Chapter 34: And the Race begins

Gladion's Team

Guy- Machoke

Mystique - Milotic

Nyx- Eevee

Collosus - Pupitar

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The morning sun streamed through the windows of Moonwood Town Pokémon Academy, casting long shadows across the classroom floor. Final exam results had been posted earlier that morning, causing a buzz of excitement among the graduating students. Gladion's name sat at the top of the list, followed by Rex and Gwenyth– a fact that had been driving Rex particularly crazy all morning.

Mr.Hoot stood at the front of the classroom, three pristine Poké Balls gleamed on the desk before him, each containing a starter Pokémon that would help shape the destiny of its chosen trainer. All of these Pokemon coming from Professor Oak's lab.

"Before we begin the selection ceremony," Mr.Hoot announced, "I'd like to share something with all of you." He picked up one of the Poké Balls, rolling it thoughtfully in his palm. "These three Pokémon – Charmander, Bulbasaur, and Squirtle – represent more than just the beginning of your journey. They represent tradition, responsibility, and the sacred bond between trainer and Pokémon."

Gladion listened intently, though his mind briefly wandered to his current team. Guy, practicing his punches in his home's backyard. Mystique gracefully swimming in their pool. Colossus still working towards that distant Tyranitar evolution. Nyx determined to become an Umbreon. Each one special, each one part of his family.

"Now then," Mr.Hoot continued, "let's begin with our top student. Gladion Vortex, please come forward."

Ignoring his thoughts and rising from his seat, Gladion could feel Rex's glare burning into his back. The boy had been insufferable since the exam results were posted, constantly muttering about "lucky guesses" and "teacher's pet" under his breath.

"As our highest-scoring student in both written and practical examinations," Mr.Hoot announced proudly, "you have first choice of starter Pokémon. Choose wisely."

Rex's voice cut through the momentary silence. "Oh please, we all know he's picking Charmander. Anyone who's actually serious about becoming Champion would." He leaned forward in his seat, smirking. "Though it's probably wasted on someone who just got lucky with a handed-down Pupitar."

Several students shifted uncomfortably at the mention of Gladion's late grandfather's gift. Even Mr.Hoot's expression darkened slightly at Rex's lack of tact.

Gladion, however, remained calm. Years of mental maturity from his past life helped him maintain composure. "Actually," he said, voice clear and confident, "I choose Squirtle."

The reaction was immediate. Whispers erupted throughout the classroom. Rex's face cycled through confusion, disbelief, and finally settled on mockery. "Ha! And here I thought you couldn't make any dumb decisions!"

"Mr. Anderson," Mr.Hoot's stern voice cut through the chatter, "that's quite enough."

Gladion accepted Squirtle's Poké Ball with a respectful bow. "Thank you, teacher. I've given this choice a lot of thought."

"Care to share your reasoning?" Mr.Hoot asked, genuine curiosity in his voice.

"Of course." Gladion turned to face the class, years of Pokémon knowledge from his previous life organizing themselves in his mind. "While Charizard is undeniably powerful, Blastoise offers unique advantages. Its defensive capabilities are superior, and its move pool is incredibly diverse. And it's more easy to train than a Charizard who more often than not have anger issues."

He paused, noting how several students were furiously taking notes. "Plus, considering the early gym layouts in Kanto, having a Water-type starter provides significant advantages. Both Pewter and Cerulean gyms become more manageable."

Mr.Hoot nodded approvingly. "Excellent analysis, Gladion. Rex, you're next."

Rex practically bounded to the front of the room, snatching Charmander's Poké Ball before Mr.Hoot could even offer it. "Finally, a real Pokémon for a real trainer. And guess what?" He turned to Gladion with a smug grin. "I turn ten next week. That means I'll have a two-month head start while you babies wait to come of age."

"Rex," Mr.Hoot sighed, "becoming a trainer isn't a race."

"Maybe not," Rex retorted, "but by the time these two start their journey, my Charmander will probably be a Charmeleon. Maybe even a Charizard by the time we meet in the Indigo League!"

Gwen, who had been quietly observing until now, stepped forward to claim her Bulbasaur. "You know, Rex, evolution doesn't automatically make a Pokémon stronger. It's about the bond between trainer and Pokémon, proper training, and understanding their individual strengths. Is not that right, Gengar?"

"Gen-Gen-Gar" Gengar popped out of Gwen's shadow scaring the shit out of Rex.

"Oh great, another lecture from the Vortex twins," Rex tried to act differently though as he rolled his eyes. "While you two are sitting around theorizing, I'll be out there getting real experience. When we meet at the League, you'll see the difference between reading about battles and actually fighting them!"

Gladion exchanged a knowing look with his sister. "Rex, do you remember our unauthorized battle last year? The one where my Machop evolved into Machoke and beat your brother's Hitmonlee?"

Rex's face reddened. "That was different! I wasn't prepared!"

"No, it wasn't different," Gladion replied calmly. "It showed that battles aren't just about raw power or evolution stages. They're about strategy, adaptation, and trust between trainer and Pokémon."

"Says the guy who needed his Pokémon to evolve to win," Rex shot back.

"Actually," Gwen interjected, "evolution during battle often occurs because of the strong bond between trainer and Pokémon. It's a sign of trust and emotional connection, not just power."

Mr.Hoot cleared his throat. "Well said, all of you. Though perhaps we could continue this discussion another time? There are still graduation ceremonies to attend to."

As the class filed out later that day, Rex caught up with Gladion in the hallway. "Hey, Vortex!" His voice had lost some of its earlier bravado. "Look, I... I shouldn't have said that stuff about your grandfather's gift,Pupitar. That was low."

Gladion nodded, appreciating the unexpected apology. "Thanks, Rex. And hey, having a head start isn't a bad thing. Just don't let it make you overconfident."

"Whatever," Rex's familiar smirk returned. "Just make sure you actually make it to the Indigo League. I want to be the one to knock you out of the tournament!"

As Rex walked away, Gwen joined her brother. "Well, that was almost civil of him."

"He's not a bad person," Gladion mused. "Just too focused on proving himself."

"Speaking of proving ourselves," Gwen's eyes sparkled with mischief, "want to make a bet about who gets further in the League?"

"You're on, little sister."

"By three minutes!" she protested, playfully shoving him.

Walking home together, they released their new starters from their Poké Balls. Bulbasaur immediately began exploring the path's edge, examining plants with curious eyes. Squirtle, meanwhile, sized up Gladion with an evaluating gaze before giving an approving nod.

"You know," Gwen said as they watched their new Pokémon, "two months isn't really that long to wait. We can use the time to prepare properly."

Gladion nodded, already forming plans in his mind. "Exactly. While Rex is rushing forward, we can work on building stronger foundations with our teams."

Looking down at his new Squirtle, Gladion felt a surge of excitement. Another piece of his carefully planned team was falling into place. Rex might have his head start, but the real journey wasn't about being first – it was about the bonds formed along the way.

As they approached their house, they could see their father's Chansey waving from the window, already preparing a celebration feast for their graduation. Their mother's Arcanine and Houndoom lounged in the front yard, offering congratulatory barks as they passed.

"Ready for the next chapter?" Gwen asked, grinning at her brother.

Gladion returned the smile, feeling the weight of all 5 Poké Balls on his belt. "More than ready. This is just the beginning."

And indeed it was. In two months, their real journey would begin. But for now, they had preparation to do, bonds to forge, and a whole world of possibilities ahead of them. Rex might be getting his head start, but Gladion knew better than anyone – it's not how you start the race that matters, it's how you finish it.

---Author Notes-------

Y'all can read 12 extra chapters on my pat*reon.

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