Ep 1. Following a Maiden's Voyage

Ash Ketchum has just arrived in Sinnoh, and he’s excitedly anticipating all the new people, Pokémon, and places to explore. His first stop is an unfamiliar town where he meets the good-natured Professor Rowan and his assistant Dawn, Ash's new traveling companions. Determined to be a great Pokemon trainer, Ash decides to take part in the region’s first competition, but first he must choose his starting Pokemon from three unique options provided by Professor Rowan.

The first episode of Pokemon Season 10, ‘Following a Maiden’s Voyage!’ follows Ash, Pikachu, and Dawn as they set out on their journey. The group begins by getting to know each other better and taking in the stunning sights of the Sinnoh region. Ash finds himself torn between the decision of choosing a new Pokémon from the three options provided by Professor Rowan which are Chimchar, Turtwig, or Piplup! While he does have his sights set on one in particular – he can’t help but wonder if there’s another choice that would suit him better.

Meanwhile, their first adventure sees the group encounter an unknown and mysterious Pokemon, which leads them on a heart-racing chase. As they continue to travel, they run into an enthusiastic young trainer named Barry, who is keen to battle Ash right away. As Ash and Barry face off, tensions grow higher, and the two trainers bring out their best Pokemon to battle it out.

Ash is forced to rely only on his Pikachu in this first battle, as he has yet to decide which starting Pokemon he wants to bring with him. Barry is a skilled trainer with a strong desire to win, but Ash's experience and adaptability help him come out victorious with Pikachu. Barry vows to challenge Ash again in the future.

As they continue their journey, Ash meets a new rival in Paul, who takes a different approach to training Pokemon. While Ash wants to bond and grow alongside his Pokemon, Paul sees them merely as tools to be used. As the two trainers interact more, it becomes clear that they have vastly different approaches to the world of Pokemon, which sets the tone for future clashes on their journey.

The overarching theme of the ‘Following a Maiden’s Voyage!’ episode is the idea of starting anew – with both a new region and companions. Both Ash and Dawn are eager to make friends and become better trainers, while Professor Rowan sees it as an opportunity to learn more about the region's many Pokemon.

As the episode comes to a close, Ash finally decides on his starting Pokemon – Chimchar. He and his team eagerly set their sights on the next stop in their adventure, eager to build their skills, bond with their Pokemon, and take on any challenge that comes their way.

Overall, the first episode of Pokemon Season 10 is a promising start to Ash's new journey in the Sinnoh region. The animation, music, and pacing are all excellent, with exciting battles and new Pokemon to delight fans of the franchise. The themes of starting anew are very present throughout the episode, making it relatable for those who are embarking on a new journey of their own. With Ash and his friends on a new adventure, it's sure to be an entertaining and thrilling ride for all.