Early the next morning, while the sky was still barely light, Xinhai and his partners woke up early.
After a night of rest, everyone was full of energy. Axew crawled out of its little nest and rubbed its still-sleepy purple-red eyes. When it saw Xinhai already packing his bag, it immediately woke up.
"Axew!" (Good morning, Xinhai!) it called happily, its voice much louder than when they had first met.
"Morning, Axew." Xinhai smiled as he kept packing. "We're setting off for a new city today. Are you ready?"
"Axew!" (I'm ready!) Axew nodded vigorously, its little tail swishing excitedly.
Eevee hopped down from the bed and stretched, its fluffy tail brushing over the sheets. "Vee~" (We're finally leaving!)
Xinhai smiled and returned the partners in the room to their Poké Balls one by one, leaving only Gardevoir, Eevee, and Axew outside.
He gave the room one final inspection to make sure he had not forgotten anything, then slung the brand-new Pioneer IV Model 100-cubic-meter Spatial Backpack over his shoulders.
Though the backpack had an enormous capacity, it used the latest composite spatial-folding technology and ergonomic design, so it was not much larger overall and felt exceptionally light and comfortable to carry.
Xinhai adjusted the shoulder straps with satisfaction, then carried Eevee and Axew out of the room.
When he reached the first-floor lobby, the gentle, older Nurse Joy was sorting through documents at the front desk.
Seeing Xinhai come downstairs, she smiled. "Are you leaving, Xinhai?"
"Yes, Nurse Joy. Thank you for taking care of us during this time." Xinhai nodded politely, especially grateful for her careful treatment of Axew.
"It's our duty." Nurse Joy spoke gently, her gaze falling on Axew. "This little one is recovering quickly. Just keep up its current diet and training routine. I wish