Ep 28. Uncrushing Defeat!

Ash and his friends have finally made it to the Veilstone City Gym, where Ash hopes to earn his seventh Sinnoh Gym Badge. But standing in their way is the tough-as-nails Gym Leader, Maylene, who specializes in Fighting-type Pokemon.

The episode opens with the group's arrival at the gym, which is designed like a temple with a giant golden Buddha statue in the center. As they make their way through the temple, Ash runs into a wild Lucario who seems to be guarding the gym. After a brief scuffle, Lucario is impressed by Ash's strength and decides to join his team.

With a new Pokemon on his side, Ash is feeling confident about his chances against Maylene. However, things take a turn when Maylene's Machoke delivers a devastating defeat to Ash's Staraptor. Ash is left reeling, uncertain of how he can possibly defeat Maylene's powerful Fighting-types.

Meanwhile, Lucario is struggling with his own doubts. He has a painful history with Fighting-type Pokemon and fears that his past failures will hold him back in battle. It takes some encouragement from Ash and his friends to help Lucario overcome his fears and regain his confidence.

With Lucario re-motivated, Ash returns to the gym for a rematch against Maylene. The battle is intense, with both sides trading powerful blows. But just when it seems like Ash might emerge victorious, Maylene pulls out a secret weapon – a powerful Lucario of her own.

The two Lucario face off in an epic battle, displaying incredible speed and skill as they dodge and weave around each other. Ash's Lucario takes a severe hit, but manages to hang on despite the odds. In a dramatic final move, Ash's Lucario unleashes an unexpected attack that catches Maylene's Lucario off guard and secures Ash the victory.

With his seventh Gym Badge in hand, Ash and his friends continue on their journey through Sinnoh, eager to face whatever challenges come their way.