Pokemon : Rewind

Violet City, located in the heart of the Johto Region, is a sprawling urban hub steeped in history and tradition. Known as the "City of Nostalgic Fragrance," it emanates a serene, Zen-like atmosphere.

The city is vast and surrounded by an expansive sea of trees. Within its bounds lies a large, tranquil lake crossed by a bridge that leads to the city's northern edge. Here stands Violet City's most iconic landmark: Sprout Tower.

Sprout Tower is a three-story wooden structure designed with a soft, flexible framework. It constantly sways, giving the illusion of fragility, as though it might topple at any moment.

However, this ingenious design makes it resilient against natural disasters such as earthquakes.

The tower's perpetual movement has made it a spiritual site for monks who come to train in its hallowed halls. 

They believe the swaying symbolizes an unsettled heart, and their ultimate goal is to achieve inner peace so profound that the tower's motion no longer disturbs them.

A popular legend claims that Sprout Tower was built around the central stalk of a Bellsprout over 30 meters tall, its body serving as the structure's main support. 

Though this tale has been debunked, the monks steadfastly hold onto the story. As part of their practice, they train alongside Bellsprout and offer sanctuary to Pokémon in need.

---

After a week-long journey, Ash and his companions finally arrived in Violet City, the location of their first gym challenge. At the moment, the trio stood in line at the Pokémon Center, preparing to check in.

"As expected from a city with a gym, there are so many Trainers here…" Brock remarked, marveling at the bustling crowd inside the Pokémon Center. 

He had also noticed numerous battlefields scattered across the city and, much to his delight, an abundance of beautiful older women. 

If not for Misty's constant vigilance, he would have eagerly struck up conversations with them.

"Brock, if you don't change your behavior, you're never going to find a girlfriend," Ash said with a sigh.

Brock, however, was undeterred. "Ash, you just don't understand… the allure of a mature woman!" He glanced at Nurse Joy and grinned foolishly.

"I don't want to understand…" Ash muttered, shaking his head. Despite his bond with Misty, he was too young to concern himself with such matters.

"Can we not discuss this in front of me?" Misty groaned, pinching the bridge of her nose in exasperation.

Eventually, their turn came. After completing the necessary registration, the trio was assigned a room in the Pokémon Center.

---

The Pokémon Center in Violet City was far more luxurious than those in smaller towns. Their double suite boasted ample space, and Ash and Brock were lucky enough to have a window with a view of Sprout Tower to the north and the shimmering lake nearby.

After unpacking, Ash used the remaining time before lunch to research the Violet Gym. This preparation was crucial for the challenge ahead.

Following a quick meal, the group decided to spend their afternoon exploring Sprout Tower.

---

Sprout Tower was open to the public, with no entry fee. However, the number of visitors allowed at a time was strictly controlled. Upon arrival, Ash and his friends joined a long line of eager tourists.

Only ten people were permitted inside at once, with each group allowed ten minutes to explore. After waiting half an hour, it was finally their turn.

The interior of Sprout Tower was somewhat underwhelming. Apart from the massive central pillar that swayed gently, there wasn't much to see.

"No wonder the visit is limited to ten minutes…" Misty whispered to Ash, careful not to disturb the monks practicing nearby.

"This central pillar is fascinating," Brock said, examining it closely. "I've never seen a structure designed to sway like this—it's ingenious."

The pillar's movement caused the entire tower to quiver subtly. The design was meant to absorb shocks, ensuring the tower's stability even during seismic activity.

The uppermost floor featured a statue of a giant Bellsprout, a nod to the tower's legendary origins. 

However, the rest of the tower was simple and unadorned, reflecting the monks' ascetic lifestyle.

Despite the lack of attractions, the atmosphere within Sprout Tower was serene. The faint scent of sandalwood lingered in the air, and the occasional ringing of bells added to the tranquil ambiance.

For Ash, the visit was more than a peaceful experience. As he stood near the central pillar, he felt a strange stirring deep within him, as though an unknown power was awakening. 

Though the sensation was fleeting, Ash suspected it might be linked to the legendary Aura.

---

After leaving Sprout Tower, the trio spent the rest of the afternoon exploring Violet City. 

While it wasn't a major tourist destination, the city was equipped with all the facilities needed to accommodate the steady influx of Trainers.

By evening, they returned to the Pokémon Center, where Ash retired early to rest and prepare for his gym battle the following day.

With a sense of anticipation bubbling within him, Ash drifted off to sleep, ready to face the challenges ahead.

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