Chapter 12: Chapter 12
Ace stands in front of the mirror, adjusting his school uniform. The crisp white shirt and navy blue slacks are a stark contrast to his usual casual attire.
Pops enters the room, a warm smile on his face. "Looking good, Ace! You clean up nice."
Ace turns to Pops, a hint of nervousness in his expression. "Thanks, Pops. I'm kinda nervous entering a new school."
"Ah, don't worry! You'll do great." Pops gives Ace an encouraging pat on the back. "Midtown High is a good place. You'll make friends in no time."
Ace nods, taking a deep breath. He knows he needs to face this new chapter with courage, just like he's faced every challenge before.
Pops glances at the clock and gives Ace a gentle nudge. "Better get going, or you'll be late on your first day."
Ace nods, his expression resolute. "Right. Thanks for everything, Pops." He turns and heads out the door, making his way to the Trychaser 2000 parked outside.
With a rev of the engine, Ace takes off, the sleek motorcycle cutting through the city streets as he rides towards Midtown High School. His heart races with a mix of anticipation and nerves, but he refuses to let his anxieties hold him back.
Ace arrives at Midtown High, the prestigious institution standing tall before him. The sprawling campus is a blend of modern architecture and classic design, exuding an air of academic excellence. Students mill about the grounds, their laughter and chatter filling the air.
Ace takes a deep breath, his gaze scanning the crowd. He knows there's a high likelihood that Spider-Man attends this school, and the thought fills him with a mix of anticipation and trepidation. He wonders if the webslinger has already received the spider bite, or if the fateful event is yet to occur. Steeling his nerves, Ace makes his way towards the entrance, determined to face this new challenge head-on.
Ace navigates the bustling campus, his eyes scanning the crowd, when he accidentally bumps into someone. "Ah, I'm so sorry!" he says, his voice sincere.
The person he collided with is a young woman with a striking gothic appearance. She has dark, sleek hair and dramatic makeup, and her outfit consists of a black dress, fishnet stockings, and combat boots, giving her a brooding, edgy look.
"No worries," she says, her tone slightly sharp but not unkind. "I'm Nico. Nico Minoru."
"I'm Ace," he replies, offering a friendly smile. "It's nice to meet you, Nico."
Ace asks, "Are you a freshman too?"
Nico nods, "Yeah, I am." She pauses, then adds, "I'm supposed to go to the orientation today, but I'm not sure where it is. Do you want to go together? Since you're new here too."
Ace brightens at the suggestion. "That would be great, actually. I was just about to ask if you wanted to head there together." He gestures towards the bustling campus. "Lead the way?"
Nico gives him a small smile and nods, turning to make her way towards the orientation venue, Ace falling into step beside her. The two new students navigate the crowded hallways, both feeling a little less alone with a companion by their side.
Ace and Nico make their way through the bustling campus, both feeling a little more at ease with each other's company. As they walk, they begin to chat, curious to learn more about one another.
"So, Ace, what brings you to Midtown High?" Nico asks, her tone less guarded than before.
"Well, I'm actually new to the city," Ace explains. "I've been traveling a lot, but I'm hoping to put down some roots here." He glances at Nico, a friendly smile on his face. "What about you?"
Nico shrugs, a hint of a smile playing on her lips. "I've lived in LA my whole life. Midtown is a bit of a change of pace, but I'm ready for a new adventure."
The two continue to converse, discovering shared interests in art, literature, and even a mutual love for old movies. Ace is surprised by Nico's dry wit and perceptiveness, while Nico finds herself drawn to Ace's genuine warmth and curiosity.
Ace and Nico make their way to the gymnasium, where the orientation is taking place. They find a couple of empty seats and take their places. Suddenly, the guy sitting next to Ace turns to him with a friendly smile.
"Hey, I'm Humberto Lopez, but everyone calls me Berto," he introduces himself. Berto has a lean, athletic build, with short black hair and warm brown eyes. His casual attire, including a green t-shirt and jeans, gives him a laid-back, approachable vibe.
"Nice to meet you, Berto. I'm Ace," he replies, returning the smile.
Ace turns to Nico and gestures towards Berto. "Nico, this is Berto. Berto, meet Nico."
Nico offers Berto a small nod. "Nice to meet you."
Berto grins warmly. "Likewise! I'm glad to see some new faces." He glances between Ace and Nico. "You guys freshmen too?"
Nico rolls her eyes and says sarcastically, "No, we're just sitting here for fun. Of course we're freshmen, genius."
Berto scratches the back of his head sheepishly, realizing his mistake. "Right, my bad. Guess we're all in the same boat here."
Ace, Nico, and Berto sit together as the orientation begins. The principal takes the stage, welcoming the new students to Midtown High.
"I'm pleased to see so many bright faces here today," the principal says, scanning the crowd. "You are the future of this school, and we're excited to help you reach your full potential."
The principal goes on to explain the various clubs, sports teams, and academic programs available. Ace listens intently, eager to make the most of his new school experience.
As the orientation continues, the students are informed of their class assignments. Ace perks up when he hears his name called, followed by Nico's and Berto's.
"Looks like we're all in the same class," Berto says, grinning at Ace and Nico. "This is gonna be great!"
Nico rolls her eyes, but Ace can see a hint of relief in her expression. "Whatever, I guess it could be worse," she says, her tone laced with sarcasm.
Ace chuckles softly, already sensing the dynamic between his new classmates. He wonders what adventures and challenges await him at Midtown High, but he's determined to embrace this new chapter with an open mind and a willingness to grow.
As the orientation concludes, Ace, Nico, and Berto gather their belongings and prepare to head to their first class together. Ace can't help but feel a sense of anticipation, eager to see what the future holds.
***
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Advance chapters are in my P@|r3on - Najicablitz