I'm Gonna Stand by You
Summary: Link to and before 'I'll Be Here Waiting' story. This story is about Misty and Ash become friends and secret lovers throughout their travels and meetings. As well Misty's conceal special ability to understand pokemon. Not to mention unknown mystery about Pikachu's past life link to all god Pokemon and his job in protecting the Chosen Ones, especially Golden.
Pokemon is owned by its creators, not me. I just own this story. That said this story will be within the pokemon universe, yet it will be my AU, meaning it wont be the same path as the current pokemon show is going. That means no unnecessary flames from pokemon fan nuts who wants me doing my story like the show (or manga). Cause that's not happening. After all this story (and others link to it) is for my enjoyment. If you hate it, than just don't read it.
Moving on, this story is link to my unfinished story 'I'll be Here Waiting' as well others in the work as prequels. That leads to a bigger story i'm working on, called 'Aurora'.
Now that's all said. A couple more things and i'll be done.
Everyone is OOC
Italic : thoughts.
Bold/Italic () : pokemon speaking between them and Misty/Mind-link speaking to others.
AN: Unlike the beginning of the series where tech is limit, especially when it comes to online connection. I'm making the poke-dex be more advance in functions, including making calls, despite the phone signal connection is terrible and only works within high tech cities while barely works anywhere else.
With that all said on with the chapter.
Chapter 2 : A Mom's warning/ A overlooked attraction/ Sharing meals
The morning after visiting Poke-tech two days ago
How could I be such an idiot? Thought Misty, sitting at an empty table in the front lobby of the Pokémon center.
Just recently leaving the Poke-tech to return to their campsite. Misty felt something was wrong, and without questioning the feeling, she released Starmie from its pokeball to discover the star Pokémon haven't healed as it usually can. Therefore, forgetting about their breakfast Brock re-started on. Misty, along with her male traveling companions, rush for the closest Pokémon center. Luckily, there was one not too far from the Poke-tech. However as soon as the Nurse Joy noticed Starmie's ill state, she scold Misty for leaving her Pokemon out of its ball in the bad shape it was in.
Yet when Ash had pointed out that Starmie had been placed in its Poke-ball after its last battle at Poke-tech. It was there Joy realized why Starmie didn't heal once in its Poke-ball after learning the head student of the beginner class at Poke-tech, Giselle was Misty's opponent. It seem, unknown to them, that Giselle and other higher up students usually apply a certain kind of repelling cream for rock Pokemon that brings no harm to the coated pokemon, but actually poison it's opponent enough that even placing the pokemon poisoned into its ball wouldn't heal it even water ones. In fact the pokemon would need immediate medical attention after being poison, that's why that kind of cream isn't allowed used outside Poke-tech. Late news unfortunately for Misty and her star Pokemon.
Thereby, after Joy apologize to Misty for believing she mistreated her pokemon. Starmie was instantly sent to the emergency room to be treated for poison. Unfortunately with the poison had seep in Starmie's crack jewel. The star pokemon needed to recover from its injure jewel after the poison was removed from its body. Leaving Misty remaining at the Pokemon center for nearly two days since arriving.
But even though Starmie was better and now secure within its Poke-ball. Misty still can't stop feeling ashamed of herself. Mostly since not only is Starmie her first pokemon and friend, but it's the first one she learned to understand Pokemon language with. Thereby with their strong bond she should of noticed sooner of Starmie's bad situation instead of when she did.
That's why currently falling deeper in thought of her neglecting actions toward her pokemon, to bury her face within her arms on the table. Misty doesn't hear her name being called serval times across the lobby. Therefore she's caught off guard by a coldness pressed against her bare arm, causing her to instantly jolt up within her seat.
Quickly she whips her head to the side to see none other than Ash standing by the table, who was in motion of drawing back his hand holding a glass bottle of milk that clearly was the source of the coldness lingering now on her skin.
Yet before she gets a chance to shout at the raven-haired boy. Ash speaks while taken the seat aside the other 10-year-old. "Sorry about that," still talking he places the take-out box with a white bag on it in his hand, upon the table beside where he left the glass bottle of milk. "But calling out to you wasn't doing it." At his explanation, Misty gives a slight huff, crossing her arms over her chest.
"But pressing a cold drink to my bare arm?"
"It worked." Ash simply says, before pushes the take-out box over to Misty. "Anyway I got you some breakfast." He added than opened the box revealing to Misty crepes filled with berries, coated in chocolate sauce and whip cream. "Since you seem to been looking forward to Brock's crepes, I thought it a good idea to order some from the cafeteria's cook for you." After pulling out the plastic utensils and napkins from the white bag, resting them on the table for Misty. Ash plucked out a wrapped up breakfast sandwich he got from the display counter within the cafeteria.
Although I had to pay for this today special. I hope this berry, sausage and egg sandwich is good. While Ash in motion of unwrapping his sandwich to eat. Didn't know Misty was having some trouble.
Despite she can feel her stomach craving the delicious looking food and she haven't really had anything to eat since coming to the center. Two things was having her hesitating.
Aware of how the Pokemon Center's cafeteria functions. Misty knows that custom-made orders from the cook cost money unlike the display food on the counter in the cafeteria that's free of charge to trainers and travelers of the center. Furthermore from rumors she's heard that each made order cost more then it normally would at a restaurant. Meaning Ash probably overpaid for this plate of crepes. Addition to that because he had everything to go, the preteen was charged for his entire order, including any food displayed in the cafeteria. Being you can only eat the food -that's not custom-made- within the cafeteria to not be charged. Thereby she didn't want Ash doing something like this for her when she knows he rather not have her as a traveling companion.
In fact he stated this back at the campsite a few minutes before she sense something was wrong with Starmie within its Poke-ball.
That's why as Ash is in the middle of taking a bite of his sandwich he catches Misty push away the take-out box while asking, "Why?" Causing the preteen to halt his sandwich from his mouth to place on the table as he, blinking his eyes look back to the orange-haired girl who's not even looking over to him.
"Why what, Misty?" Still keeping from looking in his direction, Misty shakes her head.
"Why did you do this?" Another question making Ash just more puzzled at the other preteen's behavior.
"Well I saw last night at dinner after you return Starmie to its poke-ball full of health. That you never ate the dinner Nurse Joy brought you. Come to think about it you barely ate anything since we got here. And we've been here for nearly two days. So I thought I get you some breakfast before we leave later today."
If Ash was thinking this would fix Misty's odd negative behavior to him offering her something to eat. He clearly is wrong by Misty's next words.
"But why? By your own words back at camp. You've rather have 'pretty' Gisele as a traveling companion then bossy nasty Misty." Immediately, with his eyes widen, Ash opened his mouth only to close it since he couldn't deny he had said that comment to Brock when he thought Misty wasn't nearby to hear him. So unable to defend himself from Misty's fact, the raven-haired lean back in his seat, hanging his head while Misty continue talking.
"So I ask again why did you spend unnecessary money on somebody who you clearly wish wasn't around you. In fact I'm surprise you're even here when you could of already left when you learned I was staying until my pokemon was better. But don't worry once we exchange contact to stay in touch so you can reach me when you got me another bike. We don't need to travel together-"
Ashamed of his comment back at camp toward Misty now. Ash remembered why he said that in anger then. He had still been some what mad at her for her remark about that her and him couldn't be friends like Gisele and Joe. Where she stated it wasn't possible because he owed her a new bike. And although he laughed it off, he was hurt. Despite he brushed off her comment of his win being a fluke to Joe not long after she said it.
However before those remarks were said by Misty, unknown to her and Brock, and despite he was questioning if they were really friends, regardless it was in secret, because of the continued arguments and fighting between them and her insulting him constantly thereafter. Ash, after witness how upset Misty was about her defeat from Giselle who was still belittling her, not only forgetting about how pretty Giselle is to battle her, but, had battled the head student to stop her from insulting Misty, despite he became Giselle's target to mock.
Yet despite Ash's words during speaking with Brock back at camp. Not only couldn't he help himself in worrying about Misty's gloom state instead of Starmie -which the star pokemon was in good hands at the center- that when Brock asked if they were going to leave Misty here and continue on their travels. He played off that they couldn't leave until they knew Starmie was ok.
Fortunately with Brock fine with the decision, that Ash didn't have to explain himself. During silently watching Misty these couple days as she remained by the fish tank Starmie was healing in. He found himself remember a lesson his mother told him or more like warned him. 'True beauty is only skin deep. Do not fall simply for a pretty face, because that pretty face might carry something ugly within. And discovering what Giselle caused Starmie to be poison and not once informed any of them after the battle that the star pokemon would need immediate medical attention. Meaning she didn't care what happen to Misty's pokemon. And in Ash's book when you disrespect any pokemon no matter who you are. You're worst of the worst in his eyes.
Resulting him taking in his mother's lesson more closer, thereby, despite his mean remark about Misty to Joe that her looks and attitude couldn't compare to Giselle's. In the short two days they been at this center. Ash has notice Misty's true beauty within, mostly in her concern for her pokemon instead of her own well-being.
Leading to him now making sure she has ate something before they leave this center that's once his pokemon are finish with their check over. However, even though he don't know where they stand as friends weather in secret or not. Ash can't allow Misty to think he really wish she wasn't here.
"I was wrong." By those unexpected words reach her ears. Misty finally looks over to the raven-haired to see he's leaning back from the table, and by his cap tilted down hiding most his face. Misty couldn't read his expression.
"About what?" Though she still couldn't see his face, she heard him let go of a heavy sigh.
"About telling Brock I rather have Gisele here instead of you." Remain avoiding looking at the other preteen. Ash stares ahead, looking outside the glass front entrance to see Brock flirting with a Officer Jenny who didn't seem to want the teen's attention. "Because believe it or not," It's here Ash finally turns to Misty. "I'm happy you're traveling with me even if I still owe you a new bike." Ash gives a side grin at her at that last part, causing Misty to roll her eyes. Yet he can tell her expression was playful. "After all what kind of friend would I be to overlook a friend in need right. Those are the same words you told back at Poke-tech." Getting Misty is now in a good mood and they might be good. Ash reaches for his forgotten sandwich, hoping it wasn't cold.
"Yeah those were my words. Then again my only experience when it comes to friends, are pokemon. Because I only been able to befriend pokemon. In fact if we are still once again friends in secret. Then you're my first non-pokemon friend."
For the second time, Ash halts in biting into his sandwich as he stares back at Misty, speechless.
Sure when Misty mention she was new to the friendship they formed days ago in secret. He assumed, like himself, she meant she lost a friendship back home like him with Gary and Leaf and made a new one outside his hometown. Not that she has never had a human friend. However catching Misty saw his obvious unwelcome reaction to her confession of not having one human friend before him. Ash, telling she was now regretting revealing that clearly secret to him. He shakes off his shock to grin in Misty's direction.
"So that means i'm your first human friend."
"Yeah you are. But like I said before. I'm still new to this friendship thing, so I still want to keep this just between us, ok Ash?"
Meanwhile letting it all sink in about Misty's lonely past where she only had Pokemon to keep her company. Ash is somewhat starting to understand her. As such he takes Misty's hand into his. Making a puzzled expression form on her face.
"Even if I don't seem like I can be patient mostly when it comes to pokemon and battles." Allowing a small smile grace his lips, Ash slightly squeezes Misty's hand. "But I can be patient for this between us. So go at you're pace, I won't rush you, Misty."
Agreeing to this its not long until both finally dig into their food. Where when Ash is discovering how really good his sandwich is. Misty basically moans in bliss at tasting the mouth watering crepes from the juicy berries, sweet chocolate, creamy whip cream to the buttery crepes.
"Hmm this is really delicious." Just for Ash to halt in taking a another bite at hearing Misty moan in enjoyment of her breakfast.
Resulting the raven-haired boy to overlook the unexpected sound from Misty that basically has his heart skip a beat and a tight feeling in his stomach. Not to mention, he pushed down his cap to hide without a doubt his blushing face.
Misty, unaware what she's causing the boy beside her feeling, moans again at another bite. "I'm glad I got to finally try crepes. There so good."
However hearing this statement and needing a distraction to his unwanted attractions toward Misty. Ash raised an eyebrow. "Finally try them? I thought you've had them before."
"Oh no I haven't. Like everything to do with french things or more like its proper name, Kalos. I always dream of going there. But until I can. I try to enjoy anything to do with that region if I can. Like these delicious crepes."
At Misty's explaining and learning a bit more about the orange-haired and she's acting like she did those couple of days ago. Enough that Ash is pleased at seeing Misty go back to her food, fortunately she was no longer moaning with each bite, which deep down he wasn't sure he was happy about this or disappointed. He picked neither as he spoke up.
"I'll take your word for it." Ash chuckles.
"Well instead of taking my word for it." As his chuckles got lost in his throat at realizing what Misty was doing as she turned her body around to him, holding out some crepe resting on the end of her fork, facing him. "Here try it for yourself."
"Um I had crepes before so-" Despite that claim. Misty doesn't waver the fork from his face.
"Then you can compare them to those. Come on Ash. It won't bite." Ash couldn't believe his situation right now. On one hand he was hesitating due to the fact he wanted Misty to enjoy her entire food after all he wasn't joking about her not really eating much these past two days. But on the other hand, though he doesn't have much knowledgeable in subjects as romance and intimacy. Ash without a doubt knows only couples do this kind of thing, after all he saw his parents done things like this when his dad was home. Nevertheless of his dilemma, he can read from the determination written on her face. Simply saying no wasn't going to do it.
Just then, in the corner of his eye, he spots his mostly finished sandwich within his hand. Having a sure clear plan that will not only have Misty cancel anything doing in sharing her food with him but also he knows she be disgusted by his idea.
"Fine," smiling within at his plan about to work, Ash raises the rest of his sandwich up to Misty's view. "But you got to try my sandwich first. I mean i'm pretty sure you never tried it before."
Right away Misty eyes the mostly eaten sandwich in Ash's raised hand. "What are those blue things in the biscuit?"
"Oh just berries. It gives the whole sandwich a sweet taste without overpowering the spicy sausage and fluffy egg." Ash tries to keep a smirk off his lips at noticing the unsure on Misty's face. "But its fine, Mist." Too focus on his plan working Ash doesn't notice the fluster Misty's face becomes by that simple nickname he calls her, said nickname is the same her grandmother use to call her. "I understand if you don-"
Ash's eyes widen while he loses his voice by the orange-haired, without warning, dipped her head down until she was biting into the last of his sandwich that he felt actually the brush of her lips against the skin of his fingertips. No matter how much he was trying he couldn't calm so many different effects to his body or mind at Misty's uncharacteristic actions. From his cheeks heating up to a unknown warm shiver rush through his body to his nearly fuzzy mind.
Meanwhile clueless to what her impulse action causing the other preteen while disregarding her own body's reaction, like her heart fluttering and warm face, at her basically eating food out of Ash's hand. Misty actually can't deny the odd sandwich is good.
"Hmm wow, you're right. Its really good." Yet noticing that she had basically finished off Ash's sandwich. And by his shock-still state the orange-haired figured he was upset that she ate the last of his food. "Oh sorry about finishing your sandwich off. I didn't realize-"
"Don't be," Ash states, while disregarding those recents effects from his body and mind by Misty's 'innocent' action, including the still lingering tingles in his fingertips made by her lips touching them. "I offered you to take a bite. Its not your fault there wasn't much left but a actual bite. But I'm glad you liked it."
"Well it's your turn now." And just like that Ash was once again facing a crepe on the end of the fork Misty is hovering inches from his mouth.
However instead of thinking for another way to prevent Misty not sharing her food. Ash shrugging, gave in and opening his mouth, allowed her to feed him the crepe at the end of the fork.
"Well," with still fork in hand, Misty plucks some more of the crepes from the container. "how is it?" Being asked this, Ash watches Misty place the fork that was a second within his mouth into her own. Causing more unwanted effects in his body, especially the warmth in his chest and tightness in his stomach. Nevertheless his lips were moving as Misty's forking some crepe..
"Better then the sandwich, but not as good as when my mom makes them." Misty in the middle of about to share more of the crepe with Ash. Halts at this news.
"Your mom can make crepes? These crepes are very delicious so hearing she can make better ones then these, makes me wish I could try hers." Swallowing the crepe he was fed, Ash grins.
"She's a great cook that even Brock's cooking can't compare to hers. In fact everything she cooks is mouth watering. That's why Gary and Leaf use to have meals at my house then their owns. Like this one time…"
As Ash falls into telling about his play days with his old childhood best friends, Gary and Leaf. Misty was hanging onto his every word. However been talking for a while, Ash's throat becomes dry.
Heard this, Misty, at first was going to give the raven-haired some money to get him a drink from the cafeteria or even one of the vending machines not too far from where their sitting. But without realizing she was doing it, Misty's hand had dug into the white bag, pulling out the last thing within the bag, a straw.
"There's only one milk, but we can share it like we're sharing my crepes." Misty not waiting for an answer from Ash. Popping the cap off the bottle, she placed the straw in it.
Ash on the other hand recalling the many times him, Gary and Leaf would share drinks during their playing, didn't really see a problem in drinking from the drink if Misty wasn't bothered by it. Then again like she just mention, they been eating from the same fork this whole time.
"I guess you're right." Thereby Ash didn't hesitate in taken a sip from the straw. Soon with his throat no longer dry Ash went back to telling of his play times within Pallet town. Whereas finished talking about his hometown. The two preteens fell into a comfortable silent. Unfortunately for Misty that doesn't remain when a curious Ash can't stop himself from asking more about why she didn't have even one non-pokemon friend.
"I know I shouldn't ask and you can tell me to mind my business. But Misty, overlooking how we met. I can't get my head around you never made a non-pokemon friend back home. I mean I wasn't really popular to have many friends back in Pallet. But I still had both Gary and Leaf before we ended our friendship…"
Meanwhile as Misty forks a berry to eat only to pause the fork from reaching her mouth by his question. Ash believed he had reach a barrier within their friendship by Misty pausing in eating to frown before looking away from him as if hurt by his question.
Fearing he just ruined their friendship by being too curious, despite he recently claimed he will be patient and not rush her. Immediately his hand reaches over, laying upon her shoulder causing him to feel her body go stiff at his touch. "I'm sorry Mist," nonetheless knowing he's making her uncomfortable. Ash gives a gentle squeeze to her shoulder. "forget I even asked-"
Instantly Misty's heart flutters at Ash calling her Mist for the second time. However rather not be this affected by him calling her by that nickname again or how warm she feels each time he touches her or fearing the thought of how he treat her if she reveal her past living within her home city. The orange-haired drawls back her shoulder from Ash's hand, process resulting in the other preteen stop in speaking. Yet quickly noticing the actual hurt display in his chocolate color eyes by her pulling away from him in the corner of her eye. Misty refraining from stopping herself. Opens her mouth.
"Since I can remember. I've been treated as the outcast of my entire city…"
And just like that Misty relayed what it was like living within Cerulean City. From the cruel treatment from the adults to not being welcome among other kids in the city. But even if she revealed all this including what the grove caretaker did to her around her grandmother's death. She holds back from Ash about her ability to understand Pokemon language that started a week after losing her grandma and she knows the Grandmaster, Red, and of course that they almost met at Oak's camp.
"And I guess that explains why I only made pokemon friends back home. Humans judge. Pokemon don't." Despite during speaking about how her life was living in Cerulean. Misty not once met Ash's sight. Finished explaining of her past within Cerulean to the preteen boy, who not once release his hand over hers the whole time, that's after Misty started talking about her past. The orange-haired shifts her eyes back to him. Only to see him wearing a expression that screamed 'I pity you.' Making the orange-haired girl lower her head in sadness.
"From you're look expression. You pity me now, don't you." Before Ash, while shaking his head no, respond it he gives a comforting squeeze to Misty's hand still under his this whole time. In fact when she did try to slip her hand out from under his during talking about the grove caretaker breaking her arm. He had held her hand enough to prevent her from drawling it back despite his grip wasn't too strong to hurt her.
But where she didn't even dare look his way when he squeeze her hand during her speaking. The same can't be said about now as Misty, rising her head back up, turns her sight once again on Ash who starts talking.
"I hate to hear that you were treated like that back in your own city. But Misty I don't pity you. I mean if I had went through what you did, I wouldn't be as strong as you are." As Misty's speechless at this statement, Ash smiles generously toward her. "And you're really strong, Mist."
Although she can't hold back the rosy color that paints her cheeks or warmth filling up her chest, Misty gently squeezes the other preteen's hand. "Thanks, Ash."
Still smiling and return a squeeze back to Misty's hand before releasing it to take a sip from the bottle of milk, Ash shrugs. "I'm just speaking the truth."
"Well truth or not I appreciate you feel I'm strong." In the time Ash returns his eyes to Misty. The orange-haired flips the tip of his cap down playfully. "Mr. Pokemon Master." Teased Misty.
Normally Ash should be mad at Misty's teasing actions, mostly by the mocking nickname she gave him after they met. But he finds himself laughing instead whereas Misty join him soon after.
Eventually their laughter died down as Misty shared the last of her crepes with Ash. However in the middle of sipping from the milk bottle herself. The orange-haired wasn't sure what was pushing her, but her mouth was moving before she realize it was.
"You know, Ash. Despite our arguments and fights, which I wont lie to you that most of them is because you do some silly things without thinking first, that causes me to lash out at you." At this part Ash frowns over to Misty. Though he can't deny Misty seems like she's becoming a bit embarrassed as she rubs the side of her arm, avoiding his eyes. "But other times I start arguments because I like seeing you get angry."
Ash blinked at this. "Why would you like seeing me angry?" Although she remains avoiding looking at him. Ash watches Misty release a sigh as her face was getting redder. "Mist-"
"I think you look cute when you're angry, ok." Confessed a now bashful looking Misty. Ash on the other hand never expect to hear that come from Misty of all people. Leaving the raven-haired boy dumbfounded to speak.
However finally looking over to the other preteen when there was nothing but silent after her confession. When she had assumed Ash would full out mock her despite they been getting along so far today. But spotting the raven-haired just staring jaw-drop at her enough Misty notices he's blushing.
Right away Misty picks up that Ash is either embarrassed or flattered from her words. Yet even though a deeper voice within says he's flattered. Misty chooses to accept the expression means Ash is embarrassed. That's why not wanting to make him keep feeling uncomfortable, Misty flips down again the raven-haired's cap, breaking him from his stun-state at his hat blocking his eye sight.
"Really, Misty." He says with a chuckle by her playful actions while raising his cap back up. To see her winking.
"Well I didn't think that be your reaction to me saying you look cute while angry." This time she sticks her tongue out at him, playfully. Even though Misty started out wanting to keep Ash from being anymore embarrassed as well as not touch the subject that something might be saying he likes her more than a friend, to Misty. Having too much fun in teasing him, she overlooks this. To, while watching Ash start laughing as he fixes his cap the way he likes it, rested a hand against the side of the other preteen's chair for support, leans her face closer to his ear, whispering, "That said and since I confess that to you. I was wondering, even though I know my looks don't compare to Giselle's that you don't see me as pretty. But do you think I'm maybe a little cute?"
Realizing what she actually asked. Misty suddenly becomes unsure about herself especially at what Ash's respond will be. Nevertheless since she said it and she was a little curious about the answer. The orange-haired waits patiently for his response. Not realizing she was falling into those chocolate orbs of his once the other preteen shifts his eyes to meet hers.
Whereas Ash, once heard those words whispered into his ear, that caused a shiver throughout his body. Turned his head to face Misty. Didn't realized how close Misty's face was to his, despite she had to be close enough to whisper in his ear. Nevertheless, the raven-haired couldn't deny what he has come to really think about Misty's looks, mostly after these two days just observing her as they waited for Starmie to heal.
Cute. Yes she's cute especially when she's cuddling up with one of his pokemon such as Pikachu and Butterfree like she did that night ago. However Ash is coming to terms, if not just with himself, that Misty was more then just cute or even pretty. No by these sea green-blue pools that he, unintentionally, seems to be getting lost in, and with the sunlight coming through the window behind Misty bathing her in a glow, those eyes of hers are brighter and enchanted now then through a dark night with the only source of light was a fading out campfire.
With eyes like hers, it's hard not to notice how beautiful she really is. But there's no way I could ever let her know that Giselle can't compare to her beauty. No I don't want to scare her off after she's opened up so much to me. But I need to say something!?
However while in his thoughts and remaining holding eye-contact with the orange-haired. Ash, unknowingly to him, lays a hand over Misty's still hand resting on the side of his chair. Actions Misty feels as her already warm face becomes warmer. Yet the orange-haired doesn't remove her lock eyes on the still silent Ash. Especially when he smiles softly at her despite not answering her question.
But while keeping their amazing eyes locked on the other, and now both quietly smiling. Neither realized their faces were inching closer together. Yet neither hear a familiar "Pikapi!" either.
Therefore both were surprised by the sudden splash of liquid that landed on Misty. Resulting in both the preteen jump up from their seats at the new situation. While also distracting them both enough to forget what they almost did.
That's why as Misty's getting over the shock she's partly wet. By the familiar "Pikapi pikacu cu." Both her and Ash look to the voice belonging to Pikachu who's not only sitting upon the table but from his tail resting behind a tilted over bottle of milk, clearly said that's what hit Misty.
Even so, with Misty understanding Pikachu's speak to know the electric mouse was sorry that he spilled the milk on her. The orange-haired brushed Pikachu's worry off as Ash handed over some napkins for her, starts wiping her face off as the raven-haired boy pat dries off her arm. "It's fine, Pikachu. I know you didn't mean to get me wet. So stop looking sad. You're still my pika-pal."
Luckily for Misty only from her forehead down to part of the right side of her front was soaked, nothing else.
"See Pikachu, like Misty just said. No harm done."
Unfortunately, as Ash continued his cleaning off to Misty's arm and shoulder while talking to his pokemon, the preteen boy doesn't realized he starts patting now some napkins upon the right side of Misty's chest. Leaving the orange-haired, halting in her wiping the milk off her neck, to turn beet red as she tries to get Ash's attention. That's still on Pikachu. "Um, Ash…"
"And after we're done cleaning up here. We can go get my other pokemon, then we all can leave her-"
"Ash!" Unable to keep allowing the clueless raven-haired boy continue basically fondling her right covered breast. Mostly with it displaying through her shirt that his actions effected her. That's why Misty grabs Ash's hand, causing the other preteen to halt in talking to his pokemon to look to see why Misty stopped him from helping her.
Immediately once his sight shifted from Misty's unreadable eyes to lock at where his hand was under Misty holding it. Ash's eyes widen as a strong blush, matching Misty's, paints his face. As if he was burn Ash quickly drawls his hand away from under Misty's hand and as well as a top of her right clothed breast. For a moment neither said a thing just stood there avoiding each other's eyes. Especially now as they both just remember what they almost did if Pikachu haven't appeared.
Nevertheless. Not wanting to start smelling like milk sitting out. Misty speaks even though it's in a shy tone of voice. "Um, I'm gonna go cleanup."
"Um, sure." Was all Ash could get out, despite he wasn't reframing from looking at Misty in the corner of his eye. Enough he watches the orange-haired moves in the direction to leave the lobby for the doorway that leads into the hall that holds the sleeping rooms and the showers. Yet as she reaches the doorway, she halts in going any further.
"Ash about everything that happen here-"
"Stays between us. Don't worry my lips are sealed." Actually looking back, Misty gives appreciated smile to Ash, even though they were still blushing.
"Thanks. After cleaning up and gathering my stuff in the room Joy gave me. I'll meet you back here."
"Sure, Mist." And with that Ash watches Misty leave through the doorway. However as soon as she was gone. The raven-haired boy rubs his hands over his face, groaning. "That couldn't of got anymore awkward. Right Pikachu."
"Pika." Is the response Ash gets as he's approaching the table and his pokemon. Despite he wasn't sure what Pikachu was saying. Ash smiles down at his best pokemon friend.
"Anyway once I clean up the spilled milk and throw away mine and Misty's trash. We'll head to the pick-up area to get the others."
Unfortunately once Ash busy himself with his tasks. Pikachu frowns within.
…
Unknown to both Ash and Misty. Pikachu intently spilled the milk on Misty.
At the task he accept from Suicune. Pikachu must keep Ash a.k.a The chosen one from making any deep relationship beyond friends with anyone. Mainly because Golden is Ash's life aura-mate and with this person Ash will reach his destiny. Although Pikachu isn't clear on what Ash's full destiny is or the big picture his best friend and trainer is going to face in the future or what it all has to do with a unknown being named simply, Aurora. Nonetheless that he's clueless to what is around the corner for Ash and him. Pikachu has to prevent the raven-haired from falling for someone before Golden is revealed. Which won't happen until Hope appears, whoever that is. But giving his word to Suicune that he will fulfilled the task given to him. Pikachu has come to terms that if he doesn't want Ash or Misty broken-hearted in the end when Golden comes to light. He has to do everything in his power to stop the two from becoming more than friends, despite he loves and respects both of them. And would be more than happy to see them together.
Fortunately, even though they had seem to have formed a secret friendship. Ash and Misty done nothing but been at each other's throats for days after Pikachu met Suicune. Resulting in the electric mouse's job becoming easy each time they fall into a argument. Not to mention Pikachu knows Ash been questioning if him and Misty are really friends or she just change her mind.
Therefore, even though he saw Ash seem to be keeping his eyes on Misty since they arrived at the center. Pikachu hasn't been worried about his second task from Suicune. In fact he's lately focusing on his task at locating and meeting any god-pokemon while also masking his true powers from not only Ash and the others but also in battle and Nurse Joy during check ups at the Pokemon Center.
But that didn't stop him from worrying about his friend Starmie. Fortunately with the star pokemon had reached full health last night. Pikachu looked forward to getting back to traveling, that's after his and Ash's other pokemon's check up from Nurse Joy.
Thereby, once his check up was over and was enjoying a sweet red apple. Pikachu decided instead of waiting along with Ash's other pokemon within their poke-ball, on the tray within in the pick-up area Nurse Joy left them once she was called to handle an emergency. He was going to go find Ash. And he did by smelling for his scent. And although he had caught Misty's scent near where Ash was. It didn't seem odd, mainly since Pikachu knew Ash had been keeping a watch on Misty throughout their time at this center. So not even halted in reaching Ash. Pikachu had been coming around the front desk once entered the lobby to find surprisingly Ash haven't been at a distance from where Misty was like he usually did since they arrived here two days ago. But instead the raven-haired trainer was sitting at the same table as Misty. And although Ash was in the middle of fixing his cap that Pikachu couldn't really see his trainer's expression to pin-point what was going on between him and Misty. But then when Misty moved closer to Ash, whispering in his ear, just for Ash to whip his head to the side, facing Misty. Pikachu knew that he needed to end what was going on between the two preteen. However because he been taken back at seeing how close Ash and Misty had gotten in his absent. He didn't right away rushed over. In fact at the moment he saw both their blushing faces, inching closer and closer to each other.
The yellow mouse heard two trainers talking nearby him, saying how cute a couple Ash and Misty are as well as from what else they were speaking to seem the two been watching his human best friends for a while enough that Pikachu knew Misty had done something that assumed to the trainers as hot and naughty. Yet whatever happen before he arrived. Pikachu didn't waste anymore time, as rushing up, and jumped on the table. He, without hesitation, purposely hit his tail against the glass bottle that of course splashed over Misty's front right side enough to stopped the almost kiss between her and Ash.
Unfortunately now while observing Ash cleaning up his and Misty's mess on the table after finished wiping up any leftover milk spill. Pikachu can see despite the raven-haired a moment ago been still blushing and embarrassed by his awkward moment with Misty. Was currently in a cheerful mood than he been since they arrived at the Pokemon center.
That's why, although he's still going to keep the two from becoming a couple. Pikachu isn't going to hold them back from being friends. No the happy state Ash is in tells him it would be a bad idea to stop their friendship from happening. At the time Pikachu comes to this decision Ash finished cleaning everything up, walks back over to Pikachu.
"Okay buddy let's go get the others."
…
After securing his poke-balls onto his belt while Pikachu perch himself onto Ash's shoulder. The raven-haired trainer heads back to the lobby to see if Misty has returned.
"There you are, Ash." However just as he reaches the front entrance of the lobby he spots Brock walking up to him.
"Hey Brocko. I just got all my pokemon back and I was going to-" By Brock suddenly grasping the side of his shoulders that causes Pikachu to perch the upper part of his shoulder. Ash halts in speaking. Whereas the teen boy starts, that's as he's pulling Ash through the lobby until they're at the front entrance of the Pokemon center.
"There's these group of four who been looking for someone to help get through the forest to reach the next town. And since we're heading that way also I agreed to aid them. That okay?"
"Sure, I don't see any problem with that. Like you said we're going that way also." If Ash wasn't mistaken it look like Brock was now wearing a glee expression on his face.
"Thanks, Ash. You're the best." Not soon after the teen boy says this he turns for the automatic glass exit door. "I'll go tell them we'll help. Come out when you get your pokemon back and then we can be on our way." Brock shouts over his shoulder before running out of the center.
Chuckling, Ash shakes his head at Brock's odd anxious behavior. "He didn't even remember I told him I already picked-up you and the others. In fact I don't think he notice you on my shoulder."
Pikachu believes the same thing. Nonetheless wanting to see how Misty's doing. Pikachu jumps off Ash's shoulder to land on the floor.
"Pikachu is something wrong?"
Clearly knowing Ash can't understand Pikachu's speech yet. The yellow mouse nods while saying, "Pi." As if saying nothing is wrong. Luckily it seems Ash got that.
"Well if nothing is wrong, why did you get down?" Here Pikachu points at himself. Which Ash understood. "Okay. You want to do something, right."
"Pi-ka." At this Pikachu than holds his paw face-up, before using his other paw as if he was checking off something on his hand.
"Hm… Are you saying you want to check on something?"
"Pi!" Pleased Ash caught what he's saying. Pikachu place his two ears to the side like a side ponytail while saying, "Pikachpic." Immediately Ash knew who he was imitating.
"Misty. You want to check on her is that what you're telling me?" By Pikachu jumping up and down in excitement, Ash grins at his pokemon. "Yeah you can." Still talking, Ash moves over until he's leaning against the wall closer to the exit. "I'll wait here."
Getting the go ahead from his trainer and best friend. Pikachu heads through the lobby to reach the hall that holds the bedrooms and showers of the Pokemon center.
…
Within the wash room of the center.
Although Misty been blushing up a storm with a racing heart as she left Ash back in the lobby. By the time she entered the private room Joy gave her while staying at the center to make up for wrongly judging her earlier. The orange-haired found herself, somehow not bothered by the whole thing of her and Ash almost kissing. But her secret friend basically fondling her chest troubled her. I mean though Misty knew it was an accident. She can't get her head around that Ash didn't realized what he was doing. Yet by his heavy blushing and, though she don't think he realized she saw him. He had glanced a second at her chest when he mention his lips are sealed.
However what really worried her. Is she liked how him touching her breast effected her as well she felt flattered at catching him eyeballing her chest. And although he never told her if she's cute to him. She, somehow, knows he thinks she is. Yet that doesn't mean she's not going to, when they're alone once more, ask him that question again.
Nonetheless of those deep thoughts of hers. Misty had, while washing off the milk on her skin. Decided, though their friends now, not to let up on the way she treats Ash around others. However when it's just them, she won't hide they're friends or she cares about him.
After all she can no longer deny she's attracted to the raven-haired preteen to have formed a crush on him. But despite that. Misty's not going to give light to this regulation. No instead she's going to focus on only the secret friendship between them and nothing more. After all, unlike her sisters who had boyfriends and partners since they were 7 years old and been sexual acted since they were nine. Misty's not looking for anything more than a friend right now.
That's why as Misty currently snatched up a towel to dry herself. She's as calm as a cucumber when she hears what sounds like a scratching noise coming from the closed door.
But because it's low in sound she believes she's just hearing things to continue drying off. But changes her mind about hearing things. Yet not by the sound starting again. No it's the words, ("Misty you there? Your scent lead me here.") in Pikachu speech that does it.
Misty keeping the towel wrapped around her walks over to the door, opening just enough to see in deed Pikachu there.
("Can I come in?") Sticking her head out a moment, looking to see if anyone around. Before, once seeing nobody, steps back to allow Pikachu to enter.
Once the wash room's door closed the orange-haired girl is resuming drying herself off as she asks Pikachu. ("Not that I don't mind you here. But why are you?")
Sitting upright on his hind legs, Pikachu rubs the back of his head, sheepishly like a certain raven-haired boy does. Which Misty can't help thinking its adorable.
("I wanted to check up on you. And also say again that I'm sorry for spilling milk on you.") Despite his actions were purposeful. Pikachu hated he done that to one of his best human friends.
Misty on the other hand, rolls her eyes before slipping on her fresh white t-shirt that she's wearing until she can wash her clothes. Fortunately because her shorts didn't get wet, Misty can still wear them.
"And again like I said before. It was an accident and so I'm not mad. There's no harm done. And as for you checking up on me." Even though she only had on her t-shirt and panties, Misty scoops up Pikachu into her arms, hugging him. "That is so sweet of you, my pika-pal."
Before lowering him back to the ground and finish getting dressed. Misty plants a kiss between his ears causing the yellow mouse to give out a, ("Hey, I just want to protect my friends.") in a bashful tone.
"And I appreciate it." Done getting dressed, Misty, using her mobile blow-dryer from her side backpack, dries her hair. "So is there any other reason you're here? Come on, Pikachu I feel there's something more you want to discuss with me." At first by Pikachu staying silent, Misty thought the feeling she was getting from the mouse pokemon was wrong. That's before Pikachu response.
("You and Ash are friends again, right.")
"Right." Putting away the hair device, Misty, with a brush, brushes her hair up into her usual side-ponytail.
("And its still in secret.")
"As secret as me knowing pokemon language. Then yes." With done getting ready, Misty shoulders her side backpack. Yet since her and Pikachu is still having a conversation. The orange-haired girl doesn't leave the wash room.
("So does that mean no more arguments or fights here on out between you two?") Misty shakes her head no. Causing Pikachu to be unsure how he feels about that. After all he wants his two best human friends to be best friends even if they can't be anything deeper.
"After all some of our arguments are because Ash doesn't think before acting. So sorry, my Pika-pal. But I can't sit back and do nothing when he's wrong. Even if we're friends." Saying this, Misty, with Pikachu in arms, leaves the wash room, heading back for the lobby. Causing soon the two's conversation to end there.
…
Return back to the lobby
Reached the center's lobby. Misty already spotted Ash leaning against the wall near the center's entrance automatic glass doors. However because he's got his head lowered down, Ash's cap was hiding his face to onlookers.
Yet instead walking over to him like Pikachu thought Misty would. The orange-haired approaches the front desk. Who Pikachu notice Chansey running the front station. "Chansey where's Nurse Joy?" Fortunately with getting to know Chansey while here enough to earned the nurse pokemon's trust. Misty can understand her clearly.
("She and my older sister had two emergencies to take care of, leaving me to handle the front desk.")
"Well in that case, I'm here to return the key to the room she allowed me to stay in." While speaking Misty moves Pikachu to her shoulder to pull out the room key and also her bank card. "But also want to pay for the two days I was here.-"
("I apologize, but I been strictly ordered to not accept payment from you for your stay here. Again I apologize.") As this -unsurprised- news, Misty frowns and deepens it at the nurse pokemon waving its arms at her as she trys to hand over her bank card to it.
Although her late grandmother taught her many things including appreciating others generosity to her. Misty, due to the treatment done to her in Cerulean and after her grandmother's death, has two pet-peed. The first one is she hates anyone showing her kindness out of pity. And the second one is she can't accept others giving or offering her anything without feeling she's in debt to them someway. In fact, unknown to Ash, if he wouldn't of agreed to her sharing the crepes with him. Misty without a doubt would have refuse the breakfast despite they're blooming friendship. Thereby even though it's clear Chansey's not going to disrespect Nurse Joy's order. Misty wasn't letting up in handing over her bank card.
"At lease let me pay for my other pokemon's check-up yesterday." Once seeing Chansey shake it's head no. Pikachu shifts his attention over to his best friend's leaning form to catch not only was Ash's head raised up, but his trainer was starting to make his way over to them. Something Pikachu clearly could see that Misty was too busy in trying to convince the pink pokemon to have her way to notice the other 10 year old was approaching. That's why Pikachu begins to subtle tap Misty to get her attention before she's seen talking to Chansey as if she understands Pokemon language.
Unfortunately Pikachu's subtle taps weren't reaching the orange-haired as she kept trying to at lease pay for her other pokemon's medical check-up. She would of asked to pay for Starmie's medical bills too. But because she had no choice but to reveal she's a on and off Cerulean gym leader to Nurse Joy to get Starmie's health records. It lead to the nurse calling up the gym, where not only Daisy was obligated to use the funds her and Misty's other sisters get from the League for being gym leaders, to pay all of Starmie's medical bills. But during Daisy having no choice but to pay Starmie's bill, Misty learn that since GM-Red got wind of her battling as the Cerulean gym leader. He made her sisters have no choice but to transfer her share of the gym leader salary that her sisters get from the League. And despite Lily didn't hide she hated they had to give Misty her share. The orange-haired's thankful she has some spending money to use besides the monthly money she inherit from her late grandmother's will that Daisy controls until Misty is 19. Because the amount Daisy sends barely is enough for a week let alone a month.
("And as for your other pokemon's expenses. It was paid off by the League's Grandmaster, Red, just an hour ago.") A scream wanted to leave Misty's lips at discovering this unexpected news by Chansey.
Yes she accepted the Staryu from Red without trouble, only cause she earn the pokemon through battle. But to be allowed to leave Cerulean and travel. Misty had to accept Red's terms. Such as she can't refuse birthday gifts -like her former bike- or him handling financial problems she have during her travels. Furthermore despite Daisy controls how much inherit money Misty gets as the elder sister. The GM-Red, as a close friend of her parents and grandmother, was made as Misty and her sisters' caregiver through their grandmother's will. That's until they reach adulthood. Thereby even if she was against his terms. As her legal adult guardian, he had the last say if she could leave Cerulean. So she agreed. However she was hoping as long as she remain camping and using her bike through her travels. She could remain off Red locating her.
Realizing what she plan after leaving Cerulean and where she's at now. The orange-haired gave a heavy sigh. For despite she wanted to keep from Red aiding her throughout her journey. Misty wasn't expecting to meet a raven-haired boy and his friendly pikachu, which both have in a short time change her perspective of how traveling would be.
Thinking this part Misty's head shifts over to where she last saw Ash was. Just to see, not only had Pikachu return to the raven-haired without Misty knowing he did. But the other preteen wasn't still leaning aside the exit doors to the center. No he was actually sitting on a sofa a bit to hers and the front desk's right, looking to be talking it up with the yellow mouse. However like everyone in the lobby. He was far enough that Misty didn't need to worry if she's heard talking and understanding Chansey's speech.
Reminded of Chansey and what the pink pokemon just informed her. Misty for the second time release another heavy sigh, but not as strong as the last one.
That's why instead of keep on with Chansey. Misty playing off she wasn't just upset with the pink pokemon. Smiles at Chansey.
"Well since he stepped in. There's nothing I can do." While talking Misty slips her bank card back into her pocket. Seeing this Chansey releases a breath she been holding, since the orange-haired basically been pressuring it to take her money.
("So you're fine with this arrangement, Miss Waterflower?") The pokemon couldn't help but to be sure the preteen wasn't going to start up again.
Misty on the other hand, sighs heavy before smiling again. "No not really. But like I said, since GM-Red handled the payment. I have to accept my hands are tied to the matter. Yet even though I thank Nurse Joy for the generosity. I rather she let me pay for my stay next time."
Now Chansey was smiling. ("I'll be sure to let her know that. And I hope the rest of your day is bright.")
With a nod toward Chansey and saying, "Yours too." Misty turns and seeing Ash and Pikachu still on the sofa. She walks over to them.
Yet as she does, Misty's reminded of something she been wanted to handle since her and Ash became secret friends.
…
Before Misty and Pikachu return to the lobby.
Earlier during waiting as Pikachu went to check on Misty. And no longer anything to distract him like when he was cleaning up his and Misty's trash. Ash had nothing but time to his thoughts. Which had him thinking about what happen after Pikachu spill milk on Misty. Leading to it dawn on Ash of his eyes's unexpected actions when they had lingered on Misty's chest at the moment he said his lips are sealed to her. However though Ash realized what he did and finally accepting he's formed attraction toward the orange-haired as well as might be growing a crush on her.
He doesn't want to do anything about it. For several reasons. The first being, like he kept from telling her she was cute let along more then cute. He doesn't want to scare her off. Second one is this pokemon journey is about reaching his dream of becoming a pokemon master, with making friends from pokemon and human alike, winning gym battles and catching as many pokemon as he can. Something more than that isn't on the list. And the third reason is deep down he was still getting over his first crush that became impossible to keep last year. And the last reason, despite Misty's teasing him. He can't accept Misty wants anything from him except a new bike -that he will definitely get her- and this secret friendship they made. To be honest Ash didn't want to jeopardize their friendship for anything. Not even for some small hovering feelings within him.
As Ash came to that decision, while raising up his head that been in a lower-down position within his thoughts. The preteen sees not only Pikachu in view but Misty too. Where the girl was standing at the front desk facing one of Nurse Joy's Chansey. Yet seeing that Misty might be having trouble in communicating with the pokemon from what he can tell. Ash moves from his leaning place against the wall to approach them. After all despite he can't actually understand pokemon language. He thought maybe with him and Misty trying with a little of Pikachu translating between them and Chansey. A communication would be accomplished.
However when Ash is coming up and sure he almost hears Misty trying to speak non-human words to the confuse looking nurse pokemon to her attempts in talking to it. Pikachu quickly turning to him waving, suddenly leaps off his perch on Misty's shoulder to land into his surprise trainer's arms.
"Hey Pikachu." Ash greets his pokemon with a chuckle."I'm happy to see you too. But it looks like Misty could use some help-"
"Pika-ch." Instantly the yellow mouse shakes his head with placing his arms in a x position at Ash, causing the boy to be cut off.
"Are you saying that will be a bad idea?"
"Pika."
For second Ash glance at Misty's back, before looking down at his best pokemon friend. "Are you sure? Cause she looks to be-" Again Pikachu cut in.
"Pika-ch. Pikach, Pikachu." For the second time Pikachu shakes his head no. Then he points at himself, then Ash before pointing at a empty sofa nearby before pointed to Misty.
"So if I got it straight. You want us to go over to that sofa and wait for Misty to get done here, right?"
"Pikachu, pi." Pikachu gave Ash the peace sign.
"Well if you think Misty is okay, then we can wait on that sofa for her." With that Ash, along with Pikachu, went and settled upon the sofa.
Even if it wasn't long before they sat down that Ash was lost in what Pikachu was trying to explain to him about how excited it was to be getting back on the road to gain more pokemon friends and badges for him.
The raven-haired wasn't aware Misty was done or that she walked over to them. That's until she cleared her throat enough to be heard.
And heard her Ash and Pikachu did. Making the preteen and pokemon stare up at her.
"Hey, Mist you finish in turning in the room key I see. So ready to go?" Yet when Ash begins to rise off the couch, Misty's extended hand stops the boy from doing so.
"Yes I'm done with that. But there's something I need to take care of between us before we leave here together."
Instantly Ash's eyes widen as he assumes what Misty wanted to speak about. "Don't worry Mist. I meant what I said. My lips are sealed. What happen ear-"
"Ash please stop talking." Misty cuts in before the other preteen can go any further while fighting off a blush. "Look what I need to discuss with you has nothing to do with any of that. But before we go on farther. I need you to answers some questions honestly if you don't mind."
Being relief that she wasn't bringing up about what happen earlier. Ash easily reply with, "Uh sure."
"Good." Misty says, dropping onto the sofa. "Ok, from what I can tell about your basic knowledge on being a beginner pokemon trainer. I'm assuming you either slept through your basic lessons from Professor Oak's teachings or you just didn't listen to them." Already Misty could see her assuming about Ash's basic early lessons on pokemon training was hitting the boy the wrong way. That's if his crossed arms and turned head from her meant anything. "Look Ash," speaking on a sigh, Misty lays a hand on Ash's arm. "Believe it or not, Ash. But I'm not trying to hurt your feelings. It's just from my view. No beginner trainer is allow to partake in any pokemon event without knowing the basics which is learn in the early lessons you get from the professor that gave you a starter pokemon."
Despite his annoyed reaction to the words. Unknown to Misty. Ash wasn't upset with her not really. To be honest he was upset with himself as well as of how he actually passed the basic lessons despite he only made it to at lease two lessons. Actions that should of made him unable to pass or start his pokemon journey. However due to his dad's status in the Pokemon World and Professor Oak knows who his dad is. Ash passed without trying. Something that even now frustrate him to know he's only out here instead back home retaking the basic lessons that all beginner trainers need to take to start they're pokemon journey or get a starter pokemon. Is because of his dad's doing. Therefore, although he loves his dad, Ash wants to prove not only he can reach his goals without favors from who his dad is, but he wants to become a pokemon master mainly because that is one title his dad doesn't have. Furthermore, disregarding his and his mom's relation to his dad is confidential to the public for their safety. Ash is glad not many, including even his former childhood friends, knows who his dad really is. Mainly because he doesn't want things handed to him -like what happen with his basic lessons- and he wants to make a name for himself.
Yet too deep in his frustrated thoughts, Ash almost doesn't feel Misty touch his shoulder. The word meaning almost. Furthermore, unlike before when he hated her basically dumbing him down, Ash can tell, somehow, she really wasn't belittling him just stating what he can't deny. He lacks in knowledge of the basic of being a pokemon trainer. And that is his fault. That's why he can't fault Misty for pointing out the obvious.
"Look Misty," starts Ash while turning and looking at her. That's after pushing his thoughts to the back of his mind, while places a relaxing expression on his face. "Yes I slept one or twice through a lesson. But I learn enough to pass."
Smiling a bit to the clearly embarrass in his voice at taking his beginner lessons not serious as he should of. Misty pats the shoulder her hand's laying on before removing it. "Okay fair enough. But was one of those lessons about everything to do with your Poke-dex, like it's many functions?"
It goes without saying, from the event back in Viridian City when he learn by Officer Jenny that the poke-dex holds his identity as a beginner pokemon trainer on it as well being a digital encyclopedia on Pokemon. Well not all Pokemon since the Poke-dex couldn't identify that unknown beautiful flying pokemon at the start of his pokemon journey. Then again most of the Poke-dex actually comes from what Professor Oak and other professors -that Ash is sure Professor Oak studied with- know. Nevertheless Ash, again, has to accept he really has no clue about something else beginner trainers should know.
"What if I say no." Sighs Ash in exaggeration.
Before responding Misty let's go of a little giggle at his behavior."Well let me see your Poke-dex and I can show its functions. Functions that beyond it being a simple encyclopedia on Pokemon. Although I heard it has the worst phone service signal of any poke-gear devices. Anyway can I see it?"
Really wanting to know more of what his poke-dex offers. Ash silently hands over the poke-device to the other preteen. Where Misty flipping opening the device, starts explaining to him the functions by motioning to the set row of white buttons on the right inside of the device.
"Here the first button shows your entire account profile as a beginner trainer on the screen. Watch."
And Ash watches as his profile appears on screen, but he's shock to see his entire birth name displayed on it. Mainly cause Misty also can see it.
"Ashton Satoshi Ketchum. Ashton huh? So I'm guessing you shorten your first name to Ash because you don't favor Ashton as your name."
Due to having early teasing from other kids back in Pallet for his real name, though he form a quick friendship with both Gary and Leaf because they too were teased for their birth names. Ash has become to hate being called Ashton enough he rather be called what his parents been calling him since he can remember. In fact that's how he writes out his name. Ash Ketchum. Furthermore because him, Gary and Leaf was able to shorten their name when they filled out their trainer forms back in Pallet. Ash assumed, like the identity of who his dad is, he could keep others from knowing his real name.
However, unlike former times when his real name is mention back home. Misty oddly seems to be uninterested by his name. In fact she simply just takes his silent as a answer before moving on in explaining the other functions to the poke-dex.
"Well moving on from your profile's information. The second white button there has to do with changing out the pokemon you catch as well inform you of how many you caught. While the third button actually is your camera but if you don't press the first button that brings up your account after turning on your camera the device will take pictures of pokemon only. Like here I'll show you." Soon as Misty press the camera button and then the first one, with her pressing closer to a taken back Ash; who out of shock gather up Pikachu in his arms at the same time she moved closer to him before she pointed the poke-dex's camera lens at them both before saying, "Now smile you two."
However still shock at Misty's unexpected closeness. Ash didn't register he was suppose to smile at the moment both Misty and Pikachu did. That's why, after Misty moved back to show his device to him. Ash saw the screen showing a picture of him, Misty and Pikachu. But of course it was displaying Misty and Pikachu smiling while a startling looking Ash was gawking at Misty as if trying to understand why she was so close to him.
Which taken in the picture as soon Ash did. Misty slightly laughs before winking over to him. "Well I was going to show you how to place this picture as a screen saver. But I'll do that next time, that is once you make a second picture with you actually smiling. But now we're going to explain the last button. That gives access to your bank."
"My what?" This was new to him. "I have a bank?" Hearing this and taking in his puzzle expression Misty shakes her head.
"I was afraid this be the case." She says but still press the last button, where what shows up on the screen looks like to Ash a copy of his trainer profile account. Yet this account only showed him as Ash Ketchum instead of his whole full name. As well showing a lot of numbers in lines underneath it. "Okay let's start here. As a beginner trainer and your not 18 or older. A guardian or parent gives a stander monthly allowance to the trainer for its expenses-."
"That I actually know, Misty." Ash says sounding offended. Just cause he didn't know about a bank on his poke-dex. Didn't mean he had no knowledge that it's his parents who sends him a monthly allowance that he gets from the ATM within any Pokemon center. "Namely since it's my mom's bank account my monthly allowance comes from when I withdrawal it from the ATM."
At being cut off Misty was in motion at shouting at the preteen. But at the last second decided not too. After all yelling right now wouldn't accomplish what Misty wants Ash to do soon. "Since you been paying your way and I saw you at the last pokemon center using the ATM. I'm aware you know this. But Ash even though it's your mom's money you drawl-out of the ATM. It's not her account your getting it out of."
"Wait it's not?" Misty simply shakes her head no.
"No Ash." Pointing at the screen on the poke-dex. Misty goes on. "As any trainer rather it be beginner or higher level ones. Every trainer has they're own bank account, though by you not knowing about it. Your mom must of filled out a stander trainer bank account for you." All Ash could do to this was shrug his shoulders while once again looking embarrass at his naive to the whole thing at being a trainer mostly financially. I mean he has a bank account that he had no clue he did. Yet he can see with his own eyes his bank account displayed on screen.
"I guess so." Suddenly Ash remembers something doing with a situation he had with the first trainer he battled when came to the other trainer paying him for his win. "Hey now that you mention all this. A trainer before asked me if I wanted to be pay with yen or digital. Does that have something to do with my bank here?" By Misty's big smile, Ash is sure he finally said something right through the whole conversation so far.
"Yes Ash it has a lot to do with it. Like right here." Misty motions to a line with numbers displayed on the screen. "Each line underneath your name and account number are the amounts that been deposit into your account. The earliest date showing three months ago, from a Delia Ketchum whom I'm assuming is your mom. She deposit 80000 yens in. Where another deposit on that same date 100000 yens was deposit in. But it oddly shows that amount is on halt until five months from now."
Here Misty is tempted to look to Ash and ask him about the 100000 yen in his account. Especially since Misty knows 80000 yens is mostly the amount a parent or guardian can give as an allowance to a beginner trainer. So where did that much yen come from mostly since there's no name just a unknown account number as of who sent it. Nonetheless and reminded of why she's doing all this when she spots the next two deposits to Ash's account that doesn't have his mom as the sender. Misty continues. Yet unknown to Misty, and he's now figured that the money he's been withdrawing this whole time was from his own bank account and not his mom. Ash finds himself frowning within at seeing 100000 yen was placed in by none other then his dad and it's on halt until his 11th birthday.
"Anyway when a trainer even a beginner wins from a gym. They not only are rewarded with a badge, they're reward digital credit that's transfer to their bank account after their trainer ID is dated into the gym's record. And it shows right here," Ash looks to what Misty's pointing at to see two different deposits of 30000 yens on his account. However as he's noticing the senders' names were in fact Pewter gym and Cerulean gym. Misty starts speaking again. "Although the credit sent varies from the trainer's level. Like you being a beginner gets only 30000 yens as a reward."
But what Misty isn't or won't dare mention to Ash is some gym leaders like her sisters who when loses to much higher level trainers than beginners offer them instead of credits to their bank account. Sex exchange. Where Misty unfortunately witness many trainers have took her sisters up on the offer, in fact they even done this same method with some beginners that they thought were cute enough to sleep with.
"And so that was what that trainer meant by digital pay. In fact let me show you how that goes. You know for next time if a trainer ask you if you want to be paid digital or not. Not to mention some trainers actually don't accept a battle unless their win is digital credit."
"Well when you put it that way. Sure let's do it."
"Oh good," with a ghost of a smile, Misty pulls out her bank card. "Now keeping your bank account on screen. Point the camera's lens at my bank card."
Deep in learning more about how to use his poke-dex from Misty. Ash does what she asks without question. Forming soon, a split second after Misty's bank card profile appeared on the screen, the poke-dex's voice is heard.
"Temporary unactived Gym leader of Cerulean City gym, Mistrina Kasumi Waterflower, age 10..." For the moment Ash heard his device say Mistrina and caught the orange-haired give off she hates said name. He almost didn't hear the device ask him to push into the amount Misty wants to deposit into his account. But thinking all this was a demonstration. Ash was about to ask Misty what happens after the amount is in.
"Just put in 300 yens." But hearing what she just said makes him blink at her.
"Why? Wasn't this just a demonstration."
"Well Ash that was the whole reason I did this and we haven't left yet. I remember back in Pewter City, I left you with paying my meal. And now I rather pay that bill. So put in 300 yens."
Ok Ash can't lie to himself that he was annoyed that Misty had left him paying for both their bill. But than again he didn't refuse her taking a seat at his table when she asked if she could join him. Not to mention, now that he looks back at that event in a different light. Misty did actually offer him to use her water pokemon for his battle against Brock, even if she said she only help if he ask nicely. But he brushed the offer off smuggling. And if he was in her shoes then getting brushed off. He would of walked out of the restaurant too.
"I can't do that." Right away Misty didn't like that statement.
"What why not? You can't tell me you weren't angry I left you paying. I wasn't even out of the restaurant when I heard you at the top of your lungs, demand me to come back and pay for my meal. So again I'm just paying you back."
Despite her statement was true. It didn't make Ash feel any better her doing this. Mainly now with their secret friendship.
"Yes I did and said all that then. But that was when we weren't friends. We are now. And I'm not letting my friend pay me back for something that's in the past to me."
Although the words Ash said should seem sweet to Misty. But all she could do is frown. "If I feel I owe you despite what you say. I can't move on from this until you accept my money. In fact," Shooting out her hand enough to catch Ash off guard, Misty grasps the poke-dex from the other preteen. "If you won't do it, then I will."
Becoming a little angry at how Misty's making all this into a big deal. Ash with a growl from his throat. The raven-haired snatches back his poke-dex until both of the 10 year olds were in a tug of war with the poke-dex as the rope.
Unfortunately their commotion causes an audience within the lobby. Yet the two preteens were too focus on winning up on the other to notice the eyes on them. Pikachu on the other hand, not so much.
But all the mouse pokemon could do without shocking the two inside the lobby. Is just rub the side of his head, in embarrassment for not only him but them too.
Eventually, but still unaware of the eyes on them, Ash couldn't take anymore of this tug of war. "Why are you making this hard Misty?"
Despite usually her heart doesn't flutter at Ash saying her name and she's been able to control how him calling her Mist effected her. Yet from the way her name slips out from his tight lips in a growl and his angry but heated eyes stare at her. Additionally to that Misty realized she been nearly laying a top him on the sofa while wrestling the poke-dex from his surprisedly tight grip on part of the device.
Unfortunately for Misty with all that and her heart is a fluttering mess. Instantly she drawls back from her laying position on Ash until she was upright again on the sofa. However done this left Ash with the device. Realizing his good luck, Ash didn't waste time in deleting Misty's bank card profile display on the poke-dex's screen. Process canceling the entire unfinished transaction payment. "I know I owe you a bike but-"
Yet since Misty wouldn't look to Ash. She didn't know he already cancel the payment. "Ash it just doesn't feel right ok. So just let me pay-."
"No. I won't accept your money." Without needing to see them. By the stubbornness tone of his voice. Misty knows there was determination filling those brown eyes of his. Clearly telling her. She won't be able to change his mind.
Furthermost she didn't won't a replay of that kind of tug of war a moment ago. That's until she can get better hand on how this boy effects her both emotional and lately physical. That's why she lets out a defeated sigh. A sigh Ash clearly heard.
"How about this, Mist." Taking a chance, and don't want to leave here with them mad at each other or without Misty. Ash playfully nudges his arm against hers. "The next restaurant we stop at you pay, ok?"
Finally accepting this might be the closest she was going to get. She gives in. "Ok I guess I can agree to that." Again she feels Ash nudge her arm, playfully.
"So we good between us?"
Even if he's acting playful. Misty can hear the uneasy in his voice. Apparently he's actually fearing they're not good. And Misty can't resist in teasing him. That's why, keeping herself from laughing or smiling but paint a glaring expression on her face before, without warning, shifts her head to Ash. "Good, what do you think?" Actions startling the boy enough that he drawls back on the sofa. Which Misty is enjoying to see.
Oh this is too fun, that I can't help myself. Thinking this Misty keeps nearing her glaring face closer to Ash's uneasy one as he leans more and more into the sofa as she inches closer and closer. Then as Ash couldn't lean anymore into the sofa and Misty's nose was a inch from touching his. The orange-haired suddenly drops her glaring look at him to a full out grin. "Of course we're good." Just then as Ash caught a cute wink from Misty. He finds his cap next pulled down over his eyes and hearing a giggling Misty soon after.
"Mr. Pokemon master."
Unable to keep from grinning himself as he lift his cap up to spot Misty's retreating back as she runs for the exit of the center. Chuckling a bit as he shakes his head before looking to Pikachu perch on the sofa's arm chair. "Well at lease I know having Misty as a friend won't be boring."
"Pika." With a tilt of his head as in agreeing to that comment. Pikachu lands his feet upon Ash's shoulder as the preteen makes his way for the exit.
….……
Continues on into Chapter 3. Until then see ya and stay safe.