The sky gradually darkened. Yong had already gone back and forth between the terrace and his room several times, and anxiety had crept into his heart. To many people, Swampert was already very strong, but that was only by Elite Class standards.
Out in nature, however, they faced the entire Pokémon World!
There was no way to count all the Pokémon in the ocean, much less learn everything about them! With Swampert's strength, staying safe in an environment like that was barely possible...
"Yong! Has Swampert still not come back?"
Reggie and Akemi came over and stood side by side at the railing, gazing out at the sea. They both knew about Swampert's special training, but Yong's bold idea worried them.
Yong said softly,
"There's still time. Maybe Swampert will be back soon..."
Looking at the sky, Reggie wore a worried expression.
"These waters may be relatively safe, but nobody knows what might be out there. You're taking too much of a risk."
After a brief silence, Yong's gaze suddenly hardened with resolve. He looked at Reggie and Akemi and took three Pokémon Balls from his belt, containing Larvesta, Larvitar, and his other Pokémon, keeping only Aerodactyl.
"Swampert is my partner. If Swampert isn't back before nightfall, I'll have to leave Larvitar and the others in your care!"
Reggie did not take the Pokémon Balls. Instead, he frowned and asked,
"What are you going to do?"
Yong smiled, a smile filled with grim resolve.
"I'll go find Swampert!"
The boy pressed a hand to his chest and said softly,
"I can sense that Swampert isn't in any serious danger. Swampert is calm! With this connection, I'm confident I can find Swampert! The cruise ship rents out diving equipment and Pokémon. That'll be enough!"
Akemi shook her head.
"This is the