Much has happened, and Laoise called to tell her family the moment she and her travelling companions have reached the pokèmon center in Pewter City.

Laoise has made a video phone call to the Bluebell Hollows. "Mom, Dad, Shae, Taryn… Ash tried to catch a Weedle but a boy in Samurai armor challenged him to a battle, and it soon became a slow one involving Metapod vs. Metapod, so I decided to try to get my own bug pokèmon. I got the family luck of the Irish because I caught a Metapod!"

Dave laughed proudly "That's my girl!"

"Way to go baby sis!" Taryn applauded.

Yet Laoise hadn't finished. "Then a swarm of Beedrill attacked, and Ash's Metapod was taken by them. But Ash was able to rescue his Metapod, and in return, Metapod evolved into Butterfree then put all the attacking Pokémon to sleep with his Sleep Powder attack, So here we are in Pewter City, ready to challenge the gym leader soon as our pokèmon are ready."

"It's a relief to see you're not alone, Bunny boo." Hyacinth said. "I was so worried when I heard what happened at the Viridian city pokèmon center."

"But we all got out safely, Mom." Laoise reassured. "Now I just have to think how I'm going to go about my first gym battle. I can't use my new little friend, knowing what pokèmon type the gym is known for."

"Speaking of strategy, you're gonna have to use your head for this one." Shae said solemnly to her little sister.

Laoise hummed thoughtfully, "Well I thought and thought during our walk to the city and I've got an idea. It's crazy and a big gamble but if it works, my team and I will have a fighting chance." Her voice was filled with determination as she continued, "Pewter City Gym specializes in Rock-type Pokémon, which are strong against Bug-type moves. So, I can't rely on Storm and my newly caught bug Pokémon for this battle."

Her family listened attentively, curiosity evident in their expressions. Dave, her father, spoke up, "What's your plan then, Laoise?"

Laoise grinned, her eyes sparkling with excitement. "I'm going to utilize the Grass type advantage! My Bulby's tough, and I believe he can give us the upper hand in this battle."

Hyacinth, her mother, nodded in agreement. "That's a clever thinking, Bunny boo. But remember, strategy alone won't guarantee victory."

"Goliath is a rock type too, and there's big chance he may know some ground moves." Laoise reasoned.

Taryn chimed in, "And don't forget about your other Pokémon, Laoise. Even if they can't counter the Rock-types, they can still be your moral support."

Laoise's eyes shone with determination as she replied, "Thank you all for your encouragement. I'll train hard and give it my all in the Gym battle. I'll make our family proud!"

Laoise nodded thoughtfully at her family's words. She knew well that battles could turn on a dime, with strategy meaning little against a well-trained opponent.

"You're right, Mom, Shae. We'll practice dodging, and work on building up his endurance." She tickled the small dinosaur affectionately. "Won't we, Bulby my boy?"

Bulbasaur gave a determined little growl. Laoise beamed, ever confident in her starter Pokemon's abilities. "With teamwork, anything is possible. I know if we give it our all, we have a real shot at winning!"

"That's the spirit, Laoise!" Taryn cheered. "You show that gym leader what you're made of!"

Dave nodded proudly. "We'll be rooting for you every step of the way. Now go get some rest - you've got a big battle ahead!"

"Thanks everyone. I'll call you after the match! Bye!" With waves and smiles, Laoise signed off, ready to train hard for the challenge.

Nurse Joy then said, "Incidentally, did any of you see that poster?"

On the wall there was a poster for the Pokèmon League Regional championships. It even had the tagline: 'Enter the competition!'

Ash read the main lettering, "The Pokémon Regional Championship. All right!"

"It sounds exciting!" Laoise remarked.

"The Pokémon Regional Championship. All right! Then that's what I'll do! I'll enter the Pokémon League and win!" Ash said confidently.

"And I'm joining." Laoise said with a nod.

"Ha!" Misty scoffed.

Ash looked at her, "Huh? What's the matter?"

"To compete in the Regional Championships, you need to beat gym trainers from different towns and get their badges as proof. Can you do that?" Misty said, her voice dripping with condescension.

Ash retorted. "Of course I can."

"What do you think I've been doing? Training among Freedom fighters to wage war with an evil overlord?" Laoise said sarcastically to Misty. "All it takes is to win eight gym badges and compete the Pokémon League Championships."

The middle aged man who had been selling rocks earlier, the youngsters had seen before entering Pewter city, Flint, laughed derisively. "Don't tell me you two plan on challenging Brock, the Pewter City gym leader."

"Of course we do!" Ash answered back. "As soon as Pikachu and both our Pokémon are all better, we'll have no problem. Take us to this Brock's gym. We'll beat him!"

Flint laughed but it sounded low and nearly flat. "You two will beat him?" He laughed some more walking away.

"That'd better not an ableist crack, mister!" Laoise growled at the retreating man. "Just cuz I'm neurodivergent doesn't mean I can't try!"

Flint halted and looked back at Laoise, his face expressionless. For a long moment he said nothing, studying the small girl's resolute expression. Finally, in a neutral tone, he said. ""Don't waste your energy. It's not a matter of whether a neurodivergent trainer can or cannot. As the Pewter Gym Leader, Brock is a formidable opponent."

Laoise met his gaze steadily, unfazed. "I don't lack ability - only difference. My Pokémon and I will battle with heart, strategy and training. The rest is up to skill and chance."

A smile faintly tugged at Flint's lips, the first hint of warmth. "Heh, well your head isn't made out of straw you know. Use it well, that should be enough in your case."

Later the trio was in a restaurant, eating their lunch and talking about the upcoming battle.

Ash was grumbling, "Oh, that Flint! Trying to make a fool out of me and my competitors."

"Oh ignore him, Ash." Laoise said as she ate her stew. "The guy can't even make up his mind whether to support or use constructive criticism right."

Misty was finishing her meal. "Do you really think you can win?" she challenged. "Gym leaders are different from your everyday Pokémon trainer, they're much, much tougher.

Laoise rolled her eyes at her tone. "Uh duhhhh! They're a lot more experienced and many of them specialize in a particular type of pokèmon." She was glad she did her research before setting off on her journey.

Misty ignored her. "I'll tell you what, Ash, if you ask me really nicely, I'll help you out."

Ash answered back with a full mouth, "I don't need your help."

Laoise raise her chin. "Me either, I already have a pokèmon or two for this occasion."

Misty was irritated. "Is that so? Fine with me!" And she stood up.

Laoise added sternly, "Last I checked, you can't borrow someone else's pokèmon for a gym battle."

"There's no way either of you'll beat Brock in the Pewter City gym." Misty grumbled and she stormed out of the restaurant with a huff.

Ash then noticed the bill. "Hey! You can't leave us with the bill! Come back here!"

"Oh, calm down, we'll split it." Laoise said soberly. "She's just mad that she won't be getting to lord a favor over your head."

Ash frowned, drumming his fingers on the table in irritation. "Geez, what's her problem? We don't need her help anyway."

Laoise patted his arm reassuringly. "Ah, forget her for now, Ash. Brock is tough, but we've got skills of our own."

She pushed aside her empty bowl with a sigh. "Now, we'd best pay up and get back to training. My team and have moves to practice if we want a chance of winning!"

After dividing the bill, the two returned to the Pokèmon center. Ash wanted to visit the gym at once, Laoise wished him well and said she'll be training Bulby and Goliath before she challenges Brock.

"Don't wait too long," Ash said.

"I'll see you and Pikachu in a couple of hours." Laoise waved in reassurance.

Laoise headed to the training area with Bulby and Goliath. She was determined to make the most of the time she had before challenging Brock, the Pewter City gym leader.

She found an open space in the training area, where her two Pokémon could practice their moves. Laoise released her Bulbasaur and her Onix with a smile, taking a moment to observe Bulby and Goliath, assessing their current strengths and areas that needed improvement.

"All right Bulby, you ready to work on your Razor Leaf?" The dinosaur chirped determinedly. "That's my boy! Now dodging is key - Brock's rock Pokemon will be fast. So when I say move, you jump left or right, got it?"

Bulby nodded, ready to train. Laoise took out a target dummy and set it up at a distance. She watched as Bulby concentrated, its vines extending and lashing out with controlled force. With each attempt, Bulby's aim improved, hitting the target more accurately.

Meanwhile, Laoise approached Goliath, her Onix. She patted its rocky exterior gently, giving words of encouragement.

"Now Brock's rock pokèmon will be more experienced." Laoise had said gently to Goliath. "So be ready for anything Big guy, okay?"

Goliath, Laoise's Onix, rumbled in response to her words of encouragement. It understood the importance of being prepared for anything that Brock's Rock-type Pokémon might throw at them. Laoise patted Goliath's rocky exterior, feeling a sense of determination welling up within her.

"You're right, Goliath," Laoise said, her voice filled with conviction. "Brock's Pokémon will likely be more experienced, but so are we. We've trained hard, and we won't back down. We'll face whatever challenges come our way head-on."

Goliath let out a low growl, its eyes gleaming with determination. It was ready to prove its strength and show that it could overcome any obstacle. Laoise smiled, feeling a deep bond with her Pokémon.

"Remember, Goliath, strategy will be key in this battle," Laoise continued, her voice steady. "We'll use your Rock-type moves to our advantage, but we must also be mindful of our opponents' strengths. We'll analyze their tactics and adapt accordingly. Together, we can conquer any challenge."

Goliath responded with a resolute nod, its body radiating confidence. Laoise knew that her Pokémon was ready for the test that lay ahead. She couldn't help but feel a surge of excitement as she thought about the battle with Brock.

"I believe in you, Goliath," Laoise said, her voice filled with trust.

"Okay, big fella, let's practice your Rock Throw. We need to make sure your throws are powerful and well-aimed."

Goliath rumbled in response, ready to show its strength. Laoise set up some targets at various distances and watched as Goliath picked up large rocks with its sturdy body and launched them with precision. She could see the improvement in Goliath's aim and power with each throw.

Time flew by, and soon a couple of hours had passed. Both her pokèmon ended up surprising her in positive manner.

Laoise knew that challenging a gym leader was no easy task, but she was determined to give it her all. She believed in the bond she shared with her Pokémon and in their ability to overcome any obstacle.

With a deep breath, Laoise prepared herself for the battle ahead. She knew that win or lose, this experience would make her and her Pokémon stronger. She couldn't wait to meet up with Ash and Pikachu later and share in their journeys together.

Inevitably, Laoise couldn't help but hope that Misty would eventually come around and see the potential in their teamwork. But for now, she focused on her own path, ready to face the challenge that awaited her at the Pewter City gym.

The Pewter City gym was a building made from stone with the Gym's name was visible at the front.

"This must be the place, here goes." Laoise took a deep breath and knocked patiently.

To her surprise, the doors opened easily as if expecting her arrival. For a moment she hesitated, and walked in.

Inside, the gym was dark but from the sunshine pouring in from the doorway, Laoise could see most of it was made from polished rock.

"Hello?" Laoise had squeaked at first. Then a little miffed with herself, she spoke a little bit louder, "Hello? Forgive the intrusion, but I'm here to challenge the gym leader Brock, if you please?"

Again she called out. "Hello, Mr. Gym Leader Brock, sir? I know you're here somewhere. My name is Laoise McGrady of the Bluebell Hollows and I've come to battle for the Boulder Badge."

Her voice echoed off the hard walls. Suddenly, a light flared up, illuminating...

Brock turned out to be fifteen year old boy. He had spiky dark Kournikova hair and a medium skin tone. He wore an orange t-shirt, a lime green cargo vest with four pockets, a dark brown belt with a gold buckle and dark red pockets, brown jeans and blue-gray sneakers with white trim.

Despite his young age, he wasn't the gym leader for nothing. He sat sternly on a stone pedestal waiting in the dark for challengers.

"You're the second challenger to pass through my gym today." Brock stated. "Is this your first gym match too?"

"Yes, it is sir." Laoise confirmed, wondering if he was referring to Ash. However, she had to focus on the upcoming battle, it was time to use her head and her pokèmon must be ready.

"A gym match is different from other battles. This match is for Pokémon League authorization. There are special rules."

Laoise nodded. "Yes, you are the gym leader and must abide by them."

"We will use two Pokémon each. Understood?"

"Done." Laoise agreed. "Let's do this."

"Very well. Let the battle begin!" He snapped his fingers, and spotlights blazed on.

The battlefield, which consists of two halves that can be moved together during battles, was littered with jagged rocks and boulders, and a balcony along the edge above provides spectators a spot to watch Gym battles. The balcony was empty for the moment.

This was it - showtime.

Laoise took a bracing breath and stepped into the light. This terrain suited Rock types well, littered as it was with stones - but it would not hinder her strategy.

"I'm ready when you are, sir!"

The Gym Leader nodded gravely from his stony platform. "Very well then. Go, Onix!"

Another long rock beast emerged.

Laoise blinked. "Called it, an Onix like my Goliath. In which case..." she tossed her pokéball. "Bulby, you're up!"

Her bulbasaur materialized on the battlefield.

Bulbasaur let out a little growl upon seeing the hulking Onix. But he had confidence in his trainer and himself. This was their chance to prove all their training had paid off.

"Alright Bulby, use your Razor Leaf!" Laoise commanded.

Bulbasaur swung his head, unleashing a storm of shining leaves at Onix. The rock Pokémon bellowed, trying to dodge, but some leaves found their mark, scraping its rocky hide.

"Hang in there Onix, use Bind!" Brock ordered.

Onix lunged, giant tail whipping around like a snake.

"Dodge!" a well-timed call from Laoise had Bulby leaping out of the way just in time.

Brock nodded approvingly. "You've trained well. But my Pokémon won't go down so easy. Onix, Tackle attack!"

The rock serpent charged at dizzying speed. Laoise saw her chance. "Grab on Bulby, and hold tight!"

Bracing himself, Bulby wrapped his vines around Onix's rocky plate just before impact, holding on for dear life as it tried to shake him off. But his grip held strong under Laoise's encouragement.

"Great job, Bulby!" Laoise called out, her voice filled with encouragement. "Now use Leech Seed!"

Bulby responded instantly, launching small seeds towards the Onix. The seeds embedded themselves into its rocky exterior, sapping its energy and transferring it to Bulby. Laoise watched as the Leech Seed took effect, hoping that it would give Bulby an advantage in the battle.

"Now give it all you've got, Razor Leaf just one more time!"

With a guttural cry, Bulbasaur unleashed a whirlwind of slicing leaves point-blank.

Bulby's razor-sharp leaves sliced through the air, creating a whirlwind of green projectiles that struck Brock's Onix with precision.

The Gym leader's Onix roared defiantly before it shuddered, then fell still with swirly eyes.

Laoise's heart raced with excitement and relief as she watched Onix fall. She couldn't help but feel a surge of pride for Bulby's excellent performance.

"Well done, Bulby!" Laoise exclaimed, her voice filled with genuine admiration. "That was amazing!"

Bulby, panting slightly but still full of energy, turned to Laoise with a satisfied expression. It had fought valiantly and emerged victorious, proving its strength and determination.

Laoise quickly recalled Bulby into its Poké Ball, giving it a well-deserved rest. She then turned her attention back to Brock, who observed the battle with a stoic expression.

"An impressive display of skill," Brock acknowledged, his tone respectful. "Your Bulbasaur is strong and well-trained. But the battle is not over yet."

Laoise nodded, her eyes fixed on Brock. "I'm ready for whatever comes next," Laoise replied, her voice determined. "Bring it on, Brock!"

"Better be ready," Brock said. "Go Geodude!"

Geodude was a brownish-gray boulder Pokémon. It has bulging, rocky eyebrows, trapezoidal eyes with brown pupils, and a wide mouth. Its arms are muscular with five-fingered hands.

"A Geodude, as expected." Laoise whipped out her Pokedex for a quick scan. "Alright then. This is probably unconventional but he's ready." She reached for her next pokéball. "Goliath, it's go time!"

Laoise's heart raced with anticipation as she released her trusty Onix, Goliath, onto the battlefield. Goliath's massive form towered over the rocky terrain, its rocky exterior gleaming under the bright lights of the gym.

"Time to show them what you're made of, Goliath!" Laoise called out, her voice filled with confidence. "Let's give it our all!"

Goliath rumbled with determination, ready to face the formidable Geodude. Its rocky body exuded strength and power, a testament to the intense training it had undergone.

Brock observed the scene, his expression unreadable. He had seen many challengers come and go, but Laoise's fierce tenacity and quick thinking had caught his attention.

"Geodude, use Rock Throw!" Brock commanded.

Without hesitation, Geodude's muscular arms flexed as it gathered rocks from the battlefield. With a swift motion, it hurled the stones towards Goliath, aiming to strike with accuracy.

Laoise's eyes narrowed as she assessed the situation. She knew that Goliath's rock-hard exterior would provide some defense, but she needed to act swiftly to avoid taking unnecessary damage.

"Goliath, use Harden!" Laoise called out, her voice firm.

Goliath responded, its rocky body growing even tougher as it activated the Harden technique. The stones hurled by Geodude collided with Goliath's hardened armor, causing minimal damage.

Laoise felt a surge of relief as she witnessed Goliath's resilience. She knew that they needed to seize the opportunity to strike back.

"Goliath, retaliate with Rock Slide!" Laoise commanded, her voice filled with determination.

Goliath complied, summoning a cascade of rocks from the surrounding terrain. The rocks tumbled down towards Geodude, aiming to overwhelm it with their sheer force.

Brock's eyes widened slightly as knowing that Geodude had to act quickly to avoid being caught in the Rock Slide.

"Geodude, use Rollout to evade!" Brock shouted.

Geodude responded swiftly, tucking itself into a ball and rolling to the side, narrowly avoiding the incoming rocks. Laoise watched with a mix of frustration and admiration for Brock's quick thinking.

With the Rock Slide evaded, Geodude quickly uncurled itself, ready to counterattack. Laoise knew that she needed to stay focused and come up with a new strategy.

"Goliath, use Bind!" Laoise commanded, her voice determined.

Goliath lunged forward, its massive body moving with surprising agility. It wrapped its rocky body around Geodude, squeezing tightly in a vice-like grip.

Geodude dodged the advance out but Goliath was prepared.

Now for Laoise and Goliath's secret weapon, a ground move attack.

"Goliath, dig attack!" Laoise called.

Goliath obeyed Laoise's command without hesitation, disappearing into the ground with a mighty rumble. The earth shifted as the massive Onix burrowed beneath the battlefield, preparing for its secret weapon: the Dig attack.

"What?!" Brock watched in astonishment as Goliath vanished from sight. He hadn't expected Laoise to employ such a tactic, and it left him momentarily stunned.

"Laoise, you've surprised me," Brock admitted, his voice tinged with a mix of admiration and curiosity. "Let's see how well your strategy pays off."

The ground trembled, signaling Goliath's reappearance. With a powerful burst of earth, the colossal Onix erupted from the ground, aiming to strike Geodude from below.

Geodude, caught off guard by the unexpected attack, struggled to react in time. The rocky Pokémon found itself caught in the path of Goliath's powerful Dig attack, delivering a devastating blow. The impact sent Geodude flying, its body crashing onto the wall with a resounding thud.

The Gym Leader's Geodude lay dizzy, unable to continue the battle. Brock's expression was a mix of surprise and respect as he recalled his defeated Pokémon.

"Geodude, return!"

Laoise beamed at Goliath with limitless pride and joy. Her Onix had pulled off its first flawless win!

"Holy Mackerel, it worked!" Laoise jumped excitedly and rushed out to hug Goliath.

Her Onix gently nuzzled her with a happy rumble.

"I must commend you, it's not often first time trainers successfully catch wild Onix let alone one that learned Ground type moves."

Laoise flushed remembering how she'd first caught Goliath nearly two weeks ago. "Ah well, that's kind of long story there." Admittedly, she had panicked at the sight, who wouldn't be afraid of a twenty eight foot and ten inch tall rock snake staring at you in the face?

Brock approached with a solemn smile. "Regardless, well done, Laoise," He said, his tone filled with genuine admiration. "You and your pokèmon make a formidable team. Your ingenuity and skill have earned you the Boulder Badge."

He opened his hand and handed her the boulder badge, a grey octagonal badge as a symbol of her victory in defeating the Pewter City gym leader.

A sense of accomplishment washed over Laoise as she accepted the Boulder Badge from Brock. She had proven herself as a skilled trainer, overcoming the challenges thrown her way.

"Oh, thank you." Laoise replied, her voice filled with gratitude. "This means a lot to me and my team. We worked hard for this victory."

With a final nod of respect, Laoise took her leave from the Pewter City Gym, her heart filled with joyous excitement. Her first gym battle and she emerged victorious, she couldn't wait to tell her family!

"Never beat him, huh Misty?" Laoise smirked, remembering what the redhead tomboy had said. "Ha! Tell that to my boys Bulby and Goliath!"

She wanted to find Ash and tell him. Laoise saw the boy up ahead, she raced over to him happily but stopped short at seeing the dejected look on Ash's face. In his arms was an unconscious Pikachu.

"Ash?"

They then notice Flint, who told the two to follow him. They go back to Flint's cabin where Pikachu is asleep recovering in a little futon bed.

Once they were settled inside, Ash explained to Laoise what had happened.

His gym battle with Brock had begun with Ash sending Pikachu on to the gym field and Brock sent out his Onix. Pikachu was afraid and tried to tag Pidgeotto's Poké Ball but was sent back into the match by Ash. Onix then used Bind attack on Pikachu, who responded by using a Thundershock, which had no effect on Onix. Worried, Ash attempted to recall Pikachu, but it was blocked by Onix. Onix continued to use Bind until Ash surrendered in order to protect Pikachu.

"Oh, I'm sorry." Laoise looked abashed.

"Don't be." Ash said glumly. It's not your fault."

Flint came up with a wooden tray of tea. "Everyone loses sometimes, you can't let that get you down.

"I know! But I didn't just lose, I stunk!" Ash said, "Brock's way better than me. I could never enter a league match if I can't beat him!"

Laoise patted his shoulder. "Cheer up, Ash, I know you'll win next time."

Flint drank from his tea, "Brock is very good. His own talents could take him much further than simply being a local gym leader."

"Yeah, but why has he never been in a regional championship himself?" Ash had wondered glumly.

"Yeah, with that level of ferocity and knowledge he could make it big." Laoise remarked.

Flint answered, "He has his reasons."

Before Ash and Laoise knew it, Flint had taken them to a bamboo fence covered with bushes but low enough for them to look into a house full of several children. An adult was cooking in the kitchen chopping some vegetables. Then a little girl ran up to the one cooking.

"I tore my skirt!"

The cooking adult turned…

Laoise murmured in surprise. "Brock?"

Ash was so taken aback by this scene, he didn't pipe a word.

Yep, from the look of it despite still being a teenage gym leader, Brock was also somewhat of a family man.

"All right. All right. I'll sew it up for you." Brock was saying to the little girl and began to do so.

"Wow. I sure never thought of Brock like that." Ash admitted.

Laoise nodded. "Me either."

Flint then explained, "Brock has ten little brothers and sisters to take care of, so he could never leave town for regional championships."

"Well, that's very sweet of him." Laoise said kindly, "It takes a dedicated, self-less person to be able to look after his siblings. But…"

Ash asked the very question on Laoise's mind. "Doesn't he have a mom or a dad?"

"His good-for-nothing father left the family to become a Pokémon trainer and they never heard from him again." Flint answered, "Brock's heartbroken mother tried her best to hold things together, but, sadly, she's gone."

"What about his grandparents?" Laoise questioned.

Flint shook his head. "I'm afraid Brock's the only one his little brothers and sisters have left."

Laoise listened to the heartbreaking story of Brock's family situation and couldn't help but feel a wave of sympathy wash over her. She had known Brock as a tough and skilled Gym Leader, but now she saw a different side to him. The selflessness and dedication he displayed in taking care of his siblings were

It truly put Brock's strength of character in perspective. To shoulder such responsibility at his age... truly admirable.

"I better not listen to anymore sad stuff. Next time I have a match with Brock, I might not have the heart to beat him." Ash said.

"I feel you there, Ash," Laoise said softly, her voice filled with compassion. "It's difficult to face someone in battle when you know the challenges they've had to overcome. But it's not about defeating or hurting others, but about pushing ourselves to be the best we can be."

Flint looked at Ash in surprise. "But, but you said that, you said you could never win a match with Brock."

"Yeah, well I changed my mind about that! If I can power up Pikachu, I'll beat him!"

Laoise stopped, "That might take some work and a lot of cunning."

"Hm. I may just know a way you can supercharge Pikachu." Flint then said to

Once Pikachu was awake and rested up, he showed them to a hydroelectric power plant on the outskirts of the city and says that it can be used to power up Pikachu.

Flint explained. "The river turns the wheel and makes electricity, and if you hook Pikachu up to it, you might be able to give it a power boost."

Ash chirped. "Thanks, Mr. Flint. That's a great idea!"

Laoise didn't say anything but looked at the small building curiously.

"Gee, how do you know so much about Pokémon, huh?" Ash had then asked Flint.

The man was flustered for a moment. "Me? Uh, you see, I, uh. Well, I just got lucky, I guess. That's it, lucky."

Ash then looked to his loyal little friend. "Well, Pikachu, get ready to power up!"

Pikachu nodded determinedly. "Pikachu."

The river was partially dry, so Flint had another idea to make it work. Ash would climb on to the water wheel to push it walking/climbing on the wheel. This will power up the generator, which is connected to Pikachu's cheeks.

Pikachu began to feel the pain of the increased electricity, nevertheless Flint spoke encouraging words that it will soon get used to the high voltage. Which will soon prove true.

Laoise had been worried momentarily, and went outside to check on Ash. "The power up is almost at the halfway point, how you doing up there?"

"Then I gotta keep going." Ash replied.

"Hey, Ash!" Misty had shown up and was standing a couple feet from the water wheel. "Wouldn't it be a lot better to just ask me for help instead of going with this crazy power plan of yours?" she said this with a patronizing tone.

Laoise pursed her lips, and Ash answered back to Misty, "Forget it! I'll win without your help."

Misty blinked then huffed. "Huh? What do I care?"

"I'm gonna get a badge all by myself using the Pokémon I'm training!" Ash grunted.

"Using an unfamiliar Pokémon is not exactly easy and borrowing doesn't count for official Gym battles." Laoise retorted to Misty, she opened her badge case and showed the redhead the boulder badge. "FYI, if I could do it, then so can Ash!"

Misty visibly soured at being proven wrong about Laoise's prowess. "You only won because of willpower and type advantage. It'd be a lot easier if he used some of my Pokémon, too."

"No, I know the deal." Laoise snapped back. "YOU just want a reason for Ash to beg for your help on his knees, and don't hear how you constantly condescend the way you always do!"

Laoise's words were sharp, she couldn't stand Misty's condescending attitude and the way she seemed to belittle Ash's efforts.

Misty stomped her foot in frustration. "Ugh, I can't work with this!" and she walked away.

Laoise turned away from Misty, her focus returning to the task at hand. She knew that Ash's training and determination would see him through, and she intended to support him every step of the way. For she knew what it was like to be put down and underestimated.

The whole plant is illuminated by a bright yellow light...

The next day, Ash and Laoise were outside the Pewter gym, ready for Ash's rematch.

Ash pushed open the doors, "I'm back!"

Brock quipped to Ash, "Haven't you learned your lesson yet!?"

"We're ready for you this time, Brock!" Ash declared.

Pikachu grinned, his cheeks crackled with electricity.

Laoise placed a hand on Ash's shoulder. "You've got this, Ash. I believe in you!"

And she made her way to the balcony to watch the match as the lights illuminated the battlefield.

Brock laughed, and cued the start of the match, "We'll see. Two Pokéballs!"

Ash said, "Got it!"

While the match started, Laoise reached the balcony to see someone else also watching the match: Misty.

"What're you doing here?" Laoise put her hands on her hips with a glare.

Misty glowered back. "Same as you: to watch the match."

Down below, the rematch had begun in earnest. Geodude faced off against Pigeotto, looking resolute despite type disadvantage.

"Don't underestimate Ash. He's a lot more perseverant than we give him credit for." Laoise turned to Misty pointedly. "Unlike some people, he doesn't need flattery or handouts to win."

Misty bristled but didn't take the bait. Together they watched the thrilling battle unfold.

Ash has Pidgeotto use Gust attack, which fails to cause any damage and Geodude then begins trying to punch Pidgeotto, as Ash learns something that Brock already knows: Flying Pokémon are weak against Rock Pokémon. Misty is shown watching from the rafters, with Brock's siblings joining her. Pidgeotto then falls to the ground, exhausted, and Pikachu enters the battle. Pikachu uses a powerful Thundershock to knock out Geodude, despite the type disadvantage. Brock then recalls Geodude, realizing that Ash has trained Pikachu well. He sends out Onix a second time. A scared Pikachu then begins to use Thundershock, not caring about where it aims. The thundershock causes a fire to start in the rafters. Onix, however, traps Pikachu using its Bind attack. Pikachu lets off a Thunderbolt attack, which causes Onix pain but when Pikachu runs out of energy Onix continues with its Bind attack.

Brock tells Onix to release Pikachu but Ash refuses to end the match. The sprinklers in the gym go off due to the fire sparks, and in so doing this causes Brock's Onix to start roaring in pain.

"What the-?" Laoise was taken by surprise.

Misty yelled down to Ash, "Ash! Rock Pokémon are weakened by water!"

"But this doesn't count!" Laoise said in concern.

Misty facepalmed at her words. "Doesn't count?!"

"In a gym battle we're supposed to defeat the pokèmon with different moves not some crazy chain reaction!" Laoise reasoned.

It might not be logical or even advantageous, but it was preferable. consider the integrity of the battle. Misty's hint was well-meaning, but unintentionally compromised the intended contest of skills.

As the water comes down and severely weakens Onix, Pikachu's electrical power takes away even more of his energy until it fell.

Brock was shocked, "Onix!"

The sprinklers finally stopped as Onix struggled to stand up again.

"Pikachu! Finish it off!" Ash said.

But just before he could call down the final blow, all of Brock's brothers and sisters get involved and held him back, though Ash thought it was his conscience as he knows his eyes are closed and feels that he can't move.

"My conscience is holding me back!" Ash said, "I can't bring myself to beat Brock! I'm imagining Brock's little brothers and sisters stopping me from beating the one person they love!"

Misty said worriedly, "Ash, I think you better open your eyes!"

Laoise chimed in, "But Ash, it IS Brock's little brothers and sisters!"

Ash opened his eyes and saw that Brock's siblings were hanging on to him and holding back his attack.

"You leave Onix alone!" One of the little boys said, "Our brother worked hard to raise him, you big bully!"

Ash was taken aback, "Believe me, kid, I'm no bully."

"Kids, don't! You're all right in the middle of a match!" Laoise cried, remembering well that an injured Onix can be dangerous.

Brock sternly said, "She's right! Stop it! Get off, all of you! This is an official match, and we're gonna finish it, no matter what. "

One of his little sisters cried, "But, Brock! We know that we love your Pokémon so much!"

"That's why we can't watch Onix suffer from another attack!" added Brock's little brothers.

Ash looked thoughtful for a moment then, "Pikachu, return!"

Pikachu returned to Ash's side at once.

Brock rebuked, "What do you think you're doing? This match isn't over yet, Ash."

Ash replied confidently, "Laoise's right. Those sprinklers going off was just an accident, winning the match because of that wouldn't have proved anything. Next time we meet, I'll beat you my way. Fair and square!"

And he walked out with Pikachu following.

Brock murmured reflectively. "Maybe."

Misty slumped over from her spot in the balcony. "Just when he finally gets a lucky break, he decides to be a nice guy, too."

Laoise then said, "But he's right. It has to be done honorably."

Winning through an accident wouldn't satisfy Ash at all. He wants to prove himself through skill alone.

Later, Laoise joined Ash and Pikachu as they're walking away from Pewter City.

"Chin up, Ash you'll get that badge next time."

"Thanks." Ash replied he then said to his pokèmon, "I'm sorry if I was too tough on you, Pikachu. But you really did a great job."

Pikachu agreed. "Pikachu."

Ash smiled. "Guess you feel the same way."

Then to their surprise, Brock came running up to them, flagging down Ash.

"Brock?"

"Ash, you forgot this." Brock held out the Boulder badge.

Ash stared. "A badge, for defeating a gym trainer?"

Laoise pointed out, "But what about the accident. He couldn't go on because of it."

Ash looked away solemnly. "She's right, I can't accept that. I didn't beat you, I gave up."

Brock shook his head. "Nah. I lost to you. You beat me in battle and in being kind to all Pokémon."

Ash began, "But..."

Brock looked out at the horizon wistfully, "To tell you all the truth, I get more pleasure from raising Pokémon then from making them battle. I don't care about being a great Pokémon trainer, I wanna become the world's best breeder. But I can't leave from here because I have to look after my brothers and sisters." He then turned to them, "Ash, I want you to take this and fulfill my dream. Will you do that for me?"

Ash agreed. "I will!" He took the badge. "And I'll do my best to deserve this, too."

Flint then turned up and takes off his disguise, revealing himself to be the 'good-for-nothing' father of Brock, much to everyone's shock. Flint then revealed that he could not face his family after failing to be a Pokémon Trainer but that Brock should not take on his responsibilities as a father.

Ash then asks Flint why he helped him and not Brock, with Flint responding that Ash reminded him of himself as he didn't seem to have a chance on his own. Flint tells Brock to go fulfill his dreams. Initially it would seem Brock would give his own father tongue lashing… then he handed Flint a needle and tells him that Suzie always tears her dress, Timmy only eats cold spaghetti for breakfast, Tommy likes cornflakes for dinner, that Cindy sleep walks so he should tie a bell to her and that the twins do not like to take a bath. A list of things that Flint would have to write down to remember.

Finally, Ash, Laoise, Brock and Pikachu embark on their journey.

Brock asked, "Hey guys, are you sure it's okay if I go with you on your Pokémon journey?"

Ash confirmed, "Sure we're sure!"

"You can never have too many travelling companions." Laoise said brightly.

On the plus side, it would give her parents extra peace of mind that a responsible former gym leader would be joining their travelling group too.

"And it's nice to have someone for me and Laoise to talk with." added Ash.

"But what about that girl who's always following you?" asked Brock.

"Who Misty?" Laoise jerked a thumb behind her.

Speaking of which, the tomboy was a few feet behind them. "Don't forget about my bike, Ash Ketchum! I'm gonna follow you until you pay me back!" Misty said.

Ash sweat dropped, "I know. I know! Pikachu, let's try to lose her."

Pikachu nodded. "Chu!"

Ash then grabbed ahold of Laoise's hoodie. "Come on, let's get out of here!"

Laoise is taken by surprise, "Ash, slow down!"

They begin to run off at the same time Team Rocket dug their way out of the ground, although they are trampled on by the running group. A depressed Jessie then reflected on Team Rocket's fate and states that they've 'reached rock bottom', just before they fall back into the hole.

A day later, while traveling from Pewter to Cerulean City, the group passed through Mt. Moon. They run into a scientist named Seymour who studies the Clefairy who live in the area. He purported that Clefairy actually come from space, the evidence of this being a huge boulder called the Moon Stone deep in Mt. Moon. He believed that humans are trying to take this stone, noting the electric lights strung through the cave and signs of excavation. It is quickly revealed to be the work of Team Rocket when Meowth appears to take a small stone that a passing Clefairy is carrying. He claimed that they are going to use the Moon Stone to make their Pokémon more powerful. Team Rocket begins a Pokémon battle with Ash and Brock while Seymour, Laoise and Misty followed Meowth who is tracking Clefairy. After repelling Team Rocket, the group took a quick rest before a Clefairy shows them the location of the giant Moon Stone, which is surrounded by smaller fragments the Clefairy have gathered. The Clefairy began to dance around it. Team Rocket shows up again and successfully steals the Moon Stone, but are stopped when the Clefairy attacked them with a group Metronome – an attack that was always a gamble or chaotic, for one never knows what kind of attack will be replicated. Afterwards, many of them evolved into Clefable. So our heroes continue on the path while Seymour stays behind to live with the Clefairy and Clefable.

Finally the group reached a form in the path and a sign that said the road lead to Cerulean city.

Brock remarked, "Well, I guess we're headed the right way."

Out of the corner of her eye, Laoise could see Misty looking uncertain.

"And there's something else scribbled here."

Ash brightly said, "Yeah, well, they say some kids like to write silly notes on these signs. What's it say?" He looked and saw written in small black marker, " 'Gary was here, Ash is a... loser'?!"

"There's something else. It says, 'Nobody can even see Lollipop McGrady.'" Brock looked a little confused with the writing.

Laoise made a face. "He keeps calling me that!"

"Why is he calling you 'Lollipop'?" grumbled Ash.

Laoise sighed. "Does the tune…" She placed her hands under her chin to flap them like wings. " 'We represent the lollipop guild', from the Wizard of Oz ring a bell?"

"Oh."

"It's : the lullaby league." Misty corrected.

"Whatever, the point is, he's calling me a munchkin because of my short stature." Laoise rolled her eyes. At twelve, Laoise was only two inches taller than Ash but considerably shorter than Misty and Brock.

"Yeesh, of all the dumb nicknames," Laoise rolled her eyes in annoyance. "I'm gonna crack that grinning gremlin's jaw one of these days."

Ash growled still angry about the loser remark. "I'll show him!"

And he ran down the path angrily, determined to reach the city. Misty was standing still, face troubled.

However, Brock was a little more focused on Ash. "He'll never learn."

While Laoise was more than ready for her next gym battle.

"Well I don't know about you two, but I'm headed for Cerulean city too!" Laoise advised. "Let's catch up!"

It looks like a new adventure is waiting in the next city are they headed towards victory, danger, or disaster?

To be continued...

Author's note: Yeah, I thought I'd partially summarize the Clefairy adventure even if some scenes were fun in that episode. Now, I did my best using my head and extra research for the gym battle. Laoise still has a long way to go in training and other aspects, which what I'll be exploring through her point of view during the adventures in the Kanto region. Don't miss the next chapter which will take place in Cerulean City.