Two Devil Fruits, Ginny's Choice

Yesterday evening.

Inside the White Shell's cabin.

Alice, Ginny, and Ivankov listened intently as Big Bear recounted his experiences on Drum Island.

How they found the witch, saved the villagers, how Lin Nuo stormed the royal castle alone, and finally bid farewell to the two peculiar doctors—

"Wow! That's amazing!"

Ginny cupped her face in both hands, her eyes sparkling.

"You actually saved an entire country! And that witch doctor who lived for over a hundred years! I really want to meet her! Too bad I couldn't go with you..."

Ivankov danced excitedly as well. "That was absolutely wonderful!"

While everyone was chatting.

Alice noticed that Lin Nuo, who sat across from them, was listening too and occasionally chimed in.

Yet he seemed rather unhappy.

"Lin Nuo," Alice said softly, "what's wrong? Is there still some trouble left unresolved?"

Everyone's gaze immediately focused on Lin Nuo.

Lin Nuo froze for a moment, then waved his hand and forced a smile. "Huh? No, no. Everything's been settled."

"It's just..."

He sighed, and his wings drooped as well.

"It's just a little unfortunate. I made the trip intending to see whether there were any Devil Fruits left behind on the island, but... I didn't find a single one."

At those words, Moria, seated in the shadows, shifted his eyes.

But he merely raised his cup, took a sip of water, and said nothing.

Understanding, Alice spoke gently. "Even though you didn't find any Devil Fruits, that bag of gems you brought back can still be exchanged for plenty of Beli."

"And besides, you met the people you wanted to see on the island and did so many meaningful things."

"Yeah, Brother Lin Nuo! Don't be discouraged!" Ginny leaned closer as well.

"There'll be plenty of chances in the future!"

Lin Nuo looked