[ The reassuring smile and compliment that Cilan gives Ash is enough for Ash to give him a better smile back. ]

And I know that you'll do your best Cilan. Because not only did you play the Pokemon Sorcerer who helped the Pokemon Knight but you're also one of the best gym leaders I know!

[ It doesn't matter whether or not it's silly to Ash because it looks like it's cheering Cilan up. And in return also cheering him up so it's a win-win situation. ]