After testing it for a while, Ruri Chie beamed with delight.
"It's much easier to use than my short sword. I think I've gotten stronger."
Werther could see that Ruri Chie could wield Masamune, so he tossed her its sheath.
"This sword is yours."
Ruri Chie could hardly believe it.
"Really? It's a Great Grade Sword. You're really giving it to me? I feel bad accepting such a precious gift."
Despite what she said, Ruri Chie hugged the sheathed Masamune tightly to her chest.
"Oh? If you feel bad, you can give it back."
Ruri Chie's little face fell at once.
"Th-then... all right."
Werther gave Ruri Chie a helpless look. She was unexpectedly endearing in her cluelessness.
"I'm joking. I don't take back gifts."
Ruri Chie brightened again and ran off clutching Masamune, as though afraid Werther might change his mind.
"Werther, we've known each other a long time. Shouldn't you give me a little something too...?"
Tillman leaned his wrinkled face toward Werther, grinning slyly.
"You old man. Weren't the KOJO Gas Bombs I gave you precious enough? Given the size of Wano Country, two at most should do it. You can keep the rest."
Tillman's grin widened until his deeply lined face nearly folded in on itself.
"Red-Haired, let's see how many more people you can throw into this war."
Werther set down his utensils. Pain throbbed through his back, and a smile slowly spread across his face.
Tillman shook his head. He had seen Werther's madness for himself. When Werther had challenged Kaido, Tillman had known this young Great Swordsman was a madman. That was why he had always wanted to work with Werther.
After all, the Beasts Pirates were just as mad.
In wartime, time passed quickly. That was how it felt to Werther.