However, because he possessed the blueprints of Pluton, he was framed by the government spy chief, Spandam, who accused him of attacking the Judicial Ship, and was eventually brought to Judicial Island and executed.
It's truly regrettable.
"Let's go, it's time to head down."
Shano said.
Having understood why the island had become prosperous again, there wasn't much reason to stay atop the tower any longer.
Everyone followed him down the stairs, preparing to split up and explore the island for places of interest.
Robin wanted to visit the island's culinary museum, Zeff was going to purchase ingredients, Smoker needed to replenish his cigars, while Nami and Nojiko simply wanted to feast on the food street...
In short, everyone had their own plans.
But, just as they were about to act separately, a hearty laugh suddenly echoed from the opposite street.
"Hey, what's going on, it really took some time to find you, Shano, so you're here!"
The voice belonged to a tall red-haired man wearing a captain's hat, nearly three meters tall, draped in a crimson cloak, with two jagged scimitars at his waist.
He swaggered over with both hands in his pockets, laughing loudly, mimicking a certain Flamingo's arrogant stride.
Behind him marched a formidable entourage of over a hundred men, each looking fierce and not to be trifled with.
"Stop right there."
Kuina stepped forward, drew the Wado Ichimonji with a swish, and blocked their path, expressionless, "What do you want?"
"Oh dear, no need to be so scary, Kuina sis, we're on the same side!"
The red-haired man laughed even more brightly, raising his arms dramatically to show he meant no harm, and said with a friendly grin:
"Everyone, let me introduce myself first, I'm 'Blood Saw' Jax! With a bounty of 112 million Belly, commanding a big fleet with over a thousand men, among this year's rookie captains entering the Grand Line, I'm the most dazzling Super Rookie!"
"Of course, that can't be compared to you, Shano."
The red-haired man looked at Shano again, "Even before entering the New World, your bounty is already at a stunning billion, you've been my dream idol since childhood. As soon as I heard you were on this island, I rushed over without a second thought!"
"From the way you talk..."
Smoker, with a cigar in his mouth, raised an eyebrow, "Are you thinking of joining my boss?"
"Exactly, Sir Smoker!"
Jax grinned widely, baring a row of stark white teeth, "I've come this time with utmost sincerity, seeking allegiance!"
"Guys!"
He waved his hand, and his subordinates immediately brought over more than ten large chests, which landed with a clang as they were opened.
— Inside were piles of gold and silver treasures, glittering under the sunlight.
"..."
Predicting this routine, Nami let out a bored yawn, quietly tugging at Nojiko to pull her along to visit the restaurants, but was met with a shushing gesture from Nojiko, who wanted to stay and witness the show.
"This is everything I've plundered since entering the Grand Line from the West Sea!"
Jax, not noticing this, patted his chest and declared boldly:
"As long as Shano nods his head in agreement, allowing me to join, from today, my life belongs to you! My fleet, my officers, and all the treasures I've seized are at your command!"
Isn't this sincerity enough!
As a fellow pirate, he couldn't believe Shano wouldn't be tempted!
As for why he was willing to pay such a big price to join...
It's very simple.
Even Super Rookies need backing!
He was preparing to head to the Shampodi Islands, and once the coating was done, he'd proceed directly to the New World.
In such perilous places, relying on himself alone was not enough to survive.
Luck was on his side today, as he happened to encounter such an opportunity, he had to seize it!
Looking across the first half of the Grand Line, this was the strongest connection possible, without a doubt.
Following Shano, he too could soon become a figure who shakes the New World, like Kuina, Smoker, and the others.
Even if Shano was defeated by the Four Emperors after entering the New World and forced to submit, he'd likely be promoted to a second or third-in-command tier position right away.
And he, as a senior on the ship, his status would naturally rise with it!
"Why is he grinning so foolishly?" Watching the red-haired man drool with a silly laugh, Nami quietly asked Nojiko beside her.
"He's probably fantasizing again."
Nojiko shrugged, then turned to Shano, "Brother, what do you think?"
"Considering his attitude isn't bad, let's just tell him to scram." Shano shook his head slightly, not interested, "Let's go, let's do our own things."
"Alright." Nojiko nodded, unsurprised.
She was about to step forward and wave them away.
But Ah Yin, who had been holding back, finally couldn't contain himself. He sniffed the air, followed the scent to stand before the red-haired man, and stared at the pouch hanging from his waist, a low growl coming from his throat.
Hmm?
What's wrong with this dog?
Jax was taken aback by Ah Yin's behavior and instinctively took half a step back, but quickly forced a smile, obsequiously looking at Shano:
"Shano, your pet is quite fierce..."
Before he finished speaking, Ah Yin suddenly lunged, biting into the bulging pouch and tearing it off forcefully.
Rip—
The pouch ripped open, and several young girls' heads—neatly severed and devoid of any blood—rolled to the ground, their eyes stared blankly at the sky.
"!!!"
The local residents who had gathered to watch the commotion were instantly thrown into an uproar.