence seemed to settle heavily over the class, casting a subdued atmosphere. "Alright, anyone have any questions for Juliana here?" he prompted, breaking the quiet with a gentle yet expectant tone.
After a brief pause, a student seated at the back of the classroom tentatively raised his hand. Jacq nodded in acknowledgment before gesturing for the student to speak. "Do you have any Pokémon?" the student inquired, his voice carrying across the room once Jacq had granted him the floor.
Juliana's smile widened at the question, one she was more than happy to answer. "Absolutely, right now I have two as a matter of fact. The first is my first partner Pokémon, Sprigatito, who Mr. Clavell had given me yesterday," she explained, her words drawing surprised glances from her classmates.
Whispers rippled through the classroom, punctuated by gasps of surprise from some students. A few exchanged glances, their expressions a mix of curiosity and astonishment at Juliana's revelation.
Jacq's eyes widened in genuine surprise, his eyebrows shooting up as he processed Juliana's words. "Wow, a first partner Pokémon. You're a lucky little lady, Juliana," he remarked, his tone tinged with admiration. "Not too many students are fortunate enough to get one of those. And what other Pokémon did you say you had?"
"Oh, it's a Koraid—" Juliana began, but a quick glance from Nemona halted her mid-sentence. Suddenly, the realization hit her like a lightning bolt. The mysterious Scarlet Pokémon wasn't even in the Pokédex. Until she figured out what it was, it was best to not go flexing about it. With a slight stumble in her words, she corrected herself, trying to sound convincing. "Uh, it's a Pika... I mean, uh, Pikaranitar... rona," she finally managed to say, her voice faltering with uncertainty.
Confusion rippled through the classroom, evident in the furrowed brows and exchanged glances among the students. Juliana felt a flush of embarrassment rise to her cheeks as she let out an exasperated sigh and buried her face in her palm. That's the best name I could come up with...! She lamented internally, feeling the weight of her blunder.
"Huh... Pikaranitarona?" Jacq echoed, his confusion mirroring that of the entire class. "Did I get that right?"
"Yeah, Pikaranitarona," Juliana affirmed, trying to project confidence as she crossed her arms. "It's uh... Unovan," she added, her voice trailing off a bit uncertainly. The awkward silence that followed was broken only by stifled snickers and puzzled glances exchanged among the students.
"Alright, well, that certainly sounds interesting," Jacq continued, adjusting his glasses before clearing his throat. "Well, in any case, are there any more questions for Juliana?" he prompted, scanning the class with a discerning gaze, hoping to spark some more engagement.
With a sudden burst of determination, Nemona rose from her seat, her posture demanding the attention of the entire class. "I have one!" She declared, her voice resonating with authority. "Juliana, you went through the trouble of enrolling in this school, so spill. What do you want to get out of your time here? You must have a dream you want to achieve, right?" Her gaze was intense, probing Juliana for her aspirations with unwavering curiosity.
Juliana's gaze wandered for a moment, lost in contemplation as she searched for the right words. Nemona's question echoed in her mind, urging her to articulate her deepest aspirations. Yet, Juliana felt a sense of vulnerability, unsure of how her answer would be received by her peers, particularly for someone as battle-loving as Nemona. The weight of expectation pressed down on her, but Juliana remained determined to speak from the heart. "My dream... honestly, I'm still figuring that part out. I guess... I want to discover my own path, to find where I truly belong in this world." As the words left her lips, Juliana couldn't help but wonder if they were enough to satisfy Nemona's question.
The champion ranked Trainer settled back into her seat. Her gaze, as sharp ever, seemed to pierce through the air, yet softened by a faint smile that played on her lips. With a simple nod of her head, she acknowledged Juliana's response, her demeanor radiating an air of understanding and quiet encouragement.
With a warm smile, Jacq addressed Juliana, "Okay then, I'd say we've all got a pretty good grasp of who you are now, Juliana." His eyes twinkled with a hint of kindness as he gestured towards an empty seat. "Your spot is in the second row up front, make yourself comfortable."
Juliana, relieved to be spared from further questioning, nodded gratefully and made her way to her designated seat, eager to finally settle into the rhythm of her surroundings.
Sitting beside Juliana was a girl with a warm, mocha-colored complexion, her sleek, straightened black hair cascading down her shoulders. Her eyes sparkled with curiosity as she leaned to whisper to Juliana. "Hey, aren't youthat girl who battled Team Star?" Her voice held a mix of admiration and intrigue, drawing Juliana's attention to her inquisitive gaze.
Juliana's smile widened, reflecting a mix of pride and relief. "Yeah, that was me," she confirmed, her voice carrying a hint of satisfaction at the recognition.
The girl smiled, her eyes alight with curiosity. "That was really cool of you. Team Star are a bunch of bozos, don't get me wrong, but I don't ever see any students trying to stand up to them What made you do it?"
"It was nothing. It was just... it was the right thing. If I didn't, who else would?" Juliana replied earnestly, her voice reflecting her pure-hearted nature. As the conversation unfolded, Nemona, seated just ahead, listened intently, a proud smile spreading across her face as she admired the girl behind her.
The clock struck 1 pm, marking the start of lunchtime at Naranja Academy. With a swift transition, the bustling halls emptied as students flooded into the cafeteria, eager to grab a bite to eat and socialize. The scene shifted to the vibrant cafeteria, filled with long rows of tables and chairs. The aroma of various cuisines wafted through the air, enticing hungry students. Colorful banters adorned the walls, depicting scenes of Pokémon battles and lush landscapes.
The chatter of students echoed off the walls as they caught up with friends and discussed the day's events. It was a lively atmosphere, buzzing with energy and excitement.
Juliana balanced her tray as she navigated through the bustling cafeteria, selecting a seat near a window with a view of the courtyard. On her tray, she had a colorful assortment of school food. A vegetable stir-fry, a fresh salad with leafy greens and colorful veggies, a side of roasted potatoes, and a glass of fruit juice. As she settled into her seat, she reflected on her last class, Battle Studies. In that class, they delved into the intricacies of Pokémon battles, learning about strategies, type advantages, and battle techniques.
The girl glanced out the window, her gaze drawn to the bustling courtyard. The courtyard was a lively hub of activity, with students and Pokémon mingling together. Some students were engaged in friendly battles, their Pokémon darting and dodging amidst cheers and laughter. Others sat in groups, chatting animatedly or studying together under the shade of towering trees.
In the distance, Juliana could see the school's Pokémon training grounds, where Trainers honed their skills under the watchful eye of seasoned instructors. The courtyard was bathed in warm sunlight, casting a golden glow over the vibrant scene below. It was a sight that filled Juliana with excitement and anticipation for the adventures that lay ahead of her.
As Juliana savored the view outside, she delicately inserted a straw into her fruit juice, the cool condensation of the glass refreshing against her fingertips.
Just as she was about to take a sip, a voice broke through her thoughts, calling her name from the side. Startled, she turned her gaze to the right, where she saw the familiar figure of the boy she had encountered earlier, the one who had entrusted her with Koraidon.
"Oh hey, so we meet again." The boy greeted warmly, taking a seat directly in front of Juliana.
Juliana's surprise was evident as she exclaimed, "Arwin!? I didn't think you'd arrive here so soon!" She said causing him to tense up.
Arven's frustration escalated visibly, his brows furrowing as he aggressively corrected Juliana, "Arwin!? NO! It's Arven! A-R-V-E-N, ARVEN!" His voice rose slightly with each letter of his name, emphasizing his annoyance.
"R-right, lo siento, Arven." She shifted uneasily in her seat, her curiosity evident. "How'd you get here so fast anyway? Not that I'm complaining of course."
Arven leaned closer, his voice dropping to a whisper as he glanced around cautiously. "I took a flying taxi, but man, those things cost an arm and a leg," he admitted, patting his pockets. "Anyway, I hurried over here because there was something important I needed to tell you. Something I couldn't say with that annoying student council chick around."
Juliana's face lit up with excitement. "Oh, I know!" she exclaimed, her arms waving in the air. "You're here to tell me all about Koraidon, aren't you?" Her enthusiasm caught Arven off guard, his eyes widening in surprise and his expression turning slightly panicked. He shifted in his seat, fumbling with his words.
Arven's voice cracked with tension as he leaned even more forward, a bead of sweat trickling down his temple. "N-no, it has nothing to do with that brute!" he stammered, his words rushing out in a nervous jumble. "H-honestly, I'm sick and tired of thinking about that thing, I gave Koraidon to you so I'd have to do less of that!"
Juliana looked at Arven with eager anticipation, her curiosity evident in her voice. "Okay, what did you want to tell me then?" she asked.
Arven's smile brightened, a hint of pride dancing in his eyes. "Well, this might come off as a surprise, but fact is, I'm all about the picnic life," he confessed with a stern tone. "The great outdoors, the perfectly prepared sandwiches, all of it. Not half bad at cooking either, I can tell you."
"Um, okay," Juliana said, not really sure where he was getting at.
With a cautious look around, Arven carefully retrieved a worn, dusty book from his bag, cradling it in his hands as if it were a rare treasure. He gave it a gentle blow, causing a small cloud of dust to billow from its weathered pages. "See this?" he said, voice tinged with excitement and a hint of reverence. "I've been diving into this old tome lately, exploring recipes that can boost a Pokémon's health. Real healing grub, you know?" He gestured to the book's pages, now revealed beneath the veil of dust. "I stumbled upon a section about these Herba Mystica thingamajigs... Basically, they're some kind of special herbs that can restore a Pokémon to perfect health, they're far better than any Pokémon Center you can imagine."
"I've never heard of that," Juliana mused, her brow furrowing slightly as she tried to grasp the concept. She leaned forward, peering at the faded text and intricate diagrams within the pages of the ancient book.
Arven noticed the girl trying to get a peep from the open page, causing him to shut the book, his tone growing serious. "Look," he began, his gaze fixed on her, "It says that the Herba Mystica is apparently guarded by this lot of Pokémon known as Titans... powerful beings that even I, as strong as I am, could never hope to fend off alone. Not without a strong partner, at least. How would you like to help me retrieve the Herba Mystica, there's 5 in all, meaning 5 total Titan Pokémon to face."
Juliana paused, mulling over Arven's request before voicing her thoughts. "Not that I'm saying no," she began cautiously, "But I'm curious. Why are you asking me instead of Nemona? I mean, you must know she's ten times the Trainer I am." As she spoke, her gaze flickered between Arven and the dusty book in his hands, her curiosity evident in her furrowed brow and slightly tilted head.
Arven's expression twisted into a look of disgust, his features contorting as if he'd just tasted something foul. "Pfft, very funny— Nemona?" he scoffed incredulously. "As if I'd ask her. I can't stand her!" As the boy launched into his disdainful tirade against the class president, Juliana noticed someone walking directly behind them, close enough to overhear the boy's words. Arven remained oblivious to the presence, absorbed in his own rant, while Juliana's eyes briefly flickered towards the oncoming figure before returning to Arven.
"Um, Arven... it's..." Juliana's voice trailed off as she gestured discreetly behind Arven, hoping he'd catch on, but he remained fixated on his monologue, oblivious to her attempt to draw his attention.
"I mean seriously, what is with that girl anyways? She's on the student council, yet she's so arrogant and self-absorbed, not to mention a total control freak! She thinks she's so much better than everyone else! What a narcissist!" As he continued ranting, he casually reached forward, snagging one of Juliana's roasted potatoes that had been left untouched. "You don't mind if I have one of these, do you?" he asked nonchalantly, still oblivious to the figure that had silently approached behind him.
"Arven, I really recommend you stop talking." Juliana urged, her unease mounting with each word.
The boy's words surged with determination, punctuated by a defiant bite of a potato. "Why? I'm not like those scaredy cat students who are afraid of her just cause she's in the champion rank or whatever! One day, mark my words, I'll tell her exactly what I think of her." He declared; his words muffled by a mouthful of food. "It seemed like Nemona really liked you— a shame by the way. You'll just have to learn firsthand what I'm telling you about. But don't worry, I've made up my mind, I'll battle her soon enough, beat her, and teach her a thing or two about humility!"
His enthusiasm waned as he noticed Juliana's lack of engagement. She had turned away, her hand covering her face in embarrassment. A shiver ran down Arven's spine as he sensed a potent glare behind him, causing his bravado to wither. "...She's right behind me, isn't she?" he muttered, just as a hand lightly settled on his shoulder.
In a moment of realization, Arven turned to face Nemona, whose mere presence had sent him reeling with fear after his bold remarks. She leaned in close, her voice low and threatening as she whispered into his ear, "So, you're gonna battle me and teach me about humility, huh? Como desees campadre, let's take this outside to the courtyard."
Arven's voice wavered like a leaf in the wind as he attempted to smooth over his blunder. "N-Nemona!?" he squeaked, his voice cracking like a teenager's voice in puberty. "Heheh, I was just uh... joking, you know, messing around! Isn't that right, Juliana?" He shot Juliana a desperate look, as if hoping she'd jump in and save him. "We were just goofing off, yeah!? I didn't mean anything by it. I-I meant it in the best way!"
Juliana's gaze bore into Nemona's silently imploring her to relent as she observed her pulling Arven to the courtyard with an arm casually draped around his neck. "He's sorry, Nemona, just let him be."
Nemona glanced back at Juliana from the doorway, a mischievous grin playing on her lips as she and Arven were halfway out. "Sorry, can't do that, cause I'm a total control freak, remember," she quipped sarcastically. "Oh, before I forget, if I didn't say it before, I'm glad we've got the same homeroom. Promise me you'll show me that Pikaranitarona of yours sometime, sí?" Her smirk widened slightly before disappearing from view, leaving Juliana alone.
As the echoes of Arven's cries reverberated outside, Juliana released a heavy sigh, her expression a mix of resignation and amusement. "¡Vaya por Dios!" She said aloud. "Well, I did warn him..." Just then, her Rotom Phone chimed, interrupting the moment with an insistent ringing.
Her Rotom Phone hovered to eye level, displaying an unexpected caller ID: "Unknown caller." Juliana's curiosity was piqued as she contemplated whether to answer the call or not.
Juliana hesitated for a moment, her finger hovering over the screen. With a decisive sigh, she powered off her phone, the abrupt silence calming her nerves as she chose to ignore the call. She had recalled her mother's advice about ignoring calls from phone numbers she didn't recognize, let alone any unknown caller IDs.
As the cafeteria bustled around her, Juliana sat in a solitary moment, the chatter fading into the background. Her gaze lingered on her virtually untouched plate; it was cold.
Gotta say, I definitely had fun writing this chapter. I think I did a pretty good job making Naranja sound like a real school. Please leave reviews and tell me how you feel about this story so far, I appreciate all reviews, even negative ones.
Also, I just wanted to say that the next 3 chapters or so are gonna kind of just focus on day-to-day adventures around Naranja. But don't worry, I plan to make it super interesting with a ton of development for our main characters.
Okay, well, I have work in the morning, so Imma go sleep now— letsgojojo, signing out.