Olivine Town.
Near the All-Purpose Arena,
only the sounds of bodies colliding and reporter Yuka's commentary remained.
The spectators watched with bated breath.
Lorelei watched intently. "Machamp has an overwhelming advantage in strength, but Lucario has the edge in technique and reflexes."
Lance sighed. "But now it's come down to whose will gives out first."
As time passed, the side effects of Close Combat began to show, and both Pokémon's defenses plummeted.
Their wounds multiplied, their breathing grew heavier, and their movements began to slow, but they still poured every ounce of strength into each collision!
Machamp's four arms were covered in wounds, and swelling had even forced one eye nearly shut.
At this point, their Trainers no longer needed to give commands.
Li Wei and Bruno called out, "Go!"
"Luca!"
"Rooar!"
The two Pokémon let out their final roars, wringing out every last bit of strength in their bodies for one final blow!
They abandoned all dodging and defense, pouring their last reserves of will and strength into the next-and final-collision of Close Combat!
BOOOOM-
A crash far louder than any of their previous collisions rang out. The terrifying shock wave sent a blast of wind sweeping over even the spectators in the front row!
As the dust slowly settled...
Both figures had fallen into the deep pit.
Machamp lay facedown, all four arms sprawled limply, eyes spiraling. Machamp was completely unable to battle.
Every last ounce of strength had been spent.
Mega Lucario knelt on one knee, barely keeping from collapsing completely with one hand braced against the ground.
The light surrounding Lucario rapidly faded as the Mega form dissolved, leaving an ordinary Lucario behind. Clearly, Lucario had reached the limit as well.
But Lucario was still clinging to consciousness!
After checking carefully, the referee decisively waved the