Synopsis
Back in Pallet Town, Ash and friends meet up at Professor Oak's Laboratory. The new starter Squirtle takes a liking to May, as does Muk to Professor Birch. having a quick drink before lunch, Ash tells everyone about the Battle Frontier Challenge that Scott invited him to. May decides to join him on her quest to conquer the Kanto Grand Festival. Outside, Ash introduces May and Max to Snorlax. As Munchlax greets his evolved form, a stampede of Ash's Pokémon comes to greet him. Tauros and Ash have some fun, and Bayleef greets Ash happily. Later, Team Rocket attacks again, and Professor Birch tries to help. Professor Oak and Delia remain calm and say that Ash can handle it himself. He and the others do handle it fine, and Team Rocket goes blasting off again. Professor Oak gives Ash and May new Pokédexes, May's a different color: gold. Max asks to have one but Tracey gives him his PokéNav back with the Battle Frontier information. Squirtle decides to join May on her journey, and Ash chooses to leave Torkoal and Glalie at the Lab, along with May's Bulbasaur. The next morning, everyone heads out, with Phanpy tagging along. Just as they're leaving Pallet Town, Brock arrives, and the five friends head for the Battle Factory and Cerulean City.
