Cheng Xiaoyu nodded with satisfaction, a glint of light flashing in his eyes as he gazed at the enormous python coiled on the deck.
Such power, combined with Gin's original Shadow abilities, would be enough to contend with those behemoths of the Beasts Pirates.
However, just as he was about to return and challenge the second floor, a blue light curtain suddenly appeared before him, and the system displayed an unexpected notification:
"[Due to having left the tower, the system's protection mechanism is active. You may only continue challenging after 24 hours.]"
Cheng Xiaoyu frowned slightly and murmured to himself, "So, it means there's a 24-hour cooldown only if I leave the tower? If I stay inside, I can challenge continuously?"
The system's response was crisp and clear: "[Absolutely correct.]"
The night breeze gently swept across the deck, and Cheng Xiaoyu leaned against the ship's railing.
Cheng Xiaoyu quickly calculated, considering the rewards.
If he could clear all 100 floors, not only would his level soar to 120, but he would also gain a large number of points.
By then, he would not only be able to maximize his Haki but also use the remaining points to exchange for various powerful items, elevating his strength to another level.
But soon, Cheng Xiaoyu calmed down again.
This Lord's Tower was clearly not so easy to deal with, like a tall tower shrouded in mist, full of unknowns and dangers.
Take the first floor, for example; even with his current strength, if he hadn't used his trump card, Haki, at the last moment, he probably would have failed within the time limit.
And the Lord's abilities for each subsequent floor are unknown, as are the limiting conditions.
Clearing 100 floors in a short period of time is probably unrealistic.
"Now I need to find a quiet place to focus on climbing the tower."
Cheng Xiaoyu gazed at the distant horizon, pondered for a moment, and quickly made a decision in his mind.
…
A few days later.
Somewhere in the East Blue, on the turbulent sea, a solitary island stood quietly, as if isolated from the world.
Thick darkness, like a curtain, enveloped the entire island, making it impossible to see one's hand in front of their face. A chilling aura permeated the air, sending shivers down one's spine.
This island was Shadow Island, which Cheng Xiaoyu had transformed a few months ago, and it had now become his secret base for focusing on climbing the tower.
Dark mist swirled around the island like ghosts. From a distance, it looked like a mysterious and terrifying ghost island floating on the sea.
Cheng Xiaoyu looked around and thought to himself, "No place is more suitable than this."
He took a deep breath and called out softly, "Kuro!"
As soon as his voice fell, a figure emerged from the darkness like a phantom, kneeling on one knee, respectfully bowing his head: "Monarch."
At some point, Kuro had changed his address.
His title for Cheng Xiaoyu had changed from Captain to Monarch, which just goes to show how clever he was.
Originally, the name of the Shadow Monarch had already resounded throughout the Four Seas, subtly showing a trend of replacing Whitebeard's crew and becoming a new Four Emperors.
However, Cheng Xiaoyu did not take advantage of the situation to expand his influence; instead, he chose to disappear and climb the tower at this time!
He wanted to completely wring out the moisture from those unrealistic titles; he wanted to be the true Shadow Monarch!
Cheng Xiaoyu's tone was firm, carrying an undeniable authority:
"From today onwards, you are in charge of leading all Shadow Soldiers. You have the right to make decisions on my behalf for everything that happens during this period."
Kuro looked up slightly, a hint of confusion flashing in his eyes: "How long does Monarch plan to be away?"
Cheng Xiaoyu turned and looked at the distant horizon, his gaze profound: "Uncertain, a few months at the fastest, half a year at the slowest."
"Before I return, do not let anyone set foot on this island, understand?"
"Your subordinate understands!" Kuro's voice was firm. He knew that the Monarch's orders outweighed everything.
Cheng Xiaoyu nodded with satisfaction, then waved his hand to summon thousands of Shadow Soldiers.
These warriors, made of pure darkness, stood silently like ghosts, awaiting their master's command.
They wore black armor, held sharp weapons, and exuded a chilling killing intent.
"While I am away, Kuro will act on behalf of the Legion in all matters. Everyone will obey his command and guard this place!"
"Intruders, kill without mercy!"
"Yes!"
At Cheng Xiaoyu's command, the Shadow Soldiers dispersed silently like a tide, merging into the island's darkness, disappearing without a trace.
After arranging the Shadow Soldiers, Cheng Xiaoyu summoned the other Cadres.
"For the next period, I will be focusing on an important matter." His voice was low and full of authority.
"During this time, you are free to act."
As soon as his voice fell, a gleam of excitement flashed in the eyes of several Cadres.
"Can we really act freely, Monarch?" Eneru was the first to ask, unable to hold back.
Cheng Xiaoyu nodded slightly: "Whether you want to challenge strong opponents or search for Devil Fruit, as long as it doesn't violate the fundamental interests of the Shadow Pirates, you can do whatever you want."
"That's great!" Bullet excitedly clenched his fists.
Just as everyone was excited, Cheng Xiaoyu's voice suddenly turned cold: "However..."
The entire deck instantly fell silent.
"There is one thing you must remember." Cheng Xiaoyu's gaze sharpened,
"Once Kuro issues a summons, no matter what you are doing, you must immediately drop your current affairs and rush back at the first opportunity."
"Is it to protect those three?" Kuina asked softly.
Cheng Xiaoyu did not answer directly but continued: "If anyone dares to neglect this matter, don't blame me for being merciless when the time comes."
A chilling killing intent instantly filled the entire hall, making the Cadres present shiver.
"Understood!" Everyone responded in unison.
"Very good." Cheng Xiaoyu stood up, the aura around him softening slightly. "Now, you are free to act."
The Cadres filed out, but before leaving, they could all feel the Monarch's undeniable authority.
They all knew very well that although they had gained temporary freedom, those three pregnant women were the Monarch's soft spot.
After everyone left, Kuro emerged from the shadows: "Does Monarch truly trust them to act freely?"
Cheng Xiaoyu's lips curved into a meaningful smile: "Kuro, why do you think I didn't directly order them to stay?"
Kuro was slightly taken aback, then suddenly realized: "Because they wouldn't obey my command."
"Exactly." Cheng Xiaoyu stood with his hands behind his back, his gaze looking out the window at the distance.
"These guys are all unruly individuals. Forcibly ordering them to stay would only backfire."
Shadows slowly flowed at his feet, writhing like living things.
Cheng Xiaoyu continued: "Instead of letting them stew in frustration here, it's better to let them go out and cause some trouble. As long as the rules are set, let them go wild with everything else."
"I want to see what kind of waves they can stir up." There was a hint of playfulness in Cheng Xiaoyu's voice.
Kuro pushed up his glasses, a cold glint reflecting off the lenses:
"And the commotion they cause outside will ultimately be attributed to you. By then, your bounty will likely reach a new high."
"Clever!" Cheng Xiaoyu nodded approvingly.
Although Kuro's strength wasn't top-tier among the many Shadow Cadres, he was definitely the one who understood Cheng Xiaoyu's thoughts best.
Therefore, even when leaving for a long time, Cheng Xiaoyu could confidently entrust the Shadow Legion to him.