Chapter 15: Pewter gym[ First gym]

I had been deeply engrossed in discussions with Rotomdex, bouncing off ideas and making adjustments to my Pokémon breeding plan. The AI's processing capabilities proved invaluable in refining my strategies for enhancing the potential of my team.

As we delved into the intricacies of each Pokémon's strengths and weaknesses, I noticed a particular graph from the latest data that caught my attention – Weedle's significant increase in String Shot production.

The discovery of Weedle's increased String Shot production set off a wave of excitement and urgency within me. It was a clear indication that Weedle was on the verge of evolving, and I needed to act swiftly to maximize its potential.

Giovanni chuckled and asserted, "You are wrong, Jason." Jason blinked in surprise as Giovanni continued, "This Elekid is no less than that Electric gym in Sinnoh. Even this Weedle is walking the correct path. However, you should remember that its true potential unlocks at the Beedrill stage, while the first stages are stages of accumulation."

It was time to put Giovanni's advice into action. I recalled Weedle into its Pokéball and summoned Electabuzz and the rest of the team, "Ok team, it is time. Clear the path to the Beedrill nests."

"Thunder Punch"

"Thunder"

"Wing attack."

The journey back to the Beedril nest was filled with battles, as we encountered lone but aggressive Pokémon along the way. Each back-to-back skirmish tested the resilience and strength of my team, and it became evident that the impending evolution of Weedle was crucial for us to care about exhaustion.

Even the spoiled princess like Evee is distracting the attacking Arbok with a Charm.

As we pressed forward, the urgency in my actions reflected the importance of the moment. As we approached the territory of the Beedrill clan.

The urgency in my team's approach also stirred the interest of the Patrolling Beedrills, prompting them to take flight and assist in us reaching them.

Attacks of Pin Missiles filled the sky as a few Beedrill moved forward to drive the rest of the aggressive Pokemon back.

Upon releasing Weedle, the urgency peaked. I shouted to the assembled Pokémon, emphasizing the significance of the moment – "It is time."

However, you should remember that its true potential unlocks at the Beedrill stage, while the first stages are stages of accumulation.

It is not simple to increase the accumulation, Afterall there are certain limits to each Pokemon species. Evolution is a chance that I was preparing for I am grateful to Giovanni for this, because of the map given by him. This was the territory marked by him with a red circle, not the locations of rare Pokémon but this Beedrill clearing-his true gift.

Evolution is a delicate procedure that is not easy to intervene in, so I had to decrease the external factors as much as possible. From research reports of Oak on Wild Pokemon assistance and Giovanni's gift, the following procedure started.

The Beedrills took to the air, bringing the wild Weedles with them, all stringing my Weedle, which had already started the process on its own. This marked the first step in strengthening Kakuna's shell.

Evolution is a delicate procedure, and to enhance the shell's strength, I fed the entire group of wild Weedles, ensuring their string composition matched that of my Weedle so the rejection was reduced.

As the cocoon enveloped Weedle in bright light, the urgency evolved into anticipation as I got to work as I had wild Kakunas spew crushed berry juices dripped in their saliva, onto the evolving Cocoon, theoretically increasing the energy accumulated.

I hope that this chewed berry juice helps in better digestion.

Rotomdex flew all around informing the Pokemon to adjust the quantity. "Group 1 increased the oran berries, Group 2 increased the Lum juices. Group 3 chew better."

The Beedrills maintained a vigilant watch, their buzzing sounds echoing a shared excitement for the transformation unfolding before them.

The urgency had given way to a moment of awe, where time seemed to stand still.

The brightness intensified, creating an ethereal spectacle that captivated both Pokémon and trainer alike. The urgency that had fueled our actions transformed into a sense of accomplishment and pride. The large cocoon pulsated with energy, signalling the significant changes taking place within.

The radiant glow of evolution subsided amidst the collective cheers of my Pokémon and the Beedrills. The atmosphere was charged with excitement, and the air resonated with the jubilant cries of my team. I couldn't help but feel a surge of pride and accomplishment as I witnessed the transformation of my Weedle into a newly evolved Kakuna.

The Beedrills, experienced in the art of evolution ceremonies, fluttered their wings with a synchronized rhythm, creating a symphony of buzzing sounds. Their antennae quivered in delight, and the entire Beedrill clan seemed to be celebrating the emergence of a new member to their evolutionary ranks.

During this joyous occasion, my Kakuna stood tall, encased in its sturdy cocoon. The once timid Weedle had undergone a remarkable metamorphosis, and the collective energy stored in its cocoon promised me a potent evolution into the formidable Beedrill.

My Pokémon, each contributing to the path-clearing efforts, couldn't contain their elation at the successful evolution. Their cheers echoed through the air, forming a cacophony of voices that resonated with triumph.

ELLECTABUZZZZZZ

EEEVVEEEE

SCYTHER

SLAKKOATH

It's time I give the praise that is due to them. A trainer needs to praise every effort of their Pokemon. It might be irritating but it must be done frequently.

"Electrabuzz, that Thunderbolt was amazing! You were the main force that cleared the way for Weedle's evolution," I exclaimed, acknowledging the electric Pokémon's pivotal role in creating a safe path.

Primeape, flexing its muscular arms, roared in approval, its fighting spirit ignited by the accomplishment, "Brick Break did the trick! I must say the day you evolve will be the day all your punches truly flourish. "

I rubbed the head of sleeping Slakoth who deserved it and told my Eevee, "You are the best princess."

Scyther's wings hummed with satisfaction as it gracefully hovered in the air, aloof but a silent protector of the group. He was the one that battled the most along the way.

Weedle, now a Kakuna, seemed to vibrate with energy within its shell, "You are the star of the day buddy. Right guys?"

Eevee, with a cheerful bark, expressed its excitement, while Electabuzz crackled with electric energy, visibly praising the little guy.

Amidst the cheers and celebration, I couldn't help but feel a deep sense of gratitude for the Beedrill clan.

As the cheers echoed in the clearing, I decided, it was time I took the Kanto circuit by storm.

------------Pewter city----------

Having emerged from the lush green expanse of Viridian Forest, the sight of civilization was a welcome change. My time in the forest was eventful, to say the least.

The moment I arrived, a sense of relief washed over me, prompting a well-deserved day of rest and indulgence in both sleep and hearty meals.

Slakoth, always the discerning critic of my lifestyle choices, seemed to approve of the leisurely day.

As the first rays of a new day bathed Pewter City in a warm glow, I set out to explore its streets.

[Knowledge point: Pewter City, renowned for its affiliation with Rock-type Pokémon, featured various stores artfully carved into different rocks, some even adorned with gleaming diamonds and rubies. Each store bore a unique charm, showcasing the creativity and craftsmanship of the city's residents.]

But at the end of the day, I no longer have time for leisure. I spent more than 3 months in the forest training my team. Considering the time I spent in Viridian City, the circuit has already started a month now.

My urgency has led me to the Pewter Gym. Thanks to the convenience of modern technology and Rotomdex's online appointment registration, securing a slot for a gym battle was a simple click away.

It was a luxury I enjoyed, considering that not everyone had reached the tech benefits of smartphones yet.

Despite the existence of such technology, its widespread use was yet to be explored, a gap I believed would be bridged by the innovation of Pokegear, a device that I anticipated Unova and Hoenn's Devon Corp branches might develop in the future.

With the appointment set, I approached the Pewter Gym, a solid structure embodying the city's commitment to Rock-type Pokémon excellence. The exterior showcased intricate rock carvings, showing its long heritage dating back to the foundation of the Pokemon League.

As I entered the gym, the air was tinged with the scent of stone, and the ground beneath my feet felt rock solid.

The gym trainers, clad in sturdy rock-themed uniforms, greeted me with nods of acknowledgement. Their attire reflected both practicality and style, a fusion of functionality and a nod to the city's Rock-type affinity.

I proceeded to the gym leader's arena; a battlefield surrounded by colossal rocks.

"Challenger Archer from the country of Bharatsa, Kanto is here for his gym challenge against gym leader Flint."

I looked towards my opponent, Rock-type Pokémon specialist, Flint, the Gym leader of Pewter Gym and the father of Brock who accompanied Ash in the Canon.

I started with releasing my starter Electabuzz. A demonstration of my expertise by showing my starter strength, since I am far above the official alliance data concerning me. After all, I have no official badges to my name.

A courtesy is to be shown to the Gym leader so they may give the appropriate Gym trial to the challenger based on this knowledge.

Flint acknowledged my choice with a nod, releasing his Geodude, the rocky brown with a hint of polish in the right grooves suggested it was a well-bred Pokémon. I can truly say it would give a normal Electrabuzz a challenge but for mine -I shook my head in exasperation.

It seems he looks down on me for trying to walk both Pokemon battling and Pokemon Breeder at the same time.

It is like trying to do doctorates in Medical studies and Engineering at the same time.

Flint, known for his straightforward demeanour, couldn't help but comment on my three-month absence. "I have been waiting for the youngest breeder in Kanto for some time. You disappeared, and the media was going crazy for your photos."

I responded with a nonchalant shrug, my focus squarely on the battle at hand. "I was training my Pokémon team," I replied, maintaining my calm demeanour.

The battlefield was filled with silence as we waited for the referee to begin the match. "On the count of 3, I will declare the start of the Gym challenge. Trainers get ready."

I nodded to the referee feeling slightly nervous as this was the start of my circuit.

"3."

Flint, nodded confidently to the Referee, unaware of the imminent shock that awaited him.

"2."

Knowing about the strategy I made for Electabuzz, I felt confident in myself, good preparation has such an effect.

Now with both my mind and heart ready, it is time to crush my opponent who sent out a newbie Geodude, insulting Electabuzz's efforts in training.

The rock Pokemon, while good is frankly not on the same level as Electabuzz. Trust me, I say this as a breeder.

"1. Begin."

----------Flint vs Archer-----------

"THUNDER"

The command for Thunder resonated through the arena just as Electabuzz's move surged forward with a sudden burst of speed, drenching the arena in the electric glow.

The spectators, including Flint, watched in stunned silence as the bolts of thunder closed the distance with unparalleled swiftness. Geodude, Flint's first Pokémon, had barely registered the impending danger when the crackling electricity enveloped it.

The Thunder attack struck with an unexpected intensity, catching both Flint and Geodude off guard. The sheer power of the move surged through Geodude, overwhelming it completely. The suddenness of the attack left Flint wide-eyed, and his confident demeanour shattered in an instant.

The crowd, initially caught in hushed silence for the beginning of the match, erupted into gasps and cheers as they saw the overpowering force of Electabuzz's Thunder, where even the stray bolts crushed rocks in the field, forming pits of lightning strikes.

There is a reason Thunder, Solar Beam, Hyper Beam, Hydro Pump etc, all these heavy hitter moves are so famous in the Pokémon battle scene. Every single one of these moves is pure concentrated energy that can say fuck typing, showing the same strength as natural disasters.

If you want to understand in simple terms, what the fuck is a type chart when a tsunami comes into a forest? What the fuck is a type-chart when a bolt of lightning from the clouds strikes the ground? No amount of earthing can stop the damage.

What the fuck is a type-chart when a volcano erupts onto a lake?

Pokémon follows the same rules as nature. The so-called immunities and resistances exist only when both sides are perfectly equal in intensity. Unfortunately, this is not a science lab to have such perfect conditions.

The real world is unfair and at the same time, with its ways.

I could see the cracks in Geodude's armour appearing one by one, showing its inexperience in facing electric opponents. After all its rock armor said that much to me.

I see multiple rock-type armor forged to withstand stronger lightning as their experience in battle increases. Unfortunately, this Geodude is not ready for my Electabuzz. Frankly speaking, I can say without a hint of arrogance that Electabuzz can challenge a 4-badge gym challenge right now.

I watched as the thunder fizzled out, leaving a smoke-filled arena that slowly cleared bit by bit to show a cracked flooring with smashed rocks. But the most miserable is Geodude.

Geodude, recoiling from the impact, shows signs of confusion and weakness as the cracks spread further reaching its face. I could see sparks still rising here and there among the cracks making it flinch in pain, paralyzing it.

So, I seized the opportunity to maintain momentum.

"THUNDERR"

Electabuzz to the shock of many electric-type trainers in the crowd, managed to start up another Thunder. I smiled at the second round of bolts of thunder hitting the geodude.

I spent years, dedicating myself to increasing the electricity capacity of Electabuzz, each day training himself to unconsciousness. Now, he is finally getting acknowledgement for his hard work.

I decided before coming here, that Electabuzz would be the only Pokémon that would fight, today. In preparation, he drank 10 days' worth of his abnormal charge capacity. Currently, he is an overloaded reactor on the verge of meltdown. Even my breeding can't save his body from this insanity without immediate release.

As the cheers of the onlookers filled the air, the first round concluded with Electabuzz standing victorious. It was a sign that the rigorous training and strategic planning that had consumed our past three months was the right move.

"How? While Thunder releases large amounts of electricity, it is tough for Electric Pokémon to use it so fast because it takes time to concentrate such a large amount. That's the reason most generally prefer the faster and more easily controlled Thunderbolt."

I smiled in response to Flint's question, my pride evident in my breeding work as I said, "Look closely at Electabuzz."

Electabuzz exhibited short sparks of electricity buzzing around him, a clear sign that he was utilizing Charge. A lifetime of meticulous training had bestowed upon Electabuzz the ability to covertly store and concentrate the generated electricity from Charge, unlike the flashy displays seen in other electric Pokémon. Soon, even this subtle manifestation would disappear as he mastered Charge.

All in all, my starter has turned into a unique beast under my care.

"Though he truly has no control," I admitted, gesturing towards the battlefield now filled with holes.

Flint chuckled at that, quickly regaining his composure. "However, the battle was only just beginning."

Undeterred by the initial setback, Flint swiftly sent out his second Pokémon—a Graveler, a formidable Rock and Ground type known for its sturdy and robust nature, and an evolution of Geodude.

The massive creature stood before us, its rocky exterior exuding a thirst for battle, something I see in Electabuzz every day.

With a knowing grin, Flint awaited the next phase of the battle, ready to showcase the strength of his diverse team.

Under the referee's command, the next part began.

"I hereby declare the continuation of the gym challenge."

"Graveler, Rock Throw! Aim for Electabuzz!" Flint bellowed, prompting the Rock Pokémon to hurl rocks at my Electric-type partner.

The battlefield transformed into an uncharted video game, with Graveler following Flint's commands to unleash a series of Rock Throws at my starter who is dodging here and there, running towards Graveller.

There is no other choice, as the first round was luck. From now on, it is time to show skill and grit.

I saw that Electabuzz manoeuvred with agility, deftly evading each incoming rock projectile with ease. I smiled with ease, considering Electabuzz trained to avoid the assassin type of attacks from crowds of Beedrill. Compared to that, the rocks are simply too slow for him.

"Now, Rollout! Crush him, Graveler!"

Flint commanded, urging his Pokémon to unleash its powerful, rolling assault.

The ground trembled as the massive Graveler switched tactics, initiating a series of Rollouts to close the distance between them, rumbling its way through everything in its path.

Stones come in its path, and then they are broken through.

Rocks come in its path, and then they are broken through.

Boulders come in its path, and then they are broken through.

I didn't want Electabuzz in its path.

Initially, Electabuzz did well in dodging the attacks, but the nature of the rollout showed.

"Electabuzz, dodge forward. Now, dodge back. Again, dodge back."

The speed that picked up troubled Electabuzz who couldn't dodge due to the rocks that were acting as obstructions. Yes, the same rocks from the rock throw. As expected, as a gym Leader each mover is connected to the next one.

These rocks served as a screen for the direction of Graveller's attack, managing the first attack and from there the torment started.

Thud

Electabuzz roared out in frustration, "BUZZ"

"Electabuzz hold on."

Thud.

Despite the relentless onslaught, Electabuzz exhibited resilience, grunting in response to each impactful collision. It stood firm, weathering the storm of Rollouts with determination. But, I could see drops of blood from the corner of its mouth, and bruises forming all over its body.

The battlefield echoed with the clash of elements, as Electabuzz used charge despite the blows.

As Graveler initiated its third rotation of Rollout, closing in on Electabuzz, I seized the moment.

"Discharge! Release all your stored electricity from the Charge!" I commanded.

In an instant, Electabuzz responded, channelling the accumulated energy into a dazzling display of electrical power. The arena crackled with the unleashed electricity, creating an electrifying spectacle that reverberated through the battlefield.

The synergy between Electabuzz and me was evident as the strategy prepared yesterday unfolded with trust and precision.

Sensing the opportunity to capitalize on Graveler's momentary vulnerability, I shouted, "Low Kick and Brick Break to slam it into the ground!"

Electabuzz swiftly moved into action. With a precise Low Kick, it targeted Graveler's legs, causing the Rock Pokémon to stumble. Capitalizing on the opening, Electabuzz delivered a powerful Brick Break, smashing Graveler into the ground. The round is considered won because the most known weakness of rock or earth type is their slow nature to get back to their feet from the ground. Their heavy armoured bodies became the weights that held them down.

"Keep it going Electabuzz."

With a shout of anger, Electabuzz, had both of its arms filled with the glow of fighting energy. Using the chance, it stuck Graveller completely inch by inch into the ground, as if unloading all the pain.

BANG

ELECTABUZZZZZZ

I could see the heaving Electabuzz coming back to my side and starting the Rest in preparation for the next round. I believed in his judgement, if he believed we won, then we won the round.

Despite the gruelling battle with Graveller, Electabuzz stood ready for the next round.

Flint, gritting his teeth, and returned his Graveller. It must be frustrating to use Pokemon unable to keep up with your commands. Most importantly, I know that for 1st gym badge matches, heavy hitter moves like earthquakes are forbidden to be used by Gym Leaders.

Until the 8 gym badges are acquired by the challenger, the gym leaders are like caged beasts, starved into exhaustion and handicapped with bearing weights.

Flint, not showing his thoughts, just sent out his third Pokémon—a formidable Golem, the last in the Geodude line.

As Golem entered the battlefield, Electabuzz showed signs of fatigue and injuries from the previous encounters. I could see his knees lightly buckling, but I don't know if he truly hurt his knees or just acting. While it is an unfair move, I instructed him to show fake weakness when needed.

Hopefully, Rest helped him recover enough, if it is a genuine injury. But for some reason, I believe he retained his legs and acting. I could just feel it. After all, I had known him since he was just an egg, I could recognize his thirst for battle and even more so, his thirst for victory and the fame that comes from it.

I realized my starter had taken up too much after me.

Flint, seizing the opportunity of Electabuzz knees buckling, and he shouted, "Rock Throw, Golem! Let's capitalize on Electabuzz's weakened state!" Golem responded with a barrage of rocks, aiming to exploit Electabuzz's exhaustion aiming for its feet, more specifically its knees.

The injured Electric-type, however, displayed mastery in Charge, smashing the rocks with a powerful Thunderbolt.

BOOM

The explosions from elements crashing echoed through the arena, creating a spectacle that captured the attention of all present. I could see the smoke arising from the smashed rocks, filling my vision with falling dust and stones.

BOOM

BOOOM

In a surprising move, Flint commanded Golem, " Use Sand Attack to raise the sand and use the advantages given to us."

Using they did, Golem managed to create a cloud of blinding sand that engulfed Electabuzz. The Electric type, temporarily blinded, struggled to maintain its focus.

Flint, seizing the advantage, commanded, "Now, Golem! Strike with a Rollout!" In the sand-induced confusion, Golem initiated a powerful Rollout, closing in on the momentarily disoriented Electabuzz.

Despite the adversity, Electabuzz, guided by its trust in my commands, countered the blind disadvantage with dodges.

"Dodge left."

"Dodge back."

"Jump."

As Golem gaining speed from the successful rollouts.

I observed the battlefield with a determined expression, recognizing the challenge, but I cursed as the Golem entered the holes in the ground and started to emerge from the ground using Rollout sporadically.

Thud

Thud.

Electabuzz stood in the same spot, making me doubt whether he was injured but felt silly in an instant. He is my Starter, my Electabuzz.

"Electabuzz, we've come a long way. Let's finish this battle strong," I encouraged, rallying my Electric-type partner.

I saw a pattern with Golem coming from the front, with a speed that crushed the rocks in his path, realizing Golem or Flint wanted to avenge the previous humiliation. As if to prove Pewter Gym's philosophy of crushing anything in its path by pushing the limits of a single move.

Gym philosophies are unique signs of heritage, but they are also the most widely known weaknesses to exploit. Generally, gym leaders know the extent to apply it but Flint is just being a brute about his.

If the rollout came from Flint's team Golem, the philosophy might have held truth but using them now with gym Pokémon against me stubbornly is plain stupidity.

"End it."

Electabuzz smirked and completely collapsed his knees causing gasps to occur in the background.

BOOM

BOOOM

"What the hell?"

I smirked at Flint who saw Electabuzz in the air, because the knee collapse was a controlled movement by Electabuzz to lure the golem. Lure he did.

Then with a single extension of his knees, Electabuzz completed a massive jump of 10 feet, making his position overhead of the rolling Golem

ELECTABUZZZZ

Electabuzz summoned his hidden ace—a Focus Punch. With a burst of determination, Electabuzz unleashed the charged punch, aiming for Golem's vulnerable point- its head. The blow landed with precision, stunning Golem and halting its Rollout mid-motion.

BOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOM

Such precision took months of training back home, now it yielded results. I knew from this event, my decision to get him as early as possible was the right one. After all, such comprehensive skills take time to learn.

ELECTAAABUZZZZZZZZ

With the roar from Electabuzz, I could see the muscles of his arm contact wildly under the surging fighting energy, I heard his bones breaking but it was worth it in the end. As the golem was smashed into the ground forming a 10-meter-wide pit, I knew the outcome.

BOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOMMMMM

The arena crackled with cheers from the crowd as Electabuzz emerged victorious, singlehandedly overcoming the gym challenge.

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