Whiskey's Farewell, Bound for the Grand Line

The repairs on the White Shell were nearly complete.

The damaged side of the hull had been seamlessly patched up and coated with waterproof tung oil.

The entire ship looked much sturdier now.

Near the harbor, beneath a shaded eave.

Lin Nuo, Stockton, and Milan sat on the ground, with several cups of water and some simple provisions laid out before them.

Their discussion about the Moon People and ancient history had temporarily come to an end.

The conversation had unknowingly shifted to more practical matters.

"...So those bubble-headed Celestial Dragons are nothing more than parasites living off their ancestors' legacy."

Stockton took a bite of bread, his tone indignant.

Lin Nuo gulped down some water and grinned.

"Looking on the bright side, money will definitely be the first problem when I build my own force someday."

"When the time comes."

He made a gesture.

"The World Government is loaded, so I'll go to the Sabaody Archipelago, kidnap some Celestial Dragons, and squeeze a few hefty ransoms out of them."

Stockton was stunned by his money-making logic, then could not help bursting into laughter.

"Mr. Lin Nuo, how can that be called extortion? That is clearly, um..."

"The recovery of illegally obtained assets! Yes, that's it!"

Milan laughed as well, and the atmosphere relaxed considerably.

Just then, a "bulu bulu" ringing sound came from Lin Nuo's pocket.

He took out a pink Transponder Snail.

The Transponder Snail mimicked Ginny's playful expression. "Brother Lin Nuo, the ship has been completely repaired!"

"Everyone's here, waiting for you by the harbor!"

"Got it, I'm coming right away." Lin Nuo answered and hung up.

He stood up and dusted himself off. Stockton and Milan rose with him.

"You two," Lin Nuo said, extending his right hand, "this is where we part ways."

"May your