Kapitel 76: Chapter 76

Chapter 76: Is That Cat a Devil?

"In joining the Navy, of course, it's for upholding justice, protecting civilians, and combating pirates." Vice Admiral Crane gave a nearly standard response, urging, "I've heard about some of the things you've been doing recently. I believe you have the intention to protect civilians. Joining the Navy is a great choice."

Hearing her mention recent actions, Adrian felt a bit guilty, but considering she was probably referring to their encounter with the fake Straw Hats, he replied, "You might be giving me too much credit. I only provoked those guys when I was sure we could win. If I couldn't, I would have run away. To be honest, you could also say I was after the bounty."

"The assumptions you're making don't exist. What I know is that you defeated the pirates and prevented harm to the nearby citizens. That's enough," Vice Admiral Crane looked at him and continued:

"From your tone, it seems you lack trust in the Navy. Don't worry, even if you become a part of the Navy, you won't be forced to face enemies you can't possibly defeat."

I just don't believe that! That incident with Vice Admiral Kadar is proof enough! But I can't say that out loud, Kadar said things he shouldn't have when he was drunk, and bringing it up might get him in trouble.

At that moment, a cat's paw stretched out from the side, snatched a piece of pastry, and tried to walk away.

Adrian grabbed Tom and brought him over, giving him a few scratches after picking him up. He glanced at Artoria and Rui Mengmeng, then scanned the patrons who were chatting and laughing. Instead of continuing the conversation with Vice Admiral Crane, he said, "Compared to joining the Navy, I prefer my current life. Cats, a home, and... friends. I listen to customers brag when there's nothing to do, and I kick out troublemakers when they cause a scene."

"In the Navy, things aren't as rigid as you're imagining. Even at Marine Headquarters, there are plenty of individuals who march to their own beat. With your abilities, joining the Navy and wanting to keep pets, drink, and chat, it's all perfectly fine," Vice Admiral Crane had seen her fair share of eccentrics in the Navy over the years. As long as you had the skills, personal habits and hobbies didn't matter much.

"Hey, didn't expect to find so many beauties in a place like this. Perfect, come have a drink with this lord!" Three shady individuals, seeing Artoria, Rui Mengmeng, and the female marine Vice Admiral Crane had brought along, decided to flirt.

The tavern's patrons watched with eager anticipation. The tavern was already known for being a place not to be trifled with, and now with a Vice Admiral present, things were bound to get interesting.

These three seemed used to such attention, not feeling awkward at all. Instead, they reveled in it.

"Hey, you there, bring us some drinks!" One of them banged the table. Upon seeing Vice Admiral Crane from the side, they didn't recognize her immediately and jeered, "An old lady like you is coming to a tavern? Aren't you afraid of your dentures falling out from the drinking?"

The other two burst into laughter.

The situation in the tavern escalated quickly. Not every commoner was familiar with Devil Fruit abilities, so this astonishing power was a novelty for many.

Meanwhile, Vice Admiral Crane calmly regarded them, seemingly unperturbed by their antics. She continued speaking:

"You said you like this kind of life. One of the reasons the Navy fights is to ensure people can live peacefully. Would you also be willing to do things like that?"

"I have great respect for Navy personnel like you who dedicate their youth for justice, and I admire those who sacrifice themselves to protect the people. But I'm not there yet." Adrian expressed his standpoint candidly, admitting he wasn't that noble:

"As for upholding justice, I've heard that Navy admirals uphold various versions of justice. If it were up to me, perhaps it'd be 'justice within my capabilities.' At the very least, if my neighbors or acquaintances were unfortunate enough to encounter pirates one day, I wouldn't just stand by."

...

Vice Admiral Crane left, understanding that Adrian prioritizes his own safety. If he has the ability, he's willing to help others.

In poverty, be self-reliant; in prosperity, assist the world.

Although this world doesn't have that saying, Adrian's attitude expressed it clearly.

Vice Admiral Crane didn't dislike people like him. At least they don't actively do wrong; they could be categorized as allies.

She didn't bother persuading the other two further, as they didn't show any interest in the conversation between her and Adrian. Their attitude seemed to be "whatever the boss decides."

She wondered how an unremarkable boss like Adrian managed to find such employees.

As Vice Admiral Crane was leaving, she took three "clothes" with her. They couldn't be left behind; Tom had already taken one "piece of clothing" and spread it out on a table, even preparing an iron.

Punishing and educating small-time troublemakers like this and then releasing them was usually enough. It hadn't escalated to the point of torture, and once Vice Admiral Crane's ability washed over them, they might even reform.

When taken away by Vice Admiral Crane, the three cried miserably. That cat must be a devil; they'd never dare do anything bad again!

"'Justice within my capabilities'?" Vice Admiral Crane glanced back at the seemingly ordinary small tavern, chuckling, "As long as it's justice."