Dragon Trial (Triple Chapter)

"Wow, Xia Yan, I didn't expect you to be this strong."

Bruno scratched his head and recalled the Machamp lying on the ground.

After Togekiss had controlled it with the first Air Slash, breaking free afterward had become extremely difficult.

It depended not only on each Pokémon's willpower, but also on luck.

And clearly, luck was on Togekiss's side most of the time.

Besides, as a Flying-type Pokémon, it naturally had a type advantage over Fighting-types. After taking a Brave Bird, Machamp simply could not hold out until its Flinch state ended.

"Mr. Bruno is very strong too," Xia Yan said.

That was not flattery.

Bruno really was strong.

This Machamp was probably not even his strongest one.

Being a candidate for the Elite Four at least meant Bruno already possessed four or more Elite Four-level Pokémon.

As one of his main Pokémon, Machamp was certainly Elite Four-level as well.

The only reason Xia Yan had been able to beat him was because Bruno had not been aiming for any prize or ranking.

"These are yours."

As he spoke, Bruno stuffed a large handful of pendants into Xia Yan's arms.

Then, from who knew where, he pulled out another Rage Candy Bar and shoved it into his mouth.

"I'm taking Machamp to the Pokémon Center. I won't be joining the rest of the festival."

He waved his hand.

Then he strode off toward the Pokémon Center with remarkable swagger.

"Nimi?" Victini blinked twice, then jolted. "Nimi!!"

Only then did it suddenly realize something.

They had won without it boosting Togekiss?

More importantly—

It had not seen the aura of victory around Xia Yan weaken, nor had it seen any change in the sun-like aura of victory around Bruno.

The battle had ended in the time it took it to space