Chapter 213 - 213: Disheartened Murkrow
After Haunter's training ended, Cain made him return to his shadow. Then, he reserved a private room in the Pokémon Center cafeteria and enjoyed a large meal with his Pokémon, especially Slowpoke, who had worked all day and was eating almost as much as Miltank.
During the meal, Miltank looked at Slowpoke in surprise, as if wondering, "Since when do you eat this much?" Slowpoke simply replied with a sound and continued eating, which, in turn, increased Miltank's appetite. Due to these two big eaters, Cain's meal cost almost twice as much as usual.
After dinner, Cain discreetly headed to Vermilion City's black market.
Strictly speaking, Vermilion City is one of the cities under Team Rocket's control. Although they only control the dark side of the city, that's enough. After all, one of the three top Executives is the Vermilion City Gym Leader.
Therefore, Vermilion City's black market is also under Team Rocket's control, and as one of Team Rocket's business partners, the Hunter Guild enjoys a very high position here.
Cain was wearing a black cloak, almost identical to the one he wore before, and Murkrow was perched on his shoulder. However, for some reason, Murkrow didn't seem to be in a good mood. Despite looking imposing on Cain's shoulder, the latter, who knew him better than anyone, understood what he was really feeling.
"Murkrow, every Pokémon has its own role, and you've done yours in the best possible way. It's just that there haven't been suitable battles for you recently, which is why you feel this way." Cain understood that Murkrow had always taken on the role of older brother in the team, looking after the other Pokémon.
However, as he watched the other Pokémon surpass him one by one, Murkrow began to feel a bit uneasy. Slowpoke, who was once his equal, had now completely surpassed him. If it weren't for the Dark-type advantage, he probably wouldn't be able to beat him in a fight.
Sneasel, who joined the team later, initially didn't get along with Murkrow, but after several attempts by the latter to befriend him, both Pokémon now got along well.