1.Ash's Story (Part 1: Kanto)

Chapter 5

"We're finally here in Pewter City," Serena exclaims, her voice brimming with excitement as we step foot into the vibrant town. I can't help but smile in response. "Yeah, this is where we have our first gym battle," I confirm, my own anticipation rising with each passing moment.

Yellow, ever the curious one, interjects, "Um... Ash, didn't Viridian City have a gym? Why didn't you challenge that one?" I pause for a moment, recalling our decision. "The Viridian Gym leader isn't in the gym, which is actually very strange. But we decide to do that one last," I explain, hoping to satisfy her curiosity.

"But before we go to the gym, how about we check out the Pewter Museum of Science?" Insey suggests, her eyes alight with curiosity. "Sounds good," Misty agrees, her adventurous spirit always eager for new experiences. With unanimous approval, we make our way towards the museum, eager to explore its wonders.

Entering the museum, we're greeted by an array of fascinating exhibits, each one a testament to the wonders of science. Among them, the fossils hold a particular allure. I'm reminded of the Fossil restoration machine here in Pewter City, but regretfully realize I don't have any fossils with me, as they're safely stored in my Mt. Moon House.

As we finish perusing the exhibits, our attention is drawn to a mysterious figure seated before us, surrounded by an assortment of rock merchandise. Intrigued, we exchange curious glances, wondering what secrets this enigmatic stranger might hold.

"Hey, what are you doing here?" Yellow's voice cuts through the air, breaking the silence as we confront the mysterious figure.

The man looks up, revealing a weathered face with a mischievous glint in his eyes. "The name's Flint. These rocks here are Pewter City souvenirs. Do you want to buy some?" he offers, gesturing to the array of merchandise before him.

"No thanks. We are going to challenge the Pewter City Gym," I reply firmly, my determination unwavering.

Flint chuckles softly, his laughter echoing in the stillness of the museum. "Don't tell me you're planning on challenging Brock, the Pewter City Gym Leader," he remarks incredulously, amusement evident in his tone. "You think you can beat him?"

"Who knows," I retort, a confident smile playing on my lips. "My parents did train us a lot about strategies. We shall see." With that, we turn away from the old man, leaving him to his rocks as we embark on our journey to face the challenge that awaits us at the Pewter City Gym.

Once we arrive at the Pewter City Gym, we're greeted by the sight of a magnificent rock garden, the very terrain reflecting the specialty of the Gym Leader we're about to face.

A man approaches us with a friendly smile, his enthusiasm palpable. "Hiya! Do you want to dream big? Do you dare to dream of becoming the Pokémon champ? I'm no Trainer, but I can advise you on how to win. Let me take you to the top!"

"That will be nice," I reply, grateful for any insight that could aid us in our quest.

"The Gym Leader here is Brock, and he specializes in Rock Type Pokémon," the man continues, his voice carrying a note of wisdom. "I suggest you have Water or Grass Type Pokémon on your team if you want to beat him."

"That sure is useful," Serena remarks, her eyes narrowing in thought. "But you don't have any of them, right?"

"I don't need to use Water or Grass Pokémon," I declare confidently, a spark of determination igniting within me. "And you'll see why." With those words hanging in the air, we steel ourselves for the challenge ahead, ready to prove our mettle against Pewter City's formidable Gym Leader.

On our way to face Brock, we encounter the first Gym trainer, a Camper named Amara. "This is the Pewter City Gym. Trainers here are a bit different from those you've faced so far," she explains, a hint of challenge in her voice.