Since the Great Pirate Era began, countless people had rushed out to sea in pursuit of their dreams.
The number of pirates had surged.
Among them, quite a few pirates had truly set out for the great treasure, but even more had taken advantage of the trend to commit evil.
They burned, killed, and looted—not for their dreams, but simply to make their own lives better.
Under their influence, many of the traditions and rituals among pirates had gradually faded into obscurity.
The solemnity and sense of ceremony Brook had displayed before joining the crew was rarely seen in this era.
At least during Brook's time, such behavior had been essential. In a sense, it could even be called sacred.
That was right.
Calling it sacred was no exaggeration.
Because from Brook's standpoint, this was undoubtedly a vow.
"I'm Brook, a dead man reduced to bones. My head is worth a paltry sum, and I'm known as Humming Brook. My bounty is thirty million Beli."
"I used to be the captain of a guard unit in a certain country. Later, I joined the Rumbar Pirates. I served as the acting captain, musician, and swordsman, and I was proficient in Swift Sword Style."
"From this day forward, I entrust my life to Maud, captain of the Maud Pirates. I won't hesitate to throw myself to the winds, yohoho."
After completing his joining oath with considerable formality, Brook let out his signature laugh.
Such a serious and solemn display instead made Maud feel somewhat uncomfortable, but it also gave him a glimpse of the unique flavor of the previous era that Brook embodied.
"Welcome."
Maud helped Brook to his feet.
With that, the Maud Pirates welcomed a new member.
"Yohoho! Although my current bounty is only thirty million, I definitely won't hold