Pikachu and Togepi wake up just as the sun rises. The two of them venture out of the group’s tent and spot a strange horn in the nearby lake. Pikachu calls out to Ash, and he arrives to see a Rhydon emerge from the water. Ash tells his friends, but Misty affirms that a Rock-type Pokémon that loves swimming is unheard. A young girl, Pietra, overhears the conversation and confirms that there is, in fact, a swimming Rhydon. Brock is quick to flirt with her, but Misty pulls him aside by the ear. Pietra informs everyone that while a swimming Rhydon is unusual, this particular Rhydon has learned to use Surf. She admits that she is keen to catch the Rhydon and shows the group to a nearby tunnel. Pietra explains that she is hoping to catch it to complete a tunnel to allow her grandma to access the nearby town. Ash notices Pietra’s Dugtrio moving lumps of soil out of the way. Pietra points out that all of her Ground-type Pokémon flee from the tunnel whenever water hits them from leaks in the ceiling. Pietra thinks that if she could catch the swimming Rhydon, it could help her complete it. Brock is keen to impress and calls upon his Onix for assistance. The Rock Snake Pokémon smashes its head against the hardened rock several times, but it quickly flees after some water hits its back. After Brock’s failed attempt, Ash offers to help Pietra catch the Rhydon. Team Rocket eavesdrops on the conversation and are keen to snatch the swimming Rhydon for themselves.
