"Zephyr, you old man, where did you get all these things? And what exactly are they for?" Ashveil asked, tilting his head curiously.
Zephyr's heart raced. He had feared that Ashveil might dismiss his efforts, that all the careful planning and expensive acquisitions would be for nothing. Yet, seeing Ashveil's mild interest filled him with relief.
"Hahaha! Reporting, Ashveil-san, these are to be used with a computer," Zephyr said respectfully, bowing slightly.
Ashveil's eyes flicked toward the items, the spark of curiosity immediately igniting.
"I don't know the name of this device," Zephyr continued, his voice steady but full of pride, "but its purpose is to link multiple computers so that several people can play games simultaneously. I obtained it from Germa; it's a newly developed item. If you don't mind, Mr. Ashveil, you can name it yourself."
Ashveil leaned forward, examining the cables carefully. If installed on his computer, he could use them to play some of the more complex single-player games in conjunction with others. Of course, fully online gameplay was impossible, as this world had no internet—yet the potential was clear.
"Let's call this a net cable," Ashveil said indifferently, setting the cables down in front of him.
"And… the person who designed this net cable must be brilliant," he added, eyes narrowing with curiosity. "Do you think you can bring them to me?"
The thought of accessing minds capable of such innovation excited him.
Zephyr's excitement soared. "In that case, Ashveil-san… does this mean I've passed? May I join your command?"
Ashveil nodded slowly, a satisfied smile crossing his face. "Naturally. I'm genuinely impressed with what you've brought me."
Relief washed over Zephyr. He even shook hands with Golden Lion Shiki beside him.
"Hahaha! Shiki, did you hear that? I passed! We're on the same team now. From this moment, we'll both serve under Ashveil, hahaha!"
Shiki laughed along, though his grin was still tinged with the residual anxiety of having waited for Ashveil's judgment.
Ashveil smirked faintly. "There is one more condition, Zephyr. You must bring the person who made this net cable to me."
Zephyr blinked, but excitement quickly overcame any annoyance. Who could resist the opportunity to serve Ashveil and witness the potential of their work being appreciated?
"Hahaha! Ashveil-san, don't worry. You'll have them and their entire team ready. They're willing to dedicate themselves to your technological research indefinitely," Zephyr said, enthusiasm bubbling in his voice.
Ashveil nodded with approval. He was already imagining the possibilities. These Germa scientists from North Blue had been known for their technological prowess, specializing in human modifications and advanced equipment. While their combat strength did not rival the Yonko, their innovation could dominate regions. Apart from the world-renowned genius Vegapunk, Germa's technology was unparalleled.
---
With Ashveil's silent approval, the Germa team filed into the room one by one, their combat suits gleaming under the cabin lights. They bowed deeply in a display of exaggerated humility.
"Ashveil-sama, thank you for accepting us! We will dedicate ourselves to developing games and advancing technology under your command!"
Their loyalty was not empty words. Their past service had been conditional and opportunistic, but recent events had forced them to seek stronger protection. Big Mom and Kaido's combined assault had weakened their defenses, revealing that Big Mom's marriage alliance had been a sham. She had sought to seize control of their kingdom and monopolize their technology.
With Cake Island's forces depleted, they had seized the opportunity to plunder resources overnight. North Blue was no longer safe. They needed a patron strong enough to command the seas—someone whose power could protect them from both pirates and the World Government. Ashveil was their only choice.
Fortune smiled on them. They had encountered Zephyr in search of game consoles, and naturally, they had followed him to Ashveil. The young pirate's fascination with high technology had sealed their fate.
Now, they presented themselves with utmost humility, though Ashveil merely waved a hand.
"In my world," he said, "there's no need for formalities. Focus on creating, developing, and improving games for me. That is all I require."
The Germa team straightened, pride and determination settling on their faces. They understood that under Ashveil, their talents would find true purpose.
Ashveil walked among them, his sharp gaze inspecting each individual briefly. Then he paused, his attention returning to the net cables.
"However… these lines that connect computers are the most interesting part," he murmured thoughtfully. "I want them improved, optimized, and expanded. If possible, I'd like them to evolve into something even more powerful—something that could form the foundation of an entire gaming network in this world."
A murmur of excitement passed through the Germa team. They had been challenged before, but never with such opportunity. This was no ordinary patron—it was someone who understood both strategy and innovation, someone whose vision surpassed the simple pursuit of treasure or territory.
Ashveil's mind worked quickly, analyzing potential applications. He could use the cables to coordinate complex simulations, battle exercises, and even construct controlled environments for combat training. These technologies could revolutionize the Whitebeard Pirates' approach to everything from logistics to strategy.
Zephyr, standing beside Ashveil, felt pride swell in his chest. He had managed to impress the man who had crushed fleets and armies alike, and now his own knowledge and connections would serve under Ashveil's command.
"Ashveil-sama," Judge said humbly, "we will dedicate ourselves entirely."
Ashveil nodded, satisfied. "Good. Then get to work. Show me what your minds are capable of."