Remembered I had banged this out during the hiatus and I should post it now.
The Pokémon League Around the World
Across the planet, humankind lives and works alongside Pokémon. Throughout history, different regions and cultures have interfaced with Pokémon in different ways, but the most common superstructure of human and Pokémon relations in the modern day is the Pokémon League: a hierarchical organization of elite Pokémon Trainers that bridge the relationship between state, trainers, and Pokémon. Most regions' Pokémon Leagues share common traits, whether through humanity's shared traditions like the ideal of pursuing Pokémon battling as a martial art or sport through the traditional Gym Circuit, or through structures that have evolved to suit the needs of the modern nation-region like the distributary power of a League "head of state" and their subordinates in an Elite Four and locally-operating Gym Leaders serving as the connective tissue of a region. However, every region has its own idiosyncracies, which are worth discussing individually.
The "Big Four" regions of Shinwa - Kanto, Johto, Hoenn, and Sinnoh - are all clear examples of the ancient traditions of Shinwan Pokémon Training being adapted to the modern day, although of course each has their own quirks and traditions. The most important uniting factor of these four regions is the fact that in each of the three Leagues, the Champion is the foremost authority in the League, and changes hands to "the strongest trainer". Unlike Atlantaean Leagues which favor a bicameral system, the full authority of a Shinwan League is invested in whomever most recently successfully challenged the previous Champion for their title. This, given the raw martial potential of Pokémon, leads to a relationship between the Leagues of Shinwan regions and their civil government where the League is always a holder of much of the monopoly on physical power. Hence, these regions often see the League de facto serving as a civil defense force, if not an army - a fact all the more true in the Indigo League, which has for the past 40 years been the state where the League, civil government, and military-industrial complex have been the most intertwined, all for the purpose of preserving the tense peace after the civil war of the 1980s. The Hoenn League, while not as militarized, is similarly entwined with the state due to a more recent disaster, the Magma-Aqua crisis of 2012. The current Hoenn champion, Steven Stone, has bent much of the League's power for the past decade, along with the considerable resources of his personal corporate holdings, to the safety and rebuilding of the region. Sinnoh is, by comparison to its neighbors, a peaceful region, which many attribute to the 30 year undefeated championship of Cynthia Shirona, a genius of Pokémon battling with a strong moral compass and love for her Region's cultural heritage. Others would point to more material factors like a lack of a highly militarized society or international commitments, which allowed for a splendid isolation during Cynthia's tenure that encouraged the League and civil government to work harmoniously, without giving the crisis-opportunity necessary for corrupting influences to consolidate, as Team Rocket did in the Indigo League.
One more thing worth noting about Shinwan Leagues is that when the law says that the Champion leads the League, that is in fact legally the case. An amusing intersection of Indigo civil law and sheer brilliance from a young generation of trainers in the 1990s saw two ten year olds and a fourteen year old technically earn the position, all three of them declining to take the office and instead reverting it each time to the existing Champion, Lance Blackthorn. Not every young trainer turns down the position though, as seen with Dawn Berlitz becoming Sinnoh Champion just two years ago at the young age of 22 - though she has mostly continued the policies and stability seen under her predecessor, Cynthia.
Unova, as the only region on its continent with a currently functioning League structure, is either an interesting middle ground between Shinwan and Atlantaen-style Leagues, or a pile of contradictions, depending on whom you ask. Structurally, the Unovan League is almost identical to Shinwan ones, including the proviso that defeating the Champion makes the strongest trainer the authority in the League - a structure dating back to the foundation of the Unovan republic, which looked to Shinwa for inspiration in its League specifically. However, the Great War with Orre changed a great deal about the Unovan League's actual power - mainly due to the generational damage done by that war, with the region losing 4 champions and 10 members of its Elite Four to enemy action over the course of the war. By the time of the war's end, the Unovan League was a shadow of itself, and the Republic's government and the rebuilding League quickly coming to an understanding of a formal separation of powers between the Champion and President, with the former now becoming politically agnostic by tradition, subordinate to the civil government almost to the degree that Kalos's is.
On the other side of the world, the Leagues of Atlantaea, by contrast, are quite divergent in particulars despite sharing similar roots in Atlantaea's historical context. The two most notably different Pokémon Leagues are the ones belonging to the ancient monarchies of Galar and Paldea. Both regions maintain a royal line dating back to shortly after the fall of the Classical Paldean Empire, and in both cases the monarch is supreme over both the civil government and the League (although with its own formal devolution of powers to regional leaders and legislatures in either case). Both the Galar and Paldean Leagues, unlike in Shinwa or Unova, are not unitarily run by a Champion - instead, the governmental activities of both are run by a Chairman appointed by the nation's monarch, with Paldea's also functioning officially as the region's Chancellor. The structure of each of these Leagues is distinct, with Galar's multi-tiered Gym system and monetized Gym Circuit and Conference heavily tying it to corporate interests, while Paldea's emphasis on local representation within the League and the status of the League as being led by the Emperor's hand-picked Chancellor makes it a political battleground between Paldea's ancient noble families and every other political interest group in the nation. Paldea, uniquely, also doesn't have a Champion in the same way that other Regions do, instead having a "Champion class" of trainers, emphasizing that all power is in the appointed Chairman-Chancellor, who is therefore the single most important government official aside from the monarch. Meanwhile, in the two years since the Darkest Day scandal, the subsequent arrest of the Galar League's Chairman Rose, and Queen Alicia's nationalization of the Galar League's largest financial contributor Macro Cosmos, League Champion Leon has gained significantly more influence through the chaos and is ironically closer to the position of the Paldean Chancellor than anyone to previously hold his position in Galar, at least in de facto terms.
Among all Atlantaen Leagues, it's perhaps a strange quirk of history that the least politically powerful League, and also the one closest to the Shinwan model used far overseas, is that of Kalos, the famously fractious revolutionary republic. The Kalos League is heavily curtailed by the Republic's constitution, even more so than Unova's, and Pokémon battling is an art form more valued for its prestige there, compared to lucrative corporate investment in Galar and political games in Paldea. Being the strongest trainer is a matter of celebrity anywhere, but in Kalos, that's its main appeal, with the politics of the Republic being determined formally by parliamentary parties, and informally by social movements, all of whom may or may not even bother with a stance on League activities.
Finally, this article would be remiss not to mention the most recently-formed Pokémon League, that of Alola, inaugurated in 2018 and led by the only current Champion who started her tenure under the age of 16, Selene Mizuki. Only existing for a handful of years, any deep analysis of such a League would be premature in the extreme, but Champion Selene has stated a strong intent to preserve the ancient traditions of Alola's Island Challenge alongside more internationally-recognizable concepts like the Elite Four and Conference tournaments, as well as supporting the island region's traditional government of local kahunas over any attempt at centralization.
"Keep dodging, Kotaro! Put distance—No, you need to get closer for a Karate Chop!" Despite the confusion in orders, Atticus's Croagunk leaps and contorts its body to just barely dodge another Mud Shot, interrupting their attempt to close in for an attack. The Poison-Type twirls in the air before landing feet first on the ground.
Before it could attack back, Croagunk shudders and immediately jumps again, the ground beneath them shook, then violently erupted as energy exploded outwards. Kotaro twists in the air and kicks a handful of stones towards Drilbur at high speeds, narrowly leaping away from the rest that had been thrown up by Ruby's Bulldoze. The kicked stones pelt and scratch Ruby as she braces for impact, preparing for her counterattack
"Now, Ruby!" Drilbur spits out another Mud Shot directly above the Croagunk, far enough you'd been hoping that even if Kotaro's Anticipation activated again it'd be too late. Sure enough, the Croagunks eyes widen in alarm, but with them in mid-air they're unable to maneuver or dodge away, leading to a direct hit.
The Mud Shot hits Croagunk square on the chest, sending the Poison-Type flying through the air, eventually slamming onto the arena's barrier with a harsh thud. Instructor Leaf announces that Kotaro was unable to battle anymore as Atticus recalls his Pokemon back to their Pokeball.
"Good Job, Ruby!" you yell with no small amount of pride. With her victory secured, Ruby turns to you with bright excited eyes and the largest grin she could muster. Despite the poison coursing through her, Ruby's still grinning and holding up two claws on her left hand, though her right is slightly limp. You couldn't help but smile at Ruby's sheer glee; this would mark her third win of the day.
Instructor Leaf had wanted your class to get used to battling with any new Pokemon you'd caught. And since Renne was still reluctant with battling, it was Ruby's time to shine.
As you recall her back to her Pokeball for some well earned rest, your eyes turn to look at Atticus, who briefly meets your gaze before looking away and leaving the arena's podium.
A small frown makes its way on your face. You did notice he seemed distracted during the battle but—
"Mariana! Get out of the arena! We're on a tight schedule today! Henry getting on my case…" Your thoughts were interrupted by Instructor Leaf yelling at you with her megaphone. Cheeks flushed with embarrassment for zoning out, you give a quick apology before heading down.
You pass by Manuel, who's heading up for his next match against Theodora, as you try to follow Atticus to where Wiggly and Missy had set up their small healing area in the Battle Arena's bleachers.
As you stare at him, you could tell Atticus seems distracted. His normally nimble and light-footed bearing almost appears…lethargic, if you had to put a word on it.
Thinking back to his performance last Round Robin and now this one, could he be getting discouraged due to his losses? Maybe it's time to listen to that nagging voice in the back of your head and start acting like the Class President you're supposed to be.
You pet Roland, who's wrapped around your neck sleeping, to psych yourself up, and approach Atticus who's handing Kotaro's Pokeball over to Wiggly. The Wigglytuff waves at you with a smile full of cheer as usual. It's infectious enough that you return it with one of your own.
Handing over Ruby's Pokeball, you turn towards your classmate and speak.
"H-how're you holding up, Atticus?" Could you possibly stutter more? Resisting the urge to cringe at the sound of your voice, you try to make some worry come across in your tone.
Atticus turns towards you, slightly startled, as if he wasn't expecting anyone to talk to him.
"Oh greetings, Mariana. Congratulations on your victory." As Atticus holds out one of his hands for you to shake, you take it noting that there's some firmness in his grip and that his hand had a surprising number of calluses. You also note that at least his manner of speaking hasn't changed. Though it does seem a little stilted, more so than usual.
"Thanks! It was a good match, I'm sure Ruby enjoyed it as much as I did." As if on cue, Wiggly releases your Drilbur from her Pokeball, the Ground-Type excitedly waving and saying hello to Atticus. The cute display does cause a small smile to creep up on his face which you're glad for.
"Um, I hope your losses so far don't discourage you." You try to word it in as inoffensive a way as possible, though to your surprise, Atticus just shrugs. He hands over his Croagunk's Pokeball to Missy for healing, the Ghost Type staring at the two of you in what you can only guess is exasperation.
"This one had no preconceptions of never facing defeat, but while it can be tiring, every battle is a learning experience. Especially with Class VII." The nonchalant, almost fond way Atticus speaks about it and the class tells you he's sincere, now you feel a little bad about assuming things.
"Oh, I'm sorry. But you looked like you had something on your mind and I'd assumed—" Atticus shakes his head. He's about to say something but even you can tell that he seems to be hesitating, judging whether he should go for it or not. Finally, he speaks.
"Your concern is heartening but my thoughts are preoccupied with matters outside of our class." Atticus closes his eyes while pursing his lips. For a moment, he remains quiet as if contemplating or mustering the strength to say something. You wait, quickly cottoning on that this is serious, involuntarily standing up a little straighter.
"Let's say a friend of mine…is having trouble with some other students…" he finally responds.
"Is it Mela? Is she okay?" You exclaim, shocked and worried. Mela had been a brief encounter, someone you met during your first week in Mesagoza, but they'd helped you out of the kindness of their own heart.
"I'd rather not speak...for her, I mean." You could've sworn he'd leave it at that, that you'd pushed too much, what with the finality in his tone. Except his mouth opens and closes at almost random intervals, as if he's unsure he should still say something. He blinks and, for a moment, his eyes flicker down before he adds, "But..."
Both of you had sat down at Atticus's insistence, not wanting others to hear. You remain quiet, listening intently to his words and observing the small involuntary reactions of Atticus's body language. Twiddling thumbs, tapping fingers, occasional pauses to catch his words, all minute tells that Atticus himself is likely unaware of. You're pretty sure he isn't lying, but he's hiding something. Carefully trying to omit a detail that he's hesitant to share with you in full.
It started with petty insults and words—ignorable, he claims. Which Mela did for the first few weeks, instances were apparently spread out enough that she could go through her classes. The way Atticus phrases it, though, makes you suspect the people responsible are likely from a different class from her outright. Then as the end of the month approached, there was some escalation. Missing belongings, more targeted barbs and attacks, and all in a way that could be deniable.
Then something odd happens.
Atticus is so deep in his telling that he doesn't even notice. But you're certain that some of the insults Atticus describes don't fit Mela at all, but instead are levied at someone that fit Atticus's description more.
When Atticus begins referring to the subject with them rather than she, you grow suspicious. When he begins to describe barbs and insults that could've only referred to someone in say, a special Class, insults against someone's abilities, against someone's background real or perceived, you grow tense. When his descriptions grow more strained and he hesitates more and more, the slightest shaking in his frame, you grow angry.
"That's awful! I've only met Mela once but I can't imagine why anyone would treat her like that!" You clench your fist in anger, knuckles cracking. Though you doubt you'd actually go as far as physical violence. But the indignation of some people will treat others for the most petty reasons, has you livid.
"Yes. Quite." Atticus says, nodding in response. He's stiff, almost nervous, even after he's finished speaking. Like he's realizing that he might've said too much.
But despite that, you know there's something more. Maybe you've spent too much time with Erika, but you can't help but dig deeper.
"Um, Atticus...I'm sorry if I'm too nosey, but...are you also getting bullied?" Atticus immediately turns away, his body almost flinching away from your words. Missy and Wiggly, who were applying healing items to both of your Pokemon, look at you with concern and curiosity. Ruby, for her part, stares at you with worry. Even Roland, deep asleep, around your neck squirms as if feeling your distress.
You do your best to maintain eye contact with Atticus even as he goes to stand up. A part of you already regrets your words, but you have to push on through. Your worry for your classmate overrides any sense of hesitation, if you'd overstepped then that's something you can live with. But letting your classmate get bullied under your watch is something you can't accept.
"I'm sure Mela would love to hear your concern, one can easily tell your sincerity, but I feel I've already said too much. I'm sure the situation will sort itself out with time." You can tell when you're being dismissed, even if Atticus is doing his best to phrase it in a way that spares your feelings.
Your classmate dusts himself off as he grabs Kotaro's ball back from Missy, his Pokemon having been fully healed in the time it took for your discussion to finish.
"I-I'll make sure to try and reach out to her when I'm able. But Atticus, I don't exactly know what you're going through but I think I might've gone through something similar." You remember the cold sneering tones and targeted insults some of the adults in Fort Tauros threw your way even as a kid. They weren't a majority but there were enough of them that it was easier to try and make yourself sparse during certain shifts or schedules.
"Don't let it drag you down." You state with as much seriousness as you can muster, which thankfully causes Atticus to hesitate, his stance relaxing from looking nearly ready to bolt. You've honestly gotten lucky the vast majority of glares you've gotten are because you're a Mesagoza student and not because of your heritage.
"If you ever need anything, I'm always willing to lend an ear." You almost instinctively reach your hand out to his shoulder to reassure him before you catch yourself. You hesitate on whether to go through or pull your hand back, before deciding on the latter.
A brief look of disappointment flashes through Atticus's face as you do so before vanishing beneath a soft smile."Thank you. I will keep that in mind, Mariana."
"...It seems Erika wasn't exaggerating at all back during the Field Exercise…" You almost didn't catch what Attticus said at the end there aside from hearing him mention Erika's name. Atticus gives you a shallow bow before turning to leave, the sounds of the arena's bell signalling the end of Manuel and Theodora's battle.
From the sounds of things, it was a draw between Leo and Gawain. Instructor Leaf had given Manuel permission to use his other Pokemon for the Round Robin since his newest catch was a Magikarp. Though apparently she's gonna force him to help you and her with an errand in a couple of weeks in return, so you also feel a little anxious about that.
Before you could dwell on it further, you hear Ruby's voice cry out behind you, causing you to turn around. The Ground-Type looks up at you with both arms spread-out, as if asking to be lifted and carried up. A small smile creeps up on your face, as you oblige the rascal, the Drilbur's giggles lifting your mood a little.
"I did good, right, Ruby?" you ask her as you stare at Atticus's back, your classmate walking away towards the stands where the others await.
The rest of the Round Robin proceeds as normal. Well, as normal as it could without Nemona. You could feel her absence not just at the fact that there's less battles today but at the fact that you were essentially the big winner of the entire Round Robin at 5 Wins and 2 Losses.
"Don't act too surprised that you won, kid. I think you're the only one who listened to all of my little notes in their entirety," Instructor Leaf says as she hands your Trainer Card back. Alongside it was apparently a TM the Academy was handing out as a reward for the Field Exercise. The rest of the class had already received their own copies, but Instructor Leaf wanted you to stay behind after she dismissed the class to hand yours over.
"Wait, really?" You're shocked at that, you could guess that not everyone in class listened, as can be seen with Manuel and his Magikarp, but you find it hard to believe.
"Well, Jacinto did follow my suggestions mostly, but his Gym Battle was still kind of by the books. And I've no doubt Nemona probably listened, I'll only find out if she did while watching her upcoming Gym Battle; but you should be more confident in yourself, my diligent little Ducklett." The Instructor's efforts to try and ruffle your hair is made a little harder by the fact that you're taller than her by a good margin, but it doesn't deter her nor does it stop the massive grin from forming on Leaf's face.
"And good job on approaching Atticus. If you hadn't at least tried to reach out to the rest of your class, I might've ordered you to do it officially as my minion. But it's good you're doing it on your own."
"I feel like I might've pushed too much…" You look down on the floor, the entire conversation playing itself over again in your head. There were moments where hindsight tells you could've been different if you handled it better.
Your instructor only hums in response, neither scolding nor reassuring you.
"Maybe, but at least now we know. I'll try to look into it myself but there's a difference between what a student and a teacher can find out, y'know? Henry, that stick in the mud, already warned me about constantly having Missy hang in you kids' shadows while in Academy grounds." Instructor Leaf's grumbling is joined by her Mismagius who floats her head up out of her trainer's shadow to complain.
"Now get going, kid, I'll clean up things here. Go on and enjoy your weekend." Miss Leaf goes to ruffle your head, though with how she's shorter, you can't help but giggle as she's forced to stand on her toes to do so.
You wave goodbye to Wiggly and Missy as you leave the Arena building, feeling at least somewhat reassured. Even if you don't know exactly what to say or do to help Atticus with his problem, saying anything seems to have at least changed the stalemate he was in. You'll probably have to follow up on it, however.
You wince as Sunny slams both of his fists on each side of the Nosepass, cracking the latter's exterior with a crunch. The Nosepass stumbles back disoriented, giving Sunny the prime opportunity to take advantage with a Low Kick, sweeping the Rock Type with his feet. Before the Nosepass could slam onto the floor, Sunny's tail grabs onto one of the Rock-Type stubby feet and tosses them at one of the cavern's walls. The Nosepass impacts with a heavy thud and slumps down onto the cave floor unconscious.
"G-good J-job, Sunny. L-let's grab the last fossil and l-leave!" Nemona herself walks up from behind the Monferno, the two other fossils she needs in her hands. Your classmate is wrapped in bundles of winter gear, with a hard hat on her head. She was breathing heavily and part of you thinks it isn't just from the cold.
"The challenge seems kind of short." You unknowingly say out loud, bringing your other classmates' attention to you. The entirety of Class VII is watching Nemona's Gym challenge, both as a courtesy and, in your case, as potential intel. You still haven't decided on which Gym you're tackling this month but any info is better than none.
Though jotting down the new moves Sunny and the rest of Nemona's Pokemon have shown off wouldn't hurt. Looking down at what you've written down in your notebook so far, you blanch at the words Aerial Ace. Something you'll have to account for next time.
"Mhmm. Both Miss Tyme and Sir Grusha prefer to keep their Gym Challenges on the shorter end due to the conditions in and around Glaseado. There's only so much you can do to prepare and keep challengers safe when it comes to the mountains. You never know when something could go wrong after all."
"Sometimes winter in Fede can get to freezing levels of cold, I'm terrified to imagine what it's like in Glaseado itself." Erika had a frown on her face as she typed something on her phone, her eyes flitting between it and Nemona's challenge.
"Part of the Gym Challenge's ethos is actually instilling a good amount of awe and respect for the Wild in the challengers. Though Sir Grusha can get pretty overboard in that regard." Elise chuckled lightly even as her eyes remained glued onto the TV. This has been the most animated you've seen her all week.
"You seem to really love your hometown huh, Elise?" Jacinto asks while grooming Nimbus clouds with a brush, the Flying type purring with delight on his lap.
"O-of course it's my…hometown. Being excited for it is natural, isn't it?" Elise stuttered and seemed to have been caught flat footed by Jacinto's question. She was doing one of her few nervous tells that you remember, pursing her lips and lightly hugging herself with her free arm. That and with how she hesitated, you couldn't help but worry about her.
"That's true, I'd go to bat for Medali any time of day. Frankly, I wonder if our Field Exercises will ever take us to any of our hometowns." Jacinto proudly claims, puffing up his chest, prompting Manuel to exaggeratedly roll his eyes behind him.
While the idea of having a Field Exercise back home has crossed your mind before, you're not sure you can face your family without at least 8 Badges. You do wish you could introduce your friends to them properly though. Even if having Erika and your siblings meet sounds like a disaster in-waiting.
"I'd love to show everyone around Montenevera, though it's a lot smaller compared to places and settlements most of you guys are used to. The Baronial hot springs are said to have strengthening properties for Fire-Type Pokemon, I'm sure Sharon would love them, Thea." Elise recovers enough from her prior hesitation to turn and face you and the others, her eyes settling on Theodora. There's a gentle smile on Elise's face and all that's missing is an outstretched hand.
"I have actually been to Montenevera before on…family business, though I'd love to go with you still." You briefly catch an indecipherable look on Theodora's face before it smooths out into one of her charming smiles. Elise takes it in stride before turning her attention back to Nemona's challenge. Surprisingly, you've noticed that she seems distracted during the watching of the Gym Challenge, vacillating between silently staring at Elise or looking contemplatively at the television screen the Challenge was being broadcasted on.
From the brief look you shared with Erika, it seems you're not the only one who noticed. Your friend all but pointed at Elise and Theodora with her eyes. Giving a small nod, you decide to check on the latter after the Gym Challenge is finished.
According to Elise, after Nemona retrieves the last fossil, she's supposed to head for an exit to the settlement itself, fending off any further attacks and ambushes as best they can. Though with how easily Sunny is dispatching any Pokemon that crops up, they're unlikely to face any further ambushes. They even pre-empting a number of traps thanks to the help of Nemona's Cutiefly detecting them before they can even get close.
As Nemona exits the caverns, she all but collapses onto her knees, Sunny helping her up to walk back towards where the judges were waiting at the staging area, briefly catching glimpses of the Miniors Elise says are carrying the cameras used to record the entire thing. At this point, you're almost certain she might have asthma but you're keeping that to yourself for now. Though that's for Nemona to tell or not.
And with that, Nemona's part of the Gym Challenge ends, the stream turning to the next competitor in the batch. Erika goes to remove the HDMI cable connecting her laptop to the bottom floor TV, putting an end to the Class VII viewing session. You quickly congratulate Nemona on the class group chat before sneaking glances at Theodora and Elise, wondering how you'll approach the former.
With the Gym Challenge over, the rest of your classmates head off their separate ways. Jacinto, Atticus, and Erika were heading upstairs, the last of them mouthing a good luck to you as she leaves. You message Ostia a goodnight, they've apparently also tuned in to watch the Gym Challenge on their end. And finally, Manuel and Elise were apparently hedging out to train, though with how the latter had a wooden training sword with them, you doubt Elise's training will involve Pokemon.
Then you remember Rin is a Honedge and you think surely Elise wouldn't—
"She would. She most definitely would." Theodora finally speaks up just as the front door closes. You turn to her, a little embarrassed that your thoughts are that predictable. You can see a look of exasperation on your friend's face, tinged with a little bit of affection from how the ends of her lips were curling upwards. Despite how Theodora is nominally seated all prim and proper, there's a laxness to her back posture, fully putting weight on the couch behind her.
Sitting next to her on the couch, but not too close, you speak. "I don't mean to pry—"
"Yet pry you shall. Don't worry, the concern is appreciated, but do have more confidence in your judgement, dear. You're worried about me, are you not?" Your classmate stares at you with a tired smile on her face, the exhaustion in her eyes was clear, as if she wasn't even able to take pleasure in being smug.
"Y-yes. You seemed out of it earlier, Normally you'd be excited about Elise reaching out but…"
"...must be that out of it, huh…" Theodora mutters under her breath, so low that you almost didn't hear it. And even then, the way she said it, you couldn't believe it'd come out of your prim, proper and always elegant classmate's mouth.
"Oh, Elise…Believe it is very much appreciated. I'm merely not in a mood to appreciate it. What a shame." The exasperation and affection clash together in Theodora's voice, the shadow of a smile forming as she looks out the dorm entrance where Elise left.
"Is it about…Lokix?" Memories of Theodora's face when topics of her father came up flash through your mind. Deciding to err on the safer side, you ask about Lokix instead.
"Could've sworn you'd ask about…Well our dear acquaintance Lokix is apparently recovering decently, though I'll be seeing it for myself soon." Theodora had muttered something under her breath before she responded.
"Oh? Are you visiting him? He's still in Cortondo, right? We never got to thank him for saving us." You didn't want to dwell nor really remember the events of last Friday in detail, but you do remember Lokix essentially saved you and your classmates.
"I'll be stopping briefly when I leave next week, yes. According to the Nurse Joy's he's in stable enough condition to be visited at least. He'll have to remain with them for now, though, Lokix is still registered on the Dangerous Pokemon registry." You let out a small sigh of relief that they're doing well at least. Wait…
"What do you mean leaving next week?" You ask, confusion and a small nugget of concern for Theodora in your voice.
"Ah, yes. I'd forgotten to mention it to the others. I'll be excused from classes for most of next week. I'd already told the Instructor, I'm frankly surprised she hasn't told you." Theodora turns to look at you, sitting up a little straighter. There's something off about how she's responding, like she's being even more careful while talking.
"Knowing the Instructor she probably wanted you to tell us yourself." Theodora rolls her eyes at that, an amused smile on her lips.
"More importantly though, is it…" About Family Business. You leave the implication unmentioned. It's faint but you just about catch Theodora's smile almost slipping. It seems unfortunately you're right.
Theodora doesn't respond, but she does go still and quiet as a board. The entire living room is silent, only the sound of the ticking of the wall clock and the distant noises of Pokemon outside can be heard.
Finally she speaks.
"I'd rather not say. Not that anything could be done about it." Theodora responds, bitterness clear in her tone. Biting your lip and remembering how the conversation with Atticus went, you push on despite the bad feeling in your gut.
"Are you sure? Maybe Elise or I could help—"
"My, I preferred it when our Miss Class President was far less nosy. Do remember to pay attention to Jacinto and Manuel this month though if you're trying to turn a new leaf." Theodora snaps at you, causing you to flinch back in surprise at the venom in her voice.
"I'm sorry, that was too far of me." You immediately apologize, shame fills your gut as your cheeks heat up. "I know I've been a horrible Class President, barely even doing the minimum. I'm truly sorry." You apologize again as you bow your head and look down on to the floor, afraid that you've stepped too far and given cause for Theodora to hate you like she should.
Theodora looks away, muttering something under her breath.
"What the fuck is wrong with you, Thea…"
She turns back towards you, staring directly into your eyes, there's an expression filled with regret on her face.
"No, I was the one who snapped at you. I apologize and while I truly do appreciate the concern. Yes, it is what you're thinking of." You look down, still feeling a little guilt for poking too far, but you don't say it, knowing it'll just spoil Theodora's apology.
Looking down, you twiddle your thumbs thinking of anything to say to clear the awkward air between the two of you. From how your classmate is looking away, she's probably thinking the same.
"If…you ever want to complain about your family, I'm willing to listen. I've helped a friend through troubles with their parents. I'm sure Elise is more than willing as well, she seems important to you." You provided Kali a shoulder to cry and complain to when her parents were going through their divorce, and offering the same to your friend is the least you can do.
"Yes, she is. The offer is noted and appreciated, but this is my burden to bear." Theodora looks at you but it seems her gaze is focused on something far, far away.
Finally Theodora stands up, cracking and stretching her fingers, a small yawn forcing its way out of her mouth.
"Worry not, it's nothing too serious at least. Besides, it's late, Mariana, dear. We might not have classes tomorrow, but I'm certain the things weighing on our minds will be easier to handle with a full night's rest. Goodnight, dear." Responding with a goodnight of your own, Theodora leaves as you go to clean up for the night. Despite Theodora's assurances, the worry in your gut still refuses to leave.
"Actually, before could I request something from you." You turn at the sound of Theodora's voice, she's facing away from you still standing by the stairs.
"Could you watch over Elise while I'm gone for next week? I'm certain she's up to something that will give me palpitations and not the fun kind. She's hiding it but last week is still…" Still facing away from you, Theodora sounds like she's forcing herself to even say the words she's saying. You've been avoiding dwelling on what happened but you're not surprised Elise has taken a different approach.
"I'll do my best." You respond with as much confidence and authority you can muster, speaking like the head of a class should. By the almost quiet 'Thank you' you hear from Theodora, you could almost believe yourself when you say it.
MONTH 2 WEEK 2 VOTE
Reached KNOW 8 from Weekly Lessons. KNOW XP Gain from Weekly lessons will resume MONTH 3 as the lessons expand (Assuming Mariana remains at KNOW 8)
Not every waking moment was spent in class, just most of them. What exactly were you doing throughout the week outside of the daily grind? (Some Potential Social Encounters change every week)
You have 3 AP Available
Current Cash: 2,500 Pokedollars
League Points: 16,000
Vote will be by Plan Voting Again
[] I Work Out at the Library: Mesagoza Academy has two Libraries, the one in Rodrigo Hall and the dedicated Library building in Maria Hall. Maybe spend a couple of hours a day studying in your free time so you aren't completely lost during class. -1 AP
Potential Social Encounters: Erika, Atticus, ???
Gain 300 KNOW XP (Increases to 660 KNOW XP with traits)
Erika Bond 2: Gain +100 KNOW XP (Final KNOW XP gain increases to 880 KNOW XP)
[] Pokemon and Me: The Academy has a vast collection of Pokemon under its care and employ, not even counting student and trainer Pokemon. Such a large menagerie necessitates a small army just to take care of them and their needs. Time to check out the enlistment center. -1 AP
Potential Social Encounters: Ostia, Atticus
Gain 300 PROW XP.
Gain 500 League Points
Gain random Pokemon Material
???
[] You Can't Run from a Trainer Battle: The battling Arenas at Rodrigo Hall are both numerous and massive. Since it's still early in the school year, the gap between the various students in the same year isn't quite big yet. That is how things normally are, however you have a Badge now. And apparently your performance during the Gym Battle has scared a decent number of potential challengers. -1 AP
Potential Social Encounters: Erika, Jacinto, Manuel
Roll 1d20+SKLL DC 20, 24
Gain 100-300 SKLL XP
Gain 100-300 Pokemon XP (Renne not included)
All Pokemon Moves Gain 1 MXP (Renne not included)
Benefits from this action have decreased since you've reached 2nd Badge Level. Benefits will return if you remain 2nd Badge Level by Month 3
[] You Can't Run from a Battle Between Trainers: Apparently, the school has a dueling arena, not for Pokemon, but for Humans, where the students can pick up wooden spears and sticks to beat each other over with. You might be simplifying things, but it'll be a way to keep yourself fit and sharp. -1 AP
Potential Social Encounters: Elise, ???, Manuel
Roll 1d20+PROW DC 20, 24
Gain 300-500 PROW XP
Elise Bond 2: Gain +100 PROW XP (Final PROW XP WILL BE 400-600 PROW XP)
Interacting with Nobles
[] Advanced BATTLE: A Pokemon Journey is a multi-year long process. Most Trainers get one badge and then struggle for years getting a second. Half of all Paldean Trainers quit around the third Gym. Only a tenth make it to the seventh. There are no shortages of Trainers with only one or two Badges hanging around in Mesagoza. Many of them go to Battle Arenas in Mesagoza proper to prepare themselves for the League Circuit opening up in August. You can challenge them, and you're absolutely going to lose, but there's no better way to reveal your weaknesses than having them ruthlessly exploited. -1 AP
Potential Social Encounters: Atticus, Manuel, Elise
Gain 400-600 SKLL XP
Gain 400-600 Pokemon XP (Renne not included)
All Pokemon Moves Gain 1 MXP (Renne not included)
Lose Money no matter what
[] To Train Them is Your Cause: While live battle is useful in sharpening moves, nothing beats good old practice; Experimentation, Building Muscle Memory, or just plain old Mastery. Right now early on, while your Pokemon aren't that strong yet, it's still safe to use the Training Fields of the Academy. But as you get stronger, you'll have to look for more isolated places. You can't let people find out what you're cooking up, after all. That, and something about collateral damage from moves getting worse.
While your old method of training Roland was effective in getting him and his moves up to shape, you're really not sure how to handle training more than one Pokemon. There's only so many hours in the day, after all. No matter how you handle it, you could always just spend more time training your Pokemon at the cost of other activities if you're willing. -1/-2/-3 AP
Potential Social Encounters: Jacinto, Erika, Mela
Roll 1d20+SKLL DC 24
Gain 100-200 SKLL XP
Chosen Pokemon gain 100-200 Pokemon XP
AP Expenditure depends on how many Training Options are chosen. Current Trainable Pokemon is 2, as such choosing more than 2 options will increase AP Cost to 2. Taking more than 4 will increase AP Cost to 3.
To be a Ghost is to be defined by Memory. To be an amalgam of dead remnants of the past, literal or metaphorical, it matters only in the specifics. From lingering memories and emotions that constitute the various immortal specters like Gengar and Mismagius, to relics and cadavers like Golurk and Cursola. It is the Type of Historians, Scholars and those Burdened by the Past.
Roland's Ghost-Type moves as well as his attacks that lean into his nature as a fast moving Pokemon gain 2-3 MXP
This includes Dragon Tail
To be a Dragon is to be defined by one's own Will. A conviction of how things were, how things are, or how things must be. To use one's own power in the service of a world only they can see. From a Bagon's desire to fly making it reality, to Haxorus and Kommo-O's perception of the world being a contest of wills. It is the Type of Egotists, Diehards and Heroes.
Roland's Dragon-Type moves as well as his attacks that lean into his nature as a powerful-attacking Pokemon gain 2-3 MXP
This includes Dragon Breath
Steel is indomitable, it is unceasing, it is the Future. The Turning of the Wheel that heralds Tomorrow. And tomorrow can never be stopped. An Excadrill can only drill forwards, afterall. It is the Type of Reformists, Autocrats and those desperate for that sweet tomorrow.
Ruby's Steel-Type moves as well as her attacks that lean into her nature as a future Steel-Type gain 2-3 MXP
This includes Iron Burst: Deal more damage the less HP the user has.
Electricity is said to be like Inspiration, striking once and changing the world in its wake. Spontaneous, momentary, fleeting and awe-spiring. It heralds a changing world and often cares for what it leaves behind. To strike like lightning, a Raichu leaving ash and smoke in its wake as it races through the world. It is the Type of Artists, Geniuses and all around Eccentrics.
Ruby's Electric-Type moves as well as her attacks that lean into her nature as a speedy attacker gain 2-3 MXP
This includes Railspike: An attacking move that ignores damage lowering modifiers that don't come from the enemy's type and badge strength.
Feel the Ground beneath your feet, love it for it is the World. To be connected with not just others but with one's own environment and surroundings. From life giving mud beneath a Torterra's feet, to a Mamoswine's ancient permafrost; Ground is everywhere and thus everything. It is the Type of Sincere Socialites, Gardeners and Manipulators.
Ruby's Ground-Type moves gain 2-3 MXP
Ruby's Curse gains 2-3 MXP
Mind over Matter is not merely an axiom, it is the entire thesis of the Psychic line. Control. Control over yourself, over your thoughts, over your actions, over your Fate, over the world and over creation itself if needed. It is thought turned into action, from an Abra wishing it was someplace else to a Mr. Mime making something out of nothing. It is the Type of Creatives, Control Freaks and Espers
Renne's Psychic-Type moves as well as most of her supporting attacks gain 2-3 MXP
Renne gains 250 Poke XP
There are two sides to every Mystery, its concealment and its unraveling. Fairy embodies both the search for understanding of the world, of others and of its hiding. Humans and Pokemon are paradoxical things, seeking both to be understood yet fearing that connection. A Togepi carries in it the mystery of life and a Cleffa brings it the secrets of the cosmos. This is the Type for Social Butterflies, Manipulators and Detectives
Renne's Fairy-Type moves as well as all of her Phantasmal Attacks gain 2-3 MXP
Renne gains 250 Poke XP
[] The World in a City (3/10): Mesagoza is huge. Obscenely so. It's so massive and sprawling that you could spend days traveling through every inch of it and still miss some nooks and crannies. But you're going to be spending the better part of three years in this city, maybe even more in the future. Better get wandering. -1 AP
This is a Multi-Action Choice. Each AP spent on it unlocks more options and choices in the future.
Roll a 1d100 Random Event Roll
Ostia Bond 2: +20 to RER rolls
Unlock at 3/10: Syncretism is a funny thing. Although you were raised in the traditional shamanistic faiths of the Highlands, long centuries of contact with the Geomantic Church had eventually led to elements of both faiths intermingling with one another in your homeland. Time to see what a "regular" Geomantic Parish looks like. No better place to start than in the Rey Luna Cathedral. (Unlock the Rey Luna Cathedral as a location. They might know something about the stakes…)
Unlock at 4/10: You need to find the Orden de Verde's Mesagoza Chapter House. You're not obsessed, you're just really interested in the history and traditions of the Knightly Order. If you get some more merch and maybe catch a glimpse of the Knights out of it, then all the better. (Unlock the Mesagoza Chapter House as a location. There might even be a way to join them as a student. Though that will be a long-term commitment…)
[] West Mesagoza Little Cup: With the year's Circuit in full swing, a number of local tournaments and competitions have begun to crop up across the city. Normally hosting and planning tournaments such as these are the responsibility of a Gym Trainer, Mesagoza doesn't have one. As such the responsibility falls to either the Champion (Erika says they're technically the Gym Leader of Mesagoza) or to the local mayor.
The West Mesagoza Little Cup is one of these tournaments, made and organized to help provide entertainment and to support up-coming beginner trainers with funds, items and even TMs depending on their performance. It'll be a good experience for you, not just in terms of battling but also stage presence. -1 AP
Potential Social Encounters: Manuel, Elise, ???
Roll 1d20+SKLL DC 15/20/25/30
Gain Cumulative Rewards depending on roll (1st Place Prize Reward: TM for Thunder Wave, 25,000 Pokedollars)
Gain 400/500/600/750 Poke XP
Can only be taken once a month. Cannot be taken at the same time as East Mesagoza Little Cup
[] Grade 8 Ranger Work: Following the 'Restoration of Order' in Porto Marinada, both the World Rangers Association and Interpol denounced the Paldean government. In retaliation, Paldea began to undermine Ranger Associations throughout the region. In Mesagoza proper, many of the responsibilities of Rangers fell to either the newly created and League-backed Trainer Associations or the Railway Military Police in the case of Mesagoza's environs. The effectiveness of the handover is questionable at best in some areas of the city, but this presents an opportunity for you to make some hard-earned cash via jobs that are too below the notice of the League to tackle.
Potential Social Encounters: Manuel, Mela
Ranger Work is accomplished via a 1d20+STAT with DC thresholds for rewards (Cash and STAT XP)
What kind of Ranger Work you'll tackle will be decided by a vote in the next update.
There are four kinds of Ranger Work. Maintenance Work, Research Work, Community Work and Suppression Work. Each correspond with PROW, KNOW, CHRM and SKLL respectively
[] Purchasing Power: One of the Advantages of being a student in Mesagoza Academy (aside from the student discount) is that unlike regular Trainers on their journey, you don't have to trudge through the routes to get from settlement to settlement. This does mean that there isn't a need for healing items and traveling gear outside of Field Exercises, but it doesn't hurt to be prepared. You never know when that potion is the difference between victory or defeat. -1 AP
Start a Mini Turn buying items
Current Cash: Pokedollars 2,500
Available items depend on locations in Mesagoza unlocked
Available Location: Mesagoza Northeast Calico Mall, Academy Town Pokemart, Calico Mall Delibird Presents
[] Extracurricular Extras: Whether due to a recent glut of League Points or a guaranteed source of them, you're now confident in engaging the internal "Economy" of the Paldean Pokemon League. You can request tutoring for yourself or for your Pokemon from the Academy staff or from upperclassmen, commission a TM or TR for your own use (it'll cost extra if you don't provide the Pokemon Materials yourself), purchase specific Pokemon Materials for your needs, or even take part in the informal School Auctions for rare items if you're feeling lucky. -1 AP
Start a Mini Turn buying via League Points
Current League Points: 16,000 League Points
Can exchange LP to raise stats or to teach Pokemon a specific move
Can exchange LP to commission a TM or TR (will cost extra if necessary Pokemon Materials aren't provided)
Can exchange LP to buy Pokemon Materials for personal use
Roll a 1d100 to bid for a random item (usefulness may vary)
[] The Second Step (1/2): Yo! Champ in the making! Gyms serve as testing grounds in a Journey, places where a Trainer's strengths and weaknesses are laid bare in a safe environment. Some regions prefer purely combat Gyms, others prefer to test a Trainer's relationship with their Pokemon and some challenge a person's relation to the wild and the world around them. Paldea operates on a hybrid system, the vast wilds of the region necessitating Trainers that know their lefts from their rights, but also that Trainers that know how to fight.
You've tested the waters of how challenging a Gym works, but now for some reason or another, you'll be challenging your second Gym outside of your Field Exercise. -1 AP
Will feature a sub vote next update on which Gym you will be tackling
AP Cost next week will depend on Gym Chosen
-2000 League Points. Will be returned after a successful Gym Battle.
Taking this option will lock you into a Gym Leader fight next week. Gym Challenge will depend on which settlement's Gym was challenged
Due to challenging a Gym outside of a Field Exercise, you will have to undergo a Gym Challenge before you fight the Gym Leader next week.
[] Knowing is Half the Battle: Good preparation and intel is key to any successful operation. Or at least your more military minded teachers tell you. You'll admit that you were caught massively off guard by Katie's Cutiefly. It was only through your Pokemon's Herculean efforts that snatched victory from the proboscis of almost certain defeat. Hopefully you won't make that mistake a second time.
+2 to Rolls for Gym Test and +2 to Effect Rolls for Gym Battle
Know what potential Pokemon the Gym Leader could potentially deploy ahead of time.
Bonding Event: A week's available bonding events are decided either by the narrative or by who you hung out with last week as seen in the Potential Social Encounters. Bonding Events with your Pokemon are always Available. (Choose 2)
[] Roland: Despite pretending otherwise, he's smart enough to recognize words and letters. Time to teach your layabout how to read. At least this time he's kind of motivated by wanting to read Mom's letter. Though who knows how long that'll last. Greatly Improved Bond with Roland. 1/7 to Bond 4. Due to Aviator Glasses (One-Time Use)
[] Renne: While Renne is willing to train now, and has indeed thrown herself into it with gusto, she out of all your Pokemon is the one most interested in getting a hobby for herself. At least that's what she says while watching telenovelas on the dorm TV. Greatly Improved Bond with Renne. 1/5 to Bond 3. Due to Feline Bed (One-Time Use).
[] Ruby: While you know enough about Ruby, it's time for her to learn about you. Might as well take down two Wattrel's with one stone and spend a whole day getting her acquainted with Mesagoza and the Academy. Improved Bond with Ruby. 1/3 to Bond 2
[] Nemona: Nemona's back from her 2nd Gym, badge in hand. While you watched the battle itself along with your classmates earlier that week, it wouldn't hurt to chat with Nemona about her experience. Improved Bond with Nemona. 2/3 to Bond 2
[] Erika: Your friend decided to invite you out for Lunch during the Weekend, after you both cleared your schedule for the day. Aside from the good food, the Lunch was memorable because it was the first time Erika really talked about herself and her home. Greatly Improved Bond with Erika. 3/5 to Bond 3. Due to Kofu Coupon (One-Time Use).
[] Astrid: After dragging her butler with her to apologize to you, right after one of your classes, Astrid asked you for a friendly spar with your Pokemon. Though with how competitive she seemed to be getting, you're not really sure on the whole friendly part. Improved Bond with Astrid. 1/2 to Bond 1
[] Elise: Following your Field Exercise and after returning to the Academy, Elise has thrown herself not just into training but also in furthering her skills as a swordswoman. As such she's invited you to spar with her. You've never seen a practitioner of the Eight Leaves One Blade School before, so this should be a learning experience. Though your training got side-tracked after Cinder, Elise' Charcadet, told you through Renne that Elise has been practicing using live steel. Greatly Improved Bond with Elise. 2/5 to Bond 3. Due to Wooden Blade (One-Time Use). Available due to Theodora's Request
Stat Gains from this Turn:
+400 SKLL XP
Dreepy: +750 POKE XP
Drilbur: +950 POKE XP
Drilbur's Ground Type Moves: +2 MXP
Drillbur's Other Moves: +1 MXP
10,000 League Points from FE1
TM Thief from FE1 (Advanced Move. Secondary Effect: Copy targets stat boosts for 2 Turns. Unlocks Knock Off when Mastered.)
Got hyper fixated on another fandom but I'm mostly back now
Thanks to Nemastrea and Tempera for proofreading
And thanks to the people who waited for so long
Moratorium for 12 Hours
