Chapter 16 The Uninformed AudienceChapter 16: The Unknowing Audience"When a pirate abandons his name, it can only be when he dies in battle, Captain Kuro, you are not fit to be a pirate." Luke said to Kuro.Kuro raised his head, his heart filled with unwillingness.Three years of forbearance, all for today, only to be ruined by this brat in front of him."Don't be unwilling. My goal is the Grand Line, the New World. Your goal is only to escape Marinepursuit and the Kaya family's fortune. So, choose a dignified way to die, Kuro.""I'm not reconciled!"Kuro extended his sharp claws, still wanting to attack Luke.Luke smiled slightly and once again unleashed a lightning attack.Accompanied by a scream, Kuro collapsed, paralyzed and unable to move.The Black Cat Pirates, who were running, immediately stopped when they saw Captain Kurodefeated.Although they hadn't seen their Captain for three years, his terrifying strength from the past was vivid in their memories. If their Captain was defeated, what were they still doing here?The members of the Black Cat Pirates thought something was off and decided not to charge.However, there were two hotheads in the Black Cat Pirates: Buchi and Sham.Buchi's bounty was 7 million Berries, Sham's bounty was 7 million Berries, Jango's bounty was 9 million Berries, and Kuro's bounty was 16 million Berries.This means I'm also a pirate with a 16 million Berries bounty, Luke thought with a touch of emotion.The hotheads Buchi and Sham believed they had surpassed Captain Kuro. In these three years, they had raided many towns and defeated several pirate ships, greatly boosting their confidence.And that guy Kuro, he had been holed up here for three years, his strength hadn't improved."Kuro is defeated, he's not fit to be our Captain!" Sham said."That's right, our strength has already surpassed Kuro's."The two spoke in unison, and the other pirate members also began to cheer them on.Under such an atmosphere, the two hotheads decided to go into battle."You two, don't be reckless."Jango was very clear about everyone's strength. These two hotheads were practically asking for a beating. Kuro could easily take them down, let alone the guy who defeated Kuro with a hammer.The Black Cat brothers didn't care about Jango's attempts to stop them.Just at this moment, Nami and Zoro arrived."Was there a battle here?" Nami asked in surprise.Luffy grinned: "I took down the hypnotist, and Luketook down the damned butler."Seeing the butler lying there, charred all over, Namiwas very surprised: "Isn't that Kaya's butler? What exactly happened?"Nami, still unaware, was confused, and Usopp next to her explained the situation."So that's it, hiding for three years to steal someone else's treasure, how despicable. Well done, Lukeand Luffy!"Nami gave them a thumbs up.Zoro was a bit displeased: "They didn't even call me for the fight. There's still a bunch of small fry left, so let me take care of them.""Alright, Zoro, knock them all down!" Luffy cheered from the side.Now, the only remaining fighting force of the Black Cat Pirates were the two Black Cat brothers.For Zoro, they were no match.Luke watched calmly from the side, while Namicame over to him."How much do you know about Arlong?" Namisuddenly asked.Although Nami hadn't mentioned Arlong for so many days, she was actually very concerned about him."I know everything." Luke said."So, will you help me?" Nami asked.Luke swung his hammer and said, "I swear on this hammer, I will definitely help you."Hearing Luke's answer, Nami showed a happy and relieved smile.She was very happy that Luke chose to help her, but Nami also knew the strength of the Arlong Pirates, and she didn't want to implicate others.On the other side, the battle between Zoro and the Black Cat brothers began.Zoro immediately drew three swords and engaged the two in battle.The battle was not drawn out and ended quickly.Zoro took down both of them with a single Tiger Hunt.All the main fighting forces of the Black Cat Pirateswere defeated, scaring the pirate members into fleeing."Those damn guys, they actually ran away."Jango saw them flee and cursed angrily.Actually, Luke was quite interested in Jango's hypnosis.Coming up to Jango, Luke placed a hand on his shoulder and asked, "Mr. Jango, would you teach me hypnosis? My sleep quality hasn't been very good lately."Thor's Hammer swayed back and forth in front of Jango. This wasn't a question; it was a threat.Jango was a sensible man and immediately nodded in agreement."A sensible man." Luke put away his hammer. Jangobroke out in a cold sweat, fearing the hammer might suddenly smash into him.Actually, Luke wasn't very good at using hammers; his preferred weapons were swords or katanas.It's just that the best weapon identified right now was this hammer, so he had to make do with it.If one day a Zangetsu or a Tetsusaiga were identified, that would be great too.The battle with the Black Cat Pirates ended, attracting many villagers.The villagers, armed with weapons, came to the shore and saw Kuro lying there, looking very disheveled.In the villagers' impression, Kuro had always been a good butler, and his attitude towards the villagers was also good. Everyone had been deceived by Kuro's disguise.At this moment, the villagers were very angry, believing that everyone had attacked Kuro.Kaya and the old butler also arrived. Kaya rushed to the fallen Kuro, checking his injuries."Usopp, what exactly happened?" Kaya asked loudly.Usopp didn't know how to explain for a moment: "Listen to me, Miss Kaya, this butler is actually a pirate, the legendary Captain Kuro. He endured here for three years just to seize the treasures of your mansion. This is all what I just heard."Kaya found it hard to believe at once.Luke also noticed that something was amiss. Due to engaging Kuro earlier, the plot had changed, which was a serious problem. The immediate priority was to gain Kaya's trust, otherwise, there would be no Going Merry.The villagers on the side were all jeering: "You can't trust what Usopp says, he's a big liar.""Exactly, exactly, don't believe him!"The villagers' words broke Usopp's heart."I'm not lying to you. Look at that pirate ship, it hasn't left the port yet. That's the Black Cat Pirates!" Usopp said, pointing at the pirate ship."In that case, let them reveal the truth! Luffy, let's stop that pirate ship!" Luke said."No problem, Luke, hold on tight!"Luke hugged Luffy from behind.Luffy grabbed a tree trunk with both hands, then shot out like a slingshot.The two spun several times in the air, landing precisely in the sea."Save me, Luke, I can't swim, ah, I'm going to drown!" Luffy thrashed in the water."Can't you aim a little better!" Luke complained.Fortunately, having learned to swim, Luke grabbed Luffy and then climbed onto the Black Cat Pirate ship.The landing spot wasn't too far from the pirate shi
Chapter 17 Golden MerryChapter 17: The going merryThe members of the Black Cat Pirates, weapons in hand, looked at the two with trepidation.One of the pirates took the lead and said, "We have more people and weapons, we're not afraid of them!""Cough, cough!"Luffy lay there, not yet recovered from the weakness caused by the seawater.The Thor's Hammer in Luke's hand spun rapidly, sending out a crescent arc that knocked down all the approaching pirates.One pirate, a straggler, came before Luke, raising his long sword and bringing it down.Luke reacted quickly and easily gripped his wrist."Not enough strength, brother!"With a slight exertion of force from Luke, the pirate's wrist bone snapped.The pirates immediately cowered."Mercy, sir, mercy, sir.""No need for a massacre. Sail the ship back, explain to the villagers, reveal Kuro's entire plan, and then you can leave."Luke applied a little more pressure to his hand."Ah! It hurts, brothers, turn back, turn back, return to the shore."The Black Cat Pirates' ship once again docked at the shore, where the villagers were standing by in full readiness.Luke brought the pirates before the villagers, along with Jango the hypnotist, who was tied up by Zoro."Alright, speak. Tell us everything you know. If you dare to hide anything!"Luke unleashed a lightning attack, turning a nearby tree into charcoal.No one wanted to become charcoal, so they scrambled to speak out in fright."One by one. Let Jango speak!" Luke pointed at Jango.Jango opened his mouth to speak but hesitated, glancing at Kuro, who had been defeated over there. He was still afraid of Kuro."If you don't speak, you'll end up like him. You choose."Luke used a slight trick, and Jango revealed everything.The villagers were greatly shocked when they heard that this butler, who had hidden his identity, was actually Kuro, the once-famous captain of the Black Cat Pirates.Furthermore, their plan, to gain the villagers' goodwill and then murder Miss Kaya to seize her property, sent shivers down their spines; it was utterly heinous."Unforgivable!""Damned pirates.""Arrest them all!"The villagers were filled with righteous indignation, turning their anger towards the Black Cat Piratesand Kuro.The truth finally came out, and Luke also breathed a sigh of relief.Miss Kaya walked over and apologized to everyone."I'm sorry for misunderstanding you. Thank you for saving the town, no, I should say for saving me!"Usopp gave a simple smile: "Oh, it was nothing, just a small matter."Usopp acted very proud, as if all the credit just now was his alone.The villagers also apologized for their previous rash actions."What about these pirates then?" Nami asked."Let them go," Luffy said with a big heart.Let them go? Who knows if they might, on a whim, return to Syrup Village one day and attack the villagers."Let's hand them all over to the Marine," Lukesuggested.Nami was the first to raise her hand: "I agree."Zoro also raised his hand in agreement, and Usoppalso raised his hand in agreement.Luffy said with a hint of disappointment, "If they come back, I'll just send them flying again."Nami directly smacked Luffy on the head: "Can you make it back in time?""Ow! Ow!"Luffy clutched the bump on his head."No, I can't."Luffy also admitted his mistake.In the world of pirates, it is actually like the martial arts world; where there are Jianghu, there will be grievances. If they cannot be completely resolved, then more trouble will be encountered later.All these pirates were tied up and handed over to the villagers for safekeeping.They waited for the Marine to come and take them away.Usopp ran off again to brag to his three subordinates and Miss Kaya.In Usopp's description, the enemies were formidable, and he, as a hero, took down countless pirates, achieving great feats.The three subordinates were greatly shocked to hear this, and Kaya was somewhat skeptical. After so many years, even though she knew Usopp often lied, Kaya never exposed him. She really enjoyed the stories Usopp told.For Kaya, there weren't many peers on the island, especially since she was physically weak and spent all her days lying in her mansion, with no one to talk to.Having a companion to chat with was a very happy thing.In the town's restaurant, the owner warmly entertained everyone.Miss Kaya said, "My illness this past year was caused by the grief of losing my parents, and I also received a lot of encouragement from Usopp. I can't keep being so childish anymore. I've caused you all a lot of trouble, thank you. I have prepared a gift for everyone, as a small token of my appreciation. Please accept it."Luke's heart skipped a beat. Finally, the Going Merrywas here. Fortunately, this ship was still given according to the original plot.By the brilliant beach, a light sailboat was docked.With its cute white sheep's head and two huge masts, it was hundreds of times better than their previous ride."This is a pirate ship," Luke said with a smile.Nami, Zoro, and Luffy all exclaimed when they saw the ship, and Luffy's eyes lit up."A light sailboat," Nami blurted out, her expression filled with affection for the ship.Luffy's mouth formed an O shape: "Can we really accept it?"Kaya smiled slightly: "Yes, please do use it."The old butler began to explain the ship: "Although the design is a bit old, this is a ship I designed. It's a light sailboat with a central rudder at the stern, using a triangular sail. It's called the going merry."Next, the butler began to explain the operating methods to everyone.To be honest, Luke, Luffy, and Zoro listened but didn't really hear anything; only Nami understood what the butler was saying."What a great ship, especially this figurehead, it's so cool!" Luffy was truly very satisfied with this ship.Kaya smiled slightly: "Everything you might need for your voyage has already been loaded.""Thank you, misfortunes never come singly!"Luffy expressed his gratitude to Kaya, but unfortunately, he used the wrong idiom, suffering from his lack of education.Zoro retorted, "It's 'thoughtful and meticulous,' you idiot!"Luke cleared his throat, took out a cherry, and handed it to Kaya.This cherry had been appraised earlier; it could regulate the body's condition and restore bodily functions, making it an excellent tonic."This is no ordinary cherry, but a powerful tonic that restores the body's condition after eating it. I would like to give it to you, beautiful Miss Kaya.""Oh, such a valuable gift." Kaya felt a little embarrassed.Nami took the cherry, placed it directly in Kaya's hand, and holding Kaya's hand, said, "Luke is our appraiser. You might not have heard of this profession, but he can create many magical things. You must believe him. Even this powerful tonic cannot repay our gratitude for the ship you've given us."Kaya no longer refused and immediately ate the potent cherry. She chose to believe Luke.A few seconds later, Miss Kaya, who had been pale, looked rosy.Kaya could personally feel the changes in her body; she no longer coughed, and her spirits were no longer low."What a magical cherry," Kaya couldn't help but exclaim.Hearing Kaya's exclamation, everyone laughed happily, Kaya also laughed happily, and the old butler showed a relieved smile.
Chapter 18: Rare Beast IslandChapter 18: Rare Animal IslandAs everyone admired the Going Merry, an unknown object rolled down from the hillside.Upon closer inspection, it was Usopp carrying a huge green package.Seeing Usopp with the giant package rolling towards them, Luke and Luffy simultaneously kicked out, blocking Usopp.Both their feet precisely landed on Usopp's face at the same time.Seeing Usopp carrying luggage, Kaya understood that Usopp was planning to set sail."You're really going out to sea, Usopp."Kaya was a little reluctant.Usopp put his hands on his hips and looked out at the sea: "I need to leave quickly before my resolve wavers, don't stop me!"Kaya stood gently to the side: "I won't stop you, because I've had a premonition for a long time."Usopp laughed heartily: "When you say that, I actually feel a bit lonely. The next time I return to this village, I'll tell you an adventure story even more incredible than a lie."Kaya gently nodded: "Mm, I'll be looking forward to it."Soon after, Usopp officially joined the Straw Hat Pirates.As soon as Usopp got on the ship, he still wanted to be the Captain, but Luffy immediately refused him.Finally, the going merry set sail, and everyone waved goodbye to Kaya and the old butler.On the vast blue sea, the going merry cut through the waves, moving swiftly forward.Usopp stood at the front of the deck, arms crossed, his gaze surveying the world, in the posture of a king descending."Foolish pirates, do you still dare to attack, knowing that this going merry is the invincible fleet led by Captain Usopp?"Usopp brandished the homemade wooden sword at his waist, fantasizing about fighting pirates.After Usopp finished his chaotic swordplay, he found that no one was paying attention to him.Luffy sat there drawing a pirate flag, Nami sat on a wooden barrel checking a nautical chart, Zoro lay there sleeping, and Luke was appraising fruits.Usopp sighed: "I'm telling you guys, pay a little attention to others."Luke turned his head and saw the slingshot at Usopp's waist.Luke crooked his finger: "Bring me your slingshot."Although he didn't know what for, Usopp still took off the slingshot and handed it to Luke. This thing wasn't valuable anyway, if he lost it, he could make another one.Luke held Usopp's green slingshot, took a deep breath, and activated All-Things Appraisal.A golden light burst forth, causing everyone on the ship, who were busy with their own tasks, to gather around."Appraisal critical hit! Ordinary slingshot evolves into a Mighty and Stable Ultra-Long Range Green Slingshot!"Mighty Ultra-Long Range Golden Slingshot: With just a light pull, objects can be powerfully propelled, with extended range and enhanced stability.Like Zoro's wado ichimonji, it was a double-affix weapon, which significantly boosted Usopp's combat power."Woohoo, Usopp, quickly try the slingshot Lukeappraised."Luffy said impatiently.Usopp held the slingshot in his hand with a puzzled expression; it didn't look much different from before.But when he pulled the slingshot, the feel was distinctly different.Placing a small stone inside the slingshot, Usopppulled it lightly and then released it. The stone shot out and disappeared into the sky.Usopp's mouth dropped open: "This... this..."Nami smiled slightly: "That's Luke's ability; he can appraise any item. If you find anything rare in the future, you can ask Luke."Luke patted Usopp's shoulder and said: "Don't be too surprised. Now this slingshot has increased power and range, but you still need to adjust the accuracy yourself."Upon hearing this, Usopp felt that Luke was questioning his accuracy.As a sniper, Usopp confidently patted his chest and said: "As long as the range is sufficient, I can hit objects anywhere.""I believe you have that capability," Luke said."Hehe." Usopp rubbed his nose, feeling happy about being praised.At this moment, Luffy's pirate flag was also finished on the other side.Luffy took out the pirate flag he had drawn for everyone to see.How to describe it? It was hard to say, crooked and rudimentary graffiti.You could roughly make out a Straw Hat and a skull, but as a pirate flag, it would definitely make people laugh their heads off."Is that our symbol?" Zoro was stunned.Luffy felt good about himself, revealing his white teeth: "How is it? Pretty good, right?""A pirate flag is a symbol of death, a symbol of terror!" Zoro believed this pirate flag wouldn't instill fear in enemies.Nami agreed with Zoro: "It certainly feels terrifying, your talent."In other words, Luffy's drawing talent made his own crew feel terrified.Usopp volunteered and began drawing a new pirate flag.The first flag Usopp drew was based on himself, which Luffy immediately rejected.The second flag, the Straw Hat pirate flag, was successfully drawn by Usopp."Good, I like it." Luffy affirmed this flag.Immediately after, Luffy had Usopp also draw a huge Straw Hat pirate emblem on the sail.With all this done, the going merry was officially complete.After sailing for several hours, a dark cloud suddenly drifted over.Looking towards the dark cloud, an island could vaguely be seen, named Rare Animal Island.Nami took out her binoculars to observe: "That's it, no mistake.""Did you see anything interesting?" Luke asked."That's a legendary treasure island, you know. It's a very famous island in pirate circles, accompanied by strange legends. The legend says that those who approach that island will anger the gods." Namiexplained to everyone.Suddenly, a lightning bolt flashed through the dark clouds, scaring Usopp out of his wits, and heavy rain followed immediately."Is the legend really true? Is this the wrath of the gods?"Usopp lay on the deck, speaking nervously.Speaking of Rare Animal Island, Luke's mind brought up the old man whose body was stuck in a box, apparently named Gaimon.That fellow pretended to be a god, scaring away many pirates who tried to land on the island.His true identity was a pirate from over twenty years ago who, while trying to check the treasure on the mountaintop, accidentally fell into an empty box and couldn't pull his body out, becoming a box-man.Luke wasn't very interested in Gaimon, but the exotic animals on that island made him a little curious."Seems pretty interesting." Luffy was also very interested in that island.Nami was equally interested, but she was interested in whether there was any treasure on the island.Under Nami's command, everyone pulled ropes and adjusted the position of the sails.The ship, amidst the heavy rain, sailed precisely towards Rare Animal Island.The ship quickly arrived at Rare Animal Island, and as everyone landed, the heavy rain also stopped.As far as the eye could see, it was a genuine primeval forest.
Chapter 19 CarmonChapter 19: GaimonWalking through this primeval forest, the peculiar plants on both sides were a feast for the eyes.Carnivorous plants with tongues stretched out, emitting strange cries.Nami said, "It is said that somewhere on this island, amazing treasure is buried. Many pirates have landed here, but all of them fled before finding the treasure due to excessive fear.""For example, some pirates suddenly turned into wild boar faces in the dead of night, and others grew their beards longer and longer, eventually strangling themselves.""Don't, don't scare me!"Usopp hid behind Zoro.Looking around, many glowing eyes appeared in the dark jungle.Zoro yawned, lay on the ground, and immediately fell asleep.It only took him two seconds from lying down to snoring; his sleep quality was enviable."How can he even sleep in such a creepy place?" Usopp muttered softly."Indeed, how are his nerves even structured?" Namialso complained.Luke looked at a bush and found a snake.This snake had a very peculiar appearance: a snake body with a rabbit head, and even rabbit fur on its body.It was unknown whether such a combined creature was the result of a rabbit cheating or a snake having an affair.Luke temporarily called it a "Rabbit Snake."The Rabbit Snake's eyes were very indifferent, like dead fish eyes. It symbolically opened its mouth and howled at Luke, its voice like a small puppy.Looking up, a bat hung from a tree, with panda eyes, panda ears, a panda body, bat wings, and bat legs.It was unknown how the creatures here evolved; they completely dazzled Luke.Not far away, a Chicken Fox also stood.With a chicken's tail, a chicken's comb, and a fox's body, its appearance was truly unique.What was interesting was that the creatures here were not aggressive; they were all very gentle.The surrounding creatures became more and more numerous. Just then, a strange man's voice, deep and magnetic, came from the sky."Get out!""Who is it?" Luffy asked loudly."Get out! I am the guardian god of this island. If you want to live, get off this island immediately. You are pirates, aren't you?" the man said.Luffy answered decisively, "Yes.""Listen, try taking one more step into the forest. At that moment, will you be shattered by divine retribution or not?""How would I know? Why ask me?"Luffy found this person very strange.While the man was speaking, Luke followed the sound and began searching.In a bush, Luke found Gaimon, the man stuck in a box.Big eyes, a big mouth, large nostrils, thick eyebrows, and an Afro—he looked like a wild man.As Gaimon looked up, he saw Luke, who had a kind expression and was holding a large hammer."Don't move!"Gaimon pulled out a pistol and fired decisively.Luke quickly blocked the bullet by placing Thor's Hammer in front of the muzzle, then picked up the hammer and tapped Gaimon on the head, knocking him unconscious.It was already good that he didn't strike hard; he actually dared to shoot. Luke almost didn't control his strength and almost killed Gaimon with one hammer.Luke picked up the pistol, wiped it, and found its design very antique, like a medieval noble's pistol. Luke liked it very much.Everyone came to Luke's side and saw this strange man who was pretending to be a god."This guy is no god; he dared to trick us." Usopp was a bit angry.Luke scooped a ladle of seawater from the shore, came to Gaimon, and splashed it on him, waking him up.After Gaimon woke up, he began to recount his experiences.Living alone on this small island for twenty years, stuck in a box and unable to get out, accompanied by animals all day long, it sounded very pitiful.He stayed here because of his longing for the treasure chests on the mountaintop. Since he couldn't climb to the top, guarding these treasure chests became his inner hope for these twenty years.Luffy and the others felt quite sympathetic to Gaimon's plight, so they decided to help him go to the mountaintop to check on the treasure he had longed for for twenty years.The outcome was that there were indeed five treasure chests on the mountaintop, but they were all empty.In other words, these twenty years were wasted guarding empty boxes.Upon learning the truth, Gaimon cried out loud.Big-hearted Luffy directly invited Gaimon to join his crew.Gaimon was very grateful to Luffy, but he also knew his own situation, so he declined Luffy's invitation.He had lived on this island for so many years; leaving would make him uncomfortable.There were many cute animals and plenty of food here; Gaimon lived very comfortably here.Not everyone wanted to venture out like Luffy."After knowing there was no treasure, I felt free for the first time. From now on, I can truly live my own life. Actually, I still somewhat like staying in this box," Gaimon said.Luffy said, "Is that so? What a shame, old man, you're so interesting.""Are rare animals the true companions?" Zoro said."But you, old man, are the true rare animal," Luffyadded."What did you say?" Gaimon almost coughed up blood upon hearing that.Then everyone burst into laughter.The atmosphere of the Straw Hat Pirates was also a reason Luke liked being there.Before leaving Rare Animal Island, everyone, led by Gaimon, collected quite a few fruits."Are there any peculiarly shaped fruits, similar to Devil Fruit? If you haven't seen a Devil Fruit, something like a pineapple will do," Luke said.Gaimon was very familiar with this island.Gaimon replied without hesitation, "Go one kilometer east; there's an orchard there, and the fruits it bears should meet your requirements."Luke, carrying a bag, immediately headed one kilometer east.There, he indeed found the orchard.The fruits were shaped somewhere between a Devil Fruit and a pineapple. According to Gaimon, these fruits were more or less poisonous; they wouldn't kill you, but they would cause diarrhea.But it didn't matter; fruits identified with a skill would automatically evolve, and toxins would be removed accordingly—at least, Luke thought so.He took two sacks of fruits and returned to the Going Merry.Before leaving, Luke gave Gaimon the pistol he had taken earlier.After identification, this pistol became an infinite bullet flintlock. It was a gift from Gaimon for guiding him to the fruits.Perhaps among these two sacks of fruits, a top-tier Devil Fruit could be identified."You won't have to worry about bullets anymore, Uncle Gaimon," Luke said.Gaimon looked at his pistol with skepticism, not believing it had infinite bullets.It wasn't until he fired dozens of shots into the sky and found that the bullets hadn't run out that he believed Luke."That's incredible! I can't accept this pistol for free. I'll give you this ancient gold coin I've treasured for a long time."Gaimon pulled out an antique gold coin from his box, about half the size of a palm, and gave it to Luke.Luke gladly accepted the gold coin, and then the Straw Hat Pirates said goodbye to Gaimon and left Rare Animal Island on the going merry.
Chapter 20 Brothers in NeedChapter 20: Brothers in AdversityOn the vast blue ocean, the going merry sailed along the route Nami had set.Not far from the ship's hull, a reef emerged, perfect as a target.Luffy and Usopp focused their attention on the cannon that came with the Going Merry.Luffy aimed the cannon at the reef, then lit the fuse.After several consecutive shots, not a single one hit the target, and they seemed to be landing further and further away."I told you to let me try!" Usopp volunteered.Usopp approached the cannon, calculated the distance, and adjusted the trajectory."Fire!"With a shout from Usopp, the cannonball shot out, accurately striking the reef and blowing it in half.A direct hit! Truly worthy of Usopp, the sniper.Luffy exclaimed, "That's amazing! It's decided, you'll be the sniper.""What? Aren't I the Captain?""I'm the Captain!"The two argued for a while, then Usopp declared that he would temporarily let Luffy be the Captain."Speaking of which, before we enter the Grand Line, it seems we still need one more position," Luffy said."That's true, especially with such a beautiful kitchen," Luke added."That's an indispensable position for a long journey," Zoro said.Everyone knew it should be a chef, but Luffy's reply was, "Right? I knew a pirate ship needed one, a musician!"Zoro was furious: "You're an idiot!"Nami was also speechless: "What do you think sailing is?"Usopp also shook his head: "I thought for once he'd say something sensible.""Because pirates always sing," Luffy said.As everyone chatted in the kitchen, a noise came from the deck.A rough male voice boomed: "Come out, pirates!"Luke recalled that it should be Zoro's two pirate hunter brothers, Johnny and Yosaku.The cannonball Usopp had just fired destroyed the reef, and the two of them happened to be resting underneath it. Luckily, they weren't blown to bits.They had now come looking for them, and they were very angry."Who are you?" Luffy asked, pushing open the door.Johnny, holding a large sword, said, "Cut the chatter, what does it matter who I am?"Then he directly swung his sword at Luffy, who narrowly dodged it.Zoro hadn't intended to come out, but hearing a very familiar voice, he stepped out to check the situation."I say, you wouldn't happen to be Johnny, would you?"Zoro walked out of the room and saw Johnny, who had been knocked down by Luffy.Johnny recognized who it was."It's Big Brother Zoro!""It really is Johnny."Johnny sat up in surprise: "Big Brother, what are you doing here?""Where's Yosaku? Isn't he with you?" Zoro asked.At the mention of Yosaku, Johnny looked very distressed.Yosaku was sick with scurvy, caused by a lack of Vitamin C, and had been bleeding uncontrollably.He also recounted how they were almost blown up while resting on the reef earlier.Luffy and Usopp were shocked to hear this; they were the ones who blew up that reef, almost killing the brothers Johnny and Yosaku."We're sorry!"Luffy and Usopp bowed simultaneously to apologize.Luke took out some oranges and handed them to Johnny."Give him these to eat, to supplement Vitamin C, and he'll get better."Hearing that oranges could cure the illness, Luffyand Usopp immediately rushed to the storeroom to find oranges.Soon after, the two returned with many oranges and went to Yosaku, squeezing orange juice into his mouth. Then, finding it too troublesome, they stuffed his mouth full of oranges."If there's no delay, he'll be fine in a few days," Lukesaid.No sooner had he spoken than Yosaku, who had been unconscious, stood up.Johnny and Yosaku linked arms and began to dance in circles."Holy cow, he recovered that fast?" Luke marvelled at the guy's physique, wondering if it was a final burst of energy or if he was naturally robust."Full nutrition, resurrected!""That's great, partner!"The two danced, shouting slogans."How could he get better so quickly!" Namicomplained."But I'm really surprised. I never thought the pirate hunter Zoro would become a pirate," Johnny said.Zoro walked up to them, extending his hand: "Are you alright!"The three shook hands, but just as Yosaku was about to shake hands, he collapsed again. It seemed he hadn't fully recovered.After this incident, everyone learned a lesson.During long sea voyages, various health problems can arise due to imbalanced nutrition.Therefore, the immediate priority was to find a good chef.Speaking of chefs, Johnny smiled slightly and said confidently, "If you're looking for that kind of chef, I know a good place.""But it's very close to the Grand Line, and rumors of the man Hawkeye, whom Big Brother is looking for, have always circulated there."At the mention of Hawkeye, Zoro immediately perked up, gripping his sword hilt, full of fighting spirit.With Zoro's current ability, he was no match for Hawkeye. Not just Zoro, but the entire Straw Hat Crew was no match.Luke also pondered how he could defeat Hawkeyewith his current abilities if he were to face him.Luke's assessment of Hawkeye was that he was on the level of the Three Admirals, approaching the strength of a Four Emperors.To defeat Hawkeye, mastering all three types of Haki was essential, and he would also need to master Ryuo and Haoshoku Coating.Or, eating a good Devil Fruit and awakening its power would give him a chance to defeat such a world-class top-tier expert.It wasn't that Luke was exaggerating Hawkeye's strength; Hawkeye's position in the pirate world was the World's Strongest Swordsman, and he was the existence Zoro wanted to surpass.The World's Strongest Swordsman, besides the swordsman among the Gorosei, was the most skilled with a sword. How could his strength be weak?If one had to compare someone to Hawkeye, it would be Red Hair Shanks, one of the Four Emperors.In terms of swordsmanship, Hawkeye had an edge, but Shanks' Haki was stronger.Overall, Shanks was slightly more powerful, but not by much.As Luke pondered who was stronger between Hawkeye and Red Hair, Johnny waved his hand, pointing out the chef's location."The direction is northeast by north!"The going merry adjusted course and set off for the sea restaurant Baratie.They were finally going to a sea restaurant. Recently, the meals they ate were only to satisfy hunger, completely devoid of deliciousness.As soon as Sanji was recruited, they would be able to eat delicious meals every day. Just thinking about it was wonderful.After several days of sailing, they finally arrived at the sea restaurant Baratie.From afar, the sea restaurant looked like a giant fish, with the bow as the fish head and the hull colored in a combination of pink and green.Around the restaurant, many ships that had come from far and wide were docked.On the restaurant's deck stood many dignitaries.Everyone's purpose for coming here was singular: to enjoy exquisite cuisine.
Chapter 21 Sea RestaurantChapter 21: Baratie, the Sea RestaurantA Marine warship, also heading to the Sea Restaurant, passed by the Going Merry.The warship did not attack the Going Merry.A man with pink hair, a scar on his face, and wearing a white suit stood on the deck and said to everyone, "I am Captain Fullbody of Marine Headquarters. Who is the Captain? State your name."Luffy stepped forward: "I am Luffy."Usopp stepped forward: "I am Usopp."Luffy continued, "The pirate flag was just made yesterday."Usopp said, "I drew the pirate flag."Their back-and-forth made Fullbody think they were idiots."That's hilarious."Beside Fullbody, a glamorous woman in a red dress appeared.The woman held Fullbody's arm and said, "Let's go quickly."Her voice was soft and pleasant.Fullbody then turned and left with the woman.The warship docked next to the Sea Restaurant, and the two walked hand-in-hand to a small boat to go to the restaurant.As he stepped into the small boat, Fullbody gave an order to the Marine to sink the Straw Hat pirate ship.The warship aimed its cannons at the Going Merry, and a cannonball shot out."Leave it to me!"In a moment of crisis, Luffy stepped forward and used his body to block the cannonball.Luffy then bounced the cannonball away, and by an unfortunate coincidence, it landed on the Sea Restaurant Baratie, blowing a large hole in the roof of the second floor of the Sea Restaurant.What was blown up was Red-Leg Zeff's bedroom, who was also the head chef and owner of the restaurant."Boss, are you alright!"The chefs rushed to the second floor to check on Zeff.Fortunately, Zeff was sturdy; besides a little blood from his head, he was fine.Several chefs came to the Going Merry, swarmed over, and dragged away the troublemaker, Luffy.Since they blew up someone's restaurant and almost blew up the owner, Luke and the others had no reason to fight with the chefs; they were in the wrong.Thus, everyone watched as Luffy was dragged away by the chefs, dragged up to the second floor of the restaurant, and had a face-to-face conversation with Red-Leg Zeff.Luffy saw that Zeff had lost a leg and thought he had blown it off, so he immediately apologized profusely.Zeff's leg was actually gone long ago; many years prior, when he and Sanji were stranded on a deserted island, he cut off his own leg for survival."Idiot!" Zeff kicked Luffy, indicating that his leg had been gone for a long time.Zeff then demanded that Luffy pay for medical expenses and ship repair costs.Luffy bluntly said he had no money, so he would have to work on the ship to pay it back.Zeff demanded Luffy work for a year, but Luffy only wanted to work for a week, and the two remained at a stalemate.On the other side, Luke, Nami, Zoro, and Usopp took a small boat to the restaurant."Since this place is so famous, let's order something to eat first," Luke suggested."Completely agree," Usopp said."I approve!" Nami said."I'm hungry too," Zoro said.They weren't worried about Luffy; fools often have good fortune.Pushing open the restaurant door, Luke's gaze fixed on Sanji.Black suit, golden hair, curly eyebrows, and a cigarette dangling from his mouth, with a cool expression.If he saw a beautiful woman, it would be a completely different look.Luke was somewhat impatient to eat the food Sanjimade.The four found a table and started ordering.Unfortunately, the waiter was another chef.At another table not far away, the Marine CaptainFullbody was showing off in front of the beautiful woman.But his showing off failed; instead, he was humiliated by Sanji, which infuriated Fullbody.The mocking glances from around him made Fullbody unable to bear it; it was a complete disgrace.So, Fullbody stepped on a bug on the floor and threw it into his soup bowl."Waiter, does your restaurant serve soup with bugs in it to customers?"Fullbody called Sanji over and questioned him directly."A bug?" Sanji frowned.With his pursuit of perfection in cooking, it was impossible for there to be a bug. Sanji understood that this guy was here to cause trouble.Fullbody pointed at the bug in the soup and said, "What exactly is this bug?"Fullbody smiled slightly, thinking the restaurant was finished, its reputation ruined.Who knew Sanji's reply would be even more cutting."I'm sorry, customer, I'm not quite sure what kind of bug this is. I don't have much research on insects," Sanji said coolly, a cigarette in his mouth.Everyone around them burst into laughter, and even the beautiful woman who came with Fullbody was amused by Sanji's witty reply.This completely stripped Fullbody of his dignity.Fullbody's pride couldn't take it anymore; he roared and smashed the table in front of him.The unfinished food spilled all over the floor.This instantly maxed out Sanji's anger, as he adhered to the principle of not wasting food.The two clashed head-on, and in a single exchange, Fullbody was subdued.With a simple kick, Fullbody was rendered immobile, then Sanji lifted him into the air like an eagle snatching a chick."Opposing a chef at sea is equivalent to seeking death," Sanji said expressionlessly.Luke watched for a while with great interest, then pulled out the gold coin Gaimon had given him.It had to be said, this gold coin had a nice texture and felt quite unusual.He decided to appraise it right here, hoping to identify something useful."Another appraisal!" Usopp leaned in close."I want to see too."Nami's love for gold coins was beyond what ordinary people could comprehend.Luke took a deep breath, rubbed the gold coin in his hand, and used the skill Appraisal of All Things."Ding! Appraisal successful. The Ancient Gold Coin has evolved into a Coin of Destiny. Coin of Destiny: can block three fatal attacks."The coin in his hand was no longer ancient but had become lustrous, and the pattern on it had changed to a pentagram. It felt like it held a mysterious power."It doesn't seem to have changed much," Usoppsaid, staring at the appraised Coin of Destiny."It would be great if the gold coin could be appraised into a diamond," Nami said.The two of them didn't know the function of the Coin of Destiny, so they seemed a little disappointed.But for Luke, his heart was blooming with joy.Blocking three fatal attacks meant he had three extra lives!After all, this wasn't an infinite-life arcade game; once you died, you were gone. How important it was to have an extra life.Luke immediately put away the Coin of Destiny; it would automatically defend him in case of fatal danger.Just then, the ceiling above them cracked open.Luffy and Red-Leg Zeff from the second floor fell down. The two, due to their fight, had directly broken through the roof and landed on the first-floor restaurant floor.They were still arguing after landing."It's all your fault, kid!""You broke it yourself, old man!"While Luffy and Zeff argued here, on the other side, the chefs held back Sanji, not letting him continue to beat Fullbody.The scene was too lively; truly befitting the Sea Restaurant Baratie.
Chapter 22 SanjiChapter 22 Sanji"I just can't stand self-righteous guys like you!"Sanji was being held back by the chefs, otherwise, he would have beaten Hopody to a pulp."Who do you think you are?!"Sanji's eyes were bloodshot, scaring Hopody so much that he collapsed to the ground, all his previous arrogance gone.Seeing Sanji making such a scene, Zeff immediately scolded him, then kicked Sanji flying.Lying on the ground, Hopody smiled when he saw Sanji getting beaten, thinking the boss was coming to his rescue.However, Zeff immediately followed up with a kick to Hopody, sending him flying even further. Both of them were punished equally.Hopody was beyond shocked, doubting the nature of this restaurant, wondering if the customer was truly God.Just then, a Marine stumbled into the restaurant's entrance.The Marine was bleeding and pale."It's bad, Captain, we let Krieg Pirates' subordinate escape!" the Marine said.The one who escaped was Gin, the Demon.Rumors among fans say that Aramaki, one of the Admirals two years later, is Gin, but this has not yet been confirmed.Luke felt that such rumors were just for entertainment."How is that possible? When we caught him three days ago, he was practically starving to death, and we haven't given him anything to eat since!" Hopody said.The Krieg Pirates were very famous, known as the strongest pirate crew in the East Blue.The diners in the restaurant were all terrified when they heard about Krieg's crew.At this moment, Gin also appeared.Gin, the Demon, walked in with a pistol, and casually shot the Marine who was relaying the message at the door. The restaurant's diners were also frightened away by the gunshot.Killing a Marine just like that, Luke's brows furrowed slightly.Gin walked directly to an empty seat, sat there, and said, "Anything. Serve it quickly."This guy had been starving for many days; it was a miracle he was still alive.However, he had no money and was very weak, so he was beaten up by the burly chef, Patty, and then thrown into the corridor outside.Sanji saw that Gin was hungry and remembered his own past. He knew the feeling of starvation, so Sanjisaid nothing and quietly went to the kitchen to cook for Gin.Luke and Luffy came to the corridor to check on Gin's condition.Gin was lying there, claiming he wasn't hungry at all, but his stomach was constantly rumbling."Luke, give him some Power Pills," Luffy said."Those aren't Power Pills, they're Recovery Pills. If he takes a Power Pill in this state, he'll die from exhaustion."While Power Pills were good, they also overtaxed the body. If Gin took one in his current condition, he would be excited and then simply drop dead.Luke approached Gin and said, "Come on, open your mouth.""I'm not hungry. I don't need your charity."Gin's reply was very firm."Our Captain has spoken, so hurry up and eat it."Luke directly stuffed the pill into his mouth."Ah, what did you make me eat?"Gin struggled painfully, then immediately realized that he was no longer hungry.Luffy, standing nearby, burst into laughter: "Haha, a pill that restores one's physical strength after eating it is truly amazing."Gin was also incredulous; in all his years as a pirate, he had never eaten anything so miraculous.With his strength restored, Gin immediately knelt on the ground: "Thank you very much!"Luke suddenly felt something was off. It should have been Sanji coming out with food, letting Gin eat it, and then Gin being moved to tears by the deliciousness.Now that he had fed Gin, what about Sanji?Speaking of the devil, Sanji pushed open the door and walked out, holding a plate of seafood fried rice.Sanji placed the seafood fried rice in front of Gin, then lit a cigarette and sat coolly on the deck, saying, "Eat!"If it had been the starving Gin from before, he would have lost control at the smell, but now he was full."I'm sorry, I'm full," Gin said.The cigarette in Sanji's hand almost dropped to the ground."Bastard, didn't you just say you were very hungry?"Gin pointed at Luke and said, "He made me eat a pill, and after eating it, I was full."Sanji looked at Luke; it was the first time he had seen such a handsome man, so much so that Sanjifelt a bit jealous."What kind of pill? I don't believe there's anything in this world besides food that can make a person full."Luke again took out a Recovery Pill; these were all identified from the fruit pits he had eaten before."You try it!"Luke handed the pill to Sanji, and at the same time, picked up Sanji's seafood fried rice.Sanji's cooking was something Luke had been longing for, and he could finally taste it.Just the aroma of the rice was exhilarating.Luke eagerly took a spoonful to taste it, and the wonderful flavor almost made Luke's clothes burst.The food he had eaten at sea during this time was too bland compared to Sanji's cooking.Not only Luffy, but even Luke felt that Sanji must be recruited to join the Straw Hat Pirates."Delicious, so delicious," Luke gave Sanji a thumbs up.Luffy also ran over, grabbing the rice with his hands and stuffing it into his mouth."Delicious, delicious."A whole plate of rice, Luke hadn't even eaten a few bites, and the rest was devoured by the foodie, Luffy.Seeing Luke and Luffy eat the food completely, Sanji's favorable impression increased significantly.Sanji picked up the pill and put it into his mouth.Sanji thought it was impossible for such a small pill to make a person full.The pill melted in his mouth, and a warm energy flowed down his esophagus into his stomach. A feeling of fullness gradually appeared; he wasn't hungry at all, and his body was full of vitality."It's actually true."This pill brought Sanji a huge shock.If they had such pills during their voyage, everyone wouldn't have to suffer from hunger, so what would they need a chef for?Luke also noticed some clues and then said, "These pills are very rare, and they have no taste, just like eating ten bowls of rice."The pill could indeed make a person full, but it didn't bring any taste enjoyment, and the probability of identifying such pills was not high; it depended entirely on luck, fortunately, Luke was handsome."Hahahaha, I've found a good chef!" Luffy ate with relish, and after finishing, he couldn't help but lick the plate.Luffy then said, "Hey, Chef, join us."Sanji, with a cigarette in his mouth, stared blankly at Luffy.Luffy continued, "Be the chef on my pirate ship."Not only Sanji, but Gin also looked bewildered; he had never seen such a straightforward recruitment of crew members.After the shock, Sanji composed himself: "You're a pirate, aren't you?"Luffy nodded."Then why did you attack this restaurant with cannonballs?""That was an accident. It was a stray bullet from self-defense," Luffy explained.
Chapter 23: Usopp's Wailing"Anyway, it's best not to mess with this restaurant, because the owner himself was a chef for a famous pirate crew.""That old guy was a pirate?" Luffy said."To that old geezer, this restaurant is like his treasure. Plus, the chefs who come here to learn from him are all hot-blooded guys just like pirates. For a place where pirates frequently come and go, they are the perfect fit."Luffy suddenly said: "You should join us."Sanji refused directly: "I have a reason why I must work at this restaurant."Li Xiao knew that Sanji stayed here to repay Zeff."No, I refuse." Luffy refused Sanji's refusal.Sanji was still bewildered: "Re...refuse what?""I refuse your refusal. You're a good chef, so come be a pirate with me." Luffy crossed his arms, acting as if Sanji was already a member of the Straw Hat Pirates.Sanji was speechless: "At least listen to me!""What's the reason?""No need to tell you.""Huh? Didn't you just tell me to listen?"Sanji couldn't take it anymore: "I meant for you to accept my opinion! Watch it or I'll chop you up, you stinking Straw Hat."Luffy got angry too: "What did you say? You dare talk bad about this Straw Hat? Watch it or I'll beat you up, you jerk."Seeing Luffy and Sanji arguing, Li Xiao knew that the Straw Hat Pirates were about to get lively.At this moment, Gin, who hadn't spoken for a while, interjected.Gin introduced himself, saying he was a member of the Krieg Pirates, and gave Luffy, who wanted to enter the Grand Line, some advice: don't go to the Grand Line."You're still young, no need to rush.""Is that so? What do you know about the Grand Line?" Luffy wasn't afraid at all."No... I don't know anything."Mentioning the Grand Line, Gin seemed to lose his memory, as if he recalled a terrifying figure or had forgotten that memory entirely.Afterward, Gin said goodbye to everyone and returned on his small boat.Before leaving, he specifically thanked Li Xiao for the pill he had given him."Thank you, Mr. Li Xiao. I will not forget your kindness."Gin's departure would inevitably bring the Krieg Pirates, as well as that terrifying man, the world's greatest swordsman, Hawkeye.Thinking about meeting the world's top powerhouse here, Li Xiao felt his body trembling—not from fear, but from excitement.Just then, Zeff appeared on the second floor of the restaurant and yelled: "Sanji, the chore boy, get back to work, both of you!"Luffy helplessly ran off to do chores, and Sanjireturned to the kitchen to cook.Li Xiao stretched and returned to the restaurant to continue eating.At the dining table, Zoro was eating big mouthfuls, Usopp was playing with a spinning top, and Namiwas looking at the seascape, her thoughts drifting somewhere else.Li Xiao tried to appraise a grain of rice. Since he could appraise anything, he wouldn't let a grain of rice slide."Ding! Appraisal successful. The grain of rice has evolved into a 'Virility-Restoring Maca Rice Grain.' After eating it, a man will regain his vigor."He didn't know if this thing had any side effects."Usopp, eat this grain of rice." Li Xiao handed the grain to Usopp.Usopp looked at the grain in his hand, full of curiosity: "What is this? It's just a brown grain of rice. Does it have any special effects?""You'll know once you eat it." Li Xiao gave him a look, letting him figure it out himself."Then I'll give it a try. Ah~~~"Usopp ate the grain of rice and drank a cup of water along with it."Hmm... doesn't seem to do anything. Wait."Usopp suddenly looked down and realized something was wrong, and the trend was becoming increasingly intense."Li Xiao, you guy, what exactly did you feed me?"Usopp covered his crotch, afraid of being noticed by those around him."Virility-Restoring Maca Rice Grain, a freshly appraised item. You're the first one to eat it." Li Xiao gave him another look, letting him figure it out himself."Who would be proud of being the first to eat this? You jerk! I'm never eating anything you give me again."Usopp covered his crotch and ran quickly to the restroom. As for what he was doing, that remained unknown."Hahahaha!" Zoro held his stomach and laughed out loud. Usopp's embarrassing moment was too funny.Nami was also amused, laughing at Usopp's predicament."Li Xiao, I'm not done with you!" Usopp's shout came from the restroom.From then on, Usopp had a new nickname in the Straw Hat Pirates: "Usopp the Upright," a nickname given by Li Xiao.Because of this nickname, Usopp often played pranks on Li Xiao, but most of the time, Usopp was the one who got pranked back.At this time, everyone saw Luffy doing chores.Luffy was also surprised; he was doing chores, while his crew members were sitting there happily eating."I heard you have to do chores for a year." Li Xiao held a crab and took a small sip.Zoro said: "Can the pirate flag be redrawn?"Luffy felt very unbalanced: "You... you guys, actually eating such delicious food while I'm away? That's too much!"Zoro said calmly: "That's our freedom, right?"Zoro laughed out loud after saying that.Luffy couldn't take it. Taking advantage of Zoro's laughter, he picked a booger and flicked it into Zoro's water glass.Li Xiao and Nami were both shocked by Luffy's move.Zoro picked up the water glass, pretending not to know, and was about to drink it when he suddenly reached out, grabbed Luffy, and poured the water with the booger into Luffy's mouth.The word "marvelous" wasn't enough to describe it.Luffy lay on the ground, struggling continuously: "What have you done? My stomach hurts, my stomach hurts."Nami was about to burst out laughing at this scene. It was also Li Xiao's first time seeing someone drink such a large booger; it was a case of eating his own supply.The commotion here caught the attention of Sanji, who was pouring wine for a beautiful woman over there.At first, Sanji found the noise annoying, but when he looked closer, he saw Nami.Young, beautiful, and full of youthful energy, Namicaptured Sanji's heart instantly.Not knowing where he got a rose from, Sanji walked up to Nami and chanted: "Oh, ocean, thank you for granting me this encounter today."Sanji knelt on one knee and presented the flower to Nami.Nami stopped laughing, completely dumbfounded by Sanji's sudden flower presentation.Sanji continued to talk to himself: "Oh, love, mock me for being unable to bear this pain. As long as I am with you, whether it means becoming a pirate or a demon, I have made my resolve."Sanji's eyes turned into red heart shapes, his admiration for Nami flowing like a continuous river."However, it is truly tragic that such a huge obstacle exists between us." Sanji continued his chanting.Zeff appeared at this moment: "The obstacle you're referring to is me, right, Sanji?""Old geezer.""This is a good opportunity. How about you go and be a pirate with them? This restaurant doesn't need you anymore."Sanji's expression became extremely shocked.
Chapter 24: Creek PiratesChapter 24: The Krieg Pirates"You're just a burden to this place, that's what I mean."Zeff said, leaning on the dining table.A divine assist from Zeff, a man with a sharp tongue but a soft heart.He knew Sanji didn't belong here, and at the same time, he saw Captain Luffy, a Captain he could trust Sanji with, and the Straw Hat that represented a legend.Saying this was nothing more than to make Sanjisteel his heart and leave, to pursue his dream, that place called "All Blue.""Anyway, the cooks don't like you. Why don't you just become a pirate or something and get out of this restaurant?" Zeff said."What did you say?" Sanji was a little confused about what was wrong with Zeff.Sanji suppressed the anger in his heart: "I won't argue with you, but don't push your luck, you rotten old man. Putting everything else aside, I will never allow you to belittle my cooking. No matter what you say, I will be a cook here, and you have no say in it."Sanji's voice grew louder and louder as he spoke, finally grabbing Zeff by the collar.Zeff threw Sanji over his shoulder, sending him flying. Coincidentally, Sanji crashed onto everyone's dining table, knocking it over.Luke and Zoro were quick-witted, grabbing the plates the moment Sanji flew towards them. Thankfully, the food wasn't hit."Are you kidding me? No matter how you try to kick me out, I'll always be a cook at this restaurant until you die."Sanji said resolutely, sitting on the ground.Seeing this, Zeff turned and left. Sanji still refused to leave.Luffy came to Sanji's side, looking particularly happy: "It's great that he approved! Now you can be a pirate.""Who wants to be one?!" Sanji said.Since Luffy's chore wasn't finished, everyone had to stay here, waiting for Zeff's approval before they could leave.Luke had actually appraised some jewelry, which was enough to cover the compensation fee, but he didn't take it out.He was waiting for someone: Hawkeye Mihawk.And so, on the fourth day at the sea restaurant Baratie, the situation took a turn.Early that morning, a slight fog hung over the sea, and the outline of a large ship gradually emerged from the mist.Looking at the pirate flag, with an hourglass on either side of the skull, threatening enemies, it was none other than the so-called East Blue overlord, the Krieg Pirates.Customers who were eating saw the Krieg Pirates' flag from the window and screamed in terror.The Krieg Pirates had arrived. Everyone was on high alert. It was clear these guys meant trouble.The enormous main ship of the Krieg Pirates docked next to the Baratie restaurant, towering over it, several times larger than the Baratie."Why are the Krieg Pirates here?"The cooks were also terrified. They had dealt with many pirates before, but they were all nobodies. They had never provoked such a large pirate crew."Are you kidding me? That's the leader of a pirate fleet with 5,000 men!" The cook Patty exclaimed in shock."This is bad! We should run!" Usopp shouted.Nami also wanted to slip away: "How is that ship so big?!"Luffy's mind was quite simple when he saw the ship."What a huge ship! Is that Gin coming to repay you?" Luffy said."I don't think so." Luke casually took an Enhancement Pill.In these four days at the restaurant, he had appraised several Enhancement Pills. His Doriki was now two thousand, only two hundred Doriki short of CP9's Kaku.Such Doriki was already considered very strong in the East Blue.Although Krieg's pirate ship was huge, it looked dilapidated, like an old ship in its twilight years.The ship had become like this because it had suffered a baptism in the Grand Line, and now it had fled back to the East Blue in a sorry state.The hull didn't look like it was hit by cannon fire; it looked more like it was cut.It had been cut into this state by the world's greatest swordsman, Hawkeye.Besides Krieg, there were a hundred starving pirates on board. They hadn't eaten or drunk for many days and were all collapsed on the ship from exhaustion.Krieg, supported by Gin, disembarked from the main ship.Then the two came to the restaurant entrance and pushed open the restaurant's main door.Krieg looked very tired."S-sorry, can I have some water and food? I have plenty of money, as much as you want. I don't know how long it's been since I last ate. Please, give me water and food."His voice lacked the expected authority; instead, it was very humble.Don't let his current repentant appearance fool you; it was all an act. Once he was fed and watered, he would revert to his true self.Sanji didn't care who the person opposite him was; as long as he heard someone was hungry, he would cook for them. This was a principle he always upheld as a chef."Don't give him anything to eat," the cook Patty said.The surrounding customers also agreed with Patty. Krieg was usually evil, infamous, and very cunning."If he eats his fill, he'll definitely attack this restaurant. Don't even give him a cup of water," another cook said.The weak Krieg said, "I won't do anything. I'll go back obediently after eating, so please save me."Luke had already started wiping his Thor's Hammer. He had already anticipated what Krieg would be like in a moment.Luke hated one type of person the most: the ungrateful.Soon, Sanji walked out of the kitchen, carrying a large bowl of food and a bucket of soup, and placed them next to Krieg.Just like when he saved Gin, Sanji didn't care about the other person's identity."Thank you!"Seeing such fragrant food, Krieg began to eat ravenously.Bite after bite, the scene looked a little pitiful.Some customers even said, "Looking at him now, he's quite pathetic."Luke smiled slightly. "You'll see in a moment.""The overlord of the East Blue, the cunning Krieg, is this guy! This guy impersonated a Marine, killed his superior, stole a Marine ship, and then took up the name of a pirate. Sometimes he hoists the Marineflag to attack towns or passenger ships, or pretends to wave a white flag to attack enemy ships. He's the kind of guy who would do anything to win, which is how he climbed to his current position!" Another cook, Carne, shouted loudly."What? So he's a scoundrel," Luffy said."It's better for the whole world to let a scumbag like him die."Carne was a sensible person, but unfortunately, it was too late.Krieg put down the soup bowl, then let out a roar, launching a powerful arm strike at Sanji.Sanji, completely unprepared, was sent flying, and the cigarette in his mouth fell to the ground.Just as the cook Carne said, Krieg had revealed his true colors; he didn't recognize anyone after eating his fill.The other customers in the restaurant, seeing this, shouted and fled in a panic."I feel reborn."Krieg stood up, a sarcastic smile on his face.
Chapter 25: Teach You How to Be a Good PersonChapter 25: Teaching You a LessonKrieg's face was ferocious as he looked around the restaurant."This restaurant isn't bad. This ship is mine now. Our ship is in tatters, and we need a new one. Once you're done with your work, you can all get off the ship.""Right now, I still have about 100 subordinates alive on my ship, all starving and severely injured. First, prepare food and water for 100 people and bring it over immediately."Krieg spoke in a very commanding tone."I refuse!" the chef Carne shouted."Refuse? Don't misunderstand, I'm not ordering food, I'm giving you orders! No one is allowed to defy me!"Krieg roared, and most people in the restaurant were intimidated.Luke picked his earwax and walked up to Krieg, holding Thor's Hammer.Not far away, Luffy pulled down his hat, revealing a mysterious smile.From the moment this guy acted like he didn't recognize anyone after eating his fill, Luke couldn't stand it anymore."Who did you just say you were ordering? Say it again."Luke leaned his ear close to Krieg's face and asked.Mainly, this guy was too arrogant. A normal level of arrogance could be tolerated, but daring to call himself 'master'? Luke felt he absolutely had to make him clearly understand who the real master was.It's just a matter of who's more arrogant, so let's see who's crazier.Krieg's mouth curved upwards. He had only been away from the East Blue for a few weeks, and someone dared to challenge him face to face, as if they had forgotten he was the overlord of the East Blue."Hey, I'll give you one more chance. I can pretend I didn't hear what you just said." Krieg stared at Luke.Luke also stared at Krieg: "I'm your master. Do you understand the meaning of that sentence?"Upon hearing this, Krieg's veins bulged. Machine guns appeared on both sides of his shoulders and waist, and he pulled out pistols with both hands."Too slow."Luke swung Thor's Hammer and slammed it heavily into Krieg's chest.Krieg's two-meter-tall body was sent flying onto the deck outside, spitting out a mouthful of blood.Under Krieg's overcoat, a super-strong alloy battlesuit was hidden, with strong defense and many hidden mechanical weapons.For this kind of alloy equipment, blunt weapons were the best, and the most effective was, of course, lightning.Luke twirled Thor's Hammer and walked onto the deck with a playful look.Krieg struggled for a while before slowly getting up."That hammer blow didn't feel good, did it?" Lukeasked.That hammer blow contained 2000 Doriki, and a hammer-shaped dent could clearly be seen on Krieg's alloy armor."Such strong power. Who are you? Why haven't I heard of you in the East Blue?"Krieg asked verbally, but secretly prepared the next wave of weapons, which Luke saw."No name, just an ordinary Appraiser."As Luke finished speaking, he saw Krieg holding a golden shield in his hand.There was a cannon muzzle in the middle of the shield, with a white skull pattern painted on it.If he remembered correctly, this shield could fire "MH5" poison gas bombs, which were very terrifying gas weapons."Luke, beat him up!" Luffy cheered from the side."You'd better be careful, this guy is about to fire gas bombs." Luke warned."What?!" Sanji was shocked. With so many people in the restaurant, using gas bombs would mean everyone was finished."Masks, quickly put on masks!""Hurry up, or we'll be finished too."Hearing that Krieg was about to fire gas bombs, everyone frantically searched for gas masks.Luke remained standing there, unmoved."Are your legs too soft from fear, kid!" Krieg asked with a ferocious expression.Krieg calculated the distance between himself and Luke. He saw Luke holding a large hammer and assumed he was a close-combat fighter. As long as he maintained his distance, he could easily deal with him."I just think your armor is very suitable for my Thor's Hammer." Luke said.Krieg thought Luke envied his armor. And indeed, a magnificent golden alloy battlesuit, paired with that Thor's Hammer, would be quite intimidating.But he didn't understand Luke's other meaning: his armor conducted electricity! Luke didn't even need to deliberately aim; the lightning attack could still strike him, making it very suitable."It's no use envying my armor now. You've already angered me. This is a battle, and victory is the only goal. The winner is king, no matter what means are used, the result is what matters. Whether it's poison gas or anything else, as long as I win, that's what's important. That is strength!"Krieg expounded his philosophy of victory."Are you done talking?" Luke asked.Krieg's pride came to an abrupt halt: "Kid, before I fire the poison gas, let me give you a taste of my spinning cannonballs first."Under Krieg's control, the shield extended again, revealing a circle of muzzles, similar to a Gatling gun, from which thick cannonballs could be fired.Just as Krieg was about to press the trigger, thunder suddenly rumbled in the sky.Krieg looked up, and a thick bolt of lightning struck down from above, accurately hitting his alloy armor."Ooh-hoo~~ It's here, Luke's lightning attack!" Luffy's eyes lit up.Krieg was knocked down once again, black smoke rising from his entire body. His golden armor had turned black, the kind that would be hard to distinguish if thrown into coal."Red-Leg" Zeff, who was watching the battle, was shocked by Luke's ability."He can even summon lightning? What's this kid's background?"Luffy chuckled: "He's the Appraiser on our ship.""Appraiser?" Zeff heard this profession for the first time."He can appraise many interesting things, like pills!"Usopp also helped explain. When he mentioned pills, Usopp looked down at himself; the effects of the pill were still there. After speaking, Usopphurriedly ran to the toilet again.Sanji was also surprised by the powerful combat ability Luke displayed. Initially, when he met Luke, he only thought he was just handsome, with a cynical attitude, tinkering with some inexplicable gadgets. He never expected him to be so strong in combat.Luke came to Krieg's side, kicked the poison gas shield into the sea. This inhumane weapon, he would let it sink into the ocean.Krieg was still struggling to get up.Luke didn't intend to give him another chance. He raised his right foot and brought it down heavily on his head, knocking him out completely.Admiral Krieg, who claimed to be the leader of the strongest pirate crew in the East Blue, was taken down by Luke.Who was the master? The outcome was clear at a glance."Well done!""We won!"The chefs cheered excitedly.Luffy also bumped his fists together, full of fighting spirit.Just then, a man wearing a pot lid crawled out of the water.His body was covered with shields front and back, he held shields in his hands, and wore shields on his knees."Hahahaha, iron wall equals invincibility! Krieg Pirates, 'Iron Wall' Shield Man Mr. Bara, here
Chapter 26 That ManChapter 26: That ManThe turtle-like shield user, Pearl, appeared."Luffy, I'll leave this guy to you, no problem, right?"Luke chose a strategic retreat; he needed to leave some monsters for Luffy to gain experience."Hehe, no problem, leave it to me!"Luffy had wanted to fight earlier and his hands were itching to go. This shield user came at just the right time."I am the Iron Wall Man who has won all 61 past duels without a scratch. I've never shed a single drop of blood in battle. No injuries are proof of strength. I am the Shield Man, and also the Handsome Man."Pearl extended his index finger and shook it, full of confidence.Luke suddenly felt that he shouldn't have fought Krieg; he should have directly faced Pearl and given him a reality check.But since it was already decided, he hoped Luffywould beat him badly.Then, Pearl's peripheral vision caught sight of the fallen Captain Krieg."Captain Krieg was defeated?!" Pearl exclaimed in surprise.Good heavens, the village just got 2G internet.This was not Pearl's fault; he had accidentally fallen into the sea due to weakness and had just climbed ashore after swimming for a while, so he didn't know Krieg had been defeated.Pearl swallowed, sensing something was amiss. He knew Captain Krieg's strength very well; if he had failed, Pearl's own chances of winning were obvious."This isn't fair, I'm very hungry right now."Pearl's tone shifted, losing his earlier handsomeness. He turned to return to the pirate ship, deciding not to fight."Sanji, make him a bowl of rice!" Luffy didn't want to miss a rare chance to fight."Don't order me around!"Sanji yelled at Luffy, then walked into the kitchen with a cigarette in his mouth. He said no, but his body was very honest.Now Pearl was a bit awkward; there was no longer any reason to escape, and besides, he was also very hungry.Soon after, Sanji brought out a large plate of seafood fried rice and handed it to Pearl, who ate it with great relish."I, Pearl, am revived!" Pearl exclaimed, pointing to the sky with both hands after finishing his meal."Then fight me! Gum-Gum Rocket!"Luffy immediately activated his battle mode upon hearing this."Hey, wait!"Before Pearl could finish speaking, Luffy's Gum-Gum Rocket smashed into his shield.He was sent flying over ten meters, shield and all, by the Gum-Gum Rocket, and then plunged back into the water.Luffy scratched his head: "What, he's so weak!"Luffy's rubber arm shocked the cooks and Sanji.Most of them were seeing a Devil Fruit user for the first time.Sanji had a new understanding of the Straw Hat Pirates; they were all hidden dragons and crouching tigers, not as simple as they seemed.After waiting for a while, Pearl did not resurface.It turned out that he had swum directly back to their pirate ship underwater out of fear.On the main ship of Krieg's fleet, everyone saw Pearl's haggard figure.Pearl ordered his weak subordinates: "Turn the ship around, leave here!"There were very few people on board with any strength left; everyone was starving, and only a few followed Pearl's instructions."That sly guy, he actually ran away!" Luffy said."Don't worry, he can't escape. That man is here."Luke pointed to a strange small boat slowly approaching from not far away.A man sat in the center of the boat, with eerie green flame candles burning on both sides, and the Supreme Grade sword, Black Blade Yoru, on his back.The world's greatest swordsman, Hawkeye Mihawk, had arrived.Hawkeye had been pursuing the Krieg Pirates from the Grand Line, purely for amusement.He moved, drawing and sheathing his sword, unleashing two slashes in an instant.With just his sword energy, he sliced two huge cracks into the main ship of the Krieg Pirates, causing the massive vessel to split into three sections in an instant.Accompanied by a thunderous roar, the ship disintegrated and was swallowed by the sea, creating huge waves."The main ship, it's cut in half!" a pirate on board shouted.Pearl was also greatly shocked: "Cut in half, you say cut in half, this huge battleship? How could such an absurd thing be possible!"Amidst wails and unwillingness, the Iron Wall Man Pearl sank into the surging waves of the sea along with the main ship.Zeff immediately ordered the cooks to drop anchor to prevent the sea restaurant from being overwhelmed by the waves.Luke also immediately looked for the going merrybut couldn't find any trace of it.Could it be that Nami had sailed the ship away?Sure enough, several kilometers out at sea, Lukesaw the Going Merry.Busy with the battle, he had almost forgotten about it.Nami had sailed the Going Merry to her hometown, Cocoyasi Village.At this moment, Johnny and Yosaku appeared. They were supposed to be guarding the Going Merry."Where's the ship? The ship's gone!" Luffy asked them."I'm sorry, Big Bro, Big Sis Nami, she... she took all the treasure and sailed away," Yosaku said."What did you say!"Usopp, Luffy, and Zoro were dumbfounded, their eyes nearly popping out in shock, and their mouths forming an 'O' shape.The Going Merry was everyone's only ride, and it was a gift from Usopp's close friend, Kaya, making its preciousness self-evident.Before they could ask more about Nami, Hawkeye's small boat emerged from the waves, getting closer and closer to them.Zoro stared intently at Hawkeye; this was the man he wanted to surpass.Zoro's whole body trembled: "Could it be, that's him!""Who's that guy?" Luffy asked.Zoro swallowed: "He's the one I've been looking for, Hawkeye Mihawk, the world's strongest swordsman."Luffy's expression became serious, and he silently repeated "Hawkeye Mihawk."Chef Patty said: "Is that the man who, by himself, sank 50 of Krieg's ships that were heading to the Grand Line?"Chef Carne said: "Then he's also the one who just destroyed Krieg's ship."Zeff said: "He is the Great Swordsman Hawkeye, the man who stands at the pinnacle of all swordsmen worldwide."At this moment, Zoro had already decided to challenge Hawkeye.A survivor of the Krieg Pirates shouted at Hawkeye: "You, you bastard! What grudge do we have with you that you attack us like this?"Hawkeye said calmly: "Just passing the time.""Don't joke around!"The pirate raised his two guns and pulled the triggers.Hawkeye drew his Black Blade Yoru and, with a light touch of the blade, deflected the two incoming bullets. He didn't even use his eyes, relying purely on perception."What! I aimed perfectly!" The pirate was shocked.Zoro pushed him aside and said: "He subtly changed the bullets' trajectories with his blade."After Zoro spoke, he walked directly towards Hawkeye."I've never seen such a soft sword," Zoro said to Hawkeye.Hawkeye glanced at Zoro: "A sword with only strength has no true power.""Was this ship also cut by that sword?""Precisely.""I see, as expected, he is the strongest."Zoro looked at Hawkeye, his heart yearning to fight him.
Chapter 27 Crazy, all crazyChapter 27: Crazy, Everyone's Crazy"I set sail to meet you," Zoro said, touching his shoulder.Hawkeye asked indifferently, "What is your goal?""The strongest!"Zoro put on his green bandana; he always wears it when facing powerful foes.Hawkeye gave a devilish smile, not expecting such an arrogant young man."How foolish."Zoro drew his long sword: "You seem to have a lot of free time, let's have a match!""A match? Pitiful weakling."Hawkeye vanished from the ship in a flash, appearing before Zoro.With his arms crossed, Hawkeye said, "If you truly are a first-rate swordsman, even without clashing, you should be able to see the gap between us. To dare draw your sword against me, should I call it courage or ignorance?""It's because of my ambition, and a promise with a dear friend."Zoro bit his sword, assuming the Three-Sword Style battle stance.To everyone's surprise, Hawkeye took a cross pendant from his neck, gently pulled it open, revealing a sharp small knife inside.Hawkeye believed Zoro was too weak, and there was no need for him to use Black Blade Yoru for the fight.To Zoro, this was blatant mockery."Hey, what do you mean by this?""I am not like a foolish beast that uses all its strength to hunt a rabbit. Although you are a somewhat famous swordsman, this is, after all, the East Blue, the weakest of the four seas. Unfortunately, I don't have a smaller knife than this."Hawkeye held the small knife, looking regretful.Zoro was naturally furious: "There's a limit to looking down on people! Don't regret it after you die!"Zoro launched the first attack."You frog in a well, come and see how big the world is!" Hawkeye didn't take Zoro seriously."Onigiri!"Zoro unleashed his signature skill, a move that had always been effective.However, in the next moment, Zoro's three swords were all parried at a single point by Hawkeye's small knife.No matter how much force Zoro applied, he couldn't budge the small knife an inch.Everyone watching was shocked. This was the power of the World's Strongest Swordsman, effortlessly blocking Pirate Hunter Zoro's signature move with a small knife."Brother's Onigiri was blocked!""That's a move that, once unleashed, should cut down any enemy one hundred percent!" Yosaku and Johnny exclaimed.Zoro's heart was deeply shaken; for the first time, he truly felt the immense gap in strength, like an insurmountable chasm.Zoro remained unwilling to give up: "The world cannot be this far away!"Zoro roared, wildly slashing his three swords at Hawkeye.However, all these attacks were effortlessly blocked by Hawkeye's small knife.Then, Hawkeye lightly flicked his small knife, sending Zoro flying.Unwilling to admit defeat, Zoro got up and continued to fight Hawkeye.After a few rounds, Hawkeye knocked Zoro flying again with a hand chop.At this moment, Zoro recalled his past times with Kuina, then staggered to his feet again, continuing to fight Hawkeye.Hawkeye was surprised by Zoro's resolve and asked, "What do you carry on your shoulders? What do you desire at the peak of strength, weakling?"Hearing Hawkeye call Zoro a weakling, Johnny and Yosaku drew their swords, intending to charge, but Luffy stopped them.These two guys are reliable; they truly dare to act when things get serious."I absolutely cannot lose!"Zoro once again assumed a battle stance.This time, he unleashed his signature skill, Tiger Hunt.However, Hawkeye's small knife pierced his chest.Hawkeye did not aim for a killing blow, avoiding Zoro's vital points.Zoro still stood there, unyielding."Do you wish to be directly pierced through the heart? Why do you not retreat?" Hawkeye asked."I don't know, I don't know myself. I just feel that if I take even one step back here, all those important vows and promises made until now will disappear, and I will never be able to return here again.""Indeed, that is called defeat.""Then I absolutely cannot retreat.""Not even if it means death?""Death would be better."What a powerful will; rather than defeat, he prefers death."Young man, state your name!""Roronoa Zoro!""I will remember that, a strong one after a long time!"Hawkeye drew his Black Blade Yoru, signifying his acknowledgment of Zoro, deeming him worthy of fighting with Black Blade Yoru."Then, to show proper etiquette as a swordsman, I shall use this strongest black blade in the world to lay you to rest in the sea.""I am truly grateful for that."The two had their final clash, and sword light flashed.Zoro's two swords were directly severed, leaving only wado ichimonji.Hawkeye was completely unharmed.Zoro turned around, spread his arms, and said to Hawkeye, "A wound on the back is a swordsman's disgrace."Hawkeye smiled faintly: "Remarkable!"He then slashed Black Blade Yoru towards Zoro's chest, and instantly, blood gushed from his chest.Although the cut was long and deep, Hawkeye once again avoided the vital points, showing that he admired Zoro."Don't be in such a hurry to die, young man!" Hawkeye murmured."Zoro!!" Luffy screamed, his voice hoarse."Zoro!""Brother!"Sanji was also shocked. What was he fighting for? He couldn't understand what Zoro was holding onto.He recalled Zoro's words in the restaurant: "When I decided to become the strongest swordsman, I had already put life and death out of my mind."Sanji thought Zoro was crazy. The opponent was truly the world's number one, and the outcome was already clear. Rather than dying, it would be better to abandon his ambition."It's simple, just abandon your ambition!"Sanji shouted loudly at the fallen Zoro.Just then, Luke arrived beside Zoro and pulled the fallen Zoro out of the water.He then forced a pill into Zoro's mouth.This pill, named Rapid Recovery Swift Pill, could quickly heal injured bodies and permanently increase physical agility.After placing Zoro on the deck, Luke stood before Hawkeye.Crazy? Are they all crazy? In Sanji's eyes, this Straw Hat Crew was utterly insane.One by one, they charged forward, knowing full well their opponent was the World's Strongest Swordsman. Why were they so desperate?"Are you a companion of that young swordsman? Thank you for watching until the end," Hawkeyesaid to Luke.Hawkeye continued, "Don't worry, that man is still alive.""I know he's alive, but I didn't come to save him."Luke spread his arms, striking the exact same pose as Zoro just moments before."I want to experience the slash of the World's Strongest Swordsman!"Sanji gripped the railing: "Crazy, truly crazy! This time he won't hold back. Don't go to your death!""Your physical abilities are indeed stronger than Zoro's, but the gap between us is no different from his. You should understand what I mean," Hawkeyesaid."I understand, that's why I want to experience the slash of the World's Strongest Swordsman. If I miss this chance, who knows when I'll get another."Luke was not crazy. With the existence of the Coin of Destiny, he could withstand three fatal injuries.Although it would reduce one use of the Coin of Destiny, perceiving the slash and Haki of the World's Strongest Swordsman, such an opportunity to clash with a world-class master was not always available.What Luke most wanted to learn now was Haki. Although he didn't know if he possessed Conqueror's Haki, Armament Haki and Observation Haki were essential. This was Luke's demand of himself.