Monferno is a Fire-type and Fighting-type Pokémon, but because of Duraludon's attribute combination, Fire-type Techniques cannot restrain it.
However, Fighting-type is indeed one of Duraludon's weaknesses.
"Monferno, Sonic Fist."
As a challenger, not only do you have the advantage of choosing Pokémon later, but also the advantage of attacking first.
"Sonic Fist" as a Fighting-type Technique, and an extremely fast one, is a very good opening move.
Just watch.
Monferno's fists swiftly moved, propelling its body seemingly beyond the speed of sound, blasting out a punch.
In the blink of an eye, it was in front of Duraludon.
Bang!
A solid punch landed on Duraludon's sturdy body, making a dull sound.
"Duraludon, Widespread Destruction." Natsuhiko commanded calmly without changing expression.
"Roar——!!"
The small Duraludon endured Monferno's punch, it was painful, but it also successfully stirred its pride as a Dragon-type Pokémon.
Like spiked claws swiftly swiping, it swept past Monferno, sending it flying.
Widespread Destruction: A Dragon-type Technique, a range attack move that reduces the opponent's Physical Attack Ability upon dealing damage.
As Monferno endured the attack, the intense pain made it frown deeply.
"Monferno!"
"Continue." Natsuhiko would not stop his actions just yet.
Ho——
Duraludon stomped the ground with two feet, charging towards Monferno at a pretty good speed.
"So fast." Ryouta was very surprised.
Because in his understanding, aren't Steel-type Pokémon all those with extremely strong Defense Power but whose speed is concerning?
Why is this Duraludon's speed so fast?!
Another solid round of "Widespread Destruction."
After two attacks, Monferno's Physical Attack Ability had been sharply reduced.
"This Steel-type Pokémon's speed is really good." Flint's eyes shone brighter and brighter; he felt he had found a new goal.
"'Widespread Destruction' this Dragon-type Technique is also quite rare, but it seems very practical for Duraludon." Lance also sighed.
Because it's not hard to see from the attribute combination that Duraludon's weaknesses are Fighting Type and Ground Type, and since Fighting-type Techniques mainly consist of Physical Attacks, "Widespread Destruction" can reduce the Physical Attack Ability, enhancing Duraludon's survival capability.
"The only drawback is it can't fly, but its speed surpasses most Steel-type Pokémon, which compensates somewhat." Lance continued.
The more they watched, the more they found this Duraludon... appealing!
In the field.
After Duraludon's continuous three "Widespread Destruction," Monferno's Physical Attack Ability was no longer much of a threat to it.
But very soon.
"Argh!"
Monferno staggered as it climbed up from the ground, the flames on its tail blazing, and its momentum rapidly increasing.
"Fierce Fire" trait activated!
"Monferno, Flame Fist!" Ryouta was extremely excited at this moment.
Since Fighting-type Techniques are no longer useful, then attack with Fire-type!
Monferno's whole body erupted with flames, gathering on Monferno's fist, taking two steps in three paces, rushing towards Duraludon.
Natsuhiko squinted his eyes.
In this challenger Ryouta, he vaguely saw a bit of Da Ye's shadow.
Perhaps this is the state of a Fire-type Pokémon Trainer.
Bang!!
Duraludon stood still, enduring Monferno's punch.
A charred fist mark appeared on the metallic body.
Step, step, step——
Duraludon retreated three steps.
This attack was a bit painful, even though Monferno's Attack Power had been weakened so much.
It also surprised Duraludon a little.
"End it, Stamping." Natsuhiko issued the final command.
Rumble!
Duraludon slammed a foot hard towards the ground, the ground layered, a crack rapidly spreading towards Monferno, exploding as it made contact.
At that moment, Natsuhiko's first thought was...
Don't use Ground-type Techniques much in the future, the field's destruction capacity is maxed, how much would it cost to repair afterward?
Cough cough.
"Monferno!" Ryouta quickly rushed into the field, embracing the fallen Monferno who had lost the ability to battle.
This round of the Ground-type Technique "Stamping" completed the harvesting of Monferno.
"I lost..." Ryouta sat dejectedly on the ground, holding Monferno tightly.
Natsuhiko walked slowly to Duraludon's side, patting it with satisfaction, then looked at Ryouta, "You're not bad."
"Hmm?"
Ryouta looked up in surprise.
"My assessment criteria do not entirely depend on winning or losing, you met my requirements, so... it's yours." Natsuhiko took out a brand-new badge.
This was the first badge he awarded as a Dojo Leader.
He hadn't expected to see such a promising seedling in the first match of the day.
This guy's strength might not be very strong, but Natsuhiko saw the bond between him and his Pokémon.
So, Natsuhiko felt he was worthy of this badge.
Such a person, as long as his fiery spirit can be maintained, may not reach Da Ye's level, but his achievements won't be low.
Of course, the premise is that even when he hits rock bottom, he can continue to hold firm to his inner self.
"Thank you, Mr. Natsuhiko."
Ryouta quickly stood up, bowed to Natsuhiko, and carefully received the badge.
Then happily displayed this Dragon-type badge under a crowd of cameras.
The whole venue erupted in applause.
"Is he giving out badges already? This person's ability is so far from Natsuhiko's." Wusong pushed his glasses up and said so.
Da Ye wrapped an arm around Wusong's neck, "What do you know, this is called passion, Natsuhiko felt that young man's passion, a mutual appreciation."