Although she was younger than she would be several years from now and still looked rather childish, that wasn't especially unusual.
Ever since Black 2 and White 2, the protagonists and supporting characters of XY, Sun and Moon, Sword and Shield, and Scarlet and Violet had generally been older. That meant even late-generation characters such as Bea, Marnie, and Kieran were already ten or older.
At that age, they were already as old as Ash. If they matured a little faster than average, no one would ever guess they were only ten.
Besides, was there really that much difference between ten and fifteen? In Pokémon Masters EX, Akari and Dawn were the same height. If anything, Dawn looked slightly more mature.
Thus, the girl standing before them was likewise around that age.
Hop stared. "S-She's so cute!"
Marnie nodded. "A cute girl."
Bea agreed, "She really is— Ahem. Everyone, get a hold of yourselves."
The Scottish girl in the green tam froze for a moment, and her expression shifted slightly.
It wasn't that she didn't recognize the people gathered here. Quite the opposite—she had seen every one of them before!
"You're the people who appeared on the royal family's broadcast!"
"I can't believe I'd run into all of you here...!"
Was she a little moved?
Although the broadcast of the events in the Crown Tundra had ultimately been cut short by the massive blackout, Gloria had still seen what happened.
Yet the enormous Dynamax phenomenon that had altered the very sky and earth hadn't awakened so much as a trace of fear in her heart. Instead, that spectacular battle had kindled something else.
Pokémon battles seemed like an incredibly fun activity.
A truly, truly fun one!
"Heroes, it's a pleasure to meet you! My name is Gloria!"
The girl in the green tam introduced herself politely and offered the customary greeting of her hometown.
She smiled, but beneath that adorable expression lurked an astonishing hunger for battle.
Victor had appeared, and now Gloria had spawned as well. That smile she wore no matter what happened was practically an inherited protagonist expression, just like Selene's—
Well, perhaps that wasn't quite fair. Selene maintained the same blank expression no matter what she encountered, whereas Gloria had at least displayed emotions before.
Still, some of Gloria's lines in Pokémon Masters EX were rather revealing.
[She simply loves Pokémon and happily enjoys adventures alongside them.]
[The Wild Area is the perfect place to train. Pitching a tent and living there for several days truly lets you experience what it means to be wild.]
[While adventuring through Galar, the more she learned about Zacian, the stronger her desire to fight alongside it became with each passing day.]
[Zacian only appears before Trainers who interest it. Since it's taken an interest in you, I've got no choice but to step up! What are we doing? Having a Pokémon battle, of course!]
On the surface, none of those lines seemed particularly unusual. Yet beneath them hid the desires of a battle maniac who lived for the thrill of combat.
"A born battle junkie... Galar's greatest treasure, the mysterious Scottish girl in the green tam. Besides, an adorable girl who's secretly obsessed with fighting is a classic character archetype."
To Gloria, everything she would experience—defeating Eternatus, catching Zacian, training on the Isle of Armor, and adventuring through the Crown Tundra—was nothing more than play.
Entertaining games.
A true powerhouse was someone capable of making even Legendary Pokémon dance in the palm of her hand.
Eternatus had encountered a girl in a green tam atop the tower in Hammerlocke and, despite fighting with all its might, had been unable to defeat her.
"What do you think of this child?" Professor Magnolia asked Hikaru. "She may look like she's merely smiling, but she possesses an extraordinary passion for battle. As the strongest person here, can you sense it?"
Hikaru coughed. "Yes, I can. A true master always fights with a faint smile on their lips."
How should he put it?
Gloria's dialogue choices throughout the story showed that she was curious about practically every enemy she encountered. She remained completely nonchalant regardless of how powerful her opponent was. Aside from getting flattened by Zacian once at the beginning, she never lost again.
"When Wedgehurst was gripped by panic earlier, this girl borrowed a fashion designer's Solrock and helped everyone in town," Professor Magnolia explained. "She said she learned how to battle by watching videos, but she was truly impressive."
"Compared to her, that designer was rather hopeless. He kept forgetting things. He spoke so confidently at first, yet in the end, he failed to draw out any of his Pokémon's potential. All he did was repeatedly use Cosmic Power while taking hits."
Hikaru's eyes widened. "Martin?"
"Oh, you know that designer?" Magnolia asked. "Apparently, he's rather famous. He came here to gather inspiration, only to be stranded by the blackout. His battle skills, however, leave much to be desired."
Hikaru couldn't help laughing.
The greatest of the four scourges of Max Raid Battles!
The honored first seat among Galar's Four Kings of Deadweight!
[Martin's Solrock used Cosmic Power!]
[Martin's Solrock used Rock Polish!]
[Martin's Solrock fainted!]
That NPC had sent countless players' blood pressure through the roof. During Max Raid Battles, he never dealt damage. He only stacked buffs, wasted turns, and sometimes got himself knocked out so many times that the entire party was wiped.
He was also the man who gave the protagonist a special T-shirt at Wyndon Stadium.
In the DLC, he got lost and wandered onto the Isle of Armor. Later, he even visited the Crown Tundra to participate in Dynamax Adventures. If the player already owned Regieleki or Regidrago, he would give them a hoodie with either a Legend: E or Legend: D design.
Giving away clothing was certainly nice of him, but having him as a teammate in a raid was an unmitigated disaster. Compared to Martin, even Peonia and her rampaging Tyrantrum looked perfectly reasonable.
"Ahem, then there's no problem!" Hikaru declared. "If Gloria could win while using Martin's Solrock, I completely acknowledge her strength. Though to be fair, I already did."
"If you intend to entrust an Egg to her, she'll be fine. She's certain to become an outstanding knight."
"In that case, why don't you entrust it to her yourself?" Magnolia suggested. "You can also explain the Crown Tundra's challenge program and share some classified information that hasn't been made public yet. For such a curious child, that should provide the best possible motivation to begin her journey."
"Incidentally, the other child next door appears to be quite interested in cooking. If you tell him there are Radiant Vegetables or rare treasures involved in witnessing the return of abundance, I'm sure he'll set out with her."
A love of cooking was one of Victor's established traits in Pokémon Masters EX.
A battle maniac paired with a chef?
In the manga, they were instead a technology-loving girl and an artisan who forged legendary weapons.
Even their names fit together—Gloria and Victor, glory and victory.
That was why victory always seemed to favor them.
Hop's name, meanwhile, came from both jumping and the hops used to brew beer. Unfortunately, he ultimately failed to make the great leap he had hoped for.
"Very well. I'll gladly accept the responsibility." Hikaru turned back to Gloria. "But first, I have a question."
"A question?" Gloria blinked.
Naturally, she recognized Hikaru as well.
Before the television feed had been cut, she had seen the ancient royals fleeing in a miserable state while Hikaru pursued them from behind and pushed them to the brink.
The traveler standing beside Professor Magnolia, carrying an enormous backpack, was undoubtedly far more powerful than most people realized.
It appeared some secret was involved in the task Professor Magnolia wished to entrust to her.
How interesting.
How delightful!
"What would you like to ask?"
Gloria sounded cheerful, and there was even a trace of excitement and well-hidden madness in her expression.
She looked like a quiet, refined girl, but her official Pokémon Masters EX personality was lively and mischievous. Combined with her seemingly effortless battle prowess...
"What do you think of Pokémon battles?" Hikaru asked.
If Leon were here, he would undoubtedly have followed the original script.
[I want Galar's Trainers to grow stronger, so hurry up, choose a Pokémon, and become strong!]
"They're fun, aren't they?" Gloria replied. "I only want to battle because I enjoy it."
"What can you really learn by asking something like that?" Sonia spread her hands. "Many people in Galar started battling because they admire Leon. Others train because they want to defeat him."
Gloria maintained her standard smile. "No. Mr. Leon may be very strong, but I don't admire him."
Sonia froze. "Huh?"
A peculiar look crossed Gloria's face.
"The most important reason to continue training isn't to defeat someone else. It's to improve little by little each day and surpass the person you used to be."
She looked at Hikaru.
"Admiration is the emotion furthest from understanding. That's why there's no need to worship anyone else."
"How's that for an answer?"
At the beginning of Sword and Shield, Gloria watched one of Leon's matches. However, considering that Leon didn't recognize her and everything that happened afterward, she really did battle and watch videos simply because she enjoyed them.
As for admiration...
"That was a good answer."
The first half was practically identical to something Gloria had said in Pokémon Masters EX. It was indeed the sort of thing this girl would say.
She enjoyed traveling because she was happy adventuring alone. Only after beating Hop for the umpteenth time did she realize it might also be nice to have someone accompany her.
But had she really reached that conclusion through personal growth?
Or had beating Hop simply become too boring?
In Pokémon Masters EX, she fought absurd matches exactly as she would in a mainline game.
Alder: I choose Volcarona—
Gloria: Wow, it's so strong! In that case, I choose Zacian.
The same tragedy befell Steven.
[Zacian defeated Metagross with overwhelming power.]
Two Champions had been reduced to speed bumps along Gloria's path.
Hikaru fell silent for a moment.
"I see. I understand your personality now."
If he imagined her as a gender-swapped Yugi Muto, everything immediately made sense.
She constantly claimed that games and battles brought smiles to people's faces, yet not a single person she defeated was smiling afterward.
"In that case, I have a top-level mission for you and the other child," Hikaru said. "While investigating Pokémon with golden auras and dens emitting purple light, catch as many Pokémon as you can. Afterward, challenge the Gyms and complete the Crown Tundra's knightly trials."
"Then make your way to the Round Table, where heroes gather."
"If the idea sounds interesting, you may accept. If it doesn't, you're free to refuse."
"If you're willing, choose one of these three Pokémon Eggs and take it with you. One of the key objectives of our upcoming data collection is determining whether investigating purple pillars of light and golden auras can produce highly capable partners with Gigantamax potential."
"If you discover a partner whose eyes glow, whose body is larger than normal, or who undergoes an Alpha transformation, report that as well."
"Once you pass the Crown Tundra's trials, the king will teach you a secret move. You may also be entrusted with an Egg containing a rare Pokémon found only in the Crown Tundra."
Gloria didn't hesitate. She maintained the smile of a true powerhouse.
"Yes! That sounds like fun. I've been looking forward to this day for a long time. It may feel a little early, but when it comes to something like this, the sooner, the better."
"I accept the mission!"
"Now, which one should I choose? How delightful... I'll take this one!"
Hikaru nodded. "Then here's your Pokédex."
The Egg she chose was...
"Rillaboom— Ahem. I mean, Grookey!"
Although official material seemed to associate Gloria with either Inteleon or Cinderace, the greatest winner of Sword and Shield was ultimately the gorilla!
"The rabbit can't use special attacks anyway, and they're both physical attackers. Libero isn't so liberating anymore, while Rillaboom's Special Attack may also be low, but it can learn the ultimate move Solar Beam from Calyrex. That special sunbeam has a base power of two hundred! Add the same-type attack bonus and Grassy Surge, and a single hit goes past three hundred!"
A special-attacking Rillaboom was a garbage build in the games, but reality didn't restrict a Pokémon to only four moves.
Under harsh sunlight, it could start with Fake Out, force the opponent to flinch, and then instantly unleash a three-hundred-power ultimate attack. Even a Pokémon that didn't have a weakness to Grass would be sent straight to the afterlife after taking that blast.
Hikaru turned to Marnie. "What about you? Are you going to take the challenge next year?"
The schedule had been moved significantly forward, but the main events of Sword and Shield had already concluded. At this point, it didn't particularly matter when the Champion Cup took place.
"That suits me perfectly."
Marnie didn't hesitate. She had wanted to test her skills in an official competition for a long time.
And now...
"A rival, huh? Even so, I'll defeat Bea-san and become the next Champion."
She would do it together with that Galarian Moltres!
"And I know exactly why," Marnie continued. "Mr. Leon will surely be too busy handling his duties as chairman to focus on the tournament. Therefore, there can only be one answer!"
"This is a perfect opportunity!"
————————————
"I was already surprised when I got the call. Being asked to help should be a good thing, but you want my little Pen-Pen to work for that Rose fellow? Isn't this nonsense over yet? It's really getting on my nerves."
"Rose isn't the chairman anymore? That makes it even worse!"
"Macro Cosmos is still standing, isn't it? Dissolve the whole company and then come talk to me!"
Even though Penny had come to the Energy Plant and completed preparations for emergency power generation, maintenance, and program restoration—and despite Oleana's detailed explanation—Peony still expressed twelve full measures of dissatisfaction from the other end of the call.
Oleana was becoming equally furious!
The two of them had behaved similarly during an Easter egg event in the Crown Tundra. After Chairman Rose was imprisoned, Oleana heard rumors that he had appeared in the tundra and briefly wondered whether he had escaped.
She knew such a thing was impossible, but she still went looking.
After a thorough search, she discovered that the man was actually Peony. She had been immensely disappointed—and then absolutely livid.
Because Oleana had secretly wandered through the tundra looking for the chairman, passing travelers spotted her and spread rumors about a long-haired female ghost haunting the Old Cemetery.
It had all become one enormous misunderstanding.
"I already told you that this is paid employment," Oleana said. "We're prepared to offer extremely generous compensation—"
"What?!" Peony roared. "I don't want anything to do with Macro Cosmos! Don't think you can use money to trap my little Pen-Pen in that garbage corporation, you rude little miss!"
"Rude little miss?!" Oleana sputtered. "Y-You...! You possess neither intelligence nor dignity! You may be brothers, but you and Mr. Rose are worlds apart! I, Oleana, am becoming angry!"
"Oh, yeah?!" Peony shot back. "Causing a disaster this massive is your idea of intelligence? All of Galar has been plunged into a blackout! You knocked society all the way back to before the Industrial Revolution! Is that supposed to demonstrate Rose's foresight?"
Oleana's fury immediately deflated.
"That was caused by the royal family, not the chairman..."
At the same time, she realized that even if she answered, "The chairman is merely too far-sighted and impatient sometimes," the man on the other end would probably unleash another ear-splitting roar.
Peony used Snarl!
It was super effective!
Oleana's Special Attack fell!
Beside Oleana, a small girl with red-and-blue hair and a backpack finished rewriting the program. Hearing her father's interrogation over the phone, she rolled her eyes.
"Refusing the money would be ridiculous, wouldn't it? No matter how you look at it, this is enough to cover a considerable amount of tuition."
"Phew... What a star-enuous day."
"But why did they recommend me?"
Penny shook her head.
How had word gotten out that she had been secretly studying programming and had become an expert in C?
Then again, Macro Cosmos's security systems and energy-management programs weren't anything special.
They weren't difficult at all.
"Please wait a moment, Miss Penny," Oleana called.
She covered the phone and turned toward Penny, who had been preparing to slip away.
"That gentleman will soon arrive with the energy module. We need to test the new program's operating status. He also specifically asked to meet you. He wishes to know whether you're interested in continuing your education at a university."
"University?!" Penny froze. "But my... I haven't even finished my current schooling. Still, Dad did mention it before..."
Because of Rose, Peony had no intention of allowing Penny to attend Hammerlocke University.
That was only natural.
Rose had invested in it!
The massive conglomerate known as Macro Cosmos practically controlled every aspect of life in Galar. As the man who despised his older brother more than anyone else, Peony naturally refused to let his children remain here.
His two daughters had different opinions on the matter. Peonia didn't see any reason to transfer schools, but her younger sister Penny appeared to have plans to pursue her education further.
In fact, Peony had already been considering Penny's future career path.
Attending a university in another region seemed like a good option.
Especially if it happened to be an elite institution with eight hundred years of history.
"That is the situation," Oleana said.
Her expression remained composed, though a trace of regret now appeared on her face.
"Someone with Miss Penny's talent should remain in the Galar region. However, after what the chairman has done, we have no effective means of persuading you to stay."
"It is one of our company's greatest regrets that we discovered a talent such as yours so late."
"Therefore, we must honestly convey that gentleman's question. We merely hope that after completing your education, Miss Penny will return to Galar and help build her homeland."
"That gentleman also said your talent resembles the constellations in the night sky."
"Please, you must persuade Mr. Peony. This truly is for Galar's sake."
"And the question that gentleman wished to ask is..."
Oleana suddenly stopped speaking and looked toward the entrance of the underground Energy Plant.
Penny turned in the same direction.
Someone had entered.
Who was it?!
Was this the person her father said he had met on the Isle of Armor?
"The question is whether you'd be interested in continuing your studies at Naranja Academy."
Hikaru walked inside with Regieleki. He looked toward the much younger Penny, who appeared flustered by his arrival.
"Naranja Academy has developed a few undesirable tendencies among its student body lately, but you won't need to concern yourself with those students for the time being."
"Regardless, it remains a school with eight hundred years of history. Its library contains books gathered from across the world—works concerning the past, the present, and even imagined possibilities for the future."
"Astronomy, geography, mathematics, foreign languages, everyday life skills, history, and, most importantly, the study of Pokémon battles... It covers practically everything."
"If you decide to go, I'll first arrange for you to intern with a research team led by a man named Clavell."
Oleana interjected at the appropriate moment.
"Of course, Miss Penny, Macro Cosmos will reimburse every expense and fee you incur at Naranja Academy. You needn't worry about a thing!"
"W-W-Wait!" Penny stammered. "Why me?"
"You're Dad's friend... You're the person who appeared on television!"
"You caught those royals who wanted to reclaim their authority in the Crown Tundra! Dad said he only let me come because it was you..."
"You possess exceptional talent," Hikaru said. "I intend to invite you to become the local Frontier Brain."
"Please wait, Lord Hikaru," Oleana abruptly interrupted, her expression wavering. "That isn't what we agreed upon. A Frontier Brain is supposed to be—"
"The leader of a Battle Frontier facility," Hikaru finished. "But you needn't worry, Miss Oleana. I'll do everything I can to prevent Chairwoman Geeta from poaching Galar's talent."
"In Galar, Penny will remain a citizen and employee of Galar. In Paldea, she'll serve as a Frontier Brain. There are precedents for people holding different leadership positions in two separate regions."
In the original story, Penny had been bullied and forced to take a leave of absence. Even after the matter was resolved, Geeta made her work without pay to compensate for hacking the League's system.
All those problems could have been avoided.
As long as Geeta never obtained leverage over Penny, she could escape her destiny as the ultimate wage slave.
Then again, even if Penny eventually quit, she could always return to Macro Cosmos. If Geeta wanted to retain such talent, she would have to pay for it.
Constantly turning other people into exploited workers was rather unbecoming behavior for a great capitalist.
"When different corporations and conglomerates compete for exceptional talent, they're forced to pay a higher price," Hikaru said. "That benefits the talent in question as well, doesn't it, Miss Oleana?"
"After all, an uncut gem must never be left buried in the dust."
Those words struck the deepest memory within Oleana's heart.
Long ago, she had been an ordinary researcher employed by Macro Cosmos. She had been unable to calculate the correct control values for Dynamax.
One after another, the other members of her research team had left until the group dissolved, leaving her to continue her work alone.
That was when Chairman Rose had appeared.
[How wonderful. I never imagined an uncut gem would be buried in a place like this. What is your name?]
The chairman's words had become the pillar supporting Oleana's spirit.
They were also the most important reason she supported Rose unconditionally.
"I see... An uncut gem."
Oleana fell silent.
"I understand. We'll proceed accordingly."
"However, I would prefer Miss Penny to first take a position with a Galarian company. This is a necessary precaution against recruitment efforts by the Paldea League."
"A Frontier Brain is employed by a battle facility rather than a local corporation, so the two positions wouldn't conflict. Would that be acceptable?"
"And what does Miss Penny herself think?"
"Me?" Penny pointed at herself.
She had never expected two different Leagues to immediately recognize her as a precious talent and start fighting over her.
This turning point in her life had arrived far too early—and far too quickly!
"Um... Could I finish school here before going there?"
"Of course," Hikaru said. "Do whatever you want. Exceptional technical specialists never have to worry about finding work."
"We have no objections," Oleana agreed.
"However, I've heard that your older sister, Peonia, also has a talent for Pokémon research. Has she considered which research institute she'd like to work for someday? Or does she intend to specialize exclusively in exploration and field investigation?"
"The Galar region will have countless locations requiring investigation in the future. Our corporation can provide her with a stage upon which she can fully demonstrate her abilities."
"I'm not sure." Penny scratched her head. "I'm probably fine, but if you try to recruit my sister too, Dad really will get angry."
Oleana remembered Peony and sighed.
"Very well. We understand. Still, please ask her to consider the matter carefully."
"Even if she chooses not to work for Macro Cosmos, we can recommend her to other renowned companies or even Hammerlocke University."
"After all, investigation and exploration are extremely important fields of work."
Penny thought about her sister.
When it came to investigating Pokémon, Peonia always behaved in an easygoing manner, but perhaps she was actually even more capable than their father.
Dad only investigated by watching television. He called himself a professional adventurer, but sometimes he looked like a complete amateur.
"Dad really does intend to send me to another university," Penny said. "Studying abroad would broaden my horizons and help me improve in all sorts of ways."
She scratched her head again.
"But traveling alone to an unfamiliar region is still a little scary."
"I see." Hikaru smiled. "Then I'll give you a reason you can't refuse."
"Is there a certain kind of Pokémon you particularly like?"
"What's your favorite Pokémon?"
If he directly told Penny that he knew she loved Eevee, the young girl might find him terrifying.
Giving Rose or other researchers an answer before they asked the question was a good way to capture their attention, but doing that to a child would only frighten her.
"My favorite Pokémon?" Penny answered honestly. "Eevee!"
"Eevee is adorable, isn't it?"
Hikaru's expression turned grave.
"In the Paldea region, Eevee's evolved forms are everywhere."
"They're all wild. Even Sylveon can be found roaming around."
In Galar, Eevee's evolved forms could only be encountered near the Lake of Outrage in the Wild Area, with different evolutions appearing under different weather conditions.
That made obtaining every Eeveelution rather difficult.
In Paldea, however, the situation was entirely different.
"Paldea has as many Eevee as the roadside has stray dogs."
No, they practically were stray dogs.
Penny's eyes sharpened.
I was going to refuse.
But there are simply too many Eevee over there!
"D-Deal!"
Oleana stared. "He convinced her... instantly?!"
She had agreed far too quickly!
Hikaru and Penny shook hands.
"It appears we've reached an agreement. Congratulations. You are now the Paldea region's second Frontier Brain."
"Before that, however, remember that you'll also possess authority here in Galar. Make good use of it."
"No matter what happens, always remember that you have another path available. As long as you possess something to offer in exchange, your superior will have no choice but to consider your request. That's extremely important in the workplace."
"Now, let's test the new program."
"The device will be powered by Galar Particles, so it requires a corresponding conversion program to function. We'll see whether the electricity supply can be fully restored and transmitted throughout Galar!"
Hikaru gripped the Quick Ball in his hand.
"Here we go!"
"Electric crystal—release your power!"
"Legendary giant, Regieleki!"
——————————
New records were added to the notebook.
The team now possessed not only a legendary giant with tremendous electrical power, but also Capitalist Gas—the first Poison-type general to join the roster.
There was also the temporary new member who was equally economical to maintain: Nebby.
[Galarian Weezing, the Poison Gas Pokémon. It feeds on toxins and resembles a steam engine.]
[Encountered in the mist of the Slumbering Weald.]
[It is a Poison- and Fairy-type Pokémon with a Serious nature.]
[It possesses the signature move Strange Steam.]
[It has a hardworking personality and is capable of enduring hardship.]
[Regieleki, the Electron Pokémon. One of the legendary giants.]
[Defeated at the Split-Decision Ruins and presented as a gift by the King of the Giants.]
[It has a Hasty nature.]
[Once the restraints on its body are removed, its hidden reserve energy is activated. The amplification granted by its Ability rises from thirty percent to fifty percent, releasing its true power.]
[It has an arrogant personality and recklessly unleashes its strength. That was why it was sealed away.]
[As a living source of energy, its potential is limitless!]
[Cosmog, the Nebula Pokémon. It grows slowly by bathing in light and gathering dust.]
[Its name was given to it by the Aether Foundation.]
[This Child of the Stars was discovered in the Crown Tundra and will soon return to its rightful home.]
[It has a Timid nature.]
[When cared for, it quickly becomes affectionate. Perhaps because of this personality, Cosmog frequently finds itself in dangerous situations.]
[It can open Ultra Wormholes in the sky and teleport. Aside from that, it possesses no combat power whatsoever.]
[It can sense approaching danger and has an easily startled personality.]
——————————
Galar's reconstruction continued in an orderly but gradual fashion.
When electricity began flowing again, joyful cheers rose throughout the entire region.
The temporary supply wouldn't last long, but the mere presence of electricity filled people's lives with hope and light—just as it had when the Industrial Revolution began two hundred years earlier.
Little by little, people began returning to their hometowns.
The people of Galar held a public referendum to determine the fate of the royal family and their aristocratic supporters.
Macro Cosmos possessed enormous influence within the League committee. However, because Chairman Rose had publicly resigned and admitted that he alone had entered into an agreement with the royals, the public didn't treat the corporation itself as an enemy.
Piers spoke to Hikaru over the phone.
"At most, Macro Cosmos can be accused of poor oversight. That's what the higher-ups are saying."
"The chairman accepted full responsibility. As the person chiefly accountable, he'll obviously be imprisoned."
"But the ones who actually attacked the Energy Plant were the ancient royals. Quite a few people think Chairman Rose was dragged into their scheme because he failed to recognize the true nature of those aristocrats."
"A surprising number of ordinary people still agree with the chairman's ideals."
That was understandable.
In Pokémon Masters EX, Chairman Rose's speech had won the agreement of people such as Volkner and Clemont.
There was no shortage of people who shared his views.
"Of course, the Spikemuth Chamber of Commerce and its supporters believe the chairman stubbornly pushed ahead while ignoring some of Dynamax's risks, which ultimately invited the royal family's greed. He can't escape responsibility for that."
"You've already seen the referendum's results. That includes the judgment passed against the royals. There's no calming the public's fury this time."
"All I can say is that we're fortunate their royal authority had already declined so much. Otherwise, this could've become a massive disaster. Galar might even have split into three different countries."
"The Celebrity company has been ordered to cease operations and dissolve. Do you know them? They were Galar's largest textile company."
"They supplied fabrics made with the help of Psychic- and Fairy-type Pokémon, along with high-quality silk from Bug types. You may even have bought some of their products."
"Now that conglomerate is finished. The market share they left behind will be divided among smaller companies and their chief rival, Daily Discovery."
"The greatest business strategy really is doing nothing and waiting for your competitor to act like an idiot."
"Much of the royal family's funding has been cut off as well. Sordward and those closest to him will spend a very long time in prison."
"The remaining local royals are almost completely out of options."
"They concealed the existence of the true legendary heroes, and now they must accept the consequences. Perhaps this ending was already decided three thousand years ago."
"In other words, Galar no longer needs any king besides Calyrex."
"Just as in the legend, the king of men must return the sword and shield, allow his soul to rest, and ascend to the heavens."
"Oh, right! The Spikemuth Chamber of Commerce is flourishing again. Many people are planning to move here."
"The process may have been completely wrong, but it unexpectedly brought the town back to life."
"Marnie also became one of the king's knights. Those ancient royals originally held a live broadcast to display their own power, yet in the end, all they accomplished was advertising you and your companions. It's honestly hilarious."
"Many people have come here because of Marnie, so I gave her a letter of endorsement for the Gym Challenge."
"It ordinarily wouldn't happen this early, but she's not a little child anymore. At least, that's how it seems."
"Leon became Champion at ten, so perhaps this age isn't actually that young. Maybe I spoiled her too much in the past."
"I owe you my thanks. I was incredibly nervous at the time, of course, but having another Champion serve as a guide really does help young people mature faster, doesn't it?"
"Compared to that, I can only manage a few insignificant things."
"As for the next chairman... Chairman Rose recommended me, but I genuinely don't want the position. I don't possess that kind of strength or influence."
"So Leon took over instead."
"He was already planning the Galarian Star Tournament to fill the gap before the next Champion Cup, wasn't he?"
"However, he invited me to represent the Spikemuth Chamber of Commerce as vice chairman."
"It's supposedly just an honorary title, but he was so sincere about it. Even Ms. Oleana insisted, so I couldn't refuse."
"Because of that... please explain things to Roxie and Mirai-san regarding the concert in Almia. I can't attend."
"Besides, after I thought it through, that place started to frighten me. I wonder whether they're afraid as well."
"Honestly, we probably shouldn't go. It sounds like not all of the crystal fragments have been recovered, so it's still dangerous."
"By now, many people know that next year's Champion Cup will feature knight candidates, matches between heroes, and Leon—the man being praised as Galar's new legend for saving everyone."
"That title sounds far grander than 'the Unbeatable Champion.' After all, now he's the Savior."
"Because of that, the public has become even more excited."
"Next year's competition may not be the strongest Champion Cup in history, but public interest will probably shoot through the roof."
Piers continued rambling, but his words were filled with relief.
The atmosphere in Spikemuth was steadily improving. Many industries had resumed operation now that the royal family's monopolies had been broken.
Naturally, Piers also intended to continue his career as a singer.
"There are other matters as well. Nessa, Kabu, and the others all said they wanted to thank you."
"The Gym Leaders affected by Dynamax will continue training. Looking at it this way, Chairman Rose's plan to help them fully master Dynamax wasn't wrong. His timing was simply terrible."
"Oh, right! Remember to watch the important program."
"It's about the Crown Tundra's king and the knightly trials!"
"Everyone wants to become a hero."
"Before that distant city of ideals, the people of Galar have once again been filled with dreams and brilliance."
"I never imagined the legendary king Pokémon would return to the world and begin selecting Knights of the Round Table."
"It has already attracted tremendous attention, as have the two young knight candidates you recommended."
"But making those two—especially the girl in the green tam—the first human knights of the new age... Isn't that a little excessive?"
The public television screens in Spikemuth were broadcasting the legend of Calyrex.
In a single day, all of Galar had come to remember the big-headed king and support it from the bottom of their hearts.
After all, Calyrex had played the most critical role in saving Galar.
Its story would probably continue to be told for at least another thousand years.
"A future one thousand years from now... Isn't that exactly the result Chairman Rose hoped for?"
"The outcome is good."
"Even with the chairman in prison, the world continues to advance in an orderly fashion according to the plans and ideas he left behind."
"The selection of the Knights of the Round Table will influence the next ten, twenty, thirty, or even one hundred years of history."
"He truly possessed remarkable foresight."
"He simply looked too far ahead."
"Oh, Professor Sonia and Professor Magnolia have departed for Sinnoh."
"Isn't that a little early?"
Piers and the people of Spikemuth watched the program together.
The footage hadn't been recorded by Calyrex itself. Instead, the program explained the legend through third-person narration and clips taken from the royal family's live broadcast.
[Knights of the Round Table: The collective name given to the knights whose names are recorded in the legend of Calyrex. The title comes from the king and his followers gathering around a round table. Everyone seated there stands as an equal, making them a symbol admired throughout the nation!]
[Exclusive Freezington T-shirts and locally grown vegetables are selling fast! These specialties from the king's homeland are not to be missed! Those who pass the knightly trials will receive the king's blessing and prizes!]
The mayor of Freezington also appeared for an interview.
With the Flower Paradise behind him, the elderly mayor enthusiastically introduced the legendary secret realm.
[First among our newly established tourist attractions is the sunlit Crown Shrine, where visitors may pay their respects to the king and the gathering place of heroes!]
[Next is the Great Sacred Mountain, where Galar's great red dragon, Eternatus, sleeps! Dangerous creatures appear within the caverns below, making them the perfect place for Trainers seeking to test themselves!]
[Then there is the great den among the five stones where the King of the Giants once slept! Lie down in the Giant's Bed yourself, and perhaps you'll dream of the same world as the King of the Giants!]
[At the southernmost edge of the tundra stands a pale-red giant tree. It is said to be guarded by a Greedent that protects its Berries! Defeat it, and you may obtain the mythical Starf Berry! Come challenge it with your friends!]
[The pristine Snowslide Slope and ancient Old Cemetery have now become fertile fields where our local Iceroot and Shaderoot Carrots are grown! You've never seen farmland like this in any other snowy country!]
[Lapras sing upon the Frigid Sea, filling the frozen waters with their beautiful voices!]
[The former Frostpoint Field is now a golden prairie, where emerald grass sways among waves of gold! If you don't visit, you'll regret it for the rest of your life!]
[At the ruins where the legendary giants were sealed, visitors may take photographs and explore to their hearts' content! These sites are favorites among archaeologists and ruin enthusiasts!]
[The Split-Decision Ruins are now open to outsiders. Legendary metals may still be hidden there, so come and search for them yourself!]
[At the southernmost edge of the region lies a destination every paranormal enthusiast must visit: the Spiritomb gravestone beside Ballimere Lake!]
[And finally, in the north, there is Freezington itself—now overflowing with flowers!]
————————————
Within the tower of the Eternal Battle Reverie, Calyrex returned with all the dignity of a king.
This time, it had brought every hero of the Galar region!
The phantom Entei guarding the tower was astonished by the sight.
Entei had slept inside the dream world throughout the battle in the Crown Tundra. It rarely left the tower anymore.
As a phantom, it didn't need to eat. Although it could manifest physically, it suffered no loss of life force and had no need for food.
"Oh, King, now this is a truly powerful lineup!"
"All the legendary Pokémon of the Galar region... Hey, wait! You even brought that poisonous dragon?"
"This team can't possibly serve as the challenger. You should be defending the tower!"
"Defending it would be no fun!" Calyrex declared confidently. "I wish to issue a challenge!"
This time, even against Arceus, it had no reason to lose!
"I shall become the first Pokémon to conquer this tower! I shall stand above the Elite Four and become the Poké Champion!"
"Now, quickly arrange opponents for me!"
Entei thought for a moment.
"I see. In that case, I'll gather powerful Trainers who wish to battle you. Those human Champions can defend the tower from within their dreams."
"Champions who seek strength should be delighted to face the full power of Galar!"
Because the various regions existed in different time zones, someone was always challenging or defending the Eternal Battle Reverie.
As more skilled Trainers entered the dream to spar, the number of defenders and challengers continued to increase.
Anyone who came here possessed at least Gym Leader-level strength.
Even so, most of them were actually Champion-class Trainers.
In the Eternal Battle Reverie, Champions were as common as stray dogs by the roadside.
Opponents soon began registering.
"The Trainers assigned as gatekeepers will serve as your opponents. After you clear every three floors, an Elite Four member or Champion will appear."
"However, everyone has limited sleeping time, so the challenge itself has a time limit."
"Some people are entering during short afternoon naps. You'll have to be understanding."
"The tower's current construction progress is... twenty-one floors."
"It won't be growing any taller in the immediate future. The higher it becomes, the more difficult it is to construct."
"During the Hisui era, this tower supposedly had fifty floors. The final floor always led to a battle against Arceus."
"Mega Rayquaza and its Trainer, the Dragon God, may appear as members of the Elite Four. Terapagos and Professor Sada could also appear during the challenge."
"Meanwhile, on the sixth floor, you will inevitably encounter Unova's three legendary Pokémon."
"There are currently eight people with enough free time to battle you..."
Cynthia from another world.
Higan.
Professor Sada.
Alder.
Brendan.
Ethan from another world.
Leaf.
And one other person.
The eight would appear according to a randomized schedule.
During the final match, Calyrex would challenge two Champion-class Trainers simultaneously.
"Hmm."
Calyrex studied the randomized schedule.
Leaving aside the fact that Pokédex holders apparently qualified as Champion-class Trainers...
Its first opponent was Geeta!
Why was this Paldean Champion available on demand at every hour of the day and night?
Wasn't she supposed to be incredibly busy?
————————————
At the Ranger Union headquarters in the Almia region, an elderly professor with a white beard and an old woman with braided hair stood in a research laboratory, discussing the Dark Crystal with a large group of Pokémon Rangers.
The professor was Professor Hastings, the Ranger Union's Chief of Technology.
The braided old woman was Chairperson Erma, leader of the Ranger Union.
"The conference is about to begin," Professor Hastings said. "This time, we'll have an opportunity to meet people who understand mythology."
"While we're gone, the Union must hurry to develop the Impossible Program."
"Have someone escort Rand's daughter here from the Oblivia region. She should arrive soon, shouldn't she?"
"Having Wendy escort her would be the safest option."
"Sven isn't at the Union either. He's still searching for ruins in the wilderness."
"And then there's the recent emergency... How troublesome."
"We'll return immediately after the conference ends. This meeting is extremely important. Researchers from every region will gather there, so we're certain to gain access to the most advanced program-development technology."
"I've even heard there will be technology surpassing the limits of this era!"
"Chairperson Erma, I'd like to go as well," Elaine said. "Even more capable mechanics will be coming. Could I go and study the new mechanical technology?"
"Of course," Erma replied. "Once Nema arrives, you can accompany us to Sinnoh, Elaine."
"This is an excellent learning opportunity. You must treasure it."
"Still, the situation has deteriorated with alarming speed."
"Terrible news seems to arrive every few days. Problems are occurring all over the world, and the Ranger Union can't spare additional personnel to operate in our own region."
"Therefore, the Union has decided to appoint another Top Ranger."
"That's right," Professor Hastings declared. "The new Top Ranger will lead a team in a raid and search operation against the Oil Field Hideout!"
"He distinguished himself in the Fiore region—Keith!"
"Starting today, he will become the Ranger Union's eleventh Top Ranger!"
Keith, the walking total-party-wipe generator, entered the hall with overwhelming excitement.
He felt certain he would finally distinguish himself in Almia.
After all, he was a Top Ranger now!
Keith muttered to himself, practically trembling with enthusiasm.
"Kellyn, Kate... You still haven't become Top Rangers? You don't even qualify as elite Rangers yet?"
"Then watch my back."
"I'll become the greatest Pokémon Ranger of all!"
"How could a Top Ranger possibly fail?"
Author's Note: I finished writing this yesterday, then deleted and rewrote a huge portion of it, so it wasn't posted until today. Sorry, sorry!
(End of Chapter)
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