Before Arceus left Onigashima, these Trapinch had already been created. Dig is a signature move of most Ground-type Pokémon, and they all have the ability to create underground caves.
However, among the many Ground-type Pokémon, Trapinch is quite special. Not only can they dig, but they are also experts in creating underground traps. Additionally, they have unique requirements for water sources.
Trapinch themselves do not have a high dependency on water, but their evolution is different. Their evolution process is similar to Larvitar, involving a cocoon-like stage. To evolve smoothly into Vibrava, they need an environment with ample water sources.
In the Pokémon world’s Izabe Island, there is a dangerous area known as the Trapinch Underground Labyrinth, where the surface is covered with Trapinch nests.
Although it appears to be an arid environment, it hides a secret: a vast underground lake lies beneath the surface. This is why Trapinch were sent here—the island’s abundant underground rivers can meet their water needs.
Their innate ability to create traps can enhance the security level of the underground labyrinth, and their evolution requirement makes them well-suited to the island’s specific environment.
Their nests, which resemble mortars used for grinding, are deadly traps designed so that once prey falls in, they can’t climb out. Even without evolving, they are more than capable of serving as guards.
Once they evolve, their strength becomes even more terrifying.
“Ehh, these guys seem a bit silly. Are they really okay?”
On the deck, many Trapinch were struggling to right themselves with the help of their companions. Although their growth environment requires water, they are still Ground-type Pokémon and typically do not travel by ship.
A small-scale tsunami had just appeared on the sea surface, causing many Trapinch to flip over on its back, making apparent the shortcomings of their body structure.
Their large jaws are their survival weapons, capable of easily crushing rocks, but their big head also made them top-heavy. Once overturned, it is hard for them to flip back over on their own.
When a group of Trapinch falls over, it creates quite a comical scene.
“When has anything created by Lord Arceus ever had a problem? It’s just that this isn’t the place for them to showcase their abilities. Come, instead of standing around watching, help flip them over.”
A few pirates joined the Trapinch rescue team. As the pirate mentioned, their activities were restricted by the ship. If they were on land, they could simply dig a hole right into the ground and then adjust their body.
But since they were on a ship, doing so would turn the ship into a raft within a few days, eventually sinking it. Hence, the situation of Trapinch “dying in action” en masse occurs.
As for why these people were so enthusiastic, it is the current custom of the Beasts Pirates. The Pokémon created viewed them as allies, but only in terms of faction reputation.
Pokémon would not attack them but also did not particularly like them, treating them as familiar strangers.
To get along well with Pokémon, you need to build your individual reputation with them. Currently, becoming familiar with Pokémon has only benefits and no downsides.
For example, in the Wano Country’s patrol teams, those who could gain the approval of Mightyena could become small leaders, but if even Mightyena looks down on them, they could only be nameless foot soldiers.
This is just one example. Many positions could only be held by those who got along well with Pokémon. Every time a new Pokémon is created, more positions open within the Beasts Pirates, aligning with Beasts Pirates’ expansion goals.
These newly created Trapinch were seen by the pirates as a path to promotion. As for why they were so eager for promotion, it had much to do with their captain. Mandrell had already gathered a large number of “corporate slave” type talents under his command.
Their goal was to strive for promotion and then retire comfortably with a good position.
While some were busy building their affinity with Trapinch, others were boldly teasing them, such as Ulti.
She was currently using the fish that Page One had just caught as bait, waving it in front of a Trapinch. These seemingly adorable guys were actually true carnivores, with jaws strong enough to easily snap the bones of a human’s hand bone.
After several failed attempts to catch the fish, the Trapinch was visibly becoming annoyed.
“Sister, isn’t this too dangerous…”
“It’s fine, it’s not like I’m not going to let it eat. I’m just playing with it.”
As she spoke, a Trapinch managed to bite onto the fish. Seeing the neat cut on the fish’s body, one could estimate the force Trapinch used. After a few more attempts, Page One also began to get nervous.
“Enough, Sister, there’s only half a fish left. This is too dangerous!”
“It’s fine, there’s still plenty left. What are you afraid of?”
“Of course you’re not afraid! Because that’s my hand!!”
With that, Page One pulled his hand away, tossing the fish tail that was tied to it to the Trapinch.
Earlier, after he had caught the fish, Ulti had suddenly tied it to his arm and started this dangerous game.
At first, it was relatively safe, and he didn’t resist much, but as the remaining part of the fish got shorter and shorter, he became really scared. He used his ability to break free from Ulti.
“Alright, Page One, enough fooling around. Go scout that ship over there. Its course seems a bit off.”
Mandrell’s voice interrupted the siblings’ antics, or rather, saved Page One from his misery. Many on this ship were originally scouts, so scouting usually wouldn’t fall to the siblings.
However, this trip was meant to train the siblings, so Mandrell sent Page One out.
They are now near the entrance to the New World. Here, the Beasts Pirates’ flag’s deterrent effect starts to wane. New pirates were most overconfident during three stages: just after setting sail, upon reaching the Sabaody Archipelago, and when they enter New World.
At these times, they dared to try anything. Watching the ship’s course, Mandrell felt something was off.
“Got it.”
No matter the task, getting away from Ulti’s clutches was a good thing. Page One jumped over the side of the ship and took to the sky, but some things can’t be avoided just by flying.
He needed a buffer to take off, and during that time, Ulti had already jumped onto his back, firmly grabbing onto his dorsal fin.
“Sister!”
“Let’s go, let’s go! Hurry up and scout, don’t mind the small stuff!”
Watching the siblings take off, a nearby underling grumbled about their lack of professionalism.
“Boss, aren’t they too young? Being so reckless, they aren’t suitable for scout work.”
“Everyone needs some training. Get ready for battle; I think there’s something strange about that ship…”
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