Open Up, Just For Me!

Part 10

*****

Location and Setting: Dorien knocked and knocked on the door persistent to trying to get Misty’s attention, but there was no confirmation that she was even there. Dorien told her he just wanted to talk to her. Still, no sign.

Ash heard all this from afar and knew that he was going to have the same luck as Dorien had with Misty. Ash knew that she wouldn’t open. It was her time to think and she would be in her own world.

No, it wasn’t going to work. Storming in there, trying to break open the door wasn’t going to work. Considering Dorien was there banging on the door, Ash wouldn’t have a chance at all. He had to think of something else. He had to think of a way to see her. He had to think of a way to get in there. There was a way.

Ash went to a storage room where he had once saw a ladder when he was cleaning the gym. It was cluttered inside, but just to the right corner of the room, there was the ladder. Ash took it with him and headed outside.

*****

Location: Outside the gym.

Ash had to remember what room it was looking from the outside. He thought it was much more easier if his pokemon would be there to help him, but he knew it wasn’t the right time to ask them for help.

“There!” Ash stated hopeful that instinct would let him pick the right window. Ash positioned the ladder to the window. As he climbed up, he couldn’t help but wonder where the sisters might have gotten a ladder so long it would reach a 30 foot raised window.

Climbing up all the way, Ash had realized it wasn’t all that high. He had climbed up more dangerous places than this. Places where at the bottom of the fall were rigid rocks that would pierce the flesh if he had fallen. At least here, if he fell, the grass was lush and would cushion his fall just enough to survive.

Looking through the window, he realized that no one was there. Yes, it was Misty’s room. There was her vanity mirror he had looked himself on. She must be in one of her sister’s room.

Carefully, Ash kept the wall of the dome to his back as he sidled trying to get to the other windows. The wind blew and his view was wavered by the flying debris the wind carrying along; Ash had to be more careful. His pace slowed fearing that a fall would occur. His arms kept to the wall and started to perspire making his grip to the wall non-existent.

Finally, Ash sighed as he reached the window. He had now to look inside for Misty. No one, no sign, was there.

Ash couldn’t do anything but go on to the next window. The last window didn’t look familiar at all. On the second story of the Cerulean Gym, there are five rooms. Ash had stayed in the guest room with Brock and the other guys. He had visited Misty’s room the night to invite May and her to a little get together. Ash had entered Daisy’s room when upon her request yesterday. He had also slept in Lily’s room, where the horrible accident had taken place. That meant that the room that didn’t look familiar was Violets. If that was true, then the next window would be Daisy’s.

Ash had a lot more confidence in his sidling. He pace was a lot faster this time. If it were night time and Ash had been doing this, people inside the gym would have thought he were a cat burglar.

From inside the window, Misty heard footsteps from outside. She had thought it was her imagination, or worst her conscience, playing tricks on her. She didn’t believe anyone would be out there in the first place so she dismissed it and continued to ponder what her next move was.

Let’s take a good look at her options are. She would go back outside to talk to Dorien and apologize to the guests for running out. Then she would have to disappoint everyone by canceling the wedding. That would mean that all the preparation and hard work would be all for nothing. The guests she invited had lives of their own and they had sacrificed their time for her. What kind of person does that to people.

Another option she had was to stay in the room forever and get old alone. No, she couldn’t do that. Not at all, but it was fun to imagine the problem was so easily rectified.

Ash looked inside to the back of Misty sitting on Daisy’s bed. She didn’t have her wedding dress on anymore and was wearing something more causal. It was a nice looking dress that portrayed flowers of different kinds. Her bare shoulders crutched as she beat herself up with worrying.

“Knock knock,” Ash jokingly said as he knocked.

She had heard something. She turned around and unexpectedly caught sight of Ash just outside her window. At first she didn’t believe her eyes. He wouldn’t be out there. Why would he be out there? Why would anyone be out there? Then again, Ash has always been the type to pull whatever needed to be done to accomplish something. But then, what did he want? Misty knew exactly why he was there.

Still caught up in her world, Misty wasn’t ready to let anybody else in. She turned back around to face the door opposite of Ash.

When she ran off from the altar, she knew she was going to be followed. Instead of going to her room, she had decided to go to Daisy’s instead knowing fully that they’d expect her there. Out of the whole gym, only Daisy’s room had a sliding lock which Daisy herself put up after her sisters would not leave her wardrobe alone.

Of course Ash knew it wasn’t going to be easy to try to talk to her after something like that. He never did thought she was going to let out the welcome rug for him. But then, why did he even climb up there?

Ash remembered the Man as he asked Misty the question. He remembered how it was closing his eyes dreading the next two words that came out of Misty’s mouth. He remembered knowing as if the world was ending and he wasn’t happy. She was close by, but it was as if she was being rocketed into space. That’s why he’s up there. That’s why he couldn’t go away again knowing he’d lose her.

“Come on, Misty, please open up,” Ash asked sincerely and Misty knew that.

She pretended she didn’t care, but inside she had wanted to invite him. Why she didn’t just open the window and started talking to him, she didn’t know. It might have been the fact that she wasn’t ready to, or could step out of Dorien just like that. What would that make her?

“I just want to talk to you, Misty.”

Again she ignored him.

The only thing that would work is if he did something drastic. Then it came to him. This has to work. She wouldn’t leave anyone out here like that.

Ash disappeared and Misty was both relieved and disappointed that he had gone away. At least that left her some time to think.

About two minutes later, Misty heard a thump outside. What was that? She thought the worse had happened. She ran to her window and pressed her face on the glass to see what had happened. “What happened,” she said worriedly. “Could he have...” she couldn’t even finish that sentence.

Misty opened the window and prowled her head to her side to see what had happened. She feared the worst. Then, from the curve of the dome gym, a hand made an appearance from the side. She was relieved beyond compare that he had not done something so stupid.

“What do you think you’re doing?” she asked angrily to see her friend alive and in one piece.

Ash waited to get there before he answered. Sitting down on the curved dome by Daisy’s window, he planted his feet on the rain gutters and kept his hands on the curve. “Well, I had to do something; you wouldn’t even talk to me.”

“Ash, has anyone ever told you to get a clue? Don’t you get the hint when a woman doesn’t want to talk to you? And what was that anyways?”

Ash looked at her; she looked angry. She was angry with him so many times before it was now like her second nature. To him, it just meant that she cared about him.

“That,” Ash pointed out, “that was the ladder that I climbed up here.”

Misty realized what he was trying to do. He was trying to play chess. The point of chess is to capture the king. The point of the game is to get the king on check without any safe place to move. Ash had done that. Misty and her sisters kept their windows close all the time and it was doubtful that one of them was open now.

“Of all the underhanded, mischievous things you’ve ever done, Ash, this has to be the worst. Forcing yourself into a woman’s room. Huh, don’t think I’ll let you in after that stunt.”

Ash wasn’t sure whether Misty was joking around or if she really meant it. He knew it was risky from the start, but he had known she would. Now, he was more than uncertain.

“So, you’re actually going to leave me here. I have no way down.”

“Just let out your...,” Misty looked at his belt and noticed he pokemon weren’t with him. “Ash, where are your pokemon?”

“They’re safe,” Ash answered. “We had a little fight and now, they don’t trust me.”

“Why not?”

“You don’t want to know. It has something to do with... with you know.” Misty did know. But why would they blame Ash for that, he didn’t do anything.

“How’s everybody taking things? How’s Dorien taking things.”

Ash stared away looking at nothing. It was a hefty predicament to say the least. It was mix of relief and at the same time a nagging of dread. It was as if he had killed someone. “He’s not taking it good, Misty.”

“I’m almost scared to ask what happened after I left.”

Ash knew full well what happened after she left. The throbbing from what happened still ache him. “Nothing happened. Dorien came up to me and asked what he’d done wrong and I’d told him nothing. We had a whole conversation.” Of course Ash was lying.

Misty felt a little strange that Ash treated what happened as if it was just another squabble. No, it wasn’t a squabble, it was a terrible disaster. She was contemplating how horrendous it was with all the audience and the guests that came from far away just to be there. She hadn’t turned back when she ran, but she could tell it was awful; like a sixth sense that crawled up to the back of her spine and ravaged her brain. There was no way to get rid of it, even now it scratched at her.

Misty looked up at Ash, finally getting a glimpse at him. He was starring off to nowhere as if he’d have been content with his life the way things were in that very moment. He didn’t even notice the blood dripping down his left brow.

“Ash!” gawked Misty as she noticed the bruises around Ash’s face, especially the terrible cut his brow. “What happened to you?”

Ash couldn’t say. He had only gotten what he deserved. “...nothing, I just fell a few times before I got up here.”

She couldn’t just let him bleed like that. She was his best friend and friends don’t let that happen to each other. Besides, it looked like it would get infected if he didn’t receive first-aid.

“Come in, Ash!” Misty said, panicked.

Misty grabbed Ash’s left hand and helped him in being careful he didn’t ‘fall again’.

“Ash, you’re so reckless, you’ve always been reckless! It’s as if all that matters is your objective when you after something! You don’t even care what happens to you. You have to be more careful, ya know! You’re not invincible, Ash! If you’re not careful, one of these days you’re going to get hurt really bad and make all of us sad! Don’t you ever think about us when you do stuff like this!? What do you think you’re pokemon think when you do that stuff? What do you think you’re mother would say if she ever saw something like that happen to you? What do you think I think of when you’re by yourself traveling the world all by yourself? I know how you act and it scares me just thinking how reckless you are! I worry about you, Ash!”

Ash was quiet; he did not dare try to speak out of line with her as emotional as she had ever been. He at least knew better than that. The only action Ash took was to nod his head. Misty saw this and made her angrier. She was annoyed with this, but not much; she half expected it. Nonetheless, whether it made her mad or not, she was still concerned Ash would not take her advice in consideration in during such times.

Ash knew she worried. He had known a long time ago that Misty had worried about him. How can Ash not know that she worries about him? They were supposed to be best friends; of course she worried about him.

It was as if the Sister’s were quadruplets. Without thinking, Misty guessed where Daisy had kept her first-aid kit–which was in the very bottom of her drawer–and readied Ash for her treatment. It was like playing doctor, a game that the two had never played with each other.

Misty sat Ash on the bed in the direction of the window to let the sunlight help find the wounds. She took a chair and set the first-aid kit on the bed beside Ash.

In a closer inspections–not like she believed a person can get the cuts and bruises that Ash had–Misty found that the cuts were more likely caused by a fist rather than the grass when Ash had ‘fell’. It didn’t match up, most of the bruises were in many parts of Ash’s face. There was no sign at all that what hit his face was flat, instead, it showed a curve marking.

Ash couldn’t help looking into Misty’s eyes as she applied the cream to help heal faster. Misty didn’t notice at all as she kept focus on the cut, bandaging each one making sure that everything would heal back to normal. Some of the cuts were harder to close than most. If she had the tools, she would have sewn the cuts close. The one on his left brow was the biggest cut of all. She had to use the last two big-sized bandages to get that one.

It stayed like that for a while. Ash was happy to be with Misty just starring at her without any dialogue. In their travels, on nights when insomnia hit the two; on opposite ends of the bottom bunk beds at the pokecenter that they stayed for the night, both had starred at each other aimlessly. They didn’t say anything during those times. They didn’t have to. Some nights, when Ash had the courage to acknowledge that Misty was still awake, he’d blow up his cheeks like a Quilfish and cross his eyes like Slowbro in hopes of making Misty laugh. And all of the time so far, he had succeeded.

Seeing Ash being silly had compelled Misty to do the same. This also made form of communication made, Ash laugh. No, it wasn’t that it was very funny, but because they could be silly with each other without anyone thinking of anything about it. This childish exchange of immaturity lasted, at times, a few hours. In the morning, they’d pay for staying up all night, but both of them considered it fun.

“How did this really happen, Ash?” She asked when she had finally caught Ash looking at her.

“How come you never believe me anymore? Never mind, don’t answer that.”

Misty gave Ash a frowned look.

“Of course, I knew you were smarter than that. I should of just told you that I got into a fight last night.” Another lie.

“You’re lying, this is recent. And you ask me why I don’t believe you. If it was last night, it would have been infected by now, or at least you’d have tried to bandage them yourself. Besides, you didn’t have cuts and bruises on you when we were in the...” she didn’t want to finish her sentence. “Anyways, this is recent. Who did this to you?”

He couldn’t tell Dorien had done it to him. It was worst enough he had a hand in Misty’s runaway, but he didn’t want her to know Dorien had beaten him up for it. And to think of it, it was his fault.

Ash only shook his head. Misty knew that Ash didn’t want to talk. And again, the room fell silent as Ash looked on towards Misty’s green eyes. Ash was transfixed on her eyes, fixated, and perhaps even obsessed. After a while, Misty herself fell in the same pit Ash had dug himself in and wasn’t able to climb out.

Out of nowhere, “Prepare for trouble!” Ash said threateningly.

Misty was caught off guard at first, but quickly caught on. “And make it double!” Misty, too played the part of a Team Rocket member as she roughened her voice.

“…to protect the world from devastation…” Ash continued.

“…to unite all people within our nation…” Misty progressed.

“…to denounce the evil of truth and love…”

“…to extend our reach to the stars above…

“Ash!”

“Misty!”

“…Team Rocket, blast off at the speed of light…’

“…surrender now, or prepare to fight!”

All together now, people of the world! “Meowth, Dat’s Right!”

This was followed by uncontrollable laughter. No it wasn’t funny, it was fun. It was nostalgic It was with, Ash.

“Ash, for the last five years were you happy?” asked Misty.

Was he happy? What Ash could say is that he was having fun. He traveled most of the time and had not really asked himself much whether he was happy or not. That’s very usual with people. They live their lives day by day and all to common we find ourselves stuck with our lives to where we can’t even imagine living any other way. In any case, Ash couldn’t afford doubting the choices he’s made. He sacrificed and risked so much that he couldn’t start backing down, now. But the question still stood, was he happy?

“Now that I think about it, Misty; I was. I won’t lie to you; I enjoyed my time in the Orre region. But, before I continue with my answer, I’d like to ask you whether or not you were happy. Were you happy?”

“I won’t lie to you to, Ash. The last three years, I’ve been happy. Happiness? I’ve been wondering for a while, now. I don’t seem to know exactly what the word means anymore. I remember when I was still traveling with you and Brock. I remember how fun it was when I got to see new places, towns, people, learn things I would have never learned without actually taking a first hand look for myself. Then, one day all that stopped. On lazy days where I just find myself looking out the window starring into someplace you could have been, or a place I could be visiting; I think about our travels together. How could I say I was happy just sitting there when I knew I could be happier being with you traveling? Or, maybe that was me just being greedy, wanting more than I already had. What’s the rest of your answer?”

“Well, I just want to continue telling you it would have been better with you there. Not just for convenience, too. Yes, I would have eaten more, but not only that. I’d have peace of mind knowing you were there to hold me up when I’d get beaten down. When the day has been, too long and I wanted to tell you what I was thinking. I guess I’m greedy, too, huh?”

Misty nodded her head. She had told him earlier that she had not wanted to talk to anyone, but there she was asking away as if nothing had happen just a few minutes before.

“Ash, you’re awful!” Misty blurted out knowing she’d be forgiven.

“I’m awful?” Ash repeated. “Why? Is it because I didn’t ask you to come with me?”

Misty frowned at the thought, but that wasn’t it.

“Actually, yes, but I didn’t say it because of that. I didn’t even think of that until you mentioned it.”

“Oh, did I open my mouth, too early?”

“No, that’s fine. I’m used to you doing that. I’m talking about me talking to you. Don’t you remember when you were outside on the roof? I told you hat I didn’t want to talk to anyone, but you were able to get in somehow and keep me talking to you.”

“You’ve taken care of my wounds and cuts; I can go back on the roof if you want me to. I’ll be happy if I can even be just outside your window.”

“No, that’s fine, you can stay inside. In fact, we can stay here forever. I can’t show my face outside anymore. I mean, it would be hard to explain why I ran away when I don’t really know why I ran away either.”

“Stay here forever, huh? I don’t know about that, but I can stay here for a long time; as long as it takes.”

And again it was quiet. That didn’t matter, though. Misty lay on Daisy’s bed and Ash sat on Daisy’s desk minding all her person items that was there. On the opposite side of where Ash was, there was a vanity mirror that Ash reflect Ash’s cut and bruises—not mention his lack of grooming. Now that he looked at the damage Dorien inflicted, it did look really bad. He was glad Misty knew how to treat cuts. She did a really good job bandaging.

On Daisy’s bed, Misty turned her head towards Ash who was trying to fix his hair. Misty giggle at, Ash combing his hair with his hands. That was how Ash would always groom his hair. Ash would always stay natural when it came to appearance. Misty was no different. No, that’s not true. It was because she didn’t have to chance to fix her appearance when she wanted to. Ash was always the type of person to keep moving. Onward, and onward some more to the next destination. The only time she could really concern herself with that was when they had stayed at a pokemon center. There, she would be able comb her hair for as long as she see fit. On the road, the only thing she’d do was comb her hair enough to keep it from streaking of in all directions like, Ash. Besides, there was really no reason for her to do so. It wasn’t like she was trying to attract Ash with her girlish flair. That wouldn’t work on, Ash. But still, Misty was a girl; of course she wanted to look pretty.

Ash noticed Misty giggle and turned his head towards her. He didn’t say anything, instead blew up his cheeks and crossed his eyes in an attempt to try to make Misty laugh; it worked.

Misty stuck out her tongue in a playful manner and crossed her eyes, too. It made Ash smile.

“Ash, you look tired. What did you do last night after you left?” Misty asked.

“I’m sorry for leaving like that. I just didn’t know whether or not I was doing the right thing. All night I walked back and forth towards Cerulean and toward Route 2 over and over again just pondering what to do. It wasn’t until two hours ago that I decided to come here. I’m sorry, Misty. It seems that that’s all I can offer you. You’re right, I am awful.”

“Ash, you look tired, you can lay down with me if you want.”

It was daring for Misty to ask. Did she mean anything by it? No, she’s not the type of girl to. She understands that Ash has been up all night and was more than tired from the beating he took.

Yes, Misty isn’t stupid. She had to know who had done it. She had to know the only person that would be able to do this to Ash was Dorien. No one else would be able to do so because Ash’s pokemon would never let their best friend get beaten. The only way for Ash to get the bruises was if he had allowed it. The question was, what did Ash do in response to Dorien.

“Are you sure?” Ash asked?

“You look tired. We’re best friends, Ash. Jut get some rest. But don’t go to sleep. You were beaten pretty bad; you might just slip into a coma.”

Ash took her offer. Misty scooted to her left and made room for Ash. It was a king-sized bed and it fit more than two people if it had to so it wasn’t as bad as it sounded.

Ash closed his eyes and was surprised that he was very much tired. Ash had almost fallen asleep if Misty hadn’t taken his left arm.

“What are you doing?” asked Ash.

Misty inspected Ash’s left fist. There was no sign of any gashes. Then she asked for his right arm. Again, there was no sign of any gashes. Misty was relieved that Ash had not fought back.

“Thank you, Ash. I really appreciate it.”

Ash nodded his head not knowing why she thanked him and closed his eyes.

When Ash opened his eyes again, Misty was on top of him looking upset. “Didn’t you listen to me, if you fall asleep, you might just slip into a coma, Ash!”

“I’m sorry, I’m just tired. I didn’t any sleep what so ever last night.”

“Ash, put your back to the bed head of the bed. That way you can rest and stay awake at the same time,” Misty ordered.

“Maybe you shouldn’t have mentioned it in the first place?” said Ash condescendingly.

“Well, I’m sorry for being concerned; maybe I should just let you rest outside on the roof. That way I know you don’t go to sleep!”

“Would you really just kick me out like that?”

“No, of course not; maybe if you deserve it,” Misty answered.

“Thank you, Mist. I remember that you always looked out for me.”

“You’re welcome!” said Misty exclaiming along the lines of her last few sentences.

It was quiet again as Ash only smiled at Misty. She tried to look away, but Ash was able to see a corner of her blush.

Knowing that Ash was tired, Misty knew she had to keep him awake.

“Ash, what do you think I should do, now? Honestly, I have no clue on what my next move is.”

“I know what I want you to do, Misty, but I doubt you’ll do it.”

“What is it you want me to do, Ash?”

“Never mind, about that; like I said, you won’t do it anyways.”

“Just tell me, Ash. Any advice you give me is a help at this point. Please, …I’m cornered. I don’t know what to do.”

Ash looked at her and he knew Misty was desperate. Maybe Misty was even desperate enough to actually do it. But what kind of person would Ash be if he were to ask her, to. He looked at her and decided to tell her as a joke. Ash laughed.

“Well, maybe you should just pack up all your stuff and follow me to the Orre Region. Funny, huh?”

Misty didn’t laugh at all. She looked at him as if she was seriously contemplating whether she should or not. Misty didn’t say anything and starred at, Ash studying the expression on his face. Misty thought to herself, does Ash mean it?

Ash spoke up again, “…but you wouldn’t do that, right? You’re not the type to just leave without telling anyone. You’re a better person than me and consider your friends and family first. I look at myself and compare myself to you. Me, who left everyone behind to follow my own selfish ambition, I’m sorry I even mentioned that.”

Misty finally spoke. “Ash, do you really mean that? Do you really want me to come with you?”

Ash’s heart started to bump. He couldn’t believe she even asked him. Was it his imagination that she even considered?

“Yes, I want you to come with me. I want to know that I don’t risk losing you. I want to know that you still care and worry about me. I want to know that …that …that you will be there.”

A tear slid down of Misty cheek. “Of all the times, Ash. That’s great timing, Ash. Five years from the time you should have, but now is the time you do it. Ask me again, Ash. I want you to say it so I can answer, NO!”

“Misty…”

“I said ask me, Ash.” More tears slid down. “I at least want the pleasure to tell you, no! Ask me again!”

What was the point of asking when Ash already knew that she would answer, no? But, she deserved to get what ever she asked from him.

“Misty, …would you like to follow me to the Orre Region?”

“………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………” Finally, her vengeance. “…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………” Finally, she gets to reject Ash; just like Ash had done to her five years ago when he hung up the phone. “………..Yes, I would.”

“Look, I have to ask you a question, Misty.”

“Ash, don’t ask a question you already know the answer to.”

Ash thought about it. He had known the answer. That wasn’t enough. He needed to hear it. He needed to know it for sure. He needed her to say it.

“The problem is, I already know the answer, but I want you to answer. Please, I want you to say you don’t hate me anymore.”

She looked at the expression of his face. The bandages covered most of his face and distorted his plea. Ash grabbed her hands.

If she were to tell him she didn’t hate him anymore, then she’d have made her choice. She looked pass the bandage and bruises to his eyes. They were sincere and desperate at the same time. He was like a dog looking up to his master searching for love and attention he craved. Even if she wanted to lie, her being wouldn’t permit her to.

“No, Ash... I don’t hate you anymore. Really, I never hated you. How can I ever hate a person who gave me so much and I care so much for.” Misty finally let go and held on to Ash intending to never let go again.

He was happy. From the time he had heard the news of Misty’s marriage from Brock, in the back of Ash’s soul he had been tormented by something unknown to him. It had started out as an itch he couldn’t scratch to a disease that ate at him inside. At every thought of Misty and Dorien had thrust another arrow to his heart gently piercing his being. He was helpless and alone as everyone had condoned Misty and Dorien’s relationship leaving him outside looking in. With each will power Ash had, he purged the thought of stopping the whole thing and having Misty for his own. One of his biggest concerns was whether Misty had wanted him, also. Now, as he embraced Misty, Ash was complete. His soul is now at rest. He is happy.

Despite the strong force that told her she was hurting another person, Misty couldn’t help but hold on to the one she had waited so long for. When she had met Dorien, her waiting was suspended by an ersatz puzzle piece. Her waiting was pushed back to the to the bottom of her soul. Yet, deep inside her, it beat. It beat as strong as her heart would every moment of the day she lived without seeing her best friend. When she had finally seen him again, her heart beat as it hadn’t done ever before. As she looked on to her best friend from the crowd, her consciousness had not noticed, but her heart raged. Finally, Ash was back.

Setting and Location: It’s been a while now and everyone in the who stayed behind in the area, where the wedding was to be held, were all busy trying to keep the crowd contained. After an audience had thrown the first bottle of soda, a whole riot has erupted from it. Officer Jenny, who was one of the invited guests, called for back up as the fists flew and the wedding turned into a giant shenanigan. Ash’s pokemon had helped to keep the crowd from beating each other into pulps til the authorities came and Ash’s pokemon were put to the sides as back up.

Brock, Tracey, Max, Gary and the others kept away from the fight, but weren’t scared to lay a fist onto someone if they had even touched a hair on any of the ladies. Case in point to the rowdy fellow who had bumped into Lily and May and knocked them over each other. Thinking the rowdy person had intentions of harming them, Tracy and Brock quickly shoved the person and tended to the girls.

Jesse, James and Meowth somehow, as usually, made a daring escape without any harm to their being. Of course, being ex-Team Rocket members, the three had no problem punching out or scratching a few hot heads.

When it was all over with and everyone who had participated into the fight had been arrested, the gang took a well deserved rest as they took a drink of water to cool their nerves and sat on the couch in the gym living room. What an awful day it turned out to be.

“Hey, where’s Ash’s pokemon?” Asked Brock remembering they were surrounded by them just minutes ago before Officer Jenny’s forces came in.

“I don’t know, but I remember Golduck shielding us with his reflect attack,” remembered Max.

“Like, weren’t they helping Officer Jenny?” Asked Daisy.

“Yeah, but they stopped after they were told to hold their fire,” answered Violet.

“Where did they go after that?” asked Tracey.

“I just thought they were still helping Officer Jenny,” said May recalling where she had seen them last.

“Oh no, what if they’re hurt?” said Lily realizing the worst.

“No way, Ash’s pokemon are too well trained to be hurt like that,” said Max with the same confidence he had when he was a kid hanging to the coattail of Ash’s victories as he often showed his hero worship.

“I have to agree with Max,” pointed Prof. Oak, “it’s not very likely that Snorlax, Pikachu, Crobat, Pidgeot, Squirtle and Golduck would not be able to handle something like that. With their power the way it is, it’s not very likely at all.”

“Yeah, but still, where are they?” Asked May.

The three looked at each other with smirks on their faces. The three wanted to have fun with them. Maybe it was just their nature to play devil’s advocate, or if they had just done that to get revenge on all the times they were blown away by Ash’s friends. They were blown away. Normally if someone is blown away, they are injured or worst. Not only were they blown away, but they were habitually blown away. You’d have to carry the most amount of animosity of all.

“Well, if you’re all concerned about Ash’s pokemon, don’t be,” said Jesse concocting a little payback. “While Officer Jenny and her squad had taken over of keeping the peace, we were able to finally fulfill our objectives.”

James had a questioning look on his face.

Jesse continued, “…that’s right. After Ash’s pokemon had been relieved of their duties, that’s when we struck.

“Come off it!” said May as if knowing full well capturing Ash’s pokemon was nearly close to impossible in Jesse and James’ case.

“You don’t believe we could do it? We’ll prove to you we can!”

“Never mind, forget about it, Jesse.” James decided to step in seeing what direction the whole conversation would have led to. To James’s surprise, Jesse had listened. Perhaps she knew herself what that would have led, also.

“It’s not just that Jesse,” continued May. “We all saw how you reacted to what happened to Ash when he was getting beat. Despite all your bravado in claiming to discern yourself from caring for Ash, you know as well as we do that you hold him in higher respects that you show.”

“Wow, little Missy, you sure really think a lot of your insight, huh?” said Jesse trying to be more mean than she really wanted to be. “You think you know me now, right? Well, you’re right about one thing. I do hold high regards for Ash and, now, would never think of trying to capture his pokemon, but young girl, don’t think I hold you up to the same pedestal.”

It sent a whole chain of electricity throughout May’s body. “You know what, I was trying to be nice and complement you on your rehabilitation and utter entrance to the human race, but I see now that a demented person will always be a demented person.” May took the stage as she stood up on the couch she sat on. As if she were announcing to the world, with the same enthusiasm of an auctioneer she rang her fist in the air and began to take out her frustration on Jesse. “Scientists of the world, I have made a new discovery. Finally, documentation of a live specimen in her natural environment, untouched by the world of man and existing on her own as creature of unbridled self arrogance. I give you, Jesse, the red-headed banshee!”

“That’s enough, May!” yelled Max in disbelieve of his sister’s rudeness. “That was just playing rude, May.”

“She started it! I was just trying to rationalize her insensitivity at a moment like this. You know, if it were someone else other than her, you’d have done the same thing, Max. But, instead you make up for her short comings.”

“Little girl, you don’t have to rationalize anything for me because I’m perfect the way I am. Just because you’re a whiny little girl who can’t take a little joke, it doesn’t mean you have to bite my head off.” Jesse wasn’t having fun anymore. This time she was defending herself despite knowing exactly what May was talking about. It’s hard for her know and for the longest time it has been hard for her to be told no. Maybe it was her or something in her past that kept her this way, but it wasn’t going to change at this moment in time.

Ever since James had met Jesse, his role was always to be her sidekick. Yes, true, James has had say on many of their ventures together, but when it came down to it, it was Jesse that had final say. James looked on to her now and knew he had to change. He knew his role as follower could no longer be a silent understudy. He was now her husband and like it or not it was his job not to be a friend to hold on to her delusion of the world being hers alone. No, if anything, the world would be theirs together. No more acting like he was a worm, lower than the dirt Jesse walked on. He had to be more. He had to stand up, he had to stand straight. What he must do now is look her at eye level and be treated not like a human being, but as her husband.

“Jesse, that’s enough!” James commanded.

“Not now, James. I have to make things clear with this little twerp.” Jesse didn’t notice it at the moment, but James was standing right beside her back not flinching as she accidentally stepped aback.

“No, Jessica, stop it now! Let her be, this has been a trying day for them and you’re just making things worst.”

Jesse had only heard James speak that way only a few times. In fact, she had not heard him act that way too much too few. “Fine, you’re lucky I’m feeling lenient today or you’d really hear about it.”

“Jesse, say that you’re sorry,” again James said commanding.

“What? Why do I have to apologize? And don’t try to tell me what to do, James! I’m not kid, I can make my own decisions.”

“Jesse, if you have any respect for me or for our partnership, then please, just say you’re sorry.”

What was Jesse to do? She did have respect for him and for what they’ve done together. Really, if she cared for anyone, it would be for James. She hasn’t been that happy all her life.

“I’m sorry, May. I was just joking. After knowing us so long, you’d think that understand that I can’t really tell you how much we really appreciate what you gave us.”

That was all that was needed to be said. May looked at her and nodded her head.

Meowth pulled on the pant leg of James’s pants. “Hey, Jimmy, that’s the way to tell her off. Finally!”

“Well, I try my best,” James whispered back.

After that, there was nothing spoken. Professor Oak, himself, had to admit that it was an awful situation. What a beautiful day it seemed that morning when he had opened his drapes to see the bright blue sky with Pidgeys and Sparrows fluttering their wings towards the heavens; at least it seemed.

Gary was considering how much a fool Ash really was for getting beat like that. This is the same Ash, he thought. It was the same Ash was reckless when it came to pokemon. Gary was jealous he wasn’t that way. He made jokes at Ash’s expense back when they had barely departed for their quest. Gary would have said things about how Ash would never catch up with him. He’d say if Ash had been at least half of what Gary was like, then Ash would have passed for a competent trainer. Gary was jealous. He was jealous not because he wasn’t as a much a talented trainer as Ash is now, but of Ash’s passion. Right now, Ash was with his passion. Maybe, somewhere inside of Gary, he too longed for the same passion Ash had. I wonder.

Mrs. Ketchum couldn’t say she was proud of what Ash had done in the beginning to start the whole think. What’s worst is that she couldn’t say that she was proud of what she herself had done, or it is much more fitting to say that she had not done. This would have all been avoided if she had stepped in at the right times and acted like a more responsible person. Mrs. Ketchum knew exactly why she decided not to interfere. She loved Misty as much as she loved Ash, and that’s why she let it alone. Was that the right choice? Was that something a good person would have done? To be honest with herself and to anyone else who would ask her, no. She acted with her own selfishness. Like mother, like son? She loved her son and Misty. That was her answer.

James wondered what Jesse was thinking of him at that moment. Then, he wondered what she was thinking about what he said about when he mentioned having respect for their union. Jesse was only his best friend, but also his wife. Had things been different, meaning he had never been force to marry Jesse for his right of inheritance, would he have been this happy with Jessebel? If Jesse hadn’t come after him that day, would Jesse be with someone else rather than him? If she was with someone else, would she have been happier? James remembered his father. James father was so different as him. Actually, both his parents are very much as different in personality as he was. Jesse reminded him of his parents and he smiled. It didn’t matter what could have happen or what might have happened. All that mattered was what was happening, now. He looked at Jesse and smiled.

Jesse didn’t see James smile at her until she had turned her head to catch a half glance. She believed that it was her imagination, but she had wished if it was her imagination that it was real. A smile like that would validate everything they had done with each other. From the time they had first met to the times when they had believed that such times weren’t possibly happening to them. On James’ lap was Meowth. What a critter, she thought of the cat. Those are the two of her best friends. She couldn’t think of a life without them. Maybe, just maybe, she thought of the two, maybe I should just be a lot nicer to them. She wouldn’t be Jesse if she acted any other way. She decided to be herself. She knew that they would always forgive her.

Meowth yawned and was feeling sleepy. He knew he was sleepy. Not from doing anything manual. No, rather, he’d become a fat-cat minus the fat part. In other words, his life as a millionaire has made him lazy. Back home, living James and Jesse meant quiet; at least in the sense of no explosions or anymore running and such. Instead, it’s been the habitual duties of a cat in the middle of the day when there’s nothing going on that he sleep. He’d then get up for a few minutes to get something to eat, but then just fall back asleep when he’d realize that there was still nothing to do until James had gotten back home from being the heir of his inheritance. James parents would also be his entertainment. As they had always wanted a pet that could actually respond other than their names. To James’s parents, Meowth was an amazement. One of a kind, you could say. To them, Meowth was part of the family. The kind of uncle that you liked so much because he was so fun and charming. Perhaps, Meowth should be put on a diet and exercise plan.

Violet wondered as much as the other had about what was really going on. What was the next step? Were they suppose to wait for Misty to come down from her room and tell them that everything was fine or was she suppose to go up there and comfort her baby sister?

Lily wondered the same. She also considered the damages the gym would have to pay for. No physical damage, but of reputation. It’s more than most likely that the newspaper will be all over the hysteria. Lily could imagine the head lines now “Big Battle at the Cerulean Gym” or “Run away Bride”.

Tracey wondered whether or not he should have stepped in and stop the fight. No, it wasn’t a fight at all. If it were a fight, it would have meant that Ash had tried to fight back. Ash would have tried to at least block a punch, but instead he let himself get beat. If that was me, Tracey thought, would I be able to take such punishment from what I deserve? Not knowing it, Tracey had confirmed in himself that it was a well deserved beating. Yet, it was hard for Tracey to call Ash a friend after something like that. Ash would understand. He should understand.

There have been many times in Max’s life when at one point or another, someone had asked him of his heroes. In the front of all his heroes is his father and mother. Coming in second place would have to be his sister who teaches him everyday to be a good person. That may be the reason why he’s always so respectful when they’re around other people. There are also many more people he respected like: Brock, Professor Oak, Professor Elm, etc. Ash was also his hero. Someone he can call a true friend and someone he could draw inspiration from. Not only did Ash show valor inside the battle arena, but everywhere he happened to be at. What was Max to think now. Max knew exactly what to think of Ash. If you want to know, just think about how badly he was beaten, then tell Ash to his face that he’s a coward.

Daisy felt foolish. What was she suppose to think of Ash when she had first lain eyes on him. He was scrawny, short, and ten years olds. Compared to the Ash she knew of today. This Ash was taller, framed physic, and dare she think of it; handsome. She wasn’t only feeling foolish, but also embarrassed for the way she clung on to him when she knew that all Ash say in her was Misty. She was embarrassed for trying to keep him for herself. The afternoon when she took Ash to the outskirts of Cerulean to take a look at the setting sun; of course Ash had to know she was up to something, right? Or later that evening when she pretended to be sleepy and began to collapse on Ash’s arms. Even worst when she thought she could keep Ash from standing when the man had asked for any objections. I’m stupid!

Ash is an only child, Brock thought to himself. He remembered the first day he had first met, Ash. He was still very green at that time and seemed as if he didn’t know a thing about training pokemon. He remembered Misty there, too cheering him on from a distance, though it didn’t look like she cheered. In fact, what she was really doing was criticizing his strategy as she looked on. Of course he didn’t win, but the second time; that was a different story. In such a short his ability, or at least his pokemon’s ability has increased to where Ash could have pretended he had been training for at least five months. He was amazed? No, that’s not what he was so amazed with. He was amazed that Ash had decided not to take the badge after all.

When Brock started traveling with the young trainer, he began to see full extent of Ash’s ability and to tell the truth, his abilities didn’t reach far at all. Being the brotherly type, Brock began not only treating Ash as a friend, but as a member of his family. Perhaps, it was the years of being a big brother or maybe it was because it was just natural for him to do so. Whatever the reason, Brock had the took it upon himself become and adopted brother to both Misty and Ash. Just with his real brothers and sisters, he taught them to be good persons. Did I do something wrong? Is this right? What’s so wrong with what they’re doing? For one thing, it seemed the two are so perfect for each other and they have such a long history. It was strange thinking about his brother and sister that way. Ash has nothing more to learn from me of life.

May wanted to scream at him to the top of her lungs. Yet, she couldn’t. She felt as if he betrayed her. She remembered what he said to her. He told her that stupid line that she believed so much in because it made her feel better. That same lie Ash told to himself, but it was much more apparent than how he tried to hide it. How dare Ash say he cared for May the same way as he did for Misty? How dare he treat May as if she wasn’t as important? How dare Ash kiss Misty passionately and not do the same with May. May has gone through the same hazards with Ash as Misty did. If it were the other way around and May had met with Ash first instead of Misty, would it be the same now? Betrayed, lied to, fooled, treated as a less, and made to wait along with everyone else. She wasn’t to be made waited, she was suppose to be the person Misty is to Ash. He lied to me.

“He lied to me!” Yelled May out of nowhere and startling everyone around the room.

“May, are you okay?” asked Max as he stood by her side.

“No, he lied to me and I’m angry at him!”

“Who are angry at, May?” Asked Max.

“I’m angry at, Ash because he lied to me. He told me he loved my as much as he loved Misty and he lied.”

“That’s not true, May,” Mrs. Ketchum said, “Ash loves everyone here the same as he loves Misty.

“If that’s true, then why is Ash with Misty, now?”

“How do you even know that Ash is with Misty?” asked Max.

“He wouldn’t be with anyone else, right now!” answered May with authority. “I’m going to find him.”

May disappeared in the hallway and ascended upstairs.

“Do you think that we should follow her?” asked Tracey.

“No.” answered Max. “If there was anything that Ash taught May; it was determination. She’ll go up there, find Ash and fight for what she wants.”

“I agree,” said Brock, “May did learn that from, Ash. I remember how May was like when she first started becoming a pokemon trainer. I remember how she took Ash’s actions as a guide. After a while, there were similarities between Ash and May. They would have become the perfect couple, each complementing each other with their similar style of training. As for me, I prefer Ash take May. That way, he wouldn’t be stealing. If May really wants what she wants, she’ll have to fight hard for it.”

“Yeah, May is going to have to fight,” agreed Tracey. “I wonder if May isn’t the only one fight for, Ash? It would be a lot easier if she was the only one. If you know what I mean.”

“It won’t be a one-sided fight,” answered Brock.

*****

Location and setting: Dorien caught up with May as she had passed him when she had gone to Misty’s room. Not seeing Ash there with Dorien, May decided to look all over. The way Ash ran off, May knew Ash found a way to find Misty and be with her.

--Inside of Daisy’s room.

Ash forced himself and Misty to let go. It was bliss, but he knew they weren’t going to have what they want without any confrontation. But, what was the best way to go?

“Misty, I’m not going to ask you whether you trust me or not. I’m just going to say it.” Ash had his times when he played the hero. He would be courageous, strong, firm, militant and confident never twitching for a stance he believed in. It was one of those times. “Misty, I want you to come with me.”

Misty starred at his light brown eyes and knew he was serious. She admired that part of him and found it a flagship of his charm, he looks so sure of life at this moment. It is as if he were one of the characters in Misty’s romance novels. Just like the strong willed Captain Nathaniel. This is what she wanted all along.

“Yes... yes, Ash. I want to go with you.” She answered without doubt and hesitation. She knew it was right for herself.

“Another adventure?” asked Ash.

“Another wonderful adventure.”

They were in a hurry as Misty rushed into Daisy’s closet and clawed her way through clothing in hopes of finding something that fitted a long journey. From experience, Misty knew exactly what she needed. Long pants? No, she needed to be loose and unconstraint. Jacket? Of course, it may not be cold right now, but some of the places they might visit will be. Unmentionables? Don’t even have to mention those. Bathing suit? Hmmm, maybe a little fun in the sun.

Misty found it non-kosher taking her sister’s clothing. It wasn’t that it didn’t fit her, no not at all. Daisy and Misty over the years have reached the same height, more or less, so that really didn’t matter. If anything, it was more a question of hygiene. Daisy wasn’t the type to “mattress”, but it still felt weird. “When we get settled, maybe then I can buy my own clothing,” said Misty folding unmentionables into a backpack Daisy had lying around in her closet.

“That’s a good idea, mom always says wear clean underwear.”

It would be just the two of them again. Not truly alone with each other as the pokemon will also be there, but it would be the two of them on the trail of their dream. They dream that Ash had followed ever since he set himself towards when he was the age of ten years old. For Misty, it was an end to a long hiatus, a continuum to a dream that she had began to think of only as dream.

Was it just a dream for, Misty? As for Ash, looking from the inside it was a continued effort to succeed in that dream. Looking from the outside, Misty upheld Ash as flagship for all aspiring pokemon trainers. At times, Misty couldn’t believe how much Ash has improved; going as far as thinking of him as too far up. Then, knowing who Ash is and how she had always known him to be, she would smile and be happy that Ash was hers. It was the same Ash that she had known so long and she took comfort that Ash would be there, now, to keep her Misty.

*****

Well, there you are and here you go. Posted on February 6, 2006. Monday.

The next one will be the last one. Thanky.