Ash was glad to be back in his own clothes. He looked down at Pikachu, peacefully asleep.
"A couple of nasty bumps," the monster healer had said. "I gave him a sleeping potion. With rest, he should be well soon."
♦
"Come, I'll show you something."
"Sure," Ash replied, enticed by the smile on her face.
A few flights of steps later, Misty and Ash stood on the roof of one of the palace's towers. The scene was breathtaking. From that vantage point, they could see many of the buildings that were Pewter City, and further afield, trees, fields and some of the quarries that were the source of Pewter's renowned stonework. To the north, the view of Mt Moon eerily faded into the clouds, and in the west, the Indigo range could be made out on the horizon. Dark clouds weighed above them, yet the gloom they cast did not make the view any less spectacular. Ash wondered how much better it would be in full sunlight.
"We all used to come up here and play," she said. "Flint and his wife had so many kids, there were many birthdays—until father's hard-line oppression got too much for Flint to ignore. Them invitations only came for the most important events, like Brock's wedding."
Ash listened attentively. He looked into her eyes. They were beautiful, but far away. The breeze picked up, making here orange hair flutter.
"Gary would come too, sometimes. He used to tease Timmy, and the little ones too, until the time Brock beat him up for it. But they made up soon enough."
"You know, Misty, sometimes I worry that Gary'll turn out like your father."
"He's seen what's happenend to my father now. He's not dumb—he'll work it out."
She smiled at him, to reassure him. Or was that why? Her eyes sparkled for a moment, then turned back to the view.
"Ash, Misty, what are you up to?"
They turned around. Gary was coming through the exit onto the terrace.
"Speak of the sneasel," she said.
"Who, me?" said Gary
"I was just filling Ash in on our old times."
"Uh-huh. Hey Misty, Brock said I'd find you here. Excuse me, Ash, I need to talk to Misty."
Ash looked uncertain. "King Samuel told me I have to guard Misty all the time."
"Ash, we're on the roof of Pewter Palace. No-one's going to do anything to her here."
"It's OK, Ash," said Misty. "I brought you up here to show you the view. I don't mind catching up with Gary."
Ash walked off, giving them their privacy. He was sure Gary would waste no time in his seduction attempts, and Ash would cop it from the King if he failed. However, it would be worse if he aroused Gary's suspicion. His relationship with Gary was now at least cordial.
Needless to say, he was perfectly correct about Gary's intentions.
"How do you feel, now that you're free?"
"Am I free, Gary? I still have no idea what the future holds for me or for the peole of Cerulean."
"I just heard Walter's putting up a strong defense, but he can't last. And I wouldn't worry. As soon as Flint's in control, I reckon your people will be fine."
"I hope so."
Gary stepped a little closer.
"That doesn't answer my question. How do you feel?"
"Why do you care?"
"We've known each other since we were kids, Misty. I have to admit, maybe I've been a bit..."
"Irresponsible?"
"That's harsh. Perhaps immature is a better word. But now I've got to think about the future—my future."
"Your future. Not mine."
"What I'm saying is, why don't we make our future together?"
"Is that a... a proposal? I had no idea you were interested in me."
"I've never had the opportunity to tell you before. Think about it, Misty. Who else is there?"
"Well I... I haven't thought..."
"You could find some royal descendant somewhere, some guy you don't even know. Or you can have a guy like me."
"There's Timmy and Tommy."
"Tommy's too young, and I bet you anything Timmy's interested in Rose."
"What!?"
"Did you notice when we went to Rose's, she was in a dressing gown?"
"So? It was late. She would've been in bed."
"Did you also notice Timmy sitting on the other side of the bed getting dressed."
Misty stood silent for a moment. "Figures you would notice something like that. Anyway, so what—I think Rose and Timmy would make a lovely couple."
"Maybe we'd make a good couple. Why don't you let me show you my feelings for you?"
Misty stood there unconvinced. Drops started falling from the clouds above. Gary took her hands in his, drew her close and brought his face towards hers. He touched her lips with his, then pressed them.
At first she tried to protest, but then something made her change her mind. They stayed like that until the rain started to pour.
"You gotta admit that felt good," he said.
Misty sighed.
"Hey guys!" called Ash, coming back. He had not seen them kiss. "We better get inside."
♦
Misty let Gary walk ahead. Ash did not like the smug look on Gary's face but refused to show any reaction. Misty tapped Ash's arm and let him down a corridor that led to the guestrooms.
"Seen my room?"
"Would it be any different to mine?" he replied.
She shrugged him and took him to her bedroom. It was spacious, with light timber panelling, a marble-tiled floor covered with a plush rug, a large bed and some other furniture. White curtains framed a window that was being pelted with raindrops.
"It's bigger than mine," he said. "Nice rug, too."
"Sit down if you like."
Ash sat on the bed. It felt very comfortble. After his recent doings, Ash realized how much he missed sleeping in a bed.
Misty sat down next to him.
"Ash, is it OK if I talk with you?"
"What about?"
"Just... personal things. I mean... I need someone impartial to talk to, someone I can trust, who doesn't have any ulterior motives. Around here, you're the only person I know."
Ash felt surpised, almost elated by this sudden revelation.
"I'll... try to help."
"I don't want you to think I'm using you. I've only known you for a couple of days. Yet I wouldn't be here if it weren't for you, and I was very impressed with everything you've managed to do."
Ash basked in the praise. Maybe Misty really liked him.
"What's worrying you?" he asked.
"I don't know what to do. Gary just proposed to me."
Ash felt like a graveler had fallen on him. Here he was, letting himself think that maybe against all hope this gorgeous girl in front of him might fall for him. Now, his deepest hope was shattered by none other than that jerk, Gary."
"What's wrong, Ash?"
"It's... uh..." He had to think of something fast. "I've seen how Gary treats girls in Pallet. I'd hate to think he'd be doing that to you."
"He says he's changed. He also reckons there isn't anyone else for me."
"And you believe him?"
"Ash, we both know you can't trust anything Gary says. But he's right in one thing: I need to consider my options."
Think Ash, think. What would Andy say?
"What are your options, Misty? And how do feel about them?"
"That depends on Flint. If he takes control of Cerulean, he could let me be queen, or choose someone else. The people would want me, and if Flint agrees, I won't be marrying Gary since he'll be ruling Pallet."
"And that would mean you wouldn't be marrying anyone unless they're descended from royalty."
Misty caught Ash's glance. He caught a glimpse of sadness. He refused to let himself hope that it had anything to do with him.
"But if Flint won't let me keep the throne..."
"You can marry who you like," he said, trying his hardest not to sound pleased at the prospect.
"In that case, if I marry Gary, I'll be a queen, and at least I'd have some power and influence to help my people."
"Are they your only options?"
She paused, and looked away.
"There is someone else, a commoner I met. I don't know how he feels about me, but I almost wish we could go and live together away from all this mess."
That's just great, thought Ash. So there's yet another suitor—I don't stand a chance.
"Anyway, if Gary's bothering you, why don't you tell him you need time to think it over."
"Thanks Ash, that's good advice."
There was a knock on the door.
"Yes!" she called.
"Princess, dinner is being served."
"Thank you!"
♦
On the way to dinner, Ash tried to look cheerful, but inside, he couldn't shake the conversation from his mind. Why did I have to get myself infatuated with a princess, he asked himself. Yet he couldn't deny his feelings.
Nor could he deny the praise she gave him, the warmth she radiated. But she likes some other guy, Gary likes her, and the whole situation is complicated beyond belief by politics.
At the dinner table, Misty asked of Timmy.
"My son is resting. The healer believes he'll be fine soon, thanks to you Misty."
"You're welcome, O King."
"Do you think you'll defeat Walter?" asked Gary.
"Our suprise attack was succesful, and we have the population on our side. It'll take some time because we're trying to prevent casualties."
"And who will be ruling when you depose my father?"
"I understand your concern, Misty, but tonight, you need to rest. So please relax and enjoy the food. There's plenty of time tomorrow for serious talk."
During dinner, Ash noticed Gary trying to ingratiate himself with Misty, pouring her drink and passing her food (when in fact the waiter was more than capable).
When people had finished eating, Flint asked, "The food meets everyone's satisfaction?"
There was a general polite assent.
"I don't usually eat like a king, your highness," said Ash. "Thank you very much."
A that point, Gary excused himself. "I have something to attend to," he said, and walked out through a side door.
"You're welcome, Ash," said Flint. "You know, I've been to Pallet Town. Nothing beats your potatoes."
I grow them, your highness."
"Tell you what, Ash," said the king. "For doing such a great job on this mission, I'll send some business your way. How about you give the cook your address, and I'll get her to put in an order."
"Thank you, your highness." Ash looked very pleased.
"You can catch her if you go now, through that door and down to the end of the corridor."
Proceeding along the corridor, Ash saw Gary enter the room at the end and shutting the door behind him. Curious, Ash tiptoed to the closed door. It was not completely shut. All he had to do was move it an inch, and he could peek inside.
"I came to say thank you for the delicious dinner," he heard Gary say.
"I made your favourite," said a female voice. "So are you going to stand there and say thank you, or are you going to demonstrate your appreciation?"
He saw them come into view. A young, shapely woman around Gary's age with long silky black hair leant against a wall and pulled Gary close to her.
"Sally, this might be our last time," said Gary. "I'm going to try and get myself married."
She stared, disappointed.
"And why don't you marry me?"
"You know I can't. Stupid traditions."
She looked him up and down. She reached down to his hips and pulled him in tight. "Then let's make our last time a good one," she said before burrying her mouth in his face.
Ash was shocked. Gary proposes to Misty, then goes and cheats on her. He felt angry, he felt like barging in and exposing him for what he was.
Then again, it wouldn't pay to make Gary mad at him again. Gary looked at him murderously before—no point fooling around with his life, not when he had promised to protect Misty. Ash withdrew, deciding the best thing was to let Misty know when he got the chance.
♦
The next morning, a sevant brought Timmy breakfast. Shortly the healer came and checked his injury.
"You're doing well, your highness," she said as she examined him. Her fingers were cold but gentle. "I'll give you something for the pain."
She gave Timmy a bitter-tasting potion. He downed it quickly and followed it with a mouthful of oatmeal.
Just then, Flint and Brock came to see him.
"How is he?" Flint asked the healer.
"The healing root is working marvellously, but he needs rest."
He turned to Timmy. "I'm holding an audience with the princess this morning. I need to know how far our plans have progressed."
"Father... I... we rescued her and... b-brought her here. When I'm well enough, I'll escort her to Pallet."
"That's obvious," said the king, his eyebrows furrowing. "What I want from you is what I can't see with my own eyes."
"F-father... I... didn't... make any a-advances. I... I... Misty's like a sister to me—"
The king's eyes looked furious. "I sent you on a mission!"
"Please... father..."
"Address me as your king!"
"O k-king... I met her c-cousin R... R... Rose,. We couldn't... couldn't... help it. Father—I love her!"
Brock was taken aback. Flint looked as if we was about to explode. The healer stepped in.
"Your highness, my patient needs rest. Please leave."
"Woman, how dare you command your king!"
"With due respect, your highness ordered me to heal the prince. I am simply obeying your own command," she said with a bow, and pointed to the door.
Brock touched his father's arm and gestured towards the door.
"...O Prince," said the king from the doorway. "You will fulfill your mission, or you shall be expelled from the palace."
Timmy turned his head and squeezed his eyes shut.
"Doesn't my father love me?" he said aloud. The healer did not reply.
♦
Ash followed behind Gary and Misty into the royal chamber. It was only four days ago when he last stood here, yet it felt like so much longer. King Flint sat on the throne. Prince Brock stood next to him.
After a few quick formalities, Flint spoke.
"Princess Misty, I trust that you are pelased and grateful for your rescue from imprisonment. I wish to formally thank Brock, Gary, Timmy and Ash for their efforts and bravery that has led to a successful mission."
The king paused. All bowed in acknowledgement.
"O Princess, you must be concerned about the future and welfare of the people of Cerulean. For my kingdom to take on such an operation, you have to understand that we cannot afford to lose out. At the same time be assured that I will do everything in my power to ensure your people's welfare. You have my word."
Flint looked at Misty expectantly.
"Thank you, O King," she replied.
"I expect that your desire is to rule your people. I desire to have someone within my sphere of influence on the Cerulean throne. These two desires aren't incompatible. Something could be arranged."
"I... understand, O king."
"Prince Timmy wishes to speak to you. You may all visit him briefly. As soon as he's recovered, you'll continue your journey to Pallet as planned. Although we are winning, you O Princess are a symbol that wil tempt Cerulean forces to inflitrate our land.
"Yes, O king," she replied.
"That's all for now."
Ash, Misty and Gary left the royal chamber. An attendant went in after them.
"Kosaburo from Viridian wishes an audience," they heard the attendant say as they left to see Timmy.
Asking for directions once, Misty led them to the palace infirmary. She walked briskly with firm steps, as if she was determined about something.
They found Timmy asleep, basking in the morning sun that streamed through the windows. He was the only patient. Ash was about to ask if they should leave when Timmy stirred. He opened his eyes and looked at them.
"Hi guys." He sounded groggy.
"Hi Timmy," said Ash. "How do you feel."
"I won't be doing push-ups for a while."
Misty felt his forehead, then carefully probed the area around the wound. "You're very lucky. No fever or pus."
"Thanks to you," Timmy replied."No Timmy, I'm the one who should thank you for rescuing me. I feel bad about you getting hurt like that."
"I knew the risks. Hey, how did you get away from those guys?"
"You can thank Ash for that," said Misty. "He was amazing. Listen Timmy, can I speak to you alone?"
"Sure." Timmy looked at Ash and Gary. "Thanks for visiting guys. I"ll ask the healer if I can have dinner with you."
"Take care, Timmy," said Ash.
"See ya," said Gary, and he left with Ash.
"What's up?" asked Timmy.
"Your father—I think he wants us married."
"Uh... oh yeah... well... would... would you m-marry a guy like me?"
"Timmy, I didn't come here to hear you put yourself down. You're a wonderful friend and you've got a lot going for you. But I need to know something. The night I came to Rose's, did you go to bed with her?"
Timmy's face turned as red as a Pikachu's cheek spots.
"I see," said Misty. "And was she just a... a convenience for you to test your manhood, or do I take it you have feelings for each other?"
"Look... M-Misty... I... we... Oh!"
"Just nod or shake your head, O prince charming. Do you love Rose?"
Timmy nodded.
"And does Rose love you?
Timmy nodded.
"I see. That puts an end to your father's scheme then, doesn't it?"
"Wh-why? Can't w-we... work... something out?"
"No Timmy! I can think of many reasons why we can't!"
Timmy cringed at the sound of her voice.
"Father said... he'd expel me from the palace if I don't... m-marry you."
"Listen," she said, softening. "If Rose loves you, there's no way I'm going to hurt her by taking you away from her. Anyway, our marriage wouldn't work out. What sort of stability would that be for our kingdom."
Timmy breathed a sigh of relief. "That still leaves my father... And who's going to rule Cerulean."
"Yes, we'll have to think of something. For now, tell him... tell him we're still discussing it."
He nodded. She sat down on an adjacent bed.
"So tell me how it happened?" she asked.
Timmy flushed again. "We were k-k-kissing... and then we cuddled—"
"Guys!" she exclaimed. "Tell me how you fell in love."
"Oh. Thinking back now... I think the moment she opened the door and we saw each other, we... somehow connected. We spent the whole next day together. Oh Misty, she's so wonderful—it's like a fairy tale come true. I don't want to lose her, ever."
Misty looked wistful. "Just like..." she started, but shut up.
"What's up?" he asked.
"I'd rather not say. It'll ruin everything."
"You made me fess up."
She sighed deeply, looked up and shook her hair. After a pause, she looked at Timmy.
"Promise you'll keep it secret?"
"'Course," he replied.
"From the moment I first saw him, Ash never ceases to amaze me. Especially how he handles monsters. He needs to learn a few table manners, and he's reckless at times, but—he's so strong, and brave, and gorgeous, and—"
"Wow, and I though I was in love."
"In love? Who, me?" she squeaked, trying to look innocent.
"Face it, Misty, you're in deep. But you haven't said what he thinks of you."
She stared blankly at him.
"You don't know?" asked Timmy.
"I haven't asked him. Look, Timmy, my primary concern now is for my kingdom."
"Oh fine. It's not all right for me to marry you for the sake of a kingdom because I love someone else. But if you love someone else, why doesn't that come into it?"
At that moment, the healer came into the infirmary.
"What's all this jabber I hear? Lie down, Timmy and get some sleep. Ah, Princess, you did an excellent job looking after the prince, but he needs rest now."
"Thank you," replied Misty.
"Aw come on, I'm bored," said Timmy, "and I don't feel sleepy any more."
"That can be fixed," said the healer, heading for the sleeping potion amongst the jars on the shelf."
♦
The rest of that day was uneventful. The following day, Ash was given a guided tour of Pewter City by Tommy, Timmy's next youngest brother. Pidgeys from Cerulean brought good news. The palace was now under seige, and the population was loosened from Walter's grip. It wasn't over yet, but all going well, it was only a matter of time.
Flint had second thoughts about sending Misty south. However, a pidgey brought him a message about another attempt by Cerulean forces to sneak through. He therefore decided to stick to plan and remove her from her proximity to the conflict.
By evening, Timmy was able to join them for dinner. With the help of medication made from plants from the Viridian Forest, the wound healed rapidly. By morning, it was expected he would be able to travel. Pikachu was also on its feet, so preparations were made for departure the next day.
At dinner time, Timmy sat next to Ash. They talked about fighting skills, monsters, girls and food. Ash was glad to have his friend back. He would miss him when it was all over.
"Food's really nice here," said Ash.
"I went to Pallet once, you know," said Timmy. "The thing I remember was how nice the food tasted." He put a piece of potato in his mouth. After swallowing, he said, "It must've been the potatoes. Pewter potatoes are real bland."
"I grow them, among other things," Ash replied, "but you don't want to know our secret."
"Why? What is it?"
"Tauros dung."
