Chapter 4

ANGELS WITH DIRTY FACES

No chance that I could win

Too hard to not give in

I just don't feel the same

Cause I'm the one to blame

Sometimes I can't hold on

And no one can help me

- Sum 41

I

"Recall that fucking Pokémon now!" Seth's voice reverberated with fury.

"FLAPPLE!" Erin's voice filled with excitement as he recklessly dashed towards the figure, only to be restrained by his father's firm grip on the back of his shirt.

"What did you do to Grotle?" Seth demanded, his voice laced with concern.

The mysterious man appeared bewildered. "Who? What? I just followed the light of the campfire instead of wandering in the darkness."

Fueled by frustration, Seth commanded Vulpix, "Flamethrower on the path he just took!" Flames erupted, casting an intense glow that revealed Grotle peacefully sleeping, oblivious to the chaos. "You've got to be kidding me," Seth muttered in disbelief. "Grotle!" he called out in irritation. Grotle rose and approached the firelight, fixing a stern gaze upon the figure as if he hadn't dropped the ball.

After exchanging a brief moment of amusement with Grotle, He turned his attention back to Seth. "My name is Brian, and I'm searching for my sister. I lost track of time, and before I could find my way to Route 3, the sun had already set."

Seth's voice boomed with authority, "Put that Flapple away now!"

Reluctantly, Brian obeyed, recalling his Flapple with a flash of red light. "Fine," he sighed. "Can I at least sit here for the night? It's not safe to be on this road after dark. There is a crazy guy out there."

"No! Now get the fuck out!" Seth's frustration echoed in his words.

"Seth," Emily intervened, her tone gentle yet firm. "I will take the remainder of the night. Let him stay. We can't leave this man to fend for himself and risk his life out there."

"I'm not willing to risk Erin's safety for a stranger," Seth stubbornly declared.

Emily met Seth's gaze, her voice unwavering. "And are you willing to potentially condemn a man to death for that? I promise you, I will ensure his Pokéballs are in my possession while he's here. That shouldn't be a problem, right?" She directed a sharp glance at Brian.

Brian quickly responded, "No, ma'am."

Seth grumbled in discontent, "This is a mistake. Grotle, don't fall asleep this time." With those words, Seth, Mankey, Vulpix, and Erin retreated to their tent. Everyone but Seth was sound asleep almost immediately. While he fought the urge to sleep for maybe over an hour he slowly succumbed as well.

II

When Seth awoke, the sun had already risen high in the sky. Panicked, he immediately noticed that Erin was not by his side. "Erin!" he called out.

"Over here," Emily responded calmly.

Seth hurriedly exited the tent, finding Emily cooking breakfast over the fire. "Why did you let me sleep? You could have..." His gaze immediately fell upon Flapple, still out of its Pokéball. "Wait, why is Flapple still out? Vulpix!"

"Calm down," Emily replied, unfazed. "I told him it was okay."

"That's not your decision!" Seth retorted.

"Maybe not, but for one, Erin wouldn't stop pestering us to let him play with Flapple." Seth noticed Brian on the side of the field, observing Erin and Flapple playing together. "And two, it's his favorite Pokémon. Look at how much fun he's having."

Seth let out a sigh, realizing he had overreacted. "Maybe you're right. I'm sorry for snapping. So, what's his story?" Seth inquired, curious about Brian's background. She handed him a flier featuring a woman named Rachel Jarrus, a captivating figure with short black hair. The flier bore the words Have you seen me? at the bottom. "Seems like he was telling the truth," Seth commented, studying the image of Rachel.

"Seems to be. But hey, I know you have to head out here soon to take on Brock and there is something I need to discuss with you." Emily's words piqued Seth's curiosity. "I can't go with you guys into the city," Emily stated, her face displaying determination.

"Why?" He inquired, his voice filled with curiosity and concern.

She took a moment to collect her thoughts before responding, her gaze steady. "I've shared with you how I've been fighting against those bastards since I escaped. They don't know my face, but if I were to go through the Pewter City checkpoint, they would one, ask for my ID, which I don't possess. Two, it would become evident that I haven't paid any taxes to them well since I was bought. That wouldn't end well for me. To reach Devin, I'll have to find a way to sneak in during the cover of night."

Understanding Emily's predicament, Seth nodded in acknowledgement. "Alright, well, when we leave Pewter City and head back to Cerulean, we can make a stop here. Erin has grown attached to you, and it would be good for him to see you again."

A grateful smile formed on Emily's face. "I appreciate that. It has actually been pretty fun. You're a good person Seth. I truly hope you can free him from Kanto."

Seth and Emily shared a fleeting smile as the morning sun cast its warm glow upon them. Her freckled face and blue eyes shining with a gentle radiance. Seth rose from the log near the crackling fire. "Erin, it's time to say goodbye to Flapple. We're leaving as soon as I'm packed up."

"Okay daddy," he called back.

Meanwhile, Brian approached Seth while he was busy dismantling the tent, and Vulpix stared at him with an unwavering gaze. "Is that Vulpix gold?" Brian asked, his voice filled with curiosity.

"Yeah, it belonged to my wife," Seth replied.

"I see. Would you mind if I walked back with you?" Brian asked tentatively, his muscular stature contrasting with his uncertain demeanor.

Seth's response was curt and cold. "I don't care what you do, Brian."

"Oh, okay," Brian replied, his voice betraying a touch of insecurity.

III

Seth and Brian began their walk, an awkward silence settled between them. Brian attempted to make small talk, but his efforts were met with minimal response from Seth. The road they were on, Route 3, gradually widened as they approached Pewter City. The towering buildings loomed over the rolling fields. After about a half hour of walking, they reached the checkpoint at the edge of the city.

"Brian, since you live here, can you tell me if Team Rocket is a major presence in this city?" Seth inquired.

"It's a bit of a mixed bag, really," Brian replied. "It depends on who they have operating in the city. Some grunts can be real assholes and make life hell for everyone. But then there are others who simply don't care or aren't as active."

Seth nodded, "What about the ones at the checkpoint? Are they strict?"

"Well, we're about to find out. I went through the southern route 2 checkpoint yesterday." Brian said, a hint of uncertainty in his voice. They approached the checkpoint, they noticed two small buildings flanking a large gate in the middle. The gate bore a prominent red "R" symbol, with the words "Route 3 Entrance" written below it. Men dressed in black uniforms could be seen patrolling around the buildings and stationed in front of the gate. Tall walls, about fifteen feet high, extended from the buildings, encircling the expansive city of Pewter. Erin sat comfortably on Seth's shoulders, while Vulpix positioned itself between Seth and Brian.

"Seth, I think it's best if Vulpix gets into its Pokéball here," Brian suggested. "It will be safer for Erin." He addressed Vulpix who was glaring daggers at him.

"I promise I'll release you as soon as we pass through the checkpoint." As Seth spoke, a red light enveloped Vulpix. To his surprise and gratitude it vanishes into the Pokéball.

"Alright, here's how it's going to go," Brian explained. "They'll likely inspect our belongings and request identification. As long as you're up to date on your taxes and don't have any criminal records, you should be able to enter without any issues." They approached the imposing gate, its towering presence sending a shiver down Seth's spine. His heart raced in his chest, anticipation and anxiety intertwining within him.

IV

A Team Rocket member approached them, emanating an aura of malevolence that Seth couldn't ignore. "Identification, now," the towering woman demanded, her tone cold and authoritative. He was worried he was either going to hand over their identification cards or punch the girl in the face. He was happy he chose the former. He grabbed the cards out of his wallet in his back pocket and stretched out a hand with two cards, one for himself and the other for Erin. Brian also handed his id over, and the Team Rocket member collected them before retreating to the nearby tower to the left. Time seemed to stretch, each passing moment feeling like an eternity. He couldn't help but worry about Erin's safety in this vulnerable position. If any of them decided to cause trouble, he felt helpless to protect his son.

He glanced back and forth, observing the activities of Team Rocket within the tower. He anxiously awaited their return. "You doing okay up there, buddy?" Seth whispered to Erin, attempting to offer reassurance.

"Yup," Erin replied, his voice filled with innocence and trust, engrossed in playing with his Flapple toy on top of his father. Finally, the she approached them once more, returning their identification cards.

"You're free to go," she stated, her voice lacking any warmth or friendliness.

The gate slowly opened, Seth's heart pounded loudly in his chest, the sound echoing in his ears. Walking through the gate, Brian remarked, "Well, that went smoothly at least. Thanks for letting me walk with you. I have to head this way," Brian pointed to the left road. "Keep going straight into the heart of the city, you will find Brock's gym. Please if you do find anyone resembling my sister please go to the Citizen Watch Building." Seth nodded, and they went their separate ways. Seth released Vulpix from its Pokéball, offering an apology for the earlier confinement. They continued walking, and he was captivated by the sheer beauty of Pewter City. It was so different to the war-torn and sorrowful places they had encountered, with Team Rocket's influence spreading darkness. The city seemed like a different world, bustling with activity, people going about their lives oblivious to the suffering beyond the city walls. Conversations and laughter filled the air, creating an illusion of prosperity. Erin excitedly pointed out different Pokémon they could see, while Seth fought to contain his emotions, aware that this apparent bliss was built upon the suffering of others.

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However he knew he had to stay focused. Instead of dwelling on the facade, he concentrated on his battle plan for facing Brock. Grotle would lead the charge, chipping away at Brock's first Pokémon. Mankey, through endurance, could take down a slower rock type Pokémon. Seth had to trust in the training they had undergone and believe it would pay off in the upcoming battle.

V

Approaching the Pewter City Gym, Erin's eyes widened in amazement at the sheer size of the building. Its exterior showcased a blend of sturdy stone walls and intricate architectural details. The gym's entrance was adorned with a grand stone archway, carved with intricate patterns that depicted various Rock-type Pokémon, showcasing the gym's specialty. The archway served as a gateway into the vast interior, where trainers would face their ultimate challenge. The gym loomed before them, an imposing structure that commanded respect.

"Daddy, look how big it is!" Erin exclaimed with excitement.

Seth smiled down at his son. "Yes, it's quite impressive, isn't it? Do you think Grotle is ready?"

Erin nodded confidently. "Yupporuni! Grotle's been training hard, and we're going to win!"

"Well, I'm glad you're confident, buddy," Seth said, ruffling Erin's hair.

VI

The gym's interior was equally awe-inspiring. The vast expanse was dominated by rocky terrain, resembling a natural cave formation. Large boulders, carefully arranged to create challenging obstacles, were scattered throughout the gym floor. The floor itself mimicked the rough texture of natural rock, adding an element of authenticity to the environment. At the center of the gym, a raised platform stood, serving as the battleground. Carved from solid stone, the platform exuded strength and stability. In the distance, a towering statue of a powerful Rock-type Pokémon, seemingly carved from the same stone as the platform.

Beyond the battlefield arena, a second stage rose, adding an impressive layer of grandeur to the gym. Two grand staircases, fashioned from sturdy stone, cascaded down from each side of the platform, meeting at the center where Brock stood. He exuded an aura of strength and determination. His shirtless form revealed a chiseled physique. His rugged appearance was complemented by a pair of well-worn jeans. As Seth's gaze shifted towards the stage, his eyes widened with disbelief. Surrounding Brock were ten women, positioned along the platform. Their appearances evoked a sense of allure and submission. Clad in revealing outfits that accentuated their figures, they seemed more like objects of display than individuals with agency. The women's attire consisted of tight-fitting dresses, barely covering their bodies, and emphasizing their curves. Their hair, styled meticulously, cascaded in waves or hung in perfectly arranged braids, further enhancing their visual appeal.

What struck Seth with unease was the unsettling age range among these women. Some appeared to be young, barely teenagers, their innocence overshadowed by the explicit presentation. Others were older, but their submissive postures and downtrodden expressions suggested a lack of autonomy and freedom. It was a disconcerting sight, challenging any preconceived notions of Brock's character and raising questions about his treatment of those around him. Seth couldn't help but feel a sense of discomfort and unease. Any illusion that he had of Brock being a good person in a shitty country was shattered immediately.

"How many badges do you have?" Brock's booming voice echoed through the gym, directed at Seth.

"This will be my first badge," Seth replied confidently.

Brock smirked, a hint of amusement in his eyes. "I see. Well then, I may be required to only battle you with two Pokémon, but that doesn't mean I'm going easy. Do you still want to challenge me?" Seth nodded in approval. "Fine then! Show me your best."

He descended the stairs and positioned himself on the left side of the arena, ready for the challenge. Seth, Vulpix and Erin made their way to the opposing side. Before the battle commenced, Brock established the rules. "This is a gym battle, and we will do our best to avoid causing any serious harm, namely death, to each other's Pokémon. Our goal is to knock them out. I don't have enough time in the day to raise new Pokemon with each gym battle. Do you agree with these conditions?" Relieved that the battle would not escalate to a dangerous level and traumatize Erin, he nodded in agreement. "Alright, ladies," Brock called out to the women on the platform, his tone suggestive. "I'll be back shortly. Enjoy the spectacle."

VII

With a swift motion, he tossed a pokéball into the air, releasing a burst of red light that materialized into a sturdy Sudowoodo. it emerged from the pokéball with an unsettling menace. Its appearance was deceiving, resembling a tall, gnarled tree with a hardened, stone-like exterior. Its body was covered in rough, bark-like skin, exhibiting deep cracks and crevices. The branches that extended were long, twisted limbs, each ending in sharp, jagged points that gave off an eerie impression. As the Sudowoodo stood tall on the battlefield, its eyes gleamed with a sinister glint.

"Erin, release Grotle!" Seth commanded, his voice resolute. With a burst of excitement, Erin threw his pokéball forward, and in a flash of light, Grotle's sturdy form took shape. Its massive shell glistened with a mossy green hue.

Brock's voice thundered through the gym as he took charge. "Sudowoodo, unleash your true power! Show them the might of Rock Slide!" With a powerful stomp, Sudowoodo shook the ground beneath its feet, causing the towering rock formations surrounding the battlefield to crumble. Enormous boulders were dislodged and hurtled towards Grotle, threatening to crush it under their weight.

Seth's voice echoed with determination. "Grotle, Shield yourself with Withdraw!" Grotle swiftly retreated into its sturdy shell, creating a protective barrier just in time. The deafening sound of rocks colliding with the shell filled the air, creating a symphony of destruction.

Brock's eyes had an intensity about them. "Sudowoodo, strike with the force of Wood Hammer!" Sudowoodo's gnarled arms transformed into massive, vine-covered tree trunks. It charged towards Grotle, aiming to deliver a bone-shattering blow.

Seth's voice grew more urgent. "Grotle, counter with Leech Seed at close range!" Grotle endured the impact, seizing the opportunity to ensnare Sudowoodo with its vines. They coiled around Sudowoodo's limbs, draining its energy while it was in close proximity.

Brock's smirk widened. "Sudowoodo, unleash Fire Punch!" Sudowoodo broke free from the vines, its limbs engulfed in scorching flames. With a burst of speed, it closed the distance between itself and Grotle, delivering a devastating fiery punch to Grotle's vulnerable spot under its shell. Grotle was sent flying, bearing scorched marks from the attack.

Seth cried out. "Grotle, retaliate with Giga Drain!" Roots emerged from the ground, entwining around Sudowoodo's feet and draining its life force. Sudowoodo's movements became sluggish, clearly affected by the draining power.

Seth seized the opportunity. "Grotle, finish this with Solar Beam!" Grotle's tired eyes flashed with a final surge of energy. It absorbed the intensifying sunlight, gathering an immense amount of power within its core. A blinding beam of scorching light erupted from Grotle's mouth, engulfing Sudowoodo in a cataclysmic display of destructive force.

The gym quaked as the ground cracked beneath the impact. As the dust settled, Sudowoodo lay motionless on the battlefield, defeated and battered.

"Grotle, while Sudowoodo is down, drain its energy once more with Giga Drain!" Seth commanded. As Grotle's roots emerged from the ground and snaked around Sudowoodo's body, a surge of red light enveloped the defeated Pokémon, draining its remaining vitality until it vanished from sight.

"Good work. Let's see how you handle this." With a commanding gesture, Brock released his next Pokémon, and a chilling presence filled the arena. Out emerged a colossal Onix, its massive body coiling and writhing as it towered over the battlefield. Onix's rugged stone exterior seemed to emanate a primal power, its eyes gleaming with an unsettling energy.

The intimidating Onix's rocky armor bore the marks of countless battles. Its immense size alone was enough to send shivers down the spine of any opponent. The sheer weight and scale conveyed a sense of danger that lingered in the air.

Just as Seth contemplated how to turn the tide, he knew he needed a strategic change. "Yay, Grotle!" Erin cheered excitedly from behind his father.

Onix, in its immense strength, wrapped itself around a stone pillar, effortlessly reducing it to rubble. Brock's voice boomed across the battlefield. "Alright, Onix, unleash a barrage of Rock Throws!" Onix's tail swung forcefully, propelling a cascade of rocks towards Grotle.

Thinking quickly, Seth yelled, "Grotle, withdraw!" Grotle swiftly retreated into its protective shell, but the relentless rocks pummeled its defense. Some shattered against Grotle's shell, while others collided with the wall just beside Seth and Erin. Grotle emerged from its shell, visibly injured but determined to press on.

"Grotle! Position yourself between Onix and Brock's women!" Seth commanded, recognizing the advantage that Brock needed to shield the vulnerable bystanders. Grotle obeyed, strategically maneuvering to block Onix's path and limit its options. However, Onix's powerful tail lashed out, sending Grotle flying across the stadium and crashing into a rock pillar. Grotle struggled to rise but collapsed from exhaustion.

"Grotle!" Erin cried out, beginning to run towards the battlefield before being gently restrained by his father.

"Return, Grotle!" Seth swiftly recalled his exhausted Pokémon, who disappeared into its Pokéball. "Erin, will you take care of Grotle while I finish this battle?" Seth asked, concern etched on his face.

"Uh-huh," Erin nodded, understanding his role. Seth released Grotle by Erin's side.

"Alright, Mankey, it's your turn," Seth declared. Mankey sprang onto the field, agilely scaling a nearby pillar to meet Onix eye-to-eye.

Seth's voice resonated with disappointment and a touch of anger as he confronted Brock. "It's sad. I always heard you were actually one of the decent leaders who still cared about Kanto. But here you are, ignoring the suffering of our people, surrounded by women and even children. You're sick. "

Brock's face twisted with frustration, his retort filled with defiance. "Think logically. No matter what I do, Team Rocket will always have a hold on Kanto. But if I play the game I get what I want." He points with his thumb behind him to his forced fanbase. "Additionally, Pewter city and its residents thrive. At least the ones that can afford to. I really don't care how you feel about me. Because no matter how this battle goes afterwards I get to enjoy my life, so let's get this over with." Seth shook his head in irritation and disgusted. Words were useless at this point so he refocused back on the battlefield.

The tension mounted between Mankey and Onix, Seth's heart raced with anticipation. The atmosphere in the gym turned sinister as Brock's voice boomed with malevolence. "Onix, unleash your Rock Tomb!" Onix's tail lashed out with a bone-chilling force, striking the pillar where Mankey stood moments ago. The pillar crumbled into rubble, but to Brock's surprise, Mankey leaped gracefully onto Onix's head, evading the attack with agility. Mankey, perched on the towering Onix, taunted its opponent with audacious gestures. It hopped from one remaining pillar to another, mocking Onix with its daring maneuvers. The air crackled with an unsettling energy as Onix growled in frustration.

Seth's voice resonated with trepidation. "Mankey, keep pushing!" As the tension escalated, the battle took on an unsettling and suspenseful tone. The clash between the agile Mankey and Onix intensified, filling the gym with an ominous presence. As the battle between Onix and Mankey unfolded, Onix continued to launch relentless attacks, but Mankey's agility and speed allowed it to dodge each strike with incredible precision. Onix's massive body, while intimidating, proved to be a hindrance as its size made it harder to land accurate blows.

With each missed attack, Onix grew visibly exhausted, panting heavily as it struggled to keep up with Mankey's swift movements. Sensing an opportunity, Seth commanded Mankey with confidence. "Mankey, use Low Kick!" Mankey swiftly moved in, its leg swinging with precision and striking Onix's sturdy body with a powerful blow. Onix staggered, momentarily losing its balance, as its massive form crashed to the ground, creating a tremor that reverberated throughout the battlefield. Seizing the advantage, Mankey leaped onto Onix's fallen form, demonstrating its dominance. With a fierce expression on its face, Mankey made its intentions clear. It positioned itself near the joint connecting Onix's head, readying its powerful attack, Brick Break and staring at Brock.

Seth's voice cut through the eerie silence, his words dripping with icy determination. "Do you give up?"

"Yeah, alright. That Mankey was stronger than I had anticipated. " Brock grumbled in resignation. In an instant, Onix vanished from the battlefield. The atmosphere shifted as Mankey's triumphant screeches filled the air, echoing through the gym. The eerie stillness was shattered by Mankey's exuberant jumps and celebratory cries.

Out of nowhere a glow behind Seth caught him completely off guard. Grotle's eyes emitted a brilliant white light, enveloping its entire body. Erin and Vulpix jump back in surprise with Vulpix in front protecting him. To his astonishment, a circle of roots and earth formed out of the ground and around Grotle, shimmering with ethereal beams of light that pierced through the gaps of the earth. The circle slowly crumbled away, unveiling the magnificent evolution of Grotle—Torterra. The Pokémon stood proudly, its massive tree-like shell hovering over them.

Erin's joyous scream filled the gym as he witnessed the incredible transformation of his beloved Grotle. With boundless excitement, he climbed Torterra's sturdy body, leaping and bouncing on the Pokémon's back. Torterra showed signs of residual pain still, but its happiness overshadowed any discomfort.

Brock approached Seth, Erin, Vulpix, and Torterra, offering a begrudging acknowledgement. "That was a decent battle. Here's your Boulder Badge," he said, handing the badge to Seth.

Seth took the badge with disdain. "Thanks," he replied curtly, his tone laced with bitterness. He couldn't help but feel a surge of anger towards Brock for his apathy towards the suffering of others.

Brock's brow furrowed, confusion evident in his expression. "Why even bother with the League challenge? It's a near-impossible feat," he questioned.

Seth's gaze hardened as he met Brock's eyes. Then his gaze went towards the girls before turning back to him, "Because unlike you, I'm willing to go to any lengths to protect and save those who truly matter," he declared resolutely.

With that, Seth turned away from Brock, Erin and Vulpix trailing behind him. He recalled Torterra and Mankey, ready to leave the gym and continue their journey. As they walked out, Seth couldn't shake off the lingering thought of the girls under Brock's influence, but he pushed it aside, recognizing the harsh reality of a world that often trampled upon the hopes and dreams of its inhabitants.

VIII

After a satisfying meal, Seth and Erin returned to their hotel room as the sun began to set. Erin, still beaming with excitement over Torterra's evolution, curled up next to Vulpix and drifted off to sleep. Seth's thoughts, however, turned to Emily. He couldn't shake off the worry that lingered in his mind, wondering if she was safe. He decided to send Staravia to deliver a note and find out where she was headed to and after dealing with Team Rocket. Seth hoped that she would consider joining them after her business was done.

Staravia gracefully took flight through the open window, disappearing into the darkening sky. As the minutes ticked by, darkness gradually settled in the room, casting an eerie ambiance. Seth anxiously awaited Staravia's return, his mind filled with a mixture of hope and concern.

After what felt like an eternity, Staravia reappeared, landing on the floor with a soft thud. Seth approached his loyal Pokémon, ready to retrieve the note. However, his anticipation quickly turned to horror as his gaze fell upon the object lying at Staravia's feet. There, on the now blood-stained carpet, lay the top half of Arctibax's skull.

His heart pounding, Seth's attention was suddenly drawn to the other end of the room. Sarah and her ghostly presence hovered ominously. Her contorted mouth cracked open, releasing a chilling chant that echoed through the room. "You can't save her!"