Chapter 243: Star-Up, Ogerpon · ★★! Water-Dark Hybrid Scroll!
As Xia Chi affectionately cuddled his Pokémon, Brawly walked over from the battlefield.
The cheerful, sunny young man who loved surfing wore a slightly helpless expression.
An ordinary Gym Challenge would have been one thing.
But the three Pokémon Brawly had sent out-Mienshao, Breloom, and Scrafty-were all members of his main team.
And the result? 3-0!
What was more, his opponent's trainer had not even been present.
The rather embarrassing defeat had left the Gym Leader struggling to save face.
Still, admiration mingled with intense interest dominated his expression.
Trainers who specialized in Fighting types tended to be straightforward.
Whether on the path of a trainer or that of martial arts, only those who could face defeat honestly could improve.
Then again, as Mustard's personal disciple, Xia Chi could now more or less count himself among the "martial arts community."
So he felt quite favorably toward the Fighting-type Gym Leader before him.
"Mr. Xia Chi, I've heard so much about you!"
Brawly said heartily, "They performed at that level without even having their trainer direct them. Your Pokémon training methods are truly incredible!"
Xia Chi smiled and shook Brawly's hand firmly, remaining modest. "You're too kind, Gym Leader Brawly. The Pokémon deserve the credit. They really outdid themselves today. As for this... uh, unexpected encounter."
He glanced helplessly at Flutter Mane, who was still spinning around smugly. "It was completely unplanned. Sorry for the trouble."
Brawly laughed. "It's the unexpected that shows what you're really made of! Still..."
He shifted gears, fierce fighting spirit blazing in his eyes. "As exciting as it was to watch your Pokémon battle independently, I'd rather experience their full strength with you personally commanding them!"
"What do you say? How about another match tomorrow?"
Currently desperate