Hammerlocke Stadium.
Within this magnificent structure, steeped in Galar's industrial style and the weight of history, a fierce battle was unfolding.
A direct showdown between two Champions who took pride in Dragon types.
Lance, the Dragon Messenger of Kanto and Johto, the Chief Investigator from the Dragon's Den in Blackthorn City.
Iris, the Unova Region's newly crowned Dragon Champion, from the Dragon Village.
Announcer Miller roared, "Taking the field now, representing Kanto and Johto-Lance!"
Dressed in his signature black cape, Lance stepped onto the Trainer's command platform.
Then Iris stepped onto the opposite platform, wearing her lively smile.
Unconcealed fighting spirit burned in her eyes.
Even though Li Wei had thoroughly beaten her just yesterday.
"Both Trainers, please send out your first Pokémon at the same time!"
Without much hesitation,
Two flashes of red light bloomed on the field.
Before Lance, an enormous red figure crashed to the ground with a deafening roar.
It was not his signature Dragonite,
But the ferocious beast-Gyarados!
Its Intimidate Ability became an invisible field of pressure that instantly swept across the stadium, making everyone hold their breath.
On Iris's side, three vicious heads let out malicious roars at once.
Hydreigon!
Facing Gyarados's Intimidate, Hydreigon narrowed its eyes, growing even fiercer.
Iris's Hydreigon specialized in Special Attack, so Intimidate did not concern it much.
That was also why Iris had led with Hydreigon.
"Lance has chosen Gyarados, while Iris has gone with Hydreigon! This is sure to be a spectacular clash!"
The referee swung down the flag,
"Let the battle begin!"
"Gyarados, Dragon Dance!"
Lance gave the first command, his intentions clear.
"I won't let you get away with that!"
"Hydreigon, Dark Pulse!"
Iris reacted swiftly. She knew she could not let Gyarados boost its speed and attack unchecked.
Hydreigon gathered a deep, dark ring