There's still a solution for Murkrow's quality, but as for Miltank, to be honest, Cain feels a bit worried.
Miltank was an impulsive acquisition in this life, originally intended only to provide milk for Skorupi and the other Pokémon, as well as to help recover energy after battles. However, Miltank was soon accepted by the Pokémon, and her effort was recognized by Cain.
Though Miltank only has a light green quality, Cain included her on his main battle Pokémon list.
While Miltank is primarily designated for a support role and isn't expected to make major contributions in battle, sometimes it's inevitable for her to face certain opponents.
Right now, the gap with other Pokémon doesn't seem that wide, but as levels rise and Cain's Pokémon continue to grow in strength, the difference will widen.
Miltank might not think much of this, but as a Pokémon acknowledged by Cain, he won't allow her to fall behind.
However, Miltank doesn't have the ability to evolve, and Cain doesn't know of any special items that could increase her potential, which leaves him a bit concerned.
Cain asked Steven to sell the exclusive mid-level Pokéblock to Whitney's family, hoping they might find a way to improve Miltank's quality.
Cain doesn't have the solution, but the Miltank ranch, home to thousands of Miltank, might have one, as long as the cost isn't too high.
Steven promised to give an answer within three days, and with him mediating, there might be a chance.
For now, this is the only solution Cain has come up with.
Setting this issue aside for now, as Cain's Pokémon grow stronger, the differences between them also become more pronounced.
Slowpoke, Sneasel, and Haunter are essentially Cain's first team of Pokémon, followed by Murkrow and Miltank, with Murkrow being much stronger than Miltank. Skorupi is still in the growth phase, so its strength doesn't impact Cain's overall team.
Cain's overall strength now surpasses that of a Team Rocket soldier, though it's still somewhat below that of a Captain.
So Cain has two ways to increase his strength: one is to concentrate resources on developing one or several first-team Pokémon, while still training the others, but with greater focus on the first team.
The other option is balanced development, treating all Pokémon equally.
In truth, Cain leans toward the first method, but considering his Pokémon's opinions, he hasn't rushed to make a final decision.
However, one thing is certain: since Cain is traveling under a League identity, he will likely spend one month of the next six weeks with that identity. Even without prioritizing Pokémon training, their growth speed will vary.
For example, if Cain travels with Slowpoke, it's likely to be the first Pokémon to fight against opponents.
Slowpoke will grow faster than other Pokémon.
But with a focus on resources, Slowpoke will grow even faster and could surpass other Pokémon by a step.
The benefits are clear: Slowpoke will become a symbol of Cain's League identity, and as Slowpoke improves, Cain can fight for more resources for his Pokémon, accelerating their growth.
This is a clear example of how the growth of some can drive the growth of others.
Moreover, this is a situation Cain cannot avoid. Using the League identity means it's best to use Murkrow and Sneasel as little as possible.
Unless he decides to abandon his League identity when he rises within Team Rocket, after holding onto it for a long time.
Since Slowpoke's growth is inevitable, Cain will adjust resources to make it the strongest for now.
Cain stood up and communicated all his ideas to his Pokémon.
All of the Pokémon accepted his decision without objection.
Focusing resources doesn't mean the other Pokémon will receive nothing; they will simply receive a bit less.
The Pokémon also have a broad view and understand that the growth of one Pokémon can bring many benefits to them all.
As for Slowpoke, any opposition would have no effect.
So, with unanimous agreement between the trainer and Pokémon, Slowpoke will focus on improving, striving to obtain more resources.
When Cain and his Pokémon made their decision, the S.S. Anne finally began to set sail.
With announcements echoing repeatedly, the massive and luxurious S.S. Anne began its journey toward Sinnoh's coastal city, with a stop in Slateport City in the Hoenn region, Cain's destination city.
After setting sail, Cain left his room with Slowpoke and headed to the deck.
It was Cain's first time traveling on such a large ship, and the view from the deck was said to be impressive.
Guided by the signs, Cain made his way through the ship's complex paths and reached the deck.
Today's weather was very sunny, likely because the rain summoned by the Gyarados the previous day had cleared many clouds from the sky. Now the sun was high, and the sky was clear.
When Cain reached the deck, there were quite a few people.
Many were dressed in elegant tailcoats and dresses, under large umbrellas, holding wine glasses while chatting animatedly.
There were also many people dressed more casually, clearly distant from the wealthy, gathered in small groups, chatting among themselves.
Of course, some were alone, leaning on the railing, gazing at the distant sea.
Both the wealthy and the commoners could be seen with various Pokémon.
The reason the S.S. Anne is so large is that it's primarily designed for trainers, whether common or from notable families.
Moreover, the S.S. Anne has many public facilities for trainers, with dozens of training and battle areas available.
Nearly every day, these are packed, so reservations are necessary if you wish to use them.
Of course, luxury suite passengers like Cain have their own indoor gym.
But for battles, they may need to use the public facilities.
Cain and Slowpoke reached the front of the deck, feeling the sea breeze and the warmth of the morning sun. Breathing in the salty sea air, Cain felt as if he were submerged in the ocean water.
The ship moved quickly, but given its massive size, the journey was very smooth. Standing at the bow, Cain felt no shaking, even as the waves crashed against the ship.
(End of chapter)