Pokemon: Ghostbound

"Charizard, use Dragon Dive!"

With Tyson's command, Charizard soared into the air, blazing like a fiery comet before crashing down with tremendous force. The impact overwhelmed the Ursaring, leaving it unconscious.

After the battle, Tyson fed Charizard a few energy cubes, his usual post-battle ritual, and treated its minor injuries. Compared to the defeated Ursaring, Charizard's wounds were barely worth mentioning.

This level of care was part of a trainer's responsibility. In a town setting, Tyson might have allowed Charizard to engage in prolonged close combat, which could result in more significant injuries. However, out in the wild, he prioritized tactics that utilized Charizard's strengths while minimizing risk. After all, even with potions and remedies, the absence of a Pokémon Center meant healing took more time.

Once Charizard was tended to, Tyson turned his attention to Ursaring.

Truthfully, he wouldn't have bothered, but Kuroda Masae was watching.

Although Tyson didn't particularly enjoy having her along, his superior, Shadow, had insisted. Left with no choice, Tyson begrudgingly agreed. To maintain a positive image, he now found himself pretending to care, even for defeated wild Pokémon.

Tyson also crafted an explanation for Kuroda Masae regarding her "rescue." He explained that the dire situation had forced him to fake her death to distract their pursuers, a move made possible thanks to a Provocation maneuver. This strategic deceit had allowed him to slip away unnoticed.

Though she appeared to believe his story, Tyson wasn't entirely sure what Kuroda Masae thought of him. Regardless, he trusted Shadow's ability to manage the situation. By the time the Kuroda family tried to retaliate, Tyson planned to be strong enough to deal with them on his own.

As they continued their journey, Tyson focused on navigating the forest while ensuring they avoided detection.

"We're nearly through the forest," he assured Masae. "Once we reach Saffron City, we should be safe. Even if someone pursues us, my Kadabra can teleport us directly to the city outskirts. I doubt they'll dare to make a move so close to civilization."

"Understood," Masae replied, her tone softer than usual.

Tyson noticed her occasional glances at Sylveon, his beautiful yet aloof companion. Despite her efforts to befriend Sylveon, the Pokémon remained indifferent, causing Masae to act like a persistent admirer.

Later, as the group reached an open grassy area, Tyson announced, "Let's stop here for lunch. Would you prefer broth or fish stew?"

Masae hesitated, her expression betraying fatigue with the limited menu.

"Actually... I could cook something," she offered. "It's the least I can do to thank you for saving me."

Surprised but intrigued, Tyson handed her his supply bag. "Be my guest. Let's see what you can whip up with these ingredients."

Masae's swift and confident movements suggested she had plenty of experience. Tyson decided to let her take over and watched curiously as she prepared their meal.

As the aroma of freshly cooked food filled the air, even Sylveon and Charizard seemed restless, eager for the meal to begin. Finally, Masae presented a small feast.

"Here you go. Please, try it!" she said with a smile. It was the first time Tyson had seen her smile so brightly since they'd met.

"Thank you, Masae," Tyson said, deciding to use her first name after her insistence earlier.

With his permission, Charizard and Sylveon dug in enthusiastically, clearly impressed. As Tyson enjoyed the meal, he couldn't help but notice the mild annoyance emanating from Ditto, still confined to its Poké Ball.

He made a mental note to treat Ditto to a special meal when they reached Saffron City.

After lunch, their relationship grew warmer. Masae seemed more willing to talk, and Tyson learned about her background: before the Kuroda family found her, she had been running a small restaurant alone after her mother's passing. Her exceptional cooking skills were a product of those years of hard work.

Tyson couldn't help but pity her. Life with the Kuroda family likely hadn't been kind. Perhaps aligning with Team Rocket would offer her a better chance at a stable and safer life.

Meanwhile, Sylveon, while still aloof, began tolerating occasional pats from Masae during meals, though that was as far as it went.

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