Chapter 28 - Aftermath and Arrangements
The low hum of the Pokémon Center's training hall ventilation seemed louder now that the brief, intense spar between Ace and Spearow had concluded. Alex stood near the center of the marked floor, Ace perched proudly on his shoulder, occasionally nudging his cheek with a soft coo. Across from him, Ash and Misty watched, their expressions a study in contrasts, while Nurse Joy approached with a calm, appraising look.
"Remarkable control, Alex," Sarah Joy said, her professional demeanor softened with genuine approval. The usual clinical efficiency was replaced by something warmer. "Understanding Spearow's perspective and channeling its energy constructively, rather than simply trying to suppress it... that's the mark of a thoughtful trainer. Professor Oak's assessment wasn't exaggerated." She offered a knowing glance towards the Poké Ball containing Abra, clipped securely at Alex's belt. "And your Abra certainly has hidden depths. Patience will be essential, but I suspect, highly rewarding."
Before Alex could respond, Ash practically bounced over, Pikachu mimicking his excitement with bright sparks on its cheeks. "Alex, that was amazing!" Ash exclaimed, eyes wide. "Ace is so cool, and Spearow looked so mad but then it listened! How'd you do that? Is it still mad at me?"
Alex managed a slight smile, stroking Ace's feathers. "It's about respect, Ash," he explained, keeping his tone even. "Spearow had a reason to be angry. It needed to understand its place, and Ace helped show it who's in charge here." He gave Ash a friendly but firm look. "As for you... maybe give it some space for a while? Let things cool down."
Misty, arms crossed, observed Alex with a critical eye, though the sharp edge of her earlier annoyance seemed slightly blunted, replaced by a flicker of curiosity. "Hmph," she sniffed, though it lacked its usual force. "Getting that feathered menace to calm down was... less chaotic than I expected." Her gaze swept over the collection of Poké Balls on his belt. "Still, quite the collection of problem children you've got there. Hope you know what you're doing."
"They've got potential," Alex replied evenly, meeting her gaze. He knew his team was unconventional, maybe even difficult, but the brief session had solidified his resolve. "We'll figure it out." He shifted his focus, his expression turning more serious. "But potential won't help against poison barbs or a Beedrill swarm. None of us are really ready for Viridian Forest yet. I heard the warnings, saw the trainers stocking up earlier. We need supplies – Antidotes, Paralyze Heals, more Poké Balls..."
Nurse Joy nodded gravely, her professional focus returning. "Absolutely correct. The forest demands preparation, especially with the Beedrill activity reported this season. The 'Trainer's Trove' on the main street is well-stocked and reputable." She then focused specifically on Alex. "Given the unusual circumstances of your arrival, the disruption caused by Team Rocket, and your immediate need to equip yourself properly for the journey ahead, I've authorized an advance on your first month's sponsorship stipend."
Alex felt his Trainer ID vibrate subtly at his waist as Nurse Joy gestured towards it. "₱25,000 has been credited to your account," she confirmed. "It should help you acquire the necessities without delay."
An advance? 25,000... Alex mentally accessed his account status, the numbers updating in his mind's eye. Previous: 2850₽ + Advance: 25000₽ = Total: 27850₽. A wave of genuine relief washed over him, loosening a knot of tension he hadn't fully realized he was carrying. Okay. That's... significant. Enough for proper supplies, maybe even some decent TMs later if I'm careful. His thoughts immediately went to the timid psychic Pokémon resting in its ball. Especially for Abra. Magic Guard and Encore are amazing, but Teleport won't win any fights. It needs an attacking move, fast. Maybe I can find a cheap, basic TM at the shop? Something like Confusion or Psybeam? Gotta check the prices. He consciously pushed aside any lingering thoughts about Misty's destroyed bike for the moment. Focus: Gear up. Get the team ready. He felt the weight of his diverse team – the psychic potential, the raw power, the stubborn bird, the... fish. This money needs to be spent wisely.
Just as the relief settled, a familiar, subtle notification overlaid his vision, almost an afterthought to the practical implications of the money.
[Hidden Quest Completed]
Secure Long-Term Support!
You have acquired financial security, though attached with strings.
Rewards:
+100 EXP
+5 Viridian City Reputation
Right. The sponsorship. He acknowledged the notification, filing away the small boost in EXP and reputation. Guess the System counts that as official now. The immediate need for supplies quickly took precedence again.
His internal calculations were interrupted by Ash, whose earlier enthusiasm had suddenly deflated. "Supplies! Right! ...Uh, but Alex," he shuffled his feet, looking down at Pikachu who nuzzled his cheek reassuringly. "Getting Pikachu healed up... it took pretty much everything I had." He looked genuinely embarrassed but also fiercely protective of his partner. "Totally worth it, though!" he added quickly.
Misty let out an exaggerated sigh that ruffled her orange ponytail. She stepped forward, planting her hands on her hips. "Oh, for crying out loud. Fine," she declared, directing it mostly at Ash but glancing towards Alex. "Looks like you're with me, Mr. Spent-It-All-Already. Someone has to make sure you get actual Antidotes instead of fancy Poké Ball stickers." Though her tone was exasperated, there was perhaps a touch softer edge now, knowing the reason for his empty pockets. She addressed Alex directly, "We'll handle getting his basics covered. You focus on whatever weird stuff your... unique team needs."
Alex saw the logic immediately. It saved him the trouble of managing Ash's impulsive shopping habits and let him focus on his own specific needs, like that potential TM for Abra. "Alright," he nodded. "Sounds like a plan. Give us enough time... say, an hour?"
Ash beamed again, relieved. "Yeah! An hour!"
Misty considered for a moment, then pointed towards the direction of the city center. "Okay, an hour. But let's meet up in front of the Viridian City Gym when we're done. Easier landmark."
Alex raised an eyebrow slightly – the Gym? But he nodded agreement. "The Gym entrance it is. One hour."
Nurse Joy offered a final encouraging nod before turning back towards the main reception area to attend to other duties. Ash, chattering excitedly about the Bug Pokémon he planned to catch in the forest, practically dragged Misty towards the exit, her occasional sighs trailing behind them.
Alex watched them go, a faint smile touching his lips. Ace nudged his cheek again. The Gym, huh? Wonder why she picked there. He looked down at the Poké Balls clipped to his belt, the smooth surfaces cool beneath his fingers. Okay. Shopping solo. Time to be smart about this. Taking a steadying breath, he turned and headed towards his room to grab his few belongings before venturing out into the bustling streets of Viridian City. The forest loomed, but first, there were preparations to make, and then, a rendezvous at the currently closed Gym.
—
Chapter End