Pokémon: A Tale Of Time (Volume One: Zephyr)

Chapter Twenty-Six - The Colour Violet

Raido stood in the waiting area of the Violet City Pokémon Centre, gazing out the large window as Nurse Joy, the newest in a long line of kind and dedicated caretakers, tended to his Pokémon. The city before him was a tapestry of beauty and tranquillity, bathed in the soft glow of streetlights under the dark night sky.

Violet City was a blend of the old and the new, with traditional Japanese architecture seamlessly integrated with modern amenities. The ancient towers and pagodas stood proudly, their silhouettes etched against the moonlit sky, telling stories of a rich history. The wooden beams and stone foundations of the buildings gave the city an aura of timeless wisdom. Nearby, the modern Pokémon Centre and Poké Marts hummed with the gentle buzz of neon lights and the laughter of trainers sharing tales of their adventures.

Trainers and Pokémon walked along the cobblestone streets, their faces illuminated by the warm streetlights. Raido watched as a young girl giggled, chasing after her playful Eevee, its bushy tail wagging energetically. A group of trainers stood by the fountain in the city square, their Pokémon splashing and playing in the water. The sound of their laughter mingled with the gentle splashing of the fountain, creating a serene and joyous atmosphere.

The city was alive with activity, yet it held a calm and peaceful ambiance. Street vendors lined the walkways, their stalls adorned with colourful lanterns and banners. The aroma of freshly made dumplings and sweet pastries wafted through the air, making Raido's stomach rumble. He realised he hadn't eaten since the afternoon, too caught up in the excitement of the competition.

A yawn escaped Raido's lips, and he stretched, feeling the exhaustion of the day's events settle into his bones. It had been a very long day since he left Harley's house in Cherrygrove. The journey along Route 30, the battles with other trainers, the dramatic fall into the depths of the cave, and the thrilling victory in the prehistoric Pokémon competition – it all seemed like a blur now. The adrenaline that had kept him going was finally wearing off, leaving a pleasant weariness in its wake.

He marvelled at the beauty of Violet City, feeling a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction. Despite the challenges and dangers, he had emerged victorious, with a new and rare Pokémon by his side. The memory of Tyrunt's bravery and determination brought a smile to his face.

Lost in his thoughts, Raido barely noticed the soft footsteps approaching him. Nurse Joy appeared, her gentle smile a beacon of reassurance. "Your Pokémon are all healed, Raido," she said kindly, handing him a Poké Ball. Nidoran happily skipped out from behind Nurse Joy, delighted to be reunited with her partner.

"Thank you, Nurse Joy," Raido replied, taking the Poké Ball with gratitude. He looked at it fondly, knowing that it held a new and cherished friend.

Nurse Joy looked at Raido with a concerned smile, her eyes taking in his dirt and dust-covered clothes, the smudges on his face, and the bruises on his arms. "You look like you've been through quite an ordeal, Raido. You should get some rest yourself," she advised gently, her voice filled with warmth and care.

Raido chuckled softly, glancing down at his tattered attire. "Yeah, it's been a long day," he admitted, running a hand through his dishevelled hair. The events of the day weighed heavily on him, and he felt the exhaustion in every muscle.

Nurse Joy nodded sympathetically. "There's a wonderful PokeStop just north of here," she recommended, pointing towards the window. "It's a great place for travelling trainers to rest and rejuvenate. They have comfortable beds, hot meals, and even a bathhouse to help you clean up and relax."

Raido's eyes lit up at the thought of a warm bed and a good meal. "That sounds perfect," he said, feeling a renewed sense of energy at the prospect of a restful night.

Nurse Joy smiled, pleased to see his spirits lift. "I'm sure you'll feel much better after a good night's sleep. You've earned it after everything you've been through."

Raido nodded, his gratitude evident. "Thank you, Nurse Joy. I really appreciate it." He placed the Poké Balls safely on his belt, feeling a comforting weight at his side.

"Take care, Raido, and good luck on your journey," Nurse Joy said, her eyes twinkling with kindness.

With a wave, Raido headed out of the Pokémon Centre, the cool night air refreshing against his skin. He followed Nurse Joy's directions, and began walking north through the tranquil streets of Violet City.