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Chapter 1015: Faritear·Joshua
Chapter 1015 Faritear·Joshua
Astartes lies in the New World, geographically positioned at the frontline—on the far edge of the World Government’s control. Its location sits squarely between the spheres of influence of both Blackbeard and Shanks.
Previously, this was Whitebeard’s territory. When Whitebeard still lived, three nations often clashed here, but none could dominate the others. With Whitebeard gone, the balance should have remained—especially for Saima Principality and Feldan Principality. Recently, Saima’s King Alexander Francis II died, while Feldan lost a powerful noble to internal strife. Both nations now face instability. Were it not for their Blackbeard affiliations, Faya Principality would have already attacked.
But now the situation has grown even more chaotic. Shanks, one of the Four Emperors, has invaded this region to confront Feldan Principality. Faya Kingdom cannot possibly withstand this pressure. Feldan’s affirmation of surrender to Shanks seems inevitable—no one can resist a Four Emperor. Soon, Faya’s northwest will fall to Blackbeard, and its northeast to Shanks. The isolated Faya Kingdom would then become the weakest link.
Yet Faya isn’t without options. They’ve already sought backing from the World Government.
Faya Principality occupies the southernmost area of Astartes, spanning four cities—the largest territorial presence there. Its villages and towns are numerous. Kuro, aboard the Golden Lion, has arrived at one of Faya’s two port cities: Amudan.
The massive golden warship slowly docks at the harbor, drawing shocked and awed gazes from the portside crowd.
A gangplank extends from the ship’s side. Hooded in a flowing cloak, Kuro steps onto the dock, flanked by Navy officers.
This area borders the port but opens directly into a street. Railway tracks run down the road’s center, flanked by towering buildings. Horse-drawn carriages and riders flow continuously along the bustling thoroughfare.
Kuro surveys the scene, remarking, “Not a bad place.”
Compared to typical medieval settlements, this one leans toward modernity.
“Yes, Mr. Kuro,” Klah confirms. “We can take this railway directly to Faya’s capital, Faya, to meet their king.”
Of Faya’s four cities, two are ports. This is one of them. The other two inland cities require travel by vehicle or foot.
“The technology level here is decent. Take a squad with me—leave the rest to guard the ship,” Kuro orders.
“Are you really from the Navy?!”
A voice interrupts. Kuro turns to see a man in his forties striding toward them. He wears a coarse hemp robe, a grungy curtain-like hooded cloak, and an iron crown. A rapier and flintlock pistol hang at his belt. Leather boots thud with each step as he approaches the dock.
The crowd instinctively gathers behind him, their eyes filled with warmth and respect.
The tall man—nearly two meters high—stops before Kuro, eyes scanning him up and down. “I am Faritear·Joshua, Emperor of Astartes! By imperial decree, Astartes requires no foreign interference—neither Navy nor pirates. This is our war. Leave now! Return to your homeland!”
“Faritear?” Kuro’s lips twitch in surprise. “You’re the one calling yourself ‘emperor’? Pretty high-and-mighty act you’ve got going.”
“Of course! I am Astartes’ emperor!” Joshua lifts his chin proudly. “The emperor does not wish you here. Depart. Tell your World Government—we will never become their member state!”
Murmurs erupt among the crowd.
“Member of the World Government? Never heard of such a thing!”
“Same here! Aren’t you here to resupply?”
“Wait—why join the World Government? We just escaped Whitebeard’s rule. We won’t be controlled again!”
Kuro arches an eyebrow at the commotion, then asks Joshua, “How’d you know? There’s no official news yet.”
Joshua taps his forehead smugly. “It’s called thinking. As Astartes’ emperor, I consider all our interests. Shanks attacks Feldan Principality. Saima lies under Blackbeard’s shadow. Once Shanks takes Feldan, Faya Principality—without allies—becomes their next target in Astartes. Two nations against one? Faya’s defeat is certain.”
“So seeking protection is natural. The Beasts Pirates and Big Mom Pirates are too distant, but the World Government is near. Faya’s choice is obvious. Your arrival proves it.”
This guy…
He’s actually sharp.
“Fair point. But aren’t you worried Faya won’t survive if we leave? Red-Haired Shanks and Marshall D. Teach will crush them.” Kuro smirks.
“That’s exactly my point!” Joshua’s voice booms. “Astartes belongs to its people alone! We reject all foreign influence. Temporary violence might bend nobles to submission, but we will never yield! We remember the glory of Astera Kingdom! I’ve already issued commands to all three kings—to unite their armies with Faya’s forces, repel Shanks, then expel Blackbeard’s influence. Together, the three principalities will unite into a new, sovereign Astartes!”
A sharp inhale escapes Kuro. This guy’s mind…
Well, not evil. Just delusional.
On the Grand Line, encountering such idealism is rare.
This plan is clearly impossible.
A single decree expects full obedience? Demands shared sovereignty? On what basis—his face? Even the Navy can’t enforce that. World Government commands often face resistance. Sakazuki’s orders aren’t always followed. Royal hierarchies are traditional, yet even kingdoms rarely comply so readily.
“Noble idea,” Kuro nods. “I’ll leave instantly if you pull it off. But you’re not a true emperor, are you? I heard you’ve held that title for years without expanding your influence. Seems odd.”
He sizes Joshua up. “You’re not weak, though.”
His Observation Haki detects Joshua’s aura—radiant as a moon compared to the fireflies around him. This strength rivals even Joe Rudolph’s. A man of this caliber could easily rally followers. Yet he’s done nothing? Unusual.
Joshua hesitates, then replies firmly, “Astartes are compatriots. No need for violence among family.”
“Spoken like a true emperor!”
Another voice rings out. Kuro’s eyes narrow. Teeth bared, he turns.
From the city’s front, a group advances slowly. Their pace is leisurely, but their auras intensify with each step.
A breeze lifts the leader’s red hair. He halts at a distance, smiling.
“I like you, Faritear·Joshua. Join my crew.”
(End of Chapter)
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