Fire of Belief

Through the Telepathy bridge built by Kirlia, the feelings of all Xinhai's partners—their fear, encouragement, and burning support—were conveyed to one another without reservation.

Feebas, who had been trembling in the pool, felt Combusken's almost tear-inducing persistence; Zigzagoon, protected by Psychic power, felt that unyielding will; Eevee, Mightyena, Sandile... The fear born in their hearts from the Elite-level pressure was diluted and driven away by the shared belief of their companions through this close connection.

No longer afraid, they transformed their purest, most fervent emotions into silent cries, pouring them along the bridge of their minds toward the red figure enduring that terrifying pressure!

This power was not tangible energy, yet it was more vast and warm than any energy!

Like a bonfire lit on the coldest winter night, it illuminated Combusken's consciousness, which had nearly been swallowed by darkness, and warmed every limb and bone that had gone cold beneath the extreme pressure!

"Combusken...!"

Combusken let out a low cry mixed with pain and emotion.

Beside it, Brawly's Combusken was the first to roar. The Fire of Fighting Spirit on its body blazed fiercely, helping it resist the pressure as its back gradually straightened.

Gym Leader Takeda nodded slightly at the sight.

As for Xinhai's Combusken, feeling the belief gathered from its companions, it forced out a faint smile. Its claws pressed against the ground and suddenly exerted force, slowly raising its body from its bent position!

Its movements were slower and more arduous than Brawly's Combusken's. At this moment, Combusken seemed able to hear the wails of every inch of muscle and every bone.

Sensing the connection brought by the Telepathy Ability, a barely perceptible flicker passed through Scrafty and Hitmontop's eyes, but neither of them moved to interrupt it.

Their purpose here was to apply pressure and