Ep 48. The Spheal of Approval!

Ash, May, Max, and Brock continue their journey to Lilycove City, the site of the next Pokémon Contest. As they walk along the beach, they come across a group of playful Spheal. The Spheal quickly take a liking to the group, and follow them throughout their journey.

However, the group soon discovers that the Spheal are being hunted by a group of poachers. Determined to protect the Spheal, Ash and his friends team up with a local Pokémon Ranger named Jackie. Jackie explains that the poachers are after the Spheal's valuable blubber, which can be sold for a high price on the black market.

The group follows the poachers to their hideout, where they discover that the poachers have trapped the Spheal in cages. Ash and his friends decide to take action, and with the help of Jackie's Pokémon, they battle the poachers and rescue the Spheal.

With the Spheal safe and sound, the group continues on their journey to Lilycove City. Along the way, they encounter a group of trainers who are having trouble with their Pokémon. Ash and his friends offer to help, and soon discover that the trainers' Pokémon are simply seeking their approval.

Inspired by this, Ash and his friends decide to hold a mini-Pokémon Contest on the beach. As they perform, the Spheal join in, showcasing their unique talents. When the contest is over, the group is surprised to find that the Spheal have awarded them with an honorary "Spheal of Approval" for their kindness and help.

With the Spheal by their side, Ash and his friends continue on their journey, ready for whatever challenges they may face next.