Prepares to move to Mossdeep City in the Hoenn region to pursue his dreams of becoming an astronaut. The Grand Departure

Nebby (Solgaleo) returns to say a fond farewell to Ash, emphasizing the cosmic-level bonds formed.

Unlike previous series finales where Ash simply packs his bags, Episode 146 focuses heavily on the entire Alola family. Ash decides to return to Pallet Town to reset his journey and see more of the Pokémon world. However, he struggles to find the right words to tell his classmates. The Classmates’ New Horizons

Ash isn't the only one leaving. Every member of the Pokémon School class reveals their own ambitious plans for the future:

The finale's strength lies in how it weaves together the individual farewells of all the main characters, providing a sense of closure for each of their personal journeys. The episode opens with Ash and his classmates—Kiawe, Lana, Mallow, Sophocles, and Lillie—discussing their plans for the upcoming break from the Pokémon School. Kiawe reveals his intention to train under the Kahuna Olivia, while the others share their own ambitions.

(grinning) “Yeah, but that doesn’t mean goodbye forever! Alola will always be my second home.”