Chapter 168: Storming the Courtroom, Werewolf vs. Rubber ManAt the top of the Tower of Justice, inside Spandam's private lounge, a strange tranquility lingered, completely out of place with the brutal battlefield outside.Thick soundproof walls isolated the shouts of killing and the roar of battle.Deeply immersed in the illusion of security brought by his power, Spandam was completely unaware that the main island was already in total chaos.His back was turned to the massive floor-to-ceiling window. Outside was Enies Lobby's iconic giant scales, which in his eyes at this moment, seemed to symbolize that his power was about to achieve balance.He gently stroked the golden transponder snail in his hand and whispered to the elephant-swordFunkfreed, who was still in animal form eating fruit."Look at this, Funkfreed."He carefully cradled the glittering golden transponder snail in his palm.Under the indoor lighting, the gold flowed with a heavy and seductive luster."This tiny creature is a supreme credential on par with the privilege of 'initiating a Buster Call'!"His voice trembled slightly."Only big shots at the level of Admiral or above are qualified to grant such 'authority to slaughter'... Although that guy Aokiji only 'lent' it to me temporarily for the sake of the mission..."His tone shifted, his eyes filled with infinite longing and greed for the future:"But as long as this mission succeeds and Nico Robin and that precious member of the lunarian race are smoothly handed over, my status will surely skyrocket!""At that time, I will rise to a height where I can freely command Marine units without needing this! The top brass of the World Government will see the value of me, Spandam!"His fingertip hovered over the small golden button on the back of the golden transponder snail. A sickly flush rose to his face, and his breathing became rapid.He seemed to be able to imagine the spectacular sight of the fleet firing in unison, ten thousand cannons roaring, turning everything into scorched earth."Hehehe... With just a light press, just such a small action, an island, along with all the life, buildings, and history on it... will be completely wiped off the map."He closed his eyes in intoxication, feeling this illusory sense of control."Power itself is the most lethal and charming weapon! It makes one... so intoxicated!""Re—Report!"A panicked shout, almost breaking in pitch, abruptly pierced the silence of the top floor and his fantasy.An agent, clutching a transponder snail designated for the Courtroom, rushed in recklessly.He even pushed the door frame open heavily, making a muffled 'thud' sound."Director Spandam! Emergency!""Ah!"Spandam was so startled that he shuddered, and the golden transponder snail in his hand almost slipped out!He caught it in a frantic scramble, his heart pounding wildly."You bastard! Why didn't you knock before coming in?!"His shock turned into a towering rage as he roared at the newcomer."Do you want to die?! I almost pressed it! Do you know what that would mean?!"The agent shrank his neck at the roar, his face bloodless, but he still braced himself and held up the transponder snail in his hand:"I-I am terribly sorry! Director! B-But... there's an emergency call from the main island! The situation is very wrong!""The main island?"Spandam frowned and stood up somewhat reluctantly.Having his beautiful fantasy interrupted made him extremely displeased."Wouldn't the call just be patched directly to this room..."He instinctively glanced at the ornately decorated private transponder snail on his desk, only to find the receiver tilted to one side, not placed properly at all."Bastard! The transponder snail wasn't put back properly again! Who did this? It's like this every time, no sense of discipline at all!"He habitually shifted the blame, unaware that this was his own usual habit.He temporarily turned his anger toward the trembling agent at the door:"You just said... an emergency?"Immediately, a smug smile habitually hooked onto his face again."Straw Hat Luffy must have been caught, right?""Hahaha! It's only natural; no one could possibly escape from thirty thousand elite troops! It seems I was overthinking."He pulled back his smile, gave a cold snort, and the cold and stubborn face of Robin appeared in his mind:"Hmph, hasn't that foul woman been acting tough all along?""I really want to see the look of despair on her face with my own eyes when she hears this news. That will definitely be... hahaha.""Take the transponder snail and follow me! To the detention room immediately!"He commanded with a wave of his hand."But Director, this is an emergency communication...""No buts! Execute the order! How urgent can it be?"Spandam interrupted him impatiently, already taking the lead out the door.He couldn't wait to go and appreciate the 'fruits of victory' he had envisioned.In the corridor of the detention level, the atmosphere was murderous, and the cold stone walls reflected the dim light.Both sides were lined with grim-faced, fully armed agents and Marines. They stood motionless like statues, their sharp eyes scanning every corner.The entrance to the detention room was guarded personally by two Marine Captains who had preliminary mastery of the 'Six Powers', highlighting the importance of the individuals inside.Robin and Merry were bound firmly to a central stone pillar in a cross shape by iron chains as thick as a thumb.The chains were heavy, tightening around their wrists and ankles, restricting any movement.Robin's head hung low, her purple-black hair obscuring her expression; only her tightly pursed lips revealed the turmoil within.Merry struggled from time to time, the chains making a clattering sound. Her silvery-white hair was somewhat messy, but those large eyes still burned with an unyielding flame."Hahaha..."Before Spandam even arrived, that signature, disgusting laughter preceded him.Adopting the posture of a self-imagined victor, he paced slowly and stopped in front of Robin."Hey, Nico Robin."He spoke condescendingly, his voice full of playfulness."It seems some very urgent news has come from the main island. Can you guess what it is?"He paused intentionally, admiring Robin's slightly tensed body, before continuing leisurely."Your partners... heh, they really were 'diligent'. Fighting to the death, they actually caused our side to suffer... a total of seven soldiers lost. Quite an 'impressive' record, isn't it?"He leaned in closer, his tone becoming even more biting:"In the face of the unmatched power of the strongest gatekeepers—the giants Kashi and Oimo—those partners of yours probably couldn't even put up a decent resistance. They could only be ruthlessly trampled and crushed!"He brought his face even closer, almost pressing against Robin's ear, his lowered voice filled with malicious pleasure:"Come on, let's listen together to the final end of those fools who dared to openly defy the World Government! This will be a... farewell song prepared specifically for you!"Fine beads of cold sweat broke out on Robin's forehead, and the unease deep in her heart wound and tightened like countless icy vines.She had seen the terrifying military force on the island with her own eyes; it was a tide made of steel and flesh.Even if Luffy and Mark possessed monster-like strength, facing such endless waves of battle and the siege of elite agents, there would eventually be a time when their strength failed... She didn't dare think further.However, as things stood, it was no longer an end she could change by compromising or sacrificing herself. The World Government's true target now included Merry."You're lying!"Merry, beside her, suddenly snapped her head up and let out a childish but incredibly firm roar. The intense aura contained in that voice even caused the glass covers on the wall lamps along the corridor to develop fine cracks!"Luffy and the others won't be defeated! He is my Captain, the man who promised to take us to see the whole world and find all the truths of history!""He is the future Pirate King! He's not a man who can be hindered by a guy like you who only knows how to hide behind his subordinates!""...What a terrifying brat."Spandam was subconciously pushed back three steps by this sudden surge of aura and words.A flash of alarm crossed his face, but it was immediately replaced by deeper irritation. He bared his teeth and began to sneer."Hehe, sharp-tongued. But it doesn't matter. The expression at the moment when hope is completely shattered and turns into despair...""Appearing on the face of a brat like you must be very 'cute'! I'm looking forward to it more and more!"He wasted no more words and nearly snatched the Courtroom transponder snail from the agent behind him.He specifically pointed the receiver toward Robinand Merry. He wanted to ensure every word reached their ears clearly; he wanted to fully enjoy the birth of this despair."Hey! Guard! This is Spandam!"He shouted into the receiver, trying to reclaim dominance with his volume.The expression simulated by the transponder snailimmediately became panicked, and a response came from inside with a sobbing tone and immense pressure:"Ah! D-Director Spandam? Great! I've finally reached you! That... the situation... where should I even begin...""Calm down, you idiot!""Don't waste words! Just tell me the result! What happened to the Straw Hat crew? Have they all been taken down yet?"He paused, intentionally adding weight to his tone, emphasizing each word while his gaze swept over Robin's pale face:"...Wait a minute! After you've summarized it, tell me in the loudest, clearest voice! I want certain people to hear it loud and clear!""The invasion...""Were the invaders, the Straw Hat crew, finished off? Of course they were..."Spandam even impatiently provided the 'answer' in his mind for the other party, a victorious smile already appearing on his face in advance."The invaders, the Straw Hat crew and their accomplices—about sixty people—have now broken through all lines of defense and stormed the end of the main island—the Courthouse Plaza!""What did you say?"The smile on Spandam's face froze instantly, then disintegrated like a shattered mask, his face suddenly turning deathly pale!He could hardly believe his ears!The voice in the transponder snail continued, with a desperate tremor, each word hitting his heart like a heavy hammer:"Not only that! It has been confirmed that the giants guarding the main gate, Oimo and Kashi, have defected and are turning their weapons to assist the pirates in attacking the main island's Central Street!"AI Model: gemini-3.1-flash-lite"Our troop losses... are estimated to have exceeded five thousand! Among them, Straw Hat Luffy alone routed a force of nearly two thousand. Currently... he has suddenly disappeared, and we are searching with everything we have, but..."Spandam felt a chill shoot from the soles of his feet straight to his scalp. His hand trembled violently, and the transponder snail slipped from his stiff fingers, hitting the cold floor with a "clack"!However, the receiver didn't break completely. It still clearly and uncontrollably broadcast that desperate sentence, which echoed through the silent corridor like a final verdict:"This is likely... the most disastrous situation in the eight hundred years since Enies Lobby was established!! Sir, we... we can't hold on much longer!!"The voice reverberated through the empty corridor, every word clearly audible.Although the Marines and agents guarding both sides still stood straight, hesitation and fear were inevitably revealed in their eyes.Spandam froze in place, his mouth agape, unable to make a sound. All his previous smugness and arrogance were shattered by this cruel reality.Meanwhile, in front of the hundred-meter-high, mountain-like, towering gate of the Courtroom.Franky, Zoro, Mark, and Sanji stood side by side, looking up at the magnificent and oppressive massive building, whose shadow covered almost the entire plaza."Luffy, is he up there?"Franky adjusted his sunglasses, his tone seeking confirmation."Yeah."Mark opened his slightly closed eyes, withdrawing a trace of subtle sensory fluctuation."Besides Luffy, there is one other person up there.""How about it? Do you want to use your 'Ink Meteor' to carry everyone up?"Sanji exhaled a puff of smoke, turning to suggest this to Mark, seeking the most efficient solution."If there's only one enemy up there, let's just fight our way in."Zoro crossed his arms, his tone calm and waveless, as if he were talking about the most mundane thing."If we rush up now, that idiot Captain might be having too much fun and might even blame us for ruining his mood.""That's right,"Mark deeply agreed, his mind immediately and uncontrollably conjuring an image of Luffy picking his nose while looking at them with disdain.Muttering "You guys are so slow! I've been waiting for ages," he couldn't help but shudder at the scene."I can totally imagine his face. Let's just let him play up there for a while."Just in that brief moment of deliberation—"Whoosh—!"A dull whistling sound suddenly struck!A massive solid iron ball, nearly two meters in diameter, was violently thrown from the narrow side alley like a meteorite, aimed directly at Nami, who was taking a short break!"Lightning Spear!"Nami reacted with incredible speed. Without even turning her head, she simply raised her slender finger toward the direction of the incoming threat!At her fingertips, highly compressed, bright blue lightning crackled with a piercing sound, instantly shooting out like a laser!"Boom!"The blinding beam of lightning struck first despite being fired later, precisely hitting the center of the incoming iron ball!There was no explosion, only instantaneous high-temperature melting and ionization!The lightning beam pierced through the hard iron ball like a hot knife through butter, its momentum undiminished, shooting straight into the depths of the dark alley and hitting the chest of the burly man wielding the iron chains, who stood over three meters tall!The burly man couldn't even manage a full scream; his body twitched violently, leaving a charred hole in his chest. With an expression of disbelief in his eyes, he crashed to the ground, completely losing all signs of life.Almost at the same time, with a crisp metallic "clang," Sanji's figure appeared like a ghost—or a prince charming protecting a princess in a fairy tale—landing elegantly and precisely just an inch in front of Nami.With just a casual side kick, the wind from his leg fierce, he kicked the broken iron ball, still retaining high heat and electrical currents, away like a ball!The iron ball whistled through the air, embedding itself deeply into the thick wall of a nearby building. The immense impact not only smashed through the bricks and stones but also knocked unconscious and buried an enemy on the other side of the wall who was preparing to sneak an attack."The small fry here, it's enough for me to clear them out alone."Sanji slowly withdrew his leg, gracefully sliding his hands back into his white trouser pockets, as if he had just done something trivial.He lit a new cigarette and strolled leisurely toward the depths of the alley where enemies kept pouring out."Hey, hey... isn't this, this size a bit too exaggerated?"Zambai, a subordinate of the Franky Family, looked at the corpse of the burly man being dragged out and the iron ball embedded in the wall, unable to help but swallow hard and exclaim."To be able to swing such a heavy iron ball as a weapon, what kind of terrifying monster strength must that be!""It's probably a special unit even more powerful than the 'Law Dog Squad' we encountered before,""After all, this is already the core of Enies Lobby, the location of the Courtroom. The guard force is naturally extraordinary."As soon as their conversation ended, the sound of a roaring crowd erupted all around."Quick! Surround them! They are right in front of the Courtroom, don't let them advance any further!""Take advantage of the fact that the internal drawbridge hasn't been fully lowered yet, and finish them off outside!""That's right! That giant stone gate is made of the hardest granite; there's no way it can be opened from the outside! They are trapped here!"Those Marines and agents who had previously scattered to search for Luffy were now re-gathering.They poured out from every intersection and alley, forming a tight encirclement once again. Swords were drawn, guns were loaded, and they closed in step by step. The murderous atmosphere instantly reached its peak."If we get completely surrounded here, with attacks from front and back, the situation won't be good!" Chopper also jumped down from the back of the Bull-Fish."Yeah! How on earth are we going to open such a heavy stone gate..."Zambai watched the enemies surging in like a tide from all sides, cold sweat beading on his forehead.Before his worried words could even fade—"Clang! Clang! Clang!"Three fierce, peerless sword beams slashed across that giant stone gate, which had been viewed as insurmountable!Zoro gave the answer with the most direct and violent action.The thick stone gate, symbolizing the dignity and barrier of justice, before that sword aura that could cut through anything.Was cleanly cut with three huge gashes! Rubble fell with a rustle, revealing the deep, dark hall behind it."It, it's opened!!" Zambai's eyes nearly popped out of their sockets as he watched, his jaw almost hitting the ground. This completely exceeded his understanding of "swordplay."Almost at the same time the stone gate was slashed open, a more violent roaring sound of walls collapsing came from the depths of the adjacent alley, along with the brief and shrill screams of enemies, which then came to an abrupt end.A few seconds later, Sanji strolled out calmly from the swirling dust, his clothes spotless.He adjusted his slightly crooked tie, flicked the cigarette butt he had just finished smoking precisely into the air, tracing a subtle arc, and as it landed on the ground, he gently crushed it with his leather shoe.He spat out two words indifferently:"Small fry."Above the roof of the Courtroom, the wind was exceptionally biting, blowing the corners of their clothes."Dog?"Luffy tilted his head, looking at the fierce-looking man blocking the path in front of him, a look of genuine confusion on his face.He really thought the way the other guy was baring his teeth looked a lot like a dog."What did you say?! I'm a wolf! A wolf! Look closely, a noble and powerful wolf!"Jabra was so angry that the veins on his forehead bulged; he jumped up and down on the spot. Having his most proud feature—the fierce wolf—misidentified was simply a huge humiliation."Alright, wolf-dog, are you going to get in my way?"Luffy went with the flow and immediately changed his words, but his eyes instantly became as sharp as an eagle's, firmly locking onto the opponent."Before we start, I need to confirm two things!"As Jabra spoke, his body began to undergo a terrifying transformation.His muscles expanded and bulged as if being inflated, his body hair grew wildly and became coarse, his snout protruded forward, and sharp fangs pierced his lips, gleaming coldly.His hands also transformed into sharp claws covered in hard fur. His half-man, half-wolf form exuded a primitive, savage aura."First, Blueno... was he taken out by you guys?" Jabra's voice became deeper and hoarser."Who? What pineapple?"Luffy tilted his head, a look of pure confusion on his face; he really hadn't remembered the name of that CP9 member very well."Who? You're actually asking who?" Luffy's completely indifferent reaction caused Jabra to snap; his rage instantly overwhelmed his reason."Blueno... it's Blueno!" He was practically roaring."The one with the Door-Door Fruit ability! His hair is like this! Like bull horns!"Jabra struggled to suppress the urge to tear the other person apart, using his hands to clumsily gesture on his own head, mimicking Blueno's iconic hairstyle."Oh—! I remember now, that bull guy!"Luffy watched his gestures, his eyes lighting up. He finally reconciled the image of Blueno with Jabra's imitation and realized with a start."Yeah! Zoro cut his bull head off with one slash. Daring to kidnap my crewmate, serves him right!"He said it as a matter of course, as if stating the most ordinary thing."Good! Very good! You have completely infuriated me."Jabra forced down the anger that was almost erupting from his throat, stepped back suddenly, leaned his body slightly forward, and assumed a combat stance like a wolf preparing to pounce, his beastly eyes flashing with a cruel and bloodthirsty light."Second, I heard from that arrogant guy Lucci that you could make him feel satisfied... I wonder if you, rubber bastard, can also make me... feel the joy of battle and the thrill of slaughter!""Whether it's joyful or not, I don't know!"Luffy's arm suddenly extended to his side, his entire skin began to flush slightly red, and wisps of steam began to rise.A powerful sense of oppression spread out from him as the center, his eyes becoming incredibly focused and serious."But you might die!""Gear Second!"
Chapter 169: Zoro's Special Oni Giri and Luffy's ShoutAt the top floor of the Tower of Justice, Spandamgripped the windowsill tightly, his gaze piercing through the glass,locking firmly onto the flat roof of the courthouse building below.There, surrounded by flag stands forming a natural arena, two figures faced off across the air."Jabra! What the hell is he doing there?" Spandam's brow furrowed, his voice filled with confusion.The next second, one figure caught his full attention—The person was wrapped in fine white steam, their skin glowing a searing light red."That... that's Straw Hat Luffy?"Even across several floors and glass, the pressure belonging to a powerhouse surged like a tide, making Spandam's heart pound wildly and his steps retreat uncontrollably."Has Luffy arrived?"Merry's sharp ears caught the keyword in Spandam's words, and a glimmer of hope instantly burst from her dim eyes."Yeah," Robin answered softly, her tone wrapped in a certain tenderness,"As long as Luffy is here, our friends will arrive soon. Don't worry."These words were to comfort Merry, and also to find a steady landing spot for her own hanging heart."No! We can't wait any longer! We must divert the pirates' attention immediately!"Spandam turned abruptly, his previous feigned composure vanished, leaving only the panicked desperation of a cornered dog.He roared at the agents beside him who didn't dare to breathe loudly:"Pass on my orders! Immediately initiate the handover procedure for Nico Robin and Merry! Now! Prepare for transfer at once!""But sir, the fleet at the Gates of Justice isn't ready to receive them yet..." an agent tried to remind him tremblingly."Idiot! Fool!"Spandam interrupted rudely, his spit flying onto the other's face,"Once we're through the Gates of Justice, there'll be plenty of time to wait for the fleet!But now—we must move the pirates' gaze away from the Tower of Justice immediately! Not even a second can be wasted!"He paced irritably on the spot for two turns, then suddenly stopped, a ruthless glint in his eyes,"Right! Have all CP9 members assemble! Prepare for battle! Go!""Yes!" The two agents, as if granted amnesty, immediately stood at attention and saluted.One ran off to relay the order, while the other turned to arrange the transfer, fearing that staying a second longer would incur his wrath."Where's my transponder snail?"Spandam searched everywhere like a headless fly, until finally, in the shadows by his feet,he spied the courthouse transponder snail that he had thrown and left crooked."Damn it! Who threw this on the ground? It's always like this! A bunch of useless trash!"He picked up the transponder snail in a fit of rage—At this moment, he had long lost the mood to toy with Robin and Merry; his mind was entirely occupied with finding out how bad the mess in the courthouse actually was.He hurriedly pressed the call button, his voice filled with uncontrollable panic:"Hello! Baskerville! Answer me! It's me! Spandam!"The transponder snail's face instantly simulated three expressions twisted together; the left head spoke first:"Oh! Superior Spandam, I am Left Baskerville,"The right head followed immediately: "I am Right...""Cut the crap!" Spandam interrupted shrilly, the breakdown in his voice almost overflowing,"Explain the situation there quickly! I heard the pirates have already broken into the Courthouse Plaza?""The situation...""Well, the situation is...""As for the situation—"The voices of the three heads crowded into the receiver, while the sounds of shouting and explosions rose and fell in the background, as chaotic as a boiling pot of porridge.They stared at the chaos in the Judgment Hall—Zoro's blade-swinging sword-ki tornado was sweeping Marines and agents into the high air like fallen leaves;The Franky Family underlings were carrying rocket launchers, aiming at the pillars and firing frantically, sending rubble falling everywhere."Sir! Never mind the plaza... the pirates are right here in my Judgment Hall, slashing people everywhere!""Now... now is the worst-case scenario!"The three heads wailed in unison, their voices filled with despair."What did you say?"Spandam's voice rose sharply,"Where are the jurors? Send all the jurors out to hold them back! Are they all a bunch of useless gluttons?"Inside the courtroom—"Phew, I didn't expect the defense in here to be thinner than imagined."Zoro shook off the blood droplets from his blade, his sharp gaze sweeping across the somewhat empty hall."Thin? It's just a visual illusion."Mark weighed a giant iron ball he'd snatched from a burly juror with one hand, then began to spin it, creating a whistling wind,"After getting used to the sea of defenders outside, it naturally feels like few people once inside."Before his voice even landed, his wrist suddenly loosened, and the iron ball shot out like an out-of-control cannonball, heading straight for the three heads sitting side-by-side on the judge's bench!"You dare!"The middle head—"Central Highway"—suddenly roared, drawing a massive cleaver from his waist,The blade sliced through the air, and with a crisp "clink," it actually split the iron ball precisely in half!"Incredible! To dare attack the Chief Judge in the sacred courtroom, this is blatant rebellion!"His beard shook with rage as he slammed the judge's table and shouted,"I now sentence you for the crime of rebellion!"The remaining Marines in the hall saw Mark strike without hesitation, daring to even attack the High Judge,Each one froze in place with fear, even forgetting to raise their guns."Ah! Three heads! What kind of monster is that?"Chopper pointed at the judge's bench, eyes wide and mouth agape."Silence! Everyone be silent! This is the Judgment Hall of Enies Lobby! How dare you make such a racket!""Central Highway" jumped back to the main seat of the judge's bench, clutching a wooden gavel and slamming it frantically on the table."The ruling begins now—you bastards who attempt to subvert justice shall all die!""Hey, big brothers!"Zambai took the opportunity to squeeze next to the Straw Hat main force, lowering his voice,"Go straight upstairs to find Straw Hat Luffy! Leave the small fry down here to us!Kiwi and Mozu have already taken people to open the drawbridge!""Alright, we're leaving it to you!"Franky glanced over; the three giant beasts Yokogang, Gomora, and Gomorrah were firmly blocking the entrance Zoro had sliced open,"With those three blocking the door, it's definitely Super steady!""Then I'll leave it to you brothers." Mark's tone held trust."They seem to be judging us over there."Nami pointed to the center of the hall—A group of Marines and agents were still standing there, not daring to speak or move, obediently listening to the Chief Judge's "sentence," looking somewhat comical."Who cares, it's annoying." Zoro frowned, his hand on his hilt,"Where's the way upstairs?""Straight ahead! There are stairs on both sides!" Nami raised her hand, pointing deep in the direction of the judge's stand."Understood." Zoro was brief, and as soon as he spoke, his figure bolted out like the wind."These pirates are so rude! Do they treat the sacred judgment as white noise?""Unforgivable! This is simply an insult to Enies Lobby!""Kill them! Vindicate justice!"The completely ignored Marines finally reacted, raising their guns angrily to surround them, but the roars had barely reached their throats before they froze in place!"Hmm? What's that?""No... impossible? The... the swords, how did they become bent?"Everyone's gaze was locked on Zoro—He held his swords crossed behind him, wado ichimonji clamped in his mouth, head slightly lowered, his body coiled like a taut bow in a steady horse stance.This was the starting stance for "Oni Giri," yet it was completely different from usual—Above his head, a phantom of a bull-headed Shinigami glowing with an ominous red light slowly emerged.The blades of the three swords seemed twisted as if baked by high heat—But they weren't actually bent; it was because the aura erupting from Zoro was too strong, causing the surrounding air to churn with intense visual distortion!The Shinigami phantom spread its arms, its giant cloak expanding like moth wings, the red light condensing with suffocating pressure."Enbima Yonezu: Oni Giri!"Zoro suddenly looked up, the corners of his eyes sharp as blades, his feet crushing the ground as his figure instantly became a blur.Everyone only saw three sharp blade lights—red, blue, and white—passing through the crowd like the Shinigami's scythe!The blade light vanished, and the crowd suddenly froze—Some were decapitated, warm blood splashing on the cold floor tiles;Some were instantly frozen into ice sculptures, even their terrified expressions fixed on their faces;Others were wrapped in strange orange flames, turning into a wisp of ash in the blink of an eye.Over a hundred Enies Lobby elites, under this single strike, didn't even have time to groan before they lost all breath.Behind the crowd, Zoro slowly sheathed wado ichimonji, while still holding shura and yodo himawari in his hands."Alright, let's go." He said it so nonchalantly.The whole place was silent; one could hear a pin drop.A moment later, the Chief Judge's three heads finally broke the silence:"He... he's the one... who cut open the gates of Enies Lobby?""My god... so strong!""So... why isn't someone this strong the Captain?" The Franky Family underlings felt their scalps tingle and couldn't help but whisper."Nicely done, pretty cool."Mark stepped forward and patted Zoro on the shoulder, his lips curling slightly,"When you have time, help me think of some cool lines too... Hey! Don't run so fast!"Before he could finish, Zoro had already charged toward the stairs without looking back, leaving Markwith only his back."Let's catch up too!" Nami said, quickly chasing after him."I'm leaving my back to you guys!" Franky shouted to his underlings and turned to follow the team."Hey! Wait for me! That stupid reindeer! And you, the lost-child swordsman!"Sanji's voice came from the hall entrance—He had been delayed for a moment clearing out that group of troublesome juror elites.As soon as he entered the hall, he witnessed Zoro's world-shaking strike and instantly turned red with envy."In such a dangerous enemy formation, how could I let Miss Nami walk alone? I must be the one to clear the obstacles ahead!""You two, get out of my way!" He shouted while using a skillful kick to shove aside the blocking Chopper and Zoro."Ah! Why are you kicking me too?"Chopper held his head and shrank back, glaring at Sanji with a pitiful look.Zoro blocked with the back of his blade and roared at Sanji, "You bastard, are you looking for a fight?""Cut the crap!" Sanji retorted righteously, rushing several steps to the front of the team and turning to glare at Zoro,"I won't let you steal the spotlight in front of Miss Nami!"But when he turned to Nami, his tone and gaze softened:"Miss Nami, come with me quickly, the path this way is safer!"Finished, without waiting for Nami's response, he rushed up the stairs like a gust of wind, fearing that Zoro would get ahead of him if he were any slower."I say... we are here to save Robin and Merry, right?"Nami looked at Sanji's hurried back, massaged her forehead, and sighed helplessly, yet she still quickly followed."Ah! That's right! Robin-chan! And Merry!"Sanji stopped abruptly, as if struck by lightning, his face instantly filled with panic and self-reproach,"They are still waiting for this knight to save them!"He burst forth with even greater speed than before, his figure instantly vanishing around the corner of the stairs, leaving only his "passionate" shouts echoing in the corridor:"Robin-chan! Merry! You surely haven't been crying from loneliness while waiting for me, right?Wait for me! Your knight is coming to save you right now!""This guy... is truly beyond help." Nami rubbed her temples and sighed helplessly.AI Model: gemini-3.1-flash-lite"Sigh, I'm mentally exhausted." Mark sighed as well, glancing in a certain direction. "And there's more than one person beyond saving.""What's wrong?" Nami turned back, looking puzzled."See for yourself." Mark closed his eyes, composed himself, and pointed to the other side."Ah! I wasn't paying attention, and Zoro is at it again..."Chopper looked in the direction Mark was pointing and saw Zoro, carrying two swords, charging headlong into the depths of the first floor on the right, completely veering away from the stairs."Hey! Zoro! Wait! Not that way! The stairs are over here!"Chopper stood at the top of the stairs, shouting at the top of his lungs."Huh?"Zoro paused, looked up blankly, and turned to look at his companions on the stairs, his eyes filled with confusion—as if to say, "Am I not going the right way?""What is it?"Nami stomped her feet in anger, pointing toward the stairs and shouting, "I told you it was the stairs! How badly off-course do you have to be to end up over there? Are you sleepwalking?""Nag, nag, nag..." Zoro scratched his head and muttered defensively, "It's not my fault you didn't explain it clearly..." Despite what he said, he obediently ran toward the stairs."This is absolutely not my problem, okay!" Nami was so frustrated she almost laughed."Hey, hey, hey! Don't tell me—the swordsman who just took down a hundred people with one slash is a complete directionally challenged idiot?" Franky had witnessed the whole thing, his jaw nearly dropping to the floor; he felt like his worldview had been shattered."You'll get used to it." Mark, Nami, and Chopperanswered in unison, their tones heavy with the weary acceptance of those who were "long used to it.""Zoro." Chopper looked at the returning Zoro and approached him with a serious expression. "Next time, should I prescribe you some medicine? One specifically for being directionally challenged? It should... probably be useful!""Who needs medicine for being directionally challenged?! Hey!" The tips of Zoro's ears turned bright red instantly, and he hurriedly turned his face away, trying to argue back, but without much conviction."Chopper!" Nami pointed to Sanji, who had already rushed to the third floor, running and shouting "Robin-chan" as he went, and sighed helplessly, "Please take care of that guy, too."Chopper glanced in the direction Nami was pointing, instantly breaking into a cold sweat, and nodded with a grimace, "OK! I got it! This task... is indeed a bit daunting...""A grave sin! This is definitely a grave sin!""That's right! A capital offense, no doubt about it!""Then let's take the middle ground—straight to the death penalty!""Agreed! No objections!" The Chief Judge's three heads finally reached an unprecedented consensus, their tone filled with gritted-teeth viciousness."Go to hell!" The "Central Highway" roared, raising his great sword high, the blade reflecting a cold light.He leaped down from the judge's bench, putting his full weight behind the sword, and slashed fiercely toward Mark's head!Mark's eyes narrowed, his right hand flashing to his back, and "Ink Meteor" was instantly in his palm!The floor tile beneath his feet suddenly made a sharp cracking sound— "Soru" activated!His figure vanished like a ghostly shadow; the next second, he appeared beside the Chief Judge's round belly."Get lost!" "Ink Meteor" struck the Chief Judge's flank with the force of a thousand tons!"Pfft—" The Chief Judge's massive body flew backward like a baseball kicked at full force, whistling through the air for dozens of meters, before slamming into the thick stone wall behind with a "boom," embedding himself deep into the wall as stone debris showered down; moments later, he slid down like a pile of mush, completely unconscious.Mark didn't even glance at him, cleanly sheathing "Ink Meteor" behind his waist. "Let's go!" he shouted to his companions, and they didn't delay, sprinting rapidly toward the roof.On the rooftop, the battle between Luffy and Jabrahad already begun, the wind thick with intense killing intent!"Gum-Gum..." Luffy pulled his left arm back sharply, palm aimed at Jabra, while his right arm clenched into a fist, building up momentum."Still trying to take aim?" A sneer of disdain curled onto Jabra's wolf-like face. "Putting aside whether you can even aim—you'd have to keep up with the speed of my'Soru' in beast form first!""Soru!" His figure instantly blurred, weaving rapidly across the roof like a gray shadow, attempting to disrupt Luffy's line of sight with high-speed movement.However— "Gum-Gum Jet Bullet!" Luffy's fist moved so fast it broke through the afterimages, arriving before Jabra could react!Jabra's figure had just materialized from his "Soru" state, and before he could adjust his stance, his left cheek took a solid, heavy punch!"Pfft!" Three blood-stained teeth flew out of his mouth, hitting the ground with a crisp sound!The immense force sent his body flying backward uncontrollably, and he slammed into the stone flagpole base behind him with a "thud"—the sturdy base instantly cracked with spiderweb-like fissures and shattered!He nearly fell off the roof, but managed to endure the dizziness in his head through sheer grit. He stumbled, propped himself up off the ground, and spat a mouthful of bloody foam onto the floor."So... so strong!" He stared at Luffy, his heart churning with shock.He had barely managed to stand steady and hadn't even had time to locate Luffy's figure— "Bang!" His right cheek took another ruthless, heavy blow!His whole body spun like a top, sliding over ten meters across the roof before stopping; his right cheek was swollen, skin torn and bleeding.He struggled to prop himself up on all fours, trying to get up, but his body wouldn't stop shaking, and his vision was blurry."Jet Gatling!" The next second, a fierce, spiraling straight punch smashed heavily into Jabra's chest!"Crack!" The clear sound of breaking bones was piercingly loud on the rooftop. Jabra's massive werewolf body stiffened, his chest visibly caving in; he could no longer hold himself up, collapsing to his knees with a "thump," shaking his head futilely, looking around, but unable to catch even a glimpse of Luffy."I can't see him... I can't see him at all... What kind of speed is this...""Jet Axe!" Luffy took both feet off the ground, leaping high, his heel tensed straight like a sharp battle-axe, slashing down fiercely toward Jabra's back!Relying on animal instinct, Jabra barely managed to roll away at the last second, dodging the fatal blow—the spot where he had just been sprawled was instantly smashed into a deep crater, stone fragments flying everywhere.He lay by the edge of the crater, panting heavily, his tongue lolling out, saliva dripping onto the ground; he was clearly at the end of his rope.But Luffy's attack wasn't over yet!While in mid-air, Luffy's arms suddenly extended rapidly, precisely grabbing the wolf ears!"Gum-Gum Rocket!" Luffy's body, like a stone fired from a slingshot, used the power of his retracting arms to drive his head like a battering ram, slamming fiercely into Jabra's back!"Argh—!" Jabra let out a shrill, miserable howl, the fur on his body instantly fading, his beast form dissolving, and he reverted to human form.He lay on the ground like a pile of mush, his spine clearly severely injured, foaming at the mouth, eyes rolling back, completely unconscious.Luffy landed steadily on the ground, reaching up to press down on his Straw Hat, the brim shading the emotions in his eyes; he looked down at the unconscious Jabra at his feet and asked in a flat tone, "Are you... 'happy' now?"Inside the courthouse beneath Luffy's feet, Sanji had just used a flashy kicking technique to send dozens of encroaching jury elites sprawling."Whew, I didn't expect there to be so many guards on these upper floors." He wiped the sweat from his temple, shook his leg, and continued to clear the way for his companions behind him, his eyes scanning the surroundings vigilantly."Guilty! You're all guilty!" In another corridor, Zorohad also encountered a dozen elites wielding massive iron balls, which made dull thuds as they struck the floor."So annoying!" Zoro growled, spinning his three swords in his hands. "Oni Giri!"A flash of blades passed, and the dozen enemies fell to the ground one after another before they could even scream, completely still."By the way... where exactly am I?" Zoro looked at the several nearly identical corridors in front of him, falling into confusion once again, scratching his head with a bewildered look in his eyes.In the courthouse plaza, the battle was equally heated, the sounds of shouting and fighting deafening!"Fire the cannons! Regular bullets can't pierce the giants' skin! Use the cannons!""But... the cannons are useless too! The shells hit them like they're just scratching an itch!""Ah! Retreat! Retreat! How are even the giants helping the pirates?! How are we supposed to fight this!"In the chaos, Usopp, leading the two giants, had already charged to the front of the courthouse gate, looking imposing."Oh! Finally reached the courthouse!" Usopp stood on the broad shoulder of the giant Oimo, hand shading his eyes as he looked out, his tone full of high spirits."Ah! The giants are here! Great!!" The Franky Familyunderlings and shipwrights, who were struggling in the battle, burst into cheers the moment they saw the two towering figures.As soon as the two giants joined the fight, they immediately drew the fire of most of the guards in the plaza—cannonballs and bullets flew toward them, and the pressure on Yokogang, Gomorrah, and Gomora, who were guarding the courthouse entrance, instantly eased significantly."I never thought... the giants would actually become our allies." The shipwrights, Bari, Tilestone, and Lips, clung tightly to the giant Kashi, and with the giant's cover, they also successfully reached the courthouse entrance.Meanwhile, the squad led by Kiwi and Mozu had finally broken through layers of obstacles and rushed to the door of the control room—inside, it controlled the two massive drawbridges connecting to the Tower of Justice.Inside the Tower of Justice, the atmosphere was so oppressive it was suffocating."Report, sir! The transport route has been inspected and confirmed safe!""Report! All members of CP9 have assembled! However... the werewolf Jabra hasn't returned, and we can't find him anywhere!""Ah! That idiot! He must have gone to challenge Straw Hat Luffy! Forget about him!"Spandam waved his hand irritably, his face full of impatience—at this moment, he only wanted to leave this hellhole that was about to be overrun by pirates as quickly as possible; he didn't care about Jabra's survival.He walked up to Robin and Merry, who were tightly bound by iron chains, and forced a twisted, cruel smile onto his face. "Hehe! Time to go, Nico Robin—and the little girl of the lunarian race, Merry."He leaned into Robin's ear, his voice dropping to a very low, malicious whisper: "I will personally... deliver you to the gates of hell."Meanwhile, on the roof of the courthouse, Luffy took a deep breath, his chest swelling high. He faced the Tower of Justice, which symbolized the core of power on Enies Lobby—that was his final goal for this trip.He opened his mouth and used all his strength to let out a shout that shook the heavens: "Robin—! Merry—! I've come to get you—!"This shout, like a horn of victory, pierced through all the clamor of the battlefield and clearly echoed through every corner of Enies Lobby.
Chapter 170: All Members Assemble, Confrontation at the Waterfall"Luffy—!"Hearing Luffy's familiar shout instantly brightened the hearts of Robin and Merry.They instinctively began to struggle, their chains clattering; the Sea Stone handcuffs continuously drained Robin's strength.It made every attempt to break free feel limp and powerless."Chief! On the roof of the Courthouse! We suspect it's Straw Hat Luffy shouting!"A soldier rushed into the room out of breath, reporting to Spandam, who was currently frantic and practically wrestling with the iron chains."Bullshit!"Spandam violently flung the tangled chains from his hands, the links hitting the floor with a piercing metallic clang."Ten seconds! Just ten seconds ago! I saw that bastard Jabra standing on the roof with my own eyes!"He lunged toward the giant glass window again, looking down with an expression of disbelief.There stood Luffy atop the highest flag platform, one hand clutching his stomach, his body leaning slightly forward."He's injured? Haha! Serves him right!"Just as a flicker of twisted satisfaction appeared on Spandam's face, his gaze involuntarily swept behind Luffy—There, Jabra lay motionless, face-down, in close contact with the hard stone slabs of the flag platform."No... Impossible! He's CP9! A genius who mastered the Six Powers! How could he not even last... ten seconds?"A chill surged from Spandam's tailbone to the top of his head, making him nearly unable to stand.While he was reeling in shock, Luffy on the roof pouted his lips:"Oh man, I overdid it. I'm so hungry... *stomach growls*..."As he spoke, he reached into the pocket of the black pants he had changed into on the rocketman and began rummaging."Good thing I brought these along!"He pulled out two pieces of bone-in meat larger than his face and unhesitatingly stuffed a whole piece into his mouth, his cheeks bulging instantly."Ah! So good! Delicious!"Muffled praise accompanied his gluttonous devouring, full of vital energy."He... he's actually just hungry?! How is that possible! Are you kidding me!"A sense of utter absurdity flooded his mind, and he stumbled back a few steps."Ch-Chief?"Seeing this, a nearby agent hurried forward to try and support him."Get lost!"Spandam irritably swatted the agent's hand away."Lucci... where is Lucci?! Where the hell is Lucci?"He roared, as if that name were his only life-saving straw."Assemble CP9! All of them here! Now! Immediately!""Tell them to... completely eradicate the Straw Hatcrew! Leave no one alive!"He was exasperated, spit flying everywhere, looking like a madman."And! Notify that three-headed idiot Baskerville!""If he dares let the pirates lower the drawbridge connecting to the Tower of Justice, I'll personally tear off his extra heads!""Y-Yes... Understood!"Meanwhile, amidst the ruins on the first floor of the Courthouse.Chief Justice Baskerville's massive frame was deeply embedded in a hollow in the wall, brick and stone debris trickling down.Despite taking Mark's mountain-shattering strike head-on, he had tenaciously clung to a sliver of consciousness thanks to his extraordinary constitution.He struggled, trying to pull himself out of the wall, one hand trembling as it rose.He stubbornly pointed in the direction upstairs where Mark had gone, intermittently muttering Enies Lobby's highest 'judgment':"Gui...lty! Cru...el... death penalty!""Oh my? He's not quite dead after taking such a hard hit from Big Brother Mark. This old man's life is really tough!"A lackey from the Franky Family crossed his arms, his tone mixed with amazement and mockery."Should we... show some mercy and help put him out of his misery?"Another lackey rubbed his palms together, eager to try."Is that okay? He's the high-and-mighty Chief Justice, after all! Tsk tsk, maybe just be gentle..."A third person shook his head hypocritically, but his eyes gleamed with ill intent."Hehe! This is a once-in-a-lifetime highlight moment!""Beating up the Chief Justice of Enies Lobby—this achievement is enough for us Franky Family to brag about for a whole year!"Zambai squeezed his fists, his knuckles making a series of crisp popping sounds.As soon as he finished speaking, the surrounding lackeys swarmed forward, delivering a chaotic but cathartic barrage of punches and kicks to that dying, obese body.The poor Chief Justice's final 'death penalty' pronouncement was drowned out by the rain of blows.Spandam didn't get any good news about the Courthouse defense line holding, but the'strongest weapons' he anticipated had finally arrived."Swish—swish—swish—!"Several black figures shot out from the base of the Tower of Justice like ghosts, their movements perfectly synchronized.They stepped on the air, producing 'Pa! Pa!' explosive sounds—it was the Marine Six Powerstechnique, 'Moonwalk'!The figures flickered nimbly in the air several times, landing steadily in an instant on a wide platform outside the roof of the Courthouse, almost level with the roof where Luffy was.Four black figures stood across from the isolated Luffy on the flag platform, separated by the thunderous, plunging waterfall.The air froze at this moment."Is it just Straw Hat Luffy alone?"Kalifa adjusted her gold-rimmed glasses, her gaze behind the lenses sweeping over Luffy and the unconscious Jabra at his feet."To fight his way here all by himself, he really worked hard, chapapa."Kaku's zippered mouth opened and closed, emitting his unique verbal tic."Yo-yo-i! My good friend Jabra, has... has he been defeated so thoroughly?""It truly makes my fragile heart ache! Yo-yo-i!"Kumadori tossed his long white hair, which resembled a lion's mane, expressing'sorrow' in an exaggerated theatrical tone, though his eyes remained indifferent."That overconfident fool."Rob Lucci finally spoke, his voice low and icy, devoid of any emotional fluctuation. He crossed his arms, his gaze locked on Luffy."I told him long ago that he was no match. For those who cannot recognize reality, defeat and death are the only outcomes.""Ahahaha! Ahahaha—!"Seeing the four figures representing absolute martial power on the platform, Spandam was instantly revitalized as if injected with a shot of adrenaline.All his panic and fear were thrown to the wind, replaced by extreme excitement and a twisted confidence."Great! CP9 has arrived! The World Government's strongest assassination agency!"He laughed wildly."But that's not enough! My lineup is so perfect! It's absolutely flawless!"His escort team was indeed luxurious.Besides the Rust-Rust Fruit user—Captain Shu.And the man with a zombie-like appearance who upheld a unique 'justice,' known as the'Ship Cutter,' Captain T-Bone,There was also the CP9 newcomer, the highly capable Nero.Not only that, there were several elite agents from CP8 in the group, each assessed to be stronger than the Ramen Fruit user Wanze from CP7.And Wanze himself could only stand at the back of the line with a sour expression.In total, over a dozen people, a gathering of the elite from the Marine officers and Government agents, emitted a suffocating pressure.Spandam personally tugged at the cold iron chains binding Robin's neck and wrists, leading her at the front like livestock, his face beaming with a pathological smugness.Meanwhile, the petite Merry was being carried casually like a kitten by CP9 newcomer Nero at the back of the line.The secret passage to the 'Bridge of Hesitation' required descending to the seabed first, which meant they would inevitably pass behind the platform where CP9 was located."Wait a minute!"With such a powerful guard lineup, Spandam's confidence inflated to the extreme, and a malicious thought coiled around his heart like a poisonous vine.He stopped and yanked the chain hard, forcing Robin to stumble."Hey! Nico Robin!"He leaned in close to her, a lecherous and cruel smile on his face."I wonder, if your comrades who are desperately rushing here were to see you two with their own eyes—""Being taken like cargo by me, Lord Spandam, toward that hopeless, bottomless abyss...""What kind of magnificent expressions would appear on their faces? Huh? Just thinking about it makes me tremble with excitement! Hahaha!"He laughed maniacally, his finger suddenly pointing at the load-bearing wall next to the glass window."Destroy it completely! I don't want to just shout across the gap; I want a close-range 'viewing'!""I want Straw Hat Luffy to watch clearly, with his own eyes, as I take you away!""I hate curved sword techniques the most!"Captain T-Bone stepped out of the line with stiff strides, his zombie face showing no emotion.He slowly drew the longsword that seemed somewhat oversized compared to his frame."Right Angle Flash: Bone Air Cutter!"He growled, his arm muscles bulging as the longsword swung rapidly in the air at an extremely precise angle, carving out a blinding, right-angled sword wave.The sword light then extended, forming a perfect rectangle composed of light!In the next instant, this solid rectangular slash detached from the blade and screamed toward the thick wall!"Ssh—!"With a soft sound, a rectangular cut as smooth as a mirror appeared on the wall's surface.Almost the moment the sword light hit, CaptainShu, wearing an exaggerated Marine hat and with his entire face wrapped in mysterious white cloth, moved!"Shave!"His figure blurred instantly, appearing before the wall as if teleporting, and he kicked the center of the rectangular mark with all his might!"Rumble—!"The entire wall section suddenly collapsed along that perfect rectangular cut line!Huge stone blocks tumbled inward, falling into the bottomless waterfall below with a continuous, booming roar.A large doorway with smooth edges was thus violently opened.Mist from the waterfall mixed with dust blew in, causing the hems of the CP9 members' black coats to flutter slightly.Shu stepped aside silently, as if he had just completed a trivial task.Spandam was triumphant, looking like a victorious general as he pulled the chain hard, dragging Robinstumbling to the edge of the newly opened 'observation platform,' directly facing Luffy across the waterfall."Chief, do you need us to charge over now and take out Straw Hat Luffy?""Or wait for his accomplices to arrive and wipe them all out at once?"The long-nosed Kaku asked calmly."Don't be in a hurry! Kaku!"Spandam stuck out his tongue and licked his dry lips, his face showing unmasked malice."Don't you want to enjoy the sight of so-called 'hope' shattering before their eyes?""Straw Hat Luffy's despairing, painful, and twisted expression... that must be the most moving sight in the world!""Truly... a low-class, wicked taste."Kalifa adjusted her glasses, commenting coldly, but she did not move to stop him.While Spandam's ugly performance was playing out inside the Tower of Justice, the battle at the Courthouse entrance had entered its most tragic phase of attrition."Hehehe, give up! Pirates! Our numbers are infinite!""Charge in! Kill them! While these three monsters are exhausted! This is the last chance!""Damn! He can even take the special iron balls of the Guilty Jury with his bare body—what kind of frog is this?""Curse it... we can't hold on much longer..."The Franky Family lackeys were covered in blood. Facing an seemingly endless stream of enemies, their stamina and will were being rapidly depleted.And Yokozuna, Gomora, and Sodom, who were guarding the entrance, were covered in wounds, their massive bodies riddled with blade marks and burn scars.But like three boulders, they still held the Courthouse entrance firmly, using their last bits of strength to repel the Marines and agents trying to swarm in."Guilty! Guilty! Let our Jury deliver the final verdict to these three stubborn monsters!"Several exceptionally burly Jury members brandished chains connected to heavy iron balls. With fanatical smiles on their faces, they approached the scarred Yokozuna step by step.The massive iron balls whistled through the air, smashing violently toward the frog warrior's head!"Death penalty!"At that critical moment, two giant feet descended from the sky like mountains."BOOM!!!"A massive explosion shook the entire plaza ground, instantly clearing a large area of Marines near the entrance!"Nice frog! Brave enough!"Oimo's booming voice echoed over the plaza like thunder."To hold off so many Marines for so long with just a flesh-and-blood body, you are a worthy frog warrior! These two Emperor Ox-fish are equally admirable!"Kashi also expressed his praise. With a casual swing of his massive spiked club, he sent a row of Marines who were aiming their rifles flying."Ah! It's... it's the Giant Race!""They really have joined the pirates! What do we do?""Let us be your opponents! Marines!"The two giants let out a battle cry, their voices rolling like waves, instantly turning the tide of the precarious battle at the entrance."Hey! You down there! What's the situation inside?"Usopp slid down from Kashi's broad shoulder and shouted to the panting Franky lackeys."Big Brother Usopp! The bosses... Big Brother Zoro, Big Brother Sanji, Big Sis Nami, they all charged in and headed for the roof!""To the roof? Why go to the roof?"Usopp looked puzzled, looking up at the towering roof of the Courthouse."We're not too sure either! It seems... it seems Big Brother Straw Hat Luffy is up there! Go quickly! Leave this place to us and the giants!""Hehe, understood! Sogeking, message received!"Usopp instantly entered his persona, striking what he thought was a cool pose.Oimo looked down at the roof, a battle-hungry smile curling his lips:"Let me send you up there! Sogeking.""Huh?"Usopp was completely bewildered.Inside the Courthouse, Zoro's 'expedition' had turned into an absolute disaster.His goal was clearly the roof above, yet somehow he had chosen the wrong path at a junction and ended up going all the way down, winding up in a corridor on the third floor.AI Model: gemini-3.1-flash-lite"Ahhh! Which bastard designed this damn place?""Why do all the hallways and stairs look exactly the same?""And at such a critical time, too!"Zoro stopped in his tracks, agitated, veins bulging on his forehead as he cursed at the hallway,"The designer of this building better not let me find out who they are! Otherwise..."He paced back and forth anxiously, when suddenly, a simple and brutal idea flashed through his chaotic sense of direction like lightning."That's it!"He slammed his palm against his hand, his eyes lighting up with sudden realization,"Who cares about hallways and stairs! I just need to pick one direction—""Just charge straight up, right?! Any wall in my way, I'll just cut through it!"Thinking this, Zoro didn't hesitate anymore."Clang! Clang! Clang!"The three swords were unsheathed in an instant."Three Sword Style: Tornado!"He let out a low growl, his body spinning rapidly like a top.The three swords transformed into a massive, destructive whirlwind composed of countless sharp blades, crashing violently into the ceiling above with the power to tear through everything!"Rumble—!!!""What's happening?! Is it an earthquake?"Nami, who was cautiously advancing on the floor above, suddenly felt a violent tremor beneath her feet. Looking down, she saw the floor bulging and twisting like a wave!"This feeling... it's so familiar..."Before Chopper could finish his sentence, the floor beneath him exploded!The violent whirlwind of blades, carrying countless pieces of rubble and a few unlucky jurors who couldn't dodge in time, surged up from the floor below!Chopper and Nami screamed as they were swept up by the powerful air current!On the roof, Luffy pushed down his Straw Hat, clenched his fists, and locked his gaze on Robin and Merry on the other side:"Finally... finally caught up to you! Robin, Merry! I'm coming to save you right now!""Luffy—! Run away—!"Robin used all her strength,"It's the Buster Call! This bastard has the Golden transponder snail to initiate the Buster Call!""That's a military operation that can destroy everything! Go! Don't worry about us!""Luffy!"Merry also looked up, tears welling in her eyes."Robin! Merry!"Luffy shouted at the top of his lungs, his voice booming,"I'm telling you! We've all arrived!"Just as he finished speaking—"Boom—!!!"The center of the roof behind him suddenly arched upward like a balloon about to burst,and then exploded with a deafening roar! Debris and dust surged into the sky like a fountain!"Ahhh!!"Nami and Chopper's terrified screams came from the center of the dust.As the dust slowly cleared, Nami, relying on her agility and a bit of luck, managed to adjust her posture. Although a bit disheveled, she finally landed on her feet.Poor Chopper wasn't as lucky; he landed face-first in a classic pose, hitting the roof hard with a dull thud."Ouch, ouch, ouch... wh-what was that just now?"Chopper climbed up, clutching his face, eyes watery, with little stars circling his head."I think... I know."Nami brushed the dust off herself, shifting her gaze away from Chopper with a look of helplessness and anger,finally landing on Robin, who was chained up on the other side, her eyes instantly becoming determined."Thud!"A large hand reached out from the brand-new hole in the roof, gripping the edge firmly.Then, a green head popped out, looking left and right."Ugh! Heave-ho!"Zoro used his arms to push up, flipping over cleanly and landing steadily on the roof, smugly brushing the dust off his hands,"If we'd used this method from the beginning, it would've saved so much trouble!""Zo—ro—!""Was this your doing? What on earth is inside that brain of yours?!""We were lucky to only be caught in the aftermath! If we had been right in the center of your attack, and taken that hit...""Taking it wouldn't do anything! Why are you, a Logia user, afraid?"Zoro impatiently interrupted her, thinking Nami was making a fuss over nothing."Idiot! What would happen? This!"Nami exploded instantly, delivering a "Fist of Love" filled with thunderous rage, smashing it hard onto Zoro's head with a dull "thud."She grabbed Zoro by the collar, pointing angrily with her other hand at the Rice Rice Company logo embroidered on her clothes,"What do you know! This is a brand! It's a limited edition! If your sword aura had scratched it, even selling you wouldn't be enough to pay for it!""Oh~ you unreasonable woman!"Zoro clutched his head, which instantly sprouted a large bump, squatting on the ground and wailing in pain."Oh yeah! Mutton Shot!"Accompanied by a strange move name, a white figure shot out of the hole like a rocket.Sanji performed several high-difficulty, visually spectacular spins in the air, finally landing lightly on the roof in an elegant superhero pose: one knee on the ground, one hand on his chest.He kept his eyes tightly shut, a smile he thought was charming plastered on his face, and said in a deep, magnetic, and affectionate voice:"Undoubtedly, I, who upholds the spirit of chivalry, am the first knight to arrive by the side of Robin-chan and Miss Merry.""Sorry to keep you waiting, my beautiful ladies. Your loyal knight is here to save..."He slowly opened his eyes beneath his curly brows, preparing to meet the expected admiring gaze of Miss Nami and the moved tears of Robin and Merry.However, what met his eyes first was an incredibly familiar, incredibly glaring... Marimo head!"Ma... Marimo?!?""What?"Zoro clutched his head, turning around with a fierce look, extremely annoyed at having his "healing" interrupted."You bastard! How did you get here before me?"Sanji instantly flared up, jumping up and pointing at Zoro's nose, roaring."Heh! Lousy cook..."Zoro stood up, wearing a look of disdain, and asked nonchalantly,"You're so slow! Did you get lost?""Hoo~ hoo~ hoo! How dare you, you bastard!""You ultimate idiot who can get lost even on flat ground!"Sanji was so angry his hair was almost standing on end, his curly eyebrow twitching violently.The air between them instantly filled with gunpowder, their eyes clashing with crackling sparks.Just then, a strange, increasingly loud sound of something cutting through the air came from below."Ah~! Sogeking, protect me! Please don't let me land face-first! Please don't let me die! Please don't..."Usopp pressed his palms together, eyes tightly closed, muttering to himself like a human cannonball, tracing an ungraceful parabola as he shot toward the sky above the roof."Ah! Look! It's Sogeking!"Chopper pointed at the sky, shouting excitedly."That guy... what kind of performance art is he doing now?"Sanji temporarily put aside his confrontation with Zoro, frowning as he watched Usopp flailing in the air."Is he... flying?"Nami also looked up at the sky, full of confusion."...Will he be in one piece after this landing?"Even Zoro couldn't help but have a giant drop of cold sweat drip down his forehead, worried for Usopp."Duang—!!!"A dull, thunderous thud.Usopp's "prayer" was answered—He didn't land face-first, but rather head-first, his entire head stuck precisely and deeply into a gap in the roof tiles like a radish, leaving only his body and limbs dangling helplessly outside."Ah! Sogeking! Are you okay!"Chopper immediately turned into an ambulance, wailing as he ran over, grabbing Usopp's legs and pulling hard."Hey! What are you doing! Let go of me...! Hey! Franky! You pervert! Let go!"Mark's furious voice came from below the hole."Super—! A ready-made hole just appeared here, and I just happen to have a special move to reach the top floor quickly!""So I decided to give you a lift! No need to thank me too much!"Franky's iconic, metallic, loud voice boomed."Hey! I can come up myself! Who wants to be carried in such a disgusting way! You perverted steel bastard!""Yo! You're pretty sensible, little Mark! Knowing that this is my super awesome move! Hold on tight! We're taking off!""Who's being sensible?! And don't call me little Mark!""Coup de Fart—Pfft!!!"Perhaps the cola power was insufficient, or Frankydid it on purpose,a powerful but somewhat short burst of air, mixed with suspicious gas carrying the sweet, cloying scent of cola, shot violently out from the exhaust port beneath his buttocks."Whoosh—!"Franky, holding the desperately struggling Mark, shot up from the hole Zoro had cut like a torpedo exiting a tube."Ugh! This entrance... is a bit disgusting and perverted..."Nami looked at Franky's unique propulsion area, covering her nose in disgust."Cough, cough, cough... it's... it's the smell of cola..."Usopp, who had just pulled his head out, said in a muffled voice."Pfft! Pfft! Pfft!"Franky, holding Mark, bounced three times on the roof in a classic butt-landing pose before finally stabilizing."My reputation of a lifetime! All ruined by you, you perverted bastard!""Go die ten thousand times!"As soon as he landed, Mark jumped up in a rage, grabbing Franky's hard, mechanical neck with both hands, shaking him back and forth frantically, though this obviously caused no physical damage to Franky."Pfft—"Despite being in a desperate situation, witnessing this farce—so familiar to her very bones, chaotic yet full of life—Robin couldn't help it. A genuine, choked-up, yet incredibly relieved chuckle escaped from the bottom of her heart.These were her companions; this was the Straw Hatcrew.Whether facing the highest judicial organ of the World Government, or the legendary CP9,or even the Buster Call that could destroy everything, they could always, in this laughable and completely unpredictable way,turn the most serious and dangerous situations into something full of their own color.It was this unreasonable rowdiness, the bickering without any barriers between them, and the unreserved trust in their companions that created miracle after miracle, bringing infinite possibilities.However, as she laughed, the loneliness, fear, and sorrow she had suppressed for over twenty years, along with the moving emotion and hope that now surged like a tsunami, almost drowning her, could no longer be contained.Tears flowed out like a bursting river, sliding down her pale yet beautiful cheeks, dripping onto the cold iron chains and splashing into tiny droplets.She no longer suppressed herself, letting her shoulders tremble slightly as she let out a low, choked-up laugh.Seeing her overflowing tears, seeing the vulnerability and grievance she had endured for years finally released at this moment, all the noise and bickering on the roof stopped in an instant.Luffy, Zoro, Sanji, Nami, Chopper, Usopp, Franky, Mark... everyone's expressions turned somber, like the sky before a storm.A silent, yet more heart-shaking rage than the roar of the waterfall, permeated among them.They said nothing, simply taking steps, one by one, firm and steady, toward their Captain who had been standing on the highest flagpole all along—Monkey D. Luffy.With Luffy at the center, the eight members of the Straw Hat crew finally gathered, standing at the pinnacle of the courthouse!Standing on the flagpole, like an arrow about to be released, their sharp gazes pierced through the misty water vapor, shooting coldly toward the four black figures on the opposite side—CP9!Mark took the pitch-black Ink Meteor from his lower back, his fingers tightening. The staff seemed to sense its master's fighting spirit, emitting an imperceptible hum.Nami gripped the clima-tact tightly, fine, blue-white electric arcs beginning to jump around her body. A faint smell of ozone permeated the air, and dark clouds vaguely gathered above her head.Zoro's eyes were sharp as a hawk's, his immense killing intent almost solidifying as he locked onto every enemy on the opposite side.Sanji closed his eyes, silently tapping a cigarette out of his cigarette case, lowering his head to light it, taking a deep drag, and then slowly exhaling a grayish-white smoke ring.Amidst the swirling smoke, his slightly opened eyes held an unprecedented coldness.Franky, Chopper, and Usopp all had solemn expressions, rage burning in their chests as they glared at the enemy on the opposite side.Luffy reached out, firmly pushing down the Straw Hat that had accompanied him throughout his journey.The wide brim cast a deep shadow over his face, making his expression unreadable.The next moment, he looked up sharply!"Hum—!"An invisible, yet seemingly tangible aura of a king—Conqueror's Haki, with him at the center, exploded violently, spreading outward in all directions!The intense shockwave even caused the waterfall's flow to pause for a moment,and blew back Robin's long hair, which had been dampened by tears, revealing her delicate face, covered in tear tracks yet blooming with astonishing radiance at this moment!Luffy's gaze passed over CP9 and landed directly on Robin and Merry. His voice was not loud, yet it clearly overpowered the roar of the waterfall, carrying unquestionable determination and a promise:"From now on, leave it all to us! Robin, Merry!"