Chapter 74 - 74: The Challenge (1)
"I challenge... the first place, Cain!" After making a firm decision, Xander didn't hesitate any longer and walked decisively toward the challenge area, bringing his Ekans with him.
Upon hearing Xander's words and seeing his actions, all eyes in the venue instantly focused on him. This feeling of being the center of everyone's attention gave Xander more confidence, and his expression became even more determined and haughty.
Watching Xander walk toward the battlefield, the Team Rocket examiner frowned and looked toward Viper in the stands.
Xander's identity was no longer a secret at Team Rocket's base. If anything happened to him, even Viper would struggle to face the wrath of Xander's brother, so the examiner could only wait for Viper's decision.
Viper displayed a serious expression; though he understood Xander's decision, he also knew that with everything in Cain's favor, Xander couldn't accept being increasingly outdone by him. Xander's pride wouldn't allow him to be pushed aside without taking action.
Viper gave a slight nod, indicating to the examiner that the challenge could proceed.
With Viper's approval, the Team Rocket examiner sighed slightly. If the conditions permitted, he wouldn't want to be involved in this fight, but now, as the examiner, he had no other choice.
Xander stopped on one side of the battlefield and laughed loudly, "Cain! What are you waiting for? Let me see how strong you really are! I hope you're not just all show!"
Cain stretched lazily, twisting his neck as he smiled silently.
Xander's challenge wasn't a surprise to Cain. In fact, when he had fixed his gaze on Xander earlier, he had partly done it to provoke him and ensure that he would decide to challenge him.
If everything went well, Cain would soon leave the island, and as the leader of the faction he had just consolidated, he needed to leave a strong enough impression.