To Caitlin, individuals like Marshal—those who, like her, possessed extraordinary powers far beyond ordinary humans—felt more like her true peers.
So now, when she looked at Rex, her gaze carried new depth. He was no longer just a curious guest she'd invited on a whim—he was someone worth paying attention to.
Soon, under Caitlin's lead, the group arrived at a spacious room within the castle.
Though called a "room," it was more like a private arena, complete with a regulation Pokémon battlefield. Around the edges were various training tools, much like gym equipment. Judging by the wear on them, Rex could tell Caitlin didn't just collect them—she used them often.
Though battling wasn't her main interest, with Rex and Marshal as the featured fighters, everyone—even Cynthia and Diantha—was fully engaged. Elesa and Aliza were equally curious, especially Aliza, who was practically sparkling with excitement.
She felt like she'd finally discovered Rex's secret to strength—and now, she was determined to learn more.
Standing across from Rex, Marshal raised his fists into a ready stance. "Rex, are you ready?"
"I'm ready," Rex replied calmly. His posture seemed casual, but his attention was fully locked onto Marshal.
BAM! BAM! BAM!
The moment Rex spoke, Marshal lunged like a charging beast. The two clashed with powerful blows that echoed through the chamber.
Despite the noticeable size difference, Rex stood firm, blocking Marshal's heavy strikes head-on. From the outside, it looked like an even match—blow for blow, attack and counterattack.
But Rex could feel the truth with every strike. Each collision with Marshal's fists felt like striking steel coils—tight, compressed, and threatening to snap back at any moment. He was being slowly pushed toward his limits.
Realizing this direct approach wouldn't last, Rex quickly adjusted, shifting to a more evasive, fluid fighting style—weaving, dodging, and striking at angles to wear down his larger opponent.
So far, neither had used any true Fighting-type skills—they were purely relying on their physical abilities. But even this was overwhelming for spectators. Their speed was beyond what most eyes could follow—Cynthia and Diantha could only catch fleeting afterimages.
Only Caitlin, using her psychic senses, could track the full battle clearly.
Even without moves, their exchanges were leaving the battlefield cratered. Each strike came with redirected force, channeled into the floor using masterful technique to absorb impact.
"I never knew Rex was this strong… Honestly, their fight is more intense than most Pokémon battles I've seen," Elesa muttered in disbelief.
Rex's seemingly quiet demeanor made his explosive strength all the more surprising.
Marshal, now grinning, called out, "You've got solid fundamentals, Rex. But I've finished warming up. Brace yourself!"
His aura flared. In a flash, he closed the gap and grabbed Rex's arm—then hurled him over his shoulder in a textbook-perfect throw.
"Seismic Throw."
Rex recognized the move instantly. The moment Marshal's grip tightened, Rex had tried to resist—but a surge of Fighting-type energy locked his body in place, rendering him immobile for a split second.
This was a skill Rex had recently studied. Unlike the raw power of Brick Break, Seismic Throw used controlled energy and leverage to subdue the opponent. It was exactly the kind of move Rex wanted to master next.
Slamming hard into the floor, Rex felt like his body had shattered. Before he could react, Marshal pinned him securely.
"I yield," Rex managed once he'd recovered a little.
Marshal immediately released him and patted his shoulder with a warm smile.
"I'm impressed. Not many your age would accept defeat so readily."
Marshal had seen many talented young fighters in his time—but too many were blinded by pride, refusing to accept loss and making excuses. Rex's humility set him apart.
"You held your own longer than most would. Without skills, I couldn't take you down quickly," Marshal said honestly.
"I know I've still got a long way to go," Rex replied, not discouraged in the slightest. "But I'll keep working hard to catch up."
"Well said."
"Let's head out," Caitlin suggested. "The preliminary matches should be wrapping up by now."
Everyone agreed and followed her out of the arena.
As they walked, Rex turned to Marshal. "I'm planning to learn Seismic Throw next. I'd be grateful if you'd offer me some pointers."
Marshal beamed. "Of course! Anytime you have questions, don't hesitate to ask. I'll help however I can."
Perhaps because there were so few true martial artists these days, veteran fighters like Marshal were always eager to pass down their knowledge.
(End of Chapter)