Chapter 853: Pirate AllianceThe Yeti Cool Brothers received Caesar's order to stop the squad searching for Kin'emon. Of course, they weren't the only ones; after dealing with them, they would also deal with others.They launched a sneak attack with poison gas bombs, but Little Bai merely remarked, "This poison gas is really sweet!"In no time, he instantly defeated the Yeti Cool Brothers and then called out to Law, who was hiding, telling him that Satoru and the others were still waiting for him at the research facility ruins.Law nodded in understanding, then departed, heading towards the ruins.Little Bai, meanwhile, stood watching the three fallen figures.Carry them? Too lazy.Leave them? Little Little Bai would be angry.Fortunately, Little Bai simply sat down and waited for them to wake up... "There seems to be some movement over there..."At the research facility ruins, Luffy noticed movement in the distance, which was clearly caused by Little Bai's battle with the Yeti Cool Brothers."It's Little Bai and the others. Don't worry about them, they're fine."Satoru replied.Luffy grinned, "Hehe, you're right, they're really strong."Satoru guessed it was those two giant Yetis—he'd forgotten their names—but with Little Bai there, they probably wouldn't be able to reach this side.And since the Yetis had been dispatched, Law should be arriving soon.Speak of the devil, and he shall appear.No sooner had Satoru thought it than Law arrived, traveling quite quickly using his ability."Trafalgar Law!""Law!!"Two people were very excited by Law's appearance.One was Luffy, who thought he finally wouldn't be so bored.The other was Brownbeard, who thought Law had come to rescue him!!"Law! Have you come to save me?!! Quickly defeat these guys!! How dare they slander master!!"Brownbeard shouted.Law didn't react to this, merely glancing at him.Satoru flashed, hovering in front of Brownbeard. He pressed his thumb against his middle finger, flicking Brownbeard's forehead. With a subtle vibration, Brownbeard's eyes instantly swirled into spirals, and he fainted."Good, now it's easier to talk."Satoru landed next to Luffy and said to Law."I told you, Luffy, he would come."Satoru said, putting his hand on Luffy's shoulder."Haha, so, Trafalgar Law, what do you have to say?"Law couldn't see through Satoru. How did he know Law had something to say? Did he know his plan?For some reason, Law always felt unable to calmly deal with Satoru.Seeing Law's silence, Satoru thought he should offer some explanation."The New World was originally a place where the Four Emperors stood in rivalry. Although only three Emperors remain now, the situation is still relatively stable.""As pirates newly entering the New World, there are only two ways to survive: either join the ranks of a Four Emperor, or constantly challenge them.""I imagine what you want to say, Law, is to invite Luffy to form a pirate alliance, isn't it?""That guess isn't difficult.""So, am I right?"Satoru maintained his smile.Law was completely seen through, making him feel even more uncomfortable, but he couldn't show it."Yes, as... you said, I came to propose an alliance with the Straw Hat Captain.""...Alliance?"Luffy didn't quite understand the word."It means joining forces to defeat enemies together."With Satoru's explanation, Luffy understood.Before Luffy could speak, Satoru continued, "Whether Luffy agrees or not is his decision, but my personal opinion is to agree."Law was curious, "Why?"Satoru stated, "Because compared to other Supernovas, you're more pleasing to the eye, and what I said about Gaara at the auction house wasn't a joke."Not a joke?So, he was serious?!!This instantly flustered Law. "You... what do you mean? I..."Satoru suppressed a laugh; teasing people was fun. "That's right, I wasn't joking. I do have a... nickname like Gaara.""It's a pretty good name, isn't it?"Luffy: "Eh? Satoru, you have that nickname? How come I didn't know?"Law: "..."...Law naturally didn't pick up on Satoru's words, steering the conversation back to business. As for whether Satoru really had the name "Gaara"? He didn't believe it one bit."You just happened to come here, didn't you?""However, this island holds a crucial key, one that could turn the New World upside down...""Straw Hat Captain, you wouldn't be content to be subservient to others, would you?"Luffy answered without hesitation, "Yeah, I want to be Captain!""Alright, let's get back to the topic of the alliance.""If you and I join forces, we might be able to...""I have a strategy to take down one of the Four Emperors!"Luffy hadn't reacted yet.Nami was the first to panic. They had already provoked Big Mom, one of the Four Emperors, and now this!"Don't talk nonsense! I don't know what you're planning!""But absolutely not, Luffy, don't fall for this guy's trick!!""That's right!! Luffy, that's a Four Emperor!!"Usopp also advised.Satoru thought for a moment but didn't speak.Law explained, "I didn't say we could defeat a Four Emperor immediately, but that if we follow the plan, we will definitely find an opportunity!""What do you say, Straw Hat Captain?"Nami also remained silent, looking at Luffy with everyone else, waiting for his opinion. If Luffy made up his mind, they couldn't change it.Luffy thought for a moment and only asked, "Which of the Four Emperors are you talking about?"Law paused slightly, then answered."Kaido of the Beasts, the strongest creature in the world.""The success rate against him... you can consider it infinitely low."Luffy, however, seemed slightly disappointed by this answer. "I was hoping to fight Shanks and them first, but never mind."Satoru heard this and smiled helplessly, thinking, "In a sense, without considering numbers, Shanks and his Red Hair Pirates are the hardest to fight, after all, they're a dual-Emperor crew. But if Luffy wants to fight, then so be it."Beckman: I'm dying of filial piety."Then it's settled, deal!""We're forming an alliance!"Luffy made the final decision."Eh?! You're too hasty, Luffy!!"But everyone else didn't quite agree.Usopp felt that forming an alliance with a terrorist like Law, who could casually chop people into pieces without killing them and even swap bodies, carried a huge risk.Chopper also thought it was too early to target a Four Emperor; they couldn't win.Robin calmly analyzed, "Luffy, I respect your decision, but betrayal is common in pirate alliances. You're always too quick to trust others, which might not be suitable for you."As for betrayal, Kid has a lot of experience, or rather, he's about to gain a lot of experience.
Chapter 855: Then We'll Go Back On Our WordLuffy, who believed Law wasn't a bad person, agreed to the pirate alliance proposed by Law.But everyone else disagreed! Fighting the Four Emperors!! Is this a death wish?!Robin pointed out that betrayal is common among pirate alliances and subtly implied that Luffy is too trusting (pure and naive), so perhaps an alliance wasn't suitable for Luffy.In response, Luffy turned directly to Law and asked, "Will you betray me, Trafalgar Law?"Law didn't expect Luffy to ask so directly. Regardless of whether he would or not, he certainly couldn't say yes."No."Usopp was so angry he turned into a shark face, "You believe whatever he says?!""You're an idiot!!"Luffy's eyes narrowed into a smile, and he exhaled a puff of white air, "Anyway, a 'Pirate Alliance' sounds like a lot of fun, doesn't it?""I think Trafalgar Law is a good person. Even if he's not, there's nothing to worry about because I have you comrades who've trained for two years by my side!!"This was Luffy's charm; he could express his thoughts without pretense, an unintentional display of high emotional intelligence, instantly winning everyone over."Oh, Luffy~ That's so embarrassing to hear.""Well, it's the truth, we are reliable.""Alright... alright, leave it to me. If Zoro and the others are scared, I'll handle them too."These three sentences, each with a distinct personal style, were spoken by Chopper, Franky, and Usopp, respectively.Satoru hoped for the alliance. If things followed the original development, relying on the Straw Hat Pirates to deal with two Four Emperors, even with him and Xiao Bai, it would be hard to say.All in all, forming an alliance is a good thing. He had a pretty good impression of Law.As for what Chopper said, their strength was indeed insufficient.It seems he needed to put the devil fruit awakening training on the agenda.But, Sun God Nika... the matter of the divine vessel hasn't been clarified. After the events on this island are over, he needs to ask Xiao Bai for clarification. It wouldn't be too late to tell Luffy after confirming there's no danger... "So, the alliance is settled.""Please take care of us, Law."Satoru maintained a polite smile.Law always felt uncomfortable facing Satoru, "Hmm...""Oh! Right, one more thing.""These children have all undergone Caesar's human gigantification experiments and eaten candies laced with NHC10. Once they crave it, they become violent. You're a doctor, do you have any solutions?""We want to help them, right, Luffy."Satoru brought the topic to the children, which was also something everyone cared about."That's right. Since we brought them out, we should help them all the way."Luffy affirmed Satoru's words.Law looked at the children tied to pillars, a measure to prevent them from waking up and going berserk again."Human gigantification, this is an experiment the World Government has pursued for hundreds of years.""It's probably to create Soldiers. If they could mass-produce giant Soldiers at will, the government would be invincible."Satoru nodded. This was indeed a difficult problem. Even the children had such terrifying strength when they grew large, let alone adults."Caesar wants to complete this experiment to make Vegapunk and the World Government look at him with new eyes... However, the process hasn't been smooth.""Are you really planning to save them? A bunch of kids with unknown backgrounds."Regarding Law's question, Satoru stated,"Law, your thinking is correct; that's how pirates should think. But we aren't orthodox pirates. We are just ourselves; we do whatever our hearts desire. So, I'm glad I have no interest in murder or arson.""You..."Law couldn't find words to answer Satoru. He had never met anyone like this before.Nami was the one who insisted on rescuing the children. Just as Sanji couldn't ignore Kin'emon, she couldn't ignore the children. She wouldn't leave the island until the children's problem was resolved.Law raised an eyebrow, "So you're staying on the island alone?"Nami didn't speak, but Luffy spoke for her, "How could we abandon our comrades? Since Nami and Chopper want to do this, I'll do it too.""Also, Sanji wants to help the samurai get his body back. Since we've formed an alliance, you should help out."Luffy's words made Law realize that this alliance he formed might be a bit unreliable.Usopp kindly explained that Luffy's idea of an alliance and Law's idea were probably different. If Law wanted to take the lead, it would be impossible."Aside from being stubbornly single-minded, his obstinacy is extraordinary! As for his capriciousness, it probably already rivals that of a Four Emperor."Law was choked up again. What could he say when they put it like that?"But the things your comrades brought up have nothing to do with the alliance..."Indeed, the alliance was to take down Kaido. Saving the children had nothing to do with taking down Kaido."However... forget it, I understand."Law still compromised."You'll have to figure out the samurai situation yourselves.""I'll go investigate what kind of medicine the kids were given. Who's the ship doctor? Come with me. We need to keep this from Caesar.""That's me."Chopper hopped in front of Law, standing there like a small figurine.Law fell silent again, but it was fine; a small stature would make it easier to move around.Law then reminded Luffy and the others to be careful. Caesar wanted to deal with them and Smoker to get the children back.As the culprit of the explosion incident four years ago, if this place were exposed, he would have nowhere to hide, so he would relentlessly pursue anyone on the island.Satoru's smile held a hint of disdain, "If he dares to come, isn't that just an opportunity to catch him?""Our target is a Four Emperor; why should we be afraid of just one person like him?"Law paused for a moment before replying, "Confidence is good. I'm just reminding you.""Caesar is a Logia-type Gas-Gas devil fruit user. Those without Haki shouldn't get close to him. He's not an ordinary scientist.""Hmm, among us, those who can use Haki are me, Satoru, Sanji, Zoro, and you, right?""And Xiao Bai."Satoru added.Luffy nodded."Right, right, right, Xiao Bai is also very powerful."Law said, "That's enough. The ship doctor and I will return to the lab first."Luffy nodded, then confirmed one last time, "So, we just need to 'kidnap' that 'master' with you, right?"Law nodded, "That's right."Nami was curious, "Then, after kidnapping him, who do we demand ransom from?"Law mysteriously stated, "The goal isn't money, but to create chaos.""Before succeeding, discussing future matters is meaningless. For now, let's focus our energy on capturing Caesar.""After it's done, I'll tell you the detailed plan. However, once Caesar is successfully kidnapped, the situation will drastically change naturally.""By then... it'll be too late to regret.""If you want to go back on your word now, there's still a chance."Law spoke seriously, testing Luffy and their resolve."Okay, then we'll go back on our word."Satoru's words suddenly drifted over.This caught Law off guard."What..."Before he could say another word, Satoru's eyes curved like crescent moons, and he smiled."Just kidding."Law: "...""This matter, listen to Luffy."Satoru handed the microphone back to Luffy.Luffy's expression was calm, also with a faint smile."No problem, I understand. We will form an alliance with you."
Chapter 85: The devil fruitLaw mysteriously stated that once Caesar was successfully kidnapped, the resulting changes would be drastic and irreversible, but Luffy still smiled faintly, expressing his indifference."No problem, I understand. We will form an alliance with you."Luffy truly had nothing to fear; if he did, it was only the PTSD inflicted by his grandfather, Garp, when he was a child.Law nodded in response."Good. Then I will also satisfy your request. You need to convince the rest of your companions.""Mhm, got it."...Since the alliance was confirmed and the next step decided, Law left, taking Chopper back to the research lab to find the formula for Caesar's giantification experiment, in order to treat the children.However, Nami and Usopp were slightly dissatisfied and curious about Law's mysterious declaration that he would only discuss the subsequent plan after kidnapping Caesar."Drastic changes? What kind of changes? That sounds terrifying!"Usopp said, hugging himself.Nami was a little depressed. "I don't know, but how can anything involving one of the Four Emperors be good news?"Robin picked up where they left off. "If you're curious, you can ask Satoru.""I think he should know."Hearing Robin say this, everyone shifted their gaze to Satoru.Satoru smiled helplessly, "What, do you think I'm omnipotent and know everything?""However, regarding Law's matter, I do know."Everyone stumbled; the change in tone was so fast it nearly threw them off balance.Robin, meanwhile, wore an 'I knew it' smile."Then I'll tell you, so you understand the severity of the situation and don't neglect your daily training."Satoru said.The others didn't quite catch everything, but Usoppand Nami only heard the word "severity.""Is this matter very serious?"The two asked, their voices trembling slightly.Satoru replied, "How should I put this? It involves one of the Four Emperors in the end. It's not serious, not serious. You'll just die.""That's not serious!!!"The two shouted.Satoru looked innocent. "You'll just die, not necessarily die, so relatively speaking, it's not serious.""Alright, let's get down to business.""Why would just one Caesar implicate Kaido, one of the Four Emperors?"Satoru posed the question and began to tell the story. Everyone sat in a row to listen.Everyone looked confused, except for Robin. "Caesar is a scientist. Is his technology useful to Kaido?""Bingo!""As expected of Robin, you're truly smart."Robin merely responded to Satoru's flattery with a smile."Caesar possesses a technology that Kaido needs, so this situation will inevitably involve him.""The technology he possesses is the [Artificial Devil Fruit]!""Artificial Devil Fruit!!?"Everyone was somewhat surprised by this name."That's incredible! Doesn't that mean they can easily create a lot of Ability Users?"Usopp said.Satoru shook his head. "That is the ability of the creator god.""Caesar is not worthy of that. Although he can create Devil Fruit Abilities, they are only Zoan-type, and the failure rate after consumption is as high as ninety percent.""I don't know much, but Caesar manufactures Artificial devil fruits because he can develop an unknown substance called [SAD]. The devil fruitproduced from this is called the smile fruit."Everyone silently complained inwardly: You call this 'not knowing much'?! You even know the technical terms!!"And the fact that Caesar, a Marine-wanted criminal, has the funds to continue his research on this island is all thanks to the support of one person.""That is Heavenly Yaksha, Donquixote Doflamingo, one of the Seven Warlords of the Sea.""Why are we involving a Shichibukai again!!"Usopp and Nami said with a hint of despair.Satoru laughed, "What's the matter? You've already fought two Shichibukai, what difference does one more make?""Doflamingo is the one from the Marineford Warwho wore a pink feathered coat and red sunglasses, looking like a flamingo. His ability is based on strings. Does everyone remember him?""Hmm... I kind of remember him. He was very noisy during the Marineford War."A complaint from Luffy.That was quite accurate. That guy was indeed noisy, loudly proclaiming his views on justice and evil during the Marineford War."Firstly, Caesar has the ability to develop SAD as a raw material. Doflamingo provides him with funding and protection, allowing him to conduct research on this island.""The raw materials Caesar prepares are transported to Doflamingo, who is a Shichibukai, where they are processed with fruit to ultimately form the smile fruit.""On this great sea, whatever you want to accomplish, you can never escape the issue of money.""Doflamingo sells the processed smile fruit to Kaido.""Kaido's wish is to establish an army composed entirely of Zoan-type Devil Fruit Ability Users, which is why he acquires most of the smile fruits.""Therefore, the chain of command goes from Caesarto Doflamingo, and then to Kaido.""If Caesar is captured, Doflamingo won't be able to make money and will also offend Kaido, so he definitely won't agree.""Then we will inevitably clash with Doflamingo. If we defeat Doflamingo, but he is under Kaido's protection, this can be seen as us declaring war on Kaido.""Furthermore, without the smile fruit, Kaido will naturally place the blame on us—the ones who captured Caesar.""That's why Law said that kidnapping Caesar would cause drastic changes.""Simply put, once Caesar is kidnapped, our struggle against the Four Emperors begins.""I trust you are prepared.""Prepared for... nothing!!!"Nami and Usopp shouted up at the sky, then knelt down in despair."First the Shichibukai, and then the Four Emperors.""We already offended one of the Four Emperorsback on Fish-Man Island, and now another one.""The future is pitch black! Filled with the aura of death!!!""I actually think it sounds quite challenging, hahaha.""No matter what, I will definitely become the Pirate King!!"Luffy declared his dream.Seeing this, Usopp and Nami had nothing more to say.As crewmates, they naturally supported their Captain's dream.
Chapter 857: That Will Be Very Interesting(Continuing the main storyline exactly as before is somewhat boring and tedious. From now on, I will only write about necessary main plot points and changes due to Satoru's presence. The rest will intersperse stories about the Revolutionary Armyand the Marine clones.)The Straw Hat Pirates and Law formed an alliance and determined their goal was to kidnap Caesar.After Law left, Satoru also told everyone the information he "didn't know much about."All in all, kidnapping Caesar was the start of the struggle against Kaido, one of the Four Emperors.Usopp and Nami were already filled with despair about the future.But with Luffy's personality, he wouldn't be afraid or back down; instead, he found it highly challenging.He wants to become the Pirate King, and no matter who blocks his path, he will charge through.All in all, the next course of action was simple.That is: Kidnap Caesar!!With a goal set, things became simple, and everyone began to act.They split into four groups:Xiao Bai, Zoro, Sanji, and Brook went to search for the samurai Kin'emon.Law hung a bag from his sword hilt, letting Chopperhide inside, and took him through the back door of the research facility.Nami, Satoru, and Usopp stayed behind to look after the children.Finally, Luffy, Franky, and Robin headed to the main entrance of the research facility to forcefully abduct Caesar.Coincidentally, Smoker and his subordinates were fighting Caesar's men—the criminals who remained and treated Caesar as their savior. Because his body was swapped with Tashigi's, Smoker's combat power was greatly reduced, and he still couldn't get past the entrance... Sabaody Archipelago Marine Base."I'm going out on patrol, Commodore Dachong.""You brat!!!"After Satoru's Marine Clone, Seller, proved his strength, he received a Special Recruitment offer and joined the Marine without an open selection or test.Although his strength was wasted on being a Soldier, he still had a seven-day Probationary Period. During these seven days, he would serve as a Soldier, and after seven days, the Fleet Admiralwould personally determine his rank.Seller also knew that the Marine would definitely investigate his background during these seven days, but they'd be cursed if they found anything.What the Marine obtained would ultimately be a blank slate.So, this depends on Sakazuki's own opinion.To make himself appear more loyal, Seller naturally wouldn't spend these seven days casually idling in the base.Of course, he had to find a few "Lucky Spectators" to demonstrate his "loyalty" to the Marine.And today was the first day of Seller's probation.Because Seller's strength meant he wouldn't remain a mere Soldier, Dachong did not issue him a MarineSoldier uniform, as officer-grade clothing is custom-made.Furthermore, the Marine Base on Sabaody Archipelago is located on an island full of criminals.Even if Commodore Dachong harbored a sense of justice, he could only guard District 65, where the base was located; he was powerless regarding the other districts.The lawbreakers on the island knew the Marinedidn't manage the other districts, so they naturally moved freely there. There was no need to provoke the Marine in the Marine district, as there were no exotic treasures there anyway.Therefore, if attacked by lawbreakers, running to District 65 was a good decision. Those lawbreakers would be somewhat wary of the Marine. Of course, this didn't apply to the powerful or the insane.Originally, patrols only needed to cover District 65, and the edges of District 65 were also garrisoned by the Marine.To find lucky spectators, Seller couldn't possibly stay only in District 65. Therefore, Seller told Commodore Dachong that his patrol would extend beyond District 65.After receiving Commodore Dachong's refusal, he refused Commodore Dachong's refusal, stating that if he died, it was on him.Dachong cursed, "What? You want to pin that on me?!"..."I've successfully joined the Marine. The future... is worth looking forward to. That will be very interesting."Seller muttered this to himself while walking along the road in District 65. Even if someone overheard him using Observation Haki, it wouldn't sound abnormal.Moreover, although he was only a Clone Body, Seller could still detect the use of Observation Hakiby others.He didn't deliberately head in any specific direction, choosing instead to wander randomly. On the current Sabaody Archipelago, there was no fear of a lack of trouble. Of course, there was still the possibility of Celestial Dragons showing up; a dog can't stop eating shit, and Celestial Dragons can't stop auctioning slaves.Also, aside from Hot-Blooded Youths like 索隆 and 路飞, lawbreakers wouldn't casually attack a Celestial Dragon; that was undoubtedly a death wish...Map of Sabaody Archipelago Two Years AgoTwo years ago, the distribution of Sabaody Archipelago according to the map was like this:Districts 0 to 29: Mainly contained Human Trafficking Shops, Human Auctions, and lawless zones.Districts 30 to 39: Mainly contained the Soap Bubble Park.Districts 40 to 49: Mainly contained Tourist Areas and specialty shops.Districts 50 to 59: Mainly contained Shipyards and Coating Craftsmen.Districts 60 to 69: Mainly contained MarineGarrisons and government entrances/exits.Districts 70 to 79: Mainly contained the Hotel District.However, due to the relocation of Marineford, all areas of the present-day Sabaody Archipelago, except for District 65 where the Marine Base is located, have become lawless zones.In all the other areas—whether amusement parks, tourist zones, or shipyards—lawbreakers run rampant. There is no concept of paying for things anymore, so the island's residents are miserable, having to guard against not only lawbreakers but also Celestial Dragons who might go crazy at any moment.Consequently, most residents have become pirates, as that is the only way for them to survive. Most of those who remain are the old, weak, women, and children. But in the world of pirates, being old doesn't necessarily mean being weak. If you don't believe it, go pick a fight with a certain Dark King and see if he's too old, or if your neck is too tough for him to cut.Seller walked straight out of the Marine Base gate, passing through Districts 64, 63, 62, 61, and 60. He was disappointed not to encounter anyone causing trouble. Continuing straight ahead, according to the map, he naturally entered the lawless zone of Districts 0 to 10.This area was close to the Marine Base. Compared to the human auctions and trafficking in Districts 11 to 29, this area was called the "Work Introduction Agency."Simply put, this was where the Celestial Dragonscame to hold auctions. It was a case of wanting to auction things off while still maintaining a façade of respectability—pure hypocrisy. Plus, it was close to the Marine Base, making it convenient for the base to dispatch troops if anything happened.Upon reaching District 1, which was the location of the Human Auction, Seller saw people approaching ahead, and the surrounding civilians were kneeling and trembling.No need to guess.A damn Celestial Dragon was out on the street.Seller cursed under his breath, calling it bad luck. Furthermore, he recognized this Celestial Dragon: Saint Charloss and Saint Shalria, the guy who was punched away by Luffy, and his sister.As for their father, Rosward Saint, Seller estimated that one coffin lid during the Main Body's resurrection would be enough to keep him lying down for ten days to half a month.This was the third time they had met.Seller grumbled internally, "Do you damn Celestial Dragons have no other interests besides coming to the auction house?!"Although he really wanted to hit him.Since he had to be a Marine, he naturally couldn't hit a Celestial Dragon.Seller planned to bypass them, but just as he was preparing to leave, an accident occurred over there.
Chapter 858: He Is Not Simple!!Sabaody Archipelago - Auction House Area No. 1.Seller, who had become a Marine, left the Marinebase and searched the streets for lawbreakers to increase his merits, hoping to secure a higher position when his internship ended.However, as soon as he reached Area No. 1, he ran into Celestial Dragons out on the street: Saint Charloss and Sharlia Palace. These two Celestial Dragons were old patrons of the auction house.After feeling unlucky and complaining that these two had nothing better to do than auction slaves, Seller planned to leave.And typically, just as he planned to leave, an accident occurred... When Celestial Dragons go out, they naturally ride slaves. Both Saint Charloss and Sharlia Palace had a slave beneath them, one male and one female.When they reached a certain spot, a young boy in the crowd stood up with a dagger and rushed fiercely toward Saint Charloss."Assassin!!"The guards wearing heavy armor accompanying the Celestial Dragons weren't blind; they immediately took up defensive positions, raising their shields.But instantly, the guard was sent flying as if hit by a locomotive, and the armor on his body was dented.Naturally, it was Seller.Seller knocked the guard away, positioned himself between the boy and Saint Charloss, and shouted, "Watch out!!"Then Seller tripped the boy. The boy was about the same height as Seller, and seeing that he was losing his footing and about to fall into Seller's arms, Sellergrabbed both of the boy's wrists to steady his body.Under the boy's astonished gaze, he felt the hand not holding the dagger automatically strike toward Seller's abdomen.Automatically—or more accurately, Seller pulled his hand to strike himself.The boy was confused. What was he doing?!Seller appeared to suffer a massive impact from this punch, retreating backward and knocking Saint Charloss off the back of his slave.If one looked closely, as Seller collided with Saint Charloss, he delivered an elbow strike to his abdomen, immediately cracking three of Saint Charloss's ribs. This was certainly no less severe than the boy stabbing him with a dagger, though it depended on where the stab landed.Regarding this, Seller thought: I really didn't mean to... I meant to!Saint Charloss fell off the slave's back, feeling immense pain, but Sharlia Palace, who was his sister, did not catch him; instead, she screamed and backed away."Aah!!!"Saint Charloss fell to the ground, and the slave beneath him saw an opportunity and instantly ran forward, but unfortunately, he was blocked by the armored guards, who had already surrounded the boy, Seller, and the two Celestial Dragons.As Seller stabilized himself, he "accidentally" stepped on Saint Charloss's ankle again.The pain made him howl, "Aaaah!!!"Seller secretly pulled his foot back and placed it on the ground, acting as if nothing had happened. He pulled out his Marine Badge to prove his identity and, holding his stomach with one hand, said loudly."I am Marine Soldier - Seller.""Be careful of this boy, he is not simple!!"The boy opposite him, holding the dagger, was stunned, uttering a single word in disbelief, "Me?"He didn't even know he wasn't simple. Attacking a Celestial Dragon was just a desperate gamble because he didn't want to live anymore. If he wasn't simple, why would he use a dagger for assassination? He even stole this dagger.He was a child from the orphanage on the island. The day before yesterday, the orphanage director, a thirty-year-old woman, caught Saint Charloss's eye and was forcefully taken away, which led to the boy's assassination attempt today.Because of Seller's declaration, he didn't even know how to proceed with his assassination attempt."Kill... kill... kill him!!"Saint Charloss managed to spare a moment from his painful howling to shout this command, but shouting too hard pulled at his rib injury, causing him to howl again."You guys help Saint Charloss up, I will deal with this boy!!"Seller said, and immediately charged forward to attack.The boy panicked and wildly swung his arms, regardless of whether he was holding the dagger. But no matter where he swung, Seller managed to meet it, using Observation Haki to predict his movements and waiting there beforehand. It looked exactly as if the boy was blocking all of Seller's attacks.Well, a passive powerhouse.The boy himself was bewildered. Am I really that strong?Seller seized the opportunity, drew his gun, and deliberately slammed into the boy's swinging fist. It looked like the boy had immense strength, as Seller's entire arm was forced backward. He pulled the trigger, and the bullet flew out, hitting Saint Charloss's Bubble Shield and passing right by his ear.He peed himself and fainted from fright."Saint Charloss!!"The boy was also startled by the gunshot, and the dagger in his hand flew out, heading toward Sharlia Palace, aimed directly at her heart.Seller immediately flashed over to catch the dagger for her. One must know that injuring a Celestial Dragon and killing a Celestial Dragon are two different things. If Sharlia Palace died here, Sabaody Archipelago would likely be razed to the ground."You..."Sharlia Palace looked at Seller, who had caught the dagger for her, and something stirred within her heart.But Seller didn't say a word to her. He turned around with the dagger and attacked the boy, grabbing his arm and lifting him into the air before dropping him shortly after. The dagger was now stuck in the boy's shoulder, and the boy's eyes were tightly shut, devoid of life.Seller casually tossed him onto the ground. "Phew... he is dead."The scene fell silent.An armored guard came over to check the boy's breath, then reported back to the still conscious Sharlia Palace."He is indeed dead."Sharlia Palace adjusted her appearance. "Hmm, you... you are a Marine, right? Well done."Seller simply returned a smile, then looked toward the communicating guard and immediately took his receiver."Hello, Fleet Admiral. I am Recruit Seller. The criminal has been neutralized."At Marineford, Sakazuki heard this, looked up at Kizaru, who now didn't have to work, and Kizaru, finding this quite satisfactory, immediately left the Fleet Admiral's Office."Hmm, well done."Sakazuki replied, and then hung up the phone.Seller returned the receiver to the guard, suppressed his disgust, and gave Sharlia Palace a gentleman's bow, placing his right hand on his abdomen and slightly bending forward."The matter has been resolved, Sharlia Palace.""I will handle the criminal's body; don't let it dirty your eyes.""The Marine base has specialized doctors. You can take Saint Charloss there for treatment.""His injury is something no one wanted to see. Unfortunately, the criminal was too strong."Sharlia Palace looked at the red-haired, one-eyed man before her, finding him increasingly admirable. "Yes, you did very well."Saint Charloss: So, the good thing is just that I didn't die, huh?"Did you hear that, you useless slobs? Hurry up and take my brother for treatment!!"Turning around and shouting at the guards, Sharlia Palace spoke nothing like the soft tones she used for Seller. When she turned back to look at Selleragain, he had already walked away, dragging the boy's corpse.
Chapter 859: The Clinic(To add a point here, after Satoru's Selene Fruitawakens, his clones can still choose one of the six Devil Fruit Abilities replicated by the bracelet, but it's not just 'one-time use'; it's 'permanent.' He can use it once a day, still 15 minutes during the day and 30 minutes at night.)...Sabaody Archipelago, Grove 45, inside a clinic.Seller pushed open the wooden door and saw several burly men lying inside, with an elderly male doctor and a young female nurse treating them.After Seller entered, the burly men immediately stood up, glaring at him with fierce expressions."Brother, what can we do for you?"The three burly men were all bald and looked identical; they were triplets. The only distinction was the numbers 1, 2, and 3 tattooed on their heads, which was... simple and clear.The one with '1' on his head said this, presumably the eldest of the three."I need some needles and thread, hemostatic gauze, bandages, and ideally, povidone-iodine."Seller said, staying outside the clinic to show he had no ill intentions.Silence fell in the room.Seller spoke again, "Do you have them?"The old doctor nodded, "Yes, yes, Lia, please get them for this gentleman."Lia clenched her fists, nodding reluctantly, "Okay, Father."While Lia went to get what Seller wanted, Sellerstill didn't step into the clinic. Although the three burly men sat down, they continued to stare at Seller.It was clear they all had injuries. Baldy 2 had bandages wrapped around his waist, Baldy 3 had several knife wounds on his body, and Baldy 1 was the least injured with no obvious external wounds, but Seller's Observation Haki could sense that he had severe internal injuries to his organs.Soon, the nurse named Lia brought the items Sellerrequested. As she nervously walked towards Seller, she heard shouting from behind him."Captain!! It's this one! This damn clinic, they wouldn't give us money or medicine and even dared to hit us!! The Vice-Captain was beaten by those three bald men inside and is now seriously injured in bed!!!"Hearing the voice, Lia was so scared that she dropped everything on the ground. Fortunately, she held onto the povidone-iodine; the other items wouldn't break from a fall.The three bald men stood up again.Seller turned to look at the newcomers; he seemed to understand.Pirates were robbing the clinic. These three bald men must be from the clinic, having fought off the pirates. Now, after the Vice-Captain returned, the Captain had arrived.Seller carefully observed the Captain's appearance, then sighed.The Captain over there frowned, "What do you mean, kid?""Is this red-haired kid also from the clinic?!"His crewmate immediately replied."Captain, when we and the Vice-Captain came, this red-haired guy wasn't here."Seller's sigh was because, among the stack of wanted posters he took from the Marine base, he only looked at those with bounties over 100 million. The fact that he didn't recognize this Captain proved that this guy's bounty hadn't reached 100 million yet.If Marines capture pirates, they can receive a share of the bounty amount after reporting it.That is, if it's 100 million, it's 5 million.This Captain didn't even have 100 million; the achievement was small, the share was small. Sellerwas simply disdainful, but never mind, even mosquito meat is still meat.Seller pulled out a wanted poster from behind him and flipped directly to the end, because the low bounties were placed last."Let me see... bounty of 69 million, Frogman - Quackus.""...What kind of terrible name is this?"Seller complained.This really displeased Quackus."What do you mean, kid?! Looking down on me?! You're asking to die!!!"Opening his mouth, Quackus's frog tongue shot out.Seller dodged. It wasn't that he was afraid of the move, but he didn't want to block it; the tongue was covered in saliva, too disgusting.Quackus's tongue stuck to the clinic's wooden door. When he pulled it back, it closed the door neatly, quite politely.Before the door closed, the people inside the clinic also saw this scene. Baldy 1 frowned tightly, "He's a Devil Fruit user, this is troublesome."After a moment of thought, Baldy 1 walked forward, preparing to open the door.Baldy 2 and 3 immediately stopped him, "Big Brother, what are you doing?!"Baldy 1 declared, "That red-haired brother is innocent! We're the ones who provoked these pirates, we can't let him get dragged into this because of us!"With that, Baldy 1 resolutely pulled open the wooden door, even though he was the most injured.But when he saw the scene outside, he was stunned. All the arriving pirates were knocked down, and Seller was carefully taking off the stolen gloves from his hands and throwing them away.As for Quackus, he was tied around the neck with his own tongue, not too tightly, so he wouldn't be strangled to death by his own tongue. Clearly, Sellerhad done this."This, this..."Baldy 1 didn't know what to say. He was shocked. How long had it been from closing the door to opening it? And it was already resolved?!!Baldy 1 swallowed, he knew that if this red-haired youth were to attack the clinic, their three brothers would be utterly defenseless.After throwing away the gloves, Seller walked over, still not entering the clinic."Take him to the Marine base to exchange for the bounty. Consider it payment for the items I bought, and in the future, if I need anything, I'll just come and take it without paying. Is that acceptable?"Seller said."Ah! Of course!"Baldy 1 was stunned for a moment, then reacted. Of course it was acceptable! Those items were worth so little money. Even if this pirate only had a million bounty, their clinic would still profit.Seller nodded, then extended his hand."Then give me the items.""Understood, understood. Little sister, bring the items to this brother."Little sister? So they were all family.Seller thought to himself.Lia brought the items and placed them in Seller's hand, apologizing softly and shyly."I... I'm sorry... I thought you were a pirate just now."Seller returned a smile. Guess what? Although I'm a Marine now, in essence, I am indeed a pirate."It's alright, most people on this island would probably think that.""I'm a new Soldier at the Marine base.""You're a Marine!!"The people inside the clinic were somewhat surprised. Baldy 3's curse word was on the tip of his tongue, but he swallowed it back.The island residents were furious about the Marines' inaction.Seller said nothing about this, but left with a remark."Don't be soft-hearted towards these pirates. Don't think that letting them go will turn enemies into friends. Letting them go will only lead to retaliation. Take them to the Marine base as soon as possible; I have other matters to attend to."With that, Seller turned and left.Lia watched his departing back, "Big Brother, if only all Marines were like him."Baldy 1 sighed, "Indeed.""Enough talk, I'll take these people to the Marinebase. You and Father continue to treat Second Brother and Third Brother."
WTR-LABI'm in One Piece, I'm Luffy's Childhood FriendCh. 861 / 210540.9%WebWeb+AI#861I'm willingChapter 860: I Want ToOn the coast of Sabaody Archipelago's Area 46.Inside the lighthouse at the dock, a young boy lay with a dagger stuck in his shoulder.His eyelids fluttered, and the boy woke up, feeling an intense pain in his left shoulder. He tilted his head to see a dagger embedded there—the very dagger he had used to assassinate the Celestial Dragons!"What happened?""I'm not dead...""That red-haired bastard!"The boy only remembered being carried into the air by that red-haired guy, then suddenly losing consciousness. When he woke up, he was lying here, with the dagger he'd stolen now in his own shoulder.But luckily, he wasn't dead.The boy tried to get up, but every movement pulled at the wound on his shoulder, causing immense pain. Yet, the will to live made him grit his teeth and stand.He knew he was inside a lighthouse, and that this lighthouse was abandoned, so there was no lighthouse keeper to turn the lights on and off.The boy felt a bit lost. He hadn't expected to survive. Now that he thought about it, he had been impulsive. With the Dean gone, he was the eldest in the orphanage. If he were gone too, what would happen to the children there!?In this man-eating place!! Those children, relying on themselves, might be caught and sold in less than a day!!"I should go back to the orphanage first..."The boy made his next decision and walked towards the door. He reached out and pulled the door open, revealing a bright light. Standing in the light was that red-haired guy.The boy was startled, stumbling backward."You!!!"Seller walked into the lighthouse and closed the door.The boy panicked, "You... what do you want to do?!"Seller didn't answer him but commented, "You woke up faster than I expected. Your physique isn't bad."The boy had no breath and hadn't fainted, all because of the poison Seller had made himself."What?""No?! You Celestial Dragon's lackey!!""Why didn't you kill me?!"The boy retreated until his back hit the wall.Seller was surprised, "What, you're that eager to die, huh?""I..."This left the boy speechless. Of course, he didn't want to die! But he had tried to assassinate a Celestial Dragon!! How could they not kill him?!"Come here."Seller beckoned.How could the boy dare to go over?Seller pulled the gun from his waist and aimed it at the boy, "Now you can come over, right?"The boy: "..."After all, it was a threat of death. Even though he was scared, the boy still shuffled towards Seller one tiny step at a time.Seller put the gun back on his waist, looking at the boy with a gentle smile."Don't be nervous, I'm not a bad person."The boy forced out an awkward smile."Alright, tell me, what's your name?"Seller asked.The boy thought for a moment, and finally decided to tell the truth."My name is Ki...""Ah!!!!"Clearly, the boy's name was not "Ah."It was because as he was halfway through saying his name, Seller instantly pulled the dagger from his shoulder.As soon as the blood gushed out, Seller stuffed a hemostatic gauze into the boy's hand, then guided the boy's hand to press the gauze onto the wound himself.Only after a moment did the boy cry out in pain.Seller casually tossed the dagger behind him and reminded the boy, "Press it firmly. Stop the bleeding first."The boy cried from the pain, lowering his head in embarrassment. Then he saw Seller bend down, looking at him with an even lower gaze, "Oh my, already crying."The boy: "..."The boy thought, this is definitely the most... insane person he'd met in his 16 years!!Seller straightened up, "You still haven't told me your name."The boy looked up, tears still clinging to the corners of his eyes, "Kino.""What?""Kino! I said my name is Kino!!"Kino replied loudly, then pulled at his wound again.Seller took other items out of his pocket, "You're quite spirited, aren't you?""Now for the main event.""You can take it off now."Following Seller's words, Kino removed the gauze covering his shoulder wound. The gauze was soaked with blood, but thankfully, the bleeding had stopped.Seller took out another piece of gauze and carefully wiped away the bloodstains around Kino's wound.Only then did Kino understand that Seller was treating his wound. But why? Didn't you stab me with this dagger? You stab me and then treat me, do I have to thank you?After wiping away the blood, Seller took out iodine and tweezers, picked up a medical cotton ball, dipped it in iodine, and applied iodine to Kino's wound for disinfection, three times in total.Kino stared at Seller the whole time. So meticulous? He understood this red-haired guy less and less."Alright, so there's only one last step.""Suturing the wound.""But there's one thing I forgot."Kino had a bad feeling, "What is it?""I forgot to buy anesthetic.""What?!"Kino was terrified, "You're going to stitch it raw!! I'd rather you kill me!!!""Alright."Seller pulled out his gun again. Kino said he'd rather be killed, so why not satisfy him? Seller thought he was such a good person.Kino truly had never seen anyone like this."Don't! I was just saying."Seller put away his gun."In the eyes of those Celestial Dragons, you are already dead.""I saved you simply because I also hate those Celestial Dragons, even though I am a Marine.""But you are already dead!""My point is, I pretended to kill you. If you were to appear alive before those Celestial Dragons, I would also be implicated.""So, either die completely now.""Or grit your teeth and endure the suturing of this wound. After this, you'll have to live under a new identity. As for how you live, that's your business, not mine."Kino looked at Seller, confused."You... are a Marine?""If you're a Marine, why do you hate the Celestial Dragons?""And why save me? Save an unknown stranger?"Seller smiled, "What, can't a Marine hate Celestial Dragons?""I became a Marine precisely so that one day I can pull the Celestial Dragons down from their arrogant high positions!!""As for why I saved you?""I want to, no reason needed."Pull the Celestial Dragons... down!!Kino was stunned.Seller ignored his shock and asked."So, have you made up your mind?""To die completely now?""Or to endure and embrace a new life?"After speaking, Seller fell silent, waiting for the boy's answer.The boy was silent for more than ten seconds, then finally made up his mind."I want to live!!""Good."Seller picked up the needle and thread, the needle point gleaming coldly. Even with a determined attitude, one must experience the determination.A wail echoed from inside the lighthouse.But it was only that one sound; no further sounds were heard.It wasn't that Kino held back.It was because Seller said, "I hate noise. Scream again and I'll blow your brains out."So Kino dared not scream again, while silently cursing Seller for being heartless.
Chapter 861: You Have No Other ChoiceInside the lighthouse on the coast of District 46, Sabaody Archipelago.Kino panted, drenched in sweat, saying, "I can't do it anymore!" Then he collapsed to the ground, his shoulder wrapped in layers of bandages, tied with a bow at the end.The entire treatment was finally over. Only after Seller finished tying the bow did he dare to sit down, also because he truly had no strength left to stand.Whether it was out of fear of death or something else, after Satoru said he would shoot him if he screamed again, Kino indeed didn't cry out until the end. Satoru rather admired the boy for that."Give me your clothes."Seller said. Kino had taken off his shirt earlier to make stitching easier.Kino was puzzled, wondering why he needed his clothes, but he still obediently handed them to Seller.Seller spread his clothes on the ground and sat on them."Oh dear... I'm exhausted."Kino: "..."Seller massaged his own shoulders and then asked Kino."Why did you try to assassinate a Celestial Dragon?"Kino hesitated for a moment, feeling that Sellerwasn't a bad person, so he told him the whole story.He told him about the orphanage, about the director being arrested, and how he had tried to assassinate the Celestial Dragon because the director had been taken away.Upon hearing this, Seller revealed a terrifying smile."So that's it, those little brats! It's not a waste for me to expend so much effort to save you. I'll go kill them now, root and branch!"Kino's eyes widened gradually. "You..."Then Seller's smile returned to normal."Just kidding."Kino was full of questions. "Huh?!!!""I just want to tell you not to trust others so easily and reveal your background to everyone. In this world, it's better to be cautious. If you have comrades, you can be naive, but you don't, at least not now."After speaking, Seller stood up and patted his backside, even though Kino's clothes had been cushioning him.Then Seller picked up the clothes. Kino had also stood up and was about to reach for them when he heard a tearing sound.Seller tore his clothes, pulling off a piece of cloth. "Cover your face first. Don't forget, you're dead.""As for whether you wear these clothes or not, that's up to you."Kino obediently complied. He just wanted to go back and see the children in the orphanage, his younger brothers and sisters.Kino covered the lower half of his face and put on the clothes, which were now a backless outfit."Is this alright? Can I go back now?"Kino asked, but Seller told him."Did you forget something?""What?""I said many times, you're dead!""Dead in front of a Celestial Dragon!!""Go back? If someone with ill intentions sees you on your way back, not only will you truly die, but the children in the orphanage will also be implicated, including me, who saved you!"Kino understood, but he was bewildered."Then... what should I do?!"Seller shrugged."It's simple. Leave here, start a new life, and come back when you're qualified.""I told you to cover your face so that you wouldn't be recognized until you set sail.""Set sail..."Kino murmured."Just me?""Just you.""But I've never sailed before.""Then learn."Seller's attitude was firm. "You have no other choice."Kino fell silent, remaining so for a full minute, before finally speaking, "Can... can I go see the children?"Seller answered instantly, as if he knew he would ask, "No.""If you see them, you might have no regrets. You need to have regrets to have the desire to live."Alright, Kino was convinced."I... understand."Seller nodded, then walked to the door. As he was about to open it, he spoke again."I also grew up in an orphanage.""I'll look after those children, don't worry.""As for the director... she will live forever in your heart."Seller's words struck Kino's heart, and tears couldn't help but well up again."Thank... you."Seller didn't speak, letting Kino cry. After he walked out that door, in the days to come, Kino would understand that crying was also a luxury.Kino's crying slowly stopped. After picking up the dagger from the ground, he immediately walked behind Seller.Seller didn't ask if he was ready. Whether he was ready or not, he had to face it.So, Seller pushed open the wooden door of the lighthouse... "This is the Frog Pirates' ship, right?""Hmm? That's right! We are the famous Frog Pirates! Our Captain is the famous Guaguas! Who are you?!"Seller smiled back, "Marine.""Wh-...!""…"Kino's eyes widened as he watched a dozen pirates get knocked down by Seller in less than three seconds.What kind of strength is this?!So powerful!!This is simply being inexperienced. If Seller couldn't deal with a few nameless extras, he might as well bash his head against a tofu block and die... After throwing the pirates off the ship one by one, Sellerflew into the air and took down the pirate flag instead of tearing it directly – this was considered pirate etiquette, perhaps. Then he casually tossed it into the sea. What else would he do? Keep it as a souvenir? He had no interest in that.And Kino was surprised that Seller could fly!!Oh, right, he seemed to have flown with me before.Coming down from the air, Seller raised the anchor and walked over to Kino, who was still dazed beneath the mast."From today onwards, this ship is yours."Kino could hardly believe it."Me?""But I don't know how to sail.""Then learn.""How do I learn?""However you want to learn.""…""In short, after you set sail, life and death are up to fate, it all depends on your own fortune."With that, Seller untied the ropes and lowered the sails.The wind filled the sails, and the ship slowly began to move.Kino was a little excited, but more so, afraid.Seller naturally couldn't go to sea with him."Remember, you can only take off the cloth from your face after it gets dark.""Also, before you gain any power, if you dare to sneak back, I will definitely kill you if I see you!
Chapter 862: Go Quickly and Create a MiracleOn the sea near Area 46 of the Sabaody Archipelago, aboard the Frog Pirates' ship.Seller was sending a young man named Kino off to sea.It wasn't his dream to go to sea; he was forced to."Until you have ability, if you dare sneak back, I will see you, and I will definitely kill you!!"Seller was serious about this statement. Kino could tell he meant it from his eyes."I understand."Seller nodded, glanced at the dagger at Kino's waist, took out a gun from his own waist, and handed it to him."Do you know how to use a gun?""No."Kino thought Seller would tell him to learn, but unexpectedly, Seller carefully explained the structure of the gun in his hand, taught him how to fire a shot hand-by-hand, and then taught him how to change the magazine.After doing all this, Seller walked into the ship's armory, took another pistol and tucked it into the empty spot on his waist, and also slung two rifles across his back.Kino: "..."Glancing at the distance to the shore, Seller said with a slight smile."Alright, then, brave young man, go quickly and create a miracle."Immediately, he stepped into the air and flew back to the shore.Kino looked at his retreating figure, then at the gun in his hand. Remembering Seller's words—that hitting a flying seagull meant he had mastered the basics of marksmanship—he decided to start practicing shooting seagulls.As for Seller, this Red-Hair young man who wasn't much older than him, he would forever remain in Kino's heart. He hoped that one day he could return... and then stab this Red-Hair guy in the shoulder too!Kino smiled, but as he smiled, he began to cry. On the vast ship, he was enveloped by an overwhelming sense of loneliness, which was difficult for a 16-year-old boy... New World Straw Hat Pirates' first stop—Fire and Ice Island—Punk Hazard.The Straw Hat Pirates split into four groups.Law took Chopper to infiltrate the research facility to check what medicine Caesar had given the children.Luffy, Robin, and Franky launched a frontal assault on the research facility, where they happened to encounter Smoker and his group.After learning that Smoker and Tashigi had swapped bodies, Luffy laughed so hard he fell onto the ground; there was no personal grudge, he just found it hilarious.Just as Franky blasted open the research facility's gate with a Laser and told Luffy and Robin to prepare to enter, a sticky, purplish-red venom fell from the sky. It seemed to possess life, just like a Slime... Satoru, Usopp, and Nami remained at the research facility ruins watching the children.Since Luffy and the others left, Satoru had been resting with his eyes closed. The commotion coming from the Burning Island side made him open his eyes, and he knew Caesar had begun his plan."Hmm? Satoru, you're awake. Are you thinking about something?"Nami noticed Satoru opening his eyes and asked."I wasn't really thinking about anything," Satoruslightly shook his head. "I just sent a brave but incompetent young man off to sea. On a whim, I planted a seed, hoping a miracle will happen and yield a great tree."Satoru thought carefully. A young man named Kinogoing on an adventure, exploring the sea—it felt strangely familiar."Huh??"Nami and Usopp were completely confused. What was he talking about?Satoru smiled back. "It's nothing, I was just rambling. Let's focus on the children."...The last route: Little White, Zoro, Sanji, and Brookwent to search for Kin'emon.Initially, they were ambushed by the Snowman Brothers using poison gas bombs. Little White instantly defeated the Snowman Brothers alone, and now they waited for the three of them to wake up.The four ran across the snowy ground.Suddenly, Little White became energized and took the lead, running ahead. "Over here!! I sense Little Little White's aura!!"Brook recalled, "That's right, Satoru was also there when we met the samurai's upper half. The upper half ran away, and he chased after it.""Satoru? He really is everywhere."Sanji complained.Zoro commented, "Isn't that just how he is?"Little White suddenly called out from the front."I see him!"The three behind looked up and indeed saw Satorustanding alone on the snowy ground.Little White immediately ran over, and the three followed quickly."Little Little White.""Yohohoho, Satoru, did you see the samurai?""You didn't find him?""Did he already merge with his upper half and leave?"Little White did not ask Satoru about Kin'emon but stood beside him.The three who arrived later each asked a question.Satoru replied, "You are stepping on him right now."Startled, the three immediately looked down at their feet, and upon closer inspection, they could indeed see an outline.The three immediately moved off him.Sanji checked his condition. "What happened to this guy? He's frozen solid!""One, two!!"There was no "three." Sanji stomped his foot right onto Kin'emon's head, forcibly 'booting' him up."Ugh!!""A moment of carelessness... cough, cough!!""Hey, what's wrong with you, kid? Were you attacked?"Sanji asked.Zoro countered, "Not likely, since Satoru is here. What happened, Satoru?"Zoro passed the microphone to Satoru.Satoru looked at Kin'emon. "I was just standing here. He suddenly appeared, ran toward me, and then collapsed, staying that way until you arrived."Kin'emon nodded. "That is correct. My body suddenly became inexplicably stiff, and I almost lost my life here."Sanji complained, "Aren't you just frozen stiff? Why don't you create some clothes for yourself!!"Kin'emon retorted, "No, I do not fear the biting cold! A samurai does not fear the severe cold."Brook, drinking hot tea, commented, "This guy is really stubborn."Satoru signaled for a cup for himself, and while drinking the tea, he said."It's really not that simple, Sanji.""He is a Devil Fruit user. I chased his upper half here. The reason he suddenly collapsed powerlessly is that his upper half fell into the lake.""As you know, I am also a Devil Fruit user and cannot go down, so I had to wait for you all to arrive."Kin'emon quickly confirmed this."So that's it. Absolutely true. I definitely felt my upper half soaking in the water."Zoro offered his opinion."Since this half is still alive, it proves that the other half in the lake hasn't been eaten by a shark or anything."Brook nodded. "Yes, we need to hurry and retrieve it.""...But if it's in the lake, someone has to dive in... in this freezing cold...""You are all pirates, and I am merely an acquaintance met by chance. Why would you offer such assistance!!"While Kin'emon mentally forgave Satoru for failing to help him, he now wondered why they were offering aid?Sanji, cigarette dangling, said, "I already told you, I'm just following my principles... Once you put your whole body back together, we'll have a duel, and I'll beat you flat!!"Kin'emon finally lowered the arrogant pride of his samurai self. How fortunate it was to receive aid from benefactors when down on his luck; being stubborn would only harm himself."I understand... I am extremely grateful."Sanji grabbed his clothes and lifted him up, making him stand properly. Without his arms and waist, Kin'emon was like a turtle flipped onto its back; getting up by himself wasn't easy."Now you know how to be grateful?"Just as Sanji was preparing to jump into the lake, a group of Centaurs ran over.
Chapter 863: Then You Must Bow Before Me!!Since we have decided to meddle, we have to see it through to the end.Kin'emon's upper body had fallen into the lake, and Sanji was preparing to retrieve it. The lake was just a short distance ahead, but just as he was about to go into the water, a group of centaurs came running from the other side of the lake."What's going on?" Zoro looked over."Those are the centaur subordinates of Brother Brownbeard, whose clothes we took."Only Brook would refer to people like that; despite being the oldest, he quite loved calling others "Brother."The centaurs were running in a panicked rush, helping those who fell beside them; it was as if they were running for their lives.From their words, the main point could be heard: "The [monster] on the other side of the lake."The two groups met on the narrow path, and the centaurs recognized Satoru and the others. But knowing they could not win, they bypassed them, especially since the monster behind them was still in pursuit.Satoru and his group had no intention of stopping the centaurs and let them run past.Zoro rubbed his chin. "They ran over from the other side of the lake...""Satoru, I recall there aren't any mountains or anything like that on Burning Island, right?"Satoru nodded. "When we walked here, we certainly didn't see any mountains over there.""So that's not a mountain." Xiao Bai crossed her arms. "It seems to be a living organism."As the figure, the size of a small mountain, drew closer, everyone saw what it looked like.It was a massive glob of purple-red Slime; just as Xiao Bai had said, it appeared to be alive.This was a giant poisonous Slime.It was tilted upward, with a spout rising from its body, spitting out smaller globs of Slime. The small Slimes at the main entrance of the research facility were the ones it had spat out.Zoro and Sanji complained in unison. "What a bizarre thing..." "Doing bizarre things..."Brook suddenly recognized the creature. "That monster seems to be called a [Slime]!""I've seen it in a book before; a Slime is a type of... shameless monster that likes to attack women and dissolve their clothes with its liquid!"While he called it shameless, Brook's old bones blushed.Sanji and Kin'emon also crowded over, hurriedly asking which book it was. They didn't mean anything else by it; they were just interested in this unique monster!Xiao Bai sighed. "Has the world developed such species diversity? This kind of creature... well, I can't say much; every creature has a reason for existing."Satoru looked at Xiao Bai with a smile. "Then what is the meaning of your existence, Xiao Bai?"Xiao Bai actually thought about it seriously for a moment, then replied, not knowing if she was being serious or joking, "It is to... meet you."Satoru was a seasoned veteran; this wasn't enough to surprise him. "Then I truly feel honored."Zoro: "..." Two here, three over there; Zoro's face darkened a bit."You three idiots over there, come over and take a good look!" "I don't know if it dissolves clothes, but will it kill you? I think I can guess that."The part of the lake touched by the Slime turned purple and bubbled with poisonous gas; fish, big and small, all floated to the surface, belly-up.Satoru warned, "The poison hasn't spread to the entire lake yet, but it looks like it will soon."Sanji realized what was happening and immediately stripped off his clothes, leaving only his boxers.Brook asked, "Are you really going? Brother Sanji?!"Before, it was just the fear of the cold; now, there was the added layer of poison. Although it hadn't spread here yet, it was still extremely dangerous!!"Of course I'm going; this is my responsibility!!" "Sanji is a man of his word, and what is said cannot be unsaid!!""When it comes to swimming, I'm better than anyone. I'll be back in a flash; you guys are responsible for dealing with this Slime!"Having said that, Sanji dove straight into the lake.Watching Sanji submerge into the water, Satoruremarked, "What do you think would happen if we just ran away now and took Sanji's clothes? Would he be pleasantly surprised when he came back?"Zoro and Brook knew Satoru was joking.Kin'emon seemed unable to believe what he had heard. "What are you spouting?! Aren't you comrades? To say such a thing, are you a demon from hell?!""If you put it that way, I did indeed come back from hell," Satoru replied with a smile, accompanied by nods from Zoro and Brook.Kin'emon was terrified; Wano Country was quite superstitious about such things. "A demon! Are you really a demon?! Have you all been bewitched by him?!""Yes, they are deeply bewitched by me and listen to everything I say." "Xiao Bai, make that glob of Slimestop."The word "glob" was quite precise. Xiao Bai cooperated with Satoru's performance, placing her hand on her chest and performing a gentleman's bow. "As you command."She then looked at the Slime. "No matter what kind of creature you are." "Since you possess life and consciousness, you must bow before me!!"Xiao Bai's voice echoed as if it had reverb.Her animal-type Haoshoku burst forth, and the Slime, which had been slowly moving and spitting poison, suddenly stiffened. Its spout retracted, and not only did it dare not advance further, but it also recoiled.Zoro and Brook were already used to it, but Kin'emon's mouth hung wide open in shock."W-what?! Is this not an illusion?! You made that huge monster stop with just a few words?! Such presence?! No matter what creature it is? Lord Xiao Bai! Can truly any creature bow before you? Is that true for dragons too!?" Kin'emon asked excitedly."Dragons?" Xiao Bai frowned slightly. "Why do you ask that?"Kin'emon gritted his teeth, thought for a moment, and still didn't answer. Xiao Bai was annoyed and about to press the matter, but Satoru nudged him with his elbow.At the research facility's main entrance, with the arrival of the small Slimes, the Marine suffered quite a bit, because these things were poisonous and would explode violently upon contact with an open flame, given the gas content.Caesar also walked out of the research facility very confidently, standing on a broken warship.Just as he was delivering his speech, Luffy rushed up without a word and grabbed him, using Armament Haki to hold onto his gas body.This time, Luffy didn't experience the beating from Magellan—the true "poison" beating. But back in Mock Town, after Satoru learned Doc Q's poison techniques, he would add a little poison to Luffy's food in their daily life. It wouldn't cause a reaction, but it would train Luffy's poison resistance. Satoruhad explained to Sanji that this was for Luffy's own good, and Sanji had agreed.Therefore, Luffy's poison resistance was quite good at this point, and Caesar's poisonous gas was useless against him.
Chapter 864: Giving Him an Unforgettable LessonThe Straw Hat Pirates split up and moved in four groups.If we include Gaia and Seller from the Revolutionary Army and the Marine, that makes six groups.However, Gaia and Seller are outside Punk Hazard, so the main focus is still the four groups inside Punk Hazard.Law successfully infiltrated the research facility with Chopper.Satoru, Nami, and Usopp are still guarding the children.Xiaobai, Zoro, Sanji, and Brook met up with a Satoruclone and found Kin'emon, but Kin'emon's upper body was submerged in the lake.Sanji went down to retrieve him, while the remaining five—oh no, four and a half—stayed on shore to stop Slime. The conscious creature Xiaobai stated it was just a matter of a single word, so Slimewas blocked and dared not approach.The final three remaining, Luffy, Robin, and Franky, went to the main entrance of the research facility to launch a forceful attack, preparing to kidnap the master, Caesar.Caesar confidently revealed himself, then fought Luffy, and after a few exchanges, he was smashed onto the ground from the warship by Luffy.Caesar used Gas Trumpet to blast Luffy, evening the score. He then had the small Slimes surround Luffy, and hit them with another Gas Trumpet. The original explosion, combined with the gas properties of the small Slimes, resulted in an incredibly violent explosion erupting in the air.Caesar was smug, believing Luffy was finished.However, the next second, Luffy's voice came from behind him."Wow, that was a really violent explosion. So dangerous."Caesar was startled. Just as he was about to continue his attack, Luffy pinned him to the ground with one punch, "Gotcha."Victory secured?No, quite the opposite.Luffy suddenly stood up, clutching his neck, looking extremely pained, and then immediately fell to the ground, unconscious.A complete reversal.Luffy was defeated.Not to mention the others.Caesar won this round, which was not unexpected... Inside the research facility, Law lured away Monet, the Snow-Snow Fruit Ability user.During this time, he seemingly inadvertently placed the bag containing Chopper on a table.After the two left.Chopper secretly climbed out of the bag."Phew... that was scary... but I successfully snuck in!!"Chopper felt a little proud of himself. He slid down the table leg to the floor, using the leg to cover half his face while the rest of him was exposed. Hmm... a perfect hiding spot."Hmm... the front is clear, time to move!"Chopper seemed to be playing some kind of role, and just as he was about to move, he suddenly remembered something."That's right!""The task Satoru assigned me."Chopper took a bullet out of his backpack, tossed it into the air, and another Satoru appeared."Satoru!" (Whispered version)"Chopper!" (Also whispered version)"You successfully infiltrated. You truly are Chopper.""You jerk~ Even if you praise me, I won't be happy~"Chopper was as amusing as ever."Alright, let's split up and act separately."Satoru said.Chopper was a little surprised, "Huh? Weren't you supposed to move with me?"Satoru shook his head slightly."No. The mission to find the recipe for the medicine the children ate is entrusted to you. I believe you can do it.""I have something else to do."Chopper asked curiously, "What is it?"Satoru replied with a smile, "To fish for a dragon, and give him an unforgettable lesson."Chopper understood, Chopper didn't understand, but Chopper supported him."Alright, be careful, Satoru."Satoru nodded, "You too, Chopper."Immediately, the two went their separate ways.Meanwhile, on the other side of the research facility, Law was instantly controlled when Vergo grabbed his heart.In order to reasonably remain here, Law's plan involved handing over his own heart, which was tantamount to giving away his life.Either he is very confident, or he is a reckless gambler... At the island's boundary line, near the Ice-Fire Lake.Although Slime was restrained by Xiaobai's Animal-Type Haoshoku, its body had already submerged into the lake, and the poison was still spreading.Sanji's situation in the water was very dangerous."Ah!!!"Suddenly, Kin'emon let out a wail.Brook quickly asked, "What's wrong?"Kin'emon insisted stubbornly, "It doesn't hurt!!!"In the water, a shark bit Kin'emon's upper body, but Sanji kicked it out before it could swallow him.The duck that reached its mouth flew away; the shark originally wanted to chase Sanji, but then it encountered the poison and died.Sanji was also surrounded by poison. In the nick of time, as the poison closed in, he used Air Compression Technique to fly out of the water.Brook, despite being a skeleton, had tears welling up in his eye sockets, "Sanji Brother!!"Zoro remained tsundere, "Oh ho, he actually found him."Xiaobai showed no reaction, while Satoru nodded, seeing this as expected, and tossed the clothing he was holding to Sanji.Kin'emon was so moved that snot and tears flowed freely."This feeling... is truly beyond words!!!""Though this body is something I was born with... I have never felt such immense joy for it before!!"Kin'emon was finally pieced back together as a whole.As mentioned before, he is very tall, similar to Brook, standing over 2.5 meters.In response, Satoru clicked his tongue.Xiaobai just looked at Satoru, smiling without speaking."My name is Kin'emon!!""My birthplace is Kuri in Wano Country!""May I ask the name of the Curly-Brow Hero?"Sanji, now dressed, stood beside Satoru, warming himself by the flames emitted from Satoru's palm. However, he couldn't warm up instantly, so he was still shivering."Phew... I'm Sanji. What hero?! You just got your body back and you're already being slick!""Have you forgotten all the ridiculous things you said to me earlier, taking advantage of the fact that you couldn't move?"Sanji suddenly pointed at Kin'emon and cursed.A bit... Ghost Ship style... Kin'emon lowered his head, realizing his mistake."Absolutely... I will not forget!!""This great kindness!! I shall never forget it!! I am eternally grateful!!!""Please forgive my previous suspicion toward all of you before my body was restored!!"Kin'emon immediately knelt down, as Wano Country has the "Kneeling" tribe etiquette.Sanji pulled him up, telling him not to bother with that. Doesn't he know a man's knees are worth gold? Don't think I won't hit you just because you do this!Satoru spoke up, steering the conversation back to business."Alright, no need to argue about trivial things. The samurai is whole, so you should go back and rendezvous with Luffy and the others.""You all go first. Leave this big guy for Xiaobai and me to handle."Xiaobai smiled brightly, "That's right, hurry up and go."Kin'emon was also eager to leave, "Exactly!! I still have to rescue my worthless son!"Satoru replied with a smile, "You will rescue... your son."An interesting pause.Kin'emon didn't think much of it, "Then I shall take your auspicious words.""Also, that matter about you returning from Hell? That must be a joke, right?"Of course it wasn't a joke, Satoru stated."A gentleman never jokes. I did die and was resurrected. The time before my resurrection was spent in Hell.""This skeleton gentleman is also someone who was resurrected, but he didn't stay in Hell as long as I did."Brook tipped his hat, "Yohohoho, that's right, that's me."Kin'emon looked very excited."A technique to bring the dead back to life actually exists!!!""Then..."Satoru knew what Kin'emon wanted to ask."No.""This 'technique' only works for Brook and me, and it can only take effect once. Therefore, no."The hope that had appeared in Kin'emon's eyes instantly vanished."Is that so... I understand..."
Chapter 865: Just Like Playing BadmintonAmong the four routes the Straw Hat Pirates took on Punk Hazard, three had made progress.With the help of Law, Chopper successfully infiltrated the research facility and even brought Satoru's clone inside, but Law had been captured by Vergo.In the battle at the main gate of the research facility, because they didn't understand Caesar's devil fruit, they were tricked by him. Luffy, Robin, Franky, as well as the Marines Smoker and Tashigi—all five of them were defeated and captured.At the Ice-and-Fire Lake, Kin'emon gathered his body parts. Satoru and Little White remained behind to deal with the giant venomous Slime, while the others returned to regroup with Luffy and the others to rescue Kin'emon's "son."That left only the final route without any progress....Punk Hazard - Ruins of the First and Second Research Buildings."Unlock the chains!! Big brothers!!""Unlock the chains!!!"The sleeping children woke up again, still in a berserk state, and Usopp's Sleep Star was no longer effective.Brownbeard, who was tied up on the other side, immediately moved further away, fearing that these children would grab and gnaw on him."I told you these kids are sick!"As for why the Sleep Star didn't work, Usoppguessed, "It must be because the pain from withdrawal is stronger than the drowsiness!!""Then what should we do!!"Nami was a bit panicked; they couldn't fight the children, and naturally, they couldn't let themselves be hit either!!The two exchanged a glance and, with instant tacit understanding, shifted their gaze to Satoru.Satoru remarked, "I'm not omnipotent..."Nami interrupted him; she knew Satoru's character well enough. "Please! Stop talking nonsense!"Satoru smiled. "Alright, I do have a method, let's give it a try."Satoru floated in front of the children and extended his right hand, his bracelet transforming into a pocket watch.Satoru's method was: hypnosis."Children!"Satoru shouted, stunning the children."Look over here... watch this watch...""You have already eaten the candy...""You have already eaten the candy..."As Satoru droned on, the children slowly calmed down, chanting, "We have already eaten the candy..."Brownbeard: "We have already eaten the candy..."Usopp retorted, "How did even you get caught in it!"Nami breathed a sigh of relief. "Whew... I didn't expect it to actually work. As expected of you, Satoru."Before Satoru could answer, Nami and Usopp heard a "Shurorororo!!" laugh coming from behind them.The two were startled and immediately turned around to look.Who else could it be but Caesar? He certainly couldn't bear to lose these precious "research materials."And because he had just defeated Luffy, Smoker, and the others, he was feeling incredibly confident right now."Children, are you alright?""Alright, let's go back to the research institute. It's very dangerous here.""Hm? Children?"Caesar held candy in his hand, but the children didn't react. Only then did he notice their unusual, dazed appearance."What did you do?"Caesar asked.Nami countered, "I should be asking you what you did!! What exactly did you make these children eat?""They are all longing to go home. Their parents must be searching everywhere for their whereabouts. I will definitely take these children away from here!!"Caesar laughed upon hearing this. "Shurorororo!! How naive! Young lady, do you think you can just take them away whenever you want?""What a hassle. I thought I could lure them back with candy, but they're dazed? Forget it, I'll just knock them out and have someone take them back."Caesar spoke to himself, fully confident that things would proceed as he said."Calling others naive, you're quite naive yourself, aren't you?"Satoru came to Nami and Usopp's side. With him there, the two felt very secure."I know you. You're a big celebrity! Copy cat Satoru!"Caesar said after looking at Satoru carefully."You're quite famous too, Caesar. The culprit behind the explosion at Punk Hazard four years ago. The fact that you could so shamelessly pin it on Vegapunk—I admire that level of shamelessness."Satoru's words made Caesar's smile vanish instantly. "You know the truth about that time?!""How could you know?"He wasn't smiling, but Satoru was. "Guessed it.""You!"Caesar was enraged. "Heh, since you know the truth, I can't let you leave here alive!""Firebird Star!"Usopp suddenly launched a sneak attack.However, the Firebird Star was useless when it passed through Caesar; to be precise, it extinguished the moment it touched him."You seem to know that I am a Gas-Gas Fruit user.""It's a pity that your fire extinguished before it could touch me.""Not only poison gas is gas; the air floating here is also entirely gas!! Within a certain range, I can even control the air!!""If I extract all the oxygen, fire naturally cannot burn, and you won't be able to breathe either!!""Just like this!!"Caesar said, preparing to float over.Satoru kicked him right in the face, sending him flying back."Just like that?"Caesar clutched his nose, which was bleeding."You also possess Armament Haki!!"Satoru shrugged slightly. "Uh-huh...""So what if you have Armament Haki!!"Caesar charged again. As long as he was within a certain range! He could extract the oxygen! He was invincible!!Then he was kicked back by Satoru again. Although he had entered Caesar's oxygen-free range, holding his breath for a short time was nothing. By kicking this guy back, wouldn't there be oxygen again?Caesar didn't believe it and approached again, only to be kicked back.This happened three times, just like playing badminton, and Caesar finally accepted the reality."Damn it!!""Gas Castanet!!"Since he couldn't get close, Caesar decided to attack from a distance.He took out the castanets and pressed them. A violent explosion occurred on Satoru's side, but before the explosion, Satoru had pushed Usopp and Nami away in time."Satoru!!"Nami and Usopp shouted in worry.Then they heard Satoru reply."I'm here."Just like Luffy did when facing an explosion, Satoruappeared behind Caesar.Caesar was startled just the same, but he was delighted that Satoru had entered his control range and immediately extracted the surrounding oxygen.Satoru remained calm. He raised his arm, and his bracelet transformed into an oxygen tank with a mask. Putting on the mask, Satoru stood calmly in front of Caesar and, amidst Caesar's surprised gaze, punched him right in the abdomen.