On TV, the daughter of Gym Leader Norman is entering Contests to secure another Ribbon for Ever Grande Conference. In the newspaper, Ash Ketchum from Pallet Town has just won the Orange League championship. On Fred's phone, the news app is pushing trailers for Champion Diantha's latest film.
The streets are plastered with posters—Sabrina, the psychic pop idol, is about to begin her Kalos tour.
People hurry past, going to work or traveling in pairs. Technology has made life easier, brighter, more connected.
"This world really is a little different," Fred muttered." But that's not a bad thing. As long as the changes don't cause us any trouble."
He glanced at the ghostly green figure lounging on his shoulder and gave a half-smile.
" Today, standing before us is the reigning World Champion, Kalos League Champion, and Honorary Presidentof the Breeders Association—Mr. Freddy Anderson! "
Under the spotlight, Fred shook his head with a helpless smile and sighed:
"I'm not trying to be humble. I really am just a guy who wanted a quiet life. So… how'd we end up here?"
He looked out over the cameras, the cheering crowd, the strange and familiar world.
"Then again, with everything else already this weird… what's one more anomaly?"