Knowing our heroes are still en-route to Olivine, Team Rocket lie in wait. Dressed as scientists, they explain they've just repaired the amazing "PokePod." To test it out, Pikachu is placed in the pod and locked in tight. When Team Rocket reveals their true identity and runs, Ash and Co. are chase in hot pursuit. When they catch up to Team Rocket, there isn't a PokePod or Pikachu in site! Realizing Wobbuffet was hiding for the hand off, Ash chases after it. In Wobbuffet's quick retreat, it trips dropping the Pikachu containing PokePod and falls into the rapids of a nearby river. Since the only way to release Pikachu from the PokePod is the key around Wobbuffet's neck, Ash, Misty, Brock and Team Rocket begin an all out race to find Wobbuffet first.