Chapter 739 - 738: The Usual Absentmindedness
With Marshtomp’s evolution complete, the intensive training of the two small Pokémon under Cain’s care was also coming to an end.
Although it was now possible to evolve Poliwhirl into Politoed, Cain considered that Poliwhirl was not yet fully ready. It wasn’t a matter of lacking energy or skills but rather a physical and overall development that had yet to reach its optimal point.
Cain had no problem allowing his Pokémon to evolve before reaching the maximum limit of their potential, as long as it was something that could be corrected later. However, if it meant an irreparable sacrifice for their future development, he preferred to delay the process.
It wasn’t worth compromising his Pokémon’s potential just for a tournament, even if it was the Sinnoh Tournament.
With Swampert now evolved and in a recovery phase due to the quality-enhancing potion’s side effects, Cain increased the pace of his journey.
Until now, he had been moving slowly through Mount Coronet to train both Marshtomp and Poliwhirl, but with the former now evolved and the latter reaching level 36, the focus would shift.
The next to receive more attention would be Slowking, along with other Pokémon from his main team.
There were still four days left before the tournament began, of which Cain would dedicate three to intense training and reserve the last one to reach Hearthome City, where the event would be held, allowing time for rest.
With this change, Cain withdrew Poliwhirl and sent out his strongest Pokémon to train: Drapion, Slowking, Florges, and Gengar, who took on the main battles.
Additionally, to keep other members from falling behind, he summoned Honchkrow and Weavile, thus assembling his first team of six.