"?" Buggy looked confused. "What do I need these people for?"
Hiko revealed an inscrutable smile and lowered his voice. "Think about it. You captured three Pirates from the Worst Generation. Wouldn't that make your name soar throughout the New World? By then, Pirates would come flocking to pledge themselves to a famous figure like you, and the forces under your command would grow ever stronger. From then on, as long as you build and develop properly, it won't be difficult for your forces to become one of the major powers in the New World. Besides, you've been a Warlord for so long—have you ever contributed anything to the Marines? They've probably disliked you for a long time. But if you hand these Pirates over to the Marines, not only can you collect a substantial bounty from them, you might even make them see you in a new light. That way, you'll gain fame, wealth, power, establish ties with the Marines, and make an ally out of me. It's simply a win-win situation in every way!"
After Hiko's patient persuasion, dreamy light immediately burst from Buggy's eyes. One beautiful scene after another seemed to unfold before him, allowing him to see a flawless future.
"Ahem!" Mr. 3 coughed softly beside him, pulling the daydreaming Buggy back to reality.
"Ahem!" Buggy coughed as well and composed himself, but before long, his true nature was exposed. "Hahaha! You're far too polite, giving me such a grand gift the moment we meet. I truly don't deserve it!"
"No, no, you absolutely deserve it!" Hiko said with a smile. "I happen to need your help with something right now... Ahem... Actually, half of it is helping you too. So, to build a good friendship, I'm offering this trifling gift."
"Hm?" Buggy and Mr. 3