One Piece: My code name is Green Bull

Jon listened intently. This was the first time he had heard Tsuru talk so much, and in such detail.

Only after hearing her out did he realize how naive he had been before.

The Navy is indeed the primary military force at sea, but the problem is that they are not the Celestial Dragons. While they have privileges, in many respects, they still can't compare to nobles, let alone the World Nobles, the Celestial Dragons.

He had never considered that the mighty Navy could actually face difficulties over food supplies. He used to think the Navy's provisions were endless and inexhaustible.

If food really became an issue, his ability would certainly become invaluable, which explained why Sengoku had summoned him so urgently.

"Vice Admiral, does this mean that, starting tomorrow, I'll begin accelerating the growth of crops, as Sengoku said?"

Though it was an opportunity to showcase his abilities, Jon couldn't shake the feeling that something about it seemed off.

I, Jon, a man destined to dominate the world of pirates, and now they want me to grow food? It felt like a serious case of wasted potential.

Was he really going from the main character to a supporting role?

"Yes, but you need to exercise some restraint."

"Vice Admiral, I don't quite understand what you mean by that," Jon said, puzzled. He noticed something off about Tsuru's expression. What exactly did she want him to control?

Tsuru asked, "Tell me honestly—if you were to accelerate the growth of crops, how much could you produce in one day?"

"This…"

Jon frowned and started calculating. After a moment, he replied, "It's hard to say for sure, but take corn, for example. If I really went all out, I could probably grow several dozen tons in a day without much trouble. However, because it's accelerated growth, the taste might not be as good as naturally matured corn."

"That's too much," Tsuru said flatly, catching Jon by surprise.

"Too much?" Jon was taken aback.

Tsuru nodded. "Yes, too much."

Jon was confused. "Vice Admiral, are you worried about making too much? That it won't all get eaten? If that's the case, I can produce less."

He thought she was concerned about overproduction and waste, but that didn't seem like a real problem to him.

Tsuru sighed. Jon could be sharp at times, but other times he was as dense as a block of wood. She felt she had made herself clear, yet he still didn't understand.

"It's not a matter of whether we can consume it all; it's about you."

"Me?"

Jon paused, and then the realization hit him. "You mean I should produce less?"

Tsuru's expression finally showed a hint of satisfaction. She then looked at Jon seriously.

"Food is essential for everyone, and for many, it's a scarce resource. While you can produce it, you absolutely cannot produce too much, as it could disrupt existing supply channels."

"For you, this ability could be a shortcut to success, but it could just as easily become your downfall. If you limit your production to a reasonable amount, people will accept it more readily, and you'll be safer for it. Keeping a low profile has always been your approach, hasn't it? This time, you need to stick to that principle."

Jon's face grew serious as well, and he nodded solemnly. "I understand, Vice Admiral."

Tsuru had spelled it out clearly. He understood exactly what she meant. To sum it up in one phrase:

Possessing a treasure could bring calamity.

If word got out that he could mass-produce food, he would undoubtedly attract attention. With food being a vital necessity for everyone in the world, its importance was obvious.

If someone capable of disrupting the entire food industry suddenly appeared, the consequences would be dire. At that point, the burden would be too great for Jon to bear.

Tsuru was trying to protect him, giving him a warning. He could produce food, but not in excessive amounts—at least not enough to alter the balance of power.

"Turns out I've been hiding my talents under a bushel. All this time, I've been focused on developing powerful offensive abilities, overlooking other directions. If I got into the food business, who could compete with me?"

Though the thought crossed his mind, Jon wasn't regretful. Sure, his ability could make him a lot of money, but without enough strength, what good would riches do?

This world is one where the strong rule and order is chaotic. Only strength can support everything.

"Good that you understand. Tomorrow, just be careful. You can stand out, but not too much," Tsuru cautioned.

Her words sounded very familiar to Jon, reminiscent of the officials in his past life, giving vague instructions that carried deeper implications for you to figure out on your own.

After their conversation, Jon headed back on his own. He was halfway back when his expression suddenly changed.

"This is bad!"

He broke into a run. In his rush, he'd forgotten something crucial—he'd left Borsalino in his quarters! That meant his money was unguarded.

He rushed back to his room, threw open his backpack, and immediately let out an angry roar: "BORSALINO!"

Nightfall.

"How was that place I took you to today? Good service?"

"Heh, no complaints! You really know how to have fun. When are we going again?"

"Whoa, the day just ended, and you're already thinking about next time? I like your enthusiasm."

"Well, you said I've got to keep up with the team and the times. If you all go, I can't be left behind. I wasn't too familiar with it this time, but I'll do better next time for sure."

"Next time, I'll take you to another spot. But you better bring money, just like this time. No freebies for this kind of thing."

"Got it, got it. Don't worry—I've got some savings. Worst case, I'll just capture a few more pirates later."

"Good attitude. I like you. When Sakazuki gets back, we'll form a group and go together."

"…"

Borsalino and Pemberton walked back to the dorms, arms around each other's shoulders, laughing slyly as they went.

The two had started off as mere acquaintances, but today's events had turned them into close comrades. Their relationship had improved significantly.

Soon, they arrived at the entrance of the dormitory. Being mid-level officers, they enjoyed decent accommodations—a four-story dorm that could house dozens of people.

Most of the residents, like Sakazuki, were out on pirate-hunting missions or patrols, so the dorm was fairly empty, allowing them to speak freely.

"You two seem to be having a good time," a sinister voice suddenly said from behind them. Borsalino and Pemberton jumped in fright.

Borsalino reacted instantly. In a flash of light, he was gone.

"I…"

Pemberton was left standing there, staring awkwardly at the empty space where Borsalino had been. He turned around with a sheepish grin.

"Jon, what are you doing here?"

Jon looked at Pemberton's embarrassed face and shook his head in exasperation. "This isn't about you. I'm here for Borsalino. That guy stole my money again!"

There should be corn in the pirate world, right? Just saying, in case anyone wants to argue, hehe!

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