Watch Your Back

by Maia's Pen

COMPLETE! Trainers are mysteriously vanishing. Someone, or something, is on a violent kidnapping spree. When Gary Oak becomes the newest victim, Ash and his friends are determined to find out what is going on.

47. Chapter 46

AUTHORS NOTE: Here you go, as promised. Enjoy!

Chapter 46

Nothing happened.

Gary just lay there. The smoke had cleared, and the Pokemon was unmoving. Its eyes were intent upon the body before It.

Then, slowly, Gary sat up. The cuts on his arms were miraculously gone – like he had never been cut at all! Only the presence of the blood-filled cylinders were evidence of what had happened.

Gary's eyes were shut, but he rolled his neck slowly and cracked it. He reached his arms above his head, clearly enjoying the stretch. The Seer was standing - hands clasped in expectancy - by Gary's side.

Gary turned carefully towards the Seer; his movements were oddly rigid as though he were moving in slow-motion.

Gary opened his eyes and Misty stifled vomit.

Misery drenched her insides; the plasma in her veins had been replaced by liquid grief. It was like her heart had been discarded into a lost dungeon - her existence suddenly felt cold, damp and lonely. Wrong or right, Misty had loved Gary. And now, where was he? Gary's endearing blue eyes . . . where were they . . .?

Eyes that were completely black blinked open. The sparkle of life was extinguished. These eyes were darker than a starless sky. The ebony nothingness seemed to have eternal depth that went absolutely nowhere. They reflected nothing and were lack of even the scantest trace of emotion.

Gary Oak was truly gone.

The Seer bowed before the . . . Master and groveled at his feet.

Physically the Master was Gary. He was like a diabolic carbon copy –flawless aside from the eyes.

The Masters eyes washed over The Seer curtly - as though examining him. The Master stood cautiously on his stolen legs; balancing on them for a few moments before deciding that they were adequate. He shrugged his shoulders and slinked along the stage. He was silently examining the masses of Revivalists and trainers gawking back at him.

He did not walk like Gary. The way he moved was different; he seemed to lurk across the floor like a fiendish apparition. His legs and arms moved hastily, as though he were irritated. He cleared his throat several times, totally ignoring The Seer and his creature. The Master seemed to be mentally calculating much more important matters.

The Seer scrambled after him, bowing up and down. "You are here, Master! Three hundred years after your death and you have returned to us. We followed the prophecy and scroll . . . we revived you, Master! I am The Seer of this generation of Revivalists."

The Master paused, using Gary's lips to flash a wicked smile. "Ah, I understand, I am pleased. You have done well, Seer," the Master combed a hand through Gary's hair; as he did his expression tightened curiously. "What- what am I? I require a looking glass."

"Of course," The Seer fidgeted inside his deep pockets and pulled out a small hand held mirror.

The Master accepted it skeptically. Seeming slightly on edge, he glanced at his new reflection. His expression was unreadable; he traced his new face with his fingers. "Are you pleased, Master? Your Pokemon found the Chosen host body," The Seer was trying to muffle his nerves.

In response the Master displayed one of Gary's grins – this was the first time one of his mannerisms had even come close to mimicking Gary. Misty found it disturbing. She also found it bizarre that – after being dead for centuries – the Master's first concern was in regard to his appearance.

"I am youthful," the Master stated with surprise. "Almost too youthful . . . but, I suppose it could have been far worse. Age is but a state of mind. A youthful body means health. A wise mind means prosperity. Be at ease, Seer, this is well. This youth has a pleasant face and I see my new look as a good omen. Yes, yes . . ."

Suddenly the Master whirled around and looked to his Pokemon. The Master's face was one of remembrance. He regarded the Pokemon with only a nod, and the creature bowed lowly before him. "My loyal beast, you have done well."

The Pokemon bowed, but did not react with any sort of evident affection.

The Master smiled even more broadly, flaunting Gary's pearly whites. "This body is good, and the condition is favorable. I shall rein again, living for a long time!"

The Seer led the rest of the Revivalist's in a roar of welcoming applause. The Master grinned with slight arrogance.

The Seer rushed closer to his Master, fretting around him, offering to cater to any and all of his needs. The Master simply brushed him off, and The Seer bowed humbly before him again. "We are here to eternally serve you, Master."

The Master chuckled. "Of course you are. You a loyal Seer – just as you should be. I am proud of your efforts, Revivalists. And I will honor the reward that the scroll promises you. You will be granted lasting existence. And it will be yours as long as you honor and serve me. I control the beast of the ages. I alone can bend Its will to feed my desires."

"Oh yes! It will be our life-long honor to bow before you! We live to serve your wishes, Master."

"I doubt it not," the Master's tone was matter-of-fact. "Now that I have returned I will need to be informed of the current times. I must know what events have recently transpired here, especially," his black eyes washed over the captive trainers. "Who are these people? They are not Revivalists . . . they are clearly outsiders, Seer," anger filled the Masters voice. "You know that outsiders are NEVER allowed to enter our world!"

The Seer nodded vigorously. "Yes, Master. They will be out of your blessed way soon. Do not let their presence offend you. We only allowed them to witness your Revival as a reward for their obedience. They have been our prisoners for some time now. As the scroll decreed: we had to seek out the greatest Pokemon trainer for your soul to inhabit. Therefore we kidnapped the world's best and waged a private tournament in our base. The winner is your body, do you see, Master?"

The Master glanced in the mirror again. "I see, and I must admit that I am surprised that such a young man was the victor . . . though I am pleasantly surprised. I think that behind this youthful face I will be able to accomplish much more," The Master cast his evil eyes upon the trainers again. "Seer, these trainers must be disposed of immediately. They know far too much about our world. Releasing them is far too dangerous, far too foolish. You are not a fool are you, Seer? I can not have a fool of a Seer serving me."

The Seer stiffened. "N-No, Master! Only, my gracious Lord, we promised to free them as a reward for their obedience."

"I THOUGHT you said that their reward was witnessing MY revival! THAT is reward enough. THAT is a reward far greater than their meager lives are even worth!"

The Seer hesitated. "Of course, Master. You are right. But, they did promise not to breathe a word of our ways to the outside world-"

"We can not trust them. No! Eliminate them. All of them. They should be killed now. My Pokemon will burn their bodies."

"NO! THAT IS NOT THE WAY THIS WORKS!" Giovanni suddenly shot upwards, battling against his restraints. "WE HAD A DEAL!" he was actually shouting. His voice was drenched in anger. Misty had never seen Giovanni lose his temper before. But Giovanni had every right to scream - The Seer had promised them their freedom. They had submitted to the Revivalist's all this time because they had been assured they would be released along with their Pokemon.

The Master clenched his fists, his mouth opened as he prepared a verbal lashing for Giovanni. Only, the Master's words were dissolved by a most unexpected occurrence . . .

. . . In a fizzle of fuchsia light a . . . Pidgey randomly appeared above the stage. There was translucent bubble surrounding it like some kind of barrier.

What the. . .? Pidgey's can't use Barrier. They can't Teleport either. What's going on? Are we all going to die like . . . Misty's thoughts stung her ruthlessly . . . like Gary?

All eyes, even The Master's, fixated upon the Pidgey. Everyone seemed equally dumbfounded by Its sudden presence and apparent powers.

The beast at once stood on guard, Its eyes glaring with a curious malice. The Master's eyes grew even darker; they seemed overcast with a cloud of foreboding. "What? Where did that Pidgey come from?"

The Pidgey narrowed Its beady eyes. Misty squinted, examining the bird. Its eyes held an intelligence far superior to that of an average Pidgey.

The Pidgey began to glow softly; sparkling shades of lavender and pink cascaded over Its body in flowing ripples. Misty was forced to turn her face away, for the light was quickly becoming intense.

Nearly as soon as the lighting had begun it dissolved. The Pidgey had vanished! And in its place was an entirely different Pokemon! This one did not even resemble a Pidegy, rather, it was an innocent-looking pink kitten.

The kitten cocked Its head curiously to one side, Its eyes were focused directly upon something. Misty followed Its gaze . . . the kitten seemed to be staring at . . . Ash.

What? Why is that cat staring at Ash like that? I don't like this!

Misty's emotions battered against her mind, the crude potency of her confusion was more than she could endure.

The beast Pokemon did not react with any sort of surprise to this kitten's strange appearance, but, Its Master did.

"What?" The Master scoffed. "Another Legendary? Here?" he turned aggressively towards The Seer. "Did you know about this?"

"Oh, no, Master! It must have blocked Itself from our senses!"

The Master looked to his Pokemon for assurance. The beast nodded, confirming the validity of The Seer's explanation.

The kitten swirled about the air cautiously, focusing Its attention back upon the Master. The way it moved was magical, it seemed lighter and more buoyant than a rose pedal drifting in the wind. "Mew, Mew," it cooed with a voice that Misty hardly regarded as threatening.

Giovanni's ecstatic words burst forth: "Oh my God! It is a Mew!"

The Master acknowledged Giovanni with a curt nod. "Yes, it does seem to be so. This is not a good turn of events. A Mew's presence here is a bad omen. It signals doom for me. It must be destroyed along with the prisoners at once!" The Master glanced at his Pokemon, and the beast grunted with understanding. It took an ominous step towards the Mew.

Faster than a Rapidash, the Mew disappeared! It teleported from Its location above the stage and reappeared directly where Ash was kneeling on the floor. It hovered around him, purring encouragingly in his ear. Its mere presence was a strange comfort to Misty. She sensed that It did not intend to harm Ash, and that, perhaps, It wanted to help him.

Ash gazed solemnly at the Mew; his chestnut eyes were weary from tears. The Mew blinked and a neon-pink beam jutted forth from Its eyes, blasting the cuffs around Ash's ankles. The pink ray was strong, and instantly released him from his heavy binds. As the beam sliced through Ash's cuffs, the excess energy ricocheted outward and accidentally melted some of the lining on Misty's chains as well. Misty stared wide-eyed at her partially broken chains. Ash and the Mew seemed far too engrossed in one another to notice.

I wonder if I can snap these chains now? The metal has been almost melted all the way through. Gary wouldn't want me to freeze. He'd want me to get lose and find a way to help him. There HAS to be a way! I won't let him go like this. I can't believe that he's gone. I can't!

"Mew, Mew," the kittens voice was delicate, but held definite undertones of insistence. The Mew was gesturing for Ash to follow It.

Ash stared hard at the mystical feline; at first he didn't quite seem to understand what It wanted him to do, but then he nodded. He nodded with an odd air of confidence . . . as though he were grasping something that none else in attendance could.

The Master grumbled loudly. "That cursed Mew! It is SPEAKING to you, boy!"

Ash turned spitefully towards the Master. His eyes were wavering with heartache as he watched Gary's features become twisted. "I know that she is speaking to me," Ash spoke defiantly. "Mew wants me to fight with her. She has chosen me to stand up to you!"

The Master raised an eyebrow. "Indeed, boy . . . strange, this is . . . but it matters not," he laughed cruelly, distorting Gary's voice again. "I am no fool, boy. I know that a Mew is a formidable opponent. It is a noble creature; no doubt it aspires to save the trainers . . . Very well. I accept your challenge. I will fight you! It has been a long time since I have engaged in a battle with monsters! Too long! Come, let us engage! But I warn you, boy, you will not win!"

Ash shook his raven head of hair and took a dauntless step towards the stage. "You and Gary share a fatal flaw, Revivalist Master. And your arrogance will be your end just as it was his!" Ash was retaining an impressively bold front.

The beast Pokemon stalked to Its Master's side, It hesitated awkwardly before retaining a battle stance.

"Ash," came Brock's fearful voice. "Be careful!"

"Don't pull your punches," Lance added a warning.

The next chorus of advice came from Giovanni: "Mew is a Psychic type – watch your commands!"

Ash nodded, not taking his eyes from the Master. "I want my friend back!"

The Master squinted. "What? Oh, my host body?" He laughed wickedly, trailing a finger along Gary's jaw line. "He is long gone, boy. However, I assure you that yourself and the other trainers will be joining him very soon!"

"I don't wanna hear it. Let's go," Ash spat, aiming a threatening finger towards the beast.

The Master turned quickly to his beast. "Pokemon," he addressed It. "Attack, now!"

The Seer and Derrick quickly scrambled off of the stage; choosing to watch from the sideline where they were a safe distance from the impending fight.

"Mew, Go! Physic Attack!" Ash charged fearlessly toward the stage. He stood only a few feet below the Master and did not seem to care that he was potentially in the line of fire.

Mew moved like pink lightening! Before the beast could even think about ducking, Its brain was assaulted by a powerful physic ray. The beast flinched, staggering backward. It snarled as blood dribbled from Its nose.

The beast retaliated instantly, hurling a Fire Blast at Mew! The kitten deflected the assault with ease, hiding behind her Barrier.

"MASTER, BE CAREFUL!" The Seer wailed hysterically, peeking up from his hiding spot below the stage. "This may not be wise – a Mew is very strong!"

The Master lanced him with an irritated glance. "Seer, silence your whining or you will be my Pokemon's dinner!"

The Seer at once retreated to his hiding place.

As Mew and the beast exchanged another blinding series of blasts, Misty tore her eyes from the battle. I've got to try and ignore the fight and free myself. I know that I can break these chains. They are so close to snapping! Misty focused all of her attention and strength upon her binds. She tugged on them, banging the metal against the floor. The chains connecting her ankles to the floor were now only being held together by a frail wire of metal – the Mew's blast had melted almost all of the alloy. With a determined groan, Misty smashed the chains again. She winced as the metal scrapped against the sore flesh on her ankles. C'mon! BREAK! She stuck them again, and again, and again, and. . .

There! With a satisfying snap the metal chains cracked, wholly freeing her from her binds. The Revivalist's were all too absorbed in the battle to notice her as she limped towards Ash.

"POKEMON, HYPER BEAM!" commanded the Master.

"Mew, move!"

The beast roared loudly, unleashing a fierce Hyper Beam. Mew narrowly avoided this attack.

"AGAIN! Pokemon, strike that thing down!"

"Mew, Psybeam!"

Misty rushed to Ash, dodging the fireworks as Mew and the beast discharged equally devastating rays. So far neither Pokemon seemed to be gaining the upper hand. They were both unbelievably fast and powerful.

Ash noticed Misty at once. He frowned, trying not to become distracted from the battle.

Misty pushed past Ash, and started brashly up the stage steps. "STOP!" Misty screamed. "STOP!" she glared directly at the Master.

"Misty," Ash swiftly moved in front of her, making certain that his body stood between her and the Master. "Get back!"

"No, Ash!" Misty charged past him again. Her eyes never once left the face she so desperately longed to touch again. "I have to save Gary!"

Gary's handsome face stared back at her with zero recognition. "Gary," her voiced strained to remain strong. "Please, Gary, stop this!"

The Master only looked at her blankly, snickering.

Ash flagged Mew to stand down until Misty was out of harms way. He was frightened that she would get in the middle of the attacks. The beast noted Mew's descent and also paused Its assault.

Misty overheard Derrick laughing from the side of the stage, Misty chose to ignore him.

"Miss Waterflower," Derrick chuckled. "This is not some cheesy movie. Your voice is not going to magically revive him. Oak is dead – finally!"

"I can't believe that," Misty stated flatly. "I just can't . . . I won't," she looked to Ash, determination lacing her fair features. "Ash, let me fight him."

Ash's face paled with dismay. "No! No way! It's too dangerous, Misty. Plus, Mew chose ME. Not you. No offense, Misty, but she won't obey anyone else," Ash grunted with a frustration so thick it threatened to choke him. "Please get back. Don't be stubborn. This isn't the time."

Misty clenched her jaw, looking past Ash. Her eyes refused to leave Gary's face. "I won't let him go, Ash. I need Gary in my life," stifling a sob, she ripped her eyes from Gary's face and turned to Ash.

Her jade eyes pierced him with sincerity. She was exposing the full depths of her heart to him with unspoken words. Ash trembled slightly, overwhelmed by more sensations than the moment would allow him to grasp.

Misty sighed, not breaking their intimate eye connection. "I didn't mean to fall in love with him, Ash."

Ash's breath caught in his throat, he staggered backwards as though unclear of what she had just told him.

The Master began to laugh with even more madness than before. Both the beast and Mew cocked their heads, staring at Misty as though actually listing intently to her brave confession.

The Master calmed his chuckling and smirked suggestively at Misty. His eyes seemed to be examining her – sizing her up as though she were a Pokemon for sale. "Miss, if you love this body then who am I to deny you?" he winked sinisterly. "I will spare your life; after all you are a lovely girl. Perhaps you and I can become aquatinted? I think that you will find that I am a very powerful and awe inspiring man."

Misty wrinkled her nose, but before she could rebuttal Ash was in her face, squeezing her shoulders. "Misty! Oh my God, get away from him, he's a total creep! I won't let him hurt you! GET BACK!"

"No," Misty stiffened.

"Misty!" Ash tightened his grip on her shoulders, his eyes burning inside hers. "You might think that you love Gary. But I know that I love you. And I know that you love me. We have been falling in love for years. We have a relationship that is built on YEARS of trust. I know that you care very much for Gary, but the feelings you have for him were created in just a few weeks. Don't be reckless! Don't do something foolish! I LOVE YOU. Think for one second before you throw everything away for-"

"Ash, get out of my way," Misty warned quietly.

"NO! Misty, c'mon-"

Misty seized Ash by his robe collar and shoved him out of her way. Ash tumbled down the short set of steps and landed with a thud. He stood up immediately, surprised by how she had so easily thrown him aside. He was slightly bruised, but otherwise unharmed . . . physically.

Misty gasped; she hadn't meant to push Ash so hard. Once she was satisfied that he looked okay she peered upward to Mew, and with the most commanding voice she could muster began: "Mew, Psybeam! NOW!"

There was no sign of hesitation in the pink kitten. Mew instantly carried out Misty's order, striking the beast with a destructive Psybeam. The force of this Psybeam caused the beast to collapse. However, the beast regained Its footing at once and cast Reflect upon Itself.

The Master appeared truly ruffled for the first time. "Pokemon, do not allow that cat to harm you! KILL IT!"

The beast did not obey; instead, It did something remarkably odd. . . It sat down, simply gaping back at Its Master.

Misty took a cautious step backward, she was almost certain that this was a deception of some sort.

Out of nowhere, a horrific noise invaded her thoughts. It was like a commotion of white noise inside her skull! It was grievously painful! Around her, Ash and the other trainers were vainly trying to cover their ears – they could hear it as well.

As the blaring static continued, Misty realized that it was not an external sound at all. She was feeling this sound inside of her mind.

"OlD MAStEr, I rEGRet TO INfoRM you ThaT THIS IS GoodByE. I oNlY resurRected YOU BeCAUSE I HaD TO tEll YoU GooDbye, I Owed You ThIS MuCH afTer alL of our past TiMes toGether. I hAve GraNted You ThIS TIME NOW, a Final Chance TO BrEATH And BattlE OnCE MORe."

The Master gasped, stumbling backward with fright. His head was quaking back and forth frantically. "What? My precious, Pokemon! WHY? Do not do this, you –you do not mean it!"

"My OlD MaSter, But I DO. You arE My Master NO LOngEr – GARY OAK is My MasTer now. HE is Braver than yoU EvER were."

The Master crumpled to his knees, trembling violently. "Oh! This cannot be . . . he- he – the host body - he did not . . . NAME you did he?"

"Yes, He DID! He Is BrAve."

"NO! THAT FOOL!" The Master flung himself at the Pokemon, clutching the fur of Its chin. The Master's voice was spilling with more fear than Misty had ever thought Gary's voice box capable of. "You, Pokemon, you are the Missing Number Pokemon! It is not possible for you to have a name . . . there is a reason why you do not have a name just as there is reason for the sun to set each day. My host, the boy, he could not have done it. No one would ever do it – no one would throw away their life so hastily!"

"GaRY OAK DiD! He Is BravE!" the sound was smothering Misty's wits. She knew that she was screaming out loud because her throat was ablaze, but she could not hear herself over the thunderous voice.

What is that monster talking about? What has Gary done exactly? I don't understand! I can't focus over this roaring voice! Get it out of my head! I can't stand it inside of me!

"I WAS WorTH IT to GaRY Oak. HE Cares AbouT MonSters. HE IS MY MASTER NOW! I bElong to him – and . . . HE BElOngs TO ME. GooDbye, Old Master . . ."

The Master screeched uncontrollably! Misty watched in terror as Gary's body physically buckled, falling backwards like he had been a ball of trash discarded by the beast. The beast watched his old Master writhe in agony upon the stage floor. The beast seemed blatantly unregrettable about his actions; It did not even flinch as Its Master begged for mercy.

Misty held her breath. The voice had left her mind and the Master had suddenly fallen silent. She had little time to savor the relief, however, for the beast was now hunched over Gary's limp body.

"No! Don't hurt him!" Misty screamed. "What are you going to do to him?" she rushed forward, longing desperately to hold Gary's body – to protect his remains from the monster.

An unwelcome pair of hands gripped her shoulders. Misty whirled around angrily to meet Ash's stern expression. He gripped her with the force of an Arbok's wrap, Misty could not wriggle free.

"Ash, let me go! I have to go to Gary!"

"No, Misty, it's too dangerous! It could be a trap. I love you too much to lose you like this."

Misty opened her mouth to reply, only, her breath had snagged deep within her chest. Misty's heart faltered as tears of remorse vexed her eyes. "Ash, I know . . . I . . ."

"Hush, just come with me. Get back, please, Misty! He's gone," desperation stressed his voice.

Mew and the beast exchanged knowing glances; the two legendaries seemed to be privately communicating in their own telepathic way.

Finally, the beast returned Its attention upon Gary's stiff form. It nodded and Gary instantly began to move. He climbed to his knees with little effort, and then quickly stood up to his full height. He did not appear dizzy or perplexed in the slightest – rather, his posture eluded that he was incredibly steady on his feet for a person who had collapsed only moments ago. He released a tiny yawn as though refreshed after a goodnights slumber. Next, he brushed himself off – taking a moment to glance over his arms. He seemed relieved to find them unscarred. Sighing, Gary glanced upward; color had returned to his face. Gary's forehead creased, and his blue eyes grew wide as dozens of questions raided his mind. His gaze bounced around the stage, ardently searching for something.

Ash still had a firm grip on Misty; his hot breath was beating frantically against her face. He was just as nervous as she was that Gary was not really there– that they were hallucinating his miraculous return. "Is it. . . him?" Ash whispered faintly.

Misty's lip trembled; she watched Gary's thoughtful expression as his eyes swept the stage. "Yes," she breathed. "It's him."

Gary's head turned in Misty's direction. Their eyes fused instantly - flooding every corner and dark place of her mind with his love for her. Misty's heart was pounding erratically! The devotion she experienced was overwhelming - filling every ounce of her and making her feel more complete than she ever had before. "You're back," she mouthed, as tears slid down her cheeks.

Gary took a tentative step towards her, offering a lopsided smile. His crystal eyes shimmered with building tears . . . she had never imagined that he would cry, let alone cry for her. Gary took another step forward, the emotion within his face threatened to break him at any moment. If he did break, Misty knew that she would fracture along with him.

Ash's voice was the first to rupture the silence. "Gary?"

"Yes," Gary breathed, pausing as the beast approached him.

Misty's smile vanished as the fierce creature stood over him. Its scorching breath panted against his skin. Gary winced; the intense heat was already burning him. The beast was so close to him . . . It could vaporize him with one quick breath. Misty had just gotten him back! What if that thing hurt him again?

Gary turned toward the beast and It actually . . . nuzzled against him with – what seemed to be - affection.

What? Is Gary really Its master?

The Seer instantly fled from his hiding spot and rushed upon the stage. His quivering body suggested that he was about to have a nervous break down. His steps were staggered and his speech was slurred.

Misty had almost forgotten about The Seer and the rest of the Revivalists. They were currently unthawing from their shock.

"Pokemon of Miracles!" The Seer's sounded as though he were sobbing beneath his shroud. "Why has this happened? We have prepared so long for this day! All of our lives have been spent waiting for the Master's Revival. Why are you doing this? For a name? I –I don't understand! The scroll said nothing about a name . . . that you wanted one. You are THE Miracle Pokemon. Is that not title enough for you? Please, I beg of you, bring back our Master!" The Seer fell to his knees, begging and weeping.

Gary curled his lip with irritation; he took a fuming step towards The Seer. "No," he spat bluntly. "My Pokemon has made his decision. He wants me."

"No! NO!" The Seer wailed on, still crouching at the beast's feet. "Please, Pokemon, no!"

"I WanT GArY OAK! He IS mY mASTer Now! Bow AnD rEspEct hIm!"

Out of the blue,Derrick came charging at Gary. The Revivalist was infuriated beyond words. "That is NOT going to happen!" Derrick was shrieking with insanity. "I HATE YOU! I HATE YOU! YOU ARE GOING TO DIE!" In one swift motion Derrick pulled a shotgun from his pocket and aimed it at Gary's head. Derrick was less than twenty feet away from Gary, and, at such a close proximity there was little chance that he would miss.

Misty screamed, her head was splitting – she couldn't take one more thing. She gripped Ash's arm frantically to keep from falling over. Mew fluttered over to Misty and Ash, offering them both reassurances from her presence.

The beast narrowed Its eyes challengingly at Derrick. It considered Gary to belong to It, and It was not about to allow any harm to come to him.

Gary smirked, his tone scoffing. "Tch, don't bother, Derrick. My Pokemon will evaporate that bullet before It even leaves the gun barrel."

Derrick sneered. "Don't be so cocky, Oak . . . I have more than one bullet."

The Seer scurried over to Derrick. "Derrick, no, no, you mustn't! Put the weapon away, child! We Revivalist's do not use fire arms – you know this!"

Gary laughed bitterly. "That's odd," his expression and tone took on a vengeful air. "You seemed to have no problem zapping me, jabbing me with needles, gagging me with ropes, and slitting my god damn wrists! But guns? Guns are out?"

The Seer ignored Gary and focused his attention upon Derrick again. "Derrick, put the gun down. We must try to find a way to respect the Pokemon's decision – no matter how hard it will be. We must devote ourselves to the Pokemon and search for peace. By worshiping It we can still attain miracles!"

With his free hand Derrick whacked the Seer out of his way. "Shut up, old man! I don't give a damn about your Revivalist rules. I'm not even one of you anyways. I've been here, working undercover, for years."

The Seer gasped loudly with denial. "Derrick. . . n-no . . . I trusted you! You were my most loyal Revivalist!"

Derrick shrugged. "Ha, that shows what you know, Seer." The shotgun clicked as Derrick cocked the trigger. He focused upon Gary. "I wouldn't be feelin' quite so lucky if I were you, Oak! No WAY can your crazy pet stop ALL of the bullets!"

The beast snarled ravenously, preparing to take Derrick up on his challenge.

The Seer addressed his many frightened Revivalist's who were still lining the room. "Things have gotten out of hand. We must destroy the base immediately and everything and everyone inside it!"

Mew's eyes grew dark; she seemed to be anticipating something no one else could – not even the beast.

Derrick's finger itched on the trigger; the Revivalist's circled the trainers, Zappers in hand . . .

"PIKA PI!"

Ash was the first to turn towards the familiar sound . . .

"Pikachu?" Ash stammered, squinting into the darkness. "Oh my. . . IT IS YOU!"

Misty's eyes expanded with surprise! There, in the doorway, was Pikachu. It was undoubtable – Misty would recognize that special yellow mouse anywhere!

Standing proudly on either side of Pikachu was Jessie, James, and Meowth. But they were not the only ones - more Pokemon than Misty could even count suddenly began rushing in behind Pikachu! The Pokemon propelled inside like a torrential downpour! Each Pokemon like a raindrop, and, together flooding the entire room!

Blastoise! Arcanine! Nidoking! Charizard! Butterfree! Squirtle! Bulbasaur! Umbreon! Chikorita! Pidgeot! Sizor! Snorlax! Misty instantly recognized some of Ash's and Gary's Pokemon; but there were also countless Pokemon that Misty did not recognize- multiple Sandslashes and Sandshrew's, a Golem, several Tauroses, a Donphan, Jolteon, many Fearow's, a Ninetales, Ariados, Jigglypuff, Dewgong, Electrode, CorsolaBlissey Kingler, Farfethch'd, Magnemite, Alakazam, Delibird, Flaaffy, several Diglett's,a Magcargo, and even some Larvitar's!Even that headcount barely did justice to the enormous amount of Pokemon here now!

Blastoise shoved his way to the front of the crowd; his reptilian eyes zeroed in on Gary and the beast. Blastoise snarled as watched Derrick prepare to fire his gun. Blastoise had an uncanny aim – Gary had trained him well; for (from seventy feet across the room) he released a Hydro Pump so mighty that it succeeded in knocking the gun clear from Derrick's hand. Derrick yelped in surprise, clutching his tender fingers.

Gary's cerulean eyes drank in the long-awaited image of his precious Pokemon. Gary smiled thankfully as he and Blastoise shared a longing gaze. There would be time for a reunion later, but now the turtle's skills were needed elsewhere . . .

Once Gary was cleared from immediate danger, the Pokemon wasted no time in stampeding forward. They were at once engaged in a frenzied battle against the many Revivalists in the room.

It was sheer chaos in its most course and bloody form. The room had been twisted into an unholy snarl of thrashing limbs and flashing lights. The Revivalists were brutally Zapping the Pokemon with electricity, and the Pokemon were barbarically blasting the Revivalists right back with their own attacks. The room was engulfed by onslaught! It was a devastating battlefield – a free for all. Pokemon were screeching and bleeding everywhere and, likewise, Revivalists were wailing, dropping, and clutching wounded limbs all over the place.

The helpless trainers were still bound to the floor and could not even adequately shield themselves from the debris and deflecting energy blasts. Misty watched in alarm as Morty took the brunt of an out of control Ice Beam! His spiky blond hair instantly stiffened as ice crystals consumed the back of his head. Next to him was Falkner, who cussed loudly, reaching out to aid his freezing comrade.

In another row, Erica screamed as the ashes from a Flamethrower showered down upon her - singing her flesh like acid rain.

The Pokemon were beating back the Revivalists, but they were unable to avoid all the defenseless trainers trapped in the center.

A Revivalist kicked Pikachu unmercifully in the stomach. The electric mouse squealed in agony. Pikachu's cries suddenly jerked Ash from his trance. Ash was not going to allow his fear to cripple him. Yelling brashly, Ash practically drove head first into the gory mesh of fighting! He was rushing for his Pikachu.

Misty jumped backwards as a chair came hurtling in her direction. The chair had been indented to strike a Venomoth who was soaring overhead.

I'm going to be killed if I don't get out of the way! This is madness! We are ALL going to die! How did Pikachu find us? What is going to happen?

Misty huddled on the stage steps watching Ash flea towards the farthest end of the room. Pikachu had fried the Revivalist who had kicked him without Ash's help. Pikachu and Squirtle were currently double-teaming an especially tall Revivalist.

Misty was forced to duck again as Gary's Sizor darted past her. Sizor had just barely missed her head! Sizor had been so engrossed in his battle with a Revivalist that he hadn't even notice her.

Several feet to Misty's left, Ash's Charizard was being whacked with a metal baton. Behind Charizard, Butterfree was being electrocuted with a Zapper. All of a sudden Gary's Golem came rolling towards her! Misty yelped, scrambling out of the way! She thudded down on her already bruised knees. Golem was spinning at tremendous speeds. He knocked into a cluster of Revivalists - sending them toppling to the floor like bowling pins.

There were Ice Beams, Thundershocks, Fireblasts, Psybeams, Gust Attacks – everything going on everywhere! And the frantic crackling of The Revivalist's Zappers was suffocating the sounds of her own fearful screams.

Jessie, James, and Meowth zoomed skillfully about the war zone- they worked quickly to unlock the trainer's bonds.

Jessie freed Giovanni first, while Meowth unlocked Brock's restraints. Misty saw James aiding Tracey. In turn, Giovanni, Tracey, and Brock worked rapidly to free the others. Jessie and James had brought pockets full of wire cutters, wrenches, and lock-picking tools with them. Misty had to hand it to Team Rocket: they always seemed to be prepared with some new invention or handy gadget.

The Seer raised his arms in horror. "Jessie! No, not you too! You had such an honest face!"

Jessie shrugged as she freed Richie. "I'm a professional lair." She seemed proud to admit her lack of sincerity.

Richie instantly fled the room, announcing that he was going to find the captive Pokemon. Meowth and Tracey ran after him to help.

Misty lurched off of the steps and crammed her body against the wall. Once again she had scarcely evaded being crushed; this time by a random Graveler's Rock Throw.

This place is going to fall apart. The walls are cracking and smoking from all the crossfire. If this battle doesn't end soon the walls could collapse!

It looked as though the Pokemon were definitely gaining the upper hand now. Gary's Jolteon was cruising through the masses of Revivalists; it moved unscathed by their Zappers and easily bit and clawed them to the ground.

Misty had totally lost track of Ash in all the anarchy. But, she did see her sisters and Brock hiding underneath a table near the opposite wall. She also saw Koga and Lance charging like mad men at a pair of Revivalist's. The two Elite Four's fearlessly wrestled them down.

Misty's attention snapped back into focus on Gary. He and Derrick were shouting at one another from opposite sides of the stage. Misty could not make out a word of their ferocious verbal battle.

The screams around Misty slowly began to fade; the Revivalist's were almost all down on the ground. Misty noticed that the formerly captive trainers were making haste to shackle the Revivalist's within their former bonds.

Misty could now make out the gist of Gary and Derrick's argument. Derrick was cussing venomously and Gary was swearing back with equal vigor.

"I'm GOING to kill you, Oak!" Derrick threatened, hurling two Pokeballs of his own forward.

Gary took a defensive step backwards, his head bumping into the beast's hairy chest.

A ferocious Houndoom and Haunter materialized. Gary clenched his jaw and stalked towards Derrick. The beast shadowed his new master closely.

Gary's fingers frisked tediously through his hair; he smirked haughtily in Derrick's direction. "Derrick, I've been waiting a long time for this." Gary merely gestured towards Derrick's Pokemon and his beast leapt forward. Its body created a monstrous tremor as It landed. The beast whacked Derrick's Pokemon aside like they were pesky insects.

Mew swiftly teleported next to the beast; she was flicking her tail insistently from side to side, as though trying to communicate with the other legendary. The kitten seemed concerned about something.

Derrick gritted his teeth and staggered backwards several feet. His two Pokemon were knocked senseless, and now, he was unarmed completely. The beast followed Derrick as he moved, slinking hungrily towards the humans retreating body.

"Mew!" Mew fluttered about the beast's face, she seemed to be sternly warning It against attacking Derrick.

Gary took hesitant notice of Mew's alarm and raised his hand, instantly halting the beast's tracking. Gary grunted smugly, shaking his head. "What was that you said, Derrick? Remember, that night when you nearly beat me to death in my cell? C'mon, how can you forget? I distinctly recall you telling me that I wasn't ever going to win the tournament – and that I would never control the Pokemon," Gary laughed with bitter spite. "I bet you wish that you'd been a hell of a lot nicer to me now."

Derrick's body shuddered - more from frustrated rage than from fright. "I HATE YOU, OAK! I HATE YOU!"

Gary's expression broke, his breath seethed through his teeth. With a quick motion Gary signaled his beast to lay down on the stage floor. Like any well trained canine the beast complied at once with his master's order. Gary wanted to handle Derrick himself.

"WHY?" Gary's voice blared so loud that Misty could actually feel the strain in it. His hands began balling in and out of fists. "What the hell did I ever do to you?"

Derrick shook his own fist at Gary. "It was your father who started it! Dammit, Oak, your father stole my fathers idea! He ruined our lives!"
Gary's mouth dropped open, his features tightened. "You're insane. Our parents don't know each other-!"

"Shut up, Oak," Derrick screamed, stalking closer. "MY father use to work for your father. And your father swindled him! Double crossed him! My family fell into a finical despair that you can't even imagine!"

Gary shook his head, frustration creasing his brow. "No, that's not fair. Even if that's true, you can't blame me for that. I don't even talk to my parents. They've been away on a cruise for months now – I never see them. If my father did something . . ." Gary trailed off, seeming utterly flabbergasted for the first time in his life "I – I don't know what to say. But you can't blame me, and you can't blame my father! He may be a horrible dad, but he's a hell of a corporate business man. His transactions are honest. You must be mistaken-"

"NO," Derrick slammed his foot onto the stage. "That is NOT all: I had to start MY Pokemon journey late in life because I had to drop out of school and help to support my family. It always was my dream to get out and see the world . . . to train Pokemon. My- my mother managed to save up some money . . . and when she finally had enough she gave it to me to start my journey. I was sixteen then – SIXTEEN when I finally got to start my Pokemon journey! I only had a few coins in my pocket- just a few - but it was okay. It would have been just enough to get myself going. It was all I had in the world. My family was COUNTING on me to succeed! YOU could never understand the pressure I had on me: everyone watching me all the time, wanting for me to win. You've never felt anything like it, Oak. YOU are a spoiled, rich brat – you will NEVER know what it's like to have EVERYONE expecting the impossible from you!"

Gary's eyes wavered downward. "Yes," he breathed. "I do understand."

"SHUT UP! NO! You can't possibly know how I felt! How I still feel now. On my FIRST day out as a trainer, for my first battle, I met YOU."

Gary's head snapped upward with surprise. "WHAT? ME? We've met before? We've battled?"

"Yes, but I don't expect you to remember."

Gary shook his head again, clearly clueless as to who Derrick was.

Derrick huffed, continuing. "Don't look so surprised, you couldn't possibly remember me, Oak. After all, the battle was over within seconds. You won! And you had no mercy for me, no sympathy! None! Even when I TOLD you that it was my first battle . . . you just sneered, telling me it was tough luck. And then you ridiculed my battling techniques! You made fun of me in front of all those cheerleaders of yours! As I stood there, fighting back tears, you demanded that I PAY you the winners fee. I told you I had only a few coins . . . but - but you DEMANDED that I give them to you or else you would report me to the Pokemon League and have my license and Pokedex revoked. I was forced to empty out my pockets to you – it was humiliating! But, of course, YOU would not know anything about how that feels – you are filthy, stinking RICH! You are wealthy off of that Oak name . . . squandering money that you never even earned. My mother and father were devastated when I returned home, only hours after I left. I was broke, MY family was broke thanks to your dad. The look of disappointment on my father's face when I told him that I had lost to YOU, Gary Oak – oh God, it killed me! I realized then that I was a burden to them, a disgrace, and I ran away from home. A week after I left, I learned that my mother had died in a car accident. I was alone, wandering aimlessly, unable to keep a steady job . . . and then Team Rocket found me. They took me in. I finally found a place where I fit in, where I could be someone. I quickly climbed the ladder at Team Rocket and became one of their top agents. Now, as an undercover Rocket, I make good money. I have enough to send home to help my father out every few months. I send money to support him, kinda like YOUR old man does for you so that you can afford to stay in the lap of luxury!"

Gary's voice trembled. "Derrick, I. . . I'm sorry. I never realized-"

"Shut it, Oak. I don't want or need your pity. You took away my life, my dignity, my mother! You and your bastard father! You don't deserve to even be alive!"

Oh My God! Misty's mind screamed. I can't believe this! This explains why Derrick is so messed up . . . and he's a Rocket? I never saw THAT coming; I don't even know what to think anymore. Derrick is sick- he needs therapy. He can't blame Gary for all of this . . . even if Gary was unnecessarily cruel to him years ago – his family tragedies were not Gary's fault!

"Some way, somehow, I'm going to get you, Oak! You will not make a fool of me ever again!" Derrick lunged forward, lethal hands outstretched!

Gary's beast sprang into immediate action. It rushed to fill the gap between the humans, and wholly blocked Derrick's path. Next the beast raised Its massive paw – It was preparing to strike Derrick down permanently.

"No," Gary easily stilled the creature with his voice. "Wait," with painful hesitation the beast froze.

Derrick was shouting hysterically, trying to grab at Gary from around the beast. But the Pokemon was gigantic, and continually blocked him by merely twisting one way or another.

Lance rushed up the stage steps, darting to Gary's side. "Gary, are you okay-"

The beast unexpectedly whirled around; growling viciously at Lance. It apparently did not want anyone near Its Master – not just Derrick. Lance bleached, raising his hands defensively.

Gary calmed the creature with a simple glance. "Lance is my friend."

Lance stared hard at the beast, scrutinizing It as he took careful steps towards Derrick. The Dragon Master was quick to grab a hold of Derrick and physically forced him to the ground. Bruno was at Lance's side in a flash, helping him to crush Derrick in a mighty headlock. Jasmine rushed over to Lance and handed him a bundle of chains. Lance took them and bound Derrick's limbs.

Misty felt much better knowing that Derrick was going to be securely tied up. She couldn't stand the thought of him ever hurting Gary again.

As Derrick struggled against Lance and Bruno, the shroud on his face slipped backwards . . . at last revealing the man behind the dark hood . . .

. . . Derrick was a young man - no more than twenty one. He was just an average-looking guy aside from his horribly sad eyes. There was nothing particularly striking about Derrick - he had pale brown eyes and dull brown hair - he was not a guy that Misty would ever stop to take a second glance at . . . Derrick was the complete opposite of Gary. The complete opposite in every way.

He's not only insane and resentful . . . he's jealous. Gary is everything that Derrick has always wanted to be, but, of course never could. Gary has money, talent, charisma, and good looks. Derrick has absolutely nothing. And to top it off, he blames Gary for his family's ruin. My God . . . how terribly . . . sad.

Gary and Derrick locked eyes for one solitary moment. A tense release passed between them, and Misty could almost feel Derrick's hatred grow. Then, Derrick turned his face away . . . he was blinking back tears of shame and defeat.

"I remember you now," Gary whispered regretfully. Derrick only flinched at his words, refusing to look up at him. "I'm . . . sorry . . . "

Misty looked away, the devastation in Gary's eyes was agonizing. She glanced across the room - the trainers and Pokemon had successfully tied up all of the Revivalist's . . . there was only one Revivalist that she did not see: The Seer.

Lance's voice drew her attention back to the stage. Misty stood up, finally feeling safe enough to leave her hiding place along the wall.

Lance squeezed Gary's shoulder. "Gary, are you alright? Did Derrick hurt you?"

Gary was trembling slightly; he gazed up at the Elite Four Master and sighed. "No, I'm okay, Lance, thank you."

"You won't have to worry about Derrick or the Revivalists ever again. They are all going to jail for the rest of their lives," Lance's voice held zero doubt.

John Dixson suddenly appeared from behind a curtain on the stage. He was dragging a newly roped Seer along with him. "Hey, lookie who I found hidin' behind the stage!"

Lance and Gary shared a feeble grin. "Good job, John," Lance snatched The Seer's shroud from his face. It was time they knew who the mastermind behind their hell was.

Misty gasped. "Oh! That's HIM!"

She would never forget the old man. She could not erase the memory of those wrinkles or that pallor skin if she tried. How could she ever forget those cruel, thin lips? Those oyster-grey tuffs of hair? Those cold, unfeeling eyes . . .? It was him alright, Misty was certain.

From their higher position on the stage, Lance and Gary stared down at her. The Seer only glared - tears were welling in his slate-grey eyes.

"He's the man that kidnapped Tracey and me in Viridian City!" terrifying memories plagued her. He was the old man who had lured Tracey to Viridian with promises of a career in Pokemon watching! He was the man that bribed her to follow Tracey . . . that locked her in that mansion - in that room - with the creature! He had been The Seer himself all along. The Seer had personally seen to her capture. Misty felt nauseous; she wavered dizzily on her feet, trying to stable herself along the wall.

"Misty!" Gary called, urgency bubbling in his eyes.

"I've got her," Ash yelled. At once he was behind her, steadying her footing.

"Thank you," she whispered to Ash . . . a part of her wished that it was Gary who held her now.

Gary stared at her and Misty did not need ears to hear the whisper in his heart . . . Gary was longing to hold her too.

I need to go to him! I need to just be in his arms. He has to hold me.

Misty tried to pull herself from Ash's grasp; she did not want to waste anymore time . . . she was going to go to Gary now and tell him how she felt! At this point she didn't care if every trainer and Revivalist in the room were her audience.

Ash interpreted her movements as a sign that she was about to faint and he held her tighter.

The more she wriggled the fainter she felt.

I feel so . . . dizzy . . . what is wrong with me . . . I need to go to Gary. . .

Misty moaned, losing the physical strength to even verbally protest. Her body was threatening to shut down. She was dangerously fatigued – she needed to sleep.

I might not make it to him, my eyes are so heavy . . . but at least Gary is safe, Misty assured herself. We'll be freed soon, then. . . I will tell him everything . . . we can be together. Nothing can hurt us anymore. I can't wait to tell him how I feel. I can't wait to hear him say the words back . . . I love him. I know that he must love me too. She smiled woozily, nearly drifting to sleep in Ash's arms. Her eyelids felt as though they bore an intolerable weight. With her head resting safely upon Ash's chest, Misty relaxed, allowing her body to finally recharge. As much as she needed to go to Gary, she knew that she would only fall flat on her face if tried right now.

"Oh, Pokemon," The Seer blubbered desolately. He was tied up back-to-back with Derrick. "Please save me! Save us, Pokemon! We are your servants. We have worshiped you since our births! Do not let them take us away!"

Derrick elbowed The Seer painfully hard. "Oh my God, shut up!"

The Seer cried harder – Derrick's elbow had obviously hurt.

The beast was completely uninterested in The Seer's pleas. It ignored him, nuzzling gently against Gary's face again. Gary and his Pokemon gazed at one another. Misty realized that they were communicating with unspoken words. In a moment Gary reached upward and rested a shaky hand upon his forehead. He winced as though he were uncomfortable.

"What is it?" Lance asked him, concern tainting his voice. Mew was hovering around Gary with alarm.

Gary addressed Mew, Lance, and the rest of the trainers earnestly: "My Pokemon is talking to me . . . he . . ." Gary sighed, turning to Lance. "Y-Yes, Lance, take the Revivalist's away. You all need to go now. You need to get back to your lives. But, before you all leave, please, don't reveal too much information about my Pokemon to the public. He wants only me to do the studies. He wants only me to determine his type. And I'll need time to conduct my research. My Pokemon wants me to follow procedure - the same way I would for any other new species discovery. I will work with him and then, when I am ready, I will file an application for a Pokedex number for him, okay? He doesn't want to be treated differently, he wants to be the same as the o-other Pok-kemon," Gary suddenly seemed short of breath, whatever the creature was saying to him was clearly distressing.

Lance and Bruno swapped fretful expressions. "Um, okay," Bruno's booming voice was cautious. "Where are you going to study It, Gary? I'm not sure the creature should be allowed to simply roam free. It's dangerous. You should keep It in Its Ultra Ball . . . in fact, we can get you a Master ball for that-"

The creature snorted and Gary cried out. "NO!" Gary snapped. "No! He doesn't want that! Don't say it, Master Bruno! I-" he winced again. "I, I mean, we - we are going away . . . into the lost Mountains . . . off the east coast that surrounds the Orange Islands. We have to go alone. I –ah- we – WE need time and privacy for the studies. This can't be rushed, Masters, please, understand. I won't let him get out of hand. No harm will come to anyone."

"Gary," Lance's voice was stern. "How do we know that It won't turn on you and wreak havoc on innocent people? It really needs to be contained. You know this. Besides, you don't look well. You need to go to the hospital, get checked out."

"You don't understand!" Gary almost shouted, his eyes were pleading with Lance. "You've got it all wrong, if I DON'T go away with him – NOW – then he WILL lose control again! He hasn't had training or disciple – ever. I can feel his need for these things inside me. I can feel the conflict within his mind . . . Lance, he demands that I go with him. Just for a while. Once I've gained control I-I can come back. I will come back and submit my research."

"Gary! That's insane!" Lance seized Gary by the shoulders, shaking him firmly and forcing eye contact. "It's a Pokemon! Put It in Its damn Pokeball and go to a hospital! You caught IT! It HAS to obey you!"

"Lance . . . I'm afraid it may be the other way around," Gary whispered, avoiding Lance's stare.

"What do you-"

"Mew, Mew," the kitten interrupted Lance's words, cooing insistently.

A shroud of sweet warmth was suddenly draped around Misty's mind. Ash also relaxed next to her . . . this calming presence was inside her, and it had apparently invited itself into everyone's head; for all of the trainers were strangely at ease.

The essence of this wonderful warmth . . . what was it? It entered Misty's mind in the same fashion as the beast's voice had: like a projection of thoughts. Only, this presence was not at all forceful - this was a gentle, singing voice; one that Misty welcomed within her mind.

Mew blinked tenderly, and almost seemed to glow with a thoughtful remorse . . .

"Gary Oak must go with his Pokemon. The Pokemon has been named. Gary Oak's alliance and soul belong to It now. He must stay with his Pokemon forever. If he were to leave It then It would lose all sanity and the world would be in more turmoil than any Legendary could ever have the strength to reverse. Even the former Master of the Pokemon would not name It because he did not want to lose his freedom. He wanted to live his own life. But Gary Oak did name It. Now, he must go away with It – far into the mountains. The farther the better. Gary will study It, he will do as It requests. He will make a grand study, a grand discovery . . . he will discover the depths of Its healing and resurrecting powers. This Pokemon is far more ancient than I am . . . But I feel Its nature and Its reasons. I also understand why The Revivalist's tried to hide It for so many centuries." Mew turned to Gary, staring at him intently. "Be cautious, young Oak, when publishing your discoveries . . . you alone know the Pokemon's identity. Its name wields strange power. Making that name public could very well be your death, that is . . . if It ever allows you to die."

Mew turned her focus on the beast. "Might I go with you, Pokemon? Might I follow you into the Mountains? Perhaps, in time, I can help you to understand why your old masters control over you was wrong, and in turn, why it is wrong of you to cast a similar fate upon this child. You tricked him. He was innocent – innocent as you once were too, no doubt."

The beast bowed Its huge head – surprisingly, allowing Mew's request.

As Mew's sweet voice melted from Misty's mind, a blazing shot of adrenaline bolted throughout her system. What is going on here? Misty panicked! What did Mew mean? What was going to happen to Gary? He was alive, but . . . he wasn't coming home . . .? He wasn't going home with her . . .? Weren't they supposed to finally be together . . .?

Blastoise and Sizor groaned loudly – protesting Mew's words. The rest of Gary's Pokemon joined in - and it was the most terribly mournful chorus Misty had ever heard.

The beast glared at the Pokemon and snatched a hold of Gary's robe in Its teeth - pulling him in possessively. Gary began sweating under the heat of the monsters breath.

Lance shifted nervously. "It seems that we have no choice but to respect the path that fate has chosen for you, Gary. I'm so sorry. I wish that you would change your mind."

Abruptly, Richie, Tracey, and Meowth burst excitedly into the room. Richie's Pikachu, Sparky, was at his side. All four of them were holding sacks filled with Pokeballs. "Look," Richie announced. "All of our Pokemon! I have them! They're okay!"

A flood of trainers raced at Richie - all incredibly eager to see their Pokemon again. It had been their love for these Pokemon that submitted them to the Revivalist's blackmail to begin with. Misty's heart thundered with excitement. Staryu, Politode, Starme, Psyduck . . . all of them! I need to see them! I have to collect my Pokeballs.

Brock ran to Misty and Ash, enfolding them in a much-needed group hug.

"I love you guys," Brock cried into Misty's ginger hair. "Everything will be okay now."

Ash was only sniffling in response. He was far too emotional to verbally reciprocate his best friend's endearment. Misty hugged both guys back tightly; it felt wonderful to be together again - without chains and ropes weighting them down.

Out of nowhere, a thunderous buzzing roared in the distance. This blaring hum was followed by . . . sirens!

It took Misty a moment to realize that what she was hearing were police helicopters!

"Oh my . . . w-we're saved . . ." Misty sobbed. She was overwhelmed . . . after so many nights of enduring so much pain . . . it was over. Tonight she would sleep in her own bed.

"That sounds like Officer Jenny's helicopter to me!" Brock swooned playfully, stealing a giggle from Misty's tear soaked lips.

Pikachu scurried hastily over to Ash, Brock, and Misty – he leapt into Ash's arms and licked his face frantically.

Ash squeezed Pikachu, stoking the fur between his long ears. The mouse was beaming proudly. "Pika, pika!"

Ash chuckled, easily understanding his Pokemon's babble. "Oh wow, really?"

"Pika, pi!"
Ash grinned with amazement. "So, this is what Gary meant by cavalry. Geeze! He wasn't kidding, was he, Pikachu?"

Pikachu chirped happily, continuing: "Pi, pi, pi, Pika! Pikachu."

Ash translated: "Pikachu said that he sent some Pidgey's out to get the police. Good work, Pikachu! You saved the day – you saved our lives!" Ash cuddled his dear Pokemon even tighter than before. "I'm so proud of you for disobeying me and coming after us!" Ash laughed merrily, adding: "just don't do it again."

Pikachu puffed his red cheeks, blatantly disagreeing to make any such promise.

Brock spun Misty around to face him and they shared a private hug. Misty smiled against him despite her aching body. As Brock released her, her eyes landed upon the stage.

Gary was there . . . alone with his beast.

Lance and Bruno had left the stage to reunite with their own Pokemon. Gary's Pokemon were alone in a corner – gazing at him longingly. They did not try to approach Gary . . . they somehow knew that the beast would strike them down out of jealously if they dared. Gary's eyes moved slowly from his band of brave Pokemon to Misty.

His eyes played an endless looping chant of regret, pain, and sorrow. Gary wavered in place like a phantom; his arms were shivering as though invisible waves were chilling him beneath his skin. Misty could feel his walls of insecurity and fear closing in around him . . . she could feel him shutting her out. His azure eyes haunted her - numbed her in place . . . she was losing him. Gary was locking her out. He was going away with the beast - the beast owned him. It was not going to allow him to love anyone else, or to be loved by anyone else. The beast was snuggling against Gary again; It seemed so devoted to him . . . and yet, It was tormenting him silently. It was hurting him in ways he was not free to voice. It was forcing him to lock her out.

The beast was pulling Gary beneath waves that were far too deep for Misty to reach.

"No," she breathed. "Don't."

Gary blinked, sealing the lock, and drowning fully beneath the beasts will.

Ash grabbed Misty's hand and began pulling her towards the rooms exit. "Misty, let's go, the police are coming! You need medical attention right away."

Misty shook her head vigorously, protesting. To her horror Brock actually picked her up and slung her over his shoulder! Brock was physically taking her towards the exit.

"Brock, no, stop!" she objected loudly.

Brock continued walking. With every step he took, Gary became farther and farther away . . .

. . . and, Misty's desire to hold him only became stronger and stronger.

"Brock put me the hell down! STOP!" she charged fiercely, thrashing her legs. Misty NEEDED to go to Gary - to be in his arms! She would have given up her freedom all over again if it meant holding him one more time.

"It'll be okay, Misty," Ash assured softly, jogging alongside Brock. "You're not in your right mind now. You haven't been yourself at all lately, please relax! I'm worried about you. We'll be home soon enough. And I'll never let anyone harm you again."

"I can take care of myself, Ash! Brock, let me go!" Misty's head was spinning at hammering speeds. She squirmed madly, causing Brock to only reaffirm his grip. He was certainly struggling to hang onto her jerking body - but he wasn't going to allow her to rush at that monster and risk being killed. The thing was dangerously obsessed with having Gary all to Itself.

"No," Brock stated flatly, steeping through the doorway and into the hall. "If you go near that creature It will kill you! Ash and I aren't going to-"

The sirens shrieked louder with the promise of safety!

Brock forgot his words; his pace quickened as he rushed down the corridor. He was following the trail of other trainers towards the sound of the police sirens.

The emergency alarms were blaring now. They would be with the authorities soon.

Misty's sobs fell upon deaf ears . . . Gary was fully lost from her sight. He had named the demon and lost his freedom.

He was doomed to serve his Pokemon in solitude forever.

She was doomed to a life without him.

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AUTHORS NOTE: Well, that's that. Phew! What can I say Gary equals Angst! NOT MY FAULT! ehehe. . . anyways, all that's left is the epilogue / concluding chapter. OMG. . . ONE CHAPTER! I can't believe it. And, yes, it really will be one and ONLY one chapter. It's already drafted. I have 2 & 1/2 VERY busy weeks of school coming up (finals ect.) so I won't get around to updating for a few weeks. I need to take my time making the ending perfect. I really need your encouragement! Ending this is not easy. Wa! Wub and HUGE, MASSIVE thanks always, Maia