One Piece: Invincible from the Start

"Huh! Is that so?"

Kuta took out his Wine Gourd and pushed it toward the owner.

"In that case, could I trouble you to fill this with your strongest liquor—and give me a discount?"

"A discount?"

The old man looked at the Wine Gourd in confusion, then his expression turned stern.

"Don't even think about it, brat. Even Roger paid full price here. You're a hundred years too early to ask for a discount!"

"Oh..."

Kuta instantly slumped over the counter, as though all the life had drained out of him.

He looked at the old man and muttered, "You seemed so impressed with me just a moment ago. So it was all a lie!"

He had thought quoting Roger, then King Luffy, would at least earn him a discount on his drinks!

"All right, kid. Since I'm in such a good mood today, I'll treat you to a drink!"

As he spoke, he took two glasses from behind the counter and filled them.

He pushed one toward Kuta.

"What's the matter, kid? This is the best liquor I've got!"

The old man smiled.

"You think you'd get to taste this if I weren't in a good mood today? Stop slumping over the counter. Let's have a toast!"

Hearing that it was good liquor—the very best, at that—Kuta instantly perked up.

He quickly reached for the glass, his face breaking into a smile.

He raised it and clinked glasses with the old man.

"To adventure, and to the Grand Line."

The old man declared loudly, "To Pirate King Roger!"

"Cheers!"

"Hahahaha..."

"Hehehehe..."

Gulp, gulp...

On the road to the Execution Platform in Loguetown's central square.

Kuta carried a large

jar of liquor on his back as he walked onward, his face flushed red.

"That old man's a pretty good