After accepting the mission from the union center, Alex did not rush to set off immediately. He understood clearly that careful preparation was the key to safety and success on such dangerous journeys.
First, Alex spent time buying necessary supplies in Rustboro city. He purchased a large quantity of Repel — an essential item for trainers who often venture into the wild. When sprayed, Repel emits a strong scent that is extremely unpleasant to wild Pokémon, helping to drive away weaker ones nearby. This passive defense was very effective to avoid unnecessary trouble.
Not stopping there, Alex also bought a large stock of chocolates — Mawile's favorite treat. He thought that when necessary, tossing a piece of chocolate might attract Mawile's attention, easing pressure in critical situations or providing a chance to escape.
Everything was ready. Alex carefully packed his backpack, glanced around the bustling city one last time before setting out. It was May, the sun was gentle, and the air carried a salty breeze from the sea. A hot summer day, but not overwhelmingly so. The cool sea breeze made Alex feel comfortable and refreshed.
Now, he was sitting on a passenger ship heading toward Dewford Town, a small island famous for its long beaches and excellent surfing spots. Although it wasn't peak tourist season, the ship was still filled with the lively chatter of passengers, mingled with the gentle sound of waves lapping against the hull.
As he gazed at the vast blue sea, Alex noticed the captain's frown and worried expression. He approached and asked:
"You seem unhappy. What's wrong?"
The captain sighed and looked into the distance:
"Normally, even off-season, many trainers come to challenge the local Fighting-type gym. But now it's completely different…"
He shook his head, voice heavy:
"Brawly, the Gym Leader, has closed the gym for a special reason, and no tourists are coming. It's really hard to run a business like this."
Alex pondered: "Brawly isn't here?"
The captain nodded:
"He went to meet Professor Birch to investigate the incident in the Rock Cave, but so far they haven't found the cause. It's a pity."
The conversation helped Alex better understand the current situation of Dewford Town and the common concerns of its people.
He gently reassured the captain before asking for more details about the Rock Cave and the Mawile.
The ship gradually docked. Dewford Town appeared before Alex — a small, beautiful, peaceful island with white sandy beaches and clear blue sea sparkling in the sunlight.
However, due to the Mawile attacks, the atmosphere was unusually gloomy and deserted. Most shops and eateries were shuttered, turning the once bustling area into a quiet and eerie place.
Without wasting time, Alex strapped his sturdy backpack tighter and headed straight toward Rock Cave — where the mission awaited.
The Rock Cave was not an ordinary cave. Thanks to its unique geological terrain, inside was a wondrous world with many unique landscapes, once a popular tourist attraction in Dewford.
But now, the appearance of aggressive Mawile had scared visitors away. The previously lively atmosphere had turned cold and oppressive.
As Alex approached the entrance, the Poké Ball on his waist vibrated softly.
He pressed the button and released his two familiar Pokémon.
Lucario stepped out first, sharp eyes scanning the area. Instantly, it communicated with Alex through their special bond only they could understand.
"There's an aura here that I don't like."
Alex frowned, responding, "You don't like the smell?"
Lucario turned its head to Kirlia standing beside.
Kirlia spoke softly but clearly:
"Inside... it's very hot..."
Lucario nodded rapidly:
"Yes! Very hot!"
Alex was a little surprised, "Hot? May is still pretty cool this time of year."
He asked a few more questions but both Pokémon couldn't specify what exactly was making them feel so uncomfortably warm.
Without wasting time, Alex sprayed a layer of Repel on both Pokémon to prevent wild Pokémon nearby from disturbing them. He led them inside.
The cave was not too dark, thanks to the lighting system installed for tourism.
Alex carefully stepped forward, eyes alert.
Just a few steps in, suddenly two Mawile appeared from the dark shadows on either side.
They showed no hint of calm — their eyes glowing red and the large jaws on their heads seemed ready to tear everything apart.
Basic info about Mawile flashed in Alex's mind:
Type: Steel / Fairy
Ability: Hyper Cutter — prevents attack reduction.
Appearance: Small yellow doll-like body, but with a terrifying large jaw growing from the back of its head.
Alex quickly commanded:
"Lucario, use Focus Blast on the one on the left! Kirlia, Hypnosis the one on the right!"
Lucario responded with a powerful punch, tossing the left Mawile aside.
Kirlia closed its eyes, creating sparkling rings of light, hypnotizing the Mawile on the right, causing it to stand still, relaxing its body.
After handling the first two Mawile, Alex was about to move deeper when other Pokémon began emerging from hidden corners, seemingly agitated by the noise.
All had red, fierce eyes, aggressive like the two Mawile before.
Alex muttered, "Damn, not only Mawile rebelling? Why are the other Pokémon like this too?"