Time passed faster than Ray expected.
It felt like just yesterday they had stepped through the grand gates of the Academy, and now, the school year was nearing its end. The bright greens of late spring had shifted to the golden glow of autumn, and the training fields were covered in falling leaves. It wasn't just the season that had changed—so had the students.
Ray stood near the edge of the outdoor battle ring, watching as Pidgeotto gracefully dodged a flurry of mock attacks from a training dummy. Its movements were sharper, tighter. Its wind-based techniques had improved significantly, and Ray had already started introducing new strategies during their training sessions.
Pidgeotto - Level 32
Aptitude: Light Blue
He smiled. The growth was undeniable. And not just in level—the way Pidgeotto anticipated commands, adjusted its stance mid-flight, and responded to subtle cues showed how much their bond had matured.
Not far away, Kira was locked in a mock sparring match with her Machop. Despite her size, she moved with surprising agility, mimicking the strikes and postures of fighting-type Pokémon. Her Machop, now visibly bulkier and faster than at the start of the year, met her pace with precision.
Machop - Level 33
Aptitude: Blue
Their progress hadn't gone unnoticed.
Instructors often pulled them aside after training, asking for demonstration battles or tactical feedback. While Ray and Kira had remained among the top of their class, they weren't the only ones advancing. Cael's Houndour had crept up to Level 23, and even students who struggled early on had made strides.
Final Preparations
One morning, Instructor Vernis gathered them all in the main auditorium.
"Only two weeks remain until the academic recess," he began. "But don't treat this as a conclusion—treat it as the start of a harsher phase."
He paced in front of the rows of students, arms behind his back.
"During your time away from the Academy, we expect every one of you to continue your studies. There will be assessments when you return, and those who slack off will be left behind. Progress isn't a one-year sprint—it's a lifelong marathon."
Ray could feel the pressure in the room. Some students slouched. Others tensed.
Kira glanced at him and grinned. "Wanna train every morning during break?"
Ray grinned back. "You even have to ask?"