Ash and co. arrive at Veilstone City and meet Maylene, the Gym Leader, Ash meets Reggie, Paul's brother, who takes care of Paul's additional pokemon, Ash beats Reggie, Reggie reveals some events that happened to Paul:
Paul's Murkrow evolved into Honchkrow
Paul caught a Magmar, replacing Chimchar
Paul dominated Maylene and earn the Cobble Badge
Reggie promised to help Ash teach Staravia how to use Brave Bird, Dawn declares a Gym Challenge to rebuild Maylene's confidence
Ash and friends arrive in Veilstone City where they meet Reggie who is not only Paul's older brother but a top Trainer who had accomplished as much as Ash did expect for one thing. They also meet Maylene, the Veilstone Gym Leader who apparently has some confidence issues after losing to Paul. She just hasn't been the same, so much that she decides to quit. Dawn has a talk with her and relates as she has lost two contests in a row and has taken a break. Will Maylene be able to get back what she lost? Can Ash be able to beat Reggie in a pokemon battle? And Why would Dawn request a Gym Battle?