1. Ash's Story (Part 10: Galar)

Chapter 16

As we step outside the Hulbury Stadium, Oleana intercepts us, her demeanor as composed as ever. "Do not keep the chairman waiting. Head to the seafood restaurant—the Captain's Table," she urges, her voice carrying a sense of urgency. "So you will not forget the chairman's face, I will give you one of his League Cards."

Accepting the card, we watch Oleana depart swiftly, her purposeful strides echoing her commitment to efficiency. Relena, observing the exchange, shares insights with a tone tinged with concern. "My husband, Rose, possesses a nature that feels disheartened if he doesn't attend to matters promptly. It would be wise for us to make our way to the seafood restaurant without delay, so as not to keep the chairman waiting."

As we stride purposefully towards the seafood sanctuary known as the Captain's Table, our curiosity beckons us to examine the League Card bestowed upon us by Oleana. With a sense of anticipation, we take a moment to study the card bearing the distinguished insignia of Chairman Rose.

Mr. Rose is in fact a talented Trainer, coming in second place for a past Champion Cup. As the chairman of the Pokémon League, and as the president of a large business conglomerate, he is truly a hero to the Galar region, working tirelessly to ensure its prosperity. His thoughts and words don't always match, and thus many say it's hard to tell what he's talking about. In fact, it is said that only his wife and secretary can tell what his true intent is. (NOTE: The above text was submitted by his secretary.)

"Seriously?" Elena mutters under her breath, a hint of disbelief evident in her tone as she finishes reading the elaborate description. Her mother, catching wind of the reaction, lets out a light chuckle, her amusement palpable.

"Well, that's Oleana for you," her mother remarks with a knowing smile, acknowledging Oleana's penchant for formality and thoroughness.

As we step into the bustling ambiance of the seafood restaurant, our eyes widen in astonishment as we spot Chairman Rose and Oleana. However, the real surprise unfurls as we recognize familiar faces amidst the gathering – my Mom, Dad, Dia, and Sonia, all gathered together, creating an unexpected yet heartwarming scene.

"Mom? Dad? What are you doing here?" I blurt out, unable to contain my surprise at the unexpected reunion.

"It's a delightful surprise, seeing you here, Ash," my Mom responds with a warm smile, swiftly enveloping me in a heartfelt hug that speaks volumes of her joy at our unexpected encounter.

Elena's expression lights up with unanticipated delight upon spotting Dia among the gathering. A shared moment of affection between Elena and Dia catches us off guard – a tender kiss exchanged between them, a surprising twist that momentarily leaves us speechless.

"So you're traveling with Ash and the others?" Dia inquires, his voice filled with genuine curiosity.

"Yeah, surprised?" Elena playfully teases, a mischievous glint in her eye.

"Not at all. You'll be amazed at how Ash is," Dia responds with a reassuring smile. "Good to see you again, bro," he adds warmly.

As we settle comfortably into our seats at the Captain's Table, the ambiance infused with the aroma of delectable seafood dishes, Chairman Rose enlightens us about Hulbury's culinary specialty. "Hulbury is a seafood town. Naturally, if one is going to eat here, the obvious choice is the local cuisine! Everything on the menu is delicious," he remarks, setting the tone for our flavorful culinary journey.

The tantalizing seafood dishes served promptly leave our taste buds astounded, garnering exclamations of amazement from everyone present. Each bite is a revelation, eliciting expressions of sheer delight and surprise at the exquisite flavors.