Just as expected.
Inside the villa, which serves as a temporary refuge.
Baimu, who used Hoopa to bring back four "children," was almost killed by Liu Ge's stare.
When he saw Liu Ge's pleasant demeanor towards Ash Ketchum and the others, he inexplicably wondered if his status in this former leader's heart had changed?
Wasn't Flop and Gliscor often the ones getting scolded back then?
"Maybe this is the price of growth."
Baimu sighed.
The general plan had been successfully formulated, and after a day and a half of specialized learning, Hoopa roughly understood what computer files were and even conducted a practical infiltration of a pre-set computer.
Liu Ge's sole concern—that the infiltration might directly lock the system or pull the plug by Flashing Flame Team's technicians—was effectively resolved with Hitron's accession.
There might even be surplus time to prepare for an ambush, not just stealing the files and being detected.
A genius inventor who independently designed the robot AI and successfully applied it to Gym challenges, and later made the Black Technology Rotom Illustrated Guide, his skills were even praised by members of the International Police Information Department.
The naturally shy Hitron couldn't help but bow repeatedly in thanks when praised by people around.
Ash Ketchum and the others were also happy that he could help.
"Considering his contribution, I won't blame you this time."
Liu Ge clapped while quietly sneaking up beside Baimu.
Baimu: "..."
Flop, please come back! I can't handle this menopausal boss!
Overall.
Everything is ready except for the final touch.
He asked Liu Ge when to take action, the Lumiose Conference opening ceremony was getting closer.
Liu Ge stated that they needed to wait for the Hoenn Champion Da Wu's response, who seemed to have some idea but was hesitating, and should reply by today at the latest.
An idea?
Baimu was momentarily stunned. How could Mr. Da Wu possibly drag time due to personal matters, then he realized something.
Could it be... hesitating about Ailan?
Indeed.
This speculation was confirmed when Da Wu arrived later, by his own words.
"Ailan's trust and admiration for Fladari... makes me hesitate in whether to tell him the truth. I am worried that once he realizes everything he's done is aiding the wicked, he might fall into despair."
Unlike Baimu, who had almost no feelings for Ailan, Da Wu had immense admiration for him, praising him not just in the animation but even in the game.
Perhaps because of his presence, Ailan's weight in Da Wu's heart has reduced.
But the care is still ample.
Da Wu's dilemma lies in whether to inform Ailan of everything, so he can be mentally prepared or possibly recruited into this plan.
After all, essentially, Ailan is also a veiled victim.
Da Wu couldn't bear to see such a Trainer sink into endless suffering, hoping he could extend a helping hand.
Yet, this guy seems too obsessive recently, even he worries that just after speaking, the other party might rush to question Fladari, leading to the entire plan's failure.
Thus, very conflicted and helpless.
"This is not your responsibility, Mr. Da Wu."
Looking at Da Wu's wistful expression, Baimu couldn't help saying:
"The ability to make decisions belongs only to oneself, others' words are simply a reason to convince oneself. People must pay the price for their choices. Therefore, no matter how much Ailan is eventually hurt by the truth, it can never, nor should it be your responsibility."
Shifting all the blame on himself, striving for everything to be perfect.
This is the 'arrogance' of Da Wu as the Hoenn Champion.
Though never explicitly stated, his various actions have perfectly elucidated the self-imposed mantra of "With greater power comes greater responsibility."
Baimu has always respected such a Mr. Da Wu.
"Ahaha... What you say does make sense."
The silver-haired young man gazed at the distant clouds, gently smiled, and softly said, "But when I perceive the evil within Fladari, then look at Ailan, it reminded me of someone."
"... Who?"
"You."
Da Wu turned his head, looked into Baimu's eyes, and calmly said: "You, who once helplessly stayed in the darkness like him, yet you steadfastly walked toward the light, never wavering, embracing a new future.
"It is because I saw you that I am unwilling to sit back and watch Ailan just sink like this. I cannot go back to the past to help the you who was once in darkness, but I at least hope to help the lost him a bit."
This.
Baimu didn't know how to respond.
His earlier words were essentially bluntly saying—never mind Ailan, destiny should take its course, and then you tell me you want to save him because of me?
How to respond? Tell me how to respond!
Baimu covered his forehead, thought for a while, and decided to play his trump card—
"Ash Ketchum!!"
He turned and went back into the villa, called in Ash Ketchum, who was playing with Hoopa and Pikachu.
"Wha-what's up?"
"Pika?"
Ash Ketchum and Pikachu looked at the two of them puzzled.
Baimu passed on the matter regarding Ailan and asked for his opinion.
Da Wu didn't quite understand why he told this ten-year-old boy whom he only met once, yet quietly observed.
"So, it turns out he..."
Ash Ketchum slightly lowered his head, his tone somewhat wistful but soon cleared it, looked at Da Wu firmly and said, "I think Ailan isn't that weak."
"Oh?"
"I had a couple of brief battles with him before, both times I couldn't manage to defeat him for some reason, that guy..."