The finale. I do not own Pokémon
Misty in Neverland
Chapter Eight
See Ya When I See Ya
"Commence battle!" Jessie screamed and uproar burst onto the scene once again. The ship tipping back and forth as the sun's ascent into the sky burned above the battling trainers.
Pikachu clambered back onto Ash in a flash, avoiding the swift jab of Jessie's sword. She had her eyes set on Ash and Pikachu and only them. Her lips were twisted with rage, her vein pulsing out of her temples and her eyes twitching with spite.
Ash shot into the air and Misty flew out of the line of Jessie's attacks. The Captain wanted a clear shot of the boy who never seemed to fail. She held the sword tightly in her sweaty hand and tried scathing anything and anyone that stood in her way with her hooked hand.
Ash watched the determination scorch in Jessie's eyes, flying to the opposite side, the stern, clearing he and Pikachu of any launched attacks from the Pokemon that battled on the deck and bow.
Misty wanted to follow Ash, worried that he would fall again or that Jessie had another plan to subdue him. She launched into the air only to be grabbed by her ankle. Looking down her leg, James held onto her ankle with both hands, biting his lip with Meowth pulling on James's torso.
"Not—so—fast," James said struggling to pull Misty down as she willed herself to go further upwards.
"Let—go!" Misty snarled, her foot going numb from the steel grasp. She proceeded to kick James's hands with her free foot. The struggle went on for another few seconds when Misty found herself dropping to the floor with her feet and bottom of her pajama pant soaked.
James and Meowth were sprayed with a powerful stream of water, sending them colliding with some of the pirates. Misty looked to see what attacked them and was pleased to find Max praising Tracey's Marill for its fine water gun attack.
"Thanks, Max," Misty said, getting onto her slippery feet. She could still see Ash gliding in the air on the opposite end of the ship, but Jessie was out of sight, likely still on the floor.
How can I help? Misty thought to herself, scanning the area around her. The pirates and her friends were still locked in fierce battles with neither side losing. Her eyes then landed back on James and Meowth, drenched and groaning, as they lay on the floor.
On James's waist rested a leather belt that housed what Misty thought she could use at that moment: a sword. With James and Meowth still motionless, sputtering water out of their mouths, Misty swiftly dove after them.
"What the—" James said, flinching instantly upon seeing the girl about to tackle him.
Misty stopped in front of him, bending slightly and pulling the sword out of its hold. James and Meowth flinched away, scared of what Misty was going to do.
The redhead stared at the blade, figuring this was the best weapon she could use since she was now Pokemon-less with Pikachu assisting Ash against Jessie. From the side of her eye, Misty noticed James and Meowth looking at her in trepidation. At first she was confused by the worry on their faces but realized it was likely the sword in her hands.
"Any other toys you have on?" she asked pointing the blade at James's face. It felt weird threatening a person with a sword that Misty instantly drew back a little upon seeing James's face twist in more fear than before.
The purple haired man shook his head quickly, his teeth chattering. Misty turned to face the cat. "You?" But the cat did the same as James, shaking its head, clutching onto his fellow comrade.
Misty eyed them suspiciously. They were not to be trusted but at the same time these two were not as fearsome as Jessie is, not even close. Even for Meowth being a Pokemon, the most it could do was scratch. It was too much like a human to be a threatening Pokemon.
She glared at them one final time, pointing the sword towards them. "Stay out of our way," she said with gritted teeth, sparing them. She got into the air; flying passed the ensuing battles and spotted something in the water. It was Feraligatr, clawing on the side of the boat, like it was trying to get on.
Misty then thought of an idea, which she knew could be risky. It would involve the Feraligatr, and she hoped against hope that she would be able to convince it to be on her side.
Ash circled Jessie on the stern while in the air. Pikachu stood on Ash's shoulder, glowering at the captain as its electric sacs sparked furiously.
The Captain, however, stood in one spot, her eyes following Ash. She made no attempt to swing her sword, but that did not mean she was surrendering.
The dagger remained in Ash's tight grip. His scowl bore into the Captain with intensity that Ash only saw red. It was the same with Jessie. Albeit succumbing to her fury just moments before when Ash recovered, Jessie was able to mask her anger in much more composed manner.
"Ready to end this, Captain?" Ash growled, feeling the sparks from Pikachu prick his face.
Jessie stared at him, not responding. Her face was surprisingly unreadable. Ash knew that this meant she was at her most volatile and had yet another plan.
"What'd you plan on doing this time?" he spat. "Launching another net?"
Again, no response. Ash's pace quickened as he continued to circle Jessie. She remained where she stood, moving only her eyes, not getting dizzy from Ash's movements.
"Could it be that you're out of ideas?" Ash challenged, a smug look embedded on his exhausted face. He was determined more than ever to face off against Jessie, whether it is in combat or a Pokemon battle. He dares not to lower himself for Jessie might carve at his leg or face if he got too close.
The Captain was dangerous when silent. She exuded the slyness on her face like that of a Seviper waiting to strike a defenseless Rattata.
To Ash's surprise, Jessie lowered her sword, her eyes continuing to follow his swift movements. What was she planning on doing? Jessie stuffed the sword back into its proper sash on her belt and reached for something else, not looking away from the boy circling her in the air.
Ash squinted at Jessie's hand, as it pulled out something small and red. The black haired boy knew what was coming next, as did Pikachu, having it became rigid on Ash's shoulder.
Jessie tapped the center of the small object and it grew into the palm of her hand. She clasped the Pokeball tightly, a small, impish grin appearing on her blank face.
"We'll settle this," she said, the Pokeball, opening in her grip, releasing a flurry of white light, which formed in midair into the shape of her Pumpkaboo.
The ghost Pokemon was small but only a fool would underestimate its size for being unable to turn out such clever moves. Like its trainer, this ghost-like pumpkin was a master of sneakiness.
Ash's nostrils flared, he turned to Pikachu who gave its partner an affirmative nod. "We'll finish this buddy," he breathed harshly, Pikachu clambered onto Ash's head, waiting for a command.
"How are you ever going to become the best trainer in the world when you always unleash Pikachu in every battle you face?" Jessie asked stoically.
Her dry tone was still able to burn Ash up inside.
"Pikachu's my friend," Ash began. "But it's not like you know a thing about a close bond with your Pokemon." He glared at the Pumpkaboo who hovered nearby, with a blank expression.
"Speaking of friends," Jessie drawled. "Where's the redhead?"
"It won't work this time, Captain," snarled Ash. He was not going to let her penetrate his strength and perseverance again with thoughts of Misty abandoning him.
"What won't work?" Jessie trailed, with mock curiosity. "Thought you cared enough about your girlfriend, but I guess what I said was and is still true—"
"Quit rambling!" shouted Ash. "Pikachu electro ball, go!"
Pikachu lunged itself towards the floating ghost Pokemon, electric currents morphing into a sphere on its tail, which it whipped at its opponent. "Pika!"
"Pumpka—" The pumpkin said and vanished just as Pikachu's attack was going to land. The electric mouse looked around it before it began to plummet downwards.
"Boo!" came a hiss from something above. Pikachu looked up and saw a shadow ball hurling towards it. Unable to fly itself, Pikachu crashed onto the stern floor with a small explosion.
As smoke clouded their view, Ash made out the silhouette of Pikachu balancing itself on its tail. "Good work!" he cheered and shot a glance over to his opponent.
Jessie's stance barely budged. There was not a flicker of worry on her face, which made Ash feel more nervous. He had a gut feeling that she was biding her time. Instinctively, Ash spun around to see if there was anything flying towards him, like a net or some other Pokemon.
There was nothing but the battle cries from the Pokemon on the other side of the ship. Jessie's eyes gleamed with delight, seeing Ash act paranoid.
"Scared are we?" Jessie asked, her brow cocked as her gaze bore into Ash.
Ash shot a glower at the Captain. "Yeah, right!" he spewed. "Pikachu thunder shock!"
Pikachu leapt in the air, aiming a bolt of electricity at the levitating pumpkin. But the ghost Pokemon disappeared again, having Pikachu's attack shoot at nothing. "Pikachu…" it growled.
"Listen carefully, buddy!" Ash instructed while he continued to scan the vicinity of the stern for any signs of an ambush. His glare swept around the stern, up the sails and the beams and back to the unusually placid Captain.
And from behind a sail, another shadow ball hurtled towards Pikachu, which the electric rodent luckily dodged upon hearing it just in time. Pumpkaboo launched one after another. Ash watched on in worry but was grateful that Pikachu's speed had not faltered.
Pikachu bounded all over the stern, leaping into the air, firing an electric attack after another. Each spark missed the ghost, much to Ash's worry, Pikachu's frustration and Jessie's pleasure.
Pumpkaboo showed no signs of exhaustion. In contrast, Pikachu's breathing was becoming heavy and although still swift at its movements, the mouse's speed was beginning to slow down.
Ash kept his eye firmly on Pumpkaboo, trying to figure out a strategy to best the ghost. Times like this, Ash was usually able to think of something out of the box that would benefit his Pokemon. But his mind was drawing a blank. The only thought that did cloud his mind was the possibility of Pikachu overexerting itself. The ghost Pokemon had the ability to teleport in a blink, rivaling the pace of Pikachu. And because it appeared that Pumpkaboo was not getting tired, Ash presumed that this battle would end soon if he was unable to think of something to help out Pikachu.
Then it dawned on him. Pumpkaboo had the advantage because it had the ability to levitate, whereas Pikachu could only rely on foot, jumping from one place to another.
Trust me, Pikachu, Ash silently said, hoping that his Pokemon would hear his thoughts. "Pikachu, stay where you are!" Ash shouted.
Pikachu stopped moving, its feet firmly planted on the wooden surface. It exchanged a quick look with its trainer, reading his face. Ash had an idea. It wasn't the best, according to Ash but it was something at the moment.
Jessie darted her eyes between Ash and Pikachu, trying to decipher what they're unspoken words meant. Then she turned her attention to her Pokemon, instructing, "Pumpkaboo, shadow sneak!"
The pumpkin approached Pikachu, a dark aura radiating from it. It looked as though its shadow was detaching itself from the ghost, moving towards Pikachu while the shadow's owner inched closer as well. It looked like a double attack was about to occur and once Pumpkaboo's shadow stopped beneath Pikachu's feet, Ash made a command.
"Volt tackle, hurry!" he shouted.
Pikachu hastily jumped high in the air, sparking with high voltage and threw itself towards Pumpkaboo as the shadow, rose from the floor, engulfing nothing.
The ghost Pokemon did not have a chance to teleport, as Pikachu tackled it directly, flurries of shockwaves consuming its small body. Jessie's eyes widened, trepidation creeping into her blood. She watched as her Pokemon became momentarily paralyzed, but soon bared her teeth as Ash shouted another command.
"Electro ball!"
It all happened in a flash, literally. Pikachu swung its tail, carrying another sphere of electricity, slamming Pumpkaboo to the floor of the stern, blinding Jessie and Ash briefly.
Jessie seized this opportunity by throwing another Pokeball onto the stern. And while the Pokemon emerged from its casement, Jessie fled her spot.
As the light finally dispersed, Pumpkaboo was still levitating but only an inch off the floor, twitching as the sparks continued to flurry all over it. Pikachu was in front of it, staring the ghost down as its own breathing grew haggard.
Ash's vision adjusted to the normal light, but saw a few spots here and there. However, what sent a crawl up his spine was the sight of another opponent, one that Ash and Pikachu were all too familiar with.
Wobbuffet stood where it was released, standing poise and stiff. As he glared at the blue blob, Ash realized that its master, Jessie was gone. Instinctively, Ash spun around, expecting a sneak attack from behind and then lowered himself a little, looking up. There was nothing and no one around him.
"Pika!"
Ash then diverted his attention back at the battle. Pikachu growled while the Pumpkaboo, while still stunned, managed to hover closer to Pikachu.
"Pikachu, hold on!" Ash cried out, glaring back at the blue blob that was the quiet and stoic Wobbuffet. What is she up to? His mind raced with anxiety.
Another thought entered Ash's mind. Were his friends still safe? He ascended slowly to get a good view of the opposite side of the ship and saw that his friends were still locked in battle with their Pokemon against the pirates.
"Pikapi!"
Ash returned his gaze at his tired Pokemon and dove after it as the Pumpkaboo launched a feeble shadow ball. Before Ash was able to shield Pikachu, however, the electric rodent sent a thunder shock attack to counter the weakened ghost.
The pumpkin's energy was far less than what Pikachu was carrying, therefore the electric attack should have worked but surprisingly quick for a massive thing it was, Wobbuffet leapt in front of its comrade and used mirror coat. The thunder shock bounced off the enemies and sprang towards Ash and Pikachu.
With the remaining seconds Ash had left before the attack landed, he swiped Pikachu in his quavering grasp and shot into the air, dodging the full blow of the counterattack, only his arm getting shocked.
Ash grunted in pain as he flew behind a sail's pillar. "You all right, Pikachu?" he asked, wincing through his pained grin.
"Cha…" Pikachu nodded, breathlessly.
Ash tried to ignore the numbing that coursed through his left arm while holding onto Pikachu. He peeked passed his shoulder from behind the pillar and saw that the Pumpkaboo was recovering from its paralysis. As for Wobbuffet, the blob returned to its stoic stance.
It was clear to Ash that it was acting as a shield for Pumpkaboo. Wobbuffet was not the kind of Pokemon that was the first to attack, instead it was more equipped with the ability to counter any moves with double the power.
"We're going to have to attack Wobbuffet when it's not looking," whispered Ash, still eyeing the Captain's Pokemon. "But we also have to worry about Pumpkaboo…hmm…"
While Ash tried to think of a plan to outwit Jessie's Pokemon, his left arm was succumbing to the overwhelming numbness. There was no telling how long it would remain paralyzed and since Ash was not a Pokemon, he did not have any special abilities in healing himself.
But Ash couldn't hide. If he remained where he was, he and Pikachu would get caught and likely get hurt even more. His mind flashed over to his friends who were valiantly fighting against the pirates. He had to consider that their Pokemon were gradually growing tired and that his friends could get hurt.
Then Misty entered his head. She had saved him and was not going to let her down, again. He imagined Misty's voice somewhere, yelling at him to hurry and think of something. Even though pressure would normally make things worse, whenever Misty encouraged Ash, he managed to succeed.
Letting a gulp slide down his throat, Ash's nostrils flared in response to the nagging determination he carried to settle the score.
Looking down at Pikachu who was watching its trainer, waiting for a command. "I know you're tired, buddy," he began sweetly. "But I'm going to need you to—ugh!" he exclaimed suddenly through gritted teeth.
"Pikapi, pikachu!" Pikachu tugged on Ash's shirt with concern.
"I'm okay," he breathed. His arm was falling limp as the pricking sensation continued. "I'm going—to distract them."
He looked passed the pillar again and saw that Pumpkaboo and Wobbuffet were still there much to his relief. However, the Captain was still nowhere in sight. He ignored her absence at the moment, though for he wanted to defeat Jessie's Pokemon first and pursue her later.
"I need you to attack them both when they—aren't l—looking," Ash went on. "Okay?"
Pikachu looked nervously at its trainer. It was not worried at all about its well-being but of Ash's. Hesitance was etched on the rodent's face but it wanted to trust Ash.
"I'm going to fly and get their attention. I want you to sneak up and use a thunderbolt attack. But—conserve your energy. Don't worry about me."
Pikachu's eyes glistened with worry but gave an affirmative 'Pika!' and they both peered down before they put their plan in action.
"Okay, let's do this—" Ash began to say, turning to face Pikachu once more. However, his eyes noticed something sharp swing itself at him. In the nick of time, Ash ducked out of sight from behind the pillar, his hat no longer on his head.
Once away from the sudden ambush, Ash discovered Jessie crouched on the beam of the same sail he was hiding behind; his hat impaled by the Captain's hooked hand.
Ash held Pikachu tight to his chest as he glowered at Jessie who no longer presented a calm demeanor, but a look of dementedness on her face. Her scowl alone made Ash gulp nervously. He might just have to abandon his plan.
"Good luck trying to attack my Pokemon now, boy," snarled the Captain, getting onto her feet. "This should have been your head." She looked at the green hat that clung to her hook. A look of sheer disappointment graced her face as she continued to glare at the headwear.
"I don't need luck!" Ash spat, not knowing what else to say. He felt his stomach tie in knots, feeling somewhat cornered.
"Then prove it!" growled Jessie, ripping the hat from her hooked hand and tossing it over her shoulder in contempt.
"Two Pokemon against one is cheating," Ash said through his clenched jaws.
"You ought to know by now, brat that I don't follow anyone's rules!" Jessie sneered. "How naïve are you going to remain? You're friends should know better than to rely on some stupid twerp who thinks that Team Rocket would ever play fair!"
Pikachu wriggled out of Ash's shaky grasp and hobbled onto its trainer's head. "Pikachu!" The mouse shot a thunderbolt towards Jessie in fury.
The Captain deflected the electric attack though using her hooked hand as a lighting rod. "Looks like Pikachu is as naïve is as you are!" Jessie hissed.
"Don't say anything about Pikachu!" Ash growled, one fist clenched while his left hand twitched. "Why don't we finish this already?"
"I decide when it's finished, boy," Jessie sneered once more, beckoning to herself. She removed her sword from its casement and took a bow.
Ash reached for his dagger on his belt, clenching the small blade tightly with his good hand as he hovered closer to the Captain. "Pikachu," Ash said. "Try to get out of here. Find Misty, she'll look after you."
"Pikachu…" Pikachu tried to argue with its trainer, not wanting to abandon Ash, especially since Ash was injured.
"Pikachu, please," Ash implored. "Don't worry about me."
"Don't feed it lies, twerp," Jessie said, baring her sword in front of her.
"Don't listen to her," Ash said resolutely. "I need you to find Misty. Both of you look after each other. Don't mind me."
"Pikapi," the rodent began.
"Trust me," Ash breathed, exhausted. "I need you to be safe, go!"
Begrudgingly, Pikachu leapt off its trainer's head as Ash swung his dagger viciously at Jessie who deflected each move with either her sword or hooked hand.
Pikachu landed on another beam and was going to jump to another one in hopes of finding Misty somewhere below but stopped. It looked down to see that Pumpkaboo had recovered from its paralysis and was ascending slowly up the pillar. Pikachu's eyes darted from the ghost to Ash. It wanted to obey its partner's wishes but couldn't let him fight alone, especially with an injured arm.
Despite the exhausting overwhelming it, Pikachu dove towards both Wobbuffet and Pumpkaboo. Both Pokemon were not paying attention to what was heading towards them This was Pikachu's chance; it released another thunder bolt attack, much stronger than the other one.
The attack jolted both Pumpkaboo and Wobbuffet who didn't have time to counter it.
"Pikachu, no," Ash grunted, looking down while blocking Jessie's sword from slicing his face in half.
Jessie was unrelenting, swinging her sword and hooked hand at every possible chance. She was not going to be generous at all. Ash struggled trying to remain balanced and shielding himself from the attacks.
Jessie stole a glance down to the stern. Pumpkaboo and Wobbuffet were paralyzed and had fainted. She also saw Pikachu, its breath heavy and its legs wobbly. Angry that her Pokemon were defeated, Jessie knew that Pikachu was running out steam fast. It would likely not have the strength left to climb up the pillar to defend Ash. It was now a battle between Ash and her. No Pokemon, no allies, just them.
With the taste of victory moments away, Jessie unleashed another flurry of jabs with her sword and hook. But to her dismay and frustration Ash was still able to defend himself. Even after all the swings, Jessie only managed tear one of Ash's sleeve, not even breaking skin.
"Give up," she said, closing in on her enemy with both her weapons.
"You've known me for a while, Captain. Giving up is not in my nature," Ash said, holding his dagger before him, deflecting a blow from Jessie.
Ash tried to push her away with his good arm, while the other arm was too numb to move. Jessie tried pushing her blade and hook down to Ash's face.
It's over for you, Jessie thought devilishly to herself. Using all the strength she had left, the Captain pressed her blade onwards, causing Ash's dagger to quiver beneath her sword. Almost…
The dagger slipped and Ash fell back, not wanting the Captain to scathe him. He landed roughly on his back on the beam and Jessie immediately kicked the dagger out of Ash's grasp, sending it plummeting towards the stern.
Ash tried to roll over to grab his doomed weapon, but his throat was abruptly pinned by Jessie's boot. She held her sword close to his nose as he gagged and tried lifting Jessie's foot off.
Jessie looked down at her fallen victim with a victorious glimmer in her smirk. Her breathing was haggard but the taste of triumph was too sweet for her to succumb to exhaustion.
"If only you gave up," she sighed, her face glistening with sweat in the sunlight. "It's a shame your girlfriend isn't here to help you." She pressed her foot with more force causing Ash to choke. "I told you I would finish it."
Ash tried to will his other arm to move but it still lay limp over the beam. His feet kicked in agony, his brain dying for breath.
Barely able to move his head, Ash resorted to thrashing his legs until he felt them hit Jessie's other foot.
Instantly, Jessie's boot released Ash's throat as her other foot was kicked off the beam and she fell. She did not plummet to the floor, however as she quickly took hold of the beam with her arms, allowing her sword to fall like the dagger did and her legs dangling.
Ash inhaled the air that he was dying for, his breathing becoming rampant. And once he didn't feel so lightheaded he dove towards Pikachu who had collapsed on the stern.
"P—pika—pikachu," he huffed, still out of breath. "Buddy, are you okay?"
Pikachu stirred as Ash's good hand caressed it. "Pikapi?"
"Pikachu!" Ash exclaimed happily, picking Pikachu up gently. "We'll get you some rest."
Although it was exhausted beyond endurance, Pikachu gave Ash a happy and grateful smile.
"I don't think so!"
Ash got to his feet with Pikachu in his arm, turning with baleful eyes at the source of the voice.
Jessie had reached the floor, using her hooked hand to slide down the pillar without harming herself. She swiped the sword off the floor and marched over to Ash and Pikachu threateningly.
"Pika…" Pikachu growled, sparks emanating from its sacs.
"Save your energy, Pikachu," Ash instructed. He backed away not wanting Pikachu to wear itself out anymore.
Jessie broke into a run, the sword in her hand looking menacingly as she screamed towards her targets.
Ash hugged Pikachu more firmly, waiting for the sword to pierce him but it never came. Instead he felt a spray of cold water and the heard the sound of a powerful gush.
Jessie had been attacked with a strong hydro pump and was sent flying backwards. Ash looked around to see where the water attack had come from and—
"Ash! Pikachu!"
Spinning around on the slippery surface, Ash saw Misty running towards him.
"Misty," he sighed with relief.
Misty was out of breath herself and a little soaked. She was happy to see that Ash was okay but her smile vanished once she saw the state that Pikachu was in.
"Oh no, what happened?" she asked, panic rising in her throat.
"Pikachu's fine, we both are," Ash replied breathlessly. "Hey, what was that?"
"What?" Misty asked, rubbing Pikahu's ears tenderly.
"What attacked—?" Ash stopped once he saw something massive stomp over. The creature towered over he and Misty with intimidating stature. Although it's large jaw and gargantuan claws were far more fearsome.
"How did Feraligatr get on the ship?" Ash asked.
Misty suddenly realized the presence of the water Pokemon, looking over her shoulder and then back at Ash releasing a few giggles. Ash looked at her stupefied.
"What's so funny?" he dared to ask.
Misty shook her head. "Nothing. I helped Feraligatr get up on the ship, though it wasn't easy…" Her eyes trailed over to the edge of the portside where a large net hung. "I can't blame it though. It's not a climber."
Ash's eyes widened, impressed that Misty was able get near such a ferocious looking Pokemon. But then again, she is an expert in water types. "Misty you're amazing," he said, still in awe.
Misty felt her face heat up and she turned away, grinning. "Thanks. But—we have to get off this ship!"
"Right!" Ash agreed.
"Uh…what in the name—" moaned a voice that caused Ash, Misty and Feraligatr to turn to with intense glares.
"How—huh?!" Jessie said, getting up before her eyes befell the frightening Feraligatr standing behind Misty and Ash.
The gator Pokemon released a bone-chilling growl that rang throughout the ship.
"What's the meaning of this?" Jessie snarled, but didn't approach them. She was glued to her spot in terror.
A smug look embedded on Ash's face, he was the first to speak up. "It's over, Captain."
Despite the presence of Feraligatr, Jessie did not show much signs of giving up. "No it's not! I'm not through with you yet!" She rose to her feet, the sword in her wet hand, limping forward.
The Feraligatr took one stomp before Misty and Ash.
"I wouldn't do anything, Jessie," Misty barked. "Like Ash said, it's over."
Jessie forced an impish smirk on her soaked face. "Of course you'd agree with your boyfriend."
Misty huffed through her nostrils. She was not going to let herself feel embarrassed at the moment. She stood before Feraligatr, her fists clenched. "Give it up, Jessie!"
"No!" the Captain boomed, rushing forward with the sword.
Feraligatr pushed passed Misty and Ash and unleashed a powerful aqua jet, which was hurtled towards the Captain. Jessie was hit once again with the water attack and crashed to the edge of the ship once more.
"There's no point in convincing her," Ash said quickly. He looked back down at Pikachu who was fighting off sleep, then turned to Misty with concerned eyes. "We have to get out of here. Let's round our up our friends."
Misty agreed. She and Ash leapt into the air, gliding to the deck where their friends continued to battle. Sadly some of their Pokemon along with the pirates' had fainted.
Tracey's Scyther was spread eagled by the Captain's cabin and the Pokemon watcher was holding onto Jame's collar, angrily.
"What'd you do to my Scyther?!" Tracey demanded, shaking James violently.
By James's feet laid what looked like an empty shell that smoked. Among the other fallen Pokemon were two Raticate, a Mightyena and sadly Gary's Umbreon.
"Ash!" Max cried out, noticing his friend's presence. "It's Ash and Misty and Pikachu!"
"The twerp?" Meowth croaked as it was entwined in Chespin's vine whip.
"W—where's Jessie?" James asked, worriedly.
Upon the question of where their captain was, the pirates stopped commanding their remaining Pokemon, halting the battles.
The pirates looked around the deck. Jessie was nowhere near them, leaving them all dumbfounded as to what they were supposed to do now.
"What should we do?" one pirate asked, clueless.
There was a long, cutting silence as the crew waited for someone to give them a command. Ash and Misty landed before their friends.
"You guys are okay," Cilan sighed with relief.
"How are you guys?" Misty asked quickly.
"We've been better," replied Brock. "But we're glad your both okay. And Pikachu…?"
"Pikachu's weak," Ash said.
"Where's Jessie?" asked Clemont.
"Don't worry about her right now," Misty said. "Recall your Pokemon, we're leaving this ship."
"How?" asked Gary, after he recalled his Umbreon back into its Pokeball. The others did the same, with the exception of Drayden.
"Flygon will take us back to the island," Drayden said, looking at his beloved dragon.
"Are you sure it can carry all of us?" Tracey asked, releasing James.
"Flygon's strong enough!" Iris chirped.
"They're right, though," Drayden said suddenly, looking at Ash's friends. "I don't want to overexert it…"
Misty stepped forward, gesturing to herself. "I can carry either Max or Bonnie on my back."
"Yeah and I can carry one of you guys too," Ash said, trying to hide the fact that one arm was still numb. "I need someone to look after Pikachu, though."
Gary stepped forward with his arms out. "I will."
"Thanks, Gary," Ash said, handing Pikachu off to the spiky-haired boy delicately.
"Think that'll work, Drayden?" Misty asked, hope etched on her lips.
The white bearded man thought for a moment before turning to his trusty dragon for a response. Flygon nodded. "Alright then!" Drayden said.
"Hold it!" James said. "No one's going anywhere until we find Jessie—"
"AAAHHHH!" came an approaching screech, following by rumbling.
"Was that…" Meowth asked nervously.
"Jessie?" James finished.
The Captain emerged, running towards her crew in fear. "James! Meowth! Do something!"
Feraligatr stomped over to where everyone was standing, causing uproar among the pirates. They all began to scramble in frenzy.
"Whoa, Feraliagtr," Max said in disbelief.
"C'mon!" Misty called out to her friends. Drayden was the first to hop onto Flygon, followed by Gary with Pikachu then Iris, Cilan, Clemont and finally Brock.
Misty crouched down with her back turned to Bonnie. "Hop on and don't let go, okay?" she told the young blonde sweetly.
Bonnie wrapped her arms around Misty's neck gently and Misty lifted her small body onto her back. Ash let Max climb on him as well, forcing his left arm to hold onto Max's leg.
"Everyone ready?" Ash asked.
"Ready!" everyone replied.
Drayden then instructed Flygon to take flight, being the first to leave the ship. The watercraft quaked as the pirates all huddled near Team Rocket. Feraligatr launched attack after attack, destroying the sails, having them come crashing down.
Ash and Misty both launched into the air, holding onto Max and Bonnie respectively. But as they soared after Flygon, Misty paused, looking down at Feraligatr.
"Feraligatr!" she called out.
Ash's ears picked up on Misty's yell and stopped too looking down at the water Pokemon wrecking havoc aboard the ship.
The water Pokemon paused just as it was about to launch another devastating attack. It looked up at Misty who was gazing at it with concern. The Pokemon's eyes glistened with reassurance, raising a heavy claw; giving Misty what appeared to be thumbs up with its fearsome claw.
Feeling a rush of gratitude for the gator, Misty called out once more before taking off for good. "Thank you!"
Ash's face bore a smile, looking on for one last moment before Misty glided towards him, beckoning him to move on.
Misty and Ash flew away, exchanging looks of triumph and relief as the sound of Feraligatr released one last growl before unleashing a hyper beam. The echoes of Team Rocket and the pirates being the last sounds that graced Misty's ears.
The flight back was far more exhausting than when Misty and Ash flew out to the ocean, trying to find the pirate ship. It was different this time around for Misty was carrying a small girl on her back. She assumed that it would not be as strenuous since they were flying but was surprised to her backache at its hunched position.
She remained patient, though for she wanted to reach the island with Bonnie and the others safely. And Bonnie was lightweight but the strain of holding onto her depleted Misty's remaining strength.
The same could be said for Ash, whose left arm remained numb. He instructed Max to hold onto to him tightly for the black haired trainer only had one good arm to work with.
It turns out the pirate ship had sailed a considerable amount into the ocean, making the trip back to the mainland much longer. Thankfully, though after what felt like about an hour, the island came into view and the long blanket of water was reaching its end.
Following Flygon, everyone soared passed the shore and above the jungle. Misty looked down as the campsite vanished from sight. She had a feeling she knew where they were headed.
Drayden instructed his dragon to start its descent into the Dragon Village. Misty and Ash did the same, aiming for the village center where a few villagers were already awake for the morning.
"Iris and Drayden have returned!" the old woman that Misty remembered from their encounter back at the campsite, croaked happily.
The other villagers around looked on, greeting them all with a cheer.
Once Misty's feet graced the ground, Bonnie climbed off allowing Misty to arch her back, relieving the stiffness that had accumulated. "We made it, Bonnie," she said to the young blonde who chirped with agreement, then ran over to her brother who awkwardly fell off Flygon.
Misty then turned to Ash who already dropped Max off gently, then rushed over to Gary who still held Pikachu in his arms. The redhead followed after him.
"How is it?" Misty asked while Brock came over to examine the rodent.
"Pikachupi," Pikachu sighed as it saw Misty looming nearby with a smile.
"Pikachu," Misty said, happy to see that the mouse was still conscious.
"You'll be alright, buddy," Ash said, rubbing Pikacu's head affectionately, to which the mouse accepted.
"It's just exhausted," concluded Brock. "Some rest and some food should help it feel better."
And with the mention of food came a collective rumbling from Ash's friends.
"Maybe some food would do us some good too," joked Max.
The laughter that erupted was short lived once a mighty orange, yet gentle looking dragon approached them, landing on the ground with grace.
Dragonite helped someone off its back and to everyone's relief, Lance climbed off, feeling much better than before. Dragonite made it back to the village just in time to heal Lance of the poison.
The dragon trainer's cape was missing and held one arm to his ribs, which were bandaged up.
"Lance I'm glad you're okay!" Ash exclaimed.
The red-haired man gave Ash a weak smile, before focusing his gaze at Ash's limp left arm. "Thanks to Dragonite here and to all of you of course. Ash, what's wrong with your arm?"
"Hm?" Ash said and then was reminded by the numbness that made him feel lopsided. "Oh, I think it's paralyzed."
Lance gave him a nod without pressing on how exactly Ash's arm became stunned. "Come," he gestured to everyone. "We have plenty of medicine and potions for the Pokemon and we have something for your arm, Ash."
"That's a relief," Cilan sighed, motioning over to where Lance directed everyone.
"Breakfast should be ready too, if anyone's hungry!" Iris said, her eyes glistening with hunger and everyone's mouths watering.
Lance led the way with Dragonite to a large hut. Gary had passed Pikachu over to Ash's good arm and they both followed the dragon trainer. The others followed them with Iris, Drayden, Tracey, Max and Misty behind everyone else.
"Hey is that—" Max began spotting something flapping its way towards them.
The creature that was approaching was small and frail looking. As it flapped its small wings, it looked rather pathetic.
"How did Archen make it off the ship?" Misty asked, cocking a brow as the small bird stopped in front of her and Iris. She and the dragon princess crouched down as it hopped on its feet.
"Archen!" it crowed.
"It must have flew over here," Tracey studied, wishing he had his sketchbook with him.
"Hmmph, what's it doing following us?" Iris asked, suspiciously.
There was something about the Archen that did not seem threatening. It was a member of the pirate crew but it never really fought. It's only use for the crew seemed to be that it worked as an alarm to alert everyone of intruders.
"What's it expecting from us?" Iris said. "Does it want us to take care of it or something?"
"Doesn't it belong to Team Rocket or one of the pirates?" Misty asked. The bird looked harmless and although it worked for Team Rocket, Misty found it hard to believe that it's intentions was bad.
"I don't think so," Drayden gruffed, now among the spectators, kneeling down to stare at it.
"Hey Archen, do you have a trainer?" asked Tracey.
Archen turned to the Pokemon watcher with a blank stare, tilting its head to the side.
Iris then stood up, followed by everyone else. "It doesn't even know…"
"What's going to happen to it then?" asked Max, his arms crossed.
"It'll probably just live freely on the island," Drayden deduced, stroking his beard.
Iris shook her head. "No." She pulled out a Pokeball from her pocket and dropped it onto top of the bird's head. Archen was collected into the Pokeball causing it to twitch a little before it paused, confirming that Iris successfully caught it.
"Why did you catch it?" Max asked incredulously.
The others were just as dumbfounded that Iris caught the pesky bird. She didn't seem to be fond of it at all and being a dragon trainer, it seemed odd for her to catch any other type of Pokemon.
Iris bent down and picked up the ball before releasing Archen. "Now it has a proper home." She smiled at the bird Pokemon who flapped its wings happily.
"Archen! Archen!"
"That was nice of you, Iris," Misty said, a grin stretching across her face as she watched how excited the Archen was.
"It's not so bad after all," the dragon princess explained. "I'll train it along my dragons. Maybe it'll evolve into an Archeops too! How does that sound Archen?"
The bird just flapped its wings jubilantly, flying over to Iris's shoulder and nuzzled her cheek sweetly.
After resting and healing up, breakfast was served within the large hut that Lance led everyone to earlier. All Pokemon were healed to perfection. Flygon had recharged its energy after the long battle and flight back to the village. Scyther and Umbreon were conscious again and the other Pokemon got to take it easy, chowing on some delicious Pokefood.
And Pikachu was back to its normal and energetic self. As for Ash, his arm was no longer stunned and he regained the feeling in his limb again.
While everyone continued to have seconds and thirds of breakfast and take part in morning chatter, Misty stood outside the hut, which was right by the village center. She gawked at the erected statue of a Dragonite, being the centerpiece to the entire village.
"Some night, huh?"
Misty turned to see that Ash had followed her with Pikachu on his shoulder. The gym leader beamed at the two, glad to have them in her presence.
"How're you both feeling?" she asked.
"Pikachu!" Pikachu cried out happily, leaping into Misty's arms for hug.
Misty giggled, holding Pikachu close but gentle. "Glad to hear it, Pikachu," she said.
Her gaze then swept over to the boy in front of her. Ash watched both his friends for a moment, glad to have them both safe and unharmed.
"It's been quite the adventure," Misty said suddenly.
Ash nodded, motioning over to the statue. "Say Misty, I'm sorry," he said sincerely.
Misty's eyes softened knowing what he was alluding to. She felt a little awkward that he brought it up again, but she appreciated the apology nonetheless.
"Thanks, Ash," she whispered, feeling her ears warm up. "I'm sorry too—"
"Don't be," interrupted Ash. "I was being immature. And Misty?"
"Hm?" Misty waited a moment, hoping the increasing shades of pink would vanish before facing him.
"Thanks for saving me back there," Ash said lowly. Misty looked baffled, as Ash's face grew crimson. His left arm, no longer numb, rubbed the back of his head awkwardly.
"Don't mention it," Misty said. Anytime…she told herself silently.
A minute passed with Ash and Misty gazing at each other, content smiles etched on their faces. Pikachu hopped out of Misty's grasp as he saw that Archen and Dedenne had emerged from the hut. The Pokemon began to play together having Ash and Misty something other than each other to stare at.
There was still something on Misty's mind, however. She turned back to her best friend, looking puzzled. "What do you think happened to Feraligatr?"
Ash faced the redhead with a reassuring smile. "I'm sure it's okay. It's a strong thing."
"Why does it have it out for Team Rocket? Especially Jessie?"
"When it was a Totodile, Team Rocket captured its siblings," Ash explained with a saddened sigh. "No one really knows what happened to it, but when Feraligatr was young it was the only one that managed to escape. Jessie was the one who initiated the capture."
"How do you know all that?"
"The mermaids told me. Feraligatr lives near their lagoon and they said they saw Team Rocket sail away with Totodile."
"That's awful…" Misty said, feeling sympathy for the Feraligatr. "I just hope your right about it, being okay."
"Trust me, it'll be fine."
"And what about Team Rocket?" Misty suddenly asked as her eyes followed the playful Archen.
Ash simply shrugged, no sense of distress on his expression. "Who knows? They'll probably be back."
"Doesn't that worry you?" Misty asked, not comprehending Ash's calm demeanor.
"It's Team Rocket," Ash sighed, plainly. "You know them, not willing to give up."
"So, they're just going to try again?"
"Misty," Ash began, placing a hand on her shoulder. "Don't worry about them."
"It's not them I'm worried about," murmured Misty.
"Or me…" Ash said. "Maybe they'll be back, maybe not. But there's no point in worrying about them. We need to carry on and live our life. They don't control us, Mist."
Misty stared at her friend in amazement. When did he get so philosophical? Either way, Ash was right. Team Rocket were persistent but worrying about what they were up to was pointless. Her friends were safe and unharmed. The island continued to function peacefully.
The redhead sighed through her nostrils, looking at the statue then back to Ash. She didn't want her stay in Neverland to end. She wanted to continue having adventures alongside her friends, alongside Ash. But she had a job to fulfill. She had to return.
"Ash," she said, a bittersweet taste lodged on her tongue. "I have to go back."
Ash huffed, realizing that the time had come already. He didn't want to hold her back, especially since she had an important job to do. But that didn't mean he wasn't upset about the inevitable goodbye.
"Yeah," he said. "I'll take you back home."
Misty returned to the hut, bidding everyone farewell and hopes of seeing each other again. Everyone saw her, Ash and Pikachu off as they launched into the air, disappearing into the clouds.
Ash and Misty flew higher and higher, reaching a large mass of clouds. Shutting her eyes as they soared through, she then opened them to be greeted by the twinkling sky and the view of Cerulean City beneath them.
It was like time barely passed while she was in Neverland. Two days on the island was practically two minutes in Cerulean City. The air was nipping at Misty's bare feet and exposed arms, sending a crawl up her spine.
The Dewgong replica on top of Cerulean Gym was growing closer now, which meant that her home nearby was coming close as well. The sounds of the bustling city greeted Misty's ears and she could not believe how much she missed the loud noise that rung throughout Cerulean.
They passed the Gym and went to the open window on the second floor of the house nearby. Misty had come home at last.
The window was left opened, thankfully and Misty climbed in, landing on the bedroom floor. She wondered if she would ever be able to fly again after tonight.
Ash hovered by the window frame with Pikachu nestled on his shoulder.
Misty looked around her room, seeing it untouched and just as she left it; the sheets on her bed askew from when she climbed out in haste, the lamp still on and the curtains parted.
As much fun she had in Neverland, Misty was happy to be back home. Lying under the stars on the jungle floor or gliding under the moonlight could compare to the familiar comfort that her home did.
Turning on her heel, she looked at Ash, her eyes shaking not wanting to say goodbye.
"Sorry about your hat," she said, putting off the bittersweet farewell.
Ash let out a chuckle, rubbing the top of his black hair. "I'll live."
A pregnant pause consumed the bedroom. It was getting much harder to separate the longer they waited. Pikachu hopped off Ash's shoulder and nuzzled Misty's ankle.
"Pikachupi," it said sweetly.
"I'll miss you too, Pikachu," Misty said, feeling tears prick her eyes. She picked the rodent up in her arms, squeezing it with all the affection she could muster before letting it go, dropping to the floor.
"I guess I better get some sleep," said Misty finally.
"Yeah," Ash agreed. "I guess I should be getting back then."
Misty nodded giving Ash one last fleeting look. "Thanks for the adventure, Ash."
Ash landed on his feet, slowly inching closer to Misty. He wrapped his arms around her in a warm embrace, breathing into her shoulder. "Thanks for everything, Mist. I'll miss you."
Misty's fingers dug into Ash's shirt as the tears began to fall out of her green eyes. "I'll miss you, too."
Breaking away, Misty quickly wiped her eyes dry and gave Ash and Pikachu a smile. Pikachu had returned to Ash's shoulder and they made their way to the windowsill.
"See ya when I see ya," Ash said.
"Be safe, please?" Misty asked with chuckle.
"I'm always careful, Misty," Ash groaned playfully.
Misty rolled her eyes, turning her attention to Pikachu. "You'll look after him, right?"
"Pikapika!"
Misty made her way towards the window to properly see Ash and Pikachu off. Ash had already stepped out, floating nearby. The redhead leaned passed the windowsill, giving Ash one last fleeting look. She'd sorely miss him but knew that there would always be a chance to reunite.
"Ready, Pikachu?" Ash said tilting his head to face Pikachu on his shoulder. The rodent nodded, as Ash turned to face Misty for one final time.
In the moonlight it looked as though Ash's face turned a pale pink, stunning Misty as she waited for him to fly off. But before Ash left, he floated a little closer towards Misty and gave her a swift peck on the cheek. Misty then felt her face warm up while she tried her best to look nonchalant. She relished the gesture inwardly, gazing as Ash gave her one final smile before he shot straight into the starry sky.
"Goodbye," she whispered. The tears began to run down her face again, but this time Misty allowed them to. Her mind reflected on all that she just experienced and wished to relive. But now that she was back home, it was time to get back to normal.
Misty shut her window and pulled her curtains over the glass, making her way over to her bed. Settling herself onto the comfy mattress, Misty pulled the sheets over her body, switching off her lamp.
She laid in the darkness, staring up to the ceiling, expecting sleep to come but it seemed to evade her. She had wanted nothing more than to sleep after helping her sisters with their play but after her adventures on Neverland, sleep was the last thing she cared about.
Misty cradled her head with her hands, thinking back on all that went through in Neverland, hoping that one day she would return. She hoped that one day her friend would return and whisk her away on another journey of excitement.
Knock. Knock. Knock.
"Misty?"
Knock. Knock. Knock.
"Hello? Misty?"
Misty did not know when she fell asleep but it was clear that it was now morning when she awoke to the rapture on her bedroom door. She rubbed her eyes blearily, squinting as the sun beamed through her diaphanous drapes.
"Are you awake yet?" came the muffled voice of Daisy from beyond the door.
"Yeah, come in," Misty yawned, stretching her limbs out.
The door opened with a creak and in came Daisy, Violet and Lily. All three sisters gathered towards Misty.
"Geez, Misty, I'm surprised you're still in bed," Lily noted.
"What time is it?" Misty croaked, trying to find a clock.
"It's only five past ten," Daisy replied simply.
"But you're normally up at the crack of dawn," said Violet.
"So what's up?" Misty asked, rising into a seated position, her green eyes coming into focus.
Violet and Lily turned to the eldest, Daisy for her to explain.
"We wanted to thank you for helping us out," Daisy started. "So we thought maybe you'd like to take day trip to Seafoam Islands."
Misty looked at Daisy at first confused, still in a state of drowsiness. But once she wrapped her head around the invitation, Misty perked up, excited.
"That sounds fun! I'd love to!"
"Perfect, get dressed, meet us at the lobby of the gym, okay?" Daisy instructed and she and Violet and Lily left Misty's room.
As Misty got up to get ready, her mind suddenly flashed to memories of Ash, Pikachu, fairies, pirates and mermaids.
"What that all a dream?" she asked herself. The memories then became clear to her and she concluded that there was no way that her excursion in Neverland was something that she dreamt up.
After getting dressed and ready, she walked over to the Gym nearby, entering the lobby.
"Ready!" she said.
"Great!" Lily chimed.
"The mail came," Violet said dully, handing most of it to Misty as she and her other sisters marched over to the exit.
"Look they featured us in this issue of Indigo League Weekly," Lily exclaimed, holding onto the magazine that arrived with the mail.
"They featured the gym in this issue, you mean," Daisy noted. "What's it say?"
As Misty's older sisters flipped through the magazine, she shuffled through the mail that she was given. Most of them were bills for the Gym and a few others offering subscriptions to certain brands of Pokefood. And the last one was much different.
It was a letter and it was addressed to Misty. The redhead dropped the remaining mail at the front desk and examined the letter in her hand. It was sent from Kalos.
Tearing the envelope gently, Misty pulled out the letter and read it. Her eyes widened in disbelief as they scanned each word.
Dear Misty,
I know it's been forever since I wrote you a letter or called—or visited, but—I've been busy…
Well, sort of. As you probably know I've been in Kalos, joining the Kalos League and challenging gym after gym. I met a few friends along the way: Clemont and his sister Bonnie and a girl named Serena who I met when I was much younger. Small world, huh?
So far I earned two badges! I got the Bug Badge from Santalune City and the Cliff Badge from Cyllage City. Oh and let me tell you about the town we passed through before we made it to Cyllage.
It's called Ambrette Town and it's on a beach! The best part is, is that the town has a cool aquarium, the Ambrette Aquarium! Have you heard of it?
We got to take a tour of it and it's so pretty in there. It made me think of you! I think you'd really like it Misty. It reminded me of the Cerulean Gym but this aquarium had so many different kinds of Pokemon I have never seen before as well as some that I am familiar with like Goldeen.
I'm currently in Shalour City. I met the Gym Leader already and she has a really tough Lucario that get this, Mega Evolves! I'm learning so many new things on this journey. I learned about another type of Pokemon, fairy type!
I hope everything is going swell back at Cerulean for you Misty! I'll try to give you a call if I get the chance. If not, I'll try to write another letter.
Hope you don't overexert yourself at the Gym. You need a break once in a while. Anyways, I'll see ya when I see ya!
P.S. Pikachu says hi!
Ash
Misty read the letter over again, somewhat jealous reading about all his adventures in Kalos. But she was happy for him and felt her heart flutter when Ash wrote that the Ambrette Aquarium reminded him of her.
It had been ages since Misty received a letter from Ash or heard from him. At least that's what she thought, until her eyes landed on the final sentence, 'see ya when I see ya!'
Ash said the same thing last night after he dropped her off to her bedroom. Misty was stupefied and wasn't sure what she experienced last night. Was it a dream or did it actually happen?
In the letter Ash mentioned his friends that Misty supposedly met. And if Ash is still in Kalos then how was he in Neverland?
"Misty, let's go!" Lily called.
"Can't be late for the ferry!" Daisy said, leading the way out of the gym.
Misty nodded, folding the letter back up and stuffing it into her bag. As she ran after her sisters, Misty's mind buzzed with everything that was on her mind.
Deep down, Misty believed that her adventure in Neverland indeed happened. And even though she could not explain how Ash was back in Kalos, she was glad to know that no matter where he was, her best friend still thought of her.
THE END.
A/N: Well that's it! I am happy to conclude this story and would like to say how much I enjoyed writing this fic! This at the moment is my first and only multi chapter fic.
I'd like to thank everyone who read AND reviewed my story. Your feedback has meant a lot and helped motivate me when it came to writing each chapter.
Some last minute clarifications:
Ash- Peter Pan
Misty- Wendy and/or Jane (I find her to be more on the Jane side, but she can relate to both)
Pikachu- Tinker Bell (I changed up this role quite a bit. I'm truly not a huge fan of Tinker Bell in general so I wanted Pikachu to portray a much nicer interpretation on the character)
Jessie- Captain Hook
James and Meowth- Smee
Gary, Brock, Tracey, Max, Cilan and Clemont- The Lost Boys
Bonnie- Lost Girl and Michael and John (a fusion of all three)
Feraligatr- The alligator/crocodile
May, Dawn and Serena- The mermaids
Iris- Tiger Lily
Drayden, Lance and Dragon Villagers- The Native Americans
Misty's sisters are themselves and Archen was added because I thought it fit the parrot aboard a pirate ship role. Pirates are just regular pirates. The Fairy Pokemon in the Fairy Hollow are the fairies in Peter Pan.
And that's all! I hope everyone enjoyed this final chapter and the entire story as a whole. Please leave your final thoughts; I am eager to read them!
Once again, thank you for reading!