The courtyard buzzed with chatter as parents said their farewells and students fidgeted with anticipation. Ishi's heart raced as he clutched Perseus's Pokéball tightly, feeling the comforting presence of his Froakie resting on his shoulder.
The entrance ceremony began with the headmaster, an older man with a stoic expression and a reputation for strict discipline, stepping up to a podium. His voice droned on in a monotonous tone, reciting the academy's history and the importance of their training. Ishi struggled to keep his eyes open, glancing over at Senpei and Ivy who were equally struggling to stay awake. ‘Screw this, Status.’
Name:
Will Ranger/Ishi Sukauto
Level:
9
3160/14400 Exp
Class:
Kid Genin
Sub-Class:
N/A
Strength:
19->(19.76)
Dexterity:
19->(19.76)
Constitution:
9->(9.36)
Aura:
7->(7.28)
Mana:
N/A
Abilities:
Appraisal - Multilingual - Poketory
Available Points:
27
‘Heh, this 4% increase in stats is really boosting my power. And the fact that it’ll be exponential as I get stronger, Oh system if I could kiss you I would.’ shaking his head at that thought he refocused on the speech that was apparently coming to an end finally.
"And so, as you embark on this journey, remember that the path of the ninja is one of perseverance, discipline, and unwavering loyalty to our village," the headmaster concluded, his voice finally trailing off.
A collective sigh of relief could be heard among the students as the speech ended. The headmaster's assistant then stepped forward with a list, ready to announce the class assignments.
"You will now be sorted into your respective classes," she announced, her voice carrying far more energy than the headmaster's. "When I call your name, please step forward." ‘Haa, finally took them long enough,’ he sighed as he listened, waiting for his name to be called.
The sorting began, with names being called one by one. Ishi's mind wandered, thinking about the training they would put them through, and how much he could learn here and not have to be privately tutored anymore. Finally, his attention snapped back as he heard a familiar name.
"Ishi Sukauto," the assistant called. "Advanced Class."
His heart leapt with excitement as he stepped forward, feeling the eyes of his peers on him. He was quickly joined by Senpei and Ivy, who were also assigned to the advanced class. They exchanged excited glances, knowing they would face the challenges of the academy together.
The hallways of the academy were lined with wooden panelling and adorned with scrolls depicting legendary ninjas and their Pokémon. Torches mounted on the walls provided a warm, flickering light that contrasted with the cool, polished stone floors. The walls echoed with the footsteps and hushed conversations of students, creating an atmosphere of focused energy.
***
The advanced class gathered in their designated classroom, a spacious room with tatami mats and wooden training dummies lining the walls. The sensei, a seasoned ninja named Arata Monji, stood at the front, his presence commanding respect. ‘Damn his presence is a similar level to dad’s, though he is definitely weaker, he has to be at least an Elite Chunin or a low level Jonin.’ He thought, rather impressed.
The ceiling was high, with wooden beams crisscrossing overhead, and windows on one side of the room let in ample natural light. The other walls were adorned with charts of Pokémon types, battle strategies, and historical events, serving as constant reminders of the knowledge they were there to gain.
Ishi and his classmates settled into their new environment, the grandeur of the Ninja Academy becoming increasingly apparent. The interior of the academy was a seamless blend of ancient tradition and modern functionality, designed to cater to the diverse needs of its students and their Pokémon partners.
"Welcome to the advanced class," Arata began, his voice firm and welcoming. "You have been chosen for this class because of your potential and dedication. We will push you to your limits, but remember, it is through hardship that you will grow stronger."
He gestured to the students. "Now, let's start with introductions. Tell us your name, your partner Pokémon, and your dreams and ambitions."
One by one, the students introduced themselves. There was a mix of nervousness and pride as they spoke about their aspirations. Some wanted to become elite Jonin, others aimed to master specific ninja techniques, and a few had dreams of exploring the world beyond the village.
A boy with sharp eyes and a confident demeanour stepped forward first. "My name is Ryota," he said. "My partner is Pawniard. I want to become a powerful ninja like my grandfather, and follow in his footsteps and become one of the village elders."
Next was a girl with short, spiky hair and a mischievous glint in her eye. "I'm Ayame, and this is my partner, Fletchling. My dream is to master the art of aerial combat and become the best flyer in the village.
A serious-looking boy with glasses adjusted them nervously before speaking. "I'm Kenta. My partner is a Honedge. I aim to become a weapons master and protect our village from any threats."
Then, a boy with a calculating gaze and an air of mystery introduced himself. "My name is Shigeru," he said smoothly. "This is my partner, Espurr." Unbeknownst to the others, Shigeru was the spy planted by Kagetomo and was assigned to both get first in the class and make detailed reports that would be ferried back to the leader of the Ninja Corps. "My goal is to uncover the deepest secrets of ninja techniques and surpass all expectations."
‘Espurr huh, I’d better figure a way to protect my mind so that what happened with those Vivillon doesn’t happen again with this psychic, luckily it’s still young so I have a bit of time until it’ll be powerful enough.’ Ishi thought to himself after eyeing the male Espurr as it stuck to the boy's legs. ‘I don’t like that kid's aura, his emotions are too muted,’ he squinted at him trying to discern more but there seemed to be something twisted muting his aura, his Espurr on the other hand radiated concern. He stopped staring when the boy turned around and tilted his head back at him with a questioning stare. ‘Creepy,’ he thought but just smiled and gave a small wave to the boy.
A girl with a gentle smile and a calm aura stepped forward. "I'm Haruka, and this is my partner, Spritzee. I want to become a healer and use my skills to help our village and its Pokémon."
A case of literary theft: this tale is not rightfully on Amazon; if you see it, report the violation.
Following her was a tall, athletic boy with an easygoing grin. "Name's Raion. My partner is Litleo. We're going to become the strongest duo and protect our village from any danger."
Last was a petite girl with a fierce determination in her eyes. "I'm Midori, and this is my partner, Zubat. My dream is to explore the world and discover new Pokémon and techniques to bring back to our village."
Finally, it was Ishi's turn. He stood up, his heart calm in his chest. "My name is Ishi Sukauto," he began, holding up Perseus's Pokéball. "This is my partner, Perseus, and as you can see he’s a Froakie. My dream is to become a great ninja and Pokémon trainer, to travel the world, and to gather knowledge and skills that will help me protect our village and make it stronger." Once he had introduced himself and Perseus, he noticed the little pokemon getting a bit tired and uncomfortable with the stares so decided to return him to get some rest.
Senpei followed, his usual enthusiasm completely untempered by the seriousness of the moment. "I'm Senpei Takahiro, and my partner is also a Froakie but mine is way cooler than Ishi’s!” ‘Uh huh,’ Ishi thought as he scoffed at that statement ‘Perseus is obviously better, I mean just look at his adorable face!’ He then proceeded to pinch his partners cheeks much to perseus’s chagrin. “I want to become strong enough to stand shoulder to shoulder with my brothers and defend our village from any threats."
Ivy was next, her voice steady and determined. "I'm Ivy Shinobu, and my partner is Snivy. My goal is to explore the world and bring back knowledge and Pokémon that will help our village thrive. I want to find new ways to protect and improve our home."
Their new sensei nodded approvingly. "Well said. Now, let's move on to the lesson schedule."
***
Arata then outlined the daily schedule for the advanced class. "In the mornings, you will have self-study sessions. This time is for you to explore topics that interest you and ask questions of any of the sensei’s present, or seek further knowledge by using the library. Use this time wisely to deepen your knowledge." ‘Awesome, I have a tonne of shtuff I need to look up in the library to compound my medical knowledge I learnt from Mrs. Tanoshi.’
From what he’d heard from his mum, the academy's library was a treasure trove of knowledge, containing ancient scrolls, modern books, and resources on a vast array of subjects. Students could study battle strategies, Pokémon care, ninja techniques, and the history of their village. The library was a quiet, contemplative space, with large windows that let in natural light and provided a serene view of the village.
"In the afternoons, we focus on physical training, sparring, and practising ninja techniques. You will learn the village's basic close combat techniques and work on perfecting your ninja skills. Physical fitness and combat proficiency are crucial for any ninja." ‘Come to me my stat points,’ he grinned at the prospect of getting stronger.
He then pointed to the facility adjacent to the classroom, which was a large training hall. This expansive area was equipped with various apparatuses for physical conditioning and martial arts training. There were punching bags, climbing ropes, balance beams, and obstacle courses designed to test agility, strength, and endurance. Along one wall, there were rows of targets for both pokemon who need to practise their accuracy and for students to begin practising their shuriken throwing, while another section was dedicated to sparring mats for hand-to-hand combat training.
Within this training hall, boasted an impressive array of Pokémon battlefields, each tailored to different type advantages or disadvantages. These battlefields were essential for training students to adapt to various combat environments and strategies. Along with their pokemon battling under differing environments.
The Rock Battlefield was an area filled with large boulders and rocky outcrops, providing ample cover and high ground. It was perfect for practising against Rock and ground-type Pokémon and learning to navigate rough terrain.
Alongside that was the Water Battlefield which consisted of a large pool of water, with floating platforms and varying depths. It was ideal for Water-type Pokémon and for teaching students how to fight in and around water.
Then there was the Grass Battlefield. This lush area was covered in tall grass, bushes, and trees, offering plenty of hiding spots and natural obstacles. It was suited for almost any type of pokémon, except those that needed water in order to breathe. This one was mostly used for manoeuvring tactics training, and was the most in demand as it could be used by most of the pokemon situated in the village.
Next to that was the Forest Battlefield, it was daily similar to the Grass battlefield but denser, this area mimicked a forest environment with thick underbrush and towering trees. It was designed for Bug and Grass-type Pokémon, and for focusing on agility and evasion.
Finally there was the Desert Battlefield. This battlefield featured sandy dunes, sparse vegetation, and intense sunlight that was present due to one of the groundskeepers pokemon employing a near constant sunny day over the battlefield. It was perfect for Fire-type Pokémon, and for teaching students to cope with extreme conditions and limited resources.
There was no Ice battlefield though, which Ishi found strange considering where the village was located, but he didn’t think much of it as he was too excited with all the new and shiny tools he would now have access to on a near daily schedule.
"After a break, we will cover the history and theology of the village, as well as other academic subjects like maths, writing, and strategy. A well-rounded education is essential for potential ninja’s such as yourselves."
The academy had a large cafeteria where students could enjoy meals together. The food served was nutritious and catered to the dietary needs of both humans and Pokémon. Nearby, there were recreational areas where students could relax, socialise, and unwind during their breaks in training and classes. These spaces included lounges with comfortable seating, board game rooms, and outdoor patio with a beautiful view of the Village.
The students listened attentively, taking in the rigorous schedule that lay ahead. Ishi felt a mix of excitement and determination. The path would be challenging, but he was ready to face it with Perseus by his side.
As the first day at the academy began, Ishi and his friends knew that their journey had only just started. Together, they would navigate the trials and tribulations of ninja training, forging bonds and honing their skills, all while the shadows of unseen threats loomed ever closer.
***
After outlining the daily schedule, Sensei Arata Monji encouraged the students to ask any questions they might have. Eager to make the most of their time in the academy, Ishi and his classmates quickly seized the opportunity.
Ryota raised his hand first. "Sensei Monji, what kind of Pokémon do you have? And how strong is it?"
Sensei Monji smiled. "I have Machamp as my partner. We've been through many battles together, and I can assure you, he's quite strong. Machamp is adept at close combat and less so with special attacks, making him a formidable ally but not particularly versatile."
Ayame leaned forward, her eyes sparkling with curiosity. "How can we make our Pokémon stronger? Are there specific techniques or training methods we should follow?"
Sensei Monji nodded. "Training your Pokémon involves a combination of physical exercise, battle experience, and building a strong bond with them. You should also focus on teaching them techniques that complement their natural abilities. For example, Fletchling can excel in aerial manoeuvres and speed-based attacks."
Kenta adjusted his glasses. "Sensei, can you tell us more about the hierarchy in the class and the academy? How do we advance?"
Sensei Monji explained, "In the academy, students are grouped into different classes based on their skills and potential. The advanced class, which you're all in, is designed to push you harder and prepare you for greater challenges. As you progress, you'll have opportunities to participate in ranking exams to advance from Genin to Chunin, and eventually you’ll take on various missions or be allowed to take a journey outside the village and gain the right to become a Jonin. Your performance in these exams and your overall growth will determine your advancement."
Shigeru, asked a seemingly innocent question. "Sensei, are there any particular strategies you recommend for uncovering the weaknesses of opponents in battle?"
Sensei Monji's eyes narrowed slightly, but he answered calmly. "Understanding your opponent's strengths and weaknesses is crucial. Observe their movements, attacks, and defensive strategies closely. Every Pokémon and ninja has a unique style, and finding the right moment to exploit a weakness can turn the tide of battle in your favour."
Haruka, with her gentle demeanour, asked, "Sensei, what is the best way to heal our Pokémon if they get injured during training or battles?"
Sensei Monji replied, "Healing your Pokémon is vital. You should learn about various medicinal herbs and how to use them to treat different injuries. Additionally, there are specific techniques and moves, like Heal Pulse, that certain Pokémon can learn to assist with healing. For extremely serious injuries incurred for you and your pokemon you should take them to the Academies Medical Centre "
The academy housed, state-of-the-art medical centre, was staffed by skilled medics and equipped with ancient Ninja technology. The centre was divided into two sections: one for humans and one for Pokémon. The human section had examination rooms, first aid stations, and recovery beds. The Pokémon section featured specialised equipment for treating various Pokémon injuries, from minor cuts and bruises to more severe conditions. There were also several tanks and incubators for Pokémon, ensuring all partners received the best care possible.
Raion raised his hand next. "Sensei Monji, how do we balance physical training with our academic studies? It seems like there's a lot to learn, and I don’t do so good with academics."
Sensei Monji nodded. "Balance is key. While physical training is crucial for a ninja, so is a well-rounded education. Use your self-study time effectively to focus on your academic subjects. Prioritise your tasks and manage your time wisely. Remember, a sharp mind is just as important as a strong body."
Midori, the petite girl with Zubat, asked, "Sensei, what role does teamwork play in our training? How important is it for us to work together? Or can we just do things ourselves and not have to rely on anyone with a lower status." ‘Wow, stuck up much’ Ishi thought frowning at the girl he’d initially had a favourable impression of.
Sensei Monji smiled thinly. "Teamwork is essential. As ninjas, you'll often work in teams, and understanding how to cooperate and support each other is crucial. You'll learn to complement each other's strengths and cover for each other's weaknesses. Trust and communication are the foundations of any successful team." That earned a scoff from Midori, “And Midori you will respect your fellow classmates and the other students in this academy!” At that Midori rolled her eyes but gave a noncommittal nod.
Finally, it was Ishi's turn. He had been thinking carefully about his question. "Sensei Monji, how can we best strengthen the bond with our Pokémon partners? Is there anything special we should do?"
Sensei Monji looked at Ishi with approval. "Building a strong bond with your Pokémon involves spending time with them, understanding their needs, and showing them that you care. Train together, play together, and support each other in battles. A deep bond will make your partnership stronger and your Pokémon more willing to go beyond their limits for you."
The class absorbed Sensei Monji's words, their minds buzzing with new information and possibilities. The sensei had answered their questions with patience and wisdom, providing them with valuable insights into their training and future as ninjas.
As the first day at the academy progressed, Ishi and his friends felt a renewed sense of determination. They had a long journey ahead, filled with challenges and opportunities to grow stronger. Together, they would face whatever came their way, united by their dreams and the bonds they were forging with their Pokémon partners.