Ash and Nessa

Chapter Two -- Misty Encourages Ash

Ash noticed yesterday's mail, still unopened. One colourful envelope looked interesting and was addressed simply to "the Gym Leader". Technically, that was Misty, since he was only there two days a week, but curiosity overcame him and he opened it. He read it and went to find Misty.

He found her in the swimming pool, exercising with some of her water Pokémon. Misty was a year or so older than Ash, and about the same height. She looked nice in her costume, he thought, so he spent a moment enjoying looking at her before he announced his presence. If only she'd get rid of that lopsided ponytail, he mused, she'd look perfect.

Misty noticed him. "What are you gawking at?" she shouted.

"Hey Misty, have a look at this letter."

With a Vaporeon's ease, Misty swam up to the side of the pool and lifted herself out.

"What's up, Ash?"

"Viridian's hosting a Gym Leaders' Championship. It says, 'the inaugural Pokémon Gym Leaders' Championship is a knock-out competition and is open to the first sixteen gym leaders that apply.' Do you want to go?"

"When's it on?"

"Uh...it's two weeks from today."

"Oh, what a shame," replied Misty. "My sisters have something planned, and I won't be able to get out of it. Hey, Ash, why don't you go?"

Ash looked doubtful. A few months ago he would've jumped at such a chance. But that was when he still had Pikachu. Since then, the loss of his closest Pokémon had adverseley affected Ash's confidence. Gym challengers were no problem, since most of them had little experience. Even when he lost, he was pleased to hand out a badge and see the happy look on the challenger's face. But facing other gym leaders, most of them more experienced than him, was another matter.

Misty, as usual, could see right through him. "Ash, if you put your mind to it, I think it'll do you a lot of good. You know Pikachu didn't win all of your battles. You've got plenty of great Pokémon."

"Do you really think I stand a chance, Misty?"

"I'm behind you all the way. Where's the Ash Ketchum I used to know?"