The Gym Leader lived up to his name. He was just like a bloodthirsty lion, and merely standing there was enough to make Ye Qing tremble inwardly.
Machamp clenched his front two hands into fists and hooked his rear two into claws, his eyes fixed on the scrawny monkey before him.
Infernape spat out an ember and took a fighting stance, signaling for him to bring it on.
"I'm putting a bet on Machamp."
"I'm in."
"I'm betting on Infernape."
"Girl, are you out of your mind? How could a little thing like Infernape beat Machamp?"
The spectators argued noisily, but most favored Machamp.
Ye Qing clenched his fists and prayed that Infernape would gain the upper hand. Otherwise, whether he could withstand even one punch from that man was another question.
Lion removed the bloodstained bandages from his hands and slowly wrapped on fresh ones.
"A Fighting-type Gym tests the courage and trust between Trainers and their Pokémon."
Clang-
The gong rang out across the entire Battle Ring. The referee raised his flag and shouted, "Both Pokémon will battle freely. Trainers may not issue commands. The match begins now!"
"Champ."
Machamp gave Infernape a sinister grin. Lightning flashed around all four of his fists as he advanced on Infernape.
The referee roared into his microphone, "There it is! Machamp's signature technique again! Let's see how Infernape responds!"
Facing the steadily approaching Machamp, Infernape suddenly vanished from the Battle Ring.
The referee cried out in shock, "What? Infernape has disappeared!"
The spectators were also taken aback, unable to understand how Infernape could be so fast.
"Fake Out?"
Lion folded his arms and frowned slightly. With his experience, he naturally recognized the move.
Smack!
Infernape appeared beside Machamp and slapped him across the face. Immediately afterward, a Mach Punch whistled through