Chapter 135: - 135: The Capital Challenge Match
The Golden Ark hovered directly over the Flower Capital, its imposing presence drawing the attention of many samurai below. Most of their gazes were filled with a barely restrained anger.
To be so brazen above their general’s head... Had it not been so high in the sky—and directly over the capital—some of the top swordsmen would’ve already sent a few flying slashes its way.
"This match against the warriors of Wano is meant to help us study the technique of Ryuo. Try not to rely on your Devil Fruit abilities. If even one of you manages to master external Armament Haki, then we can teach and refine the technique ourselves!"
Brook had great faith in his crew. But just in case no one managed to awaken Ryuo, he had a backup plan—draw out warriors who already possessed the skill during this tournament.
And once those warriors appeared, they’d be captured. With Redfield’s unique Observation Haki and the memory-seahorse, Brook was confident they’d unlock the secrets of Ryuo eventually.
This tournament also served to bolster the name of the Hell Pirates. At the same time, they could assess how many true sword masters Wano had to offer—and maybe even secure a deal to purchase Seastone. After all, Brook wasn’t short on Belly.
If the samurai of Wano turned out to be weaker than expected, Brook wouldn’t hesitate to pressure them into an unequal treaty.
NovelFire
If not for the fact that Wano’s samurai were fanatically loyal—and prone to rebellion—he might’ve considered outright subjugation.
Since only Wano’s craftsmen knew how to refine Seastone, Brook wasn’t looking to burn bridges completely. If the supply chain was disrupted, that would be troublesome.
But if they proved too uncooperative, he wasn’t above borrowing a page from Kaido’s playbook—installing a puppet ruler and enslaving the country.
...
The Golden Ark began to descend. A Den Den Mushi loudspeaker extended from its hull, playing a relaxed, soothing tune that seemed to calm even the most tense samurai.