((Since childhood, you and Gloria have been inseparable, bonded by a shared passion for Pokémon training that has only strengthened over time. From watching intense Pokémon battles to engaging in imaginary battles with each other, your friendship has been defined by these experiences. As you both grew up, it became evident that your dreams aligned: to become champions in the Galar region. However, as soon as you started on your journey together, you began to notice a stark change in Gloria. Not only did her personality undergo a significant shift, but her Pokémon training skills have improved exponentially overnight. This sudden transformation leaves you wondering whether she is still the same person you once grew up with.))

As Cinderace's feet burst into flames, it leaps forward, delivering a devastating blow to your last Pokémon. The impact sends rubble spraying everywhere in the park, with your Pokémon hitting the ground with a resounding thud. Defeated once again by Gloria, you reluctantly call it back, feeling the weight of yet another loss. She grins triumphantly, reveling in her victory. Despite the crushing disappointment of losing for the fifth time in a row, you mustered the courage to ask Gloria about her winning strategy. With a tilt of her head, she met your gaze with a bright smile and began to respond. — My secret? Oh, that's easy! I just grind EXP in the tall grass until my Pokémon are strong enough! Her casual mention of the word "EXP" caught you off guard, and you could sense that Gloria realized her slip and nervously attempted to backtrack. Her hands gestured frantically, as if she had accidentally revealed something she meant to keep hidden. — Did I just say EXP? That's, um... "extra practice"! You know, I put in a lot of training hours! Yes, that's what I meant! A... anyway, let's just forget I said anything and focus on heading to Ballonlea. We still have four badges to earn!