Chapter 13: You Have Arrived, Challenger

Pewter City, a stone town extending to the foot of a massive rocky mountain, gets its name from the sturdy, gray-black color reminiscent of solid rock.

Dylan had arrived in this stone city.

"Indeed, this is the in-game version of Pewter City, not like the real one at all," Dylan muttered to himself as he entered the city and looked around. Though he had just stepped in and couldn't see the deeper parts of the city, he was already sure that this place differed from the real Pewter City.

From his memory, he had visited Pewter City before since Rota Town was not far from it. Dylan was born in Viridian Forest and later moved to Rota Street, so this simulated world was indeed created by the system, mimicking the Pokémon game.

Dylan's eyes caught sight of a bulletin board nearby.

Pewter City Bulletin Board:

Pokémon Gym: Pewter Gym

Gym Leader: Brock

Description: A man as strong as rock.

Dylan couldn't help but chuckle at the bulletin. Being highlighted on the city's bulletin board was quite something. He thought about asking Eileen to make one for Rota Street, so all visitors would know about the Rota Gym.

Perfect!

Using the map, Dylan made his way to the Pewter Gym, easily recognizable by its rock-like roof. As he walked inside, he noticed the interior was also rock-themed, with large stones neatly placed around. At the deepest part of the gym stood a bronze-skinned young man with arms crossed, resting with his eyes closed. This was Brock, the gym leader of Pewter Gym.

As Dylan approached, a camper boy in green clothes rushed over to challenge him, providing some easy experience points with his level 7 Geodude. Dylan gladly accepted.

"You have arrived, challenger," Brock said as Dylan reached him, his tone serious and voice steady. Brock, in the game, was a very professional and respected Pokémon Trainer.

"I am Brock, the Gym Leader of Pewter City."

"I have the tenacity of solid rock, and so do my Pokémon! Hard as stone and unyielding!"

"Yes, I use rock-type Pokémon! Minor attacks do nothing to them!"

Brock's voice was deep and solemn, his presence intimidating. Dylan listened intently, making mental notes. This was a professional gym leader speaking!

"For self-introductions, it's important to highlight your and your Pokémon's characteristics. It raises your credibility," Dylan thought. He always put a lot of thought into his battle introductions, like when he faced Gary before, but he felt it needed more polish.

"Haha, knowing you will lose, yet still challenging me? That's the spirit of a Pokémon Trainer!"

"Come on, then!" Brock said, stepping back and smiling confidently.

Impressive as Brock's presence was, it wasn't enough to challenge Dylan. "Breaking through defense with a strong attack... exceeded my expectations," Brock said, looking shocked after the battle.

"No, you're just too weak. An 11-level Geodude and a 12-level Onix? Seriously?" Dylan kept these thoughts to himself, maintaining a neutral expression.

"This Boulder Badge proves your victory. Take it," Brock said, handing Dylan the gray, rock-like badge.

"Thank you, it was a great match," Dylan replied politely, despite the battle being a clear sweep.

"I also have a gift for you. Take this Rock Slide TM," Brock said, handing over a TM.

"Truly, there are many strong trainers out there. I must work harder to become a great trainer!" Brock said, his face determined and his voice filled with resolve.

Dylan held his tongue. The in-game Brock was quite inspiring, but the real Brock...

Recalling the anime version of Brock, Dylan's expression turned strange as he left.

Outside the gym, Dylan released Sprigatito from its Poké Ball.

"Meow~" Sprigatito stretched and then began to glow white.

Yes, during the gym battle, Dylan had used Sprigatito, which had reached level 17. It was ready to evolve!

The white glow grew brighter as Sprigatito's form changed rapidly. Soon, the light dissipated, revealing a light green cat standing on two legs, curiously examining its new body. Unlike the cute Sprigatito, Floragato looked more fierce and cool.

'Beep~ Floragato, Grass-type, Grass Cat Pokémon.

Gender: Female

Level: 17Ability: OvergrowMoves: Quick Attack, Magical Leaf, Hone Claws, Bite, Leafage, Sucker Punch (Egg Move)

Description: Skillfully controls the vines hidden under its long fur and strikes enemies with hardened flower buds.'

"Nice, it's evolved."

"Meow~"

Dylan bent down to pat Floragato's head, feeling proud. Sprigatito was his first Pokémon to evolve.

Floragato purred contentedly, lifting its head proudly.

"Let's move on," Dylan said, walking with Floragato by his side towards the east of Pewter City.

Next, they needed to pass through Route 3 and Mount Moon to reach Cerulean City and challenge Misty. There were many trainers on Route 3, and Dylan defeated them all, gaining more experience.

By the time they reached Mount Moon, Floragato was level 19, and Goomy was level 18. However, as Dylan prepared to enter Mount Moon, the system prompt appeared.

'Simulation time has ended. Please exit.'

Already? Dylan was surprised but didn't resist and chose to exit.

His vision went black, and when he opened his eyes again, he saw his familiar ceiling.

"Back already."

Dylan rubbed his temples, feeling fine. He noticed the sunlight coming through the window.

"Meow~" A low meow came from beside him. Turning his head, he saw Floragato standing there.

It really did bring the growth from the simulation back to reality.

Dylan couldn't hide his grin. This was like having a cheat!

"Are you hungry? Let me freshen up, and we'll get breakfast," Dylan said, noting it was not even 8 AM.

"Meow~" Floragato's eyes turned into happy crescents.

(End of Chapter)