Ep 4. Challenge of the Samurai

Ash and his friends continue their journey through the Kanto region, and their next stop is Pewter City. Along the way, they encounter a group of Bug-type Pokémon owned by a young boy named Samurai. Samurai challenges Ash to a battle, but Ash is distracted by a Butterfree that he hopes to catch later.

Upon arriving in Pewter City, Ash and his friends learn that the local Gym is closed. As they explore the city, they encounter Samurai again, who challenges Ash to a battle in the nearby forest. Ash eagerly accepts, and they agree to a one-on-one match, with Ash using Pikachu and Samurai using his Pinsir.

The battle is intense and fast-paced, with both Pokémon giving it their all. In the end, it's Pikachu who emerges victorious, but the battle has taken a toll on both trainers. They sit down to catch their breath and chat, and Samurai reveals that he's been inspired by Ash's fighting spirit and wants to become a better trainer himself.

As they continue their conversation, they are suddenly attacked by a swarm of Beedrill. Samurai's Pinsir and Ash's Pikachu work together to fend off the attack, but the Beedrill swarm is too much for them. Just when it seems like all is lost, a mysterious figure appears and calls out his Metapod to use Harden, creating a protective shell that shields the group from the Beedrill.

The figure is revealed to be none other than the Pewter City Gym Leader, Brock. He explains that he's been experimenting with different strategies for his gym battles, and that his Metapod's Harden technique has proven to be an effective defense.

Brock offers to take Ash and his friends on a tour of the gym, but they are disappointed to learn that it's still closed. Brock explains that he's been caring for his sick father, and that he can't leave him alone for too long. He also reveals that his father is the one who taught him everything he knows about Pokémon battling.

Feeling sympathetic, Ash and his friends offer to help Brock in any way they can. Brock accepts their offer and takes them to his home, where they meet his father and help care for him. In return, Brock offers to teach Ash and his friends more about Pokémon battling and help them improve their skills.

Throughout the episode, Ash learns the importance of training and teamwork in battle. He also discovers that battles aren't just about winning, but also about making new friends and improving oneself. The episode ends with Ash and his friends continuing on their journey with newfound confidence and knowledge.