---
Chapter 3: Gym Challenge in Pewter – Secrets Beneath the Stone
Pewter City loomed ahead, nestled against jagged cliffs like a guardian of ancient secrets. The stone buildings echoed with quiet strength, and the massive gym at its center stood like a fortress.
Ash adjusted his black hoodie, Riolu perched on his shoulder. "Finally. First badge."
Joshua walked beside him, hands in his pockets. "We'll test our growth here."
Serena and Misty followed closely, both watching their chosen guys with interest—and maybe just a little possessiveness. Mew floated lazily beside Ash, invisible to normal eyes, while Mewtwo walked confidently at Joshua's side, visible to everyone, drawing stunned stares from civilians.
"She really doesn't care who sees her," Misty muttered.
"She's a legend," Joshua said without looking. "Why should she?"
Inside the Pewter Gym, Brock stood tall and smirking, arms crossed. "Heard some prodigies were coming. Didn't expect Red's sons."
Ash stepped forward. "We're not here for fame. Just the challenge."
"Fair enough," Brock replied, eyes scanning Riolu. "Let's see what you've got."
---
Ash vs. Brock – Aura Ignition
Brock sent out a Graveler, heavy and rumbling with energy.
"Riolu, let's go!"
Ash's Aura flared gold as Riolu charged forward. "Use Aura Dash—then Iron Palm, full burst!"
Riolu blurred with speed, slamming into Graveler's midsection. The impact cracked the gym floor.
Brock's eyes widened. "No way—Graveler, Earthquake!"
The ground split, but Ash stomped forward, pouring his Aura into the bond. "Focus! Counter with Aura Pulse!"
Riolu jumped midair, launched a pulse so condensed it pierced through the quake, sending Graveler flying.
Graveler hit the wall and fainted.
Ash stood still, eyes glowing faintly gold. "One down."
Brock raised a brow, grinning. "Impressive."
---
Joshua vs. Brock – Mind and Might
Brock brought out Onix, the gym's pride.
"Eevee, center!" Joshua said calmly.
Eevee flickered with silvery energy, tail glowing.
"Stone Edge!"
Onix summoned spikes of rock—dozens. Joshua didn't flinch.
"Eevee, Shadow Phase."
Eevee vanished in a blink, dodging every spike like wind. She reappeared directly under Onix's jaw.
"Hyper Pulse!"
A blast of silvery-white energy erupted, blasting Onix off its feet and crashing it into the floor.
Brock's jaw dropped.
Joshua didn't move. "Done."
---
After the Battle – Gym Roof
The group gathered on the gym roof later, the sun setting in waves of orange and violet. Misty sat close to Joshua, while Mewtwo stood quietly beside him.
"I've seen plenty of strong trainers," Misty said softly. "But you're… something else."
Joshua looked at her. "You too. You didn't flinch once during the fight."
She smiled, leaning into him. "I'm stubborn like that."
Mewtwo stepped up, her voice cool. "Your confidence is admirable. But don't confuse attraction with understanding."
Misty arched a brow. "You think you understand him better?"
"I feel him," Mewtwo said, voice low. "Even when he says nothing."
Joshua sighed. "Ladies…"
Misty slid a hand onto his thigh. "Then let's both stay close. See who he reaches for when it counts."
---
Meanwhile, Ash leaned against the ledge, Serena beside him, arms crossed. Mew hovered behind him, twirling her long tail.
"You crushed that match," Serena said. "You're really syncing with Riolu."
"Thanks," Ash said, exhaling. "But it's not just me. It's… all of us."
Mew floated down, brushing her fingers through his hair. "You're glowing, y'know."
Ash stiffened. "Mew—what are you—?"
"Relax," she purred, nuzzling against his cheek. "I like this form. I like how you look at me in it."
Serena stepped between them. "Okay, that's enough. He's mine."
Mew blinked. "But he hasn't chosen yet."
Serena grabbed Ash's collar and pulled him in for a brief but fiery kiss. "He will."
Ash's eyes went wide. Mew just smiled. "Oh, this is fun."
---
Later That Night – Pewter Inn
Ash and Joshua shared a suite—luxury of being Red's kids. Their Pokémon rested nearby, and a warm fire lit the room.
Ash sat on the bed, Riolu curled at his side. "Mew's... intense."
Joshua was reading, but looked up. "So is Mewtwo. She doesn't ask—she just knows."
"You okay with that?"
Joshua smirked faintly. "We're drawn together. It's more than instinct. It's almost... primal."
Ash stared into the fire. "Do you ever wonder why us? Why would they choose us?"
"They didn't choose us," Joshua said slowly. "We were made for this. All of it."
Ash nodded slowly.
Then the door opened quietly.
Mewtwo stepped in first, clad in a white silk robe. Her hair fell around her shoulders, eyes glowing faintly. Behind her, Mew floated in wearing nothing but her human form's natural shimmer—soft, smooth, and glowing with pink aura.
Joshua raised an eyebrow. "...You're both bold tonight."
Mewtwo walked to him, placed a hand on his cheek. "We need to grow closer. Physically, emotionally, spiritually."
Joshua met her gaze, heart beating louder.
Mew floated to Ash, her aura warming the air. "If you want me… say it."
Serena and Misty stood just outside the door, watching. Serena's eyes blazed, Misty's lips pressed tight.
Joshua reached forward—his hand grazing Mewtwo's waist.
Ash exhaled. "I want this. I want you."
The girls stepped inside.
And the night… turned electric.
---
End of Chapter 3