Even the remnants of the Red Earth Continent are joining this war. The situation is becoming increasingly complex.
Nicholas, lost in thought on the deck, suddenly sensed a ship approaching nearby.
In the New World, danger levels are on a different scale compared to the first half of the Grand Line, so he remained vigilant with his Color of Observation Haki activated.
Upon sensing the approaching ship, Nicholas opened his eyes and appeared at the ship's railing, gazing toward the incoming vessel.
The lookout and the captain of their ship quickly noticed Nicholas's actions. However, upon seeing the black flag flying on the approaching ship, everyone relaxed, some even with a hint of anticipation.
This flag, not famous in the first half of the Grand Line, holds significance in the New World. Whenever it appears, it signifies the possibility of acquiring valuable goods.
The flag, black with golden motifs, bears the image of a treasure chest, distinct from the most common pirate flags in the New World. It represents a mysterious consortium known as the Black Flag.
No one knows the location of the consortium's headquarters or its origins. Those familiar with the Black Flag understand that any ship flying its banner carries rare and valuable treasures.
These ships accept payment in Berry or barter with rare ores, prized swords, Devil Fruits, or even valuable slaves.
However, the defining characteristic of Black Flag vessels is their stash of explosive rocks. Once detonated, these unstable explosives cause catastrophic explosions, often destroying the ship and its valuable cargo, along with any nearby would-be raiders.
Even if raiders manage to evade the self-destructive attack, they face the consortium's relentless retaliation.
Despite lacking prominent figures, the Black Flag spares no expense in hiring bounty hunters or issuing high bounties to seek revenge.
Because of their propensity for mutual destruction, the Black Flag holds a reputation for being untouchable in the New World, maintaining a record of never having lost a single item in over fifty years.
As a result, the consortium is renowned, attracting pirates, black marketeers, nobles, and even governments for trade.
"Captain, they're signaling to inquire if we're open to trade," the flag bearer announced loudly, gesturing with the telescope. The captain, nominally in charge but ultimately deferent to Nicholas, looked to him for guidance.
"Signal back that we agree to trade," Nicholas replied promptly, and the flag bearer quickly relayed the message with semaphore flags.
Seeing Nicholas's response, the Black Flag vessel began to slow its approach, steering toward them.
Nicholas's ship dropped anchor, awaiting the arrival of the Black Flag vessel. He was intrigued by the prospect of trading with this consortium, especially since it would mark their first transaction.
Soon, the two ships drew near, and a figure with a golden mask emerged from the Black Flag vessel's cabin.
"Marhaba! What a fortunate day to encounter the renowned Nicholas unexpectedly. It seems today holds promise indeed. Would you be interested in a pleasant transaction with us, Mr. Nicholas?" The masked figure was greeted warmly.
"Better come aboard my ship first. I don't want any misunderstandings with your lot," Nicholas replied without hesitation.
"Marhaba! Of course, Mr. Nicholas," the masked figure responded, stepping onto the plank to reach Nicholas's vessel.
"Mr. Nicholas, here's the inventory I've brought this time, along with the goods our other members have. Please take a look and let me know if anything catches your interest," the merchant said, producing a massive catalog seemingly hidden within his cloak.
"Feel free to browse, Mr. Guest. If you find anything you like or have any questions, I'd be happy to assist you," the merchant added, handing the catalog to Nicholas.
Nicholas took the catalog and began perusing it, selecting items of interest. Meanwhile, the ship's captain also discreetly observed, hoping to find an opportunity to purchase a treasure and profit from it, though he abandoned the idea upon seeing the prices listed in the catalog, realizing he couldn't afford any of them.
In no time, Nicholas found the items he desired, including a set of valuable medical books.
"Mr. Nicholas, you have excellent taste. These notes are from a kingdom with advanced medical technology, left behind by a renowned physician. They contain unique insights into bacteria, and some of the intricate surgical techniques they describe are now lost," the merchant explained.
Nicholas simply nodded in acknowledgment.
"I'll take it," he stated, moving on to find another item he needed.
"I'll also take the 50-meter-long, 3-meter-thick Adam Wood. Can you deliver it to Tom's workshop in the capital, Water 7?" Nicholas inquired.
The merchant took out a price list from his cloak and calculated it carefully.
"Mr. Nicholas, considering the distance from the New World to Water 7 and the difficulty of transport, the delivery cost would be 10 million Berry. Is that acceptable to you?" The merchant explained, adding, "And if any issues arise during transport, we'll compensate you five times the value of the goods."
Nicholas paused, surprised by the offer of compensation.
"Rest assured, Mr. Guest. We value our reputation," the merchant reassured him.
Satisfied with the explanation, Nicholas agreed, deciding to have a representative named Stussy handle the payment upon delivery of the goods.
"Thank you for your generosity. Here's to hoping for better cooperation in the future," the Black Flag merchant exclaimed warmly.
Just as Nicholas knew the Black Flag would deliver the goods, the consortium knew they would receive payment, for no one had ever defaulted on payments owed to the Black Flag.