Early the next morning, Qingyu set off for Medali.
Located in western Paldea, Medali was a town steeped in nostalgia. Its exceptionally vibrant food culture had also made it home to the headquarters of many restaurant businesses.
Of course, it also enjoyed a natural geographical advantage-
As the lowest-lying area and the closest to the upper reaches of Area Zero, the League had chosen to build an entrance near Medali when exploration of Area Zero first began.
That entrance was the now-sealed Area Zero Gate.
By riding a Pokémon capable of flight, one could enter the outskirts of Area Zero from there.
If nothing unexpected happened, the ultimate purpose of this trip to Medali, specifically requested by Chairwoman Geeta, probably had something to do with the mysterious Area Zero.
Riding Miraidon, whose physique had grown even more powerful than before, Qingyu could already make out the distant town.
The town was not particularly large. Aside from the countless restaurants neatly lining both sides of the streets, Medali Gym also stood out.
However...
Qingyu had no intention of going to Medali Gym.
The reason was simple: Larry had arranged to meet him at the Treasure Eatery.
It was Medali's most famous restaurant. Despite having no intention of opening any branches, this extraordinary establishment consistently topped Paldea's review rankings, crushing a host of high-end restaurant companies.
A visit to Medali really would have felt incomplete without stopping by.
"Graaow~"
Miraidon seemed to have noticed the aroma wafting from the nearby restaurant too. In a rare show of initiative, he called out to Qingyu, his metallic voice sounding distinctly cheerful.
To him, Medali probably looked exactly as paradise should. All that delicious food had practically marinated the entire town...
Qingyu could not help thinking so.
After pushing open the door to the Treasure