With Tesoro's personal invitation, Issho temporarily sent his soldiers back to the warship before following him into the casino.
The moment he stepped inside, a storm of noise crashed over him.
Cheers from winners.
Curses and sobs from those who had lost everything.
Tesoro quietly observed Issho from the side. Yet the man's expression never changed. That calm, easy smile stayed on his face as if nothing in the world could disturb him.
"Vice Admiral Issho, I've had five million in chips prepared for you. Please, enjoy yourself."
Issho accepted them with a warm laugh.
"You are too generous, Mr. Tesoro. Then I won't hold back."
Without hesitation, he walked off and chose a table at random.
Tesoro watched him leave, a faint sneer forming in his mind.
So he really is just a gambler.
Satisfied, he turned and headed upstairs, no longer paying Issho any attention.
What Tesoro did not know was this: when luck was not a factor, Issho's gambling skill was terrifying.
After a long, exhausting day, Tesoro gave a few quick orders to set the ship on course away from the Grant Kingdom, poured himself a drink, and fell asleep.
The night passed quietly.
Then
Bang! Bang! Bang!
"Lord Tesoro! Something's wrong! Please wake up!"
The urgent pounding on the door jolted him awake. His temples throbbed as irritation surged.
"Get in here and explain yourself! What now?!"
The door burst open. A subordinate rushed in, drenched in sweat.
"What happened?"
"Lord Tesoro… that Marine… that Marine is wrecking the casino!"
Tesoro's eyes narrowed.
"He's here to arrest someone?"
"N-No! He's still at the tables!"
Tesoro froze for a second.
"He's gambling? Then how is he wrecking anything?"
The man swallowed hard.
"He's been winning all night!"
"He's definitely suspicious, but we checked. There's no sign of cheating at all!"
Tesoro's anger flared, though he forced his voice low.
"How much has he won?"
"…Thirty billion Beli."
A sharp inhale.
Tesoro's mind snapped fully awake.
Thirty billion. In one night.
He dressed at once and rushed downstairs with his men.
Inside the casino, Issho sat calmly at a table piled high with chips. So many that they were spilling over the edges.
A faint, satisfied smile rested on his face.
It had been a long time since he had enjoyed himself like this.
Tesoro stopped beside him, staring at the mountain of chips. Even he, a man who had seen countless fortunes change hands, felt a chill run through him.
That was not luck. That was a disaster.
Issho noticed him and smiled.
"Ah, Mr. Tesoro. You're up early."
Tesoro's lips twitched. He forced a laugh.
"Vice Admiral Issho… are you enjoying yourself?"
Issho nodded.
"Haha, it's been a long time since I've had such a satisfying night. Your casino has truly brought back old memories."
Then he added, almost casually,
"I've decided. I'll be staying here for a while."
Tesoro's expression nearly cracked.
The surrounding staff froze.
Absolutely not.
One night had already cost him thirty billion. A few more nights and the entire casino would be emptied.
He suppressed the panic rising in his chest and coughed lightly.
"You must be tired after playing all night. Why not take a break? I'll arrange a fine meal and a luxury room for you. Once you're rested, you can continue. Your chips will remain untouched."
He had to stabilize the situation first.
Issho paused, thinking it over, then nodded.
"In that case, I'll accept your kindness."
Relief flickered in Tesoro's eyes. He turned, ready to lead the way
"However," Issho added, "I should cash out first. I can always come back tonight."
Tesoro nearly lost control on the spot.
Even now, he wants the money first?
He forced himself to stay composed.
Issho tilted his head slightly.
"Mr. Tesoro… don't tell me you're unable to pay?"
The entire casino fell silent.
All eyes turned toward Tesoro.
His face flushed.
"I am the Gold Emperor! What's thirty billion to me? Exchange it for him!"
A subordinate hesitated, trembling.
"L-Lord Tesoro… all thirty billion?"
Tesoro's voice dropped, each word heavy.
"Exchange. It."
"Yes, sir!"
Moments later, dozens of men returned, each carrying heavy cases.
"Lord Tesoro… thirty billion, as requested."
Tesoro nodded stiffly and looked at Issho.
"Vice Admiral Issho, please verify it."
Issho waved a hand dismissively.
"No need. I trust your reputation."
With that, he called his soldiers in. One by one, they carried the cases back to the warship.
"Haha! Mr. Tesoro, shall we? I could use some rest."
"…Let's go," Tesoro replied through clenched teeth.
As he watched the mountain of money disappear, it felt like his heart was being carved out piece by piece.
This was not over.