With his luggage for Johto packed, Gary began counting down to his departure.
His main plan for today was to say goodbye to Ash and give him a little more "encouragement" along the way.
After all, Ash was the rival Young Master Mao had chosen. If Ash grew too slowly, the journey would be terribly dull.
It was worth mentioning that the fool had also successfully swept through the Orange League's Winner's Cup.
He had reached the top only a few days after Gary.
According to Ash's recollection, Drake had dark circles under his eyes, weakness throughout his body, and looked utterly drained...
Well, he was an extraordinarily tough man who could date Professor Ivy, after all. A little kidney deficiency was no big deal...
After winning a cup tournament and receiving a flood of praise from the Orange Islands' audience, Ash had gotten rather full of himself these past two days.
He declared that although he had stumbled in the Indigo League, things were different now.
With Charizard's help, beating Gary would be no problem.
Someone was coming to his door asking for a beating. Kind as Young Master Mao was, of course he would oblige.
And so, they scheduled it for today.
His packed luggage rested on the sofa. Young Master Mao sat there with his legs crossed, stroking Eevee's mane with all the air of a big shot.
He scrolled through his phone while waiting for Ash to arrive and challenge him.
The group chat was bustling, with everyone discussing where Gary would stay in Johto.
Janine: Young Master Mao's coming to Johto? I'll pick you up at the airport!
Erika sternly lectured her: As a Gym Leader, you can't just abandon your post.
Janine: It's fine. My aunt's looking after things at home. There won't be