A/N: I am so very sorry for taking so long on this update. I had so much energy then I hit a wall of writer's block and work and my sister getting married. I won't go into much detail but other family things made the wedding the least stressful part of that week and I am barely starting to settle back into a rhythm. Let's get into Kieran's next chapter and don't forget to favorite and review if you feel so inclined.
As Kieran ventured into Pewter City's heart, the city's lively ambiance marked a distinct shift from the tranquility of Viridian Forest. The cobblestone streets echoed under his footfall, bathed in the mellow hues of the setting sun reflecting off towering buildings. His Pokémon, safely enclosed in their Poké Balls, were recuperating from the lengthy journey, prepping for the ensuing adventure.
His gaze traced the digital city map on a large public display, pinpointing the iconic red roof of the Pokémon Center. This haven, nestled amidst the city's bustle, was his destination. Kieran was well aware his Pokémon required rest and rejuvenation before facing Forrest, the city's Gym Leader.
But as he was about to set course for the Pokémon Center, a recognizable silhouette in the crowd snagged his attention. The chestnut waves fluttering in the breeze, the lean stature, and the unmistakable lightning bolt pendant - it was unmistakably Lila. A vivid flashback of their first encounter at Professor Oak's lab where they had both chosen their first Pokémon washed over him.
"Lila," he found himself whispering, the name seeping out unbidden. He was on the brink of calling out to her, navigating through the thronging crowd to reach her, when a familiar laugh arrested him in his tracks.
The jovial, infectious laughter belonged to Brock, a long-time friend and former travel companion of his parents. Shifting his gaze toward the laughter, he discovered Brock, seated at a nearby alfresco café, engrossed in a conversation with a woman. The woman turned slightly, revealing herself to be Lillie, one of his father's classmates from Alola.
Seeing them laughing and sharing stories, Kieran decided to approach. He figured he could catch up with Lila later. For now, a conversation with two seasoned Pokémon trainers seemed more pressing. The setting sun elongated shadows across Pewter City as he moved towards Brock and Lillie, his heart pounding in anticipation.
"Brock!" Kieran shouted across the café. Both heads swiveled in his direction as he made his way toward them.
Brock, at forty, still carried an air of robust youthfulness. His spiky brown hair was beginning to show traces of gray, providing a distinguished appearance. He retained the broad shoulders and the toned physique from his years as a rock-type Pokémon trainer. His piercing, ever-closed eyes held a wealth of knowledge and experience, and he wore a seasoned smile that spoke volumes about his years of mentorship. He was dressed casually, his signature orange shirt replaced by a loose-fitted dark green one, and he donned a set of black trousers along with sturdy boots.
Seated across from Brock, Lillie exuded a serene grace. The once bashful girl from Alola had matured into an elegant woman in her early thirties. Her long blonde hair cascaded over her shoulders, a shade lighter and softer than Kieran remembered. Her blue eyes sparkled with kindness, and her rosy lips curved into a gentle smile. Dressed in a chic white dress with a blue shawl draped around her shoulders, she perfectly embodied the balance of a seasoned Pokémon trainer and a charming lady.
"Kieran! It's been too long!" Brock exclaimed, rising from his seat and extending a firm handshake towards him.
"Indeed, Kieran, how have you been?" Lillie chimed in, her eyes alight with affectionate warmth. "You've grown so much since your eighth birthday."
As they exchanged pleasantries, Lillie's gaze fell on the Poke Balls attached to Kieran's belt. She inquired, her tone curious, "Planning to challenge Forrest for his gym badge, are we?" Her question hung in the air, prompting a fresh surge of adrenaline in Kieran.
Kieran hesitated momentarily, taking in their expectant expressions. "Yes," he said, his voice a blend of determination and underlying nervousness, "I am planning to challenge Forrest for the Pewter City gym badge."
Seeing the resolve in Kieran's eyes, he pressed on, "Brock, given that he's your brother, do you have any tips for taking on Forrest?"
Lillie's azure eyes shifted to Brock, a sparkle of interest evident. She leaned in slightly, her curiosity echoing Kieran's sentiment. Everyone was keen to know what Brock, the former Pewter City gym leader, and a seasoned traveler, would advise.
A distant look crossed Brock's face, taking him back to a time over three decades prior in Cerulean City. He recalled the sun's golden rays reflecting off the city's famous fountains, the clear sky, and a young boy named Ash, whose boundless determination was infectious.
Amidst the memories, one stood out: The day he had pieced together that Misty was the youngest of the Sensational Sisters. It was a surprise, but what had truly caught him off guard was Ash having to battle her for a badge. Brock had been in a dilemma then. Being a gym leader himself, he was privy to certain strategies and tactics of other gym leaders, including those of Misty's sisters. But he had chosen not to divulge any of those secrets to Ash. Every gym challenge was a rite of passage, a test of mettle, and it would defeat the purpose if he gave Ash an undue advantage.
Coming back to the present, Brock focused on Kieran's anticipatory gaze. "Gym leaders, Forrest included, have their unique strategies," Brock started, choosing his words carefully. "But my primary advice to you, Kieran, isn't about tactics or moves. It's about trust. Believe in your Pokémon, and they'll believe in you. Each battle offers a lesson. Win or lose, never lose sight of why you embarked on this journey in the first place."
Kieran took a deep breath, absorbing Brock's words. He felt a surge of gratitude and determination. He was ready, ready to face Forrest, ready for whatever lay ahead on his journey.
Kieran nodded thoughtfully at Brock's advice. He turned to Lillie and, with a soft smile, pulled her into a gentle hug. "Thanks for the talk," he said, his voice sincere. "And I hope you two have a lovely date."
Lillie giggled and Brock smirked, "Make sure to show Forrest what you're made of," Brock called out as Kieran began to head off.
As Kieran entered the bright, well-lit Pokemon Center, he was struck by a sight he hadn't expected: Lila, seated at one of the benches with a glistening boulder badge in her hand. The smirk on her face was unmistakable, a testament to her swift victory.
The realization hit Kieran hard. She must've rushed straight to the gym after leaving Viridian Forest, wasting no time to claim her victory. The weight of his impending battle became more palpable, the pressure settling heavy in his chest.
Internally, Kieran wrestled with a flurry of thoughts. 'How did she beat him so fast? What strategy did she use? Why didn't I think of challenging myself at the gym today?'
He tried to shake the envy and anxiety that gnawed at him, but the swirling tempest of thoughts kept him from achieving the calm he so desperately needed. Each time he tried to picture his strategy against Forrest, he was haunted by the gleaming boulder badge in Lila's hand, symbolic of her swift triumph.
As night fell and the Pokemon Center's lights dimmed, Kieran found himself tossing and turning in his bunk. Instead of the deep, restorative sleep he had hoped for, his mind raced with strategies, possible moves, and counterattacks. The looming weight of expectation, combined with Lila's early victory, made it near impossible for him to find solace in slumber.
And as the first light of dawn seeped through the curtains, Kieran found himself more exhausted than rejuvenated, the critical day of his first gym challenge ahead.
The relentless night had left Kieran feeling drained and groggy as if he had weights on his eyelids. Every step felt like an effort, and each thought seemed to process slower than usual. Trudging through the Pokémon Center, his mind a whirl of thoughts and strategies, he failed to notice the striking figure before him.
Walking with a confident stride, a woman with vibrant, rainbow-dyed medium-length hair came into his path. Her skin had an unusual hue of orange, and her build was muscular. Her pale yellow eyes seemed to shine with a certain determination that Kieran would typically have recognized, had he been more alert.
"Oi! Watch it!" she exclaimed in a gruff voice as Kieran collided into her. She gave him a look, which, under normal circumstances, might have been enough to make someone apologize profusely and be on their way. But Kieran's exhaustion overrode his normal filters.
Not pausing to apologize to the orange-skinned woman, he took another unsteady step, immediately crashing into Lila. The force of the collision sent her tumbling onto the ground, her belongings scattering around her.
"Kieran! Seriously?! Watch it!" Lila's voice was tinged with annoyance, her eyes flashing with anger.
Kieran's eyes widened with realization, regret immediately sinking in. "Lila, I'm so sorry," he murmured, bending down to help her pick up her things. His fingers brushed against a familiar metallic emblem: the boulder badge. He held it up to inspect it more closely, but before he could react further, Lila snatched it away from his grasp.
"That's mine," she hissed, cradling the badge protectively.
Kieran took a moment, inhaling deeply. "I know. I'm sorry, Lila." But whether he was apologizing for the collision, or the envy he felt about her already having a badge, even he wasn't entirely sure.
The Pewter City Gym was imposing from the outside, its stone architecture reminiscent of the rugged mountains surrounding the city. But when Kieran stepped inside, he was met with total darkness. For a moment, he wondered if he had come at the wrong time, or if the gym was closed for some reason.
A soft voice echoed through the vastness of the dark chamber, sending shivers down Kieran's spine. "Are you here to challenge the Pewter City gym?"
Kieran squinted, trying to pinpoint the source of the voice. Slowly, a soft green light began to emanate from the center of the gym. Seated there in deep meditation, was a young man with familiar features. He wore a green striped polo, jeans, and brown boots. It was unmistakably Forrest, the gym leader, and he bore a strong resemblance to Brock.
Without hesitation, Kieran replied, "Yes, I'm here to challenge you."
Forrest slowly opened his eyes, their sharp gaze locked onto Kieran. "Very well," he said, standing up with grace. "Our battle will be straightforward. Each trainer will use two Pokémon, fighting one-on-one. The first to defeat both of their opponent's Pokémon wins the match."
With a dramatic motion, Forrest grabbed a Pokéball from his belt and tossed it into the arena, revealing his Geodude. Its arms flexed, and a confident grin formed on its rocky face.
Kieran weighed his options. He decided to bring out Pidgeotto, the Pokémon that had just recently evolved and had shown its fighting spirit against a Beedrill. With a determined look, Kieran sent Pidgeotto into the battlefield, its majestic wings creating a slight gust as it took to the air.
Forrest chuckled, "Opting for a flying type against Geodude? It's a bold choice, but you'll soon realize it's a disadvantage."
But Kieran was undeterred. "Every Pokémon has its strengths and weaknesses," he replied, recalling the lessons from his sister Skye. "It's all about how you use them."
Forrest smirked, readying himself. "Very well, let the battle begin!"
Geodude launched forward with a Rollout, moving rapidly across the arena. Pidgeotto, with its nimble flight, soared higher to dodge the oncoming attack. "Quick Attack, Pidgeotto!" Kieran commanded. Pidgeotto darted down, striking Geodude with a fast and precise hit, but Geodude was sturdier than it looked and seemed relatively unaffected.
"Hmph," Forrest remarked. "Geodude, use Rock Throw!"
Geodude, using its strong arms, hurled large chunks of rocks at Pidgeotto. With its nimbleness, Pidgeotto managed to dodge most of them, but one grazed its wing, causing it to falter slightly in its flight. Eventually crashing into the floor of the gym defeated.
Kieran gritted his teeth, realizing the uphill battle he was in. But he was determined, and the battle was just beginning. With Pidgeotto beaten and tired, Kieran hesitated for a moment before recalling it to its Pokéball. The taunting from Forrest was getting under his skin, making him second-guess every move.
"Looks like I was right about the disadvantage," Forrest smirked, watching as Pidgeotto's silhouette faded from the battlefield. "Any more surprises?"
Kieran locked eyes with Forrest, his determination unwavering. "Pidgeotto fought well, but it's time to switch tactics." With a quick motion, he sent Bulbasaur out onto the field. The grass-type Pokémon looked up at Geodude, its bulb pulsing with energy.
"Now we're talking," Forrest mused, clearly recognizing the type of advantage Bulbasaur held over Geodude. "But don't think it'll be that easy."
"Bulbasaur, Vine Whip!" Kieran called out without hesitation. The plant on Bulbasaur's back reacted instantly, sending two vines hurtling toward Geodude. The vines wrapped around the rock Pokémon, squeezing tightly. Geodude struggled, trying to break free, but Bulbasaur's grip was strong.
"Geodude, counter with Rock Polish!" Forest commanded. Suddenly, Geodude's body started shining, and it became noticeably swifter. With its increased speed, it managed to wriggle out of the vine's grasp.
Bulbasaur, however, was already in its next move. "Use Razor Leaf!" Kieran shouted. Bulbasaur launched a flurry of sharp leaves, which, thanks to the type advantage, dealt significant damage to Geodude.
Forest looked a little tense now, realizing that the tables had turned. "Geodude, one more Rock Throw!" The battered Geodude, though fatigued, summoned the energy to toss a barrage of rocks toward Bulbasaur. Bulbasaur dodged most of them, but a few hits made their mark, wearing it down further.
Kieran, seizing the moment, gave his next command. "Finish it with Solar Beam!" Bulbasaur's bulb absorbed sunlight, concentrating its energy. After a few tense moments, a powerful beam of light shot from the bulb, hitting Geodude directly and knocking it out.
Geodude lay motionless on the ground, and Forrest, despite the earlier teasing, looked at Kieran with newfound respect. "Well done," he said, recalling his defeated Pokémon. "But this isn't over yet."
Kieran nodded, Bulbasaur looking a bit winded next to him. He knew the battle ahead would be even more challenging. But he was ready for it.
As Forrest released his Onix onto the field, its huge form overshadowing Bulbasaur, the gym echoed with its deep rumblings. The giant rock snake glared down at the smaller grass type, the size difference making the match seem almost unfair. But Kieran stood firm, knowing that Bulbasaur had a type advantage, even if it seemed insignificant against such a behemoth.
For a moment, Forrest's gaze turned distant, lost in a memory. He was younger, just a kid, and he stood amongst his many siblings in the stands. Beside them was a fiery-redheaded girl, Misty, with a spark in her eyes. They all watched intently as Brock, Pewter City's then-Gym Leader, stood on the same battlefield facing an eager young trainer named Ash.
Ash's Pikachu was determined, but the sheer size of Onix made the electric mouse seem almost laughable. Yet, despite the odds, something unexpected happened. The gym's sprinklers triggered accidentally, showered the field, weakening Onix and giving Pikachu a chance to strike.
Back in the present, a determined glint shone in Forrest's eyes. "That day, we learned never to underestimate any trainer, no matter how young or inexperienced. But today, Onix and I won't make the same mistakes."
Without further ado, Forrest commanded, "Onix, Dig!" The rock snake obeyed instantly, burrowing into the ground at a speed that belied its size. The battlefield rumbled as Onix disappeared beneath, leaving Kieran and Bulbasaur in suspense.
"Stay alert, Bulbasaur! When it emerges, use Vine Whip!" Kieran shouted, trying to prepare for the impending attack.
The seconds felt like hours. Suddenly, Onix erupted from the ground, attempting to catch Bulbasaur off-guard. But Kieran's Pokémon was quick, lashing out with its vines. Yet, the rocky exterior of Onix proved tough to grip, making the vine whip less effective.
Forrest grinned, "Good strategy, but you'll need more than that! Onix, Rock Slide!" Rocks began tumbling down towards Bulbasaur from all sides, trapping it. The grass Pokémon tried its best to dodge, but the onslaught was relentless.
Kieran's heart raced. He remembered the type advantage, but Forrest's experience and strategy were putting him in a tight spot. He needed to think fast. Bulbasaur's Solar Beam had proven effective before, but it would need time to charge, time they didn't have with Onix's relentless attack. But he wasn't about to give up. This battle was far from over.
As the dust settled, Kieran looked out onto the battlefield, watching as his valiant Bulbasaur lay defeated. With a heavy heart, he called back his loyal companion into its Pokéball. Kieran's face was etched with disappointment; he'd come into the Pewter City gym full of hope and left with another loss under his belt.
Forrest, rather than departing immediately as most gym leaders did after a victory, approached Kieran. "Hey," he began, his voice gentle yet firm, "That was a good battle. I mean it. You've got spirit, and your Bulbasaur fought with everything it had. Remember, it's not just about type advantages, it's about understanding and adapting to the strategies of your opponent." With that, Forrest gave Kieran a thumbs up. "Better luck next time."
The well-intentioned words should've been comforting, but they only added to Kieran's whirlwind of emotions. Two battles. Two defeats. Even when the odds seemed in his favor, victory slipped through his fingers.
He left the gym and started wandering the streets of Pewter City, lost in thought. The sun was setting, painting the sky with hues of orange and pink, but the beauty of the evening did little to lift Kieran's spirits. He replayed the battle over and over in his head, searching for what he did wrong, and what he could've done differently.
Every corner of Pewter City had trainers sharing their success stories, badges glistening in their possession, and plans for their next battles. Kieran felt out of place amidst the triumphant chatter. The weight of his losses pressed down on him, making every step feel heavier than the last.
What was he missing? Was it his strategy? Or was it something deeper, something fundamental he was overlooking? Lila's swift victory earlier that day only made his self-doubt grow stronger. If she could win so effortlessly, why couldn't he?
Stopping at a park bench, Kieran sat down, cradling his head in his hands. The journey of a Pokémon trainer was proving harder than he'd ever imagined. But in the midst of his despair, a memory surfaced. It was Skye's words from their time together at the Cerulean City Gym, "Being a great trainer is a lot more than just winning battles. It's about understanding your Pokémon, their strengths and weaknesses, and forming a bond with them."
Maybe he'd been approaching this journey with the wrong mindset. Maybe it wasn't just about winning, but about growth and understanding. Kieran took a deep breath, gazing at the stars beginning to appear in the darkening sky. It was time to rethink his approach.
Kieran's introspection was suddenly interrupted by the familiar tone of his phone. He glanced down, seeing the word "Mom" light up on the screen. Taking a deep breath, he answered the call.
"Kieran!" Misty's voice echoed with a mixture of concern and relief. "Why didn't you call when you reached Viridian City? Brock told me you're in Pewter City now! You can't just disappear like that."
Kieran's voice was tinged with fatigue and underlying frustration. "I...I'm sorry, Mom."
Misty's voice softened, "You sound down. Everything alright? Want to talk about it?"
There was a pause. "Why didn't you tell me about what happened in Viridian City? About you and Dad and the Pokémon Center?"
Misty sighed, the weight of the past evident in her voice. "Kieran, it's not something your father and I were trying to hide from you. It's just... it's not the first thing we thought we needed to tell you about our adventures."
"But it's a part of who you both are. A part of your journey," Kieran protested. "Why would you keep something like that from me?"
Misty hesitated, her voice filled with a mother's protective instinct. "We didn't want you or Skye to feel that if your adventure wasn't as perilous as ours, it wasn't a real adventure. Every journey has its challenges and dangers, and we didn't want you to compare or feel like you had to live up to ours."
"But Team Rocket-"
"Is exactly why we didn't tell you every detail," Misty interrupted, her voice firm. "Your father and I had our fair share of run-ins with them. Yes, we defended the Pokémon Center from their attack, and it resulted in a lot of damage. But even though things have mostly worked out for us, we don't want either you or Skye running the risk of being targeted by Team Rocket because of our past."
Kieran took a moment to process this. "So you were protecting us?"
Misty's voice was soft, "Always. And we always will. We just want both of you to have your own adventures, free from the shadows of our past."
"I understand, Mom," Kieran replied, a mixture of frustration and appreciation in his voice. "But I still wish I'd known."
Misty sighed, "I know, sweetie. And I'm sorry. When you come home, we'll talk about everything, I promise."
Kieran nodded, "Okay, Mom. I love you."
"I love you too, Kieran. Stay safe and remember, every adventure is unique. Make yours count."
There was a soft pause on the line, only broken by the distant sounds of Pewter City filtering through Kieran's phone. Misty, sensing there was more on her son's mind, inquired gently, "Kieran, is something else bothering you?"
He hesitated, then tried to deflect, "No, Mom, it's just... it's been a long day."
Misty didn't press immediately. She waited patiently. It was a tactic she'd perfected over the years, knowing that sometimes the best way to help someone open up was to provide them space.
Minutes ticked by, feeling more prolonged to Kieran. He sighed, trying to gather his thoughts. "Mom, I... I lost," he finally blurted out.
"Oh, Kieran..." Misty began, her voice filled with understanding.
"It's not just Forrest," he continued, voice shaky, "It was Lila too. Both matches. I had the type advantage, and I had strategies, but I still lost. I just feel... lost."
Misty took a moment, then offered, "Kieran, do you know that your father didn't technically beat Uncle Brock for his own Boulder Badge?"
"What?" Kieran's surprise was evident.
Misty chuckled softly, "Yes. When they battled here in Pewter City, just as Pikachu was about to finish off Onix, your father stopped the battle. He couldn't bear to see Onix suffer. Even though he had the upper hand, he didn't technically win."
There was a muffled shout in the background, unmistakably Ash's voice, "A win's a win, Misty! Brock gave me that badge fair and square!"
Misty laughed, "Yes, yes, because Brock saw your compassion. The point is, Kieran, sometimes battles are more than just wins or losses. It's about what you learn, how you grow, and the connections you make."
Kieran sighed, taking in his mother's words, "But Lila..."
"She's good, isn't she?" Misty inquired gently.
Kieran nodded, "She always seems one step ahead. I just... I want to prove myself."
"You will," Misty assured, "In your own time and in your own way. Your journey is yours alone, not a shadow of your father's or mine, or even Lila's. And remember, it's not always about winning, but about the lessons you learn along the way."
Kieran took a deep breath, "Thanks, Mom. I needed to hear that."
"Anytime," Misty replied warmly. "And remember, just because you face a few hurdles doesn't mean you won't leap over them eventually."
Kieran hesitated, then asked, "Mom, what should I do?"
Misty responded promptly, understanding her son's need for direction, "First things first, Kieran. Head to the Pokémon Center and make sure your Pokémon are healed. They've fought hard for you."
It was almost a mirror image of a conversation she'd had with Ash years ago. Kieran responded enthusiastically, his father's spirit shining through, "I almost forgot! Thanks, Mom, gotta go!" and quickly hung up, just as Ash would've in his younger, impulsive days.
Kieran sprinted back to the Pokémon Center, the setting sun casting long shadows across Pewter City. As he rushed in, he was immediately greeted by the soothing environment of the Center, along with the familiar and welcoming smile of Nurse Joy.
"Back again? Your Pokémon must have had quite the workout," she observed.
Kieran nodded, handing over his Pokéballs. "They did their best. Can you heal them, please?"
Nurse Joy took the balls, assuring, "Of course, just give me a few minutes."
Grateful for Nurse Joy's efficiency, Kieran took a seat in the waiting area. The tension of the day, combined with his conversation with Misty, started to weigh on him. The fatigue was palpable. All he wanted was to dive into a cozy bed and drift into a dreamless sleep. But as he stood up, heading to the trainers' resting quarters, his stomach gave a loud, protesting growl. It echoed through the nearly silent Center, earning him a few amused glances from other trainers.
"Guess I need to fuel up first," Kieran muttered to himself, chuckling.
He made his way to the Center's canteen, hoping to grab a quick meal before finally getting that much-needed rest. He knew that tomorrow was another day, another chance to grow, learn, and perhaps, even win.
The next morning, Kieran stirred from a deep, rejuvenating sleep. The worries of the previous day seemed distant as he stretched and basked in the morning sunlight filtering through the Pokémon Center's windows. Gathering his gear, he remembered the Weedle he'd caught and the potential strategies he could implement. Fishing out his Pokédex, he began to quickly peruse its contents.
The device beeped to life, displaying Weedle's basic statistics and moves. Kieran's fingers swiftly maneuvered through the data, searching for any information that might help him strategize more effectively. The Pokédex spoke, detailing Weedle's abilities, strengths, and common techniques. It also mentioned some trainers' tactics in battles against Rock-type Pokémon. An idea began to form in Kieran's mind.
With renewed confidence, Kieran decided to head straight to the Pewter City Gym for a rematch. Pushing the doors open, he called out, "Forrest! I'm back, and I challenge you to a rematch!"
From the depths of the gym, Forrest's voice echoed, "I wasn't sure you'd be back so soon, but I admire your spirit, Kieran. Let's see what you've got!" The gym's floor lights illuminated the battle arena as Forrest took his place, looking slightly more impressed than the day before.
What neither of them noticed was a tall figure with spiky brown hair and distinct closed eyes leaning against the wall of the upper stands. Brock, with keen interest, observed the two trainers, recalling his own days in that very gym. He was curious to see how Kieran had improved since their encounter at the Pokémon Center. It was always interesting for Brock to observe the growth and tactics of budding trainers, especially one related to two of his closest friends.
As Kieran and Forrest squared off, the air in the gym grew electric. The battle was about to commence, and this time, Kieran was ready.
"Go, Weedle!" Kieran shouted, releasing the tiny Bug-Poison-type Pokémon onto the field. Its segmented body wriggled in anticipation, ready to battle.
Across the field, Forrest smirked. "Geodude, it's your time to shine!" As the Rock Pokémon emerged, its rocky fists clenched, and it hovered over the ground with determination.
Many would have considered the match-up to be in Geodude's favor, given the type of advantages. But Kieran had a different plan in mind.
Brock watched intently from the stands. As he observed Kieran's determination, his thoughts drifted back to another day, another battle. He remembered young Skye, Ash and Misty's eldest, entering the gym with determination burning in her eyes. Forrest, expecting an easy win, was taken aback when Skye's Feebas, not typically known for their battle prowess, gracefully outmaneuvered each of Forrest's Rock-type Pokémon. The water type's fluid movements and unexpected strategies had thrown Forrest off balance.
Back in the present, Kieran commanded, "Weedle, use Poison Sting!" Quick as a flash, Weedle fired off a barrage of poisonous needles.
"Geodude, counter with Rollout!" Forrest ordered.
As Geodude began to roll, gaining momentum, it seemed to have the upper hand. But to everyone's surprise, instead of dodging, Weedle stood its ground.
"Weedle, String Shot, now!" Kieran yelled.
Weedle quickly spewed out a silky thread, tangling Geodude's rolling form and diverting its trajectory. Unable to change direction, Geodude crashed into the wall of the gym. Taking advantage of the situation, Weedle quickly followed up with a barrage of Poison Stings, which wore down Geodude.
Forrest, his confidence slightly shaken, called, "Geodude, shake off that string and use Rock Throw!"
But it was too late. The accumulated poison from Weedle's attacks started to take its toll on Geodude. It wobbled and eventually fainted.
Brock's eyes twinkled with a mix of surprise and pride. Kieran had shown an unconventional strategy, reminiscent of Ash's early battling style. Brock silently nodded, appreciating the creativity he was witnessing. Maybe, just maybe, Kieran had what it took to earn that Boulder Badge after all.
The towering form of Onix emerged, its long, rocky body slithering and coiling with intimidating force. Weedle, by comparison, seemed minuscule and vulnerable.
Kieran knelt at Weedle's level, catching the tiny Pokémon's attention. "Hey there," he began softly, "I know Onix is huge and intimidating, but remember Geodude? Size isn't everything. Just do your best." Weedle, in its way, buzzed softly in response, trying to muster up the courage for the next round.
Forrest, seeing the disparity in size but not underestimating Weedle after the previous match, commanded, "Onix, use Rock Slide!"
A rain of boulders cascaded towards Weedle. "Quickly, Weedle! Use String Shot to pull yourself to safety!" Kieran shouted. Weedle fired its string towards a nearby beam, trying to swing itself out of harm's way. However, it wasn't fast enough. One of the rocks struck Weedle, causing it to tumble down, defeated.
Taking a deep breath, Kieran recalled Weedle. "You did great, buddy. Rest up." Turning his focus back to the match, he confidently called out, "Bulbasaur, I choose you!"
Bulbasaur emerged, its bulb pulsating softly, ready to face the towering Onix. Kieran, having observed Forrest's strategies in their previous match, was ready.
"Onix, Dig!" ordered Forrest, hoping to use the same strategy that had worked so well against Bulbasaur the day before.
Kieran was prepared this time. "Bulbasaur, ready with Vine Whip!"
As Onix burrowed underground, the ground beneath Bulbasaur started to shake, indicating Onix's approach. Just as Onix emerged, attempting a surprise attack from below, Bulbasaur lashed out with its vines, striking Onix and throwing off its attack.
Onix roared in frustration, but Kieran was not going to let up. "Now, use Razor Leaf!" Bulbasaur unleashed a barrage of sharp leaves toward Onix, each one striking its rocky body.
Forrest, realizing he was losing the upper hand, decided to change tactics. "Onix, Bind!"
Onix lunged forward, attempting to wrap its massive body around Bulbasaur. But Kieran was a step ahead. "Bulbasaur, use Sleep Powder!"
A cloud of blue spores erupted from Bulbasaur's bulb, engulfing Onix. Within moments, the giant Rock Pokémon's movements began to slow, its eyes drooping, until it finally came to a stop, fast asleep.
Kieran saw his opportunity. "Let's finish this, Bulbasaur! Solar Beam!"
Gathering energy, the bulb on Bulbasaur's back began to glow brightly. Moments later, a powerful beam shot out, striking the sleeping Onix. As Onix slumped over, defeated, the gym was silent.
Kieran stood there for a moment, taking in what just happened. He blinked in surprise and then a wave of relief washed over him. As the realization set in, a genuine, excited smile formed on his face. He had finally earned his Boulder Badge.
Forrest approached Kieran, his previously stoic face now breaking into a genuine, proud smile. "That was an impressive battle, Kieran," he admitted, offering the Boulder Badge to the young trainer. "You've truly earned this."
Kieran, taking the badge with a sense of accomplishment, shook Forrest's hand. "Thank you, Forrest. And thanks for pushing me to become a better trainer."
From the shadows of the stands, Brock looked on, feeling a peculiar blend of nostalgia and pride. He had seen so many young trainers, including Ash and Misty, step onto the battlefield. And now, their children were taking those same steps, making their own mark on the world of Pokémon.
He couldn't help but chuckle to himself, thinking about Ash's first battle against him. Technically, Ash hadn't defeated him, but sometimes, Brock mused, it's the journey and the lessons learned that matter more than the actual victories. And now, witnessing Kieran's journey from its onset, it was evident that the young trainer had a promising road ahead.
Brock leaned back, gazing at the ceiling of the gym. "Time really does fly," he whispered to himself. "I can't believe it's been so many years already. I wonder where Kieran will be by the end of the year." As memories of his own adventures with Ash and Misty played in his mind, he felt reassured that Kieran was well on his way to making unforgettable memories of his own.