Ep. 12: Chaos at Oak Lab Leads Gilbert to Choose Bulbasaur

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A Tauros stampede at Professor Oak's lab causes starter Pokemon to escape, complicating Gilbert's selection process. Gilbert, the mayor's son, initially rejects Kanto starters for being uncool. The group splits to recapture the runaways, with Gilbert and Ash's Bulbasaur heading to the mountains. Gilbert fears heights and nearly abandons the mission, but Ash's Bulbasaur repeatedly saves him and Squirtle from danger. These acts of loyalty shift Gilbert's perspective. Later, a small Bulbasaur is cornered by wild Primeape near a cliff. Ash's Bulbasaur intervenes, protecting Gilbert and the small Pokemon while scaring off the attackers. Back at the lab, Gilbert realizes the value of these Pokemon. He chooses to keep the small Bulbasaur, thanking Ash's Bulbasaur before beginning his own journey.