POKEMON : THE WAY OF PERCEPTION

Backstage at the Cerulean Gym, Sakura, Violet, and Lily finally relaxed after their water ballet performance. As the cheers from the audience faded, a collective sigh of relief escaped them.

"Success…" Sakura said softly, her voice tinged with exhaustion. Performing such an intricate routine, even for ten minutes, was no easy feat.

Though their performance was beautiful, it had taken years of grueling practice to reach this level. In the beginning, their acts barely lasted five minutes and lacked finesse. Only through relentless training had they been able to captivate their audience today.

"And now comes the Gym Challenge…" Sakura muttered, her face darkening. Unlike performing, facing challengers as Gym Leaders was something she dreaded.

Violet and Lily shared her unease. The joy of their performance often gave way to the harsh reality of battles they could not win. Yet, they had no choice. If they wanted to keep the Cerulean Gym afloat, they had to fulfill their duties as Gym Leaders, even if it meant enduring further humiliation.

"Let's get ready," Sakura said, breaking the heavy silence. She forced a smile and gestured for her sisters to follow her.

Outside the Hall

In the battle hall, the crowd dispersed after the performance. Many Trainers still refused to acknowledge the talents of Sakura and her sisters, leaving while muttering insults. Yet, some audience members defended the sisters, praising their dedication and skill.

Despite this support, the negative voices were louder, spreading criticism online and tarnishing the Cerulean Gym's reputation further.

Back in the reception hall, Ash, Misty, and Brock waited for their turn to challenge the gym. Around them, other Trainers sat in thoughtful silence.

One Trainer, unable to bear the guilt, turned to Misty. "I'm sorry," he said quietly, his voice heavy with regret.

Misty blinked in surprise. "What?"

"I'm sorry for the way we've treated your sisters," the Trainer explained. His apology wasn't just for Misty but for Sakura, Violet, and Lily as well.

His words seemed to resonate with the other Trainers. One by one, they began to murmur apologies, some bowing their heads in shame.

Misty's lips curved into a small smile. She was touched that her sisters' performance had softened the hearts of even a few people. Still, she knew this wouldn't be enough to repair their tarnished reputation.

Weakness in this world, Misty thought bitterly, was an unforgivable sin.

She clenched her fists tightly, determination burning in her eyes. I'll grow stronger. I'll become a Trainer who can restore the Cerulean Gym's glory. One day, people will admire the gym my sisters worked so hard to preserve.

Challenges Begin

Half an hour later, the announcement for the Gym Challenge echoed through the hall. The Trainers who had registered began their battles.

Each challenger spent less than ten minutes in the battle hall before emerging with the Cascade Badge—a small, water-drop-shaped token.

Soon, it was Ash's turn. He stood up with Pikachu perched on his shoulder, while Brock and Misty followed him toward the battle hall.

Inside the Battle Hall

"Thank you for the battle," a Trainer said, bowing politely as he accepted his Badge from Sakura. Then he turned and left without another word.

Sakura watched him go, her brows furrowed in confusion. "Is it just me, or is something strange about today?" she asked her sisters.

"You're not imagining it," Violet replied. "None of today's challengers have taunted us. They've been… respectful."

Lily nodded in agreement. "It's so different from before. I'm not used to it."

Even the staff members were puzzled. They had grown accustomed to challengers mocking the sisters after every battle, yet today was the complete opposite.

"Next up is a new Trainer," one of the staff members announced. "They've recently started their journey but seem to have extraordinary potential."

"A rookie Trainer with extraordinary potential?" Sakura repeated, surprised. The thought of facing another prodigy Trainer made her nervous. Memories of past humiliations surfaced in her mind, making her dread what was to come.

As the hall's doors opened, the sisters braced themselves. But when they saw who entered, their eyes widened in shock.

"Misty?!" Sakura gasped.

Misty walked in with Ash and Brock by her side, her expression a mix of happiness and apprehension.

"Sakura, Violet, Lily…" Misty said softly. "It's been a long time."

The three sisters stared at her in disbelief. "Why are you here?" Violet asked. "Weren't you traveling and training to become a Water-type Pokémon Master?"

"It's a long story," Misty replied with a small smile.

Sakura's usual teasing grin returned as she crossed her arms. "What? You're back already? Don't tell me you gave up on becoming a Pokémon Master!"

Misty rolled her eyes but couldn't suppress her own smile. "Not a chance, Sakura."

The sisters laughed, their earlier worries momentarily forgotten. Though Misty's unexpected return had taken them by surprise, they couldn't hide their happiness at seeing her again.

The Battle Begins

As the reunion settled, Ash stepped forward, his eyes gleaming with determination. "I'm here to challenge the Cerulean Gym!"

Sakura, Violet, and Lily exchanged glances before taking their positions. Though their skills in battle were limited, they would give it their all.

"Let's see how strong you've gotten, Ash!" Sakura said, her voice filled with newfound confidence.

With the stage set, the battle began.

------------------------------------

Visit our Patreon for more:

patreon.com/Johnwick007