“Greetings, students, trainers, faculty, and honored guests!”

  The voice echoed through the grand hall of the Pokémon Battle Academy, drawing the attention of every student packed shoulder to shoulder beneath the massive banners of the school’s legendary alumni.

  “For those of you who don’t know me,” the speaker continued with a wide grin, “I’m Principal Fireheart—master trainer extraordinaire—and I welcome you to the Pokémon Battle Academy, where learning and battling go hand in hand!”

  The principal stood tall at the podium, his crimson cape fluttering slightly from the breeze of the hall’s open skylights. The gleam of his Blastoise-shaped belt buckle caught the light as he spread his arms theatrically, clearly enjoying the spotlight.

  “To our returning students, welcome back—you’ve already proven you have the spirit of champions. And to our first-years, welcome to the beginning of your greatest adventure. I promise you, this place will change your lives.”

  A ripple of excitement buzzed through the crowd.

  “At this academy, we don’t just train Pokémon—we shape future champions, researchers, gym leaders, and legends. Here, we believe in pushing limits, forming bonds, and discovering who you are as a trainer. And sure, you’ll hit some bumps along the way, but that’s how we grow.”

  He paused for dramatic effect.

  “Our faculty are among the best in the world—veteran trainers, retired professionals, even former Gym Leaders. They’re here to pass down not just their knowledge, but their passion.”

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  He leaned forward, smirking.

  “And if anyone knows what it takes to be a great trainer, it's me. Just ask my Blastoise—though fair warning, he tends to brag.”

  A few chuckles broke out in the crowd.

  Fireheart’s tone softened.

  “Remember: your journey is your own. Some of you are here to prepare for the league circuit once you turn fifteen. Others are aiming for competitive careers, or even spots in the international tournaments. Whatever your goal—start with this: have fun. Train hard. Make friends. Challenge rivals. And above all, believe in your Pokémon.”

  He raised a fist into the air.

  “Now let’s make this year unforgettable!”

  The hall erupted into applause. I clapped along, though my thoughts were already drifting inward.

  My name is Gabriel, and today marks the first step toward everything I've ever wanted.

  I stood among nearly a hundred other first-year students in the crowd, all wearing the same crisp academy-issued uniforms, all here for the same reason. Some faces were nervous, others cocky. Most were strangers. At twelve years old, we were the youngest students accepted by the academy—three years to train, study, and grow before we’d be allowed to begin our official journeys at fifteen. That’s when we’d be eligible to compete in the league circuit, to chase badges and maybe—just maybe—become champions.

  But that day was still far off.

  For now, this was our world: the Pokémon Battle Academy. One of the top three trainer schools on the planet. Getting accepted here wasn’t just an honor—it was a promise. A promise that we had potential. That we could become more.

  I took a slow breath, the weight of the moment finally sinking in. Here I am, a kid from a tiny village no one’s heard of, standing in the main hall of the most prestigious academy in the region. No friends. No allies. Just me, my dreams, and whatever came next.

  I glanced around at the others—some confident, some already whispering plans, others eyeing each other with competitive fire. Possible friends… but more likely, rivals.

  This is a competitive world. A brutal one.

  I clenched my fist.

  Only the top-ranked student earns a guaranteed slot in the regional Rookie Conference—no gym badges required. That spot is mine.

  No exceptions. No excuses.

  I’m going to be the best student of my generation. No matter what it takes.