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taruchinator · 3 months

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🍎 General Audiences

🍎 3.5k Words

🍎 For all Juliana/Kieran shippers!

“She should be on the plane back home by now…” Kieran frowned at the thought. Because Juliana was missing or Ogerpon, he wasn't sure. He just knew he didn't like it.

He was done with being the crybaby, and was actually looking forward to the next day so he could return to the academy and get back to his training—he needed to get stronger. He would never let anyone look down on him like this again.

Kieran didn't need friends.

He didn't need the Ogre.

And he certainly didn't need—

"Juliana?!"

To think my first 3k+ fic of the year would end up being me basically gushing over Kieran from Teal Mask/Indigo Disk DLC. Not in my 2024 bingo card lemme tell you.

As many before me, I'm here to right the wrongs of GF who just took this boy's character and yeeted him out the window, cause honestly he's so sweet and gentle and psycho he deserves better than what he got, so that's what I'm giving him. Hopefully ya'll enjoy!

It wasn't fair. Life was never fair to him.

Kieran shoved his last pair of shorts into his navy blue backpack, finally completing the tedious task of packing to head back to the academy. When Ms. Briar told him and Carmine they had to return earlier than expected, in a way, he was kind of relieved.

He wanted to get away from this place. Away from the excruciating pain in his chest.

To think that after finally having the people of Kitakami accept Ogerpon just the way he always had, not only would he be forced to see her bond and form a deep connection with someone else—someone who wasn't him—but also see her be taken away.

Juliana’s smiling face instantly flashed across Kieran's mind, her cheeks pink as she proudly called him her friend when they were running around completing their silly assignment. He could feel his face starting to heat up at the memory, but immediately swatted it away as if it were an annoying Yanma in his head.

“I hate it here…” The raven mumbled as he was sprawled across his bed, covering his face with one hand and fisting his hair with the other.

It didn't take long for him to realize he was developing a small crush on his new Paldean friend. She was so strong, both as a trainer and in spirit, and it was something he greatly admired her for from the moment they first met, and only pushed him to try and become better himself. The fact that she always took him seriously without judgment and was willing to lend a hand in a situation she had no stakes in was just the icing on the cake.

Well, that and the fact that she looked absolutely adorable in the green Jinbei his grandma set her up with, but that was something he'd take with him to the grave.

And yet now, after having Ogerpon choose Juliana over him, those feelings had turned into something bittersweet. The fond memories that once brought butterflies to his stomach now made him question if she was secretly laughing behind his back the whole time.

With a deep sigh, Kieran turned towards his bedroom’s open window. It was already nighttime.

“She should be on the plane back home by now…” Kieran frowned at the thought. Because Juliana was missing or Ogerpon, he wasn't sure. He just knew he didn't like it. He scoffed. “Whatever! It's not like I'm ever gonna see them again!”

Kieran didn't need friends.

He didn't need the Ogre.

And he certainly didn't need—

“I'm so sorry sweetie, but Kieran's not feeling very well right now. If you'd like, I can give it to him on your behalf.”

The voice of his grandma along with the mention of his name perked the boy's ears slightly. After slowly sitting back up on the bed, he made sure to pay closer attention. Who would be here at this time of night anyway?

To say the voice that replied shook him to his core would be an understatement.

“I see… To be honest, I was hoping I could give it to him myself.” Juliana's gentle voice cut through his wooden door. “Could I perhaps try and talk to him? I'm sorry if I'm intruding!”

Kieran jumped and made his way to the door, hand instinctively reaching for the handle to open it, but his mind quickly caught up with his body and stopped it before it did something he would regret. Instead, he placed one ear against the barrier, waiting for whatever came next as his fists began to tremble with rage.

What was she doing here? Was humiliating him not enough? Did she have to come and rub salt on the wound by letting his grandparents know of his failure too?

“Oh sweetheart…” Kieran's grandmother spoke in sympathy, and sounds of shuffling were heard from the tatami flooring. “I don't think—”

“Juliana?!” Carmine's voice was unmistakable, coming from the right side wall of his room. She was probably done packing too and had just wandered into the scene. “What are you still doing here?!”

More shuffling and a gasp, followed by a moment of silence. Then the Paldean gave her answer. “I just… I really need to talk to Kieran. He's still here, right?”

“Well, yeah, but we're both busy getting ready to head back to Blueberry Academy in the morning! You can't just waltz into people's homes like you own the place!” For the first time in a while, Kieran was glad his sister was easily fired up and spouted nonsense out of her mouth when people ticked her off. But then, her tone leveled down, almost in pity. “It's already dark outside. You should be heading back home. Did you book a later flight?”

Juliana replied in a somewhat nonchalant tone. “That doesn't matter. And I know it's not polite of me to just show up uninvited but this is important!”

“What do you mean it doesn't matter, you little pipsqueak?!” Carmine was getting fired up again. “I already told you that Kiki isn't answering to anyone so can you just—?”

“I need to apologize!”

The room fell silent, with only the sounds of rustling trees proving that time hadn't frozen in place. Kieran was holding his breath, not quite sure how to react to the whole situation. It wasn't until he heard the knock on the door that everything seemed to go back in motion.

“Kieran? It's me.” The girl spoke softly, almost shyly and not wanting to be heard. Was this really Juliana? Pride be damned, his curiosity was piqued.

Slowly, he turned the knob and pulled the door towards him, ready to see who greeted him on the other side.

As expected, there she was. The brunette had tied her hair into a side ponytail and was sporting her Jinbei once again, holding what seemed to be a basket as she shuffled from side to side. She jumped slightly, probably not expecting him to answer at all—honestly he didn't know why he did either. But then came the smile, lopsided and filled with nothing but warmth. His stomach was doing backflips again. “Hey…”

“Hey yourself.” He was surprised his voice came out calmer than he actually was.

“Can I come in? I've got something for you.” The girl gently lifted the basket to prove her point. Arceus, he was gonna regret this wasn't he?

“Sure.” Kieran stepped to the side and motioned for her to proceed. He could see both his sister and grandma giving him looks, but at the moment he could care less. His attention was elsewhere as he closed the door behind them.

Juliana stood in the middle of the room, giving it a good look with curious eyes. She cleared her throat as she motioned at the posters on the wall. “Nice decor...”

It was an awkward attempt at starting a conversation, Kieran being familiar out of personal experience. The room was pretty much bare bones now that all of his stuff was packed away, leaving only a few Ogre posters he'd collected from past festivals plastered on the walls. Now that he thought about it, he should probably take them down one of these days. “Thanks, I guess?”

He went to sit down on the bed again and gestured for Juliana to do the same. She complied, sitting on the very edge with the basket placed between them.

Silence consumed the air.

This was getting ridiculous.

Why was she acting so withdrawn all of a sudden? This was the same girl who waltzed into an unfamiliar village, fought possibly the closest thing to Legendary Pokémon—three of them, to be precise—, and even managed to gain the trust of one and catch it in the span of a few days.

Juliana was strong, friendly and confident. And yet here she was, not even knowing how to initiate eye contact.

For the first time in his life, it was up to Kieran to break the ice.

“Why are you still here? Didn't your classmates decide to head back early too?” That came out harsher than intended, but was still a legitimate question.

“Actually, Director Clavell gave me permission to stick around for a few extra days.” The brunette finally seemed to snap out of whatever weird trance she was in, since she finally turned to look at him. “On ‘important research’ pretenses. The faculty wants me to catch Kitakami Pokémon for our Pokédex.”

That made him snort. “Shouldn't they leave that kinda stuff to a teacher?”

Juliana shrugged with a hint of amusement in her eyes. “They say it's cause I'm a Paldea Champion, but I like to think it's an excuse to not send out anyone else. Not that I'm complaining.”

“Wowzers,” Kieran couldn't stop the small smile that spread across his face, “with all the adventuring you do, you should start charging for your services.”

“What are you talking about? This is already a business, my good sir!” Juliana straightened up and pretended to fix an imaginary tie as she extended her hand toward him. “An upfront payment of 5,000 LP is required. But I'm also open to compensation in the form of a s-a-n-d-w-h-i-c-h for my mode of transportation.”

Laughter erupted between the duo, and Kieran couldn't help but think that it just felt right. This was how things were supposed to be—two kids giggling about the silliest of things, with one of them having their heart going a thousand miles per hour just because he could see the girl he liked smile.

But of course, the negative thoughts always liked to butt their ugly head whenever they pleased. How she probably thought he was weak, being his friend out of pity, and coming to rub it all in his face in some way he still wasn't quite sure of.

Whatever she had in store for him, he'd rather get it over with sooner rather than later. “You said you wanted to give me something?” His tone shifted back to icy cold as his gaze lingered on the floor.

“Oh! Yeah, right…” Juliana fumbled with the basket in her hands, digging through its insides as she rambled. “I… I had a whole speech planned and everything but my mind is totally blank right now. Guess it's best if I just show you.”

After a minute of shuffling, the girl extended her palm forward, causing Kieran to look up at what she held.

It was… a Pokéball?

“You can come out now…” The girl smiled at the round object, and a flash enveloped the room in an instant. And after opening his eyes, Kieran could only stare with a slack jaw.

Ogerpon stood in front of them looking rather confused—probably since she was in an unfamiliar environment. After those starry eyes locked on Kieran though, the little Grass-Type grinned and ran over to him, immediately wrapping herself around his left leg with a hum.

Huh?

What was going on?

“W-What is this? Why is the Og- I mean! Why is Ogerpon here?” His gaze was fixated on the Pokémon before him. Was she… happy to see him? After what he'd done?

Juliana smiled, and then went to gently slide the Pokéball over into Kieran's trembling hands. “She wanted to meet her new partner as soon as possible.”

“N-New partner? What are you talking about? You're her trainer!” He went to give the ball back, but Juliana held his hands firmly in place.

“I was her trainer. But I'm giving her to you. I know you'd do a much better job than I ever could…” The smile never left her lips, yet despite all of that and the words coming out of her mouth, Kieran refused to believe any of it. It was too good to be true. Life was never good to him.

“I don't know what you people in Paldea think is funny, but this prank is definitely not!” He could feel a hot sting in his eyes but refused to cry. He wouldn't give her the satisfaction. “So if you just came over to make fun of me, get out!”

The brunette's smile faltered, causing her to immediately let go of his hand. “This isn't a prank. I would never joke about something like this—especially with you!”

Kieran could feel the world starting to spin as he began spitting acid without thinking. “Liar! You and Carmine are just the same—lying and then making fun of me behind my back! Well not anymore! Just leave me alone!”

“Po?”

A tiny voice cut through their discussion, and the duo had almost forgotten that Ogerpon was still there. She was giving Kieran a look that he just couldn't handle. He looked away, not wanting her to see him like this—like the true monster that he was. “Just get back in your ball and go with her…”

A few moments passed, but to his surprise, Ogerpon didn't make a move to leave. If anything, she hugged his leg even tighter, almost refusing to let go as she buried her face against his clothes. “Pon… Pon-Pon…”

The warmth the Pokémon provided was full of comfort and reassurance. He didn't know how to describe the feeling, but it was almost like… she understood what he was going through. Because of this, Kieran was reminded once more of what caused him to love the Ogre so much in the first place—he could relate to it. He knew what it was like to be an outcast, all alone in a world where no one bothered to get to know the real you, and then snarling your teeth at anyone you perceived as a threat in an attempt to protect yourself.

He didn't realize he was crying until he felt Juliana's thumb wiping the salty droplets away.

“I told her about everything you did.” The girl was looking at him with concern, nothing malicious hidden in her eyes. “How because of you the people of Kitakami now see her for who she really is. About how much you've looked up to her all your life, and that you only want what's best for her.”

Turning her attention to the Grass-Type Pokémon hugging his leg, she smiled softly while patting her head. “I also told her how flattered I was that she wanted me to be her partner, but I knew I didn't deserve it…”

“W-What do you mean?” Kieran found his voice once more despite the tears flowing across his cheeks. “She chose you for a reason. You're like, super strong and brave and kind. The total opposite of me…”

“That's just the thing,” the Paldean Champion looked him in the eyes with what could only be described as regret. “I'm only strong because I've trained with people who were kind enough to help me on my journey. I'm ‘brave’ whenever my friends are around cause I don't feel like I'm alone. But I'm definitely not nice…”

“Why would you say that?” Kieran couldn't wrap his head around that statement. How could she say that after everything she's done for him?

“Nice people don't hurt those that matter to them. And that's exactly what I did to you.” Juliana lowered her gaze, the guilt most likely turning into shame as she gripped the hem of her Jinbei. “I knew how much Ogerpon meant to you and I took her anyway. Carmine may have suggested it, but I should've known you wouldn't be okay with that. I was a bad friend… and I'm really sorry. That's why I wanna make things right.”

Kieran could only stare in disbelief, with his eyes shifting from Ogerpon to Juliana and vice versa. All this time he'd been wrongfully accusing the first person to ever treat him with kindness, and yet here she was, blaming herself for something that wasn't entirely her fault to begin with.

The raven had spent so long thinking that the world was against him that he never once considered that just maybe, there were good people aside from his family who wouldn't make him feel worthless.

Man, he was a total jerk, wasn't he?

Still, he had to give her a response, otherwise she'd keep beating herself over nothing, and that just wouldn't do. “It's not all your fault… I shouldn't have tried to claim Ogerpon as if she was an object. She doesn't belong to anyone, same as with any other Pokémon…”

That was one of the first things he learned about Pokémon when he was a child—they were creatures meant to be respected, and had feelings that made them wonderful companions both on the battlefield and in their daily life. His first Pokémon was a prime example of someone who stayed by his side through thick and thin no matter what he went through—Furret.

Earning a Pokémon’s trust is the first rule for any trainer, and Kieran had completely forgotten all about it over his obsession.

Juliana could probably see the conflict of emotions swirling in his eyes, since she scooted closer and tried giving him a sympathetic smile. “Guess that means we both messed up? If anything, I think the important thing we do is learn from our mistakes. At least that's what my mom always says.”

Learn from his mistakes… Yeah, that's something he could work on.

“Pon-yo!”

Ogerpon once again made herself known, this time finally untangling herself from Kieran's leg and spinning around in circles with a huge smile on her face. If Kieran had to guess, she must have sensed that the duo of trainers needed a little something to cheer them up.

Unfortunately, the tiny Grass-Type must have miscalculated her velocity, since it only took a couple of twirls for her to fall on her behind with dizziness clear in her eyes.

Kieran and Juliana couldn't hold the snickers that escaped their mouths at the display. This felt… nice.

Almost completely turning back into her regular self, the brunette started rummaging through her basket one more time as she spoke eagerly. “Now that we got that outta the way, I was hoping maybe we could spend one last day at the festival before you guys have to head back tomorrow?”

Juliana pulled out both a small money pouch, along with an Ogerpon mask that she gently tied to the side of her head. When Kieran wouldn't stop staring, she sheepishly looked at the ground with a blush staining her cheeks. “O-Oh! Um, I bought this at one of the stands earlier. Figured it might be cool if we matched, maybe?”

How could she manage to be so cute without even trying?

A smile spread across his face, and for the first time that day, he didn't feel like he had to hide what he was truly feeling. “I…I like that idea. T-The festival, that is! As for Ogerpon, the only way I'd feel comfortable with taking her from you is with a trade.” Kieran could see her about to protest, but was quick to counter. “Later, though! It's already dark so if we don't hurry we're gonna miss all the cool shows and stuff…”

Juliana blinked a few times, but eventually her golden smile lit up the room as she nodded. “That works for me!”

The brunette left the room to give Kieran space to change into his own Jinbei, and the overall positive atmosphere that came out of her must have been pretty obvious since Kieran could hear her getting interrogated by Carmine and his grandparents through the door.

Thankfully she seemed to brush it off as things just going well and slipped her way through with a quick comment of going to Kitakami Hall. He'd have to thank her later for sparing him the embarrassment.

And so, there he stood, staring at himself in the mirror while fixing his hair and mask properly.

He had room to grow, that was for certain.

He had a long way ahead of him when it came to learning about friendships and giving others the benefit of the doubt. One thing was for certain. Perhaps not everyone in the world was out to get him—and the energetic, sweet, bubbly girl waiting for him outside his home was proof of that.

And so, as he rummaged through the various Pokéballs in his backpack, a gentle thump resonated in his chest as he finally found his beloved Applin among them.

Who knew? If he was brave enough, he might be able to go through with this very special trade he had in mind. He could only hope his feelings would reach the Paldean over this seemingly innocent gesture.

But there was no need to rush it—they had the whole night ahead of them.

✦ 𝐂𝐡𝐞𝐜𝐤 𝐌𝐲 𝐂𝐚𝐫𝐫𝐝 𝐓𝐨 𝐅𝐨𝐥𝐥𝐨𝐰 𝐌𝐲 𝐒𝐨𝐜𝐢𝐚𝐥𝐬!✦

#pokemon #pokemon violet #the teal mask #the indigo disk #dipplinshipping #dipplinduo #juliana x kieran #kieran x juliana #my stories

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