Adventures Series, Episode 23 (Version 1.1), "Three Short Stories: Master Ball Edition" At last! The big event is here! Get ready for revelations that'll open your eyes! At least in the eyes of Pokémon, anyway. Pay close attention to all three short stories, there's a big surprise hiding in each of them. Oh, and for the purpose of this fanfic, I've assigned names to selected anime characters. Now, let's get this show on the road! Disclaimer: I take credit for Patti, Cassie, Biff, Professor Fir, Sally, and a few minor characters that appear in this special edition. Globie takes credit for Scott. The guys from Japan take credit for all of the Pokémon characters. But who's taking credit for all of the snow here on the East Coast? Um, that one I'm not sure of... Author's Sort-of Warning: This was originally supposed to be rated PG, but after reading it over, I didn't find anything that required that rating. So not really a warning at all... ************************************************************************ Adventures Series, Season 1 [Episode 23] "Three Short Stories: Master Ball Edition" Story Written by Freedom Fighter ************************************************************************ Narrator: Welcome to the second edition of "Three Short Stories." In our first edition last November, we watched as Brock Slate and Patti Masters went on a date that left the door open for a future romance. We introduced a young trainer named Cassie Banks, who showed that sometimes the past could affect the future in more ways than one. Finally, we attended a conference involving the three factions of Team Rocket... and their plans for the future. How have things been since? Brock is shown in a recording booth, remembering "The Date." Brock: Patti's the only girl that's ever kissed me... other than my mom. (stifles a tear) And I haven't seen her since. Narrator: Cassie was supposed to be here to update us on her status, but she was unable to attend this special edition. But, she e-mailed us the other day with her response... Cassie's Voice: There's a lot of my past still shrouded in mystery... some parts that I don't even know myself. Hopefully I'll know everything one day, and be able to pass the stories on to my fans. Narrator: Also, a Team Rocket representative was supposed to be here. He didn't show up. Something must be going on behind the scenes. Narrator then looks around to make sure a Team Rocket member isn't about to jump him. Narrator: Okay, now we move on to what to expect in this edition. Read the table of contents below to see what's in store this time around. And I'll see you in the books! ************************************************************************ Table of Contents: Misty in "The Misty Files" - Misty personally examines four scenes that were cut from her series. The truth is, only one of them is real. Can you guess which one? Gary in "Is a Pokémon Battle Worth My Time?" - Check out Gary's crusades since the Novice Tournament, and then help decide whether or not he wins his latest battle. Main Story - "Here Comes the Fine Toothed Comb" - Join us in Cerulean City as Professor Oak and Mrs. Ketchum TRY and tie the knot. The key word: TRY! Misty and Gary's stories take place two days after "Dreams Do Come True, Chapter 3." "Here Comes the Fine Toothed Comb" takes place one week after that chapter. ************************************************************************ Misty in "The Misty Files" ************************************************************************ *** Scene opens in a dark room. The lights come on, and we see Misty sitting on a stool that's next to a movie screen. There are three videotapes on a table on the other side of the room labeled "Misty's Travels to the Pokémon League." The director comes in and takes the tapes, and then leaves the set. The camera then focuses on Misty. Misty: Hello, and welcome to the Pokémon recording studio. I'm Misty Waterflower, as many of you know. You're probably wondering what you're doing here. Or what I'm doing here. Well, a lot of people have been wondering, with all of the action in my hit series, is anything ever cut from the script? Ash: (running in) Of course stuff is cut from the script. All of the good stuff is cut! All that's left is dribble that's not even suitable for kids that are three months old. Misty: Ash! What are you doing here? Ash: Well, I'm here to complain! How do you get your own series, and then your own special? Misty: Why, you ask? Because I'm the most popular trainer of them all! Ash: Yeah, right. Who's the one with the badges, huh? Misty: For your information, you have your own series! Ash: Not really. I'm forced to share with Brock, that kid from Viridian who doesn't know a thing about Pokémon battles, a girl that thinks she's better than me because she's already been a League member for almost two years, and that yellow mouse that everyone loves. Misty: His name's Pikachu, Ash. Ash: His? I always thought Pikachu was a she! Misty: (pushing Ash off the set) Ash, will you go already! You've already wasted one of my seven minutes! Ash: Well, what do you know? Mission accomplished! Misty: Don't make me pull out the "you know what." Ash: Okay, I'm going. (waves to the viewers) I'll see you guys later. Misty: Yeesh, I'm glad that that's over. Anyway, out of the nine episodes that have aired so far, each one has at least five percent material that didn't make the final cut. Some more than others. We've decided to pull four such scenes from the tapes. Unfortunately, Team Rocket got their hands on the tapes before the show, so now only one of the four scenes is actually from the episodes. But we don't know which one! That's where you, the fans, come in. I'm about to present the four clips, in series order. Watch all four, then tell us which one you believe is the right one. The first five viewers who correctly identify the right scene will win two special fanfics due in March, and get them before anyone else in the world does. So let's get started, shall we. Our first clip involves Duplica and some "trouble" that she encountered the last time I was in Cerulean City... *** Scene 1: At the Pokémart, Duplica's welcomed by a guy at the checkout station. He watches in awe as she enters with Ditto. Biff: Hi, my name's Biff, and welcome to the Pokémart! Can I help you, my lovely lady? Duplica: Oh, trying to be a romancer, are you? Biff: Why don't you and me go out, say tomorrow night? I know this great place where we can stare at the moon all night. *** Misty's face appears on the screen. Misty: Okay, folks, here's what was cut out of this conversation. Roll tape! *** (Start Uncut Scene 1) Duplica: Well, I don't know. I'm kind of traveling with someone. Biff: Oh, forget about traveling for one night. The stars are coming out tonight, and I know you'd look beautiful among them. Duplica: No, really, I'm not the romantic type. Biff: Now come on! You're telling me that you've never spent a night in a size six nightgown and snuggling with your new boyfriend? Duplica: Alright, now you're freaking me out! Biff: You know you want me. (End Uncut Scene 1) Duplica: (getting serious) Look, all I want are some Pokéballs! Biff: And I think you're looking for something more than that, my dear. Duplica: Don't you come near me! Ditto: (angry) Ditto! Biff: (trying to grab her) Why don't I take you to my fantasy world? *** Back in the studio, Misty still sitting in her chair. Misty: Now I know how Duplica felt when that Biff jumped her. But at least we got our revenge on him. Anyway, our next scene comes from the island resort of Porta Vista, and stars Professor Fir, as well as myself. Let's watch... *** Scene 2: Misty puts them (safety goggles) on just as he pulls the switch. A quick flash of green light, and the machine shuts off. Misty: Hey! At least give me a fair warning before you pull that switch! Prof. Fir: Sorry. I'm not used to having an assistant. Misty: An assistant? Prof. Fir: Yes, an assistant. You don't know how hard it is to get good help way out here on the islands. Professor Oak had an old friend that was looking to be an assistant, but since he didn't need any help, and he knew that I didn't have as many available materials up here, he told me he was sending his friend up. He looks over Misty, and admires her beauty for the first time. Prof. Fir: But I didn't know his friend was so young and beautiful! Misty: (blushing) I'm flattered, professor, but I'm not your new assistant. Prof. Fir: You're not? (to himself) So much for a new girlfriend... Misty: I came here on a cruise ship with my friend, Arius. Prof. Fir: Oh, and where is this Arius? He can't be much of a boyfriend if he runs off to do stuff by himself. Misty: (angry) Arius is not my boyfriend! Prof. Fir: (sarcastically) Sure. And I'm Bob Barker and you're the next contestant on The Price is Right! Misty: (raising an eyebrow) Excuse me? *** The present day Misty appears once again. Misty: Alright, here's what you didn't hear. Roll tape! *** (Start Uncut Scene 2) Prof. Fir: Well, the Price is Right is a game show in America where contestants compete to win money. It's very popular. Misty: Oh. Can I be a contestant? Prof. Fir: I don't know why you're asking me. I've never been to California. Misty: (screaming) Then why did you bring it up? Prof. Fir: (to himself) I thought you'd look beautiful on TV. Then again, I might be wrong. Misty: (while searching for something to whack him with) What did you say, professor? (End Uncut Scene 2) Prof. Fir: Oh, nothing. So why are you here? *** Back in studio, an angry Misty begins to tear a piece of paper up. Misty: I can't believe Professor Fir said that! When I get my hands on him I'm going to give him a one-way trip to... (sees that the camera is on her) Oh, sorry, just planning something for tonight. Hey, a girl's got stay entertained. The wedding's in five days... which seems forever to me. Anyway, let's take a look at our third scene. Before Erika found me in the Pokémon Center in Celadon City, it turned out that I wasn't the only one with a new Pokémon... *** Scene 3: Erika has just left her gym to go meet Misty at the Pokémon Center. (Start Uncut Scene 3) Erika: (sighs) Maybe I'd better take a walk downtown. With the girls out shopping, it's pretty boring up here at the gym. Erika begins to walk away from the gym when she spots an Exeggcute hiding in the nearby bushes. The Exeggcute tries to run away, but then they turn around when they see Erika isn't chasing them. Erika: Why are you running? I'm not going to hurt you. The Exeggcute at first weren't going to believe her, but her sincere look convinced them otherwise. Exeggcute: Exegg? Erika: I'm a grass Pokémon trainer. Would you like to come with me? I've got a great squad of Pokémon that I'm sure you'd get along fine with. Erika reaches into her purse and throws out her three best Pokémon: Tangela, Weepinbell, and Gloom. Erika: Tangela, Weepinbell, Gloom, say hello to our new friend, Exeggcute! The four Pokémon begin to converse while Erika pulls out a special food pellet for Exeggcute. Erika: You know what, Exeggcute? You look hungry. Do you want something to eat? Exeggcute began to pull back again, scared that the pellet was some type of poison. This made Erika step back herself. Gloom then walks up to Exeggcute and begins to explain... Gloom: Gloooooommm! Gloom gloom! Exeggcute: Cute? Exegg? Gloom: Gloom gloom gloooooommmmm! Exeggcute: (nodding their heads) Exeggcute, exeggcute! Erika: What did they say, Gloom? Gloom: Gloom! Gloom gloom, gloom gloom gloom! Erika: You mean they don't mind eating it? Gloom: Gloom. Erika: Okay then. Here you go, Exeggcute! She gives the pellet to Exeggcute. After eating it, the Exeggcute then begin to jump up and down in front of her. Erika somehow managed to decipher what they were saying. Erika: You guys want to come with me? Exeggcute: Exeggcute! Erika: I thought you guys didn't like trainers. Exeggcute: Cute cute, exeggcute! Erika: You mean you don't mind if I catch you because I'm a kind and caring trainer. Alright, then, welcome aboard, Exeggcute! She pulls out a Pokéball and captures Exeggcute. Erika then quickly runs to the Pokémon Center, where she finds Misty asleep. (End Uncut Scene 3) Erika: Misty! Misty: (waking up) Erika? *** Scene of Misty sleeping, then waking up when the camera focuses on her. Misty: Oh. Looks like Erika caught an Exeggcute that I didn't originally know about. I wonder if she'll use that to her advantage? Okay, here's the last scene. *** Scene 4: Cassidy and Butch dive for Misty, who jumps out of the way. The two Rockets' heads collide, as Misty runs to her bike and pedals down the road. Cassidy: Quick, Butch, get those bikes we stole, I mean borrowed, so we can chase her! Butch: Right! Cassidy: And Raticate is riding on your bike! Butch: Okay, yeesh! How was I supposed to know that you're allergic to Raticate? Soon, Cassidy, Butch, and Raticate are giving chase. Misty, with Togepi still in her lap, pedals to try and get away. *** Misty appears once again. Misty: Ready? Here's the fourth uncut scene! *** (Start Uncut Scene 4) Cassidy: Do you really think you can get away, kid? Misty: Cassidy, I don't think, I know! With that Misty starts to pedal away from Cassidy, Butch, and Raticate. Butch: Rats! Raticate: Cate! Butch: Sorry, Raticate. It's just an expression. (to Cassidy) She's getting away! Cassidy: Don't worry, Butch. She won't get far. I've planted a land mine up ahead, just in case. (End Uncut Scene 4) Suddenly, Misty rides over a land mine. She, Togepi, her satchel, and her bike are sent flying in four different directions. The bike lands, still intact, but destroyed beyond repair. The satchel empties out all over the road. Togepi lands in a bird's nest in a nearby tree. As for Misty, she lands on her back, and begins to black out as she hears the Rockets' bikes draw ever closer. *** Back to Misty in the studio... Misty: Well, folks, those are the four scenes. Which one is really from our drawing board? If you have no clue, we're going to help you. In each of the remaining four episodes of my series, there will be a clue somewhere in the episode to help you decide the correct answer. I'll let the narrator explain the full rules. In the meantime, I'm going to go tape the next part of my series. See you later! And narrator, it's all yours! *** Narrator: Thank you, Misty. The rules are as follows: (1) You may send as many entries as you want, but only one entry per e-mail. (2) The deadline for entries is 3:00 p.m. eastern standard time on February 29, 2000 (subject to change). (3) You will be notified if you enter the right answer. (4) The contest also ends once five correct answers have been submitted. Narrator: Winners will receive an advanced copy of "Uncut" and "Bloopers," two specials which will pick apart all of this season's episodes. Not just Misty's, but all of them. More information about these specials will be provided as their release dates approach. Remember to send all entries to Freedom Fighter. His e-mail address is listed at the end of this fanfic. Good luck to all! [1] ************************************************************************ Gary in "Is a Pokémon Battle Worth My Time?" ************************************************************************ (Special Note: It would be helpful if you've read "The Pokémon League Novice Tournament" prior to reading this.) Gary: It's been nearly three and a half months since I was up at the Indigo Plateau... Gary is seen walking down Route 4, towards Cerulean City. Gary: In fact, it's really hard to remember what exactly happened while I was up there... (Flashback #1: "The Pokémon League Novice Tournament," Chapter 5 - Gary is seen standing next to Ash, Pikachu, Mrs. Ketchum, Professor Oak, Jeanette, Nurse Joy, AJ, Sandslash, Duplica, Ditto, and TJ. Patti Masters is holding a camera, which she uses to take a picture.) [2] Gary: I remember sitting on the plane back to Viridian City that I had a League membership badge and a ninth place certificate. (Flashback #2: On that plane, shortly after the last flashback.) [3] Gary: Hey, Ash, is the tournament over already? Ash: Yeah. But it's kind of weird. I have this membership badge and placement certificate, but I don't know how I got them. Gary: Yeah, me too. TJ: You two are lucky. I didn't get one. Ash: That's very strange. Gary: I wonder how it happened... (end flashback) Gary: After the holidays, I left home and headed here for Buzzpar Island. That's where I met this girl that I thought looked familiar to me... (Flashback #3: Along Island Route 2, Gary stands opposite of Jeanette, both ready for a Pokémon battle.) Gary: I'm Gary Oak of Pallet Town. Say, haven't I seen you somewhere before? Jeanette: I'm Jeanette Fisher of Crimson City. I don't think we've ever met, though it seems like we have. Gary: Weird, huh? Jeanette: Say, nice cheerleading squad you got there. Gary's Cheerleaders: Gary, Gary, he's the best! He'll put you down just like the rest! Gary: Thanks! Jeanette: At least you only have to deal with six. I've got about fifty. (points to her squad) Jeanette's Cheerleaders: Yeah, Jeanette! You can do it! You're always fit! Now show this guy that you're the best! Yes! Gary: Geese, where did you pick up those losers, Cleveland? Jeanette: I'll have you know that I attended school with at least half of them! Gary: Only half? Jeanette: That's it! I challenge you to a sudden death Pokémon battle. Gary: You're on! Jeanette: (throws a Pokéball) Go, Bellsprout! Bellsprout: Bell? Gary: (kisses his Pokéball before throwing it) Go, Arcanine! Arcanine: Archyyyyyy! Gary: Arcanine, flamethrower! Jeanette: Bellsprout, dodge it, then wrap it up! Arcanine's attack is successful, as Bellsprout catches fire. The Bellsprout then drops to the ground and begins to roll around, putting the fire out. Jeanette: Good work, Bellsprout! Now, let's see that wrap attack! Gary: Arcanine, use your roar attack to scare that little weed! Arcanine roars, causing Bellsprout to miss. Arcanine capitalizes on the mistake by biting Bellsprout. Jeanette: Bellsprout! Gary: Okay, Arcanine, let's give the flamethrower another shot! Bellsprout tries to shield itself from the intense heat of Arcanine's flamethrower, but fails. It falls to the ground, to the enjoyment of Gary's cheerleaders, and to the disappointment of Jeanette's cheerleaders. Gary: Looks like I win! Jeanette: So you have. (she picks up her injured Bellsprout) Don't worry, Bellsprout. You'll be fine. Jeanette walks off towards town to find a Pokémon Center, with her cheerleaders weeping behind her. Gary's Cheerleaders: Gary, Gary, he's so cool! When he walks into town, all the girls drool! Gary: Nice one, girls. Nice one. (end flashback) Gary: From that point on, even if I didn't know how I got into the League, I knew I deserved to be in. Unfortunately, something happened one night that changed my life forever. (Flashback #4: Seashore Inn, Charger City, three weeks ago) Gary: (narration) I had just spent the whole day battling four different trainers, all with different backgrounds. I managed to beat them all, but what I didn't know was that my cheerleaders were getting tired of it... Gary: Stephanie, you wanted to see me? [4] The beautiful smile that is usually accented by her fully built, shoulder length brown hair, a blue short sleeve shirt that's covered by a white girdle-looking top, and black skirt, has been replaced by the unhappy frown now placed on the oldest member of the cheerleading squad. Stephanie: Gary, me and the girls are tired of traveling all over the place and watch you just battle with your Pokémon! Gary: I can't help it, Stephanie! I'm a Pokémon trainer! Stephanie: I know that you're a Pokémon trainer! But Gary, you never spend one minute with us relaxing or going shopping or even watching TV! Gary: I'm sorry, but a trainer's work is never done. Stephanie: Is that so? Well, let me tell you something, Gary Oak! The girls and I are tired of it. We've packed our things, and we're heading back to Pallet! Gary: What? You can't be serious! Stephanie pulls out a bottle of water, twists the cap off, and then pours the bottle's contents over Gary's head, soaking him to the bone. Stephanie: Is that serious enough for you? With that, Stephanie walks out the door. Gary tries to dry himself off, then walks outside just in time to see Stephanie drive off in the car, the other cheerleaders waving goodbye. Gary: I can't believe my eyes... they left me... (end flashback) Gary: From that day forward, I lost my edge. I struggled and lost my next three matches, even though two of them came down to the wire. When the rookie standings poll came out last Monday, I was ranked eighth, but barely. I had managed to survive the bullet of being dropped from the Pokémon League. That girl I had met, Jeanette. She was ranked seventh! Ash, that lucky dog, was in fifth! And I was here in eighth! Unbelievable. Female Voice: What a surprise to find you here! Gary turns around, and there stood Cassie Banks, the blonde and ponytail haired girl he knew all too well. Gary: It's you! That girl that beat me back in the Viridian Forest! (Flashback #5: "Three Short Stories" - "Changing History" - Viridian Forest. Cassie's Bulbasaur is seen using the leech seed attack to defeat Gary's Nidoking.) [5] Cassie: Nice to see you again, Gary Oak. Gary: The feeling's mutual, Cassie Banks. Cassie: What are you doing way out here? I thought you would be at the Indigo Plateau preparing for the next Novice Tournament. Gary: (flashes his membership badge) Why should I if I'm already a member? Cassie: What a coincidence! Cassie reaches into her backpack and pulls out her membership badge. Gary: No way! You're in the Pokémon League? Cassie: Yep. Hey, you're a third level rookie? Gary: Well, since last week, anyway. Cassie: Wait a minute! Where are your cheerleaders? Gary: They... kinda left me. Cassie: Really? I knew those ditzes couldn't do anything right. Gary: (getting angry) For your information, those ditzes ran out on me! Cassie: Serves you right. The group would still be around if I was a member! Gary: Forget it, Cassie! You may have beaten me when it comes to Pokémon battling, but as a cheerleader, let's just say you don't know a split from a cartwheel! Cassie: What? You wouldn't know talent if it came up to you and kissed you! Gary: Is that so? Cassie: (in thought) Why did I say that? Geese, why does my mouth always have a mind of its own? Gary: Anyway, I don't have time for your jokes, Cassie, so get out of my way. I'm on my way to Cerulean City. Cassie: Well, you're not getting there without going through me, Gary! Gary: Cassie, I'm not that interested in Pokémon battles anymore. Cassie: Yeah, right. Let's get started. Two-on-two! Gary: Cassie, I said I don't do Pokémon battles! Cassie: Yeah, and I'm still waiting for a Pikachu to shock me back to reality. (throws a Pokéball) Come out Meowth! Meowth: Meowth! Gary: I told you, I'm not going to battle you! Cassie: Not even if I said this was an official League match? You're going to need all the points you can muster if you want to make the cut in May! Gary knew that she was right. If he wanted to pass the next requirements test in May, he'd have to get a few more wins under his belt. Gary: (to himself) Okay, one battle, and that's it. Cassie: Hey, I'm not planning to sleep over, so let's get started alright! Gary: (kisses his Pokéball before throwing it) Arcanine, go! Arcanine: Arrrrrr! Cassie: (smiles) I knew you couldn't resist a good challenge. Meowth, slash attack! Gary: Right back at ya, Cassie! Arcanine, ember attack! Meowth dodges the attack and begins to slash away at Arcanine. Cassie: Good work, Meowth. Now it's time for a pay day! Meowth begins to fling coins at Arcanine. Gary: Arcanine, take down! Arcanine pushes its way through the coins and knocks Meowth to the ground. Cassie: Now, Meowth, use the fury swipes! With that, Meowth begins to scratch away Arcanine's energy. Gary: Arcanine, bite it! Just as Meowth releases the last bit of energy in its fury swipes attack, Arcanine uses its remaining life force to bite into the cat. Both winded and weak, Meowth and Arcanine fall to the ground. Gary: (pulls out Arcanine's Pokéball) Arcanine, return! Cassie: (retrieving Meowth's Pokéball) Meowth, return! Gary: Looks like that Meowth of yours is pretty powerful, Cassie! Cassie: Your Arcanine's got a nice bite. Unfortunately, Gary, it is I who will win this match. Gary: In your dreams! (with the usual routine, throws out a Pokéball) Nidoking, go! Nidoking: Nido! Cassie: (throwing her Pokéball) And against your Nidoking, it's time for Bulbasaur to come out! Bulbasaur: Bulbasaur! Gary: Looks like you haven't evolved your Pokémon, Cassie. That's going to be your big mistake. Cassie: I seriously doubt that, Gary. Bulbasaur has been in intensive training. He rarely loses, and I'm sure he'll be able to beat that Nidoking of yours! Gary: We'll see! Ready, Nidoking? Cassie: Let's go, Bulbasaur! Gary and Cassie: (simultaneously) Attack! Narrator: Who will win in this battle between Gary Oak and Cassie Banks? You fans at home get to decide the result. There are several possible endings: (1) Gary wins, and Cassie decides to quit training altogether. (2) Cassie wins, and Gary allows her to be a lone cheerleader by his side. (3) Gary and Cassie stop battling because they've fallen in love. (4) Either Gary or Cassie wins, and both promise that they'll fight again. (5) __________________________________________ (fill in the blank) Narrator: Pick one of the results above and actually write the scene that produces that result. The rules are simple to follow: (1) You may send as many entries as you want, but only one entry per e-mail. (2) The deadline for entries is 3:00 p.m. eastern standard time on February 29, 2000 (subject to change). (3) Entries must be no longer than 2 pages long. Narrator: After the deadline has passed, a select few entries will be placed in "Bloopers," a special which will feature some of the funniest moments of the season. If your entry is used, you will be notified by e-mail and be credited for your work. Remember to send all entries to The Freedom Fighter. His e-mail address is listed at the end of this fanfic. Good luck to all! [6] ************************************************************************ "Here Comes the Fine Toothed Comb" ************************************************************************ Saturday, March 12, Cerulean City Amphitheater, 7:30 a.m. Narrator: Usually, people spend Saturday mornings sleeping in late. Unfortunately, a select few have sacrificed that pleasure for another joyous event. Daisy: Like, those banners should be over there! Put the flowers by the altar! The refreshments go in the press box! Don't lift that piano by yourself! Why doesn't anyone around here have any brains? Narrator: Like I said before, joyous. Up in the press box, Lily and Violet were busy preparing the area for the after wedding banquet. Lily was putting down a white tablecloth on one of the tables, while Violet was trying to decide what food should go where. Violet: Maybe the fruit cocktail should be here next to the salad. Or should it be over by the homemade brownies? Lily: Violet, stop worrying so much. Violet: Worrying? All you're doing is putting down tablecloths. Besides, a banquet can be ruined if all the food isn't in the right place. For example, the punch bowl should be next to the Styrofoam cups, and the club sandwiches should be next to the chicken, when it's done of course... Brock: (yelling from another room nearby) The chicken will be done in an hour! Violet: (yelling back to Brock) Okay, Brock. How's the pot roast coming? Brock: (yelling) Haven't started on the roast yet. Violet: What? (to Lily) I'd better start the roast now, or it'll never make it to the table. Violet leaves to help Brock in the kitchen. Left by herself, this brings up an interesting thought... Lily: Club sandwiches? Who in their right mind would bring club sandwiches to a wedding banquet? At that very moment at the Cerulean City Pokémon Gym... Ash: You guys are going to enjoy the club sandwiches I made for the banquet. Gary: Club sandwiches? What do you think this is, a birthday party? Pyro: I'm surprised the kid can cook. Anyway, I'm sure everyone will enjoy my hot wings. Rainer: They'll be more impressed with my refreshing blueberry gelatin cake. Ash: Hey! My club sandwiches are as good as anything any of you guys can make. Gary: I won't believe it until I taste it. Sparky, Pikachu, Jolteon, Flareon, and Vaporeon come into the room, all dressed in tuxedoes. Sparky: You guys aren't ready yet? You know we've got to be at the amphitheater by nine o'clock! Gary: (looking at his watch) He's right. We'd better get ready. By the way, where are Mikey, Scott, and grandpa? Ash: I think they're in the other room. In another room of the gym, Mikey and Scott are seen helping put Professor Oak's tuxedo together. Mikey and Scott are already set, but the professor has a few things out of place... Mikey: Let me tie your shoes, professor. It's good practice for me, since my brothers started teaching me. Scott: Professor, the bow tie goes here, over the top button of the white shirt, not on your belt buckle! Prof. Oak: Gee, I wonder how that got there. Scott: Whatever, professor. Prof. Oak: But seriously, this wedding's got me all spooked. What if Delia doesn't like me anymore? What if she calls it off at the last moment? [7] Mikey: I'm sure someone like Mrs. Ketchum wouldn't do that. Scott: I agree. She's a sensible woman. She wouldn't back out unless something seriously happens between now and the wedding. Over at the Waterflower residence, Misty, Sally, and a few other local girls were putting the finishing touches on Mrs. Ketchum's wedding dress. Misty: You're so lucky to be getting married, Mrs. Ketchum. Sally: Yeah. It must be great, huh? Mrs. Ketchum sighs at the thought, presenting a puzzled look from everyone. Misty: Is something wrong, Mrs. Ketchum? Mrs. Ketchum: No, Misty, nothing's wrong. Sally gets up, and tells everyone else except Misty, Mrs. Ketchum, and herself to leave the room. Sally then walks back over to Mrs. Ketchum. Sally: Now, come on. I'm only thirteen, and I can tell when something's bothering a person. Mrs. Ketchum: Well, if you two promise not to tell anyone, not even Samuel. [8] Misty and Sally: (simultaneously) Who's Samuel? Mrs. Ketchum: Professor Oak. Misty: You mean Samuel's his first name? Sally: (stifling a laugh) No wonder everyone calls him Professor Oak. Mrs. Ketchum: Now girls, let's not pick on the professor. Sally: Okay, Mrs. Ketchum. Mrs. Ketchum: Anyway, the thing that's troubling me is... my old husband. Misty: You mean you were married before? Mrs. Ketchum: Yes. But it was short lived, thanks to something that took place over ten years ago... (Begin flashback, Saffron City ten years ago - Mrs. Ketchum and Mr. Ketchum (in his early twenties at the time) are sitting at home, when a knock comes from the door. They open it, and two uniformed men stand there with a piece of paper.) [9] Mr. Ketchum: Oh, Miranda and Masters. What brings you two here? Miranda: Jeremiah, our squadron's been called to duty. Mr. Ketchum: (surprised) What? Masters: Lieutenant Foster said we have to report at the military base at eight o'clock tonight. We're then flying to join the war in Indonesia. Mrs. Ketchum: No! He can't go! He just got back from six months of sea duty! He's seeing his son for the first time! He can't go back now! Mr. Ketchum: (grabbing hold of his wife) Honey, I can do that later. My country needs me. Mrs. Ketchum: (beginning to cry) But... what if you never come back? Mr. Ketchum: Don't worry. I'd never want to be away from the woman that's been in my life for twenty-one years. With that, Mr. Ketchum packs his things, kisses Mrs. Ketchum and a very young Ash, and then leaves with the other two officers. (End flashback) Misty: So what happened? Mrs. Ketchum: Well, they arrived on the battlefield forty-eight hours later. Ten days after that, they were ambushed by an enemy unit. Not one member of the team survived. Some of the bodies, including Jeremiah's, were never found. This causes Mrs. Ketchum to break out in tears. Misty pulls out a handkerchief and hands it to Mrs. Ketchum, who promptly blows her nose. Sally: Maybe today's not a good day to get married, Mrs. Ketchum. Mrs. Ketchum: (who has stopped crying) No. Jeremiah wouldn't have wanted it that way. He would've wanted me to continue on. If I don't go through with this, I may never feel happy again. Misty: (kneels in front of Mrs. Ketchum and smiles) Then go. You know you want to. Professor Oak knows you want to. Everyone wants to see you two get married. But no one more than Jeremiah. Sally: Misty's right, Mrs. Ketchum. Even as pretty as you are, you might never get a chance like this again to marry such a talented man as Professor Oak. Mrs. Ketchum: Okay then, Misty, Sally. Let's get the others in here and finish this dress! Misty and Sally walk off to find the other girls. Sally: Is Mrs. Ketchum always like this? Misty: No. She's usually bubbly and happy. It's like we're seeing another side of her. Sally: Weird, huh? Misty: Yeah. Say, how about after the wedding, we get to know each other a little better? Sally: Sure. I'd like to talk to the girl that Ash is always referring to. Misty: Huh? Sally: I'll explain later. Shortly after noon, the wedding began. A crowd of over four hundred was gathered for the ceremony. At the altar stood four people. The priest and Professor Oak are up front, facing the center aisle. Daisy is off to their left, while Gary stands by himself to their right. Gary: Are you sure you're ready for this, grandpa? Prof. Oak: Of course, Gary. I'm ready. The priest nods to the pianist, who begins to play "Here Comes the Bride." Everyone stands up as the doors open. The procession is led by a group of young children, the boys dressed in white tuxedoes, the girls in lavender dresses. Daisy: Don't they look so cute? Gary: Cute? Not really. Next came a Pokémon procession, led by the city's Nurse Joy and Officer Jenny. Daisy: A Pokémon procession? How does this fit into a human wedding? Gary: I kind of like the idea. We can show off our Pokémon and watch two people get hitched at the same time. (notices that Daisy is glaring angrily at him) Don't look at me! It wasn't my idea, Daisy! The Pokémon were given special sitting, behind the small group of family and close friends that crowded the front row. Next came Misty, in her own white flowing dress. She was dubbed as the flower girl for the wedding. Ash, the best man, followed behind her, with Pikachu by his side. Ash: Now remember Pikachu. You hand me the little black box when the priest asks for the ring. Got it? Pikachu: (using his two-fingered victory pose) Pika pi! Daisy: Don't Misty and Ash look nice together? Gary: For once I agree with you. Those two are peas in a pod... a very small pod. Misty: (shouts at the top of her lungs) I'll never be the wife of someone like Ash! Of course, the music stops and everyone turns towards Ash and Misty. Ash: Gee, tell the whole world, why don't you? (in thought) She's probably joking. I mean, after that kiss she gave me a couple months of go, there has to be something between us, right? Right? Misty: (silently thinking) I didn't want to do that, but I'm not the type of person who wants a romantic relationship to get in the way of my natural personality... at least not here in the open. Prof. Oak: Will you guys just be quiet and let the ceremony continue? Ash: Wow! I didn't know Professor Oak was so anxious to get this over with. But why? Misty: (whispering to him) It's something you're too young to know at this age, Ash. Ash: What's that supposed to mean, Misty? The two would have broken out in a fight right there in the middle of the aisle, if Mrs. Ketchum hadn't decided to pick that moment to begin her walk to the altar. Ash and Misty take their places up front as the music started up again. Since Mrs. Ketchum couldn't get a hold of her father, the only other male in the family that's still alive, other than Ash, Brock offered to escort her to the altar. Violet was the last to enter, carrying the tail end of Mrs. Ketchum's very long wedding dress. As the three approached the altar, this sparked a small conversation between Nurse Joy and Officer Jenny. Joy: If I didn't know better, I'd say that Brock's enjoying this. Jenny: Who knows? If we're lucky, Mrs. Ketchum will change her mind and marry Brock. Joy: Then we won't have to worry about him trying to bother us for a date! Jenny: Yes! Freedom at last! Joy: You said it, Officer Jenny! Brock and Violet took their respective places, the music stopped playing, the congregation sat down, and then the wedding began... Priest: Ladies and gentlemen, we are gathered here to wed this man, Samuel Oak... The mentioning of Professor Oak's first name brought out a few laughs from the congregation. Priest: ... and this woman, Delia Ketchum, in holy matrimony. The ceremony continued on for about an hour. It finally came down to the exchange of vows. Priest: Do you, Samuel Oak, take this woman to be your lawfully wedded wife, to have and to hold, to caress and to cherish, for richer and for poorer, in sickness and in health, 'til death do you part? Prof. Oak: I do. Priest: And do you, Delia Ketchum, take this man to be your lawfully wedded husband for the same reasons? Mrs. Ketchum: Why did you cut it short? Priest: Because I've got to do another wedding at two o'clock. Now, do you? Mrs. Ketchum: I do. Priest: The rings, please. Pikachu hands Ash a small black box. Ash takes the ring out and gives it to Professor Oak. Misty takes out a similarly looking ring and gives it to Mrs. Ketchum. Professor Oak: (putting the ring on Mrs. Ketchum's index finger) With this ring, I be wed. Mrs. Ketchum: (doing the same for Professor Oak) With this ring, I be wed. Priest: Okay then, if no one objects to these two being wed, then I now pronounce you two husband and wife. Professor, you may now kiss the bride. Professor Oak lifts the veil and gives Mrs. Ketchum a short, passionate kiss, resulting in a giant happy uproar from the congregation. The newlyweds led the way to the press box for the after wedding banquet. There, everyone chowed down on some very scrumptious food, which was hastily prepared by Brock, Lily, and Violet. Then came the moment of truth, as Mrs. Ketchum prepared to throw the wedding bouquet. Mrs. Ketchum: Ready, girls? Mrs. Ketchum throws the bouquet over her shoulders towards the group of unmarried girls, who scrambled for possession. The bouquet bounced around several times and finally settled in Misty's arms... who was sitting down and not even participating in the first place! Misty: What? Daisy: That certainly surprised me. Lily: Yep. Our little sis is going to get married before us! Misty: Married? Before you? Ash: (coming close to Misty) Does it bring any ideas to mind, Misty? Misty: I'll show you ideas, Ash Ketchum! Misty begins to chase a laughing Ash Ketchum around the room, swinging the bouquet at every chance she can get, which happily entertained the other four hundred or so guests in the room. Narrator: And so, a happy day has taken its place over the mysterious blue aura of Cerulean City. Let it be known that today, two restless souls finally can put their past behind them, and move on with their newfound lives. ************************************************************************ Narrator: Thank you for joining us for this special fanfic. "Misty's Travels to the Pokémon League" and "Dreams Do Come True" will resume their runs next week. Until then, let the journey continue, and remember that you've gotta catch 'em all! The End Author's Notes: [1] & [6] These contests are over, so no new entries will be accepted. If you wish, though, take a free guess! Who knows? You might be right! [2] & [3] These flashbacks come from Episode 14 of this series. [4] The cheerleaders were never formally assigned names, so I'm giving one to the speaking cheerleader. I will assign others at a later date. [5] The previous "Three Short Stories" edition occurred in Episode 6. [7] In the original, I had given Mrs. Ketchum the first name of Marie. Of course, this was before the second Pokémon movie and the dubbers officially gave her the name Delia Ketchum. [8] Same as the previous note... I had assigned Professor Oak the first name of Larry. The dubbers, in Episode 117 (by Japanese numbers), assigned the professor the first name of Samuel. [9] At this time, there is still no information on Mrs. Ketchum's former husband. This scene will stay in unless the creators of the series decide to unveil that mystery in a future episode of the anime. Copyright Date: 1/31/00, Revised: 12/19/01, Second Revision: 1/12/02 Revisions from the Original Release Include: - A few more grammatical corrections are taken care of here. - As noted in the Author's Notes above, Larry Oak and Marie Ketchum have become Samuel Oak and Delia Ketchum. Second Release Revision: - The description of Stephanie from the original/first revision matched the same profile as Samantha, who debuts in Season 2. I've corrected it so that the correct profile of Stephanie is listed in the story. Next episode... the gang goes their separate ways once again. Next time, we'll see Misty, Scott, Todd, and Mikey continue on to Cinnabar Island. Wait, make that the Safari Zone instead. There, Zapdos appears again, and so does Team Rocket to capture the legendary bird! Luckily, Misty's secret defender also comes to her rescue to help! It's Episode 24, "Ditto for Zapdos."