Manalo Stadium.
It was an artificial island that combined a hotel, restaurants, battle facilities, and a commercial shopping center.
Professor Oak, Delia, and Crystal arrived aboard an Aether Foundation ship.
Li Wei and Professor Kukui brought Ash, Kiawe, and the others to welcome Professor Oak's group.
"Alola, Professor Oak."
"Alola, Professor Kukui."
Professor Oak and Professor Kukui shook hands.
Ash said excitedly, "Professor Oak, thank you so much for coming to watch the tournament in person!"
Professor Oak laughed heartily. "Think nothing of it! I can certainly spare the time!"
"Besides, this is a chance for a Trainer from Pallet Town to become a regional Champion again."
"Of course I want to witness it myself!"
After Blue and Red, Pallet Town had gone quite some time without another outstanding Trainer-around ten years, by now.
Although Trainers from Pallet Town still competed in Pokémon League tournaments, they hadn't achieved any particularly good results.
On his first attempt at a Pokémon League tournament, Ash had even set a new record for Pallet Town Trainers in recent years...
One could say that Ash was Pallet Town's new hope after Red and Blue.
Although Ash had suffered plenty of setbacks early on,
he now had a chance to claim the Alola League championship before he even turned fourteen...
His progress was certainly clear.
After exchanging pleasantries, Professor Oak soon noticed the Meltan in Ash's arms.
"So this is Meltan."
After seeing Meltan in person, Professor Oak became even more certain of the connection between Meltan and Melmetal.
However...
Professor Oak took a Flash Cannon to the face.
"Professor Oak, are you all right?"
"I'm fine, I'm fine!"
Professor Oak laughed heartily again.
As the original Super New Trainer, what was an injury of this level to him?
There was a reason Meltan had suddenly