Ninjagofanjayandnya

This is for you cuz

You really need friends like Gary

The morning sun rose slowly over the horizon, casting a warm glow through the trees as the sounds of the Pokémon world began to stir. Gary woke up early, feeling a heavy weight in his chest. After the emotional night they’d had, he felt a gnawing anxiety about Ash. He knew where Ash was; he had a gut feeling that his friend would retreat to their special spot near the riverbank, where they often went to think and reflect.

With determination, Gary set off toward the river, weaving through the tall grass and brush. As he approached, he could see Ash sitting against the trunk of an old

oak tree, his head bowed low. Gary’s heart sank at the sight of him; Ash’s shoulders trembled slightly, a clear sign that he was crying.

“Hey, Ash,” Gary called softly, trying to keep his voice gentle.

As soon as Ash heard Gary’s voice, he quickly wiped his eyes and turned his head away, his back pressing firmly against the tree. “Go away!” he shouted, his voice choked with emotion.

Gary frowned but stepped closer, refusing to give up. “Nuh-uh,” he replied firmly, standing his ground. “I’m not leaving you alone, not like this.”

“Why would an accomplished trainer like you want to be friends with someone who isn’t even good?” Ash’s voice trembled as he spoke, each word laced with self-doubt and pain.

That statement struck Gary like a punch to the gut. “What? Ash, you’re not serious, are you?” he said, his voice raising slightly in disbelief. “You think just because you’re having a rough time that I’m going to walk away? You’re my friend, and that’s what matters!”

Ash remained silent, still hiding his face behind his hands. The tears streamed down his cheeks, a waterfall of frustration and sadness that he couldn’t seem to stop.

Gary took a deep breath and decided to close the distance. He knelt down next to Ash and gently pulled him into a tight embrace. “Ash, please. Just let it out,” he murmured, holding him close. “I’m right here. You’re not alone in this.”

Ash stiffened for a moment, surprised by the sudden warmth and comfort. But as Gary’s words sank in, he melted against his friend, the walls he had built crumbling around him. “I’m so tired of feeling this way,” he sobbed uncontrollably into Gary’s shoulder. “I just want to be good enough. I want to be a great trainer like you!”

Gary felt Ash’s body shake with each cry, and he tightened his grip, wanting to shield him from the pain. “You are good enough, Ash! You’ve worked so hard to get where you are, and no one can take that away from you! You’ve beaten Gym Leaders, saved Pokémon, and made so many friends. Don’t let what some dumb reporter said make you forget that!”

“But they’re right! I’ve messed up so many times!” Ash protested between sobs, his voice muffled against Gary’s shoulder. “Maybe I’m not cut out for this.”

“Stop it!” Gary said sharply but softened his tone immediately. “Look, everyone messes up sometimes. I’ve seen you grow and learn more than anyone else. Even the best trainers have failures along the way; it’s part of the journey. You’ve got to believe in yourself as much as I believe in you.”

Ash pulled back slightly, his tear-filled eyes meeting Gary’s. “But what if I fail again?” he whispered, vulnerability etched across his face.

“Then we’ll face it together,” Gary replied, a determined glint in his eye. “You don’t have to carry this weight alone. You have me, you have Professor Oak, and you have your Pokémon. We’re all here for you, no matter what. So let’s stop thinking about what could go wrong and focus on what you can do!”

Ash took a deep breath, the words sinking in like a soothing balm. “You really think so?” he asked hesitantly, the flicker of hope igniting in his heart.

“Absolutely!” Gary exclaimed, smiling brightly. “Now, let’s get you back to camp. Grandpa is probably worried sick about you. He was searching everywhere, pacing like a Pidgey stuck in a tree!”

At the mention of Professor Oak, Ash managed a small chuckle, wiping his eyes with the back of his hand. “Yeah, I can imagine him pacing.”

“Come on!” Gary said, standing up and offering his hand to Ash. “Let’s go face the day together, Ashy-boy!”

With a small smile forming on his lips, Ash took Gary’s hand and stood up. “Thanks, Gary,” he said quietly, feeling a sense of warmth returning to his heart. “I really needed that.”

“Anytime,” Gary replied, ruffling Ash’s hair playfully. “Now let’s get back and show everyone why you’re an awesome trainer!”

Or

The morning sun filtered softly through the trees, casting dappled light on the forest floor. Gary woke up early, the events of the previous night still fresh in his mind. His stomach churned with worry as he realized he couldn’t find Ash. Knowing his friend well, Gary felt a sinking certainty about where Ash might be—back behind the old oak tree where they often played as kids, the place where Ash found solace in times of trouble.

As he made his way through the underbrush, Gary’s heart raced with each step. “Ash!” he called out, voice tinged with urgency. “Where are you?” He reached the oak tree and peered behind it, spotting a familiar figure hunched over, trying to wipe away his tears.

“Ash?” Gary knelt beside him, concern etched across his face.

Ash quickly looked up, panic flashing in his eyes. “Go away, Gary,” he said, his voice shaky as he turned his head to avoid Gary’s gaze. “I don’t want to talk.”

Gary shook his head firmly. “Nuh-uh, no way! You’re not getting rid of me that easily. I’m not leaving you here all alone.” He could see the tears glistening on Ash’s cheeks, and his heart ached for his friend.

“Why would an accomplished trainer like you want to be friends with someone who isn’t even good?” Ash’s voice cracked, and he looked away, ashamed.

“Ash,” Gary said softly, his tone full of sincerity. “That doesn’t matter to me. You’re my friend, and friends don’t abandon each other. You’re one of the best trainers I know, and I’ve seen how hard you work. Just because some stupid news reporter said something hurtful doesn’t change that.”

Ash let out a soft sob, his shoulders shaking as he tried to hold back the flood of emotion. “But I messed up, Gary! I can’t be good like you and the others. I’m just... I’m just a failure.”

Before Ash could pull away further, Gary reached out and hugged him tightly, wrapping his arms around him in a comforting embrace. “You are not a failure, Ash! You are so much more than that! You’ve saved Pokémon, you’ve won battles, and you’ve inspired so many people. Just look at everything you’ve accomplished!”

Ash’s body shook as he cried, feeling the warmth of Gary’s words seep through the haze of self-doubt that surrounded him. “But they don’t see it that way,” he murmured, tears spilling down his face. “They only see what they want to see.”

“I know,” Gary replied, holding Ash even tighter. “But you have to believe in yourself like I believe in you. You’re capable of so much, and it hurts me to see you like this.”

With a deep, shuddering breath, Ash buried his face in Gary’s shoulder. “It’s just hard, Gary. I thought I could be strong, but... I feel so weak.”

Gary gently pulled back, keeping his hands on Ash’s shoulders. “Listen to me, Ash. It’s okay to feel weak sometimes. Everyone does. Even I do. You don’t always have to be strong; you just have to be yourself. You’re human, and that’s what makes you relatable and inspiring. You’re not alone in this.”

Ash looked up, his eyes still red but filled with a flicker of hope. “You really think so?” he asked, his voice barely above a whisper.

“Absolutely,” Gary assured him. “You’ve got the heart of a champion, Ash. Just look at all your friends who care about you, like me and Professor Oak.”

“Ash, Gary! Where are you?” Oak’s voice called from a distance, breaking through the moment.

“Here, Grandpa!” Gary shouted, glancing back at Ash, whose expression softened slightly at the mention of Oak.

When Oak approached, he took in the sight of Ash’s tear-stained face and Gary’s supportive stance. “What’s going on here?” he asked, kneeling beside them.

“Just having a little chat,” Gary replied, ruffling Ash’s hair playfully despite the situation. “You know, trying to remind Ash that he’s a great trainer.”

“Did you hear that, Ash?” Oak added gently, placing a hand on Ash’s back. “You have so much potential, and you’re surrounded by people who love and support you. It’s okay to have setbacks; what matters is how you rise up again.”

Ash looked between the two of them, feeling the warmth of their encouragement seep into his heart. “I... I guess I just forgot that for a moment,” he admitted, sniffling but managing a small smile.

“That’s all right,” Gary said, smiling back. “What matters is that you remember it now.”

“Let’s get back home and make some breakfast,” Oak suggested, standing up and extending a hand to Ash. “How does that sound?”

Ash took Oak’s hand, feeling a renewed sense of purpose. “Yeah, I’d like that,” he replied, the weight of his doubts beginning to lift.

As they started to walk back, Gary kept pace beside Ash. “And hey, don’t think you’re off the hook yet. We’ve got to train together later so you can show everyone just how great you really are!”

“Okay,” Ash said, his voice stronger now. “I’m ready to prove myself again.”

Or....

The morning sun rose with a golden hue, casting a warm glow over the landscape as Gary stretched awake, ready to face the day. After the tumultuous events of the previous night, he felt a sense of urgency to check on Ash.

“Grandpa!” he called out, searching the grounds. “Have you seen Ash anywhere?”

Professor Oak was outside tending to some plants. He looked up, concern etched on his face. “I thought he would be in the house. He didn’t come back last night?”

Gary’s heart sank. “No, and I have a feeling I know exactly where he is.”

Without waiting for a response, Gary sprinted toward the familiar grove of trees where he often trained with Ash. As he approached, he noticed a small figure huddled behind a large tree, his shoulders shaking slightly. Gary's heart raced. He rushed forward, concern flooding his thoughts.

“Ash?” he called gently, though he had a sinking feeling he already knew the answer. “Are you back here?”

From behind the tree, Ash peeked out, his eyes red and swollen, evidence of the tears he had shed. “Go away, Gary,” he said, his voice muffled and shaky, trying to sound stronger than he felt.

“Nuh uh. Not a chance.” Gary stepped closer, determined to break through whatever wall Ash had built around himself. “I’m not leaving you alone.”

“Why would an accomplished trainer like you want to be friends with someone who isn’t even good?” Ash’s voice cracked, filled with self-doubt.

Gary felt a surge of frustration at Ash’s words. How could his friend think so little of himself? “You are good, Ash! You’ve worked harder than anyone I know. You’ve beaten challenges that would make most trainers give up!”

Ash shook his head, tears spilling over as he wiped his eyes with the back of his hand. “You don’t understand. Everyone else sees it too. I’m just not cut out for this.”

“No!” Gary stepped closer and, before Ash could protest, he wrapped his arms around him in a tight hug. Ash felt stiff at first, but then he melted into Gary’s embrace, sobs escaping him as he clung tightly.

“Ash, listen to me,” Gary said softly, holding his friend tight. “You are so much more than what others think. You’re brave, you’re kind, and you never give up. That’s what makes you a great trainer!”

Ash’s sobs echoed in the quiet of the woods. “I just... I don’t know if I can keep doing this. What if I fail again?”

“You will never fail in my eyes, Ash,” Gary said firmly, pulling back slightly to look into his friend’s tear-stained face. “You’re my best friend, and I’ll always be here for you, no matter what happens.”

“Why do you care so much?” Ash asked, his voice barely above a whisper, confusion and vulnerability evident in his expression.

“Because you matter to me, Ashy-boy,” Gary replied, a small smile breaking through. “You’ve been there for me too, remember? We’ve had each other’s backs through thick and thin. Just because I’ve won more battles doesn’t mean I’m better than you.”

Ash’s heart swelled at Gary’s words. He felt a flicker of warmth amidst the cold doubt that had engulfed him. “You really mean that?”

“Of course I do! Now, come on. Let’s head back. Grandpa is probably worried sick, and I don’t want to give him another reason to start lecturing us about how important friendship is,” Gary teased lightly, trying to lighten the mood.

“Okay,” Ash sniffled, finally pulling away from the hug, though he kept his hand on Gary’s shoulder for support. He wiped his eyes one last time and took a deep breath, trying to collect himself. “Thanks, Gary.”

“No problem,” Gary said, giving him an encouraging nod. “Just remember: you’re never alone. We’ll figure this out together, like we always do.”

As they walked back toward Professor Oak’s house, Gary glanced sideways at Ash. “You know, if you ever need to talk about anything, I’m here. You can always count on me.”

“I know,” Ash replied, feeling a sense of relief washing over him. The warmth of Gary’s friendship was a comforting reminder that he wasn’t alone in this journey. “And I really appreciate it.”

“Good. Now, let’s go find Grandpa before he sends out a search party,” Gary said, grinning mischievously.

“Yeah, we don’t want him to worry,” Ash said with a small smile of his own, his spirits lifting just a bit.

The morning sun peeked through the leaves, casting dappled light on the forest floor as Gary awoke to find an empty space beside him where Ash had slept. His heart sank. He quickly jumped out of bed, recalling the events of the previous evening and the emotional turmoil they had faced. Deep down, he already had a sinking feeling about where Ash might be.

“Grandpa!” he called out, rushing toward Professor Oak, who was sipping a cup of coffee on the porch. “I can’t find Ash!”

Professor Oak set his mug down, concern etching his features. “What do you mean? He was here just last night!”

“I think I know where he is,” Gary said, his mind racing back to the secluded spot in the woods that had become a refuge for Ash during tough times. “I’ll go check it out.”

“Be careful, Gary. He might be feeling vulnerable,” Oak replied, his voice filled with a mix of worry and encouragement.

As Gary made his way through the underbrush, he called out Ash’s name, but there was no response. The familiar sounds of Pokémon and rustling leaves surrounded him, but all he could hear was the sound of his own heart racing. Then, he caught sight of a familiar tree—one with low-hanging branches that provided perfect cover.

“Ash?” he said softly, approaching the tree cautiously. As he peered around, he spotted Ash huddled against the trunk, his back to Gary. The sight of his friend’s slumped shoulders sent a wave of concern crashing over him.

“Go away,” Ash’s muffled voice came, filled with a mix of pain and frustration.

“Nope, not happening,” Gary replied, stepping closer. He took a deep breath, knowing he needed to reach Ash somehow. “Ash, I’m not leaving you alone like this.”

Ash’s voice trembled. “Why would an accomplished trainer like you want to be friends with someone who isn’t even good?”

At that moment, Gary felt a surge of determination. “Because I see the real you, Ash. You’ve done things that most trainers could only dream of. You’ve saved Pokémon and stood up for what’s right. You’ve fought hard, and that matters more than any title.”

“I messed up yesterday,” Ash said, wiping his eyes with the back of his hand, trying to hide his tears. “What if they’re right? What if I really am a terrible trainer?”

“Stop it!” Gary exclaimed, his voice firm but gentle. “You are not a terrible trainer! You’re one of the best! You’ve come so far, and just because of what some random reporter said doesn’t change that.”

Ash turned slightly, just enough for Gary to see the raw pain in his eyes, the vulnerability that he so often tried to hide. He looked away, shame washing over him. “I just feel so lost, Gary.”

In that moment, Gary couldn’t hold back anymore. He rushed forward, wrapping his arms around Ash in a tight embrace. “You’re not lost, Ash. You’re right here with me, and you always will be.”

Ash stiffened for a moment, surprised by the sudden affection, but then he melted into the hug, letting his guard down. Sobs escaped him, each one shaking his body as he buried his face in Gary’s shoulder. “I’m so tired of feeling this way,” he cried, his voice thick with emotion. “I thought I could be strong, but it just hurts too much.”

Gary held him tighter, resting his chin on Ash’s head. “It’s okay to feel this way. You don’t have to pretend to be strong all the time. Everyone has their moments of weakness. You’re human, Ash. Just let it out.”

“I just wanted to prove everyone wrong,” Ash sobbed. “I wanted to show that I’m worthy of being a Pokémon Master.”

“And you are worthy,” Gary reassured him. “You don’t have to do it alone. Remember what I said last night? We’re a team, Ash. You have me, and you have Grandpa. We’re in this together.”

After a long moment, Ash’s sobs began to quiet, the warmth of Gary’s presence slowly calming the storm inside him. He pulled back slightly to look into Gary’s eyes, still teary but now tinged with a hint of hope. “You really mean that?”

“Of course I do,” Gary said, smiling softly. “You’re my friend, Ashy-boy. And friends stick together, no matter what.”

“Thanks, Gary,” Ash whispered, wiping his eyes again and trying to compose himself. “I didn’t mean to hide from you. I just... I felt ashamed.”

“There’s nothing to be ashamed of,” Gary replied, brushing his hand through Ash’s hair affectionately. “Just promise me you won’t hide like this again. I want to help you, okay?”

“I promise,” Ash said, nodding slowly. “I’ll try.”

“Good!” Gary said, stepping back and offering his hand to Ash. “Now, let’s get you back home. Grandpa’s probably wondering what we’re up to, and I’m sure he has breakfast ready for us.”

As they walked back, side by side, Ash felt lighter, as if a weight had been lifted from his shoulders. He looked at Gary, who was walking with his head held high, and felt grateful for the friendship they shared.

“Hey, Gary?” Ash said, breaking the silence.

“Yeah?”

“Thanks for being there for me. I really don’t deserve it.”

“Stop it, Ash!” Gary replied playfully, rolling his eyes. “You definitely deserve it. Now, let’s get back to the real world before Grandpa sends out a search party!”

The morning sun filtered through the trees, casting a soft golden light across the forest floor. Birds chirped cheerfully, and the distant sound of water flowing added to the tranquility of the scene. However, in stark contrast to the peaceful setting, a heavy silence hung in the air around the spot where Ash had been the night before.

Gary rubbed the sleep from his eyes and let out a sigh, scanning the area for any sign of his friend. He had a sinking feeling that he knew where Ash might be. “Grandpa!” he called out, his voice echoing in the stillness. “I think I know where Ash went.”

“Where is he, Gary?” Professor Oak replied, his tone concerned as he joined Gary in searching.

“I think he’s at the spot by the river,” Gary said, memories flooding back to the many times they had visited that place together. “It’s where he goes when he feels overwhelmed.”

Without waiting for a response, Gary took off toward the riverbank, pushing through the underbrush with determination. The further he went, the more he felt the urgency to reach Ash. He didn’t want his friend to suffer alone.

As they approached the river, Gary spotted Ash crouched behind a large tree, his back facing them. Ash was clearly trying to conceal himself, his shoulders trembling as he wiped at his eyes. The sight made Gary’s heart ache. He slowed his steps, his chest tightening with worry.

“Ash?” he called gently, stepping closer. “Hey, Ashy-boy. It’s me.”

“Go away!” Ash’s voice came out choked, filled with anguish.

“Nope. Nuh-uh,” Gary replied, shaking his head as he continued to close the distance. “Not happening. You can’t get rid of me that easily.”

Ash didn’t turn around, but Gary could hear the shaky breaths that betrayed his friend’s pain. “Why would an accomplished trainer like you be friends with someone who isn’t even good?” Ash’s voice cracked, and it cut deeper than any harsh words from a rival.

That hit Gary hard. He could feel the tears welling up in his own eyes at Ash’s vulnerability. “Because I see you for who you really are,” he said softly, stepping right up to the tree and wrapping his arms around Ash from behind. “You’re my best friend, and you’re incredible. You don’t see it, but you’ve accomplished so much.”

Ash stiffened for a moment, then slowly sank back against Gary’s embrace, unable to hold back the sobs that erupted from deep within him. “I don’t know if I can do this anymore,” he gasped, his voice muffled. “I try so hard, and it just feels like it’s never enough.”

“Shhh,” Gary whispered, holding him tighter. “It’s okay to feel this way. Everyone has moments of doubt, even the strongest trainers. But you are more than what other people think. You’ve faced challenges that most would run away from.”

“But they think I’m a joke,” Ash cried, burying his face in his hands, the shame and hurt evident in his trembling form. “Even after all I’ve done...”

“Those people don’t matter. What matters is who you are to us,” Gary said firmly, gently guiding Ash to turn around. As Ash faced him, Gary could see the tears streaming down his cheeks. “You’ve fought alongside your Pokémon, trained tirelessly, and helped so many. You’ve saved lives, Ash. That’s what makes you a great trainer.”

“But... what if I mess up again?” Ash whimpered, his eyes wide with fear.

“Then we’ll be here to catch you,” Gary reassured him, wiping a tear from Ash’s cheek with his thumb. “We’re a team, remember? You and me against the world. I wouldn’t trade our friendship for anything. Even when you doubt yourself, I’ll be right here, standing by your side.”

Ash’s expression shifted, a flicker of hope breaking through the storm of despair. “You really mean that?” he asked, his voice small.

“Of course, I do! You think I’d be here if I didn’t?” Gary smiled, his own emotions spilling over as he fought to remain strong for Ash. “You’re not just my friend; you’re like a brother to me. I won’t let you go through this alone.”

“Ash?” Oak’s voice called from a distance, as he approached. “Gary, is he with you?”

“Yeah, Grandpa, he’s here!” Gary shouted back, still keeping his arms wrapped around Ash.

Professor Oak stepped into view, his expression filled with concern and warmth. “Ash, my boy, I’m glad I found you,” he said softly, his gaze gentle. “I know things feel heavy right now, but it’s okay to ask for help. We all need it sometimes.”

Ash looked up, his eyes locking onto Professor Oak’s. “I don’t know how to make it stop,” he admitted, his voice cracking again.

“You don’t have to make it stop alone,” Oak said, crouching down to Ash’s level. “You have people who care about you, and we’re here to help. You’re stronger than you think, and this doesn’t define you. It’s just a moment, and moments can change.”

With those words, the dam broke, and Ash felt the weight of the world begin to lift off his shoulders. Surrounded by the support of his friends, he nodded, allowing himself to feel vulnerable. “I... I’ll try,” he said softly, his voice trembling but filled with the slightest hint of determination.

“That’s all we ask,” Gary said, smiling through his own tears. “Just take it one step at a time, and remember that you’re not alone. We’ll face whatever comes next together.”