With a solemn sigh, his opponent recalled their fainted Pokemon, ending the match and allowing the challenger to pass on to take on the Champion of the Pokemon League. Karen strode over, and gave the challenger a firm handshake before a good luck kiss upon the cheek. Gold smirked, and looked over his shoulder, giving a thumbs up as he disappeared through the automatic doors.
The escalators brought him upwards to the battle hall of the Champion: where his opponent resided. Gold was expecting to see Red, who had easily conquered the Elite Four three years ago - Gold had watched the fight on his television set at home in earnest.
No cap-wearing trainer was there ...was this the wrong room?, thought the trainer from New Bark, when a joyous voice echoed from the platform. "Gold! I knew you'd make it!"
Cautiously, the black-haired trainer made his way forward, to see none other than... Lance!
"Afternoon, Gold. I trust this was unexpected for you, hmm? You see, Red retired from the role of Champion to focus on further training. He granted me the title after giving the Viridian Gym to his rival, Blue, and I reformed the Elite Four. Now, I wish to see if you have what it takes to become Champion," the red-haired trainer said, walking back and forth. Meanwhile, Gold had taken out a Pokeball, tossing it up and down, patiently waiting for the battle to start.
"My plan was to attract powerful trainers to take the title, and then beat them down for all to see, making me seem the strongest once more! My loss to Blue three years ago, and then subsequent loss to Red made me feel weak... unloved. I've regained my position as Champion, and now - You. Shall. Kneel. Before the better trainer. I will not lose again! I will win!" With that, the steadily angrier Dragon-Master maximized a Pokeball, starting the battle.
A "What-If?"based on the events of FireRed/ LeafGreen manga and then following events of HeartGold/ SoulSilver. As in, what if Lance had an alternate agenda for wanting to face strong, powerful challengers. After all, he was most likely Champion before Blue defeated him - otherwise the Elite Four would make little sense.
Lance is meant to feel like a slightly unhinged person. After all, this is one of the only trainers to wear a cape, and also - he uses Dragon-Pokemon, which take difficult training to raise. Plus, his persona from the Pokemon Adventures manga suits him far more than his game or anime persona. Plus, he lost to Blue and then Red in quick succession.
Meanwhile, Gold idolises Red as a great trainer, and like Red, has a team which is fairly uncompromised during his journey.