Ep 27. Evolving Strategies!

Ash and his friends have arrived at a new town, which is hosting a Pokemon Evolution Festival. Ash is excited about the festival, but he's more enthusiastic about the battle competition that's being held as part of the event. He enters the competition along with Team Rocket, who are disguised as trainers.

Ash's opponent in the first round is a young girl named Mira. She is a skilled trainer and carries around a Pokemon egg that has yet to hatch. Meanwhile, Team Rocket's first opponent is a tough trainer named Shane. The battle continues, and Ash manages to defeat Mira's Psyduck using his own Pokemon Pikachu. During the battle, the egg that Mira was carrying hatches into a Riolu.

Ash is impressed by Riolu's abilities, and Mira tells him that Riolu still has a long way to go before it can evolve into a Lucario. However, she's confident that with the right training and strategy, Riolu can reach that level one day. Shane also manages to win his battle, and he boasts about his superior strategies. Nevertheless, James decides to challenge Shane to a battle, despite not being a particularly experienced trainer.

During the battle, Team Rocket deploy their usual tactics, but Shane proves to be too strong for them. Ash and his friends watch the battle, and they feel sorry for James and Meowth, who are constantly subjected to abuse by Jessie. After the battle is over, Jessie also apologizes to James and Meowth, promising to be more supportive in the future.

The day of the tournament finally arrives, and Ash is up against Shane in the second round. Shane boasts about his strategy, but Ash is determined to prove him wrong. They begin the battle, and Ash quickly realizes that Shane is a formidable opponent. He uses all of his Pokemon in the battle, but still the match remains neck and neck.

At one stage, Ash even tries to distract Shane by cheering for his other Pokemon, Pikachu. However, Shane manages to stay focused and lands a critical hit on Pikachu, which brings him down. Ash is devastated by his loss, but Pikachu tells him not to worry, reminding him that he's strong enough to beat Shane someday.

Meanwhile, Mira and Riolu are watching the battle from a distance. Mira encourages Riolu to step up and follow its dreams, inspiring Riolu to evolve into a Lucario. When the battle is over, Mira approaches Ash and congratulates him on his strong performance. She tells him that she's confident he will keep getting better and better over time, just like Riolu did.

The episode ends with Team Rocket making plans for their next scheme, while Ash and his friends bid farewell to Mira and Riolu. They continue on their Pokemon journey, determined to become the best trainers they can be.