With Lapras officially joining the team, Maen took the time to introduce his new companion to his other two Pokémon.
"Gengar, Deino, this is our new family member, Lapras. You should take good care of her. Lapras is the only sister in our team."
After Lapras' treatment at the Pokémon Center, Maen learned that she was female and still very young—less than two months old. Despite being the youngest, Lapras was the largest in the team, towering over Deino and even Gengar.
Gengar and Deino immediately surrounded Lapras, showing their excitement. Gengar even offered some of his snacks from the Last Resort, eager to share with their new teammate.
However, Maen quickly intervened. "Gengar, those snacks are meant for Ghost and Dark-types. Lapras won't be able to handle the taste."
Gengar pouted but obediently put the snacks away. Lapras, observing the playful yet genuine warmth of her new companions, smiled and began to hum a gentle melody.
The song was not only beautiful but also deeply soothing. Maen, Gengar, and Deino all found themselves mesmerized, their minds calming under the soft, enchanting tune. Even Gengar, usually mischievous, sat quietly and listened in admiration.
---
A Stroll Through Shallot City
With Lapras now officially part of the team, Maen decided to explore Shallot City at a leisurely pace. He recalled all his Pokémon except for Gengar, who remained in his shadow, and wandered through the city's lively streets.
Shallot City was famous for three major attractions: the bustling harbor, the iconic Glitter Lighthouse, and the renowned Shallot Restaurant. There was also the Shallot Gym, where trainers could challenge the local Gym Leader. However, Maen wasn't particularly interested in gym battles, so he set his sights on the lighthouse and the restaurant instead.
The Glitter Lighthouse was a marvel, standing tall against the coastline with its powerful beam illuminating the sea. While the view was breathtaking, it was the Shallot Restaurant that left a lasting impression on Maen.
Located west of the Pokémon Center, the Light Green Restaurant was a well-known spot, especially among sailors. It prided itself on serving large portions designed to satisfy the appetites of seafarers after long voyages.
Upon entering, Maen was greeted by the lively atmosphere of the restaurant. Unlike more traditional eateries, this place felt more like a tavern. Groups of sailors laughed boisterously, clanking their mugs together, while others broke into hearty songs. The rich aroma of grilled seafood and hearty stews filled the air, making Maen's stomach growl in anticipation.
He snapped a quick picture of the lively scene with his Pokédex before sitting down to order. The portions were as generous as advertised, and by the time he finished his meal, he could barely move.
"I should've taken it easy..." he muttered, rubbing his full stomach as he made his way back to the S.S. Anne.
---
A Silent Threat
As night fell, the S.S. Anne remained brightly illuminated, standing out against the dark ocean. However, the cover of darkness also concealed dangers lurking in the distance.
Far from the ship, a man in pirate attire stood atop a Sharpedo, watching the cruise liner with a sinister smile.
If Maen had been there, he would have recognized him immediately—Jack, the ruthless captain of the Bloody Hand Pirates, whose crimes had recently been reported in Alliance news.
---
The Journey Resumes
The following morning, the S.S. Anne set sail once more after spending three days docked at Shallot City's harbor. These three days were not only for tourists to explore but also for the ship to restock supplies, ensuring there was enough food and fresh water for the voyage ahead.
During the day, Maen dedicated time to training his Pokémon in the ship's training room. Of course, Lapras wasn't required to battle—her role was to support Gengar and Deino by singing after their training sessions, helping them relax.
In the afternoons, Maen took his Pokémon on sightseeing trips around Shallot City, enjoying the scenery and local attractions. By night, they returned to the ship for well-deserved rest.
As the cruise ship sailed onward, Maen noticed a subtle but unsettling presence. That morning, after finishing their usual training, he felt as though someone was watching him. Having the power of darkness heightened his perception, making him particularly sensitive to malicious intent.
At first, he brushed it off as paranoia, but as the day went on, the feeling persisted. The unsettling gaze disappeared in empty corridors but resurfaced whenever he entered crowded areas, such as the main hall or the deck.
Whoever was watching him was experienced, skilled at avoiding detection. But now that Maen was aware of it, he planned to catch them.
Feigning indifference, he continued gazing at the sea, feeling the cool ocean breeze against his skin. He watched as Wingulls and Pelippers soared above the ship, proof that they were approaching the Hoenn region.
Then, as if finally satisfied, he turned and casually walked back inside the ship.
---
The Stalker Revealed
From a distance, a man dressed in a sailor's uniform, leaning against the railing, started moving.
Maen kept up his act, walking toward his cabin as though unaware of being followed. The disguised sailor maintained his distance, keeping Maen in sight but never getting too close. However, as Maen entered a quieter corridor, the man stopped.
He hesitated, clearly aware that following in an empty hallway would be too risky. Instead, he waited near the entrance, planning to leave once he had confirmed Maen's room location.
However, just as he turned to retreat, a chilling presence stopped him in his tracks.
Standing before him was a black Gengar, its crimson eyes glowing eerily in the dim light. A mischievous, yet menacing grin stretched across its face.
Before the man could react, Gengar's eyes pulsed with energy. The sailor's body tensed, his limbs going numb. A cold wave of paralysis washed over him as he slowly collapsed to the ground.
Maen emerged from the corridor, watching as his shadowy companion finished the job.
"Good work, Gengar," he murmured.
He crouched next to the unconscious man and searched his pockets, pulling out a folded piece of paper. Opening it, he found a sketch of his own face, accompanied by a brief description.
A hit list.
A smirk played on Maen's lips. "So they've finally made their move."
Pocketing the paper, he signaled for Gengar to return. The situation had just become more interesting. Whoever was after him had made a mistake—because now, Maen was hunting them.
---
To Be Continued…
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