Chapter 102: The Comical DuoUnder the moonlight, Zoro, holding his dual swords, looked like a demon.Looking at the Bounty Hunters below, Zoro gripped his dual swords tightly."Two-Sword Style… Hawk Wave!"The powerful strike shattered the ground; although it didn't look like anything was wrong on the surface, underneath, the ground was already crumbling.The group of Bounty Hunterss didn't want to fight Alex anymore and chose to face Zoro instead.Men and women alike, they brandished their respective weapons and attacked Zoro from the air.Zoro didn't pay any mind to this attack, instead turning around to leave while leaving behind one sentence."Watch out, that place has already been split open by me."The group fell directly into the spot where the Hawk Wave had struck just moments ago.Immediately after, Zoro felt a murderous intent coming from behind him.He crouched down to dodge the attack, and with a bang, an explosion went off beside Zoro.Seeing that he wasn't injured, Zoro lay on the ground and sighed."That was close, it grazed right past my head."The person who ambushed him was Miss Monday. Seeing Zoro dodge her attack, she immediately put down the wooden ladder in her hand and climbed directly onto Zoro's back.She then put on brass knuckles and swung her right fist hard at Zoro's head."Extraordinary Strength! Take this punch!"This powerful strike hit Zoro directly, and even the ground beneath him cracked open.Seeing Miss Monday land a hit on Zoro, Mr.8 thought the battle was over."What a waste of ti… *cough cough*. Ma~~ Ma~~ What a waste of time. Next, I have to deal with that white-haired brat."Just as Mr.8 was about to turn and leave, he heard a scream."Mommy! Aaaaaah!"The other Bounty Hunterss saw Zoro gripping Miss Monday's face with one hand, while the woman knelt on the ground in pain.Seeing this scene, Mr.8, who had just been about to leave, felt incredulous: "What!"Zoro looked at her with a sullen face: "What's wrong? You woman who thinks she's so strong. Didn't you want to test your strength against mine?"As Zoro pressed down firmly with his palm, the woman fainted, foaming at the mouth.The Bounty Hunterss on the side shouted: "Waaaaah! Miss Monday lost!""Impossible! This is impossible!"It seemed they still couldn't believe that this woman had been defeated.Alex walked behind the stunned Bounty Hunterss and slammed both hands onto the ground.Earth Release: Earth CorridorA large amount of earth rose up from around the Bounty Hunterss, sealing them inside.Seeing Alex take care of the remaining Bounty Hunterss so easily, Zoro was a bit unhappy."Alex, didn't we agree on fifty each?"Regarding Zoro's words, Alex calmly replied: "Well, well, don't be angry, Zoro. These three must be officers. Since you've defeated one, I'll give you two, and I'll take care of the last one."Hearing the other side treating them like goods to be selected as opponents, the three of them became angry.However, amidst their anger, they were also thinking: "That white-haired brat has already shown the strength of 30 million Berries. The other one hasn't appeared on any bounty list, but his strength is clearly also very high. Why is that?"Suddenly, Mr.8 thought of something: "I understand, I understand, so that's it, the mystery is solved. The Marine must have gotten the bounty poster wrong!"Hearing Mr.8's words, Mr.9, who was nearby, also started thinking and realized that what the other person said was absolutely correct."Yeah, that explains it. Since that white-haired brat showed the strength of 30 million Berries, he must be the Captain. He probably used some ability to disguise himself as a crew member to drive up his bounty. It seems these two are the strongest on the ship, and as for that guy wearing the straw hat, he's probably just a decoy."Ms. Wednesday also felt that what Mr.8 and Mr.9 said was absolutely correct."I see… But now we know… Know yourself and know your enemy to fight better… Right?""Exactly. Think about that dazed look. Is that guy's head really worth 30 million Berries?"At this moment, Luffy was still sleeping in the room, muttering in his sleep: "Mmm—is that piece of meat left over?"It seems he still wasn't full.But after seeing Alex take action and defeat all the remaining Bounty Hunterss, Mr.8 shook his head and sighed."But we really have made fools of ourselves… To actually lose to a mere swordsman and a white-haired brat. Entrusted by the Boss to manage this place, this situation is a matter of responsibility."While counting, Mr.8 took out his saxophone again, aimed it at Zoro and Alex in front, and pulled the trigger again, sending a barrage of bullets flying out."Spike Cannon!"Seeing this, Alex immediately stepped forward, quickly formed hand seals, and slammed both hands onto the ground."Zoro, step back! Earth Release: Earth-Style Wall!"A wall of earth rose from the ground, blocking the opponent's attack.After blocking the attack, Zoro drew yubashiri. Before Alex could even dispel the Ninjutsu, he slashed through the Earth-Style Wall and rushed out.Upon seeing Zoro appear, Mr.9 yelled, "Go, Ms. Wednesday!" "Understood, Mr.9!"Ms. Wednesday blew a whistle: "Come on, Karoo—"A giant duck ran out from the side. It quacked, "Quack!" and then raised its wings.Seeing this, Ms. Wednesday couldn't help but retort: "Not raise your hand, I meant come over here!"Karoo ran to Ms. Wednesday and crouched down, and she took the opportunity to ride onto Karoo's back.Then Ms. Wednesday introduced her partner to Zoro. "Come on, Karoo, let him experience your leg strength that surpasses that of a leopard!" "Quack! Quack!"After she finished speaking, Karoo actually sat down. Ms. Wednesday hit the back of Karoo's head: "Who told you to sit down!"Zoro stood there blankly, not understanding the point of what they were doing. "…What was that…"Just then, Mr.9 stood on a high point nearby and shouted at Zoro: "Hahaha, is it okay for you to be looking around like that? Can you handle my acrobatic special move?"Then he tumbled down from the high building. "Take this, Passion Nine: Perseverance Iron Bat!"Using the force of the tumble, he swung the metal baseball bat in his hand, smashing it down at Zoro's head. But Zoro easily blocked it.Seeing his attack blocked, Mr.9 flipped over Zoro's head and laughed loudly. "Haha, mine is a metal iron bat. You better be careful not to break the blade in your hand."Zoro stood there motionless with a speechless expression.Seeing the opponent not moving, Mr.9 laughed even harder. "Hahahaha! Why did your face go pale? Are you too scared to move?"On the other side, Alex, taking advantage of everyone's focus being on Zoro, entered the ground.He then stealthily moved through the earth to beneath Mr.8's feet, reached out and grabbed the opponent's ankle, and used Earth Release: Headhunter Jutsu to trap him firmly in the ground.Afterward, Alex emerged from the ground, looked at the trapped Mr.8, and asked, "How about it? You can't move now, can you?"The trapped Mr.8 had only his head left exposed above the ground, with the rest of his body firmly trapped underground. In response to Alex's question, he just snorted coldly and said nothing more.Seeing the opponent not speaking, Alex watched Zoro's battle, but this kind of scene was too boring for him. "Go for it, Zoro. I'm already done here; you're the only one left."Seeing Alex resolve his opponent so easily, Zorosighed. Compared to that curly-haired man, these two opponents of his were just too bizarre.Then Zoro lifted sandai kitetsu and held the tip of the blade against the opponent's neck.Seeing the attack coming, Mr.9 used the iron bat in his hand to deflect sandai kitetsu. "Ya! Ah! Ha!"He swung the two iron bats in his hands, clashing with Zoro's single-handed blade. Never mind Alex, even a fool could see that Zoro was just playing around, since the opponent only had the ability to parry.Zoro also saw through the opponent's true strength and then began to tease him. "What's wrong? Can't you perform your best acrobatic moves?"Seeing the opponent humiliate him like this, Mr.9 retorted. "Since you want to see, I'll let you witness it."After saying that, he did a front flip, jumped high into the air, and then smashed the baseball bat in his hand toward Zoro.Zoro saw this, blocked it with one hand, and then exerted force with his arm, knocking the opponent into the sky. Accompanied by a scream, Mr.9 officially exited.Just as Zoro was sighing that there was no one stronger, a figure ran over, stopped behind Zoro, and said to him, "The stronger person is me! Prepare to die, Mr. Bushido!"Zoro turned his head to see that it was Ms. Wednesday, who was currently wearing clothes covered in patterns and standing on the duck named Karoo.Then she looked at Zoro seductively: "Come on, stare closely at my body, Charm: Memaia Dance!"After she finished, she raised her hands above her head and started shaking, while her body also swayed from side to side.Alex looked at her and retorted: "Isn't this just the hand-waving dance? When did that spread here?"But Zoro only watched for a moment before he felt his head swelling, and then he sat down on the ground.Seeing Zoro fall to the ground, Ms. Wednesday sat back onto Karoo. Then she said in that seductive tone: "Hehe, good boy!"Subsequently, she pulled out a weapon of unknown origin from her hair. This item had a small ring that went on the pinky finger, a wire in the middle, and a gem-shaped pendant at the bottom.After putting on the weapon, Ms. Wednesday spun around. "Peacock Slash! Charge, Karoo!"Zoro, holding his head, saw the opponent's attack and was just about to dodge, but realized there was no need. Because Ms. Wednesday and Karoo had passed over Zoro and were running off into the distance.Ms. Wednesday roared at Karoo: "You're running the wrong way, hurry up and stop!" Unfortunately, Karoo didn't listen and kept running forward.Seeing this, Zoro sighed again: "…Fighting these guys, I feel embarrassed myself…"Then Zoro came to Alex's side, saw Mr.8 trapped on the ground, and asked Alex. "What do we do next?""This counts as the battle being over, so let's…" Before Alex could finish, a chain flew toward Zoro's arm.
Chapter 103: Sudden ChangeA steel cable suddenly appeared, tightly binding Zoro's left arm.Following the chain, he discovered the source was that Mr. 9 who had been sent flying by Zoro."How about that, swordsman! You actually made me look this pathetic! I won't let you get away with this!"Zoro looked at the man clutching his face; he really didn't want to talk to this kind of person.Meanwhile, Alex, standing to the side, slapped his thigh and burst into laughter."Hahaha, Zoro, is this really your opponent? It's just too funny, hahaha.""Shut up, Alex. And you, it seems like you fell down there yourself, didn't you!""Enough nonsense, let me show you the power of my ultimate technique, the Flying Combination Iron Bat!"As he spoke, he tried to yank Zoro away, but found he couldn't move him at all. To avoid embarrassment, he had to force an explanation."Hahahaha, how's that, swordsman? I've already bound one of your arms! Take advantage of this and finish him off, Mr. 8!"Unfortunately, no one responded to him.Alex kicked the guy next to him who was buried in the ground."Are you talking about this guy?"At this moment, Mr. 9 turned his head and saw Mr. 8 with his body buried in the ground.While pulling on the iron chain, he asked, "You... how did you end up like this?"Mr. 8, with only his head exposed, said with an embarrassed expression."I was, was, *cough*... Ma~~ Ma~~ I was ambushed by this guy."Hearing this, Alex called him out."What do you mean I ambushed you? Even in a 1-on-1, you're no match for me."However, Mr. 8 looked at Alex with a disdainful expression.To be honest, Alex knew this was a provocation, but he couldn't stand being provoked by someone he had already defeated."Fine, fine, fine, I'll let you go, let's have a real fight!"Saying that, Alex released the technique, allowing Mr. 8 to stand up from the soil.Once out, Mr. 8 first brushed the dust off his body, then began to make some small moves.Seeing the opponent come out, Zoro looked at Alexwith an expression of disbelief."Hey, are you an idiot! You can't even see such an obvious provocation!""Of course I know it's a provocation, but I just can't stand it!"Just as Alex and Zoro were arguing, Mr. 8 suddenly turned around and pulled the bowtie on his neck.The next second, several cannons appeared from his curly hair, their dark muzzles pointed at Alex and Zoro."Although I thank you for saving me, go to hell! Prepare to fire! Spiked Ball Trumpet!"Facing the incoming cannonballs, Alex didn't panic.After all, he had activated his Sharingan beforehand to stare intently at the opponent; none of his subsequent small movements escaped Alex's sight.Sand appeared in front of him at that moment, blocking the cannonball attack; not even the wind from the explosion moved a single strand of his hair.Seeing Alex use sand, Mr. 8 was stunned for a moment, but it was only for an instant.On Zoro's side, with just a slight tug, he sent Mr. 9 flying into the air.Then he slammed him heavily onto the ground; this time, he was truly knocked unconscious.On the other side, seeing the opponent stop attacking, Alex exerted force with his feet and instantly arrived in front of him.He infused Chakra into his right fist and then smashed it down with force.Mr. 8 is out!"Neither of you move!"Alex and Zoro turned around and discovered it was Ms. Wednesday, who had escaped riding a strange duck, returning.In her hand, she was holding Luffy, who had eaten until he was round like a ball.Seeing Luffy in her hands, Alex and Zoro didn't act."Very good, if you two dare to move again, your partner here will lose his life."However, Zoro and Alex were not worried about Luffy's situation.Alex used the Body Flicker Technique to appear before her and kicked the sword out of her hand.Zoro also circled around to her front and struck her forehead hard with the back of his blade.Looking at the three unconscious people, Alexfinally said what he wanted to say earlier."I guess it's over this time, Zoro."Zoro leaned against a broken wall and looked up at the moon."Yeah, I guess it's over. By the way, Alex, what are you going to do about those people inside the rocks?"Alex knew what Zoro was talking about, so he turned to look."Just leave them there; the technique will automatically wear off before long anyway."Suddenly, a Sea Otter and a vulture stopped in front of Zoro and Alex."What kind of animal is this that even wears sunglasses?""Don't know, but they don't look like anything good.""Should we just slaughter them?""Forget it, it has nothing to do with us; just chase them away."Alex then threw a shuriken to drive them away.However, the Sea Otter actually picked up a seashell in its hand and blocked the attack.Seeing this, both realized something was wrong. After all, ordinary beasts would dodge, but this one blocked; they were clearly trained."Hehe, interesting."Saying that, Alex went to the few people who were still conscious and lifted them up."Hey, asking you something, do you know what these two things are?"The man struggled to keep his eyes open, lifted his head to look, and found it was a Sea Otter and a vulture.Then he cried out in horror: "Dam... damn it, quick, little brother, quickly kill them...""Whether to kill them or not can wait, tell me first, what are these two guys?"The man swallowed his saliva and then shouted in a panic."These two guys are the Unluckies, that vulture is Mr. 13, and the Sea Otter is Ms. Friday."Hearing the explanation, plus the unique name, Alexunderstood what was going on with these two animals."So, are these two here to silence witnesses or to collect intelligence?""Probably to silence witnesses..."Zoro sat to the side, drinking from some booze he'd pulled from who knows where, and replied to Alex's question.And Mr. 8, who had just been knocked unconscious by Alex, actually woke up when he heard "The Unluckies."One can only say that the physical fitness of the people in this world is too strong."Ha... *cough* *cough*... *cough*... How can I die here... I still shoulder... an important mission!"After saying that, he struggled to crawl up from the ground.Unfortunately, neither of them paid attention to him, but stared intently at the Unluckies.And as Zoro had said, the two of them revealed their weapons, intending to eliminate the enemies in front of them.Just as Alex was about to weave hand signs, a voice interrupted the two animals' actions."Hold on, it's already the middle of the night, this town is really lively.""... *cough*... To be transferred to this front line for such a trivial matter... it's really like using a butcher's knife to kill a chicken..."Seeing the two appear, Alex was speechless; why were more people coming?"Hey, who are you two, and what is your purpose for coming here?"The two people: the man wore a pair of sunglasses, had an afro, and dark skin.The woman wore a small hat, with lemon-style earrings hanging on both sides, giving an overall refreshing feeling.The man said in a low tone: "Mr. 5"And the lady introduced herself in a rather playful tone: "Ms. Valentine."You don't need to think twice to know these names; they are definitely enemies.However, after Mr. 8 heard the two finish their self-introductions, cold sweat dripped from his forehead."Mr. 5! Ms. Valentine! How could you come here!""It seems your relationship isn't very good." Alexlooked at the curly-haired uncle with schadenfreude.However, neither of them responded to Alex's words.The man, Mr. 5, glanced at the battlefield and sighed."It's truly miserable! With so many of you, you actually lost to a swordsman and a little boy."The man with the afro glanced at the battlefield and then at Mr. 8 lying on the ground, saying indifferently."Are you messing around?"On the other side, the girl held an umbrella and looked at the four people on the ground."Yahahaha! To be beaten into such a state, is this the gap between you and us?"Mr. 8 asked, panting heavily: "...Are you here specifically to mock us?"Mr. 5 nodded: "Hmm, that is indeed part of it."However, Ms. Valentine on the side stated the purpose of their trip."Yahahaha! How is that possible? We are here to carry out a mission, of course."Hearing that the two were here to carry out a mission, Mr. 8 let out a long sigh."*Cough*... Hahaha! Great... If you can help us, those guys won't be enemies anymore."Ms. Wednesday and Mr. 9, who had been knocked out by Zoro, also woke up and sat on the ground, supporting their bodies.However, Mr. 5's expression changed after hearing Mr. 8's words.He said impatiently: "...? Don't play such boring jokes with me!"It seems their goal was not Zoro and Alex.After hearing this, Mr. 8 and Ms. Wednesday both showed expressions of panic.Ms. Valentine continued to mock them: "You want me to assist you? Don't joke around. Do you think we would come all the way to this beginning of the Grand Line for such trivial matters? Yahahaha!"Hearing the other party say this, Mr. 9 asked them: "...What?...Then what is your mission exactly..."Hearing this, Mr. 5 couldn't believe it: "Do you have no clue at all? Think carefully, what kind of crime would alarm the Boss to specifically send us here?"Ms. Valentine on the side continued to remind everyone: "The Boss said this to us: 'My secret has been discovered.' Of course, we don't know what kind of secret it is."Only when they heard this did Mr. 9 begin to think.But Mr. 5 continued to explain: "And don't forget, our company's motto is 'Mystery'... No one is allowed to investigate the origins of anyone in the company. Let alone investigate the Boss's true identity."Hearing this, Mr. 8 and Ms. Wednesday both looked grim, and at the same time, they prayed in their hearts that their secret would not be discovered.Unfortunately, Ms. Valentine's next words completely plunged the two into an abyss."After the Boss learned that someone was investigating his identity, he ordered us to conduct counter-intelligence. Therefore, we discovered something interesting.""Important personnel from a certain kingdom have already infiltrated our Baroque Works."Hearing this, Mr. 8 and Ms. Wednesday were convinced that they had been exposed.
Chapter 104: Princess ViviOn the other side, after hearing what the two were saying, Mr.9 immediately waved his hand to indicate it was not him."Ah... wait! Although I am wearing a crown, I am definitely not the king!"Ms. Valentine also knew it was not him, so she told him to shut up, while casting her gaze toward Ms. Wednesday on the side.Alex, who was watching from the side, knew that there was a lot of juicy gossip to be had here.Zoro was sitting beside Alex, drinking and sighing: "This is really interesting, isn't it, Alex?""Yeah, it is indeed interesting, but Luffy is still down there."Mr.5 then stated the identity of the sinners: "The names of the sinners are, the currently missing from Alabasta..."Before he could finish, Mr.8's attack followed closely."Go to hell! Spiky Curly!"Alex also took advantage of the gap in their attacks to bring Luffy into the hut nearby.Then he turned back around to continue watching.When that Mr.5 saw the cannonball flying over, he didn't panic in the slightest, nor did he dodge or defend; he just stood there straight.The cannonball hit his body, creating a powerful explosion."Oh, how impressive, he actually didn't dodge, but it seems he isn't afraid of explosions?"Alex saw the situation in the smoke through the Byakugan; the man who called himself Mr.5 was standing in place, completely unharmed.Suddenly, Ms. Wednesday, who was beside Mr.9, shouted at Mr.8: "Igaram!"This sound made Mr.9 confused as to why his partner would call Mr.8 Igaram; could he be the person these people were talking about?Before he could finish thinking, he heard Mr.8 yell: "Please, hurry and escape!""It's useless. Yahahahaha!" It turned out Ms. Valentine had dodged Igaram's attack.Then she jumped into the air again to launch an attack on Ms. Wednesday.With just one kick, she sent Ms. Wednesday flying, and the hairband holding her hair was kicked into pieces.Her tightly tied hair fell loose, and the corners of her eyes slowly changed from the previous upturned look to become more relaxed.The whole person transformed from a woman with a very worldly air into the appearance of a refined young lady.Then she attacked fiercely backwards, but unfortunately, Ms. Valentine easily dodged her attack.An explosion suddenly came from Igaram's side; he was severely injured by this sudden explosion.Alex saw the situation and couldn't help but sigh: "How disgusting."Seeing Igaram fall to the ground, Ms. Wednesdaylet out a cry.Unfortunately, the other party was already unconscious and unable to respond to her call.As the explosion's smoke cleared, Mr.5 stood in place, completely unharmed, and continued to tell the content he hadn't finished earlier, while also taking a photo out from his bosom."The names of the sinners are, Alabasta Kingdom Guard Captain Igaram and... Alabasta Kingdom Princess Nefertari Vivi."In the photo, Nefertari Vivi was wearing gorgeous clothes and jewelry, standing on the city wall waving down.But at this moment, she was sitting on the ground, covered in dust.Her appearance in the photo stood in stark contrast to her current image.Clearly, the photo showed what a princess of a country should look like.And Vivi discovered that the other party was completely unharmed, and couldn't help but say: "Monster!""Wow, I didn't expect this girl to actually be a princess."Alex looked beside him and found that Zoro was still there drinking.Obviously, Zoro didn't care much about this; after all, whether it was a princess or a prince, it was all the same to him."What a terrible night; princess or whatever, let them make as much trouble as they want, it has nothing to do with us."When it was revealed that Ms. Wednesday was truly a princess, she immediately knelt down.Seeing this scene, Nefertari Vivi asked the other person: "What are you doing? Mr.9.""I didn't expect you to actually be a princess, so I am performing the kowtow ritual."However, Mr.5 didn't care about this; he started picking his nose. Seeing this, Alex knew what the other party was about to do.Mr.5 said while picking his nose: "In the name of the Baroque Works boss, I will eliminate you two!""Don't underestimate people!" Vivi pulled out her Peacock Slashers, put them on her fingers, and started spinning them, looking like she was going to face the enemy head-on.However, a figure appeared in front of her; it was Mr.9."Although I don't understand what is going on... but we have been partners for so long, it counts as an old friendship. I'll help you buy some time! Hurry and go, Ms. Wednesday."Seeing his figure, Vivi shouted: "Mr.9!""Goodbye, baby."Then he waved his iron bat and charged up."Hot-Blooded Nine: Perseverance Iron Bat!"Vivi also knew she couldn't let him down, so she turned and fled from here.Watching Mr.9 attack, Mr.5 continued to pick his nose boogers and sighed."Heh... all we need is the will to complete the mission. Boring loyalty like yours will only bring about your own destruction... But I guess you will only realize this when death is at your doorstep!"After speaking, he rolled the booger he picked into a small ball, fixed it between his fingers, and aimed at the opponent: "Nose Fancy: Rapid Fire!"Mr.9, who was about to attack with his baseball bat raised high, was blown away by this sudden booger explosion.Although Vivi had fled, she was physically exhausted and didn't get very far.Zoro saw the whole process clearly and couldn't help but sigh: "Hey, hey, this booger is dangerous..."Suddenly, his ankle was grabbed; it turned out that at some point, Igaram had arrived beside the two and grabbed their legs."Hey, what are you doing?""Yeah, what are you doing? Also, let's get this straight, even if you try to pull a scam, I won't give you any money."After Igaram coughed up some blood, his breathing became smoother.He grabbed their legs tightly and begged."...Two heroes! After witnessing your strength, I have a request!"Zoro quickly waved his hands: "Don't ask me, who cares about you, let go!"Alex also quickly broke free: "Don't forget that we were opponents just now; who would suddenly help an enemy?"Not knowing what was going on, Luffy sneezed, scratched his nose, turned over, and continued to sleep.But Igaram didn't say anything else and continued to plead with the two."I beg you, those two guys are people with special abilities. I cannot stop them! Therefore, can you please protect the princess for me! I beg you!"Igaram looked at the two with a sincere face, but unfortunately, it was of no use.The two still stood there unmoved.On the other side, Vivi had already mounted her duck."Karoo! Run!"Watching Vivi escape, Ms. Valentine said calmly: "Yahahahaha! She has escaped."Mr.5 responded coldly: "Rest assured, she won't be able to escape. Let's chase, Ms. Valentine.""Mm-hmm, Mr.5! Yahahahaha!"Here, Igaram continued to grab the two's thighs, begging them to help.This time he was not prepared to play the emotional card, but wanted to offer a heavy reward to ask them to help him."Two heroes, as long as you can safely escort the princess to the distant great eastern country of Alabasta... *cough*... you will receive a large reward... So I beg you, no matter what, please save the princess..."Zoro shook his leg vigorously to break free from the other party: "Be careful or I'll slash you again!"Alex also shook his leg to make the other person let go."A huge reward, is that true?"A familiar figure appeared not far away.Alex and Zoro looked over and found Nami sitting there."I'm interested in this job. How about 1 billion Berries?""One... one billion Ber... *cough*! Ma~~ Ma~~ Ma~~ Ma~~"Igaram was shocked by Nami's words; he didn't expect someone to open with one billion. He coughed while adjusting his voice."Hey~ Nami, why are you here?""Yeah, weren't you passed out drunk!"Hearing Alex and Zoro's questions, Nami looked at the two with a look of looking at idiots."I mean... this town is so welcoming to pirates, and encountering such strange things, could I really get drunk in peace? That was just acting; I could drink even more. Not to mention that both of you are awake, I couldn't really get drunk.""Oh—so that's how it is!""I see, it was a smokescreen~"Nami didn't pay much attention to the two and looked at Igaram lying on the ground to continue the transaction from just now."— — So, are you willing to give me one billion Berries? Captain of the Guard. Also, one more thing, if we don't step in to help, the princess will definitely lose her life."After listening to Nami's words, Igaram stated: "I am just a small soldier, how dare I agree to such a high amount..."Nami interrupted the other party: "Hmm? So, is a princess of a country not even worth this much money? You should just pay it."Igaram was choked by her words, making choking sounds.Alex, seeing Nami's negotiation skills, clapped his hands from the side."How impressive.""Isn't this just taking advantage of someone in trouble? What's so impressive about that.""What I'm praising is Nami's thick skin; you have to know that her strength can't beat the opponent, but she dares to agree, it's all because she's counting on us two."Hearing this, the corner of Zoro's right eye began to twitch.Seeing that the other party wouldn't budge without money, but he couldn't agree to such a large amount, he had to think of another way."*Cough*... Then, if the princess is safely returned to the kingdom! Let's discuss it directly with the princess then! Only in this way can it be guaranteed!"Nami understood the meaning behind his words; simply put, it meant he had no money."...In other words, you want us to save her first."It seemed his strategy had been discovered by the other party; Igaram's skin wasn't as thick as Nami's.He could only lower his head and nod."Do you know? While we are talking here... the princess's life has probably already been... by them..."Nami didn't finish her sentence, and Igaram also knew that if they were any later, the princess would really die.Alex saw the distance through the Byakugan; he saw the location where Vivi was.
Chapter 105: Luffy Gone Crazy?At this moment, Vivi was lying on Karoo's back, sprinting towards the going merry, seemingly intending to leave on the ship.Unfortunately, she was discovered; or rather, those two people were just slowly following behind, not intending to attack directly."Ya hahahaha!""Don't struggle in vain."The two of them pressed forward, chasing Vivi.Just as Vivi was worrying, a figure appeared in front of her."Miss Monday!"That's right, this was Miss Monday, whom Zoro had knocked out."Hurry! Once you get past here, you can board the ship."She held a huge wooden club in her left hand while pointing behind herself with her right."I'll block them here! But... thanks to that strong swordsman, we will definitely be punished for failing the mission. Since we're going to die anyway, why not sacrifice ourselves to protect a friend! Go quickly!"Vivi looked at her figure and rode Karoo past her."Thank you!"After saying that, she ran towards the going merrywithout looking back.Seeing someone blocking their way, Mr. 5 rolled up his sleeves."After Mr. 9, is it your turn now, Miss Monday?""Ya hahaha, playing tricks, huh! But you won't be able to beat us." Ms. Valentine looked at Miss Monday and teased.Mr. 5 put strength into his feet and quickly arrived in front of Miss Monday."You... have brought shame upon the Baroque Works!"A powerful explosion occurred. Just as Mr. 5 thought Miss Monday would fall by his hand, he felt his wrist being grabbed, unable to move at all."Hehe, bullying a young lady, aren't you ashamed to call yourself a man?"Alex's voice came from the smoke.How did this happen? Actually, while Nami was haggling with Igaram, Alex had noticed this place.When Nami confirmed that the other party really couldn't make the decision, she helplessly agreed: "...Fine, fine, I'll save your princess for now. Alright! Zoro, you go!"Zoro remembered Alex's words at this moment and didn't expect the other side to be so shameless.So he opened his mouth wide and roared at Nami."Who's going, you idiot! And why do I have to be your tool for making money! Isn't Alex over there? Let him go!"Hearing Zoro's words, Nami looked at him with an expression that said, 'Are you stupid?'"Ah—seriously—are you stupid! My money is of course my money, but my contract covers all of you. Don't forget that we agreed to split the treasure I obtain 30/70. Also, I owe Alex money, so of course I won't let him do it."Hearing Nami's words, Zoro became even more furious: "What kind of reason is that!"Hearing Zoro being so unreasonable, Nami started arguing with him directly."What's the matter, can't you just go up and slash them a couple of times and be done with it?""I hate being ordered around by others! And I'm not like that stupid cook!""You say that, don't tell me you can't beat them?""What did you say? Say that again if you dare!"Nami didn't care about Zoro's roar and even repeated it."You say that, don't tell me you can't beat them?"Zoro was stunned, then realized what happened and shouted even louder."You actually repeated it!"Zoro's shout was so loud that it woke up Luffy, who was sleeping in the room.Luffy walked out of the room, dazed, mumbling about the bathroom, and walked far away. Neither of them paid attention to him leaving.Just as the two had been arguing for a long time, they noticed Alex was missing and couldn't help but wonder where he had gone."Hey, do you know where Alex went?"Nami didn't know either regarding Zoro's inquiry.Instead, Igaram, who was on the side, said: "Are you asking about that white-haired youth? He, *cough cough*... Ma~~ Ma~~ Ma~~ Ma~~ He suddenly disappeared.""Suddenly disappeared? Then where would he go...""...Take this! Rasengan!"This was Alex's voice. Hearing it, Zoro immediately ran over; it seemed like Alex was fighting those two people.Seeing Zoro leave, Igaram finally breathed a sigh of relief. Although he didn't know what had just happened, it seemed the princess was safe for the moment.With the princess safe, his tense nerves relaxed quite a bit, and he began to lie on the ground and weep."If I were stronger, I could have protected the princess!"Igaram, lying on the ground, wept bitterly, hating his own weakness.Nami had felt this way too, so she comforted him."Don't worry, those two guys are very strong."But Igaram revealed a shocking piece of news."...If something happens to the princess... the kingdom will be finished. She must stay alive..."Nami was a bit confused about what was happening and asked him what was going on."Can you tell me the specific situation?"Igaram didn't hide anything and told everything he knew."This is a long story, but the most critical part is this Baroque Works. It's a secret criminal organization. None of the employees know the boss's appearance or name. And this company mainly deals in espionage, assassination, theft, and bounty hunting. All personnel act according to the boss's instructions."Hearing this, Nami was confused: "Since you don't even know the boss's true identity, why do you listen to him so much?""*Cough cough*... This is all because of the ultimate goal of Baroque Works... to establish an ideal nation. The boss promised everyone that those who have made contributions to the company will hold high positions in the ideal nation he creates in the future.""So that's it." Nami understood why they listened to this boss, but how could such a pie-in-the-sky plan recruit so many people?"So you mean the location of the ideal nation that this boss is secretly planning is your country, right?""Exactly, so Princess Vivi and I secretly infiltrated to find the truth, until we saw the boss's true face. These are all the details I know."On the other side, Alex grabbed Mr. 5's arm, saving Miss Monday's life."You... you are that white-haired kid, what are you doing here?""I admire you. Although we are enemies, I really like the way you chose to sacrifice yourself for your partner."Mr. 5 looked at the person who suddenly appeared and quickly retreated to the side. Although these two guys were small fries, they had wiped out a hundred decent Bounty Hunterss and four decent officers in less than a few hours. He had better be careful.Alex looked at the opponent. He didn't know what his ability was and wanted to bait him to see if he could get it out of him.But before Alex could ask, the opponent spoke his ability first."Who are you, kid? But never mind, it doesn't matter who you are. Because I am a bomb man who can detonate my whole body. Relying on the power of the Bomb-Bomb Fruit, I have never failed a mission!"Seeing the opponent being so honest, Alex didn't know what to say."Why did you save me?"Vivi looked at the suddenly appearing Alex and asked why he came here."I said it, I came here because I admired your bond, so I will also protect that bond. That person is called Miss Monday, right?""Yes!""How about you protect Vivi next? By the way, Viviis who you often call Miss Wednesday. As for these people, leave them to me. Also, you are not allowed to target our ship!""Okay... okay! We won't, we have our own spare boats."Alex nodded and let them leave. Watching Miss Monday protect Vivi as they walked towards the ships, Alex looked at the two in front of him."You two didn't sneak attack me, which surprises me, so I'm prepared to let you die painlessly. Take this! Rasengan!"Alex brought the Rasengan in front of Mr. 5 and struck him with it.The powerful force sent him flying, and he crashed through five or six houses before stabilizing his figure.The lemon-like girl floated up in place. When she reached above Alex, she quickly changed her weight and pressed down towards Alex.Alex didn't even dodge this move; he just raised his palm, Earth Release: Lightweight Rock Technique.When Alex's palm touched her calf, Ms. Valentinecould feel her weight becoming lighter.That thousand-pound weight disappeared. Alexgrabbed her ankle and threw her away."Hmph, is that it? Is this all your strength? Too disappointing!"As soon as Alex finished speaking, he felt killing intent behind him."Alex! I won't forgive you! Take this, Gomu Gomu no Pistol!"Facing Luffy's attack, Alex didn't know what was going on, so he chose to trap him."What are you going crazy for, Luffy! Forget it, whatever. Water Release: Water Prison Technique!"Alex dodged Luffy's fist, then grabbed Luffy's arm. When he was about to attack him again, he immediately trapped him with the Water Prison Technique.At this time, Zoro also ran over. He saw Alexattacking Luffy and didn't know what was going on either."Alex, what happened?""Not sure, I was beating those two people right here, and Luffy attacked me without saying a word."In order not to let Luffy die, Alex took his head out."And you, Zoro, I definitely won't spare you either!""You guys should worry about yourselves! Nose Fancy: Rapid-Fire Cannon!"A large booger flew over. Seeing such a disgusting thing, Alex created a clone to keep trapping Luffy, while his main body performed hand seals."Earth Release: Earth-Style Wall!"An earth wall appeared, blocking the flying booger.Zoro saw this and patted Alex on the shoulder."Luckily you're here, otherwise I would have had to use my sword to slash the booger.""Understood, understood."Withdrawing the Earth-Style Wall, watching the two approach, Alex stretched his shoulders, preparing to finish them off in one move.
Chapter 106: Misunderstanding"Alex, let me go! I'm going to send you and that ungrateful guy flying!""Hey! Alex, did you hear me..."Zoro didn't quite understand what the other party meant by ingratitude, so he asked Luffy."Luffy, you say we're ungrateful? What do you mean?"Luffy proceeded to recount what he had encountered while going to the restroom.It turned out that when Luffy went to the restroom, he encountered villagers lying on the ground. When he asked who had injured them, they claimed that it was caused by his two companions.After saying this, Luffy looked at the two of them again."That's what happened. You two were the ones who injured those villagers, right!"It was indeed the two of them who had defeated those villagers, and there was no need for them to deny it.Seeing them admit it, Luffy roared, "You actually beat up all the kind townspeople who gave us such a warm welcome and treated us to fine wine and food, leaving not a single one standing!""Hey, Luffy, listen to me..." Zoro tried to explain the situation to him, but Luffy wasn't listening to anything in his current state.Alex chose a simpler way to explain."Luffy! Those people are enemies!"Hearing this, Luffy retorted to Alex, "You're lying! Would enemies give us food to eat?""You idiot, would you rather believe an enemy than your own companions!"This sentence stunned Luffy, because his companions wouldn't lie to him, but enemies wouldn't give him food either. Given his simple thought process, these two ironclad rules clashed in his mind; simply put, Luffy's brain had overloaded.Taking advantage of the gap while Luffy couldn't think, Alex decided to quickly finish off the two guys."You've been watching the show for so long, it's time to pay the admission fee...""Hmph, don't talk so big about finishing us off just because you got a lucky hit in!"Mr. 5 looked at Alex with extreme disdain; he didn't believe the other guy was someone capable of hurting him.Likewise, Ms. Valentine also thought that what happened before was a Devil Fruit ability. But what kind of Devil Fruit could control both soil and water? It didn't matter anymore.She laughed, "Ya-hahahaha," and then floated into the air.According to her own explanation, the Devil Fruitshe used was the Kilo-Kilo Fruit, which could make her weight as light as one gram, allowing her to float in the air by using the airflow generated by Mr. 5's explosions.Mr. 5 picked his nose, rolled it into a booger, and aimed at Alex. "Nose Fancy Cannon!""Using such disgusting moves all the time is just too boring! Wind Release: Vacuum Bullets!"Several small wind currents struck the incoming booger, causing an explosion. Meanwhile, Ms. Valentine used the airflow to float into the air.Flying in the air, she aimed at Alex below. Seeing that his attack hadn't worked, Mr. 5 prepared to fight Alex at close range, using explosions under his feet to increase his speed.Ms. Valentine in the sky also took this opportunity to accelerate. The two of them were going to attack him from both directions."Well come! In that case, you can just bury yourselves here! Earth Release: Swamp of the Underworld!"A large patch of swamp appeared at Alex's feet. Mr. 5 saw it but couldn't stop, crashing straight into it. Just as he was about to rely on an explosion to escape..."Trying to tie me up with a swamp? Isn't that looking down on me a bit too much!""No, I'm not looking down on you. So, Earth Release: Added Weight Rock Technique!"Alex flashed behind him, then slapped his back, immediately applying the Added Weight Rock Technique to his ankles.Feeling the sudden weight added to his ankles, Mr. 5 spun around in the air and plunged headfirst into the swamp, even though his feet were still exploding. Just like that, Mr. 5 sank into the mud."Glub... glub... glub..."As for Ms. Valentine, who was hiding in the sky, she saw her partner taken out so easily, immediately canceled the ten thousand kilograms of gravity she had applied to her body, and fled without looking back."Hmm? You want to escape? Not a chance! You're coming down too!"Saying this, Alex caught up to her and placed his hands on Ms. Valentine's shoulders.Seeing Alex flying in the sky, Ms. Valentine was too surprised to speak."Why aren't you laughing? Do you not like to laugh?"Alex didn't give her time to think, gently patting her shoulder. A powerful gravitational force pressed her straight into the swamp.Watching the two of them sink into the swamp, Alexdidn't pay them any more mind because a sound coming from nearby caught his attention.Through his Byakugan, he could see that Zoro and Luffy were fighting.He didn't know the ins and outs of the situation, but after all, they were companions. They were actually attacking their own companion, which was not allowed.Seeing this, Alex first floated over to Luffy, picked him up, and placed him in an open area. He then used the same method to bring Zoro over.Discovering the wounds on both of them, Alex didn't say a word and performed a pressure point strike on Zoro to stop his bleeding and, incidentally, calm him down. As for Luffy, he was still served with the Water Prison Technique."Why did you two start fighting?"Alex's words were gentle, but Luffy and Zoro could hear the anger in them."It... it's his fault..."Luffy had just wanted to say it was Zoro's fault, but after seeing Alex's eyes, he silently lowered his head and stopped talking. As for Zoro, he couldn't speak because he had been struck on the pressure point."Well, since neither of you has any questions, now shake hands and make up! Whoever dares to lay a hand on a companion again, don't blame me for using my ruthless moves!"Upon hearing about Alex's ruthless moves, for some reason, both of them suddenly felt a chill down their spines!"I'll tell Luffy what the punishment is first. You should know about taste nerves, right? If not, that's fine, I'll explain. It means that when people eat, besides spicy, all other flavors are controlled by taste nerves. So Luffy, if you ever blindly attack a companion again, I'll prick a few acupuncture points on your tongue to alter your sense of taste. Imagine food that has no flavor at all; what would you do?"After listening to Alex, Luffy started to imagine that scenario.[Sanji walked over with a plate of fragrant food. "Luffy, this is your favorite bone-in meat." But when he took a bite, it had no taste. He ate a lot, but there was still no taste, until he gradually grew thin from hunger and starved to death in front of a plate of fragrant bone-in meat.]Thinking of such a scenario, Luffy began to struggle and scream, "I don't want that! I don't want that... Alex, I will definitely believe my companions from now on, I swear!"Looking at Luffy's eyes, Alex nodded. The rest of that was just him bluffing; if he didn't do this, problems would really arise if they doubted their companions over trivial matters in the future.Of course, he knew that after others learned of Luffy's personality, there probably wouldn't be many who would care.Then Alex came to Zoro."Zoro, you certainly wouldn't do that, but if you don't want your wado ichimonji to end up on Sanji's cutting board, don't attack your companions casually, you know?"Zoro started to imagine the scene where his wado ichimonji ended up on that stupid cook's cutting board.["Yo, so this is the sword of the world's greatest swordsman, huh? It's not bad for chopping vegetables, but it doesn't compare to my kitchen knife."]Thinking of such a scenario, he would rather die than let that happen.Seeing that the two had calmed down, Alex asked them how they had started fighting.Through their conversation, he understood that for some unknown reason, Zoro had suddenly picked a fight with Luffy.Alex had gone to great lengths to overload Luffy's simple brain, but Zoro, on the other hand, restored him with a single sentence.Afterward, upon hearing Luffy's provocation, Zorodidn't say a word, directly sliced through the water clone, let Luffy out, and then the two just started fighting.By the end of the fight, Zoro had tied on his bandana, and Luffy's stomach had gone down. Both of them had brought out their respective skills."You really are a bit stupid! Then I won't hold back! Don't regret it if you die!""I wouldn't have it any other way!"Luffy took the initiative, stretching his arm backward while running toward Zoro."Gum-Gum...!"Zoro held his three swords, crossed his hands in front of his chest, and also ran toward Luffy."Oni!""Rocket!""Slash!"The two's moves were intercepted by each other; Luffy's foot kicked Zoro's arm, and Zoro's hand also restrained the other's palms. Both were shocked that the other could block their moves.Zoro looked at the other, biting his sword as he spoke."Just as well, let's take this opportunity... to see whether martial arts is stronger, or swordsmanship..."Luffy also showed his agreement with a ferocious expression.Afterward, both of their attacks hit each other, and they flew into the house. The rest of the events were what Alex had seen."So that's how it was. I understand. Now, do you know you were wrong!"Saying this, Alex released the restraints on the two, and they could move again.Hearing Alex's words, the two stood obediently and said in unison."We have deeply realized our mistake, and we won't directly attack our companions again!""Hmm, very good!"Alex nodded to show his approval, then he explained the situation here to Luffy."What? So that's it? Zoro, you should have said so earlier! I thought you guys didn't like the food they treated us to, so you beat them up!"After hearing Alex's explanation, Luffy looked at Zoro with a grin."Don't compare us to you!""Hahahaha—don't take it to heart."Thump, thump.Two sounds came; it turned out to be Nami hitting Luffy and Zoro on the head from behind.As for why this happened, it was because she had seen from a distance that the aftermath of Luffy and Zoro's battle had almost killed Vivi. She was afraid her one billion Berries would disappear, which is why she did that."What on earth are you two idiots doing? Fortunately, Alex acted to protect that young lady over there, otherwise my one billion Berries would have almost been gone! Do you know that!"Seeing Nami like this, Luffy quickly apologized."S-sorry."Instead, Zoro rubbed the large bump on his head and glared fiercely at her.Then Nami walked over to Vivi and helped her up from the ruins.
Chapter 107: AlabastaVivi, being helped up, looked at the people in front of her, not understanding what had just happened.She only knew that the white-haired boy had protected her as they escaped, and then Straw Hatand the swordsman had started fighting.Afterward, she had been blown away by the shockwaves of their battle. Wait, what about Miss Monday?Vivi looked beneath her. It seemed Miss Mondayhad held her and used her own body to block the impact from earlier; it appeared she had protected her once again.Vivi stood up, lifted her from the ruins, and placed her on the open ground to the side.Then, she looked at Nami and the others."Um, may I know why you saved me?"Hearing the other girl's words, Nami took the opportunity to state her own thoughts."I don't know what's up with Alex, but I want to make a deal with you.""What deal?""It's like this: I talked to Igaram. As long as we get you back to your country safely, you'll give me one billion Berries. But he said he was just a low-level soldier and didn't have the authority, so he told me to talk to you. Now, tell me, do you want to continue with this deal?"After hearing what Nami said, Vivi refused righteously."That's impossible, although I am very grateful for your rescue!""Why? Aren't you a princess?...It's just a mere one billion Berries; it should be easy for you, right?"Nami was a bit confused as to why she refused.Alex spoke up: "I only saved you because of my loyalty to Miss Monday...""Shut up, Alex, that's one billion Berries!"Nami interrupted Alex. If she lost the one billion Berries because of this one sentence, she would feel like tearing Alex apart alive.Seeing these people still discussing the one billion Berries, Vivi realized that they truly didn't know what her country was like.Thinking of this, Vivi asked them: "...Um, have you heard of the Kingdom of Alabasta?"Everyone stopped arguing and looked at Vivi."No, never heard of it.""What is that, is it something delicious?""I don't know.""I haven't heard of it either."Seeing that everyone didn't know, Vivi understood."Then let me briefly introduce it. It is one of the few civilized countries on the Grand Line. It used to be a peaceful and prosperous nation..."Hearing this, Nami realized something and hurriedly asked Vivi."Used to be? What do you mean?""I mean that in recent years, there have been signs of revolution among the people of this country. The public has instigated riots, and now the country is in chaos."Regarding the revolution, Alex was a bit puzzled, but thought it better not to ask; he guessed the other girl didn't know the whole story either.Vivi continued her story: "One day, I accidentally heard the name of a certain organization, Baroque Works. It seems the public is inciting riots under the instigation of that organization.""But apart from that, all other information is unknown, so we have been unable to take action against that organization. Therefore, I asked Igaram, who has taken great care of me since I was a child, to infiltrate this Baroque Works with me. To see if we could find any clues... I believe that this way, we will definitely be able to find the culprit threatening our kingdom and understand their purpose."Hearing this, Zoro praised Vivi's actions: "What a brave princess."Luffy was curious about that Igaram person: "So Igaram is that uncle who looks like a soft-serve ice cream?""Yeah, she really is a brave girl. But soft-serve ice cream, that's not bad; it really does look like his hairstyle." Alex first agreed with Zoro's words, then began to think about the relationship between Igaram and soft-serve ice cream, finding that his hair really did look like one.Nami had talked with Igaram, so she could be considered to know the true purpose of this company."To seize the country of Alabasta and establish a utopia in its place, right?"After Nami finished this sentence, everyone looked over. Zoro looked at her with suspicious eyes, while Luffy looked at Nami with a grin. As for Alex, he was just puzzled as to how she knew this information.Vivi looked at Nami in horror: "Nami, how did you know about this information?""Igaram told me. And Zoro, what's with that look? Do you think I'm from that organization or something?!"After hearing Nami say the answer was obtained after talking to Igaram, Vivi and Zoro breathed a sigh of relief. Luffy was still grinning at Nami."Yeah, Nami is right. Although the boss hinted to the employees that the company was going to establish a utopia, the true purpose of Baroque Works is to seize the Kingdom of Alabasta! And thus establish the utopia he spoke of!"Speaking of this, Vivi bit her lip: "If we don't hurry back to the country to make these truths public and suppress the riots of the people, we will fall right into the trap of Baroque Works.""I see, that makes sense. The country is in civil turmoil, so there's no money."Nami was a bit disappointed. She had thought she could make a big profit, but now, it seemed that was going to be gone."Hey, who exactly is the mastermind?" Luffy asked, sitting on a wooden barrel, asking Vivi who the mastermind was.Alex, on the side, pricked up his ears to listen.Vivi hurriedly waved her hand, indicating she couldn't say."You had better not ask about the boss's true identity! Don't ask! That is the one thing I will not say! Once I say it, your lives will also be threatened..."Seeing her so flustered, Luffy stopped asking. Alexwas a bit disappointed.Nami also came out to smooth things over and steered the conversation to other topics."Haha... We don't want to know! Someone who wants to seize a country must be a very remarkable person!"Hearing Nami say this, Vivi's tense heart relaxed, and she inadvertently said something that shocked everyone."Yeah, although you are very strong, you definitely couldn't beat Crocodile, one of the Seven Warlords of the Sea!"After saying this, Vivi immediately covered her mouth because she realized she had said too much.Hearing this, Luffy and Alex's eyes lit up. You have to know, this is one of the Seven Warlords of the Sea, one of the world's top experts. If Hawkeye's strength was like that, then that Crocodile must be off the charts!Luffy, just like Alex, couldn't help but have his blood boil at the thought of such a powerful enemy.Zoro leaned against a wooden crate, looking at Viviin disbelief: "Didn't you just say it out loud..."As for Nami, she had been scared senseless, standing there pale and swaying in the wind.Of course, if it were just said in private, it wouldn't matter; as long as no one else knew, it would be fine.Unfortunately, on the roof of a nearby building, two animals had seen everything that happened here.After confirming the whole sequence of events, the Sea Otter rode a vulture and quickly left the area."Alex, hurry and take them out!""Eh~ I don't want to~"Seeing that there was no hope of stopping them, Nami turned to look at Vivi beside her.She shook Vivi, demanding to know what was going on with those two animals from earlier."What were that bird and Sea Otter earlier? They went to report to the boss that you told us his secret, right? What are we going to do?"Luffy and Alex started discussing it with excitement.Zoro nodded, indicating this was quite good.Vivi apologized to Nami while being shaken by her."I'm sorry! I'm sorry! I... I am really sorry! I let it slip by accident."But when Nami heard Vivi's words, she shook her even harder."Do you think a simple 'by accident' can solve this? Also, why did you say that and drag us into this?"After venting, Nami sat on the ground and burst into tears, complaining while wiping away her tears."I just entered the Grand Line and I'm already being hunted by the Shichibukai, I really can't take it anymore!"Just as Nami was lamenting her hard life, Alex, Zoro, and Luffy started discussing."What do you think, how does this Crocodile's strength compare to Hawkeye's?""Not sure, but it definitely won't be too weak.""That's great, I didn't expect we'd meet him so soon, we're so lucky.""Hey, Zoro, this one isn't Hawkeye; we don't even know if he uses weapons or not.""Hehe, what kind of person do you think he is?""But no matter what kind of person he is, Luffy, you can't fight him before I do!""No way! I also want to fight a Shichibukai. Besides, you've already fought Hawkeye!"Regarding Alex's words, Luffy said no way."Fine, then let's see who runs into him first and fights him, how about that?"Hearing this proposal, Luffy nodded in agreement."Shut up, you guys!"Nami, who was grieving on the side, heard them discussing and told them to shut up.Still discussing fighting a Shichibukai, did they think the Shichibukai were some small-time characters!Unable to stand the way these people's brains worked, Nami turned and walked away, talking as she went."Although we haven't been together for very long, I appreciate your care during this time."Seeing Nami leave, Luffy asked where she was going."I'm going to run away before they get a good look at me!"Nami hadn't gone far when she saw those two animals that had left stop not far away, holding pens and drawing something.Before long, four portraits were displayed by them.From left to right, they were Nami, Luffy, Zoro, and Alex.Alex's eyes were drawn in the state of having the Byakugan and Sharingan activated.Although they were headshots, they were drawn vividly.Seeing these portraits, Nami clapped and praised: "Wow, they're drawn so well!"Unfortunately, she hadn't finished praising them for long before Nami realized that since these were drawn so well, they were probably for that Shichibukai to look at.Thinking of this, she looked at the Unlucky Duo who had long since flown away.She turned and shouted at Vivi: "Well, this is great, I don't even have a place to run to now!"Vivi also felt very sorry about this, and could only keep apologizing, saying sorry.Luffy watched the Unlucky Duo fly away and said they were so interesting.Zoro asked Nami: "Tell me, where were you planning to run to in the first place? But... never mind, anyway, the four of us have now become part of Baroque Works' hit list..."Luffy was incredibly excited about this statement.
Chapter 108: Igaram's PlanAlex didn't show much reaction to what had just happened, but after he turned around, his Byakuganrevealed something that made him feel nauseous.He then crouched on the ground and started to retch.Luffy and Zoro assumed he had food poisoning and didn't pay him any mind.Vivi, on the other hand, went to comfort Nami, who was crouching on the ground and crying."If... if you don't mind, I have five hundred thousand Berries in my little treasury..."Just as Vivi was comforting Nami, a voice rang out.Upon hearing the voice, Alex hurriedly deactivated his Byakugan and Sharingan, terrified that his eyes might go blind."Please, rest assured! No... ahem, Ma~~mama~~, it's fine! I have a plan!"Igaram was standing before everyone, wearing the same clothes as Vivi, with heavy makeup on, and clutching four dolls in his arms.This was the reason Alex had been retching earlier, and what he had seen was far worse—he had witnessed Igaram changing clothes while already wearing that makeup.When Vivi heard Igaram's voice and turned around, even with her upbringing, she was stunned by Igaram's appearance."Igaram... why are you dressed like that?"Luffy looked at the middle-aged man before him—who had evolved from a soft-serve cone hairstyle to this—and hurried forward to offer praise."Wow! Uncle, this outfit is sure to be popular!"Zoro sat on the ground, covering his face to avoid looking at them, while muttering, "Good grief... what a bunch of idiots..."Seeing everyone discussing his outfit, Igaram spoke up to stop them."Everyone, quiet down, please listen to me carefully. Once word of you reaches the information network of Baroque Works, pursuers will appear immediately. Furthermore, since you defeated the duo of Mr.5 and Ms. Valentine, the situation has become even more serious!""Also, let me tell you something: although the current Shichibukai no longer have bounties, in the past, the boss of Baroque Works, Crocodile, had a bounty of eighty million Berries. Regardless, I am entrusting the mission of escorting the princess back to Alabasta to you."Luffy asked Igaram, looking confused, "Hm? What mission?""He wants us to take this little girl home! Are you even listening?!""Zoro, don't you know Luffy by now? He won't remember things like this.""Haha, it's not that great, but if it's this mission, sure, I can do it!"Seeing Luffy act this way, Igaram felt somewhat worried about whether it was right to entrust the princess to him. But having no other options, he had to treat a dead horse as if it were a living one.Nami was stunned when she heard Crocodile's bounty. Eighty million Berries—just how strong was this guy!Then, seeing Alex, Luffy, and Zoro laughing over there, she couldn't help but get angry and shouted at the three of them."You guys! That's an eighty million Berry bounty! It's four times that of Arlong!""Ma ma~ relax, Nami. If the sky falls, we'll hold it up; what are you afraid of? Besides, if you calculate it that way, my bounty and Luffy's combined are only twenty million less than his."Hearing Alex say this, Nami's heart sank completely. She sighed, thinking it was over—these three guys were all crazy.On the other side, Igaram looked at Vivi: "Then, Princess, please give me the Eternal Pose for Alabasta.""An... Eternal Pose? What is that?" Nami, who had been feeling down, perked up upon hearing about a new type of navigation tool.After all, she was a navigator; if she didn't pay attention to new navigation tools, how could she ever map the entire world?"Ah? You don't know?" Igaram was about to say that this was common knowledge on the Grand Line, but then he remembered they were here for the first time. He began to explain to Nami what an Eternal Pose was."An Eternal Pose is a permanently fixed version of a log pose. A log pose generally guides a ship to the next island, but once an Eternal Pose records the magnetic force of a specific island, the data for that island is saved permanently. No matter where you go, it will always point to that island."After speaking, Igaram took out a wooden frame with the words 'Alabasta' carved on it. Inside, it was identical to the log pose Nami was wearing."This Eternal Pose has recorded the magnetic force of Alabasta."After introducing the Eternal Pose, Igaram looked at the others with a serious expression and explained his plan."Everyone, please listen carefully. Princess Vivi, from now on, I will disguise myself as you and, carrying dolls disguised as these four, return directly to Alabasta. While the pursuers from Baroque Worksare distracted by me, you will take this group's ship and return to the country via the normal route. Although I haven't traveled this route myself, you should be able to arrive after passing two or three islands from this one. I hope we can meet again safely in Alabasta."At this point, Alex raised his hand to signal."Young hero, is there something you need?"Alex didn't speak, but instead created four shadow clones, three of which transformed into Nami, Luffy, and Zoro."Uncle, throw away those four dolls. Using my shadow clones will be much better. Although they can't last for a long time, they can hold up for three or four days."Watching the four lifelike figures appear before him, Igaram didn't even realize the dolls he was holding under his arms had dropped to the ground."So... so amazing!"Igaram looked them over from left to right; there were no flaws whatsoever—it was perfect.Luffy looked at the clone that had transformed into his likeness with excitement."You...", "You..."The two looked at each other: "It's really alike!""Indeed!"Zoro also came up to his clone and examined it.Just like that, the group and the clones went to the seaside."Then, I entrust the Princess to you! And Alex, thank you for your help!"Standing behind Igaram were the clones, while behind Vivi stood the real ones.But Alex found this scene strange no matter how he looked at it."Uncle, this outfit of yours is sure to be popular," Luffy said, rubbing the clone that looked just like him, while praising Igaram's outfit once again."Who would find this popular?" Zoro muttered, looking at his clone not far away, while criticizing Luffy's taste.If Alex hadn't told him that the clones didn't possess their actual strength, Zoro probably would have really tried to spar with the guy.Igaram walked up to Vivi, took her hand, and urged her, "Although you have their help, Princess, this will be an arduous journey ahead. Please, take extra care.""Mm-hmm, you too!"After the instructions were finished, Igaram took the clones and boarded another ship.Watching the ship sail away, Luffy sighed, "Ah~ how nice. Watching yourself sail away is quite a unique experience! Still, that uncle is so interesting to the very end."Vivi, watching the departing ship and hearing Luffy's words, couldn't help but sigh as well."Yes, that's why I have always trusted him."Just as Alex and the others turned around, the sound of an explosion came from the ship in the distance.Alex also received the feedback that his clones had been destroyed—which meant nothing was left.Hearing the explosion, everyone looked over and discovered that the sea surface was already burning with a raging fire."How could this be... did the pursuers arrive so quickly..."Nami muttered, looking at the scene before her.Luffy looked at everything before him with a dark expression."Very well! Nami! Is the log recorded?"It was the first time Nami had heard Luffy's tone so furious."It... it's ready, it's fully stored."Hearing that the log pose was fully stored, Luffywas no longer willing to stall: "Grab that girl, we're setting off!"Nami noticed that Vivi was just standing there, watching everything."Vivi! Hurry! If we get discovered, everything will be for nothing!"At this moment, Nami saw that Vivi had bitten her lip hard to suppress her anger. She didn't want to cry out, nor did she want to make the others worry, so she chose to silently endure everything.Seeing this, Nami sighed in her heart at what a strong girl she was, and then she hugged her and began to offer comfort."It's okay! We will safely get you to Alabasta! Besides, they saved the East Blue with the power of just five people! A mere Shichibukai is definitely no match for them!"On the other side, everyone else also started to take action."Hey, Luffy! Go wake those two guys up and bring them over! I'm going to get the ship ready.""Alright, I'll go collect supplies first, otherwise we'll starve to death while sailing on the sea!""Fine, leave it to me! Alex, prepare more meat!""Got it!"After saying this, Alex used the Body Flicker Technique to leave and activated his Byakugan to start checking where the most supplies were.Naturally, he started with the banquet hall, collecting some meat and sausages first, then went to the kitchen to see if there was any food.As for alcohol, this was a town that produced wine, so there was naturally no shortage, and the same went for water.It was just that food seemed to be truly scarce, which was no wonder they had to hunt Laboon.After scavenging through a small part of the town and seeing that he had only filled three scrolls in front of him, Alex scratched his head, unsure if this food would be enough to last until they reached the next island."Forget it, whatever. I'll just see if we can catch some fish to make up for the rest."After saying this, Alex returned to the going merryand found Luffy dragging Usopp by his nose and Sanji by his leg, standing in front of the going merry.Meanwhile, Zoro was with a duck."Hm? Luffy, didn't you go to call Sanji and Usopp? What did they go through to be injured so badly?"Alex glanced at Usopp and Sanji on the ground—how had these two sustained such heavy injuries?"I don't know.""Hey, never mind that, get on the ship and prepare to set off."Vivi, on the side, was still looking for Karoo, but Nami told her not to worry about it anymore.Seeing the two arguing, Alex pointed to the duck on the ship and said to Vivi, "Is that the one?"Seeing Karoo next to Zoro, Vivi and Nami shouted at him, "How are you there!"Zoro glanced at Karoo, indicating that this guy had boarded the ship before him.
Chapter 109: Ms. All Sunday"Alright, everyone, let's not chat here. If you have any questions, let's get on the ship first."Hearing Alex's reminder, Vivi and Nami finally realized what they needed to do and hurried onto the going merry to hoist the sails.Vivi came to Nami's side, as she was extremely familiar with the local terrain."Nami, steer the ship upstream! There's a tributary a bit further up. We can reach the route earlier from there!"Hearing Vivi's words, Nami immediately had Zoroand Alex adjust the sails to head toward the tributary Vivi mentioned.As the ship started moving along the current, Alexactivated his Byakugan to watch the bottom of the ship. After all, it had just been damaged, and if it hit a reef again, the hull wouldn't hold up.Watching the ship start, Luffy was concerned about how many enemies might come. "Hey! How many pursuers will there be?"Vivi was taken aback by Luffy's words; she hadn't expected him to ask that. But upon reflection, it was indeed necessary to properly calculate how many enemies they would face next."Hmm, the enemies? Baroque Works has about two thousand employees in total. I heard there are several towns like Whiskey Peak nearby... By that calculation, there will probably be about a thousand people."Nami agreed that it was possible, as the boss's identity being exposed was a serious matter.The going merry safely sailed into the tributary, and Nami went over to Sanji and Usopp to wake them up.The two, having just woken up, looked around and discovered they were on the going merry. Their brains were still in a daze, and they were speaking whatever came to mind.Sanji, quite distraught, begged Nami to stay a bit longer. "Hey, why? Why are we in such a rush to set sail?" "Wait a second, let's stay one more night! It's rare to find such a cheerful town, and the girls are so cute too!"Usopp was also extremely reluctant and pleaded with Nami as well. "Exactly! Who knows when we'll be able to make such wonderful memories again!" "Relax a bit, aren't we pirates? Besides, it's not even dawn yet! Hey, are you listening? Let's go back!"Nami couldn't stand their nagging any longer, raised her fist, and brought it down hard on their heads. Thump! Thump! Two crisp sounds rang out, and both Sanji and Usopp collapsed on the deck.Alex glanced at the two and sighed lightly. "Sigh~ Youth is great; they can fall asleep anywhere."Zoro had also been annoyed by their shouting and asked Nami as she walked over. "Hey, what happened to them? Should we explain things to them..." Before Zoro could finish, Nami clapped her hands and stated, "Yeah, I already explained."Zoro didn't say anything more and continued lying where he was to get some rest."Everyone, be careful, it's getting foggy, and it'll be dawn soon..." Before Alex could finish, he raised his hand and threw a shuriken. Thud! The shuriken embedded itself in the kitchen door."Hey, Alex, what are you..." "Luffy, there's an enemy!"Zoro placed his hand on the hilt of his sword at his waist, ready for combat."Oh my~ Such impatience. You should be more careful with things like that. By the way, you should also be careful steering the ship; don't hit the rocks. Still, it's great that you managed to escape from the pursuers! Come to think of it, this ship is really nice."As if in response to Alex and Zoro, a woman with fair skin, dressed in Violet, was sitting in front of the kitchen door. Only then did Vivi and Nami notice someone was there.Nami asked the stranger: "Who are you?!"Luffy, however, was completely unconcerned with her identity; he cared more about why she was on their ship. "I don't care about anything else, why are you on our ship!"However, the woman completely ignored Luffy and Nami, staring straight at Vivi instead. "Earlier, I ran into Mr. 8 over there... Ms. Wednesday..."Seeing the stranger's appearance clearly, Vivi's expression grew tense. When Alex saw Vivi's expression, he knew that the person opposite them was either a master or someone of high status within Baroque Works.Hearing the stranger say that, combined with Vivi's expression, Alex understood the situation regarding that explosion: "Hey! You woman over there, was it you who blew up Igaram's ship?!""Heh~ Think whatever you like. Does the little boy want revenge?" As she spoke, the woman pulled out the shuriken embedded in the kitchen door and began to fiddle with it in her hand.Just as Alex was about to act, Vivi reached out and stopped him. "Why are you here! Ms. All Sunday!"Upon hearing Vivi's words, Nami immediately asked: "What kind of enemy is this? Whose partner is she?"Hearing Nami's question, Vivi blurted out all the information she knew. "She is Mr. 0's partner! In fact, she is the only woman who knows the boss's true identity. That's why we only found out the boss's identity by tracking her!"Ms. All Sunday held her chin with one hand, correcting her. "To be precise... it should be that I let you track me on purpose...""What, she's actually a good person." After hearing Ms. All Sunday's explanation, Luffy thought she was a good person, after all, she had helped Vivifind the real culprit."We already knew that! So, it was you who told him that we knew the boss's true identity, right?" "What, so she is a bad person..." Before Luffy could finish, Alex stepped forward and dragged him aside. "Alex! Let me go!" "Stop talking, Luffy. This kind of discussion isn't for you. Just stay here quietly and listen with us."After Alex dragged Luffy away, the scene quieted down, and the murderous atmosphere from a moment ago vanished. Ms. All Sunday watched everything happening before her with a smile; after all, this was the scene she had dreamed of, though it didn't belong to her."What exactly is your goal?" Vivi asked what her true purpose was."Well, I just saw you searching for the boss so earnestly and couldn't help but help you out, it's that simple. Also, Princess, do you really think you can go against Baroque Works and save your kingdom? You're being way too naive!"Hearing the enemy's provocation, Vivi shouted at Ms. All Sunday: "Don't you underestimate me!"Nami took out her bo staff, Zoro drew the sword at his waist, and Alex flashed behind the opponent. Meanwhile, Usopp and Sanji had also woken up; although they were lying on the ground, they had heard the conversation.Usopp took out his slingshot and aimed at Ms. All Sunday, while Sanji, perhaps still groggy, pulled out a gun from nowhere and aimed it at her.Seeing everyone preparing to attack, Vivi was stunned; she could hardly believe what was happening before her."Hey... you know all that and you're still doing this..." Usopp looked at Sanji across from him. Wasn't he someone who wouldn't fight women? Why did he pick up a gun to aim at this person? "No... I just felt that the lovely Ms. Wednesday might be in danger!"It seemed Sanji hadn't understood what the other party was talking about; he had only acted because he felt a pretty girl was being threatened.Looking at the three people around her, Ms. All Sunday sighed helplessly. "Sigh... Could you please not point such dangerous things at me?"Sanji and Usopp were thrown away by an invisible force. As for Alex, he didn't make a move. Because he felt that if he had attacked just now, he would definitely have died, so he let her point it at him.Because of the angle, the people below couldn't see what had happened, but Alex saw it clearly—what method this woman used to throw Sanji and Usoppdown.The four people below felt amazed. The next second, flower petals suddenly appeared on everyone's bodies, striking Nami and Zoro's hands, which caused their weapons to fall.When she tried to snatch the scroll at Alex's waist, Alex sensed it, and subsequently struck the opponent's pressure point. He wanted to see if she would have the same reaction. Unfortunately, the opponent's hand only felt pain; there was no symptom of cramping."A Devil Fruit!" "What kind of ability is this?" Zororubbed his struck wrist, while Nami was astonished by the opponent's ability.Sanji stood up at this moment, wanting to see who the opponent was. Looking, he realized it was a pretty big sister, his eyes turning into hearts: "Wow! Looking closely, she really is a beautiful sister!"Alex also knew the opponent didn't have any malicious intent, but he didn't dare to let his guard down. He just stood behind her; if she dared to make any suspicious moves, he would immediately serve her with the Water Prison Technique."Hehehe... Everyone, don't be so anxious! I haven't received any orders, so I have no reason to fight you."Seeing these people relax their vigilance, Ms. All Sunday secretly used her ability to snatch Luffy's hat. Looking at the straw hat in her hand, Ms. All Sunday spun it while asking: "You're the Straw Hat Captain, right? Monkey D. Luffy."Luffy only then realized his hat was missing and couldn't help but open his mouth wide and yell at her. "Bastard! Give me back my hat! You bastard, you want to fight, right?!"Usopp, hiding behind the mast, tremblingly pointed his finger at her, issuing a challenge on Luffy's behalf. "I'm officially considering you an enemy, come down and fight me one-on-one!"Ms. All Sunday, however, didn't care at all. She looked at them with a pitying gaze and then put the straw hat on her head."You guys are truly unfortunate to have picked up a princess being hunted by Baroque Works. But the princess is also unfortunate, being protected by only a few pirates! Ultimately, the most unfortunate thing is that the route your log pose is indicating... the place you'll arrive at next is called Small Garden. I'm afraid that before we even need to lift a finger, you won't make it back to Alabasta! After all, before you even see the Crocodile, you'll all be wiped out."