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As Sceptile continued deeper into the gym, they encountered several other disciples, each facing different Fighting-type Pokémon such as Hitmonchan, Hitmonlee, and Hariyama.
Sceptile's performance was truly astonishing; it seemed to possess unique talent for close-quarters combat. Most importantly, Sceptile displayed exceptional learning ability when it came to fighting techniques. Initially at a disadvantage, it quickly adapted by studying its opponents' moves, gradually gaining the upper hand and ultimately defeating them smoothly.
Sweeping through like a champion, Sceptile consecutively defeated five Gym disciples' Fighting-type Pokémon. Despite sustaining some injuries, its impressive display left Kalia utterly amazed.
It became evident that Sceptile had remarkable aptitude for close-range combat, rarely using Special Attack moves during battles. Instead, it primarily relied on physical moves such as Leaf Blade, Fury Cutter, Dual Chop, along with Agility and Detect.
Using these moves effectively, Sceptile consistently thwarted its opponents' attacks and emerged victorious time after time. Even the Gym disciples were astounded by Sceptile's performance, having never witnessed a Pokémon with such innate Fighting-type talents before.
However, after defeating five Gym disciples' Pokemon, Sceptile began to struggle against the sixth Pokemon due primarily to its insufficient attack strength. Additionally, the previous battles had taken a toll on it. Despite its speed, being unable to deal significant damage rendered it ineffective.
The sixth Pokemon was a Machamp, distinct from Aurora's Machamp. This Gym disciple's Machamp lacked the Unprotected Ability and wasn't as formidable as Aurora's Machamp.
Nevertheless, this Machamp had undergone years of combat training, mastering advanced Fighting-type moves, making it far more terrifying than Aurora's Machamp.
With four powerful arms, Machamp displayed exceptional talent in Fighting techniques. Remarkably, this Machamp could simultaneously execute two Brick Breaks, showcasing incredible skill.
As the saying goes, "Two fists can hardly match four hands," Sceptile, with only two arms, faced overwhelming odds against Machamp's four well-trained limbs. Even without using specific moves, each casual strike from Machamp's arm could potentially be lethal.
Machamp's attacks were exceptionally fierce, unleashing continuous dual Brick Breaks interspersed occasionally with Dragon-type Dual Chop moves, putting Sceptile under immense pressure.
Even when Sceptile occasionally landed hits on Machamp, its defense was formidable, rendering the impact minimal. Eventually, a single misstep allowed Machamp to strike with Brick Break, instantly defeating Sceptile.
Overall, it was impressive that Sceptile managed to hold out for so long. However, its attack ability value fell significantly short compared to Machamp's; one move of Brick Break from Machamp could defeat Sceptile, while multiple attacks from Sceptile were unable to knock down Machamp.
Sceptile's attack base stat has always been relatively weak, lagging behind its special attack capabilities, which is quite unfortunate.
Kalia recalled her defeated Sceptile, feeling slightly disappointed but acknowledging its remarkable display by defeating five Pokemon consecutively.
Inside his Poké Ball, Lian also sensed Sceptile's loss, finding it unsurprising. Despite Sceptile's exceptional fighting talent, its low attack power remained a significant drawback.
Regardless of how fast or frequent your strikes, if they lack impact compared to a single punch from your opponent, one successful hit can end the battle.
Given Sceptile's extraordinary talent in combat techniques, Lian considered enhancing its attack ability value. However, he first needed to consult with Sceptile itself.
In reality, utilizing dual blades could be advantageous for both long-range and close combat. Opponents might assume Sceptile excels at aggressive melee battles, but by maintaining distance, it becomes a formidable ranged special attacker.
Focusing solely on physical attacks would waste its high Special Attack potential, especially considering future Mega Evolution could further skyrocket Sceptile's Special Attack base stat.
After emerging from his Poké Ball, Lian eyed the opposing Machamp across the field. Despite lacking Sunny Day support, he felt confident facing Machamp head-on.
Lian wasn't particularly keen on combat techniques; although he had trained briefly for a month, most of that knowledge seemed to have faded from memory.
Without waiting for Kalia's command, Lian immediately formed an Air Slash and released it directly towards Machamp.
While Lian lacked formal combat training, he didn't necessarily need it.
Machamp acutely detected the invisible Air Slash approaching, yet evading or blocking proved challenging despite recognizing the threat.
Compared to Aurora's Machamp, this one was noticeably weaker in level. Otherwise, Sceptile wouldn't have won so easily earlier, succumbing to the disparity in levels instead.
The sharp Air Slash swiftly targeted Machamp, which retaliated with a well-executed Brick Break from both palms, akin to twin blades colliding with the air blade.
Physical attacks primarily rely on physical strength, while Special Attacks depend on energy bursts. Generally, using Physical moves to counter Special moves is not advisable due to their mismatched effectiveness.
Machamp's attempt to block Lian's Air Slash with Brick Break underestimated its power, even when utilizing both hands simultaneously.
With Lian boasting a Special Attack of over 1700 and unleashing his signature Air Slash, Machamp aimed to resist it solely with two instances of Brick Break.
Lian couldn't help but think:
Are you kidding me?!
With a resounding boom, the Air Slash collided with Machamp's palms. Had it not used Brick Break with both hands, this single Air Slash would have likely severed them instantly.
Machamp felt an intense force penetrating through its palms, causing excruciating pain. The powerful shockwave generated by the energy clash thrust Machamp backward.
As it prepared to counterattack, a blazing orange inferno approached without giving it any time to react. Instantaneously, Machamp was engulfed by flames.
In the next instant, Machamp collapsed to the ground. Although its Brick Break managed to mitigate some of Air Slash's power, the remaining impact was still substantial. Combined with Lian's full-powered Flamethrower, which Machamp bore entirely, it proved too overwhelming for this approximately Level 40 Pokémon.
The victory was effortless and straightforward.
At his current strength, facing off against Level 40 Pokemon felt almost unfair; they were simply not on the same level.
The Gym Leader's disciple stood stunned but quickly reacted by moving aside, narrowly avoiding being engulfed by the flames.
Having defeated the sixth Pokémon, Lian continued advancing with Kalia. Almost no communication was needed between them, as the narrow area meant battles commenced immediately upon encountering opponents.
Lian effortlessly overcame the final Pokémon as well, without any challenge. With his robust defense, he could withstand multiple attacks from his adversaries without issue.
After defeating seven gym disciples, Kalia successfully earned the opportunity to challenge the Gym Leader. However, she wasn't the only Trainer eligible; they all had to wait until Takeshi completed his cultivation session.