Pokémon: Day Bringer

Haru chuckled as he observed the massive Red Gyarados swimming calmly in the lake, its once ferocious demeanor replaced by a surprising playfulness. The way it nudged its head against Haru's hand and wagged its tail in the water made it seem more like a giant puppy than the terrifying beast they had faced earlier.

"It's definitely surprising," Haru admitted, scratching the Gyarados lightly on its scaled head. "I didn't expect it to be so... friendly. Especially after all the chaos it caused."

James folded his arms, studying the creature with a raised brow. "Friendly, sure, but it's almost like it only evolved physically. Mentally, it still seems to have the temperament of a Magikarp."

Jessie crossed her arms and smirked. "Well, maybe it's a good thing. A Gyarados with that size and aggression would have been impossible to handle."

Casey crouched near the edge of the lake, watching the Gyarados splash water around like an overgrown child playing in a pool. "It's kind of cute, honestly," she said, her Meganium nodding in agreement beside her.

Haru gave a light laugh and patted the Gyarados again. "I guess this proves size doesn't always equal ferocity. But I have to admit, training it might be... interesting."

Jessie's Gyarados swam up to the Red Gyarados, clearly trying to assert dominance. It roared loudly, but the Red Gyarados merely tilted its head, seemingly confused. Then, in a surprising display, it sprayed water at Jessie's Gyarados, who reeled back in shock.

"Okay, now that's just funny," James said, laughing.

Jessie groaned. "Great. My Gyarados just got outclassed by an overgrown Magikarp." She sighed and crossed her arms, glaring at her own Pokémon. "You're lucky you're still useful in battle."

Haru, still amused, turned to his team. "Well, now that the lake is back to normal, we should get moving to Mahogany City. I still need my sixth badge."

As they began packing up, Haru looked back at the Red Gyarados, which seemed reluctant to leave the water. He gave it a reassuring smile. "Don't worry, buddy. I'll make sure you're ready for battles soon enough."

The Red Gyarados let out a happy roar, splashing water everywhere, much to the dismay of everyone nearby.

James wrung out his drenched jacket and sighed. "This journey just keeps getting better and better."

Casey laughed as Meganium shielded her from the spray with its leaves. "Come on, James, admit it. You like the chaos."

James rolled his eyes but couldn't help a small smile. "Maybe just a little."

With spirits high, the group continued their journey, the towering Red Gyarados now an unlikely yet valuable addition to their team.

Haru then opened his Pokédex as he saw it's natural and Ability. Haru stared at his Pokédex screen, eyes wide in disbelief. "It's got Intimidate as its ability, which is already amazing. And it's Adamant Nature—perfect for physical attacks." He paused and then exclaimed, "But its move set... holy fuck!"

James raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "What do you mean, 'holy fuck'? What does it have?"

Haru turned the Pokédex around for everyone to see. "Earthquake, Waterfall, Taunt, and Dragon Dance. A ready-made competitive move set! These are moves I thought I'd have to teach it over time."

Casey's jaw dropped. "Are you serious? It's like someone already trained it to be a powerhouse!"

Jessie crossed her arms, looking slightly annoyed. "Why couldn't my Gyarados come with a perfect move set like that? I had to work hard to teach it anything useful."

James whistled, clearly impressed. "That's one hell of a catch, Haru. With that kind of move set and its size, you're practically set for any tough battles ahead."

Haru grinned, clearly pleased. "Yeah, but it also means I've got to step up my game. A Pokémon like this deserves a trainer who can bring out its full potential. Still, this is going to save me so much time."

Casey nodded in agreement. "You're definitely going to be a threat in your next Gym battle. Just imagine using Dragon Dance to set up and then sweeping with Waterfall or Earthquake!"

Haru smirked. "I'll admit, it's tempting to rely on it for that. But I've got to make sure the rest of my team stays balanced too. Gyarados might be strong, but it's still part of a team."

The Red Gyarados let out a happy roar, seemingly aware of the praise it was receiving. It splashed the water playfully, causing everyone to laugh—except for Jessie, whose hair was now soaking wet.

"Great," Jessie muttered, wringing out her hair. "Another reason to dislike your overachieving Gyarados."

Haru chuckled and patted the Red Gyarados on its head. "Don't worry, buddy. You'll get plenty of chances to shine. But first, we've got to get through Mahogany City and that Gym."

The group continued their journey, the towering Red Gyarados following along in the lake beside them, its presence both awe-inspiring and comforting. With a Pokémon like this on his side, Haru knew he was one step closer to achieving his dreams.

Meanwhile, in Olivine City, Ash stood confidently on the battlefield, facing off against Gym Leader Jasmine. This match had been an intense struggle, with Jasmine's Steelix proving to be a formidable opponent. Ash, however, wasn't one to back down.

"Alright, Typhlosion, it's time to end this! Activate Blaze!" Ash shouted, his voice firm and resolute.

His Hisuian Typhlosion, a Fire/Ghost-type with ethereal flames surrounding its neck, turned to look back at its trainer. It understood the stakes and let out a determined cry. The ghostly flames on its back roared to life, burning brighter and fiercer as its Blaze ability activated. The intensity of the aura around Typhlosion caused the battlefield to shimmer with heat.

Jasmine's Steelix loomed large, its iron-clad body showing signs of wear but still standing strong. Jasmine herself looked calm, yet determined. "Steelix, brace yourself for whatever's coming!"

Ash pointed toward the towering Steelix. "This is it, Typhlosion! Use Eruption—give it everything you've got!"

Typhlosion roared, its spectral flames flaring even larger, enveloping its body in a fiery halo. With a surge of power, it unleashed an immense Eruption, sending a massive wave of molten fire and ghostly energy crashing toward Steelix. The sheer force and heat of the attack were overwhelming.

"Steelix, hold on!" Jasmine called out, but it was too late. The powerful Eruption struck Steelix with devastating impact, and the massive Pokémon let out a pained groan as it collapsed onto the battlefield, defeated.

Jasmine sighed and smiled, recalling her Steelix. "You've proven your strength, Ash. That was an incredible match."

Ash grinned, pumping his fist in the air. "We did it, Typhlosion! Great job, buddy!"

Typhlosion turned back to its trainer, its flames still blazing with intensity, and let out a triumphant cry. It was clear the bond between Ash and his Pokémon had grown even stronger through this battle.

Jasmine approached Ash with a kind smile, holding out a shiny Mineral Badge. "This is proof of your victory at the Olivine Gym. You've earned it."

Ash accepted the badge, holding it up proudly. "Thanks, Jasmine! This was one tough battle, but it was worth it." He turned to Pikachu, who had been cheering from the sidelines. "Five badges down, Pikachu! We're one step closer to the Johto League!"

"Pika-Pika!" Pikachu cheered, leaping onto Ash's shoulder.

As Ash and his team celebrated, the crowd at the gym clapped, recognizing his hard-fought victory. But Ash's journey was far from over. With his fifth badge in hand, he looked toward the next challenge, his determination burning as brightly as Typhlosion's flames.

Misty looked at him. "You know Ash, you really are taking Haru advice well".

Brock looked at Ash. "The fact that you can make Typhlosion use Blaze willing shows your growths".

Ash looked at Typhlosion. "Yeah, but there is still more to do, Haru is way ahead of me, I need to get stronger where did he say he was going".

Misty looked at him, as she didn't feel right. "Are you really going to chase him".

Ash turned to Misty, his expression resolute but with a hint of uncertainty. "Of course I am, Misty. Haru's strong—way stronger than me. He's on a completely different level, and if I don't push myself, I'll never catch up to him. I need to learn from him, grow, and become the kind of trainer who can stand on equal ground with him."

Brock crossed his arms, nodding thoughtfully. "Haru's been a good influence on you, Ash. Learning to control Typhlosion's Blaze like that is no small feat, and it shows you're becoming more strategic. But chasing him just to compare yourself? Are you sure that's the best way to grow?"

Misty frowned, clearly concerned. "Ash, I get that you're determined, but Haru's path isn't yours. You've always been about finding your own way, your own battles. What happens if you keep trying to measure yourself against someone else? Won't you lose sight of what makes you you?"

Ash paused, Misty's words hitting harder than he expected. He glanced at Typhlosion, who looked back at him with unwavering loyalty. "I'm not trying to be him, Misty," Ash said, his tone softening. "I just... I feel like there's so much I don't know yet. Haru's not just strong—he's smart, and he knows how to read situations. I don't want to copy him; I just want to learn what he knows and use it to become the best version of myself."

Brock put a hand on Ash's shoulder. "Then maybe instead of chasing him, you should focus on catching up at your own pace. Haru might be ahead now, but your journey's different from his. You'll grow stronger in your own way, Ash. You always do."

Misty nodded reluctantly. "Just promise me you won't get so caught up in chasing Haru that you forget what's important. You've got your own goals, your own Pokémon, and your own path to follow."

Ash smiled at his friends, their support giving him clarity. "You're right. I won't forget. Haru's out there, and I'll keep learning and growing, but I'll do it my way. Typhlosion and I will get stronger together, and when the time comes, we'll prove ourselves. That's a promise."

Typhlosion let out a fiery roar in agreement, its ghostly flames flickering brightly. Misty and Brock exchanged glances, knowing Ash's determination was unshakable.

"Well," Brock said with a grin, "if that's the case, we'd better get moving. The next Gym isn't going to beat itself."

Ash nodded, his resolve renewed. "Let's go, everyone. We've got a league to win!"

As they headed toward their next adventure, Misty couldn't shake the uneasy feeling in her chest. She glanced back toward the path Haru had taken, wondering if Ash's pursuit of his rival would lead to even greater challenges—or dangers—than they anticipated.

Ash then looked at them. "Alright let's go".

Brock looked at him. "Were Goldenrod to challenge Whitney again or Mahogany town".

Ash stopped as he wonder to him self. "Mahogany city".

Misty once again felt she knew that were Haru went. "If that is what you want".

Ash nodded, his decision made. "Yeah, Mahogany Town. If Haru's anywhere near there, I might learn something just by crossing paths with him again. Plus, there's the Gym there. It's time to face Pryce and test myself against his Ice-type Pokémon."

Brock adjusted his backpack, nodding in approval. "Solid choice. Pryce is a tough Gym Leader—he's got years of experience, and his Ice-types are known for their endurance and tricky strategies. It'll be a good test for you."

Misty, however, remained quiet, her unease growing. She couldn't shake the feeling that Ash's drive to follow Haru was more than just a desire to grow stronger. It felt like Ash was trying to prove something—not just to himself but to Haru as well.

"Alright," Misty finally said, her voice calm but firm. "If that's what you've decided, then let's head to Mahogany Town. But Ash..." She paused, catching his attention. "Just remember, Pryce isn't Haru. Focus on the battle ahead, not the person you're trying to catch up to."

Ash glanced at her, surprised by the seriousness in her tone. "I know, Misty. I won't let myself get distracted. Pryce is my next challenge, and I'm going to give it everything I've got."

Misty forced a small smile, though her worry didn't entirely fade. "Good. Let's go, then."

As the trio set off toward Mahogany Town, the road ahead seemed both familiar and uncertain. While Ash focused on the battles to come, Misty and Brock couldn't help but wonder what awaited them—not just at the next Gym but in the inevitable reunion with Haru.

Back with Haru group, they enter Pryce gym, as they did they saw a battle was already going on the was Silver as they saw he was using Feraligatr to fight Pryce Pokémon he called back before then he sent out his Crobat.

Haru smirked as he watched Silver's Crobat take flight, gracefully dodging an attack from Pryce's Dewgong. "A Crobat, huh? Seems like the universe keeps throwing these Zubat evolutions in my face," Haru said, half to himself, half to his group.

Jessie raised an eyebrow. "You saying you've got a Crobat too? Or just wish you did?"

Haru shrugged. "Not yet. But I've been running into these things everywhere lately. Maybe it's fate, or maybe the universe just likes messing with me."

Silver called out, his voice sharp and focused. "Crobat, use Cross Poison!" The bat Pokémon's wings glowed with a toxic purple aura as it swooped in, landing a clean hit on Dewgong and forcing Pryce to recall it.

Pryce's expression was unreadable as he sent out his next Pokémon, Piloswine. "You're not bad, but battles aren't just about strength. Let's see how you handle strategy. Piloswine, use Ice Shard!"

Silver clenched his fist. "Crobat, dodge and use Confuse Ray!"

Haru leaned against the wall, observing Silver's battle tactics. "He's good," Haru muttered, impressed despite himself. "Aggressive, but he's got some brains behind it too. That Crobat of his is fast and well-trained."

James nodded in agreement. "He's not holding back, that's for sure. And Pryce is a tough opponent—Silver's giving him a run for his money."

Jessie, however, looked unimpressed. "Tch. All this talk about strength and strategy, but where's the style? If you're gonna win, at least do it with flair."

Haru chuckled. "Winning is its own flair, Jessie. Let's see if Silver can pull this off."

As the battle continued, Haru couldn't help but feel a growing curiosity about Silver. There was something about the way he battled—relentless, determined, but with an edge of frustration—that reminded Haru of someone he couldn't quite place.

Pryce narrowed his eyes as his Piloswine stumbled, clearly disoriented by the Confuse Ray. Silver seized the opportunity. "Crobat, finish this with Air Slash!"

Crobat flapped its wings with immense force, sending sharp, slicing gusts of air at Piloswine. The attack landed cleanly, and Piloswine collapsed, unable to battle. Pryce sighed and returned his Pokémon. "Impressive. You've earned this," he said, handing Silver the Glacier Badge.

Silver took it without much fanfare, stuffing it into his jacket. He glanced over his shoulder and noticed Haru and his group watching. His expression shifted to a scowl. "What do you want?" he demanded, his voice sharp and defensive.

Haru smirked, unfazed. "Relax, I'm just here to watch some battles. Didn't know I'd get a front-row seat to your win."

Silver's eyes narrowed. "Haru been a while, I've heard about you. People are saying you've been taking down gym leaders left and right."

"Well, I try," Haru replied casually, his tone deliberately light. "Looks like you're doing pretty well yourself."

Silver huffed, crossing his arms. "Don't compare me to you. I'm not here to make friends or show off. I have my own goals, and I don't need anyone getting in my way."

Haru's grin widened. "Fair enough. But if you're ever looking for a real challenge, you know where to find me."

Silver glared at him for a moment before turning and walking past the group, his Crobat following closely behind. As he passed, Jessie whispered to James, "He's got that whole edgy rival vibe down, doesn't he?"

James nodded. "Classic brooding loner. You love to see it."

Pryce cleared his throat, drawing their attention. "If you're done spectating, are any of you here to challenge me? Or are you just here to chat?"

Haru stepped forward, his confident smirk returning. "I'm up next. Let's see if I can do better than the guy before me."

To be continued

Hope people like this Ch and give me power stones and enjoy