Chapter 10: Cerulean City

After a long and exhausting journey, Julian finally caught sight of Cerulean City.

Julian sighed, realizing, "It was a terrible idea not to take a break and keep walking. The first thing I'll do is head to the Pokémon Center to rest."

Chimchar gazed at Julian, clearly concerned.

Julian reassured his Pokémon, saying, "Don't worry, buddy. I just need a little rest, and I'll be back to my old self."

As he entered Cerulean City, Julian wasted no time heading straight for the Pokémon Center. He handed over his Pokémon to Nurse Joy, instructing her to let them play until he returned. Renting a room, he succumbed to exhaustion, falling asleep for a much-needed four hours.

Upon waking, Julian refreshed himself with a quick wash and set off to retrieve his Pokémon. Today, he had plans to explore the city, with a particular interest in checking out the gym to see if there was a water show in progress.

After reuniting with his Pokémon, Julian couldn't resist some playful banter with Nurse Joy before leaving the Pokémon Center. He strolled through the city, making a stop at the mall to replenish his Pokémon candies and purchase ingredients for their meals. Along the way, as he passed various shops, his eyes caught sight of a vehicle showroom.

Julian pondered, "Should I really buy it? I don't know... Ah, forget it. I'll think about it later."

Setting aside the thought of the vehicle showroom for now, he made his way toward the Cerulean Gym. Upon arrival, he noticed a large crowd queued up, eagerly waiting to enter the gym.

Julian remarked, "Looks like my instinct was right. They're putting on a water show. Let's go inside and see just how strong the Pokémon in this gym are."

Julian headed to the ticket counter and purchased his ticket. Joining the line, he couldn't help but feel annoyed, despite his vast experience and patience from his past adventures. People around him pushed and jostled, making the wait unpleasant. Despite his irritation, he chose to keep quiet.

After a seemingly endless 15 minutes, Julian finally stepped inside the gym. He found a seat in the top-right corner, catching sight of three captivating ladies he remembered well—Daisy, Violet, and Lily, known as The Sensational Sisters. Each of them had their Pokémon companions: Daisy with Luvdisc, Violet with Goldeen, and Lily with Seaking and a Seel.

Julian quietly observed the Sensational Sisters' Pokémon performances and remarked to himself, "These Pokémon may not be overly powerful, but they can be tricky underwater. They could pose a challenge for Ivysaur, and Chimchar is definitely not an option. Thankfully, I have Gyarados, and he can handle them effortlessly."

Glancing around the gym, Julian noticed Misty sitting in a corner, engrossed in the show. Respecting her privacy and not wanting to appear inappropriate, he redirected his attention to the Sensational Sisters.

Julian continued, "While they're undoubtedly beautiful, I don't think I'll be spending time with them today. I'll return tomorrow to challenge the gym and earn my Cascade Badge."

Julian left the gym after the show concluded. As he headed back to the Pokémon Center, he found himself standing in front of the vehicle showroom once more.

Julian muttered to himself, "Ah, to heck with it. Walking for days just to get from one place to another is getting old."

He stepped inside the showroom, determined to find a suitable mode of transportation. In his mind, he weighed his options, thinking, "Well, I'll be traveling both on and off the road, so speed doesn't matter as much as suspension and durability. I think I should go for an off-road bike."

As he perused the bikes on display, one caught his eye—a perfect fit for his needs, resembling a Ducati Multistrada 1200 Enduro. His excitement surged at the sight of the beautiful bike. No matter how old you are, the prospect of a new vehicle always brings a thrill.

Julian began browsing the selection of bikes when he noticed a saleswoman approaching.

The saleswoman greeted him politely, "Sir, how may I assist you?"

Julian pointed to the bike he had his eye on and replied, "I want to buy this bike."

Upon seeing Julian's interest in the bike, the saleswoman smiled and informed him, "Sir, this bike is priced at 17,000 Poké Dollars."

Hearing the price, Julian's heart sank momentarily, but his determination prevailed. He had already developed a fondness for the bike and resolved to obtain the necessary funds by defeating the Cerulean Gym.

Julian nodded resolutely and said, "Alright, I'll take it."

Upon Julian's confirmation of his decision to purchase the bike, the saleswoman excused herself to call her manager.

The manager, a middle-aged man with a portly appearance that matched his merchant-like aura, approached Julian.

Manager: "So, it's this young man who wants to buy the bike?"

Julian nodded and replied, "Yes, indeed. I really like this bike."

The manager, seemingly pleased with Julian's choice, remarked, "You certainly have a keen eye for quality. It's the finest one we have in stock. Follow me to my office, and we'll get the paperwork sorted out."

Julian followed the manager and the saleswoman into the office. However, as he entered, he noticed an awkward moment when the saleswoman hurriedly concealed something on the table, her face turning red with embarrassment. Julian was briefly taken aback by the situation, sensing the growing tension in the room. To diffuse the awkwardness, he swiftly changed the subject.

Julian said, "Manager, let's get the paperwork done quickly."

The manager, who had been momentarily thrown off by the situation, refocused on business and replied, "Ah, yes, indeed. Let's finish it quickly."

The manager started preparing the documents, and Julian handed over his ID card, which also served as a credit card. After completing the paperwork, the manager provided Julian with the documents and the keys to the bike.

Manager: "Customer, you should register your vehicle at the police station. Officer Jenny will assist you with that."

Julian nodded and said, "Alright, I'll head there now."

The showroom workers readied the bike for Julian, and once everything was in order, he rode away to the police station.

As he drove, Julian reflected on the earlier incident with a wry smile. He thought to himself, "Well, I shouldn't be too surprised. Such situations are common, even if they aren't shown on TV in my previous world. Humans are driven by desire, passion, and money. They could have at least waited until work hours were over."

Julian arrived outside the police station after a short ride.

Officer Jenny's POV

Officer Jenny was sitting at her desk, her attention focused on her work when she heard the sound of a bike stopping in front of the station. She swiftly gathered her makeup accessories and placed them inside her bag. After a moment, she noticed a young man approaching with a friendly smile.

Jenny thought to herself, "OMG HE IS SOO HOT"

She greeted him, saying, "Hello, sir. How may I assist you today? Any specific reason for your visit or any concerns to address?"

Jenny maintained her professionalism as Julian spoke.

Julian: "No complaints. I'm actually here to ask if you'd like to go on a date with me."

Jenny thought to herself, "An invitation? That's unexpected."

Jenny was pleasantly surprised by Julian's invitation. Thoughts raced through her mind as she considered the prospect of a date. It had been over a year since her last relationship ended, and she longed for a romantic connection. She hoped this date would be different from her previous experiences, which had left her unfulfilled.

Meanwhile, Julian couldn't help but notice Jenny's enthusiastic response. Her excitement was palpable, and he found it intriguing. He decided to playfully tease her a little, knowing that tonight wouldn't be a lonely one for either of them.

Julian couldn't help but be surprised by Officer Jenny's reaction, but he decided to handle the situation with humor.

Julian chuckled and said, "Haha, I'm just joking, Officer Jenny. I came here to ask for your assistance in registering my bike."

Officer Jenny's initial fantasy was abruptly interrupted, and for a moment, she seemed taken aback. However, her years of experience helped her regain her composure.

Jenny, though initially caught off guard by Julian's earlier remark, remained composed and professional.

Jenny asked, "Can you please provide your vehicle registration number?"

After completing all the necessary paperwork to ensure his bike was legally registered, Julian prepared to leave. He noticed that Jenny appeared somewhat disappointed.

Julian, maintaining a friendly demeanor, said, "Officer Jenny, if you're genuinely interested, the date offer is still open."

Jenny, while tempted, remained cautious this time.

Jenny warned, "This isn't another joke, is it? If it is, I won't hesitate to take action and place you under arrest."

Julian assured, "Of course not, this is no joke. I'm sincere about it."

Seeing Julian's sincerity, Jenny felt a mix of excitement and curiosity.

Jenny agreed, "Alright, then. Meet me here after 7 PM."

Julian, eager for the evening, headed back to the Pokémon Center to rest before their meeting.

When 7 PM arrived, Julian stood outside the police station. Officer Jenny emerged, dressed in a stylish black outfit that complemented her figure perfectly.

The date had been nothing short of magical. Jenny and Julian had explored the city together, sharing stories, laughter, and discovering hidden gems in each other's company. As the evening drew to a close, they found themselves atop a picturesque hill that overlooked the city, its lights sparkling like a sea of stars.

As their evening came to a close, Officer Jenny extended an invitation to Julian to visit her office later that night. He accepted, feeling a sense of excitement mixed with nervousness.

Jenny's heart was light, and her cheeks were flushed with happiness. She turned to Julian, a soft smile playing on her lips. "Tonight has been incredible," she said, her voice barely above a whisper.

Julian smiled back, his eyes locked onto hers. "It truly has," he replied, his gaze filled with warmth. 

Julian reached out to gently caress Jenny's cheek with his fingertips. "And I can't wait to see what the rest of the night holds," he murmured, his voice filled with a subtle longing.

Jenny's smile widened, and she leaned in closer, their breaths mingling. "Let's do it, then," she said, her lips brushing against his as she spoke.

As they entered a room, the city's lights continued to twinkle below, mirroring the anticipation and connection that had blossomed between them. The night held the promise of something special, and Julian and Officer Jenny couldn't wait to explore it together.