Chapter 37: Beasts Pirates Reinforcement Plan

The Grand Line — a sea route accessible from Reverse Mountain, the starting point of the massive wall that divides the world into two: the Red Line.

It’s often called a pirate’s paradise — a place filled with strange islands, unpredictable climates, and unique races found nowhere else. Tales of adventure flow endlessly from its waters. But in the same breath, it's also known as the Pirates' Graveyard.

And for good reason — survival rates are abysmal.

First, when entering the Grand Line, about half fail to scale Reverse Mountain and are swallowed by the sea. At this stage alone, the inexperienced, the unlucky — the ones who can hardly be called pirates—are weeded out.

Then, even if they make it in, the real trouble begins. The usual logic of the seas no longer applies. Normal navigation methods are useless here, and without the proper skills or knowledge, most find themselves lost at sea. Those who lack information, awareness, or simply luck are quickly eliminated.

Only those with a Log Pose — and a seaworthy crew and ship capable of enduring the Grand Line — can truly call themselves pirates and begin the voyage.

But even then, there’s no room for carelessness. Once you set foot in the Grand Line, the strength of everyone around you — pirates, Marines alike — is on a whole other level. After all, anyone who made it here already proved themselves by overcoming Reverse Mountain and the unpredictable sea. That is the Grand Line’s baseline. Every pirate you meet out here is strong enough to survive — a 10 million berry bounty isn’t enough to scare anyone.

To be considered a threat, a pirate needs a bounty of at least 30 to 40 million. And even that won’t impress the heavy-hitters. The so-called “notorious pirates” of the Grand Line’s first half start crossing into the 50 million range — true monsters among men.

And Devil Fruit users, once seen as rare in other seas, are nothing unusual here. They’re still uncommon, sure, but sail the Grand Line for even a year and you’ll likely run into several.

In short, the Grand Line’s true terror lies not just in its weather — but in the high level of enemies one must face.

However, if a pirate survives the first few months, makes it past two or three islands — what once seemed like hell starts to feel like home. They get used to it. They thrive. The voyage becomes smooth sailing. For captains, bounties above 30 million berries become the norm. Their names spread. They’re feared, respected, and they begin to enjoy the pirate life to the fullest.

And naturally… this leads to arrogance. Pirates become cocky. They start to believe they’re the elite among pirates, invincible with no one left to challenge them.

And then, after passing four or five islands on one of the Grand Line’s seven routes, they reach it. That island.

Provided their Log Pose doesn’t get pulled toward another island’s magnetic field… they’ll end up there.

Its name is Keith Island.

A small, tropical island unaffiliated with the World Government, located deep in the Grand Line. Lawless, overrun with pirates and outlaws, and not exactly known for its peace.

But even so, it’s a popular stop — with white beaches, blue seas, fresh seafood, fruit, and drinks. For pirates weary from the journey, it's a welcome resort where they can relax for three days while their Log Pose sets.

And the island lives off of that — its economy built on the money those pirates leave behind. It’s a way of life. A survival strategy.

This is an island that’s found a way to coexist with pirates. And because even pirates need to be entertained, unless they’re complete monsters, they rarely go so far as to actually attack the island.

Yet… the overconfident, arrogant pirates who think they’ve made it — without exception, they get crushed here.

Why?

Because this island is under the control of a certain pirate crew.

---

Keith Island – Bay Port District

This is the first stop for arriving pirates. It’s where ships dock, cargo is unloaded, shipwrights are hired, and local fishermen sweat through their daily work.

Right now, the port is crowded with two groups: those arriving… and those trying to leave.

And the ones trying to leave — after their three-day stay and with their Log Pose set — are caught in a dispute.

“What the hell is a departure fee?!”

“And why the hell is it so high?! A million berries per person?!”

“There’s no way we can pay that!!”

The departing pirates all raise their voices, complaining about the outrageous rule — a million berries per head just to leave the island. But their protests lack force.

Because the man they’re complaining to — sitting calmly in the negotiation area in front of the warehouse — is a giant. Several times their size.

With the word “QUEEN” and a twin-horned skull tattooed on his arm, the man clenches a cigar between his teeth and watches the pirates from behind his sunglasses… before smirking coldly.

“What’s that? Can’t pay~~~? Don’t give me that crap. Your personal problems don’t matter to us. If you want to leave, pay up. Or… why not join our crew? Then I’ll let it slide.”

“Hehehe…”

“Damn it…!”

His answer leaves no room for negotiation. His subordinates sneer, leering at the pirates. The pirates can only shrink back.

Because this man is none other than Queen the Plague, an executive of the Beasts Pirates — the crew currently ruling over Keith Island. His bounty? 1.2 billion berries. A figure rarely seen in this half of the Grand Line — a monster.

Sure, the pirates who made it here aren’t weak either. They’re among the elite. But he — no, they — are monsters among monsters. Winning is out of the question. Fighting? Unthinkable.

During their stay, these pirates had witnessed terrifying beings — bosses whose mere presence inspired dread.

Compared to being slaughtered by creatures like that, a quiet stay and quick departure seemed far more appealing… but this is the price. An outrageous departure fee.

And now they finally realize — these guys never intended to let anyone leave.

Even if you pay, who knows if they’ll actually let you go? And if you don’t pay, they’ll just absorb your entire crew, steal your ship and treasure. Resist… and they’ll crush you.

Understanding this, the leading pirate clenched his trembling fist.

…But then, the strength left his hand. He forced a weak smile, like trying to read Queen’s mood, and stepped forward.

“F-Fine… we’ll join. Just… let us in…”

“Oh, that so? Then hand over your money and your ship, right now. And then—”

“But first... I’m gonna kill you!!!”

With that, the captain drew a dagger from inside his coat and lunged at Queen. But—

“…………”

“Huh…? Gahh!!!?”

“C-Captain!!!”

Without saying a word, Queen caught the captain’s arm without flinching, lifted him effortlessly, and slammed him down onto the hard ground. The crew erupted in disbelief, stunned at how easily their leader had been taken down. In contrast, the members of the Beasts Pirates looked completely unfazed, grinning like this outcome was only natural. Amidst it all, Queen grabbed the bloodied man's head and lifted it up.

“...So you pulled a blade on me. That means you’re ready to die, right?”

“W-Wait…!! I-It’s not like th— Gguhhh!!?”

“Muhaha, what do you mean it’s not like that? ─ Well, whatever. I’m not the kind of guy who gets pissed just 'cause a bunch of nobodies like you waved a knife at me ♪ So I’ll let you off the hook.”

At those words, a faint glimmer of hope crossed the pirates’ faces. …But they quickly realized life wasn’t that kind. The Beasts Pirates surrounding them were already aiming their guns.

“Buuuuut! Your destination... is literally hell!!”

“Wha—!!! GYAAAAAAHHHHHH!!!”

Gunfire and screams echoed through the harbor district. The island’s residents, though hearing everything, pretended not to notice and continued with their work. This was just another day. They couldn’t afford to stop over every little thing. They had their own mouths to feed, and protection fees to pay.

At the edge of this hellish port, Queen took an ice cream cone from one of his men and laughed cheerfully as he licked it.

“Wahaha! Idiots. Like hell I’d save anyone who won’t join the crew or cough up some cash. ─ Hey, you lot. Get their valuables and ship loaded up.”

“Yes, sir. Today is tribute tally day, after all.”

“! Ah, that’s right… Damn, now you’ve reminded me of something awful... Wait, hey? Isn’t it about time? What time is it?”

“Sir! We’re already way past the appointed time.”

“Whaaaaaaaat!!? Then say that first, you moron!!!”

Queen overreacted to the report, yelling as he crammed the rest of his ice cream into his mouth and stood up. But then he suddenly paused, glancing around the port and at his subordinates like something had just occurred to him.

One of his men, confused by his behavior, asked cautiously:

“Umm… sir? You’re not going?”

“...Any signs of trouble? Anyone reporting anything odd?”

“No sir, things are all clear. And the patrol’s just heading out for the next shift…”

“──Then I’ll do the patrol myself today. Might be something strange going on.”

“You’re obviously just stalling!!”

“He totally doesn’t wanna go!!”

“There’s no need, sir.”

“And he got shot down!!!”

Queen kept scanning the area with a smug expression, but finding no excuse to stay, his face twisted into something hard to describe. In short, he looked miserable. One of the men spoke up again:

“I see…”

“Yes. There’s really nothing to report right now, so it would be best if you head off to make your report, Lord Queen…”

“Let something go wrong.”

“Lord Queen!!”

Clearly desperate not to leave, Queen even began wishing for trouble at the port. But after a moment of silence and seeing that there really was nothing going on, he sighed in resignation and trudged off toward the far side of the island, regretting—just a little—how quickly he had dealt with those pirates.

---

── Keith Island, Commercial District.

This was the heart of the island.

The area was bustling—for better or worse—with people, noise, and trade. Market stalls and restaurants lined the streets, offering everything from fresh seafood and fruit to the island’s signature drink, the Keith Cocktail.

But with such activity came danger. The district was known for its rough atmosphere. Still, full-blown chaos was rare. Fights in bars, the occasional stabbing or pickpocketing in the streets—that was the norm.

Nowadays, however, even those incidents had all but vanished. Pirates and locals alike kept their heads down.

The reason was simple: the “Two-Horned Skull” banner flying from the central watchtower. A symbol of the Beasts Pirates’ control.

Every aspect of the island’s economy was under their watch, and every business was required to pay a hefty protection fee each month.

But to their credit, the Beasts Pirates didn’t just collect the fees—they provided actual security. They kept order on the island, acting as enforcers and bodyguards. So, people accepted it. They had no choice. And besides, the streets were safer than ever.

It was a small price to pay, they told themselves. Better to hand over the money than risk drawing the ire of the infamous Beasts Pirates. Compared to them, the average pirate roaming the Grand Line wasn’t even worth worrying about. That’s how powerful the group that lurked on this island had become in everyone’s eyes.

So, if anyone stirred up trouble here, they were brutally crushed—no exceptions. Beaten, tortured, broken in both body and spirit.

And the man in charge of this district—of enforcing payments, settling disputes, and carrying out those punishments—was currently sitting inside a moderately sized restaurant on the main street.

“──Hey. Is this all you’ve got for this month?”

"M-My deepest apologies, King-sama…"

In the VIP section of the restaurant, the massive man sat stiffly on the sofa—burning with rage.

He was a terrifying sight to behold. Dressed entirely in black, his face concealed behind a gas mask-like covering, a massive sword at his right hip. His sharp, upturned eyes gleamed with menace, while black wings and roaring crimson flames erupted from his back.

This was one of the top executives of the Beasts Pirates—"Wildfire" King. With a bounty of 130,000,000 Berries, he was a monster no ordinary pirate could hope to defeat, no matter how many banded together.

And right now, those flames seemed to reflect his fury. Even his own subordinates kept a cautious distance, unnerved by his mood. The island was already scorching hot—but the air around King was practically boiling.

Yet the restaurant owner, currently under King’s withering glare, would’ve been sweating bullets even without the heat. King’s sheer presence was suffocating. All the man could do was bow and beg for forgiveness as he handed over this month’s protection money. King counted the bills before stuffing them into a silver suitcase—

"This is way too fuckin’ light… You do know what happens if ya can’t pay… right…?!"

"G-Gah… Y-Yes, sir!! I-I know… b-but… it’s just…"

King grabbed the owner by the collar, yanking him close. The man looked ready to burst into tears. Even after years of dealing with hardened criminals, he’d never faced anyone this terrifying—and worse, King wasn’t even the most fearsome figure in the crew. Defiance was unthinkable.

But he had to explain. There was a legitimate reason for the shortage.

Perhaps sensing this, King’s glare narrowed slightly, his voice lowering—though the menace remained.

"…Spit it out. If ya got an excuse, let’s hear it."

"Y-Yes, sir! Th-Thank you…! It’s… well, recently, the number of pirates visiting the island has dropped… Business has been slower than last month…"

"…And?"

"S-So… this is all we can manage right now… Any more, and the restaurant won’t stay afloat… P-Please… just this once… give us until next month…!"

"…Hmph."

King exhaled sharply through his nose, easing his grip just a fraction. The owner dared to hope—maybe he’d gotten through?

But he was wrong.

King leaned back into the sofa, his tone almost… reasonable.

"…Fine. I’ll let the shortage slide till next month."

"Y-Yes, sir!! Thank you so much!!"

"But—" King’s voice turned razor-sharp. "Till ya pay up in full next month… I’m takin’ your wife and daughter as collateral.—Hey!!"

"Yes, sir!"

"…W-What?"

At King’s command, his subordinates stormed upstairs—toward the family’s living quarters.

The owner stared blankly for a second—then understood. His face twisted in horror.

"W-Wait!! Please, not that—!!"

"The hell’s the problem? Pay up next month, and ya get ’em back. Relax."

"B-But—!"

—Relax? Impossible.

No one taken by the Beasts Pirates came back unharmed. But voicing that fear? Suicide. King’s logic was twisted, but it was their rule.

He couldn’t let them take his family. Desperation kicked in—

"W-Wait, just a second!!"

"The hell now?"

The owner scrambled to the safe, pulling out emergency funds—the exact difference owed—and thrust it at King.

"I-I’ll pay!! It’ll hurt, but I’ll pay it all now!! Just—just leave my wife and daughter out of— Ghk!!?"**

The money was snatched away—and King’s hand clamped around the owner’s face, lifting him like dried squid. His fingers tightened like a vise, and the man flailed helplessly in midair. King’s voice was pure fury.

"So ya could pay, huh…? Playin’ fuckin’ games with me…?! You deaf or somethin’…?!"

"G-Gah… AAGH!! S-Stop…!!"

"Listen close, shitstain… I’ll say it again—if ya can’t pay… you know what happens!!"**

"GYAAAAAAAAAAAHHH—!!!"

The moment King roared, the owner ignited.

Engulfed in flames, he writhed midair—a living torch. His thrashing was frantic, but King’s grip was iron. No amount of panic could break free.

By the time his body was charred black, smoke pouring from his mouth, King lost interest and hurled him to the floor. Alive or dead didn’t matter—he was useless now.

King turned to the petrified chef trembling nearby.

"—Hey, you."

"E-Eeek!! W-What…?! P-Please, I’ll do anything—just spare me…!!"

The young man was the restaurant’s sous-chef—engaged to the owner’s daughter and a decent cook in his own right. But when it came to dealing with pirates, he was just a slightly skittish civilian.

King addressed him while stowing the money back into the suitcase.

"Starting today, you’re the new owner of this place."

"Huh…? Y-Yes, sir…?"

"I’ll be back next month to collect. Work hard. If you can’t pay the full amount… you’re next."**

"Ghk—!!?"

"Let’s move out."

"Aye, sir!"

The newly appointed owner—formerly the sous-chef—collapsed to his knees, on the verge of tears. There was no joy in his promotion. Only the crushing terror that if he failed to turn a profit by next month, if he couldn’t scrape together the protection money… he’d end up just like his predecessor.

With the collection complete, King and his men stepped outside. His imposing figure drew startled glances from passersby, who quickly averted their eyes. King was used to such fearful reactions—if anything, he welcomed them. Fear meant respect. So he paid no mind, instead listening as one of his subordinates hesitantly spoke up.

"Uh, King-sama…"

"What?"

"Today’s the tally day, but… well, it’s… lower than usual…"

"…I know. Don’t state the obvious."

"M-My apologies!"

King didn’t lash out at the nervous report, nor did he sigh. But a faint gloom settled over him. He’d pushed hard, yet it still wasn’t enough. And he knew exactly what kind of reception awaited him when he delivered the news. But this was his responsibility—he’d have to endure the reprimand.

"You lot, keep patrolling the town. I’ll go make the report."

"Yes, sir… Understood."

"Hmph."

With that curt order, King snorted and headed south—toward the island’s resort district, where the Beasts Pirates’ hideout stood.

---

Kease Island – Resort District

This was the most luxurious, picturesque part of the island.

High-end hotels and gourmet restaurants lined the streets, while pristine white sands and crystal-blue waters stretched along the coast. A paradise for weary travelers.

But the crown jewel—Owaw Beach and its adjoining five-star hotel—now belonged to the Beasts Pirates. The shore was private, devoid of ordinary guests.

Under a parasol on the sand, a young girl lounged in a black bikini, her bob-cut hair loosely tied back. Oversized orange sunglasses shielded her eyes as she sipped a vibrant blue cocktail through a red straw. Nearby, the island’s top bartender and head chef catered exclusively to her—the lobster on her plate was freshly prepared, delivered by trembling hotel staff who usually entertained wealthy tourists.

Every detail here existed for her (and one other’s) indulgence. And since her counterpart was absent, she had the entire paradise to herself. A few crewmates lingered nearby, some eating and chatting—likely because she’d permitted it.

As she speared a forkful of lobster and sighed in delight, her voice was pure leisure.

"Mmm~♡ So good! Ahhh, nothing beats a beach vacation…"

This was Nue, the Beasts Pirates’ Vice-Captain—"Mystical Beast" Nue. A brief respite for someone as busy as her. Even now, she delegated tasks, but some duties required her personal touch.

Which was why she relished these moments—fine dining, top-shelf drinks, and the lap of luxury. A mature indulgence, though her appearance and demeanor screamed carefree youth.

Then—

"—Nue-sama!"

"Hm~? What’s up?"

A subordinate sprinted across the sand. Nue responded without shifting her relaxed posture—a far cry from the demeanor expected of a 481,000,000 Berry bounty criminal.

But no one here dared treat her like just some girl. They knew better. The subordinate cautiously delivered his message.

"King-sama and Queen-sama have arrived!!"

"…Ohh~? Got it. Send ’em over."

"Yes, ma’am!"

For the briefest moment, Nue’s eyes narrowed—but her tone stayed light. King and Queen. Both were Beasts Pirates executives. Both answered to her.

She resumed her meal, unfazed. Soon enough, two massive figures appeared on the beach.

King stepped forward, his voice a low growl.

"Nue. The collection’s done."

“Hey, same here... Check it.”

“Mmm~ Good work~”

With that sugary, melted voice of hers, Nue welcomed King and Queen as they arrived. She took the suitcase from them and began inspecting it. The check took a little while.

During that time, neither King nor Queen said a word. Normally, they’d be at each other’s throats the moment they locked eyes, but right now there wasn’t even a hint of that usual tension.

Instead—it was Nue, done checking the money, who smiled and asked sweetly,

“…Hey, Queeeen? Kiiing?”

“...Y-Yeah.”

“...Right.”

King and Queen, unusually quiet, responded to Nue’s voice. No one else dared speak. They could feel the faint anger hiding beneath her smile.

“The cut this month… isn’t it kinda low?”

She was referring to the island’s monthly agari—the protection fee—and questioned them directly.

There was no mistaking it: she was pissed. For the rest of the crew watching, it was a terrifying sight.

“You do understand what kind of deal we’re about to make, don’t you~?”

“We’re sorry… Miss Nue.”

“Our bad…!”

(King and Queen are getting scolded…)

(Those two… actually getting scolded…)

The subordinates could hardly believe their eyes. King and Queen were monsters who terrified most of the Beasts Pirates crew—but here they were, forced to do nothing but apologize to Nue.

From the outside, it looked like two giant beasts being scolded by a young girl. But for the Beasts Pirates, this was a completely normal scene.

Nue let out a light sigh.

“Well, fine, I guess... I do get that the agari goes down whenever Kaido randomly wrecks part of the town.”

“──HUH!!? What was that, Nue!? You saying I’m the problem!!?”

“! Lord Kaido…!”

Just as Nue brought up the reason behind the lowered take, a towering man appeared on the beach. Horns on his head, a kanabo club in hand—this was none other than the captain of the Beasts Pirates, “Hundred Beasts” Kaido. He ruled this island.

With a bounty of 611 million berries, he was easily one of the top pirates in the first half of the Grand Line.

Kaido, reacting to a single comment from his sworn sister Nue, looked visibly irritated—but Nue, far from backing down, faced him head-on and countered:

“I mean, if it’s just to make an example, sure. But if you go around wrecking the town more than necessary, of course the agari drops! That’s why I keep telling you—leave the rampaging to us! But you always end up drunk and causing damage everywhere…!”

“I drink when I wanna drink! I wreck stuff when I wanna wreck stuff! What’s so bad about that!? It’s just a little, right!?”

“It’s never just a little! That’s why I’m telling you off! ──Haaah… Anyway, got it? If you’re gonna keep going on your little rampages, we’ve got to work even harder collecting the agari!”

“…Yeah.”

“…Got it.”

King and Queen averted their eyes and nodded reluctantly. The last thing they wanted was to get caught in a fight between Captain Kaido and Vice-Captain Nue.

But it seemed—even Kaido realized, at least this time, that he was in the wrong. He flopped down on the sand and started drinking in silence. Seeing that, Nue let out another sigh, then turned back to King and Queen with a real smile this time.

“Well, that’s the end of that! Sorry for yelling~ Wanna eat something, you two? It’s really good!”

“…I’m good.”

“…Already ate.”

“Ehh? You’re both so cold. Well, I guess I get it, with training coming up. But still, food helps build strength, you know. Nom, munch, gulp…”

As she spoke, Nue crunched through the shell of a lobster she’d already eaten. The cracking noise was jarring coming from a young girl’s mouth. The crew watched with hard-to-define expressions as she finally downed a cocktail, stood up, and announced:

“──Alright! Let’s get started!”

With that, she signaled the start of the training they’d been continuing lately.

---

After finishing my break at my favorite beach, the first order of business was strengthening my subordinates. I raised my voice brightly in front of them and declared:

“Featherbeast Nue's Super Thrilling! Hit the Billion Mark with These Killer Moves! Let’s Get Stronger on the Beach—Bloody Deathmatch Pirate Bootcamp!!”

“Y-Yay!!! ...Hey, you bastards, hype it up already…!”

“Y-Yay!!!”

“Wooaaahhh!! Lady Nueee!!”

“……”

It started with Queen clapping and yelling, followed by the newer recruits trying to liven things up. They were a bit awkward about it, but that was fine—it’s their first time, after all. Of course, King staying silent was to be expected. He was probably centering himself mentally for the training. He’s a serious guy like that. So anyway—

“So! As the Beasts Pirates, we're aiming to become the strongest pirate crew ever, but gathering manpower, weapons, and cash isn't all it takes to survive in the New World! There's still something you're all missing! What is it? Yes, King!”

“…Strength.”

“Bingo! That’s exactly right!! Which means you’re all going to get stronger starting today!!”

I declared it loud and clear in front of the crew. As the details sank in, the recruits began murmuring with nervous faces. One of them timidly raised a hand.

“Um… how exactly are we supposed to get stronger…?”

“That’s what I’m here to teach you! And sure, I get it—you’re distracted by how great I look in this swimsuit, but try to pay attention too, okay?♡”

“Oh, so the swimsuit was for that...”

“Like anyone cares if you wear a swimsuit.”

“Shut up, Kaido!! It’s to boost morale!! A little fanservice goes a long way to keeping the mood up! Besides, we’re at the beach—it’d be a waste not to wear one!!”

(She totally just wanted to wear it herself...)

I snapped at Kaido for heckling from behind. Hm? Some of the crew look like they’re silently judging me, but whatever. The point is, this is for their own good—a lesson, a bootcamp. Up until now, I’ve only been running these with King and Queen, but starting today, I’m bringing in a bunch of regular crewmates too. It’s experimental, in a way.

See, our crew has grown to nearly 400 members. It’s a decent size now, which is great, but outside of King and Queen, most of them are... well, not exactly promising. A few show some potential, but that’s about it. And even then, they’re still just rough stones—we’ll never survive the New World unless they toughen up.

Sure, I’m working on a certain trade involving a pricey item that might help fast-track our power growth, but the quantity’s limited, the content is uncertain, and more importantly, it’s expensive.

No matter what we get, it’s never under a hundred million. That’s a huge strain on us right now. The only reason we even have access to the deal is thanks to old connections—nothing more. And with this month’s earnings being pretty low, we need to pull in way more next month... which means we can’t rely on that alone. Like I said, it’s limited and who gets it is a big decision. That’s exactly why this training is critical.

I looked around at everyone and raised my voice again. Most were in their twenties, with a few younger ones around—teens even. Some were just kids we met on islands who insisted they wanted to become pirates. Total brats, honestly. But if you’re crazy enough to ask to join the Beasts Pirates as a brat, Kaido and I figured sure, let 'em in. We believe there might be a future officer among them. And if they die, well... that’s life. No big deal. So!

“Let’s start with a little explanation... First! What I want to tell you is this—believe in human potential, and more importantly, your own potential! Humans don’t die that easily!!”

That was just my personal philosophy, but something I hold dear. To boost their confidence, I continued:

“Got it? For pirates, physical strength is everything!! Your body is justice!! Once that’s solid, you just need a bit of technique or a unique power on top! Do that, and you too can be worth over a billion like King or Queen!!”

“E-Ehh?! T-That sounds…”

The crew looked at me like it was impossible. That’s when Queen jumped in.

“That’s right!! Work hard and you’ll make my job—uh, I mean, you’ll be strong like me!!”

“Hmph… Though really, being on Queen’s level isn’t much. Catching up to me is what’s impossible.”

“Haaah!? Shut up, King!! You’re not that impressive either!!”

“...Loudmouth with only 1.2 billion.”

“AAARRRGH!? Screw you, you pervy freak!! You only got a higher bounty because you’re an even bigger freak than me!! Or the damn Navy just doesn’t know how to judge people properly!!”

“True… They clearly don’t. Only ten million between us? That’s a mistake—it should be a hundred million at least.”

“Whaaaat the heeell!!? You piece of crap, King!!”

“Huh? You wanna go, huh…!? You useless deadweight idiot…!!”

Their argument over bounty amounts heats up, and in near perfect sync, Queen and King shift into their hybrid beast forms, glaring each other down. Oh—perfect timing. I casually fetch a nearby cannon and—

“King, Queen, just stand right there for me, okay~?”

“Eh—wha, ughaaagh!?”

“…!”

I load a cannonball and fire it straight at them. Direct hit. Queen lets out a comically dramatic scream, while King just slightly wrinkles his face. Well, King probably didn’t feel a thing with that resilience of his, but I was actually referring to Queen when I said:

“—As you can see, humans don’t die just from taking a cannonball head-on.”

“Wait, that whole shot was just to demonstrate something!?”

“Hah! That looked fun—lemme try one too.”

“A second shot!? W-Wait, Kaido-san! Even if I’m fine, at least let me mentally prepare—ghubff!!?”

“Q-Queen-samaaaaaaa!!?”

“Oh, that one hit his face.”

Kaido fires another cannonball, this time right into Queen’s face. Hmmm… Not that it matters, but to an outsider, this probably looks like the captain and vice-captain executing an incompetent underling… Well, if that’s how it looks, it just makes it more entertaining. Not that something like this would even count as punishment. If Kaido or I actually wanted to discipline someone, getting punched would hurt way more and leave some serious damage.

So yeah, this is all just a little game. Like kids splashing water at each other. So, no need to worry—

“Alright, let’s continue the lesson! As you just saw, once properly trained, humans aren’t affected by bullets or blades. They won’t get pierced or stabbed. And even cannons won’t kill them.”

“W-Wait, that can’t be right…”

“If you train, you can overcome most things. Poison’s dangerous, sure—but you can build tolerance. You won’t die from a mere explosion. Even a lightning strike won’t kill you. Drowning? Hmm… Well, let’s just say do your best to survive!”

“T-That’s just nonsense!!”

“Well, that’s the kind of monsters that fill the New World. A bounty over 100 million is pretty standard. And guys like that? Attacks like these won’t kill them. Only the especially weak or sickly types die. Especially for Zoan-type users—they can tank most attacks and recover quickly, even after being knocked out. So! Here comes some good news for everyone gathered here~!”

“Eh…? Good news…?”

“What now…?”

Dropping the lecture tone, I cheerfully announce the surprise, and everyone freezes in confusion. Everyone except Kaido—who’s just sipping his sake with interest—and King, who stays silent. Oh, and Queen, who’s wiping the soot off his face.

Then I make the big announcement—the reward for surviving this training.

“If you manage to survive this training and get recognized by us top executives~~~~”

“Darararararararaaaa~”

Queen gives me a mouth-drumroll for dramatic effect, and I continue with flair:

“Ta-da! You’ll receive… a Devil Fruit obtained through our upcoming deals, plus… a spot as an officer of the Beasts Pirates!!”

“!!”

Everyone’s eyes widen in shock. Some look doubtful, some surprised—but a few… show the glint of ambition. The ambition to climb the ranks of the Beasts Pirates. Well, of course. For low-level grunts, a Devil Fruit and a leadership position is the ultimate prize.

“W-Wait… you’re serious?”

“Dead serious. Though hey—doesn’t mean you have to take the training. If you’re strong, we might just give it to you anyway. But this is a chance—for all you weaklings—to prove yourselves.”

“Worororo… That’s right. Train hard and become useful. Then we’ll give you strength—and a place to wield it.”

“A place… and strength…”

Kaido, the captain himself, confirms it. Someone gulps audibly. With power and status, they’d be free to wreak havoc and do whatever they please. For our wild, brutal crew—especially those who admire Kaido’s strength—it’s the ultimate dream.

And this is no lie. Soon, once we’ve gathered the funds, we’ll be dealing in Devil Fruits. The connections are already secured.

So really, this is a contest between beasts. A deadly selection like a venomous pit. Whether they take the training or not, the strongest among our regular crew will be granted true power. Age, gender, race—none of that matters. Strength is all that counts.

After all, counting me and Kaido, plus King and Queen, there are only four currently reliable high-level fighters. And all of us already have Devil Fruits.

So yes, we’re teaching King and Queen to grow even stronger, but this training now—it’s all about discovering new power and raising the overall strength of our crew.

…Well, we’ll put them through hell, but if anyone dies from it, they were never cut out for this crew in the first place. Replacements are easy. No loss.

“—Aaaalright then… Now that everyone’s eyes are sparkling just the way I like it, let’s get this show started, shall we? ♡”

With that, I declare the beginning of the training.

Most of them had already moved past the initial hesitation—blinded now by the promise of power and position. But hey, with that much ambition burning inside, you won’t regret dying for it, right?

Gripping my trident, I couldn’t help but smile even wider.