1. Ash's Story (Part 10: Galar)

Chapter 43

Entering the vast expanse of Wyndon City, we're struck by its sheer enormity and the multitude of attractions spread out before us. The bustling streets teem with shops, parks, and significant landmarks such as the imposing Corviknight Statue gracing the entrance to Wyndon Station. The towering presence of both the League Stadium and the Grand Festival Hall further enhances the city's allure.

Amidst our awe-inspiring surroundings, Hop and Victor make their presence known. Hop's exuberant voice echoes through the streets, "Wyndon City! This is where I'll carve my name into legend!"

Victor, with a hint of skepticism, comments, "You're quite confident, aren't you?"

"Absolutely! It's time for me to claim the title of the Galar Champion!" Hop declares with unyielding confidence. "I'm off to Wyndon Stadium! Hurry up, you should head there soon too!"

With their words ringing in our ears, the anticipation for the imminent challenges and excitement at the heart of Galar's pinnacle events—the Championship and the Grand Festival—stirs within us, propelling us toward our destined destinations.

Arriving at Wyndon Stadium, I split into two entities—one joining Serena and others heading to the Grand Festival while the other heads to the Galar League. The trio of Absol, Zoroark, and Sylveon accompanies my other self to partake in the Grand Festival, while the remaining Pokémon—Pikachu, Eldegoss, and Meowth—stay with us at the Wyndon Stadium for the Galar League.

We proceeded to register for the Pokémon League, also receiving accommodation at the prestigious Rose of the Rondelands, a luxurious five-star hotel. Amidst our preparations, we encounter Marnie, who expresses her determination, saying, "I've made it through the Gym Challenge. Even if there are only eight participants in the League, I'm going to battle my way to the top and face the Champion."

Alice reacts, "Only eight participants? That's fewer than the Kalos League, which had 64 competitors."

"I suppose Galar's trainers are exceptionally strong compared to other regions," I comment, reflecting on the regional differences in the intensity and selectiveness of the League competition. The smaller number of participants hints at the heightened skill and competitiveness expected in the Galar League.

As we delve into the rule book, we uncover that all battles in the Galar League are 5-on-5 matchups. To our surprise, my first opponent is none other than Marnie. As I glance over at Alice, I notice she's paired against a formidable opponent named Yue, while Hop faces off against Theemin and Victor against Dunne.

The realization that my first opponent is Marnie, who harbors deep aspirations for Spikemuth, leaves me feeling a mixture of apprehension and determination. The weight of knowing I might stand in the way of her aspirations weighs heavy on me. While I respect Marnie's commitment to her town, I'm also aware that this is a competition, and only one of us can advance.

The thought of potentially halting Marnie's journey at this stage gives me a momentary sense of unease. However, I steel myself, knowing that in the spirit of fair competition, we both aim for victory, and I'll give my best while respecting her dedication to Spikemuth. The battle ahead promises to be intense and challenging, but I'm ready to give it my all.

As we gather in the stadium, Hop expresses his readiness for our impending battle. "I'm all sorted and ready to battle you on the biggest stage of them all! But it looks like Bede couldn't make it. Hard luck... Somehow I didn't think he'd take being disqualified lying down, you know what I mean? I guess it is what it is..."Hop's tone carries a hint of understanding.

"Yeah, I get what you mean," I respond, acknowledging the situation.

Being in the first round, I'm already on the field, facing Marnie. We're both clad in the distinctive uniforms we wore during the opening ceremony. Marnie meets my gaze and remarks, "Heh. I knew you'd get all the Badges and meet me here. I know that there's been a lot between us, what with my big brother, Team Yell, helpin' Spikemuth and all that... But the truth is, when all's said and done... I really just wanna become Champion for myself! So don't take it personal when I kick your butt!"