Author's Note: Hello everyone! It's good to be back online!

So to start off, welcome to the new story! This is the first chapter and I hope you all like it. This has been floating around in my brain for a while now and I'm so happy to finally share it! Okay, enough talk. See you at the end!

"There you have it, ladies and gents! The results of the final round! The winners of the Galarian Star Tournament are… Gloria and Hop!" Those words reverberated across the stadium and into the sky. Gloria's hands were shaking, her knees were trembling, and she had sweat dotted on her forehead.

"We did it Gloria!" Hop cheered, "We won!"

Gloria turned just in time to see Hop charging at her. Before she could react, he wrapped his arms around her waist and lifted her slightly off the ground. Gloria clutched him tightly and laughed out loud, "Hop, that was so awesome!"

Aside from being completely awash with joy, she had to admit feeling a little overheated. Though she wasn't sure if it was because of the stadium lights or the tremendous emotions. It was the first Galarian Star Tournament, and not only did she win, she won with her best friend by her side.

Their opponents, Leon and Raihan were just as happy for them. Raihan looked upon the two friends with a satisfied expression before taking his phone out, "I look this good even when I lose. It's a real curse. Guess it's time for another selfie!" He held his phone up and snapped a pic, striking a pose. Gloria and Hop saw this and shared a lighthearted chuckle at the Gym Leader's obsession with taking selfies.

Leon had tossed his signature cap into the air in a celebratory manner, "That was some brilliant teamwork! Thank you so much for that heart-pounding battle!"

The former champion approached the pair of rivals, "Congratulations to the both of you! I can't even begin to tell you how proud I am!" His eyes went to Hop, "Especially you, Hop. You've come so far since the first day."

Hop felt a sparkle in his eye, "Lee…"
Gloria looked at Hop with a grin, feeling her heart swell with pride, "See Hop? We knew you had it in you to be a great trainer! But you've chosen your own path and that's amazing! You finally found the path of Hop!"

Gloria saw his eye twitch and his lips quiver slightly, but he shook it off quickly, "Ah, you two! You're just embarrassing me now!"

Gloria patted his shoulder, "Oh, come on Hop. You know it's true!"

Hop replied, "You know Gloria, being able to battle alongside someone like you has been a real treat! The best thing in my life, and nothing makes me prouder! I'm gonna ride this high to really crush my studies and become a great professor! Just you watch!"

"I know you will, and I'll be cheering for you all the way!" Gloria encouraged.

Leon laughed and smiled, "And you aren't the only one Gloria, just listen to the cheers all around! This fantastic performance you both put on has lit a fire within all the people of Galar! Well, its time is up. We have our clear winners. Though it's an awful shame to end it, after all the fun it's been... Which is why..."

A stadium attendant rushed up to them and handed Leon a mic. Leon took it readily and turned to address the crowd. His voice echoed loud around the stadium, "I'm pleased to announce the Galarian Star Tournament will continue from this day on! We'll get all the strongest Trainers in the Galar region into this wild mix... And we'll run wild next time! And the next! And every time after that!"

The crowd responded with cheers from all around, joy filled the stadium to the brim. Hop waved a hand to the crowd excitedly, a wide grin taking over his face. Gloria was also waving and smiling, she felt like she was on top of the world, just like when she defeated Leon in the championship cup. She looked around slowly, doing all she could to take in the moment: The stadium lights, the turf, the applause of the spectators. It was all there, and this was a moment she would cherish forever.

Raihan rushed up to her and Hop, "You two are awesome! There is no other way to put it! Quick, let's snap a photo to remember this by!"

Hop agreed, "Sure thing, mate!"

"Come on Leon, you too!" Raihan insisted, waving the former champion over. Leon laughed out loud and leapt right on over, throwing his arms around all four of them into a big group hug in the process. It was an amazing picture of them, all sharing a smile while enclosed in Leon's arms. Raihan beamed, "Haha! This is the best photo I've taken yet! This is gonna get so many likes!" He typed on his phone furiously.

"Don't forget to tag me!" Leon enthused.

While the two playfully bantered at one another, Gloria was starting to feel a bit dizzy, she placed a hand over her pounding heart, and another on her temple. Hop noticed and put a protective hand on his friend, "Are you all right mate? Come, let's leave now. We've got to get some rest!"

Escorted by attendants, both were led back into the waiting area. Gloria instantly felt the cool air from the A/C and this brought her much needed relief. Hop stretched his arms above his head while Gloria immediately went to the locker area. She gently opened the locker door where her street clothes were hung neatly on the hangers, her boots and socks on the ground next to her rucksack.

"I'll be right back." Gloria called to Hop over her shoulder and he waved in acknowledgement. She entered an open changing area and pulled the curtain shut. Taking a deep breath, she hurriedly freed herself from her sweaty league outfit. Looking at it, she decided to take a whiff. Her nose crinkled from the smell of sweat as she stashed it away.

Before getting dressed into her everyday attire, she reached into a small pocket of her rucksack and took out a bottle of fragrance. She spritzed the mist all over her body and in the air around her, allowing the captivating fragrance to envelop her. She inhaled deeply, talking the scent of marshmallow and peony with hints of vanilla and sandalwood.

Once the mist settled, she smelled her arm. Satisfied, she threw her magenta shirt dress over her head, "At least I won't smell sweaty now. I'm glad I remembered I had that fragrance." She then put on her grey sweater and buttoned up. After that, she put her green cap back on. When she returned to the waiting room, she saw Hop changed back into his normal streetwear.

"Ah, there you are! I was wondering what was taking so long. My brother Leon was right, girls always take more time to get ready, eh?" He teased.

Gloria rolled her eyes with an impish smile, "Very funny Hop. You know I've got more buttons than you." She used her fingers to lightly tug at her grey sweater.

Hop chuckled, "I know that, I'm just ribbing you Gloria. Here, I brought you some water." He handed her a bottled water.

"Thank you so much!" She graciously took it and gulped it right up. She noted, "Wow, I didn't realize how dry my mouth was. Hehe…"

"You sure looked like you needed it!" Hop replied, "Come on, let's get outta here!"

"Okay!" Gloria smiled, walking beside Hop. When they got to the entrance area, the attendants waved at them with congratulatory words. Both winners smiled and waved back before hurrying out the door where they were greeted by the city lights.

Hop felt a sudden burst of energy and skipped ahead, "All right! We won!" He turned around, "Gloria, I haven't been this happy in a long time! I can't even describe this feeling with words right now, I would say it's incredible but that doesn't do it enough justice!"

Gloria laughed alongside him, knowing firsthand what he was experiencing, "It's an amazing feeling, isn't it? All the pre-battle nerves are gone and all that remains is adrenaline!"

"It's the best!" Hop agreed, "You feeling better now Gloria?"

"I'm fine Hop, thank you!" Gloria assured, "As amazing as that moment was, I just had to get away! Heheh…"

"I understand. I was truly worried you were gonna take a tumble back there! I wouldn't want that to happen." Hop shook his head.

"Thanks for that water, Hop. You really saved me there!"

Hop smiled, "You're welcome, mate!"

The two walked further into the city, the lights giving an almost ominous glow to the street they walked upon. When Gloria felt the cool night air blowing into her face, she inhaled deeply to let the comforting air fill her lungs. It was the beginning of her favorite season of the year, Autumn.

The pair stopped at the urban park that was located at the very east of the large city. They took cover behind the large shrubs and got themselves to a bench. Gloria immediately took a seat and Hop sat down beside her.

"It's a beautiful night, isn't it?" Hop observed, "I wonder what kind of Pokémon we'd find around here at this time?"

"You'd probably find a ghost." Gloria replied playfully, "Speaking of Pokémon, how are things going with helping Professor Sonia? Have you made any groundbreaking discoveries?"

"Not yet!" Hop replied energetically, "But you better believe I'll do that someday! I'll be honest Gloria; it was grueling at first. There was a lot of material I had to learn quickly."

"I can imagine." Gloria acknowledged, "It's always tough in the beginning."

"That's true, but I'm not gonna let that bring me down!"

"That's always the mindset you want to have." Gloria advised, "Just keep it up and you'll be able to succeed!"

"Thanks Gloria! Say, that reminds me… how is Zamazenta?"

Gloria smiled, "It's doing great! It's getting stronger and tamer by the day! The other day when I cooked up some curry for my team, it got so excited and cuddled up to me! And it gets along so well with my other Pokémon, especially Rillaboom!"

"Really? That's great to hear! I can say the same about Zacian. I took it out to the Wild Area and it loved to play fetch! It's so hilarious to see these amazing legendries act like normal Pokémon once they're on a team! One time, Zacian helped Pincurchin win a footrace against Inteleon by carrying her on it's head. Inteleon wasn't too thrilled about that, but it was hilarious to see!"

Gloria laughed, "Oh how sweet! Yeah, it really goes to show that all Pokémon have personalities just like people do. Even if the Pokémon is a legendary! Gives these things a new slice of life!"

"You said it! I can't wait to discover more; every day is a potential!" Hop enthused. Gloria was happy seeing her childhood friend finding something he was truly passionate about.

"But really, I'm proud of you Hop." Gloria mentioned, "It's wonderful you've found what truly makes you happy."

Hop grinned, "Thanks Gloria, it makes me happy to hear that! Especially from the new champion!"

Gloria smiled at this. After a few moments of silence, Hop stood and stretched his arms over his head, "Well, I'm gonna head back to Postwick. You coming too Gloria?"

Gloria paused to think about it for a minute before answering, "Not yet, I want to enjoy this weather for a bit longer."

Hop smiled, "Ah, I understand. It does feel nice right? Now that it's not so hot anymore." His eyes widened remembering something, "Ah that's right! Autumn's your favorite season!"

Gloria nodded, "Mm-hmm! That's right! I love the colors and the temperature is cool but not freezing. It's the best season in my opinion!"

"Well, I'll see you later mate!" Hop waved, "I'll be helping out Professor Sonia tomorrow, so if you need me. You know where I'm at! Of course, you can always ring me whenever! Just don't stay out too late, all right?"

"Don't worry, I won't." Gloria waved back, "Bye Hop! Take care and be good for Sonia now!"

Hop snorted, "Oh come on Gloria, you know I will be!"

Gloria laughed and watched him as he walked out of the park area and was picked up by a flying taxi. Now alone, she took a deep breath, taking in the crisp cool air and letting the night settle around her. It was a quiet moment to herself, which was much welcoming after today. She could still hear the vibrant chatter of the city, but she did her best to focus on the peaceful night. She glanced upward, disappointed that the many lights obscured the stars. Gloria briefly considered going to the Wild Area but decided not to. She had already had a big day and was too tired for it. She listened to the rustling sounds of the wind blowing through the trees. The chill she felt across her legs created goosebumps, but she didn't mind.

"Ahem."

A voice not too far from her caught her attention. She didn't need to look to see who it was, she knew that voice all too well. She took a deep breath in and exhaled. Then turned her head to see Bede standing there. His arms crossed, a hint of a smile, and giving her that pompous stare he would routinely grace her with.

"Hey Bede." She replied blandly.

He raised an eyebrow, "Tired out from that match, are you? I assumed the champion would have more energy." He chuckled softly after saying that.

Gloria huffed lightly, "It's been a long day, all right? I'm only human."

Bede took a few steps closer, as he was doing that Gloria noticed he was scanning their surroundings, "Are you alone?" He asked her.

This puzzled Gloria, she stood up and faced him, "Yes, I am."

He stopped right in front of her but didn't say anything. Gloria was confused, "What's he up to now?" She thought to herself. Not knowing what to say she asked, "So, how'd you like the tournament?"

Bede looked at her and answered, "I was happy to see you win, but only because I wouldn't have stood for any other result."

Gloria rolled her eyes, "Of course, you know letting you down is my biggest fear, right?" She laughed; her voice saturated with sarcasm.

Bede scoffed, "Tsk… Got a bit of an attitude I see. Still, your performance was not bad at all. And as much as I hate to admit this, Hop has gotten stronger too." He said that last part very tight-lipped. It was clearly a struggle for him to say that aloud.

Ignoring that, Gloria replied, "He has. I'm really proud of him."

When she said that, she noticed that he appeared annoyed. But he shook it off and replied, "Never mind that."

Then to Gloria's surprise, he raised a hand.

"What do you want?" Gloria questioned, freaking out slightly.

"Hold still." Bede replied calmly. He gently swept his raised hand across her forehead a few times. Once he was done, he spoke, "That's better. Your bangs were a little out of place."

Gloria was frozen in place, that was something completely unexpected and she had no idea how to respond, "Oh! Um… Well, I…Th-thanks…?"

"As champion, you must always take extra care to look presentable."

His tone was kind and gentle, which Gloria immediately took notice of. She hesitated before replying, "I… suppose so."

"Well, I must get back to Ballonea. You should be heading home too. It wouldn't do you good to catch a cold."

Gloria looked at him with a curious expression, she noticed his face now lacked the arrogance it usually carried, "Um, yeah."

"Well Gloria, congratulations on winning the tournament." He nodded, then turned around and walked away, "Take care of yourself now." He called back to her before disappearing.

Gloria stood, taking in his words as the wind brushed her frame. After it settled, she turned around to lean on a metal fence nearby.

"What was that all about? Why was he so kind to me just now?" She whispered. She looked up at the sky again, "Come to think of it, I don't really know anything about him…"

With these thoughts in her mind, she called a flying taxi to take her back to Postwick. The whole way there she couldn't get that brief interaction out of her mind. She continued to think until the taxi got back to Postwick. After disembarking, she thanked the driver and walked the short distance to her house. It was a relief to be back home after today.

Skipping up the steps to her door, she could see that the lights were still on. When she got inside, her mother looked up from the couch, "There you are Gloria! I was starting to wonder where you were!"

"Hi Mum, sorry I took so long." Gloria apologized. Her mother walked over to give her daughter a hug, "Don't worry about it dear. I was so happy to see you win the tournament! Congratulations!"

"Thanks mum." She looked around, "Did dad go to sleep already?"

Her mum chuckled, "He sure did! The second we got home he just went straight to bed! He's so happy for you though. I don't know if you heard him cheering for you the whole time! He would be jumping out of his seat every minute or two! Hahaha!"

Gloria giggled, "I thought I heard dad in the audience, but I wasn't sure. I'm glad to hear that mum. I'm… gonna take a shower and go to my room now."

"Of course dear, go right ahead." Her mum put a hand on her shoulder, "You've had quite the day."

Gloria smiled and went to her room to drop off her rucksack and grabbed her white hoodie and dark pink joggers off the bed. Then she went into the restroom and turned on the shower.

Meanwhile, in her room. Two of her pokeballs popped open. Her Alcremie emerged from the light. The love sweet, ruby swirled Pokémon waved her arms happily and began to explore her trainer's room with a big smile.

Another pokeball popped open, revealing Gloria's female Indeedee. The maid-like Pokémon brushed itself off before rushing to Alcremie's side to watch her, just as she always did. Alcremie had found a bouncy ball on the ground and began pushing it around, laughing as she did. Indeedee watched her with a joyful smile.

Several minutes later, Gloria entered the room wearing her joggers and hoodie, her eyes widened seeing her Pokémon out, "Oh, hey guys!"

Alcremie waved with a giggle and Indeedee bowed. Chuckling at this, Gloria began her favorite ritual of the day of climbing into bed to put on the same anime that she's watched a hundred times and play on her phone for a while. Her cup filled with ice water on her nightstand by her bed. After getting under the covers, she saw a message from Hop.

Gloria? Have you gotten home yet?

Gloria smiled and typed back,

Yeah, I'm in bed now. I'm gonna go to sleep after this episode.

She decided not to tell Hop about her brief encounter with Bede.

Awesome! I'll see you tomorrow, Gloria. Have a good night!

She typed good night back and tried to return to her episode. But she couldn't focus on it at all, the only thing she could think of was Bede.

"Bede, just who are you really?" She spoke in a low voice, facing her ceiling. Indeedee and Alcremie went up to her bed curiously staring at her.

Sonia's words from way back repeated in her head,

"You know, during one of Bede's matches, I heard the announcer say that Bede has no family."

It made Gloria feel heavy, "He has no family? That's really sad… I wonder…"

Indeedee and Alcremie tilted their heads, Gloria sat up to acknowledge them kindly. She helped them atop her bed.

She noticed the confused faces on her Pokémon and explained, "Yeah, I know, through our whole journey he's been nothing but a thorn in our sides. We've definitely had our fair share of rows... But it's not like I want to see him miserable or anything. Plus, I can't just ignore how kind he was just now."

Indeedee and Alcremie had thoughtful expressions at that.

"Come. Let's go to bed now, it's getting late and we've had a tiring day."

Indeedee and Alcremie nodded and went to lay down at the foot of the bed. Gloria turned off the telly and flipped off the lights. In the dark, she pulled her covers up and rested her head on her pillow.

"Bede…"

Author's Note: So that's it! The first chapter! What do you guys think?