Ep 35. The Wayward Wobbuffet

Brock and Misty are busy with their own interests and always seem to be getting lost, unable to help Ash in his journey to the Johto League. Without a gym leader in town, Ash uses this opportunity to train with his Pokemon. A comical situation arises when Team Rocket's Wobbuffet escapes after being involved in a mishap and ends up in Ash's camp. Wobbuffet decides to join Ash, much to the chagrin of Misty and Brock. Meanwhile, Jessie, James, and Meowth are trying to find Wobbuffet as their boss is demanding his return.

Wobbuffet's outlandish behavior turns out to be his childishness, as he is under the impression that he is merely playing a game. Ash tries to make Wobbuffet understand that he needs to be more serious if he wishes to win battles. During training, Ash encounters a wild Charmeleon. After a fierce battle, Charmeleon becomes Ash's first Johto Region Pokemon.

Jessie, James, and Meowth are busy looking for Wobbuffet when they encounter Team Rocket. A battle between the two teams ensues, and Ash's Wobbuffet accidentally helps Team Rocket escape. Ash and the gang run into them, and another battle ensues, with Pikachu getting hurt. Ash decides to use his newly captured Charmeleon and, with Wobbuffet's help, defeats Jessie and James. Wobbuffet finally understands the seriousness of battle and decides to stay with Ash to learn more.

The episode concludes with Ash and friends continuing their journey towards the next gym leader.