Authors Note:

Well as per usual I'm a little late getting this chapter to all of you. I am replacing the previous message so that this chapter can truly be "Chapter 8".

Anyway, this chapter was much longer then I originally thought it would be but I'm happy with how it turned out.

I reread my story from the beginning and I think I'm going to make some small changes, but nothing major.

Thank you to those that responded to my previous message and I hope more of you come back to this story. I have some fun ideas for the future. I can't promise how often I will be updating but it will be sooner then 5 years haha.

Since its been so long here are some Character ages:

Ash- 21

Misty-22

Brock-26

Drew-19

May-19

Dawn-17

Max- 18

Tracey-25

Gary-21

I also noticed I didn't really specify a time of year so I'm going to tell you here that it is early summer right now. So when Ash first found Misty it was around late April-Spring time.

I hope you enjoy this Chapter!

Disclaimer: I sadly do not own Pokemon or any of its characters

Two Look at Two:

"Happy Birthday, Mist."

Misty sat with her eyes wide. "I can't believe you did this," she whispered quietly. She really couldn't. For weeks she had been expecting something nice for her birthday, but not a Pokémon.

Ash sat nervously next to her. He was having a hard time gauging her reaction to the gift. "I wanted to get you something special." Ash was beginning to think this wasn't a good idea.

"But an Eevee?" She was in awe. Never once had she thought she would own another Pokémon after losing her team to her sisters.

Ash watched as Misty leaned forward and slowly moved her hand toward the small creature. The little normal type backed away slightly. "Oh it's okay sweetie. I'm not going to hurt you." Misty held her hand out to the baby Pokémon and Eevee moved closer and sniffed the tips of her fingertips then let out a small, "Vee", and jumped into Misty's lap. She giggled and ran her hand over the soft brown fur and caused Eevee to purr.

"She is such a cutie! Where did you even find an Eevee?"

Realizing that his gift had been a success, Ash let out a breath he didn't know he was holding. Straightening his shoulders he relied with, "I have my sources." Leaning back on his elbows he added, "I am the Pokémon Master after all."

Giving a smirk, Misty suggested, "Brock?"

"Yeah…." Ash sat up and rubbed the back of his head. "But it was my idea. I just needed a little help finding one.."

Misty nodded. "Well they are pretty rare for Kanto. Where did he find one?" Misty couldn't take her eyes off the precious Pokémon. Eevee was lying on her back now and batting at Misty's hands playfully.

Ash reached out his own hand to pet the little Pokémon, who gave a contented sigh. "At one of his breeder conventions. He said that she is still just a baby."

"And a cute baby! I've always wanted an Eevee! We are going to be the best of friends, aren't we?" Misty cooed at the little Pokémon in her lap and was responded to with a delighted "Vee!"

"Vee!" Eevee jumped out of Misty's arms and started running circles around her happily. Misty giggled at the adorable actions of her new Pokémon. Ash's smile grew even wider at the sound of her laugh. He was so happy he was able to make this day happy for her.

"Pika!" Pikachu down jumped from a branch above and landed between Ash and Misty. Eevee hadn't noticed him and when she came around from behind Misty she stopped short. "Pipika!" He greeted happily. Eevee was so startled by the strange Pokémon that she jumped back into Misty's arms and buried her head in her chest.

Misty held the Pokémon close and tried to reassure her. "It's okay, sweetie. It's just Pikachu. You don't have to be afraid of him. He's a friend. He didn't mean to scare you."

"Pika…" Seeing the reaction he had on Eevee, Pikachu backed away and lowered his ears.

"It's okay Pikachu, Eevee just hasn't met that many Pokémon yet." Ash assured his Pokémon.

Turning to Pikachu Misty also reassured the little electric type. "Yeah don't worry I'm sure she'll warm up to you." Looking down she said soothingly, "Eevee, this is just Pikachu. He's very friendly, I promise."

Eevee poked her nose out only a little and watched the electric type carefully. Pikachu took a few steps closer and sat down in front of Misty. He took his tail and used the tip and gently tapped Eevee on the nose which caused her to wiggle it slightly. He did it again and a small smile appeared. One more time and Eevee gave a bigger smile and attempted to bat the tail with a tiny paw. Pikachu pulled away just in time so she missed. Eevee jumped out of Misty's arms and began to chase after Pikachu's tale.

"I think they're going to be great friends." Ash chuckled as they began to play peekaboo around a large flower pot.

"Looks like it." Misty almost forgot about the other part of her gift and pulled the necklace out of the box and reattached the pokéball. "And the necklace is so beautiful."

Ash smiled and said, "I'm glad you like it. I figured it would be a lot easier to carry her pokéball like that instead of on a belt since it's the only one you have."

Misty nodded while still examining the pendant. "It will. I didn't know that you could get standard pokéballs in anything but red."

"It was a special order," Ash felt a small blush beginning to creep on his cheeks as he continued with, "I thought it would match better."

The blush began to spread to the red head. Taking a shot she asked, "Can you help me put it on?" She wasn't sure if Ash would accept since this was usually an act that a significant other would perform but since Ash gave it to her, so he should be the one to put it on.

"Um.. Sure," the blush growing a little. Ash was thankful that Misty was turned away from him now. He mumbled under his breath as he struggled with the tiny clasp. Once it was secure Ash asked, "There, how's that?"

Misty turned around and pulled him in for a hug. "Perfect. I can't tell you how much this means to me." It was her turn to be thankful she wasn't facing Ash as her cheeks began to glow. Misty didn't think she would ever own a Pokémon again. It wasn't like she was traveling again or an official trainer. She thought those days were simply behind her. Now sitting here with this new baby Pokémon, one that she always wished she could own, she was beyond happy.

"Don't mention it." Ash reciprocated the hug, his face growing brighter. Looking up he caught a glimpse of his mother smiling at them through the kitchen window. He reluctantly pulled away and told Misty he'd be right back. She nodded and began to fawn over Eevee again as she came back toward the shade.

Sliding through the back door, Ash raised an eyebrow and crossed his arms, "Home so soon mom?"

Smiling up at her son she replied sweetly with, "I told you I would be home early today." She shook her head playfully, "You really need to start paying more attention to me, honey."

"I heard you. What I didn't hear you say was that you were going to spy on us in the backyard." Ash was holding his ground. He had expressed to his mother, and others, that he didn't want their interference with the relationship he was trying to rebuild with the redhead. He wasn't sure where or how far it was going to go, but he wanted it to happen naturally.

Waving off her son, Delia said, "Oh stop worrying. I only just got in when you two started hugging. I am sorry though if I interrupted something. It would have been lovely to see the first kiss between the two of you."

Ash's mouth dropped at the suggestion from his mother. "We weren't going to kiss mom! We aren't in that place!"

"Oh, what a shame." Delia went over to the cupboard and started grabbing ingredients to bake a cake, ignoring her sons glare. She began mixing them together and came up with a thick batter rather quickly. It amazed Ash sometimes how quickly his mother could get around the kitchen. "It's been so nice to see you so happy lately. Misty was the only girl who could do that, you know. Can you get down the cake pan please?"

Letting his arms drop to his sides defeated, Ash walked over to the cabinet above the refrigerator and reached up to get the pan. He placed it next to Delia. "That still doesn't mean we were going to kiss."

After Delia poured the batter into the pan she looked up at her son. "Even so. I don't mean to be pushy. I just see how the two of you make each other so happy and I wish you didn't have to start over. I know you were too busy to start anything before gaining your new title but then that spat happened between the two of you."

Ash frowned. "It was more than just a spat mom. I really hurt her." Ash sighed and continued, "And because of that she got hurt even more." Ash looked out the window and observed the new owner playing with her Pokémon, happier than he had seen her in a long time. "I can't ignore the fact that there is something between us but I'm not sure if I want to risk what we have and hurt her again. I don't want to lose her again."

"I know Ashy. You are in a rough spot, with your relationship so shaky." She went over and laid a hand on the side of his face. "But I have no doubt that you will make it up to her and you will be just as close as before."

Smiling at her kind, positive words, Ash responded with, "I sure hope you are right. I just want to take this at our own speed."

"I understand dear." Removing her hand from his cheek, Delia placed the cake in the oven and turned toward her son. "Hopefully tonight will help Misty get back some more of the happiness she had before."

Raising a suspicious eyebrow, the Pokémon Master asked, "What's going on tonight?"

"Nothing you need to worry about. Just my own little surprise for her." The older women winked. "I do need you to get her out of the house until after 5 o'clock though."

Still suspicious over what his mother was up to, he followed her to the other side of the kitchen. "Why then?"

"Because that's how long I need to set up my surprise." Delia was busy getting some supplies out for more food. "Keep up with me Ash."

Ignoring her teasing, Ash asked, "Alright but what am I supposed to do with her?"

"You're smart. I'm sure you can think of something." Delia walked over to the stove and turned it on. Realizing what time it was she said, "And you need to think quickly. I need to get started or it won't be ready in time." She rushed Ash back out the door and said, "Good luck Ash!"

Shaking his head Ash turned his attention back to Misty. She was now playing with both of the Pokémon. He leaned his forearms on the railing to the porch and tried to think of something for them to do.

While Ash was brainstorming, Misty stopped and turned toward him. She smiled and gave a little wave and he did the same back.

Misty came over and he asked, "Having fun with Eevee?"

"Of course! She has so much energy too. I almost forgot what it was like to take care of such a young Pokémon." Misty looked off to the side. She began to reminisce about the last baby Pokémon she raised. Togepi had been such a handful but she enjoyed every second of it.

Ash nodded in agreement. "Yeah those were the days. I haven't caught a new Pokémon in years. I have to admit, I really miss it."

"I loved catching new Pokémon. Finding a new friend and then getting to bond with them. It was great." Looking back toward her new friend she said, "I really need to find a way to tire her out though. I don't think Pikachu can keep up with her forever."

Realizing this was his chance to get Misty away from the house, Ash suggested, "Maybe we can take her out and do something?"

"Like what?" Misty looked toward the taller male with a questioning look on her face.

Ash popped up as the idea hit him. "We can take her to Professor Oak's lab! There is tons of space and other Pokémon for her to play with there."

Misty perked up at the idea. "That sounds like a great idea, Ash!"

He leaned against the railing of the porch again with a satisfied smirk, "Naturally."

Misty rolled her eyes and mocked, "Alight let's get going before your head gets any bigger."

The late afternoon sun was still warm, shinning down on the two trainers as they walked back toward their home. It was now early Summer so the weather was warm, but not too warm.

"That was so much fun! And it was really good for Eevee to meet so many Pokémon."

"Like I said before, all my ideas are good."

She would have smacked him playfully if she didn't have her arms full already. "Sure they are." Misty teased and Ash huffed next to her. Looking down at the sleeping Pokémon in her arms she said, "Today really wore her out."

"Yeah, Pikachu too." Ash chuckled as he rubbed the head of his droopy-eyed Pokémon on his shoulder. Looking back to the sleeping baby in Misty's arms he continued, "Did you see how easily she opened up to all the Pokémon?"

"Yeah she was so friendly! But she took a special liking to your Buizel. She followed him around all day." Misty laughed, recalling the event from the day.

"That was really cute." Ash nodded in agreement, but then frowned. "Although, it wasn't so great when she fell into the pond."

Cringing at the memory of the terrified and soaked Pokémon, Misty said, "That was terrible! Buizel felt awful about that! And she wouldn't go near the water the rest of the day. "

"You know, I hope she isn't too afraid of water now. That'll really suck when you decide to evolve her into a Vaporeon."

Misty raised a brow to the Pokémon Master and asked, "What makes you think I'll evolve her into a Vaporeon?"

Stopping in his tracks, Ash asked incredulously, "You're kidding right? What are you going to evolve her into? A Flareon?"

Misty didn't stop. She just shrugged her shoulders calmly and continued down the road. "Maybe."

Catching up to her, Ash put a hand on her shoulder and said, "Come on, Mist. You are a water-type Pokémon trainer."

Misty shrugged his hand away and said sternly, "I was a water-type Pokémon trainer. And that part of my life is over." Eevee began to wriggle in her arms. "Sorry sweetie. You'll be more comfortable in here." Misty took the pokéball from her necklace and recalled Eevee. "Get some rest you had a full day."

Unsure whether he should actually ask this question, Ash decided to anyway. "What are you going to do then?" When Misty lowered her head, Ash began to regret it. He had done such a good job making Misty happy today he didn't want to ruin it.

Before he could take it back, Misty shrugged and replied, "I guess try and have a normal life now. I start my job at your mom's restaurant in a couple days."

Ash snuffed. "You haven't lived a normal day in your life, Misty. We traveled and battled too much for that."

"Well there's always a first for everything. I can't go back to being a trainer. End of story." Misty made a stern face and continued to walk toward their destination.

Ash thought about letting it go but instead mumbled, "That doesn't sound like fun."

Realizing the conversation wasn't over yet, Misty sighed, "Sometimes life isn't always fun, Ash."

"I just meant that if you are going to do something you should at least enjoy it." Ash walked up to the front door but it wouldn't open. He stood there for a moment wondering why it wasn't unlocked.

"Well we all can't have our dream jobs, Mr. Pokémon Master." Wondering why they had stopped at the front door for so long, Misty asked, "What's wrong?"

"The front door is locked."

"So? Just use your key and unlock it."

Ash had a nervous chill run through his body. Her new the feisty red head would not be happy. "Well, um, you see.."

Misty narrowed her eyes and asked, "You didn't bring your key, did you?"

"Nope." Turning his head, he raised his hands in defense, "Mom didn't say she was leaving."

"Wonderful." Misty threw her head back. "Just when I thought this was the perfect day, you go and get us locked out for who knows how long."

Turning fully toward her, Ash said, "Well I don't see you pulling out a key." Taking his cell phone out of his pocket he dialed his mom's phone. "No answer."

"Wonderful." Ash didn't respond. He walked right past Misty and headed for the side of the house. "Where are you going?"

"I'm not just going to sit around here. I'm going to see if the back door is open. If not, I'll climb in through a window." Ash was beginning to worry. It wasn't like his mother not to answer his call. Plus she said she was going to be home. She even told him to bring Misty back at this time.

Misty followed behind him. They came around the side of the house and heard something strange coming from the backyard.

Misty got closer to Ash and whispered, "Do you hear that?"

Ash stopped and grabbed her arm so she would do the same. He nodded. He narrowed his eyes and tried to listen closer but couldn't quite make it out. Was that a voice he just heard? No, it sounded like hushed voices. He wasn't sure what was going on but he didn't like the looks of things.

"What is it?"

"It sounds like voices and people moving around." Ash motioned for Misty to get behind him. Looking at Pikachu on his shoulder he said, "Get ready Pikachu." Nodding, the yellow mouse jumped of his shoulder to lead the group, no longer looking tired.

They came around to the back and were met by a group of familiar faces jumping out and yelling, "SURPRISE!"

Unfortunately, Pikachu wasn't expecting this and an instant after the word left their mouths, electricity surged through their bodies.

Ash stepped further into the yard and was surprised at the sight asked, "What's going on here?"

Misty gasped next to him. "It's our friends Ash. But what are they doing here?" Indeed, standing in front of them was Gary, Tracey, May, Drew, Max, Dawn, and Brock. Well almost all of their friends. Iris, Cilan, Bonnie, and Clement lived too far away to visit most of the time. The only other person not there was Serena. But she and Misty didn't meet eye to eye most of the time so that's probably the reason for her absence.

"Receiving a dose of electroshock therapy, obviously." Gary sarcastically stated, as he picked himself off the ground and began brushing himself off.

"I knew we shouldn't have done that!" Dawn whined while she tried to get her hair under control. "It took me forever to get my hair under control this morning!"

"We always get shocked when we are around Ash so why does it even matter anymore?" May specified while her green haired boyfriend helped her off the ground.

"If only he could control his Pokémon better, then maybe it wouldn't happen so often." Drew sneered after making sure his girlfriend was okay.

Ash rubbed the back of his head, "Sorry about that.." Realizing the derogatory remark from the green haired coordinator he was about to defend himself when he was cut off.

"Are you all oka-" Misty was cut off by a group hug from none other than May and Dawn. Happy birthday, Misty!" They yelled in unison.

"Thanks but you guys are suffocating me.." Once they let go she asked, "What are you all doing here?"

"I called them." Delia made herself known from behind the younger girls.

"Mrs. Ketchem," Misty furrowed her brow, "you didn't have to do this for me.."

"I wanted to. And you deserve it. You are like family and I will treat you like my family."

Holding back tears from the sentiment, Misty hugged Delia, "Well thank you."

"You're welcome dear, happy birthday. You haven't seen your friends in so long. I wanted to make sure they were all here for your day," She let go and said, "I have to finish some stuff inside, so have fun with your friends."

"I will. Thank you again." Misty turned toward the group of people again and was taken aback. "Why are you all looking at me like that?"

"We are just so excited to see you again!" Dawn yelled.

"Yeah we haven't seen you in years!" May agreed pulling the redhead in for another hug.

"It hasn't been that long, has it?" Misty knew that in fact it had. She hoped they wouldn't pry.

Max came over and stated, "Actually it's been approximately three years. We haven't seen Misty since her and Ash got into that big fight."

Unfortunately the incident was brought up again. "Oh yeah... That's why…" Misty sullenly said.

Dawn walked over to Max and flicked him in the head. "We don't need to be reminded, Max."

He rubbed where she hit, "Well she asked! I was only answering her question!" Max spat back.

Ash realized from experience, Dawn and Max could fight almost as long as him and Misty. He decided to step in between them. Ash put his arm around the younger man and led him away. "Let's leave the girls to themselves Max. Plus, we need to discuss which stories we should never, ever bring up." Once the two were a safe distance away from the girls, Ash let go of Max.

"Sorry about that Ash." Max pushed his glasses further up his face. "I didn't realize that was still a sore spot with you two."

Waving him off he replied, "It's complicated. Don't worry too much though. Just try not to mention it again."

Max nodded and the two made their way over to the group of guys standing near the porch, which included Brock, Tracey, and Drew.

"Well you certainly know how to make an entrance, Ash." Brock teased.

Ash rubbed the back of his head. "Sorry about that again. I had no idea you were all going to be here."

"Well your mom made us promise we wouldn't tell you." Gary said in a slightly taunting way. "She must have known you couldn't keep a secret."

"How come?" Ash asked trying to ignore his formal rivals bait.

"Because you are terrible liar. You ruin all our surprises." Drew accused, flicking a piece of hair away from his face.

"I do not." Ash tried defending himself but instead caused the group to burst out laughing. "I'm serious!"

Gary decided to take the first jab. "Of course you do. Don't you remember the time you let it slip that we were going to get Gramps a new recliner for Christmas?"

"And the time he found out I was going to ask May out." Drew nudged Gary in the side and explained, "He congratulated her before I even had a chance to ask her."

"I remember that." Brock joined in. "You had something really romantic planned out and when he ruined it you chased him down threatening to beat him up."

Drew glared at Ash, "I would have if May hadn't stopped me."

"Oh calm down Romeo." Gary teased, "You still got the girl."

"I told you to stop calling me that Gary." Drew heard Ash snicker so he turned and spat, "What do you think is so funny, Ashy Boy." This seemed to really rile Ash up.

Brock stepped between them and said, "Alright that's enough guys. We are here to celebrate Misty's birthday, not see who can come up with the most annoying nickname."

They shot each other one last dirty look before finally backing down. Still wondering how they all got to his backyard, Ash asked, "What brought you all to Kanto?"

Max explained, "Your mom called everyone and explained that she wanted to through a party for Misty. May, Drew, Dawn, and I were all in Johto, about to head home, when she called so it was perfect timing."

"Bonnie, Clemont, Iris, and Cilan couldn't make it though. It's such a long trip for them and they had too much going on. They sent their best wishes though." Brock added

Before anyone could stop him, Max asked, "What about Serena?"

Ash stiffened and lowered his head a little, his features darkening slightly. Brock stepped in and said quietly, "She couldn't make it either. She didn't give a reason though, just said she couldn't make it." Brock gave a shake of his head that told Max not to ask. Brock was the only one that new what went on between her and Ash.

"Two for two Max. Good job." Max lowered his head dejectedly. Drew tried to steer the conversation in a different direction. "I think Clemont couldn't come because he's working a new big project.

Sparking his interests, Max raised a finger and specified, "I'm sure. But what I am interested in is finding out if there is anything new Professor Oak has discovered."

Being so close to the aforementioned professor, Tracy explained, "Actually he has made some big breakthroughs in theories of evolution and growth depending on this new berry they discovered in Kalos."

"That sounds fascinating!" Max perked up even more, eager to learn as much as he could.

"If you want to talk to him about it I believe he is in the living room with Mrs. Ketchem."

"Of course I do! Let's go!" Max followed after Tracey to inside the house.

"Now that the young one's gone, how about we pass the beers around?" Gary handed a few out. He took a sip and asked, "So Ash, you and Red hook up yet?"

Ash nearly chocked on the sip of beer he took. "E-excuse me?"

"Come on. We all know what's going on between you two. You live together and your mom says you two do everything together." Gary raised an eyebrow suggestively.

Brock interjected before Ash could respond. "Don't try to get anything out of him. I've been trying for weeks now."

Ash moaned realizing where this was going. He placed a hand on his face. "That's because nothing is going on, Brock."

Gary nudged Drew and gave him a mischievous smile. "So does that mean she is free?"

Ash narrowed his eyes, not liking where this was going. "What do you mean?"

Gary took a step forward and put his arm over Ash's shoulder. "If there isn't anything going on between you and Misty, I think I'll ask her out." Pointing toward the aforementioned redhead, "She is looking hot lately."

Pushing his childhood rival away, Ash warned, "Don't even think about it Gary."

"And why is that?" Gary had him right where he wanted him. He could see the red forming on his childhood rivals face. "She is single and as you said before, nothing it going on between you two."

Huffing Ash replied, "Because you just can't, okay?" Ash could almost feel the vein in his head pop out at the thought of Gary and Misty together.

Gary looked up slightly as if thinking about the reason Ash had just given him. "No I don't think that's okay. Give me a reason, Ashy boy."

The sound of the nickname he hated really got him flustered. "Because… Because she would never go for a guy like you."

"You mean handsome and successful?" Gary waved a hand in front of his body. "Because I think that is exactly the kind of person she is looking for." Gary specified.

Drew shrugged, "I suppose but I'm already with May."

Gary turned his attention to the green-haired coordinator. "I wasn't talking about you Grass-head."

"What did you just call me?" Drew shot a dangerous look toward to Pokémon researcher.

Brock leaned toward Ash and whispered, "Come on, this could get ugly."

Ash and Brock walked away from the two arguing to the only other spot in the yard that wasn't taken. Ash sat down on the bench swing and took another generous sip of his beer.

The breeder lighting kicked his friends shoe and said, "So you got pretty worked up back there."

Raising a hand, Ash warned, "Don't even start, Brock."

Brock sat down next to him and stated, "I'm not going to stop until you tell me what's going on."

"Why do you even care so much?" Aggravation was evident in his tone.

"Because you two are both my closest friends and I care about the both of you. There is obviously something bothering you and it has been for over three years. And it's only gotten worse since Misty has come back. You may be happier now but I can tell there is still something on your mind. If you tell me maybe I can help."

"Is that the only way you'll let this go?" Brock nodded so Ash took a big sip of his beer. "Fine, what do you want to know?"

The Pokémon breeder smiled widely. He wanted to start slowly. He knew the wrong question could shut Ash down again. "How have things been between you two?"

"Fine."

"From what I hear, it's a little better then 'fine'. I hear you spend all of your time together." Brock gentle elbowed his friend, encouraging him to continue.

Ash shook his head and grumbled, "I really need to get mom another hobby."

"Well since you won't tell me anything I had to get my information on your relationship from someone."

Ash responded exasperatedly, "We aren't in a relationship."

"Now we are getting somewhere!" Brock smiled even wider before continuing. "And why aren't you in a relationship?"

Ash shrugged. "Because we don't think about each other like that."

Now the breeder narrowed his eyes at the blatant lie. "Okay that's a bunch of bull and you know it."

Raising his voice, although not high enough for the entire backyard to hear, "Well what do you want me to say? That I can't think about anyone but her? That all I can think about is making her happy again. That ever since she came back I am actually happy again?" He lowered his voice, realization coming over him. "That seeing her happy again is what is making me happy. That having her back in my life just feels right."

Brock gave a single nod. "That would be a good start."

Shaking his head of such thoughts, "Well I can't do that. I already messed up once and look what happened. I couldn't do that to her again. I would never forgive myself if she got hurt again."

"Have you ever thought that if you don't go for it, that might hurt her more."

Ash turned toward his friend and raised an eyebrow. "Hurt her more?"

"Well if she isn't with you, then she is going to look for someone else. What happens when they hurt her? Or worse, she ends up with a player like Gary." Ash put his head in his hands and moaned at the thought. "What is she wants to try it out with you but you reject her. I'm just trying to say that you need to at least give it an honest chance."

Ash opened his mouth, but Brock already knew what he was going to say. "I don't want to hear it. Last time didn't count. All you did was get into a fight and you said some things you shouldn't have. You should have listened to me when I said to go after her. But you didn't and look what happened. Listen to me this time."

After a moment of contemplation, Ash asked, "You really think I should?"

The breeder nodded. "I do. You have a chance to change this and you need to make the best of it."

"What if she doesn't feel that same way about me?" Ash looked at his friend, eyes worried.

"Well I guess there is only one way to find out." Brock got up to walk away and after a few steps he turned and said, "But I would put money on it that she does."

Ash put his head in his hands again and considered Brocks point. Does she even feel the same about me? What if she did feel the same and was just waiting for him to make a move. And if he did and she rejected him what would that do to their relationship now? What if she didn't really forgive him for what he said?

He sat back and found himself looking at her. That happened a lot lately. She was with the other girls and it looked like she was opening gifts. Misty pulled a dress out of a box and held it up to herself. She thanked Dawn and gave her a hug. He grinned and thought. Ash new she would look nice in it but the odds of Misty wearing the dress were pretty low. Misty leaned more toward jeans then dresses. As he was watching the scene, May noticed Ash staring at them.

She gave him small wink, knowing that the redhead next to her was what caught his eye. He knew that if he didn't stop staring he would never hear the end of it so instead he decided to look at the sky. Dusk was coming over the yard and the stars were just starting to make an appearance.

May took this as a good opportunity to start her own line of questions. She talked to Crock before the party and each decided to attempt to get some information about the reacquainted pair. Turning back to the group she said, "So Misty, tell us. What have been up to lately?"

"Nothing really. Just hanging around Pallet town and relaxing." Misty folded the dress and placed it back into the box. "Delia's made me feel so welcome here."

Dawn was in on it too so she tried to push things along. "That sounds nice but is there anything else going on?"

Misty stopped to think and responded with, "Well I'm starting a job at her restaurant in a few days".

Being a tad blunter, May demanded, "What we mean is what's going on between you and Ash?"

Misty was taken off guard by the question. She figured they would have something to say but not so soon. "What are you talking about? Nothing's going on."

Dawn leaned over toward May and whispered, "Brock was right; this is going to be hard."

May nodded back and accused, "So you are telling me that you two spend all your time together and nothing is going on?"

Misty made an attempt to tone down the situation by waving them off. "Well we spend time together but I wouldn't say all of our time. And we just hang out, nothing else."

Dawn crossed her arms, not believing a single word the redhead was saying. "Uh huh. I think there is something you aren't telling us Misty."

Misty let out an exasperated sigh, "Guys please, I've been through a lot lately and I'm just trying to get used to this new life. I just want to enjoy my birthday without getting the third degree. Can I do that, please?"

They both apologized. They wanted to know what was going on but they had until tomorrow night to find out. Why ruin the party over it? They would regroup and come up with a better strategy.

May decided to move the conversation along to something more pleasant for her friends. "So how have you been enjoying your birthday?"

The redhead nodded and gave them a big smile. "It's been such an amazing day actually."

"What did you do?" May asked.

"Well I had a picnic for lunch and then I spent the rest of the day at Professor Oak's lab with my new Pokémon." Misty pointed to the pendent that was around her neck.

"You got a new Pokémon?!" Dawn exclaimed. "What did you get!?"

"An Eevee."

"Let us see!" Dawn demanded, just as eager to see.

"Okay." Misty took the pokéball off her necklace and held it out toward the table, releasing the little Pokémon. After being released she let out a little yawn.

Dawn quickly scooped up Eevee and looked her over. "Aww she is so cute Misty!"

"She is!" May agreed. "But where did you find one? Aren't they hard to find in Kanto?"

"They are but Ash managed to find one for me." She saw Eevee struggle to get out of the strangers grasp so she held out her arms for her. "She was my birthday present from him."

Smirking, Dawn asked, "Wait, so you are telling us that Ash gave you a Pokémon?"

"Yeah, what's the big deal?" Misty raised a suspicious eyebrow at the younger coordinator.

"So the guy that has been completely and totally obsessed with Pokémon since the day he was born, decided to give you a Pokémon?" They all burst into a fit laughter.

"Alright, alright," Misty put a hand up to both the girls, "I suppose I should have seen it coming but I really didn't expect it. My team is at the gym and I'm not a trainer anymore."

They stopped laughing and Dawn said, "But it was really sweet of him to go to such lengths to get you that specific Pokémon." She noticed that Eevee was batting at her pokéball around Misty's neck. The necklace was beautiful. A smirk crossed her face when she asked, "Was the necklace part of the gift to?"

"Yeah.." She attempted to make up an excuse to avoid this line of questioning. "But he just thought it would be easier for me to carry her pokéball around."

"I think he is trying to impress you." May responded in a playful tone.

"I suppose but-" Misty was cut off before she could defend herself.

"No buts Misty." May said as she waved a finger in her friends face. "You can't deny that this gift is bigger than something a friend would give a friend."

Pushing May's finger away, Misty said, "Alright so even if he is giving me all this stuff because of the reasons you say, doesn't mean anything is going to happen. Or that he actually likes me like that."

"Is that why I just caught him staring at you from over there?" May pointed to Ash, who was now looking into the night sky.

She tried to shrug it off. "He does that sometimes…"

"Does he always have that goofy smile on his face?" May asked.

"Doesn't he always have a goofy smile?" Dawn asked, trying to recall a moment that he didn't.

May shook her head, "Well yes Dawn, but this one was different. He looked extra goofy, with this extra sparkle in his eye." Turning back to the redhead, May demanded, "So does he Misty?"

Misty looked down, avoiding their gaze and trying to hide her faint blush. "Yeah… But even if all this is true doesn't mean anything is going to happen," Misty repeated herself again.

"Why?" May placed a comforting hand on Misty's shoulder. "You know you can tell us anything. We just want to help."

Misty let out a little sigh. "I don't know." She was trying to avoid the inevitable. She looked at the three girls questioning her and realized there was no way around it. She didn't have anyone to talk to about this, about her conflicted feelings towards her best friend. Maybe talking about it would help her figure out what she wanted to do. Taking a deep breathe, Misty decided to confide in the two girls staring at her. "There is just something holding me back." She thought about all the close encounters she had been having lately. They felt right and wrong at the same time. Just when she got comfortable this strange feeling in her chest made her pull away. "I guess I'm just scared."

In a concerned tone, May asked, "Scared of what? It's just Ash."

"That's exactly it. It's Ash. We were so close before and then we got into that fight. I was so hurt by what he said. I never thought he would say something so mean to me. What if something happens again that ruins us for good this time? He's my best friend. I don't think I could stand to lose him again." Misty sighed as she stroked the now sleeping Pokémon in her arms.

Dawn answered Misty's question in a matter of fact tone. "Then don't let him get away."

Misty shook her head. "I don't know if I could do that. If we decide to make this something more, and it didn't work out, I don't know if we would be able to get over it or go back to the way things are now."

May put a comforting hand on her friends shoulder. "But you'll never know if you don't try Misty."

"You're right May. I will never know. I don't want to ruin this but I also don't want to give up something that might be amazing." Misty was shaking her head slightly, confused about what she should do.

Jumping up, the navy haired trainer asked, "Does that mean you are going to go for it?!"

Laughing at her young enthusiasm, Misty said, "It means I'll give it some serious consideration."

"We'll take it!" The duo chirped together.

Laughing, Misty said, "You know this really helped me out. I haven't had anyone to talk to about this. I really missed talking to you guys."

"We missed you too," They both leaned in to give Misty a hug but it disturbed Eevee from her nap. She jumped out of her masters arms. She looked around the yard and ran toward the only person she recognized.

"Eevee, where are you going?" Misty let go of the girls and followed after the Pokémon. She smirked when she saw who she was going to.

Eevee ran across the yard straight for Ash. She jumped right into his lap and he let out a playful "Oof!" He looked down to see her excited face and chuckled lightly. "Hey there, did you have a good rest?"

"Vee!" She responded cheerfully.

He began to stroke her fur and asked. "I'm glad, but where is your mommy?"

"Right here." Ash looked up to see the owner of the voice. She sat down next to him and Eevee happily jumped into her lap.

"What are you doing over here?" He prayed May didn't tell her he was staring. Hoping to avoid the topic, he continued, "You should be spending time with everyone."

She waved him off. "I needed a break. Too much girl-talk for one night. They said they are staying overnight so that probably means they'll be up all night catching up anyway." Misty knew how much the two girls could talk. One time they were so concerned with catching up they didn't even realize the sun had come up.

Ash knew exactly what the tomboy meant. "I see." He smiled. Thankful he had gotten away with his staring, this time anyway. Misty had called him out on it a few times but always in a playful manner.

Misty elbowed him lightly and asked, "So what were you thinking about?"

"What do you mean?"

"The stars." She pointed up. "You always look at the stars when you have something on your mind. So what was it?"

He wanted to tell her that she was the topic of his thoughts but instead said, "Just thinking about work. I'm going to have a lot to catch up on when I go back."

Misty could tell that he was lying. He was a terrible liar. She let it go and tilted her head back to admire the sky. "The stars just aren't as bright as they were when we were growing up."

Joining her gaze he reminded her, "That's because we were always on the road. There was nothing to drown them out."

Nodding she remember, "That's right. I could barely see them living in Cerulean. I remember being out on my own for the first time. I would stare at the stars for hours."

They remained silent for a few minutes until Ash decide to speak. "Mom really went all out getting everyone here for your party."

Misty nodded. "She really did. I was so surprised to see them here."

"Me too." Ash raised his arms and put his hands behind his head. "I guess it was the perfect ending for today, right?"

"Actually no." Ash looked at Misty with concern. He thought that maybe she really wasn't thrilled about all the attention she was getting. It was a daring move but in a split second decision she went for it. She leaned toward him so that she was resting against his side. "This is."

He was shocked by the move. Looking down he saw how perfect the sight was, her snuggling up to him. Maybe Brock was right. It was Ash's turn to decide what he was going to do. He figured it was his perfect chance. He lowered his arm over her shoulder and could feel her relax under his arm. Her head resting back against his shoulder.

Misty snuggled in a little more, loving the feeling of his arm around her. She was enjoying him next to her. It felt so right to have him around her. This wasn't the first time they sat closely like this but those times seemed like an eternity ago. His head gently came down to lean against hers and she let put a content sigh. They stayed like this for a few minutes, just enjoying each other's touch. Suddenly Misty felt tightness in her chest. It gripped her suddenly and she let out a small grunt. It wasn't the same warm feeling she was feeling a few minutes ago. She stiffened and pulled away suddenly.

Ash retracted his arm, hurt evident on his face, and asked, "Is something wrong?"

Misty avoided his eyes. "No nothing's wrong... It's just…" She stood up and saw Delia coming out of the house. Deciding it was best to change the subject quickly Misty pointed, "Look! Your mom's bringing out the cake! Let's go get some."

He watched her walk away from him rather quickly. "Sure." Ash wasn't sure what had happened. They seemed to be enjoying each other's company but something changed and he wasn't sure what it was.

Ash followed behind her all the way up to the porch. Brock looked between the two and could tell there was something going on. He noticed Ash was looking at her with concern in his eyes but she refused to look in his direction. He made a mental note to ask about it later while he took Misty and sat her down in front of the cake. It looked just like the one from early but much bigger. Everyone sang to her and she brightened up a little. She smiled and blew out her candles.

May came over to grab a piece of the cake. "So what did you wish for Misty?"

Shaking her head, she teased, "I can't say May. Otherwise it won't come true."

Dawn looked to May and joked, "I bet I know what she wished for."

Winking at the bluenette, she corrected, "Don't you mean who?"

The two were met by the extremely vicious glare from the redhead and they backed away slowly, laughing nervously.

The group all sat chatting contently, well, all except Ash and Misty. The two sat at opposite ends of the table, way to focused on the cake in front of them. Misty cursed herself inside her head for ruining such a perfect moment. Ash, on the other hand, wondered what he did to make her jump up so suddenly. They were both broken out of their thoughts when a fight broke out at the other end of the porch and they finally both looked up.

"You couldn't be anymore wrong." Max stated, rolling his eyes.

"Are you crazy!?" Dawn accused him. "How could you even think that?"

Smiling smugly he stated, "Because I know everything there is to know on the subject."

It was her turn to roll her eyes and she sarcastically responded, "Watch out. I don't think your head could get any bigger."

"What are you two arguing about this time?" Brock stepped between the two.

Pointing a finger at her rival, she stated, "Max said that competitive battling takes more skill than contest battling."

"Because it does." Waving his hands in the air he continued, "Anyone can come up with a few twinkly moves. But it takes a real genius to come up with complicated battle strategy."

She rolled her eyes again. "Oh come on. It can't be that hard. All you have to do is dodge a couple moves."

Max crossed his arms and decided there was only one way to find out. "If you think it's so easy then why don't we just have a battle?"

She mirrored him and said, "You're on. Is a one on one okay?"

"Too easy. Let's do a three on three."

"Fine by me. Let's do this."

Brock stepped between the two one more time and brought up a good point. "Hold on guys. It's way too late to battle tonight. Can't it wait until morning?"

Relaxing his body Max agreed. "I suppose."

"Yeah he'll need the night to think up some complicated battle strategies." Dawn growled.

Max scoffed at her response and walked over to Ash to ask, "Can you help me, Ash? Maybe give me some tips?"

He wasn't totally sure if he wanted to get into the middle of someone else's fight. On the other hand, the offer to be a part of a battle was really tempting. "Sure we can work on some stuff in the morning."

"That's not fair!" Dawn protested. "He's the Champion! You can't ask him for help!"

"Sure it's fair. You never said I couldn't," Max stated in a matter of fact tone.

"Fine if that's how you are going to play this," Dawn stomped, "then I'm going to ask for help too!"

Max had her cornered. "Oh yeah? Who else are you going to ask? No one else here is a battle specialist."

Dawn looked throughout the group and indeed no one else there still battled. Everyone else was either a coordinator or was a breeder or a researcher or something other than someone who could help her. Then she remembered that Misty used to be a gym leader.

Pointing a finger at a shocked redhead, she announced, "I'll have Misty help me!"

"You will?" Ash and Misty asked simultaneously.

Misty walked over to her friend and said, "Dawn I don't think this is such a good idea."

Trying to support her, Ash added, "Yeah, do you really think it is such a good idea to get battle advice from Misty?"

Misty felt a little insulted. The former gym leader just thought it was a bad idea since she was trying to get away from the trainer life. She narrowed her eyes at Ash and questioned, "Wait, why do you say that exactly?"

Ash didn't want any old feeling about battling to haunt his friend. Still not realizing what he was getting into, he dug himself even deeper when he said, "Well you haven't battled in years."

Standing firm with her line of questioning, Misty crossed her arms and accused, "And you think that makes me a bad choice to help Dawn battle. I was a gym leader for eight years! And a damn good one at that! If anyone is a bad choice to help it'd be you!"

It was Ash's turn to be insulted. "I'm the Kanto Champion. I'm the perfect teacher."

Misty stormed, "Yeah, if Max wants help getting his head any bigger!"

Ash stood his ground, "I guess we'll just see who the better battler is tomorrow."

"I guess we will." Misty turned and locked arm with Dawns, who seemed a little confused as to what just took place. "Come on let's get started."

Ash turned and grabbed Max, who was just as confused, by the arm and pulled him away. "Come on Max. Let's talk strategy."

May looked over to Brock and asked, "This is going to be bad isn't it Brock?"

"You have absolutely no idea."

The next day the group of friends found themselves eating a breakfast at a clearly divided table. Max and Ash sat at one end and Misty and Dawn sat at the other, avoiding eye contact. Drew and Brock sat across from each other in the middle of the table.

Uncomfortable with the awkward silence at the table, Brock looked up to Drew and asked, "May still isn't up yet?"

Shaking his head slightly, "No, she usually sleeps late. I'm guessing that she's a little tired from the travel here."

Referring to the tension in the room Brock mumbled, "Lucky her."

Finishing up her breakfast Misty got up and said, "Come on Dawn we should start working on those strategies."

Not wanting to fall behind, Ash got up too. "Max let's get going too. The professor said that we can practice there."

Before both groups could get too far, Brock said, "I think one of us should go with each of them. Just to make sure they don't go too crazy."

"I suppose." Pushing his hair back, Drew continued, "You can go with Ash though. I don't think I'll be able to handle so much arrogance in one morning."

"Mmmhmm. Let's gather them up at two for the battle. That gives them a decent 4 to 5 hours to work on everything we won't miss dinner." Brock suggested.

"Alright. See you then."

Drew went to follow after the girls and Brock went to tend to the dishes. Shortly after he started, May made her way into the kitchen. May was still in her pajamas.

Brock chuckled at the sight of his sleepy-eyed friend. He nudged her gently and said, "Good morning, May."

May mumbled in response that he couldn't make out.

He laughed again at her mumbled response, "Still not a morning person I see."

"You can say that again." May placed her head on the table.

"Same old same old." Brock remembered the old times as he placed a plate of food in front of her.

Lifting her head at the smell of the delicious food in front of her, "I forgot how good your cooking is! I'm glad I woke up now!" She took a few bites of her food and looked over at Brock. He was sipping his coffee and reading the paper. "Hey Brock, where is everyone?"

Without taking his eyes off the paper he answered, "They started their training. Ash and Max went to the Professor's. I'm not sure where the girls went though. Drew went with them."

May sleepily nodded as she continued with her food. "I guess I'll go support my fellow female trainers. Suddenly Brock noticed something different about her. He was always good about noticing subtle differences. He suddenly realized what it was and almost couldn't believe it. Actually, he couldn't believe no one said anything all night. "May, what's that on your hand?"

Her eyes shot open at his question. May pulled her hand under the table and said, "Nothing." She had done such a good job at hiding it last night. Her glove did most of the work actually. She forgot to get dressed this morning before coming downstairs though.

Brock walked over to her and demanded, "That's not nothing! That's a ring! Drew Proposed to you?!" He was still trying to get her hand out from under the table.

Shaking her head furiously she denied, "No he didn't!"

Narrowing his eyes, Brock warned, "May.. If you don't tell me I'll just go ask him myself."

"Alright fine, he proposed," May hung her head in defeat while holding up her left hand. "But you can't say anything! We wanted to wait until tonight to say something because we didn't want to ruin Misty's birthday."

"May that's so exciting!" Brock beamed at the brunette he had become so close with. "Congratulations!"

"Thanks." May blushed as he fawned over her. "But please Brock. Please don't say anything. We want to tell everyone together."

"Don't worry your secret is safe with me."

May thanked her friend and finished the last few bites of breakfast. "Well we better get going." The coordinator stood and brought her dish to the sink.

"Do you want some help finding the girls and Drew?" Brock asked as he finished the last few sips of his coffee.

"I'm sure. They couldn't have gotten far." May waved him off. "Plus between the mouths on Dawn and Misty I'm sure I'll be able to hear them before I find them."

Brock began his trek to the professor's lab. He used this time to himself to think about who was going to win. He knew that both Max and Dawn where at the top of their game in their respective specialties. But this match was going to be played out in Max's favor. Dawn didn't have much experience in competitive battling. Plus Max had Ash to train him. Kanto's very own Pokémon Master. Dawn was in a rough spot. But she also had Misty. Sure it had been years since he had seen the water-trainer battle but she was one of the best gym leaders in Kanto. Brock hoped that Misty's heart was still in it though. After everything that had happened to her, losing her Pokémon, and not battling in years it might be too much for her. Misty was a fighter though. He was worried but he knew Misty would never give up. Especially when she was up against Ash.

Whoever won this battle would have permanent bragging rights. Brock couldn't decide who he wanted to win because the Pokémon Master and the feisty redhead would never let the other live it down.

Brock entered the side gate to the fields behind the lab where he heard voices. He saw the boys and walked over to them. "Hey guys. What are you up to?" Ash and Max were sitting across from each other examining something very carefully that was between them.

"Hey." Ash looked up from the pokéballs that lay between him and Max. "Right now we are trying to figure out which of Max's Pokémon he should use in the battle today."

"That's a good start." Brock nodded and looked over the pokéballs too. "Who do you have with you today?"

"I have Gallade, Larion, Remoraid, Scizor, Vigoroth, and Arcanine." Max pointed to a different pokéball and named the occupants.

"That's a really powerful team. Do you know what Dawn has?" Brock knew the two younger Pokémon owners were very close. They have been traveling together for a while now and Max probably knew exactly who Dawn had with her.

Putting a finger to his chin, Max thought carefully about whom Dawn had with her. "She has Togekiss, Empoleon, Mamoswine, Quilava, Lopunny, and she just caught an Oddish."

Brock thought about the team at Dawns disposal. "Well I think we can rule out the Oddish. But that still leaves her with a strong team."

Ash nodded in agreement. "I think a safe bet would be to go with Gallade, Arcanine, and Scizor. Those seem to be your strongest."

"I think Larion would be better instead of Scizor. If Dawn decides to use Mamoswine, then I am going to need some power to defeat him."

"But what if she uses Togekiss? Then you would want to have a Pokémon that fly's. Plus Scizor has speed. That is going to come in handy." Ash reminded the younger trainer that brute strength wasn't always the best option.

Max took in as much information as he could from the experienced trainer. "But Arcanine has speed too. So Larion could still be a part of the team."

"True but if Dawn uses her Quilava your Larion will be at a huge disadvantage. Using Arcanine is smarter because even if Dawn uses her Empoleon, the steal type will be at a disadvantage." Ash continued to teach the younger trainer about the importance of matching duel types and using them to your own advantage. "I can guarantee you that Dawn will be using Empoleon and Togekiss. Not only is he probably Dawn strongest but Misty will probably be eager to use a water-type again and Misty used to have a Togetic."

Brock nodded in agreement. "Ash is right Max. This team will give you the best odds at beating Dawn with whatever she chooses."

Ash gave a cheeky smile to the older male, "Well they don't call me Master for nothing!"

Brock leaned close to Max and whispered so Ash couldn't hear. "They don't say he has a big head for nothing too." Max began to laugh loudly. confusing the Pokemon Master.

The girls and Drew walked down to a small field Misty knew that Ash usually used to train in when his mother didn't want her house blown up by an attack... again. Drew decided to take a back seat to the lessons and observe from a distance.

Misty stood in front of the younger girl and began her lessons. "Alright so first things first, we want to work on type disadvantages."

Dawn gave the experiences trainer a confused look. "Shouldn't we work on type match ups first?"

"Not necessarily." Misty shook her head. "Knowing Ash, that's what he is going to start with. He is going to make sure Max is going to use Pokémon that are strong against yours. We want to make sure that no matter what Pokémon you go up against, even if it's strong against yours, that you have a defense to back it up. We want to make sure the Pokémon you choose are strong even against their type disadvantage."

"That's such a good idea!" Dawn cheered the older trainer on.

"Thanks. Being a type-specific gym leader taught me that. All my challenger came in with electric or grass type so I needed to have a strategy to beat them."

"Well it sounds like a good plan." Dawn gave her partner a questioning glance. "How are we going to do that though?"

"I'll show you." Misty waved a hand out toward the clearing. "Call out your Pokémon."

Dawn called for all of her Pokémon, aside from Oddish, and explained, "Alright. We have an important battle today." Seeing the confused expression on their faces she continued with, "I know we don't participate in these kinds of battles but I made a bet with Max and we need to show him that we are just as tough as he is!" All of her Pokémon cheered and Misty could see how determined they were to stick up for their trainer.

Misty looked over what she had to work with and asked Dawn what they were up against. "You have a really good team Dawn. This is going to go better than I thought. Who do you think we should use." Misty knew Dawn would know who her strongest and most valuable fighters were.

Dawn looked over the group carefully. "I think a good team would be Empoleon, Togekiss and Mamoswine."

Misty scrunched up her nose. "They are some strong Pokémon but I'm not sure about Empoleon."

"Why not?" Dawn frowned. She knew Empoleon was her strongest Pokémon. "He would be great against Max's Arcanine."

"Yes." Misty agreed that Dawn Empoleon was strong and she desperately wanted to work with the water type." But Empoleon is part steel-type. That leaves him at a huge disadvantage to fire-types. If you combine that with Arcanine's speed then Empoleon is a sitting Psyduck."

"I never thought about it that way." Dawn shook her head at the thought. "I guess we shouldn't use Empoleon. I think Quilava is a good choice though. I doubt Max will try to use Remoraid. He's been trying to evolve him for ages with no luck."

Misty agreed. "But Larion could be a threat since he is part rock-type. Although, they should be equally matched since Larion is also steel-type."

"Hey guys I finally found you! I hope I didn't miss too much!" May waved as she ran toward the girls and her secret fiancé. Drew seemed to perk up at the sight of his loved one, obviously bored with all the battle talk.

Misty waved the brunette over. "We were just trying to figure out what Pokémon to use in Dawn and Max's battle."

May thought for a moment. She knew her brother could be a little predictable at times. "I think that Max is almost guaranteed to use his Gallade."

Misty nodded, knowing that Gallade was Max's favorite. "Okay so he would be strong against your Togekiss and Lopunny. Even your Mamoswine is at a disadvantage."

Dawn perked up as a thought came to her mind. "I should ask if Professor Oak can transfer my Altaria back to me from Professor Rowan. When I caught Oddish I had to send Altaria to the lab."

Misty was excited by the suggestion. Altaria are very strong and the fact that it was a flying-type was also helpful. "That's a great idea Dawn! Not only is she very power full, but she will be able to do some damage to Gallade without much of a disadvantage. I hope we can get her in time."

May jumped up and held out a hand. "Give me Oddish and I'll go ask Professor Oak to do the transfer before it gets too late." She waved a hand and Drew went running after her to keep her company.

Dawn thought a moment about how she could use Altaria and suggested, "Plus if Max uses Scizor, Altaria will be stronger and be able to keep up with him in the air."

"Now you are getting the idea! So now we have Altaria and Quilava. One more." Misty tapped a finger to her chin.

"I think out of the rest Mamoswine is the best choice," Dawn suggested her heavy-weight Pokémon one more time. "He could be at a type disadvantage but he has the strongest defense out of the rest. Even if he is at a type disadvantage, he will be hard to take down."

Misty nodded knowing the coordinator was right. "That's probably our best option Dawn."

"YAY! We have our team!" Dawn turned toward the team member that wouldn't be participating, "Sorry you won't be able to battle guys but you can still be there to cheer us on! We are still in this together!" The Pokémon cheered for their master.

Misty missed that feeling. She missed being that close with her Pokémon and working together. She held a hand up to her chest where her newest Pokémon rested in her pokéball. She shook her head to clear her dreary thoughts and decided to focus on the task at hand. "Okay now let's start with some strategies and training. We can use your others to help train the ones you are going to use."

Misty stood up to the clearing and called over Empoleon and Quilava. "Here is one of my favorites. This move helps defer strong attacks using a different attack that might be stronger. Plus it confuses the opponent. Alright. Now, Empoleon, I want you to use Bubblebeam on Quilava."

The water-type gave the unfamiliar trainer a concerned look. He didn't want to hurt his friend. Dawn notice this and gave some encouraging words. "Go on Empoleon. Misty knows what she's doing."

The giant penguin Pokémon nodded and unleashed the Bubblebeam directly at Quilava.

Quickly Misty called, "Flame wheel Quilava!"

Quilava acted fast after hearing its command. The fire on his neck began to grow and the fire enclosed his entire body. Running toward his opponent, the two moves collided with a harsh crash. The Bubblebeam didn't have a chance to hit the target because as each bubble hit, the fire stood strong. The fire-type was completely protected by the shield he created. Both moves died down and both Pokémon came out unscathed.

The coordinators jaw dropped at how well the defense worked. "That was incredible Misty! I never thought a move like flame wheel could keep up against a water type move! I would have just told Quilava to dodge it!"

"See what I mean. As long as you can keep a good defense, nothing can stop you! This way the opponent is caught off guard and you can go in for an attack right away while they are still trying to figure out what went wrong."

Dawn looked off into the distance thinking. "I have to remember that for contests! The opponent would lose so many points since the move didn't land!"

"But this isn't a contest battle." Misty snapped the distracted girl back into the present. "You don't have a timer or a point limit. You have to fight as hard as you can to defeat your opponent and it doesn't matter how pretty the move is. The only things that matter are how strong your Pokémon is and the strength of your defense."

Dawn slumped over at the thought. "This is going to be harder than I thought..."

"You'll be fine Dawn." Misty reassured the younger girl. She couldn't have Dawn wimping out on her now. This battle was going to reflect her abilities just as much Dawns. "You have a strong team. I think you have a serious shot at this battle."

Dawn perked up at the redheads encouraging words. "You really think so?"

"Of course! You've pulled through tougher situations before."

Dawn stood more confidently and cheered, "Then let's do this. Alright guys, let's get training! What's next Misty?"

"That depends." Misty flashed the younger girl a mischievous smirk. "How sneaky do you want to be?"

Hmmmmmm What is Miss Misty planning? You'll just have to wait until the next chapter to find out! Don't worry I won't make you wait that long... Hopefully...

I hope you enjoyed! Please leave me a review of what you thought!

Until next time!

Up next is the big battle! Who do you think is going to win? Strong offence or a strong defense?