Chapter 34: Chapter 34 : Open the door! I am here to Check the water meter!
Kahn's tone of the words in his last sentence were evident. However, Robin's surprise at his statement quickly shifted to action.
"It seems that the lieutenant general was indeed provoked," Robin observed, her voice tinged with emotion.
"Absolutely! I can't resist," Kahn replied, his tone indicating that he was not one to shy away from provocation.
Robin agreed, "Definitely not. So, Lieutenant General, what do you want?"
Kahn responded with a cynical tone, "What else? Just checking the water meter."
Though Robin didn't quite grasp the meaning of "checking the water meter," she understood the implications of Kahn's words.
But before she could say anything, Kahn's voice interrupted her thoughts again.
"Forget it, why even bother discussing it? This place will be closed down soon, whether I check it or not," Kahn stated, his casual demeanor underscoring the impending changes.
"It's likely not worth the effort," Robin concurred.
Kahn's attention remained on Robin, and his gaze made her uncomfortable.
"Why are you looking at me like that, Lieutenant General?"
"Aren't you worried that I might capture you? Hand you over to the World Government? The Devil's Child, Nico Robin?" Kahn inquired, a curious glint in his eye.
Robin's demeanor shifted instantly, her confidence replaced by unease.
"How do you know my identity?"
"Is it supposed to be a secret?" Kahn shot back.
"I am a Shichibukai's pirate member now."
"But as far as I know, in the entire Baroque Works organization, only that failure, Crocodile, knows your true identity. Which means you're not truly under the command of the Shichibukai, just an accomplice to the little crocodile," Kahn stated matter-of-factly.
Robin's complexion changed drastically.
"Moreover, don't you think that being a Shichibukai will save you? The Devil's Child? I'm not Aokiji, so don't be naive." Kahn continued.
Robin's forehead glistened with sweat as she faced Kahn's piercing gaze. She hadn't expected the navy admiral to know her true identity, nor did she anticipate his knowledge of the Shichibukai's dynamic.
With Robin visibly shaken, Kahn continued, "Don't worry, keep calm, and don't make a move. While I may not like fighting women, I will respond if provoked."
Robin's unease remained, but Kahn pressed on, "Here's the deal – I'm money-driven. And I don't see eye to eye with the World Government's approach. Despite being the Devil's Child, if you pay a substantial ransom, I could turn a blind eye. It's my way of doing Kid Aokiji a favor. What do you think?"
Robin was left stunned by Kahn's words.
Undeterred, Kahn persisted, "Your bounty is currently 79 million Berries. Double that, and you need to pay 158 million Berries as ransom for me to look the other way. A nice face-saving move for Kid Aokiji, wouldn't you agree?"
Robin remained silent, her thoughts racing as she grappled with the complex situation before her.
Impatient, Kahn's tone grew more irritable, "Cheap deal, if you ask me."
"Damn old navy man, what are you doing here?" a low, threatening voice interrupted.
Kahn turned to see Crocodile making his appearance.
Robin, drenched in cold sweat, seized the opportunity to retreat.
Kahn paid no mind to Robin's departure. His goal remained unchanged – to collect the ransom money.
Crocodile's presence had a chilling effect on the casino, silencing the gamblers.
The entire establishment had come to a standstill.
"Hey! It's Little Crocodile! And he's sporting a bandage. But it looks like you are healing well. Truly befitting of a big-shot pirate who earned the Shichibukai title!" Kahn commented, placing heavy emphasis on the term "big-shot pirate."
Kahn's words carried a weight that was clear even to Crocodile.
However, Kahn's tone shifted slightly as he added, "It's too bad. In the world of the strong, recovery happens in the blink of an eye."
Crocodile's irritation flared at the comment. He held Kahn responsible for his current condition.
"What brings you here? I've already paid the ransom," Crocodile said, attempting to control his anger despite the powerful presence before him.
"Well, well, you're quite composed now. But didn't you listen to me this morning? Since when did the old man care about the Shichibukai title?" Kahn retorted.
He paused momentarily before adding, "Besides, that title won't be yours for much longer."
Crocodile's expression soured at Kahn's words.
"What do you mean?"
"It's simple. Your recent actions are grounds for the World Government to revoke your Shichibukai title."
Crocodile's demeanor grew darker.
"What actions?"
"No need for further debate. According to my reports, you've been plotting to overthrow this country and using methods such as Dance Powder."
Crocodile's complexion shifted, his guilt evident.
"Alright, enough with the talk. The real question is, will you surrender without a fight or resist in vain?" Kahn challenged.
Crocodile tensed, prepared to engage if necessary. But then he seemed to recall something and interjected, "Aren't you a lover of money? How much would it take to make this matter disappear?"
He saw Kahn's money-oriented attitude and hoped to capitalize on it.
Confident in his wealth, he felt he could buy his way out of the situation.
While somewhat aggrieved, Crocodile recognized Kahn's formidable strength. He begrudgingly admitted that he stood little chance against him and it was time to cut his losses.
Weekly Power Status
-- Power
Ranking 
-- Power
stone