One Piece: I'm not Roger

Having obtained the desired title, Aether turned around with a radiant expression and said,

"Great nephew, what do you want to discuss with me?"

When it came to serious matters, Dragon temporarily set aside the shadows of the past and asked cautiously,

"Uncle Roger, what is your view on the future of the World Government and ordinary people?"

"If you ask me that, I have quite a lot to say. First, you must understand slave society, feudal society, capitalist society, and communist society, and also…"

The unfamiliar terms from Aether left Dragon stunned. Although he was confused, he did not interrupt and chose to listen carefully.

Aether then explained his understanding using the history and political evolution of Earth. Hearing such a detailed breakdown of society and its structure for the first time made Dragon's eyes gradually brighten with interest.

Their conversation lasted five hours before it finally came to an end. During that time, the title "Uncle Roger" became increasingly natural on Dragon's lips. After being exposed to Aether's knowledge, the leader of the Revolutionary Army truly began to regard him as a respected elder.

At times, Dragon would recall that his father had once adopted Ace as a grandson, that he himself called Aether "Uncle Roger," that Garp and Roger were old friends of the same generation, and that his own son and Roger's son were sworn brothers. The web of relationships left him feeling increasingly complicated.

…

The sun gradually sank beneath the horizon, disappearing into the deep sea, while faint moonlight spilled across the deck, illuminating Aether's thoughtful expression.

Their discussion on revolution and society had already concluded, and Dragon had left the merchant ship to attend to his own matters.

They did not discuss forming any alliance, but their exchange gave Dragon a new perspective on the meaning of "revolution." Although Aether's understanding was not fully detailed or complete, the knowledge he shared still broadened Dragon's horizons significantly.

At the same time, it made Aether clearly recognize the revolutionary spirit within Dragon. Although his ideals were somewhat simple, his dedication to them was worthy of respect.

At that moment, a pair of long, white, jade-like legs entered Aether's view. Looking upward, he saw a short skirt above a slender waist, and a pair of gentle curves partially obscuring an exquisite face.

As the saying goes, one can understand a woman by observing her eyes alone. From those intelligent, brilliant eyes, it was clear that the person who had arrived was Nico Robin.

Nico Robin sat beside Aether with a curious expression and asked,

"Aether, what did you talk about with Mr. Dragon? He looked quite happy when he left. I don't think I've ever seen that before."

Aether glanced at Robin's inquisitive expression and replied indifferently,

"Nothing much. I simply shared my views on revolution and human society with him."

Robin tucked her hair behind her ear and lifted her head slightly, revealing an elegant neck. She too seemed intrigued by the subject.

"Then can you tell me as well? I would like to hear your thoughts on the future."

Looking at the expectant expression on the beauty's face, Aether sighed inwardly. Having to explain revolution and society again was rather troublesome.

"No problem. Let's talk while we drink. Do you want to start with slave society, feudal society, capitalist society, communist society, or finance and economics?"

"…?"

Robin paused, clearly unfamiliar with these terms, yet they carried an air of depth that made them feel significant even without understanding.

Aether began explaining the early development of human society. Of course, this referred to Earth's history. As for the history of the pirate world, even Roger only understood fragments of it.

Not to mention the hidden truth of the Great Kingdom from a thousand years ago, the Void Century, and the eight-hundred-year history of the World Government, none of it was fully understood.

While Robin listened intently, Aether retrieved the newly acquired fairy butterfly immortal flask. Since they were companions, sharing fine wine was only natural. As for why he had not taken it out earlier during his conversation with Dragon, between a stern man and a charming woman, the answer was obvious without needing to say it.

The moment the immortal brew was poured, a rich fragrance filled the air, accompanied by a silvery glow that bathed the surroundings in a soft, romantic light.

"What an incredible sight."

Robin lifted the glass, mesmerized by the crystal-clear immortal brew. The liquid emitted an almost enchanting aura, and even her body seemed to respond to it instinctively. It was clear this wine had remarkable benefits.

As someone well-traveled and knowledgeable, Robin had never encountered anything like it before. Even before tasting it, she could tell it was extraordinary, and she hesitated slightly before asking,

"Is it really alright to share something like this with me?"

"Isn't that what friends do? Or do you not consider me one?"

"We are friends."

Aether's steady tone eased Robin's hesitation. She gently brought the glass to her lips and took a small sip.

The moment the immortal brew entered her mouth, Robin's expression changed. A faint blush appeared on her face, and an expression of pure delight spread across her features.

"Mmm…"

A soft, involuntary sound escaped her lips, causing Aether to stiffen slightly in place. Without explanation, anyone might have misunderstood the situation entirely.

Time passed as Robin savored the drink, while Aether quietly observed her reaction from across the table.

When she finally regained her composure, Robin quickly covered her mouth, realizing her earlier reaction had been somewhat improper.

Noticing Aether's slightly intense gaze, she gave him a shy, sideways glance and said,

"Aether, just one sip made me feel lighter, and a warm current keeps flowing through my body. It feels wonderful. Besides the taste, this wine must have other effects, right?"

"Yes. The fairy butterfly immortal brew can preserve youth, enhance beauty, and strengthen the body while extending lifespan. One cup can increase a person's lifespan by one month."

Upon hearing that it could preserve youth, enhance beauty, and extend life, Robin's entire body trembled slightly.

She parted her lips in disbelief, staring at the small glass in her hand. A single cup could extend life by a month, and suddenly the glass felt unusually heavy in her grasp.

===

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