Two days remained before Akg receive his Trainer License.
Everything on his long checklist - was complete.
Youngest Pokémon Professor in Alliance history.
Rena evolved into a magnificent Gardevoir.
Gyarados reborn as the Stormborne Dragon God.
Solid reputation, respect, and powerful connections—including a formal engagement to Daisy Oak.
Sustained, heartfelt bonds with Serena, Korrina, and Chloe.
Except one final matter that weighed on his heart.
> Delia Ketchum
From the first day he helped her arrange flowers, her warmth had felt like sunlight. Over countless afternoons in her garden she became more than a friend; she became someone he wished to protect and cherish. In this world, polygamy among influential families was accepted, but such a confession still demanded respect and sincerity—especially with a difference in age and life experience.
Late afternoon sunlight slanted across Delia's garden as she finished pruning her lilies. Akg approached with steady steps, carrying a single, perfect Sun Rose Lily—the same bloom she often tucked behind her ear.
"Miss Delia," he greeted softly. She turned, warmth blooming in her eyes.
They sat together on the porch bench. Akg spoke quietly but firmly:
"In these two years you've shown me a kindness no title could ever deserve. I've come to love you, Delia—deeply. Would you allow me to marry you?"
Delia's breath caught in her throat. Joy sparkled first—then hesitation followed.
"Akg… I can't pretend your words don't make me happy," she admitted, cheeks rosy. "But there's Ash. I'm still his mother before I'm anything else."
She folded her hands, gaze drifting to the distant hills where Ash often went to play
"He turns fourteen in two days—officially an adult by Alliance law. But he still believes his father is merely 'on a long journey.'
I've sheltered him from that truth for ten years… and before I make new vows, I must free him from that lies,
Her voice trembled.
"I'll tell Ash the truth: that his father… died on his travels. He deserves honesty—and a chance to choose his own path without waiting for someone who will never return."
Akg listened in silence, then placed a gentle hand over hers.
"I respect your devotion, Delia. Tell him—then give me your answer. Whatever it is, I'll accept it."
Delia exhaled in relief. Tears shimmered but did not fall.
"Thank you, Akg. Let me speak with Ash . When he's ready… I'll give you my decision."
Akg rose, bowed respectfully, and pressed the Sun Rose Lily into her hands.
"I'll wait—for as long as it takes."
Delia watched him walk away, heart fluttering between grief and newfound hope.
That night, Delia sat at her kitchen table, writing a letter to Ash—words she would read aloud when the moment came. Outside, the wind rustled the flowers Akg had helped her plant, carrying his quiet promise through the open window:
I'll wait.