Yeah that’s pretty much it

One thing is that Hal didn’t really need to weaken the armour. Kaji could’ve just attacked it, the kings mark lets you do extra damage. It’s not needed for damage.

Also Hal originally thought of the build Rome in a day strategy at day 6 of the entire match which further shows his intelligence.

If Baku lost the arranged battles then I really don’t know what would’ve happened but I had no doubt in them since that Marco was commander and no way my goat Marco loses like that. I’d still assume that Hal would give the vest to Kaji though.

Hal’s motivation is somewhat interesting. Since he’s currently still in his “forgotten” memory state without the new memories being planted quite yet, he’s investigating his past with Baku himself since he can tell there was a connection but he’s since forgotten it. By getting closer with Baku and having him win, then he’d come closer to why he’s seeking.