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One Piece: Другой Луффи
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Когда Луффи садится на Триллер Барк и получает чит, ускоряющий
рост, ситуация для Пиратов Соломенной Шляпы начинает меняться.
В предстоящих крупных событиях Мугивары не будут такими
слабыми, как раньше. В «Триллер Барке» Луффи использует Хаки
Завоевателя, чтобы оглушить своих врагов, даже заставив врасплох
гигантского медведя выстрелом с воздуха.
После прибытия на архипелаг Сабаоди Луффи представляет свою
форму Пятого Гира, известную как Четвертый Гир: Баундмен,
объединяя ее со своей формой Ника и овладевая Хаки Завоевателя.
Обладая повышенной физической силой, он без особых усилий
побеждает Пасифиста одним ударом и одним ударом отправляет
адмирала Кидзару в полет, оставив в изумлении даже Рэйли.
Во время Войны на высшем уровне Пираты Соломенной Шляпы,
теперь усиленные, совершают грандиозное появление. Каждый
участник демонстрирует впечатляющее боевое мастерство, что
усиливает их грозное присутствие. Когда они сражаются против
Дозорных и Ситибукаев, все взгляды прикованы к Эйсу, который
стоит на платформе казни.
В момент напряжения Луффи активирует свое Хаки Завоевателя,
заглушая хаос на поле битвы шепотом: «Я здесь, чтобы положить
конец этой войне».
Я буду обновлять одну главу ежедневно!!
Название MTL — «Открыта пятая передача на земле Сабаоди»,
Кидзару онемел
Общая аудитория
55. The Strong Come On Stage,
The Battle Begins
"Attention, everyone's ready.
Sengoku yelled, clutching a Den Den Mushi, the phone bug used to
command the battlefield.
This phone is crucial; it controls the whole situation and is capable of
issuing orders anywhere on the battlefield.
Marines are defending their home turf, and they've been prepping for this
battle for too long.
Pirate ships emerge from the mist one by one, each one sending shivers
down the Marines' spines.
These are no ordinary pirates – they're all big shots from the New World.
Even Vice Admirals at headquarters tremble at the thought.
And there are dozens of these pirate ships.
This is the backdrop of the Whitebeard Pirates, hailed as the strongest
among the Four Emperors.
"Everyone."
Ace stood on the execution platform, chained with seastone. He could
only watch silently as familiar faces appeared in the distance, filling him
with shame and guilt.
Clang.
On the warships, cannons aimed at the approaching pirate ships, ready to
fire.
But Sengoku hesitated to give the order.
Because, so far, there's been no sign of Whitebeard's flagship, the Moby
Dick.
And, according to intel, Gol D. Roger's old ship, the Oro Jackson, should
be with Whitebeard.
The Straw Hats aim to rescue Fire Fist Ace.
With Rayleigh, they likely joined forces with Whitebeard.
The Oro Jackson was last spotted near Fish-Man Island, heading for the
New World, linked with Whitebeard.
Sengoku's face darkens when he thinks of the Straw Hats.
The Four Emperors Whitebeard – all predictable.
Except for the Straw Hat Pirates, the wild card in this whole affair.
"I can't wait to see the clash between the Whitebeard Pirates and the
Marines."
Doflamingo, one of the Seven Warlords, chuckles loudly from his vantage
point.
His arms are outstretched, and he seems like a madman embracing the
chaos of the battlefield.
The Empress shoots him a disgusted look.
"Will Rayleigh join the fight too?"
Despite her indifferent attitude towards Rayleigh, Hancock knew deep
down that she owed him a great debt.
If it weren't for Rayleigh and Shakky back then, she wouldn't have been
able to return to Amazon Lily so effortlessly.
But she heard that Rayleigh helped the Straw Hat Boy join the war.
"Marine's strength is far greater than anticipated."
Gekko Moria's injuries had fully healed. He extended his thick, long neck,
surveyed the scene, and screeched, "Admiral Sengoku, the Three
Admirals, Hero Garp, Black Arm Zephyr, Tsuru, Gion, and T-Bone."
"The golden generation of Marine's older guard and the current Admirals,
along with their substitutes, are all here. Marine's power and resolve for
this war are truly astounding."
"Whitebeard?"
Hawkeye paid no attention to his surroundings; he was only interested in
his next opponent.
He simply wanted to gauge the distance between himself and the world's
strongest using the blade in his hand.
Onstage, Sengoku still held a Den Den Mushi, broadcasting Fire Fist Ace's
true story to the world, along with the might of the Marine and the
World Government.
After the broadcast ended, a Marine soldier approached Sengoku and
whispered a report.
"The newly appointed Shichibukai, Blackbeard Teach, commandeered a
warship and departed, and the Gates of Justice opened."
"Blackbeard, that scoundrel."
Sengoku clenched his teeth. He knew Blackbeard had motives, but he
hadn't expected them at this crucial moment. And it seemed his target
was likely Impel Down.
And it's fair to say Blackbeard chose his moment well. At this juncture,
Marines couldn't reinforce Impel Down, making its defence weakest.
"Inform Magellan, tell him to stay vigilant and release Shiryu if
necessary."
Sengoku wasn't overly alarmed.
Even without Marine's support, Impel Down's defences were formidable.
They might not withstand the Four Emperors, but they could handle
Blackbeard.
The priority now was dealing with Whitebeard before them.
After all, between the execution platform, the protective wall, and the
warships, the sea lay beneath.
A colossal shadow had already emerged, stirring a sense of foreboding in
Sengoku's heart.
Beneath the waves, three pirate ships bobbed quietly.
"Are we all set?"
Heavy footsteps resounded on the deck of the Moby Dick.
Clad in a white cloak and wielding a long sword, Whitebeard emerged
from the cabin, sporting a serene smile.
With each step, the long sword's bottom tapped the deck, creating a crisp
rhythm.
From this distance, the glimmer of the sea was already visible.
"We've got to save Ace this time," Luffy murmured, adjusting his straw
hat.
Beside him, Zoro's face brimmed with determination. He casually
removed the turban draped over his shoulders, tying it firmly around his
head. His fingers trembled slightly, dancing along the hilt of his blade.
"Don't slow me down, Chopper," Sanji said coolly, lighting a cigarette.
"Admiral, I haven't had my fill yet. How about a round of appetizers?"
Chopper's expression hardened as he assumed his formidable human
form, fingers clutching four Rumble Balls. His fur bristled with
determination.
"This is where our fearless sea warrior, Usopp, makes his mark," Usopp
declared confidently, donning a sniper mask and wielding his trusty
slingshot with renewed vigour.
"What a lively bunch," Marco remarked, a glint of azure fire flickering in
his eyes.
"Then let the battle commence," Whitebeard exclaimed, shaking his long
sword vigorously.
Boom.
Three colossal pirate ships breached the surface, resembling mighty
beasts rising from the depths.
Bang, bang, bang.
Enormous bubbles burst, punctuating the air with their explosive release.
On the pirate ship, the Moby Dick took center stage, with Whitebeard,
Luffy, and Rayleigh standing proudly at the bow.
Behind them stood the captains of the Whitebeard Pirates and the
members of the Straw Hat crew.
All eyes were fixated on Whitebeard, for he was the legendary figure
commanding their attention.
"Gurararara, quite the spectacle," Whitebeard remarked, surveying the
darkened horizon of Marines with a smile. "Are those coatings rising from
the seabed? Quite the assembly."
Sengoku, standing before the execution platform, wore a slight grimace,
but it was merely a minor setback in the grand scheme of things.
"Father!" Ace couldn't contain his emotions upon seeing Whitebeard
before him. He cried out like a sorrowful child finally reunited with his
parents.
"Ace, stay put. I'll bring you home," Whitebeard assured, extending a
comforting hand towards the execution platform.
Beside Whitebeard, Luffy couldn't contain his excitement upon spotting
Ace on the platform.
"Ace, hang on! I'm coming to rescue you!" he shouted eagerly.
"Luffy?" If Whitebeard represented a father figure to Ace, then seeing
Luffy was akin to encountering a mischievous younger brother in the
most perilous of situations. Ace's heart swelled with a mix of surprise,
warmth, and concern.
And nearby, someone's emotions churned even more intensely.
"Luffy, you rascal." Garp's impression of Luffy remained rooted in the boy
he once knew. Despite Kizaru's reports of Luffy's victories, in Garp's eyes,
he was still the impetuous youngster.
However, as Luffy stood on the battlefield before him, Garp's expression
turned grim. The conflict between familial love and duty weighed heavily
upon him.
He could only clasp his hands over his chest, bow his head, and his eyes
appeared clouded with uncertainty.
"Straw Hat Kid."
The Three Admirals occupied the highest positions.
When Whitebeard emerged, Kizaru remained composed, but upon
hearing Luffy's voice, he straightened up. A flicker of apprehension
danced in his eyes.
He wasn't afraid of Whitebeard. They had clashed before, and while the
opponent was formidable, his speed was somewhat restrained by his
abilities.
But Straw Hat was different.
With his Fifth Gear, enhanced physical prowess, and mastery of combat
skills and Conqueror's Haki, he posed a genuine threat.
"What's on your mind, Kizaru?" Akainu and Aokiji exchanged puzzled
glances as they observed Kizaru's excitement.
Though they knew Kizaru had been injured in his encounter with Straw
Hat, they were unaware of the details.
"Nothing at all," Kizaru dismissed with a wave of his hand.
Meanwhile, aboard the Moby Dick,
Whitebeard stood at the bow, his gaze slanting downwards towards
Luffy. "Hey, kid, do you feel overwhelmed by the crowd ahead?"
"What do you mean? I'm going to rescue Ace," Luffy replied, glancing
urgently towards the execution platform.
"Don't worry, let's give the Marines a little surprise first. Let's make our
presence known," Whitebeard said with a grin.
"What?" Luffy looked puzzled.
Beside him, Rayleigh gently pulled Luffy back and smiled, "You'll see
soon enough. Whitebeard's power to shake the world."
"Shake the world?" Zoro and Sanji exchanged curious glances.
Despite their time with the Whitebeard Pirates, they had yet to witness
Whitebeard's full power in action. The last time he was about to unleash
it, Rayleigh had intervened.
With a smile on his face, Whitebeard drove his sword forcefully into the
deck, clenching his fists and crossing them over his chest. His arm
muscles bulged, brimming with newfound strength.
Two spherical, translucent halos formed around his fists, emitting an aura
of power.
"Kaishin," Whitebeard uttered, causing the air around him to vibrate.
In the next instant, Whitebeard thrust his fists outward...
Click, click, click.
Like a shattered mirror, the space on either side of Whitebeard
fragmented like a spider's web, accompanied by a soft crackling sound.
Cracks, illuminated with silver-white light, spread from Whitebeard's
fists, reaching up into the sky.
"Gu la la la," Whitebeard bellowed triumphantly.
Zoro, Sanji, and the others watched in awe.
"The space is being torn apart?" Zoro exclaimed, astonished.
But what amazed them even more was yet to come.
Shortly after, the entire sea began to convulse violently.
Two massive waves, towering over 100 meters high, surged past the
tallest structures of Marineford.
This was a tsunami, a colossal wave capable of engulfing the entire
Marineford.
"Pops ate the Gura Gura no Mi, the Quake-Quake Fruit. It lets him
generate earthquakes and tsunamis," Marco explained.
"What incredible destructive power," Zoro muttered, his shock evident.
No wonder the World Government feared Whitebeard so greatly.
His ability to unleash such devastation could easily obliterate a sizable
island.
It was no exaggeration to say that he possessed the power to reshape the
world.
However, since the Marines dared to confront Whitebeard, they must
possess the means to counter the tsunami.
"Then, I'll take the first step," a calm voice interrupted. Aokiji rose from
his seat leisurely, ready to act.
In an instant, a sharp edge of ice materialized on the ground, and the
figure of the pheasant vanished, reappearing in the sky above Naval
Headquarters.
"Ice Age," Aokiji muttered, facing the onslaught of the tsunami on both
sides.
Icicles extended towards the waves, rapidly freezing them upon contact,
transforming the raging waters into solid ice.
Not only were the waves affected, but a frosty chill spread across the sea
around Marineford, freezing it before their eyes.
"Your power is quite troublesome," Aokiji remarked calmly as he
descended from the sky, his gaze fixed on Whitebeard in the distance.
"If our opponent keeps summoning tsunamis, no matter how many
Marines we have, it won't be enough," he added.
"Hmph, Ice brat," Whitebeard retorted, observing the frozen expanse in
the distance with a nonchalant air.
"It's up to you two, Straw Hat Kid, Rayleigh," Whitebeard declared. "Let's
make some adjustments to this battle."
"Exactly what I had in mind," Luffy responded, adjusting his straw hat
and clenching his fists, emitting white steam from his skin.
In the blink of an eye, he vanished from the Moby Dick.
And when he reappeared...
They found themselves beyond the protective wall, hovering above the
square in front of the execution platform. Beneath them lay tens of
thousands of elite Marine soldiers.
Directly ahead stood Marine's top-tier forces – Admirals, Vice Admirals,
and Shichibukai.
At such close proximity, Ace and Garp on the execution platform could
discern Luffy's expression.
"What...?" gasped Whitebeard, Rayleigh, and the others aboard the Moby
Dick, their mouths agape as they watched Luffy descending towards the
Marine throng below.
"What is that kid up to?"
Whitebeard looked on in astonishment.
"All he wanted was for Straw Hat to unleash his Conqueror's Haki. Why
would he charge in alone, or rather, charge straight into the heart of the
enemy's formation?" he pondered.
"That guy," Zoro sighed, shaking his head. "I should've known. With his
personality, how could he stick to the battle plan?"
With a resigned shrug, Zoro leaped off the ship without hesitation.
"This is our captain for you. You know how unpredictable he can be,"
Sanji remarked to the bewildered Whitebeard and Rayleigh.
With a swift step and a slight burst of air, Sanji vanished instantly.
Meanwhile, in the square before the execution platform...
Luffy's sudden appearance stunned the Marine higher-ups and soldiers
alike. But they were adversaries, and they quickly raised their weapons,
aiming at the descending Luffy.
"Clear the way!" Luffy's voice rang out coldly as he surveyed the sea of
Marines below.
Boom.
As he touched down, an immense black-red shockwave rippled outward,
akin to a tempest unleashed in the square.
Marine soldiers closer to the epicenter were swept up like leaves in a
storm, tossed aside by the tangible force of Luffy's Conqueror's Haki.
Many Marines staggered and collapsed to the ground, their eyes rolling
back.
This was Luffy's evolved Conqueror's Haki, now at the pinnacle of the
sea, rivaling that of even Shanks.
"Hey, is that the Straw Hat kid? His Haki is incredible. Only Vice
Admirals seem able to withstand it," Doflamingo remarked, masking his
surprise with a chuckle.
But before he could finish speaking, he witnessed Vice Admiral Tsuru,
who had been advancing towards him, kneel on one knee.
Luffy's Conqueror's Haki was far beyond his own.
Doflamingo had heard about the Straw Hat from Bellamy, but this... was
unexpected.
This overwhelming Conqueror's Haki was akin to that of an emperor
ruling over the world.
----------
You can read advanced chapters here: patreon.com/GregariousLion
56. Fighting Of Monsters
"Luffy stared at the Marine soldiers. Some rolled their eyes and fainted,
while others knelt on one knee, their veins bulging as they roared loudly.
A terrifying energy radiated from Sengoku, like a shock wave, crashing
into Luffy's Haki. Luffy's Conqueror's Haki surged, overpowering
Sengoku's.
Boom.
An invisible force exploded, making Sengoku step back on the execution
platform. Ordinary soldiers couldn't see what happened, but the strong
ones witnessed it clearly.
Sengoku's Conqueror's Haki, was completely overwhelmed by Luffy's.
Even though Sengoku didn't go all out, it was still shocking.
But Sengoku's move wasn't in vain. He managed to contain Luffy's Haki,
preventing Marine casualties.
"Luffy," Garp exclaimed, seeing Luffy standing confidently on the square,
surrounded by Marines either blown away or kneeling.
Garp was astonished at Luffy's power, equal to his own. He wondered
what had caused Luffy's sudden growth.
Garp was torn between pride in Luffy's progress and the dilemma of
intervening.
"Such a reckless kid," Whitebeard grumbled from the Moby Dick, though
he couldn't hide his admiration.
"Everyone, support Luffy with all your might!" Whitebeard commanded
his crew, rallying them.
On the ice behind him, New World warriors surged forward, inspired by
Luffy's bravery.
"Straw Hat Luffy. How did he become so strong?"
"Hawkeye fixed his sharp gaze on Luffy, who was now very close to
them.
He remembered seeing this young man in a seaside restaurant not long
ago. Back then, the guy seemed weak, but Hawkeye sensed potential in
him and his crew.
But in less than a year, how had they grown so quickly?
"Is this the guy you lost an arm to, Shanks?" Hawkeye's mood shifted as
he thought of his former friend. Shanks, once the strongest in the world,
had lost an arm to a seemingly insignificant event in the East Blue.
The idea of facing the world's strongest gradually faded. Instead, a
stronger urge took over. Hawkeye wanted to test the strength of the man
Shanks had entrusted.
Den den.
Hawkeye's boots echoed on the ground, breaking the silence imposed by
Luffy's Conqueror's Haki.
Boa Hancock frowned at him while Doflamingo wore an unexpected
smile. "Quite unusual of you to take the initiative," he remarked.
Ignoring Doflamingo, Hawkeye drew his large black sword with force.
To onlookers, it seemed like an ordinary swing. But when the blade
descended, an immense green energy sliced through the ground, aiming
for Luffy.
"Hawkeye's moving?" Sengoku observed from his vantage point.
Though puzzled by Hawkeye's sudden action, Sengoku saw it as an
advantage. As one of the rarely seen independent figures among the
Warlords, Hawkeye's strength rivaled that of an Admiral.
Boom.
The emerald green saber aura towered like a hill, hurtling towards Luffy
at tremendous speed.
Luffy was about to react when he stopped abruptly, wearing a broad
smile.
In the blink of an eye, a figure cloaked in green appeared before him.
Clang.
The blades clashed.
A cold light flashed, then transformed into a black streak.
"One Sword Style: Sanjuroku Pound Ho"
A deep voice resonated like poetry.
On the flat ground, black sword waves clashed with emerald green ones,
creating a tempest.
The violent wind tousled Zoro and Luffy's clothes, leaving dozens of
sharp incisions on the ground.
In the distance, icebergs broke apart, their surfaces as smooth as mirrors.
"You're too impulsive, Luffy," Zoro chided, standing before him with a
flick of his black blade.
"What's there to fear? I knew you'd back me up," Luffy replied
nonchalantly.
Zoro sighed but said nothing more.
As the sword waves faded, Hawkeye looked at the man standing before
Luffy, a hint of surprise in his eyes.
"Roronoa?" he muttered. The attack displayed by Zoro had the prowess of
a master swordsman. Was this the same guy he met at the seaside
restaurant? He must have grown remarkably fast.
"If you're looking to kill someone, you've got the wrong guy, Hawkeye,"
Zoro said, grinning fiercely with the word 'Wado Ichimonji' clenched
between his teeth. His eyes gleamed with a menacing intensity.
With a swift motion, Zoro unleashed his three swords, creating countless
silver lights that coalesced into a fearsome blue whirlwind.
"Three Swords Style: Three Thousand Worlds."
The whirlwind swept across the ground with even greater force than
Hawkeye's attack.
"Roronoa," Hawkeye murmured again, a rare smile gracing his lips as he
faced the onslaught of swordsmanship.
Since losing his arm, Hawkeye hadn't encountered a swordsman who
ignited his passion. But today, it felt different.
No matter how this swordsman had grown stronger, what mattered was
that he stood before Hawkeye as an equal, and that was enough.
Boom.
Hawkeye advanced, his figure leaping from the high platform. Swinging
his massive black sword, Yoru exuded a heavy pressure that made space
quiver. A bright sword wave burst forth, colliding with Zoro's silver
whirlwind.
The clash created a storm, scattering sharp sparks as the swords clashed.
Hawkeye gripped Yoru with both hands, meeting Zoro's Sandai Kitetsu in
a collision that sent tremors through the air, forcing Marine soldiers to
retreat involuntarily.
This battle between two of the world's strongest swordsmen emitted an
aura of terror, keeping onlookers at bay.
"Who's that swordsman? He's holding his own against the world's best,"
exclaimed a shocked Marine.
Hawkeye, renowned as the world's top swordsman, had clashed with
Four Emperors Shanks numerous times. If not for his lone-wolf nature, he
could have commanded a force rivalling the Emperors'.
Other Warlords paled in comparison.
Yet here he was, facing off against a relatively unknown young
swordsman.
"He's Roronoa Zoro, second in command of the Straw Hat Pirates, with a
bounty of 120 million Berries," a Marine familiar with bounties revealed.
But disbelief spread among the crowd. A mere rookie pirate with a 120
million Berry bounty? Surely there was a mistake. Some even argued it
should be 3 billion.
"Did you see that, Commander Smoker?" Tashigi asked, her face
reflecting her astonishment.
"Yeah, those Straw Hat boys," Smoker replied with a knowing nod.
Smoker clenched his fists tightly, his face grave as if water could drip
from it. He hadn't expected the Straw Hat Pirates to evolve so quickly,
attaining the formidable strength they displayed now.
"Facing off against the world's top swordsman without backing down,"
Tashigi mused dreamily, her eyes fixed on Zoro with a mix of admiration
and complexity.
"Straw Hat boy, how intriguing. Let's stir up some chaos," Doflamingo
chuckled, his hand extending to release invisible threads from his
fingertips. In an instant, several Marine Rear Admirals, like puppets,
drew their knives and lunged at Luffy.
Although these Rear Admirals alone posed no real threat to Luffy,
Doflamingo aimed to provoke him.
Yet, a sense of danger gripped Doflamingo. A tiny steel ball grazed his
face, erupting with explosive force. Doflamingo's expression darkened as
blood seeped from the wound.
"From that direction? Impossible!" Doflamingo exclaimed, glaring
towards the distant Moby Dick.
On the deck of the Moby Dick, Usopp, wearing a Sniper King mask, held
his giant slingshot. With keen perception and knowledge, he could
pinpoint each person's position, armed with steel balls coated in
Armament Haki.
"Don't underestimate the Straw Hat Pirates' sniper," Usopp declared
proudly.
It was Usopp who had shot the steel ball that grazed Doflamingo. His aim
fell slightly short, but it was enough to rattle the Warlord.
"He still has room to grow," Usopp thought, acknowledging his need for
further improvement.
Two days ago, after Luffy sparred with Whitebeard, he gained evolution
points but hadn't reached his peak strength. Otherwise, his sneak attack
on Doflamingo would have landed solidly.
"What a sharpshooter. Where does that kid find these little monsters?"
Whitebeard remarked, casting a glance towards Usopp. Despite his
previous insignificance, Usopp's recent display demanded respect.
With such prowess, he could even captain his own ship.
While Doflamingo felt intimidated by Usopp's sniper skills, not everyone
was daunted.
In an instant, Luffy charged into the fray, his Conqueror's Haki
humiliating the Marines. Some Marine powerhouses resented his
presence.
"Grandson of Garp, your arrogance is misplaced on this battlefield," a
deep, weathered voice boomed.
A muscular old Marine wielding a massive mechanical arm struck at
Luffy.
"Enhanced Wrist Strength."
A figure appeared before Luffy, their palm wrapped in Armament Haki as
they clashed with the mechanical arm.
But upon contact, Chopper's expression changed as he realized it was
made of seastone.
"It's seastone," Chopper called out weakly before being overwhelmed.
"Chopper!" Luffy shouted, his determination evident as a bright light
began to emanate from him.
"You don't have time to worry about others, Straw Hat, Luffy," the voice
warned.
A lewd and frivolous voice resounded above Luffy's head as bright light
waves almost engulfed the sky.
Kizaru appeared above Luffy, hands glowing with a radiant light.
"Crush, Bunt," Zephyr laughed, extending his massive mechanical arms to
seize Luffy.
"Yasakani no Magatama," countless light waves surged towards Luffy
from behind.
"Devil's Feet" Sanji's voice echoed as he lunged towards Luffy with a
powerful kick.
"Brother Luffy, here we come! Fish-man Karate, Seven Thousand Tiles,
Right Fist," another voice joined in, one behind Luffy and the other in
front.
In an instant, a slender but incredibly sturdy figure appeared both in
front of and behind Luffy. Their terrifying kicks clashed with the swirling
light waves, resulting in a deafening explosion.
Accompanied by Jinbei's punch, the surrounding air seemed to ripple
with invisible force as he struck the massive mechanical arm.
"This is the power of Black Arm Zephyr?" Jinbei grimaced, feeling the
weight of the blow.
"Jinbei, aiding the enemy as a Shichibukai makes you a sinner," Zephyr
sneered, exerting all his strength to overpower Jinbei.
But then, a flash of light caught Zephyr's attention.
"Shining Shock!" accompanied by a heavy impact, sent Zephyr flying, his
mechanical arm smashing through a building upon impact.
As Zephyr rose to his feet, spitting out blood and tearing his tattered
clothes, he faced off against a group protecting Luffy.
Shichibukai Jinbei, Whitebeard's Third Division Captain, Diamond Jozu,
and the gentlemanly figure behind Luffy caught Zephyr's attention.
It was this man who had effortlessly blocked Borsalino's attacks earlier,
proving he was no ordinary foe.
"If you dare attack our captain, it won't be easy, Kizaru," Sanji declared,
flames igniting under his feet like molten iron.
"Blackfoot Sanji, what a fearsome kicking style. You've grown remarkably
since Sabaody Archipelago," Kizaru remarked, fear flickering in his eyes.
Though he had briefly clashed with Sanji at Sabaody Archipelago, Sanji
now effortlessly countered his attacks, displaying incredible power and
skill. Kizaru couldn't help but acknowledge Sanji's monstrous strength
and presence.
----------
You can read advanced chapters here: patreon.com/GregariousLion
57. Admiral Shocked, The
Monsters Of The Straw Hats
Watching Zoro in the distance, who's like Hawkeye when he's at his
strongest.
And there's Blackfoot Sanji in front of him.
Kizaru sensed that these two pirates, who were kinda weak against him
back in Sabaody Archipelago, seemed to have levelled up big time in just
four days.
Their strength, compared to the Sabaody Archipelago, has definitely gone
up a notch.
"Are they Admiral-level fighters now?"
Kizaru couldn't believe the thought that crossed his mind and
immediately brushed it off.
They couldn't be Admiral-level. In a small pirate crew, having someone at
the level of the Four Emperors, like Straw Hat Boy and a few others close
to the level of Emperor's deputies, would be too much.
If the top three were all Admiral-level, that'd be too terrifying.
As far as Kizaru remembered, only the Rocks Pirates, who once terrified
the world government and almost ruled the sea, and the old crew of Gold
D Roger, the Roger Pirates, had that kind of power.
A small pirate crew that's only been around for a year? No way.
With that in mind, Kizaru vanished in an instant, moving through the air
at incredible speed.
"Ever been kicked by light speed, Blackfoot?"
Kizaru was suddenly in front of Sanji, his legs moving so fast they left a
golden streak in the air.
But all he got in response was a puff of smoke.
There was a sound of smoke being exhaled, and then the smoke started to
swirl.
Sanji's burning black-flamed shoes landed on Kizaru's light-speed kick,
but without actually touching it. Yet Kizaru felt the sensation of being
stepped on like an invisible flame.
The pain was real.
Kizaru's face turned serious as he looked at Sanji, shock in his eyes.
"You, Blackfoot, Conqueror's Entanglement?"
Invisible mid-air kick? Kizaru had fought against the Four Emperors
many times. He couldn't figure out what kind of ability this was.
"Kizaru, prepare to face your end."
Sanji's voice started calm but rose in intensity.
With a powerful kick, Sanji unleashed a torrent of black flame-like
lightning, the flames on his feet growing wilder and more distorted.
And then, Kizaru was sent flying back to the Marine camp by Sanji's kick.
Boom.
A massive orange-red shockwave erupted, shaking the area.
Sanji casually floated in the air, flames on his right foot now black as
hellfire.
"Devil's Feet"
Sanji gazed calmly at where Kizaru had fallen. "Thinking of taking down
the king? Don't underestimate us"
"Admiral Kizaru got kicked away by Blackfoot."
"How's this possible? Are all the Straw Hat Pirates monsters?"
Marine soldiers stared in horror at Sanji hovering in mid-air.
"What a headache! They're all like monsters."
From the rubble, photons surged, coalescing into Kizaru's form, his tone
still calm.
But those who knew him sensed the seriousness of his actions.
Kizaru realized he was in trouble the moment Sanji unleashed
Conqueror's Twine.
Originally, he wanted to pick a slightly stronger opponent and navigate
through this dangerous war.
That's why he targeted Luffy early on.
Attacking now would be blocked by Whitebeard Pirates guarding Luffy,
so he aimed for Luffy's group later.
But luck wasn't on his side. No one expected so many monsters in the
Straw Hat crew.
Sanji, the third-in-command with a bounty of less than 100 million,
revealed Conqueror's Twine, a threshold of the Four Emperors, along
with formidable physical prowess and kicking skills.
Undoubtedly, another Admiral-level monster.
"A real headache and he's just third-in-command."
Kizaru shifted the foot Sanji had mentioned. The trouser leg tore,
revealing his ankle, faint traces of blood seeping.
Underestimating the enemy in his temptation earlier, he didn't see Sanji
as an equal opponent, leading to this significant loss.
However, such an injury could still be endured by an Admiral with
physical fitness comparable to that of a monster.
"Yata Mirror."
Kizaru sighed, swiftly pulling his hands back and sending a light mirror
towards Sanji, its speed almost instantaneous.
There was no slow wind-up; by the time the light reached Sanji, Kizaru
was already in front of him.
His speed seemed upgraded, reaching a higher level. This was Kizaru in a
serious state, abandoning sluggishness for a true display of strength, akin
to when he faced Luffy in fifth gear back in Sabaody.
He keenly felt the pressure from Sanji, realizing the third-in-command of
the Straw Hat Pirates wasn't an opponent to be taken lightly.
"Indeed. Whether it's the chef or the ingredients, when cooking, you must
pour your heart and soul into it."
Sanji smiled as if he were back in his familiar kitchen, wielding his
spatula and kitchen knife.
His legs became his tools, the foundation for handling ingredients.
"Devil God, Black Flame Banquet, Lamb Skewers."
Black and ominous flames engulfed Sanji's feet, distorting the air around
them. It was an abundance of Conqueror's Haki and Armament Haki,
along with the twisted, invisible flames generated by the heat of his
Demon Wind Feet.
Boom.
A light-speed kick clashed with a Conqueror's kick wrapped in black
flames and armed color.
In an instant, the sky erupted like bright fireworks, black flames and
golden streaks painting a grand display.
"Heizu, were you really holding back when we fought?"
Watching the stunning clash, Foil Vista, rushing to the scene, couldn't
help but marvel.
"What a refined opponent. If he brings out this level of strength, I might
barely keep up. He's only a step below Marco, near Admiral level. Against
a true Admiral, he might just hold his ground."
"And Roronoa, the three-sword swordsman. Pushing Hawkeye to this
extent, evenly matched in Haki and swordsmanship."
"If the monsters of the Straw Hat Pirates truly go all out, the Whitebeard
Pirates will be put to shame after the test on the Moby Dick two days
ago."
"As expected of Ace's younger brother, upholding the pride of our pirate
crew."
Vista couldn't help but feel proud.
Unbeknownst to him, two days prior, both Zoro and Sanji's physical
abilities had only evolved halfway.
The significant gap in physical fitness prevented them from fully
unleashing the power of the top-tier Conqueror's Haki they had evolved.
So, two days ago, even though they held back, they still displayed their
utmost strength for sparring.
However, real qualitative change happened over these two days. They
transformed from first-class powerhouses in the sea to top-tier
powerhouses, now truly at the level of Admirals.
"What can you do? That black-footed brat."
Zephyr watched the battle between Sanji and Zoro with a smile. "I've said
it before, Borsalino relies too much on his Devil Fruit. Otherwise, facing
that brat wouldn't be so tough."
Despite his words, Zephyr's heart sank slightly. He could see Kizaru
giving his all, yet he still couldn't suppress Blackfoot Sanji. That black
foot was genuinely Admiral-level combat power.
In this war, everyone underestimated the Straw Hat Pirates, even
Sengoku.
"Trouble."
Zephyr bit a piece of wood-like material, pondering. But he knew his role
was to take down a few more of the Straw Hat crew.
Taking a deep breath from his asthma medicine, Zephyr shook his
massive mechanical arm, like a sleeping tiger awakening.
"Be careful, his mechanical arm is made of Seastone, highly effective
against Devil Fruit users," Jinbei warned.
Diamond Jozu looked at Zephyr seriously. "Black Arm Zephyr, a former
Marine Admiral, and Garp and Sengoku, pillars of their time. His
Seastone arm boosts his threat level against Devil Fruit users."
On the battlefield, excuses were futile. Luffy was about to speak, but
Jinbei cut him off, reminding him of the battles ahead.
"You are our Admiral. How can you stop here? Brother Ace is still waiting
for you," Jinbei urged.
Understanding, Luffy entrusted them with the task and rushed towards
the execution platform.
"Stop boasting, little devils. If you can withstand my attacks, then try,"
Zephyr taunted.
Boom.
In an instant, a hemispherical crater erupted beneath Zephyr's feet, a
burst of high-speed, destructive power.
Zephyr's body darted between Jozu and Jinbei, leaving them astonished.
"How is this possible?" Jinbei turned, unable to halt Zephyr's advance.
"With such a massive weapon, how can he move so swiftly? Is this the
power of an older generation Admiral?" Jozu's eyes widened in horror.
"Brother Luffy!"
"Ace's younger brother!"
Jinbei and Jozu shouted after Luffy, but their voices struggled to catch up
with Zephyr's figure.
"Step aside, Luffy."
With a roar, a tall figure materialized behind Luffy, blocking Zephyr's
path.
"You still want to challenge me?" Zephyr chuckled, raising his mechanical
arm.
"Crush, Rough Beat. Crush those with mere abilities to hell."
"Luffy, he's the future Pirate King, and I'm the Straw Hat Pirates' ship
doctor. I'll protect his back."
"Rumble Ball, Body Strengthening."
Chopper crushed four Rumble Balls in his mouth, empowering his body.
Instead of growing in size, his muscles expanded proportionally.
"Carved Hoof."
Chopper raised his muscular arms, fists imbued with invisible power.
"Ah ah ah!"
A beastly roar drowned out the noise. Invisible waves mixed with falling
cherry blossoms filled the air.
Boom.
Chopper's attack collided with Zephyr's arm, creating a flash of lightning
and a transparent spherical wave, engulfing everything.
"Why? How can you resist my arm?" Zephyr asked, surprised.
"As long as I don't touch it, your Seastone arm is useless," Chopper
roared.
"No touch?" Zephyr realized, seeing an invisible barrier between their
fists.
Conqueror's Haki, stronger than Straw Hat's, but now Chopper wielded
Conqueror's Twine.
"How is this possible?" Zephyr's senses reeled. The Straw Hat crew's
medic controlling Conqueror's Twine?
"Step back!" Chopper roared, unleashing unimaginable strength.
Boom.
Zephyr was forcefully pushed back, a violent explosion echoing in the air.
Marine soldiers watched in disbelief.
"Zephyr, the former Admiral, defeated by Tony Tony Chopper with a
bounty of fifty Baileys!"
"Can the Straw Hat Pirates' pet really defeat a former Admiral?"
----------
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58. Chopper's Awakening, Akainu
Shocks
"I'm not a pet, but a ship's doctor!" Chopper yelled at the Marine soldiers
in the distance. The combination of "pet" and "fifty Baileys" hurt him
deeply.
As the smoke cleared, Chopper's complete figure emerged. Standing over
three meters tall, his hair billowed around him, giving him an imposing
presence. Despite his size, his form was still humanoid, albeit much
stronger.
His antlers curved sharply, his muscles rippling with power. This was
Chopper's special form, driven by four blue wave balls, enhancing various
aspects of his body without turning him into a monstrous form.
"I've had enough, as long as it helps Luffy," Chopper thought to himself,
eyes fixed on Zephyr rising from the smoke.
"Come on, Luffy. This time, it's our turn to stand in front," Chopper
whispered, memories of snowy days in his homeland flashing through his
mind.
"Thank you for saving us, Doctor," voices rang out around him.
"If this is your dream, then give it your all to protect him," another voice
chimed in.
"Join us, Chopper," yet another urged.
"If I can be your strength, Luffy, even if I become a real monster, I won't
hesitate," Chopper vowed.
As Luffy's footsteps faded into the distance, Chopper felt a sense of
affirmation wash over him.
Zephyr emerged from the smoke, seemingly unaffected by Chopper's
previous attack. Even in his old age, he was still a force to be reckoned
with.
"Hey, little monster, have you made your final decision?" Zephyr taunted,
his body exuding an overwhelming aura.
"Don't try to pass me and interfere with our captain!" Chopper retorted,
his resolve strengthening amidst the chaos of battle.
"Speed Enhancement, Carved Hoof!" Chopper shouted, readying himself
for the clash.
"Good awareness, but it won't save you!" Zephyr laughed maniacally,
swinging his mechanical arm with ease.
Boom boom boom.
In an instant, the two monstrous figures collided, their clash
reverberating across the battlefield.
The sheer force and audacity shattered the air into fragments, countless
crystalline waves exploding outward like streamers.
"What kind of monsters are the Straw Hat Pirates?"
"D-Doctor Chopper." Diamond Jozu seemed taken aback, seeing Chopper
in action. Normally cute as a civet cat, now he fought with the ferocity of
a true monster, matching blows with a renowned Marine pillar.
Witnessing such a battle instilled fear in the onlookers' hearts. It wasn't
just about strength; it was the resolve, willpower, and courage displayed
in combat. Even facing Zephyr, Chopper showed no signs of faltering.
"The magic of the Straw Hat," Jozu murmured, now using Luffy's formal
nickname. He recognized Luffy as the soul of the Straw Hat Pirates, the
core around which they rallied. In times of crisis, everyone was willing to
lay down their lives for him.
It wasn't just about power; it ran deeper, akin to the reverence for their
father. Luffy, like a father figure, offered redemption to those in need.
"Jozu, follow up," Zephyr ordered, urging them to charge forward
alongside Chopper. "Understood," Jozu replied, falling into step.
"The enemy is held at bay by the Straw Hat Pirates. We can't show
weakness. We are the Whitebeard Pirates. Cover the Straw Hats and
rescue Ace," Marco declared, rallying the troops.
The Straw Hat Pirates' sudden surge caught everyone off guard. With
Luffy leading the charge, they broke through Marine lines, clearing a
path to the execution platform. The monsters of the crew stood firm
against the Marines, disrupting their formation.
Now, the battlefield was divided, with several inaccessible areas in the
square. This posed a significant challenge to the defending Marines,
facing multiple Admiral-level threats.
Seeing the opportunity, Whitebeard unleashed his captains, pushing
forward with the momentum created by the Straw Hat Pirates.
With the combined efforts of Luffy's crew and the Whitebeard Pirates,
they surged forward, determined to change the tide of battle.
"Damn it, Straw Hat Pirates," Sengoku muttered, his face grave. His
meticulously planned battlefield had been disrupted by Luffy's reckless
attack.
"Raise the protective wall immediately!" Sengoku commanded, realizing
they had to act fast to salvage the situation. Without the protective wall,
their carefully prepared defences would be useless against the
Whitebeard Pirates.
"The situation is dire. Admiral Sengoku, the control room personnel, were
taken out by Blackbeard's crew. Our reinforcements are on their way,"
came a report over the phone.
Blackbeard's interference had further complicated matters. With control
of the control room, the protective wall and the Door of Justice were now
inaccessible.
"Blackbeard!" Sengoku cursed under his breath, his frustration evident.
"We can't open the barrier, Sengoku," Garp interjected, his expression
conflicted but resolute. He pointed out the dilemma they faced: raising
the protective wall would trap both the Whitebeard Pirates and their own
soldiers in the cramped square.
The narrow space was already crowded with tens of thousands of elite
Marine soldiers, compressed even further by the intense battles between
Admiral-level fighters and other powerful combatants.
Sengoku understood the consequences of raising the protective wall. It
would turn the square into a battlefield of hellfire, with countless
casualties among their own ranks.
Realizing the gravity of the situation, Sengoku made a difficult decision.
"Don't raise the protective wall yet. Withdraw all soldiers from the square
to block the Whitebeard pirates on the ice and prevent them from
entering."
Garp expressed his disapproval, but Sengoku was firm in his resolve. He
knew they couldn't afford to lose control of the situation, even if it meant
deviating from their original plan.
"This isn't just about your grandson's recklessness," Sengoku snapped,
frustration evident in his voice. Luffy's impulsive actions had thrown
their carefully laid plans into disarray, leaving them scrambling to adapt
to the new circumstances.
With their home-field advantage lost, Sengoku and his forces had to
regroup quickly if they hoped to contain the chaos unleashed by the
Straw Hat Pirates.
Sengoku's gaze fell upon the battlefield, his expression darkening with
dismay. The intelligence reports had been grossly inaccurate,
underestimating the strength of the rookie pirates.
The Straw Hat Pirates, led by Luffy, had proven themselves to be
formidable opponents, capable of holding their own against multiple
Admiral-level fighters. The discrepancy between their perceived strength
and their actual combat prowess was staggering.
Roronoa Zoro effortlessly held his ground against a modified Shichibukai,
while Sanji and Chopper displayed powers far beyond what had been
anticipated. The Straw Hat Pirates had surpassed all expectations,
presenting a challenge that Marine forces struggled to contain.
If it hadn't been for the Straw Hat Pirates, Sengoku realized that the
Marine would have been able to deploy its full strength more effectively.
Instead, they found themselves constantly on the defensive, forced to
divert attention to the unexpected threat posed by Luffy and his crew.
Recognizing the gravity of the situation, Sengoku issued orders to
Sakazuki, instructing him to mobilize the strongest forces available to
apprehend Luffy. With the Straw Hat Pirates disrupting their plans, it was
imperative that they be stopped at all costs.
Akainu, seated atop the execution platform, received the command with
a steely resolve. Rising to his feet, he prepared to confront Luffy head-on,
his magma-based Devil Fruit powers ready to unleash devastation upon
the young pirate.
As Luffy charged forward, his mind raced with possibilities. With a quick
decision, he activated his Second Gear, enhancing his speed and agility to
evade Akainu's impending attack.
In a split second, Luffy vanished from sight, his movements too swift for
the naked eye to follow. Akainu's magma arm crashed down, but Luffy
had already darted out of harm's way, his determination driving him ever
closer to his ultimate goal.
As Luffy faced Akainu's advance, his resolve remained unwavering. He
knew that this battle would be unlike any other he had faced before.
Akainu's presence exuded an aura of overwhelming power and danger
unlike anything he had encountered thus far.
"Bring it on, magma man," Luffy called out defiantly, his voice steady
despite the rising tension.
Jinbei and Diamond Jozu watched anxiously from the sidelines, fully
aware of the gravity of the situation. Akainu was not to be
underestimated, and any misstep could prove fatal.
As Akainu closed in, the air crackled with intensity. Luffy braced himself,
his muscles tense and ready for action. He knew that he would need to
rely on all of his strength and cunning to overcome this formidable
opponent.
With a sudden burst of speed, Akainu lunged forward, his magma-
covered fist aimed directly at Luffy. The ground shook beneath his feet as
he unleashed his devastating attack.
But Luffy was ready. With lightning-fast reflexes, he dodged to the side,
narrowly avoiding the searing heat of Akainu's magma. In one fluid
motion, he countered with a powerful punch of his own, aiming for
Akainu's exposed flank.
The two clashed with titanic force, their blows echoing across the
battlefield. Each strike was filled with determination and resolve, as both
combatants sought to gain the upper hand in this fierce battle of wills.
As the battle raged on, Luffy's determination only grew stronger. He
refused to back down in the face of adversity, drawing upon his
unwavering resolve to push forward against all odds.
With every punch and kick, he chipped away at Akainu's defences, slowly
but surely gaining ground in their intense showdown. And as the dust
settled and the smoke cleared, it became clear that this battle was far
from over.
For Luffy, the path ahead was fraught with danger and uncertainty. But
with his friends at his side and his dreams within reach, he knew that he
would stop at nothing to achieve victory.
----------
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59. Akainu And Luffy's Collision,
Swapping Sides
Akainu approached Luffy.
When they were less than two meters apart, Akainu halted.
A Marine Admiral is confronting a Pirate Captain.
At that moment, they locked eyes.
Akainu, towering over Luffy, tilted his head slightly downward, gazing at
him with disdain.
Luffy, under his straw hat, met his gaze, determined and sharp.
An unseen energy enveloped them.
Akainu's side radiated dark red, like searing magma.
Luffy's side shimmered with black and red Conqueror's Haki, swirling and
impenetrable.
They stared each other down.
Then, in an instant, Akainu's eyes glinted with determination.
His fist, clad in black gloves, rose high, spewing forth endless magma.
With a thunderous boom, the molten fist surged forward.
Luffy's foot, shod in a wooden sandal, stamped down onto the magma.
An invisible clash ensued.
For a moment, the world split into two hues.
A deep, indescribable red engulfed one side, resembling the brink of
oblivion.
The other side remained untouched as if repelling the scorching magma.
Heat waves rippled out, marking the aftermath of their collision.
"Run, Admiral Sakazuki is here!" cried out the nearby Marines, fleeing for
their lives.
This battlefield was no place for the weak.
Though elite soldiers from various Marine Bases stood around, they had
no say in this confrontation.
All they could do was retreat from the clash of titans.
"Straw Hat," Marco yelled, watching the clash between Luffy and Akainu.
Their Admiral couldn't be stopped here.
With another boom, a blaze engulfed Marco, cyan flames dancing around
him.
A phoenix, its feathers alight with blue flames, emerged, soaring toward
the center of the battle.
"Two sharp spears," a languid voice drawled beside him.
Pfft.
The massive ice spears impaled the phoenix soaring above.
"Captain Marco!" exclaimed the Whitebeard Pirates.
But Marco wasn't gravely wounded.
Retreating from his full beast form, he reached for the two ice spears
lodged in his chest. No blood gushed forth, but the wounds smouldered
with blue flames.
Almost instantly, the flames consumed them, akin to Logia, and Marco's
chest wound vanished completely.
"Marco the Phoenix, is this the power of the Mythical Zoan Phoenix
Fruit?" remarked a tall, icy figure radiating a chilling aura.
Though Zoan fruits are typically inferior to Logia, exceptions exist. The
Mythical Zoan types rival even the strongest Logias.
Take Marco, the First Division Commander of the Whitebeard Pirates, for
instance. His Phoenix Zoan form boasts unparalleled regenerative
abilities.
With the flames of regeneration, wounds, no matter how severe, can be
swiftly healed, provided there's enough stamina.
In the hands of a formidable user, this ability surpasses even Logia
elemental transformations.
While Logia users can be affected by Armament Haki, leaving wounds
that persist, injuries inflicted by Haki can be effortlessly mended by the
regenerative blue flames of the phoenix.
"Aokiji," Marco addressed the tall, slender man before him with a
grimace, recalling his recent interference in aiding the Straw Hat Boy.
"We can't allow that kid to wreak havoc unchecked any longer. He's
caused enough chaos," Aokiji lazily scratched his head, casting a serious
glance at Luffy in the distance. "Though I'm unsure of their sudden
strength, if Mr. Sengoku is concerned, I can't remain idle."
"You Whitebeard Pirates scoundrels, stay put," barked a Marine.
"Jozu, Jinbei, Vista, escort Ace's little brother. I'll handle Aokiji," Marco
ordered, brushing off Aokiji's warning.
Ignoring Aokiji's words, Marco gestured to Jozu and the others. "I trust
you to handle it, Marco," Jozu responded quietly.
Aokiji simply watched as Vista, Jozu, and the others passed by without
intervening.
"It's futile. You're unaware of the Marines' preparations for this war,"
Aokiji remarked calmly.
Ziiing!
The air crackled as countless slashes streaked toward Jozu and his
comrades.
"The Dance of Roses!" Vista gracefully swung his blade, unleashing a
flurry of petal-shaped slashes.
The seemingly delicate petals clashed violently with the razor-sharp
waves of blades, producing a resounding clash of metal.
"I've heard Admiral Gion, the Marine alternate, is a formidable
swordsman. It's rare to encounter a female swordsman of her calibre,"
Vista remarked as he landed lightly before Gion, a towering figure
wielding a renowned blade.
"Vista, the famed swordsman of the New World. I've longed for a duel
with you," Gion declared, her gentle demeanour giving way to a decisive
aura.
"Sorry, you can't aid the Straw Hat Boy. It's Mr. Sengoku's orders.
Interfere, and we'll make it hard for you," a repugnant figure emerged
from the smoke, blocking Jinbei and Jozu's path.
If Kizaru exuded a casual air, this man was the epitome of repulsiveness,
from his appearance to his words and actions.
Yet Jinbei and Jozu showed him no disdain.
T Bone, the Marine alternate, stood before them.
"The Marines have high expectations of us this time," Marco muttered,
noticing the formidable Marine forces gathering around them.
From Zephyr to the present, renowned Marine powerhouses had
converged on this battlefield, encompassing nearly the entire sea.
The Marine veterans, the new generation's Three Admirals, and their
successors—all have been mobilized for this war. It's a full-scale effort
from the Marines.
"We were once at odds, but the tables have turned," Marco remarked,
facing the formidable Marine presence surrounding him. "Didn't you
notice, Aokiji? You've inadvertently strengthened our position."
Aokiji's brow furrowed slightly as he extended his hand, fingers radiating
an icy chill, pressing toward Marco. "ICE Freezing Moment!"
A bone-chilling wave of coldness spread out like a spherical shockwave,
instantly crystallizing whatever it touched into thick ice.
"Is it a lie? When the Straw Hat Boy reveals his strength, you'll see
Aokiji," Marco retorted, blue flames engulfing his body, one eye
completely shrouded in azure fire. With wings formed from his arms, he
unleashed a torrent of blue flame feathers toward Aokiji.
"Undying Thistle!" The flames clashed with the frigid air, creating a
twirling vortex of cyan and white before vanishing into nothingness.
"Beware, those healing flames can also bring death," Marco warned with
a relaxed smile, surrounded by suspended cyan flames.
Meanwhile, Vista, Jozu, Gion, and T-Bone engaged in battle. Though not
as formidable as Marco, they were still the cream of the crop under the
Admiral's command, capable of holding their own in one-on-one combat.
As for Moria, he confronted Jinbei, wielding a pair of shadow-formed
scissors. Jinbei, adeptly avoiding the looming threat, faced Moria head-
on.
"Give me your shadow, Jinbei. A Shichibukai's shadow is quite valuable,"
Moria urged, eyeing Jinbei greedily.
"If you can take it, then try," Jinbei responded, focusing his energy as
vapour condensed around his palm.
Boom.
The earth trembled under the forceful impact, propelling Jinbei's sturdy
frame into the air.
"I'll take your shadow, Jinbie," Moria declared with a sharp grin,
commanding, "Scatter the bats!"
With a flick of his wrist, the shadows beneath his feet and his massive
scissors transformed into a swarm of black bats, hurtling toward Jinbei.
But Jinbei remained composed, his stance unwavering.
"Fish-Man Karate, Sharkskin Palm Thrust!"
Invisible ripples radiated outward, causing the airborne bats to
momentarily freeze in place.
In a flash, Jinbei leapt through the bat-filled air, closing in on Moria.
"Fist."
Boom.
His heavy blow landed squarely on Moria's midsection, the sheer force
contorting Moria's massive form into a grotesque shape.
Coughing up blood, Moria collapsed to the ground, eyes rolling back.
"Your skills are lacking, Moria," Jinbei remarked casually before
continuing toward Luffy.
However, another thunderous boom echoed through the air.
A colossal figure, rivalling Moria's size, crashed before Jinbei, enveloping
him in shadow.
A pressure vastly different from Moria's bore down on Jinbei.
"Bartholomew Kuma," Jinbei muttered, his expression turning solemn as
he assessed his new opponent.
This adversary was leagues apart from Moria, posing a far greater
challenge.
"Hey, Hancock, Doflamingo, are you two still in the game?" he called out.
Both Marines and Pirates had unleashed their ultimate strength, engaging
in relentless combat.
The elite Vice Admirals from headquarters, the remaining Whitebeard
Pirates' captains, and the formidable New World pirate captains under
Whitebeard—all were embroiled in the fray.
There's one undeniable truth: despite the overwhelming numbers of
Marine soldiers, they're losing ground in terms of mid- and high-level
combat power. The elite Vice Admirals are outnumbered by the
formidable pirate captains under Whitebeard's command, who boast
strength comparable to, if not exceeding, that of the Vice Admirals. Many
of these captains are at the Shichibukai level or close to it.
As Marine casualties continued to mount, the blame fell upon Doflamingo
and Boa Hancock. Their considerable strength could have turned the tide
of battle, yet they remained inactive.
"Are you commanding the Hancock?" one Marine Rear Admiral ventured
to ask.
Boa Hancock raised her head defiantly. "Responding to the Shichibukai's
summons doesn't mean I must obey Marine orders," she retorted.
"Difficult indeed. Since it's been brought up, I'll take action," Doflamingo
interjected, unfazed by a distant sniper attack. With hands in his pockets,
he sauntered arrogantly toward the battlefield.
"Human nature: gentle in slumber, savage in excitement, and drawn to
bloodshed. Blood and death are the true entertainments," Doflamingo
mused with a sinister grin as he traversed the battlefield.
Suddenly, a pirate lunged at him with a knife, only to freeze in place,
along with nearby Marines and pirates. They became mere puppets,
manipulated by Doflamingo's unseen power.
"Whose side are you on, Doflamingo?" cried out a Marine amidst the
chaos.
Doflamingo chuckled. "Justice," he declared. "But can you truly represent
justice, Marine?"
"Pirates evil, Marines righteous? Such concepts have been rewritten
countless times," Doflamingo continued, his tone dripping with disdain.
He swiftly dispatched a Marine soldier with a stomp.
"Is this place righteous or evil now?" he pondered, his arms outstretched
to encompass the blood-soaked battlefield. "Neither. Justice prevails only
for the victor."
As Doflamingo revelled in chaos, a steel ball whizzed past, leaving a fresh
bloodstain on his face. On the distant Moby Dick, Usopp wielded a
massive slingshot, another bullet imbued with Armament Haki.
"Of all the carnage, he still disgusts me the most," Usopp remarked from
afar, his keen senses surveying the entire battlefield.
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60. Eternal Hell, Gear Five Shift
As the battle raged on at Naval Headquarters, another intense conflict
was unfolding at Impel Down prison.
Blackbeard, utilizing the powers of the Dark-Dark Fruit, convinced the
prison warden, Shiryu of the Rain, to join forces with him. Together, they
acquired the antidote for Magellan's deadly poison.
Chaos erupted within Impel Down as Blackbeard unleashed a horde of
criminals by opening all the prison cells to distract Magellan.
On the sixth floor, known as Eternal Hell, the atmosphere was tense.
Blackbeard, with a sinister laugh, faced off against released inmates,
offering them a chance to fight for their freedom.
Meanwhile, Crocodile, a former Warlord, freed himself from his seastone
restraints and exchanged words with Blackbeard, expressing his
disinterest in their confrontation.
Ignoring Crocodile's disdain, Blackbeard prepared to clash with him,
accompanied by Shiryu. But before the fight could escalate, a towering
figure emerged beside Blackbeard, towering over the scene.
Buggy, another infamous pirate, attempted to intervene but was swiftly
silenced by the newcomer's overwhelming power, causing a tremor that
reverberated through the prison.
Identified as Bullet, a formidable adversary from the past, he engaged in
a tense exchange with Blackbeard, expressing his desire to settle their
differences once and for all.
Tensions rose as Bullet exuded a palpable aura, leaving Blackbeard and
Shiryu on edge, realizing the gravity of the situation.
Every inch of this man seemed to emanate a menacing aura.
"If you're up for it, let's see what you've got, thief, hahaha," Blackbeard
taunted confidently.
Despite the tense standoff, Bullet hesitated to make a move and
eventually backed down, acknowledging Blackbeard's formidable
strength.
Aware that his priority was escaping the prison, Blackbeard urged
Crocodile to join them, prompting the former Warlord to reluctantly
comply.
Confusion brewed among Blackbeard's crew as Doc Q questioned their
captain's decision to let Crocodile go without a fight. Blackbeard,
however, recognized Bullet's overwhelming power and deemed it unwise
to provoke him.
Douglas Bullet, a true monster in every sense, posed a threat beyond their
current capabilities. Blackbeard understood that engaging with him could
lead to dire consequences.
In a surprising turn of events, Byrnndi World, also known as the World
Destroyer, swiftly evaded Blackbeard's notice and disappeared just as
quickly as he had appeared.
Blackbeard realized the perilous nature of recruiting allies from the sixth
floor of Eternal Hell, where formidable monsters lurked at every turn.
Shiryu of the Rain informed Blackbeard about Byrnndi World's survival,
noting his enduring resilience and monstrous vitality.
Recognizing Byrnndi World's reputation as a legendary figure preceding
even Whitebeard's era, Blackbeard understood the gravity of the
situation.
With Byrnndi World and Bullet in the mix, Blackbeard acknowledged the
limited number of powerhouses he could control on the sixth floor.
With determination, Blackbeard declared the start of the battle, igniting a
fierce clash that reverberated with explosive force, forcing bystanders to
retreat in fear.
The ground resembled a sea of molten lava, with streams of it flowing
and cooling everywhere.
A fierce gust of air pushed the two combatants apart.
Akainu's face was partially obscured by magma, showing no signs of
injury except for his tattered clothes from his transformation.
On the other side, Luffy remained composed, his fists bearing slight burn
marks.
Akainu posed a greater threat than Kizaru due to the destructive nature
of his Devil Fruit ability. Unlike Kizaru, whose speed could be countered
with Observation Haki, Akainu's magma attacks were relentless and
unavoidable.
Engaging Akainu meant facing a relentless onslaught of magma,
requiring powerful attacks to overpower him.
Akainu, adept at psychological warfare, taunted Luffy, attempting to
provoke him emotionally. He knew that even a momentary distraction
could result in severe damage.
Luffy's gaze drifted to the execution platform, where Ace awaited his fate.
Despite Akainu's words, Luffy remained focused.
Sensing Luffy's resolve, Akainu grew uneasy, realizing he might have
underestimated his opponent.
Luffy's demeanour shifted as he acknowledged the urgency of the
situation. He was determined to defeat Akainu swiftly.
With a declaration to switch to his fifth gear, Luffy's body underwent a
transformation. His massive form began to shrink and emit a soft white
light, enveloping him in ribbons of steam.
The battlefield reverberated with the pounding of passionate drums, their
rhythm cutting through the chaos of combat.
Amidst the clash of weapons, a joyous laughter echoed, spreading a sense
of jubilation that seemed to cleanse the blood-soaked ground.
Kizaru, observing from afar, recognized the familiar white light
emanating from Luffy's transformation. It reminded him of a powerful
gesture he had witnessed before.
Sanji, recalling a similar display of strength in the Moby Dick, sensed
Luffy's determination to unleash his full power.
On the execution platform, Sengoku and Garp watched in awe as Luffy's
aura intensified, puzzled by the sudden surge in his grandson's strength.
Garp, torn between familiarity and confusion, struggled to comprehend
Luffy's newfound power.
Meanwhile, Sengoku's frustration grew as he realized the extent to which
the Straw Hat Pirates had disrupted their plans.
Yet, they remained immobilized, aware of the formidable figures
observing the battle from afar—Whitebeard and Rayleigh.
Whitebeard, intrigued by Luffy's transformation, recognized the potential
within him to change the world.
Rayleigh, convinced of Luffy's destiny, understood that he possessed the
power to fulfil Roger's legacy.
As the battlefield unfolded, it became evident that Luffy's emergence as a
true force to be reckoned with signalled a shift in the balance of power—
one that would shape the course of history.
Rayleigh chuckled in response to Whitebeard's question. "Who do you
think will emerge victorious, that youngster or Akainu?"
Whitebeard held a deep admiration for Akainu's unwavering resolve,
particularly compared to the other Admirals. Despite their strength,
Aokiji and Kizaru lacked Akainu's fierce determination.
"Without a doubt, Luffy," Rayleigh replied confidently, his belief
unwavering.
"But are you certain? Akainu is no pushover," Whitebeard remarked,
acknowledging the Admiral's formidable strength.
"You'll see soon enough. Luffy's true strength will shine through,"
Rayleigh assured, reminiscing about Luffy's remarkable progress since
their encounter at Sabaody Archipelago.
As the conversation shifted, Whitebeard anticipated their imminent
involvement in the escalating war.
"The climax of the battle draws near," Whitebeard observed, recognizing
the pivotal role Luffy would play in determining its outcome.
Meanwhile, Rayleigh reflected on past encounters, expressing a longing
for the thrill of battle, particularly against Garp.
On the battlefield, Luffy's transformation unfolded rapidly, though it
seemed prolonged to onlookers. Akainu, recognizing the futility of
intervening, prepared to face Luffy head-on.
Sengoku observed with seriousness as Luffy's appearance shifted
completely, reminiscent of the form that had defeated Admiral Kizaru.
As tension mounted and anticipation grew, the fate of Ace hung in the
balance, awaiting the pivotal moment that would decide the course of the
war.
Radiating a gentle white light, Luffy's transformed form resembled that of
a legendary deity, captivating all who beheld it with its awe-inspiring
presence.
However, Akainu, ever defiant, challenged Luffy's new form with disdain,
claiming it lacked the same impact as before.
Before he could finish speaking, Luffy disappeared from view, his
movements too swift for Akainu to track.
With a thunderous impact, Luffy's fist connected squarely with Akainu's
face, sending the Admiral hurtling through walls like a cannonball.
Unfazed by the attack, Luffy declared his intent to engage Akainu in a
true battle, his laughter echoing through the chamber.
As Akainu struggled to his feet, blood staining his mouth from the blow,
he realized the severity of Luffy's power. It was the most significant
injury the Straw Hat had inflicted on him thus far.
But despite the pain, Akainu recognized the unprecedented level of
strength displayed by Luffy's fifth gear. It surpassed his expectations in
every aspect—speed, power, and Haki mastery.
At that moment, Akainu understood the true nature of the Straw Hat—a
formidable monster capable of surpassing all expectations. Luffy's fifth
gear stood as a testament to his unrivalled prowess—a monster among
monsters.
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61. Luffy On Gear 5, Whitebeard
Joins The Fight
Hahaha.
The smiling kid with the straw hat, even in this sad fight, stayed upbeat
and cheerful.
And that cheerfulness seemed to rub off on everyone around, making
them smile too.
But it didn't affect Akainu, his opponent. Instead, it made him colder
inside.
Seeing the boy in the straw hat, like a mythical god, made Akainu's
already cold face even uglier.
He felt rage boiling inside.
"Straw hat boy, you, a pirate with evil blood, deserve to be wiped out,"
Akainu yelled.
Dark red magma spewed from his body.
"Lava, volcano."
It was as strong as a volcanic eruption.
Akainu's lower body turned into dark red magma, propelling him toward
Luffy.
His fist grew, covered in layers of endless magma, forming a huge fist
aimed at Luffy.
With intense heat, it came crashing down.
"It's a scary attack. Admiral is terrifying."
Luffy watched the massive fist with exaggerated fear, feeling the intense
heat even from the ground.
But despite his words, Luffy watched calmly as if it were nothing.
Just as the fist was about to hit, Luffy acted like he had just noticed,
quickly plunging his hand into the ground and pulling up.
"Gommu Gommu no, bounce."
The name seemed random, and his expression wasn't serious.
But it was effective.
The ground in front of Luffy bounced like rubber, forming a shield.
Boom.
The magma fist hit the ground head-on.
But instead of melting or breaking, the ground just dented and then
bounced back with incredible elasticity.
The magma was sent flying back towards Akainu.
Boom.
The impact knocked Akainu to the ground, turning it into a magma floor-
like crater.
"The Straw Hat Kid."
From the dark red magma emerged a figure—it was Akainu.
He didn't take any damage since there was no Armament Haki on the
bounced-back magma. Being made of magma himself, he couldn't be hurt
by it.
But the humiliation stung.
His own attack had been turned against him.
Yet, even as anger simmered within him, Akainu calmly analyzed the
abilities of the Straw Hat Boy.
"The transformation is different from his previous fourth gear. It's not like
a Paramecia's ability but more akin to a Zoan's transformation. There's a
fundamental change."
Recalling Luffy's transformation, Akainu could easily see the difference.
Before, it was clear why Luffy could stretch and combine with Armament
Haki—that was the essence of the Rubber Fruit.
But now, it seemed like his original form, with strange wrist strength and
speed, that didn't fit the Paramecia category at all.
The fourth gear should have been the limit of the Rubber Fruit's power.
"However, turning the ground into rubber just now must be the
awakening of his Devil Fruit, aligning with the Paramecia fruit's
assimilation ability."
He always felt something was off.
"Why don't you keep attacking? It's boring, Akainu."
Luffy danced happily, seeming devoid of any negative emotions, only joy.
Even in battle, even with Ace nearby, he remained cheerful and relished
the fight.
"Since you're not making a move, then I'll go ahead, hahaha."
With that, Luffy vanished, reappearing above Akainu in an instant.
His legs arced high and extended.
"Gommu Gommu no Axe."
"So fast."
Even though Akainu was ready for Luffy's speed, it still caught him off
guard.
But thankfully, with preparations and knowledge, I can still catch it.
"Great Eruption."
A massive column of magma fire erupted from Akainu's body.
However, the straw hat boy's leg kept growing, seeming to enlarge as he
descended.
A colossal shadow instantly engulfed Akainu below.
Boom.
The feet, even larger than giants', stomped down, crushing the magma
pillar directly.
It was like stepping into a puddle.
Countless viscous magma splattered out like water droplets.
"Run! The fight between Straw Hat and Sakazuki Admiral has escalated."
Some Marines fled for their lives, as did pirates.
Not everyone had mastered Armament Haki.
Not everyone can defend themselves against magma using it.
Around Luffy and Akainu's battle, it seemed like a rain of magma was
falling.
No one dared to approach.
Even Jinbei, Vista, and the others who were previously watching couldn't
help but retreat.
They were mortal bodies and didn't want to touch the falling magma.
"It's hot."
Luffy's feet shrank instantly, and he screamed as he hugged them in the
sky.
His slippers had fallen off long ago, and now his bare feet were on the
magma, turning red.
But compared to Luffy's screams, people were surprised when they saw
Akainu.
"Cough, cough."
Akainu knelt on the magma, coughing lightly, dark red magma mixed
with blood dripping from his face.
He felt like he'd been stepped on by countless giants.
That kick just now had Armament Color and Conqueror's Haki attached.
"What was that?"
Akainu couldn't comprehend Luffy's attack.
Wasn't Straw Hat's move supposed to involve blowing air to enhance
strength and reach?
But that didn't happen. It seemed like, with just a thought, Luffy's body
had expanded.
"Damn it, Akainu."
Akainu, looking more miserable, hadn't spoken yet, while Luffy was like
an angered child.
An unmistakable expression of anger crossed Luffy's face, exaggerated
even more by his features.
"I'm gonna take you down, Akainu!" Luffy shouted furiously.
Suddenly, his leg muscles expanded like balloons.
A huge crater appeared where he stood, cracks spreading outwards, and
dust billowed like a massive ring.
Bang, bang, bang.
Countless white clouds formed sonic booms in a circular pattern,
exploding in the sky.
Luffy's speed was so swift that even Observation Haki struggled to keep
up.
Akainu didn't have time to react.
A terrifying pressure loomed behind him.
He didn't need to turn around to sense the Straw Hat Boy's raised fist of
anger.
Boom.
Invisible Conqueror's Haki entangled Akainu's head, crushing it instantly.
The power sent shockwaves through the air like columns.
Akainu's head hit the ground in an instant, blood spraying.
"Gommu Gommu no gattling!"
Luffy roared as his fists rained down like a storm, their speed almost
imperceptible, only the movement of his shoulders visible as he became a
blur.
It was as if invisible strikes were pounding the ground.
The earth shook, massive cracks forming.
<em>"Meigo</em>!"
Amidst Luffy's barrage, Akainu gritted his teeth, transforming into a dark
red hunting dog—slender and lightning-fast—aiming for Luffy's face.
"I've seen right through you."
In Luffy's eyes, a white light flashed, his head snapping sideways as the
white streak in his pupils sliced through the air.
The dark red magma hound grazed Luffy's face, the intense heat
reddening his cheeks slightly.
Just as the hound passed through Luffy and began to revert to its normal
form, a white-lighted hand forcefully grabbed it and pulled back hard.
The high temperature and Armament Haki of the magma instantly caused
violent friction.
At such close range, the Armament Haki only held for a moment before
breaking, turning Luffy's palm black. Yet, he pulled back as if unfazed.
"Gommu Gommu no, King Kong Gun."
Luffy's left hand pulled back Akainu, now formed of magma, while his
right fist swelled, solidifying with Armament Haki, and retracted deeply
into his wrist.
There was a piercing sound of pressure.
As Akainu returned, he collided with Luffy's fist.
Boom.
The one-punch Ape King struck at close range.
In this fifth gear state, the fourth gear was reinforced with elasticity to
increase force.
Boom.
Countless sonic booms exploded radially, creating a storm on the ground.
Ahead of Luffy's fist, a horizontal tornado of white smoke and dust
formed.
Akainu smashed into the thick protective wall, creating huge cracks.
Luffy breathed heavily.
In this fifth-gear state, his physical strength drained rapidly despite being
able to sustain fourth gear for long periods.
Though only minutes had passed, he felt as though he'd fought fiercely.
But the power of the fifth gear was undeniable.
Against Akainu in fourth gear, whether in Snake Man or Elastic Man
form, Luffy was slightly disadvantaged. But in this fifth-gear state, he
easily dominated Akainu in strength and speed.
"Sakazuki Admiral was defeated?"
"Did that Straw Hat kid really take down an Admiral so quickly?"
"Is Sakazuki already beaten?"
Even Kizaru, in the distance, heard the Marine soldiers' collapsing shouts.
Though his heart sank, he didn't doubt the news.
Because no one understood the Straw Hat Kid's strength better than him.
In this state, Luffy surpassed anyone at sea.
Even Sakazuki couldn't match him.
"Hateful."
Sengoku, on the execution platform, gazed at the Straw Hat boy below, a
faint golden light reflecting on his face.
He couldn't help but feel the urge to act. The Straw Hat Boy's newfound
strength surpassed everyone's expectations. Even Sengoku, who had
heard Kizaru's account, was deeply shocked.
"To be honest, Sengoku, don't worry," Garp said, looking toward where
Akainu had fallen, the smoke swirling around. "Sakazuki isn't someone to
underestimate."
Before Garp could finish, boom! Countless magma poured out from the
protective wall, brightening the battlefield under the dark clouds.
Akainu leaned against the wall, slowly standing up. The hole he'd
smashed seemed to have turned into a crater. Magma gathered under his
feet, turning the ground into a river of fire.
"Straw Hat boy, you little bastard, that really hurt," Akainu panted, blood
staining his face.
"Admirals are tough," Luffy muttered. "No matter how hard you hit them,
they just keep coming."
"However many times it takes, I'll keep beating you until I win," Luffy
declared, his face full of determination.
"Let me show you how the top Logia powerhouse fights," Akainu
whispered, magma spewing around him, transforming the battlefield.
"This is our final battle," Luffy said, undeterred by the spreading magma.
On the Moby Dick, Whitebeard's expression changed. "It's time for us old
guys to step in, Rayleigh."
Boom! Whitebeard leapt off the bow, causing the ice to crack beneath
him.
"Have you felt the shift in the battlefield?" Rayleigh followed suit,
jumping off lightly.
"Dad's at war," Whitebeard's presence inspired the pirates on the ice.
Though Luffy displayed terrifying strength, his reputation still paled in
comparison to Whitebeard's legendary status.
"Kingdew, make way!" Whitebeard commanded.
"Dad?" Kingdew quickly complied, stepping aside as if avoiding a
disaster.
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62. Marine's Heroes, Monsters Of
Old Times
The Whitebeard Pirates rushed away quickly while the Marines stood
frozen, puzzled.
"Scram, Marine brats, gooooooooooooo!" Whitebeard laughed loudly.
With his long sword in one hand, Whitebeard leapt high, muscles bulging
as he punched the air in front of him.
The air seemed solid as crystal before Whitebeard, then shattered like
glass, creating cracks across the sky.
Boom! A shockwave spread rapidly, sweeping away figures like fallen
leaves, destroying everything in its path.
In an instant, a wide pathway was cleared on the crowded ice battlefield.
Rayleigh, standing beside Whitebeard, couldn't help but admire his
immense destructive power.
Sengoku's face turned ugly as he watched Whitebeard join the battle from
afar, his eyes filled with fear. He knew firsthand Whitebeard's power
from their past battles.
Though Whitebeard's ambition might not match others', his destructive
abilities were unmatched, capable of instantly crushing soldiers' morale.
Sengoku had called upon the Shichibukai and three Admirals, even
recalling Tsuru and Garp, to deal with Whitebeard.
Despite the Straw Hat Pirates' terrifying power, Sengoku realized most of
their forces were reserved for countering Whitebeard alone.
Now that Whitebeard was in the fray, Sengoku found himself lacking the
power to stop him.
Admiral-level combatants are evenly matched, with no clear winner
emerging.
Only Garp and Tsuru remain, but Tsuru's strength pales in comparison to
Whitebeard and Rayleigh.
Garp, torn between duty and family, hesitates to act, knowing he's the
last defence for Fire Fist Ace.
Helplessly, Sengoku watches as Whitebeard effortlessly clears a path to
the execution square, Marine soldiers scattering like leaves in the wind.
Despite being on Marine turf, Whitebeard now holds the advantage, with
two legendary fighters unbound by restrictions, threatening to tip the
delicate balance of power.
As Whitebeard and Pluton Rayleigh step onto the square, Marine forces
falter momentarily, their flawless facade cracking under the pressure.
In war, there's no room for one-on-one combat. Marines could easily
overwhelm them with combined attacks.
"Garp, snap out of it!" Sengoku's voice breaks through.
Ace gazes at Garp, his heart heavy with unspoken words. He knows
Garp's emotional nature and even a simple plea could sway him,
disrupting the fragile balance further.
The turmoil within one of the strongest Marines could shift the tide of
battle.
In the end, Ace refrains from saying anything to unsettle Garp,
understanding his inner conflict and pain. From the depths of the sea
prison to the execution platform, Ace has purposely avoided engaging
with Garp.
He knows his chosen path as a pirate may clash with Garp's, and he's
prepared for the consequences. Though he may regret his decision in the
end, he refuses to burden others, especially his family, with his own fate.
This is his pride.
Ace respects Garp's choices and won't interfere. Despite Sengoku's call,
Garp has already made his decision.
With a burst of speed, Garp vanishes from the platform, reappearing in
the distant battlefield. A massive cloud of smoke rises, and the ground
cracks beneath him.
"If you dare trample on justice, you'll have to go through me!" Garp's
voice booms across the battlefield, rallying Marine morale.
Though not in a leadership position, Garp's reputation among lower-
ranked Marines is unmatched. His roar inspires others to follow his lead.
In terms of rank, Garp may not be comparable to Sengoku, but his
influence among the middle and lower ranks of the Marines is
undeniable.
Garp's legendary life, his bold character, and his respected demeanour
among Marines have earned him high status among Marine soldiers. In
their hearts, he's more than just a leader like Sengoku; he's an idol and a
symbol of justice.
Truth be told, Garp is even more popular among top combatants. Aokiji
admires him greatly, and the alternate Admirals have a close bond with
him.
"Looking good as always, Mr. Garp," Aokiji remarks upon hearing Garp's
roar. His demeanour shifts, shedding his usual laziness for a more serious
tone. Sensing this change, Marco recognizes Aokiji's newfound resolve.
Behind Aokiji, Tsuru, another Vice Admiral, steps forward. She, Garp,
and Sengoku are strong figures from the same era. Though not as
powerful as Garp, Tsuru commands respect and has made significant
contributions.
"I'm too old for this. I need you to handle those two monsters," Tsuru tells
Aokiji calmly, acknowledging her limitations.
Aokiji nods, his confusion momentarily lifted by Garp's words. He focuses
on the task at hand, drawing on the passion of his youth.
Marco tries to intercept Aokiji, but Tsuru intervenes with a dangerous
touch that sends a clear warning. She challenges Marco to avert chaos on
the battlefield and uphold Marine superiority.
In the chaos of battle, Marine power reigns supreme.
The interference of the Straw Hat boy threw things off balance, making it
seem like Marine forces were at a disadvantage. However, it was just a
minor adjustment between Tsuru and Aokiji.
The battlefield, which teetered due to Whitebeard and Rayleigh's
involvement, quickly regained its equilibrium.
"Long time no see, Garp," Whitebeard greeted, his eyes serious yet
carrying a hint of a smile.
"You were a worthy opponent back in the day," Garp replied, tension
evident in his clenched fists. He's angry, seeking a battle to distract
himself from the pain of choosing between justice and family.
With a stomp, Garp launches into action, using Moonwalk to swiftly close
the distance between him and Whitebeard. Their fists collide with a force
that seems to freeze the air.
As their fists clash, the world seems to hold its breath. Then, a violent
explosion of light erupts from their positions, cracking the ground and
turning it into ash.
The shockwave ripples outwards, disintegrating everything in its path as
Whitebeard and Garp are engulfed by the blinding light.
Marineford trembles as the island quakes beneath the force of the battle.
Naval Headquarters begins to crack, with fissures large enough to
swallow a man forming across the island.
"Watch out for the ground cracks!" a seasoned member of the Whitebeard
Pirates warns loudly.
Marine soldiers gaze in shock as the sky above Marineford, shrouded in
thick black clouds from the intense battle, splits apart, revealing a
massive crack. It's a terrifying sight, unprecedented in any battle before.
"The Strongest among pirates and the Strongest Among Marines,"
someone whispers, acknowledging the power behind the ominous
phenomenon.
Rayleigh can't help but marvel at Garp's formidable strength despite his
age. Comparing himself to Garp, Rayleigh notices Garp's body is
remarkably well-maintained, almost unchanged from twenty years ago.
However, Whitebeard's condition is dire. Long-term battles have taken
their toll, exacerbated by his heart condition. Using Conqueror's Haki is a
significant burden, yet he faces Garp without faltering.
As the light waves dissipate, Garp and Whitebeard appear unfazed by
their earth-shattering clash, their demeanour unchanged.
But Whitebeard's words strike Garp's nerves, reminding him of the
complicated relationship with the legendary pirate, Gold D Roger. Garp's
already sombre mood darkens further with Whitebeard's mention of
Roger's terminal illness and eventual surrender.
The revelation adds fuel to Garp's already turbulent emotions, stirring
regret and sorrow within him.
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63. Go To The Bottom Of The Sea
For Me, Akainu
Boom boom boom. A massive shockwave erupted over Marineford,
tearing through the sky with terrifying force. The battle between
Whitebeard and Garp commanded everyone's attention on the battlefield.
Their clash is not about speed but sheer brute strength. Whitebeard, the
man with unrivalled destructive power, faces off against Garp, who has
mastered armed Conqueror's Haki to its pinnacle. Each confrontation is a
display of raw violence, shaking the ground and sending shockwaves
rippling through the air.
"Are those two old men really in their seventies or eighties?" Some
observers marvel at the ferocity of their battle, a testament to the
strength of the bygone era they hail from.
Meanwhile, Shusui and Sandai Kitetsu hold off Yoru as Hawkeye and
Zoro close in. Their duel is less about life and death and more about the
exchange of swordsmanship between two skilled practitioners.
Zoro and Hawkeye's fight is relaxed compared to the intensity of other
battles. Both fighters respect each other's skills and understand the
significance of their duel in holding back a Grand Line powerhouse.
As they exchange blows, Zoro reflects on the courage and passion
displayed by Whitebeard and Garp, despite their advanced age. Their
resilience and bravery put the younger generation to shame.
Hawkeye explains to Zoro that, in their prime, Garp and Whitebeard
stood alongside Gol D. Roger, the King of the Pirates. Their current
display of courage is not surprising, considering their legendary status.
Hawkeye recalls Gol D. Roger's execution twenty years ago, where the
pirate king's courage left a lasting impression on him and everyone
present.
Amidst the chaos, the clash of their blades echoes through the battlefield,
a testament to the strength and determination of two legendary figures.
Boom!
The clash between Garp's fist and Whitebeard's long sword reverberates
across Marineford.
"Is that all you've got, Garp? Are your fists that weak?" Whitebeard
taunts, gripping his naginata tightly with both hands. The blade emits a
white halo, a combination of Sword Wave, Haki, and the power of the
Shock Fruit.
Boom! Whitebeard unleashes a relentless barrage of strikes, each blow
creating countless atmospheric cracks that spread like spider webs across
Marineford. The ground quakes, the sea churns, and the sky splits open
as if the world is coming to an end.
This is the strength of the world's strongest man, Whitebeard. Despite
Garp's formidable abilities, he's unable to overpower Whitebeard in his
current state. Yet, Whitebeard's laughter belies the pain he feels, his body
on the brink of collapse.
But he pushes through, driven by his willpower and pride. "Wait for me,
Ace," he vows, his gaze unwavering. With his Haki-infused eyes, he locks
onto his target, exuding a terrifying aura.
"I am Whitebeard!" he roars, his long sword unleashing devastation upon
devastation. The air shatters before him, cracks spreading like a fractured
mirror across the battlefield. Marineford trembles violently as if it's being
dismantled piece by piece.
The distant sea level looms ominously, threatening to engulf Marineford
if not for Aokiji's intervention. His massive ice barrier prevents a tsunami
from inundating the island, but the towering waves still inspire fear in all
who behold them.
The symbol of Marine justice, Naval Headquarters, is in danger of being
swallowed by the rising sea. The ground cracks widen into chasms,
revealing the water below.
In this moment, Whitebeard's will surpasses his frail body, unleashing a
strength reminiscent of his prime. Desperate cries fill the air as the
battlefield trembles under the force of his onslaught.
Garp, too, is battered by Whitebeard's relentless assault, blood staining
his figure as he struggles to rise from the rubble. He's astonished by the
power Whitebeard wields, far beyond what his current condition should
allow.
It's clear that Whitebeard is fighting with everything he has, his last burst
of vitality fueling his ferocious attacks. This battle isn't about victory or
defeat—it's about leaving a mark on history, even if it costs him his life.
For Whitebeard, this battlefield is his final resting place. He's accepted his
fate, embracing his role as a relic of the old era in the face of the new
generation represented by the Straw Hat crew.
With a defiant roar, Whitebeard proclaims the dawn of a new era, urging
Garp to open his eyes to the changing tide. His words carry the weight of
history, inspiring both pirates and Marines alike.
As his voice echoes across the battlefield, it leaves an indelible mark on
the hearts of all who hear it. Whitebeard's legacy, heavy with the history
of the old era, propels the ship of the new era forward, even as his own
journey nears its end.
A glint appeared in the corner of Rayleigh's eye as if he could see their
glorious past in Whitebeard's resolute voice.
"Dad," Ace sobbed uncontrollably on the execution platform, his head
bowed in despair. Sengoku, beside him, clenched his teeth in frustration.
Garp's entry into the battle, coupled with Whitebeard's rallying cry,
instantly turned the tide of the entire battlefield. Sengoku felt a heavy
realization settle in his heart, darkening his gaze.
Rayleigh, drawing his long knife, pointed it squarely at Aokiji, exuding
an aura of determination and strength that was impossible to ignore. His
voice, heavy with the weight of an era, echoed loudly.
Aokiji, taken aback by Rayleigh's sudden assertiveness, felt a surge of
confusion. He couldn't match Rayleigh's sharpness or Whitebeard's heroic
resolve. Garp's earlier intervention had stirred doubts in Aokiji's mind,
not just about justice but about the very nature of pirates and their
motivations.
Meanwhile, Whitebeard, ever perceptive, knew the true turning point of
the battle. It wasn't with them, nor with Roronoa or Blackfoot Sanji. The
real catalyst was none other than the Straw Hat kid, brimming with
boundless potential.
"Come on, Straw Hat," Whitebeard called out despite coughing up blood
and feeling the strain on his heart. His laughter rang out defiantly, a
testament to his unwavering spirit.
"Save Ace!" Luffy's cry echoed across the battlefield.
"Got it, Whitebeard," Luffy responded, his voice resonating with
determination.
"Gommu Gommu no, Giant!" With a tremendous roar, Luffy transformed
into a colossal figure, towering over the entire battlefield.
"Lie down, Akainu!" Luffy's voice thundered as he unleashed his attack,
"Gomu Gomu no Giant Gatling!"
His fist enveloped in flames and imbued with Haki, descended upon
Akainu with overwhelming force.
"Straw Hat Kid!" Akainu's voice boomed, surrounded by swirling magma.
With a mighty roar, their clash erupted, shattering the sky and sending
shockwaves rippling across the battlefield.
As the two clashed with unparalleled ferocity, Luffy pushed himself to his
limits, blood pumping from his body. But he pressed on, his
determination unyielding as he continued to unleash his barrage of
attacks.
The ground trembled beneath their feet as the impact reverberated across
Marineford. The sheer force of Luffy's attack had pierced through the
island, creating a massive crater that revealed the sea below.
Hawkeye, witnessing the spectacle, couldn't help but feel a sense of
understanding towards his friend's choice. Shanks had entrusted Luffy
with something profound, and now it was clear why.
Kizaru, descending from the sky, acknowledged the terrifying power of
the Straw Hat Boy. He had seen firsthand the potential Luffy possessed,
especially when utilizing his Gear Fifth ability. Sakazuki's defeat at
Luffy's hands only confirmed Kizaru's suspicions about the young pirate's
strength.
The battlefield had shifted, the balance disrupted by Luffy's
overwhelming power. As the dust settled and the echoes of the clash
faded, Marineford stood witness to the aftermath of the Straw Hat Kid's
devastating blow.
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64. Ace Is Rescued, Crazy Both
Sides
Kizaru let out a sigh of relief as he pondered the situation. If he hadn't
acted swiftly and chosen his opponent wisely, he might have found
himself facing the infamous straw hat-wearing boy.
While Black Leg Sanji posed a formidable challenge, he paled in
comparison to the Straw Hat's formidable abilities, especially his elusive
fifth gear. One could handle the present, while the other could knock you
out cold no matter how hard you tried.
All eyes on the battlefield were fixed on the falling figure of the straw hat
boy. In him, they saw the embodiment of the future, an unstoppable
force ushering in a new era. From this moment on, his name would echo
across the seas and reach the pinnacle of notoriety.
"Did you witness that, Garp? The scales of victory have tipped," chuckled
Whitebeard, his laughter ringing out.
He knew the Straw Hat wouldn't let him down; his resilience was nothing
short of miraculous.
"Go on, Straw Hat kid," Whitebeard urged, gracefully wielding his long
sword, driving Garp back, and shouting to Luffy, "Save Ace."
Echoes of encouragement reverberated across the battlefield, lifting the
spirits of the pirates and casting a shadow over the Marines' morale.
"Come on, Straw Hat!" cheered the Whitebeard Pirates.
"Come on, Luffy!" Zoro's deep voice resonated amidst the clash of swords.
"Come on, Luffy, you've endured enough," Chopper bellowed, sounding
almost beast-like.
"You have to rescue your big brother, Luffy!" cried one of the Straw Hats'
allies on the Moby Dick, brandishing a marked arm.
"Come on, Ace's little bro, save him!" Marco urged wings outstretched as
cyan flames rained down.
Each voice was like a pair of wings propelling Luffy forward. Despite his
depleted strength from using fifth gear excessively, his resolve remained
unyielding. His heartbeat thundered like a drum, signalling another bout
of battle.
And just like that, his shrivelled form filled out once more, bathed in
white light as he effortlessly activated fifth gear once again, his
determination unwavering.
"Out of my way!" he roared.
The Marines, caught off guard by the sudden charge, stood stunned as
Luffy soared above them, landing on the iron execution platform in a few
swift bounds.
"Luffy!" Ace exclaimed, tears of joy welling up in his eyes. His younger
brother had gone to extraordinary lengths to rescue him.
"Luffy, the Straw Hat."
As soon as Luffy set foot on the execution platform, a brilliant golden
light erupted from Sengoku's form, accompanied by a deep, imposing
roar. Thump, thump, thump, thump—iron screws were expelled from the
platform like bullets, causing it to groan and tremble under the strain.
With a solemn expression, Luffy shielded Ace from the impending
danger.
Before them stood a colossal golden Buddha statue, unmistakably admiral
Sengoku. However, he now emanated a terrifying aura, completely
transformed into a golden deity.
"Sinner of the world, Straw Hat boy, do you comprehend the gravity of
your actions?" Sengoku's voice boomed as he raised his palm, gathering a
formidable shockwave.
"Impact Wave! Face judgment, Straw Hat!" he declared.
In response, Luffy inflated his body into a giant balloon, enveloping it in
Armament Haki and Conqueror's Haki, bracing for impact against
Sengoku's onslaught.
Boom! A tremendous shockwave erupted, causing the execution platform
to crumble under the immense pressure, sending debris flying.
Amidst the chaos, Luffy, surrounded by white steam, breathed heavily as
he swiftly retreated from the platform, leaving the spectators in awe.
Meanwhile, across the globe, people watched in disbelief as the boy
named Luffy, with Marine's full force against him, successfully rescued
Fire Fist Ace.
With Ace safe, Whitebeard commanded his crew to prepare for retreat,
his laughter echoing heroically. With a powerful swing, he repelled the
dazed Garp, then unleashed a devastating attack that shook the world.
As Whitebeard's mighty gesture rent the earth asunder, the Naval
Headquarters crumbled, and chaos ensued. Pirates scrambled for safety
as the sea itself rebelled against the upheaval.
Amidst the turmoil, a call rang out to Luffy, urging him to bring Ace to
safety.
On the grand ship beside the Moby Dick, several logistics crew of the
Whitebeard Pirates shouted skyward. The crew had already prepared for
the seastone handcuffs, knowing they posed a challenge to break directly.
Despite being top-notch, these Naval Headquarters handcuffs were still
just locks. With the sheer number of Whitebeard Pirates present, opening
a cuff without a key took mere seconds. Once the cuffs were off, Ace's
survival was almost guaranteed, given his formidable strength close to
that of an Admiral.
"I'm on it!" Luffy declared, bounding through the air with his exaggerated
fifth gear ability, defying all rules.
However, his progress was halted by an impalpable barrier. A sense of
dread washed over him as his body rapidly deteriorated, a consequence
of pushing beyond his limits. Despite his incredible feats, his physical
endurance couldn't match up to an Admiral's, relying heavily on his Devil
Fruit powers to amplify his strength.
In his exhausted state, Luffy's descent was met with worried cries from
those watching. Meanwhile, the Marines saw an opportunity to seize Ace.
"Attack Luffy, seize Ace!" Sengoku's command echoed across the
battlefield as the colossal golden Buddha rushed towards the fallen Straw
Hat Boy.
The broadcast of this intense battle reached viewers worldwide,
capturing the attention of countless spectators.
The live broadcast of the war was visible to large islands and countries,
witnessing the rescue of Fire Fist Ace, a severe blow to the Marine and
the World Government's reputation. If the Whitebeard Pirates managed to
escape with Ace, the battle would lose all significance, and the Marines
would be left with their honour in tatters.
Sengoku faced a dilemma: either stop Ace and abandon the idea of
punishment, resorting to lethal force, or risk the complete annihilation of
the Straw Hat and Whitebeard Pirates. The latter option seemed
impossible, leaving only the former.
"Marines, do you want to be branded as the shame of the world? Justice
is behind us," Sengoku declared sternly, aware that they had reached a
point of no return.
His plea rallied the Marines, positioning them on the precipice of
redemption or downfall. They had no choice but to press forward and
capture Fire Fist Ace, their last hope for redemption.
Meanwhile, Kizaru, despite his reluctance, acknowledged the importance
of upholding justice. Despite the weight of their supposed justice, Sanji
reminded him of the dreams and comrades they fought for, fueling their
resolve.
Sanji's body ignited with flames as he prepared to face Kizaru head-on,
his determination unyielding in the face of adversity.
The high-temperature flames, entwined with Conqueror's and Armament
Haki, blazed fiercely, casting a dark and ominous hue like the fires of hell
upon the world's stage.
Thump, thump, thump—the air resonated with the explosive sound of
each footfall, leaving black-flamed footprints imprinted in the sky.
Suddenly, a burst of intense light and dark flames engulfed the sunlight,
leaving behind only pure fire and golden waves.
"Luffy!" Zoro's voice rang out as he watched Luffy plummet from the sky.
In an instant, he vanished before Hawkeye's eyes, leaving the swordsman
to silently observe.
Hawkeye made no attempt to intervene, knowing his strength was more
than enough to prevent Zoro from rescuing Luffy. Despite his former
Marine-hunting exploits and his current status as a Shichibukai, Hawkeye
didn't take his position seriously. His involvement in the war was largely
due to Whitebeard's participation and his recognition of both Luffy and
Zoro.
"You've chosen a new path as a swordsman," Hawkeye remarked,
acknowledging Zoro's growth and the emergence of his Asura spirit.
Zoro's resolve solidified, his path as a swordsman clearer than ever,
fueled by the will of those before him.
"Hm, the Way of Asura? Intriguing. Until we meet again, it'll be a true
swordsman's duel," Hawkeye declared, sheathing his sword.
Witnessing Zoro's development as a swordsman was beneficial for
Hawkeye, offering insight into a potential rival.
"Marine's brat, if you lack the will, step aside and leave this battlefield to
me," Rayleigh's voice boomed a rare display of intensity after twenty
years.
Since Roger's death, Rayleigh hadn't truly unleashed his full strength in
ages. While his physical decline wasn't significant, his mental decline was
undeniable. Without this war and his encounter with Luffy, his
determination to remain strong would have waned.
"Move aside!" Rayleigh's form vanished in an instant, leaving behind a
massive hemispherical crater where he had stood. Surrounded by
countless sword-like auras, he propelled himself towards Aokiji like a
sharp blade, slicing through the ground with each step.
"ICE TIME!" Aokiji's right hand swung fiercely, unleashing an
overwhelming wave of cold that froze everything in its path.
As the chaos unfolded and Fire Fist Ace was snatched from the scaffold,
both Marines and pirates alike descended into madness.
In Rayleigh's eyes, a crimson light gleamed, reminiscent of a scarlet
comet streaking through the sky.
"God Evades!" he bellowed, channelling not only his own power but also
the will and techniques of his late comrade, Roger.
In an instant, everything seemed distorted around Rayleigh. The cold
shockwave appeared to sink directly into the ground as he reappeared
behind Aokiji, his body encased in frost. Nearby, Marines knelt, blood
staining the icy surface beneath him.
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65. Summit War, The Winner Is
Already Decided
Aokiji found himself kneeling on the ground, clutching his side as he
coughed violently, blood staining his lips. Despite dodging Rayleigh's
slash, he still suffered an injury, the red mark on his waist steadily
expanding.
"Invisible Slash," Aokiji murmured, acknowledging the unseen attack that
had wounded him.
Rayleigh remained silent, his form fading into an afterimage and
disappearing in an instant.
As Aokiji rose to his feet, the injury slowed his movements, a critical
moment that tipped the scales of battle.
Meanwhile, Garp's attention wavered as he watched Ace and Luffy, torn
between family and duty. The conflict within him reflected in his sharp
eyes, a rare display of confusion.
Whitebeard seized the opportunity, striking Garp back before striding
towards Luffy.
"Leave it to me, Straw Hat boy!" Sengoku's thunderous voice boomed as
he descended from the sky, crushing the ground beneath him. The
Whitebeard Pirates, bloodied but resolute, cowered in fear at the sight of
the formidable Marine commander.
Facing Sengoku's overwhelming presence, even the bravest among them
trembled, their will to fight extinguished.
Sengoku wasted no time, unleashing a powerful shockwave with his
golden palm aimed directly at Luffy.
But before the attack could connect, a defiant voice rang out.
"Stand down, my body. Protect me!"
Luffy, weakened and desperate, gazed at the blinding golden light above
him, roaring in frustration. His exhausted body refused to obey even the
simplest commands, rendered as immobile as a statue.
In his moment of despair, a gentle voice pierced through the chaos,
offering solace. A powerful figure descended, shielding Luffy from harm.
"Ace!" Luffy cried out in anguish, fearing that his efforts had been in vain.
Whitebeard, witnessing the scene unfold, felt a surge of determination,
his eyes shimmering with intensity. Despite his proximity, he was
powerless to intervene, a small oversight threatening to derail their plans.
But in a split second, salvation arrived from an unexpected source. An
explosion rocked the battlefield as a powerful attack, akin to that of a
Shichibukai, struck Sengoku's golden Buddha form, causing him to falter.
Amidst the chaos, Sengoku unleashed a devastating shockwave, wreaking
havoc upon the surroundings. Luffy and Ace, both weakened and bound,
were left defenceless against the onslaught, the flying debris piercing
their bodies like bullets.
Yet, despite their vulnerability, this was still the best outcome they could
hope for.
The impact was imminent, a collision that could have spelt the end for
both Whitebeard and Luffy. Yet, they remained alive, swept into the air
by the force of the aftermath, their robust physical resilience allowing
them to endure.
"Ace!" Luffy's voice rang out, even as he soared through the air.
"I'm here," Ace responded; their survival was the only silver lining amidst
the chaos.
On the Moby Dick, Usopp grinned proudly, reminding everyone of his
prowess as the sniper of the Straw Hat Pirates.
Meanwhile, Sengoku seethed with fury, realizing his opportunity had
been squandered. With a twist of his body, he aimed his golden palm at
Ace and Luffy, intent on finishing them off.
But before he could strike, three overwhelming forces surged behind him,
suffocating him with their murderous intent. Sengoku felt like he was
being watched by the spirits of hell, the shadows behind him emanating a
sinister aura.
"Sengoku," three voices thundered, demanding Ace and Luffy's safety.
Reluctantly, Sengoku turned to face Whitebeard, whose eyes gleamed
with determination. Alongside him stood an apparition resembling the
legendary conqueror of the Grand Line.
In a flurry of motion, three distinct attacks struck Sengoku, sending
shockwaves rippling through the air. The colossal force launched
Sengoku thousands of meters away, his fate unknown.
Witnessing the spectacle, onlookers marvelled at the clash between old
legends and new heroes, with Luffy at the centre.
"Dad is incredible," exclaimed one.
"So cool, Zoro!" cheered another.
"Hurry, ship doctor, release Ace from his chains!" urged a member of the
Whitebeard Pirates.
Amidst the jubilant cheers, the pirates rushed to free Luffy and Ace, the
heavy chains falling to the ground with a satisfying click.
With the expertise of the Whitebeard Pirates' unlocking specialists, the
seastone handcuffs were swiftly removed, freeing Ace from their
constraints. As the flames of his Logia ability ignited around him, Ace
extended a hand to Luffy, his smile warm and brotherly.
"Luffy, you silly fool," Ace chuckled, his flames harmless to his friend.
Amidst Whitebeard's command to evacuate, Ace expressed his gratitude
and affection for the fatherly figure he looked up to. Whitebeard's simple
yet heartfelt words moved Ace to tears, a testament to the bond they
shared.
As the Whitebeard Pirates hurried back to their ship, Garp observed the
chaos with conflicted emotions. Though aware of the need to act against
the pirates, he found himself unable to oppose Ace's rescue. The thought
of betraying the son he had raised was too much to bear.
Despite the temporary relief of Ace's rescue, the danger was far from
over. The first half of the Grand Line remained a treacherous territory,
with the constant threat of World Government and Marine intervention.
Only in the safety of the New World could they truly find sanctuary.
Meanwhile, Sengoku's fate remained uncertain, and his clash with
Whitebeard left him incapacitated and vulnerable. Garp's inner turmoil
mirrored the uncertainty of the situation, torn between his duty as a
Marine and his love for his family.
Caught in a daze, Garp struggled to find his footing amidst the chaos.
Eventually, he resorted to his fists, knocking out a few pirates around
him in a futile attempt to regain control.
Ace's escape sent shockwaves through the Marine ranks, causing morale
to plummet. Even Kizaru, renowned for his nonchalant demeanour,
couldn't hide his frustration. His once pristine attire was now torn and
bloodied, a testament to the fierce battle he had endured.
Sanji, equally worse for wear, panted heavily as he hovered in the air.
Despite their formidable strength, the Straw Hat Pirates' Three Powers
were not immune to fatigue. Their physical limits, though enhanced, still
fell short of the veteran Admirals they faced.
However, it was their unwavering will and evolved fighting skills that set
them apart. Zoro's mastery of the sword and Sanji's powerful kicks
surpassed even the Admirals' techniques. This combination of skill and
determination made them formidable opponents.
As Sanji locked eyes with Kizaru, a sense of determination emanated
from his gaze. It was a reminder to Kizaru of the youthful vigour that
drove the Straw Hat Pirates forward.
In that moment, Kizaru couldn't help but reflect on Whitebeard's words.
The passing of time was inevitable, and perhaps their era had come to an
end. As the young Straw Hat Pirates continued to defy expectations,
Kizaru couldn't help but wonder if their time had truly passed.
As the chaos of battle subsided, Tsuru couldn't help but sigh at the
miscalculations that led to their defeat. Despite their meticulous planning
and overwhelming power, they had underestimated the Straw Hat
Pirates.
Surrounded by allies and legends of old, the straw hat boy stood as a
symbol of the new era, his strength surpassing all expectations. Tsuru
recognized that their downfall came from overlooking this crucial fact.
In the midst of Marine's despair, a soldier's desperate cry for a doctor
echoed through the battlefield. The defeat of Zephyr, a former Admiral,
at the hands of a mere pet with a 50 Baileys bounty seemed absurd and
demoralizing.
Zephyr's own discomfort was exacerbated by the incredulous voices
around him. He struggled with an asthma attack, bewildered by the
notion that he had been defeated by such a seemingly insignificant
opponent.
The Marine's confusion only deepened as they faced adversaries with
abilities rivalling those of monsters. These were no mere pirates with
modest bounties but formidable opponents capable of challenging even
an Admiral.
In the face of such unexpected strength, Crane and her allies could only
reflect on their miscalculations and regroup for the challenges that lay
ahead. The new era had arrived, and they would need to adapt to survive
in this ever-changing world.
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66. Kong, Blackbeard, And The
Intensified War
Zephyr felt deeply embarrassed.
He was certain of one thing, no matter the circumstances.
Unfortunately, after today's events, he's now with the Marines.
He was the former Admiral defeated by the Fifty Bailey Pirates.
"I've got to increase Tony Tony Chopper's bounty when I get back. The
higher, the better," Zephyr thought to himself, taking a sharp breath.
Chopper observed the former Admiral, now kneeling weakly before him,
struggling to catch his breath.
The signs of illness were evident in his opponent.
But it was a condition that couldn't be cured, only managed.
It was hard to believe.
The seasoned Marine who had just moments ago stood toe-to-toe with
him now struggled with asthma.
Despite his age and ailment, he still wielded formidable strength.
Zephyr was indeed a formidable opponent, akin to a monster.
Little did Chopper know, he was seen as a monster in Zephyr's eyes as
well.
Chopper faced the ailing Zephyr but refrained from attacking.
As a doctor, it went against his principles to harm a patient in distress.
Yet, he had no means to treat him either.
With no medication at hand for asthma, Chopper could only hope for the
Marine doctors to provide aid.
"Back to the New World, everyone," Whitebeard commanded.
Under the leadership of their Captain and Vice Captain, the Whitebeard
Pirates commenced an orderly evacuation.
The weaker members boarded the ships first, while the stronger captains
remained behind.
Thanks to Luffy's earlier intervention, a large portion of the Marine
soldiers on the protective wall were incapacitated by Conqueror's Haki.
As a result, the coastal artillery remained inactive, allowing the pirate
ships to approach unhindered.
"Fire Punch!" Ace leapt into the air and unleashed a blazing punch.
A massive flame tornado engulfed the sea, vaporizing the ice remnants
left by Whitebeard's tsunami and clearing the way for the pirate
evacuation.
The Whitebeard Pirates swiftly retreated, encountering feeble resistance
from the Marines.
The sudden influx of Admiral-level adversaries caught everyone off
guard.
With so many powerful opponents, the elite Marine soldiers, numbering
only 26, found themselves largely ineffective.
Recruited from Marine Bases worldwide, they played a minimal role in
the conflict.
Engaging in direct combat was out of the question, given the
overwhelming presence of Admiral-level adversaries.
Even the mid-level Marine fighters struggled to make an impact, finding
themselves at a significant disadvantage.
The elite Vice Admirals stationed at headquarters battled fiercely against
the captains of Whitebeard's pirate crew, struggling even more against
the stronger ones.
The top-tier fighters of the Marines were tied down, unable to provide
support to their comrades.
The middle ranks of the Marines found themselves overwhelmed by the
seasoned cadre of the Whitebeard Pirates.
And now, with Sengoku being attacked by three assailants
simultaneously, his fate unknown, the Marines' top fighters were at a
disadvantage.
The chances of turning the tide were slim.
"Let them retreat," Tsuru said calmly. "Continuing this battle will only
lead to more losses. We must accept defeat if it comes to that."
Vice Admiral Kizaru's expression shifted, but he remained silent in
response to Tsuru's command.
"This is my decision, and I'll take full responsibility," Tsuru declared with
unwavering determination.
With no outside intervention, the current state of the Marines made it
difficult to fend off Whitebeard and his crew, let alone other threats.
Despite Whitebeard's apprehension towards Mariejois' support and the
Marines' concerns about the Red Hair Pirates, the power of the World
Government struggled to match the revolutionary army and the
formidable Red Hair Pirates.
Tsuru's words left the other Marines with nothing to rebut.
While Tsuru's rank was only Vice Admiral, akin to Garp, he was a
respected figure within the older generation of the Marines, holding sway
even over the current Admirals.
With Garp inactive and Sengoku's fate uncertain, Tsuru wielded
significant authority.
"It seems this war has come to an end," Marco sighed in relief as the cyan
flame wings in his hands dissipated, his arms returning to normal.
Both sides felt the tension ease, hoping for a safe evacuation, particularly
for Ace.
However, the wounded pirates could only be salvaged to the best of their
abilities.
"Is it finally over?" Nami asked aboard the Moby Dick, breathing a sigh of
relief.
This level of warfare was beyond the capacity of small-time pirates like
them.
To be blunt, Nami's abilities were insufficient to take on the multitude of
soldiers and pirates on the battlefield, so she remained aboard the Moby
Dick.
With Usopp on guard, she felt assured that nothing would go wrong.
However, her peace was short-lived.
Boom!
An explosion rocked the area around the Moby Dick.
"What? What's happening now?" Nami exclaimed, panic evident in her
expression.
Usopp's attention quickly shifted towards the distant sea behind them.
In the distance, emerging from the fog, were three imposing warships.
Standing proudly at the helm of the central warship was a majestic,
towering old man.
Though older in appearance than Rayleigh, his muscular physique defied
his age.
Beside him stood a tall figure who was shrouded in a massive white cloak
and wearing a mask.
"It's that troublemaker again, Sengoku, Garp, Tsuru," the old man's
laughter echoed from the approaching warship, reaching the ears of those
at Marineford.
"Here comes trouble," Whitebeard muttered, unleashing a shockwave that
forced a group of Marines to retreat. His expression grew solemn as he
observed the approaching warship.
"This voice... could it be?" Rayleigh's demeanour shifted slightly, hinting
at a realization of who was approaching.
"Brother Kong!" Garp exclaimed sharply, recognizing the familiar voice.
Kong, the former Marine Fleet Admiral, is now the Commander-in-Chief
of the World Government.
It seemed that Mariejois, the seat of the World Government, had received
word from Marineford.
After all, this was a war being broadcast worldwide, and Mariejois and its
Western Army were at a disadvantage.
The arrival of Kong brought cheers from the Marines at Marineford, even
eliciting a sigh of relief from Tsuru.
She could see that the figure standing beside Kong was likely a high-
ranking member of the Cipher Pol Organization, sent to support
Marineford. The probability of them being an Admiral-level powerhouse
was high.
With Kong and this unknown figure joining forces, there was a real
chance they could halt the Whitebeard Pirates' retreat.
It was evident that, at this moment, the Marines' top fighters were only
slightly inferior to those of the Whitebeard Pirates.
"Pirates, have you underestimated us?"
Kong's laughter echoed as his body vanished from the warship.
In the blink of an eye, several white sonic booms appeared in the sky,
heralding Kong's instantaneous appearance before Whitebeard.
His muscular frame filled the air, invisible Haki enveloping his fists as he
delivered a powerful punch straight to Whitebeard's face.
Boom!
The clash between Kong's fist and Whitebeard's vibrating blade sent
shockwaves rippling across the port.
Fortunately, Whitebeard had positioned himself at the forefront of the
evacuation route, minimizing the risk of collateral damage to his own
crew.
However, Whitebeard staggered slightly from the impact, while Kong
remained steadfast as a rainbow.
Kong's strength wasn't necessarily greater than Garp's despite his
advanced age and declining abilities.
Yet, Whitebeard's current condition was dire.
Since stepping onto the battlefield, he had been pushing his broken and
ailing body to its limits.
His fight had taken its toll, leaving him weakened and struggling to keep
up.
Marco, intimately familiar with Whitebeard's condition, felt a surge of
anxiety, knowing his captain was nearing his limits.
Regrettably, Marco couldn't intervene at that moment.
Meanwhile, Zoro, his body surging with turbulent ghostly energy,
unleashed his Nine Sword Style technique, aiming nine slashes at Luffy in
an instant.
But in an empty spot, a figure clad in a white cloak and mask suddenly
appeared.
With a swift stab, Zoro's attack tore through the cloak, clanging against
the man's armoured body.
Despite the forceful strike, the thick Armament Haki and resilient armour
absorbed most of the impact, preventing immediate injury.
"Marines? Since when did they resort to such underhanded tactics?" Zoro
questioned calmly, his grip tightening on his renowned blade.
"Attempting to ambush our captain?"
"It's a member of the Cipher Pol Organization," he added, recognizing the
opponent's affiliation.
Rayleigh, with his extensive experience dealing with the World
Government, immediately recognized the man's identity.
However, he found it puzzling.
Under normal circumstances, members of the Cipher Pol Organization
were rarely dispatched, as they served as a crucial force in safeguarding
Mariejois.
Moreover, the man before him appeared to be of Admiral-level strength,
indicating he was among the top operatives of the CPO.
Typically, if they were to intervene, it would likely be to apprehend Fire
Fist Ace, not target Luffy specifically.
This focused attention on Luffy and raised questions for Rayleigh.
"Why exactly? Is there something about Luffy that concerns the Five
Elders?" he pondered.
Rayleigh suspected it might be due to the Straw Hat Pirates' formidable
strength, which instilled deep fear in the Five Elders, prompting them to
target Luffy.
However, Rayleigh's keen intuition suggested there might be more to it.
Clang!
Zoro swung his sword fiercely, prompting Rayleigh to rush forward,
blade drawn.
Seeing the failed assassination attempt, the masked CPO operative wisely
retreated, disappearing before Zoro's eyes and reappearing by Kong's side
like a shadow.
Meanwhile, as Whitebeard faced off against the Marines led by Sora, the
attention of everyone present was drawn towards the rear of the Naval
Headquarters.
"What's that?" exclaimed some of the Marine soldiers.
A colossal shadow loomed over the entirety of the Naval Headquarters—
an unimaginable giant.
Even Luffy couldn't help but marvel at the sheer size of the figure,
dwarfing even the towering structures of the headquarters.
Compared to the Oars they encountered at Thriller Bark, this giant,
named Sanjuan Wolf, was on a whole other scale.
Standing at a staggering 150 meters tall, he made even the largest
members of the Whitebeard Pirates seem minuscule in comparison.
"It's Sanjuan Wolf," a Marine Vice Admiral recognized the colossal figure.
Once notorious pirates, these individuals had committed crimes so
heinous that they were consigned to Eternal Hell, the sixth floor of the
Impel Down prison, destined to be erased from history by the World
Government.
"And there's Catarina Devon, Vasco Shot, and Avaro Pizarro," Kong
remarked grimly. Each of them was a notorious pirate imprisoned for life
in Impel Down.
Their sudden appearance raised eyebrows.
"Why are criminals from the sixth level of Impel Down here?" Kong's
expression soured at the sight of these escapees, some of whom he had
personally apprehended.
But the appearance of these criminals wasn't the most concerning aspect.
Their presence signalled the breach of Impel Down's supposedly
impenetrable defences.
How many Level 6 prisoners had escaped?
Notably absent were the most formidable of the Level 6 pirates, those on
par with the Four Emperors Admirals.
"It's Blackbeard," a familiar voice reverberated among the Marines.
Sengoku, battered and bloody, approached, his expression grim.
Upon his arrival at Marineford, he had received reports of Blackbeard's
audacious assault on a warship and his subsequent march towards Impel
Down.
The initial belief had been that Impel Down, with Magellan and Shiryu
guarding it, was impregnable to Blackbeard's onslaught.
Now, it was evident that the situation was dire.
"As expected of The Resourceful General Sengoku, I really can't hide
anything from you, old thief, hahaha," Blackbeard's booming laughter
echoed from atop the colossal San Juan Wolf battleship.
With an entourage in tow, Blackbeard descended from the ship's head.
"Teach," Whitebeard muttered, a silver-white glint flickering in his eyes.
His grip tightened around his long sword, his aura transcending its limits,
causing Kong to tremble nearby.
"Teach," Ace growled, eyeing Blackbeard with determination yet
refraining from rash action.
His time in prison had tempered his impulsiveness, and he understood
the gravity of the situation.
"Let's deal with Whitebeard together, Admiral Sengoku, old thief,
hahaha," Blackbeard proclaimed, locking eyes with Sengoku.
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67. I Come To End This War
"Shiryu."
Sengoku glanced behind Blackbeard, spotting the towering figure
clutching a renowned sword.
In that instant, it dawned on him why Blackbeard, with his might, could
navigate the treacherous depths of the sea prison guarded by Magellan.
If Shiryu, who possessed immense power, was in cahoots with them from
the inside, along with the antidote brewed within Imper Prison, it could
indeed breach Magellan's defences.
But what puzzled Sengoku was why Shiryu had sided with Blackbeard.
After all, as the warden of Imper Prison, Shiryu had minimal interaction
with the outside world, practically living within its confines permanently.
What had Blackbeard promised him to forsake everything and join his
crew?
"Hey, Admiral Sengoku, your gaze could pierce through steel."
Shiryu drawled, puffing on a cigar, regarding Sengoku with a nonchalant
air.
"Hey, Sengoku, don't shoot us those looks, aren't we comrades?"
Blackbeard chuckled.
"Comrades?"
The Marine couldn't help but laugh incredulously. They had stormed
Imper Prison, freed its inmates, and now Blackbeard had the audacity to
call them allies?
A golden aura began emanating from Sengoku's body.
Kong and Garp clenched their fists, their presence crackling like a
brewing storm.
If it had not been for Whitebeard and his crew's presence, they might
have attacked Blackbeard right then and there.
"Hey, hey, I'm a Shichibukai, Sengoku."
Seeing the menacing glares from both sides, Blackbeard panicked
momentarily, hastily waving his hands to explain.
"Furthermore, your current task is to deal with Whitebeard and his crew,
isn't it? If you don't execute Ace or let him escape, you'll have a lot of
explaining to do to the whole world."
"My aim is also Whitebeard. Isn't it more urgent to handle him than to
deal with me? Haha, priorities, my friends."
Truth be told, Blackbeard was feeling the pressure, too.
Under normal circumstances, his plan had factored in the strength of
both sides.
He should have emerged now to seize the opportunity and clean up the
aftermath.
But reality proved different from his expectations.
The Whitebeard Pirates had unexpectedly prevailed.
Not only had they rescued Ace, but their combat prowess remained
undiminished.
Whitebeard, Rayleigh, these seasoned warriors posed formidable
challenges.
Meanwhile, the Marines were in disarray without Akainu, and even
Kizaru and Aokiji seemed uneasy.
This unforeseen turn had thrown Blackbeard off guard.
Nevertheless, as a cunning opportunist, he managed to spin his words
convincingly.
In just a few sentences, he had Sengoku contemplating.
Because, begrudgingly, what he said held truth.
Sengoku was all too aware of Blackbeard's current transgressions.
Yet, the breach of Impel Prison had already occurred, and there was no
turning back.
Moreover, the impending public execution of Fire Fist Ace loomed large.
Though the live broadcast had been cut off, if Ace were to escape, it
would be a severe blow to the Marines' reputation.
So, as Blackbeard had pointed out, dealing with Whitebeard took
precedence.
Considering Blackbeard's formidable force, cooperation seemed
inevitable.
The tension hung thick in the air on the battlefield, and many things
remained unresolved for the Marines, especially for Garp, who couldn't
quite accept the situation. Truth be told, Sengoku wasn't thrilled about
cooperating with Blackbeard either.
At this critical juncture, the atmosphere seemed to stagnate.
There were numerous factors Sengoku had to weigh, and mere
cooperation didn't seem to cut it.
Suddenly, a formidable CP0 agent held a phone bug, speaking in hushed
tones. Minutes later, he leaned in to convey something to Sora.
"I understand. Your name is Blackbeard, correct?" Sora stepped forward,
his imposing figure commanding attention. "This isn't cooperation,
Blackbeard. As a Shichibukai, you're obligated to heed the compulsory
call and join the battle against the Whitebeard Pirates."
Sora's declaration furrowed the brows of Sengoku, Garp, and Tsuru, but
they refrained from comment. They knew this was an order from higher-
ups, one they couldn't dispute.
"It's just empty rhetoric, typical of those corrupt superiors," Doflamingo
sneered. "My part in this is done." With that, Hawkeye turned away from
the fray, his interest waning.
"This is what I've been waiting for, Teach," Whitebeard's voice rang out,
icy and resolute. His gaze, sharp as ever, pierced through the chaos, and
his aura surged to its zenith, reminiscent of his prime.
"Dad's truly riled up," Jozu murmured, awed by Whitebeard's
overwhelming presence.
The intense aura emanating from Whitebeard's body was akin to steam, a
manifestation of his power pushed to its limits—a sight even Kizaru
found daunting.
"It's almost time, Pineapple Head," Luffy said, mustering his strength.
With a deep breath, he stood tall once more, his companions rallying
around him.
As Luffy joined Whitebeard on the frontlines, Usopp appeared, his resolve
unwavering. "Kid, get Ace out of here. You've done enough," Whitebeard
urged Luffy, concern etched in his voice.
"You got it. Your pain is written all over your face. Let's step back," Luffy
replied calmly, pressing his straw hat with a reassuring smile.
"Hmph, you're a stubborn brat. This little injury won't stop me. You've
got a lot to learn," Whitebeard chuckled, undeterred.
The tension on the battlefield reached a palpable peak, and neither side
was willing to make the first move. They all knew that once the fighting
resumed, there would be no turning back—a desperate clash awaited
them all.
As tension reached its peak between the two opposing sides, uncertainty
hung heavy in the air.
Just as everyone's nerves were stretched taut, a warship surged forward,
breaking through the standoff between the Whitebeard Pirates' ships and
the Marine vessels.
With a deafening crash, the ship careened uncontrollably, slamming into
the protective wall and engulfing the area in a cloud of dust and debris.
"Hey, Buggy, can't you steer this thing properly? What's with the reckless
driving?" A commanding voice cut through the chaos.
"Don't blame me for this! The old man hit the throttle too hard. How am I
supposed to control this beast at full speed? Just getting us to the island
in one piece is a miracle!" Buggy's panicked voice echoed amidst the
commotion.
"Do you want to get us all killed, you red-nosed brat?" Another voice,
seasoned and grizzled, snapped.
The familiar tone caught the attention of those who had lived through
the bygone era—this voice was unmistakable.
"Where are we headed, Mr. 1?" Another voice, dripping with malice,
interjected.
Zoro and Sanji exchanged knowing glances. They recognized the voice—
it belonged to the Crocodile of Alabasta.
With a powerful gesture, Crocodile dispersed the smoke and dust,
revealing the figure on the warship that had caused the disturbance.
"Are you Bullet?" Rayleigh's surprise was evident as he beheld the
towering figure before him.
"It's been a while, Vice Captain Rayleigh," Bullet replied, a fierce grin
spreading across his face. He had spent years honing his skills in the
Great Prison and now sought a worthy opponent in Rayleigh.
"Whitebeard," Crocodile's gaze lingered on the legendary pirate, a mix of
emotions swirling in his eyes.
"Rayleigh, it's been too long," Crocodile chimed in, his tone tinged with
nostalgia.
Amongst the powerful figures, a trembling Buggy spotted Rayleigh and
rushed over, seeking solace in the presence of his former crewmate.
"Long time no see, Buggy," Luffy greeted with a laugh.
"It's you, Straw Hat!" Buggy exclaimed, grabbing Luffy by the collar, a
mix of anger and relief evident in his expression.
"All because of that rubber bastard! If it weren't for him, I wouldn't have
ended up in that hellhole of Impel Down!" Buggy seethed, his eyes
locking onto Zoro and Sanji with disdain.
Zoro and Sanji merely sneered in response, their disgust evident.
"Surprisingly, fate has brought us together again. One day, I'll wipe those
smug looks off your faces," Buggy spat venomously.
"You too. I thought you were long gone," Whitebeard remarked with
disdain, addressing the old man before him. "Byrnndi World."
Byrnndi World, the infamous World Destroyer who had garnered fear
from the World Government, was presumed dead after a joint effort
between Marines and pirates. His sudden appearance now hinted at a
different fate—a silent imprisonment within Impel Down.
"Demon Heir, Douglas Bullet."
"Former Shichibukai, Crocodile."
Marine's elite Vice Admirals recoiled in shock at the revelation of these
legendary figures joining the fray.
The situation seemed increasingly dire. Among them, Crocodile was the
least of their worries—these two were true legends.
Byrnndi World, a formidable pirate who had rivalled the likes of
Whitebeard and Rayleigh, and Douglas Bullet, hailed as the successor to
the legendary pirate Gol D Roger, were forces to be reckoned with.
These were not the lackeys Blackbeard had previously enlisted; they were
on a completely different level, capable of easily dispatching Blackbeard's
sixth-floor lackeys.
"Looks like you've lucked out, facing a big showdown right after your
prison break," Byrnndi World jeered, his toothy grin unsettling.
"As annoying as you are, Whitebeard, you're a sight for sore eyes
compared to the lapdogs of the World Government," Byrnndi World
continued, his laughter echoing.
"Shut your trap, Byrnndi World. One more word, and I'll toss you into the
sea," Whitebeard growled, his disgust evident.
"I'm more interested in taking down the Marines than exchanging banter
with Vice Captain Rayleigh," Bullet chimed in, his grin widening.
Rayleigh couldn't help but be taken aback by Bullet's immense aura. The
once-genius boy had transformed into a force to be reckoned with,
surpassing even Rayleigh himself.
"Sengoku, you scoundrel," Sengoku seethed with rage, itching to tear
Blackbeard apart.
Opening the gates of Impel Down had unleashed not just a few lackeys
but true monsters like Douglas Bullet and Byrnndi World, causing a
headache for everyone involved.
Blackbeard chuckled softly, but deep down, he knew things had spiralled
out of control.
The unexpected rescue of Ace by the Whitebeard Pirates and the arrival
of Bullet further complicated matters.
Marines found themselves at a significant disadvantage, even with
Blackbeard's crew and their blessings.
As a red ship raced towards Marineford, bearing the emblem of two
crossed knives on a skull with three scars over its left eye—the insignia of
the Red-Haired Shanks pirate crew—Sengoku knew the battle was lost.
The Red Force, though smaller than the ships of the Whitebeard Pirates,
commanded immense respect and power.
Sengoku closed his eyes, resigned to the inevitable defeat of the Marine.
Moments later, the ship docked, and a one-armed man with fiery red hair
stepped onto the shores of Marineford.
"I've come to put an end to this war," Shanks declared solemnly.
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68. Blackbeard, The End
Boom.
The immense Conqueror's Haki swept across Marineford like a tempest,
its terrifying force capable of altering the very fabric of reality. This was
the Haki of the Red-Haired Shanks, a man who could command the seas
even with a disabled body.
"Shanks?" Bullet's expression shifted, surprise flickering across his face
before he settled into a ferocious grin. "Decades have passed, and that
little brat has grown into quite the figure," he remarked, his excitement
palpable.
Though imprisoned in Impel Down's sixth level for so long, Bullet had no
doubt heard of the Four Emperors. Shanks's courage alone was proof
enough of his status as a formidable force in the seas.
"End the war? Don't make me laugh, red-haired brat," Sora scoffed, his
thick arms crossed defiantly. "Where do you get off undermining the
Marines and the World Government?"
"Your authority means nothing to me," Shanks retorted sharply, his gaze
piercing. Having recently faced off against Kaido, another Emperor, and
emerged victorious, Shanks's resolve was as fierce as ever.
Even Kong, the commander-in-chief, couldn't help but be taken aback by
Shanks's boldness.
"The war must cease," Shanks declared solemnly, his gaze sweeping over
the battlefield strewn with casualties. "Continuing will only lead to
further tragedy for both sides. Look around you—comrades and partners
lie dying. Is this the outcome you seek?"
"Cease the fighting. The Whitebeard Pirates will tend to their wounded
and return to the New World. Marine, take this opportunity to save those
soldiers who still draw breath."
Shanks's words hung heavy in the air, silencing both sides. Even
Whitebeard, known for his stubbornness, couldn't refute the logic in
Shanks's plea.
His fondness for Ace, his son and potential successor, had driven him to
bring the Whitebeard Pirates to Marineford, but he refused to sacrifice
his crew needlessly.
Similarly, Sengoku, though not known for his hawkishness, recognized
the futility of continuing the battle. Marine's defeat was all but assured in
the face of such monstrous adversaries.
The Straw Hat Pirates alone had proven formidable enough to challenge
the Admirals, and now they stood alongside Whitebeard, Rayleigh,
Bullet, and World—the most terrifying beings to ever set foot upon the
seas.
And now, the Red-Haired Pirates step onto the stage.
Despite Shanks's seemingly neutral stance, it's crucial to remember his
ties to Fire Fist Ace, the son of his benefactor, Gol D. Roger. If it came to
it, the Red-Haired Pirates would undoubtedly align with Whitebeard.
With two Four Emperors crews, a formidable new-era pirate group, and
legendary escapees from Impel Down, the odds were overwhelmingly
against Marine. Sengoku felt a sense of desperation, knowing that even
with Marine's full strength, they couldn't compete against such
formidable opponents.
"I promise, Shanks," Sengoku declared loudly, accepting the inevitable
defeat.
His words stunned the other Marines. They understood that by
conceding, Sengoku was essentially bowing to the pirates, a move that
wouldn't sit well with the World Government.
"I'll take full responsibility for this defeat," Sengoku added firmly,
silencing any dissent.
Whitebeard concurred, acknowledging that their objectives had been met
and further bloodshed was unnecessary.
Shanks breathed a sigh of relief, relieved that Whitebeard was willing to
stand down. He had feared the stubbornness of the old pirate might
prolong the conflict unnecessarily.
However, Whitebeard had one condition.
Sengoku tensed, fearing Whitebeard's next words might reignite the
conflict. But Whitebeard's demand was clear—he wanted to confront
Blackbeard himself.
Whitebeard's gaze bore into Blackbeard with a chilling intensity, his
anger palpable.
As Blackbeard attempted to assert his alliance with the World
Government, Whitebeard's wrath remained unabated.
Blackbeard stepped back as Sengoku delivered the news—he was stripped
of his Shichibukai status and all associated privileges. Marine's decision
was clear, especially after Blackbeard's blatant disregard for authority
and his release of dangerous criminals.
Sengoku, feeling the weight of his actions, was ready to accept the
consequences. He had nothing to lose, knowing he would soon retire
from his position as Marine Fleet Admiral.
Meanwhile, Whitebeard confronted Blackbeard, his fury palpable. He
reminded Blackbeard of the unforgivable sin of killing comrades.
Blackbeard, facing Whitebeard's wrath, tried to appeal to their familial
bond. But Whitebeard's anger was uncontainable.
As Whitebeard launched an attack, Blackbeard revealed his Dark Fruit
ability, nullifying Whitebeard's powers and striking back with his own
strength.
Witnessing Blackbeard's defiance, the onlookers were stunned. Even
Whitebeard's closest allies couldn't believe what they were seeing.
But Luffy, ever observant, remained calm, recognizing the true extent of
Whitebeard's strength.
As the battle unfolded, it became clear that Whitebeard was not to be
underestimated, despite Blackbeard's attempts to subdue him.
In the end, Luffy acknowledged Whitebeard's prowess, recognizing him as
a true monster of strength.
As the Blackbeard Pirates rushed to aid their captain, Marco and Ace
swiftly intervened, forming a formidable barrier of flames that repelled
their attacks. With their cyan and buff flames burning brightly, they
stood defiantly in front of Whitebeard, ready to protect him at all costs.
Meanwhile, Shiryu of the Rain attempted to draw his sword, only to be
confronted by Vista, whose blades radiated with an intimidating aura.
Behind Vista stood a group of Marine elites, their presence casting a
shadow over the Blackbeard Pirates.
The Blackbeard Pirates suddenly realized their precarious situation.
Without their status as Marine allies, they were nothing more than
escaped criminals, trespassing in the heart of Marine territory with its full
might ready to strike.
Caught between the wrath of Whitebeard and the overwhelming force of
Marine, the Blackbeard Pirates found themselves in a dire predicament.
Their attempts to aid their captain had only exacerbated their perilous
situation, as they now faced the combined might of two formidable
adversaries: the enraged Whitebeard and the relentless Marines.
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69. The Battle On The Top Is
Completely Over
"Why should I believe Blackbeard's nonsense?" Shiryu thought as he
glanced at the top fighters from the Naval Headquarters, who seemed
clueless about surrounding them. Sengoku, Garp, Tsuru, Sora, Kizaru,
Aokiji, Gion—when this bunch gathered, any pirate or criminal would
feel a deep, deep despair. That's exactly how Shiryu feels right now.
He wished he could turn back time, go back to a few hours ago when he
was still in the prison of Impel and shut Blackbeard up with a knife
before things got this bad. Then, he wouldn't be in this mess.
"Shiryu, do you know the power of the Dark Fruit? It can change the
world, take us to the top," Blackbeard said confidently. "I can extract
Devil Fruit abilities from capable individuals. Imagine the possibilities.
We can create an unstoppable army. Even the World Government
wouldn't stand a chance against us."
"What? You don't believe me? Look outside. Once we take down
Whitebeard, I'll take his strongest Shock Fruit ability from his corpse,"
Blackbeard continued, trying to persuade Shiryu to join him.
"Join us, Shiryu. We'll rule the seas," Blackbeard laughed.
Shiryu still heard Blackbeard's ambitious words echoing in his ears, but
the harsh reality hit him. In just a few hours, he had gone from being the
deputy warden of Impel's prison to a regular criminal in the sixth level of
the prison, Eternal Hell. All his privileges and recognition were gone—all
because of a decision he made a few hours ago.
"Damn you, Blackbeard," Shiryu shouted, but before he could do
anything, the Marines struck. Kizaru, Aokiji, and others appeared, ready
to subdue them. They were in Marineford, surrounded by the highest-
ranking Marine forces.
As Shiryu lay on the ground, barely conscious, he wondered, "How did
Whitebeard manage to win with this kind of power?"
Sengoku ordered the Marines to tie them up and take them back to
Impel's prison. It was a stroke of luck that Blackbeard had brought them
here. Despite being legendary pirates and Shichibukai, the group
Blackbeard brought were some of the most ruthless criminals from the
sixth level of the prison.
Soon, Marines approached with seastone handcuffs and chains to restrain
them, ensuring they wouldn't escape again. Gion and Momonga were
tasked with guarding the prisoners.
"Dealing with these criminals is a breeze compared to the monsters we're
facing," Gion remarked, relieved to have them under control.
Kizaru couldn't help but twist his mouth into a concealed, wretched
smile. Lately, he had been feeling a bit defeated. First, at Sabaody, he
was bested by the Straw Hat Boy. Now, he found himself struggling
against Blackfoot Sanji, whose bounty was less than 100 million. It made
him wonder if he was getting old and losing his strength, unable to keep
up with the younger generation.
But after effortlessly dealing with Blackbeard's crew, he felt a glimmer of
confidence return. It wasn't that he was weak; it was just that the Straw
Hat Pirates were exceptionally strong.
As the top fighters of the Marines finished off Blackbeard's crew, Sengoku
glanced at Fire Fist Ace and Phoenix Marco, who were standing nearby.
They had just teamed up to take on Blackbeard's men. Although they
were within striking distance, Sengoku refrained from making another
move.
Ace had managed to break free from the seastone handcuffs, and his
strength rivalled that of an Admiral. Killing him wouldn't be easy. Plus,
the formidable strength of the pirates made Sengoku hesitate.
"Do you want to fight, Sengoku?" Bullet, who had recently escaped from
Impel, taunted Sengoku with a crazed smile.
Sengoku frowned at Bullet. The Demon heir was arrested because of
Buster Call's actions and his own, and after years in Impel Prison, he
seemed even stronger and more menacing. Standing alongside Rayleigh
and Byrnndi World, Bullet's strength surpassed even these legendary
figures.
Despite Bullet's madness and dangerous aura, Sengoku couldn't make a
move, not with Rayleigh and Shanks by his side.
"Hey, Shanks, Vice Captain Rayleigh, want to team up?" Bullet proposed,
but both Shanks and Rayleigh declined. Bullet's transformation into a
more dangerous figure than before troubled them.
"I've grown stronger, and I'll keep getting stronger until I'm the best,"
Bullet declared loudly, his eyes fixed on the Marines as if he might attack
at any moment.
However, despite his thirst for power, Bullet wasn't foolish. Just released
from Eternal Hell, he hadn't reached his peak yet, and attacking the
Marines now would be suicide.
"It's all over," Whitebeard's voice cut through the tension as he
approached. With a firm grip, he held Blackbeard's unconscious body, his
face bloodied and battered from the fight.
"That's one resilient body. After enduring Dad's grip so many times, he's
still breathing," Marco remarked, following Whitebeard's lead as they
approached Blackbeard's swaying form.
Marco was well aware of Whitebeard's devastating strength. Despite
being grabbed by the weakest part of his neck and receiving three
powerful shocks, Blackbeard was somehow still alive. It was a testament
to the incredible durability of his body.
The first time, Blackbeard had only one breath left and felt like he was on
the brink of death. After two more attacks, he lost consciousness
completely.
"Time to go home, youngsters," Whitebeard declared, hoisting
Blackbeard's body with one hand and his long sword high into the air.
The Whitebeard Pirates raised their weapons in celebration, cheers of
victory filling the air. Despite the losses suffered in the war, they stood
strong, united in their resolve.
As Whitebeard carried Blackbeard back to the Moby Dick, passing by
Luffy and the others, Chopper whispered to Luffy, "Whitebeard is dying."
Each member of the crew had their own unique perception abilities.
Luffy had an enhanced emotional perception, Usopp had a heightened
distance perception, and Chopper, being a doctor, had a keen sense of
vitality.
Chopper could sense that Whitebeard's vitality was fading fast. Under
normal circumstances, someone with such low vitality would be on the
verge of death. Yet, Whitebeard not only survived but also managed to
hold his own against Admiral-level opponents and defeat monsters like
Blackbeard.
Luffy, too, sensed Whitebeard's pain and resilience. Despite the immense
suffering he endured, Whitebeard remained steadfast and resolute. His
willpower was awe-inspiring, transcending even the limits of his own
body.
Though Luffy couldn't fully grasp the depth of Whitebeard's emotions, he
recognized a familiar tenderness akin to what Garp showed him at times.
It was a bond that went beyond mere partnership, a willpower that
defied death itself.
"Just give him a hand, Ace," Luffy said, looking at the smiling Ace with a
mixture of emotions.
In this moment of reunion and homecoming joy, Luffy couldn't find the
right words to express himself. He knew Ace shared a special bond with
Whitebeard, and he wondered how Ace would cope with the grief of
Whitebeard's passing.
As the Whitebeard Pirates took care of the battlefield and tended to the
wounded, there was a strange understanding between the pirates and the
Marines.
"Then we'll be on our way," Shanks said, pressing his hand on the hilt of
his sword and addressing Sengoku.
Sengoku didn't object. This group of pirates had dealt a significant blow
to the Marines and the World Government. If the Marines couldn't
recover and strengthen their position, their control over the world would
diminish in the coming years. But Sengoku felt somewhat relieved after
the battle, knowing that the trial of the Five Elders would determine the
next steps.
"Before we go, I'll give Marine's Buster Call a second look," Bullet
chuckled.
"I'll make them pay for every scar they've left on me," Bullet declared, his
eyes cold and determined, clutching gravel in his hands like a vengeful
beast.
Crocodile observed the two men beside him, their madness apparent.
Sengoku watched them board Whitebeard's ship, his expression ugly with
frustration.
"These two troublemakers," Crocodile muttered.
"These two lunatics," Sengoku added, his gaze fixed on Bullet and
Byrnndi World as they departed.
These two guys are a real handful. If it weren't for the Whitebeard
Pirates, Red Hair Pirates, and Straw Hat Pirates backing them up,
Sengoku would have had to personally deal with those arrogant lunatics.
But now, all he could do was watch as they fought their way out and left
gracefully.
"The war is over. Let's focus on treating the wounded," Sengoku ordered
the surrounding Marine soldiers as he watched the Whitebeard Pirates'
ships depart.
Seeing the devastation around him—the wounded, the damaged Naval
Headquarters, the distant residential area of Marineford—Sengoku felt
weary. The war, which had taken so much effort to prepare for, was a
complete failure because of the Straw Hat Pirates. He had lost comrades
and suffered significant damage to his forces. And this was just the
immediate aftermath. The real repercussions were yet to come. In a few
days, the World Government officials, the leaders of the alliance
countries, and the media would all condemn their failure.
Sengoku himself was exhausted. The wound he received from
Whitebeard, Roronoa Zoro, and Dark King Rayleigh continued to bleed,
causing him intense pain. If not for his formidable defence in his Buddha
form, he might have been killed outright. Even so, he had lain in the
ruins for a long time before regaining his ability to move.
As he tried to clear his mind, a Marine soldier approached with a phone
bug. It wasn't the Five Elders calling for accountability but a message
from Impel Prison. Sengoku took a deep breath before answering the call.
"I'm Sengoku," he said.
"Sorry, Admiral Sengoku, but Impel Prison has been breached. Shiryu has
defected and joined Blackbeard," Magellan's voice came through the
phone bug, filled with guilt.
Sengoku assured Magellan that he knew about the situation and would
send someone to assess the damage at Impel.
He understood that berating Magellan now would serve no purpose. The
breach at Impel was a result of Naval Headquarters spreading their forces
too thin and Blackbeard exploiting the situation.
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70. The Five Elders, Luffy's Status
After some time passed,
Sengoku finished the call from Impel Down, feeling a bit relieved.
The situation at Impel Down wasn't as dire as he feared.
Blackbeard was after only the most notorious criminals on the sixth floor
to recruit them.
Not many pirates from the first five floors had been set free.
Plus, those pirates from the lower floors couldn't muster the strength to
steal a warship from the Marine garrison at Impel Down.
Most of those who escaped were Blackbeard's crew. Four of them were
from the sixth floor, and they've all been captured now.
Except for some difficulty in transporting the massive battleships, the
others can be detained with a bit of seastone.
Another concern is Byrnndi World and Douglas Bullet.
Honestly, the combined threat of these two isn't as severe as the four
already caught.
Thinking of this, Sengoku still felt troubled.
"Report this to the higher-ups," Sengoku ordered a Marine sergeant after
getting a grasp of Impel Down's situation.
Although he knew that the powerful Cipher Pol probably already briefed
the Five Elders in detail.
Yet, the Marine's stance needed to be clear.
"Sengoku."
Garp sat next to Sengoku, feeling somewhat guilty, on a pile of rubble.
If Ace hadn't been rescued, Garp's heart would've been filled with rage.
But now that Ace was saved and Luffy escaped unharmed, his sense of
familial relief was mixed with guilt for justice.
He hadn't performed exceptionally well in this war, to be honest.
His fighting spirit was dampened by Whitebeard's overwhelming
strength.
"No need to say anything, Garp. I understand, and you've done all you
could in this battle. The outcome isn't on you," Sengoku reassured his old
friend.
It wasn't just words of comfort.
Despite Garp's struggles in the first half, his decisive action in stopping
Whitebeard when things were dire saved the battle from collapsing
earlier.
The failure of this war couldn't be pinned on Garp, no matter how you
sliced it.
Underestimating the enemy's experience, underestimating the Straw Hat
Pirates' significance, and Blackbeard's assault on Impel Down were the
real reasons for the failure.
And then there was the timely arrival of Shanks.
"It would've been great if my attack had landed directly," Sengoku
pondered, staring at his palm.
In a regular battle, the last chance would've been when Luffy was unable
to move and Ace was restrained by seastone handcuffs.
If only his full-strength attack could've connected with Fire Fist Ace
directly.
There was a significant chance he could've been killed right then.
If Fire Fist Ace had died here, Marine wouldn't have suffered such a
heavy defeat.
No, it's not all despair. It's about winning in the long run.
Because their actions now are like those of the whole world, witnessing
Marine publicly executing the evil legacy of the Pirate King, Gol D.
Roger.
"But if you really think about it, it still wouldn't work," Sengoku carefully
considered.
Words that could have led to Fire Fist Ace's demise.
Considering the fighting power displayed by the Straw Hat Pirates and
the Whitebeard Pirates, plus those two old lunatics Blackbeard set free
from prison at the end, this battle could truly turn into a life-and-death
struggle.
Marines had a high chance of not emerging victorious, and the top
fighters among the Pirates might triumph overwhelmingly.
In the end, the outcome would be even more dreadful than if Marine had
executed Fire Fist Ace.
Marines would be in shambles, let alone venturing into the New World.
Its control over the first half of the Grand Line and the world would
diminish significantly.
The balance would be completely shattered.
Truly, it would mark the dawn of the era of the great pirates.
"Ultimately, we're still too feeble," Zephyr mumbled, taking a puff of his
asthma medicine.
"The powerful figures on the Pirate side emerged too swiftly, and our
Marine is already struggling. It's a crucial issue.
As a Marine recruit instructor, Zephyr was keenly aware of Marine's
shortcomings.
The elite Vice Admirals in their department were mostly in their 40s or
50s.
Kizaru was fifty-six, Akainu was fifty-two, and Aokiji was forty-nine.
These were the ages of the current Marine Admirals. To put it mildly,
they were middle-aged, if not on the brink of old age.
Not to mention the Marine pillars of their generation. Garp was in his
80s, and the rest were over 70.
Further down the ranks, Gion wasn't much younger than Aokiji.
Looking ahead, Marine had few promising prospects left.
When Zephyr was a recruit instructor, Kizaru, Akainu, and Aokiji were
barely in their twenties, already hailed as prodigies.
Genuine geniuses.
And now?
As far as Marine was concerned, there was barely one, Smoker, who
could be considered a promising recruit.
There was simply no comparison between Smoker and the three
Admirals.
And what about comparing with Pirates?
Red-Haired Shanks was only in his thirties, already one of the Four
Emperors.
Fire Fist Ace was in his twenties, nearing a legend.
Not to mention the crew of monsters known as the Straw Hat Pirates,
who were remarkably young.
Among them, the Straw Hat Boy had a record of facing Admirals head-
on.
Moreover, Sabaody had over ten supernovas this year alone, which spoke
volumes about the situation.
If no changes were made, it was estimated that in the next ten years,
when the older generation of Marines retired, Marines would be
completely overshadowed by pirates.
"This is a major issue. I've reported it to the Five Elders," Sengoku
muttered, troubled by Zephyr's words.
These matters weren't significant when the Marine believed itself to be
the strongest. However, facing a direct hit, they realized the gravity of
this problem.
"Hey, Zephyr, I heard you got beaten by the pet on Luffy's ship, and its
bounty is only fifty Baileys?" Garp teased, pinching his nostrils.
"That pet definitely isn't worth just fifty Baileys. When have you ever
seen a fifty-Bailey pirate able to go head-to-head with an Admiral?"
Zephyr retorted, looking annoyed.
"You used to be an Admiral, and yet you got taken down by a fifty-Bailey
pet instead of facing it head-on," Garp needled, rubbing salt in Zephyr's
wounds.
"Damn you, I'll get you for this!" Zephyr yelled in frustration.
"Do these guys have no shame? Honestly," Tsuru sighed, watching Zephyr
and Garp squabble not far away.
But truth be told, compared to the Marine soldiers who had lost their
way, these older Vice Admirals, though frustrated, were handling it
relatively well.
They hailed from the legendary era of pirates, where there were more
and stronger legends than today—Peak Whitebeard, Rocks, Gol D. Roger,
Golden Lion Shiki, and more.
Yet, the Marine back then was weaker than it is now. They faced failure
repeatedly, witnessing pirates dominating the seas time and again.
But through countless setbacks, they endured.
The Rocks Pirates, nearly able to conquer the world, had vanished. The
Golden Lion Shiki was captured at Impel Down and disappeared after
breaking out, crippled. Byrnndi World had narrowly escaped trouble and
might pass away in Impel Down in a few years. Gol D. Roger was
executed.
Amidst these failures, they buried that legendary old era.
"Rise up! Failure doesn't mean losing everything, and setbacks are part of
the journey. Justice—what kind of justice? Think carefully about what
burdens we carry," Tsuru rallied the distraught Marine soldiers around
him.
Her words sparked a glimmer of hope in the eyes of some nearby
soldiers.
Of course, Tsuru knew well. Soldiers with righteous hearts were easy to
motivate. The real challenge lay with the higher-ups.
Meanwhile, as Marines diligently went about their post-war tasks,
Akainu lay unconscious on a piece of rubble, forgotten as the currents
carried him away.
In the Holy Land of Mariejois,
the Five Elders looked grim. They were already aware of all the details of
the war.
"Marine is a bunch of fools!" the blond Elder roared in frustration.
It was the second time the Elders had lost their composure—the first
being when Ohara was obliterated twenty years ago, prompting them to
urgently eliminate all the scholars.
And this wasn't the first time.
Despite their usual disdain for Marines,
even publicly humiliating Marine Admiral Sengoku multiple times,
when Marines faced failure, it was the Five Elders who panicked the
most.
Marine was the strongest militant organization under the World
Government, the foremost force in upholding the Government's rule.
While the Cipher Pol had formidable players at the Admiral level, they
couldn't match Marine. After all, the CP was primarily a spy organization,
while Marine was a true military force.
This time, when Marines suffered a defeat despite having all their combat
power intact, it rattled the Five Elders seated at the pinnacle of world
power.
Even the blond Elder, usually so composed, could only express their
anger and humiliation towards Marine, hiding a hint of fear that hadn't
surfaced in years.
"The crux of this war lies with the Straw Hat Boy," analyzed a long-
bearded Elder with a grim expression. "If the Straw Hat Pirates hadn't
blocked the four Admiral-level fighters, Marine wouldn't have suffered
such a heavy defeat."
Shortly after the defeat, the CP organization delivered all the war's
information to the Five Elders.
They were fully aware of the war's details and its implications.
The issue of Impel Down's breach and the Red Hair Pirates' intervention
weren't the primary concerns.
It was the Straw Hat Pirates who held the key.
If not for them suddenly appearing with four fighters strong enough to
rival Admirals, if not for their ability to hold off Akainu long enough to
save Fire Fist Ace, the Whitebeard Pirates wouldn't have lasted against
the Imper Prison monsters, nor would they have waited for Red-Haired
Shanks' support.
The catalyst for all this was the Straw Hat Boy.
"Is that fruit truly so powerful?" the Elder holding the demon sword
grimaced.
"Don't forget, it's a fruit named after a god, a genuine miracle fruit,"
added the bald-moustached Elder.
"Hito Hito no Mi: Nika—it's not to be underestimated. The Straw Hat Boy
has fully matured, and dealing with him is as challenging as facing one of
the Four Emperors," sighed the Elder in the black cap. "What I fear most
now is that the straw hat kid is that man."
"Joy Boy."
At the mention of this name, a taboo seemed to be invoked, and the
breathing of all Five Elders present grew heavy instantly, veins bulging
on their foreheads and arms.
Their emotions were complex—a mix of fear and anger.
It was astonishing that in this world, something existed that could utterly
unnerve the Five Elders, who held the highest power.
"Should we report this to Lord Imu?" suggested one of the Elders.
"No, we now have a grasp of the Straw Hat Pirates' full combat power,
equivalent to that of a Four Emperors-level pirate group. There's no rush
to report to Lord Imu. Let's keep it within our control for now," retorted
another Elder.
Even when discussing this matter, their faces showed reverence and, of
course, even more fear toward Lord Imu.
They were hesitant to disturb Lord Imu, even with such significant news.
"But if necessary, we mustn't hesitate to ask Lord Imu to eradicate the
Straw Hat Crew."
The Five Elders in black caps weighed the matter carefully.
"Since we don't want to trouble Lord Imu, then we must consider the next
issue of maintaining sea balance," the blond Elder said gravely.
Their previous objective was to publicly execute the Fire Fist, the
bloodline of Gol D. Roger, and swiftly defeat Whitebeard, one of the Four
Emperors, at Marineford.
This plan aimed to significantly deter pirate strength and allow Marine to
take proactive measures in clearing out pirates in the following
operations.
However, the plan had utterly failed.
In this global broadcast, Marines and the World Government had become
laughingstocks, and their prestige diminished.
It could be foreseen that their control over the seas would decline for
some time.
Due to the Marine's humiliation, many might be inclined to take to the
seas and join the ranks of pirates.
Moreover, this battle revealed that Marines were not as formidable as
believed. Its current power was insufficient.
"Whether facing the surge of new pirates or the formidable Straw Hat
Crew, we must bolster our forces," the bald-headed Elder stated calmly.
"Do any of you have suggestions?" asked the Elder in the black cap.
"Request military funding from each allied country for Marine expansion
and conduct widespread conscription, prioritizing strength," one
proposed.
"With many vacancies among the Warlords, it's time to appoint new
ones," suggested another.
"Allocate more resources to Vegapunk to expedite Seraphim research and
development. We don't have time to waste," added a third.
Suggestions were offered one after another, each deemed feasible, with
some already in motion.
This was the essence of the World Government—they controlled most of
the world's resources, talents, technology, and funds. Once they
committed to a task, results followed swiftly.
"Also, we must address the issue of the Straw Hat Boys' bounties and
classify the Straw Hat Pirates' danger level," the blond Elder interjected.
To be honest, discussing a pirate's bounty on the Five Elders' table was a
significant honour for pirates.
"Do they have a bounty? Kaido's is the highest besides Whitebeard's. Set
the Straw Hat's bounty slightly higher than Kaido's to stir up the New
World," proposed the long-bearded Elder.
"As for their status, pirates enjoy their infamous titles, don't they? Let
Morgans spread the word and sow chaos in the New World because of
the Straw Hat Boy," he continued grimly.
Originally meant to attract bounty hunters, high bounties had limited
effectiveness against pirates whose bounties exceeded one billion.
Thus, the bounties offered for the Four Emperors had become tools for
the World Government, often easy to wield.
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71. Whitebeard's Death, Farewell
Sabaody Archipelago.
This place is off-limits for Marines right now.
Most of the Whitebeard Pirates' ships are currently parked around the
Sabaody Archipelago.
They can't sail to the New World via the Red Line.
To get back to the New World, they have to coat their ship and then pass
through Fish-Man Island.
The Red Hair Pirates are also here.
Half a day has passed since the end of the Marineford war.
Coating ships is quick. With many coaters among the Whitebeard Pirates,
progress is fast.
Though the Whitebeard Pirates, Red Hair Pirates, and Straw Hat Pirates
are all here, they're formidable.
But it's best to return to the New World ASAP.
After all, the Marines and the World Government won't go easy. If things
get dire, both sides will suffer.
However, despite being together, the Whitebeard Pirates don't show any
signs of victory. Instead, they're filled with sadness.
On the Moby Dick, in Whitebeard's room.
Whitebeard lies in bed, hooked up to an IV.
Chopper examines Whitebeard with a stethoscope while Marco applies
healing flames.
"No, his body's failing," Chopper says, removing his medical gear, looking
grim.
"Heart disease, numerous hidden injuries, and old age have pushed him
to his limit," Chopper adds, shocked by his findings.
Only now, after examining Whitebeard thoroughly, does Chopper realize
how dire his condition is.
It's not just from recent battles; his body was already struggling before.
It's like a leaky barrel filled with holes, barely holding together.
Yet, even with such a fragile body, he astounded everyone with his
willpower.
"If there hadn't been this war, maybe he'd have lasted another year and a
half," Chopper sighs.
But now, his body's past recovery.
"We have to save him," Marco insists, knowing full well the severity of
Whitebeard's condition.
Before the war, he knew this might be Whitebeard's final battle.
But facing it now, Marco can't accept it.
He was the first one Whitebeard invited, practically raised by him.
"Dad," Diamond Jozu and Flower Sword Vista turn away, tears streaming
down their faces.
"Sorry, Dad," they whisper.
Ace was already kneeling in front of the bed, banging his head on the
floor hard.
"What? Why are you crying? You silly boys," Whitebeard sat on the bed,
his voice still strong, and he chuckled.
After laughing, his eyes softened as if they held the whole sea, and he
spoke slowly, reminiscing, "From the start of my pirate journey, I was
different. I didn't want treasures, women, or food. I wanted a family."
"The captain of my first crew once asked me, 'Hey, Newgate, what do you
desire?'"
"My answer was simple: family."
"I craved a family that I could protect and be protected by, one that
warmed each other's hearts."
"So, Marco, Jozu, Vista... and Ace, before I knew it, I had a big family, a
lot of family."
With a sigh, Whitebeard looked at his crew leaders and the surrounding
members with gentle, fatherly eyes.
"I'll ask you one last thing. As a father, am I still worthy?"
Whitebeard asked softly.
At that moment, tears welled up in the eyes of all the Whitebeard Pirates.
Their voices, filled with emotion, echoed through the air.
"Of course," they replied.
"Dad," Ace's voice boomed, resonating even with Luffy, who felt the sea
of emotions surrounding them, especially the fatherly love for
Whitebeard lying in the hospital bed.
"Why do you call him Dad?" someone asked.
"Because he sees us as his sons," another replied.
Memories flooded their hearts, igniting a suffocating sadness.
But Whitebeard, lying there, smiled contentedly as if receiving the
greatest validation in life.
"Chin up, Ace," Whitebeard said reassuringly. "I know my condition, and
it's not your fault."
"Life has many beginnings but only one end. Everyone who sets foot on
the sea faces this reality. There's no need for blame," he continued.
"After I'm gone, Marco will take over as captain of the Whitebeard
Pirates."
He didn't pass the captaincy directly to Ace, despite him being the chosen
successor, understanding that Ace's current strength and the lives of his
comrades weighed heavy.
"Father, what are you saying?" Ace protested.
"You'll never die, Father," someone else insisted.
"Marco, as the ship's doctor, do something!" voices pleaded.
But Marco, fists clenched, head bowed, remained silent.
"Forgive us, foolish sons," Whitebeard said, closing his eyes, his voice
heavy with satisfaction and age.
"I've gained everything from you. It's time to rest. It's been a long
journey."
In Whitebeard's ears, the shouts of his crew faded. He saw the figures of
his sons boarding the ship, felt the Moby Dick under the sun, and heard
the gentle waves.
"What a beautiful sail. Farewell, my sons," a faint voice whispered.
In the cabin, a sob broke out. Even the toughest of pirates couldn't hold
back tears.
And thus, the legend of Whitebeard came to an end.
Today, I lost my father.
Emperor Whitebeard, one of the Four Emperors, has passed away.
He died surrounded by his family, which was his lifelong pursuit.
Luffy's bond with Whitebeard isn't very strong yet, so he can't bring
himself to cry.
Instead, he silently watches Whitebeard's peaceful passing, feeling a
strange and profound shock.
As a man of the sea, Whitebeard lived and died at sea.
Seeing the lifeless body of this legendary pirate, Luffy couldn't shake off a
sense of heaviness and confusion.
Pushing away the grieving members of the Whitebeard Pirates, Luffy
walks to the edge of the Moby Dick's deck, leans against the railing, and
gazes blankly at the sky.
"What's troubling you, Luffy?" Rayleigh's voice breaks through Luffy's
thoughts.
Rayleigh, with his gentle smile and wise eyes, understands Luffy's
turmoil.
Despite still possessing strength equal to an Admiral, Rayleigh, at
seventy-six, keenly feels the passing of old friends, evoking a bittersweet
sadness.
"There's something bothering me about Whitebeard's death," Luffy
confesses, his gaze fixed on the sky.
Rayleigh nods knowingly, acknowledging Whitebeard's unique departure.
"Newgate passed away with a smile," Rayleigh says, a hint of sadness in
his eyes. "He was a pirate unlike any other, driven by the pursuit of
family."
Reflecting on Whitebeard's life, Rayleigh finds beauty in its simplicity – a
journey marked by family, beginning and ending amidst loved ones.
Luffy, however, finds Whitebeard's peaceful demise too ordinary for such
a legendary figure.
"Bland?" Rayleigh counters gently. "What drives you to the sea, Luffy?"
"For One Piece, for my dream of becoming the Pirate King," Luffy replies,
clutching his straw hat with determination.
"One Piece? A dream of freedom and adventure," Rayleigh muses. "But
Newgate's dream was family."
Rayleigh contrasts the pursuit of dreams between Whitebeard and Luffy,
questioning if peaceful endings truly reflect legendary lives.
As Rayleigh's words sink in, Luffy realizes the depth of their connection.
Though their journeys and endings differ, they share a common spirit – a
quest for freedom and fulfilment.
Despite his initial distaste for Whitebeard's peaceful passing, Luffy begins
to understand the essence of their shared pursuit.
Their bond transcends mere friendship; it's a kinship forged by the sea
and the pursuit of dreams.
And as Luffy's voyage continues, he knows he'll encounter similar trials
and revelations, shaping him into a legend in his own right.
"Really, when is the time to be truly free?" Rayleigh's smile lingered as he
patted Luffy's shoulder, then left, holding his jug, a hint of loneliness
trailing behind.
Luffy pondered Rayleigh's words as he gazed at his straw hat. After a
moment, a big grin spread across his face as he placed the hat firmly on
his head.
"Well, as long as I can sail freely, everything will be fine," Luffy declared,
embodying his carefree nature.
He didn't dwell on the complexities of freedom or the essence of dreams.
For him, sailing happily was the answer, and he believed that one day,
everything he sought would naturally come to him.
"It's better to have a joyful celebration than to overthink these things,"
Luffy thought, though now was not the time for festivities.
"Goodbye, Whitebeard," Luffy murmured, a hint of sadness in his eyes.
Though he didn't shed tears, he felt the loss of his heroic uncle deeply.
During their time together, Luffy had come to see Whitebeard as a friend
despite his gruff exterior.
This wasn't the first time Luffy experienced the pain of losing a friend,
though it wasn't as searing as the loss of Sabo.
"Ace must be hurting," Luffy thought, his heart heavy with concern.
A day later, at the Port of Sabaody Archipelago, the Whitebeard Pirates'
ships were being urgently coated for their return to the New World.
With sadness in his eyes, Ace bid farewell to Luffy, promising to bury
their father's body in his hometown and bring Teach to justice.
"If you ever need help, just ask," Ace assured Luffy, acknowledging his
growth and expressing his determination to carry on Whitebeard's legacy.
Luffy looked at Ace with concern, but Ace reassured him of his strength
and resolve.
"Farewell, Ace's little brother," Marco called out, inviting the Straw Hat
Pirates to visit them in the New World.
Luffy responded with equal fervour, his words echoing across the waters.
As the Whitebeard Pirates' fleet disappeared beneath the waves, Zoro
expressed regret at not being able to spar with Vista while Sanji lit a
cigarette, empathizing with their comrades' grief.
Nami and Robin reflected on the bonds forged through personal
experience, acknowledging the depth of the Whitebeard Pirates'
relationships.
Before departing, Shanks' voice rang out, surprising Luffy and reminding
him of the connections that spanned the seas.
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72. The Promise, Shanks And
Luffy
Since the Marineford War, Luffy has remained aboard the Moby Dick,
partly due to Whitebeard's passing and partly because he's unsure how to
face Shanks.
Their agreement was to meet again in the New World, on the pirate
route, not here in the first half of the Grand Line because of Ace.
But as they part ways, Shanks approaches.
"Luffy," Shanks' voice breaks through the tension, and Luffy's body
trembles slightly as he turns around, tears welling in his eyes.
Shanks chuckles at Luffy's tears, remarking on how he still cries like a
child.
"I'm not a crybaby," Luffy protests, wiping his tears away.
"Do you remember our promise?" Shanks asks, his smile calm.
"Of course, I'll never forget it," Luffy replies with determination. "I'll
protect this straw hat with all my heart, just waiting to return it to you."
Luffy takes off the straw hat, looking at it with nostalgia. It's no longer
just a hat; it's a symbol of his journey and his bond with Shanks.
As Luffy hands the hat to Shanks, the Red Hair Pirates behind him feel a
wave of emotion.
"It's been years since that promise between the boy and the pirate,"
Yasopp sighs, memories flooding back to that small village port.
Shanks examines the worn hat, reflecting on the passage of time and the
weight of their shared will.
"Do you think you're a great pirate now?" Shanks asks in a low voice.
"I don't know about being a great pirate, but I'm determined to be the
Pirate King," Luffy declares with a wide grin.
"And have you found companions who won't lose to me?" Shanks
continues.
"Absolutely," Luffy replies without hesitation, glancing at his crew behind
him. "Zoro, Sanji, Usopp, Nami, Chopper, Robin, Franky, Brook – the best
crewmate in the world."
Zoro and Chopper react with amusement while Shanks smiles at the
camaraderie among them.
As they exchange farewells, Luffy's resolve is stronger than ever, knowing
that his journey is just beginning, and he's surrounded by the best
crewmates anyone could ask for.
Robin chuckled softly, her face turning red with embarrassment as she
playfully teased Luffy and the crew. Brook joined in with his own strange
smile, while Sanji, Nami, and Franky couldn't help but smile at the
lighthearted moment.
"You've really matured, Luffy," Shanks remarked, laughing at the sight of
Luffy and his crewmates.
As Shanks prepared to leave, he tossed Luffy's straw hat to him, declaring
that Luffy was better suited to wear it on his journey to find One Piece.
"It's yours, Luffy. Let's have a banquet together when you become the
Pirate King," Shanks proposed with a hearty laugh.
Luffy, overwhelmed by the gesture, accepted the hat and placed it firmly
on his head. "I will," he vowed quietly.
As Red Force prepared to sail away, a steel ball struck Yasopp on the
ship. Usopp, wearing his Sniper King mask, stepped forward and revealed
his true face.
"This shot is for my mother. I'll surpass you and become the greatest
sniper in the world," Usopp declared, his resolve shining through.
Yasopp, stunned by his son's determination, whispered his
acknowledgement and promised to wait for Usopp in the New World.
As Red Force disappeared into the sea, Yasopp grappled with his
emotions, reflecting on his past and his relationship with his family.
Meanwhile, the Red Hair Pirates onboard tried to console Yasopp,
acknowledging the complexity of his situation.
Shanks, sitting beside Yasopp, offered some words of understanding,
recognizing Usopp's admiration for his father despite their complicated
history.
As emotions ran high, a quiet sob escaped Yasopp's lips, expressing his
pride and longing for his son.
Meanwhile, on the Sabaody Archipelago, life continued with its own
twists and turns.
The Red Force had vanished beneath the waves, leaving Usopp standing
on the shore, his fists clenched tight.
"I'll become the greatest sniper in the world, Luffy," Usopp vowed quietly.
"Of course, I never doubted it," Luffy replied with a laugh. Just as he had
always believed Zoro would become the world's greatest swordsman, he
had faith in Usopp's abilities.
Nami didn't press Usopp about his encounter with Yasopp and the Red
Hair Pirates.
Meanwhile, Douglas Bullet and Byrnndi World watched the departure of
the Red Hair Pirates with disdain.
"Buggy, have you made your decision?" Rayleigh asked Buggy, who
appeared fearful but ultimately chose to leave with Bullet and Byrnndi
World.
"Since it's your decision," Rayleigh acknowledged, confident in Buggy's
peculiar luck.
Bullet taunted Luffy, suggesting they join forces against the Marines and
the World Government. However, Luffy declined, preferring to sail with
his crew.
Bullet warned that they would meet again as enemies, intrigued by
Luffy's strength.
As Bullet departed, Byrnndi World called out to Crocodile, signalling
their own departure.
Luffy faced Crocodile with a mix of disgust and seriousness, remembering
their past encounters.
Luffy couldn't shake the feeling that Crocodile had changed somehow,
sensing a dangerous aura emanating from him despite his increased
strength. However, his attention was mostly focused on Bullet.
"Rayleigh, what's up with Bullet?" Luffy inquired, puzzled by Bullet's
behaviour. "He used to be on the same crew as Roger, but now he's just
annoying."
Rayleigh explained Bullet's tragic transformation from a talented youth to
a lost and power-hungry individual. Despite his current state, Rayleigh
believes there is still some good in Bullet and asks Luffy not to kill him
but to defeat him and give him a chance to find himself again.
"Bullet isn't inherently bad," Rayleigh concluded, prompting a sceptical
response from Nami.
Luffy agreed to Rayleigh's request, expressing his reluctance to kill
anyone and his willingness to help Bullet find his way back.
Rayleigh then offered to have the Whitebeard Pirates' shipwrights coat
their ship, giving them the option to visit Fish-Man Island or spend two
days on Sabaody. Luffy chose the latter, remembering Camie's dream of
an amusement park.
Excited by the prospect, the crew agreed to spend two days on Sabaody,
knowing they could escape easily if the Marines intervened.
Meanwhile, at the Marine port on Sabaody, Bullet and World effortlessly
defeated the garrison soldiers. Despite their prowess, Byrnndi World
hesitated to part ways with Bullet and Crocodile, recognizing their
formidable strength and potential as allies in their quest for revenge
against the World Government.
----------
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73. Pirate King's Crew? Zoro's
Bounty
Byrnndi World doesn't trust anyone anymore.
Decades ago, he was betrayed by those he trusted most. Since then, he's
lost faith in friendship.
The betrayal he experienced was as crushing as Bullet in his youth.
That betrayal shattered his trust in almost everything in life.
Escaping Impel Prison, his sole focus is revenge. Revenge is all that stirs
him now.
Without the drive for revenge, at his age, he wouldn't have such a fierce
fighting spirit.
A man consumed by vengeful flames is terrifying.
"Cooperate?" Bullet eyed Byrnndi World closely.
The eyes of this ancient monster mirrored his own madness and deep
distrust of the world.
They share similar experiences but trust only in their strength, not in
others.
But there's a difference.
Byrnndi World, being older, no longer seeks power or status, only
revenge.
Dreams and pursuits vanished with age and betrayal.
"Sure, we can cooperate," Bullet laughed crazily. "But if you're useless, I
won't hesitate to ditch you, old-timer."
After Roger's death, Bullet has abandoned the idea of partners, believing
they only hold one back.
Partners breed hesitation, weaken resolve, and slow down punches.
He trusts only in his own strength, aiming for the top spot in the world.
Revenge against the Marines and Byrnndi World Government is just a
means to strengthen himself.
But Bullet knows he can't do it alone. He needs help against their
combined might.
However, these helpers are not equals; they are merely tools.
Just like his days as a soldier, disposable pawns.
Of course, Bullet won't resort to deceit. He's made that clear.
"Me too, kid,"Byrnndi World's eyes glinted coldly. "Don't expect me to
save you out of friendship."
"That's fine by me," Bullet remained unfazed.
"Count me in," Crocodile interjected, puffing on his cigar.
He sat nonchalantly on a pile of unconscious Marines, eyeing Bullet and
World.
"BOSS," MR1's face twitched, but he remained silent.
Crocodile knows the risks of teaming up with such dangerous individuals.
But he's determined, and MR1 has no choice but to follow.
"You're not bad yourself, Crocodile," World acknowledged. "I heard you're
a Shichibukai. Fine, you're in, brat."
"Awake at last, Crocodile," Bullet smirked.
Crocodile, once a formidable pirate, may have rivalled Bullet in his
youth. But time changes everything.
Not only did his strength fail to grow, but it also weakened.
His resolve waned, that unsettling, dark spirit.
But now, his courage underwent a transformation.
"It's been too long. Pursuing the wrong path is truly a dreadful thing,"
Crocodile remarked casually.
Once, he vied for power in the New World, but after clashing with
Whitebeard, his will crumbled.
Faced with the might of the world's strongest man, he abandoned self-
improvement for the elusive Ancient Weapon Pluton.
"For so many years, it's been like a bad dream," Crocodile sighed, a flicker
of lost light in his eyes.
This collaboration presents an opportunity despite the dangers posed by
Bullet and Byrnndi World.
But their strength is undeniable.
And if he lacks the capacity to stand alongside these lunatics, it only
proves his own limitations.
Crocodile contemplated much during his time in Eternal Hell on the sixth
floor, reflecting on his defeat by Luffy.
He pondered his failures, realizing he'd grown complacent in the comfort
of being a Shichibukai, like a blade left to rust.
Now, he must push himself relentlessly to reclaim his former peak or
surpass it.
"The long-absent sense of urgency is rather addictive," Crocodile observed
sharply, eyeing Bullet and Byrnndi World.
Madmen, they may be, but who isn't a bit mad?
"It's only fitting," Bullet smirked arrogantly.
"Hey, Buggy, care to join us?" Bullet called out to Buggy nearby.
The bullet didn't hold much regard for the weak fellow, but neither did
he harbour disdain for someone who once shared the same boat.
"Of course, count me in," Buggy fluttered in the air, wearing a
sycophantic smile.
As Bullet turned away, Buggy's grin twisted sinisterly, shadows obscuring
his face.
"After this war, chaos will reign. Even returning to East Blue won't
guarantee comfort without manpower. Better to align with these fools of
history," Buggy reasoned.
"The most perilous place is also the safest. That's the wisdom of Buggy,"
he declared proudly, tapping his chin.
He foresaw the shifting world order.
News of Whitebeard's demise won't stay hidden for long. With the
Marines and World Government defeated, pirates from all corners will
rise.
Alone, he'd be vulnerable to newcomers or increased Marine scrutiny.
Joining Bullet's crew offered security. Despite their insanity, their power
was undeniable. Together, they rivalled even the Four Emperors. And
maybe, just maybe, he could profit from their ventures.
Planning to start his own pirate enterprise, he needed capital desperately.
"Hey, loudmouth, keep it down," World's voice cut through Buggy's
thoughts, sending shivers down his spine.
But World paid him no mind.
All he cared about was revenge, regardless of Buggy's thoughts, as long as
he survived the next move.
"What's next?" Buggy rubbed his hands eagerly, eager to please.
"We'll wreak havoc, provoke the Marines to summon Buster Call. I've
been itching for a taste of it," Bullet declared.
Bullet pressed his hand against the gruesome wound on his chest, a
crazed look in his eyes.
"Why don't you find a shipbuilder? I need the biggest cannon. With my
Moa Moa No Mi fruit, I could blast Mariejois into the sky with one shot,"
he exclaimed madly.
Byrnndi World is crazier than Bullet.
Buggy watched them both, wondering if it was too late to return to
Captain Rayleigh.
They're both too insane for him to handle.
"Since we're fighting the World Government, I have a suggestion,"
Crocodile interjected, cigar in hand.
"Sabaody Archipelago. Mangrove No. 42, Sabaody Playground," he
declared.
Suddenly, a flock of newspaper birds flew overhead, scattering
newspapers like snowflakes.
Another free newspaper rain.
Such events only occurred when a major event shook the world,
spreading the news far and wide.
"Is it news from the last war?" Nami pondered, catching a falling
newspaper as she sat on a merry-go-round.
This paper was thicker than usual and packed with more content.
She opened it to a headline that caught her eye.
"The rise of the worst pirate crew, surpassing even the Four Emperors.
Twenty years after the death of Gol D Roger, another crew of kings
emerges," she read aloud.
"Exaggerated much?" she chuckled, continuing to read.
"Marine and the World Government's failed execution of Ace sparked the
largest war in history, known as the Summit War."
"And now, analysis on why Marine lost," she continued, eyebrows raised.
"Because of the Straw Hat Pirates, the worst crew surpassing even the
Four Emperors, carrying on Whitebeard's will."
"What? Us? The worst pirates? The kings? What's going on?" Nami
exclaimed in disbelief.
At Shakky's Ripped Off Bar,
Rayleigh burst into laughter, holding the newspaper as if it were the
funniest thing he'd ever seen.
"What's this? Marine and government reporters are too much. Are the
Straw Hats surpassing the Four Emperors? Inheriting Whitebeard's
legacy?" he chuckled.
"If that's the case, Monkey and his crew will be targeted by every pirate
in the New World. Those big shots are obsessed with such things," Shakky
remarked, exhaling smoke.
The Four Emperors are a bunch of lunatics, especially Kaido and Big
Mom, she noted, looking down on newcomers with cruelty.
This report will surely grab their attention.
Besides those two lunatics among the Four Emperors, there are plenty of
other big-name pirates in the New World eager for fame.
Luffy and his crew are now in the crosshairs of the World Government.
"It doesn't matter," Rayleigh reassured, his eyes sparkling with interest.
"Luffy and his crew are formidable. These petty tricks won't stop them. If
anything, it only adds to their legend."
"And those guys in the New World should've made a move by now.
What's the use of stagnant waters? Let Luffy stir things up," he added
confidently.
"Are you that confident, Rayleigh? Facing those monsters of the New
World," Shakky asked a hint of surprise in her tone.
"Old era monsters or new era monsters, which is stronger? I'd bet on the
latter," Rayleigh replied calmly and confidently.
At Shimotsuki Village, Isshin Dojo,
"Master Koshiro, look! Brother Zoro was locked in a fierce battle against
the world's greatest swordsman, Hawkeye, in the Summit War," a group
of young apprentices burst into the dojo, excitement written all over their
faces.
Shimotsuki Koshiro, a gentle-looking middle-aged man in priestly robes,
listened attentively. Since Zoro joined the Straw Hat Pirates, their dojo
gained more apprentices, pirates or not.
In the East Blue, where islands are governed nominally by kingdoms with
weak control, strength matters more than allegiance to kingdoms.
Zoro's high bounty attracted teenagers eager to grow stronger.
The apprentices handed Koshiro the newspaper, showing Zoro facing off
against Hawkeye.
Although the picture depicted Zoro seemingly overpowering Hawkeye,
Koshiro knew it was just a spar, not a real battle.
Still, it showed Zoro's remarkable progress, nearing Hawkeye's level.
"Is that Brother Zoro from our dojo?" the apprentices asked eagerly.
"Yes, it's Zoro," Koshiro confirmed with a smile.
After the apprentices left, Koshiro gently touched Zoro's photo,
reminiscing.
"You're getting closer to your goal, Zoro. You must've faced many
challenges," he murmured, genuinely proud.
He then entered another room in the dojo, where a photo of a smiling
girl holding a simple white sword rested on a table.
"You'd be proud to see this, Kuina. Zoro carries your dream on his
shoulders and rises as a top swordsman," Koshiro whispered, wiping a
tear from his eye.
The newspaper printed a picture of Zoro falling from the sky, his blade
slashing at Hawkeye, and it was placed in front of Kuina's photo.
In the most prominent section, Zoro's latest bounty was displayed.
In the image, Zoro's head was wrapped in a turban, his eyes glowed red,
and his shirt was torn, revealing his muscular physique. He gripped a
knife with a white handle between his teeth, known as the Wado
Ichimonji while holding the Third Generation Onigiri and the Black
Sword Shusui in his hands. Behind him, a terrifying aura formed into the
shape of Ashura, hinting at his overwhelming power.
Beneath the image, the caption read:
<em>Straw Hat Pirates, Vice Captain.</em>
<em>Roronoa Zoro.</em>
<em>Dead or Alive.</em>
<em>Bounty: 2 billion Berries.</em>
----------
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74. Fleet Admiral Marine And The
World Conscription
At the Sea Restaurant Baratie...
Zeff sat reading a newspaper, his wooden right leg keeping him steady. A
smile broke through his usually stern expression.
"This kid, he's really come a long way."
Nearby, a group of chefs whispered to each other while cooking.
"What's gotten into the old man today? Is he actually smiling?"
"I think it's because of that newspaper."
As they whispered, a chef burst in, holding the newspaper high.
"Sanji, Sanji, he's become famous!"
"Where? Sanji, that brat?"
Soon, everyone gathered around the newspaper, shocked.
In the paper, a man with black flames under his feet faced off against
Admiral Kizaru, holding his own.
"Hey, boss, how strong is an Admiral?"
The chefs, many of whom had never been to the Grand Line, scratched
their heads, turning to Zeff for answers.
"Admirals? They're top dogs in the sea, the toughest fighters in the
Marines, real monsters."
Zeff explained, a rare smile on his face.
"But if you don't get it, just look at Sanji's bounty."
Zeff said proudly, showing off like a parent.
"So many zeros! 1.9 billion Berries?"
The chefs were stunned. Sanji's bounty was over a hundred times higher
than the leader of the biggest pirate group in East Blue.
"Wait, is something burning?"
Zeff's joy turned to annoyance as he noticed the burnt food.
"You lot! How dare you waste food! Keep cooking and eat these burnt
dishes!"
The chefs scurried off, chastised by Zeff's chef hat.
Later, Zeff stepped onto the deck, gazing at the sea.
"You've exceeded my expectations, Sanji. Chase your dreams, find the
legendary ocean."
In Syrup Village...
"Miss, look at Usopp's news!"
Merry rushed into the mansion, holding the latest newspaper.
In the sunlight, Kaya closed her medical book and took the paper from
Merry.
On it, a photo of Usopp on the Moby Dick, wearing his Sniper King mask
and holding his giant slingshot, looked impressive.
Kaya was momentarily stunned by the mask but recognized Usopp
instantly.
There wasn't much written, just a photo and a brief mention of Usopp.
But below was a bounty for him.
"Straw Hat Pirates sniper, Usopp."
"Dead or alive."
"Bounty: 500 million Berries."
The high reward surpassed most pirates in the sea.
"He's become a brave warrior of the sea, just like he said he would."
Kaya hugged the newspaper, looking out at the tree outside.
Usopp used to sit on the tree trunk, sharing stories with Kaya getting her
through tough times.
"I want to learn medicine too. When Usopp comes back, I'll heal his
wounds."
Kaya cheered herself on, fist clenched.
"Miss Kaya!"
A child's voice interrupted her.
Peering out the window, Kaya saw a ten-year-old kid, a member of Usopp
Pirates from Syrup Village. After Usopp left, they renamed themselves
Usopp Self-Defense Group, with names like Ninjin, Tamanegi, and
Piiman. They idolized Usopp.
"Have you seen Captain Usopp's newspaper?"
Tamanegi waved the paper.
"Yeah, Usopp, big brother made it!"
Kaya smiled, holding her own newspaper.
"Just like I said, Usopp can turn lies into reality."
Ninjin cheered. Kaya smiled softly, feeling happier than ever.
Merry stood beside her, smiling too, remembering when the pirates first
arrived.
In Drum Kingdom...
Dr. Kureha held a wine bottle, looking at the paper with a fond smile.
"Look at him now, like a monster."
The paper showed Chopper's muscles bulging, eyes fierce.
"<em>Straw Hat Pirates' Doctor, Tony Tony Chopper."</em>
<em>"Dead or alive."</em>
<em>"Bounty: 1.4 billion Berries."</em>
"See that, Hiriluk? Your apprentice has grown."
Kureha placed the paper on a cross, pouring wine over it.
In Goa Kingdom, Windmill Village...
"Makino, more wine!"
Dadan yelled, holding a newspaper.
"Dadan, you've had enough."
Makino worried.
"Just one more for the boss. We'll carry her back."
Dadan's brothers insisted, excited about Ace's rescue.
"Who cares about Ace? And Luffy's risking his life at Marine
Headquarters!"
Dadan cursed, drunk.
"Why didn't Garp save Ace? If Ace dies, I'll..."
Her brothers watched, used to her drunken rants about Garp.
Even drunk, Dadan wouldn't stop talking about Garp's failures.
"But Luffy and Ace are okay. That's what matters."
Makino glanced at the newspaper, not caring about bounties, just
relieved that Ace and Luffy were safe.
In the first half of the Grand Line, Paradise...
On the Isle of White Clay, Baltigo...
The headquarters of the Revolutionary Army was hidden here.
"What's got you so happy, Mr. Dragon?"
Revolutionary Army General Staff Sabo approached Dragon.
"Oh, this? It's news about my son."
Dragon smiled, showing the patterns on his face.
"The Straw Hat kid? The one who caused chaos at Marine Headquarters
is your son?"
Sabo took the paper, surprised. But seeing Ace and Luffy, he felt a
headache.
"Forget about that, Sabo."
Dragon didn't notice Sabo's distress.
"Try to contact Ivankov. The world's about to change. We need to
prepare."
The dragon was excited, waiting for a chance to overthrow the World
Government. The Revolutionary Army was weaker, waiting for the right
moment to strike.
Now was the time. The failed plans of the Marines weakened the World
Government's control.
"Sabo?"
Dragon turned to Sabo, who was clutching his head, staring at the paper.
At Marineford...
The island was still being rebuilt after the war.
Marineford was a target for lunatics, like the Golden Lion Shiki, who
attacked twenty years ago.
Garp laughed as he read the paper.
"This is too much."
"The Pirate King's descendants? Inheriting the power of the Gol D. Roger
Pirates? Can power really be inherited? Do these newspaper writers have
any sense?"
Garp picked up his tea, taking a sip. But he couldn't help but spit it out
when he saw the headlines, causing more tic-tac-toe marks on Sengoku's
forehead.
"Ha, the 'Fifth Emperor' surpassing the 'Four Emperors'? Ridiculous."
After a chuckle, Sengoku punched Garp.
"Sorry," Garp apologized, wearing his bag hat.
But as he looked at the paper again, he burst into laughter, tears
streaming down his face.
Can't really blame Garp. The report was outrageously exaggerated,
flattering the Straw Hat Pirates beyond belief.
Luffy defeating Admiral Akainu easily? True, he won, but it wasn't easy.
After defeating Akainu, Luffy was drained. His real strength matched the
Four Emperors', maybe a bit better. It depended on willpower and
stamina.
Luffy's Fifth Gear was powerful but drained energy fast. Against Kaido
and Big Mom, even Fifth Gear might not be enough.
But here, Luffy's danger was exaggerated. And saying Zoro firmly
surpassed Hawkeye? Exaggeration. Hawkeye was on par with the Red-
Haired Shanks.
In short, the World Economic News exaggerated the Straw Hat Pirates'
achievements. Garp knew the truth but found it amusing.
"Okay, Garp, orders from above are in."
Sengoku's gaze was stern as he addressed the room full of top Marines.
"Due to the failure at the Summit War, I'm stepping down as Marine Fleet
Admiral. We need to choose a new one."
Though they knew this was coming, it was still a surprise to many. Aokiji
spoke up, acknowledging the defeat wasn't Sengoku's fault.
"It's done. I'm tired. The new pirates have risen."
Sengoku waved it off. "Our Marine can't rely on us old folks anymore. If
anyone wants to be the new Fleet Admiral, let me know."
"The position of Marine Fleet Admiral?"
Aokiji's eyes hardened with determination. As an Admiral, he saw the
darkness within the organization but felt powerless to change it.
Becoming Fleet Admiral could be his chance to enact real reforms, to
make Marines truly stand for justice instead of being a tool of oppression.
Akainu also clenched his fists, determined to vie for the position. He saw
the weakness of the current Marine as a threat, fueling the rise of pirates.
As Marshal, he could enforce absolute justice.
Kizaru glanced at Aokiji and Akainu, scratching his head. He had no
interest in the position; he just wanted to do his job and go home on
time.
"We'll discuss it after the selection meeting. Next, we need to prepare for
expanding the army," Sengoku announced. "Strength will be the only
criteria for promotions, regardless of seniority or past achievements. We'll
conduct widespread conscription worldwide, promoting to the rank of
Admiral based solely on strength."
----------
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75. Luffy's Reward, All Members
Soar
"What?"
"Just about strength?"
"Admiral title?"
Sengoku's words really shook things up.
The Marines, as a military force, have been around for ages with their
own system of promotions.
Unlike pirates who can climb to the top with sheer strength, Marines
can't just muscle their way into high positions. Even if they're strong,
they need the right qualifications and contributions.
Take Admiral Kizaru, for example. He was a powerhouse before he even
joined the Marines at 26. Now, as a Marine, he's practically unstoppable.
But even with his strength, he had to start as a recruit.
It took him nearly a decade to climb to the rank of Admiral. A pirate with
Kizaru's strength could've reached such heights much quicker.
That's just how the Marines work. Justice is all about order and structure.
But now, it seems like they're shaking things up, challenging the very
system they've built.
Strength over qualifications? It's like they don't care about character
anymore.
Sure, the current Marines aren't all saints. Some Vice Admirals play dirty,
and higher-ups turn a blind eye.
But promoting someone straight to Admiral just because they're strong?
That's not fair to all the hardworking Marines who've earned their stripes,
like Vice Admirals Gion and Chaton.
When Sengoku was questioned about it, Tsuru, a top Marine officer,
voiced her concerns. She knows this could boost their strength in the
short term, but it could mess up the whole system.
Garp stayed silent, sipping his tea. He trusts Sengoku and Tsuru to weigh
all the options.
Zephyr, lost in thought, hadn't considered these matters in a long time.
He used to be in the loop, but after losing his arm and seeking revenge,
he distanced himself from high-level affairs.
Aokiji, always considerate, opposed the idea. He worried it would
overshadow the hard work of lower-ranked Marines who've been fighting
tooth and nail.
He knows firsthand how much they've sacrificed, and promoting
outsiders could erase their efforts.
But Akainu, fiery as ever, saw it differently. He believed the failed war
revealed the Marine's weakness. To combat pirates, they need more
power, plain and simple.
His fists clenched, his passion burning. He couldn't forget the humiliation
of being defeated by a mere boy with a straw hat.
Pirates can't keep running wild. It's time for Marine to step up.
"What do you think, Kizaru?"
Sengoku turned to Kizaru, who was gazing upwards, his mouth twisted in
a smirk.
"Me?"
Kizaru was taken aback by the question, then quickly put on a sheepish
expression. "I think they both have valid points," he replied. "Aokiji's
concerns about the lower-ranked Marines' interests and Sakazuki's idea of
expanding our power both hold weight."
"It's a tough call."
Upon hearing Kizaru's response, Sengoku couldn't help but rub the space
between his brows, feeling a headache coming on.
This guy always plays both sides.
Kizaru was originally brought in by Sengoku himself. Zephyr acted as his
mentor, guiding him much like Garp did with Aokiji.
So Sengoku knew Kizaru well.
He had no issues with intelligence or strength. It was his personality that
was the problem—vague, aloof, and detached.
Despite being a Marine Admiral, those who knew him well saw him as
more of a mercenary within the ranks.
While others worked, he'd go fishing. While others fought, he'd watch
movies. Punch in, punch out.
Aside from Garp, Kizaru was the most lackadaisical guy in the Marines.
"Forget it. I'll report your stance on this matter," Sengoku sighed. "But it
seems likely that the World Government will push for a mass promotion.
We suffered a heavy loss in the recent war."
"Anything else? If not, I'll be setting sail."
Zephyr calmly opened his eyes.
He still had pirates to hunt, and the Summit War had kept him grounded
for days.
Sengoku waved his hand in resignation.
"Oh, one more thing, Kizaru. Get prepared to head to Egghead."
Sengoku suddenly remembered something and addressed Kizaru.
"Did the old man unearth something dangerous again?" Kizaru asked.
But it was no secret. He was originally tasked with guarding Vegapunk
but got reassigned due to the recent conflict.
In truth, he rather liked the job of Vegapunk's bodyguard.
Vegapunk wasn't like those snobbish Celestial Dragons, and Egghead had
its comforts.
Plus, the fishing was top-notch.
Vegapunk was usually busy with research, and Egghead's defences were
solid. Kizaru hardly had to lift a finger.
"Almost. The government plans to transfer a load of resources to Egghead
for Vegapunk's experiments, and you're in charge of escorting them."
"Got it. I'll get ready right away."
Kizaru rose slowly, swaying as he made his way out, a spring in his step.
"After the escort mission, I'll stick around Egghead, Chief Sengoku."
"No, you're heading straight to the New World. You're on standby for
actions against the Four Emperors," came Sengoku's voice from behind.
Kizaru visibly tensed, then let out a soft sigh and departed.
Sabaody Archipelago, playground.
The Straw Hat Pirates gathered around a newspaper, cheering.
"Luffy, you're famous!"
Nami pointed to a photo of Luffy in the paper.
As the hero of the war, Luffy was front and centre.
"The captain of the Straw Hat Pirates, Monkey D. Luffy, the boy who
faced an Admiral head-on. Behind him stood several giants."
"According to our sources, the straw hat Luffy wears once belonged to
Pirate King Gol D. Roger, then it passed to Shanks, and now it's on Luffy's
head."
"Given the achievements of these three, it's safe to say this hat holds
immense power. Anyone who wears it sees a huge boost in strength."
"Also, Luffy, the Straw Hat Kid, has blood as prestigious as Fire Fist Ace.
His father is none other than the infamous leader of the Revolutionary
Army, Dragon, making him heir to the most notorious lineage."
"With such a background, the Straw Hat Boy managed to rise to the top
of the sea and take down Admiral Sakazuki before he even hit twenty."
"Sounds a bit over the top," Zoro chuckled.
The World Economic News Office had dug up quite a bit of dirt. They
even uncovered Gol D. Roger, the original owner of the Straw Hat, and
Dragon, Luffy's father, painting a vivid picture of Luffy's heritage.
In essence, the World Economic News report aimed to highlight two key
points: First, Luffy had inherited the power and legacy of many
formidable figures, explaining his strength. Second, it attributed Marine's
recent failure to Luffy's power and the emergence of two Emperors.
It was an attempt to shift blame from the Marine's shortcomings to the
Straw Hat Pirates' strength, aiming to instil fear in the public and
mitigate the fallout from the Summit War.
"Luffy's bounty..."
"5.1 Billion Berries?"
"Is that for real?"
Nami squinted at the newspaper, rubbing her eyes to make sure she read
it correctly. It was indeed 5.1 billion Berries—a staggering amount.
To Nami, it was like seeing a mountain of gold. They had scored big on
Sky Island, selling only 300 million Berries' worth of gold. Now, Luffy's
bounty alone was seventeen times that.
"There's more," Usopp pointed to a paragraph below Luffy's bounty and
read aloud. "The Five Elders, the world's most powerful figures, set Luffy's
bounty. Interestingly, it surpasses even Whitebeard's, second only to Gol
D. Roger's. This solidifies Straw Hat's position above the Emperors."
"Wow, Whitebeard's bounty is crazy high," Usopp remarked.
"5.1 billion Berries... It's grown quite a bit," Luffy chuckled, adjusting his
straw hat.
For pirates, bounties were like badges of honour, and seeing his own
climb so high was both thrilling and humbling.
"Yeah, it's quite the bounty."
Nami stared at Luffy with wide eyes as if she were looking at a walking
treasure trove.
"Hey, Nami, your gaze is kinda intense," Usopp teased. "You're not
thinking of selling Luffy, are you?"
"What are you talking about, Usopp? You crack me up," Nami chuckled,
giving Usopp's shoulder a playful pat.
But then her expression turned serious as she grabbed Luffy's shoulders
firmly. "Why are you worth so much money, Luffy?"
"Hey now, don't go saying stuff like that," Usopp sighed, shaking his
head. "Our captain's got a heart of gold."
"Look, our bounties," Zoro and Sanji grabbed the newspaper and scanned
it.
"What? Mine's way lower than Luffy's," Zoro grumbled, though a grin
tugged at his lips. Two billion Berries was nothing to scoff at.
Sanji, on the other hand, was over the moon. "Yes! Finally, a bounty that
does justice to my looks!" he exclaimed, dropping to his knees in
excitement.
"Hey, Sanji, there's another bounty list here, and you're on it twice,"
Usopp pointed out, flipping through the paper.
Sanji's previous abstract portrait-style bounty was on one side, while his
latest, showcasing his true handsome self, adorned the other.
"NO!" Sanji groaned, holding his head. "Just give me the old amount."
"You wish, stinky cook. Your pretty face ain't worth half as much as the
second one," Zoro taunted.
"You wanna fight, you shitty swordsman?" Sanji retorted, stomping on
Zoro's blade. "If it weren't for you guys, I'd have a bounty of two billion!"
"Enough with the bickering, you two," Usopp interrupted. But his
laughter turned to shock as he reached his own bounty.
"Why's mine only 1.5 billion Berries?" Usopp exclaimed, his face draining
of colour. "I'm gonna get hunted down by bounty hunters!"
And why was his bounty so high anyway? While Sanji and Zoro were
negotiating with Admirals during the Summit War, he was just taking
potshots at the Moby Dick. Yet his bounty was almost on par with theirs.
What Usopp didn't realize was that his pivotal sniper shot, deflecting
Sengoku's attack at a crucial moment, etched him firmly in Sengoku's
memory.
It's safe to say that if Usopp and Fire Fist Ace hadn't fallen, Marine's
defeat at the Summit War wouldn't have been as pronounced.
With that in mind, Sengoku decided to boost Usopp's bounty higher than
the defeated Chopper's.
Soon enough, Nami joined Usopp, her head in her hands, looking as grey
as ever. Though her bounty wasn't as high as Usopp's, it had still
skyrocketed to 500 million.
That hefty sum left her feeling a bit uneasy.
"Heh, quite the jump," Robin remarked, glancing at her own bounty. Hers
had shot up to 800 million Berries simply for being a Straw Hat Pirate
and a surviving scholar of Ohara.
"No more fifty Berrys," Chopper muttered, almost on the verge of tears as
he looked at his new bounty.
Back in Enies Lobby, he'd held his own pretty well. But he ended up with
a mere fifty Baileys, labelled as a pet.
This time around, however, the Summit War had washed away that
humiliation. Finally, he was recognized for more than just a cute face.
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76. Setting Sail For The New
World, Rayleigh Sees Him Off
After clipping all the reward notices from the newspaper, the latest
bounties for the Straw Hat Pirates have been revealed.
Captain Monkey D. Luffy's bounty is a whopping 5.1 billion Berries.
Vice-Captain Roronoa Zoro is valued at 2 billion Berries.
Our chef, Sanji, has a bounty of 1.9 billion Berries.
Usopp, our sharpshooter, stands at 500 million Berries.
Dr. Tony Tony Chopper is at 1.4 billion Berries.
Nico Robin, known as the Devil's child, has an 800 million Berry price on
her head.
Franky, also known as Iron Man, is rated at 650 million Berries.
Brook, the singer with a nose, carries a 550 million Berry bounty.
Nami, the cat burglar, is worth 500 million Berries.
This sums up the current bounties for all the members of the Straw Hat
Pirates, amounting to nearly 15 billion Berries in total.
Although this sum might not rival those of the Four Emperors' crews, it's
worth noting that the Straw Hat Pirates are significantly smaller in
number. Yet, their combined bounty showcases their formidable strength.
However, there are some discrepancies in these bounties. For instance,
Luffy's bounty seems inflated, given his fame and achievements, though
it's unlikely to surpass that of Whitebeard, who ruled the seas for years.
Usopp's bounty, especially, seems exaggerated, considering his
performance during the Summit War. The same could be said for Nami,
Brook, Robin, and Franky.
Under normal circumstances, Zoro and Sanji, with their strength
approaching Admiral level, should have bounties exceeding 3 billion
Berries. However, due to their positions as second and third in command
and the low previous bounties, their rewards hover around 2 billion.
It's anticipated that once the Straw Hat Pirates make their mark in the
New World, their bounties, except for Luffy's, will skyrocket.
However, entering the New World also means facing numerous pirates
and powerful figures eager to challenge and defeat them. Despite their
high bounties and the World Economic News' hype, many in the New
World view them as easy targets compared to seasoned veterans like the
Four Emperors.
Luffy and the crew weren't bothered by their bounties; they were too
busy enjoying their time with Camie on Sabaody for two days.
Despite the lingering gloom from the Summit War, Sabaody proved to be
a bustling and prosperous island, unlike any they'd encountered before.
Even amidst the sombre atmosphere, there were plenty of intriguing
places to explore. And despite Camie revealing her mermaid identity, no
one harboured any ill intentions towards her or Pappag.
The Straw Hat Pirates' reputation wielded immense power in the first half
of the Grand Line, especially among the nobles. Their brazen attack on
the Celestial Dragons had made waves, and now, even with the Naval
Headquarters nearby, there were no troops sent to confront them. It was
a clear message: for now, even the Navy couldn't afford to provoke them.
Two days later, at Shakky's place, Camie expressed her gratitude to Luffy
and the crew. She knew she could enjoy her time on Sabaody only
because of their protection. For a mermaid like her, being able to freely
roam Sabaody was like a dream come true, considering the
discrimination faced by her kind.
Luffy, being his usual self, brushed off the thanks, emphasizing their
partnership. To him, friendship meant they were all in this together,
regardless of formalities. His sentiment echoed the bond they once shared
with Vivi.
Touched by Luffy's kindness, Camie hugged him tightly while Pappagu
expressed his admiration for the Straw Hat captain.
Sanji, unable to resist the opportunity, wiggled his way into the affection,
earning himself a cascade of hugs from Luffy. Camie's carefree and
adorable personality made her endearing to the crew.
Sanji, overwhelmed by the mermaid's embrace, jokingly declared he
could die happily at that moment, basking in the joy of the "mermaid's
hug."
With a clang, Zoro's sword slipped from his grasp, grazing Sanji's cheek
as it fell.
"Hey, green-haired seaweed head, aiming to off me?" Sanji quipped.
"Just lending a hand for your 'happy' demise. No need for thanks," Zoro
retorted.
"Dying by your hand? Far from happy," Sanji shot back.
Their usual banter filled the air as Miss Shakky watched with amusement.
Rayleigh's arrival interrupted their squabble. "Luffy, time to hit the seas,"
he announced.
"Garp's leading a Marine warship here from headquarters."
"Garp's here?" Luffy's surprise was evident.
"Likely to give you a heads-up, little Monkey," Shakky interjected. "You've
lingered too long in Sabaody, drawing too much attention. Each day here
is a dent in the Naval Headquarters' pride."
"Marine doesn't want a showdown, so they send Garp to nudge you,"
Usopp chimed in. "Smart move."
"Indeed, you're now the infamous King of Pirates. Even Marine treads
lightly," Shakky chuckled. "They're stretched thin post-Summit War. It's
time for you to move on."
Rayleigh added, "The first half of the Grand Line might feel dull now.
New World's where the real action is."
"Is it really that thrilling?" Luffy's eyes sparkled with curiosity.
"Absolutely," Rayleigh affirmed. "Unpredictable weather, bizarre
spectacles, diverse races, constant battles, and formidable foes. It's an
adventure like no other."
Luffy's excitement was palpable, Zoro's hand twitching on his sword's hilt
in anticipation.
"I can't wait to taste New World cuisine," Sanji mused, lighting a
cigarette.
Chopper's eyes gleamed with anticipation.
Nami and Usopp, however, exchanged nervous glances.
"The Grand Line's a paradise compared to that?" Nami wondered aloud,
her voice trembling.
"Just how dangerous is the New World?" Usopp added, his teeth
chattering.
"Alright, everyone, prepare to set sail," Luffy declared, brimming with
excitement.
Rayleigh's words ignited Luffy's excitement, prompting him to leap off
the bar with a triumphant shout. Chopper and the others echoed his
enthusiasm, though Nami and Usopp's apprehension was palpable.
Navigating through the intricate waterways of Sabaody, they reached the
Sunny, now fully coated and gleaming in the sunlight. Luffy and Chopper
wasted no time in indulging in some playful antics on the deck.
Rayleigh cautioned them about the submerged mangrove roots, advising
them to sail beyond Sabaody's perimeter before diving.
Concerned for Rayleigh's safety, Luffy inquired if he was fleeing, too.
Rayleigh reassured him, opting to lay low in the Calm Belt after bidding
them farewell. He reminded Luffy of the storm awaiting him in the New
World.
With a heartfelt goodbye, Luffy set sail, leaving Rayleigh with bittersweet
memories of their encounter.
Meanwhile, Shakky offered Rayleigh a glass of reminiscence wine,
prompting a nostalgic reflection on youth.
As the Sunny ventured into the open sea, they encountered Garp aboard
a warship. Despite Garp's stern demeanour, Luffy confidently bantered
with him, showcasing his growth since their last encounter in Water 7.
Garp reminded Luffy of his new role as a Marine Vice Admiral, but
Luffy's carefree attitude remained unchanged. Their familial ties mattered
little in the face of their opposing roles.
With a hearty laugh, Garp vanished from the bow in a blink. He traversed
the air effortlessly, closing the distance between him and the Sunny in a
flash.
"Maybe it's time you retired from the Marines, old man," Luffy teased, his
body enveloped in a radiant white light.
In response, Luffy propelled himself into the air, leaving behind a trail of
white steam. "Gommu Gommu no, pistol!" he shouted, his arm raised
high as he launched himself towards Garp with blinding speed.
Garp, grinning with anticipation, met Luffy's charge head-on, his fist like
a massive sandbag.
The collision unleashed an invisible shockwave, distorting the sea below
and creating a swirling vortex of power. Black lightning crackled, and the
air rippled with intensity.
Between their fists, clouds of white sonic booms erupted, a testament to
the immense power of their clash.
With a resounding boom, the clash of Haki erupted, sending Luffy
recoiling back onto Sunny while Garp landed firmly on his warship.
"Until next time, Grandpa!" Luffy called out, waving as soap bubbles
enveloped the Sunny, concealing their escape beneath the waves right
under Garp's nose.
"You've grown, Luffy," Garp remarked, examining his fist with newfound
respect. The encounter gave him a deeper understanding of Luffy's
strength, a realization that had eluded him during the Summit War.
Beside him, his sunglasses-clad adjutant could only shake his head in
disbelief. Seeing Garp, a Vice Admiral, being pushed back with a single
punch was certainly unexpected.
"There's no shame in admitting defeat, old man," Garp chuckled
innocently, holding his nostrils playfully. His companions, Kobi and
Helmeppo, exchanged knowing glances, having witnessed Garp's antics
countless times before.
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77. Four Emperors? So What
"Right now, Mr. Luffy is really strong. He took Mr. Garp's attack without
flinching.
Coby, standing beside Garp, looked up to him with admiration.
He's Luffy's biggest fan. Seeing how powerful Luffy is makes me really
happy for him.
"Considering he's one of the Five Emperors with a bounty of 5.1 billion
berries now, even Sakazuki Admiral couldn't beat him," Helmeppo said
nervously.
As the son of Axe-Hand Morgan, he once thought of challenging the
Straw Hat Crew when he got stronger. But after the Battle of the Top, he
changed his mind. When Luffy punched a hole into Marineford, he knew
he'd follow Luffy forever.
"If anyone can do it, it's Coby," Helmeppo said, looking at Coby beside
him. They've trained together for so long, and he knows Coby's talent
surpasses his.
"Instead of thinking so much, let's focus on training. When will you two
little devils grow up?" Garp said, ready to head back to the cabin, but
then his gaze froze.
On the trunk of a massive Yarukiman mangrove tree at the Sabaody port
sat a man with silver hair and a silver jug— Rayleigh.
Seeing Rayleigh, Coby and Helmeppo tensed up.
"That's Dark King Silver's Rayleigh," Coby exclaimed, going on high alert.
"Why are you nervous? He won't attack us," Garp said dismissively,
waving his hand.
"Don't worry about him. We're done here. Tell headquarters the Straw
Hat Crew has escaped. Let's go," Garp said, turning to leave.
"Mr. Garp, aren't we going to arrest Rayleigh?" Helmeppo asked
suspiciously.
Garp sighed. "Trying to catch a retired old guy like him is a waste of
time. Besides, he's a legendary pirate. Let's not make it seem like catching
a mouse. Back then, even Sengoku and I didn't team up to catch him.
One-on-one, he'd just run away. Let's go."
Deep in the sea aboard the Sunny, they arrived at Fish-Man Island for the
second time.
As they docked, a group of people welcomed them. "Lord Luffy, the king
invites you to the The Ryugu<em>Palace</em> for a banquet," a
mermaid with blue hair said respectfully, holding a golden trident.
"What's going on?" Luffy asked curiously.
"This is Prince Fukaboshi, eldest prince of the Ryugu Palace Kingdom,"
Hatchan explained. "He's inviting you. His Majesty Neptune wants to
discuss something with you."
"The king?" Chopper exclaimed in surprise.
"Don't worry, everyone. His Majesty Neptune is a good person and a
friend of Whitebeard," Hatchan reassured them.
Hachan, once a member of the Sun Pirates, explained that the Ryugu
Palace Kingdom and the Sun Pirates had a good relationship, working
together to maintain peace on Fish-Man Island.
"Old man Whitebeard?" Luffy muttered, remembering Whitebeard's face
fondly.
"Since Hatchan says so, let's head to the banquet," Luffy chuckled.
"A friend of a friend is a friend too," Luffy always thought that way.
The grand welcoming party led them to the Ryugu Palace.
Pirates at the port couldn't help but stare in surprise.
"Who's that big shot? Invited by the Dragon Palace folks as a pirate?" one
asked, recalling similar treatment for the Whitebeard and Red Hair
Pirates a few days prior.
"Don't you know?" another quickly explained. "That's the Straw Hat
Pirates, now known as the Kings of Pirates, even above the Four
Emperors!"
"The guy in the straw hat is the captain, Straw Hat Luffy. He took on
Marine Admiral Akainu in the battle up top, caused chaos at the Navy
HQ, and saved Ace the Fire Fist."
"Wow, that's the pirate with a bounty of 5.1 billion!" a pirate exclaimed,
sweating nervously, and edged away from the discussion.
"This feels weird, like a monkey surrounded by people," Zoro muttered,
eyeing the surrounding pirates.
"Yeah, isn't it awesome? Zoro, just ignore them," Luffy said, striding
ahead.
"Oh, by the way, hatchan, where's Jinbei?" Luffy suddenly asked,
remembering.
Jinbei stayed back on Sabaody for a day before hurrying to Fish-Man
Island. Luffy and the crew had a good impression of the chivalrous
merman.
"I'm not sure, but Boss Jinbei seems busy lately," Hatchan replied. He
hadn't kept in touch with the Sun Pirates since joining Arlong.
Since Arlong's defeat, Hachan had left piracy for a takoyaki business,
losing touch with Jinbei's activities.
"Okay," Luffy said, scanning the scenery of Fish-Man Island.
Soon, Luffy, Chopper, and Usopp split from the group to explore and grab
some island snacks.
"Is this Fish-Man Island? These bubble gadgets remind me of Sabaody,"
Zoro remarked, intrigued by the surroundings.
Meanwhile, Sanji had already wandered off, charming a beautiful
mermaid.
"These guys are hopeless," Nami sighed, watching their antics, relieved
they didn't stray too far from the group.
Led by Prince Fukaboshi, Luffy and the crew arrived at a magnificent
building.
"What a stunning sight," Nami and Robin remarked in awe.
"Is this the Ryugu King's Palace? It's quite extravagant," Zoro observed,
looking at the grand structure ahead.
"Incredible place," Luffy laughed, marvelling at the sight.
TheRyugu Palace City stood atop Fish-Man Island, bathed in sunlight
from the sun tree Eve, giving it a radiant appearance.
Built from large corals, shells, and other materials, the city resembled a
massive, intricate artwork.
"Brother Luffy!" Jinbei called out as they entered the city.
"Jinbei!" Luffy greeted warmly.
"Let's go, the banquet hosted by His Majesty Neptune is about to start,"
Jinbei said, leading them inside.
King Neptune sat on his throne and offered Luffy a seat beside him,
reserved for esteemed guests like Whitebeard and Red Hair.
Luffy waved it off. "That seat's too fancy for me. I'll sit here."
"Very much your style, Brother Luffy," Jinbei chuckled.
The banquet began, offering a variety of meats, fine wines, and beautiful
mermaids, delighting Luffy and the crew.
After indulging in food and drink, Neptune approached them.
"Straw Hat, I have a favour to ask," Neptune said quietly.
"My lord, father," Fukaboshi and the other ministers looked concerned,
finding Neptune's request unorthodox for a king.
But Neptune waved them off. "Why so serious?"
Luffy grinned. "You're friends with Whitebeard and Jinbei, so you're our
friend, too. If you need help, just ask."
Neptune was taken aback by Luffy's sincerity.
"You're truly remarkable, Straw Hat Boy."
Neptune had encountered many formidable pirates and notable figures
on Fish-Man Island. But Luffy stood out from them all. Unlike
Whitebeard's commanding presence or Shanks' effortless charisma, the
straw hat-wearing boy exuded a sincerity and innocence that was almost
childlike. His mere presence had a comforting effect on those around
him.
"I'll get straight to the point," Neptune said solemnly. "I want to ask for
your help in using your flag to safeguard Fish-Man Island."
Neptune's earnest words reverberated through Ryugu Palace City, causing
discomfort among the ministers and Fukaboshi, who gripped his golden
trident tightly.
It wasn't that they doubted Luffy; rather, they felt uneasy about relying
on outsiders for protection. However, circumstances dictated otherwise,
much like when the Whitebeard Pirates left their flag behind as a symbol
of protection.
The atmosphere grew tense, with Neptune lowering his head and Jinbei
watching Luffy intently. Zoro and Sanji, sensing the gravity of the
situation, awaited their captain's response.
Luffy scratched his chin, adopting a serious expression as if pondering the
request deeply. Then, his head tilted slightly, confusion growing on his
face.
"What do you mean by 'borrowing the flag' to protect the island?" he
asked, puzzling everyone present.
The reaction was instantaneous. Nami couldn't believe Luffy's apparent
cluelessness and delivered a swift punch to his head.
Jinbei rose to clarify, explaining that planting their pirate flag on the
island's most prominent spot would signify to all pirates that Fish-Man
Island belonged to the Straw Hat Pirates. Any troublemakers would be
considered enemies of the crew. This practice was common in the New
World, where territory held significant value.
Understanding dawned on Luffy as Jinbei spoke, and he nodded in
agreement.
"You see that flag?" Jinbei pointed to the imposing pirate flag flying
above Fish-Man Island—a skull with a beard resembling a crescent moon.
"That's old man Whitebeard's flag," Luffy remarked, recalling his time
aboard the Moby Dick.
"That's right. But since Whitebeard's flag already flies here, why ask for
yours?" Sanji inquired, seeking clarification.
Despite the widespread coverage in newspapers, they were nowhere near
Whitebeard in terms of fame. Whitebeard's name has been revered from
the time of Roger to the present.
"You know about my late wife," Jinbei said quietly. "News spreads fast,
especially in the New World."
"After Pop's passing, word got out that Kaido had begun attacking his
territory while Ace and the others fought back," Jinbei continued. "Fish-
Man Island is far from Dad's turf, but with his name to shield it, no one
dared cause trouble. Now that he's gone, this place is a target."
"Who's giving you trouble, Jinbei?" Zoro inquired, acknowledging Jinbei's
strength, though not on par with theirs.
"Big Mom," Jinbei replied, his fists clenched. "She's a Yonko; her power
rivals that of the Four Emperors. None of us can match them."
The reason Big Mom targeted Fish-Man Island was simple: the island's
delectable snacks.
"Four Emperors," Nami said solemnly. "They're the pinnacle of piracy."
"So they're already making a move? How intriguing," Zoro grinned, his
eyes gleaming with determination.
"I know this request might seem abrupt," Neptune whispered. "Choosing
to shelter you means facing Big Mom head-on. It's no joke."
"But aren't you friends with old man Whitebeard?" Luffy asked, confused.
"And Jinbei's from here. Of course, we'll help."
"And you treated us to such a feast," Luffy added, grinning.
"Do you understand what it means to protect Fish-Man Island?" Neptune
asked incredulously. "It means you'll be enemies of Big Mom."
"So?" Luffy tilted his head, puzzled.
"That's the Four Emperors," Neptune sighed wearily.
"I know, but so what?" Luffy replied, his smile unwavering. "We came to
the New World to take on the Four Emperors."
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78. Amazing Beauty, Mermaid
Princess
Luffy's calm demeanour caught Neptune off guard. Despite his carefree
nature, there was a confidence and Haki about him that rivalled
Whitebeard and Shanks. The aura of a sea emperor emanated from him,
stronger even than that of the king of the merfolk.
It was evident that Luffy's Haki, though sporadically displayed, was
concealed beneath his carefree facade. It wasn't a matter of how deep
Luffy's character was but rather his innate lack of hierarchical
consciousness. He treated everyone equally, a trait that earned him praise
from those who met him.
"You'll always be a friend to the Ryugu Palace Kingdom, Straw Hat Boy,"
Neptune declared solemnly.
"Of course!" Luffy grinned broadly.
"You're welcome to stay on Fish-Man Island for as long as you like,
including Ryugu Palace City," Neptune chuckled. "There's much to
explore and enjoy here."
"Thank you, Uncle Mermaid. You're a good guy," Luffy remarked, sensing
Neptune's warmth.
In Luffy's eyes, kings like Cobra and the Mermaid King were all kind-
hearted uncles.
"I wonder how Vivi's doing now," Luffy mused, his thoughts drifting. "I'll
visit her after travelling around the world for a bit."
"Nami asked Jinbei, "Won't you join us?"
"No, not this time. I have some matters to attend to," Jinbei declined with
a hearty laugh.
Sanji and Robin exchanged puzzled glances. They couldn't shake the
feeling that Jinbei had distanced himself from them since arriving on
Fish-Man Island. However, they sensed no ill intent, so they brushed it
off.
As Luffy vanished into the distance, Sanji couldn't help but groan in
frustration. "That idiot, always disappearing like that."
"Don't worry, we'll find him soon with our resources. Enjoy your time on
Fish-Man Island," Neptune assured them, suggesting they visit attractions
like the Mermaid Bar and Fisherman Bay.
"Mermaid Bar?" Sanji's eyes sparkled with excitement, envisioning a
sunny beach and beautiful mermaids waving at him. Without a second
thought, he declared, "I'm going to Mermaid Bay!"
Nami sighed in resignation, deciding to go shopping with Robin instead.
"Let's head to Mermaid Shopping Street for some clothes."
As the Straw Hat Pirates departed, Neptune cast a sideways glance at
Jinbei. "Hey, Jinbei, what's on your mind?"
"Joining the Straw Hats, unlike Fire Fist Ace, I believe Straw Hat Luffy
has the potential to become a king and change the world," Neptune
murmured softly. Having ruled the Fishman kingdom for many years,
Neptune had encountered countless exceptional individuals on Fishman
Island, including Whitebeard, Roger, and Shanks. His keen eye could
discern something special about Luffy beyond his carefree demeanour.
With his monstrous strength, Luffy had the capacity to alter the course of
history.
"Brother Luffy possesses qualities that surpass Brother Ace's. After
spending time with those rowdy fellows, even an old man like me feels
compelled to join," Jinbei remarked, his gaze unwavering. However, he
acknowledged his duty to the Sun Pirates, who were entrusted to him by
Fisher Tiger. He was committed to continuing their journey.
"I urge you to consider carefully, Jinbei. Whether it's for your ideals or to
honour Tiger's legacy," Neptune urged solemnly. "With your strength
alone, you'll struggle to fulfil Tiger's will. Luffy embodies tolerance and
equality, qualities that align with your own principles."
Neptune reminded Jinbei of the regret he might face for missing out on
another opportunity, emphasizing that he was no longer a Warlord.
Jinbei pondered in silence, torn between his loyalty to the Sun Pirates
and his admiration for the Straw Hat crew. Neptune's words struck a
chord, highlighting the importance of his decision.
"Don't be too self-important, Jinbei," Neptune advised firmly before
leaving him alone with his thoughts.
Meanwhile, Luffy found himself exploring Ryugu Palace City's vast
corridors, marvelling at its grandeur. Utilizing his Gommu Goomu no mi
Fruit powers, he ascended to a high vantage point to get his bearings.
"I found it!" Luffy exclaimed with a grin, spotting a prominent tower-like
structure in the distance. As he approached, he noticed its formidable
construction and prison-like appearance, complete with heavy chains
adorning the doors.
"Could this be a wrong turn? But I smell food inside. Maybe it's the
Ryugu Palace Kingdom's food storage," Luffy pondered, intrigued by the
possibility.
Luffy's eyes sparkled with excitement as he contemplated the delicious
food awaiting him within Ryugu Palace City.
"Uncle Mermaid can go anywhere, so that means this place can also be
explored," Luffy chuckled. With a twist of Armament Haki, he effortlessly
snapped the heavy iron chain securing the door.
"Anyone there?" Luffy called out as he pushed open the massive door and
ventured inside.
The interior of the tower was dark and devoid of windows, with seawater
covering the ground ankle-deep. Luffy's curiosity piqued, especially upon
sensing two emotions of fear nearby.
"Prisoners? But it doesn't feel like it," Luffy mused, following the
perceived emotions.
Suddenly, he stumbled upon a large, soft surface. Its elasticity resembled
a trampoline, prompting Luffy to bounce and play on it joyfully.
"This is fun!" Luffy exclaimed, relishing the comfort of the soft surface.
But just as he was about to settle in for a nap, the bed began to rise and
tremble violently.
"What's happening? An earthquake?" Luffy wondered, his senses tingling
with fear.
In a flash of light, a massive figure lunged at him, teeth bared. With
quick reflexes, Luffy blocked the attack with his Armament Haki-covered
arm.
As his eyes adjusted to the sudden brightness, Luffy beheld a colossal
mermaid and her shark companion. The mermaid, Shirahoshi, exuded
beauty and vulnerability, her tear-filled eyes captivating Luffy's attention.
Before Luffy could react, a red light flashed, and he vanished from sight.
In the next instant, a giant axe hurtled toward Shirahoshi.
Reacting swiftly, Luffy intercepted the axe with his Armament Haki-
infused fist, sending it crashing to the ground.
Puzzled by the unexpected turn of events, Luffy eyed the axe warily.
Despite lacking hostility, its powerful strike raised questions in his mind.
As Luffy sat comfortably, enjoying his meal, Shirahoshi watched him
with a curious smile. Her presence loomed large beside him, her gentle
voice filling the air.
"You are Neptune's daughter? Shirahoshi, right?" Luffy inquired between
bites, his tone casual yet inquisitive. "You're as big as your dad, but you
seem pretty timid, so I'll call you Coward."
Upon learning of Luffy's association with her father, Shirahoshi expressed
relief, admitting she had mistaken him for a villain and nearly lost him.
"Is Lord Luffy a pirate?" Shirahoshi asked, her tone tinged with curiosity.
"Did you come to Fish-Man Island from far away?"
"Yep, I'm a pirate," Luffy affirmed cheerfully between mouthfuls of food.
"I've seen lots of things outside, like the sun and flowers. It's different
from Fish-Man Island. If you're curious, why not go out and see for
yourself?"
"Because if I go out, I'll die," Shirahoshi replied with a mix of awe and
longing, her gaze fixed on the tower's gate.
Moved by her sadness, Luffy's eating slowed, and he listened attentively
as Shirahoshi shared her sorrowful past.
"It's so bitter," Luffy remarked, his tongue protruding in distaste. But the
bitterness he tasted was nothing compared to the sorrow in Shirahoshi's
heart.
"Alright, alright, don't cry, Coward," Luffy reassured her, swallowing the
bitter food in a few swift gulps. "If you're so eager to see the outside
world, I'll take you out. After all, nothing beats seeing it with your own
eyes."
But Shirahoshi hesitated, her fear evident. Luffy, however, remained
undeterred, promising to protect her from any danger they might
encounter.
"Nothing to worry about! I'm super strong. I'll keep you safe. And if any
weird attacks come our way, I'll knock 'em out!" Luffy declared with
confidence, grabbing Shirahoshi's shell corset and hoisting her onto his
shoulder.
"Let's go!" Luffy exclaimed, ready to set out.
----------
You can read advanced chapters here: patreon.com/GregariousLion
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