Ep 41. Overjoyed

Ash, May, Max, and Brock finally arrive at the Battle Pike. Before they even get inside, they see a trainer running out of the building in tears. Upon asking her what happened, she reveals that she lost her battle against the Pike Queen Lucy. She explains that Lucy's pokemon has the ability to perfectly mimic its opponent's attacks, making it nearly impossible to predict its moves. Despite this news, Ash is determined to challenge Lucy and win the symbol.

Inside the Battle Pike, Ash begins his battle with Lucy. He starts strong with his Swellow, but quickly realizes that Lucy's Seviper is indeed a formidable opponent. It's mimicry ability proves difficult to counter, and even Swellow's powerful attacks are being mirrored back at him. Meanwhile, May, Max, and Brock watch from the sidelines, fascinated by the intense battle taking place before them.

Lucy reveals her next pokemon, a Milotic, and Ash switches to Pikachu. However, Pikachu finds himself in the same predicament as Swellow, unable to land a hit on Milotic without it being copied and used against him. As the battle reaches its climax, Ash is faced with an impossible decision - continue the battle and risk losing, or forfeit and admit defeat.

In the midst of this internal struggle, Ash has a vision of his old friend and fellow trainer Richie. Richie encourages Ash to trust in himself and continue the battle, reminding him of the joy and excitement of the journey. Ash regains his focus and decides to forge ahead, determined to overcome the odds and prove himself as a worthy opponent.

The battle between Ash and Lucy reaches its ultimate conclusion in an epic showdown between Pikachu and Milotic. Despite the copied attacks and intense pressure, Pikachu manages to land a powerful hit on Milotic, finally breaking through its mimicry ability. Ash and Pikachu are declared the winners of the battle, and Lucy hands over the symbol as a sign of their victory.

Overjoyed at the success of the battle, Ash celebrates with his friends and revels in the joy of their shared journey. As they continue on their way, they realize that, win or lose, the most important thing is the experience and the bonds they've formed along the way.