Here comes part III! I really want to know if the thing that I put in this that I wanted to be a shock was obvious from the start. I also think it might be a little far fetched, but what the hell. I don't want this to turn into fluffy angst so don't expect it to be all good. Do people like Tianna and Ryce? I don't really like added characters myself, but by God I thought they worked. And I like Ryce because I think people with big teeth are cute. My boyfriend has big teeth. Tianna is supposed to be kinda obnoxious. Anyway I'll shut up and get writing. Hold on y'all, it's gonna be a bumpy ride.
Part III-Leaving Sanity Behind
Oh God I'm tired, Ash sighed as he walked into the apartment. I can't wait to kick my shoes off and get to sleep. I hope James and Tianna get here soon with the clothes. And pikachu.
I can't believe you let pikachu go with them, Misty shook her head. I mean, it's James and Meowth and some ho bag we don't even know all that well.
Ash shrugged, I really didn't think there would be a problem. And pidgeot was small for the two of us, I didn't want to have pikachu fall off because there was a lack of space.
Good point, Misty conceded.
Ash walked up behind Misty and put his arms around her waist. It's been a long day and a long week and I am in severe need of a nap.
I can't believe Brock got over me so fast, Misty continued to pout.
Ash balked. Doesn't that make you happy? You don't have to be torn anymore! He then slid away from her. Unless you really have a thing for him. Then I could see why it would bother you.
Not at all! Misty insisted. I mean, all I can ever think of is you.
Oh yeah, Ash smiled, teasing her, I bet you were just trying to make Brock jealous and it backfired.
Misty sulked. You know that's not true.
I know, Ash smiled, kissing her neck. And where are they, anyway? Brock should have been here long before us. I know why everyone else isn't here before us, but Brock and that nurse chick were in a helicopter.
Misty blanched. Oh my god, she began to panic, they should have been here waaay before us! Do you think something happened?
Ash grimaced. I know way better than to say probably not. Damnit.
I should have gone with him, Misty stated protectively, slapping her forehead.
He didn't want you to go with him, Ash sharply pointed out, that's not your fault in any way.
Oh, but if he's dead after all this--
He won't be. He didn't live after the doctors practically declared him dead just so he could die now. They'll show up. Maybe it's a heavier helicopter.
Misty tried to visualize the helicopter, and it just appeared blurry. Maybe. He's not as much of an emergency now, ne?
Ash nodded, hoping that this was the case. If not, his plans to wage absolute war against Team Rocket would be even more intensely fueled.
--------------------------------------------
Brock continued to stare down his supposed adversary.
I suppose you're going to shoot me now? he asked flatly.
If I did that, his adversary smiled, I would be digging my own grave.
Brock choked, Team Rocket wants me alive?
the pilot growled, what are you doing? Shoot him!
his passenger growled back, pointing the gun at his head. I don't take orders from you anymore. I'm giving you directions. Land where I tell you to and I'll let you live.
Who else will fly the fucking chopper if you kill me? the pilot guffawed. I can call a bluff when I see one. You wouldn't shoot me and die.
Oh wouldn't I? the gun wielder teased, when in fact, the rebels made sure I was very adept at piloting a helicopter before sending me on this mission. It's very dear to my heart, you see, and I won't let you screw it up for me.
Brock continued staring. How is this possible?
the wielder rhetorically asked, me? How am I possible? It's a long story twerp.
I have about fifty pounds on you, Brock retorted, I'm not a twerp.
she bit her lip, I'll tell you how I managed to live after we land. But I might just kill this guy anyway. No Team Rocket members are supposed to know that I didn't really commit suicide.
Do you have any idea how distraught James is? Brock boggled.
Hasn't Meowth told him? Jessie cocked her head quizzically.
Uh, no, Brock replied.
Ryce whispered in his ear. She was shaking in fear. What's going on?
This woman, Brock explained casually, is named Jessie. She's supposed to be dead. A man who loves her dearly is somewhere over the ocean right now returning to the place we're hiding, still painfully lamenting over her death. Apparently she's not going to kill us.
Kill you? she laughed, why would I kill you when Meowth and I were the ones who saved your lives when you fell off that cliff?
Brock's eyes widened impossibly. You could almost see them. Why didn't you save me?
We tried, Jessie frowned, the cops didn't get there as soon as we'd hoped when we called them. We only went on the mission with the loyal Team Rocket members to save your asses. They still thought Meowth was an active member and were using him to relay messages. I just blended in with all those fools. Not all Team Rocket members know each other, you know. I went by the alias of Thelma. I escaped because the cops knew to let me go because I was the informant. I described myself to them. It was the same reason Meowth escaped. Now leave me alone. I need to concentrate. We're going to the hidden rebel base.
I need medical care! Brock shouted.
It's only a quick stopover, Jessie assured, nursey here can take care of you until then, can't she?
Ryce stood agape.
Jessie smiled, then started rattling off orders to the pilot, who resisted, but followed.
The stopover was on the island and not on the mainland, so they had traversed the majority of the stretch that they would have gone anyway getting home. They had to land the helicopter early in the middle of a forest so it wouldn't be connected with the rebel base.
Brock began to sweat, and he moaned in desperation as he realized that he would have to somehow travel from the helicopter to the rebel base.
I can't walk! he shouted, how the hell do you expect me to get from here to--to--wherever the hell we're going? I can't do it! Are you going to leave me? You might as well have dropped me off at home for crying out--
Jessie shouted back, you're going to be fine! The rebels captured two pokemon to help you especially. So chill out.
Jessie held two pokeballs, one in each hand, and released the pokemon inside.
they said in unison.
Oh God, Brock said in a distressed manner, I'm going to be taken care of by friggin' chanseys.
Oh cheer up, Jessie suggested, there is a path.
I'll make sure you're all right, Ryce said meekly, not feeling like her usual self. In fact, she was quite dazed from what had been going on.
Brock delicately said, take my belt of pokemon off my waist, would you?
Ryce was puzzled, but did as she was requested.
Take care of them for me, he smiled, looking into the forest ahead.
Ryce put them in her pockets, but was still confused. You're going to be fine, why should I take care of your pokemon?
Just until I'm well, he smiled weakly, just for now.
Ryce looked to the ground and nodded.
Brock sighed, a very long sigh. He really didn't have a choice as to where he was headed when the chanseys hoisted up his stretcher and began the trek to whatever stupid place he was being taken to. They were delicate, however. He thought they'd done a better job than the people that carried him along his journey of death.
Why oh why couldn't you have just taken me home, Brock gritted his teeth. Why the hell do I have to come here with you?
Jessie bit her lip. I have to get the stuff I'm going to use. I have to get to the radio tower before Giovanni gets a hold of two of the rebels.
Brock asked dejectedly.
Because they saved your life by allowing that bomb to be found, she elaborated, I have to take them away. That's why I have a skarmory now. It can carry the three of us. But with the helicopter, it'll be even faster.
Brock tilted his head back and noticed that Jessie was holding the pilot at gunpoint. He was walking in front of her with his hands behind his head.
Giovanni will kill you all, he spat.
That's what you think, Jessie smirked, and kicked her hostage in the ass. Keep moving ass wart.
Ass wart, Brock shook his head. That's a new one. I would have just called him a pubic lice or a dumbass, but you're creative.
No sarcasm now twerp, Jessie said, you're in no condition to piss me off.
You know, you wouldn't be calling me a twerp if I was standing right next to you, Brock warned. But I guess I have to let you get away with it since I'm an invalid and you have a gun.
I bet I could kick her ass one on one, Ryce thought, upset by the gun and what was going on. She knew she should have expected as much, but wasn't prepared for danger like she thought she would be.
Brock closed his eyes, wondering if they could see him since he couldn't see them. He opened them quickly when his thoughts drifted to Misty.
Why do I love her? Brock asked himself, begining to shake. I need to stop! We're not going to get together!
Ryce startled, are you okay? You're shaking!
Brock escaped his upsetting thoughts, I'm fine, I'm fine. Don't worry about me.
Ryce nodded in acknowledgement. I'll take care of you, Brock.
Brock really didn't know how to respond to this. he asked, a while later.
Ryce closed her eyes as she walked. It was such a straight, long and tedious walk that it wasn't hazardous. I like you. You're cute, and you're funny.
Brock blinked, thanks, I like you too.
Brock shook his head from the light shock he had received. He barely even knew Ryce. He didn't want to lead her on, though. His heart wouldn't tear away from Misty, as much as he wished it would.
Brock looked straight up toward the canopy.
How many damn forests are there on this island? he asked crankily, blinking each time the sun found an open spot in the foliage from which to shine into his eyes from. The ground was not flat, he could tell by how much jostling his companions did as they walked, but he felt as if he was gliding on air. Those chanseys really knew what they were doing. He was almost lulled asleep by the smooth travel.
an exceedingly manly voice demanded.
That's a good one, Brock snorted. You forest people have learned a lot since I last came through here. Why, last time y'all could barely say stop, and now you're all the way to halt. Wow, I bet that in a few years you'll--
Shut up! Jessie implored, her voice cracking. She dropped her gun to the ground, and her captive dashed off toward the voice.
Put your hands up! the voice ordered again. And keep them there.
Brock shouted, I've got a cast, and as for my other hand, I just don't feel like it.
The man who had ordered them to put their hands up walked up to Brock and put his gun in his face. Put your able arm up.
Brock weakly put the lower part of his arm up, resting his elbow on the stretcher. The man stalked back off to wherever he came from after picking up Jessie's gun.
Why'd you put your gun down? Brock whispered, you should have just shot him before he had a chance to shoot you.
But Jessie didn't respond. She had tears in her eyes, and a throng of footsteps came the way of the travelers. Brock tried to sit up, and managed a better view of the horizon. Ryce held his back up when she saw what he was trying to do, but remained silent.
Brock gasped. Not because about fifteen team rocket members were walking their way, each armed with a nasty looking gun, but because the rebel base was only a few feet in front of them. The front was blasted open, and it was unreal how many cadavers were strewn about the floor. Some sort of bomb opened the place like a can of sardines, and then the rebels were mowed down with the loyal Rocket members' guns. Their guns were incredibly powerful, as some had blown the heads clean off of the rebels. The floor was drenched in the mixed blood of too many, and the silence which encompassed the foul-smelling room was ominous enough to make Ryce shudder. The hair of one dead woman blew in the hot breeze still, almost mocking the rest of her which was undeniably lifeless. They had put up a fight, but were taken by surprise, and their demise had come quickly.
Are they all gone? Jessie looked up at the leader of the brigade which had come for them. She was despondent, not even caring that those that she asked this question to would probably kill her just as soon.
All of them, the group's leader ratified. That's what happens to people who plot against Team Rocket.
Jessie lowered her head, her arms still up in the air. She was definitely in denial.
Brock decided to put his arm down as it was growing tired. He was sweating, and his heart felt as if is was about to push out of his chest it was beating so hard.
There was a gunshot shortly afterward, and Brock jumped. He didn't know that putting his hand down would be taken so seriously. He quickly raised it again, only to find that it was missing.
He screamed, looking at the stump that was once his hand, flailing in the air. It was a jagged wound and blood streamed out of it, black blood that was coming out too quickly to thin.
Ryce screamed, and grabbed his wrist with her own two hands, applying pressure to the wound. Her hands became wholly red and blood dripped off of her elbows, and she just began to apply more pressure.
Brock's temples began pounding, and the pain in his hand was so severe that he was too shocked to even pay attention to it. Adrenaline diverted his nerves away from the wound, and the sky above him became totally white as Ryce continued to scream, unable to stop the bleeding. The whiteness was begining to cease, and black was closing in on his mind.
The last conversation Brock heard before passing out was good news, but was wasted on him, as he didn't remember it when he woke.
Should we kill them now? one Team Rocket member asked the leader.
he said strongly, Giovanni wants them alive. They'll prove useful. Pile them into the van. They're coming with us.
Brock was handled roughly--dangerously roughly, but was unconscious and didn't realize it. Ryce continued to weep and hold his nonexistent hand as she was thrown in along side him.
I can get in myself, Jessie growled, and walked in the back, but was kicked down until she hit the floor.
That's not the point, the man who kicked her sniggered, then followed them in.
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You guys deliberately allowed that bomb to be discovered, Giovanni snapped at two of his minions who stood before his desk, sheepish as puppies who were just caught digging in the trash.
the male one denied, we didn't know that little kid would crawl under the table!
They're expensive bombs, Giovanni snarled, and you were too big of a pussy to get the job done! You could have hidden it under a food cart!
the female counterpart defended, we thought it would arouse more suspicion to fumble around somewhere we weren't supposed to be.
You could have broken in and done it during the night! Giovanni raged.
They went home for the night! The female raged back.
Giovanni screamed at the top of his lungs, there was a way to get the job done, and you guys didn't do it. Don't expect me to take this lightly.
the female shook, more daring than she had been before, we all make mistakes! What has gotten into you!
Giovanni walked over to her from behind his desk, and got into her face.
What has gotten into me, he said softly, then snapped his hand up and grabbed her neck, is none of your business.
The male was about to fight Giovanni off when one of his servants knocked on the door.
Who is it? Giovanni asked, taking his grip off of the slender neck it beheld.
Lancaster, sir, the guy announced. We have them.
Giovanni suddenly winced, but then his demeanor became better than ever. he announced, opening the door. Dispose of the two in my office, he grinned, closing the door behind him.
The male went over and tried to force open the door, but it was shut tight. He tried to ram into it and break it, but it didn't budge. Even when he used a chair. He walked back over to his partner.
The partners held onto each other as pipes emerged from the corners of the walls, dropping some form of salts onto the ground.
Pick them up! the male ordered, scrounging for them.
The girl went to do the same, but didn't get the chance before a liquid splashed on top of them.
Stamp them out, or something! the male screamed, and ran towards the female. But though they were able to destroy the smoke coming from these, smoke without aid began to pour from the pipes in the roof, so quickly that the roof was already clouded in smoke before the male could give out orders.
Clog them! he ordered, finding things around the room, and standing on a chair to reach the pipes.
Cassidy began to work furiously to try and clog the pipes, but they were all over the roof, and she couldn't stick her head in the smoke.
she began in a detached manner, it's strange what that asshole adds to his office as soon as he returns to us and takes over the building.
Butch nodded, and began to sob. I wish he never came back. Why did we want him so badly?
I don't know, Cassidy shouted, as the room began to fill to where she could hardly avoid the gas. But just come and hold me.
Butch walked over to the door and tried to force it open a few times first, but it was steel and didn't budge. There were no windows to speak of. He looked to Cassidy.
Hold me, she requested again.
Butch nodded and gathered Cassidy into his arms. I've failed you.
No you haven't, she whispered, you've always been there for me.
Jessie was supposed to save us! he shouted angrily, then looked sourly into Cassidy's eyes. When the gas comes to where you have to breath it, take deep breaths. Hyperventilate. Fighting it will only cause you more pain.
Cassidy's eyes widened, as she was obviously disturbed, what if Jessie comes before?
She was supposed to be here hours ago, Butch sighed. We'd only have about four more minutes if we fought.
Cassidy was wild eyed as she realized that death was upon her, and she dropped to the floor with Butch.
It's coming closer, she whispered, shaking in fear.
I know, Butch gulped, his heart pounding into Cassidy. He began kissing her fiercely. They knew they loved each other, and neither could believe that this was going to be their last moments on earth together. Their kiss broke off as they both could breathe the fumes. Butch began taking deep breaths, and Cassidy held hers. She kissed Butch on the cheek one last time and began to hyperventilate as well.
------------------------------
James, Tianna and the two pokemon arrived at the apartment about half an hour later than Misty and Ash.
I'm hoooome! Tianna shouted, throwing the door open. She then held six pokeballs in the air. Clothes, I choose you! she shouted gleefully, and she then threw them at the couch, where they opened and landed.
James walked in yawning. It'll be nice to unwind for a little while, don't you think? He yawned again.
Tianna agreed, and she flopped down into the pile of clothing. I know it's the afternoon and all, but I just want to chuck my pajamas on and hit the sack. Hey, where is everyone?
James shouted. Ash? Brock? Nurse lady?
Misty and Ash came out of a room nervously. They were holding hands, and Tianna assumed that their worry stemmed for being caught alone in a room.
Tianna smirked, what were you two doing in there? Eh?
They didn't speak, and Kirrana came out of the room behind them.
Oh, menegentrois eh? Tianna laughed, then suddenly realized that her sister was there. Hey! What the fuck are you doing here?
The doctor from the mainland called me to help your friend, she snorted. Thanks for being so grateful.
So how is he? James interjected, trying to stop the coming cat fight.
I dunno, Kirrana shrugged. He's not here.
James' jaw dropped. Then where the hell is he?
We don't know, Ash answered. He never came back.
James slapped his forehead, then slid his hand down his face until it reached his chin. I swear to God I'm going to kill every Team Rocket member still alive--
Me too, Ash innocuously interrupted, tell me where their hideout is.
Isn't it obvious? James put a hand on his hip, they've been at the Goldenrod City radio tower for months. Giovanni's stupid office is on the top floor.
I'm going there then, Ash stated matter-of-factly. He was strangely cool and collected, but James guessed that he was hiding a lot of anger behind the collectedness.
I'm going too! James demanded, I want to bash their asses in! Just lead me to them and they're dead!
I'm going too, Misty said softly, putting a hand on Ash's shoulder. Brock didn't deserve this. Not at all.
Ash stared at Misty for a moment. No one deserves this. We need to put a stop to it.
Tianna had left the room while they were conversing and returned.
We're not just fighting with pokemon this time, she growled. I just called this one apprentice who has a huge collection of guns. I call him Rambo because he has so many. We can stop at his place and load up. He said he'd be glad to help us exterminate those Team Rocket bastards. And he's very young--he's very interested in meeting you, Ash.
Ash blushed, then shook his head to focus on the business at hand.
Take me too! Kirrana pleaded, I'm a waaay better shot than she is.
Tianna looked at her sister disgustedly. There's no way in hell you're going.
You two can't risk your lives for this, Ash sagely said, this is our battle.
Like hell, Tianna growled, I'm gonna rip them to shreds. If Kirrana goes I'll just use her as a shield.
Kirrana frowned.
And besides, Tianna tried to sell herself, we need to take dragonite. She can carry the most people.
All right, Ash agreed, but let's go quickly. Maybe Brock is still alive.
Misty almost fell over as she cut in, he could be alive! We have to rescue him!
And avenge my sweet Jessie, James said deeply, his voice resonating eerily. The others looked at him, in an almost scared manner, as they'd never heard him speak so forcefully.
Does da meowth get a gun? Meowth asked, breaking the silence.
You can have two if you like, Tianna replied. Let's roll.
They changed into thicker clothing, each new piece with as many pockets as were available, and then went outside to begin flying. James stuffed a pajama top underneath his shirt as if it would deflect bullets, but no one commented as they knew anything that would make them feel better at this time was worth doing, even if it didn't really help at all.
--------------------------------
I told you you should have taken me home first, Brock mumbled as he slipped back into consciousness. He noticed that Ryce had taken her underwear off while he was out and put it on his wound.
Just shut up! Jessie screamed. Brock noticed that her face was red as if she'd been sobbing maniacally. Ryce's face was red as well. Brock was lying flat in the back of the car with no stretcher, and he felt every bump. His head probably would have cracked open were it not in Ryce's lap.
he choked.
Don't be silly now, she sniffled. She was crying rivers of tears. Brock then noticed that his chest was wet. And bare.
Brock was suddenly snapped into ultimate alertness, and he jumped out of his skin as he realized something immensely important.
They were all naked.
Please tell me this is just all one big nightmare, Brock pleaded.
Oh it is, Jessie assured, but we're living it.
Brock began to ask a question, but wasn't sure he wanted the answer. Why don't we have our clothes on?
Because the man who so graciously seated us in the van decided that we might have weapons on us, she scowled, glaring at the man in the passenger seat.
Shut up back there! he screamed, turning around and pointing a gun at them.
He didn't, Brock stammered, whispering now after the gunman turned around, he didn't do anything to you, I mean, he--
Ryce answered, putting a finger to his lips.
Brock blushed as she sat over him, completely in the nude. He could see each of her ribs clearly defined, and her stomach was almost concave she was so thin. He had an urge to ask her if she was anorexic, but thought better of it. He had no hand with which to hold hers, and she was merely applying pressure to the wound where his hand once was. Brock's chin began to quiver, and his lips flipped upside down into a strong frown. He choked once, and then began to cry as he watched Ryce's shaking hands and her face continually reddening from the non-stop flow of tears. All the pain which wracked his body reminded him of themselves at that moment, and he began to convulse as he wept.
Ryce shouted in a whisper, wide-eyed, what's happening?
I want to hold your hand, he cried, but I don't have one!
Ryce consoled, rubbing his chest with her other hand. It's going to be all right. We'll get through this somehow. Remember Brock, I'm going to take care of you. I haven't done a good job so far, but I'm going to.
You have done a good job, Brock continued to cry, I mean, you're actually touching my bleeding hand. That says something.
They looked at each other in understanding for a time before they noticed Jessie rocking back and forth with her head between her knees and her chest, her arms over her knees.
she groaned, I'm going to die before I ever see my sweet James again.
How did you live anyway? the passenger interjected from the front. I mean, you looked dead! The doctor took your pulse and said your heartbeat stopped and everything. Then you just disappeared while you were in the morgue and hour before--
Jessie snorted, I didn't think cremation would be much fun, if you can imagine.
The passenger decided that might made right once again and pointed the gun at her. Tell me how you lived, or you won't have a chance to see James ever again.
Jessie just looked up at him for a moment, daggers in her eyes, piercing despite the red, bloated, tear-worn face that surrounded them. He was actually about to back down when she turned away from him and answered.
There's medication that can make one so slowed down that they appear dead, even to doctors, she curtly explained. Meowth got me out of the morgue when he knew it was going to wear off. I was living dead.
But the iocane powder, Brock interjected, puzzled from his knowledge of James' story. Couldn't you have pretended and let James in on it?
I wasn't going to do it at all, she shrugged. It was just a backup plan in case the house was bugged. I didn't get to talk to Meowth for long. I guess he assumes that I told James some how and that he's just putting on a show for you twerps.
It's no show, Brock sighed, feeling suddenly chilled from being on the floor of the cold van in his birthday suit. What I wouldn't give just to be home right now!
You would be, the passenger interjected, if you little shits weren't always fucking up Team Rocket's plans.
I'm thinking better of it now, thank you, Brock snorted.
Just shut up! the passenger ordered. I'll blow your fucking heads off if you talk again!
Brock flipped him off when he turned around, and slid into mental and physical depression. Ryce still held his former hand and rubbed his chest and neck as he silently agonized, and the car ride seemed to last forever before they suddenly stopped. The driver got out of the car, while the passenger sat and pointed his gun at them. They heard voices coming up to the back.
Sunlight suddenly flooded the van, and Brock had to close his eyes to cope with it.
he heard a familiar and masculine voice say as he sized up the cargo, they'll do just fine. Tie them up and gag them. We'll have a little fun with them before we destroy them.
Brock felt helpless as he was injected with tranquilizer. He remembered Ryce hugging him tightly as it was done, upset because she had to let go of his hand which was caked with blood and sticking profusely to the underwear she had used to wrap it with. She breathed in erratically, not breathing out as her hand was pried away. She was injected as well, then pried away easily as she fell limp like a rag doll.
My God, Brock thought as he too realized that what little he was able to move before he now could not, we're still conscious.
His eyes moved over Ryce, who was on her stomach face down in the van. They dragged her out by her feet, breaking her nose along the way. It left a trail of blood along the bed of the van as she was pulled out, and Brock knew that she was helplessly feeling all of it.
No! Brock mentally screamed, tears wishing to escape from his eyes, but unable to do so. My poor Ryce! Oh my God, that's sick! They're going to pay!
Brock's heart became extremely heavy within his chest, and he wished he had told Ryce to stay at the hospital when she had the chance. I'll take care of you, Ryce, he mentally sobbed, as soon as I'm well. I'll take care of you.
The next and the last to go slack was Jessie, and she resisted it a bit, not falling for a few minutes after injected. She at least knew to land on her back, and when she was dragged she merely received scratches on her back. They hoisted her up like a doll and tied her hands behind her back and her feet together. Both girls were being carried by a strong Team Rocket member into the building.
She's bleedin' on me boss, the one carrying Ryce complained.
Giovanni ordered. And take them to my office.
Brock was the last to go, and had to be carried on the strongest member because he was so much heavier. He was taken to the office as well, and seriously believed that he was going to die after having been jostled so much. He was supposed to stay off his feet, and that he was doing, but part of the reasoning for that was so that his internal injuries would have time to heal, and that any bruised organ would not be coerced into rupturing.
Just let me live God, he prayed. I don't want to die now. I haven't even had a girl who loved me back yet in my life. Let me live.
With that prayer Brock was dropped onto a couch. He was being treated somewhat more nicely than the girls were being treated. They were merely lying on the floor, unable to move, their limbs tied.
The one who carried Ryce was putting a wet paper towel on her nose to stop the bleeding. He was wincing, and had a genuine frown on his face.
Come on, the one who had carried Jessie commanded, we have to get out of here.
This poor girl, he frowned She was just a nurse.
Then what was she doing with all those pokemon in her pockets? the other rolled his eyes. Come on, let's get going.
The man still seemed distraught, and remained as long as possible to stop the bleeding. He had laid her on her back and left the paper towel there, hoping it would help.
When they left, Jessie came to quickly. She worked her hands out of the rope, ripped the duct tape from her mouth, and then untied Ryce.
Get up Ryce, she frowned, and helped with her nose. Oooh, that's got to hurt.
She tried to walk around to Brock, but noticed two dead bodies behind Giovanni's desk. She threw up promptly, then began to tremor and sob furiously.
Oh how I failed you, she cried at the bodies as she stepped away, fumbling backwards on a lamp. She wiped her mouth, and turned around, quivering like a naked child in the snow as she kneeled before Brock.
Brock was untied shortly, but he was still unable to move. Jessie was obviously still woozy because she stumbled around quite a bit while she tried to save everyone. She tried to pull the rope around Brock's wrists and feet away, but he shook his head as he heard the door handle being rattled. He clung to the rope with his hands and feet as he had regained enough movement to squeeze them together, and waited to be taken out. The gag still remained over his mouth, and he just watched helplessly while Jessie grabbed a lamp and stood near the door, ready to pummel whoever walked in. She was totally naked, and still shook in weakness from the tranquilizer.
One of Giovanni's minions walked in ahead of him, and Jessie brought the lamp down on his head. But she didn't have the strength to knock him out. The lamp remained intact, and she dropped to the ground.
Jessie, Jessie, Jessie, Giovanni shook his head, apparently in real sadness. Then he shook his head, and it became mock sadness. You stupid bitch. You can't get away! Tie her up again!
She was then tied up again, this time more tightly, and two pieces of duct tape covered her mouth, the uppermost overlapping the other. She breathed heavily and uncontrollably, and her eyes ran over with tears as she was thrown back into the center of the room.
Oh, don't feel so bad, Giovanni pretended to be concerned, you guys are my gift to your friends who are coming to visit me today!
God no! Jessie gasped. They need to stay away from here!
But why?' Giovanni pushed out his lip, pretending to pout. We have this great party waiting for them when they get here.
Giovanni then patted her cheek, and she turned away.
Don't play so hard to get, Giovanni advised, James will die before you get to have your fun with him anyway.
Jessie spat at him, and he guffawed loudly.
he continued laughing, take them to the lobby and do as I'd said.
The three were hoisted over the brawny Rocket member's shoulders once again and they began the long trek down to the lobby. The elevators in the tower weren't the speediest, and Jessie was sweating profusely the whole way down. She'd always dreamed that Team Rocket would finally just win--but she prayed to God now that they would lose, and lose big.
-------------------------------------
Ash had expected an army of four humans and their pokemon to go wreak havoc upon Team Rocket, but his posse had become quite the Calvary as they took to the skies on their various pokemon. Meowth and Pikachu were alone on Meowth's pidgeot. James and Tianna were happy on her dragonite, Kirrana rode with--oddly enough--her mother on another dragonite, Ash and Misty were on a dodrio, and Rambo was on another dodrio. He was a bird catcher trainer, and had more bird pokemon than Ash had ever seen. Of course, it was extremely convenient, but Ash assumed that Tianna had just chosen her connections well.
They had a grand plan on how to destroy team rocket, and it was so crazy that Ash seriously doubted that it even had a chance of working. Misty was extremely keyed up since she was one of the most important component if the plan was going to work, and she fingered her pokeballs nervously as she awaited landing. Author's note: yes, I did that on purpose.
Ash reached his head back to kiss Misty's cheek, then went back to concentrate on flying. The dodrio was really just following the rest of the flying pokemon, and he had little to worry about, but he had to force himself to concentrate on something in his nervousness.
Goldenrod City became visible below them before long, and Tianna's mom, who was leading, led the descent downward first.
Tianna's mom was still fairly young, and she was the leader of the Blackthorn city gym. She was just as blunt and obnoxious as her daughters, but had a presence which not only commanded respect, but reeked of leadership and she was almost fear inducing. Ash was glad to have her around.
Tianna shouted.
Call me mom you whore-child, she grunted.
Tianna called again, land near the gym! We don't want to be too obvious!
Clair nodded and turned sharply toward the gym. Everyone followed.
Quite a few bystanders in the city pointed upward at them, and they knew they were seen by at least one Team Rocket member. However, as Ash noticed, he didn't go to snitch. He merely looked away, pretending he hadn't seen them. Ash saw another do the same thing. They didn't want Ash's group to lose the element of surprise.
Ash closed his eyes tightly as dodrio landed. Not because he was scared to land, but because he knew that they might not even come out alive. But he was prepared for that. He was prepared to do anything just to put an end to Team Rocket once and for all.
All right, Clair began rallying the masses, you all know what you're supposed to do. Tianna, keep out of our way.
Like HELL! she shouted, and dragonite growled at the gym leader.
What do you see in her? Clair shook her head to the dragonite. It barred its teeth at her.
Thinks I'm better than you, Tianna taunted, I didn't have to go borrow my daddy's dragonite, in case you haven't noticed.
Just shut up, Clair ordered, we have work to do.
Stay out of our way, Tianna rolled her eyes, continuing to goad.
Clair just looked at her, shook her head, and turned back.
It's do or die folks, she said, like a true drill sergeant, and we have to make this work. We're going to rush the place and bombard it with all we've got. Spare NO ONE, we can't afford to make--
Wait wait wait, Ash interrupted, you guys have to know not to shoot our friends.
Excluding their friends, Clair added. Though after seeing their pictures, I think that goes without saying.
Just making sure, Ash said through clenched teeth.
Misty asked intently, her eyes narrowed and focused on all those before her.
they nodded in unison, and put all their pokemon away.
Let's caulk our guns, Rambo suggested.
An applause of caulking went on for about thirty seconds, then they all ran toward the building, ready to wage absolute war.
The door to the building was locked, and since Rambo had the most ammo, he took it upon himself to gun it down.
They all ran in, guns pointed in every direction. Meowth was given two in fact, two hand guns. He stood in front of pikachu, since the little yellow ball of fur had nothing but its own electrical constitution for its defense.
All of the lights in the room were off, and except for the daylight which allowed them to see the outline of everything in the room, it was uncomfortably dark.
They looked around the room, preparing for ambush, but instead met silence.
Ash grumbled. They were ready for us.
They walked in a mob along the room's walls, still facing no one. They were prepared in case they were going to be gassed.
Masks on! Ash shouted, suddenly worried. The police were very interested in their cause, and supplied them once again with all the masks needed.
Everyone complied, and Ash helped pikachu put his on, but no gas was released. The silence was unbroken except by the group's footsteps.
They just stopped in the middle of the far wall, wondering if they should climb the stairs and get try and find their quarry on the next floor, or wait to see what would happen. They wondered this in unison, though didn't speak of it. Since they didn't speak, waiting seemed to be the preferable option.
They weren't quick to put their guns down, they were protected in every direction by someone wielding a gun. Misty had three pokeballs in their smallest state between the fingers of her left hand, ready to spring the plan into action should it become necessary. Nothing could go wrong. Tianna held a pokeball in its smallest state in her left hand as well, waiting for the word, waiting for anything just to spring into action.
It's dark in here, Misty whispered, shivering a little as she wished she could see better.
Pikachu understood her concern and let a little bit of electricity circle his fur, lighting up the room.
Ash wished that he hadn't done that, for he could see what was hanging from the roof.
Oh my God, he gagged, vomit coming up to his mouth. He ran into a corner to throw up, and heard the gasps as everyone looked up to the roof.
James screamed in primal hatred. They put Jessie's body up there!
Pikachu shone in that area, sniffing the air, and just staring.
There were three naked bodies strung from the roof by their hands and feet, hanging limply and lifeless. Blood dripped from the face of the black haired one they recognized as Brock's nurse, and it took a long ride before splattering to the floor. The three looked even more revolting with what little light was shed upon them, as it glowed off of their frigid skin and cast their odious and frightening doubles on the wall, their flaccid and wavering shadows.
My sweet Jessie! James shouted, now screaming for all he was worth. No one bothered to silence him because they wanted Team Rocket to come to them anyway.
Pikachu was nearly done casting light when one of the bodies moved.
All stopped dead in their tracks to stare at the movement. It was very subtle, and they almost believed that they had collectively imagined it. They had almost believed that, until Jessie's whole head lifted to face them, and she began to scream in horror from behind the gag.
Jessie is alive! Ash sputtered, stumbling backwards, she's alive--and tied to the roof!
James screamed once again, extremely charged by fear, as he had seen Jessie dead on her apartment floor. His screaming didn't stop, even when the room was flooded by light.
Giovanni's voice toppled against the walls and resonated throughout the floor, you came to visit! How sweet. If I'd have known you were coming I would have baked a cake.
Can it, Brock shouted from his position in the air. It was a feeble shout, but everyone then knew he was alive.
Oh Brock! Misty shouted up to him. We'll save you.
Giovanni sighed. He was standing on the second floor, looking down at them from it. The building had a hole down the center where people from the top floor could see straight down, and from there he grinned and conversed with them. This was also where the three had been tied, and they were across from him, but lower as they descended into the first floor. I'm sorry. You came just in time to watch them die.
Giovanni then pulled his hands out in front of him. He had been harboring a sniper rifle.
Misty shouted, and every one of the group began to fire at him.
Giovanni had fired while they were firing, but didn't hit his hostages. Instead he shot their ropes, and they began tumbling to the ground, as did he.
Bulbasaur go! Ash shouted, but in effect had released all of his pokemon.
Rambo threw all his pokemon out, six different birds.
Catch them! he ordered, and his dodrios, which were fastest, caught Jessie and Ryce.
Get Brock and don't let him hit roughly! Ash shouted to bulbasaur, not sure his order had made sense.
Bulbasaur replied, and his vines dashed out to recover Brock in a lightning-quick snap. His vines curled around Brock, then tightened. He bent the vines as they tightened, in effect absorbing the shock from the fall.
Ash dashed over to bulbasaur as he lay Brock down gently. Oh thank you bulbasaur! You're a genius!
One of Rambo's birds, a fearow, had caught Giovanni in its confusion, but it didn't matter. He was already dead. Rambo had apparently blown his head clean off with his twelve gauge.
At this point James was either totally relishing in the fact that Jessie was naked, or totally ignoring it. He could hardly walk he was shaking so badly as he stumbled to where she was put down, throwing his arms around her.
he shouted, with a lack of something more profound to say.
she shouted back, apparently suffering from the same affliction.
It wasn't a second before they were engaged in a mind shattering kiss. Among the most highly rated kisses of all time, Westley and Buttercup's almost rivaled this one, but wasn't quite good enough. Their rapture was more than either of them could bear, and their hearts beat so furiously against each other they almost passed out in their passion.
When they finally stopped, after what had seemed to the others an eternity had passed, James blushed and began stripping off his clothes.
Ash tried to put on the breaks, this is neither the time--
Quiet twerp, James ordered, and began putting his clothes on Jessie. He pulled the pajama top from his shirt and was in a pajama top and boxers, while Jessie was garmented in his loosely fitting t-shirt and pants.
she cried, I was cold.
James began to sob loudly, his mouth wide open as he clutched Jessie to him. I don't know how you came back to me but thaaaank you! I'll never doubt the power of prayer again! Oh my Jessie, oh my sweet!
she sniffed, and they began kissing again.
Ash stood near Brock, and took his own shirt off. Ash then covered Brock's private parts with it, and put a hand to his head. You're going to be all right now.
Brock smiled up at Ash, unable to maintain a display of happiness for long. You've been a good friend Ash. a best friend.
And I'll always be one, Ash smiled, not quite understanding the underlying connotation of Brock's statement.
At this point Ryce scrambled up and crawled over to Brock. She was shaking, half in cold, half in pain. She picked up Brock's hand and put it in front of her, then laid her head on his chest.
I'm going to take care of you now, Brock told her.
she began, shivering and chattering between each word she managed to squeak out, going to--take--care--of you!
James kissed Jessie quickly, and gave his pajama top to Ryce. She looked as if she needed it more than him. He winced after she put it on and he could see the heavy bruising under her eyes as an effect from her broken nose. Her nose itself looked smashed upward, and it was completely crusted in blood. Her face was crusted in blood in two streams joined under her chin, and her hair was caked a little.
That poor girl is a mess, Jessie looked at her with concern in her eyes as James put his bare arms around her.
We've got to get you all to a doctor, James pointed out.
Jessie agreed, crawling into James' arms further, I think I've had far too much tranquilizer. It didn't keep me down very well. The rebels didn't have long to train, but they tried to have everyone develop an immunity to certain poisons, including the tranquilizer that Team Rocket always uses.
James blinked. You were immune to iocane powder?
Jessie shook her head sadly, that was all for show, for the bugs that Team Rocker agents planted in my apartment. I took a different drug that made me seem dead. Meowth was supposed to tell you.
James turned to Meowth.
Meowth sighed. I wanted to James, but wit everything happening, I didn't get da chance.
James nodded. It's all right now. It's all right now that we're together. Don't ever leave me again Jessie, ever.
Jessie nodded. I never will James. Never.
James cried again, in happiness again, and rocked back and forth with Jessie in his arms.
Let's go, Ash whispered gently into Misty's ear. He then turned to bulbasaur, who was still out. Can you carry Brock outside for me?
it said, apparently agreeing to do it.
Ryce whispered into his ear, will you still take care of me even though my face looks like hell?
You're beautiful, Brock assured. Just beautiful.
Ryce continued to shake, and had to get up so bulbasaur could lift up Brock.
Someone called, exiting the elevator. You forgot your parting gifts!
Ash and Misty's heads snapped toward the direction of the voice, and found that it belonged to an incredibly imposing looking man. He had rather messy black hair, and acrimony bordering on total insanity in is eyes. He wasn't bad looking, but his smile just seemed filthy, especially when one considered the rather imposing looking automatic rifle he was wielding.
I'm so sick of guns, Tianna gritted her teeth, some odd last words for someone who might be destined to death.
Kirrana sprang into action, jumping in front of the flock and flopping to the floor with a flood, and began firing bullets in an endless string at the man, hoping to kill him before he managed to kill the people she accompanied.
The bullets hacked through the air as snakes cruising the ocean, but were not quick enough. The man had released an onix, and it deflected the bullets.
Nice onix, the man complemented, we got it off of one of the nudists over here.
Who the fuck are you? Ash asked, and it was truly the question on everyone's minds.
The man who makes this operation work, he smirked. The man that worked poor dead Giovanni like a puppet. But he was weak, so now he's dead.
Like you're gonna be in a minute! James screamed, once again in a voice that terrified everyone who had known him well.
the man rolled his eyes. He's passionate now, now that he's back on the losing side. You just can't win James--once the chips are down for one side you join it! You're the anti-fair-weather friend!
Go fuck yourself, James spat back at him.
Oh if only that were possible, the guy replied.
Who ARE you? Ash asked again.
They call me Poison Dagger, he explained, and that's the last name you'll hear before death.
Brock called weakly, bind, now!
Onix listened to his true master and curled around poison dagger to squeeze his life out.
Listen to me, Poison Dagger ordered, but Onix didn't listen.
Mantine, go! Poison Dagger shouted, and managed to free his arm to throw Brock's water pokemon. Surf now!
Water enveloped the onix, and it fainted dead away.
My mantine, Brock frowned.
Poison Dagger laughed, still hiding behind Onix. It's my mantine now, though.
Har har har, Brock growled, that was unique! I never would have said that after stealing your pokemon, you unoriginal asshole!
But Poison Dagger was through playing games.
he shouted.
The group looked all around them as Team Rocket members began repelling from the roof down to the floor. They were all dressed in black, and Ash almost passed out. They were all far better armed than he and his posse were.
Ash turned to her, squeezing her hand. Time for the plan.
Misty nodded. All of the Team Rocket members had landed on the floor, and were caulking their guns. Misty didn't have much time.
The others in the group began shooting, careful to aim high.
Water pokemon, Misty shouted,
All of Misty's pokemon escaped their balls and stood on the floor. This occurred quickly, as the Team Rocket agents were still in the process of caulking.
Just get them fucking wet! she shouted, not having the time to call out individual attacks.
The pokemon somehow understood, however, as they blasted the Team Rocket agents to the floor. They managed to start shooting, but couldn't hit their targets as they were both on the ground and blinded.
Ash shouted, thunder, now!
Pikachu shouted, and the room was lit up like fireworks. The Team Rocket agents were frying like pancakes as Pikachu continued his electric attack. He was just about out of juice when Tianna stepped up next to Ash.
Ampharos, go! she shouted, use thunder now!
The second barrage began, not quite so phenomenal as the first, but enough to be sure the agents weren't going to get up again.
Poison Dagger's face went white.
You die now! He shouted, and pressed the trigger of the gun.
But someone was ready for it. Someone had made their way around the room and snuck up behind the man while his minions were being scrambled.
Oh no you don't! Brock wheezed, pulling the gun into the air.
No Brock! Ryce shouted, you'll die!
Then so be it! Brock shouted back, smashing the gun into Poison Dagger's face.
Poison Dagger turned, relatively unscathed since Brock was weak at the moment. He did nothing but pick Brock up and throw him to the ground.
He turned once again to the others while Brock gasped.
I've got a clear shot, one of his adversaries said, and all of the sudden a sharp pain began in his neck and traveled throughout his body.
Poison Dagger dropped to the ground--alive, but utterly paralyzed.
Misty and Ryce shouted at once, and ran over to him.
Ryce fell to the floor about halfway there since they were trying to walk over the fallen bodies of the Team Rocket agents, and Misty got to him first.
she shouted again, gulping and putting her arms around Brock's neck, though it was turned sideways.
Brock was naked once again and had curled into the fetal position. He was shaking and gasping and sweating. Ryce feared that Poison Dagger accomplished what he had wanted--to murder Brock by making his internal injuries fatal.
Misty began to cry, don't leave me!
he stammered, I love you! I still love you! I try to get over you, but I can't. But I guess I will in the afterlife.
Misty shook her head, no, don't say that. Please. You'll be all right.
Brock shouted, gasping, and he turned onto his back, not caring about his nakedness. I'm going to die without ever having been truly loved! I'm going to die a virgin!
You're not going to die, Misty assured him, crying with double the intensity you're going to be fine!
Brock began quietly, wishing he could take her hand. Promise me you'll kiss me on New Years. Promise me that.
Of course I will, she sniffed, confused. But that's so far off, I want to kiss you now.
Brock allowed for himself to be kissed, then began to sob.
I don't want to die, Misty, I want to have love first, he wept.
I love you, Misty bit her lip.
Brock cried more, you don't! I could have had magic with someone else, Misty, I could have had love. I could have been with someone who wanted me back, like Ryce. But I was in denial, I still thought I could be with you. I thought we could have something.
We can! Misty shouted, you can still have magic! You can still have love! Just live for me baby, live until we can get you to a hospital.
Brock sniffed again, then the sobs became heavier.
Just kiss me, he swallowed, kiss me, so that I can die kissing.
Misty nodded, and leaned over to kiss Brock. She kissed him sweetly, a kiss of love that she had only previously given to Ash. Her love for him was of friendship, but it was an incredibly strong platonic love. She wondered why she just couldn't have actually loved Brock instead. Why she couldn't have just fallen for him instead of Ash.
Brock began to slip away as the kiss went on, and his head fell sideways to the ground. His cheeks were freckled with a million tears, and reddened by a million rivers of them. Misty put two fingers to his neck and felt his pulse weakening. She pulled away quickly, not wanting to shatter as she felt it disappear entirely.
Misty fell back and began to sob, and Ryce, who had been hovering over them all along, put her head back on Brock's chest.
I'm going to take care of you, she gritted her teeth, then began to resuscitate him, I said I was going to take care of you and I'm going to to take care of you damnit!
Ryce wished that it was she he'd asked to be the last person he kissed as she gave him mouth to mouth, but knew that it was too soon for that. She continued with CPR in hopes that he would live, then they could be together and have magic and love as he'd always desired. She'd help him get over Misty. She'd help him get well.
Everyone else had remained dutifully slack jawed as they watched the scene between the women and Brock. Ash made all his pokemon return, as did Misty, and afterward he finally got the nerve to walk over to the dying Poison Dagger.
Who the fuck are you? he asked, kicking the man. He looked at Brock as he did it. I know your name isn't Poison Dagger, asshole.
You've always been a bright one, he said sarcastically, except in whisper because the damage to the throat didn't allow him to talk.
Ash kicked him again, once again turning to look at Brock as he did it. It was that that fueled his anger.
You really want to know my name? Poison Dagger narrowed his eyes. My name is Montana.
What kind of a name is that? Ash growled.
Montana Ketchum, he finished.
Fucking liar! Ash screamed, and began kicking him harder.
Oh am I? he coughed, did your mother ever tell you why your father isn't around?
Yeah she did, he kicked him again. He died fuckhole! The Luke I am your father thing is so old!
Poison Dagger laughed. So naive. Go look up a list of fugitives sometimes you little shit. I was arrested two months before you were born for murder in the first degree, and attempt of murder. I hacked up your older sister real good. I was in the process of strangling your mother when the neighbors called the cops.
You lying bitch! Ash shouted, and kicked the man in the balls. My dad was a pokemon trainer! My dad died when my mom was seven months pregnant, in a boating accident! I never had a sister!
Look it up, he snarled, then passed away when Ash kicked him in the head.
Ash was fuming. His demeanor was completely tense, and his hands were balled into fists. He gave Dagger's cadaver one final kick, then turned to face Misty. His anger then gave way to emotional exhaustion, and he passed out.
Misty ran over to Ash's crumpled body and held him in her lap. Oh Ash, she closed her eyes and ran her fingers gently through his hair. In his sleep he was so innocent, his lips slightly parted as he puffed away his troubles into the safety of unconsciousness. She kissed him gently as he lye in her arms and cradled him like a baby.
You are a baby, she thought, my sweet baby.
Misty looked over to Ryce and Brock. Jessie and James had stepped through the piles of bodies which were in the middle of the floor to reach them.
Don't give up! Jessie told Ryce, keep doing it until the helicopter arrives!
James added, Clair and her daughters left to call the hospital, so don't give up on him.
Silence ensued for a moment, besides the breaths Ryce was steadily giving to Brock. Rambo remained, and suddenly cocked his head toward the elevator, which had remained open.
I hear ticking, he frowned, staring into the elevator.
Get out! Jessie screamed. We have to get out!
But I can't stop giving him CPR! Ryce paled.
You'll both die if we stay, Jessie panicked, we'll try and get you both out quickly!
Get his pokemon, Ryce bit her lip.
Jessie shook and quickly ran over to Poison Dagger. She searched his carcass for pokeballs, and found a belt with them around his waist. She recognized some as hers.
Now let's get out! she ordered. Meowth stood by her leg, ready to start running on all fours as soon as she began. Speed was not a bipedal meowth's element, but he was surely quick when he reverted to all fours once again.
James hoisted Ash over his shoulder, deciding to get Ash instead of Brock because he would live for sure.
Misty grabbed pikachu when Ash was gone from her arms and looked wild eyed to where she needed to go. Pikachu shocked her a little in his fear, but Misty ignored it and followed James to where Jessie was standing.
No time Jessie, he bit his lip.
I can't lift him! Ryce screamed, trying to lift Brock quickly between resuscitation.
Leave him, Jessie said painfully, we have no choice!
she shouted, I told him I'd take care of him!
Misty grabbed Ryce's hand, with pikachu curled into her other elbow, attempting to make Ryce leave, but she pulled away.
I'm not going! she confirmed. Not without Brock!
James and Jessie looked at each other, wasting valuable time as they tried to see if Rambo could carry Ash. He could not--Rambo was only about thirteen and wasn't strong enough.
Adrenalin flowed though Ryce's veins, and she wasn't leaving without Brock. The ticking stopped, and everyone began running. She ran as well, dragging Brock by his casted arm.
I'm so sorry, she whispered, knowing that her actions would only damage it further. She just hoped that she could salvage his fleeting life.
Everyone was out except for her when fire began to burst from the elevator into the entire hall.
Oh boy, Ryce frowned, and she began to pull on Brock harder. She needed to get him out faster and continue on CPR--
James ran back for her after putting Ash down in safety, despite Jessie's screaming. He hoisted Brock up over his shoulder, grabbed Ryce's hand and made a mad dash for safety. He never looked back, though he could feel the fire nip at his back as he pumped his legs faster than he ever had before. He didn't even notice that Ryce was nearly flying behind him as he didn't let her slow down. The heat dissipated eventually, but he didn't slow down until he reached the gym, which was where his friends were.
He put Brock down gently, and although Ryce was heaving and her lungs were hungry for breath themselves, she immediately went back to giving Brock CPR.
Was anyone around the building when it exploded? James asked inbetween gasps for air.
Jessie shook her head, they all ran for dear life when they saw us do the same. And the police are showing up.
James nodded as his breath began to return to him. He swallowed before explaining as his throat had become dry from breathing through his mouth. Ash told them to show up in a couple of hours when he went to get the gas masks.
Jessie fell into James' arms, feeling comfortable, and drifted to sleep as they waited for the helicopter to take them away. Jessie didn't feel that she wanted to have anything to do with helicopters, but as long as she could be with James, she'd face it.
Brock would have felt the same way--but he refused to live and bitch about it. Ryce's efforts seemed increasingly fruitless, but she refused to give up. Misty was shocked at the devotion he was receiving from someone who barely even knew him.
Everyone looked up as their hair whipped around their faces and the air around them began to swirl. Each of their hearts lifted as two helicopters landed on the roof of the gym.
Tianna shouted, running over to them, I just got off the phone! I'm glad you guys came back here!
Two paramedics had descended from the ladders of the helicopters and examined the patients. They moved Ryce out of the way and felt Brock's neck.
He has a faint pulse, one determined, but he isn't breathing.
The other paramedic nodded, and began giving him CPR. He had brought a mouth guard to do it with, and was much more forceful than Ryce had the strength to be.
He's alive, she sighed relievedly.
You saved his life, Misty told her softly, awe welling in her eyes.
Ryce looked up at misty, crying in her happiness. Misty looked around for a tissue so that Ryce could wipe the blood that was crusting around her mouth, but didn't need to.
These two need to go to the hospital too, James announced, pointing to Jessie and Ryce as the other paramedic came back. They were injected with tranquilizer and we don't know how safe it is.
The paramedic nodded as he hooked Brock up to a machine which breathed for him. He brought it down from a ladder which went from the helicopters on the roof to the ground. He left once again.
They're from a different hospital, Tianna announced. 911 put me through to a different one. They have much better helicopters, though they're about a ten minute flight farther away.
Misty shook her head, as long as they get the job done!
The helicopters left the roof and landed on the Goldenrod City shopping center. The paramedic returned after having dropped three stretchers.
We're taking them to the roof of the mall since the elevator can take us there, he said to the other paramedic. But we'll have to come back for each.
We'll take the man first, he's worst off, the paramedic which was attending to Brock announced.
I can walk, Jessie announced.
Me too, Ryce also announced, though with a wavering voice.
We'd prefer you stayed here, the paramedic who had brought the stuff said. They then placed all three people on the stretchers and strapped them in, and ran off quickly with Brock in the stretcher. They returned more quickly than anyone would have thought, and began to carry off Ryce. When they came back for Jessie, the helicopter with those two in it had already left.
Someone can go with you, a paramedic tersely said, and he seemed restless to leave.
I'm going with her then, James announced, and he raced alongside them as they wasted no time getting Jessie to the other helicopter. Meowth went along too, assuming that no one would object if he added his insignificant weight to the mix.
The healthy bystanders watched as the helicopters seemed to shoot into the air and slice through the skies. The wind finally died down as they escaped the horizon, and the stunned onlookers began to converse regarding what had just happened. Ash, Misty, Tianna, Kirrana, Clair and Rambo took a little longer than the people of the city to come to, and were rather detached even as they conversed with each other.
Ash began to wake. Misty was holding him as she sat cross-legged on the ground, and he stood shakily with her help, not yet speaking a word. He still appeared frail as he leaned on Misty to remain standing, but was becoming stronger as time wore on.
Thanks for all your help, Misty told to Clair, Kirrana and Rambo. We couldn't have done it without you, and you know you didn't have to.
Anything for Tianna! Rambo smiled, saluted his friend, and released his eldest dodrio. Everyone had given him his guns back, and he was packing quite a load. He had to release another bird just to carry all of the guns. He finished readying himself, then called to the group again. Call on me if you ever need help again!
Ash walked over and put a hand on Rambo's shoulder, remembering that he had looked up to him and wanted to meet him. You have skill, I can see that. Maybe I'll see you again someday when we're old and famous, out on the Indigo Plateau.
Rambo smiled brightly. I hope so! He shouted, and got on his dodrio.
he shouted warmly, good luck! And then he took off towards Blackthorn.
I guess we're going as well, Clair frowned. Take care, Tianna.
You too, Clair, Tianna squeaked out, as if it pained her to say it.
It's mom, okay? Clair grumbled.
Step-parents don't count, Tianna thought, but held her tongue. She just remained silent and waved as Clair and her sister took off on her step-grandfather's dragonite. She decided then to visit her real grandfather when this all was over. She needed to see some real family. Besides her sister.
Tianna then turned to those who remained. Let's go.
Ash concurred, so glad that he wouldn't have to be driving. He picked up pikachu and petted his fur. pikachu relaxed at this point, and didn't complain when they all went back to flying to the mainland on the back of Dragonite.
Tianna was in front, and Ash and Misty were incredibly affectionate as they flew. Pikachu was in Misty's lap, and Ash was behind Misty. Ash had his arms around Misty the whole time, and had taken to kissing her neck often, and burying his head into her soft neck. His shirt was off as it was lost in the explosion after he had lent it to Brock, and Misty felt like melting as he pressed his nude upper-body against her, even though she herself was fully clothed. Ash closed his eyes as he breathed in Misty's hair, thinking that it was the most pleasant smell in the known world. He needed her badly, and was glad that their years of dating off and on and light necking and being unsure had all come to a head, and with luck they would remain a permanent item. He was young and silly before. He was still young at fifteen, but old enough to where he could truly feel love in his heart for the woman he held in front of him. They had their disagreements in the past, but they both silently resolved to treat each other with more respect henceforth. It wasn't necessarily adhered to, but it was their resolution at the time.
Tianna stared blankly ahead as she directed her dragonite to where she was told the hospital was. She was bloody sick of hospitals, but didn't really have a choice. She still just wanted to crawl into her pajamas and flop onto the couch, but realized that she would have to utilize her mother's credit card once again, as they had failed to have the hindsight to pack for the occasion. But, such was life. She consoled herself with the fact that eventually she would be able to escape into the magical realm of sleep, and she daydreamed of the nap she would take as the ocean passed in a never ending mass below them.
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Tests were done quickly on Jessie since she was airlifted and received absolute priority over other emergency room patients, but she was just as quickly declared well enough for release. The tranquilizers hadn't caused major damage, and James was overwhelmed with happiness as he could hold Jessie for a good while longer because of this.
Ryce was retained in t he hospital, her nose was cleaned and set so that it wouldn't heal funny, and she had to be cleansed of the tranquilizer. She was a frail body, and didn't handle it as well as Jessie had. After her treatment she was taken to a normal hospital room, put on an IV and given strong pain killers Her face looked much more pleasant as the blood had been cleaned off and ice had been applied so the swelling went down, but her face became black as obsidian as her bruises deepened. She was awfully peaceful as she slept, and looked as if she was sleeping away her injuries while she lye on her back in one of the hospital's standard adjustable twin beds.
Jessie and James felt bad that they weren't visiting her, but Brock seemed to demand more attention. He was hooked up to a great deal of machinery in the intensive care unit, and wasn't able to breathe on his own. He was declared to be in a coma.
If he lives through this, the doctor said sadly, it would be a miracle. I'm sorry, but his chances are extremely low.
James nodded, and looked to Brock. He didn't look a thing like the same person, he was so covered in machinery that he could have been an android. At least he was in a hospital gown and covered by warm blankets. His heart monitor continued to thrive, as did the monitor of his brain waves. James didn't care what the doctor said, he believed that Brock would live.
Jessie, however, realized that Brock was beyond his last leg. She couldn't believe that he held on yet, but she knew he might as well have been gone at that point. She didn't know him well, but still felt immensely dejected as she listened to the Darth Vader-like sighing of the respirator as it forced Brock's lungs to pump.
It'll be a while before the others get here, Jessie whispered into James' ear, still looking at Brock as she did so.
I hope they get here soon, James replied, also looking at Brock. He subconsciously believed that Brock couldn't die as long as his eyes stayed on him. He held Jessie closely, and she was forced to look away, but James dutifully stared at Brock's succumbing shell.
They remained embracing as James stepped backwards toward a chair. Meowth had curled up into the one he was not sitting in for a long time as he took a long needed rest. Jessie's legs were swung over his own as he cradled her in his lap.
Lightning struck outside the window, and it was followed by a flash flood type storm. The sky had blackened impossibly, and rain pelted the window in waves and strokes as Jessie and James cuddled in front of it. James began to rock Jessie back and forth, holding her more tightly with each passing minute. It was strange how believing she was dead could make him appreciate her more, and how the bickering stopped once their love was out in the open.
Jessie whispered, what are we going to do from now on?
I don't know, James replied. Maybe we could become pokemon trainers together.Or maybe I could get a job and we could just get a place and live out the rest of out lives like normal people.
Sounds delicious, Jessie sighed, squirming a little in James' lap as she thought about the notion. She still had his huge clothing on, but luckily he was wearing his boxers and a hospital gown that they graciously let him have.
I hope everyone's okay in the rain, James pondered, and he began stroking Jessie's hair.
Can we have a fireplace in our house? Jessie asked, begining to ramble, so that we can sit by it when it rains?
Anything you like, James promised, and kissed Jessie on the head.
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Ash, Misty, Pikachu and Tianna landed in front of the hospital, relieved that they were no longer in danger of being struck by lightning. Ash was still shirltless and was shivering incredibly, and Misty was worried that he would be hospital bound from sickness soon. They entered and made quite the scene--three sopping wet teenagers, one without a shirt and holding a pikachu, and one with a dragonite.
The receptionist knew that a group had come to the hospital from the island a short while earlier, and the dragonite and pikachu tipped her off that they were here for them.
One is in intensive care and the other is on the seventeenth floor, the receptionist announced, gathering name tags for the lot. And we have extra hospital gowns.
That would be great, Ash smiled, and a nurse went off to get him something to wear.
Everything that day seemed to be against protocol, but the receptionist didn't fight it. She dutifully handed each a name tag, and though dragonite was put away, pikachu was allowed up. They'd let a meowth up earlier. They didn't want to, but he talked, and he somehow convinced them to let him be treated as a person while the doctors were too stunned to think clearly.
Tianna decided to visit Ryce since everyone else was with Brock. Ryce was asleep so Tianna just sat in a chair in the room with her chin resting on her hand, but it was all right. Any rest at all was good rest, and Ryce would have someone to talk to should she wake.
The intensive care unit only allowed two visitors at a time, so Jessie and James waited in the hallway while Ash and Misty went to see Brock.
He's not long for this world, Jessie warned before they went in. And he's in a coma.
Ash nodded soberly, and took Misty's hand as he entered Brock's room.
Brock was quite the horror to see, with all the machinery that was necessary to keep him alive. Ash resolved not to let anyone take Brock off of life support. He was a survivor, and he had proved it before.
How long are we going to wait here? Misty asked Ash, looking up at him sadly. Brock might be here a very long time.
As long as it takes, Ash clenched Misty's hand more tightly. As long as it takes.
They were about to lean into a kiss when Brock's heart monitor decided to beep.
And by God I hope it takes longer than this, Ash bit his lip.
I will make part 4 soon. I have inspiration now.