THE AFTERMATH OF THE AFTERLIFE
TODD
One wonders what Chrissy-boy pulls out of the bag this time, let's see…other anime references…check. Odds from D Marco about how many tissues used…check. Used rubber…oops, sorry wrong pocket.
O.K, just three more (and an epilogue) including this one. The next chapter (Tracey) will probably be 3 weeks away rather than my usual two weeks, because a) the first chapters of Anime and Video Game Survivor 2 and Poke-vivor premiere on the 20th September, and b) the day after that, I'm going away on bright sand and blue skies…O.K, it's just Skegness but it'll do…
Oh, and if I seem happy, it's because I've seen the Nadesico movie. J
O.K, as Mario might say, lets-a go!
WARNING: Like the Sabrina chapter, slight lemony scene in this one. Well, actually it's not really even lemony, but I'm putting the warning here in case people think it might be. *sigh*
* * * *
Sylia Snap…her hair of light blue takes after her mother you know. I spy Ash' two children in the comfort of their mother's arms.
And now, they will never have the same satisfaction from life…at least Sylia will be able to play with her dad.
All the tales, all the stories…they will never replace a loved one. Never.
And thus, my story begins.
* * * *
I was born Todd Marshall Snap, the only son of Frederic and Patricia Snap, two people born into high society from their flourishing art business. Yep, art. I was born into an artist's home.
Wonder how I fell in love with photography? Whilst the two weren't photographers, their famous drawings of wondrous pokemon in free bloom were legendary. Seeing my mother parade 'The Tale Of A Goldeen' when I was just 5 years old made me feel like a star.
Compared to a lot of people, I certainly had it easy as a child. Whilst not aristocratically wealthy like Giselle, I was certainly able to enjoy my childhood years a lot more than my wife did that's for sure.
I actually attending a prep school of own, the 'Mystic School of Humanity Arts', where Art and Photography were the two main majors. I started when I was seven before graduating at age 12.
However, to the shock of almost everyone who knew me, it was photography I took as my major rather than what everyone expected, art.
Whilst I loved my parents (and still do, they're still alive, god bless them), I certainly didn't want to be their shadows. I wanted to create beauty my way. My parents were fantastic in what they did, and whilst I was definitely following in their footsteps, it was in a new and creative way, something that two artists would certainly respect.
Photography became my fascination especially as when I took it, I didn't have a camera. Fortunately, my parents caved in (after a fashion) and took the best route of a young boys moaning. O.K, I was slightly spoiled but I was insistent of making this work.
It was something I would work on always. I became so intrigued with the idea of spying, hiding, trying to get the 'masterpiece' if you will. Even at a young age, I was hiding to catch the caterpie hanging from a tree, once, I caught one when it was evolving and sent that as a picture for my tutorial. It made them notice my skill quickly.
At 12, I was set for life…kind of. Most of the skills I learn were just in the basics and safety of the suburbs of Celadon and Fuschia, under supervisors' watchful eyes. I needed to be out there in the real world.
I first went into a course for a year to save me enough money to get myself some equipment. I was a junior photographer given a trial run because of my top grades and recommendations.
It worked as I was able to go into the free world. Again, watched, but it was a learning experience and a working experience which got me much further than other people.
Natural skill? I was always good at the hand to eye co-ordination games there, I was the goalkeeper for the soccer team, the 'Eye Of The Tiger' I was nicknamed after our 11th year victory.
I don't know, maybe some of those genes I got from my folks helped a bit, creative, artistic or just plain luck?
A combination of all three perhaps? Heck, you need a lot of luck in this business.
Anyway, by age 13, I had finally got my equipment, the motherload and began performing as a freelance photographer for anyone…but it was only for pokemon.
I guess that was one of my few problems. With people, whilst not problems, I never felt easy with. I guess watching the natural beauty of pokemon being free made me feel resenting to other humans who tried to capture them and make them battle?
I was a solo worker, and I was happy with that. References from my school and departments were damn near glowing. I certainly got people's attention with pictures of Eevees nuzzling and a Gyarados jumping from the sea.
However, on a recent assigment, I was told by what I thought was a dying couple who wanted me to capture a Pikachu on film. Of course, I was wrong both on capturing and on the dying couple…but my reputation obviously to them that I was simply a master capturer…of course on film.
And that's when and how I met Ash.
* * * *
Again, towards people who used pokemon for battle, I felt uneasy, however I had to follow them to 'capture' Pikachu as free as a bird. It was surprising for me to see a picture of a Pikachu belonging to a trainer, yet looked as free and happy as most of my other pictures.
Brock and Misty certainly appreciated my value for beauty, but Ash wasn't so sure. I always thought that people who caught pokemon didn't appreciate the true beauty of them. Ash saw it slightly different.
In a conversation to Brock and Misty that I overheard (after twice missing a Pikachu snapshot thanks to Ash), Ash said that I didn't understand the pokemon's feelings. I didn't know what he meant then, but I do now.
To take a picture of a pokemon in the free and wild is fine, but pokemon are living breathing creatures as well, with real hopes and feelings. Pikachu may have been nervous around me, but I was too idiotic to realise. Heck, even when a Team Rocket pitfall collapsed around them, my first instinct wasn't to save them, but to take a picture (or 6) of Pikachu.
Of course, the plan finally was unearthed so to speak, when Team Rocket showed themselves. When Ash was in danger, I think I finally realised that being a person is involved in realising other living beings feelings…as well as your own.
I sacrificed my camera to save Ash (and Ash being a bit hilarious to stop Team Rocket) and we finally found something in common.
We both love pokemon, but in different ways. Whilst our ways our different, our beliefs are the same.
It was the first time I had ever taken a picture of humans, but the value of friendship was priceless.
* * * *
I tagged along with Ash for a while, catching a few pictures of him in the Pokemon League Admission Exam (a hilarious take of him and Weezing, as well as Brock insisted on a Nurse Joy wallet size..^_^), and also to help rumble (and prove) a Breeding Centre scam.
After that, I felt that I needed to get back into the frame (yes, bad joke) of my work and head off to the harder areas to 'capture' more difficult pokemon.
It was a challenge like what Ash was setting out to do, and it was a challenge I was hoping to set out and complete.
* * * *
The work was hard, let's admit it.
I had to be in good shape to scale the mountains, go across bridges and mud pits, I can't remember the amount of times I've had to hire equipment out, whether to keep warm or just to survive. I knew how to cook fortunately which help me survive in the wild, and by now I was getting good at hiding myself.
I always had the element of surprise on my side, and my work was becoming more and more demanding for me as a free agent if you will, but it was something that I always dreamed of.
Then the call came.
I was in the Pokemon Centre, drinking a cup of cocoa, when Nurse Joy came up to me.
"You're Todd Snap right?" Nurse Joy said.
"Er…yes ma'am." I said, always a bit nervous around the Joys, to this day, I can't understand the Joy or Jenny gene.
"I have a phone call, from a….well…it's…Lou Pert Dermoc." She said, whispering.
Lou Pert Dermoc?
The head of the Xebox Media National. Built around it's media empire, it is not only a famous television company in the terms of the shows and films it creates and broadcasts, but also adds into the field of newspapers, games, animation and books.
So why would this famous guy be calling me…
…O.K, when I answered it, it was a stupid question, but I was still expecting it to be a hoax or a prank call or something.
However…
"Hello?"
"Ah, this wouldn't be the famous freelance photographer Todd Snap I would be speaking to would it?" A businessman voice to say the least.
"Speaking."
"Well…it's taken a long time to catch up to you, you are never in one place you knoe? However, we've finally caught up to you…so let's not beat around the bush."
Uh oh. What was this…
"You can answer as soon or as late as possible, but we would like you to become our Pokemon Correspondant for our newspaper The Xerex Times. A real job young sir."
I think in times like this all you can do is say 'Wow.' I didn't, but the thought had crossed my mind.
"Well, I don't know what to say…"
"Details of the job are coming via vidiprinter. Look at the details and call me back 6pm sharp. A simple yes or no. If it's yes, a helicopter will come over by 8 and we'll pick you up and sign a contract. We're impressed by you sir, maybe this is the start of a lifetime for you. Good day."
Just like that he was gone.
I had to pinch myself. It seemed like a dream, it was too quick, poof, gone in thin air.
But the printer was buzzing.
Terms of contract;
1,000 to 1,500 per week, for regular column in popular newspaper. Work has to be to near perfection though. Work involves photography around living pokemon creatures, to create them on the paper as works of art. To see them in their free nature…"
I kept reading it, and wondered what was going on. This was a dream come true, the job was perfect for me…
…but I liked my freedom. The work of a freelance photographer was made to working in my own time, not someone elses. However, I had to admit the money was tempting.
Wealth vs. freedom…I spent the next two hours working the answer to that.
*RING*
"Hello?"
"Have you decided?"
I breathed in and out…this was the biggest decision I would have to make.
And…
"I accept the position."
"Thank you."
* * * *
It was tough, but eventually the decision came to me was for money. I did need it and in this type of world, opportunities like this were rare. So I had to go for it.
And heck, for over 2 years, I certainly stuck with it until…
O.K, before I get onto the real stories, let's just say I didn't know what I was getting myself into. The work did limit my creative control definitely, and as it turned the work didn't simply revolving around pokemon photography. It was pokemon period.
That meant other areas, such as gym leading, circus training and in my wife's case, acting, I had to be there to get the best shots of the best human/pokemon combos of all. (Shame I never got to see Ash until…)
The smile on my face when I took the pictures had become slightly tainted, and deadlines were a nightmare. Once, I had all 4 of my assistants become sick on a deadline, and to help, when 3 guys came into my office to bring me lunch, I asked them desperately for help (paid of course). Three pairs on untrained hands were better than no pairs of hands at all. I barely made the deadline and certainly wasn't flavour of the month in the boss' book. Not my fault, but I suppose when you run a multi-million empire, you can probably do almost what you want and get away with it.
So, I worked at this environment for 2 years. Certainly various things made it more interesting, I did at least get to see some decent pokemon/human relationships and I could still work at what I did…and of course, I met my wife during this as well, but at the time, it was just a quick hello and impressive work kind of deal.
However….
As the 2 years were coming and going, and whilst my account was getting up, my body was slowly getting it's toll on late nights and lack of sleep, work ethic was down and I was always the hardest worker there….and yet, I never got a raise, heck, never even got a promotion. Forget head photographer, I should have been grateful for being there.
Excuse me, who chased who here?
Anyway…at one point, I finally snapped.
* * * *
"But you're our main photographer!" Damien, (head photographer) wasn't too pleased about me doing something normal, like go on a month's leave for vacation. After all, he took one every two weeks.
"Sorry, my mind has been made up. I haven't had a break since I started here and I need a rest. You'll just have to find someone else to do that column for the month, heck, do it yourself. Go on, see what it's like." I was biting my tongue to hide the sarcasm in my voice, before I decided to really rip into him, I left with a smile on my face.
Whilst no-one was too pleased with my leaving, I knew I deserved it.
What I didn't know was that it was the last time I would see them.
* * * *
What's that? Is that an Ash-tachi I see before me?
Yes, I found my old friends as I was finally relaxing, doing the camerawork of old, enjoying myself. O.K, you may say I was still working, but this was relaxing for me, doing it just for fun. No deadlines, no pressures, just all the time in the world.
Getting a picture of a Sunflora for an old couple was fine, but I had a purpose in the mountains.
To snap a picture of Articuno, the legendary ice bird pokemon which has said to have resided her. Ash as hot-headed as ever, decided to help me…and as always, Team Rocket were hounding the poor chap.
It was tiring journey, but the light of Articuno brought me more hope…and these pictures would be all mine, no need for Dermoc to get a real ego boost.
However, it wasn't enough.
After Ash and co left me, I decided to remain to see if I could get more pictures. I wasn't sure how much of Articuno I got, and in this weather, it was hard to see anything anyway.
I got my survival equipment out, wondering why I was spending my remaining two weeks or so in a mountain, freezing.
One, it was something I wanted to do.
Two, expected the unexpected.
* * * *
As I was waiting along a path for Articuno, I heard some voices. That was strange…there was certainly more than one…could they be searching for Articuno as well?
I heard the familiar wheel of a camera. Maybe I was right…
I quickly looked outside and saw what appeared to be some sort of crew, with some fat man barking out orders.
Then the snow began to fall. That meant seeing things made it more difficult. And the snow was building.
My eyesight was good but not immune to everything. I couldn't see what was going on…but then I heard it.
Uh oh.
Avalanche.
The snow came piling down and I escaped back into the cave which had been my home. I guess sometimes I wished I was a pokemon trainer just for the company. I never told him this, but I was so envious of Ash being so carefree and to have such good friends with him.
However, I didn't realise then that my envy was about to become for nothing.
I distinctly heard something crash near the cave, and it didn't feel like a tree or something.
It felt like a human body. I felt sick, whoever it was could be dead for all I know.
Recklessness came before common sense (I call it the Ash Syndrome) and I rushed outside as the avalanche came to a still.
Suddenly, a white light came before me. I saw this light before. Articuno.
I didn't know this then, but the light from Articuno was actually guiding me…to a new stage of life.
The light shone towards a shallow area…and I saw a piece of rope hanging. I dug quickly…
Oh my god.
I had found a girl buried underneath it. The scary thing was that this was no ordinary girl.
This was a girl who has recently come into fame, but not necessarily fortune. What was she doing here?
I began to panic…where's a calm father figure when you need one?
Calm down Snap. Calm down…
I quickly checked her pulse. She was freezing to death…but it was there. I gently lifted her up, despite the heavy weight she was (O.K, so it was actually the snow and her heavy clothes and equipment that burdened me, but it's always a chance to get a free shot at her, the problem is she usually get 10 in return…) and walked back to my 'hideout.'
I looked at her face as I got there…peaceful, and the snow glistening around her…I already knew she was cute, but she looked like an angel sleeping there.
The girl was as you know, Duplica Imite, my future wife. I had met her a couple of times before when she was just trying to make ends meet. However, she had quickly got into the big time by winning the Pokemon Acting Contest.
However, I had no time to stand and stare. I had to warm her up.
I got my sleeping bag and gulped. This seemed stupid, but I had to get her out of those wet clothes otherwise she would freeze. I closed my eyes, fortunately, I'm not a total idiot, and managed to figure out where each bits of her clothes were. I didn't go too far of course…and managed to get her in the sleeping bag.
Then I resumed my blushing, except tenfold.
I sighed. Time to start a fire…
* * * *
I was wondering what she was doing here, I just hoped she was O.K. The fire escalated into the cave, and slowly I heard movement.
I smiled, and picked up the cup of hot chocolate I was saving for her and put it in front of her. I was still nervous though, especially when she finds out…
She began to take in her surroundings. I had some of my 'work' out on display. It was like a form of inspiration for me, just like it was for my family and their artwork. The girl sat up, as I nervously said…
"Um…you awake miss?"
I desperately tried to hide my blush. I didn't exactly have a crush on her, but god, she was cute…it was kind of a 'must resist' kind of thing…and trust me, it was hard to do.
"Yes sir, thank you…did you…"
Her voice was kind of like a relief for me. That meant she was fine and well, I had done the right thing.
That still didn't stop the red in my cheeks, and I think it was 40% from the heat and 60% from…
"Yes…I was looking for a legendary pokemon when I saw a white light. I decided to follow it…and I found you unconscious there. I…well…I panicked a bit, but I calmed down and carried you back to my temporary home….er…"
It was only a half-lie. Yes, my nervousness was there, and Articuno did show it's presence to me, but I didn't deliberately search for it, it was there for me.
When I saw her pick up the drink, it was O.K to see that she was fine. She thanked me as I finally calmed down and began to talk to her without stuttering
"It's O.K Miss Imite." She immediately smiled. I wonder why…
"I knew it! You're the guy who was at the contest…you've seen me perform before haven't you?"
I was a bit stunned…she has remembered me?
"Yes…I'm Todd Snap…" I said after recovering my voice.
She then explained that I was kinda famous of course from the Aerodactyl incident. I guess she wasn't as dense as Ash then…
Then, indecent exposure one. She panicked that her pokemon were back at camp, and she tried to get up…and I tried not to get a nosebleed.
Of course, the reaction was…
"EEEKK…you pervert!"
Yep. That reaction. I turned around, back to panicky mode and honestly said…
"I'M SORRY…I just didn't want you dying, so I…well, I took your clothes off…I BLINDFOLDED MYSELF, GOD'S HONEST TRUTH…"
It was kind of a condition reflex, but I was surprised when she didn't try to kill me.
Most girls would have been pissed beyond belief, even if it was trying to save their life…(this is known as the Miaka syndrome…^_^)
Already I could see this one was a little different from the rest.
"….I'll let you live young one…for now."
O.K, a lot different. But I couldn't help but laugh, she had a case of the sniffles after that routine, and it didn't come out the way she expected. I asked that her clothes were almost dry and asked about her pack. She explained to me that she was working as a stuntgirl, and obviously, the avalanche kinda screwed things up. A few seconds silence and she was looking round at my 'art' and was smiling.
"You're pretty good you know. I mean, all these pictures…" I guess we were both artists in different ways, and it wasn't just her being impressed with me.
"You are as well…you're pretty famous around now, it's almost like a romance tale, orphan girl grows up to future star." That was true, she was kind of a semi-legend, from rags to riches, it was almost a Pokewood story.
"So, you looking for Articuno?" She said. I nodded.
"Yeah…I stayed behind from a few friends of mine when they continued on a journey to Johto…I've managed to take a couple of long range shots, but I want to get a close up one…"
And then…
"Do you know Ash Ketchum?"
Well, well…this was unexpected. We got into a little friendly banter, and eventually Duplica decided to stay here to talk. I was surprised that she didn't want to let the crew down there know she was alright, but it soon became obvious that she didn't really want to return soon.
Why does that remind me of something…
…like my own life…
However, for tonight at least, I was enjoying a start of a long journey for two people. It might have been around a small fire in an ice cave with a cup of hot chocolate, but it was a start.
* * * *
The talk between the photographer and the actress was something else. I've had conversations with people before, my parents, my old classmates, Ash-tachi, but this was something that I never really experienced. Life stories as I talked about my past and our lives…although I noticed that whenever I tried to talk to her about her childhood, she somehow manage to diverse the subject.
But then…
"…it was so horrible…"
She let it all out. All the tension, pain and suffering she had when she was a mere child, blurting it out to a stranger. She was crying and I had to take her into my arms a couple of times (clothed of course…), although I wasn't exactly experienced in these situations, I knew when someone needed a helping hand.
Her little cry made her feel a bit better as we managed to talk on, and seeing her get happier as we talked about Ash and company. Suddenly, from out of nowhere…
We started to talk about our loneliness, a subject neither of us liked, but both of us admitted to. I found it hard that this excitable cheerful girl actually had a past rivalling a Team Rocket orphanage and a solo life resulting just to make ends meet.
"I guess…I don't even have the luxury of owning a pokemon. I love meeting them when I take their pictures, but I don't like them posing, rather have them working in their own natural habitat. I didn't really have many human friends until I met Ash and company."
I said that as she agreed me. I have no idea why I said the next thing….
"After that, I decided to keep in human contact as well as pokemon. Watching pokemon was still my main objective, but every now and then, there is a person which I felt would become something special. For instance…you."
Insert red face and look of surprise on the girl's face.
"Huh?"
I was just as embarrassed but I couldn't back out. I coughed and continued.
"Well…I saw that first performance back then before you got that contract…you just…shone out…it was like a bright star being born…that's why I wanted the Performance Arts job. As well as watching pokemon, I felt sure that I would see you again…I wanted to see if you would become the success I thought you would be…"
"Aw…Todd that's so sweet…"
Sweet? I've never been called that in my life….suddenly, I felt a warmth near me. She had laid her head on my shoulder. My heart was beating faster than a pair of bongo drums.
I wrapped my arm around her, slowly but surely, but I felt her warmth cascading around me. She didn't move or budge, just remained like that.
I suddenly realised that she'd fallen to sleep. How long had it been since we were talking…
…but I didn't mind. She felt like a part of me already, and I only met her because of a chance bit of luck. However, in this icy cave, I think we needed to be part of each other.
For this night at least, we wouldn't be cold.
* * * *
For 2 days. 2 days we were like this, afraid to go outside because of the insistent snow…Duplica was worried about her pokemon, whilst I hadn't really got the most out of my purpose, to catch Articuno on film. (Although being with a girl in a remote place would count as a good reason to be happy on vacation…)
Suddenly, it was there.
The light.
Our openness towards each other had seemed to have been another blessing from the gods, and now they were rewarding us.
Articuno?
In one hand I whipped out my camera, and in the other, without thinking, I grabbed Duplica's hand. Despite the rushing movement, she didn't resist. That surprised me but hey, I think more things have surprised me now than they ever will.
Duplica said this when we were married. Maybe it was destiny…this light was a sign…that we were to be together.
At that moment, I thought it was a chance to snap Articuno.
And…
Yes, our blessing was given as we stared in awe of the ice legendary. It almost seemed to nod at us to say that you have permission to be in my pressence. Both of bowed though, out of respect.
I took one picture close up of it's majestic wings. One that would go in my collection rather than for work. I smiled…
…and then couldn't see a thing. Duplica said it was Articuno's Mist attack…aside from her acting, to say she was a good pokemon trainer was like saying Ash has a bottomless pit for a stomach.
As the mist cleared though, Duplica couldn't hide the grin as two bundles of bouncing blobs attached themselves into her arms.
"DITTO! MINIDIT!" Her two dittos were hugged by the trainer, as I smiled. That smile of hers looked so cute…
Hey what was I thinking? I guess the snow had got to me.
However, not soon after, I found out that not all the reunions would get that joyous.
We were waiting for you, and you didn't show up…you know how much time we've lost in losing scenes because we couldn't find another stuntwoman?"
For Kami sake, not even a 'how are you?' I saw one person seem to care for her as a blanket was draped over her as I asked if that was her life. Sadly, it was.
I was very angry to say the least. She had nearly died, and yet all they cared about was how she could make someone else look good on the screen. I am normally a patient man, but this wasn't right…
However, she had an ace up her sleeve that I wasn't aware of…or a contract in this case. Her evil little smile meant that she was plotting something. (She has two smiles, her cute one and her evil one – the evil one means she is thinking, and lo behold the agony she can inflict on the receiving end…)
"Excuse me Jack?" she said.
"I'd like to state that in point 103 of my contract, the actor or actress chosen for the Guild of Performing Arts has the right to refuse a role to him or her if the subject is treated in ways that command a lack of respect from the current employer."
Stunned….yep. I was as well. I think everyone underestimated her intelligence.
"So, on behalf of myself and the Guild of Performance Arts, I'd like to state that Mr Spielbunks attempts to ignore my well being is to quote 'utter bullshit.'"
I tried hard to hold my laugh and managed it…barely.
"So I hereby remove myself from my project, and instead Jack, I'd like to concerntrate on more important matters instead of being part of another Spielbunk flop, like being part of the opening Johto ceremonies if that is O.K!"
Johto ceremonies? I didn't know that…but suddenly she turned and looked at me.
"I'm sure you recognise this young man, Todd Snap is a very famous young photographer with a high reputation. I advise he becomes my personal safeguard and confidant towards my performances. He has the right to continue with his own projects, but I can ask him to help as a cameraman towards my performances if I do so…"
I was stunned. She trusted me that much…but wait, I already have a job…although she did she say I could continue…wait, she's not the boss of me…but she wants me to…not as a colleague…
"Imite-chan, I'm not so sure.."
Her wink stopped me.. "Don't worry."
…not a colleague…a friend.
I smiled."Miss Imite, it would be my pleasure and honour." The two of us bowed to each other in respect and in friendship. I think the director, Speilbunk tried to argue his case, but Duplica's manager Jack managed to shut him up quick.
She linked an arm around mine as I tried hard not to blush…and wonder how I'm gonna explain to the boss that I'm not coming back.
One look at that smile answered all my questions.
I didn't need to spell it out…
I wanted to be with her.
* * * *
It's interesting what a new lease of life can do to a person. Friendship, companionship, love…it makes a difference.
I didn't care what the people of work said about me or what they thought about me. I'd saved plenty of money to survive and I have my freedom again. Besides, they asked me, not the other way round, I didn't think I owed them anything.
As for me and Duplica…well, one moment I remember the best was when I decided to sleep outside rather in the hotel that Jack (Duplica's boss) had set for us. I still worked independently, however we kept in touch so I could be by her…I mean their side as soon as possible.
This night, Duplica joined me…and like the last time that we were 'camping' (although not exactly by choice), we were talking the night long…before work finally took it's toll on me and I faded into unconsciousness.
The next morning, my eyes were open…and I felt something warm round me. I also heard a light snoring…
And curled up on my shoulder like it was the most comfortable thing in the world was Duplica, snug as a bug.
I swear I have never been so red in all my life. If a Tauros came passing by, it probably would have took me by the horns. I have never been so still in my life though…
…watching her sleep was like watching an angel.
* * * *
My work took me many places around, and with my reputation on the up, especially as a free role, it was with great pleasure that I was snapped up (no pun intended) to be a photographer at the Johto League ceremonies and championships.
At the same token, Duplica was chosen to be a performer for the opening ceremonies. Coincidence? Nah.
However, there was a time where we were having trouble speaking to each other, because of a slight embarrassing moment that I think she told you well. It involved me clutching her hand and us well….
….I nearly kissed her, but Jack interrupted us.
I was very embarrassed and to be honest, it was hard to even look at her face after that. I was so embarrassed, I didn't know what came over me.
Luckily, a very dense boy and his friends would sort that out…
* * * *
"Hey…is that…HEY! YOU GUYS!"
Duplica and I saw the smiles of three certain stooges known as Ash, Misty and Brock. The three looked fit and well, Ash looking a bit older…wiser that remained to be seen.
We forgot our momentary troubles to enjoy meeting with our old friends. Duplica immediately hugged like they were sisters or something as I welcomed the two boys into our now getting large group.
I suddenly felt a slight bit of…jealously? Well, Duplica did say that she did like Ash and Brock a lot, and I saw her blush at Brock. Wait…why would I be…
Suddenly, I noticed (via my trained eye) the clutch of hands from Ash and Misty. They finally…
"Ah, don't worry Ashy-boy. I'm not going to beat your butt into oblivion…I'm here as part of the opening ceremony after winning the Pokemon Talent Contest."
Heh, say what you want about her, she can break any tension you want. However, I still couldn't look at her, part embarrassment, and maybe part jealously. It was still great though to see everyone again.
And then, the matchmaker spoke.
"So how did you two meet?"
On instinct, I went red. But also on instinct, Misty took it the wrong way.
"Oh…I see…" she said slyly.
"Um…IT'S NOT WHAT YOU THINK!"
Yes, it was me…but it was her as well. O.K, that was weird…maybe she was feeling as bad as I was…but then of all people, Ash said something sensible.
"Oh…sure it isn't." Ash added. "Trust me…I know how you feel."
That clinched it. I smiled at Misty. I always had a feeling about those two, whether out of hate or love, those two had a bond that would be unbreakable.
Still, I was glad it was the latter rather than the former.
I felt a very slight twinge in my heart, but I was happy that Misty had found her true love at last. Could the same thing be for me….
"Hey guys, meet us a bit later in the café, we need to register up front O.K?" Ash said as I saw Misty hold his hand slyly again.
Suddenly, I realised being embarrassed in front of my friends was stupid. I think Duplica thought the same thing…
"You feeling better?" she said.
It was my fault, why should I be down…
"I'm…I'm sorry about…" I started, but that smile stopped me in my tracks again.
"Hey, we've got better things to do now. One moment of embarrassment isn't going to kill you."
She linked arms with me and literaly dragged me away. I gulped.
Uh oh, the evil glint in her eye….I think Misty had this glint a couple of times as well, it only meant…
"We're going to find some new clothes which you're going to pay for as an apology."
It's official, the cute girls are always the evil ones. And that was one of Ash' sayings , not mine. Although both Misty and Duplica liked to beat us up about it anyway…
* * * *
When the ceremony came up, I had the best seat in the house. Viewing the work of pokemon in this environment is one of the highlights of any true photographer's experience and life…and I was ready to take up the challenge.
The release of a 100 pidgeys for a new beginning and I got it in the centre, as the ceremony continues, the circus range of Dodrios, Donphans, Mr. Mimes…it was a splendour to behold.
When Duplica entered, it was like a new story.
She had dressed like a gymnast, which put my heart into overdrive. I had to concerntrate on the pokemon, so her work into the dittos were the main things and I managed to do that.
However, her final pose when her dittos when into her arms (to a standing ovation), I had to take one of her with my small camera, which I managed to get away with.
As it finished, I left backstage, ready to greet her…my heart still pounding.
I had to see her, I had decided now.
As she got back into her dressing room, I was waiting for her inside. I got a spare key from her beforehand as we were planning to leave together…however, I didn't expect here where I would…
When she came back, and wondered why I was here, I said…
"I said before, when you perform, I couldn't keep my eyes off you. You were spectacular."
I was nervous as I had ever been, but this was a good kind of nervous, like this was something you wanted to get off her chest. This time, I wasn't stopping.
"You are talented, stunning, an excellent pokemon trainer, beautiful, and the most cheerful, kind soul I've ever met."
The red on her cheeks showed me something, and it wasn't the redness of all the energy she spent out there.
"Todd…I…" I think she was as stunned as I was, embarrassed about what I said. Brock called us 'the odd couple' because she was energetic and outgoing, and I was shy and reserved. However, today, I was anything but.
I put a hand to her cheek. She took it gently and put it on her heart. The beating was one of life…one of purity…
…one of love.
She kissed me on the lips, neither of us wanting to let go, as I knew there was no going back. I don't think we cared about anything else at that moment, the whole world might have caved in, and I wouldn't have cared.
This was a moment I was going to treasure for the rest of my life….
"Hey, Miss Imite, are you there? Can we have a word?"
…and my fellow paparazzi were damn close to ruining it.
But this was our moment…nothing was going to ruin it.
I let go, feeling through her long hair, let out for the performance, making her look much older than she really was. And then…
"You made me find my true self Imite-chan. I…I think I'm in love with you."
There a confession.
We kissed one more time (which lasted a bit longer than before) before holding each others hands, and in a trademark Duplica way, simply opened the door to a gasp of stunned reporter and said…
"So, anything you want to ask?"
* * * *
The next few months of my life were hectic. I was now part of the company that Duplica worked for thanks to Jack, and was allowed to continue my work as a freelance photographer with the freedom of the world. My snaps at the Johto tournament were outstanding according to a few certain newspapers and my workload tripled after the Johto tournament. Duplica was just as busy in a similar story, after her performance, from her small time roles, she finally hit the big time.
It was hard juggling work with a romance, but the fact that both of us could talk to people about what we do rather than what the other do (neither of us were on the take for the other). However, many times we could work together in some of Duplica's more pokemon oriented movies.
Success came well for both of us, and throughout the years, our lives became less hectic and more enjoyable.
And then, the 'm' work sprang up.
Again, Ash was the one who exclaimed it, as the lad had just got engaged to Misty, and wondered when I was going to pop the question.
And of all people, it was him who picked out the ring. Yes, it sounds silly, but he had done this before of course for Misty, so maybe he actually did know a little something about it.
And there…
"What about that one?" Ash smiled.
I was stunned. "I think it matches…" he started.
The colour of her eyes. A brilliant sapphire, it was almost like I had been destined for it. The shop, one of Ash' favourite places (and high in demand for the Pokemon League) forked out the ring, I forked out the cash…
….now the hardest part.
Actually, it wasn't bad. I proposed during a film festival. She was only 18, but I had been waiting for 5 years already, I didn't want to wait any longer.
And after I proposed at age 20, it seemed she didn't either.
It may have been out of the blue for her, but she accepted in a typical (well, for her) way, happy beyond belief.
Life was working out at last.
* * * *
My family had since retired from their business and were living comfortably, and happy hearing about their son's and his upcoming marriage. It was great that they loved Duplica as well, and I'm happy that they are with me today as well on this terrible day, whilst not knowing Ash well, they still wanted to pay their respects to this great man.
When Misty and Ash got married, it was a near royal rumble to see who would be best man and bridesmaid, I think I got in a good left jab on Richie, but that was it. Just kidding…Misty can tell you better I think.
Our marriage was held at a beauty ceremony on Duplica's old hunting grounds, the Imite House in Fuschia. It was done beautifully like a chapel, as Duplica said that this was a memory of her past, and the last step to her future…a tribute to her late guardian Mary.
Seeing her there, pure as the snow, made my heart jump. Fortunately, Ash's elbow slammed it back down…
First step was getting a good job. Done that. Second, getting a good wife. Done. Final step…
* * * *
Misty had always said that Duplica would be a good mother. Our careers were hard, but she wanted to have a child.
It's hard being here today aside from Misty of course to be the only couple to be with a child, and seeing everyone so upset…
However, that night…
*NOTE – THIS NOT REALLY A LEMON SCENE SO DON'T WORRY, BUT JUST IN CASE ANYONE MAY FEEL THIS IS A BIT RISQUE, DON'T SAY I DIDN'T WARN YOU…*
I was nervous, let's admit it, you would be too, this was a big step, especially for two young people in our stage of our careers…
…so on this night, why the heck when Duplica came out only decked in a towel did I fall over and knock a lamp over?
"Todd! Why are you being so silly on a night like this?" she cussed. "When I said turn the light off I didn't mean it like that…"
I tell you she is evil.
Anyway, after a fumbling with the lights (which I accidently turned the radio on, getting me another cursing), we finally made it to the bed. For Duplica, she didn't seem nervous, even when the towel came off…I think then I realised what an angel I had claimed.
I noticed she was a bit wet…no not that way…she had just come from the shower and I was being a bit over-protective and wanted her to dry herself, but she said it was a routine she always took…especially after her experiences with those bastards she called a family.
I grabbed my wife as she smiled at me tenderly. I didn't want to let go of this cherub, I felt like she couldn't get away…
…I didn't want to let go.
We kissed…and the start of a new life began…
* * * *
I am often asked about fatherhood. Aside from Ash, I was the only dad of almost all the Pokemon group with young children.
When I found out Duplica was pregnant, I was ecstatic. O.K, so I got a lot of teasing from Ash and Misty, but hey, that was to be expected.
I think again I played the role of over-protective husband a bit, but I didn't think Dup minded being fussed over now. Her career was strengthening and she deserved this chance to have a delayed time off. Neither of us needed any more money, already we were set for life even with a child on the way.
9 months later…
"Damn I'm late!"
I got an emergency call that my wife was in labour. She was at Blackthorn Hospital as I rushed as fast as I could on a rented scooter and hurried as fast as I bloody well could…
After a million and one questions at the main desk, I managed to find Duplica's ward.
And just came in to see the baby being delivered…
…and I collapsed.
O.K, if Duplica had a camera I think that would have been in the calendar, but hey, she's got her memory to embarrass me with for later years.
When I recovered, I saw a sleeping child cuddling with my wife…the two most beautiful and cherished people in my life.
I saw my child's tiny face, eyes closed peacefully, slight strings of lightly coloured hair. It was a girl.
My baby girl.
"Todd, this is Sylia. Sylia Snap." My tired but happy wife said to me.
Sylia was named after Sylia Stingray, a well renowned scientist that Duplica had compared her own child life to. Sylia had gone through hell because of a parent experimentation on her mind, and because of it, she eventually suffered death from insistent migranes. However, I'm sure the name was ironic, as Duplica certainly wasn't going to let the same hell that bestowed her towards our daughter.
"Can…I hold…her?" I barely whispered.
Duplica smiled. "Sure…"
I was gently handed my daughter. It was like holding something so fragile, you couldn't drop it, you were scared of holding yet, yet you couldn't turn away. She looks so angelic sleeping there…
I cuddled it gently. Fatherhood had begun…and I was so happy.
For the next year, Duplica had her time off whilst I continued my work, but as soon as I was finished, I came back to spend quality time. I loved my family, and Sylia was as good as gold. She hardly cried, probably inherited her mother's nature now and yes, we spoiled her rotten, but we didn't care. We loved our family.
I loved my family.
* * * *
TEAM ROCKET FALL: TODD'S POV
To talk about the fall of Team Rocket was an interesting topic to say the least. You see, I was there to be a scout, and was also there to see the bloody aftermath of a vengeful wife.
This was the only time that we actually needed a babysister to look after our growing daughter. I remember Duplica and I giving her a kiss on the cheek as she was sleeping, before holding hands to leave.
Duplica had plenty of motivation. Her parents were part of Team Rocket, and thanks to old foes, now comrades Jessie and James, her real name was discovered.
I had no idea that Duplica wasn't her real name. However, it's still kept, she wants nothing to do with that family anymore.
Myself…I was simply called as one of Ash' closest allies. Team Rocket didn't do anything personal to me, but I can always remember Butch and Cassidy trapping those pokemon inside those breeding centre, trapping them like freaks.
That memory alone was enough to make my blood boil.
I along with Tracey and of all people, the Priestess of Shamuti, were at the Saffron Base. I had infiltrated the base, and was taking a few snap shots of results of experimentation.
The base was then attacked as I tried to get out of there, but I slipped.
"ARRRGGGHHH!"
A melting force hit my shoulder and I screamed in agony. I saw a soldier coming to me and ready to end my life…
"COVER YOUR EARS!" A voice, Tracey called.
I had no time to think, I just did it.
What happened was Melody played a tune on her famous ocarina which ripped apart the inside of the attackers…the pain in my shoulder was blindsiding, but I held on..
..and felt a touch on my other shoulder.
"Hey, you O.K?" The priestess said.
"I…gu-ess…"
I passed out…
* * * *
I woke up, bare chested in a small hut with bandages wrapped around my shoulder. There were many other wounded there as well…but I felt fairly good…
"Don't worry, you were healed."
The watcher Tracey was there, as he smiled.
He explained then that the priestess Melody, had used a tune which could use her own life force and enter other people to heal them. However, she also used a tune when people escaped to lose their memory, she was apparently undercover…
…however I passed out before she used the tune, so I remembered her clearly.
After about 10 different vicious and sadistic threats from Tracey, I was convinced not to reveal what I knew.
And then I remembered.
"Damn, we'd better get to Viridian!"
Tracey nodded, as he and myself…and the person I'm not supposed to know about…headed for Viridian City.
* * * *
The battle was getting intense, and I know that it was coming to a close.
However, amongst all the cheering, healing and crying…I couldn't see her.
Where was my wife?
Without anyone noticing (except maybe Melody) I scuttled to the south side of the Team Rocket building and began to infiltrate this base.
But this time it wasn't out of necessity, it was out of love.
I wormed my way through a ventilation duct….and then…
"No guys, this is my fight. Just make sure no-one interrupts us O.K?"
I recognised that voice. I looked out of the nearest grate, and saw a very hyped up angry girl warning her now 6 dittos to stay out of…her fight?
I quickly glanced to the right to see who she was…
That…bastard…it had to be…
People have wondered why I never teased the girl as much as I did. What was about to happen was the reason.
She may be the most cheerful girl on the planet, however, deep inside, her hatred for her parents was unimaginable. And as I found out sometimes when I said the wrong comment, she was vicious. Her skills in dance and martial arts were scary, and this time, she had a reason to use them for a reason other than using them in a stunt or in a performance.
When his body hit a console, I looked at her face. A mask of hatred and determination.
This wasn't the girl I fell in love with.
This was wrong. She shouldn't be like this.
She then kicked him in the groin, I winced. This was vicious to a V. I could understand her hatred, but this wasn't her. This was Anna Maxwell fighting, not Duplica Imite.
Every punch, strike and remark from Duplica was like a dagger to everything I knew she was.
As I glanced at his face, I was further scared at the bloody mess it was. He deserved it, but the scary thing was Duplica wasn't stopping. A spinning roundhouse to the face sent him into another console. He was close to unconsciousness now, but she wasn't finished. The years of torment, pain, rage and the death of her mentor were finally being unleashed. Had she hidden it throughout all these years?
He finally passed out but Duplica added more pain, crushing his rib. She would kill him if something didn't stop him.
I jumped from the sky.
She jumped and plunged her knees into his chest, her fist ready to end his life….
"DUPLICA, STOP!"
My voice stopped her, as her fist hit the floor as she started to cry, deep breaths, she was unable to stop herself…
"It's over. You've won."
I wasn't talking about the fight, I was talking about herself.
"I almost…killed him…If I had…would I have been like them?"
I did the only thing I could do and that was to hug her, console her, comfort her. I said in my proudest voice…
"No. You're nothing like them. You stopped the deathblow, you had control. I'm proud of you Duplica."
The two of us eventually managed to calm down as Duplica stopped to look once more at her unconscious mother and half-dead father.
And with that, we walked out of there, smiling, as her family of dittos and her husband greeted a parade of Officer Jennies wondering what the heck was going on….
"They're all yours officer."
I dunno if they prove that all the damage was caused by a young woman and her dittos, but right there, aside from the blood and bodies…
…it was almost like a true family.
And now, it was time to go see the final piece…
* * * *
After congratulations from Ash and everyone (and of course, the usual flirting between Ash and Duplica), we simply went home. Tired, exhausted but proud.
We entered the room as we thanked the babysister and paid her…
…and saw Sylia just waking up.
"Dad-dy?"
A 2 year old saying Daddy is like a proud moment being relived over again. I went over and picked my daughter up and hugged her.
"Y-ees…" My tears were flowing.
"I've been..good girl…" Sylia said.
I hugged her, as the tears came down. Duplica joined the family hug.
At last…I was here, I was home.
I was happy.
* * * *
Today, Ash isn't able to see how happy we are. This great man, taken from us way, way too early.
Like Duplica, he was my first true friend. My parents now have Sylia with them as whilst maybe not understanding everything, was still sad. She loved her uncle Ashy as she always called him (like mother, like daughter) and now…
…I'll never see him again.
I looked at my gift to Ash.
"I don't normally take pictures of humans…but this time, I'll make an exception! I want to remember my new friends!"
The photo of myself, with Ash-tachi, I had kept it all these years….
…now was time to let go.
"Ash…now I'll always be with you…"
I left it in the coffin as I wiped off the last remaining tears from my face. I saw Misty and her children, Melody and Tracey…everyone who knew Ash was here.
I turned one more time before heading away.
"Goodbye…my friend…"
* * * *
It's may not be a goodbye for me. His spirit is in tune with the world of pokemon. He was a true find young Waterflower.
I had always figured that humans enslaved Pokemon with their 'training' and such. I was created by humans, but never wished to be enslaved by them.
My power was unbreakable, by human or pokemon. He found out that way as did his wife and friend. My clones, my pokemon, their pokemon…a battle to the death.
And the one known as the Chosen One by Lugia, alone changed me.
Such a noble sacrifice, he actually died for his Pokemon…for all Pokemon.
A pure heart such as that changed me. There are those who wish to see us as what we are…living creatures that can be befriended.
Even after I wiped his memory, destiny still followed us in each others path.
My army of clones wished to live in peace, yet the one known as Giovanni wished to control me again.
And he almost did…if not for the one known as Ash Ketchum. He saved me…healed me…saw me as more important than anything else.
This time, I let him and his friends, along with those two from Team Rocket…heh, they weren't bad people either, and my counterpart always has a fondness for them as well…
…this time, they had their memories intact, whilst Giovanni, that girl Domino, and the rest of his grunts wondered what they were doing here.
For 12 years, we've lived in peace, and I've never been inclined to see anything over.
Until now.
The balance of power changed when Ash Ketchum's spirit was sent to the heavens. However, his spirit will always be in me.
Mew!
Forgive me…always be in us.
Farewell Ash Ketchum. Mew and Mewtwo will remember you…always.
* * * *
Another one down…just a bit more now guys. However, due to me having a deserved break next week, means that the next chapter will be done in three weeks rather than 2 as normal. However, they will be done, yaksoku!
Next chapter:
The fourth member of the Ash-tachi. First an ordinary watcher seeking a dream, to one of the most respective people on the world. From Pinkin Island to the Archipelagos of the world, and changing the life of one girl who he met during the Lugia summoning of the Orange Islands, Tracey Sketchit has a lot to talk about. Find out his story next time…
See ya then!