The Packed Hot Spring Inn

Leaving the Pokémon Center, the evening heat in Lavaridge Town had eased slightly, but the air was still filled with warm geothermal currents and a faint scent of sulfur.

The streetlights had just come on, and the lanterns outside the hot spring inns lit up one after another, casting a warm orange-red glow.

Just as Xinhai had expected, several of the better-looking hot spring inns along the street had "No Vacancy" signs hanging outside, while others had lines of people waiting to get in.

Eevee stood on Xinhai's shoulder, its little head turning left and right, but it still had not spotted a suitable hot spring inn.

"Don't rush." Xinhai patted Eevee's head and looked toward a cluster of more imposing buildings on the slightly higher ground west of town. "Let's check over there. Earthcore Warm Current Hot Spring Inn, the most luxurious one in Lavaridge Town, should still have rooms."

After passing through several stone-paved streets dotted with heat-resistant plants, a grand building that blended traditional Japanese style with modern design appeared before them.

Its towering entrance, meticulously trimmed garden, and the thicker columns of white steam rising behind it all proclaimed its distinction.

There was no long queue at the entrance, but the guests coming and going were clearly well-dressed, and the Pokémon accompanying them were all exceptionally well-trained.

Holding Eevee in his arms and accompanied by Gardevoir, Xinhai entered the spacious, brightly lit lobby.

The interior was elegantly decorated, dominated by dark wood and warm-toned stone. A relaxing fragrance of mineral and herbal essential oils drifted through the air.

The neatly kimono-clad staff member at the front desk gave Xinhai and his companions a professional smile, though a flicker of surprise still passed through her eyes at Gardevoir's bearing.

"Welcome to Earthcore Warm Current Hot Spring Inn.