Disclaimer: If I owned Pokémon I'd have lots of money. I don't have lots of money so… I don't own Pokémon.

Categories: AAML, Angst

Rated: T just to be on the safe side

A/N: Because these chapters are very short there are two of them!

Stormy Nights

Chapter 2: When the Radiance of the Sunrise Dispels the Night…

It had been so beautiful four years ago on the morning of April 1st that there wasn't even a hint of the misery that would befall us in only five short days. When I woke up the sky was still dark and for a while I watched them sleep. They seemed so peaceful that I couldn't bring myself to wake them yet. So I enjoyed the sunrise alone. There was not one cloud in the sky and the colors at daybreak were spectacular. The temperature was perfect and flying pokémon could be heard singing happy songs. In my heart I can still hear them singing. Their beautiful voices simultaneously performing multitudes of choruses blending together in absolute perfection to create a symphony of souls. It was a perfect morning. My perfect morning.

The three of us had risen near the beginning of that day because we wanted to start traveling early. We only had less than a week to get to Indigo Plateau so despite the date – there weren't any pranks before breakfast. For the same reason we spoke very few words as we shared our meal and readied ourselves for the journey ahead. Our pokémon even shared in the serene atmosphere. No one was grumpy that morning even though we were up very late the night before. Thinking back on it, I now realize how extraordinarily precious that morning was.

There was very little small talk even as we traveled and not even a hint of malice. We didn't argue or get lost at all. This would be our 7th year to make the trip together. The Pokémon League competitions would start soon so there was a feeling of excited anticipation in the air that grew stronger as we closed in on the plateau. Much of the day was peaceful and there was no sign of Team Rocket anywhere. It seemed as though time almost stood still for us. It was a wonderful day.

Chapter 3: Moving Forward From This Point

"Misty, are you okay?" His shaky voice interrupted my reflections for the second time that day. The distress on this face startled me more than the cracking in his voice.

Our eyes met for an instant, "I'll be okay Brock." I mumbled while regaining my composure.

He looked unconvinced. "Misty, after everything that has happened…" He trailed off as if he ran out of words. He allowed a heavy sigh to escape his lips as he dried his eyes and continued. "I'm still not okay. Hell, I don't know if I'll ever be okay." Locking eyes with mine briefly he finished by saying, "I've lost too many people in my life. I don't think I can stand it if I lose you too. You're the only friend I have left." With that said he pulled me into a big bear hug.

His actions and words showed me the true nature of his delicate state. I was unaware that his need of encouragement was so great. Pulling away slightly I brushed back my tears and attempted to smile. Reassuring him I said, "I will be okay. I promise! I've just got a lot of things on my mind right now." Turning as I pushed myself up off of the bed I finally broke eye contact with him and started walking toward the doorway.

He didn't say a word to me as I exited my bedroom. He just stood up silently and followed me as I went from room to room. I was staring out the kitchen window at the storm-ravaged mess that was my backyard when he finally spoke to me again. "Misty…" He trailed off again unable to continue – his attempt to break the uncomfortable silence failing miserably.

"Brock, I know you're right. Neither of us can make this journey alone." I responded without diverting my gaze from the scene outside my window. Without making eye contact I turned to look at him again and continued. "As much as it hurts we have to go. This is for our healing as well as to honor Ash."

For the first time that day he smiled – it was a halfhearted smile but it was genuine, "S-so, you'll let me help you pack?"

Shaking my head in response to his question I pointed towards the hall closet. "I'm sorry Brock…I lied. I've been packed for three weeks."