Chapter 75: Chapter 75: Wealth and Awakening
Lynstan lay on the ground, barely clinging to life. His body was pinned down by ivory spears piercing through his limbs and torso, fixing him firmly to the earth.
The awakening of his Devil Fruit powers had drastically enhanced Lynstan's regenerative abilities. Yet, in this moment, it only served to prolong his agony. Jack had shattered every bone in Lynstan's limbs. No matter how strong his healing, pulverized bones couldn't simply reform—they only caused his body even greater torment.
Jack hadn't been pleased at first when he discovered his new ability—to regenerate his teeth. He had expected something far more impressive. But as he considered the massive tusks he grew in his mammoth form, an idea began to take shape.
After countless experiments, Jack finally perfected his "Ivory Barrage." By combining his rapid tooth regeneration with the immense muscle power of his trunk, he could launch his tusks with tremendous force. The technique was devastating, capable of piercing trees and shattering boulders. When imbued with Armament Haki, its power increased exponentially.
Tusks were also a valuable commodity in this world. Over time, Jack had amassed a significant stockpile.
In any world, money was power. Roger's famous last words had driven countless souls to the sea in pursuit of riches and glory. Most pirate crews had rules about sharing loot, dividing their plunder among the crew. A captain who hoarded wealth for themselves while leaving their crew to starve usually met a swift end.
The Beasts Pirates, one of the most infamous crews, had a meticulous system for distributing wealth. Kaido oversaw the entire hierarchy, delegating to the All-Stars and the Tobiroppo. They, in turn, distributed shares to their subordinates. Pirates stationed in Wano or other territories often received slightly larger shares since they rarely had opportunities to earn additional loot. These "civil servant" pirates spent their salaries on booze, gambling, or occasionally sending money home to their families. The Beasts Pirates also provided food and lodging, making them an attractive option for ambitious recruits.
Combat units, on the other hand, earned wealth through battle. They patrolled territories, repelled enemies, and disciplined rebellious nations. Members of these units, especially those with Zoan Devil Fruit powers, had full control over any treasure they acquired during missions. Some chose to trade a portion of their spoils for merit within the crew, which could be exchanged for better equipment, luxury experiences, or even personal training from Kaido or the All-Stars. Though obtaining an actual Devil Fruit through merit was nearly impossible for the average pirate, the system incentivized ambition.
Still, for the majority of low-ranking pirates, life was grim. Without significant strength, they had no chance of claiming major victories or riches. Their lives were cheap, and the path to glory was often a death sentence. Supervisory squads ensured discipline and prevented anyone from falsely claiming credit. With Observation Haki, there was no room for deceit.
Those with talent would inevitably rise, while the rest drank and gambled their earnings away, content with their lot. Much of a pirate's fortune depended on the captain they served under. High-ranking officers in the Beasts Pirates, even the lowest of the Shinuchi, earned far more than ordinary pirates. Some, like King, managed finances meticulously, distributing wealth to their subordinates to maintain loyalty and morale.
Jack, for instance, had accumulated significant wealth during his time at sea. After sharing a portion with his crew, he converted most of it into merit to gain Kaido's favor. He needed Kaido's endorsement for his plans to reform Kuri. The discovery of his ivory-producing ability only accelerated this process, granting Jack extra income to distribute among his subordinates.
"If I regenerate my tusks day and night, the fortune I could amass would be unimaginable!" Jack thought. "Though... I wonder if flooding the market with ivory would cause the prices to crash?"
Just then, a familiar voice echoed in his mind.
"Congratulations, Host! The ship docking process is complete. Due to extended inactivity, a reward has been automatically drawn!"
"Congratulations, Host! You have received a rare Flash Reward: Devil Fruit Awakening!"
The system's announcement was followed by a strange sensation coursing through Jack's body. His heartbeats slowed, and an unfamiliar strength surged through him. Curious, Jack opened his status screen. His character card glowed gold, marked with an imposing "SR." Upon closer inspection, Jack's eyes widened in disbelief.
Host Name: Jack
Physique: 105 (UR)
Agility: 85 (SSR)
Strength: 105 (UR)
Perception: 80 (SSR)
Willpower: 90 (SSR)
Overall Rating: SSR
(T/N: Attribute tiers correspond to multiples of 20: NR (Normal), R (Rare), SR (Super Rare), SSR (Super Super Rare), UR (Ultra Rare).)
The system congratulated Jack for achieving physical attributes that surpassed most pirates. His recent awakening had significantly boosted his stats, propelling him closer to his goal.
Clenching his fist, Jack felt his confidence surge. "If it's me now, I can take him down!" he thought, glancing toward the hulking figure of Ostec.
Doflamingo, who had been observing Jack with a raised brow, tilted his head.
Jack had been acting strangely—rubbing his eyes, tapping the air, and now staring off into space. Doflamingo couldn't help but wonder: Did he get hurt somehow?
Before he could ask, Jack suddenly turned to him, eyes blazing with excitement.
"Hey, Doffy!"
"Hmm?"
"Can you drop the Birdcage for a bit? Just temporarily! You can keep him from escaping, right?"
Doflamingo nodded cautiously. "I can... but why?"
Jack turned his gaze toward the harbor, a grin spreading across his face.
"I've got a plan—just trust me."
What plan? Doflamingo stepped back instinctively, putting some distance between himself and the increasingly unpredictable Jack.
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