One Love, One Heart

Chapter 47: More Than This

The friends were at a crossroads. One road led south to the port. The other led north to Pewter City and beyond. Ash, May, Misty, Drew, Gary, and Pikachu prepared to part ways.

"Looks like this is it, guys," Gary noted. Misty stood by his side.

"It was really great to see you guys again," Misty felt a mix of sadness and gratefulness for the shared time with her friends.

"I know we'll see each other again soon," May was optimistic about a reunion in the future with her friends.

Ash agreed, "It's only goodbye for now. I'll be excited to hear what you guys have been through when we meet again." The boy was eager to see his friends continue to fulfill their dreams.

"Pikachu," the mouse expressed his optimism as well.

Drew looked at Gary and Misty. "It was incredible to meet the two of you. I didn't expect to meet a gym leader and Professor Oak's grandson on this trip," Drew humbly admitted.

"The pleasure was all mine," Gary expressed his respect for the coordinator.

Misty smiled, "Even if things didn't start on the right foot, I am glad we all shared experiences and became even greater friends." The girl remembered how far their friendship had come from just a week ago.

"Until the next time, then," Ash put his hand forward with a thankful smile for everything they went through. May, Misty, Drew, Gary, and Pikachu placed their hands over his.

"Promise everyone will take care?" Misty softly grinned.

"Promise," May answered enthusiastically.

Gary winked at Ash, "You better take good care of her, Ashy boy."

Ash chuckled, "Of course." The boy looked lovingly at his beloved.

"May everyone keep growing and finding success in their endeavors," Drew flicked his hair.

"Pika!" Pikachu cheered for his friends.

"Always!" the five friends said simultaneously in response to Drew's remark. Then, they broke their hands away as they separated.

"So long!" Misty yelled as she and Gary went north. They waved goodbye to Ash, May, Pikachu, and Drew as they walked south. Even if it was sad to see them go, nothing made her happier than seeing Ash grow and find love. She knew he was in good hands with May. The gym leader waved until they were gone from sight. "Best of luck, you two," Misty whispered as she turned to see Gary was a few steps ahead. "Wait up, Gary," the gym leader ran after him.

"How long do you plan on staying in Pallet Town?" Drew looked at the trio with wonder.

Ash put his hand on his chin. He was disappointed he didn't have a definitive answer, "We're not sure."

"Ash and I want to go to a new region that hosts contests and leagues. We're sure there has to be one," May responded with a pensive face. It was important that their blossoming relationship could continue on the road.

Drew turned to the shore they were walking by for a second and turned back to his friends, "I have a place in mind."

"Where, Drew?" Ash and May asked him with puzzled faces. Even Pikachu was curious to hear.

Drew smiled. "How does Unova sound?" the coordinator reminded them of the region where Hydreigon and Audino were from. "After that incident, I was curious to learn more about that region. It may be farther away, but they host contests and leagues there. Since it's a region neither of you have been to before, I think it'd be the perfect place for you."