Question about squidzilla and pukachu

[Jp4464]

Hey guys, Jp here.
I'm new to the forums, and am somewhat new to munchkin.

My first question is: for defeating a pukachu without help or bonuses, you gain an extra level. Does a warriors ability to discard cards to gain up to 3 combat levels count as help or bonus?

My second question:on the squidzilla's card, it says elves are at -4. Does this mean that the elves combat is exactly -4, or that the elves loses 4 combat levels?


Thanks for the help, I look forward to posting more in the future!


-Jp