Chapter 15

WINTER

It's so cold and frozen

And every bricks of the walls are so close to falling apart

(So close to falling apart)

You never knew me

I'm on the edge of the world

Swimming on the undertow

- LANDMVRKS

I

Electricity crackled and surged throughout the decaying, empty pool, the air filled with the sharp scent of burning foliage. "Thunderbolt!" Brian's voice pierced the chaos, as if summoning every last ounce of energy within him. Ampharos, suspended in mid-air, transformed into a radiant yellow ball of electricity, its brilliance almost blinding to behold. With a ferocious determination, it unleashed a torrent of lightning that streaked towards Starmie and Misty, colliding with this cataclysmic power.

As the force holding Ampharos in the air dissipated, he plummeted towards the ground, landing with a thud and panting heavily. The red gem at the center of Starmie's core, once glowing brightly, began to flicker and dim until it finally went dark. Starmie collapsed backward, its once powerful form now motionless on the battlefield.

Misty's composure crumbled, and she began to stammer in disbelief, her voice seemed to constantly switch back between rage and sobbing. "No. No. No. This isn't fair! My pool was destroyed! This wasn't a fair fight." Her face contorted with anger and disappointment, as if she were throwing a tantrum like a child denied a cherished toy. But there was something terrifying about her eyes, which blazed with an unsettling mix of fury.. Her piercing gaze seemed to penetrate the very souls of those around her, demanding acknowledgement of her anger and grief. The intensity of her emotions was palpable, and the air seemed to grow heavy with the weight of her fury. Her fists clenched tightly, and her knuckles turned white with the force of her grip. As her eyes darted from the fallen Starmie to Brian and Ampharos, there was a sense of danger lurking beneath her rage, as if she were ready to lash out at anyone who dared challenge her or question her abilities.

Cutting into the tense atmosphere, Giovanni's steady clapping echoed through the gym, capturing everyone's attention. "Ha! That was a truly intense fight! Well done. I look forward to seeing you in Viridian," he announced as Brian recalled Ampharos and made his way up the ladder behind him. Meanwhile, Seth sat there, holding Vulpix and flanked by Primeape and Torterra. His face remained emotionless, not revealing anything as he stared at the ground, lost in thought.

"Seth, recall them. We'll hurry back to take better care of them," Brian suggested, placing a reassuring hand on Seth's shoulder. Seth simply nodded, obeying his friend's advice and standing up beside him.

"Misty, hand him the badge," Giovanni commanded coolly. She hesitated but dared not disobey, reluctantly handing the badge to Brian before storming off back up to the observation deck.

"Show me your badges," Giovanni instructed, directing his attention to Seth.

"Why?" Seth responded defiantly.

"Indulge me, please," Giovanni retorted in an almost emotionless tone, seemingly trying to conceal something. Seth brought out his badge case containing the three badges he had won. Giovanni picked up the Rainbow Badge from Erika. "What did you think of Celadon City?" Giovanni asked, his voice still monotone.

"It was fine. The casino was a lot of fun," Seth replied dryly, staring back at Giovanni with a blank expression.

"Hmm," Giovanni muttered, putting his hands in his pockets before walking away. Butch then approached Seth, holding out his hand, and an air of hostility began to rise as his hand was left suspended in the air for what felt like an eternity. Suddenly, Seth's anger erupted, and he grabbed Butch's beard, bringing his knee up into his face, causing blood to pour out of his nose. Seth continued to attack Butch relentlessly, punching him over and over until teeth began to fall back in his throat. Finally Seth brought his thumbs to Butch’s eyes, grinding them against his skull. All the while laughing uncontrollably as he unleashed his pent-up frustration.

"Well done," Butch managed to say, bringing Seth back to reality as he stood in front of him, his hand still outstretched. Seth's gaze bore into Butch, his anger and resentment steadily growing.

Sensing the escalating tension, Brian swiftly intervened, placing a firm hand on Seth's shoulder. "Come on, let's go," he urged, his voice laced with a mix of concern and urgency. Without another word, both Seth and Brian turned away from Butch and walked toward the exit, Vulpix cradled gently in Seth's arms.

"She did incredible," Brian remarked, the two of them ambling down the street of Cerulean City.

Seth's lips parted, his expression conveying uncertainty. "Yeah," he started, his voice hesitant as he struggled to put his thoughts into words.

Brian's reassuring smile radiated warmth. "We'll figure it out, Seth," he assured, his eyes showing genuine support. "You're not alone in this; you've got me and Emily."

Seth's gratitude was evident in his soft response. "Thank you."

II

Snowfall gracefully blanketed the area surrounding the Golden Tails Diner, casting a serene hush over the otherwise vacant street. Seth turned his attention to his bundled-up son, who appeared so layered in winter clothing that he resembled a marshmallow. "You've got Flapple, right?" Seth inquired, his voice laced with a hint of concern.

"Yup," his son replied, his face peeking out from beneath an oversized gray skullcap and scarf. His hand clenched around his toy tightly.

"It's a shame we had to wait so long before hitting the road again," Emily added, her posture slightly hunched as she checked her bag to ensure everything was in order.

Brian chimed in with an explanation, "There was no other choice. Torterra bounced back quickly, but Ditto took a good two weeks to fully recover to his usual weird self. As for Primeape and Vulpix, well, their broken ribs needed three weeks to heal."

Seth's gaze lowered as he muttered, "I'm really sorry about that, guys. Brian I still can’t believe you had no injuries.”

His response was quick and understanding, "You knocked her off balance by taking down her pool, and she threw everything she had at you. Even that... what did she call it? Ultra Evolution?”

"At least we're all okay now," Emily chimed in, her freckled face illuminated by the gentle morning sunlight as she affectionately petted Vulpix. "Let's just get moving."

As they embarked from Westgate, the soft snowflakes continued to drift down around them. For Seth and Erin, this departure marked their final exit from their home. Seth turned to Brian, voicing a concern, "You know, you don't have to come with us all the way to Lavender Town. I have to wait a year to battle Misty again, but you could continue on your journey."

Brian's expression changed momentarily, contemplation visible on his face. He then regarded Seth with a thoughtful gaze. "My taxes are due in three months, and there's no way I can complete the League challenge within that time. Plus if I lose then I die. I think I'll stick with you guys and head to Lavender Town for work. You’re right, its coastal location and distance from major cities, more specifically team rocket, means we should be able to find something even during winter."

Seth's words were sincere as he responded, "For what it's worth, I'm really glad you're coming with us."

Emily interjected from behind, "Oh, how sweet."

Ignoring her comment, Seth's attention shifted to his son, who was riding atop Torterra. Despite the snow-covered landscape and Torterra's immediate hatred for the snow, Erin was still happily issuing commands to the massive Pokémon, who begrudgingly complied.

III

"Just the four of you," announced Benjamin, a burly old man stationed on the board ramp that connected his weathered small houseboat to the pier. The imposing Team Rocket Wall loomed faintly in the distance to the east. He scratched his balding head, his eyes lighting up at Erin. A fond smile curved his lips. "He sure has grown."

"Yeah, we're headed to Lavender Town, and we could really use your help," Seth explained, holding Erin in his arms while Vulpix sat patiently beside him.

"I can take you as far as Aureolin Town," Benjamin offered, his tone thoughtful. "It'll be about a week's journey, but that should get you fairly close to Lavender."

Brian chimed, "Why can't you take us all the way to Lavender?"

"The river cuts through the mountains, and there are some treacherous spots, but gets you three-quarters of the way through the Rock Mountain Range.” He explained.

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“And after three-quarters?” Emily asked.

“Shortly after Aureolin Town, there's a waterfall. Without a boat, you'd be looking at a two-month walk, and that's if we're lucky with this winter weather," he explained, gesturing to the falling snow around them.

Seth's voice turned more serious as he asked the inevitable question. "How much?"

"Two thousand," Benjamin replied.

"Two thousand?" Seth exclaimed, his disbelief evident. "Benjamin, I've known you since I was a kid. You were at my wedding."

Benjamin's expression softened. "I'm giving you that price because of all that. Your father-in-law was the finest man I've ever known. But my taxes are due soon, if it was just the one week floating downstream it would be one thing. But I also have a three week minimum upstream, and that is dependent on Blastoise pushing. Anyone else would charge a thousand a person. I'm not charging you or Erin."

Seth's cool demeanor returned. "Okay. I understand. We'll accept. It's better than spending all the remaining time trudging through the snow." He glanced at Emily and Brian, who nodded in reluctant agreement.

Benjamin's voice turned serious. "I don't want to end up like Harold, Seth."

"I know, and I appreciate that. Thank you," he replied genuinely.

They stepped onto the boat, a humble vessel that seemed to have seen its fair share of journeys. Benjamin released Blastoise in the water whom navigated away from the dock, the boat gently rocking as it set a course down the river. It was a tight fit on the small and practical houseboat, but it was their best bet.

The boat was a modest and weathered vessel as if someone dropped a box on a flat empty boat. Its exterior was worn and faded, the paint chipped and peeling in places, revealing the aged wood underneath.

The cabin, which served as both living quarters and control center, was a simple and functional space. Its wooden walls were weathered by time and the elements, giving it a rustic charm. heated solely by an old wood burning heater but giving a comfortable atmosphere in comparison to the cold outside.

Inside, there was just enough room for the essentials. A narrow table was anchored to the floor, flanked by two worn-out benches and two old chairs. A small, well-worn kitchenette occupied one corner, its appliances showing signs of age but still functional.

A pair of modest sleeping bunks were tucked against the walls, covered by thin, faded sheets and well-worn blankets. The space between them was narrow, leaving little room for movement. A few storage compartments were built into the walls, each filled with an assortment of supplies and necessities for the journey.

"Alright, we're off," Benjamin announced, his breath misting in the cold air as he entered the cabin and rubbed his arms for warmth.

Erin, his attention fixed on the passing hillside outside the window, inquired, "Does Blastoise have to push the whole time?"

Benjamin chuckled and crouched down to Erin's eye level. His kind face and wrinkled eyes lit up with a warm smile. "I have missed you, little man. No, he won't have to push the whole time. The current should do most of the work. But coming back home, well, let's just say he gets a little testy."

The days on the boat stretched ahead, and boredom settled in like a heavy fog. The snowstorm that had raged on the first day gradually abated, leaving behind a vast expanse of pristine white that seemed to swallow everything in its embrace. The river's edge, embraced by rolling hillsides, slowly gave way to the towering embrace of the mountainsides. Erin's initial curiosity turned into restlessness, and he began pestering everyone with questions and fidgeting.

Seth, Brian, and Emily tried to make the most of their time on the boat, attempting to train their Pokémon. However, the confined space made it challenging for all but Vaporeon to move around comfortably. As the third day descended into evening, the landscape outside was transformed by the radiant glow of the full moon. The snow-covered surroundings glittered like a diamond-studded blanket. Blastoise, swimming behind the boat, its shell gleaming in the moonlight as it maintained a watchful eye on their journey.

Inside the cabin, the warm glow of the old wood burner painted the surroundings with a comforting orange hue, a stark contrast to the cold world beyond the cabin's thin walls. Seated around the table, the four adults shared drinks and laughter, with the occasional interruption of Erin's hearty snores filling the gaps in their conversation. Emily's gaze was fixed on the upper bunk, where Erin lay, and she chuckled, remarking, "Seth, I'm thankful for not having to sleep on the floor, but your son… it is like sharing a bed with a hyperactive Machamp."

"He's a handful, you'd think he'd sleep like a log considering how energetic he is during the day. But I swear, he's even more animated in his sleep than when he's awake. His mother was the same way. I used to have to construct a pillow barricade in our bed," Seth replied, his laughter mixed with the sound of his fingers scratching his stubbled chin.

"I've heard Brian's story, now what about yours?" Benjamin inquired, turning his attention towards Emily.

"From an abusive mother to being sold into slavery, I managed to escape and was on a warpath until Seth intervened," Emily summarized her tumultuous journey.

Benjamin looked at her, perplexed, his hand absently scratching his head. "Okay, that's quite a lot. Can I hear the full story?" As the boat gently glided down the Cerulean River, Emily recounted her traumatic past. Her upbeat demeanor clashed starkly with the horrendous experiences she was describing. Benjamin listened intently, his brow furrowed in thought. He was especially intrigued by Emily's ability to live outside the confines of the tax system.

Seth listened closely, even though he was already familiar with most of the events. It still never failed to shock him just how much suffering this country had inflicted upon its people.

"And then, on the way to Pewter City, I ended up falling in love with the turdface over there," Emily remarked, motioning her thumb toward Erin, whose mouth hung open as he snored loudly. A silence settled over the group as Emily concluded her narrative. Each of them clutched their drinks, unsure of how to transition from such a heavy conversation.

Seth finally broke the silence, his gaze locked onto Benjamin. "Did Harold suffer?"

"We don't believe so. His neck was snapped. He never told anyone he was lagging behind. You know how he was, always reluctant to burden anyone," Benjamin replied, his eyes avoiding direct contact as he stared into his drink.

"Yeah, he was a decent soul. After my father left, he'd always make sure to check on me," Seth added.

"This world doesn't concern itself with morality, just money," Benjamin muttered, his gaze still fixed on his drink. "I'm going to give Blastoise a break," he announced, abruptly standing up, the screech of the chair breaking the momentary silence. "If you need me, I'll be outside."

The others nodded in acknowledgment, their eyes following Benjamin's departure through the door, where the biting winter air rushed into the cabin.

Seth stood gazing out of the window, his eyes fixed on the towering mountain range flanking both sides of the river. Lost in his contemplations, his thoughts were abruptly interrupted by Brian's voice. "Once we get enough money, where should we head next – Vermilion or Fuchsia?"

"Vermilion is the more viable option. We could take on Lt. Surge and then, if necessary, walk to Fuchsia in case we can't secure another ship. From there, we can challenge Koga. With those badges, you'll have enough for access to Cinnabar Island," Seth strategized. He continued, "I understand you're eager to see Glenn and Ava.” Brian nodded, his lips sealed. “We'll discuss the details later. Right now, I'm going to try and catch some sleep." Throughout the night, the boat bounced slightly through the night flowing them closer to freedom but the dread of never reaching that freedom plagued Seth as Sarah’s pressences outside each window encapsulated him.

IV

Morning came with an all too familiar stir, as Erin's bout of cabin fever roused the occupants of the houseboat with its raucous commotion. Vulpix, less than thrilled, reluctantly partook within the confined quarters. Hearing the noise Benjamin walked back in and the cold rush of air was the final nail in the coffin to Brian’s sleep. "We're making a pit stop in the upcoming town for supplies," Benjamin announced.

"We've got enough supplies for another day at least," Emily retorted, sipping coffee at the central table.

"Well, you see," Benjamin scratched the last vestiges of his white fuzz at the back of his head, "the river's about to hit some rough rapids, and this is the last settlement along the bank before we reach Aureolin Town."

"It might be good for Erin to stretch his legs anyway, before I decide to toss him overboard," Seth chimed in, his son turning quickly attempting to protest until he saw his father’s smile.

The town materialized ahead, a modest cluster of about a hundred structures nestled beneath the looming mountain. Time had worn down the houses to a state of desperate disrepair, a reflection of countless towns across Kanto. Guided by Blastoise's efforts, the boat approached a weathered dock extending over the water. Benjamin secured the vessel and lowered the boarding ramp onto the dock.

"I'll be heading to the shop to restock; meet you all back on the boat in an hour or so," Benjamin declared, recalling Blastoise to its Pokéball and attaching it to his belt.

"Want me to come along and help?" Brian called out, raising his voice as Benjamin distanced himself.

With a quick about-face, Benjamin hollered back, "No!" before vanishing around a corner, his figure quickly swallowed by the town's backdrop.

"I wonder what's put him in such a mood," Brian mused, his hand running through his black hair as he peered in the direction Benjamin had taken.

"He was up steering the boat last night. I'd be grumpy too," Seth offered, his retort met by a smirk from Emily.

"You're always in a mood," she teased, her eyes dancing with amusement.

The small group strolled through the desolate streets of the town, which they soon realized was called Xanthic Town. The name seemed ironic against the town's stark and somber ambiance. The once-thriving community appeared abandoned, the buildings bearing the weight of time's passage with weary facades. Chipped paint and cracked windows told stories of a place that had seen better days.

As they walked, Vulpix trotted alongside Erin, her tails brushing gently against his legs. The occasional dusting of snow seemed to accentuate the melancholic scene, as if nature itself had joined in the town's mournful mood.

Then, amidst the backdrop of subdued greys and muted browns, a surprising sight appeared—a place with a dozen or so Miltanks gently roaming behind it. The establishment bore a sign that read "Miltank Milkshakes." The irony of the whimsical name in such a solemn setting was not lost on them. Curiosity piqued, they ventured closer, a rare spark of excitement flickering in their eyes. Inside, the worn-out interior the scents of freshly prepared food mingled with the warmth from the stove.

Taking a seat at one of the few tables, they placed their orders—a range of milkshakes in various flavors, from classic vanilla to indulgent chocolate. The atmosphere inside was a stark contrast to the abandoned streets. The clinking of glasses and the quiet hum of conversation enveloped them, offering a brief respite from the surrounding gloom. Erin, in particular, seemed to relish the experience, his eyes widening with each sip of the sweet treat. He managed to down two milkshakes with enthusiasm, his youthful energy momentarily overshadowing the gravity of their journey.

On their way back to the boat the citizens who braved the chill were marked by a collective air of depression, their faces etched with the burdens of their circumstances. Xanthic Town seemed trapped in a cycle of decline, an emblem of the hardships that had befallen Kanto. The fleeting moment of sweetness from the milkshakes was like a brief oasis in a desert of despair, reminding them of the small joys that still managed to bloom amidst the desolation.

They made their way back to the boat, their footsteps echoing lightly on the wooden dock. "It seems Benjamin still hasn't returned," Brian remarked, his voice carrying a note of concern. "He said he didn't need help, but I think I'll go assist him anyway," he added as they stepped back into the vessel.

"Just don't take too long. If you don't locate him within 10 minutes, come back; he shouldn't be much longer," Seth advised, his words carrying a mix of caution and urgency. Brian nodded in understanding, his determination evident in his brisk strides as he headed toward the door. Erin settled back in, engrossed in his play, while Emily and Seth found seats inside the cabin.

"Hey, everyone," Brian's voice rang out suddenly, drawing their attention. "Come out here, quick!"

Seth's response was swift and sharp, "Watch him! Incinerate anyone who isn't us!" He directed Vulpix, his tone heavy with both command and worry. The cabin door slammed shut as Seth and Emily hurried outside, their eyes following Brian's gaze.

As they reached the edge of the dock and turned their focus back to the town, a perplexing scene unfolded before them. Benjamin was standing there, pointing toward the ship, and a member of Team Rocket was exchanging money with him. The sight of two other Team Rocket operatives heightened the tension – a large, grotesque woman exuded a sinister smirk while a slender man fiddled restlessly with a Pokéball in his hand.