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When Lin Dao and Growlithe returned to the research institute in the ecological park with Pikachu, Bagon, and Kangaskhan, who had had a great time playing, the afterglow of the setting sun had already dyed the sky a warm orange-red.

In the open space in front of the research institute, a long table has been set up, with a dazzling array of dishes on it—there are steaming, fragrant Chengdu specialties such as stir-fried dishes and maocai, as well as "experimental" energy cubes with different colors carefully prepared by researchers using local fruits and ingredients, and even a few bottles of low-alcohol fruit wine for celebration.

"Mr. Lin, you're finally back! We've been waiting for you to start dinner!"

Professor Wang Nianhao greeted them with a smile, and the other researchers also gathered around, creating a lively atmosphere.

He Zhong smacked his lips in feigned dissatisfaction.

"Tsk, I've been waiting here for so long, through wind and rain, and Professor Wang, you've never prepared such a lavish welcome for me!"

Wang Nianhao pushed up his glasses and bluntly "undermined" him.

"Captain He, you're mistaken. This meal is for two reasons: first, to welcome Mr. Lin back; second,..." He glanced gently at the Pokémon gathered not far away.

"It's also a farewell to these 'old friends' who have decided to leave their homes and head to Xinyuan City. Who knows when we'll see each other again?"

He Zhong laughed and patted Wang Nianhao on the shoulder.

"Just kidding, Professor Wang, you actually took it seriously. The atmosphere is so nice, like a big family dinner."

Lin Dao followed his gaze.

At the edge of that open space, many Pokémon were saying goodbye to each other.

Those who decided to stay expressed their reluctance by calling out, touching, or giving simple gifts; those who decided to leave tried to show their longing for a new life and comforted their companions.

Many of the familiar faces were among them: after their companions agreed to follow the researchers, the remaining creatures included Oddish, Mushroom, and Lilyroot Doll.

Most of them are small creatures that were sheltered by Growlithe and Lindway during the early chaos, or were rescued by researchers after being injured or sick. They are not very strong and tend to be introverted.

But precisely because of this, they have a deeper trust in the forest trails that give them a sense of security and in this "home" that is gradually becoming familiar to them.

When they heard that Lindao was going to build a new city where they could live better and safer, the little guys hesitated and encouraged each other before finally choosing to follow.

Seeing this scene, Lin Dao felt a complex warmth welling up in his heart.

This weighty trust is a more precious gift than any points or technology, and it makes the responsibility on his shoulders more concrete and clear.

The atmosphere at the party was lively and warm.

The researchers temporarily set aside their data and experiments, and the Pokémon relaxed their usual vigilance. They sat together, sharing food and exchanging anecdotes.

The mischievous yet enthusiastic Pikachu was naturally the center of attention, being fed an Energy Cube by one person and a Berry by another, keeping it very busy.

As the gathering drew to a close, Professor Wang Nianhao eagerly pulled Lin Dao into the institute's conference room.

Several core researchers were already waiting there, with data boards and handwritten notes piled up on the table.

Over the past period, they have accumulated a large amount of observational data and questions regarding Pokémon ecology, Energy Cube ratios, and specific move activation conditions, and are waiting for Lin Dao, this "mobile database," to answer their questions.

Lin Dao also calmed his mind and, combining his own experience with the vast amount of information he had redeemed on the Arceus phone, patiently and meticulously answered each question one by one.

From the stability of berry hybridization to the subtle differences in energy intake among Pokémon of different types, and how to more safely guide Pokémon to learn new moves...

As Lin Dao spoke, he drew a diagram on the whiteboard.

The researchers took notes quickly, asking follow-up questions from time to time, their eyes growing brighter and brighter, as if the fog surrounding the research topic was being lifted layer by layer.

Just as the discussion reached a critical technical hurdle, the meeting room door was gently pushed open, and Shen Yu'er walked in with her phone in hand.

She had a hint of fatigue on her face, but her eyes remained clear.

"Lin Dao, Mayor Zhou called again," she said softly. "He arranged a dinner, but we haven't arrived yet, and he's a little worried."

The video call connected, and Mayor Zhou's face appeared on the screen, with the background seemingly being an elegant private room in a restaurant.

He was about to speak when he saw the densely packed formulas on the whiteboard behind Lin Dao and Professor Wang Nianhao's focused, almost luminous eyes. He immediately swallowed his words, his face showing an expression of "I knew it" and helplessness.

"Mayor Zhou," Lin Dao said apologetically, "I'm sorry, this discussion has been going on for a while."

Lin Dao glanced at Shen Yu'er beside him and said, "I think it's getting late, so let's not rush back to Rongcheng city."

"This trip is tight. I'll pick up the Pokémon first thing tomorrow morning and head straight to the Imperial Capital. Once I get back from the Imperial Capital, I'll definitely make a special trip to visit you and have a good chat."

On the other end of the screen, Mayor Zhou was disappointed, but he also understood the priorities.

He sighed and nodded: "I understand, I understand. Things in the capital are important."

"Then...after you return from the capital, you must stay in Chengdu for a few more days! There are still many plans for the development of the Pokémon industry in Chengdu that we'd like to discuss with you in depth! I promise, I will absolutely not let Professor Wang 'kidnap' you again!"

Lin Dao smiled and agreed, "Definitely. I will definitely pay you a special visit when I return."

After ending the call, Lin Dao resumed his discussion with the researchers.

By the time preliminary directions or solutions for all the pressing issues had been identified, the sky outside the window was filled with stars, and the coolness of the late night was quietly spreading.

After seeing off the researchers who left satisfied with their notes, only Lin Dao and Shen Yu'er, who had been assisting with recording and coordination, remained in the conference room.

"Xiaoyu, how are the arrangements for the vehicles and personnel to pick up and drop off those Pokémon in New Town tomorrow?" Lin Dao asked, rubbing his temples.

Even if the body is not tired, the mind needs some relaxation after intense mental activity.

Shen Yu'er replied immediately, her voice soft yet clear: "Everything is arranged. The transport vehicles, the accompanying caregivers, the supplies along the way, and the reception and temporary accommodation in Xinyuan City have all been coordinated."

She paused, then added, "Also, regarding the Pokémon's emotions and cooperation... After the party last night, I took Growlithe and Pikachu and went to talk to each of the Pokémon who were planning to leave to confirm things."

"They all understand and will follow instructions. They are also looking forward to their new home. The Growlithe dogs are quite familiar with them, so it works very well to calm them down."

Lin Dao nodded, feeling grateful that his ability to focus on these technical and overall issues was inseparable from Shen Yu'er's meticulous handling of countless tedious yet crucial details.

"You've worked hard." He said sincerely, "You should go and rest. I've been putting a lot of things on your shoulders lately. The trip to the capital will likely involve a lot of more work and effort."

Shen Yu'er did not refuse. She knew that Lin Dao's physical condition was far beyond that of ordinary people, and a short rest would be enough for him, while she herself did need to conserve her energy.

She nodded, whispered, "Don't stay out too late," and then turned and left the meeting room.