As they sailed across the boundless sea, the endless blue made Yong marvel at the ocean's grandeur and majesty.
The cruise ship passed through the strait east of Mossdeep City. Watching the Space Research Center's iconic rounded roof slowly disappear from view, Yong turned to the two little Pokémon beside him and said with a smile,
"All right! How about we head downstairs, have a look around, and try some of the food?"
"Larva~"
"Lar!"
Larvesta and Larvitar had been cooped up for far too long, and both let out happy cries.
Yong perched Larvesta on his shoulder. As for Larvitar, at 0.9 meters tall and 83 kilograms, the little Pokémon was already well past the stage where Yong could casually carry him around.
Thanks to the Uncut Jade and Ground Membrane he carried with him, Rock- and Ground-type energy was constantly reshaping the little Pokémon's physique. Although there was no more Primordial Stone Milk, Larvitar's long growth period meant he benefited far more thoroughly than Steelix and the others had. This would be a great help when he eventually evolved into the "desert tyrant."
Outside his door, a long corridor stretched in both directions. Yong took the elevator straight down to the first floor of the passenger decks.
The place was already bustling with people and chatter.
Small theaters, casinos, bars, hot spring baths, gyms, and swimming pools were scattered throughout the first floor. There was even a small library and a dance hall.
The sheer variety of entertainment left Yong dazzled.
People moved constantly from one venue to another. Friends gathered in groups, while strangers enjoyed themselves on their own. Everyone looked perfectly at ease.
Caught up in the atmosphere, Yong began to feel excited too. Of course, his destination was at the far end: a lavishly decorated