Yet he and Floria had easily shattered my expectations.
I had seen him at Lawn Stadium. I had seen him at Bau Stadium. This was how he battled.
My heart trembled. I was moved. My soul screamed so loudly. I truly wanted to let that scream burst from my mouth.
For the first time, I had truly seen what a real Pokémon battle was.
I wanted to see more. I wanted to feel more. After dwelling on it for a long time, I realized I was utterly captivated by Furia's battles. I was certain he was faster than anyone in Galar.
"I feel like one of Fria's troublesome fans."
The words slipped out of my mouth, and I couldn't help laughing. Yes, I was a fan. I loved his battles. I was his fan, and most importantly, he had become my goal.
Other people might aspire to become Champions or Gym Leaders. But I admired him, someone close to me. Of course the amazing people you saw on television were amazing. Yet this guy beside me was about my age, with about as much strength at his disposal. And still, he could put on such astonishing battles. Precisely because he was so close to us, we found him incredible.
There was still a long road ahead, but I absolutely wanted to catch up through this Gym Challenge. I wanted to become someone strong, someone who could battle in a captivating way. Before I knew it, a goal had taken shape inside me, one I could proudly declare as I undertook the Gym Challenge.
"I've got to work harder!"
I raised my voice toward the sea, then suddenly remembered I was outside and glanced around in a panic. Fortunately, nobody was nearby, sparing me the embarrassment. I breathed a sigh of