Episode 114 of Pokémon Journeys , titled in the English dub, serves as a pivotal training prelude to the Masters Eight Tournament. The story centers on Ash’s return to Pallet Town for a nostalgic and high-stakes reunion with his former rivals and his vast collection of Pokémon at Professor Oak's Laboratory. A Hero's Homecoming
The episode’s emotional peak occurs when Ash unexpectedly runs into his greatest Sinnoh-era rival, , in the woods near the lab. Unlike their past hostile encounters, Paul shows a matured respect for Ash, having visited the Professor to learn more about Pokémon biology.
: Seeking to improve, Gengar is mentored by Ash’s veteran Fire-types, eventually learning the move Will-O-Wisp . The Surprise Reunion: Ash vs. Paul
Paul agrees to a 3-on-3 training battle to help Ash prepare for the specific challenges of the Masters Eight. Strategically, Paul uses Pokémon that mirror the "aces" of Ash's future opponents:
The episode emphasizes the bond between Ash's "Journeys" team and his "Reserves":
