Following his fourth win in the Pokemon League, Ash is enjoying his day off. He goes to get something to eat, and finds his mom in the restaurant cooking for him. After the meal Ash meets another trainer named Richie who he shares a lot in common with. They begin talking when Team Rocket come by in a car pretending to be league officials saying that trainers must get their Pokemon inspected. Team Rocket made a mistake and reveal themselves, so they flee. Ash and Richie chase after them, but eventually lose them. That night they camp out by a river and talk more about their journeys. The next day they manage to find Team Rocket, but Team Rocket wake up and trap them in the back of the van as well. Now they must figure out a way to get out and return the Pokemon.

Ash is upset about losing in the Pokemon League and does not want to talk to anybody. when Misty tries to talk to him it turns into a fight. However, Ash does in the end decide to go and watch Richie's sixth round match, which he just narrowly loses. After the match Ash and Richie go out to the lake and talk about their experiences in the league. However, Team Rocket once again comes to interrupt the battle. After defeating them, the only thing left is the awards and closing ceremonies.