One Piece: I Have a Billion Skill Points

In the bank's VIP room, Ron and the others sat comfortably, savoring the local drinks of Water 7 and sampling pastries, accompanied by the bank's manager.

"When will the appraisal and valuation of the gold be complete?" Ron asked, sipping his drink.

"Mr. Ron, please wait a moment. The gold you brought is exceptionally large and heavy, so it may take a bit longer than usual," the manager replied, wiping sweat from his brow. "Rest assured, the appraisal should be quick, and we guarantee a fair valuation."

Ron nodded and picked up a pastry, offering it to Aisa at his side. "Here, try this. It's delicious!"

"Thank you, Brother Ron!" Aisa beamed, taking the pastry and tasting it. "Mmm, it's really good!"

Soon after, two elderly appraisers entered the room, both experts in valuation and identification. Although it was their first time assessing such a massive quantity of gold, they managed to complete the task after some time.

The two appraisers whispered in the ear of Chris, the bank's Manager, before stepping back. Chris turned to Ron with a respectful smile.

"Mr. Ron, our appraisers have finished their assessment!" Chris announced. "The valuation for the gold you brought is 2.6 billion Berries, which is the highest offer we can provide. Does that sound fair to you?"

"Oh?" Ron kept his composure, subtly stopping Nami before she could speak. "You should be aware of my reputation, correct?"

"Of course, of course!" Chris stammered, clearly nervous. "Mr. Ron is highly esteemed—renowned across the Grand Line for his strength and accomplishments."

"I overheard your appraisers mention a valuation of 2.8 billion. Cutting it down by 200 million as a 'favor' is insulting," Ron said with a calm but piercing smile. "Are you trying to shortchange me, or does your bank simply not want my business? I'm not an unreasonable man, but if that's the case, I'll take my business elsewhere."

"No, no, please stay!" Chris paled, realizing the gravity of his error. "2.8 billion it is! We'll prepare the cash right away. Please bear with us—it's a significant sum, so gathering it will take some time."

"Fine, but make it quick," Ron replied, waving his hand dismissively.

As Chris exited, wiping sweat from his forehead, Nami gave Ron a curious look. "Why didn't you let me speak up? I'm sure our gold is worth more than 2.8 billion, right?"

"I estimate the value is close to 3 billion, but because of its bulk, the bank needs some margin. So, 2.8 billion is reasonable."

Nami frowned slightly. "Still, losing over a hundred million Berries… it's frustrating!"

"Consider it a small price for convenience," Ron chuckled. "Besides, isn't 2.8 billion enough to satisfy you?"

"Maybe, but… when we get the money, I'll be the one managing it, right?" Nami smiled mischievously.

"Yes, yes, you can manage all of it," Ron sighed, rubbing his forehead. Nami was officially taking charge of the crew's finances—a role she relished.

"Perfect!" Nami laughed, visibly pleased.

"Sister Nami, with all this money, does that mean we'll have to request approval for spending?" Aisa asked, her eyes wide with wonder.

"Of course!" Nami replied, lifting her chin. "So you'd better be on your best behavior if you want spending privileges."

"We'll be good!" Aisa and the others quickly raised their hands in unison, drawing amused smiles from everyone else.

After some time, Chris returned with a group of bank employees, each carrying several suitcases. Bowing respectfully, he announced, "Mr. Ron, your cash is ready! We've prepared twenty-eight suitcases, each containing a hundred million Berries. Would you like to verify it?"

"I'll do it!" Nami eagerly stepped forward, opening each suitcase and counting the contents.

Ron watched her, chuckling as he said, "You can trust the count. If they've tried any tricks, I'll come back and level the place."

Chris and his employees flinched at Ron's words. Chris thought to himself, Thank goodness I didn't attempt anything shady. Offending this man could cost us more than just the bank.

"All set!" Nami nodded with a satisfied smile. "Shall we head out now?"

"Sure," Ron replied, glancing at the others. "Didn't you all want to go shopping?"

"Yes, shopping time!" Aisa and the others cheered, each picking up a suitcase or two. Ron himself grabbed two as they left the bank. Chris and the bank employees escorted them to the door with utmost respect.

"Mr. Ron, we look forward to serving you again in the future!" Chris and his team called out, bowing as Ron and his crew exited.

Ron gave a casual wave. "Sure, I'll keep that in mind."

Outside, some townsfolk had dispersed, but a few shady onlookers lingered, watching Ron and his group with gleaming eyes.

"Look at all those boxes they're carrying!" muttered one sharp-faced man, excitement dancing in his eyes. "If each box holds 100 million Berries, that's 2.8 billion in total!"

The man called out to his boss, but when he turned, he saw the boss and their crew gawking at Ron, eyes glinting with greed.

The boss finally snapped out of his daze. "This is our golden opportunity. Once they turn the corner, we strike. Forget about those women; focus on the money. With that kind of cash, we could buy nobility, live like kings!"

His gang cheered, visions of wealth dancing in their heads. They readied their weapons, hiding in an alley near the corner Ron and his group were approaching.

As Ron's group neared the intersection, the boss grinned and shouted, "Move in, boys! Let's get rich!"

"Charge!" his gang roared, surging forward with greed in their eyes.