"What does it matter~? I'm not going to let you take me to Laugh Tale."
Shanks pulled a long face, thinking Austin was worried he would cheat by skipping the collection of Poneglyphs and reaching the Final Island directly through the Roger Pirates' efforts.
Though he had no idea that Austin really did possess an Eternal Pointer to Laugh Tale.
"No need. You should know my personality, Shanks."
With his hands in his pockets, Austin turned back with a faint smile.
"Even if, at the right time in the future, I help someone obtain the Great Treasure, it definitely won't be you.
If the two of us really joined forces, then the New Era Captain Roger created with his life would truly turn into a pile of crap. There'd be no suspense at all—it'd be duller than stagnant water."
"That would be so boring~"
Whether it was Shanks or the future King Luffy, Austin had never really considered joining forces with them or becoming part of their crews.
It wasn't because he disliked them. It was just that...
They already possessed the potential to become kings, as well as companions whose strength matched that potential.
Adding flowers to brocade was nothing compared to offering charcoal in the snow.
"Alright... what a pity..."
Hearing Austin say that, Shanks seemed to recall something. This guy had always been like that.
Captain Roger had once told him that, with Austin's personality, he would definitely become a troublemaker on the seas someday.
"Come to think of it, Shanks, when are you planning to return to the Holy Land?"
As though he had suddenly remembered, Austin asked Shanks beside him.
But the unexpected question startled Shanks.
His mouth fell slightly open as he stared at the calm Austin in shock.
"How... how did you know