Chapter 0: Shadows of War and Ambition
Author's Motivation
I wanted to write this fanfiction to explore Giovanni as a complex character beyond his typical portrayal as a crime boss. The Johto War is referenced in various Pokémon media, particularly with Lt. Surge's history as a war general and older Kantonian NPCs expressing distrust toward Johto. However, many fanfictions that touch on the war often leave it unexplored. This story seeks to delve deeper, portraying a Giovanni who, while still cunning and ruthless, approaches things differently.
Inspired by fanfictions like Traveler and The New Normal, Rocket's Shadow will focus on war, politics, and team-building. A traditional Pokémon journey will only be introduced much later, from Ash's perspective, after the foundation of the story has been established.
The War That Shaped Kanto
Kanto was once a thriving region, independent and strong. But prosperity breeds complacency, and complacency invites conquest. Johto, backed by its Champion and entrenched traditions, viewed Kanto as an upstart region that needed to be brought under control. What began as territorial disputes over Mt. Silver escalated into a brutal war that continues to reshape the Indigo Region.
Giovanni did not inherit peace—he inherited a battleground. The son of Madame Boss, former leader of Team Rocket, he saw the organization as more than a criminal enterprise. He envisioned it as a disciplined force that could defend Kanto's sovereignty. While others fought for power or revenge, Giovanni fought for something greater: a Kanto free from outside rule.
On the other side, Professor Samuel Oak was once an ambitious trainer. He rose through the ranks, eventually claiming the title of Champion. However, just as he was preparing to retire from competitive battling to pursue his passion for Pokémon research, the war erupted. His knowledge and battle experience became invaluable, forcing him back into the conflict. With his family in danger, Oak is forced to reconcile his past as a trainer with his present as a protector.
Giovanni's Arsenal
1. Charizard (Starter Pokémon)
Moves: Flamethrower, Solar Beam, Smokescreen, Air Slash
History: Giovanni's first and most trusted Pokémon, raised from a Charmander. Charizard bears a deep scar from an early battle, a constant reminder of the hardships they endured together. Unlike most Charizards, it favors a special attacking strategy, using Smokescreen to escape difficult battles when needed.
2. Beedrill
Moves: X-Scissor, Poison Jab, Agility, Fell Stinger
History: One of Giovanni's earliest catches, Beedrill has been with him since childhood. Though not used as often now, it remains a battle-hardened veteran.
3. Raticate
Moves: Hyper Fang, Crunch, Quick Attack, Sucker Punch
History: A fierce and relentless fighter, Raticate was a key part of Giovanni's early journey and remains a useful ally.
4. Rhydon
Moves: Earthquake, Stone Edge, Megahorn, Iron Tail
History: A cornerstone of Giovanni's team, Rhydon embodies raw power and resilience in battle.
5. Nidoking
Moves: Sludge Bomb, Thunderbolt, Earth Power, Ice Beam
History: Caught early in his journey, Nidoking became a crucial force in Giovanni's rise as a trainer and tactician.
6. Nidoqueen
Moves: Superpower, Ice Beam, Toxic Spikes, Earth Power
History: Partnered with Nidoking, Nidoqueen provides balance with a more defensive fighting style.
7. Dugtrio
Moves: Earthquake, Rock Slide, Substitute, Reversal
History: A key part of Giovanni's strategy, Dugtrio's speed allows it to control the battlefield efficiently.
8. Golem
Moves: Explosion, Stone Edge, Stealth Rock, Fire Punch
History: Caught as a Geodude near Pewter City, Golem represents Giovanni's growing mastery of Ground-types.
Over time, Giovanni recognized the strategic value of specializing in Ground-types, shaping his philosophy as both a trainer and a leader.
Professor Oak's Team
1. Charizard (Starter Pokémon)
Moves: Dragon Claw, Flare Blitz, Thunder Punch, Roost
History: Oak's first Pokémon, raised from a Charmander. It grew into a formidable battler, embodying Oak's aggressive yet strategic approach.
2. Dragonite
Moves: Draco Meteor, Thunder Punch, Roost, Ice Beam
History: Oak's strongest Pokémon, raised from a Dratini in his youth. It remains the guardian of the Oak family.
3. Arcanine
Moves: Extreme Speed, Flare Blitz, Wild Charge, Close Combat
History: A symbol of Oak's old battle prowess, Arcanine was raised from a prized Growlithe lineage.
4. Exeggutor
Moves: Psychic, Giga Drain, Sleep Powder, Trick Room
History: A remnant of Oak's days as a researcher, Exeggutor played a crucial role in his early discoveries.
5. Alakazam
Moves: Psychic, Focus Blast, Shadow Ball, Recover
History: A long-time partner, Alakazam's intelligence and speed made it one of Oak's most valuable allies.
6. Nidoking
Moves: Earthquake, Poison Jab, Ice Punch, Thunderbolt
History: A veteran of many battles, Oak's Nidoking has faced off against some of Johto's strongest trainers, including Agatha's Gengar. It represents Oak's adaptability and strength as a trainer.
7. Tauros
Moves: Double-Edge, Earthquake, Zen Headbutt, Iron Head
History: A more recent addition, Tauros represents Oak's aggressive battle style in his prime.