Earning One Trillion Berries Before Retiring Chapter 16-20

• Chapter 16 - Are you preaching to me?

East Blue Sea, near the entrance to the Grand Line:

"Report to Vice Admiral Kahn, we're approaching Loguetown. Please provide instructions."

"Already in Loguetown?" Kahn let out a slight sigh. This was the place that marked the beginning of the Great Pirate Era.

Roger's last words before his execution had ignited the world, ushering in the era of the Great Pirates. It was as if a fiery proclamation had set the times ablaze.

However, Kahn regarded all of this as mere rhetoric.

In the wake of Roger's words, the world had witnessed a surge in pirates, resulting in countless tragedies and shattered families across the globe. How many nations had suffered attacks from pirates?

Kahn was no outsider to this chaos. He had personally experienced the horrors that pirates brought, and he had seen countless lives ruined. He had also witnessed how pirates, driven by selfish desires, had no regard for the innocent.

The world might believe it needed leaders and reformers, but Kahn knew that pirates weren't the solution.

"Forget it. It's not worth worrying about."

"That's right. As one grows older, they become more disillusioned," he mused.

The group was now approaching the naval base in Loguetown.

This town, situated at the crossroads between the East Blue and the Grand Line, was under the watchful eye of Captain Smoker, the final pupil of Zephyr.

Kahn held a certain level of appreciation for Smoker. Although the latter's record wasn't perfect, his intentions were in the right place.

After all, the adversaries Smoker faced were far from trivial: two Shichibukai—Crocodile and Doflamingo. Although he'd had success early on, like defeating pirates of east blues, his later encounters proved to be more challenging.

Despite this, Kahn still respected Smoker. But at the moment, he was feeling a bit unhappy about seeing him.

The reason was simple.

Kahn had spent the past few days eliminating pirates within a hundred-mile radius. He had expected substantial gains from his efforts, but in the end, the haul was rather disappointing. The reason was that Smoker had already cleared out much of the surrounding pirate presence upon taking charge of the naval base.

As a result, Kahn had raked in over 500 million Berries from his pirate purging spree on the ship. When combined with his earnings from the sea restaurant, his assets had nearly reached one billion Berries.

Sustaining the usual expenses of his system wasn't a concern for now. But for Kahn, this was not enough.

"Vice Admiral Kahn, why are you looking at me like that?" Smoker inquired suspiciously.

Kahn's reaction was one of speechlessness. Was it because Smoker's presence had led to a decrease in the number of pirates, thereby reducing the amount of loot he could secure?

Smoker regarded Kahn's expression with a hint of confusion and dissatisfaction. However, he didn't press the matter further, as he was not particularly familiar with Kahn.

While Kahn's name had receded from the navy's spotlight over the past decade, Smoker still knew of his background. Young Kahn had once been a righteous and formidable navy figure. However, things had changed after certain events.

Though Smoker had sensed that Kahn's circumstances might account for his transformation, he didn't think it was the sole reason behind Kahn's deviation from his original path.

However, this conclusion wasn't merely drawn from the current situation with Smoker; it was based on a broader view.

"When we were young, we possessed ideals. But now, the idealism has faded," Kahn remarked with a wry smile.

Smoker was momentarily taken aback by this candid admission.

"You used to be an idealistic individual, always upholding justice. But in the past decade, all I've heard are negative remarks about Vice Admiral Kahn. Has he forgotten his original intention?" Smoker finally voiced his concerns.

The atmosphere seemed to freeze.

Even Tashigi and others felt the shift and found the pressure stifling.

Kahn remained silent for an extended moment before bursting into laughter.

However, his laughter carried a trace of mockery.

"Smoker, are you preaching to me?"

"I would never dare. I merely have certain doubts," Smoker replied.

"Doubts? Originally, I had a shred of admiration left for you. But it seems that old man Zephyr hasn't taught you anything."

"Why do you say that?"

"The awe of the strong, understanding one's own strength."

Smoker was taken aback by Kahn's words.

Although Smoker was content with his current strength, he felt an undercurrent of dissatisfaction.

"Not convinced?" Kahn's voice carried a hint of disdain.

"While you're my senior, such an assertion does strike a nerve," Smoker retorted, taking a drag of his cigar and exhaling a large smoke ring.

"Irked, are you? I'm suppressing my irritation too. Look at you—Zephyr's disciple, yet your Haki is all over the place. You've learned five out of the six sword styles, and you're jumbling them up."

"No mastery in swordsmanship—your only highlight is the Logia-type Fruit. How well have you developed that?"

"Red Dog, Yellow Monkey, and Green Pheasant—those three have achieved prominence with their fruits, and they're strong. They've even risen to the rank of general. What about you? Captain? Returning to the rank of captain at the East Blue Branch? Is that it? Do you need me to teach you?" Kahn's words dripped with disdain.

"And do you know one more thing? I had finally quit smoking, but you dare smoke in front of me? That really gets on my nerves!"

If you have no strength, then you are a bastard!

Smoker's face was flushed with embarrassment. Kahn was the first person to openly criticize him in such a manner.

"You're just a veteran who has forgotten his original ideals!" Smoker's frustration turned into anger. How could a veteran who had forsaken justice have any right to lecture him?

However, before Smoker could react further, Kahn's domineering fist landed squarely on him, catching him off guard.

"What justice? Allow me to demonstrate to you what justice truly is!"

"Geppo!"

Before Smoker could process the situation, Kahn was already before him, his imposing foot descending upon Smoker's chest.

The sheer force sent a jolt of pain through Smoker's body.

Disbelief painted Smoker's features. His Logia-type powers, which he took pride in, were rendered powerless in the face of Kahn's domineering.

Though he didn't want to give up easily, Smoker knew he had to fight back. His Seastone jitte, an H2O-style weapon, swung toward Kahn's foot in a swift motion.

A sardistic smile curved Kahn's lips.

His Haki-covered right foot absorbed the impact as he released Smoker and delivered a crushing kick onto the Seastone jitte.

In an instant, the weapon snapped.

Kahn wasn't idle either. His right hand shot out like lightning, clasping around Smoker's throat and lifting him off the ground.

Smoker struggled to smoke, but the overwhelming pressure from Kahn's grasp left him powerless.

"With your current strength, you dare talk to me about justice?" Kahn's tone dripped with disdain.

The disparity in strength between the two was staggering. Smoker's smoke fruit was rendered ineffective against Kahn's domineering.

Kahn's grip on Smoker's throat tightened, causing his face to turn red. His cigar fell from his mouth as he struggled.

Kahn stamped on the fallen cigar, mirroring the crushing of Smoker's pride.

"I've heard that I quit smoking, yet you continue to smoke," Kahn noted with a chuckle.

Smoker was left fuming, humiliated and powerless. Kahn's strength was beyond his comprehension.

"Vice Admiral Kahn, what's happening?" Tashigi exclaimed, flabbergasted.

The altercation had transpired in a matter of moments, catching the crew off guard.

It wasn't so much a battle as a one-sided demonstration of power.

Perhaps prompted by Tashigi's question, Kahn's emotions surged briefly. The encounter had triggered memories he would rather forget.

With that, he released Smoker.

"Smoker, now you understand what justice is. Your notion of justice is impotent before my fist. It lacks strength and substance, amounting to mere bluster. The barks of the powerless. If you wish to uphold justice, your fist must surpass your adversary's. As for me, until your strength eclipses mine, don't speak to me about justice. You're far from qualified."

Smoker fell silent in response.

Kahn, having said his piece, paid no further heed to Smoker.

"Pochi, let's go."

"Yes, Vice Admiral Kahn."

Kahn's party moved away, leaving the scene.

Tashigi hastened over. "Captain Smoker, are you okay?"

Smoker didn't reply, his gaze fixed on Kahn's retreating figure, his expression a mix of displeasure and contemplation.

Kahn's words had imparted a truth to him: "Fist is justice."

However, it was a truth he refused to acknowledge. He couldn't accept such a skewed version of justice.

"Damn old man!"

"CAPTAIN Smoker!"

Tashigi's call snapped him out of his reverie.

Eventually, he regained his composure.

Seeing him regain his focus, Tashigi sighed in relief.

"Captain Smoker, who was that Vice Admiral Kahn? I've never heard of him."

"A veteran who's lost his heart for justice, but he did hit upon one truth."

Tashigi was intrigued. "Which is?"

"That to establish the justice you believe in, you must possess great strength. Damn old man. One day, I'll surpass him."

Kahn and his group continued walking, their expressions unchanged.

At that moment, Kahn's thoughts drifted to money-making schemes, his recent altercation no longer holding sway over his mind.

As for the recent events, Kahn brushed them off easily. After all, he had experienced something similar himself. In the end, without strength, one was nothing but a nobody.

Meanwhile, a cloaked figure appeared, obstructing Kahn's path.

"Who are you? Why are you blocking us?" Pochi demanded.

"Pochi, step back."

"Yes, Vice Admiral Kahn."

Kahn regarded the figure before him, surprise briefly flashing in his eyes before morphing into an inscrutable smile.

"Aren't you afraid that I'll apprehend you?" he quipped.

"I trust you won't. But the naval captain must have gleaned your intent."

"I'm not concerned with that. It's just that you're so free. Could it be you're looking for something?"

The cloaked man didn't respond verbally, but his gaze shifted past Kahn to Pochi and the others behind him.

The cloak obscured his features, preventing Pochi and the crew from discerning his appearance.

"Pochi, you all go on ahead. I'll catch up."

"Yes, Vice Admiral Kahn."

Without hesitation, Pochi led the sailors away.

Once they were gone, the cloaked man spoke.

"Let's get to the point. I'm short on time, and every minute is valuable. I don't have time to chat idly with you. Dragon."

Indeed, the individual who had appeared was Dragon, the leader of the Revolutionary Army and Garp's son.

Dragon was slightly taken aback by Kahn's abruptness.

"What's the meaning of this?"

But he quickly regained his composure.

"Vice Admiral Kahn, I'll be direct. I want to extend an invitation for you to join the Revolutionary Army."

As he finished speaking, Dragon eyed Kahn with a hopeful expression.

In Dragon's view, Kahn's recent behavior indicated that he was weary of the Celestial Dragons' rule and deeply disappointed with the Navy. It seemed he was fed up with the higher echelons of the Navy, unlike his own father.

Hence, Dragon anticipated that Kahn might be receptive. Although he had approached him before, the timing hadn't been right.

Now, with Kahn revealing such formidable strength, Dragon was even more eager to win him over.

Furthermore, if the venture failed, it wouldn't be a loss.

"Are you joking? I'm a Navy man. Why would I join the Revolutionary Army?"

"Our cause needs individuals like Vice Admiral Kahn who have justice at their core. With more such individuals, we can overthrow the rule of the Celestial Dragons and make the world a better place."

Dragon's smile was brimming with confidence.

Kahn, however, rolled his eyes at the proposition.

"Don't worry about it. I'm not interested."

Dragon's expression shifted to a slight frown.

"Mr. Kahn, have you truly considered it? The world needs you."

"I'm old. I just want to enjoy my life."

"Then why did Vice Admiral Kahn conceal his strength? Why did he choose to reveal it? How could someone who could wound the world's greatest swordsman want to retire so easily?"

Kahn was taken aback.

It seemed his secret identity had been uncovered.

But he had expected as much.

He chuckled, allowing Dragon to speak before he intervened.

First talk about salary.. then cooperation!!!

Kahn's gaze turned back to Dragon.

Had Dragon's invitation been extended due to his prowess?

Why hadn't he been approached earlier?

Was Dragon trying to present him a final flourish of brilliance before making him fading into obscurity?

Heh, perhaps he was overthinking it.

Was the Revolutionary Army truly a beacon of virtue?

In its fledgling days, there had been instances of unchecked violence, resulting in lives lost and vengeance denied. However, in recent times, the organization had made strides toward moderation and rectitude.

Every coin has its two sides.

Kahn's true concern, however, lay in the fact that joining the Revolutionary Army would hardly provide an easy life.

This path didn't align with his aspirations.

"Aren't you concerned that I might turn against the Revolutionary Army?"

"You won't."

"How can you be so certain?"

Dragon's silence spoke volumes.

And yet, there was an undeniable sense of confidence in his eyes.

Kahn's lips curled into a knowing smile.

"Dragon, permit me to ask you a question."

"Lieutenant General Kahn, please, proceed."

"Does the Revolutionary Army offer monetary compensation?"

Dragon found the query unexpected, struggling to comprehend Kahn's interest in financial matters.

His answer was measured: "Yes."

Kahn's intrigue deepened.

"For how long?"

Dragon felt this was missing the point.

Why would a man of Kahn's stature concern himself with money?

"Mr. Kahn, I believe you're disillusioned with the World Government. The grip of the Celestial Dragons has held the world captive for far too long. The restoration of equity and liberty is long overdue."

"Wait! You've yet to address my initial question."

Dragon's brow furrowed slightly.

The conversation had taken an unexpected turn.

"Our Revolutionary Army requires funding for myriad initiatives. Hence, members typically contribute their resources. The pursuit of a world that's just and unshackled has a value beyond measure."

"So, there's no formal salary structure?"

Dragon briefly faltered in his response.

Strictly speaking, there wasn't.

Even the simplest meal necessitated accounting.

After all, they were a revolutionary army, and discipline was paramount. Without it, how could they succeed?

Yet self-funding wasn't an obstacle.

"Since there's no salary, it's merely a philosophical debate."

Dragon looked taken aback.

Even with the collective intellect of three generations, he struggled to grasp Kahn's line of reasoning.

He even wondered if he'd misjudged Kahn entirely.

"Why does a man of your stature concern himself with these matters?" Dragon inquired, finally.

"Common sense, really. Without these pursuits, what's the essence of life? Let me ask you: what do equity and liberty truly entail?"

"Isn't it self-evident? The absence of tyranny by the Celestial Dragons, the eradication of oppressive rule, the removal of despised Heavenly Gold—ushering in an era of happiness for all."

"Alright, let's accept your definition. Assuming the Celestial Dragons were overthrown, their tyranny eliminated—would people find happiness without money? After all, without means, they can't even afford food. So, what constitutes genuine happiness? Moreover, isn't your 'Heavenly Gold' simply another form of currency? So, what's amiss about my attachment to wealth?"

Dragon found himself without a retort.

He wrestled with finding a counterargument, but ultimately, he couldn't.

Kahn's smile persisted.

"Dragon, if our viewpoints differ, I won't join the Revolutionary Army."

Given recent events, it was clear that inviting Kahn into the Revolutionary Army might not be the most prudent course.

"Understood. It's unfortunate," Dragon conceded.

"It's good to have clarity. Although the Navy has its flaws, it still upholds justice. I won't be severing that bond."

Kahn's response was a blend of truth and artifice. A lifelong Navy man like him couldn't entirely forsake his connection. Moreover, his claim of fighting for justice was something of an exaggeration.

Dragon chose not to press further. The matter had seemingly reached its conclusion, and though he felt a pang of regret, he acknowledged it was an attempt worth making.

"However, if you were to offer me tens of billions of Berries, I might reconsider."

Dragon: "???"

"Mr. Kahn, you do possess a sense of humor!"

"I'm not jesting. But are you?"

Dragon's brow furrowed slightly.

If tens of billions of Berries were truly on the table, he would channel them into the revolutionary cause rather than offering them to Kahn.

"Understand that I'm not uninterested. It's simply that your offer isn't up to my price," Kahn noted, feigning disappointment.

If Dragon were genuinely willing to offer him tens of billions of Berries to join, he might consider it.

Dragon found himself utterly speechless.

He almost felt compelled to ask, are you truly worth that much?

In the end, though, it shed light on Kahn's character.

In that moment, commotion arose on the nearby square.

"Dragon, it seems your son is on the brink of execution."

"How could someone who champions freedom end up like this?"

On the square, Buggy the Clown raised his butcher's knife.

The young man with the straw hat maintained his serene smile.

"I'm prepared to meet my end!"

The tranquility of his demeanor rattled Smoker.

Below the execution platform, Zoro and his comrades valiantly engaged Buggy's crew.

The situation was dire.

Suddenly, a peal of thunder sounded, toppling the execution scaffold.

The young man in the straw hat was saved in an instant.

Kahn was taken aback by the unexpected turn of events.

He had been focusing on Dragon and hadn't sensed any ability activation.

"Your ability is truly extraordinary," Kahn remarked.

As the one defying the World Government, Dragon's might was indeed exceptional.

It marked a stark departure from a decade ago.

"Perhaps you're overestimating me, Lieutenant General Kahn."

"Very well, let's leave it at that. I won't apprehend this young man today. Nevertheless, there are still other pirates to capture. After all, I'm still a part of the Navy."

Of course, he uttered this with the knowledge that Dragon was present and would prevent the capture from happening.

Furthermore, these "leeks" hadn't fully matured; it was premature to harvest them.

Kahn then observed that the branch's personnel had already detained several pirates.

In a blink, he vanished from view.

It was all about the money!

In a short span, all loose ends were tied up.

Departing from Logue Town, Kahn approached the cell aboard the warship.

Gazing at the figure of Buggy before him, he chuckled.

"Who might you be? Don't think you can hold me! I'm the future ruler of the Grand Line!"

"Buggy, it's been thirty years, but your bravado remains the same."

"Who's calling me uncle?"

And thus, Buggy came face to face with Kahn.

"Come closer, let me have a proper look at you. Wait, why do you seem familiar?"

"Wait no more, you've remembered correctly! Tell me, where's your concealed treasure? You only get one chance, and trust me, I'm known for being decisive!"

Buggy gazed in horror at the man before him.

In his current predicament, he'd likely be torn to shreds if not for the Sea-Prism Stone handcuffs restraining him.

"It's over, it's all over. How did I cross paths with this executioner? Pirates who fall into his clutches suffer an unimaginable fate!"

Five Elders wants to see me?

Kahn's expression turned into a frown.

"I believe I didn't ask that question."

Bucky's composure crumbled.

"Just ahead lies a small island where all my treasures are stored."

"How much are we talking about?"

"About 500 million Berries."

"What a letdown. If it's only 500 million, it hardly seems you are worth sparing for."

Bucky's fear intensified as Kahn's cold words pierced through him.

"I might have misspoken. It's closer to 800 million Berries."

"So, you deceived me earlier, and now it's just 800 million?" Kahn's voice dripped with frost.

As Kahn's chilling aura enveloped Bucky, the pirate was on the verge of tears.

"Actually, I recall better now. It's around 1.135 billion Berries in total. I swear, that's all I have."

Kahn felt that this adjustment hardly made a significant difference. The murderous intent that had emanated from him instantly dissipated, replaced by a genial smile.

"Dear Bucky, it's been decades, and I'm genuinely touched by your warm gesture of offering me such a substantial sum upon our reunion. And oh, your nose is still as rosy as ever—quite cute!"

"Pochi, release Bucky at once."

"But, Lieutenant General Kahn, he's a pirate!"

"Ah, indeed."

Kahn turned his attention to Bucky.

"In that case, endure the discomfort of the handcuffs for a bit."

Bucky was utterly bewildered by this turn of events—had this man, the Grim Reaper of his memory, suddenly turned into a compassionate soul? He even seemed to overlook the comment about his reddened nose.

Kahn paid him no further attention and instructed Pochi, "Proceed to the coordinates he provided. I'll rest for a while and be called when we arrive."

"Yes, Lieutenant General Kahn."

With a pleased expression, Pochi led Bucky away.

Pochi had overheard Bucky's revelation about more than a billion Berries being located on the upcoming small island. As per Kahn's rules, the crew could expect to divide about 100 million among themselves.

Could Pochi possibly feel anything but elation? answer is NO.

"Was that Lieutenant General Kahn just now?" Bucky suddenly inquired.

"Yes, indeed. Do you have any queries?"

"No, none at all."

Meanwhile, in Kahn's office, he was in high spirits.

Who would have guessed that Bucky possessed such a significant fortune?

Could it be that he truly was the lucky bearer of the Conqueror's Haki?

Kahn, however, didn't delve into it further; the matter held little relevance to him.

As his thoughts were wandering , the office atmosphere rise his spirits.

Unexpectedly, he'd managed to acquire such a substantial sum.

Perhaps fortune had favored him again.

As he prepared to enter the Grand Line, the East Blue seemed merely an appetizer.

And even so, Kahn had amassed a staggering three billion Berries.

A decent haul, indeed.

Considering the impending pirate activity within the Grand Line, the spoils stood to be even grander.

Kahn imagined the splendid scene of endless transactions and purchases he could indulge in.

"Report, Lieutenant General Kahn. Fleet Admiral Sengoku is on the line."

Kahn's brow furrowed.

Sengoku had rarely reached out to him before. Oddly enough, during this period, Kahn seemed to have become a point of focus.

Though he answered the call, Kahn felt a bit perturbed by the frequency of their interactions.

The voice on the other end confirmed his suspicions—it was indeed Sengoku.

"Moses Moses! Is that you, Kahn?"

"What is it this time?"

"Is the commotion in the East Blue connected to you?"

"After all that's transpired, and you still ask in such a roundabout manner," Kahn responded, his tone tinged with exasperation.

"Is that truly you?" Sengoku's voice reflected astonishment.

"You seem rather uncertain."

"Kahn, explain the situation."

"I simply happened upon a Devil Fruit and decided to partake. Nothing more."

"Kahn, don't insult my intelligence. How could the Devil Fruit you consumed be this powerful?"

"Ah, but that's where you're mistaken. I am a lucky old man!"

Sengoku's silence stretched.

He seemed to be reining in his temper.

When he spoke again, it was with more composure. "Kahn, I don't fully comprehend the circumstances, nor am I inclined to pry. However, remember your position."

"Understood. I see no need for further lectures. I've merely grown a bit stronger."

Sengoku's patience appeared to wane.

"By when can we expect your return?"

"I cannot specify. As you're aware, I've been away for some time."

"Return as soon as possible. Five Elders wishes to meet you."

"Those old men? What business do they have with me? Do they intend to stir up trouble?"

"Kahn, remember your place and mind your words."

"Thank you, Sengoku. I appreciate your enduring patience throughout these years."

Sengoku's frustration seemed to quell at Kahn's response.

"They're merely inquisitive about your current situation. There's no reason for concern. Your hypersensitivity isn't necessary."

"Understood. We'll discuss it further upon my return."

With that, Kahn disconnected the call promptly.

"I wonder if they're intrigued by my newfound strength—testing the waters to gauge whether I warrant their attention or should be eliminated."

Kahn sneered, recalling his past.

Three decades ago, he had been on the cusp of the pinnacle, merely one step away from achieving the highest level of power—though admittedly, that step had been a significant leap.

With his uncanny insights into major pirate activities, Kahn had been instrumental in the Navy's repeated victories. Even Garp, Zephyr, and the other senior officers held him in high regard. Such was his influence that even Sengoku and Zephyr couldn't rival his prestige.

Indeed, Kahn had soared to the position of Chief of the General Staff, a role that, in the present day, Tsuru occupied.

Ironically, Tsuru had been something of a fangirl during Kahn's prime.

At the time, Kahn had been brimming with confidence, believing he could effortlessly conquer the world sans cheats.

Then he encountered a Dragon.

Upon arrival in this world, Kahn had intentionally evaded the Celestial Dragons.

His rationale was simple—encountering those despicable beings would invariably lead to trouble.

And history had proven him right.

During a mission to apprehend pirates, Kahn had come face to face with a Celestial Dragon who ruthlessly took the lives of children. If his subordinates hadn't intervened, Kahn would have slain the villain on the spot.

This event marked a turning point in his life.

The Celestial Dragons had initially sought Kahn's execution, but he was shielded by his towering reputation within the Navy, along with his esteemed comrades, such as Steel Bone Kong, Garp, and Zephyr. The high-ranking officers understood that prosecuting Kahn would lead to severe repercussions, even with the Five Elders involved.

Ultimately, Kahn was stripped of his positions and titles within the Navy Headquarters. His records were sealed, and he was demoted to the rank of a branch colonel.

The fabricated narrative attributed Kahn's fall from grace to a physical ailment.

Gradually, the scandal subsided, and with the passage of three decades, most within the Navy remained unaware of Kahn's identity.

This explained why Tashigi recognized his combat style but not the man behind it.

(End of this chapter)

Chapter 20: Do you look down on me?

Kahn's encounter with the Celestial Dragon had profoundly altered his perspective. It had dawned on him that in this world, power was paramount. Yet, he still possessed a medium strength at the time, allowing him to avoid a fate of either fleeing or perishing as a powerless individual.

This realization marked the end of his naive idealism, thrusting him into a semi-retired state. It wasn't until a decade ago that Kahn resumed his post as a Navy vice admiral.

However, this time he operated with a more tranquil approach. His choice to remain in the Navy stemmed from the security it provided under the umbrella of powerful protection. Given his extensive history of subduing pirates, the Navy was an oasis of safety for him.

Furthermore, leaving the Navy might not have guaranteed escape from the watchful eye of the World Government.

One might question why, as transmigrated person, they held onto ideals despite knowing the world's ruthless nature. The answer was simple: personal experience. Real interactions with people, not just characters from an anime, elicited genuine emotions. When someone steps forward to shield you from harm, it leaves an indelible impact.

This was precisely why Kahn had engaged Smoker.

In addition, he lacked any "golden finger" advantages, leaving him to rely solely on his own abilities. Rejecting this path would have led to a far grimmer fate. Within the Navy, he had strong backing—similar to the protection provided by the Sengoku. It afforded him a comfortable existence. Though over time, these favors were nearly exhausted.

Thankfully, that was no longer a concern.

"Report to Lieutenant General Kahn, we have arrived. Please provide instructions."

Pochi's voice from outside the door brought Kahn back to the present.

Kahn's lips curled into a smile. "Bring Buggy along. Let's go take a look."

"Yes, Lieutenant General Kahn!"

"Now that I have true power, I shall live for myself. This time, no one can manipulate my destiny. Before facing the Five Elders, however, I must continue to bolster my strength.

I don't believe anyone can deceive me by claiming they grasp my situation. Those old men's faces have been etched into my memory countless times."

The small island appeared on the horizon.

Kahn's brows knitted. "Buggy , where's your treasure?"

"It's right here," Buggy answered, still wary of Kahn's presence.

"Remember the consequences of deceiving me."

"I'm well aware."

"Very well, lead the way."

Half an hour later, Kahn observed the treasure before him, breaking into a satisfied smile. He retrieved a cigar and, after a deep drag, relished the sensation. However, his contentment was fleeting.

"It's all Smoker's fault that I can't kick this habit. I've made up my mind to thrash him when I next encounter him."

"Buggy , would you like one?" Kahn extended a cigar to Buggy .

"No, thank you."

"Are you underestimating me?"

"No!"

"Do you want one?"

"Yes!"

"Exactly."

As Buggy took a puff under Kahn's scrutiny, the cigar's pungent aroma caused him to cough.

"I never realized enjoyment could be this intense!"

Observing Buggy's reaction, Kahn's gaze became more intense.

Pochi interjected, "Lieutenant General Kahn, we've completed the inventory."

Kahn's brow furrowed.

"Buggy , have you been idiot? It's not prudent to place all your eggs in a single basket."

Buggy 's spirit crumbled, leaving him speechless.

"Pochi, are you finished tallying?"

Kahn paid no heed to Buggy 's despondency.

"Lieutenant General Kahn, the total worth of these treasures is 1.13 billion Berries."

"Round numbers. Excellent."

Kahn turned to face Buggy .

"However, I seem to recall you mentioning 1.135 billion Berries."

Observing Kahn's smile, Bucky's heart raced with terror.

"Because five million Berries were aboard my previous pirate ship."

"Pochi, is that accurate?"

"Report, Lieutenant General Kahn. We did, in fact, retrieve nearly six million Berries from the pirate ship."

"I see. Though there's a minor discrepancy, it's manageable. You've passed the test."

Buggy breathed a sigh of relief, his soul returning to his body.

Tears welled in his eyes as he gazed at the boxes of treasures being carted away. This wealth was the fruit of years of labor—a testament to his ambition to dominate the Grand Line. Yet, it had all vanished.

"This was all mine!"

"What was that?"

"I mean, it's my pleasure to offer it to you."

Kahn nodded, content with the answer.

Looking at Buggy , it was hard for Kahn to envision this boy becoming one of the Four Emperors in the future. Yet appearances could deceive; Buggy was not above committing heinous acts.

His actions had once led to the displacement of an entire town.

Such actions were unforgivable in Kahn's eyes.

"Pochi, see to it that everything is tallied."

Kahn shifted his attention to Buggy .

"But my treasure is gone!"

"Very well. Let's go. Our stay in the East Blue has been sufficiently long. It's time to enter the Grand Line."

"Lieutenant General Kahn, what about Buggy the Clown? Are we merely letting him go?"

A glimmer of hope flickered in Buggy 's eyes, only to be swiftly extinguished.

"Pochi, do you understand what you're saying? This man is a pirate. When has the Navy ever released pirates? Where is the justice in your heart?" Kahn chided.

Pochi blinked, perplexed.

"Is something wrong?"

"No, Lieutenant General Kahn!"

"Good. Proceed and escort him away."

"Yes, Lieutenant General Kahn!"

"Wait."

Pochi halted.

"According to the customary practice, don't forget to reserve my share."

Pochi's expression froze.