Endings and New Beginnings
Chapter
4: Menace
Ash stretched leisurely, yawning. “Good work Bayleef, you deserve a rest. Why don’t you head back to the lab?” The pokemon took off running, then stopped, turning to look at him.
“Bay, Bay!” It called.
Ash laughed lightly, “I’m coming don’t worry. I just want to let Charizard and Pidgeot have a good stretch.” Ash loved the lab. He could interact with all his pokemon at once, not having to worry about the six pokemon rule. It was great, it almost felt like a reunion.
“Pikapikachu.” Pikachu ran by, its ears twitching. Ash laughed. “I’ll catch up.” He hadn’t seen much of Pikachu recently. It was probably good for the little rodent to have some Pokemon companionship for once.
Promising Charizard and Pidgeot that he would bring them a treat later he left them to their own devices and headed back toward the lab. As he neared one of the outbuildings (some sort of shed or shelter he guessed) a flash of movement caught his eye. Slowing he crept over to the bushes, peering over them. Sure enough, a human form moved out from behind the building. Ash caught a brief glimpse of the man’s face as he turned to leave. Ash caught his breath, he knew that face- it was Seth.
Seth had been a participant in the Behrin league and then in Shanti as well. The man had been a sore loser, and a vicious opponent. Ash wasn’t at all certain he treated his pokemon well. What was Seth doing in Indigo? Bits of Misty’s and the others’ letters concerning the Indigo League Menace floated through his head, bouncing against memories of his own encounters with Seth. What was it Misty had said in Cerulean? The ILM seemed to have it out for him personally…
He stood and jogged toward the house. Hopefully the others would be busy, he needed some time to think.
***
“What’s wrong Ash?” Ash looked up to find May standing in the doorway. For the first time in a long time he was glad she was there. She seemed to have returned to her old self in the last few days, in fact it had been just after her fist fight with Misty that he had noticed the change. The real reason he was glad to see her though was that she already knew about Seth. He didn’t have to protect her from the truth. Maybe he should bring it up…
May stood studying his face, she’d finally been
able to dodge Gary and Richie. Not
that she minded their company,
He just nodded. She placed a hand on his arm.
“You don’t think-?” she left the question unfinished, but he knew what she meant. He hung his head wearily.
“I don’t know.”
“It’s not as though he hasn’t done something like this before.” She reminded him. Seth had plagued them through most of Behrin and had followed them to Shanti.
“I know, but…” he rested his head in his hands, his words muffled against them, “I just can’t understand why he would do all this. I mean, it’s such a lot of trouble.”
May struggled to put her thoughts into words. “I know this sounds strange, and I know it will be difficult for you to accept, but I don’t think there’s a good, logical reason. Maybe he’s just plain mad.”
“I guess that’s possible, but at what? I’ve never done anything to hurt him-”
“Ash,” May rested a hand lightly on his shoulder, “I don’t think you did anything, at least not anything most people would take offense at. I get the impression Seth’s a little off, you know.”
Ash shuddered at the thought of a psycho coming after his friends and family, he looked up, a new worry in his eyes, “What I want to know is what he was doing here today.”
“Let’s hope nothing, he was probably just looking around. We’ll watch for him though.”
Ash managed to muster a small smile, she was probably right. After all he’d been here over a month and neither Seth nor the ILM (were they one and the same?) had bothered any of them. He squeezed her hand lightly, “Thanks May. And I’d really appreciate it if you wouldn’t mention this to anyone else just yet.”
May shook her head, “My lips are sealed.”
The two stopped as the ground moved under their feet ever so slightly.
Ash jumped to his feet, “Did you feel that?”
Wide-eyed, May nodded. Now a low rumble accompanied the shaking. Straining her ears May thought she heard voices. “Ash? Do you hear-”
“Tauros!” he cut her off, eyes narrowed as he listened. “Those are Tauros, I can hear them bellowing.” Now his eyes snapped wide open. “It’s a stampede!” he ran outside, “Stay here!” he yelled back over his shoulder. “Oh, and keep Pikachu inside!” A stampede was no place for May and her cute pokemon, or for his small friend either.
“
Bolting outside he halted in his tracks a moment later. To his left he could see a cloud of dust, thick and large. The sounds were definitely coming from that direction. The stampede was huge, but it wasn’t coming from inside the pokecorral where the Tauros stayed. How had they gotten loose, and what had gotten them so riled up?
Now Gary, Richie, and the others came running.
“What is it!?” Brock yelled over the noise.
“Stampede!” Ash yelled back.
“Aw-”
“Watch your mouth young man.” Delia came up beside them, reprimanding Gary, who had clearly been about to curse.
“Mom! Get inside!” Ash gave her a gentle shove toward the house. Professor Oak ran up and led her away.
“Can you boys handle this!?” He called to them.
Ash nodded, reassuring the Professor, then watched as the man led his mother into the house. In truth, he had no idea what they were going to do.
“What do we do?” Tracey struggled to be heard above the noise. “Think we can head them off?”
“They’re too angry to call into their pokeballs, even if we were fast enough to get them all before they reach the house.” Brock ruled out the most obvious option.
“What do you think Ash?” Richie said calmly (or as calmly as one can sound shouting over a herd of stampeding Tauros.)
“Yeah, those monsters are almost all yours.”
“Thanks for the reminder.” Ash closed his eyes, blocking out the noise and forcing himself to think. “What if we built a run back into the corral. We could use our rock and fighting pokemon to build the sides, then our larger, faster pokemon, like Ponyta and Bayleef to herd them into it and along it.”
“That’s assuming the corral is still intact. We still don’t know how they got out in the first place.” Brock pointed out.
“It’s a good idea though.” Richie put in.
Ash drew in a deep breath, “Tracey, you take Bulbasuar and some of the other pokemon that can use vinewhip and go to the corral.” It was too bad James and Jesse had gone into town today, they could have really used that Victrebel, “See if you can fix it before we get there.” Tracey took off running, “And reinforce the undamaged walls too, I’m not sure how calm those Tauros will be when they get there!” Ash called after him. Tracey threw a wave to acknowledge him.
“The rest of us will start building the run.
Brock, take Onix and Geodude and start just past that ridge.
“What about me?” Ash turned to see a determined Misty.
“Misty,” his heart clenched at the thought of her out there among the Tauros, but he knew she wouldn’t sit this one out. Could he find something she could do inside? “Can you find Charizard and Pidgeot, I let them out in the north field this morning, they said they would be there all day. Then send them to help us herd.” Misty nodded and took off at a dead run.
Ash could see that Brock and his pokemon had a good start on the run.
And
Two hours later the Tauros had finally calmed enough for them to investigate. Tracey hadn’t repaired the broken fence and it was clear why. It was missing, incinerated, they were lucky they hadn’t lost the whole thing. Tracey had placed Ash’s Snorlax (who had slept through it all) in the gaping whole, and braced the rest of the fences using pokemon, logs, and rocks.
“I don’t get it. It’s a perfectly symmetrical hole.” Brock scratched the back of his neck.
Tracey shook his head. “I’ve been tying to figure it out since I got over here. I can’t think of anything natural that could have done that.”
Ash leaned closer to look at the fence. A piece of metal a few feet away caught his eye. Walking over to it he picked it up and turned it over, then clenched his fist around it.
“What is it?” Richie peered over his shoulder. Ash opened his hand and Richie gasped. “That’s a piece of an explosive.” Ash nodded.
“Why would someone want to incinerate part of Gramps corral?”
***
Ash was wandering along the lake. The others had excused him from helping with the rebuilding because his quick thinking had saved the lab. He almost wished he had stayed to help- it might have kept his mind off Seth. But perhaps it was better this way. The others had no idea what was going on, and he didn’t want them to know he was worried. Maybe he and May shouldn’t have been discussing Seth in the house earlier… May - he didn’t want her to worry either.
He was worried though, very worried. Seth was dangerous, this he knew from experience, but to do something like this… Was the man mad? Ash was also confused, why had Seth followed him here from Shanti? Was he the one had threatened his friends, and almost destroyed the league, while Ash had been away this past year? If so, why? The question reverberated in his mind, begging release.
“Why are you doing this!?” he shouted in frustration.
“Why’s who doing what?” A femine voice queried.
Ash whirled around, almost falling in his shock induced haste. “Misty!” Uh oh, this probably wasn’t good. He couldn’t tell her, but how could he side step this.
She seemed to notice his discomfort, and she sighed. “It’s alright if you don’t want to tell me Ash.” She smiled, “but judging from what I just heard you need to spill to someone.” She tried to sound light, but she was concerned. She bit a corner of her lip, her eyes filled with questions.
After all they’d been through together what was so bad that he felt he couldn’t tell her? They’d been through Team Rocket attacks, fire fights, heck, they’d saved the world together MORE THAN ONCE!
Ash studied her, considering. He couldn’t tell her what was wrong, but it really was sweet of her to ask. “Hey, Misty.” Her thoughts were jerked back to the present by his gentle call. She looked up at him. “Thanks for coming after me. Thanks for,” he stopped, searching, then shrugged, “for just being there.”
So he wasn’t going to answer her, but this was almost as good, “I always will be you know.” She said softly. He looked back at her, startled. Impulsively she kissed his cheek then she ran, fast. She didn’t want to see the look on his face, she was sure it’d be one of disgust. <Stupid, stupid Misty> she berated herself. Why had she done that? Now he would know.
Ash didn’t followed her, he was glad Misty had left quickly, at least she didn’t see the blush of pleasure creeping over his face and the look of longing he knew was in his eyes. Why had she done that? He knew it hadn’t meant nearly as much to her as it had to him. She had just been trying to comfort him. But he wished it had meant something. He wished he could have told her what was going on.
“Happy, firespin!” Richie’s voice cut through the stillness of the afternoon.
“Dodge it Crocanaw. Now use hydropump.” Ash’s feet were planted firmly apart, he was wearing his hat, backwards. (Apparently it was reserved for special occasions now. Which was probably wise – Man that thing was old!)
Most of the others sat watching Ash and Richie battle. Today the group included Misty, Brock, Tracey,
“What’s going on?” Jenny walked up behind them.
“Honey, I didn’t hear you!” Tracey was shocked. “Did you ride your cycle?” Jenny always rode her bike, and quite recklessly too.
“She wanted to.” Joy was dusting herself off as she walked up. Brock smiled at her then turned back to the match (he was the referee after all, he couldn’t be distracted). Joy smiled and continued, “But I wouldn’t let her. We took the Jeep. And I drove.” She smiled a little too sweetly at Jenny.
“Wimp.” Jenny muttered. She looked up at Tracey again, “So what’s going on?”
Tracey smiled, “Ash thought today would be a great time to get in some training. He’s already wiped the floor with the rest of us. Now Richie’s having his go.”
“My, he’s talented, isn’t he?” Joy remarked, eyes glued to the match, “Such an unconventional battling style.”
Gary
Delia patted his hand, “Now, now dear, not everyone can keep up with my Ash. He takes after his father.” She was practically glowing.
“Gee thanks Mrs. K.”
“I don’t know why he’d want to spend his free time battling anyway!” Jesse exclaimed a little too loudly.
Joy threw her an odd look, “She’s a little miffed because he beat her.” James whispered to her, “and she was so proud of that Zangoose too. It was a wedding present.” Joy nodded in understanding.
“Happy, NO!”
“Happy is unable to battle. Ash wins the match!” Brock called out.
“Again.”
Brock turned on him, “proper calling etiquette is very important in any match.” He informed the other man.
“Well, then someone should have called me.” A saccharine voice interposed.
Everyone exchanged dejected glances.
“Hello sis.”
“Hello
Ash stood from where he had been kneeling beside Croconaw, taking off his hat and folding it, he stuffed it in his pocket. “We were getting in some training while we waited for the barbeque to start.” He smiled.
“Speaking of which,” Professor Oak stood, “I should go check on that. Hello May,” he paused as he passed by his granddaughter, patting her arm lightly.
“Hello, grandfather. Did they tell you I came to see you a few weeks ago?”
“Oh yes.” He replied, clearly displeased at the reminder, “Very thoughtful of you dear.”
“Thoughtful my-”
“Jesse!” James admonished her, before she could say something rude.
“Oh, alright!” she groused, clearly unhappy. James merely smiled. It was taking some time, but slowly Jesse was changing.
“Good match Ash.” Richie offered him a hand. They clasped hands, then shared a one armed almost hug.
“You too.” Ash grinned as they pulled back. “I guess you can work in my gym.”
“Our
Gym!”
“Our gym.” He corrected himself. “Seems like our gym includes more and more people everyday.”
“That’s probably a good thing.” Joy pointed out.
“Absolutely,” Professor Oak had just returned from checking the grill, “it will give challengers experience with a variety of excellent techniques and pokemon. It will also help if any of you are ever called away on business.” He smiled, wiping his hands, “oh yes, and the food is ready.”
There was a general hustle and bustle and commotion as everyone gathered dishes, utensils, and food items for their meal. As they sat around the table Ash turned to Misty.
“Hey, Misty you wanna work in our gym?” he asked.
“We could really use a strong water trainer.” Richie piped in.
Misty looked up in surprise, clearly the thought had never entered into her head (well, maybe in her dreams and fantasies, but…) “I don’t know Ash.” She placed a piece of chicken on her plate. “I would have to check with my sisters. With me gone they would have to cut back their show schedule. They can’t very well train, battle, perform, and do paperwork.” She smiled, “but it would be fun to watch them try.”
“So you’ll think about it?” Ash asked, trying to restrain his eagerness.
“Sure.” She smiled at him. Ash turned to his food hoping to hide the goofy grin on his face. What if Misty stayed…
Ash paced nervously in front of his house. He glanced down at the note in his hand and wondered for the hundredth time if he should go.
He sighed, it was probably a trap, but could he afford not to go? He wanted to take someone else with him, but the only other person who knew about Seth was May and he wouldn’t endanger her like that. Maybe he should tell Richie…
But what if Richie got hurt? No, he wouldn’t put any of his friends in danger.
“Well, Pikachu, looks like it’s just you and me.”
“Pi…ka chu?” Pikachu didn’t look too happy about that prospect.
“I can’t involve any of them. I’d never forgive my self if one of them got hurt. This is my fight, not theirs.”
Pikachu shook its head sadly. Human beings could be so stubborn. Of course, that didn’t mean Pikachu was going to let its master go off alone. The yellow rodent quickly ran after Ash, jumping up onto the man’s head.
“Thanks buddy.” Ash reached up to rub Pikachu’s cheeks. As he walked Ash let his thoughts flow. It had been a few days since the stampede. He had truly hoped that would be the end. That Seth would disappear. Of course, he had no reason to believe that Seth would, he just hoped…
Soon they had reached the edge of the forest.
“Well, this is it pal.” Ash reached up for Pikachu again, and the little rodent wasn’t sure if Ash was trying to comfort it or himself. Just in case it rubbed its cheek against Ash’s hand.
“I wonder if he’ll show.”
The minutes ticked by, Ash looked at the note again. It was the right time, Seth was now ten minutes late. Pikachu stirred uneasily.
“Just a few more minutes, then we’ll go.” Ash didn’t want to go, he wanted to get to the bottom of this mystery. Would Seth tell him if he asked? Did Seth even know? What did the man want?
“PIKA!!!” Pikachu’s loud call warned him just before a large branch fell. Ash barely managed to dodge it. Had that been an accident?
“Hello Ash.” Evidently not. Seth emerged from the brush. “Close call there.” He smiled.
“What do you want Seth?” Ash tried to keep his voice steady without sounding threatening. He didn’t want to anger Seth further.
Seth gave him a smile that held no warmth, “victory, power.” He stated coldly. “Isn’t that what everyone wants?”
Ash shook his head, “I don’t understand.”
“You never did.” Seth’s eyes narrowed. “Not even when you stripped me of my dignity. You fool!” he practically spat the last two words. “I don’t know why I waste my time.” With a flick of his wrist Seth released a pokemon from its ball. The creature had red glowing eyes, and wicked looking claws, it snarled at Ash.
“Veroslash, sic ‘em.” The creature lunged at Ash drawing one claw down his arm, leaving a deep, red gash. It pulled back then lunged again.
“PIKA CHUUUUUUUUUUUUUU!” The forest was filled with lighting as Pikachu aimed a vicious thunderbolt at Veroslash and Seth. Not even bothering to call back his pokemon Seth ran, Veroslash hot on his heels.
Ash sat up and weakly cradled his arm. The wound was really deep. Pikachu came over to him and licked his hand.
“I’m okay.” Ash tried to reassure his pokemon, but when he tried to stand he found he couldn’t. He had hurt his back when he had landed, and he felt so weak. Funny, it didn’t look as though he’d lost much blood.
“Pika, pika.” Pikachu was now very worried.
“Hey, it’s okay.” Ash weakly patted its head, “Why don’t you go get Richie for me.” Clearly uncertain Pikachu hesitated, “Go on,” Ash urged it, “the best thing for me will be to get back, and I need help. And don’t tell Misty!”
Pikachu took off running so fast Ash couldn’t even see it. Ash smiled, Pikachu was still the fastest pokemon he knew, and that thundershock hadn’t been bad either. He leaned back, closing his eyes. He should never have come out here.
***
“Ash. Come on Ash.” Slowly Ash opened his eyes and found himself looking directly into Richie’s worried gaze.
“Hey.”
Richie smiled just a little, “Hey yourself. You had us worried there for a minute.”
“Us.” Ash tried to sit up a little too quickly and sank back down with a groan.
“Easy there. You took a hard fall. And you lost some blood.” Brock told him.
“Brock?” Ash asked. “What are you doing here?”
“Pikachu came and got me and Richie; Gary and Tracey are distracting the girls.”
Ash looked over at Pikachu, “Traitor.” He said with a weak smile, “I told you to bring Richie.”
“You’re lucky he brought Brock too.” Richie told Ash. “I wasn’t quite sure what to do with you. But Brock says you’ll be fine.”
“Yeah?” Ash cocked his head, “I don’t feel fine.”
“You don’t have a concussion, or any broken bones.” Brock brought him some sort of tea, “I don’t even think that gash needs stitches, but I did clean it out. I’m surprised you didn’t wake up, but then, I think that gash may have had some sort of sedative in it.”
“Veroslash don’t produce poisons.” Ash closed his eyes, then accepted the cup from Brock, “He must have dipped his pokemon’s claws in poison.” Ash grimaced at the aftertaste of the tea.
“Bearla root.” Brock explained, “great for headaches, terrible aftertaste.” Ash nodded and drank a little more.
“A pokemon did that to you?” Richie let out a low whistle, “Who is he and what did you do to make him so mad that he’d want to poison you?”
“I don’t know.” Ash was starting to feel better as the tea took effect.
“You don’t know who it is?” Brock looked skeptical. “Well, he sure knows who you are.”
Ash shook his head, “I know who I just don’t know why.” He held a hand out to Richie who helped him stand. “Look, I’d just as soon only do this once. Let’s go back and find Tracey and Gary, then I’ll tell you. But please,” he shot them a beseeching look, “Don’t tell my mom or the Professor.” He looked at Brock, “And don’t tell Joy.”
Brock shook his head, “She’s gonna wonder about that gash.”
“Tell her I had an accident in the woods. It’s the truth.” Ash leaned on Richie for a moment, nearly toppling the smaller man at first, then he straightened and began walking toward the house.
***
“Let me get this straight,”
Ash nodded. “I just can’t figure it out. I only knew him through league battles. We met in the Behrin Championships.”
“And he set his pokemon on you, with poison no less.” Tracey shook his head, “that’s terrible.”
“You’re telling me.” Ash grimaced as he lightly touched his arm. He had managed to avoid the women when he entered the house, but eventually he would have to face them. Right now James was distracting them while he talked to the other guys. They hadn’t been disturbed – he’d have to thank the man later. James had been nothing but help since he had arrived, even if he was a bumbler at times – he had a good heart.
“Hey, um, wait… don’t you want to hear the rest!?” James’ worried voice wafted up the stairs followed by footsteps approaching Ash’s door.
“Uh, oh.” Richie muttered, “Looks like someone escaped.” When they had come upstairs they could hear James rambling about his family and the story of his and Jesse’s wedding. Apparently someone had lost interest.
It wouldn’t do any good to try and keep them out - that would only arouse suspicions - so, taking up casual poses and forcing smiles, the men waited. The knob turned and Misty entered.
“Hey Ash,” she stopped short, first surprise, at seeing all the men up in the room, then concern, as her eyes locked on Ash, flickered across her face.
There was a long scratch on his arm, and Misty just stared at it. The other men looked uneasily at one another and silently filed out of the room. Ash would have to handle this on his own.
Ash stared at Misty, uncertain how she would react, but determined to take it. He was both relieved the guys had left, and very worried – the absence of witnesses might be tempting to her.
She reached an arm toward his injury almost involuntarily, then her expression changed, “ASH KETCHUM YOU BIG DUMMY!!! What did you DO to yourself!? You are SUCH and idiot! And, and…” suddenly she broke down in tears. She turned away from him, then, when she felt him move closer behind her, she ran.
She ran all the way down the stairs and out of the house, barely able to see through her tears, to breathe through her sobs. When she reached the pond she stopped, sobbing uncontrollably. She hoped he would come after her, but prayed desperately he would not.
What had happened to him? How had he gotten that gash? Would he have told her? And most importantly, what would she do if anything ever happened to him?
“Misty,” a hand touched the small of her back. “I’m sorry Misty.” Ash’s other arm reached around to turn her toward him. Gently he pulled her into his arms and she cried against his chest. His hand stroked her hair softly as he whispered soothing words, and slowly she calmed. He sighed and his heart beat quickened. It felt so good, so right to hold her like this, to comfort her. And while he wanted her tears to dry and a smile to light her face he didn’t want this moment to end.
To be honest, he was surprised she had let him get this close. Surprised she had come so willingly into his arms. And surprised he had had the guts to initiate such a contact. She stirred in his arm and a sudden fear gripped him.
Sure, when she was falling apart she had leaned against him, but she had always done that when she was scared. Once he had been old enough to understand his feelings for her he had lived for the moments when a Weedle or Caterpie had sent her shrieking into his arms. Even when she couldn’t stand him she had relied on him. But as soon as the situation had passed she had been so angry with him. Would that be the case now?
He pulled back slightly, “Misty?” his voice was quiet, uncertain. She looked up at him, wide-eyed, but she didn’t appear angry. Drawing a deep breath he dared to brush the hair out of her eyes and saw something there he never expected. In that moment of vulnerability he saw fear, uncertainty, and… love.
He had never been so sure of anything in his life. Misty loved him. The very thought made his breath catch.
“Misty.” He repeated, barely speaking above a whisper. His eyes searched hers, he felt her breath on his face, it was shallow and fast. “Are you okay?” he rubbed her arms lightly.
She nodded, unable to speak, then slowly shook her head. “Oh, Ash.” She buried her head in his shoulder. She was so embarrassed, she knew what he had to have seen in her eyes, but she had been unable to fathom the look in his own. “I’m sorry.” She breathed, so low he could barely hear her.
“For what?” he pressed a kiss in her hair. She jerked her head back, nearly nailing his chin.
“Ash?” she seemed so uncertain. He smiled, served her right after all the years she’d kept him on pins and needles.
“Misty.” He said calmly.
She started to look away again, but he caught her chin lightly, forcing her eyes back to his. He hesitated for a moment. He knew she loved him, but he was still unsure how she would react if he made an advance. Steeling himself he decided it was worth the risk. He lowered his head, pressing a light kiss to her lips. If that ruined what they had, he’d just have to live with the consequences.
He pulled back anxiously. Her eyes were still closed, and a small smile formed on her lips.
“Please don’t let me wake up.” She whispered to no one in particular.
“Misty.” He caressed her face.
She swiped at his hand, “No, please, just a little longer.”
He couldn’t help it, he laughed softly. “Misty,” he worked a hand into her hair, “this is no dream.”
Her eyes flew open and she tensed. He held her gently, but firmly, she wasn’t going to run away this time, not now that he knew.
“It’s better than a dream.” He told her with a smile. “This is real.”
“Real.” She repeated dumbly. Her eyes fell to his arm, now scabbed over, then flew back to his face. “You’re really hurt, and you really followed me, and you really,” she paused.
He held her gaze, “I really kissed you.”
“Oh.” She smiled nervously, “you did?”
Ash nodded, “Yeah, but if you don’t remember it too well, I could do it again.” Her eyes lit up.
“I think that would be a good idea.”
“Okay,” he lowered his head once again. Just before their lips met she pulled back.
“Ash Ketchum, you’d better not be playing with me. This had better be real.” Then she put her arms around his neck and pulled his head down, kissing him. Inside he smiled, his Misty was back.
***
Ash and Misty entered the house arm in arm (not Ash’s injured arm of course). Richie and Tracey exchanged relieved glances. When Misty had run out of the house they had been concerned. But apparently things were fine. Richie took in the looks on their faces and the way they stood close together. Perhaps better than fine.
“Ash honey,” Mrs. Ketchum entered the room wiping a pot with a towel. Her eyes fell on his injured arm, “Ash!” she dropped the pot, a loud clang filling the room. Richie bent to retrieve it. “What happened?” Mrs. Ketchum came towards her son.
Misty looked at him expectantly, he never had told her that. Ash shrugged, “I had an accident in the woods.” That much was true, “A tree branch caught me.”
“That was some tree branch.” Joy remarked, coming in from the kitchen, “let me have a look at that.” Ash obediently held out his arm and Joy scrutinized it.
“It appears clean.” She spoke almost to herself.
“It is clean dear.” Brock took her by the shoulders, “I already saw to it. Ash will be fine.”
Mrs. Ketchum eyed them all suspiciously, then shot a look at James, “Oh, so that’s what was going on.” She focused her gaze on Ash, “a tree branch hmm?”
Ash held her gaze, “Yes mother, a tree branch. I had an accident in the woods and I’m fine.”
Delia nodded, deciding to drop it for now.
“And now on to more interesting topics.” Jesse interrupted. “What’s going on?” She wagged her finger back and forth between Ash and Misty. They just stared at her, “Oh please,” she rolled her eyes, “You’re not going to pretend nothing is going on are you? That is so denial!”
Ash grinned, “We didn’t deny anything.” He looked pointedly at Jesse, “Misty and I are now officially a couple.” His grin got even wider and Misty ducked her head.
“Finally!” Richie and Tracey exclaimed together.
“Oh honey, I’m so happy for you.” Delia hugged them both.
“I knew it!” Jenny exclaimed from the kitchen doorway.
“Mm hmm.” Joy smiled, “my second cousin said it would never happen, but I guess I showed her.”
“You showed her?” Brock said incredulously, “Don’t you mean they showed her?”
“Oh tish tosh,” she waved a hand at him, “do you have to get so technical about it?”
Jesse and James exchanged knowing glances, it had been much the same way with them. Only May seemed unhappy, but she struggled to smile, for Ash’s sake.
Ash smiled at Misty, who was blushing deeply, and leaned to whisper something in her ear. She smiled and whispered something back.
“Ah, young love.” Professor Oak smiled and wrapped an arm around his fiancée.
“Oh please-”
For the last few days it had been quiet – Ash only hoped it would last through the wedding. Only two days left until it was time to begin the final preparations, which would start with several days of setting up canopies. It was a good thing it was summer, rain would have ruined those things.
The next week and a half would be hard enough without Seth’s interference. Maybe Pikachu had scared him off for good.
“So you think he was responsible for the stampede too?” Richie asked.
Ash, Richie, and
Ash nodded, “I think he was the one sabotaging the league last year too, and sending threatening letters to Brock and Mom.”
“Man, that’s crazy. If you ask me this guy isn’t sane.” Richie kicked up a little cloud of dirt, “This could be more dangerous than any of us thought.”
“I guess.” Ash didn’t look convinced.
Ash sighed, “I know, but whatever his logic, it’s still my fault. None of you would be in danger if not for me.”
“He’s right you know.” A voice interrupted from behind them. Ash stiffened, his face tense as the color drained from it. He turned slowly.
“Seth.” He ground out through clenched teeth.
Seth gave a wicked grin, “Glad you remember me, healing nicely I see.” He indicated Ash arm. “Pity.”
Richie and Gary narrowed their eyes, this guy had better watch it.
Seth shook his head, “Well, I can see attacking you won’t do
any good. That stampede didn’t
do much either. In fact, nothing
I try seems to phase you.” He moved closer to Ash, oblivious to the menacing
glares of the three men facing him, “But I do believe I’ve finally found
something that will take you down.” Seth
looked up at the sky and allowed a mockingly dreamy quality to enter his
voice. “She’s really lovely
Ash, and what fire! Red heads are
always so much fun.” Ash’s head jerked up.
The thought of Seth watching him and Misty made him sick, the thought
of Seth coming after Misty made him scared, and that made him mad.
“You leave Misty alone!” He clenched his fists, knuckles white, barely restraining his anger.
“Looks like I hit a soft spot.” Seth mocked, grinning wickedly, “maybe I could-”
Ash lunged at him. Richie and Gary held him back, though it was clear they wished they could let him have at it.
“You,” Ash ground out, “If you touch Misty.” He warned.
Seth opened his mouth to respond, but got no farther.
“Unless you want us to let him go, I suggest you beat it.”
For a moment it looked as though Seth would ignore the warning, but then he got a good look in Ash’s eyes. His own widened, for the first time Seth looked worried for his personal safety, and he actually did something smart - he ran.
For a long moment the three men just stood there. Richie and Gary could hardly believe the man’s audacity- and stupidity. Coming out in the middle of the day, against three of them? Ash alone was easily twice the man’s size. And after all he’d done, to now threaten Misty, just when she and Ash had finally got it all together.
Richie took a moment to calm himself, he was no help to Ash if he was all worked up, then turned to face his friend. “You okay Ash?” he rested his hands lightly on Ash’s shoulders. Ash forced himself to take deep, calming breaths.
“We shoulda let Ash take ‘im.”
Richie shook his head, “Jenny would have our heads. Speaking of which,” he nodded toward the town, “We should report this.”
“Ash,” Richie tried to catch his eye. Ash was still intent on breathing and calming his racing heart.
<Calm down Ash,> he told himself <he’s not worth it. He’s not gonna hurt Misty, he’s too chicken, he just wanted to rile you> But why? It didn’t make any sense. He knew Seth, but he couldn’t figure out why the man hated him, if he could just…
“Yo, Ashy boy!”
“Yeah?”
“We need to report this to Jenny, you comin’ or should we send her by your house?”
Ash shook himself, putting the incident behind him, the last thing he needed was Jenny questioning him at home, Misty or his mom might hear. “I’m coming.” His voice was steely. Richie and Gary looked at each other behind Ash’s back as he stalked toward Pallet’s police station. What would happen the next time that creep showed up – when they weren’t around to stop Ash?
***
The three men entered the house as quietly as they could to avoid being noticed. Well, Richie and Gary did at least - Ash was too upset to care. It wouldn’t have mattered though, Misty was waiting for them by the door.
“Hi guys.” She smiled at Ash, trying to catch his gaze. Ash didn’t notice.
Richie and Gary glanced at each other, concerned.
“Hey, Misty.”
Richie said, forcing a smile on his face and a brightness in his tone he was
far from feeling. Misty looked from Richie to
Gary
“I gotta go.” He mumbled brushing past the others and practically running up the stairs. Misty looked between the two men left in the room, brows knit in confusion.
Gary and Richie shuffled their feet nervously. When Misty turned and looked blankly at the stairs they felt an almost tangible relief. Maybe she’d let it go.
Too much to ask.
Suddenly becoming angry, Misty turned on them, hands on her hips.
“What was that all about!?” she demanded.
The two men exchanged worried glances again, if only Tracey and Brock would come back. They weren’t sure how long they would stand up to Misty’s interrogation.
“He should
really be the one to tell you.”
“Yeah, Misty, it’s not our place.” Richie dared to look her in the eyes, hoping his sincerity would convince her.
“Fine.” Misty
gritted out and started to stalk toward the stairs.
Richie’s eyes flew to
“Maybe you should calm down first.” Richie said kindly.
“Yeah, and give
him some time to compose himself too.”
“Why should I?” Misty was still angry. She looked down at their hands holding her arms, preventing her from advancing – this was not calming her down.
Richie saw the look, but was determined to make her stay until she calmed down. He didn’t want to feel responsible for his best friends’ break-up. No way!
***
Richie and Gary watched Misty’s retreating form with relief. Richie was just glad she hadn’t pelted them, because they both knew she could have if she’d wanted to. That she actually became reasonable was an added bonus. Something he never would have expected, but that didn’t diminish his gratitude. He sent a silent thank you to whatever powers controlled the universe.
“I still say we shoulda let Ash take ‘im.”
The comment only earned him a piercing glare from Richie.
***
Misty drew a deep calming breath. She closed her eyes forcing herself to relax. If Ash was upset it wouldn’t help for her to yell at him. She knocked lightly on the door. “Ash?” she called softly. He didn’t respond, she pushed the door open slowly and stuck her head in.
“Ash,” she said again. “I’m coming in.” she didn’t see him so she came all the way in, shutting the door behind her. He was sitting on his bed staring out the window. His face looked so hard. She heard a thumping sound and looked down at his hands; he must have punched his leg. His fists were clenched so tight his knuckles were white. He had to be hurting himself, what was wrong?
He let out a low moan and hung his head; she could see tears glisten in his eyes.
“Oh Ash,” she moved toward him.
He looked up startled and swiped his forearm over his eyes. “Hey Misty,” he tried to look cheerful, but he knew he failed miserably. Not that it mattered, she obviously knew something was wrong – he hadn’t exactly been discreet downstairs.
She sat beside him and placed a hand gently on his arm. “What’s wrong Ash? You can tell me.”
He looked at her in suspicion. He shouldn’t, really he shouldn’t, but she looked so, so…concerned. He tried not to tell her, really he did, but he did tell her, he told her the whole horrid tale, every embarrassing detail. Well- most of it anyway. He didn’t tell her it was a threat to her specifically that had set him off.
“Oh Ash,” she breathed when he had finished. The look in her eyes made his breath catch, it made him uncomfortable too, he loved her so much…
“Yeah, well, it’s a good thing Pikachu wasn’t there.” He stated firmly, to divert himself.
“Where is Pikachu?” she asked, suddenly realizing she hadn’t seen it that day.
“Where’s Togepi?” Ash asked with a hint of mischief.
Misty looked startled; despite everything he laughed.
“They went with Brock and Tracey to the center,” he assured her.
“Oh,” she grinned sheepishly, ducking her head, embarrassed.
Ash laughed lightly once more. <if anything happens to her> he shut his eyes tightly against the thought and clenched his fists again, reliving his earlier anger, and fear.
Misty pretended not to notice. For a moment he had forgotten his troubles, at least she could do that for him. She rubbed his arm lightly, sliding her hand down to take one of his. She had an uneasy feeling he hadn’t told her everything. He was holding back, but why? She shook her head. It didn’t matter, what mattered was that right now he needed her.
For countless seconds they sat on Ash’s bed in silence. Then, with a sigh so forceful it shook his shoulders Ash looked up at her, “I have to tell everyone.” He said dully, “This has just gone too far.”
Misty squeezed his hand, glad he’d summoned the courage to do the right thing, wishing she could do more for him. “I’ll be right beside you Ash.” He smiled weakly at her, but she could read the gratitude in his eyes.
Ash took a deep breath and looked to Misty for moral support. The last half day had been nerve-wracking, but it truly was time he told everyone what was going on. After all, this affected all of them as much as it did him. He looked around the room. Maybe they should have met at Professor Oak’s house, the twelve of them were rather cramped in his mother’s living room. But he had wanted the familiar and comforting setting. This was going to be hard – though half the group, over half now, already knew at least part of the truth.
May gave him an encouraging smile. He hadn’t told her what was going on, but she knew enough to give it a good guess. Jesse and James were lost – Ash guessed they weren’t used to ‘family meetings’; of course, they’d never had much in the way of friends of family so that made sense.
“I need to explain some things to you.” Misty squeezed his hand and he smiled at her in thanks. “Some things have been going on the last year and I think I know why. Or at least, I think I know who is responsible for them.”
“What kinds of things?” Mrs. Ketchum asked uneasily. Her Ash looked so worried.
Ash sighed, “Lots of things mom. Like threatening letters, attacks on the lab, and on gyms-”
“Ash,” Professor Oak interrupted, “Are you referring to the ILM? Because I don’t see how you could possibly know-”
“The Indigo League Menace.” May Oak sat bolt upright in her chair, “I heard about him. What do you have to do with him?”
“I think I know who he is.”
“But Ash,” Professor Oak began. Ash held up a hand.
“Please Professor, this is hard enough.” The professor nodded, “I believe the man causing all this damage, including the stampede last week, is a man named Seth whom I met in Behrin.”
“I’m not sure why, but he hates me now, intensely and irrationally.”
“But how do you know it was him?”
Ash steeled himself, this was the hard part, “Because I’ve seen him. The day of the stampede, in the forest, and then again yesterday when he,” Ash clenched his jaw, remembering, then forced himself to relax, “he made some threats. He’s the one who gave me this gash.” He indicated his arm, “there was poison too.”
“Oh, Ash.” Delia gasped and Professor Oak put an arm around her, supporting her.
“You have to understand Professor, Mrs. Ketchum,” May interjected, seeing Ash’s struggle, “Seth is irrational, I believe he may be mentally unstable even.”
Ash closed his eyes tightly, “I know I should have told you sooner, but I didn’t want to worry you. I’m sorry…” he let his words trail off, hanging his head.
Delia patted his hand, “We understand dear.”
“What I want to know is why you didn’t let us help you.” Professor Oak said, “Wouldn’t we have been safer knowing the truth? That way we could have been prepared.”
“And it likely would have ruined the wedding.” Joy spoke up, “He did what he thought was best, and he’s apologized, don’t ask him to explain it again.” Brock gave his girlfriend an appreciative look. This was already so hard on Ash.
“Well I think we should go find this guy!” Jesse exclaimed, startling everyone with her ferocity. “Who does he think he is messing with all you wonderful people!? I bet he’s the one who started that fire too.”
“Fire?” Jesse would have continued, but Ash’s shocked echo cut her off. James tried to hush her, but she kept right on going.
“Yes, fire! The one that started in your mother’s garden and very well might have burned down the whole house if James and I hadn’t…” Jesse suddenly stopped, realizing her mistake. Ash’s face drained of color then turned a deep red, his fists were clenched so hard his knuckled went white.
“He – set – my – mother’s – house – on – fire?” His voice was dangerously calm.
“Um, yeah well…” Jesse stuttered, searching for a way to fix this new problem.
Ash drew in deep slow breaths. He closed his eyes then turned to his mother. “That’s what you meant. When you said that they had helped you.” Delia nodded, tears in her eyes. He turned to Jesse and James, “Thank you.” He said quietly, tears forming in his own eyes. “How can I ever thank you?”
“She saved our lives, it was the least we could do.” James told him. He offered a small smile.
“I’m so sorry to have involved you.” Ash told him.
James held his gaze without wavering, “You’re our family now. Your problems are our problems. We have to look out for one another. You don’t have to apologize to us.” Jesse nodded, agreeing firmly with her husband’s statement. The twerp was family, and he was a friend, they would stand by him.
“That goes for the rest of us as well.” Jenny said firmly, “but I would just as soon you all let the police handle this. We’ve dug up a few leads since your report yesterday-”
Misty’s eyes flew to Ash’s, “You filed a report yesterday?”
“We had to
Misty.”
Misty nodded, “This is all so crazy.”
“The best thing we can do is to keep going on as usual. We can’t let Seth control us, it would only give him a sense of power over us.”
“Then what do you suggest Jenny?” Delia turned to the blue haired woman.
“Continue with the wedding plans as normal. I’ll try to stop by, but it’ll be pretty busy at the station what with all this; if I don’t see you between now and then I’ll see you at the rehearsal dinner.”
“Oh, right. Um, see you Jenny.” Professor Oak called as Jenny left the room. Delia was too concerned to speak.
Jesse leaned over James and whispered something in his ear. His eyes widened and the two of them shot up heading towards the door.
“Yes, well, got a lot to do.” Jesse said quickly, “see you later.” They left before anyone had a chance to question them. Slowly the others left as well, off to consider their own thoughts, or prepare wedding gifts. Jenny had reminded them that the wedding was coming. They had to set up canopies tomorrow. Soon they would have no more free time.
Left alone in the room Ash buried his face in Misty’s shoulder and let her comfort him. He was so tired of being strong – he had been for so many years.
***
“Jesse,” James was struggling to keep up with her brisk pace and talk at the same time. “Don’t you think we should let the police handle this?”
She whirled, stopping so abruptly he nearly collided with her. “And when have they ever been able to do anything?” She spoke in a hushed but hard tone, “You’ve seen how well they’ve done at stopping Team Rocket. They couldn’t even catch us, and we were very nearly incompetent! Someone needs to do something about this guy, and it’s going to be us!” With that she hauled him into the bushes to begin forming a plan.
***
“Has anyone seen Jesse and James?” Delia asked, coming in to the kitchen. Brock didn’t look up from the carrots he was peeling as he shook his head.
Joy glanced at her from her seat on the counter top, “They took off right after Ash’s announcement, and they haven’t been back since.”
“I think they went into town,” Richie offered, finishing off his glass of juice and wiping at his upper lip, “Why?”
“Use a napkin!” May told him sternly. He just threw her a look before returning his gaze to Mrs. Ketchum.
“Well, James said he would finish the bases for the floral arrangements today, and Jesse has her final gown fitting.”
Joy’s eyes widened, “If Jesse missed a fitting it must be something important.”
“Uh, oh.” Brock shuddered, “If that gown doesn’t fit she’s gonna be mad.”
“Why? It’d be her own fault.” May said.
Richie looked at her in wonder, “You don’t know Jesse very well, do you?”
Mrs. Ketchum shook her head, “I just don’t understand.” Richie and Brock exchanged glances, they had their suspicions, but they weren’t about to tell Mrs. Ketchum what they thought. “Well, I suppose I’ll send the seamstress home and reschedule for tomorrow.”
Brock nodded, “That’s a good idea, Mrs. Ketchum.”
When Delia was well out of earshot Joy turned on her boyfriend with a glare, “Alright, what do you know?”
Brock flinched, “Nothing,” she raised a brow, “honest, I don’t know anything. Now let me finish dinner.”
Joy looked over to where Richie had been sitting at the table, but he had slipped away unnoticed. Joy turned back to Brock ready to do battle.
“Gee thanks Richie.” He muttered, heaving a sigh.
“I HATE silk tents. I hate factories in Shanti, and farms in Hoenn. In fact I hate Beautifly, and quite possibly all flying insect type pokemon.” Gary
“You don’t mean that.” Ash told him.
“Yes, I really think I do.”
Ash shook his head, “No you don’t.”
“Okay.” Ash shrugged and turned back to his work. The others groaned, that meant they would have to get up too. It was just so hot, but the wedding was less than a week away. And the tents had to go up before the floral arrangements and chairs and tables and who knew what else could be set up. They just prayed the skies stayed clear until the wedding, if these canopies were ruined Delia just might hurt someone.
They really had no choice though, this was the only time they could do this. They had started the day before and it would likely take them the rest of the day. Ash seemed determined to finish before dinner even if that meant he would have to do it himself. And of course, they couldn’t let him do that. He was strong, but if he hurt himself before the wedding they knew Delia would hurt them.
“Just out of
curiosity, why do you care?”
Ash shot him a
wry glance, “Can’t really be a Pokemon Master if you hate any pokemon, now
can you? In fact, I may not want
that kind of person in my Gym.” He emphasized the word “my” just enough
to bug
“Why you…
you,”
Ash laughed, and soon the other men joined him.
“Come on guys, we’ve got work to do.”
“I love bridal showers!” Joy giggled, “Well, I suppose I love everything about weddings actually.”
Misty shook her head, she was rather fed up with all this wedding stuff – but Joy seemed to thrive on it.
“What did you get Delia?” Joy asked her.
“Who?”
“Mrs. Ketchum, what did you get her as a gift?”
“Oh!” Misty still wasn’t accustomed to hearing Ash’s mom called by name. “I got her some weights, so she won’t have to use Ash’s trophies anymore.”
Joy giggled, “I got here a nightie.” She whispered, wiggling her eyebrows. Misty’s eyebrows shot up into her hairline, she was so surprised.
“What about you Jesse?” she asked, to divert the conversation.
“I wasn’t sure what to give her. Usually you give brides cook books, and things to help them set up house. But Delia doesn’t need all that. So I designed her a summer dress, to wear on her honeymoon.”
“Oh.” Misty shifted uncomfortably, was everyone giving Mrs. Ketchum clothes?
May leaned over toward her, “I got her some gardening books.” Misty smiled gratefully.
“Oh! She’s coming.” Joy waved her hands in excitement. “Did I mention that I love bridal showers?”
***
“I hate bachelor parties.” Gary
“You sure hate a lot of stuff.” Richie said flatly
Ash rolled his eyes, “Oh come on, you who used to have cheerleaders?”
“We invited cheerleaders?” Tracey asked, turning to Richie.
Richie shook his head.
“Well,”
Ash just laughed.
“How do you have a bachelor party with no beer, and no girls?” James asked Then he paused, “Hmm, though I suppose as a boy I attended a good many that had no girls.” He grinned, wiggling his brows, “but there were plenty of spirits.”
Tracey rubbed the back of his head, “What are we having at this party?”
“Who wants cookies! I just baked them.” Brock smiled as he entered holding a tray of cookies.
“I thought cookies were for girls?”
“Oh, shut up.” Richie hit him on the head lightly.
“Hey! My hair!”
Ash stood eagerly, “I don’t care if they are for girls, they smell great.” He helped himself to several, “Thanks Brock, these are wonderful.”
Brock just grinned. Ash had always loved his cooking. Hmm, maybe he’d have to teach Misty some of his favorite recipes.
Professor Oak entered the room slowly. “I thought I told you boys, no bachelor party.” He said sternly, but he was holding in a smile.
“You did.” Ash smiled, “So we're having a cookie party.” He waved a cookie in the Professor’s face, “And we just happened to bring you presents.”
Professor Oak laughed, “I see.”
“Aw, come on.” Tracey pleaded, “The girls were throwing a bridal shower tonight, we had to do something.”
“Alright, alright.” Professor Oak waved him off, still laughing. He sat and rubbed his hands together, “Now, bring on the cookies!”
***
“Oh my!” Delia pulled out Joy’s gift and blushed, “It’s, erm, thanks.” She coughed lightly and shoved it back in its bag.
Next she pulled out May’s gift, “Oh, May, how sweet! Mimie and I will love these.”
Now she had Misty’s gift, Misty’s palms were
sweating. Why couldn’t she have
thought of a better gift? Mrs.
Ketchum pulled out the small weights – the ends were shaped like pokeballs!
Delia’s eyes teared up, memories of Ash’s first trophy – the one
from the
She hugged Misty, “Oh, thank you honey!” Misty smiled, how could she have doubted? For someone like Delia, this was the perfect gift.
***
“What’s this?” Professor Oak asked. Despite his protests, he was loving this. Though the gifts were a bit… odd. But then what do you get the man who has everything?
Tracey blushed, “It’s a sketchpad.”
Tracey looked down at his feet, “I noticed you had some old sketchpads professor, and some of your sketches were really good. But you don’t have any recent ones, I thought maybe you could start sketching again.”
The Professor smiled warmly, patting his assistants hand lightly, “That was very thoughtful Tracey. If nothing else, I can put research notes in here.”
Tracey smiled in relief.
“Oh that reminds me Ash, this was left for you.” The professor pulled a wrinkled envelope out of his coat pocket. Ash took it, studied it a moment and then frowned. Standing absently he walked away. The others watched him in confusion.
“Guess it was bad news.” Richie ventured.
“Well, guess that about wraps that up,”
“Hey twerp.” James smiled as he approached Ash, but he did throw one last nervous glance over his shoulder, could he keep Ash distracted long enough for Jesse to sneak into his room?
Ash had been receiving some mail recently, like the letter at the cookie party, which was odd in and of itself because all his close friends were here. What made it stranger was that it often arrived at unusual times and Jesse was positive the letters had no postage. What was more, Ash seemed to be trying to hide them, and they certainly weren’t making him happy.
“Hey James,” Ash didn’t turn to look at the older man, but he did motion for James to join him.
“Out here alone? Not that I blame you really, those canopies must have been torture.”
Ash shot him a sideways glance, “You should have tried it.” They both knew he wasn’t serious, James worked hard, but some things were just out of his league.
“Thank you, no. The floral bases needed my attention. And then there were the table cloths. I’m a fashion designer, not a tailor.”
“James, I don’t think tailors embroider table cloths.”
“Well, if they don’t have to I certainly shouldn’t have to.” James smiled and pushed his hair out of his eyes, “But I have to keep my wife happy.”
Ash laughed, “that must be quite a job.”
James shrugged, “Women always are. Or hasn’t Misty taught you that yet?” Ash blushed, he still wasn’t used to the fact that he and Misty were together. “I’m just lucky the woman I love loves me back – not all men have that good fortune.”
“Tell me about it.” Ash skipped a stone over the pond water, “I almost missed my chance, and that frightens me.”
James nodded, staring out over the water. He had almost missed his chance too. “What is this fear of rejection we have? Even when we’re certain they love us, when the moment comes we doubt.”
Ash sighed, “Maybe it’s because we know we don’t deserve them. I certainly don’t deserve Misty.”
“She probably thinks the same thing.”
Ash shoved James lightly, “Gee, thanks pal.”
James reddened, waving his hands, “Oh, no, I meant that she probably thinks she doesn’t deserve you either. I know Jesse felt that way for a long time.”
Ash looked at him quizzically, “Because you were rich?”
“Maybe, in part. But mainly because she’s so violent and bossy I think.” He grinned, “And we all know I’m an angel.”
“Ah yes,” Ash smiled, “Victrebel must have eaten the halo.”
Now it was James turn to push Ash, “that’s not funny.”
Ash’s grin widened, “How is that devil anyway?”
“Oh, fine now. I think its finally gained some respect for me. Here.” James withdrew a pokeball.
Ash shifted away, “Um, James, I’m not so sure-”
James waved his other hand, “Nonsense, it’s fine, really.” He tossed the pokeball, releasing a large, bell shaped pokemon with huge leaves. It let out a cry and wrapped its vines around James.
“See,” James’ voice was slightly strangled, as though he couldn’t quite breath. “It only strangles me now.” He lightly tapped Victrebel’s vines and it released him, shrieking happily.
Ash laughed, “It’s a shame it can’t do anything but shriek.” He pressed a hand to one ear.
“Don’t I know it. And it does that all the time now.” He recalled Victrebel, “But hey, he doesn’t try to swallow me whole anymore so I’m happy.” He was also happy to have the pokemon back. It had broken his heart when Jesse had traded it away in Hoenn. And he had been so surprised when it showed up one day back in Indigo.
“That’s a definite plus.” Ash rubbed his sore ears. That shriek should have been considered an attack.
“What about you?” James asked, “Any interesting Pokemon habits?”
Ash shook his head, “Unless you count the fact that Bayleef is still madly in love with me.”
“She better watch out, Misty might get jealous. And I bet Misty’d win in a head on conflict.”
Ash gave a mock shuddered, “You’re kidding, but it’s true.” He stretched and gave a yawn. “But we both know I had my share of odd pokemon too. I mean, I’ll never understand why Charmander went rebel when he evolved, or why Totodile always danced.” James smiled. Ash had always had strange pokemon… well, maybe unique was a better word. Maybe it was because he had such good relationships with them. It certainly influenced his battling style – no one battled like Ash. Each of his pokemon was a friend. James had often thought Ash dealt better with pokemon than with people, especially as he had watched Ash and Misty.
“Maybe Totodile was just really happy.” James pointed out.
“Yeah well, whatever the reason I’m just glad he stopped when he evolved. Can you imagine a Croconaw prancing about like that?” The two men shared a laugh at the ridiculous picture.
“No, I suppose not.” James rubbed the back of his neck and returned his gaze to the water. “It’s interesting isn’t it? The two of us sitting here, talking like old friends.”
Ash clapped him on the back, “We are old friends James, we just didn’t know it until recently.”
“I never thought of it that way.” James turned to look at him, “I don’t think I’ve ever apologized for what we did to you. I’m sorry.”
Ash shrugged, “hey man, it’s fine. After all, you saved my life a couple times too. If you hadn’t been so obsessed with stealing Pikachu you wouldn’t have been there to help me, so I guess it all evens out.”
James felt relieved. He had been dreading this conversation, things had been going so well, but he hadn't been sure. Evidently Ash really had forgiven them.
Movement caught his eye.
Jesse! He had almost forgotten. Clapping his hands on his thighs he stood, “Well, I’d best be going, Jesse will wonder where I am.”
Ash smiled and stood, “Guess I’d better go find Misty before she finds me. I wonder how that last dress fitting went?”
James groaned, “I went through that yesterday, it was awful.” He patted Ash’s shoulder, “Good luck my friend, you’re going to need it.”
With a jaunty wave Ash took off for the house at a jog. James smiled after him. He really did like the twerp.
“James!” Jesse called him in exasperation. “Come here.”
With a resigned sigh he came to where she was hiding in the bushes. “You can come out now Jess.”
“Thank goodness,” she stepped out, brushing leaves from her clothing. James smiled as he reached to remove a twig from her fiery hair. It’d been a long time since he’d seen her like this. It reminded him of their younger days, chasing Ash and his friends. They had always seemed to be dirty. “What took you so long?” she demanded.
He let out a soft laugh, “It didn’t take me long at all and you know it.” He wasn’t afraid of her anymore, he knew her irritation was a mask, and day by day he saw it slipping away.
“Oh, all right. Come on, come see what I found.”
“See?” James was alarmed, “Jesse, you didn’t take any of those letters did you?”
“No of course not.” She shot him a look of disbelief, her voice laced with irritation, “what do you think I am? Stupid?”
“No Jesse, I just assumed-”
“Well don’t.” clearly perturbed she grabbed his arm and drew him with her as she walked. “I was right.” She said triumphantly, once they could no longer see the house. “The letters were from that Seth guy. He was threatening Misty.”
“Misty?” James’ eyes widened, “No wonder Ash has been so on edge.”
“Yes, well, near as I can tell, Seth’s going to do something on the day of the wedding. And we’re going to be ready for him. We just need the right plan”
“Jesse, we were never the best at plans.”
She shot him a haughty look, “Well, you may not be a good planner, but I certainly am. I’m a tactical genius.”
“Mm, hmm.” James pulled her into his arms, “No offense love, but the only kind of genius you posses involves fashion. I think we’re going to need some help.”