Sacha enters the forest near Arborville on his Johto journey with Misty and Brock. He discovers an unconscious boy named Sammy and rushes him to safety. Learning Sammy is displaced in time and must protect the mythical Celebi, Sacha immediately pledges his help. He fiercely opposes the Iron-Masked Marauder, who uses Dark Balls to corrupt Pokémon. Sacha resists the villain's attempts to capture Celebi, coordinating the effort to guide the injured Pokémon toward the Lake of Life's healing waters. His athleticism shows during forest chases and confrontations as he navigates difficult terrain to evade threats. In battles against the Marauder's corrupted Pokémon, Sacha commands strategically. He directs Bayleef against Dark Scizor, overcoming its Double Team, and aids Sammy's Charmeleon. When Celebi falls under the Marauder's control, Sacha courageously climbs the draconian structure formed by Celebi's powers to reach the Pokémon directly. He tries to break the corruption by appealing to Celebi's memories and inherent goodness. Sacha forms a quick, meaningful bond with Sammy through their shared mission to protect Celebi. He shows visible sadness when Sammy returns to his own time, though Professor Oak later reassures him about friendships enduring across time. Sacha's connection with Pokémon extends beyond battle; he swims and plays with Celebi during its recovery at the Lake of Life. His distress is palpable when Celebi appears to die after its corruption, though he witnesses its resurrection by other Celebi across time. His willingness to risk himself resurfaces during the climax. He clings to the Marauder's jetpack to prevent Celebi's abduction, ultimately requiring rescue by Celebi after the jetpack fails. Sacha consistently opposes those who harm Pokémon or the natural world, aligned with his sense of justice.