Chapter 171: Five Keys"Ahahaha—! You foolish pirates!"Spandam stepped forward, his face brimming with the arrogance of one who holds victory in his grasp. He pointed at the CP9 members standing like statues beside him, his voice shrill and piercing."Open your eyes and look closely!This is the strength of CP9—the strongest assassination agency under the World Government! Killing machines that have transcended human limits!"His gaze swept over the battle-ready Marine elites, his voice filled with absolute confidence."And look behind me! At that 'Gates of Justice' which no human power can shake! You self-righteous fools have been like turtles in a jar for a long time now!"His voice grew increasingly high-pitched, carrying a hysterical excitement.Finally, he reached into the inner pocket of his overcoat and carefully brought out that glinting golden object, which seemed to contain endless destructive power."And the most important thing, the one that decides everything, is..."Spandam held the golden den den mushi high above his head, letting the sunlight hit its golden shell and reflect a heart-stopping light."I now hold this golden den den mushi! I have the supreme right to initiate... a 'Buster Call' at any time!""Buster Call?"Robin's pupils suddenly constricted to the size of needlepoints. A massive wave of fear, like ice water, instantly drenched her entire body, making her tremble uncontrollably."That's right! That very Buster Call!"Spandam savored Robin's reaction, his words falling one by one like a heavy hammer striking her heart."Twenty years ago, the absolute power that completely wiped the land of your birth—the sacred archaeological site known as 'Ohara'—off the map!In a single night, the island sank and its civilization was severed! This is the consequence of making the world your enemy!""Robin's... hometown?"Chopper's hearing was excellent; even across the waterfall and the sound of rushing water, he clearly caught that phrase, and an indescribable rage welled up in his heart."Damn it... that masked bastard! I want to rush over right now and kick his face along with that mask into pieces!"Sanji gritted his teeth, veins throbbing at his temples. He looked anxiously at Franky."Hey! Franky! What on earth are your lackeys dawdling for? Why hasn't the drawbridge been lowered yet?"Franky watched the golden den den mushi with his arms crossed. "You can be'Super' at ease with my little brothers handling things.""No! You absolutely must not initiate the Buster Call!"Robin's voice carried an unprecedented terror and despair. She stumbled forward a step, her chains clattering."Ooh ooh ooh! That's the expression! That bone-deep fear! It's simply wonderful! It's so exciting!"Spandam laughed pathologically, intoxicated by the atmosphere of fear he had personally created."You... you have no idea what a Buster Call truly means!"Robin interrupted his wild laughter with what was almost a roar."Of course I know!"Spandam spread his hands dismissively, his tone flippant."As long as I press down lightly with this finger, the highest combat power from Marineford—""Five Marine Vice Admirals and the elite fleet under their command will turn this Enies Lobby and the surrounding waters into scorched earth!For you pirates, the chance of escape is practically zero! What a simple and clear result!""How could it be that simple?!"Robin's voice rose, carrying an urgency as she tried to wake him up to the reality."That isn't some kind of righteous judgment at all, it's...""Are you remembering some past you'd rather not look back on?"Spandam speculated maliciously, a playful smile on his face.His finger made a move as if to press the golden button on the back of the golden den den mushi."In that case, let me press it personally and see exactly what earth-shattering thing will happen!""It's an indiscriminate attack!!"Robin shouted the words with all her might, her voice filled with a lesson learned in blood and tears.Spandam's finger abruptly stopped in mid-air, only a hair's breadth from the button.His wild laughter came to a sudden halt. The smug expression on his face froze instantly, turning into bewilderment and a flicker of subtle panic."Hey, hey, hey... what nonsense are you talking about? How could it... attack its own people?"Cold sweat immediately seeped from his forehead. If what Robin said was true, then this Buster Call was an uncontrollable double-edged sword that might even consume him, the initiator, first!"Twenty years ago... it took everything from me and disrupted the lives of countless people!"Robin stood up, ignoring the restraint of her chains, and approached the edge of the broken wall. Her voice trembled, yet it carried a determination to reveal the truth."That is not a precision strike at all! It is an extermination attack that makes no distinction between soldiers and civilians, friend or foe, completely and utterly erasing all life and structures within the target area from the world!This attack is now threatening the companions I finally managed to meet, who allowed me to open my heart!"Her gaze swept over the familiar faces on the opposite shore, and tears filled her eyes once more."The more I want to be with you, the more my destiny brings destructive disaster upon you!No matter where I flee, powerful enemies I can't escape will always follow behind me..."Because my enemy... is the world itself, and the massive order it represents!""Ahahaha! Well said! Beautifully said!"Spandam seemed to have found his footing again and began to laugh wildly once more.He rushed a few steps to the railing at the edge of the platform, steadied himself, and jerked his arm up.His finger pointed straight at the massive flag fluttering in the wind at the highest point of the Tower of Justice!"Stupid pirates! Look up! Look clearly at that symbol!"Everyone's gaze followed his finger, focusing on that flag—On a white background, five black dots were connected by lines, forming a simple yet incomparably majestic cross-shaped pattern."That symbol! It represents the four vast oceans surrounding the world and the union of over 170 allied nations on the Grand Line!!"Spandam spread his arms as if to embrace the entire world, his face full of arrogance and contempt."This is the 'World'! This is the behemoth you are opposing!And you who resist it, do you know how insignificant you are?Do you know by how massive and unshakeable an organization this woman and that little girl are being hunted?""Finally..."Luffy's gaze was fixed deathly on that flag, his eyes under the brim of his hat as sharp as knives."Finally, I know who Robin's enemy is!"Normally, he cared deeply about flags; whether it was his own Straw Hat pirate flag or someone else's, he wouldn't deliberately insult or destroy them.But this time, the will represented by the opponent's flag had completely enraged him.He didn't look back, but gave an order to the sniper behind him in a calm yet unquestionable tone:"Sogeking.""Shoot through... that flag for me.""Understood!"Usopp didn't hesitate for a second, quickly taking down the special slingshot with its telescopic function from his back.He took a deep breath, stood with his feet apart, lowered his waist, and pulled the tough rubber band to its maximum length with all his strength.In the pouch lay a specially made gunpowder iron pellet."Sure Kill: Firebird Star!"He gave a low shout, aimed, and fired—all in one fluid motion!"Swoosh—!"The iron pellet flew through the air and suddenly exploded in mid-flight!Countless tongues of searing flame intertwined and condensed, transforming into a lifelike fire phoenix soaring with outspread wings!With a determination that knew no retreat, it charged toward the World Government flag atop the Tower of Justice!"Snap—!!!"The burning phoenix's head struck with pinpoint accuracy right in the center of the flag, on the black dot symbolizing the World Governmentheadquarters!The flames instantly pierced the fabric of the flag and rapidly ignited it!The blazing firelight danced in the eyes of the CP9 members and all the Marines, reflecting their faces filled with shock and disbelief.The entire Enies Lobby seemed to fall into a deathly silence at this moment."Done!"Usopp leaned his slingshot heavily against the glazed tiles of the flag platform, panting slightly, yet his tone was full of pride."They... they actually shot it!""These pirates... do they not know what it means to shoot through that flag?""Crazy! They've gone completely mad! The pirates... the pirates have declared war on the World Government!!"After a brief, deathly silence, inside and outside the courthouse—whether on the roof, in the hall, or in the plaza—all the Marines and agents who witnessed this scene erupted like a boiling pot, with cries of alarm and uproar rising one after another!"You lunatics! Is there something wrong with your heads?"Spandam recovered from his extreme shock, his voice turning shrill and distorted with fear."Now you are completely and utterly on the opposite side of the World Government!Do you even want to keep living in this world?""Suit me just fine!"Luffy dropped into a steady horse stance, his fists clenched at his waist. He jerked his head up, the gaze under his Straw Hat burning with unyielding fire.He used all his strength, his voice like rolling thunder, containing a King's Haki and an unquestionable resolve.Toward all of Enies Lobby, toward the entire world, he declared his will:"Robin! Ann!""Listen! Once, there was a man who, in order to protect me when I was young, lost an arm without a moment's hesitation!""Today, I will be just like him and use my life to protect you! Because—""You are my companions!!!""Companions..."Robin and Ann looked at that figure on the opposite shore—not tall, yet seemingly capable of propping up the entire sky. Tears, like broken strings of pearls, fell continuously down their cheeks.For them, their companions did not hesitate to declare war on the entire world!"The world is vast... one day, companions who are willing to protect you will appear..."The words of her late Giant Race friend, Saul, surged into Robin's heart like a warm tide, washing away the loneliness and despair that had been frozen for twenty years.She looked at each of her companions on the other side—Luffy's resolve, Zoro's sharpness, Sanji's tenderness, Nami's intelligence, Usopp's caution, Chopper's kindness, Franky's boldness, Mark's steadiness...On every face was written the same determination: rescue their companions, no matter the cost!The final shackles deep within her heart shattered completely at this moment."If... if someone like me, so heavily burdened with sin and rejected by the world... can also make a wish..."Robin's voice choked, yet it carried an unprecedented clarity and firmness.She and Ann exchanged a look, seeing the same light in each other's eyes, and then both of them used their last bit of strength to scream toward the opposite shore:"Please take us... out to sea with you! Future Pirate King!!!"Hearing this long-awaited, heartfelt cry, the solemn expressions on the faces of the Straw Hat crew finally melted. The corners of their mouths curled up in unison, revealing relieved and brilliant smiles."Waaaah—uhu-hu! Damn it! I really... love you bastards to death! Idiot, I'm not crying!"Franky was the first to lose control of his emotions, wailing like a child. Tears gushed out like fountains; he kept wiping them with his arms, but they only seemed to flow more."Heh heh!"Luffy grinned, revealing his signature large laugh full of sunshine and confidence."Alright! Everyone... let's go!""Mark!"Luffy shouted."On it!"Mark understood immediately, using'Shave' to teleport to the edge of the roof in front of Luffy.He stretched his hands forward, palms facing each other, and a thick, substantive rainbow-colored mist gushed out from his palms.AI Model: gemini-3.1-flash-liteQuickly, a stable Rainbow Passage, shimmering with magnificent light, was constructed in the void between the cliff and the platform on the opposite side!It was the space-traversing — — Rainbow Passage!"Let's go! Brothers!""Robin! Merry! I'm coming right now!"Luffy roared, his body launching out like a spring, and he was the first to charge into that magnificent Rainbow Passage!"Finally, I can cut down some decent opponents!"Zoro licked his lips, his three swords already in hand, and charged toward the light gate with high fighting spirit.However, just as he reached the entrance, he was solidly kicked in the butt by a foot flying from behind!"Idiot Marimo! Don't block the way!"Sanji's voice followed immediately. Before Zorocould get angry, he had already flashed his figure and rushed into the Rainbow Passage one step ahead."What is that? Hey! Who? Who can tell me what the hell that is?!!"Spandam watched helplessly as that illogical light gate appeared and saw the Straw Hat crew file in one by one. Scared out of his wits, his legs went weak, and he fell directly onto the cold corridor floor.Under his terrified gaze, the air at the other end of the corridor inside the Tower of Justice twisted, and another Rainbow Passage suddenly opened!"Whoosh!"Just as Luffy's head poked out from the light gate, a black figure appeared before him like a ghost!It was none other than Rob Lucci!"Shave!"Lucci's fist was wrapped in powerful Armament Haki, and with a shrill whistle that tore through the air, it struck straight at Luffy's face!The speed was extreme!"Busoshoku: Hardening!"Luffy reacted with lightning speed; his forehead was instantly covered in jet-black Armament Haki, and he met Lucci's iron fist head-on with his own forehead!"Bang!!!"Fist and forehead collided, erupting with a roar like metal clashing, sending sparks flying everywhere!"Ah—!"Luffy roared. The resilience of his rubber body combined with the strength of his Haki allowed him to force back Lucci's seemingly certain-to-hit punch!However, just as Luffy withstood the attack, his rubber arm immediately stretched out, reaching for Robin, who was close at hand.Kaku flashed, pulling Robin behind him a step earlier.Luffy grabbed at empty air. He glanced at the Kakuwho had blocked him, then his cold gaze locked back onto Lucci in front."Hey... you guy, you're the strongest one among this bunch, right! Pigeon Guy!"Luffy's fists clenched, cracking loudly, his fighting spirit boiling."To kill you, that's enough. Rubber man."Lucci's voice still held no emotional fluctuation. He lowered his folded arms and assumed an offensive stance."Tempest Kick!"Lucci raised his leg and slashed horizontally; a blue vacuum slash wave, like a giant scimitar, whistled toward Luffy!Luffy nimbly dodged to the side.Sanji, who had just landed steadily from the light gate behind him, narrowed his eyes, and his right leg swung up like a battle axe!"Collier Shoot!""Bang!"With a muffled thud, Sanji precisely kicked that Tempest Kick slash into pieces!Having dealt with the incoming attack, Sanji didn't waste any words. His figure blurred again, and using "Shave," he instantly appeared in front of the CP9 rookie, Nero!This guy was currently holding Merry!Cold light exploded in Sanji's eyes, and a vicious kick slammed directly toward Nero's face!"Iron Body!"At the critical moment, Colonel Shuu, user of the Rust-Rust Fruit, flashed over. Using his arm covered with the "Iron Body" hardening effect, he forcefully blocked Sanji's angry strike!"Thud!"A heavy impact sound rang out. Shuu was kicked sideways by the immense force, slamming hard into a distant wall. The arm he used to block showed an unnatural bend; clearly, the bone was fractured."Hehe..."Shuu endured the severe pain, but a sinister smile of success appeared on his face."The power of the Rust-Rust Fruit isn't pleasant, is it?"Sanji could be seen working the ankle that had just made contact with Shuu, his brows slightly furrowed.The hem of his trousers and the edge of his leather boot, which Shuu had grabbed, showed obvious signs of rust, and there was a sense of stiffness when moving his joint."It's alright,"Sanji shook his leg, forcibly suppressing the discomfort, and retorted in a cold tone,"Compared to that arm of yours that's about to be scrapped, I feel a thousand times better!""Ah! Don't come over! Protect me! Quickly protect me!"Spandam scrambled and crawled behind Lucci's broad back, issuing chaotic orders with a trembling voice,"Everyone listen! All CP9 members! I am lifting your restrictions! You can kill to your heart's content! The premise is to annihilate the entire Straw Hatcrew!...No! The premise is! You must absolutely ensure my safety!!""Lucci! You follow me! Protect my safety at close range! Everyone else, stop them! Immediately head for the Gates of Justice! Quickly!"He shouted incoherently, one hand roughly tugging at Robin's chains, signaling Nero to hold Merrytightly, and fled in a panic toward the breach T-Bone had slashed earlier, which led to the passage beneath the tower."Luffy!"Robin and Merry looked back, calling out anxiously."Don't even think about it!"Luffy roared, stomping the ground, intending to use "Gum-Gum Rocket" to charge straight over!"Whoosh!"Kaku's figure flashed again. This time, he held a sharp long sword in each hand, blocking Luffy's path of charge like a door god.The dual blades crossed, carrying a fierce blade light, and slashed ruthlessly toward Luffy's neck!Luffy seemed not to see it, continuing to charge forward regardless!Just as the blades were about to touch Luffy's skin—"Clang—!!!"Sparks flew! The sound of metal clashing was deafening!"Don't get in the way of my Captain, rectangle-nose!"Zoro's voice rang out, carrying biting killing intent!He had arrived through the Rainbow Passage at some point. Holding one sword in each hand, crossed over his head, he steadily caught Kaku's lethal dual-blade slash!"Roronoa Zoro!"Kaku looked at the green-haired swordsman before him, his eyes grave."Hmph, this place doesn't seem very suitable for a swordsman duel!"Kaku snorted coldly. Seeing the strike fail, he immediately changed tactics, his legs kicking out several fierce "Tempest Kick" slashes like a whirlwind, forcing Zoro to retreat and block.Taking advantage of the gap while Zoro was blocking, Kaku quickly pulled an ancient key from his chest pocket and waved it in front of Zoro."Look closely! This is the key to unlock the Sea Stone handcuffs on Nico Robin's hands! If you want to save her, follow me!"He left these words, his figure flashed, and using "Shave," he instantly disappeared at the end of the corridor, with only his voice echoing:"I'll be waiting for you on the third floor! Don't keep me waiting too long, Roronoa!""Tsk! In such a rush to dig your own grave? To actually use such a clumsy provocation."Zoro snorted coldly, yet without hesitation, he sheathed his swords, his sharp gaze locked on the end of the corridor where Kaku had disappeared, and he prepared to give chase."Zoro! Wait a second!"Usopp had just crawled out of the Rainbow Passageand hurriedly shouted upon seeing this."What now?"Zoro impatiently halted his steps, turning back to glare at him."Their words have zero credibility! You're our main combat force; don't fall for such an obvious lure-away-from-the-base tactic!"Usopp was so anxious he was jumping up and down."Chapapa! This time it's real! Please wait for me a moment!"Before he could finish, Kaku's spherical figure suddenly interjected. He nimbly pulled a primitive-looking key from his chest and waved it in front of everyone."Key? You have one too?"Usopp's eyes almost popped out."There are five keys in total to unlock the Sea Stonehandcuffs on Nico Robin's hands!"Kaku's zipper-like mouth opened and closed, emitting his unique verbal tic,"As for which one is real, please guess for yourselves! Chapapa!"After speaking, his fat body flipped backward with unusual agility, jumping directly down the waterfall. Immediately, the "Pop! Pop!" sounds of Moonwalkrang out under his feet, and he quickly hid into the complex building complex below."Sea Stone?"Franky, who had just walked out of the Rainbow Passage, heard the key term. This was his first time encountering this concept."It's a special stone that makes Devil Fruit users completely powerless and unable to use their abilities,"Nami followed closely, explaining in a grave tone,"And it's extremely sturdy; its hardness is said to exceed diamond!""In other words... are Robin and Merry completely unable to resist because of those handcuffs?"Chopper also walked out, his voice trembling with heartache,"They must be so unwilling...""That's right!"Sanji's voice suppressed fury, his cigarette flickering at the corner of his mouth,"If it weren't for that damn Sea Stone, how could Miss Merry be carried like that with her abilities! And Miss Robin would never be dragged around like a dog by that piece of trash!""Five keys? That means..."Usopp's brain spun rapidly. Suddenly remembering something, he shouted at Mark, who was preparing to jump into the next Rainbow Passage:"Mark! Wait a second! On that werewolf lying over there! He must have a key too!"Mark halted his steps upon hearing this, turning to look at Jabra, who was sprawled out like a dead dog not far away.He walked over, unceremoniously grabbed Jabra by the scruff of his neck with one hand, leaped back to the center of the flag platform, and held the werewolf out in front of everyone like an exhibit:"Are we searching this guy?""That's right!"Mark's face showed undisguised disgust as he began searching through Jabra's tattered clothes.The items pulled out were all sorts of things—crumpled love letters (with a heart), a cheap-looking engagement ring... Finally, in an inner pocket, he felt a cold, uniquely patterned key.With the key in hand, the next second, Mark swung his arm as if throwing away some dirty object, tossing the unconscious Jabra directly off the flag platform. That massive body traced an arc, falling straight into the roaring waterfall abyss below."So... so cold-blooded!"Usopp shrank his neck at the sight."So... so scary!"Chopper was scared into hugging Nami's leg."Is there a problem?"Zoro crossed his arms, feeling this way of handling it was clean and efficient; if it were him, he might have even added a slash to ensure there were no future troubles."Very good, might even solve an enemy while we're at it."Sanji exhaled a smoke ring, expressing agreement."Jabra—! My dear friend—! Wait! I'm coming to save you! Yo-yo-yi—!"Wedge immediately wailed in his exaggerated theatrical tone, then followed by jumping down the waterfall without hesitation!As for whether he actually wanted to save someone or simply wanted to collect all five keys, the mist was too thick, and no one could see clearly."What are you still standing there for?! Do you want to surrender to the pirates?"Kalifa, who had been watching coldly from the sidelines, adjusted her glasses and sternly ordered the surrounding bewildered agents and Marines,"The officer's order is to exterminate the Straw Hatcrew! No need to hold back!""Yes!!"This group of soldiers, stunned by the series of events, finally snapped out of it. They raised their weapons one after another, shouts of killing rang out again, and they charged toward the Straw Hatcrew on the flag platform!A melee broke out instantly!And Kalifa herself, taking advantage of this chaos, leaped backward gracefully. Like a dance, she fell down the waterfall, precisely kicked through a window in mid-air, and her figure disappeared into the interior of the Tower of Justice.
Chapter 172: Zoro vs. Kaku"Before I cut down that long-nose, warming up with your zombie face first won't be bad!"Zoro shifted his sword, pointing directly at MarineColonel T-Bone."Hey! Zoro, you seem to have a big problem with long noses!"Usopp touched his own long nose subconsciously, feeling offended."I was talking about that rectangular long nose!"Zoro corrected him without even turning his head."Am... am I being completely ignored?"T-Bone felt a great insult. He pulled his long sword behind his back to gather strength, then rushed toward Zoro, roaring as he slashed down!"I hate curved sword styles the most!"Zoro didn't even look him in the eye. He used wado ichimonji to parry easily with a backhand, then took advantage of the momentum to turn, his right hand's yodo himawari slashing out with scorching heat!T-Bone was shocked, hurriedly retreating, narrowly avoiding the blade.He touched his cheek, looked at his fingertips, and saw a patch of bright red."Just... a casual strike and..."T-Bone couldn't believe he had been injured so easily.Unwilling to give up, he pulled his sword back again, his eyes becoming incomparably serious."Oh? Now that looks like something." Seeing this, Zoro bit wado ichimonji in his mouth, while drawing the cold-exuding shura with a "clang.""I know, I might not be your opponent," T-Bone said in a low voice, his eyes unusually firm, "but I hate all curved, insincere sword styles! And I hate people who shrink back from a fight even more!"As soon as he finished speaking, he rushed at Zoroagain without hesitation!"Right-Angle Slash — Big Bird."The peculiar right-angle slash refracted twice in the air, attacking Zoro with a tricky trajectory.A terrifying red light flashed in Zoro's left eye. Facing the bizarre attack, he just swung his two swords casually, accurately predicting the landing point after the slash refracted, and shattered it to pieces!"Oh no! Was it seen through?"T-Bone's heart tightened. He wanted to change his move, but Zoro didn't give him the chance."Three Sword Style · Ox Demon!"Zoro's figure lunged like a ghost, his three swords seemingly forming the sharp claws of a wild beast."Brave Claws!"Three intersecting slashes, like the sharp talons of a falcon, fiercely clawed at T-Bone's chest!Blood splattered instantly. This Marine Colonel who insisted on his own "upright" sword path fell heavily to the ground, but his hand was still gripping that long sword tightly."A worthy opponent."Zoro sheathed his swords and untied the bandana from his forehead."Stop trying to look cool over there! I can't hold on much longer over here!"Usopp's scream came from nearby. He was using the hard material of his slingshot to barely parry the siege of four elite agents, looking miserable.Other companions were also entangled by enemies and couldn't break free.Sanji was dealing with the pincer attack of Colonel Shu and the Ramen Fruit user Wanze, finding it hard to escape."I'm here!"Mark's voice was like timely rain. He leaped out from the Rainbow Passage!With just a sharp side kick, he sent the four agents fighting Usopp flying."Ink Meteor!"Following his call, the black short staff behind his waist shot out, transforming into a mighty four-meter-tall lion in mid-air!The lion let out a heaven-shaking roar, then slapped a giant claw into the crowd, instantly splitting the chaotic battlefield apart."You guys go quickly and settle CP9! Leave the small fry here to me; it's more efficient to clean them up, no need to waste time here!"Mark stood beside the lion and shouted to his companions."Oh! Then I'll leave it to you, Mark!"Usopp felt like he had been granted amnesty and ran off in a flash. This kind of direct melee was indeed not his area of expertise."Since the Vice Captain said so..."Zoro sheathed his swords and followed Usoppwithout hesitation.Nami, Chopper, and others also shook off their opponents, called out, and rushed into the Tower of Justice, starting to search for traces of CP9."What a reliable man!"Franky watched his subordinates finally successfully lower the drawbridge. At this moment, this drawbridge was no longer a path for attack, but a lifeline for their retreat after rescuing their companions."I'll leave my subordinates to you too!""Big brothers! We did it!"The Franky Family subordinates stood on the opposite bank, shouting excitedly toward the Tower of Justice."Look! It's Boss Mark!""Boss Mark! Go for it!""So noisy! Don't come over! You'll only cause trouble! Retreat immediately!"Mark roared at them. He truly didn't want these subordinates to get involved in the battle here; the enemies here were on a completely different level than the ones at the tribunal.The weakest one was probably that Ramen Fruit user."Then we'll leave it to you, Boss Mark!"The Franky Family subordinates also understood the gap, quickly joined up with the shipwrights, and retreated toward the Central Plaza."Alright!"Mark's black hair moved without wind, and his eyes turned cold instantly."Kill!"Just one word pronounced the ending for all the enemies present."Stop right there!"Luffy used his rubber arm to grab a distant railing, his body shooting out like a cannonball!"Gum-Gum Rocket!"He charged straight at Lucci, forcing the other party to stop."Soru!""Shigan!"Lucci's figure disappeared, appearing next to Luffythe next moment, his fingertip piercing out rapidly!Luffy was in mid-air with no leverage and was accidentally hit!But Shigan only poked a few holes in his clothes, the rubber skin behind bulging exaggeratedly, dissipating the impact force completely."Useless!"Luffy fell onto the corridor, smashing a large pit, but stood up dusting himself off like nothing happened."Soru!"Lucci's voice carried a trace of coldness, "Just now, I simply didn't cover it with Haki, Rubber Man."He tapped his feet lightly and disappeared again using "Soru."Luffy immediately focused his mind, using Observation Haki to perceive his surroundings, guarding against Lucci appearing from any angle."Ah! Don't run!"However, his perception told him that Lucci wasn't attacking, but... had run far away!Luffy immediately strode to chase wildly.Whether it was relying on a swordsman's intuition or pure luck, Zoro pushed open the heaviest door on the floor labeled with the huge number "3."Behind the door was exactly CP9's luxury lounge.Kaku was sitting leisurely on a chair by the dining table, the remains of the Devil Fruit on the table not yet cleared away.He had his feet on the table, facing away from the door."A man like a demon beast, truly terrifying!"Kaku said, turning around, and picked up two long swords leaning against the chair."However, my sword skills are also second to none in CP9."He extended the two swords in front of him, legs slightly bent, striking a pose. "Don't underestimate me!""Two Sword Style?"Seeing this, Zoro also drew the two swords at his waist, preparing to respond with the same style.Kaku, however, threw the two swords into the air while spinning, caught them with both hands the moment they fell, used the blade tips to support himself on the ground, borrowed the force to leap into the air, and kicked out two ground-flying slashes with his legs simultaneously like whips!"Rankyaku!"Zoro reacted very quickly, swinging his two swords from the center to the sides, accurately shattering the slashes!The scattered sword energy cut the luxury bookshelves on both sides of the room, along with the books on them, in half."Sorry, guessed wrong, I use Four Sword Style."Kaku raised his head, his eyes full of provocation."Hmph, I've cut down guys who were weapons all over their bodies, it doesn't matter what style you use!"Zoro bit wado ichimonji in his mouth, all three swords drawn."Take this!"Zoro rushed forward, launching the attack first."Hmph!"Kaku drew his two swords, and the two instantly engaged in battle!Amidst the sword flashes and shadows, the sound of metal clashing was endless, and they had already exchanged more than ten moves in a short moment.Kaku suddenly leaped into the air and kicked out!"Rankyaku · White Thunder!""One Sword Style · Eagle Wave!"Zoro swung out a slash, colliding with the White Thunder, erupting with blinding white light, canceling each other out."Soru!"Kaku's figure disappeared, appearing instantly to the side and below Zoro, kicking out a slash along the ground!Zoro seemed to have predicted this move, having already inserted yodo himawari into the floor beside his feet, just in time to block this sneak attack.He took the opportunity to slash, but Kakuimmediately spun his body to avoid it.The two didn't pause at all, almost simultaneously unleashing high-speed slashes!Swish!The two figures crossed each other!The brim of Kaku's black cap was silently sliced off, drifting to the ground."Hahaha! Truly satisfying!"Kaku laughed, "This is much better than boring assassination missions or cutting down targets with no strength to truss a chicken!""I don't have time to play with you, hand over the key."Zoro turned around, his blade pointing directly at Kaku."Then come and try to see if you can take it from my corpse!"Kaku jumped, inserted his two swords into the ceiling, curled up above like a bat, and kicked dozens of dense slashes downward at Zoro like a violent storm!"Rankyaku · Ran!"Zoro swung his two swords, dancing them so tightly that not even wind could pass through, not only shattering all the slashes one by one but also seizing the gap to return two sharp slashes.Kaku pulled out his two swords and landed lightly. The position where he was originally hanging had been completely pierced through by Zoro's slashes!"Are you messing with me?"Zoro was somewhat annoyed; although his opponent's attacks were flashy, they were clearly intended to stall."How could I dare! You are worthy of the name Roronoa Zoro! Your bounty does not match your strength at all."Kaku said, plunging his dual blades into the floor in front of him."Then, it is time for you to witness the power I have recently obtained!"Directly beneath the fierce battle between Zoro and Kaku, Usopp was engaged in a great undertaking—opening "blind boxes" one room after another."Haha, are they all afraid of me, the great Captain?"He pushed open a door, quickly poked his head in, and then closed it."Nobody here... thankfully..."Then, the next room."Click.""Nothing in this one either...""Yoyoi! It seems... an uninvited guest has arrived!"A strange voice rang out.There stood Wedge, the lion-man, holding a monk's staff and performing a strange dance."Ahhh! CP9! And there are two of them!"Usopp was so terrified his hair stood on end!"Two?"He looked closely and realized that lying on the small lawn in the room was none other than the wolf-man, Jabra.He surveyed the room; it had rockeries, a fountain, and a huge character for "Wolf" written on the wall. It was clearly Jabra's territory."Wedge... help me up!"Jabra called out in a weak voice."My comrade! That you could maintain consciousness after suffering such heavy injuries is a miracle in itself! Yoyoi!"Wedge said, aiming his palm at Usopp."Life Return!"His long white hair instantly began to grow wildly!"Special Attack: Fire Oil Star!"Usopp reacted with lightning speed, immediately firing a sticky oil pellet that hit Wedge's growing hair with precision.He had participated in the interrogation of Blueno, so he had some understanding of Wedge's abilities and had prepared fifteen emergency plans.In his opinion, burning the lion's head was the most reliable one."This is... oil?!"The wolf-man's nose was exceptionally sensitive, and he immediately called out a warning."Yoyoi! It is oil...!"Because Wedge was a beat too slow to respond, the tragedy had already occurred."Fire Bird Star!"Usopp showed no mercy and fired immediately; the flames instantly ignited the oil-soaked hair!The long hair was now his greatest burden; the more Wedge tried to attack with it, the faster the fire spread!"Ah! Hot! It's burning me!"Wedge jumped around in pain, accidentally stepping on Jabra's stomach."Crack!"A clear sound of bone cracking echoed; Jabra's bones, which had just been set, were broken again by his "good friend."Wedge was too busy with his own problems to care about Jabra."Water... I need water!"He shrieked, smashed directly through the wall, and sprinted away..."Rounding up, I, Captain Usopp, have single-handedly taken down two CP9 members! Hahaha!"Usopp was already excitedly planning how to brag about this heroic feat to Chopper in the future."Ah! Oh no! The keys... what am I doing?!"He suddenly remembered his main objective and was about to rush out to search when, suddenly—"Boom!!!"The ceiling above suddenly collapsed!Debris and dust filled the air."Oh no... I meant to transform into my hybrid form, so why did I turn into a full giraffe?!"A panicked voice came from the dust."A wolf? A giraffe? And that leopard... is this Enies Lobby or a zoo?"Zoro's figure descended amidst the falling debris, his biting retort sharp even while mid-air."Ah! The ceiling collapsed! Zoro! And... ahhh, what the hell is that thing! A talking giraffe!!"Usopp covered his head and screamed; the scene was utter chaos."Ah! This is Jabra's room... by the way, where is Jabra?"Kaku, now a giraffe, surveyed the room that had become a ruin."He's buried! Do you need me to carve a tombstone for him? Since we're acquaintances, I'll give you a twenty percent discount!"Usopp shouted from behind a broken wall, looking completely serious."Ah! Oh no!"Kaku immediately used his long neck to rummage through the ruins and quickly dug out the half-dead Jabra."Hey! Jabra! Are you still alive?"Kaku carefully picked up Jabra's paper-thin body with his massive hooves and gently nudged him with the other."Stop shaking me... I think I can still be saved..."Jabra said, his voice barely a whisper."Kaku?"He forced his eyes open despite the excruciating pain, and at the sight, he nearly laughed his last breath away."Hahaha... is this the ability of the Devil Fruit you ate? A giraffe... it suits you too well... haha... ah, ouch, ouch, ouch!"He immediately closed his eyes, his body trembling violently from the pain and the effort to hold back his laughter."Don't make me laugh, you idiot! My bones are about to fall apart from laughing... no, wait, they were already broken!""Stop laughing... you idiot!"Although Kaku was in his giraffe form, he retained that signature square long nose, which was now almost poking Jabra in the face."Quick, take away my memory! Every time I think of how you look now, I can't help but laugh... haha... ouch!""Is it that strange? I think it's not bad!"Kaku attempted to maintain his last shred of dignity."Hey! Didn't I say? I don't have time to watch you two getting cozy here! If you're so satisfied with that pose, I'm going to attack right now!"Zoro's blade pointed at Kaku once more, his tone full of impatience."Idiot! Who is getting cozy with him!"Kaku only then realized how bizarre his pose was—cradling Jabra like a princess, their two long noses nearly touching—and hastily helped Jabra reset his main bones with a few rough movements before tossing him into a corner like garbage."Don't underestimate the destructive power a giraffe possesses! I will now show you... my strongest form!"As he spoke, Kaku's body began to change, gradually shrinking."Giraffe Hybrid Form!"Finally, a strange creature appeared before them, wearing a suit, with an incredibly long neck, legs bent at reverse joints, and a tail dragging on the ground."That's hideous...!"Zoro blurted it out almost subconsciously!"Ah...! What did you say?! You... you bastard..."Kaku was thunderstruck and panicked.This was completely different from the majestic form he had imagined!Zoro also bit down on the hilt of his sword, feeling annoyed in his heart:"How could I say something so shallow... I was just so shocked that I... it must be because I've been with Mark and Usopp for too long; even I've become this vulgar... No, I must stay calm; a disturbed mind will affect my swordsmanship!""Whoa!"Just as Zoro was stunned, Usopp made a shocking move—he used his slingshot to launch a pair of Sea Stone handcuffs from the corner. The cuffs flew in an arc, landing perfectly with a "click," locking onto Zoro's wrists!"Ah! Usopp! What the hell are you doing?!"Zoro turned his head and roared at Usopp, his eyes practically spitting fire."Sorry, Zoro! Well... I just thought since he's a Devil Fruit user and there happened to be Sea Stonehandcuffs nearby, I'd try to cuff him..."Usopp explained with an innocent look."Then why did you cuff me?!"Zoro was so angry he gritted his teeth."Sorry... that guy's appearance was just... hahaha, too funny! So my hand slipped...!"Usopp pointed at Kaku, unable to stop himself from laughing again."...But, it is pretty funny!"Zoro tried hard to stifle his laughter, his shoulders shaking slightly."You guys... one by one... all of you... I must make you feel my power!"Kaku was thoroughly enraged!He planted one hand on the ground, and his long neck and legs began to spin at high speed around the support point, spinning faster and faster!"Not good... some kind of large-scale attack is coming!"Usopp exclaimed."Idiot! Get down!"Although Zoro was wearing the handcuffs, his movements remained swift; he lunged and tackled Usopp to the ground!"Rankyaku: Amanedachi!"With Kaku's roar, a massive circular slash expanded rapidly in all directions with him at the center!A blinding blue light flashed by!Followed by the teeth-grinding sound of cutting...When the light faded, the entire Tower of Justice, starting from the floor they were on, had been sliced clean in half by the slash!The cut was as smooth as a mirror; the upper half of the massive tower slowly shifted, sliding away a terrifying distance of thirty centimeters!"My... room...!"In the corner, Jabra, with only one breath left, let out a final, resentful moan, complaining that his colleague had completely wrecked the room he had meticulously crafted.
Chapter 173: The Wretched Kumadori and Sanji's Chivalry"Hot... it's burning me—!"Kumadori had turned into a miserable human fireball, wildly dashing around the spacious first floor of the Tower of Justice.His shrill wails, accompanied by the crackling of the flames, created an incredibly bizarre scene.Nami and Chopper, who had just arrived, were left dumbfounded by this sudden sight."What kind of weird move is this? It feels... pretty impressive!"Hiding behind Nami, Chopper watched with wide eyes as the fireball repeatedly used'Soru' to move at high speeds near the stairs, crashing into the walls and leaving charred marks.They didn't realize at all that there was actually a person inside the fireball."A moving fireball... Nami, do you think this is one of those attacks with an auto-tracking function?"Chopper's voice trembled as he shrunk further behind Nami."How could there be such a chaotic attack...""Ah! It's charging over! Don't come over here!"Before Nami could finish, the fireball charged straight toward her and Chopper like an out-of-control cannonball!Nami frowned; as a Logia user, she wasn't afraid of fire, but the fluffy Chopper behind her was highly flammable!In the heat of the moment, she didn't have time to think. She simply raised her hand and delivered a slap born of reflex and a bit of anger, crackling with blue electrical arcs!"Slap—!"A crisp, loud sound of a slap rang out.The fireball was actually sent flying by Nami's 'Lightning Slap,' like a soccer ball being kicked.It traced an arc and slammed hard into the side wall, crashing through it and leaving a large hole amidst a cloud of dust."This feeling..."Nami stared at her palm in a daze, a subtle sense of familiarity welling up in her heart."Why does it feel like... I've slapped this before? Is it an illusion?""Nami, look... that's..."Chopper's exclamation interrupted her thoughts as his hoof pointed toward the large crater in the ground further away.A white figure lay powerlessly in the pit, but this person's 'art style' was extremely peculiar—His whole body looked like modeling clay kneaded by some immense force; the lines were blurred, the contours gone, and his entire face was as smooth as a boiled egg.Only those signature curly eyebrows and the tattered white suit revealed the person's identity."Ah! It's Sanji!"Chopper cried out and immediately galloped over on his little hooves to check the injuries.Nami also walked closer, but her gaze didn't linger on Sanji at the bottom of the pit; instead, she looked sharply toward the broken railing on the third floor.Sanji had undoubtedly fallen from there.However, Nami wasn't looking at the damaged railing, but at the familiar figure looming behind it."Sanji-kun,"Nami's voice carried a hint of complex emotion as she looked down into the pit."Did you really lose, or did you just not fight seriously? Your opponent... was that woman, wasn't it?"She paused, her tone filled with understanding and a touch of helplessness."You're always far too kind to women.""I'm sorry, Miss Nami..."Sanji buried his face in the dirt, his voice muffled and full of shame."I couldn't... get the key. I'm sorry!""I'm not talking about the key!"Nami's voice rose, filled with worry and reproach."I'm saying your chivalry will be the death of you sooner or later! If you had died just like that, what would we have done?!""I didn't want to die..."Sanji struggled to turn his head, facing Nami with a face even more abstract than the one on his bounty poster, as he explained haltingly."It's just... since I was a child, I was taught that my legs... must never be used to kick a woman."Though his voice was weak, it carried an unquestionable firmness."So... even if I die, I... will never kick a woman."Seeing his battered yet stubborn appearance, Nami's tense expression finally softened, and the corners of her mouth curled upward uncontrollably."What an... incurable idiot."She scolded him, but her clima-tact gently tapped the back of Sanji's head with a sense of exasperated affection."A super big idiot!""Hey! Nami! What are you doing! Sanji is already hurt this badly!"Seeing Nami's action, Chopper immediately roared at her in distress."If you chose to strategically retreat when facing a woman, that would count as having a bit of knightly wisdom;"},{"But if you just stand there waiting to die, that's nothing but pure idiocy!"As Nami spoke, she looked up again, locking her gaze on the figure leaning against the railing upstairs—Kalifa."That woman, leave her to me!"She turned back and gave Sanji a smile."But... I've come to see your foolish chivalry in a slightly... different light.""Ah? Miss Nami! Did you just say... you've finally become a bit infatuated with me?"Upon hearing this, Sanji snapped his head up as if he'd been given a shot of adrenaline, his eyes instantly filling with hearts."She didn't say that at all!"Chopper mercilessly pressed a hoof onto his face, pinning him back to the ground.Nami ignored him, twirling her clima-tact in her hand before pointing it at Kalifa upstairs, declaring loudly:"I'm not a gentle person, you loser!""Hehe..."Kalifa pushed up her glasses, a cold light glinting off the lenses."I am no longer the same person I was before...""A Devil Fruit ability?" Nami's eyes sharpened."Then let me see just how much you've improved!"Just as she was about to move, a raspy and stubborn voice came from the hole in the wall."Don't... don't think of escaping! I... I won't let you have your way... Yo-yo-i...""Who?!"Nami and Chopper both turned warily toward the large hole made by the fireball.A pitch-black figure stumbled out from the dust of the opening.Wisps of black smoke rose from his entire body, but the most eye-catching part was his head—It was completely bald and blackened, even reflecting a bit of light."Who is this bald guy? Is he also a member of CP9?"Chopper tilted his head and asked calmly, clearly not recognizing the person before him."I've never seen him... Has a coal spirit come to life?"Nami also shook her head in confusion; the "African refugee" before them was impossible to associate with the long, white-haired Kumadori from before."I'll handle this pitch-black coal spirit! Nami, you go after that woman!"Chopper pinched his nose, looking at the "unidentified object" radiating a burnt smell with a look of disgust.If the situation weren't urgent, he really wouldn't want to get close."Alright, I'll leave it to you!"Nami nodded; in just those few moments, Kalifa had already disappeared from upstairs, so she had to give chase immediately."Wait... wait... wait a minute..."Kumadori, who had turned into a piece of human charcoal, was still stubbornly hopping on one leg, trying to block them."Ah—! Just looking at you is disgusting!"Chopper instantly switched to his hybrid form, his massive hooves gathering strength as his muscles tensed."Kokutei: Cross!"A massive cross-shaped shockwave slammed squarely into Kumadori's stomach!Kumadori, who had just crawled out, didn't even finish a sentence before he was sent flying back like a broken kite, landing precisely in the wall cavity he had just emerged from with a dull thud."Ah, my hooves got dirty!"Seeing his hooves turned black, Chopperunhesitatingly grabbed the hem of Sanji's white suit on the ground and began scrubbing vigorously."You idiot! Emergency food! What the hell are you doing?! This is one of my favorite suits!!!"Sanji's roar suddenly echoed through the space, his anger level instantly hitting the roof."If I don't hurry, Robin will be taken away! Damn it... stop right there, you pigeon bastard!"Luffy sprinted with all his might through the complex corridors. Just as he was about to catch up, Lucci would always suddenly double back and intercept him with a fierce assault.However, as soon as Spandam's figure vanished at the end of his vision, Lucci would immediately use'Soru' to disengage, never lingering in the fight.It wasn't that Lucci didn't want to fight, but rather it was a direct order from Spandam—No matter what, protecting the chief's safety was the top priority, and he was never allowed to leave his side beyond a certain distance."Disappeared again?"Luffy reached a corner and found that the presence of both men had vanished once more.He closed his eyes, and his powerful Observation Haki spread out like ripples on water, carefully sensing every movement in the surroundings."In the basement? Damn it!"Luffy immediately determined where they had gone.He took a few steps back, his legs instantly turning into rubber and extending upward."Gomu Gomu no Armament War Axe!"His massive foot, coated in pitch-black Armament Haki, was raised high like a true battle-axe, then slammed down onto the floor with overwhelming force!"Boom-crack!"The floor exploded into pieces, sending debris flying as Luffy unhesitatingly leaped down."Ah—... oof!"He tumbled onto the cold ground, rolled, and immediately scrambled up to look around."Is this... the basement?"He patted the dust off his rear and immediately gave chase in the direction of the presence he sensed."Stop! Get back here!""Ahahaha! As long as they aren't familiar with the secret passages here, they'll never catch up!""Even if they happen to chase us here, there's no way they can get through that indestructible iron gate! Serves them right!"Spandam walked through the undersea tunnel leading to the 'Gates of Justice,' looking smug as if victory were already in sight.Meanwhile, Luffy finally arrived before the heavy steel gate."Clang, clang, clang!"Luffy pounded on the massive iron gate, which emitted dull, heavy thuds but remained completely motionless."It really is sturdy! How on earth do I open this?"Luffy rubbed his chin, falling into a brief moment of thought."If only Nami were here, she could pick the lock... oh right, lockpicking..."His gaze then fell on a rather complex-looking control console next to the gate."Oh! Do I operate it from here?"Luffy leaned in and began a frantic sequence of random operations, slapping and pulling at the console...A minute later, a thick plume of black smoke billowed from the console as various parts scattered across the floor, completely ruined."No other way then..."Looking at the completely unsalvageable console, Luffy made up his mind.He placed his thumb in his mouth and bit down hard!"Third Gear!"He blew air forcefully into his thumb, and his arm rapidly expanded like a balloon, turning into a massive fist comparable to a giant's in the blink of an eye!"Gomu Gomu no Gigant Pistol!"The giant fist, coated in pitch-black Armament Haki, acted like a launched battering ram, slamming into the meter-thick steel gate with a force that could destroy anything in its path!"BOOM—!!!"An ear-splitting explosion echoed through the narrow passage. The World Government symbol on the gate instantly shattered into pieces, and an irregular hole about three meters in diameter appeared in the center of the heavy door!The smoke slowly cleared, but Luffy was nowhere to be seen."Okay, I'm coming through now!"A high-pitched, youthful voice came from the ground.Due to the side effects of Third Gear, Straw Hat had shrunk into a cute little beanstalk.The oversized Straw Hat almost completely covered his small head, making it so he couldn't even see the path ahead.He struggled to hold up the massive hat, taking stumbling steps on his short legs as he waddled toward the hole in the gate...
Chapter 174: Guernica AttacksWithin the gloomy undersea passage, only the sounds of hurried footsteps and the grating noise of dragging chains echoed.Lucci and Nero marched one behind the other, escorting Robin and Merry, who were bound by Sea Stone chains, while Spandam walked in front, acting nervously.Suddenly, Spandam stopped abruptly and looked around nervously: "Wait! Just now... it seemed like some sound came from over there? Is it my imagination?""It's the sound of that rubber pirate destroying the door." Lucci stated the fact in a flat tone without turning his head, his pace remaining perfectly steady."How is that possible!" Spandam retorted shrilly. "Even heavy cannons couldn't blast that iron door open! Besides, Straw Hat Luffy could never find this underground passage!""It is simple for him to know." Lucci's voice remained cold. "He locked onto our location with Observation Haki long ago.""Ob... Observation Haki?" The rookie Nero looked blank. He had only mastered the basics of the Six Powers, and Haki was an unreachable realm for him."Therefore, you don't even have the qualifications to stand with us." Lucci's words were like cold knives, mercilessly stabbing at Nero. "Haki is a watershed. Without experiencing true slaughter, without the training of lingering on the edge of death, you will never cross this hurdle, rookie."His tone was full of disdain for such a "half-finished" existence like Nero, believing he tarnished the name of CP9.(Note: In reality, Nero's strength had reached the rank of Colonel, and in the original work, he had caused Franky to fall into a bitter battle.)"Th... that means, not only did Straw Hat Luffy find our route, but he is also chasing after us right now? Ah—! How terrifying!"Spandam grabbed his head and screamed in panic, his voice echoing in the enclosed passage."So noisy..." Lucci frowned."So it was my own echo..." Spandam realized, calming down slightly, but immediately issued orders to Lucci and Nero: "Listen up! No matter what happens, you must prioritize my safety! Do you understand?""Right, also, kill everyone who obstructs me! Opposing me is the same as opposing the World Government, so being killed is only natural!"He roared with bluster, then noticed the icy, bone-chilling, murderous gaze Robin was directing at him."What kind of look is that?" Spandam felt creeped out by Robin's gaze and roared in angry embarrassment. "You don't have time to worry about others right now, Nico Robin!""Lucci, take her, let's go!""Alright! Finally back to normal!" At the other end of the passage, Luffy sprinted while watching his body rapidly grow.Being turned into a child by the side effect of Third Gear just now, his short legs had made him extremely anxious, and he had fallen behind."You pigeon-raising bastard, and that square-faced idiot! I'm going to send you all flying!" Luffy gritted his teeth and pushed his speed to the limit. "Wait for me, Robin! Merry!"Above him, the Tower of Justice, which had just endured the recoil of the "Third Gear: Gigant Axe" and Kaku's slashing attack, had its massive cross-section misalignment become even more obvious, and it was already tottering.Mark sat leisurely atop a "mountain of people" piled up from numerous elite Marines and agents. He gently stroked the large head of Ink Meteor beside him and let out a long sigh of relief."Phew... cleaning up these people is really a bit tiring. However, it seems everyone is full of energy too!" He clapped his hands and was about to stand up to support his companions.The moment his words faded— "Whoosh!" "Whoosh!" "Whoosh!" Mark's figure evaded at high speed three times in a row without warning, leaving three afterimages in place!"Who?" Finally, he landed steadily in the center of the roof at the very top of the Tower of Justice. The lion transformed from Ink Meteor followed closely behind, backing against Mark, its fur standing on end, emitting a threatening low growl from its throat, scanning the surroundings vigilantly.On the rooftop, the distribution of fine dust was unnaturally disturbed. The next second, Mark's left leg, covered in pitch-black Armament Haki, swept sideways like lightning, moving fast enough to tear through the air and create a sonic boom!However, this strike actually missed! "Such fast speed!" A drop of cold sweat slid silently down Mark's forehead.Almost at the same time, Ink Meteor's huge claws, carrying a fierce wind, slashed fiercely to the front right! "Clang—!" A crisp sound like metal colliding finally broke the silence, and the attacker's figure was forced to appear.It was an exceptionally tall man with a pale face, as if he were wearing a white mask. His heterochromatic eyes, one black and one white, were particularly eerie, and the scar on his right eye added a touch of ruthlessness. He wore robot-like earmuffs, had light stubble, a white bowler hat, and a dark polka-dot long scarf around his neck. His pure white double-breasted suit and long coat were meticulous, and he wore a ribbon symbolizing honor on his chest."Decent Observation Haki." The man praised flatly, his tone devoid of any ripples. "Although I don't know who you are... but... you are dangerous." Mark's expression was unprecedentedly grave.He realized that he must entangle this guy here; otherwise, those companions downstairs who had not yet mastered Observation Haki would likely be instantly killed."CP0." The man stated his name simply, and at the same time, his fingers were already raised, covered in pitch-black Armament Haki, like the fingertips of the Grim Reaper."CP0? An agent?" "Another lackey of the government? Your dog noses are really sensitive!" Mark reached out, and Ink Meteor instantly transformed into a streak of black light, reverting to its short stick form and flying back into his hand."After all, it concerns the lunarian race. The World Government... values it highly." Before the man in white—Guernica—could finish speaking, his figure disappeared again.The next second, his fingertips, covered in Haki and capable of piercing steel, had already appeared beside Mark's temple!At the critical moment, Mark's body instantly softened and shrank, turning into a mini Slime Form, and with a "patter," it fell onto the roof, narrowly avoiding this fatal blow."Akasia: Rainstorm!" The Mark in mini Slime Forminstantly extended dozens of tentacles, each tip covered in hard Armament Haki, like an enraged black hedgehog, stabbing madly in all directions indiscriminately!"Tekkai." "Clang, clang, clang, clang—!" The dense, raindrop-like stabs landed on Guernica but were all blocked by the powerful Armament Haki covering his entire body, emitting a continuous sound of metal clashing.Although the attack didn't break his defense, it successfully forced the opponent back. Markretracted his tentacles, returned to human form, and commented, "Hard as an iron turtle!""It seems you have a fondness for animals." Guernica's voice remained steady. "But I still hope you can call me by my name.""Name? I thought you agents only had a number or a collar?" Mark said with sarcasm. "My name is—Guernica." He declared, and cold, tangible killing intent began to radiate from his body, blowing Mark's long hair up."My name is not a secret; it's just that most people who have heard it... are dead. The remaining weaklings are not worthy of knowing it either.""Guerni-what-ca? That sounds terrible!" Mark did not show weakness, and an equally vast fighting spirit and killing intent rose up, standing on equal footing with his opponent.He swung Ink Meteor behind him to build up power, his eyes sharp as an eagle's. "How about your daddy here gives you one? Pug! That's it!"Before his words had faded, Mark had already acted! He leaped up, dodging the Shigan that Guernicapointed again, while holding the stick with both hands, and smashed it down fiercely towards Guernica's head with the momentum to split mountains and crack rocks!"Dog-Beating Staff Technique, First Form—" "Striking the Dog's Head!"While the top-tier duel unfolded on the roof, another battle with a completely different style was "heating up" on the bottom floor of the Tower of Justice.Kaku utilized the high-speed movement of "Soru," moving around Franky like an agile, fat balloon. Franky's head was almost spinning, so he simply gave up on tracking with his eyes."Played too hard earlier, need to replenish Cola energy!" Franky looked at Otonashi, who had finally stopped in the corner, hanging upside down like a black owl, and said, "By the way, how do you manage to be so fat and yet so agile?""I'm not fat, I'm just not obviously thin, Chapapa!" "Also, you saying that makes me a bit angry, Chapapa!""Oh~ fat balloon? Angry?" Franky put his hands on the sides of his face, striking his signature pose. "Blow yourself up and show me! Franky Triangle Folding Knife!"He pushed hard, and the hair on the side of his ears shot out, rapidly rotating like a dart, heading straight for Otonashi with a whistling sound!Who would have thought that even Franky's hair was a weapon, and the most ridiculous part was that it could rapidly regenerate!However, although the attack was fast, Otonashi's "Soru" was faster! He disappeared from the spot instantly and appeared behind Franky."How could that kind of thing hit me, Chapapa!" Otonashi delivered a heavy punch to Franky's back."Clang!" Franky seemed to have eyes in the back of his head and immediately turned to block with his mechanical arm."I was waiting for you!" Franky's other arm lunged out, hooked onto Otonashi's large, zipper-mouthed face, and threw him with force!The massive Otonashi was smashed hard against a wall several meters away like a sandbag, kicking up a large amount of dust."Left hand weapon!" Franky took the opportunity to open the back of his left hand, revealing four hidden gun barrels. "Bang, bang, bang, bang—!" Special bullets poured into the smoke like a rainstorm, triggering a series of explosions!The attack ended, and Franky's exaggerated hairstyle instantly "collapsed." "Tsk, Cola energy is depleted! Need to hurry and replenish!" After saying that, Franky turned and wanted to run."Stop!" Otonashi had actually taken all the explosion damage head-on with "Tekkai," flashed in front of Franky again, and spread his arms to block him. "Although I don't know what you are going to do, stopping you is the right thing to do, Chapapa!""Did you dodge everything after all? You coward who only knows how to dodge!" Franky hated unmanly behavior most of all."What did you say? Who is a coward, Chapapa!" Otonashi's eyes instantly sharpened."Didn't you run away? Haha!" "Idiot, who ran away! You are too arrogant! You must taste my killing fist! Beast Fist!"Otonashi was successfully provoked, clenched his fist, and smashed a heavy straight punch into Franky's face.Franky staggered a few steps before steadying himself, wiped the corner of his mouth with his mechanical hand, and then tore off the mechanical shell outside his right fist, revealing a special alloy fist inside that shimmered with a golden luster."Your wimpy fist is only fit to scratch an itch for me!" Franky placed his golden metal fist behind him to build up power, then suddenly turned sharply, bringing a whistling sound that tore through the air, and smashed it fiercely towards Otonashi! "Strong Hammer!""Tekkai!" Otonashi tried to resist, but the power of Franky's heavy punch was beyond imagination! His head was knocked back, and blood seeped from his zipper-like mouth, dripping onto the ground."Your fist is a cowardly fist!" Otonashi backhanded Franky with a punch, hitting him hard enough that Franky's hair stood up for a moment.Franky shook his head to steady himself, revealed his shiny metal teeth, and smiled contemptuously: "Your fist is a sissy fist!"Otonashi: "Then yours is a trash fist!" Franky: "Then yours is a scrap fist!" Otonashi: "Then yours is a super crappy pair of underwear!""Underwear?" Franky's face instantly turned gloomy. "My underwear is not a fist!" Saying this, his fists swung at Otonashi like a rainstorm.Otonashi took a dozen solid punches, woke up from his daze, and began to engage in a fierce exchange of blows with Franky."You are underwear!" Franky: "Then you are a fat bra!" "Shut up! Sock!" Franky: "Interesting!" Otonashi: "Come on! Chapapapa!"Amidst the insults, the two's exchange of blows never stopped. In the back-and-forth, both had bruises on their faces, and the surrounding walls suffered even more, either covered in fist marks or smashed into large holes.This fierce battle between the "pervert" and the "balloon" was still continuing.
Chapter 175: I Want ColaAfter an intense chase and fight, Franky, relying on the brute strength of his mechanical body, pushed Kaku through several walls, finally pinning him firmly to the ground and temporarily gaining the upper hand.However, Franky knew full well that his cola energy was completely depleted, and he was currently relying solely on the instincts of his mechanical body to hold on."Damn... I'm out of energy, Super. I need to figure something out..."Just as Franky was anxiously thinking of a way to break the deadlock, he looked around and realized that he had accidentally stumbled into a—supply room!And what made his eyes light up even more was a huge refrigerator standing quietly against the wall, like a beacon of hope!"Snap!"Just as Franky saw hope, another wall next to the refrigerator shattered with a boom!A "monster" covered in soot, as if it had just crawled out of a coal pile, smashed through the broken bricks and stumbled out, followed closely by a pair of reindeer antlers."A reindeer?" Franky was stunned."Franky? Are you fighting already?"Chopper, in his reindeer form, looked at the scene before him and asked.This was the first time Franky had seen Chopper in this form."Oh... oh... yeah!"Franky replied subconsciously, then suddenly snapped to his senses.He pointed at Chopper in shock, even his drooping blue pompadour instantly standing on end. "A... a reindeer is talking?""Idiot! It's me!" Chopper switched to his human-beast form in resignation."Huh! Isn't this our Super ship's doctor, Chopper?"Franky suddenly realized, then excitedly struck a pose. "I didn't expect you to be a 'pervert' hiding your true colors too!""You jerk! Even if you call me a Super doctor, I won't be happy!"Chopper denied it with his mouth, but his body was honestly twisting, and his face turned bright red.But he immediately snapped back and yelled at Franky, "This is a transformation! You're the pervert! Your whole family is full of perverts!""You're pretty good at giving compliments!"Franky actually looked pleased, one hand continuing to suppress the struggling Otonashi, while the other rubbed the back of his head, looking very satisfied."Who was complimenting you!"Chopper's retort hadn't even finished before the "coal ball" Wedge on the ground stubbornly climbed back up."Monster! You have no need to exist in this world! Yo-yo-yee!"Despite his disheveled appearance, Wedge didn't forget to strike his signature starting pose, though covered in soot, he had absolutely no intimidation factor."That's the pot calling the kettle black—you don't even realize it!"Chopper looked at this guy who looked more like a monster than himself, a drop of cold sweat sliding down his forehead. "You're the one who looks most like a monster here, okay!""Go to hell!"Ignoring everything, Wedge charged headlong toward Chopper!"Ah!" Chopper screamed, and in his panic, he yanked open the refrigerator door next to him to use as a shield.With a "bang," Wedge slammed his head into the inner wall of the refrigerator. Chopper quickly closed the door, "click," and even twisted the lock on the door."Phew... finally locked that soot demon inside." Chopper let out a long breath and wiped the cold sweat from his forehead."Chababa... that was Wedge... right?"Even Otonashi, who was pinned to the ground, muttered uncertainly."Hey! Chopper! I still need to get something from the fridge!"Franky saw the fridge door locked and jumped off Otonashi in a hurry."Chopper! Quick! Get me three bottles of cola! As long as I have cola, I can become Super strong!""How could any idiot get stronger just by drinking cola?" Chopper had an expression that said, "Who are you trying to fool?""Mind your own business! That's what I rely on!" Franky shouted urgently."How long are you two going to keep up this comedy act?"The ignored Otonashi instantly used "Soru" to move behind Franky, his voice filled with anger. "Life Return: Owl Rain!"His figure created multiple afterimages due to the high-speed movement, as if a dozen Otonashis were punching Franky from all directions!Countless punches fell like a rainstorm, and Frankycould only crouch down, tightly protecting his head with his mechanical arms, falling into a passive defensive position.After a storm of attacks, Otonashi retreated slightly, panting.Franky seized the opportunity to do a back roll, stood up, and raised his left hand, aiming his palm at Otonashi— "Beans Left!""Tekkai!" Otonashi immediately defended.However, the expected bullets did not fire; only a few round metal beans fell "clatter-clatter" from Franky's palm to the ground."What is this?" Otonashi felt insulted, his anger flaring even higher.He used "Soru" again, instantly closing in on Franky, pinning him back to the ground, and unleashing another barrage of punches and kicks."Oh no! I'll just do what Franky said!"Seeing this, Chopper didn't hesitate anymore; he immediately unlocked the fridge and yanked the door open."Door... open... yo-yo..." Wedge inside hadn't even finished speaking—"Bang!" The door was quickly slammed shut by Chopper again."Franky! Catch!"Chopper was quick-eyed and nimble-handed, grabbing three bottles of orange-colored drink from the fridge and tossing them with force toward Franky."Thanks! Super!"Franky used a low sweep kick to force Otonashiback, then leapt up, accurately catching the three bottles in mid-air, and with lightning speed, replaced the cola bottles in his abdomen!Two seconds later, strange pink gas began to emit from Franky's entire body. He raised his fists high above his head, struck a strange pose, and shouted, "Fresh!""Oh! So cool!" Chopper's eyes immediately turned into stars, full of anticipation."What is this thing?" Otonashi felt it was inexplicable, devoid of any aura."Taste my Fresh Vegetable Punch!"Franky, sporting a hairstyle that had suddenly turned into a pineapple shape, threw a soft, limp punch at Otonashi's stomach."Life Return!"Otonashi didn't even look at this powerless attack, directly slamming a heavy straight punch into Franky's cheek."Bang!" Franky was sent flying, crashing heavily onto the kitchen workbench, pots and pans falling everywhere."This damn thing isn't cola, it's vegetable juice!"The first thing Franky did when he climbed up was to grab the unfinished bottle of vegetable juice and throw it angrily at Chopper."Splat!" The bottle exploded on the fridge door, and the thick orange liquid splashed all over Chopper's face."What are you doing? Weren't you thirsty? Vegetable juice is so healthy!" Chopper wiped his face and roared."Screw health first! I wanted cola! Cola! Do you understand?""I know, I know!" Chopper also lost his temper and pulled the fridge door open again."Yo-yo-yee... door...""How about this!" Chopper quickly threw out three green bottles.The situation was critical; Franky leapt again, completing the drink replacement in mid-air."Ah... so comfortable..."This time, Franky's hair turned into the shape of a rake, and his whole body looked as if he had no bones, standing on the tip of one foot, his arms softly stretched to the right.He even carried a hoe from somewhere, lazily sitting on the dining table nearby, looking just like an old farmer resting after finishing farm work."Oh my... you should rest well after finishing work, don't be so hot-headed, fighting and such is the worst..."He said in a lazy tone, and casually picked up someone's teacup from the table, "As long as you drink a cup of tea, your strength will..."Before he could finish, Franky suddenly exploded into action, throwing the teacup violently at Chopper!"Strength my ass! Who wants to drink tea! I want cola! You idiot ship's doctor!""Ah!" Chopper dodged agilely, and the teacup shattered on the fridge."...That guy..."Chopper watched the weird changes in Frankycaused by the different drinks, his expression shifting from speechlessness to excitement, as if he had discovered a new world. "Seems... a bit interesting!""Hey! What's with that expression?"Franky instantly saw through Chopper's thoughts and pointed at him, roaring, "You're not thinking of seeing what kind of ghost I turn into if I drink other drinks, are you?!""There won't be a next time! I only want cola! Do you understand? Cola!" Franky emphasized."Eh? Isn't it decided by your mood?" Chopper was still a bit unsatisfied."I only want cola! Idiot!"This time, the bottle Chopper threw clearly had the word "COLA" written on it."Cola! This time it's definitely right! Super, I'm saved!"The fire of hope ignited in Franky's eyes, and he leapt with all his might."Rankyaku!"How could Otonashi let him have his way? A sharp vacuum slash broke through the air, accurately hitting Franky in mid-air!"Boom!" Franky was blown away, kicking up a cloud of dust.However, when the dust slowly cleared, Franky was seen lying on the ground, but with a satisfied smile on his face, his hands tightly clutching his abdomen.From within his steel body came waves of deep, powerful energy roaring, as if a super engine had been reignited!A red light flashed in his eyes— "Super!!!"This powerful shout, as if carrying a shockwave, spread throughout the entire Tower of Justice!Franky stood up abruptly, sporting that iconic, majestic pompadour, and walked step by step, firmly toward Otonashi. Each step seemed to beat in rhythm with a heartbeat, full of power."What the hell! He doesn't look any different after drinking cola!" Otonashi crossed his arms and mocked disdainfully."I advise you, you'd better strike a defensive pose!" Franky clenched his fist, which shone with a metallic luster, his knuckles making a "click-click" sound."Heh, are you going to use those wimpy fists of yours again?" Otonashi lowered his head and laughed contemptuously.Responding to him was a punch from Franky, devoid of any frills, but concentrated with all his power!"Strong Hammer!""Pow!!!"This punch slammed solidly into Otonashi's round belly!The massive impact caused his abdomen to instantly cave in, and the suit behind him was torn apart by the violent force with a "rip," leaving a hole the size of a washbasin!The expression on Otonashi's face instantly twisted from extreme disdain to extreme pain, his eyeballs bloodshot and rolling back, not even able to let out a scream.He was hit as if by a battering ram, turning into a blurry shadow, crashing through three stone walls behind him, each a meter thick, disappearing into the ruins and dust, whereabouts unknown."Ah! So... so cool!" Chopper watched, dumbfounded, his chin almost hitting the floor, his whole body once again surrounded by stars of admiration."Sorry," Franky maintained his punching pose and said coolly, "Indeed, until just now, my fists might have been wimpy. But now, you're just a sissy!""Right, Franky, hurry and get the key from him! He didn't fall straight down the waterfall, did he?" Chopper snapped out of his shock and reminded him anxiously."It's not over yet! Chababa!"A stubborn roar came from the distance.Otonashi, who had fallen at the end of the corridor and bent the railing, was seen supporting himself again with trembling arms.He coughed up a mouthful of blood, wiped the blood from the corner of his mouth fiercely with his sleeve, and stood up shakily."I... am really angry! Chababa!""This guy... is really super resilient!" Even Choppercouldn't help but exclaim in admiration."Chopper, just watch from the side!"Franky pulled down his small sunglasses, his eyes becoming sharp. He flipped his floral shirt back, revealing his solid mechanical shoulders."Franky Cannon!"Accompanied by his roar, his shoulder parts clicked, and a half-meter-high cannon rose, its pitch-black muzzle aimed at the distant Otonashi."Wow!" Chopper was conquered by this cool equipment again, his eyes shining."Ah... ouch ouch ouch... every time I use this move, my shoulder joint dislocates..." Franky, however, suddenly started complaining, grimacing."Eh?... Then don't use it!" Chopper instantly switched from admiration mode to retort mode."Idiot! To someone who has mastered the Six Powers, any cannon fire is impossible to hit!"Otonashi endured the pain and used "Soru" again to move quickly, attacking Franky."No matter where you run, you can't escape my cannon!"Franky locked the cannon muzzle firmly on Otonashiand confidently added, "Because this move uses—homing missiles!""Homing missiles?"In Chopper's mind, cool images of missiles automatically tracking enemies, never giving up, immediately appeared. "Wow!" His admiration for Franky reached a new height."Boom! Boom!" Two cannon shots rang out, two projectiles whistling out. Otonashi immediately used his techniques to dodge.However, the scene of the projectiles turning to track him did not occur; they just flew straight past, exploding into two large craters on the ground in the distance."Eh—?" Chopper's expression collapsed instantly, his disappointment evident."Stop! Don't run!"Franky was seen clamping his arms, taking long strides, and chasing in the direction Otonashi had fled himself!"Ah—! So it was you doing the tracking yourself!" Chopper was so angry that smoke was coming out of his head, his eyes almost spitting fire."Stop!" Franky chased to the outside corridor, not only missing with every shot, but even losing sight of Otonashi."Come out!" Franky looked around and shouted loudly."It's useless no matter how you look, Chababa!"Otonashi's voice came from somewhere, carrying a hint of smugness. "I am a master of the Six Powers! My attacks are like an owl, hidden in the shadows; you won't be able to find me before I deliver the fatal blow..."Before he finished speaking, he was punched flying by Chopper, who had quietly snuck up behind him!"He's here!" Chopper shouted to report his position.It turned out that Otonashi had used the smoke from the cannon explosions as cover, playing a game of position swapping with Franky. But this seemed to be part of his plan."You've fallen for it! Chababa!"Otonashi quickly climbed up; he didn't even pay attention to Chopper who had hit him. His owl-like hunting instinct kept him locked onto Franky as the primary target.He curled his body up violently and began to spin at high speed! "Soru!" "Tekkai: Tama!"He transformed into a heavy, spinning cannonball, rushing toward Franky with terrifying momentum!Franky braced his stance, spreading his hands to try and resist, but was knocked off his feet by the powerful impact, flying backward!"Danger!" Chopper exclaimed."Damn! Behind is... the sea?" Franky also realized something was wrong."Splash—!"The two tangled together and both fell into the cold seawater at the edge of the Tower of Justice! The surging currents immediately swept them up, rushing toward the edge of the roaring waterfall in the distance! If not rescued in time, the consequences would be unimaginable!Chopper rushed to the railing and shouted anxiously at the sea: "Franky! Come on!"He was a Devil Fruit user and could only worry helplessly; jumping into the sea to save someone was tantamount to suicide."Pffft!"After a while, Franky's head finally emerged from the sea, and he struggled hard."I won't die in a place like this! Super!!!""Ah! We're almost at the edge of the waterfall! No...!" Chopper's heart was in his throat."We're going to fall...! I'll swim! I'll swim! FrankyButterfly Stroke!!!"Amazingly, Franky, relying on his unique, full-power "swimming style," forced his way against the current, breaking free from the deadly whirlpool at the edge of the waterfall, and slowly moved closer to the shore!"I won't let you succeed! Chababa!"Otonashi, already in the air, used "Moonwalk" to hover steadily above Franky, blocking his last path to survival.