Chapter 19: Central Knowledge

Ash followed Misty to the Pokémon Center's treatment area, where Nurse Joy was busy attending to trainers and their Pokémon. A line of trainers stood ahead of them, each waiting their turn to have their Pokémon examined.

"We should get in line. Once Nurse Joy checks Pikachu, we'll head to the dormitory to freshen up and then grab something to eat," Misty said, pulling Ash to the end of the line.

"Alright," Ash nodded, deferring to Misty's guidance. He was grateful to have her around—navigating this new world alone would have been daunting.

As they waited, Ash observed Nurse Joy at work. Like Officer Jenny, Nurse Joy came from a well-known family. Her family members, identical in appearance, staffed Pokémon Centers across the region. Joy had a warm, friendly demeanor, with pink hair tied into two rings behind her head, dressed in a white nurse's uniform. Her presence exuded kindness, putting trainers and Pokémon alike at ease.

Ash watched as Nurse Joy greeted each trainer with a gentle smile, asking about their Pokémon's condition before placing their Poké Balls on a diagnostic machine. The machine analyzed the Pokémon's status, and Joy would then relay instructions to Chansey, her assistant. Chansey, along with several others, promptly carried the Poké Balls to the treatment room.

"This process is so different from the anime and games," Ash murmured, fascinated. In the games, healing Pokémon was a simple matter of placing Poké Balls on a machine and waiting a few seconds. The anime, on the other hand, often showed Nurse Joy handling everything herself. The real process was far more complex and efficient, with multiple Chanseys assisting in the treatment.

Finally, it was Misty's turn. She handed over two Poké Balls and explained her Pokémon's condition. After a brief analysis, Nurse Joy reassured her. "There's nothing serious—just fatigue. After a good rest, they'll be back to full strength."

Misty nodded, thanked her, and stepped aside, allowing Ash to step forward with Pikachu. Nurse Joy's eyes lit up at the sight of Pikachu perched on Ash's shoulder.

"Hello there, Pikachu!" she said warmly as she gently lifted Pikachu. After a quick examination, she smiled at Ash. "Your Pikachu is healthy but has expended a lot of energy. Make sure it eats well and rests tonight, and it will recover fully by morning."

"Thank you, Nurse Joy," Ash said, taking Pikachu back.

"Pika-pika!" Pikachu added, waving a tiny paw at Nurse Joy, earning a laugh from her.

With their Pokémon checked, Ash and Misty headed toward the dormitory section of the Pokémon Center.

"Thank you so much for today, Misty," Ash said earnestly as they walked. "I'd be lost without your help."

"We're friends now, Ash. You don't need to keep thanking me," Misty replied with a smile, though his gratitude warmed her heart.

When Ash checked his Pokédex for their assigned room, he noticed something surprising. "Wait… Misty, we're in the same dormitory?"

"Of course," she said nonchalantly. "Dorms are limited in Pokémon Centers, so it's normal to share, especially since we're traveling together. In some cases, trainers even share rooms with strangers."

Ash hesitated. Sharing a room with Misty felt strange, but he didn't argue. When they reached their dormitory, they found it modest but cozy. The room featured a bunk bed, a small table, a simple balcony, and a private bathroom.

Misty set her things down, then froze as realization dawned on her: she would be sharing a room with a boy she barely knew. Her cheeks reddened as she fumbled for words.

"This… this isn't… I didn't think…" she stammered, suddenly feeling awkward.

Ash, noticing her discomfort, quickly offered, "I can step outside if that helps?"

Misty sighed, trying to calm herself. "It's fine. Just don't look over here."

"I promise I won't peek," Ash assured her, grabbing Pikachu and heading to the balcony to give her privacy.

Once Ash was out of sight, Misty rummaged through her backpack, hastily pulling out her clothes and rushing to the bathroom. She wanted to freshen up quickly before her embarrassment overwhelmed her.

Ash, meanwhile, stood on the balcony, gazing at the bustling city lights. Pikachu sat on his shoulder, equally mesmerized by the view. The two shared a quiet moment, reflecting on their journey so far.

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After Misty finished, she stepped out of the bathroom, looking refreshed but still a bit flustered. Ash entered after her, quickly washing up and returning to find her sitting on the lower bunk, sorting through her belongings.

"Thanks for being patient," she said, her voice softer than usual.

"No problem," Ash replied with a grin. He climbed into the top bunk with Pikachu, pulling out a blanket from his backpack.

As the two settled in for the night, Misty broke the silence. "Tomorrow, we should explore the city a bit before continuing our journey. Maybe we can train your Pikachu against some local trainers. It'll be good practice."

Ash nodded enthusiastically. "That sounds great! I want to get stronger and see what Pikachu can really do."

Pikachu chirped in agreement, its cheeks sparking faintly in excitement.

As sleep claimed them, both Ash and Misty felt a growing sense of camaraderie. Though their journey had only just begun, they knew they would face whatever challenges lay ahead—together.

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(End of Chapter)

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