POKEMON : THE WAY OF PERCEPTION

Pewter Gym, established by the Kanto Pokémon League, stands as a symbol of tradition and progression. Initially built for protecting the city, the Gym evolved alongside society, transforming into a place where humans and Pokémon could connect and where promising trainers could rise to prominence.

The primary role of Gyms today is to evaluate and train aspiring Pokémon Trainers. By challenging eight Gyms and earning their Badges, trainers prove their mettle to the League. However, the true goal of this system isn't just to crown champions in League tournaments; it's to identify and cultivate talented trainers who can contribute to the League's future.

Some of the most powerful Gyms even offer opportunities for trainers to study as Gym Trainers, although these programs often require tuition fees. Unfortunately, weaker Gyms like Pewter and Cerulean lack the reputation to attract students, forcing them to rely solely on League subsidies.

The Pewter Gym's struggles are compounded by the situation of its caretaker, Brock. With eight younger siblings, Brock has been burdened with maintaining the Gym while also ensuring his family's well-being. His ability to manage both is remarkable, though born out of necessity.

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Preparing for the Gym Battle

After a restful night, Ash and Pikachu were refreshed and ready to challenge the Pewter Gym. Following breakfast, Ash set out with Misty for his first Gym battle.

The Pewter Gym's design was striking, resembling a towering structure of stacked boulders, hinting at its focus on Rock-type Pokémon. Ash marveled at its size, much larger than the modest depiction he remembered from the animated series. Its sheer scale rivaled that of the local Pokémon Center, highlighting the significant resources needed to maintain such a facility.

Outside the Gym, several trainers loitered around, but none appeared to be official Gym Trainers. They were likely challengers waiting for their turn.

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An Unexpected Gathering

"Ash!" a voice called out.

Startled, Ash turned to see a group of trainers approaching. Leading them was Donnie, the trainer they had encountered in the field the previous day.

"You're really here to challenge the Gym!" Donnie exclaimed, excitement evident in his voice.

"Of course!" Ash replied confidently. "Did you all come to watch?"

"Absolutely! We're here to cheer you on!" Donnie declared. The group behind him echoed his enthusiasm, their collective energy drawing curious glances from nearby trainers and Gym staff.

Ash smiled warmly. "Thanks, everyone! I'll do my best."

"You'd better hurry and register," Donnie urged. "It's still early, so there aren't many challengers. If you register now, you might get your turn soon!"

Nodding, Ash headed inside with Misty.

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Registering for the Challenge

The Gym's reception area was spacious and orderly. Unlike the simplicity portrayed in games and anime, challenging a Gym in real life required proper registration.

Ash approached the front desk, where a friendly staff member greeted him.

"Good morning! Are you both here to challenge the Gym?"

"No, just me," Ash clarified, pulling out his Pokédex.

The staff member nodded, taking the device and inserting it into a slot on the counter. She began typing on the computer, while Ash craned his neck to see what she was doing. Unfortunately, the screen wasn't visible from his angle.

As the staff reviewed Ash's details, her expression shifted to one of surprise.

"This can't be right…" she murmured, glancing between the computer screen and Ash.

"What's wrong?" Ash asked, concerned.

The staff shook her head, still processing what she saw. "It's just… unusual. You became a registered trainer less than a week ago, but your trainer level has already reached Poké Ball Level?"

Ash blinked in confusion. "Is that a problem?"

"Not at all! It's just remarkable," she replied, verifying the data. "Most trainers remain at Rookie Level for months, if not longer. To have advanced this quickly is practically unheard of."

After completing the registration, the staff returned Ash's Pokédex. "Since your level is Poké Ball, the Gym Leader will use Pokémon of a matching level. The Pewter Gym's battles are two-on-two, so you meet the requirements to proceed."

Ash nodded, taking the information in stride.

"You may wait in the hall until the current battle concludes," the staff added. "We'll announce your turn over the intercom."

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Waiting for the Challenge

Ash and Misty moved to the waiting area, joining three other trainers who were also preparing to challenge the Gym. The atmosphere was tense, each trainer focused on their upcoming battles.

Ash, however, appeared calm. As he leaned back in his seat, Misty couldn't help but ask, "Nervous?"

He shook his head, smiling. "Not really. I've trained hard for this. Plus, Pikachu and I are ready for anything."

Misty chuckled. "Confidence suits you. But don't underestimate Brock. He's got experience, and Rock-types are no joke."

Ash nodded. He knew Brock's reputation as a skilled Gym Leader, even if the Pewter Gym's status was currently underwhelming. Winning this battle would require strategy and precision, especially against Brock's powerful Onix and Geodude.

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The Challenge Ahead

As Ash waited for his turn, his mind drifted to the Gym's broader struggles. Brock's dedication to his family and the Gym was commendable, but the lack of resources and recognition hindered Pewter Gym's potential.

Ash resolved to give it his all, not just to win his first Badge, but to show respect for Brock's efforts and the legacy of the Pewter Gym.

As the intercom crackled to life, announcing Ash's name, he stood up with determination in his eyes.

"It's time," he said, glancing at Pikachu. The electric mouse chirped excitedly, sparks crackling from its cheeks.

With Misty offering an encouraging smile, Ash made his way to the battle arena, ready to face his first Gym Leader and take another step toward becoming a Pokémon Master.

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