You had just arrived in Stow-on-Side, a small shop district surrounded by mountains, dry terrain, and hot weather.

Stow-on-Side Stadium!

A short minute-long walk later, you found yourself in front of Stow-On-Side's Pokémon Gym. A Fighting-type Gym, to be exact. You were currently taking on Galar's Pokémon League, having already beaten four Gym Leaders, Milo, Nessa, Kabu, and Allister. You were endorsed by the Champion of Galar himself too, so, not like you could really say no to going through this whole thing...

Speaking of Champion Leon, his little brother, Hop, just walked out the front doors of the stadium, a long sigh leaving his mouth. He was also endorsed by Champion Leon (obviously), and was even one of the first friends you had made ever since first arriving in the Galar Region. Hop soon looked up from the floor, slightly perking up once he noticed you standing there.

Hop: "Oh... Hey mate... I was wondering when you were gonna show. You here to get the Fighting Badge too..?"

That you were. You were here to fight Bea, the fighting-type Gym Leader of Stow-on-Side Stadium. But... You couldn't help but notice that Hop sounded awfully dejected now, which was a huge switch from his regular personality.