Love Sick
Part II: Prescription for Love
by Blaziken-AAML

Narrator: Last time, while Ash and his friends were taking a break, Misty was attacked by a group of Arbok, who thought she was trying to hurt their baby. Although Ash and Brock quickly came to her rescue, the occurrence left Misty ill and unable to go on. But, when all hope seemed lost, Brock remembered that Poison-cure berries were a remedy that could cure her, and he set out to find some while Ash stayed to care for Misty. Brock came across the berries, but he also came across trouble as he found himself surrounded by the same group of Arbok. Will Brock be able to get away safely with the berries Misty needs?

Ash’s voice: (introducing title) Part two: Prescription for Love!

The scene opens to Misty franticly running along a rocky path. The surrounding area, including the sky, is pitch-black. Frightened, she looks back and sees that she is still being chased by her deadly pursuer. She looks forward again and immediately skids to a halt. The path has come to a ledge, with a very steep fall that leads into the seemingly endless darkness. Misty, completely out of breath, looks down into the dark void, and then she hears a loud rumble from behind. She quickly turns around and gasps in horror to see that the thing she was running from has now caught up with her. The creature is an Arbok, the size of an Onix. It looks at her threateningly with glowing red eyes. Misty backs up all the way to the edge, causing a few rocks to fall. Then, without warning, the Arbok lunges forward, striking the ground just inches from where Misty stands. The shockwave of the attack causes her to fall backwards off the ledge.

Misty: (screaming) AHHHHHHHHHHHH!

Her scream echoes as she falls, and the darkness seems to consume her until she is completely gone from sight.

The scene re-opens to show Misty lying flat on her back, still surrounded by darkness. She has finally hit the ground at the bottom of the cliff, and the impact of the fall has now left her paralyzed. Misty has her eyes closed, wincing at the horrible pain that is now running through her entire body. A voice is then heard coming from the darkness.

A voice: Misty? Misty!

Recognizing the voice, Misty quickly opens her eyes. A second later, Ash appears from the darkness. Misty then struggles to speak through the pain as he walks closer.

Misty: (weakly) A-Ash…

Ash: (kneeling beside her) Don’t worry, Misty. I’m here to help you.

Misty then notices a giant shadow, with scary, glowing red eyes, appear behind Ash. Her face becomes filled with fear as the shadow comes closer. Ash doesn’t see the creature.

Misty: (weakly; frightened) Ash…Ash, look-…look out behind-

Ash: (reaching his hand toward her) Shhhh. Don’t try to speak, Misty. Save your strength. There’s nothing to worry ab- (GASPS)

Ash’s sentence is cut short when he is suddenly wrapped by what appears to be a large tail. The shadow is revealed to be the huge Arbok from before and it now has Ash in its coils. As it begins to tighten its grip, Ash continues to stretch out his hand, trying to reach Misty. Misty, still unable to move, watches in horror as her rescuer has the life slowly squeezed out of him.

Misty: (yelling) ASH!

At that moment, the terrible sound of bones breaking is heard and then Ash’s body goes limp in Arbok’s coils.

Misty: (devastated; tears forming) No…NO…

The scene zooms in on one of Misty’s tear-filled eyes, and the reflection of Arbok appears in it. With a snap of its tail, it tosses Ash’s lifeless body into the air, and then, with lightning speed, the Arbok’s jaws snap around him, and it swallows him in one gulp. The scene quickly fades as Misty screams.

Misty’s voice: (screaming) NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!

The scene opens again back inside the cabin, where Ash, Pikachu, and Togepi are now at Misty’s bedside. Ash has his hands on Misty’s shoulders, gently shaking her, trying to wake her from her nightmare. Misty, meanwhile, has her eyes tightly shut. She jerks her head from side to side, causing the washcloth on her head to fall off. All the while, she lightly whimpers.

Ash: (gently) Wake up, Misty. Misty. Come on, Misty, wake up.

Pikachu: Pika. Pikachu pi.

Togepi: Togipriiiii.

Misty finally wakes up, panting deeply. She stares up at the ceiling until she sees Ash at her side. With some unknown strength, she sits up in her bed, grabs a hold of him, and pulls him into a tight embrace. This catches Ash totally off guard.

Misty: (crying) ASH!

She continues to hold him as she cries. Ash also gently holds her in his arms. He can’t help but blush at what’s happening. As he holds her, he can feel that she is a lot warmer than she was before. He also feels that her skin and her shirt are saturated from the beads of sweat that cover her. Her fever is getting worse. Ash tries to calm her down so that she won’t push herself too hard.

Ash: (gently) Shhhh. It’s okay, Misty. I’m right here. You just had a bad dream. It’s over now.

Misty: (still crying, but a little calmer) Oh, Ash…I thought I’d lost you.

Ash: Don’t worry, you won’t lose me.

After awhile, Misty finally calms down and Ash helps her lie back down. She then looks at Pikachu and Togepi, who respond by smiling. She then looks back at Ash, who takes the washcloth which fell off of her head and soaks it in the water bowl.

Misty: Ash?

Ash: Hmmm? Yes, Misty?

Misty: (smiles) Thanks for staying here with me.

Ash: (smiles) No problem. But I’m still confused about why you wanted me to stay instead of Brock. He could have taken better care of you. Having to raise and take care of all his younger brothers and sisters, he has better doctoring skills than I do.

Misty: I know. But like I said, I didn’t want you to get hurt.

Ash: Well, Brock could get hurt, too, you know.

Misty: (teasingly) Well, there’s a difference between you and Brock. HE knows how to take care of himself.

Ash: (aggravated) Hey!

Ash quickly covers his mouth, realizing that he was rather loud. Pikachu and Togepi can’t help but laugh at his predicament. Misty lightly giggles at all this. Even Ash gives a small chuckle. Misty then looks at her Togepi. She thinks for a moment and then looks at Ash again.

Misty: Ash?

Ash: Yeah?

Misty: If anything were to happen to me, would you take care of Togepi and my other Pokémon for me?

Ash: (silent for a moment, then he nods) Of course I would. But you won’t have to worry about that. ‘Cause you’ll be around to take care of them.

Misty: (confused) Huh?

Ash: Misty, you’re going to pull through this. You’ll see. Once Brock gets back with those Poison-cure berries, you’ll be as good as new. Then we can continue on to the Johto League…(smiles) together.

After a moment, Misty smiles at Ash. There is just something about his cheerful attitude that always seems to chase away her fear and worry. She also admires his determination and how he never loses hope even in the most dire of situations.

Misty: (nods) You’re right, Ash. (pauses) Ash…about what I wanted to tell you earlier today…I- (Ash gently places his finger on her lips)

Ash: (gently) Shh. Rest now, Misty. Once you’re all better, you can tell me then. Okay?

Misty: (silent for a moment; smiles) Okay.

Misty closes her eyes again as Ash places the washcloth back on her forehead. Ash then looks at Togepi and picks it up.

Ash: (smiles) Don’t worry, Togepi. Misty will get better soon. I promise.

Togepi: (smiles back) Priii!

Pikachu: (smiles) Pikachu. (ears twitch) Pika?

Ash: (looks at Pikachu) Hmm? What is it, Pikachu?

Pikachu then goes over to the window, jumps on the window sill, and peers outside. It then motions to Ash to come take a look. Ash sets Togepi down and goes over to the window. When he looks outside, he immediately sees Crobat flying in front of the window.

Ash: Crobat?

Pikachu: Pika pi!

Ash sees Pikachu pointing at something farther outside. When Ash squints to get a better look, he sees that it’s a person…Brock! Brock is leaning against a tree, breathing heavily. Ash immediately runs outside, followed by Pikachu, and reaches Brock.

Ash: (worried) Brock! Are you okay?

Brock: (breathing in and out) Ash…I’m sorry…I wasn’t able to get…the berries.

Ash then notices something. One of Brock’s pant legs has a tear. Around the tear, there is a small stain of blood and what appears to be a bite mark on Brock’s leg.

Ash: (realizing) Oh, no. You were bitten.

Brock: Yeah. The berry bush I came across was right in the middle of the Arbok’s nesting grounds.

Ash: Brock, what happened?

Brock: It all happened so fast.

{FLASHBACK}

The scene now opens back to Brock being surrounded by the Arbok. Brock quickly takes out two Pokéballs.

Brock: (throws Pokéballs) Geodude, Onix, I choose you!

Both of his Pokémon appear and the battle begins. For the most part, Geodude and Onix are able to hold there own, but the Arbok just keep coming back for more. To make matters worse, Brock is unable to reach the Poison-cure berries. Just when things start to go in favor for Brock, the Arbok use Glare attacks, paralyzing both Geodude and Onix. As he calls them back, an Arbok lunges at him. Though he is able to move out of the way in time, the Arbok’s tail swings around and hits him on the chest, causing him fall to the ground. More Arbok start to move in, but Crobat, who is flying above, quickly uses Supersonic, which stops all the Arbok in their tracks. Brock, who is also caught by the attack, covers his ears. He then realizes that Crobat is creating a distraction, giving him the chance to escape. He looks toward the berry bush, but see that most of the Arbok are blocking his path to them.

Brock: (thinking) What can I do? I can’t just leave without the berries. But Crobat can’t hold back the Arbok much longer.

Just then, the Arbok leader starts shooting Poison Sting at Crobat, causing it to stop the Supersonic. Brock clenches his fists in frustration. Soon, the Arbok will shake off the effects of the Supersonic, and both Onix and Geodude are in no condition to battle. He knows it is hopeless.

Brock: (thinking) Misty…I’m sorry. (out loud) Crobat, let’s go!

Crobat nods and begins to retreat. As Brock begins to run, he looks back and notices that the leader has spotted him. It leaps into the air, fangs bearing, and heading straight for him. The scene quickly zooms in on Brock. The scene fades as he screams.

Brock: AHHHHHHHHHHHH!

{FLASHBACK ENDS}

The scene returns to Ash helping Brock inside the cabin and sitting him down.

Ash: (sighs) So, now we’re back where we started. Only this time, instead of one Arbok victim, we now have two.

Brock: (hangs head low) I’m really sorry, Ash.

There is silence. Ash looks over at Misty. She is still sleeping, but now she’s breathing more heavily. He knows that if he doesn’t do something soon, both Brock and Misty will…

Ash: It’s all right, Brock. You did your best. Now it’s my turn.

Brock: (sweatdrops) Ash, you can’t! It’s too dangerous! The Arbok are now carefully protecting that area. There’s no way you’re going to get close to the Poison-cure berries without getting bitten.

Ash: (serious) I don’t have a choice, Brock. Both your life and Misty’s are now in danger. You two are my friends, Brock, and I won’t let anything happen to you. And like you said, Misty can’t hang on much longer. It’s a risk I have to take.

Brock: (silent for awhile) Okay, Ash. (looks at Crobat) Crobat, I want you to take Ash back to where you found the berries, and I want you to do what he tells you.

Crobat: (nods) Crooo!

Ash: (smiles) Thanks, Crobat. Thanks, Brock. Take care of Misty and for me, okay?

Brock: (nods) I will. You just better come back in one piece, all right?

Ash: (nods) Right. C’mon, Pikachu.

Pikachu: (flexes its little muscles) Pika!

Ash takes one last look at Misty.

Ash: (thinking) I will be back, Misty. I promise. (out loud) See ya, Brock.

Brock: Good luck.

Ash and Pikachu then run out the door, and into the forest, with Crobat leading the way. Brock watches them run from sight.

Brock: (thinking) Please be careful, Ash. (looks over at Misty) And hurry back.

Back in the forest, Ash and Pikachu continue to follow Crobat. It’s starting to get late as the sun begins setting, giving the sky a yellow-orange color. Along the way, Ash releases all of his Pokémon, Bayleef, Cyndaquil, Noctowl, Phanpy, and Totodile, to help in case they run into any Arbok. They continue walking until they finally reach the nesting grounds. Ash and his Pokémon hide in the bushes as they look to see that all of the Arbok are there. Some have fallen asleep, while others continue to watch out for intruders. Ash also sees the Poison-cure berry bush on the opposite end of the nesting grounds.

Ash: (thinking) It’s too risky to move in and attack. Somehow, we’ve gotta lead the Arbok away so that we can get to the berries. (he thinks for awhile; then he turns to his Pokémon; whispering) Okay, here’s the plan. Noctowl and Crobat, I want you two to use your attacks to get the Arbok to follow you and lure them deep into the forest. But don’t try to actually hit the Arbok. We don’t want to harm them. Cyndaquil and Totodile, if there are still a few Arbok left, I want you to try and lure them away in the other direction. Once the coast is clear, I’ll make break for the bush and get the Poison-cure berries. Bayleef, Phanpy, and Pikachu, I want you to watch my back and keep any Arbok that come back at bay. Does everyone understand? (they all nod) Okay, let’s do it!

After a few moments, the plan sets into motion. Noctowl and Crobat fly over the trees and use Confusion and Supersonic to hit the ground all around the Arbok. This causes the Arbok that are asleep to wake up in a fright and anger the ones already awake. Then the Arbok retaliate by using Poison Sting and Acid. Noctowl and Crobat are able to dodge the attacks and begin to fly away, getting some of the Arbok to follow. A few Arbok remain behind, which cues Cydaquil and Totodile to continue the plan. They come out of the bushes from the other side and use Flamethrower and Water Gun. They then retreat into the forest and the remaining Arbok chase after them. The plan has succeeded.

Ash: (excited) Yes! It’s working!

Pikachu: (excited) Pika!

Ash: All right! Now’s our chance, you guys!

Ash and the rest of his Pokémon jump out from behind the bushes and start heading for the Poison-cure berry bush. Ash begins to climb up the rocky ledge while Pikachu, Bayleef, and Phanpy keep a look out. Ash finally reaches the bush, but before he picks the berries, he notices something behind the bush – the baby Arbok.

Ash: It’s the baby Arbok. (realizing) I see. This bush must be your nest.

Baby: (scared) Chaaabok!

Ash: Poor thing. You’re really scared of me, aren’t you? I guess I can’t really blame you. After all that’s happened, I’d be scared too. But I’m not going to hurt you. And I know Misty didn’t mean to-

Suddenly, the ground behind him explodes. Ash quickly turns around just in time to see the Arbok leader come out of the ground, strike, and sink its fangs deep into his shoulder.

Ash: (screams) AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!

Through his travels, Ash has felt many kinds of pain caused by Pokémon attacks. Pikachu’s Thunderbolt, Charizard’s Flamethrower, even Meowth’s Fury Swipes. But this pain is a whole new experience to him – and it really, REALLY HURTS!

After the leader unclamps its jaws, Ash falls to his knees, tightly clenching his new wound. As the leader prepares for another strike, it is stopped by a Thundershock from Pikachu.

Leader: (in pain) CHAAAAAAAAAAA!

Then Phanpy comes charging in and uses Take Down from behind, knocking the leader into the berry bush, causing a few berries to fall off and roll down the hill. Bayleef quickly pulls Ash away with Vine Whip. His Pokémon gather around him to see if he’s okay.

Pikachu: (worried) Pika pi!

Bayleef: (worried) Bay!

Phanpy: (worried) Phanpy!

Ash: (in pain) Owww! That really stings!

Ash’s Pokémon make motions that they should run, but Ash refuses.

Ash: (determined) We have to get those Poison-cure berries!

Ash looks to see that the leader has recovered and is ready to fight. Just then, Cyndaquil, Totodile, Noctowl, and Crobat come out of the forest and go over to Ash. Apparently, they doubled back when they heard his scream. Unfortunately, the Arbok have also returned and now surround Ash and his team.

Ash: (looks around; thinking) This is bad! There’s no way we can last very long against all of these Arbok. (looks at the leader) The leader is very protective of the baby Arbok. (realizing) It must be the baby’s parent! If I can just let it know that we don’t mean to hurt anyone... (out loud to the leader) Please Arbok, listen to me! You don’t have to fight with us!

Leader: Chaaa?

Ash: Listen, I’m sorry that we intruded on your nesting grounds, but we don’t mean you any harm! (flinches from the pain from his shoulder) All we want is to get some Poison-cure berries to save our friends! They never meant any harm either! And Misty, the girl who you attacked earlier today, especially never meant to hurt anyone! You have to believe me!

Pikachu: (translating) Pi pika! Pikachu! Pika pika! Chu pika! Chu! Pikachu pi chu! Pi chu! Pikachu!

Despite their efforts, the leader is not convinced. In fact, Pikachu’s mentioning of the girl who hurt its child causes it to become enraged even more. Without any warning, it yells an attack command to the other Arbok.

Leader: CHAAAAAAAABOOOOOOOOK!

With that, the battle begins. All the while, Pikachu and the other Pokémon are able to keep the Arbok from reaching Ash. The fight drags on, every Pokémon exchanging one attack after another. As Ash stands there in the middle of all the commotion, he notices that he is starting to feel strange. His vision goes blurry for a second and then goes back to normal, and he begins to have trouble standing.

Ash: (realizing; thinking) Oh, no! Arbok’s venom is taking effect. If I don’t do something soon, I won’t be able to help anyone.

He has a vision of Brock sitting against a wall of the cabin, breathing deeply from the fever. He then sees Misty lying in her sleeping bag, also breathing deeply, suffering…

Ash: Brock…Misty.

Just then, an Arbok that had lunged toward Ash is knocked back into the rocky hill by Phanpy. The impact causes a huge piece of rock to come loose and start rolling down the hill. Unfortunately, the rock is heading straight for the baby Arbok. Ash sees this, and, without thinking, makes a dash for the baby. With just a second to spare, Ash is able to pick up the baby Arbok and jump out of the way as the rock hits, barely escaping certain doom. All of the Pokémon stop fighting to see this. Even the leader, frightened by the tragedy that almost fell upon its child, is surprised by Ash’s action. After the dust settles, Ash checks to sees if the little Arbok is all right.

Ash: Hey, are you okay, Arbok?

Baby: (nods) Chaaa.

Ash: (smiles) I’m glad to hear it.

As the leader approaches, the baby sees it and quickly goes over to it. Ash stands up and watches as the parent rubs its head against its child’s head, happy that it is okay. Pikachu and the rest of Ash’s Pokémon come up to him, happy he is all right also.

Ash: (to his Pokémon) Are you guys okay? (they all nod) That’s good.

Suddenly, Ash flinches and falls to his knees and then he fell flat on the ground. His Pokémon gather around, wondering what’s the matter. Pikachu notices that there is a blood stain around the wound where Ash was bitten. It realizes right away that Ash is suffering from the poison from Arbok’s bite.

Pikachu: (worried) Pika pi!

Pikachu then looks to the side and there, on the ground, is a Poison-cure berry that had fallen off from before. Pikachu quickly goes over, picks up the berry, and brings it over to Ash.

Pikachu: Pika pi! Pikachu!

Ash: (looks at Pikachu and sees the berry) Pikachu…is that …a Poison-cure berry?

Pikachu: (nods) Pika!

With that, Ash takes the berry, places it in his mouth and chews it. The juice of the berry is a bit sour, but not enough for Ash to have to spit it out. After a few chews, Ash finally swallows the berry, but because of the venom going through his system, he then blacks out.

The scene remains pitch black for a few seconds, and then it opens to an area completely different from where Ash was a little while ago. It’s an area on the edge of a forest and there is a river next to it. Ash’s voice is then heard.

Ash’s voice: (confused) W-Where am I? This isn’t the Arbok’s nesting grounds. (pauses) But…something about this place…seems…familiar.

The scene then shows a person sitting on a rock at the edge of the river. A closer look shows that it is a young girl with red hair, which is tied in a ponytail. She is wearing a yellow shirt, blue jean shorts, and suspenders, and has a fishing pole in her hands. Ash immediately knows who she is.

Ash’s voice: Misty! She’s okay! (pauses) Wait a minute. Where’s Togepi? And Brock?

Just then, there’s a tug on Misty’s line. After a minute of tugging, she is able to pull her catch out of the water. But what she caught isn’t a Water Pokémon. Instead, it’s a boy about her age, holding a Pikachu in his arms.

Ash’s voice: (shocked) That’s me! (thinks for a moment) Oh, now I remember. This was when I first met Misty. (realizing) So, this is one of my memories.

Soon after, more memories begin to flood Ash’s subconscious. His travels through the Indigo Region, the Orange Islands, and the Johto Region, and meeting his friends, Brock, Tracey, and many others. As Ash watches these images flow through his mind, he notices how Misty appears in every single one of them. It is then that Ash makes a discovery.

Ash’s voice: I never really thought much about it until now, but Misty has been with me all this time. When Brock and Tracey left on their own to follow their dreams, Misty was always there to look after me, helping me out when I was in danger, cheering for me when I was battling. She also had the chance to leave as well. She could’ve chosen to live a happy life with Rudy, a successful Gym Leader, on Trovita Island. Instead, she chose to continue traveling with me, an average Pokémon trainer. Could it be that she really cares about me? That she…likes me?

Ash’s thoughts are interrupted when all of his memories are replaced a bright white background, and Ash sees himself, standing in the center of it. And then, right in front of him, Misty slowly begins appear, until she is completely in sight. Her eyes, which were at first lightly closed, slowly open, revealing their stunning aqua-blue color, which seem to sparkle as she smiles. Ash then senses emotions within him begin to stir. Emotions he never knew he had.

Ash’s voice: What’s happening to me? I can feel my heart beating very fast. I also feel warm…and dizzy…but in a good way. (pauses) Could it mean that I also really care for Misty? More than a friend?

Misty blinks a few times, continuing to show Ash her pretty smile. After a moment, Ash returns the favor by smiling back at Misty, and finally is able to answer his own question.

Ash voice: Yeah…I do. I care deeply for her.

With that, both Ash and Misty move closer to each other, and then embrace in a heartwarming hug. Then, as the scene begins to fade, Ash speaks his final thought.

Ash’s voice: (echoes) I love her.

Suddenly, the scene opens again as Ash regains consciousness. He slowly sits up and looks to see that he’s back in the Arbok’s nesting grounds. He also sees all of his Pokémon gathered around him. Pikachu then happily jumps into Ash’s arms.

Pikachu: (happily) Pika pi!

Ash: (happily) Pikachu! Hahahaha! (thinks of something) Pikachu, how long was I unconscious? Was I out for very long?

Pikachu: (shakes its head) Pika.

Just to be sure, Ash quickly looks up at the sky and notices that its color hasn’t changed very much, if at all. He then realizes that he was only out for about a minute.

Ash: (stands up) Wow. Those berries really work fast. I feel better already.

Ash looks and sees that the Arbok are still there, only they are not as hostile as before. He sees the leader and the baby standing a few feet in front of in front of him and his Pokémon. He carefully walks towards them and then stops.

Ash: Please, Arbok. My friend, Misty, didn’t mean to hurt your baby. It was all an accident. She’s really a gentle person. She’s very sorry for what happened. Please don’t be angry with us anymore. (tears start to form in his eyes) Please don’t be angry with her anymore.

There is silence. Both the leader and Ash stare into each other’s eyes for a long time. The leader then slithers toward the bush and tears off a branch with many berries on it. It then approaches Ash and holds out the branch to him in its mouth.

Ash: You…want me to have this?

It nods. Ash then takes the branch and stares at it. He can feel the tears in his eyes start to swell up. He quickly hides his eyes underneath his hat and wipes them with his arm. When he finishes, he looks at the leader and smiles.

Ash: (smiling) Thank you, Arbok. I knew you’d understand.

Pikachu: (jumps on Ash’s shoulder; smiling) Pikachu.

Both the leader and the baby smile back. Ash then turns to his Pokémon, who already started to gather around him.

Ash: (smiling) This is great! Now I can save Misty for sure!

Pikachu: Pika pi.

Ash: (looks at Pikachu) Huh?

Pikachu: (squints eyes to look like Brock’s) Pikachu, pika pika chu.

Ash: (confused) Uh…(realizing) Oh, you mean Brock! (sweatdrops) Of course I didn’t forget about him. I’m just a little more worried about Misty because……uh……well……b-because her condition is a little more severe than his is.

Pikachu: (teasingly) Pika pi, pika.

Ash blushes in embarrassment as Pikachu and the rest of his Pokémon begin laughing. They have always believed that Ash had feelings for Misty, and now that his thoughts have betrayed him, they now know for certain.

After a minute of ridicule, Ash shakes off his embarrassment and tries to become serious.

Ash: Okay, guys, that’s enough. In any case, I think it’s time for us to get back to the cabin and give Misty and Brock the berries. (looks at Crobat) Crobat, lead us- Ahhhh!

Ash’s sentence is cut short when a net is thrown over him, Pikachu, and the rest of his Pokémon, and then is lifted into the air.

Ash: (confused) Hey! What’s going on here?!

A female voice: Prepare for trouble!

A male voice: And make it double!

Ash: (realizing) Oh, no! Not them! Not now!

Up in the air, riding in an all-too-familiar Meowth Balloon, is none other than Team Rocket.

Jessie: To protect the world from devastation!

James: To unite all peoples within our nation!

Jessie: To denounce the evils of truth and love!

James: To extend our reach to the stars above!

Jessie: Jessie!

James: James!

Jessie: Team Rocket, blast off at the speed of light!

James: Surrender now or prepare to fight, fight, fight!

Meowth: (jumps up) Meowth, that’s right!

Wobbuffet: (pops up in front of Meowth) Woooooooooooobbuffet!

Ash: (aggravated) Team Rocket! Look, I don’t have time to deal with you right now! My friends are sick. I need to get these berries back to them so they can get better!

Pikachu: (agreeing) Pika!

James: (sarcastic) Well, that’s very touching, twerp.

Jessie: Unfortunately for your friends, you won’t be able to get back to them, because we’re taking you and this Pokémon bonanza straight to the boss.

Meowth: Yeah. And once he sees that we have all of these great Pokémon, plus a new servant, he’ll give us that huge promotion we’ve been waiting for!

Jessie and James: (excited) YAAAAAAAAY!

Wobbuffet: Wob!

Ash: (frustrated; thinking) I’ve gotta think of something!

Just then, shoots a stream of acid splashes and burns up the rope that was holding the net, causing Ash and his Pokémon to plummet the ground. Fortunately, a few Arbok are gathered below and use their coils to catch them. Ash looks to where the acid came from and sees the Arbok leader smiling at him.

Ash: (happy) Arbok!

Pikachu: (happy) Pi pika!

James: (whines) Ahhhhh! There goes our promotion!

Meowth: (angry) Grrr! I can’t believe it! Those sneaky snakes stole the twerp and his Pokémon from us! That’s not fair!

James: That’s right! We stole them fair and square!

Wobbuffet: Wobba!

Jessie: (yelling) STOP YOUR WHINING AND DO SOMETHING! WE’RE TOO CLOSE TO GIVE UP AND GO BACK EMPTY- HANDED!

Ash: You don’t have to worry about that, Team Rocket!

James, Jessie, and Meowth: Huh?

They look and see Ash and his Pokémon are now out of the net.

Ash: We’ll give you something for all your trouble! Pikachu, use your Thunderbolt attack!

Pikachu: (cheeks spark) PIIIKAAAA- (launches attack) CHUUUUUUU!!!

Team Rocket screams in pain as the attack electrocutes them. After a minute, their Meowth Balloon explodes, sending Team Rocket, burnt to a crisp, skyrocketing.

Jessie: (angry) We barely make our appearance for not even three minutes and we’re already making our exit!

James: (smiles) It isn’t a total loss, Jess. We just set a new record for when we’re sent flying.

Meowth: (cheerful) Well, at least there is a bright side to this.

Jessie: (sighing) Oh, well. All together now…

James, Jessie, and Meowth: LOOKS LIKE TEAM ROCKET’S BLASTING OFF AGAIN!!!

Wobbuffet: WOBBAAAAAAAAAAFET!!!

They disappear into the sky and a light twinkles. All of Ash’s Pokémon jump up and down with joy.

Ash: (to Arbok leader) Thanks for your help, Arbok. We really appreciate it.

Leader: (smiles) Chaaabok.

Ash: (to his Pokémon) Well, guys, it’s time to go. Lead the way, Crobat.

With that, Crobat begins flying in the direction that the cabin is in, with Ash, Pikachu, and the rest of his Pokémon following. As they head into the forest, Ash takes one last look back toward the group of Arbok, who are smiling. He smiles back and then follows after his Pokémon.

Back inside the cabin, Brock is checking on Misty. He places his hand on her head to check her temperature. To him, it feels like touching a tail of a Charmeleon. He also notices that her breathing has slowed as well. He then places the washcloth back on her head.

Brock: Misty, you’ve got to hang on just a little longer. Ash should be back soon.

He then gets up and walks over to the window. Along the way, he stumbles, but is able to regain his footing. Because Brock is older than Misty and Ash, and since he was only bitten once, on the leg, the Arbok’s venom took more time traveling through his blood stream. But now, he is starting to feel its effect. He is able to reach the window, and at that moment, he sees his Crobat flying straight for the cabin. Brock heads outside, and Crobat immediately flies down, and they embrace, happy to see each other.

Brock: (happy) Crobat! I’m so glad you’re okay. (looks toward the forest) Where are Ash and Pikachu?

A second later, Pikachu and Ash come into view. Along the way, Ash had already returned the rest of his Pokémon to their Pokéballs.

Brock: Pikachu! Ash!

Ash: Hey, Brock! (shows him the berries) I got the Poison-cure berries!

Brock: (relieved) That’s great. (notices Ash’s wound) Ash, your shoulder! Don’t tell me…

Ash: Yeah. I was bitten. But I ate one of these berries and it cured me in no time. (picks a berry off of the branch and hands it to Brock) Here you go, Brock. Just to let you know, the berries taste a little sour.

Brock: Thanks. (eats berry)

Ash: How’s Misty?

Brock: (swallows berry) She’s hanging on by a thread. We should hurry inside.

Ash: Right.

Pikachu: Chu.

Brock: (holds Pokéball) Crobat, return. (calls back Crobat)

Once they get inside, Ash immediately goes over to Misty, and Pikachu goes over to Togepi, who had just woken up from a nap.

Togepi: Togi priii!

Pikachu: Pi pi pi!

Ash: (whispering) Everything’s going to be all right now, Misty. Just hang in there.

Brock: (comes over to Ash) Ash, let me have the berries.

Ash: (confused) Why?

Brock: I think it will be easier for Misty if we just squeeze the juice out of the berries and then have her drink the juice. In her condition, I don’t think she has the energy to chew up the berries.

Ash: Oh. (remembers what the Pokédex said about the berry juice) Good idea, Brock.

Brock quickly takes the branch of berries and starts picking each berry and squeezing the juice into a small cup. When he finishes, the cup is full of lime-green colored liquid. He brings it over to Ash, who gently props Misty’s head up with his arm.

Brock: Here, Ash. (hands the cup to Ash) All of this juice should quickly neutralize all of the poison that’s in her system.

Ash: Right. (whispers) Misty, I need you to drink this. It’ll taste a little sour, but it will help you get better.

Ash then gently puts the cup to Misty’s lips and tips it up. As she sips the juice, she lets out a little moan and her eyes twitch due to the sourness. However, she is able to gulp all of it down without much difficulty. Ash then takes the empty cup from her lips and he continues to hold her, waiting to see what happens. Brock, Pikachu, and Togepi also stand close, waiting for a result. After a few minutes, everyone watches in astonishment as the redness in Misty’s face begins to fade quickly. It continues to fade until it is completely gone. All of the sweat that covered her also disappears. Ash can feel that her temperature is also beginning to go back to normal. And then, even though her eyes are still closed, Misty gives a small smile, signaling that she’s feeling better.

Brock: (relieved) It looks like Misty is feeling a lot better.

Ash: (gets teary-eyed) Thank goodness.

Pikachu: (happy) Pikachu pi.

Togepi: (happy) Togi.

Ash: (wipes his eyes and turns to Brock) How ‘bout you, Brock? Feeling better?

Brock: (nods) Yeah. You were right. Those berries fix you up in no time. I’m just amazed at how fast they cured Misty. Actually, I’m quite amazed that she was able to hold on this long.

Ash: (smiles) Like I told you, Brock, Misty is a strong girl.

Brock: (smiles) Heh. Again, you were right. Right now, I think it’s best to let her sleep. In fact, I think we should all get some sleep too, seeing how it’s now dark outside. She should be up and about tomorrow morning.

Brock starts getting out his sleeping bag, Pikachu carries Togepi over to the group’s backpacks, and Ash gently tucks Misty in and looks at her.

Ash: (smiling; thinking) I knew you could make it, Misty. I’ll see you in the morning.

He gently touches Misty’s cheek. He then looks over to see Brock turned the other way, rolling out his sleeping bag. With that, Ash turns back to Misty, gently leans down, and gives her a small kiss on her forehead. As Ash leans back up, he looks to his side to see Pikachu and Togepi standing beside him, watching the entire thing.

Pikachu: (teasing) Pika pi.

Togepi: (clapping its little hands; cheerful) Priii! Priii!

Ash blushes with embarrassment, but is able to smile at them.

Ash: (smiles) Very funny. Now go to bed, you little sneaks.

As the two Pokémon go back to the backpacks and eventually go to sleep, Ash gets into his sleeping bag, and, after a few minutes, falls asleep as the scene fades.

The scene now opens to Misty standing in the middle of total darkness. She looks all around her, wondering where she is. She then looks and sees, standing right in front of her, the same giant Arbok from her first dream. She stands there, quickly filling up with fear, as the Arbok’s head creeps closer to her. Misty quickly closes her eyes tightly, waiting for the end. Just then, she hears a familiar voice.

Ash: Misty. Hey, Misty!

Misty: (opening her eyes) Huh?

The area goes bright white as she looks and sees that Ash is sitting on top of the Arbok’s head.

Misty: (surprised) Ash?

Ash: (pats the Arbok’s head) Don’t be afraid. It won’t hurt you.

The Arbok’s expression has changed from hostile to gentle.

Ash: Everything’s all right now, just I like said it would be. (holds out his hand to her; smiling) Come on. Let’s get you out of here.

Misty: (smiling) Oh, Ash.

Misty takes hold of Ash’s hand as the scene goes white and fades.

The scene returns to Misty sleeping in her sleeping bag. Her eyes open slowly, blinks a couple of times, and then she sits up, yawns, and stretches.

Misty: Wow. I feel much better. I guess that means I’ve fully recovered from that fever.

She then looks around the cabin. She sees Brock, Pikachu, and Togepi still sleeping…but where’s Ash? She then looks beside her…and there’s Ash asleep right next to her. Sometime during the night, Ash, worried about Misty, moved his sleeping bag closer to hers in order to keep an eye on her.

Ash: (talking in his sleep) Misty…

Misty: Huh? (realizing) He’s dreaming.

Ash: You’re gonna be all right, Misty…I won’t let anything happen to you…I promise…

Misty: (lightly blushing) Ash…

She gently leans down and gives him a small kiss on his cheek. She then quietly gets out of bed, puts on her shoes, and steps outside for some fresh air. She watches as the sun slowly begins to rise over the trees.

Misty: (thinking) Ash’s concern for me is very sweet. I’m very lucky to have a friend like him. In fact, I‘d have to that he is my number one best friend. Though, I must admit, I never knew that Ash had such feelings for me. Could it be-

Her thoughts are interrupted by a voice calling her name.

Ash: Misty!

She turns around to see Ash running toward her. He stops just a few feet in front of her.

Misty: Morning, Ash.

Ash: I was worried. When I woke up and saw that you were gone, I thought something bad had happened. You should be resting.

Misty: (giggling) It’s okay, Ash. I’m feeling much better now.

Ash: Are you sure?

Misty: (nods) Mmmhmm. (pauses) Tell me something, Ash. It was you who got the Poison-cure berries, wasn’t it?

Ash: (sweatdrops) W-what makes you think that?

Misty: (shrugs shoulders) Oh, just a hunch. (points to Ash’s shoulder) Plus, I couldn’t help notice that dried-up blood stain on your jacket which probably means you were bitten by an Arbok.

Ash quickly puts his hand over the blood stained area. He had forgotten to take care of it last night. He’s worried now because he figures that Misty is probably mad at him for going and getting himself hurt, especially after she asked him not to.

Ash: (silent for a second; nods) Yeah, I did get bitten. Brock got bit by the Arbok as well and he wasn’t able to get the berries. So, it was up to me to go and get them for the both of you.

Misty: I see. (silent for a moment) Well, thank you, Ash.

Ash: So, does this mean you’re not mad at me.

Misty: Well, I am a little mad at you for leaving and getting yourself hurt. (pauses) But, seeing as how you’re okay, and Brock and I are back to normal, I can forgive you. And, like always, it was really brave of you to risk your life for us, Ash.

Ash: You’re my friends. I’d risk my life anytime to help you guys. Besides, you would’ve done the same for me. As a matter of fact, you did do the same, Misty. That time during the Orange Islands, when Tracey and I accidentally inhaled that Vileplume’s Stun Spore, and you helped us by getting that Salveo weed to cure us.

Misty: (smiling) That’s what friends are for, right?

Ash: (nods) Right.

Both of them stand silent for awhile. Then Misty realizes something.

Misty: (thinking) Hey! This is the best chance I could’ve ever asked for to tell Ash how I feel about him. Besides, he did say that once I was better, I could tell him.

Before Misty is able to speak, Ash speaks up first.

Ash: (hesitates) Misty, can I tell you something?

Misty: (sighing) Sure, Ash. (thinking) Oh well, I can still tell him after he’s done.

Ash: (gulps) Well, to be honest, I didn’t think I would tell you this so soon. But after all that’s happened, I feel that I should go ahead and tell you now.

Misty: (thinking) Why does that sound so familiar?

Ash: Misty, you and I have been friends for a long time and have traveled together for quite awhile. And despite all sorts of danger we’ve been through and all of the endless battling with Team Rocket, you’ve stayed by my side.

Misty: (still thinking) I can’t believe this! He’s making the speech that I was going to make to him! (realizing) That means…

Ash: The reason may be because of the bike I still owe you, which I promise I’ll pay you back for someday. But…whatever the reason, I really glad you stayed with me.

Misty: Ash, I-

Ash: (interrupting) Please, Misty, let me finish. (pauses) What I’m trying to say is that… (blushes; smiling) I love you, Misty. I never truly realized it ‘til just yesterday, but…I love you.

Misty blushes upon hearing those words. A minute later, tears start to trickle down here cheeks, which surprises Ash. She then grabs him into a tight hug and continues to cry.

Misty: (crying) Oh, Ash.

Ash: (confused) What’s the matter, Misty? Why are you crying?

Misty: (still crying; looks at Ash with a smile) I’m crying because I’m happy, Ash. I’m happy to hear you say that. For a long time, I wondered whether you loved me or not. But now that I know, I’m happy.

Ash: (smiling) Misty…

Misty: (becomes angry) And I’m also crying because I’m upset, you jerk!

Ash: (confused) Huh? What do you mean?!

Ash: (laughing) Hahahaha! So that’s what you were trying to tell me yesterday. (realizing) Does that mean…

Misty wipes her eyes dry and then nods.

Misty: (blushing; smiling) I love you, too, Ash. Of course, I truly realized it a long time ago.

It’s Ash turn to blush even more. Before Ash can reply, Misty gently wraps her arms around his neck, moves in closer, and locks her lips with his into a sweet kiss. After a minute of being in shock, Ash comes to his senses. He then instinctively wraps his arms around Misty, and pulls her in closer, deepening the kiss.

As they stand there, waves of emotion begin flowing through their bodies, both of them feeling as if they were floating in mid-air. For Misty, this is the moment she had been waiting to experience, to share her first kiss with the boy she fell in love with. It even tops the feeling of catching a new Water Pokémon. As for Ash, the feeling of catching a rare Pokémon, winning a Pokémon battle, or earning a new Gym Badge, can’t even compare to this feeling that he is now sharing with the girl he loves. Ash and Misty continued to kiss for five minutes, enjoying every second, only breaking apart once or twice just to catch their breath before resuming the kiss. Until…

Brock: (cheerful) Good morning, you two!

Pikachu: (cheerful) Pika pika!

Togepi: (cheerful) Priiiii!

Ash and Misty suddenly break the kiss, blushing wildly, and searching for the source of the voices. They then stop to find Brock, Pikachu, and Togepi, standing in the doorway of the cabin, looking cheerfully back at them.

Ash: (eyes squinted; sarcastic) Morning, Brock.

Misty: (aggravated) And how long have you been standing there?

Brock: (laughing) Long enough.

With that, both Pikachu and Togepi run to their trainers. Misty kneels down as Togepi jumps into her arms, happy that she’s all better, and Pikachu takes a huge leap right onto Ash’s shoulder.

Pikachu: Pika pi!

Ash: (chuckles) Good morning to you, too, Pikachu.

Misty: (giggles) Togepi.

Togepi: Togi, togi priii!.

Brock: (walks up) I really hope we didn’t spoil the moment.

Misty: (calm, but still aggravated) Well, if you were standing there the entire time while we were kissing, then not only did you spoil the moment, but you totally invaded our privacy.

Ash: Brock, were you really there the whole time?

Brock: (chuckling) Actually, no. Pikachu and Togepi woke me up not too long ago and pointed towards the door. I noticed then that you weren’t in your sleeping bags, so I assumed that they were telling me that you were out here. When I followed them to the door and then saw you two…uh…well, you know…I only watched for about half a minute. That’s the truth.

Misty: Well, if that’s how long you were there, (smiles) then I guess we can forgive you. You just caught us by surprise.

Ash: (smiles) Yeah. Anyway, you probably would’ve found out sooner or later.

Brock: Probably. To be perfectly honest, I’m quite surprised that out of all people, you two would the ones to fall in love with each other. (Ash and Misty have sweatdrops) But, at the same time, it actually makes a lot more sense that you two are perfect for each other. (smiling) I’m truly happy for the both of you.

Ash and Misty: Thank you, Brock.

Brock: (suddenly becomes depressed; lowers his head) Although, now I can’t help but feel a little discouraged that Ash got a girl before me! (groans)

Ash: (sweatdrops) Uh…Don’t worry, Brock. I’m sure you’ll find the right girl someday.

Brock: (quickly becomes cheerful; smiling) You’re right, Ash! With my manly looks and irresistible charm, sooner or later, tons of beautiful girls will fall head over heels to be with me!

Misty: (bluntly) In that case, you may have to settle for “later.” Much later.

This causes Brock to fall over in stupidity. He quickly regains himself and has ticked-off mark on his forehead.

Brock: (aggravated) Misty!!!

Ash, Misty, Pikachu, and Togepi laugh at Brock’s misfortune. Brock then changes the subject.

Brock: (points to Ash’s shoulder) By the way, Ash, we should really take care of that wound now. We don’t want it to become infected. (smiles) Besides, it wouldn’t be good to have anything happen to you, now that you and Misty have found love.

Ash: (looks at his shoulder and then looks back at Brock; smiling) You’re right, Brock. Thanks for reminding me.

Pikachu: Pika. (ears twitch) Pi?

Ash: Huh? What’s the matter, Pikachu?

Pikachu: (points) Pikachu!

Ash looks to where Pikachu is pointing, as do Brock and Misty, and they see the Arbok leader, its child, and the rest of the group, standing at the edge of the forest looking at them.

Misty: (freaking out) The Arbok!

Brock: (freaking out) Oh, no!

The leader and the child begin to approach, causing Misty and Brock to hide behind Ash. Despite having made peace with the Arbok, even Ash can’t help being a little frightened at first.

Ash: (sweatdrops) It’s okay, guys. I don’t think the Arbok are here to hurt us. (thinking) I hope.

The leader stops a few feet in front of them. There is something different about it this time. It doesn’t look angry, it looks…saddened.

Leader: Chabok, chaaa. Chaaabok.

Pikachu: Pika?

Brock: What’s it saying, Pikachu?

Ash: I think it’s saying it’s sorry for all that happened yesterday.

Misty: Is that true, Pikachu?

Pikachu: (nods) Chu.

Brock and Misty come out from behind Ash and carefully come close to the leader. When they do, it doesn’t get hostile. Then, they slowly reach out there hands to touch it and it lets them. When they finish, it then looks at Misty

Leader: (to Misty) Chaabok.

Misty: (smiles) It’s okay. It’s not your fault. You were just protecting your baby. I probably would’ve done the same thing if I thought someone tried to hurt my Togepi.

Brock: (silently) That’s for sure. In fact, when it comes to being protective of Togepi, you’re even scarier than Arbok.

Misty elbows Brock in the ribs. He then laughs nervously as he rubs his side.

Misty: Anyway, I really should be thanking you, Arbok.

Leader: Chaaa?

Misty: If it weren’t for you, none of this would’ve happened, and Ash would’ve never realized his love for me.

Ash puts his hand behind his head in embarrassment. Misty giggles at this. She then looks down to see the baby Arbok come towards her.

Misty: (kneels down) I know I owe you an apology, little one. I’m very sorry for hitting you with that rock. Can you forgive me?

Baby: (nods) Chaaa.

Misty then smiles and gently pets it on the head. It then licks her hand with its little fork tongue, causing Misty to giggle.

Misty: (giggling) Hey, that tickles.

Ash and Brock smile at this, as do Pikachu, the leader, and the other Arbok.

The scene then fades to Ash, Misty, and Brock, standing on a clear path. They’re fully healed and their wounds are all patched up. They have all of their stuff packed and are ready to continue the journey. They then turn and wave goodbye to their newfound friends.

Ash: Take care of yourselves, Arbok!

Pikachu: Pikachu!

Misty: Goodbye!

Togepi: Togipriii!

Brock: So long!

The Arbok smile and also say goodbye in their Pokémon tongue. Ash and his friends then head along the path.

Narrator: After an incredible ordeal, our heroes finally get back on the road to the Johto League.

As they continue to walk along the path, Misty wraps her arm around Ash’s arm, causing him to blush.

Narrator: And with love finally revealed between Ash and Misty, the journey continues to get interesting.

The fades and opens again to show Team Rocket walking through the forest, moping over their defeat.

James: (whining) I told you we should’ve tried to capture those Arbok, Jess.

Jessie: (annoyed) And I told you that I already have an Arbok.

Meowth: Yeah, but unlike your Arbok, those Arbok are tough. (Jessie grabs him by his charm) Ahhh!

Jessie: (angry) Care to repeat that, fuzz ball?!

James: Jessie, we know your Arbok is tough. It’s just that I can’t think of anything more frightening than a whole team of Arbok.

James kicks a rock into a nearby bush, causing a bunch of Beedrill to fly up angrily and surround them. Seeing this causes Team Rocket to have sweatdrops galore.

Meowth: (screeching) Except maybe a whole swarm of Beedrill!!!

With their stingers forward, the Beedrill start flying towards them. The scene then shoots toward the sky as the screams of Team Rocket are heard.

James, Jessie, and Meowth: (screaming) AHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!

THE END