On the way to Melemele Island's Pokémon School, Su Hao learned a great deal about Ash and the others' experiences in Sinnoh through Cynthia.
But if there was one thing Cynthia enjoyed talking about most with Su Hao, it was undoubtedly the pair of rivals she held in such high regard.
"All life encounters other life, and something is born from those encounters."
"Something truly did arise between Ash and Paul back then. I think... it was called a bond."
"After watching Ash and Paul's battle in the Sinnoh Pokémon League, I became certain that one day, they would emerge victorious in the Champion League. I look forward to that day."
"Unfortunately, Ash became Alola's first Champion, while Paul seems to want to become a Gym Leader. That makes me a little lonely."
Cynthia's gentle voice, as pleasant as a mountain spring, faded away. Her exquisite profile dipped slightly, as though she were lost in thought.
She thought that, besides representing the Sinnoh Pokémon League in the Pokémon World Championship, obtaining that mysterious shattered stone tablet, and battling other powerful opponents, there were probably quite a few reasons why she had entered the competition.
But if she had to name a deeper reason, it was likely her hope of standing on the same battlefield as Ash, Alola's first Champion.
Su Hao listened attentively to Cynthia's account. Noticing the expression that surfaced after she finished speaking, a thoughtful look flashed through his eyes.
As someone who only rooted for Ash and Paul, Cynthia must have really liked their relationship of being both rivals and friends.
Just then, the two happened to arrive at the main gate of the Pokémon School.
A voice filled with anger and defiance rang out.
"I'm not Ash's rival!"
"And I never once thought about helping Ash