Leaving Littleroot Town

Early the next morning, sunlight streamed into the room through a gap in the curtains.

Xinhai and his partners woke early, enjoyed a hearty breakfast, and began methodically packing their things. The Spatial Backpack was carefully checked, and every item was put away properly.

"Alright, everyone, it's time to say goodbye to the professor and Wally," Xinhai said softly as he looked at the partners gathered around him.

"Gardevoir~" (It's a little hard to leave.) Gardevoir floated beside Xinhai, a trace of longing for their brief yet fulfilling time at the laboratory visible in her red eyes.

"Eevee..." Eevee also gave a soft cry and rubbed her little head against Xinhai's leg. She liked the peaceful atmosphere here and the friendly Pokémon companions as well.

Xinhai stroked Eevee and Gardevoir, reassuring them, "Yes, this is a wonderful place. But our journey must continue. When we get the chance, we'll come back to visit the professor, Wally, and our friends here."

He recalled all the Pokémon besides Eevee and Gardevoir into their Poké Balls, then brought the two of them back to Professor Birch's main laboratory building.

Professor Birch and Wally seemed to have expected them, and were waiting in the lobby.

"Professor Birch, Wally, we came to say goodbye," Xinhai said sincerely as he stepped forward. "Thank you both so much for your care and guidance during this time!"

Professor Birch smiled kindly and patted Xinhai on the shoulder. "No need for such formalities, Xinhai. You and Golem helped us tremendously. I'm also delighted to see how quickly you and your partners have grown."

His gaze swept over Eevee on Xinhai's shoulder and Gardevoir, whose bearing had become increasingly graceful, his eyes full of praise. "Your Gardevoir and Eevee have limitless potential. Continue steadily with the training plan I devised