Pokemon Centre

Team Rocket employs many scientists, and their technology often surpasses that of the League in certain areas. However, when it comes to medical advancements, the League is far ahead.

The Pokemon Centres, home to the world's most advanced medical technology, are among the League's most critical institutions.

It is often said that without the support of the Pokemon Centres, the League's trainers would see their overall combat effectiveness drop by more than one level.

The existence of Pokemon Centres strengthens the League's position and ensures its stability.

There were not many trainers performing Pokemon physical examinations, so Aoki waited for his turn after taking a number.

When his number was called, Aoki walked to the designated counter, where a medical staff member with a professional smile greeted him.

There is typically only one Nurse Joy in a Pokemon Centre. She handles serious injuries, so routine examinations are delegated to other medical staff to avoid overwhelming her workload.

"This is my League ID card. Please perform a full medical examination for my Pokemon," Aoki said, placing his ID card and three Pokeballs on the counter with a slight smile.

Before entering the Pokemon Centre, Aoki had returned both Slowpoke and Gastly to their Pokeballs. This ensured all three Pokemon would undergo the examination.

Although Aoki deliberately avoided drawing attention to his Murkrow and Gastly, no one would pay close attention to the specific Pokemon used by an unremarkable trainer like him. His identity remained safe.

"Hello. A full medical examination for three Pokemon costs 3,000 Pokecoins. Would you like to pay in cash or have the amount deducted from your ID card's bank account?" the staff member asked politely while inserting Aoki's League ID card into the system and pulling up his information.

"Deduct it from the account, please. Also, can I register for accommodation here? I'd like to stay overnight," Aoki replied, nodding.

The staff member nodded back with the same professional smile. "Yes, a night's stay costs 500 Pokecoins. Shall I deduct that as well?"

"Yes, and please take care of my Pokemon."

"Of course. Rest assured, our examinations are the most thorough. Here is your room key and a number plate for tracking the status of your Pokemon. The examination will take some time. You can wait in the reception room or head to your room. We'll notify you when it's complete."

After completing the transaction with a few clicks, the staff handed Aoki his ID card, room key, and number plate.

The League's pricing was reasonable, charging only 1,000 Pokecoins per comprehensive examination. Adding 500 Pokecoins for accommodation, Aoki had 1,500 Pokecoins left in his account.

For an experienced trainer like Aoki, this wasn't much, but for an ordinary person, it was a significant expense.

Civilian trainers, especially those without access to resources, often found these costs prohibitive. For them, being a trainer was an expensive pursuit, burning through money faster than most could afford.

This financial burden was one reason Team Rocket appealed to many civilians who dreamed of becoming trainers.

Not everyone who joins Team Rocket goes through grueling trials like Aoki did. Most new recruits follow a simple application process.

However, while it's easy to join Team Rocket, leaving is another matter entirely.

While waiting, Aoki decided not to return to his room or sit in the reception area. Instead, he explored the Pokemon Centre.

After a quick walkthrough, Aoki gained a clear understanding of the Vermillion City Pokemon Centre's layout.

The centre has six floors. The first floor is dedicated to basic treatment and examinations. The second floor handles serious injuries and houses wards. The third floor is a cafeteria catering to both humans and Pokemon. The fourth and fifth floors are accommodations for trainers, while the sixth floor is restricted to high-ranking League personnel, which Aoki couldn't access.

Behind the Pokemon Centre, there's a large open area for training. It features several well-equipped battlefields for trainers.

The overall design is practical and comprehensive, justifying the reasonable fees.

After about half an hour of exploration, Aoki returned to the reception room. Not long after, he was notified that the examination was complete.

Aoki retrieved his three Pokemon, learning from the staff that all were in excellent condition. Their physical development was outstanding, earning them praise.

Aoki smiled briefly, then released Slowpoke and headed to the cafeteria on the third floor.

It was already dinner time, and Aoki intended to feed Slowpoke while trying the food provided by the League.

"Slowpoke, let's go eat. League food is a bit different from grilled fish—time for a new taste," Aoki said, patting Slowpoke's head with a smile.

"Yaaah!" Slowpoke's eyes lit up at the mention of food. The largest eater among Aoki's team, Slowpoke was visibly excited, letting out a happy cry.

The cafeteria was getting crowded as more trainers arrived for dinner. Some chatted with friends while others stood in line with their Pokemon.

Slowpoke followed closely beside Aoki. After some training, it no longer needed to rely on psychic power to move, managing to keep pace with its trainer.

However, Aoki's arrival caused a stir among the other diners.

The cafeteria grew quieter as trainers noticed Aoki's Slowpoke, whispering among themselves.

"That Slowpoke looks different..."

"You idiot, that's a shiny Slowpoke! Its color is lighter. That trainer's really lucky."

"A shiny Slowpoke that's actually moving fast? That's rare!"

"Who is that trainer? I don't think he's from around here."

Although their voices were low, the cafeteria was quiet enough for Aoki to overhear their comments.

Frowning slightly, Aoki realized that Slowpoke's unique appearance was drawing more attention than he had hoped. No one enjoys being gawked at like an exhibit in a zoo.