Approaching the Champion Tower, I felt a mix of anticipation and excitement. Today, I needed to talk to Ash about his upcoming mission to Galar. As his boyfriend, I wanted to ensure we were on the same page and that he felt my support. However, the moment I arrived, I could hear the distinct sounds of a Pokémon battle echoing from the training arena. Intrigued, I quickened my pace.

Entering the arena, I saw a Drone Rotom hovering in the air, refereeing a match. Ash was in the middle of an intense battle with a girl I quickly identified as Bea, thanks to her profile displayed on the Rotom's projection. Both of them were down to their last Pokémon, and the tension was palpable. I decided to hang back and observe, not wanting to distract Ash or Bea.

Watching the match, I couldn't help but be impressed by Bea's skill. She had managed to take down Ash's Hitmontop with her Falinks, which was no small feat. Ash's battling style was relentless and strategic, and seeing someone go toe-to-toe with him was always fascinating. Bea had clearly trained hard and had a strong bond with her Pokémon. She was definitely someone to keep an eye on in the future.

The battle raged on, and I couldn't help but feel a swell of pride for Ash. He had grown so much since we were kids. Watching him now, commanding his Pokémon with confidence and skill, it was clear he had become a true Champion. But my thoughts were also filled with concern. The upcoming mission to Galar was no ordinary challenge. Eternatus was at the level of top-tier Legendary Pokémon like Rayquaza. This wasn't something Ash should face alone.

As I stood there, watching from the shadows, Bea's Grapploct was proving to be a formidable opponent, his limbs moving with a grace and power that showed just how much training and dedication had gone into preparing for this match. But Ash's Annihilape was something else entirely. The sheer intensity and raw energy emanating from him was palpable even from where I was standing. Every move he made was calculated, every strike precise.

I could see the determination in Ash's eyes, that familiar fire that always seemed to burn brighter when he was faced with a tough opponent. It was one of the things I admired most about him. He never backed down, no matter how difficult the challenge was. And Bea was a challenge. Her Grapploct was relentless, launching a series of rapid attacks, trying to find an opening in Annihilape's defenses.

"Come on, Grapploct! We can do this!" Bea shouted, her voice full of encouragement and resolve. Her passion for battling was evident, and it was clear she believed in her Pokémon with all her heart.

"Annihilape, don't let up! Use Rage Fist!" Ash commanded, his voice steady and confident.

Annihilape responded with a fierce cry, his fists glowing with dark energy. He charged at Grapploct with a speed that took even me by surprise. Then again, Ash has always been known for his speed. Grapploct tried to counter with Octolock, attempting to trap Annihilape in a hold, but it was no use. Annihilape's raw power was too much to contain. He broke free and delivered a devastating blow, sending Grapploct sprawling across the battlefield.

Bea's face fell, but she quickly composed herself. "Grapploct, get up! We can't give up now!" she urged, but I could see the exhaustion in her Pokémon's movements. Grapploct struggled to stand, clearly worn out from the intense battle.

"Finish it, Annihilape! Use Close Combat!" Ash's voice was firm, leaving no room for doubt.

Annihilape rushed forward, his fists and legs a blur as he unleashed a flurry of powerful punches and kicks. Grapploct tried to defend himself, but he was no match for Annihilape's relentless assault. With one final, thunderous punch, Annihilape sent Grapploct crashing to the ground, unable to continue the fight.

The Drone Rotom hovered above the battlefield, their electronic voice cutting through the silence. "Grapploct is unable to battle. The winner is Annihilape! Ash Ketchum is the victor! Ash Ketchum is now second in the Pokémon World Coronation Series rankings!"

As the match concluded and Ash was declared the winner, he ran over to Annihilape, hugging him tightly. "We did it, Annihilape! We're second in the rankings now!" he exclaimed; his excitement contagious.

Bea walked over to Ash, a small smile on her face despite her loss. "That was an incredible battle, Ash. Your Annihilape is really something else," she said, extending a hand.

Ash shook her hand firmly. "Thanks, Bea. Your Grapploct was amazing too. That was one of the toughest battles I've had in a while," he replied, always gracious in victory.

I was impressed by the intensity of the battle. Bea had really given Ash a run for his money. Her Falinks taking down Ash's Hitmontop was no small feat, and her Grapploct had put up a serious fight. Watching Ash battle with such skill and strategy was a reminder of just how far he had come. I couldn't help but feel a surge of pride as I watched him. Ash had come so far, and seeing him standing there, victorious, and humble, reminded me of why I had always looked up to him. Even though we were rivals once, he had become someone I deeply respected and cared for.

As the trainers exchanged final words, I decided to step forward, finally making my presence known. Ash's face lit up when he saw me, and he quickly made his way over. "Gary! You saw the match?" he asked, his eyes shining with happiness.

"Yeah, I did," I said, pulling him into a quick hug. "You were awesome out there, as always."

Ash beamed, his excitement still evident. "Thanks!"

As we made our way up the Champion Tower, Ash's arm around my shoulders, I couldn't help but feel grateful. But the moment Ash and I entered the private room, I could feel the tension crackling in the air. We both knew what needed to be discussed, and neither of us was looking forward to it. But it had to be done.

I wasted no time in getting straight to the point. "Ash, I want to join you on this mission to Galar," I said firmly, my voice leaving no room for argument.

To my surprise, Ash's response was not what I had expected. Instead of agreeing or even considering my request, he shook his head. "No, Gary. I need you here, in the Orange Islands," he said, his tone gentle but firm.

I felt a surge of anger rising within me. How dare he underestimate me like this? I had proven myself time and time again, both as a Pokémon Trainer and as a Battle Frontier Leader in the Sevii Islands. I was not some weakling that Ash had to protect.

I couldn't hold back any longer. "You're making a mistake, Ash," I snapped, my voice rising with each word. "I'm more than capable of handling myself. I don't need you to hold my hand."

Ash sighed, his expression pained. "Gary, it's not about whether I trust you or not," he said, his voice calm despite my outburst. "It's because I trust you that I need you here. With me gone, the Orange Islands will be vulnerable. Criminals will see it as an opportunity to strike, and I need someone I can rely on to keep them in check."

His words hit me like a punch to the gut. He wasn't doubting my abilities; he was depending on them. The realization washed over me, and I felt a surge of guilt for doubting him.

I took a deep breath, trying to calm the storm of emotions raging inside me. "I understand, Ash," I said quietly, my anger dissipating as quickly as it had come. "I'll stay behind and protect our home. You can count on me."

Ash smiled gratefully, relief evident in his eyes. "Thank you, Gary. I knew I could count on you," he said, his voice filled with sincerity.