WTR-LABI'm in One Piece, I'm Luffy's Childhood FriendCh. 186 / 21058.84%WebWeb+AI#186Let me become your partner.Chapter 185: Let Me Be Your comradesThe sea breeze brushed against their faces; the sea was calm.After bidding farewell to Vivi in Alabasta, the going merry set sail again. The Marine had not caught up, and everything seemed to have returned to tranquility, but since they were on the open sea, it wouldn't remain peaceful for long.For instance, just as Luffy and the others were disappointed that Vivi hadn't come along, Robinsuddenly pushed open the cabin door and walked out."You have finally escaped from that island nation. You have worked hard.""Eh!!!!!!"The exclamation nearly gave the going merry a fright.Zoro immediately gripped the hilt of his sword. "Are you here to take revenge for the organization? If you have the guts, bring it on."Nami covered both sides of her head with her hands. "Why are you here?!"Sanji was swooning as usual; if this had been a man, he would have been kicked into the sea long ago.Usopp shouted: "Enemy attack! Enemy attack!!" His head swung left and right until he found a suitable hiding spot: behind the ship's mast.Chopper also hid half of his face behind the mast, with the rest of him exposed, screaming in surprise. Finally, he realized he didn't seem to recognize Robin. "Who?"Luffy and Satoru were much calmer.Satoru had been sleeping in the crow's nest. Hearing the commotion, he pulled up his eye mask to take a look, then lowered it and went back to sleep.Luffy, on the other hand, looked at Robin calmly. "Aren't you the big sister that Satoru mentioned back under the tomb? Why are you here?"Robin raised her hands, and arms bloomed on Zoroand Nami, knocking away the hands they were using to grip their weapons."I said before, do not hold such dangerous things."Then, as if she had arrived at her own home, Robinfound a folding lounge chair."When did you get on the ship!!"Nami asked at this moment."I have been in the cabin the whole time, taking a bath, reading books... This piece of clothing I'm wearing is yours, right? Let me borrow it."Robin replied indifferently.Ignoring Nami's shouting, "What exactly do you want, you witch from the B·W organization!!", she looked at Luffy instead."Monkey D. Luffy, you haven't forgotten what you did to me, have you?"Robin's words confused Luffy. What did I do? Besides, when we were under the tomb, weren't you with Satoru the whole time?Sanji, the lecherous cook, was the first to get anxious, grabbing Luffy and asking."What! Luffy!! What did you do to the beautiful big sister?!"Meanwhile, Usopp was lying on the ground, having pulled out a megaphone from who knows where, and shouted at Robin."This passenger, please get off the ship immediately."He was quite polite, but it seemed no one paid him any mind.Luffy was anxious. If he had done something and refused to admit it, he would purse his lips, displaying his clumsy lying skills.But he hadn't done anything. "Don't talk nonsense!! I didn't do anything!""Weren't you with Satoru the whole time back then?!""Right! Satoru!"Luffy stretched out his hands, elongated them to grab Satoru's shoulders, and pulled him down.Satoru was caught off guard!"Holy sh*t!!"Fortunately, he was agile and landed steadily in the pose of a "failed man.""Long time no see, big sister.""A day apart feels like three autumns.""That makes nine autumns."Robin glanced at Satoru, didn't answer, and sat directly on the lounge chair."No, you made me suffer an unacceptable blow.""So, you have to be responsible for the compensation."Satoru's main profession was "breaking the facade.""Can I interpret this statement as: because we destroyed the B·W organization, big sister has become a wanderer with nowhere to go?""How~ pitiful!"Robin: "...""Three days apart, and the little brother's mouth is still just as sweet.""Little brother, big sister!!""Satoru, you bastard, what kind of relationship do you have with the beautiful big sister?"Sanji was jealous.Satoru smiled and replied, "The relationship where I have hugged her, and she has hugged me.""You bastard!!"Sanji was so angry that his whole body was burning.Luffy still felt confused. "This is baffling. So, what exactly do you want to do?"Robin straightened her back, supported her chin with one hand, and stated her purpose."Let me... become your comrades."
Chapter 186: The Archaeologist and the MercenaryRobin showed how to shock the entire Straw Hat Pirates with a single sentencewell, except for Bai Yun, who remained quite calm.The moment Robin uttered, "Let me become your crewmate," everyone except Bai Yun shouted in astonishment, "What?!" doubting their own ears... "The answer I've been searching for over 20 years still eludes me, even here.""I'm tired. I thought I was going to die here.""The two of you saved me from Crocodile.""Now I'm alive, but I don't know if I should keep going, and I can't bring myself to end my own life.""I'm also homeless, so you have to take me in."Robin stated her case logically and clearly.Bai Yun replied cheekily, "Oh my, are you offering yourself to us in return? No need! We were just upholding justice and happened to lend a hand."Robin returned the smile, then looked at Luffy, knowing he was the captain and the decision to keep her rested with him.Luffy replied carelessly."Oh, so that's how it is. Alright then.""Luffy!!"Everyone else, except Bai Yun and Sanji, yelled that the decision was too reckless! Meanwhile, Sanji joyfully raised his hands, his eyes turning into hearts.Luffy grinned, flashing his white teeth. "Don't worry, she's not a bad person."Bai Yun yawned, "Yesss, I can vouch for that. If it weren't for the antidote the big sister gave him, Luffy probably would have been poisoned into being even dumber."Hearing this, the crew realized the situation, and half of their resistance toward Robin vanished.But Luffy protested, "What do you mean 'even dumber,' Bai Yun!"Smiling, Bai Yun pulled an apple from out of nowhere and sent Luffy off to eat it happily... Although they had agreed to let Robin join the crew, the others knew nothing about her besides the fact that she was Crocodile's former vice-captain, so Usopp was tasked with conducting an interrogation.However, anyone on deck and conscious could easily hear their conversation.Usopp dragged Bai Yun along, even though Bai Yun muttered, "I think I'm asleep.""I became an archaeologist when I was eight, and then I was put on the wanted list.""However, concerning my past, perhaps little brother Bai Yun might know something."This was Robin's way of probing, and her statement immediately drew everyone's attention to Bai Yun.Bai Yun appeared unperturbed and offered his usual explanation."Haven't I told you guys?""When I was little, before I met Luffy and his grandfather, I was a mercenary. I traveled all over with my older brothers, so naturally, I saw big sister Robin's wanted poster. My eyes are pretty sharp; even though you grew from a little girl into a grown woman, Miss Robin, I still recognized you.""A mercenary... I didn't realize that's what you did before, Bai Yun.""And that was *before* you met Luffy? I thought you grew up with him."Usopp looked somewhat surprised."Yeah, I met Luffy when I was seven. I was a mercenary for two and a half years.""Big sister Robin became an archaeologist at eight; me being a mercenary at seven isn't too outlandish, is it?""I wasn't involved in the fighting, but I could handle logistics and support."Bai Yun explained, while Robin rested her chin on her hand and smiled in response."I actually think you should have been fighting, little brother Bai Yun. With that mouth of yours, you could defeat a million soldiers.""Hahaha, big sister Robin, you flatter me."Bai Yun replied with a laugh.Usopp felt the atmosphere was neither tense nor pleasantjust plain weirdso he quickly steered the conversation elsewhere."Please continue, Miss Robin.""Alright.""After I was put on the wanted list, I spent the next 20 years hiding my identity to evade the Navy.""How could an eight-year-old girl survive? I had no choice but to rely on various 'bosses' just to get by.""That's why I'm very skilled at strategy and planning. I'm sure I'll be useful.""Speaking of which, how old is little brother Bai Yun?""Seventeen.""Then when little brother Bai Yun was seven, I was exactly eighteen. I was doing fairly well and had a decent grasp of information across the four seas. You were a mercenary from the East Blue, weren't you?"Bai Yun hadn't expected Robin to pull that move."Yes."But Robin didn't ask the name of his mercenary group. Instead, she offered a smile that showed she had successfully countered his move.Bai Yun paused for a moment, then returned the smile.
Chapter 187: SnugglesHaving been "in the game" since she was eight, Robin was much harder to fool than Nami.She knew Bai Yun's mercenary identity was fake but didn't expose him. Instead, she flashed a triumphant smile, leaving Bai Yun with no choice but to return it. "Hmm, a mercenary and an archaeologist?""You two certainly have rich experiences.""So, what are you good at, Miss?""Bai Yun is good at everything."Usopp continued his interrogation.Robin maintained her smile but still kicked the topic back to Bai Yun."Good at everything? Little Brother Bai Yun is truly reliable.""That was certainly evident in Alabasta.""So, what devil fruit did Little Brother Bai Yun eat?"Bai Yun, mimicking her, rested one hand on his chin.With a wave of his other hand, he added two more blooming arms to Luffy and Chopper, who were playing with Robin's blooming arms.Although Robin had guessed it before, she was still a little surprised. "What a domineering and terrifying ability.""Just so-so."Bai Yun replied."Should I leave so you two can talk?"Usopp interjected.Robin looked at him. "I'm sorry, but Little Brother Bai Yun is truly intriguing.""What I'm good at is...""Assassination."Robin said it casually, but Usopp was scared to death."Interrogation over, Luffy!!""The interrogation proves this woman is a terrifying terrorist."But Luffy and Chopper were already having a blast playing with the blooming arms."Are you two even listening to me?!"Usopp shouted, exasperated.Just then, Nami's voice drifted down from the second-floor deck."It's pathetic to be willingly fooled.""Wake up, you guys. This woman was the vice-president of a criminal organization and Crocodile's good partner just three days ago. Even if you can fool Luffy and those who call any woman 'big sister'—"Bai Yun smiled back, knowing she was referring to him."—you won't fool me! If you dare to cause trouble, I'll throw you overboard."Nami declared righteously, showing that even if everyone else was drunk, she would remain sober.In response to Nami's warning, Robin still smiled. "Hehe, yes, I'll keep that in mind." Then she pulled out a bag of gems from behind her back. "Oh, by the way, I brought some gems from Crocodile."The righteous Nami instantly moved to Robin's side, her eyes gleaming gold. "Wow! Big sister, I love you!"Sure enough, no one could escape the 'true fragrance' law.Zoro and Usopp's expressions showed their speechlessness."Hey! Hey! Hey!""This is bad, Nami's been bought off.""What a sinister tactic."Zoro grumbled.Bai Yun walked over. "Sinister? Anyone with a brain, after understanding her, would know how to buy off Nami.""As for Sanji, he's purely lustful."The three watched Sanji swaying his hips, like a peacock displaying its feathers to court, as he offered pastries to Robin, all indicating that this guy was beyond saving."No backbone at all."This was the green-haired man's disdain for the perverted cook.Usopp also raised his hand, as righteous as Nami. "What a bunch of troublesome guys!" But before he could say "unlike me," Luffy's voice called him from behind."Usopp.""What?""I'm Chopper." Luffy's straw hat grew blooming arms on both sides, as he cosplayed Chopper."Pfft! Hahahaha!!"And the righteous Usopp instantly broke character, laughing so hard with Chopper that they were pounding the ground.Bai Yun smiled and shook his head slightly."Indeed, the 'true fragrance' law is terrifying~"Zoro was so angry he didn't know what to say."The 'true fragrance' law?""Yes, how to put it, it's like how Nami and Usopp were so righteous just now, and then they were instantly bought off—that's the 'true fragrance' law.""Do you understand now?""Miss Robin is coming over. Will you fall for this law?"Bai Yun explained.Before Zoro could answer, Robin walked over, and Bai Yun and he both leaned against the railing."Are you usually this lively?"Zoro: "Yes, always."Bai Yun: "For a boring sea voyage, isn't it more fun this way?"Robin's smile became even more of a smile, but not a laugh, you know."I see."Zoro crossed his arms, still feeling that Robin must have some scheme... Compared to the others joining, Robin's integration was relatively uneventful.After "buying off" everyone except Bai Yun and Zoro, Robin was considered to have joined the Straw Hat Pirates."Navigator-san, is the log alright?""Yes, the northwest direction is correct, Big Sister Robin."The power of money; just now it was "you woman," now it's "Big Sister Robin."Luffy also ran over. "Nami, is the next island a snow island?"The difference in treatment between having money and not having money; Nami's tone instantly changed."You still want to play in the snow.""According to the Log Pose, the next island is an autumn island.""An autumn island? It's fine, I like autumn too."Bai Yun, who had nothing to do, was watering the two orange trees and grumbled, "You probably like every season, Luffy.""Hahaha, as long as I can adventure with you all, I like it all."Luffy replied with a laugh.Before Bai Yun could answer, something fell onto the second-floor railing, then dropped onto the deck, making a "drip-drop" sound."Hmm, is it raining?"Zoro said.Bai Yun bent down to pick it up. "No, this is... sawdust?""Sawdust?"Everyone looked up and saw more sawdust drifting down. A dilapidated pirate ship, more than ten times larger than the Merry, was falling upside down from the sky.Everyone's eyes widened in fright. Although Bai Yun knew what was happening, he still felt the shock.Fortunately, the ship didn't hit the Merry, but landed next to it, yet the huge waves it created made the Merry rock violently."W-wahhhhhh!!""Everyone, quickly grab onto the ship, don't fall off."Bai Yun whipped Chopper back and then urged everyone to hold on tight.Sanji then noticed more things falling from the sky and quickly warned, "Watch out, something else is falling!" Then he told Luffy to hold steady, "Luffy, quickly stabilize the ship, I can't hold on!""Alright."Luffy replied. As the ship tilted to one side, he stretched out his arms to pull up the lower side, thereby stabilizing the Merry until the waves passed.Usopp, however, sat down at this moment. "When faced with danger, one must remain calm and first close their eyes to rest.""Then open your eyes and look, what a peaceful breakfast."But in his peaceful morning, the moment he opened his eyes, a skull fell head-first into his view, wanting to "snuggle" with him."WAAAHHHHHHH!!!!!"
Chapter 188: The Legend of Sky IslandAfter Robin joined.The Straw Hat Pirates headed in the direction of the log pose as usual.Yet, sailing on the vast ocean would be boring if it were always calm.One must know that the world is wondrous.Money doesn't fall from the sky, but giant pirate ships and harmonious and enthusiastic "skeletons" do. Just as Usopp opened his eyes, one was right up against him.Usopp screamed in terror."Waaahhhhhhh!!"Fortunately, before the skeleton could smash into him, Sanji kicked it away.Facts prove that wishful thinking yields no results.When the waves subsided, the sea surface was already covered with ship wreckage... After the turmoil.Usopp and Chopper were still shaken, hugging each other for comfort.Luffy looked up at the sky, "Why? Why would a ship fall from the sky?"Zoro agreed, "But there's nothing in the sky now. Not a single flying object is visible."Satoru smiled slightly and replied, "Is there a possibility that this 'flying object' is flying too high, which is why we can't see it?"Zoro thought Satoru made sense, but before he could answer, Nami let out a gasp."What is it, Miss Nami!!"Sanji immediately asked.They saw Miss Nami looking at the log pose on her wrist, but the needle was pointing straight up at the sky."The log pose is broken; the needle is pointing up and won't move."This was the moment for the intellectual, Robin, to step forward."No, it has been pulled by an island with stronger magnetic forces, thereby changing the new record. The needle pointing upward means that the 'record' has been stolen by 'Sky Island'!!!"Even Robin, who had maintained a calm expression when facing Satoru earlier, now showed astonishment on her face... Afterward, Robinexplained the existence of Sky Island to everyone.She said it was an island, but more accurately, it was a sea in the sky.Faced with such a wondrous existence, Luffy's sense of adventure was instantly piqued, and he immediately wanted to set off for Sky Island, but he couldn't just make it happen by speaking.They had to search for clues first.Robin deduced from the skull that the ship that fell from the sky was the Saint Bliss, which set sail from the South Blue 208 years ago.Satoru expressed his admiration for her deduction skills.Meanwhile, Luffy and Usopp ventured onto the small pieces of wreckage floating on the sea surface, and they actually managed to find a map of Sky Island.Although they had a map, Nami stated that Sky Island might not necessarily exist 100%, as there were countless fake maps in the world.But seeing the three crestfallen faces, Namiimmediately emphasized that it did exist, and Sky Island must be real.But the question was, if it exists, how do they get there?The needle only pointed to the sky, but they couldn't fly, and neither could the Merry.Therefore, what they needed now was [Information].So, finally, Luffy, Zoro, and Sanji put on the bucket diving suits designed by Usopp and dove into the sea to search for [Information] on the Saint Bliss... "Wait, bring Little White along. It might be useful."Satoru raised Luffy's hand, and Little White automatically coiled around Luffy's wrist."What can Little White help with?""Alright, since you told me to bring it, I'll bring it."Luffy replied with a smile.Then, Chopper turned the pole, the rope slowly unwound, and the three sank down. Their words would travel through the opening in the bucket and be transmitted to the speaker horn above.In a sense, Usopp was also the inventor of the Straw Hat Pirates.Just as the three sank, an unexpected event occurred—not below them, but on the ship, on the surface of the sea.They heard, "Salvage~ Salvage~"The two words were sung out, and the sound spread toward them.There was also the clanging sound of cymbals.A ship appeared before them, its figurehead being a monkey holding a pair of cymbals.A man who looked like Shoujou and was also named Shoujou stood on the ship, shouting loudly.The Captain of the Shoujou Pirates."Salvage King" Shoujou makes his appearance.His bounty amount is: 23,000,000 Berries.
Chapter 189: Demon KingNami looked at the suddenly appearing Shoujou and felt somewhat speechless."Why did a Cheng Yaojin pop out at this moment?"She thought to herself, fortunately, Satoru was still here.Satoru was currently smiling as he watched the "performance" opposite him. If he knew what Namiwas thinking, he would definitely tell her not to worry, as the person opposite was just an "idiot.""That's right, the sunken ships in this sea area all belong to me. Don't you dare have any wicked ideas. Have you interfered yet?"No one asked him, but Shoujou said this to himself."That person seems to be planning to salvage something."Robin said."If I heard correctly, yes."Satoru replied, the word "salvage" was practically drilling into his mind."In that case, this is an opportunity."Nami said.Satoru: "Looking at him, I'm afraid if he manages to salvage it, he won't give us...""What are you muttering about! Eek wooh wooh!! Answer my question."Before Satoru could finish, he was interrupted by Shoujou.Nami immediately countered with a question, "May I ask you a question?"Shoujou cried out in surprise, "Didn't I ask first? Fine, ladies first, go ahead and ask."But the next words Nami spoke, Shoujou actually took as a compliment—he was very happy to be told he looked like a Shoujou."In short, are you preparing to salvage something? Can you let us witness it?"Nami said.Shoujou agreed to the beautiful woman's request, but just then, his subordinates suddenly reported that the people who went down to set up the Salvage Cradle had been beaten, and judging by the wounds, it was done by humans.And who else was currently under the sea besides Luffy and his two companions?Satoru calling him a bit silly wasn't wrong at all; he was both silly and kind, as he warned Satoru and the others."Be careful, there are people down below.""Alright, thank you for the warning."Satoru replied.Next, Shoujou began to demonstrate their salvaging technique.Meanwhile, Luffy and his companions had already explored the sunken ship.They saw Shoujou's "Salvage Cradle" spin down and anchor itself on both sides of the sunken ship.Although it was called a cradle, it bore no resemblance to one at all."Cradle deployment complete.""Good, release the Hull Hunter!"Next, they saw the figurehead of Shoujou's ship, named the "Hull Hunter," which was shaped like a monkey holding a pair of cymbals, detach from the hull and sink into the sea.Its purpose was to guide the air hose connection to the sunken ship.The final step relied on lung capacity: Shoujou blew a breath of air to clear the pipe, which was then followed by his subordinates using a crank mechanism to pump air into the wreck, making the ship float. His apprentices would then immediately use the lever to pull up the Salvage Cradle, thus lifting the entire wreck. This was the whole salvaging process... Luffy and his companions didn't know what was happening above, so they beat up all of Shoujou's men.This caused Shoujou to jump straight down.His 23 million bounty was not for show; he took down a Giant Sea Snake with a single punch.Because Shoujou and his crew had compressed air into the wreck, Luffy and his companions were fine even if they took off their water helmets.Shoujou burst in aggressively, but his anger instantly dissipated when Luffy and the others commented that he looked like a Shoujou.Satoru: I told you so. He really is an idiot. To put it nicely, he's a strange idiot.Just then, a sea turtle so massive it was comparable to a small island swallowed the sunken ship whole.We know that Shoujou's ship is eight times the size of the Merry, and yet their ship might only be one-twentieth the size of the sea turtle's head.So, how big is this sea turtle?Satoru lamented the wonders of the Pirate World; everything was more imposing than the last.The sea turtle started swimming away, but Luffyand his companions' air hoses were still connected to the Merry. If this continued, the Merry would definitely be dragged away by the sea turtle."Then, for safety, cut the air hoses first!"Nami made a decisive call.Usopp and Chopper were so scared they immediately called her a Demon.Satoru, however, very obediently cut the three air hoses."Demon King!!"Seeing that Satoru had actually cut them, Usoppand Chopper were so frightened they started shouting. Great, he was one level higher than Nami, having become the Demon King."It's fine. Xiao Bai sent me a message that Luffy and the others won't need the air hoses anymore."Satoru explained.But this was nonsense he made up. He knew Luffyand the others wouldn't need the air hoses, but Xiao Bai hadn't told him; he and Xiao Bai certainly didn't have telepathic communication.
Chapter 190: Black ShadowsThe Saint Bliss falling from the sky brought clues about Sky Island.Luffy, Zoro, and Sanji dove into the sea to search the submerged Saint Bliss for any other clues or information.And as soon as they submerged...Accidents followed one after another.First, Shoujou, the simple-minded, kind-hearted, one-track man, appeared with his Salvage Pirate Crew.Then, the Island Turtle, huge like a small island, appeared and swallowed the entire Saint Bliss, including Luffy and the two others inside, and Shoujou who had just gone down.This guy certainly had some luck on him.The air tubes for Luffy and the others were still connected to the going merry, so it was effortless for the Island Turtle to drag the going merry along.Nami immediately decided to cut the air tubes. Although it was heartless, it was indeed the best course of action right now.So Satoru also immediately cut the air tubes, scaring Usopp and Chopper into replicating the famous painting, "The Scream."Just then, the sky suddenly darkened, reaching a brightness slightly greater than true night.Following Satoru's explanation, the Island Turtle snorted out a water column, bringing Luffy and the others out, landing precisely on the going merry."Luffy! Sanji! Zoro!!""Are you guys okay!!""What happened to Luffy? Is he dead?"Usopp and Chopper immediately asked.Zoro didn't answer, instead telling them to quickly sail away from this troubled spot.Sanji answered Chopper's question: Luffy was fine, he had just swallowed too much seawater.They were all talking over each other; Satoru didn't interrupt.Usopp didn't go to steer the ship; instead, he praised them for escaping the mouth of such a gigantic sea turtle.The two of them were completely confused by this."What sea turtle?""Shouldn't it be Shoujou?""It must have been some kind of marine creature.""Although he and Luffy had a great chat later, he suddenly went berserk—just like a raging gorilla—after finding out we took things from his ship."Sanji and Zoro replied.Usopp started describing the appearance of the Island Turtle to them. In response, Satoru walked over, grabbed their heads, and made them look at the Island Turtle."What the hell is that thing!!"The two of them jumped in fright."A small green turtle that likes jellyfish, do you believe it?"Satoru said.The two shook their heads in unison. "No.""Good, your brains haven't been ruined by the water. That guy just swallowed you, man and ship, moments ago.""You were just sprayed out of its nostril.""In any case, it's good that you're safe.""And that Shoujou isn't some marine creature. He's a man who looks like an ape, named Shoujou, but he is human. Is that clear?""He runs the Salvage Pirate Crew in this area, claiming all the sunken ships here belong to him. He attacked you because you took things from the wreck.""Although he's a bit foolish, he's decent."Satoru explained the whole situation."In summary, let's leave first. If that thing sneezes, our ship will fall apart."Satoru said.Everyone nodded. Zoro went to raise the sails, and Usopp and Sanji went to the second deck to prepare to steer.Satoru was about to go wake Luffy, but just as he reached him, Luffy woke up on his own."Puhaha!!""Satoru?""Mhm."Satoru reached out and pulled him up. Xiao Bai also coiled back onto his hand."Why is it dark?""Maybe the day hasn't experienced the darkness of night, so it wanted a try."Satoru replied.Luffy: "...Mhm, I understand."Satoru smiled helplessly; he didn't even understand it himself."I don't know why either, but in any case, leaving now is the right thing to do.""Satoru is right! Hurry up and help, Luffy!!"Usopp yelled from the second deck.But Luffy's attention was drawn to the Island Turtle."What a huge sea turtle!"Just as Luffy was exclaiming, Shoujou was also sprayed out of the Island Turtle's nose, flying like Superman with his hands stretched forward."Wait a minute!""You bastards, you stole the treasure from my territory! Do you think you can just walk away like that? Ooh ooh ooh ooh!!"Shoujou landed, stepping on the left side of the going merry, which was already patched up with planks, beating his chest and yelling."He really is a gorilla.""That's right, he's a gorilla!"Sanji and Zoro griped.But Nami's focus was, "Treasure! Is there really treasure, Luffy!!""Mhm, lots of it."Luffy replied with a smile.Zoro also realized the danger, gripping his sword hilt. "Damn it, if he goes berserk on the ship..."The going merry would suffer things it shouldn't at its age, even though it had already suffered a lot.But before Zoro could draw his sword even an inch, they heard Shoujou's apprentices on his salvage ship screaming with ghost-fearing voices, trembling and collapsed on the deck, but yelling forcefully."Cap... Cap... Captain, Dan... Danger!!""Ahhhhh!!!!""What is it?!"Shoujou turned his head upon hearing the sound. Luffy and Satoru were also drawn by that soul-shaking scream and turned to look.They were instantly struck dumb with fear.Luffy looked at the massive Island Turtle with interest, but faced with the sheer size of the thing before them, Luffy's eyes were filled only with shock.Even the Island Turtle itself, whose relaxed demeanor while chewing the ship moments ago had vanished completely, stared wide-eyed and sweating at the giant object in front of it.They saw five enormous humanoid Black Shadows appear on the sea surface, each with small wing shapes on their backs and holding long spears.They were so enormous that the phrase "reaching the heavens and standing on the earth" became a physical description.How big? To describe it, the Island Turtle looked at the behemoth the way a human looks at the Island Turtle.The going merry wasn't even half the size of one of their fingernails.Although Satoru knew this was just a projection, he couldn't control his expression. This was the kind of immensity that would make someone with megalophobia "pass away" just by looking at it.Yet Xiao Bai wasn't afraid. It coiled onto Satoru's shoulder, its eyes glowing blood red, baring its fangs, and hissing at the Black Shadows. It was truly brave, being the smallest visible creature present.As the central Black Shadow raised its spear, a shout echoed from the crowd that pierced the sky."Monsters!!!"Luffy and the others instantly unleashed their potential. Satoru flew up to the second deck to take the helm, and they spun the mast so fast it left afterimages.The going merry instantly turned right and fled like the wind, moving so fast that their bodies were flying ahead while their souls trailed behind.
Chapter 191: JayaCalm waters.By the time Soul caught up, Satoru and the others had already arrived at a calm sea area. Seagulls flew in the sky, and the sea breeze brushed their faces.It was as if the astonishing scene from before had never happened... "Hoo hoo hoo!!"On the Merry, everyone was exhausted and sitting on the deck.They were still shaken by what had just happened.Sanji lit a cigarette. "What kind of cursed day is this?"Zoro still had sweat on his forehead. "First, a giant sailing ship falling from the sky..."Nami sat with her arms wrapped around her legs, hugging her small self. "The log pose is pointing to the sky and not moving..."Usopp looked up at the sky at a forty-five-degree angle. "Then a strange Shoujou salvaged the ship."Chopper let out a breath. "But then we were swallowed, ship and all, by a giant sea turtle."Robin rested her right hand on her face, saying simply, "Darkness descended."Luffy said with a wide-open mouth, "Then a 'Giant Monster' appeared, dozens of times bigger than the huge one."Satoru concluded, "All in all, it was truly a fantastical and terrifying day.""Yeah, even I was scared stiff watching it. It was terrifying."Suddenly, a voice spoke up, but the current members of the Straw Hat Pirates had already finished speaking.The Shoujou was also sitting on the Merry's deck, hugging his'small' self."…""Get off!"After three seconds of strange silence, Luffy, Zoro, and Sanji directly kicked the Shoujou flying into the sky.That guy wouldn't die; in fact, he'd be in his element in the seawater... After 'friendly sending off' the Shoujou, the Merry continued sailing on the sea.Usopp and Chopper were boasting that he had single-handedly taken down ten such giant dark shadows.It was as if he wasn't the one who had been so scared his eyes almost popped out earlier.As for Chopper's personality, he believed whatever anyone told him.Behind them, Nami's shouts rang out, furious at the pile of junk Luffy and the other two had salvaged."What exactly did you go down there to look for?""After all that, you brought back this junk, not a single clue about the Sky.""There was nothing there to begin with."Zoro replied.Sanji nodded. "You can't blame me, Miss Nami.""That ship was clearly plundered, or there was internal strife where they killed each other.""That's why useful information is even more necessary! If we're going to Sky Island next, what happened on that ship might happen to us too.""I need life-or-death information! What good are these broken swords? Cutlery? Live octopuses?""Isn't there a logbook or a sea chart or anything?!"Nami was so angry she kicked the junk.As a swordsman and a chef, Zoro and Sanji were still heartbroken since these things were already mostly ruined.Luffy also came over wearing a rusty armor. Under Nami's Armament Haki, one punch sent Luffy down, and the armor shattered.Nami angrily walked towards the second deck. Robin was sitting by the ship's edge near the stairs."Miss Nami, I brought you a pretty seashell."Sanji said with a smile, holding out a seashell."Who cares about that! Idiot!!"Nami turned her head and shouted in anger.Compared to seashells, Nami preferred Berries.Robin watched silently, still resting her right hand on her right cheek, smiling slightly."You're really working hard.""It's going to get even harder later. These idiots, and that guy who's been in the crow's nest since earlier for some reason, shooting birds? He still has the mood to shoot birds now!""We don't even know where we're going."Nami glanced at Satoru in the crow's nest and complained.Robin returned her smile. Only she knew that when she touched the Shoujou's log pose earlier, Satoruand she had thought of the same thing. After learning that she had also made a move, he withdrew his blooming arm."Here, take this."Robin handed the Jaya Island log pose to Nami."Huh? Isn't this a log pose?!"Nami said with a slight surprise."I took it from that ape brother just now."Robin explained.Nami was moved to tears. "Wuwu, only you understand me."The subtext of her words was Luffy's desire to eat grilled octopus.Nami turned, took off her shoe, and threw it at Luffy's head in one fluid motion, then turned back to look at Robin with emotion.Robin's back of the head revealed a hint of 'not really.' "Yes, a true friend is hard to find..."Nami carefully looked at the location under the log pose. "Jaya Island? That must be that Shoujou's base camp."Luffy, at this moment, had already come over with a box of takoyaki. "Jaya, are we going there?"This made Nami furious. "Isn't it up to you where we go!!""Alright, then set the rudder for Jaya Island!!"Luffy shouted.Satoru jumped down from the crow's nest.He directly picked up a takoyaki from the box in Luffy's hand."Jaya Island, I'm really looking forward to it."Nami was puzzled. "Do you know what that island is like, Satoru?"Satoru replied with a smile, "No, I'm always full of anticipation for every next island."
Chapter 192: This Is FateAfter obtaining the Jaya Island log pose, Luffy raised both hands and cheered about heading to Jaya Island next.But he suddenly realized that if they went to Jaya Island, wouldn't they be unable to go to Sky Island, because the log pose's record would be reset.Nami: "Then do you know how to get to Sky Islandnow?"Luffy (shaking his head blankly): "I don't know."Nami: "Therefore, the best method is to ask those who know."Satoru: "Hmm, I agree. Everyone has a mouth; if you don't understand, just ask."Robin: "Moreover, once we reach Jaya Island, the log won't immediately store the next island's location. We just need to leave before the log is full."Luffy: "Alright! (Raising both hands), then let's head to Jaya Island!!"And so, the going merry sailed toward the unknown island—Jaya... The sea breeze lifted slightly. Jaya Island is a Spring Island, and the air is very comfortable, but the situation on the island itself might not be.On the crow's nest, Satoru held his Sniper Rifle, seeming to be aiming at something.And Usopp was beside him, observing the front with binoculars."How is it? Have you seen anything, Usopp, Satoru?"Luffy asked, lying on the sheep figurehead and looking up.Satoru did not reply.Usopp replied while looking through the binoculars."No, I haven't seen the shadow of the island yet.""It shouldn't be that far, right? That monkey said the place we just left was his territory."Zoro said, gazing forward.Nami felt the air, "Yes, the climate has been stable since just now. We should have entered Jaya's climate zone.""Jaya must be a Spring Island."Luffy sighed, lying on the sheep figurehead."The air is so warm and comfortable.""Spring is great. The seagulls are happy too."Chopper also exclaimed, but just as he finished speaking.Of the four seagulls circling overhead, three instantly dropped down.Chopper's eyes widened in fright, "Waaahhh, the seagulls were shot down!!"Luffy: "Then let's roast them and eat them, hehe.""Shot down? Satoru, that was you, right!"Nami asked, sitting in a deck chair.Satoru didn't answer, but Zoro spoke first."Wait, I didn't hear any gunshots. Did you?"Hearing Zoro say that, everyone suddenly realized he was right. If Satoru had fired, they should have heard the gunshot.So if it wasn't Satoru, why was he holding his gun ready?Chopper retrieved the bullet from the body of the injured seagull. "Look, it is a bullet. Judging by the angle of impact, it was shot from the front of the ship. It definitely wasn't Satoru."Nami stood up, shielding her eyes with her hand to look around. "Chopper, are you saying it was shot from an island we can't even see the shadow of? How is that possible..."That was the correct deduction, but Chopper didn't know how to explain it either."Haha, what kind of [Eyesight], [Gun], and [Skill] would it take to pull that off?""It must be a coincidence...""Bang!!""Bang!!"Before Usopp could finish speaking, Satoru instantly fired a shot, then adjusted the muzzle and fired another shot with almost no pause, shooting down the remaining seagull circling above the going merry.Below, Luffy took all four seagulls, including the one Satoru had just shot down, and went to Sanji to have them cooked.Usopp, who felt the gunshot sound up close, was startled. "What's wrong, Satoru? Why did you suddenly shoot?"Satoru didn't answer, but instead murmured, "It must have missed, or maybe it was too far.""What? What missed? Didn't this seagull fall down?"Usopp, having heard his murmur, replied."I wasn't talking about Brother Bird."Usopp:??? Leaving that aside, what's with "Brother Bird"?...Meanwhile, on the roof of a house near the west coast of Jaya Island.A man wearing a strange hat, an eye patch over his right eye, with a long face, dressed in a black cloak, and constantly holding a long gun, was sitting there. It was none other than the Sniper of the Blackbeard Pirates, Van Auger.The three fallen seagulls were his doing, and he was currently sighing with emotion."How pitiful. It must hurt greatly.""Only one, and I failed to hit a vital spot.""But that is your fate. This is destiny."Just as he finished his sigh, his right eye, fitted with a monocular telescope, saw that the lucky seagull had also fallen. He knew he hadn't fired that shot; if it had fallen due to its previous injury, it wouldn't have happened so quickly.Before he could finish wondering, a bullet appeared in the telescope's field of view and grew larger and larger. As soon as he reacted, he immediately tilted his head to dodge it.After the bullet grazed past, he realized that even if he hadn't dodged, the bullet wouldn't have hit him. However, when the bullet struck the wall behind him, a violent explosion instantly occurred, blasting a large hole in the entire wall.A drop of cold sweat ran down Van Auger's face. Before the owner of the house could even start cursing, he sent him to meet God with a bullet.This was common in Mock Town.He then turned his head, looked forward, and stroked his beloved gun, "Senroku," sighing with emotion."This is fate."
Chapter 193: Mock Town"This is fate."As a Sniper, he was provoked right to his face.Could Van Auger tolerate this?He immediately turned and jumped down, leaving.He wasn't sure if that mysterious Sniper would come, so waiting was useless.He left everything to "fate.""If this is destined..."..."Whoa, the town ahead looks really nice."Luffy sat cross-legged on the sheep's head, admiring the appearance of Mock Town.Satoru said, "You can't judge things by their appearance, Luffy.""Then what should I look at?"Luffy asked.Satoru didn't know how to answer. "Anyway, don't expect too much when you see its true form.""Oh, Satoru, you're such a pessimist. Look how much this town looks like a resort."Usopp said with anticipation.Satoru returned a smile, "Maybe I'm overthinking it.""It's just that the ships docked at the port all seem to be pirate ships."Nami and Usopp followed Satoru's gaze."How can that be, Satoru? How could pirate ships dare to openly dock at the port—""Murder!"Before Nami could finish, a cry of "Murder!" came from afar, scaring Usopp, Chopper, and Nami into covering their mouths and tearing up."What kind of town is this?!"...Clang, the going merry docked at Mock Town's port.Satoru smelled the blood, gunpowder, and alcohol in the air, feeling a bit uncomfortable."No matter what kind of town it is, going up and asking is our only viable path."Luffynodded firmly, pressing his straw hat and jumping down.Zoro followed, and Satoru immediately caught up."Satoru is right, this town seems to have all sorts of people.""It looks like a pleasant town," Zoro said, truly making one wonder what his definition of pleasant was.Zoro said, truly making one wonder what his definition of pleasant was."You call this pleasant?" Satoru replied with a smile.Satoru replied with a smile.Zoro looked at him. "You seem to have something on your mind?""Something on my mind?""What could I have on my mind? Come on, let's go in and see."Satoru smiled. What could I have on my mind? How could that be? He then stepped forward to follow Luffy, and Zoro followed suit.Nami, afraid they would fight, mustered her courage and followed.Sanji also wanted to follow, but Usopp and Chopperheld him back tightly.The ship couldn't do without him... "I swear, I absolutely will not fight in this town."To make Nami stop nagging, Luffy solemnly swore."Good, it's a deal! Satoru, Zoro, you two as well."Zoro: "Mm."Satoru: "I'll try.""What do you mean 'mm' and 'I'll try'?!""If you cause trouble here, it will delay us from going to the Sky Island!"Nami said angrily.No sooner had she spoken than she heard cries of agony from ahead.A fellow wrapped in a large black cloak, looking gravely ill and on his last breath, lay on the ground.The onlookers were startled."What happened to him?""He fell off his horse.""Yes, he fell off his horse.""Cough cough!""He's spitting blood!""Yes, he's spitting blood. Can you three young brothers help me up?" Doc Q requested.Doc Q requested."You're just too lazy to get up yourself!" Zorocomplained, but still helped him onto the horse with Luffy, while Satoru didn't move.Zoro complained, but still helped him onto the horse with Luffy, while Satoru didn't move."Oh, I'm so sorry.""Finally up. I'm naturally frail and sickly.""Come on, let's go, Precious Horse."Doc Q sat on the horse's back, and just as he picked up the reins, the horse beneath him also coughed up a mouthful of blood."Even the horse is frail."Zoro and Luffy complained.Doc Q, lying on the horse's back, took out a basket of apples."A small token of my appreciation, have one.""I don't eat things of unknown origin." Zoro refused.Zoro refused.Luffy, however, casually picked one up and ate it directly. "Apples, thanks!""Hey! You..."Zoro looked exasperated, but then saw Satoru also reach out for an apple. At this moment, his bracelet turned into a thin needle, and after pricking one apple, he picked it up again."Never mind, I don't like apples."Doc Q raised an eyebrow.Luffy, still chewing the apple, said, "What? Satoru, weren't you the one who liked apples the most?"Satoru returned a smile, "I am a fickle person."As Satoru's words fell.An explosion occurred behind them.The explanation from the crowd followed."What happened?!""A strange person just gave five people an apple each, and they exploded violently after eating them.""It's a gruesome sight!"Nami and Zoro's eyes visibly widened in surprise.Nami grabbed Luffy by the neck."Spit out the apple pulp quickly, Luffy!""Cough! Cough!! I... I already swallowed it."Zoro gripped his sword hilt and shouted at Doc Q."What exactly do you want?""Cough cough! Hehe, no need to worry. The first bite of an [Exploding Apple] will shatter you to pieces.""Young man, cough cough, you're lucky."Doc Q remained slumped on the horse's back, coughing as he replied.Satoru returned a smile, "Luffy has always been lucky.""However, I don't think you're lucky today, old man."
Chapter 194: Hyena Pirates"But it seems your luck isn't so good today, old sick man."Before landing on Jaya Island, Satoru had shown off a bit to Van Auger, but he wasn't there when they landed, which was unexpected.Satoru even praised him for his good temper (being timid).Upon entering Mock Town, they encountered the second member of the Blackbeard Pirates, Doc Q.Satoru was so polite, starting with "old sick man." But after saying it, he suddenly realized, "'old sick man' isn't a swear word, right?" indicating he was just speaking the truth."Cough! Cough! Hehe, I am indeed sick, young man.""Everyone gets sick, and so will you."Doc Q replied.Satoru smiled and responded, "Indeed, it's impossible to go through life without getting sick. Minor illnesses will happen, but major ones, not so much.""However, I don't mind, as long as you don't die before me."See how polite he is."Hehe, my... cough cough... my horse, let's go."Hearing this, Doc Q said nothing more and let the horse he was riding carry him away.Satoru also praised his good temper for this... "Seriously, what is going on with this town?!"The four continued walking.Nami was completely disappointed with this town; did it really have any information?"Don't be angry, Nami."Luffy advised."What kind of talk is that? You almost died just now!"Nami retorted angrily, unable to understand how Luffy could still be so carefree."These things happen all the time.""They absolutely do not!""This town is too abnormal. I even doubt if we can get any normal, useful information."Nami was worried; nothing was easy."Don't think that way, Nami.""In a town where pirates circulate like this, there should be even more information. After all, they are all people adventuring on the high seas; it's just not that easy to obtain.""And the fastest way for pirates to get information is through taverns."Satoru comforted her.Nami nodded slightly at his words."Satoru, you're right. Then let's go to a tavern."Luffy & Zoro: "Great!"Nami: "(Punching both their heads) We're going to gather information!"And so, the four headed towards a tavern with a goal in mind.Soon after setting out, they encountered the third member of the Blackbeard Pirates."That guy is causing trouble again!"The shouts of the crowd attracted the four's attention.They turned to look.They saw a muscular man with a wrestler's mask and long purple hair standing on a rooftop.He was wearing a black vest, white trousers, black arm sleeves, and a gold championship belt with a bird totem in the center.Luffy and the others didn't recognize him.Satoru, of course, recognized him as Jesus Burgess. To put it nicely, he's confident; to put it harshly, he's an idiot, daring to clash with Garp in a fistfight and getting beaten so badly he had to wear mechanical armor."Ah, it's that fighting champion.""How many people have suffered already?""He's not even a famous pirate, I don't know what he's making a fuss about.""It's better not to provoke him."More "commentary" from the crowd.Nami nodded in agreement; it was better not to provoke him.But Luffy and Zoro were attracted by two words."Champion?!"The competitive spirit of men."Why are you two focusing on those words?!"Nami angrily dragged them away.Satoru took one last look at Burgess and muttered, "The third one."Then he followed Nami and the others... "This place is quiet, though."The four walked and walked until they reached a quiet area."I didn't expect such a paradise in this chaotic town."Nami exclaimed."A villa built on the sea, how unusual.""It should be a resort hotel."Satoru guessed."Although there's the smell of food, there's not a single person around."Luffy's nose was quite keen.Just then, a voice suddenly came from behind the four.They saw a person swaying from side to side, walking past, looking very strange."Ah! Gu... guests, you just walked in like that, it puts me in a difficult position.""Our [Tropical Hotel] has been booked by Master Bellamy and his group.""It would be terrible if Master Bellamy found out, please leave quickly!"It seemed this strange person was the hotel owner.He was anxious, but Luffy and the others were not.Nami: "We just came to look around, what's wrong?""Bellamy? Satoru, have you heard of him?"Luffy asked."No.""But looking at how scared the owner is, he must be quite famous."Satoru replied, Bellamy? Who's that?"One-Punch KO Guy," Oh, it's him."Hey! What's going on!"What one fears most comes true, and the owner was afraid.Bellamy's first mate, "Big Knife" Sarquiss, entered with a woman."What's with these dirty scoundrels!""Stop babbling and kick them out! Do you know how much money the masters paid to book this place?!"The woman, emboldened by their presence, cursed viciously.The two came before Luffy; they were quite tall."Hey, you little stinker! Get out!"Luffy was silent for a second, then turned and asked Nami."Can I punch this guy away?"
Chapter 195: But I Don't Like Eating Cherries"Can I punch this guy away?"Exploring Mock Town on Jaya Island.Luffy, Satoru, Zoro, and Nami arrived at the backyard of a tavern.They encountered Sarquiss, the 'Big Knife' of the Hyena Pirates, who had rented out the place.Facing his arrogant demeanor, Luffy's first instinct was to punch him away.Satoru agreed.He was just an insignificant nobody anyway.It didn't matter whether they hit him or not.Regardless of whether they hit him or not, Bellamywould come looking for them eventually. Hitting him now might save some trouble, though it wouldn't really count as trouble anyway.But since they had promised Nami not to cause any trouble, they held back.However, if someone attacks first and they retaliate, that's called self-defense, not causing trouble....Upon hearing Luffy's words, Sarquiss didn't get angry; instead, he laughed."Ha? You brat are really interesting.""You actually said you want to punch me away!"It was as if he were laughing at someone who didn't know their own strength and was indulging in wishful thinking.Satoru almost laughed too. Who was the one not knowing their own strength?"Looking at your pathetic, penniless state, you must be at your wits' end, right?""I'll bestow some upon you. Take it and buy some clothes."Sarquiss tossed out some paper Berries and coin Berries to humiliate Luffy and the others.Zoro and Nami's expressions sank instantly.Only Satoru and Luffy remained as usual.When they were kids traveling from the Mt. Colubo to Edge Town, plenty of people had done this to them. They were happy to take it, but even if they picked it up, they wouldn't bend over. That's one more use for Luffy's devil fruit."Ah! Can we take it?"Luffy asked with a smile.Nami pulled him away immediately."Let's go! This is so annoying!!"Zoro and Satoru followed, while Sarquiss's mockery echoed behind them."Hahahaha, you don't want it? Or are you too scared to take it? Hahahaha."But Satoru and Zoro weren't angry. Just as Sarquisshad laughed at their lack of self-awareness earlier, they couldn't help but think this guy was just a clown.Satoru knew exactly what his strength was like.Before crossing blades, Zoro looked down on everyone unless they were famous across the sea.As for Sarquiss... who was he anyway?...Tavern.After searching, Luffy and the group finally arrived at their destination - a tavern in Mock Town.As a town frequented by pirates, the tavern was naturally booming, and Satoru saw the person he wanted to see."This Mock Town was built up by pirates with money.""Because pirates spend money like water.""Although fighting and killing are everyday occurrences, they rarely harm civilians.""After all, if you have money but no one to serve you, wouldn't that be a downer?"Satoru and the others sat at the bar, and the tavern owner introduced Mock Town to them.Of the four, only Nami was listening attentively.Luffy's mind was on eating.Zoro's mind was on drinking.Satoru's mind was on the gap-toothed man next to Luffy."But I still don't like this town."Nami sighed and replied."Hahaha, thinking that just means you're a normal person.""But normal people are a rare species in this town.""It takes four days for the log pose to fill up.""So, as long as you don't cause any trouble before then, you can leave safely.""I'm afraid even if we don't provoke others, others will come to provoke us.""It seems like trouble is already knocking on our door."Satoru said suddenly.The tavern owner fell silent.Nami sighed, "Four days? I can't even stay for two."She suddenly remembered to ask about information regarding Sky Island, so she shouted, but two other voices rang out at the same time."Say, old man...""Hey! Old man!""Hey! Old geezer!!"(Friendly reminder: Although Blackbeard looks old, he is only 40, and currently 38.)"Hmm, what is it?"The owner asked while wiping a glass.Luffy and Blackbeard spoke at the same time.Luffy: "This cherry pie is terrible!!"Blackbeard: "This cherry pie is delicious!!""Hmm?""Hmm?"The two of them glared at each other, then picked up their mugs and downed their drinks.Luffy: "Why is this drink so good!!"Blackbeard: "Why is this drink so terrible!!"Satoru watched silently, thinking that they were truly destined rivals; everything they liked and disliked was the exact opposite.Tapping the bar counter, Satoru seemed to be thinking about something."I'm not a chef anyway, so it doesn't matter to me."The owner continued wiping the glass and replied indifferently.Luffy and Blackbeard stared at each other, sparks flying between them."Is your tongue broken!""Is your brain broken!!""Satoru, you're a chef, and you ate that cherry pie too. You tell him!"Luffy shoved the microphone towards Satoru's mouth.The hand holding the pie suddenly froze."I think it's okay..."Blackbeard: "Hahaha, see? This little brother has taste..."Satoru: "But I don't like eating cherries."Blackbeard: "..."Eating cherry pie but not liking cherries... hmm, that makes sense.
Chapter 196: Something's Wrong, Very WrongThe progress of exploring Sky Island intelligence in Mock Town is currently: 0.Satoru had completed half of what he wanted to do... "But I don't like cherries."Satoru was eating cherry pie but said he didn't like cherries.Even Blackbeard Teach choked and glared at him and Luffy."Two brats with something wrong with their tongues."Luffy ignored him and said to the boss."Uncle, pack me 50 pieces of meat.""Uncle, pack me 51 cherry pies.""... (The dispute began)""Ah... then I want 52 pieces of meat.""How unlucky, I'll change it to 53 cherry pies!""No, change the meat to 54 pieces.""Change it to 55 pies.""60 pieces of meat!""70 pies!""80 meat!""90..."Luffy and Blackbeard wouldn't give in to each other, but the boss was the happiest, replying with a big smile, "Alright, alright, alright."But when it came to the breaking point, the two of them immediately rolled up their sleeves."Bastard, do you want to fight!!"Luffy stood on the chair, confronting Blackbeard at eye level.And when the two of them stood up and slammed the table, Nami also stood up."Luffy, you promised me! And we don't have that much money to buy meat, we're not out shopping."(The boss, whose smile instantly vanished): Why do your words sound so cold?The two calmed down a bit, and Blackbeard asked."Are you a pirate?""Yes."Luffy answered concisely."Bounty?""30 million.""You're only worth 30 million? You're talking nonsense!""I'm not lying! Everything I said is true!"The first confrontation between the two future Emperors was just a war of words."Stop arguing!"Nami and Zoro couldn't help but shout.As for Satoru, he was still eating. He really didn't like pie; it was too sweet."Fighting is not allowed in my shop.""Hey big guy, your order is ready, 50 cherry pies, take them and leave!"The boss came out from the back kitchen, holding a bag of cherry pies and handed them to Blackbeard.He'd have something to brag about later, calling one of the Four Emperors a 'big guy' to his face.Blackbeard also listened to the advice, or rather, given his nature, he felt there was no need to fight. But if he knew now that Luffy had a 100 million bounty, it might be different... "Is the pirate with the straw hat here?"One leaves, another enters.Blackbeard left.Bellamy arrived.What a downgrade.At least, that's how Satoru felt.As for the others."It's Be... Bellamy!""Are you Straw Hat Luffy, whose head is worth 30 million?""And that Long-Haired Bai Yun, who looks softer than a woman and is worth 25 million? Your hair is indeed quite long."Bellamy crossed his arms and observed Luffy and Satoru's backs.His words were practically dancing on Satoru's last nerve. If Satoru hadn't promised Nami (reason one) and didn't want to reveal his strength in front of Blackbeard (reason two), he would have already blown him away.More than anyone, Satoru wanted to kill Blackbeardright now.Zoro raised an eyebrow. He felt that Satoru was acting strange today. Usually, anyone who spoke to him like that would already be on the ground groaning. Why was he still leisurely drinking soup today?Something's wrong, very wrong."What do you want?"Luffy turned around, resting his elbows on the bar, leaning back as he asked Bellamy.Zoro still had his wine glass to his lips."He's not here for good, Luffy."Nami, meanwhile, recognized the name Bellamy as the group who had just booked the hotel. "Bellamy... isn't that the guy who booked the hotel?"Inside the tavern, whispers immediately started, mainly about the surprising bounties of Luffy and Satoru.Bellamy walked directly to where Blackbeard had been sitting. Luffy looked at his height and couldn't help but complain."Why do I keep running into tall guys today?""I want a glass of the most expensive wine, and whatever this brat likes, give him one too."Bellamy said."Alright." Even though he knew something was about to happen, the boss remained calm, probably used to it."Look, it's those people."Nami whispered.Behind them, Sarquiss and the others also entered the tavern.Soon, the boss served two glasses of wine. Luffypicked up his glass with a grin, "What, he's a good guy after all."Then he tilted his head back and chugged it down.Bellamy took this opportunity to press down on Luffy's head, slamming it onto the bar with force.With a bang, a dent instantly appeared on the bar.Zoro drew his sword and placed it under Bellamy's neck.As for Satoru, before Luffy's head hit the bar, he spun his chair a few times and moved to Nami's side, continuing to enjoy his dessert.Satoru thought, 'I'm being good about this. If Shanksor Ace were here, they'd definitely mock Luffy a bit. But Bellamy shouldn't expect to leave this tavern in one piece either.'"What do you want, you little bastard!"Bellamy glared at Zoro and asked.Zoro's face was grim. "That's what I should be asking you.""Wait, Zoro, we haven't found any useful information yet..."Nami quickly said."Less talk! I'm just accepting a challenge!"Zoro directly interrupted her.Bellamy took a few steps back. By then, Luffy had also gotten up, wiping things off his face."Very good, you've got guts."To the other onlookers, these words were a prelude to a fight."Did you hear that? That brat is going to fight Bellamy!""Hahaha, let them fight, let them fight."Bellamy also burst out laughing."Hahaha, this isn't a fight, it's a test. Let me see what you're made of, brat."Just then, Nami suddenly shouted."Wait, Luffy."Then she turned to the tavern owner and asked."Uncle, we want to go to Sky Island. Do you know any clues?"But as soon as she spoke, she was met with roaring laughter."Hahahahaha.""Sky Island? Give me a break, hahahahaha.""Hahaha...""What's so funny? The log pose really points to the sky, look!"Nami retorted angrily.But all she got in return was more ridicule."Hahahaha, that just proves your log pose is broken! Hahaha."Nami's face turned beet red, filled with both shame and anger.
Chapter 197: People's DreamsSince entering Mock Town, a fight was about to break out.Nami finally asked the bar owner for clues about Sky Island.But to her surprise, her words were met with a roar of laughter... "Hey, hey, hey, I can't stand it, where did you bumpkins come from?""You actually believe such an old-fashioned legend? That there are islands in the sky.""The mysterious and ever-changing currents on the Grand Line have been deciphered one by one, and one of them is the 'Knock-Up Stream'.""Those ships that fall from the sky are just those unlucky ones that were swept up to the sky by the Knock-Up Stream, and then fall back down.""In the past, ignorant navigators who saw ships falling from the sky fabricated the idea of Sky Island.""Saying, perhaps there's another world above the sky... Hahaha, there's a reason behind all strange phenomena.""The reason for so-called 'dreams' has now been revealed.""How disappointing. I originally wanted to test you and make you a crew member of the 'New Era'.""But I didn't expect you to just be a deluded idiot.""Listen up!!! The era of pirates dreaming of treasure is over!!"Buggy: Say that again, you bastard!!!"What Golden City, Emerald City, the great treasureONE PIECE."When Bellamy said this, Satoru's eating slowed down slightly. It seemed he and Luffy had swapped roles.Satoru paused because he was interested in the "Emerald City" Bellamy mentioned.It seemed he had never heard of it before, nor had he seen it. Hmm, he needed to learn more about it.While he was thinking, Bellamy continued to rant."There are always some fools whose eyes are fixated on 'treasure dreams', ignoring the immediate benefits, even though they have the strength to dominate the ocean!!""They die for illusory fantasies, and people will say, 'Those guys lived in their dreams from beginning to end, how happy.'""Puh hahahahaha!!! Isn't that the biggest mockery for a homeless dog?""I feel nauseous whenever I see those daydreamers!!"After Bellamy finished speaking, he picked up a wine bottle and violently struck Luffy.But daydreaming...Was he not talking about himself?Having the ability to dominate the ocean?If this isn't a daydream, what is?"Luffy!!" Nami shouted anxiously.Zoro chose to remain silent, and Satoru chose to eat. Only by choosing to eat would he not draw his gun now.Luffy lay sprawled on the ground.Others gasped, lamenting how easily Luffy was defeated."It's because of people like you that you hold back us true pirates!"Bellamy cursed.Seeing this, others chimed in, throwing things at them."Bellamy is right!!""Get out of here!!!""Get out of this town!!"Luffy sat up. Nami, who had been trying to stop them from fighting, now wished they would fight."Luffy, Zoro, if not now, when! Quickly beat them to a pulp!!"But Luffy said, "Zoro, we absolutely cannot fight this battle."Because there was no reason to strike.Bellamy mocking their dreams?Could a fight prove the true existence of Sky Island?Only those with a guilty conscience would get agitated at this time.If you say no, then I'll show you, that's what true strength is.Winning a fight proves I'm stronger than you, not that my dream is more than just a dream.Those who mock others' dreams are weaklings and cowards. If so, what reason did Luffy have to act?My dream is my business.Others' doubts are their business. I live only for myself, and I trust my own feelings.At least, Satoru, who sat there while Luffy and the others were beaten without fighting back, thought so, and that's how he restrained himself from drawing his gun.No matter how much the opponent hit or mocked, Luffy and Zoro remained standing without fighting back.Bellamy should be glad he didn't hit Satoru, because if he had, Satoru definitely wouldn't have held back.As Bellamy spat a mouthful of wine on the two, then followed with a kick and a punch, Luffy and Zoro fell.Nami remained perplexed, "Luffy!! Zoro!!!"Sarquiss took notice of her, and Satoru."Hey, girl, and that tender kid, I've never tried this before.""Following those two good-for-nothings won't end well. Name your price."He was truly dancing on a minefield. Satorusqueezed the spoon so hard that his fingerprints showed, almost wanting to turn around and shoot him dead."Hmph, you talk big. You want to buy us?"Nami glared back."Yes, name your price. You'll be happy over here, I guarantee.""Too bad this lady and he don't fancy you nobodies!"Nami retorted directly."Hahaha, what an overconfident woman. That Long-Haired kid has a 25 million bounty, you just have a pretty face, hahaha.""So their entire group are fools!! Hahahaha."Nami's words once again made the people in the bar burst into laughter.Satoru put down his cutlery."Oh my, I'm very full. It's been a long time since I've eaten this much. Thank you for the meal."Then he turned and helped Luffy up. "Nami, Zoro is up to you.""Alright, be smart, you little bastard. Get these pieces of trash out of here."Bellamy said, but Satoru pretended not to hear.Nami, fuming, helped Zoro up, biting her lip, her eyes full of grievance.But as the four of them walked out of the bar, they heard a voice from the street."Sky Island truly exists."They turned their heads and saw Blackbeard."Gah hahahaha, the cherry pie here is truly unparalleled.""Weren't you just...""Little girl, what else don't you understand? They were clearly the winners of that fight just now."Blackbeard said to the four of them.Hearing this, Luffy and Zoro broke free from Namiand Satoru and stood on their own."You have a sharp tongue, you're a bold woman.""And you, Long-Haired kid, clearly full of killing intent, yet you suppressed it. That's also remarkable."Blackbeard praised Nami and Satoru."To achieve great things, one must endure.""Gah hahahaha, I completely agree with that statement."Blackbeard replied with a laugh. Indeed, no one was better at enduring than him. However, he clearly didn't know at this moment that the endurance Satoru spoke of was directed at him.Taking a bite of pie, Blackbeard continued."The 'New Era' those guys talk about is bullshit.""What do you mean the era of pirates searching for treasure is over?""Gah hahahaha!!""People's dreams will never end!!!!""Am I right!"
Chapter 198: Dream Maniac"A man's dreams will never end!!"Blackbeard roared these words, echoing in the ears of everyone on the street.Some were deeply shocked, while others cursed him for suddenly going crazy.And some were indifferent.Bai Yun belonged to the third group.Because he knew Blackbeard would say such words.The first time he saw this scene, he thought Blackbeard would be a positive character, but he never expected... However, he had to admit that Blackbeard was the true pirate.He would stop at nothing to achieve his goals, even killing comrades he had lived with day and night, and enduring for over twenty years.Only someone who was absolutely clear about what they wanted could utter such words.Moreover, in the world of pirates, how does one distinguish between good and evil?It's merely a distinction set by those with power... "As long as you lock onto your goal, let others laugh if they want to.""Fighting doesn't always have to be with fists.""Gahahahahaha."That's what he said.After saying that, every subsequent appearance of this guy involved fighting."To be able to say such words, Uncle, your experiences must not have been easy."Bai Yun replied."Gahahahahaha, it's just a spontaneous reflection on life."Blackbeard replied with a laugh.Luffy didn't speak, silently watching Blackbeard, nobody knew what he was thinking."Let's go… Luffy… Luffy?"Luffy didn't react to Nami's call.Blackbeard stood up himself, "Oh? Did I interrupt you? Are you in such a hurry to leave?""If only I could go, to Sky Island!""Gahahahahaha."Laughing like that, Blackbeard turned and walked away, drinking his alcohol.Luffy also turned around, the two of them walking in opposite directions.Nami immediately followed."Hey, that guy just mentioned Sky Island, maybe there's a clue.""Who exactly is he...?""I don't know, but it's not that guy..."Luffy replied.Nami's small head was filled with confusion."?""Not that guy? Then who is it...?""It's those guys...""Probably."Zoro and Luffy walked ahead, replying."What do you mean?""That guy had companions just now? Where are they!?"Nami understood Zoro's meaning."Zoro and Luffy mean that guy can't be alone; he must have companions."Bai Yun explained."What do you mean he'll have companions?"Nami still didn't understand.Bai Yun returned a smile."It means people will willingly follow him.""Compared to Bellamy in the tavern, if that guy just now is an opponent, he's truly terrifying.""Let's go, Luffy and the others are about to disappear.""But you guys go ahead, I have something to inquire about, don't worry about me."Bai Yun patted Nami's back, signaling her to catch up with Luffy and the others."Hmm, ah! What..."By the time Nami reacted, Bai Yun had already vanished in a flash."Honestly!""What kind of riddles are these bastards playing!!!""Wait for me, Luffy, Zoro!!!"..."L-Luffy!""Luffy! Zoro!!!"The four returned to the port, and Usopp on the ship shouted in surprise when he saw the injuries on Luffy and Zoro.Usopp: "What happened? You're so injured, what happened? And where's Bai Yun?"Sanji: "Miss Nami! Miss Nami!! Are you alright!!!"Chopper: "Doctor!!! Doctor!!!!"Usopp slapped Chopper on the back of the head, "You are one, hurry up and treat them!!"..."Did you run into some giant monster?""And where's Bai Yun?"Usopp asked."No, it was pirates, it's all over now.""Bai Yun... Where's Bai Yun!? Bai Yun is gone!!!""What are you yelling about!!"Nami punched Luffy, "Bai Yun said he was going to ask about something.""And what's over! I'm still angry, it's infuriating.""What the hell!! A man should beat those who provoke him far away, no!! He should flatten this annoying town and everyone in it!!"Nami shouted, raising her hands in anger."That's not what you said at first."Zoro retorted."Before was before, now is now, if you nag again I'll kick you to death!!"Zoro once again proved that you shouldn't provoke an angry woman; now is the stage where whatever she says is right."How can someone who's completely unharmed be so angry?"Usopp was very confused."How would I know?"Luffy also didn't understand why Nami was angry."By the way, did you find any clues about Sky Island?"After tying the bandage on Luffy's arm, Chopper asked, and his question immediately hit Nami's nerve, making her jump with a dark expression.After Nami explained, she said that when she mentioned Sky Island, everyone in the tavern burst into laughter, and even now, just thinking about it made her feel ashamed.At this moment, Robin and Bai Yun happened to return.Bai Yun also brought several ice creams."Why is it so noisy?""Ice cream!!!"Luffy and Chopper immediately got starry eyes."Everyone gets one, help yourselves.""Miss Nami, don't be angry anymore.""How can I not be angry? Oh, it's all your fault, Robin. If you hadn't said Sky Island really existed, we wouldn't have been laughed at."Nami said, puffing out her cheeks.Usopp came up to Robin, "You just ignore her for now, the main thing is to stay away from her.""Hmm... By the way, Robin, what did you go do? And Bai Yun? Was it just to buy ice cream?"Luffy asked while eating ice cream, and Chopper, also eating ice cream nearby, widened his eyes, curiously awaiting the answer.Robin pulled a map from her clothes."I went to buy clothes and also to inquire about Sky Island.""A treasure map?"Luffy took the map and opened it; an X was marked on the map."No, it seems like a normal map, where is that drawn on it?"Usopp asked."This island.""The town on the left is Mock Town, where we are now.""And on the opposite shore is that X, do you see it?""I heard an old man lives there, he was exiled from Jaya, and his name is Mont Blanc Cricket.""He's a dream maniac, aren't you birds of a feather
Chapter 199: Emerald City"He's a dreamer, just like you guys, aren't you?"Robin brought information about Sky Island, but it wasn't about Sky Island itself, but an old man.However, with the information Luffy and the others currently had, the only path was to visit this 'dreamer' old man."Alright, let's go see this old dreamer!"At Luffy's command, the going merry set its course."Oh, right, Satoru, you haven't said what you went to do yet?"Handing the map to Usopp and telling him to steer, Luffy's gaze returned to Satoru."Oh, I went to inquire about the 'Golden City' and 'Emerald City' that idiot mentioned.""Golden City, Emerald City!""That sounds like an adventure!"Luffy said excitedly upon hearing this.And speaking of this, Nami was no longer sleepy."I was so angry just now, I forgot about those two places that scoundrel mentioned.""Golden City, Emerald City, they sound like places with money.""Satoru, you really know what's important. So, what information did you get?"With her eyes turned into money symbols and rubbing her hands, Nami looked expectant, as if she hadn't been fuming just moments ago."There are still more good people in the world. After my friendly questioning, I also received their friendly answers.""As the name suggests, Golden City is all gold, and Emerald City is all emeralds."Satoru replied with a smile.Nami's smile instantly vanished; it was a pity she didn't learn how to change her expression."What's the difference between asking and not asking?""Golden City is all gold, Emerald City is all emeralds, isn't that nonsense?""I haven't finished yet.""Regarding Emerald City, there are three more sentences.""The Emerald Giant gazing at its counterpart is the entrance to the city.""The Emerald Tree, the heart of the Emerald City.""The Emerald Crown stands on the Emerald Tree, and only those with a pure heart and a heart of jadeare worthy to wear the Emerald Kingdom."Satoru slowly recounted the information about the Emerald City he had obtained from an old beggar."I bought him three bottles of wine before he would talk. Can I get reimbursed?"Satoru asked. Three bottles of wine had made his already meager personal stash even worse."Don't talk about these irrelevant things...""Emerald Giant... gazing... entrance..."Nami avoided Satoru's reimbursement question, thinking, 'Dream on, no one has ever taken money from me,' repeating the information Satoru had given about the Emerald City, but then."What is all this? There's no information about where Emerald City is.""Then I don't know, it's fine, everything depends on fate.""As for Golden City, we'll get information when we find that crazy old dreamer.""I don't know the story of that big liar very well; we'll find out when we ask him."Satoru said with a smile, then, without waiting for Nami's reply, he flipped onto the crow's nest, put on his eye patch, and ignored everyone."I need to conserve my energy for tonight, please don't disturb me."Nami looked up at him, then down at Luffy picking his nose, and her anger flared up again."What are you looking at!""I'm so mad."Then she turned and left.Luffy looked at her retreating back, indicating his innocence. What did I do... Jaya Island, Beast Bay.The going merry headed towards Cricket's house.Just as Luffy complained."Why do we always encounter weirdos as soon as we set sail?"A medium-sized sailboat with a gorilla skull painted on it, and a snot-nosed gorilla as its figurehead, appeared in front of the going merry. A large tree was clearly visible on the ship.Luffy, Sanji, Usopp, and Chopper stood at the bow.Usopp, seeing another gorilla, thought Shoujou had returned for revenge."It doesn't look like that ape, Usopp."Sanji said."Anyway, we saw him, that ape really is from this island. We saw him come back."Usopp and Chopper quickly said.Luffy, however, seemed indifferent, "Is that so? Well, I wouldn't mind knocking him flying again."Just then, a voice came from the opposite ship."Ooh-hoo-hoo-hoo! Brothers over there, what are you mumbling about?!""Hmph, I thought it was some gang, it made my heart pound."The Great Director of the Gorilla Pirates, Masira's brother, Gorilla, appeared.Neither of the two brothers was normal, whether in appearance or personality, but overall, they were two clear-headed, foolish, single-minded good people."You look like a gorilla, hey, what kind of species are you?"Luffy asked, purely out of curiosity, with no offense intended, although his words were full of offense."Are you an idiot? Of course, I'm human."Gorilla replied. It seemed he wasn't as proud of looking like a gorilla as Shoujou was."Ooh-hoo-hoo!! You are too bold!! How dare you disrespect the Great Director!!"Gorilla's subordinates angrily shouted.Their diving exploration outfits, how should I put it, were similar to the Sperm Monster in One-Punch Man."Never mind, never mind. It looks like you're pirates, right?""I suppose you also know that Crocodile, one of the Shichibukai, has fallen."Gorilla suddenly mentioned Crocodile. Luffy and the others on the other side not only knew, but they were the ones who brought Crocodile down.Crocodile still found Satoru's smile disgusting."In terms of strength, I should take his place. This position makes my heart pound.""Huh? You want to join the Shichibukai?"Sanji asked in disbelief."Huh? You probably don't know how amazing I am. Let me tell you, I haven't cut my hair in 25 years since I was born!"Gorilla said proudly. To be honest, he didn't look 25, but rather 52.