Chapter 424: Preparations for the Breeder Examination

"A new evolution method for Pokémon?" Old Matsuda's expression was one of astonishment.

"Yes."

Cain nodded and continued, "I've discovered a new way for a Pokémon to evolve. This Pokémon has been known for a long time, but the method of its evolution remains unknown."

"Which Pokémon?"

"Slowking," Cain replied.

"Slowking? You know how Slowpoke evolves into Slowking?" Old Matsuda's expression grew serious.

Discovering a new evolution method for a Pokémon was no simple feat. Many renowned Pokémon researchers spend their entire lives without uncovering such a breakthrough.

Only a few researchers who specialize in Pokémon studies can access or discover this kind of information.

"I discovered it by chance. Although the circumstances were somewhat special, I believe Slowking can only evolve under specific conditions. My Slowpoke evolved into Slowking right in front of us," Cain explained.

He then pulled out a Poké Ball and called out Slowking.

There was no other choice. Using the information on how Slowking evolves as leverage to secure the opportunity to open a gym seemed like a fair trade to Cain.

After all, even if he didn't share it now, someone else would eventually investigate and uncover it in a few years.

It was better to claim the credit early.

"Yadon~~!" Slowking appeared but already knew what Cain was planning while inside the Poké Ball. Upon emerging, it simply let out a calm sound.

If there was a Pokémon of Cain's that stood out as the smartest, it would undoubtedly be Slowking.

Although it appeared composed on the surface, after evolving into Slowking, it exuded an air of confidence that made it impossible for anyone to see it as foolish.

"It really is Slowking." Old Matsuda's eyes lit up as he observed Slowking standing behind Cain.

He had heard of Slowking but had never seen one in person. He hadn't expected his disciple to have raised one.

Old Matsuda knew Cain owned a Slowpoke, but he hadn't expected that the calm Slowpoke would evolve into a Slowking.

The entire presence of the Pokémon was now completely different.

"How did it evolve—never mind, don't tell me for now. If you've truly discovered the evolution method for Slowking, then there's more room for negotiation," Old Matsuda said, initially intending to ask but ultimately deciding against it.

After all, it was his disciple's achievement, so it would be better for Cain to present it himself.

"Here's what you should do: find time to go to Saffron City in the Kanto region, visit the Breeders Guild branch there, and pass the intermediate breeder examination. After that, I'll introduce you to someone."

"Submit your findings to that person and explain exactly how Slowking evolves. If they approve of your results, your reputation will grow significantly."

"You'll become the youngest intermediate breeder in the League and the youngest Pokémon researcher to discover an evolution method. With these credentials, you'll be able to apply to open a gym in the Hoenn region League. I'll then reach out to some old friends to pull some strings, and there shouldn't be any issues."

Old Matsuda explained his plan, which seemed to be the most reasonable and stable approach at the moment.

Cain considered Old Matsuda's words and thought they made a lot of sense.

But if he went through with this, he would likely be in the League's spotlight for a while. During that time, he would need to hold back a bit when it came to matters involving underground forces and the hunter team.

And the person Old Matsuda wanted to introduce him to was also in the Kanto region, someone whose words carried significant weight. Could that person be...?

Professor Oak.

The most famous and accomplished Pokémon researcher in the Kanto region.

If it was him, Cain thought he would be quite reliable.

Given Professor Oak's status within the League, few people would question his opinion.

Not only because of his Pokémon knowledge but also due to his strength, which was undeniably high-level in the Kanto region.

Professor Oak had been Kanto's Champion but had stepped down quickly. If he hadn't, he would still hold the position of Champion.

He was the most qualified person to occupy the Champion role in the Kanto region.

But like Cain's master, he had no interest in power, which pleased the League administration since it meant no one was exerting control over them. That's why the Champion position in Kanto remained vacant.

"All right! I'll head to Saffron City in the Kanto region in a couple of days. Will you come with me, Master?" Cain accepted the proposal.

Old Matsuda waved his hand dismissively and said, "I won't go. Once you arrive at the Breeders Guild branch in Saffron City, just take the exam. After you pass, I'll tell you where to find that person."

"We'll discuss the next steps once you finish the evaluation. I suppose that once you pass the intermediate breeder examination, your reputation will grow significantly."

Old Matsuda was at a critical point in his experiment and didn't have time to see how Cain fared. Perhaps after finishing his experiment, he might venture out, but not now.

"Understood, Master. I'll head to Saffron City and pass the intermediate breeder evaluation," Cain said.

Cain had no issues with this. After all, the exam to become an intermediate breeder seemed straightforward to him.

If not for the fact that becoming an advanced breeder at his age would be too surprising, Cain could take the advanced breeder evaluation right now.

Although the breeder role required a great deal of knowledge, the most critical aspects were Pokémon expertise and crafting Pokéblocks.

"Ha ha, so confident? Did you read all the material I sent you?" Old Matsuda laughed, seeing Cain's confidence.

"Of course, I read everything and memorized it. Master, you can test me anytime."

"Good! I'll ask you a few questions. If you don't pass the intermediate breeder exam, you'll make me lose face."

And so, master and disciple began discussing the knowledge required to become an intermediate breeder.

Most of the time, Old Matsuda would ask questions, and Cain would answer.

(End of Chapter)