Yes that's a thing

And yes this is real

The sterile room was cool and quiet, the faint hum of equipment filling the air. Gary stood near the exam table, adjusting the straps of his surgical mask. His purple shirt peeked from beneath his white lab coat, a familiar comfort in the otherwise intimidating setting.

Ash sat on the table, nervously swinging his legs. His face was pale, and Pikachu, who had been reluctantly left outside the sterile area, let out worried "Pika-pika!" sounds from the waiting room.

"Hey, buddy," Gary said through the mask, his voice muffled but warm. "You doing okay?"

Ash fidgeted. "I guess... But what's with all the... the stuff you're wearing? You look like you're about to perform surgery or something."

Gary's eyes crinkled with a smile. "Well, it's kind of a big deal today, Ashy-boy. I need to make sure everything's super clean and sterile for what we're gonna do. But don't worry—I'm still me under all this." He playfully pulled at the mask.

Ash's eyes darted to the tray of medical supplies beside Gary. His stomach twisted at the sight of syringes and long needles. "W-what are we even doing?" he asked, his voice trembling.

Gary knelt beside the table so he was eye-level with Ash. "We’re doing a bone marrow aspiration today, buddy."

Ash's eyes went wide. "Bone marrow?! That sounds awful!"

Gary gently placed a gloved hand on Ash’s shoulder. "I know it sounds scary, but it's not as bad as you think. I need to check how your bone marrow is doing because it helps make your blood cells. Sometimes when you’ve been feeling really tired and sick, like you have lately, we need to see if your bone marrow is doing its job right."

Ash hugged himself, visibly shaking. "Is it gonna hurt?"

Gary's heart ached at the fear in his best friend's voice. "It might be a little uncomfortable, but I promise I’ll be as gentle as I can. And I'll be right here the whole time. You can hold my hand if you want."

Ash bit his lip, trying to be brave. "Okay... but only because it’s you."

Gary chuckled. "I'll take that as a compliment."

He guided Ash to lie on his side, gently lifting the back of his shirt to expose the lower part of his back. "I'm gonna numb the area first, okay? You’ll feel a little pinch, but that’s it."

Ash tensed, clutching the edge of the table. "O-okay..."

Gary worked quickly, cleaning the area with antiseptic before injecting the numbing agent. Ash winced but didn’t cry out. "You’re doing awesome, kiddo. Just a few seconds more... there we go. All numb."

Ash exhaled shakily. "That wasn’t too bad."

"See? Told ya," Gary said, his voice filled with pride. "Now comes the part where I take the sample. Remember, I’m right here."

Ash nodded, his fingers trembling slightly. "Can I hold your hand now?"

Gary’s eyes softened. "Of course, buddy." He offered his gloved hand, and Ash gripped it tightly.

As Gary carefully inserted the needle to access the bone marrow, Ash squeezed Gary’s hand hard, tears welling in his eyes. "It hurts..."

"I know, Ash. I know," Gary said soothingly. "Deep breaths, okay? In through your nose, out through your mouth. You're doing so good, buddy. Just a little longer."

Ash tried to focus on Gary's voice, his grip never loosening. Finally, Gary withdrew the needle and applied a bandage to the site. "All done, Ashy-boy. You were so brave."

Ash sniffled, tears still clinging to his lashes. "That was the worst..."

Gary sat down beside him, pulling off his gloves and mask. "I get it, buddy. But you did it. And because of that, we’ll know exactly how to help you feel better."

Ash wiped his eyes with his sleeve. "Really?"

"Really," Gary assured him. "And hey—how about we grab some ice cream on the way home? You’ve earned it."

Ash managed a small smile. "Only if I get two scoops."

Gary grinned. "Deal."

The clinic was unusually quiet that morning, with the faint hum of medical equipment filling the sterile air. Gary stood in front of a tray filled with gleaming instruments, snapping on a pair of latex gloves. Today was different, and it showed in the way he dressed—his usual white coat was present, but it was paired with a mask that covered the lower half of his face, and a clear face shield rested on his forehead, ready to be pulled down when needed. Beneath it all, of course, he still wore his signature purple shirt.

"Alright, Ashy-boy," Gary said, his voice slightly muffled by the mask. "You ready for this?"

Ash, sitting nervously on the exam table, fidgeted with the hem of his shirt. Pikachu was perched beside him, looking equally uneasy. "Do I have to?" Ash asked, his voice small.

Gary's eyes softened behind the mask. "Yeah, buddy. We need to do a bone marrow aspiration. It sounds scary, I know, but it’s gonna help us figure out what’s going on with you and how to make you feel better."

Ash swallowed hard. "Does it hurt?"

Gary sighed, crouching in front of him so they were eye level. "It might pinch and feel a bit weird, but I promise I’ll be as gentle as possible. And I’ll be right here the whole time, okay?"

Ash nodded reluctantly. "Okay... but only 'cause it’s you."

Gary chuckled. "Thanks for the vote of confidence, kiddo." He straightened up, pulling the face shield down over his face. "Alright, let's get you comfortable. Lay on your side for me, buddy."

Ash hesitated but did as Gary instructed, curling up slightly on his left side. Gary adjusted the exam table, ensuring Ash was in the right position. "Good job," he said reassuringly. "I'm gonna clean the area on your back first, okay? It'll feel a bit cold."

Ash tensed as Gary swiped a disinfectant solution over the lower part of his back. "Cold!" he yelped.

Gary chuckled softly. "I warned you, didn't I?" He patted Ash's shoulder. "You're doing great. Just a little more prep, and we’ll be all set."

Ash gripped the edge of the table, his knuckles turning white. "Do I have to watch?"

"Nah," Gary said, his tone gentle. "You can just talk to me, or Pikachu, or think about what kind of ice cream you want after this."

"Ice cream?" Ash's voice wavered with hope. "You're serious?"

"Absolutely," Gary confirmed. "You get through this, and I'll even throw in sprinkles."

Ash managed a shaky smile. "Deal."

Gary prepared the needle, his movements steady and precise. "Okay, Ash. You’re gonna feel a little pressure now. I need you to take a deep breath for me and let it out slow."

Ash squeezed his eyes shut and did as Gary instructed. "Is it in?" he asked nervously.

"Not yet," Gary assured him. "Just getting everything lined up. You're doing amazing, kiddo."

Ash's breathing grew shaky as Gary carefully inserted the needle. "Ow..." Ash whimpered, his voice quivering.

"I know, buddy," Gary murmured. "Just a few more seconds. Keep breathing for me. In... out... good job."

Ash's grip on the table tightened. "Gary... I wanna go home."

Gary's heart ached at the plea. "I know, Ashy-boy. But we’re almost done, I promise. You're one of the bravest kids I know."

Tears pricked Ash's eyes, and he bit his lip to keep from crying out. Gary worked quickly but carefully, his hands never faltering. "Okay... that's it. Needle's out," Gary announced, his voice filled with relief.

Ash sniffled, tears slipping down his cheeks. Gary gently removed his gloves and pulled the mask down. "Hey," he said softly, wiping Ash's tears with a tissue. "You did it, buddy. It’s over."

Ash turned toward him, still trembling. "It... it really hurt..."

Gary nodded solemnly. "I know, Ash. I'm sorry. But you were so brave. I'm really proud of you."

Ash clung to Pikachu, who nuzzled his face comfortingly. "I don't wanna do that again..."

Gary ruffled Ash's hair. "Hopefully, you won't have to. And hey, remember what I said? Ice cream. With sprinkles."

Ash's lips wobbled into a faint smile. "You better not be lying, Dr. Oak."

Gary grinned. "Never to you, Ashy-boy." He helped Ash sit up slowly, supporting him as he steadied himself. "You're a champ, you know that?"

Ash leaned into Gary's side, exhausted but comforted. "Thanks, Gary... you're the best."

"And you're my favorite patient," Gary said, guiding Ash toward the door. "Now let's get that ice cream."

The sterile white walls of the clinic were different from the usual cozy atmosphere Ash was used to. This was the real deal—full-on hospital settings with surgical tools, bright fluorescent lights, and a sharp, clinical smell that made Ash's stomach churn. His heart raced as he lay back on the hospital bed, his legs crossed nervously, and his fingers drumming on the thin sheet beneath him.

Gary was there with him, but today, he wasn’t wearing his usual laid-back look. His purple shirt was still on, but it was covered by a white lab coat. He had a mask on, along with gloves, and his usual confident expression was replaced with a quiet intensity. Ash had never seen Gary in this mode before.

“Gary…” Ash murmured, his voice small. “Are you sure about this?”

Gary’s eyes softened behind the mask as he sat next to Ash’s bed. “It’s going to be okay, buddy. We’ve done all the tests, and now we just need to make sure everything’s good with your bone marrow.”

Ash swallowed hard, the thought of the procedure still making him anxious. Bone marrow. The word alone sounded intimidating, and Ash felt his hands getting clammy. The doctors had explained it to him, but even then, the idea of a needle going into his bone wasn’t exactly something that brought comfort.

“Remember,” Gary continued, his voice calm and reassuring. “I’ll be right here. I’m not going anywhere. And you get to hold my hand through it all, okay?”

Ash glanced at Gary’s gloved hand, and for a moment, the fear ebbed away. His best friend—his constant, his rock—was going to be there, and that made all the difference. He could do this.

"Okay..." Ash whispered, stretching his hand out and gripping Gary’s. The familiar warmth and firmness of Gary’s hand made him feel a little braver.

Gary squeezed his hand back, a slight smile in his eyes, though his mask concealed it. "You’ve got this, Ashy-boy. Just focus on me. We’re almost ready to start."

Ash nodded, trying to relax. He could hear the soft beeping of the machines, the rustling of medical staff moving around the room, and the sound of Gary’s steady breathing.

A nurse walked over with a small tray, carefully setting out the sterile tools for the procedure. She gave a brief, polite nod to Gary, who was already preparing the area for the bone marrow extraction.

"Alright, Ash," Gary said, his voice gentle but serious now. "This is it. I’m going to numb the area first, okay? You’ll feel a little pinch, but then it won’t hurt."

Ash clenched Gary’s hand tighter, trying to suppress his unease. "Just… just don’t make it hurt too much, okay?"

Gary’s eyes softened even more, his free hand brushing a lock of hair away from Ash’s forehead. "I won’t, I promise. But you need to be still for me, okay? You’re doing great so far."

Ash nodded again, his chest rising and falling with deep breaths. He could feel his heart pounding in his chest, but he tried to stay calm, knowing Gary was right there with him.

Gary adjusted the sterile sheet around Ash’s waist, preparing the area near his hip. "Okay, buddy. Here comes the needle, just for the numbing. You ready?"

Ash swallowed, nodding quickly. "Yeah, just… just do it."

Gary’s hands were steady, his movements practiced. He carefully swabbed the area with alcohol, then inserted the needle. Ash’s face tightened for a moment, the sharp pinch of the needle making him wince, but it wasn’t as bad as he’d feared.

“Almost done, Ash. You’re doing amazing,” Gary reassured him, never letting go of his hand. His voice was soft, and the sound of it felt like a warm blanket around Ash’s nerves.

When the numbing medication took effect, Gary explained the next steps. "Now, I’m going to insert the needle for the bone marrow extraction. It’ll feel weird, but you shouldn’t feel any pain, just some pressure. I’m right here."

Ash nodded, taking slow breaths as Gary positioned the needle. The moment it touched his skin, he could feel the pressure Gary had warned him about. It felt heavy, a sensation deep in his bone that made him shiver, but it wasn’t painful. Not really.

Gary didn’t stop talking, his calm, steady voice a lifeline through the process. "Good job, Ashy-boy. You’re doing awesome. Just hang in there for a few more seconds. We’re almost done."

Ash squeezed Gary’s hand tighter, his knuckles pale. "Okay… okay, I can do this. I just don’t want it to hurt."

Gary kept his attention fully on the procedure, his own hands moving with practiced precision, making sure to take as much of the pressure as he could off Ash’s nerves. “I know, buddy. And I won’t let it hurt. You’re strong, and you’ve got me right here."

Finally, the process was over. Gary gently removed the needle and placed a small bandage on the spot. "That’s it, Ashy. You did great."

Ash let out a shaky breath, his grip still tight on Gary’s hand. He was trembling, but the worst was over. "That… that wasn’t as bad as I thought," he muttered, still a little surprised by how well he’d managed.

Gary smiled behind his mask, his eyes sparkling with pride. "See? I told you. And you’re braver than you think."

He reached over, adjusting Ash’s blanket so he could sit up a little more comfortably. "We’ll keep you here for a bit to make sure everything’s fine, but you’re already doing better than I thought."

Ash’s face softened, and for a moment, he simply gazed at Gary, his hand still clutching his. "Thanks, Gary. I don’t think I could’ve done that without you."

Gary chuckled softly, giving Ash’s hand a final squeeze. "That’s what friends are for, buddy. I’ve got your back, always."

And as Ash lay there, the room quieter now, with the sounds of the machines in the background, he felt the weight of the procedure lift off his shoulders. He had made it through, and in that moment, with Gary beside him, he knew he could face whatever came next.

No matter what.

The hospital was sterile and quiet, with the occasional hum of machinery and soft footsteps of nurses moving in and out of rooms. The sharp smell of antiseptic lingered in the air, and the walls were painted a calming pale blue. Gary stood in the small prep room, his white lab coat over his purple shirt, gloves snug on his hands, and a surgical mask covering the lower half of his face. His eyes, though masked, were filled with determination as he checked the equipment once more.

It wasn’t a routine procedure, and Ash wasn’t exactly thrilled about it. Gary knew how scared he must be, especially with the needle involved. But this was something important—a bone marrow test. They needed to check for any abnormalities, to make sure that Ash's body was producing healthy blood cells, just to be safe. It wasn’t something they could delay, and Ash’s health had always been Gary’s top priority.

"Ash, you ready, buddy?" Gary asked, stepping toward the bed where Ash was lying, his face pale.

Ash nodded weakly, his small fingers tightly clutching Pikachu’s fur. He had been through a lot recently, but this? This was the hardest. The fear was evident in his wide eyes, and Gary couldn’t help but feel for his best friend.

"I don’t know if I can do this, Gary..." Ash whispered, his voice small, almost lost.

Gary leaned down, his eyes soft behind the mask, showing warmth and reassurance. "You don’t have to do it alone, Ashy-boy. I’m right here. I’m not going anywhere, I promise."

Ash managed a shaky smile, his fingers tightening on Pikachu even more. The small, yellow Pokémon gave a soft "Pika!" as if trying to offer comfort, but Ash’s gaze remained on the sterile room around him.

Gary motioned for the nurse to prepare the area. The bed was lowered, and the sterile field was set up—a blue sheet over Ash's midsection, and everything in place. The nurse gave Gary a small nod, confirming they were ready to proceed.

“Ash,” Gary began, his voice calm yet firm, “this is going to hurt, but it won’t last long. I’m going to do everything I can to make it as easy as possible for you. Okay?”

Ash’s lips trembled as he nodded. “Okay,” he whispered.

Gary smiled softly, his gloved hand gently resting on Ash’s arm. "I’m gonna hold your hand the whole time, alright? You won’t be alone. Not for a second."

Ash's eyes glistened with unshed tears, but he nodded once more, trying to be brave. "Thanks, Gary. You’re the best."

"Always, Ash," Gary replied, his voice steady and warm despite the seriousness of the situation. "I’m gonna lift your shirt a little, alright? I just need to expose the spot where I’ll do the procedure."

Ash flinched slightly but allowed Gary to lift his shirt gently, exposing his side just above his hip, where the bone marrow would be accessed. Gary placed a gentle hand on Ash’s side, giving a soft but reassuring squeeze.

"Let’s get this over with," Gary murmured more to himself, checking the area again. "You’re doing great, Ash. Just breathe, buddy."

Gary turned to the nurse for one last check of the instruments. The needle was long, a special type designed for bone marrow extraction, and the sterile tools laid neatly beside him. His hands were steady as he prepared everything. The mask was slightly uncomfortable, but it was necessary. It kept everything clean.

He turned back to Ash, kneeling by his side, his gloved hand reaching out to hold Ash’s. Ash’s fingers curled around his tightly, as if holding onto the lifeline that was Gary.

"I'm here, buddy. I’m not going anywhere," Gary reassured, squeezing his hand gently. "It’s just going to be a quick poke. You can handle it. You’ve handled so much already."

Ash nodded again, his face pale, his body tense. He couldn’t quite relax. He could feel the cold touch of the antiseptic wipe as Gary gently cleaned the area where the needle would go. It felt sharp and cold against his skin, sending a chill through him. He closed his eyes tightly, trying to block out the fear.

"Okay, Ash. I’m going to do the first part now," Gary said softly, his tone careful. "This might sting a bit, but stay with me."

Ash didn’t respond; he was trying so hard to stay brave. Gary looked at him for a moment, his heart aching. Ash was always so strong, but this time, Gary knew how much pain he would be in.

He pressed the needle to the skin, the sharp metal entering with a quick, controlled motion. Ash gasped, his fingers tightening around Gary’s hand as he sucked in a sharp breath.

"Easy, buddy," Gary whispered, rubbing Ash’s hand gently. "Just breathe through it."

Ash let out a strangled sob, his face scrunching in pain. "It hurts, Gary," he whispered between breaths.

"I know, Ash," Gary replied quietly, his voice a soft comfort. "It’s almost over. Just a little longer."

The nurse kept a watchful eye, ready with the next steps as Gary pushed the needle further, extracting the bone marrow. The pressure was uncomfortable for Ash, but Gary’s steady presence kept him grounded. Ash’s breathing came in shallow gasps as the procedure continued. His grip on Gary’s hand never loosened.

Finally, Gary removed the needle and quickly bandaged the site, pressing gently against Ash’s skin. "You did it, Ash. I’m so proud of you. You’re so brave."

Ash’s eyes were wet with tears, his body still trembling slightly, but he gave Gary a weak smile. "It... it wasn’t so bad... when you were holding my hand."

Gary nodded, a soft smile on his face. "I’ll always hold your hand, Ashy-boy. No matter what."

He turned to the nurse. "That’s the first one. Let’s go for the second."

Gary cleaned the second site, this time a little further up Ash’s side. "Okay, buddy. Ready for round two?"

Ash swallowed hard, nodding weakly, but his grip on Gary’s hand was still firm.

The second needle went in, and once again, Ash flinched, his breath hitching. He held on tighter, his voice shaky. "Gary... please, make it stop... it hurts..."

Gary leaned down closer, his voice low and soothing. "I know it hurts, Ash. But you’re almost done. Just breathe. I’m right here."

The second needle was out before long, and Gary reassured Ash, letting him rest for a few moments.

Finally, Gary moved to the third site, on Ash’s other side. His face was flushed from the exertion, and his breathing still labored from the discomfort, but his grip never faltered.

Gary’s hands were steady, his movements calm and reassuring. "Alright, last one, Ash. You’ve been so brave. This will be the last poke, I promise."

Ash’s eyes were tightly shut, tears falling freely now. "I can’t... I can’t do this, Gary..."

Gary cupped Ash’s cheek gently, lifting his head just slightly. "You’ve got this, Ash. I’m with you every step of the way. I’m not going anywhere."

With a final breath, Gary pressed the needle into Ash’s side. This time, Ash cried out, the pain too much for him to hold in. His hand gripped Gary’s sleeve tightly, pulling the fabric as if for dear life. "Gary! Make it stop! Please!"

Gary’s heart shattered at the sound of Ash’s cry. He immediately leaned over, cradling Ash’s head against his chest. "Shh... It’s over, Ash. It’s over. You did it. You’re okay, buddy."

Ash continued to cry, clinging to Gary as if he was the only thing keeping him grounded. Gary held him close, rocking him slightly, as the nurse finished up with the final steps of the procedure.

"You were so brave, Ash," Gary murmured into his hair, pressing his cheek against his best friend’s. "I’m so proud of you."

Ash sniffled, his body still trembling. "It hurt so much, Gary... I’m so scared of shots."

Gary pulled back, brushing Ash’s hair out of his face. "I know, Ash. But you did it. And I’m always here when you need me."

Ash wiped his eyes, looking up at Gary with a weak smile. "Thanks, Gary. For... for everything."

Gary smiled softly, brushing a tear from Ash’s cheek. "Anytime, Ashy-boy. Anytime."

Gary sat beside Ash on the bed, still holding his hand, ready to comfort him through the rest of the recovery. The procedure was over, but Ash’s safety and well-being would always be Gary’s top priority. And no matter how difficult the road ahead might be, Ash knew that with Gary by his side, he could face anything.

The sterile scent of antiseptics clung to the air inside the hospital's procedure room. Bright fluorescent lights illuminated every gleaming surface, making it feel both clinical and oddly surreal. Gary Oak stood near the procedure table, adjusting his mask over his face. His eyes, the only part visible, were calm but focused.

His white coat was perfectly crisp, and despite the professional atmosphere, he still wore his signature purple shirt beneath it. On his gloved hands, he snapped the elastic cuffs securely, the sound echoing in the quiet room.

Ash Ketchum sat nervously on the sterile hospital bed, his legs swinging anxiously over the edge. His face was pale, and his brown eyes darted around the room, taking in the array of unfamiliar medical instruments. Pikachu wasn’t allowed inside the sterile environment, which made Ash feel even more vulnerable.

Gary stepped closer, his voice muffled slightly by the mask. "Hey, kiddo," he greeted softly. "You hanging in there?"

Ash gave a weak nod but kept wringing his hands together. "Yeah... I guess. Do we really have to do this?"

Gary crouched in front of him so their eyes met. "I know it's scary, Ash. But your bone marrow results are really important for figuring out what's been going on with your health. This'll help us get answers and make sure you're back to doing what you love—being out there with Pikachu and having adventures."

Ash bit his lip. "Does it... does it hurt?"

Gary hesitated but chose honesty. "It might hurt a bit, yeah. But I'm gonna be right here with you the whole time. And I promise, we’ll get through it together."

Ash's voice wavered. "What if I can't do it?"

Gary reached out, placing a gloved hand over Ash's smaller one. "Listen, Ashy-boy, you're the toughest kid I know. You’ve faced wild Pokémon battles, dangerous cliffs, and Team Rocket a million times. If you can handle all that, you can handle this too. And hey—" Gary smiled under the mask, though only his eyes revealed it. "You get to hold my hand. How’s that for a deal?"

Ash blinked, surprised by the offer. "Really? But you’re the doctor. Isn't that unprofessional?"

Gary chuckled. "Nah, not when it’s you. Besides, it’s what best friends do, right?"

Ash gave a nervous laugh. "Yeah... I guess so."

Gary squeezed his hand gently. "Alright, let’s get you set up."

He guided Ash to lie down on his side, adjusting his clothes so it exposed the area near his lower back. Gary’s movements were gentle, precise, and reassuring. "Okay, buddy. I'm just gonna clean the area now. It'll feel a bit cold."

Ash flinched as the alcohol swab touched his skin. "Yikes! That’s freezing!"

"Yeah, sorry about that," Gary said with a chuckle. "Better cold than dirty, though, right?"

Ash grumbled but managed a small smile. "I guess."

Once the area was prepped, Gary motioned for the assisting nurse to hand him the biopsy needle. Ash's eyes widened when he caught sight of it.

"Whoa, that thing's huge!" Ash exclaimed, his voice trembling.

Gary immediately placed a hand on Ash's shoulder. "Hey, hey—deep breaths, kiddo. Don't focus on that. Just keep your eyes on me, alright?"

Ash nodded shakily. "Okay... but I'm still freaking out."

Gary sat down on a stool beside the bed and extended his hand. "Here. Hold on as tight as you need to."

Ash didn't hesitate. He gripped Gary's hand with surprising strength, his knuckles turning white. Gary winced slightly but didn’t pull away.

"Alright, Ash," Gary said gently. "I’m gonna count down from three, and then we’ll start, okay? You just keep squeezing my hand."

Ash's breathing quickened. "O-okay..."

"Three... two... one." Gary carefully inserted the needle.

Ash's body tensed immediately, and he let out a sharp gasp. "Ow... ow ow ow!"

"I know, buddy, I know," Gary said soothingly. "You're doing amazing. Just keep breathing. Almost there."

Ash whimpered, tears pricking his eyes. "It hurts, Gary..."

"I've got you," Gary assured him, his voice steady. "Just hold on to me. You're almost through the worst part."

Ash buried his face against the pillow, his grip on Gary’s hand never faltering. Gary kept talking to him, his calm voice cutting through the pain. "You're strong, Ash. You're doing great. Just a few more seconds, and we’re done."

Finally, Gary withdrew the needle and immediately pressed a sterile gauze to the site. "All done, kiddo. You did it."

Ash's body trembled, and he sniffled, tears streaming down his face. "That was awful..."

Gary removed his gloves and mask, tossing them into the disposal bin. He leaned down, wrapping an arm around Ash's shoulders. "But you did it. And I’m so proud of you, Ashy-boy. You were brave as heck."

Ash hiccupped, still gripping Gary’s hand. "Really?"

"Really," Gary said firmly. "Not everyone can handle that like you did."

The nurse handed Gary a Band-Aid, which he gently applied over the biopsy site. "There we go—official battle scar," Gary teased, trying to lighten the mood.

Ash let out a shaky laugh. "Yeah... I guess so."

Gary ruffled Ash's hair. "You earned a Pikachu-sized hug when we get out of here."

Ash wiped his face with the back of his hand. "Can I get ice cream too?"

Gary grinned. "Deal. But only if you let me pick the flavor."

Ash narrowed his eyes playfully. "Only if it's not vanilla."

Gary laughed. "You drive a hard bargain, kiddo." He stood up, helping Ash sit up slowly. "C’mon, let’s get you out of this place and back to feeling better."

The sterile hospital room was quiet, save for the rhythmic beeping of a monitor in the corner. The air smelled faintly of antiseptic, and the walls were a pristine white. Everything was meticulously clean, from the gleaming metal tray of instruments to the fresh sheets on the examination bed.

Gary adjusted his face mask, the blue surgical fabric snug over his mouth and nose. His dark brown eyes remained focused and calm, though there was a hint of concern in them. Despite the sterile environment, he was still Gary—a splash of his usual self evident in the familiar purple shirt under his white coat.

Ash lay on the hospital bed, his face pale and tense. He fidgeted with the hem of his shirt, trying to keep his breathing steady. His black hair was slightly damp from nervous sweat, and Pikachu had been left outside per the hospital's rules. That left Ash feeling a bit lonelier than he liked.

"Hey, Ashy-boy," Gary's voice came from above the mask, soft and warm. "You hanging in there?"

Ash swallowed hard, his throat dry. "I guess... I dunno, Gary. This sounds... terrifying."

Gary pulled on a pair of sterile gloves, the snap echoing in the quiet room. "I know it sounds scary, kiddo," he admitted gently. "Bone marrow procedures aren’t exactly fun, but it’s going to help us figure out what’s going on with your body. And I promise I'll be right here the whole time."

Ash's lip trembled slightly. "You mean... you're doing it?"

Gary nodded, his eyes crinkling in what Ash assumed was a reassuring smile beneath the mask. "Yeah, buddy. Who else would you want poking around your bones, huh?"

Ash blinked. "Uh... no one, actually."

Gary chuckled softly. "Good answer."

The nurse by Gary's side handed him a fresh sterilized instrument tray, and he placed it on a stand next to the bed. "Alright, Ash. I'm gonna explain everything so you know exactly what's happening, okay? No surprises."

Ash gripped the edge of the bed. "Okay..."

Gary crouched down so he was eye-level with Ash. "First, I'm going to numb the area near your hip. You won't feel anything sharp after that, just a little pressure. Once it's numb, I’ll use a special needle to collect some bone marrow from your pelvis. That’s the big bone in your hip."

Ash's eyes widened. "My bone?! You're gonna stab my bone?!"

Gary winced. "Okay, when you say it like that, it sounds way worse than it is. But yeah, basically. Only it's super precise and controlled. Nothing wild, I promise."

Ash bit his lip. "And it's not gonna... hurt?"

Gary's voice softened. "It might feel weird, but the numbing stuff will take care of the pain. And if it gets too uncomfortable, you just tell me, okay? I mean it."

Ash's fingers clenched the sheets. "What if I freak out?"

Gary's brow furrowed, and he reached for Ash's hand. "Then I'll be here to get you through it. Just like always. And hey—" he wiggled his gloved fingers— "you can squeeze my hand as hard as you want. I won't even complain."

Ash's face crumpled slightly. "You sure?"

Gary nodded firmly. "Positive."

The nurse adjusted the bed, and Ash reluctantly lay flat, his heart racing. Gary positioned himself beside him, holding Ash's hand tightly.

"Alright, buddy. Here comes the numbing shot," Gary warned gently. "Deep breath in... and out."

Ash sucked in a breath, flinching slightly as the needle pricked his skin. Gary's hand remained steady, anchoring him.

"You're doing great," Gary encouraged. "Almost done with this part... there we go. See? Not too bad, right?"

Ash let out a shaky breath. "If you say so..."

Gary waited a few moments for the anesthetic to take effect. "Okay, now I'm going to check if it's numb. Tell me if you feel this." He pressed lightly near Ash's hip.

"Uh... nope," Ash said, surprised. "I don’t feel anything."

"Good," Gary said, his voice pleased. "That means we're ready to go."

Ash tensed as Gary prepared the biopsy needle. "Remember, buddy—I'm right here," Gary reminded him, tightening his grip on Ash's hand. "If you need to scream, yell, or call me names, go for it."

Ash managed a nervous laugh. "Even... even 'idiot Gary'?"

"Especially 'idiot Gary,'" Gary said with a grin beneath his mask. "Now take a deep breath."

Ash closed his eyes, gripping Gary's hand tightly as the needle went in. He felt pressure—deep, strange, and uncomfortable—but Gary's steady voice guided him through it.

"You're doing amazing, Ash," Gary murmured. "Almost there. Just keep breathing, buddy. In... and out... that's it."

Ash whimpered slightly, tears gathering at the corners of his eyes. "Gary... it feels weird..."

"I know, Ashy-boy," Gary said soothingly. "Just a few more seconds. You're stronger than this, kiddo. I promise."

Ash squeezed Gary's hand so hard it turned white, but Gary never let go. Finally, after what felt like an eternity, Gary withdrew the needle and placed a bandage over the site.

"All done," Gary announced gently, his voice filled with pride. "You did it, Ash."

Ash opened his eyes, tears spilling down his cheeks. "Really?"

"Really," Gary confirmed. "You were so brave, buddy. I’m proud of you."

Ash sniffled. "It... it wasn't as bad as I thought."

Gary chuckled. "Told ya I’d take care of you. You’re tough, Ashy-boy. One of the toughest kids I know."

Ash wiped his face with his free hand. "Thanks, Gary."

"Anytime, kiddo," Gary said, ruffling Ash's hair. "Now, how about we get you some juice and a snack? You deserve it."

Ash grinned weakly. "Only if it's not hospital food."

Gary laughed. "Deal. Let’s blow this popsicle stand."

The hospital room was pristine and eerily quiet, illuminated by bright overhead lights that made every surface gleam. The walls were stark white, and the air smelled faintly of antiseptic. In the middle of the room was a sterile bed draped with crisp blue sheets, surrounded by monitors, surgical trays, and gleaming medical equipment. Gary stood at the foot of the bed, dressed in full surgical gear—a fitted mask covering his nose and mouth, gloves snapped snugly over his hands, and a protective cap tucked over his spiky brown hair.

Despite the professional attire, he still wore his signature purple shirt beneath his coat, a comforting touch of familiarity. His eyes, warm and steady, were the only visible part of his face.

On the bed, Ash sat nervously, his legs swinging slightly over the edge. He was dressed in a loose hospital gown, his sneakers placed neatly on the floor. Pikachu, who had initially insisted on staying, was gently ushered out by the nurse. "Pika pi!" the little Pokémon had protested, but Gary promised they'd be back together soon.

Now, it was just the two of them.

Ash fidgeted, his fingers twisting anxiously in his lap. "Gary... do we really have to do this?" he asked, his voice small and uncertain.

Gary crouched down to be at eye level with him, his gloved hands resting on Ash's knee. "Yeah, buddy, we do. I know it sounds scary, but this is gonna help us figure out what's going on with your bones and marrow. If there's a problem, we can fix it. And if there's nothing wrong, then we’ll know for sure."

Ash bit his lip. "But... it’s gonna hurt, isn’t it?"

Gary’s eyes softened. "It might sting a little, but I'll be right here the whole time. You can hold my hand, okay? I won’t let go."

Ash hesitated, then nodded. "Okay... but you better not run away."

Gary chuckled. "Me? Run away? Never, Ashy-boy." He stood up and gestured to the bed. "Alright, kiddo, lie back for me."

Ash obeyed, though his movements were stiff and reluctant. Gary adjusted the bed, reclining it slightly so Ash was comfortable. He pulled up the sterile sheets to cover Ash’s legs and gently positioned him so that his hip was accessible.

"First things first," Gary said, pulling a tray closer. "I'm gonna clean the spot really well. This is a sterile procedure, so I gotta be extra careful."

Ash grimaced. "Sterile sounds... serious."

"It just means super clean," Gary explained with a reassuring smile behind his mask. "Nothing bad gets in. That’s all."

He snapped open a packet of antiseptic wipes and gently swabbed a spot on Ash's hip. The coolness made Ash flinch. "Cold?" Gary asked.

"Yeah," Ash muttered.

"Better cold than germs," Gary joked lightly, trying to keep the mood calm. "Now, here's the deal—I'm gonna numb the area first. That way, you won't feel much during the procedure."

Ash’s eyes widened. "Wait, wait—does that mean a shot?"

Gary nodded. "Just one, buddy. I promise it's quick. And remember—you can hold my hand."

Ash hesitated for a moment, then reached out, gripping Gary's gloved hand tightly. "Don't let go," he whispered.

"I won't," Gary promised.

With his free hand, Gary expertly prepared the syringe. "Deep breath in for me, Ash... and out. There you go. One more time. In... and out." As Ash exhaled, Gary inserted the needle swiftly and smoothly.

Ash winced, his grip on Gary’s hand tightening. "Ow!"

"You're doing great, Ash. Almost done." Gary’s voice was calm and steady. Within seconds, he withdrew the needle and set it aside. "See? All done with that part."

Ash let out a shaky breath. "That wasn't as bad as I thought..."

Gary smiled. "Told you I'd take care of you." He adjusted his position and checked the numbed area. "Alright, the next part’s the biopsy. I’ll be using this special tool to get a small sample from your bone marrow. It sounds intense, but you’re already numb, so it won’t hurt much."

Ash’s eyes flicked to the long, intimidating tool Gary held. "That thing looks like it came from a horror movie."

Gary laughed softly. "Nah, just a regular old medical tool. It’s all about how you use it." He squeezed Ash’s hand. "Still got me, right?"

Ash nodded, though his face was pale. "Yeah... I got you."

"Good. Keep holding on. We’re in this together." Gary positioned the tool carefully and spoke in a soothing tone. "You might feel some pressure, but that’s it. If it’s too much, just say the word."

Ash clenched his jaw as Gary began the procedure. The pressure was strange and uncomfortable, but true to Gary’s word, it didn’t hurt as much as he’d feared. Still, Ash's grip on Gary's hand tightened until his knuckles turned white.

"You're doing awesome, Ash," Gary encouraged. "Almost there, buddy. Just a few more seconds."

Ash’s breath was shaky, but he nodded. "Okay..."

Gary worked swiftly and efficiently, his focus unwavering. After what felt like an eternity to Ash, Gary finally set the tool down and pressed a clean bandage over the site. "And... we're done. You did amazing, kiddo."

Ash let out a breath he didn’t realize he’d been holding. His eyes were glassy with unshed tears. "Really? It’s over?"

"Really," Gary confirmed, pulling down his mask to reveal a proud smile. "See? You survived."

Ash blinked rapidly, then threw his arms around Gary, hugging him tightly. "Thanks... I was really scared."

Gary hugged him back, his voice gentle. "I know, Ash. But you were brave, and I’m proud of you." He pulled back slightly, ruffling Ash's hair. "Now all we gotta do is send this sample to the lab and see what’s going on."

Ash sniffled. "You think it'll be okay?"

Gary nodded confidently. "Yeah, I do. No matter what, we’ll handle it together. Deal?"

"Deal." Ash managed a small smile.

Gary grinned. "Now how about I get you some juice and a snack? You earned it."

"Can I have two juices?" Ash asked, his mischievous spark returning.

Gary laughed. "You drive a hard bargain, kiddo. But sure—two juices for my favorite patient."

The hospital room was quiet except for the steady hum of medical equipment. Sunlight filtered through the large windows, casting a sterile glow across the pristine white walls. Everything smelled clean—too clean. Ash sat on the hospital bed, looking pale and anxious, his legs dangling off the side. Pikachu was pacing nervously on the floor, its tail flicking as it glanced between Ash and the unfamiliar machines.

Gary stood nearby, wearing a full set of protective gear: a surgical mask covering his face, a blue hair cap, gloves, and a sterile gown over his coat. Despite all the layers, his signature purple shirt was still visible underneath, a reminder of the familiar Gary Ash trusted.

Ash fidgeted with his fingers. "Gary... do we really have to do this?"

Gary's eyes softened behind the mask. He pulled up a rolling stool and sat in front of Ash, resting a gloved hand on the boy’s knee. "Yeah, buddy. We do. But listen, I’m gonna make sure it goes as smoothly as possible. I’m right here, okay?"

Ash swallowed hard, his voice wavering. "It’s gonna hurt, isn’t it?"

Gary hesitated, not wanting to lie. "It might be a little uncomfortable, but I’ll be with you the whole time. And this is gonna help us figure out what’s going on with your body so we can make you feel better."

Ash glanced down at Pikachu, who had stopped pacing to watch him with worried eyes. "Pika pi," it chirped softly.

"See? Even Pikachu’s rooting for you," Gary said with a reassuring smile, though it was hidden behind the mask. "You’re not doing this alone, Ashy-boy."

Ash sniffed, wiping his nose with the back of his hand. "Can I... can I hold your hand?"

Gary’s heart squeezed. "Of course you can, kiddo." He reached out his gloved hand, and Ash gripped it tightly.

A nurse entered the room, her voice gentle. "We’re ready, Dr. Oak."

Gary nodded, his expression turning serious. "Alright, Ash. I’m gonna have you lay back now, okay? Just take it easy."

Ash’s breathing quickened as he lay down on the sterile hospital bed. Gary stayed by his side, never letting go of his hand. The nurse adjusted the bed and prepared the instruments while another nurse sterilized the area on Ash’s lower back where they would insert the needle.

Ash winced at the cold antiseptic. "That’s freezing!"

Gary chuckled softly. "Yeah, they never warn you about that part, do they? But hey, that’s the worst of it for now."

Ash gritted his teeth. "You sure about that?"

Gary squeezed his hand. "Positive. Just keep holding on to me, okay?"

The nurse handed Gary the sterile needle for the bone marrow aspiration. Gary’s tone remained calm and steady. "Okay, Ash. I’m gonna talk you through this, alright? First, you’re gonna feel a little pressure. Just keep breathing, buddy. Deep breath in... and out. Good. One more time. In... out. You’re doing great."

Ash's knuckles turned white as he clung to Gary’s hand. Pikachu hopped onto the bed, watching with wide, worried eyes.

Gary positioned the needle carefully. "Here we go, Ash. Keep breathing. You’re one tough kid, you got this."

Ash squeezed his eyes shut as the needle went in. His breathing hitched, and a small whimper escaped his lips. Gary’s heart ached, but he stayed calm. "Almost there, buddy. Almost there. Keep holding on to me."

The nurse nodded, signaling that they were drawing the sample. Gary kept talking, his voice gentle. "You’re doing amazing, Ash. I’m so proud of you. Just a few more seconds."

Ash's grip on Gary’s hand tightened even more. "It hurts..." he whispered, tears slipping down his face.

"I know, buddy. I know it does," Gary said softly, his own voice thick with emotion. "But it’s almost over. You’re being so brave. Just keep holding on to me."

Pikachu leaned closer, its ears drooping in concern. "Pika pi..."

Finally, the nurse nodded. "We’re done, Dr. Oak."

Gary let out a relieved breath. "Hear that, Ashy-boy? You did it. It’s over."

Ash opened his teary eyes, his body trembling. "Really?"

"Really," Gary confirmed, gently removing the needle and covering the spot with a bandage. "You were amazing, kiddo. Like a total champ."

Ash’s breathing slowly steadied, though he was still clutching Gary’s hand. "That was the worst thing ever," he muttered.

Gary chuckled, pulling his mask down to reveal a warm smile. "Yeah, I don’t blame you for thinking that. But hey—you did it. And now we can get you feeling better."

Ash sniffed, his voice small. "You sure?"

Gary ruffled his hair. "Positive. And you know what? I owe you the biggest ice cream sundae after this. Deal?"

Ash managed a weak smile. "Deal."

Pikachu hopped onto Ash’s chest, nuzzling him. "Pika pi!"

Gary stood up, still holding Ash’s hand. "You rest here for a bit, buddy. I’ll be right back to check on you. And I’m never letting you do this alone, okay? Never."

Ash’s voice was barely a whisper. "Thanks, Gary... for being here."

Gary’s eyes softened. "Always, Ashy-boy. Always."

The room was unnervingly quiet, except for the faint hum of medical equipment and the soft shuffle of Pikachu’s pacing feet. The sterile white walls, the bright overhead lights, and the beeping monitors created an atmosphere that even Gary had to admit was intimidating. But this wasn’t just any patient—this was Ashy-boy, his best friend. And Gary was determined to make sure Ash got through this.

Gary adjusted the surgical mask on his face and glanced at his reflection in the glass window. The disposable cap covered his spiky brown hair, and the mask hid most of his face, but his sharp eyes behind his glasses held steady determination. He tugged at his gloves and glanced down at the purple shirt peeking out from under his lab coat. He’d worn it deliberately today—he knew it comforted Ash to see something familiar.

Ash sat on the hospital bed, his legs dangling nervously over the edge, his face pale. He wore a loose hospital gown, but Pikachu had climbed onto his lap earlier and wrinkled it with tiny paw prints. Now Pikachu was pacing in anxious circles on the floor, occasionally glancing at Ash with a worried "Pika…".

Gary walked over to the bed and crouched slightly so he was eye-level with Ash. "Alright, kiddo," he said gently, his voice slightly muffled by the mask. "How’re we feeling?"

Ash shrugged, his eyes darting toward the large tray of instruments Gary had brought in earlier. "I don’t know, Gary… kind of nervous, I guess."

Gary’s gloved hand rested lightly on Ash’s knee. "That’s totally normal, buddy. But I’m here, okay? We’re gonna take this one step at a time."

Ash nodded, though his fingers fidgeted with the hem of his hospital gown. "It’s just… this bone marrow thing. You sure it won’t hurt too much?"

Gary hesitated, wanting to be honest but also reassuring. "It might pinch for a second, and there could be some pressure, but I’ll do my best to keep you comfortable. And you’ll be able to hold my hand the whole time if you want."

Ash’s eyes lit up slightly at that, but he still looked nervous. "Really?"

"Of course," Gary said, his tone soft. "That’s what best friends are for, right?"

Ash managed a small smile. "Right."

Gary pulled a chair close to the bed and sat down beside him. "Okay, here’s the plan," he said, his tone calm and measured. "I’m going to numb the area first, so you won’t feel much. After that, I’ll use a special needle to collect a little bit of bone marrow from your hip. It’s gonna help us figure out what’s going on and how to treat you."

Ash bit his lip. "But why does it have to be my hip? Can’t you just, I don’t know, use my arm or something?"

Gary chuckled softly. "I wish it worked like that, Ashy-boy, but bone marrow lives in your bigger bones, like your pelvis. That’s why we have to do it there—it’s the safest spot."

Ash sighed but nodded. "Okay. If you say so."

"Hey," Gary said, his voice warm and reassuring. "You’re one of the bravest kids I know, Ash. You’ve got this."

Ash gave a weak smile, his fingers still fidgeting. "Thanks, Gary."

Gary reached over and squeezed Ash’s hand gently. "You’re welcome. Now, let’s get started, okay?"

Ash nodded, and Gary stood up, adjusting his gloves. He carefully prepped the area, pulling over a small tray with antiseptic wipes, the numbing injection, and the special needle for the procedure.

"Alright, Ash," Gary said as he gently adjusted the hospital gown to expose Ash’s hip. "I’m gonna clean the area first. This might feel a little cold."

Ash flinched slightly as Gary wiped the area with the antiseptic, but he didn’t say anything.

"Good job," Gary praised, his voice calm and steady. "Now for the numbing part. Just a tiny poke, okay?"

Ash nodded, clutching Pikachu close as Gary picked up the syringe. Pikachu stopped pacing for a moment and sat at the foot of the bed, watching intently.

"Deep breath in," Gary coached as he gently inserted the needle. "And out. There you go. All done with that part."

Ash relaxed slightly, though his grip on Pikachu didn’t loosen.

"Alright, buddy," Gary said, setting the syringe aside. "The numbing medicine will kick in soon. How’re you doing?"

Ash gave a small nod. "Okay, I guess."

Gary pulled his chair closer again and held out his hand. "Want to hold on? Just in case?"

Ash hesitated for a moment before gripping Gary’s hand tightly. "Yeah. Thanks."

Gary smiled behind his mask. "You’ve got it, kiddo. I’m right here."

Once the numbing agent had taken effect, Gary carefully picked up the specialized needle. "Okay, Ash. This is the big part. You might feel a little pressure, but remember—you’re holding my hand, and I’m not going anywhere."

Ash nodded, his knuckles white as he clutched Gary’s hand. "I’m ready."

"Good," Gary said softly. He gently inserted the needle, his movements precise and careful. "You’re doing amazing, Ash. Almost there."

Ash winced slightly, his breath hitching, but he didn’t let go of Gary’s hand. Pikachu, now perched on the pillow beside Ash, let out an encouraging "Pika pi!"

"Alright," Gary said after a moment, withdrawing the needle and placing the sample in a secure container. "And… done. You did it, Ashy-boy."

Ash let out a shaky breath, tears welling in his eyes. "That… wasn’t as bad as I thought."

Gary gently patted Ash’s shoulder. "Told you you’d get through it. You were really brave, buddy."

Ash wiped his eyes with his free hand, still holding tightly to Gary’s. "Thanks for letting me hold your hand."

Gary chuckled softly, pulling down his mask to reveal a warm smile. "Anytime, Ashy-boy. Anytime."

Pikachu let out a cheerful "Pika!" and climbed onto Ash’s lap, nuzzling him as if to say, You did great.

Gary stood and began cleaning up the instruments. "Now, let’s get you some juice and snacks, huh? You earned it."

Ash smiled weakly, leaning back against the pillow. "Yeah… that sounds good."

Gary ruffled Ash’s hair gently. "You’re gonna be just fine, buddy. I promise."

The air in the sterile hospital room was thick with tension. The bright lights reflected off the spotless white walls, and the faint hum of medical monitors filled the otherwise quiet space. Ash lay on a padded hospital bed, dressed in a hospital gown that felt way too flimsy for the situation. His face was pale, and his fingers gripped the edges of the blanket tightly.

Pikachu was pacing on the floor near the bed, ears twitching anxiously. Every now and then, the little Pokémon would glance at Ash with wide, worried eyes.

Gary stood nearby, adjusting his white coat over his familiar purple shirt. His face was partially hidden behind a surgical mask, and he wore a matching cap and gloves. The sterile attire made him look more intimidating than usual, though his eyes remained warm and reassuring. A tray of gleaming medical instruments sat on a cart beside him, neatly arranged and ready for the procedure.

"Alright, Ashy-boy," Gary said, his voice muffled slightly by the mask but still recognizable. "You hanging in there?"

Ash swallowed hard, his voice shaky. "I dunno, Gary... this is kinda freaking me out." His brown eyes flicked to the intimidating tray of instruments. "Like... what if it hurts? What if something goes wrong?"

Gary's eyes softened as he pulled up a stool and sat beside Ash. "Hey, I get it. This isn't exactly a picnic, but I promise I'm gonna be right here the whole time. We'll get through this together, alright?"

Ash nodded hesitantly. "You sure?"

"Positive," Gary said firmly. "And I never break a promise, do I?"

Ash managed a weak smile. "No... you don't."

Gary reached out and held Ash’s hand, giving it a gentle squeeze. "See? We got this. And just so you know, I’m wearing this ridiculous outfit for you." He gestured to his mask and gloves. "The hospital insists I go full-on ‘Dr. Oak’ mode for this kind of thing."

Ash snorted despite his nerves. "You look like you're about to perform surgery or something."

Gary grinned beneath the mask. "Well, technically, this is a big deal. Bone marrow aspiration isn’t something we take lightly, but it’s gonna give us important answers about what’s been going on with your health."

Ash's face fell. "Do I have to stay awake for it?"

Gary shook his head. "Nah, kiddo. You’ll be numbed up real good. I promise you won't feel a thing except maybe some pressure."

Ash's grip on Gary’s hand tightened. "You’re staying right here, though?"

Gary squeezed back. "You bet. Not going anywhere." He glanced down at Pikachu, who was still pacing. "Pikachu, you're gonna wear out the floor if you keep that up."

"Chu," Pikachu muttered, clearly not in the mood for jokes.

Gary chuckled. "Alright, let’s get started. Ash, just keep holding my hand, okay?"

Ash nodded, his knuckles turning white as he gripped Gary’s hand like it was a lifeline.

The nurse entered, bringing a tray with the numbing agent. Gary kept his eyes on Ash as he explained each step. "First, we’re gonna numb the area. That way, you won’t feel a thing when we go in. You cool with that?"

Ash’s voice was barely above a whisper. "Yeah... I guess."

Gary gave his hand another reassuring squeeze. "You’re doing great, Ashy-boy. I’m proud of you."

The nurse swabbed the area on Ash’s lower back with a cold antiseptic solution. Ash flinched. "That’s cold!"

"I know, buddy," Gary said. "But it’s better than feeling anything later, right?"

"Yeah, I guess..." Ash mumbled.

The nurse injected the numbing agent, and Ash winced but didn’t let go of Gary’s hand. Pikachu climbed onto the bed and nuzzled Ash’s arm, trying to comfort him.

"Thanks, Pikachu," Ash whispered, his voice trembling.

Gary smiled under his mask. "See? Even Pikachu’s got your back."

After a few minutes, the area was completely numb. Gary double-checked with the nurse before speaking to Ash again. "Alright, kiddo, we’re all set. Remember, just some pressure—nothing sharp, okay?"

Ash nodded, though his breathing was shallow. "Okay... just don’t let go, Gary."

"Never," Gary promised.

As the procedure began, Gary kept talking to distract Ash. "Hey, remember that time we got lost in Viridian Forest? You kept insisting we were going the right way even though we ended up in the same spot three times."

Ash managed a breathy laugh. "You mean the time Pikachu shocked us both because we stepped on his tail?"

Gary chuckled. "Yeah, that was definitely not our finest moment."

The conversation continued, with Gary expertly guiding Ash through the procedure. When the pressure increased slightly, Ash winced and gripped Gary’s hand even tighter.

"You’re doing amazing, Ash," Gary said gently. "Almost done, buddy. Just hang in there a little longer."

Ash's voice was shaky. "It hurts a little..."

"I know, I know," Gary soothed. "But you’re so brave, Ash. I’m really proud of you."

Finally, the nurse signaled that the procedure was complete. Gary carefully bandaged the site and helped Ash adjust his position on the bed.

"All done," Gary announced, pulling down his mask to flash Ash a big smile. "You were awesome, Ashy-boy. Seriously."

Ash's eyes were glossy with unshed tears, but he managed a small smile. "Thanks, Gary... for staying with me."

Gary ruffled Ash's hair. "Always, buddy. Now let’s get you some rest, and I’ll even sneak you some pudding from the cafeteria."

Ash's eyes lit up. "Pudding? Really?"

Gary winked. "Only for my bravest patient."

As Pikachu settled back down, finally at ease, Ash let out a content sigh. With Gary by his side, he knew he could handle anything.

The fluorescent lights of the hospital room cast a sterile glow on the pristine white walls. Machines hummed softly, their blinking lights adding an air of importance to the procedure about to take place. In the middle of the room was a hospital bed, adjusted to make its small occupant as comfortable as possible. Ash Ketchum sat nervously, swinging his legs over the edge. His hands were clenched tightly in his lap, and his usually bright brown eyes were clouded with apprehension.

"Hey, Ashy-boy," Gary greeted as he walked into the room. His voice was calm and reassuring, but the sight of him made Ash’s nerves spike. Gary was dressed for the occasion—a white coat draped over his signature purple shirt, gloves snapped tightly over his hands, and a surgical mask covering most of his face. His goggles rested on his forehead, ready to be pulled down when needed.

Ash blinked at him. "Gary... do you really have to wear all that?"

Gary chuckled softly, pulling the mask down briefly to reveal a warm smile. "Yeah, kiddo. It’s all part of keeping things clean and safe. We’re doing something important today, and we don’t want any germs messing it up."

Ash swallowed hard, his hands fidgeting. "But... it’s not gonna hurt, right?"

Gary walked closer, pulling a rolling stool over and sitting down in front of Ash. He gently placed a gloved hand on Ash’s knee. "It’s gonna feel a little weird, and it might sting for a second, but I promise I’ll be right here the whole time. You’re not going through this alone, okay?"

Ash hesitated, his eyes flicking over to Pikachu, who was pacing back and forth across the floor. Pikachu paused, looking up at Ash with concern, then resumed its frantic pacing.

"See? Even Pikachu’s nervous," Ash muttered, his voice barely above a whisper.

Gary leaned forward, his tone soft and steady. "That’s because Pikachu cares about you, just like I do. But you’re strong, Ash. You’ve been through so much already. This? You’ve got this, buddy."

Ash gave a shaky nod, his fingers still gripping the edge of the bed tightly. "What... what is this for again?"

Gary straightened up, his expression serious but gentle. "It’s a bone marrow test, Ash. We need to check your bone marrow to make sure everything’s working the way it should. It helps us figure out if there’s anything going on that we need to fix."

Ash frowned, processing the information. "But why my bone marrow? Why not, like, my blood or something?"

Gary smiled behind his mask. "Good question, kiddo. Blood tests are helpful, but sometimes we need to look deeper. Your bone marrow is where your blood cells are made. Checking it helps us see if your body’s making the right kinds of cells."

Ash let out a small sigh, his shoulders relaxing slightly. "Okay... I guess that makes sense."

Gary reached out, taking Ash’s smaller hand in his own gloved one. "I know it’s scary, but you’re doing great. And hey, you can hold my hand the whole time, alright?"

Ash looked up at him, his eyes wide and vulnerable. "Really?"

"Really," Gary said firmly. "I’m not going anywhere."

Ash nodded, gripping Gary’s hand tightly.

"Alright," Gary said, standing up and pulling his goggles down over his eyes. "Let’s get started." He motioned for the nurse, who brought over a small tray of sterile equipment. Gary glanced at Ash as he adjusted the bed’s position, laying it flat. "Lie back for me, buddy. Just like that. Good."

Ash obeyed, his other hand clutching Pikachu’s paw now that the little electric mouse had hopped onto the bed. Pikachu chirped softly, trying to comfort its trainer.

Gary gently lifted Ash’s shirt to expose his lower back, then swabbed the area with a cool antiseptic wipe. "This is gonna feel a bit cold," he said, noticing Ash flinch slightly. "You’re doing great, Ash."

Ash let out a shaky breath. "What happens now?"

Gary glanced at the nurse, who handed him a thin, hollow needle. "Now, I’m going to numb the area first. You might feel a little pinch, but it’ll help make the rest of this easier, okay?"

Ash nodded hesitantly, his grip on Gary’s hand tightening. "Okay... just—just don’t let go."

"I won’t," Gary promised, his voice steady as he carefully inserted the numbing injection. Ash winced, but Gary quickly rubbed his shoulder with his free hand. "Almost done with this part, kiddo. Deep breath in... and out. There we go."

Ash exhaled shakily, his knuckles white as he gripped Gary’s hand. "That wasn’t too bad."

Gary smiled behind his mask. "Told you. Now, the next part might feel like some pressure, but it shouldn’t hurt. If it does, you tell me right away, alright?"

"Alright," Ash whispered.

Gary positioned the special needle and gently inserted it into Ash’s hip bone. Ash gasped, his body tensing.

"Hey, hey, relax," Gary said soothingly. "I know it feels weird, but you’re doing amazing. Just keep holding my hand."

Ash nodded, his breaths coming out in short, quick puffs. Pikachu nuzzled his side, its warm presence a comfort.

"You’re almost there, buddy," Gary assured him as he drew out the marrow sample. "Just a few more seconds. Keep breathing for me."

Ash bit his lip, a tear slipping down his cheek. "It feels so... weird."

"I know," Gary said softly, his thumb rubbing small circles on Ash’s hand. "But you’re being so brave. I’m really proud of you, Ashy-boy."

Finally, Gary withdrew the needle, placing a sterile bandage over the site. "And... we’re done. That’s it."

Ash let out a shaky laugh, wiping at his eyes. "That was awful."

Gary chuckled, pulling his mask down to reveal a grin. "But you did it. See? You’re tougher than you think."

Ash sat up slowly, Pikachu jumping into his lap. "Thanks, Gary. For, you know... being here."

"Anytime, Ashy-boy," Gary said, ruffling Ash’s hair. "Now, how about we grab some ice cream after this?"

Ash’s eyes lit up. "Really?"

Gary smirked. "Really. You earned it, kiddo."