The two Chiefs answered in unison, then briskly turned and left the command room to carry out their respective tasks.
Nearby, the four Pokémon nestled together on the cushioned sofa slowly woke up.
"Miu-Ming—" Ampharos gave a huge yawn and stretched, accidentally sweeping its enormous tail into Riolu beside it.
"Rio!" Woken up, Riolu rubbed his eyes groggily. Seeing that it was Ampharos, he did not get angry, merely giving it a push with his little paws.
"Bii?" The two Celebi floated up, blinking curiously as they looked around.
Tong Hua and the other Pokémon walked over and handed the four of them their packed breakfasts.
"Good morning. Come have breakfast.
"I borrowed the kitchen to make this for you." Tong Hua handed them the warm food.
"Amph!" "Bii!"
Ampharos and the two Celebi brightened up, happily accepting the food and digging in.
Only Riolu looked somewhat bewildered as he accepted his breakfast. First he sniffed it curiously, then watched his companions wolfing theirs down, a slightly puzzled expression appearing on his face.
"Rio?"
"Is it really that good?"
In their original world, Riolu handled logistics and cooking for the Exploration Team. He was quite confident in his culinary skills and was used to seeing everyone's happy expressions when they ate his food.
Seeing his companions so enthusiastic about food made by his other-world self, did he feel a little curiosity and a subtle competitive urge?
"Rio."
Holding his chopsticks, Riolu cautiously took a bite...
"Much as I hate to admit it, it really is delicious.
"Just what I'd expect from myself."
Seven and He Fu left Ranger Union headquarters. Meanwhile, Tong Hua and his party followed Professor Xinyuan into the laboratory.
The wreckage of the Mysterious Device recovered from Harbor Town, along with some parts recovered near Wind-Famous