Ep. 1: Team Rocket's failed capture leaves Pikachu dangerously ill, prompting Ash and May to seek Professor Birch's help in the forest.

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After Team Rocket's unsuccessful attempt to capture Pikachu, the yellow Pokémon falls critically ill. With no Pokémon Center in Littleroot Town, Ash seeks assistance from Professor Birch, who believes Pikachu can be cured but must first be caught. Delirious from fever, Pikachu flees into the forest. Meanwhile, May arrives to receive her first Pokémon and saves Professor Birch from a pack of aggressive Poochyena. Before he can explain his presence, the professor chases after the missing Pikachu. As time runs out and Pikachu faces the risk of exploding, Team Rocket's latest capture device unexpectedly intervenes to save the situation.