The Eevee, rarely stimulated by a competitive spirit due to an opponent, suddenly experienced a fluctuation in its aura and energy.
This is its chance!
Natsuhiko instantly made a judgment.
"Kuru!"
He promptly adjusted his battle strategy in his mind.
Although such a tactical arrangement is somewhat risky for this match, given that he has three Pokémon available to fight, Natsuhiko has another Pokémon to support.
Using a bit of match danger in exchange for a chance for Eevee.
Natsuhiko deemed it worthwhile.
"Clap Attack!"
After making the judgment, Natsuhiko immediately commanded.
Infernape reacted quickly, speedily rushing straight at the Eevee about to land.
Ilima's expression slightly changed.
Infernape, yet another Pokémon beyond his expectations.
The most crucial is the technique Infernape employed; if Eevee is hit, it will inevitably fall into a "Wither" state, definitely becoming an opportunity for Infernape to erupt.
But Eevee hasn't landed yet.
Ilima quickly responded, "Takeover!"
"Takeover! Both opted for Takeover! Ilima's choice is very decisive!"
However.
Infernape's eyes flickered, and its speed abruptly increased.
Pa!!
The crisp sound echoed in the field as Ilima's Eevee failed to execute "Takeover," getting smacked onto the ground and falling into a "Wither" state.
"This..." The commentator was momentarily speechless.
Luckily, a voice in his earpiece made him swiftly explain.
"Ladies and gentlemen! The 'Clap Attack' technique possesses priority, so Ilima's Eevee failed to use 'Takeover'!"
Priority is higher-level knowledge, unknown to many.
After hearing the explanation, the audience finally understood.
That's how it is.
"Close Combat," Natsuhiko continued.
Then noticed Infernape suddenly stomp its foot on the ground, causing a roaring tremor.
The jolting rocks directly bounced Eevee off the ground, tight fists bullet-like landing entirely on Eevee's petite and weak body.
"Buyi Buyi!!"
The Eevee at Natsuhiko's feet stood up, mimicking Infernape's punching style in succession.
As if it were the one delivering punches, not Infernape.
After the set of punches ended, Ilima's Eevee felt pain all over its body.
However.
What truly changed Ilima's expression drastically was.
At the final punch, Infernape turned its fist into a grab, seizing Eevee's tail.
Infernape: When it comes to battling Eevee, I have ample experience.
It's determined to resolve Eevee at once, giving no chance.
Fortunately.
Before Infernape could act, a red beam shot at Eevee, withdrawing it.
"Ilima's quick response; had he not recalled it, Eevee might have entirely lost its combat ability!"
"Trick."
Ilima indeed recalled Eevee, yet Natsuhiko's command was relayed.
Alternating battles are permissible.
Offering opportunity for the remaining Pokémon on the field.
Infernape's eyes gleamed with a black mystique, flames surging wildly on its body.
Beads of sweat trickled down Ilima's forehead.
Facing Natsuhiko is immensely pressuring, especially against this Infernape.
Relentless advancing, giving no breathing opportunities, markedly different from the feel against Latios yesterday, tactics entirely different too.
To prevent further boosts for Infernape, Ilima promptly threw out a Pokeball.
"Ilima summons Gumshoos!"
"Flame Vortex."
Yet, upon Gumshoos's appearance, it faced Infernape's ferocious flames spat forth.
Interweaving red-gold flames enveloped Gumshoos.
"Gumshoos, charge out!"
Heeding Ilima's command, Gumshoos bit firmly against the flames, rapidly moving its limbs, circling Infernape to seek opportunities.
Due to the "Curse," Infernape lacks speed advantage against Gumshoos.
However, Infernape closely monitored Gumshoos, guarding against surprise attack.
"Gumshoos, Shadow Clone!"
Leaving no chance for Infernape to lock, Gumshoos's shadows appeared consecutively, encircling Infernape, increasing its lock difficulty.
Natsuhiko slightly furrowed his brows but swiftly relaxed.
"Hot Wind."
"Kuru!!"
Infernape hunched, poised for action, while the flames on its hair spread fervently, a frightening heat wave centered on it, spreading rapidly toward the surroundings.
The commentator shielded his face, retreating, while front-row audiences gazed at the recurring lights on the protective film of the battle arena, clicking their tongues.
"What terrifying temperature, Natsuhiko's Infernape's flame temperature is too terrifying!" The commentator had to stand in a corner to elaborate.
As the hot wind dispersed, Gumshoos's shadows naturally perished one by one.
"Gotcha, Close Combat."
Infernape struck out at Gumshoos, locking onto it and throwing a punch.
Ilima's expression changed drastically, hastily shouted: "Gumshoos, Angry Fang!"
Bang bang bang——!!
Another set of rapid combination punches, each punch landing solidly.
Gumshoos was firmly slammed onto the ground.
"Gumshoos lost combat capability! Natsuhiko's Infernape is extremely powerful in both body and fire!"
Infernape glanced at its own fists, which bore two large fang marks.
In the end, it was bitten after all.
The sharp pain piercing the fists made Infernape involuntarily frown.
Natsuhiko also glanced at Ilima with some amazement; to retaliate while enduring Infernape's "Close Combat," this Gumshoos has been trained quite well.