POKEMON : THE WAY OF PERCEPTION

After dinner, the clock struck nine. Though it wasn't particularly late, for Brock's family, this was the time when most of the younger children were already in bed, making the house unusually quiet.

"Forrest, take Salvadore and Tommy for their baths," Brock instructed after the younger sisters had already bathed.

"Yes, big brother!" Forrest replied with maturity beyond his years. As the second eldest, he had been helping Brock manage the household from a young age. Without hesitation, he guided his two younger brothers to the bathroom, while the rest of the siblings were either getting ready for bed or already asleep.

With the house silent except for the sound of running water, Brock leaned back on the sofa, his gaze fixed on the ceiling. His mind wandered back to his battle with Ash earlier in the day. The encounter had left an impression, not only because of the match but because of Ash's determination and spirit.

The steam from a cup of tea on the table swirled lazily upward before dissipating. A single tea leaf floated on the surface, mirroring Brock's unsettled emotions.

"Big brother, we've finished bathing. You should go shower too!" Forrest's voice broke Brock's thoughts. Forrest stood in the doorway with the two younger brothers, their hair damp from the bath.

"Alright. Goodnight, you three," Brock replied with a smile, standing up. He watched as they shuffled off to bed before gathering his pajamas and heading to the bathroom.

---

While Brock showered, the door to the house creaked open. A man with a disheveled appearance and tired eyes stepped inside. He glanced around at the familiar surroundings, which now felt alien after so many years away.

This man was Flint, Brock's estranged father.

Removing his red knitted cap, Flint peeled off a fake beard glued to his face, revealing features strikingly similar to Brock's but older and wearier.

"I'm back," Flint murmured to himself. Setting his hat and fake beard on the hallway table, he tiptoed into the living room.

The cup of tea Brock had poured earlier sat on the table, now cold, with the tea leaf settled at the bottom.

Flint's eyes roamed the room, taking in the neat and organized space. A pang of guilt struck him as he realized how much responsibility Brock had taken on in his absence. "You've worked so hard, Brock..." he muttered, his voice heavy with regret.

---

Years ago, Flint had abandoned his family to pursue his dreams of becoming a great Pokémon Trainer. Unable to face the pressure of family life, he left everything—his children, his wife, and the Pewter Gym. Brock, the eldest of ten siblings, had stepped up in his absence, passing the Alliance's tests to take over as Gym Leader at the age of eleven.

For four years, Brock had shouldered the burden of the family, transforming the once Water-type Pewter Gym into a Rock-type gym using the Onix Flint had gifted him before disappearing.

Earlier that day, Flint had secretly watched Brock's battle against Ash. Witnessing his son's passion and hearing his words to Ash stirred something within him. He realized it was time to stop running from his responsibilities.

---

Brock finished his shower and emerged from the bathroom, drying his hair with a towel. He froze when he noticed the figure standing in the living room.

"Dad?" Brock's voice trembled with disbelief.

Flint turned around, forcing a smile. "It's been a while, Brock."

For a moment, Brock said nothing, his emotions warring inside him. Anger, relief, and confusion mingled as he clenched his fists. Finally, he stepped forward and punched Flint lightly in the stomach—not out of malice, but as a way to release his pent-up frustration.

Flint didn't flinch. Instead, he pulled Brock into a hug. Brock's shoulders shook as tears began to flow.

"You've worked so hard," Flint said softly. "I'm sorry for everything. From now on, I'll take care of the family and the gym. It's time for you to pursue your dreams—even for my share."

---

A New Beginning

The next morning, Forrest woke up early, as he had every day for the past six months, to help Brock prepare breakfast. But when he entered the kitchen, he was surprised to find Flint instead.

"Dad?" Forrest blinked, confused.

Flint turned around, a nervous smile on his face. "Good morning, Forrest! Breakfast will be ready soon."

Forrest noticed Flint fumbling with the recipe and the ingredients. "Wait—where's Brock?"

Flint paused, his smile faltering. "He left early this morning... He's gone to pursue his dreams."

Forrest stared at Flint, his mind racing. He wasn't sure how to feel about his father's sudden return or his brother's departure.

Realizing Flint was struggling with the cooking, Forrest rolled up his sleeves. "Let me help."

Flint watched his son take charge with ease, a mixture of guilt and pride filling him. He remembered Brock's parting words before he left.

"The gym can go to Forrest once he's ready," Brock had said. "Dad, you just focus on taking care of the others."

As Flint watched Forrest skillfully manage the kitchen, he knew Brock's decision had been the right one.

---

For Brock, leaving Pewter City wasn't easy. He had spent years putting his siblings first, but now, with Flint back, he finally had the chance to chase his own dreams.

As he walked away from the only home he had known, Brock couldn't help but feel a sense of freedom. With his bag on his back and his Pokémon by his side, he set his sights on a new adventure.

The road ahead was uncertain, but Brock was ready to face whatever challenges awaited him.

---

(End of Chapter)

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