Chapter 401 - Matt’s Decision
The fat merchant didn’t seem any different from before.
Matt instantly revealed a warm smile as he entered the living room and saw Rhode standing there. He approached Rhode and grabbed his hand enthusiastically.
“Aiya, it’s been awhile, Mr Rhode. Although I’ve heard you went to the Land of Atonement, I didn’t think you would be there for so long. I’ve waited for you so miserably.”
“Long time no see, Mr Matt.”
Shaking the fat merchant’s hand, Rhode retained his expression. However, his eyes revealed a somewhat depressed look.
“I thought you didn’t intend to work with me already.”
“Hahaha, Mr Rhode sure knows how to crack jokes.”
Matt awkwardly smiled as he knew what Rhode was referring to. However, nevertheless, this was also his problem. It had been a long time since the midsummer festival ended and Matt was also unsure if he would be welcomed here. However, after seeing that Rhode didn’t have the intentions of chasing him out, the fat merchant felt much better.
Merchants mainly had skin as thick as walls. If not, they wouldn’t be able to do their businesses. Since Rhode didn’t mention about it, Matt wouldn’t be that dumb to talk about this foolish matter. He laughed it off while Rhode didn’t remind him of that, because the fat merchant had explained his thoughts with his visit already.
Rhode picked up the piece of paper that Matt placed in front of him. Although Rhode said he would look at it, he squeezed the paper into the fold of his clothes instantly. Then, Rhode gazed at Matt.
“But before that, Mr Matt. I have something to clarify with you.”
“What is it regarding?”
Matt was taken aback by Rhode’s stern expression as he hesitantly and worriedly asked. In response, Rhode knocked on the table and only spoke after staying silent for a few moments.
“Previously we had discussed this openly once. But now, since you have already decided, I think there’s no need to hide anymore… Regarding the relationship of your trade association and our guild, what do you think? Mr Matt?”
“This…”
Matt’s expression slightly changed.
“I can honestly tell you, Mr Matt, that the reason we chose to collaborate with your trade association, was mainly because we need the cash flow to sustain the operations of our guild. But… regarding the matters of our guild, we would still be in charge. Our relationship wouldn’t be the same as the relationship between a guild and a trade association. Do you understand what I mean?”
“…”
Matt fell into silence.
When they headed to Golden City, Matt once discussed with Rhode on this matter. However, Rhode didn’t reveal his true intentions back then as he only hoped that they could collaborate. But now, Rhode directly revealed his thoughts — He wouldn’t allow his Starlight Guild to be under the restriction of sponsors. Instead, this trade association would, in turn. be the guild’s money-making machine. From another perspective, the trade association could be seen as Starlight Guild’s affiliate which raked in profits for them specially.
After listening to Rhode’s truthful words, the anticipation deep in Matt’s heart was still present. After all, humans always fought for their own benefits. Right now, Rhode’s forces were much stronger than his and even though Matt thought he could use the cash flow as an upper hand to get Starlight Guild to help on matters to a certain extent, it seemed that things weren’t that simple at all.
“I understand your meaning, Mr Rhode. But… To be frank, this wouldn’t be the perfect choice for us trade association.”
“I’m clear of this point.”
Facing Matt’s answer, Rhode understandingly nodded.
“As working partners, we definitely have the obligation to assist your trade association… If you ever require help or face any difficulty, we will do our best.”
“That’s fine.”
Matt finally revealed a smile. At this moment, he had thought things through. Initially, he didn’t anticipate to manipulate from behind the scenes like how the other trade associations did. After all, these manipulations weren’t realistic. Just looking at the structure of this guild and the background of those members, how would he even be able to manipulate them? Like now, relying on the other party’s protection seemed to also be a good choice.
With this thought, Matt stood up and extended his hand forward.
“So then, I look forward to working with you, Mr Rhode.”