Chapter 91: You've Misunderstood — I Was Cutting Down Your Subordinates!New2 days ago
[HE DID IT! BROTHER QI DID IT!]
[He cut that bastard's head off! HAHAHA! Brother Qi won!]
[WAIT! Something's wrong!]
[That guy isn't bleeding!]
...
The moment Luo Qi's cursed sword swept across Crocodile's neck, the viewers from Dragon Kingdom erupted into cheers.
However, their excitement didn't last long.
They quickly noticed something strange.
From the overhead perspective of the livestream, they could clearly see that Crocodile's neck hadn't been cut open at all!
There wasn't even a trace of blood!
Instead, the area where Luo Qi's blade had passed was made entirely of sand!
...
Meanwhile, in the One Piece world.
Luo Qi frowned and immediately turned around.
Something's wrong.
He could tell from the sensation transmitted through his sword that he hadn't actually cut Crocodile's body.
Before the blade reached his neck, Crocodile had already transformed that part of his body into sand and dispersed it!
And this wasn't the first time!
During their earlier exchanges, Luo Qi's sword had brushed past Crocodile several times.
Yet every time, the Warlord had avoided injury using the same method.
Does this guy have Observation Haki?
Luo Qi couldn't help wondering.
Although Logia-type Devil Fruit users could transform their bodies into natural elements, that didn't mean they were completely invulnerable to Armament Haki.
A blade coated in Armament Haki could still injure them.
However, if a Logia user transformed the targeted part of their body before the attack connected, they could avoid the damage entirely.
To accomplish that consistently, exceptional Observation Haki would normally be indispensable.
After all, Observation Haki allowed its user to perceive incoming attacks in advance.
If someone like Aokiji had avoided his attacks this way, Luo Qi wouldn't have found it particularly surprising.
But Crocodile...
Isn't Crocodile supposed to be incapable of using Observation Haki?
Don't tell me the original story was misleading!
Could this guy actually possess Observation Haki after all?
The possibility made Luo Qi's expression even more serious.
...
"Hehehe!"
"Give up, Luo Qi!"
Crocodile slowly turned around, looking toward Luo Qi and Reiju, who were now standing together.
"You're no match for me."
He exhaled a cloud of cigar smoke.
"I'll admit that your strength is rather impressive."
"And when you cooperate with that woman, you're capable of posing a certain threat."
"If I were careless, perhaps you really could defeat me."
Crocodile's lips twisted into a cold smile.
"Unfortunately for you..."
"I have absolutely no intention of underestimating either of you."
Then, his gaze shifted toward Reiju.
"Although there's something I'm curious about."
"Why would a woman from Germa 66 willingly follow an outsider like Luo Qi?"
Crocodile examined her Raid Suit.
Initially, when he'd received information claiming that Vinsmoke Reiju was one of Luo Qi's companions, he'd been somewhat skeptical.
However, after personally fighting her, he could no longer deny the truth.
That woman was unquestionably a member of Germa 66!
After all, no other organization possessed combat equipment quite like her Raid Suit.
"What exactly did Luo Qi offer you?"
Crocodile looked at Reiju with interest.
"If you're willing to come over to my side, perhaps I'll consider sparing your life."
Clearly, Crocodile had taken an interest in her abilities.
Although Baroque Works was a large organization, its overall combat strength wasn't particularly impressive.
Mr. 1 was considered quite formidable within the first half of the Grand Line.
However, Crocodile understood perfectly well that fighters of Mr. 1's caliber were hardly uncommon in the New World.
In that dangerous sea, someone like him would be little more than an ordinary combatant.
Reiju, on the other hand, was different.
With her Raid Suit, she possessed enough strength to establish herself in the New World!
Furthermore, Crocodile was extremely interested in Germa 66's advanced combat technology.
That was why he'd decided to offer her a place at his side.
Unfortunately...
He had chosen the wrong person to recruit.
"Sorry."
Reiju's lips curved into an amused smile.
"I have no intention of changing captains whenever someone makes me a better offer."
As she spoke, she flicked a stream of venom toward Crocodile!
"Hmph!"
"What a pity."
Crocodile's expression darkened.
"In that case..."
"I'll just have to kill you alongside Luo Qi!"
He suddenly pressed both hands against the ground!
The next instant—
RUMBLE!
The desert beneath Luo Qi and Reiju began shifting violently!
In the blink of an eye, the solid ground transformed into quicksand!
The two immediately began sinking!
However...
Both Luo Qi and Reiju possessed abilities that allowed them to remain airborne.
Before the quicksand could swallow them, they quickly escaped into the air!
Naturally, Crocodile's attack failed to accomplish anything.
...
Hm?
While hovering above the battlefield, Luo Qi suddenly noticed something.
Wait a minute...
So that's how he's doing it!
His eyes narrowed.
From his elevated position, he could finally see a detail he'd overlooked during their earlier exchanges.
Countless tiny grains of sand were floating around Crocodile!
They were so small and inconspicuous that Luo Qi hadn't noticed them while fighting at close range.
However, from above, their arrangement became much clearer.
The grains formed a loose spherical field surrounding Crocodile!
The field extended more than ten meters across!
I see.
Luo Qi immediately understood.
He's using those floating grains of sand to sense my attacks!
So he isn't necessarily relying on Observation Haki.
Instead, he's using his own sand as a detection system!
Whenever Luo Qi's sword passed through the surrounding grains, Crocodile could sense the disturbance.
That gave him enough warning to predict the attack's trajectory.
And against Luo Qi's current fighting style...
It was an extremely effective countermeasure!
Thunderclap and Flash is incredibly fast.
But there's one obvious weakness.
Its attacks generally follow a straight path!
If the enemy could detect that path in advance, avoiding the attack became much easier.
And for Crocodile, even if he couldn't physically dodge the strike, he could simply transform the targeted portion of his body into sand beforehand!
No wonder he keeps avoiding my attacks.
Luo Qi narrowed his eyes and stared down at Crocodile.
Should I purchase another sword technique?
No...
If the new technique is slower, he'll still have time to evade it.
What about using blood to exploit his weakness?
That probably won't work either.
He already knows about my abilities. There's no way he wouldn't be prepared for something like that.
After considering his options, Luo Qi gradually reached a decision.
Looks like I'll have to use that move.
...
While continuing to launch flying sword slashes toward Crocodile, Luo Qi finalized his plan.
Then, he and Reiju descended back to the ground.
The moment her feet touched the sand, Reiju immediately charged forward again!
Using the abilities of her Raid Suit, she launched another venomous assault against Crocodile!
Meanwhile, Luo Qi returned the Sandai Kitetsu to its sheath.
He lowered his body.
One hand rested against the sword's hilt.
His posture was unmistakable.
A quick-draw stance!
...
"Hm?"
Crocodile's gaze immediately sharpened.
He'd been watching Luo Qi carefully throughout the battle.
And after seeing that familiar stance, he instantly understood what was coming.
That lightning-fast sword technique again?
Crocodile sneered inwardly.
An attack that fast must consume an enormous amount of stamina.
I'd like to see how much longer you can keep using it, Luo Qi!
He prepared himself to dodge.
...
"Haa..."
Luo Qi slowly inhaled.
Tiny crackling sounds began emerging from his body.
Crackle! Crackle!
Faint streaks of lightning danced around him!
His muscles tightened.
His hand gripped the sword's hilt.
Then—
"THUNDER BREATHING — FIRST FORM!"
"THUNDERCLAP AND FLASH: EIGHTFOLD!"
BOOOOOOM!
A deafening thunderclap erupted!
The sand beneath Luo Qi's feet exploded outward!
In an instant, his body transformed into a brilliant streak of golden lightning!
WHOOSH!
He charged directly toward Crocodile!
SHING!
A flash of steel!
Then another!
SHING! SHING! SHING!
Eight consecutive slashes!
Luo Qi's figure moved with astonishing speed, repeatedly flashing past Crocodile!
Every strike was swift and precise!
However...
Crocodile remained completely calm.
The floating sand surrounding his body detected each incoming attack.
Using the information transmitted through those grains, he transformed the targeted parts of his body into sand just before Luo Qi's blade could connect.
One slash!
Two!
Three!
Even after all eight slashes...
Crocodile remained unharmed!
...
"Hehehe..."
"Hahahahaha!"
Crocodile suddenly burst into laughter!
"Is that all you've got?!"
"After everything you've done, this is the extent of your strength?!"
He stared at Luo Qi contemptuously.
"Luo Qi!"
"YOU CAN'T EVEN HURT ME!"
"JUST GIVE UP!"
As he shouted, Crocodile swung his arm forward!
WHOOSH!
A sharp blade of sand shot toward Luo Qi!
However—
BANG!
Reiju suddenly appeared beside Luo Qi!
With a powerful kick, she shattered the incoming sand blade!
The attack dispersed harmlessly into the surrounding desert.
...
"Who said I was trying to attack you?"
Luo Qi suddenly spoke.
"Hm?"
Crocodile frowned.
Luo Qi slowly turned around.
A broad smile appeared on his face.
"You've misunderstood something, Crocodile."
"My target this time..."
"Wasn't you."
"...!"
Crocodile's expression changed.
He immediately looked around the battlefield.
And what he saw made his eyes widen!
"MR. 1?!"
"MR. 4?!"
"MISS MERRY CHRISTMAS?!"
The three senior agents of Baroque Works were lying on the ground!
Their bodies had been severed into two pieces!
Even Mr. 4's Devil Fruit-powered weapon had been cut apart!
"..."
Crocodile's face instantly darkened.
Only now did he understand what Luo Qi had done!
Those eight lightning-fast sword slashes hadn't been intended to injure Crocodile at all!
Instead, Luo Qi had deliberately made it seem as though Crocodile was his target!
By keeping the Warlord's attention focused entirely on himself, he had created an opportunity to strike the other senior agents!
And while Crocodile was busy preparing to avoid Luo Qi's attacks...
Mr. 1, Mr. 4, and Miss Merry Christmas had all been cut down!
That bastard!
Crocodile clenched his teeth.
The anger rising inside him was almost unbearable!
Without their opponents to keep them occupied, Baby 5, Bepo, and Tashigi were now approaching Luo Qi's position.
And that meant Crocodile would have even more enemies to deal with!
...
"Captain Luo Qi!"
Suddenly, another familiar voice sounded from nearby.
"Hope I'm not too late!"
Crocodile turned his head.
It was Law!
He was approaching from the other side of the battlefield.
And behind him...
More than a hundred Baroque Works agents lay scattered across the sand!
Their bodies had been sliced into multiple sections by the Op-Op Fruit's abilities!
With his enemies incapacitated, Law had finally arrived to assist his captain.
...
At the same time, several familiar notifications sounded inside Luo Qi's mind.
[You have successfully killed two Bronze-tier enemies!]
[Reward: Physique +100 points!]
[You have successfully killed one Black Iron-tier enemy!]
[Reward: Physique +100 points!]
[Congratulations! You have obtained the following Devil Fruits!]
[Dog-Dog Fruit, Model: Dachshund!]
[Mole-Mole Fruit!]
[Dice-Dice Fruit!]
A moment later, Luo Qi's updated status appeared before him.
CHALLENGER STATUS
Name: Luo Qi
Physique: 9,760
Points: 900
Chapter 92: The First Warlord Falls — Hidden Achievement Unlocked!New2 days ago
[HAHAHAHA! That's our Brother Qi! If he can't cut down Crocodile, he'll just cut down his subordinates first!]
[Look at Crocodile's face! He's so furious that it's practically turning black!]
[I hope he gets so angry that he drops dead! That way, Brother Qi won't even have to fight him anymore!]
[Regardless, Brother Qi's companions have finally gathered around him. Baby 5 and Law are both pretty strong, so they should be able to help him quite a bit!]
[Don't celebrate too early! Crocodile might still have some hidden trump cards!]
[Hey, you people from the Never-Setting Sun Country! You'd better start worrying about your own challenger! Speaking of which, your country can't send him messages right now, can it? HAHAHA! That's wonderful! He might not even realize what's coming for him!]
...
Meanwhile, in the One Piece world.
9,760 Physique Points.
I'm only 240 points away from reaching 10,000.
And I still have 900 Points available.
Luo Qi quickly examined his current attributes.
If I can raise my Physique to 10,000...
I should finally be able to use that technique, right?
The moment this thought appeared, Luo Qi made his decision.
Without hesitation, he spent some of his accumulated Points to strengthen his body!
Physique: 10,000!
Crackle! Crackle!
The instant his Physique reached 10,000, a series of strange sounds erupted from within his body!
Luo Qi could clearly feel something changing.
His muscles tightened and expanded with newfound strength.
Even his bones seemed to be undergoing a mysterious transformation!
An incredible surge of power spread throughout his entire body.
So reaching 10,000 Physique Points actually produces a qualitative change!
Luo Qi's eyes brightened.
In that case...
I can definitely use that technique now!
He recalled the move he'd experimented with several times in the past.
Despite repeated attempts, he'd always fallen just short of successfully executing it.
His body simply hadn't been strong enough.
But now...
Things were different!
A confident smile appeared on Luo Qi's face.
He glanced toward his companions and gave them a subtle signal.
...
Naturally, Luo Qi and his crew had already discussed their strategy before the battle.
His companions recognized the signal at once!
Without hesitation, they charged toward Crocodile!
Reiju, who possessed the greatest combat strength among them, naturally took the lead.
Her Raid Suit propelled her forward at tremendous speed!
She immediately began launching venomous attacks!
Crocodile's expression darkened.
After all, Reiju's poison contained moisture!
If he carelessly allowed her venom to touch him, he could lose the protection of his Logia intangibility.
Worse still, he might end up poisoned!
Naturally, Crocodile had no intention of allowing that to happen.
However...
Reiju wasn't fighting alone!
Law, Baby 5, and the others also joined the assault!
They immediately took out the water supplies they'd prepared beforehand and began using them against Crocodile!
Water!
Against the Sand-Sand Fruit, even ordinary water could become a dangerous weapon!
"DAMN YOU!"
Crocodile roared furiously.
He attempted to break through their encirclement.
Unfortunately, Law's Op-Op Fruit abilities made escaping extremely difficult!
"ROOM!"
A transparent spherical field expanded across the battlefield!
Within that area, Law repeatedly interfered with Crocodile's movements, preventing him from freely escaping the others' attacks.
Meanwhile, Reiju continued launching her poisonous assaults.
Baby 5 attacked from another direction.
Bepo and Tashigi also contributed whatever support they could!
For the moment, Crocodile was trapped!
...
However, Luo Qi understood something important.
They won't be able to hold him for long.
I have to finish preparing before he breaks free!
After familiarizing himself with the changes to his strengthened body, Luo Qi slowly inhaled.
Then, he placed his right hand on the hilt of the Sandai Kitetsu.
His eyes gradually closed.
Unlike his previous uses of Thunderclap and Flash, he didn't immediately lower himself into a quick-draw stance.
Instead...
He stood completely still.
His feet remained firmly planted in the desert sand.
His entire body gradually tensed!
Crackle!
Crackle! Crackle!
Faint sounds of thunder began emerging from within him.
Golden lightning appeared around his body!
At first, the electrical arcs were barely visible.
But as time passed, they grew increasingly intense!
Soon, brilliant streaks of golden lightning were dancing across his entire figure!
...
[Wait a minute! What's Brother Qi doing?!]
[Is he preparing some kind of ultimate technique?!]
[I think so! I remember seeing him enter a similar state back in Loguetown!]
[That's right! But he couldn't actually execute the technique back then!]
[So does that mean he can finally use it now?!]
[Probably! He just killed three enemies and gained even more Physique Points! Maybe his body has finally become strong enough!]
[COME ON, BROTHER QI!]
[KILL THAT ARROGANT WARLORD!]
...
One minute passed.
Then two.
Three minutes...
Five minutes...
And eventually...
Ten whole minutes passed!
Throughout that time, Luo Qi remained motionless.
The golden lightning surrounding him continued growing stronger!
The rumbling thunder became increasingly deafening!
However, the situation on the battlefield was gradually deteriorating.
Reiju and the others were beginning to struggle!
Despite their combined efforts, Crocodile was becoming increasingly difficult to restrain.
And when he noticed Luo Qi standing motionless in the distance, an ominous feeling began growing inside him.
That bastard...
What's he preparing?!
Crocodile narrowed his eyes.
The young man had been standing perfectly still for ten minutes!
And the thunder surrounding him was getting louder and louder!
Crocodile didn't need anyone to explain what that meant.
He's preparing an extremely powerful attack!
Furthermore, Luo Qi already possessed terrifying speed.
If he was preparing an even stronger version of that lightning-fast sword technique...
I can't allow him to complete it!
Realizing this, Crocodile became even more desperate to break free.
His attacks against Reiju and the others grew increasingly violent!
"GET OUT OF MY WAY!"
BOOOOOOM!
Crocodile suddenly slammed his palm against the ground!
The surrounding sand erupted outward like countless cannonballs!
The violent explosion sent Baby 5 and the others flying backward!
Then—
WHOOSH!
Crocodile swung his arm toward Reiju!
A massive blade of sand tore through the air!
BANG!
Reiju was struck and sent flying!
With his opponents momentarily scattered, Crocodile finally found an opening!
He immediately charged toward Luo Qi!
Now!
I'll kill you before you can finish preparing that attack!
However...
Just as Crocodile closed the distance—
Luo Qi suddenly opened his eyes!
Golden lightning erupted around his body!
His right foot struck the ground!
Once!
Twice!
Ten times!
Dozens of times!
His feet moved so quickly that they were almost impossible to distinguish!
Then—
"THUNDER BREATHING!"
"THUNDERCLAP AND FLASH!"
"SUPER GODSPEED!"
BOOOOOOOOOOM!
A deafening thunderclap shook the entire desert!
The ground beneath Luo Qi exploded!
Golden lightning flashed across the battlefield!
And in the next instant...
Luo Qi disappeared!
Completely!
Even Crocodile couldn't follow his movements!
"W-What?!"
Crocodile's pupils contracted.
He vanished?!
An overwhelming sense of danger suddenly surged through his mind!
NOT GOOD!
He immediately attempted to turn around!
However...
Something was wrong.
Something was terribly wrong!
Crocodile's upper body twisted backward.
But his lower body...
Didn't move with it!
"...?"
For a brief moment, he couldn't understand what was happening.
Then, he saw it.
His lower body was still rushing forward!
Without his upper body attached!
A moment later—
THUD!
The severed lower half of Crocodile's body collapsed onto the desert sand!
Blood erupted from the cleanly severed wound at his waist!
An enormous quantity of blood!
"..."
Crocodile stared blankly.
His eyes were filled with disbelief.
"I..."
"I've been cut?"
His voice was barely audible.
He looked down at the place where his lower body should have been.
But there was nothing!
His body had been completely severed in two!
Only now did the terrible pain finally reach his mind!
"AAAAARGH!"
The unbearable agony almost overwhelmed his consciousness!
However, perhaps because of that very pain, Crocodile managed to regain a small measure of clarity.
His bloodshot eyes immediately locked onto a figure standing some distance ahead.
Luo Qi!
The young swordsman remained perfectly still.
His right hand rested against the hilt of the Sandai Kitetsu.
The cursed blade had already returned to its sheath!
Luo Qi hadn't even turned around.
He stood there, maintaining the final posture of his sword technique.
And seeing that sight...
Crocodile's expression twisted with murderous fury!
YOU BASTARD!
Despite his catastrophic injuries, he refused to accept defeat!
Using the last remnants of his strength, Crocodile desperately transformed his damaged body into swirling sand!
WHOOSH!
He launched himself toward Luo Qi!
His golden hook gleamed beneath the sunlight!
...
"CAREFUL!"
Baby 5 and the others shouted in alarm!
Moments earlier, they'd seen Crocodile's body severed into two pieces.
Naturally, everyone had assumed the battle was over!
They'd finally begun relaxing.
But now...
Crocodile was launching one final desperate attack!
Unfortunately, by the time they realized what was happening, they could only shout a warning.
...
Damn it!
Luo Qi sensed the incoming danger.
He wanted to dodge!
However...
His body wouldn't respond properly!
The enormous strain caused by Super Godspeed had completely overwhelmed his muscles.
At that moment, he couldn't freely control his movements!
Even standing upright required considerable effort.
Move!
COME ON!
Crocodile's poisoned golden hook was already approaching his chest!
Luo Qi desperately forced his body to shift sideways.
Just a little!
It was all he could manage!
STAB!
The poisoned hook pierced straight through Luo Qi's body!
Blood splashed!
Although he'd managed to avoid having his heart pierced directly, the wound was still severe!
Crocodile's eyes flashed with hatred.
He attempted to drive the hook farther and worsen the injury!
However...
Before he could follow through—
A sudden wave of weakness overwhelmed him!
His remaining strength disappeared!
His consciousness began fading!
"..."
Crocodile's eyes slowly closed.
And finally...
His life came to an end.
...
At that exact moment, a series of familiar notifications sounded inside Luo Qi's mind!
[You have killed one Silver-tier enemy!]
[Reward: Physique +500 points!]
[Congratulations! You have obtained the Logia-type Devil Fruit, Sand-Sand Fruit!]
[Congratulations! You have killed one of the Seven Warlords of the Sea!]
[Hidden Objective Unlocked: Eliminate the Seven Warlords of the Sea!]
[Progress: 1/7]
[You are the first challenger to kill one of the Seven Warlords of the Sea!]
[Special Reward: Silver Treasure Chest!]
...
However, Luo Qi could barely make out the mysterious voice speaking inside his mind.
His vision was growing blurry.
His entire body felt unbearably heavy.
Even his eyelids seemed to weigh a thousand pounds!
So tired...
Why am I so sleepy...?
He felt as though he might lose consciousness at any moment.
Through the haze, he vaguely heard someone shouting nearby.
"DON'T MOVE THE CAPTAIN'S BODY!"
It was Law!
"I'm the doctor!"
"I CAN HANDLE THIS!"
His voice was urgent.
But Luo Qi could barely hear him anymore.
The darkness was closing in.
And at that moment, all Luo Qi wanted to do...
Was sleep.
Chapter 93: Reiju: Detoxification? I Can Do That!New2 days ago
[HOLY SHIT! HOLY SHIT! HOLY SHIT!]
[HOW THE HELL WAS CROCODILE STILL ABLE TO MOVE AFTER BEING CUT IN HALF?!]
[THAT DOESN'T MAKE ANY SCIENTIFIC SENSE!]
[Brother Qi isn't going to die, is he?!]
[No way! Everyone knows how skilled Law is as a doctor! He'll definitely be able to treat Brother Qi's injuries!]
[We can still see the livestream, which means Brother Qi hasn't lost consciousness yet! He'll definitely pull through!]
...
At that moment, even the announcement pinned at the top of the livestream, informing everyone that Luo Qi had obtained a Silver Treasure Chest, failed to excite the viewers from Dragon Kingdom.
Their attention was completely focused on Luo Qi's condition!
After all, although Crocodile had been killed, his final attack had pierced Luo Qi's body!
And that golden hook was coated in deadly poison!
Naturally, everyone was terrified that something terrible might happen to their challenger.
However, not everyone watching the livestream was worried.
[HAHAHAHA! How could he possibly survive?! That was Crocodile's final attack!]
[Exactly! That hook definitely pierced Luo Qi's heart! The only reason he hasn't died yet is because his Physique is exceptionally strong!]
[SHUT THE HELL UP, YOU BASTARDS FROM THE NEVER-SETTING SUN COUNTRY!]
[If Brother Qi dies, I'll immediately apply to my superiors for a mission to your country!]
[COME ON, THEN! You think we're afraid of you?! Who the hell do you think you are?!]
...
Meanwhile, back in the real world.
Dragon Kingdom.
Zhou Qiangping, the soldier who had obtained the Drunk-Drunk Fruit, stared at the furious messages scrolling across the livestream.
His fists tightened.
His expression grew increasingly dark.
"Little Zhou."
Researcher Guan Feng reached out and patted his shoulder.
"Don't get too worked up."
"Luo Qi won't be defeated that easily."
Guan Feng tried to comfort him.
However, Zhou Qiangping noticed something.
The researcher's hand was trembling!
Clearly, despite his reassuring words, Guan Feng was just as nervous as he was.
The two men took deep breaths.
Then, they turned their attention back toward the screen.
"He'll definitely be alright!"
Almost simultaneously, the same words escaped their mouths.
...
Meanwhile, in the One Piece world.
"ROOM!"
Law activated his Op-Op Fruit ability.
Using his powers, he opened an incision in Luo Qi's body without causing additional bleeding.
However, after taking just one look at the condition of Luo Qi's internal organs, Law's expression became extremely serious.
His brows knitted tightly together.
"Law!"
Baby 5 hurriedly approached him.
Her face was filled with anxiety.
"H-How is Luo Qi?!"
"He's going to be alright, isn't he?!"
Law took a deep breath.
"The captain's heart has been grazed."
"Fortunately, the wound isn't very large."
"With my abilities and Captain Luo Qi's extraordinary Physique, I should be able to repair the damage."
Baby 5 felt a flicker of relief at his words.
However—
"But..."
Law's expression darkened.
He reached toward Luo Qi's injury and touched a small amount of the purple liquid remaining around the wound.
His eyes narrowed.
"That bastard Crocodile..."
"He used an extremely powerful poison!"
"...!"
Baby 5 froze.
Law continued grimly.
"Because the hook struck so close to the captain's heart, the poison has already spread throughout his entire body!"
"If I have to remove the poison while simultaneously repairing the injury to his heart..."
Law's voice trailed off.
His fists slowly clenched.
Even with the Op-Op Fruit, performing both treatments at once would be extremely difficult!
"What?!"
Baby 5's expression changed drastically.
"Law!"
"What do you mean?!"
"Finish what you're saying!"
Law lowered his head.
"..."
Seeing his expression, Baby 5's heart sank.
"H-How could this happen...?"
"Captain Luo Qi..."
She raised both hands to her mouth.
Her eyes widened in disbelief.
At that moment, Nami and Nojiko also arrived.
They had heard Law's explanation.
And the instant they saw Luo Qi's condition, tears began streaming down their faces.
"Luo Qi..."
"Captain..."
Even Tashigi and Smoker, who were standing nearby, wore extremely grim expressions.
...
[NO WAY!]
[DON'T TELL ME THERE'S REALLY NOTHING THEY CAN DO?!]
[IS THERE A DOCTOR WATCHING?! SOMEONE EXPLAIN WHAT'S HAPPENING!]
[HAHAHAHA! IT'S OVER! YOUR CHALLENGER IS FINISHED!]
...
Just as Baby 5 and the others were beginning to despair, a familiar voice suddenly rang out.
"There's still a way!"
Everyone immediately turned toward the speaker.
It was Reiju!
She stepped forward and approached Luo Qi.
Then, she knelt beside him.
Gently lifting his head with both hands, Reiju carefully placed it on her lap.
Under normal circumstances, Luo Qi would undoubtedly have enjoyed receiving a lap pillow from a beautiful woman like Reiju.
Unfortunately, the pain spreading throughout his body made it impossible for him to appreciate the experience.
However...
Seeing Reiju's actions, Luo Qi actually began to relax.
After all, he'd heard everything Law had just said.
His current condition was dangerous primarily because of two problems.
The injury to his heart.
And the poison spreading throughout his body!
As long as someone could deal with the poison, Law would be free to concentrate entirely on repairing his heart.
And Luo Qi knew something that the others didn't.
Vinsmoke Reiju possessed the ability to absorb poison!
In other words...
With Reiju and Law working together, my life should be safe!
Realizing this, Luo Qi finally felt reassured.
...
"Law."
Reiju looked toward the young doctor.
"I'll handle the poison inside Luo Qi's body."
"Hm?"
Law immediately turned toward her.
Reiju continued calmly.
"I can absorb the poison through a kiss."
"And because my body is immune to poison, there's no need to worry about it harming me."
She smiled faintly.
"You just need to concentrate on treating his injuries."
"..."
Law's eyes brightened.
"I see!"
Naturally, he already knew that Reiju possessed extraordinary resistance to poison.
However, he hadn't realized she could directly extract toxins from another person's body!
If that was the case...
There was still hope!
"Alright!"
Law nodded.
"But be careful."
"Try not to move the captain's body too much."
"Otherwise, the wound near his heart could start bleeding heavily!"
After all, the poison had already spread throughout Luo Qi's bloodstream.
If Reiju's actions caused his blood circulation to accelerate too rapidly, the injury near his heart might worsen.
Even with Law's extraordinary medical abilities, he couldn't guarantee a successful operation under those circumstances!
"Understood."
Reiju nodded gently.
Then, without further hesitation, she lowered her head.
Opening her mouth, she pressed her lips against Luo Qi's body and bit down gently, beginning to draw out the poison!
"..."
Luo Qi managed to open his eyes slightly.
He glanced toward Reiju.
Then, he slowly closed them again.
He knew perfectly well what she was doing.
After all, he'd watched the anime and was familiar with Reiju's abilities.
There was no reason to resist her treatment.
Meanwhile, Baby 5 and the others had already heard Reiju explain how she intended to remove the poison.
Therefore, they weren't particularly shocked by her actions.
Still...
Baby 5 clasped her hands tightly.
Please...
You have to succeed!
She silently prayed.
...
"Good!"
Law's eyes suddenly lit up.
"The poison is starting to leave his body!"
He immediately looked toward Reiju.
"Reiju!"
"Maintain that rate of extraction!"
"I'm going to operate on Captain Luo Qi now!"
Reiju continued her treatment without answering.
Meanwhile, Law immediately returned his attention to the wound near Luo Qi's heart.
With the poison being removed, he could finally concentrate on repairing the damage!
...
[WHOOO! THAT SCARED THE HELL OUT OF ME!]
[So Reiju actually has an ability like that?!]
[AMAZING! Brother Qi is saved!]
[That's right! As long as Reiju removes the poison, Law should be able to handle the rest!]
[By the way, didn't Brother Qi just receive a Silver Treasure Chest? Does that mean Dragon Kingdom might obtain even more valuable resources?!]
[THIS HAS TO BE A JOKE! How could Vinsmoke Reiju possibly absorb poison?! And in that manner, no less?! I DON'T BELIEVE IT! Luo Qi is definitely going to die!]
[Hey, you bastard upstairs! I've remembered your username! When I visit the Never-Setting Sun Country, I'll make sure to find you and personally send my regards to your entire family!]
[Come on, Reiju specializes in poison! Is it really that strange for her to possess the ability to absorb toxins?]
[Besides, that method of treatment is... ahem... rather wonderful, isn't it?]
[HAHAHAHA! Inviting Reiju to join the crew was definitely one of the best decisions Brother Qi ever made!]
[Oh no! I'm suddenly starting to think Brother Qi and Reiju would make a pretty good couple!]
[Your imagination is too limited! I originally supported Brother Qi and Baby 5 getting together, but now I'm starting to think there's room for both Baby 5 and Reiju!]
...
After learning that Luo Qi could still be saved, the people of Dragon Kingdom finally began to relax.
From ordinary viewers to the country's senior leaders, everyone felt an enormous weight lift from their shoulders.
However, nobody left the livestream.
They continued watching the screen intently.
Until Law finished his operation, they couldn't completely put their worries to rest.
...
Fortunately, Law worked extremely quickly.
With the Op-Op Fruit, repairing the relatively small injury near Luo Qi's heart wasn't particularly time-consuming.
The only thing complicating the procedure was the poison.
Because of that, Law had to proceed with considerable caution.
However, once Reiju began extracting the toxins, the operation became much easier.
Time slowly passed.
Five minutes...
Eight minutes...
Finally, approximately ten minutes later—
"Phew!"
Law let out a long breath.
He wiped the sweat from his forehead.
Then, he carefully closed the incision in Luo Qi's body.
"Alright."
"I'm finished here."
The operation had been successful!
Luo Qi's heart injury had been treated!
However...
When Law turned toward Reiju, he noticed something strange.
She was still leaning over Luo Qi, continuing her treatment.
"..."
Law blinked.
Then, he looked at her with a rather peculiar expression.
"Reiju."
"Hm?"
"Actually..."
Law paused briefly.
"All the poison in Captain Luo Qi's body was removed five minutes ago."
"..."
He stared at her.
Then, he finally asked the question on his mind.
"So... how much longer are you planning to keep kissing him?"
Chapter 94: Generous Rewards and Reiju's Playful Teasing!New2 days ago
[THAT'S GREAT! Brother Qi is finally safe!]
[As expected of Law! His medical skills are incredible! Even an injury to the heart isn't beyond his ability to treat!]
[We also have to thank Reiju! With her around, Brother Qi won't have to worry about being poisoned anymore!]
[Are you kidding? If I were Brother Qi, I'd willingly eat poison every single day just so Reiju could help me extract it! Hehehe!]
[Keep dreaming! Do you seriously think someone like you could win Miss Reiju's affection? Only a man like Brother Qi could handle a woman like her!]
[Ultimately, Brother Qi's extraordinary Physique played a huge part in his survival. Without such a strong body, Crocodile's final attack might have killed him instantly!]
[I'm more interested in something else. Where did all those foreign trolls go? Why aren't they saying anything anymore?]
...
Law's announcement that the operation had been successful finally reassured everyone in the real world who had been worried about Luo Qi.
At last, they could breathe easy!
Their challenger had survived!
And not only had he survived, but he'd also successfully eliminated one of the Seven Warlords of the Sea!
...
Meanwhile, in Dragon Kingdom.
Inside a modest office.
"Sir!"
The assistant took a deep breath before looking toward the elderly leader seated at the head of the room.
"Luo Qi is safe now."
"Do we still need to take action against the Never-Setting Sun Country?"
"Of course we do!"
The elderly man's expression immediately hardened.
"We absolutely cannot let those bastards get away with what they've done!"
"Exactly!"
Another elderly official nodded firmly.
"Luo Qi has been risking his life in the Forbidden Zone for Dragon Kingdom."
"And now, he's been deliberately targeted by a challenger from another country!"
"If we don't do something for him, how can we possibly justify ourselves?"
"That's right!"
"Even if Luo Qi himself is willing to overlook this incident, I certainly won't!"
"At the very least, we need to teach them a lesson!"
"Otherwise, other countries might start thinking they can target Luo Qi without facing any consequences!"
The moment the assistant raised the subject, the elderly officials began discussing the matter.
Their anger had not subsided simply because Luo Qi was out of danger.
After all, the Never-Setting Sun Country's actions had nearly cost Dragon Kingdom its challenger!
...
"You're right."
The elderly leader finally nodded.
His tone was exceptionally firm.
"This time, the Never-Setting Sun Country must give us an explanation."
"If we do nothing, those people might start looking down on us."
He paused briefly before continuing.
"Here's what we'll do."
"First, we'll arrange for all Dragon Kingdom citizens currently in the Never-Setting Sun Country to return home."
"Once they've returned, we'll take action."
A cold smile appeared on his face.
"Didn't the Never-Setting Sun Country claim that their challenger's actions weren't ordered by their government?"
"Well, we can use the same excuse."
He glanced toward the others.
"We'll have some of our Devil Fruit-powered soldiers pay them a visit."
"And make sure they leave a lasting impression."
"..."
For a brief moment, the office fell silent.
Then, several officials began smiling.
Clearly, they understood exactly what their leader was suggesting.
However—
"LEADERS!"
The assistant suddenly shouted.
Everyone turned toward him.
"LOOK AT THE SCREEN!"
His eyes had widened so much that they almost seemed ready to pop out of their sockets!
"What happened?"
The elderly officials immediately looked toward the livestream.
And in the next instant...
Their expressions became identical to the assistant's!
"...!"
Across the screen, several lines of golden announcements suddenly appeared!
The ordinary viewer comments, which had been scrolling endlessly, seemed to freeze in place.
It was as though the entire livestream had fallen silent to make way for the official announcements!
...
[Dragon Kingdom's challenger, Luo Qi, has submitted the C-rank Zoan-type Devil Fruit, Mole-Mole Fruit!]
[Reward: 300 Points!]
[Whoever consumes this Devil Fruit will gain the abilities of a mole, enhancing their physical capabilities and digging skills!]
...
[Dragon Kingdom's challenger, Luo Qi, has submitted the C-rank Zoan-type Devil Fruit, Dog-Dog Fruit, Model: Dachshund!]
[Reward: 300 Points!]
[Whoever consumes this Devil Fruit will gain the abilities of a dachshund, enhancing their physical capabilities and sense of smell!]
...
[Dragon Kingdom's challenger, Luo Qi, has submitted the C-rank Paramecia-type Devil Fruit, Dice-Dice Fruit!]
[Reward: 300 Points!]
[Whoever consumes this Devil Fruit will be able to transform any part of their body into a blade while making their skin as hard as steel!]
...
[Dragon Kingdom's challenger, Luo Qi, has submitted the A-rank Logia-type Devil Fruit, Sand-Sand Fruit!]
[Reward: 3,000 Points!]
[Whoever consumes this Devil Fruit will gain the ability to transform their body into sand, granting immunity to ordinary physical attacks and certain energy-based attacks!]
...
[Dragon Kingdom's challenger, Luo Qi, has opened a Silver Treasure Chest!]
[Congratulations! Luo Qi has obtained Intermediate Armament Haki!]
[This ability allows the user to strengthen and harden their body through Armament Haki!]
...
[Congratulations! Dragon Kingdom has obtained 100 Physique Enhancement Cards!]
[Each Physique Enhancement Card grants its user an additional 100 Physique Points!]
...
Silence.
Absolute silence!
The elderly officials stared at the announcements in disbelief.
One second passed.
Ten seconds.
Thirty seconds...
Only after nearly an entire minute did they finally recover!
Then—
CLAP! CLAP! CLAP!
The officials rose from their seats and burst into enthusiastic applause!
They beamed with excitement!
Not only had Luo Qi survived his battle against Crocodile, but he'd also secured an astonishing collection of rewards!
These resources would undoubtedly strengthen Dragon Kingdom!
And the fact that their nation possessed a challenger capable of achieving such feats filled them with immense pride.
"Four Devil Fruits!"
The elderly leader couldn't suppress his smile.
"And a hundred Physique Enhancement Cards!"
He laughed heartily.
"HAHAHAHA!"
"Looks like we're about to gain another hundred super soldiers!"
His eyes sparkled with excitement.
After all, the cards could directly enhance the Physique of one hundred selected individuals!
If those cards were distributed to Dragon Kingdom's most capable soldiers...
The resulting increase in combat strength could be extraordinary!
And that wasn't even counting the four newly acquired Devil Fruits!
...
Meanwhile, in Dragon Kingdom's livestream.
The viewers had completely lost control of their excitement!
[HOLY SHIT! HOLY SHIT! HOLY SHIT!]
[BROTHER QI IS ABSOLUTELY INSANE!]
[I DON'T EVEN KNOW WHAT TO SAY ANYMORE! WORDS CAN'T EXPRESS HOW MUCH I ADMIRE THIS MAN!]
[THREE C-RANK DEVIL FRUITS AND ONE A-RANK DEVIL FRUIT?!]
[AND THE A-RANK ONE IS A LOGIA-TYPE?!]
[If our country's soldiers eat those fruits, won't their combat strength skyrocket?!]
[Exactly! Even if the person who eats the Sand-Sand Fruit can't immediately become as powerful as Crocodile, defeating hundreds or even thousands of ordinary people shouldn't be difficult, right?!]
[And don't forget the hundred Physique Enhancement Cards!]
[Although this reward doesn't strengthen every citizen of Dragon Kingdom, we can choose exactly who receives the benefits!]
[Just imagine! A hundred soldiers whose physical attributes are ten times greater than those of ordinary people!]
[I'm getting excited just thinking about it! On a battlefield, wouldn't they be capable of charging through an entire army to take down its commander?!]
[Exactly! And that's not even considering the Devil Fruits!]
[Imagine giving the Sand-Sand Fruit to one of our soldiers and then using a Physique Enhancement Card on him!]
[Holy crap! I don't even know how to describe how powerful he'd become!]
[I strongly recommend that our country send a few of these soldiers to visit the Never-Setting Sun Country!]
[Agreed! We absolutely can't let what happened to Brother Qi go unanswered!]
[Wait, there's really no need for that, is there?]
[What our challenger did was his own personal decision! It had nothing to do with the Never-Setting Sun Country's government!]
[That's right! We support peace!]
[PEACE, MY ASS!]
[Weren't you bastards proudly celebrating what your challenger did just a little while ago?!]
[And now that Brother Qi has survived and our country has obtained all these rewards, you're suddenly scared?!]
[What a bunch of cowards! You bully the weak and fear the strong!]
[You had the courage to cause trouble, but you don't have the courage to face the consequences?!]
[Come on, everyone!]
[Let's go to the Never-Setting Sun Country's livestream and tell them all about Brother Qi's achievements!]
[We should make sure they're properly informed!]
[HAHAHAHA! GOOD IDEA!]
...
And so, a massive wave of Dragon Kingdom viewers flooded into the Never-Setting Sun Country's livestream.
Messages celebrating Luo Qi's victory began appearing one after another.
In no time at all, the entire chatroom was overwhelmed!
...
Meanwhile, in the Never-Setting Sun Country.
Inside the leader's office.
The country's leader stared at the livestream with an extremely ugly expression.
The screen was practically overflowing with comments from Dragon Kingdom's citizens!
Naturally, he had also witnessed Luo Qi's victory.
And he'd seen the extraordinary rewards Dragon Kingdom had just received.
The situation had become far worse than he'd anticipated!
"..."
For a long time, the leader remained silent.
Then, he slowly turned toward his assistant.
"Still no response?"
The assistant trembled.
"S-Sorry, sir!"
"Dragon Kingdom is refusing to communicate with us!"
"They aren't accepting our requests for talks!"
The assistant swallowed nervously.
"And several other countries are also expressing their dissatisfaction with our actions..."
BANG!
The leader suddenly slammed his hand against the desk!
The documents resting on its surface were sent flying!
"DAMN IT!"
"WHY HAS EVERYTHING TURNED OUT LIKE THIS?!"
His face flushed with anger.
For a moment, he became so furious that he nearly fainted!
However, he quickly forced himself to regain control.
"Quick!"
"Publish an official message congratulating Dragon Kingdom on its achievements!"
The assistant blinked.
"W-What?"
"And order our news organizations to release statements condemning our challenger's actions!"
"...!"
The assistant froze.
"But sir..."
"He's our country's challenger..."
"THIS ISN'T THE TIME TO WORRY ABOUT THAT!"
The leader glared furiously at him.
"Right now, our most important objective is to calm Dragon Kingdom down!"
"Do you want several super soldiers appearing in our country and causing trouble?!"
His voice rose almost to a roar!
"Besides!"
"Our challenger is currently inside the Forbidden Zone!"
"He can't see what's happening in the real world!"
"Whatever we say about him won't affect his actions!"
"DO YOU UNDERSTAND?!"
"Y-Yes, sir!"
The assistant nodded frantically.
"I understand!"
"I'll carry out your orders immediately!"
Without wasting another second, he hurried out of the office.
The leader watched him leave.
His teeth clenched tightly.
Then, after a moment's hesitation, he looked toward the telephone on his desk.
He reached for the receiver.
And once again...
He began dialing the number of Lighthouse Country's leadership.
...
Meanwhile, in the One Piece world.
"WHAT?!"
Baby 5's eyes widened.
"The poison was removed a long time ago?!"
After hearing Law's words, she immediately turned toward Reiju.
"YOU!"
"You shameless woman!"
"The poison is already gone!"
"WHY ARE YOU STILL KISSING LUO QI?!"
Baby 5 looked absolutely furious!
However, Reiju didn't appear particularly concerned.
"Oh my."
She finally raised her head.
A somewhat reluctant expression crossed her face.
"Has it already been that long?"
She slowly licked her bright red lips.
"My apologies."
"I was so focused on helping Captain Luo Qi that I completely lost track of time."
A playful smile appeared on her face.
Then, she turned toward Baby 5.
"Come on, Baby 5."
"Considering that I was helping save Captain Luo Qi's life, surely you can forgive me for such a small mistake?"
"Hehehe."
"...!"
Baby 5's cheeks puffed up in anger.
Reiju, however, seemed to find her reaction rather amusing.
Then, she lowered her gaze toward the man resting on her lap.
By now, Luo Qi had already opened his eyes.
Noticing this, Reiju's smile widened.
"Captain Luo Qi..."
She tilted her head slightly.
"How about helping me explain things to Baby 5?"
After all, she'd just saved his life!
Surely he wouldn't mind speaking up for her?
"..."
Luo Qi looked at Reiju.
Then, he glanced toward the furious Baby 5.
Finally, he looked back at Reiju.
Luo Qi: "..."
Chapter 95: Law: See That? That's Crocodile's Corpse!New2 days ago
"Ahem... Help me up."
Luo Qi cleared his throat and looked toward his companions.
"Although Crocodile is dead, Alabasta's rebellion still hasn't been resolved."
"Ace will probably only hold the two armies back temporarily. If we arrive too late and something unexpected happens, things could get ugly."
Rather than answering Reiju's teasing request, Luo Qi immediately shifted the conversation toward Alabasta's ongoing civil unrest.
In truth, he'd already regained full consciousness halfway through Law's operation.
Naturally, he'd felt the soft sensation against his lips, along with the occasional movements that didn't seem entirely necessary for removing poison.
However, Luo Qi wasn't sure whether those actions were actually part of Reiju's treatment.
Besides, his body had been too weak to move.
So he'd simply allowed her to continue.
He wasn't exactly complaining!
"That's right!"
Nojiko, who had been watching the exchange from nearby, suddenly nodded seriously.
"We have to help Vivi!"
"There's still a massive bomb hidden somewhere in the capital, isn't there? One powerful enough to kill a hundred thousand people!"
"Exactly."
Luo Qi nodded.
"If that bomb explodes, then even though we've killed Crocodile, our plan will still be a failure."
He turned toward Reiju.
"Reiju, you're fast. I need you to carry me to the capital."
"I still can't move properly, so I'll have to trouble you."
Then, he looked toward Law.
"Law, bring Crocodile's corpse with you."
"With his body as proof, we should be able to intimidate the Baroque Works agents hiding among the rebel army."
Luo Qi continued issuing instructions.
"Baby 5, Bepo, you two will protect Nami and Nojiko while traveling toward the capital."
"Smoker, Tashigi, you should accompany them for now."
Originally, Luo Qi had intended to have Smoker carry Crocodile's corpse to the capital.
However, after looking at the Marine Captain's battered condition, he quickly abandoned that idea.
Even if Smoker could move, there was no way he'd be able to travel particularly quickly.
It would be better to let him accompany Nami and Nojiko.
Besides, Crocodile's death didn't mean every member of Baroque Works had been eliminated.
With Smoker and Tashigi around, the others would have additional protection if they encountered any surviving agents.
...
"Captain."
Law frowned.
"Your body still hasn't recovered enough for you to move freely."
He bent down and picked up the Sandai Kitetsu that Luo Qi had dropped earlier.
"Why don't you stay here?"
"Reiju and I can handle the situation in the capital!"
"No."
Luo Qi shook his head.
"Among everyone here, I'm the only one who can use Observation Haki."
"If I go with you, it'll be much easier to search for the bomb."
He continued calmly.
"Besides, even though I can't move properly right now, that doesn't mean I can't use Observation Haki."
"..."
Hearing this, Law and the others exchanged concerned looks.
Naturally, they were worried about Luo Qi's physical condition.
He had only just survived a near-fatal injury!
However, what he said made sense.
Finding the bomb before it exploded was extremely important.
And with his Observation Haki, Luo Qi could potentially locate it much faster than anyone else.
After some consideration, everyone reluctantly agreed.
"Alright, Captain."
"Then we'll follow your instructions."
...
Once their responsibilities had been decided, nobody wasted another moment.
Everyone immediately began moving.
Reiju gently lifted Luo Qi into her arms, carrying him in a bridal hold.
Then—
BOOM!
Her high-tech boots struck the ground!
With the assistance of her Raid Suit, she accelerated toward Alabasta's capital at tremendous speed!
Meanwhile, Law didn't hesitate either.
He picked up the upper half of Crocodile's corpse.
Then, using Shave, he rapidly followed behind Reiju!
The two disappeared into the distance.
...
"Well then..."
Baby 5 looked toward the remaining members of the group.
"Let's get moving too."
Although she tried to appear calm, there was still a trace of worry in her eyes.
To be honest, she wanted nothing more than to remain at Luo Qi's side.
Especially after he'd nearly died!
However, Luo Qi had personally instructed her to protect Nami and Nojiko.
Since that was her captain's order, Baby 5 could only obey.
Nami and Nojiko were equally concerned about Luo Qi's condition.
Therefore, neither of them objected to setting off immediately.
The group quickly began making its way toward the capital.
...
"Nojiko."
As they traveled, Smoker suddenly spoke.
"You're absolutely certain that your crew has no connection to the Whitebeard Pirates, right?"
Apparently, he still hadn't managed to let go of the question.
After all, Luo Qi was a bounty hunter who had repeatedly demonstrated extraordinary abilities.
Smoker genuinely didn't want to discover that someone like him had some kind of secret connection to a notorious pirate crew.
Nojiko glanced toward him.
However, she didn't slow down.
"This was the first time any of us met Ace."
"Captain Luo Qi really doesn't have any connection to him."
Hearing this, Smoker nodded.
"I see."
Then, after a brief pause, he asked another question.
"In that case..."
"Can you explain why Luo Qi and that Law fellow are capable of using the Six Powers?"
"..."
Nojiko blinked.
As a Marine Captain, Smoker wasn't personally proficient in the Six Powers.
However, that didn't mean he couldn't recognize them!
During the battle against Crocodile, Luo Qi had repeatedly used techniques belonging to the Six Powers.
Law had also demonstrated the ability to use Shave.
If Smoker couldn't recognize such obvious techniques, he might as well give up being a Marine!
"About that..."
Nojiko smiled politely.
"I'm afraid I don't really know."
"Perhaps our captain is simply extraordinarily talented."
"Maybe he saw a Marine using those techniques in the past and learned them through observation."
"..."
Smoker considered her explanation.
Then, he nodded slightly.
"That certainly isn't impossible."
After all, although the Six Powers were closely associated with the Marines, they weren't exclusively available to Marine personnel.
There were people outside the organization who had mastered them.
And exceptionally talented individuals could sometimes grasp the principles of a technique simply by watching someone else perform it.
Since Nojiko didn't seem to know anything more, Smoker decided not to press the matter.
The group continued traveling toward the capital at the fastest speed they could manage.
...
Meanwhile, Luo Qi's group.
After more than ten minutes of traveling at full speed, Luo Qi and his companions finally approached Alabasta's capital!
And what greeted them was an extraordinary sight!
A massive wall of blazing flames stretched across the battlefield!
The inferno completely separated the rebel army from the kingdom's royal forces!
"..."
Luo Qi stared at the scene.
"Was that Ace's doing?"
Seeing the enormous wall of fire, he finally breathed a sigh of relief.
Although Ace was nowhere to be seen, he'd clearly fulfilled his promise!
The flames had successfully separated the two armies.
And because the wall had appeared so suddenly, the rebel soldiers seemed completely stunned.
Even though Ace was no longer visible, none of them dared to advance recklessly.
The same was true of the Baroque Works agents secretly hiding among the rebels.
For the moment, the fighting had been stopped!
Good.
At least we haven't arrived too late.
...
Luo Qi lowered his gaze toward the battlefield.
Soon, he spotted a familiar figure standing near the wall of flames.
"Vivi!"
The princess was currently speaking with one of the rebel army's leaders!
However, someone was missing.
Pell isn't with her?
Luo Qi frowned slightly.
Did he go searching for the bomb?
After thinking about it briefly, Luo Qi turned toward Reiju and Law.
"Reiju, Law."
"Pick up the pace."
"Let's get over to Vivi!"
"Understood!"
Both of them nodded.
Without hesitation, they accelerated once again!
...
Approximately one minute later.
Whoosh!
Two figures suddenly descended from the sky!
Reiju and Law landed beside Vivi!
"Huh?!"
Vivi immediately turned around.
"Miss Reiju!"
"Law!"
"You've arrived!"
However, her expression changed when she noticed the man Reiju was carrying.
"CAPTAIN LUO QI?!"
Her eyes widened.
"Y-You're injured?!"
"How serious is it?!"
"You're not in any danger, are you?!"
Vivi hurriedly approached them.
Her face was filled with concern.
Seeing her reaction, Luo Qi smiled reassuringly.
"Relax, Vivi."
"With Law and Reiju looking after me, I'll be fine."
Hearing this, Vivi finally felt somewhat relieved.
However, before she could ask anything else, Luo Qi turned toward Law.
He gave him a meaningful look.
Law immediately understood.
Without hesitation, he stepped forward.
Then—
THUD!
He casually threw something onto the sand in front of the rebel army!
It was the upper half of a man's corpse!
A man with slicked-back hair, a distinctive facial scar, and a massive golden hook!
Sir Crocodile!
The moment the rebels recognized the body, their expressions changed dramatically!
Law looked toward them.
Then, he spoke in a cold voice.
"Take a good look."
"This is the corpse of the man responsible for causing the civil unrest in your kingdom."
His gaze swept across the rebel soldiers.
"We know there are members of Baroque Works hiding among your ranks."
"And now..."
"Your leader has already been killed by our captain!"
Law gestured toward Crocodile's corpse.
"Whatever you people were planning, it's already failed."
"So I'd strongly advise you to behave yourselves."
He slowly rested a hand against the hilt of his sword.
"And you'd better not do anything that might cause me to misunderstand your intentions."
"..."
Law's cold gaze swept across the rebel army.
His warning was unmistakable.