Fame and fortune

So even in this frozen world created by Kuzan's power, none of them felt cold.

They returned to the ship and brought down a specially made hot pot. Beneath the bright moon, they sat in a circle on the frozen sea beside the ship and enjoyed their Ice-and-Snow Hot Pot.

Kuta picked up a slice of sea fish chilled on ice, its cool sheen glimmering in the moonlight. He dipped it into the sauce in his small bowl, made with the island's unique spices that Maya had given them, then put it in his mouth, narrowed his eyes, and chewed gently.

Freezing had made the flesh of this deep-sea fish unique to the Grand Line even fresher, crisper, and sweeter. Combined with the distinctive dipping sauce, a single bite was enough to leave anyone lost in its heavenly flavor.

The sea always offered something new. They had caught this fish before arriving at the island.

Since it was another species none of them had seen before, they had unanimously decided to preserve it and savor it once their business on the island was over.

Mm... delicious.

It had not disappointed them.

Kuta opened his eyes and glanced at Kuzan, who stood quietly in the distance.

Standing amid the ice and snow, the man radiated loneliness, a stark contrast to the lively gathering around the hot pot.

He neither left nor approached. Apparently, he was waiting for one of them to come over.

Clearly, he had something to say to that person.

Kuta looked away and turned his gaze to Robin.

"Robin, it looks like our admiral has something to tell you. Why don't you go see what he wants to say?"

Robin set down her chopsticks and gave everyone a faint smile.

Then she slowly rose, turned, and walked toward