After Axew joined the team, Xinhai decided to set up camp by the underground river first, so the little one and the others could get some rest.
Led by Axew, they soon arrived at the broad, gently flowing underground river.
Upon reaching the riverbank, Xinhai found that it was indeed as the Pokédex had described: spacious, with calm waters and a flat gravel shore shaped by years of erosion.
Towering rock walls rose around them, with glowing moss and crystal clusters hanging overhead, providing dim but sufficient light.
"All right, we'll camp here tonight." Looking over the area, Xinhai set down his backpack. "Everyone, help clear the ground. Watch out for small rocks or anything sharp."
"Eevee!" (Leave it to me!) Eevee was the first to respond. A glow of Confusion appeared as she gently swept scattered pebbles and dead branches aside.
Blaziken and Krokorok used their strength to move several larger rocks to the edge of the campsite, forming a simple boundary.
Gardevoir carefully scanned the ground and nearby rock walls with Inner Focus, checking for possible hazards such as loose stones or hidden cracks.
Zigzagoon and Mightyena circled the campsite, leaving their marks to drive away other wild Pokémon.
Axew stood there at a loss, watching everyone bustle about.
It wanted to help, but had no idea what it could do. A trace of unease showed in its large purplish-red eyes.
Xinhai noticed the lingering anxiety deep in Axew's eyes, as well as its awkward eagerness to do something despite not knowing where to start.
He smiled slightly and said gently, "Axew, could you help me? Carry these things over to the tent."
As he spoke, he pointed at a pile of toiletries and several waterproof bags filled with odds and ends on the ground.
At his words,