In the competitors' lounge, Ash set five Poké Balls on the table, his gaze firm as he gave everyone one final pep talk before the match.
Tyson had just visited. He had high hopes for Ash, and they had agreed to meet again in the next round.
Ash felt full of strength now!
Elsewhere, Young Master Mao stared at Archer, the corner of his mouth twitching wildly.
"Young master, need me to break your little hometown buddy's legs? That way, you can get a bye~" That was what Big Brain had said.
Young Master Mao covered his face and pointed behind Archer. "Leaving aside whether you could beat Ash, why don't you ask these people if they agree?"
Archer turned around and found himself looking straight at Gintoki, Raven, and Uncle Koga, who had come to cheer Gary on...
"Young man, you've got some nerve." Gintoki ground his teeth. "You bastard, you just can't stop eating sh-!"
"Why waste words?" Raven slammed his fists together. "Put down your Poké Balls. Let's start with a punch!"
"Holy shit!" Archer's eyes nearly popped out. "Young master, I've got something to take care of. I won't be bothering you for a while..."
The helpful citizen bolted, and the two police officers took off after him.
"Well then, good luck with the match. I'll be going." Uncle Koga nodded, formed a Hand Seal, and vanished on the spot...
Young Master Mao didn't know whether to laugh or cry. "What a bunch of characters. Now I'm not even nervous~"
"Competitors, please prepare to enter~" The organizing committee's announcement came over the loudspeaker.
Young Master Mao stood and flicked his long white coat. "Let's go see just how much Ash has grown."
He passed through the Dark Competitor Tunnel into brilliant light. Gary's Championship Tournament had