Chapter 298: Robin's Curiosity
(T/N: There is now a p.atreon for this work, and any new work I add will be dropped there first. check it out for an early release of up to 30 chapters edited smoothly. https://www.p.atreon.com/INeedRest)
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In a cafe, Nico Robin sat leisurely at a dining table, holding a book in her hands.
She savored the peaceful afternoon, the golden rays of sunlight filtering through the window, casting a warm glow over her figure.
Her charm as an intellectual beauty emanated effortlessly, a calm presence in the room.
Although her employer had changed, Robin's life had remained much the same.
If anything, it had become more relaxed.
Previously, when working under Crocodile as the vice president of Baroque Works, she had been overwhelmed with tasks, leaving her little time to enjoy books or quiet moments. However, ever since Kisame had defeated Crocodile, the agency's activities had come to a halt.
Kisame, unlike other bosses, showed no interest in power or wealth, only in becoming stronger.
With little to worry about other than ensuring Robin didn't escape, Kisame spent his days training.
Meanwhile, Crocodile, having lost everything, drowned himself in alcohol, seemingly having given up.
This granted Robin the freedom to indulge in a slower pace of life, spending her days reading in the café that once served as the Baroque Works' intelligence department, now with a "Closed for Renovations" sign hanging outside.
"It wouldn't be so bad if Kisame-san is really my new boss," Robin muttered to herself, glancing out the window at the bustling streets.
Having switched employers numerous times, Robin knew well that a boss's personality shaped her lifestyle.
Kisame, though intimidating in combat, treated her politely, and Robin's curiosity about him and his mysterious boss grew.
However, any time she asked about who this boss was and his intentions, Kisame would smile cryptically and say, "Don't try to guess God's intentions. Just sit there and behave."
'God? Could he possibly mean a Celestial Dragon?'
Robin quickly dismissed the thought—if they were involved, she would likely be dead already. Or worse, she would end up wishing she died…
As Robin pondered this, the door's wind chime sounded, signaling someone had entered the cafe.
"Sorry, the shop is closed for renovations," Robin called out, frowning slightly.
She had clearly posted the sign, so why had someone come in?
"Oh, we're not here for coffee," a voice responded.
Curious, Robin turned her head to look.
A man stood there, his face certainly striking, drawing her gaze even as the girl beside him faded into the background.
Even with Robin's practiced composure, she found herself admiring his charming appearance for a moment.
Still, she maintained her professional smile.
"If you're not here for coffee, then what can I help you with?" she asked.
The man, with a faint smile, responded, "I'm here looking for someone. He told me to come here."
Robin's smile faltered slightly, but her curiosity was piqued.
"Perhaps your friend made a mistake."
"I don't think so. His name is Kisame, and he assured me that I could find him here, Robin-san"
Robin's expression shifted subtly as she adjusted her posture.
She couldn't ignore this visitor now. He knew Kisame, and knew her… that could possibly mean that he was the boss of Kisame.
"I see. Follow me, then."
On the way to Crocodile's residence, Robin stole glances at the man who had introduced himself as Colt.
"Robin-san, do I have something on my face?" Colt asked suddenly, startling Robin from her thoughts.
"No, I'm just curious about you," she replied quickly.
"After all, Kisame-san referred to you as 'God'."
"Huh?" Nami, the girl accompanying Colt, looked at him with wide, astonished eyes.
She had been quiet throughout their exchange but now seemed thoroughly confused.
"Why would he call you a God?"
Colt merely chuckled and ruffled Nami's hair.
"Don't overthink it," he said softly.
"Kisame is often weird with the way he talks."
Robin smiled politely but remained quiet as she led them to their destination.
'So, he is his boss…'
Before long, they arrived, and Kisame was already waiting for them.
As Colt approached, Kisame stepped forward and bowed slightly.
"Colt-sama," Kisame greeted him with respect.
"Good work," Colt replied, his gaze assessing Kisame.
"You've made good progress."
Kisame grinned, his demeanor humble despite his immense strength.
"Barely enough to meet your expectations. It's the least I can do" Kisame was humble.
He had always been loyal to Colt and truly did consider him as a god. After all, when he was lost, he was the one that guided him.
And it wasn't weird to him, because Colt could beat the sage of six paths and the Progenitor of chakra Kaguya.
Colt nodded, then said casually, "Bring Crocodile here."
It didn't take long for Kisame to drag Crocodile forward.
The once-proud "Shichibukai Crocodile" glared at Colt, eyes filled with suspicion.
He had heard nothing about this man who apparently held such power.
As Colt approached, Crocodile felt a chill run down his spine.
This kid was supposed to be the one behind Kisame? Doubt filled his mind, but before he could act on it and say anything, Colt raised a hand.
"[Shinra Tensei]," Colt murmured, and with a sudden force, Crocodile was flung into the air, his body crashing against an invisible barrier.
Unable to defend himself, he was injured and blood leaked from his mouth.
Colt moved his fingers slightly, and black vines, wrapped in a Haki, erupted from the ground, binding Crocodile tightly.
"Now," Colt said calmly as he walked toward his captive, "Are you ready to listen to my proposition?"
Crocodile, mouth covered by the vines, struggled to speak, but it was futile.
Colt didn't wait for a response.
"It doesn't matter if you're ready or not, I was just saying for the dramatic effect," Colt said quietly, dispersing the vines.
"If you try anything again, you will die."
Freed, Crocodile dropped to his knees, head bowed in submission.
Though taller than Colt, he now seemed much smaller.
Robin watched, fascinated by the stark contrast between Colt's gentle demeanor moments ago and the ruthless display of power she had just witnessed.
Nami, for her part, seemed unfazed, having grown accustomed to such sights.
Colt, satisfied with the outcome, decided to leave Crocodile be for now.
After all, there were still ways the former Shichibukai could be of use.