章節 69: Chapter 70: Outside the Gym

The Cerulean Gym stood impressively large, even bigger than the Pewter Gym. Its architecture showcased water-themed elements, with a striking Dewgong figure on the front sign.

However, Ash couldn't help but notice the difference between the current state of the Gym and the Cerulean Gym he remembered from the Sun and Moon anime. Instead of the modern and luxurious design he had seen, this version appeared outdated and neglected.

Ash could understand why. The Cerulean Gym had fallen on hard times. Yet, he believed that under Misty's leadership in the future, the Gym would revive and once again become a symbol of pride for Cerulean City.

Despite its worn-out appearance, the Gym remained bustling. By 8 a.m., a long line of at least two hundred people had formed outside.

"Are all these people here to challenge the Gym?" Ash asked in surprise.

Misty shook her head, her expression tinged with disappointment. "No... they're probably here to watch my sisters' performances."

"Performances?" Ash was stunned, and Brock, whose full name was Liu Jian, appeared equally speechless. The thought of a Gym, which was supposed to represent a city's strength and prestige, being reduced to a stage for shows seemed outrageous.

Misty continued with a mix of frustration and shame. "If a trainer buys a ticket to watch the performance, my sisters just... hand them the Badge."

"Wait, what? They just give the Badge away?" Ash was at a loss for words, while Brock frowned deeply, clearly disapproving of the practice.

Feeling a wave of embarrassment, Misty quickly led them to a smaller queue nearby. This was where trainers who truly wanted to challenge the Gym could register for a proper battle.

The trainers in this line were a stark contrast to the crowd gathered for the performance. They were determined individuals who refused to take an easy route to earn a Badge.

"Are you here to challenge the Gym too?" one trainer asked as Ash and the others joined the line.

"Yes," Ash nodded confidently. Brock and Misty remained silent, but their presence caught the attention of the group.

"Wait a minute... isn't that... Brock? The former Pewter Gym Leader?" another trainer exclaimed in surprise, his eyes lighting up in recognition.

"Yes, that's me," Brock replied with a polite smile. "I've temporarily stepped away from the Pewter Gym, but I haven't officially resigned."

The group of trainers erupted into murmurs of admiration.

"Brock's Gym was so tough to beat," one trainer said. "If he hadn't held back during my challenge, I don't think I would have stood a chance."

Misty watched the exchange with a mix of admiration and envy. She dreamed of the day when Cerulean Gym could earn similar respect.

As they chatted, one trainer turned to Ash. "You know, you could just buy a ticket for the performance and skip the battle altogether. It's an easy way to get the Badge."

Ash shook his head firmly. "I'd rather earn the Badge through my own efforts."

The trainer's face lit up with approval. "I like your attitude! That's how it should be."

However, another trainer sighed. "The problem is, the Cerulean Gym is so weak that beating it hardly feels like an accomplishment."

Misty bit her lower lip, her frustration evident.

"The Pokémon League should replace the current Gym Leaders with stronger trainers," another trainer chimed in. "Honestly, Cerulean Gym is an embarrassment to the Kanto Region."

The comment stung. Misty clenched her fists, her face red with anger. She was ready to confront the trainer, but Ash noticed her tension and grabbed her hand. He shook his head slightly, silently urging her to let him handle it.

Turning to the trainer, Ash's expression grew serious. "You should apologize for what you said."

The trainer scoffed, clearly unrepentant. "Apologize? Why should I? Everything I said is true!"

Ash stood firm, his tone unwavering. "You're insulting the Gym without understanding its history or the challenges it faces. Apologize."

The other trainers looked on, some nodding in agreement with Ash's stance. However, a few sided with the outspoken trainer, agreeing that Cerulean Gym had become a disgrace.

Realizing he didn't have unanimous support, the trainer's confidence wavered. Still, he sneered at Ash. "If you want me to apologize, you'll have to beat me in a battle."

Ash's eyes narrowed, and he reached for a Poké Ball. "Fine. I'll make you apologize to the Cerulean Gym."

Behind him, Misty's heart swelled with emotion. She was touched by Ash's willingness to defend her Gym. Yet, she felt this was a fight she should take on herself.

"No, Ash," Misty said, stepping forward. Her voice was filled with determination. "This is my battle. I'm the one who should defend the Cerulean Gym's honor."

Ash hesitated but nodded, stepping back to let Misty take the lead.

With her fiery spirit ignited, Misty prepared to face the trainer. "I'm Misty of the Cerulean Gym. And today, I'll show you the strength of the 'Mermaid of Cerulean City'!"

The crowd fell silent, watching as Misty took her stand.

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