Winning Him Over

At Hades's words, Karthus broke into a wide, silent laugh of excitement.

After a long while, Karthus slowly knelt before Hades and bowed his head.

He took Hades's hand and placed the Bible in his palm.

"My prince, one day my life will reach its end, and you will be crowned king!"

Despite what Hades had said, he was not a king yet. That was a fact.

He still lacked both strength and influence.

He had yet to come into his own. The hopes of his Family and Kingdom drove him onward, but he still needed time.

In any case, Hades had achieved his goal.

Karthus had pledged himself to Hades, becoming the first subordinate Hades had won over since arriving on Hachinosu.

Hades now had a formidable commander at his side.

At some point, three figures had appeared outside the church: Bar, Callaway, and Edge.

They had been following news of Hades closely. When they learned he was heading toward the church, they understood what he intended to do.

They witnessed Karthus pledge himself to Hades.

A thousand thoughts ran through their minds. Waves of emotion disturbed their calm, and blood that had lain dormant for years began to stir.

They slipped away quietly. Karthus had already pledged himself—would they be far behind?

Sensing the three of them leave, Hades smiled with confidence. He knew he had them.

They could not hide their shifting emotions from him. Things had gone even more smoothly than he had expected.

"Congratulations, Your Highness. Shall I persuade them to join you? I don't expect any trouble."

Karthus rose. After knowing Bar and the others for years, he was deeply familiar with their presences.

As a Sound Wave Fruit Devil Fruit User, he was like a living radar. He had detected the three of