The sound of water reached them before the city did.
It was everywhere once they noticed it—flowing canals, splashing fountains, the distant rush of something larger and constant. Cerulean City rose ahead in soft blues and pale stone, bridges arching over clear streams that caught the sunlight.
Ash slowed as they crossed the first bridge, leaning over the rail to look down. Pokémon darted beneath the surface, quick shadows against the riverbed.
"Water types," Maya said, already scanning the movement. "They like cities like this. Stable food, clean flow."
Ash nodded. "Looks peaceful."
"That's one side of it," she replied.
They didn't head for the Gym right away. Instead, they followed the canal path, letting the city settle around them. Trainers passed by in small groups, some confident, some frustrated. Ash watched a battle from across the water—two Pokémon trading splashes and sharp movements.
He didn't stop. He didn't join.
Charizard drew looks as they walked, mostly curious glances. A few people slowed, whispering, but nothing more. Charizard ignored them all, tail flame steady, steps unhurried.
They paused near a public training area by the water's edge. Ash released Sandshrew again, letting it feel the ground. It hesitated near the canal, claws digging in reflexively.
Maya crouched beside it. "Ground types don't like wet footing. Don't force it close."
Ash nodded and guided Sandshrew back onto drier stone. "We'll work around it."
Rattata ran short bursts again, skidding slightly on the smooth path before adjusting. Ash watched carefully, correcting his timing.
Pidgey hopped down, wings fluttering once. It lifted a foot, then another, testing balance more than flight.
"Not yet," Ash said gently.
Pidgey chirped, dissatisfied but compliant.
A splash drew Ash's attention. Something surfaced briefly near the canal edge, fins slicing water before disappearing again.
Ash reached for his Pokédex out of habit, then stopped.
Maya noticed. "You already know it's a Water type. You don't need the name yet."
Ash smiled. "Yeah."
They moved on as afternoon faded. The city grew busier near the Gym district. Music drifted from one building, laughter echoing from another. The Cerulean Gym stood out, bright and polished, doors wide open.
Ash stopped across the street.
He watched for a long moment.
"Not today?" Maya asked.
Ash shook his head. "Not yet."
Charizard paused beside him, looking at the Gym, then back at Ash. It didn't step forward.
They turned away instead, heading toward the quieter side streets where the Pokémon Center waited.
As evening settled over Cerulean City, Ash felt the familiar pull of anticipation—but also restraint. The challenge was close.
He just wasn't rushing it anymore.
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T/N:
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