Chapter 231: The Navy on High alert and Buggy's rising reputationChapter 231: The Marine on High Alert and Buggy's Rising PrestigeWhen Luffy learned that Bon Clay was staying behind in Impel Down alone, he shook Jinbe's clothes, hoping Jinbe would turn the ship around to rescue Bon Clay.Jinbe was unmoved.During the prison break, hundreds of fellow escapees had already died, and going back meant facing Magellan, that poisonous man.No matter how much Luffy made a fuss, Jinbe would not choose to go back.Jinbe knew that if no one stayed behind, the Gates of Justice could not be opened. Bon Clay chose to be that sacrifice, and returning now would only waste his self-sacrifice in vain.Luffy picked up the Transponder Snail: "Bon-chan, can you hear me, Bon Clay? Why are you doing this again? Just like that time, weren't we supposed to escape together? You always save me. If you're there, answer me quickly, Bon Clay!"Only then did the unaware people on the warship realize that Bon Clay had sacrificed himself to save everyone.Mr. 3 and Buggy were both moved to tears by Bon Clay.Bon Clay still did not speak."Bon Clay, we're leaving. Thank you!" Luffy shouted.Bon Clay finally replied: "Straw Hat, you must save your brother! You can do it!"At this moment, the Gates of Justice behind them slowly closed, and the Transponder Snail communication was lost.The separation of the Okama needs no words; even in hell, the flower of friendship blooms. The petals, brimming with memories, will one day re-blossom on the rippling waves.Seeing the Gates of Justice close, everyone on the ship cried loudly, moved by Bon Clay.But there was no way to save him, so they could only continue forward.Checking the time, there were still four hours until Ace's execution.Under Jinbe's helmsmanship, the warship sped towards Marineford, the Marine headquarters.About five minutes later, some people had already forgotten Bon Clay.Buggy held a beer: "Cheers to our great Impel Down escape! Bottoms up!""Cheers!"The prisoners began to enjoy the food and drinks on the warship.Luffy and Mr. 3 leaned against the railing, still missing Bon Clay, tears streaming down their faces."How long are you going to be depressed? Although he was a good person, there's nothing we can do if he's dead. Let's have a good time! This is an escape party! Oh, right, let's consider it Bon Clay's funeral feast!"Buggy said drunkenly, holding a beer mug, and then Luffy punched him, sending him flying with a gushing nosebleed."Bon Clay might not be dead, you big red nose!" Luffy said."Who are you calling a big red-nosed bastard?""You are! Big red nose, big round nose, stupid nose!""You're rubber face, long face, silly face!""What did you say?"Luffy and Buggy started bickering, and because it was so childish, everyone else ignored them.Luke, meanwhile, sat cross-legged on the deck, taking out a map to examine.They were currently riding the Government's specialized turbine current, a massive whirlpool connecting the three major Government institutions.Once out of the Gates of Justice, there were only two destinations: Marine headquarters or Enies Lobby; there were no other exits.Upon learning they were going to Marineheadquarters, the crew members on board became agitated.Participating in the war between the Marineheadquarters, the Shichibukai, and Whitebeard—the brutality was unimaginable."Rather than going to a place like that, I'd rather go back to prison!"The members of Okama Paradise, however, were quite calm, as they already knew. The prisoners who followed Buggy to escape began to clamor.In this noisy moment, the Transponder Snail rang again.Picking up the phone, it was a call from the Marine.The Marine's call was somewhat inexplicable; it seemed mainly to praise the great Buggy.They identified two main culprits for this great escape: Luffy and Buggy.Through the Transponder Snail, the Marineexplained Buggy's past: he was once a crew member of Pirate King Roger and was sworn brothers with Red Hair. The Marines had investigated everything clearly.On this side of the Transponder Snail, hearing the Marine's description, the prisoners became restless. So Buggy was that awesome.Buggy's prestige instantly soared, making the prisoners worship him immensely.At the same time, the Marine also warned everyone that as long as they did not open the Gates of Justice, no one would be able to reach Marineford, or even escape this rotating sea current."Captain Buggy, you were Roger's crew member!""And Red Hair Shanks's brother!""Our savior is indeed a very powerful great pirate!"The prisoners cheered, while Buggy was somewhat flustered."How amazing, to be a member of that legendary pirate crew!""Buggy, Buggy, Buggy!"The prisoners shouted loudly. They were no longer afraid to go to Marine headquarters, because with the great Buggy there, he gave them endless spiritual encouragement.Buggy began to explain repeatedly, saying that he was just an apprentice, and that they had misunderstood, but his voice was too low, and no one heard him.However, Buggy had a change of heart. He hadn't lied, and this would raise his value. What if he defeated Whitebeard and transformed into one of the Four Emperors?Watching Buggy daydream, Luke also sighed. Although the dream was absurd, becoming one of the Four Emperors did come true.Buggy even thought about becoming one of the Four Emperors, then striving even harder to become the Pirate King.Could it be that Buggy would actually become the Pirate King in the end? Luke shook his head, casting this unreliable idea from his mind.Buggy now revealed a cunning smile. He decided to use these guys who worshipped him.Buggy used his Chop-Chop Fruit ability to fly into the air and began his speech."This ship cannot stop; it's heading towards the center of the war. It's like being on a pirate ship, so think carefully: the pinnacle of the world is right before us. You won't get an opportunity like this in your entire life, will you? If you're a man, come with me to achieve a great dream! Today, I will take Whitebeard's head and seize the world!"Buggy's radiance shone over the warship, and all the prisoners were captivated and deeply moved by Buggy's charisma.Prisoners who had been in jail for a long time, living a dark and hopeless life, had forgotten their dreams of going out to sea."I will follow you!""I don't want a stable life!"Buggy waved his hand: "That's right, let's go, lads! To Marine headquarters!"At the same time, news of the impending war between Whitebeard and Marine headquarters had spread throughout the world.Everyone was discussing whether Whitebeardwould appear at Marineford. Even Whitebeard was quite old now.Whitebeard was, after all, a survivor of the Great Pirate Era, now 72 years old. There hadn't been any news of Whitebeard in the newspapers for several years.However, many people were optimistic. Precisely because they feared Whitebeard, Marineheadquarters had gathered elites from all sides, and all their forces were on high alert. They believed Whitebeard would definitely appear.If Whitebeard appeared, it would surely be a brutal war. Regardless of who won or lost, casualties would be heavy.On Marineford, the island where Marineheadquarters is located, a large town where Marinefamilies lived had been completely evacuated.In Sabaody Archipelago, people watched the live broadcast of the public execution on large screens in evacuation shelters.Reporters and photographers from all over the world stood before the large screens, on high alert, ready to transmit the news to the entire world at the first possible moment."As expected of Marine headquarters' full deployment!""Whitebeard must understand this, yet he still intends to appear?" the reporters discussed.The scout ships sent out by the Marine were sunk as soon as they left port. The Marine could not ascertain Whitebeard's movements, and the tension pervading Marineford grew even stronger.
Chapter 232 Ace's Past and the Sudden Appearance of the Large FleetChapter 232: Ace's Past and the Suddenly Appearing Grand FleetIn Marineford's plaza, approximately 100,000 Marines from all over the world had gathered.Fifty warships surrounded the entire island, and the coast was lined with countless heavy cannons.Guarding the forefront of the port were five of the Seven Warlords of the Sea: Bartholomew Kuma, Gekko Moriah, Donquixote Doflamingo, the World's Greatest Swordsman Hawkeye, and EmpressHancock.Below the execution platform, the Marine's highest combat power, the Three Admirals—Aokiji, Akainu, and Kizaru—stood guard.All imaginable Marine forces were present, silently awaiting Whitebeard's arrival to prevent Ace from being rescued.Ace walked step by step towards the execution platform, his head bowed in thought, recalling the words he once said to Luffy."We must live without regrets. One day, we'll set sail, live without restraint, freer than anyone else."Meanwhile, Luke's warship had already arrived at the Gates of Justice in Marineford.The problem now was that the Gates of Justicewere closed, making it difficult to break through them.Beyond the Gates of Justice, in Marineford's plaza, Ace was already kneeling on the execution platform.Then, Sengoku slowly walked towards the execution platform and stood beside Ace.Fleet Admiral Sengoku had his subordinate bring a Transponder Snail and began to address those below."There's something I need to convey to everyone beforehand."The Marines listened attentively; a speech at this moment was undoubtedly very important."Portgas D. Ace, regarding the great significance of this man's execution today, Ace, state your father's name."Everyone was puzzled, including the reporters on Sabaody Archipelago; why were they asking for Ace's father's name at this moment?Ace glanced at Sengoku, then quietly said, "My old man is Whitebeard.""Incorrect!""There's nothing incorrect; it's only Whitebeard and no one else!""When we searched everywhere with wide eyes, looking for that man's child on a certain island, we thoroughly investigated newborns, unborn infants, and their parents based on our limited information and possibilities. We found nothing, which is understandable. Your birth was bought with your mother's life, or rather, it was your mother's deliberate plan. She deceived us; no, she deceived the world's eyes.""Your mother's name was Portgas D. Rouge. This woman's actions defied our common sense; for her child, she carried him in her womb for 20 months. After giving birth to you, she was utterly exhausted and died on the spot. One year and three months after your father's death, the child who inherited the world's most evil bloodline was born—that is you. You cannot possibly not know that your father is Pirate King Roger!"After Sengoku finished speaking, the entire plaza fell silent, everyone stunned by the news, while Acewas furious.The legendary Pirate King's bloodline was still alive.The reporters on Sabaody Archipelago went wild upon hearing this news, notifying their news agencies to prepare special editions, eager to spread the news immediately."Roger's legend continues.""His capture is truly reassuring; the Pirate King's son must be extremely violent!""If he were caught and put up for auction, he'd surely fetch a lot of money!""This execution is truly the best show!""Is Ace's strength inherited from his father's bloodline?""Regardless, he's finished; he's about to disappear from this world."People in front of screens on Sabaody Archipelagodiscussed animatedly.Not far from the Marineford execution platform, the elderly Garp looked into the distance, his mind replaying the scene where Roger entrusted Ace to him, and his mother's joyful expression at Ace's birth.Garp entrusted Ace to Dadan for upbringing, and then a few years later, he sent young Luffy to Dadan's care as well, to live with Ace, thus creating the two brothers.And Ace's aversion to that father. Both Ace and Luffy inherited the bloodline of the world's most heinous criminal. Even if Ace inherited the name Portgas from his mother, who had shown him immense kindness, he absolutely did not want to acknowledge the bloodline of that scoundrel father.The only father Ace acknowledged was Whitebeard.Whenever Garp thought of these things, he felt a headache. What sin had he committed? As a MarineHero, he spent his entire life fighting pirates, his son became the leader of the Revolutionary Army, and his grandson aspired to be the Pirate King. Although he had no blood relation to Ace, Garp treated him as his grandson. Each of them had deviated too far from Garp's initial plans; not a single one became a Marine.Vice Admiral Tsuru, seeing Garp's expression, comforted him, hoping he would cheer up.Sengoku continued his speech: "About two years ago, you began using your mother's name and became the Captain of the Spade Pirates. It was only when you were making a name for yourself on the high seas that we realized Roger's bloodline had not been severed. Whitebeard, who also noticed this, took the son of his former rival onto his pirate ship to train you to become the next Pirate King!"Ace shouted angrily, "No, I joined the crew to make my old man the Pirate King!""That's only what you think. The reason we couldn't easily lay a hand on you was because of Whitebeard's protection. If we leave you alone, you will undoubtedly develop the potential to stand at the pinnacle of the next era. Therefore, your execution here today holds extremely significant meaning, even if it means an all-out war with Whitebeard!"Sengoku's declaration ignited a fervor among the Marines present.Just then, a communications officer came to report."Fleet Admiral Sengoku, the Gates of Justiceopened automatically without any prior notice. We can't reach the control room!""What did you say?" Sengoku exclaimed in shock.Behind the Gates of Justice, Luke and the others' warship was still docked there. Luffy even wanted to try opening the Gates of Justice with his fists.Just then, the Gates of Justice suddenly opened on their own, catching everyone off guard."What's going on? The Gates of Justice opened by themselves?""Didn't they say they would never open?"The power room is in Marineford, so it's highly likely Whitebeard used an inside man to open them.But Buggy D. God didn't miss this opportunity to show off. Standing in the direction where the Gates of Justice opened, with sunlight shining down, he made the uninformed prisoners mistakenly believe it was Buggy D. God's doing.Although they didn't know who opened them, as long as they were open, they had to seize this opportunity.Jinbe steered, controlling the warship at full speed towards the Gates of Justice.On the lookout, a Marine scout observed with binoculars.Suddenly, dozens of pirate ships appeared from within the mist.The sudden appearance of the warships startled the Marines; they hadn't come through the Gates of Justice. Where had they appeared from?"It's a grand fleet of pirate ships!""Quickly confirm Whitebeard's pirate ship's location!?"
Chapter 233 The Power of the Earthquake FruitChapter 233 The Power of the Tremor-Tremor FruitThe Marine observed a total of forty-three pirate ships, each Captain renowned throughout the New World.They had not discovered Whitebeard and his commanders; these were all pirates under Whitebeard, responding to his call and coming to support him."Can you see little Ace?""We're here, Ace!"The pirates sharpened their blades.When Ace saw the pirate ships appear, he was shocked, and his heart was filled with both emotion and shame, believing he wasn't worth it.Doflamingo was already very excited: "How interesting, it's exhilarating! Come on, Whitebeard!"At this moment, bubbles began to rise on the sea surface in the center of Marineford's Crescent Bay.The splashes grew larger, and huge ripples undulated in Crescent Bay."A ship's shadow detected on the seabed within the bay!""Could it be!?"Sengoku understood: "So that's it; their ships were coated and came from underwater."Accompanied by massive waves from the seabed, Whitebeard's colossal pirate ship leaped out from beneath the bay, enveloped in a giant coating."The Moby Dick is here!"The appearance of the enormous Moby Dick greatly shocked the Marines.Besides the Moby Dick, three more of Whitebeard's pirate ships appeared, directly invading the bay.On those three pirate ships were Marco, the First Division Commander, and all 14 commanders.With the heavy sound of his weapon, Whitebeard, holding Murakumogiri, stepped towards the front of the Moby Dick, his towering figure appearing in everyone's sight.In front of Whitebeard were a hundred thousand Marines, and Whitebeard let out a hearty laugh."It's been over ten years, hasn't it, Sengoku?""Whitebeard!""Is my dear son alright?"Sengoku's expression was grim; he hadn't expected Whitebeard to invade so closely.On the other side, the warship carrying Luke and Luffy had already entered the Gates of Justice.After passing through the Gates of Justice, Lukefound the Nine Heavens Pirate Ship, which had been waiting there for a long time."CP9!?" Luffy was greatly surprised."Don't worry, they are our allies now."Luke leaped onto the Nine Heavens Pirate Ship, and Bullet and the others followed him."Master!"Seeing Luke again, Kalifa was very happy and threw herself into Luke's embrace.After Bullet and the others boarded the ship, the CP9 members were on high alert.Rob Lucci immediately transformed into his leopard-human form; he felt that these guys were extremely dangerous, especially dangerous."I forgot to introduce; from now on, everyone is family."Luke took out the Legion Contract and had the CP9 members sign it, excluding Kalifa.Bullet let out a mocking laugh: "These guys are also members of our legion? They're too weak!""What did you say!?" Kaku, who had transformed into a giraffe, was very indignant.Rob Lucci stopped Kaku: "Don't be rash; look closely, he is Bullet of the Roger Pirates."Not just Bullet, but also Shiliew, Patrick Redfield, and Byrnndi World.As an intelligence agency, CP9 had heard of these individuals—great pirates of the previous era, who were now also joining the Nine Heavens Pirate Group.In terms of strength and seniority, Rob Lucci was indeed inferior to them, but Luke had already stated that Rob Lucci was the Captain of the Nine Heavens Pirate Ship and had given him the position of Vice Commander of the Legion.For this, Luke added a third clause to the Legion Contract: Members must obey the orders of the Vice Commander.The CP9 members signed, and the Nine Heavens Legion had bared its fangs.Although Bullet was unconvinced by Rob Luccibecoming the Vice Commander, he dared not act rashly; that blood-red world was not a pleasant place.As soon as Luke finished these matters, the sea surface suddenly began to tremble.Whitebeard's powerful blow caused a massive seaquake.The sea immediately became turbulent, and huge waves surged skyward.Whitebeard's Tremor-Tremor Fruit ability shook the sea, triggering a massive tsunami that enveloped Marineford, the Marine Headquarters.The ships carrying Luke and Luffy began to shake violently, and the fierce sea wind nearly blew people away.Taking advantage of this strong sea wind, Lukeordered the crew to hoist the sails.The ships began to advance rapidly towards Marineford; Whitebeard had already arrived, and any further delay would be too late.The war was about to begin, and Luke was already boiling with excitement.Luffy shouted: "Charge with this momentum!"Just as everyone was excited, the sea current beneath the ships suddenly surged, pushing both ships upward.It felt the same as when they rode the sea current to Sky Island; the ships were lifted into the sky by the current.The colossal tsunami blotted out the sky, and the Marines of Marineford were aghast; if these waves crashed down, they would be utterly annihilated.At this moment, Admiral Aokiji moved.Using his powerful ice abilities, he froze the towering giant waves in mid-air."Ice Age!""It stopped, it stopped!""We're, we're saved!""It's Admiral Kuzan!"The Marines breathed a sigh of relief.At the same time, Aokiji threw an Ice Saber at Whitebeard.Whitebeard swung his right fist, and the Ice Saber was shattered instantly; Aokiji himself was sent flying, landing on the sea surface.Aokiji, upon landing on the sea, used his ice ability to freeze the entire bay."The entire bay is frozen!""Ship movements are blocked!"At this moment, Luke had transformed into lightning and stood at the top of the frozen tsunami; from here, he could see the entire situation of the Marineford War.Seeing Kuzan freeze the bay, Luke wondered if Aokiji was assisting the pirates.Precisely because the sea surface was frozen, the pirates could step on the ice and rush towards Marineford; perhaps Aokiji's original intention was only to block ship movements, but for the operation to rescue Ace, it was more beneficial than detrimental."Artillery fire, destroy the Moby Dick!"A large number of cannonballs began to be fired.Whitebeard's pirates were already restless."Come on, let's go!""The frozen sea surface is a good foothold.""Let them see what we're capable of!"The pirates leaped from their ships and swarmed towards Marineford.Whitebeard's commanders led the charge, with the pirates following, and the various Marine generals also led their forces to meet the attack.In an instant, this frozen bay became a battlefield.Not only could the Marines fire cannons, but the pirates also aimed their cannons at Marineford and continuously bombarded it.The Vice Admirals of Marine Headquarters appeared together, cutting through the cannonballs with their blades."Bring the ships alongside the ice, wipe them all out! Our target is the upper bay, attack!"Luke noticed a guy, Squard; he was standing on a ship, commanding the pirates.This guy made Luke a little angry; during the war, he had contact with Akainu and was turned by him, believing Akainu's words and ambushing Whitebeard with a giant blade amidst the chaos of the battle.Although he later realized his mistake, suffered on the battlefield, and attended Whitebeard's funeral, Luke felt he still needed to be punished.
Chapter 234 Akainu Takes ActionChapter 234: Akainu Makes His MoveLuke stood atop the frozen tsunami, his right index finger flickering with electricity. The current then accurately struck Squard in the back.The punishment Luke dealt was simple: paralysis. Using the power of electricity, he damaged Squard's nerve cells, leaving him unable to move the lower half of his body.This way, he wouldn't be able to betray Whitebeardwith Akainu and carry out the plan to ambush him.Luke's actions were very covert and went unnoticed by those below.The members of Squard's Spider Pirates were astonished. Why had their Captain collapsed, trembling all over? They looked around but couldn't find an attacker. Could it be that their Captain had suffered a heart attack?Luke remained above, continuing to observe the battle.Just then, Hawkeye stepped forward. It seemed Hawkeye was about to make a move."Dracule Mihawk, the Seven Warlords of the Seaare finally..."Kizaru sighed, "This is truly rare."Akainu said, "That self-willed Hawkeye actually wants to participate in the battle."Doflamingo snorted, "What, are you going to join in?""I'm just going to test the man before me, to see how great the gap is between him and us," Hawkeye said indifferently.Flower Blade Vista saw Hawkeye and was already eager to fight him. As swordsmen, they all believed him to be the strongest, and all wanted to cross swords with Hawkeye.Hawkeye drew his Black Blade Yoru, one of the twelve Supreme Grade Swords in the world. Its dark blade had a wave-like edge, a heavy flower-shaped temper line, a famous sword only worthy of the strongest swordsman.Hawkeye swung his black blade, and a massive green sword energy flew out, heading straight for Whitebeard.The sword energy sliced across the ice, carving a huge fissure into its surface.Everyone watched the slash.Just as the sword energy was about to reach the Moby Dick, Diamond Jozu appeared and blocked it.The green sword energy transformed into a swirling tornado and was deflected into the sky.Diamond Jozu, with most of his body encased in diamond, appeared in front of the Moby Dick, shimmering brightly.The Commander of the Third Division, Diamond Jozu, had blocked the world's strongest slash.After delivering that one slash, Hawkeye sheathed his sword, with no intention of further attacks.At this point, the battlefield grew even livelier. Sengoku directed the artillery to bombard the pirate ships and the approaching pirates.Kizaru glanced around, feeling it was time to get to work."Honestly, they truly are Whitebeard Pirates. Every single one of them is as strong as a monster~"Kizaru stood up from his seat. "If we want to minimize losses, catching the leader first is the best method~"Kizaru's body transformed into a laser, then appeared above the bay like a shining sun, its dazzling light making everyone unable to open their eyes."Ki... Kizaru is here!" The pirates were in a panic.Kizaru spread his hands. "Yasakani Sacred Jewel."Countless lasers shot from Kizaru's body, heading straight for Whitebeard on the Moby Dick.Whitebeard said calmly, "Whoa, whoa, why is it so blinding?"Just as the lasers were about to hit Whitebeard, First Division Commander Marco flew up, transforming into a phoenix, and blocked all the laser attacks.A series of minor techniques were unleashed, all blocked by Marco.Even the Marines were surprised that an Admiral's attack had been blocked.Marco, wreathed in blue flames, floated in the air, his injured areas instantly regenerating with the flames.Marco said, "How could I… let you disturb our great Captain the moment you arrive?"Luke watched Marco flying in the air, impressed by "Little Marco." This was the Zoan-type, Bird-Bird Fruit, Mythical Zoan, Phoenix form ability user, possessing incredibly strong regenerative abilities.Kizaru said, "How scary, the Whitebeard Pirates."He said this, but his expression remained unchanged, showing no sign of fear."It worked, huh?" Marco smiled slightly."Don't lie," Kizaru said.Then Marco, covered in blue flames, flew towards Kizaru."I've never seen a bird like this before."Kizaru once again unleashed Yasakani Sacred Jewel, sending a large number of lasers towards Marco.The lasers hitting the large blue bird only caused a slight ripple, inflicting no real damage.Marco flew in front of Kizaru, and an aerial kick was blocked by Kizaru's right hand."Hmm~~ This move worked too, huh?" Kizaru said."Don't lie!" Marco said.Marco exerted force, and Kizaru was kicked down from the sky, plummeting rapidly as a laser, then crashing into a wall."He actually sent Kizaru-san flying! This can't be real, Admiral Kizaru!" The Marines exclaimed.Kizaru transformed into light and stood on the ground, completely unharmed."Hmm~~ It seems it won't be so simple to go straight for the kill."Kizaru's lazy demeanor was very much like Lukewhen he was tired from work.Immediately after, Diamond Jozu also took action."All of you, stand down!"Jozu punched the ice surface, and under the impact of this punch, the thick ice surface actually developed a huge circular crack.Such a perfectly regular circle made Luke marvel, 'Could this guy be a math teacher, drawing circles freehand?'Jozu roared, pulling a massive iceberg from the sea."What does he want to do?""Come and stop it if you dare!"Jozu exerted all his strength and hurled the iceberg towards the execution platform. The colossal iceberg was even larger than a Giant Race member."It's an iceberg!""This is way too big!"The Marines were shocked. Such a massive iceberg was not something ordinary Marine grunts could deal with.Seeing the huge iceberg about to fly towards the execution platform, Akainu moved.Akainu was speechless about the two empty seats beside him. "Honestly, those two, abandoning their posts! If we all attack, who will guard here!"Akainu stood up from his seat, his right fist surging with magma."Great Eruption!"A colossal magma fist flew out, striking the massive iceberg.The magma fist surged forward, shattering the large iceberg and completely dissolving it."That enormous iceberg was completely vaporized without a trace!" The pirates exclaimed.The magma fist did not disappear; it then transformed into a large number of magma volcanic bombs flying towards the pirates.The massive magma bombs caused considerable damage to the pirates; the battlefield momentarily looked like the end of the world.Many pirate ships were sunk by the magma, and screams were incessant.A huge piece of magma flew towards Whitebeard, who lightly blocked it with Murakumogiri."He's setting fires in such an exaggerated way."Whitebeard gently blew on Murakumogiri, and the flames on it vanished, leaving only a piece of dark magma rock.Whitebeard grinned. "Are you lighting the candles on a birthday cake, magma brat?"Akainu, also a cultured man, chuckled. "Don't you like a grand funeral, Whitebeard?"Akainu's magma attacks ceased, and the battlefield returned to its previous commotion, with the pirates still pushing forward.The Marines shouted slogans like "Sink the Moby Dick!" and "Eliminate Whitebeard!" as they fought fiercely.Among the many Marines, Luke also saw Koby and Helmeppo.Koby, fighting for the first time, was terrified. There were dead and wounded Marines everywhere, bodies strewn about. Koby was so scared he could barely move.Helmeppo even suggested that Koby quickly flee, as this was not a place for rookies like them to participate. However, Koby remembered his promise to Luffy and decided to remain standing there.
Chapter 235 The Nine Heavens Legion is dispatchedChapter 235: The Nine Heavens Legion MobilizesWhile Koby stood there in hesitation, a giant figure approached from a distance.As a descendant of Oars the Devil, Little Oars Jr. stood at a towering 380 meters, far larger than the Giant Race.With every step Oars took, the ground trembled, and his immense size drew everyone's attention.The Marine immediately ordered cannon fire, but the cannonballs had no effect on Oars.Oars raised his great sword and brought it down on the cannon emplacements, his ferocious slash destroying the Marine's artillery formation.Little Oars Jr. shouted Ace's name."Well done!""Go, Little Oars Jr.!"Little Oars Jr.'s appearance injected even higher morale into the pirates.Moriah, seeing Little Oars Jr., showed intense interest in him, thinking of another corpse he could use as his puppet.Unfortunately, his own strength was insufficient; even with the best puppet, it would be useless.Doflamingo let out a sinister laugh, indicating his hands were itching."Oars!" Ace shouted loudly."Ace is very kind; I will never let him die!" Little Oars Jr. said with firm eyes.Little Oars Jr. quickly broke through to the edge of the port, and the Marine's Giant unit also began to move.The Giant unit advanced towards Little Oars Jr.Little Oars Jr. arrived in front of a warship, picked it up with both hands, and then threw it towards the Marine Giant unit.The Giants were like children in front of Little Oars Jr., struck down by the warship Oars threw, and completely wiped out.The warship shattered the wall inside the bay, opening a breakthrough point."Charge into the bay!" The pirates' morale soared."No good! Retreat and strengthen internal defenses; don't let them enter the plaza!" The Marinecommander shouted loudly.Oars charged forward fearlessly, leading the pirates.Whitebeard said, "That fool Oars, there's no helping him. Bravery and recklessness are not the same thing!""Pops, don't stop me! I must save Ace, and as quickly as possible!" Little Oars Jr. said."I know, you guys. Help Little Oars Jr. clean up!" Whitebeard ordered his subordinates.Immediately, a large contingent went to support Little Oars Jr.At this moment, Hancock also moved, though she fought both sides. Whether pirate or Marine, anyone who stood before her was going to get a beating."Although I agreed to fight Whitebeard with you, it doesn't mean I am your comrade. Men, whether friend or foe, are all the same, except for that man. I hope you consider that I have kept my promise, hmm~ especially given my peerless beauty~"The angry Marines looked at Hancock, their faces actually flushing. Indeed, they were helpless against Hancock.At this moment, Kuma, a Shichibukai, also moved.Kuma raised his hands to the sky, similar to gathering a Spirit Bomb, and began to compress the air.A massive air Bullet was compressed to the size of a palm, then propelled towards Little Oars Jr.Little Oars Jr. saw the air Bullet slowly floating towards him and did not dodge.The air Bullet accurately hit Little Oars Jr., then produced a powerful shockwave, comparable to a missile.The shockwave shattered dozens of meters of ice behind Little Oars Jr., tore his clothes, and temporarily rendered him unconscious.Little Oars Jr. still stood there, but blood was flowing from his seven orifices; his situation was not optimistic."Oars!" Ace shouted hoarsely."That's enough, give up." Ace said.Little Oars Jr. knelt on the ground, and the straw hat Ace gave him fell with him.Seeing the hat on the ground, Little Oars Jr. recalled the good times he had shared with Ace.Then Oars stood up again and continued to advance towards Ace.At this point, all the cannons aimed at Oars. More powerful cannonballs struck Oars's face and body; such a large body became the biggest target.Oars fell again. His eyes, hazy, looked in Ace's direction, wanting to reach out and touch him, but he couldn't.Before falling, Oars decided he would at least take down one Shichibukai, and standing before him was Donquixote Doflamingo.Oars clenched his right fist and swung it towards Doffy.Luke kept a close eye on Doffy's movements. As Little Oars Jr. attacked Doffy, Doffy used a thin string to bind Little Oars Jr.'s calf.Luke turned into lightning and appeared in front of Little Oars Jr.'s calf, cutting Doffy's string, then transformed back into lightning and flew back onto the frozen tsunami.Doflamingo vaguely saw a guy fly in, then disappear.Facing Little Oars Jr.'s attack, Doffy lightly leaped into the air, then crooked his finger, realizing the string he had just shot out had no effect.A big question mark appeared in Doffy's mind. Then Doffy looked up at the sky, and on top of the frozen tsunami, a figure stood—he was the one causing trouble.At this moment, all members of the Nine Heavens Legion had arrived, standing beside Luke, watching the battle below.Seeing Doffy look at him, his large head filled with confusion, Luke couldn't help but laugh. Doffy, you also have a day when you're played with.It could be seen that Doflamingo's veins bulged in his head; he had actually been tricked, and Doflamingo's volatile temper immediately flared up.Doffy stepped on the air, flying rapidly towards Luke.Doffy's unusual behavior also attracted the attention of many people present.Sengoku, Garp, Vice Admiral Tsuru, the three Admirals, Ace, the Shichibukai members, as well as Whitebeard and Marco, all looked in the direction Doflamingo was flying.Just as Doffy was about to fly to the peak of the frozen tsunami, Bullet appeared.Bullet flashed and appeared in front of Doflamingo.Bullet grinned, "You're dressed quite flashily, little guy with sunglasses!"Seeing Bullet appear, Doflamingo's pupils constricted. Although Bullet had been out of action for many years, his legend still circulated.Bullet threw his right fist, and Doffy raised his arms to block.A simple punch struck Doffy's arms, and Doffy plummeted vertically towards the ice like a cannonball.Accompanied by a loud crash, Doffy pierced through the ice, knocked into the sea with one punch."Bullet!" Sengoku clearly saw the figure in the air.Sengoku's right hand, holding the Den Den Mushi, trembled. Why was Bullet here? He was supposed to be imprisoned on Level 6 of Impel Down.The only possibility was that he had escaped, coupled with the previous news that Luffy had infiltrated Impel Down, and Blackbeard; they certainly had something to do with it.Garp also had a huge headache; he knew his grandson Luffy had broken into Impel Down, but causing such a big commotion made it impossible to clean up this mess."Bullet the Demon Heir!" Hawkeye said faintly."A member of the Roger Pirates, is he here to save Ace?" Moriah said.Whitebeard watched Bullet cautiously. It was still unknown whether Bullet was friend or foe; if he was an enemy, it would be extremely troublesome.
Chapter 236 Luffy's AppearanceChapter 236 Luffy AppearsBullet's appearance threw both the Pirates and the Marines into disarray.Bullet looked at Whitebeard on the Moby Dick and said, "Long time no see, Whitebeard.""Bullet, that kid who used to be with Roger, are you planning to be my enemy?" Whitebeard asked.Although Bullet was itching for a fight and wanted to see Whitebeard's current strength, Luke had already given Bullet orders not to attack Whitebeard, so Bullet did not dare to act rashly."I have no such intention. I'm here today to save Ace. I heard that kid is our Captain's son," Bullet said with a laugh.Whitebeard snorted, a smile playing on his lips. It was even better if he wasn't an enemy and was an ally.On the other side, a weakened Oars had already fallen.Moriah, coveting Oars' body, wanted to take the opportunity to kill him.Just as Moriah was controlling his shadow to pierce Oars, Rob Lucci appeared beside Moriah."You are?" Moriah asked, confused."Six King Gun!"A Six Styles secret art, delivered without explanation, struck Moriah, sending him flying directly. His eyes rolled back, and he fell to the ground unconscious."Lucci!" Sengoku looked at Lucci below, his expression somewhat surprised."Lucci, what exactly are you doing?" Sengokudemanded."As before, carrying out orders," Rob Lucci said coldly."Carrying out orders? Haven't you already…" Sengoku stopped there, unable to continue, because after the Enies Lobby incident, the World Government had ordered the pursuit of CP9."I can overlook your responsibility, but don't interfere. Leave here!" Sengoku shouted.Rob Lucci was unmoved. His current superior was Luke, so Sengoku's words meant nothing to him.Lucci glanced at Ace on the execution platform, then used Moonwalk to fly away quickly.Just as he was about to reach Ace, Kizaru appeared, kicking Lucci away with a light-speed kick."Whoa, whoa~ Don't do anything reckless, former CP9 member Rob Lucci," Kizaru said glibly.The war continued, and the brutal fighting instilled fear in many Marines, making them contemplate escape.At this moment, Akainu would appear before them. Any Marine who dared to flee, and remained unpersuaded, would be executed on the spot by Akainu, turned into a pile of magma.Garp walked step by step to the execution platform and sat down next to Ace."What are you doing here? Do you have any objections to the operation?" Sengoku asked."No. The opponents are pirates, I have no sympathy.""Then...""Shut up, what does it matter if I stay here?"Garp sat quietly beside Ace, recalling the happy scenes he shared with his grandson in the past."Although they are pirates who don't deserve sympathy, family is different," Garp murmured.Garp's body trembled: "What should I do? Ace, you bastard, why didn't you live as I told you to!"Garp was in tears, and Ace gritted his teeth. His grandfather had wanted him to become a strong Marine, and he still remembered it."Old man..." Looking at Garp beside him, Acecouldn't say anything.Just as Garp was immersed in sorrow, a warship suddenly appeared in the sky, plummeting rapidly.The screaming boy on the warship, with his Straw Hat fluttering, caught everyone's eyes."I told you you went too far!""It's this guy's fault for blinking!""Are you trying to blame me, Crocodile?""It doesn't matter, people will die if we fall! It's all ice down there!"Buggy, Mr. 3, Mr. 2, Crocodile, Jinbe, Ivankov, and Luffy fell rapidly from the sky.With a loud crash from the sky, Luffy made a dazzling entrance."I'm rubber, so I'm fine!" Luffy said.Mr. 3, falling at high speed, had disheveled hair: "Do you want to be the only one saved? Think of something!""I don't want to die like this, someone stop us!" Ivankov exclaimed.Buggy was in tears: "I shouldn't have listened to your advice, Straw Hat!"Everyone on the battlefield looked at this group of unknown individuals with confusion. Of course, most of them were old acquaintances, especially after seeing Luffy's face."Ace!" Luffy shouted loudly towards Ace as he flew through the air.Garp was no longer sad; his eyes were almost popping out. Was he seeing things? How did that idiotic grandson fall from the sky and arrive here? Was God playing a joke?As for why Luffy fell from the sky, let's rewind a bit.Just a few minutes ago, the warship carrying Luffyand the others was also pushed to the top by Whitebeard's seaquake, and then frozen at the top."Xiao, what are you looking at over there? Quickly think of something, the warship is stuck here!" Luffyshouted to Luke.At this moment, Luke was busy watching Oars: "Use your cleverness, go, Captain!""Yosh!" Luffy lightly struck his left palm with his right fist, having thought of a good idea.Luffy planned to first get the warship out of the ice, then slide down the outside, so everyone could land safely.Just then, by coincidence, the den den mushi on the warship rang, bringing explosive news: Ace's execution was to be moved up.This enraged Luffy. He suddenly erupted, stomping on the ice, which then shattered, causing everyone and the warship to fall together.Fortunately, Luke reacted quickly, taking the people of the Nine Heavens Legion a hundred meters away.Seeing Luke's swift reaction, Kaku let out a long sigh of relief: "It seems you know your Captain very well.""Of course."Luke felt that this viewing spot was quite good and didn't plan to go down for now.And so, Luffy led his crew, falling from the sky.Fortunately, the place where everyone fell was the section where Diamond Jozu had previously moved the ice, so everyone fell into the sea and saved their lives."Is it a Marine surprise attack?""No, those guys don't look like Marines!" The Whitebeard Pirates members discussed amongst themselves.Luffy, Buggy, and all the other Devil Fruit users were dragged out of the sea by Jinbe and lay on the warship's deck.Soon, Luffy opened his eyes, coughed a few times, and then stood on the deck to observe.The battlefield was a mess, with fighting figures everywhere, and smoke so thick that he couldn't even see where Ace was.Luffy ran continuously, climbing to the top of the warship's mast. Finally, in the distance, at the execution platform in Marineford's plaza, he saw Ace, and Sengoku and Garp beside Ace."A~~~~ce!"Luffy stood at the top of the mast and roared, his voice echoing across the battlefield."Luffy~~~" Ace responded."Ace~~~" Luffy cheered, his expression clearly overjoyed: "Haha, I finally see you."Luffy said with determined eyes: "Ace, wait for me, I'm coming to save you!"
Chapter 237 BreakthroughChapter 237: Breaking ThroughOld Sand, Ivankov, Jinbe, Buggy, and a host of their subordinates appeared by Luffy's side, making the battlefield even livelier.Luffy's appearance stole Bullet's thunder. Bullet had no intention of making a move and quietly returned to Luke's side, watching the battle below with his arms crossed.Sengoku was furious: "Garp, it's your damn family again!"Garp, clutching his head, was also shocked: "Luffy!"The Marines all recognized Old Sand, Jinbe, Ivankovof the Revolutionary Army, and some escaped Impel Down prisoners, which somewhat shook the morale of the Marine.Hawkeye said, "The Straw Hat always finds himself in the eye of the storm."As for Hancock, Luke glanced at her, and what a glance it was. He noticed Hancock staring intently at his side, as if she had spotted him.Hancock's face was flushed, looking lovesick."Another group of formidable individuals has arrived," Aokiji said.Kuma stood there silently."I didn't expect to see you again so soon," Kizarusaid.Marco said, "Isn't that Luffy, the brother Ace always talks about?""Mr. Smoker, look over there!" Tashigi exclaimed.Smoker, with a cigarette in his mouth, indicated that he had already seen them. The combination of Luffyand Crocodile was somewhat unexpected to him.Akainu stood there: "That's the guy, Hero Garp's grandson, Revolutionary Army Dragon's son, but more importantly..."Akainu cast his gaze towards the peak of the frozen tsunami. Besides Bullet, he could vaguely make out a few other people, one of whom had a familiar silhouette. He hoped he was mistaken.If that guy came here, it would be the worst-case scenario.Sengoku looked at Jinbe: "I didn't expect you to act with Straw Hat of all people. Is this your answer, Jinbe?""Yes, this old man is no longer a Shichibukai!" Jinbedeclared decisively.Garp sighed, his grandson's group was too strange, commonly known as the Sand Hat Alliance.Prisoners, Revolutionary Army cadres, and a group of eccentric individuals like Crocodile. Garp didn't believe they shared the same objective.Who would have thought Crocodile's target was Whitebeard?Crocodile turned into sand and flew towards Whitebeard."Long time no see, Whitebeard!""He's truly someone who never learns his lesson," Whitebeard said.Just as Old Sand was about to attack Whitebeard, Luffy, in Gear Second, appeared and kicked Crocodile away."Our agreement was fulfilled once we reached here. Why are you protecting Whitebeard?""If this old man is Whitebeard, then no one is allowed to lay a hand on him! Ace really likes this old man!" Luffy said.Marco praised, "Ace's brother, he's got good moves."Whitebeard turned and saw Luffy's Straw Hat, the same hat Roger and Shanks once wore.He recalled Red Hair, who had lost an arm, coming aboard his ship earlier. Shanks had said he was betting it on the new era."Kid, that Straw Hat looks a lot like the one Shankswears.""Old man, do you know Shanks? He entrusted this to me.""Are you here to save your brother?""That's right.""Do you know the enemies you face?"Whitebeard plunged his great sword into the ship: "Someone like you could lose his life!"Whitebeard could see Luffy's strength; his current level was not enough to contend in the Marineford War.Luffy clenched his fist: "Shut up! You don't get to decide that!"Whitebeard frowned. This kid was stubborn, quite interesting."I know, you want to be the Pirate King, right? I'm the one who's going to be the Pirate King!" Luffysaid with his hands on his hips, exuding an aura of kingship.Besides Roger, Luffy was the only one to say such a thing to Whitebeard's face.This roar not only shocked the pirates but also the Marines. What a naive fellow, was he courting death?Whitebeard spun his great sword, not angry but laughing: "Quite arrogant! If you dare to hold us back, I won't forgive you, snot-nosed brat!"Luffy stomped his foot, turned, and looked in Ace's direction: "I'm going to do things my way! I'll save Ace!"Buggy the God and Ivankov were stunned. Luffyhad actually challenged Whitebeard.Shiliew, beside Luke, took a puff from his cigar: "This Straw Hat is quite amusing."Bullet burst into laughter: "So weak and yet he wants to be the Pirate King? Get past me first!"Luffy's strength was still far from that of an Admiral.Kizaru, with a faint smile, asked Sengoku: "Is it alright to kill all of them?""Of course!" Sengoku replied.Luffy was ready to break through. Before doing so, he relayed the information he had heard about the execution being moved up to Whitebeard.After speaking, Luffy roared, jumped off the Moby Dick, and dashed towards Ace's direction.Luke waved his hand: "CP9 members, go down and clear a path for Luffy!""Understood!"CP9, including Kalifa, flew down using Moonwalk."Look, there's a group of people over there!" the Marines exclaimed."It's CP9! Are they here to intercept Straw Hat?"Apparently not. CP9 members appeared by Luffy's side, escorting him and knocking away anyone who approached him.Sengoku was so furious he nearly crushed his Den Den Mushi: "Rob Lucci!"Rob Lucci snorted, then also came to Luffy's side, helping him break through.Luke smiled slightly. This couldn't be blamed on CP9; it was all assistance from the Government. If they hadn't ordered the pursuit of CP9, Lukewouldn't have recruited them into the Nine Heavens Corps. It was fate.Luke felt that the Gorosei had some issues, perhaps they had been at the top for too long, and their brains had frozen, making a series of decisions that only aided the Straw Hat Crew.Luke even thought that Vegapunk might also join the Straw Hat Pirates, which would also be due to the Gorosei's foolish decisions.Whitebeard looked in Luke's direction. There was another group of people there. Although he couldn't clearly see who they were, he felt they were quite dangerous.Diamond Jozu saw Luffy's bravery and commanded: "We can't lose to the Straw Hat! Third Division, charge!"Jinbe and Ivankov also jumped down, escorting Luffy.Sengoku was somewhat puzzled that this kid, Luffy, had greatly boosted the morale of the pirates.Many Marines began to intercept Luffy, including Marine Vice Admiral Hina and the hypnotist Jango, who had already joined the Marine.A large number of Marines surrounded Luffy. Kizaruwatched from the sidelines: "His opponents are all at the Rear Admiral level. Let's see how long he can last."Kizaru hadn't even finished speaking when those people were sent flying by CP9, making Kizaru feel quite embarrassed."Don't come, Luffy!" Ace shouted."You should understand that we are pirates, meant to sail freely on the seas. I have my own adventures, my own crew. You have no right to meddle in my affairs! How can a coward like you come to save me? Do you think I'd allow it? There's nothing more shameful than this. Go back, Luffy, why are you here?"Ace's words were harsh, but deep down, he was thinking of Luffy. He hoped Luffy would listen to him and leave quickly; this was not Luffy's stage yet.
Chapter 238 The Perception of the StrongChapter 238: Perception of the Strong"I'm your brother!" Luffy shouted as he ran.This sentence immediately broke Ace's emotional defenses."Pirate rules? What do I care about them!"Luffy completely ignored Ace and continued his brave charge.Sengoku then picked up the Transponder Snail: "That Straw Hat in the future is also a harmful factor. He is Ace's sworn brother, having grown up together since childhood, and he is the son of the revolutionary Dragon!"Those unaware were shocked once again; it was another explosive piece of news."The son of the world's most dangerous criminal!""The son of that revolutionary, Dragon!""His dad is that important?" Buggy-sama was stunned.At this moment, Smoker on the battlefield recalled the scene in Loguetown. So that was why Dragon had intervened to save Luffy.Reporters on Sabaody Archipelago heard the big news again and began calling their newspaper headquarters to urgently print extra editions."Say whatever you want, even if I die, I'll save you!"Luffy immediately used Gear Three's Revolver and sent a giant Marine Vice Admiral flying.Seeing Luffy's ferocity, Whitebeard smiled: "Marco, don't let him die."Ace, kneeling on the execution platform, was stunned. What a foolish younger brother he had.Ace felt very sad, especially with his loyal and righteous personality. Whitebeard and Luffy were the people he cherished most. When they risked their lives to save him, what kind of feelings would he have? Guilt, shame, sadness, unwillingness."What's wrong with you?" Garp asked."I... I can accept any future. I will grasp the helping hand extended to me, or the blade of judgment. I won't panic anymore. I'm very sorry to everyone."At this moment, Ace held no illusions about surviving. He would simply accept whatever came, whether living or dying didn't matter. When a person truly wants to live, they wouldn't speak such words.On the other side, Buggy also wanted to show off.Incited by his prisoner subordinates, Buggy was full of confidence.Whitebeard looked at Buggy: "Hey, Red-Nose!""Who are you calling Red-Nose, you bastard! I'll kill you, you bastard!"Buggy gasped, but then turned and saw it was Whitebeard speaking. His face immediately turned pale, and his heart stopped. He had actually spoken such arrogant words to Whitebeard; he could die for that.However, Whitebeard didn't bother with him: "Isn't that the brat from Roger's crew? It brings back memories. So you're still alive."Buggy's heart was in turmoil. Being targeted by Whitebeard would definitely mean death. He was already thinking of ways to escape.When the prisoners saw Whitebeard actively speaking to Buggy, they became even more worshipful of Buggy. These people's minds were definitely problematic."Are you here with so many prisoners to take my head?" Whitebeard asked."That's right!" Before Buggy could speak, the prisoners expressed his thoughts for him. Buggyalmost threw up."Sorry, that's the Captain's line!""Please tell Whitebeard clearly!"His subordinates pushed Buggy forward, leaving him no room to retreat.Buggy waved his hand grandly: "Prepare yourself, Whitebeard!"As he said this, two lines of hot tears streamed down his cheeks."Oh? Taking my head is fine, but what do you plan to do next? You can't handle so many Marines, can you? Actually, I find it tricky too. How about it? As fellow pirates, let's team up to deal with the Marines first. My head can wait."Whitebeard's words made Buggy feel valued, praised, and acknowledged. Being recognized by Whitebeard was such a joyful thing.His subordinates cheered, their Captain had been recognized by Whitebeard, and they worshipped Buggy even more.For a moment, Buggy felt a sense of being on equal footing with Whitebeard.Only Mr. 3 remained clear-headed, constantly advising Buggy not to be reckless.Buggy, at this point, was completely overwhelmed with joy, a pleased smile on his face: "Well, if I get serious, I have a feeling I can do it. I've seen it, my potential to become the King of the World! Taking down the Marines is nothing, as long as Whitebeardand I team up."Buggy's radiance blinded the prisoners, causing their admiration points to break through the limit.Marco, by Whitebeard's side, quietly said: "Hmm, this guy is surprisingly easy to deal with.""Forget about Red-Nose for a moment, those prisoners behind him are very powerful. Being enemies with them would be troublesome," Whitebeard said.Buggy was immersed in his joy and didn't hear Whitebeard and Marco's conversation.On the other side, Luffy continued to break through.Moriah, who had been sent flying by Lucci, returned, dragging his bruised and battered body.He reanimated the dead bodies on the ground and ordered them to attack Luffy and CP9.However, Jinbe appeared and punched Moriah away again. This time, he sank into the sea. Luke, quick as a flash, arrived beside Moriah, threw him into the Demon Suppressing Pagoda, thinking he might still be useful later.Then, Luke transformed into a bolt of lightning and flew back to the peak of the frozen tsunami.Although Luke's movements were very fast, he was still seen by several powerhouses on the battlefield.Whitebeard said: "That guy just now, do you remember him?"Marco shook his head: "Very fast, couldn't see him too clearly. It seemed to be Luke from the Straw Hat Crew.""Luke? Is he very strong? I haven't heard of him," Whitebeard said.Marco stroked his chin: "Bounty of 270 million Berries, second only to Luffy.""They're all just brats. This isn't where they should be," Whitebeard said.Compared to Whitebeard's calmness, Sengoku was far from it.In that flash of lightning, Sengoku had roughly seen who it was—Luke."Luke!"Sengoku clenched his fists, gritting his teeth.If there hadn't been the Marineford War, what Lukehad done before would definitely have been news comparable to the Marineford War: killing Celestial Dragons, destroying the outskirts of Holy Land Mary Geoise, and finally, the Gorosei and Imu had to step in to quell the matter.This guy had also come here. Now things were getting quite tricky.There was one piece of good news: the world-destroying black dragon had been killed. Without the black dragon, Luke's danger level was significantly reduced, but he was still at least a threat approaching Admiral-level."Luke?" Ace looked at Sengoku, not understanding why Sengoku hated Luke so much.Garp sighed: "That Luffy, I don't know where he recruited such a terrifying crewmate. If he comes to save you, even the three Admirals would need to be extremely vigilant."Ace remembered Luke and had even fought him once; they were evenly matched at the time.Luke quietly watched the battlefield at this moment. He felt the gazes from several powerhouses below, including Whitebeard, Marco, Hawkeye, Sengoku, the three Admirals, and a lovesick Hancock.These powerhouses all possessed powerful Observation Haki. Although Luke moved quickly, they still perceived him.Luffy was currently in some trouble, entangled with Smoker. Luke immediately notified CP9 to defeat Smoker.In an instant, Smoker was surrounded by the members of CP9."You go first, little Straw Hat," Kalifa said."Okay!" Luffy nodded and continued running towards Ace.Smoker frowned, a big question mark in his mind."A group fight? I'm not afraid!"Smoker swung his Smoke Fist towards Rob Lucci, but was whipped by Kalifa's Armament Haki-infused whip, causing him to grimace in pain."Colonel Smoker!" Tashigi exclaimed from not far away."Don't come over!" Smoker said.Immediately after, Smoker was ganged up on by the members of CP9, especially Kalifa with her Armament Haki, whose attacks were exceptionally fierce, leaving Smoker unable to parry.
Chapter 239 Hawkeye's SlashChapter 239: Hawkeye's SlashBartholomew Kuma, holding a Bible, blocked Luffy's path forward.Ivankov came before Kuma, looking at his old friend, and tried desperately to stop him."It's me! Have you forgotten me? If you don't stop, I'll attack!"It was useless to say these words to Kuma now. Ever since he sent the Straw Hat Crew flying at Sabaody Archipelago, Kuma had been taken back for further modification. Under Vegapunk's final Transformation, Kuma had become a human weapon.Initially, his limbs were modified, with long-term, gradual alterations to various body parts while his consciousness was preserved.The man once known as the Tyrant Kuma was completely dead.Ivankov still couldn't believe that Kuma would work for the World Government; Kuma's personality would absolutely never allow him to do such a thing.No matter how much Ivankov shouted, Kuma ignored him. He was now Pacifista PX-0.Kuma opened his mouth and fired a laser cannon. Luffy and Ivankov immediately dodged, and a huge crater, with power comparable to a missile, was blasted where they had just been.Luffy also recalled Kuma's last words when he sent him flying."We will never meet again. Goodbye."Only then did Luffy understand the meaning of that sentence.Following this, Kuma removed his gloves and began to unleash air cannons, sending all nearby pirates flying.Ivankov grew angry and began to counterattack Kuma. Ivankov's combat prowess surpassed that of a Pacifista, unilaterally suppressing Kuma, which gave Luffy room to continue his breakthrough.Now standing in Luffy's way was the World's Strongest Swordsman, Dracule Mihawk.Hawkeye held his black blade, his gaze sharp, aimed directly at Luffy."So, destiny, this darling of the new era, will his luck run out, or will he survive this black blade?"Facing Hawkeye, Luffy dared not be negligent, immediately activating Gear Second and using Moonwalk.Just as he was about to break through Hawkeye, Hawkeye swung his black blade, and a green sword energy accurately hit Luffy, intercepting him mid-flight.Although he was sent flying, Luffy still avoided a fatal injury. Jinbe appeared before Luffy again, helping to block Hawkeye."Fishman Karate: Arabesque Brick Fist!"Fist wind and sword energy intersected, blocking each other."Shark Skin Brick Fist!"Jinbe threw another punch. Hawkeye unleashed a fierce sword energy, and Jinbe couldn't withstand the blow, being sent flying and sinking into the sea.Hawkeye, still holding his black blade, walked towards Luffy again. Luffy activated Gear Second, preparing to use Gum-Gum Rocket.At that instant, Luffy perceived that if he threw that punch, his hands would definitely be severed. He had already begun to develop Observation Haki."You are quite calm."Hawkeye said, then unleashed a powerful, heavy, crescent-shaped slash.The crescent-shaped green sword energy was dodged by Luffy bending over, but the frozen tsunami ice glacier was horizontally cut in half by this slash.One slash cut through the glacier. This reminded Luke of his Tempest Kick: Mountain Splitter, which was still inferior compared to Hawkeye's.Seeing the glacier collapse, Luke used Moonwalk to jump to the other side, continuing to observe the situation below.At this moment, Buggy appeared and attacked Hawkeye.Hawkeye continuously slashed Buggy over a hundred times, cutting him into pieces. Thanks to his Devil Fruit ability, Buggy instantly regenerated.With Buggy's distraction, Luffy could continue to advance.Buggy only delayed Hawkeye for a few seconds, and Hawkeye caught up with Luffy again. At this point, Flower Sword Vista appeared.Flower Sword Vista had long wanted to fight Hawkeye, and he faced Hawkeye with full fighting spirit.Hawkeye and Vista exchanged blows, but in his mind, Hawkeye kept pondering. That Straw Hatpossessed a magical power, capable of turning people present into his allies one after another. Hawkeye understood then that on this great sea, that Straw Hat held the most terrifying power.Seeing Luffy about to arrive, Sengoku decided to implement Ace's execution plan ahead of schedule.Sengoku ordered his subordinates to cut off the signal from the visual Den Den Mushi. This war was initiated by the Marine and the World Government in the name of absolute justice, and victory must be achieved, no matter what means were employed. However, this was too stimulating for ordinary citizens."There is no need to inform the world of the tragedy that will unfold next. A few hours from now, all we need to tell the world is that we won, and those few words will be enough!" Sengoku declared.It was at this moment that a large number of Pacifistas appeared in the bay again.Approximately 50 Pacifistas, identical to Kuma, appeared and launched a counterattack under the leadership of Sentomaru."You bastards, I've been waiting impatiently! It's finally our turn to make an appearance!" Sentomaruroared.This was actually part of the Marine's battle plan: first, deliberately leaking the news of Ace's early execution to agitate the pirates, then the Marinewould retreat, luring the pirates into the bay, and finally using the human weapons to seal off the bay entrance, forming an encirclement.Whitebeard also had foresight, ordering his subordinates to destroy the surrounding warships, so that the pirates would not be encircled.Sengoku continued to command. Even if the left and right sides were defeated, they could still launch a vertical pincer attack, ordering the Marine to first eliminate the enemies outside the encirclement.In such a large-scale battlefield, combat power is important, but decision-making is even more crucial.Upon receiving the order, Sentomaru began to command the humanoid weapons to attack the pirates on the outer perimeter.The pirates on the outer perimeter were no match for the humanoid weapons. The humanoid weapons indiscriminately fired lasers, slaughtering the pirates on the outer perimeter.Encircled on the outside with no way to retreat, Whitebeard immediately ordered a full-scale charge.Sengoku also immediately gave the order for the Marine to retreat and shrink their defensive perimeter.Luke glanced at Sentomaru, feeling that the fat Sentomaru was a bit arrogant."You guys are itching for a fight, aren't you? Take down those humanoid weapons, I'll go deal with that big fatty!"Luke was also feeling a bit restless. Sentomaruprided himself on having the world's strongest defense, and Luke wanted to see if he could defend against lightning.As for Luffy's side, Luke wasn't worried, because his maternal uncle Kizaru had made his appearance.Just as Luffy was about to rush to the execution platform, Kizaru appeared before Luffy and delivered a light-speed kick towards him."Go back where you came from!"Kizaru, who could have easily killed Luffy, kicked Luffy into Jinbe's arms. He was still underpaid.Luffy rallied again, rushing towards Kizaru with Jinbe, Izo, and others.On the other side, Sengoku, who had intended to cut off the broadcast, discovered that another video feed was still connected, and he couldn't reach the communication room.At this moment, Buggy appeared before the only visual Den Den Mushi, with his makeup done and clothes on, and began his flashy live broadcast.Buggy, leading the prisoners, was live-streaming with the visual Den Den Mushi, which infuriated Sengoku, who immediately ordered the artillery to bombard them.However, the Den Den Mushi was in Buggy's group's hands, and Sengoku had no way to deal with them.
Chapter 240 The Unstoppable RebellionChapter 240: The Unstoppable BetrayalThe bay was a chaotic battleground, and Luke, along with Bullet, Shiliew, Redfield, and Ward, went outside the bay to deal with the Pacifista.Luke extended his right hand, and a Thunder Dragon flew out, piercing through ten Pacifista.Luke's thunder power was highly effective against technological constructs; their entire structure relied on circuits, and once those circuits were destroyed, they became nothing more than scrap metal.The four subordinates behind him were stunned. This was the first time Luke had displayed his strength in front of them, and it was incredibly powerful and terrifying.Bullet, eager to show his own strength, charged directly at a Pacifista and punched through its abdomen.Shiliew swung his Thunderstorm, a red light flashing, easily slicing through a Pacifista.Redfield, possessing powerful Observation Haki, swordsmanship, and martial arts, picked up an ordinary weapon from the ground and slowly walked towards a humanoid weapon.The humanoid weapon fired lasers and cannons, but it couldn't hit the slowly walking Redfield. He didn't even dodge; he had already sensed a safe path, ensuring he wouldn't be hit.Redfield approached the humanoid weapon and lightly thrust his sword, directly destroying the humanoid weapon's central circuit board, killing it instantly.As for Ward, he picked up a flintlock and then used his magnification ability to enlarge and lengthen the barrel by a hundredfold.After being magnified a hundredfold, the flintlock became a super cannon.Ward pulled the trigger, and the ammunition, as it flew out, was also magnified a hundredfold by Ward.A single Bullet directly blasted the humanoid weapon into smithereens.The humanoid weapons were unilaterally crushed by the Extreme Evil Legion led by Luke.Luke extended his right hand again, and another Thunder Dragon pierced through seven more humanoid weapons.Sentomaru finally couldn't hold back: "Luke, it's you again!"Sentomaru swung his large axe at Luke.Luke's right hand was covered in Armament Haki, and he caught Sentomaru's large axe with one hand.However, the force was much greater than Luke had imagined, causing the ice beneath his feet to shatter.Luke leaped into the air, landing in a safe spot.Electricity flickered in Luke's hand, and a lightning chain shot towards Sentomaru.However, Sentomaru neither dodged nor flinched. He stood there, holding his breath, his body covered in Armament Haki.The moment the lightning touched the Armament Haki, it was repelled.Luke scratched his head. Armament Haki being able to repel lightning was a bit strange."Heh heh, out of moves, aren't you? I'm the man with the strongest defense," Sentomaru said arrogantly."Whether you're the strongest or not, we'll know after a few cuts."Luke, holding his thunder god blade, flew towards Sentomaru and engaged him in close combat.Sentomaru's attacks were wide and powerful, which was convenient, as Luke didn't really understand any sword techniques either and also fought with wide, powerful, seemingly inexhaustible strength.Luke noticed that with each clash of weapons, Sentomaru's Haki weakened a bit.Luke's mouth curved upward. He moved quickly with lightning at his feet, delivering powerful, heavy slashes at Sentomaru.Sentomaru was momentarily overwhelmed. Although he also possessed Observation Haki, it was far inferior to his Armament Haki. He felt as if Luke was everywhere—left, right, front, back—and he even wondered if Luke could create clones.These were all afterimages left by Luke's incredibly fast movement speed.A few rounds of fighting left Sentomaru breathless. Luke seized the opportunity and cut a long bloody gash across Sentomaru's back.At the same time, Luke's blade was imbued with lightning, delivering a powerful electrical discharge along the wound."Ah!"A large amount of electric current suddenly surged into Sentomaru's body, beginning to wreak havoc within him.The powerful current paralyzed Sentomaru's body, causing him to involuntarily kneel on the ground, unable to move, and his body's Armament Haki also dissipated."Farewell, Sentomaru!"Luke's blade fell, severing Sentomaru's head.The humanoid weapons were already few in number under the attacks of Bullet and the others. Luke turned his gaze towards Whitebeard.Because next to Whitebeard, an unfamiliar figure had appeared.Luke had no impression of this guy. He was neither a Captain nor Squard, but just one of the many ordinary Captains who followed Whitebeard.Could it be that this guy was swayed by Akainu?Luke's heart skipped a beat. He had killed Squard, but Akainu had found someone else to turn.No wonder Akainu hadn't been seen for a while; he was busy plotting.Like a rolling river of history, there was always someone who would step forward and appear at that historical juncture. The person's name wasn't important; what mattered was that he did the same thing.Whitebeard had no idea that one of his family would betray him and was calmly conversing with him.However, the next second, that guy, holding a long sword, pierced Whitebeard's abdomen.This scene stunned all members of the Whitebeard Pirates.Everyone looked at Whitebeard. Marco and the others' minds went blank, unable to believe that this was done by one of their own.Akainu, not far away, revealed a sinister smile.Time seemed to stand still at this moment. Acetrembled with rage, while Marco, Jozu, Vista, and the others' hearts stopped.Whitebeard gasped for breath repeatedly.The prisoners used their Den Den Mushi to record Whitebeard being stabbed, and the people watching the screens in Sabaody Archipelago also held their breath."Whitebeard has been assassinated!" someone suddenly shouted.The crowd immediately erupted.On the battlefield, panic spread among the pirates.Luffy watched Whitebeard from afar, his eyes filled with disbelief: "Old man!""Who? Who assassinated him?""The one who assassinated him is Sleepy, a pirate Captain under Whitebeard's command, a pirate from the New World!"Marco roared in fury, transforming into a blue bird and flying over, shouting, "Sleepy!"Marco pinned Sleepy to the ground, questioning him angrily and confusedly: "Why did you do this?"At this moment, Sleepy had been brainwashed by Akainu and began to babble: "End this farce, Whitebeard! You've already colluded with the Marine. Your Whitebeard Pirates and Ace's lives will definitely be saved. They promised, didn't they!"The other members of the Whitebeard Pirates were greatly puzzled, not understanding what Sleepy was saying."Listen up, everyone! We've fallen into a trap! The Whitebeard Pirates are inside the bay, and we, your subordinate pirate crews, are outside. You're sacrificing the heads of us 43 Captains to save Ace's life! Your subordinate pirates will all be annihilated, and Whitebeard and Ace will be saved. You've colluded with Sengoku, haven't you!" Sleepy shouted.Whitebeard clutched his abdomen, blood trickling from the corner of his mouth, and looked at Sleepy.Suddenly, the subordinate pirates panicked and began to question Whitebeard."Pops, is what he's saying true?""Tell us it's not true, Pops!"