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kodzue-ken · 1 year ago

Text

The Way to Victory

Character: Hop (pkmn sw/sh)

Genre: angst/comfort

Length: 7.3k

Notes: this is a crossover with fire emblem: three houses but it’s just the characters that are hanging around, this might not be fully edited

“Aw, man!” Hop cried, putting one hand on his hip and the other on his forehead, closing that eye and sighing. “I lost again! You’re so strong Bede! I’ll win next time!” Hop returned his Rillaboom and smiled at Bede.

“I know,” Bede scoffed, running his hand through his hair. “I’m much stronger than you, I don’t even know why you’re competing!” He laughed, returning his Gothorita. Hop’s smile faltered at his words but he kept it up.

“Well,” Hop began, “my bro’s the Champion, so I’m gonna make him proud!” He put both hands on his hips.

“Honestly, I doubt that,” Bede shrugged, “if you can’t beat me, then you have no shot against the Champion.” Hop felt tears fill his eyes for a second before he shook his head and smiled again. Bede stared Hop down as he opened his mouth to say something else, however, he was interrupted by the heavy sounds of a Pokémon making its way over to them. They both turned to see a large Mudsdale coming their way.

“Hop! Kiddo!” A familiar voice called, coming closer and sliding off the Pokémon.

“Auntie Leonie!” Hop forced a grin as he greeted her. The orange-haired female grinned and opened her arms for him.

“Come give me a hug!” Leonie laughed, Hop wasted no time in racing over to her and accepting it. Leonie laughed and patted his head. “I see you’re doing some battling! I’m actually planning on meeting Lysithea here, if she can leave Allistar alone for a second!”

Hop laughed and nodded his head, “she’s really learning a lot from him, at least, I think she is.”

“Well, you know her,” Leonie agreed, she then turned her attention to the white-haired boy. “Who are you?”

“I’m Bede. I’m a challenger for the Gym Challenge and I was recommended by the Chairmen!” Bede scoffed, waiting for Leonie to act in awe of him.

“Neat,” was the only thing she said before she turned back to her Mudsdale and opened her arms. Hop watched as her Glaceon leaped into the waiting arms of her trainer. Hop watched as Bede stared with an incredulous look on his face as Leonie simply hummed and turned her attention back to Hop.

“Is Lys close?” Hop asked, remembering the blatant refusal to be called “auntie” or “aunt” by the short white-haired girl.

“Should be,” Leonie nodded, “Bead, was it?”

“Bede,” Bede corrected with a smile, adjusting his jacket a little and nodding his head. “I’ll be going now, better get stronger so we can have an actual battle next time. Or, don’t, it doesn’t matter to me. I’ll beat you every time,” Bede scoffed as he walked off.

“Alright now, you listen-“ Leonie began.

“It’s okay Auntie, I just need to do a little more training,” Hop smiled and stuck his hands in his pockets.

“Alright. But at least let me heal your Pokémon,” Leonie said, reaching into her saddlebags and healing them. Hop watched her as he fidgeted his feet, thoughts racing.

“Here you go, kiddo,” Hop lifted his head and smiled, taking his Pokémon back.

“Thanks, Auntie Leonie!” He grinned and went to race off.

“Ugh,” a voice stopped him in his tracks. “Of all places to meet. Why here Leonie, there are bugs!” A head full of white hair entered the area and Hop grinned.

“Lys!”

“Huh?” Lysithea lifted her head and when she met Hop's eyes she smiled. “Hey there, Hop,” she waved.

“Are you both gonna battle?” Hop asked.

“Yep! Lysithiea wanted to fight so we are!” Leonie bent down and allowed the Glaceon to jump from her arms.

“I did no such thing. That’s childish,” Lysithea scoffed, bringing her own hands up to pull the Umbreon off her head.

“Er...” Leonie sweatdropped, “of course not. You just wanted a friendly meet up and the best thing to do at one of those is having a pokemon battle?” Leonie sounded strained as she spoke but Lysithea shrugged.

“Sounds right to me,” she turned to Hop, “are you gonna watch?” She asked.

“Maybe for a little,” Hop nodded, thinking it would be a good idea to watch strong people battle so he could learn a little more.

“Of course,” Leonie said, deciding not to mention that Hop had changed his mind from before, she assumed it was nothing more than a change of mind because Lysithea had arrived and he didn’t have to wait. She nudged her Glaceon towards Hop and Lysithea soon did the same with her Umbreon. Hop settled himself on a small rock with Umbreon and Glaceon right next to him.

“Weavile!”

“Chandelure!” The two released their Pokémon and Leonie was awed at the sight of Lysithea’s Chandelure.

“It evolved!” She gushed, “where’d you get the Dusk Stone?”

“Allister gave it to me,” Lysithea hummed, very proud of her pokemon.

“Of course he did,” Leonie murmured, “did you pressure him or did he actually give it to you?” Hop laughed a little while Lysithea narrowed her eyes.

“Ugh! Chandelure, flamethrower!” Lysithea pointed, even though there was only one target, Hop assumed she just liked to do that when she battled. Her Pokémon listened and set a stream of fire towards the dual type.

“Night slash!” Leonie calmly ordered. Hop watched as Leonie still looked calm even though she was at a type disadvantage.

It was better than him, at least.

Hop said he would only watch a little but he was soon mesmerized by the strength that Leonie and Lysithea displayed. Leonie’s Weavile had been wiped out by Chandelure only for Leonie to snap around and knock Chandelure out with her Mudsdale. Lysithea frowned and released her Trevant, where Leonie let out another cry of surprise about her Phantump evolving. Hop ran his fingers through the two eeveelutions fur and hummed. Lysithea never showed any interest in the gym challenge, only an interest in Allister and about his gym (Lysithea just wanted to become a gym trainer or someone that could help Allister if he got sick, even though Bea could’ve taken over the gym for that day)

Hop envied her. Lysithea has set her sights on something and was shooting for it. Hop had also heard that Lysithea wanted to open a bakery, so she was trying to get more money, but Lysithea wouldn’t ever admit it.

Leonie, on the other hand, participated in the gym challenge when she was younger. Hop assumed Lysithea had as well but she never said so, claiming that it was “childish to get into it”. Leonie had made it to the final but never got past the other gym challengers. If anyone asked about her time in the challenge she would simply laugh, and say that she had a wonderful time but now likes to be a guide to the next generation of gym challengers.

Hop had heard the tales from a few other gym challengers that a “women riding a Mudsdale” had helped them get somewhere. He was proud of her.

Because she had a place. A dream. And she had done it.

“Hey!” Hop called out, Lysithea and Leonie stopped their battle. They were both down to their last pokemon; Leonie’s Lucario and Lysithea’s Aegislash.

“What’s up, Hop?” Lysithea asked.

“I had fun watching your battle but I think I’m gonna go now!” Hop waved, patting Glaceon and Umbreon and standing. “I’ll see you later!”

“Yep! See you kiddo!” Leonie grinned and waved. Hop smiled at the two and walked away.

He walked through the areas of the Wild Area and let his thoughts go.

What’s to say that Bede isn’t right? Bede is someone that he had to fight again. Those were the rules of the gym challenge.

Bede was strong.

Bede had full confidence in his Pokémon.

Bede was recommended by Chairman Rose.

Bede had beat Hop more than once.

Bede was stronger.

Hop had no chance.

Hop was weaker.

Hop couldn’t ever hold a candle to Leon.

Hop felt the tears come back as he shuddered and walked through the Wild Area. Hop hated it, was there really no chance for him? He was stuck in his head.

Hop didn’t stand a chance. He was a fool for thinking he could become Champion, a real idiot for thinking he could beat Leon. He couldn’t even beat some of the gym leaders in one go, even if it was a bad matchup for them. There was no reason for Hop to continue the gym challenge if he knew that he couldn’t do anything. Instead, all he’d be was a disgrace to Leon. Even though competitions weren’t held in Galar, Hop was certain someone would find out that the mistake that was Hop was related to the competition idol, Lorenz. Hop felt the suffocating thoughts swirl around in his head and he realized that there was no point in the gym challenge. He should just go home and maybe see if his pops would introduce him to the ways of competitions, maybe Hop could be worth something there.

Let Bede win. Hop decided, after all, if Hop has no chance, who would?

“Anyone actually,” Hop mumbled, it wasn’t like Hop was the person to beat, in fact, he was sure anyone could.

“I wanna go home,” Hop murmured, glancing up at the sky.

———————————————————-

Postwick was a good town. Hop trudged up the hill and towards his house. He spotted the house at the top of the hill now had a “SOLD” sign, as he watched the door open and a boy with ashy-colored hair stumbled out, turning and calling out over his shoulder. “I’ll be back soon!” He turned forward and started jogging in Hop's direction. As he got closer Hop noticed that he had pale green eyes.

“Hi,” Hop waved, catching the other guy's attention.

“Hello!” He smiled, “my name is Ashe, it’s nice to meet you!”

“I’m Hop!” Hop forced a smile. Ashe nodded his head and moved past him, leaving Hop to continue his walk.

He reached his house and raised his hand to knock on the door. As he did the door swung open and Hop found a Sudowoodo staring at him. “Hey,” he said.

“Sudowoodo,” Sudowoodo said back.

“Is that my SON!” Claude appeared and shoved his Sudowoodo out of the way.

“Hey, dad!” Hop grinned and stepped inside, almost immediately Claude pulled Hop into a huge hug that lifted him off the ground.

“You’re just in time, I know you probably didn’t come home for this but will you watch it with me?” Claude, who was still holding Hop, made his way into the living room where the TV was on and showing a competition. Hop laughed a little and nodded his head as best he could.

“Sure, dad,” Hop said. Claude let out a booming laugh and settled down on the couch still holding Hop. Sudowoodo had shut the door behind them and came into the room, Hop then realized that all of Claude’s Pokemon were sitting out, except for his Rillaboom. The Liepard, named Leicester, settled itself cozily in the corner but was close enough to be a part of the rest of them.

Hop was always in awe of his father's Pokemon, they just looked so strong and had been raised with love and care. Hop turned his attention to the TV and smiled when he saw Lorenz standing on stage with a bunch of other competitors.

Lorenz was wearing a purple suit with two “tails” that matched his hair, there was also a sprinkle of gold accents throughout. Of course, there was the Lorenz staple, a red rose, tucked into his breast pocket. His long purple hair was pulled to one side, where it was then braided into a waterfall braid. On the other side of his head, he had two small clips, one was a rose and the other was a small dragonish-looking wing. Hop had once asked his fathers about the hair clips, curious about why his papa would pick such ones. Lorenz and Claude had smiled and asked him if he believed in past lives. When Hop has said maybe Lorenz and Claude have told him that they picked the rose as something that was purely Lorenz but the wing had come from a discussion they had where Claude had mentioned that if he was born in a different place he would’ve loved to roam the skies on a Dragon/Wyvern, along with a bow; but Claude had said that part wasn’t necessary. To bring his attention back to the TV, Hop lightly slapped his cheeks and stared. Standing next to Lorenz were Salazzle, Espeon, and Roserade, Lorenz’s usual team for completions.

Claude smiled at his husband and Hop could practically feel the love they had for each other. As the other contestants were being introduced Claude turned to Hop. “Something’s on your mind,” he said. It wasn’t a question, Claude just knew.

Hop nodded, “yeah, but can we watch this first?” Hop hadn’t watched a competition in a while, so he was a little curious.

“Introducing our last competitor! He’s on a winning streak right now, but who knows what he has planned,” the announcer cried, his voice booming over the TV, “his name is... Lorenz von Riegan!” Once his name was called, Lorenz swept forward and his Roserade released a stream of flower petals that Espeon lifted so they fell around him. As the petals touched the floor Salazzle huffed and they burned up a little, showing no trace of what he just did. Lorenz took a deep bow before returning to his natural position.

As the competition began Hop was in awe of Lorenz’s ability, Hop had never seen Claude battle but Leon had said that if Claude really wanted to do the gym challenge to become champion, no one would stand a chance.

When the competition finished, Lorenz got first place, Claude turned to Hop, and Hop nearly started crying the second he smiled. “Now, why don’t you tell me what’s bothering you, Hop,” Claude put his hand on Hop’s head and ruffled his hair.

“Do you think I can drop out of the gym challenge?” The words fell out of Hop's mouth before he could stop them. Claude’s eyes twinkled knowingly as he stared at him.

“I do,” Claude said, nodding his head and closing his eyes.

“Th-“ Hop began

“But is that what you really want?”

“Huh?” Hop blinked.

“I asked you if that is what you really want,” Claude repeated, “I know that you’ve been wanting to do this for years, not even Lee telling you no couldn't stop you.”

“Maybe I had my eyes opened,” Hop argued.

“Maybe you did,” Claude agreed, nodding his head, “although, did you open them yourself, or did someone else open them for you?”

“W-what are you talking about?” Hop asked.

“Hop, my son, I need you to understand something,” Claude said, pulling on Hop’s arm so the teen was wrapped in Claude’s arms as they sat on the couch, Claude waved his hand so his Quagsire could turn off the TV which was now playing interviews with the losing competitors.

“Understand what, dad?” Hop murmured, and even though his words were muffled Claude seemed to hear him clearly.

“You need to understand that if you’ve come to a realization, who and what gave you the realization? If it came from within you, started by you, thought through by you, and the only help you got from others was that they would stand by you, then you were the one who came to a realization. Because it all started with you and it ended with you, too. However, if someone else gave you the idea, and they were the ones who forced you to come to a realization, you can’t say that you came to a realization, can you?” Claude’s words were spoken in such a soft tone that when he finished, Hop felt tears springing into his eyes and he didn’t say anything except push himself further into Claude’s arms and let the tears fall.

Claude said nothing but let Hop cry.

Claude smiled at him, for he was sure that Hop had realized what was running through his head.

Claude pressed a kiss to the top of Hop’s head and pulled the boy closer and leaned back.

Soon, he was close to falling asleep and by the soft snores that came from the boy laying on his chest, Hop already had.

When Hop woke up he was fully wrapped in a blanket, like a blanket burrito, and there was a wonderful smell coming from the kitchen. Hop unraveled himself from the blanket and made his way into the kitchen and spotted Claude cooking something.

“My son has woken up!” Claude cried when he spotted Hop standing in the kitchen. Hop laughed and nodded his head.

“I’m here,” he agreed, moving to go sit at the table and wait for Claude to be done. A plate was set down in front of him and Hop wasted no time in digging in, the food probably the best thing he had ever tasted in a while. Claude was always good at cooking. Lorenz on the other hand? Let’s make sure he stays to baking.

“Want to talk a little more?” Claude said; he wasn’t looking at Hop. Hop decided it was because he couldn’t face him.

As if Claude heard him, he snapped his head around and held his gaze.

“Sure,” Hop agreed.

“I’ll always believe in you, Hop,” Claude said, grabbing Hop's hand, “I know that you can do whatever you put your mind to. Hop, my son, I know you can win,” Claude smiled, it was warm.

So warm.

Hop would’ve cried again if he had the tears.

“I lost a battle,” Hop began, he looked up to Claude’s gaze and noted how nothing changed, nothing shifted. “It was against this kid named Bede. He was recommended for the gym challenged by Chairman Rose, did you know that?” Hop stumbled through his words.

“I didn’t know that,” Claude nodded, there wasn’t a shift in his eyes or face, he just kept staring at Hop, looking at him. Holding his gaze with nothing but love in his eyes as he listened to what he was saying.

“I lost against him and he said that I wouldn’t stand a chance against Lee and that I had no shot at winning,” Hop admitted, he wanted to tear his gaze away, and focus on something that was in the distance.

But he couldn’t.

“He’s a terrible person,” Claude said, raising his coffee cup to his lips, Hop hadn’t noticed that.

“He was strong, though,” Hop said.

“Doesn’t change much,” Claude nodded, “kid seems like a dick. Being strong doesn’t change your personality. If anything, it makes it worse.”

“Really?” Hop questioned.

“Look, Hop, if you want to drop out of the gym challenge, I’ll let you,” Claude said, “but I want you to look inside yourself and make sure that’s what you want to do,” Claude stood and moved so he was sitting next to him and pulled him into a hug.

“I don’t think I want to drop out,” Hop mumbled, “I want to beat Leon.”

“That means you have to train a little more, trust in your Pokemon, because they will always be there,” Claude nodded his head and released Hop. “I’ll take you to the train station, does that work? Where were you?”

“I was in Stow-on-Side,” Hop said.

“Well, I don’t have a flying type with me but I can take you to the train station. Believe in yourself, Hop,” Claude smiled and stood, holding out his hand. Hop took it and Claude pulled him into the foyer.

“I’ll go get everything,” Hop said and darted off into the living room. Claude watched with a smile on his face.

“Let’s go!” Claude said, opening the door as Hop came bounding back in. “Lorenz is coming home soon, by the way.”

“He is? Papa is coming home?” Hop grinned.

“Yeah,” Claude nodded and grabbed Hop's hand and the two began the walk to the train station.

When they reached it, Hop turned to face Claude and smiled warmly. “Thanks, dad,” he said.

“Of course, Hop, I love you,” Claude smiled and pressed a kiss onto Hop's forehead.

“I love you too!” Hope grinned and they hugged one more time.

Claude watched as the train holding Hop slowly moved away, he smiled and touched his forehead slightly before reaching into his pocket and pulling out his phone. “Hilda? Yeah, it’s me, can you do something for me?”

———————————————————-

Hop laughed and he jumped into the air as he held onto the gym badge he had just gotten, he was making his way to the Pokemon center before the ground started rumbling. Hop’s head snapped in the direction he thought it was coming from. His feet were moving before he had a chance to stop them and he raced toward the area where the mural was.

“Hop!” Cried Sonya when she saw him, Hop picking up his speed so he could reach the redhead faster. “Somethings happening at the mural!” She shouted.

“Let’s go!” Hop bounded past her as he ran towards the stairs and jumped up them, skipping steps until he reached the top. Bede stood there and next to him was a Copperjah that didn’t look like Bede’s Pokemon.

Bede must’ve heard the footsteps because he spun around and fixed Hop with a look. Hop’s breath caught in his throat when he saw him.

Bede looked like a mess.

Even though it couldn’t have been more than a few days since Hop had last seen him; Hop knew that he hadn’t slept at all. The eyebags were huge (they were so big they probably could’ve carried all of Lorenz’s suitcases, Hop thought, in an attempt to bring some light to the situation) and his eyes seemed too wide. Hop stared at him for a second longer and that’s when he realized that Bede was shaking where he was standing.

“Oh, it’s you,” Bede said, “how nice of you to come watch me! I’m doing this for the Chairman-he NEEDS Wishing Stars, however, so I’m going to need you TO LEAVE!” He shouted.

“Bede-,” Hop began.

“NO! I can beat you, you’re easy to beat, you-you-you’re,” Bede took a deep breath, “fight me.” His words weren't questions.

Hop had no chance, he hadn’t gone and healed his Pokémon after the battle with Allister so he knew it would be even harder to win. As Hop hesitated Bede seemed to grow more agitated. His eyes were darting around and his breathing got a little more labored.

Hop was panicking.

“Come on, Hop,” Sonia spoke from next to him, causing Hop to turn her way with a start. He hadn’t noticed her before. Hop was stuck in his head and thinking when he heard the clicking of heels.

“Not today, dickwad,” a familiar voice echoed. “Your battle is with me.”

Hilda Goneril.

With pink hair and an outfit that was ready to walk down a fashion runway, she stood there and glared. She took a few steps forward and he stared at her light pink ankle-high heeled boots (The family had gotten them together to give to her, Lorenz jokingly suggested a rose instead).

Bede stared at the newcomer and nodded quickly. “Fine then.”

“Oh, goodie!” Hilda laughed, “I even brought something for you!” Bede sent out his Duosion and Hilda only smiled as she struck a pose and released her Clefable. Bede seemed to smirk at the sight of her Pokémon, after all, she didn’t have an advantage. Hilda hummed and put her pointer finger on her lower lip. “Hmm... seems like I don’t have an advantage. This is certainly a small issue! Hehe!” Hilda giggled and waved her hand. “Night slash! Hehe!”

Bede’s eyes narrowed and Hop could only watch the way Hilda battled Bede. It looked like Hilda was lost. She kept returning and sending out her Pokémon. Her Aromatisse made an appearance, as well as her Alcrimie and Sylveon. Bede looked baffled as he watched her laugh and prance around. Somehow, much to Bede's chagrin, she had managed to knock out his Duosion and get his Gothorita down to about half health. Laughing again, Hilda returned her Sylveon and released her Togekiss. She was rocking back and forth as she watched the battle. Being slightly giggly she ordered her Pokémon to strike with Pluck. Gothorita stumbled but didn’t faint yet. Bede’s eyes narrowed.

“You’re just like Hop!” He snarled, “worthless. What are you even doing??” Through his cold words, Hop could pick up on the distress and strain that seemed to be holding him in place. It seemed like Bede was doing something in order to prove his worth, even if he had none. Hilda’s lip curled a little as she stared at him.

“Come on back, Togekiss,” she ordered, Bede stared at her and Hop could see the beginning of tears in his eyes. “Tyranitar!”

Gothorita, who was already weak, fell.

Hattrem and Ponyta never stood a chance.

Bede returned his Ponyta with wide eyes and the shaking of his body got bigger. “No.” Was the only thing that slid past his lips. “I was recommended by the Chairman! He trusts me! I’m doing this for the Chairman! I was the strongest! I-I-I should’ve been able to win! I-“

“That’s enough, Bede,” Chairman Rose made an appearance. He stared at Bede with a look of disappointment and something else in his gaze.

Hop could only stare as it all unfolded in front of him.

Bede was going to be kicked out of the gym challenge? Wasn’t that a good thing? Hop could’ve had a chance!

But then Hop thought about Bede’s face.

No, Hop decided, he wasn’t going to be glad Bede was forced out of the gym challenge, he wasn’t going to stoop to his level.

Hop watched as he was led away, watching as Hilda raced up to him and pushed a bag into his hands before turning and making her way back to Hop.

“What was in the bag?” He asked.

“Brownies, Claude told me to give them to him,” Hilda nodded.

“He told you to give them to him?” Hop tried to sound anything but hurt.

“Yeah, he put a small dosage of stomach poisoning in them, he should find the need to vomit once or twice, nothing else,” Hilda shrugged, linking her fingers together and stretching them above her head as she rocked back onto her heels.

“I’m sorry, you did what?” Hop blinked.

“Nothing to worry about,” Hilda nodded, “now come on, Marianne is waiting.”

“Wait!” Called Sonya, she was staring at the mural, which cracked and began to fall.

Hop was still reeling from what he had just learned about the legend and he silently thanked Bede. He followed after Hilda as she made her way down the steps and towards a familiar blue-haired woman. Marianne was holding her Cubchoo in her arms, while her Flygon held onto her shoulder from behind. Her Vaporeon found herself uncoiling from around her legs and trotting up to Hilda, who smiled and released Sylveon. The two eeveelutions pushed their heads into each other and let out small cries.

“Aww, look, Marianne!” Hilda gushed, “doesn’t this look familiar?” She winked.

“I’m not sure what you mean,” Marianne murmured.

“They act just like Claude's and Lorenz’s do!” Hilda whined.

“If you say so,” Marianne hummed, her Rapidash trotted up to her with a small bag in its mouth. Marianne took it with a soft smile and turned back to Hop and Hilda. “Claude made brownies.”

———————————————————-

Hop made his way out of the Hammerlocke gym, grinning widely as he stood in front of the gym. Standing before him was Raphael with Ignatz close by his side.

“Hey there kid,” Raphael laughed and waved his hand.

“Hello,” Ignatz said politely.

“We watched the match, you did really well,” Raphael said.

“I think that Uncle Ignatz could give him a run for his money, maybe even take the title,” Hop admitted, “maybe because he does weather while you go for straight power...” Hop trailed off.

“Could be,” Ignatz nodded, pushing his glasses up his nose, “happy you trained with me now?” Ignatz smiled.

“I always thought it was important,” Hop smiled. Ignatz smiled and Raphael clapped him on the shoulder. The two adults laughed as Hop nearly stumbled to the ground.

“Oh? You think I could be defeated?” Raihan appeared behind the trio and caused Hop to jump in surprise.

“Well,” Raphael said, “Hop just did.”

“That he did,” Raihan agreed, “it was certainly a good battle.”

“Want to go out to eat? Ignatz here can make a great curry!” Raphael’s booming laughter filled the street and Ignatz smiled up at him and shook his head.

“I have a feeling that Hop wants to make it to Wyndon as soon as he can, we can all go out together after the tournament,” he smiled, sticking his hand into his pocket. Hop flushed at his words but nodded a little bit.

“I would like that a lot,” Hop admitted and flashed a smile at Ignatz. “I might be able to catch the last train if I head out now,” he said.

“You really are their son,” Raphael snorted, “during their gym challenge Claude left as soon as he beat the last gym leader and when the tournament came to a close Claude wiped the floor with everyone,” he laughed.

“Dad became Champion?” Hop blinked, tilting his head to the side.

“Just for a little, he soon forfeited his title so he could go chase after Lorenz who was in Sinnoh doing his competition thing,” Ignatz supplied, “people were super shocked by it but I’m surprised it took him as long as it did.”

“Oh, totally,” Raphael snorted, “when he found Lorenz, apparently he had a glow up. Lorenz used to have the most hideous hair,” he said.

“I know, for some reason, dad leaves a glamor shot with it up,” Hop mumbled. “Papa takes it down quite often, I’m not sure how sad it is to have so many of that one photo,” he put a hand on his chin.

“No way, I can’t believe that,” Raphael shook his head.

“No, no, I can most definitely believe that, it’s Claude after all,” Ignatz sighed, “I’m just curious about what Lorenz does to get him back.”

Hop thought for a moment, “if I’m right, I think papa uses his Espeon and puts everything Claude usually uses super high up somewhere and then refuses to help him,” he pondered. Ignatz and Raphael burst out laughing and shook their heads.

“You have the craziest home life,” Raihan observed. Hop laughed and pulled his water bottle out of his bag and started to drink.

“Aren’t you dating Leon?” Ignatz raised an eyebrow.

Hop spits the water he was drinking out.

“Maybe,” Raihan shrugged his shoulders, “better get going Hop. The train’s leaving soon,” he nudged Hop into the train station direction.

“This conversation is nowhere near over,” Hop called over his shoulder as he started to jog away.

———————————————————–

Hop stood in the lights of all the other people and gym leaders. He couldn’t believe it, he had gotten so far. Marnie had been the hardest rival he had to face but he had pulled through and now had a shot to take Leon down.

He glanced around him at all the other gym leaders who were also trying for the same thing. He knew it wasn’t going to be easy but he also knew that he believed he could win.

Hop was certain now.

He was going to beat Leon.

As he turned back to enter the waiting room there was a familiar voice behind him. “Wait!”

Hop turned and froze when he saw Bede making his way over to him. His eyes seemed clearer and he looked like he had fallen asleep since the last time Hop had seen him. He adjusted the pink and teal shirt he was wearing before running his hand through his hair.

“I want to have a final battle with you,” he said. “I want to prove that I’m strong. Oleana was the one who forced me to get those Wishing Stars, and yet, the Chairmen disowned me,” his voice was quiet and Hop stared at him.

“I’ll accept,” Hop said, even though the announcer was saying other things.

“If I lose, I’ll stop being a Pokémon trainer,” Bede said, holding out his hands.

“Fine,” Hop said, staring back at him. There was no hostile look in his eyes, no look that would draw out the hatred Bede must’ve felt towards Hop, instead he looked calm.

“The Champion himself has accepted this challenge!” The announcer cried.

Why? It wasn’t Leon’s battle.

It was his.

And he was going to win.

They walked to their places and both looked at each other. “One last battle,” Bede said. “Mawile!”

“Rillaboom!” Hop clutched onto his bag before narrowing his eyes and taking a deep breath.

“Play rough!” Bede ordered, flinging his hand out. Mawile lunged off the ground and threw herself at Rillaboom.

“Snarl!” Hop retaliated. Mawile stumbled back and Rillaboom suddenly snarled, dark energy shooting out at Mawile.

“Once again!” Bede called, and his Mawile sprung forward, she looked ready to go.

“Rillaboom-!” Hop cried. Rillaboom jumped to the side and sent Hop a small nod. “Drum Beating!” He ordered.

“No!” Bede cried, watching as Mawile fell to the ground and he had to return her. “Gardevoir!”

“Rillaboom, back,” Hop returned his Rillaboom and released his Corviknight.

“Dazzling Gleam!” Bede ordered, Gardevoir spread her arms out and small blasts of energy went flying at Coviknight.

“Steel Wing!” Hop countered and watched as Corviknight extended out his wings and spotted the silvery sheen that covered the wing as he flew at Gardevoir. Bede looked furious at him but Hop couldn’t care less.

Hop was going to win this battle.

“Dazzling Gleam, again, Gardevoir!” Bede growled out and his Gardevoir did what was ordered.

“Come on, again Corviknight!” Hop clenched his fists. Coviknight lunged once more and Gardevoir stumbled to the ground.

“Why are you beating me??” Bede cried out, the distress in his voice high. “Rapidash!”

“Steel Wing,” Hop ordered.

“Physic!” Bede cried. Corviknight took the hit full force and nearly fell out of the sky.

“Come on! Hold it together for one more Steel Wing!” Hop begged.

“Finish it!” Both Pokémon raced at each other and landed their attacks. When the dust cleared both Pokémon were down.

“Tsk. What’s with that calm expression? Think you’re going to win?”

“Not really,” Hop admitted.

“Hatterene!”

“Rillaboom!” Hop glanced down at his bracelet and he clenched his fists.

“We’ll show you a truly great pink. It’s time for my dear Hatterene to Gigantamax!” Bede returned his Hatterene and the Pokéball enlarged. He threw it over his shoulder and Gigantamax Hatterene appeared. Hop took a deep breath and called his Rillaboom back.

Hop patted the top of the big Pokéballand tossed it behind him. “Max Starfall!” Bede ordered, his voice loud to be heard over the crowd.

“Max Darkness!” Hop ordered his Dynamax Rillaboom. Bede’s Hatterene hit first and sent a powerful stream of stars towards Rillaboom. Hop held his breath and Rillaboom retaliated with his Max Darkness. Hatterene seemed to be low on health.

“No!” Bede cried, “I’m strong! I’m stronger than this! Hatterene! Max Starfall!”

“Rillaboom! Max Darkness!” Hop gasped, he believed in himself. He could win.

Hatterene fell and Bede returned the Pokémon to his Pokéball. “Good battle,” he clenched his fists close to his chest. “At least everyone can see how good fairy types are. Well, as I said, I’ll retire from being a trainer.”

“No,” Hop shook his head, surprising himself.

“No?” Bede sounded confused.

“You’re a great trainer, why would you throw it all away because of one battle?” Hop walked forward and held his hand out. “I think you’re a strong trainer.”

Bede blinked before walking up to him and grabbing his hand, “maybe you’re right...” he looked up at the crowd who were all yelling their praises and Bede felt a small smile etch itself onto his lips. “Good luck with the rest of your challenge,” he said, shaking his hand and turning the other way.

———————————————————–

Hop took a deep breath as he made his way through the tunnel to make it to the stage, for the second time. He was glad that Chairmen Rose had been able to be stopped, but that was then and this was now. This was it.

The final battle.

Hop was going to win.

He stood in the middle of the field and watched as Leon made his way to meet him. “If it isn’t my little bro!” Leon laughed, “I’m proud of you for making it here, but don’t think I’m going to give up my title so easily!” Leon laughed.

“Well, Lee,” Hop grinned, “I wouldn’t want you to!”

“Let’s make this a battle they’ll be talking about for ages!” Leon put his hand out.

“Let’s do it!” Hop grabbed his brother's hand and they shook hands. As they walked back to their places Leon called over.

“We’re gonna have a champion time!” He struck his pose and Hop felt a grin coming onto his face.

“You know it, Lee,” he said. They both took a deep breath and started their pre-battle rituals. They both rubbed their wrists and jumped in place for a second before bringing up their hands and slapping their cheeks. Leon grabbed his cape and threw it off, pulling out a Pokéball as he did.

“Aegislash!"

“Dubwool!”

“Sacred sword!” Leon ordered, “little bro, super effective attacks are a good way to go!”

“Cotton guard!” Hop ordered. Dubwool covered itself with cotton so the sacred sword damage was less.

“They’re still super effective!” Leon laughed, “but don’t get caught up in them! Once more!”

“Zen Headbutt!” Hop cried. The two exchanged blows like this a few more times until the Zen Headbutt landed a critical hit.

“Nice one, Hop! Think about your next move!” Leon laughed, returning his Aegislash. “Haxorus!”

“Body Slam!” Hop cried first.

“Dragon Dance!”

“Again, Dubwool!” Hop was clenching his fists now as he watched the battle.

“Dragon Claw!” Haxorus slashed outward and Dubwool collapsed.

“Snorlax! Heavy Slam!” Hop reminded himself to breathe as he watched the battle in front of him.

“Dragon pulse!” Leon ordered but blinked when Haxorus lurched forward and then stopped. Telltale small streaks of yellow flash up his body, Heavy Slam had paralyzed him. Hop’s face lit up at the chance and he shouted at Snorlax.

“Hammer Arm,” Snorlax swung its fist and slammed it into Haxorus who went flying back. “Once more!”

“You’ve grown up, little bro!” Leon laughed as he returned his Haxorus. “But you won’t get much farther. Seismitoad!”

“Snorlax, back!” Hop curled his fingers around the Pokéball and then released his Rillaboom.

“Muddy Water,” Leon waved his hand.

“Drum beating!” Hop’s face glowed when Seismitoad went down with that one hit.

“You know when to make a super effective attack count, Hop!” Leon laughed. “Cinderace!”

“High Horsepower!” Hop bounced on the balls of his feet and he grinned.

“Pyro Ball,” Leon waved his hand, “I’ve got you here!”

“Rillaboom!” Hop cried, the Pokémon had managed to hold on. “Come back!” He returned his Rillaboom and grabbed another pokeball. “Snorlax!”

Leon was watching his brother with a proud grin. He was so proud of how far he had come and couldn’t wait to tell him. Leon watched as his Snorlax appeared before him, swinging his arm quickly and causing it to slam into Cinderace. “Counter!”

“Snorlax!” Hop cried out, watching as the Pokémon let out a loud cry before falling as well. “You did well,” he pulled back the Snorlax before throwing out his next Pokémon, “Corviknight! Drill peck!” Cinderace jumped away from the attack but didn’t count on Coviknight swooping in again and delivering the blow. Cinderace fell to the ground and Leon called it back.

“You’re doing so well, Hop,” Leon grinned, “but I’m not letting you get any further! Dragapault!”

“I’m gonna beat you, Lee!” Hop played with the edge of his glove and pointed forward. “Steel wing!” Dragapault flew back a little before shaking its head and steadying itself.

“Dragon darts!” The small dragons on top of Dragapaults head were launched at Corviknight. Corviknight dodged one only for the other to hit.

“Come on, Corviknight! Steel wing!” Hop ran his fingers through his hair and took a deep breath as Corviknight flew at the Dragapault.

“Dragon pulse!” Leon didn’t seem too concerned that he was on his second to last pokemon, instead, he looked excited.

Attacks were exchanged until both Corviknight and Dragapault were knocked down. Leon pulled out his Charizard’s pokeball and looked at Hop.

“This was an exciting battle, but I’m not letting you beat me! Charizard!” Leon cried.

“I will win, Lee!” Hop said determinedly, “Pincurchin!” He released the electric type and stared at the bracelet that was on his wrist.

“You’ve done well to get me here,” Leon said, “but this is as far as you’ll go, you won’t beat Charizard! Gigantamax go!” Leon held the big Pokeball in his hand and he grinned as he threw it behind him.

“Come on, Pincurchin,” Hop murmured and did the same.

“Max Flare!” Leon laughed.

“Max Thunder!” Hop ordered. Charizard powered up and launched a flaming hot attack and Hop brought his hand up for a second. Pincurchin was holding on and summoned waves of electricity that it threw at the Charizard.

“Max Flare again!�� Leon ordered.

“Come on, come on, come on! Pincurchin Max Thunder!” Hop was holding his hands close to his chest. Pincurchin launched its attack and it was enough, Charizard began to shrink and fall to the ground. Leon turned and returned his Pokémon.

Hop stared.

“Pincurchin shrunk back to normal size and jumped into the air along with Hop.

“I won!” He laughed. “I really won!”

“I’m proud, Hop,” Leon said, walking towards the middle of the field. “I don’t think I can express how proud I am of you,” he smiled, and put his hand on Hop’s head and began to mess up his hair. “That was an amazing battle, thank you, Hop.”

Hop had no clue what was going on. He had beaten Leon and then there were so many people talking to him, all saying different things.

Hop managed to get away from everyone and found himself staring at his family. “Great job out there, Hop,” Ignatz said, his smile warm.

“That was a great battle, kiddo,” Leonie patted him on the back.

“That was certainly a great battle! I have no idea how you could do all that,” Hilda said, rocking back and forth on her heels.

“It was very cool,” Marianne smiled.

“That was totally amazing!” Raphael said, his laughter booming off the walls.

“You definitely deserve the title of Champion,” Lysithea smiled and ran her fingers through her hair.

“Oh, is that my son?” A voice Hop hadn’t heard in a while spoke from behind him.

“Papa!” Hop cried, spinning around and jumping into his arms. Lorenz laughed and spun around. Claude appeared and wrapped both of them in a hug.

“I’m so proud of you, you did absolutely amazing!” Lorenz sang and waved his hand as he pulled Hop further into his arms and out of Claude’s. “It was an amazing battle,” Lorenz smiled widely.

“Are you glad you didn’t drop out, Hop?” Claude asked.

“Yes,” Hop nodded, “I am, and I understand what you meant.”

“I’m glad, I love you, Hop,” Claude put his hand on Hop’s shoulder.

“I love you too,” Hop smiled.

“Don’t leave me out of this!” Lorenz laughed, pressing a kiss to Hop and Claude’s cheek.

Hop was proud.

Hop was happy.

Hop won.

#Hop swsh #pokemon swsh #pokemon sword and shield #fire emblem three houses #lorenz hellman gloucester #claude von reigen #Fe3h claude x lorenz #fire emblem x pokemon #pokemon #kodzues spaceship #astronomers work. the way to victory

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