Chapter 6: Renewed Determination
A distinct feeling of unease fills the hospital reception room where our heroes sit, waiting for news of Ash and Domino's conditions. They arrived at the hospital almost an hour before and Ash and Domino were both immediately rushed into the ER for examination. Since then there had been no word on their conditions. Ash2 and Misty2 made it back to Kurt's lab just as the ambulance was loading Domino's unconscious body into the back. Officer Jenny, who finally came to and was basically unhurt, immediately radioed for a second ambulance and then returned to the station, promising to return and take everyone's statements on the events. Misty remained in her shocked unresponsive state for most of the ambulance ride to the hospital. The medic riding in the ambulance finally coxed her into talking and giving them Ash's information after a few minutes. Now Misty sits with her head in her hands, still crying, and Jessie sits next to her trying in vain to comfort her. Ash2, Brock2, and Misty2 sit across the room with Tracey, Delia, and Oak, while Lance and TR2 pace slowly across the room in opposite directions. James enters the room, back from getting himself a diet soda from the vending machine, and sits down next to Jessie, where he sips his drink with little enthusiasm. Everyone is on edge. Suddenly the door near the reception desk opens and a male doctor in a white lab coat walks out, causing everyone except Misty to jump to their feet.
Oak: Well…
Doctor: First off the young girl from Team Rocket is in intensive care but we were able to stabilize her and we think she has a fairly good chance of survival. She is very lucky to be alive though, her injury could have been a lot worse.
Oak: What about Ash, what's his condition?
Jessie2: (on her last nerve) Yeah, hurry up and tell us or we'll have to beat it out of you!!
James2: You've kept us waiting forever, now just spit it out. What happened to the twerp?
The Doctor ignores all the strong protests of the others and walks over to Misty who is still sitting in her chair looking down at the ground. He stops in front of her and Misty looks up at his face with tears in her eyes.
Misty: (crying softly) Is…Is he alright??
Doctor: (smiling gently) Your boyfriend is going to be just fine.
The effects of the Doctor's words are immediate. Looks of relief pass over everyone's faces and suddenly there are a lot of hugs and cheers going around. Misty wipes the tears from her eyes and smiles up at the doctor.
Misty: (unbelievably relieved) Really!?!?
Doctor: Yep. (addresses everybody) It's really quit amazing. We had to give him a transfusion due to the amount of blood he lost, but, overall, your friend is in excellent condition considering the kind of injuries he sustained. It's almost unnatural. But I can assure you that he will be completely fine. He's already able to stand up and walk around a little.
Pikachu: (jumps down from Misty's shoulder) YEAH! I knew Ash would pull through. You can't keep him down.
Ash2: That's right and its because…(strikes a pose) I'm invincible!
Misty2: (smiles and pokes him in the side) Or just stubborn.
Ash2: Hey!
Doctor: (looks at the group funny) Are you guys part of some identical twin convention?? (stares at TR2 and the twerps) You guys look awfully alike.
Jessie: (sweat drops) No no no, it's nothing like that. You see we are ! (the others stare at her) yeah that's it, were cos-players.
Jessie2: (playing along) Yeah, my friends and I (points to Jessie and James) love to cos play as Team Rocket members. (strikes a pose) Don't we look authentic?
James2: (holds his rose)Yeah, we're big fans of the notorious Team Rocket duo Jessie and James.
Meowth2: Yeah, notorious for all the wrong reasons.
Doctor: Wow, a talking Meowth!!
James2: (kicks Meowth and then picks him up) Yeah isn't our Meowth ventriloquist act the best. The real Jessie and James have a talking Meowth too, so we wanted to be extra authentic.
Doctor: Hmmmm (looks them over) Don't Team Rocket members wear black uniforms?? I've never seen any members who wear white ones before. It's not too authentic if you ask me.
Jessie: (slightly ticked off) Of course Team Rocket wears these kind of uniforms. They are the latest fashion. Only low rung no-name TR grunts wear those horrendous black costumes.
James: Definitely. Jessie and James have so much more flare and style than all those pathetic rocket wannabes.
Doctor: (still skeptical) Ok, whatever you say. (turns to Ash2 and Misty2) So who are you guys?
Ash2: Who me? (grins widely) I'm dressed up as Ash Ketchum. He's going to be the greatest Pokemon trainer of all time. He is soooo cool!!!! Did you know he won the Orange League?!?!?
Misty2: (snickers and winks at Ash2) Ash is ok, but he can't compare the graceful and incredibly beautiful maiden Misty, gym leader of Cerulean City.
Pikachu2: (laughing) Right on!!
Ash2: Hey!! (gets a little irritated) You guys can't talk about me….er.. Ash that way!
Misty2: (ignores Ash2 and pats Misty on the shoulder) My friend and I are huge fans of water Pokemon and Misty is definitely one of the best water Pokemon trainers in the world!! So we like to dress up as her on occasion.
Doctor: I thought the Cerulean Gym was run by three sisters named Daisy, Lily, and Violet. I hadn't really heard anything about a girl named Misty.
Misty2: (sweat drops but keeps smiling) Oh is that so? Well I'm here to tell you that there is a 4th sister named Misty and she is twice the trainer that her sisters are and is also ten times cuter.
Brock2: I'm dressed as Brock, the suave lady's man gym leader of Pewter City.
Doctor: Yeah, you look the part, but are you sure you've got the description right? I heard that the real Brock doesn't have much luck with women (Brock2 falls over)
Lance: (strikes a pose) As you can see I am dressed as Lance, the legendary leader of the Elite 4 and current champion of the Johto League!
Doctor: Yeah, I can definitely see the likeness. You've got a great hair dye job, the color is perfectly matched to Lance's (turns to Oak) I know who you are; you're cos-playing as the famous Professor Oak aren't you?
Oak: Cos-playing? No no young man, I AM the real Proffessor Oak!
Doctor: (laughs a little) That's a good one. You're a great actor, and your costume is really authentic. I'm sure you fool a lot of people.
Oak: (very irritated) Now, young man see here…
Doctor: (ignoring Oak and looks at Tracey) And you must be cosplaying as the Professor's young boy toy jail bait assistant. (everyone falls over)
Oak: (totally shocked) Boy toy!!?!? JAIL BAIT!?!?!?
Tracey: Oh how did you guess?? (latches onto Oaks' arm) I just love the professor so much that cosplaying as Tracey seemed like the perfect choice!!
Oak: Tracey what are you doing?? Let go of me!! (tries to pry Tracey off of himself)
Doctor: (laughs) You guys are GREAT!!! You work together perfectly. You could definitely win the top prize at any cosplay convention. (finally looks at Delia) Are you a cosplayer too?
Delia: Nope, I'm just a normal worried mother.
Doctor: Well you don't have anything to worry about because we are taking excellent care of your son's friend, ma'm. (addresses everyone again) I've got to get back to work now. As I said, you friend is in excellent condition so any of you guys can pop in a visit him whenever you want tonight. He's in room 217. Just make sure you don't get him too excited or something like that. You guys are also free to stay here overnight to be with your friend. We have some spare rooms in the east wing and we can set up a couple of cots in your friend's room if you like. Come find me if you have anymore questions, I'll be around. See ya. (heads back through the doors he came out of)
Delia: Well, I guess we can visit Ash now.
Lance: From what the doctor said, it sounded like the Contact power that Ash possesses also gives him accelerated healing ability. That's a good thing because we are going to need to hurry if we want to stop Giovanni. I think we better let Misty go see Ash first. They probably have a lot to discuss. (winks at Misty, causing her to blush)
Misty: Ok (looks around at the others) Thank you guys, for trying to cheer me up and help me through this.
Jessie: Hey, no problem that's what friends and team mates are for. (everyone nods)
Misty smiles and then eagerly runs through the doors that the doctor disappeared into, heading towards room 217. Pikachu runs after her but is quickly caught by Jessie.
Pikachu: Hey, put me down, I want to see Ash too
Meowth: Come on Pikachu lets leave them alone together for awhile.
Jessie: Yeah, they definitely need some private time around now.
Pikachu: (resigns) Ok ok, fine I'll let them be for now
Brock2: What are we going to do about Giovanni, now that he has the second GS Ball?
Lance: We won't have to worry about that at least until tomorrow. It may not have looked it at first, but I seriously damaged the wing on his Jet. He definitely didn't get far on that thing. If we're lucky we'll be able to make it to the place where Zohar is sealed before he does. Now I strongly suggest that everyone get a good amount of rest tonight in order to be ready for what's to come.
James2: And what exactly is coming up?
Lance: Why the final battle with Zohar of course.
Jessie2: Wait a minute; is it really such a good idea to mess with this kind of thing? We already lost one person and another was seriously wounded. Shouldn't we call in the army or something?
Lance: (looks around at all of them) You're very right. This will be a dangerous fight. I won't force any of you to participate if you don't want to. Each person must make a choice in their own heart about whether or not they will fight.
Ash2: I think I'll head to one of the rooms. I'm pretty tired. Come on Pikachu. (the two of them walk off towards the east wing)
Lance: (looks at Delia) I think I better go talk to him again.
Delia: (nods) Yeah that might be a good idea (Lance turns and follows Ash)
Jessie: I need some fresh air. James, Meowth, and I are going to head outside and clear our heads.
Jessie2: We'll go with you.
Delia: Well I think I'll turn in for the night in one of the spare rooms. You want to come with me Pikachu?
Pikachu: Yeah I guess I'll come. I'm pretty tired and I guess I can see Ash tomorrow morning.
Oak: I think we will turn in too.
Tracey: (glomping Oak again) Can I sleep next to you Professor?
Oak: (makes a disgusted face) Ewwww, no!!! Let go of me and stop with this foolishness already.
Tracey: But Professssoooooooorr!!!!! (glomps him harder)
Oak: AAAAAAH! (runs off with Tracey in tow)
Brock2: I guess I'll room with Tracey and the Professor. See you tomorrow Misty.
The groups split off and head in different directions, leaving only Misty2 without a plan. She sits down in a chair and stares off into space for awhile, thinking about the events of the long day, and then decides to go and check on Ash2 and Lance. She gets up and heads down the hallway in the direction that Lance and Ash went.
meanwhile outside
The two TR groups sit on a bench under a tree in the small park across the street from the hospital. The two Meowth and Jigglypuff lay on their backs a few feet away, gazing up at the full moon and the star filled sky. James sits on one end of the bench with Jessie in his lap, his arms around her waste and hers holding his hands. Jessie2 and James2 sit at the opposite end of the bench, holding hands and leaning against each other. For the last half hour the 4 trainers had been exchanging information about the differences between their two worlds. James2 leans back over the edge of the bench, looks up into the tree, and gives a long sigh
James2: (sort of dreamy voice) So the two of you are married in your world??
James: Yep, we had the ceremony just a few weeks ago right after our encounter with Butch and Cassidy.
Jessie: (gives James a quick kiss on the lips) James asked me to marry him immediately after professing his love to me. It was really romantic.
Jessie2: (glares a little at James2) That doesn't sound like the James I know. Where is my ring, may I ask?
James2: (sweat drops and waves his arms around nervously) Don't you think your rushing things?
Jessie2: (sighs and looks at Jessie) See what I mean. You're lucky you got a committed James. I have to date this indecisive wimpy one.
James2: Hey, I am not indecisive.
Jessie2: (winks at him) You are too but…(gives him a quick kiss) I love you anyway (glares at him again) but don't you dare make me wait too long. I don't want to turn into an old maid before I'm married.
James2: (a little scared) Yes ma'm
Meowth2: (absent mindedly) But you're already an old maid
Jessie2: (eyes glow red) WHAT WAS THAT!?!?!?
Before Meowth2 can say anything Jessie2 leaps up from the bench and punts the cat Pokemon like a football. Meowth2 sails through the air straight towards the moon.
Meowth2: I'm blasting off alone! (ding )
Jessie2: (sitting back on the bench) That should teach him a lesson
James2: So what is it like to be married?
James: I guess it's not really THAT different from how it was before the ceremony, but there definitely is a difference.
Jessie: (sarcastically) That was helpful. Are you trying to scare them away from it? (turns to Jessie2) I guess it is kind of hard to describe, but the best way I can say is that I think it feels…safer.
Jessie2: Safer, what do you mean?
Jessie: Well there is just something about it, you know. James now isn't just my boyfriend, now he's my husband. It's just a stronger, more concrete thing, I guess. I don't really know if that was anymore helpful.
Jessie2: I'm not totally sure I understand, but that sounds nice. I guess you have to experience it for yourself to really get it. (glances at James2) hint hint. (James2 laughs nervously)
James: (looks into Jessie's eyes) Yeah, Jessie is right. It is really nice, even if I'm no good at explaining it.
James and Jessie lean together and share a deep kiss. After a few moments of watching them Jessie2 stands up and pulls James2 to his feet as well. Jessie and James immediately break off their kiss and look up at them.
Jessie2: We don't want to break up your romantic moment, so we'll take a walk.
James: No, we don't want you to go.
Jessie2: (interrupts) No it's alright. You guys deserve to have a few moments along. James and I can entertain ourselves (winks slyly at James2)
James2: (blushing) Well I guess we'll see you guys tomorrow. If Meowth gets back here tell him to meet us back in one of the rooms.
Jessie2: And don't tell him where we are going right now. I don't want him interrupting anything.
With that said, Jessie2 and James2 turn and walk hand and hand across the park towards the lake at the very center. Jessie and James smile and watch them go.
James: I never really realized until now how cute a couple we are.
Meowth: (glancing back at them) Don't you think it's a little freaky to be saying that about yourselves?
Jessie: (sweat drops) Meowth's got a point; it is kind of weird watching ourselves act all romantic. I'm still not used to this alternate dimension thing.
James: Yeah, but don't you think it was really interesting to hear about all the differences between their experiences and ours?
Jessie: Yeah I guess. It's kind of weird that we are the same people but we experienced two totally different strings of events.
James: While we were discovering Giovanni's dark secrets and becoming Team Rocket refugees they continued on with the organization as if nothing had happened.
Jessie: Yeah (changes the subject and becomes serious) James, what do you think will happen tomorrow?
James: I don't know, but we have to stay together and support each other. We have to stick with our friends to the end and stop Giovanni's plan, just like we said we would.
Jessie: (laughs a little) It's funny to think that the kids who were just a few months ago our biggest enemy and pain in the neck are now our best friends. I never thought it could happen.
James: Yeah, me either. Buts it's nice. I got tired of always fighting them, and getting electrocuted every day got old real fast.
Jessie: (laughs out loud) Yeah, that's for sure.
Jessie and James laugh together and continue to reminisce about their past experiences with the twerps. Meowth glances back at them for a moment and then returns to gazing at the moon above. Suddenly Meowth2 drags himself up the small hill and plops down next to Meowth, gasping for breath.
Meowth: (turns to Meowth2) Rough ride huh?
Meowth2: Tell me about it. Jessie's punts usually don't have that much distance on them. (notices his J and J are gone) Hey, where did they go? What did I miss?
Meowth: They talked about what it's like to be married then my Jessie and James started making out and yours started feeling awkward so they decided to go on a walk by themselves and give these guys some privacy. And they don't want you following them; they said to just meet them back in one of the hospital rooms later.
Meowth2: Well now I feel loved. First I'm kicked almost to the moon then they run off and leave me behind. (long sigh) Oh well (plops down on his back and watches the moon with Meowth)
Meowth2: This may be the last time we ever see the moon, you know. Tomorrow we may all end up just like that tall twerp. The boss definitely means business.
Meowth: (sighs) Yeah, you're right. This isn't like fighting the twerps. Giovanni will do more than just blast us off if we lose to him.
Meowth2: (sits up and looks at Meowth) You thinking of sitting it out?
Meowth: (becomes fired up) Of course not!! Where ever Jessie and James go, I'll go.
Meowth2: Right. We've got to stick with our partners until the end, and we can't just leave the twerps hanging, not after what we learned today. (looks down at his paws) I still can't believe all this time we were with Team Rocket and we never knew the true nature of the boss.
Meowth: It's not your fault. We discovered the truth completely by accident and it almost got us killed. What matters is that you know now and can do something about it.
Meowth2: Yeah, you're right.
Meowth: Yeah. (leans back on the grass) Still…can't help being a little scared. Giovanni is really powerful and then there is that Zohar thing.
Jigglypuff: Jiggly Jiggly puff!
Meowth: (sits up again) What? You say you'll protect me, that you won't let me get hurt?
Jigglypuff: (nods enthusiastically) JIGGLY!!! Puff puff!
Meowth2: That reminds me. Why exactly are you here Jigglypuff??
Meowth: (blushes and scratches his head) Well, you see that is…
Jigglypuff: Jigglypuff Jigglypufff puff jig.
Meowth2: (eyes bug out) WHAT!? You love me…er him??
Meowth: (sweatdrops) It's kind of a long story.
Meowth2: (sweatdrops as well) So….um do you like Jigglypuff back?
Meowth: (blushes and acts nervous) uuum…well…..that is…..
Jigglypuff: (turns to Meowth and smiles) Jig Jig Jig puuuuuuuuuuf!
Meowth: Really Jigglypuff? (begins to tear up) That's…that's so sweet. No one's ever said something like that to me!
Meowth2: (a little surprised) So you don't care anymore if he feels the same way or not? You just want to be by his side and protect him with your life?? That's really cool Jigglypuff!! I wish a certain someone felt that way about me (looks down at the ground)
Meowth: (looks at him slyly) And who exactly is that someone?
Meowth2: (blushes) Oh it's nobody important. You wouldn't be interested.
Meowth: (crosses his arms in irritation) Fine, if you don't want to tell us well just go elsewhere. Come on Jigglypuff.
Meowth stands up, grabs Jigglypuff's hand and walks away from the bench towards the forest area of the park. Meowth2 watches them go and then sighs in relief, happy not to be forced to reveal his own secret crush. After a few moments he decides to get up and head back into the hospital to wait for Jessie2 and James2. At the same time Meowth and Jigglypuff reach a small clearing and stop to rest.
Jigglypuff: Jiggly??
Meowth: Why did I bring you out here?? Well…(twiddles his claws nervously) Look, Jigglypuff, I'm sorry if I hurt your feelings the other night when we talked. It's just that…you were being so forward and aggressive with your feelings that it was kind of overwhelming. I mean, I just walked in and you had already knocked out my friends and then you cornered me. It wasn't exactly a good position for me. And we don't know each other that well, I mean; I've only really been able to talk to you once or twice in this whole crazy adventure.
Jigglypuff: Puff puff puff
Meowth: You understand and you forgive me? (cries waterfall tears) Thanks a lot Jig
Jigglypuff: Jigglypuff, jigglypuff jigglpuff. Puff jig puff jig.
Meowth: (thinks about it for a minute) Well, I guess I could, that sounds kind of nice. Ok I promise I'll do it…if we survive tomorrow.
Jigglypuff: (jumps for joy) Jiggly jiggly!!!!
Meowth: (smiles warmly) You're welcome.
Jigglypuff and Meowth walk back towards the park bench to rejoin Jessie and James. Meanwhile, Jessie2 and James2 stand side by side at the edge of the pond in the middle of the park, gazing out over the smooth clear water and listening to the wind whistle through the trees. After a few moments Jessie2 sighs and crouches down on her knees to dip her hand in the water. Noticing her apparent distress, James2 breaks the silence.
James2: Is something wrong Jess? What's on your mind?
Jessie2: (sighs again) Everything today is just moving so fast. Yesterday was just like any other day. We chased the twerps and tried to capture Pikachu so we could give it to the boss. But look were we are now! (throws her hands up in exasperation.) All of a sudden we find out that the boss is a crazy man trying to revive some ancient evil with the power to destroy the universe and the twerps are the key to stopping him, and that there are two dimensions and two copies of each of us. It's just too much. And then tomorrow we're all supposed to march off into battle against the boss and hope we can save the world.
James2: (Kneels down next to her and places a hand on her shoulder) We don't have to participate in the battle you know. Lance said that we all have to decide for ourselves.
Jessie2: Yeah I know that. But I don't think it would feel right to just walk away. Not after what we learned tonight, even if it is a little overwhelming.
James2: I know what you mean (turns and gazes out over the water) I feel like we've been deceived. All this time the boss was up to far worse than just simple Pokemon thievery. Now I feel like it's our duty to help the twerps, now that we know the truth. We can't let the boss get away with destroying the world.
Jessie2: Yeah, I agree. But…at the same time I can't help wondering why we are even here?
James2: (turns back to her) What do you mean?
Jessie2: I mean why were we drawn into this battle? Lance knows all about the boss and has been after him for awhile so it makes sense for him to be here, and the twerps are supposedly the ones who are destined to stop all this. But why are we here? We don't have any legendary powers or destinies and we certainly aren't the best Pokemon trainers. Would we even be any use to the twerps if we did come along? I just don't know. I don't want to get in the way.
James2: (smiles reassuringly) I'm not exactly sure why we are in this either, but I definitely believe that we do have some sort of role to play in these events. We just have to go along and wait to see what it is. I think we may have already been a help in the fight, after all, didn't Wobbuffet help a lot in the last battle?
Jessie2: (smiles) Yeah, I guess your right.
James2 doesn't reply for a few moments, then he reaches over and firmly takes Jessie2's hands in his own, causing her to blush. He stands up and draws her to her feet as he gazes into her eyes.
James2: (becoming totally serious) Jessie, I'm sorry for being so indecisive all the time. I know you want to move forward with our relationship. I…
Jessie2: (interrupts him, blushing) No James it's alright. I was just teasing you for a little fun. I would never force you into something you weren't ready for. I can wait as long as needed, because I love you and only you. (squeezes his hands lovingly)
James2: (blushing bright red) Thanks Jessie.
After a few moments James2 and Jessie2 lean in close and share a deep passionate kiss. The kiss lasts for nearly a minute before the two break it off, their faces red and their hearts pounding a mile a minute. Jessie2 puts her arms tightly around James2 and lays her head on his shoulder with her eyes closed. The two of them stand this way silently for several minutes before anything else is said.
Jessie2: I wish the two of us could just stay like this all night.
James2: Jessie?
Jessie2: (raises her head and looks at him) Yes James??
James2: (beyond nervous) Um…when all this is over….if we survive the battle…will you…will you….marry me??
It takes a few moments for the question to register but when it does a look of pure happiness passes across Jessie2's face. She jumps into James2's arms and knocks him over onto the ground.
Jessie2: (laughing and smiling) Well duh, of course I will!! You just made me the happiest girl in the world. You're awesome James.
James2 smiles excitedly at Jessie2's reaction and hugs her close to him. Soon the two of them are once again passionately kissing and holding each other, losing themselves in their own emotions, forgetting everything else around them.
meanwhile Professor Oak, Tracey, and Brock2 all lay together in one of the guest rooms in the Hospital. Brock2 and Oak each have a bed and Tracey is on a cot next to Oak's bed. After they got to the room and settled in Tracey and Oak fell right to sleep, after the obligatory fight over whether or not Tracey would sleep with the Professor, but Brock2 remained awake, unable to get the events of the day out of his head. Suddenly the door opens and Pikachu walks in. He looks around and, after noticing that Brock2 is still awake, runs over and leaps up onto the bed.
Brock2: (sits up) Hey Pikachu. Um…which one are you?
Pikachu: (laughs) I'm the Pikachu from the other world.
Brock2: Ok. Weren't you with Mrs. Ketchum?
Pikachu: Yeah, but I decided I'd leave her along. I think she will probably want to have some time to talk to Lance by herself, after he's done talking to the Ash from your world
Brock2: Well that was nice of you. So…How are you holding up?
Pikachu: Fine…I guess. I'm worried about Ash
Brock2: The doctor said he was going to be fine.
Pikachu: Yeah I know but still… (turns away) I wish I could have been there when it happened. Maybe I could have prevented him from getting hurt
Brock2: (puts his hand on Pikachu's back) You shouldn't blame yourself so much. It wasn't your fault that Ash got hurt. Giovanni is cruel and unforgiving. I doubt any of us could have stopped what happened.
Pikachu: (begins to cry) Still…I can't stand the fact that my best friend in the world was hurt like that while I wasn't there. This just sucks! Why did Ash have to be the chosen one?? Why did any of us have to get dragged into this fight?! (looks down at the ground) I don't want anyone else to end up like…Brock
Brock2: (holds Pikachu) Yeah, I know. We've all had a rough experience. I can't stop thinking about everything; it's why I haven't fallen asleep yet. (glances over at the others and smiles) I can't believe they were able to fall asleep so quickly.
Tracey: (talking in his sleep) Oh Professor Oak, your so amazing!! I've never had one that lasted that long…no Professor…not so rough….I'm still sensitive. Oh…oh!!
Brock2: (major sweatdrop, mumbles to himself) I don't want to know, I DON'T want to know. (turns away from Tracey)
Pikachu: (sweatdrop) That's REALLY disturbing. I never want to think about that again as long as I live. So anyway (becomes serious again) what specifically is on your mind?
Brock2: (glances out the window) I guess that seeing what Giovanni did to the other me tonight has me shaken up a lot. I…I can't believe the other me was in love with Misty. He died to save her. I…I don't know if I have that kind of courage.
Pikachu: What do you mean?
Brock2: The other me had someone he wanted to protect more than anyone else, someone he was willing to die for. But…I don't have that. I'm just a silly girl crazy teenager. I can't be strong like him. I don't think I should even go with everyone to the battle tomorrow. I probably wouldn't be of any use.
Pikachu: (looks at Brock sternly) That's the most ridicules thing I've ever heard!!
Brock2: (still depressed) But it's true
Pikachu: (shocks Brock2 a little) Snap out of it, of course it's not true! (smiles at him) I know that you're just as strong as the Brock from my world, because the two of you are the still the same person, despite the differences in events between the two worlds. Our Brock loved Misty enough to risk his life for her. I know you have something you want to protect too, even if you don't realize it now. Everyone has something they want to protect. You are a great friend to Ash and Misty. Their fight is going to be harder than anyone else's, so they are going to need all the support we can give them. You can't back out on them now. We all have to work together!!!
Brock2: (smiles again) Yeah I guess your right. Even if I can't do anything myself, I have to be there standing by the side of my friends. So what is it that you want to protect Pikachu??
Pikachu: (laughs) That's kind of a silly question. Ash, of course! He's my best friend and I'll do all that I can to make sure he doesn't get hurt again. Giovanni is going to pay for what he did to my buddy.
Brock2: (smiles and pets Pikachu) I'm sure Ash would appreciate the sentiment. (suddenly yawns and lays back) It feels like the exhaustion of the day is finally catching up to me. Thanks for trying to cheer me up Pikachu, I really appreciate it. Ash certainly got a one of a kind Pokemon when he received you as his starter. Well…Goodnight (turns over on his side and closes his eyes)
Pikachu: Thanks Brock, and Goodnight to you too.
Tracey: (mumbling in his sleep again) Oh Professor, kimi no oku made tadoritsukitai!!
Pikachu: (huge sweatdrop) I do NOT want to know!
Pikachu walks down to the foot of the bed and burrows himself into the warm comforter that is spread across the bed. In only a few seconds both he and Brock are asleep and snoring softly.
Meanwhile Misty stands nervously outside hospital room 217, stalling as she tries to figure out what to say to Ash when she sees him. Suddenly she is startled when she feels movement in her backpack, as Togepi pops its head out. Both Togepi had been asleep when the two Misty's reclaimed them from Professor Kurt.
Misty: (breathing slightly faster) Oh, Togepi you scared me! (takes the pack off and holds it in front of her) So you're finally awake.
Togepi: (yawns loudly for a moment) It was boring staying with that old man. What happened with you guys? I wish you had taken me with you.
Misty: (becomes sad, tears begin to form) We had a fierce battle with Giovanni and Domino and….and…Brock…he…(closes her eyes and begins to cry) And Ash…He was hurt bad. (collapses to the floor next to the door to 217, buries her head in the side of the bag) I don't know what I'm going to do.
Togepi: Oh Mommy I'm sorry!! That's horrible!! I didn't know. (pats Misty on the head comfortingly)
Misty: (looks up and dries her tears) It's ok Togepi, it's not your fault at all. I'm still just really shaken up. Ash is going to be fine, the Doctor told us he's healing very quickly, so I at least have that to be thankful for. I was just about to go in and see him.
Togepi: Well don't let me stop you. Get in there!!
Misty: (hesitates) Well…I'm kind of nervous. I don't know what I'm going to say to him, not even what I can say to him.
Togepi: (gives a confused look) What do you mean?
Misty: Giovanni hurt Ash to get me to give him the GS ball. Ash kept urging me not to give in, but I did anyway. I…(a single tear trickles down her face) I couldn't help it. But I'm afraid of what Ash will say, and what he thinks of me now. I let him down. I don't deserve to see him.
Togepi: (becomes irritated) You shouldn't talk like that. You need to have some confidence. Even if what you're afraid of is true I'm sure the two of you will work it out somehow, because you love him and he loves you. So march your butt into that room and start working it out, or do I have to use my metronome on you?
Misty: (laughs) No Togepi that's ok, I'll go. Thanks for cheering me up.
Togepi: (smiles and laughs) You are very welcome!
Misty puts the pack on again, stands up, and confidently walks through the door into room 217. The hospital room is lit with a low yellow light. On Misty's left is a big hospital bed and to her right are several tables and chairs for visitor's to sit in. At the far end of the room is a rather large balcony with a nice view of the park across the street. Standing at the railing looking up at the glowing moon is Ash. Togepi pops its head out of the pack again and looks around.
Togepi: (quitely) Misty, leave me there on that table. I don't want to disturb you and Ash so I think I'll just go back to sleep again.
Misty: (whispering so as not to alert Ash) Thanks Togepi, that's very thoughtful of you. Good night.
Togepi curls back into the backpack again as Misty gently sets it down on the table nearest the door. With this done Misty turns and slowly begins to walk towards Ash. He is dressed only in a pair of hospital gown pants, his upper body is bare and his arms and torso are wrapped in white bandages. "Ash" Misty says gently, causing him to turn around to face her. The gash on his head is covered with a white square pad. Misty stops a few feet away from him and the two stare at each other for a few moments before the silence is broken.
Ash: Hi Misty
Misty: Ash shouldn't you be in bed?
Ash: (shakes his head) No, I feel alright. The doctor told me I'm healing much faster than normal so it's ok. I guess having these powers has some benefits.
Misty: (smiles) That's good.
Misty walks forward and gently takes Ash's left hand in hers, squeezing it affectionately. She stares into Ash's eyes for a little longer and tears soon begin to come to her own.
Misty: (crying tears of joy) Ash, I'm so relieved that you're alright. You can't imagine how worried I was these past hours, I could barely…
Suddenly Ash interrupts Misty by pulling his hand out of hers and turning away. Misty is surprised and taken aback by this action, and takes another step towards him. "Ash, what's wrong, are you alright?" She asks as she touches his shoulder lightly. Ash doesn't respond but turns back around to face her. The expression on his face startles Misty and causes her to take a step back. Instead of the soft look of gladness that she had seen cross his face when he first turned around, she saw a look of anger and reproach.
Ash: (speaking firmly) Why did you do it?
Misty: (a little confused) Huh?? Why…?
Ash: (speaking louder and more forcefully) Why did you give the GS ball to him??
Misty: (startled a little) I…I had to!
Ash: (sweeps his hand through the air) The GS ball was the key to everything! It's what seals away Zohar. Giovanni already had one of them; we couldn't allow him to get the other.
Misty: (a little scared) But…but…
Ash: (yelling a little) No buts. All that mattered was the GS ball, don't you understand that, Misty? If Giovanni unseals Zohar he could destroy the entire universe. Everyone we know would be in danger.
Misty: (about to cry) But…he was about to kill you!
Ash: (even more angry) Don't you get it, that doesn't matter!! I'm just one person. We're talking about the entire world here, Misty. You can't risk the whole world for one person's life. Keeping the GS ball out of Giovanni's hands was the only priority. You…(looks away, disgusted) You may have doomed the whole human race, Misty.
Ash turns away from Misty without another word and begins to walk back to his bed. Misty is shocked by Ash's outburst and is suddenly overcome with extreme emotion. Everything from the day, all the pain and danger and fear, crashes down on her in one second and she bursts out crying. Ash turns around and stares at Misty, who covers her face and sobs into her hands. Her response is stronger than he expected and catches him of guard
Misty: (sobbing loudly and yelling) How...How can you be so insensitive!!???
Ash: (his turn to be surprised) What do you mean?
Misty: You nobly talk about protecting the world and saving everyone, about sacrificing your life for the cause and everything, but…but…what about my feelings!?!?!?!? Don't I have a say in any of this!!??
Ash: (a little confused) Misty, what are you talking about!?
Misty: (nearly screaming) Don't you get it!? You ARE the world, Ash, you're my world. (looks down at the ground) When Giovanni was torturing you, every wound he inflicted on you hurt me too. It cut me deep in my heart. I couldn't bear to see you in pain like that, I couldn't!!!
Misty sobs louder and slowly sinks to her knees. Misty's sadness suddenly cuts through to Ash's heart and the strong anger he felt towards her only a few moments before slowly begins to thaw and melt away.
Misty: (sobbing more softly) I..I don't know what I would do if you died Ash. There's no point in sacrificing yourself in this. I don't want to lose anyone else. We have to work together to beat Zohar. It's…the only way.
Misty's own little outburst touches Ash's heart and washes away the last trace of anger he has towards her. After a moment he walks forward and helps her up. He gently brushes a stream of tears from her cheek and then silently embraces her. Misty wraps her arms around him and hugs him tight as she continues to cry.
Ash: (speaking gently and softly) Misty, I'm sorry…I'm sorry. You're right. I shouldn't have yelled at you. (looks down) I'm so stupid. I've broken the promise we made to Brock. I always end up hurting you, no matter what I do.
Misty: (tears begin to slow) That's not true. You were right about the GS ball being important. I'm just being selfish.
Ash: No you're right. We have to work together to defeat Zohar. That's why the wave existence split the power between two people. If I had died back there like that it probably wouldn't have made a difference, after all, Giovanni has no mercy.
Misty: Lance thinks we can catch up to Giovanni and possibly stop him before he uses the GS balls. He was able to damage Giovanni's jet pretty badly.
Ash: Well that's good. So everything isn't totally lost yet, but I guess it never was. (smiles and brushes his hand against Misty's cheek) I'm sorry again Misty.
Misty: (smiles and reaches up to hold his hand) It's ok. I already told you, I'm just glad you're ok. That's all the matters to me.
Ash thanks Misty by planting a gentle loving kiss on her lips. The kiss lasts only a few seconds before they break away again. The two of them embrace for a few more moments and then walk back to Ash's hospital bed and sit down on it, side by side, holding hands, as they gaze up at the moon.
Misty: It's so beautiful isn't it.
Ash: Yeah, but (turns and smiles at Misty) You're even more beautiful.
Misty: (blushes) Thanks Ash, that really sweet of you to say.
Misty leans forward and gives Ash another good, long, kiss on the lips. Soon the two of them fall back onto the bed, arms wrapped around each other, kissing passionately. However, it is only a matter of a few minutes before exhaustion over takes them both and they fall asleep peacefully in each other's arms.
meanwhile Ash2 sits on the edge of the bed in the dark guest room of the hospital. His mind is filled with churning thoughts and feelings as he tries to sort out the events of the night. In less that 24 hours he had met alternate versions of himself and his friends, discovered he had a destiny, been re-united with his father, and been dragged into a battle for the very fate of the universe. Who could blame him if he was feeling a little confused? Pikachu2 hops into Ash2's lap, causing the boy to snap out of his thoughts for a moment.
Ash2: (smiles and pets Pikachu2) It's been a wild night hadn't it Pikachu?
Pikachu2: You got that right! So…(looks up at Ash2 with concern) What's bugging you?
Ash2: (laughs sarcastically) HA, that's kind of a pointless question. Where should I begin? (becomes serious) This whole night has been screwed up. I don't know if I can handle all this.
Pikachu2: I'm sure everything will work out for the best. You should get some sleep. I'm sure you will feel better in the morning.
Ash2: Sleep is the last thing I feel like right now. (smiles weakly) I wish I could be as optimistic as you Pikachu, but…this is all just too crazy
Suddenly there is a loud knock on the door. Ash2 turns around as Lance enters.
Lance: Ash, is it ok if I come in? I'd like to talk to you
Ash2 gives his father a cold stare and Lance hesitates. He begins to step back through the door when Ash2's expression changes to one of exhaustion and complacency as he turns back towards the wall.
Ash2: (voice impassive) Yeah, I guess it's ok.
Lance thanks him as he leaves the door ajar and walks across the room. He sits down near the head board of the bed. Ash2 doesn't turn to face him. After a moment Pikachu2 hops down and scampers across the room to the door.
Pikachu2: I don't feel like I should be here right now. I'll give you two some time to yourselves. Be back later Ash!
Ash2 turns to try and tell Pikachu2 that he shouldn't leave, but the Pokemon disappears through the door before anything can be said. An awkward silence fills the room as Ash2 stares through the door and then glances over Lance. After a moment he once again turns around and faces the opposite wall.
Ash2: So…what do you want to talk about anyway?
Lance: I just wanted to know how your feelings and if you're ok and…
Ash2: (laughs cynically) HA! 12 hours ago I was a normal Pokemon trainer, traveling on my badge collecting journey with my friends. I was thinking about what Pokemon I would capture next, when I would get to battle for my next badge, and where I could take Misty on our next date. I was aiming to be a Pokemon Master. But now…(turns around and looks and Lance, a pained look crossing his face) everything suddenly comes crashing down around us. Alternate dimensions, plots for world conquest, evil organizations on the rampage, I didn't ask for any of this, I didn't want this stupid "great destiny" the wave existence bestowed on Misty and I and those other two. (a few tears escape) Tonight I had to watch the counterpart of one of my best friends die at the hands of that evil bastard, Giovanni. I had to see myself torn up and near death. I don't want to see that happen to anyone else. (full on crying) I…I don't want any of this.!! I just want to be a normal trainer!!
Ash2 looks down at the bed spread and continues to cry. Lance moves closer to Ash2 and gently places a hand on his shoulder. Ash2 flinches slightly but doesn't say anything or push him away.
Lance: I know its hard Ash, I understand.
Ash2: (sarcastically) Yeah right, how could you possibly understand?
Lance: Because I know what it feels like to be dragged into something like this. When I found out about all this stuff, it blew me away too. I was picked up and swept away. I didn't even get to say goodbye to you two.
Ash2 looks up at Lance and is surprised to see a few tears rolling down his face as well.
Lance: (crying silently) Do you think it was easy for me to leave you and your mother? Do you think I wanted to? I did it because I had to, because I thought it would keep you safe, at least for a little while. It was the hardest choice I've ever made in my life. I love you and your mother more than anyone else in the world. I couldn't bare the thought of being away from you, of possibly never seeing you again. But even more, I couldn't bare the thought of you or her being hurt in anyway because of what I had learned, so in the end I made that hard choice, I had to.
Ash2 turns to face his father completely. Lance places both of his hands on Ash's shoulders and gazes confidently into his young son's eyes.
Lance: Ash, I'm not going to tell you what to do. As I said before, everyone has to decide for themselves whether or not they will fight Zohar and Giovanni tomorrow. Power or no power, Ash, you are a human being and you have choice. The wave existence gave you a tool to fight Zohar, but he didn't give you a will. You must find that will within yourself, if it is there. So think of the things you've learned tonight, sort out your feelings, and make a decision. I know it's hard, but I promise that no matter what you choose, your friends and your mother will always be there for you. (smiles warmly at him) And I promise that I will always be there for you too. I'll never leave you or your mother again.
Ash2 turns away from Lance and for a moment the older man wonders if he's said the wrong thing again. But few moments later Ash turns back around and this time he is smiling weakly, tears still running slowly down his face.
Ash2: (speaking much more warmly, still crying) Oh and did I mention that only a few hours ago the dead beat dad that I thought was dead or had abandoned us just waltzed back into my life after saving us from the evil Team Rocket leader. That this so called father had come to tell us of the secrets behind the GS balls and Giovanni's plans. And that…(starts crying harder) That I didn't know what to say to him at all, that I was torn between wanting to hug him and kill him, or that I was both relieved to know he was alive and furious at him for daring to show his face again.
Ash2's tearful outburst takes Lance completely by surprise and he is stunned into silence. Ash2 cries softly for a few more moments then he wipes his eyes and attempts to compose himself some. He continues to look down at the bed spread as he speaks again.
Ash2: (hesitates nervously) I…I'm sorry for how I acted earlier.
Lance: No it's ok, you had every right to feel the way you did. I deserved it.
Ash2: You know, I always dreamed that one day I would go out and find you. Sometimes I dreamed that you were a POW or an international spy who was captured by an evil organization. That somehow you were being held against your will, and that was why you never came back. (smiles and laughs a little) I dreamed that my friends and I rescued you. I dreamed that you came home and you and mom and I became a family again, that mom would no longer cry. But…(his face becomes serious again) Sometimes I dreamed that I found you drunk or with another woman or just living like some homeless deadbeat. I…I dreamed that I clobbered you, that I beat you and proved to my mother what a waste of time you were, that you weren't worth her tears. But it didn't really matter to me which scenario it was because all I really wanted was just to find you. I wanted you to be there. I…(starts crying again) I missed you…and…and at the same time I hated you!!! I…I…
At this point Ash2's begins crying harder than ever before. After a few moments Lance tries to reach over and put his arms around Ash2 but the trainer quickly scoots away back to the edge of the bed.
Ash2: (crying sadly) You know you can't just expect me to accept all this right away. To accept you right away.
Lance: I understand and I didn't expect you to. I knew it wouldn't be easy to come back. I knew you would be mad at me. Just know Ash that I promise I will never hurt you or your mother again, if you just give me another chance. I want to start over; I want us to be a real family. I want to try and have what we could have had before, if Team Rocket hadn't come along. Will you at least give me that?
Ash2: I hated how mom cried for you. I couldn't understand why she could feel so broken up over someone who could just walk out on us like that. I figured you were some scum bag who probably mistreated her or something. But…when I saw her with you tonight (smiles wistfully) it was the happiest I'd ever seen her in a long time. She loves you, it's plain to see. I don't want to stand in the way of that.
Lance: (smiles warmly) Thank you for that.
Ash2: (glares at him sternly) But if you EVER make her cry again, I swear I will never forgive you.
Lance: That's a promise
Lance reaches forward to shake Ash2's hand but Ash turns away again. Suddenly the door opens again and this time Misty2 steps through. Ash2 and Lance turn to look at her. A strong feeling of guilt and sadness strikes Ash2 as he is suddenly brought back to his violent outburst against Lance only a few hours before and his harsh, cruel treatment of Misty2. He quickly turns away from her and looks down at his feet guiltily, a few tears falling to his knees.
Misty2: Ash, I was wondering if we could talk (notices that Lance is there) Oh, I didn't notice you were here. I'm sorry for interrupting (starts to back out through the door)
Lance: (stands up and waves her back in) No it's ok, we were just finishing. I'll leave you two alone now. See you all in the morning.
With that Lance walks out of the room and closes the door behind him, leaving Ash2 and Misty2 alone together. Standing outside at the end of the hallway is Delia, holding a sleeping Togepi2 in her arms. Lance spots her and immediately approaches. As he reaches her he glances down at Togepi2, who lets out a huge yawn before returning to its gentle snoring.
Delia: (giggles lightly) Misty asked me to hold Togepi while she went to talk to Ash. She wanted to be alone with him. (a look of concern crosses her face) Do you think they will be ok?
Lance: (smiles reassuringly) Don't worry, I know they'll be able to work things out. They care about each other. (glances around) Where is Ash's Pikachu?
Delia: He was waiting out here with me for a few minutes, but he decided to give Misty her time alone with him and went to my room instead.
Lance: That was nice of him. (gently puts his arms around Delia) So…how are you holding up?
Delia: How do you think I'm holding up? My long lost husband just shows up out of the blue and tells us that some evil organization is out to kill our only son and he has some great power that could save the world.
Lance: (laughs a little) Well when you put it THAT way…
Delia: (a tear runs down her face) I'm worried about Ash and Misty. This Team Rocket guy means business. He killed the Brock from the other world! And…(suddenly starts crying hard) I know that he wasn't my Ash, but still…I couldn't bear to see him hurt like that. I don't want them to fight
Lance: (reaches up and wipes a tear from Delia's face) I know how you feel. I'm worried about them too. But…You have to let them make this decision for themselves. He and Misty have the power to save the world, to put a stop to Giovanni's plans, and it is their power alone. This is their fight. We don't have a right to interfere.
Delia: (slowly nods her head) Yeah, I know. But still…(smiles as she cries) He's my little boy. I want to see him grow up and live his dreams. I want him to have a normal happy life, with his friends and the person he loves. I want all of them to be safe.
Lance: (squeezes her reassuringly) I don't think you have to worry. I have faith in Ash and his friends. I'm sure that they can defeat Giovanni and Zohar. I'm sure that everything will turn out all right.
Delia: I really hope your right. (smiles and squeezes a pokeball in her pocket) Well if I can't stop Ash from going on this crazy suicide mission I can at least try to help him along. I'm sure Mr. Mime could come in handy.
Lance: (gives her a stern look) Don't even think about it. There is no way I'm letting you come with us tomorrow.
Delia: (surprised) But...!
Lance: No buts about it! (gazes tenderly into her face) Having one family member in the line of fire is enough. I'm not going to let you put yourself in danger as well.
Lance leans forward slowly and gently kisses Delia on the lips, being careful not to crush Togepi between them. They stay together for a few moments and then Lance breaks the kiss and steps back. He slowly reaches up and brushes another tear away from Delia's cheek as he smiles at her.
Lance: I promise you that I will protect Ash with all of my strength. I'll make sure we come back.
Delia: (smiles weakly) All right, you win. Just…make sure you keep your promise. I'll wait for you, and when you come back we'll start over ok? We'll be a family again.
Lance smiles and nods. Delia draws him close to her and lays her head on his shoulder, still crying softly. Lance puts his arms around her again and the two of them remain that way for a long time, feeling each other and remembering the times long past.
meanwhile Misty2 walks across the room and sits down at the head of the bed, in the exact same spot that Lance sat in earlier. Misty2 thinks back to what happened earlier that night, to when Ash2 accidentally slapped her. At that one moment she had been incredibly hurt. She couldn't believe how Ash2 had acted. He had never yelled or done anything like that before. The battle with Giovanni that followed had caused her to forget the whole incident, but now the feeling was back in full. She sat in the lobby and thought about it for a long time before deciding that she had to clear everything up between her and Ash2. But now Ash2 had turned away from her in shame and the awkward silence between the two of them is tangible in the air. Unable to bear the tension between them another second, Misty2 finally breaks the silence.
Misty2: (speaking hesitantly) Ash, about earlier tonight. I know that…
Misty2 stops suddenly when she realizes that Ash is crying. His shoulders shake with each sob and she sees the tears falling and soaking into the bedspread.
Ash2: (sobbing) Misty…I'm so sorry!! I..I can't believe I did something like that!
Misty2: (scoots closer) Ash it was just an accident…
Ash2: (interrupts) That's no excuse!! (Misty draws back a little) I…I hit you. I hit the person I love!! Even if it was an accident it doesn't matter. I..I don't deserve you. I was freaking out and all you were doing was trying to help me. And that was how I repaid you.
Misty2: (forcefully) Stop it Ash, don't be so hard on yourself!
Ash2 is surprised by Misty2's forceful response and momentarily stops crying. He slowly turns to look at her. Misty smiles at him warmly and reaches up to wipe a tear away from his cheek.
Misty2: (talking sweetly) Tonight has been a really crazy night. All this stuff about Team Rocket, alternate dimensions, and saving the world came upon us pretty fast didn't it? And in the middle of it all you find you're long lost father. Ash, no one will blame you for being a little freaked out by all this. I'm not really sure how to handle it all myself. My point is that back then you were seriously stressed out and you weren't thinking straight. What happened was a total accident and I don't blame you. (puts her hand on his shoulder) I know all this has been really rough of you, and I want to be here to help you deal with it.
A small smile of relief appears on Ash2's face, but then he turns away from Misty2 again, pulling out of her grip and scooting to the edge of the bed.
Ash2: I already told you, it doesn't matter. Misty, you're so wonderful. I really don't deserve you at all. All I've done today is hurt you. I hit you and I yelled at you, but your still here, at my side. I haven't done anything to deserve your kindness. You say you don't blame me but…I can't stop blaming myself! So what if I was stressed? I still hurt you! I still raised my hand and struck my girlfriend out of anger. I never thought I could ever do something like that to you. It's unforgivable. I'm the lowest of the low. I'm…scum. I don't deserve to be in your presence.
Ash2 leans over, hands on his knees, and cries again. The tears cascade down his face and soak into his pants and the floor below. His shoulders shake with each sob. Misty2 watches with a mix of sadness and a little irritation before she stands up and takes a few steps towards the door. She then turns back and addresses Ash2.
Misty2: (using a stern tone) Alright Ash you idiot, if that's how you want to view it then fine, I won't try to change your mind. Keep beating yourself up and putting yourself down, I won't stop you. Cry all you want. But…(tone becomes softer again) If you think I'm going to leave you alone tonight your sadly mistaken.
Ash2 is suddenly taken by surprise when he feels Misty2's warm arms gently wrap themselves around his shoulders. Misty2 pulls Ash2 into her embrace and lays her head on his shoulder.
Misty2: (barely speaking above a whisper) I'll hold you until you stop trembling. If you don't like it, push me away. It's up to you.
Ash2 closes his eyes and feels the warmth of Misty2's body pressed against his. He feels the comfort of her arms around him, the gentle weight of her head on his shoulder, and the warm pressure of her breasts pressing into his back. More tears flow down his face as he reaches up and places his hand over Misty2's. He closes his eyes and leans back into her comforting warmth.
Ash2: (still crying a little, whispers softly) As if I could…As if I could push these arms away.
Misty2 scoots closer and hugs Ash2 to herself tighter. Ash2 continues to quietly cry and tremble in Misty2's arms as he lets out all his pent up emotions, not just concerning Misty2 but from the whole night. The two of them remain that way for a long time, comforted by each other's warmth and closeness, before falling back onto the bed to silently drift to sleep.