Pokemon: An Unexpected Odyssey

Gary Oak's life was a complicated mess, to say the least.

If one were to paint his life, it would resemble an abstract canvas splattered with a myriad of colors and shapes. The first splash on this chaotic artwork occurred on a snowy day when he was just four years old.

Snowflakes drifted lazily from the gray sky, each one unique and glistening softly as they fell.

Little Gary, bundled up in a thick, puffy jacket that nearly swallowed his tiny frame, held tightly to his sister Daisy's hand. Her mittens were pink, and she squeezed his hand reassuringly as they followed their father, Blue, through the cold.

Their steps left small, eager imprints in the fresh snow as they made their way to their grandpa's house. The air was crisp, biting at any exposed skin, but the excitement of seeing Grandpa Samuel warmed Gary's heart more than his woolen scarf could.

As they reached the doorstep, Blue knocked on the heavy wooden door. It swung open, revealing Grandpa Samuel, his eyes twinkling like the snowflakes that adorned his bushy eyebrows.

"Hello there, Dad," Blue replied in a no-nonsense tone.

The old professor gave a nod to his son and turned to the two munchkins.

"Hello, my little adventurers!" Grandpa Samuel Oak boomed, his voice a comforting rumble. He knelt down to their level, his knees creaking slightly, and opened his arms wide. Gary hesitated for a moment. But then, Daisy led the charge into their grandpa's embrace, pulling him along.

Gary looked up into his grandpa's wrinkled face, his initial shyness melting away like the snow on their boots.

"Hi, Grandpa."

"Welcome, Gary! Welcome, Daisy!" Samuel's voice was like a warm blanket, enveloping them in its embrace. "I have hot chocolate waiting for you, with little marshmallows just the way you like!"

Daisy clapped her hands, and Gary's eyes lit up with joy.

The day had been absolutely perfect. Yet, despite that, Dad seemed distracted, his thoughts miles away. The following morning only confirmed the family's suspicions when they discovered he was gone.

Sitting at the breakfast table, young Daisy Oak broke the silence.

"Grandpa, where's Dad?"

"Well, he had some work to do, but let's have some fun with Grandpa!" Professor Oak tried to infuse some cheer into his voice.

Daisy cheered at the suggestion, quick to join in the fun, playing with the Pokémon on the ranch. Gary, on the other hand, remained quiet, his young mind filled with thoughts of emulating his father. While his sister and grandfather engaged with the Pokémon, Gary's attention was fixed on the door, silently hoping for his father to walk through it so he could rush to hug his legs.

Yet, as the days stretched into weeks and weeks into a month, there was no sign of Dad.

Before long, Gary found himself celebrating his fifth birthday.

The small surprise birthday party was a modest affair, just Grandpa Oak and Daisy. Professor Oak had decorated the living room with a few streamers and balloons, the colors bright but not quite able to fill the room. A small cake sat on the table, adorned with five little candles flickering softly which casted a warm glow over Gary's hopeful face, Professor Oak encouraged him with a gentle nod, "Come on, blow out the candles and make a wish."

"I wish... Dad was back," Gary whispered earnestly as he blew out the candles, only for Daisy to suddenly exclaim, "No!"

Gary turned to his older sister; confusion etched across his face.

"You baka, if you say your wish out loud, it won't come true!"

At her words, Gary's face crumpled, and he burst into tears, the weight of his spoken wish and the fear it might not come true overwhelming him.

"No, no, kids, no fighting," Professor Oak intervened quickly, his voice soothing.

"But... but my wish..." Gary sobbed, his voice catching with each word,

"It'll come true, my boy, as long as you be the best."

"Really?" both Daisy and Gary chorused, their tear-streaked faces turning towards their grandfather with a glimmer of hope.

"Of course, why would Gramps ever lie?"

Encouraged by his grandfather's words, Gary wiped away his tears, his resolve returning as he declared, "I'll be the best like no one ever was!"

"Yay!" Daisy cheered.

Professor Oak simply smiled, watching the two children find comfort in each other and their shared hope. Silently, he sent a prayer to Celebi, hoping that his son would end his relentless pursuit—his own 'Zangoose chase'—and return to these precious children who needed him.

Gary Oak's first day at Pallet Town's kindergarten was filled with whispers and curious glances. As the grandson of the esteemed Professor Oak, he instantly became the center of attention, with both teachers and students buzzing about.

Despite the sudden popularity, Gary remained focused on a singular goal that seemed to dominate his young mind: he wanted to be the best.

His determination was visible even in simple classroom activities. Gary approached every task with intense seriousness, whether it was building blocks or drawing. He listened intently during story time and was eager to answer questions during lessons, quickly distinguishing himself among his peers.

While his classmates were keen to befriend him, Gary often kept to himself.

They would say, "Gary is so talented."

Inside, Gary felt a twinge of annoyance whenever his efforts were attributed merely to talent and not his hard work but ultimately, he didn't care.

For little five-year-old Gary, being the best wasn't just about making people proud. It was about showing himself—and hoping, in some way, his Dad—that he was strong and good enough. If he was the best, maybe Dad would come back to him.

One dreary afternoon, the sky opened up, showering the world below with a gentle, persistent rain. A group of kindergarteners huddled together under a whimsically designed bus stop, which was fashioned to look like a giant Snorlax holding an umbrella.

Gary sat quietly; his gaze fixed on the rhythmic dance of raindrops splattering against the pavement. He enjoyed the freshness in the air, the way the rain seemed to wash everything clean.

Suddenly, the peaceful ambiance was disrupted by a squelch of mud, followed by a small thud. Gary turned sharply to the source of the noise and saw one of his classmates, a spiky-haired boy, sprawled in the mud. The boy's knees were scraped, mud staining his clothes, and his face contorted as if he had been pushed.

"Awe, gonna cry,freak?"

The spiky-haired boy tried to hold back tears; his voice shaky.

"I am not a freak."

"You're a freak because youdon'thave a dad."

The young boy looked down, wishing the rain could mask his tears, when he suddenly felt a presence beside him.

Looking up, he saw Gary extending a hand toward him.

"Don't listen to those idiots, you aren't a freak."

The boy's face lit up with a tentative smile as he grasped Gary's clean hand, pulling himself up from the muddy ground. "Thanks, my name is Ash... Ash Ketchum."

"Gary, Gary Oak," Gary replied, shaking Ash's hand firmly.

Time indeed flew as Gary and Ash's friendship blossomed in the playgrounds and classrooms of Pallet Town. From their first encounter at the bus stop, the boys found themselves inseparable. Despite their different personalities, they complemented each other perfectly.

Gary often took the lead in their adventures. He was the strategist, always planning their next big Pokémon hunt or orchestrating how they could win the school's annual sports day.

Ash was more carefree and adventurous. He brought spontaneity and excitement to Gary's well-planned life. Ash's boundless enthusiasm and unwavering loyalty to his friends added a layer of fun and adventure to their daily interactions. He was always the first to suggest a daring escapade into the woods or a mock battle to test their skills.

Together, they shared countless afternoons exploring the forests around Pallet Town, trading Pokémon cards, and dreaming of becoming Pokémon Masters.

When Gary felt too pressured by his ambitions, Ash was there to lighten the mood with a joke or a silly challenge. And when Ash felt discouraged by a loss, Gary was there to strategize and help him improve.

The attic was a dusty, cobweb-laden room where shafts of light filtered through a small window, casting long shadows across the wooden floorboards and illuminating particles of dust that danced in the air. The smell of old wood and must permeated the space. Stacks of boxes and old furniture were piled haphazardly around the room.

"Idiot, move to the left," Gary instructed, struggling to hold up one end of a hefty chest, with Ash grappling with the other side.

Tomorrow was going to be show and tell, and even though Oak's grandson found it stupid, he still had to participate and the old man had sent them to the attic to get something.

"Ashy boi, my left."

"I am moving left!" Ash yelled back, his voice strained under the weight.

"What part of 'my left' don't you understand?"

"I am moving to my left!" Ash insisted, as he abruptly jerked to his left, causing the chest to tilt dangerously.

Suddenly, the balance was lost, and the chest tumbled down, spilling its contents across the creaky attic floor.

"My bad," Ash said, scratching the back of his head as he surveyed the mess, while Gary shot him a pointed look.

"Let's just…" Gary paused as his gaze landed on the scattered contents of the box—several first-generation Pokéballs made from acorns, a pile of old documents, and a photo album.

Curious, Gary picked up the photo album and flipped it open to a page showing a picture of his dad as a young man holding a karate trophy, with his grandmother standing beside him.

"Who's that? He kinda looks like Gar Bear but cooler," Ash inquired, peeking over Gary's shoulder.

"Yeah," Gary responded, unbothered by Ash's silly nickname as they began to sift through the album, revealing glimpses of his dad's childhood. The photos varied widely in age and location, illustrating that Blue didn't often pause to take pictures.

Yet, it was the last picture in the album that caught both boys' attention. It depicted Blue Oak standing next to a man who bore an uncanny resemblance to Ash. The man was holding a Pokéball marked with the letters 'G.S.'

"I know that Pokéball," Ash said casually as he reached into his pocket and pulled out a golden Pokéball adorned with the same 'GS' insignia.

"This was my show and tell item," Ash explained, holding it up for Gary to see.

"Hey, you think this is the same Pokéball?"

Gary's mind raced for a moment.

"Let's ask Gramps."

Professor Oak was settled comfortably in his armchair, sipping tea and browsing through the morning newspaper when Gary and Ash burst into the room.

"Gramps, Professor Oak!" Gary and Ash exclaimed almost simultaneously. They looked at each other, then back at the professor, their words tumbling over each other into incomprehensible gibberish.

The old man set his newspaper down with a thump, effectively silencing the boys.

"What can I do for you boys?"

"Do you know who this is?" Gary asked, placing the photo album on the table.

"And what is this?" Ash added, setting the mysterious GS Ball beside the album.

"Well, let's see," Professor Oak murmured, peering at the photograph. "Oh, this is a picture from the first ever Pokémon League in Johto. I believe the man beside your father is his rival, who went by the nickname Red just to annoy my son," he chuckled, reminiscing as the old man shared the story of Blue and Red, explaining that they first met during the war, where they quickly forged a strong friendship through their shared experiences. As the world began to recover post-war, new Pokémon leagues were being established, providing the perfect stage for Blue and Red to continue their rivalry.

Gary and Ash listened in awe.

"Professor Oak, do you think my dad could be Red?"

"Well, you'll have to ask your mother about that," Professor Oak responded thoughtfully. "And this," he said, picking up the GS Ball, "is a GS Ball. It was given to the first champion of the Silver League. I don't think it has any use beyond being a trophy."

Professor Oak couldn't help but see the irony in the situation.

Ash jumped for joy while Gary's expression remained blank, thoughtful. Something about Gary's reaction made Professor Oak's stomach churn—or perhaps it was the pineapple pizza he had for breakfast.

As they walked down the dirt road of Pallet Town, Ash chattered excitedly about his future Pokémon journey, his hands clasped casually behind his head.

"Gary, what starter are you going to choose? I'm going to go with a Squirtle."

Gary was silent, his mind clouded with heavier thoughts.

"You think Red is my dad?"

"I don't know," Gary replied absentmindedly, his voice distant.

"Something on your mind?" Ash probed further, sensing his friend's discomfort.

"The G.S ball, your father had it. That means my dad lost," Gary said, a hint of bitterness creeping into his voice.

"Yeah, you're right," Ash agreed, not fully grasping the significance of the statement, but Gary did.

To young Gary, his father was the epitome of success, the best of the best. How could he have lost? In a moment of frustration, Gary blurted out, "The G.S ball is fake."

"What?"

Impulsively, Gary snatched the G.S ball from his pocket and clicked it open. The ball, crafted from acorn with a beautiful vine pattern inside, was undeniably authentic. Yet, in a moment of denial and anger, Gary's belief in the unassailable image of his father was shattered. He tore the GS Ball into two halves, tossing the top part at Ash's feet.

"See, what did I tell you. It's fake," Gary said casually, trying to mask his internal turmoil.

Ash picked up the half of the Pokéball, tears beginning to stream down his face. This ball was one of the only connections he had to his father. "Hey, stop cry..." Gary started, but Ash shoved him back.

"You are a stinky butt face... You aren't my friend anymore..." Ash sobbed, his emotions raw. "I will be the best so that you won't ever be..." His gaze fixed on the remains of the GS ball. "This is proof that my dad was the best."

"Oh, yeah? If your dad is the best then prove it," Gary taunted, his own pain manifesting as defiance. He held the other half of the ball aloft.

"We start our journeys next month, I'll beat you at the league and I'll be the best," Ash declared through tears.

Gary pocketed the other half of the ball and started walking away, the weight of their broken friendship heavy in his heart. "Smell ya later, loser."

What had once been an inseparable friendship had turned into a deep-seated rivalry.

A month after the fateful day that transformed his friendship with Ash into a rivalry, Gary stood in his grandfather's lab, awaiting a significant moment. Alongside him were two other young trainers selected to begin their journeys today.

Melanie, a blue-haired girl, was somewhat familiar to Gary; her parents worked as assistants to Professor Oak.

Damien, on the other hand, was new to Gary. He was a boy with medium-length teal hair and a confident demeanor, easily noticeable with his stylish purple sunglasses. He wore a pink shirt layered under a vibrant yellow vest, completed with a brown belt—a bold statement of fashion among the typically casually dressed trainers.

Damien's situation was a bit unique.

His parents had paid to secure a starter Pokémon.

This wasn't unusual in itself, as most parents chose to purchase starters from various ranches for their children.

Professor Oak cleared his throat, ready to impart some wisdom before the choice of a starter Pokémon. "Being a Pokémon trainer is about more than just battling," he began. "It's about companionship, learning, and growing alongside your Pokémon. The Pokémon you choose today will be your first partner, the one with whom you'll face challenges, celebrate victories, and maybe even endure losses. Choose wisely." With a solemn nod.

"Now then, I have Charmander, Bulbasaur, and Squirtle. Which one will you choose?" Professor Oak asked, his eyes scanning the eager faces before him.

"I'll be the first to choose Charmander," Damien declared.

"I'll be happy to take Bulbasaur," Melanie chimed in.

"I'll take Squirtle," Gary announced with a grin, selecting the Pokémon Ash had wanted.

Damien and Melanie swiftly collected their Pokéballs and exited the lab, leaving Gary alone with his grandfather for a moment. Gary lingered, standing by the window, waiting for Ash to arrive so he could flaunt his new partner.

As time ticked by, an hour passed, and Gary's anticipation turned to irritation. Finally, Ash appeared, wandering toward the lab as absentmindedly as ever.

Gary didn't hesitate. He rushed to the door, barely hearing his grandfather's voice behind him.

"Aren't you doing a little too much?"

"Thanks for the starter, Gramps," Gary replied quickly, not turning to face his grandfather as he stepped outside.

As Gary approached the bustling crowd gathered at the gates of the Oak Pokémon Lab, his ears picked up the familiar sound of hurried footsteps.

"Well, Ash, better late than never, I suppose," Gary said, his voice carrying just enough smugness to get under his rival's skin.

He turned, catching Ash's expression as their eyes met. There was a flicker of surprise there, like he wasn't expecting to run into me. "G-Gary Oak?" he stammered.

Is he still half-asleep? Typical.

"That's Mr. Gary to you. Show some respect," Gary shot back, crossing his arms.

He glanced down at the Pokéball in his hand, twirling it casually. "Well, Ash, you snooze, you lose. And you're way behind from the start. I have a Pokémon, and you don't."

But Ash didn't take the bait. Instead, his response was sharper than expected, yet oddly calm.

"Must be quite the Pokémon to put up with your big head," Ash shot back.

Gary blinked, a flicker of surprise crossing his face. That wasn't the usual Ash retort. The words were Ash, sure, but there was something different about the delivery. His eyes didn't flare up with anger or defensiveness like they normally would. There was something else in his gaze—calm, almost like he was seeing everything with fresh eyes. Even me. It was unsettling.

"I bet you're wondering what Pokémon it is—"

"Squirtle," Ash said flatly, cutting him off.

Gary's mouth dropped slightly. What? How could he have known? Was he expecting me to pick Squirtle just to one-up him? No way, Ash isn't that smart. There's no way he could've guessed.

"How did you know?!" Gary demanded.

"There are three choices. I just picked one," Ash replied, his voice casual.

Gary's suspicion lingered, but he forced himself to shake it off. It didn't matter. Ash was still behind, still late, and that was all that mattered in the end. "Well, it doesn't matter. I have a journey to start," he declared, his voice regaining its confidence as he stepped toward the red car waiting nearby.

Amanda, sitting in the driver's seat, gave him a nod, signaling she was ready to go. Gary smirked one last time as he climbed into the car, looking over his shoulder at Ash.

"Smell ya later, Ashy-Boy."

With that, the car sped off, leaving Ash behind. Gary leaned back in his seat, satisfied with the exchange. He was ahead, just like always, and that was exactly how it was supposed to be.

The prospect of a road trip with six beautiful girls had initially seemed like a dream to Gary Oak. However, just a few hours into their journey, that dream had rapidly dissolved into something akin to a nightmare. Inside the car, it was an entirely different world—one dominated by conversations and interests that left Gary feeling like an outsider. He sat awkwardly in the backseat, completely lost in the chatter that swirled around him. Maybe I should have traveled alone, he mused to himself, his gaze wandering out, seeking an escape.

His escape came unexpectedly.

Gary's sharp eyes caught a glimpse of movement in the tall grass beside the road. "Amanda, stop the car!"

The car screeched to a halt, and without hesitation, Gary leaped over the car door and dashed into the tall grass.

The girls, startled by the sudden stop, peered out to see Gary approach an injured Nidoran. The Pokémon, a quadrupedal, sky-blue mammal with dark-blue patches, flared her poison spikes defensively. Her red eyes were wary, and one of her back legs was bleeding profusely.

Gary cautiously raised his hands to show he meant no harm and motioned to the girls to toss him a water bottle. Catching it smoothly, he then walked over to a nearby tree, where he plucked some leaves. Crouching beside the wounded Nidoran, he spoke gently, "These leaves have healing properties. I'm going to use them on your wound."

He waited, giving the Nidoran a moment to understand his intentions. When she nodded slightly, a small signal of trust, Gary proceeded with care. He carefully washed the wound with water to clean out any dirt and debris. Then, he squeezed the leaves, pressing them to release their medicinal fluid, and gently applied it to the injury. Tearing a strip from his shirt, he fashioned a makeshift bandage, securing it around the leg to keep the herbal remedy in place.

As he worked, the tension in the car evaporated.

"Go Gary, Go, Go."

Gary, however, remained intensely focused on the task at hand.

After ensuring the Nidoran was properly tended, Gary turned to head back to the car, but a soft rustling from the tall grass caught his attention. Turning around, he noticed the Nidorina hesitantly following him. Gary crouched down to her level, a gentle smile spreading across his face. "Do you want to join me?" The Pokémon nodded, her spiky hair bristling gently.

Encouraged by her response, Gary pulled out a PokéBall and tossed it gently. The ball clicked shut after a few suspenseful shakes, signaling a successful capture. Gary now had his first Pokémon.

As he climbed back into the car, every eye was on him. Gary settled into his seat, trying to appear nonchalant. "What?"

"Totally rad skills, Gary! You handled that like a boss," Amanda said with a wink. The other girls chimed in with their compliments, praising his quick thinking and kindness.

"Of course, I am The Great Gary Oak after all." However, his cheeks flushed a soft pink under their gaze.

The girls giggled, seeing right through his bravado.

"Come on, let's make it to Pewter City before nightfall."

After a restful night at the Pewter City Pokémon Center, where Gary's newly captured Nidoran received a thorough check-up from Nurse Joy, the group gathered around the breakfast table to plan their day.

"So, what are you all going to do today?" Gary asked casually as he nibbled on his breakfast, his eyes scanning a to-do list he'd laid out next to his plate.

"I want to check out the Pewter City Museum, that would be so cool. Want to join us?"

"You all have fun, I am going to train my Pokémon and then go to Mt. Moon to catch some Pokémon to fight against the gym leader."

Gary had strategically planned his journey, having applied for the league a week prior. His license was due to arrive soon. His eyes were set on capturing specific Pokémon at Mt. Moon, namely Sandshrew, Clefairy, and Paras, which he believed would complement his team well against Brock's rock-type Pokémon.

Two days of intensive training and engaging in practice battles with other trainers had sharpened both Gary's skills and his Pokémon's abilities. With his team better prepared and feeling confident, Gary finally found himself ready to face his first major challenge: a battle against Brock.

"Let's begin the Pewter City Showdown!"

Brock released his Geodude, and almost instantly, a swirling sandstorm enveloped the arena, whipped up by Geodude's Sand Veil ability.

Gary responded by sending out his Paras, an orange, insect-like Pokémon with a body that seemed almost too delicate for the harsh environment it now faced. As Paras entered the battlefield, it immediately released a flurry of spores, capitalizing on its Effect Spore ability. The spores dispersed into the sandstorm, creating a dangerous, swirling mix of particles.

"Roll out!" Brock commanded, aiming to keep Geodude moving fast enough to avoid inhaling the potentially debilitating spores.

"Absorb!" The mushrooms on Paras's back glowed a vivid green as it would instantly draw energy from Geodude the moment contact was made.

"To the right!" Brock shouted, adjusting Geodude's trajectory toward a slanted rock. The rock type Pokémon rolled up the stone, gaining altitude and momentum. As it reached the peak, Geodude's form shifted, revealing its Fire Punch.

Geodude descended like a meteor toward Paras.

The fire type energy of the Fire Punch clashed with the green aura of Absorb. The intense heat and force of the impact burned through the energy-sapping move, delivering a devastating blow to Paras.

The combination of gravity enhancing the impact and the fiery energy made the punch critically powerful.

Amanda and the other girls gasped in horror as Geodude's powerful punch bent Paras's entire body, the bug-type Pokémon squirming in agony before slamming down onto the ground, defeated.

Gary tried to steady his nerves.

"No big deal, I still have five more Pokémon," he muttered to himself, though doubt crept into his thoughts as he surveyed the sandstorm swirling with spores.

His initial strategy had backfired spectacularly.

"Please continue the battle or you'll be penalized for trying to take advantage of the move dissipating," announced Forrest, the referee, blowing his whistle.

Gary's heart raced as he inquired about the penalty.

"Brock will be allowed to use a free move."

Nodding, Gary realized he couldn't afford to give Brock such an advantage. He noticed Geodude continuing its Rollout, cleverly using the motion to avoid inhaling the spores.

An idea sparked in Gary's mind.

"Sandshrew, use Rollout!"

A flash of red light cut through the sandstorm as Gary's Sandshrew appeared. The Pokémon's brick-patterned yellow hide, tough and dry, made it well-suited for such an environment. Its blue eyes focused intently on the opponent as it curled into a ball and started rolling, picking up speed.

Geodude and Sandshrew smashed into each other with great force, their moves equally matched at first. The clash sent echoes of thuds around the arena, the impact visible even through the thick sandstorm.

"Reverse the spin!"

Responding to Gary's command, Sandshrew suddenly changed the direction of its roll. This unexpected maneuver caught Geodude off guard, disrupting its rhythm.

Sandshrew's Sand Rush ability kicked in, boosting its speed significantly. With increased velocity, Sandshrew slammed into Geodude from the side, its reversed spin adding an extra layer of force to the attack.

As Brock commanded his Geodude to execute Rock Tomb, multiple boulders formed above the Pokémon and were swiftly hurled towards the reversing Sandshrew. "Move forward!" Gary yelled, recognizing the imminent danger of the rock barrage. However, he soon realized his instruction had played into Brock's hands. The reversal of the Rollout to move forward caused Sandshrew to slow down, making it an easier target for Brock's strategy, trapping the mouse Pokémon.

"Rock Polish!"

"Fury Attack!" Gary countered in desperation. Sandshrew, breaking free from the initial trap, slashed furiously through the remnants of the Rock Tomb. Its sharp claws tore apart the boulders, but this victory was short-lived.

"Poison Point!"

Unfortunately, the swirling sandstorm carried the spores released earlier, which now worked against Sandshrew, paralyzing it mid-assault. The timing couldn't have been worse. Geodude, utilizing its increased speed from Rock Polish, dodged the attack and countered with an accelerated Rollout, smashing Sandshrew back into a large rock, trapping it.

Gary's heart raced as he watched his Pokémon pinned and vulnerable, the relentless Rollout from Geodude about to deliver what could be a final blow. Panic gripped him, but then, an idea flashed through his mind. "Water Pulse!" he called out, grasping at the one move that might disrupt the field.

Although paralyzed, Sandshrew managed to execute Water Pulse. From its awkward position, half-crushed against the rock, Sandshrew's mouth was luckily angled upwards. The pulse of water shot out, striking the swirling sandstorm above. The impact of the Water Pulse introduced a sudden burst of moisture into the dry, sandy environment.

After Sandshrew was knocked out, Gary called upon Nidoran, sending her into the slightly muddy terrain.

"Poison Sting!"

Nidoran's horn glowed ominously as she released dozens of needle-like projections aimed directly at Geodude.

"To the right!" Brock countered swiftly. Geodude hovered towards a nearby rock, using it as a shield from the incoming poison attack.

"Fire Punch!" Brock commanded as Geodude moved out from its cover.

"Skull Bash!" Gary reacted instantly. Nidoran's body was enveloped in a white orb with streaks swirling around her. She charged, her head colliding powerfully with Geodude's fiery fist. The impact was explosive, the force sending flames back into Geodude's face and hurling the rock type backward.

"Rock Tomb!"

But just as Geodude prepared to execute it, a purple aura enveloped the Pokémon, signaling it had been poisoned.

"Poison Sting again!" Gary seized the moment. Nidoran complied, bombarding Geodude with more needles. The poison took its toll, and Geodude finally collapsed, unable to continue.

"One down, one to go."

"Well then, let's see how you deal with him," Brock said with a stern look, releasing his next Pokémon—Onix.

As the massive rock snake Pokémon emerged, both Nidoran and Gary felt a jolt of fear.

"Poison Sting!"

"Double Team!" Brock's command echoed in the arena, and suddenly, three Onixes appeared, surrounding Nidoran. The intimidation was too much; she froze, unable to launch her attack.

"Snap out of it, they're fake!" Gary tried to encourage Nidoran, but his voice was drowned out by the imminent threat.

"Onix, Rock Slide!" Brock ordered. Rocks began to cascade towards Nidoran like a relentless force of nature.

Facing the overwhelming attack, Nidoran seemed resigned to her fate, until she heard Gary's voice pierce through the chaos, "Don't accept this, fight back!"

Fight back? The notion sparked a surge of defiance in Nidoran. Despite the rocks piling over her, she remembered her trainer's belief in her.

The rock tomb began to fracture, and a brilliant light of evolution captivated everyone in the arena.

When the light subsided, a newly evolved Nidorina stood where Nidoran had been. This impressive Pokémon maintained her sky-blue coloration, with dark-blue patches accentuating her powerful form. Her red eyes seemed fiercer, and the large poison spikes along her back were more pronounced, now retractable depending on her environment or activities. Her paws, each ending in three sharp claws, supported her formidable, thickened hind legs, allowing her to stand imposingly on them.

Forrest quickly raised a blue flag.

This signaled that, due to the evolution during battle, Gary was permitted to change one of his Pokémon's moves—an allowance made because new moves following evolution were instinctual. Such changes couldn't be held against a trainer as they were natural progressions in a Pokémon's capabilities.

Gary looked at his Pokédex, confirming that Nidoqueen had gained the ability Hustle, which traded accuracy for increased power, and had learned Double Kick. Weighing his options quickly, Gary made his decision to capitalize on this new development.

"Return!"

Gary took a deep breath, steadying himself. "Squirtle, it's our turn now. Let's show them our power!"

Squirtle emerged from its PokéBall, assuming a crouching stance, undaunted by the towering presence of Onix. The little turtle Pokémon was ready.

"Now!" Brock took on a cross-armed pose.

As Onix unleashed its Hidden Power: Electric, the battlefield transformed into a scene of chaos and crackling energy. Gary watched, his heart sinking, as Squirtle was enveloped in a harsh, unforgiving light, the electric wave overwhelming him. The little Pokémon staggered, collapsing to one knee under the force of the attack, struggling to remain upright.

A faint blue aura began to shimmer around Squirtle, signaling the activation of his ability, Torrent, which boosted the power of his water-type moves in critical situations.

Yet, even with this slight advantage, the situation seemed dire. Squirtle's pained cry echoed in Gary's ears.

Frozen in place, Gary felt the weight of their dire situation. His bold strategy seemed to have backfired spectacularly. His palms were sweaty, his heart raced, and doubts swirled in his mind, gnawing at his resolve. Were they truly outmatched?

Was continuing the battle just prolonging the inevitable?

Could he really put his Pokémon through more of this brutal confrontation, knowing the odds were not in their favor?

Just as despair threatened to take hold, a familiar voice pierced through his turmoil.

"Gary, Gary, he's our man. If he can't do it, no one can! Go...Gary!"

He turned to see Amanda and the other girls on their feet, cheering with genuine enthusiasm. This wasn't just for show; they were genuinely rooting for him.

Gary's gaze then shifted back to Squirtle, who, despite the severe hit, still displayed an ironic fiery determination in his eyes. Seeing his Pokémon's resolve stirred something within Gary.

If Squirtle wasn't ready to give up, then neither was I. Together, they would fight back with everything they had.

Brock couldn't hide his surprise, a hint of envy coloring his tone. "Wow, how did you get those pretty ladies to cheer for you?"

Gary nonchalantly brushed his hair back with his hand.

"Because I am the Great Gary Oak."

Brock chuckled, acknowledging Gary's charismatic response.

"Well then, let's continue."

"Mud Shot!"

With precision, Squirtle launched a hefty ball of mud from its mouth, aiming directly at the towering Onix.

Brock quickly countered, "Double Team!" Onix's form blurred, multiplying into several images.

However, Gary was quick on his feet.

"Fake!"

Luckily, Squirtle trusted his trainer's judgment.

"Use Rapid Spin!" Gary followed up immediately. Squirtle retracted into its shell and started spinning rapidly, transforming into a high-speed disc that cut through the air towards Onix.

"Hidden Power: Electric!"

"Water Gun!"

As Squirtle, empowered by his Torrent ability, launched his attack. A high-pressure torrent of water erupted from his shell, striking Onix with such force that it resembled a raging river unleashed upon the rock snake.

The impact of the Water Gun did considerable damage to Onix, but Brock's Hidden Power: Electric was already unleashed.

Squirtle, smiling, closed his eyes and braced himself as he flew straight into the wave of electricity. The electric attack enveloped him, and despite his valiant effort, the overwhelming power of the attack was too much.

Squirtle was knocked out, his little body tumbling back onto the muddy ground, his energy spent.

"Squirtle, you did great," Gary whispered.

"Let's show them the power of a real rock type!" Gary declared, his voice ringing with confidence as he released his Geodude into the arena.

The small rock Pokémon landed with a thud, poised and ready for battle.

Gary's choice had been limited; without a Clefairy to catch on Mt Moon, Geodude was his next best option.

"Bind!" Brock commanded sharply. Onix, responding instantly, coiled around Geodude like a massive serpent entrapping its prey.

"Defense Curl!" Gary countered quickly, instructing Geodude to curl up into a defensive ball, minimizing the impact of the constricting Bind.

Seizing the moment, Gary shouted, "Dynamic Punch!"

The command took Brock by surprise; a Dynamic Punch was an Egg move, suggesting that Gary's Geodude was no ordinary catch. The small rock Pokémon uncurled just enough to slip out of Onix's grasp and lashed out, its fist glowing as it struck Onix's tail with tremendous force.

Onix roared in pain, the impact reverberating through the arena as a greenish aura surrounded it, indicating the activation of its Leftovers item, which began to slowly heal it. Gary swallowed hard.

How is this a Grade 1 Gym battle?!

"Roll out!" Gary continued, pushing his advantage. Brock knew the stakes; having used Defense Curl, Geodude's Rollout would pack a more powerful punch—if it hit.

"Double Team!" Brock countered swiftly. Onix blurred, creating multiple images of itself, confusing the trajectory of Geodude's attack. The first Rollout passed harmlessly through a decoy.

"Dynamic punch to the right!" Gary tried again, his eyes darting to catch any hint of the real Onix among the illusions. Brock had a faint smirk playing on his lips as he watched Geodude's fist swing through empty air which Gary was intensely watching.

"Rock Polish!"

"Return!" Gary reacted immediately, recalling Geodude as Onix was busy polishing its rocky form. Without missing a beat, he threw another PokéBall.

"Nidorina, Double Kick!"

Nidorina emerged with hind legs glowing, leaping toward the still-glowing Onix. She delivered two powerful, swift kicks. The impact was intensified by her Hustle ability, increasing the power of her attack at the cost of accuracy.

This time, however, she didn't miss.

Onix roared before it collapsed, defeated and unable to continue.

Gary's legs buckled from the tension and relief, sending him to the ground, breathing heavily.

They had done it.

They had won.

As the car meandered through the scenic route toward Mt. Moon, Gary brooded over his finances. The payment to Nobunaga had significantly lightened his wallet, but fairness demanded it, and he had asked enough questions to satisfy himself of the samurai's honesty. Sipping his juice, he attempted to distract himself by sparking a conversation about Ash.

"Hey, how do you think Ash would do against Brock?"

"Dunno," the girls responded noncommittally, their attention divided between the conversation and the passing scenery.

"Well, I think he'll get easily defeated. He caught a Rattata," Gary chuckled dismissively. "That's the only thing he can catch, bottom of the barrel Pokémon."

The girls sweatdropped at Gary's words. They were overly too mean for their liking, but they didn't comment as the car approached the rugged terrain near Mt. Moon. The road became increasingly uneven, and shadows from the towering cliffs flickered across the car's path.

As they moved through the public tunnel, Amanda asked, "Gary, aren't you going to try and catch a Clefairy?"

As the car wound its way toward Mt. Moon, an abrupt and terrifying incident shattered the calm. Without warning, something massive smashed into the hood of the car, causing a catastrophic impact. The collision was so forceful it seemed as though a boulder had plummeted from the sky directly onto them.

The hood crumpled under the immense weight, the sound of tearing metal deafening. Gary and the girls were thrown violently from their seats. Seatbelts failed to hold against the brutal force, snapping as the occupants were ejected through the shattered windows. The world outside turned into a blur of spinning scenery, the ground coming up fast to meet them.

Gary felt a searing pain as he hit the ground, rolling several times across the rough, gravelly roadside. His body screamed in protest, each bump and scrape imprinting on his skin. Beside him, the girls landed with thuds and cries of pain, their bodies tumbling awkwardly across the terrain.

As the dust settled and the sound of the wrecked car ticking in its damaged state filled the air, Gary groaned, trying to orient himself. His vision blurred, he could make out the figures of the girls nearby, some struggling to sit up, others lying still.

"Is everyone... okay?" His voice was weak, barely a whisper, as he fought the sharp pain radiating through his body. Slowly, painfully, the girls responded. Moans and soft cries answered him; it was clear that injuries were varied among them. Amanda seemed to have borne the brunt of it, with a visible gash on her forehead and her arm at an unnatural angle.

Laughter and chuckles emerged from the encroaching darkness as Gary struggled to his feet, his breathing heavy and labored. The cause of the crash, a Rhyhorn, stood menacingly nearby, surrounded by a group of Team Rocket grunts who slowly closed in. Gary's heart raced as he processed the imminent threat, adrenaline coursing through his veins despite his injuries.

Without hesitation, Gary released all his Pokémon, his voice firm despite his physical pain.

"Protect us!"

His Pokémon, sensing the urgency and their trainer's distress, sprang into action fiercely. In a blur of motion and battle cries, they engaged the grunts' Pokémon.

Within minutes, the majority of the grunts were defeated, their Pokémon unable to match the ferocity of Gary's team.

As Gary leaned against the wrecked car, trying to catch his breath, a slow clap echoed from the shadows, sending a chill down his spine. Squinting into the darkness, he saw a figure stepping forward—Arianna approached with a cold smile.

"Impressively done, so brat, do you have an Eevee on you?"

"What?"

He saw a flicker of disappointment cross Arianna's face at his response.

"Shame, I was hoping for it to end quickly." Arianna snapped her fingers, and at her command, a Vileplume appeared, unleashing a Petal Blizzard. Hundreds of sharp, pink petals swirled into a deadly blizzard, each one slicing through the air with lethal precision.

Gary's Pokémon were quickly overwhelmed. In an instant, they fell, unable to withstand the barrage. Gary could only watch in horror as the petals advanced toward him.

Pain erupted across Gary's body as the petals struck him. Each hit was like a sting, followed by a searing burn that spread rapidly. His vision blurred, and darkness crept into the edges of his sight, his body weakening under the onslaught.

The last thing Gary saw before succumbing to unconsciousness was the frightened faces of the girls, their screams muffled as grunts held them captive.

"Don't worry, you'll be at least alive once we get our Eevee," she said coldly, delivering a final kick to Gary's head, plunging him into darkness.

Gary's eyelids fluttered open, and immediately, he regretted it. The harsh, sterile white lights of the hospital stabbed at his senses. He blinked rapidly, his vision blurry, trying to make sense of where he was. The room was cold, the kind of cold that seeped into his bones. The constant beep of the heart monitor kept pace with the pounding in his head.

Tubes and IV lines snaked out of his arms, tying him down to the bed like a prisoner.

"Where... am I?" His voice barely made it out, a hoarse whisper that scraped against his dry throat. He tried to piece together how he ended up here, but it was like grasping at smoke.

"In the ER of Pewter City hospital. Today is the second of July, and it is nine in the morning," a voice answered, deep and familiar. It was soothing, but there was a rasp to it, something heavy in the tone.

"How long was I... asleep?" The words felt like they were stuck in his throat.

"That doesn't matter, just rest, my boy," the voice said gently.

"Is that so?"

"Yes."

Gary didn't even bother trying to figure out who it was yet. His mind was still foggy, and every time he tried to think, his head throbbed in protest. He closed his eyes again, trying to shake off the last bits of sleep clinging to him.

"I'm so thirsty," he croaked. His throat felt like sandpaper, dry and cracked.

Suddenly, a straw was pushed against his lips. He didn't even question it—just drank. The cool, pure water flowed down his throat, soothing the dryness. He drank greedily until he was satisfied and pushed the glass away. Slowly, he turned his head toward the person who'd been sitting with him.

"Gramps?" Gary croaked, his voice filled with surprise. His eyes widened when he saw him, sitting there like a solid, unmovable presence. He couldn't hold back the sudden fit of coughing that followed, his throat protesting against the effort.

"Yes, my boy. How are you feeling?" his grandfather asked, his voice calm but full of concern.

Gary didn't answer right away. He was still trying to process everything. He was alive. He was back in Pewter City. He wasn't stuck in that hell anymore. Relief hit him so hard it was almost overwhelming. He felt tears sting his eyes, and before he knew it, they were slipping down his face.

He let out a choked laugh, the sound halfway between a sob and a gasp. He hadn't realized how terrified he'd been, how close he came to losing everything—his home, his family, his life. The weight of that fear crashed over him all at once, and his body shook with the force of it.

Strong arms wrapped around him, pulling him into a hug. Gramps. He leaned into him, feeling the warmth and safety of his embrace. He hadn't realized how much he'd needed this. How much he'd missed it. He didn't think he'd ever get to feel it again.

A week in that hell, caged like an animal... It had taken a toll on him in ways he didn't even want to think about. He hadn't allowed himself to fully understand how scared he'd been. Terrified, actually. He'd been so close to never seeing Pallet Town again, never feeling this—Gramps' arms around him, Daisy's teasing banter, even the dumb rivalry with Ash. He had almost lost it all.

He cried quietly, letting it out as much as he could, still clinging to his grandfather. His grandfather kept whispering soothing words in his ear. "You're back and safe, Gary. You're safe now."

Gary nodded into his grandfather's robes, still too overwhelmed to speak. "I'm fine," he mumbled, trying to convince himself as much as his grandfather. Slowly, he pulled away, looking up into his weathered face. "I'm fine," he repeated, swallowing thickly, but the words felt hollow, empty.

Professor Oak's eyes softened as he cupped Gary's cheek with his hand, his thumb brushing away a stray tear. "You're not fine, but I know you'll surmount it," he said softly, locking his gaze with his grandson. "Just don't try to win this fight alone. Can you promise me that?"

Gary nodded, rubbing his cheek against his grandfather's hand like he was a little kid again, craving that comfort. "I promise, Gramps," he whispered, feeling the weight of his own words settle inside him.

Professor Oak nodded, pulling him into another hug. "Good. Coming this close to both sides of death is a harrowing experience."

Gary held onto him, marveling at the strength his grandfather still had in his old arms. He felt so solid, so warm, like nothing could ever break him. He could hear his grandfather's heart beating steadily, reassuring him that they were still here, still alive.

"You've ever been... this close?" Gary asked, his voice quiet, almost afraid to know the answer.

"Yes," Professor Oak said, his tone somber. "During the first Great War in Johto. Your grandmother and I fled that dictatorship."

Gary blinked, trying to wrap his head around that. "Wait, the Oak family is from Johto?"

"Of course," his grandfather said with a small smile. "I'll tell you all about it once you're better."

Gary wanted to ask more, to understand more, but the words caught in his throat. "How am I going to go back?" he whispered instead, the question hanging in the air between them like a heavy weight. He wasn't even sure what he meant by it—back to being a trainer, back to normal, back to... himself.

Professor Oak looked tired, his eyes full of understanding and sympathy. "That's a question only you can answer, Gary," he said, his voice soft. "But I'm certain the answer is here." He tapped his finger against Gary's chest, just above his heart.

Gary looked down, his thoughts swirling in a storm of confusion. Why had he become a Pokémon trainer? Was it really worth giving up his life for? Was it selfish to want out now? Was it cowardly to be afraid?

"You don't have to answer it now," Professor Oak said gently. "But it might help to talk. The hospital has specialists, or you can talk to those who care about you. You don't have to face this alone."

Gary nodded slowly, unsure of what to say.

"Is Dad... here?" Gary asked, his voice barely a whisper. He wasn't even sure why he asked, but part of him needed to know.

Professor Oak looked away, shame flickering across his face for just a moment. Gary's heart sank.

"Gramps... can you tell me what happened to Dad? Why did he abandon us?" Gary asked, his voice trembling. The words felt like they'd been waiting for years to be spoken.

Professor Oak struggled with the answer, his lips pressing into a thin line. "Do you know how your mother died?"

Gary frowned, taken aback. "Daisy said she died after giving birth to me."

Professor Oak sighed, the weight of years settling into his expression. "The truth is... your mother didn't die. She was murdered."

The words hit Gary like a sledgehammer. "Murdered? By who?"

Professor Oak hesitated, the silence stretching unbearably long. "Gramps, tell me the truth."

He took a deep breath, and the name he spoke felt like a stone dropping into the stillness of the room. "Red."

"Ash's father... killed my mother?"

"No, no, no," Professor Oak quickly corrected. "Red isn't Ash's father... not technically."

Gary stared at his grandfather, the weight of everything crashing down on him. His world was spinning out of control. Ash's father. His own mother's death. His father's disappearance. How did it all connect? And why did it feel like it was all Ash's fault? The anger bubbled up inside him, uncontrollable, his fists clenched so tightly his knuckles turned white. Just as he was about to give in to the rage, he felt a warm, firm hand on his shoulder.

He looked up, meeting Gramps' eyes. Oak was shaking his head, a silent, understanding gesture that somehow cut through the chaos in Gary's mind.

"What?" Gary croaked, his voice breaking from the storm of emotions swirling inside him.

"Gary, don't blame Ash for this," Oak said, his voice steady, yet carrying the weight of years of wisdom. "Ash didn't cause this."

Ash's father killed my mother and if that family didn't exist then mom would've… Gary's mind screamed the accusation. But before he could finish, Oak cut him off, his voice louder than Gary had ever heard it.

"Gary!"

The shout jolted Gary, his heart skipping a beat. Gramps never yelled. Never. His chest tightened with confusion and hurt. Why was Gramps defending Ash's family? After everything?

"Why are you taking his side?"

Oak's face softened, his sternness melting into something gentler. Without a word, he pulled Gary into a hug. The embrace was warm, familiar, but it didn't take away the storm raging inside him.

"Gary," Oak said quietly, his voice a low, calming murmur. "I know you're scared. And I know you're confused. But blaming someone who's innocent… that's not the answer."

Gary's throat tightened. He wanted to argue, to scream that it was Ash's fault, that everything would be different if it weren't for him and his father. But the words wouldn't come. All that escaped was a whisper. "But… Mom?"

Oak sighed, his hand resting gently on the back of Gary's head, like he used to when Gary was younger, back when the world was simple. "Remember this, Gary: the son is not responsible for the sins of the father. You know Ash better than anyone. In your heart, can you truly blame your friend for something he had no part in? For the actions of a man he's barely even met?"

The words hit Gary like a punch to the gut. He wanted to deny it, to hold onto the anger, but it was slipping away, leaving only the raw ache of grief and confusion. He shook his head slowly, tears blurring his vision. "No… I can't."

Before he could say more, a knock on the door snapped him out of his daze. The sound felt almost distant, as if it came from another world. The door creaked open, and there stood Daisy and… Ash. Gary's heart skipped a beat, his chest tightening all over again. Ash was holding a basket filled with berries, his face awkward, uncertain, like he didn't know how to be here, how to face Gary.

"You look… alive," Ash mumbled, his voice uncertain and clumsy.

"Thanks," Gary replied, the surprise evident in his voice. Of all people, Ash was the last person he expected to show up. Not after everything between them.

"I'll just… leave these here," Ash said awkwardly, setting the basket down on the table. He glanced at Gary, his eyes full of something—maybe guilt, maybe concern, but Gary couldn't quite read it.

"You should talk to your family," Ash said quietly, his voice almost too soft for Gary to hear.

Oak's words echoed in Gary's mind. Ash is your friend… But that wasn't enough anymore. Correction, Gramps… Gary thought, his heart heavy. He was my best friend.

Gary swallowed hard, feeling the tears welling up again. I need to make this right.

"Ash, I'm sorry," Gary blurted out.

"For what?" Ash turned, his expression genuinely puzzled.

"For breaking that PokéBall," Gary clarified, the memory coming back to him. That stupid fight they had when they were kids, over an old PokéBall they fished out of a lake.

Ash blinked, and then shrugged. "Sure, I forgive you. It's just an old PokéBall."

Gary swallowed hard, struggling to keep his emotions in check. "I still have the other half if you want it."

"Nah, keep it," Ash said, smiling slightly. "I'll get it back after I beat you in the league."

A small smirk tugged at Gary's lips. "Then forget about ever getting that other half," he shot back.

"Sure," Ash snorted, then turned to Daisy, his face suddenly turning red. "Uh, Daisy, do you think I could get your number? You know, to keep updated about Gary and all."

Gary stared at Ash, his jaw dropping slightly. Was Ash... hitting on his sister?

He glanced at his grandfather, who looked equally stunned.

What the hell? When did Ash get a crush on Daisy?