Upon hearing Cain's words, old Matsuda's face showed a hint of concern. He understood Cain's intentions; Leafy Town was just beginning to take off, and at this moment, Cain held the reins.
However, if the Breeders' Guild sent a high-ranking and more experienced breeder to oversee operations, would Cain have to follow their orders?
If he did, then who would truly have control in Leafy Town? Cain would have done all this hard work only for others to take the credit.
If he didn't follow orders, his reputation within the Alliance might suffer. A young, promising leader of the Breeders' Guild who didn't respect his seniors could easily become the target of criticism.
Leafy Town had reached its current potential thanks to Cain's hard work, and he didn't want to see it crumble.
After thinking for a moment, old Matsuda remarked:
"It will be difficult, as there has never been an intermediate-level breeder as the president of a Breeders' Guild branch before."
"Moreover, if an intermediate-level breeder takes that position, it's unlikely that other high-level breeders would join the branch."
Cain had already anticipated this. His earlier statement was merely testing the waters. Now that he had a clear answer, he knew his master supported him more than the Breeders' Guild itself.
With a slight smile, Cain responded:
"In that case, I'll take a step back. Master, why don't you take the role of president of the Breeders' Guild branch in Leafy Town?"
"Me?" Old Matsuda was taken aback. With his reputation, he could easily take a high-ranking position in the Breeders' Guild, such as director or vice president.
But he hadn't done so because his true passion had always been researching Pokéblocks and breeding and training Pokémon. He had no interest in power struggles or politics.
"No, that's not for me. I'm used to my freedom, and I don't want a position like that to tie me down," old Matsuda declined immediately.
Cain, unsurprised by his master's response, smiled.
"Master, I'm not asking you to actively take on the role of president. It's just to have a strong backing. Someone of your prestige would prevent others from imposing their rules here."
Old Matsuda, finally understanding Cain's play, furrowed his brows and replied with humor:
"Oh, I see. You're asking me to be a figurehead president, huh? Basically, work for free for you."
Cain, scratching his head in embarrassment, explained:
"Of course not, Master! All the benefits of the position would be yours, and I'll also provide you with resources monthly for your research."
"This way, you won't have to hunt for resources, and you can focus on your work here. With you as president, no one would dare say a thing."
The proposal made sense. Old Matsuda needed significant funding for his research, but the Pokéblocks he developed were too valuable to sell.
If old Matsuda accepted the role of president but left the administration to Cain, he could simply receive the funds without having to be involved in day-to-day operations.
"Additionally, the top floor of the guild building will be your personal laboratory. If you ever feel bored, you can go out to collect materials or explore. You'll only need to show up occasionally in Leafy Town. With your reputation, high-level breeders won't be in short supply," Cain continued.
With old Matsuda as the nominal president, Cain could become a vice president with real power. While unconventional, it wouldn't be unacceptable.
Moreover, old Matsuda wasn't just a renowned breeder; he was also an elite-level trainer, a veteran among elite trainers. Though he wasn't famous among the general public, he was well-known among other veteran trainers.
Having old Matsuda in Leafy Town would deter many and help Cain consolidate his power. Even Cain's most secret projects, like his private team, would remain safe.
If Cain planned to open an underground market, those thinking of causing trouble would have to reckon with the possibility of dealing with an elite-level trainer like old Matsuda, increasing the market's security.
In short, having old Matsuda as a backer would bring Cain only advantages.
Additionally, Cain was eager to learn from his master's knowledge and discoveries. With old Matsuda there, Cain would have direct access to his wisdom and experience.
Finally, old Matsuda agreed to Cain's proposal, recognizing it would cause him no harm.
After delegating some responsibilities, old Matsuda departed, planning to inform the Breeders' Guild and arrange for his personal laboratory. He would also ensure that the branch's construction began immediately.
After old Matsuda's departure, Cain and Steven discussed how to boost Leafy Town's economic development.
The Devon Corporation research team had conducted a detailed study of the area, providing precise data now in Steven's possession.
Overall, Devon Corporation saw great potential in Leafy Town and recommended comprehensive development.
Steven, representing Devon Corporation, discussed possible collaborations with Cain. Both, focused on their own interests, didn't worry much about financial details.
Soon, they agreed that Devon Corporation would fund the construction of a commercial street centered around the new gym.
The shops along this street would be owned by the gym, while Devon Corporation would manage their operations, sharing the profits.
If Leafy Town thrived, this street would become a money-making machine.