As Ash and his friends continue towards the Mt. Silver Pokémon Preserve to return Larvitar to its home, they stop as Brock tries to catch his breath. Meanwhile, Misty marvels at Larvitar’s improved confidence as the young Pokémon is happily being carried in Brock’s arms. Brock is unable to read his guidebook’s map for directions to the Preserve, though Larvitar leaps out of his arms and rushes over to a nearby rope bridge. The group follows, deciding that it’s leading them to it birthplace. While everyone is crossing, a periscope rises from the water, watching them. On the other side, Larvitar is cheerier than usual as it guides everyone through a forested area. In the bushes, a mecha is hidden with the same periscope aimed at them. Inside are three men, who decide to steal Larvitar after spotting it walking passed.