A Single Strike

Lafitte found a secluded corner and took a Den Den Mushi from his coat. It rang two or three times before someone answered, its face instantly taking on a sharp-eyed expression.

"Captain."

Lafitte's voice turned respectful and precise. He first gave a detailed report on the consolidation of the North Blue's Underworld forces and the establishment of intelligence networks at several key locations. His figures were accurate, his account clear.

Only after finishing the official report did he mention what he had stumbled upon.

"...Also, I happened to learn of a Famous Sword called Kikoku. Supposedly, its potential sharpness rivals that of a Supreme Skillful Grade blade, but it has an unusual requirement: its wielder must infuse it with Haki and earn its recognition before it reveals its true power."

The Den Den Mushi fell silent. More than ten seconds passed before a reply came.

"Tell me where it is. I'll come take a look in a few days."

Lafitte immediately gave the exact locations of Wilberus Island and Octagon Village, then repeated everything the shopkeeper had told him about Kikoku.

After the call, Lafitte put away the Den Den Mushi, straightened his top hat, and headed toward the coast with his newly acquired Flame Curve in hand. He had taken only a few steps when a tall figure suddenly sprang from the deep shadow of a nearby building and blocked his path.

Two bright red vertical streaks marked the newcomer's face. He held a slender rapier, his expression haughty.

"Finally caught you. You won't get away this time, Louis's lackey!"

Diamante pointed his rapier straight at Lafitte, his voice full of contempt and confidence. Over the past three years, Lafitte's activities in the North Blue had repeatedly brought him into conflict with the Donquixote Family. They had long since