— — — — — —
The deal was concluded.
It was remarkably simple.
So simple, it felt almost weird.
Honestly, if Joey hadn't witnessed it firsthand, he might not have believed it himself.
The title of "mad scientist" truly fits Judge.
For people like him, the idea of new research was like unveiling a treasure chest of unimaginable wonders.
The immortality of the skeleton soldier.
The raw physical power of the berserk Beasts.
These things…
To Judge, they were as enticing as a lustful man beholding a peerless beauty.
It was an obsession, a fascination that could not be resisted.
Particularly for the Vinsmoke family, experts in genetic science.
In truth, the Vinsmoke family had already collected the genetic codes of various races from around the world.
Now, the skeleton soldier and berserk Beasts presented an entirely new genetic structure.
This was a breakthrough capable of transforming their research.
For Judge, an agreement and a Devil Fruit were a small price to pay.
Joey toyed with the Heal-Heal Fruit in his hand, remarking, "Honestly, this was one of the easiest deals I've ever made. None of my prior negotiations have ever been this straightforward."
He couldn't help but marvel.
Whether it was the Warrior Village of Elbaf, the Kingdom of Dressrosa, or the Kingdom of Alabasta—Each deal had required careful planning and deliberation before the other party would agree.
Annihilation was never the goal.
Getting them to agree willingly—that was the key.
But with Judge, everything fell into place effortlessly.
"Well, whatever," Joey muttered, shaking his head. "No point overthinking it. The Healing Fruit, the Mirror Fruit, and the Book Fruit—all three need suitable users."
"Keeping Devil Fruits as collectibles is pointless. Only by eating them and developing their potential can they truly shine."
As he pondered candidates for these fruits, Joey considered,
Unlike the food-based Devil Fruits he had set aside for future ministers, these fruits required not just cleverness but also strength and ability.
"Hmm…" Joey rubbed his temples, thinking aloud. "Compote hasn't eaten a Devil Fruit yet. Mondée, Hachée, and Effilée aren't quite suitable either. Then who else?"
Reflecting on his siblings, Joey carefully weighed his options.
Compote still seemed like a possible candidate.
Amande would have been another candidate—However, Amande had already eaten the Nut Fruit and was being groomed as the Minister of Nuts.
Joey wasn't worried about his siblings' talent or aptitude.
That wasn't the issue.
The real concern was their determination in battle.
Matters of the heart and mind weren't something that could be taught easily.
"Hmm…"
Rubbing his temples again, Joey decided, "Forget it. I'll deal with this later. For now, it's too complicated to resolve."
He shook his head calmly.
In truth, there were several talented individuals among his younger siblings.
Take Custard, for instance—her personality was naturally suited for battle.
Although she was still young and enjoyed playing around, her diligent training spoke volumes about her potential.
The current situation was different from before.
Back then—Joey had been relentless in training his siblings like Perospero, Compote, and Katakuri, pushing them hard to build up the family.
But now?
Should he still demand such vigilance from them?
— — —
Smack!
At that moment, a small figure suddenly snatched the Heal-Heal Fruit from Joey's hand.
He turned to see Custard standing beside him. "What are you up to, little one?"
With a smile, Custard replied, "Big brother, stop looking so burdened all the time! We're family. If something's on your mind, just say it."
Joey chuckled. "What would a little rascal like you understand?"
Pouting, Custard protested, "What do you mean 'little rascal'? Big brother, didn't you start building this family when you were just a kid, even younger than me?"
Joey shook his head. "That was then, this is now."
"Back then, I had no choice. But now? The most important thing is for you kids to grow up safely."
"Hmm!" Custard shook her head firmly. "Big brother, I don't want that! I'm not good at managing things, but I'll train hard and seriously. I want to help you, and our brothers and sisters too."
"…"
Joey looked deeply at Custard. After a moment, he retrieved a Devil Fruit from the family crest.
He tossed it to her casually, saying, "This is the Mirror-Mirror Fruit, a Paramecia-type. Don't waste its potential."
Beaming, Custard caught the fruit. "Don't worry, big brother!"
Joey also handed her a fine sword.
At that moment, his demeanor shifted from gentle to stern. "Charlotte Custard! Since you've chosen this path, you must fulfill your duty. This blade, Vow, is your weapon and represents your pledge."
"Yes!" Custard took the sword, her eyes filled with resolve.
Without hesitation, she bit into the Devil Fruit, eating it in its entirety.
Watching her, Joey's expression softened again. "You kids… always so eager to grow and learn."
Shaking his head, he said no more.
Custard and Broyé—Both were determined to help their family.
How could he not be proud of such hardworking little sisters?
Of course, he was!
At that moment, the door creaked open, and Broyé entered, her expression startled as she saw Custard. "Sister Custard?"
"Hehehe…" Custard giggled playfully.
Broyé smiled gently and nodded. "Congratulations, Sister Custard. Big brother, we've arrived at Green Gemstone Island!"
The Eighth Stop: Green Gemstone Island!
They were about to return home but there was something on this island they needed to get before returning.
.
.
.
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