Chapter 86: Tempting Nico Robin — Obtaining Crucial Intelligence!New2 days ago
"How I learned about it isn't something you need to concern yourself with."
Luo Qi smiled and continued in a low voice.
"All you need to do is tell me Crocodile's plans."
"In exchange, I'll take you to the Poneglyph."
"It's somewhere in this country. You'll soon find out whether I'm telling the truth."
Hearing that the Poneglyph was located in Alabasta, Nico Robin felt a wave of disappointment.
At the same time, she began questioning Luo Qi's true motives for helping Princess Vivi.
After all, one of the reasons Crocodile wanted to seize control of Alabasta was to obtain information about an ancient weapon supposedly recorded on a Poneglyph hidden within the kingdom.
That was also one of the primary reasons he'd recruited Robin as his assistant.
Now that Luo Qi had mentioned a Poneglyph in Alabasta, Robin naturally assumed he was referring to the very same stone Crocodile was searching for.
However...
"I'm not talking about the Poneglyph hidden beneath Alabasta's royal palace."
"...!"
Robin's expression changed.
Luo Qi guessed what Robin was thinking from her silence.
"I'm talking about another Poneglyph located somewhere in this kingdom."
He smiled mysteriously.
"And perhaps that particular Poneglyph contains the information you're truly searching for."
"What?!"
Robin's beautiful eyes widened.
She stared at Luo Qi in disbelief.
"How could you possibly know—"
"Shh!"
Luo Qi immediately covered her mouth with his hand.
"Keep your voice down!"
He leaned closer and whispered into her ear.
"To tell you the truth, I've received information about some ancient ruins buried beneath a certain desert region in Alabasta."
"And inside those ruins, there's a Poneglyph."
He looked directly into her eyes.
"I've shown you I'm acting in good faith, Miss Robin."
"I hope you won't disappoint me."
Naturally, Luo Qi had no particular desire to involve himself with the Poneglyphs.
If possible, he would have preferred to avoid them entirely.
After all, if the Marines or the World Government discovered that he possessed information about the Poneglyphs, he might end up becoming a highly wanted criminal himself!
Just like Nico Robin.
However, Luo Qi needed information about Crocodile's plans.
And he understood that ordinary threats or promises wouldn't be enough to convince Robin to cooperate.
Therefore, he had decided to use his knowledge of Alabasta's other Poneglyph as leverage.
...
Robin stared deeply into Luo Qi's eyes.
One minute passed.
Then another.
Only after two or three minutes did she finally speak.
"If I refuse to tell you anything, I suppose you won't let me leave, will you?"
Luo Qi smiled without answering.
"..."
Robin sighed softly.
"Very well."
"I'll tell you what I know."
"But I hope you'll remember the promise you just made."
Her expression gradually became serious.
"Crocodile already knows about you."
Luo Qi narrowed his eyes.
Robin continued.
"Your identity, your abilities, the abilities of your companions, and even what happened with Mikita..."
"He knows all of it."
"..."
Luo Qi's expression stiffened.
"According to what I heard, a mysterious man concealed his appearance and passed that information to Crocodile through a little girl."
Robin looked at him meaningfully.
"So if you were hoping Crocodile would underestimate you..."
"I'm afraid you're going to be disappointed."
...
What?!
Luo Qi's expression darkened.
Someone leaked information about me?
But who in this world would know so much about my abilities and companions?
His thoughts raced.
Then, a possibility suddenly occurred to him.
Wait a minute...
Could it have been a challenger from another country?
The more he considered it, the more likely that explanation seemed.
After all, nobody native to the One Piece world should possess such detailed information about him and his companions!
Especially since he had only recently arrived in Alabasta.
However, challengers from other countries were different.
They could receive information from their respective governments.
And those governments could watch Luo Qi's activities through Dragon Kingdom's livestream!
So that's what happened.
Luo Qi finally understood.
Someone from the real world had deliberately revealed his information to Crocodile!
...
[HOLY CRAP! IT'S CONFIRMED!]
[That challenger from the Never-Setting Sun Country really was trying to harm Brother Qi!]
[DAMN IT! How dare that bastard do something like this?! Isn't he afraid Brother Qi will kill him?!]
[It's obvious his government ordered him to do it! Those bastards actually dared to interfere with Brother Qi's plans!]
[Unbelievable! They're deliberately trying to get our challenger killed!]
...
Naturally, Robin's explanation had also been heard by the viewers watching Luo Qi's livestream.
The people of Dragon Kingdom immediately erupted in anger!
Countless furious viewers rushed into the Never-Setting Sun Country's livestream and began demanding explanations.
Meanwhile, Luo Qi had no intention of dwelling on what was happening in the real world.
He had a far more immediate problem to consider.
Crocodile already knows everything about me.
That's troublesome.
Luo Qi frowned.
He didn't know exactly how powerful Crocodile would be if the Warlord took his opponent seriously from the beginning.
However, one thing was certain.
Crocodile wasn't weak!
After all, the man had caused considerable chaos during the Summit War at Marineford!
Someone capable of participating in a battle of that magnitude couldn't possibly be dismissed as an ordinary opponent.
And now that Crocodile had advance knowledge of Luo Qi's abilities, defeating him would undoubtedly become more difficult.
"Troublesome."
Luo Qi sighed.
Then, he turned around and began walking toward the entrance of the alley.
"Thanks for the information, Nico Robin."
"Now that I know what's happening, I won't make the mistake of underestimating the situation."
He casually waved a hand over his shoulder.
"And don't worry."
"Once this matter is settled, I'll fulfill my promise."
...
"You're letting me leave just like that?"
Robin frowned slightly.
She hadn't expected Luo Qi to release her so easily.
"Aren't you worried I'll tell Crocodile about our conversation?"
Luo Qi stopped walking.
The corners of his mouth curved upward.
"I trust my own judgment."
"Besides..."
He glanced back at her.
"If you tell Crocodile what we discussed, I seriously doubt he'll let you live."
"..."
Robin pressed her lips together.
She couldn't deny that he had a point.
After all, if Crocodile discovered that she had been secretly negotiating with someone who intended to kill him, the consequences would be severe.
Robin watched as Luo Qi continued toward the alley's exit.
Just as he was about to disappear from sight, she suddenly spoke.
"Crocodile has arranged for a bomb to be planted in the capital's central square."
Luo Qi stopped.
Robin continued calmly.
"It's powerful enough to kill one hundred thousand people."
"..."
"And another thing."
"You can forget about using Miss Valentine to lead you to Spider's Cafe to find the other senior agents of Baroque Works."
Luo Qi slowly turned around.
Robin smiled faintly.
"Some of those agents have already infiltrated the rebel army."
"The others have gathered around Crocodile."
"Right now, they're preparing to deal with you and your companions."
"..."
Luo Qi looked at her.
Then, a smile appeared on his face.
"Thanks."
However, Robin shook her head.
"I think you've misunderstood something, Luo Qi."
"I'm not helping you."
She smiled.
"I simply don't want you to die before I obtain what I'm looking for."
Luo Qi chuckled.
"Fair enough."
"There's something else I'm curious about, though."
Robin crossed her arms.
"Why are you so determined to help Princess Vivi?"
"If Crocodile didn't know about your abilities beforehand, perhaps you and your companions would have had a reasonable chance of defeating him."
"But now that he knows what you're capable of..."
"Why don't you simply abandon Vivi?"
Robin studied his expression.
"You haven't known her for very long, have you?"
"Why would you take such an enormous risk for someone you barely know?"
For a moment, Luo Qi remained silent.
Then, he smiled.
He raised his thumb and pointed toward himself.
"Because I made a promise."
"..."
"Since I agreed to help Vivi, I'll do everything I can to see it through."
His smile widened.
"And more importantly..."
"Who says we're definitely going to lose against Crocodile?"
Robin looked at him in surprise.
However, before she could respond, Luo Qi turned around and continued walking.
"See you around, Nico Robin."
With that, he left the alley.
...
"What a strange man."
Robin shook her head.
For a moment, she stared at the empty passage where Luo Qi had disappeared.
Then, she turned around.
Her figure gradually vanished into the surrounding shadows.
...
[As expected of Brother Qi! He deliberately acted as though he was leaving and managed to obtain even more information from Nico Robin!]
[I actually thought he should capture her and take her along with him! Good thing he didn't do that. Otherwise, she might never have revealed those additional details!]
[A bomb capable of killing one hundred thousand people?! If something like that existed in the real world, wouldn't it be comparable to an incredibly powerful missile?!]
[Maybe the number is exaggerated? If a bomb really has that much destructive power, the situation in Alabasta is even more dangerous than we thought!]
[Fortunately, Brother Qi now knows exactly what Crocodile is planning! He should be able to avoid the worst dangers and adjust his strategy accordingly!]
[Is nobody else curious about what Brother Qi whispered into Nico Robin's ear? Whatever he said must have been incredibly important for her to reveal so much information!]
[I'm curious too, but I'm sure Brother Qi had a good reason for keeping it private.]
[Maybe he was deliberately preventing challengers from other countries from obtaining that information and using it against him again!]
...
After watching Nico Robin reveal Crocodile's plans, the viewers from Dragon Kingdom finally breathed sighs of relief.
At the very least, Luo Qi now knew that his enemies were preparing an ambush.
He also understood that Crocodile possessed detailed information about his abilities and companions.
With that knowledge, Luo Qi could adjust his plans and avoid walking blindly into danger.
Meanwhile...
Back in the Never-Setting Sun Country, its leader and several citizens were wearing deeply troubled expressions.
Their original plan had been to secretly provide Crocodile with enough information to eliminate Luo Qi.
And for a while, it had seemed that their scheme had an excellent chance of succeeding.
But now...
Nico Robin had exposed everything!
The situation was beginning to change.
And their carefully arranged plan to eliminate Luo Qi might be about to take an entirely unexpected turn.
Chapter 87: Ambushed on the Road — An Encounter with the Desert Crocodile!New2 days ago
"Luo Qi! So this is where you were!"
Just as Luo Qi stepped out of the deserted alley, Baby 5's familiar voice reached his ears.
He turned around.
Baby 5 had changed out of her signature maid outfit and was now wearing a beautiful dancer's costume inspired by Alabasta's traditional clothing.
She happily ran toward him.
"Luo Qi, look!"
"Do I look pretty in this?"
Baby 5 twirled around in front of him.
Her sweet smile, combined with the exotic charm of her new outfit, immediately caught Luo Qi's attention.
"Of course!"
Luo Qi nodded with a smile.
"Baby 5, you'd look beautiful in anything."
"Hehehe!"
"Luo Qi, you really know how to compliment a girl!"
Baby 5's lips curved into a delighted smile.
She moved closer to Luo Qi, her face practically glowing with happiness.
"Captain Luo Qi!"
"Don't just look at Baby 5!"
Nami suddenly approached, pulling Nojiko along with her.
"Take a look at us too!"
"What do you think?"
The two sisters had also changed into their new outfits.
Nami's clothing featured orange as its primary color, while Nojiko had chosen a beautiful blue-themed outfit.
Luo Qi looked at them appreciatively.
"Naturally, Nami and Nojiko look beautiful too."
He nodded with a smile.
"Honestly..."
Nami sighed.
"Why do I get the feeling that your compliments for us are a lot less enthusiastic than the ones you give Baby 5?"
"Well, there's nothing we can do about that."
Reiju approached with an amused expression.
"After all, Baby 5 has been following Captain Luo Qi longer than any of us."
Hearing this, Luo Qi turned toward her.
"Speaking of which, Reiju..."
"You didn't change into a dancer's outfit?"
Reiju smiled.
"Considering that we're now in Crocodile's territory, I think it's better if I continue wearing my Raid Suit."
"Besides, my Raid Suit is perfectly capable of adapting to the desert climate."
"I don't need to worry about the scorching sun."
Luo Qi nodded.
"That's probably for the best."
"After all, we might end up fighting soon."
As he spoke, his expression gradually became serious.
"Actually, there's something important I need to tell everyone."
Luo Qi then explained the intelligence he had just obtained from Nico Robin.
He told his companions that Crocodile had learned about their identities and abilities.
He also revealed that the rebel army had begun advancing toward the capital ahead of schedule.
Furthermore, Crocodile had arranged for a powerful bomb to be planted in the capital's central square!
As Luo Qi continued explaining, the relaxed expressions on Nami and the others' faces gradually disappeared.
They became increasingly alarmed.
However, Vivi and Igaram reacted even more strongly!
The moment they learned that the rebel army was already approaching the capital, their expressions changed drastically.
"H-How..."
"How could this happen?!"
Vivi covered her mouth with both hands.
Her eyes widened in disbelief.
Tears began gathering at the corners of her eyes.
The rebel army is already approaching the capital?!
Doesn't that mean the fighting could begin at any moment?!
Seeing her distress, Luo Qi gently reached out and wiped away her tears.
"This situation is partly my responsibility."
His voice was calm.
"But don't worry, Vivi."
"We'll definitely help you deal with Crocodile."
"Now that we know what he's planning, we can make the necessary preparations."
Vivi raised her head.
Her tear-filled eyes looked directly at Luo Qi.
"But..."
"If the rebel army and the royal army start fighting in the capital, countless innocent people will die!"
"I know."
Luo Qi nodded firmly.
"That's why we're going to head straight for the capital as quickly as possible."
"Since Crocodile is also somewhere near the capital, we'll make that our immediate destination."
He continued seriously.
"If we can defeat Crocodile before the rebel army and royal army begin fighting, it should make stopping the rebellion much easier."
"As for the bomb hidden in the city..."
"I'll find a way to locate that too."
Hearing his reassuring words, Vivi took a deep breath.
Gradually, she began calming down.
"You're right, Luo Qi."
She wiped the remaining tears from her eyes.
"Panicking won't solve anything."
"We need to reach the capital as quickly as possible!"
Seeing her regain her composure, Luo Qi smiled and gently patted her shoulder.
Then, he turned toward Mikita.
"Mikita."
"Hm?"
Miss Valentine immediately looked at him.
"Since the senior agents of Baroque Works are no longer at Spider's Cafe, there's no reason for you to continue accompanying us."
"Besides, you've already become a target of the organization yourself."
Luo Qi paused briefly.
"So..."
"You're free to go."
"...!"
Mikita froze.
For a moment, she could hardly believe what she'd heard.
"C-Captain Luo Qi..."
"Are you really letting me leave?"
"Of course."
Luo Qi nodded.
"Although you didn't end up helping me the way I'd originally intended, I promised to release you."
"And I have no intention of breaking that promise."
He smiled.
"Unless, of course, you'd rather come with us and fight Crocodile?"
"!"
Mikita's body immediately trembled.
Fight Crocodile?!
Absolutely not!
Although she'd spent several days witnessing the extraordinary strength of Luo Qi and his companions, that didn't mean she wanted to confront one of the Seven Warlords of the Sea!
After all, she wasn't even a genuine member of Luo Qi's crew.
There was no reason for her to risk her life fighting Crocodile!
"Th-Thank you, Captain Luo Qi!"
Mikita hurriedly bowed.
"I'll be leaving now!"
With that, she turned around, grabbed Miss Goldenweek's hand, and hurried toward the coastline.
The two soon disappeared into the distance.
...
Meanwhile, Tashigi watched their departure with a puzzled expression.
She glanced toward Mikita and Miss Goldenweek.
Then, she looked toward Luo Qi, who was already discussing their next steps with Law and the others.
How strange...
Just what exactly is the relationship between those two women and Captain Luo Qi's crew?
For some reason, Tashigi felt that there was more to the situation than she'd been told.
However, she couldn't quite figure it out.
"Tashigi!"
"Ah!"
Luo Qi's sudden voice startled her.
She immediately turned around.
"C-Captain Luo Qi!"
"Did you need something?"
"Nothing serious."
Luo Qi smiled.
"We're about to leave, that's all."
Then, he glanced at her new outfit.
"Oh, and one more thing."
"You look pretty good in that dancer's outfit."
"Hehehe."
After saying that, Luo Qi turned around and headed off with his companions.
"..."
Tashigi's cheeks immediately turned red.
She stood there for a moment, embarrassed by the unexpected compliment.
Then, seeing that Luo Qi and the others were already walking away, she hurried after them.
And just like that, the group began making their way toward Alabasta's capital.
...
Meanwhile, somewhere along the route to the capital.
"..."
"So Luo Qi and Vivi have already arrived?"
Crocodile slowly lowered the Den Den Mushi in his hand.
Then, he turned toward the people waiting behind him.
"Our guests have arrived."
His lips curved into a cold smile.
"It's time for us to make our move."
The others nodded.
Without hesitation, they picked up their weapons and followed Crocodile.
...
After learning about the situation in Alabasta's capital, Luo Qi and his companions traveled as quickly as possible.
They had no intention of wasting time.
Along the way, they continued discussing the strategies they would use when confronting Crocodile.
After all, their opponent was a Logia-type Devil Fruit user!
And this time, Crocodile already knew about their abilities.
That meant they needed to prepare carefully.
As the group traveled through the desert, Luo Qi occasionally spread out his Observation Haki.
However, he wasn't only searching for possible enemies.
He also hadn't forgotten his promise to Nico Robin!
The ancient ruins...
If I remember correctly, they should be buried somewhere beneath the desert.
From time to time, Luo Qi extended his senses underground, attempting to locate anything resembling an ancient structure.
And perhaps fortune was smiling upon him.
Because after searching for some time...
He actually detected something unusual beneath the sand!
Hm?
Luo Qi's eyes narrowed slightly.
That place...
Could it be an ancient ruin?
The structure buried beneath the desert certainly seemed suspicious.
Unfortunately, Tashigi was still traveling with the group.
Considering her identity as a Marine, Luo Qi didn't think it would be wise to investigate the location too thoroughly right now.
After all, he had no desire to attract the World Government's attention by openly searching for Poneglyphs.
Therefore, he silently remembered the location.
I'll come back and investigate after we've finished dealing with Alabasta's problems.
With that decision made, Luo Qi continued traveling with his companions.
...
Approximately half an hour later.
The group was still making its way through the desert.
However, Luo Qi suddenly stopped walking.
"..."
His expression changed.
"Hm?"
Vivi looked toward him in confusion.
"What's wrong, Luo Qi?"
"Aren't we supposed to be hurrying toward the capital?"
"Careful!"
Luo Qi suddenly stepped forward!
He immediately positioned himself in front of Vivi, shielding her with his body.
At the same time—
Shing!
The Sandai Kitetsu flashed out of its sheath!
Luo Qi swung his sword forward with tremendous force!
WHOOSH!
A brilliant silver-white flying sword slash erupted from the blade!
The crescent-shaped sword energy tore through the air, heading straight toward a strange disturbance rapidly approaching them across the desert!
A wave of sand!
And it was moving at an astonishing speed!
BOOOOM!
The sword energy collided with the incoming sand wave!
A deafening explosion shook the surrounding desert!
Countless grains of sand were blasted outward in every direction!
A thick cloud of dust rose into the air, temporarily obscuring the group's vision.
"W-What?!"
Vivi clasped her hands together.
She stared nervously toward the explosion.
"What just happened?!"
"Enemies."
Luo Qi tightened his grip on the Sandai Kitetsu.
His gaze remained fixed on the cloud of sand ahead.
"Everyone, get ready."
"We'll follow the strategy we discussed earlier."
Then, he glanced toward Tashigi.
"Tashigi, I'll need your help in the upcoming battle too."
"Understood, Captain Luo Qi!"
Tashigi nodded firmly.
Shing!
She immediately drew her sword, Shigure, from its sheath.
Her expression became serious as she turned toward the approaching threat.
...
Gradually, the airborne sand began settling.
The thick cloud slowly dispersed.
And as the surroundings became visible again, several figures appeared in front of Luo Qi's group.
At the center stood a tall man with slicked-back dark hair.
A cigar rested between his lips.
A long coat hung from his shoulders, and a massive golden hook replaced one of his hands.
It was a figure Luo Qi had fully expected to encounter sooner or later.
Sir Crocodile!
One of the Seven Warlords of the Sea!
"Hehehe..."
Crocodile chuckled coldly.
"Finally..."
"I've been waiting for you, Luo Qi."
He slowly approached, his cigar still hanging from his mouth.
"I suppose I shouldn't be surprised."
"You're a man who managed to cross swords with Hawkeye Mihawk, after all."
Crocodile glanced toward the spot where his sand attack had been destroyed.
"To think you could actually block that attack of mine."
"Not bad."
Behind Crocodile stood three senior agents of Baroque Works.
Mr. 1!
Mr. 4!
Miss Merry Christmas!
And that wasn't all.
Behind those three stood more than a hundred armed members of Baroque Works!
Every one of them was staring toward Luo Qi and his companions, weapons at the ready.
The entire group had clearly been waiting for their arrival.
Crocodile slowly exhaled a cloud of smoke.
A sinister smile appeared on his face.
The ambush had begun.
Chapter 88: Smoker Captured — Ace Makes an Unexpected Appearance!New2 days ago
[HOLY CRAP! Crocodile has appeared!]
[Already?! Brother Qi hasn't even reached Alabasta's capital yet!]
[Isn't it obvious? Crocodile wants to eliminate Brother Qi and his companions before they can reach the capital!]
[I'm so nervous! Just watching this is making my heart race! Crocodile was controlling sand earlier, wasn't he? They're surrounded by desert! This environment is practically perfect for him! Isn't Brother Qi at a huge disadvantage?!]
[WAIT! WHAT AM I LOOKING AT?! Crocodile just threw someone onto the ground!]
[IS THAT CAPTAIN SMOKER?!]
[How did Smoker end up in Crocodile's hands?! And why does he look so badly injured?!]
...
Meanwhile, in the One Piece world.
Luo Qi and Crocodile faced each other across the desert.
However, the situation had suddenly become far more complicated.
"CAPTAIN SMOKER?!"
Tashigi's eyes widened in horror.
"Why are you here?!"
The man Crocodile had casually thrown onto the sand was none other than Smoker!
His body was covered in injuries.
Fresh blood streamed down his forehead, staining his face.
He looked as though he had suffered a brutal defeat!
Seeing her superior in such a miserable condition, Tashigi's heart tightened.
Without hesitation, she prepared to rush forward and rescue him.
However—
"Tashigi, wait!"
Luo Qi immediately extended his arm, blocking her path.
"Don't rush in recklessly!"
"You'll only get yourself hurt!"
Although Luo Qi didn't know exactly how Smoker had fallen into Crocodile's hands, he understood one thing perfectly well.
The situation had become extremely dangerous!
If he allowed Crocodile to use Smoker as a hostage, even a battle they might otherwise have won could end in defeat.
My current Physique is 9,560.
And I still have 900 Points remaining.
Luo Qi quickly considered his options.
If I exchange all my Points for additional Physique, would that improve my chances of winning?
Or should I test Crocodile's strength first?
After thinking about it briefly, Luo Qi decided against immediately spending his Points.
He pushed the thought aside for the moment.
"Captain Luo Qi!"
Tashigi looked at him anxiously.
"Please, let me go over there!"
"Captain Smoker's condition looks terrible!"
"Tashigi!"
Suddenly, Smoker forced himself to shout.
"LISTEN TO LUO QI!"
"DON'T WORRY ABOUT ME!"
"But Captain Smoker..."
Tashigi hesitated.
However, Smoker struggled to raise his head.
His bloodshot eyes settled on Luo Qi.
"Luo Qi..."
"Don't forget our agreement!"
"You promised me..."
"You'd keep Tashigi safe!"
Luo Qi frowned.
Then, he turned toward Law.
Their eyes met.
Law immediately understood.
He nodded and took a step forward, preparing to activate his Devil Fruit ability.
However—
"I'd advise you not to make any reckless moves."
Crocodile's cold voice suddenly interrupted them.
He raised his foot and pressed it firmly against Smoker's back.
Then, he looked directly at Law.
"I know what your Devil Fruit can do."
Crocodile's lips curved into a sinister smile.
"If you're planning to use your ability to exchange Smoker's position with someone else's..."
"I'm rather curious."
"Which one of your companions are you planning to send over here in his place?"
"...!"
Law immediately stopped.
For a moment, he hesitated.
Although he already knew Crocodile possessed some information about his abilities, he hadn't expected the Warlord to understand them in such detail!
Even his ability to exchange people's positions had been exposed!
This made rescuing Smoker considerably more difficult.
...
"Don't..."
Smoker struggled to speak.
"Don't worry about me!"
His voice was hoarse.
"This is my fault, Luo Qi!"
"I'm the one who became a burden!"
He clenched his teeth.
"But listen carefully..."
"If you end up losing to Crocodile because of me..."
"I'LL NEVER FORGIVE YOU!"
As soon as he finished shouting, Smoker coughed violently.
COUGH!
A mouthful of blood spilled from his lips!
However, despite his injuries, his bloodshot eyes remained firmly fixed on Luo Qi.
He clearly had no intention of allowing himself to become the reason for their defeat.
...
"Heh."
Crocodile glanced down at Smoker.
"I'll give you credit for one thing."
"At least you've got some backbone."
His expression turned cold.
"Unfortunately, you made a serious mistake."
"You shouldn't have come investigating me on your own."
Crocodile looked toward Luo Qi.
"Since I already knew what you people were planning, did you really think I'd allow this Marine to leave?"
"..."
Hearing those words, Luo Qi finally understood how Smoker had ended up in such a miserable situation.
So that's what happened.
The challenger from another country leaked information about me to Crocodile.
In that case, he probably also revealed my conversation with Smoker!
After all, Luo Qi had openly discussed Crocodile's conspiracy with Smoker aboard the Explorer.
That conversation had been broadcast to the viewers on Blue Star.
Naturally, someone could have passed that information to Crocodile.
And if Crocodile knew Smoker intended to investigate him...
Of course he'd prepare an ambush.
No wonder Smoker got captured.
...
"Luo Qi."
Seeing that Luo Qi remained silent, Crocodile suddenly spoke again.
"There's something I've been wondering about."
His gaze turned cold.
"Why are you so determined to interfere with my plans?"
It was the same question Nico Robin had asked earlier.
Crocodile simply couldn't understand why a bounty hunter would go to such lengths for Princess Vivi.
"Did Princess Vivi promise you an enormous fortune?"
He sneered.
"Or perhaps..."
"She offered you some kind of authority over Alabasta?"
Clearly, Crocodile was curious about the man who had repeatedly disrupted his operations.
...
Luo Qi pressed his lips together.
While considering how to respond, he continued searching for an opportunity to rescue Smoker.
However, just as he was about to speak—
WHOOSH!
A scorching wave of heat suddenly erupted from somewhere in the distance!
Luo Qi's expression changed.
At almost the same moment, an unfamiliar voice rang out across the desert.
"FIRE FIST!"
BOOOOOOM!
A massive torrent of blazing flames suddenly surged toward Crocodile!
The attack was incredibly fast!
In the blink of an eye, the scorching flames had already reached the Warlord!
"...!"
Crocodile's eyes narrowed sharply.
His attention had been focused entirely on Luo Qi.
He hadn't expected someone else to suddenly launch an attack!
Without hesitation, Crocodile retreated.
WHOOSH!
His body rapidly moved backward, narrowly avoiding the incoming flames!
A massive fireball swept across the desert.
However, despite passing directly above Smoker, it didn't injure him!
The attack had been aimed at Crocodile alone!
...
Now!
Luo Qi's eyes flashed.
He immediately seized the opportunity!
Shave!
BOOM!
His feet struck the ground with tremendous force!
In the next instant, his figure vanished!
Moving like a ghost, Luo Qi appeared directly beside the injured Smoker!
Before Crocodile could regain control of the situation, Luo Qi grabbed the Marine Captain and swiftly retreated!
WHOOSH!
He carried Smoker back to his companions!
"Law!"
"Give this guy emergency treatment!"
Luo Qi immediately handed the injured Marine over to his doctor.
"Got it!"
Law didn't waste a second.
He quickly began examining Smoker's injuries and performing emergency medical treatment on the spot.
"CAPTAIN SMOKER!"
Seeing her superior safely brought back, Tashigi finally breathed a sigh of relief.
She looked toward Luo Qi with unmistakable gratitude.
"Thank you, Captain Luo Qi!"
However, Luo Qi wasn't paying attention to her.
His gaze had already shifted elsewhere.
More precisely...
Toward the man who had suddenly appeared between him and Crocodile!
The newcomer stood amid the lingering flames.
And Luo Qi recognized him immediately!
No way...
His eyes widened slightly.
Fire Fist Ace!
Portgas D. Ace!
The commander of the Whitebeard Pirates' Second Division!
The very pirate Smoker had been searching for!
Luo Qi stared at the unexpected arrival, completely puzzled.
Fire Fist Ace?!
Why the hell is this guy here?!
Chapter 89: Ace, How About Doing Me a Favor?New2 days ago
"You're..."
"Portgas D. Ace! Fire Fist Ace, commander of the Whitebeard Pirates' Second Division!"
As the flames gradually dispersed, Crocodile finally got a clear look at the man standing before him.
But the moment he recognized Ace, his face twisted in anger!
"Why are you here in Alabasta?!"
"And you're a pirate! Why the hell are you helping a Marine?!"
"Don't misunderstand."
Ace casually adjusted his hat with a flame-covered finger.
"I'm not here to help the Marines."
"I just wanted to repay Luo Qi for something he did for me."
As he spoke, Ace turned toward Luo Qi with a broad smile.
"..."
Luo Qi frowned slightly.
He couldn't understand why Ace would say something like that.
Wait a minute...
A possibility suddenly flashed through his mind!
Could Ace have already discovered that Sabo is still alive?!
The more Luo Qi thought about it, the more certain he became.
That's right!
That's the only explanation for why Ace would willingly help me!
The information I gave Kuma must have set off a chain reaction.
Ace and Sabo have probably already reunited!
Realizing this, Luo Qi couldn't stop the corners of his mouth from curling upward.
Talk about getting exactly what I needed at the perfect moment!
I never expected something like this to happen to me!
Luo Qi had complete confidence in Ace's strength.
Although the title of Seven Warlords of the Sea carried considerable prestige, that didn't mean every Warlord was stronger than Ace.
If Ace was willing to fight Crocodile, Luo Qi believed the Desert King wouldn't be able to avoid defeat for long!
...
[As expected of Brother Qi! We're still thinking on the first level, while he's already reached the fifth!]
[A pirate with a bounty of 550 million Berries is actually Brother Qi's ally! No wonder he wasn't interested in helping Smoker capture Ace!]
[Ace helping Brother Qi is certainly unexpected, but why would he do that? The two of them haven't even met before, have they?]
[Maybe Brother Qi helped someone in the past, and that person happened to be Ace's friend or family member?]
[That seems like the only reasonable explanation!]
...
"Captain Luo Qi..."
Tashigi stared at him in astonishment.
"You actually know Fire Fist Ace?!"
She wasn't the only one surprised.
Luo Qi's companions were equally bewildered!
They had never heard their captain mention any connection to the Whitebeard Pirates.
"Don't get the wrong idea."
Before Luo Qi could respond, Ace spoke first.
"This is actually the first time Luo Qi and I have met."
"What?!"
Crocodile's expression darkened further.
"If you've never met him before, why are you claiming that he did you a favor?"
Ace's arrival had already put Crocodile in a terrible mood.
And it wasn't simply because Ace was powerful.
More importantly...
Ace belonged to the Whitebeard Pirates!
Crocodile had never forgotten his humiliating defeat at Whitebeard's hands.
Because of that old grudge, he naturally felt considerable hostility toward the young man who had become one of Whitebeard's division commanders.
"Oh, it's nothing particularly complicated."
Ace scratched his hair.
"Thanks to Luo Qi, I found out that one of my brothers is still alive."
His expression softened slightly.
Then, he turned toward Luo Qi.
"Luo Qi!"
"I'll hold Crocodile off for you this time."
"Consider it repayment for what you did."
Ace smiled.
"You and your companions can head toward the capital now."
"You've still got things to take care of over there, right?"
Naturally, Ace knew about Alabasta's ongoing civil unrest.
He also understood that Luo Qi and his companions were trying to stop a war from breaking out.
"Hmph!"
Crocodile snorted coldly.
"Even if they reach the capital, what difference will it make?"
He raised his hand.
Countless grains of sand began gathering around his palm.
"With their strength, there's no way they can stop the war!"
"Maybe we can't stop it ourselves."
Luo Qi's lips curved upward.
"But that doesn't mean someone else can't."
He stepped forward.
"Ace."
"Hm?"
"You said you wanted to repay me for what I did."
Luo Qi smiled.
"But judging by your attitude, you don't seem particularly interested in killing Crocodile."
Ace looked at him curiously.
"So..."
"How about helping me with something else instead?"
"Once you've done that, we'll consider the debt settled."
"Oh?"
Ace raised an eyebrow.
"What do you want me to do, Luo Qi?"
"Nothing too complicated."
Luo Qi shook his head.
"I don't need you to kill anyone."
"I just want you to use your flames to create a wall of fire between the royal army and the rebel army."
"Keep them from fighting each other."
Luo Qi smiled confidently.
"That's all."
After all, Luo Qi didn't currently possess an ability that would allow him to stop two enormous armies from clashing.
But Ace was different!
As the user of the Flame-Flame Fruit, Ace had more than enough destructive power to create a massive barrier of fire!
If he separated the two armies with his flames, he could temporarily prevent the conflict from escalating.
And that would give Luo Qi and his companions time to deal with Crocodile!
Ace had originally intended to repay Luo Qi simply by holding Crocodile back.
However, since that was all he planned to do, Luo Qi figured it would be far more useful to have him prevent the civil war instead.
Hearing Luo Qi's request, Ace turned toward him with an interested expression.
"So that's what you want."
He considered the proposal.
However, before he could answer—
"YOU DARE?!"
Crocodile's eyes widened with fury!
Without hesitation, he swung his arm forward!
WHOOSH!
A razor-sharp blade of sand shot straight toward Ace!
Unfortunately for Crocodile...
Ace casually raised his hand.
"Fire!"
A burst of scorching flames erupted from his palm!
BOOM!
The flames collided with the incoming sand blade and dispersed it!
"Good grief..."
Ace sighed helplessly.
"You're certainly an impatient fellow."
Then, he turned back toward Luo Qi.
"Well, stopping a war isn't usually my style."
"But..."
Ace grinned.
"I'll make an exception this once, just for you."
He glanced at Luo Qi one final time.
"Hopefully, you'll still be alive when this is over!"
As soon as he finished speaking—
WHOOSH!
Ace's entire body transformed into blazing flames!
A brilliant streak of fire shot through the sky, heading directly toward Alabasta's capital!
...
"DAMN IT!"
Crocodile gritted his teeth.
Seeing Ace depart, he immediately prepared to pursue him.
He couldn't allow someone with Ace's power to interfere with his carefully arranged plans!
However—
SHING!
A sharp blade suddenly appeared directly in front of him!
"...!"
Crocodile's pupils contracted.
He hurriedly stepped backward, narrowly avoiding the sword!
"Tch!"
He clicked his tongue in irritation.
Standing before him was Luo Qi, the Sandai Kitetsu firmly gripped in his hand.
Seeing Crocodile retreat, Luo Qi couldn't help feeling slightly disappointed.
What a shame.
If Crocodile didn't know I could use Armament Haki, that strike might have actually injured him.
Unfortunately, the Warlord had already received information about Luo Qi's abilities.
Naturally, he wasn't going to recklessly allow Luo Qi's blade to touch him.
Still, that didn't matter.
Luo Qi slowly raised his sword.
"If you want to go after Ace..."
His expression became serious.
"YOU'LL HAVE TO DEFEAT ME FIRST!"
Standing directly in Crocodile's path, Luo Qi showed absolutely no fear.
Since the battle had already begun, he had no intention of retreating!
...
"An opening!"
Suddenly, a cold voice sounded from nearby!
Mr. 1!
His arms transformed into razor-sharp blades as he charged toward Luo Qi!
He intended to take advantage of Luo Qi's confrontation with Crocodile and launch a surprise attack!
However—
BOOOOM!
Before Mr. 1 could reach his target, a cannonball slammed directly into his body!
The powerful explosion sent him flying backward!
"YOUR OPPONENT IS ME, BALDY!"
Baby 5 lowered the cannon she had transformed her arm into.
She glared fiercely at Mr. 1!
There was absolutely no way she would allow him to interfere with Luo Qi's battle!
Seeing Mr. 1 blasted backward, Mr. 4 and Miss Merry Christmas exchanged a glance.
Then, almost simultaneously, they sprang into action!
Their target was Luo Qi!
However, before they could reach him—
"Not so fast!"
Bepo rushed forward!
At the same time, Tashigi drew Shigure and intercepted the other attacker!
The two Baroque Works agents were immediately forced into separate battles.
For the moment, neither could break free to assist Crocodile.
Meanwhile, Reiju stepped forward and positioned herself beside Luo Qi.
Her Germa 66 Raid Suit was already activated.
She was fully prepared to fight Crocodile alongside her captain!
...
"Damn you, Luo Qi!"
Crocodile's face darkened.
Seeing his senior agents intercepted by Luo Qi's companions, he became increasingly furious.
However, he still had plenty of subordinates remaining!
He raised his hand and waved toward the surrounding Baroque Works members.
"GET THEM!"
The order was immediate.
More than a hundred armed agents charged forward!
Their targets were Law, Nami, Nojiko, and the other members of Luo Qi's group!
Weapons flashed beneath the desert sun.
The Baroque Works agents surged toward the Explorer's crew from every direction!
And with Crocodile facing Luo Qi and Reiju...
Mr. 1 confronting Baby 5...
And Mr. 4 and Miss Merry Christmas being held back by Bepo and Tashigi...
An all-out battle was about to erupt!
Chapter 90: A Flash of Steel Sweeps Across Crocodile's Neck!New2 days ago
[It's starting! It's finally starting! DAMN IT! I'm so nervous! Is there anyone nearby who wants to watch the livestream with me? I live in Unit 6, Building 6, Wangfu Residential Complex, in the capital!]
[Holy crap! I'm right downstairs! I'll come watch Brother Qi's battle with you!]
[Hurry up! I'll open the door!]
[HAHAHAHA! You people from Dragon Kingdom are hilarious! Are you seriously gathering together to comfort each other? Luo Qi is definitely going to lose! Your country is finished!]
[He caused the death of our Sakura Country's challenger! He deserves to pay the price!]
[YES! Congratulations from the Never-Setting Sun Country! Let's see how Dragon Kingdom gets out of this one!]
[FUCK! I can't stand you bastards anymore! It was your Never-Setting Sun Country that betrayed Brother Qi! Don't think your challenger will escape the consequences!]
[Oh? Do you seriously believe Luo Qi will survive long enough to hunt down our challenger? Or do you think Dragon Kingdom's second challenger will be capable of killing ours? HAHAHA! Give up already!]
...
As the battle between Luo Qi's crew and Crocodile's forces erupted in the One Piece world, another fierce conflict was unfolding within the livestream chatrooms.
Viewers from Dragon Kingdom were arguing furiously with people from countries hostile to them.
The arguments were particularly intense between Dragon Kingdom and the Never-Setting Sun Country.
Although the Never-Setting Sun Country's government had never officially admitted to ordering its challenger to leak Luo Qi's information, the viewers from Dragon Kingdom clearly didn't believe its denial.
In fact, even many citizens of the Never-Setting Sun Country didn't believe their own government's explanation!
Some were openly proud of their challenger's actions.
Naturally, this only made the people of Dragon Kingdom even angrier.
...
Meanwhile, in the One Piece world.
Alabasta's desert.
"ROOM!"
Seeing the Baroque Works agents charging toward them, Law immediately activated his Op-Op Fruit ability!
A transparent spherical field expanded outward.
Within the operating room, Law instantly moved himself, Smoker, Vivi, and the others to a distant location!
In the blink of an eye, they escaped the area where Luo Qi and Reiju were confronting Crocodile.
After all, Crocodile possessed the Sand-Sand Fruit.
His abilities could affect an enormous area, especially in a desert!
Law had no intention of allowing the aftermath of their battle to endanger Vivi and the others.
Furthermore, Luo Qi had already arranged their responsibilities before the fighting began.
Once the battle started, Luo Qi would personally confront Crocodile.
Meanwhile, Law, whose Devil Fruit granted him exceptional mobility, would be responsible for protecting Vivi and the others.
...
"Huh?!"
"Where did they go?!"
The Baroque Works agents who had been surrounding Law's group suddenly froze.
Their targets had disappeared right before their eyes!
However, they soon spotted them standing some distance away.
"There they are!"
"AFTER THEM!"
The agents immediately changed direction and charged toward Law's group once again.
...
"Smoker."
Law turned toward the injured Marine Captain.
"Can you still move?"
After receiving Law's emergency treatment, Smoker still looked terrible.
His face was pale, and his body was covered in injuries.
However, at the very least, his wounds were no longer life-threatening.
"Cough! Cough!"
Smoker braced his hands against the ground and slowly forced himself to his feet.
"Don't worry..."
"I'm not dying just yet."
"Good."
Law nodded.
"Then stay here and protect everyone."
He turned toward the approaching Baroque Works agents.
"I'll deal with those guys."
Smoker frowned.
Naturally, he wanted to participate in the fighting himself.
However, after considering his injuries, he knew he wasn't currently in any condition to fight at full strength.
In the end, he could only agree.
"Fine."
"Leave them to me."
Seeing Smoker accept the responsibility, Law immediately turned around.
He raised Kikoku.
Then, without hesitation, he rushed toward the approaching Baroque Works agents!
"ROOM!"
His operating room expanded once again!
Shing!
With a casual swing of his sword, several Baroque Works agents were instantly sliced into two pieces!
Their severed bodies fell to the ground.
However, because Law had used the Op-Op Fruit's abilities, the cuts weren't necessarily fatal.
Still, the attack immediately incapacitated them!
Law had no intention of wasting time.
After all, he still had another responsibility.
Once he dealt with these enemies, he was supposed to assist Luo Qi and Reiju in their battle against Crocodile!
Therefore, he attacked the Baroque Works agents with everything he had from the beginning.
Unfortunately, there were simply too many enemies.
Even with his extraordinary abilities, Law couldn't eliminate all of them immediately.
...
"Nami..."
Vivi watched the distant battles with an anxious expression.
"Do you think everyone will be alright?"
Her voice trembled slightly.
Seeing her concern, Nami immediately took her hand.
"Don't worry, Vivi!"
Nami gave her a bright, reassuring smile.
"Captain Luo Qi and the others will definitely win!"
"After all..."
"Captain Luo Qi is a hero!"
Nami's eyes filled with confidence.
"He saved my village!"
"And I'm certain he'll save your kingdom too!"
Hearing her words, Vivi looked toward her in surprise.
Standing nearby, Nojiko also nodded firmly.
"We believe in him."
"..."
Vivi pressed her lips together.
Then, she nodded.
"Thank you, everyone."
...
Meanwhile, Smoker stood in front of the three women.
He took a deep breath.
His expression was unusually complicated.
To think I'd actually end up being rescued by a bounty hunter and a pirate...
Smoker had never imagined such a situation.
And there was still something he couldn't understand.
Just what exactly is the relationship between Luo Qi and Ace?
However, after thinking about it briefly, he shook his head.
No.
That doesn't matter right now.
He reached into his clothing and retrieved his Den Den Mushi.
Then, he contacted his Marine unit.
"Listen carefully!"
"This is Smoker!"
"Bring everyone to my current location immediately!"
"Full speed!"
After issuing his orders, Smoker ended the call.
...
"PRINCESS VIVI!"
Suddenly, a sharp cry echoed from the sky!
"Hm?!"
Smoker, Nami, and the others immediately looked upward.
A large bird, roughly the size of a human and wearing clothing, was rapidly descending toward them!
Seeing the unfamiliar figure approaching, Smoker frowned.
He immediately prepared to attack.
However—
"Wait, Captain Smoker!"
Vivi hurriedly grabbed his arm.
"He's not an enemy!"
"He's the vice-captain of our kingdom's royal guards!"
Hearing this, Smoker relaxed slightly.
He lowered his guard and watched as the mysterious figure descended toward them.
It was Pell!
A member of Alabasta's royal guard who possessed the power of the Bird-Bird Fruit, Model: Falcon!
...
"Princess Vivi!"
Pell landed in front of her.
Then, he immediately looked toward the fierce battle unfolding in the distance.
"Are those people fighting Crocodile your companions?!"
The situation was urgent.
He had no time for lengthy explanations.
"Yes, Pell!"
Vivi nodded firmly.
"They're my companions!"
"They came here to help me save Alabasta!"
"I understand."
Pell took a deep breath.
"Then I'll go help them!"
He immediately prepared to transform and join the battle.
However—
"Wait, Vice-Captain Pell!"
Nojiko suddenly called out to him.
Pell stopped.
He turned toward her in confusion.
"Is something wrong?"
Nojiko stepped forward.
"I believe Captain Luo Qi and the others will defeat Crocodile."
Her voice was filled with confidence.
"So rather than joining the fight here..."
"Could you take Vivi to the capital first?"
"..."
Vivi froze.
"Nojiko, you..."
Nojiko gently placed both hands on Vivi's shoulders.
"Vivi."
"Our goal is to defeat Baroque Works and stop the civil unrest in Alabasta."
"Captain Luo Qi and the others will take care of Crocodile."
"We believe in him."
She smiled reassuringly.
"But the rebellion is a different matter."
"That's something only you can help resolve."
Nojiko continued.
"With Ace's abilities and your efforts to persuade the two armies..."
"I believe the fighting can still be stopped!"
Hearing those words, Vivi hesitated.
She looked toward the battlefield.
Luo Qi and the others were risking their lives against Crocodile and his subordinates.
And now, she was supposed to take away someone who had just arrived and could potentially help them fight?
Vivi couldn't help feeling conflicted.
However, before she could speak—
"Vivi."
Nami stepped forward.
"Do as Nojiko says."
"Captain Luo Qi will definitely win!"
"Besides, if you reach the capital first, you can also start searching for that bomb!"
Hearing this, Vivi suddenly remembered something important.
The bomb!
According to the intelligence Luo Qi had obtained from Nico Robin, Crocodile had arranged for an enormous bomb to be planted in the capital's central square!
A bomb powerful enough to kill one hundred thousand people!
They absolutely couldn't allow it to explode!
"Everyone..."
Vivi looked at Nami and Nojiko.
Her heart was filled with gratitude.
After hesitating for a moment, she finally nodded firmly.
"Alright!"
"I understand!"
She clenched her fists.
"I'll definitely repay everyone for everything you've done!"
Then, she turned toward Pell.
"Pell!"
"Take me to the capital!"
"We have to get to the central square!"
"Understood, Princess!"
Without hesitation, Pell prepared to take flight.
He carefully lifted Vivi.
Then—
Whoosh!
His enormous wings spread outward!
With a powerful flap, he rose into the sky, carrying Vivi toward Alabasta's capital!
...
Meanwhile, on another part of the battlefield.
"THUNDER BREATHING — FIRST FORM!"
"THUNDERCLAP AND FLASH: GODSPEED!"
BOOOOOOM!
A deafening thunderclap suddenly exploded across the desert!
Luo Qi's entire body surged forward with terrifying speed!
Lightning flashed around him as he launched himself toward Crocodile!
His cursed sword, the Sandai Kitetsu, was already coated in Armament Haki!
At that moment, Crocodile was occupied with Reiju, who was keeping him engaged in battle.
Luo Qi seized the opportunity!
His speed increased explosively!
The distance between them disappeared in an instant!
SHING!
A brilliant flash of steel swept through the air!
Before Crocodile could react—
The cursed blade in Luo Qi's hand had already swept across Crocodile's neck!