Before Arceus left Ghost Island, these Trapinch had already been modified. Digging holes is a common skill among most Ground-type Pokemon; they all have the ability to create underground tunnels.
However, among the many Ground-type Pokemon, Trapinch are quite unique. Not only do they dig, but they are also experts at making underground traps, and they have special requirements for water sources.
Trapinch itself does not heavily rely on water, but its evolution is different. Its evolution process is similar to that of Larvitar, involving a cocoon-like stage. To successfully evolve into Vibrava, they need an environment with abundant water resources.
On Izabe Island in the Pokemon World, there's a dangerous area known as the Trapinch Subterranean Maze, where the surface is filled with Trapinch nests.
The seemingly arid environment hides secrets. Below the surface lies a giant underground lake, which is why Trapinch were dispatched here. The rich subterranean rivers underneath the island satisfy their need for water sources.
Their innate trap-making abilities allow them to further enhance the safety level of the underground maze, and their evolutionary needs make them more suited to the island's specific environment.
Their nests, which are traps for enemies, resemble a mortar and pestle. It's a death trap known for ensnaring prey that falls in, never to climb out again. Even if they don't evolve, they're well-suited as guards.
Once they evolve, the power they can unleash will naturally become even more terrifying.
"These guys seem so goofy. Are they really okay?"
On the deck, many Trapinch were struggling to right themselves with the help of their companions. Although their environment requires water, they are still Ground-type Pokemon and are not accustomed to being on ships.
A small-scale tsunami had just occurred on the sea, flipping many Trapinch upside down, which revealed the shortcomings of their body structure.
Their massive jaws are their weapons for survival, able to easily crush rocks. However, their large heads also cause them to be top-heavy, making it difficult for them to right themselves if overturned.
When groups of Trapinch topple over, the scene becomes quite comical.
"When has anything created by Lord Arceus ever gone wrong? It's just that this isn't the place for them to utilize their abilities. Let's go. Rather than standing here watching, we should help them get back up."
Several pirates joined the Trapinch rescue team. As the pirate mentioned, they were only restricted by the ship. If they were on land, they could easily gnaw out a hole in the ground and adjust their posture.
But since they're on a ship, doing so would turn the vessel into a raft within days, finally causing it to sink completely. That's why so many Trapinch were 'casualties' in this way.
As for why these people were so enthusiastic, this is currently a feature of the Hundred Beasts Pirate Crew. The created Pokemon see them as allies, but it's merely a matter of faction reputation.
The Pokemon won't attack them or particularly favor them; they simply regard them as familiar strangers.
To get along well with Pokemon, one must build personal reputation with them. As of now, befriending Pokemon has only benefits, no downsides.
For example, within Wano, being recognized by a Mightyena means one can become a squad leader. If even Mightyena looks down on you, then one can only be an unknown grunt.
This is just one example. Many positions are reserved for those who get along well with Pokemon. With the birth of each new species of Pokemon, there are more positions within the Hundred Beasts, which aligns well with the expansion of the Hundred Beasts.
These newly-created Trapinch are seen by these pirates as paths to promotion. As for why they love promotion so much, it has a lot to do with their leader. Under Mandfeish, a large number of 'corporate drone' type talents have already gathered.
The goal is to strive for promotion, secure a good position, and retire smoothly.
While some people were busy building rapport with Trapinch, some daring individuals were teasing the Trapinch, such as Ulti.
She was currently using a fish that Page One had just caught as bait, dangling it in front of the Trapinch. These seemingly goofy creatures are actually real carnivores, with jaw strength capable of easily snapping a human hand bone.
After several failed attempts to catch the fish, the Trapinch obviously became a bit restless.
"Big sis, isn't this too dangerous..."
"It's fine, I'm going to let it eat, just playing around."
As she spoke, the Trapinch bit down on the fish. Seeing the neat break on the fish, one could estimate how much force the Trapinch used. After several tries, even Page One got a bit anxious.
"That's enough, big sis. There's only half a fish left; it's too dangerous!"
"No worries, it's still quite long, what's there to be afraid of?"
"Of course you're not afraid! That's my hand!!"
With that, Page One withdrew his hand, tossing the tied fish tail to the Trapinch.
Earlier, after he caught the fish, Ulti had suddenly tied it to his arm and started playing this dangerous game.
At first it was relatively safe, and he didn't resist much, but as the remaining part of the fish grew shorter, he became really scared and transformed to break free from Ulti.
"Alright, Page One, enough fooling around. Go scout that ship over there; its course seems a bit off."
Mandfeish's voice put an end to the sibling's antics, or rather, saved Page One from his misery. Many onboard were originally from the scouting team, so reconnaissance was not supposed to involve the siblings.
But this journey was intended to train the siblings, so Mandfeish sent Page One out.
The current position was already approaching the entrance to the New World. Here, the intimidation of the Hundred Beasts Pirate Flag begins to wane. New pirates feel most inflated when they first set sail, reach the Shampodi Islands, or arrive at the New World.
At this point, they dare to mess with anything. Observing that ship's course, Mandfeish felt something was amiss.
"Got it."
No matter the task, escaping Ulti's grip was a good thing. Page One jumped over the ship's side, soaring into the sky, but some things cannot be avoided just by flying.
His takeoff required a buffer, during which time Ulti had already jumped on his back, securely holding onto his dorsal fin.
"Big sis!"
"Let's go, let's go! Hurry up and scout, don't sweat the small stuff!"
Watching the siblings take off, a lackey nearby commented on their unseriousness.
"Boss, aren't those two a bit too young? Being so reckless isn't suitable for recon work."
"People need some honing. Prepare for battle. I think there's something strange about that ship..."