Chapter 4: Let's Rock the House!
In the last chapter, we saw the biggest change from the original remake I made. Due to reactions based on the original story, I removed Misty and Serena from stealing the Pokéballs and added new pieces to the Nebby and Lillie story. Well, most of this chapter will play out the same as the first time, with some variations. Let's get this chapter started.
We return to find our heroes as they have finally after a few days of venturing from the Viridian City Pokémon Center they're almost at the exit of the famous forest. A smell of sweat, mildew, and flowers permeates the air around our heroes. Even if they are 'thieves'.
Misty groans out hungrily "Aren't we out of this dark, hellscape that contains demons and nightmare fuel yet?"
The others seem to ignore her as they continue ahead talking.
Ash looking incredulously at Serena asks "Let me get this straight, you had your first official Pokémon battle and I wasn't there to witness it?" his eyes widened in shock.
Lillie comments "I mean technically Ash, you did the same with your fight against Team Rocket" as she remembers her 'battle scars' from the evening before.
Serena taken aback by lots of new information goes, "Hold up! I didn't have too much of a choice, he claimed he would help us find you two afterwards, you had a battle too, against criminals of all people" then she looks at Lillie's face for the first time as the light shone down upon her face and she sees clear indents. A reminder of what that feline did. Growing furious she then demands "And who or what in hell attacked you!"
The change in demeanour takes Ash, Lillie, Pikachu and even Misty by surprise. Of course, Serena often goes above and beyond to support and love her closest friends. Always kind, caring, gentle and compassionate. Only rarely does her fury break through her most lovely features. This is one of those times.
They stop walking at this point as Serena looks at Ash and Lillie, both in concern and rage.
Misty thinks to herself 'Uh, she looks beyond angry. Though I do wish they had this conversation once we escaped these woods'
Ash breaking the silence says "I found Lillie and Nebby by the base of a tree in the woods. Then as we were leaving to try and find you two, we were ambushed and captured by those thieves. They even used their newly acquired Pokémon, Venonat and Bellsprout that they stole from the Pokémon Center" stopping to take a few moments to catch his breath.
However, Serena pushes in questioning "And? What hurt our friend there?" she narrows her eyes as she glares into Ash's eyes. If he wasn't one of her closest friends, she probably would be even more outraged. Although that could be argued since obviously, Ash is someone who vowed to protect Lillie and herself from any threats.
Ash continues as he gets out "I was doing my best to handle their collection of Pokémon, (Ekans, Koffing, Venonat, Bellsprout, Spearow and Meowth), and while I was focused, Meowth snuck up from behind and slashed Lillie across the face. If it wasn't for Caterpie at the time, it would have been much worse" his gaze now downcast as he feels irresponsible for letting harm come to his shy delicate friend.
Glancing down to the boy's belt where his Pokéballs are, she responds "And she didn't get hurt any further than that?" as she finishes, she stares into his eyes.
Deciding to help her friend, Lillie responds "Nothing else happened Serena. I'm okay now, I promise. Ash did everything he could to protect me" as she moves closer to the honey-blonde female with concern evident in her gaze.
Serena's gaze softens as she lets out a "Good, then let's keep going" and with that, she turns around and walks to the city of rock, a Gym (of rock), a museum (full of rocks), along with… you guessed it! A watermill!
Ash thinks to himself as he internally sighs 'That was something else, Serena is usually this jovial and polite girl but if anything happens to Lillie or me, she goes ballistic and essentially goes for blood to protect us. She's cute but scary', as he thinks this he realises, 'Cute? Why would I think that about her? She's just my friend, right?'
Lillie watches him as she takes note of the rising reddened hue on his cheeks, thinking 'Is he blushing? From embarrassment or something else? I know he gets teased about like liking her, I wonder' a sense of both curiosity and something she feels deep down inside. Perhaps jealousy? Of course, she was interested in whether or not there was something between Ash and Serena, however part of her was afraid of being moved off to the side as less important to them both. Plus maybe… there's something else there too.
Misty eyes them strangely as she thinks to herself 'I do feel like the odd one out here. They seem to have known each other for many years by this stage, and yet here I am as a stranger of some sort. Maybe after this gym, I should try and make myself more involved. Plus they will be going to Cerulean City soon enough' as she feels nervous about what could happen soon after this gym is finished.
Serena kept her gaze ahead thinks 'I don't like sounding forceful or demanding with Ash, but Lillie is very important. So is he, but she's more vulnerable. Besides, I should start thinking about what Pokémon I should use. Bulbasaur is a guarantee, so Nidoran too?' she considers as she knows she should not use Weedle, as it would be easily destroyed.
Deciding to be a bit nicer, as she usually is, Serena asks the boy "So what Pokémon are you planning on using at the gym Ash?"
Taken aback by the sudden shift, Ash seems grateful more than anything as he responds "Rock-type gym leader, so between Pikachu, Pidgeotto and Butterfree I think Pikachu and Butterfree"
This confuses the Pallet native as she raises an eyebrow, questioning "Butterfree? Wouldn't it be better to use Pidgeotto, since Butterfree will be much weaker against rock Pokémon?"
Ash already having considered these possibilities, responds "I thought about that, and I came up with a realisation. Pidgeotto and Butterfree have about the same speed, however, Pidgeotto cannot do much against rock types. Butterfree, according to Dexter, has confusion, gust and bug bite after evolving. Plus supersonic is an option. But Pidgeotto wouldn't be able to deal much damage in his current state" he feels like he has genuinely thought this through and made the correct decisions.
Blinking a few times, Serena jokes "Wait. You're using your brain Ash?" as she tries and fails to suppress a laugh, which Lillie and Misty join in also.
Rolling his eyes, Ash states "And I assume you will be using Nidoran and Bulbasaur?"
Serena says "Yep, that's the plan. Nidoran seems to have learned enough to make it easier to use him. Then after the gym, I think I will focus on training Weedle as well"
Before anyone can respond Misty lets out a loud cheer, saying "There it is! The exit to this accursed place!" and with that, she runs off ahead in high spirits. Both because she can finally escape and because she just wants a shower and a proper bed for the night.
Ash tells the two blondes, "Welp, might as well go after her too", with that he jogs after the fisher.
With both of them letting out groans, they pick up their paces but don't start running.
Serena thinks to herself 'Running in this outfit in the dirt? Nope. Not happening. Never. Nada. Negatory. Not at all. Not by any means' while not a compulsive clean freak, she isn't the biggest fan of getting unnecessarily dirty.
But they all finally get to the clearing, to see… rocks, stones and an older man standing there watching them carefully as they walk out of the forest. He has a dark skin tone to the group with a brown hat covering much of his brown hair. Then has an odd-looking brown beard. Then has a light cream vest, dark green jeans, and black shoes. He greets them with a half-pleasant "Greetings kids"
Being polite and not wanting to sound rude, Serena responds "Hello sir. Are you the town keeper?" she jokes as she smiles slightly.
Letting out a short chuckle, the man responds "Guess you could call me that. My name is Rodger"
Ash introduces them "My name is Ash, and this is Pikachu," as he points to his electric buddy on his shoulder. Then points to the honey-blonde female "This is Serena" then points to the slightly older child saying "That's Misty and", lastly pointing to Lillie "This is Lillie"
Lillie and Misty give small waves to the roughened-looking guy.
Ash decided to continue with his monologue, saying "I and Serena are here to challenge the gym leader here for a badge. That way I can officially begin my dream of becoming a Pokémon master"
At this the man's smile disappears as he narrows his eyes, saying "If you think it would be easy to beat Brock, the Pewter City Gym Leader, you are foolish. You won't stand a chance against him"
Taken aback, Ash steps back and asks "Why do you say that? And what is with your change towards us?" he looks at the man defensively.
'Rodger' grunts as he turns away, not bothering to grant him a response.
Misty says "Come on guys, let's go. We can settle down and you can challenge Brock to a battle tomorrow" she suggests as she feels her body aching and still smells the sweat on her clothing.
The group started walking and Serena says "Well, what if Ash and I go to the gym today and I challenge Brock while you and Lillie get the rooms set up for later on?"
Confused by this, Lillie asks "Why me as well?" as she blinks at her friend.
Turning her head to the side, Serena replies "Since of course you aren't a fan of Pokémon battles and it would keep you busy while we deal with the battles"
Lillie considers this as she mulls the information over in her head 'Of course I don't want to see Pokémon fighting, but it will be a massive milestone for both Ash and Serena. And maybe it would be good to get out of my comfort zone at least a little bit"
Ash questions "Would that be all right Lillie?" as he notes her silence and seemingly deep thought.
Her eyes are aimed directly at her two closest friends, she says "Yeah that will be fine. I'll be good at the Pokémon Center for a few hours" as she internally screams at herself thinking 'Why can't you just get over this fear!'
So with that, they get to the Center. They approach the… same woman as the one from Viridian City?
Confused Ash asks "Why are you here now, Nurse Joy? Weren't you just in Viridian City last week?"
Chuckling, the doctor answers back "Actually no, I am the Pewter City Nurse Joy. The one in Viridian City's name is Nurse Naomi Joy. My name is Nurse Hillary Joy. She is my sister. But anyway, what would you like today?" she says trying to change the subject fairly quickly. Most likely gets the same reaction from most new trainers.
Serena thinks, ' So 'Joy' is the Nurse's surname? I guess that makes complete sense. Like how 'Oak' isn't the Professor's forename'
Misty answers politely "We would like to book some rooms for the night please"
Frowning, the nurse responds "Unfortunately we only have three rooms available. However one of the rooms has a double bed. Would that be fine?" she asks as she looks at the notes for the available room arrangements.
Serena tells the lady "Yes that will be fine, thank you, Nurse Joy. Lillie and I will be fine in the shared room together" as she says this, she glances at the shy girl as if for confirmation.
Her head shoots to the pink hat-wearing girl, as she nods her head to her buddy giving a small smile also.
With that, they each go to their respective bedrooms. Each one contains its own small toilet room, with an option to wash with the assistance of a sink. Misty of course gets straight to that and removes stuff to cleanse her body from the odour and dirt emanating from her.
Serena uses her washroom first as Lillie waits on one of the beds. Serena thinks to herself 'I would like to look nice for my first gym battle. And maybe impress' she cuts herself off thinking 'Why am I thinking like that? It's not like they would like me back. Plus I'm just being dumb'
Ash on the other hand just throws his top off and does a quick rinse of his upper body, changing into another pair of clothes. Almost identical. However, instead of light jeans, he now is wearing black jeans, a black top with a 'Subnoodle' face on the front of it (Look it up) a yellow glow to it. Other than that, it's more or less the same outfit.
They all put their clothing together, well Serena, Lillie and Ash do. Lillie's white attire is separate. Lillie is now wearing a short white nightgown with a light-blue lower half and frills at the top half as pyjamas. Misty is now wearing yellow shorts and a yellow top as her nightwear.
Ash and Serena leave the Pokémon Center, now with it being about five in the afternoon as they go around the city, looking for the gym. Misty and Lillie are left to handle washing all of the used clothing while their friends are busy.
While looking out for the building, Serena comments "Nice new jeans Ash. Maybe you should wear black more often" she jokes.
Smiling, Ash answers "It's nice to have a change in clothes, to an extent, every now and then"
However, Serena then brings up "But when and where did you get that shirt?" as she raises an eyebrow at the design.
Chuckling, Ash tells her "There's some YouTuber, called Patterrz, who makes videos on strange creatures called 'Animals'. They are similar to Pokémon, but look blander at times"
Blinking, she asks "What are 'animals' to us then? Also what… animal or person looks like that" as she points to the 'Subnoodle' design.
"See that's what's interesting. It is based off of a similarity to what they call a 'Panda' which seems to have inspiration from a Pancham or Pangoro. But for copyright reasoning or whatever it isn't a 'panda', it's 'Subnoodle'. And I got this cool designed shirt since I am a fan of his" he responds with a sense of happiness in his voice as he admires his merchandise for the made-up creature which is based on another made-up creature.
Serena responds "Isn't that a little lazy? Naming an 'Animal' after a Pokémon?" (Author's Note: Cue someone missing the point, that this isn't all going to be serious and plot all the time. But yes, do check out 'Patterrz' on Twitch and YouTube. Guy's awesome and NO I am not him).
It's at this point they burst out laughing and then and only then do they spot a building which seems to be the gym. A large building covered… in you guessed it. Rocks. Plus it says:
'Pewter City Gym. Gym Leader: Brock. Pokémon Type: Rock'
They both approach the door to the building. Then knock upon it in unison. After maybe fifteen seconds, the door opens. Out comes an older-looking man, maybe in his thirties as he eyes up the duo.
Serena introduces herself first "My name is Serena, from Pallet Town. I would like to challenge you to a gym battle Sir"
Ash jumps in to say "My name is Ash Ketchum, from Pallet Town, I would wish to challenge you another day, but be here for my friend"
The man looks between the two and laughs, saying "Well, for starters I am not Brock, nor am I the gym leader. My name is Mr Pokémon. My family live in each town or city which houses a gym and we assist the leaders in maintaining the gyms, upholding the expectations and responsibilities gym leaders have and helping trainers out. Assuming that this is your first gym, I present you both with a few things"
As he does this he hands them both cases, saying "Here is a badge case for you both. Does colour make much of a difference for either of you? We have, blue, pink, black and silver"
Serena happily says "We would like one blue and one pink please, Sir" as she says this and Mr Pokémon turns and grabs one of each of the desired colours. Serena smiling takes both and presents Ash with the pink one, winking at her friend with a grin.
Sighing, Ash accepts the gift and opens it up revealing eight slots for badges.
Not paying too much attention to the girl's antics, the official then says "Here are also Cherish Balls" as he hands them each one a red Pokéball. The sides of the balls are indented with black and a red horizontal line in the indents. The capture mechanism is red while surrounded by black.
The two trainers graciously accept the balls.
Mr Pokémon tells them "Those Pokéballs are to commemorate the start of your Pokémon League Gym Challenge" next he advises "I'd use water or grass on Mr Gym guy as a recommendation. Worst you could do is use bug, poison or flying. And electric? No chance, he'll rock your world," he says with a light laugh and heads off.
This last comment doesn't sit too well with Ash and Serena as they look at one another considering their options. Ash tells her "Don't listen to him, Bulbasaur and Nidoran will be just fine in that gym" with a smile.
Concerned, Serena states "It's not me I'm overly worried about. It's yourself, you haven't got much of any advantage in this gym you know. What if you used one of my Pokémon?" she offers him as an option to his growing woes.
Shrugging both her concern and offer off, Ash remarks "I'll be just fine in there tomorrow. Let's just go in there and get you your first badge" with a grin.
She relents and they step inside the building finally. After a few steps, the door behind them closes as what little light there had been, dissipates instantly. Disorientated, they take several steps forward as they struggle to discern what's ahead of them. That is until a low dim light becomes visible quite a ways ahead of them.
Now visible in the light is a young male sitting on a rock, cross-legged, seemingly meditating. Shortly after they hit a certain point, several illuminating floodlights come on from the high walls or possibly the ceiling.
The male stands up, staring them down. He has spiked brown hair and rather oversized eyebrows. Over a plain orange short-sleeved shirt is a green vest, which has several large pockets on the front. He has brown pants which have a black belt with a gold rectangular buckle attached with two brown belt pockets. Then his blue and white sneakers as well.
The guy, whom they assume to be Brock, declares "My name is Brock, the Pewter City Gym Leader. I specialise in rock-type Pokémon, which one of you is here to challenge me?"
Caught off guard by the authority in his voice, Serena meekly responds "I am Sir. My name is Serena, of Pallet Town and I would like to challenge you, Brock"
Glancing over at her friend, Brock asks "And what about you? A cheerleader? Spectator? Her boyfriend?"
This causes the two ten-year-olds to blush a deep shade of red, as Ash stammers out "No, no and no. I am Ash, also from Pallet Town and I would also like to challenge you myself"
Considering the boy's statement, Brock tells them "How about this then, I will battle you Serena now. And you Ash, I will battle afterwards. However, both matches will be one-on-one. Is this acceptable?"
Ash and Serena talk among themselves as they decide whether this change in situation could affect their strategy. After deciding whether or not the plan is worth it, they agree.
Ash takes to the bench off to the side as Serena gets into position in her standing area as Brock waits intently.
Brock then detaches a Pokéball from his belt and shouts "Go Geodude!" as he throws his device to the ground, out comes a grey boulder-like Pokémon. It has bulging, rocky eyebrows, trapezoidal, brown eyes and a wide mouth. Its arms are muscular with five-fingered hands.
Both Ash and Serena take out their Pokédexs to scan the rock type. Dexter says "Geodude, the Rock Pokémon, a rock and ground type. Found in fields and mountains. Mistaking them for boulders, people often step or trip on them. It climbs mountain paths using only the power of its arms"
Smiling, Serena takes out her Pokéball, sending out Bulbasaur. As the grass type comes out, it shouts its name as if as a battle roar.
Brock comments "The grass-type starter, Bulbasaur, is known to be fairly good against most rock type Pokémon. However, that will not be the case here. I allow you the first move, Serena" he offers with a gesture of his left arm.
Taking him up on his offer, Serena thanks him and then says "All right, Bulbasaur use Vine Whip!" as she orders this, Bulbasaur sends out two thin, dark-green vines from under its bulb and targets the rock type.
Brock commands, "Geodude evade, then use Rock Polish" the vines miss as the ground type rolls out of their way. Then as it comes to a stop, it slams both of its fists into the rocky ground, lets out a roar and its rocky body glows white. As this happens, Bulbasaur's vines retract back under its bulb.
Serena, sensing that she may be able to take advantage of the situation, tells Bulbasaur to "Run towards it while it prepares, then use Tackle Attack!" the grass type begins running at a fair pace and as it comes into range of the rock ball, it charges in for a slam. The rock type does not attempt to avoid the incoming move.
Bulbasaur connects throwing its side against the Geodude, as Serena says "Good job Bulbasaur! Now use a Headbutt against it"
Bulbasaur then slams its head against the rock type.
Ash says "that's it, Serena! Keep them on the ropes!" he says with a cheer as Pikachu joins in too.
However, that positivity vanishes from the two trainers and the electric type as they slowly realise something. No reaction from either of the moves.
Brock comments "Weak, basic moves like that won't affect Geodude! Now grab Bulbasaur and hit it with a Seismic Toss"
Still, near the Bulb of his foe, Geodude grabs a strong hold of the body of Bulbasaur and then quickly tosses Bulbasaur into the air several feet. However, Serena doesn't have time to issue a command, as the Rock Pokémon rolls against a few rocks which work almost like a ramp. The momentum of the gym trainer's Pokémon sends him flying into the air within grabbing range of Bulbasaur. Which it does, taking a tight grasp of the poison type and hurling it to the ground.
However, regaining her composure, Serena takes the initiative and tells Bulbasaur to "Use Vine Whip to keep a hold of him and slam him into the ground instead!" Bulbasaur immediately extends its previously retracted vines and sends them wrapping around Geodude. Then uses the momentum to turn with the rock type so that it was below himself. Which forces the rock type to be planted in a minor crater in the ground.
Bulbasaur then retracts his vines and jumps back.
Geodude struggles to get back up, still staring Bulbasaur down. However drops down to the ground, defeated.
Brock nods his head, walking over to his friend and Pokémon. He thanks Geodude and returns him to his Pokéball with a flash of red engulfing the Pokémon. Whereas Serena is speechless and dumbfounded. She doesn't know how to react after getting her first official battle win but also her first of hopefully many gym badges.
Ash, on the other hand, comes running over to the honey-blonde female, jumping onto her, and giving her a tight hug. Which only lasts long enough for her to smell his deodorant, and to feel strange in her stomach as he releases fairly quickly. He says "Congratulations Serena! That was awesome!"
Stilling thinking about the hug, she almost forgot about her win. Smiling, she sees her partner Pokémon coming over. She picks him up and says "Thank you so much Bulbasaur! That was incredible. You did amazing"
The two friends hear Brock's feet as he approaches them. Looking at Serena, he says "Well done, Serena, you earned this prize. I present you with the Boulder Badge" as he hands her a small, grey badge. It almost resembles a rock variation of a diamond when viewed from above.
She smiles as she accepts the award, thanking Brock. She then places it inside her blue gym case.
Brock then turns to Ash, and says "Are you ready to face me now?"
With a look of determination, Ash tells him "Yes. Yes I am"
Nodding his head, Brock walks back across the rocky field as both trainers take their respective places. Serena, after returning to Bulbasaur, sits where her friend had been previously.
Brock then takes out another Pokéball and tosses it, all the same, saying "Stand forth, my greatest Pokémon, Onix!" as the red light dies down, a large serpent-like creature stands opposite Ash. Onix is made up of a giant chain of grey boulders that typically vary in size, however, are smaller towards its tail. It has black eyes and a rounded snout. On top of its head is a rocky spine.
The best way to describe it? A massive rock snake.
The two trainers scan Onix with their Pokédexs, as Dexter informs them "Onix, the Rock Snake Pokémon, a rock and ground type. Onix has a magnet in its brain. It acts as a compass so that this Pokémon does not lose direction while it is tunnelling. As it grows older, its body becomes increasingly rounder and smoother"
Serena thinks about this dex entry 'A magnet inside of its brain? Even though Onix is a ground type and therefore is immune to electric attacks… couldn't that magnet still have some reaction to electricity? But not only that, I remember the professor mentioning something where a ground type can be affected by electricity… but what was that again?'
Ash, on the other hand, is staring in awe at the massive Pokémon, as he smiles saying "All right Pikachu! I choose you!" at this Pikachu runs onto the battlefield despite its reservations and fears about facing such an intimidating foe.
Brock scoffs at this as he tells Ash "An electric type? What good could that Pokémon do against Onix? It's in a weakened form" as he narrows his eyes at the raven-haired boy.
Ash counters "Pikachu will be able to handle this" at which Pikachu turns and gives a thumbs up to Ash.
Brock then tells Ash "Fine, make your first move"
Grunting at the man's bluntness, Ash tells Pikachu to use Thunder Shock. Pikachu obliges as he sends out a stream of electricity which strikes Onix's mid-section, with no effect.
Ash realises, that 'Ground is unaffected by electricity. Unless… what did Professor Oak say? The current and volt of the electricity would need to be stronger than the resistance of the ground against it. What does that even mean?'
Brock, not wishing to play games, says "Onix use Rock Throw" at this, Onix uses its tail to dislodge one of the rocks and then bats the rock towards Pikachu with said tail. As the rock hurtles through the air, Pikachu just barely manages to dodge the attack.
Ash thinking quickly says "Pikachu use Quick Attack to run up Onix!" as he realises what the Pokédex said. 'A magnet in its brain'.
The electric mouse begins charging at the rock snake and runs up the body of the beast.
However, Brock orders Onix to "Use bind" the rock snake quickly knocks Pikachu off of its body and traps him in between its body wrapping around the electric type. Pikachu cries out in pain as it is squeezed forcibly.
Ash panicking, tells Pikachu to use Thunder Shock. But again nothing. Ash doesn't know what to do as he freezes.
Serena stands up from the bench and tells Brock "On behalf of Ash and Pikachu, I declare a forfeit please Brock"
The gym leader looks to the girl, considering and then pulls out a Pokéball, saying "That would be smart" then aims the ball at his Pokémon saying "Onix, return" the snake is then returned to its ball after being hit by the red beam.
In shock, Ash demands "Why did you forfeit my match for me Serena!" even though it was a question, his fury made it seem more like a command.
Shooting him a glare, Brock tells him "Your friend did that because your Pikachu stood no chance against Onix. She did what was best, prevent your Pokémon from getting hurt"
Ash, despite his annoyance, realises that yes that is the truth. He runs over to Pikachu to check on him, asking "How are you feeling bud?"
Pikachu manages a small 'Pika' but is clearly in need of rest.
The honey-blonde female approaches him asking "Are you ready to leave Ash?" as her eyes are downcast. Of course, she isn't all too happy about being yelled at. She did what she believed was best.
Looking at Pikachu, Ash tells her "Yeah I'm ready to go" as he leaves ahead of her.
Brock watches them leave as he collects his belongings to go to the Pokémon Center himself.
The duo walk in silence. Serena feels bad but knows she did the right thing. Ash is disheartened by his first official battle ending in a loss.
As they get to the Center, Ash hands over Pikachu, and Serena hands over Bulbasaur. Then before Ash could go up to his room, Serena grabs his wrist and tells him "Hey let's go for a walk"
Despite not particularly wanting to, he complies as they leave the PokéCenter.
Glancing at her friend, she sees that his eyes are still downcast and in deep thought. She tells him "Hey, there's always tomorrow Ash. We just need a new strategy. But for now, let's try and relax instead of worrying about that"
He responds "I know you're right. And I'm sorry for yelling at you earlier Serena. You were only doing what was best for Pikachu. I stood no chance" however is cut off before he can continue further.
"Hey," Serena says as she purposely interrupts him, continuing "Not every fight will result in a victory, don't you remember the theme of that song? 'Whether we win or lose, it's the path we choose' it went something like that"
He tells her "It's called, 'Black and White' rather bluntly.
Serena smiles and suggests something "How about a dumb, silly little duet? We sing the lyrics to the song together?" as she blushes a light hue.
Glancing towards her, he grins slightly saying "Or we could just put the music on?"
Rolling her eyes, Serena tells him "Fine. I suppose it is late" as she pulls out the hidden MP3 player that she received for her recent birthday.
Shaking his head, Ash comments "Could you imagine what people would have thought if they did hear us singing?"
Laughing, Serena tells him "I mean I have a nice singing voice but you?" as she pulls a face before continuing "Probably not"
As Ash glares at her, he comments "You don't know that I may be better than you" as he grins despite knowing that it wasn't true.
Lightly pushing her best friend, Serena tells him "Well I guess we'll need to test that at some point then" as they share a laugh
As they are sitting on a small hill near the nearby museum which is shockingly still open by now, probably around seven at night, and they are just having fun.
Before much more can happen, they hear a commotion from near said museum. An older guy and a Pokémon. A fire type. The man is wearing black trousers and plain black shoes which are all mostly covered by a clay-coloured trench coat. Most of his head is hidden by a hat of the same colour.
The Pokémon is bipedal with a red body and yellow flame-like designs along the bottom half. It has a puckered, yellow beak, small eyes and two lumps on its forehead with a yellow flame on top of each one. Red scales seem to cover its arms and it has five, clawed fingers on each hand. Its shoulders and thighs are yellow and its red feet have two clawed toes each. It has what looks to be black, metal shackles around its neck and ankles. Down its back is a row of red spikes, and there is a flame at the tip of its tapering, yellow tail.
They rush down to see if they can help the man who seems to potentially need help.
Having not immediately seen the two of them, the man is about to grab a Pokéball of his own but is interrupted by the approaching footsteps of the two kids.
He turns his head slightly to assess who exactly is interfering in his efforts.
Ash and Serena rush forwards getting between him and the fire type. They quickly scan it "Magmar, the Spitfire Pokémon, a fire type and the evolved form of Magby. Born in the spout of a volcano, its body is covered by flames that shimmer like the sun. Its body always burns with an orange glow that enables it to hide perfectly among flames"
Ash tells the man "Hey we're here to help you out sir. Let's go Pidgeotto and Butterfree!" as he throws two Pokéballs the bird and butterfly Pokémon emerge from their balls.
Serena also sends out her Nidoran.
The male says "That won't be necessary…" but is swiftly ignored as Magmar spits flames forwards as the trio of Pokémon deftly avoid them.
Ash orders Pidgeotto and Butterfree to use Gust. They both start flapping their respective wings in unison at the Spitfire beast. It only seems to have a minor effect.
The fire type rushes forwards with its fist seeming to aim for Pidgeotto.
The guy tells them "Mega Punch"
Serena tells Nidoran to trip it up, to which the rabbit-like Pokémon runs out in front of the Magmar which ends up causing the fire type to fall to the ground. Clearly missing its hit. Serena tells Nidoran to go for Poison Sting then Double Kick. Once more the poison type complies. It sends a dart-like stinger at Magmar which seems to work in poisoning it. Then slams its hind legs at the larger Pokémon, twice. However, it seems to leave Nidoran with a burn as it winces.
Ash then tells Butterfree to use Sleep Powder. The bug flies above the fire type and drops plenty of powder over it. Which results in it going slump down on the ground. Ash then tells Pidgeotto to use Whirl Wind to get rid of it.
The old man stops him however saying "Wouldn't it be better to get rid of it permanently?" as he feigns being 'out of touch'.
Ash responds "I am not like that at all! It is incapacitated, that's all that matters. I will let Officer Jenny know, and she can handle it"
He responds, raising his hands "Won't be necessary, I'll handle it and make sure that Jenny is made aware of Magmar's threat" with a small smile on his face.
Serena tells Ash "That will be fine since we need to get Nidoran to the Pokémon Center and then let your Pokémon rest for tomorrow. Come on Ash" they both return each of their Pokémon.
He agrees and they walk away.
Baffled the 'gentleman' remarks "And that's the infamous Ketchum? He's weaker and more pathetic than I had expected" as he sends out a purple-shell encased Pokémon. Well, the actual Pokémon is the small, black, pearl-like Pokémon. Cloyster. It is encased inside a light-grey shell, which is surrounded by the aforementioned bigger shell casing. It has one barb-like spike protruding from above its head, and multiple conical horns on its outer shell. On its pearl-like face, it has two white eyes and a mouth.
"Magmar will often hunt down the one which harms it. It won't stop" the man says as he watches the fire type struggling to get to its feet.
"Freeze it" the man commands as Cloyster blasts off a beam of pure ice. Encasing the fire type. He then orders "Use Horn Attack. Shatter it" with that Cloyster lunges forward with its horn and shatters the ice. And Magmar to pieces.
The man then orders one of his grunts to "Clean up this mess" as he returns Cloyster and walks off.
A brunette watches this from a safe distance as she grits her teeth. She wanted nothing more than to go after the man and deal with him.
She whispers "I'll make him pay soon enough. He's too strong for me right now but soon I'll take from him what he took from me" as she clenches her fists. It had nothing to do with what just happened to Magmar, she expected as much from him.
On their way to the Pokémon Center, they run into Rodger.
Rodger remarks "And how'd your attempts go?" rather roughly.
Serena answers "I beat Brock" as she presents her Boulder badge proudly. Then continues "Ash will get his official chance tomorrow"
Rodger catches on and smugly asks "Official? You mean you tried against him and lost. That's what I told you would happen. But that's rather unimportant. Do you know why Brock fights like that?" he asks tilting his head to the side.
Ash responds this time "No, why's that then?" given the fact he assumed it would be because Brock is a gym leader, it would be self-explanatory. Maybe not?
"He takes care of his nine siblings after his good-for-nothing father abandoned him in pursuit of his selfish ambitions. The dad wanted to become a powerful Pokémon trainer and abandoned his family to do so" Rodger tells them as he seems to be too angry and overly invested in that situation.
"You seem to know a lot about Brock and his situation," Ash says suspiciously as he stares at Rodger.
Rodger feels panic rising inside as he thinks to himself 'Did he catch me out?'
However, that thought is dashed as Ash states "You must be a big fan of his!"
Rodger wanted to yell at the dense boy but refrains from it. Instead asking "What Pokémon did you challenge Brock with?"
Ash frowning responds with "Pikachu. And I realised that I could have had a massive advantage with Pikachu if he didn't catch Pikachu in a literal bind"
Rodger suggests "What about using moves that aren't just electric-type attacks? You could train him to use Double Kick, Counter, Defence Curl and of course Double Team or Agility"
Ash thanks him as he considers this. He and Serena leave Rodger, once more heading back to the PokéCenter.
Walking into the main atrium, they see the nurse with Pikachu and Bulbasaur's Pokéball. Then give over Nidoran's one explaining the burn effect.
Then Serena asks Ash "So what do you plan on doing tomorrow? With Nidoran out, he can't help with learning Double Kick"
Ash smiles at her, saying "I know what I need to do now. Thanks to your motivational moment earlier on the hill… I am ready"
Looking carefully at him, Serena smiles as well, telling him "Goodnight Ash"
He tells her "Goodnight Serena, and thank you" smiling back at her.
While Ash and Serena had been handling their gym badges or rather Serena earned her badge, Lillie and Misty had been keeping themselves busy. They had collected some essentials throughout the day.
Misty had asked her "How do you think Ash and Serena will do with their battles then?" as they walked along.
Looking down at the ground, Lillie thought to herself 'According to Serena, Misty stood up to whomever they met and was insistent on helping to find us. Serena seems to somewhat trust Misty so maybe I could too?'
Getting no response from Lillie, Misty decided to not say much more while they walked as she felt that Lillie just didn't want to talk.
Once they had finished collecting supplies they did go to their separate rooms. Lillie was always awkward around newer people and without Serena or Ash she felt more comfortable on her own. So she went off to her own bedroom as there were plenty of rooms this time.
The next morning, Ash, Serena and Pikachu now stand at the front of the gym once more.
Once more the two trainers and Pikachu walk into the building. Brock looks up in recognition. He asks "And you again? Why do you think you stand a chance against me, Ash?"
Ash responds calmly "I was given new motivation last night and I realised that just because I lost before, doesn't mean it will happen this time"
Brock notes that the boy does seem to be different this time. Not as cocky. Brock thinks to himself 'I humbled him clearly'. He then tells Ash "Fine. However today, it will be a two-on-two Pokémon battle. You will have access to two of your own Pokémon, while I use Geodude and Onix. So get to your zone Ash"
Ash complies as Serena also retakes her place on the bench. However this time, she notes an audience. Several children on the upper rafters. She thinks to herself 'They must be his siblings. Poor guy. However Ash did raise a good point, why did 'Rodger' seem to know so much about Brock and his family? I mean the obvious answer is that Rodger is Brock's father. Which yep adds up'
As they both are ready, Brock sends out Geodude first. Ash sends out Butterfree.
Raising an eyebrow, Brock asks "Butterfree? Why would you use a bug and flying type against rock types?"
Smirking, Ash tells him "Because I believe in my Pokémon and I know that Butterfree will try his best. So this time, I'll allow you the first move Brock" he offers as Butterfree flies around watching the rock with arms intently.
Focusing, Brock tells him "That was a mistake. Geodude, use Rock Throw!" the Rock Pokémon drives its fist into the ground and takes out a rock and throws it towards Butterfree, fairly quickly.
Ash tells the bug to dodge, which he does rather gracefully. Then tells Butterfree to use Gust to wear it down. As the winds pick up and a gust of wind is aimed at Geodude, Brock tells the rock Pokémon to use Defence Curl to weather the hit. Geodude tucks itself into a ball and absorbs the hit fairly well. Then Brock tells him to use Rock Polish. Once more, the ground type slams its hands into the ground as it glows.
Knowing he has only a short time, Ash tells Butterfree to use Sleep Powder. As Butterfree flies over the boulder-like creature, it drops powder towards it. Brock commands Geodude to use Roll-Out. Geodude does so and avoids the powder then builds some momentum.
By now the children are cheering Brock and Geodude on while booing Ash and Butterfree. They had watched many of Brock's previous battles and they always rooted for him.
Ash finally notices the children and realises that those must be Brock's siblings. However, Ash knows he cannot let that stop him. He also realises that power isn't going to work on Geodude right now. So he tells Butterfree to use String Shot. Geodude continues to avoid the move. However, Butterfree doesn't stop.
Then Ash remembers that small crater from the day prior. The one made by the impact of Bulbasaur and Geodude crashing into the ground. He tells Butterfree to aim it in that general area. Brock doesn't seem to be phased by, as he tries to figure out what Ash is up to.
Then smiling Ash tells Butterfree to stop and then use Supersonic in the assumed location of where Geodude would then be. And it hits the rock type effectively. As Geodude crashes into a rock upon its confusion, Ash tells Butterfree to hit it with a Mega Drain. However, as the bug type does so, Geodude rolls up into a ball again and slams into Butterfree with Roll-Out. The grass move still activates as energy is sucked from Geodude. But they both faint together.
Both trainers return their respective Pokémon to their Pokéballs as Brock asks "Why use String Shot? You could have used Mega Drain sooner, and your Pokémon wouldn't have been knocked out. That was an amateur mistake Ash"
Grinning, Ash doesn't answer the question but instead says "Go Pikachu, let's do this" as Pikachu steps away from Ash and runs onto the field to fight.
Then Brock sends Onix, the Rock Snake out too. Taking the opportunity, Brock tells the rock type to use Stealth Rock. The rock type causes rocks to erupt from the corners of the field to be raised.
Serena narrows her eyes as she considers this, thinking 'That is usually used for battles where there's two or more on each team. Why would he do that in a one-on-one?'
Ash thinks to himself 'Why would he have done that? I'm not switching. Unless' then it hits him. He tells Pikachu to use Quick Attack into Agility, which the electric type does. Pikachu runs towards the rock snake, which Onix instinctually goes to bat it away with its tail but Pikachu easily dodges thanks to the combination move.
Then Brock changes things up, as he tells Onix to use Dig. To which the large Pokémon burrows underground.
Ash thinks for a moment then realises that the only place Pikachu would be safe would be… in the tunnel too! He tells Pikachu to follow after Onix. This catches Brock, Serena and the children off guard. Pikachu obeys and jumps into the hole after Onix. For maybe nearly twenty seconds, the duo are under the ground until the ground type emerges. With Pikachu holding on to its tail!
Ash tells Pikachu to use Quick Attack to climb the hulking beast. Pikachu does so quickly reaching the head by running up the body. Before Brock can do much, Ash tells Pikachu to slam its tail down on Onix's head. Pikachu complies hitting Onix on the protrusion upon its head. Then Ash commands Pikachu to strike that spot with Thunder Shock.
Brock is taken aback by this as he tells Ash "Electric moves won't affect Onix. You're wasting your time!"
But regardless Pikachu blasts a bolt of electricity to the spot. And believe it or not, it seems to have an effect!
Shocked Brock questions, "How did that affect Onix?!"
Ash decides to tell him "There's a magnet in Onix's brain which I wondered, could attract a jolt of electricity. It seemed to do that" as he grins from his little experiment.
However, Ash takes his focus off the battle at this. Brock tells Onix to slam its tail into Pikachu. Onix listens and quickly manoeuvers its body to strike the falling electric type. It lands fully and throws Pikachu into one of the rocks set up by the stealth rock.
Brock then tells Onix to use Tackle. This causes Onix to slide over to Pikachu, which is exactly what Ash wanted. Onix starts to move slower and slower on its approach to the mouse-like Pokémon.
Confused, Brock looks closer and realises what has happened, thinking 'The String Shot! That's why he had Butterfree cover plenty of the field!'
Smirking Ash remarks "Finally it worked enough! Pikachu strike Onix with another Thunder Shock!" he commands. However, in the panic of Onix, it uses its tail to try and free itself from the slingshot. In the process, it results in its tail slamming into the suspended frame of the spectator area above Serena! It has a double effect. Due to part of the metal catching onto Onix's tail, it deflects Pikachu's Thunder Shock attack upwards towards the sprinkler system. But of course…
Ash rushes over to get Serena out of the way. Forgetting about the battle, he launches himself at Serena shoving her out of the way as the structural integrity falls through from the stands.
Serena screams out "ASH!" as Brock tells Onix to stop the battle now as he rushes over to the children. Due to the electricity striking the sprinkler system, it activates them. Water is now cascading throughout the room, drenching Onix, Pikachu and the people in the room.
Brock's siblings concerned rush downstairs. But Brock orders Forest to keep the others away while he handles this. Begrudgingly, he listens and makes the others listen.
Pikachu rushes over to check on its trainer as well. Then they hear a cough as part of the structure moves. They move to that specific part and lift it from the young trainer. Serena goes and helps him up. She asks him "Ash, are you all right?" with widened eyes.
The boy grins and tells her "I'm just fine. A little roughed up but I can still go" as he winces in pain.
Brock starts to say "I wouldn't recommend that. You're hurt"
He is cut off by Ash telling him "I may be hurt a bit, but Pikachu is fine" then he looks at Serena and asks "What about you? Are you okay?"
Dumbfounded and looking at her friend as if he is a nutcase, she hugs him telling him "You idiot!" as she starts to tear up, then continues "You saved me. Of course I'm fine. Come on let's leave" as she tries to walk him to the exit.
Ash stops her and says "No", then continues as he turns to Brock "I will continue this battle. Win or lose, this battle is receiving an official end"
Brock looks him in the eye seeing the passion the younger boy holds in his heart. Perhaps against his better judgement, Brock says "Fine. You get to go first" then he heads back across the field.
Ash only then realises the falling water and it hits him. He knows that with the magnet strategy and the dampness, a Thunder Shock may knock out Onix!
Ash tells Pikachu to use Quick Attack. As Pikachu starts running towards the rock reptile, Brock tells Onix to slap it away with its tail. Onix does so and connects with Pikachu. Except it makes the Pikachu disappear.
This shocks everyone in the room. Well everyone except Ash. He tells Pikachu to use Agility to storm up the rock Pokémon. Pikachu comes out from behind a nearby rock and runs up Onix. Then Ash tells Pikachu to use Thunder Shock. With that a crack of electricity comes charging from the smaller Pokémon and strikes Onix, taking the snake down. It doesn't make any effort to get back up.
Ash is declared the winner. Ash in shock too, questions "I won?" and then takes several moments to process this. He shouts "I WON!" then immediately grabs his side wincing in further pain.
Serena rushes over to him in concern and to congratulate him, saying "That was awesome Ash! But how and when did you swap Pikachu like that?"
Brock approaches them after thanking Onix and returning him to his ball. He narrows his eyes and says "Yes, I am wondering the same thing actually, how did you do it?"
Grinning, Ash says "I had Pikachu use Double Team while he was underground. I had the real one come out and do all of that. Then after that collapsed" he points to the scaffolding "the real Pikachu ran over but when the battle resumed, Pikachu hid in that crater made by Geodude and Bulbasaur yesterday"
This completely surprises the rest of them as they praise him. Brock then takes out the same badge that he gave Serena the previous day and presents it to him. Ash thanks him.
As they go to leave, the doors are thrown open as Rodger steps inside.
Ash asks "Rodger? Why are you here?" as he looks confused.
Brock chimes in saying "Rodger? I wouldn't be so sure that's his first name" as he feels fury raising in himself.
The old man says "You're right, Son, it's me Flint"
Glaring at the man, Brock demands "Why are you here?" as he grits his teeth.
Flint says "Because I did fail my dream of becoming a powerful trainer. But I was too ashamed and embarrassed to return here and face up for my actions. But now I am back so that you can leave and travel on a journey of your own Brock. To be a Pokémon breeder right?" he questions as he removes the hat and shock-horror a fake beard.
Brock responds "Yes that's true" he agrees as he tells Flint every little necessary and unnecessary piece of information to know what he will need to do.
Then Brock asks "Would you both be okay with me coming along?"
Ash tells him "We don't mind but we do have two others in our group. Misty and Lillie"
Brock asks "Do you think they'll be okay with it?"
Serena answers him "They should be fine with it" with a smile.
Like I said before, this chapter was more or less the same as before with alterations. Now, something I need to reread the other chapters about is a small detail most people wouldn't have noticed yet if I did my job correctly. Lillie doesn't have her signature big, white hat yet. That is by design as I have future plans concerning that and other stuff.
Now next chapter will be fairly altered from my original work. It'll be more anime accurate and have some features removed or changed. But because I am stubborn, there will be something some people may consider controversial still included. You'll know what I mean when it happens.