Here we go!
Disclaimer: If I owned pokemon, you'd be seeing pokemon yaoi on the T.V… anyways, Nintendo owns pokemon, and this is non-profit, non-copyright-infringing fanfic written by me, so don't take it!
Timeline: 3.5 weeks
Chapter 9: Emoticon – VS Aerodactyl
Ash stayed on Cinnabar, and he and Lance spent some time together just talking. The two aerodactyls spent their time flirting.
It was kind of amusing, Ash decided, as he watched his Aerodactyl present Lance's with a dead Rattata to prove he was a strong hunter.
Lance took a sip of his clear soda. "So, where are you off to next?"
"I'll check on my grandfather one last time. He's still in shock after you beat him yesterday."
"I admit that he probably didn't expect my Dragonair to be able to survive in Lava."
"Or you, either."
"Well, his Magmar knocked us both off. Was he expecting me to forfeit?"
"Actually, I thought you'd use Aerodactyl."
"What can I say? I like being original."
Ash nodded, hiding a blush as Lance looked at him intently. He felt some kind of bond with the other trainer, but could not figure out what it was.
They both had similar pasts, only Lance had been abandoned. He had lived on his own for years before finding his sister.
That was why he took exceptional care of his pokemon.
Ash could empathize, it hurt not having parents.
Pokemon were your only friends in that case.
Raichu was finishing up the canister of ketchup that sat on the table. The Volcano Café was small, but much loved by the populace.
Star ate an apple slice and wagged her tail.
I think you two are a good pair.
Ash spit out his milkshake. "WHAT?!"
"Hm?" Lance asked, taking another sip of soda. "Careful, you might choke."
"Star!"
There may be some truth to that. Aerodactyl said.
Now, now. Kadabra said in a fake 'motherly' voice. Don't fight, children.
You're blushing!
"I am not!" Ash said, pouting.
Lance's Aerodactyl landed next to Ash's and crooned.
Both Aerodactyls then flew off together.
"Aeroy!"
Ash was about to go after them, when Lance stopped him.
"Ash, I think they need some time alone."
Ash's eyes widened. "They're-."
"I assume so. I'm sure you wouldn't want to be interrupted.'
"N-no…" Ash said, blushing redder.
Lance patted him on the back. "Don't worry, they won't get hurt.'
"I know."
"I'll keep you company 'till they come back."
"Really?"
"What are friends for?" Lance queried blithely, as they paid the bill and left the restaurant.
"So your sister's name is Claire."
"Yes, she's two years younger than me." Lance said. "I also have an ancient grandfather. He's the one who kicked me out because he thought I wasn't a good enough trainer."
"That's awful…" Ash said. "My father left because he thought I was making him weak."
"What a fool." Lance said. "Anyone can see the power and determination burning in your eyes."
"R-really?" Red inwardly cursed himself for sounding like his timid lapras. Get a grip! Quit acting so nervous!
Lance tipped Red's chin up to take another look at his eyes. "Really."
Even though there was nothing sexual in the Dragon Master's actions, Ash still felt uncomfortable.
It was a new feeling.
He had been alone before, with only his pokemon. Having human company was quite different.
Very different…
"But you're a better trainer than me, even though you only use dragon types."
"I suppose you could say that. But I have more experience." Lance explained. He let go of Red and stepped back, waiting.
"I see…"
"Remember, I'm six years older than you."
Ash nodded.
That was very unfair… there was no way he'd be able to get Lance's attention. There were probably plenty of girls out there who would.
Ash stopped. Where did that come from?! I don't like him! At least, not in that way! We're just friends! Friends! And I only met him about a month ago! How can I fall in love? I 'm too young! Really! I am!
Sadly enough, it was not working.
"Ash? Ash?"
Ash realized that Lance was shaking him gently. "You blanked out there. Are you sure you don't need to go home yourself?"
"Y-yes." Ash said.
Lance looked concerned, but didn't press any farther. Let him keep his secrets. We all need them. It helps one feel better.
Star sighed.
Master, you need some help in this area.
She wished she had someone like that of her own. Maybe not a mate, but at least a friend, a confidante…
Ash is nice, but… he does need human company. Not just pokemon could keep him company forever. Even though we all care for him, I think it's not the same…
End Chapter
Created 3/4/04, completed 3/9/04