Translator's Note:
Hey there, reader! Just a quick heads-up—if you come across any unfamiliar fruits, they're likely new creations and not from the One Piece universe.
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Rosh's hands were stained with blood for the first time, yet he found himself much calmer than anticipated. There was no panic or guilt; those thugs had brought it upon themselves, and Rosh felt no remorse.
He even had the presence of mind to consider whether he had been caught on camera, left any evidence, or whether the police might come looking for him. Fortunately, the incident had occurred in a poor and chaotic neighborhood. Rosh had specifically checked and found no cameras around. This was expected since those thugs would not choose a place with surveillance for their ambushes.
On his way back, Rosh took some secluded paths to minimize any traces he might leave behind. As for the rest, he decided to leave it to fate.
Shaking his head to clear away the distracting thoughts, Rosh changed out of his bullet-riddled clothes, took a refreshing shower, and then comfortably laid on his bed and started playing on his phone.
"Boss! Are you there? This is Wade messaging!"
Just as he was getting into a game, a message from Deadpool popped up on his social media app. This time, Deadpool messaged Rosh privately instead of in the group chat, indicating something serious rather than gossip about him and Helen Cho.
Understanding the urgency, Rosh exited the game and replied,
"What's up, Wade?"
"I'd like to know if your shop has any Devil Fruits that can give an ordinary person combat abilities. Preferably something that can deal with assassins."
Rosh couldn't help but smile. Wade was asking if there were fruits that could enhance combat power? Enhancing combat abilities was the primary function of Devil Fruits!
"Of course, Wade. Not only do we have such fruits, but we have many! For instance, the Slash-Slash Fruit lets you launch slash-like energy waves. The Sound Wave-Sound Wave Fruit allows you to emit sound wave attacks, and the Thorn-Thorn Fruit can create thorns for weapons..."
Rosh briefly introduced several relevant Devil Fruits to Deadpool.
"But Wade, I must remind you that even after consuming a Devil Fruit, a user's power is closely linked to their physical condition. All Devil Fruits grant only basic abilities at first, requiring continuous development and training to become powerful."
"If you think you can become a master overnight by eating a Devil Fruit, that's unrealistic. A Devil Fruit merely opens a path to becoming stronger; how far you can go depends on the user's determination."
Understanding this, Deadpool fell into deep thought. He intended to buy another Devil Fruit primarily to ensure Vanessa's safety. As a mercenary, Deadpool had many enemies who had targeted him before, causing Vanessa considerable distress. Unable to do much beyond moving houses and keeping a low profile, he now saw the Devil Fruits as a game-changer, offering a way to enhance Vanessa's safety.
However, he didn't want to drastically alter Vanessa's life or put her through harsh training. Hence, offensive Devil Fruits were unsuitable.
"What about Devil Fruits that enhance defense?" Deadpool asked after some thought.
"Of course, we have those too."
"Do these defensive fruits also require rigorous training?"
"All Devil Fruits require development; otherwise, you'll only have basic abilities. However, even basic defensive abilities should suffice against knives and bullets."
Deadpool had made up his mind. Defensive Devil Fruit it was!
"I see, boss. I know what to choose now. I'll probably visit your shop in a few days to buy a Devil Fruit."
"Really, Wade? I'm looking forward to it," Rosh replied with a smile.
Deadpool seemed unreliable on the surface, but in reality, he was very dependable. Not only had he introduced a big client, but he also planned to return for more business.
He's far from a lousy customer; in fact, he's an excellent one.
"Don't forget my discount!" Deadpool emphasized before exiting the chat.
"Time to get to work!"
Sitting on the rooftop under the moonlight, Deadpool murmured to himself as he dialed a number. A voice answered shortly,
"Mr. Wilson, have you changed your mind?"
"Yes, Wesley, I've changed my mind. I'll take the job, but fifty grand is too low. We're talking about the famous Daredevil from Hell's Kitchen!"
"Mr. Wilson, money is never an issue, especially for a legendary mercenary like you. Our boss won't skimp on payment. May I ask what made you change your mind?"
"Damn, why do you killers always ask so many questions... I need money. Desperately! Is that enough?"
"Mr. Wilson, do you have time now? Let's meet at the usual place."
"Deal!"
Hanging up, Deadpool leaped off the rooftop, disappearing into the night.
Two hours later, with a swagger in his step, he appeared outside an abandoned building in Hell's Kitchen. However, two guards stopped him at the entrance.
"Mr. Wilson, you can't bring any weapons inside."
From inside the courtyard, Wesley, who had been waiting, called out, "We need you to disarm, Mr. Wilson."
"It's ironic that a bunch of killers are such cowards."
Deadpool mocked as he handed over his two swords, which he had been carrying on his back before being allowed inside.
"You do realize I don't need swords to kill you, right?"
Deadpool casually took a seat in front of Wesley.
"I don't doubt that, Mr. Wilson, if you are who you say you are."
Wesley adjusted his glasses and requested, "Now, please remove your mask."
"Sorry, are we here for a blind date? Do you need to check if I'm handsome or not?"
"I'm just verifying your identity. Please understand."
"The ruler of Hell's Kitchen is such a coward? If you don't trust me, why not just..."
"Shh, we never speak his name. Also, Mr. Wilson, please remove your mask if you want to continue this conversation."
"Okay, okay, what a hassle!"
Though reluctant, Deadpool eventually removed his mask, revealing a brand-new face to Wesley.