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Chapter 15
Tom froze at Victor's words. "Money? How much can you pay? The best known keel in the world is Adam Wood—and most of the time, it's priceless even when it's available."
He looked like he'd just heard a joke.
Victor remained completely calm. "Not that much. I can only offer around ten billion Berries."
He said it casually—like it was pocket change. If it wasn't enough, he could always exchange more gold.
Tom's eyes widened. "Ten billion? You're serious?"
Even in this era, when Berries held strong purchasing power, that was an enormous sum. A single branch of Adam Wood might cost one billion—multiply that a few times and you're still only in the single-digit billions. Ten billion was enough to build a super battleship—not quite on the level of an Ancient Weapon like Pluton, but still a dream project for any shipwright. A chance to push his skills to the absolute limit.
Victor nodded. "Of course. If it's not enough, I can add more later. What do you think, Tom-san?"
He was fully embracing the nouveau riche role today.
Tom didn't hesitate. "Deal. As long as the funds are there, I'll start designing right away and order materials."
He immediately handed his current project to his assistants, turned to Victor, and led him back to his personal workshop.
Tom began sketching design concepts on the spot.
After Victor reviewed several existing blueprints and clearly stated his requirements, Tom quoted the material costs.
Current estimate: roughly five billion Berries.
Victor didn't blink—he handed over ten billion on the spot. A ship big enough for hundreds of people, built with the absolute best materials. The extra was basically a generous labor bonus.
Victor couldn't help but marvel at how strong Berries were in this era.
His thoughts drifted to the Kane Kane no Mi (Gold-Gold Fruit). If he ever got his hands on that… money problems would disappear forever.
Victor casually asked: "By the way, Tom-san—I'm looking to recruit a few shipwrights. Any recommendations?"
A ship this size would need a dedicated crew of builders and mechanics.
Tom thought for a moment. "I'll keep an eye out. I can introduce you to some good ones when the time comes."
Victor didn't directly invite Tom to join—he'd already seen how passionate the man was about shipbuilding. People like Tom wouldn't leave their life's work unless something drastic happened.
Still, Victor planted a seed. "Tom-san—if you ever run into a life-threatening situation, feel free to contact me. Who knows? Maybe one day I'll be in a position to change the entire balance of power on the seas. I'd hate to see talent like yours wasted."
Tom looked puzzled but smiled politely. "Thanks, Victor-san. But for now, I'm happy just building ships."
Victor didn't push. "Fair enough. Just keep the offer in mind."
He left Tom to his work.
Next: shopping. Victor needed Den Den Mushi (transponder snails) for communication—his current ones weren't enough.
He walked the streets of Water 7, eating local street food the whole time. Water 7's cuisine was excellent—he bought plenty to store away.
He also picked up several pairs of Den Den Mushi. Unfortunately, they couldn't go into his inner space (living creatures suffocated inside), so he had to carry them.
Meanwhile, Heracles—on a limited budget—spent every Berry he had on rare plant seeds, specimens, and cuttings. He knew Victor was exchanging gold for cash, so he went all out without hesitation.
When Victor returned to the ship later that day… trouble found him.
Word of someone exchanging massive amounts of gold spread fast. The moment he left the exchange shop, the underworld had him marked.
A group of thugs—local black market enforcers—decided to intercept him on his way back.
Victor sensed them immediately and deliberately walked into a narrow alley.
He kept eating calmly while addressing the dozen or so men blocking both ends. "You guys really picked the wrong target. Don't you value your lives?"
He took another bite of water-flesh skewer. "Mmm—this water meat is amazing. Really good."
The gang leader snarled, raising his cutlass. "Cut the crap. Hand over the money if you don't want to die."
Victor tilted his head. "Hmm… money's not impossible. But first—take me to your boss."
He actually had a use for the local underworld. Information networks like theirs were perfect for tracking rare items… like the Baku Baku no Mi.
The thugs blinked in confusion.
"What? He wants to see the boss?"
"Whatever—beat him first, then we'll see."
The leader barked: "Shut up! Enough talk—waste him!"
He charged with his men.
Victor sighed. "Guess you need a lesson."
He didn't even draw a weapon.
A few quick turns—almost casual—and every thug was sent flying into walls or the ground.
When the last one hit the pavement, Victor's food was still perfectly balanced in his hand.
The leader—now pinned under Victor's foot—begged desperately. "M-mercy! Mercy, big bro! We were blind—we didn't know who we were messing with!"
Victor looked down impassively. "Should've led the way from the start. No need for the beating. Now—lead me to your boss. I won't ask twice."
He kicked the man forward.
"Y-yes sir! Right away!"
The leader scrambled up and half-crawled, half-ran ahead.
Victor followed at a leisurely pace, still eating.
The other thugs fled in terror.
Soon they arrived at a large tavern—rowdy, filled with pirates and shady characters.
The leader led Victor straight to the back room.