Public opinion was almost entirely one-sided, rapidly shifting from the initial shock and resistance from some fans to curiosity, teasing, and even hints of "well wishes." People seemed unusually accepting of the possible romance between "genius Pokémon Trainer Xia You" and "Champion superstar Diantha," even considering it a fine match between "a talented man and a beautiful woman" who were "equally accomplished."
Xia You's brilliant past achievements and positive image had instead become "points in favor" of this rumored romance!
In his office, Wutang stared fixedly at the comments racing across his screen. His face went from flushed red to livid, then finally deathly pale. Even his hand on the mouse was trembling.
"Xia You...? That Xia You!?"
He finally remembered why the man had looked a little familiar at the restaurant yesterday!
He had indeed glimpsed this young man's photograph and name in a financial magazine's report on the impact of the competitive Pokémon industry. He simply hadn't given it any thought at the time!
He was just a Pokémon Trainer. However good he was, how much influence could he possibly have?
How could he have imagined that this "Pokémon Trainer" enjoyed such recognition and such a good reputation among the general public and Pokémon enthusiasts!
"He was hiding his strength to make a fool of me... he definitely did it on purpose!"
Wutang gritted his teeth, feeling like an utter clown.
His carefully planned smear campaign had not only failed to hurt Diantha, but seemed to be promoting Xia You instead, even indirectly "confirming" and "elevating" their relationship!
No, I can't let it end like this!
I still have another move!
He dialed the phone again, his voice somewhat shrill with anger. "Release those blurry photos of that man acting intimately with the women traveling with him, too.