Ash, Dawn, and Brock are back in Twinleaf Town at the end of their long journey together. Ash and Brock's boat to Kanto leaves that afternoon and the three finally realize that their journey is ending. Johanna tells everyone that Hermione from the Hearthome Collection wants Dawn and Buneary to come back to Hearthome City in order to shoot pictures for a magazine. Because of this, Dawn will not be able to go to Kanto with Ash and Brock. Piplup becomes overwhelmed with sadness and anger and runs off. With only a few hours left until Ash and Brock leave, everyone must find Piplup and say their goodbyes.