"Absolutely! Absolutely not!"
Higuma immediately placed one hand over his chest and raised the other high. "I swear! I'll keep my word!"
"Fine, then it's settled."
Noah looked at Luffy and smiled. "Remember to come by the tavern tomorrow and help Miss Makino count the money."
"Don't worry, Uncle!" Luffy nodded vigorously, then suddenly realized something. "Huh? What about you, Uncle?"
"I'm leaving tonight. How would I have time to wait around here?" Noah shrugged. "Smoker and the others are leaving too. They still have to report for duty."
"Ehh—"
Luffy dragged out the sound, full of reluctance. "You're leaving so soon? Can't you stay in Foosha Village for a few more days?"
"Official duties. Can't be helped."
Noah smiled and rubbed Luffy's head. After offering a few more words of comfort, he turned to Higuma, who had his head lowered as if lost in thought, and said flatly:
"Still not leaving? Waiting for us to invite you to dinner?"
Higuma jumped in fright and nodded frantically. He led his subordinates away amid endless thanks.
The instant he crossed the threshold, he narrowed his eyes, a cold sneer flashing through them.
Night fell. At the entrance to Foosha Village.
Noah and his group looked back. The small figure on the hillside was still standing there, waving constantly, unwilling to leave.
"That kid's character is pretty good."
Smoker said softly, "As for his strength, after being trained by Mr. Garp, he's far beyond children his age. He's just a little too naive and innocent..."
"He's a child, after all."
Hina smiled, not too concerned. Out of habit, she pulled out a cigarette and was about to light it, but suddenly pinched it out and crushed it beneath her foot. Guiltily, she secretly glanced at Noah.
"Let's go."
Noah did not