Chloe might have been able to make snide remarks to Paris, but there was nothing she could do to Fantina.
After all, unlike Paris, who looked easy to push around, Fantina had a powerful presence no matter how one looked at her and did not seem easy to deal with.
Besides, a Gym Leader's social standing and her popularity were clearly beyond anything a Pokémon Style Designer could match.
In this world, ultimately, those with greater strength had more weight behind their words.
"Oh, Miss Fantina. I didn't expect you to be here too." Chloe nodded to Fantina, reining in her words somewhat. Her attitude was completely different from how she had treated Paris. "I only came here to register and happened to see the esteemed Paris, so I came over to say hello, that's all. Well, since you have things to do, I won't disturb you."
Without waiting for Fantina to speak, Chloe turned and left with her companions.
It seemed her brief appearance here had been for nothing more than to announce to Paris that she would be entering the competition.
Although Fantina did not know exactly what had just happened, the atmosphere alone had already given her an idea.
"Honestly." Watching Chloe walk away, she sighed helplessly. "Can't our Pokémon designers in Hearthome City just get along?"
Only then did May feel that confrontational atmosphere suddenly disappear. As her taut nerves relaxed along with it, she could not help asking curiously, "Who was that?"
"She's Chloe, a famous Pokémon Style Designer here in Hearthome City." Paris answered her, clearly knowing all about her. The two were evidently very familiar with each other. "We've... known each other since we were children, and we followed this path together. We're friends, but also... rivals."
"Friends?" May hesitated. "Is that really