The morning air in Dewford Town was crisp, carrying the sea breeze's distinctive salty dampness and freshness, leaving one feeling invigorated and comfortable.
Sunlight slanted in from the eastern horizon, bathing the houses and roadside trees on both sides of the street in a warm golden glow.
Several Wingull stood on utility poles, preening their feathers. They did not scatter when people passed, merely tilting their heads to give them a look.
Steam and the aroma of food drifted from the breakfast shops along the street, making Xinhai's stomach, which he had only just filled that morning, stir again.
As he passed a bun shop with a sign reading "××," his steps paused slightly.
The owner lifted the lid off a steaming bamboo basket, and white vapor billowed forth, revealing the plump, rounded buns within.
Xinhai rubbed his stomach. Still feeling a little hungry, he went over and bought three baskets of soup dumplings.
"Young man, they've just come out of the steamer. Careful, they're hot." The owner wrapped them in greaseproof paper and handed them over, wearing the hearty smile distinctive to Dewford Town locals.
"Thanks, boss." Xinhai accepted the parcel, picked up a soup dumpling, blew on it, and took a bite. The savory broth spread across his tongue, carrying the fresh sweetness of pork and Berries.
He ate as he walked, occasionally feeding a bite to Eevee on his shoulder. Before long, the Trainer and Pokémon had polished off more than half the dumplings.
When Dewford Gym came into view, Xinhai stuffed the last soup dumpling into his mouth, crumpled the greaseproof paper into a ball and tossed it into a roadside bin, then wiped his hands.
A young woman with a high ponytail sat at the reception desk. Dressed in a dark gray Gym uniform, she