"When our ancestors first arrived on this island, everything was already quite well-developed. Competing in the materials trade would've inevitably led to conflict. Our strength was too insignificant at the time, so we chose to focus on low-margin everyday goods instead."
"The pioneers here saw that we didn't try to seize resources or stir up trouble, just sold daily necessities. Not only did they not oppose us—they even helped us greatly."
"Originally, our ancestors only intended to gain a foothold on Canopy Island with these goods. Eventually, they planned to expand into the materials trade—the real money-maker. A good month in that business could earn what others made in a whole year."
"But to their surprise, the so-called low-profit goods ended up generating staggering returns. Many materials traders went bankrupt over time, while our ancestors gave up on the idea of entering that market and focused entirely on household essentials."
As they walked, Groo casually explained his family's history to Weiss. What puzzled him was why he was sharing so much with a complete stranger.
Groo wiped the sweat from his face with a silk handkerchief, a result of the long walk. "Honestly, none of this is a secret. Stay on Canopy Island long enough, and you'll hear bits and pieces about our family."
"Back in the day, some of the materials traders were jealous of our profits and even tried to boycott us. It didn't work," Groo continued.
It was mostly Groo talking, and Weiss was just listening.
But a nagging feeling crept into Weiss's mind—perhaps coming here to buy books had been a mistake. As they walked along the tree-lined path, everyone they passed greeted Groo politely. They were servants of the estate.
What stood out to Weiss was that many of these people had strong auras—stronger than the ones secretly guarding Groo. A few even had fearsome presences. Since the moment he entered the estate, some of them hadn't taken their eyes off him.
...
...
Weiss pretended not to notice. Even if they all attacked at once, they wouldn't be enough to stop him. If he was still calm enough to stroll the grounds and listen to Groo talk, it meant he was confident in his strength.
"Failed, you say?" Weiss asked casually. "Even if your family managed to secure a foothold, I doubt your foundations could compare to those of the entrenched materials traders."
"You're absolutely right. In terms of business size and social connections, we couldn't match them. But when it comes to top-level combat power—they couldn't compare to us."
Groo gave Weiss a meaningful look. "People like you understand that out on the seas, sheer numbers mean little to some individuals."
Just then, a man dressed like a steward approached. "Sir, which residence should we prepare for tonight?"
"We'll stay in the central building today," Groo replied with a smile, squinting slightly. "There's a complete library there. Our young guest may find what he's looking for."
The steward glanced at Weiss, then walked toward the center of the estate.
"Please forgive me," Groo said with an apologetic tone. "I control half of all daily goods on this island. Naturally, that makes me a target for ambitious people. Assassins come after me every month. I built all these houses to throw them off."
"I never sleep in the same room two nights in a row. Sometimes I even change rooms in the middle of the night."
As Groo went on, Weiss grew more confused. Canopy Island was large, but 90% of it was forested. Human settlements were sparse. Even if Groo controlled half the market, wasn't this level of paranoia excessive?
And what about their so-called top combat power? Weren't they once strong enough to defeat entire nations alone? Could they really have declined so much?
"This way, my friend," Groo said with his signature smile, as if it could win anyone's trust.
Unfortunately, Weiss had long since learned: the ones who smile with squinting eyes are the real monsters.
Before them stood a massive castle styled like something out of medieval Europe. Its grand doors were already open. Servants streamed out in orderly rows, lining up on both sides to welcome the guests.
Two people silently moved to Groo's side.
One was a giant over three meters tall, muscles bulging, exuding an aura of brute strength.
The other was under two meters, lean and dressed in athletic wear—he looked like a friendly older brother from next door. But to Weiss's trained senses, this one was even more dangerous than the giant.
If Weiss couldn't see the trap by now, his intelligence might as well be dragged across the floor.
"Mr. Groo," Weiss said, a sharp glint flickering in his narrowed eyes, "I'm only here to buy some nautical books. Isn't this... a bit much?"
At his words, both the giant and the athletic man stepped forward simultaneously, placing themselves between Groo and Weiss. Their eyes locked on Weiss like predators ready to strike at the first sign of danger.
"Matt, Emmet—stand down. Weiss is my guest," Groo said calmly.
The two obeyed without hesitation, returning behind Groo in perfect formation.
Watching this, Weiss couldn't help but admire Groo's absolute command. These powerful individuals were treating an ordinary merchant with the discipline of elite soldiers.
"I imagine someone of your strength isn't fazed by all this, right?" Groo said, still beaming with confidence.
"Actually," Weiss replied coolly, "I'm a little scared. Goodbye."
With that, he turned and walked away without looking back—leaving only a graceful silhouette behind.
Even Groo, experienced as he was, was left dumbfounded. What kind of reaction was that? Weren't the strong supposed to laugh boldly and march in regardless?
This wasn't like any powerhouse he'd met before. No wonder people suspected he was the heir to the Golden Lion—becoming a Greatsword Master and rivaling royal-level figures at such a young age?
What an... unusual personality.
"Please wait!" Groo finally dropped the pretense, his smile fading as he called out to Weiss's retreating figure.
Weiss was the strongest person Groo had ever come into contact with. If he left now, the Groo family might be doomed.
But Weiss didn't stop. What, you think I'm just some dog you can call over whenever you want?
You're underestimating me, Groo.
"Mr. Weiss! I only wanted to ask for your help!" Groo shouted, revealing his true intention.
Still, Weiss didn't pause. He was even considering using Shave to disappear entirely. Right now, he just wanted to leave this estate and enjoy the island's stunning scenery. That's what sailing was supposed to be about, wasn't it?
"Mr. Weiss! If you help me—I'll give you a Devil Fruit as payment!"
At that, Weiss stopped in his tracks.
Well... maybe hearing the request out wouldn't hurt.
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