It's time for another Chapter! I'm pretty positive everyone will like this one :)
I figured we could all use a break from the death, destruction, and overall dark tone of the story right now. This whole chapter came from something that was originally supposed to be a small segment to start the next Chp. with Ash and Misty, buutttt I kinda took it and ran with it :p
So think of it as a bonus chapter! Don't worry, it will still have something to do with the overall plot, it won't be some random thing that has no meaning. Granted it's much more fleshed out than it needed to be, but like I said, bonus chapter!
Anyways! Read on, and enjoy this little break from all the chaos!
13 years ago
"CHUUUUUUUU"!
"AAAAGGGHHHH"!
The electrical current surged through Ash's body, spasming his muscles, and forcing him to topple out of bed. For the past ten minutes, Pikachu had been trying unsuccessfully to wake up his trainer. Since Ash had made it clear last night that he needed to be woken up bright and early.
"Pikachu" Ash bellowed as he leaned up against his bed, swiping at the mouse sitting on the mattress, "that wasn't funny"!
The yellow rodent laughed as he jumped out of Ash's reach.
"Don't make me have Brock us Onix's Rock Smash on you"!
"Piiiikaaaa-chuuuu"!
Pikachu blew a rasberry as he said the last part of his name, making Ash steam from the ears.
"Why you-"!
There was a quick knock at his door, followed by May's voice, "Ash?! You ok? I heard shouting"!
Ash growled low enough for Pikachu to hear, and then hollered back, "I'm fine May, had a bit of an electric start".
"Can I come in"?
Ash quickly checked to see if he had fallen asleep in his underwear, and seeing his pajama bottoms on, he told her she could. May opened the door, quickly sliding inside the room and rushing over to his bed. She sat down beside Ash as he climbed back up onto the mattress.
"We won't have Brock for the plan" May informed him a little fearfully.
"What" Ash nearly shouted, "why"?!
"Um, he spotted a girl, and was gone before we could grab him" May looked down in shame, then added, "blame Max! He pointed her out to him"!
Ash groaned and slapped his hand to his forehead, "he had all our money! What are we going to do now"?
"Well" May began, "Max had the idea to call Dad and ask for some. He's doing that down in the lobby now. Hopefully he'll wire it over".
"May that's excellent" Ash stated, jumping to his feet, "we can still pull this off"!
"That's IF Dad decides to help us" May pointed out, but Ash wasn't listening.
"Okay, I'm going to shower, then head over to the Gym" Ash spouted rapidly, "I'll keep her distracted all day while you guys get everything ready. Simple"!
"What's your plan exactly" May's question stopped him in his tracks halfway to his bathroom.
"My plan" he asked curiously.
"Yes your plan" May repeated, "don't you think Misty will find it weird that only YOU show up on her birthday? Don't you think she'll put two and two together? She's pretty smart you know".
"Oh...".
"Pika Pikachu" the rodent shook his head with a sigh.
"Eh, I'll figure it out" Ash suddenly exclaimed and bolted into the bathroom, slamming the door behind him.
May sighed and looked at Pikachu, "help him out today. Otherwise Misty will know we have a surprise party planned".
"Pikachu"!
The rodent nodded determinedly, closing his little fist to help make his point.
"What would Ash do without you" May giggled, and stood up to shout at Ash, "I'll be downstairs in the lobby with Max when you're done"!
"Got it" his muffled voice came back as the shower turned on.
"Pleeeeeeeease Dad" Max pleaded, placing his palms together and looking down, "this is really important"!
"I suppose it is" Norman chuckled through the video phone, "if it's got you worked up like this. Alright, fetch Nurse Joy and I'll send you enough to buy what you need".
"Thank you thank you thank you" the words flew out of Max's mouth, and he jumped down from the stool.
He ran across the Cerulean Pokemon Center lobby, skidding to a stop in front of Nurse Joy's desk.
"Can I help you" she smiled down at him, and he said in one breath, "I need you to come talk to my Dad so he can wire me some money for my friends birthday today"!
Nurse Joy giggled, and told him to lead the way. Max whooped with happiness and ran back across the lobby to the video phones. Sitting down at the monitor, Joy began to exchange information with Norman.
May entered the lobby, halting in the door behind the counter to look for Max. She spotted him, hopping up and down beside the video phone Nurse Joy currently occupied. Upon approaching them, she spotted her father's face, and smiled wide. Max must have convinced him to help them out!
"Alrighty, the money is on its way" Joy said with a smile to Max, and he cheered.
"How's my daughter doing" Norman asked, seeing May behind the Nurse.
"Doing good Dad" May told him, "almost done collecting my Ribbons for the Grand Festival"!
"That's wonderful May" Norman exclaimed, "keep it up! Your mother and I are proud of you".
"Thanks Dad"!
The video phone beeped at them, and a piece of paper printed out near the bottom. Nurse Joy pulled it out, and turned to the two Maples, "I'll cash this for you at the desk ok"?
"Ok" May and Max said together, then May added to her father, "we need to go! Call you soon"!
"Alright, good luck with today, and the rest of your contests" Norman nodded happily, and then disconnected the call.
Behind the front desk, Ash burst through the door, his hair still wet from his shower, and Pikachu on his shoulder. He was adjusting his hoodie while Pikachu clutched onto his hat.
"Ash we got the money" May told him as they re approached the desk.
"Awesome" Ash burst happily, "I'm going to go find Misty! See you guys tonight"!
As he began to run across the lobby, May shouted after him, "7 O clock! Don't forget"!
Ash didn't acknowledge he had heard her as he ran out the door and into the beautiful morning weather. Not a cloud in the sky, and the temperature was at perfection.
"This is going to be a good day Pikachu" he said aloud, taking a moment to stretch as a breeze ruffled his damp hair.
"Pika Pikachu" he agreed, sliding Ash's cap onto his head.
"To the Gym then" Ash told them unnecessarily, and began his running once again.
"You're like, going out right now" Daisy asked Misty incredulously.
"Yes Daisy, I am" Misty said for the third time, "why is that so crazy? We need some things for the Gym".
The eldest Sensational Sister tapped her foot, opening her mouth to protest, but stopping before a sound could be formed. Misty watched her struggle, raising a brow at her sister's odd behavior for that morning.
From the moment Misty had woken up, Daisy had been right there, front and center. That part wasn't unusual, her sister's always woke her up early on her birthday if they could. Squealing at the top of their lungs "HAPPY BIRTHDAY MISTY"! No, what was unusual was that normally after that, they would vanish for the day, leaving her to her own devices. Today Daisy had not left her side, and was continuously rattling off question after question.
"So what are like, the plans for today"?
"Like, do you have a date"?
"Has anyone called you to like, wish you a happy birthday"?
"How old are you now"?
"I'M 14 NOW DAISY! YOU SHOULD KNOW THAT"!
Misty had tried to get Daisy to open up over breakfast on why she was so curious about her plan's this year.
"What? I can't like, take an interest in my little sisters life"?
"Violet and Lily don't seem to care" Misty noted, pointing to the other two empty chairs at the table.
"Oh they're just spoiled sports" Daisy defended, and then proceeded to shift the conversation to a different topic.
An hour later here they stood at the door to the Gym, with her oldest sister trying to stop her from leaving.
"Unless you want to fill me in on what your so concerned about today, I'm leaving now" Misty told her sister, turning to open the door.
"I'm not concerned about like, anything" Daisy replied, crossing her arms, "just hurry back"!
"Not concerned, right" Misty mumbled, then took her leave, shutting the door behind her as she walked into the light breeze of the day.
She took a long inhale through her nose as she felt the sun on her skin, and the wind ruffle her hair. The city noises were few today, that would make for a pleasant walk through town!
First stop the PokeMart, they needed a few items for the fish tanks. She took off at an even pace, adjusting the strap of her yellow purse as she walked. She turned off the walkway up to the Gym and headed down the street. Along the way she passed a few people who waved and said hi. Some were even excited to see their up and coming Gym Leader out and about.
Violet would be handling all Gym battles today, so Misty figured today would be the day a few trainers earned their badges. Oh well, she'd continue her trek on making the Cerulean Gym the strongest, tomorrow.
For now, it was her birthday! And she was going to do these few errands and then spend the day doing absolutely nothing! Well, maybe wonder about Ash a little bit...after all, it hadn't been terribly long since they'd last seen each other. She wondered if he even remembered it was her birthday? Since he was in Kanto would him and the others make a trip? The thought was almost comical. Ash? Stop his progression to the Battle Pyramid? Yea, that would happen...
Ash bolted up the Cerulean Gym's walkway, almost forgetting to stop at the door and nearly smacking into it. He raised his hand to knock, but stopped his knuckles a few centimeters from the wood.
"Pika"?
"You think we can pull this off buddy"?
"Pipikachu"!
The Pokemon clenched his fist determinedly, giving Ash a tap on the back of the head with his tail.
"Yea! You're right" Ash smiled back, and rapped on the door, "I sure hope everyone else gets it all ready before it's time".
"Pikaaa".
The door flew open swiftly, and an arm reached out, yanking Ash inside by the scruff of his hoodie. He yelped as he disappeared inside, and the door shut with a snap. Daisy let him go, beginning to pace back and forth as Ash looked at her in confusion.
"Um, is something wrong" he asked, wincing at the crazed look in her eye as she turned to him.
"Is like, something wrong" Daisy practically bellowed, "Misty knows! At least I'm sure she knows. I don't have a like, good poker face. She could tell something was like, up".
"Uh oh" Ash grumbled.
He had called the Cerulean Gym a few days ago from Brock's place. It was the last call he had made, spending hours trying to set up this surprise party by calling everyone he could think of.
"Is Misty around" he had asked carefully, to which Daisy promptly teased him, "not at the moment, she like, went out for food. Why? Are you going to like, finally confess your love for her"?!
Ash blushed and dodged the question by quickly explaining his plan for a surprise party. Daisy fell in love with the idea, and vowed to help in any way possible. She had been working non stop to help the would be arriving guests, and make sure Misty didn't find out. Or they're other sisters, since they couldn't keep a secret to save their lives.
"The party is ruined and it's all like, all my fault" Daisy howled, covering her face with her palms.
Ash was unsure of how to react in this situation, and Pikachu wasn't being helpful, snickering on Ash's shoulder at his facial expression. Then something clicked.
"Wait, is Misty not here"?
Daisy shook her head, removing her hands, "she went out to do like, a few errands".
Panic would be a good word choice for the sensation sweeping through Ash, and it shown on his face. If Misty was out walking the city, then she might accidentally run into one of the party guests!
"Daisy, where did she go" Ash asked hurriedly.
"The PokeMart first, then-".
She didn't get to finish as Ash already bolted back out the door and was sprinting down the walkway, with Pikachu clinging tightly to his head to keep from slipping off.
Misty hummed herself a tune as she walked down the isle in the PokeMart. Her eyes scanning over the various water tank cleaning supplies. A basket was hanging from her arm, a handful of items already thrown in.
"Aha"!
She reached for the cleaner that was strong enough for Gyarados' tank. Tossing it into her basket, she turned to walk away. However, she found herself halting from crashing into a boy about her age. She wobbled in place, and once she found her footing, looked up at him to shout.
He spoke first, "Sorry! I didn't expect you to turn around so fast"!
Was Misty about to yell? No, that couldn't of been right. Why would she yell at a cute boy!? He was a foot taller than her, had dark blue eyes, dirty blonde hair, and was rather muscular for his age.
"Oh no, I'm the one who's sorry" Misty recovered from her anger, "I should watch where I'm going"!
She then let out a girly giggle...smooth Misty...
The boy smiled at her, and offered his hand, "I'm Mark".
"Misty" she replied, taking it.
He shook it professionally, and before letting go, raised it to his lips to place a gentle kiss on her knuckles.
"That's a pretty name for a beautiful woman" he said suavely.
Was she blushing? Judging from the heat rushing to her face, probably...
"Thanks" she mumbled, averting her eyes, but smiling wide.
"I saw you enter the store, and couldn't help myself" Mark told her, "I had to know your name".
Misty felt herself blush deeper, and she hastily said, "now you know! What brings you into the PokeMart"?
Wooooowww Misty...you're on fire...
Mark chuckled at her immediate embarrassed look, and answered her anyway, "I recently caught a Larvitar, so I'm just looking around for a few things to help it out. How about you? Why are you here on a day as beautiful as you"?
Another girly giggle escaped her before she could stop herself, "ohhhh I'm just getting some things for the Gym".
"You're the Gym Leader"?
"Yep! Pretty impressive huh" she winked at him with a smile.
"More than impressive" Mark chuckled, "if I were after the badges I'd certainly stop by now that I know".
"Well, why don-".
She was cut off by a loud crash behind her, followed shortly by an employee moaning in displeasure, then a rapid dozen I'm so so sorry's. Misty turned on the spot, recognizing the apologizing voice.
"Ash"!
The black haired boy turned away from the scowling employee glaring at him over the spilled tank cleaner.
"Misty"!
"Pipipi"!
He ran down the isle towards her, and Mark asked, "you know this disaster"?
Misty disregarded his name for Ash, smiling happily as Ash approached her.
"He's a good friend of mine" she replied.
Mark scowled, which Misty did not see as Ash slid to a halt in front of them.
"What are you doing here" Misty found herself asking incredulously. It was as if her wondering thoughts from earlier were coming true...which never happened.
"You think I would miss you birthday" Ash protested with a big smile.
"Pika Pikachu"!
Misty's own smile widened. Normally she probably would have smacked him for acting so immature and leaving the employee to clean the mess all by themselves, but right now she didn't care.
"What about the Battle Frontier" she asked.
"That can wait, you're more important" Ash told her noncholantly with a wave.
Mark cleared his throat behind Misty, making her jump.
"Oh, sorry Mark" Misty apologized sheepishly, turning back to him, "what were we talking about"?
Mark held in a sigh, and shot Ash a quick glare that he caught, "nothing important. I'll just catch you later. Until the next time beautiful".
He swiftly grabbed her hand and placed another kiss on it. Something deep down inside of Ash roared up at him, and he suddenly found himself feeling angry. What the heck was that about? Was he hungry?
Misty blushed deeply once again, and smiled at Mark as he walked away.
"Who was that? Got a boyfriend now" Ash asked a little accusingly.
"What would it be to you if I did" Misty retorted, spinning on her heels to reface him.
"Just wondering how someone would want to put up with you all the time".
"WHAT WAS THAT ASH KETCHUM"!?
Ash ran, as fast as he could. With Pikachu chittering in his ear to go faster. Misty had dropped her basket of stuff to buy, and lunged at the boy, swinging her fists at him. She chased him straight out of the store, and down the street. Catching curious glances as they sprinted past other people.
The fear in Ash had subsided, and he was now having fun, so he turned and shouted back childishly, "bet you can't catch me Misty"!
"We'll just see about that"!
"Pikaaaaa"!
Misty lunged forward once again, but Ash rounded a corner and dodged her in the nick of time. Her fingertips swiped against Pikachu's tail, and the mouse tucked it in for safety.
Up ahead Ash spotted a public park, and knowing he would be caught soon, rushed towards it. you know, to the softer landing of grass instead of pavement. A car honked at him as he rushed out into the street, Misty closing the gap.
"GOT YOU"!
She dove through the air, wrapping her arms around him and tackling him into the grassy patch. The three of them rolled a few feet, and Ash inhaled dirt. Misty was quick to her feet, ready to strangle the young trainer, but stopped when she heard him laughing.
"All this time and you're still so easy to rile up Misty" he giggled out.
Whack!
"Ow"!
He rubbed the back of his head where Misty had struck him, straightening his hat as he did so.
"Don't look so pitiful" Misty told him, "you deserved it".
"See that Pikachu" Ash fake whined, "come all this way to spend her birthday with her and she hits me".
Misty had temporarily forgotten about her birthday, and suddenly smiled wide, "I kind of can't believe you would take a break just for my birthday".
"Like I said" Ash smiled, standing up, "you're more important".
"Pipikachu" the rodent nodded, scurrying back up to Ash's shoulder.
"What about the others" Misty realized, "where is May? And Max"?
"Oh, them"?
Ash suddenly found himself needing an excuse, and of course, he didn't have one!
"They, uh, they're all staying at Brock's while I'm here" Ash lied, "got tired I guess".
Misty looked a little hurt, so Ash added, "they all wish you a happy birthday though! They just need a rest".
"Well, as long as you're here, right"?
She bought it! Oh yea! Score one for Ash Ketchum!
"Wait a minute" Misty suddenly said, squinting her eyes at him, "Daisy knew about you coming didn't she? That's why she was acting so strange, she was trying to keep it a surprise".
"Uh, um" Ash stuttered, and Misty continued, "I knew it! I can't believe she actually, somewhat kept a secret".
Ash was at a loss for what to say, so he decided on the truth, partially.
"Yea, she knew. I called her a few days ago and told her I'd be coming. Haha".
"So what's the plan then" Misty asked in one breath, "I can finish up my errands tomorrow"!
"Huh"?
She looked at him with wide happy eyes. For the first time in a very long time, she was excited! Someone had planned something on her birthday, and of all people, it was Ash! She was incredibly curious to see what he could have come up with.
Ash realized her expression...she was expecting to hear he had an event planned for them to do. Crap...the only thing he had planned was the party, and she COULD NOT know about that.
"Oh, the plan? Right, follow me" Ash exclaimed, and turned away from Misty so she wouldn't see him sweat.
Pikachu did however, and chuckled at his trainers expression.
"You know you could help me out here" Ash whispered to his Pokemon, who promptly shook his head and laughed some more.
"Didn't May ask you specifically to help me"?
Pikachu shrugged, causing Ash to groan.
Misty stepped in line with him as he led them across the park. Children were running everywhere, playing tag, or hide and seek amongst the few trees. Misty giggled as she watched them. Ash however, was looking every direction for a distraction of some kind, with no friggin luck.
Thirty minutes later, long after they had left the park, Misty began to look at Ash suspiciously.
"You didn't have a plan did you" she asked.
"What? Of course I do" Ash defended himself.
"Then why have you been leading me around Cerulean randomly"?
She had him there, so he just improvised the next few words, "Misty, will you just trust me! I didn't come here without a plan for your birthday"!
"If you say so" Misty grinned, "but I'm starting to guess what it is".
Crap! No no no no no! They rounded a corner, and just like that, Ash couldn't believe his luck! The carnival was in town, and people were rushing towards the ticket booth that sat thirty feet ahead of Ash and Misty.
"Pika"!
The electric Pokemon bounced up on Ash's shoulder, pointing to the carnival happily. Ash knew Pikachu was telling him to take Misty there, but Misty read Pikachu's happiness as them reaching their destination.
"Oh I love these things" Misty exclaimed cheerily, "you remembered that Ash"?!
"You bet I did" Ash proclaimed proudly, puffing out his chest and causing Pikachu to sigh.
Of course he didn't remember! When on Earth did she ever mention that to him?! It didn't matter though, he had found his distraction!
"Come on" he shouted, "let's go"!
Grabbing her hand without thinking, he pulled her towards the ticket line.
POP!
May screamed loudly, jumping forward a good ten feet. Max sniggered behind her, holding the remains of a balloon in his hands.
"MAX! WILL YOU STOP WASTING ALL THE BALLOONS" May fumed, stomping her foot in the grass.
Max proceeded to stick out his tongue and retreat from his sisters grasp.
"Ooohhh, when I get ahold of him" she started to threaten, but was cut off by a motherly voice, "now May, he's just having a bit of fun".
Delia Ketchum walked up beside the young brunette, smiling down at her. In her arms was a square, foil wrapped container of some kind. The two were standing on the outskirts of Cerulean City, setting up the party for Misty near the Cerulean Cape.
"Is that the cake Mrs. Ketchum" May asked, forgetting about her brother and beginning to drool at the thought of the sweet treat!
"It sure is" Delia smiled down at her, "I think Misty will like it".
"I know I will" the younger girl wiped her drool.
POP!
Max's shout of terror rang out, making the two girls turn to the commotion. He had apparently blown one balloon up one breath too many. May giggled and whispered, "justice"!
Delia sat the cake down on the table, and frowned.
"Where are the chairs" she asked May.
"Daisy has them, I think" May put a finger to her chin as she tried to remember, "well, someone does anyway".
Both of them turned and giggled as Max screeched from another balloon popping in his face.
"YAAAAAHHHOOOO" Misty bellowed as the Squirtle shaped cart twirled around and around.
She had her hands in the air, and couldn't resist the massive grin spreading across her happy expression. Ash gripped the makeshift wheel, and tugged as hard as he could, causing the cart to spin the other direction rapidly.
"CHAAAA"!
Pikachu held on tight to Misty's side, squealing with delight. The world spun by them in colorful blurs of all kinds. Misty couldn't try to concentrate on anything in particular as she found it would make her stomach queasy, but she didn't mind that! She was having way too much fun!
The ride operator cut the power, and the Squirtle carts slowed to a stop. Stumbling out of their cart, laughing as they went, they exited the ride behind the crowd of people who also were getting off.
"What should we ride now" Ash asked, steadying his still spinning eyes.
"I'm actually kind of thirsty" Misty told him, her grin still plastered on her face, "you still have the drink chips"?
"Yea, here" he said, fishing them out of his pockets.
"Be right back" she told them, snatching the little round tokens from his hand.
"We'll wait over there" Ash called to her as she ran off, pointing to a bench beside the gaming booths.
She waved back to indicate she had heard him, and then disappeared in line at the concession stand. Taking his seat on the bench, Pikachu hopped down beside his trainer and stretched. Ash leaned back, propping his arms up along the back. Today had certainly been incredibly fun so far! Misty hadn't shouted at him nearly as much as she used to, and he seemed to making her happy, so that was certainly a win in his book. He checked his watch, just to see how much time they had to kill before he had to get her to the party somehow. Six more hours! Perfect!
Wait...not so perfect. Brock's voice floated over to Ash's ears, and nearly giving himself whiplash, he turned his head to follow the sound. Brock COULDN'T be here! It would ruin everything! Sure enough though, there was Brock, hovering over a group of girls. Desperately trying to sing and dance his way into one of their hearts. Dammit!
Ash bolted off the bench, startling Pikachu as he did so. The mouse watched his trainer rush off, his tail stiffening is shock when he too saw Brock. Deciding he would stay here and distract Misty if she should come back right now, Pikachu planted his rear and nervously waited.
Brock hunched over in defeat as one of the girls splashed her soft drink in his face and stormed away, the rest of the group following her lead. He took a moment to regain his composure, and even came up with a line to get himself back in with those girls! Taking a step to rush after them, he found a hand jerked him back, and pushed him behind one of the gaming booths.
"Hey, whoa! What's the deal-Ash"?!
"Brock I need you to listen to me right now"!
Ash motioned for his friend to be quiet, seeing as he had nearly shouted in surprise.
"Aren't you supposed to be distracting Misty" Brock asked hastily, concerned that Ash may have forgot, then it dawned on him.
The panic spread across his face, and he slapped himself on both sides of his temple.
"Oh no! She's here isn't she"?!
"Yes, she is" Ash hissed, grabbing Brock by the shoulder's to help calm him down, "I need you to get out of here! Like right now"!
"Yep! I can do that" Brock said, glancing around quickly to make sure Misty wasn't nearby.
"She's getting us drinks" Ash told him, "so don't go near the concession stand! I told her you and the others stayed behind at your house in Pewter, so if she sees you then she'll royally kick my ass"!
"Got it" Brock stated, "don't worry Ash! I'm gone like a ninja"!
And with that, Brock slunk down low, and took off the other direction.
"Don't get seen" Ash whispered loudly after him, to which Brock shot him a thumbs up, "and don't get distracted again"!
The second thumbs up wasn't as enthusiastic, but it told Ash, Brock had gotten the message.
"Ash"?
He nearly flew out of his shoes at Misty's voice.
Sharply, he spun around as she continued, "what are you doing back here"?
She had two oversized drinks in both of her hands, and Pikachu was on her shoulder looking at Ash like 'I tried my best'.
Had she not seen Brock?! By the curious look on her face, that was a no. Thank God!
"Oh, um, I thought I saw someone I know" he lied, rubbing the back of his head.
She stared at him suspiciously, then asked, "who"?
"Er-Drew" he exclaimed, spouting off the first name that popped into his head, "he's a rival of May's. Wasn't him though".
She shook her head, then held out his drink, "here dork".
He could not believe his lying skills today! Score two for Ash Ketchum!
Max ran along the fence, tying the balloons that he had not popped to the railing.
"Be careful Max" May called to him.
"I'm fine May" he yelled back, "yeesh, you'd think I was about to fall over the edge".
The Cerulean Cape sat on the side of a large hill just north of the city. It overlooked the ocean, and a pathway ran alongside the barricaded cliff side. The party had been chosen to be held at a small grassy picnic area, which included a nice oceanic breeze. It would be the perfect birthday spot for a water trainer.
"Time's still ticking" Delia noticed, "where are the others"?
May looked up to the hill as she ran a steamer through a lone tree's branches. They had been on the lookout for the others for a few hours now, but so far it was still just those three.
"I don't know" May worried, "I hope they make it here soon".
Delia sighed, then smiled encouragingly at May, "I'm sure we're worrying over nothing"!
"Yea, you're right Mrs. Ketchum".
"Of course I am" Delia smirked, "take a look".
She motioned to the hill, and May looked out of the tree. Brock was slowly appearing over the rise, and he wasn't alone. The rest of the party guests were right behind him! Thank the maker!
'Ok, concentrate! It's just a ball and a bottle! You got this'!
His fingers danced over the baseball in his hand, and his eyes stared at the bottle as if it had insulted him. Gripping the sphere tightly, he reared his arm back, and tossed it as hard as he could.
With a clink, and a tiny thud, the baseball knocked the bottle off its shelf and to the floor.
"HOORAY" Ash cheered loudly, jumping up and down, Pikachu joining in.
"You did it Ash" Misty exclaimed in awe, a huge grin cracking across her face.
"Congratulations" the booth clerk droned unenthusiastically, "which one would you like"?
He looked at Ash with a bored stare, waiting for the answer. Behind the clerk sat PokeDolls of all sizes. Some the size of his hand, others the same size as him. Having knocked down all the bottles, Ash was able to choose amongst the biggest dolls.
"Which one are you going to pick" Misty asked, resting her hand on his shoulder as she leaned into his back to see past him.
Ash gave each of them a once over, and spotted the one he wanted, "that one please"!
He pointed, and the clerk lazily followed his line of sight. With a loud sigh, he leaned off the counter and shuffled over to the dolls. Pulling it down, he tossed it over to Ash, who caught it with some trouble. The thing was more than half his size!
"I figured you'd want the Pikachu Doll, not the Vaporeon Doll" Misty stated with a smile.
"Well it's not for me" Ash told her, receiving a puzzled look, "it's for you"!
He handed it over to Misty without giving her a chance to register what he said. She took it with the same puzzled look, then it clicked. An ear to ear smile lit up her face, and she squealed.
"Oh my goodness, Ash! Totally was not expecting that" she laughed, struggling to hold the doll in her arms, "thank you"!
Ash laughed at her delight, "I'm glad you like it".
"Like it? I LOVE it" she jumped in the air, "I never would have thought you'd have the brains to win me a gift"!
"Ouch" Ash joked with sarcasm, placing his hand over his heart, "that hurts Misty".
"Pika Pipikachu" the mouse shrugged.
"Thanks buddy" Ash said smugly.
"Pika"!
"You're blocking the line" the clerk suddenly told them, motioning for them to step aside.
"Sorry" Misty apologized, still smiling like an idiot, "we'll be on our way".
Leading the way as they left, her head swiveled every direction as she looked for the next thing they could do. People bustled by them, on their way to various rides and game booths. Ash took the oppurtunity to check his PokeGear for the time, and nearly shouted aloud. It was already 6:30! Good Lord did time fly while they were there!
"Hey Misty" Ash spoke up, picking up his pace to step in stride with her, "I've got an idea".
"Hm" she turned to him curiously.
"Not going to tell you" he said, "just follow me, ok"?
"Ok"?
He grinned and took the lead. What could he possibly be thinking now? Misty had put two and two together already that he had originally had no plan for her birthday. He simply lucked out with the carnival. She didn't bring it up though, him making the trip to see her was special enough as is. So back to her question, what could he be thinking? What put an idea in his thick head?
He hummed as walked, and Pikachu would turn around to check on her. She finally found a somewhat comfortable way to carry the Vaporeon Doll as they continued out of the carnival. Leave it to Ash to be gentleman enough to win her something, but not have the brains to carry it for her. Typical...
'Don't be so hard on him today' she told herself, 'he's putting out a lot of effort for you'.
She smiled at her own thought, and looked to the back of his head.
'Ash has been a totally different person today! I wonder what's gotten into him? Could he have finally figured out...'.
She blushed and averted her eyes. Stop that train right there Misty!
They continued walking, down the street, past the Pokemon Center, and straight out of town. Where were they going? She opened her mouth to Ask, when he suddenly stopped and turned around.
"Cerulean Cape, right" he asked her, with a look in his eye she couldn't decipher.
"Yes, just over that hill, why"?
Something was up, she was sure of it now. Was this a Team Rocket trap? Was this a fake Ash? Would he lead her over the hill and then Meowth would spring some kind of contraption on her?
"Had to make sure" Ash grinned crookedly, then took her hand, causing the Vaporeon doll to shift into an uncomfortable spot once again.
He led her up to the top.
"Ash" Misty began, "ok, today has been fun, but I seriously need to know what you're up-".
"HAPPY BIRTHDAY MISTY"!
The voices blew her away, but not so much as the small crowd of people on the other side of the hill all smiling up at her, making her jaw dropped in bewilderment.
Standing up front was May, Max, Brock, and Delia. Behind them were Daisy, Violet, Lily, Profesor Oak, and Tracy.
Her eyes glossed over the decorations around them. Different colored balloons lined the railing of the cliff side. Party streamers had been hung from the lone tree beside the table that had been set up next to the balloons. On the table were various birthday decorations that said 'Happy Birthday' in whacky, colorful ways. Not to mention the sizable chocolate cake, and other desert like snacks!
"What" slipped out of her mouth before she even knew she was about to speak.
"It's a party Misty" Ash laughed, "for you".
"For...me" she awed, her mouth still agape.
In all her 14 years, not once could she remember a birthday party being thrown for her. Sure she had cake and presents, but it was never a big ordeal.
"It was Ash's idea" Tracy spoke up, "he called all of us wanting to do something special for you".
Did Misty hear that right? She turned to the boy with the Pikachu beside her.
"Ash"?
Her voice was soft, and curious. Ash simply smiled at her, then said, "you were my first friend Misty, well besides Pikachu".
"Pikachu" he shouted happily.
"I wanted you to have a good birthday this year" Ash continued shyly, rubbing the back of his head, "but it looks like we're missing a person".
"Missing who" a males voice rang out.
Ash had expected Misty to ask, not the voice that came from behind him. He cocked his head to see, and shouted in excitement, "Gary! You made it"!
Gary snorted as he stepped up beside Ash, "like you left me much choice Ashy. He practically begged me to show up".
He turned his nose up away from Ash, but there was a smile on his face. Ash scowled, and Misty giggled. She pushed the Vaporeon doll into Gary's arms before he could protest and wrapped her arms around Ash.
Her sisters immediately made the act embarrassing by awing loudly. Misty didn't care though, she just pulled Ash tight. His face turned a deep red, and he gave Gary a look that clearly said 'don't say anything'.
"Thank you Ash" Misty whispered into his ear.
Ash was surprised to hear a sniffle, and he found himself hugging her back without thinking. The group watched the exchange silently, letting the two have their moment. Gary, however, had other plans.
"Alright, alright" he said loudly, "I didn't come all this way to watch you two hook up, where's the cake"?
The two teens, realizing the amount of intimacy they were showing on front on everyone, broke apart and chuckled nervously while blushing.
"Cake sounds like a good idea to me after all this decorating" May whooped with excitement.
"Calm down May, don't hurt yourself" Max grumbled at her.
She promptly proceeded to flick him on the back of his head, earning a yelp from the younger boy.
While the group laughed as Max retaliated at May by trying to poke her with a stick, Gary rolled his eyes and walked towards the table, leaving Ash and Misty to lag behind him. Misty noticed the young researcher had taken her doll with him, and smiled.
"Pika"?
Misty looked at the mouse, seeing him staring at her curiously. It was then she noticed her arms were still on Ash's shoulders and she squeaked before pulling them away.
Ash, being the oblivious teen he was, looked at her confusedly.
"You ok"?
It took Misty a second to answer him. Why? Because a hundred different emotions raced through her mind. The main one? Love. Not couple love, just the feeling of being loved.
"I'm perfect Ash" she smiled at him, brushing a strand of hair behind her ear.
"Then let's go dig into your cake" Ash exclaimed, taking her hand and pulling her to the others, "mom baked it so we know it will be good"!
Roughly and hour and a half later, Ash and Misty were walking side by side along a lake's shore. The party had went well, lots of laughing and catching up had went on. Misty devoured Mrs. Ketchum's cake, and was ecstatic to see Professor Oak had brought imported Ice Cream from Sinnoh.
She had been half expecting her sisters to try and embarrass her and Ash, but the award for that went to Gary. He loudly proclaimed he had brought a special gift for Misty, and then suavely leaned over and planted a kiss on her cheek. Of course, Misty turned every shade of red possible.
Ash did too however, but not from embarrassment. Misty saw him turn his head away pointedly, and strike up a conversation with Max. Gary then tossed Misty a wink and whispered, "he's too easy! The real gift will come in about five minutes, you're welcome".
Misty had asked him his meaning, but he simply gave her his Gary smirk and turned to flirt with Daisy. Five minutes later, Ash was still red, but he pulled Misty aside as the others began to pack up the party decorations.
"Where are we going" Misty asked.
Ash stuttered, but got out, "I just thought we could get away from everyone and everything for a while".
Then Misty had understood Gary's meaning. She pieced together that he had made Ash jealous on purpose so he would take her away and have her all to himself. She giggled aloud at the thought, and Ash looked at her with a raised brow.
"Nothing" she sang, and wrapping her arms behind her, putting a skip in her step.
So here they sat, on the edge of the lake, amongst a field of yellow flowers. Sitting on the peaceful tranquility of being alone. The sun was beginning to set, casting orange, red, and yellow rays of light. Misty's hair was practically glowing, and the flowery field was dancing in the light, while the water sparkled under the tiny waves from swimming Pokemon.
Misty dipped her toes in the water, discarding her shoes to the side. She sighed at the warm tingling sensation of the ripples against her skin. Ash leaned back on his hands, staring up at the colorful sky. A breeze whisked by, ruffling their hair, and sending a shine off of Misty's.
"Hey Ash".
"Hm"?
He turned his head to her, but she wasn't looking at him. Her eyes were locked onto a lily pad floating on the water. She opened her mouth, but hesitated. Ash waited patiently, a gentle smile cracking on his lips as he looked at the sunshine across her face. Finally, she turned and locked her sparkling light blue eyes on his.
"I know I already said thank you, but...thank you".
"It was no big deal" Ash waved it off, but Misty stopped him, "don't ruin this, let me say what I need to say".
Ash looked at her curiously, wondering what that look behind her eyes was, but he nodded so she could continue.
"When you showed up at the PokeMart I almost thought you were here for something involving the Battle Pyramid. I figured you'd only call and wish me a happy birthday again. That's what I thought everybody would do. I thought my sisters would wake me up like always, sing me happy birthday, give me a cake, and that'd be the end of it, aside from all the phone calls".
She paused to smile at him, turning a little shade of red, which only inflamed her hair more in the setting sun, "then you gave me the best birthday I've ever had! Today was so much fun, and so unexpected. I still can't wrap my mind around how you organized all this, but whatever...".
She saw Ash trying to hold back his smile, and she lightly reached out and tapped him with her fist, "what I'm trying to say is...Ash, I know I give you a hard time, but you really are the best. Thank you for being my friend".
Ash was touched, not that he was going to let Misty know that...or was he? The corner of his eye noticed a swaying yellow flower, and his main focus was still locked onto her eyes. Acting on impulse, you know, a typical Ash thing to do, he said "Misty".
"Hm"?
Reaching out he plucked the flower, and without a warning to her, began trying to insert it into her hair just above her ear. He held back her hair with one hand and struggled to position the flower with the other.
He didn't notice the deep shade of red Misty had turned now, and she couldn't help but giggle at his intense focused expression. Eventually, he succeeded in his mission, and got the flower in place. The yellow clashed magnificently with the orange hair in the almost set sun.
Their eyes locked once more, and for the first time, Ash felt a spark shoot up his spine. The way she was looking at him was...incredible! He could never describe it any other way. Was she getting closer? Or was that him? Or both? The heat rushed into his face as her eyes began to flutter closed the nearer she got. Her sweet, oceanic smell was intoxicating...and he could feel her warm breath on his lips...
"AAAGGGHHH"!
A Magikarp splashed out of the water, landing smack dab in Ash's lap, swatting him in the face with its tail. He flailed his arms wildly, trying to rid himself of the fishy menace. Misty, who had been caught off guard just as much as Ash, fell into a fit of laughter that she couldn't control. The Magikarp 'karped' at him as he finally gripped its tail and swung it overhead, sending it back into the lake.
"What...the heck" Ash said through gasps of air.
Misty was unable to answer, as she was still in a state of giggles with tears running from her eyes.
"I hope that was entertaining enough for you" Ash barked sarcastically, wiping some Magikarp slime from his face.
He grunted at her in annoyance as she tried her best to regain her composure. Looking at him with a strained face containing her laughter, she smiled through it. Ash glared at her, unsure of what had just about happened, and unsure of what to do now. Misty snorted as she almost burst once again.
That was it, Ash cracked, his crooked grin spread across his face, and soon the two of them were laughing together. The sun had completely set by the time they regained themselves.
"I've really enjoyed my time with you today Ash" Misty said shakily as she tried not to laugh again.
"Me too Mist" he nodded.
A short silence followed, with the both of them thinking the same thing...what now?
"So, will you visit me again soon" the red head asked softly, not meeting his gaze.
"Of course I will" he smiled encouragingly.
"Good, because I'd hate for-CAMERON"!
What the hell just happened? If Ash had to describe what he just witnessed...well, it was a glitch. Misty had seemed to digitally twitch, and May's voice came from her. Cameron...why did he know that name? He looked down at the grass as he tried to think. A jolt of electricity quickly coursed through him, and then was gone almost as fast, making him yelp in shock.
"Ash" came Misty's worried voice.
He looked back up at her, only he was no longer sitting by the lake. He was standing thirty feet from a shrine like statue, surrounded by barren rock faced cliffs. Then the same glitch that had happened a second ago, happened again, only to...everything!
Suddenly, his vision was flashing different things before his eyes. May was screaming Cameron's name, Brock was shielding Delila from yellow lightning headed their direction, Dominion's were in a battle with the Legendary Birds, and then an explosion blew apart the shrine and Cameron dove through the air to catch a yellow sphere made of glass.
The electricity shocked through him again, and he jerked violently. It did it again, and again, and each time it hurt a little more. One particularly violent shock caused him to jerk so hard his head banged against a hard surface. His eyes flew open, and out of habit he nearly shouted "Pikachu" but all that came out were bubbles. He began to panic as he swallowed the water, but soon found a hose was around his nostrils to allow him oxygen. What the Hell...he was in a tank of some kind...connected to dozens of wires.
"Oh good, you're awake"!
That voice...Ash turned his head in the water...an older man, with a scar running down his face grinned at him from the outside of the glass.
"You're brain activity has been off the charts" Giovanni said, "been dreaming have we"?
Then the reality of his situation came back to him. The Dominion invasion, his mother, Pikachu, Dawn and Misty...where was Dawn and Misty?! Giovanni grew a wicked smile on his expression as Ash's eyes traveled the room. You know...being captured by Team Rocket was not the worst part...no...it was seeing the Darkin connected to a computer that was the worst. How did Giovanni get that? Did that mean...
"Lance is still alive" the Rocket Leader answered Ash, following his eyesight, "he got lucky".
And just like that we're back lol. I had a lot of fun writing this chapter, and it was a much needed break for me as it was for all of you. I also think it added a bit of depth to the losses going on for everyone. Also, to clarify, yes this is legitimate backstory. None of it was created by Giovanni, or the Darkin, or Dominion's, or whatever. The only 'affected' part is at the tail end when the glitches start happening.
And, and, and, who expected we'd see Mark again? Even if it was just a cameo in a flashback. Oh, that bastard! haha
Aside from Mark, did everybody catch the references I had to other events throughout the series? There was kind of a lot actually...
I couldn't remember if the Grand Festival and the Battle Pyramid were at the same time or not, so they were in this story :p
Anyways! Let me know what you thought, and I'll see you next chapter. Which should follow Brock and co. but we'll see how that goes :)