Chapter 280 Set Sail, Farewell Fishman IslandChapter 280: Setting Sail, Farewell Fish-Man IslandTowards the end of the banquet, Jinbe spoke a bit about the events of the past two years.Not long after the Marineford War ended, Sengokuresigned from his position as Fleet Admiral. Sengoku had intended to recommend Aokiji for the role, but more high-ranking government officials supported Akainu.Aokiji, who usually didn't care much about things, strongly opposed Akainu becoming Fleet Admiral. Thus, the two engaged in a fierce battle on Punk Hazard.Akainu was the victor, and he became the new Marine Fleet Admiral.Aokiji, unwilling to serve under Akainu, left the Marine. No one knows his whereabouts now.Another matter concerned Whitebeard; having become younger, he instantly became the strongest among the Four Emperors.During one voyage, the Whitebeard Pirates located Teach. The Blackbeard Pirates suffered heavy casualties, and Teach abandoned his crewmates and fled in a panic.It is said that Blackbeard's sanity is now somewhat questionable. Those who have seen Teach say he often emits inexplicable, foolish laughter. It's highly possible this fellow has developed a split personality.After hearing Jinbe's account, Luke, for some reason, felt a touch of sympathy for Blackbeard's plight. A generation's overlord reduced to such a state was rather lamentable. Or perhaps, he was faking it, after all, he was Blackbeard.With nothing else to do, Luke decided to visit the prison to check on the New Fishman Pirates.When he arrived at the prison and saw their appearance, Luke was too astonished to speak.The members of the New Fishman Pirates had all turned into old men, with white hair, gaunt figures, and had aged thirty to forty years in an instant.Hody Jones, in particular, was so old that all his teeth had fallen out.This was the consequence of consuming the stimulant, the result of exchanging life force for combat power.In their current state, walking was difficult, let alone escaping from prison. In a few more years, they would likely be in their graves.Leaving the prison, and after collecting some local specialties from Ryugu Palace, it was almost time to depart.The banquet ended, and the Straw Hat crew came to the vicinity of the Thousand Sunny.Hearing that the Straw Hat crew was leaving, the citizens all rushed to bid them farewell. The King, the princes, Shirahoshi, and the guards also hurried over.A large amount of supplies was loaded onto the Thousand Sunny, enough to last for one or two months."Lord Xiao, are you really leaving?" Shirahoshi clung to Luke, crying loudly."Don't cry, Shirahoshi. I'll give you something interesting."Luke took out a Barbie doll from his spatial ring. This was a Barbie doll he had previously appraised, possessing artificial intelligence. It could communicate and converse with people, play music, and even dance."So cute! Thank you, Lord Xiao.""Alright, stop crying. You really are a crybaby, aren't you?" Luke laughed heartily."I'm sorry, I won't be a crybaby anymore," she said, though still sniffling.Seeing Shirahoshi cry, Sanji was ecstatic: "The beautiful mermaid princess is shedding tears for our departure! I'd stay here for another year!"Brook picked up his guitar and began to play and sing impromptu; besides being terrible, everything else was fine.The Right Minister gave Nami a Log Pose for the New World. One Log Pose alone is not enough to navigate the New World.This Log Pose had three dials, each containing a pointer.In the first half of the Grand Line, one relies on the Log Pose to record the magnetic field of the next island. However, in the latter half, due to changes in ocean currents and climate, even the most trusted magnetic fields can change, and some islands' magnetic fields might disappear entirely.Relying on a single pointer is insufficient. With three pointers, each recording the magnetic fields of different islands, one can choose a route from these three based on intuition. Different choices lead to different adventures.The more violently a pointer shakes, the higher the danger level of the island it points to, meaning that abnormal events on the island have already affected the magnetic field.Upon hearing the Right Minister's explanation, everyone felt a sense of dread. Luffy also overheard it.For Luffy, he would undoubtedly choose the route where the pointer shook most violently, which would be the most dangerous route."Quick, destroy that Log Pose!" Usopp exclaimed."Let me see."It was too late; Luffy had already leaned in front of Nami."Oh no!" Usopp cried out, declaring it was over.Luffy glanced at the three pointers: "Wow, the island pointed to by the violently shaking pointer in the center seems really interesting!"Luffy's words were like the devil's whisper to Nami."Luffy, shut up! I'm deciding the route next!" Namigrabbed Luffy by the neck and shook him repeatedly."What are you talking about, you idiot? I'm the Captain!" Luffy said."Please, Captain, listen to the navigator's opinion!" Usopp and Chopper collectively advised.But how could that possibly change Luffy's mind?"Alright, let's go!" Luffy shouted."I'm going to help repair the factory. I don't need to be guided, right?" Hachi asked."It's fine. The upcoming adventure will be very interesting," Luffy said, hands on his hips, full of vigor."Everyone, you must come back again!" The mermaid sisters collectively said.Sanji excitedly yelled: "My All Blue! We will definitely come back!""What a shallow dream," Zoro scoffed.The Third Prince said, "The next time we meet, we will surely be leading the strongest army of the deep sea!"The Second Prince said, "That's right, as glorious as the legendary Neptune Knight."Jinbe stood not far away, watching everyone.Luffy and Jinbe exchanged glances, both understanding the unspoken meaning."Goodbye, Jinbe. Come over once you've finished dealing with Fish-Man Island's matters," Lukewaved his hand."Mm," Jinbe nodded."Alright, hoist the sails, set sail!" Luffy happily jumped into the air.Franky steered the ship, heading out of Fish-Man Island.The citizens shouted loudly: "Come back anytime for snacks and meat!""I've grown to like humans, and the tanuki and robots too!""Take care, Luffy and everyone!" Camie waved."Come back for takoyaki!" Hachi shouted."I love you all!" Pappag said.After sailing only a few hundred meters, Shirahoshicaught up and grabbed onto the Thousand Sunny."One day, if we can meet again, I definitely won't be that crybaby anymore. You must take me for a fun walk!" Shirahoshi said, sniffling."That's right, you've never left the sea! Alright, no problem! Next time we meet, I'll take you!" Luffysaid, patting his chest.The crew members smiled at Shirahoshi.Hearing this, Shirahoshi was also very happy: "Then we have a promise."Shirahoshi extended her index finger, and Luffy and Shirahoshi's index fingers touched: "No problem, leave it to me.""A promise must be protected with one's life, Shirahoshi. I want to make a promise with you too." Luke placed his hand on top."Me too!" Nami extended her right hand."Then I'll join in too.""And me.""Of course, me too.""With so many promises, it should be fine, right?" Brook said."It's a promise!" Everyone said together.
Chapter 281 Z's WillChapter 281: Zephyr's WillThe ship left Fish-Man Island, finally rising slowly towards the New World, the latter half of the Grand Line.The surrounding light grew brighter and brighter, and everyone looked up with anticipation, eager to catch a glimpse of the latter half of the Grand Line.As everyone counted down to 1, the Sunny Go leaped out of the water, appearing in the waters of the New World.They immediately encountered a fierce storm, with dark clouds, lightning, thunder, wind, rain, and turbulent waves.However, such a storm was child's play for the Sunny Go."Activate the electric jet system!"Franky pressed the button, and the Sunny Go began to accelerate rapidly through the storm."Woo-hoo-hoo, let's go!" Luffy stood at the bow, incredibly excited."The weather is terrible!""The sky is filled with thunder and rain.""The wind is a raging gale.""The sea is turbulent.""The log pose is off course."Everyone chattered, expressing their joy at entering the New World.Using the electric system, the Sunny Go quickly sailed out of the storm zone, and the weather then turned into a scorching hot mode.The intense sunlight shone on the deck, making everyone sweat profusely.Fortunately, they had a refrigerator, and everyone held ice cream or iced drinks."It's hard to imagine what it would be like without a refrigerator," Sanji said."So hot," Chopper said, sitting in front of an electric fan.This area is still not suitable; continue to accelerate.After much effort, they finally reached a warm sea area, and only then did the ship slow down.Sanji brought out the prepared meal, and everyone sat around on the deck, happily eating and drinking, while Brook played his guitar.They thought they could finish their meal peacefully in this area, but then they smelled a foul odor.The smell was mixed with sulfur, and Luke looked up to see a cloud of volcanic ash flying towards them, making the sky hazy."Volcanic ash?"Luffy took a bite of meat, but it was covered in volcanic ash, making it taste terrible."Hey Usopp, did you spray pesticide?" Luffy asked."Idiot, look up at the sky, it's volcanic ash!""It's snow!" Chopper said innocently.Volcanic ash indicates that there has been a volcanic eruption nearby.Huge volcanic ash flew across the sky, and the sky darkened again; it truly is the New World, there's never a moment to relax.Chopper felt very uncomfortable at this time, as volcanic ash had gotten into his fur."Let's all take a bath together later," Robinsuggested.Upon hearing Robin mention bathing, Sanji and Brook became interested, looking at Robin with expectant eyes; these two perverts might be up to something unspeakable again."Although today isn't a good day for a bath, I still need one, I feel so uncomfortable," Chopper said, rubbing his eyes."Please let me bathe with you, may I?" Brookpleaded."No," Robin flatly refused.Looking at the volcanic ash, Nami mused, "The log pose pointing in the direction the volcanic ash is coming from is shaking constantly, moving very strangely, like a lost child.""A lost child?" Franky said, surprised."For example, if the recent large volcanic eruption destroyed an entire island.""How is that possible?""This is the New World, you know."Sanji brought a cup of brewed tea to Nami: "Disappear before Miss Nami's beautiful figure, you cherry blossom robot."Nami took a sip of tea: "In any case, we need to bypass the island that this log pose is pointing to. Choosing a safe route and protecting the lives of the crew is my duty as a navigator."At this moment, Luffy's head appeared from somewhere: "Hey, this log pose is shaking so much, it looks really interesting, let's go there, I smell adventure."Then Luffy shouted to his crew: "The route has been decided, get ready."Nami and Usopp looked helpless, stuck with such a Captain.And so, they turned the ship around and headed towards the route where the log pose was shaking the most violently.They had only been sailing for less than ten minutes when they encountered a castaway at sea.Luke looked closely and exclaimed, "Good heavens, isn't that Teacher Zephyr?"Speaking of Zephyr, he has a great background; he was a former Admiral of Marineford, and also the teacher of Akainu, Kizaru, and Aokiji.Throughout his life, he fought countless pirates but never killed a single enemy, earning him the title "Non-Killing" former Admiral of Marineford. After learning that the pirate who had harmed many of his students became one of the Seven Warlords of the Sea, he began to deeply resent the Marine and formed the "NEO Marine." He did not hesitate to steal the Dyna Stones, attempting to destroy all pirates in the New World. Later, due to the obstruction of the Straw Hat, and the full assault of the Marine led by Kizaru, he ultimately died on the battlefield."There's someone, go save him immediately!"Luffy stretched out his arm and grabbed Zephyr, but Luffy felt completely powerless because he touched Zephyr's Sea Stone mechanical arm.With everyone's combined effort, Zephyr was pulled onto the Sunny Go."How is he, is he still alive?" Usopp asked.Chopper diagnosed him with a stethoscope: "Although his heart and lungs are weak, he has only fainted and is not in life-threatening danger.""We didn't pick up another troublesome guy, did we? With his rough muscles covered in wounds, and that thing attached to his right hand, he doesn't look like an ordinary person," Nami said cautiously."He is indeed not an ordinary person, he is Zephyr, the former Admiral of Marineford," Luke said."Former Admiral!?"Everyone gasped in surprise; Usopp was so scared that he hid behind Luke, and Chopper hugged Zoro's calf.Luke described Zephyr's early life to everyone, giving them a general understanding of Zephyr's situation."He's actually the teacher of the three MarineAdmirals, so he must be incredibly powerful!" Usopp exclaimed."I knew Luffy wouldn't pick up anything good, quickly throw him off the ship!" Nami said, hands on her hips."The teacher of an Admiral, how terrifying!" Brooksaid."What do we do, the Admiral's teacher is here, the Admirals are already scary enough!" Usopp and Chopper ran back and forth on the deck.Robin touched the mechanical arm: "It is indeed made of Sea Stone. That's why Luffy lost his strength when he grabbed it."Luke said: "To make a weapon out of such a thing, specifically to deal with Devil Fruit users, this guy deeply hates pirates. When he wakes up, a battle will be inevitable.""Then let's just throw him back," Zoro suggested.Suddenly, Chopper stopped: "But, I am a doctor, I cannot just stand by and watch someone die.""If he's an enemy, I'll punch him away!" Luffy said confidently.Nami slapped her forehead, feeling helpless: "That's an Admiral's master! Xiao, if something happens later, please take me and run away first.""Me too, take me too," Usopp said, tugging Luke's clothes.
Chapter 282 Black Arm ZefaChapter 282: Black Arm ZephyrZephyr was sent to Chopper's medical room for treatment.After about an hour, Zephyr woke up.Everyone outside was on high alert; a power of Admiral-level was inside, so there was no room for complacency."You drifted here from the sea, do you remember?" Chopper asked."I remember. Thank you for the timely treatment. It seems I've been given a new lease on life, Doctor," Zephyr said in a friendly tone."My name is Chopper.""Doctor Chopper, you are an excellent physician," Zephyr praised."Even if you praise me, I won't be happy, you jerk!" Chopper was once again flattered.Then Zephyr looked at Luffy: "You must be the Captain of this ship."Luffy nodded: "You actually knew.""Of course, I've watched many young people grow up; I'm good at seeing through others.""Is that so? Then, old man, what do you plan to do? Do you want us to give you a ride?" Luffy asked with a smile."I have a Vivre Card on me; my companions should find me soon.""Old man, your weapon is so cool," Luffy said."After my right arm was severed by some pirate scoundrel, a crazy Marine scientist attached this. Its Sea Stone claws can steal an opponent's strength, and with fierce firepower, it can annihilate them in one go. Doctor Chopper, I don't recommend something so heavy.""Amazing!" Chopper's eyes lit up.Luffy's expression suddenly turned serious: "I heard that you really dislike pirates, old man. If you're a Marine, then our relationship could be troublesome, because we are pirates.""Is that so, you are pirates?" Zephyr's friendly face disappeared, replaced by a grim expression.Zephyr stood up and, without a word, punched Luffy, sending him flying. His resentment towards pirates was clearly profound."As Luke said, we should have just thrown this guy into the sea!" Sanji burst in.Zoro held his sword hilt, watching Zephyr warily.Zephyr stood there and asked, "Why are you a pirate?"Luffy wiped the blood from the corner of his mouth, stood up, and proudly declared, "To become the Pirate King!""The Pirate King, eh?"Hearing this, Zephyr glanced at Luffy's Straw Hatand then attacked Luffy again.Luffy quickly jumped to dodge, but a large hole was smashed into the deck.Luke's fingertips sparkled with electricity: "If this continues, I'm afraid the ship will be destroyed by you, Mr. Zephyr."A bolt of electricity passed through Zephyr's heart, causing his heart to stop.Zephyr clutched his heart, half-kneeling on the ground: "What did you just do?""I am the Thunder Lord, and I specialize in electrotherapy. I think you'll need several treatments to recover. What do you say, Mr. Zephyr?" Lukeraised an eyebrow at Zephyr."Ah!" Zephyr shouted, stood up, and swung his massive mechanical arm.Zoro's sword flashed, blocking Zephyr's attack and deflecting it.Luke placed his palm on Zephyr's chest, starting a major electrotherapy session."Ah!"Zephyr's heart stopped again, his whole body paralyzed, and his hair stood on end.Zephyr gasped for air, watching Luke warily. If that guy administered a few more electrotherapy sessions, his heart might burst.Just then, a female voice came from outside."I am Ain, Vice Admiral of the Neo Marines. This pirate ship has been surrounded by our Neo Marines. Please surrender, or your lives will be forfeit!"Ain? Luke thought for a moment. It was that woman... the new Marine recruit Zephyr trained when he was an Admiral, one of the survivors of the Devil Fruit user attack, and someone who held Zephyr in great respect.She was a user of the Reverse-Reverse Fruit and a female swordswoman. She could make anyone she touched regress 12 years in age. To undo the effect, the Devil Fruit user had to be defeated.Franky shouted: "What kind of pirate doesn't resist!"With that, he charged forward, only to be met by another person named Binz, a user of the Grow-Grow Fruit.This Devil Fruit allowed surrounding plants to grow rapidly and be controlled, a sort of weaker version of Admiral Aramaki's Forest-Forest Fruit.Binz used growing vines to bind Franky and introduced his Devil Fruit ability to Franky.Inside the room, Zephyr stood up again and fought fiercely with everyone.As expected of the teacher of the three Admirals, this time he covered his entire body with Armament Haki, rendering Luke's electric current almost ineffective.Since that was the case, Luke pulled out the Hero's Sword and began to clash with Zephyr.In the past two years, under Rayleigh's guidance, Luke's swordsmanship had greatly improved.Luke's tricky swordplay greatly astonished Zephyr, who couldn't believe there was such a formidable pirate."I remember now! You're the guy who caused chaos during the Marineford War! You're the one who made Whitebeard young again, aren't you!" Zephyrsaid."You're only remembering now, you're old. You should just retire and live a carefree life; stop getting involved in all this nonsense."A cold light flashed in Luke's hand, forcing Zephyrback several steps. Zephyr narrowly dodged the sword, almost meeting his demise."Since you have the ability to restore youth, can you make me young again? I might consider letting you go," Zephyr said."Let's not discuss who's letting whom go for now. My ability can only be used once. Why don't you ask your student, Ain, to restore your youth? She's a Reverse-Reverse Fruit user.""That's just a temporary change and won't bring much improvement to my strength. The ability's restrictions will be lifted once Ain is weakened or faints.""Let's discuss another topic. I think you should come up with a reason for us to let you go," Luke said."Let me go? Do you really think you can defeat me, you naive youngster!"Zephyr didn't believe he would lose. He covered himself with Armament Haki again and attacked everyone.At this point, Sanji had burst forth with power, his body also covered in Armament Haki, and he clashed with Zephyr.After powering up, Sanji's strength, speed, and defense had all greatly increased, forcing Zephyr to retreat repeatedly.Zephyr was incredibly shocked. How could all these guys be so fierce? Was he getting old?Seeing Sanji's immense improvement, Zoro was not to be outdone. He unleashed his Three-Sword Style, relentlessly slashing at Zephyr.Compared to Sanji's improvement in the Okama Kingdom, Zoro had practiced steadily under Hawkeye's guidance for two years, so his rate of improvement wasn't as broken as Sanji's.Luffy also joined the battle. Seeing Sanji's great progress, he was happy but also resolved to train harder.The four main combatants of the Straw Hat Crewcornered Zephyr.With a flying kick from Sanji, a heavy punch from Luffy, a "Trouble Wind" from Zoro, and an electrotherapy session from Luke, Zephyr finally couldn't hold on and collapsed to the ground."Hehe, we won," Luffy said.Zoro sheathed his long swords: "We could have easily defeated him even without the cook.""What are you saying, moss-head? Can't you see how strong I am now? I feel like you're no longer my match!" Sanji retorted."What!? Swirly-brow, let's have a match!" Zoro's eyebrow twitched.
Chapter 283: Fooling, and then FoolingChapter 283: Fooling, and Fooling AgainLuke walked out of his room, where Zephyr's two disciples were acting arrogantly.Luke's target was Ain; her ability was somewhat of a bug, so he had to subdue her quickly.With a flash, Luke appeared before Ain and knocked her unconscious with a hand chop.As for Binz, Zoro cut down his vegetation with a flurry of blades, and then Sanji kicked him unconscious.The battle ended quickly. The new Marines, seeing their leader and two Admirals subdued, watched from a distance, not daring to make a move.Zephyr was old now; he couldn't even defeat Kizaru, let alone face Luke and the others. Luke, at least, could go back and forth with Kizaru.He put Sea Stone handcuffs on Ain and Binz and tied them to the mast on the deck. As for Zephyr, he had already passed out, with Sanji and Zoroguarding him.When he woke up, if he remained stubborn and resisted, Luke wouldn't mind putting him in the Demon Suppressing Tower."Let me go."Ain, now awake, struggled continuously.Binz said, "Do you know who our Teacher Z is?""Former Marine Admiral Zephyr, we know, yes." Nami waved her clima-tact, saying nonchalantly.Both were a little surprised."Since you know, why haven't you let us go?" Binzasked.Sanji took a puff from his cigarette: "I suspect your brains aren't working too well. Your teacher has already been defeated by us.""What?!""Impossible!"The two continued to argue back and forth, refusing to believe the facts.Until they saw Zephyr, covered in wounds, on the bed."Teacher!""Teacher!"The two, wearing Sea Stone handcuffs, knelt by the bed, unable to hold back their tears."What are you crying about? He's not dead." Lukesaid.Hearing this, the two sighed in relief."But he won't live much longer, right, Chopper?" Luke winked at Chopper, signaling him to lie.But Chopper, being very honest, said, "He only has some superficial injuries. With my medical skills, I can definitely cure him. Leave it to me."Luke was speechless; Chopper was too straightforward.Luke immediately continued, "Thanks to our Chopper's excellent medical skills, but to cure him, it will require a high medical fee: 500 million Berries. I wonder if you can afford it.""I won't charge~~" Chopper was about to speak but was covered by Luke's hand."Don't talk, follow my gaze." Luke whispered. Chopper nodded and covered his own mouth."We don't have that much money." Ain said uneasily."There's no free lunch in the world. As long as you two sign this contract, we'll treat Zephyr for free."Luke pulled out the Legion Contract, ready to trick two more people into joining the Legion.Seeing Luke pull out the contract, Nami knew it wasn't good news.Sanji stood in front of Ain: "Absolutely not! I won't allow you to lay a hand on a lady!""It's just signing a Legion Contract." Luke shrugged.Robin smiled slightly: "Xiao has another bad idea."Nami sighed: "I wonder when he will fall into depravity."Luke held the contract and waved it in front of Ain and Binz. Both saw the contents.Joining a Legion and abiding by its rules was just a piece of paper."To save Teacher Zephyr, I am willing to sign." Ain said."I'll sign too." Binz said."No, absolutely not!" Sanji tried to stop them.Zoro, holding his long sword, leaned nearby, dozing off; he couldn't be bothered with these matters.Luffy was already standing at the bow, gazing at the distant volcano. For him, adventure was more appealing."Sanji, move aside. Both of them have agreed. What right do you have to refuse on their behalf?""That Binz can sign whatever he wants, but the beautiful Ms. Ain absolutely cannot! I am the eternal flower-protecting knight!" Sanji pointed to the sky with one hand, radiating light.Just as Sanji was posing, Luke handed the contract to Ain, and Ain silently signed her name."Nani!?"Sanji, realizing what happened, immediately burst into a rage, then was knocked out by a bolt of electricity from Nami."No fighting on the ship." Nami said.Sanji lay on the ground, smoking, looking at the gloomy sky, and silently lit a cigarette."I want to become stronger, and one day I will act on behalf of heaven and take down that bastard Xiao." Sanji said."Go, Sanji." Luke said from the side.After Ain signed the contract, Binz also signed. Now, the First Division had two more capable generals.Luke immediately unlocked their Sea Stonehandcuffs: "From now on, you're our own people. You still have several teammates. Once your teacher wakes up, you can go and meet up with the others in the Legion."Ain and Binz nodded, but in their hearts, they thought, 'You can say whatever you want now, but once Teacher wakes up, we'll run away. Who cares what you say then?'Luke smiled slightly. With the contract signed, they were the Legion's people in life and its souls in death. They couldn't leave even if they wanted to.Zephyr hadn't woken up yet, so Luke asked Ain about the volcanic eruption.The reason was that Zephyr had used Exploding Rock to destroy that island, causing the volcano to erupt."What? I thought there would be something interesting."After learning it was a destroyed island, Luffy lost interest in exploring it."Since that's the case, where's the nearest town? There's too much volcanic ash, we need to go to town to buy some new clothes." Luke said."I know, there's a bustling town not far from here that also has a sea train." Ain said.Speaking of the sea train, everyone thought of the one in Water Seven. With electric propulsion, they could follow the train tracks directly to that prosperous island town."Let's go, for meat, meat!" Luffy shouted, raising his arms."Wait, officer, what should we do?"Several new-generation Marine warships were docked near the Thousand Sunny, now without a leader."You wait on a nearby island. When Teacher and I return, don't worry, it'll be fine." Ain said."Understood!" The new-generation Marines sailed away in their warships.The Thousand Sunny sailed in the direction Ain indicated and soon saw the sea railway."You can reach it by following this track." Ain smiled slightly.After Ain smiled, her expression turned grim. She was acting now, gaining everyone's trust, all to wait for Teacher Zephyr to wake up and take him away."Activate the electric propulsion system!" Frankypressed the switch."Hold on tight!" Luke warned.The Straw Hat Crew immediately grabbed the mast, but Ain and Binz didn't understand why.Then the Thousand Sunny accelerated rapidly, and the two who hadn't grabbed the mast nearly flew off, but luckily, Luffy caught them from mid-air.Seeing such a fast pirate ship, the two were incredibly shocked; even the fastest warship wasn't this quick.
Chapter 284 Hot SpringChapter 284: Hot SpringsA Sea Train passed on the sea tracks, with the Thousand Sunny following alongside.The people on the train looked at the Thousand Sunny in surprise."Mama, look, that ship is as fast as the train!" a little girl exclaimed."What nonsense are you talking about? How could a ship be faster than a Sea Train?"Mama shook her head, then glanced out the window."What a fast ship!" Mama exclaimed.The people on the train began waving at the Thousand Sunny, and Luffy, sitting at the bow, also waved back at the passengers."Haha, they're so fun!" Luffy said happily.Franky said, "They've never seen such a fast ship before, it's super surprising!"The train and the ship traveled one after the other for an hour, arriving at a bustling port city nearby.The city was built against a mountain, and from a distance, exquisite houses stretched from bottom to top. At the highest peak of the mountain was a volcano, emitting faint smoke.Because of the volcano, hot springs had become the city's iconic tourist attraction.The streets were bustling with people, and bathhouse signs were visible everywhere."I feel sticky all over; a hot spring bath would be a good choice," Robin said."Miss Robin, please allow me to join you in the hot springs!" Brook said."Me too, Robin-nee!" Sanji was already spinning."I refuse," Robin said.Brook shook his head in disappointment: "Then I'll go pick out new clothes first."Upon disembarking, everyone temporarily dispersed.Nami, Robin, Usopp, and Chopper went together, while Luffy, Zoro, Sanji, and Brook went together.After everyone left, only Luke, Ann, Binz, and the unconscious Zephyr remained on the ship.Luke sat there idly, waiting for Zephyr to wake up so he could have a good discussion with him and, incidentally, get him to sign the Legion contract.Having Zephyr join the Legion would definitely boost its strength again, but Zephyr detested evil, so getting him to join would be no easy task.Luke glanced at Ann and Binz, and an idea came to him."Why aren't you going to the hot springs with your companions?" Ann asked, puzzled."I'll go later. Before that, I need you two to help me put on a show," Luke said."A show?" Ann and Binz looked at Luke, confused."Yes, a show."Luke then pulled out the Demon Binding Rope and Sea Stone, tying them up again and taping their mouths shut to prevent them from speaking."Mmm~mm~" The two struggled continuously, but it was no use.Just like that, after about five minutes, Zephyr finally woke up.Zephyr woke up, looked around in confusion, and suddenly saw his two beloved disciples, Ann and Binz, in Luke's hands.Luke held his long sword to Ann's neck: "Zephyr, you're finally awake!""Let Ann and Binz go!"Zephyr stood up in a rage."Don't move, swords have no eyes," Lukethreatened.Zephyr didn't dare to act rashly. He cared deeply for his students and didn't want to experience another student dying before his eyes."What do you want?" Zephyr asked through gritted teeth."Sign this contract, and I'll let them go," Luke said, taking out the Legion contract."A contract?"Zephyr looked at the contract before him, which listed several rules: obey the superior's commands, and companions are not allowed to harm each other."Just a piece of paper," Zephyr snorted lightly."Sign or not sign?""What's there to be afraid of? I doubt you'll let my two students go even if I sign the contract.""You can take a gamble. Anyway, you think signing the contract means nothing.""Hmph!"Zephyr picked up the pen and wrote his name on the Legion contract.A flash of light, and the contract was signed.Luke let out a sigh of relief, retracted the Hero's Sword, then unlocked Ann and Binz's Sea Stonehandcuffs, retrieved the Demon Binding Rope, and tore off the tape from their mouths."Teacher!""Teacher!"The two, now free, rushed towards Zephyr. Zephyrpatted their backs, reassuring them that they were fine.Zephyr gave Luke a meaningful look: "It's rare to see a pirate who lets people go so easily.""It's just that you think it's simple. This contract isn't just a verbal agreement; from now on, all three of you are my subordinates, members of the Straw Hat Pirates' First Division."Zephyr smiled, seeing such a naive and innocent pirate for the first time.Luke smiled faintly: "So, what do you plan to do now?"Zephyr revealed his large mechanical arm: "All pirates, just die!"With that, Zephyr punched towards Luke.Luke stood there motionless. Zephyr was a bit confused, wondering if this guy was truly foolish or scared witless, but he wouldn't miss this good opportunity.Just as the heavy mechanical punch was about to hit Luke, Zephyr realized that his surroundings instantly changed, becoming a world of blood.He himself was tied to a cross, and a monk walked over, holding a wooden fish and constantly striking it."Where is this?"Zephyr looked around; it was a scene of purgatory.Next, a huge demon, holding a whip, walked over and whipped Zephyr's body hard."You violated the rule of attacking a companion! You will be whipped until you acknowledge your mistake!"The demon let out a low growl."Ah!~~" Zephyr cried out in pain, but no one responded.Only then did Zephyr realize that the contract was not as simple as he had imagined.Just like that, Zephyr spent two years in the bloody world and finally surrendered."I was wrong, I was truly wrong!"The demon nodded: "This time you have truly repented; you may leave."The surroundings changed, and Zephyr reappeared on the Thousand Sunny.For Luke and Zephyr's two students, it was only a matter of a few seconds.Ann and Binz were still wondering why their teacher had suddenly disappeared, and then, in the next second, he reappeared.However, their teacher's mental state seemed off. Before he disappeared, he was full of vigor and his eyes shone, but now Zephyr was gaunt, his eyes dull, and his mind was filled with the sound of monks chanting scriptures."Teacher Zephyr!""Teacher!"Zephyr suddenly hugged his two students and burst into tears, which left Ann and Binz at a loss."Mr. Zephyr, so what is your decision now?" Lukeasked."You make the decision," Zephyr said."Let's go, hot springs!" Luke waved his hand, leading the group towards the town.Luke led the group to the hot springs. Since coming to this world, he hadn't experienced a genuine volcanic hot spring, and he definitely wanted to feel it today."Please come in, gentlemen!" the owner greeted them warmly.Luke, Zephyr, and Binz went to the men's hot spring, while Ann went to the ladies' hot spring.After entering the hot spring, lying in the large hot spring room, he felt his whole body being healed."This is so relaxing," Luke thought, wanting to lie there forever, letting the hot spring nourish his entire body.Luffy, Zoro, Brook, and Sanji were also there."Xiao, why are you just getting here? We've been soaking for ten minutes!" Luffy greeted him.Brook exclaimed: "It's permeated my bones; the fatigue has all dissipated.""Zephyr, he's here too!" Sanji said cautiously."It's fine, he's a friend now. Relax and enjoy the hot springs," Luke said, lying comfortably in the hot spring, feeling the volcano's warmth.
Chapter 285 Punk HazardChapter 285 Punk HazardEveryone was relaxing in the hot spring when a tall man walked in from outside.He had explosive hair, a scorched right arm, and a missing left leg."Aokiji!" Everyone was shocked to see Aokiji arrive.Only Brook was oblivious; he had never seen Admiral Aokiji before."Why is everyone panicking? Who is this?""He's Marine Headquarters Admiral Aokiji," Luffysaid."Admiral!" Brook was dumbfounded.However, Aokiji showed no intention of attacking. He greeted everyone: "Yo, long time no see."Everyone except Luke and Zephyr was on high alert."I'm not a Marine anymore, so I won't be capturing you. You should know that," Aokiji said lazily."Then who exactly are you?""Who am I... Although I don't like being asked that by a skeleton, having resigned from my Admiralposition, am I a comrade of justice? No, what am I?" Aokiji couldn't answer clearly himself."Who knows!" Sanji said, exasperated."Anyway, that's how it is. I'm not meddling in your affairs right now. I just want to enjoy a good hot spring bath. But what puzzles me is, Teacher Zephyr, why are you here?" Aokiji looked at Zephyr.Zephyr was a bit embarrassed to speak for a moment; he didn't want to tell Aokiji about his defeat."I also came here to take a hot spring bath. Do you have a problem with that?" Zephyr raised an eyebrow."A rare sight, Teacher Zephyr. If I'm not mistaken, you blew up an island with Dyna Stones this morning. Aren't you going to complete the rest of your plan?"Aokiji came here because he happened to see the Straw Hat. He hadn't expected Teacher Zephyr to be here.Luke said, "He won't be doing such foolish things anymore."Zephyr retorted, "No, as long as those few islands are blown up, the magma will engulf the New World. All pirates will have nowhere to escape then. I must complete this plan!"Aokiji roughly understood the situation: "It seems Teacher must have been captured by the Straw Hat. This forces me to re-evaluate your crew's combat power. So now, are you going to help Teacher complete his plan?"Luffy said, "How could we? We would never do something like blowing up the New World!""Is he a Marine or a Devil?" Sanji grumbled.Zephyr shouted, "There's one island left! After blowing it up, everything will be successful!"Aokiji sighed, "How do you plan to handle this?""It's simple, Zephyr. I order you, in the name of the Legion Commander, to go to Dressrosa, take Ain and Binz, and rendezvous with the members of the Nine Heavens Pirate Group," Luke said.Luke directly gave Zephyr an order; once a contract was signed, one had to obey superior instructions.Aokiji looked at Luke in confusion: "What's the meaning of such an order?""You'll see."Immediately after, Zephyr was very unconvinced. Appearing before his student in such a state made him lose face."What a joke! How could I possibly listen to you!"As soon as he finished speaking, Zephyrdisappeared, entering the bloody illusion again.It's unclear how much time passed, but outside, it was only a few seconds. Everyone saw Zephyrdisappear and then reappear.Zephyr knelt on the ground: "I'll go now."Everyone except Luke was shocked."Teacher Zephyr..." Aokiji murmured."Don't call me Teacher. I'm not your Teacher now. I'm leaving, going to Dressrosa."With that, Zephyr picked up a bath towel and walked out without looking back.Luffy scratched his head: "This old man is really strange.""Hey Xiao, what did you do?" Sanji asked."I won't tell you." Luke smiled mysteriously, making Sanji so angry he wanted to hit him."Xiao, although I don't know what you did, you've handled a very big problem," Aokiji said."Why did you come to find us? Is it because of Zephyr?" Luke asked."Yes, I originally wanted to warn you, but now it seems unnecessary. Since that's the case, I'll just enjoy my bath in peace."Aokiji lay in the bath, covering his eyes with a towel, closing them to rest and no longer speaking.Everyone also comfortably lay in the bath, relieving their physical and mental fatigue. Now that they were not in an opposing camp with Aokiji, they felt much more at ease.After the hot spring, everyone came to the street and saw Nami and the others returning from shopping."Everyone, I bought a lot of clothes!" Nami said happily.Usopp bought many repair and processing parts, Chopper carried several large bags of fruit, and Robin bought several books."Let's go!" Luffy said excitedly.Everyone returned to the ship and set sail again."Huh!? Where are those guys?" Nami asked."Luke sent them away. We just ran into Aokiji," Sanjisaid."Aokiji!" Nami and the others were shocked when they heard this."He's no longer a Marine Admiral now and has no hostility towards us. Let's set off for the next island," Luke said.Nami let out a long sigh of relief. The powerful shadow from Aokiji's first appearance was still vivid in her memory.Nami glanced at the log pose. One of the pointers was constantly jumping, scaring Nami into immediately covering that pointer.As luck would have it, Luffy still saw it. Luffy pried open Nami's fingers and said happily, "This place looks interesting!""Luffy!~~" Nami and Usopp were completely defeated.Although Nami was speechless, as long as the Captain gave the order, as the navigator, she had to safely guide the crew to that place."Set sail!"Filled with the excitement of adventure, everyone sailed away from the bustling volcanic town.After about two days of sailing, the sky suddenly flashed with lightning and thundered, and heavy rain began to fall.In the strong winds and heavy rain, everyone saw a giant burning island."It's not another volcanic eruption, is it!" Usopp said.Chopper sniffed: "There's no smell of volcanic ash.""If there's no volcanic eruption, then how did those raging flames appear?" Sanji looked at the burning island in confusion."If you read more books and news instead of just looking at perverted books, you wouldn't be so ignorant, would you? That island is called Punk Hazard, the place where Akainu and Aokiji fought for ten days and ten nights. One half you see is flames, the other half is glaciers, caused by their Devil Fruit abilities," Luke said with a smirk."What's with that smirk? Do you think knowing this is so amazing, you bastard Xiao? How dare you look down on me!"Luke's sudden crooked smirk infuriated Sanji.Sanji kicked out, but Luke blocked it with one hand, and the two began to exchange blows.With two heavy punches from Nami, the two finally calmed down.Nami said, "None of the three pointers point to that island. This is too abnormal!"Luffy said happily, "But we've already seen it. The log pose doesn't matter. An island of ice and fire, we're landing no matter what!"
Chapter 286 Landing on the Burning IslandChapter 286: Landing on the Burning IslandApproaching the Burning Island, many bones floated nearby.Then, everyone suddenly heard crying; it was the Transponder Snail on the ship, which usually only happens during emergency signals.The reliability of an emergency signal was fifty-fifty; there was a 50% chance it was a Marine trap, and answering it would expose their signal range if it was tapped.Although Robin had warned them in advance, before she could finish speaking, Luffy picked up the Transponder Snail."Hello, my name is Monkey D. Luffy, and I'm the man who will become the Pirate King!"These were the first words Luffy said after picking up the distress call.Luke almost burst out laughing beside him. As expected of Luffy, he was greatly admired.Usopp slapped his forehead directly: "Too fast, too much nonsense!"A voice came from the Transponder Snail: "Help, it's so cold. Are you the boss?""No, I'm not your boss. Is it very cold where you are?""My companions have all been cut down, and I'm about to be killed by a samurai.""A samurai?" Zoro seemed interested.Mentioning samurai reminded Luke of Kin'emon and Momonosuke.Among One Piece fans, a saying often circulated: Momonosuke must die. Luke wondered if he should punish that brat.Luffy asked, "What's your name, and where are you?""Anyone, please save me! This is Punk Hazard! Ah~~~"A tragic wail was heard, and then there was silence.Luffy hung up the phone, propped his chin, and began to think seriously."I have a feeling something is going to happen," Luffy then said."That's obvious! People have been killed; that *is* something happening!" Luke also tapped Luffy's head."Ah! The New World is so terrifying!" Chopperexclaimed."That might have been acting, a trap," Robin said cautiously."Speaking of samurai…" Zoro looked at Brook.Brook nodded: "Yes, that's a samurai. It's the title for a swordsman from Wano Country. Swordsmen called samurai are very powerful; even the Marines don't dare to approach them casually."Zoro touched Shusui, the famous sword at his waist, recalling his battle with Ryuma on Thriller Bark that day; he, too, was a samurai."Alright, let's go save that guy just now!" Luffyraised his fist.Nami, Chopper, and Usopp once again contracted their disease of not being able to land on the island.Luffy just laughed, finding everyone amusing."Then, who will go to that island? Since the Transponder Snail's information is suspicious, we can't send everyone," Sanji said."Franky, get the Mini Going Merry out!" Luffy said.Luffy planned to go alone.No one felt comfortable letting Luffy go alone. He was a Devil Fruit user, and incidents of him drowning were not rare."Besides the swordsman, let's find a few more people to accompany Luffy," Luke said."What do you mean by that? Be careful, or I'll cut you, Lightning King!" Zoro bared his teeth.Sanji fanned the flames from the side: "Mosshead, take down the bastard Xiao, you idiot, draw your sword quickly!"Then Luke and Zoro looked at Sanji, who asked confusedly: "You two, why aren't you fighting yet?"Luke with a punch and Zoro with a sword hilt strike sent Sanji flying.Nami came up with a good idea: "In that case, let's draw lots."Sanji, using Moonwalk, flew back from mid-air, intending to attack Luke and Zoro, but Nami directly froze him into a block of ice using ice elements."The last lot is Sanji's. We'll draw first," Nami said.Zoro said: "Boring. Even if I don't draw it, I'm still going."Chopper said: "Zoro, if I draw it, will you go for me?"Finally, after drawing lots, the people accompanying Luffy were Zoro, Luke, Usopp, and Robin."Who will go for me?!" Usopp cried out to the heavens.With Sanji's bento, everyone prepared to set off and land on the Burning Island."Cloud Road!"Nami waved her Clima-Tact, laying a long Cloud Road from the deck, passing over the flames directly into the interior of the Burning Island."Amazing, a Cloud Road!" Luffy exclaimed.Nami smiled slightly: "I learned it on Sky Island. Hurry and cross while it's stable."Everyone boarded the Mini Going Merry and sailed along the Cloud Road towards the Burning Island.Looking to both sides of the cloud layer, a sea of fire lay below.Luffy had already opened Sanji's bento and started eating: "It's so hot!"Luke weighed the bento in his hand, feeling the weight was off. After opening it, a toy person popped out of the bento."Fooled you!"Four big characters were written on the toy person."You good-for-nothing Sanji, not preparing a bento for me. Just you wait." Luke had already prepared several sessions of electrotherapy for Sanji.On the Thousand Sunny, Sanji exhaled a smoke ring: "Don't blame me, Xiao. You've pranked me so many times; it's about time I pranked you once."On the Mini Going Merry, everyone was enjoying their bentos, but Luke's was empty. This was the consequence of offending the cook."What a cute toy," Robin said, seeing Luke's bento.Usopp tapped the toy with his chopsticks, and unexpectedly, the toy cracked open, revealing exquisite dishes inside, identical to everyone else's.To be honest, at that moment, Luke was moved. Although he often bickered with Sanji, as a cook, that guy had never let his companions go hungry.Filled with gratitude, Luke savored his bento, then thought about how to prank Sanji."I say, my strange illness that prevents me from landing on islands has worsened again," Usopp said, putting down his bento with a solemn expression."We know," Luke said."Yes, we know," Robin said."I know," Zoro said."I know too," Luffy said.Everyone was already accustomed to Usopp's strange illness, looking at him with a slight smile."Ah! Suddenly my head hurts again! Ah, my chest feels tight, and my stomach hurts so much!" Usoppbegan his performance again.Despite Usopp's ten thousand unwillingness, he still followed everyone into the fiery ring of the Burning Island.Not far away was an iron fence with a crooked sign that read "Punk Hazard." This gate was the entrance.After securing the Mini Going Merry, everyone arrived at the locked iron gate."This island seems to be restricted," Robin said, looking at the warning sign.It read "Danger, No Entry," along with the World Government and Marine symbols, and a poison symbol."We came all this way for nothing, let's go back," Usopp said.Zoro strode forward, drawing and sheathing his sword in one fluid motion.With a single cross-slash, he cut open the gate.Everyone walked towards the interior of the island. The surroundings were scorching hot flames. Lukewas so hot he took off his shirt, as did Luffy and the others. Robin also only wore a simple dress.Luke took out his water bottle and drank continuously as he walked; the water inside never seemed to run out.Everyone relied on this bottle of water to constantly rehydrate."It's really nice to have an Appraiser," a sweating Robin said happily, drinking the sweet spring water.
Chapter 287 Red Dragon and CentaurChapter 287: The Red Dragon and the CentaurWalking through this burning land, cracks were everywhere, and one could easily step into the magma below if not careful.After walking for a while, they saw the ruins of a burning town, with even some former government facilities still standing."Hey, is that guy from earlier here? We've come to save you!" Luffy shouted loudly.However, no one responded.Suddenly, everyone heard an unusual sound.A giant figure appeared in the flames. When everyone saw clearly, it was a huge red Western dragon.This dragon was much smaller than Alduin, and drool was dripping from its mouth."Why is there a dragon here?!" Usopp exclaimed."So cool!" Luffy also drooled.Immediately after, the giant dragon pursed its lips, and flames overflowed from its mouth and nostrils."It looks like it's about to use a flame breath," Lukesaid.Sure enough, a thick stream of fiery breath erupted from the Red Dragon's mouth, which Luffy easily dodged.The flames struck a distant hill, pulverizing it into dust.Immediately after, the Red Dragon flew into the sky."Are you also Shichibukai's companions?" A voice suddenly came from the giant dragon."Did that dragon just speak?" Zoro asked, puzzled."I'll go take a look."Luke transformed into lightning and arrived on the giant dragon's back, where he saw a person with only a lower body stuck in it—clearly Kin'emon.The fact that this guy could still run in this state clearly meant he had been sliced by Law.Luke drew his Hero's Sword, stood on the dragon's head, and plunged the sword in.The Red Dragon let out a mournful cry, then rapidly plummeted.After crashing, the Red Dragon was dead, and Kin'emon's lower body on its back continued to struggle.This Red Dragon was merely an artificial creature created to guard this island, so it wasn't very strong."What in the world is that!?" Luffy asked, puzzled, looking at Kin'emon's lower body.Usopp stroked his chin: "He must have crashed inside the giant dragon's body, which shows how incredibly hard his head is.""Pulling a radish!"Luffy raised his arm and shouted, then grabbed Kin'emon's body and started pulling with all his might."Who are you, let go!" Kin'emon exclaimed.To be able to speak in this state, where was the sound coming from?With Luffy's effort, Kin'emon's body was finally pulled out.Everyone looked closely and saw no upper body.Usopp's face immediately turned pale: "No… no!""No what?"Luffy stood up and looked at Kin'emon; his upper body was gone."I pulled him apart, I'm sorry!" Luffy apologized loudly.Usopp said: "Idiot, is an apology enough? You killed him!"Suddenly, Kin'emon's body leaped up, landing firmly on both feet: "I'm detached!""The lower body is talking, what is this?" Luffy and Usopp were stunned again.The meticulous Robin carefully examined the giant dragon's body and found no indentation where it had just been connected, which was very strange."Who is here, and what are you doing? Although I can sense your presence, I have no eyes or ears," Kin'emon said."You're so unique," Luffy exclaimed."Make way for me, I cannot die here. You Shichibukaiwill not escape!"With that, Kin'emon took off running.Luke threw the Demon Binding Rope, lassoing his legs."Retrieve!"The Demon Binding Rope bound Kin'emon and brought him before everyone.Kin'emon struggled continuously but couldn't break free.Luke untied the rope, then placed Kin'emon's lower body on Luffy's back.Luffy looked at the body on his back with great excitement: "Centaur, oh yeah!""Let me go!" Kin'emon's strength wasn't enough for him to break free; he was stuck to Luffy as if glued.Immediately after, everyone used the flames to roast the dragon. Luke took a bite and found it quite good.After eating, everyone went to the top of a building and looked into the distance. Opposite them was a snow-capped mountain range."As Luke said, it's truly a world of ice and fire. This is the power of an Admiral." Zoro tightened his grip on his sword hilt.The fiery zone and the icy zone were separated by a river.The person on the Transponder Snail earlier said he was cold, meaning he was in the snowy area on the other side."What an interesting island. It's so hot now, I want to go over there and eat shaved ice!" Luffy said."Idiot, you'll freeze to death over there! And it's too far, let's go back first!" Usopp complained.However, Luffy was already shouting for shaved ice and charging towards that side.Luke looked around and calmly followed behind Luffy: "Hey Usopp, if you don't go now, a flame demon will appear behind you.""No!"Usopp, scared, took off running and quickly overtook Luke.After walking for a while, Luffy, who was leading the way, encountered a centaur with a leopard's lower body.The centaur initially thought they were invaders, but upon seeing Kin'emon on Luffy's back, he realized he had mistaken them; the other party was also a centaur.So Luffy immediately started chatting happily with this centaur, and the two became friends."Luffy is making friends with strange people again," Zoro said.The two chatted happily, then started a race to see who could reach the burning tower first.The centaur actually agreed, and the two centaurs galloped across the Island of Flames, making everyone speechless.Suddenly, Brook answered the phone."What, Nami and the others are gone?!" Usoppexclaimed.Brook said that when he woke up, he was alone, with snowflakes drifting around him. He was also very surprised and didn't know what had happened, and all the supplies on the ship had been taken.Luke recalled that Nami and the others had been knocked out by Caesar's subordinates with gas and then taken away.Because Brook was a skeleton, the other party did not take him.Brook also said that after he woke up, he saw a group of guys wearing gas masks, and he had dealt with all of them.Robin asked Brook to look at the surrounding environment or buildings, as when they had left earlier, it was still the Island of Flames.Brook looked at the surroundings, and beneath the pristine white snow, there was a magnificent building.This meant the Sunny was driven by them to the cold island opposite.After hanging up the phone, Luke looked at Luffy. The centaur suddenly turned his weapon on Luffy, then was knocked down by one of Luffy's punches.Luffy was very puzzled: "We just became friends, why are you attacking me?!"Then another centaur appeared, intending to ambush Robin, but was knocked down by one of Robin's suplexes.After telling Luffy the news from Brook's call, everyone's destination was now simple: to go to the extremely cold island opposite, primarily to rescue their kidnapped companions.Actually, Luke felt that with Nami and Sanji's current strength, they could easily escape.Usopp shouted: "To the Land of Ice to rescue our companions!"Robin, however, was a bit worried: "I wonder if there are any winter clothes for sale along the way
Chapter 288 Laboratory DoorChapter 288: The Laboratory GateIt wasn't long before everyone arrived at the intersection of the fiery land and the icy land, where a wide river flowed.Half of the river water was still burning.To cross this river, they needed transportation, as Luffy and Robin couldn't swim.Luke took out his Somersault Cloud, and everyone stood on it, flying towards the other side.Looking down, the centaur that Luffy had knocked down earlier suddenly blew a horn."Boss, the invaders went that way, please eliminate them!" the centaur shouted loudly.Luke immediately looked towards the icy land, where a group of people appeared, one of whom was very tall.These guys were the Centaur Patrol, all members of the "Brownbeard Pirates" who were annihilated two years ago by the Supernova Basil Hawkins, and similarly became centaurs due to Law's ability.Zoro stared at the giant man because he was holding a greatsword, and Zoro was very interested in anyone who wielded a sword.That big guy was the leader of the Brownbeard Pirates, and now a subordinate of Caesar.Brownbeard laughed, "Prepare yourselves! I, Sir Brownbeard, will send you to hell."After getting closer, they saw clearly that all of them were centaurs, and Brownbeard himself was a centaur with the lower body of a large crocodile.Seeing these guys, Luffy's eyes lit up, wanting to make friends with them."Make friends? No way! They look like they're spoiling for a fight!" Usopp said.Robin said, "Could that group of people be the comrades of the person who sent the emergency distress signal earlier?"Usopp felt Robin was right; it would be best to clear up any misunderstandings before fighting, so he waved at the centaurs: "Hey, we're here to help you, let's talk first!"Brownbeard said, "What a boring lie! Since there's a samurai among you, then you are invaders."The samurai Brownbeard referred to was Zoro, but he was mistaken; the samurai he was looking for was actually Kin'emon.Usopp retorted, "This guy isn't a samurai, he's a swordsman. He's a simple-minded idiot who's all brawn and no brains. Sometimes he argues with people without thinking, but he wouldn't attack your comrades.""Who's an idiot!?" Zoro roared in anger."Help! I'm going to be killed! Stop it!" Usoppexclaimed.Brownbeard looked at them, and it seemed like they were putting on an act, so he gave the command to his subordinates: "Attack!"A centaur picked up a grenade launcher and fired at the Somersault Cloud in the air.Luke launched a Flying Finger Pistol, and the cannonball exploded in mid-air.Seeing that the shot had no effect, Brownbeard continued to order: "Don't retreat, keep firing!"A large number of cannonballs were fired towards the Somersault Cloud.Robin also quipped, "Their brains really aren't working too well."Luffy jumped off the Somersault Cloud: "Gum-Gum Balloon!"Luffy turned into a balloon, deflecting all the incoming cannonballs.Immediately after, Luffy descended from the sky and stood before them.Luke piloted the Somersault Cloud, carrying everyone down to Luffy's side."You guys, how dare you come before me? I am Sir Brownbeard, a pirate with a bounty of 80,060,000!"After saying that, Brownbeard expected to see their astonished reactions.Clearly, no one had heard of him, and only Luke had. If he hadn't watched One Piece, who would know who this guy was, with only 80,060,000?"Never heard of you!" Luffy said bluntly.Brownbeard slumped to the ground in frustration. After a few seconds of dejection, he suddenly picked up an even larger cannon: "Take this, Fury Strike!"Zoro stepped forward, and a single slash cut the cannonball in half.The group, having just come from the fiery land, was caught off guard by the sudden cold after disembarking.So, they turned their attention to the centaurs, who were all wearing thick clothes.Seeing Zoro's move, and then Luffy's Straw Hat, Brownbeard suddenly remembered: "I remember now! That hat! It's the rookie from the Worst Generation two years ago, Fire Fist's brother, the 400-million-bounty pirate with the Thunder King crewman, Straw Hat Luffy!"Luke heard this and wondered why he was being mentioned again; was he really that famous now?What Luke didn't know was that over the past two years, the stories of him making Whitebeardyounger and surviving four lightning tribulations had become a hot topic of discussion for many people.The members of the Brownbeard Pirates were shocked by their boss's words. A 400-million-bounty pirate! They were so scared they ran away."Mille Fleur!"Robin used her Devil Fruit ability, grabbing a female centaur, and then taking her thick clothes for herself.Luffy and Zoro also rushed over, and after a chaotic fight, everyone found a decent set of thick clothes.They defeated all the Brownbeard Pirates, leaving only Brownbeard himself, as he would be the best guide.Just then, they encountered Brook, who had been searching for them on the shore since earlier."Brook!" Luffy waved."Luffy!"Brook ran over; he had also found someone and stripped them of their clothes to wear."Lead the way, Brownbeard. The defeated must accept their defeat," Luke said, standing on Brownbeard.Brownbeard was a bit angry that several of his subordinates' clothes had been stolen, but he didn't dare to say much, only allowing everyone to sit on him as he ran towards the laboratory."By the way, Brook, you don't have skin, so you shouldn't be cold, right? Why did you also steal a piece of clothing?" Usopp asked curiously."It's for the atmosphere! Meeting everyone safely, I want to share the same feeling of coldness with you all!" Brook said.Robin said, "It's pitiful that Nami and the others were abducted dressed like that. I hope their hands and feet aren't dislocated due to frostbite.""Robin, your way of worrying is a bit cruel," Lukesaid, taking out a flask of shochu from his spatial ring and taking a sip, instantly feeling warm."I want some too, do you have more?" Zoro asked.Luke handed over the shochu, and the two began to drink and chat."Hey, you two, drinking leisurely in this situation!" Usopp exclaimed."Worrying won't help. We'll deal with it when we get there. Come, have a drink."While Usopp wasn't paying attention, Luke grabbed him, and Zoro, with a devilish grin, poured a full cup of shochu into Usopp's mouth."Ah~~ So spicy!"Usopp felt a flame surge through his body, almost spitting fire from his mouth.Luffy burst into laughter at the sight: "Amazing, Usopp, you can breathe fire when you drink!"Brownbeard ran nonstop, and after more than ten minutes, they finally saw the huge steel laboratory, completely covered in snow.At the river by the laboratory entrance, there was even a Marine warship docked; the Marines had also arrived."Someone's there," Usopp said.The person was wearing a black hooded trench coat with an open chest, the uppercase letters of Corazon's name printed on the back of the coat, a fluffy winter hat with leopard spots, and a long katana slung over his shoulder."Trafalgar Law!" Luke said.
Chapter 289 What Each of Them WantsChapter 289: What Each DesiresSeeing Law again brought a sense of melancholy; the scene of Law and Kid being chased by Akainuon Sabaody Archipelago two years ago was still fresh in memory.Hearing Luke's voice, Law's pupils constricted, and he turned to look at Luke."It seems to be that Supernova," Usopp said."I've met him once," Luffy said.The one most entangled with Law was Luke."Luke! ROOM!" Law didn't say a word and immediately used his ability, a translucent circle enveloping everyone."Amputate!"Law used his ability, intending to attack Luke's heart, but it was blocked by Luke's Armament Haki.Luke appeared beside Law, patting his shoulder: "Long time no see. No need for such a big reaction, right!"Luke's sudden appearance caught Law off guard; his speed was too fast for Law to react.If Luke had made a move just now, Law would probably have been killed.Cold sweat trickled down Law's forehead: "What do you want, Boss Xiao?""I'm not the boss; Luffy is. I just want to ask, where are Law, Nami, and the others?""Go around to the back of the laboratory; what you're looking for is there. We'll meet again later, won't we? We both have things we want to obtain," Law said.Luke removed his hand from Law's shoulder and glanced at Smoker, who was lying on the ground not far away.Smoker had suffered repeated defeats after entering the New World; Loguetown was his peak.Just then, a group of Marines rushed over from nearby."Mr. Smoker!"It was the lovely Tashigi who called out."Marines! Could that guy be...!" Luffy saw Tashigiand found her very familiar, having seen her in Loguetown, Alabasta, and the Marineford War.Tashigi came to the fallen Smoker, turned his body over, and discovered a large hole in his heart; his heart was gone.Tashigi remembered how Law became a Shichibukai; he offered 100 pirate hearts to the madman at headquarters. Now, Mr. Smoker's heart was also taken.Tears couldn't help but stream down Tashigi's face. She then picked up her weapon and charged towards Law."How dare you, how dare you, how dare you!"Law snorted: "Hey, hey, such foolish behavior is annoying. ROOM!"Law activated his ability, pointed his katana tip at Tashigi's heart, then at Smoker's heart, swapping their bodies. This way, he could briefly see Tashigi's open chest."I'm sure that made an impression," Law said, then walked into the laboratory."Sister Tashigi!" The Marines quickly ran to check on Tashigi's condition; no one dared to stop Law, as the difference in strength was too great."Xiao, hurry! The Marines are here!" Usopp shouted.Luke flashed back to Tea Beard's crocodile's back, and under Tea Beard's lead, they advanced towards the back of the laboratory."Are Smoker and the others okay? Did they lose to Tra-guy?" Luffy said, looking at the two fallen figures in the distance.Soon, everyone arrived at the back door of the laboratory. Indeed, as Law said, they met Nami and the others.Nami, Chopper, Franky, and Sanji, along with a group of large children, escaped from the laboratory. They were now shivering from the cold."Found you, guys!" Luffy waved happily.Seeing them arrive, Sanji excitedly danced, looking just like Chopper: "It's so good to see you!""Why is that idiotic cook so excited? Has his brain finally frozen?" Zoro grumbled."It's clearly because Law used his ability to swap bodies. Now Sanji is Chopper," Luke said."Nani!?" Zoro looked astonished."How interesting," Luffy chuckled.Even more surprising, Sanji's soul now resided in Nami's body.Sanji took the opportunity to pull open his jacket, wanting to catch a glimpse.However, Franky was enraged and punched Nami. Franky, now in Nami's soul, naturally couldn't tolerate Sanji peeking at her body.Nami's body was already frail, and with that punch, Nami directly knocked her own body unconscious.Everyone sat together, discussing what had just happened.Kin'emon's head, which was with Nami, had finally reunited with the lower half behind Luffy. Only the middle part of his body was missing.Kin'emon was extremely excited: "My body is finally back!"Luffy, however, was very dejected; his centaur lower body had detached.After learning everyone's situation, it was now clear who had become whom.Chopper had become Franky, Sanji had become Chopper, Franky had become Nami, and Nami had become Sanji.To prevent Sanji from peeking at her body, Namitook out a small notebook and started making notes: "300,000 Berries for a touch, 200,000 Berries for a peek."Hearing about money, Sanji immediately cowered, but it was only on the surface. Luke could vaguely see Sanji's lewd smile.Next, everyone sorted out the information. Kin'emonwas the disruptive Wano Country samurai. The distress signal heard on the Sunny was sent by Tea Beard Pirates' subordinates. Kin'emon's rampant killing of centaurs was the root cause of everything.Kin'emon righteously stated: "I was merely desperate to rescue my missing son, Momonosuke, and I only cut down those who hindered me. With so many children imprisoned in the laboratory, Momonosuke must also be held there."As for what happened after the phone call, Kin'emon was instantly cut into three pieces by Law.As for why the lower half could speak, Kin'emonexplained that it was flatulence, originally his special technique.Luke had heard of ventriloquism, but this was the first time he'd seen 'flatulence speech'.Brook said that just now, he met a person with only a body, which seemed to be Kin'emon's middle body part.Through Tea Beard's narration, everyone learned the general situation of the island.This was originally Vegapunk's experimental facility. Some prisoners were brought to this island and used as human test subjects like lab mice.Four years ago, Vegapunk's chemical weapon experiment failed, causing a violent explosion.Two of the three research laboratories were destroyed, and this was the site of the ruins.The high heat and toxic substances spread by the explosion turned this once lush island into a living hell.The Government abandoned the group of experimental prisoners, all fleeing the island and implementing a complete blockade.The remaining prisoners, to survive on the gas-filled island, fled into the only remaining third research laboratory.Those who didn't die lost sensation in their lower bodies due to neurotoxins, leaving them without a future.Later, Caesar came to this island, purified the toxic gas with his special ability, and granted the unable-to-walk prisoners scientific legs, taking them as his subordinates.In the hearts of the Tea Beard Pirates, Caesar was their savior.After that, Law came to this island and used his ability to give everyone real animal legs. Those who could no longer feel their legs were overjoyed to tears.And then came the battle between Aokiji and Akainu, which turned this place into a land of ice and fire.
Chapter 290 Snow Mountain Duo.Chapter 290: The Snow Mountain Duo.While everyone was talking, the playing children suddenly started clutching their heads, complaining of headaches.The children lay on the ground, rolling in pain.Chopper immediately drew blood for testing, and after asking the children a few questions, Chopperbecame furious.That guy named Caesar was not a good person; he wasn't treating the children.Chopper detected NHC10 in the sample, albeit in trace amounts, but it was undoubtedly poison.The children had been absorbing this poison little by little every day, and now they were chronically poisoned, needing the next dose of medicine to escape the pain.Chopper was so angry; that guy named Caesaractually gave the children such a drug.The children kept crying for help, making everyone feel heartbroken.Immediately after, the children started losing control, becoming violent."Why aren't you giving me candy!"No one could bear to harm the children, so Usopphad no choice but to unleash his ultimate move: "Killer: Exploding Sleep Star!"Smoke enveloped the children, and they quickly fell asleep."These children were indeed abducted," Nami said."Such terrible things have been done to them; they're so pitiful. They want to go home; let's save them!" Chopper exclaimed.During this time, Kin'emon had secretly run off, and Zoro, Sanji, and Brook went to chase Kin'emon.Luffy decided to go and meet Caesar.Luffy, Usopp, Franky, and Robin set off from the cave to find Caesar.Luke decided to wait in the cave for a while; a few guys should appear.A few minutes after Luffy and the others left, sure enough, the Snow Mountain Killer Duo appeared, named Rock and Scotch.They were from the Snow Country, with huge physiques and agile bodies.One of the snowman killers, Scotch, walked in and aimed his gun at Brownbeard.Brownbeard was very astonished; he thought his master sent them to kill the Straw Hat, so why would they kill him?Brownbeard greatly admired his master Caesar, always believing he was a good person."You're also on the kill list," the snowman killer Scotch said."What nonsense are you talking about? I must have misheard. Hmm, you scared me. Did master ask you to save me? Okay, quickly untie my chains and deal with the Straw Hat."Before Brownbeard could finish, Scotch's gun was already pressed against his forehead: "You didn't mishear. I was commissioned by the master to kill you."Scotch took out a Transponder Snail and played Caesar's recording.The words spoken were full of contempt for Caesar, calling him like shit, originally stupid, originally quite useful, but now that he was caught, he was in the way and no longer needed.Brownbeard was too shocked to speak after hearing this; the master he had always respected actually viewed him this way.With that, Scotch prepared to pull the trigger."Lies, lies!""Die!"Scotch pulled the trigger, and Luke extended his hand, firing a Finger Pistol.The air bullet hit Scotch's trigger finger, breaking it."My finger!" Scotch retreated a few steps in horror, looking at the man with the cigar not far away.Scotch's pupils constricted: "Thunderbolt King!"Luke snorted: "As a killer, you've been talking to yourself for so long, aren't you underestimating me too much?"Scotch looked at his partner Rock nearby: "What do we do, Rock? Thunderbolt King is here!""His reputation is all talk. What Thunderbolt King? I think he's just a ship doctor, otherwise Whitebeardwouldn't have gotten younger. Let's go together; we can definitely take him down!" Rock said.Luke chuckled: "For your IQ to be killers, I guess it's just the competition that makes you look good. Killers aren't popular in this world."Luke caught Rock's attack with one hand."How is that possible!"Rock's huge fist was blocked by Luke's single hand, unable to move an inch."The title Thunderbolt King is too lame; please call me Thunder God!"With that, Luke's electricity shot out from his palm, covering Rock's entire body."Ah!~~"Rock wailed, then collapsed in pain, black smoke rising from his body.Scotch was already considering retreating. He knew Rock's skill; he was stronger than him. If someone as strong as Rock couldn't even last one round against Thunderbolt King, what good would he be?"Anything valuable on you? Hand it over!" Lukedemanded.Scotch searched his entire body, but all he pulled out were murderous tools; there were no collectibles worth appraising."I was wrong; please spare me!"Scotch suddenly knelt down, repeatedly kowtowing.Luke was struggling with how to deal with the two of them.Just then, Scotch's eyes gleamed with malice, and he pulled a dagger from his waist, stabbing at Luke.Now Luke no longer had to hesitate. He drew the Hero's Sword and severed Scotch's wrist with one swing.Scotch trembled with pain: "My hand, ah!""The following scene is not suitable for children. Chopper, Nami, don't look."Then Luke jumped onto Scotch's back and chopped off Scotch's head with a sword.Nami and Chopper closed their eyes, unable to watch."Xiao..." Chopper's lips trembled slightly."I didn't want to kill him, but from the moment he pulled out the dagger to ambush me, I changed my mind."Luke then dragged Rock and Scotch's bodies out of the cave.Nami sighed but said nothing more; the world of pirates was inherently cruel.After dealing with the two bodies, Luke stepped on the Somersault Cloud and flew towards the research facility.After flying for about five minutes, he encountered Luffy and also Trafalgar Law.Luke descended from the sky, landing between the two.Law didn't have much of a friendship with Luffy at the moment, but he had a rather "deep" "friendship" with Luke, having almost been killed by him."Yo, Law, what do you want with our Captain?" Lukeasked with a chuckle, which annoyed Law greatly, but he couldn't do anything about it since he couldn't beat him, making him feel very frustrated.Law sighed: "I thought about it, and I came to tell you something, Straw Hat-ya, Xiao-ya.""I told you, I'm not a 'ya,'" Luke said, taking a puff from his cigar."It doesn't matter. This island holds a crucial key that can disrupt the New World. There are two ways to survive in the New World: either be protected by one of the Four Emperors, or challenge them. You wouldn't want to be subservient, would you?""No, I still want to be Captain," Luffy said."Then, form an alliance with me," Law extended an olive branch to Luffy.Luke knew that the currently composed Trafalgar Law was about to face his future nightmares."If I ally with you, we might be able to achieve it. I have a strategy to take down one of the Four Emperors."Law looked at the two solemnly, his eyes gleaming with ambition.
Chapter 291: Huge PoisonChapter 291: Giant Poisonous CreatureLuffy seemed very interested in Law's proposal.It wasn't so much an interest in the alliance itself, but more in Law's idea of overthrowing the Four Emperors' rule."What do you say, Luffy?" Luke asked.Luffy clapped his fist into his palm and said with a smile, "I think it's great! Let's do it!"And so, the Straw Hat Pirates and the Heart Pirates formed an alliance, somewhat hastily.Bringing Law back into the cave, Luffy informed his other crewmates of the alliance, and they were quite surprised.Robin cautiously said, "Luffy, I'll follow your decision, but pirate alliances often involve betrayal, and it's not suitable for you, who trusts others too much."Luffy turned to Law and asked, "Will you betray us?""No," Law replied.Luffy showed a confident smile."Anyway, a pirate alliance sounds interesting, right? I think Traffy is pretty good. And even if something unexpected happens, there's no need to worry. I have all of you, who have trained for two years, with me! Hahahahaha!"With Luffy's praise, his crewmates all felt a surge of pride."Alright, Luffy, leave it to me. If Zoro gets scared, I'll convince him," Usopp said.Seeing everyone happy, Luffy also burst out laughing.Law was a bit bewildered. What was wrong with these guys? Their intelligence seemed questionable. Had he made the wrong choice in forming an alliance?Afterward, Law used his ability to switch Chopperand Franky back into their own bodies, which resulted in Nami ending up in Sanji's body.Now only Sanji and Nami needed to switch back. Currently, Sanji, in Nami's body, had gone with Zoroand Brook to find Kin'emon.Regarding the children in the cave, Law advised everyone not to meddle, as these children had eaten addictive poisonous pills. The human giantification experiment was a research project the World Government had been conducting for hundreds of years.However, Nami and Chopper were very worried about these children and insisted on escorting them away. Law sighed helplessly."Since we've formed an alliance, we have to help each other!" Luffy said, pointing at Law.Law looked stunned. His expression showed that he was already regretting his decision.The reason Law hadn't completely given up hope was because he saw Luke next to him. Only that guy was reliable. Although he didn't talk much, his strength was formidable, which gave Law great confidence in the alliance.As Luffy spoke, he flicked a booger onto Chopper, who became furious.This scene left Law speechless: "You all handle the samurai's business. I'm going to investigate the medicine given to those children. Which one of you is the doctor? Come with me."And so, Law and Chopper prepared to go to the laboratory together to find an antidote.Before leaving, Law explained Caesar's true identity: Caesar Clown, a Gas-Gas Fruit user with a bounty of 300 million Berries and a creator of weapons of mass destruction. He also warned everyone not to approach him if they couldn't use Haki."Those who can use Haki here are me, Xiao, Zoro, Sanji, and you, right?" Luffy said."That's enough. I'll go to the research facility first.""Then we'll team up and tie up that guy called Master, right?""Exactly."Law left with Chopper.After Law left, Luffy thought of a way to kidnap Caesar. As for what that method was, there was no need to ask to know.Five minutes later, Luke, Luffy, Robin, and Frankyarrived at the laboratory's main gate.Luffy stood at the laboratory gate, raising his arms and shouting, "Master, come out! Watch me beat you up and kidnap you!"Luke held a megaphone, recorded Luffy's words, and then set it to loop."Master, come out! Watch me beat you up and kidnap you!""Master, come out! Watch me beat you up and kidnap you!"A loud, mechanical voice echoed at the laboratory entrance, audible throughout the entire area.Law, who had just arrived near the laboratory, was shocked. He had told Luffy and the others to come up with a meticulous strategy, but they had just stood at the entrance, declaring war on the entire army.The enemies included Caesar's subordinates and Smoker's Marines.Law now had a headache, not understanding what that idiot Luffy was thinking, and even the seemingly reliable Luke was playing a recording through a megaphone."Come out!" Luffy happily shouted."Damn it! How dare you say you'll beat up our Master and kidnap him?""What a joke!""Take down the Straw Hat!"The centaur subordinates at the gate, unaware of Caesar's true nature, yelled and charged towards the group.Against these minions, Franky swung his Strong Right with its chain, a circular sweep sending the pirates flying.Next, they saw the Marines nearby, with Smokerand Tashigi standing together.Currently, Tashigi had a cigar in her mouth and her clothes were open, looking very uninhibited, while Smoker appeared very reserved. Their body swap had created an interesting dynamic.Tashigi swung her long sword, slashing towards Luffy, who easily dodged it.Smoker, whose soul was currently residing in Tashigi's body, was no match for Luffy and was easily defeated by him.Luffy was puzzled: "What's wrong, Smoker? You've gotten much weaker.""That's not it, I'm..."Before Tashigi could finish, Smoker, whose soul was in Tashigi's body, rushed over: "Don't lose to that guy using my appearance!"With that, Smoker and Luffy began to fight.When Luffy learned that Smoker and Tashigi had swapped bodies, he no longer wanted to fight Smoker. He wanted to fight the Smoker who could use his full strength.Luke delivered a Cross Tempest Kick, sending the laboratory door flying."Let's go, I've opened the door," Luke reminded."That was quick, Xiao!" Luffy said.Just as everyone was about to enter the laboratory, a giant red mass flew from the sky.The enormous red mass landed on a warship, then began to squirm, like a red slime.Some pirates went to investigate and were poisoned by the toxic gas emitted by the red creature.Others brought out flamethrowers, but as they sprayed, the red creature violently exploded, killing all the nearby pirates.This red slime was deadly if touched and would explode if burned, making it very tricky.The giant poisonous slime continuously sprayed venom from its mouth towards the laboratory.These blobs of venom, when they landed on the ground, could also squirm on their own, attacking nearby living things, and they smelled extremely foul."Run! Don't touch it!"Pirates and Marines alike fled in panic.At this moment, accompanied by a gust of gas, Caesar appeared on top of the giant poisonous creature."Good boy, I'm sorry I kept you locked up for three years, hee hee hee hee!"Caesar floated high in the air, letting out a strange laugh.