As Ash is training, he faces a new rival, Morrison, who tries to challenge Ash in any way possible. After having a number of challenges, Ash's Pikachu and Morrison's Beldum get captured. In order to rescue them, Morrison and Ash team up to battle Team Rocket by themselves.

The heroes arrive to Slateport City, where they meet up with May's mother, Caroline, as well as her rivals, Drew and Harley. Harley, despite his past incidents, tries to bond with May, suggesting she should have only Beautifly use Silver Wind. May, unaware of Harley's true motives, starts to take liking to this idea. Suddenly, the group hears that Norman is in town, too, and go to check that out.