A/N: Thanks to Metanoia for betaing my first two chapters!
"Zamazenta is unable to battle! Gloria wins the match!" the commentator announced.
The crowd erupted in cheers as Galar's champion and Professor Sonia's assistant shook hands in the middle of the stadium. A reporter ran onto the pitch towards the pair, her exasperated camera crew chasing after her.
"Ack, I thought I might've finally had one up on you this time, mate." Hop sighed, "I guess my knowledge on Pokémon's still no match for your battling skills."
"Well, I've not been Galar's champion for six years straight for no reason!" Gloria said, smiling at Hop. "You'd probably have got me with that fancy new strategy o' yours too, if me and me Pokémon hadn't decided to spend an entire day in the battle tower."
"Yeah, I heard you absolutely wiped the floor with Lee's Charizard!"
"What can I say? Coalossal's the ultimate counter to a Fire an' Flying type like Charizard. Anyway, this was fun. It's nice to have a fight that's not completely one sided from time to time."
"You'd better be prepared then, mate! Next time I'll get you for sure!"
"Oooh, did I just miss some juicy drama?" the enthusiastic reporter butted in. "Or could there be love in the air between these two rivals?"
Hop looked awkwardly at Gloria, who looked like she was about to slap the reporter across the face. Fortunately the camera crew caught up to them before any trouble was caused.
"Ah, yes, anyway… Don't forget to get yourselves an endorsement and get to Motostoke now, as the Galar league opening ceremony starts in five days and counting! Once it's happened, registrations are closed! Beat all eight gyms to gain access to the final tournament hosted here in Wyndon and the chance to challenge Galar's strongest champion to date, Gloria!"
"I hope one o' you out there has what it takes to take me on in an all out battle! Good luck trainers!" Gloria half spoke, half yelled at the camera.
"You heard it here first! We'll be back with more epic content after the break!"
The cameras cut off as Gloria and Hop headed off the pitch. The audience began to gather their things to leave, when suddenly there was a deep rumbling sound and a ball of flame erupted from the changing rooms.
