Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

I don’t own Pokemon, the multimedia franchise, sadly. This is just a fanwork.

“Talking”

‘Thoughts’

“Narration”

*sound effects*

[Pokedex entry]

“Ash’s second day in Paldea was a small sightseeing tour, meeting new Pokemon. The little tour came to an exciting end with two new Pokemon crashing into him. After his first real Pokemon battle in the Paldea region, Ash caught two new Pokemon. Cyclizar, and Toedscool. Now with his first Day of class approaching how will our Champion deal with a Classroom of students? 

*Beeap*

*Beeap*

*Beeap*

*Beeap*

Ash’s Rotom Phone alarm rings out. “Gaaaaauuu.’ A groggily Ash sat up, grabbing his Phone to hit the snooze. He set up his alarm for 5:50 Am, why so early? So he can get used to his new schedule. After a quick shower and getting dressed in the school uniform, Ash plans to set off to fields outside the city for some training after breakfast, to get to know his new Pokemon better. He’s playing it safe, not doing his training in the academy’s large field or in one of Mesagoza’s parks.

Now Ash was at a nice flat field with a large tree to provide shade, it was just off to the side of the road, near Los Platos. “All right guys! Come out!” Ash threw out four Pokeballs. “Prime.” “Bulba.”

Toe-AAAAAAA!” “CYCLAAAAA!” Oh boy, Ash knew this would happen, That Cyclizar still wanted a literal piece of Toedscool.

“Bulbasaur could you…”

Bulba.” Ash didn’t need to say more, Bulbasaur knew what to do. He has been the ‘straight man,’ the responsible one of Ash’s Pokemon. Bulbasaur shoots out a vine toward the dragon. Cyczar didn’t notice something grab onto his tail as he pounced towards Toedscool. “Cyaaa” *pwoom* he was yanked back down. Cylizar finally noticed the vine wrapped around his tail.

“Toooooooooee!” As Toedschool saw Cyclizar again, he dashed towards Ash, quickly climbing up, and hugged Ash’s head tightly.

“Cyc cyc.” Cyclizar was tugging and pulling, but Bulbasaur’s grip was ironclad. “Okay, enough, Cyclizar calm down.” Ash throws a Poffin at Cyclizar, the dragon catches the treat and begins to snack on it. Ash got the Poffins from the cafeteria, the Pokemon treats on offer for this week are poffins, so he grabbed a few for training. “You can let go of Cyclizar now, Bulbasaur.” “Bulba.” “ Toedscool, can you stop hugging my face?” Ash asked the woodear Pokemon.  “T-T-Tooed.” Toedscool reluctantly released his grip on Ash’s head and climbed down. “Alright, Bulbasaur! Primeape, come here guys.” As their names were called, they came to Ash. “Alright, here’s the plan, you guys along with Pikachu go with Toedscool. I’ll train with Cyclizar, and later we'll switch training partners."

“Prime.” “Bulba.” “Pika.” All three of them agreed to the plan. “Pikachu.” Pikachu grabbed  Toedscool and led him off to the other side of the field, along with Primeape and Bulbasaur.

As Cyclizar finished eating the poffin he saw the human that caught him. “Hey, I know I didn’t really introduce myself after I caught you yesterday. I’m Ash, your new trainer.” Ash said with a friendly warm smile. “Cyclizar!” he charges towards Ash, and jumps on him.. “Woah.” Ash was knocked down, and Cyclizar licked his face. “I take it this means you like me.” Ash asked. “Cy cy cy cy.” Cyclizar said while rapidly bobbing his head. Cyclizar likes his new human, he feeds him and gives him new tasty treats. “Okay, now that’s settled, let’s do some training! But first, let's see what moves you have.” Ash pulls out his Rotom phone to see what moves Cyclizar knows, besides the ones he already saw.

Looking at the phone showing Cyclizar’s stats. ‘Hmmm. he knows Tackle, Rapid Spin, Breaking Swipe, Bite, and Taunt. He has Regenerator as his ability. And not surprisingly, he’s fast.’ After taking in all the information on Cyclizar, Ash stands up and looks at his new Dragon Pokemon. “Alright! Let’s start training! Let’s start with Tackle! Use Tackle on the tree!” Ash said as he pointed to the large tree.

“Cy!” Cyclizar said as he Tackled the tree. “Cy cy cy Yc CY-LI-ZAR! Cyclizar tackled the tree a few times. Ash observes

Okay, Stop attacking for a moment” Ash commanded. “Cy.” Cylizar stops. “Okay, I’ve seen your tackle. Now how about Bite!” Ash picked up several thick and sturdy-looking tree branches. “Alright, here’s the plan. I’ll throw these branches at you. Ready? “ Cyclizar nodded.

“Cy!” *Chump* “Cy!” *Chump* Cyclizar made quick work out of the tree branches. “Now I’m gonna throw them at different angles now, and more are coming at ya!” “Cy!” *Chump* “Cy!” *Chump* “Cy!” *Chump* “Cy!” *Chump* “Cy!” *Chump* “Cy!” *Chump* “Cycccc-ah!” *Chump* Again, Cyclizar got all of the tree branches.

“Good work. You got all of them!” Ash praised Cyclizar. “Cylaa!” he laps up the praise. “Next, Rapid Spin. See that large rock over there? I want you to use Rapid Spin on it.”

As the Dragon Pokemon heard the command, he dashed towards the boulder. “Cy-cy-cy-cy-cy-cy-LIZAAR!” Before reaching the boulder he jumps up and begins to spin. Cyclizar hits the boulder multiple times with his tail, legs, and head.

“Again, great work, now use Breaking Swipe!” Ash yelled. “Cyclizaaaar!” Cyclizar’s tail glowed purple. *Smack* *Smack* *Smack*  Cyclizar struck the boulder quite rapidly with Breaking Swipe. Ash was evaluating Cyclizar’s performance. Cyclizar fits Ash’s training and battling style perfectly. As Ash was thinking up battle strategies and how to effectively use Cyclizar’s abilities, he felt something on his leg. It was Cyclizar. “Cy Cylizar!” After getting Ash’s attention he bent down.

Ash remembers the Pokedex entries about people riding Cyclizars. “You want me to ride you, huh?” Cyclizar excitedly nodded. “Well, alright. You insist.” Ash said with a smile, as he got on top of Cyclizar’s back. “CYLIAAAA” The Dragon Pokemon dashed off, running at full speed! “WOAAAH!” Ash was caught off guard and almost fell off. After a couple of laps, Cyclizar feels winded. Even after training, and Ash raiding on his back, Cyclizar was still fast and he kept it up for a while, ‘Impressive.’ thought Ash. Ash directed Cyclizar to the tree, Ash got off Cyclizar.

“Great work Cyclizar, amazing job. The ride was a bit bumpy, it wasn’t your fault, I just need to get a saddle for you.” Ash said as he sat Cyclizar down, and petted him. “Cy cy cyaaa.” Cyclizar thinks the pets are nice, after the tiring exercise. Ash stops petting Cyclizar and stands up, taking out a couple of poffins and giving them to Cyclizar. “Rest up, Cyclizar. I’m just gonna check how the others are doing.”

As Ash walks towards Pikachu, Primeape, Bulbasaur, and Toedscool, he sees how they are training Toedscool. “Bulba Buba Bulba!” Bulbasaur was using Vine Whip, the attacks were directed toward Primeape’s palms. “Bulba Bulbasaur.” Bulbasaur is gesturing to Toedscool to copy him. “T-Toeds!” Toedscool’s Vine Whips were… Pretty bad, Toedscool’s Vine Whips were either too short, or weak. “Hmm, Ape.” Primeape just said to try again. “Pika-Pika Pika Pi!” Pikachu was cheering Toedscool on.

“Hey, guys. How’s the training going?” Ash greeted his Pokemon

“Pika-pi!” “Bulba-saur!” “Ape.” “T-T-Toed!” Ash’s Pokemon greeted him with various levels of excitement.

“Okay, Pikachu, Bulbasaur, and Primeape. Take five guys, I’ll handle the rest of Toedscool training.” Ash said as he gave them some poffins.

Ash and Toedscool walk to another part of the field, away from the others.  “I’m not going straight to training. Here, have this.” Ash gave Toedscool a popffin. “Cools toedscool.” Toedscool starts to munch  on it. “So, Toedscool. Can you tell me what your life was like before I caught you?” Toedscool did his to describe his life before meeting Ash in between bites. Ash did his best to interpret what Toedscool said and acted out. So, Toedscool's everyday life was, trying to find food, running away from predators, and trying to find a herd of Toedscool to join. “Hmm… So, you're not a fighter. Toedscool, I won’t force you to train if you’re not willing. I know someone who’ll take in, that you’d like.” Ash said. “Toed! Toedscool! Toed!” Toedscool let out an indignant cry. “Toedscool toed toed cool.” Toedscool is willing to get stronger. When he saw Primeape beat Cyclizar, Toedscool wanted to be like him, brave and strong. Ash smiles at the Woodear Pokemon. “Alright. You’ve shown me you’re willing, so I will do my best to make you strong! Before we train, what did the other teach you besides Vine Whip?” “Toeds cool cool.” Toedscool let out some yellow powder, it was stun spore! But why would Toedscool need help with that move? “Alright let me just check some things out.” Ash checked Toedscool's stat. Toedscool knows Wrap, Stun Spore, Tackle, Absorb, and Mud Slap. Toedscool’s ability is called Mycelium Might, it makes spore moves affect Pokemon immune to statuses.

“Now let’s start training! First, I want you to extend your vines.” Toedscool complained with the command. “Good. When I was watching you train with the others, I noticed your trouble with controlling your vines when you extended them, so why don’t we fix that with some exercises? See these rocks on the ground? Pick them up and lift them.” ” Toed!”

“1,2,3. 1,2,3 1,2,3.” Ash and Toedscool have been at this for a while now. Toedscool lifting rocks and Ash helping him stay in rhythm. “Toed toed toed.” Toedscool was feeling the burn! ‘Okay, that's enough lifting.” Ash said. “Tooooeeed.” Toedscool let out a sigh. “Alright take 5, Toedscool.”

 After resting a bit, it was back to training. “Toedscool, can you show me your Stun Spore?” Ash was curious as to why Toedscool needed help with that move. “Toedscooooool!” Toedscool released a thin yellow cloud of spores. “TOOOOEEEED!” Toedscool became more forceful, the spores he let out clumped together, the spore clumps fell in front of him. ‘Ah, I see…’ Ash sees what the problem is, Toedscool also has problems with his Stun Spore. “I think I see the problem. Toedscool, you’re too tense and rigid. Build up your spores, be calm release them.” Ash advised his Pokemon, to the best of his abilities. “Toed toedscool.” Taking his trainer's advance into account, he released a cloud of Stun Spore. It didn’t look any different than his other attempts. “Don’t look so down, we're just getting started. You can’t expect perception on your first try.” Ash said to cheer up Toedscool. “T-Toed.” Toedscool is thankful for the words of encouragement. “Alright, let’s keep at it!” They continued their training. Ash and Toedscool were at this for a while. Ash sees the sun high up in the sky, looking at the time on his phone it says 11:48 A.m. “Alright Toedscool. Let’s stop for now. Now come on, let’s get the others.”

Ash rounded up his Pokemon, it was time to head back to the Academy. When they got close to Cyclizar, Toedscool climbed up his body and hugged his head. When Cyclizar saw Toedscool on Ash’s head, he charged at them. “Ape.” Primeape grabs the Dragon’s tail. “Cycl-ACK!” Cyclizar falls down, Primeape still holding on to his tail. “Oh, boy. Thanks for the save Primeape, you can let go of Cyclizar’s tail now.” Ash said. “Prime.” Primeape nodded and let go of the Dragon Pokemon’s tail. “Cyclizar we need to talk. Look at me directly, Please.” Ash said in a calm, yet commanding tone. “Cy…’ Cyclizar did his best to comply, but he can’t help but look at Toedscool. Ash sees this and says. “Hey, Toadscool. Can you get off my head for a moment?” Toedscool was scared but complied. “Thank you. You can wait with Bulbasaur, Pikachu, and Primeape. While I have a little chat with Cyclizar.” Ash said as he put Toedscool in the middle of the group. He then walks off a few meters away with Cyclizar.

Now that the two are far away from the others. Cyclizar can't be distracted by Toedscool. “Cyclizar, can you please not go after, and try to eat Toedscool anymore?” Ash said while kneeling to be at Cyclizar’s eye level. “Cy Cylizar cy cy li-li zar.” Cyclizar explains he doesn’t want to hurt Toedscool, he just wants to keep playing with the funny Pokemon. “Wait! You just wanted to play with Toedscool, is that why you were chasing him in the first place?” Ash asked. And the Dragon nods his head in confirmation. “Okay. That clears things up a bit. But Toedscool doesn’t see it that way, you're scaring him, Cyclizar. So, can you not jump at Toedscool for now, wait until he gets more self-confidence, please.” Ash said. “Cy.” The Dragon Pokemon understands. “Okay, good. Now let's go back to the others. Poffins are a nice pick-me-up, but now let’s get lunch. How’s that sound?” As food was mentioned Cyclizar became excited.

Ash and his Pokemon walked back to the school. He decided to walk to build up their appetite a bit more and help the team bond. Toedscool was sitting on Ash’s right shoulder, while Pikachu was on the left. Walking beside Ash are Bulbasaur, Primeape, and Cycliyar, Cyclizar is at the far side for obvious reasons, and Toedscool is still warry and scared Cyclizar might jump at him, but he is reassured and comforted by Pikachu and Ash. Cyclizar didn’t mind, and he was enjoying talking with his new teammates.

Ash and his Pokemon arrived back at the academy, taking the scenic route, it was now 12:32 P.M. The cafeteria was somewhat empty now, most students had finished eating, or taken their food to eat someplace else, or gone out to eat at one of Mesagoza’s many restaurants, which works for Ash, he’s less likely to be discovered. It was the same routine, Ash told his Pokemon to wait while he got their food. One dish caught Ash’s eye, Toedscool Croquettes… There were only a few pieces left, he took them. ‘I Hope Toedscool doesn’t have a strong sense of smell.’ If  Toedscool found out he was eating this, Toedscool wouldn't trust him or be scared of him thought Ash. Ash didn’t feed his Pokemon separately now, he wanted Toedscool to be more confident, and to show him Cyclizar didn’t want to hurt him, but they were on different sides. Toedscool was with Pikachu and Primeape, While Cyclizar and Bulbasaur were on other end. Again Toedscool was nervous to be around Cyclizar, Primeape, and Pikachu reassured him the dragon wouldn’t do anything. Now Ash was about to try the Toedscool Croquettes, they were golden brown flaky rectangles, as Ash took his first bite he was taken away by the textures, taste, and flavor! The garlicky crunchy outside, the soft and chewy earthy inside. Ash quickly eats the rest up, fearing Toedscool might find out.

After lunch, Ash returned to his room. After taking a quick shower to freshen up, Ash gets to work, prepping his materials, and practicing his introduction. On his first day of class, there won’t be much teaching, it will mostly be introductions, but hey, it’s good to be prepared. Late afternoon Ash started to make dinner, Ash was making extra for breakfast tomorrow. After eating dinner and cleaning up, Ash did some light stretches, setting up his clothes for tomorrow. Now sitting on his bed, laptop in his lap. Ash was looking over the student list. A couple of names caught his eye. Goodwin Juliana and Florian, Cabera Arven, and De Curiel Nemona. The twins, Ash had already met, they were interesting. Cebera… Isn't that the surname of Paldea’s top professors, Ash wonders what Arven’s relation to the professors was. And finally. Nemona De Curiel, Ash has heard of her, during his research into Paldea, the region's history, and League. Ash found Paldea’s League system interesting. There are, of course, Gyms and Conferences like most other regions. The unique thing about Paldea’s League is that more than one champion can be active at a time, it’s certainly an interesting system.

Ash has read up on Nemona. Watching her Mesagoza conference battles, looking over interviews. She has an interesting battle style, and in interviews, Nemona cites Geeta, him, Iris, and Gloria as her inspiration, especially him, Iris, and Gloria, due to how young they were when they became Champions. Oh, boy. Tomorrow will be interesting! Well, Ash had prepared and planned enough. While it was just 8:35 p.m. Still early, he wanted to get as much sleep as possible. He turns off the Laptop and puts it under his bed. “Night Pikachu. We have a big tomorrow.” Ash said to his Pokemon. “Pika.” Pikachu replied. The two turned in for the night.

*Beeap*

*Beeap*

When the alarm went off Ash quickly hit the snooze button.”aaaahhh! Today’s the day!” Ash said. “Come on buddy, wake up! We have class today!” Ash jokingly said. “Pikaaaa.” Pikachu yawned, still a bit sleepy. “Pi? PIKA! Pika chu chu!” At first, he was confused by what Ash said. They were already out of school, then he remembered! They are the teachers now! “Glad to see you’re as excited as me. Come on, let's eat breakfast, we can’t teach on an empty stomach.”

Ash heats up the food he prepared last night. He lets out Cyclizar first and asks the Dragon Pokemon to stand at the far side of the room for a moment, then he lets out Toedscool, Ash reassures him Cyclizar won’t do anything to him. Ash did this due to his dorm being smaller compared to the cafeteria. After eating, with no incidents, Ash cleans up. Ash bathes his Pokemon then himself, he gets dressed in his usual outfit. Ash double-checks his things. With nothing missing, he and Pikachu heads to the faculty room as quickly as possible, to not alert the student body.

Arriving at the faculty room, Ash sees Ms. Tyme and Mr. Salvatore. "Ah, Good morning Ms. Tyme and Mr. Salvatore.” Ash greeted his co-workers. “Pipi ka chu.” So does Pikachu.

“Mr. Ketchum. Good morning to you too, and Pikachu.” Mr.Salvatore said with a friendly smile. “Excited for your first day of class?”

“Good morning to you too, Mr. Ketchum.”Ms.Tyme said with a warm smile. “Aren't the two full of energy? Ready for your first day of teaching, Mr. Ketchum, and your little assistant?”

“Excited, and a little nervous. I was a guest speaker and gave several lectures at other Trainer schools, so I have some experience.” “Pika chu chuu.”

“Just put your best foot forward. And keep up the confidence.” Mr. Salvatore. “Now, I have to get going, I have a class to get to.” 

“Mr. Ketchum. Let me show you your desk.” Ms.Tyme leads Ash to a desk flanked by other desks in the middle of the room. “Here’s your desk in the faculty room, you may be familiar with it, this is where your Tera Orb was stored. Director Clavell forgot to tell you this was your desk when you first got here. Now just wait here for Ms. Dendra, she will show you your classroom. Now excuse me, I have a class to get to. 

“Thank you, Ms. Tyme,” Ash said with a smile.”Pika-chu!” Pikachu said with a small bow.

“You’re welcome, you two.” And with that, Ms. Tyme left. Now it’s just Ash and Pikachu.

“Hey, bud. Are you ready for our first day as teachers?” Ash asked Pikachu. “Pika pi pia chu ka.” The electric mouse responded. “Yeah. Let’s take  Mr. Salvatore's advice. Put our best foot forward and go from there.” Ash’s enthusiasm was always infectious, what little worry Pikachu had disappeared. “Ahem.” Both Pokemon and Trainer heard the faux cough, turning their heads to the door they saw Ms. Denrda standing there with a smirk on her face.

“Hey, there Mr. Champion, and Pikachu. I see you’re psyching yourselves up.” Still smirking, Ms.Dendra comes over and pulls out a chair from as desk behind Ash’s. “Looks like we're neighbors, but we’ll be facing opposite of each other most of the time. We have some time before the start of your class, do you have any questions.?” asked Ms.Dentra.

“Um… I just have one question. How did you feel when you first started teaching? I can’t say anything due to coming in now when things are much more stable.

Ms. Dendra smirks. “The big boss told you about the school's troubles, huh? “ Ash nods his head. “Well, you’re right about things running smoothly now, compared to when we first started. We were running all over the place, but that’s not what you’re asking about.” Ms.Dendra closes her eyes and crosses her arms. “Yes, I was nervous.” Opening her eyes back up, she looks Ash in the eyes. “But after the first class, the little bit of doubt disappeared, and the kids were nice and respectful. So that made things easy”

“Thanks for answering, Ms. Dentra.” “Pika!” Both of them gave their thanks.

Ash and Pikachu followed Ms.Dendra to his classroom. They ran into students on their way, and Ash greeted them. The students took a second to recognize him, and when they did, they had a freakout! Ms.Dentra reprimanded them, saying. “No Screaming in the halls!” But Ash knew, she was also having fun with this. They arrived at a door, above a sight said A-1.

“Well, Champ here we are. Wait here for a moment, while I’ll introduce you.” A smirk formed on Ms. Dentra’s face. “You saw how shocked the kids were when we ran into them in the halls, there's one special student in there that would scream louder than an Exploud when she sees you.” Ms. Dentra had a full-on smile now. She went inside the classroom.

“Alright right, Ms.Dendra is preparing the students, When she calls us, we'll be ready.” “pika!”

In room A-2, Students waited patiently for a teacher to arrive. Some students pass the time by talking to their friends or using their phones. Certain students' thoughts were elsewhere.

‘Why am I even here.’ Thought one Arven Cabera, Son of Paldea’s top Professors. He was urged to attend more classes than just Home economics. Arven lets out a sigh. 

'I’ll give this class a shot, it won't hurt, and I might learn something.' Plus Arven needs all the advantages he can get if the new kids aren’t willing to help him…

‘Ahguh! Why is this day taking soooo long!?’ Thought one Penny Rose. Here’s the Big Boss of Team Star, plotting the downfall of the very Team she founded… Why did it all fall apart?! She just wanted to help! Help her friends stand up to the bullies and make school a better place… Team Star and her friends are now branded as bullies. with how Giacomo, Attaicus, Ortega, Mela, and Eri let their crews run wild, with no oversight! ‘Dammit, guys! What are you doing?!’ Penny screamed mentally. She was just so frustrated! Every plan of her’s just made things worse… She’s truly her father’s daughter… Now she’s stuck in this stupid class.

Mr. Harrington, before he resigned, doctored her transcript, to make it look like she was a new student with social anxiety, not good with large groups. So she had an excuse to be shut in her dorm and just be given assignments. This was done to give her some breathing room when she came back to the academy, to talk to her friends and explain what happened, but that plan fell through. And the new administration gently urged her to attend some of her classes. Penny agreed to throw suspicion off her because when she tried to recruit Florian and Juliana for Operation Starfall her horrible luck stuck again! The school’s new Director heard their conversation! Now all Peny can do is try to get through the day.

Florian Goodwin was just waiting for something to happen, for the teacher to arrive and class to start. He looked around and saw Nemona. ‘Weird, isn’t she already a Champion, why is she in this class?’ Thought Florian. The other person of interest he saw was Arven. ‘What does he know about Koraidon and Miraidon, what’s his secrets.’ When Florian and his sister, Julianna first met him he was a bit of a jerk and was really mean to Koraidon and Miraidon, they obviously have a history with each other. But when he and his sister tried to get answers from Arven he was nervous and looked uncomfortable, being nice, they backed off, for the moment. Maybe if they help Arven find the Herba Mystica, then he would talk. Looking around again, he sees the girl he and his sisters saved from two Team Star goons on their first day. ‘What was her name again? Ah, Penny.’ She looked uncomfortable being in class, the director said she was shy. Florian was done looking around, he was resting his face in his left hand, looking out of the window. ‘Man, what a week it has been.’ Moving to a new region, and attending a new school was a big change to his life, but in the first week, he and his sister met and befriended one of Paldea’s Champions. Met Koraidon and Miraidon, mysterious powerful Pokemon, then they met the top Professors of the region and they were asked if they were willing to take care of Koraidon and Miraidon, the rest of the week were classes and shenanigans involving the two Dragons. Florian was taken out of his thoughts, he felt somebody poking him, turning around to see who was poking him. He wasn’t surprised to see the one poking him was his sister, Juliana.

“Sis, stop that.” 

“Come on Florry, I’m just trying to get your attention.” Julian said in a cheeky tone. “You looked bored, I just wanted to help you pass the time. So what's on your mind?” 

“Our insane first week here in Paldea.” Florian said in a somewhat dry tone. 

“Oh yeah! And you were so sad when we first moved here. See everything turned out fine! We have new amazing friends. Our adorable starters, and Dragon Pokemon! See you just have to look at the bright side of things.” Julian said in a cheerful tone. 

“Yeah. But I can’t help missing our old house and friends. And still can’t believe Big-sis Gloria is a Champion. 

“Yeah! I’m still holding on to the promise we made. That we’ll get stronger and face her in a Pokemon battle. Do you still remember that Promise Flory?” Julianna asked.

Gloria Shields, the current reigning Champion of the Galar Region. The twins met her when they were young, they became good friends. The twins really looked up to her, giving her the nickname Big-sis. Florian was sad they couldn’t say goodbye in person due to her busy schedule.

“Hey, earth to Florry. You’re spacing out again.” Juliana pokes Flurian to get him back to reality. “Hey, I said, do you still remember the promise we made to big-sis?” She said again.

“Ah! Sorry. I remember. It’s just you bridging that up got me thinking… I’m still bummed that we did get to say goodbye in person before we moved.” He said in a somewhat melancholy tone.

“Oh, Florry. Don’t be like that. It’s just-” Before Juliana could finish her sentence, she and the rest of the class heard the door open. The students scrambled to get into proper sitting positions and look presentable.

Ms.Dentra walked into the room. Now in front of the class, she takes a look at them. “I haven’t been keeping you guys waiting too long?” She said with a mischievous smile.

“NO MISS DENDRA!” Most of the class said in unison.

“That’s good. Wouldn't want to make the new guy self-conscious on his first day.” she said, still smiling. When the class heard the part about a new guy, it got them curious.”Sorry to say this, kids. But I’m not your Pokemon care and Battles studies teacher. I’m just guiding and introducing him.” Ms.Dendra then turns to the door and yells. “YOU CAN COME IN NOW!”

“YOU CAN COME IN NOW!” Ash and Pikachu heard Ms.Dendra yell.”Looks like that's our cue. You ready, Pikachu?” Ash asked his Pokemon. “Pika!” A firm ‘Yes’ came from the electric mouse. “Alright! Let’s knock ’em dead!” With a confident step, Ash opened the door and walked in.

The Students were a little excited. A new teacher joined the school, they wondered who he is. Ms. Dendra moved to the side of the room, now leaning against the wall, with a subtle smile on her face. The door opened, and the person who came through had a Pikachu on his shoulder. He wore a blue hat with a white front, and on the right side of the hat was what looked like a pin badge, students with a more keen eye recognized the pin badge as a Keystone! Their teacher wore a long-sleeve black shirt, and over that was a sleeveless blue long coat with a popped collar, yellow trim, and white pockets on the lower half. And he wore Charcoal gray cargo pants. The students were silent for a moment, giving their new teacher a good lookover, and then it suddenly hit them like a Giga Impact!!! They know who this is! Some saw him on TV, others online, in newspapers, magazines, cereal boxes, and on KETCHUP BOTTLES! THIS IS ASH KETCHUM!!! Alola region's Champion, Orange League Hall of Famer, and World Monarch! A veritable pin can be heard dropping…

“AAAAAAHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!”

Most of the students screamed in shock!

“IT’S HIM!!! IT’S REALLY HIM!!!   

“OMG! OMG! OMG!

“IT’S THE WORLD CHAMPION.”

“THE PIKACHU!!!!

 "!!!!I10MILLI BOLTS OF AWESOMENESS!!!’

“PIKACHU IS SOOO CUTE”

“CAN I GET YOUR AUTOGRAPH!!”

“CAN I PET PIKACHU!!!”

“IS ANY OF THIS REAL?!?!”

“ALGUIEN ME PELLIZCA DEBO ESTAR SOŃANDO”

A black-haired girl with green highlights screams in Paldean. She had a manic expression, It looked like she was on the verge of fainting.

Ash expected this, an explosive reaction to him and Pikachu. But they didn’t expect Nemona to be this excited to meet them… Pokemon and Trainer were suppressing giggles at the over-the-top reactions of the class. “QUIET!” Ms.Dendra yelled. “Look, I know it’s exciting to have Champion Ash Ketchum here. But you’ll get used to him, he’ll be your teacher for the school year. So please behave yourselves and let him do his thing.” Ms. Dendra scolded the class, but Ash saw she was also suppressing a smile. She turns to him and says “Alright, Champ, my work here is done. I’ll leave them all to you.” Before leaving she addresses the class. “Don’t give Mr. Ketchum too hard of a time. And De Curiel! Relax and breathe, girl.” And with that, Ms.Dendra left. It was now just Ash, Pikachu, and his students. 

“Ahem.” Ash clears his throat. “Well, You guys already know who I am, but I still wanna do a proper introduction. I’m Ash, Ash Ketchum, and this is Pikachu, my starter and friend.” “Pika Pi kachu!” The mouse Pokemon raised his arms and he waved at the class. Ash can’t help but chuckle a bit, seeing the students barely contain their excitement, one of them was even turning blue. “Miss De Curiel! Remember what Miss Dendra said, breathe.” Ash said to the girl.

“Ah, um, Yes-SI!” Nemona stammered out. ‘Clam yourself, girl! You're a Campion! The very pinnacle, representing the highest ideals of Paldea! BUT AAAAAH! ASH KEPCHUM IS HERE WITH HIS LEGENDARY PIKACHU!’ Nemona tried to compose herself but failed. One of her idols was right in front of her, and he said he was going to be their teacher! How can she not be excited?!

“As Miss Dendra said, I’ll be your Care and Battle studies teacher for the school year.“ Ash said as he placed his bag on the table and took out his laptop. Ash twists the laptop monitor to transform it into a tablet, popping out a stylus he broadcasts to the Electronic blackboard. Ash selects his slide show. The first slide says hello and welcome! “I’ll start with our schedule.” Ash swipes the tablet screen bringing up the next slide with the time and days of class. “Here’s our class schedule. On Monday and Tuesday, our class starts from 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m.  And will be on Pokemon Care. On Thursday and Friday, class is from 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. and we’ll be on Battle Studies. And depending on the lesson, we’ll go out to the field.” Ash stops his discussion for a moment to look at the class. Looks like they’ve calmed down a bit, except for one, at least she remembers to breathe now.

“Now we know what time class starts. Now let’s have a little  introduction to my subjects, Pokemon care, and Battle studies.” Ash then queues up a set of slides, pictures of People in lab coats playing, taking care, and examining Pokemon, the pictures are from the staff of Cerise laboratories, Professor Oak’s lab, and of Brock being a Doctor. “Pokemon Care will teach you how to better care for your Pokemon, and deepen your bonds with them.” Pausing for a moment to look at the class, Ash sees them listening intently. “I will also discuss specific Pokemon species, general type overviews, and specific Pokemon. I hope my lessons will help you avoid the beginner pitfalls.” Ash chuckles a bit. Remembering the many mistakes and dumb decisions he made in his younger days.

Now Ash queues up a new set of slides, of Pokemon battling, using moves, and some shots of Pikachu using Thunderbolt! “Now onto Battle studies! I know some of you already have a good grasp of battling.” Ash said with a smirk looking at Nemona's way. Said girl letting out an “EEK!” of excitement when Ash looked at her. “I’ll be teaching the basics… '' Pausing for a bit, Ash smiles. “And then the advance stuff, along with my personal spin on things.” As Ash said that he heard a muffled “¡SÍ! ¡SÍ! ¡SÍ!” Coming from Nemona. That got a chuckle out of Pikachu and him. "I’m here to help you become great battlers and show you guys the more intricate side of Pokemon battles.” 

The final slide was a cartoon outline of a Pikachu head with words over it saying, Thank you. “We are at the end of our inductions. Thank you for listening” Ash said to the class. “Pika chu pi.” Both trainer and Pokemon said their thanks to the class. “Now, do any of you have any questions?”  Ash asked the class. Not surprisingly, some ask to get his autograft, a picture with him, or to pet Pikachu. “Sorry, guys. But I have to be somewhat professional, so no autographs or pictures during class, during class hours please just think of me as your teacher, not some mega-celebrity.  As for petting Pikachu, well you guys will have to wait till later in Pokemon care”  Ash said.

The students murmured and mulled over what their new teacher said. They were excited to pet and be able to touch the legendary Pikachu of the World Monarch. Then one student had an epiphany! He raised his hand and asked. “Champion Ketchum! You said no autographs or pictures during class, but what about after?” The students after hearing that were excited again. Ash and Pikachu looked at each other, they knew where this was going. “Alright, I can give you my autographs, and take pictures with me and Pikachu after class.” The student’s chatter got a bit louder. “But please be respectful to me, Pikachu, and yourselves, no shoving or pushing. And don’t call me Champion all the time, please. Just teacher or Mr would do. ” Ash said to the students. They talked among themselves for a bit. “Well look at the time, we only have 15 minutes of class left. Time flies when you’re having fun.” The class looked at the clock above the blackboard, class was almost up. “You guys already know me thanks to, well… my fame, but I don’t know anything about you guys. Sure I know your names, thanks to the students list, but I like to get to know you guys a bit better. Now on a sheet of paper write your name, and tell me a little about yourselves, your goals, and your aspirations. If you guys are uncomfortable sharing something personal, that’s okay, just write what you want to get out of my class.” The class went to work, writing down their introductions for Ash. After the class finished writing they all handed their paper to Nemona to pass them to Ash.

“H-h-h-HERE YOU GO CHAMPION KETCHUM! I MEAN!” Nemona was really nervous talking to Ash.

“That’s alright Miss De Curiel. You can go back to your seat.” Ash smiled at Nemona, taking the papers and putting them on his desk.

“Ah, Si, de nada Señor Ketchum!”  Nemona dashed back to her seat.

Looking at the time there were still a couple of minutes left before class ended. ”Alright, class. I know I said I’ll give my autograph after class, but I don’t want to make guys late for your next class, form a line to those who want my autograph.” The students frantically grabbed sheets of paper and stood up, remembering Ash’s words about not being rude or rowdy. They formed a messy line. Ash rooting around the desk drawers found some pens, pencils, erasers, sharpeners, and an ink pad. Ash took a pen and the ink pad for Pikachu. The students formed a messy line, Ash signed some autographs, and Pikachu put his foot and handprint next to Ash’s signature. Some students didn’t stand up and rushed to get Ash’s Autograft. They're patient, plus he said he’ll be all school year, so he isn’t going anywhere anytime soon. *Ring* *Ring* *Ring*

The school bell rang signaling the end of class. Ash and Pikachu quickly finished up the last few students who wanted their autographs. “Well, our time is up, You all better hurry up and get to Miss Raifort’s class. Thank you all for listening and making my first day as a teacher a memorable one.” Ash thanked his class. “Pika Pikachu!” And Pikachu also gave his thanks.

Ash and Pikachu were back in the faculty room. Resting a bit after their first class. “Hey, bud. What do you think of our first class and our students?” 

“Pika..Pika pi chu ka!!” He replied.

“Yeah, they're a lively bunch, but considering who we are, it's understandable.” Ash smiled. “But I’m a bit embarrassed for causing so much noise. Hehe.” Ash laughed and laughed.

“Pi pikachu ka.”

“Yeah, it can’t be helped, it’s just something that comes with fame. Now let’s get some work done before our next class.”

“Pika!”

While Ash was asked to primarily teach Pokemon care and Battle for Uva Naranja, after seeing how much the staff was stretched thin, Ash offered to help out more. Director Clavell and him discussed what to add to his workload. Ash was a certified genius when it came to battling. Patience, and understanding towards Pokemon and people, perfect for his current subjects. But when it came to the more traditional academics, Ash was average, so having him teach other subjects was a no-go. Director Clavell asked if Ash was willing to watch over a group of preschoolers. The Uva Naranja also has a preschool and kindergarten section. Ash says he’ll do it! He can handle younger kids. 

“Hey, buddy. When the kids get too grabby, can you please not electrocute them?” Ash said to his Pokemon.

“Pika… Chu pika chuuu chu.” Pikachu replied. He’ll try his best.

“Alright! Let’s go!”

Ash and Pikachu wandered around a bit, trying to find the preschool section, but they didn’t have a guide this time, just directions. While walking, Ash thinks about his new students. He's hoping they would get over his Mega-star status and just see him as their teacher because it would be hard to teach them, always being so nervous around him. After some time they found the preschool room. The sight above said Swepa room. Ash and Pikachu can hear sounds from the room. Looks like they already started.

“Looks like we're a little late. Hehe.” Ash was a little nervous, thinking he’d make a bad impression on his co-worker.

“Pika Pikachu!” Pikachu reassured Ash.

“Thank bud. Let's do this, we already got through one class.” Ash knocked on the door and said. “Um. Hello?” Ash said to get the teacher’s attention from inside the room.

The door opened, and a woman was on the other side of the door frame. She looked at Ash for a moment then her eyes widened in shock and realization! She almost screamed in excitement, but she quickly covered her mouth with her hands. “Yo-You-You’re Champion Ash Ketchum! And his Pikachu!” She almost screamed out. “Champion Ketchum, Pikachu It's such an honor to meet you-” Ash put up his right hand signaling her to stop. “Just Ash or Mr. will do. I’m not too big on formalities.

And are you Miss Maria, didn’t Director Clavell give you a heads up I’ll be watching over the kids in the preschool section, with you?” Ash said.

Pikachu in all this was suppressing a laugh.

“Um-um-um Y-Yes! I’m Maria. And WHA-?!?!” She was a bit shocked she would be working with him. Ms. Maria quickly took out her phone. She sees an unread message that confirms what Ash said. “Champion- I mean Mr. Ketchum!” Maria said, still a bit nervous.

“Please calm down, miss Maria.” Ash said in a calm voice. “Please, just think of me as any other person, I’m just here to teach the kids.”

“Ah, yes. Um…“ Ms.Maria takes in a deep while massaging her temples, “Again, sorry. I’m calm now, I’m calm. Well. Mr. Ketchum, I’m looking forward to working with you.” Ms. Maria said with a smile, as she extended her right hand for a handshake.

Ash accepts the handshake and smiles. “Me too, I look forward to working with you, Miss Maria.” 

Ms. Maria went back inside the classroom to get Ash an apron. After putting on the apron Ash enters the classroom, he sees Ms.Maria talking to the class, the kids asking her who was knocking. She smiled at them. “Kids, let me introduce you to your other teacher besides me.” She gestures for Ash to come in front of the class. “This is Mr. Ash, he’ll be teaching alongside me. Now Mr. Ash, please introduce yourself to the class.” 

“Hello! Like Ms. Maria said I’ll also be your teacher! And I also brought a friend with me. This is my Pokemon Pikachu! Say hi to them, Pikachu!”

“Pikachu!” Pikachu jumped off Ash’s shoulder and landed in the middle of the desk. He waves at the kids.

“Hello, Mr.Ash, and Pikachu!”

The kids greeted Ash and Pikachu.

After their introduction, Ms. Maria said they were about to learn about shapes before Ash and Pikachu arrived. So there they were teaching about the many different shapes and how to draw them. Ash and Ms, Maria were on stand-by to help out kids who were struggling to draw some of the shapes. After drawing the shapes Ms. Maria said they would color them in with whatever color they liked. Ash and Pikachu watch the kids, to make sure they don’t get messy and to help out any kids that need it. After their lesson for the day, it was playtime! The kids took various toys from the room, and some came up to him, asking if they could play with Pikachu, Ash agreed but said not to be rough with him. Ash looks at Pikachu remembering what they talked about early, not shocking the kids when they get too rough. 

Well, It looks like Ash was worried over nothing. The kids weren’t too rough playing with Pikachu. They were playing pretend, Pikachu doing his famous impressions and the kids loved it! After playtime was storytime, and the story for today was the ugly Ducklett, a story about A Galarain Farfetch'd egg ending up in an egg clutch of a Swanna. After storytime, it was naptime, all that was left for today was to wait for the kids’ parents to come to pick them up.

After all the kids went home, Ash and Ms.Maria cleaned the room. By the time they finished, it was 12:30 P.m

“It’s lunchtime now, me and Pikachu are gonna get some food. What about you Miss Maria?” Ash asked.

“I have some other things to do. I’ll get lunch later. And Mr.Ketchum, You did an amazing job. The kids really love you.” she said with a smile.

“No Problem Miss Maria. I had fun taking care of the kids.” “Pika!” Both Trainer and Pokemon were proud of their first day being teaching. “Well, we're off. See you tomorrow.“ “Pika chu.” With that, both of them were off to the Cafeteria.

Ash and Pikachu didn’t stay and eat in the cafeteria, Ash just grabbed some food and dashed straight to the faculty room. Ash didn’t want to cause a commotion due to people wanting to meet him, heck when he entered the cafeteria most students were stunned not believing what they were seeing. The World Monarc in the cafeteria grabbing as much food as quickly as possible and putting it in containers. When Ash got to the faculty room he saw Mr.Jacq and Mr.Salvatore eating.

“Good afternoon Mr.Jacq and Mr.Salvatore.” “Pikaa!” Both of them greeted the two teachers.

“Good afternoon to you two.” Said Mr Mr.Salvatore.

“Ah, Good after Mr.Ketchum and Pikachu. How is your first day of classes? ” Asked Mr.Jacq.

“It went pretty well.” Ash said as he went to his desk.”And Sorry If my class got a little too loud.” Ash laughed a little, he felt a little embarrassed about how loud the class was.

“No worries. We expected a loud reception from the students.” Even Mr.Jacq can’t help but laugh at the day's shenanigans. “But we didn’t expect Miss De Curiel to be louder than an Exploud!”

“Dijiste mi amigo.” Even Mr.Salvatore is smiling. “During my class, we heard some muffled screams then a really loud one, I would recognize that voice anywhere, it was Miss De Curiel! I Knew she would have quite the reaction to seeing you.”

“If it isn’t too much trouble, can you tell us your first class went over lunch?” Mr.Jacq suggested.

“Sure, no problem.” Ash said as he opened his lunch container. “Pika pika chu!” Pikachu also wanted to tell his part in the day’s events. He starts when Ms.Dendra introduces him and Pikachu to the class, the entire class giving him and Pikachu a good lookover and the explosive reaction to recognizing him! After the class calmed down a bit, Ash did his introductions for his subjects, and the students listened to his discussion. One particular student looked ready to explode and jump up from their desk to demand a Pokemon battle but simmered down as the class went. That description made Mr. Jacq and Mr.Salvatore have a nice laugh. While Ash’s Preschool class. Meeting Ms. Maria, helping out the kids, and playing with them. And shockingly, they weren’t too rough when playing with Pikachu. While Ash was telling his story he was feeding his Pokemon, one at a time due to the much more limited space.

“That’s my first day as a teacher. A great experience, all things considered, but I hope as the days go on the students won’t be as excited or nervous around me. ” Ash lets out a sigh. “So I can eat in the cafeteria or out in the field without causing a commotion.” He then turned towards Mr.Salvatore “Oh, almost forgot. Mr.Salvatore, thanks for the advice, it really helped.” Ash said to the man.

“De nada, Mr.Ketchum.” Replied Mr.Salvatore.

“Mr. Ketchum. Can I see your phone for a moment?” Mr. Jacq.

“Sure?” Ash didn’t see the harm in agreeing to Mr. Jacq’s request.

Ash handed his phone to Mr. Jacq. He fiddled with it for a moment. “Ah, I knew I forgot something.” Mr. Jacq looks at Ash and smiles “While your Dex is the international version, it’s missing a feature specific to Paldean PokeDexes. It’s the Terra-type scan, it allows you to see what Terra-type the Pokemon has. I was supposed to give you this feature when I showed you to your dorm on your first day. Eh, he he. It slipped my mind. ” He then pulls out his own phone and fiddles with it, after a few seconds *beep* beep* sounds came from the two phones indicating a successful transfer of data. “And Done.” Mr. Jacq handed Ash’s phone back.

“Thanks, Mr.Jacq!” 

“No Problem Mr. Ketchum.” He replied.

As Ash finishes up his food and friendly conversation with his coworkers, he gets started on work. First, he reads the introduction from the students. Ash was surprised by the variety of goals the students wanted to strive for. He expected a good majority to say they wanted to win the Paldea league or be champion, those were still in there, but there were ones that said they wanted to be coordinators, movie stars, performers, doctors, rangers, breeders, etcetera. And there were the ones where they just said their name and just a basic goal. One Penny Rose said she just wants to get through the school year, and Arven Cabrera basically said the same thing. Penny Rose, Ash read her student file carefully, there was an extra note from the Director about Penny. She was shy and antisocial, preferring to do her schoolwork remotely from her dorm. Director Clavel has been slowly urging her to at least attend one class, and Penny chose his class to attend.

“Hey, Pikachu.” As his name was called the electric mouse looked at his Trainer. “Do you  remember a girl with red and blue hair, and glasses in our class?” He asked his Pokemon.

“Mhh. Pika…” He thinks for a moment. “Pi!” Ah, he remembers seeing a girl like that in their class.

“Good. I’m bringing her up because she’s a special case.” Ash pauses for a moment, so Pikachu can get the implication. “She’s really shy. She preferred to just hand in school work, not going to her classes. She was urged to attend at least one class, and she picked ours. So let’s do our best to help her!

“Pika!” Pikachu enthusiastically replied. 

Ash smiles at his partner. They will do their best to help Penny out! The next person of interest was Arven Cabrera. Remember how he acted in class, he just sat there with a neutral expression. Ash wonders what he’s like, sure he has somewhat of a frame of reference. Arven being the child of the region’s top Professors, was he arrogant and a jerk like Garry was when he was young. Okay, that’s an unfair blanket statement regarding relatives of famous Pokemon professors. Chloe is a kid of a big-time Pokemon professor and she doesn’t act like an arrogant jerk, the opposite, in fact. Chloe was polite and reserved when Ash first met her. This was due to the people around Chloe comparing and expecting her to be like her father. But Ash can make an educated guess, the way Arven acted during class being half attentive, and his introduction paper said. ‘Hoping to get through the school year.’ So Ash is leaning on a Chloe-type situation. 

The twins, Florian and Juliana Goodwin. Ash and Pikachu ran into them yesterday. They seemed nice and friendly, And they found the twins’ antics amusing. Their introduction papers read like this, Juliana’s paper was confident, wanting to be a Champion and challenge the current reigning  Galar Champion Gloria Shields. ‘She has big aspirations. Let's see if her confidence can see her through any challenge that comes her way.’ thought Ash about Juliana. Florian was more grounded in his goals compared to his sister. He wants to be a good trainer to his Pokemon first, then be good at battling. ‘Florian has the right idea. He just needs a bit more confidence.’ Ash’s thoughts on Florian.

Nemona’s paper looked professional in the way it was composed and her handwriting was excellent. Not too surprising, besides being a Champion, she’s also the student council president of Uva Naranja Academy. Her paper says she doesn’t just want to rest on her laurels, no. She wants to keep improving herself, find new challenges, and overcome them. To represent Paldea and uphold the region’s highest ideals and standards. To be a good example and an inspiration to others. Ash had a soft smile on his face after reading Nemona’s introduction paper. When Ash fully grasped what it means to be a Champion, it was more than being the best a Pokemon battles, it’s being a representation of the Region, and somebody to look up to, Nemona fully understands that. ‘Still, why is she attending my class?’ Ash didn’t mind Nemona attending his class, he’s just confused. ‘She’s already a Champion, and you don’t become a champion without learning and mastering the skills and concepts I’m gonna teach. And she was as surprised as everyone else, so his appointment didn’t leak. Maybe I should just ask her.’ He thought.

Ash was done reading the introduction papers his students made. They give him some insight into their personalities, but he needs a week or two before he can group them up. Now Ash is working on his class for tomorrow, the first impression after catching a Pokemon. Grooming and cleaning them up after battle.

Lunchtime. A respite from classes for both students and faculty. A certain pair of twins made their way to the cafeteria.

“Augaaa!” Finally! I thought Miss Tyme’s class would never end! Glad it’s finally over.” complained Juliana. “Can’t wait to get some grub. ”

“Come on sis. Math class isn’t that hard. You need to put more effort into schoolwork. ” Replied Florian

“Oh, come on, Florry! You're more into nerdy subjects.” Juliana stops walking and turns around. Florian also stopped, wondering why his sister stopped in her tracks. Well, he got his answer. Julian grabbed both his shoulders and started to shake him. “HOW CAN YOU FOCUS ON BORING OLD MATH WHEN ASH FLIPPING KETCHUM IS OUR NEW TEACHER!!! She screamed.

“S-s-s-sIS! Saaa STOO-P S s sSkaign ME!” Florian screams at his sister. That got her to stop.  “And do-on- don’t be so loud! Do you want us to get in trouble!” He scolded.

“Ah- hu hu hu.” After her brother got out of her grip, Juliana was a bit out of breath. “Ah. Sorry. Sorry.” She fixes herself up, smoothing out the wrinkles in her uniform, and fixing her hair a bit. “It’s just that our time in Paldea is getting more interesting! Ash Ketchum. The guy who beat Leon and Big-sis! And now he’s our teacher!” A wicked smile now on her face “The Fool! I will learn his secrets and use them to destroy him! Ah-ha-ha-ha-ha!” Juliana said with an exaggerated evil cackle.

“Huuuh.” Florian just let out a long sigh at his sister’s antics. “Don’t count your Rookidees before they hatch.”  Florian walked by his sister, who was still in her fantasy world. “Well, I don’t know about you sis, but I’m getting hungry.” Florian was off to the cafeteria.

“Hey! Wait for me!” Julian runs to catch up with her brother.

Arriving at the cafeteria the twins see the hustle and bustle of the area. They looked around the cafeteria till they found Nemona. After getting some food they went over to where Nemona was sitting. Since they started attending Uva Naranja Academy they’ve always sat with Nemona during lunchtime. After the twins set down their food and released their Pokemon, they finally noticed Nemona acting weird, she had a starry look in her eye, her hands scrunched tougher under her chin, she was making squealing noises from time to time, and hadn’t touched her food. Underneath the table, her Pokemon, Quaxly, and Pawmi were happily eating lunch.

“Um... Earth to Nemona, I repeat, Earth to Nemona.” *Click* *Click* *Click* Juliana snapped her fingers a few times to get Nemona’s attention.

“Aug! Waah! Ah!” Looks like Nemona is out of her stupor, she quickly looks around and sees friends. “Ah. Hola Juliana, Florian. When did you get here?” 

“We just got here.” Said Florian

Juliana has a mischievous look on her face. “You were thinking about our new teach, weren’t you?”

“SI! No- I-i Mean…” Nemona stutters, surprising the twins a bit. Sure, they’ve only known Nemona for a week, but in that time they’ve gotten to really know her. After getting over the shock of finding out she’s a champion, the twins saw how Nemona was just like any other person, but seeing her so frazzled was a first. “He’s here… Ash Ketchum! The famous World Monarch is in our school and is our teacher for the year!!!” 

“Woah. Easy, girl. Calm down and relax.” Juliana is enjoying the show.

Taking a few deep breaths Nemona recomposes herself. “Ah. Sorry, It’s just one of the people who inspired me to become who I am today, one of my idols is right here! Eh he he…” Nemona takes a deep breath “I’m just nervous, what if I say the wrong thing? What if I make a fool of myself or-” She was cut off by Florian.

“Nemona. Stop.” Florian said in a stern tone. “Just approach him, and talk to him like anybody else.” Before Nemona can go off on a spiel about Champions, respect, and formalities. Florian strikes first! “Nemona. Please listen to what I have to say first before you rebuke me.” Nemona remains quiet till Florian finishes. “Not all Champions are as formal as Champion Geeta. There’s Big-sis, we told you stories about her, even after becoming Galar’s new reigning Champion she didn’t change, she was still the Big-sis we knew and loved, the only difference was she couldn’t play with us in the open anymore and she had less free time. Then there was you. When me and Juli found out you were a Champion, we were shocked, but hanging out with you showed us you were just like anybody else, you just happened to be a Champion. And now for Mr.Ketchum. I can make an educated guess he’s like you and Big-sis, Just like anybody else but he just happens to be World Champion. Sure, we only have had one class with him, but I watched, read, and listened to some of his interviews, and in all of them he seemed humble, and now I saw him in person, So in conclusion, relax first, and just talk to him.” 

Their table was silent for a moment, the only sounds that could be heard were the chatter and noise from around the Cafeteria, and the sounds of their Pokemon eating and talking to each other. Florian gave a good lecturing to Nemona. “Woah. I haven’t seen a Stern Florian talk in a while!” Juliana was the one to break the silence. Pneumonia gave Julianna a look that said, ‘What’s a Stern Florian talk?’ “A Stern Florian talk is when Florian puts his foot down and gives a person a good talking to. It’s usually me, and it’s usually a scolding when I get too rowdy, but sometimes it’s a pep talk to help me feel better.” Explained Juliana. “And wow. You’re the third person Flory has given his stern talks to, Nemona.”

Nemona thinks about what Florian said. Going over the many interviews she had watched and read about Ash, and their first class with him. He seemed really relaxed and approachable, so different from La Primera. Maybe Florian is right, her only point of reference in how other Champions act is La Primera. She just needs to calm herself down and talk to Champion Ketchum. “Thanks, Florian. You may be right.” She expressed her gratitude. 

“No Problem. I just saw you stressing yourself out for no reason.” Replied Florian.

After calming Nemona down the Trio started to eat. The twins still can’t believe how good the food is, Mr.Saguaro besides being their Home Ec teacher also cooks some of the meals in the cafeteria. As they continue to eat Florian remembers something.

“Um… Nemona.” When Florian said her name, she gave a “Hmm.” to indicate Florian had gotten her attention. “I don’t mean to be rude, but why are you taking Pokemon Care and Battle studies? You’re already a Champion, so why still take that class? I saw your reaction during the class, you didn’t know Mr.Ketchum would be teaching.”

“Oh, yeah! Why are you even going to Care and Battle studies?” Juliana chimed in too.

“It’s no problem, you guys,” Nemona said with a smile. “I want to experience school fully! Last year my school year was cut short because the Academy was shut down due to the controversy” Nemona explained. “But World Monarch Ash Ketchum being our teacher was an amazing surprise!”

The twins gave an “Ah.” as a response, understanding Nemona’s reason. The trio finished up their lunch and left the cafeteria. They were thinking of heading to the field to relax till their next class. The trio were a good few feet away from the Cafeteria when they heard a loud noise coming from the Cafeteria! The noise was the collective screams of the students in the cafeteria. They looked back and saw Ash Ketchum and his Pikachu Running away from the Cafeteria carrying tupperware of food?! The trio were dumbfounded at the sight!

Penny Rose dashed off to her dorm after Pokemon Care and Battle Studies class ended. She regrets picking that class as the one she has to attend physically. Massaging the sides and temple of her head, she got a headache from the class screaming so loud. Penny collapsed on her bed to think. ‘Heh. The new administration is really going all out. Former models, top researchers, scientists, professional chefs, and Mr.World famous! Ash Ketchum. And files I snagged from the school server said Hassel of Padea’s Elite is gonna be the Art teacher later in the year. Talk about overcompensating.’ Penny thought the last part out snidely. 

“Uuumbre.” Penny was taken out of her thoughts by her Umbreon jumping beside her on her bed.

“Oh, hey Bre. Miss me?” Penny sat up and petted her Pokemon.

“Umbreee” Umbreon let out a relaxed cry at the gentle pats he received.

Penny smiles softly at Umbreon. She usually leaves her Pokemon in her dorm, and Umbreon is the only one allowed to be outside of his Pokeball in her dorm room without her. That’s because Umbreon is the most mature of Penny’s Pokemon, he won’t cause trouble or a mess, just patiently wait for her to come back. 

“Oh. I should probably let out the others.” Penny got up and went to her desk. Picking up the five Pokeballs. “Alright, everybody I’m back.” Penny said as she released her other Eeveelution. 

“Jolt!” “Veepoor!” “Flaar!” “Leeeaf!” “Slyveee!” The Eeveelution cried out in chorus happy to see their Trainer back. Running around and cuddling up her legs, Sylveon wrapped her ribbons around Penny.

“Guys! GUYS!” Umbreon sees his traying having trouble with the other, so he jumps off the bed and lets out a low-power Dark pulse, and a Tailwhip for Sylveon to get them to stop. “Ah, Thanks Umbreon.” Umbreon just says ‘Bre,” and nods. “Guys. Do you Have to do this every time I leave for a little bit?” Penny tried her best to sound stern and angry, but a chorus of “joooo.” “pooor.” flaaa.” ‘leeee.” “Syllll.” pitiful whines and their cute sad faces. “Aw. You guys- Wait! Dammit! You guys got me again.” sighing, she accepts defeat. “Alright, guys. You can play around. Don't be too rowdy now, I got schoolwork do to. I’ll play with you guys later.” All of the Eeveelution scattered around the dorm room. Penny turned to Umbreon, who was still beside her. “Umbreon, can you…” Penny didn’t need to say more, Umbreon knew what to do as the eldest, and most responsible one. Umbreon will make sure the others don’t make a mess. “Thank you,” Penny said. “Um.” Umbreon replied back.

With her Pokemon playing around the dorm, and Umbreon keeping watch over them, Penny begins her work. First, do her schoolwork, child’s play. Math came naturally to her, the other subjects… Well, she’s gonna get some use of the other files she took from the school server, some Porysearch answers, and a bit of touching up, so they don’t call her in for Copy-paste answers. After Penny was done with her schoolwork, she now works on Operation Starfall. Acquiring resources, spying on her would-be helpers and Team Star…

“AUEG! Dammit guys! Why!” Penny cried out in frustration. The plan she and Mr.Harrington devised fell apart. Giacomo, Attaicus, Ortega, Mela, and Eri, and the rest of the Team Star’s lives are in danger of being ruined! “Again, Rose. You truly are your father’s daughter…” She bitterly said to herself. Penny felt something tug on her arm, it was Sylveon’s ribbons. Penny saw Sylveon looking at her worrying and sending a calming aura her way.

“Syl ylveon Syll.” Sylveon cried, asking what was wrong with her Trainer.

“It’s nothing, Sylveon. I’m just a bit frustrated.” Penny picked up the Pokemon and placed Sylveon on her lap. Penny caressed and petted Sylveon, while Sylveon let out a warm and calming aura. Penny was grateful to Sylveon for helping her relax. “EON!” Penny heard the combined cries of her other Eeveelution wanting to be played with too. “Well, I guess I'll take a break,” Penny said as she got ready to play with her other Pokemon.

Arven was in the field eating his lunch. The cafeteria has an open kitchen section for students who want to cock their own meals, and Arven took full advantage. It’s that he doesn’t like the food made by the cafeteria staff, it’s just cooking that helps him relax. Arven thinks about his day so far.

“Man, I can’t believe the school got Mr.World famous as a teacher.” Arven isn’t one to follow trends and celebrities, except for the ones in the culinary world. But some Stars grow so big it’s hard to miss them. Ash Ketchum is one such person, Arven's first encounter with him was a ketchup commercial featuring his ace Pokemon, Pikachu. After that Arven saw him everywhere! Arven kept hearing his name, seeing videos of him on the front page of Poketube, articles about him, and seeing him on some of the condiment brands he buys. So one lazy day, out of curiosity Arven looked him up. First and still current Champion of Alola, and World monarch, aka the top dog when it comes to Pokemon battling. At the very least Arven found something interesting in his search, a friend of Mr. World-famous who is a Pokemon Doctor who also has a food blog. Arven took a look at the food blog and tried out some of the recipes, Arven was shocked at how good they were, and they came with little stories about his time on the road with  Ash.

Arven looked to the side to his only active Pokemon, Skowvet finishing up his food. Arven thought about releasing the squirrel Pokemon, but Skowvet quickly got attached to Arven, it didn't feel right to just abandon him, plus Skowvet loves his cocking. “Maybe attending Mr.Famous’ class would do me some good.” Arven takes out a Pokeball containing something dear to him. “Those herbs have to be real!” Arven said as he tightened his grip on the Pokeball. “I’ve seen the weird things mom, and dad’s experiments produced. And crazy stuff in the news. Rare herbs guarded by large Pokemon can’t be that far off!” Arven was silent for a moment. Even if the herbs are real he needs to get through a Pokemon guarding them, and the book made them out to be absolute terrors.

It’s now 4:00 p.m. School just ended. Students flooded the halls, some going to clubs, and extracurricular activities, others going into the city to have fun and hang out with friends, and there were some who just went straight to their dorms or home. Ash and Pikachu spent most of their day in the faculty room, planning their lessons for the week, and going over the student’s papers again. They heard the bell ring signaling the end of the school day.

“Aaaaahhh” Ash stretches his arms up. “Hear that Pikachu? That bell means our first day is over! I think we had a pretty good first day, but what do you think?” He asked his partner.

“Pikaa… Pikachu pi pika pi chu chu!” The Pokemon replied. He also thinks they had a great first day!

“Ahuh. a little loud but fun! Well, let’s call it a day and head back to our dorm.” Ash said as he began to back up his things and head out. As Ash opened the door somebody was standing in front of the doorway, it was…

“Alright girl. Remember what Florian said. Just relax and talk to him.” Nemona said to herself, trying to ready herself to talk to one of her Idols. “Just knock on the door, girl.” Nemona was hesitant, she knew he was in there! She asked the other teachers and they said he was in the faculty room. When Nemona finally built up the nerve to knock the door opened… And there he was, Ash Ketchum, Alolan Champion, and World Monarch, and his ace Pikachu! Standing in front of her!

“Um. Hello Miss, De Curiel,” Ash greeted. “Do you need something?” He asked, but he had a good idea of what she might want.

For a moment Nemona’s mind was blank, seconds felt like hours, but seeing she was making things awkward said. “H-Hello, to you too, Champion Ketchum. If you aren’t busy, can I please talk to you?” Nemona said in a polite tone. ‘Ok, so far so good.’ Thought Nemona.

“Sure. I can talk. But first, let's get out of the doorway.”

“Ah, Si!” Nemona replied, being a bit embarrassed. 

Going back inside the faculty room, Nemona was still a bit jittery and nervous. “So what do you want to talk about?” Asked Ash.

Taking in a deep breath Nemona says. “I would like to request a battle.” Nemona said as calmly and respectfully as possible.

“Ok, sure.” Ash replied.

“Huah.” Nemona let out a deep breath, feeling a massive weight being lifted off her chest. “I’m sorry for bothering you- WAIT! Did you just say yes…” Ash nodded, conforming to Nemona he agreed.” YES!- I mean thank you, Champion Ketchum. Ehe he." She tried to downplay her outburst.

“Pikahaha.” The electric mouse tried to and failed to suppress a laugh.

“Miss De Curiel, or can I just call you Nemona?” Nemona nodded. “No need to be nervous, and just call me Ash or just Mister, please, I’m not too big into formalities. Ha ha, hu-uh. Even after five years I still can’t get used to being famous.” Ash said with a smile, trying to make Nemona less embarrassed

“Está bien Mr.Ketchum.” Nemona said. “It’s just you are one of my heroes! I was always interested in Pokemon battles, even at a young age. During the World Coronation series five years ago, I was on the edge of my seat! Then the Masters 8, oh the Masters 8 had my blood pumping! And the climactic finals with you and former Champion Leon! The 10 Million Volt Thunderbolt was awe-inspiring! That moment cemented my decision to be like you guys. To be the very best!”  Nemona said with genuine enthusiasm, Ash knows this drive and passion, He was like this when he started his journey.

“Nemona… I’m very honored you think so highly, I don’t know what to say.” Even after five years of being famous, Ash is still the same person, the only things that have changed is his height, and maturing a bit.

“Pikaa chuu.” Even Pikachu is a little embarrassed about all the praise.

“You’ve more than proven yourselves! People were skeptical about your status as a Champion, and the legitimacy of Alola’s newly established League. But you silenced those naysayers by making it to the Masters 8, beating the unbeatable Leon, and being crowned the new World monarch!” Nemona continues to sing Ash’s praises. “Ever since I was able to go on a Pokemon Journey I dreamed of meeting and challenging you. I thought I would have to wait a little longer before meeting you. Today is a Dream come true!” Nemona excitedly said. Ash observed her, at the beginning of their conversation Ash and Pikachu saw how Nemona tried to hide her nervousness, but now she fully relaxed. Both Pokemon and Trainer had the same thought to do a little prank.

“Oh, darn!.” “Pika!” Both Ash and Pikachu let out fake tones of distress. Nemona heard them say that she began to panic a bit.

“Wha-wha What’s wrong Mr.Ketchum?! Was it something I said?!” Nemona was jittery.

“No, Nemona. It’s me and Pikachu at fault.” Pika pika.” Pikachu did a little sorry bow. This confuses and agitates Nemona. Seeing this, Ask and Pikachu are gonna end the Joke, they don’t want to give the poor girl a panic attack. “You came here to ask me for a Pokemon battle, but it just ended up all about me. Do you still want to have the Pokemon battle, Nemona?” “Pii kaa!” Both of them said with a cheeky smile.

“Ah. SI! Mr.Ketchum. I would still like to battle!” Nemona’s panic was replaced with excitement.

“Great! But before we battle, I have a request.”

“What is it, Mr.Ketchum?”

“Well, can we fight in a private area? I don’t want the other students to see our battle.” Nemona gave Ash a puzzling look, wondering why he wanted that.”I am trying to make the students get used to me, to think of me as just Mr. Ash Ketchum, their teacher wanting to help them learn, not some mega-celebrity. I’m afraid if I show off my full strength the students would be nervous to approach me.” Ash explained. “Pikaaa chuu”  remembered he showed off at full power, not a happy incident to say the least.

Nemona took in what Ash said. She smiles at them. “Yes, I understand.” She knows the feeling very well. “Oh! I know a place where we can battle! Just follow me!” 

“Alright, lead the way.” “Pika!” 

Ash and Pikachu followed Nemona. They ran into the other teachers, said their greetings to each other, the teachers smiled at them. When Nemona asked them where Ash was, they knew where this was going, a small betting poll between Mr.Saguaro, Mr.Savatore, Ms.Dendra, and Ms.Raifort on who would win. When other students saw Ash, they were shocked! They didn’t believe the news spreading around that Ash Ketchum, the World Monarch was here and a teacher at their school. Ash still had the effect of stunning the students with the shock of his presence, when he walked by students there was a moment of silence, screams of surprise, and excitement! Ash and Pikachu had a good chuckle from surprised students, while Nemona jumped at the first scream.

Nemona led Ash and Pikachu to a northwest exit out of Mesagoza City. After walking for a while the terrain became rocky and mountainous. If Ash remembers correctly this was the way to the Mesagoza Stadium, but they went off the beaten path, till they arrived at a relatively flat field with some raised rocks and small mounds encircling the area, it looked like a perfect place for a Pokemon battle!

“Alright, we're here!” Nemona said as she spread her arms out wide as she did a little spin to face Ash and Pikachu. “My last-minute training grounds. I found this place last year. I wanted to do some training in between my matches during the Mesagoza conference.”

Ash and Pikachu looked around the area and saw a good place to seat their two newest team members. “Excuse me, Nemona, I have to do something real quick.” Going to the side, find a nice grassy area to sit on. “Alright you two, enjoy the show!” Ash released Toedscool and Cyclizar! “Cylizaar!” The dragon Pokemon cried cheerfully. “Toedo-ooooooDscooool!!!” As expected, when Toedscool saw Cylizar he began to panic and climbed up to Ash’s head clinging tightly to him, like his life depended on it!

“Cy.” Cyclizar looked a bit down after Ash told him how Toedscool thought he was gonna eat him. Toedscool felt bad about scaring Toedscool.

“Toedscool, you can let go now”. Ash said to the Woodear Pokemon. Toedscool lets go of Ash’s head, and Ash holds him to his eye level. “Thank you. I know you’re still scared of Cyclizar, but I promised you, he will not hurt you. So, can you just sit down and watch. Plus Pikachu here will keep you said,'' Ash said to reassure Toedscool. 

“Cy Cy li zar”  Cyclizar does his best to be friendly and promises to not do anything. 

“Pika Pikachu!” Pikachu grabbed one of Toedscool’s tentacles to calm him down and reassure him nothing bad was gonna happen when he is around.

“To-toed!” Toedscool reluctantly agreed to be in close proximity to the Dragon Pokemon.

“Okay, great!” Ash set down Toedscool a little bit away from Cylizar with Pikachu in between them. Still, Ask is counting this as a win in how fast he is helping Toedscool out. “ You three just watch and enjoy the show.” Ash said with a smile as he walked back to Nemona. “Sorry for keeping you waiting. I just had to sort things out with the new additions to my team.” Ash explained

Nemona saw the conversation Ash had with his Pokemon. “No problem, I understand. Pokemon have their quirks and all.” Nemona had her fair share of smoothing things out with her Pokemon. “Now! Onto our battle!” The excitement was palpable for Nemona, her dream was coming true! “I’m thinking of 3 on 3. Is that alright Mr.Ketchum?” 

“Yeah. I’m down for a 3 on 3. How about Megas, Z moves Terastallization, are they allowed?” Asked Ash.

“Yes. All those are allowed. But let’s keep things professional, only use one of those special battle abilities.” Nemona giggles a little. “And it’s a shame Dynamax and Gigantamax are only possible in Galar. I would love to see Dynamax and Gigantamax Pokemon in person, and battle it too!”

“Just to recap, 3 on 3. Mega Evolution, Z moves, and Terastallization, but only one can be used by each trainer. Is that everything?’ Nemona nods to confirm. “Alright, but before we start, I gotta withdraw a Pokemon.”  Ash takes out his phone and opens the Pokemon storage app. He selects a certain Pokemon of his.

“Ah! I almost forgot.” Nemona frantically took out her phone and withdrew her own Pokemon. “The Pokemon I have on me are young and inexperienced. Not suitable for this level of intense battle.” Nemona explained.

“Hey Nemona, why don’t you release your rookie Pokemon, to have them watch our fight? They could learn a thing or two, and maybe get excited seeing how strong they could get training under you.” Ash suggested. 

“Great Idea Mr. Ketchum.” As she finished up with her withdrawal. Nemona throws out two Pokeballs. “Come out Pawmi And Quaxly. “Paw!’ “Quax!” The two Pokemon cried. “Okay you two, you aren’t training or battling, no you two will be watching me battle!” 

“Pa paw!” “Quax Qua!” The two Pokemon were excited to see the show.

“Okay. see those Pokemon over there.” Nemona pointed toward Ash’s Pokemon. “They’re new friends! So why don’t you go and say hello.” Her two Pokemon made their way to Ash’s Pokemon, they introduced themselves, and they looked so adorable.

Nemona heard a beep from her phone, it was a request for a battle. “I went ahead and set things up. Are you ready, Neomona?” asked Ash.

“Yes, Mr.Ketchum. I’m ready.” Nemona’s voice was firm and serious. She hasn’t felt like this in a long time. Facing an opponent equal or greater to her.

“Champion Nemona De Curiel has accepted Champion Ash Ketchum’s challenge” The Rotom phone announced. The two phones flew off to the side of the battlefield, they acted as scoreboards and references. Gotta love how handy Rotom Phones are.

The two Champions were on opposite sides of the field steering each other down.

“GO TALONFLAME!”

“LET’S DO THIS FEAROW!”

Both of Champions' first Pokemon were flying types.

“It looks like the first round is a sky battle.” Ash chuckles at the coincidence.

“Seems so, Mr.Ketchum.” Nemona also found the coincidence funny.

“Well, how about you make the first move, Nemona”

“If you insist. Talonflame. Flame charge.” Nemona commanded.

“Taalon!” Talonflame’s body gets covered in fire as it speeds toward Fearow.

“Ferow doge with Double team!” 

“Fer row row row row!” Fearow barely dodged Talonflame's attack.

‘Looks like this is gonna be a battle of speed and agility.’ thought Ash. He has a good idea of what Nemona’s battle plan is. “Fearow Wing attack! While Talonflame is still recovering!”

“ROW!” Now the Beak Pokemon was on the offensive. Talonflame was slowing down and tried to turn around as quickly as possible, but it was too late. Fearow was on top of him. “FEAR!” Fearow hits Talonflame in the back!

*Smack* “Taaal” Talonflame fell, the scorching Pokemon recovered at the last second, and Talonflame was hovering just above the ground.

“Nice hit, Ash. But Talonflame is far from beaten!” Nemona said. Ash was a bit surprised by Nemona dropping the formalities, he could see how focused she was on the battle. “Talonfmale stay low for now!” Nemona commanded.

“Flame!” the Pokemon gave a firm reply

Fearow’s eyes were firmly on his opponent waiting for the next command. “Fearow Drill peck!” hearing that Fearow quickly swooped down, making a beeline for Talonflame.

“Quick attack!” Nemona yelled

“! Feaaah!” *Wham*  Now the tables have turned. Talonflame hit Fearow square in the chest, knocking the wind out of him. Now he’s on the ground.

“Fearow! Quick get back up!” Ash screamed.

“Flame charge!” Nemona yelled. She isn’t giving Ash and Ferrow a chance to breathe.

“TALONFLAAAMEE!” Talonflame is going straight for the still-disoriented Fearow.

“AAAEEEERR” Talomflame slammed into Fearow, hard. He was thrown back a couple of feet. “Fe-fe-fe- FEAROW!!” defiant stands up. He’s not going down that easy!

“Let’s end this with Flare blitz!” Nemona commanded. 

“FLAAAAAME!” Talonflame’s body is consumed by a raging inferno, and he’s gunning for Fearow!

“Fearow! Hold steady!” Ash said. “Keep your eyes on Talonflame!” The flaming bird Pokemon got closer. ‘SAND ATTACK THEN GET DOWN.” Ash waited for Talonflame to be at the terminal point of his change so he couldn't adjust.

“Ro-row” A swift flap of his wings sent dust and dirt Talonflame's way. Fearow laid flat as much as possible to avoid the attack. It was a near miss, Fearow felt the heat that came off of Talonflame due to how close it was.

“No!” Nemona cried.

“Flaaa-ump” Talonflame crashed into the ground.

Now it’s Ash and Fearow’s turn.”Use Wing attack to get back up!” Ash yelled.

Fearow ran to the crashed Talonflame. “Fe row fe row!” he swung his wings as hard as he could and used that momentum to get back in the air.

“Fla!” Talonflame felt those hits, along with the damage he took from the crash and recoil.

“Good job. Fly higher than Focus energy.” Ash said.

“Feeee.” Now high in the sky, Ferow concentrates. 

Nemona was thankful that Ash didn’t continue the attacks, but what he’s doing was still dangerous to her and Talonflame. She needs to End this now before their opponents’ can take advantage of Focus energy. “Talonflame. Fly back up, and use Tailwind!” Nemona is taking a calculated risk.

“Taalon!” The wind begins to pick up on Nemona’s side. 

Both bird Pokemon were setting up. They couldn't attack each other yet, it was a waiting game on who could finish their move first. Ash was impressed with how fast Nemona’s Talonflame recovered from the crash and Wing attack. Ash was trying to get a feel as to when Fearow was done powering up… “NOW LET’S END THIS WITH DRILL RUN!” 

“!” Nemona was shocked by the command Ash gave. In her readings, Fearow was Normal Flying. While it had some off-type moves they weren’t that surprising for the Pokemon to have. “MEET IT WITH BRAVE BIRD!” Nemona quickly yelled!

“FEAR ROW ROW ROW!” The spear Pokemon began to spin rapidly. He was ready to end this!

“FLAAAAMEE!” Talonflame was surrounded by energy as he rushed headlong against Fearow.

*BOOM SWOOSH* The force of the two attacks clashing made a sonic boom. Both trainers were caught off guard and almost were knocked down. “Fearaaw” “Taaalooon” Both bird Pokemon almost fell out of the sky, they quickly flapped their wings to stay up. It looked like they could still keep going until.

“Taaa lon.” Talonflame fell down with a *Thud*

“FEEEER!” Fearow let out a victory cry.

*Bzzzing* Talonflame Is unable to battle. The first point goes to Champion Ketchum.” The Rotom phone announced as a circular picture of Talonflame on Nemona’s phone is grayed out.

“Return.” Nemona recalled her fallen Pokemon. “You did your best.” She said to the fainted Pokemon.

“Will Champion Ketchum switch his Pokemon, or stay with his current one.” Asked the Rotom Phone.

“I’m not gonna switch.” Ash said.

Nemona sent out her next Pokemon. “Go, Tauros!.

“Taaaro!” the Bull Pokemon made Ash do a double-take, it was black, it wasn’t a Shiny as far as Ash could tell, so a regional variant was a safe bet. And Ash had to be careful, due to Tailwind still being in effect.

Tauros was at a disadvantage, being a mono-fighting type. But to a seasoned Trainer, or Champion type disadvantage can be overcome in creative ways. To Nemona, Type disadvantage just added to the excitement of the battle for her! She saw Ash a bit confused by her Tauros. ‘Better to keep Tauros’ type a secret for now.’ she thought. “Hey, Ash. You gave the first strike in round one, so how about I return the courtesy? You go first.” Nemona said with a smile.

Ash knew what Nemona was playing at. “Well, if you insist. Ash replied with a smirk. He was gonna play it safe a bit. “Fearow flies higher than Hyper Beam!” Ash said. 

“Feeearoooooow!” Energy builds at the end of his beak, then the energy shoots out in a powerful beam toward Tauros!

“Tauros Protect!” Nemona commanded. 

“TAAUU!” A shield appeared in front of Tauros. *Spoowm* The Hyper Beam was nullified!

Nemona was smirking, she had fully scouted Fearow's moves. She had a look that said ‘Come and get us,’ directed towards Ash and Fearow. Ash had to think carefully about his next move. Hyper Beam is Fearow’s only range option and it’s slow on the windup.

“Fearow, dive down, and go towards Tauros.” Ash didn’t become World Monarch by playing it safe.

Fearow compiled with the command, spooning down till he was just above the ground, headed straight for Tauros.

“Double edge!” Nemona yelled! 

“TAAUURUUS!” the bull Pokemon buckled forward.

“SAND ATTACK THEN HARD RIGHT!” Ash yelled.

“Fe!” Ferow stopped mid-charge. Flapping his wings to send dust and dirt Tauros’ way, and then making a quick turn to get out of the charging bull’s way. 

“Taaa!” Tauros missed and tripped, leaving him vulnerable.

“Now’s our chance! Wing attack!” Yelled Ash. Ash chose wing attack because of how close the two Pokemon were so close to each other, Drill peck, and run needed some space to windup.

“Fe-row fe-row fe-ROW!” Fearow let out a flurry of blows. It was going great until “Fea-ACT!”

“TUUUAAAARROOS!!!” The bull Pokemon let out an angry cry. Tauros jumps up and kicks Fearow with his hind legs!

“Now’s our chance! Double edge!” Nemona commanded. Before Ash or Fearow could recover! Nemona knows Taurus could take the hits, Her Pokemon has the ability Anger point, and one of the Wing attacks activated it. but Nemona noticed that Fearow’s criticals hit harder than usual, Then she remembered Fearows can have the ability, Sniper! Enhancing the damage of Critical hits!

“Feeeaar!aaah” Fearow was knocked across the field. It looks like this is the end for him, but no! “Fearow!” Fearow let out an angry cry, he looked at Ash for a moment, then at his enemy. Ash knew what Fearow wanted to do.

On Nemoma’s end, she was impressed! Fearow took a lot of punishment from the first round against Talonflame, then took a direct hit from Tauro’s Double Edge! She was readying herself for whatever moves Ash and Fearow were gonna pull! “FEAROW DRILL RUN!” Nemona heard her opponent yell. “IRON HEAD!” Nemona yelled! 

“Feaaaa rooow!” Tauuu roooos!” Both Pokemon charged at each other. Fearwong spun rapidly, while Taurus charged head-first against Fearow with metal scales forming on his head.  *Clang* The clash of the two attacks made a dusk cloud when it cleared…

*Bzzzing!* “Both Pokemon are unable to battle” The Rotom phones announced. Both Trainers recall their fallen Pokemon.

Nemona looked at the Pokemon in her hand shocked at the results. She softly smiles. “You did your best, and it was amazing. Rest up, Tauros, you’ve earned it.”

Ash on the other looked at his Pokeball with an awkward expression. He and Fearow have a complicated relationship. “If it means anything to you, you did an amazing job Fearow.” Ash praised his Pokemon. 

Nemona is down to her last. She adjusts her bracer a little, She sends in her final Pokemon. "Let’s go Pawmot!”

“Pawmot!” The Hands-on Pokemon came out of the Pokeball with his arms raised up and ready for battle! Looking around a bit Pawmot saw a certain Pokemon on the sidelines. “Paw paw pawmot!” Pawmot called out and waved at Pawmi.

“Paw mi mi mi!” Pawmi returned the gesture. He was so excited to see the other Pokemon.

“Hey, Nemona. Do Pawmi and Pawmot know each other? They look really happy to see each other.”

Nemona smiles.”They’re father and son. Pawmi gets excited when he sees his dad in battle.” She Explains

“Well now, why don’t we give Pawmi a good show.” Ash has the perfect Pokemon in mind for this battle.”GO Primeape!”

“APE!” The big monkey Pokemon thumped his chest as he was released.

The combatants stared at each other, waiting for one to make the first move. They felt the wind die down, Tailwind effects finally wearing off. ‘Wonder if Pawmot changed from Pawmi when they evolved. Well, time to find out!’ Ash thought. ‘Primeape, Big Monkey Pokemon. Pure fighting type. Possible abilities are Vital spirit, Anger point, or Defiant.’ Nemona goes over facts about Primeapes, remembering the battles she watched of high-level trainers with Primeapes, the most prominent Primeape example she can think of off the top of her head is Bruno of Kanto-Johto Elite 4’s Primeape. She’s facing the World Monarch's Primeape, and If it’s anything like his Fearow she’s in for a tough fight!

“Primeape! Ice punch. quick jabs!” Ash yelled. He’s taking the initiative this time! 

“Prime!” Primeape dashes at his opponent. Both his fists grew colder and frost formed on them.

“Counter it with Arm thrust!” Nemona yelled.

“PAW!” “PRIME” “PAW!” “PRIME” “PAW!” “PRIME” The two Pokemon were locked in melee. Primeape trying to get a hit in. While Pawmot blocked and deflected the Ice punches. The two Pokemon looked equal in skill.

Ash got an idea. “Grab Powmot’s hands and raise them up! 

“Ape ape.” Primeape did just that. “Paw.” Pawmot cried out a little, Primeape’s grip coupled with the cold from the Ice punch caused a little discomfort, but Nemona and Pomot needed to think quickly because a little discomfort would be the least of their worries.

Ash smiles, as his play is working out! “PRIMEAPE MEGA KICK!”

Primeape heard the command and readied up his left leg for a Mega kick.

“PAWMOT JUMP! Nemona yelled! Just in time before Mega kick hit, Powmot got out of the way.

“Aaape.” The miss with Mega kick threw Primeape off balance.

Nemona sees her chance. “Powmot throw Primeape off with Double shock!” 

Pawmot was at the height of his jump, he pulled hard to get Primeape in front of him. Pawmon sent strong electrical currents to his hands. “Ape!” The shocks made Primeape let go of Pawmot’s hands, now he gives it to Primeape! The full power of His Double shock!  “PRIIMEEE!” Primeape was knocked back and landed flat on his back. With some breathing room, Nemoma pulls out her Tera orb and activates it! 

A light engulfs Powmot for a second when it faded Pawmot looks like a crystal sculpture, with an old school lightbulb hat?! When Ash read about Terastallization, the article he read didn’t have pictures, Just descriptions. It brought back memories of Sunburst Island, Mateo, and the Crystal Onix. Seeing Terastallization in action was kinda underwhelming, and the ‘hat’ kinda looked silly. While Terastallization isn’t as flashy looking as Mega Evolution, Z Moves, or Gigantamax, looks aren’t everything, it’s the usability of it! Terastallization is certainly useful, changing Pokemon types on the fly but still keeping the advantages of their base type, or powering up their attacks if their Tera type is the same as their base types.

‘light bulb hat, Pawmot’s Tera type must be electric. They’re powered up now. And the move she used, Double Shock, looked really powerful. And now it’s even more powered up with Tera Electric. Gotta be careful. Thought Ash. “Primeape Mega kick, again. But jump up and aim low!” Ash commands!

“Ape!” Primeape complied. He has a good idea of what his trainer has planned. He jumps and aims at Pawmot.

Both Pomot and Nemona saw the attack coming. Pawmot didn’t need to be warned, he dodged on his own. But the reasons for the maneuver became apparent, a large dust cloud formed and covered the area. “Pawmot be careful and listen for Primeape!” Nemona warned her Pokemon.

“Paw!” Pawmot is on high alert, ready to attack at a moment's notice. Pawmot hears Primeape running around in the cloud, he can’t pinpoint Primeape down. As the dust cloud begins to dissipate. “Mega kick!” Nemona and Pawmot heard Ash yell.

“PRIME!” Primeape came out of the dust cloud in front of Pawmot!

“Counter it with Double shock!”

“PAAAAW” ‘AAAAPPEE!” Pawmot caught Primeape’s leg. The two kept the pressure up. Primeape was the one to relent.

“Follow up with Close combat!” Seeing Primeape falter, this was a great opportunity to strike!

“Paw paw paw pawmot!” Pawmot unleashed a flurry of blows on Primeape.

“Ape!” Primeape did his best to defend against Pawmot. Ash was waiting for an opening. Close Combat leaves the user vulnerable when an opening appears they’ll seize it!

“PRIMEAPE SEISMIC TOSS!” Pawmot slowed down a bit, that’s the Opening Ash was waiting for!

“Paw?! PAAAAW!” Primeape grabbed Pawmot’s wrist and jumped up in the air! “Paaaaaaaaw!” “RPIIIMEAPPPEE!” Primeape spins Pawmot around rabidly, after a couple of spins, Primeape tossed Pawmot to the ground. Pawmot landed with a *Thud*

“Paaaaw.” Pawmot wasn’t out of the game yet! “TERA BLAST PRIMEAPE OUT OF THE SKY!” Nemona yelled. “PAWMOT!” Pawmot gathers energy in his hands and shoots a large jagged ball of electricity!

“Punch throw it with RAGE FIST!” Ash shouted. Primeape’s Training with Anthony helped him master the Elemental punches. But when Ash took too long to pick up Primeape, and he saw Ash become the World Monarch, traveling around the world taking on many strong challengers. A fire of pure rage buried within Primeape, and that rage was the catalyst for him learning Rage Fist.  “PRIMEAPE!” Primeape punched through the Tera blast, the damage only straightening Rage Fist!

*Ka-Boom* “Paaaa!” Rage Fist hit Pawmot square in the face. Pawmot was down for the count. “A-a apee.” Primeape collapsed too!

*BZZZING* “ Both Pokemon are unable to battle, but Champion Nemona has no Pokemon left. The winner is Champion Ash!.” The Rotom phones gave their verdict! Both Phones floated back to their owners. The Trainers recalled their fallen Pokemon. “I hope you enjoyed your first Champion-level battle, Primeape.” Ash said with a smile. Nemona just silently smiled at her Pokeball and walked over to Ash.

Ash ran to Nemona, meeting her halfway. “That was an amazing battle,” Ash said as he extended his arm for a handshake. But Neomona’s head was down, her hair covered her face, and she looked sad? ‘Oh, no! Did I go too far?! Was she okay?” Ash nervously thought.

Before Ash could say another word, Nemona grabbed his hand with both of hers and shook vigorously! “THAT BATTLE WAS AMAZING!!! I HAVEN’T FELT A RUSH LIKE THAT IN A WHILE!” Nemona was smiling wildly, and then Nemona had a shocked expression. She quickly let go of Ash’s hand. “Lo lamento! Lo lamento! Lo lamento!.''Ash knows a bit of Paldean Nemona is apologizing profusely. “I acted so unprofessionally-”

“Nemona stop.” Ash cuts Nemona off, but couldn’t help but smile at her nervousness. “It's okay. Again, not too big on formalities. Plus, I prefer you just act like you, just relax and be yourself. And I had a great time battling you too!” he said with a laidback smile. 

Nemona was still flustered and embarrassed about her outburst. “Ah. Si!” Was all she could say.

Pikachu, Cyclizar, Quaxly, Pawmi, and Toedscool watch the battles unfold! The show of strength, power, and skill, amazed most of them. Pikachu had a little laugh at his friend’s shocked faces. For Toedscool seeing the power pm display changed something within him. He had always been a scaredy cat, always running at the first sight of trouble, barely scraping by thanks to his cowardice. Toedscool finally caught a lucky break when he ran into Ash, who saved him and then gave him a safe place to live and food! At first, Toedscool wasn’t sure about the training, but he met Ash’s other Pokemon, they were nice, but the Pokemon that saved him, Primeape, was kinda of scary, but after talking to him, he found him nice as well, he just looked really intense and scary. When they started training the others encouraged and helped him, they showed off their attacks to him, they looked really powerful. Now Toedscool knows they were holding back when they showed off during training! Seeing the full might of Fearow and Primeape was awe-inspiring. Toedscool begins to think, could he be as powerful as them, under Ash? 

Ash and Nemona walked over to the spot where their other Pokemon were watching. Pikachu congratulated Ash on the win, while Toedscool and Cyclizar looked at him with awe. Nemona’s Pokemon ran to her worried. It was the time Quaxly saw an intense battle, he was worried for his Trainer, while Pawmi was worried about his dad, it was the first time he saw his father lose, and Nemona reassured them everything was okay.

“Mr.Ketchum. What would have been your third Pokemon if the battle continued?” Nemona was curious, was it Pikachu, his legendary ace, or did he have another Pokemon on him?

“Oh, Bulbasaur.” Ash answered

“Bulbasaur? Bulbasaur! The Bulbasaur you used during the world tournament, the Bulbasaur you used to beat Champion Lance’s Shiny Gyarados!” Nemona excitedly asked!

Ash smiles. “The one and only. Wanna meet him? And, hey why not heal up our Pokemon so they can talk and meet?” Ash suggested

"Si! That’s a wonderful idea!”

The two trainers fed revives to their fainted Pokemon and tried to treat their injuries to the best of their abilities. They said to their Pokemon to talk and get to know each other. Everybody was on board except Fearow, who just said “Fe.” And flu to a nearby ridge. “Ah, he he. Don’t take it personally, guys. Fearow isn’t the affectionate type.” Ash said. The others were getting along great. Pawmot and Primeape shaking hands showing there were no hard feelings. Pawmi is happy to see his dad okay. 

“Hey Nemona, can I scan your Pokemon?”

“No Problem Mr. Ketchum.”

With the go-ahead, Ash pulls out his phone and scans the black Taurus and Pawmot.

[Taurus. (Paldean variant.) Wild Bull Pokemon. This Pokémon has a muscular body and excels at close-quarters combat. It uses its short horns to strike the opponent’s weak spots. This kind of Tauros, known as the Combat Breed, is distinguished by its thick, powerful muscles and its fierce disposition.]

[Pawmot. Hands-on Pokemon. This Pokémon normally is slow to react, but once it enters battle, it will strike down its enemies with lightning-fast movements. Pawmot’s fluffy fur acts as a battery. It can store the same amount of electricity as an electric car.]

“Woah. Paldea Tauros is a pure fighting type, and it still did great against Fearow. And Pawmi evolves into Electric-fighting, I think it’s the first one I've seen that combo.” 

Ash was now getting to know Nemona’s Pokemon, and Nemona was doing the same thing with his Pokemon. Ash was casual and friendly in his interactions with Nemona’s Pokemon, saying hello, introducing himself, and petting them. Nemona on the other hand was ecstatic to meet the Pokemon of the World Monarch, sure Only Bulbasaur and Pikachu were famous ones, while Primeape and Fearow hadn’t had any media exposure or used in any major battles yet, but Nemona just fought them, they are truly Pokemon of a Champion. When Nemona went over to greet Toedscool, she had a softer approach when She interacted with the Woodear Pokemon, did Nemona figure out that Toedsool had a skittish demeanor? Ash was observing Nemona, then he felt something gooey looking down his hand was in Quaxly’s ‘Hair?!’

“QUA QUA QUAXLY!” Quaxly quickly removed Ash’s hand away from his “hair,” and tried to “style it back to the way it was before.

“Ah! I’m so Sorry Quaxly. I didn’t know that would happen.” Ash apologies to the Duckling Pokemon

“Qua. Quax” Looks like he accepted the apology.

Ash smiles at him. “Hey. Mind If I scan you?” He asked the Pokemon

“Quaxly.” he agreed.

[Quaxly. Duckling This Pokémon migrated to Paldea from distant lands long ago. The gel secreted by its feathers repels water and grime. Its strong legs let it easily swim around in even fast-flowing rivers. It likes to keep things tidy and is prone to overthinking things.]

As the phone reads out the Pokedex entry, Ash knows what the goo is. He has a laugh to himself seeing Quaxly style his ‘hair’ back the way it was.

It was now getting dark. The two champions recalled their Pokemon, and are now heading back to Mesagoza, a quick stop at the Pokemon center, then back to the academy. Ash remembers the question she wants to ask Nemona.

“Hey, Nemona. Can I ask you a question?” Ash asked

“Sure, Mr.Ketchum. Ask away.” Nemona replied

“I don’t mean to sound rude, and it’s not like I don’t want you as a student. It’s just strange you’re attending a class for beginners. You’re already a champion and you can understand and take care of your Pokemon really well.” Ash said.

“Ah. It’s no problem, Mr.Ketchum.” Nemona was silent for a moment, she had a smile on her face. “I want to have a full school experience. Do you already know about the controversy about the school?” Nemona looks at Ash, he nods along with Pikachu, they already know about it. “Well, my school year got cut short due to the shutdown. It gave me more time to focus on the League challenge, but I felt like I missed something.” Nemona exhales a bit, looking a bit sad. “And maybe make some friends.'' She has a kind of sad tone to her now.

“Nemona… Are you okay " "Pikachu.?” Both of them worry about her a bit.

“Ah. Sorry, I have friends… Now! I mean is.” Nemona was frantic again “Ahem!’ She clears her throat and composes herself. “Can I ask you my own question, Mr. Ketchum?”  Nemona asked

“Sure.” “Pika!” If it helps Nemona express herself better, they’re up for it.

“Thank you.” she said with a soft smile. “When you became a Champion, people started to treat you differently. They think you are on a separate level from them.” Nemona said with a flat tone, Ash could tell she was holding back a bit of frustration.

“Ah-ha ha.” Ash laughed a little. “Yeah. I know the feeling. People being too nervous around you, having preconceived notions about who you are. Yep. Been there!” Pi pikachu!” Both Pokemon and Trainer know the feeling. “And I’m also gonna guess when you became champion, it was hard to find challenges outside of the Elite 4 and high-level trainers?”

Nemona nods at them. “How did you deal with it?”

“For the first one. My journey took me to many different places, there I befriended many people and Pokemon from so many different walks of life, they had known me before I got famous.” Ash smiles at the many friends he has made. “When I meet them again, for a moment they thought I’d change, with being a Champion, and World Monarch, but when they talked to me for a bit, they see I’m still the same Ash they met years ago, a lot of people know the real me, the only difference now is my height! Oh, and Pikachue lost a couple of pounds.” Ash snickered at the dig to his partner, even Nemona couldn’t help but chuckle too. “Pika!” Pikachu took a little office to that, he wasn’t that fat in the early days, right? “As for the boredom problem, Other champions have hobbies and jobs besides their Champion duties to keep them occupied. For example, Steven is also a geologist and helps run his family's company. Wallace a Pokemon Coordinator. Cynthia wants to be a Historian. Lance runs the G-men. Only me and Iris had trouble dealing with boredom. till now. Yes, that's Why I’m teaching! And before you ask, no. This wasn’t a sphere-of-the-moment decision. I thought long and hard about the offer before accepting it. I want to help the next batch of trainers succeed.” Ash explained

Nemona contemplated his words for a moment. Then she smiles. ”Thank you. Mr.Ketchum.” Nemona takes a deep breath. “I haven’t had many friends for most of my life, this was due to me primarily being home-schooled. After talking things out with my parents, they finally sent me to Uva Naranja Academy. I had fun with the brief school year, and almost made friends too, but when I became a Champion and school started back up, I tried to reconnect with the other students,  but now they treated me differently, they were still nice, but they distanced themselves from me. And at the start, some wanted to challenge me, but that quickly stopped.” Nemona sadly. “But then a new family moved to my neighborhood. They have fraternal twins that I quickly befriended! And when they found I was I Champion, they acted a bit off, it was like they were walking on eggshells around me, I was scared they would think I was above them! But a day later they went back to normal in how they acted around me. It made me curious about their sudden turnaround, so I asked them.”  Nemona now has a smile on her face. “You’re not gonna believe this! Their old neighborhood in Galar was Postwick!” That shocked Ash a bit! So did the twins know Leon? ”Oh, ho ho ho. I see that look. No, it isn’t Leon. The twins befriended some older kids, they were really close to one of them, and they gave her the nickname Big-sis. That Big-sis is Gloria Shields! The current Champion of Galar! They told me the story of how they were so scared about their Big-sis changing when she first became a Champion, but their fears and worries were unfounded, Gloria came back, she reassured them she was still the same, and they had a fun day playing with her, and her Pokemon. They were 8 at the time. As to why they were so nervous around me. They didn't know how to act around a Champion till they remembered their Big-sis was also a Champion! They kept forging she was one thanks to how causal Gloria was with them, so they said.”  Ash was silent for a moment. “ I couldn’t believe what they were saying, not that I was calling them lairs, but they have proof. A group photo of a party celebrating Gloria’s victory! They were there with friends and family, including now-former champion Leon and his little brother Hop! Oh, I almost forgot to tell you their names, their names are Florian and Juliana Goodwin! They're my first real first. And I want to help them to be their very best! They made a promise to Gloria before moving, they promised to one day face her in a Pokemon battle!”

Ash and Pikachu think about what Nemona said. How she didn’t have any friends growing up, to nobody taking the time to get to know the real her. Her friendship with the twins and helping them out with their promise. Ash thinks about what the twins wrote about themselves, Julianna being the more confident one, while Florian is unsure of himself. He smiles. “Well, now. Do you need some help?” Ash asked Nemona. She had a confused look on her face when Ash said that to her. “Help with the twins keeping their Promise! I read their induction papers. Julian has the drive and spirit, all she needs is somebody to help shape that passion. While Florian is unsure about himself and his abilities. They're gonna be a handful, so let’s do our best to help them!”

Nemona had a manic look in her eye! Two Champions coaching the twins! They’ll be Champions in no time! “¡Démoslo todo!”

With that roaring declaration, the sun sets on Ash’s expletive first day as a teacher!