The camp outside was still busy, but compared to the tense, urgent atmosphere from before, things had eased considerably.
The Rangers gathered in twos and threes. Some were organizing equipment, some were counting the rescued Pokémon, while others sat beside the bonfires, cradling hot tea as they spoke in low voices.
The moonlight had gradually faded, and the horizon was faintly beginning to pale.
A young Ranger led Xinhai through the camp to a relatively quiet cluster of tents at the rear, then pointed to a dark green tent in the middle.
"Trainer Bai Mu, you can rest here this morning. The bedding is all new. If you need anything, just let us know."
"Thanks." Xinhai nodded.
The other man smiled, told him to get some good rest, then turned and left.
Xinhai lifted the tent flap and walked inside. The tent was small but clean and tidy. A folding cot stood in the corner, covered with brand-new bedding, while a small lamp beside the bed gave off a soft yellow glow.
He tidied up a little, set his backpack beside the bed, then sat on its edge and let out a long breath.
Eevee lightly jumped down from his shoulder. Its fluffy brown body landed on the folding cot, and its four little paws paced back and forth across the pristine bedding, leaving a series of shallow indentations.
"Vee~" It turned in a satisfied circle, its fluffy tail swaying gently as its bright brown eyes looked at Xinhai. "Vee?" (Xinhai, are we sleeping here tonight?)
Xinhai watched it pacing over the bed as though it were inspecting its temporary territory, and he could not help but laugh.
He walked over and sat on the bedside, reaching out to rub its fluffy little head. His fingers passed through its soft