Pokemon Indigo League Stories Part 2

Stomach ache

" Ash? Are you okay?" Someone asked as they climbed the ladder to see their best friend huddled in the corner of their bed.

Ash looked up.

" No. It hurts, Gary. It hurts."

Gary climbed onto Ash's bed. " I know, Kiddo. I know."

Gary gently put his hands under Ash's clothes. " Okay, I'm going to press gently. If it hurts, tell me, okay?"

Gary’s expression was calm and focused as he carefully placed his hands against Ash’s side, his touch gentle but firm. Ash clenched his fists, biting down on his lip to stop himself from reacting. Every slight pressure Gary applied sent a dull ache radiating through him, but he was determined to stay as still as he could.

“Alright, buddy. Just breathe,” Gary said quietly, glancing up at his friend’s tense expression. “It’ll be over soon, just a few more spots to check.”

Ash nodded, his breathing shallow. He could feel the warmth of Gary’s hand as it moved slowly across his torso, pressing gently along his ribs. When Gary’s hand brushed over a particularly sore area, Ash couldn’t help but wince, a small gasp escaping before he could stop it.

Gary immediately withdrew his hand, his eyes filling with concern. “Sorry, that spot must be bad. We’ll go easy.”

Ash forced a smile, though the pain was still pulsing. “I’m okay. Just… a little sore.” He was trying to be tough, but he could tell Gary wasn’t buying it.

“Hey, no need to pretend with me, alright? You’re allowed to feel pain, okay, kiddo?” Gary said softly, keeping his tone reassuring. “You’re not alone in this.”

Ash relaxed just a bit, appreciating Gary’s patience and steady presence. As Gary continued his careful examination, he was extra cautious, making sure to avoid any sore spots while checking for anything serious.

Finally, Gary leaned back, giving Ash a nod. “Alright, you’re done for now. You’ve got a few bruised muscles, but nothing broken. You just need to rest and let your body heal.” He grabbed a small ice pack from his bag, gently handing it to Ash.

Ash took it, pressing it to his side, and sighed in relief. “Thanks, Gary… I didn’t know it’d feel this bad.”

Gary chuckled softly, giving Ash’s shoulder a reassuring squeeze. “You’re tougher than you know, Ash. Just let me handle things until you’re back to full strength, okay?”

Ash nodded, and Gary helped him lie down and put the blanket over Ash.

" Night, Ash." He said quietly. " I'll see you when you wake up."