Under the lights, the Ishida family, their butler Zhibian, Metagross, and Mom's Eevee and Vulpix all gathered around the dining table.
"Here, son, try this. This ingredient is only found in the Kalos Region. It tastes wonderful cooked like this!"
Mom kept piling food into her son's bowl, unable to hide the smile on her face.
For a mother, life could hardly have been more blissful.
Her son was making something of himself, the family lived in harmony, and their business was flourishing.
"Thanks, Mom!"
Yong smiled his thanks as he stuffed food into his mouth. Beside him, generous servings of Pokémon Food and Pokéblocks had been set out for the three Pokémon, and Zhibian was mixing Berry drinks for each of them.
"What do you think about the Pokémon World Championships?"
Dad had nearly finished eating. He set down his utensils, wiped his mouth, and asked quietly.
"Hm? The championships?"
Yong shook his head and picked up another Ham and Egg Burger.
"They've only just started, so Trainers of every strength are all mixed together. I'll think about it once the initial rankings settle."
Dad nodded.
"That's fair, but have you considered that once the rankings stabilize, it'll be harder for you to climb if you only start challenging people then?"
Yong put down his food and smiled faintly.
"Dad, with so many people taking part in this tournament, how strong do you think someone would need to be to have a solid chance? Say... hmm... of making the top eight?"
"The top eight?"
Zhibian looked astonished.
"Young master, that's the Masters Eight!"
"Exactly! The Masters Eight."
Yong looked at Zhibian with a meaningful smile.
"If you want to become the 'strongest' and claim the 'king's' throne, who else could be a contender besides the top-ranked Masters Eight?"
"Well..."