Chapter 194: Pluton Is My Dad?Garp strode up to the tightly shut door, his iconic dog-head hat pulled down low, hiding most of his face in shadow."You two wait outside," he ordered Koby and Helmeppo without turning his head."Yes! Vice Admiral Garp!" The two immediately straightened their backs and gave a standard military salute.Unexpectedly, Garp didn't head for the door; instead, he stepped aside to the brick wall next to it.He flexed his right fist, which was strong enough to shatter mountains, and a smirk curled at the corner of his mouth."BOOM!!!" The next second, the Straw Hat Piratesinside heard a deafening roar. The outer wall's bricks burst, dust billowed, and debris sprayed in like raindrops!"What's going on? What happened?!" Frankyimmediately spread his steel arms, shielding Kokoroand Chimney behind him.Before the dust could settle, a rough, booming voice cut through the air: "Are the people inside the Straw Hat Pirates?"This voice struck Mark's mind like a bolt of lightning—it was that voice, the one so familiar it was etched into his DNA!The fear of being dominated by the "Fist of Love" back in Windmill Village instantly awakened."I... I suddenly remembered my mom told me to come home for dinner!" Mark's face went pale, his speech stuttered, and he started pushing off the ground, ready to bolt."Heh heh!" An ambiguous chuckle drifted over.Almost the exact moment Mark thought about running, Garp's towering figure appeared in front of him like a ghost, moving at a speed that defied visual tracking, completely blocking his path."What?!" Sanji's pupils constricted. His Observation Haki had been locked onto the man, yet he hadn't been able to catch how Garp moved at all!"This speed... you've got to be kidding, right?""Oh no! It's the Marine!" As the smoke cleared in Mark's area, Chopper saw the "Justice" coat! He was terrified."Why now..." Robin broke into a cold sweat, her expression grave.Garp, however, ignored the tension in the room. He kept his head down, hidden beneath the shadow of his dog-head hat. His gaze seemed fixed on Mark, and his wide grin sent chills down everyone's spine."Back then, I thought you were a sensible kid, so I specially instructed you to look after Luffy..."Garp's voice held a hint of nostalgia, but then his tone shifted sharply, becoming one of bitter disappointment. "I didn't expect to raise an ingrate! Not only did you fail to lead him onto the righteous path of the Marine, but you even became a lawless pirate right along with him!"He kneaded his fist, which was the size of a sand pot, his knuckles making a chilling "crack" sound. "You unfilial brat, don't you think you owe me an explanation?""Th-that... Old Man! Don't get excited! It's a misunderstanding! A total misunderstanding!" Markwas drenched in cold sweat, forcing a smile while carefully inching backward.At this moment, the fierce courage he displayed when facing an Admiral was nowhere to be found; he looked just like a quail being eyed by a tiger.This scene left the entire Straw Hat Crewdumbfounded. Nami rubbed her eyes, Sanji's mouth hung open, and even Robin frowned—when had they ever seen Mark act this cowardly?"This old guy... who exactly is he? Even Mark is..." Sanji's muscles tensed, treating him like a formidable enemy, his eyes locked on Garp's every move."Thump!" Mark's back hit a chair. He turned around instinctively and saw Luffy fast asleep on it, bubbles of snot blowing from his nose.In this desperate situation, Mark had a moment of inspiration and instantly found a lifeline! "It's him! It's Luffy!"Mark pointed dramatically at the sleeping Luffy, bowing even lower, his face filled with "sincere" helplessness. "It was all Luffy who forced me, Old Man! I said I wanted to be a Marine, but he wouldn't let me! He insisted on dragging me to be a pirate! Look at this... this misunderstanding has really blown up, hasn't it? Heh heh..."He gave a dry laugh, perfectly diverting all the hostility toward his Captain, who was completely oblivious.Mark's inner thoughts: Sorry, Luffy! Better you than me; getting beaten up alone is better than both of us getting hit! I swear, I'll get you all the water-water meat you can eat later!Sure enough, after his "accusation," Garp's attention was successfully diverted. His face darkened, and his gaze shifted to his grandson, who was sleeping like the dead, his anger visibly skyrocketing."Still the same as ever... hopeless!" Garp clenched his fist even tighter."Hey! What are you trying to do to our Captain?!" Sanji and the others immediately stepped forward into fighting stances; they would never sit by and watch a Marine hurt Luffy, even if this Marineseemed absurdly strong."Ahem!" Mark quickly interrupted his crewmates with a violent cough, while frantically winking and gesturing at them, his mouth silently forming the exaggerated words: "DON'T! ATTACK!""Wake... UP!!!" With a roar, Garp's figure instantly vanished from in front of Mark.The next moment, he appeared directly above Luffyas if teleporting. His iron fist, brimming with terrifying power and wreathed in visible rage, descended with a whistling gale, slamming hard toward Luffy's head!"Wake up, you brat!" "BANG—CRACK!" The wooden chair under Luffy shattered on impact, reduced instantly to splinters.Luffy himself was slammed straight into the floor by the immense force, a large, steaming bump rising on his head at a speed visible to the naked eye."Luffy!!!" The crew was horrified. Only Mark closed his eyes in pain, though he didn't forget to take a step back, covering his face with his hand and peeking through his fingers, muttering to himself: "I didn't see it, I didn't see it...""AHHH! It hurts! That hurts like hell!" Luffy was forcefully booted from deep sleep by the agonizing pain, rolling around in the crater in the floor while clutching his head, letting out a blood-curdling scream."It hurts? That's not right!" Sanji looked bewildered. "I clearly didn't see his fist covered in Armament Haki! Luffy is a rubber man; how could a normal physical attack..."But the prominent bump on Luffy's head and his expression of agony were clearly not faked.Garp slowly removed his dog-head hat, revealing a face full of righteousness yet tinged with a bit of roguishness. He picked at his ear."Fists full of 'Love' cannot be blocked, kid." He explained casually toward Sanji, then locked his gaze back onto his grandson rolling on the floor, his voice booming like a bell: "You really... caused quite a ruckus, didn't you! Luffy!""Gr... Gr... Grandpa!!" Luffy clutched the bump on his head, looked up, and recognized the face. He was so terrified he couldn't even speak properly, his eyes nearly popping out of his sockets."EH—!!!" "Grandpa??" At that moment, except for Mark who had been mentally prepared, the rest of the Straw Hat Pirates, along with Kokoro and the others whom Franky was shielding, were collectively petrified, as if hit by a freezing spell.The Marine soldiers outside the hole in the wall heard this shocking news and instantly exploded into an uproar: "Hey!! Vice Admiral Garp actually has a grandson?" "First time I've heard of it!" "And they're two big-name pirates with bounties over 100 million...!" "Shh! Keep it down! Don't make the Vice Admiral angry!"Garp turned a deaf ear to the commotion. He crossed his arms, looking down at Luffy who was still sitting on the floor, his voice low and imposing: "Luffy! Is there something you have to apologize to me for?""Garp? This is Vice Admiral Garp? The legendary hero?" Nami heard the soldiers' discussion outside, her shock no less than if she had witnessed the Gods of Water arriving in person.She turned to Mark, her voice trembling with disbelief: "Mark, is Luffy... is he really your grandfather?" (At the time in Loguetown, Nami had just gone shopping and wasn't at the tavern, so she didn't know the details.)"Yeah, so definitely don't attack!" Luffy said, still clutching his head while holding out a hand to block his crew."Garp, I have heard of that name." Franky scratched his metal head, his tone puzzled. "But he's just a Vice Admiral, is there any need to be this shocked?""You idiot pervert!" Sanji whipped his head around to roar at Franky. "You really dare to say that! 'Just a Vice Admiral'?"The knowledgeable Robin stepped in to enlighten everyone, her voice carrying a rare gravity: "This old gentleman is not to be trifled with. Back in the day, he chased the Pirate King Gol D. Roger all over the world. Even the current Admiral Aokiji Kuzan is just a disciple he trained.""Is Grandpa really that great?" Luffy rubbed the bump on his head with one hand while picking his nose with the other, unimpressed."Idiot! I am even greater than you can imagine!" Garproared at Luffy again, then began counting off past events, getting angrier as he spoke: "I threw you into a thousand-meter abyss, tossed you into a wolf's den! And I tied you to balloons and let you fly away! All of this was to temper you, to have you inherit my mantle and become a great Marine!"His knuckles cracked again, and he looked at Mark! "Mark! You get over here and stand at attention too!""Hehe! Grandpa, please calm down, have some water to soothe your throat!" Mark reacted lightning-fast, immediately pulling senbei and milk tea from his Rainbow Space, offering them respectfully with both hands, his face full of sycophantic smiles."Hmph! Don't try that on me!" Garp said, but his hands were honest as he took the snacks and drink, stuffing them into his mouth in the blink of an eye."Oh my, anyone would be infuriated to have a grandson like Luffy! Just let him go like a fart!" Markpointed at Luffy, who was still sitting on the floor, with a look of disdain, trying hard to stand on the same side as Garp—that way, when the beating started, maybe he'd get hit a couple of times less."At least you get it..." Garp chewed on the senbei, but halfway through, he suddenly felt something was off. Remembering the scene where he was reprimanded by the Gorosei, anger surged back into his heart: "You're no good bird either! You actually killed CP0's Guernica! Do you have any idea what kind of mess you've caused?"He raised his voice: "One moment of inattention, and you two create such a huge disaster for me! I thought Ace was enough of a headache, but I never expected to have raised two big pirates like you! You really have made me proud! I wanted all of you to become Marines!""No way! Haven't I always said I wanted to be a pirate?" Luffy jumped up from the floor, sticking his neck out to stand his ground against Garp."I think you've just been poisoned by that bastard brat, Red Hair!" Garp retorted without hesitation."Shanks is my savior, I won't let you speak ill of him!" Luffy retorted, gritting his teeth."You dare talk to your grandpa like that! I think your skin is itching for a beating!" Garp waved his large hand, grabbing both Luffy and Mark by their collars with speed invisible to the naked eye, lifting them up like a pair of chicks."Ah! I'm sorry!" Luffy struggled in mid-air, apologizing instinctively."Hey! What does this have to do with me? Wouldn't it be better if I massaged your back instead?" Marktried to defend himself with a look of grievance."If I don't beat you up, I won't feel satisfied! If I'm not satisfied, countless pirates will suffer! Aren't you trying to be a pirate? Then make some contribution to the pirate world!"As he spoke, Garp raised his other free fist backward, winding up for a strike."Ah! This is bad! The Captain and Vice Captain have both been caught by the Marine!" Chopper shouted in panic."This is no good, the two of them aren't even trying to resist. What do we do now!" Sanji said anxiously."Luffy! Mark!" The other crew members exclaimed in unison.Mark quickly raised his arms, covering them with Armament Haki for defense.However, the anticipated fist did not fall—instead, it was replaced by a series of loud snores.Luffy, who was being held, and Garp, who was standing, had actually both fallen asleep with their heads tilted back, each blowing a translucent snot bubble from their nostrils.Only Mark awkwardly rubbed his temple."Huh—?" The crew members were collectively dumbfounded once again."What on earth is going on?" Franky was completely bewildered."They really are family..." Sanji sighed while covering his forehead, completely speechless.Three seconds later—"Pop!" Garp's snot bubble was the first to burst.He blinked his sleepy eyes, as if he had just regained his senses: "Ah! My bad, my bad, I actually fell asleep."But when he saw that he was still holding his two grandsons, his expression changed abruptly: "Sleeping? Is this the attitude you have while receiving an education of love?"Before he had even finished speaking, that long-prepared fist rained down like a storm!"Ah! That hurts!""I wasn't sleeping, I wasn't sleeping!!!"Pig-like screams immediately rang out throughout the lounge—some from Luffy, and some from Mark."Let them be..." The crew members retreated to the corner in tacit agreement, lowering their heads and covering their foreheads, letting out a helpless sigh in unison.A moment later, Mark and Luffy, with bumps all over their heads, faces bruised and swollen, stood obediently side by side in front of Garp, looking just like two schoolboys who had made a mistake.Garp glanced sideways at Luffy, and thinking of how Red Hair had led his grandson astray, he was so angry that white smoke puffed from his nostrils: "That bastard kid, Shanks! The next time I run into him, I will definitely make him give me an explanation!""Huh! Shanks?" Upon hearing that name, Luffyinstantly cast his pain aside, his eyes sparkling, "Are Shanks and his crew doing well? Do you know where they are?""Hmph! They're doing just fine!" Garp huffed irritably, "That guy is currently in the second half of the Grand Line, along with those monsters Whitebeard, Charlotte Linlin, and Kaido, and is known to the world as one of the 'Four Emperors'! Looking down upon the entire ocean like an emperor!"He crossed his arms and explained in a deep voice: "Aside from the Seven Warlords of the Sea, only our Marineford can stand against them! These three forces maintain a delicate balance in the world, and any drastic change in either side could lead to the collapse of the world's order!""Hmm? Even though I don't really understand..." Luffy scratched his cheek, then revealed a brilliant smile, carefully taking the Straw Hat from his back and holding it in his arms, "But it's good to know they're okay! I really miss them..."He was immersed in the precious memories of meeting Red Hair, his eyes softening."Is Luffy related to that 'Red Hair' as well?" Robinasked Nami softly beside her."That Straw Hat... it seems like it was given to him by that person." Nami looked at the familiar Straw Hat in Luffy's hands, her heart surging with waves of emotion, "I always knew Luffy cherished this hat, but I never expected its former owner to be one of the 'Four Emperors' standing at the pinnacle of the sea..."She couldn't help but recall the scene in Cocoyasi Village, where Luffy placed this hat on her head and swore to help her defeat Arlong."Huh? Is he really that impressive?" Usopp, who had just returned from the Giant Race, was dumbfounded as he peeked from the window.He had arrived just in time to see Luffy and Markbeing beaten until they had bumps all over their heads by an old Marine, and he had wisely chosen to hide outside the window with the frog Yokogangto observe secretly."Move! Everyone move!" Just then, Zoro's voice came from outside, accompanied by a commotion.He was seen carrying two little boys, one in each hand, who had large bumps on their heads and were teary-eyed, as he rushed straight in from the entrance of Dock One."Big Brother Zoro, it's here!" The two little boys pointed aggrievedly at the lounge door."Not good, have the Marines already surrounded this place?" Zoro pushed the two children behind him, and without even seeing the situation inside the room, he turned around reflexively, his three swords instantly unsheathed, and he charged toward the nearest Marine with killing intent!Inside the lounge, one could only hear a dense sound of metal clashing, the sharp whistle of blades cutting through the air, and the screams and exclamations of Marines in pain."What's going on outside?" Garp frowned and looked toward the source of the commotion.His adjutant Bogart reported calmly: "It is the combatant of the Straw Hat, 'Bloodthirsty Swordsman' Roronoa Zoro.""Oh? Luffy's crewmate?" Garp was not angry at all; instead, he nodded with appreciation, "He's got good spirit."He then ordered the two people waiting at the door: "Koby, Helmeppo, you two go test his skills.""Yes! Vice Admiral Garp!""Soru!" The two figures instantly vanished from where they stood.However, the next second—"Bang! Bang!" Two figures flew backward at an even faster speed, crashing heavily onto the floor of the lounge.There was a shallow sword mark on each of their chests; clearly, the opponent had held back."So strong..." Koby clutched his chest, still shaken."Completely... no match for him..." Helmeppo."Luffy!" Luffy quickly caught the two who had fallen, and shouted toward the door, "Don't attack, Zoro!""Hmm?" Zoro unleashed a "Pound Phoenix" to force back the surrounding Marines, and walked in, holding his sword with a confused expression.When he saw Koby on the ground, his eyebrows raised: "What's the situation?""Long time no see, Mr. Luffy, Mr. Mark, Zoro." Kobybrushed the dust off his body, stood up, and saluted somewhat sheepishly, "Do you still remember me?""Hehe, I saw you at Enies Lobby, and I thought you looked familiar back then!" Luffy flashed his iconic smile, "I didn't expect to run into you here!""That was an observation mission as a new Marinerecruit..." Koby scratched the back of his head, his cheeks slightly red, "I didn't expect... to witness the miracle you created with my own eyes. Sorry about that, I was on the opposite side back then.""Don't worry about that! Let's have a banquet!" Luffywaved his hand dismissively.Zoro sheathed his sword and looked at Koby, whose demeanor had changed completely, and asked: "How did you end up in the Grand Line?""Well... a lot of things happened." Koby stood straight, his eyes firm, "Now, I am training under Vice Admiral Garp!""You've changed so much..." Mark leaned in to examine him closely and couldn't help but quip, "Are you sure you didn't go to a doctor for plastic surgery? Your aura is completely different.""Hahaha! No way!" Koby was a bit embarrassed by what was said.Watching them chatting happily, Helmeppo, who had been completely left aside, couldn't sit still. He spread his hands exaggeratedly: "Hey! Did you guys forget about me?""Who are you?" Luffy looked blank."Don't know you." Mark was blunt."A bit weak." Zoro added the final blow."It's me! Helmeppo!"He pointed at himself excitedly, then pointed at Zoro, "Roronoa Zoro! I'm the Helmeppo who tied you to the post in Shells Town and was almost killed by you!""It's that 'Butt-Chin'." Mark "kindly" reminded him."Oh—! It's you!" Luffy and Zoro suddenly realized, then showed expressions of understanding mixed with a hint of boredom."Seems like there was such a person!""Hey... Koby..." Helmeppo immediately burst into tears and threw himself onto Koby, "It seems they still won't forgive me for my past actions...""There's no help for it, you have to accept the past." Koby smiled helplessly, then turned to Luffy and the others, his expression becoming serious, "Mr. Luffy, although we are now in opposing camps, but...""Ah! We're friends, right! Hehe!" Luffy didn't wait for him to finish, replying with a smile without a second thought, not hesitating at all.Koby was slightly stunned, then a relieved and warm smile bloomed on his face, and he nodded vigorously."Then, men!" Garp's booming voice interrupted this warm atmosphere.He strode outside and began issuing orders to the busy Marine soldiers."Yes! Vice Admiral Garp!" The soldiers answered in unison."Go fix this wall!" Garp pointed his thumb at the "entrance" he had carved out with his own hands behind him."Huh—?" The Marines immediately let out a chorus of wails and complaints."But you were the one who broke it in the first place!""This is too reckless!""You were certainly happy enough when you broke it!"Garp crossed his arms and explained righteously: "Because it's cooler to enter this way!""Please don't destroy public property for such a selfish reason!!" The Marines complained collectively, "We can fix it, but you have to come help too!""Sigh—! Fine, fine..." Garp smacked his lips reluctantly, but still honestly took the wooden hammer handed to him by his subordinate and began clumsily hammering nails to repair the hole in the wall.Sanji watched this scene, his mouth twitching, and turned to ask Luffy: "Hey, isn't your grandfather a legendary big shot? How come...""About his job... I'm not really sure either." Luffy had an expression that said "this is normal.""Ah!" Garp, who was hammering nails, seemed to suddenly remember something. He turned around, and while picking his nose, dropped a bombshell in a casual tone: "By the way, Luffy, you've already met your dad, right?""Dad?" Luffy's face was filled with innocent confusion, "Do I have a dad? What... what kind of creature is a dad?""What! That guy didn't even reveal his identity to you?" Garp looked disgusted, "He said he saw you off personally in Loguetown!""Loguetown... saw me off?" Luffy fell into deep thought, the images of leaving Loguetown flashing rapidly through his mind—Joseph and Johnny, and...An unbelievable thought struck him like lightning.Luffy's eyes instantly went round, his mouth opened wide enough to fit a fist, and he pointed at the void with a trembling finger, letting out an earth-shattering scream: "Ah——————? Could it be... my dad is Rayleigh??!!"
Chapter 195: Mark's Thick Skin!As soon as Luffy's earth-shattering guess left his lips, everyone inside and outside the room—the Straw Hat crew, Kokoro, and even Usopp and Yokogang outside the window—were struck as if by lightning, their hair standing on end!"Eh—?""Uncle Rayleigh! Isn't that legendary pirate a bit too old?!""There must be some huge misunderstanding here!"Even the Marine soldiers outside forgot their discipline, whispering to each other and analyzing this absurd possibility."Crack!"The poor little wooden hammer in Garp's hand was instantly crushed to pieces.He slowly turned his head, a "kind" smile on his face that sent shivers down the spines of Mark and Luffy."I—di—ot—!"Garp's roar shook the ceiling, causing dust to fall,"That old geezer Rayleigh is my contemporary! How could he be your dad?! Stop talking nonsense here!""I see…"Luffy pouted regretfully,"But Rayleigh is clearly very strong…""Was Luffy's dad in Loguetown at that time too?" Sanji asked, picking up the cigarette he had dropped on the floor, puzzled."I'm starting to get curious about Luffy's father too," Nami chimed in."Listen up, Luffy!"Garp, picking his nose, tossed out a second bombshell in a nonchalant tone: "Your dad's name is—Monkey D. Dragon, and he's in the Revolutionary Army.""Ehhhhhh—!!!!!!!"This name was like a depth charge dropped into a calm lake, instantly detonating an outcry ten times more intense than before!The screams of the crew inside mixed with the uproar of the Marines outside, the sound wave nearly blowing the entire roof off!"The revolutionary Dragon? That world's number one criminal?""He actually has a son?""Mr. Luffy… is actually Dragon's son?" Koby's legs went weak, and he collapsed onto the floor, his worldview suffering a devastating shock."That means… Dragon is Vice Admiral Garp's son…" Helmeppo clutched his head, his face full of breakdown. "What kind of situation is this family? The Navy Hero's son is the leader of the Revolutionary Army, and his grandson is a great pirate who openly defies the World Government?""Dragon?" Luffy tilted his head, still completely oblivious. He looked at his partners behind him, who were petrified. "Hey! Why are you all so surprised?""I-Idiot! You don't even know what the name 'Dragon' represents?" The cigarette Sanji had finally managed to pick up dropped to the floor again in shock."Your dad… is a very, very big deal!" Nami held her forehead, cold sweat streaming down.Luffy looked around and found that only Mark was still calm. "Hey, Mark!" Luffy tried to get an answer from his childhood friend.Mark rubbed his chin, gathering his thoughts: "In short,'small matters' like us attacking Enies Lobbyare just child's play compared to what your dad is doing. The Revolutionary Army's goal is to overthrow this World Government, and your dad is the supreme leader of this group."Robin took over from Mark and added, "There are many countries in the world right now, both openly and secretly, that support him. Dragon is known as the 'world's most dangerous criminal'… I really didn't expect a person like him to have a son."The whole room fell into a deathly silence, where you could hear a pin drop.A few seconds later, Garp, who was using his finger to "thump, thump" nails into the wall, suddenly stopped."Ah! About this matter," he clapped the dust off his hands and laughed nonchalantly, "It's better not to say it! Hahaha, just pretend I never said what I just said!""Ehhhhhh—!!!!!!!" Everyone petrified again, feeling as if their brain CPUs had been fried by this repeated shock.The wall was finally repaired, and Garp stood up, brushing the dust off his body."Because you two are my grandsons," he said, crossing his arms and announcing a willful decision, "so I'm giving up on arresting you on this island! Hahaha, that's right, that's exactly what I'll report to Sengoku!"Commander Bogard whispered a reminder from the side: "Vice Admiral… isn't this reason a bit too… How about we just say they were too strong and managed to escape?""I mean what I say!"Garp waved his hand, then looked sharply at Mark, "You don't need to hide that little Lunarian girl anymore either.""Eh?" Mark was startled.Garp sighed, his tone rarely carrying a hint of complexity: "Anyway, just rest easy on this island. I'm heading back.""See ya then!" Luffy waved goodbye heartlessly."Is that all?"Garp's "Fist of Love" once again accurately struck Luffy's head, sending him flying."You idiot! Don't you know how to ask me to stay at all? I'm your grandfather whom you haven't seen in a long time!" Garp was so angry he was blowing his beard and staring."Then what do you want me to do?" Luffy hugged the fresh bump on his head and shouted aggrievedly, "Every time we meet, all you do is beat me up!""Even so, I've always cherished you like my own grandson!" Garp roared righteously.Suddenly, Garp turned his head, staring at Markwith unfriendly eyes, and let out a cold snort from his nose: "Hmm?"Mark shivered, his survival instinct instantly maxed out. He was much better at reading the situation than Luffy and knew well that this old man was currently their biggest backer. Thinking back to his petty move of hiding Merry in the Rainbow Spaceearlier, he felt a wave of regret."Oh! Grandpa Garp!" Mark instantly switched to his well-behaved mode, lunged forward, and affectionately took Garp's arm, his voice so sweet it could make someone sick, "It's been so long, why are you leaving as soon as you get here! You don't know, in the days you weren't around, Luffy and I have been thinking about you in our dreams!""N-No such thing!" Luffy waved his arms from the side, desperately denying it."Idiot!" Mark and Garp cursed in unison, then tacitly threw a punch each, left and right, sending Luffyflying again."Hahaha! Good lad!" Garp was amused by Mark's combo and laughed heartily, but his smile quickly faded, and his tone became serious. "Remember, don't cause any more trouble for me! Right now, those old guys are still hesitant because of me. But…" His gaze was like a torch as he swept over Luffy and Mark: "Getting stronger is your only way out!""Hehe, got it!" Mark immediately replied, his face full of admiration, "If we had even half of your strength, Grandpa, we could have already walked sideways across this sea!""Hahaha! That's right! That's right!" Garp was soothed all over by this flattery, his face showing a smug smile like he had won a battle."Alright! Learn Haoshoku coating early, don't waste your talent!" Garp said, turning and making a move to leave."Wait a second!" Mark hurriedly called out. He took out three huge solid iron balls, each three meters in diameter and gleaming with a cold metallic luster, from the Rainbow Space with a few "clangs," and lined them up neatly in front of Garp."What's this?" Garp looked at these three behemoths with disgust. "You're giving me this as a farewell gift? What use do I have for these iron lumps?" But then he thought about it—it was, after all, a gesture of filial piety from his grandson. He could have a craftsman process them later, and they would probably be quite handy for throwing at Luffyfrom a distance… So he waved his hand, signaling his men to take them away."No! Grandpa! You misunderstood!" Mark twirled his long hair in embarrassment and hurriedly explained, "I wanted to ask you… to help me smash them!" This was a last resort. "tyrant iron" consumed a huge amount of resources, and steel smashed by Garp's top-tier Armament Haki would undergo a subtle change in its material properties, making the refined "tyrant iron" of a quality far beyond the ordinary. Now, the team's logistics—Franky's modifications, the construction of the new ship, Usopp's special ammunition, and even Zoro's future swords—all required this top-tier material. As the Vice Captainin charge of logistics, he had to be meticulous."What?" Garp's brows knotted together. "Not only is there no 'gift,' but you want me to work as free labor for you?" He angrily broke free from Mark's hand and was about to leave again."Don't! Grandpa—!" Mark lunged, lieon the ground without any image, hugging Garp's thigh tightly, wailing with tears: "Please just help your poor, weak, and helpless grandson! Wuwuwu…""Is… is this still the Mark we know?" Usopp watched from outside the window, his jaw almost hitting the floor."As expected of the Vice Captain…" Sanji sighed, holding his forehead, shaking his head in self-deprecation, "I bow down to this 'magnanimity' of being able to bend and stretch."As for Mark, he felt no ripples in his heart: "Making money (getting materials) isn't shameful!"Ultimately, after Mark threw away his dignity to pester, whine, and roll around, plus offering a set of top-quality Island Cloud sofas—a specialty of Sky Island—two large bags of senbei, and various dazzling snacks as "filial piety," Garp finally "reluctantly" agreed.He loosened his wrists, and that terrifying fist, imbued with advanced Ryuo techniques, easily smashed the three giant iron balls into uniform, tiny fragments as if they were tofu!Mark happily collected all the iron fragments, not only gaining a massive amount of energy points but also refining enough top-tier "tyrant iron" material to last for a long time in the future.Before the Marine fleet was about to set sail, Zoro, Koby, Mark, and Luffy—old friends who had known each other since the East Blue—finally had a chance to gather for a brief conversation.They talked about their respective experiences, and Koby and Helmeppo also learned about the dangers of the second half of the Grand Line, the "New World."Koby gathered his courage and, in front of everyone, stated his dream with a mix of shame and unwavering determination: "I… I want to become an Admiral!"To his surprise, Luffy and the others did not laugh at him."Want to fight me? Koby!" Luffy grinned and patted his shoulder hard, "Then you at least need to become an Admiral! That's normal!"This unreserved recognition and encouragement made Koby's eyes fill with tears instantly, his heart full of gratitude and motivation.This brief and dramatic reunion finally came to an end with Helmeppo's threat of "You guys just wait and see!", which lacked any intimidation.As the Marine fleet slowly sailed away from Water 7, the tense atmosphere that had hung over the Straw Hat crew finally dissipated.Sunlight once again bathed Dock One, and their thrilling yet heartwarming daily life returned to peace once more.
Chapter 196: Aokiji's VisitInside the temporary lounge of Dock 1, time passed leisurely.Everyone was busy with their own tasks until a seemingly casual question from Robin triggered a chain reaction."Robin-chan~ Your coffee is ready! I've specially paired it with a fresh cream strawberry cake; I hope it's to your liking."Sanji, like an elegant waiter, glided out from the Rainbow Gate with a precise slide, the tray in his hand steady as a rock.He gently placed the aromatic coffee and the exquisite cake on the coffee table in front of Robin."Please enjoy, beautiful lady!""Thank you, Sanji."Robin replied with a gentle smile and picked up the coffee cup to take a small sip!"It's delicious! By the way, how is the construction of the new ship progressing?""Hmm,"Sanji straightened his tie and recalled,"Mark and Franky have successfully and carefully separated the going merry's keel.""Now they are arguing incessantly over which core material to choose.""I see..."A flicker of imperceptible gloom passed through Robin's eyes; thinking about the going merry, which had accompanied them on their voyage until now, being dismantled, she couldn't help but feel a bit sentimental.Sanji keenly caught her emotion and immediately explained:"Don't worry, Robin-chan. I heard from Franky that they plan to integrate the going merry into a brand-new 'Soldier Dock System',""It won't disappear; instead, it will be reborn in another form.""That's wonderful! Our shipwrights are truly reliable."Robin's smile bloomed again, like a passing spring breeze.She set down her coffee cup and remembered something else,"Oh right, the shipwrights said the city's reconstruction is nearing its end. They'll be putting all their effort into helping us build the ship afterward... and they only ask for meals, no payment at all."Sanji nodded seriously, his chef's instincts beginning to ponder:"It looks like I'll need to prepare some nutritious dishes that can quickly relieve fatigue and replenish stamina."He looked around and blinked,"By the way, why don't I see Miss Nami?""Her?"Robin smiled, "Hearing that the shipbuilding was free put her in a great mood. She took Chopper and Merry to the pool in the back to relax.""The... pool...?"Those words were like a magic spell; Sanji's eyes instantly turned into boiling hearts, popping out of his sockets!"Miss Nami! Between the sunlight and the blue waves, you surely need a romantic chilled cocktail! And sweet macarons and fruit tarts!... Nami-san! I'm coming!!"Before he had even finished speaking, he had already vanished out the door like a whirlwind.Robin watched this scene and chuckled, covering her mouth, then picked up her book again and immersed herself in her own world.A moment later, the Rainbow Gate fluctuated again.Mark and Luffy walked out one after the other.Before Luffy had even steadied himself, his trademark howl resounded through the room:"I'm starving—! Sanji! Meat—!"Mark, on the other hand, was rubbing his temples with a look of exhaustion, sighing:"I'm exhausted... This shipbuilding job is truly worthy of being called the second greatest profession!""Eh?"Luffy's attention was instantly captured, and he leaned in like a curious toddler,"Then what's the first greatest profession?"Mark gave him a frustrated look and sighed:"Hmph! First is being the Vice Captain for a heartless rubber idiot like you!"He became more and more helpless as he spoke,"For such a massive project as shipbuilding, it's one thing that you don't help, but you insisted on putting a giant bronze statue of yourself on the bow! You almost got into a fight with Franky over it!""It's just building a bronze statue, is it that hard?" Luffy tilted his head, his face full of innocence."Sigh, just stop giving blind orders!"Mark facepalmed,"Such a large bronze statue would seriously affect the ship's center of gravity!""If you actually dared to build it, Nami would be the first to go after my wallet!"He looked around as he spoke, "Speaking of Nami... where did they go?""Smells so good! It's barbecue! Mizu Mizu Meat! Sanji's barbecue!"Luffy's sense of smell automatically locked onto the grill in the backyard, and his drool instantly flowed like a waterfall.Without even waiting for Robin's answer, his rubber arms suddenly stretched out, grabbing Mark's collar. Like a fired cannonball, he dragged the screaming Mark and sprinted toward the backyard pool."Hey! Don't pull me... Drool! Ah... don't drip it on my clothes! Ahhh—!"Only the shrill tail end of Mark's voice echoed in the air.By the backyard pool, it was a different lively scene. Nami, Chimney, Kokoro, and Merry were in the middle of an intense volleyball match in the water."I'm so jealous... Even though Nami is also an ability user, she can play in the pool..."Chopper leaned leisurely against Ink Meteor's soft, warm belly, crossing his legs and taking a bite of the cotton candy in his hand, his tone full of envy,"I didn't expect Kokoro to actually be a mermaid..."Just then, Sanji's voice, overflowing with happiness, drifted over:"Miss Nami~! The special Mizu Mizu Meat skewers are ready!""Okay! Coming right now!" Nami waved from the water.Splash!From the side, Kokoro leaped out of the water with an agility that completely belied her size, sending up a spray of water and landing steadily behind Sanji, her nose sniffing hard."Granny is so amazing!" Chimney clapped in the pool."Mmm~! Such a wonderful smell!" Kokoro praised sincerely."Right!"With giant heart-eyes, Sanji held two skewers of Mizu Mizu Meat that were grilled to a fragrant, sizzling char. He turned around affectionately and, without even looking, said tenderly:"Come, dear Miss Nami, open wide~ Ahhh—"Then, those two carefully grilled meat skewers were precisely stuffed into Kokoro's open mouth.The smile on Sanji's face instantly froze, and the world seemed to lose its color:"Noooo—!!!""Hahaha! The taste is truly top-notch!" Kokorochewed, letting out a boisterous laugh."Meat—!"At the same time, Luffy, like a starving tiger pouncing on its prey, came flying in while dragging the dizzy Mark, heading straight for the grill!Mark was tossed aside like trash, hitting the stone wall by the pool with a "thud," leaving a perfect human-shaped indentation."Idiot Captain!" Mark's voice came muffled from the cracks in the wall."Delicious! Delicious! Mizu Mizu Meat is the best!" Luffy ate with both hands, his cheeks stuffed full as he cheered indistinctly."You guys... just go ahead and eat... eat more..."Sanji stood with his back to everyone, his shoulders trembling slightly against a dark and gloomy background,"I'll just... cry for a bit by myself, that's enough...""What the hell are you crying for!"Zoro also walked in, unceremoniously grabbed a large handful of meat skewers from the grill, and walked straight over to sit on the nearby steps, casually complaining as he passed Sanji."None of your business, Marimo! I just have some sand in my eyes!"Sanji immediately snapped back in rebuttal."Ah! Robin-chan! You're here too! Please, have a seat and try what I just grilled!"As soon as he saw Robin walk in, Sanji instantly revitalized and greeted her like the most attentive waiter."Ah! Over there! Big Brother Luffy! You're awake!" The lackeys of the Franky Family also arrived in a grand procession."Oh! Franky Family! Come over here, there's plenty of space!"Luffy waved his greasy arms and called out loudly."Wow! Barbecue! Our favorite!" The Franky Familyimmediately surged in with cheers, making the scene even more lively."Sanji! More meat! More meat! There's not nearly enough for this many people!" Luffy shouted toward Sanji."Mark! Stop playing dead! Bring out all the food supplies from your space!"Sanji shouted at the human-shaped indentation on the wall."Sigh, honestly..." Mark painstakingly pried himself out of the wall, looking reluctant."Never mind,"Sanji advised, "They're also putting their lives on the line to help us.""I'm not stingy with the ingredients!"Mark brushed the dust off himself, glaring at Luffythrough gritted teeth,"I'm just very, very annoyed with a certain rubber idiot!""Hehey, Usopp!"Mark's eyes darted around, and he saw his long-nosed comrade who had just jumped down from a giant's shoulder, so he immediately approached him,"Do you... have any super chili oil in stock?""Hehey! Are you questioning my professional expertise as 'Sogeking' and 'Gadget Expert'?"Usopp caught on immediately. The two shared a smile, their faces sporting mischievous grins that only they understood as they prepared a prank, their eyes simultaneously locking onto the gluttonous Luffy."What are you all doing here at the pool?"Bally walked in with a group of Galley-Lashipwrights.When he saw Nami in her swimsuit, looking languid, his face flushed red in an instant."Ah! You... you shameless woman!" Bally pointed at Nami, roaring stutteringly."Hey, big guy, please get it straight,"Nami lay leisurely on a beach chair, took a bite of Mizu Mizu Meat, and responded calmly,"This is a pool; isn't it normal to wear a swimsuit?""The smell is wonderful." Iceburg also smiled as he entered the scene."Mr. Iceburg!""Mr. Iceburg! You absolutely cannot look at this!"Bally pulled out a large piece of canvas from somewhere and frantically tried to block Nami from view, his face as red as a cooked shrimp,"She... she's a pervert!""Pervert? Ow~ Are you talking about me?"Franky made a grand entrance with the Cutty Flams Sisters, striking his trademark Super pose."The ship repair work has reached a temporary stopping point! If I missed a super feast like this, I wouldn't be a true man!"Franky and the Cutty Flams Sisters shouted in unison,"Ow~! Is there a spot for yours truly?""Is there a spot?" the Cutty Flams Sisters repeated."We've been waiting for you, Big Brother!" Franky's lackeys erupted in enthusiastic cheers."Here it comes—!"At some point, Usopp had used wooden crates and planks to build a simple stage over ten meters high in the corner.He stood at the top, one hand on his hip and the other pointing to the sky, looking high-spirited."Music! Start!""First, the Great Sogeking—me!—will sing a song for everyone!""Ow—!""Super—!""It's party time—!!!"Luffy raised his glass high and let out an earth-shaking cheer."Oh—!" The mountain-shaking, sea-tsunami-like response instantly pushed the atmosphere to a climax."Born on the Island of Snipers... I never miss! Lu-lu-la-la-la—!" Usopp sang passionately."Ow—!"Cheers, singing, laughter, and the clinking of glasses intertwined, merging into an ocean of joy that filled the entire pool area.This grand party lasted from high noon until the sun began to set in the evening.Robin, holding a glass of champagne, quietly left the center of the bustle and strolled to the courtyard wall, which was dyed golden by the setting sun, enjoying a moment of tranquility.However, just as she leaned her back against the cool wall, a low and familiar voice—one enough to freeze her blood—drifted clearly into her ears like a ghost:"Just listen like that; don't move, Nico Robin."Robin's pupils suddenly contracted, and her muscles tensed instantly; even her breathing almost stopped. It was the voice of Aokiji Kuzan!"Why didn't you run away like you did in the past?"Aokiji's voice carried no emotion, as if he were merely stating a fact,"With your abilities, escaping from CP9 on your own should have been easy."Robin took a deep breath and forced herself to calm down. Her voice was soft but exceptionally firm:"Now is... different from before. I've found a place where I belong. They... are my family.""Family, huh?"Kuzan's voice seemed to have a slight, imperceptible tremor,"Saul... he was my close friend.""What?" Robin's heart jolted."That day, on Ohara, I let you go in accordance with his final will."Kuzan's voice was low and slow, laden with heavy memories,"From that moment on, I felt I had an obligation... to keep an eye on the trajectory of your life.""I had intended to use this opportunity to settle things once and for all, but I didn't expect both CP9 and Guernica to fail...""Have you finally... found a place to rest?""Yes." Robin nodded solemnly and with certainty."I see..."Kuzan seemed to breathe a sigh of relief, or perhaps he was confirming something,"Saul told you to live... Can you prove to me whether that choice was right or wrong, Robin?""That is exactly my intention." Robin's voice was filled with unprecedented strength and determination."Then... live well. Ohara... has not perished."Footsteps sounded softly; Kuzan seemed ready to leave. But after just a few steps, he stopped and turned his gaze to the top of the wall, his tone carrying a hint of helplessness:"Are you here to monitor me?"Mark was sitting on the wall at some point, swinging his legs with a relaxed smile on his face. He waved and said:"I wouldn't dare. I just happen to be here enjoying the sunset.""Aren't you afraid I'll arrest you all right now?" Kuzan's voice took on a chill."Haha!"Mark laughed,"Old man Garp just gave the word for us to rest peacefully on the island.""If you were to act now, wouldn't that be disrespecting him? Of course, if you want to try, we'll accompany you to the end.""Hmph." Kuzan snorted softly."Oh, don't be so serious, Mr. Admiral."Mark jumped down from the wall and, like a magic trick, produced two cups and a bottle of fine wine,"Since you're here, why not have a drink? Sanji's barbecue is one of a kind; it would be a shame to miss it.""Hmph! I must say, your gall is truly something else.""Yours isn't exactly small either!"Mark laughed, casually tossing a comical mask that only covered half the face to Kuzan,"Wear this, as long as you promise not to get rowdy when you're drunk.""Heh..." Kuzan looked at the mask in his hand and let out an ambiguous chuckle, but he still snapped it onto his face.And so, at this wild party belonging to the Straw Hat crew and their friends, a tall, mysterious man wearing an eye patch and a half-mask,quietly joined in, blending into the bustle and warmth under the setting sun, forming a strange yet harmonious picture.
Chapter 197: Meeting of the Four EmperorsThe grand banquet of the Straw Hat crew lasted from the blazing noon, through the starry night, and into the first glimmer of dawn.The scale of the revelry far exceeded expectations; not only the shipwrights and the Franky Family, but many residents of Water 7 were deeply infected by the mood, joining this all-night celebration.The stage built by Usopp was already towering into the clouds, and although his voice had long since gone hoarse, under the reflection of the brilliant fireworks filling the sky...He still used his last ounce of strength, singing his self-composed "Sogeking's Song" at the top of his lungs, pushing the atmosphere to a climax again and again.In the pool area, Kokoro showed off her elegant mermaid swimming style, playing and frolicking with a group of children.Chopper rode on Ink Meteor, chasing Merry in the water, splashing happy water droplets.Zoro, Mark, and that mysterious guest wearing a half-mask sat together with the hearty shipwrights; no excessive words were needed, just raising their glasses, and amidst the crisp clinking sounds and knowing smiles, everything was left unsaid."Not enough! Still not enough! Everyone, get even more fired up—!"Luffy and Franky had their arms around each other's shoulders, dancing a strange yet infectious dance, leading the rhythm of the entire scene.Until the east turned white and the sky broke with dawn, this carnival that had swept through the entire backyard finally drew to a close, leaving behind a messy scene and sleeping contentment.Meanwhile, at the center of world power—Holy Land Mary Geoise.The urgent ringing of transponder snails broke the early morning silence, one after another."Brr-brr-brr...""Gorosei! Gorosei! Something terrible has happened!"A Marine Commodore scrambled into the Chamber of Authority, crawling on the polished floor, his voice trembling with extreme fear as cold sweat dripped constantly."Why the panic! Speak!""It... it's an urgent report from the front line! The fleet sent to the New World a few days ago, intended for surveillance and deterrence... has been completely wiped out!""And... according to reliable intelligence, 'Red Hair' Shanks and 'Whitebeard' Edward Newgate... their fleets have officially made contact!""What?"The faces of the five supreme rulers of the world simultaneously revealed an expression of incredible shock.The contact between Red Hair and Whitebeardmeant far more than the loss of a fleet; it signaled that the balance of the New World might be completely shattered."Immediately!"The blonde elder stood up abruptly, his voice resolute."Prioritize all energy and resources we can mobilize toward the New World!""Use every means to closely monitor the development of the situation!""Any movement must be reported immediately!"New World, a sea area that was unusually calm.The massive Moby Dick, like a moving castle on the sea, was quietly anchored.The crew in the mast lookout raised their binoculars, nervously watching the red-hulled Red Force drawing closer in the distance."Pops! Pops!"A cowboy-dressed crew member hurried to the bow deck and reported to the back that was as majestic as a mountain."Red Hair... Red Hair Shanks says he wants to see you!""Gurarara..."Whitebeard Edward Newgate slowly turned his head. The giant wine barrel in front of him, capable of holding an ordinary person, was merely a slightly large cup in his hands.He tilted his head and gulped down a mouthful of strong liquor, his voice rough."Let him come over! That brat... should have brought some good wine!"On the Red Force."Direction correct, lower the sails!"Following the order, the members of the Red Hair Pirates busied themselves efficiently.The sails were lowered, the anchor was dropped, and the Red Force docked steadily beside the gargantuan hull of the Moby Dick with a perfect maneuver.The officers on the decks of the two ships looked at each other from across the distance, and as their eyes met, an invisible aura collided and surged in the air."Captain of the Red Hair Pirates—Shanks, coming aboard for a visit!"An announcement rang out, and heavy wooden planks quickly connected the two ships."Red Hair is coming up!"The 3rd Division Commander, "Diamond" Jozu, stood up, his expression solemn."Hey, all you rookies and weaklings, get to the back!"The 1st Division Commander, "Phoenix" Marco, stood up lazily. While digging his ear, he commanded in an unquestionable tone."Your bodies and spirits... won't be able to handle it.""Bodies can't handle it?""What does that mean?""Don't ask! Hide quickly!"Just as Marco finished speaking—Creak... creak... creak...A steady, powerful sound of footsteps, as if stepping on everyone's heart, came from the planks connecting the two ships.With every step Shanks took, the young pirates in the front row on the deck of the Moby Dick were like being struck by an invisible hammer; their eyes rolled back, and they fell to the ground one after another, completely losing consciousness.Thud! Thud! Thud!"Hey! What's wrong with you guys?""What on earth is happening?"The confused crew members let out horrified cries."Sigh~ It was too late after all." Marco sighed helplessly and comforted the crowd."Don't panic, they just fainted."His gaze turned to the red-haired figure walking slowly while dragging a huge wine jar.Jozu crossed his arms and added in a low voice."Those without firm willpower or mediocre strength don't even have the qualifications to stay conscious in front of that man!""Haki... still as powerful as ever, Shanks."Whitebeard sat steadily on his massive, exclusive throne, looking calmly at his opponent and old acquaintance who was approaching step by step.Shanks walked all the way, and the rookies on both sides fell down like harvested wheat.He walked straight to Whitebeard before finally looking up.That weather-beaten yet still handsome face carried a calm and confident smile."Pardon my intrusion.""Coming aboard an enemy ship for the first time, I had to give a little warning." His tone was relaxed."Seeing your face, the wounds that bastard left on me start to ache."Whitebeard touched his chest, the scar left by Thatch's murder and Blackbeard's betrayal—not just on his body, but in his heart."So I brought some medicinal wine to heal the wounds."Shanks placed the huge wine jar on the ground, his tone becoming serious."I didn't come here to fight.""There is an important matter that I must discuss with you.""Hmph! A guy whose Haki is overflowing says something like this?""What an idiot!""Gurarara!"Whitebeard let out a loud laugh, shaking the air."Hey! Red Hair! Look at the mess you've made!"Marco pointed to the comrades lying on the deck and expressed his dissatisfaction to Shanks."Oh~ Is that Marco?"Shanks seemed to have just noticed him, his eyes lighting up, and he actually issued a sincere and outrageous invitation right in front of Whitebeard."How about it, want to come to my ship?""Idiot! How is that possible!"Marco was left speechless and amused by this unexpected poaching attempt."Pops, we..."Jozu looked at Whitebeard, waiting for instructions."Hmm..."Whitebeard waved his hand."You all step back, let us two be alone for a while.""This guy... didn't come to fight today."Splash—Shanks picked up the wine jar and poured himself a full, large bowl—though called a bowl, its capacity was enough to satisfy ten ordinary people.Then, he casually tossed the remaining half-jar of wine to Whitebeard.Whitebeard caught the jar, brought it to his nose to sniff, and a trace of distaste appeared on his face."West Blue wine?""It's not exactly top-shelf stuff.""I have sailed all the oceans of the world."Shanks raised his wine bowl, his gaze seemingly piercing through the clear liquid in the bowl, seeing the distant past."But no wine can surpass the taste of this, brewed with water that can soak into your skin."He looked up, the confident smile on his face dazzling."This is the wine of my hometown.""Give it a taste, Whitebeard.""Hmph!"Whitebeard said no more, tilted his head, and gulped the wine from the jar into his throat like a long whale drinking water."Ha—!""Not bad!"His giant eyes looked at Shanks with a hint of emotion."Roger, Garp, Sengoku... those familiar guys who galloped on the great sea in the past are getting fewer and fewer.""That was 22 years ago; it is only natural." Shanksreplied calmly."You brat, you finally made a name for yourself."Whitebeard sized up Shanks, a trace of nostalgia flashing in his eyes."Back then you were just an intern running errands on Roger's ship!""At that time our two ships often fought, and before I knew it, I remembered your face, always rushing to the front!""Gurarara!"He seemed to recall happy memories and laughed heartily again."Hahaha, right, what about that red-nosed brat who always yelled about dyeing my beard red?""Is he dead?""Buggy..."Shanks lowered his head, looking at his own reflection shaking in the wine bowl, a warm arc forming at the corner of his mouth."The day our Captain was executed, I parted ways with him, and I haven't seen him since.""I heard... he is still a pirate.""To me, that feels like only yesterday." Whitebeardshook the giant wine jar in his hand."That earth-shattering duel between you and Hawkeye also only recently reached my ears.""I really didn't expect... a man of your level would go to the weakest East Blue and lose an arm."His eyes became sharp, and his body leaned forward slightly, bringing a huge sense of oppression."Tell me, who exactly... could have such ability?"His gaze fell on Shanks' empty left sleeve."Cut off your left arm?"Shanks raised his right hand and gently touched the amputated sleeve of his left arm. There was no regret or pain on his face; instead, it was as if he were touching a medal of honor.He met Whitebeard's scrutinizing gaze, raised his head with immense confidence, and his voice was clear and powerful, as if announcing the arrival of a new era."This?""I bet it... on the new era!"
Chapter 198: Confrontation That Splits the HeavensWhitebeard tilted his head back and downed another large gulp of strong liquor, his Adam's apple bobbing with a dull swallowing sound."Ha—!"He exhaled a refreshing white mist thick with the scent of alcohol."As long as you don't regret it!""Whitebeard,"Shanks looked up, his gaze like a torch, as he pointed directly at the three hideous claw marks over his left eye."In my life, I have been through countless fierce battles, and the scars left on my body are too many to count!"His voice carried the weight of experience from many years passed."But to this day, only one scar still throbs with pain... this one!"His fingertips slowly traced the old wound at the corner of his eye, and his tone became incredibly solemn."This wound did not come from an adventure, nor was it caused by 'Hawkeye' Mihawk..."Shanks's eyes suddenly became as sharp as knives, locking onto Whitebeard."The one who wounded me is on your ship—Marshall D. Teach!"Whitebeard's massive frame shuddered. His eyes, which had seen everything in this world, stared fixedly at the scar on Shanks's face.Shanks's voice continued, filled with unquestionable certainty."I wasn't being careless in the slightest!"His voice suddenly rose like a clap of thunder."You should understand what I mean, Whitebeard! That man... Teach, has been hiding his true strength all along!""He didn't fight for a Commander position, nor did he seek fame. Like a venomous snake lurking in the shadows, he has been simply and patiently hiding his fangs!""For a long time, he has merely used your illustrious name, 'Whitebeard,' as a sanctuary while secretly gathering power!""Once he believes the time is ripe, he will act immediately!"Shanks's prophecy sliced through the air like a cold blade."Ultimately, his goal will be the apex of this sea!""By his own will, he will one day return to take everything from you!"As Shanks spoke, the once-clear sky seemed to sense the solemn atmosphere; it darkened rapidly as dark clouds began to gather.Whitebeard's low voice pierced the oppressive air like rolling thunder."After saying all that... what exactly do you want me to do?""That is the point!""Stop Ace!"Shanks blurted out, his eyes showing undisguised urgency and concern."..."Whitebeard's pupils dilated slightly. Just the mention of that name in such a manner caused his aura to shift!In an instant, the winds and clouds reversed, and an invisible pressure made the entire Moby Dick seem to sink a few inches!Facing this terrifying pressure, Shanks continued."To be able to sit in the position of your Second Division Commander at such a young age, I have no doubt about Ace's strength and potential!""He is strong; I know that better than anyone!""But fame and blind trust can sometimes lead things toward a worse situation!""Now... is far from the time for Ace and Teach to have a direct confrontation!"As soon as Shanks finished speaking, the liquor in his bowl began to vibrate violently, and the deck beneath his feet groaned under the burden!Whitebeard's anger had manifested into something physical!Shanks stared fixedly at Whitebeard, using his own powerful Haki to counter this terrifying aura as he spoke his final words with force."Tell him not to touch Blackbeard!""I board your ship today to ask only this one thing of you!"When the word "ask" reached his ears, Whitebeard's surging anger seemed to dissipate slightly, and the suffocating pressure around them eased.Whitebeard looked down at Shanks in silence, his gaze deep and thoughtful.Suddenly, he burst into loud laughter."Gurararara... Hahaha...!!!"The laughter was thunderous yet tinged with suppressed fury, piercing through layers of clouds and echoing across the open sea for a long time, shaking the soul.After the laughter, he lowered his head, his voice carrying unquestionable majesty."The snot-nosed brat... has become quite the smooth talker!""Teach... he committed a felony that no pirate ship on this sea can ever tolerate—murdering a crewmate!""He broke the iron rule!"His voice rose sharply, filled with the protective resolve of a 'father'."Once someone boards Whitebeard's ship, whether they are a fool or an idiot, they are my son!""Where should the soul of the murdered child go to find peace?""The 'benevolence' owed is a line that no reason can ever cross!""Teaching that bastard Teach this lesson... isn't that exactly my responsibility as a 'father'?"Whitebeard finished speaking angrily, lifted his massive sake jar, and drained the remaining liquid!"Do you understand? You idiot!""To think you can tell me what to do... you're a hundred years too early!!"Before his voice could fade, the empty massive jar was hurled violently toward Shanks!Shanks's face was grim. With a slight movement of his feet, his figure blurred, easily dodging the flying jar at a speed difficult for the naked eye to track.He didn't speak, but silently raised his own bowl of sake, tilted his head, and downed it with large gulps.Then, he stood up abruptly, his right hand resting steadily on the hilt of his famous blade, Gryphon.A majestic aura, no less powerful than Whitebeard's, exploded forth!"This runaway era... can no longer be stopped by anyone!"Shanks's voice rang out like a proclamation across the sky."It's not worth being afraid of at all!""I am... Whitebeard!!"Whitebeard roared back in response, his massive naginata, Murakumogiri, already in hand!CLANG—!!!!In the next instant, Gryphon's edge slammed into the massive blade of Murakumogiri!There was no testing of waters, only the purest clash of strength and Haki!An indescribable, terrifying shockwave radiated outward in a ring from the point of impact!The sky seemed like a piece of fragile cloth, torn apart by this force!The thick dark clouds rolled back to both sides, forming a massive, bottomless rift that spanned the horizon!The sea of clouds within the rift tumbled and roared frantically!Aboard the Red Force."Oh~? Have they started fighting?"The stout Lucky Roux bit into a large piece of meat as he leaned against the railing, looking up at the torn sky. There was no fear on his face; instead, he looked excited to watch the show.Aboard the Moby Dick."That Red Hair guy! What did he do to Pops?"A crew member shouted in terror."Don't be nervous,"Marco maintained his lazy posture, but his gaze was incredibly sharp."That guy... isn't someone who does stupid things.""But the negotiations... seem to have broken down."Jozu crossed his arms and spoke in a heavy voice."Look at the sky!""The clouds... no! The sky has split open!!"Countless crew members pointed at the miraculous sight, letting out cries of disbelief.In Water 7, it was already noon.The Franky Family was working hard in the Backstreet, clearing the ruins after the banquet.Suddenly, a round, bespectacled lackey came rushing over with a newly arrived newspaper, stumbling along as he cried out in a high-pitched, excited voice."Hey—! Everyone, look!""It's, it's today's newspaper!!"At first, the busy crowd didn't pay him any mind.Until he shouted the next sentence:"It reports on the Enies Lobby incident!!""What?"That sentence instantly ignited the scene!All the Franky Family lackeys immediately dropped what they were doing and swarmed over like a tide, surrounding the bespectacled lackey."Is it finally out?""What does it say?"Zambai squeezed to the front and asked impatiently, cold sweat nearly soaking through his tank top."This report concerns our very fate!""Uh... well..."The fat lackey was a bit intimidated by everyone's intensity and started to stutter, the newspaper trembling in his hands."Oh, come on! Just say it already!" Zambai stomped his feet in frustration.The fat lackey took a deep breath and finally dropped the bombshell."We... we don't seem... to be mentioned in the newspaper at all...""Huh——————?"A synchronized sigh of utter astonishment rang out."Not even... a mention?""I thought we were going to live a life on the run, being hunted by the World Government from now on!""That's... that's great!!""But... for some reason, I also feel really disappointed!""We did such a big thing, and not even a name was left behind!"The lackeys immediately began chattering among themselves, their feelings complicated—There was the joy of surviving a disaster, the regret of failing to "leave a mark on history," but most of all, a sense of security as the weight was finally lifted from their hearts.Inside the Galley-La Company's temporary breakroom.Zoro sat cross-legged on the floor, carefully reading the fresh newspaper."Hey... the way they wrote about us here is too ridiculous, isn't it?"He pointed at the headline on the paper."'Formal Declaration of War Against the World Government'!""And this, 'Possessed and used weapons of mass destruction capable of destroying islands,' pinning the whole blame for the sinking of Enies Lobby on us!""Oh~? It actually says here I'm 'devoid of humanity, a pure killing machine'?"Zoro wasn't angry; instead, he showed a slight, smug smile."With this... our bounties should go up quite a bit!""Really?""Then... then will I get a bounty too?"Chopper immediately leaned in, his eyes sparkling with excited little stars.Merry was also on the side, listening with a face full of anticipation."It's very likely!"Sanji closed his eyes, already beginning to indulge in a intoxicated fantasy."The most dazzling one will definitely be me! It'll be like a superstar descending upon the world!""I wonder how many beautiful ladies will be swept off their feet by my handsome face...""Thinking about it now, it really makes me feel a bit guilty~""What are you so smug about over there! Honestly!"Nami lay on the table with a look of despair, idly drawing circles with her finger."I already have a very bad premonition... this time my bounty will definitely become a terrifying number...""Where's Mark?"Chopper looked around but didn't see the Vice Captain."That guy is still in the Rainbow Space,"Sanji blew out a smoke ring and explained."For our future new ship, he's working hard alongside Franky and Iceburg.""I see... he's really working hard then," Nami replied listlessly."It can't be helped; he's the master of the Rainbow Space and in charge of all the construction materials.""For something as big as building a ship, he has to be there." Sanji shrugged.Nami's gaze turned toward Luffy, who was sitting nearby looking completely unconcerned and only thinking about his next meal. A flash of sudden anger surged in her heart, and she raised her hand to give him a punch on the head."Ah! Nami! Why did you hit me again!"Luffy held his head, crying out in grievance.Nami took a deep breath, suppressing her rage."It's because you spent all the money on that super banquet!""Hahaha! It was great, wasn't it?""I didn't expect all the residents from the backstreet to come!"Luffy immediately forgot the pain, a bright smile blooming on his face as he announced proudly."I'm most satisfied with this banquet! Shishishi!""No amount of money can withstand your squandering! Reflect on your actions, you bastard!"Nami was so angry that veins popped on her forehead, and she landed two more "bang bang" punches."I'm very sorry!"Luffy, sporting a fresh and even larger bump, went straight to his next plan."I don't care! I want to go shopping!""Give me some pocket money!"Apologizing was one thing, but making demands was another."You actually dare to..."Nami's rage was ignited once more.However, before her fist could fall, Luffy had already used his agility as a rubber man to slip through the door to the Rainbow Space and vanish.Although Nami kept all the cash, he knew that in Mark's "treasure vault," he could always find something good to trade for money.At this moment, the Straw Hat crew didn't realize that their figures—strolling through the streets of Water 7, shopping, laughing, and playing—had already been captured by the lenses of World Government intelligence agents and Marinejournalists hidden in the shadows.Stopped