Chapter 30: The Boy Who Cried WolfUsopp ran towards the Village while shouting in his heart, "Oh no!"Although Kuro's plan was aimed at Kaya, he would also slaughter the entire Village.By then, both Kaya and the villagers would be killed.But Usopp did not run away; he loved Kaya and loved everyone in the entire Village.At the same time, he recalled the scene of when he first met Kaya.At first, he had heard there was an unfortunate young girl here, so he had come to save her.That young girl was very afraid at first, but as time passed, he and she became good friends.At this moment, Zoro and the others, who were leaning against the fence, saw Usopp running from not far away.Zoro just wanted to ask where Luffy was, but he didn't get a response.Facing the waving hands of the three kids, Usopppaid no attention.He just kept running forward, then plunged into the Village.Seeing his nervous expression, Zoro and the others began to worry if something had happened to him.On the other side, Jango and Kuro arrived at a pirate ship near the reefs by the island.There were a large number of vicious pirates here, dressed strangely but all wearing cat ears.Kuro boarded the pirate ship: "Brothers... how are you all? It's been three years!""After the plan succeeds, I will give you the corresponding reward!""But in return, destroy the Village to your heart's content at dawn tomorrow!"The crowd of pirates cheered: "Great! Long live Captain Kuro!"Likewise, on the sea opposite the island, Alex, who had been training for a long time, was already lying on the ground, exhausted."Huff... huff...""It... it is indeed worthy of being called the most... most Chakra-consuming Ninjutsu..."What was the reason? Naturally, it was the Multiple Shadow Clone Technique; this was an advanced version of the Shadow Clone technique and was a forbidden Ninjutsu.Because the Shadow Clone technique splits one's own Chakra evenly; just three or four clones are nothing.But the Multiple Shadow Clone technique splits into at least twenty or thirty clones, which consumes a huge amount of Chakra. Ordinary people simply cannot handle this move.To quickly improve his strength, Alex specially cast this Ninjutsu. This time, Alex split into thirty clones.In the time that followed, he chose to fight against the Shadow Clones to train his reaction speed.Therefore, Ninjutsu, Taijutsu, and Byakugan were used in turns.First, he used Ninjutsu to clear the troops, but the effect was not ideal. After all, he only had 1/30th of his Chakra, and trying to compete with 29/30ths was like a mantis trying to stop a chariot.He aimed at a target and spat out a Great Fireball, but it was quickly blocked by a Water Dragon Bullet.A Water Severing Wave was also immediately blocked by combined Ninjutsu.Just like that, Alex began his difficult battle. It wasn't until the sun set that he ended the fight.Consequently, Alex's physical strength and Chakrawere almost depleted, and at the same time, the fatigue of twenty-plus clones surged onto him.Alex lay on the water for a while before returning to the shore to rest, using a few Body Flicker Techniques to get back.Then he saw Luffy, Zoro, and Nami there, discussing something with Usopp.The three kids were walking towards the Villagewith expressions of regret.Confused, he could only lie on the ground to rest while eavesdropping on what Usopp was saying.At this moment, Usopp just stood there, quietly watching the three people walking away.As night fell, the group stayed by the sea. Usoppbegan to treat the gunshot wound on his arm, recounting the events that had just occurred while he treated it.It turned out that ever since he learned of Kuro's ambition, Usopp had run desperately towards the Village, wanting to tell everyone that pirates would arrive tomorrow.Arriving at the Village, Usopp shouted as usual: "Oh no! Everyone, listen! Pirates are going to attack tomorrow!""They are going to attack this Village tomorrow morning!""Everyone, run for your lives!"But unfortunately, all the villagers once again treated this warning as a lie.Plus, he had already come once this morning, and now he was doing it again; clearly, he didn't want to let everyone rest.So everyone took the things they had on hand, like brooms and hoes, and walked out of their rooms."Hey! Usopp, don't be too presumptuous!""Today we are definitely going to deal with you!"Facing the angry villagers, Usopp changed his usual demeanor and said with a serious face that he wasn't lying this time.But the villagers were tired of listening; this simple effect was not enough to make them believe him, not to mention they knew Usopp's character very well."Don't think about lying to us again, Usopp. If you were as honest as Butler Klahadore at the mansion, I would believe you."Hearing this, Usopp recalled the meaning of Kuro's words at that time.That's right. For someone like him who lies, no matter how nicely he speaks, people wouldn't believe him anymore.But he truly loved this Village, and he really didn't want everyone to die.So Usopp shouted with all his might: "Please believe me! Run away! Otherwise, everyone will really be killed!"Meanwhile, far away at the mansion, Kaya and the sheep-headed Merry were discussing the butler's movements.But here at Usopp's side, it was lively; no matter how he explained, the villagers just wouldn't listen, even saying that if they had listened to him, they would have run away hundreds of times already.Even though Usopp exhausted himself trying to make everyone believe him, they still didn't believe him.Seeing that everyone didn't believe him, Usopphelplessly gave up on this idea and turned to run towards the mansion.At the mansion, the two bodyguards didn't see Usopp, as if they were blind.And those walls were just for show; Usopp jumped over them in a few moves.He arrived at the window he always went to and knocked on it.Kaya heard the sound, opened the window, and saw a panting Usopp.She had thought the conversation this morning would make him feel bad, but she didn't expect him to come again."Usopp! That's great, I thought you wouldn't come again..."Kaya just wanted to say some words of apology, but she didn't expect Usopp's next statement to leave her at a loss."Run away! You will be killed! You've been deceived! That butler is actually a pirate!"Kaya was a bit confused; she didn't know what Usopp was talking about and wanted him to slow down.But Usopp's next statement greatly exceeded her capacity to handle it.Usopp explained the matter simply, but Kaya still thought the other party was telling her a story like usual.So she still had some anticipation, until Usopp said that Kuro would come with pirates to kill everyone tomorrow morning; Kaya couldn't help it anymore."Please stop it, Usopp. I didn't expect to have misjudged you."Kaya's shouting finally made the two security guards notice that someone had entered the courtyard."I have always liked your stories; they are full of dreams and are so interesting, so I have always liked your lies.""But... but why must you tell such a lie this time!"Usopp tried to explain but was cut off by her saying he was really awful.At this moment, the guards walked over, and Usopphad no choice but to fight the bodyguards. Facing the bodyguards' firearms, Usopp took out his slingshot; every lead bullet could injure one person.In a few moves, the two guards were knocked to the ground.But the people from the Village had already chased after them. Seeing the seriousness of the situation, Usopp prepared to forcibly take Kaya away.Unfortunately, he was slapped hard by her, and she also said the words that broke his heart: "You are the big bad guy!"At this moment, Merry, standing behind Kaya, took out a pistol, trembling as it aimed at Usopp and shouted: "Let go of the young lady!"Then it pulled the trigger, while Kaya shouted "No!" from the side.Usopp also knew that it was best to escape from here quickly. He felt that his arm had been shot, but he did not know that Kaya had fallen ill after he left.Having escaped the pursuit of the villagers, Usoppcame to the seaside, where the setting sun cast long shadows.After seeing their Captain, the three kids began to ask about the cause of the matter. Seeing their faces, Usopp thought a lot, but still laughed out loud."It's a lie, just like usual. That butler made me so angry, so I just called him a pirate!"The three kids looked at Usopp, then at Luffy, and left with some disappointment. They didn't know why the Captain had to do this.Although he had told lies before, they weren't as malicious as today's."We are starting to despise the Captain a little bit."The three left this sentence behind and departed. After that was the scene Alex saw when he came ashore and saw the three children leaving.The above is what just happened."I like to lie, so everyone doesn't trust me from the bottom of their hearts! I was too naive!"Nami said: "Don't talk about these things; the fact is that the pirates will really come tomorrow, right?"Usopp nodded: "Yeah, they will come tomorrow, but everyone thinks this is a lie; they think tomorrow will be a peaceful day just like usual."Then Usopp stood up and shouted: "So, I am going to fight the pirates here at the seaside!""Turn this matter into a lie!""This is the only path I can take as a liar!"The three looked at Usopp, not expecting him to be able to say such spirited words."Even if my hand was hit by a bullet, and I was chased and beaten with brooms... this is, after all, the Village that raised me.""I love this Village! I want to protect everyone!""I cannot... watch everyone get killed!"Speaking of this, Usopp covered his face, wanting to hide his tears.Seeing that he would protect his Village even if it meant death, Zoro praised him repeatedly: "You are truly a good guy! I didn't expect that you drove the kids away to avoid implicating others and to fight alone.""Alright, I will help you!""Let's get this straight first, all the treasure belongs to me!"Usopp looked up at everyone, not expecting that they would want to help him."And me. Bastard butler, bastard Kuro, don't let me catch you!"A voice came from Alex, who was lying on the ground. The group looked over subconsciously and saw Alex standing not far away, watching everyone."Alex! Haha, that's great! By the way, where did you go just now? Forget it, don't talk about that, hurry and give me meat, I want to eat!"Seeing Alex's figure, Luffy realized that one person had been missing just now.Usopp looked at everyone; he didn't understand why they would stand up for him."You... are willing to fight side by side with me? Why?"Luffy said it was because there were many enemies; Zoro said it was because he saw that Usopp's expression was full of fear; Nami said it was simply for money; and Alex simply couldn't stand that butler Kuro and wanted to beat him up.Facing the words of the others, Usopp had no reaction, but when Zoro said he was afraid, he immediately stood up to refute."Hey! You actually said I was afraid! Stop talking nonsense! No matter how many come, I won't be afraid!""Because I am the bravest warrior of the sea—Captain Usopp!"
Chapter 31: Good MorningHowever, Usopp's trembling legs were a clear indication that this was all just bravado.Usopp knew he was afraid, so he pounded his legs desperately, trying to shake off the fear: "Da... da... damn it, damn it."But when he saw the four of them looking at his trembling legs, Usopp's face turned red with shame and anger."What are you looking at! The opponent is CaptainKuro! It's only natural to be afraid! So what! I don't need your pity! Get out of here! Get lost!"Zoro replied: "We aren't pitying you; we're helping you because we think you're impressive!"Luffy also added, who would risk their life out of pity?Alex nodded in agreement from the side.Next, the group began discussing how to deal with the pirate attack the next morning.Usopp pointed to the sea: "They will attack from here, but to attack from here, they have no choice but to take this slope, other than the cliffs. In other words, as long as we hold this slope, the Villagewon't be attacked!"Luffy exclaimed: "So it's that simple!"Usopp warned them not to be careless: "It's easy to say, but the key is fighting strength. By the way, what can you all do?"Luffy, Alex, Zoro, and Nami responded in turn. "Stretch," "Burn," "Cut," "Steal."And Usopp added, "Hide."Everyone gestured wildly, telling him to go out and fight!Kaya, one of the protagonists of this drama, had already fallen asleep.Kuro returned to the mansion, and Merry was discussing what had just happened with him."I didn't expect something like this to happen while I was at the neighboring town. That brat named Usopp is really a headache."Merry echoed his sentiment: "Exactly. I suppose he must have heard the words of that pirate carrying the huge scroll and said that because of it."Hearing this, Kuro thought of the words of that pretty boy and considered whether to eliminate him.But thinking about the upcoming pirate invasion, he decided to kill him then.With that in mind, Kuro looked down and saw a gift box on the table, and quickly asked Merry what it was.Seeing that he had noticed it, Merry immediately told him: "It's a gift from the young lady. Tomorrow is the third anniversary of your arrival here!"Kuro opened the packaging to find a pair of glasses. Looking at them, he muttered faintly: "...Anniversary..."Merry wiped away tears with a handkerchief and said: "Because she saw your glasses kept sliding down, the young lady designed and had them custom-made for you. The young lady is truly such a thoughtful and gentle person..."Before Merry could finish, he saw Kuro pick up the gift, walk to the window, and look outside, saying slowly."Speaking of anniversaries... tomorrow is indeed an anniversary."Then he looked out the window and threw the glasses and the gift box onto the floor."It's a new moon tonight, isn't it! Such a night really makes one's heart race and blood boil."He then stomped on the glasses, shattering them. Merry was shocked to see this.He questioned him: "K... Butler Klahadore, why did you..."Before he could finish, Kuro interrupted him: "A gift? I will accept it... but not this thing... but the entire mansion!"Merry did not understand what he was talking about.But Kuro didn't want to hide it anymore: "At this point, there's no need for me to keep acting. Anyway, something will happen in a few hours. Three years has been too long."The next second, four sharp blades flashed as they rushed toward Merry.At this moment, Merry recalled Usopp's words and shouted at the top of his lungs: "...Young lady, run away!"Unfortunately, before he could finish shouting, he was taken out by Kuro in one move, and then Merryfell into a pool of blood.As the moon gradually sank, on the pirate ship docked at the shore, several pirates knocked on the door of a room."Captain Jango. The sky is about to brighten! Get up!"Jango walked out of the room with an eerie gait.The pirates on the side quickly greeted him: "Good morning! Captain."Jango walked while scolding them: "Idiots! Didn't I stipulate that 'good morning' can only be said after sunrise? It is still a night with the moon hanging high..."Hearing Jango's scolding, the underling quickly apologized: "S... sorry."Then Jango walked to the bow of the ship with his unique dance steps and said: "Brothers! Good morning!"Hearing this, all the pirates knew that the revelry had begun!Everyone shouted excitedly: "Yes! Let's go!"At this moment, Usopp had finished the setup and was explaining it to everyone."Good! It's perfect! With so much oil spread, those guys won't be able to climb this slope! We can launch an attack while the enemies are unsteady on this slippery slope. In any case, we must hold this slope at all costs!"Nami also reminded everyone: "Just make sure not to slide down yourselves, or you'll get flattened!"Luffy was sitting on the ground playing around, sighing while he played that Usopp was really something.At this time, Alex asked: "Usopp, are you sure the pirates will come out from here?"Hearing this, Usopp stood frozen: "That's right, there's another road leading to the Village. I forgot! I just assumed that since they were chatting there, they would attack from here!"Hearing Usopp's words, the others were a bit confused, but Alex reminded everyone not to forget how they had arrived.Thinking of this, everyone realized there was another place to land."So what should we do? Should we split our forces to block that road, or gamble on holding just one?"Alex asked Usopp, who was standing by, as this battle was his home turf.Usopp looked at the sun about to rise, knowing that if they didn't come up with a plan, they would run out of time."Let's split into two groups!"In the end, Usopp chose to split into two groups."In that case, Nami, give me the signal flare. I'll guard here alone. If the enemy comes from where you are, fire the signal flare, got it!""Hey, hey, Alex, will you be okay alone?""Hehe, don't worry, Alex will definitely be fine.""That's right, he probably learned some incredible Ninjutsu again!"Usopp expressed some concern after hearing that Alex would be guarding a point alone.But Luffy said not to worry, and Zoro said that he must have learned some powerful Ninjutsu again."Don't worry. As a Ninja, I really do know the most basic Fire Release. Using Fire Release here will at least hold them off for quite some time."Alex also gave Usopp his assurance.Hearing that the other party was a Ninja and could use Fire Release, Usopp said he wanted to see it, but Alex told him there wasn't enough time and it was better to go over and make some preparations.At the same time, he gave Luffy and Zoro two pills each."These are blood-replenishing pills and soldier ration pills. The blood-replenishing pill is red and can quickly increase lost blood. The soldier ration pill is black; you can think of it as a type of compressed food. Eating it will give you a feeling of fullness and can also restore a large amount of stamina and heal some injuries. Keep them safe; they might just save your life."Luffy and Zoro nodded, and then the four of them ran toward the other side.These pills were made from herbs he had picked on the Rare Island.Just like that, Alex guarded one intersection alone, while Luffy, Usopp, and the others ran toward the other side.Just before dawn, the four of them arrived at the location, where they saw a pirate ship.And at this moment, the sun rose from the sea.A pirate ship carved with a cat's head approached the shore, and Jango shouted: "Brothers, land! Destroy the Village, and head straight for the mansion!"The group of pirates yelled to vent their emotions.At this moment, the lookout saw the small boat on the side and the people on the shore."Captain, there are two strange boats there, and there are four people on top of the slope.""Don't worry about it. It's not going to be a treasure ship anyway. As for the people on the slope, just kill them."Hearing Jango's order, the group of pirates ran toward the slope, howling.As soon as they stepped on it, they found that the slope was covered in a large amount of oil, causing them to lose their footing."Hehe, it seems my slippery oil strategy is a great success. Next, watch my attack."Usopp grabbed a handful of lead pellets and fired them with his slingshot; each pellet was enough to knock a pirate to the ground."Damn it! How dare you look down on us! It's just a pool of oil! Brothers, use sand and dirt to cover the oil!"The pirates behind saw this and began throwing sand and dirt onto the oil. Before long, the dirt covered the oil, and now there was nothing to stop them."Men, tear them to pieces!""Gomu Gomu no Gatling!"Luffy made his move; he swung his arms and attacked the pirates in front of him. Every punch sent a pirate flying, and every punch took out a pirate."So... so amazing!" Usopp watched Luffy unleashing his power there, marveling endlessly.Nami, on the side, lit the signal flare.At this time, Alex, on the other side, was getting a bit bored waiting. Just then, he heard the sound of the signal flare, and when he looked up, sure enough, it was the signal flare.That wisp of white smoke and the small explosion were notifying him that the pirates had landed over there.Alex used the Body Flicker Technique and headed toward Luffy's side.Over at Luffy's location, Jango saw how strong Luffywas and knew he had to act. He randomly took out a ring and shouted: "Look here. When I finish saying 'One, two, Jango,' you will fall asleep. One... two... Jango!"Seeing this, Zoro, Usopp, and Nami all looked away. Only Luffy fell for it again and lay down.Seeing this, the pirates were overjoyed. That monster-like existence was asleep, and all that was left was a swordsman, a coward, and a girl.Just at this moment, a voice like that of the King of Hell came from somewhere."Ninja Art: Toad Oil!""Fire Release: Great Fireball Technique!""Wind Release: Breakthrough!""Compound Ninjutsu: Cauldron Cooking Technique!"A large mass of burning hot oil descended from the sky, attacking in the direction of the pirates."Sorry, I'm not late, am I!""No, Alex, you arrived at just the right time!"Looking at Zoro's serious expression, Alex looked at Luffy, who was lying on the ground, shook his head, and tapped his forehead with his finger."Wake up, Luffy."The next second, Luffy opened his eyes: "Is it time for breakfast, Alex? Ha~ that was a good sleep."Alex's arrival undoubtedly increased the combat power on Luffy's side.Plus, the Ninjutsu from just now caused heavy casualties among the pirates.It wasn't that the power wasn't enough, but many people used their companions' corpses as jumping points to dodge the attack, although there were large-scale burns.But under Jango's hypnosis, these pains were considered minor matters.
Chapter 32: The Conspiracy ExposedAt this moment, Kuro sat in front of the mansion's main gate with a gloomy expression on his face.He kept pushing up his glasses, complaining about why it was taking so long."This bunch of useless idiots... They clearly know what kind of fate awaits those who ruin my plans, yet they are still dragging their feet!If they think they can just forget about this matter... I will make them pay with their lives!"After saying this, Kuro left the mansion and headed toward the beach.By the beach, Alex's Ninjutsu had already dissipated. A large amount of oil had flowed down the slope into the sea, and while some remained stuck on the ground, it no longer posed much of a threat.Looking at his fallen brethren and the hot oil on the land, Captain Jango lowered his head, remaining silent.Meanwhile, Usopp stood to the side, marveling at how powerful they were.Jango looked at the pirates lying on the ground: "Hey! Brothers! You haven't been scared off by those three brats, have you?!"Hearing Jango's words, everyone propped themselves up on their weapons and sat up from the ground."Oh, you can still stand up? It seems your hypnosis is quite strong!"Alex watched the large group of people stand up, unable to help but marvel at their willpower and the power of the hypnosis.Jango ignored him and told everyone to gather. Having witnessed the strength of those people across from them, he prepared to hypnotize them all again."Come on, stare at this ring! When I say 'One, two, Jango,' you will become stronger, your wounds will heal completely, and you will become stronger and stronger!"Watching the opponent's actions, Luffy and the others were a bit confused: "What are those guys doing?"Usopp indicated that he didn't know."Heh, what else could it be? Hypnotic power-up, what else would it be?"Alex provided the answer. As for why he didn't stop them, it was simply because he also wanted to know how much power these people would gain after being hypnotized.On his side, Jango swung the ring while covering his eyes with his hat."One... two... Jango!"The pirates let out chaotic yells once again, but this time, one could feel their strength had clearly increased.Alex activated his Byakugan to inspect their internal conditions, discovering that their adrenaline was secreting in massive amounts, while their blood flow and organ function accelerated, as if their entire bodies had been enhanced.What was even more crucial was that this enhancement did not cause any damage to the human body."Such clever hypnosis." Alex exclaimed after observing them.Seeing the pirates stand up, Nami also exclaimed: "No way, they couldn't even stand up just a moment ago."Subsequently, one of the henchmen punched the wall beside him.The terrifying force knocked a large chunk off the cliff wall.Seeing this, Zoro exclaimed: "What terrifying power! They actually collapsed part of the cliff."Seeing this scene, Nami and Usopp repeatedly said it was impossible.Nami wondered if this change in them was really just hypnosis.And what Usopp worried about was that if so many people capable of collapsing a cliff with a single punch swarmed them, they would definitely die.Jango pointed at the few people on the slope and shouted: "Go! Twist the guys blocking our way into pretzels!"The crowd of hypnotized pirates charged toward Luffy and the others, howling.At some point, Zoro had tied the bandana from his arm around his head, then drew his three swords, ready to fight.Then he looked at Alex: "Alex, did you figure out how they're doing this?""Ah, I only know that this hypnosis is very profound, I don't know the rest. Also, just leave these guys to me; you guys step back and give me some space...""Is that so? Then we'll step back." Luffy pulled everyone back a few steps to leave some space for Alex.Seeing this, Alex walked to the front, looking at the group of howling pirates charging forward."Since your recovery is so strong, I don't need to worry. Shadow Clone Jutsu!"In the next second, four Shadow Clones appeared. Then, the Shadow Clones extended their right hands, and a blue sphere appeared on each of their right hands.Seeing this, Jango and Luffy's group were confused. Luffy and the others did know about the Rasengan, after all, they had used it to travel.However, Jango didn't know what it was, but he believed in the strength of these hypnotized pirates."Don't be afraid, it's just a trick!"Upon hearing Jango's words, the pirates charged forward as if they had no brains.Then, as the Chakra increased, the Rasengan grew larger and larger until each one reached a diameter of about two meters before stopping."Ninjutsu: Big Ball Rasengan!" x 5Alex and his four clones each held a Big Ball Rasengan and ran forward.The first Big Ball Rasengan struck the person in the very front.The intense turbulence of Chakra sent that person and the pirates behind him flying.Then came the second, the third, all the way to the fifth.As all the Big Ball Rasengans vanished, the slope was now devastated; the ground had been torn apart, and the cliff had been broken.These events all took place in an instant."So... so strong!" This was what Usopp and Namiwere thinking.Luffy and Zoro stood in place, smiling as they watched everything unfold.Jango looked on as his brothers were wiped out in an instant, and he couldn't help but feel worried.At this moment, a voice came: "Hey, hey, Patchy Cat, come and look, everyone has been beaten down!""What? How did everyone get beaten down?"At this moment, a pirate stuttered, revealing the owners of these two voices."Th-that voice is... the ship guards, the Meowban Brothers."Jango realized at this moment: "That's right, those two guys are here!"On the other side, on the path from the Villagetoward the beach, Kuro pushed up his glasses and walked toward the beach carrying a bag.Behind Kuro, a figure was watching quietly.It turned out to be Onion; he had discovered Kurowalking toward the beach."It really is the mansion's butler! Why is he going to the beach so early...?"After confirming it was the butler, Onion recalled what Captain Usopp had said last night.Inside the mansion, Kaya woke up from a nightmare. In the dream just now, she had seen a scene where Usopp was wielding a knife and killing people everywhere.This left her in a panic, causing her to wake up.Realizing it was a nightmare, Kaya sat on the bed, panting heavily."I don't understand, cough cough... why would Usopp do such a thing, cough cough..."Clearly, the events of yesterday afternoon had caused a huge shock to this young lady.But after waiting for a long time and not seeing the butler come over, Kaya struggled to get out of bed and went to knock on the butler's door."Butler Klahadore! Butler Klahadore, are you there?"After waiting for a long time without a response, Kaya pushed open the door.What met her eyes was Merry lying in a pool of blood. Seeing this scene, Kaya screamed.She then quickly went to Merry's side and turned his body over."What's wrong with you? What happened? Wake up, Merry! Don't die!"As Kaya shook him, the blood stuck in Merry's airway was expelled.With the clotted blood expelled, Merry could finally breathe smoothly: "Cough cough... cough..."Merry lay on the ground, seeing Kaya's figure, and sighed: "M-Miss... I'm glad you're okay!"Kaya was left bewildered by the other's words."...Of course I'm okay. What are you talking about?"After regaining some strength, Merry told the truth."Butler Klahadore! I was injured by him!"Hearing Merry's words, Kaya was somewhat at a loss. Just yesterday, Butler Klahadore had said that if anything were to happen to the young lady, he wouldn't know how to face her late parents.Yet this morning, she saw Merry lying in a pool of blood, saying that all of this was done by him.Kaya subconsciously refused to believe the other's words: "Impossible! You must be joking!"But Merry did not respond; instead, he revealed the other's identity: a pirate!At this moment, Kaya remembered Usopp's words from last night."Then, yesterday... what Usopp said..."Merry also sighed: "Thinking back now, it really was like that! He learned this secret and tried desperately to save us! Yet we...""None of us... were willing to believe him. It's truly ironic. We actually shielded a real villain... while that brave young man, who was running around with the determination to die to save the lives of the villagers..."At this point, Merry stopped talking. He was already tearful. He regretted shooting him yesterday, and he also regretted his own actions.Kaya sat where she was, recalling Usopp's words from yesterday, and tears gradually streamed down her face."What... what have I done to him...""Cough..." Merry struggled to get up and sat leaning against the wall.Seeing this, Kaya shouted: "Someone help! Merry, he..."But Merry stopped Kaya: "Don't shout. Everyone in the house has been on leave since yesterday."Hearing there was no one around, Kaya panicked: "How could this be..."But Merry called out to the panicked Kaya: "Please don't lose your composure! The disaster hasn't happened yet! Please calmly consider what you should do now...""I saw Butler Klahadore go out earlier. If what Usopp said last night was true, then Butler Klahadore must have gone to find his accomplices.""In other words, it's not just us; everyone else in the Village is in danger too.""If Butler Klahadore has his eyes on the property here, then just give it all to him! That kind of thing isn't worth risking one's life to protect!""The cruelest part is... now, you are the only one who can stop Butler Klahadore!"After listening to Merry's words, Kaya wiped away her tears and agreed.Hearing the young lady agree, Merry asked again, as he didn't want to force this frail person in front of him: "Can you do it? Although this is not your responsibility..."Before Merry could finish, Kaya replied firmly: "I know. I know! There are some things I cannot escape from! I will go find Butler Klahadore and talk to him..."Then, Kaya put on her coat alone and headed toward the beach.At this moment, under a big tree, Onion said that the butler had walked toward the beach. His other two friends naturally didn't believe him, but then they saw Miss Kaya arrive.This let them know that something must have happened.At this moment, on the beach, Zoro looked at the ships in the distance: "Do you have any other tricks you haven't used yet?"The henchman lying on the ground panted heavily: "Heh heh, you guys will die..."Before he could finish, he was punched into the ground by Alex, who was standing nearby."Cut the chatter. If you're a dead man, just shut up!"Then Jango raised his arm and shouted: "Get off the ship! Meowban Brothers!"
Chapter 33: The Ninja's BattleJust then, a voice came from the ship, and a thin figure said to his companion,"Oh! The Captain is calling us!""Can't help it. With such a loud noise, it seems there's an incredible expert out there.""So, are we going down?""We'd better go down and take a look!"With that, two figures, one fat and one thin, jumped down from the ship.Jango didn't turn around, but just by hearing the voices, he knew: "Kitten Brothers, you've arrived!"A thin man with long, curled bangs, dressed in black and wearing a pair of black claws, replied to Jango."Did you call us, Captain Jango?"Beside him, a plump man with his chest exposed, wearing a white cape and a pair of white cat claws, said: "We're here!"These two were the Kitten Brothers; the thin one was called Siamese, and the fat one was called Buchi.Seeing that more people had come down, and that their skills were not simple, Nami and Usoppexclaimed in admiration."Amazing! To be able to jump to the ground from such a height! They're really like cats!"Zoro, however, held his sword and stared at them intensely.Jango pointed to the other side and said: "Buchi, Siamese, we must pass through this slope no matter what. But as you can see, there are people blocking the road. Hurry up and get rid of them."Then the two looked at Alex, who was standing in the middle of the road with a scroll on his back, as well as Zoro, who was standing at the entrance of the slope holding three swords with a murderous aura, and Luffy, who was staring straight at them.When Siamese and Buchi saw the two, they waved their hands repeatedly."We... we don't have that kind of ability, right, Buchi!"Buchi also hurriedly replied: "Exactly! Those three guys look very strong!""What? Aren't you the trump cards?""They're trembling with fear!"Seeing the two acting like this, Usopp and Namicomplained from the sidelines.At this moment, the Kitten Brothers started complaining to Jango.Siamese said: "We're just here to watch the ship."Buchi also quickly chimed in: "That's right, we can't help much on this battlefield!"Jango couldn't listen anymore and roared, ordering Siamese to attack.Siamese, being called upon, was shocked: "Huh? Why me?"But Jango urged him on.Unable to take it anymore, Siamese ran over crying: "I get it! I'm going now!""Hey! You guy, go to hell! I'm going to scratch you to death with my claws!"Siamese ran wildly toward Alex while crying, swinging his hands at the same time.But Alex was not bluffed by his performance, so he looked at Zoro and Luffy.Luffy still didn't move, but Zoro got into a stance, looking like he was going to deal with this guy.Siamese rushed toward Alex, wanting to sneak attack him, and at that very moment..."Your opponent isn't me...""It's me!"Alex used the Body Flicker Technique to move away, while Zoro pushed off with his legs and lunged forward, slashing at his opponent with one sword.The opponent had no choice but to block, but his strength was inferior to Zoro's. He couldn't block with one hand and had to use both.Siamese held on while taunting: "Looks like you've got some skill, but you've underestimated me!"Then he pushed his hands to the left, causing Zoroto lose his balance and fall to the left.Seeing this, Zoro knew he had been careless.Siamese took the opportunity to steal the other two swords from Zoro's waist.He then jumped to the side, putting distance between himself and Zoro."Hehe, although because of that pretty boy, you didn't fall for the trap, you still underestimated me!"Seeing that the swords at Zoro's waist were gone, Nami immediately shouted: "Zoro, where are your swords?"Only then did Zoro realize his swords were missing. He looked over and saw that the man was carrying two swords on his back, staring at Zoro. Behind them, Jango covered his hat: "He's using that move..."Buchi, on the side, called out the name of the move: "Money Grabbing."Zoro calmly asked the opponent to return the swords, but he acted as if he hadn't heard, and even threw the swords away.As the two swords were flying in the air, a hand tightly grabbed them, then flung them back to Zoro's side with force."Sheesh, throwing my brother's things around like that... you two really don't give me any face!"It turned out that Alex had suddenly appeared behind Siamese, caught the two swords, and threw them back to Zoro."Damn, two against one? Buchi, attack!"Seeing himself being flanked, Siamese immediately called out to his companion, wanting a two-on-two fight, while he attacked Alex behind him.Alex didn't pay attention to him, quietly watching the fat Buchi jump into the air.Then the opponent shouted: "Cat Kill! Fatal Flying Cat Kick!"Buchi's fat body landed heavily, kicking Alex, and then thick smoke enveloped both of them."Hehe, your partner is going to die!"Facing Siamese's taunt, Zoro remained indifferent, and Luffy also looked disdainful."Ah!" Buchi's scream came from within the thick smoke.Siamese didn't understand why his partner was the one screaming. He wanted to look back, but Zorohad already made his move, holding his three swords in position: "Tiger Hunt!"With just one move, he slashed Siamese, sending him flying.When the smoke cleared, it was revealed that the fat Buchi was under Alex's feet.At this moment, his eyes were rolled back and he was foaming at the mouth, clearly having had his lungs injured by Alex's kick.But the defeat of the Kitten Brothers didn't concern everyone much.Because at this moment, Jango was looking tremblingly behind Luffy.Because there stood a person, a person who shouldn't have been there.Jango stammered to explain the situation: "Ah... no, it's not... there's a reason for this!"The crew members were also terrified, because the person who appeared there was their former boss: "Captain Kuro!"He pushed up his glasses and said."It's been daylight for a long time. No wonder the plan didn't proceed smoothly. Who are these people blocking the way!"Kuro roared, questioning Jango. Although it was questioning, it was more like an insult; could the dignified Black Cat Pirates not even handle this?"I didn't expect you to be blocked by these kids. The Black Cat Pirates are too embarrassing. Jango."Jango explained: "But... you said that day... that even if we let this kid go, nothing would happen..."Hearing Jango's defense, Kuro replied calmly: "Yes, I said that...""But so what if I said that? I think even if this kid came to deal with us, we could easily take him out! But your incompetence is truly beyond my imagination! I don't want to hear your excuses!"At this moment, Siamese, who was still able to speak while lying on the ground, made a sound: "You... you actually called us incompetent! CaptainKuro! I have to argue about this."Usopp, on the side, didn't understand and thought they were having an internal conflict."You were indeed very strong in the past."Jango told Siamese to shut up, but Siamese didn't listen and continued: "But that was three years ago! While you were living in luxury in this Village, we weren't just idling around!""What are you trying to say?" Kuro didn't understand why this person had to say so much."We shouldn't be easily killed by you just because of a small matter like the plan being blocked! Let alone the fact that we..."Just as Siamese was about to get angry, he suddenly passed out. Everyone saw that it was that pretty boy who had interrupted him."I don't know what problems you have between you, and I don't want to care. But Captain, I said I would beat him away, right? Can I make my move now!"Luffy nodded calmly: "Yeah!""Byakugan, activate!" The Byakugan on his left eye instantly opened, and several veins bulged.Then Alex formed hand seals; this was Wind Release: Vacuum Blast.Looking at the attack that suddenly came his way, Kuro didn't understand why the other party attacked, but he wasn't prepared to sit idly by.In an instant, he put on a pair of gloves, where every finger on the gloves had a blade.So that was why he pushed his glasses like that, to prevent the blades from cutting his face. No, wait, he retired three years ago, so logically he shouldn't need that posture.No wonder he hadn't slacked off on training for three years; it seems this guy's strength is very high.Seeing Alex knock out Siamese, Jango on the side breathed a sigh of relief. If he had let Siamese continue talking, they would have been the ones to die.However, thinking that Kuro's strength had declined because he hadn't attacked for three years would be a huge mistake.Once prepared, Kuro instantly arrived behind Alex, but unfortunately, his movements were perceived by Alex.As for the reason, it was because Alex had cast a sensory-type Ninjutsu outside his body.Unfortunately, the opponent was too fast, and he didn't know if this was a move similar to teleportation or space transmission.But fortunately, Jango spoke up in praise and explained the core key to Kuro's move."This is Captain Kuro's Silent Step, a move that allows for rapid movement without making a sound... Even when facing thirty people, he can kill them all without the opponents noticing at all. So, kid, you can't escape from Kuro at all."Before, Alex was still thinking about what kind of move this was; he didn't expect it to be a special footwork.Since that's the case, it's easy to break. Just as Alexwas thinking, he heard a voice from beside him."I don't know who you are, nor do I know why you hate me so much, but if you dare to attack me, then die."The moment the voice disappeared, a sharp claw slashed toward him. It was a success.No, the feeling was wrong. This was Kuro's thought.That's right, what Kuro cut was just a wooden log. This is called the Body Replacement Technique.At this moment, Alex had finished the hand seals behind Kuro: Wind Release: Vacuum Wave.Alex blew a large amount of sharp wind toward the front.These winds cut the road and the canyon in two, but unfortunately, the opponent still dodged it.Now the two fell into an awkward situation. Alex's moves could seriously injure the opponent, but his speed couldn't keep up.And Kuro was just fast, but couldn't cause any damage to Alex."Damn, he's really fast. In that case, Water Release: Great Waterfall Technique!"A large amount of water gathered in front of Alexand then rolled forward.Such a large amount of water didn't cause any damage to the opponent either.Instead, Kuro easily dodged it. As the water level receded, it revealed the battered and broken land."Trying to use the splashing water to hear my footsteps? Too naive."Kuro saw through Alex's idea, but Alex replied calmly: "Hehe, indeed, ordinary people can only think of this. But I am a Ninja. Take this, Kuro, Water Style: Water Wall!"The next second, the accumulated water that had remained in the potholes surged up.Four water walls firmly bound Kuro in place, and he was afraid of an ambush, so he didn't dare to move.Alex seized this opportunity, jumped into the air, and quickly formed hand seals: Fire Release: Ash Pile Burning.A large amount of smoke covered the slope, and then an explosion occurred within the smoke."Wah!" Kuro was injured by this move."Damn brat, always bringing out this kind of stuff. Who on earth are you!""I, I am a pirate, and at the same time, I am also a Ninja!"
Chapter 34: The Strong KayaLuffy and Usopp cheered loudly on the slope as they saw Alex's display. "Ninja! Ninja!..."However, the other pirates exclaimed in shock, "What happened? How could someone actually injure Captain Kuro!"Kuro rubbed his burned arm and said disdainfully, "Hmph, a Ninja? Just someone who ate a Devil Fruit. Whatever, watch how I finish you off."After saying this, Kuro began to sway his body.Seeing this, Jango was so shocked he couldn't speak, for this was Kuro's ultimate technique—the same move he used to silently eliminate thirty assassins.Unfortunately, before Kuro could use it, he found himself unable to move. His shadow had been firmly bound to the shadow of that pretty boy who called himself a Ninja."Hehe, how could I not keep attacking? Chatting with you earlier was just to make you lower your guard. Now that your shadow is connected to my clone's shadow, this is the Ninja Art: Shadow Imitation Jutsu."After confirming he had caught his opponent, Alexused the Multi-Size Technique to enlarge his left arm. The massive arm grabbed him, squeezed tight, and then violently threw him behind Luffy.Just as he was about to be flung away, a girl's voice rang out. "Butler Klahadore! That's enough!"It was Kaya who had arrived. She was still somewhat shocked by the scene before her; in her mind, she had expected Usopp and the boys to be lying on the ground, covered in blood. But now, it was Butler Klahadore who was caught, spitting blood with many wounds on his body.Although these boys were strong, they were still pirates, so Kaya decided to proceed according to plan—she couldn't let anyone else get hurt because of her."Kaya, why did you come here?!" Usopp was both confused and surprised; he didn't understand what she was doing here.Jango also recognized that this young lady was their target. "Hey, isn't that the lady from the mansion? That's the ultimate goal of our plan!"The pirates on the side, feeling like victory was at hand, began to discuss, "Then there's no need to enter the Village, right?" "Indeed, we can just kill that woman here..."But at this moment, Kuro didn't look like he was caught at all; instead, he sighed, "How unexpected... Miss, why have you come here?"Alex was unsure if the opponent had a backup plan, so he forcefully threw him toward a nearby cliff, intending to dash him to death.However, the hypnotist began his work. "One... Two... Jango!"This time, the subject of the hypnosis was Kuro. The immense power amplified by the hypnosis allowed him to instantly break free from the Shadow Possession Jutsu, while simultaneously destroying the Shadow Clone.Seeing the opponent escape, Alex was about to pursue, but was stopped by Luffy. Understanding Luffy's intention, Alex stayed put.Having escaped, Kuro wiped the blood from the corner of his mouth and walked up to Kaya. Kayarecounted what had happened. "Merry told me everything."Hearing this, Kuro was somewhat shocked. Had his skills really weakened to the point where he couldn't even kill one person? Yet his tone remained unchanged, "Oh... so that man is still alive? I thought I had already killed him!"Kaya looked at the man before her. She couldn't believe this was Butler Klahadore—no, rather, this was his true face.Having realized this, Kaya looked at Usopp, "Usopp, I'm sorry! Perhaps you won't forgive me, but... I truly couldn't believe at the time that Butler Klahadorewas a pirate."Seeing Kaya still going on about useless things, Usopp couldn't help but shout, "Stop saying these things! Why did you come here? Didn't I tell you to run away! They want your life!"Kaya looked at the panting Usopp. Although he wasn't injured, he was still fighting, wasn't he? "Aren't you fighting too? Even though we treated you with such a terrible attitude... haven't you still been fighting until now!""I told you, I am a bra—brave warrior of the sea..." Before Usopp could finish, Kaya, unable to bear looking at him, interrupted him by shouting at Kuro. "Butler Klahadore! If you want my fortune, I will give it all to you! So, please, leave this Village!"Kuro calmly pushed up his glasses and revealed his plan. "Miss, you misunderstand. I don't just want money; I also need stability. I spent three years here earning the trust of the villagers. That felt very comfortable. Therefore, only by obtaining your fortune and stability can this plan be considered a success. Thus, the pirates accidentally invading the Village, and you leaving a suicide note before dying, is necessary!"Seeing Kaya standing still and unmoved, still shouting at him to leave—after all, this Kuro was not the butler he knew—Usopp watched in shock. The next second, Kaya's action shocked everyone. For at this moment, Kaya picked up a pistol, pointed it at Kuro, and told him to leave the Village.Facing the threat of the pistol, Kuro sighed unhurriedly. "So... in these three years, you have also become stronger..."Afterward, Kuro recounted the past three years, from when Kaya's parents fell ill to before she herself became sick. The two of them taking boats together, going shopping in town, caring for her when she had a fever, etc. "I racked my brain taking care of you, this pampered young lady who spent all day daydreaming. I endured all of this just so that... I could kill you today!"Kuro's last sentence dealt a significant blow to Kaya. Even if she had become stronger, it was only in comparison to her former self, while Kuro was a long-renowned pirate. Kaya fearfully let go of the gun in her hand.Standing by, Usopp heard the man's words, sprinted over, and raised his fist to strike Kuro. Seeing Usoppappear made Kaya feel at ease, while Kuroremembered the time the other had punched him. "Usopp, come to think of it... you and I still have a score to settle regarding a punch."After saying this, Kuro raised his hands and sent Usopp flying. Seeing Usopp bleeding and flying backward, Kuro felt satisfied. "You once punched me quite hard, didn't you."Just then, a fist struck toward Kuro, knocking him to the ground. At this moment, Luffy's voice came, "If you dislike getting hit so much, I'll just hit you a hundred times." After Kuro was knocked flying."The chance is here!" Three voices came from the woods. "The Usopp Pirates are here!" "Prepare to die, Butler!" "Butler, you bastard!"At the same time, three figures leaped out from the woods, holding a shovel, a frying pan, and a baseball bat. Then they used these as weapons to strike hard at Kuro's face.Seeing this scene, not only were the Black Cat Pirates stunned, but even Usopp stood on the side shouting for them to go back. However, the three children seemed not to hear, as they held their shovels high while shouting and striking at Kuro. "Punish you! Punish you!" "You pirate who disturbs the peace of the Village!" "Go to hell, you bastard!"After finishing, the three children panted and said, "Alright, we'll let you off just like this."Zoro and Alex stood by, wondering why they had come, while Luffy stared intently at the opponent. Nami began to worry about the safety of the three children.Seeing that they had already dealt with the greatest enemy, they looked and saw Usopp covered in wounds. "Captain really was fighting! Why didn't you tell us? You're too distant! Wrong! It's too distant!"The three of them chimed in, berating Usopp for not including them. "Alright, alright, whatever, just leave here quickly! Run away!"Usopp had seen the opponent's strength and naturally knew that these injuries were of no consequence to Kuro. "Captain, we won't!" "Yes! We want to fight too!" "Running away is not what the Usopp Pirates do!"As soon as they finished speaking, Kuro stood up and pushed up his glasses, but the glasses shattered. Seeing Kuro get up, the three children were stunned in place.Nami, however, immediately grabbed the three of them and ran toward Luffy. Kuro seemed not to see Nami's movement; he looked at Usopp, raised his leg to kick, but was blocked by Luffy who was standing by.Seeing that the person blocking him was Luffy, Kuroasked, "It hurts a little. You and that pretty boy over there both have strange moves. It seems you also possess the power of a Devil Fruit.""No, mine is a Ninja ability, not the power of a Devil Fruit." "That's right, I ate the Gum-Gum Fruit, I am a rubber human."Alex retorted that he hadn't eaten a fruit, but none of that mattered now; he prepared to kill both of them. At the same time, Kuro looked behind at Kayaand said to Jango."Jango! I'm going to kill those two brats! Miss Kayais left to you. Follow the plan: after she writes the suicide note, kill her. Also, those three ants are really an eyesore.""Yes, sir!" "Haha, you think you can kill the two of us? Don't make me laugh. Luffy, this guy's name is..."Hearing that the opponent wanted to deal with him and Luffy, Alex couldn't help but burst into laughter. Although his words were arrogant, his hands were secretly forming hand seals. But unfortunately, he was stopped by Luffy."Alex, leave that hypnotist freak to you, I'll handle this one!" "Alright, if that's the case."Alex came before Jango and blocked his path. "You shall not pass!" As for the other pirate minions, Alexdidn't care; after all, he had to leave some for Zoroand the others to get some exercise.Alex didn't hold back either; with one move of Earth Release: Swamp of the Underworld, he bound Jango, making him unable to move.Seeing his most crucial Chess being locked up by the opponent, Kuro could no longer hold back and prepared to use Silent Step to attack Alex.Unfortunately, Luffy, who was on the side, was staring intently at him: "How could I let you leave my sight?"Subsequently, Luffy threw a punch, but the opponent dodged it; then came another punch, which Kuro barely dodged, forcing him to face Luffyhead-on."Compared to your crew, you don't seem very strong." Luffy didn't deny it: "Ah, Alex is the strongest among us. If he went, he could kill you in a few moves. But that's not the adventure I want, so Kuro, I will kill you here.""I don't understand..." Kuro didn't understand how someone like him, who talked about adventure all day, became a pirate. But that didn't matter; as long as he killed those three, it would be enough.
this moment, the situation on the beach began to reach a stalemate.Kuro revealed his true purpose: to kill the villagers and have Jango hypnotize the young lady into writing a will, thereby obtaining a large inheritance.However, what should have gone smoothly was actually disrupted by a group of pirates who suddenly appeared.And the most crucial person, Jango, was currently buried in the ground."Forget it, no matter who you are, watch as I kill you all. Die!" Kuro used his Silent Step to attack Luffy."I won't die!" Luffy stretched his arms and grabbed Kuro's arms.He jumped into the air, wanting to use the elasticity to kick Kuro.Kuro seized the opportunity and gave a hard tug, neutralizing Luffy's offensive.And he easily flung him aside.Luffy was flung away, but used the momentum to stretch his leg low and whip it toward Kuro. "Gum-Gum, Gum-Gum, Whip!"Seeing the attack, Kuro jumped up and dodged it."It's not over yet, Gum-Gum, Gum-Gum, Pistol!"Dodging the whip kick and seeing the fist in front of him, Kuro instantly vanished from the spot.Then, Kuro appeared on Luffy's arm, placing his hands on his waist: "I've been waiting long enough to yawn..."This meant he was complaining that Luffy's attacks were too slow.Then he started running along Luffy's arm; Luffysaw this and wanted to counterattack but couldn't move.After all, the opponent's speed was too fast. The next second, Kuro kicked Luffy in the face, then slashed at Luffy's face with both hands.Alex was a bit puzzled; why did these people want to slash Luffy's face?Luffy looked at his slashed corner of his mouth and became unhappy. After all, his mouth was his most important thing; if his mouth was broken, how would he eat?Seeing that even such a strong Luffy was sent flying, a group of minions cheered loudly from the sidelines: "Long live Captain Kuro!"Kuro stopped the group of pirates: "Do not use that name to call me! Don't you still understand? The final goal of this plan is... to sever my connection with the name Captain Kuro! I am tired... Every time I formulate a plan, I have to exhaust my efforts to account for you simple-minded fools who only know how to kill and fight."As my fame grew, the World Government's lackeys and Bounty Hunterss pursued me relentlessly, which made me very unhappy... So, on that day three years ago, I decided to kill myself.""The rest is just to make today's plan a complete success. My ultimate goal is to obtain peace and money. So, kid, you need to know... I will absolutely not let a plan that has been going on for three years fail. My plan will absolutely not go wrong!"After saying this, Kuro extended his sharp claws and attacked Luffy.Luffy picked up a large Rock at his feet and lifted it with force.Kuro's right-hand claw sank deep into the Rock.Seeing this, he also praised Luffy: "It seems you can do more than just stretch!"Luffy held the Rock and swung it hard to the side, snapping the claw in one go."Not bad, in order to become a pirate, I often exercise my body."The henchmen were shocked to see Kuro's cat claw break!Luffy didn't stop, taking advantage of the opponent's distraction to continue attacking.He swung the Rock and smashed it hard into the opponent's face."You're tired? Afraid of becoming famous on the sea. How can you be a pirate! Speaking of dreams, my dream is much bigger than yours!"Afterward, Luffy threw away the Rock, looked at the rising Kuro, and said: "That weird sword of yours, there are only five left now."Kuro stood up and clicked his tongue.However, the group of henchmen only dared to shout and cheer from the sidelines. As for why they didn't go up, it was because Zoro and Alex were staring at them intently.And Nami brought Usopp, Kaya, and the three kids over to Alex and Zoro's side, as this place was the safest relative to the entire battlefield."Captain Kuro! You still have one cat claw! Hurry up and kill him!""Idiot, you can't call him Captain Kuro right now!""That's right, and in the village, he's called Klahadore or something.""Then let's call him Mr. Klahadore!""Finish him off, Mr. Klahadore!"Kuro stood up straight: "Shut up, all of you! Later, I will kill you all... of course, Jango is no exception..."Hearing Kuro's words, the minions were shocked and stood frozen; they didn't understand why Kurowould do this.Jango also had a grave expression; although he had a feeling, he didn't expect it to be true.On the contrary, Alex had an "as expected" look on his face. After all, he had said he wanted to sever ties with the past and Captain Kuro, meaning that not even the slightest thing that could expose his identity could be left behind.Hearing Kuro's words, the group of pirates still didn't believe what the other party said was true."Don't... don't joke, Captain Kuro!""It's not too late for us to go attack the village now!"Hearing their words, Jango cursed: "Don't be stupid, what he said is the truth."Kuro also kindly explained."That's right, Jango is very correct. You don't need to worry about this plan. As long as your corpses are there, I can clear my name. Besides, I never intended to let you leave the village alive. If people who know my whereabouts are still alive... it will be very difficult for me."Hearing this, how could the pirates not understand that they had been played?"What? Does this mean that when you first formulated this plan, you were prepared to kill us!"Kuro admitted it completely: "That's right, starting from three years ago—when I was still CaptainKuro... all of this was the plan!"Hearing this, Luffy couldn't help but retort: "You're all idiots! What a pathetic pirate crew!"Kuro was dismissive of this: "Hmph... pathetic? A so-called pirate crew is nothing more than a gathering of stray dogs abandoned by the world! Without a plan, what can those guys do? No matter who it is, they just need to obediently follow my plan! Crew members are the Captain's loyal Chess. The life and death of subordinates are all decided by me. Even if there is a cliff ahead, you must rush forward according to my plan! You just need to die for my plan! This is the way of existence for this pirate ship! You passing brat, stop being so self-righteous!""Even if you are a Captain, even if you have a hundred subordinates, you are not as good as Usopp!"And this was Luffy's response to Kuro.Hearing Luffy's words, Kuro was so angry he laughed and asked: "What? You say I am not as good as the Captain in a pirate game?"Luffy nodded and said yes!"Hahaha! What you say is really interesting! Don't think that just because you broke the weapon on one of my hands that you are amazing. You say I am not as good, how am I not as good as him!" As soon as he finished speaking, Kuro vanished from the spot."It's the measure of a man!"After Luffy finished speaking, he swung his fist toward the direction where Kuro was.Kuro was also shocked; he didn't expect that someone could keep up with his Silent Step."You don't know what a real pirate is at all!"This punch sent Kuro flying.Kuro, rising from the Rocks, held his head: "I have been insulted. Since you want to know what a real pirate is so much, then I will tell you about the horror of a real pirate... A terrifying pirate who has wandered between life and death several times..."Kuro stood in place and began to sway his body gently. This move was intended to deal with Alex, but he didn't expect to be caught by the other party and couldn't use it.This time, he used it.Jango also spoke up from the side about what this move was."This stance, he wants to use Shakushi!"The pirates on the side also became afraid. They knew the power of Shakushi and begged for mercy, but unfortunately, Kuro had originally intended to kill them, and the entire plan had been heard by Jango, and the hypnosis plan for Kaya had also been canceled.In such a situation, he could only kill them and then reconsider.Luffy felt puzzled seeing everyone so nervous; wasn't Kuro just swaying back and forth?Shakushi! After Kuro shouted the move, his figure vanished instantly.At this moment, the entire battlefield fell into an eerie silence.Suddenly, a scratch appeared on a pirate's waist. Alex and Zoro turned to look and confirmed that it was the injury caused by those cat claws.But how could he have slashed here, and this speed was a bit too fast.Then, the next second, a scratch appeared on Luffy's left side."Hey, Hypnotist, what's going on with this move of Kuro's!"Alex asked Jango, who was tied up on the side, to see if he knew what was going on.Jango slowly explained the effect of the move: "This is Kuro's move, Shakushi. It is a move launched using the speed of Silent Step. Because the speed is too fast, he cannot see everything in front of him, so he will attack indiscriminately."After knowing the effect of the move, Alex created several clones to stand beside Zoro, Usopp, and the others, and cast Water Style: Water Wall to block.As for those pirates, whether they die or not, it's not his business; they are enemies anyway, so it doesn't matter.At this moment, Kuro was scratching people everywhere; one pirate fell to the ground, and then a Rock appeared with a knife mark.The screams of the pirates reached Luffy's ears.Looking at the scene before him, Luffy became angry and shouted: "Come out, Butler... What do you take your companions' lives for!"Nami heard Luffy so angry; it was the first time she had seen a pirate so angry, and the reason for the anger was because of his companions."Come out, Butler!"Luffy's voice gave Kuro a signal.The next moment, dense scratches appeared around Luffy.Obviously, these were Kuro's attacks.But Luffy didn't pay attention to them; at this moment, he was fully focused on feeling the situation of his body.Sure enough, his waist was scratched, and then Luffy grabbed the other party's clothes, followed by a shoulder throw."Found you!"Kuro got up from the ground and saw the scratches on Luffy's body: "Bastard... Why won't you just die obediently! Look! It's all because of the evil you've done! My cute subordinates are groaning in pain because they couldn't die quickly!"Sure enough, those pirates were groaning on the ground.Alex, unable to stand it, used Lightning Release: Earth Flash to knock them all unconscious, saving them from wailing and howling here and being annoying."What, you seem to have something to say?"Kuro saw that Luffy seemed to have something to say.Luffy nodded: "A pirate like you, I will definitely not be!"
Chapter 36: Kuro's DefeatHearing Luffy's words, Kuro couldn't help but find it amusing: "It's not that I won't do it! It's that you can't! Because! You will die here..."Then, Kuro assumed that stance again, wanting to continue unleashing Shakushi.But how could Luffy let him have his way? He immediately used his Gum-Gum limbs to bind the opponent's hands and feet, rendering him unable to move."Dream on! Go ahead and run!"Looking at Luffy on top of him, Kuro shouted: "Damn it, let me go!"But Luffy acted as if he hadn't heard: "It seems your plan, which you've plotted for three years, is going to fail!""What?"Then, Luffy slammed his head into the opponent's head.Then, Luffy stretched his head backward and smiled at Alex and the others."Hehe, Gum-Gum, Gum-Gum..."Kuro, however, looked completely disbelieving and kept muttering to himself: "My plan... My plan cannot possibly have any errors!""Thud!" Luffy's head slammed fiercely into Kuro's head.This move knocked Kuro unconscious.In his final moments of consciousness, Kuro asked a final question."You actually defeated me! Who exactly are you?""Monkey D. Luffy! I won't lose to a pirate who fled the sea and hid his name! A pirate only abandons his name when he dies! I will make you remember my name for your whole life! I am the man who will become the Pirate King!"Then, Luffy lifted Kuro, and Alex also released Jango.Afterwards, Luffy threw Kuro toward Jango."Take him and the other pirates and get lost! You are not allowed to come back here again!"Looking at the people all over the ground, his dead brothers, and the unconscious Kuro lying on the side, Jango recalled the words that were just spoken.In the end, Jango moved the pirates onto the ship one by one, then hypnotized a few of them to wake them up, and set sail to leave this place.Seeing that things were over, Alex came to Luffy's side and took out a blood-replenishing pill to feed him.After all, those few hits from Kuro had caused him significant damage.Zoro also walked over carrying Usopp on his back, and the three children came before Usopp.Nami helped Kaya sit down opposite Usopp, as they surely had a lot to say to each other.As for Luffy, his complexion had recovered quite a bit after eating the blood-replenishing pill."Alex, I'm hungry, I want to eat meat!""And me, I want to drink too!"Luffy and Zoro wanted to eat right after finishing the battle, and Alex had no choice but to take out two portions of food and a bottle of liquor and place them in front of the two.On Usopp's side, he told the three children: "Can you not tell anyone about what happened here just now?"The three of them immediately shouted after hearing this: "Why? Why can't we tell?""Yeah! We fought to protect the Village!""Everyone will definitely look at the Captain with new eyes!""You are the hero of the Village!"Even Kaya was asking Usopp: "Usopp, you need to clear up everyone's misunderstanding of you!""Regardless of whether there's a misunderstanding or not, everyone will still treat me as that kid who loves to brag.There's no need to specifically tell everyone about what happened; it would only cause panic.If not for today's situation, pirates wouldn't attack such a remote little Village.And it is precisely because of this that the villagers can live in peace.You should just act as if nothing happened at all!Nothing happened; everything was a lie!"Kaya looked at the calm Usopp and softly whispered his name."Of course, I won't force you!"After hearing Usopp's words, the three children immediately decided to keep this news a secret.Then Usopp turned to look at Kaya: "Kaya, do you feel wronged..."Kaya looked at the person in front of her and shook her head: "No..."At this time, the residents of the Village noticed it was already seven o'clock, but they hadn't heard Usopp's lies, and they couldn't help but feel unaccustomed to it."Hmm! It's seven o'clock!""Ah, I really overslept! Strange, why didn't Usoppcome to brag today?"Some villagers felt that without Usopp's voice, they didn't even have the energy to do things.Everyone was also confused as to why Usopphadn't come by this time.At this time, the three children who had made arrangements with Usopp had each returned home."Piiman! You actually got your clothes dirty first thing in the morning! Go wash them yourself!"Piiman held his head and begged for mercy: "Wah! I know, Mama!" and left the house."Carrot, have you seen my frying pan? Without the pan, I can't make fried eggs!"Hearing his mother's question, Carrot hid the frying pan behind his back and said awkwardly: "Ah... ah... I'll just eat raw eggs! I like eating raw eggs!""Did you break your glasses again? Onion?"Onion covered his head and began to apologize.At this moment, on the battlefield, Usopp stood on the slope and thanked Luffy and his group for their help."Thank you! Thanks to your help! If it weren't for you, this Village wouldn't have been saved!""That's not right. We said before, we didn't come out of pity for you. If you had given up yourself, we would have left too.""Exactly, if you didn't care about anything, I wouldn't be bothered to help either!"Luffy nodded while eating.Nami was on the verge of tears, as she had forgotten to go onto their ship to collect the treasure.After thanking them, Usopp stated his goal for the future: "After experiencing this, I have finally made up my mind..."At this time, Kaya had already returned to the mansion, and while treating Merry's wounds, she began to recount what had happened.Upon hearing that they shouldn't talk about this, Merry couldn't help it."Such a big thing, and we're to act as if it didn't happen?"Kaya asked while bandaging him: "Are you unwilling?"Merry shook his head: "...No... It's just that the young man is too kind.He said this was all for the good of the villagers, right? Miss, do you really think this is okay?""As long as Usopp says it's okay, I won't object."Hearing the young lady's words, Merry also understood her thoughts."...I understand, I will also keep silent."Suddenly, Kaya thought of something."Merry! There is one more thing I need to ask of you."In an open space, Usopp, having treated his wounds, looked at the three people in front of him: Piiman, Carrot, and Onion.This time it was a meeting of the Usopp Pirates."Captain Usopp, what do you need us for!""Ah, you're here!" Hearing the voices behind him, Usopp turned to look at the three."You fought very bravely; even when facing the Black Cat Pirates, you didn't flinch.It was truly a battle worthy of the name Usopp Pirates!As your Captain, I am very proud.This is the biggest and most successful battle for the Usopp Pirates since we were established five years ago, when you were four years old!Perhaps you will feel this is very sudden...I have decided to set sail alone!I want to become a true pirate!"Usopp smiled as he looked at the three in front of him.The three were shocked to hear everything Usoppwas telling them."Captain..."The three didn't know if this was the truth or a lie from Usopp, so they called out to him softly, but their voices were too low for him to hear."After meeting those people, I made up my mind! I want to leave this Village!There is only one reason: the pirate flag is calling me!"Hearing this, the three realized that Captain Usoppwas telling the truth this time.Thinking that they wouldn't be able to see him in the future, the three shouted anxiously."Captain! This isn't true, right? You must be lying!""This is too sudden! Don't you love this Village?""What will happen to the Usopp Pirates in the future?"Usopp didn't answer their questions, but turned around and said calmly."Thank you for your loyalty all this time!I plan to leave quietly; please bid farewell to the villagers on my behalf.""No..." "We don't want that!" "Captain, don't go!"The three were certain that Usopp would leave, and unable to bear the pain of separation, they began to cry loudly.But Usopp continued to reminisce about the past on his own."Do you remember this place? This is where we met."At this moment, Usopp recounted the scene of meeting them for the first time, and the first time he showed his slingshot skills.Piiman shouted from the side: "We don't want to reminisce about the past!"Apparently, when the reminiscence ended, it would be time for the Captain to leave.The more Usopp spoke, the more his eyes moistened, but he had to hold it back. This was a farewell between men, and there was no need for so many tears."We have been through so many things!Oh right, tell me about your dreams!"Usopp looked at the three and asked about their dreams."Run a tavern!" "Become an excellent carpenter!" "Become a novelist!"Carrot, Piiman, and Onion each stated their dreams.They knew this would be the final farewell with their Captain.At this moment, Usopp's tears were almost unstoppable, but he was still holding them back."Don't give up on your dreams easily! Let's all make a vow here! To realize your dreams, persist to the end!Today! The Usopp Pirates!Are officially disbanded!"After Usopp finished this sentence, all four of them burst into tears on the spot.In the restaurant, Luffy, Alex, Zoro, and Nami were tasting delicious food.Although they had eaten some meat, the amount was too small to fill them up.That's why they came to the restaurant to eat their fill.Suddenly, Luffy seemed to be choking, and he reached into his throat.Not long after, a small piece of fish bone was taken out from his throat."Whew! Got it out!"Luffy looked at the fish bone that had been stuck in his throat and exclaimed.Zoro, on the other hand, said seriously: "That's not good. It must be because you haven't trained your throat properly that you got choked by a fish bone.""That's not it, Zoro. Can you even train your throat? By singing?" Alex spat out a fish bone and retorted to Zoro's words.Nami, on the other hand, held up the entire fish skeleton and began to explain to Zoro."You two... Normal people, after eating fish, leave behind a fish skeleton like this. Look, Alex left his."Sure enough, on the whole dining table, besides Nami, only Alex's plate had the picked-out fish bones and spines.But Luffy and Zoro seemed not to have heard."Full, full, time to go." "Yeah~ Chew!"Luffy seemed to have really followed Zoro's suggestion, putting the fish bone that had been stuck in his throat back into his mouth and chewing on it."Then I'll go pay the bill. I'll also buy some supplies while I'm at it. Meat and liquor go without saying, and some medicine needs to be stocked up too, after all, the battles ahead will only get more intense."Alex got up from the table and headed to the counter to pay.
Chapter 37: going merryNot long after Alex sat down upon returning from settling the payment, the restaurant's doorbell rang."So you are here!"It turned out to be Miss Kaya, who had come alone."Ah, hello, Miss!" Luffy waved to greet Kaya.Nami, concerned about her health, quickly asked."Don't you need to lie in bed anymore?""Yes! My illness over the past year was all because I couldn't handle the blow of losing my parents and felt depressed... Usopp gave me so much encouragement, I won't be depressed anymore."Kaya indicated that her illness had already improved."By the way, don't you... no, do you... need a ship?" Although she was better, her body hadn't fully recovered yet.Hearing the word "ship," Luffy's eyes widened. After all, their purpose in coming here was to find a new ship and then enter the Grand Line.He originally thought there was no hope, but things had taken a turn for the better.Then, Luffy and the others followed Kaya to the seaside, where Merry was already waiting for their arrival. At the same time, a sailing ship was docked there.Meanwhile, Usopp returned home and began packing his belongings.After finishing packing, a tired Usopp collapsed onto the bed, panting heavily. Beside him lay a round, meter-long duffel bag."Whew... it's all packed. Time to say goodbye to this home!"Then, Usopp put the bag on his back and walked toward the door, but the bag was too big, blocking his way."What! Damn it! Why can't I get out? Push... and I finally made up my mind this time..."Perhaps due to years of disrepair, or maybe because he used too much force, Usopp ripped a huge hole in the wall by the door.He tumbled out along with it, only stopping after crashing into a large tree.The wound on his head reopened from the impact, bleeding, and his body throbbed with pain.At the same time, some of the items in his bag spilled out."Ouch... Hehe, it's nothing. This is the overture to my future great adventures... just as I wished."Usopp said, while hurriedly stuffing things back into the bag.On Luffy's side, upon seeing the ship, everyone looked on with joy.Nami immediately recognized the type of ship as a caravel.The bow was shaped like a sheep's head, and there was a cannon on the bow and on each side. The ship wasn't very large, but it was just right for Luffy.At this moment, Merry stood below the ship to introduce it to everyone."Sorry to keep you waiting. Although the style is a bit old, I designed this ship. It is a caravel with a lateen sail on the mizzenmast and a central rudder at the stern. I have named it the going merry."Then, Merry came before Luffy and sighed with emotion as he looked at the four people in front of him."Are you the ones who, together with Usopp, repelled the Black Cat Pirates? I thought you would all be quite burly..."Luffy didn't mind and continued to ask Kaya."Are you really giving this ship to us?""Yes, please take it and use it!" Kaya nodded from the side.Merry came to Luffy's side and began to explain the specific operation procedures of the ship and the situation of the facilities inside."Now, let me introduce the specific usage of the movable locks. First, regarding how to use the mixed sails to adjust the sailing speed..."This series of technical terms left Luffy confused.Nami, standing to the side, looked at Luffyspeechlessly, then walked up to Merry."Ah! No, no, you'd better tell me how to operate the ship!"Seeing this, Luffy escaped the scene and began to admire it again: "What a great ship."Alex also nodded in agreement from the side.Kaya came over to tell Luffy: "The things needed for going to sea have already been prepared and are all piled on the ship.""Thank you! You are really acting arbitrarily!" Hearing Luffy misuse the idiom to express his thanks, Zorocomplained from the side."It should be 'thoughtful'."At this moment, the group heard a scream coming from the distance."Waaaaah! Stop it!"Everyone looked closely and realized it was Usopp, carrying a big bag of things, rolling down from the slope."What is that guy doing?""Anyway, let's stop him first, otherwise he'll crash into the ship."Luffy and Zoro looked at the rolling Usopp, not quite understanding him, but they decided to help him stop.If for no other reason, they were afraid he would crash into the ship and make a big hole.Usopp rolled faster and faster. Luffy and Zoro raised their feet, and Usopp's face hit the soles of their shoes, which finally brought him to a stop."Tha... thank you..." The stopped Usopp thanked the two for saving him; otherwise, if he had kept rolling like that, he definitely would have fallen into the sea."You're welcome." "It's nothing."Seeing Usopp's state, Kaya asked him: "You are still going to sea! Usopp..."Clearly, Miss Kaya still had many things she hadn't said to him."Yes, before my determination wavers, I must set sail. Don't hold me back.""I won't. I had a premonition about this long ago. Although saying that, I still feel quite lonely."Usopp smiled and looked at Kaya: "Next time I come back, I will tell you adventure stories even more unbelievable than my lies.""Yes! I'll wait for you!" Then Kaya watched as Usoppwent to the small boat on the side."Take care, you too. We'll meet again." Usoppwaved goodbye to Luffy and the others."Why?" Luffy was quite confused as to why Usoppwas saying goodbye to them."Why, you ask? You are really heartless. I am a pirate from now on, too; we will surely meet on the sea..."Before he could finish, Alex spoke up: "Why are you leaving? Why not come with us?"Zoro said directly: "What are you still rambling about? Get on the ship!"Usopp stood there, not understanding what they meant.Until Luffy said: "Aren't we already partners?"Hearing this, Usopp was stunned. He hadn't expected them to really treat him as a partner.A happy Usopp shouted: "The... the Captain is me, right?"Luffy, at the stern, scolded: "What nonsense are you talking about! I am the Captain!"Just like that, Luffy and his group, with Usopp, sailed off into the distance.On the beach, the members of the former Usopp Pirates—Carrot, Piiman, and Onion—watched the disappearing silhouette of the ship and began to discuss."...The Captain is gone...""Yeah, but as long as he is with those people, I can rest easy!""Yeah! I've never seen such amazing people before!""...There's no help for it; he said long ago that he wanted to be a pirate!""The villagers will definitely be sad when they find out.""This is too sudden! Because the Captain was always the one making the Village so lively...""I have an idea..."The three little friends decided to inherit the Captain's will, so they ran into the Village and shouted, "Pirates are coming!"Likewise, Kaya, through Merry's account, learned why Usopp was obsessed with lying; it turned out it was to try and make his mother feel better."Perhaps it was because of loneliness. After his mother passed away, he still kept shouting. He was hoping for the pirate ship his father was on to appear on the shore and take him to sea. The villagers all say that his lies are mixed with strong feelings. For you, who also lost your parents, he couldn't just sit by and watch."Hearing this, Kaya wiped the tears from the corners of her eyes."So please be stronger in the future to repay everything he has done..."After wiping away her tears, Kaya showed a happy smile on her face and looked into the distance."Merry, I...""Do you have any instructions? Miss.""I want to be a doctor.""Hehe... You have set a great dream for yourself."At this moment on the sea, on the going merry, Alex, Luffy, Zoro, Usopp, and Nami all raised their glasses. "To the new ship and new partners! Cheers!"As the waves lapped against the bottom of the ship, Alex began his new experiment.He realized his dynamic vision was too weak; if it weren't for his sensory-type Ninjutsu, he probably would have been ambushed by Kuro during their battle.So he was now facing two choices: one was to enhance his own defenses, and the second was to strengthen his dynamic vision.Alex decisively chose the second; after all, something like the Sharingan should have been brought out long ago.For this reason, he instructed everyone not to disturb him for any reason."Okay, leave this matter to me!"Nami looked at the large bag of gold coins Alex had brought out, her eyes shining as she spoke."Alright, Nami, you don't need to be too nervous; just watch and make sure Luffy and Usopp don't disturb me, that's all."Hearing Alex's words, Luffy and Usopp immediately expressed their dissatisfaction; after all, this was a Ninja.Earlier, after Usopp boarded the ship and started talking with everyone, he learned that Luffy had eaten a Devil Fruit, Zoro was a Three Sword Styleswordsman, and Nami was a thief.As for Alex, upon hearing that he was a Ninja, he had been clamoring to see Ninjutsu.Alex performed two Fire Release Ninjutsu, which really opened Usopp's eyes.So when he heard that he was going to complete a very cool Ninjutsu next, he wanted to see it.That is why the above situation happened.With the support of money, Nami loyally watched over the three of them, not letting them get close to Alex.Luffy didn't mind and came to the side to start drawing a pirate flag."It's done! The pirate flag!"Luffy picked up the pirate flag and showed it to everyone.On the black cloth, a distorted skull was pierced by two bones, and the straw hat was also twisted and crooked."Hahaha, I thought about it for a long time and decided to use this as our mark."The three of them expressed their confusion together: "O... our..."Usopp's jaw dropped at this painting: "One look at this guy and you know he has no artistic talent."Nami stroked her chin and commented: "No... from a certain perspective, it might very well be art.""A pirate flag should be a symbol of death... which means terror..." Zoro tried hard to see the merits in this flag, but in vain.Luffy was still there holding up the flag and asking everyone what they thought.Usopp couldn't stand it: "Luffy, your drawing is terrible! Let me draw it!"Then, Usopp quickly redrew a pirate flag in a few strokes.It's just that no matter how you look at this flag, it seems to be showing off his ambition.Because the nose of the skull on the flag had turned into a long nose, one of the bones behind it had turned into a long slingshot, and the hat had even turned into a patterned cap.Luffy and Zoro immediately hit him on the head: "The pattern is completely different!"