LILYCOVE CITY — In a startling announcement at The Wintertide Open, Talia Bosch has stepped down from her position as Hoenn champion. The decision comes one month after the Rocket invasion of Slateport City, leading many to criticize the former champion for relinquishing her duties. Although Bosch has vacated the position to take care of her ailing father, Hoenn citizens have decried her departure as cowardly and irresponsible during a time of crisis.

Nevertheless, The Wintertide Open's victor, @max , could not be overshadowed. His charming performances and pokémon led him to a decisive win over the other coordinators, with many lauding his artistry as one of the best the region has ever seen. Despite the shadows looming over the region's empty seat, it seems the public has heralded him as a champion of culture.

Armada's victory speech rings poignantly for the region: "It is so important that we hold on to [our humanity]. Even as we find ourselves divided by violence and conflict, we must never forget our humanity."

Yet, despite his encouraging words, Hoenn still lacks a reigning champion and in the vacuum of power, The League has not yet declared a statement for fulfilling the seat. Such announcements are presumably delayed due to Commissioner dahlia goode 's MIA status.