Chapter 78: Steroid"Oh, and why is that?"At this moment, Zoro did not need to worry about time at all. After all, it was their Captain who was injured, so he just needed to defeat his opponent before that perverted cook."Hehehe, take this! Octopus Triple Bare-Handed Blade Catch!"Hatchan lined up his three pairs of arms.Seeing this, Zoro didn't even want to fight him anymore; it felt too embarrassing.It was like having a weapon named 'Mantis Shrimp'; even though it was embarrassing to use, getting defeated by such a weapon would be even more embarrassing."That's enough!"Zoro swung his blade straight down the middle. In truth, subconsciously, he also wanted to try out that move.Seeing Zoro swing his blade, Hatchan immediately attempted to parry."Ha! Ha! Ha!"Unfortunately, his speed was too slow. Zoro had already swung his blade down by the time he reacted.Hatchan then turned around, clutched the part where he had been cut, and shouted."Ah, that hurts!""Bastard, are you making a fool of me?! Watch me cut you down!""Bastard, how dare you say I'm playing around! Look at my... Octopus Hatchan, Suction Cups..."Zoro swung his blade, but failed to hit Hatchan."Oh, hiding up there? Why aren't you thinking about saving your Captain instead of stalling for time here?""Nonsense! That's not it! I'm getting serious now, Roronoa!"Hatchan jumped down from the pillar, raised his six arms, and began a barrage of strikes at Zoro."Although I don't know why you only have one sword, just fall already, Roronoa!""Isn't one sword enough to defeat you? Don't worry, it'll be over quickly."Seeing Zoro looking down on him like that, Hatchan immediately swung his six fists."Octopus Takoyaki Punch! Get turned into mincemeat!"Watching this barrage of attacks, Zoro immediately blocked with the back of his blade, found an opening, and then sent Hatchan flying with a single strike.Hatchan crashed into a building.Kuroobi, who was nearby, saw Hatchan get sent flying and, thinking he was messing around, couldn't help but shout at him."Hatchan, stop playing around! Arlong can't hold out much longer! Ah—""Hey, ignoring me like that? That's a bit insulting."It turned out that while Kuroobi was communicating with Hatchan, Sanji had seized the opportunity to kick him away.The kicked Kuroobi immediately performed a breakfall roll to mitigate the impact."It seems I underestimated you, but I won't be careless again. Now, I'll show you the power of Fishman Karate 40th Dan!"As he said this, Kuroobi assumed a karate stance.Over on Hatchan's side, he pulled his weapons—six swords—out of the rubble."Argh! You bastard! I'm furious now! I'm going to kill you! Do you know that on Fish-Man Island, aside from one person, I am the No. 1 swordsman, known as Six-Sword Style Hatchan! Humans like you, even if the world were turned upside down, could never defeat me!"Zoro looked at his opponent and felt it was truly boring. Was such a person actually the second strongest fighter on Fish-Man Island?"Six-Sword Style? How boring. Alright, perverted cook, I'm about to finish things here. I might as well show this octopus what Three Sword Style is. Yosaku, Johnny, lend me your swords!""No problem!" "Here you go, Big Brother Zoro!"Hearing Zoro's insulting words, Hatchan was furious."I'm going to kill you!"With that, he brandished his six swords and slashed toward Zoro.Sanji kicked toward Kuroobi once again, his foot clashing with the opponent's fist again."Take this! Bare-Handed Blade, Fin Blade Slash!"Kuroobi used the fins on his arms to slash at Sanji.Seeing the attack, Sanji immediately ducked to dodge, catching the opponent's strike, but the pillar behind him shattered.At the same time, the rubble from the shattered pillar hit Hatchan, who was nearby."Bastard! Kuroobi, why attack me too?!""Hatchan, hurry up and deal with Zoro! We don't have time to argue about this, Arlong can't hold out much longer!""Fine, for Arlong-sama, I'll endure it. Roronoa Zoro, take this!"After calming Hatchan down, Kuroobi faced Sanjiagain.He raised his hand and threw a punch. Seeing the attack, Sanji knew he could counter-attack, so he raised his leg and unleashed a move."Upper-Level Exploding Palm!" "Collier Shoot!"Kuroobi's palm and Sanji's leg collided.The powerful force made Kuroobi stumble back several steps before he could steady himself."It seems your strength is decent, but the tenacity of a Fishman is very strong, and your so-called chivalry is just a kind of...""Stop yapping on and on! Take this, Shoulder Shoot!"Sanji jumped up to attack Kuroobi's shoulder, and Kuroobi, seeing his opponent so aggressive, also raised his leg to meet him head-on."Rising Instep Kick!"The two legs collided, but unfortunately, Sanji's attack was heavy and powerful; he directly snapped Kuroobi's leg bone, and the floor beneath the opponent also shattered.Feeling the pain of his broken leg bone, Kuroobigritted his teeth and engaged his opponent again.Then, the two began a head-to-head battle."Back Meat Shoot!" "Fire-Flower Heel Slash!""Breast Meat Shoot!" "Lower Abdomen Kick!""Leg Meat Shoot!" "Hundred Tile Fist!"Sanji's kick sent Kuroobi flying, his condition unknown."Looks like I'm the one who's won."Sanji looked at Zoro on the side and said triumphantly.The kicked-away Kuroobi saw the villagers nearby, but he didn't pay them any mind; compared to that, it was better to defeat the cook in front of him first.On the other side, Yosaku and Johnny threw their swords over, and at that moment, Hatchan's attack reached Zoro."Take this, Octopus Foot Strange Sword! Hiyo!"At the moment he caught the swords, Zoro used a strange movement to neutralize the opponent's attack while simultaneously cutting wounds onto Hatchan's body."Three Sword Style: Blade Wave Flow!"Nearby, Johnny and Yosaku couldn't help but marvel at Zoro's fluid, cloud-like movements, and even the villagers were praising him."He neutralized it! He neutralized that guy's barrage of Six-Sword Style attacks!""That guy is really amazing.""That goes without saying. Big Brother Zorowouldn't lose to these people."Hatchan, wounded by Zoro, looked at the cuts on his body."I'm really angry now! Bastard!"Hatchan brandished his six swords, while Zoro put on his bandana and looked at his opponent with a serious expression.Alex and Luffy could tell that Zoro was getting serious.Sanji watched Kuroobi approach, and seeing his trembling body, couldn't help but ask if he still wanted to fight."I... I will not... will not admit defeat! Take this, this... this is my final blow. Thousand Tile Fist!"Kuroobi ran toward Sanji, gathering power in his hands; this was his strongest technique, and his willpower had reached its limit.Sanji could have dodged this attack, but he didn't."Is that so..."Sanji crouched down to face Kuroobi's attack, turned, and kicked backward."Mutton Shot!"The two techniques collided, and Kuroobi was sent flying again.At the same time, Zoro watched Hatchan attacking and assumed a stance."Bastard Roronoa Zoro, I'll use this move to end your life! Six-Sword Style: Octopus Pot New Spring Slash!"Zoro raised his arms and began to spin in place; a powerful whirlwind appeared around him."Three Sword Style Secret Technique: Tornado!"With just one move, he shattered all six of Hatchan's swords and simultaneously left him severely wounded.Hatchan, sent flying into the sky by Zoro, and Kuroobi, kicked away by Sanji, both landed in the nearby ruins.The villagers looked at the defeated Fishmen in front of them; they couldn't believe they had actually defeated them.They began pinching themselves to see if they were hallucinating, and after realizing they weren't, they wanted to cheer for their total liberation.Just then, Nami ran over, and seeing Arlong buried in the ground along with the group of Fishmen at the bottom of the island, her tears couldn't help but flow.Even Usopp came running back, covered in wounds, and at the same time, the memories of his clone were transmitted into Alex's mind."It seems Usopp has grown as well.""Ugh... Da... damn bastards! I... I am the FishmanArlong!"Arlong, who should have been unconscious, woke up at that moment; relying on the tenacious physique of a Fishman, he broke free from the dirt."Hoo... hoo... My, my comrades, Kuroobi, Hatchan..."Arlong looked at his kinsmen covering the ground, even Hatchan and Kuroobi were lying to the side, their fates unknown."Bastards... bastards... I'll kill you all! You humans, how dare you resist me, a Fishman! You deserve to die!""Good grief. Gomu Gomu no Gatling!"Luffy couldn't hold back anymore and struck first; countless afterimages hit Arlong's body."Pfft, cough, cough, it's useless! I am a Fishman! What use are you, you weakling!""Hehehe, although I don't know how to use a sword, nor do I know how to navigate, and I can't cook, lie, or perform Ninjutsu...""Hahaha! I thought you were a human with some strength, but I didn't expect you to be such trash! If you're such trash, what right do you have to be their Captain? And what abilities do you have?!""I can send you flying! Gomu Gomu no Spear!"After saying this, Luffy jumped up, brought the soles of his feet together, and then attacked Arlong with force.Being at the end of his rope, how could he withstand this attack?In the deep pit, Arlong took an oval object covered in circular patterns from his chest and swallowed it whole."I thought the Steroid Hody gave me would never see use, but I didn't expect you guys to be able to push me to this extent."Alex could clearly sense that Arlong's previously weakening heartbeat was becoming strong and powerful, the dead skin on his body began to shed, and his muscles bulged significantly."Next, you're all going to die!"Arlong stood up and rubbed the spot where he had just been attacked."Even after eating the Steroid, I can still feel this piercing pain. It seems you two are quite strong, but I am now dozens of times stronger than before.""Then I'm hundreds of times stronger than before!""Luffy, stop messing around. He consumed some kind of drug that drains his life force to gain power.""Is that so? Well, it doesn't matter, I'll definitely be able to send him flying.""Send me flying? Don't get too arrogant."Arlong then pulled out his own teeth, and a new set of teeth quickly grew back in his mouth."Oh~ How amazing!"Luffy watched this scene from the side with excitement in his eyes.But Arlong took them out again, holding two sets of teeth, and attacked Alex and Luffy."Look at my Iron Tooth Attack!""It's useless. Rasengan!"The moment the two sets of teeth touched the Rasengan, they were pulverized into dust, and Arlong was also sent flying into a building.
Chapter 79: The Death of ArlongFrom Alex's perspective, a large hole had been torn open where Arlong was hit by the Rasengan.But strangely, that large hole was healing rapidly. Before long, Arlong had fully recovered and began to move again.At the same time, he drew a jagged longsword from his side, then flashed out of sight."What kind of terrifying recovery ability is this!"Just as Alex was marveling at how Arlong could recover like that, he had already arrived behind Alex.Realizing the opponent might be behind him, Alexraised his leg and kicked backward."Strong Cyclone!" Bang!Alex's attack was blocked by the opponent's weapon, and that large jagged sword was kicked to pieces by Alex."Sha hahahaha, too weak, too weak! You absolutely cannot kill me!""Gum-Gum! Rocket!"Luffy struck. This move, which could break Don Krieg's armor, hit Arlong, but it seemed as if nothing had happened.However, Alex could see that Luffy's previous move had already shattered his heart, but it had been restored by that drug."Damn it, why won't you die!""Luffy, the drug Arlong ingested seems to have mutated. Now, as long as he has life force remaining, he won't die; even severed limbs can be fully repaired.""Heh heh, I am invincible!"Arlong initially didn't understand his own condition, but after hearing Alex's words, he knew what his current situation was.It seemed his sister was right. But even if he were to die, he would make these people who harmed his kin pay the price.Thinking of this, Arlong jumped into the water."Damn it, did he run away!""No. Luffy, watch out underwater. He's in the water now and it looks like he's about to dive out... Look out!"After seeing Arlong enter the water, Alex saw him dive straight down, only starting to charge upward after reaching a certain depth."After eating the fierce drug, my physical capabilities have greatly increased. Combined with the Fishmanrace's advantage in seawater, prepare to die, you two!""'SHARK ON DARTS'!"Then, Arlong began to dive upward. This speed was even faster than on land."Dodge! Luffy!"Alex shouted at Luffy, who was to the side, while he himself jumped to the side, dodging the attack.Arlong's attack was like a bullet shooting toward the two of them; he used acceleration to attack with his nose.Thanks to Alex's warning, he and Luffy successfully dodged the opponent's attack.As for Arlong, he plunged headfirst into the building."Such fast speed, such strong power!"The villagers nearby hadn't even seen Arlong's figure clearly before they heard a loud boom, and a large hole appeared in the building.At this moment, they realized once again the monster-like strength of these people.Arlong poked his head out from the hole he had broken and looked at the two people on the ground."Yo... to think you actually dodged it. But the more you dodge, the more you will suffer!""'SHARK ON DARTS'!"Arlong attacked again, but this time Alex did not dodge."Earth Release: Earth-Style Wall, Earth Release: Swamp of the Underworld!"Alex opened his mouth, and a large mass of yellow earth was spat out. Then, the earth began to grow, turning into an earthen wall.Subsequently, a large amount of mud gushed out from the outside of the earthen wall.Arlong plunged into it. After being weakened by the Swamp of the Underworld, Arlong, devoid of any remaining impact force, was pinned firmly against the Earth-Style Wall."It's not over yet. Earth Release: Earth-Style Spear."Several spikes appeared in front of Arlong, and the next second, these spikes pierced into Arlong's body one by one.Arlong, in pain, broke free from the Earth-Style Wall, and those earth spears fell off one by one.Although the wounds were healing, the speed had clearly slowed down."It seems your life span is coming to an end, Arlong!""So what? It's still more than enough to kill you all!""Is that so? Then this move... Wait, what is that?"Just as Alex was about to continue his attack, he saw a room behind Arlong."Luffy, go over there and take a look. See what's inside."Luffy didn't understand what Alex meant, but Arlong knew what was in there. He got up once again and came before Luffy, wanting to stop him from entering."You are not allowed to approach that place!"Then, he threw a punch at Luffy. Luffy ducked to dodge, then used a Gum-Gum Bullet to hit Arlong in the abdomen, knocking Arlong back into the building.Arlong took the opportunity to grab Luffy's arm, and the two of them entered the room Alex had pointed to together."The rest is up to you, Luffy. I hope this cleansing can help Nami escape her nightmare."Afterward, Alex sat on the ground, waiting for the result from Luffy's side.Nami, who was nearby, saw the room that Luffy and Arlong had entered and the place Alex had pointed to. She recognized it; that was her nightmare—the Survey Room.Luffy and Arlong were inside the Survey Room. Luffy looked at everything around him."Is this the room Alex was talking about? It's full of paper."Arlong forced himself to stand and came before Luffy. Upon hearing the other's words, he couldn't help but introduce it to Luffy."This isn't just ordinary paper. These are the nautical charts that Nami has spent eight years drawing."For a Fishman, obtaining data on the sea is as easy as reaching into one's pocket, but the problem is the cartographer... In this world, you will never find anyone who can draw more accurately than she can!That woman is a genius!The most foolish and unfortunate thing in this world is to waste one's talent... Cough, cough, cough!"Luffy didn't listen to what Arlong was saying, but instead looked around the room.A fountain pen nearby caught his attention. He picked it up and found it stained with blood, then looked at Arlong with an angry face.Arlong, having recovered after coughing for a while, continued to explain his purpose.At this moment, Arlong was delirious; it looked like he was about to reach his limit."What kind of expression is that? For Nami, continuing to draw nautical charts here is the greatest happiness.""Of course, her charts are drawn for my ambition.""When I obtain charts that reveal the entire world's oceans, that will be the day my Fishman race dominates the world!""At that time, the world will become my empire!""And my springboard is that little island... it's the East Blue!""Can you, kid, utilize her as effectively?"Luffy stood up, came before Arlong, and reached out to crush the other's shoulder."Utilize? What do you take her for?"Arlong could no longer feel a shred of pain at this moment; the final madness of his life was vividly displayed through his death throes."That is naturally an excellent navigator. Although her background isn't good, she is smart.""If others are compared to rats in the gutter, then she is a spirited little cat...""Regardless, she is cute.""In the future, I will let Nami continue to draw charts in this room, drawing forever.""But I will give her delicious food, and I will buy her the clothes she wants, so she won't have to worry about food or clothing.""At the same time, she is also our... companion!"Luffy let go of the hand gripping Arlong, then kicked a table nearby, sending it flying out.The crowd outside saw something fly out of that room and thought the winner had been decided.They didn't expect it to be just a table.Instead, Alex below started to laugh."It looks like our Captain also knows where the problem lies."Sanji sat to the side, exhaled a puff of smoke, and asked Alex."Alex, what's the situation up there?""See for yourself."Hearing this, Sanji raised his leg and kicked at Alex, but was dodged by the other using the Body Replacement Technique."Tch, what a rascal."Instead, Nami, who was nearby, stood there blankly after seeing that table.Johnny and Yosaku saw something fly out and initially thought it was Luffy, but were relieved when they saw it wasn't."Scared the hell out of me, I thought it was Big Brother Luffy.""So what? Even if Big Brother Luffy falls, isn't there still Big Brother Alex? Are you doubting the strength of these two Big Brothers?""No way... I just... it was just subconscious... just subconscious."Inside the room, Luffy started acting as a porter; whether it was a desk or a writing desk, all were kicked flying by him.Seeing this, Arlong wanted to make Luffy stop, but unfortunately, he could no longer move and could only watch helplessly as everything was kicked away by Luffy."You brat, what are you doing! My charts, my... my empire... You... you... you... give my charts... back to me... That... that is... that is what I had... Nami draw for eight years... the foundation of the ArlongEmpire!"Downstairs, Nami stared at these things, recalling the past when she was trapped by Arlong.They all disappeared along with these desks, and finally, a large amount of drawings.Amidst the flying drawings, Nami silently thanked Luffy for everything he had done.At this moment, the room was empty. Luffy looked at Arlong before him."How great Fishmen are... how important the charts are, or how the empire is... I don't care about any of that.""But, I finally thought of a way to help her; Alex told me this too.""This room is the culprit! I'm going to smash this place that causes her pain!"After speaking, Luffy swung his leg upward with force, his foot breaking through the roof and exposing itself outside.Arlong could only watch everything before him, unable to stop it.Then, Luffy slammed his foot down with great force."Gum-Gum! Battle Axe!"The sole of his foot stomped onto Arlong's body. The powerful force kicked him to the very bottom floor, and the building could not withstand this impact and cracked.From the outside, this building, which was nearly six stories tall, first cracked down the middle and then collapsed with a roar.The villagers outside saw the building start to collapse and fled into the distance."Run... run! Arlong Park has been shattered by the impact just now!""Danger! Everyone, get out of the way!"Alex woke up Zoro, who was nearby, grabbed Usopp, and the three of them ran to the side quickly to avoid the shockwave from the building's collapse.Johnny and Yosaku also followed the crowd to leave, but seeing Nami still standing there, they stepped forward to pull her away."Hurry, go! Big Sister Nami!""But Luffy is still inside!"The next second, the building collapsed, and dust and smoke covered the entire Arlong Park.Alex had already taken Usopp to a safe area.Sanji and Zoro also stared intently at the ruins; they wanted to know who had won in the end.Through the Byakugan, Alex only saw the figure of Luffy; as for Arlong, he had turned into a corpse
Chapter 80: Nightmare, ShatteredLooking at the collapsed Arlong Park, everyone finally realized that there were still people who hadn't come out."Where is that boy with the straw hat?""Big brothers...""What on earth happened inside...""The long-nosed one isn't seen either, and that white-haired kid, they are all still inside...""And who actually won!"Just as everyone was discussing this, a figure appeared atop the ruins, with the sunlight slanting down."Luffy...""Big Brother Luffy!"Nami, Yosaku, and the others could see that this figure was indeed Luffy.It seemed Luffy had won the battle."Nami! You are my crewmate!"Atop the ruins, Luffy declared Nami his crewmate, and Sanji took the opportunity to try and hug Nojiko, who was nearby.But she dodged him, and Nojiko happily hugged Genzo instead."Sanji, do you want to give me a hug?"Alex transformed into a beautiful woman and approached Sanji. Just as Sanji was about to pounce, Alex immediately canceled the first layer of the Transformation Technique.A woman resembling Ruka appeared before Sanji.Sanji was scared unconscious by this sight. Alexdispelled the transformation, crouched on the ground, and poked the fainted Sanji, laughing at him.Even Usopp and Zoro nearby were laughing at him."As expected of the perverted cook, he's fallen for this trick by Alex twice now.""Alex, how was my suggestion?""The effect was excellent, Usopp!"Sanji, having recovered, looked at the two whispering to each other and unleashed a sweeping kick at them.Alex used the Body Replacement Technique to dodge, while Usopp went flying along with the wooden log.With this little farce over, the villagers cheered that Arlong Park had completely collapsed.Meanwhile, Arlong was revealed in the ruins nearby; he was shriveled, his skin pale, his hair falling out, his teeth missing, looking just like a skeleton.Just as the villagers were rejoicing, an unexpected group of people arrived."Squeak, squeak, squeak! You're done fighting, right!"It turned out to be Colonel Nezumi arriving with his subordinates, and at the same time, a figure followed them and came over to Alex's side.Alex looked at the scroll handed over by his clone and sensed it, discovering that the estimated amount of Berries inside was a full 500 million.This huge sum of money left Alex stunned. Although he had a hunch there would be a lot, he hadn't expected it to be this much.Colonel Nezumi didn't know the situation and was still there acting arrogant."What a lucky day! Thank you for your hard work; you let me see a wonderful battle. Although it was a fluke, I really didn't expect these Fishmen to be defeated by a group of unknown pirates like you. But thanks to you, the money that was supposed to be given to Arlong, as well as the treasure in Arlong Park, all belong to me now."Colonel Nezumi waved his hand. "Everyone, put down your weapons! The credit for your achievements will be claimed by me, Colonel Nezumi of the 16th Marine Branch!"Zoro flashed behind Colonel Nezumi and grabbed the back of his head."When people are celebrating, don't come and spoil the mood!"Seeing Zoro's actions, many Marine soldiers raised their guns and aimed them at Zoro and the other villagers."Don't move, release Colonel Nezumi!""You are Marines, and you're threatening civilians with guns? Do you have no shame?""Precisely because we are Marines, we declare these people to be pirates and are going to ex..."The leading soldier hadn't even finished speaking when he realized they were sinking.Earth Release: Swamp of the Underworld; with just one move, he defeated these Marines.Looking at the soldiers lying unconscious on the ground, Alex spat a mouthful of water at them to wake them up."Tell me your purpose, and don't try any tricks."Colonel Nezumi woke up first and, seeing the soldiers lying all over the ground, was clearly extremely nervous."You... you remember, if you dare to use violence against me, I won't let you off...""Ah, still yapping!" Alex said, somewhat impatiently, raising his foot to kick the other man."Alex, can you leave him to me?"Nami walked over, returned the straw hat on her head to Luffy, and then came over to Alex's side.Seeing the person in charge arrive, Alex stepped aside.Arriving in front of Colonel Nezumi, Nami crouched down and began to mutter."The debt for hitting Nojiko, and the debt for destroying Bell-mère's orange grove..."Although Colonel Nezumi didn't know what the other side was saying, he immediately knew what Nami was about to do.Bang! Nami swung the staff in her hand and hit Colonel Nezumi hard.Colonel Nezumi was knocked flying to the edge of the pool; at this moment, he was clinging desperately to the edge of the pool, not letting himself fall in.Seeing this, Nojiko shouted to Nami. "Thank you, Nami! You vented my anger for me."Genzo shouted angrily at Nami. "Beat him another thousand times for me!"It seemed Genzo had no good feelings at all for this guy who had hurt Nami's heart and Nojiko's body.Nami came to Colonel Nezumi, crouched down, then pinched his face and instructed him."You go and clean up the mess now! Then help rebuild Gosa Village! Remember, you are not allowed to keep any treasure left in Arlong Park! Those things belong to this island. And one more thing..."Speaking to this point, Nami's grip tightened a little."Ouch, ouch, ouch, I'll listen to you, okay!"Seeing that he was behaving, Nami stated the last thing. "Give my money back to me!""I'll return it, I'll return it...""May I ask how Colonel Nezumi will return it, since your money is all right here." Alex walked over and tossed the scroll in his hand.Nami knew of this ability of Alex's. "Alex, is all my money in there! Give it back to me quickly!"Seeing the scroll, Nami wanted to pounce on it.Alex dodged, and at the same time, took out Nami's 100 million Berries.Then he walked up to Colonel Nezumi and formed hand seals. "Ahhh—""Stop screaming, it didn't hurt much, but do you know what I just did to you?"Colonel Nezumi shook his head. Although he didn't know, he knew it definitely wasn't anything good."I just placed a technique on your heart. Remember, it can only be removed once you complete the tasks Nami assigned. Remember, I will have people secretly watching you. If you don't behave, heh heh...""No, I won't, I will definitely complete them properly."Colonel Nezumi had almost knocked his head bloody; what Nami said was just verbal, but this gentleman would really kill him."Alright, Nami, you continue, I have some things to do over there. Oh, Colonel Nezumi, the blood and sweat of the people you collected from other places, I've brought those over too, as well as the funds for exchanging bounties. Remember to distribute them door-to-door later; consider this the price for your inaction this year."After speaking, Alex left the scene to Nami and went to the side to write down the key to break the technique.After Alex left, Nami punched the guy a few more times and then let him go.Colonel Nezumi and a few subordinates swam toward their ship.After swimming some distance, he began to make threats. "You bunch of wicked pirates, remember this! The guy with the straw hat is named Luffy, right! You're the Captain, right? And that pretty-boy dwarf, his name is Alex, right! Remember! You are in big trouble! You have angered me! I will get my revenge!""He said we'd be in big trouble, pretty boy. Pfft...""How did he know I would become the Pirate King...""You idiot, that's not what he was talking about.""Hey, what if we are really in big trouble! Dwarf, pfft..."After worrying, Sanji and Usopp covered their mouths and laughed at Alex on the side.Alex saw the two of them and then looked at the departing Colonel Nezumi."Since that's the case, let's let this bastard Nezumi be buried at the bottom of the sea!"Alex also bared his shark teeth and shouted at Colonel Nezumi, while beginning to form hand seals.Zoro, who was nearby, grabbed him and told him not to be impulsive.Stopped by Zoro, Alex looked at Sanji and Usopp, who were laughing at him, and shouted at them again."You two were laughing at me just now, right? Watch me beat you two down!"The three of them started a chaotic scuffle, though, of course, this was just playing around.However, the villagers on the side saw that the three of them still had the energy to mess around after a great battle, and couldn't help but exclaim: are they really monsters?Genzo looked at these young people before him and sighed to the old friend beside him."I didn't expect that we would actually be saved by pirates...""Yeah, it's truly unbelievable..."The villagers had no thoughts about these questions; they found the tattered flag of the Arlong Pirates in the ruins.They held the flag high and ran toward the other Villages."Hey, we can't just be happy for ourselves!""That's right, we have to tell everyone on the island about this major event!""Arlong Park has been destroyed!"Seeing everyone disperse, Alex and the others returned to the Village, while Nami went to the grave of her adoptive mother, Bell-mère, to tell her what had happened.After praying, Nami looked at the tombstone before her."Genzo, Nojiko... if Bell-mère were still alive... would she stop me from becoming a pirate?""What?" × 2Neither Nojiko nor Genzo had expected Nami to have such a thought.Nojiko was the first to react, and she sighed."She wouldn't stop you at all!"Hearing Nojiko say "stop," Genzo thought she meant Bell-mère would stop her, so he quickly continued."Yeah, how could she let her beloved daughter become a pirate?"But thinking about it again, that wasn't right; Nojikowas saying she would let her go.Thinking of this, Genzo immediately changed his tune. "No, wait, if she stopped you, would you listen?"Hearing this, Nami stuck out her tongue. "Blehh! Definitely not!"At this moment, in a restaurant, Alex was eating food in large mouthfuls."Another bowl!"Outside the door, everyone was sitting there. Even Luffy hadn't gone in; it wasn't for any other reason, simply because Zoro was holding him down.Sanji sat beside Usopp, listening to the voice inside shouting "Another bowl!" every two minutes."Still eating? Sanji, aren't you a cook?""Alex said he didn't need me to cook, that he was just restoring his stamina, so he didn't care about the taste of the food, but... I still want to go...""Then go ahead, it just so happens that we're hungry too!""Yay! Did you hear that? Let me go, Zoro!"The four of them walked into the room and saw Alex devouring food.Alex was seen picking up a plate and pouring it directly into his stomach without even chewing."Another bowl! Ah, everyone's here. Wait for me, I'm almost finished."
Chapter 81: Wanted, Banquet, and PunishmentEveryone went into the room and noticed that Alexhad changed quite a bit.Previously, Alex was only 1.5 meters tall, but now he was noticeably taller, standing at over 1.6 meters."Hey, Alex, I remember you weren't like this at the beginning, right?"Usopp asked if he had undergone any changes.Alex nodded, and after swallowing the food in his mouth, he explained."That's right. Because my body underwent optimization, I decided to grow according to the optimized state, which is why I look like this now."At this moment, Alex had white hair and faint Violeteyes.His skin was delicate and glossy; he looked like a little rice cake.Luffy didn't care about this at all; he came to Alex's side and reached out to grab food from the table to eat.After exhausting three chefs, Alex had more or less recovered.Meanwhile, at Marine Base 16, Nezumi arrived at the Den Den Mushi and dialed the Marine Headquarters."Hello! Hello!""Hello, this is Marine Headquarters."After getting through to Marine Headquarters, Nezumi started shouting at the Den Den Mushi."Hello! Is this Headquarters? This is Colonel Nezumi of Marine Base 16! Marine ID 00733! I want to submit a request to Headquarters!""You don't have to shout; I can hear you."Nezumi ignored the other party and continued shouting on that side."Listen up! There is a pirate with a straw hat named Luffy. He has a total of five subordinates, and among them, the Captain, Luffy, and that white-haired Alex are the most dangerous! They can be considered enemies of the World Government!"At Marine Headquarters, in the Intelligence Management Office, the Marine on the other end of the line listened to Colonel Nezumi's shouting while recording the information."Luffy... Alex... Pirates..."Fearing that the bounty request wouldn't be strong enough, Nezumi continued to add weight to the case against them."Given their ability to wipe out the Arlong Pirates at Arlong Park, they possess high threat and danger levels. Please issue a bounty for both of them. I am now transmitting photos of the two."Then, he transmitted the photos of Luffy and Alexthat he had taken.Luffy's photo showed him laughing, with his stretched-out arm visible at the edge of the frame, and Usopp's figure could also be seen behind Luffy.Alex's photo showed him staring forward with wide eyes, full of curiosity.After all, this was his first time seeing a Den Den Mushi camera; he hadn't expected this world to rely on such creatures for communication, so he was naturally curious.Nezumi looked at these two—one who looked like an idiot and the other who looked like a curious little kid—neither of whom looked like heinous criminals."Are there any more serious-looking ones?""Yes, Colonel Nezumi, these are the only two."Confirming there were no extra photos, Nezumi had no choice but to bite the bullet and continue speaking."Requesting Headquarters to confirm the facts as soon as possible... and approve my request! Because these two brats are heinous pirates! List them as wanted criminals! Capture them dead or alive!"The intelligence collector looked at the two photos in his hand and what Nezumi had said, and he found it laughable.But there was no choice but to issue the bounty. However, before that, he had to collect the intelligence first.Subsequently, the Marine reported the materials on the two, and after returning, he began answering the phone again; this time, it was a base in the South Blue."Hello, hello, is this Marine Headquarters?""Yes, please state your business."...Not long after, another list appeared on the desks of the many officers in the conference room.Back in Cocoyasi Village, Alex, having mostly recovered, began asking around for Genzo's whereabouts.Guided by a few people, he arrived at the man's room."White-haired kid, it's you. Is something the matter?""It's like this. Nami said she wanted Colonel Nezumi to do a few things. In order to make him actually do it, I put a little something on his body. If he actually gets it done, I'll trouble you to stick this piece of paper on his chest. If he doesn't, then don't worry about it. By the way, this is a sleeping drug. Don't let him see who you are."After speaking, Alex took out two things: one was the paper Alex mentioned, and the other was the sleeping drug.Genzo looked at the items in front of him, his eyes twitching, but he couldn't really say anything.As night fell, a grand banquet was held on the island.No one knew how long this banquet would last, as they wanted to revel and vent the dissatisfaction and humiliation of these past years."So delicious! Luffy, come try this. This prosciutto and melon is absolutely amazing.""Oh~ so delicious, it's really so delicious."Luffy held a meat-on-the-bone in one hand while eating the prosciutto and melon.A full Sanji and Zoro were resting in a corner."Ah... so full. Occasionally, just eating without cooking is not bad either."At this moment, Alex dragged Luffy toward another place, where there was a pudding as big as a cake.Zoro, drinking beer, watched the two run past."How is Luffy still holding meat in both hands?"As for why Zoro said that, it was because Luffy and Alex had been running back and forth like this many times already, and every time, Luffy had three pieces of meat-on-the-bone in his hands."Honestly, those two are just guys who only know how to eat."Once his digestion was mostly done, Sanji began his action."Digestion is mostly done, so it's time to go have fun—"Saying this, he ran to the side to look for pretty ladies.Also lively was Usopp, who stood on a high platform."Ahem—I am! The one who defeated the Fishmanexecutive, Captain Usopp! Now, I shall showcase my singing voice!""Big Brother, well done!""Give me an autograph!"The villagers cheered for Usopp loudly.Luffy, who had originally been looking for that pudding bigger than a cake with Alex, had now arrived in front of Bell-mère's grave.Genzo, who had just finished paying his respects, saw Luffy and called out to him.Afterward, Genzo began to preach to Luffy like an old father. After all, Nami was the daughter he recognized, and now that his daughter was going to run off with this guy in front of him, what was a father to do?On the other side, Nojiko chose to hide in a quiet place, but there she saw that child from Gosa Village, who was sitting there holding corn.Nojiko walked over and found that the other party was neither crying nor complaining, just sitting there."How boring."Hearing the voice, the boy looked up and saw Nojiko."What's wrong?""I thought you would be moping and saying: 'Why didn't this happen before Dad died?' or 'Why couldn't they have come earlier? Then my family wouldn't have died,' or something like that."The boy glanced at Nojiko and lowered his head, fiddling with the corn in his hand."At first, I did think that way. But I know that no matter how much you think about such things, it's of no use. Not to mention, they already avenged me."Seeing the expression on the child's face, Nojikoimmediately reached out and pinched his cheek: "Stop pretending!"The boy, pinched in pain by the other party, immediately changed his serious expression.Then he slapped Nojiko's arm, begging her to let him go."Ouch, ouch, ouch! Why are you pinching my face! Unreasonable!"Nojiko watched the other party switch from that composed expression to his current state and let go."What's with that? It's rare that I'm in the mood to bully you again..."The child rubbed his painful cheek while looking at Nojiko."Woo... hadn't you bullied me enough just now? You tattooed delinquent girl!"Nojiko laughed: "So what if I'm a delinquent?"In the medical clinic, Nami lay on the medical bed, asking the doctor."Can it be removed?""It's impossible to remove it completely; some scars will inevitably remain. After all, that's just how tattoos are."Hearing the doctor's words, Nami fell silent."Yeah, this can't be removed for the rest of my life..."Subsequently, she recalled Nojiko's tattoo and why the other party had gotten it; thinking of this, Namihad an idea."Doctor, I'd like to ask you to help me replace it with a pattern."As she spoke, Nami pulled a picture from her chest and handed it to the doctor.The doctor didn't say anything after seeing it, and just as he was about to tattoo Nami, Alex appeared.Coming along were Sanji, Zoro, and Luffy. As for Usopp, he was still singing on the high platform.The four of them walked into the room in unison. Luffy had a serious look, Zoro had the corners of his mouth turned up, and Sanji had a love-struck face."You guys... what are you doing?"The doctor came over to ask, but Alex ushered him out."Due to Usopp's absence, his vote is an abstention. Next, we will vote to decide...""Decide what?" Nami lay on the hospital bed, completely unaware of what they were going to decide.But Alex didn't explain and directly read the verdict."Nami, you left the team without permission, stole team funds, and didn't trust your companions..."Alex listed five or six charges in a row. The more Nami heard, the lower her head dropped; she thought she was about to be expelled."After a unanimous decision by everyone, Nami, you will receive the punishment of tickling! Executioners Zoro and Luffy, step forward!"Zoro and Luffy each took out a feather and walked toward Nami.Alex and Sanji held her down to prevent her from escaping."Quick, Luffy, make this guy who doesn't trust her companions suffer a little."Luffy nodded, looking fiercely at Nami."Alright, I'm going in!"Zoro also postured on the side."Nami, accept the punishment for betraying your companions."The two grabbed Nami's feet and began tickling her.Nami, unable to bear the tickling on the hospital bed, rolled from side to side, but was held down by Alex and Sanji, unable to move."Hehehe, Nami, just obediently accept your punishment.""Nami-san, don't worry, I'll be there in spirit to accept the punishment with you.""Ha... hahaha... I... I can't take it anymore... haha... ha Sanji... haha Sanji-kun... haha let me go... I... haha... I beg for mercy ha...""Beg for mercy? Too late. Not trusting your companions—based on this alone, I can't spare you."This punishment lasted for three hours before everyone finally let Nami go.After being released, Nami lay limp on the hospital bed, twitching from time to time, with an expression of having been played to the point of breaking. During this time, the laughter never stopped."Very well, punishment explained. Then we'll be leaving. Luffy, let's go."The few of them quickly left the place again, leaving Nami alone lying on the bed.
Chapter 82: Nami Joins the ShipAfter teaching Nami a lesson, the four of them left the cabin, leaving her alone inside laughing uncontrollably.Later, the doctor took one look and said that in her current state, she couldn't get a tattoo; they would have to wait until Nami had laughed enough and stopped on her own before the tattooing could proceed.Upon hearing this, Nami laughed and told the doctor to go out first.At this moment, Usopp had already sung up to the sixth song; if he had known there was an activity to punish Nami, he probably would have regretted missing it to death.As for who was having the most fun at the party, it was undoubtedly the two brothers, Yosaku and Johnny.The two of them performed a very powerful move at the banquet: inserting one end of a chopstick into their nostrils and placing the other end between their chin gums and lips.That's right, the two of them were dancing at the banquet in this posture.After seeing this, Luffy's eyes lit up, wanting to learn this unique skill; after learning it, he joined in and started dancing with them.This lively scene continued until late into the second night, only stopping when the third day dawned.After resting well for another day, they were finally ready to set sail.Before setting off, Alex went to the blacksmith shop to see how his custom-made equipment was coming along.The owner of the blacksmith shop saw it was Alexand immediately came to greet him."Oh, it's you, young man. The things you wanted are here, take a look!"Several masters placed a bag on the table. Alexopened it and saw shuriken and Kunai neatly arranged inside.To confirm their effectiveness, Alex held them in his hand and gestured with them, confirming the quality was good. However, upon closer inspection, he realized the quantity seemed a bit too much."Uncle, didn't you make a bit too many? I..."Before Alex could finish, several masters waved their hands to interrupt him and explained."Not too many, not too many. Benefactors, it was you who saved us and the village, and it was you who avenged us. These were crafted by us voluntarily; we hope you won't refuse."Alex looked and nodded to show he understood, then tied the items back up and took them in his hand.Before Alex turned to leave, he tossed out a gold bar and left using the Body Flicker Technique.After all, they defeated Arlong for Nami, and taking advantage of others directly wasn't very good.The masters watched Alex leave, then looked at the gold on the table, smiled, and put it away. He would treasure this well, preparing to pass it down as a family heirloom.Alex had already returned to the going merry with the bundle.Next to the going merry, a large number of villagers had gathered, and everyone was seeing them off.However, Nami, who should have appeared, was nowhere to be seen."Hasn't Nami come yet? She wouldn't be not coming, would she?"Alex looked into the distance and still didn't see Nami's figure, wondering if she wasn't coming or if she was preparing something.Johnny and Yosaku also chose to say their goodbyes."We are preparing to go back to our old profession and return to being Bounty Hunterss. Thank you for your care during these days, big brothers.""Although we are parting ways now, we look forward to meeting you big brothers again.""Alright, take care of yourselves!""You too."Alex leaned over and tossed out a small bundle."You must take good care of your bodies; don't get scurvy again due to a lack of Vitamin C. By the way, Johnny, Yosaku, this bag is for you. These are soldier ration pills; you know their specific effects.""Thank you for the reminder, Big Brother Alex. We won't make that mistake again."After saying goodbye to them, Johnny and Yosakutook their boat and left.Alex returned to the deck and started organizing his weapons. As for the task of watching for Nami, that was left to Usopp."That girl still hasn't come!""She wouldn't be not coming, would she!""What! Miss Nami isn't coming!""Hey, Alex, where is that pudding as big as a cake? I didn't see it.""Huh? Weren't you following me? I remember... wait, that person wasn't you. I thought it was you. Well, nothing to be done about it now."Facing Luffy's accusation, Alex was just about to say he would take him to eat it, but then he realized that was just someone who looked a bit like Luffy.The people on the ship saw that Nami still hadn't come, while the villagers below the ship heard some news."What! She left all the money behind? That one hundred million Berries!""She's not taking a single cent on the road? That money was what Nami risked her life for..."Facing the shocked Genzo and the doctor, Nojikonodded, confirming it was true."She said money can be stolen again, so it doesn't matter... I tried to persuade her to take some, but she just wouldn't listen. After all, she is someone who never goes back on her word once she says it."After listening to Nojiko's statement, Genzo lowered his head."This fool... the people who should be repaying the debt of gratitude... are us!"Just as they were discussing the matter, Nami's voice came from afar."Everyone, start the ship!"The villagers saw it was Nami coming and all stepped forward, wanting to say a proper goodbye to her."She's running over! What is she planning to do?""Maybe she doesn't want to cry while saying goodbye to everyone or something like that." Speaking of which, Alex looked at Sanji on the side.Knowing that the other party was hinting at him, Sanji couldn't really refute anything. He didn't even look at Nami, simply turning around to face the sea."She told us to start the ship... anyway, let's start the ship first.""Raise the sails!" Following Luffy's order, the sails were opened, revealing the pirate flag of the Straw Hat Pirates.Then they turned the rudder to change the direction of the going merry, heading towards the open sea.The villagers also heard Nami's words and all had a bad feeling."Could this girl... be planning to leave without saying goodbye before we can thank her?""How could that be..."The truth was indeed as they thought; Nami's speed as she approached the crowd didn't slow down, but was even a bit faster than before.Realizing that Nami really wanted to leave without saying goodbye, the villagers tried to dissuade her, and some even wanted to use their bodies to block her."Little Nami, stop!""At least let us thank you properly!""Set sail!", but Luffy's voice seemed to put a period to this farewell.The going merry sailed toward the sea, and it was about to leave Cocoyasi Village."Ah... their ship has started!""Wait! We haven't thanked you properly yet...""Nami, wait, we won't let you leave us without a word!"Genzo even took the lead in blocking Nami's path forward.Unfortunately, with Nami's agile footwork, she didn't let a single person catch her."Hey, is it really appropriate to let her say goodbye this way?""This is what she chose herself, maybe it's her way of thinking.""That's right, let her choose how to say goodbye."Nami arrived at the edge of the port, amidst the villagers' cries of "Little Nami."Nami jumped with all her might, landing on the stern of the going merry."Why..."Just as the villagers were wondering why Nami had left without saying goodbye, Nami lifted her clothes, and a large number of wallets fell out from inside.Seeing this scene, everyone realized something and reached into their pockets."Ah! Huh? My wallet is gone!""Mine is gone too!""Mine too!""Mine too!""And mine!"Looking at Nami, she pulled a banknote from a wallet and smiled at the villagers."Everyone, take care. Heehee!"Seeing this, everyone shouted together at the departing going merry."Little girl! You have such nerve!"Seeing Nami's performance, everyone on the ship had different views of her.Usopp's view of Nami was: "Hey, this girl is truly unique!"Zoro was still angry that she continued to swindle: "Maybe one day we'll be sold by her again."Sanji was still the same: "Miss Nami is amazing——"Luffy laughed hahahaha."Isn't this great? It shows she has opened her heart to us this time." This was Alex's evaluation of Nami.The villagers were still shouting there."You little thief cat!""Come back!""Return my wallet!"Although everyone was shouting, it was more of a plea for them to stay. Sure enough, after the ship sailed out, everyone started asking them not to leave.But what they didn't know was that some birds are just born not to be caged."You are welcome back anytime!""Take care!""We thank you!"Genzo looked at Luffy from afar; Luffy knew what he meant, and without saying much, he directly gave a thumbs up.Nami stood at the stern of the ship, waving goodbye to everyone."Goodbye everyone! I'm leaving!"Watching the departing ship, the villagers were all exhausted and sat down on the spot to rest."Tricked by her! My sister, she really is something. But you must live happily too!"Nojiko watched the departing Nami, wishing for her to live a happy life forever.The doctor and Genzo were discussing Nami's new tattoo."Hey, Genzo, let me show you.""What is this?""This girl forgot the pain once the wound healed and made me tattoo this thing on her again."Genzo took it and saw a windmill mark, with an orange on top."She said it's an orange and a windmill."Genzo looked at the picture in his hand and smiled happily.At this time, Nojiko noticed that the windmill on Genzo's head was gone and hurriedly asked where it went."Huh? Genzo, where is the windmill on your head?""Hehe, it's not needed anymore."In front of the tombstone bearing Nami's adoptive mother, a windmill was inserted, along with an orange.The sky was clear and vast, and a gentle breeze blew.The windmill kept spinning, spinning——
Chapter 83: BountyThe day after leaving Cocoyasi Village, Alex began a new training session.He created three clones, two of which were training their Ninjutsu proficiency.The other was attempting to directly cast a Ninjutsuusing his Bloodline Limit.This scene was watched with great interest by Luffy, who was nearby.Even Sanji leaned in; after all, there wasn't a man alive who didn't like cool moves."Ice Release: Thousand Flying Water Needles of Death!"Countless ice needles appeared in front of the clone, then pierced into the ocean."Great, it worked! Haha, I really am a genius!""Worked? What was that ice just now, Alex?""Hehe, that is the latest Bloodline Limit I've mastered. It's a new nature created by fusing two types of Chakra natures.Oh, I forgot you don't know which natures Chakrahas, so let me explain it simply.There are seven Chakra natures: Fire, Wind, Water, Lightning, Earth, Yin, and Yang.These seven Chakra natures form the Ninjutsu I use, like Fire Release or Water Release.The Ice Release I just used is the product of fusing two types of Chakra natures.For example, Fire plus Earth can form Lava Release, because high heat combined with earth creates magma.Now do you understand why I'm so excited?""So you're saying you have more combat options now, Alex?""That's right, you could say that.""But I'm more concerned about whether this ice is edible.""Of course it is, but ice created by Chakra doesn't last very long."As expected of questions from Zoro and Sanji—one focused on combat, the other on food—not to mention Luffy."Hey, hey, Alex, show us that Ice Release again! Hey, hey... Alex..."It wasn't just Luffy's gaze; even Usopp, who was experimenting nearby, snuck a peek."Alright, I'll show you.""Oh!" Luffy cheered and clapped from the side.Alex went to the side of the ship and began forming hand seals. "Ice Release: Ice Dragon Technique!"A giant ice dragon appeared in front of Alex. It flew forward and then dove headfirst into the sea.Before long, the seawater froze, and the going merry was frozen in place along with it."How about it, Luffy? How was my Ice Release?""Oh! That's so cool! Alex! Alex! Ice Release! Ice Release!""Hehe, enjoy the... Oh no! Body Replacement Technique!"Just as Alex was basking in Luffy's admiring gaze, he vaguely felt a chill.He hurriedly used the Body Replacement Techniqueto get away.The next second, Nami's flying kick arrived right on cue, slamming into Alex's replacement log and kicking both him and Luffy onto the ice.Seeing she hadn't hit Alex, Nami turned her head to look at him."You bastard, Alex! Why did you freeze the ocean!"Seeing Nami's expression, Alex released the Ninjutsu and breathed out flames to speed up the melting of the ice.He also tossed Luffy back onto the ship, but strangely, Nami's kick had somehow given Luffy a huge bump on his head.Curious, Alex went up to Luffy and poked him—poke, poke."Alex, stop poking! It hurts!""Luffy, aren't you a rubber human? Why do you have a bump on your head!""Huh, that's right. I don't know either."This could count as one of the unsolved mysteries of the Straw Hat Pirates.After the ice melted, Alex returned to reading the scroll to learn new techniques.Just then, a seagull landed on the ship. Namistepped forward, took out a coin, and began to interact with it."Why did the price go up again? You're selling these for too much!"The seagull scratched its head, clearly looking at her as if to say, "Are you talking to me?""If you raise the price again next time, I'm not buying."Usopp, who was experimenting nearby, muttered after hearing Nami."It's just a newspaper or two..."Before he could finish, Nami walked over with the newspaper."Sigh, it looks like you don't understand at all. Things you have to buy every day add up to a significant amount.""Didn't your saving plan already end?""Duh! Precisely because the last plan ended... I have to save money for myself now. I don't want to be a penniless pirate, you hear me..."Usopp reached out to interrupt her."Shh, don't make noise. I'm making an 'Exploding Star' right now. This is the first time I've seen this recipe, and it could explode if I'm not careful, so..."Before Usopp could finish, Luffy's body was about to crash into him.Alex was quick-witted and pulled Luffy aside, preventing him from hitting Usopp."Alex, thank you so much! If it weren't for you, our going merry would have been blown in two. And Luffy, what do you think you're doing!"Usopp first moved the explosives aside to thank Alex, then shouted at Luffy."You idiot Luffy, what are you doing? If it weren't for Alex, the going merry would have been destroyed!""Sorry, Usopp." After apologizing to Usopp, Luffyimmediately looked at Sanji."Sanji, I was just eating an orange, don't be so stingy!"It turned out that Sanji had stopped Luffy from eating an orange, which led to Luffy almost bumping into Usopp."No way! This is Nami-san's orange grove! I won't let you touch a single one! Nami-san, my defense of love is impenetrable!""Mm-hmm, thank you, Sanji."Nami replied while flipping through the newspaper."Sigh~ It's over. Sanji has completely fallen for women. Sooner or later, he's going to be killed by a woman."Alex said while eating an orange, and he handed half to Luffy. It must be said, these oranges were quite sweet."That kid is being completely used," Zoro said, lying nearby, echoing Alex's sentiment."Mmm, so delicious.""Ah... Alex, where did you get Nami-san's oranges!""Oh, I picked them just now. Didn't expect them to taste so good.""That's natural. These are oranges Bellemere planted herself, so of course they're delicious. But... the world is in turmoil. There's been another coup in Vira."Nami didn't notice a piece of paper flutter out of the newspaper.Luffy noticed it, picked it up to look at it, while Namilooked at the information in the newspaper with confusion."Ah!" "This, how is this possible!"At the World Government Marine Headquarters, in a conference room, all the personnel meeting there were of rank."So you're saying that, at the very least, the branch... can't deal with this group...""That is correct.""Buggy the Clown has a bounty of 15 million Berries. The Pirate Fleet Admiral, Don Krieg, has a bounty of 17 million Berries. And finally, the Fishman Pirates, Arlong the Saw, has a bounty of 20 million Berries.In the East Blue, where the average bounty is 3 million Berries, three super pirate crews with bounties over 10 million have all been crushed by them.More importantly, this person named Alex has broken through Hawkeye's slash."Major Brandnew took a look at the information on the whiteboard and took out two newly printed wanted posters."For two such dangerous criminals, although it might be a bit much, I have decided.Straw Hat Luffy's initial bounty will be 30 million Berries, and White-haired Xize's bounty will be 30 million Berries.Although this is unprecedented, the price is definitely not high.We must nip these two buds of evil in the bud to prevent endless future trouble."In another hall, crowded with officers, a high-ranking official with many medals was lecturing the Marines below."Those without guts can retreat now! This is a fortress of peace in the pirate era; no cowards are allowed here!The weakness of the common people is not a sin! Justice is here! As long as stubborn evil forces exist on the sea, we Marines must do our utmost to drive them out! In the name of Absolute Justice!""Yes!"Ignoring how the Marines were brainwashing themselves, Luffy was holding his own wanted poster and laughing happily."Wahahaha! We've become wanted criminals, and with a 30 million Berry bounty!""Luffy, you, you should look at this."Nami also came to Luffy's side, holding Alex's wanted poster.The others saw the one Nami was holding."The, the two of them have the same bounty!""What does this mean! Could it be the Marines trying to sow discord!"Because on a pirate ship, if a crew member's bounty exceeds the Captain's, it would definitely spark a war between the two.Of course, that's the general case, but this is the Straw Hat Pirates, and the Captain is Luffy."Wow! It's true! Alex, our bounties are the same. As expected of the person I chose, you're amazing! Hahahaha!"Alex looked at the wanted poster in his hand and muttered to himself; he felt like he had forgotten something.Luffy started fantasizing while holding his and Alex's wanted posters."Our heads are being targeted! With such a huge bounty, the Marine Headquarters will definitely take action! Powerful Bounty Hunterss will also target us..."Usopp came over to look closely and discovered his own image on Luffy's wanted poster, so he pointed at it and bragged to Sanji nearby."Look! That's me! I didn't think I'd see my picture. That means my image has spread all over the world! Maybe I'll charm a lot of people!"Unlike Usopp's fantasies, Sanji was devastated."It's just the back of your head; what's there to brag about? At the very least, you should have a full wanted poster like Alex."But the speed at which he was smoking indicated his inner panic.Usopp increased the level of his mockery from the side."Don't be discouraged, keep at it. Even if you're not the Captain, your face will be published eventually."Nami couldn't stand everyone acting like this."It seems you guys still have no idea how serious this is. We've been wanted, which means a large number of Bounty Hunterss and Marines will attack us. This isn't the time to be relaxing in the East Blue!""Right, the bounty! How did I forget about that!"Alex finally remembered what he had forgotten. He unrolled the scroll, stopped at the character for "Wealth," and then formed hand seals.The next second, a huge pile of Berries appeared before everyone's eyes.Even Zoro was attracted by the huge pile of Berries."Alex, where did you get all these Berries!""So many Berries, where did these come from?""These? I raided the bounty exchange office of the 16th Branch. I forgot about them before, but remembered after seeing the wanted poster."
Chapter 84: The Town of Beginnings and EndingsNami looked at the money and suddenly picked Alex up."Wow, Alex, you're amazing!"Then she put down the dizzy Alex and came into the pile of money to start counting.Luffy and Usopp also leaned in to watch; after all, it was their first time seeing so many Berries.More importantly, these Berries were stolen from the Marine."The count is finished. There are 40 million Berries. It seems our pirate crew can finally be considered wealthy."Hearing there were 40 million Berries, everyone started fantasizing about what to do with the money."That means I can buy two good swords.""Then I also want to buy a set of kitchenware.""I want to buy two bronze statues to put on the bow of the ship!""I also want a set of experimental equipment."Seeing everyone discussing what to buy, Namiwanted to step in and say this was Alex's money.But she was stopped by Alex, so she didn't say anything more."Sigh~ After all, this is your money, do whatever you want with it. But Alex, I also want to buy some clothes.""Alright, everyone come here. It's time to distribute pocket money."After all, supplies on the ship were running low after these days of sailing, so they had to go to town to restock."First is Luffy. I can't let you buy bronze statues, so here is 300,000 Berries for meat.""Next is Zoro, this is 10 million Berries. Although I don't know how much good swords are worth, 5 million per sword should be enough.""Next is Sanji. For kitchenware and ingredients, I'll give you 5 million Berries. Sanji, you don't need to worry about storage for ingredients; I have a scroll for that, but make sure to get plenty, got it?""Next is Usopp. For your experimental equipment plus some materials, 500,000 Berries should be enough.""Finally, Nami. Nami, you..."Before Alex could finish, Nami interrupted him and took two stacks from the pile of money."This is enough.""Aren't you going to buy clothes? Is this really enough?"Nami didn't say anything; she just stuffed the Berries into her clothes and went to the bow to check the route."Alex, thank you so much! Hahahaha!"Luffy hugged Alex like a face-hugger, and Zoro also looked at the Berries beside him, touched the sword at his waist, and smiled."Thanks, Alex."Sanji took a deep drag of his cigarette: "Yeah."At this moment, Sanji couldn't say anything.He originally thought he could get 10,000 or 20,000 Berries to buy a few decent kitchen utensils, but he didn't expect 5 million. It looked like he could buy some good kitchenware.He could even buy more ingredients.Sanji had witnessed the appetites of the two big eaters, Luffy and Alex.As for Usopp, he was also hugging Alex tightly like a sloth."Thank you so much, Alex."Alex made the two get off, put away the remaining Berries, and calculated what he needed to buy.As the news spread, everyone saw that two powerful pirates had appeared in the East Blue.One person arrived here, and that was Hawkeye. He didn't come for anything else but to simply see someone."It's Hawkeye? An unexpected guest, an unexpected guest. I'm in a bad mood right now... Are you here to duel with me?""Hmph, what qualifications does a one-armed man have to talk about dueling with me? I came today because I discovered an interesting pirate crew. This person reminds me of a guy you mentioned."As he spoke, Hawkeye threw Luffy's wanted poster in front of that man.He looked at the wanted poster with a gloomy face, a wicked smile appearing at the corner of his mouth."You've come, haven't you? Luffy!"This person was Red Hair.Then the scene shifted, and others saw another wanted poster."Hey, Boss, look, Luffy's partner has the same bounty as him!""Hahaha, next time we meet him, we can have a good laugh about it, hahaha!"After seeing Alex's wanted poster, Shanks began to fantasize about teasing Luffy when they met next time."Everyone, on such a happy day, let's drink heartily. Come, Hawkeye, you drink too..."Just like the lively atmosphere at Red Hair's place, there was also Luffy's hometown, Foosha Village.The villagers were also cheering loudly for Luffy.At this moment on the going merry, Nami saw the trace of an island in the distance."Everyone, look, I see an island. Judging by the route, there is a very famous town on this island called Loguetown. At the same time, this town is also known as the Town of Beginnings and Endings.""The Town of Beginnings and Endings? What does that mean?"Seeing everyone curious, Alex explained the origin of the name."This town is where the Pirate King, Gol D. Roger, was born. After completing his feat of sailing around the world, he was captured by the Marine. At the same time, he was executed in the place where he was born. That's why it's called the Town of Beginnings and Endings.""The place where the Pirate King was executed...""What about it, Luffy? Do you want to resupply here, or go to another island?""I want to go see it, to see the place where the man who obtained everything was born and died."At this moment, Alex felt a state in Luffy that he had never perceived before.The going merry sailed towards Loguetown. After arriving at the port and securing the ship, everyone headed to the places they wanted to go.As for the task of guarding the ship, that was left to Alex's Shadow Clone.After all, even if the clone was destroyed, the message could be transmitted to Alex's main body.After everyone got off the ship, they were shocked by the scene before them.Houses stood on both sides, and the streets were neat and clean. If it weren't for the presence of Chakra in his body, Alex would have thought he had traveled back to that bustling small county town.No, the number of people here was much larger than in the county town."Wow! Such a big town!""Did the pirate era start from here?"After exclaiming, everyone determined their respective goals.Luffy wanted to see the execution platform. Alexsplit off a clone to follow him to see if he could collect some dried blood or skin debris.Sanji went to buy ingredients.Nami prepared to look at clothes.Usopp went to look for experimental materials or various supplies.Alex and Zoro prepared to go together. Actually, Alex also wanted to see if there were any suitable weapons for himself, but the most important thing was that he was afraid Zoro would get lost.After confirming the goals, everyone split up.Alex and Zoro walked on the street while looking for a weapon shop."Hey, you aren't with that monster today?""Our boss was sent to prison because of you guys! How are you going to compensate us?"Alex turned his head to look at where the voice came from; he was simply curious about who would say such idiotic things.He saw two creatures, one fat and one thin, barely human-shaped, standing in front of a girl and threatening her."...If you still refuse to repent, I am willing to accompany you to the end.""Oh, you are willing to accompany us to the end?""Then come and accompany us!"The two flexed their wrists, took out the weapons from behind, and swung at the girl.The passersby on the side changed color; they didn't expect anyone to dare to kill in the street."Then please tell that monster for us after you die! He ruined our dream of entering the Grand Line!"Zoro on the side put his hand on his sword, looking like he wanted to make a move.But the girl crouched down, drew her sword, and blocked the two's attack.Then she turned and slashed at the two pirates in one go.The battle was over, and it should have been a cool ending.But for some reason, the girl tripped herself and fell to the ground.Her glasses were also knocked off."Ah... it hurts!"The onlookers applauded when they saw the girl's performance.But she was fumbling around on the ground for something. Zoro saw a pair of glasses near his feet, picked them up, and handed them to her."Hey! Are you looking for this?"The girl looked up and fumbled around."Sorry... I'm sorry. Thank you... thank you."After seeing the girl's face, Alex could feel that Zoro's expression had clearly changed.Zoro also pulled Alex directly and left the place quickly to find a weapon shop.Seeing Zoro like this, Alex teased him."What's wrong, Zoro? Did you take a fancy to that little girl?"Zoro's face turned red at a speed visible to the naked eye, and then he stuttered in his reply to Alex."Don't... don't talk nonsense..., Xi... Alex, I don't like her.""I didn't say you liked her, you're the one who misunderstood.""Idiot, that's not it!""Zoro, you still say you don't, here is the weapon shop, you'll pass it if you keep walking forward.""I was just shocked by her appearance, she looks exactly like Kuina.""Is that so..."Alex didn't continue talking, but grabbed Zoro and pointed to the shop next to them, and Zoro pulled Alex in directly.On the other side, everyone found their favorite places. Nami came to a clothing store and started trying on clothes; every piece looked so fitting on her.After trying on more than a dozen pieces, when the boss asked if she wanted to pack them all, Namisaid she liked casual wear and left the clothing store.Then there were Luffy and the clone. They found the execution platform, which stood there."It's the execution platform. Found it... Was the Pirate King executed here? The place where the greatest pirate in history was executed... At the same time, it is also the place where the pirate era began."Luffy looked at everything in front of him, forgetting time and space, forgetting everything.Zoro and Alex walked into the weapon shop, where various weapons were placed on the walls."Welcome!""I want to buy a sword."The boss saw that business had come; with a red nose, he rubbed his hands and put on a smiling face."Welcome, welcome, please take a look around, is there anything you like? I have old swords, new swords, and brand-new swords here, please feel free to look. This shop is a long-established brand that has been in business for two hundred years.""So you have a lot of swords here. In that case, my brother here wants two good ones, the price is around 5 million Berries, how about you help us pick one?"Alex saw the boss's appearance and intended to tease him.But after hearing Alex's words, the boss was shocked. 5 million Berries for a sword, that would be at the level of a Great Grade Sword at the very least.His shop could have a few Skillful Grade Swords at most."Hahaha, this customer is joking. We don't have that price range here, why don't you take a look?""Alright, let's take a look ourselves."Alex stopped teasing him and started looking around with Zoro.Unfortunately, none of the weapons on this wall could catch their eyes.
The weapon shop owner, named Ippon-matsu, found it amusing to watch Alex and Zoro as they browsed for weapons.The green-haired one was fine; he would take them out to examine them, but that white-haired kid just placed his hand on the weapons and that was it. What was he doing? Was he trying to be funny?These were the thoughts running through Ippon-matsu's mind, but when he saw the weapon at Zoro's waist, his eyes widened significantly."Hey, kid, would you mind letting me see the sword at your waist?"Zoro didn't hear him and continued picking out blades, while Alex, as if he had sensed something, walked over to a stack of barrels filled with weapons.Seeing that Zoro was completely ignoring him, the owner walked over himself."Kid, could... could you let me see the sword at your waist?"Only then did Zoro notice the owner approaching. Seeing the look of disbelief on the man's face, he took out his sheathed sword and placed it in the owner's hands.Ippon-matsu took it and gave it a quick look. Not bad. It really was a famous sword. He hadn't expected these two blockheads to be carrying a famous sword. Now, let's see how I can swindle it from them."Tsk, this sword of yours isn't great. How about you sell it to me? I'll offer you 850,000 Berries.""I'm telling you, no matter how much you offer, I'm not selling!""Wait a second, kid, we can still talk about this. 850,000 Berries not enough? How about one million? If that doesn't work, just name your price..."On the other side, Alex heard their conversation and walked over.Just as he was about to reason with the owner, the weapon shop's door opened, and a figure darted in."Ah—this sword! Could it be!"When the owner saw this woman, he knew his plan had gone down the drain.Ippon-matsu kept praying in his heart that she wouldn't say it, but unfortunately, things didn't go as he hoped."This sword is wado ichimonji, isn't it?"Zoro looked at her. He didn't understand why this girl knew the name of his sword, or even that this sword had a name."What a beautiful straight blade..."The owner watched from the side, wanting to argue, but Alex walked over and gently placed his hand on the counter. A second later, a palm print appeared right in front of the owner.This was a clear signal for him to shut up.Ippon-matsu had no choice but to obediently shut his mouth and listen to the young lady continue."It's truly beautiful!""May I ask what wado ichimonji means? Is that the name of this sword?"Alex's voice pulled her attention away from the sword."Ah! I'm sorry, it's my first time seeing such a beautiful sword. As for wado ichimonji, it is one of the 21 Great Grade Swords."Great Grade Swords. It seems the weapons here have rankings, though I don't know how they are classified. I also wonder where Hawkeye's black sword, Yoru, stands."By the way, look here." The young woman took out a small notebook and started flipping through it."Right here, the market price for this sword is around ten million Berries. Of course, it could be worth more; this is just a reference price."Ippon-matsu's face turned green. He had finally encountered two fools carrying a treasure sword, only for someone to come and ruin it.He was afraid that if she kept talking, Zoro and the other guy would leave.Ippon-matsu slammed his hand on the table: "You annoying woman, you've ruined everything! I'm going to report you for interfering with business! Damn it!""Ah... wait! Interfering with business? I'm sorry, did I say something I shouldn't have?""Owner, don't get angry. Even though we don't know the names of these swords, we aren't some clueless fools. You trying to scam us out of our sword isn't something that can be resolved with just a few words. Also, although my friend doesn't like to explain things, he knows what a good sword is. I won't say anything more."Zoro nodded from the side and then sheathed wado ichimonji back into his waist sash.The owner realized that although these two lacked knowledge, their judgment was sharp; they could tell a good sword from a bad one by using it. Knowing he couldn't scam them, he huffed in frustration and brought out a long sword."You're here to pick up Shigure, right! I've sharpened it for you! Tch, a weakling swordsman like you actually carrying such a treasure sword."The girl took the sword and wobbled, bumping into a sword rack nearby."Why did you bump into that? Leave your substitute sword and get out! And you two, if you haven't picked anything you like, go somewhere else. But if I don't have what you want here, no other weapon shop will either."Zoro looked confused; he didn't know why the owner was so angry.But whatever, he should just look for a sword to carry, otherwise, having only one sword really felt uncomfortable.Zoro took a look and picked out two decent-quality swords to pay for.Meanwhile, Alex went back to the stack of barrels and reached out to sense them.The young woman, who had climbed up from the sword rack, finally got a clear look at them: "Huh, aren't you two the ones from the street?"When she saw Zoro holding two swords to pay, she remarked: "You really like swords, don't you? Using three swords, you're just like a certain Bounty Hunters from before!""Bounty Hunters?""Don't tell me it's Roronoa Zoro!"Zoro wondered who else used three swords; he had never heard of anyone else.Alex then spoke Zoro's name."Hey, you haven't heard of him? Yes, yes, that's him.""Oh, I've heard of him.""It's more than just hearing of him. I see you two have a pretty good relationship."Zoro glanced at Alex, and seeing he was still searching around, he stopped paying attention to him.The young woman didn't pick up on Alex's teasing and continued to badmouth the person in question."That's right, that name is known to everyone in the East Blue, but it's an infamous reputation. He actually uses swords as a tool to make money! It's unforgivable!""Young lady, then what do you think a sword should be like? A swordsmith crafts a good weapon in the hope that the user can win with it; making money is merely to..."Before Alex could finish, she interrupted him."That's not it. I'm just wondering why these swords fall into the hands of those evil people. Famous swordsmen either become pirates or Bounty Hunterss. And all the famous swords in the world are in their hands; these swords are crying."Alex found this opinion somewhat amusing, but he held back and asked what she thought."Every sword makes a name for itself alongside its user; whether it's an infamous or good reputation, it's all part of their history. You want to deny everything these people have created with just one sentence? That's a bit arrogant. Besides, how do you plan to take those swords back? By just talking about it, or by taking them back by force!"Alex's words left the young woman stunned, while Zoro explained that there was nothing wrong with the profession."Well, they have their own reasons, don't they? Professions are just products of the times..."On the contrary, the owner liked what Alex said."The little white-haired brother over there is right; I actually welcome evildoers! In the past, many people who wanted to enter the Grand Line came to support my business. But ever since that monster cut this town off from the rest of the world, my business has plummeted. It's absolutely terrible luck!""I... I know a lot of what I said was wrong, but I definitely won't just talk about it. I will use my own strength to defeat them and then confiscate their weapons. In any case... as a swordsman wielding Shigure! I will continue to train hard in the future! One day... I will take back all the famous swords that have fallen into the hands of villains across the world! Even if it costs me my life, I will take back the 12 Supreme Grade Swords, the 21 Great Grade Swords, the 50 Skillful Grade Swords... and Mr. Smoker is not a monster!""He is a Devil Fruit user! He's just a big monster!"Ippon-matsu's casual remark made Alex take note of this person; it seemed the person stationed here was also a Devil Fruit user.Hearing that she wanted to seize treasure swords, Zoro, who was standing nearby, gripped his sword and looked at her."Are you going to seize this sword too? After all, this sword is called wado ichimonji...""Huh? Ah... no, you've misunderstood. I don't want to possess these famous swords... I just don't want them to fall into the hands of villains...""Zoro, come over here and take a look at this sword."Alex's words interrupted the two of them, and Zoro, who was about to pay, was also drawn over. After all, although Alex didn't know much about swords, his perception of treasures was stronger than his own.The young woman also craned her neck to look, wanting to see what kind of sword Alex had found.Upon seeing it, it was clear: the hilt of this sword was bright red, the scabbard was dark red, and the whole thing exuded an eerie feeling."Hey, I've seen this sword in a book..."Zoro took it and began to examine it. Not bad; it was a decent cursed sword.The young woman flipped through the book of famous swords and found the entry for this blade."That's right, the one in your hand is sandai kitetsu! This is an amazing treasure sword. The predecessor to this sword, Nidai Kitetsu, is a Great Grade Sword, and Shodai Kitetsu is a Supreme Grade Sword!"Alex's eyes widened quite a bit upon hearing this; he hadn't expected to find some real goods here.The young woman looked around this place in confusion; it looked like a junk shop, so why was such a good sword being kept here?"Owner, why is this sword being kept here? And how much is this sword?""Yeah, owner, how much for this sword?""No way, I will absolutely not sell it. You can give up on that idea!"Faced with the inquiries from Alex and the other, the owner refused to sell it no matter what."Why?""Yeah, that's right. You're running a business, so why wouldn't you sell it?"Zoro drew sandai kitetsu and held it in his hand; after feeling it, he understood the owner's actions."Is it because it's a cursed sword?"The owner was a bit shocked; he hadn't expected the other party to know about this."Kid, have you heard of it?""No, I can feel it.""...Not bad! You're right. The Kitetsu line, headed by Shodai Kitetsu, are all treasure swords. But they are all cursed swords! Furthermore, those famous swordsmen who possessed a Kitetsu all met with untimely deaths. To this day, there isn't a single swordsman in the world who uses a Kitetsu. Even those who used a Kitetsu without knowing the full story are all dead now! I've wanted to get rid of these things for a long time, just because I'm afraid of its curse!"