Chapter 158: Fujitora Joins the Crew

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The Underworld River was perpetually shrouded in darkness, the eerie, boundless sea exuding an aura of terror. Yet, within the brightly lit castle of Thriller Bark, the home of its eccentric master, a strangely cozy atmosphere prevailed.

At the banquet hosted for the Kuja Pirates, both the Underworld & Kuja Pirates were buzzing with anticipation.

They had expected a dramatic showdown, a real-life soap opera, but the main character in question, Noir, was remarkably oblivious, happily enjoying his meal amidst the charged atmosphere.

Robin gracefully served him food, a smug smile playing on her lips.

She knew Noir well. They had been together for so long, and he hadn't shown any romantic interest in anyone else. How could he be so easily swayed?

Despite her confidence, a pang of insecurity tugged at her heart...

Conis, feeding Suu a small treat, blinked innocently. "It seems like Robin doesn't really like Empress Hancock."

Kalifa, adjusting her glasses, chuckled wryly. "Well, Robin's feelings for the Captain are quite..."

Manlyph, the giantess, poked her head in through the window, her voice soft. "I think it's pretty obvious too... The Captain wouldn't be interested in Giants, would he?"

Kalifa's eyebrows twitched. "I... I don't know...?"

"But Captain is quite handsome, and he has such a great personality," Conis added with a cheerful smile as she passed a plate of food to Manlyph.

Kalifa sighed discreetly.

Besides Robin, Conis also had a soft spot for Noir. And there were others...

As the lively banquet progressed, the focus seemed to shift. Not much food was consumed, but a significant portion of the guests became quite intoxicated.

When everyone was finally tired, Noir, seemingly unaffected by the festivities, arranged rooms for the Kuja Pirates. Hancock retired to a side chamber to rest.

Noir dismissed his own crew as well, and the hall fell silent.

Suddenly, a rhythmic tapping sound echoed from the floor, growing closer and closer, heading towards Noir.

Noir smiled, his eyes lighting up. "So, have you made your decision? Will you join us?"

Noir had offered Issho, aka Fujitora, a place on Thriller Bark. The blind swordsman seemingly lost in deep thought.

Issho's stern face reflected a mixture of emotions, but after a moment, he spoke with firm resolve. "I admire your methods, and I am willing to join your crew."

Just as Noir was about to celebrate, Issho continued, "However, I have three conditions. As long as you abide by them, I swear my loyalty."

So, if our ideals clash, he'll leave without hesitation?

Interesting...

Noir's eyes narrowed, his smile fading as he turned serious. "Tell me your conditions."

"First, your pirate crew will undoubtedly engage in profitable ventures. But I ask that your business dealings have a moral compass. No slave trading, and absolutely no child trafficking!"

That was a given. Once Noir established his kingdom, he would certainly engage in commerce.

But slave trading and child trafficking were lines he would never cross.

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