Gary arrived at the Pokémon Center in Cerulean City after his long journey through Mt. Moon.
"Mr. Gary, your Pokémon have all recovered," Nurse Joy said with a warm smile, handing him a tray of Poké Balls. Five Poké Balls sat neatly in their grooves, with one slot still empty, though Gary suspected it wouldn't remain that way for long.
"Thank you," Gary said, taking the tray and securing his Poké Balls on his belt. With his team back in shape, he made his way to the Cerulean City Police Station for an important task.
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The Police Station Visit
Inside the police station's lobby, a uniformed officer greeted him.
"Excuse me, young man, how can I assist you?" the officer asked, noting Gary's presence.
"Hello, my name is Gary, and I'm here to adopt a Growlithe," Gary replied confidently.
"Do you have anything to prove your identity?" the officer asked. Although they had been informed about someone named Gary coming to adopt a Growlithe, they needed to verify his credentials.
Gary handed over his Pokémon Pokédex. "This should confirm who I am."
The officer inspected the Pokédex, pressing its button. Professor Oak's familiar voice emerged from the device:
"This Pokédex belongs to Pallet Town's Trainer, Gary."
A photo of Gary appeared on the screen as further proof.
"Everything checks out. Please follow me," the officer said, leading Gary to the station's backyard, where the Pokémon breeding area was located.
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The Growlithe Breeding House
The Cerulean City Police Station had its own breeding house, where canine Pokémon such as Growlithe and Arcanine were raised to support law enforcement efforts.
When they arrived, the officer called out to Colby, the breeder responsible for the Growlithe.
"Colby, the Trainer here to adopt a Growlithe has arrived. Bring them all out," the officer said.
Colby, a stern-faced man in his mid-thirties, approached Gary with a guarded expression. He was dedicated to the Pokémon he raised and wasn't easily impressed by Trainers who sought to adopt them.
"You're Gary, right?" Colby asked.
"Yes, that's me," Gary replied.
Colby scrutinized him for a moment. "While you may be qualified to adopt a Growlithe, as their caretaker, I need to ensure that you're capable of raising one properly."
Gary raised an eyebrow. "Are you suggesting a battle?"
Colby nodded. "Exactly. If you want to adopt one of my Growlithe, you'll need to prove your strength as a Trainer."
The officer accompanying them looked uneasy. "Colby, what are you doing? This is unnecessary. The boy has been vouched for by Professor Oak himself!"
"It's fine," Gary said calmly. "If Mr. Colby wants to test my skills, I'm happy to oblige."
Colby smirked. "Good. If you win, I'll let you choose any Growlithe you like."
Gary realized Colby's intent—without this battle, he might have been given a Growlithe with average potential. Winning would allow him to select a stronger companion.
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The Battle Begins
The group moved to the station's battle arena, a cleared field behind the breeding house. Several police officers gathered to watch the match unfold.
"We'll keep this fair. A one-on-one battle," Colby said.
"Fine by me," Gary replied.
Colby threw out his Poké Ball. "Herdier, let's go!"
With a flash of light, a Herdier appeared. The loyal canine Pokémon barked sharply, ready to battle.
Pokémon: Herdier ♂
Level: 26
Type: Normal
Gary assessed the opponent. "Not bad, but it won't be enough."
He casually tossed a Poké Ball into the air. "Golbat, you're up!"
With a screech, Golbat emerged, flapping its wings menacingly.
Pokémon: Golbat ♂
Level: 22
Type: Poison/Flying
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The Strategy
Colby frowned. Herdier's lack of long-range moves put him at a disadvantage against the airborne Golbat.
"Herdier, use Work Up!" Colby commanded.
Herdier barked loudly, its body glowing red as its Attack and Special Attack stats increased.
"Golbat, counter with Supersonic!" Gary ordered.
Golbat emitted a piercing soundwave that struck Herdier directly, causing the canine to stumble as confusion took hold.
"Herdier, shake it off and attack!" Colby shouted, but Herdier's movements were erratic, and it stumbled, striking itself in confusion.
Gary smirked. "Finish this quickly. Use Poison Fang!"
Golbat dove toward the disoriented Herdier, sinking its fangs into its opponent. A faint purple glow signaled the effect of the poison spreading through Herdier's system.
"Herdier, use Tackle!" Colby called, but Herdier's confusion persisted, and it failed to act effectively.
Gary saw his opening. "Golbat, end this with Absorb!"
Golbat unleashed a green energy beam, draining Herdier's remaining strength and restoring some of its own energy. Herdier collapsed, unable to continue.
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Victory and a New Ally
"Herdier is unable to battle. Golbat wins!" the referee declared.
Colby recalled Herdier, visibly disappointed but respectful. "You're stronger than I expected. I can see that you'll take good care of Growlithe."
Gary nodded. "Thank you. I'll do my best."
Colby led Gary back to the breeding area, where several Growlithe eagerly awaited adoption. Gary carefully observed each one before selecting a confident and energetic Growlithe with a gleaming coat.
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New Pokémon Added:
Pokémon: Growlithe ♂
Type: Fire
Level: 15
Gary smiled as he secured Growlithe's Poké Ball. "Welcome to the team, Growlithe."
The day had proven challenging but rewarding. With a new ally by his side, Gary was ready for the next leg of his journey.
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