I really like how up close and personal Ash was with his treatment towards Poipole. It felt like ages since Ash openly comforted and expressed through words how much he loved his Pokémon that wasn't "we battled through tough opponents and got stronger together." It's kind of like how Lillie puts Ash in an unfamiliar position where he learns that not every situation is black and white where instead of using training as a means to bond over, or battling in general, Ash notices it's little quirks, values Poipole as an individual, and actively parents the little guy. It's pretty cute seeing Ash having to scold it when Poipole acts out (kind of reminds me of his mother.) I feel like Ash's relationship with Poipole was based more on the emotional side of him, I just loved watching scenes where Ash is explicitly comforting it and showing affection, teaching it hard life lessons, slowly influencing it into battles, and finding it hard to let go. Poipole is one of the few Pokémon that Ash actively took care of that didn't involve training it and instead, a more parental touch to their relationship. Ash's expressions and his actions stole the show... even something subtle as Pikachu reaching out and holding out his hand after learning the news and looking back at it, never taking Poipole out of his sight had meaning. It wasn't just Ash that was affected, but Pikachu as well. He too felt overjoyed and emotional when he saw Poipole's drawing with Ash... which says a lot since Pikachu is barely touched upon when it comes to goodbye scenes.
