NOVEL NEXT Chapter 45: Chapter 45: The Eve of Battle
After putting away his numbered battle token, Ron learned from the Pewter Gym staff that his battle was scheduled for the morning two days from now.
To prepare as thoroughly as possible, Ron took the time to research Pewter Gym and its Gym Leader.
At this point, Brock was already the acting Gym Leader. Trainers were required to use two Pokémon in their challenge: the first was typically Geodude, followed by Onix.
Although the Pewter Gym often appeared underwhelming in the anime, in reality, every Gym is a critical pillar of the Pokémon League's power. The League would never allow a Gym to lack adequate staffing.
After all, expecting Brock to manage the Gym entirely on his own—recording challengers, repairing battlefields, maintaining his and his Pokémon's strength to face numerous trainers, all while caring for his siblings—was simply impossible.
Moreover, unlike the portrayal in the anime, Gym Trainers weren't as weak as they seemed. Most of the Pokémon they used against challengers were relatively inexperienced or in training.
In truth, Gym Trainers are akin to law enforcement, standing as one of the two primary forces protecting towns and cities. As the head of their respective Gyms, Gym Leaders possess at least Elite-level strength, with some nearing Champion-level capabilities.
Exceptional Gym Leaders, such as Koga—who later became an Elite Four member—are clear examples of this standard.
Additionally, Gym Leaders receive certain privileges, such as a portion of the town's industry tax revenue and priority consideration for Elite Four positions. These incentives motivate Gym Leaders to continually improve and draw more challengers.
Under such conditions, it's impossible for weak trainers to assume Gym Leader positions, regardless of their connections.
So while Brock might appear mild-mannered and harmless, his true strength far surpasses that of most trainers.
Of course, Ash doesn't count.
Ron had no certainty that he could consistently beat Ash and Pikachu—a duo capable of taking on Legendary Pokémon one day and losing to beginner trainers the next. This unpredictability made it even harder to gauge Brock's true potential.
Having stored his number safely, Ron decided to explore Pewter City.
Frankly, Pewter City didn't offer much in terms of attractions. Its most notable site was a museum, featuring historical relics, fossils, and airplane models.
Other than that, Pewter City was an ordinary town, situated at the foot of a massive rocky mountain.
Unless you were a fan of those specific exhibits, had to pass through Pewter City, or were a trainer like Ron, there weren't many reasons to visit.
After wandering aimlessly, a bored Ron returned to the Pokémon Center. At least here, he could battle other trainers to kill time.
Inside the Pokémon Center's battle arena, a sizable crowd had already gathered.
Knowing their Pokémon could be treated immediately if injured, trainers were enthusiastically battling on every available battlefield. Pokémon levels ranged from the teens to the twenties, with only a few elite-level battles scattered among the fields.
The trainers present included those preparing to challenge Pewter Gym as well as those who had failed and were gearing up for another attempt.
After observing for a while, Ron found an empty battlefield and stepped onto it.
With a flash of white light, his Nidoran appeared, waiting for a trainer with a Pokémon of similar strength to step up.
Thanks to the rarity of Nidoran, Ron quickly drew a challenger.
"My name is Phil. My Charmander is at level 13. Please, let's have a good match," Phil said nervously.
Another flash of light revealed a determined Charmander, its eyes brimming with fighting spirit as it faced Nidoran.
From Phil's tense demeanor, it was clear to Ron that this was a novice trainer.
Seeing this, Ron decided it was the perfect opportunity to show him the harshness of reality.
"Let's keep this friendly. Nidoran, use Poison Sting!"
By now, Ron's Nidoran had reached level 13 through previous battles and had learned Poison Sting.
Purple-tinted needles shot forward, heading straight for Charmander.
"Charmander, use Ember!"
Flames flared up, melting the Poison Stings and creating a safe zone for Charmander.
"Nidoran, Leer, then Double Kick!"
Before Phil could issue his next command, Ron took the initiative.
While the Poison Stings flew, Nidoran had charged forward, closing the gap to land a Leer.
Charmander's defense dropped, and its body began to stiffen.
"Don't give up, Charmander! Use Ember!"
Phil's encouraging words helped Charmander shake off some of its fear, reigniting its flames.
But Nidoran's speed proved superior. Its horn interrupted Charmander's Ember, followed by a quick Double Kick.
"That's it, Nidoran! Use Leer again, then follow up with another Double Kick!"
With Charmander's defense reduced and Nidoran's physical moves boosted by its Hustle ability, two rounds of attacks were enough to knock Charmander out.
Charmander only managed to use Ember once during the entire match.
"I lost. Please tell me your name," Phil said, recalling his Charmander to its Poké Ball, his tone tinged with both disappointment and determination.
Ron could see the unyielding spirit in Phil's eyes despite the loss.
"My name is Ron. Every trainer experiences defeat when they first start. I hope we can battle again once you've grown stronger."
Ron didn't mind encouraging a rookie who could maintain their fighting spirit even after a crushing defeat.
"You're Ron—the one who stopped the Pokémon riot!" Phil exclaimed, suddenly excited.
Hearing his name, Ron's first thought was whether his undercover identity had been exposed and if Phil was about to report him to claim the League's bounty.
Phil's wide-eyed enthusiasm made him look like a starving man who had just spotted a lamb.
"Yes, I'm Ron. I did help stop the Pokémon riot, but it wasn't just me. It was a team effort involving rangers and many trainers," Ron said, taking two subtle steps back.
"That doesn't matter! I can't believe I'm meeting you in person. Please, can I have your autograph?"
Phil's loud proclamation drew the attention of everyone nearby.
As the crowd turned their gaze toward Ron, some looked on with admiration, while others shared Phil's starstruck excitement.
Unsure of what was happening, Ron decided retreating was the best option.
Before the crowd could converge, Ron swiftly recalled his confused Nidoran and made a hasty exit.
At this moment, his priority was to get back to his room and figure out what was going on.
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