Author's Note:

Here it is, the first Brock focused chapter of Hoenn. This takes place over the days leading up to the others travelling towards Petalburg. I wanted to pull a twist on that old evil stepparent cliche. Of course, the actual episode this is based off called her Brock's actual mother but being completely honest, they share no resemblance to each other, so in my series she is his stepmother. I don't want to give away how before the actual chapter so I'm just gonna stop here but remember a previous poll concerning Sudowoodo mother. Well this is the results; I want to get the audience involved more and this is just a start. Don't forget to vote in the poll and with that, let's begin.

Chapter four: Sins of the Father

Brock took a deep breath, as he stood atop the hill overlooking the city of Pewter. A smile formed on his face as he took in the sight of his hometown, seeing the newly renovated museum shining at the back, breathing a new breath of life into the old town.

Turning towards the side, he saw his team sat next to him. Steelix, Stantler, Forretress, Shuckle, Magcargo and Delibird. While many of them have been here already, they haven't seen past the gym or his family home. After leaving the others at Viridian city, he decided to travel with his team. He has gotten use to travelling in such a big group that it felt wrong, being just by himself. Sure, it took longer for those like Magcargo and Shuckle but it's about the journey.

"Man, it feels good to be back," he sighed, a series of cries and nods accompanying the statement, "I'm sorry guys but we probably don't want to scare the people in town. I'll let you out when we get home."

He smiled at them and one by one recalled his team. When all were secure and around his belt, set off down towards the city. As he walked through the dirt path, he smiled as passed by many of the residents. Even if he's been away for a while, he knew many of them from his days as a gym leader. A smile stuck on his face as he greeted them as passing.

Finding himself standing outside of the family gym, from what he knew, Forrest spent most of his days here. He really wanted to see him as soon as, even if he loves all his siblings, he always shared a special bond with his oldest. Besides, it's the best place to leave a lot of his team, especially Steelix.

Taking in a deep breath, the fresh mountain air stirred up a powerful hit of nostalgia. Stepping forward, he reached for the handle and pulled it open. Walking down the dark corridor he took in the familiarity of the old place. For a few years, he hated this place but now that it's not his job, it does have a certain charm that he didn't originally notice. A slight ruckus caused him to stop and his pure ground type popped out of the ground in front of him.

"Dugtrio?" he questioned, smiling as he kneeled down. Scratching him on top of the head, "hey buddy, how are you?"

"Dug Dugtrio," he cried out.

"Huh?" Brock questioned, "is something the matter? And... what's that smell?"

"Dugtrio," the mole Pokémon nudged on his leg, clearly trying to push him towards the main battle room.

Not waiting another moment, he stood up and walked forward. His ground type followed by his side, showing clear signs of anxiety. The scent of fresh water filled his nostrils. It was almost like he was walking into a fresh spring waterfall. Picking up his pace, he burst through the doors into the battlefield.

His eyebrows pulled together as he scowered the once rock field. What he saw was horrifying. The rocky walls were covered in a series of pink stripes and poke dots of the same pink colour with yellow added in. It looked like his youngest siblings went wild with their crayons. But that wasn't the worst part, not by a long shot. On the far side of the field, which was nothing but a large creator instead of the rock-covered field that was once there, was a women, barely in her thirties stood with a Blastoise, Gyarados and Vaporeon, who were filling in the creator with water and some form of water jet. She had medium length brown hair, curled up into a circle at the back. In a pink sleeveless summer top and a long white skirt.

"What's going on!" he cried out.

The water types stopped their moves at the eruption and turned to look at him. He locked eyes with the women, who stared at him for a moment, a smile broke out as she skipped around the side of the field. He wasted no time in storming around towards her.

"Oh, you must be Brock-y," she cooed, "Flint has told me so much about you."

"I don't know who you are," Brock growled, "and you certainly have no right to be destroying my families gym."

"But Flint-y said it was alright-" she tried to reply.

"Get out!" he yelled, not wanting to hear it. Tacking a Pokéball off his belt, "go Steelix!"

In a flash of light, the large metal snake appeared behind him. With a mighty roar, he loomed over everyone else, scowling down over everyone, with all of the water types stepping back apprehensively. Even the Gyarados seemed intimidated by him.

"Use dig and drain this pool!" Brock commanded. Leaping up into the air, his starter dived into the pool disappearing from sight.

The water soon disappeared, revealing a small hole, and leaving only a few puddles over the rocky ground. His steel ground type erupted out of the hole once more. A large rock filling in the hole. Still looming over most despite being stuck in the bottom of the creator.

"Dugtrio, Steelix, fill it in once more," he instructed, as his pure ground type joined his starter, turning towards the women, "and as for you, get out of my gym. As of right now, you are trespassing. Now get out, before I make you."

"Brock-y, let's just talk this out," she pleaded.

"I have no idea who you are, but I meant that when I said I'd make you leave," he growled, turning towards the back rooms where most of their Pokémon stayed, "Golem!"

A shaking vibrated across the ground as the metal doors burst open, his first caught Pokémon rolling across the floor at a fast pace. He came to a stop next to the breeder. Exiting his roll and standing up like some sort of bodyguard. A smirk spread across his face and glint in his eye.

"Get them out of here!" he ordered.

His first caught Pokémon moved forward and forced the women back. She didn't put up much resistance, walking back and recalling her water types. He couldn't bring himself to watch as his magnitude Pokémon escorted her out of the building. Once they were out of sight, he sighed and relaxed. While he rarely gets worked up, this sort of thing could have the gym closed down if an inspector saw. Whoever that women was, she had no right endangering Forrest dream like that. He'll be sure to get to the bottom of this but first he needs to clean up the walls.

He looked towards the field, which was more of a sandpit with both his Steelix and Dugtrio on top. That will have to do until he can have it properly fixed into the more tradition rock field. Movement caught his eye and he saw several more Pokémon walking out of the metal entrance Golem opened. Namely, his Crobat, Rhyhorn, Omastar and Sudowoodo. A faint smile formed on his face as they came into view and surrounded him.

"Hey everyone," he greeted, "I missed you all. While we catch up, could you all help with cleaning these walls?"

A series of cheers were his answer and he let out the last of his team to join in. With a pile of sponges and soapy water buckets, they began clearing off the paint smeared over the walls. Although Omastar opted to do power-cleaning by spraying the walls with powerful jets of water. Crobat made a quick check on his first caught, mainly because Golem was taking a while, but he opted to stand guard outside the gym in case they returned and Magcargo, unable to effectively clean the walls, went to keep him comfortable. It took nearly three hours but eventually, the walls were back to the plain-rock appearance.

"And done," he sighed, slumping down next to the wall. He soon found a weight thrown at him, as Sudowoodo engulfed him in a hug. Smiling, he gladly returned the gesture, seeing Crobat flying back with both of the guards from outside, "so what's been happening guys? Who was that women and why didn't you stop her before?"

"Trio, Dugtrio," his pure ground type replied.

"If you really think its best Forrest explain it," Brock smiled, scratching the ground type on top of his head, "where is he, anyway?"

"Cro," his poison flying type spoke up, "bat."

"Alright then, I'll follow you," he smiled, "standing up. Now I know all of you want to stay with me, but I don't feel comfortable leaving the gym unattended until we get to the bottom of this. So Steelix, Forretress, Shuckle and Magcargo, would you all mind staying here for the night?"

All three nodded in agreement. Giving a small thank you, he set off out of the gym.

Riding on the back of his Rhyhorn, with Omastar riding atop the horn Pokémon's head, he looked either side to see Dugtrio, Stantler and Sudowoodo. With the cool night sky overhead, Delibird was flying around in a playful manner, as Golem and Crobat lead the way. He soon realised that he was being taken to the path towards mount moon, where they could overlook the entire city of Pewter.

It felt a little awkward having such a large group, but it wasn't technically against any rules. He left most of the Pokéballs back at the gym and they all came with him on their own accord. One thing was for sure, no-one would be messing with him, whilst everyone was around.

As they came to the top of the trail, Brock saw his brother sat on the ground against a lone tree. A branch was in his hand and he was swirling it around in the dirt. His Rhydon was sat beside him, almost completely blocking him from view. They came up to a slow trot, stopping next to him, as his shadow covered the pattern he seemed to be drawing in the dirt. He looked up and a small smile formed on his lips.

"Hey Brock, when did you get back?" Forrest asked, engulfing him in a hug.

"A couple hours ago," he replied, returning the gesture, "I first visited the gym. I thought you would've been there."

"Oh," he uttered, ending the embrace. Stepping back, he turned towards his own Rhydon who stood up and placed a supportive hand on Forrest's shoulder, "I guess you saw what was happening over there."

"Yeah," he sighed, stepping forward Brock placed his own hand on his brother's shoulder, "there was a women turning the field into a pool and there were these silly scribbles all over the walls. I was able to fill the field with sand until we can properly fix it and cleared of those paintings. Its why we took so long."

"That women is dad's new fling," Forrest spat, "Lola. She's the worst. They've barely been together a month and he's already talking about handing her the gym leader role."

"He can't do that," Brock declared.

"Doesn't mean he won't," Forrest sighed, "when he came back, I thought he'd focus on being an actual father... and for a bit he did, but then he started dating and-"

"I see where that's going," Brock sighed, "he always did have one weakness, in one respect."

"Worst part," Forrest slumped down, "we was actually growing close. I thought I could finally forgive him for leaving after mum-"

His little brother broke down in tears and he kneeled behind him. Engulfing the spiky haired teen in a hug, Brock rubbed his arm in a soothing manner, as the tears fell onto his chest. He never really spoke about his mother, other than himself, only Forrest was old enough to remember her.

"It's okay, Forrest," he soothed, "I know dad let us down, again, but he won't give away your gym. It's what mum would've wanted."

The gym was originally from their mother's side, having been passed down for several generations. Flint may have been the leader but that's because their grandfather passed it over to him, when none of his own children wished to continue the legacy.

"B-but what about Lola a-and-" Forrest stuttered.

"Don't worry about them," he reassured, "your big brother Brock isn't going to let them do anything. Dad has hurt us all enough, and it's going to stop."

"Thanks Brock," he replied, "you're the best brother anyone could've ask for."

"You never need to say thank you, Forrest, not to me," he smiled, standing back up, "that's the benefit of having a big brother. Now, let's go home."

Smiling his little brother stood up, recalling his Rhydon and leading the way. A lot of his Pokémon opted to return to the gym, since the house is barely big enough for the family as is. Only Crobat, Stantler and Delibird remained by his side.

As they took each step towards the family home, Brock entered a deep thought, a frown replacing his usual welcoming expression. He already knew what he would have to do to stop this madness... but it comes with a great risk. The question, will their father act like a proper dad and do what is right for the family or will he put a bit of skirt before his own flesh and blood?

Brock and Forrest walked across the city of Pewter, the large moon lighting the night sky. As they came around the corner towards the family home, the breeder stopped in his tracks as he took in the sight. The once cobbled pavement and rocky exterior was replaced with large rows of hedges, surrounded with pink flowers and bright green leaves. If he had to make a comparison, he would say the garden looked like some competition winner.

"What am I looking at?" he asked.

"This is all Lola's work," Forrest growled, "and she claimed that this was just practise for what she'll do to the gym's exterior."

"There's a hedge," he uttered.

"I know," his little brother replied.

"And flowers," he added.

"I know," Forrest repeated.

"And-"

"I know," Forrest cut him off, "now can you see why she's the worst?"

"Well it certainly looks..." he struggled to find the right word, "different?"

"Lola repaints it every three months," Forrest sighed, as they walked over and stepped inside of the family home.

Stepping inside of his home, he was happy to see some of his siblings as the first thing. Salvadore was slouched against a hallway wall, bouncing a tennis ball against the adjacent wall, and catching it. He turned towards him and a bright smile overtook his face.

"Hey it's Brock!" he cheered.

"Hi Brock," Tommy added popping his head out of the closest door on the right, "everyone come quick, Brock is home!"

Further up the hallway, the door on the left opened and his oldest sister, Yolanda, stepped out along with Cindy. The two ran up and engulfed him in a massive hug which he happily returned. Looking to the top of the stairs, he saw Ninetales running down with Billy and Tilly riding on her back. Suzie and Timmy watched from the top of the staircase. Smiling at them, he kneeled down and greeted his pure fire type with a scratch on the head as his two youngest twins tackled him in a separate hug.

"Hey, I missed all of you," he laughed, "there's plenty of Brock to go around."

A slight ruckus from the room on the right drew his attention as he stood back up. Turning towards the source, he walked into the room and found his father holding some sort of framed artwork up against the wall, as the women from the gym stood back.

"Maybe a little more to the left," she uttered.

"What is that?" he asked.

"Nice to see you too, son," Flint smiled, clearly struggling to keep the art level.

"What do you think of this painting?" the women asked.

"That's erm, art?" he asked.

"It's a Smeargle masterpiece," she smiled, turning to face him fully, "I found it at a sweet little market. I'm becoming an art connoisseur."

"And here I thought Tilly did it with a crayon," he deadpanned, "anyway, dad, we have something to talk about."

"Can we not do this here, Brock?" he sighed.

"No, we will do it here and now," Brock replied, "the sooner its out in the open, the sooner we can have it resolved."

"Fine," he shook his head, "Brock, you had no right to kick Lola out of our family gym earlier. She-"

"I had every right," he cut him off, "she was the one with no right. No right to destroy our field, use the walls as canvases or anything else."

"I gave her permission to-"

"Which you shouldn't have done!" Brock raised his voice, "you had no right to do that. You know as well as I do, that such changes need approval from both the PLA and deed holder of the gym. Neither of which you had, since Kanto already has a resident water gym in Cerulean."

"I am gym leader, deed hold of Pewter gym!" Flint declared.

"You maybe gym leader but you are no deed holder," he replied, "remember when you left? I was forced to take over the role as leader from just after my fifthteenth birthday. Those months before I was officially old enough to hold the position were some of the most tense in my life. So, when I turned sixteen, the first thing I did was apply to have the deed changed into my name. At least afterwards if we had an inspection, everything would be up to order."

"You would've needed my signature to do such a thing," Flint uttered.

"At least you got that point correct," Brock sighed, "but we had no idea where you was so instead, I had to fake it. Found an old letter you never posted and used that as a template. Since that day, the Pewter gym has been under my name, even after you took over as gym leader."

"You can't be serious," his father growled.

"I am," he replied, "I've got all the paperwork in my backpack. I never would've left it lying around and so you may be gym leader, but I own the gym. No way am I having your new fling take over as leader, she hasn't even passed the assessment the league requires."

"Are you threatening me?" he asked.

"Call it the benefit of hindsight," Brock growled, "I would rather hand it back to the league before I let that happen."

"Son, let's just talk this through like adults," Flint stepped forward, "you know I'm no spring Torchic. The leader position would be best handled by-"

"You're going to turn the gym into a laughingstock, dad!" Forrest yelled, running out of the room, and slamming the front door.

"Look at what you've done," Brock shook his head.

"Forrest will come around," he sighed.

"He won't because there is nothing to come around to," Brock walked over towards exit, "you have really messed up this time."

"Brock... if you don't accept the changes that will be made then I have no choice," Flint took a deep breath, "I challenge you to the deeds of the Pewter gym."

He stood still and looked towards his father, despite his stoic expression, his mind was anything but. "Fine, tomorrow at noon. Be ready."

Not waiting for another response, he turned and walked out of the house. He didn't need to guess hard about where his oldest brother would've gone, and quickly set path towards it. Just when he thinks his dad has changed and everything will be fine, he pulls another stunt like this.

Brock stood in the middle of the newly built rock field. He had both his fire types help melt the sand over with Omastar quickly cooling it off. Finally, his Golem built several rock pillars across the field, making it as good as new. All of his Pokémon made up the seating area, except for the few he planned on using in the battle, as Forrest stood beside him.

The double doors at the entrance opened and the bright sun blinded out the details of those visitors, not that they needed to guess. Two shadow silhouettes walked forward and as they stepped into the main field, stood in front of the brothers were none other than Flint and Lola.

"Are you sure you want to do this, son?" he asked.

"Don't call me that, you'd need to be a father for me to be your son and you have been no such thing," he growled, "and it was you who forced this. No one else. This gym is our last connection to our mother, and you want to give it away for a piece of cheap skirt."

"Brock, you will show Lola some respect," Flint stepped forward.

"Do you want to know what I leant whilst on my journey?" he asked, "respect has to be earnt. And from where I'm standing, both of you are in debt."

"Honey, hold on-" Lola tugged on their father's arm.

"Not now," he shrugged her off, walking over to the trainers box, "if that's how you want it, Brock, so be it. What sort of battle will this be?"

He looked towards his brother and nodded. Forrest made his way over to the remaining trainer's box, as he took up a spot on the referee stand. His eyes locked with his father, who seemed surprised at the placement.

"Hang on, this was meant to be between you and me," Flint tried to argue, "I do not want to fight my trainee."

"It was, but as the name holder of the gym deed I can appoint anyone I wish to battle on my behalf," Brock explained, "I choose Forrest, who shall take over as leader when of age. Of course, your forbidden from using any of the gym registered Pokémon. As they fall to the deed holder before leader."

"Why are you doing this?" Flint asked.

"You know why," Brock yelled, "unlike you, I put my family above everything else. And I also have too much respect for the gym and everything it stands for; I would rather watch it given back to the league and a new leader moved in before you use it as a pick-up line. Now get ready for the round, it'll be a best of three battle."

"I'll choose first! Go Steelix," Forrest declared, launching his own Pokéball into the air. Brock smiled as he felt his own starter smash onto the field, looming over everyone present, letting out a loud roar. It was a little nostalgic despite the difficult circumstances.

"Fine then, guess I really don't have a choice," Flint sighed, pulling out his first Pokéball, "Golem, let's go!"

In a flash of light, his father's first Pokémon appeared on the field with a heavy thud. Slamming a foot down on the ground, it shook the field like a mini earthquake, pounding his arms against his chest in an intimidating manner. Brock noticed his own Golem in the stand tense up, he always wanted a chance to battle his long-term rival but with the plan made last night, Forrest already had an answer for it.

"Okay, this will be a battle for the deeds to the Pewter gym," Brock declared, "it will be a best of three battle where neither side can switch out during the rounds. Any attempt to do so will be classed as loss for that side. The victor of this will be decided by the first trainer to win two out of three battles."

"Remember Forrest, you can call this off at any time," Flint called out, "despite what Brock's told you, you know that I love you son."

"Brock hasn't told me anything I haven't been shown by you," Forrest called out, "and we're not going to let you fool us into thinking otherwise. Actions speaks louder than words."

"Couldn't have said it better myself, Forrest," Brock smiled, raising both arms up, "now Steelix verses Golem. Let the battle begin!"

Forrest verses Flint: Round One

He watched his starter let out a loud roar and dive straight down. His head shining with a metal shine as he smashed into their opponent. The megaton Pokémon was knocked backwards. The metal snake continued onward, digging a hole underground.

Rolling on his back, Golem entered a full rollout, clearly limiting the impact. He made a tight turn and continued rolling across the field.

Using a rock in the field, he leaped high into the air. Uncurling from the rollout, he entered a tense fall towards the field, clearly intending an earthquake.

Cracks formed in the earth and Steelix leaped high out of the ground. With an open mouth, he crunched down on him and sent Flint's starter flying.

"Heh, I guess you had that already planned?" Flint asked, his starter landing just in front of him.

"Right," Forrest replied, "we knew you'd likely use Golem, so we came up with a plan last night. We even practised against Brock's Golem to make sure it'll work! And there's plenty more where that came from!"

"Well unfortunately for you two, my Golem knows a lot more than either of you could count on," Flint replied, "now Golem, time to bring the heat!"

Steelix roared and raised his tail. It glew white as he slammed it down on the field. A series of rocks went flying across the field.

Golem walked forward and took a deep breath. He released a bright orange flame stream out of his mouth. The rocks smashed against him, as his arms raised up and took the hits. His flamethrower went forward and struck the metal snake head on, causing him to cry out in pain.

"Steelix use Dragon breath to count it!" Forrest cried out.

The iron snake Pokémon cried out and swung his head around. A dark blue flame shot out of his mouth and it struck the flamethrower.

Each attack battled back and forth, evening out between the two Pokémon. Neither side let up as Steelix adjusted his stance after the flames.

Flint's rock ground type raised a foot down and it slammed into the field. A crack spread out across the ground and over underneath Steelix. A cloud of steam shot out first as molten lava erupted around him.

Cancelling his dragon breath, Steelix cried out in pain. The flamethrower engulfed him completely.

Ending his combination attack, Golem leaped forward and entered another rollout. Smashing into the steel ground type, they went flying backwards.

Landing on his back, Steelix was covered in burn marks. His eyes were open, and he tried to push himself up after the impact.

While the megaton Pokémon went rolling back around. Picking up speed as he charged around the field, smashing into his opponent's.

Stumbling at the second impact, Brock's starter grimaced. He wanted to call out some help, but he knew that it would disqualify his brother. Sometimes being the referee could really be a difficult job since they are meant to be unbiased and fair when ruling.

"Steelix, he's coming head on for another hit!" Forrest called out, "use Screech to knock him off!"

Flint tried to call out a counter but was too slow.

The rock ground type charged forward straight towards the iron snake with incredible moment. Steelix took a deep breath.

He unleashed an ear-bursting screech as soundwaves could be made out. It struck Golem head on, who wobbled back and forth over the field. Veering off from his path, he ended up smashing into the wall behind him. Uncurling from the impact, he was shaking side to side as he walked backwards.

Steelix sent his tail after the megaton Pokémon. With a mighty iron tail, he sent Golem flying upwards.

It struck the wall higher up, but Flint's starter kicked off. Spinning around, he landed square on Steelix's head, delivering a powerful earthquake into him. The steel ground type collapsed onto the floor as Golem walked off.

"Steelix is unable to battle," Brock sighed, raising an arm up in his father's direction, "making the winners of the first round Flint and Golem."

Brock could only watch as his little brother recalled his starter. While Steelix held a clear advantage over their opponent, he lack any major experience. He has hardly been in serious training since Brock's time as leader, they knew it was going to be tough regardless of their strategy. Looking towards his father, he saw him congratulating his starter. They knew he was Flint's strongest Pokémon and would be their biggest obstacle to overcome.

"As Forrest revealed his Pokémon first - last round, Flint will be the one to reveal his first now," Brock declared, "so remove Golem from the field and get to it!"

"Gah!" Flint cried out, "okay, okay, no need to get in a mood about it. What do you say, Golem, want to join the others and watch?"

"Golem!" his rock ground type cheered, walking over towards the others. Standing next to Lola, who was keeping her distance from the Pokémon as she chewed on her thumb with a worried expression written on her face.

"And then I'll use Sudowoodo," Flint declared, releasing the pure rock type. She appeared on the field and stood tall.

A smirk formed on Brock's lips at the sight, she was officially registered to their dad instead of the gym until she decided who to stay with. After all, Flint only had three Pokémon registered solely to him and not the gym, so it made picking a team to face him that much easier. While Sudowoodo was strong enough to even make Paul hunt her down, he knew she had a stubborn streak with battling and if they picked the right opponent then she would refuse point blank.

"Then I'll go with our own Sudowoodo!" Forrest smirked, tossing the device into the air. In a flash of light, the smaller pure rock type appeared.

Of course, he made sure to check with his sudo-brother if he was fine with the plan he was. If previous encounters when she was under Paul were anything to go by, it wouldn't take him long as a ref to discover her refusal to battle. Some might call this a dirty tactic but all's fair in love and gyms.

"You're really something Brock," Flint shook his head, "first you make me battle Forrest and now your making Sudowoodo face her own son."

"Sudowoodo verses Sudowoodo," Brock smirked, seeing the mother stood sideways instead of head on, "let the battle begin!"

Forrest verses Flint: Round Two

"Alright Sudowoodo, let's start by building up your defences," Forrest instructed, "Defence Curl!"

He watched his brother-like Pokémon tense up and cross his arms over his chest. A dim light surrounded him as his defence rose.

"We have to stop them before it's too late!" Flint cried out, "charge in and knock him out of focus!"

The mother refused to move.

Brock cast a glance towards his own imitation Pokémon and inwardly smirked. He continued in his curled up, tensed, position. While not quite maxed out, he knew that he was getting there. Another glance towards the mother and she hadn't budge, despite his father's cries to action.

"I'm issuing a yellow card to the challenger for deed, Flint, because his Sudowoodo isn't following commands," Brock declared, "one more and the match will be called in favour of his opponent."

"You knew she wouldn't battle her son," Flint accused, "you planned this from the start."

He looked towards his own pure rock type, who stood up having maxed out his defence. A smirk found its way onto his lips as his little brother nodded.

"Alright Sudowoodo, let's make this quick!" Forrest declared, "use Body Press!"

The young rock type nodded and took off across the field. An orange-red outline surrounded him as he closed in on his mother.

Taking a deep breath, he watched closely as Flint cried out for her to dodge. She still refused to move. Not wanting to put his own Sudowoodo through the pain of attacking his mum and having seen enough as a referee, he raised an arm in Flint's direction.

"Flint's Sudowoodo refuses to battle, and thus forfeits the round," Brock declared, "making the winners of this round Forrest and Sudowoodo."

His rock type, dived to the side and made a dodge roll beside his mother. Landing on one knee, he looked towards her and gave a wink as she released a breath and placed a hand over her chest. The two stood up and walked back over to the stand.

Brock smiled as he saw the mother and son converse whilst surrounded by his other Pokémon. He knew that the mother wouldn't think twice about refusing to battle if facing her son. Of course, his own Sudowoodo wasn't fond of the idea either but he played along just enough to have her disqualified.

"Alright, guess it's my turn to go first again!" Forrest declared, "so, go Rhyperior!"

In a flash of light, a large, brownish-grey Pokémon with two horns: one on his nose, and another one above it. The upper horn was actually quite large. He had a club-like tail, and his hide was partially covered by orange, rocky plates. He had blade-like protrusions on his elbows and had holes in the palms of his hands. He also appeared to have two thick, rectangular rocks above his eyes, resembling heavy eyebrows. Stamping his truck-like legs down on the ground, he let out a loud battle cry, taking up a strong battle stance.

"Rhyperior?" Flint questioned, "so Rhydon evolved."

"Yeah, Brock helped us with it last night," Forrest explained, "when we were planning for this battle."

He smiled as he remembered the conversation...

The crisp cool mountain air surrounded him as he stood outside of the Pewter gym with all of his Pokémon and Forrest, who had his Rhydon out. They already discussed strategies to handle both Golem and Sudowoodo, but Brock wasn't happy with what he was hearing.

"Are you sure that's his last Pokémon?" he asked.

"Yeah, when the museum first opened Lola took interest in fossils and ancient stuff," Forrest explained, "they took a trip to a ruin sight and he found the fossil there. He then took a trip to Cinnebar and had it restored but he never officially had it registered to the gym. It's his last option."

"Great," he sighed, "I've only ever seen one before and it was a beast. Never going down without a couple victories under his belt."

"So, what do we do?" Forrest asked.

"Well, we'll need some serious power," Brock explained, "but you'll also need to be on the same level as your partner. We can't take it too lightly."

"The two Pokémon I get on best with are my own, Rhydon and Geodude," Forrest replied, "but I only got Geodude a few weeks back. Dad took me to Mount Moon to find him. It's when he told me the plan to hand the gym over to Lola."

"Don't worry, she will not be taking our families gym," Brock replied, "but it sounds like Rhydon will be our best bet. Maybe we'll be able to catch him off guard, as well."

"What do you mean?" Forrest asked. He reached into his bag and pulled out an orange band of some sort, "wait is that?"

"A Protector," Brock nodded, "I found it in Silver Town and thought it'll make a good present for you. If Rhydon were to wear this and we get the energy of a battle pumping in his veins, then he should evolve."

"Are you sure he's ready?" Forrest asked, "I remember you warning me against evolving Pokémon too soon."

"I'm sure," Brock smiled, "you've done a good job raising Rhydon here and he's certainly ready. So, if your both ready then we can get this thing ready."

His little brother nodded in agreement and took the evolution item. Forrest wrapped it around his partners stomach as his own Pokémon moved back to make a makeshift battlefield in front of the gym. Golem stepped forward and took up a battle stance. Ready to help with the evolution...

"Then it's my turn," Flint sighed, pulling out his own Pokéball, "you're up, Aerodactyl!"

In a flash of light, his fossil Pokémon appeared on the field. He was a reptilian, bipedal Pokémon with large, membranous wings. He had small, sharply pointed ears, narrow eyes, a ridged snout with a gaping mouth and a strong lower jaw full of serrated fangs, which he opened and let out an intimidating roar. His body was covered in a light purplish-grey skin with violet wing membranes. Aerodactyl's wings consisted of a membrane running from the side of the body to the tip of his elongated finger. The clawed hands at the end of each wing looked deadly. There was a hump-like ridge with a spike on his back, and he had a strong tail with an arrow-shaped tip. His talon-like feet had two-toes in front and one in the back.

While it wasn't nearly as big as Ash's, it also didn't seem to share his restraint as he took up a battle stance. His long tongue licking his lips in an intimidating manner. Hopefully, the surprised evolution will be enough to help with this massive threat. He raised both arms as each Pokémon took up a battle stance.

"Rhyperior verses Aerodactyl," Brock declared, "let the battle begin!"

Forrest verses Flint: Round Three

He watched as the large dinosaur took off into the air with a powerful roar. He began circling around the top of the ceiling like a predator.

Rhyperior stepped forward and held his hands against his chest. A small rock formed and blasted upwards. As it left his grip, another formed and followed suit. He continued to shoot five rocks upwards.

The first couple missed as Aerodactyl attempted to avoid them but due to the restricted airspace, he was struck by the remaining three. Falling as a result.

"Straight into an Iron Head!" Flint shouted.

His rock flying type spread his wings, barely avoiding the ground and soaring parel to it. His head shone with a metal coating as he slammed in his opponent.

Forrest's starter growled as his arms reached out, taking the impact. His feet scrapped across the rocky field as his club-tail slammed down and bringing them to a complete stop. His arm raised up and glew white with a hint of orangey-red fighting type energy, slamming it down on his opponents back.

"Now grab it and throw!" Forrest shouted. His rock ground type grunted, reaching down, and picking their opponent up.

His tail swung around, coated in metal smashing against Rhyperior's arm. Losing his grip, the fossil Pokémon kicked off and created distance between them.

"Now for the big hit!" Flint shouted, "Hyper Beam!"

Aerodactyl landed right in front of his father and took a deep breath. A powerful beam of pure normal type energy shot out and blew dust up from the field.

It struck the rock ground type head on, who quickly crossed his arms to take the hit. An explosion engulfed him completely.

Brock's eyes widened as he tried to peer through the chaos. He gasped as he saw his brother's starter stepped forward.

"H-he's still standing?" Flint gasped, "b-but how?"

"While he's stunned charge in!" Forrest shouted.

With heavy footsteps, the drill Pokémon charged forward. A power-barrier forming around as he built up momentum. Smashing into the stunned dinosaur, he pushed forward and tackled him into the wall.

The rock flying type cried out as he was squeezed between the rock and the hard place. His fangs burst into flames as he bite down hard.

Rhyperior cried out in pain as the dinosaur crawled over him. He stumbled backwards, trying to grab their opponent but to no-avail.

Aerodactyl continued to whack him with a combination of iron tail and fire fang. Forrest's starter crying out in pain as he was helpless to stop it.

"Flint dear, end this battle!" Lola ran up to him.

"That's what I plan on doing sweetie," he replied, not turning around from the battle, "now Aerodactyl-"

"No!" she slammed her foot down, "I mean forfeit. End this battle and let Forrest win!"

"B-but honey-"

"Do it!" she cried out.

"A-alright," he stuttered, turning back, "okay Brock. Aerodactyl can't continue. We forfeit this battle."

"Flint has declared his Aerodactyl unable to battle," Brock declared, "making the winners of this battle Forrest. Meaning I'll remain the deed holder of the Pewter gym and no switch over of leader shall take place before Forrest turns of age to take over as leader."

Brock stood off to the side as Forrest celebrated with his Rhyperior. He truly felt glad that this was sorted out, although he wasn't completely certain that they would've won the battle... maybe he misjudged Lola, she did have their father conceive defeat, after all. He turned to the side and saw his father had just recalled his rock flying type. Not wasting another moment, he approached him and his new lady.

"Brock I-"

"You lost the battle, so that means you have no right to the deed of the gym," Brock cut him off, "if you wish to keep position as gym leader until Forrest is of-age, then you can. Provided you continue to train him and give him the support he'll need to take over."

"How could you ask me that?" he replied, "of course I'll support my boy."

"After the stunts you've pulled," Brock paused to sigh, "I can't take anything for granted with you."

"I wasn't going to block Forrest from the gym," he replied, "I just thought Lola and him could bond over it and-"

"He will keep his word, I promise you Brock," Lola spoke up, taking her leave and walking over to the bench on the far wall.

"So, son, what was your plan if you lost?" he asked, "I know you had something else up your sleeve."

"I would've kept my word and handed the deed back to you," Brock explained, "but I would've contacted the league board about the unauthorised change in leader, and the unauthorised change in field and type. And if none of that had them turn the gym over to someone else, then I would've come clean about my own placement as gym leader before being of age. Those months after you left but before I turned sixteen were some of the most tense of my life."

"You would've been in as much legal trouble with that as I would be," Flint sighed, "you really would've risked all of that?"

"Yes, because like I said, it wasn't just about defending my brother," he replied, "I have too much respect for the gym and all it stands for. I would've gladly risked my own freedom if it meant it wasn't turned into a laughingstock. Besides as a first offense, I could've just gotten off with a warning."

"I doubt that, the PLA aren't known for going lightly on gym offenses," Flint sighed, "I truly am sorry, son. Can we start over?"

"No," he shook his head, "you really messed up and unlike last time, I'm not just going to forgive and forget. You'll have to earn my respect back and as for the others... I can't speak on their behalf. Now if you excuse me."

Not waiting for an answer, he walked over towards his father's other half. A million thoughts running through his head as he rubbed his fingers against each other. While he would've liked more time to think he soon found himself stood in front of the brown-haired women.

"Can I speak with you?" he asked. She looked at him and a small smile formed on her lips.

"I'd love to," she replied, offering the free space next to her on the bench. Mentally shrugging, he took her offer and sat down, "what do you want to talk about?"

"I... I think I owe you an apology," he sighed, "why did you get Flint to call the battle off?"

"Honestly?" she asked, "because I'm not fussed about being a gym leader. When he first mentioned it, I thought it would be fun, but I know Forrest is the one who truly wants it and would make the most of it. I know I would do it for a few months then something else would come along."

"I'm sorry I was so rough on you when we first met," he sighed, "I guess I saw someone messing with my brother's future and lost it."

"Don't be," she shook her head, "I wish I had a brother like you growing up. All your siblings talk about you to no end. It honestly made me a little jealous at first."

"It did?" he asked.

"Huh uh," she nodded, "can I tell you something?"

"Of course," he replied.

"When I was younger, I was in an orphanage and never knew my birth parents," she explained, "all I ever wanted was to have a family to call my own. Then when I was a young adult and moved in with this guy and we planned on creating our own family."

"Why are you telling me this?"

"But we discovered that I am unable to have kids, and I never will be able to," she sighed, "I'm tell you this because I want you to understand that while I do love your father, I've dumped guys for a lot less than the stunt he pulled today. But I'm not going anywhere."

"Lola..." he uttered.

"I know this might be selfish of me but a family like yours is all I ever wanted," she added, "I don't plan on giving that up easily, but I would love for you to be a part of it too. I know if I truly want to be a part of this family then I need you on board too."

Brock was speechless as he looked at the older women. When he first arrived and learnt of the plans for her taking over the gym, he wanted to kick her out onto the street but if the last hour has shown anything, she really isn't as bad. It was just his father trying to keep her entertained through fear she'd leave.

"Welcome to the family," he smiled.

"Thank you, Brock," she replied, "and don't worry about your dad, he'll keep the gym running until Forrest is old enough to take over as leader. And I'll make sure he doesn't try anything like this again."

"Thank you," he held a handout to her, to which she shook.

A few hours later and Brock stood at the edge of Pewter. All his family came to see him off, along with his Pokémon. The only exceptions being those that he planned to bring with him: Golem, Ninetales, Omastar, Stantler, Forretress and Shuckle. All of which were secure inside their Pokéballs.

He gave his oldest sibling a hug, knowing that he'd be safe in his position as trainee gym leader. Interestingly, after the battle the mother Sudowoodo made her decision and decided to permentantly join Forrest. She wasn't mad about the plan for her battle, but they quickly made the adjustments at the Pokémon centre. As the embrace ended, he smiled at the sight of the large group seeing him off.

He already contacted Serena to learn they were heading to a place called Petalburg and have a new companion called May. He's plans on getting a flight this evening from Vermillion to Lilycove then a boat ride tomorrow morning straight to Petalburg. If everything goes to plan, then he should be meeting them tomorrow evening.

With a wave goodbye, he set off down the path. Ready for whatever adventures await in the region of Hoenn.

Misty stood at the front of the boat, sailing through the waters of the orange archipelago. Her Marill resting in her arms, the warm tropical sun heating her skin. Her Mantyke leaping through the warm waters to the side of the boat. Tentacruel, Vaporeon and Lanturn joining her in the swim. A small island slowly getting bigger as they approached. Her lips forcing up into a smile.

"Poli Poliwrath?" her newest team member asked. She turned to the side and smiled at the water fighting type, who stood beside her, arms crossed, and eyes narrowed. He has really taken on a role as a bodyguard for her. Almost like an overprotective father.

"Yeah, that's Trovita island," she smiled, "look Poliwrath. I know you wasn't thrilled when you found out about Rudy but give him a chance. I'm sure you'll grow to love him as much as I do."

Her Tadpole Pokémon grunted, but gave a serious nod to answer. With the island coming up, an announcement was made through the P.A. system, so she quickly returned her team that were in the water. Dropping their Pokéballs back into her bag, she began making her way towards the boats depart lobby ready to step foot on Trovita once more.

She couldn't help but hug her water fairy type harder with each passing moment. Following the large crowd of the ramp, she found herself stood on the pier of the island. Making her way through the crowd, she kept her eyes scanning the people around, trying to find her long-distance boyfriend.

"Misty!" a high female voice screeched. Turning around, she tried to look for the source.

It didn't take her long to find it, as a long-red-haired girl ran forward towards her. A strong looking Dewgong by her side. Kneeling down, she opened her arms to engulf the little sister with a big hug. A wide smile took over her face as Mahri entered a short run to meet her.

Poliwrath put an arm out and blocked the embrace. The young girl stumbled backwards as Dewgong cried out at her. Taking up a battle stance, as the water fighting type grunted once more, flexing his own muscles in an intimidating manner.

"Stop it, Poliwrath!" she told her newest team member off, sighing she calmed her composure before continuing, "this is Mahri and she is Rudy's little sister. I know your just trying to protect me, but I've survived this long without the overprotectiveness, so just relax. Okay? Enjoy yourself."

"Poli," he replied, turning to the side.

She shook her head and turned towards the young girl, despite only being about a year and a half since they last met up, she has really grown up, "sorry about that. Poliwrath is just cautious around new people."

"It's alright, Misty," she smiled, jumping forward to engulf her in a hug. Which she gladly returned, "but I thought your Poliwag evolved into a Politoed."

"She did," the water type specialist smiled, "Poliwrath here, use to be my dad's Pokémon but he decided to join my team recently. I think on some level, he thinks of himself as a father figure."

"Hehehe, that's a little silly," she laughed, "a Pokémon couldn't be your daddy."

"I know," she rolled her eyes, despite almost being ready to begin her own journey, she still has that heart of a child. The two set off towards the gym with a slight chatter filling their reunion as their respective Pokémon walked on either side of them. Taking in the warm tropical sun from above them, she turned towards the red-haired little sister, "so Mahri, Rudy mentioned you being ready to start your own journey?"

"Yeah," she excitedly jumped up, "Dewgong and I have decided to become coordinator's and take part in contests."

"Wow," she gasped, "you know my friend Serena, well she took part in contests and even won the Johto grand festival."

"I know, Rudy and I stayed up to watch it when it was on," she smiled, "along with brother's flare for style, is what made our decision easy. Right Dewgong."

"Dew Dewgong," her water ice type added.

"I'm glad you found something to work towards," Misty smiled, "and I know you'll do great. If you want, I bet she would be willing to give ya some tips on being a coordinator. We can give her a call later, if you'd like. I want to check in on them anyway."

"That would be great, Misty, thank you," Mahri squealed, "but erm, you should know that wasn't the only thing I decided on."

"It wasn't?" she asked.

"Nope, I also decided on becoming a water type specialist," she smiled, "just like you."

"Really?" Misty gasped, "that's great Mahri! What made you decide on specialising on water types."

"Well first there was Dewgong," she smiled.

"If I remember right, you found her washed up on the beach and Rudy helped you nurse her back to health," Misty recited, "and-"

"And we've been best friends ever since," Mahri smiled, followed by a cheer of agreement from the sea lion Pokémon, "there's also you, after you saved me when we first met, you showed me how awesome water types are."

"Heh, I'm just glad we got you to safety," she smiled, "so any other reasons?"

"Yeah, and it goes back to that night on the ocean," she sighed, "I actually became pretty scared of swimming in the ocean after that. So, I guess learning to specialise in water is my way of overcoming that fear. It's, erm, a little embarrassing actually and Rudy doesn't know it."

"Well, your secret is safe with me," Misty smiled, "so where is your brother anyway? I was expecting to meet him at the pier."

"He wanted to, he really did but he had a visitor show up," she explained, "I think it was Drake and about the gym because he met him up on the battlefield and I saw a Dragonite. Probably about finding a replacement for him."

"Replacement?" Misty asked.

"Whoops, Rudy wanted to tell you himself, hehehe," the young girl nervously chuckled, "but since your keeping my secret, I guess I could tell you. You see, my brother really didn't want to be apart from you when it comes time for you to return to Cerulean. So, he handed in his recognition as the Trovita island gym leader. The current Orange league will be his last time as a gym leader."

Misty felt her cheeks heat up as she looked towards the ground. She remembered him mentioning that he would do that, but she told him not to. How could she ask him to give up his gym just so she could have her own and him? He promised not to do anything until they could discuss it properly in person.

"I'm sorry, Misty, I didn't mean to upset you," she replied, "but don't worry, he does have a plan. It's not just some spur of the moment idea."

"Really?" she asked.

"Yep!" she beamed, "he decided he'd use the opportunity to follow his true passion. I found him researching studios in Cerulean where he could run dance classes. Although I told him not to bother because the training room at the Cerulean gym would make the perfect dance studio."

"You... know what's at the Cerulean gym?" she asked.

"Of course," Mahri smiled, "I had to see where my big sister comes from and where my brother will be moving to."

While Misty wanted to continue their conversation, they found themselves outside of Rudy's house and gym. The young girl approached first and opened the door, with the water type trainer entering shortly behind. Her heart stopped as she saw the swave boy who stole her heart lean against a wall. A smirk crossed his lips as he approached her, arms wide open. Engulfing her in a hug, he also placed a quick kiss on her forehead.

"I've really missed you," he whispered, "sorry that I couldn't meet you off the boat."

"It's fine," she whispered, "Mahri explained about the visitor."

"Hehehe, guess we have some stuff to talk about," he chuckled nervously, ending the embrace, "but before that, the visitor was actually for you. He's just in there."

She looked towards the room with pinched lips and a raised eyebrow. How could the visitor possibly be for her, she literally only just arrived and other than her friends and sisters, and of course Rudy, no-one knew about her plans to spend the last months here before becoming a gym leader. Stepping inside the main living room, she tried to greet the visitor, but her voice stuck in her throat as she took in his appearance. The spiky red hair, almost black uniform with a G-Men logo over on the top left of his torso and flowing cape stood out the most. His mouth flicked up into a smirk as he stepped closer.

"Misty Waterflower, heir to the Cerulean gym and self-proclaimed water type specialist," he greeted, looking her in the eye, "I need your help."

Her eyes widened at the revelation. Of course, she knew him because of his placement in the Pokémon league but despite coming close to meeting at several events, the most recent being the Goldenrod radio tower, she never actually did. As he loomed over her, her voice came out in a meek whisper.

"I'm listening."

Thanks for reading... Please Favourite, Follow and Review. Also, feel free to ask any questions through PM, I will answer them all, although don't expect too big of spoilers. Don't forget to vote in the polls. I really appreciate the support. Thank you and see ya next time...