Yong let Gary tug at his sleeve, looking helpless as Gary and another little kid dragged him out of Professor Oak's laboratory...
It was the third day since he and Cynthia had arrived in Pallet Town. Since Professor Oak was also an invited guest, they had decided to travel to Jecolla Island with him.
And only in his fourth year in the Pokémon World had Yong finally met the protagonist of the original story!
Yes, it was none other than "Ash," Gary's friend and rival!
Ash was only eight years old that year, with another two years to go before he could receive his first Pokémon!
That would also be when the original story officially began!
Looking at the little kid's innocent face, with its faint hint of goofiness, Yong gradually began to see the future Ash in him.
"Yong! Gary said you're a really, really amazing Pokémon Trainer! Is that true?"
In the courtyard behind the laboratory, Ash leaned toward Yong expectantly, his eyes seeming to sparkle with stars.
"You dummy, Ash! Didn't I tell you already? He's the guy who discovered 'mega evolution'!"
Gary stood nearby with his arms folded across his chest, acting like a grown-up as he gave his friend a haughty look.
But Yong frowned.
The guy?
"Show a little respect when you say my name, you little rascal! I won't be as gentle as Cynthia! Got it?"
Yong gently ruffled the kid's hair with one hand, smiling at Gary's disgruntled expression. Ignoring his protests, he turned to Ash with a warm smile.
"That's right, I'm Yong. You're Ash, aren't you? You can call me Yong too, so... what did you drag me out here for?"
"Why, you..."
"Hmm?"
Seeing Yong turn toward him with another frown, Gary hurriedly covered his mouth, then said with