Chapter 85: Too Convenient!

The Capital of Water 7 was a massive shipbuilding island, unique in its layout, with a complex system of waterways weaving through it. Over time, the island had slowly been sinking into the sea, prompting the islanders to continuously build upward, layer upon layer, creating a landscape where much of the original "Old City" lay submerged beneath the water.

As Claudius's grand ship docked at the port, it was clear that the City of Water 7 was no longer in its golden age. The shipbuilding industry had started to decline, though the bustling atmosphere from its prosperous days still lingered in the air. Yet, beneath this facade, there were countless unemployed shipwrights struggling to find work. Claudius observed this mix of vitality and hardship as he arrived.

The city, composed of winding canals rather than roads, made it easy for the two mermaid sisters, Lenny and Mero, to get around they could simply swim along the waterways. Claudius and his entourage rented a small boat, attaching a pair of "Bull" sea creatures, iconic to the city, at the front. These Bulls functioned like horses pulling a carriage, albeit in water, propelling them smoothly through the canals.

"Such a fascinating island," Claudius mused, admiring the city's unique culture as they glided through the water. "They rely solely on the shipbuilding industry to sustain their economy. But with a place like this, it's a shame to ignore its other strengths. If I were running things, I'd make this a tourist destination. Imagine building around their distinct traditions the Bulls, the Mask Carnival, and the grand 'Aqua Laguna' tidal wave. A little vision could turn this into a world-renowned resort!"

Stussy, sitting beside him, smiled. "Your Highness, you really do have a knack for seeing opportunity. Who knew you'd come up with such a profound observation so quickly?"

Claudius laughed, clearly enjoying the flattery. "Hah! You're just feeding my ego now. Still, who knows? Maybe I'll buy this place someday," he joked, though a glimmer in his eyes suggested he might actually consider it.

"So, where to, Your Highness?" Nia asked, steering their conversation back on track.

"We're looking for Tom's Workers, the shipyard run by a merman named Tom. Roger mentioned he's one of the best shipwrights out there. Let's ask for directions," Claudius replied.

As they made their way through the waterways, they soon encountered a boatman coming the opposite way, also using Bulls to pull his boat. Claudius raised a hand in greeting, and the man waved back.

"Hey, friend! Could you tell us how to get to Tom's Shipbuilding Company? I'm looking for Tom," Claudius called out.

The boatman paused, scratching his head as he processed the request. "You're here to see Tom? You mean, to build a ship?"

"That's right. A friend recommended him, said his craftsmanship is the best on the island," Claudius confirmed with a nod.

The boatman seemed to hesitate. "Your friend's not wrong. Tom is indeed the best shipwright in Water 7," he said, nodding in agreement. "But… well, let me give you some advice. Tom's in serious trouble with the World Government. Getting involved with him now might bring more problems than it's worth."

"Trouble with the government?" Claudius raised an eyebrow, feigning mild surprise, though he had some inkling from Roger's past tales.

The boatman glanced around before speaking in a lower tone, "Yeah, Tom's been under scrutiny ever since it came out that he built a ship for the Pirate King, Roger. The World Government considers him an accomplice, and he's being treated like a criminal. Because of him, business in Water 7 has taken a hit, and the locals aren't standing up for him. If you associate with him, it could be bad news."

Claudius nodded, mulling over this. "Well, it's a good thing I have a bit of pull with the World Government," he said with a smirk. "If Tom is willing to build my ship, I might just be able to help him out of this little predicament."

The boatman's eyes widened. "You're serious about seeing him?"

"Absolutely," Claudius replied with confidence.

"Alright then. Follow this canal, take a left at the second intersection, and you'll reach the scrapyard. But you'd better hurry, some World Government agents are already there. They might be taking him away soon."

Claudius thanked the man, and they quickly continued down the canal. True to the directions, they soon arrived at a large scrapyard piled with discarded and scrapped ships, remnants from people who had upgraded to newer vessels. Just beyond the scrap heap was a small dock swarming with men in black suits, agents of the government.

"It looks like Tom really is in trouble," Stussy whispered, noting the cluster of officials.

Claudius stretched his neck, rolling his shoulders as he prepared to step in. "Looks like some CP agents. Let's go see what they're up to."

At the dock, Tom, a stout merman with a hammer slung over his shoulder, was standing alongside his two apprentices as they were questioned by a slimy-looking government agent—Spandine, the head of CP5. Spandine was here to arrest Tom on charges of aiding the Pirate King by building him the infamous Oro Jackson.

"You admit to building a ship for Roger, don't you?" Spandine sneered, barely hiding his contempt.

Tom didn't flinch. "Aye, that ship was my work," he said proudly. "The Oro Jackson was one of the finest ships ever built, and I won't deny it."

Spandine's eyes glinted with satisfaction. "Good. That makes you an accomplice to the Pirate King. You're coming with me to Enies Lobby for trial," he declared, waving a hand for his agents to advance.

But just then, a calm yet commanding voice called out, "Hold it right there."

Spandine turned, annoyed at the interruption, until he saw who it was. His face instantly went through a series of expressions: shock, panic, and then forced respect. He bent his spine in a deep bow, plastering on an obsequious smile. "Your Highness Claudius! What brings you here?"

Claudius approached casually, hands in his pockets and a small smirk on his face. "Oh, Spandine, I came to see Tom. I heard he's the best shipwright in these waters, and I want him to build a ship for me. Now, is that a problem?"

Spandine stammered, immediately dropping any mention of Tom's supposed crimes. "No, no, not at all, Your Highness! It's… it's absolutely convenient. Too convenient!"

Claudius raised an eyebrow, barely containing his amusement at Spandine's groveling. "Good to hear. So, Tom, what do you say? Care to build a ship for me?"

Tom looked at Claudius, surprise flickering in his eyes. He hadn't expected a Celestial Dragon to intervene, let alone request his services. "Aye, Your Highness, I'd be honored to build a ship for you," he replied, his voice steady despite the strange turn of events.

Claudius smiled warmly. "Perfect. Then it's settled. Spandine, you wouldn't want to interfere with such an arrangement, would you?"

Spandine shook his head frantically, forcing another grin. "No, no interference at all, Your Highness. In fact, we'll clear out immediately. Don't want to inconvenience you."

"Excellent," Claudius replied, his tone both a dismissal and a subtle reminder of his authority.

"Now that that's handled, let's talk about this ship I want. I hear you're the best, so I'll leave the details in your hands. But I want it to be something… exceptional."

Tom grinned, his pride as a shipwright reignited. "Aye, Your Highness. Exceptional, you say? Then you've come to the right man."

Claudius chuckled, pleased. "Good. Let's get started, then."