Chapter 96: Chapter 96: Machamp's Breakthrough
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As Ron strolled through the forest, Machamp calmly observed his surroundings, a demeanor that earned Ron's approval.
With just one more victory against a Pokémon, Machamp could advance from the low Elite rank to mid-Elite rank. For most trainers, this would likely cause some tension or urgency. However, under Ron's training, Machamp managed to maintain his composure.
Having dealt with his pursuers, Ron was now on his fifth day in the forest. Over this time, his Persian had reached level 38 and learned a new move, Slash.
Beyond Machamp and Persian, Ron had plans for his other Pokémon, like Bellossom, to level up after Machamp's breakthrough, intending to do so on the way out of the forest.
As if testing Machamp's patience, Ron had spent half an hour searching without encountering another Elite-ranked Pokémon since leaving the previous territory. Just as Ron was about to rest, Persian, tasked with being the lookout, let out a warning cry.
Noticing Persian's alert posture, Ron immediately became vigilant.
With Ralts translating Persian's message, Ron understood the situation clearly: a wild Pokémon was cautiously approaching from the left-front.
"Get ready for battle—it's time to break through," Ron instructed.
Even before Ron spoke, Machamp was already aware of the unfolding situation. Now, hearing Ron's command, Machamp radiated a fiery battle aura.
As the distance closed, a Vileplume emerged in front of them.
Sensing the dangerous aura emanating from Machamp and his companions, Vileplume quickly made a decision.
"Sorry to disturb you," Vileplume said, nodding politely before decisively turning to leave.
However, Machamp wasn't about to let a rare find like this escape. Without waiting for Ron's instructions, Machamp used Shave (Soru) to propel himself forward.
Flames engulfed Machamp's four fists as he unleashed Fire Punch.
Hearing the commotion, Vileplume swiftly turned and countered with Secret Power. Given the grassy terrain, Secret Power gained a poisoning effect.
The flames from Machamp's attack consumed Vileplume's Secret Power entirely.
Standing its ground, Vileplume launched Razor Leaf in a desperate attempt to keep Machamp at bay. However, after witnessing Machamp's speed, Vileplume doubted it could outrun its opponent.
Gathering the flames from all four fists into a single fiery mass, Machamp charged forward like a meteor, leaving a fiery trail as he smashed through the Razor Leaf.
Reeling from the attack, Vileplume didn't give up and quickly retaliated with Seed Bomb.
Understanding that poison-based moves wouldn't work against a Fire-type specialist like Machamp, Vileplume knew its only hope was to drive Machamp back with brute force.
As the Seed Bomb exploded, smoke clouded Vileplume's vision. Before it could follow up, Machamp's voice came from behind.
Feeling the heat intensify from the rear, Vileplume was caught off guard and struck by Machamp's Four-Fist Fire Punch, sending it flying.
Burned and wracked with pain, Vileplume desperately fought to stay conscious despite its level-39 endurance.
"Finish it, Machamp—another Four-Fist Fire Punch!" Ron commanded.
Realizing the danger, Vileplume quickly tried to stand and prepare for one final stand, but Machamp's speed overwhelmed it.
In an instant, flames filled Vileplume's view, and it collapsed, unable to continue battling.
Against a level-39 opponent with a type disadvantage, Machamp couldn't imagine losing this fight.
With the accumulated experience from defeating Vileplume, Machamp finally crossed the threshold to level 40, advancing to mid-Elite rank.
With Machamp's breakthrough, Ron was now officially a mid-Elite trainer.
Standing still, Machamp quietly relished the newfound power surging within him.
Much like when he first reached the Elite rank, the jump from low to mid-Elite rank brought an exceptional increase in strength, far beyond the usual level progression.
Despite the overwhelming power coursing through him, Machamp didn't forget the most important thing—standing before Ron and reaffirming his loyalty and resolve.
Looking into Machamp's eyes, Ron saw his relentless fighting spirit and eagerness for more battles.
Coincidentally, Ron was also thinking about pushing Machamp further, solidifying his new strength and aiming for level 41.
As their thoughts aligned, the low-Elite Pokémon that Ron hadn't encountered yet were spared—for now.
Ron's next targets would be mid-Elite Pokémon, as only they could provide the necessary challenge for Machamp.
Stepping deeper into the forest, Persian grew even more cautious, carefully observing the surroundings for any signs of wild Pokémon.
Meanwhile, Machamp controlled his aura, letting it spread just far enough to attract the attention of powerful opponents without overwhelming his team.
This deliberate action was a declaration of challenge to the forest's strongest, inviting its ruler to come forward.
Soon enough, a Rhyhorn charged out of the underbrush.
Unlike low-Elite Pokémon, mid-Elite Pokémon often shared their territory with weaker ones, allowing them to dominate and collect resources while maintaining control over disputes among the inhabitants.
To preserve its status, a mid-Elite Pokémon like this Rhyhorn wouldn't tolerate another strong contender in its domain.
Even though Rhyhorn's instincts warned it of the significant risk, it didn't hesitate, initiating the battle with full force.
Wild Pokémon rarely flee unless the power gap is insurmountable.
"It's time to fight, Machamp! A level-43 Rhyhorn is a worthy opponent!" Ron declared, signaling the start of the battle.