Outside Sandgem Town, a sweep of electricity tore through the woods, startling a row of Starly...
"Pokémon Balls, go!" Paul hurled a volley of balls, catching the whole flock of Starly...
Smack! One of the Poké Balls bounced back off a Starly.
"Huh? This Starly already has a Trainer?" Paul looked at Young Master Mao in bewilderment.
"Starly! Are you okay?" A familiar voice drew closer.
Young Master Mao raised his eyebrows. "Well, well... a fated encounter..."
The two of them had only stopped here because Paul wanted to find a reliable Starly. Gary had never expected to run into Ash.
"Hm?" Paul looked toward the voice, and their eyes met.
"That Starly is mine!" Ash strode forward, his expression serious.
"Oh... take it back if you like, then. It only knows Wing Attack, anyway." Paul raised his eyebrows, a mocking smile appearing on his face.
"Damn it... that smile! Why does it look so familiar?" Ash bristled immediately.
"Hm? Who are you bad-mouthing behind their back?" Young Master Mao poked his head out from behind Paul with a pleasant smile.
"Ah, right! That's the infuriating smile!" Ash pointed at Gary in sudden realization!
Young Master Mao rolled his eyes. "You little punk, talking trash about me behind my back..."
"Whoa! There you are!" Ash couldn't help exclaiming, "Gary!"
"Hey! You're being far too rude to Gary!" Paul couldn't help snapping.
"What? I've always called him that." Ash wasn't happy either.
"What did you say?"
"What do you want to do about it?"
Even at their first meeting, Ash and Paul were already glaring at each other.
"Ash, technically, you're his senior. Show a little grace," Brock urged from the side.
"I know, but this guy's so annoying!" Ash huffed.
"Hmph." Paul snorted coldly. "I only acknowledge the strong. I'll