Chapter 150: CP9 Begins Its MoveThe auction proceeded unexpectedly smoothly.Franky successfully bid for the precious Adam Wood with an overwhelming 190 million Berries.After arranging for his underlings to transport the materials back to their hideout in the backstreets, he excitedly led Usopp, Sanji, and the Cutty Flams Sisters, Kiwi and Mozu, to a bar."I'll show you the world!" Franky laughed loudly, though in reality, he just wanted to get some free cola.With two beauties by his side, Sanji was naturally overjoyed, fawning over the sisters the entire way.Usopp, however, seemed a bit disinterested and suggested going for a stroll on his own, but Sanjiforcibly kept him there on the grounds that "the Vice Captain ordered no solo actions."Along the way, the way Mozu and Kiwi walked caught Usopp's attention.Kiwi's pink square-shaped hair ends were slightly curled, and she wore a top and shorts with a bear pattern;Mozu wore yellow sunglasses, paired with a matching top and capri pants.Their long noses were even sharper than Usopp's, and they moved sideways like crabs as they walked."Is this... because everyone in the underworld has to walk sideways?" Usopp quipped with a pun.The two sisters broke into an awkward cold sweat: "If we don't..."As if to prove their point, a strong gust of wind suddenly blew by.Due to their petite figures and their square hairstyles that caught too much wind, the two were nearly blown away."Ah!""Strong Grip!""Embrace of Happiness!"Sanji appeared behind Mozu in a flash, opening his arms to welcome the beauty into his embrace.To his disappointment, however, all that greeted him was the strong wind preceding the tsunami—Franky's mechanical hand pulled Mozu back before he could."Boss is so strong!" Mozu was gently placed on the ground by Franky."You damn robot! How can you just destroy someone else's dream like that!" Sanji roared in anger."Isn't your dream the All Blue?" Usopp whispered his critique."Ow! Speaking of dreams, the tavern up ahead is Super awesome!" Franky turned and said to Sanji."Are there many beautiful ladies?" Sanji immediately fell into a fantasy."Nope! I meant the cola is Super awesome!""Then why the hell did you even mention it!" Sanjigritted his teeth in frustration.*Creeeak—*Franky pushed open the bar's white double wooden doors. The originally noisy bar fell silent the moment they saw who had arrived; everyone froze in place.*Squeak, squeak—*Only the sound of Blueno wiping a glass was exceptionally clear in the silence."Welcome."Blueno's voice was deep and resonant. He wore a yellow beach shirt, and his hair flared out to the sides, making his appearance a far cry from a bloodthirsty CP9 agent."Ow! How's it going, Blueno!"Franky turned sideways and struck his signature pose, raising his fists at a ninety-degree angle with his backside sticking out.The Cutty Flams Sisters behind him performed the same pose in sync.Usopp and Sanji felt a wave of embarrassment and quickly found a spot to sit and order."Hehehe, I think it's not bad."Blueno's expression remained calm; he was clearly long accustomed to Franky's exaggerated behavior."What do you mean 'not bad'? You're such a vague guy."Franky opened his abdominal storage compartment and took out three empty glasses, placing them on the bar counter,"Fill 'em up, just like usual!" His hair was drooping, clearly showing he was in desperate need of an energy refill."Do you have money?" Blueno's casual remark made Franky's hair stand on end instantly."You're asking for money? What kind of boss are you, actually asking a customer for money? That's so stingy!" Franky said with a look of disgust."If it's money you want, we have some!" Mozupulled out a handful of Berries, skillfully fanning them out."After we finished shopping, we still have two million Berries left!" Kiwi also showed off the bills in her hand."What?!"Franky turned around in shock, and after confirming there really was that much money, he immediately grabbed his head, his mouth agape."There's actually that much left!"He panicked like a child who had done something wrong,"How unsightly of me, how embarrassing! I actually have money left over!"He snatched the Berries from the sisters' hands, jumped onto a customer's table, and tossed the two large handfuls of bills into the air."You customers are so lucky! Drinks are on me today! Let's party! Ow!""Whoa! So awesome! As expected of Franky!" the customers cheered excitedly."As expected of the underworld boss of Water 7! Here's another one!" a customer cheered while picking up Berries from the floor.Watching this scene, Sanji and Usopp were filled with trepidation, reminded of the fear of being dominated by Nami on the ship."This guy is definitely going to be beaten to death by Nami," Usopp said, drinking juice and munching on a slice of bread."Same here."Sanji leaned back in his chair and exhaled a smoke ring."Is the cola ready yet, Blueno?" Franky sat at the bar. "Move faster! Otherwise, I won't be able to stay Super!""Franky, looks like business is booming."Granny Kokoro, who had appeared out of nowhere, picked up a mug of draft beer and downed it."Hmm?"Franky turned his head and shouted in surprise, "Ah? Old hag Kokoro? What are you doing here?"His voice was so loud it knocked the paintings on the wall crooked."Hey! Can I have two glasses of juice, Franky?"Chimney poked her head out from behind Kokoro, and her rabbit Gonbe appeared hopping along."Hey! This is a bar, not a place for kids," Franky said, frowning with disdain."Business is good, isn't it!" Granny Kokoro laughed."I really can't deal with you guys. Blueno, give the two little ones as much juice as they can drink!"Franky propped his head on his hand, his hair drooping over his mechanical hand, looking quite helpless."The cola is filled. Here," Blueno said, placing three bottles in front of Franky."I've been waiting for you!"Franky immediately opened his abdominal storage compartment to swap the cola bottles.He lowered his head, feeling the energy from the cola circulating through his entire body."It's coming... it's coming!"Even from a few seats away, Sanji and Usopp could hear his powerful heartbeat."Super revived!"Franky's pompadour stood up once more, and his whole being was revitalized."Ow! Old hag, why aren't you watching the station? What are you doing here?""Idiot, the Gods of Water is coming! Has your place taken any protective measures?" Granny Kokoroasked."Small stuff like that can be left to my underlings! I gave them a pretty big budget for expenses!"Franky spread his hands, looking like a man of great wealth."It was clearly just what was left over from buying materials," Usopp cast a look of contempt."Hey! Granny, do you remember us? Thanks for the letter of introduction!" Usopp waved to Granny Kokoro."Ah! It's you guys! Where are the others?" Granny Kokoro asked."Luffy and the others went to Iceburg's place! Markand the others went to find a shelter," Usoppreplied."Idiot! Don't just blurt out our whereabouts!"Sanji pulled Usopp over and whispered in his ear.Usopp immediately realized his slip of the tongue and quickly covered his mouth."I was originally planning to have a drink with that kid Iceburg today, but I heard he was shot! Hahaha," Kokoro laughed."Tell me about it. They still haven't caught the culprit! Galley-La Company is in an uproar,""I heard they've surrounded City Hall so tightly not even a drop of water could get through!" Frankyshook his head."That guy has always been harassed by the World Government; maybe the World Government did it!" Kokoro took another large gulp of alcohol."Oh? You seem to know a lot of inside information," Franky looked at Kokoro."CP9 is responsible for doing the government's dirty work, did you know that? Blueno!"Granny Kokoro looked toward the tavern owner.Blueno was pouring wine for Kokoro, not a single drop spilled. He replied flatly:"I think I've heard of them.""Hahaha, I've only heard rumors too!" Kokorolaughed loudly."Old hag, it's most terrifying when even common folk have heard rumors!" Franky tilted his head and poured the cola into his mouth."Meanwhile, in a resting room at City Hall, Iceburg leaned against the headboard, his shoulder wrapped in bandages, his expression grave.The person who was able to slip into his room silently last night and demand the blueprints for Pluton undoubtedly came from the World Government.What disturbed him even more was the vague feeling that the CP organization had already infiltrated his company."Kalifa."Iceburg looked up at the shrewd and capable woman who had always been his right-hand assistant,"Sorry, could you leave for a moment?""I understand." Kalifa adjusted her glasses and turned to leave without expression."By the way, tell Bally to come in for a moment."Iceburg's tone was resolute, as if he were about to make a major decision."Yes."This time, Kalifa hesitated for a second before answering.She gently closed the door and said to the crowd waiting outside:"Bally, Mr. Iceburg seems to have something very important to tell you."At the door, Bally, Lucci, Kaku, Peeply Lulu, and the loud-mouthed Tilestone stood guard like iron towers to prevent another attack."Looking for me?" Bally turned, looking puzzled."Just you. I'm going to the secretary's office; call me if there are any problems."Kalifa walked toward the secretary's office next door in her high heels."What could it be, calling you in to talk privately at a time like this?" Kaku asked as if making small talk."I don't know either!" Bally flicked the ash off his pant leg."A will?" Tilestone's loud voice suddenly boomed.The moment the words left his mouth, he was hit in the face with three heavy punches—why not four? Because there was nowhere left to hit. He fell to the ground."It must be something important! Go on!"Peeply Lulu stood up and pressed down on his stray hair that always popped up—press it down here, and it pops up over there."Alright!" Bally straightened himself up and pushed the door open."Alright, it's not appropriate for us to be here; let's step back a bit," Peeply Lulu suggested."Right." Kaku and Lucci dragged Tilestone along the floor to a corner of the hallway to continue their "chat."In the resting room, Bally sat by Iceburg's bedside.Iceburg signaled for him to lean in, then whispered in his ear. Bally nodded at times and frowned at others."I understand!" Bally's expression was firm."This might be something that comes with great risk. After thinking it over, I can only entrust it to you. Are you willing to accept?" Iceburg said solemnly."You're being too formal; leave it to me.""Then, I'm counting on you." Iceburg closed his eyes."I'll go do it right now." Bally got up and left.Opening the door, the four were right there.Lucci's pigeon spoke: "Hoo hoo, are you done talking?""Yeah, I have something very important to do. Is it okay if I leave for a bit?" Bally asked."Sure, go ahead! Leave this place to the four of us," Kaku agreed readily.After Bally left, Kaku and Lucci exchanged a meaningful look.By now, the time was already 21:30.On a rooftop, a tall man wearing a plush mask stood silently."Buru... buru... buru!"The transponder snail in his arms rang. He took it out and placed it in his palm to answer.A woman's voice came from the other end: "Are you ready?""Yeah! OK," the masked man replied.The woman's voice on the phone continued: "Then, I'll go distract them, and the other four will complete their respective tasks after the signal is sent.""Understood, in the name of CP9."The man in the plush mask put the transponder snail back and leaped down from the rooftop.As the night deepened, under the calm surface of Water 7, undercurrents were surging.The tsunami was coming, but a conspiracy even more dangerous than the tsunami was quietly unfolding in the shadows of the city.
Chapter 151: Night RaidA deafening explosion tore through the tranquil night sky of Water 7.The front of the City Hall turned into a sea of fire; the scorching airwaves knocked pedestrians to the ground as rubble splattered like raindrops."Quick! Move the wounded to safety!""Medical team! Get the bandages, fast!"Amidst the thick smoke, a young shipwright apprentice struggled to drag his injured senior, his face covered in ash but his teeth clenched.The older shipwright took over the wounded man and shouted at him:"Go evacuate the citizens! Leave this to us!"Meanwhile, inside the City Hall, Bally was startled by the loud bang.He had just moved the desk and pulled back the rug to reveal a hidden safe, his fingers hovering over the combination lock, when the explosion interrupted him."What's going on? Where did that explosion come from?"He muttered to himself, sweat sliding down his cheek,"Of all times... it's really scary, you know!"There was still half an hour before the scheduled meeting with Iceburg, and Luffy's group, who were wandering the streets, were also startled by the explosion."Oh no!"Nami grabbed the basket of fresh fruit in her hand and bolted toward the City Hall."Hey! Where'd this female bandit come from? She looks decent enough, but what a thief!"The stall owner shouted furiously from behind.Zoro quickly threw down a few Berries and grabbed the dazed Luffy:"Idiot, let's go!"Luffy, still in the posture of reaching for money, was dragged along by Zoro like a flag.The Straw Hat shook violently in the wind, and his rubber arms traced strange arcs in the air.However, before they had gone far, Zoro suddenly stumbled and fell to the ground, while Luffy flew out like a cannonball, slamming into a lamppost and leaving a human-shaped dent."Ow, ow, ow..."Luffy peeled himself off the lamppost, his rubber face contorted,"What happened?"Zoro pushed himself up and glared angrily at Robinbehind him:"You black-hearted woman! Why did you use your ability to trip me?"Robin elegantly withdrew her ability, crossing her arms over her chest, and said calmly:"You're running in the wrong direction.""The City Hall is the other way."Nami caught up, panting, and pointed to the only alley nearby:"In all of Water 7, you're the only one who could get lost on such a wide street!"Zoro's face turned red, his hand instinctively resting on his sword hilt:"S-Shut up!""This damn place is built like a maze!"While they were arguing, the situation inside the City Hall grew increasingly tense.*Bang!*The door to the lounge was slammed open, and Tilestone's massive figure charged in."Mr. Iceburg! Are you alright?"His booming voice made the windows tremble.Iceburg, who was playing with a small white mouse, was startled, and the piece of cheese in his hand dropped to the floor:"I'm fine, but could you lower your voice? You scared me!""Enemy spotted! They're on the third floor!"Shouts from the shipwrights came from a distance."They've appeared! I'll go catch the assassins and hang them from the mast as flags!"Without waiting for Iceburg's response, Tilestonecharged out like a gust of wind, his heavy footsteps echoing in the corridor.Peepley Lulu followed closely behind:"I'll go assist him!"The two disappeared into the corridor in less than a second.Kaku stood up to say something, but the two had already run far away.He exchanged a glance with Lucci and sat back down in silence.The pigeon on Lucci's shoulder lightly ruffled its feathers and let out a coo.The chaos outside intensified.Two mysterious figures in full disguise appeared in the shipwrights' sight:Blueno, wearing a green koala mask, was active outdoors.Kalifa, wearing a red cloak and a golden mask, moved through the interior.Kalifa was agile, her Thorned Whip moving so fast it was impenetrable, each swing carrying the sound of breaking air.She didn't stay to fight long, moving quickly after knocking down a few people, skillfully drawing the shipwrights toward the building's perimeter.The shipwrights outside were being led by the nose by Blueno; every time they seemed to have him cornered, he would fly away by stepping on air."He's walking in the air!"A shipwright exclaimed in disbelief."Never mind that! He's run into a dead end!"The shipwrights pursued relentlessly, cornering Blueno into a narrow alleyway.Blueno stood with his back against the wall as the shipwrights closed in from both sides with their weapons.The air was thick with tension; everyone held their breath."Nowhere left to run!""Surrender, assassin!"Blueno suddenly tore off the red-and-white checkered cloak he was wearing and threw it into the air; the cloak drifted down like a flag, completely covering him."Fire!"Bullets rained down on the cloak, and the smell of gunpowder instantly filled the alleyway.However, when the cloak hit the ground, the person inside had vanished without a trace, leaving only the bullet-riddled fabric."Where is he?""How is this possible?""A magician?"The shipwrights looked at each other, their faces filled with confusion and unease.Meanwhile, inside the City Hall, Bally finally opened the safe.He carefully took out a roll of old blueprints tied with rope, but before he could put them away, two cold voices rang out behind him."Is this Mr. Iceburg's property?""It's a waste to leave it to someone like you who can't utilize its value."Bally trembled and slowly turned around.Standing before him were two mysterious figures wearing eerie masks:One wearing a white skull mask and a deep blue cloak,And another wearing a black bull mask and an off-white uniform.Their appearance was silent, as if they had emerged directly from the shadows."Who are you? How did you get in here?"Bally's fingers gripped the blueprints tightly."We come from the darkness. We are the executors of justice—Cipher Pol No. 9.""No matter where you came from, you should have run into our shipwrights!"Bally's eyes were full of disbelief; he knew that Lucci and the others were supposed to be guarding this floor."Who knows? Maybe we did, maybe we didn't."The one in the skull mask raised a hand, and bright red blood dripped from his fingertips, blooming like flowers on the floor."This is a massacre! This isn't an assassination at all!" Bally's eyes nearly split from rage."We never said it was an assassination. Hand it over!""And since you know everything, you can die too! In the name of justice, right here and now!"The bull-masked man clenched his fists, his knuckles cracking.Bally made a split-second decision and crashed through the glass window, the shards sparkling in the Moonlight.He used his Rope Control technique to swing out of the building, the night wind rushing against his face."A futile struggle!"The bull-masked man snorted coldly and flashed forward in pursuit, moving so fast he left only an afterimage.Meanwhile, Tilestone encountered the man in the koala mask in the corridor.This man, known as the strongest among the shipwrights, swung a massive iron hammer weighing several tons toward his opponent, the veins bulging on his muscular arms."Iron Body!"To everyone's shock, the hammer hitting the masked man produced a metallic clanging sound. Instead of hurting him, the heavy hammerhead buckled and deformed, as if it had struck indestructible steel."How is this possible?"The watching shipwrights were dumbfounded; some even rubbed their eyes."Is this the strength you're so proud of?"The masked man threw a casual punch, slamming Tilestone's head entirely into the floor, sending stone fragments flying.Tilestone lost consciousness before he could even let out a groan.Screams rose one after another as the masked man moved like a tiger among sheep, the shipwrights falling one by one.His every move was precise and lethal, clearly the result of rigorous combat training.Just as the City Hall fell into chaos, Mark's group finally found a shelter.As long as Luffy, Sanji, and the others completed their mission, they could contact them via transponder snail and use the Rainbow Passage to reach the shelter.Unfortunately, there was only one spot left.The air inside the shelter was stale, a mix of various smells.Mark spread an elegantly patterned rug in the corner and set up a small tea table with cookies prepared by Sanji and steaming coffee."I wonder how Usopp and the others are doing,"Chopper said worriedly, his little hooves fidgeting with a teacup."I just contacted Sanji through the transponder snail; they've safely returned to Franky's house."Mark took a sip of coffee, his gaze sweeping across the crowded shelter.Just then, a drunken man stumbled over, reeking of alcohol:"Hey, what a cute young lady..."His gaze shifted back and forth between Mark and Merry,"Drinking that is no fun. Try some of this!"He said, shoving a bottle of cheap liquor in front of Mark.A vein popped on Mark's forehead, and Chopperquickly stopped him:"Don't be angry, let me!"Chopper was truly afraid that if Mark lost his temper, he would tear down the hard-won shelter.The little reindeer transformed instantly, his furry arms bulging with muscle as he punched the drunkard flying:"Idiot! Drunkard!"The shelter went quiet for a moment, then erupted into warm applause and cheers:"Nice job, monster!""Good hit!"It seemed the drunkard had harassed quite a few people."You bastards! Even if you praise me like that, it's not like I'll be happy!"Chopper's face turned red instantly, and he wiggled around on the floor in his original form.Meanwhile, on the street, Kokoro was facing the strengthening sea breeze, comfortably drinking."This sea breeze is perfect for sobering up!"She took another large gulp, the liquor overflowing from the corners of her mouth, dripping down her chin before being blown away.Chimney held the rabbit Gonbe, the gale making it almost impossible for her to keep her eyes open:"Granny Kokoro, you're saying you want to sober up while you're still drinking... Can you really sober up like that?""It's quite a lively night!" Granny Kokoro took another drink, the distant soaring flames reflected in her eyes.The wind howled, the roar of the Gods of Waterdrawing closer, and waves were already beginning to surge on the distant sea.
Chapter 152: Luring the Tiger Out of the Mountain"Weak! Too weak! How can you escape our physical techniques!"Kaku wiped the blood from his fingers; every crimson drop came from Bally's severely wounded body.Under the Moonlight, his mechanical movements seemed exceptionally cold.At this moment, Bally collapsed at the entrance of Central Street, like a discarded rag doll.Blood gurgled from various parts of his body, spreading into a dark red pool on the stone road.Just now, he had used all his strength to flee here, every step leaving a bloody footprint behind him, only to be easily caught by Lucci.The streets were empty, with only the wild wind swirling fallen leaves; the residents had long since hidden away from the approaching Gods of Water."Just give it to us! Your blood will only stain it."Lucci reached out toward Bally, his voice icy."Damn it, have I reached my limit..."Bally fell forward, the blueprints in his hand rolling onto the ground like a helpless withered leaf.Lucci bent down to pick up the blueprints, unhurriedly untying the cord, every movement oozing a calm and deliberate cruelty.Just then, Bally used his last bit of strength to say:"Actually... Mr. Iceburg just told me to leave quickly, to throw that thing away... and escape."Knowing he couldn't escape death, Bally grinned, revealing teeth stained red with blood as he mocked:"Because the thing in your hand... is a fake! Heh heh! Cough, cough..."Blood sprayed out with his coughing."What?""A fake!"The eyes under Lucci and Kaku's masks instantly became sharp, a thick murderous intent almost solidifying, making the surrounding air seem to freeze.They had been busy all night, meticulously planning, only to end up with a fake!"How dare you play us!"Lucci threw the blueprints down violently. The papers scattered in the air; they were indeed just ordinary ship designs, looking exceptionally ironic under the dim glow of the streetlights."Heh heh, although I don't know who you are... or what you're looking for..."Bally laughed loudly, but coughed up more blood."Anyway... the plan failed, didn't it? Haha!"His eyes held a final stubbornness."It seems we need to initiate Plan B."Lucci took out a transponder snail and said briefly:"Initiate Plan B. Leave Iceburg alive."His voice was as cold as ice.Two "Yes, sir" responses came from the other end of the phone, sounding exceptionally clear in the silent night.After hanging up, Lucci approached Bally step by step, the sound of his leather shoes on the stone slabs like a tolling death knell:"As for you, even though you're just a decoy, anyone who gets involved with CP9 shouldn't expect to leave alive."He spread his fingers, lethal power condensing at his fingertips, as he was about to pierce Bally's skull—"Hey!"The sudden shout made Lucci and Kaku pause simultaneously, their movements freezing mid-air."You guys... where did you buy those masks?"Luffy poked his head out from a street corner and asked curiously, his innocence completely out of place in this bloody scene."Straw Hat!"Bally called out weakly, a glimmer of hope flashing in his eyes."Huh?"Luffy finally noticed Bally, who was covered in blood."You're the rope guy! How did you end up like this?"His expression changed from curiosity to shock."Straw Hat Luffy! Thank you for coming all this way just to die!"Lucci said deeply, his tone carrying a hint of irony."Ah? You know me?""Soru!"Lucci's figure vanished instantly, reappearing in front of Luffy the next moment, his speed so fast he left only an afterimage.A Shigan aimed straight for Luffy's chest. Although his rubber body absorbed some of the impact, Luffywas still knocked back several steps, a trail of blood seeping from the corner of his mouth.The force of this strike made Luffy finally realize the strength of his opponent."An ordinary person would have died from a pierced heart; your rubber body saved your life." Lucciretreated to his original position immediately after the strike failed."Luffy!"Zoro, who arrived shortly after, immediately became alert. He instantly drew two swords, his eyes as sharp as a hawk's."What are these two things?"His muscles tensed as he entered a combat-ready state.Luffy wiped the blood from his mouth, his expression turning serious."So fast, much faster than the smoke guy! He's a master of physical arts.""Physical arts? Are they Marines?"Zoro was no stranger to such physical arts, but the opponent's moves were even more fierce."No, only the lapdogs of the World Governmentwould hide their faces like this!"Robin looked troubled, her hands unconsciously clenching.Just then, the heavily injured Bally used his last bit of strength to shout:"They are the assassins who attacked Iceburg! Go protect Mr. Iceburg, quickly!"Though his voice was weak, it carried an unquestionable urgency."Rankyaku!"Kaku sent a kick with a slicing shockwave toward Bally, the sharp current of air tearing through the atmosphere!"One Sword Style: Hawk Wave!"Zoro reacted quickly, blocking Bally like a swift cheetah. A flash of blade light precisely parried the Rankyaku's slash.The two forces collided, kicking up a gust of wild wind."A flying slash?"Zoro remembered Mark mentioning a technique among the Marine Six Powers that used kicks to produce slashes; today, he had seen it with his own eyes.His gaze became even more solemn, realizing the opponent was no small matter."Roronoa Zoro! A formidable opponent!"Kaku's voice came from under the skull mask, carrying a hint of appreciation."Opposing us has serious consequences. You'd better think it through.""Idiot! I'm a pirate! If I don't oppose you, would you let us go?"Zoro said disdainfully, his blade pointing directly at the opponent."It seems you've made your resolve! Then die here!""Rankyaku!"Zoro advanced instead of retreating, the stone slabs beneath his feet shattering from the force.The wado ichimonji in his hand carved a beautiful arc. Two fierce slashes collided, erupting in a blinding light; the energy rippled outward and slowly dissipated into the night sky.Nami took advantage of the gap, rushing to Bally's side, grabbing him by the collar and dragging him to safety with clean, swift movements."To... to think her legs are exposed so much... what a... what a shameless woman!"Looking at Nami's long legs under her blue miniskirt, Bally used his last breath to complain, a hint of a blush actually appearing on his pale face."Yes, yes, yes, you're about to owe your life to a shameless woman!"Electricity flowed through Nami's hands, sparks dancing at her fingertips as she slapped them onto Bally's chest over his heart."Electrotherapy! I listened carefully to Chopper's instructions, so it should be effective... I hope!"Her expression was both worried and determined.Nami was using electricity to jumpstart his heart and trigger an adrenaline rush!Bally's whole body convulsed as electric arcs jumped across him, and then he suddenly opened his eyes:"Ah! I'm fired up!"A spark of life returned to his eyes.Although blood was still oozing from the holes pierced by the Shigan, Bally felt as if he had been fully revived; his spirit was restored, and he could barely stand.Facing Lucci, Luffy wiped the blood from his mouth, his gaze becoming more serious than ever:"Nami, you and Robin go find Iceburg first! Leave this place to Zoro and me.""I'll go with you. Without me to lead the way, you won't be able to get in given the current situation."Bally flicked a rope from his sleeve, weaving it into a rope bridge in the air, every knot tied precisely and swiftly."Quick, this way!"Nami and Robin exchanged a glance, nodded in unison, and then nimbly jumped onto the rope bridge. They extended their arms to maintain balance and crossed quickly as if walking on flat ground, reaching the riverbank in moments."We're really being underestimated!"Lucci tapped his foot on the ground, causing it to crack."Soru!"Luffy performed the same movement, his rubber legs exploding with incredible elasticity.The next second, Lucci was suddenly sent flying back through the air!He crashed into a distant wall, sending debris flying."I can do that move too!"Luffy maintained his punching posture, battle intent burning in his eyes."Ptooey!"Lucci spat the blood from his mouth onto the ground, slowly stood up from the ruins, cracked his neck, and his gaze became even more dangerous.*Bam!*Without a word, the two instantly clashed, the sound of fists and feet meeting echoing in the night sky.Zoro and Kaku were the same. Zoro's yodo himawari and wado ichimonji clashed with Kaku's two chisels, sparks flying and the sound of metal clashing ringing out continuously.After a few exchanges, Lucci and Kaku suddenly retreated, sharing a knowing look."Moonwalk!"The two stepped on the air, reaching the roof in a few bounds as if walking on solid ground, their figures looking exceptionally agile under the Moonlight."Don't run!"Luffy used Gum-Gum Trampoline, his belly bulging like a ball.Zoro took a short run and stepped on Luffy's belly, using the rebound to leap high into the air.Luffy extended his rubber arms, and Zoro grabbed them precisely before swinging him hard. Luffy flew toward Lucci's back at a speed faster than Moonwalk, like a cannonball.*Bam!*Using his extreme speed, Luffy kicked Lucci in the back.Lucci dodged nimbly with Moonwalk. Luffy couldn't stop in time, and his head got stuck directly between two buildings.Only his buttocks were left outside, wiggling like a maggot—the scene was quite comical."Idiot Captain!"Zoro caught up and gave Luffy's butt a kick, the force just right.Luffy shot out like a rocket, his rubber face deforming from the acceleration."Thanks, Zoro!"Luffy patted his butt and readjusted his posture.The two continued their pursuit, their figures quickly disappearing among the buildings.Led by Bally, Nami and Robin soon arrived at Iceburg's lounge.Seeing Bally covered in blood, Iceburg closed his eyes in pain:"Good work, Bally! Go and get some rest.""No, Mr. Iceburg being safe is more important than anything.""Sorry, could you give Nico Robin and me some time alone? Our conversation will only bring you disaster!"Nami and Robin exchanged a glance; Robin nodded."I'll be right outside. Call me if you need anything!"Nami closed the door."Nico Robin.""What? Have we met?""No, today is the first time. But I've always wanted to meet you. To make sure I didn't forget, I even posted your bounty poster in my room.""Do you want me to give you an autograph?" Robinsaid expressionlessly."That won't be necessary!"Iceburg suddenly pulled a gun from his clothes and pointed it at Robin."You called me here just to kill me?"Robin sat calmly in the chair; she sensed no murderous intent in Iceburg's eyes."That was the original plan—before you could destroy the world."Iceburg lowered the gun."What made you change your mind? Although many people want my life, what is your reason?""Bally was saved by you guys, wasn't he? Even though I told him to just throw it and run, I'm afraid he turned a deaf ear to my words."Iceburg looked at Robin solemnly."Nico Robin, what is your purpose in studying the poneglyphs? You must have known long ago that the World Government has a regulation stating that studying history is a capital crime!""You know about the poneglyphs too?"Robin was somewhat surprised."Just knowing isn't against the law! However, you are the only one left in this world who can decipher the poneglyphs, Nico Robin!That's why the government put such a high bounty on your head even though you were only eight years old! Because you are the only woman who can revive the ancient weapons."Robin: "Is that so? You even know about the ancient weapons!"Iceburg: "ancient weapons should not be awakened! Whether for justice or evil, ancient weapons will only bring destruction to the world."Robin: "I agree with you, but you're overstepping. How I study history is my freedom.I have no need to listen to the accusations of a stranger."Iceburg: "Not necessarily. In a sense, our positions are aligned because..."Iceburg paused."I have the blueprints for the ancient weapon, Pluton.""The blueprints for Pluton!" Robin was truly shocked this time."Pluton is the name of a battleship built on this island in ancient times!The shipwrights who once built it, feeling it was too powerful, worried that if its power ever went out of control...There must be a power to counter it, so they passed the blueprints down through the generations.Finally, the World Government took notice and has finally begun trying to seize it by force.""My master, Tom, was always concerned about the only surviving girl from Ohara twenty years ago.Therefore, having inherited the shipwrights' will, I have an obligation to stop you."Robin chuckled. "Even so, the revival of the ancient weapons is not something you or I can control. I've been to the moon.That is the origin of technological civilization. ancient weapons can be directly activated with a'spark'.So my existence or non-existence changes nothing. It would be the same even if you killed me.""Is that so? Well, they won't get them either!"*Click!*Suddenly, a door appeared on the wall, and Blueno, wearing a koala mask, was pressed against the wall.A man in a bull mask and another in a skull mask walked out from the space behind the door!"Is that so? You really did play us, Mr. Iceburg!"Lucci's cold voice echoed in the room.
Chapter 153: Robin's Capture Crisis"So, where should I start?"Lucci was the first to take off his mask, revealing his cold face."I've disappointed you, Mr. Iceburg."His voice was laced with irony."Lucci!"Iceburg's eyes widened, his mouth slightly agape, and cold sweat instantly soaked his back."It's all your fault! The government told you to hand it over, but you didn't, and that's why it's come to this!"Kaku also removed his skull mask, revealing his signature long nose."Kaku!"Iceburg turned his head in disbelief, his face as pale as paper.His gaze turned to the other two masked figures."If possible, I didn't want to hurt you and leave a good impression on this city."Kalifa elegantly removed her golden mask, her slender fingers gently brushing through her short blonde hair."Did you inherit your stubbornness from your master?"Blueno removed his koala mask, revealing a face that was terrifyingly calm."Are you all... people from the government?"Iceburg's voice faltered from shock, his fingers unconsciously gripping the bedsheets."Kalifa!"Lucci gave the order."Understood!"Kalifa's figure instantly vanished from where she stood, reappearing behind Robin in the next moment.She deftly grabbed Robin's wrist, and with a "click," the Sea Stone handcuffs were locked on."Na..."Before Robin could call for help, a towel was stuffed into her mouth, and her feet were promptly shackled as well.Robin let out a muffled whimper; if Nami were still pressed against the door, she might have heard the faint sound.But because of Iceburg's words, "Our conversation will only bring disaster to you," Nami had already retreated far to the other end of the hallway.Meanwhile, Luffy and Zoro were battling the gale by the coast."Those two guys, how did their presence just vanish here?"Luffy pressed down hard on his Straw Hat, his rubber body swaying in the strong wind."I have a bad feeling about this!"Zoro's green hair was blown into a mess as he squinted, trying to get his bearings."Where on earth is this place anyway!"Zoro roared at the sky, his voice quickly swallowed by the wind."Hey! Luffy, what do we do now?""Run toward the tallest building!" Luffy said decisively."Makes sense!"Zoro rubbed his chin and thought about it, finding the judgment reasonable."So... which path should we take?"He looked at the crisscrossing waterways, completely lost."Get up here first, Zoro!"Luffy used his rubber arms to pull Zoro onto the roof.Just as Zoro stood firm, a gust of wind almost blew him away; fortunately, he managed to hook his fingers into the corner of Luffy's mouth in time.The rubber mouth was stretched long, and Zorobarely stabilized himself with the help of his sword wedged into the tiles."The wind is too strong, Luffy! We should...""Gum-Gum..."Before Zoro could finish, Luffy had already wrapped his hand around his waist and grabbed the window sill of the building opposite with his other hand."Ah...!""Thud!"The two slammed directly into the wall; Luffy was unscathed, but Zoro was left with a head full of bumps."I knew it would end like this...! Can't you use a different way?"Zoro rubbed his head, looking very annoyed."Hee hee, let's go... Gum-Gum...""Hey, wait, wait a minute...! Ah!"Inside the government building, Lucci continued to give orders: "Kalifa, there's another one outside who should be their navigator; no need to hold back, take her out.""The Cat Burglar? Rumor has it she can discharge electricity! I wonder if it's true?"Kalifa cautiously put on a pair of insulated gloves."Well then, the hunt begins!"Kalifa adjusted her glasses, gently pushed past Blueno who was leaning against the wall, and elegantly stepped into the hallway.Nami stood at the end of the hallway, looking out the window with worry.The sky was pitch black, the streets were deserted, and only the wind whipped up newspapers, fluttering in the darkness."I wonder how Mark and the others are doing...""Miss Navigator, the weather is a bit chilly. Would you like me to get you a coat?"Kalifa maintained her image as a sharp and capable secretary."No need, thanks!"Nami looked at Kalifa warily; though she had no concrete evidence, her intuition told her the other woman was up to no good."You are friends of Mr. Iceburg, so you are my friends! Don't be so formal."Kalifa held a coat in both hands, making a move to drape it over Nami."Really, no need!"Nami waved her hands repeatedly in refusal."This coat is very expensive, it's a designer brand! If you like it, I'll give it to you!"Kalifa said with a smile."Really? What brand!"Nami pretended to be excited."Of course it's..."Kalifa suddenly attacked, her Shigan following the motion of draping the coat, piercing straight toward Nami's carotid artery."Clang!"The sound of metal clashing rang out."Heh, don't you think this fashionable outfit of mine doesn't match that tacky piece of junk of yours at all?"Nami accurately blocked the Shigan with her clima-tact!"Is there something wrong with your eyes? How dare you call me tacky. It seems you don't need your eyes, so why don't you give them to me!"Kalifa changed from one finger to two, swiftly gouging toward Nami's eyeballs.Nami leaned back to narrowly avoid it and performed a backflip in one smooth motion!As she flipped, her toes carried thunder, kicking directly at Kalifa's chin.Kalifa responded with a backflip as well, her movements clean and sharp!"Thunder! So the woman in the reports really is you! But in terms of Taijutsu! How could you possibly be a match for me, who has been trained since childhood! There is an unbridgeable gap between us!"Kalifa kicked out fiercely with her right leg!"Rankyaku!"This slashing attack blocked all of Nami's retreats; there was no room to dodge in the narrow corridor."Swish!"The slash split Nami in two from the waist, even cutting a crack into the wall behind her!"No matter how powerful your Taijutsu is, what's the use if it can't hit!"Lightning flickered where Nami had been cut, and her body instantly returned to its original state!"Thunderbird!"Nami released seven thunderbirds from her clima-tact, each carrying a hundred thousand volts, whistling toward Kalifa!"Kami-e!"Kalifa's body became as elusive as a piece of paper; the thunderbirds passed through her blurred figure and exploded in the hallway behind, instantly turning the hit area into scorched earth!A drop of cold sweat seeped from Kalifa's temple, but she still feigned composure: "You're right, it's meaningless if it doesn't hit.""Oh, is that so!"Lightning gathered at Nami's fingertips!Kalifa also drew her Thorn Whip, and the battle was about to erupt!In the lounge, Lucci listened to the commotion outside and said coldly, "It seems quite lively out there! Mr. Iceburg, let's get started as well!"He had his hands in his pockets, standing in a relaxed posture."You really did pull one over on us!"Lucci suddenly dropped his previous nonchalance, his whole body erupting with terrifying killing intent."Listen closely, Mr. Iceburg. Hand over the Pluton blueprints before more casualties occur!""I know you're feeling dejected right now, but we've been undercover for five years, and our mission deadline has arrived.""To complete the mission, we must use any means necessary.""Stop your pointless resistance!"Lucci continued, "You've heard the name Cipher Pol, haven't you?""It usually refers to CP1 through CP8, with eight bases in this world.""They are the government's elite intelligence agencies!""I know, but it only goes up to CP8!" After the initial shock, Iceburg was now unusually calm.Lucci: "Indeed! However, we are CP9. Because we have a special privilege, we cannot disclose our identities.""Privilege?"Iceburg was puzzled.Lucci: "Yes. It means that at any time, as long as it is in the name of justice, our killing is permitted."Iceburg said angrily, "Who would accept you killing people under the banner of justice!"Lucci: "Some in the government have woken up. Instead of worrying about Pluton's revival, it's better to find Pluton directly and let its revival put an end to this Great Pirate Era.""Let it become a force for justice.""But you refuse to cooperate with us. Do you know how many people are still being persecuted by pirates? You actually have the heart not to save them."Iceburg: "Impossible. Once the weapon is revived, it will fall into an endless struggle! It will only bring destruction to the world."Lucci: "It seems you don't trust the World Government, Mr. Iceburg."Iceburg: "I only believe in human nature, brat!"Lucci's eyes sharpened, and he turned with a flying kick that landed heavily on Iceburg's face. Iceburg flew backward, hit the wall, and slowly slid down.Lucci: "Watch your mouth. Do you still think I'm your subordinate?""Kaku, check his pulse. Blueno, take Nico Robin to the sea train, then come back to support us."Lucci ordered coldly."Then, excuse me!"Kaku walked toward Iceburg and placed his fingers on his pulse.Iceburg tried to struggle, but Kaku used Shigan to pierce two bloody holes in his body."Rest easy! I missed your vitals. I won't let you die until the test is over."Kaku said calmly.Just then, the door blew open with a bang!Kalifa flew backward into the room, her body scorched black.Nami, her body flickering with lightning, glared at everyone in the room:"Now then, what do you think you're doing to Robin!"
Chapter 154: Four Heroes Battle the Thunder"Robin!"Thunder symbols flickered violently in Nami's eyes, and her brilliant long golden hair stood on end due to the surging electric arcs, as if a thunder god had descended to the world."Mmph...!"Robin's mouth was tightly covered, and she could only desperately convey a message with her eyes, which were filled with terror and pleading:Run! These people are heartless killing machines!She would rather endure everything herself than see her companions fall into a desperate situation for her sake!"How dare you treat my companion like this! Where are Luffy and Zoro?"The clima-tact pointed directly at Lucci with resolute killing intent, as pale blue lightning hissed and crackled at its tip, illuminating Nami's determined profile."I never expected that the World Government's subordinates would all be lapdogs like you!"Are you prepared to pay the price for angering a Navigator?"Lucci elegantly adjusted his black top hat, his posture composed."Cat Burglar Nami, the intelligence reports indeed severely underestimated your growth. This power to control thunder is truly enviable."His voice suddenly turned cold."But I advise you to face reality. To make an enemy of us is to make an enemy of the entire world!""Heh,"Nami's cold laugh carried a hint of reckless madness."Stop talking big! If you dare touch my companions, I'll kill even a god for you to see! Lightning Spear!"A blinding pillar of lightning instantly tore through the air, shooting straight at Lucci with a destructive aura.Lucci used "Soru" to move at high speed, narrowly avoiding it, but a glaring scorch mark was still burned onto the brim of his hat."You're courting death!"His eyes sharpened as he flickered to Nami's side, throwing a heavy punch imbued with Armament Haki without mercy!(According to Lucci's vivre card, he already knew both types of Haki two years ago. It was only later that Oda remembered this setting; it would be too unreasonable if CP9 didn't know Haki.)However, the expected sensation of hitting a physical body did not come; his fist only shattered the gradually dissipating afterimage of lightning—Nami had already turned into a true bolt of lightning, appearing at the other end of the room."Haki?"Nami's heart tightened as she immediately realized the danger of this battle far exceeded her imagination."What? So fast! Is this the speed of lightning...?"Lucci's shock was equally significant. This elemental mode of movement had completely surpassed the scope of the Six Powers; it was an entirely different level of power."I can't fight him head-on! Cold Bubble! Hot Bubble!"A thick mist instantly spread out, and four illusions of Nami quietly emerged within it, making it impossible to tell the real from the fake."Paltry tricks."Lucci snorted coldly. Relying on his sharp Observation Haki, he completely ignored the illusions and precisely unleashed a sharp Rankyaku toward the empty space beside Robin."How do you... even know Observation Haki..."Nami was forced to reveal herself, her face full of shock.Though she was fast, Lucci's seasoned combat experience and Observation Haki predictions prevented her from fully utilizing her advantage.Lucci ignored her astonishment and turned to Kaku."What's Kalifa's condition?""Nothing serious, but she needs time to rest."Nami took the opportunity to quickly scan the room—Blueno was still firmly controlling the struggling Robin like an iron tower, while Mr. Iceburg lay powerlessly in the corner, his breathing weak.Her heart sank. She couldn't use large-scale destructive moves like Heaven's Punishment or Thunder Pool; they would affect her friends, and the entire building might collapse..."It seems you're well aware of your situation."Lucci seemed to see through her thoughts, his tone mocking."Having too many concerns is your weakness.""Soru!"Lucci's figure vanished again. Nami's pupils shrank, and she unhesitatingly transformed into lightning to shift positions once more!"Boom—!"Lightning and Haki-infused martial arts collided violently in mid-air, erupting in a startling shockwave.Nami was shaken back several steps, her arms numb, while Lucci's shoulder took a solid hit from the lightning-wrapped staff.However, under his exquisite Armament Hakidefense, this thunderous strike—enough to knock down an ordinary captain—had its effect greatly diminished."Your speed is indeed impressive,"Lucci threw away his damaged hat and massaged his numb shoulder, his gaze growing colder."But speed doesn't represent everything."In the next moment, his body began to undergo a blood-curdling and terrifying mutation.His bones made a tooth-aching "crackling" sound, and his frame expanded rapidly, tearing and shredding his well-tailored suit!Solid muscles bulged like coiled dragons, and clear, wild leopard spots emerged on his skin as his nails lengthened into razor-sharp claws—In an instant, he had completely transformed into a half-man, half-leopard killing machine.A sense of oppression, far more powerful, primal, and violent than before, swept through the entire room like a physical tsunami!"Is this... is this the true strength of CP9?"Lying in the corner, Iceburg's pupils contracted sharply, and all color drained from his face.This pure, predatory beastly aura made it difficult for him to breathe, almost to the point of suffocation.Robin, who was pinned down, was filled with unprecedented terror and despair. She knew better than anyone present what Lucci meant in this form: destruction and cruelty.She looked at Nami, who still stood stubbornly, fighting for her despite being surrounded by powerful enemies. The warning in Robin's eyes had long been drowned out by overwhelming self-reproach and pleading—It was all because of her! If it weren't to protect her, Nami could have easily escaped this desperate situation with her lightning speed! She had once again dragged a cherished companion into the abyss!"I have to... use that move!"Nami suppressed the shock in her heart, her eyes instantly turning to a resolute determination to burn her bridges.She bit her lower lip and frantically poured her remaining strength and all her lightning power into the clima-tact!The staff trembled violently as if it couldn't withstand the pressure, bursting with an unprecedented, blinding lightning.The crackling, violent electric arcs cast a deathly pale light over her entire body, as if she herself were about to become part of the thunder!"Thunder Dragon!"With a scream of all her might, an incredibly solid, lifelike, and ferocious Thunder Dragon roared and shot toward Lucci!It was no longer a simple energy body; its core compressed the destructive lightning of Heaven's Punishment, emitting heart-stopping waves of destruction.Its speed had completely surpassed the limits of physical reaction, almost at the very moment of its birth.Like a true divine judgment, it bared its fangs and claws as it lunged at the beast-form Lucci!Lucci's beastly pupils suddenly contracted into dangerous pinpoints. The speed of this attack and the intensity of the energy within it far exceeded any of his previous estimates!"I can't dodge it!"This thought flashed through his mind like a spark of flint.At the critical moment, he could only cross his arms, covered in thick Armament Haki, in front of him, choosing to meet this destructive blow head-on!"Tekkai: Steel!""BOOM!!!"A deafening explosion rang out as the lightning completely burst, swallowing Lucci's figure.He was violently blown away by the massive impact, crashing heavily into the wall behind him like a cannonball, the wall instantly spider-webbing with cracks.As the smoke cleared slightly, the leopard skin on his upper body was seen to be extensively charred and ulcerated. He suddenly opened his mouth, and a thick puff of black smoke emerged.That massive beastly body began to shrink rapidly, reverting to human form, before he finally collapsed powerlessly to his knees and fell forward."Lucci!""How is this possible!"Kaku and Blueno exclaimed in unison. Without any hesitation, the two launched their attacks instantly!"Rankyaku!""Tekkai: Smash!"Two powerful attacks came from different directions. Nami, who had just released her ultimate move and was in a moment of exhaustion, barely twisted her body to dodge Kaku's vacuum slash.But she was hit squarely in the back by Blueno's massive, Haki-wrapped punch!"Pfft—!"She felt as if her internal organs had been displaced, and a mouthful of blood sprayed out uncontrollably.Her whole body slammed hard against the solid wall and then slid down powerlessly, the clima-tactrolling away to the side."Shigan!"A cold light flashed in Kaku's eyes. Using "Soru," he instantly arrived at the spot where Nami had slid down, his finger piercing straight toward her heart like a steel spear!If this strike hit, there would be absolutely no chance of survival!"Mmph...!"Robin's gaze was almost tearing apart. Endless regret and self-reproach gnawed at her heart like poisonous snakes—It's happening again! Is the tragedy of Ohara going to repeat itself? People around her always suffer misfortune because of her!She shouldn't have harbored extravagant hopes in the first place; she shouldn't have believed she could have companions!At this life-or-death moment!"It's not over yet!"Nami suddenly raised her head. Blood seeped from the corners of her mouth, but the lightning in her eyes remained undiminished!She forcibly condensed blinding lightning in her palm once more, narrowly and instinctively dodging the lethal Shigan by tilting her body.Simultaneously, her other hand, carrying her full strength and all remaining lightning, delivered a resounding Thunderous Slap!"Slap!"With an incredibly crisp explosion and jumping electric arcs, Kaku was sent spinning through the air by that lightning-infused slap.Uncannily, he collided right into Lucci, who was struggling to stand up!The two immediately tumbled together like rolling gourds, crashing into the wall again in a pathetic state.Blueno didn't give Nami any chance to breathe!He immediately used "Soru" to close in on Namiagain, his Armament Haki-covered fist carrying a foul wind as it smashed directly toward Nami's pale face!Nami hurriedly grabbed the clima-tact beside her to block with difficulty."Clang!"The massive difference in strength made it impossible for her to steady herself. Her entire body was slammed against the already cracked wall behind her by the powerful force, causing her blood and energy to churn again.She knelt on one knee, breathing heavily. Sweat, blood, and dust mixed together, clinging to her face and body.Continuous peak output and high-intensity combat had left her physical and mental strength on the verge of exhaustion.She could only grit her teeth, using the instantaneous mobility granted by lightning and her exquisite staff techniques to fight and retreat, trying to open up distance and gain even a sliver of recovery time.However, while Nami was desperately recovering, Lucci and Kaku were also quickly regaining their state, thanks to their superior physiques and "Life Return" techniques.Lucci patted the charred and cracked skin on his body. The scabs crumbled away, revealing new, pinkish-white healthy skin underneath."A Logia, and the most violent lightning power at that... truly troublesome."He shook his arms, the killing intent in his eyes growing even more intense.As soon as he finished speaking, Nami forcibly surged her lightning. Her figure flickered to open up several meters of distance, and ignoring the sharp pain in her arm, she fired a precise Lightning Spearat Blueno!"Agh—!"Unable to dodge in time, Blueno's shoulder was instantly pierced by the lightning. He let out a shrill cry and stumbled back, but with his iron-like will, he stubbornly refused to fall.Just then, the door was slammed open from the outside!Bari, who had been resting in the room next door, was jolted awake by the continuous loud noises and vibrations.Holding onto the doorframe, he looked at the scene of wreckage and tension before him, his mind reeling:"Hey! Lucci, Kaku... Kalifa? What... what on earth is going on?!""They are undercover agents sent by the World Government!"Nami took advantage of this brief gap to explain urgently to him."Mr. Iceburg, is this true? Who injured you like this!"Hearing this, Bari was both shocked and enraged, instinctively wanting to rush toward Iceburg."Don't come over, Bally!"Iceburg shouted with all his remaining strength, his voice hoarse and strained."Run! Go find the other members of the Straw Hatcrew! You... you're no match for Lucci and the others!""But...!"Bari looked at the heavily injured Iceburg and the captive Robin, his face full of conflict."No buts! They're CP9; the strength gap is too large! Go! That's an order!"Iceburg's voice was sharp with urgency.Bari clenched his fists tightly, finally stomped his foot, and turned to sprint toward the main door!"Trying to run? Too late! Everyone, attack together and finish this quickly!"Lucci gave the cold order, being the first to flicker to Nami's side and throw a punch.Nami didn't dare take it head-on and transformed into lightning to dodge again.However, before Bari could even make it out the door, he was caught by the faster Kaku!With two dull squelches of blades entering flesh, Kaku's twin swords slashed a startling "X" shaped wound across Bari's broad back, blood spraying out instantly!"Aargh!"Bari cried out in pain, his forward momentum stalling.Immediately after, Blueno, enduring his shoulder injury, delivered a heavy kick to the center of his back!Bari was launched like a projectile from a catapult, spitting blood as he crashed through wall after wall like a heavy cannonball.Finally, he fell from the towering office building, hitting the ground at the main entrance on the first floor with a heavy thud, his fate unknown.After this commotion, on the other side, the unconscious Kalifa also slowly woke up.She struggled to prop herself up. Though her steps were unsteady and her face pale, after a moment of regulating her breathing, her gaze regained its fighting spirit; she clearly still had the strength to fight.Nami looked at the four CP9 elites before her, who were gradually recovering and forming a pincer movement again, and her heart went cold.Luffy... Zoro... where on earth are you?She gritted her teeth, squeezing out the very last bit of strength in her body.Just hold on a little longer... it'll be fine once they arrive!But reality was cruel.The ensuing battle became a complete one-sided suppression.Lightning flickered and figures flew within the room. Nami fought with all her might to maneuver, but the thorns of the Briar Whip left countless fine bloody gashes on her body.In the end, she couldn't create a miracle. After being pinned down by Lucci's precise and heavy Rankyaku—Kaku's Shigan struck again. This time, she couldn't dodge in time, and her shoulder was instantly pierced, leaving a second hideous bloody hole!The intense pain caused her movements to stall, creating a gap in her defense."It's over."Lucci's cold voice rang in her ear like a death knell.In the next moment, a massive kick wrapped in top-tier Armament Haki slammed into her abdomen like a heavy cannon!"Pfft—!"Nami felt as if her internal organs had been shattered by that kick, and blood sprayed uncontrollably from her mouth.Like a puppet with its strings cut, she was carried by the immense force and flew straight out of the large hole in the wall that Bari had made, falling powerlessly toward the ground below.Amidst the falling wind and the sense of weightlessness that seemed infinitely prolonged, Nami's vision blurred, and intense pain swept through every cell of her body.With trembling, blood-stained hands, she struggled to pull out that small transponder snail from her bosom.Blood dripped continuously, blurring her vision until the world in her eyes was nothing but a sea of red.Yet, relying on her stubborn will, she used the last of her faint strength to press the only communication button."Mark... save... Robin..."The plea for help, so faint it was almost inaudible, was transmitted along with static.Immediately after, her body slammed heavily onto the hard, cold ground below with a dull thud, and the rising dust slowly swallowed her.Inside the room, Lucci slowly stood up straight. The muscles under the charred skin on his chest twitched strangely, his injuries further improving under the effect of "Life Return."He looked coldly out the window. The apocalyptic roar of the Gods of Water was drawing closer, and the gale had already begun to batter the glass."We need to hurry!"His voice was brook no argument, carrying a coldness that put the mission above all else.And on the ground, the transponder snail in Nami's hand finally connected, carrying Mark's anxious shouts...
Chapter 155: Cutty Flam and CP9's True Goal"Kaku, continue." Lucci's voice was cold as a winter's blade, devoid of any human emotion."OK—Mr. Iceburg, please cooperate."Kaku's hand gripped Iceburg's wrist without mercy, the tension causing Iceburg to break out in a cold sweat instantly.Lucci slowly turned around, his bare torso still showing the scorch marks from Nami's lightning."We've made a hypothesis, Mr. Iceburg."A flash of undisguised terror crossed Iceburg's eyes, and his throat swallowed involuntarily."Don't worry, this isn't an interrogation."The corner of Lucci's mouth curled into an almost imperceptible arc."You only need to listen quietly; you don't even have to answer."He suddenly leaned in close, his cold gaze piercing into Iceburg's eyes with the precision of a scalpel."Your heartbeat, your blood flow, every reaction of your body will tell us the truth."Cold sweat instantly soaked the back of Iceburg's shirt, and he found it difficult to breathe."You deliberately gave the wrong location for the blueprints because you guessed long ago that the World Government wanted to seize them from you."Lucci's voice suddenly shifted, carrying the playful tone of a cat toy with a mouse."But have you ever thought, what if it really was some enemy coming to assassinate you, and assuming the assassination actually succeeded?"He paused deliberately, letting fear spread silently in the stillness."Heh..."Lucci's low laughter echoed in the room."The Pluton blueprints passed down for centuries, the life's work of Tom's Workers, would be completely lost with your generation."He crouched down, meeting Iceburg's eyes as he sat in the chair."Strangely, at the moment of life and death, you didn't give the true blueprints to Nico Robin, nor did you entrust them to your most trusted shipwright, Bari."Lucci suddenly reached out and grabbed Iceburg's chin, forcing him to look up."There is only one explanation—you gave them long ago to... someone we don't know about."Iceburg was terrified and tried to pull back his clamped hand!*Crack!*Kaku's fingers suddenly exerted force, and Iceburg's arm bone snapped.The intense pain made Iceburg let out a shrill scream, but within that scream, his drum-like heartbeat echoed even more clearly in the room.Kaku gave Lucci a slight nod—the deduction was correct.Lucci closed his eyes in contemplation, as if recalling every detail."For five whole years, our surveillance of you never slackened.""Every visitor you had, every time you went out, it's all in our records."He suddenly pulled out a yellowed drawing—it was the final page of the fake blueprints."Tom, Iceburg, Cutty Flam... and this 'Tom's Workers' signature, it was indeed made flawlessly."Lucci's gaze locked onto Iceburg's pale face like a hawk."Unfortunately, you never expected that in the fifth year of our infiltration,""we actually heard of someone calling himself 'Cutty Flam' coming to find you."Lucci's voice suddenly rose, like a drawn sword."The fact is—Tom's other disciple, Cutty Flam, who was supposed to have died eight years ago, is still alive!""He now goes by the name... Franky!"Iceburg's blood seemed to freeze completely at this moment; only that out-of-control heartbeat had already admitted everything for him."So, the real Pluton blueprints have been with your junior disciple all along."Lucci slowly stood up, his tone icy. "Sorry, Mr. Iceburg, you are no longer of any value."Just as Kaku was about to deliver the killing blow—"Nami! Robin! Where are you?!"Luffy's highly penetrating shout came from downstairs, breaking the silence of the night."Perfect timing. Using a dying man's waste value, you can stall this group so I have enough time to catch your junior disciple."A glint flashed in Lucci's eyes as he grabbed a pen from the desk and precisely, cruelly stabbed it into Iceburg's lung!"Agh!" Iceburg let out a painful howl, blood instantly staining the front of his shirt."If there's a top-tier doctor and you get treatment within half an hour, you might still survive."Lucci's cold laugh was filled with cruel amusement, followed by a precise hand-chop that directly damaged Iceburg's vocal cords."Unable to speak, and unable to write with a broken arm... make good use of your final lingering heat.""Lucci."Blueno reported from the doorway, "According to intelligence, their number two has moved out alone.""Very good! Everything is proceeding according to plan."Lucci took the lead, and Blueno immediately pushed open an invisible Air Door.Lucci, taking the restrained Robin, Kaku, and the newly awakened Kalifa, quickly disappeared into the ripples within the door.When Mark received that communication mixed with static and a weak cry for help, he felt his heart almost stop beating."Mark... save... Robin..."Nami's voice, thin as a thread, still echoed in his ears as he unhesitatingly opened the Rainbow Passage.The night wind let out a sharp shriek in his ears, blowing his long black hair into a wild dance.His blue eyes, which usually held a bit of playfulness, now held only total anxiety and cold killing intent, trailing two terrifying red streaks in the dim light of the city.Almost at the same moment, the wall on the first floor of the City Hall shattered with a deafening explosion!"Nami! Robin! Where are you?!"Luffy, utilizing the elasticity of the gum-gum fruit, crashed in like a human cannonball with Zoro in tow.However, the sight before them made their movements freeze instantly.In the wide courtyard, the bodies of shipwrights lay scattered about, clearly having undergone a fierce battle.And at the center of this mess, that familiar blue T-shirt and white skirt were like a cruel focal point, searing their eyes—Nami lay motionless on the cold ground, beneath her a pool of dark red blood that had not yet completely solidified.Her usually vibrant long orange hair was now limply scattered, covered in dust and bloodstains, and that face that was always high-spirited was now pale as paper."...Nami?"For the first time, Luffy's voice carried a near-blank trembling; he could hardly believe his eyes.Zoro's reaction was faster. The green-haired swordsman appeared beside Nami like a ghost, bringing a gust of wind.He didn't move her recklessly, but knelt on one knee, checking her condition with extreme care.When he gently supported her head and neck, those hands that were always steady actually had an almost imperceptible tremor."Nami!"Luffy only then seemed to wake from a nightmare, rushing over in a few steps, his rubber body causing him to nearly collapse to the ground.He looked at his weak companion, his outstretched hand stopping in mid-air, seemingly afraid that a touch would bring a worse result.As if hearing her companion's call, Nami's eyelashes fluttered violently, and she used all her strength to force her eyelids open a crack.Her vision could no longer focus, wandering blurredly over the figures before her, eventually recognizing that familiar Straw Hat by instinct."Luf... fy...?"Her voice was as thin as a thread, every word seeming to be squeezed from between her teeth."Quick... go... save Robin... they... are CP9..."Before she could finish, her head limply tilted to the side, her last bit of strength exhausted as she fell into a deep coma."Nami! Nami!" Luffy called out anxiously a few times, but received no response.An indescribable, blazing fury erupted from the depths of his heart like a volcanic explosion!He snapped his head up, the eyes beneath the shadow of the Straw Hat no longer clear as usual, but swirling with a near-tangible black storm."AHHHHH—!!!!"A roar like a wounded lion's erupted from deep in Luffy's throat, the sound waves vibrating the surrounding rubble and debris.This roar contained endless anger, self-blame, and a primal rage determined to tear everything apart!"CP9!!! I'm going to send you all flying!!!"Zoro gently laid Nami's head down and slowly stood up.There was no exaggerated expression on his face, but those sharp eyes emitted a piercing chill.He didn't roar like Luffy, but the pressure accumulating in that silence was more suffocating than any scream.Just then, a dark shadow arrived with a sudden, rapid whistling sound!Mark's figure solidified beside the two.At first glance, he saw Nami lying on the ground and the striking pool of blood beneath her, his crimson pupils suddenly contracting."Nami!"He whispered, immediately crouching down to check carefully, his tone urgent and cold."Multiple fractures, internal bleeding... she must be treated immediately!"He suddenly slapped his cheek hard, his tone filled with self-blame."Damn it! Chopper is still at the shelter!"Then, a weak call came from the greenery outside the main gate: "Straw... Hat..."The blood-covered Bally struggled to crawl out from the bushes, clearly having also been through a hard fight."Save... Iceburg..." Before he could finish, he fainted again due to his heavy injuries, his finger still pointing upstairs."Those bastards!!!"Luffy charged toward the stairs like a cannonball, with Zoro close behind, wado ichimonji already three inches out of its sheath.Mark quickly opened the Rainbow Space, carefully sending Nami and Bally inside, then swiftly followed his companions.Inside Iceburg's lounge, the tragic scene made the three of them gasp.Iceburg lay in a pool of blood, a pen stuck in his chest, his left arm twisted at an unnatural angle, and visible bruising on his throat.However, shockingly, this critically injured and dying mayor was using his still-mobile right leg to struggle to pull down his own pants."What is he doing?" Zoro frowned.When Iceburg finally revealed the iconic black underwear inside, Luffy immediately exclaimed:"The same underwear as Franky!""They're looking for Franky!"Mark instantly understood the meaning of this body language and immediately pulled out a transponder snail to connect."Sanji! Emergency!"Mark's speaking speed was extremely fast."CP9 has heavily injured Nami and taken Robin, and now their next target is likely Franky!"The other end of the line fell into a moment of suffocating silence, a silence brief yet so heavy it felt like a century had passed.Then, Sanji's voice came through; it was like a volcano forced beneath a layer of ice.Abnormally calm, yet every word carried a scorching killing intent:"Make it clear, Miss Nami and Miss Robin... what exactly happened to them? Who is the enemy?"This extremely restrained reaction instead revealed the surging storm within him.Mark immediately realized the situation and explained at high speed:"It's CP9! Lucci, Kaku, and the others disguised themselves as shipwrights and used the Door-Door Fruit at the City Hall to catch us off guard!Nami fought a hard battle alone to save Robin and is heavily injured and unconscious... Robin was taken by them!Their next target is likely Franky and the Plutonblueprints! What's the situation on your end?""Long-nose and I are at the Franky House right now. It's windy and rainy outside, but it's currently quiet..."Sanji's voice remained calm, but the faint yet rapid click of a lighter could be heard as he lit a cigarette."...In other words, those bastards are coming our way after hurting two ladies, is that it?"Beneath this calm confirmation was magma about to burst."Exactly! They're likely to use Blueno's Door-Door Fruit ability to appear directly where you are!"Mark warned urgently."Luffy and Zoro will head there to support you immediately! Nami and Mr. Iceburg's injuries are extremely severe, I must take them to find Chopperfor treatment right away!""Understood."Sanji's voice was low and resolute."Tell that idiot Marimo not to run too fast! Don't come over until I've kicked every bone of those bastards to pieces!"This seemingly habitual bickering was now filled with unquestionable killing intent and a determination to protect.He followed up immediately, his tone returning to a tactical calm:"We'll hold this place and wait for you to regroup. Tell that idiot Captain to rest easy.""Before I take back Miss Robin and avenge Miss Nami, I will never let a single member of CP9... leave the Franky House alive!""We'll be there soon!"Mark ended the call and turned to Luffy and Zoro."Sanji and Usopp""are already at the Franky House, but they'll be facing at least four CP9 elites. The situation is critical!"Luffy nodded heavily, the gaze under his Straw Hatsharp as a knife, unprecedented anger and determination burning within."I know! Zoro, let's go!"Zoro had already gripped the hilt of wado ichimonji."Do you even need to say it? Let's move!"As Mark took Iceburg into the Rainbow Space, he shouted to his two companions:"I'll be there as soon as I've settled the wounded! Be extremely careful! The opponents are government killing machines; their strength is no joke!"Luffy nodded heavily, his gaze under the Straw Hatsharp as a knife.Chopper was anxiously peering out of the tightly sealed window in the shelter."Mark! Where did you go?""There must be an emergency, let's wait patiently!" Merry patted Chopper's shoulder.No one noticed that a more secretive and dangerous conspiracy, aimed at one of them, was quietly approaching along with this storm—And CP9's true target was currently safe and sound within this seemingly secure sanctuary.
Chapter 156: Chain Abductions in the StormFranky's secret base—Deep within a white stone wall at the junction of the Backstreets and the Main Street, a completely sealed iron door thoroughly isolated this rectangular space from the outside world.Inside, a small door connected to a corridor in the sewers; Franky usually honed his shipbuilding skills in this place.If it weren't for meeting Luffy and the others, no one would have known that this notorious "pervert" actually possessed exquisite shipbuilding craftsmanship.Sanji slowly closed the transponder snail, the pale blue flames beneath his feet flaring uncontrollably, searing scorch marks into the stone floor—That was his uncontrollable rage burning."You all heard that call just now, didn't you?"His back was to Franky and Usopp, the dim light from the warehouse ceiling cutting diagonally across his face.It split his expression into light and shadow—One half was a furious killing intent, the other a calm concern for his comrades.Franky sat upright on that patched-up green sofa, and behind his two-meter-tall frame, the Cutty Flams Sisters stood with worried expressions."It seems nothing can be hidden anymore. With those people's methods... Iceburg must have suffered a lot."This Cyborg, usually prone to exaggerated antics, had put away all his signature poses tonight, his mechanical face filled with gravity."Don't worry, our ship doctor Chopper will definitely heal them!"Usopp patted Franky on the shoulder to comfort him, then turned to Sanji."Um, Sanji, I know you're hurting! But... can you dial back your anger first?""If the floor burns through, we'll have to find a new place.""Phew..."Sanji exhaled a thick cloud of smoke; after Usopp's reminder, the flames beneath his feet dissipated quite a bit."I'm going to kick every single one of those bastards' bones to pieces!""Hey, cook-bro, I'm afraid you don't know what CP9 represents, do you?"Franky folded his mechanical hands into a fist, resting his chin lightly on them as he thought solemnly."Cipher Pol No. 9, a secret intelligence agency directly under the World Government.""Those guys have undergone hellish training since they were old enough to understand... and were forced to kill each other—""Only those who survive are qualified to be members of CP...""That's enough, Franky."Sanji slowly turned around, looking up as the smoke rings he blew caught the light, creating a faint rainbow halo."I'll tell you the truth: since you're joining us, even if we face an Admiral, you've got to have the guts to draw your sword."Franky stood up abruptly, his mechanical body making clanking sounds."Guts? My guts were smashed by that sea trainyears ago!""Who have I ever been afraid of? I'm just reminding you not to underestimate the enemy, or you'll trip up."A man who dared to stop a sea train head-on back then would certainly understand what a hard fight was; he just didn't want to see his comrades fall."Hey! You're not going to block the sea train like that frog Yokozuna, are you?"*Ding-ling... ding-ling!*The doorbell suddenly rang; it was a simple setup where pulling a rope outside rang a bell inside."They're here!"The three of them instantly entered a combat stance.Usopp quickly stuffed a tyrant iron steel ball into his pouch and pulled the rubber band back hard;Franky's right palm folded at a ninety-degree angle, revealing a dark cannon muzzle;Sanji crushed his cigarette butt with his toe and walked toward the door with steady steps."I'll open the door. Don't fire blindly."Sanji's voice was cold. "Don't accidentally hurt Miss Robin."If you hurt Miss Robin, I won't forgive you.Ding-ling, ding-ling!The doorbell continued to ring stubbornly.Usopp's cold sweat slid down his cheek into his collar; his legs were shaking, but he stood his ground.The moment Sanji's hand gripped the doorknob, he stepped back half a pace with his heel, ready to kick at any second—As long as the first figure outside wasn't Robin, he would show no mercy.The door was pulled open abruptly, a black figure burst into view, and Sanji kicked out without a second thought!Wait!Franky's shout of restraint rang out just in time.The tip of the shoe stopped abruptly just one centimeter from Zambai's nose, the strong wind blowing his hair straight back.Zambai, you bastard, can't you make a sound?! I almost sent you for plastic surgery, you idiot!Franky cursed at the squad leader at the door."That scared the life out of me! I almost died!"Zambai came to his senses, patting his chest with a look of lingering fear."Tsk, sorry about that."Sanji withdrew his foot and took out another cigarette, placing it in his mouth, but the wind outside was too strong to light it."Boss, did you forget this door is soundproof?"Zambai waved off Sanji's apology and hurried past him to Franky's side, leaning in nervously."It's bad, Boss! Didn't you tell me to go outside to meet Straw Hat Luffy?"Just as he finished speaking, a pair of underwear was blown in by the wind, landing directly on his face."Ptooey, ptooey! Damn it, it's curly!"Zambai snatched the pink underwear off and spat out a curly hair."Boss, look for yourself. This wind is ridiculously strong, it wasn't like this in previous years! I don't know if our base can hold out this year."Franky frowned, his fingertips tapping his mechanical arm."Speaking of which, this year's Gods of Water is indeed different from before...""Keep monitoring, especially the water level. If you encounter Straw Hat, bring him here. The Great Tsunami will arrive around two in the morning; there are still a few hours.""Watch the roof," Sanji said, his back to the door, still struggling with his lighter."With Luffy around, that guy won't take the usual path.""Got it, Boss!"Zambai said as he immediately ran out."It's really enviable. Back in the day, I also had eight thousand subordinates..."Usopp began his bragging again, but this time, his voice clearly carried an unmaskable tension.Luffy and Zoro indeed didn't take the usual path—they didn't even use the rooftops.On the way to the Franky House, they unexpectedly encountered that deep blue swordfish Bull, which was carrying a small boat on its back.For some reason, it had swum to the central district on this night when the storm was approaching."Ah, Zoro, look!"Luffy recognized his old friend at a glance and, without a word, grabbed the running Zoro by his back collar and jumped down from a bridge over ten meters high."You... bastard! I'll... cut you... sooner or later... *cough cough*."Zoro's eyes rolled back as his clothes choked him; his limbs flailed in the air, and tears streamed down his face.*Thud!*The two landed accurately on the small boat Bull was carrying."Haha! Long time no see, Bull!"Luffy happily patted Bull's round head, and the latter smiled back, revealing two rows of pearly white teeth."Hey, how can you still laugh at a time like this?""And why aren't we staying on land? Why do we have to ride this strange creature?"Zoro angrily pulled at Luffy's rubbery mouth."Because this is more fun! Besides, he's not a strange creature, his name is Bull, and he's really fast!"Luffy explained indistinctly, his rubber cheeks stretched long.Zoro let go of Luffy's mouth and sat up straight, huffing as he closed his eyes."You'd better pray he doesn't get lost.""Don't worry! Bull won't get lost! All right, let's go, Bull!"Luffy raised a fist to the sky, full of high spirits.However, the swordfish Bull didn't move."Eh? What's wrong? Are you hungry?""I'll have Sanji make you some super delicious Mizu Mizu Meat later.""Idiot!"Zoro whacked Luffy's head with his scabbard."It's the destination! You didn't even say where we're going; how is this guy supposed to know?""Oh! I see!"Luffy smacked his palm in realization, then fell back into thought."Um, what was that place called..."He rubbed his temples, trying hard to remember."Oh! It's the home of that guy who only wears underwear and is always saying'super super'!"Luffy finally recalled Franky's appearance and shouted excitedly."Hey, do you really think it's human? There's no way it'll understand that!"Zoro stood up helplessly."Let's just stick to the shore!"Just then, Bull let out a cry like a horse's whinny and shot forward like an arrow from a bow.Due to inertia, Zoro stumbled and almost fell into the canal, but fortunately, Luffy pulled him back at the critical moment.Meanwhile, inside the Shelter, Chopper was still anxiously looking outside through a fist-sized observation port."It feels like the storm is really coming! I wonder how everyone is doing now..."Chopper picked up a piece of white pastry and stuffed it into his mouth, a small ball bulging in his cheek as he muttered while chewing."They must be saying right now: 'If only Doctor Chopper were here! Hee-hee! I really am the core of the Straw Hat Pirates.'"His eyes suddenly lit up, and he began to talk to himself."What? Doctor? Are you calling me?""Even if you call me that, I won't be happy, you bastard!"As he spoke, he began his signature clapping dance."I'm the Great Captain Cho-bro of the Straw Hat Pirates, right! Merry!"Chopper performed for quite a while, waiting for Merry's praise."..."The only response was the angry glares of several nearby refugees who had been woken up, along with the sound of rising and falling snores.Chopper turned his head toward the clean blanket and found no one there.The nearby coffee was still steaming, and there was half a biscuit left on the table."Merry?"Chopper called out tentatively."Merry, are you playing hide-and-seek with me?"Chopper began to search everywhere, a hint of unease in his voice."Hey, what are you doing! Where did this raccoon come from? Stop causing trouble!"An old man whose blanket had been pulled back by Chopper roared angrily."Mister, have you seen a little girl about my height with a yellow cloak, blue eyes, and a small nose?"Chopper didn't have time to argue about the name he was called and asked urgently.At this moment, Chopper felt like the sky was falling.If he lost Merry, how could he explain it to Mark and Luffy?Tears welled up in his eyes, but he suppressed his sadness and began searching the floor one by one for Merry.He thought to himself that since this place was completely sealed, no one could get out; Merry must still be inside.However, what Chopper didn't realize was that the enemy possessed the power of the Door-Door Fruit.If Blueno had continued his undercover work, he would have been one of the members in this Shelter, so he knew the environment like the back of his hand.Even worse, the spot Mark and the others had chosen was right in a corner against the wall—This provided excellent cover for Blueno's actions.While Chopper was entertaining himself, Bluenotook advantage of the fact that most people were fast asleep and silently opened a spatial door.Considering the target might be of the lunarian race, to ensure nothing went wrong, Lucci directly entered his beast-human form in advance.The moment the door opened, he used an extremely fast "Soru" to flash to Merry's side.Neither Merry nor Chopper had mastered Observation Haki, making them completely defenseless.Lucci immediately covered Merry's mouth with a towel soaked in anesthetic, kicked off with his front foot while facing away from the spatial door, and launched himself backward.The entire process took less than a second, and the kidnapping mission was complete.After the spatial door closed silently, only Chopperwas left alone in the Shelter to endure the glares of the crowd.Chopper stood blankly on the spot, his nose catching the lingering scent of the anesthetic. Looking at the empty white rug, he finally realized what a terrible thing had happened."Merry..."He murmured to himself, and large teardrops finally rolled down.At that moment, Chopper suddenly wiped away his tears with his hoof, his gaze becoming determined."Now is not the time to cry! I'm a doctor, and more importantly, I'm everyone's comrade! I must inform Luffy and the others immediately!"Just as Chopper was about to rush to the door, iridescent ripples suddenly appeared in the corner.A Rainbow Passage slowly unfolded in the air, and Mark's figure stepped out quickly.His originally urgent expression froze the moment he saw Chopper's tear-streaked face.Chopper? What happened? Where's Merry?Chopper suddenly lunged into Mark's arms, his small hooves tightly clutching Mark's collar, his voice so choked with sobs he could barely speak a complete sentence:Mark... Merry, Merry is gone! Just now... she suddenly disappeared... I smelled the scent of anesthetic. *Waaaah!*Mark's body suddenly stiffened, his hurried steps coming to a dead halt.He looked around at the empty bedding, then at the trembling little reindeer in his arms. A deep sense of self-reproach and pain instantly gripped Mark's heart.He knelt on one knee, gently patting Chopper's back, his voice low and raspy:"It's all my fault... I shouldn't have left you two here alone..."He suppressed the shock and anger within him, trying to keep his tone steady,Chopper, this isn't your fault. It's CP9... they used the power of the Door-Door Fruit...At this point, Mark suddenly tightened his arms, pulling Chopper into a tight hug.His voice carried an unmaskable pain, yet it was filled with a reassuring strength:"Don't be afraid. We will definitely get Merry back. I swear it."Tonight, the Straw Hat crew faced an unprecedented crisis.Nami had collapsed from heavy injuries, Robin had fallen into enemy hands, and the Ship Spirit Merryhad not been spared either.CP9's conspiracy spread like a giant net; their goal was not only the blueprints for Pluton but also the legendary lunarian race bloodline.In Franky's secret base, Sanji's rage burned beneath a calm exterior;On the canal, Luffy and Zoro were racing in an unconventional manner;And inside the Shelter, Chopper's self-reproach and Mark's pain intertwined into a heavy movement.Everyone faced their own trial in this sudden storm.However, true pirates never bow their heads in a desperate situation.The "Gods of Water" could destroy buildings, but it could not break their determination to protect one another—Because on this sea, the most powerful thing is never the storms or the giant waves, but the unbreakable bond between comrades.