The Day I Came to Take You In

Water 7's southeastern district, a three-story waterfront mansion.

On the surface, it was a vacation residence belonging to a wealthy merchant. In reality, it was a secret Base used by Kardore, the owner of Giant Wave Shipyard, to entertain "distinguished guests."

There was a private dock behind the mansion, with waterways leading in every direction.

At that moment, the atmosphere in the first-floor hall was oppressive.

Kardore, the bald owner of Giant Wave Shipyard, was reporting in a trembling voice.

"...S-Silver Axe, that's what happened."

"The batch of Adam we hid on Shipwreck Island... was all taken."

"They moved too fast. By the time we got the news, it was already..."

Before him, seated in a broad chair, was a man—

"A former officer of the Rocks Pirates."

"Silver Axe Xiong."

His eyes were hidden behind sunglasses bearing an X-shaped pattern, and he had short white hair.

Even seated, his enormous frame was obvious.

Silver Axe wore a sleeveless vest, his exposed arms and chest covered in runes. A battle axe as tall as a man rested beside his chair.

He did not answer immediately. Only after Kardore had finished did he slowly speak.

"Do you know who did it?"

"N-No, I don't..."

"But I suspect Tom's Shipyard may have joined forces with someone... They're the only ones who have shown signs of resistance lately."

Kardore spoke cautiously.

Just then, the doors to the hall were violently thrown open.

Babel strode in, radiating scorching heat, his expression ugly.

His wide fish mouth panted heavily. Clearly, his anger had yet to subside.

"Babel?"

Xiong turned his sunglasses toward him.

"How did you end up looking like that?"

"Don't mention it!" Babel grabbed the wine jug from the table, took several huge gulps, and wiped his mouth.

"Guess who I ran into?