CHAPTER 9: THE AZURE WATERS OF CERULEAN! A SPLASH OF POKEMON WONDER!

*Author's note: I'll upload this earlier because I will not be uploading on Weekends for I am attending an event. So have fun on the new chapter, trainers!

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

As Kasumi and I reached the end of Route 5, a breathtaking sight greeted our eyes—the Azure Waters of Cerulean City. The city was nestled beside a crystal-clear lake, its vibrant blue hues sparkling under the warm sun. The gentle lapping of the water against the shore added a soothing rhythm to the air, inviting them to explore its aquatic wonders.

"The Cerulean City! We made it!" both of us happily said while looking at each other and start to high five both of our hands up in the air.

As Both Kasumi and I stepped in Cerulean City, the familiar voice of the system chimed in, announcing his arrival with a cheerful,

[Ding! Host reached his first City after adventuring!]

The system, in its benevolence, decided to reward Haru for reaching this significant milestone on his journey.

Suddenly, a holographic screen materialized in front of Haru, displaying a selection of items and options. The system's voice resonated through the air, though telepathically to me.

[Congratulations, Haru! You have made remarkable progress on your Pokémon journey. As a token of appreciation from the Creator, please choose a gift from the following options:

Pokédex Upgrade: This option would enhance not just the Host's Pokédex, but also Kasumi's Pokedex, providing them with additional information on Pokémon species, their habitats, and unique characteristics. It would prove invaluable in expanding both of your knowledge and aiding the two of you in encounters with new Pokémon.

Evolutionary Stone: The Host could select an Evolutionary Stone of his choice, allowing one of his Pokémon to undergo a remarkable transformation. From the Fire Stone that could evolve certain Fire-type Pokemon to the Water Stone for Water-type Pokemon, The Leaf Stone that could evolve certain Grass-type Pokemon to Thunderstone that could evolve certain Electric-type Pokemon, the choice was his to make.

Rare Pokémon Egg: The Host could receive a mysterious Pokémon Egg, containing a rare and unique Pokémon yet to hatch. Nurturing and raising this Pokémon from its early stages of life would offer a special and rewarding bond between trainer and Pokémon. (Host Have not yet claimed the previous egg reward)

Technical Machines (TMs): Host could choose a set of TMs, powerful moves that could be taught to his Pokémon, enhancing their battle capabilities and widening their movepool. ]

"I still have an egg to claim, TM would be good too but I want my Pokemon to learn moves with their hardwork. I have the three evolutionary stones. So, System! I'll pick the Pokedex Upgrade for both Kasumi and I!" Haru firmly declared.

[Ding! Host picked the Pokedex Upgrade! Upgrade will be done in the next 24 hours.]

Then I looked away at the System and look at Kasumi who is like a fanatic little lady and quickly shook my head, "C'mon Kasumi! Let's explore this City!"

"Let's Go Haru!!!" Kasumi shouted happily. As the two of us are eager to immerse ourselves in the vibrant Pokémon culture that Cerulean City was known for, Kasumi and I wasted no time in venturing deeper into the city. We strolled along the bustling streets, lined with vibrant shops and bustling trainers exchanging stories of their Pokémon adventures. The atmosphere hummed with excitement and the energy of passionate trainers.

The Cerulean Gym, renowned for its Water-type Pokémon trainers, stood as a beacon of challenge and opportunity. My heart raced with anticipation as I envisioned the battles that awaited me within its walls. Kasumi, although not as excited as me in terms of battling, was captivated by the grace and beauty of Water-type Pokémon, couldn't wait to witness their skills firsthand.

"I will definitely battle this gym tomorrow!" Kasumi said while clenching her little fist, looking at the gym with fiery and eager expression.

While I look at Kasumi speechlessly, I agreed to her then said, "Okay, after you I'll battle it so we can get our first gym badge before we visit Professor Oak." looking at the Gym, I quickly said, "Let's explore the City first."

The two of us then explore the City before we could test our strength in the gym. Then we look at the nearest place in the gym and we saw the so-called, Pokémon Center here in the Cerulean City. Don't get me wrong but there is no Pokemon Center in Lagoon Town for we go to my parents' and Kasumi's parents for healing if we need healing and some stuff. Though let me explain what is a Pokemon Center. From what I've heard and what I've seen in the book, it is a haven for weary trainers and their Pokémon, beckoned them with open doors. Inside, the soothing melodies of healing Pokémon and the friendly chatter of fellow trainers created a comforting ambiance.

*Swoooosh

The Door Opened at the Pokemon Center.....

At the Pokémon Center, they met Nurse Joy, a kind-hearted caretaker who welcomed them with a warm smile.

"Hello, and welcome to the Pokémon Center. We restore your tired Pokémon to full health. Would you like to rest your Pokémon?" Nurse Joy said to us.

"Yes Please!" Both of us said eagerly.

"Okay, I'll take your Pokémon for a while." as Nurse Joy said that, A a pink, egg-shaped Pokémon with stubby arms and dark pink feet. It has tiny eyes and three hair-like growths on each side of its head. The tufts of hair have dark pink tips. On the center of its belly is a dark pink pouch that contains a single white egg. Finally, it has a short tail.

"Oh! You are curious on who this Pokemon Is? Her name is Chansey. Every Pokemon Center are with Nurse Joy's and Chansey with them here in Kanto Region." Nurse Joy explained. She also provided us with essential services, healing our Pokémon and offering valuable advice for our upcoming battles.

Both Kasumi and I nodded to Nurse Joy's explanation. With their teams fully restored and ready for action, Haru and Kasumi felt a surge of confidence.

Our next stop was the Cerulean City Poké Mart, a treasure trove of items that could aid us in our journey. The shelves were stocked with potions, Poké Balls, and a variety of other useful supplies. Both of us carefully selected items to bolster our supplies, ensuring our were well-equipped for any challenge that lay ahead.

"Haru! I'll buy this, and this, and that! Un! Un! I'll also buy -" Before Kasumi use all the Money that she have, I quickly grab her and apologized to the store clerk and glare at her.

"Hehehe" Kasumi stick her tongue out cutely. I just sigh and we quickly continue to explore the City. The highlight of our visit to Cerulean City was yet to come. The shimmering Cerulean Cape stretched along the lakeshore, inviting trainers and tourists alike to take in its beauty. Both Kasumi and I couldn't resist the allure of the azure waters and the promise of encountering Pokémon unique to this serene environment.

As we walked along the sandy beach, the refreshing mist from the lake brushed against our skin. The air carried the distant cries of water-dwelling Pokémon, hinting at the vibrant marine life that thrived beneath the surface. Kasumi and I gazed out at the glittering expanse, our eyes filled with wonder.

Curiosity get the better of us, I unclipped a Poké Ball from my belt and released both Eevee and Pidgey. Both Eevee and Pidgey play and jump excitedly in the sand, taking the pleasure of their newfound freedom in the beach. Kasumi followed suit, releasing her Jigglypuff and Piplup, which both Pokemon bounced happily on the beach, spreading joy with its melodic tunes. While Piplup played in the water, often spraying water towards Eevee.

Even us, the trainers, were eager to explore the aquatic realm. Kasumi and I walk with effort into the azure waters, feeling the cool embrace of the lake around our ankles. As we ventured deeper, the water enveloped us, bringing forth a variety of Pokémon. Magikarp, Goldeen, and even a majestic Lapras made appearances, enchanting the young trainers with their beauty and grace.

The two of us couldn't resist the urge to engage in battle and to capture one, we tested our skills against the Water-type Pokémon we encountered.

"Pidgey, Go!" Then Pidgey leaped into action, showcasing its newfound strength and agility. Kasumi's Jigglypuff enchanted opponents with its mesmerizing melodies, leaving them vulnerable to its attacks. Victories were hard-fought, but with each battle, Haru and Kasumi's bond with their Pokémon deepened.

[Ding! Magikarp has been caught!

Rewards: 200 Pokedollars, 20% experience for both Pidgey and Eevee ]

[Ding! Eevee leveled up to 11!] [ +10 Friendship gained!]

"Awesome!" Haru exclaimed.

"Haru! I've caught a Lapras! I've let Jigglypuff used Sing and Piplup used Peck and I captured it!" Kasumi happily and proudly said.

"Good for you! but don't use more than one Pokemon when you are battling One. If it's a two versus two then you can use two."

"I know that! But I can't defeat it without any distraction so that is why I did it." Kasumi pouted.

"Now, now, let's go heal up our Pokemon and rest for the day." Haru said while comforting his little childhood friend who is one year older than him.

"Okay!" Kasumi nodded.

As the sun began its descent, casting a warm golden glow across the Cerulean City skyline, Haru and Kasumi reluctantly left the captivating waters behind. The memories of their encounters and the sense of accomplishment lingered, fueling their determination to succeed.

The Azure Waters of Cerulean had not only offered breathtaking beauty but had also ignited a spark within Haru and Kasumi. The journey ahead held even greater challenges and wonders, but with their hearts set on becoming Pokémon champions, they were prepared to dive into the depths of the unknown, eager to discover the splendors that awaited them on their path to greatness.