Chapter 169: Shirahoshi

Chapter 169: Shirahoshi

Hearing Enel’s question, Noir subtly gave him a thumbs-up and discreetly leaned in to listen.

Vander Decken IX was infatuated with Princess Shirahoshi. Consumed by possessive jealousy, he used his Mato Mato no Mi powers to target her, causing weapons to constantly fly from afar and injure her.

Noir hadn't been sure how to bring up Shirahoshi, but now that Enel had raised the question, he could inquire more naturally.

Neptune sighed at Enel’s question. "That's my daughter. She's been cursed, so weapons often fly at her, causing her harm."

Ace, having recovered somewhat, joined the conversation, curious. "Your daughter? So, she's the princess? Why haven't you dealt with the culprit? Wouldn't that solve the problem?"

Jinbe answered for Neptune. "The man's name is Vander Decken IX. He's a Devil Fruit user, and it's difficult to track him down."

Issho, listening intently, offered his sympathy. "I imagine your daughter has suffered greatly."

Neptune sighed heavily, his gaze downcast. "To protect Shirahoshi, I've confined her to Hard-Shell Tower. It's been almost seven years..."

Enel shuddered. Seven years in one place? That mermaid princess must have incredible patience.

Noir, sensing the opportunity, spoke. "Could I meet Princess Shirahoshi?"

Neptune hesitated, wanting to refuse. "But if we open the gates of Hard-Shell Tower, I fear..."

Noir scoffed. "That Devil Fruit ability? Unless he throws an entire island at us, it's useless against me."

Jinbe nodded in agreement. "Indeed, Your Majesty. I've returned to the palace. I can assist Noir."

With two Warlord-level powerhouses offering their support, Neptune's worries eased. He made up his mind. "Very well. Follow me."

Noir, inwardly pleased, followed Neptune to the depths of the Ryugu Palace. They arrived before an incredibly well-hidden, enormous castle.

Wyper gaped at the towering structure. "Fit for a princess, indeed! This place is huge!"

Jinbe opened his mouth, then hesitated. This place might seem large, but it’s actually just Princess Shirahoshi's bedroom...

The gates of Hard-Shell Tower were littered with swords, knives, and other sharp weapons.

And in the distance, another volley of deadly projectiles hurtled towards them.

Issho frowned slightly, about to use his abilities to stop the incoming weapons when Noir raised a hand to stop him.

"Hmph!"

A wave of crimson energy erupted from Noir, forming a barrier that repelled all the flying objects.

Neptune gently patted Shirahoshi's head, guilt tugging at his heart. "They rescued many fish-men and merfolk. They are friends, Shirahoshi."

Shirahoshi nodded nervously, her eyes darting towards Noir and the others.

When she saw them looking back at her, she quickly averted her gaze.

Noir, wanting to ease the tension, smiled gently and extended a hand. "My name is Noir. I'm the captain of the Underworld Pirates."

Shirahoshi flinched slightly at Noir's outstretched hand and looked at her father for reassurance.

Neptune gave her an encouraging nod, and Shirahoshi hesitantly extended her own hand, her "delicate" fingers brushing against Noir's.

Noir breathed a sigh of relief. It had been a long time, even considering his previous life, since he'd encountered such a shy girl.

Despite her size, Shirahoshi's gentle nature was endearing, especially to the women present.

Conis and Kalifa quickly struck up a conversation with Shirahoshi.

Though it was mostly Kalifa and Conis doing the talking, Shirahoshi listened attentively, her tense expression gradually softening into a smile. Neptune, seeing this, finally relaxed a little.

But his worry soon returned. He sighed. "I've failed Shirahoshi. I haven't been able to catch the culprit who torments her, forcing her to live in such a dangerous world, without even any friends!"

Noir tried to reassure him. "There's not much you can do. That Devil Fruit ability is truly troublesome."

Neptune nodded glumly. Robin nudged Noir's side and whispered, "Aren't you going to help her?"

Noir looked at her in surprise. "Why should I help her?"

"You specifically asked to meet Shirahoshi. Don't tell me you just wanted to chat?"

Noir scratched his head, chuckling evasively.

He'd come to meet Shirahoshi to copy her talent, of course. But he'd been a little... distracted... by her... other assets.

...

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