Maybe there would even be an extra surprise!
Hu Bin savored the thought and slowly drifted off to sleep.
Early the next morning, Hu Bin, Ninetales, and the others woke up bright and early, ready to have breakfast before heading back to Spring City to challenge the Spring City Gym.
According to Gym Leader Leijiaer, Qu Shen, the Leader of the Spring City Gym, was every bit as strong as he was. His strength was terrifying!
Hu Bin knew this too, which was why he had saved the Spring City Gym for last. Challenging it right at the start would have been asking for a beating!
Hu Bin had breakfast with Leijiaer that morning.
As they ate, Leijiaer said, "Hu Bin, there's only a month left until the Pokémon League Conference. You need to make the most of your time. Once you've challenged Qu Shen, you'll have to get straight into some hellish training. There are quite a few promising contenders in this China Pokémon League Conference, so you'd better give it your all!"
Hu Bin nodded, his heart growing heavier. He understood that there was always someone stronger out there.
It looked like this really would be a tough battle!
Quite a few powerful Pokémon Trainers had emerged during the last Rookie Tournament, and he had nearly missed out on the championship!
Seeing Hu Bin's somber mood, Leijiaer reassured him, "You're very strong yourself. Train hard, and you're sure to shine at the China Pokémon League Conference!"
Hu Bin shook off his gloom and nodded with a smile. "Don't worry, Gym Leader Leijiaer. I'll train hard and aim for a good placing!"
"Give it your all. I've got high hopes for you!"
Raichu hadn't appeared during breakfast. Even Ninetales found it strange, wondering where the one who was always