The lady nodded. "This invention means a great deal to humanity.
Mr. Tom is a craftsman worthy of respect."
The old man turned, his gaze settling on the towering figure who had been the last to disembark.
He was a Fish-Man, his skin gleaming deep blue in the sunlight.
"I witnessed the Sea Train with my own eyes,"
the old man raised his voice enough for everyone around him to hear clearly, "and it can only be called a miracle.
It will not only change this city's fate, but affect the entire world."
The dock fell silent.
The boys held their breath, the watching craftsmen stood silent, and the witnesses from the Family stood motionless as well.
The old man cleared his throat and announced each word distinctly:
"As of today, the charge against you for building a ship for the Pirate King is hereby dismissed."
Cheers erupted.
"Yes!"
Two young figures rushed forward, and the Fish-Man craftsman spread his arms and pulled them into a firm embrace.
A deep laugh rumbled out of his chest. "A man should hold his head high and face what he created with his own hands! But-"
He released his apprentices, approached the two Family members who had remained at the front of the crowd, and bowed his head deeply.
"Without your support, forget one year... I might not have finished it even in ten.
I will never forget this kindness."
The blond one's lips curled. "Of course we should build more of such a convenient means of transportation."
His black-haired companion continued, "We plan to lay routes connecting the nearby islands.
Mr. Tom, would you be willing to oversee this project?"
This time, the Fish-Man craftsman did not hesitate. He lifted his face and nodded firmly.
A sticky laugh stretched through the air,