[4 Years Later]
It was a series of sharp knocks on the door across the room that roused Misty from her sleep. Groaning she ignored the knocks and pulled her sheets over her head so she could drown out the noise.
She let out a sigh as the knocking ceased; she thought whoever was knocking had left so she began to drift back into her sleep.
"Misty! Like Misty wake up, you got to get going soon!" Daisy shouted from the other side of the door. Mistys eyes snapped opened as she realized what today was, she leapt out of her bed and ran for door.
Opening the door she saw Daisy holding her bag and a change of clothes. "Hurry up and shower, if you don't hurry you won't get to Pallet till like tomorrow." Daisy hurriedly shoved Misty into the bathroom.
"Thanks for waking me Daisy!" Misty called as she closed the door to the bathroom behind her.
After a quick shower Misty got changed into a pair of blue skinny jeans, a bright red shirt, and a yellow hoodie that hugged her slim figure well. She combed her red hair and placed it into her familiar pony tail.
Once she was ready she left the bathroom and headed downstairs to have breakfast before leaving to Pallet. Walking into the kitchen she saw Daisy, Violet, and Lily, sitting around the table eating cereal and reading many of their fashion magazines.
Misty walked to the cupboard and pulled out a bowl, she then opened the fridge and pulled out the carton of milk. Sitting down beside Violet, she grabbed the cereal that was already on the table and poured it into the bowl, followed shortly by the milk.
She took a bite and sighed. "Are you guys sure you don't want to come? Delia loves the company, she wouldn't mind if you stayed as well," looking up from her magazine Lily replied "You know we can't Misty, we have to watch the gym and besides, we know how much time you like to spend with her."
"I know, but I wouldn't mind if you came on Christmas ya know." Misty replied a little sadly.
Giving her little sister a sympathetic smile, Violet wrapped her arm around Mistys shoulder and gave her a squeeze. "Don't worry little sis, we'll see if we can make it there, if the roads aren't too bad."
Misty didn't say anything to that, she fell into silence as she ate the rest of her cereal. She took a glance at the clock on the wall and saw it was 10:30. "Well, I better get going" Misty said getting up from where she sat and placed her bowl and spoon into the sink.
The sisters got up and followed Misty as she picked up her bag and headed for the doors of the gym.
"Who are you taking with you?" Daisy asked.
"Just Azurill, you'll need the others for battling."
"Well, I guess I'll be seeing you guys later," Misty said as looked at her big sisters.
They all looked at her and gave her a smile before they took her into a group hug. "We'll miss you little sis, you take care of yourself now!" Daisy cried.
"I will, I'll miss you guys too," she whispered quietly.
With that Misty left the gym.
-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-
Misty shivered as another chilly gust of wind picked up on the snow covered road. She had left the gym a few hours ago and was now well on her way Pallet town. It was now going to be the fourth year in a row that she had gone to Ashs house for the holidays since Ash had disappeared.
Misty and Brock had decided that each year they would come spend the holiday with Delia so she wouldn't be lonely on the holidays. During the four years she had made regular visits to Pallet at any chance she could get.
She spent time with Delia and Pikachu, who had taken up a permanent residence at the house to keep Delia company. She helped Delia out with cooking, gardening, chores and other things that need to be done around the house.
But she always made sure to take Pikachu up to the lab to play with the rest Ashs other Pokemon. She made this an important part of her visits so that they didn't feel like they had been forgotten.
After another few hours of walking Misty finally arrived at the Ketchum residence. Walking through the gate of the white picket fence she walked to up the door and knocked three times, a click of a lock could be heard on the other side. Seconds later the door swung open and standing in the door was a smiling Mrs. Ketchum.
"Misty dear! Come in, come in!" Delia said as she ushered Misty into the house.
"Hey there Mrs. K how have you been?" Misty asked as she was enveloped in to a tight hug.
"Oh I'm fine dear thanks for asking, how have you been?" Delia motioned for Misty to sit on the couch while she went to grab her something to eat.
"Same old same old I suppose."
Delia came back in moments later with a plate of cookies and a glass of juice for Misty. "That's good to hear." With that the two drifted into small talk and caught up with each other about the resent events in their lives.
Misty couldn't help but feel something was missing, but then it hit her. "Where's Pikachu Mrs. K?" She said looking around hoping her little friend would come say hello.
Delia chuckled at that. "Oh the poor little guy tuckered himself out at the lab today, so he went to sleep early," Misty had to smile at that, but she couldn't help the yawn that escaped her. "Oh I'm so sorry Misty where are my manners, you've been on the road all day you must be tired." Delia said getting up from the couch. She stole a glance at the clock and it was 11PM
"You get some rest and we'll talk in the morning, you know where the guest room is." She pointed to the stairs.
"Yup, thanks again Mrs. K for letting me stay here, it means a lot."
"Oh Misty you know I wouldn't have anything less. Now march up there and get some sleep missy!" Delia joked. Misty let out a quiet laugh and gave a quick wave before heading up the stairs.
Once upstairs she went to the bathroom to change into her pajamas, she headed down stairs and said a quick 'goodnight' to Delia before heading back up the stairs. She was about to go into her room, when she stopped because she noticed the door to Ashs room was cracked open.
She went over a quietly peeked into the dark room. As she looked in a wave of pain and sadness over took her as she saw all the badges, trophies, and pictures in the room. She walked over to the desk in the room and picked up the framed picture that sat on top.
In it was a picture of a grinning young Ash in the outfit he had worn when he, Misty, and Brock had been traveling together. On his left was a smiling Brock who had his hands in his pockets and on his right was herself grinning with her hand behind Ashs head making bunny ears.
A sad smile came across her face, being with Ash had always been the best time of her life, she felt blissful happiness whenever he was around, she felt like she could do anything with him by her side. Over time she felt that she didn't want to be his friend, she wanted more. She had grown strong feelings for him, which had remained with her to that day.
She had always been so afraid of what would happen if she told him she loved him, she was afraid that he'd laugh at her, reject her, or what she feared the most not want to be her friend anymore.
But the day Ash disappeared; she wished she could redo her time with him, just to tell him how she felt about him. A tear came down her cheek as she placed the photo back onto the desk.
She wiped away the tear and turned around and made her way toward the door, until something on the bed caught her eye. Curled up on the bed lay Pikachu, she went over and sat down next to him and slowly stroked his fur.
Pikachus eyes slowly opened to see who was petting it, as it saw who it was it shot up like it hadn't been asleep.
"Pikachupi!" Pikachu jumped into Mistys arms and nuzzled its face against her cheek. Hugging the little mouse tightly in her arms she giggled as he let out a happy "Chaa,"
"Hey there Pikachu how have you been, I missed my little buddy!" She giggled as she hugged Pikachu tighter. Pikachu responded by giving her a grin, then hugging her back.
"Well Pikachu I've got to get to bed, but I'll see you in the morning," she said getting up from the bed and placing Pikachu back on it.
Pikachu hesitated as Misty put him back onto the bed. Misty didn't notice and said goodnight before heading to her room. Misty walked into her room and was about to get into bed when she heard a scratching on the door.
Opening the door Pikachu stood looking up at her with a smile on his face. "Need something Pikachu?" Misty asked suppressing a yawn.
"Pika pika pikachu," he said pointing at the bed. Misty smiled as she knew what Pikachu was asking. Picking up the electric type she walked over to the bed and placed Pikachu onto the bed, following quickly she scooted underneath the covers.
Pikachu crawled up beside her and curled into a ball closing its eyes. "G'night Pikachu," she said softly before drifting off into sleep.
-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-
The following days were uneventful; Misty spent most of the time with Delia helping her around the house, and spending time up at the lab with Pikachu and the other Pokemon.
It was 5 days before Christmas and Brock was going to be showing up in a day or two. Misty, with the help of Pikachu, was helping set up the second guestroom for Brock. While Pikachu put pillows into clean pillowcases she had stripped the bed and began to put on clean sheets. Humming to herself Misty picked up the pillows Pikachu had finished with and put them onto the bed.
"All done Pikachu!" she said cheerfully.
"Pika!" Pikachu jumped up onto her shoulder, and nuzzled his face against her cheek.
Giggling Misty shut off the light and made her way to the stairs. She stopped when the hall lights flickered on and off. Pikachu looked to the light switch at the other end of the hall but no one was there. Shrugging they went to the kitchen to get a snack.
Misty made herself her favorite drink, hot chocolate, while Pikachu happily snacked on a bottle of ketchup. The front door opened and was quickly slammed shut. Curious Misty peeked her head into the living room to see Delia taking her jacket off.
"That's one strong wind out there Misty! Won't be going back out there tonight!" Delia exclaimed trying to fix her windblown hair. Misty giggled and asked if she'd like some hot chocolate. Delia eagerly agreed and came into the kitchen with Misty.
"So do you know when Brock will be getting here?" Misty asked taking a sip of her hot chocolate.
"Sometime around noon the day after tomorrow,"
"That's great; it'll be great to see him again."
"It rea-"Delia was cut off when the kitchen window was slammed open by the wind.
Startled Misty and Delia quickly ran over to the window, and with a little bit of effort they managed to shut and lock it.
"It's really blowing out there isn't it" Misty said quietly.
"Sure is, I'd hate to be caught out in the snow with this weather." Delia replied.
It was getting late around 10, so the two girls, along with Pikachu went into the living room and plopped down onto the couch. They decide to put in a romance movie 'Both enjoyed them immensely' and began to watch intently. Nearing the end of the movie they both had fallen asleep, Pikachu had fallen asleep in Mistys lap.
Pikachu wasn't sure what it was that had begun to wake it up. Yawning it carefully crept out of Mistys lap and looked at the time. It was nearing 2AM so it decided to make its way up to Ashs room to sleep.
Pikachu slowly went to climb the stairs, but something stopped it. He could hear a very faint sound. Pikachu looked around the room listening intently try to find the source sound was coming from. It sounded like a very feint thumping sound.
Pikachu narrowed down where the sound came from, when a louder thump from the front door alerted it. Pikachu cocked his head at the door, waiting for the sound to begin again. It didn't.
Pikachu walked up to the door and tapped it, as if it was going to respond. It didn't. So Pikachu hopped up to the window behind the TV and checked to see if it could make out what was at the door. He couldn't see it perfectly but there was a black form leaning against the door.
That was good enough for Pikachu, he hopped into Mistys lap and began tapping her on the head to wake her up. After a minute of tapping Misty finally opened her eyes. "Pikachu? What are you doing(Yawn) what time is it?" She asked groggily. Pikachu then began to chat to her while pointing at the door.
Rubbing her eyes Misty looked to where Pikachu was pointing. "Someone there Pikachu? Is it Brock?" Misty stood up and with Pikachu leading the way she went to unlock the door.
Opening the door, she reeled back with a startled yelp as the door swung open and a person fell into the house. Pikachu leapt back in shock with sparks shooting from its cheeks as the person fell into the house.
Delia startled by Mistys scream, leapt up from her sleep and stared at Misty wide eyed, and then she caught the figure on the ground.
"Misty! Who is that! Why did you scream!" Delia exclaimed confusion and startled by what she saw in front of her.
"I-I don't know who it is! Pikachu woke me up and pointed to the door, I opened it and this guy fell in!" Misty exclaimed in shock pointing at the person who still lay in an unmoving heap on the ground." Her heart was still beating furiously after being half scared to death.
The two girls watched as Pikachu slowly moved closer to the person. He was wearing dark blue jeans, black and white sneakers, a badly torn black hoodie, he had a black back pack slung over his back that appeared to be full, and he also had 3 pokeballs on his belt. The hood was up so they couldn't make out any physical features.
Pikachu poked him, the person didn't move, Pikachu poked him a little harder, he didn't move. Pikachu stood up and went to look at his face which was facing away from them. Looking at the person Pikachu couldn't help but think that he'd seen this person before.
"Careful Pikachu," Misty whispered at what Pikachu was doing.
Pikachu took the hood and forced it down off the persons head. Under the hood was black hair covered by a black baseball cap, but at the tips of the hair, a shade of almost white hair could be seen. Pikachu studied the person carefully, taking a careful step forward he sniffed him.
That did it. Pikachus eyes widened, he started playing around with the boys hair moving it out of his face. He then took off the cap and his jaw dropped.
Now Misty and Delia were more than a little confused at what Pikachu was doing, but when they saw his expression they knew something was wrong. It didn't take long for them to figure it out.
Pikachu looked up at them and whispered.
"Pikapi!"
-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-
The room fell silent, except for the sound of the wind coming through the still open door.
Delia and Misty paled, and their jaws dropped when they heard what Pikachu had said.
'Pikapi, Pikapi, Pikapi,' the words kept repeating in her head. 'it couldn't be he's gone, he's, he's, Pikapi, Pikapi, Pikapi'
Pikachu had begun to try and roll the person over onto his back; he was having trouble so without looking up he motioned for Misty and Delia to help him. When no one came to help him he looked up.
Misty and Delia were frozen in place, like ice had filled their veins disabling them from moving. Pikachu ran up and started shaking Misty. She didn't move, she was far too deep into thought. Pikachu tried Delia, he got the same result.
Pikachu looked back at the figure on the ground and knew he couldn't leave him there.
"Pika-Chuuu!" Pikachu cried out as Electricity shot from the red electric pouches on its cheeks, hitting the two frozen girls.
"AAAAH!" Screamed both girls as electricity coursed through their bodies, bringing them back to their senses. Looking at Pikachu they could see he was chatting furiously as he pointed at who he said was Ash. Delia and Misty looked at each other and went to flip the person over.
Flipping him over they could make out his face perfectly, the messy raven black hair, his eyes were closed; the face was covered in dirt, and the firm jaw.
The gasped. They were pale before, but now they were as white as the snow outside. They looked at him with too many emotions to count. They were happy, terrified, shocked, ecstatic, excited, and much more.
Delia bent over him and grabbed his face with her hands it felt ice cold, she felt like she was dreaming. Her baby boy was back from the dead. "It's him Misty…It's really him…" Her voice faltered as tears streamed down her face. Misty was too dumbfounded to say anything.
But soon Delias motherly instinct kicked in. Delia shot up from where she was on the ground, she slammed the door closed and turned to Misty. "Grab his legs Misty we have to get Ash upstairs into bed! He's going to freeze to death!" She shouted. Misty quickly took off his backpack and placed it against the wall, she then went around Ash and grabbed his legs.
She expected him to be heavier, but he was a lot lighter then she would have expected. They carried him up the stairs and brought him into the guestroom Misty had prepared earlier. Once he was on the bed Misty took a moment to get a good look at him.
Pikachu hopped up onto the bed and sat beside Ash, as Delia pulled the covers down and moved him under them. Once he was under, she pulled the covers back up to Ashs chin. Pikachu crawled onto Ashs chest and curled up.
Misty looked at Ash, than to Delia who was staring at him as if he was going to leap off the bed at any moment and pull her into a hug any second. Misty walked over to her and grasped her into a tight hug, Delia more than willingly reciprocated.
The two began to sob into each others shoulder; they were not tears of sadness tho, no. They were tears of joy. After that they sat on the bed and waited. Not saying a word, they sat there and waited.
-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-
Warmth spread over his face, he didn't want to open his eyes. He hadn't felt this comfortable in ages. He tried to turn over but he felt something on his chest. His eyes slowly fluttered opened. The warmth he had felt had come from the light that had come through a crack in the curtains of the room he was in.
He went to rub his eyes but found his arms were constricted tightly under the covers. He finally looked to see what was on his chest. His heart skipped a beat, a stricken expression on his face.
"P-Pikachu?" He asked.
Pikachus ears twitched at the sound of his voice. Pikachus eyes opened and they were instantly filled with happiness. "Pikapi!" Pikachu jumped up and snuggled up to Ash, tears in his eyes.
Ash finally able to free his arms of the sheets, took Pikachu into his arms and pulled him into a tight hug. Tears ran down Ashs cheeks, as he hugged his best friend for the first time in four years. "I-I missed you so much buddy, I wanted to see you every day but I couldn't." His voice cracked as more tears came down his face.
Pikachu snuggled deep into Ashs chest tears now coming down his face. He didn't want Ash to let go of him he was to happy, and relieved that his best friend was back after so long. Pikachu looked up into Ashs brown eyes, he gave Ash a lick on the cheek which made Ash laugh a little and pull him closer.
Ash finally let Pikachu out of the hug, which Pikachu seemed to resist at first. He pulled himself out of bed, and looked around the room. He was in the guest room. "Hey Pikachu, I need you to check the hall to see moms up here, can you do that for me?"
"Pi Pikapi!" Pikachu leapt off the bed, Ash slowly and quietly opened the door and made sure to stay out of sight. Pikachu popped his head through the small crack in the door and looked down the hall, he glanced up at Ash and shook his head in a 'no' fashion.
Ash let out a sigh, "Thanks buddy," smiling he knelt down next to Pikachu and scratched behind his ear the way he used to like it. Apparently he still did, Pikachu grinned face lighting up at the touch of his friend scratching his favorite area behind his ears. This instantly brought a grin to Ashs face.
Looking around the room Ash did not see his bag, and that was a problem. "Pikachu I need your help," he asked smiling at his long time best friend. Pikachu nodded vigorously at a chance to help Ash, it would feel great to do it again!
"Thanks, I'm going to go into the bathroom and have a shower. But before I do I need you to go down stairs and get me my bag." He stopped as he thought about something. "If someone follows you I need you to knock once on the door okay?" Pikachu nodded, "once you're alone knock three times okay?" Pikachu nodded again. "Let's go!" Ash whispered.
Ash snuck down the hallway extremely quietly, which Pikachu thought was uncanny. The Ash he remembered would have made enough noise to wake the dead.
Ash silently opened the bathroom door and motioned for Pikachu to get his bag. Seeing Pikachu head downstairs he quickly entered and closed the bathroom door and with a click, he locked it.
-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-
Pikachu scampered down the stairs. This immediately drew the attention of Misty and Delia who were sitting on the couch quietly talking, about Ash no doubt. Pikachu hadn't left Ash since he got back, which meant that Ash might be up. Seeing Pikachu they followed him with their eyes.
Pikachu saw the bag and grabbed it with his paws and slowly began to drag it toward the stairs. This confirmed Misty and Delias suspicions. They got up and followed Pikachu as he dragged the bag up the stairs.
At the top of the stairs Pikachu stopped to catch his breath, the bag was pretty heavy. After recovering his breath he dragged it down the rest of the hall toward the bathroom. He was about to knock when he felt like he was being watched.
Turning around he saw that Misty and Delia were right behind him watching him curiously. Pikachu stared at them, and they stared back. Pikachu broke the silence.
Knock.
Pikachu stared at them, they stared back. A moment of silence followed, until.
Knock.
Once again the staring contest began. Misty took a hesitant step forward. Delia did the same. Pikachu cocked his head sideways as he watched them curiously. Mistys heart began to beat furiously, she wasn't sure why but Pikachu knew something, he hadn't said anything and he was giving her a confused look.
The silence was broken by three rapid knocks on the door. But Pikachu didn't do it. But it did however knock once.
Knock.
The hallway turned silent. Misty took a shot, the silence was awkward and odd and she knew Ash was up by the fact Pikachu was knocking on the bathroom door and it was magically knocking back.
"A-Ash are y-you in there?" She stammered but said it loud enough so that it could be heard in the bathroom. No answer.
"Honey, its mom are you in if you are please say something," Again no answer. But there was a knock
Knock.
Pikachu pointed to the stairs. Misty and Delias gazed followed and looked at the stairs, they then looked at each other and then back at Pikachu. Delia pointed at the stairs, Pikachu nodded and gave smile.
Honestly they didn't know what was going on, but it was odd and awkward. Before they did what Pikachu was telling them, Delia tried one thing. She ran up to the door beside Pikachu, and knocked on the door hard. "Ash honey please open the door, I-I-I wanna see my little boy I miss you so much!" She had tears welling up in her eyes.
There was no answer.
She sighed, and turned back to Misty, Misty noticed she had a slightly hurt expression on her face. Misty noted for when she did see Ash he was going to get a slap for that.
The two turned and went down the stairs. But they couldn't help but hear three rapid knocks on the door followed by it quickly opening then shutting closed.
'Boy is he gonna get it!' Misty thought.
-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-
Ash heard the three knocks, he unlocked the door and swung it open quickly. He pulled in Pikachu and his bag. He quickly shut it and locked it again. Ash sat on the floor next to Pikachu. He took his bag and undid the zipper. Searching around for a second he took out a change of underwear, another pair of jeans, a short sleeved black V-neck t-shirt, and a black baseball cap.
"Thanks Pikachu, I can't see them quite yet. But if you want I'm gonna take a shower so you can go downstairs and see them if you like.
"Chu Pikapi" Pikachu smiled and stretched down on the floor.
"Okay buddy, I'll be done in a few minutes," With that Ash gave Pikachu a smile and a scratch behind the ear and turned on the shower.
Getting in the shower felt like heaven, the last time he had a shower with hot water had been, well over a month ago. Ash began to lather shampoo into his hair, drifting into thought as he did so. 'This is going to be hard, if they've let a single person know I've been here I'm going to have to leave right away. On the other hand, I'm going need a few excuses most can be the truth, but I can't go into too much detail.
Shampoo now out of his hair he shut off the water and grabbed the towel that was hung over the shower curtain. Drying himself off, he changed into his clean clothes and looked into the mirror. He really had to fix his hair that was number one on his to-do list after he hopefully talked with his mom…and Misty? Which surprised him greatly.
Ash took a deep breath before setting his face in to an emotionless expression. He had gotten himself ready for a moment like this.
Pikachu seeing Ash about to open the door got up from where he was sprawled out on the floor. Ash pulled his cap down so that his eyes would be shielded from the two downstairs. "Let's go Pikachu." Ash said opening the door.
-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-
Misty and Delias heads snapped up when they heard the sound of a door closing. Their hearts beat faster as they heard quiet footsteps from upstairs. Pikachu ran down the stairs and onto the couch beside them smiling. For them time seemed to slow down, it felt like an hour before they finally saw him.
They stared at him, they couldn't tell if he was looking back his eyes were hidden by the shadow from the hat he was wearing.
Misty took in everything she could about him. He was definitely taller than when she had last seen him. He was well muscled, she could see that by the shirt he had on. He also had his back pack on, she hoped to God that he wasn't leaving. The one thing that was undeniable about him was there was an air of confidence around him but he was tense, she wasn't sure if that was a good thing or a bad thing.
She wished she could see his eyes tho, she knew that the eyes were the way to their soul, and that's where the curiosity burned. She longed to know if he was still the same person she had fallen in love with all those years ago.
"A-Ash?" Delias voice was quiet and it wavered. She got up from the couch and took a step towards him. He took a step back. Her heart sank, tears came streaming down her face.
"Have you told anyone?" His voice was deeper, it wasn't harsh it had no emotion in how he said it, the only way to describe it would be…Calm.
"What do yo-"
"Have you told anyone I've been here?" He looked to her and Misty.
"N-No sweetie,"
"You're sure? If you've told anyone I need to know!" His voice was so calm it was almost scary.
"N-No I swear honey we-we haven't told anyone, when we got you into bed we waited for you to get up"
He stood as if he was made of stone. He stood there motionless, they couldn't help but feel like he was analyzing them for to see if what they had said was the truth. But he let out a deep breath. He shrugged his backpack off his shoulder and placed it quietly on the ground. Then to Misty and Delias relief he took off his hat, they could now see his eyes.
Ash stepped forward and before Delia knew it she was being held tightly in a hug. The shock, the happiness, the warmth, the fact that she wasn't dreaming all hit her like a ton of bricks. She broke down crying she threw her arms around him and sobbed into his chest. He held her close and rubbed her back to comfort her. He rocked her back and forth to try and sooth her.
Misty sat silently, there were tears in her eyes from the sweet sight, and she knew that she would be next. Misty noticed he was still rather calm, instead of being emotional about this.
After a few minutes of holding her, her crying had almost stopped. He slowly loosened the hug so he could look at her. "I-Its rea-l-l-ly you A-Ash?" She hiccupped as she whispered this.
He smiled at her, "It's really me mom, I'm home," he gave her a peck on the cheek to prove she wasn't dreaming. She hugged him as tightly as she could, she wanted to say something, anything but she was speechless. He rocked her back and forth a little more to get her to calm down. After another minute he released the hug and helped her to the couch, she was shaking terribly.
Once she had sat down, Ash said he would be just a second. He ran upstairs in a flash, and appeared seconds later with a blanket that he draped around her shoulders. She gripped the blanket and smiled at him tears still running down her face.
For Misty her heart stopped. He turned to her and gave her a smile. She shakily got to her feet. She didn't know what to do, she wanted to him to hold her so bad, but she couldn't. Instead however.
She swung her hand at Ashs face with all the power she could muster, she expected to hear a satisfying 'Smack' but what happened caught her off guard.
Ash raised his hand and grasped the hand she had swung at him firmly. Her and Delia mouth gaped at Ash. The grip Ash had on her hand was strong, but know where near enough to make it hurt. Misty stared at their hands, until she realized that Ash was looking at her. She felt ashamed at what she tried to do, but when she looked into Ashs eyes they seemed show that he… Understood why she had tried it.
The next thing she knew was that she felt an arm go around her waist and one around her shoulders which drew her closer to him. Her heart leapt at the feeling that overcame her. Being held by him for the first time in years made her shake. She remembered the day he had disappeared and the pain that caused her. But now it all seemed to vanish
She threw her arms around him and cried into his chest, he held her tighter then he had before. He began to rock her back and forth like he had to his mom, it worked well, the way she was held and the way the rocking motion calmed her, she felt like she was in heaven and all this was too good to be true. She looked into his brown eyes, and melted at what she felt. His gaze was so comforting, so compassionate, it felt so right.
On the verge of breaking into more tears she snuggled her head into his chest. He held her there for what in her mind felt like an eternity. After her shaking had died down he went to release the hug, but was baffled when she didn't let go, she held him tighter so he couldn't get away.
Her heart leapt as he lifted her chin so she could look at him, she felt her face flush because their faces were only inches apart, but he wouldn't know because she was sure her face was red enough due to her crying. He then said softly, "Come on Mist, sit down and I'll make you two some hot chocolate, I'm sure you've got plenty of questions to ask."
She didn't answer, but she very reluctantly and shakily released her grip from around him. And took his offered hand, as he helped her sit down. "Are you two okay by yourself for a bit if I go make you something to drink?" He asked soft and quietly. They didn't meet his eyes, but they both nodded.
Ash hesitated, before getting Pikachu who had been observing the scene unfold in front of him curiously, to come with him into the kitchen. Misty and Delia didn't say a word; they were too deep in thought to say anything, not to mention if one of them said something they might burst into tears again.
"So far so good Pikachu, I'm going to have to go out later tho, so if you could take care of mom and Misty for me I'd be grateful."
"Pi chu Pikapi chu pika pika chu pi," Pikachu answered trying to get into the fridge.
Ash chuckled at Pikachu, he opened the fridge for his friend and pulled out the ketchup bottle and handed it to him. Pikachu grinned up at his best friend, who obviously hadn't forgotten his love for the tasty red treat.
Ash finished the drinks and brought them out to the two girls. Delia who had almost recovered from when she had first seen Ash took hers into her hands and gave him a tired grin. Misty took hers into her shaky hands; Ash seeing that she might spill put his hands over hers to help her steady the cup.
Misty felt a blush beginning to light up her face; she mumbled what Ash thought was a thank you and smiled down at her. She didn't dare meet his gaze, she knew that if she did she would shake more than before.
Delia couldn't help but smile as she saw Ash helping Misty by holding her hands. 'Oh isn't that the most adorable thing, he really has matured. Too bad I wasn't there to see it tho' she thought sadly as another tear escaped her eyes.
Ash noticed this immediately, "Are you okay mom?" He asked gently giving her that toothy smile she loved so much. Her heart welled up, she hadn't seen him so caring for them before in his life, it was touching to see such a sensitive side to him.
"I'm fine honey, just a little emotional right now," he nodded, he understood perfectly. He had known that is was going to be a very stressful time for them, and that emotions would be all over the place. That was best described when Misty had tried to slap him.
Ash went to the kitchen and got himself a chair and brought it into the living room and placed it so he was facing the two of them.
The room was quiet; Ash was waiting for one of them to bring up a question so that he could get started. He didn't rush them because he wanted them to be somewhat stable before he got to certain questions.
-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-
They sat in silence except for the occasional slurp as one of the girls took a drink. He took a glance at the clock; it was 4 in the afternoon. He cleared his throat apologetically, getting their attention. "I don't want to be rude," he said it as softly and as gently as he could. "But I need to make a phone call, so if I do that it will take maybe 5 minutes. If I do that do you think you'll want to ask any question when I'm done?"
"Sure honey go ahead, Misty and I will be ready by then. Were sorry to keep you waiting." Delia smiled at him.
"It's fine mom, I'll answer whenever you two are ready. I'll be back in a couple minutes." Ash said getting up from his seat. Pikachu was about to follow when Ash stopped him. "Sorry Pikachu, I need to make this phone call alone. It's nothing special, just an errand I need to get done." Pikachus ears drooped a little as Ash said this. Ash crouched down so he was level with his buddy.
Ash scratched behind Pikachus ears and motioned at his backpack. "I tell you what, you wait here and get these two talking and I'll show you all something," Pikachus ears perked up at that, little did Ash know that caught the attention of Misty and his mom.
Ash put the hat he had worn before back on so that it half concealed and revealed his eyes. Misty noted that it gave him a slight air of mystery about him. Ash walked into the kitchen and turned on the video phone. He took the phone book and looked through the yellow pages. He scanned it until he stopped at a number. He dialed it in and waited as the phone rang.
The phone was picked up by a perky brunette with lively green eyes and freckles on her face. "Hello this is Cindy from Pallet Snippers, how can I help you?" She asked cheerfully.
"Hey there Cindy I was wondering if I could make an appointment for around 10AM tomorrow?"
"Sure thing, please hang on a second while I grab a pen." Ash gave her a smile as she disappeared off the screen. Moments later she reappeared in front of the screen with a pen in hand.
"We have open times at 10:15, 10:30, and 10:50. Would you like one of those times?" She asked happily.
Ash pursed his lips in thought. Smiling he said "Could you sign me up for the 10:15 slot?"
"Sure thing, all I need is your name."
Without a hesitation Ash replied "Shay," he paused as she wrote it down. "Flasoda," she asked him to spell it out for her which he assumed she would.
"Well looks like we'll see you tomorrow at 10 Mr. Flasoda,"
"Alright see you then," he replied smiling. With that he hung up the phone and returned to the living room.
-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-
Ash returned to the living room and sat back down in front of the two girls. They seemed to have gotten themselves pretty much under control.
Pikachu came and hopped up onto his lap. "So, any questions?" Ash asked softly.
Misty shook her head, but Delia spoke up. "Um actually dear, I do have a small question." Ash gave her a reassuring smile that coaxed her to continue.
"I was wondering…" her voice trailed off, but was soon picked up as she saw Ash smiling at her "When you came down stairs, why d-did you step back when I took a step towards you."
Ash nodded at the simple question, he knew the tougher ones would come up later, but he'd answer those at a different time.
"Well remember when I asked you if you had told anyone I was here?" She nodded. "If you had I would have had to leave right away." Her and Mistys mouth dropped a little at that.
"I couldn't let anyone know I was here, and before you ask why, it's something I can't answer for you quite yet. But you'll understand in a day or two." Delia was confused at that answer, but decide to not to press the matter anymore.
"Um Ash?" Misty met his gaze as he looked over to her and she shyly looked away. "Um who did you call on the phone just a moment ago. You said you couldn't have anyone knowing you were here so…" She trailed off leaving him to finish the statement for her.
"I'm glad you asked that Mist," She hung her head bashfully as she felt herself warm up when he called her that. "Hair cut" he replied simply.
Delia looked up curious now, Misty forgetting her previous shyness. "What do you mean 'hair cut'?" Ash face palmed as he realized he needed to explain a lot more.
"Tomorrow are you two by any chance going up to the lab?" he asked curiosity in his voice.
"We didn't plan on it, why?" Ash didn't answer immediately he was deep in thought.
"How's Brock doing?" Ash finally asked. The two girls looked dumbfounded at him, he had been talking about getting a haircut than going to the lab, and now he changes it to Brock?
He raised an eyebrow at them. "Well he's doing fine, he should be here tomorrow but wh-" Delia stopped at what she had said. "Oh my goodness! Brock's going to be here tomorrow! We got to fix the guest bed and oh my I'm going to have to still get the tree out!" Delia was panicking, but stopped when she felt Ash put his arms around her in a hug.
"Thanks honey, I needed that. With this whole thing going on I forgot Brock was coming."
Ash smiled at her which instantly put a smile back on her face. "It's okay, but Brock is coming tomorrow?"
"Yeah we've come for Christmas every year since you…" Misty trailed off not wanting to continue.
Ash gave her a sympathetic look, he knew it was harder for her then it was for him. They spent years wondering if he was dead or if by some miracle he was alive, and if he was, where was he.
"it's okay Misty," he placed his hand on top of hers to get her to look at him. "Tomorrow I'm going to need your help. But first what time is Brock going to be arriving at?"
"Probably around two why?"
"I'm going to need you, mom, and Pikachu to not be here when he arrives. I need you to leave a note on the door saying that you've gone to the lab. But you can't say a word about me being here. I want you two to get Brock, Prof. Oak, Tracey, and Gary if he's there, into the research room and I'll take it from there."
"What do you plan on doing" Delia asked him curiously. "Giving everyone a Christmas Miracle,"
Clapping his hands lightly together, he looked at the time. He took a look at the clock and saw that it was 5 o'clock. "Well that's enough of this for now. Why don't you two go have a shower, or take a nap. I don't think you slept last night did you?" They shook their head.
"Well as of right now you two relax I'll get supper ready, but I want you two to be stress free. Today's been a long day and I would feel a lot better knowing that you to were taking it easy, so if you need anything, and I mean anything you let me know and I'll get it done."
Misty and Delia gaped at what Ash had said; for starters he had said he would cook dinner, and that Ash had basically implied that he'd be their slave for the rest day.
Ash got up and headed for the kitchen, while Misty and Delia watched in astonishment as Ash got to work. Delia hesitant at first, but took Ash up on his offer and went to take a nap. She was dead tired, physically and mentally. Misty on the other hand took a shower before coming to join Ash in the kitchen.
"Hi Ash," she spoke quietly so that she wouldn't startle him. Hearing her voice he spun around and flashed her his toothy smile. 'Gosh he looks so cute when he looks at me like that; it's so hard to concentrate when he has that goofy smile on.' She bit her lip nervously as she came in and sat at the kitchen table.
"Ash?" She asked him.
"Yeah Mist? You got a question?"
"Umm no not really it's just, I wanted to say that I really missed you." She lowered her head so he wouldn't see the tears that she was holding back.
Ash turned on the stove before he turned to Misty. Turning around he saw that she was hiding her face. Walking over beside her he pulled up a chair and sat beside her. Ash gently put his arm around her and pulled her close to him. "I know Misty, I've missed you every day that I've been gone. It was a lot harder for you then it was for me because you didn't know if I was dead or alive right?"
She nodded not looking up, "Its okay to cry Misty, don't be afraid to. And besides I've got a shoulder for you anytime if you need one," He smiled at her and playfully nudged her with his elbow.
Misty giggled and looked at Ashs smiling face. He was so caring, and his voice was soothing. She wanted him to hug her again, she felt so happy in his arms.
"D-Do I have to be crying for a hug?" She asked a little curiously. Ashs face lit up into a grin as he got up from his seat and helped her up.
"Of course not," he whispered pulling her tightly into his arms.
Misty wrapped her arms around him and held him tightly, her heart lifted as he began rocking her back and forth the way he had before.
Ash broke the hug slowly, this time Misty let go reluctantly but not without trying keep him there. "You want to help me with supper?"
Misty bit her bottom lip as she thought about it. "I'm not to great in the kitchen remember Ash, you might be better off on your own," embarrassed as she was at this. It was the truth.
"Alright, but if you change your mind let me know," chuckling as he said this he got back to work.
Misty sat back down and looked at him working. When a thought crossed her mind. "Ash did you make an appointment with the hair salon?"
"Yeah why?"
"Well you have to give your name to make an appointment, and like you said before you didn't want people to know you were here. And if people heard Ash Ketchum that would start some commotion don't ya think?"
Ash laughed quietly to himself, "Can you stir the rice for me and ill grab something to show you," He asked bringing her over to the stove. Misty took the wooden spoon and began to stir as Ash left the kitchen. A minute later he returned with Pikachu on his shoulder and his back pack in his hands.
Pikachu hopped off his shoulder and onto the table as Ash set the bag down and unzipped one of the pouches. He stuck his hand into the bag and pulled out two items. A thin case, and a Pokedex.
Misty stopped stirring and looked at the case Ash was handing her. Looking at Ash he motioned for her too open the case. She lifted the lid and inside was what looked like three badges.
Misty gasped, "Ash? Are these badges?" She asked incredulously!
"Yup, well actually a little different but they mean the same thing. But after the… 'Accident' my Pokedex was destroyed. And I didn't have a Pokemon, or a Pokedex and I knew I couldn't go to Prof. Oak, Birch, Rowan, or Elm, so I had to go somewhere I hadn't been before. Somewhere where no one would recognize me."
"Where did you go?" She was dead curious now.
"The Orre region, very dangerous place, there isn't really a league, but there are coliseums that you battle in, and once you win four of the seven coliseums you become eligible to enter Mt. Battle."
"Mt. Battle? What's that?" Misty was intrigued about this now, Ash had 3 badge things so he only needed one more.
"Basically there are 10 tiers, each has a specific Pokémon type, and there are 10 trainers per tier."
Misty gasped, "That's over a hundred battles!" Misty exclaimed.
"Trust me Misty if you think that's tough wait till you hear this, Once you start a tier, you have to battle all 10 trainers back to back or you won't qualify for the next tier. So you can't take your Pokemon to Nurse Joy. You have to keep battling."
Misty shook her head in amazement. "And you're trying to participate for this thing! I thought you didn't have any Pokemon?"
Ash took the rice off the burner, and pulled the chicken out from the oven. Getting 4 plates down from the cupboard he placed a portion of rice and a piece of chicken on each and set them around the table.
"I'll answer that in a sec, I need to go wake up mom. "Okay?"
"Okay,"
Ash hurried upstairs and woke his mom and brought her down stairs. Once she sat down Ash gave Pikachu his plate, he took the last bottle of ketchup from the fridge and placed it next Pikachu.
He placed a plate in front of Misty and his mom before sitting down himself. He then went on to inform his mom on what Misty and him had been discussing. Delia gasped at what her son had told her.
"Honey, that's quiet the challenge are you sure your up for it?"
Ash couldn't help it, for old times and, his moms and Misty sake he puffed out his chest and stuck his nose in the air. With a smirk he said "Well of course I am! I'm Ash Ketchum after all, former Pokemon League champion and soon to be Pokemon Master! No challenge is too great for me!" He exclaimed.
Misty and Delia burst into giggles at the all too familiar expression Ash had just done. It had brought back so many memories of his over confidence and his big ego.
Smiling, Ash let the giggling end before he started the topic again. "And that's where Misty and I left off, how could I participate without any Pokemon right?" Pikachus ears perked up, he wanted to hear this as well. "Well since I couldn't return to pick up any of my Pok-" Misty interrupted him.
"Um Ash? Why couldn't you come back?" Ashs face drained of color. This was the question he didn't want to answer quite yet, but it was the factor that tied into all the other question he would be asked. He opened his mouth to reply but no sound came out.
Delia looked at him worriedly, this was the first time since he's been with them that he hadn't spoken immediately, and the expression on his face showed that this was uncomfortable for him.
"Honey?" No reply, "Honey?" Delia leaned across the table and gave him a shake.
"Huh?" Ash as said as he was roused from his thoughts. "O-o s-sorry, Misty ill answer that tomorrow. Not tonight, we don't need to talk about that tonight."
"What happened Ash?" Ash turned to her and stared her directly in the eye. Misty could see that the look in his eyes were begging her to drop it," "Sorry Ash, I didn't mea-" he stopped her,
"Its okay Misty, you'll find out tomorrow, I just don't want to have to tell it twice okay?" Misty nodded.
They sat in silence until Ash recollected his thoughts, and continued his story. "Well I didn't have any Pokemon with me, I had to figure out where I could find one. And then I was in Johto when it hit me."
Ash reached for his belt and took off a pokeball, showing it to the two girls. "It took a while for me to get there because I was on foot. But when I got there, I met up with an old friend," Ash drifted into thought as he remembered what happened.
"Who Ash?"
Ash smiled at the two of them and simply said. "Charizard!"
Misty and Delias jaw dropped! "W-What! You went back to the Charific Valley? We heard Charizard ran away!" Misty exclaimed! They had been so worried two years ago when Charizard disappeared.
"Liza said Charizard took off one night and never came back!" Delia hadn't said a thing, she was still in shock.
"Well not exactly, Charizard had watched the attack at the league on TV; he had been depressed ever since it came back from the lab to see if I was okay. When he had gone back to the Valley it wasn't training as hard, and was often alone. And this went on for a while, until I showed up."
"I showed up one day tired, bruised and had cuts all over my body. When I reached the gates Liza didn't recognize me."
"It took some convincing, but when she didn't believe I was Ash I reminded her what happened when we first arrived there and dropped Charizard off. She let me in, and the first thing I had to do was see Charizard, he was by himself in one of the caves, when he saw me come in, he thought I was a stranger, so he torched me with a flamethrower."
Ash began to laugh quietly at the memory. "And when I laughed, and said 'It's nice to see you to Charizard' Charizard couldn't believe it was me. And well, after we reunited I told Liza about everything that happened and begged her not to tell anyone. And then I asked Charizard to come with me, and he more than willingly agreed."
"There's more to the story, but nothing really important."
"After you got Charizard did you go straight to Orre?"
"No, I did a lot before going there, but those stories can wait, but we got fairly side tracked didn't we, back to the original question," he picked up the Pokedex from the table. "When I arrived in Orre, I went the 'Pokemon HQ' to get a Pokedex, and when your new to that region they ask your name..." He trailed off and started giggling, which Misty and Delia thought was strange. "What did you tell them?"
Ash looked at them grinning, "Well you see, I knew I couldn't use my name, so I had to think of a new one. I didn't want it to be to different. So I named myself Shay Flasoda!" He proclaimed giggling even more.
"Where did you think of that?" Misty asked obviously confused by his choice.
"Well move the 'A' in front of the 'S,' and you get Ashy." The corner of Delias lips began to tilt upward. Misty then asked "What about your last name?"
"Well I thought I was rather genius with that name. At the time, I was drinking a soda, and I was on the spot and needed something. I realized that the soda was little flat. So I slurred 'Flat soda' together to get Flasoda!" Ash exclaimed proudly.
Misty stared at him incredulously. But she couldn't help but have the smile break out onto her face, before she started to laugh. Delia joined in and Pikachu just stared at Ash as he put his Pokedex into his back pocket.
-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-
As the dinner went on Ash asked Delia and Misty about things that had happened while he was gone. After more small talk, Ash took and cleaned their dishes after they had finished dinner. Delia offered to due them, but Ash reminded her about what he had said before.
Misty, Pikachu, and Delia sat on the couch and watched TV while, Ash did the dishes and made the beds. After a while, Ash came down stairs and picked up his bag, and slung it over his shoulder. He cleared his throat to get the two girls attention.
Turning their head to look at him, they noticed it looked like he was going to leave. "Honey? Why do you have your bag? Where are you going?" Delia asked panic creeping into her voice; she had just gotten her son back and didn't want him to leave the house.
"I can't sleep here tonight. I've got a few things to do and its best if I leave and you don't see me till tomorrow," Ash said this very calmly.
Delias was shocked, her baby had just come home, and she had been having the best day she's had in years. And now here was saying that he had to leave right when he gets back. She couldn't help the tears welling up in her eyes.
Ash noticed that immediately and rushed over to his moms side and wrapped his arms around her. "Don't cry mom, I've got errands to run and by the time I get back you both would have been asleep by the time I got in anyway. And I've got to leave early in the morning as well, for the hair cut."
"B-But where will you stay? What do you have to do?" She stammered, forcing the tears to remain where they were.
"I've got a small campsite outside of town." He said quietly.
Delia eyes opened in horror! "But last time you were out there you almost froze to death! Ash please don't go!" The tears broke through.
Ash held her tighter than before, "I know you don't like this, but I've got to do this before tomorrow, or else what I'm planning at the lab won't work," Delia held him tighter she wouldn't let him go.
Misty who had been watching this entire time was a little shocked that Ash said he was going to leave. As much as she didn't want him to go either, she had to admit she was curious at what Ash had planned. She decided to say something. "Ash do you need to leave this minute?"
Ash looked at her then at the clock. It read 9:30PM, "No, but I can only stay maybe another half hour. But then I need to really go,"
"Well why don't you spend that time with your mom and then get going?" Ash gave her a sincere smile.
"How about it mom?" He asked softly looking back at his mom who still held him tightly.
Delia slowly loosened the grip she had on her son and looked into his eyes. "You promise we'll see you tomorrow?"
"Of course you will, and when you do, boy are you going to be surprised."
"I'm not sure I like the sound of that," she half joked.
"So will you let me go?" He asked gently as she loosened her grip even more.
"I-I suppose I don't have a choice do I?" Ashs toothy smile came back and that instantly made Delia flash a small smile back.
Ash hugged her again and gave her a peck on the cheek. "Ill see you tomorrow alright?"
(Sigh)" I guess so,"
Ash smiled and looked to Pikachu, "Pikachu you take care of these two okay?" Pikachu hopped up into his arms and snuggled into his chest. Chuckling Ash took that as a yes.
He looked at Misty, "I'll see you tomorrow as well right?" He asked her softly.
"Of course Ash," that's all she could get out.
Ash got up from his moms arms and walked over and unlocked the door. Smiling he gave a wave, and said "See you three tomorrow, and when you first see me don't say anything. You'll know when to tho." And with that he opened the door and left into the night.
Misty, Delia, and Pikachu watched him go. The house seemed to go quiet as soon as he stepped out the door. They knew that they would see him tomorrow.
"He sure was calm, about all this," Misty said quietly.
"I know it was rather strange, but he's matured quite a lot hasn't he?" Delia spoke as she stared at the door hoping Ash would come back.
"He sure has" Misty replied softly just above a whisper.
The three drifted into silence unsure of what to do. "Maybe we should go to sleep? We'll see him sooner that way," Misty suggested, she was aware that now that Ash was gone she didn't know what to do.
"We'll…I don't know should we?" Delia asked she was still upset that Ash left, but she couldn't help but feel uncertain about what to do.
"Pika Pikapi chu pikachu chu pi!" Pikachu said as it made its way upstairs.
"I think Pikachu agrees with that!" Misty giggled.
"I guess so,"
Delia and Misty followed Pikachu upstairs and changed into their pajamas, saying goodnight they went to their separate rooms and began to slowly drift off into sleep.
-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-
"Misty, Misty wake of dear, we slept in late we got to get going!" Whispered Delia as she tried to wake up the sleeping red head.
"Five more minutes," Delia smiled but they were actually getting short on time.
Delia grabbed Misty by the shoulders and shook her awake. "Come on Misty we have to get to the lab like Ash told us remember," Misty sat straight up as Delia said that.
"What time is it?" Misty exclaimed as she got out of bed. "Just after 1!" So hurry and shower and let's get going!" Delia said as she left the room to go down stairs. Misty grabbed a pair of cloths and ran into the bathroom.
After a five minute shower, she got changed into her usual outfit and headed downstairs. "Hey Mrs. K any time for a quick breakfast?"
"Sure Misty just nothing to big, we got to get out of here before Brock arrives,"
"Right!" Misty headed to the kitchen and made herself a quick sandwich.
Eating quickly she ran upstairs and brushed her teeth, going to her room she slipped on her shoes and ran downstairs. Delia was waiting by the door with Pikachu in her arms. "Ready?"
"Yup lets go." Once they were outside, Delia taped a note on the door that read:
'Brock, Misty and I are at the lab. Meet us there-Delia
Once the note was stuck firmly on the door the trio left to the lab. After a short walk the three were at the entrance to the lab. Delia rang the doorbell, after a few moments the door opened. Standing in the door was Tracey.
`Hi there Mrs. Ketchum, hey there Misty what brings you two up here today?"
"Oh uh, Pikachu wanted to uh, come and see the other Pokemon, so we decided to tag along,"
"Okay great come on in," Delia, and Misty entered the spacious lab. They were in the waiting room. Tracey led them through the lab into the Pokemon Habitat, Pikachu popped out of Delias arms and onto the ground. Looking around it ran over to a group of Ashs Pokemon by the pond and started chatting with them. Misty hoped Pikachu wouldn't bring Ash up, mostly because it would cause excitement amongst the Pokemon which would be noticed immediately.
"Would you two like some coffee or a cup of tea?" Tracey asked the girls.
Thank you Tracey I'd love some," Delia said. "I'm okay Tracey, I don't have much of a an appetite right now." With that the two girls went back into the waiting room, while Tracey departed to fetch Delia her tea.
When he was out of ear shot Misty brought up what was on her mind. "Mrs. K how will Ash know when Brock gets here?" Making sure to keep her voice low. "I'm not sure Misty, but I don't know why but i'm nervous," Delia whispered
"I know how you feel Mrs. K, my hearts beating faster than usual right now!"
Before Delia could answer, Tracey came back in with a cup of tea for Delia. "Thanks Tracey, it smells really good!" She said giving him a smile.
"No proble-" He was cut off by the doorbell.
"Oh that must be Brock!" Delia said cheerfully!
Before they could get to the door Pikachu bounded into the room. "Brocks here Pikachu were going to go get him, come with us!" Misty said picking up the little Pokemon. As Misty said this Pikachus ears shot up.
The four went to the door, opening it there stood the spiky haired breeder. "Hey guys it's great to see you guys again!" Brock said cheerfully! After the group exchanged hellos they made their way back into the waiting room.
"So how have you guys been?" Brock asked.
"We've been fine dear, we came up to the lab so Pikachu could go see Ashs Pokemon," The room silenced at the mention of Ash. It felt strange for Misty and Delia, they knew Ash was fine and that he'd be there shortly.
Pikachu broke the silence. "Pi Pikachu" Pikachu very lightly tapped Misty with its tale and motioned towards the research room.
"Oh that's right! We still need to go say hi to the Professor; he'd be in the research room right Tracey?" Misty asked, as subtly as she could emphasized 'research room, so that no one but Delia would notice.
"Oh yes lets go say hi to the Professor," Delia said cheerfully going along with Misty, but couldn't help a glance at the front door.
As they went down the hallway, and into the research room, Pikachu hopped out of Mistys arms and bolted away. "Pikachu where…" She trailed off as Pikachu disappeared out of sight.
"Where's Pikachu going?" Brock asked as they made their way over to where Prof. Oak was working.
"No clue?" Misty said, but she had a feeling she did know.
"Hey Prof. Oak," Tracey called out.
Prof. Oak look over his shoulder, and saw the group of people walking towards him. Getting up from his desk he turned around to greet them. "Hello there everyone, Brock it's nice to see you again,"
"You too Professor," Brock replied. The group drifted into small talk for a couple minutes. But stopped when they heard a laugh come from the hallway.
Everyone's eyes turned to the empty doorway. After a moment, coming into view was Pikachu walking slowly through the door, followed shortly after by a bleached haired boy, with blue eyes. Beside him was a short orange dog, 'a Growlithe' Misty thought. Mistys and Delias eyes widened and mouth dropped open when they saw him.
He was wearing a white V Neck t-shirt, light blue jeans, clean white sneakers, no hat, and slung on his back there was a black backpack. His white-ish hair was slightly messy, the bangs were drawn down to one side, covering one of his blue eyes and leaving the other completely visible.
Smiling he greeted them. "Hello everyone," his voice was rather cheerful.
"Hello their young man, what can we do for you?" Prof. Oak asked slightly puzzled.
"I'm sorry for just coming in here. I was knocking on the door and this little Pikachu opened up. I asked him if Prof. Oak was here and he motioned for me to follow him," He was still smiling as he said this.
"Oh its fine, what can I help you with..." Prof. Oak trailed off not knowing the boys name.
"Call me Shay, Shay Flasoda," The corner of Delias mouth twitched upward as he said his last name.
"Well Shay it's nice to meet you, this is Tracey Sketchit, Misty Waterflower, Brock Slate, and Delia Ketchum, and I'm Prof. Oak," said motioning to the others in the room including himself.
"It's a pleasure meeting you all" Shay said giving them a nod in greeting.
"So what can I help you with?" Prof. Oak asked.
Shay walked up and pulled his Pokedex out of his back pocket. "It's been awhile since I've had my Pokedex updated, so I was hoping you would be able to help me with that?" Shay asked.
"No problem, just come over here and let me get the machine ready," Shay nodded and followed him up to a large monitor, his Growlithe at his side.
Misty and Delia watched this completely interested. Ash still hadn't told them who he was, so they were curious on how he was going to do it. The professor typed something into the machine, "Okay if you slip your pokedex into that slot over there we can get this started,"
"Sure thing,"
Shay walked over to where there was a slit on a control panel, and slid his Pokedex into it. The large screen behind them lit up with a white loading bar. Slowly the white bar began to fill with green as the Pokedexes information was processed.
After a minute or two the bar was completely green. Replacing the bar was a picture of Shay, and his name.
The room gasped at what they saw.
The monitor said aloud,
"This Pokedex belongs to 17 year old Ashton J. Ketchum"
All eyes turned to Ash.