Chapter 36: Dawn Smiles, Farewell to Cocoyasi VillageChapter 36: Morning Smiles, Farewell to Cocoyasi VillageThe final battle was imminent, and Luffy faced Arlong.Luke went to Zoro and fed him a recovery pill for his injuries.Zoro's gaping wound healed quickly in a short time."Thank you, Luke," Zoro said.Luke waved his hand, indicating it was nothing.Luffy and Arlong's fight started somewhat comically, as if Luffy wasn't taking it seriously.The most outrageous part was that Arlong's teeth could be pulled out at will, and new ones would quickly grow back.Luffy put Arlong's fallen teeth into his own mouth, comparing fangs with Arlong, a unique fighting style that left people dumbfounded.Finally, at the top of Arlong Park's tower, Luffydefeated Arlong, the tyrant of the East Blue, with a Gum-Gum Battle Axe.From Luke's perspective, Luffy didn't exert much effort in the overall battle.In the ruins of the tall tower, Luffy stood up, panting heavily.Luffy shouted, "Nami! You are my comrade!"Luffy's shout made Nami shed tears once again."Yes!" Nami responded.Seeing this, the Straw Hat Pirates all smiled.The villagers had not yet recovered from their shock."Did they win!?""They won.""They won!""Arlong Park is destroyed!"The villagers cheered loudly.Eight years of oppression finally ended at this moment, and the villagers shed tears of excitement.The villagers lifted Luffy, tossing him high into the air, shouting loudly for their hero."Alright everyone, we can't just be happy for ourselves, let's quickly tell everyone on the island this good news!"The villagers eagerly spread the news of the Arlong Pirates' defeat to everyone on the island."Arlong Park has been destroyed!"Nojiko said, "That's great, Nami."A Jian, the guard, said with some emotion, "I never thought we'd be saved by pirates; things really are unpredictable."The six members of the Straw Hat Pirates gathered together, discussing the battle they had just fought.Luffy, Luke, Zoro, Nami, Usopp, and Sanji chatted and laughed with each other.Usopp, in particular, eagerly recounted his thrilling battle with Chu, describing it as extremely dangerous.To celebrate their newfound freedom, the villagers of Cocoyasi Village held a grand celebration.The celebration had all sorts of delicious food, satisfying Luffy the foodie and Zoro's craving for alcohol.Luffy, who had just finished fighting, devoured the food, even swallowing the plates. A stomach that could digest plates was certainly not that of an ordinary person.While everyone was celebrating, Nami went to her mother Belle-Mere's grave. Her eyes were no longer lost but filled with anticipation for the future."Nami, you've made up your mind, haven't you? Then live your life as you wish, just like your mother. Belle-Mere would have wanted that too," A Jiansaid.The sea breeze caressed Nami's face, and her gaze turned towards the distant sea.The celebration lasted until night, and Luke felt a bit stuffed himself.He let out a satisfied burp, found a secluded spot, and sat down to smoke his never-ending, non-choking, calming and soothing cigarette.A cigarette after a meal is better than being an immortal.Sanji walked over and said, "So full, so full. It's nice to just be in charge of eating sometimes. Can you appraise a few more cigarettes for me?""Yes, for a fee," Luke puffed out a smoke ring."Bastard, then you're not allowed to eat the food I cook for you in the future."Man is iron, food is steel; you can skip smoking, but not eating.At Sanji's urging, Luke appraised half a pack of cigarettes for him, one of which was called the 'Vomiting and Diarrhea with Mysterious Tremors Cigarette.' He hoped Sanji would be alright after smoking it.Sanji contentedly took the appraised cigarettes and then went to the celebration to chat with pretty girls.This boisterous celebration lasted for three days.On the morning of the third day, Luke, who was still asleep, was woken up by Sanji."Luke, what's wrong with this cigarette? After smoking it, I had diarrhea for a whole day, and now I still feel like throwing up." Sanji looked pale and very weak."That cigarette is a laxative," Luke said calmly."Go to hell!"Sanji delivered a flying kick.Luke deftly dodged and then quickly ran away.Sanji, who was about to chase Luke, suddenly felt a sharp pain in his stomach and couldn't hold it anymore, rushing to the toilet.Luke also felt that this wasn't good; making an enemy of the cook at sea was playing with his own life.To ensure he could eat in the future, he needed to find an opportunity to apologize to Sanji.Luke came to the toilet door and knocked."Who is it?" Sanji asked weakly."It's me.""You bastard, what kind of cigarette did you make me smoke?""Sorry, Sanji, that cigarette was indeed careless. I have a pill here; take it, and you won't have diarrhea, and your body functions will quickly recover."With that, Luke tossed the pill inside."Ah! Idiot, you threw it in the toilet!" Sanji exclaimed."It's okay, I have more."Luke threw another pill, and this time Sanji caught it."I'll trust you this once."Sanji looked at the pill and finally took it.As the pill went down, a warm sensation spread throughout his body, and he immediately felt much better. The diarrhea symptoms also quickly improved.Soon after, Sanji emerged from the toilet."How are you, feeling better?" Luke asked."Much better." Sanji silently lit an unappraised cigarette."That's good. Here's this photo album for you."Luke took out a photo album of beautiful women on a summer beach and gave it to Sanji.Seeing the photo album, Sanji was overjoyed, and all of Luke's misdeeds vanished like smoke because of this photo album.For these three days, Luffy had been eating non-stop.Usopp, meanwhile, stood on a high platform, using a loudspeaker to proclaim his heroic deeds in battle, drawing continuous applause from the villagers below.Nami was very concerned about the Arlong Piratestattoo on her arm, so she found a doctor to redraw a new design for her.On the morning of the fourth day, the celebration ended, and everyone decided to set sail."Alright, we've got a lot of food, so our preparations are complete," Sanji said.Usopp happily said, "Although we didn't stay long, this is truly an island full of memories.""Yeah!" Luffy showed a silly smile.Sanji suddenly realized a problem: "Where did Miss Nami go?"Zoro said, "Is she not coming?""W-why? Did you provoke Miss Nami again?"Zoro looked speechless: "Why would I do that? Perhaps she'd be happier staying here.""Then what about my happiness? If Miss Namidoesn't come, then I'll be 98.72% meaningless on this ship."Sanji thought Nami wasn't coming, and he became a bit frantic.Just then, Nami appeared on the shore."Hurry and set sail!" Nami shouted.Immediately after, Nami began running quickly towards the Going Merry.Everyone raised the sails and started the Going Merry.A Jian, the guard, suddenly understood why Namiwas doing this."Is this guy really leaving without letting us thank and say goodbye to her?"The Going Merry set sail, and Nami quickly ran through the villagers on the shore."Stop, Nami!""At least let us thank you properly before you go!""Stop, I absolutely won't allow you to say goodbye to us so casually."Nami didn't stop, quickly reaching the shore, leaping high, and jumping onto the deck of the going merry.Nami lifted her clothes, and the villagers' wallets fell out one by one.It was then that the villagers realized all their wallets had been stolen by Nami.Nami turned back and gave a slight smile to the villagers: "Take care, everyone.""How audacious, you little brat!" the villagers exclaimed.Usopp's expression was grave: "This guy hasn't changed at all."Zoro also had a headache: "Who knows when she'll betray us again."Sanji, however, gave Nami a thumbs-up: "Well done, Miss Nami."Luffy burst out laughing."You little cat burglar!""Come back!""Give us back our wallets, you naughty brat!""Come back anytime you want!""Take good care of yourselves!""Thank you all very much!"The shouts of the Cocoyasi Village villagers came from the shore.
Chapter 37 World FamousChapter 37: Famous Throughout the WorldA seagull flew in the blue sky.The seagull landed on the going merry, carrying a newspaper.Nami approached the newspaper-delivering seagull and began to negotiate with it."Did the newspaper price go up again? Isn't what you're selling a bit expensive? If it goes up again next time, I won't buy it!"Nami put 100 Berries into the newspaper-delivering seagull's coin slot, and the seagull, as if understanding Nami's words, flew away with a look of grievance."Why make such a fuss over two newspapers?" Usopp grumbled while making chili ammunition."If we buy it every day, it'll be a huge amount!" Namisaid.Just as the two were talking, Luffy was kicked by Sanji from beside the orange tree.Luffy was kicked directly onto Usopp, and chili powder spilled into Usopp's eyes."Help, I'm on fire! Water!" Usopp ran wildly around the ship, covering his eyes."What's the big deal, just eating one?" Luffy looked aggrieved."No! This is Miss Nami's orange grove, and I will never let you touch it! Miss Nami, my love-guard is foolproof!" Sanji opened his arms and shouted to Nami."Thank you, Sanji," Nami said softly, looking at the newspaper.Zoro grumbled, "Sanji is completely being used by her."A total of two newspapers were bought. Luke took one and lay on a beach chair, reading it.The newspaper contained various world news; riots had broken out in Vera.Just as Luke turned the page, two wanted posters floated out of the newspaper.One was Luffy's wanted poster, and the other was Luke's.Picking up Luffy's wanted poster, it stated a bounty of 30,000,000 Berries, dead or alive.Next to Luffy's large portrait, there was also a silhouette of Usopp.Then came Luke's wanted poster, also stating dead or alive, 20,000,000 Berries.Luke was a bit confused; why was there a wanted poster for him? According to the plot, there should only be Luffy's.Recalling, it was Luffy who ultimately defeated Buggy, Luke who defeated Krieg, and Luffy who defeated Arlong.Luke's bounty should have come from Krieg; Krieg's bounty was 17,000,000, so Luke's bounty was 20,000,000.The wanted poster showed a picture of Lukeholding Thor's Hammer and stepping on Krieg. He didn't know who took it, but it looked quite cool.Everyone was greatly shocked to see the wanted posters.Luffy was very happy with his wanted poster."Hahahaha, we're wanted criminals now! 30,000,000 Berries plus 20,000,000 Berries, how many Berries is that?! Hahahaha!""Idiot, it's 50,000,000 Berries." Nami was impressed by Luffy's math skills.Usopp pointed at his silhouette on the wanted poster and said, "Look, the whole world has seen my heroic stance. Maybe I'll become very popular."Sanji was a bit speechless: "What's so great about just the back of your head?""Don't be sad, when you become a big shot, you'll also be featured," Usopp said.Sanji was greatly encouraged: "Really?"Usopp spread his hands: "Anyway, you should also work hard!"Luffy laughed and said, "Everyone, let's go all out towards the Grand Line!"The only one who couldn't be happy was Nami.Nami covered her face, speechless, and murmured, "You guys still don't understand the seriousness of the situation. This means they are targeting your lives. It seems we can't relax in the East Blueanymore."50,000,000 Berries, this amount will surely prompt action from Marine Headquarters, and they also need to be careful of powerful bounty hunters."Let's go, let's go, let's go, let's go, Grand Line.""Let's go, let's go, let's go, let's go, Grand Line."Luffy, Usopp, and Sanji linked arms and sang loudly.Luke put on his headphones, blocking out the noise from these idiots.Turning around, he saw a Marine warship approaching in the distance.This warship was a bit old and looked familiar.On the deck of the Marine warship, Luke saw former Marine Captain Iron Fist Fullbody, the pink-haired show-off Marine they met at the sea restaurant."Hard a-port, target directly ahead!" Fullbody also saw Luffy and Luke. A bounty of 50,000,000 Berriescould allow him to become a Marine Headquarters Captain again, and even get another promotion.Fullbody stood on the deck, holding the wanted poster, and angrily declared to everyone, "Meeting me here means your luck has run out, Monkey D. Luffy, and Luke, I'm here to arrest you!"Luke pointed at the wanted poster and said, "How about it, am I handsome?"Fullbody said, "See the words on the wanted poster, dead or alive. Aim the turrets at them."Fullbody ordered the Marines to aim their cannons at the Going Merry."What, are you going to fire?" Luffy said.Usopp slowly backed away: "This is bad, they're aiming over here."With Fullbody's command, cannonballs flew out.Zoro drew his sword, and in a flash of lightning, he split the cannonball in half."Don't disturb someone's nap," Zoro said coolly.Fullbody was stubborn: "Let's see how many you can block! Keep firing!"As a result, the next cannonball, due to the cannon being old and poorly maintained, exploded before it could even be fired, blowing up in the barrel."You brats, don't underestimate the power of a former Marine Captain! If that's how it is, then it's hand-to-hand combat! Men, follow me!"Fullbody docked his ship close to the Going Merry, then shouted as he leaped onto the Going Merry's deck."I'll take your head!"By chance, the first enemy Fullbody faced was Luke.Fullbody swung his fist at Luke.Luke picked his nose, then threw out the Demon Binding Rope, tying Fullbody up like a mummy.Fullbody tripped over the rope and fell to the ground. Luke kicked him a few times."Still as useless as ever!" Luke grumbled.Luffy had a foolish expression: "What? Is that it?"Usopp snorted and said proudly, "Completely insignificant."Fullbody finally realized the gap in their strength and lay on the ground, repeatedly shouting, "Mercy, sir! Mercy, sir!"Luke looked at Luffy: "Captain, what should we do with this guy?""Let him go, he's useless anyway," Luffy said.Since Luffy had spoken, Luke retrieved the Demon Binding Rope."Don't let me see you again," Luke said indifferently."Thank you, sir! Thank you, sir!"Fullbody, completely spineless, kowtowed twice with a resounding thud, then scampered back to his warship and quickly fled with his subordinates.Nami sat in the beach chair and grumbled, "I told you guys, you're so loud! Seriously, I can't even concentrate on reading the newspaper.""Miss Nami, dinner is ready!" Sanji shouted."I'm so hungry! Let's eat, let's eat!"As soon as they heard dinner was ready, everyone immediately rushed to the kitchen.
endsChapter 38 The Town of Beginning and EndingChapter 38: The Town of the Beginning and the EndAfter dinner, everyone began discussing matters concerning the Grand Line."We can only enter the Grand Line from Reverse Mountain," Nami stated."Can't we just cross the sea directly?" Zoro offered his opinion."That's the Calm Belt, where ships can barely move, and there are countless Sea Kings," Luke explained."More importantly, let's go to that island first to buy some meat!" Luffy exclaimed.Nami pointed to Loguetown on the map, also known as the Town of the Beginning and the End.Loguetown was the town where Pirate King Gol D. Roger was born, and also where he ultimately died.Several days later, the group arrived at Loguetown.Upon reaching Loguetown, Luke's first impression was its sheer size—the largest town he had seen so far—and his second impression was its bustling atmosphere."This used to be a town where pirates aiming for the Grand Line gathered; you can buy anything you need here," Nami said.Usopp declared, "Alright, for the grand adventure that's about to begin, I'm going to gather some equipment."Sanji decided to look for ingredients and flirt with some beautiful women along the way.Zoro planned to buy a sword, Nami went to a shop for clothes, and Luffy wanted to see Pirate King Roger's execution platform."I want to see the place where the Pirate King was executed."Luffy dashed off, disappearing from sight, without even confirming a meeting point—that's how spontaneous he was.Luke intended to stroll around Loguetown, buy some Devil Fruit, and pick up some interesting trinkets to take back for appraisal.Walking down the streets of Loguetown, the lively chatter on both sides and the diverse array of beautiful women were exhilarating.Luke calmed himself, wondering if he had been influenced by Sanji; he found himself losing control at the sight of beautiful women.Suddenly, a figure in the crowd shocked Luke.Tall, with long black hair, a delicate face and skin, a sexy navel, and a white dome hat—she was an undeniable beauty."Isn't that Alvida!" Luke exclaimed.The fat Alvida, after eating the Sube Sube no Mi, had transformed from a short, plump, and plain woman into a tall, elegant beauty; he almost didn't recognize her.If he hadn't seen Alvida's appearance before, Lukemight have even felt a stir in his heart.Now, her former appearance flashed in his mind, making it hard to stomach."I've been looking for you for a long time, Luke. Long time no see."Alvida said, holding her iron mace."You haven't forgotten my face, have you?" Alvidaasked with a subtly seductive tone."She's so beautiful!""So pretty! Absolutely a peerless beauty!""Her skin looks incredibly smooth."The surrounding men and women were captivated by Alvida's beauty, their eyes turning into heart shapes.Luke remained unperturbed; it was hard to get excited when his mind was filled with Alvida's former appearance. First impressions truly matter.Alvida said, "I could never forget, because you were the first man to hit me!"Luke gasped, this woman's preference for the first man to hit her was quite unusual."Your powerful hammer, striking my body back then, felt so good!" Alvida caressed her stomach, uttering embarrassing words.Luke unconsciously took a few steps back. What was wrong with this woman?Alvida continued, "I ask you all, what is the most beautiful thing on this sea?"The surrounding onlookers pointed at Alvida and loudly declared, "That would be you."The beautiful Alvida received validation for her appearance from those around her, but being able to say that was also a result of her previous insecurity.While one's appearance can change, the inner self doesn't transform as quickly."Yes, that's me. No man in this world can resist my beauty, and I like strong men. I want you to be my man, Luke."Luke swallowed hard. This was bad; he had been targeted by this fat woman.If he hadn't seen her former appearance, Luke might have entertained some wicked thoughts and taken this seductress, but now, Luke had no strong inclinations."Don't look for me, Luffy is stronger than me, go find him!" Luke said, backing away."Hmph, I changed after eating a Devil Fruit, and that's the Sube Sube no Mi!"As Alvida spoke, she tore off her outer coat, revealing her chest, clad only in a bra, showcasing her smooth, firm skin.Some men in the crowd were already having nosebleeds."No matter what kind of attack, it will just slide off my skin and not harm it in the slightest. The regrettable thing is that my beauty hasn't changed much; if there's a significant change, it's that my freckles are gone.""She's really confident about her appearance," Lukemuttered."After my rebirth, I teamed up with them to find you, my equal target."Alvida pointed to several people in cloaks and capes behind her.With a booming laugh, Buggy threw off his cloak and appeared before Luke."Here I am, making my grand entrance!" Buggyannounced with a flourish, looking dashing."Tell me where Luffy is! I'm going to kill him!" Buggydemanded, pointing at Luke.Luke pointed towards the execution platform: "He went to the execution platform.""Wait for me, I'll come for you after I take care of Luffy!" Buggy declared before running off.Buggy's target was Luffy; ever since Luffy sent him flying, he had been fueled by a desire for revenge, enduring countless hardships to arrive here.Buggy was gone, but Alvida remained.Alvida approached Luke with a seductive gait.Luke tried to touch Alvida's skin; it was indeed very smooth and soft, his hand sliding right off."Well, isn't my skin very smooth and soft?" Alvidaasked."It's certainly very smooth and soft, but I have other things to do. Bye-bye!"Still, no. Although she was very striking now, she wasn't Luke's type."Wait, Luke!"Alvida tried to chase Luke, but she tripped over the Demon Binding Rope Luke had thrown."I will definitely make you my man!" Alvida shouted, lying on the ground.Luke ran, almost throwing up.What was this mess? Being targeted by Alvida was a real pain.Just then, Luke spotted a general store and immediately ducked inside, leaning against the door, panting heavily.The shop owner, seeing someone enter, enthusiastically said, "Welcome! All the items in our shop were used by pirates who returned alive from the Grand Line. They are all very precious items."Luke looked around the shop; it had everything: toy guns, panda dolls, kitchen knives."How about this? This is the gun that Gol D. Rogerhimself used!"The owner took out a blue toy gun, trying to con him.
Chapter 39 Diamond-studded SwordChapter 39: Diamond-Encrusted GreatswordLuke decided to play a trick on the unscrupulous merchant who tried to fool him with a toy gun."How much is this gun worth?" Luke asked.The boss held up a finger: "Ten thousand Berries. This is a special price, only one available. Miss it and it's gone."Luke took out ten thousand Berries and tossed them to the boss.The boss beamed with joy after getting the gold coins, thinking to himself, another fool has been tricked.Luke took the toy gun, appraised it, and it transformed into a 24K pure gold pistol."Wow, wow, it turns out to be a pure gold pistol."Luke swung the gun around in his hand, almost blinding the boss."Wait, take these ten thousand Berries back, and give me the gun!" the boss suddenly said."Are you kidding me? You want to take back something you've sold? Who was just beaming with joy holding the gold coins, telling me to take good care of the gun?" Luke said.The unscrupulous merchant was stumped and felt terrible. Why did an ordinary gun turn into a pure gold pistol in his hands? The unscrupulous merchant was utterly bewildered.In short, the unscrupulous merchant's current feeling was two words: a huge loss. The ten thousand Berries in his hand no longer felt good."And that sword, was it Roger's sword?"Luke pointed to an ordinary sword and asked.The unscrupulous merchant rubbed his hands and nodded vigorously: "Yes, it's Roger's treasured sword. If you want it, I'll sell it to you for ten thousand Berries.""Alright!"Currently in Loguetown, an ordinary sword costs fifty thousand Berries. This unscrupulous merchant's sword was rusty, and he still dared to claim it was Roger's. Such a sword could only be sold as scrap metal on the market.He held the scrap sword in his hand for appraisal, and it transformed into a diamond-encrusted greatsword.The sparkling diamonds almost made the unscrupulous merchant's heart bleed from pain."Please, I won't sell this sword, okay?" the unscrupulous merchant pleaded, hugging Luke's leg."What are you talking about? This is my sword now," Luke said leisurely, blowing out a smoke ring.Let you trick people, let you also experience the feeling of a huge loss."I'm not selling it! Diamonds, those are all diamonds!" The unscrupulous merchant was almost in tears."I see them, dazzling diamonds. Didn't you see them just now? It's mine now. What does whether you sell it or not have to do with me? Goodbye!"With that, Luke carried the diamond greatsword out of the general store.A huge profit. Two thousand Berries for a pure gold pistol and a diamond-encrusted greatsword. Luck was overflowing.The general store owner knelt at the entrance, two lines of hot tears streaming down his face.Luke walked down the street carrying the diamond greatsword, attracting everyone's attention.Especially the pirates hidden in the town, who all had designs on Luke's treasured sword."Stop, leave the sword!"Five fierce-looking strong men surrounded Luke.Luke plunged the sword into the ground, and the sparkling diamonds made the robbers' eyes reveal greed.It wasn't Luke showing off his wealth; it was just that his storage ring was full.Before, in Arlong Park, he had loaded a large number of items. Luke was walking and checking, trying to decide which unnecessary items to discard so he could put the diamond greatsword in.He hadn't decided what to throw away yet when these guys appeared. Sure enough, wealth should not be flaunted."If you want it, come and get it yourself!" Luke said domineeringly, holding the "Never-Extinguishing, Non-Throat-Clogging, Calming and Soothing Cigarette" in his mouth."Hehehehe, brothers, let's go!"The five robbers attacked simultaneously.Just as Luke was about to make a move, in a flash of lightning, a beautiful figure rushed out.Accompanied by a flash of cold light, all five robbers were struck down.Drawing and sheathing the sword in one fluid motion, the newcomer was none other than MarineMaster Sergeant Tashigi.Tashigi said angrily: "This is my jurisdiction; no robberies are allowed!"Luke put his hammer back, and while he was at it, he threw away a few useless items and put the diamond greatsword into his storage ring."Thank you, beautiful lady!" Luke said, cupping his fists.Tashigi said with a smile: "I am a Marine; upholding justice is my duty. If you have any difficulties, you can contact the Marine at any time.""Okay, Tashigi.""Hmm, no problem. Wait, how do you know my name is Tashigi?"Tashigi's surprised expression was very cute."Yes, how do I know your name is Tashigi? That's because..." Luke cleared his throat: "That's because you and Captain Smoker are very famous."Tashigi showed a relieved expression: "Loguetown's peace is all thanks to Captain Smoker. Well, that's it then; I have other things to do. Goodbye!"Tashigi waved her hand and then left.Looking at Tashigi's retreating figure, Luke sighed, thinking, "As expected of Tashigi, her chest is really big."Oh no, he'd been infected by Sanji. Luke shook his head and walked towards the clothing store.In the clothing store, Nami was trying on various styles of clothes."Luke, you're here. Do I look good in this?"Nami asked, wearing a high-slit cheongsam.Luke gave a thumbs up: "Awesome!"Hearing Luke's praise, Nami was very happy, then went to the fitting room and changed into a leather mini-skirt and a furry jacket.Luke still gave a thumbs up, feeling that with a good figure, any clothes looked great.She changed more than a dozen outfits in a row. Luke's eyes were blurred; he was experiencing aesthetic fatigue.The key was that every time Nami changed clothes, she looked at Luke with expectant eyes, and Lukefelt too awkward to leave.Compared to Nami, the store owner looked at Namiwith even more expectant eyes: "Are you planning to buy them all?"Piles of tried-on clothes were stacked in front of the owner.Nami said playfully: "I don't want any of them. I want to buy more casual clothes."Then she took Luke's hand and left the clothing store."Not buying?" Luke asked."The clothes in this store are too expensive," Namistuck out her tongue."It's fine, I have money!"Luke pried a dazzling diamond from the diamond greatsword in his storage ring and handed it to Nami.Nami saw the diamond and immediately snatched it, her eyes turning into money symbols."It's a genuine diamond! Are you really giving it to me, our cute, sunny, and handsome Appraiser, Mr. Luke?"Nami's tone was slightly coquettish, but Luke wasn't falling for it. Nami had used this trick to fool countless unfortunate pirates."Take it. Go buy whatever you want."Luke waved his hand, signaling Nami not to use such tricks anymore."Okay, my dear Ap-prai-ser."Nami suddenly kissed Luke's cheek, then happily went shopping with the diamond.Luke was slightly shocked, touching the spot where he had just been kissed. It was indeed a bit exciting.He was kissed by Nami. It was a pity Sanji didn't see this scene; it would definitely drive the cook mad with jealousy. What a shame.Next, Luke arrived at the bustling market.A cooking competition was being held there, and he seemed to see Sanji's figure.
Chapter 40 The Man Smiling at the Execution PlatformChapter 40: The Man Who Smiled at the Execution Platform"Alright, the day is finally here! The annual festival, the cooking competition, where chefs from the East Blue gather."The cooking competition was bustling with activity, and the host enthusiastically introduced it with a microphone."This year's prize is the Elephant Tuna, a treasure of the ocean, a miraculous ingredient! Who will be the one to win the Elephant Tuna and claim the title of East Blue's top chef?""Ahahaha, that'll be me, of course! Good thing you didn't run, Sanji. The title of East Blue's number one belongs to me!" a female chef named Carmen said."Miss Carmen, to be able to... it's truly moving!"Sanji grabbed Miss Carmen's hand, about to kiss it, but was promptly sent flying by Carmen's frying pan.Among the audience, Luke also spotted Usopp and Nami. The three of them stood together, watching the cooking competition.The cooking competition quickly began, and the process was a bit long.Sanji and Carmen fought their way through, reaching the final decisive round.In the end, Sanji, with his superb culinary skills, defeated Carmen, winning the title of East Blue's top chef and claiming the precious prize, the Elephant Tuna.The audience cheered for their wonderful performance.Carrying the Elephant Tuna, the group prepared to return to the Going Merry to store their purchased items.Nami looked up at the sky and suddenly said, "The air feels different. It's going to rain."Luke looked up at the sky, which was perfectly clear. Luke knew that Luffy's father was probably coming soon."The atmospheric pressure is dropping very unusually. I've never seen such a strange drop before," Nami said.The sky suddenly changed from clear to overcast, and the wind also became very strange.Nami said, "A storm is coming. It's heading for this island. It'll be bad if we don't get back to the ship quickly."Just then, Zoro appeared before them.Zoro scratched his head and said, "Have you guys seen Luffy? I got separated from him, and I feel a strange aura, like something incredible is about to happen."No sooner had Zoro finished speaking than the public started shouting."Pirates!""Pirates! Run!""Buggy the Clown!"It seemed Luffy was already at the execution platform, trapped by Buggy.Luke silently walked towards the execution platform. Nami and the others, seeing this, immediately followed.Just as Nami was about to ask Luke why he was heading that way, a citizen shouted, "The execution has begun! Buggy the Clown is going to execute Straw Hat Luffy!""Luffy is being executed?" Usopp looked shocked.Nami said exasperatedly, "That idiot."Everyone immediately ran quickly towards the execution platform.By the time they arrived at the plaza's execution platform, the sky was already covered in dark clouds, and strong winds were raging.Buggy stood on the execution platform, laughing maniacally: "Criminal, Monkey D. Luffy, for the crime of daring to provoke me, you shall be gloriously executed here! Make as much noise as you want!"Luffy, in shackles, was pressed onto the execution platform, his expression very calm, not at all worried about his predicament.Luffy said foolishly, "This is my first time seeing an execution."Buggy pointed at Luffy and said, "You're the one being executed!"Luffy's eyes nearly popped out: "What?! You're kidding!""You're the one kidding! The glorious public execution is about to commence!"Buggy and Luffy started arguing on the execution platform.Luffy panicked: "Stop it! No! Yadah!!!"After struggling for a while, Luffy realized he couldn't break free from the shackles and said weakly, "I'm sorry, I won't do it again. Please save me."Buggy, holding a large saber, said, "Why would I save you, you idiot! Do you have any last words? So many people came to watch! Never mind, whether you have anything to say or not, you're going to die anyway."Luffy suddenly clenched his fists and shouted loudly, "I am the man who will become the Pirate King!"His voice echoed throughout the entire plaza.At this moment, Luke, Zoro, and Sanji also arrived."What kind of bear-like state is that?!" Luke asked, pointing at Luffy.Zoro put on his green bandana and said, "There's a limit to joking, Luffy!"Sanji, with a cigarette in his mouth, said, "If it's an after-party, I'll join in too."The three of them had a simple goal: to destroy the execution platform.However, there were quite a few members of the Buggy Pirates and the Alvida Pirates below the execution platform.Alvida waved her hand: "Get rid of them!"The pirates swarmed forward.Although these henchmen were no match for the trio, they bought them some time."Ya hahaha!"Buggy, holding his large saber, laughed maniacally on the execution platform, then swung it down towards Luffy's neck."Luke, Zoro, Sanji, Usopp, Nami!" Luffy shouted from the execution platform.Luffy showed his white teeth: "Sorry, I'm going to die."In his final moments, Luffy smiled.The only one in the Straw Hat Crew who wasn't nervous was Luke, because he knew Luffy's father would save Luffy.Sure enough, just as the saber was about to strike Luffy's neck, a bolt of lightning split from the dark clouds, striking Buggy directly.This man, who would later become one of the Four Emperors, was electrocuted and smoking, collapsing to the ground in convulsions.Luke also couldn't understand why this foolish Buggy would become one of the Four Emperors. Could it be that he awakened Haoshoku luck?Everyone present, seeing this scene, regarded it as a miracle.A man destined to die received divine protection, surviving like a chosen one.Among them was one person who was completely won over by Luffy: Bartolomeo, the Straw Hat fan who uses the Barrier-Barrier Fruit.The fierce lightning not only knocked down Buggybut also shattered the wooden execution platform, which collapsed with a crash.Immediately, heavy rain began to fall.Luffy's Straw Hat spun in the air, completing a circle, then landed in front of Luffy.Luffy picked up his Straw Hat and laughed happily, "I'm still alive after all! What a bonus!"Sanji's cigarette fell from his mouth in shock: "Do you believe in God?" Sanji looked at Luke.Luke nodded: "I do."Zoro said, "Let's get out of here quickly. It seems there's going to be another commotion."The commotion Zoro was referring to was the Marines surrounding them.Marine Colonel Smoker, observing the situation in the plaza from a short distance away, shouted, "Go! Surround all pirates!"At Smoker's command, Marines rushed out from all sides of the plaza, encircling the pirates in the center.The pirates and Marines engaged in a fierce battle, a spectacular sight.Sanji said, "If we don't get back to the ship quickly, we'll never leave this island."The group then chose a breakthrough point and began to break out."The Straw Hat Crew is running!""Catch them!"The Marines immediately surrounded them.Luke threw his spinning hammer, knocking away the approaching Marines.Luffy used his Gum-Gum Gatling, sending over a dozen Marines flying.
Chapter 41 Nothing can stop a man from sailingChapter 41: Nothing Can Stop a Man from Sailing FarEveryone was running in the pouring rain when Tashigi suddenly appeared at a crossroads.Tashigi said with a grim expression, "I didn't expect you to be Roronoa Zoro, and a pirate at that. You deceived me!"Tashigi raised her head and questioned loudly.Everyone stopped. Sanji shouted at Zoro, "What did you do to that lady?"Zoro stepped forward and said, "It's just that you didn't ask my name; I didn't deceive you.""I will never allow a villain like you to carry that famous sword. I'm taking back the famous sword, wado ichimonji," Tashigi said.Currently, Zoro had three swords: Kuina's wado ichimonji, and the other two, Sandai Kitetsu and the gifted Yukihira, which he had just bought from the Loguetown weapons shop.Zoro grinned, "Then try it."Zoro and Tashigi engaged in a duel between swordsmen.Tashigi's swordsmanship was good, but she was no match for Zoro.Zoro used his two-sword style and easily defeated Tashigi."I can't give you this sword no matter what. Goodbye, I still have to hurry."Zoro sheathed his sword and turned to leave.Tashigi was very angry and asked Zoro why he didn't finish her off, leading to another argument between the two.Accompanied by the roar of a motorcycle, MarineCaptain Smoker, who was stationed in Loguetown, rode his motorcycle and blocked their path."Here they are, Straw Hat Luffy, Thor's HammerLuke," Smoker said calmly, puffing on two cigars.From the moment Smoker appeared, Luke was drawn to his motorcycle.Wide tires, Harley-style handlebars, and a roaring engine—it was every man's dream motorcycle.Then Luke shifted his attention to Smoker. The man was covered in cigars, smoking two at a time, with smoke swirling around him.By the way, when did he become Thor's Hammer? Who gave him that nickname? It was too lame."If you don't defeat me, you won't be able to enter the Grand Line," Smoker said with sharp eyes."Luke, Sanji, you two go first! I'll be right there!" Luffy thought he could defeat Smoker.Nami and Usopp had already broken through via another safe path.Smoker said, "That's hard to say. I'm afraid this is as far as you go."The battle between Luffy and Smoker was about to begin. Luke chose to watch from the side.Soon, Luffy's father, Monkey D. Dragon, would appear, and Luke wanted to witness the face of the world's most dangerous criminal, the leader of the Revolutionary Army, with his own eyes."I'm going to defeat you and then go to the Grand Line. I'm the man who will become the Pirate King!" Luffy said."Enough with the nonsense."Smoker's fists turned into smoke, enveloping Luffy's entire body.Immediately, the smoke wrapped around Luffy. Luffy, confused by the situation, was bewildered and lifted into the air by Smoker's smoke."I ate the Smoke-Smoke Fruit. My body can freely turn into smoke."With that, Smoker slammed Luffy to the ground."What's wrong? Are you already giving up?"Luffy was very indignant: "Gum-Gum Gatling!"Consecutive punches landed on Smoker's body but were dodged by his elementalized form, as if hitting a cloud of smoke, causing no damage whatsoever."White Out!"Immediately after, Smoker's smoke-transformed punch hit Luffy, trapping him against a wall."Do you understand? You can't even enter the Grand Line. Didn't I tell you!"Smoker grabbed Luffy's head and then slammed it hard onto the ground."A 30,000,000 Berries bounty criminal, huh? Hmph, your time is up!""Did you forget about me?"Luke came before Smoker and grabbed his arm.Smoker looked at Luke in surprise: "Thor's HammerLuke, bounty 20,000,000 Berries. Your Captain can't even beat me, you might as well surrender!"Luke smiled slightly, raised his right fist, and struck at Smoker.Smoker used his previous move, elementalization, turning his body into smoke.He originally thought this move would easily evade Luke's attack, but Smoker miscalculated. He was severely hit by Luke's punch, which was imbued with Armament Haki, and his entire body flew out, crashing into the wall."How was that punch, Captain Smoker?" Lukerubbed his nose.Smoker wiped the blood from the corner of his mouth: "Armament Haki? Is the bounty wrong?"Saying that, Smoker was about to draw his weapon.Just then, a man in a green cloak appeared, carrying an incredibly powerful aura.The leader of the Revolutionary Army, Luffy's father, Monkey D. Dragon, grabbed Smoker's weapon with his hand.Dragon's voice was slightly deep: "Stop.""Who are you?"A flash of lightning illuminated Dragon's face, revealing a red tattoo on his left cheek.Smoker recognized him at a glance: "The Marines have always wanted your head!""The world awaits our answer."After Dragon finished speaking, a strong hurricane swept through Loguetown, engulfing every street.Both Luffy and Smoker were blown away by this hurricane.Luke plunged Thor's Hammer into the ground, barely holding on and not being swept away by the strong wind.Presumably, Dragon's Devil Fruit was either the Wind-Wind Fruit or the Storm-Storm Fruit.Dragon looked at Luke with curiosity, and Luke also looked at Dragon, their eyes meeting without fear."Good eyes. You are Luffy's companion, aren't you?" Dragon asked."Yes.""I'll leave Luffy in your care. When you all become stronger, we will meet again. There's no reason that can stop a man from setting sail. Go, young man!"Immediately after, an even more violent hurricane blew, sweeping away Luke's Thor's Hammer, which was stuck in the ground, and Luke's body.Fortunately, the wind blew in the direction of the Going Merry, saving Luke the trouble of running."Wait, I want that motorcycle!" Luke shouted, pointing at Smoker's motorcycle.Dragon understood, and a gust of wind picked up, throwing Smoker's motorcycle towards Luke."Thanks!"Luke made a fist-and-palm salute, then, man and motorcycle, landed precisely on the Going Merry."Wow! What's going on? The deck has a big hole from the motorcycle!" Nami exclaimed."Ah, my Going Merry! Look what you've done, Luke!" Usopp shouted, clutching his head."Calm down, I'll fix it for you in minutes," Luke said."Can you fix ships?" Usopp questioned.Luke shook his head: "No, but I can try.""No, absolutely not! As compensation for damaging the ship, a million Berries isn't too much, is it? I'll take care of the repairs," Usopp said.Anything that could be settled with money wasn't an issue. Luke had plenty of money now, so he directly gave Usopp two million Berries."Hehe, time to fix the ship!" Usopp grabbed a plank and quickly mended the hole.After a while, Luffy, Zoro, and Sanji all successfully boarded the Going Merry.Everyone set sail in the storm."Woohoo, what a cool motorcycle!"At this moment, only Luffy and Luke were on the same wavelength."Cool, right? We'll take turns riding it later," Lukesaid, rubbing his hands."Yay! I want to ride the motorcycle now!" Luffy's eyes sparkled.Nami came up to Luke and Luffy and punched each of them."You two, in such a big storm, still riding a motorcycle? Aren't you afraid of riding into the sea? Hurry up and unfurl the sails!"Luke and Luffy reluctantly unfurled the sails, and the ship, propelled by the wind, sailed towards Reverse Mountain.
Chapter 42 Upside-Down MountainChapter 42 Reverse MountainAfter sailing for two days towards Reverse Mountain, there was still about half the journey left.Luke suddenly remembered a plot point that occurred during this time: the Millennial Dragon.However, despite their journey so far, he still hadn't seen the key character, the little girl Apis.Perhaps his joining the Straw Hat Crew caused a shift in the timeline, leading the Straw Hat Pirates to miss the Millennial Dragon storyline.If they missed it, they missed it. Luke looked at Luffy.At this moment, Luffy was riding a motorcycle in the sea. After Luke's appraisal, the motorcycle had become an amphibious vehicle. The most absurd thing was that after appraisal, the motorcycle's energy source was water; one tank of water could power it for an entire day.In this vast ocean, the one thing they didn't lack was water.Luffy was having a blast, and Usopp was also eager to ride the motorcycle in the sea.Sanji, observing something with his binoculars, exclaimed, "Miss Nami, a report of love! A large area of rain clouds has been spotted ahead."Nami held her navigational chart, carefully confirming their current position.Nami called everyone together and placed the map on the table."I once heard people say that sea charts are drawn this way; the entrance to the Grand Line is on a mountain!" Nami said.Zoro looked confused: "Are we supposed to crash into a mountain?""I also think it's impossible, but the map shows a canal going up the mountain. Maybe we have to follow the canal to climb up," Nami said.Luffy, looking a bit dim-witted, said, "How interesting.""What are you talking about? Whether there's a canal or not, how can a ship climb a mountain?" Zororetorted."But that's how it's drawn on the sea chart.""Exactly! How could Miss Nami be wrong?" Sanjiwas a loyal supporter of Nami.Just then, Usopp shouted, "Hey, hey, who's going to help steer! Luke, come help!"Luke went to Usopp's side and helped him steer.But the rudder was different from usual; it was very stiff and hard to push.Usopp said, "Luke, don't you feel the strong current?"Luke nodded: "Very strong. We must have entered the canal Nami mentioned."Nami pointed at the sea chart and said, "There's a canal drawn here, right? If the great currents from the Four Seas all flow towards this mountain, these four currents will converge into the mountain peak along the canal, and then all flow into the Grand Line.""If we fail to enter the canal successfully, the Going Merry will crash into the Red Line's rock face, the hull will be shattered, and we'll be buried in the sea."Luffy calmly said, "I see. So it's an incredible mountain, hahahahaha."Nami looked helpless: "Anyway, our ship has already caught the current, so as long as we steer well, we should be able to rush straight to the summit of Reverse Mountain.""Miss Nami is amazing!" Sanji's admiration for Namiincreased even further.Zoro shook his head: "I've never heard of a ship climbing a mountain."At this moment, the sky was covered in dark clouds, and heavy rain began to fall.Sanji and Luffy furled the Going Merry's sails.In the distance, everyone saw the Red Line, like a natural chasm blocking the sea.It was also like a giant red beast, spanning east to west, separating north from south, towering into the clouds, stretching endlessly."It's actually so big!" Usopp exclaimed.Luke exhaled a smoke ring: "That's the Red Line."Compared to the Red Line, the Going Merry was like a grain of sand. Those on board couldn't even see the top of the Red Line.Subsequently, the current became even more turbulent, and the Going Merry was sucked in by it.Now, the only thing to do was to steer well, ensuring the ship didn't hit the rock walls while rapidly drifting.Zoro, holding his binoculars, said, "It's truly unbelievable; the seawater is really climbing the mountain."A waterway appeared before everyone, with a large gate beside it. They had to pass through that gate successfully, otherwise the ship would be smashed to pieces."Off course! More to the right!" Luke said."Right rudder, right rudder!"Usopp and Sanji immediately adjusted the direction of the rudder upon hearing this.Unexpectedly, they used too much force, and the rudder broke directly.Everyone was stunned; the rudder was broken.Seeing the ship about to hit the stone gate, Luffyused his Gum-Gum Balloon, cushioning the impact with his body, and then allowed the ship to pass through the gate smoothly.As expected of Luffy, he didn't falter at the critical moment.Luke threw out the Demon Binding Rope, pulling Luffy back from mid-air.Finally, the ship got back on track, climbing towards the summit of Reverse Mountain along the center of the river.Usopp and Sanji were overjoyed, dancing a shoulder-to-shoulder dance.Luke also saw this miraculous sight for the first time: in front of the ship was the current, on both sides were red rock walls, overhead were dark clouds, and the ship's hull was rushing towards the sky. Being able to witness this scenery was worth it.Luke took out a bottle of appraised aged red wine, uncorked it, poured it into a stemmed glass, and took a small sip while gazing at the scenery."Hey, Luke, you're drinking without me!" Zoro, smelling the wine, came over.Luke tossed the wine bottle to Zoro, who took it and chugged the red wine straight from the bottle."Ah ha~~ That's awesome!"Nami waved her clothes and happily said, "Now we just need to rush to the summit in one go!""Whoa~~ We're entering the clouds!" Luffyexclaimed.Suddenly, the surroundings became misty, and the ship had reached halfway up the mountain.This feeling was like an immortal ship undergoing tribulation, sailing towards the mythical Penglai Island.Luke stood on the Going Merry's ram, the strong wind blowing through his shirt, revealing his resolute and handsome face."I want to stand too, I want to stand too!"Luffy squeezed Luke aside, and the two of them stood together on the ram, experiencing the feeling of surfing.After the ship sailed for a while, everyone saw the summit of Reverse Mountain.Due to the splashing water, colorful droplets appeared at the summit.After breaking through the clouds, the sky here was clear and bright with sunshine."Look, it's the summit, the summit!" Nami said.The most miraculous thing was that due to the cold air at the summit, the splashing water droplets quickly formed ice crystals, which then burst.The ship, following the turbulent current, broke through the obstruction at the summit and soared into the clouds.Like a rollercoaster, after climbing upwards, what followed was a violent downward plunge.However, the Going Merry had no such restraints as a rollercoaster; it flew out directly, and then the ship began to plummet rapidly from the summit.Fortunately, the ship didn't fly too high and landed smoothly into the rapidly descending current."Yahoo!"In his excitement, Luke threw Thor's Hammer into the sky to add to the fun.Everyone looked ahead, their eyes resolute. They were finally about to enter the Grand Line, where their individual goals and promised vows would all be realized.Luke took a deep breath. His goal was simple: to stand shoulder to shoulder with the three Admirals and take down the Four Emperors."Ah, Luke, your hammer, it fell into the sea!" Luffyexclaimed.Luke slapped his forehead. Oh no, he got too excited, Thor's Hammer fell into the sea.
Chapter 43: LabChapter 43 LaboonLuke stretched out his right hand, trying to feel Thor's Hammer.No matter how hard he tried, he couldn't sense the presence of Thor's Hammer, nor could he pull it back."My handsome Thor's Hammer!" Luke sighed to the sky."Should we go back and look for it?" Zoro asked."Let's figure out a way to steer the ship back," Namisaid.The Straw Hat Crew knew the importance of that hammer, so they all wanted to help Luke retrieve Thor's Hammer.Luke looked back at the turbulent water, then silently took a puff of his ever-burning, throat-soothing, calming cigarette."How can a man retrace his steps? Forward!"Luke waved his hand dismissively. The hammer was gone; he would just appraise another one.Searching for a hammer in this vast ocean was as difficult as becoming the Pirate King."Yahoo, so cool! The Grand Treasure is somewhere in the ocean ahead! Charge!" Luffy shouted excitedly from atop the sheep's head.Actually, Luke wasn't as carefree as he appeared; his heart ached. The only decent weapon he had was just thrown away by himself."Don't be sad, Luke, I'll give you my slingshot."Usopp walked over to comfort him."It's fine, I'm not cut out to be a sniper. Don't worry, don't forget I'm an Appraiser," Luke said.Just then, a strange cry came from the base of Reverse Mountain.The sound made everyone's ears ache. Luke knew it was Laboon's cry."What is that!" Zoro exclaimed.A giant whale head stood before them, like a towering mountain.Sanji shouted, "That's not a mountain!"Luffy said, "It's a black wall.""No, that's wrong, it's a whale!" Usopp yelled.The giant whale, Laboon, opened its mouth, blocking the ship's path."We're going to crash if we keep going like this! We can pass on the left!" Zoro said.However, with Luffy's idiotic maneuvering, everyone was successfully swallowed by the whale.The Going Merry, following the whale's throat, eventually arrived in its stomach.The scenery inside the whale's stomach was somewhat astonishing.Blue sky, white clouds, and even seagulls.However, they were all static, clearly painted by humans.In the center, there was a small island with a small house on it."What do you think?" Nami looked at Luke."What do you think I should think? Clearly, we've arrived in the whale's stomach." Luke shrugged."Is this a dream?" Usopp's expression was blank."Probably a dream," Zoro said."So what are that island and house?" Nami asked."They're illusions!" Sanji replied.Just then, the water began to churn, and a giant squid broke through the surface."It's a giant squid!" Usopp and Nami turned pale with fright."Wahahaha, what a big squid." Luffy clenched his fists, eager to fight.Just as everyone was preparing to take down the octopus, three harpoons shot from the small island, accurately piercing the giant squid's head, instantly killing it.An old man walked out of the room on the island. This person was Crocus.The former ship doctor of the Roger Pirates, 28 years ago he was invited aboard to treat Gol D. Roger's illness, ensuring he could complete his journey on the Grand Line. He participated in the "Edd War" 25 years ago.The giant sky inside Laboon's body was painted by Crocus.To be the ship doctor on the Roger Pirates' ship, he was certainly no simple fellow.Crocus calmly pulled the giant squid over, then lay silently on a beach chair, picked up a newspaper, and began to read."You old man, at least say something!" Sanji loudly complained."My name is Crocus. I am the lighthouse keeper of Twin Capes, 71 years old, Gemini, AB blood type. You ask me where this is? You've intruded into my private resort, and yet you speak with such arrogance. Do you actually think this is a rat's belly?" Crocus said in a slightly hoarse voice.Usopp said, "We really were eaten by a whale, but is this the whale's stomach?""Wait a minute, what's going to happen to us? I don't want to be digested!" Nami held her head in her hands, unable to believe the reality before her.Crocus pointed to a nearby iron gate and said, "The exit is over there."Only then did everyone notice the iron gate, wondering why there would be a door inside a whale's stomach.Then their suspicions shifted to the sky, clouds, and seagulls, which were all painted.None of that mattered anymore. Everyone rowed towards the iron gate.However, just then, Laboon's body began to shake violently, making it impossible for the ship to move.Along with the violent shaking, two figures flew down from the sky.A man and a woman, the man in green clothes, the woman with blue hair. It was Mr. 9 and Princess Vivi, whose codename was Miss Wednesday."Oh no, Miss Wednesday, below is an ocean of stomach acid!" Mr. 9 exclaimed.Seeing the two about to fall into the water, Lukeused the Demon Binding Rope to pull them onto the ship, but he didn't untie them.Upon seeing a beautiful woman, Sanji immediately knelt before Princess Vivi, his eyes turning into heart shapes."Introduce yourselves," Luke said.Princess Vivi whispered to Mr. 9, "They're pirates!""Mr. 9," Princess Vivi said, "If we explain it to them, it should be fine. Probably."But Crocus was a bit angry, as if he knew the two of them."So you two are still here? Don't make me repeat myself. As long as I have breath in me, I won't let you touch a single hair on Laboon," Crocus said to Princess Vivi and Mr. 9.Princess Vivi let out a chuunibyou-like laugh: "Heh heh heh heh, even if you say that, we can't go back. Killing this whale is our mission.""You won't stop us from whaling today!" Mr. 9 said.The two were tied up, yet their mouths were still so defiant.Luke tightened the rope a little."I can't breathe! Loosen the rope, I can't!" Mr. 9 shouted."Is that how you talk to your benefactor? If it weren't for me, you'd be in the whale's stomach acid right now." Luke tightened the rope again."We were wrong, thank you for saving us, please, loosen this rope," Mr. 9 said, crying profusely."That's more like it." Luke then untied the rope.Mr. 9 and Princess Vivi gasped for air, still wary of the rope in Luke's hand.Suddenly, the two became energetic again, picking up their cannon weapons and aiming them at Laboon's stomach."Watch me blow a big hole in its stomach! Time to fire, baby!" Mr. 9 shouted."Understood!" Princess Vivi also picked up a shoulder-mounted cannon.Luke came before the two and, before they could pull the trigger, punched each of them, knocking them both unconscious."Luke!" Usopp exclaimed."These two were asking for it. Knock them out first, then we'll talk."Luke re-tied them with the Demon Binding Rope. This was the consequence of not cherishing their hard-won freedom.Princess Vivi, who had just appeared, was indeed a bit too foolish.
Chapter 44 Record PointersChapter 44: Log PoseEveryone sat on the central island as Crocusrecounted the story of Laboon, the whale.Because the Grand Line was too dangerous, the Rumbar Pirates decided to leave Laboon at Reverse Mountain before entering the Grand Line, asking Laboon to wait there briefly—"When we circle the world and return, we'll meet again." So, little Laboon, with tears in its eyes, stayed behind on this side of the Red Line, waiting for the Rumbar Pirates to return.However... this wait lasted 50 years.How many changes had occurred over the years, as the small whale grew into a massive creature, even larger than an island, with an ocean inside its body. Everything in the world had changed, but Laboonwas still on this side of the Red Line, waiting for its masters to return.Driven by its desire to see its masters, for decades it had repeatedly rammed its head against the unyielding Red Line, leaving itself scarred and emitting mournful cries. This island-sized whale spent every day in sorrowful waiting, unaware that its masters had perished in the Grand Line decades ago.The only one who survived was Brook, who was already "dead." The long wait resulted in nothing but emptiness; such waiting was endless.The Straw Hat Crew members were moved by Laboon's story. Luffy's eyes became resolute, and he decided to fight Laboon. The others couldn't understand what he was doing.Luffy's goal was simple: to give Laboon a new reason to wait."When we circle the world and return, I'll duel you again!" Luffy told Laboon to stop hurting itself and to wait quietly for him. He also drew the Straw Hat Pirates' flag on the whale's head, both as a promise and to prevent Laboon from injuring itself by crashing into the Red Line.Finally, Laboon calmed down, and everyone had time to move around.Now that they had entered the Grand Line, Nami's biggest headache was that the Log Pose had malfunctioned; it couldn't show direction and kept spinning.Crocus said, "It seems you've come here knowing nothing at all. I can't stand you people. Are you here to die?"Crocus began to explain the basic conditions of the Grand Line.In the Grand Line, all common sense is inapplicable. The compass wasn't broken; it was because the islands in the Grand Line contained large amounts of magnetic minerals, causing the entire route's magnetic field to be extremely abnormal, and the ocean currents and wind directions were also unpredictable.To travel in the Grand Line, a Log Pose is essential."Is it this?"Luke asked, taking the Log Pose from Princess Vivi.Crocus said, "That's it. Without this Log Pose, you cannot travel in the Grand Line."The islands in the Grand Line are connected by magnetic forces according to a certain law. It is necessary to record the magnetic force connecting the islands with a Log Pose to find the route to the next island.The Grand Line has a total of seven initial routes, and one must choose one of these seven magnetic routes to proceed.No matter which route one starts from, the final destination is the same: Laugh Tale, the end of the Grand Line. What differs are the people and events of the journey.Historically, only the Pirate King Gol D. Rogerreached Laugh Tale.While Crocus was speaking, Sanji had already prepared the meal. The elephant tuna was cooked, and everyone enjoyed the delicious food in the whale's belly, savoring the unique flavors.After eating and drinking their fill, everyone decided to set off."We have a favor to ask!" said Mr. 9.Mr. 9 and Princess Vivi pleaded with everyone to take them to Whiskey Peak, their hometown."Where's your own ship?" Nami asked.Princess Vivi replied, "It's broken.""Alright, it's almost time to go. We've made a promise with the whale, so it's time to prepare for departure!" Luffy said happily, having eaten and drunk his fill.Luffy decided that the first place they would head to in the Grand Line was Whiskey Peak. Luffy agreed to Princess Vivi's and Mr. 9's request.Before leaving, Luke and Crocus went to a secluded spot and talked privately for a while."You must recognize that Straw Hat, the doctor of the Roger Pirates," Luke said with a slight smile.Crocus looked shocked: "How do you know!""No need to panic. You said that only the Roger Pirates had been to Laugh Tale, and as the ship's doctor, you naturally reached there too. Can you tell me what exactly you saw at Laugh Tale?" Lukeinquired.Crocus closed his eyes and pondered for a moment: "I'm sorry, you need to find the answer yourself.""Alright, I didn't expect you to give me the answer anyway. I want to take your fishing rod, may I?" Lukehad been interested in this fishing rod since earlier, feeling that it could identify something remarkable."Hey, that's my most cherished fishing rod! I can't give it to you," Crocus exclaimed loudly."Don't be so stingy, it's just a fishing rod. I'm taking it!"If you won't tell me the secret of Laugh Tale, I'll just take your fishing rod. This isn't a loss.Watching Luke's quickly fleeing back, Crocus looked helpless."Full speed ahead, towards Whiskey Peak!" Luffyshouted from the ship's bow."Thanks for the fishing rod, old man!" Luke also shouted loudly.Accompanied by Laboon's cries, the Going Merry set sail.Reflected in the sunset, the surrounding sea was exceptionally beautiful, echoing the saying, 'Falling glow and lonely cranes fly together, autumn waters share the same color as the vast sky.'As the Going Merry gradually moved away, Crocussmiled: "Could they be the pirates we've been waiting for all this time? They're a truly incredible bunch, aren't they, Roger?"On the deck of the Going Merry, Princess Vivi and Mr. 9 were still tied up, shouting loudly.Luke waved his hand, and the Demon Binding Ropegagged them, bringing silence to the world.Luke took out the fishing rod and began to appraise it.Usopp and Luffy gathered around, their faces filled with curious anticipation for this appraisal."Meat, meat, meat!" Luffy said expectantly, looking at the fishing rod."Meat, my foot! If a fishing rod appraises as meat, I'll eat you, Luffy!" Luke punched Luffy."What's wrong? I want to eat meat!" Luffy pouted.Luke took a deep breath and began to use the All-Things Appraisal skill on the fishing rod.A golden light flashed, and the appraisal was successful."Ding! Appraisal successful. The Advanced Fishing Rod has been appraised as the Lucky Treasure Fishing Rod, with a chance to catch high-quality appraised items!"In other words, items caught with this fishing rod would have a higher chance of being high-quality when the All-Things Appraisal skill was used on them.This was a really good fishing rod."Usopp, I'll give you 100,000 Berries for every item you catch!" Luke said."You promised, don't go back on your word!"Usopp excitedly took the newly appraised fishing rod to fish, unaware that he had become a tool.The Going Merry gradually moved away, Crocussmiled: "Could they be the pirates we've been waiting for all this time? They're a truly incredible bunch, aren't they, Roger?"
Chapter 45: Even Dogs Can't Eat the Flame-Flame FruitChapter 45: Not Even a Dog Would Eat the Mera Mera no MiThe ship sailed for a while, and then snowflakes suddenly began to fall from the sky.Just a moment ago, there was a gentle breeze, but now a biting wind was chilling them to the bone.Everyone had to put on their winter coats.Luffy was having a blast building a snowman on the ship.Usopp was calmly fishing, while Zoro lay on the deck, asleep.It was summer before Zoro fell asleep, but it was winter when he woke up, covered in snow. He slept so soundly that no one could wake him.As expected of the Grand Line, the weather was unpredictable; the only thing they could rely on was the Log Pose.Suddenly, Usopp shouted, "I caught something!"Luke calmly said, "If it's a fish, send it directly to the kitchen.""Hehe, it's not a fish this time!"Usopp reeled in his line, and a pair of ancient gauntlets leaped out of the sea."Payment, 100,000 Berries!"Usopp brought the gauntlets over.Luke readily paid Usopp 100,000 Berries, and Usopp happily went back to fishing.Holding the gauntlets, Luke felt they were extraordinary. The texture was very comfortable, so he immediately appraised them."Ding! Appraisal successful. The ancient gauntlets have been appraised as the Flame King Gauntlet. When wearing this gauntlet, one can unleash flame attacks and absorb flames!""Holy crap!"The cigarette in Luke's mouth dropped in shock.He immediately put on the Flame King Gauntlet. It looked similar to boxing gloves, with five fingers exposed.After putting on the gauntlet, an inextinguishable flame ignited on his hand, causing no damage to his skin. It was warm, comfortable, and breathable.Luke tried to release flames, throwing a fiery punch forward.Intense flames surged from the gauntlet, blasting Luffy's carefully built snowman into smithereens."Ah! Mr. Snowman! Luke, look what you've done!"Luffy was furious and began wildly throwing snowballs he picked up from the ground at Luke."Flame Barrier!"Flames enveloped Luke's body, melting all the snowballs before they even got close."Nye ha ha ha ha!" Luke laughed, hands on his hips.With this thing, why would he even need the Mera Mera no Mi? It came with its own flame attacks.This made Luke recall a common joke among fans: "Not even a dog would eat the Mera Mera no Mi."Think about it, many powerhouses in One Piece, even without eating the Mera Mera no Mi, can use flames. Kaido, Luffy, King, Big Mom, and even Sanjican all use flame-infused attacks, which makes the Mera Mera no Mi quite awkward.Jokes aside, after all, these were just skills attached to an item and couldn't be awakened, but for Luke, it was already enough.He finally had a formidable weapon: the Flame King Gauntlet.Seeing that his snowball attacks had no effect on Luke, Luffy shouted that Luke was too cunning.The others, hearing this, also gathered around, very curious about the flames emanating from Luke."Ah~ It's so warm! It can keep us warm in this cold winter!" Usopp said happily, rubbing his hands next to Luke's flames.Nami, however, was a bit curious: "Luke, what's with the flames on you?"Luke pointed to the gauntlet on his hand: "It's a treasure I appraised. You can also release flames if you wear it."Under the surprised gazes of everyone, Nami put on the Flame King Gauntlet.Flames rose from Nami's hands, but she didn't feel any burning sensation."Miss Nami, are your delicate and smooth hands burned at all?" Sanji asked with concern.Nami shook her head: "I don't feel uncomfortable. It's truly amazing."Immediately after, Nami mimicked Luke's earlier stance and threw a punch forward.Soaring flames surged from the gauntlet, blowing away and melting all the snow on the deck."Wow! So cool!" Luffy's eyes lit up."It's truly incredible."Nami looked at her hands, finding it hard to believe that the flames just now came from these gauntlets. With this gauntlet, an ordinary person's combat power could greatly increase."I want to wear it too! I want to wear it too!" Luffyshouted excitedly from the side.Nami took off the gauntlet, which Luffy then snatched and put on his hand."Gum-Gum, Flame Punch!"With a loud shout from Luffy, a flame-infused rubber fist shot towards the sky, tracing a beautiful arc."Woohoo, fireworks! It's fireworks!" Luffy was very pleased with his masterpiece."You idiot, you set the sail on fire!"Nami punched Luffy on the head, then immediately told Sanji to put out the fire.Fortunately, the sail only had a small hole burned into it; otherwise, the trouble would have been much greater.Nami solemnly said to Luke: "This gauntlet must not be given to Luffy, or this ship might burn down!"Luke nodded: "Understood, Navigator-sama!"Luffy reluctantly handed over the Flame King Gauntlet, which Luke stored in his storage ring, to be worn only during battle.After a while, the heavy snow stopped, and then dark clouds returned.Accompanied by thunder and lightning, heavy rain and strong winds lashed down, making the entire ship pitch and roll amidst the turbulent waves.Under Nami's command, everyone safely navigated through this sea area.After several hours of hard work, the weather finally cleared. A gentle breeze swept across the sea, and everyone was almost exhausted.Zoro stretched, having just woken up.Seeing everyone collapsed on the ground, Zoro said, puzzled, "Even if the weather is good, you all are too lazy."As a result, Zoro was punched twice by Nami: "You! I can't believe you slept so leisurely until now. No matter how much we called you, you just kept snoring."Zoro, feeling indignant, glared at Nami, but was punched twice again, causing three large bumps to appear on his head."Everyone, don't let your guard down. We don't know what will happen next. I finally realize the terror of this sea area, and I finally understand why it's called the Grand Line. Even so, there will always be a way. The proof is, look!"Nami pointed forward.Not far ahead, everyone saw an island.The island was shrouded in mist, with giant cacti growing abundantly. That was Whiskey Peak."It's an island! Such big cacti!" Luffy said happily, sitting on the sheep's head.Sanji also exclaimed, "This is Whiskey Peak, truly a wondrous island!"At this moment, Mr. 9 suddenly said, "Then we shall take our leave!"Princess Vivi said, "Thank you for bringing me back, darlings. See you again, bye-bye, baby!"After speaking, the two immediately jumped into the sea and swam towards Whiskey Peak, their swimming speed even faster than the ship.Earlier, due to the busyness on the ship, Luke had untied them and asked them to help, forgetting to tie them up again.But it didn't matter; they would meet again at Whiskey Peak.Watching them swim away quickly, Nami calmly said, "They left."Usopp said, "What exactly are they up to?""Who cares, we're landing!"Luffy's gaze remained fixed on Whiskey Peak