| Pikachu's ninth stop was Sydney, Australia. Here, Pikachu decided to dress himself up like Crocodile Dundee as he gave another (translated) speech about the beauty of Australia. The Sydney Opra House was the scene where nearly 20 000 excited fans met with Pikachu, getting autographs and pictures with the yellow celebrity. The new security setup was something. Pikachu's security team members were stationed around the premesis, each connected to the others via sleek sliver walkie-talkie headsets. Two were stationed on either side of the stage where Pikachu was giving his speech, and another stationed to the roof of the Opera House as lookout. A close look revealed that another security member was standing in the shadows of the stage behind Pikachu. (I recognized three from previous interviews.) I was convinced then and there that anyone who attempted another pika-napping now would be crazy. I spoke with Pikachu about the new setup later that day (the interview has been translated to English). P.I: Hello, Mr. Chu. Tell me, what do you think of this new security setup? Pikachu: (I don't know, I mean, it feels like I have people hovering over my shoulder all the time.) P.I: That's good, isn't it? Pikachu: (I'm still trying to convince myself of that. I'm sure it's safer for me, but I don't feel comfortable. I feel like I'm surrounded, and besides, isn't this setup dangerous for my friends? They're all spread out and can't get to one another if one of them needs help. See what I'm saying?) P.I: That is a good point, Pikachu. But let's remember, you're the one who's in potential danger, here. Your security team agrees. Besides, who's gonna try to kidnap a member of security? Not many people here. Pikachu: (There's a reason I made them all wear veils. In case you haven't caught on, I don't want anyone recognized. It could be dangerous, for me, but mainly for one of them. I don't want one of my friends to be hurt. A few have alredy been hurt, not badly, but still hurt, and I'd feel horrible for life after what they've done for me if something really bad happened!) P.I: Why would they be recognized? Pikachu: (You've talked to three of them and you STILL haven't got it yet? Are the veils seriously that misleading? It's not like I'm making them wear masks and uniforms! You recognized Ash! I mean, uh, um, they're known around here too, I mean, no they're not! You don't know anyone! I mean, uh, let's change the subject! Now!) P.I: Okay . . . what do you think of the huge numbers of fans you've had at the last few stops? Pikachu: (Are you kidding? It's GREAT! I love to see my fans, and this many is amazing!) P.I: What would you say has been your favourite stop so far? Pikachu: (Hmmmmmm, good question. Let's see . . . China. No, no . . . France. No, maybe Greece. Oh, I can't forget Japan. But Italy . . . Wait, I liked India too. Then again, England was nice. But I like it here too . . . Your entire world's nice.) P.I: Awwww, thanks. I mean, thank-you for your time, Mr. Chu. Pikachu: (Yep. Hope to see you again soon!) |
 |