Master Quest: Kanto
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Naruto x ?
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Story Start
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The midday sun struggled to penetrate the thick canopy of Viridian Forest as Naruto and Leaf ventured deeper along the winding trail that Ryo had pointed out. Leaf had just defeated Ryo's fully evolved Beedrill, a feat that left her both excited and mentally exhausted. Bulbasaur, resting in its Poké Ball, had taken considerable damage and needed a good break.
Naruto led the way, stepping carefully over gnarled roots and wet undergrowth. His aura sensitivity kept him attuned to any lurking threats among the shadows.
"Stay alert," he reminded Leaf, pausing to make sure she was still close. "These woods can be tricky. Even without disturbing the main Beedrill swarm, we could run into hostile wild Pokémon."
Leaf nodded, her eyes scanning the area. "I'm sticking close, Sensei."
A hush settled in the forest—only the distant buzz of insect wings and the occasional cry of a bird Pokémon broke the silence. The terrain was noticeably rugged: exposed tree roots jutted from the soil, moss-covered boulders blocked portions of the trail, and patches of soft mud made certain steps precarious.
Leaf had often daydreamed about exploring forests for her journey, but she'd never imagined Viridian could be so…imposing. She clutched Bulbasaur's Poké Ball in one hand as though it were a talisman of courage.
They rounded a bend in the path, where the trail narrowed significantly. Moonlight-like rays of sunlight filtered through small gaps overhead, and dead leaves crunched under their boots. Naruto paused, his gaze sweeping the area.
Leaf's pulse quickened. "Do you sense something?"
Naruto's voice was low. "There's a presence nearby. Not a swarm—just one or two Pokémon. Stronger than the typical Caterpie or Weedle."
They slowed their steps, creeping quietly until the narrow trail opened into a cramped clearing, surrounded by dense thickets. There, nibbling on a cluster of Oran Berries, was a Nidoran—its fur a pastel shade of purple and its ears twitching with every faint sound.
Leaf's eyes lit up. "A Nidoran … They're not super common. Especially here."
Naruto observed the Pokémon for a moment. "Nidoran can pack a punch, especially if it knows Poison Sting or Double Kick. Are you interested in catching it?"
Leaf chewed her lip, recalling that she already had Bulbasaur. "Nidoran's final evolution line is powerful. Plus, it could cover some type weaknesses down the road. And—"
Before she could finish, the Nidoran's ears pricked upright. It must have sensed them. The small poison-type snarled, baring tiny fangs, and prepared for battle.
Naruto stepped back. "Your call, Leaf."
She took a bracing breath. "I'd like to at least try. But Bulbasaur's a bit worn out. Maybe I should see if Bulbasaur's okay to fight again, or…maybe I should do a stealthy approach to weaken it first."
Naruto's gaze flicked to the high branches overhead. "We need to be careful. If that Nidoran calls for help or we make too much commotion, we could attract Beedrill or worse. A quick battle might be best."
Leaf nodded. "All right, let's do it."
She unclipped Bulbasaur's Poké Ball. "Bulbasaur—go!"
Bulbasaur materialized in a flash of light, looking tired but determined. Leaf applied a quick Potion spray onto its back. "Sorry to call you out again so soon. Let's see if we can finish this fast."
The Nidoran hissed, fur bristling, then lunged forward with a Peck—a move it could learn at lower levels. Bulbasaur just barely dodged. Leaf clenched her fists.
"Bulbasaur, Vine Whip!"
The Grass-type's vines lashed out. Nidoran leaped to the side, agile despite its squat body. It countered with a quick Poison Sting, purple needles shooting from its mouth. Bulbasaur yelped as some of the stingers grazed its flank.
"Hang tough," Leaf called. "Use Growl!"
Bulbasaur let out a low, intimidating rumble, making the Nidoran pause and take a step back. That brief hesitation was enough for Leaf to press the advantage:
"Vine Whip, rapid strikes!"
Bulbasaur flicked its vines with all the strength it could muster, landing two hits on the Nidoran. The little poison-type squealed, stumbling back. Leaf seized the moment, retrieving a Poké Ball from her belt pouch.
"Poké Ball—go!"
She lobbed the ball at the staggering Nidoran, and it was pulled inside in a flash of red light. The ball quivered on the ground once…twice…then clicked, the red light on the center button fading.
Leaf exhaled shakily. "We got it."
Naruto's expression softened with pride. "Nice job. Quick and clean, minimal stress to Bulbasaur." He stepped over and patted Bulbasaur's head. "You did well."
Bulbasaur, panting, blinked in relief. Leaf crouched to gently stroke its side, mindful of any bruises. "I'm so proud of you. That was a tough day—two trainer battles and a wild Nidoran catch. Let's get you some proper rest after this."
Recalling Bulbasaur into its ball, Leaf then scooped up the new Nidoran's ball, cradling it in her hand. "I'll have to take it to a Pokémon Center soon, but I'm happy to have a new member on the team."
Naruto gave a small nod of approval. "Catching a second Pokémon at this stage is good, especially with the route we're taking. Nidoran will come in handy—its poison-typing and potential ground-typing after evolution can cover a wide range of matchups."
Leaf grinned. "I'll do my best to train it well."
They continued along the narrow trail for another hour, weaving through thickets and ducking under low-hanging vines. The forest air became cool and damp, and a peculiar hush fell over the area, as though large predators might be nearby. At one point, Naruto paused, motioning Leaf to be silent. He scanned the treetops, aura flaring around him.
After a tense moment, he relaxed. "Just a flock of Butterfree passing overhead. We're fine."
Leaf let out a breath. "I'm glad. I'm not eager to fight a whole flock of them."
Eventually, they reached a stream trickling through a mossy ravine. The gentle sound of water felt oddly soothing after the tension of stealthy travel. Naruto pointed at a small clearing near the bank.
"We can rest here—eat, let our Pokémon get some fresh air. We should be safe, as long as we keep our guard up."
They set down their packs. Leaf released Bulbasaur and her new Nidoran, while Naruto let out one of his own Pokémon—a Lucario. The bipedal, jackal-like Pokémon appeared in a burst of light, its steel-blue fur glinting. Leaf's eyes went wide.
"You have a Lucario?" she whispered in awe. "I—I know you're an aura adept, and Lucario is known for its aura abilities, but still…"
Naruto gently patted Lucario's shoulder. "This is Kage. We've traveled together for a long time." The Lucario glanced at Leaf, then at Bulbasaur and Nidoran, giving them an appraising stare.
Leaf noticed how Lucario's crimson eyes seemed to glow with quiet intensity—like it was measuring everything in the environment. "Hello, Kage," she said, bowing slightly. "It's an honor."
Kage nodded in a polite gesture, though it didn't speak. Leaf felt a faint aura-like presence from it, as though it was acknowledging her sincerity.
Naruto chuckled at her reaction. "No need to be so formal. Lucario is strong, but he's just like any other Pokémon—he likes to train, and he respects trainers who show heart."
Leaf scratched the back of her neck, embarrassed. "Right, sorry. I guess I'm just starstruck."
They let the Pokémon lounge in the clearing. Bulbasaur flopped onto a soft bed of leaves, dozing, while Nidoran gingerly sniffed the air around it, occasionally looking back at Leaf for reassurance. She approached it gently, offering a piece of Poké Puff from her bag.
"Hey there, little guy," she said, holding the treat out. "I know that battle was quick and unexpected. Let's be friends, okay?"
Nidoran hesitated, then cautiously stepped forward and nibbled the treat. Leaf smiled, patting its head. She could feel Nidoran relax under her touch.
A few yards away, Naruto sat on a smooth rock, rummaging in his pack. He withdrew a small jar labeled Balm Mushroom Poultice and handed it to Leaf.
"This is good for Pokémon with minor poison-related injuries or stings. Your Nidoran might benefit from a little rub if it has any lingering aches. It's also handy if Bulbasaur's poison-typing from other moves left Nidoran with mild toxins."
Leaf nodded. "Thanks," she said, dabbing a tiny bit of the balm on her fingers and massaging it gently onto Nidoran's tiny spines. The Pokémon shivered at first, then settled contentedly.
Once Leaf was done tending to the Pokémon, Naruto set out some simple lunch items. They had a brief meal of sandwiches and trail mix, with fresh water from the stream—filtered through a portable purification device. Lucario helped keep watch, its aura senses extended to detect any sign of hostile Pokémon.
"How many Pokémon do you have in total, Naruto-sensei?" Leaf asked between bites. She'd long been curious about the breadth of his team.
He thought for a moment. "Currently, I carry eight, rotating some in and out of a storage system that I access through the League's transporter. My main battlers are Lucario, a Charizard, a Garchomp I caught in the Sinnoh region, a Zoroark from Unova…there are a few others, but those four are my top-tier in most tournaments."
Leaf's jaw dropped. "Those are some serious powerhouses."
Naruto shrugged modestly. "I've traveled a lot, and each Pokémon was caught during a significant challenge. Garchomp, for instance, was a tough catch—took me days of tracking through a desert canyon."
She gazed at him with admiration. "Did you always want to be a Pokémon trainer with aura abilities?"
He shook his head. "Not always. Where I'm from—well, let's just say it wasn't a typical region. I discovered my aura affinity by accident. Professor Oak recognized it and guided me to some experts. Once I realized how it could help me connect with Pokémon, I decided to travel. The rest is history."
His gaze shifted to Leaf, curious. "What about you? Why did you decide to start this journey now?"
Leaf paused, thinking. "I've always loved Pokémon. Growing up in Pallet Town, you see a lot of trainers pass through. But I didn't just want to go on a casual journey—I wanted to challenge myself, become someone who could handle the toughest battles, maybe even do some good if I encounter dangerous situations. When Professor Oak said you might mentor someone, I jumped at the chance."
Naruto nodded. "Good reason. Just remember: if it ever feels like too much, you can dial back. There's no shame in pacing yourself. But if you choose to keep pushing forward…then you have to give it everything you've got."
Leaf met his gaze, determination shining in her hazel eyes. "I plan to."
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After lunch, they packed up and set off again. The forest only seemed to grow denser as they followed Ryo's directions, skirting around the known Beedrill hive. Occasionally, the canopy opened just enough to allow glimpses of the sky—where hints of late afternoon light filtered down, painting the leaves a soft gold.
They encountered a few wild Pokémon—an Ekans slithering through tall grass, a pair of Kakuna swaying from a low branch—but nothing that posed a real threat or showed interest in battling. Leaf considered trying to catch a Kakuna for a future Beedrill, but decided against it; she had her hands full with Bulbasaur and Nidoran for now.
Naruto pointed out subtle details as they walked: "See that tree trunk with slash marks? That's likely from a Scyther. They pass through here sometimes. If you ever see fresh marks, it might mean a Scyther is close by—very dangerous."
Leaf's eyes scanned the scarred bark. "Wow. A Scyther. That's definitely not a fight I'm ready for."
"You will be one day, if you keep training," he said reassuringly.
They pressed on until the terrain began sloping gently upward. The forest floor gave way to rocky ground, covered in pine needles and small patches of grass. The canopy thinned, letting in more sunlight. Leaf guessed they were finally nearing the far side of Viridian Forest—the side that led to Pewter City.
As if to confirm her guess, Naruto pointed ahead. "We should be close to the exit now. Maybe another hour or so of hiking."
Relief stirred in Leaf's chest. She loved the forest's beauty, but the tension of potential danger was wearing on her. "Great. I can't wait to see Pewter City."
However, their progress was interrupted when they heard voices echoing through the trees. The tones were sharp, almost angry. Naruto tensed, silently gesturing for Leaf to stay behind him. They advanced carefully, stepping around a cluster of wide tree trunks.
In a small clearing, two trainers were in the middle of a heated argument. One was a tall teenage boy with tousled black hair, a battered jean jacket, and spiked wristbands. The other was a girl around the same age, with short pink hair under a baseball cap, wearing a sleeveless hoodie and cargo pants. At their feet lay two Pokémon, clearly exhausted: a Mankey and a Butterfree, both panting heavily as though they'd just finished a brutal fight.
"What's your problem?" the girl snapped, glaring at the boy. "You battled way too rough—I'm not here to maim my Pokémon or yours!"
"Hey," the boy retorted, "if you can't handle a real battle, don't challenge me! A fight is a fight. You get me?"
Naruto and Leaf exchanged worried glances. Leaf stepped forward, clearing her throat softly. "Is everything okay here?"
Both trainers whirled around. The girl immediately recognized Naruto—perhaps from the aura of authority he exuded—and took a half step back. The boy merely sneered.
"Who the hell are you two?" the boy demanded, crossing his arms.
Naruto kept his voice calm. "Just traveling trainers. We heard shouting. Sounded serious."
The girl let out a frustrated sigh. "This jerk thinks it's fine to push his Pokémon to the limit, even if it means risking permanent injury. He nearly let his Mankey get crushed by my Butterfree's Confusion attack, and then he ordered Mankey to use a reckless Karate Chop that could've broken Butterfree's wing. We were just doing a friendly spar!"
The boy rolled his eyes, ignoring the girl's accusations. "Pokémon battles are about winning, not coddling your team. Right?" he said, looking Naruto up and down.
Naruto's expression remained neutral. "Battles should be taken seriously, but a good trainer protects their Pokémon. If you push them too far, you're just proving you don't care about them, not that you're strong."
The boy bristled, fists clenching. "Tch. Like you know anything."
Leaf felt her frustration flare. She stepped up, unable to hold back. "He does know. He's a veteran trainer, and he's absolutely right. If your Pokémon are just tools to you, you're going to regret it one day when they stop listening or get seriously hurt."
The boy glared, turning his attention to Leaf. "Oh, so you're a newbie with big words. You wanna prove it, little girl?"
Naruto placed a hand on Leaf's shoulder, a silent message to keep calm. But Leaf felt a surge of protective anger—she'd seen how the Mankey was trembling from exhaustion. She took a breath, remembering Naruto's teaching: Don't let anger cloud your strategy.
She looked to the girl, who was gently tending Butterfree with a Potion. "Are you two traveling together, or…?"
"He tried to force me into a bet—said if he won, I'd fork over some TMs I got from my older brother. Thankfully, he didn't get them, but at what cost? We ended up hurting our Pokémon more than we should have." Her voice shook with anger and guilt.
The boy snorted. "Not my fault she's soft. If you want to battle, you'd better be prepared to do whatever it takes to win."
Naruto's gaze hardened. "Look, you can battle fiercely without reckless cruelty. There's a line."
The boy sized Naruto up, then smirked. "Look, I don't have time to take lectures from you. I'm heading to Pewter City to face Brock. If you punks think you can handle a real match, you know where to find me." He withdrew a Poké Ball, recalling Mankey. Without waiting for a response, he spun on his heel and disappeared into the thick of the forest.
Leaf was left simmering. The nerve of that guy… She noticed Naruto's aura flicker with a faint, controlled disapproval—but he let the boy leave without further confrontation.
The pink-haired girl exhaled. "Thank you for stepping in, but I guess we avoided an all-out fight. My name's Tamiko. I'm from Cerulean City, heading to Pewter for my first badge."
Leaf approached, offering her a small first-aid kit. "I'm Leaf. Are you and Butterfree going to be okay?"
Tamiko took the kit gratefully. "Yeah, thanks. I've got enough supplies to get by, but Butterfree needs a proper Center soon. I appreciate the concern."
Naruto gently patted Butterfree's head, letting a soft aura wave soothe it momentarily. The insect Pokémon let out a weak, but grateful chirp. "Try to keep traveling short. If you follow the path we came from, the forest exit is only an hour or so away. Then Pewter City's not far," he suggested.
Tamiko nodded, returning Butterfree to its ball. "Thanks for the tip. Maybe I'll see you at the Gym. You two be careful—there are some rough folks out here." She slung her bag over her shoulder and headed off in the direction Naruto indicated.
Leaf stared after her, then turned to Naruto. "That guy said he's challenging Brock with a reckless style. I hope Brock humbles him."
Naruto ran a hand through his blond hair, exhaling. "He might find out that raw aggression isn't enough against an experienced Gym Leader. Come on, let's keep moving."
They resumed their trek. The encounter left Leaf unsettled, her mind lingering on how the boy treated his Pokémon. She squeezed Bulbasaur's ball in her hand, silently vowing never to lose sight of the bond she was building with her team.
At last, they passed under an arch of tall, ancient oaks that signaled the official boundary of Viridian Forest. The trees thinned dramatically, revealing a wide, open sky tinged with the orange and pink hues of late afternoon. Leaf inhaled the fresher air, smiling in relief.
A wooden sign by the roadside read: "You are now leaving Viridian Forest – Pewter City Ahead."
They followed the dirt path, which soon merged into a broader route lined with wildflowers and short grasses. In the distance, Leaf could see the rocky silhouettes of small mountains—a hint that Pewter City, famous for its proximity to Mt. Moon, was just beyond.
Naruto paused, stretching his arms behind his back. "We did good today. Let's find the city's Pokémon Center, get our team fully healed, and then check into an inn. Tomorrow, you can challenge Brock."
Leaf felt her stomach flutter at the mention of the Gym. "Right… tomorrow's the big day. Think we're ready?"
He gave her a sidelong look. "You've handled two tough trainer battles, a fully evolved Beedrill, and caught a Nidoran in the span of a couple days. If you train smart tonight and in the morning, you'll be as prepared as any rookie can be. Besides, I'll be by your side if you need strategic pointers."
She offered a grateful nod. "Thanks, Sensei."
They continued at a steady pace. The sun dipped below the treeline, casting long shadows across the path. As the last light of day waned, the lights of Pewter City gradually appeared in the distance. Unlike the more modern cities Leaf had seen in magazines, Pewter City's skyline was dominated by stone buildings and statues dedicated to Rock-type Pokémon. A grand sculpture of an Onix coiled near the city's entrance, a testament to Brock's legacy.
Leaf couldn't help but gawk as they approached. "Wow… it's bigger than I thought, yet it has a kind of… rugged charm."
Naruto smiled softly. "Pewter is known for its stone craftsmanship and museum. Some say the best building stones in Kanto come from the nearby quarries."
They passed under an archway marking the city's boundary. Lanterns lined the streets, illuminating the stone-paved roads. Shops advertised various supplies—Poké Balls, Potions, technical machines. Stone carvings of Geodude, Onix, and even Rhyhorn decorated the facades of many buildings. The city felt calm, though an undercurrent of excitement lingered in the air—likely due to the constant stream of trainers coming for the Gym challenge.
The Pokémon Center stood on a raised platform of polished gray stone, its iconic red roof glowing under the street lamps. Leaf and Naruto entered through sliding glass doors. The interior was brightly lit and bustling with trainers—some comparing notes on the local Gym, others chatting about the upcoming Indigo League competition. Nurse Joy, clad in her familiar white apron and cap, greeted them warmly from behind the reception counter.
"Welcome to the Pewter City Pokémon Center!" she said with a smile. "How can I help you?"
Leaf approached, placing Bulbasaur and Nidoran's Poké Balls on the counter. "My Pokémon have had a tough day. Could you please heal them, Nurse Joy?"
"Of course," Nurse Joy replied, her voice brimming with kindness. "We'll have them right as rain in a short while."
Naruto also placed a couple of his Poké Balls—though he kept Lucario's ball clipped to his belt. "A quick check-up for mine, too. Thank you."
They waited on a nearby bench, watching as Joy's assistants ushered the Poké Balls into a specialized healing machine. After a few minutes, the whirring device finished its cycle, and the assistants returned with a small tray.
"All done!" Nurse Joy announced. "Your Pokémon are healthy and fighting fit."
Leaf took back her Poké Balls, relief washing over her. "Thank you so much."
Turning to Naruto, she quietly asked, "Should we get a room here or find an inn?"
Pokémon Centers usually offered basic accommodations to traveling trainers. Naruto considered. "Let's see if they have any open rooms. If it's too crowded, we might go to a local inn."
As it turned out, the Pokémon Center had only one room left—likely due to the influx of trainers aiming for the Pewter Gym. Naruto insisted Leaf take it. "You need rest more than I do. I can find a place nearby."
Leaf hesitated. "Are you sure? I don't mind splitting the room or sleeping in a corner if that's allowed—"
Naruto waved a hand dismissively. "It's fine. Besides, I've got some old friends in Pewter who might put me up for the night. Let me just confirm. Meanwhile, you take the room, rest, and maybe do a bit of reading on rock-type matchups."
He left her with a gentle pat on the shoulder, heading outside to make a quick call on his Pokégear. Leaf, feeling a mix of gratitude and guilt, accepted the room key from a smiling Chansey—a Pokémon that often assisted Nurse Joy.
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The small but cozy Pokémon Center room was functional: a single bed with crisp white sheets, a desk with a reading lamp, and a built-in charging station for electronic devices. A wide window overlooked Pewter City's main street. Leaf set her backpack down and exhaled tiredly.
She freshened up in the adjacent washroom, changing into comfortable shorts and a loose T-shirt. Then she released Bulbasaur and Nidoran onto the floor, smiling at them.
"Hey, you two," she said softly, crouching down. "It's our first night in a real city on this journey."
Bulbasaur happily stretched, sniffing around for a comfortable spot. Nidoran poked its nose at the bed, seeming curious. Leaf carefully picked Nidoran up—earning a startled squeak—and placed it on the bed. Bulbasaur hopped up next, and the two Pokémon nestled close together at the foot of the mattress.
Leaf sat at the desk, opening a small guidebook Naruto had given her earlier in the day. It detailed rock-type advantages and weaknesses, potential strategies, and even some notes from previous challengers who'd fought Brock. She read aloud quietly:
"Rock-type Pokémon often rely on high defense and powerful physical moves like Rock Throw, Rock Tomb, or even Stone Edge at higher levels. Their weaknesses include water, grass, ground, steel, and fighting. However, their defense can offset the typical damage, especially from physical grass moves…."
She paused, glancing at Bulbasaur. "That means we can't just rely on Tackle or Vine Whip to break through. We need to be smart. And, Nidoran, you can help with your own moves—though you might not have many fighting moves yet."
Nidoran flicked its ears, as if listening. Bulbasaur blinked at Leaf, then closed its eyes, appearing to doze.
Leaf turned to a new page:
"Brock's advanced team often includes a Golem, a Rhyhorn or Rhydon, and an Onix. Expect high-level challenges. Strategy must account for each Pokémon's secondary abilities. Rhyhorn and Rhydon can use Horn Attack or even Horn Drill if the battle escalates. Golem can roll out or explode if cornered. Onix can trap opponents with Bind and chip away their stamina…."
Leaf swallowed hard, heart pounding at the prospect. A Golem? Rhydon? That's way beyond what a rookie trainer normally faces. But Naruto had made it clear: master difficulty meant no easy route.
She studied for another half hour, scribbling notes on a small notepad:
Bulbasaur: Focus on special moves if possible (e.g., Vine Whip or eventually Razor Leaf). Avoid direct physical collisions with Rock-types.
Nidoran: Potential moves: Peck (for certain grass/bug types, not helpful vs. rock), Poison Sting, Double Kick (soon?), Focus on evasion to avoid big hits.
Possible strategy: Use Bulbasaur's vines to keep distance, then let Nidoran land quick hits?
Eventually, fatigue set in. She yawned, saving her notes and returning both Pokémon to their Poké Balls so they could rest in the healing stasis. She set the balls carefully on the nightstand, then crawled under the covers.
"Tomorrow's a big day," she murmured to herself, eyes drifting shut. I won't let Naruto-sensei down. Or Bulbasaur. Or Nidoran. We'll show Brock—and that cruel trainer—what real strength looks like.
Sleep came swiftly, carrying her into dreams of towering Onix and swirling auras.
Leaf awoke at dawn, the thin rays of sunlight piercing the window's drawn curtains. She rubbed her eyes, momentarily confused by the unfamiliar surroundings, then remembered she was in the Pewter City Pokémon Center. Excitement and nerves fluttered in her stomach at the realization: It's Gym day.
She dressed in her usual outfit—green hoodie, white T-shirt, black cycling shorts, lime-green sneakers—then hurried downstairs to the lobby. The Pokémon Center had a small cafeteria section where trainers ate free basic breakfasts. Leaf grabbed some cereal, fruit, and a cup of tea, scanning the crowd for Naruto.
She spotted him seated in a corner booth, a half-eaten plate of scrambled eggs and toast before him. He nodded for her to join him. Lucario was at his side, finishing a bowl of special Pokémon chow.
"How'd you sleep?" Naruto asked.
"Pretty well, actually. And I did some studying last night," Leaf replied, settling into the seat. "I read about Brock's possible lineups on master difficulty. I'm…definitely nervous."
Naruto chuckled softly. "Nerves are natural. Just channel that energy into focus. We'll do a quick training session before the battle. Make sure Bulbasaur and Nidoran are warmed up."
Leaf nodded eagerly. "Sounds good. Where should we train?"
He gestured vaguely outside. "There's a training field just behind the Gym, open to public practice before challenges. We can do some short drills there."
She finished her breakfast quickly, anxious to get started.
A short walk brought them to the imposing Pewter Gym—a large stone structure with a façade resembling a carved cliff face. The front doors bore an engraved plaque:
Pewter City Gym – Leader: Brock, the Rock-Solid Trainer
Behind the gym stretched a wide field of compacted dirt and scattered boulders, designed for practice. A few trainers and their Pokémon were already there—some novices running practice moves, others older challengers who looked to be testing strategies.
Leaf released Bulbasaur and Nidoran, who both seemed alert and ready. Naruto walked them through a series of warm-up exercises:
Agility Drills: Leaf had Bulbasaur practice quick dashes between cones, focusing on controlling momentum. Nidoran hopped side to side over small obstacles to sharpen its agility.
Defensive Maneuvers: Naruto placed small foam targets on the ends of a staff. He swung them at Bulbasaur and Nidoran at moderate speed, teaching them to dodge or deflect lightly. "Brock's Rock-types often have large physical attacks," he explained. "You won't be able to brute force them easily."
Move Coordination: Leaf encouraged Bulbasaur to use Vine Whip in a controlled manner—aiming for specific points on a practice dummy. Nidoran practiced Poison Sting on the same target, learning to concentrate the thin, purple darts.
Naruto nodded in approval. "You're building synergy. You might need to switch between Pokémon mid-battle if Brock allows it. Some Gym Leaders on master mode permit multiple Pokémon but set strict rules—like, once you switch out, that Pokémon can't re-enter. We'll confirm the details once we speak to him."
Leaf took a deep breath, heart hammering. "I really hope we're not in over our heads. But I want to try."
He placed a comforting hand on her shoulder. "Win or lose, it's all experience. Just do your best."
Inside the Pewter Gym, the temperature was noticeably cooler. The large, cavernous main arena had rock walls embedded with geodes that shimmered under overhead lights. The floor was covered in gravel and boulders, mimicking a real rocky battlefield. Leaf felt like she'd stepped into a quarry. Stands on either side allowed a small audience to watch. A handful of trainers stood along the perimeter, likely having just finished or waiting for battles.
At the far end of the arena stood Brock himself. He was a tall, tan-skinned young man with spiky brown hair, wearing an orange vest over a black shirt, brown pants, and sturdy boots. His eyes seemed perpetually closed—an odd trait Leaf remembered hearing about. He was talking to an aide, presumably finishing up notes on a previous match.
When he noticed Leaf and Naruto, he stepped forward, crossing his arms in a friendly but authoritative stance. "Welcome to the Pewter Gym. I'm Brock. Are you here for a challenge?"
Leaf felt her nerves spike. She mustered her courage. "Yes, sir. I'm Leaf from Pallet Town. I'd like to challenge you on master difficulty."
Brock's brow lifted slightly at the mention of "master difficulty." He turned his gaze to Naruto, recognizing him almost immediately. "Naruto Uzumaki. Been a while since you've been here. Are you training this young woman?"
Naruto nodded. "That's right. She's aiming high, so we'd like the advanced challenge."
Brock studied Leaf appraisingly. "Master difficulty is no joke. I have a range of teams, from basic for rookie trainers to high-level rock-type powerhouses. Are you sure you want to proceed?"
Leaf's throat felt dry, but she managed a firm nod. "Absolutely."
The Gym Leader turned, gesturing across the rocky arena. "Very well. The advanced challenge is typically a three-on-three, but if you only have two Pokémon, we can adjust. I'll use three, and you can use two. You're allowed one substitution. Once you recall a Pokémon, it can't come back out. Standard rules: no outside healing items used mid-battle. Understood?"
Leaf nodded again. "Understood."
Brock glanced at Naruto. "She's your student, so you can offer advice from the sideline, but please respect official battle decorum. Don't direct her every move—this is her trial."
Naruto gave a wry smile. "Of course."
Brock beckoned Leaf to one side of the arena. He moved to the opposite side, which was elevated slightly, giving him a vantage point. An attendant stepped in as referee, wearing a black-and-white-striped shirt.
"Challenger Leaf from Pallet Town, with two Pokémon," the referee announced. "Gym Leader Brock with three Pokémon. The battle will be decided when either side's Pokémon are all unable to continue. The challenger is permitted one substitution, the leader two, given it's a 2v3 scenario. No external items. Trainers, are you ready?"
Leaf's heart thundered in her chest. "I'm ready," she forced out, voice trembling slightly.
Brock nodded once, pressing a button on a Poké Ball. "Then let's go."
Brock enlarged his first Poké Ball, tossing it high. It burst open, revealing a Geodude with a rugged, rocky exterior and two strong arms. It floated a few inches off the ground, a determined scowl on its face.
Leaf took a calming breath and chose Bulbasaur's ball. Bulbasaur is better equipped for dealing super-effective damage.
"Bulbasaur, I choose you!"
Her Grass-type materialized on the gravel, eyes locking onto Geodude.
The referee raised an arm. "Let the first round begin!"
Brock was quick to act. "Geodude, Defense Curl!"
Geodude tucked its arms in, shining briefly as its rocky shell hardened. Leaf knew that would boost its defense, making physical moves less effective. Vine Whip is physical.
She called out, "Bulbasaur, Razor Leaf!"
Normally, a low-level Bulbasaur wouldn't have Razor Leaf so early, but Leaf had spent extra hours drilling for it, hoping Bulbasaur might manifest the move. Bulbasaur tried to conjure sharp leaves, but only a few formed, swirling in an unsteady pattern. They flew toward Geodude and struck its stony exterior. Geodude grunted, but it was far from phased.
Brock seized the opening. "Geodude, Rollout!"
Geodude tucked into a ball, spinning rapidly. It shot forward across the arena, churning up gravel in its wake. Leaf cried out, "Dodge left, Bulbasaur! Then Vine Whip!"
Bulbasaur managed a small sidestep, but Geodude's momentum still clipped it, sending it skidding. Grimacing, Bulbasaur lashed out with its vines as Geodude passed. The strike smacked Geodude's side, forcing it out of its rolling trajectory.
Brock's voice rang out firmly. "Keep the pressure, Geodude—another Rollout!"
Geodude spun again. Leaf realized this time it would be stronger—Rollout's power increased with each successful hit.
If Bulbasaur takes another direct hit, it might be in trouble, she thought. "Bulbasaur, use Growl to lower its attack, then jump clear!"
Bulbasaur let out a resonant Growl, temporarily weakening Geodude's offense. As Geodude spun closer, Bulbasaur jumped as best it could, the vines pushing it off the ground for extra height. The living boulder rolled underneath, missing by mere inches.
Leaf saw a chance. "Now—Vine Whip from above!"
Still airborne, Bulbasaur flicked its vines downward, striking Geodude's exposed top side. Geodude yelped, flipping over and crashing into a boulder. Dust and gravel flew.
Brock raised an eyebrow. "Impressive. Geodude, use Rock Throw!"
Geodude hefted a chunk of rock and hurled it at Bulbasaur, who landed clumsily. "Bulbasaur, watch out!" Leaf warned. Bulbasaur attempted to dodge, but the rock clipped its hind leg, drawing a pained cry.
Leaf felt her pulse spike. We're not going to last long at this rate. She called out, "Try Razor Leaf again—full power!"
Bulbasaur narrowed its eyes. A swirl of leaves formed around the bulb on its back—this time more stable than before. They streaked forward, slicing through the air with a whoosh. Geodude braced itself, arms up, but the leaves cut deep into its rocky hide, causing visible cracks.
"Geo…dude…" it growled, glaring defiantly.
Brock folded his arms. "Not bad. Geodude, one more Rollout!"
Geodude began spinning once again, shooting toward Bulbasaur like a high-speed cannonball. Leaf realized Bulbasaur couldn't dodge easily on its injured leg. We need to end this now.
"Bulbasaur, Vine Whip—catch it head-on and fling it aside!"
Bulbasaur steadied itself, vines poised. As Geodude barreled in, the Grass-type lashed out, hooking onto Geodude's rocky surface. The impact still jarred Bulbasaur, pushing it back, but with a strained cry, Bulbasaur used the momentum to fling Geodude off-course.
Geodude smashed into the gym floor with a thunderous crash, cracks splintering the gravel. For a moment, Geodude attempted to float back up, arms trembling. Then it collapsed, eyes swirling.
The referee lifted an arm. "Geodude is unable to battle! Bulbasaur wins the first round!"
Leaf exhaled, relief flooding her. She glanced at Bulbasaur, who stood panting. She could see bruises on its leg from the Rock Throw. Bulbasaur is still standing…
Brock recalled Geodude. "You've trained that Bulbasaur well. It's got a strong sense of timing with those Vine Whips and a budding Razor Leaf. But let's see how you handle this."
He pulled out a second Poké Ball, tossing it. "Go, Rhyhorn!"
A massive, gray rock-rhino Pokémon emerged, scraping the ground with its horn. It let out a rumbling roar that echoed off the gym walls, exuding raw power.
Leaf's stomach clenched. Rhyhorn is big trouble for a beat-up Bulbasaur. She recalled the earlier note: "Rhyhorn might have Horn Attack, Stomp, maybe even Rock Blast."
She hesitated. Do I switch out now, or let Bulbasaur try to chip away more? But Bulbasaur looked exhausted.
"Bulbasaur, return!" she called, recalling her Grass-type. "Nidoran, I choose you!"
She threw out her Nidoran's ball, and her second Pokémon materialized on the gravel. The small poison-type stared up at Rhyhorn, ears twitching nervously.
Brock gave a slight nod of approval. "So you're using a Nidoran. Interesting choice. Let's see what it can do. Rhyhorn, Horn Attack!"
Rhyhorn pawed the ground, then charged forward, massive horn aimed straight at Nidoran.
"Nidoran, dodge and Poison Sting!" Leaf commanded.
Nidoran dove to the side, narrowly missing the horn's lethal point, and fired a flurry of purple needles at Rhyhorn. Many bounced harmlessly off its rocky hide; a few embedded in softer areas, causing Rhyhorn to grunt in mild pain.
Brock quickly countered. "Use Stomp!"
Rhyhorn reared up on its hind legs and slammed its front feet down, sending shockwaves through the ground. Nidoran stumbled, losing its balance. Leaf cried out, "Hang in there, Nidoran!"
Rhyhorn advanced, horn glinting dangerously. We need a better strategy, Leaf thought. Physical poison moves might not cut it against that thick hide. She recalled that Nidoran eventually learns Double Kick, which is fighting-type and super-effective on rock. Could it possibly know it by now?
She decided to test the waters. "Nidoran, try Double Kick!"
Nidoran's eyes flashed with sudden resolve, as though a latent memory of the move sparked. It lunged at Rhyhorn, both hind legs glowing faintly. With a fierce cry, Nidoran kicked once—Rhyhorn flinched—and then kicked again, hitting the side of Rhyhorn's rocky torso.
"Rhy-horn!" the rock-type snarled, stumbling a few steps. Brock raised an eyebrow. "So it knows Double Kick, does it? All right. Rhyhorn, Bulldoze!"
Rhyhorn's feet glowed with ground-type energy, and it slammed them into the arena. The ground rippled in a wave, rushing toward Nidoran. Leaf's eyes widened. "Nidoran, jump!"
Nidoran tried to leap, but the shockwave caught its hind legs, tossing it into the air. The small poison-type flipped end over end before crashing hard onto the gravel. Dust billowed up.
Leaf's heart clenched. "Nidoran!"
Her Pokémon struggled to its feet, breathing heavily. It was battered, but not yet out.
Brock pressed his advantage. "Rock Blast!"
Rhyhorn opened its mouth, launching chunks of rock at high speed. Leaf made a snap decision: "Nidoran, Double Kick the rocks out of the air!"
Gritting its teeth, Nidoran mustered strength, lashing out with its glowing hind legs to break apart the flying stones. It managed to shatter one, then two, but the third hit home, smashing into Nidoran's side.
Leaf bit her lip so hard she tasted blood. We can't keep taking hits like that. "Okay, time for a more direct approach. Nidoran, Double Kick—charge in!"
Nidoran sprinted forward, ignoring the pain. Rhyhorn attempted another Stomp, but Nidoran slipped under the massive foot and landed a flurry of quick kicks against Rhyhorn's front legs. The type advantage of fighting moves did extra damage. Rhyhorn bellowed in discomfort, taking several steps back.
"Keep it up, Nidoran!" Leaf yelled, heart hammering in her chest. Her Pokémon unleashed another Double Kick to Rhyhorn's side. Cracks formed along the stony armor.
Brock's expression grew serious. "Rhyhorn, Stomp, full force!"
Rhyhorn roared and brought its forelegs down. This time, the blow connected squarely with Nidoran, pinning it to the ground. Leaf felt her stomach plummet as she watched Nidoran squeal in pain.
"Nidoran, no!" she cried, desperation in her voice.
Rhyhorn pressed more weight, but then it let out a strained growl, stumbling back. The poison barbs on Nidoran's body had apparently pricked Rhyhorn's leg, causing Rhyhorn to recoil.
Seizing the moment, Leaf shouted, "Double Kick, one more time!"
With a valiant effort, Nidoran leapt up, delivering a pair of vicious kicks to Rhyhorn's underbelly. Rhyhorn staggered, eyes rolling back. Finally, the big rock-rhino toppled sideways with a resounding crash.
Silence filled the gym. Then the referee raised a hand: "Rhyhorn is unable to battle! Nidoran wins!"
Leaf sank to her knees, exhaling in relief. Nidoran collapsed onto the gravel, chest heaving. She wanted to rush in and cradle her Pokémon, but she remembered the rules—battle wasn't officially over until the Gym Leader was out of usable Pokémon, or she was.
Brock recalled Rhyhorn. A small smile tugged at the corner of his mouth. "That was impressive. Nidoran's fighting-type move was the deciding factor. Most rookies don't see that much strategy so early."
He reached for his final Poké Ball. "However, you've used your one substitution. Bulbasaur is injured, and your Nidoran is nearly spent. Let's see if you can handle my ace. Go—Onix!"
A massive, serpentine rock snake materialized, towering above them with segmented boulders for a body. It let out a roar that shook the stadium lights. Leaf's stomach twisted—she'd anticipated an Onix, but seeing it loom over them was another matter entirely.
"Nidoran, return!" she called. The small poison-type vanished into its ball in a flash of red light. "You did amazing, buddy. Rest now."
All she had left was Bulbasaur. She summoned her Grass-type, who appeared with a grimace, still showing signs of fatigue. Leaf clenched her fists. One more obstacle. We have to find a way.
Brock wasted no time. "Onix, Bind!"
Onix lunged forward with terrifying speed for such a large Pokémon. Its rocky segments coiled around Bulbasaur, squeezing tight. Bulbasaur cried out in pain, vines flailing helplessly.
Leaf's eyes widened. "Bulbasaur, Vine Whip those coils—try to pry yourself free!"
Bulbasaur's vines whipped frantically at Onix's stony body, leaving faint scratches. Onix only squeezed harder, causing Bulbasaur to gasp. Leaf felt panic surge. We need to break that hold!
Naruto's voice called from the sidelines, firm but measured: "Focus on a vulnerable segment. Don't just flail."
Leaf refocused. "Bulbasaur, concentrate your Vine Whip on the same rock segment, as hard as you can!"
Bulbasaur's vines hammered a specific link in Onix's body, chipping away at the rock. Onix roared, loosening its grip slightly. That was enough for Bulbasaur to wriggle free, dropping to the ground.
"Good job!" Leaf exclaimed.
But Brock had another command ready: "Onix, Rock Tomb!"
Chunks of stone erupted around Onix, forming jagged pillars that crashed toward Bulbasaur in a circular formation. Leaf called, "Bulbasaur, dodge and Razor Leaf!"
Bulbasaur jumped aside, but its injured leg slowed it. One of the pillars slammed down near its front paws, grazing its side. Bulbasaur stumbled, letting out a sharp cry. Still, it mustered the energy to fire off the swirling leaves. The leaves sliced at Onix's hide, but the giant rock snake barely flinched.
Brock's stern voice echoed. "Onix, finish this—Sandstorm!"
Onix spun its massive body, whipping up swirling clouds of sand and rocky debris. The arena vanished in a haze. Leaf shielded her eyes, calling out blindly, "Bulbasaur, keep your distance! Try another Razor Leaf!"
The swirling sand battered Bulbasaur, cutting visibility. Leaf could hardly see her Pokémon. She heard Bulbasaur's strained cry as the sand pelted it. In desperation, she shouted, "Bulbasaur, use Leech Seed!"
Bulbasaur's bulb glowed, and a small seed shot forth. Through the swirling sand, Leaf couldn't see if it found its mark. Brock's commanding tone cut through the din, "Onix, Bind again!"
In the haze, Leaf saw the faint silhouette of Onix's massive coils lunging toward Bulbasaur. There was a flash of green vines, and then a yelp as Onix presumably wrapped Bulbasaur once more.
Leaf's throat tightened. This might be it. She clenched her fists, forcing composure. "Bulbasaur, Vine Whip from inside the coil—hit Onix's face if you can!"
A roar echoed, and the sandstorm began to subside. As the dust settled, Leaf could see Bulbasaur pinned beneath Onix's segments, valiantly striking at Onix's face. The rock snake growled, loosening only slightly.
A flicker of green energy appeared around Onix's midsection: the Leech Seed had latched on, sprouting vines that drained Onix's strength bit by bit. Bulbasaur glowed faintly with each pulse, regaining a sliver of energy.
"It's working," Leaf whispered. "Bulbasaur, keep attacking! Razor Leaf at point-blank!"
Bulbasaur roared, leaves materializing around its bulb once again. At such close range, Onix couldn't fully dodge. The leaves slashed into its rocky skin, forming cracks along its segments. Onix howled in pain. Leech Seed continued siphoning energy, each pulse weakening Onix more.
Brock didn't hesitate. "Onix, slam Bulbasaur down—now!"
The giant Pokémon lifted its coils, then smashed Bulbasaur into the gravel. The impact shook the gym. Leaf gasped, heart seizing up. Bulbasaur went limp for a moment.
Naruto's voice rang out, "Leaf—don't give up yet!"
She fought back tears. One final command… "Bulbasaur… Razor Leaf!"
Bulbasaur, battered and near fainting, mustered every ounce of strength. Another burst of leaves shot upward, cutting across Onix's face and neck segments. Onix thrashed, releasing Bulbasaur from its grip. The Leech Seed glowed bright, delivering a final wave of draining energy. Onix shuddered, then collapsed onto the floor with a thunderous crash, dust billowing in all directions.
For a second, no one moved. Then the referee's voice cut through the silence:
"Onix is unable to battle. Brock's team is defeated. The winner is the challenger, Leaf!"
Leaf stood rooted to the spot, disbelief warring with joy. Her battered Bulbasaur lay unmoving on the gravel. She rushed forward and cradled her Pokémon, tears sliding down her cheeks. "Bulbasaur, you did it…are you okay?"
Bulbasaur let out a weak croak, eyes half-lidded but alive. Leaf hugged it gently, mindful of its injuries.
Brock approached, recalling his unconscious Onix. He watched Leaf for a moment, then smiled. "You fought with resourcefulness and heart. You've earned this."
He held out a small, gray badge shaped like a boulder. "The Boulder Badge is yours."
Leaf accepted it with trembling hands, feeling a mixture of pride, relief, and exhaustion. "Thank you. Thank you so much."
Naruto approached, placing a hand on her shoulder. He didn't say anything at first, just gave her a nod that spoke volumes of his approval. Finally, he murmured, "Well done, Leaf. Your determination carried you through."
Brock extended a handshake. "I look forward to seeing how far you'll go, especially under Naruto's guidance. Take good care of your Bulbasaur. Nurse Joy's going to have some work to do."
Leaf shook his hand, then looked to Naruto. "We should get Bulbasaur and Nidoran to the Pokémon Center, right away."
Naruto nodded. "Absolutely. Let's go."
They left the Pewter Gym with Leaf supporting Bulbasaur in her arms, while Nidoran's Poké Ball sat clipped safely to her belt. The early afternoon sun felt warm, comforting after the tense atmosphere of the match. Leaf's eyes drifted to the Boulder Badge in her hand—a tangible symbol of her first major victory.
Naruto led her back to the Pokémon Center, where Nurse Joy took Bulbasaur and Nidoran for immediate care. Leaf paced the lobby, replaying the match in her mind, from the fear of Bind to the final blow of Razor Leaf. Her heart still pounded with remnants of adrenaline.
Naruto stood by, arms folded. He occasionally murmured a few encouraging words: "Great strategy," or "Smart use of Leech Seed," to which Leaf offered a grateful but shaky smile.
Half an hour later, Nurse Joy emerged from the back room, smiling gently. "They're going to be fine. Both Bulbasaur and Nidoran were exhausted but not severely injured. That last slam was intense, but your Bulbasaur is tougher than it looks."
Leaf let out the breath she'd been holding. "Can I see them?"
"Of course," Nurse Joy said, leading Leaf to a recovery room where Bulbasaur lay on a cushioned mat, intravenous tubes hooked up to a machine delivering healing fluids. Nidoran rested in a small enclosure beside it, looking tired but stable.
Leaf knelt by Bulbasaur, gently rubbing its forehead. "Hey, buddy. You were incredible."
Bulbasaur opened its eyes, letting out a soft "Bulba…" that sounded content. Nidoran gave a tiny squeak, as if congratulating its teammate.
Naruto watched from the doorway, arms crossed over his chest. "I think they'll need a day or two of rest before we move on. But you've accomplished the first big step, Leaf. How does it feel?"
She wiped away a stray tear, smiling broadly. "It feels amazing. Hard, but amazing. I'm… I'm so happy they're okay."
Nurse Joy nodded. "We'll keep them for observation overnight. You can stay in your room here if you like. I suggest letting them get uninterrupted rest."
Leaf thanked Nurse Joy, reluctance evident in her eyes as she left Bulbasaur and Nidoran to heal. She returned to the lobby with Naruto, who guided her to a quiet corner where they could talk.
"So," he began, his tone calm, "that was your first major challenge on master difficulty. What are your main takeaways?"
Leaf pursed her lips. "I need to refine our moves. Razor Leaf was shaky at times, and Bulbasaur's physical moves, like Vine Whip, might become less useful if I run into a physically strong Pokémon with high defense. Also, Nidoran's Double Kick saved us, but it's still underdeveloped. One or two more hits could have knocked Nidoran out before it landed that finishing blow on Rhyhorn."
Naruto nodded. "Good analysis. We'll work on building each Pokémon's strongest moves and also teach them strategic maneuvers for future battles. You might want to give Bulbasaur a better special Grass-type move as soon as possible—like Energy Ball or Magical Leaf if you can get a TM. As for Nidoran, focusing on fighting-type coverage will be invaluable. Of course, that's all in due time."
Leaf looked at him, remembering the savage approach of the rude boy they met in Viridian Forest. "Naruto-sensei, do you think someone like that guy who was cruel to his Mankey could ever beat Brock?"
Naruto sighed. "Possibly, if his Pokémon are strong enough and if Brock underestimates him. But it wouldn't be a victory that fosters long-term success. Pokémon who are treated as disposable tools rarely become truly loyal."
She nodded, her face set with determination. "We did it our way, with trust and synergy. That feels a hundred times better."
He smiled softly. "That's the way it should be. Now, you've got your Boulder Badge, which means you're officially recognized by the Pokémon League as having completed one Gym. The next obvious step is Cerulean City for the Cascade Badge. But we can also consider taking side routes—like heading toward Mt. Moon to catch different Pokémon or do extra training."
Leaf tapped a finger on her chin. "Going to Cerulean means we'll likely face Misty next. She specializes in Water-types, right? Bulbasaur might have an advantage there, especially if it evolves into Ivysaur by then."
Naruto nodded in agreement. "Exactly. We can do some level grinding and training to make sure your team is prepared."
Leaf noticed the time: mid-afternoon. Her stomach growled softly, and she realized she hadn't eaten lunch. Naruto smirked. "Hungry?"
"After that match, definitely," she admitted with a shy laugh.
He stood, motioning for her to follow. "There's a café nearby. Let's grab a bite. Then we'll plan our next move."
They left the Pokémon Center, stepping onto the stone-paved streets of Pewter City. Tourists and trainers bustled about, some admiring the massive stone Onix statue near the city's entrance, others chatting animatedly about their own battles.
Leaf looked at her new Boulder Badge tucked safely in her pocket. Pride swelled in her chest, but also a budding curiosity: What amazing adventures— and dangers—await beyond Pewter City?
She didn't know the full extent of Kanto's challenges, but she had faith that, with Naruto's mentorship and her own determination, she'd be ready for whatever came next. Clutching her hoodie's edges to her sides, she breathed in the crisp city air, the faint smell of rock dust mingling with the aroma of roasting peanuts from a nearby street vendor.
Yes, the road would be long and grueling. But she wouldn't trade this path for anything.