Reactions from All Sides

As the smoke and dust in the pool slowly dispersed, the two Pokémon at the bottom were revealed. Electivire had smashed through the pool's steel walls, and the explosion had blown apart the surrounding steel as well.

Drip, drip—

However, as Rhydon got to its feet, its Rock Armor flaked off in showers. Its body was still badly charred, but judging by its condition, its injuries were not too severe. It only managed to rise halfway before collapsing again.

"Don't push yourself, Rhydon." Yu Hai had Pelipper carry him down, gently soothing Rhydon before recalling it with a Poké Ball.

In Rhydon's condition, it definitely needed treatment at the Pokémon Center. Luckily, all four limbs could still move, which proved the injuries were not too serious.

Humans and Pokémon reacted similarly when faced with danger. They both used their hands to protect their bodies, so their hands were usually injured first. As long as the hands could still move, the problem was not too severe. Rhydon's Rock Armor and tough outer layer had also blocked much of the damage.

Iron Hānhān really was stubborn. It had ended up in such a miserable state this time, but Yu Hai wondered whether it would finally lower its pride and learn Protect.

On the other side, Erlang also recalled Electivire and walked over to him.

"You're as strong as ever. Even my ace, Electivire, lost," Erlang said with a smile, extending his hand without a trace of resentment over his defeat.

"You weren't bad either. Rhydon was seriously injured, so it probably won't be able to compete in the upcoming matches." Yu Hai's tone shifted from happiness to a sigh, and Erlang caught it perfectly.

As for Rhydon's serious injuries?

That was simply tact. He could not exactly mock the other guy for