POKEMON : THE WAY OF PERCEPTION

"Congratulations..." Brock approached Ash after the match, holding a small badge in his hand. It was an octagonal badge resembling a rock, symbolic of Pewter City.

"This is the Boulder Badge," Brock said, handing it to Ash with a small smile.

"Thank you!" Ash exclaimed, shaking Brock's hand. He stared at the badge with pride and excitement. This was his first gym badge, earned through determination and skill. It was a significant milestone on his journey to becoming the world's greatest Pokémon Trainer.

"Ding! Achievement unlocked: [Get the first Badge]. Reward: 1 lucky draw," the system chimed in Ash's mind, notifying him of the new accomplishment.

"You're strong—very strong," Brock said, his tone serious. "I have no doubt your future is bright. I look forward to seeing you in the Pokémon League someday, perhaps even at the top of the podium."

"I will!" Ash responded with conviction. His dream of becoming the world's mightiest trainer felt one step closer.

Brock nodded. "Your next destination is Cerulean City, right?"

"That's right," Ash confirmed, his enthusiasm undeterred.

At the mention of Cerulean City, Misty's expression shifted slightly, though she remained silent.

"If you're heading there, you'll need to pass through Mt. Moon," Brock explained. "Make sure to prepare properly. The mountain may not be as dangerous as it once was, thanks to the Alliance's efforts, but you'll still need supplies—especially a reliable source of light. Mt. Moon is pitch black inside."

Ash listened attentively. Unlike the carefree way his journey often unfolded in the anime, he knew preparation was critical in this real-world adventure.

Brock seemed eager to share more advice. His tone was animated, as though living vicariously through Ash's journey. However, before he could continue, a staff member interrupted.

"Brock," the staff member said apologetically, "it's time for the next challenger. They've been waiting for five minutes."

Brock froze for a moment, his enthusiasm fading. His duty as Pewter Gym Leader weighed heavily on him. He glanced back at Ash, reluctant to say goodbye. "Good luck out there," he said finally, his voice tinged with longing.

"You too," Ash replied warmly. After a final wave, Ash and Misty left the gym.

---

A Somber Farewell

On their way back to the Pokémon Center, Misty broke the silence. "Brock... He seems to want to leave Pewter City and see the world."

Ash nodded slightly. He understood Brock's desire for freedom but couldn't discuss it openly.

"If he wants to explore, why doesn't he just leave?" Misty wondered aloud.

"It's probably a family issue," Ash said after a moment. "Or maybe something else holding him back."

Misty fell quiet, reflecting on her own family situation. She thought of the Cerulean Gym, which her sisters stubbornly clung to despite its struggles.

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Preparations for Mt. Moon

Back at the Pokémon Center, Ash handed Beedrill and Pidgeotto to Nurse Joy for treatment. Misty remained distracted, leaving Ash to handle preparations for their journey to Mt. Moon.

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Brock's Life at Home

Later that evening, Brock returned to his home behind the Pewter Gym. The house bustled with activity as his younger siblings prepared for dinner.

"Forrest, can you set the table and call everyone in?" Brock asked his younger brother, his voice warm.

"On it, big bro!" Forrest replied, hurrying to place the dishes and gather their siblings.

Brock finished cooking, bringing the last of the food to the dining table. Feeding ten people was a daunting task, but it had become second nature to him.

Once everyone was seated, Brock clasped his hands together. "Let's eat!"

"Let's eat!" the children echoed in unison before digging in.

"Big bro, your cooking is amazing!" Forrest said, his mouth full of fried chicken.

"Yeah!" the others chimed in, grinning as they devoured their meals.

Brock smiled, watching his siblings enjoy the food. It was moments like these that made his sacrifices worthwhile. Yet, despite his contentment, a shadow of longing lingered in his eyes.

Forrest noticed his brother's distraction. Leaning closer, he asked quietly, "Big bro, is something wrong?"

Brock blinked, startled by the question. "No, it's nothing," he replied, forcing a smile. "I'm just tired from all the challengers today."

Forrest didn't push further, but he knew Brock wasn't telling the whole truth.

---

Reflections

As his siblings laughed and chatted around the dinner table, Brock felt a pang of regret. He dreamed of traveling the world, meeting new people, and discovering rare Pokémon. Yet, his responsibilities as both a gym leader and a surrogate parent kept him tethered to Pewter City.

He thought of Ash's determination and the fire in his eyes. Perhaps, one day, Brock could also find a way to chase his dreams.

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(End of Chapter)

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