Chapter 118: The Giants' WrathHaving explained the first objective, Mr. 3 pulled several pictures from his coat and tossed them onto the table.The portraits clearly depicted Nami, Zoro, Alex, Luffy, and Vivi.It seemed they were the drawings created by the Unlucky Duo.Mr. 3 pointed at these pictures and spoke."As for these brats who know the Boss's secret, we just need to use the right bait to draw them out.""Lure them into my service course...""After all, my motto is to commit great crimes through treachery!""Hmph hmph hmph... I have as many ways as I need to win without fighting!"Deep in the forest, Zoro, who had slain a triceratops, was lost; he was currently dragging the triceratops' carcass while wandering around the woods."Damn it! I'm lost. I feel like I've seen this tree before...""The one with the vines wrapping around to the left..."Zoro couldn't believe he was actually lost. Just as he was wondering how to get back to the going merry,He spotted a figure. It was Nami, leaning against a tree.Seeing Nami, Zoro waved and walked toward her. At this moment, Zoro felt like he had found a savior."Hm? Oh... isn't that Nami? You've come at the perfect time!""I'm lost and was just worrying about it...""But what are you doing in a place like this? Hm? Hey?"Zoro waved his hand, but Nami remained motionless.When his hand touched her, he felt a cold sensation. Oh no, it's a trap.That was the only thought in Zoro's mind, but unfortunately, he was a step too late.While Zoro was falling into the enemy's ambush, Nami and Usopp, who had escaped from Brogy, had also reached the depths of the jungle.Compared to Zoro, the two of them were clearly much more panicked; after all, their strength wasn't enough to guarantee their return to the going merry."Mommy! A dinosaur!"They hadn't gone far before a dinosaur began chasing them.Seeing this, the two immediately began to sprint.After running for a while, Usopp was running even faster than Nami, leaving her far behind."Dinosaur!"Nami looked at Usopp ahead of her and roared with her mouth wide open: "Hey, you're running too fast!"Watching Usopp disappear into the distance, Namistopped where she was, gasping for breath and complaining.*Whew... whew...*"...That kid really is..."While Nami was complaining, she turned around and saw a figure standing not far away."Luffy! Thank goodness, what are you doing here?"Seeing that Luffy didn't respond or acknowledge her, Nami hurried forward to check.Before her hand could touch him, she realized it wasn't the real thing.Just as she was about to leave, a mass of milky-white substance appeared from the side, wrapping her up tightly.Nami realized then that she had been ambushed, and she quickly let out a loud scream."MOMMYYYYYYY!"Hearing Nami's tragic scream, Usopp immediately looked back and realized Nami was no longer behind him.Only then did he realize he had left Nami far behind; ah, that scream just now might have been Nami's."Ha! Nami? Nami! Nami!"Only now did he realize Nami was missing. Realizing things were bad, he ran toward Luffy's location with tears streaming down his face."Luffy—""Alex—"Usopp shouted their names as he burst out of the woods.The two watched as Usopp rushed over from a distance, shouting that Nami was gone and that she had been eaten by a dinosaur.Hearing Usopp's words, Luffy and Alex first froze in place, then grabbed him and shouted."Is that true?""What? Usopp, say that again!"Clearly, they didn't believe Nami could be eaten by a dinosaur.Usopp, held by the two, stopped to catch his breath, then composed himself and recounted what had happened."It's true! We were running through the jungle together to escape a dinosaur!""Halfway through, she suddenly screamed!""When I looked back, she was gone...""What should I do? I actually left my comrade to die!"From the side, Vivi told everyone to calm down."Hey, wait, everyone calm down!"Then she looked at Usopp: "Usopp said Namisuddenly vanished, so are you sure she was eaten by a dinosaur?"Usopp didn't immediately confirm: "I was scared to death, how could I have time to confirm!""Besides, if it wasn't a dinosaur, it was a wild beast! What else could it be?"Hearing this, Alex let out a long breath. It seemed Nami hadn't been eaten by a dinosaur; she might have been attacked by an enemy."Usopp, don't forget, there are also those people from Baroque Works on this island."Usopp calmed down upon hearing this. Thinking back now, it really could have been an enemy attack.Vivi also agreed with Alex: "Usopp, Alex might be right.""After all, the only ones launching attacks on us are Baroque Works.""As for why they didn't go after you, it's because you're not on Baroque Works' blacklist yet."Hearing Vivi and Alex's reasoning, Usopp finally calmed down."You're right, maybe it really was an enemy attack.""Not to mention those despicable guys who even put a bomb in the drinks to sabotage this sacred duel that has lasted for a hundred years."Not far away, Dorry and Brogy were still fighting."What's wrong, Dorry? Why are your moves so soft today!""Aren't you the same, Brogy! Your attacks are also weak and powerless!"The two mocked each other while swinging their weapons to attack.The wind pressure generated by the collision of their weapons blew away the surrounding trees.Not far from their duel, Mr. 3 watched their battle and muttered to himself."Strange, why hasn't Dorry the Blue Ogre fallen yet? What a tenacious fellow.""And he doesn't look like he was injured by a bomb? Could it be that Mr. 5 didn't carry out my plan? Impossible, his expression clearly showed he had.""But whatever, let me lend you a hand, Brogy the Red Ogre."As he spoke, he reached out and generated a layer of white wax under Dorry's feet.Dorry inadvertently stepped on it, causing his body to tilt. Seeing this, Brogy immediately swung his axe toward Dorry."Looks like I win, Dorry!"Since his internal organs hadn't been seriously damaged, Dorry immediately stabilized his stance, then swung his giant sword to clash with Brogy's axe.Dorry was sent flying back, while Brogy retreated several steps.Dorry stood up and looked at Brogy: "Brogy, it seems I haven't lost yet!""Gababababababababa! That's more like it, Dorry, let's fight again!"In truth, both of them knew someone was interfering in secret, but they didn't intend to care. After all, this was a sacred duel, and whatever happened was the judgment of the War God Elbaf.Mr. 3, seeing his attack hadn't worked, wanted to strike again.At that moment, a hand rested on his shoulder: "So you're the new reinforcement from Baroque Works!"The voice sounded right in Mr. 3's ear, scaring him into a cold sweat."You... who are you?"After all, he claimed to be an intellectual type and wasn't good at close combat.And since the other person could get next to him without him noticing, this person was definitely an expert."My name is Alex, nice to meet you!"But since the opponent had appeared, he had no choice but to fight.Mr. 3 opened his palms and the hair on his head began to burn. Then, a large amount of milky-white liquid slowly flowed from his palms."Candle Wall! Next is Candle Lock and Candle Harpoon!""Hmph, once my wax hardens, its durability is comparable to steel!"A mass of milky-white substance formed a wall in front of the opponent.Then, three masses of white liquid attacked toward Alex.From the opponent's moves, Alex had already identified his ability; this man's Devil Fruit power was related to candles.Since it was related to candles, choosing a fire attack was the most correct decision.Fire Style: Fire Dragon Flame Bullet!Alex quickly formed hand seals, and three streams of fire erupted from his mouth.Those flying wax masses were burned to nothing in an instant, and even the wall was easily destroyed.The giants who were fighting saw the attack over here."Gababababababa! Little guy, thank you very much!""Gegagegagegagega! You have protected our honor!""Brogy!""Dorry!""Then this will be the final blow!"As they spoke, the two giants rushed toward each other with their weapons; it was clear they were about to use their finishing moves!Boom! Boom! Both weapons struck the other's shield.The powerful recoil sent both of them flying back."Thirteen thousand four hundred and sixty-seven—Victory!""Thirteen thousand four hundred and sixty-seven—Draw!"Both fell to the ground. It seemed they wanted to decide the outcome as quickly as possible so they could help their friends.Mr. 3 already knew how terrifying Alex was; his moves completely countered his own."Damn it, I'm not a combat-type to begin with. Now I have to fight someone who counters me, this is really unfavorable!""But, get lost you brat, I just need to reach that place!"Mr. 3 reached a spot not far away, where a large, colorful piece of candle armor was stationed.Fortunately, he had a backup plan. Thinking of this, Mr. 3 walked over, the hair on his head burning again, and he merged with the mech."Pretty boy, if you have the guts, fight me in close combat!"Actually, Mr. 3 didn't believe anyone would give up their own advantage to fight someone else; those words were just a standard taunt.But he didn't expect this brat to actually choose to fight him in close combat.Seeing this, he was so happy he almost shouted out."Brat, I am at my strongest now! Prepare to die!"Mr. 3 swung his fist toward Alex.Alex calmly and quickly raised his right arm. Earth Release: Added-Weight Rock Technique!A large amount of rock attached to Alex's right arm, and then their fists collided.Even with Ms. Goldenweek's support, Mr. 3's armor couldn't withstand this move.The wax on the outside slowly fell away, revealing his body.
Chapter 119: Pursuers DispersedMr. 3 was sent flying by this move from Alex."Pfft! Cough... cough cough, not bad for a brat! But how will you handle this situation!"While speaking, Mr. 3 generated several wax figures. Alex recognized the likenesses of these figures; besides Sanji, everyone else was there, even Luffy.It seems they hadn't just kidnapped Nami; they had even captured Luffy.But how did they manage to catch Luffy? And if Zoro was caught, why was Sanji fine?There were too many questions, but it didn't matter. As long as he caught the opponent, none of this would be a problem."So, what do you want to say?""I can let your friends go, but you have to let me leave the island safely. How about that?"Mr. 3 looked at him calmly. He believed Alex would accept his proposal; after all, it was a very simple matter.It was a pity that Mr. 3 was overthinking things. Just as the two were talking, a voice came from behind him."Gaga gaga gaga gaga! Little white-haired brat, thank you for your help. Next, let us two handle these guys.""Ka baba baba baba baba! Dorry is right. Not only did they ruin our sacred duel, but they also intended to harm our friends. This behavior is unforgivable!"Hearing the voice, Mr. 3 turned around to look, and a giant sword appeared before him.Seeing that he couldn't dodge, he had no choice but to defend. Unfortunately, his techniques were useless in front of the two giants.That candle, strong enough to rival steel, was like a hot knife cutting through butter under Dorry's strike; there was no difference.The next second, Mr. 3 was sent flying by Dorry."Thanks, you two uncles. Next, it's time to go find those trapped partners!"Alex released a clone and began to explore the entire island.Not far away, he saw a huge white building; this building was very ornate.But one look was enough to know this was Mr. 3's handiwork.And trapped below were several people: Luffy, Vivi, Nami, Zoro, and Usopp.As for Karoo, he was placed to the side, unable to move under Ms. Valentine's foot.Upon seeing this, the clone immediately dispelled itself, passing the intelligence back to the main body.Through the recovered information, Alex knew where they were, but he was also puzzled: how could Luffy have been caught?As for why Luffy was caught, there was a reason for everything.It turned out that after Usopp arrived and shared the news about Nami, Alex was too worried to leave everyone and wanted to go explore the forest alone.But not long after he left, he saw a figure sneaking toward the giant uncles' battlefield.Alex was afraid that someone would try to ambush the two giant uncles again, so he hurriedly followed.Sure enough, that man with hair styled like the number 3 used a move that made Uncle Dorry slip and nearly get beheaded by Uncle Brogy.Fortunately, Uncle Dorry had superb martial arts skills and quickly steadied himself, falling down.Just as that person was about to strike again, Alexappeared beside him and stopped his action.After Alex left, two more people arrived at Luffy's location; they were Mr. 5 and Ms. Valentine.They brought Karoo, who was bound, before the three of them. Karoo was heavily scarred, looking as if he had been tortured.Mr. 5 threw Karoo down and looked coldly at the people in front of him."I was wondering if this guy still has any use for you people?"Ms. Valentine beside him also let out that disgusting laugh: "Ya hahahaha, but thinking about it now, it should be useless!"Seeing Karoo's heavily injured figure, Vivi went to its side and hugged it."...Why did you do this... This matter has nothing to do with Karoo!"Usopp didn't know who these two were and hurriedly asked Luffy beside him."Hey, Luffy, who are these guys?""They're the guys who appeared in town last time!"Mr. 5 didn't pay much attention to Usopp and Luffybut looked at Vivi."Is that so? You and this bird don't have any relationship, huh? Looks like I thought wrong. But that doesn't matter; we originally wanted to lure the princess away from that dangerous Straw Hat. So, let that bird scream. But this bird is really stubborn to the end; even though we tortured him, he wouldn't scream. However, since Straw Hat is here, that makes things easy. Hey, Ms. Goldenweek, the one wearing the Straw Hat is up to you.""What a bother."A little girl's figure walked out from behind the jungle, holding a rice cracker in one hand and a paintbrush in the other.With a few swishes, a black pattern of strange dye appeared behind Luffy."Colors Trap: Betrayal Black!"Usopp raised his slingshot and fired at Mr. 5: "Special Move: Gunpowder Star!"Mr. 5 remained unmoved and let the attack hit him, while Ms. Valentine hugged Ms. Goldenweek and floated into the air to dodge the attack.Seeing the opponent start attacking, Usopphurriedly yelled at Luffy beside him."Luffy, hurry up and attack!""I don't want to!"Hearing this, Usopp was stunned on the spot; he couldn't imagine Luffy saying something like this."Lu... Luffy! What on earth is wrong with you?""Ya hahahaha! This is Ms. Goldenweek's ability!""That's right, she is a painter who can reproduce colors in reality. She uses pigments to send suggestions into people's minds through the impressions of refined colors."Vivi saw this scene and told Usopp what was going on.Hearing these words, Usopp was shocked: "Suggestions? That's not good. A power like suggestion that can rival hypnosis, on that idiot... It will exert powerful might!"Sure enough, at this moment, no matter how Usoppyelled, Luffy remained unmoved."Well said, but, Colors Trap: Bullfight Red!"Several red pigments appeared on Usopp and the others, and the next moment, Luffy's attack followed."Gum-Gum... Rocket!"This move knocked Usopp, Vivi, and Karoounconscious.Then Ms. Goldenweek waved her brush again, this time it was."Colors Trap: Calm Green!"Yellow and blue colors appeared on Luffy, and at the same time, they slowly merged into green.The next second, Luffy became like an old man, sitting on the spot just wanting to drink tea.Mr. 5 on the side was also excited to see that they had captured the group so easily.Then he stepped forward to tie the group up and took them to the designated location.A huge candle stand stood there.Below were Zoro and Nami.After throwing the three on the ground, Mr. 5 leaned against a nearby tree to rest, silently waiting for Mr. 3's arrival.At this time, Mr. 3 was sent flying by the giant, and the direction he flew was exactly where the candle stand was.Seeing his figure, Ms. Valentine immediately stepped forward to save him."What happened? Why were you sent flying?"Mr. 3 shook his head to clear it; if he hadn't added a few more layers of candle wax to the back of his head at the last moment, he estimated his head would have already been sliced off."Damn it, Mr. 5, did you complete the task I gave you! Why didn't that Blue Ogre Dorry get injured!"Hearing this, Mr. 5 was a bit at a loss; in his memory, he had indeed completed it."But forget it, the enemy has already attacked. By the way, who are these guys?""These are the people the boss wants, namely Luffyand Vivi. As for this long-nose guy, he's probably useless; let's just kill him!"On the stand, Zoro looked at the people below and couldn't help but sigh."Hey, Usopp, how did you guys get caught?"Usopp finally recovered, looked at Zoro and Nami on the candle stand, and cried."Nami, you're not dead, that's great! Zoro, don't mention how we got here; it's all because of this guy Luffy!"Although he knew he attacked because of someone else's move, being knocked unconscious by his own Captain was still a bit uncomfortable."Is that so? Then leave it to me!"After saying that, Zoro drew the sword at his waist and began to hack at the bottom.Unfortunately, after the blade slid across the candle stand, a large amount of sparks were produced."Don't waste your effort; this has a hardness comparable to steel!"Mr. 3 told Zoro to stop doing useless work and at the same time fixed Vivi, Usopp, and Luffy to the top."Is that so? Since I can't cut steel, then I can cut this, right!"The next second, Zoro raised the sword in his hand and slashed toward his own legs.Others saw this and immediately stopped Zoro: "Are you crazy? You want to cut off your own legs!""So what? It's better than dying here!"Hearing Zoro's words, Vivi looked at him: "That—I'm counting on you too!"Looking at Vivi's expression, Zoro nodded and then slashed toward his own legs.The next second, the earth began to shake, and two huge figures walked over.This was the effect produced when Dorry and Brogywere running.Seeing this, Zoro stopped, but his feet were almost cut off.When Dorry and Brogy saw the candle stand, they picked up their weapons and directly cut the candle stand apart.Alex also took the opportunity to use Fire Release: Great Fireball Technique on the candle stand.The entire candle was completely melted, and at the same time, they were all saved."Ka baba baba baba! Next, leave these enemies to us!""Gaga gaga gaga! That's right, they not only ruined our sacred duel but also hurt our friendship!""Next, you will have to bear the wrath of the warriors of Elbaf!" × 2Dorry and Brogy joined forces and unleashed a move.Mr. 3, Mr. 5, Ms. Valentine, and Ms. Goldenweek all tried to resist.Unfortunately, they overestimated themselves and underestimated the strength of the two giant uncles.The four of them turned into four meteors flying across the sky, disappearing into nowhere.Seeing the pursuers resolved, Alex stepped forward to check.Seeing that everyone was fine, he finally felt relieved.Next, the group began to discuss what had just happened, but everyone forgot about Sanji's existence.At this time, Sanji was dragging the dinosaur he had just hunted to a milky white building."Geez, where is this place? Hello, is anyone inside? I'm coming in!"Talking to himself, Sanji pushed open the door and walked in, finding it filled with black tea and rice crackers.Seeing that there was no one here, he sat down and started tasting the black tea on his own: "Ah, the black tea here is really delicious!"After finishing two cups, he realized what he needed to do: "Ah... that's not right... This is no time for leisurely drinking black tea, is it? Nami-san, she's waiting for me to rescue her! Wait a second... in the jungle, why would there be such a leisurely place?"Just as Sanji was puzzled, a sound came from a bamboo basket on the side."Purupuru... Purupuru..."(Sorry everyone, the author recently has gum swelling, leading to facial swelling. The original three updates per day will be changed to two updates per day. I will return to three updates once the swelling subsides.)
Chapter 120: Marine Pursuit"Purupurupuru... Purupurupuru...""What is this?" Sanji opened the bamboo basket nearby and took out the item inside to inspect it."What the heck, isn't this a Den Den Mushi..."Sanji then connected the call; after all, he often worked as a server at the Baratie restaurant and was very familiar with this task."Hello, this is the Poop Western Restaurant. Do you have a reservation?"However, a calm voice came from the other side of the Den Den Mushi: "Don't play dumb with me! Idiot! Also, why haven't you reported to me yet..."Hearing this, Sanji was somewhat confused. What report?"...Report... Ah... um... who is this?"Hearing the other party say that, the voice on the other end revealed his identity: "It is I, Mr.0..."Hearing this title, Sanji began to think. Mr... 0? Hiss, isn't Mr.0... isn't that the code name of the enemy boss that Vivi mentioned?So that means the person on the other end of this Den Den Mushi is... is one of the Seven Warlords of the Sea...Seeing that Sanji remained silent, the person on the other end assumed he was pondering something and continued to press: "It has been many days since I issued the order! So, Mr.3, how are things going?"Hearing this, Sanji realized that this Den Den Mushibelonged to Mr.3, and that this place could be considered their base. In other words, these people hunting Vivi had already landed on this island.While thinking about his companions, Sanji sat silently in his original spot without saying a word.However, Crocodile on the other end grew impatient."Why aren't you speaking? And I ask you, have you taken care of Princess Vivi and the Straw Hat crew?"Hearing this, Sanji exhaled a puff of smoke, thinking to himself that as long as he bluffed his way through, he could prevent the subsequent assassins from coming."Ah... the mission is complete! I've taken out everyone who knows your secret. So, there's no need to hunt those people anymore."Although Crocodile found his accent strange, upon hearing that they had been killed, he did not doubt any further."...Is that so? Then thank you for your hard work. Now, the Unlucky Lovers are heading that way. They are going to confirm the mission you completed. And they'll bring something along.""Unlucky Lovers?... Something?"Even hearing this, Crocodile did not suspect that the person on the other end was an imposter. Instead, he patiently explained to him."It's the Eternal Pose to the Alabasta Kingdom... It's time for you and Ms. Goldenweek to go to the Alabasta Kingdom together... When that time comes! That is when we will begin our most important battle! We will discuss the specific details after arriving in Alabasta. Wait for my command until then!"As Crocodile finished speaking, Sanji waited for the arrival of the Unlucky Lovers.He looked out the window to see two animals standing there, both wearing sunglasses, exuding an aura that said they were not to be trifled with.Seeing this, Sanji muttered to himself: "Who are these guys..."Unfortunately, his words were heard by Crocodile on the other end."Hey! What's wrong?" Crocodile, thinking something was happening, hurriedly asked.Sanji replied: "No... nothing..."After the Unlucky Lovers saw that it was not Mr.3 but someone else, they realized the mission had failed.The next second, the Sea Otter opened the shell at its waist, splitting it in two, with sharp blades exposed on each half, while the Vulture exposed two firearms from its back.Then the Sea Otter attacked first, brandishing the shells in its hands at Sanji.Sanji lifted his leg to dodge the attack, and before he could react, several bullets came flying toward him.Seeing the bullets, Sanji had to bend down again to dodge the attack.Seeing the opponents attack without a word, Sanjiwas puzzled: "Damn it, what the hell is going on?"Seeing that the Vulture's attack was ineffective, the Sea Otter tried to continue, but was kicked away by Sanji."Want to kill me? A for effort, but you have terrible judgment."The Vulture, seeing its partner knocked unconscious, aimed its gun at Sanji once again.However, unfortunately for them, this move was ineffective against Sanji; he jumped up instantly and then kicked the Vulture unconscious with a powerful blow."Bastards! Of these two guys, you are the one I wanted to hit the most! You grass chicken!"Perhaps the noise from Sanji's attack was too loud, as Crocodile heard it and hurriedly asked what was happening."What's the matter?"Sanji went to the Den Den Mushi and responded in a rather relaxed tone."Ah... no... nothing! No, it's nothing! That guy with the Straw Hat was still alive! But it's fine now! I just took him out! Don't worry!"Hearing this, Crocodile's tone changed noticeably."You mean... he's still alive! But didn't you just say the mission was complete?"Although the other party's tone had changed, Sanjididn't pick up on it: "Yeah, I thought the mission was complete. I didn't expect that guy to be so tenacious..."Hearing this, Crocodile's tone became even darker: "In other words, you... you gave me a false report... Very well... you..."It was clear that Crocodile was driven mad by the other's words, but Sanji didn't care; his mission was to stall for time.Perhaps he had sensed something was off, but he still responded in that same tone."Oh my! Don't be so hung up on what I said! Well... he really did stop breathing just now. So, there's no need to send more assassins. Is that OK?"Hearing this, Crocodile was burning with rage, but he forced himself to control his tone, not letting the other party hear even the slightest change."Ah! Fine! Regardless, go directly to Alabasta from there! Also! This is the last time we use radio contact; it won't work next time. If the Marines happen to trace it, we'll be in trouble. So, future orders will be sent to you via written instructions as usual. That's it, good luck, Mr.3!"After saying this, Crocodile hung up the Den Den Mushi and then looked at Ms. All Sunday beside him."Ms. All Sunday..."Ms. All Sunday, who was sitting on the sofa reading a book, heard her boss calling her and responded immediately."What is it?""Partner up with Mr. 2 Bon Kurei and go to Little Garden together. On the route from Alabasta to Little Garden. Take out Mr.3!"Hearing Crocodile's words, Ms. All Sunday stood up and said in a helpless tone."You are so cruel! Mr.0 Crocodile."Regarding her words, Crocodile impatiently asked her: "What, do you have enough manpower now that you want to take me out?"Faced with Crocodile's question, Ms. All Sundayacted scared, spread her hands, and turned to leave."No, how could I dare? I'll go right away."Seeing her leave, Crocodile's anger subsided a little.On the other side, Sanji saw the call hang up. Without any hesitation, he began to check the Unlucky Lovers' backpack.An item fell out and rolled onto the ground; he picked it up and took a look."This is!"The shape was exactly that of an Eternal Pose to Alabasta. Sanji had seen it before; it was the one that beautiful big sister had brought over, exactly the same.Meanwhile, on the sea, a warship received a radio signal."Colonel! Colonel Smoker! We've received a strange signal!"Hearing this, Smoker sat up and walked quickly to the soldier to ask."What?"Then the soldier played the collected signal again."Play it once and let me hear.""Yes, Colonel!""Wait a second, oh right, Tashigi, you come over here too!"At this moment, Tashigi was admiring the fine sword she had just confiscated."Wow, what a beautiful sword with a hamon! This is the most famous Kashu! As expected of the Grand Line; I haven't been here long, and I've already obtained such a famous sword!"On the other side, in the eavesdropping room, Smoker saw that Tashigi still hadn't come over and immediately shouted."Tashigi! Did you hear what I said? You super sword-nut!"Tashigi, who was busy admiring the precious sword, finally heard Colonel Smoker's words.She stumbled as she ran toward the eavesdropping room, and in her panic, she used too much force and bent the doorframe."Huh? Ah! Ah! What is it! Colonel Smoker? Do you want coffee again?"Seeing her still acting so reckless, Smoker was so angry he didn't know where to direct his rage."Idiot, I called you here to monitor the signal!"Realizing she had made a mistake, Tashigi lowered her head and walked over to the soldier wearing the black Den Den Mushi."Alright, play that audio again. Tashigi, listen carefully; it's two men talking."The soldier on the side played the signal and told Tashigi: "Chief Petty Officer, this is the signal we just received! Also, is this distance okay?"Tashigi rubbed her head to indicate it was fine, and the soldier began the operation.The black Den Den Mushi opened its eyes and began to relay the signal that had just been captured."Gugu—shhh—Princess Vivi and Straw Hat... gugu... wearing a Straw Hat... gugu... yeah... mission... complete... gugu..."The intercepted signal finished playing.However, Tashigi was exceptionally excited after listening: "Does 'wearing a Straw Hat' refer to the Straw Hat crew?""That's right! Although the signal is weak! But based on the conversation between these two men, we got four keywords... namely Princess Vivi, Straw Hat, Mr.0, and Written Instructions!"Hearing this, Tashigi pointed to the person tied to the mast and asked."Could Mr.0 have some connection to the strange swordsman Mr.11 we caught on the road a few days ago?"Regarding Tashigi's doubt, Smoker indicated that her suspicion was correct."Yeah! The numbers might be their code names... and they complete their missions based on written instructions. It looks like they are a dangerous criminal organization..."Hearing the two talking, the person tied to the mast said with a look of disdain: "Heh heh... What Mr.0? What criminal organization? Stop guessing and imagining things!"That's right, this person was one of the members of Baroque Works, and his code name was Mr.11.Hearing the other party say this, Smoker also asked with disdain: "Then, why do you have written instructions in your pocket, kid?"
Chapter 121: Silver LiningHearing this, Mr. 11 immediately panicked. He remembered in his memory that he had already burned the order form, so how could the other side have discovered it?"Huh? Ah... that is... well..."At the same time, he tried to stall Smoker with his words.But seeing the expression on the other man's face, Smoker was convinced his guess was correct."Don't bother thinking about it. In fact, you have nothing in your pockets."Hearing this, Mr. 11 immediately broke down. This meant that he had betrayed the information to the other side, and he figured the Boss would kill him for it.Certain that his deduction was correct, Smokerreturned to his seat and began to think."Princess Vivi... That is indeed the name of the missing princess of the Alabasta Kingdom."Tashigi, standing to the side, also noticed some issues: "This is all too coincidental! Isn't the AlabastaKingdom currently experiencing an uprising? Could it be that the criminal organization here and the Straw Hat are plotting this?"Regarding Tashigi's question, Smoker indicated he didn't know."I don't know. However, this is currently the only lead we have on the whereabouts of the Straw Hat."Upon hearing this, Tashigi suggested they set sail immediately.Smoker nodded and had a soldier contact headquarters to send a permanent pose to Alabasta.Then, the entire warship headed towards the Alabasta Kingdom.On the other side, on Little Garden, Alex had already rescued everyone and began treating them.He then pulled a few leaves from the nearby forest, did some simple trimming, and used the Transformation Technique to turn them into clothes to drape over everyone.Because the giant candle stand had been roasted by flames, their upper garments had been burned away. Plus, since this was the prehistoric era, some unknown poisonous insects might not be dead yet.To prevent everyone's skin from being bitten by insects and catching diseases, Alex prepared to make some clothes to help them.While making the clothes, he accidentally got bitten by an insect similar to a centipede.However, he didn't pay it any mind, as it was nothing serious, and after sitting down, he began treating the two giant uncles nearby.After seeing the scars on Zoro's legs, Alex scolded him severely, but the treatment on his hands didn't stop.After the treatment was finished, he looked at his companions nearby."Honestly, how are you all so stupid? You actually ran into the enemy's trap, especially you, Luffy!""Hahaha! I'm not as good as you say!"Hearing Luffy actually say that, Alex immediately punched Luffy on the head."Idiot, I wasn't praising you!"However, this blow was completely ineffective on Luffy, but he realized his mistake and immediately apologized to Alex."Sorry, I won't do it next time!"Zoro, standing to the side, also said: "You can't blame Luffy for this. After all, someone as simple-minded as him is easily susceptible to attacks like hypnosis and emotional manipulation."Even the victim, Usopp, stood up and said he forgave Luffy.Seeing everyone speaking up for him, Luffy jumped up happily and said: "That's great, thanks everyone. By the way, there are senbei here, do you want to eat?"Brogy and Dorry, on the other hand, watched the little guys below jumping around happily and couldn't help but laugh out loud."Gabababababa! If it weren't for you, our duel would have been ruined. I really don't know how to thank you.""Gagagagagagaga! He's right, we even forgot that our heads were worth so much money!"Vivi, standing to the side, felt deeply sorry for this: "I'm sorry, because of me, those people... They were all able to come to this island because of me!"Hearing Vivi like this, Nami grabbed her face and pinched it hard."Don't say things like that ever again!"The pinched Vivi said it hurt, and Alex also said: "Nami, use a bit more strength. If it doesn't hurt, this little girl won't learn her lesson."After Alex finished speaking, Nami increased the force of her pinch on Vivi.Usopp, who had been treated, sat on the ground eating senbei while watching Nami punish Vivi.At the same time, he comforted her: "Yeah! Vivi, don't be so down."Luffy picked up a piece of senbei and handed it to the two: "Want some senbei?"Even Karoo was tasting the senbei. Alex walked up and took a piece to eat a few bites. Must say, it was indeed delicious.Seeing this group of people like this, Nami stopped and looked at them speechlessly."Say, where did you get these senbei?""Oh, these fell off Ms. Goldenweek after she was knocked away by the giant uncles," Alex explained the origin of the senbei.Nami didn't care about the details. She looked at Vivi and said: "However, Vivi, you don't need to be too sad. We won't blame you."Seeing this, Vivi silently wiped the tears from the corners of her eyes.Hearing this, Luffy held up a senbei and shouted: "Alright! Let's have a senbei party!"Alex quickly waved his hand and said: "I have food here, we can have a large banquet!"Usopp also said that was fine, he would get a bonfire going.But Zoro stopped everyone and said: "Everyone, calm down for a second. Don't forget it will take a year to get to the next island, it's just too long..."Nami also said: "Yeah, this isn't a joke, it really is too long."Luffy asked the two giant uncles: "Hey, help us out, uncles."To Luffy's words, Dorry wondered if the guy was an idiot: "We can't do anything about that!"Alex said not to worry: "Don't forget there are Baroque Works members here, so they must have a base. As long as we find a Den Den Mushi, we can get their communication. Then we can see if we can find a new log pose, or have a permanent pose sent over..."Hearing this, everyone felt a little more at ease, although the possibility was slim. After all, who would record their companion's phone number while working?At this moment, a voice came from afar: "Hooah—Nami! Vivi! And everyone!"It turned out to be Sanji running out of the forest, but why did he only mention Nami and Vivi, while ignoring the others as "everyone"?Upon seeing that everyone was safe and sound, Sanji shouted: "Everyone is safe, right? That's great... That's great!""Hi! Sanji!" Luffy waved to signal him.Usopp, on the other hand, complained that he didn't come to save them.Alex also waved to signal him.However, he didn't see Alex and Luffy's signals and ran straight towards Nami and the others.Then he saw Uncle Dorry not far away.Seeing the other's appearance, Sanji shouted: "What is this! Are you Mr. 3?"Nami asked him how he knew about Mr. 3.But Sanji didn't answer. He looked at Nami. He hadn't seen her for a long time and was always extra excited when he saw her again.Seeing this, Sanji couldn't help but exclaim: "Ohoho! Nami! Why are you always so charming?"Seeing him acting so unserious, Nami raised her fist and hit him hard on the head a few times.Luffy laughed: "Hahaha, Sanji got hit!"After dealing with Sanji, Nami finally let him explain what he had just experienced.Taking this opportunity, Sanji carefully explained what happened just now.After listening, Vivi couldn't believe it: "So... just now... you were talking to Mr. 0?"Hearing Vivi's question, Sanji nodded: "Yeah... that's right... He seemed to mistake me for Mr. 3!""Then, he thinks we're dead?""Yeah... that's what I said."After hearing the exchange, Usopp happily raised his hands: "In that case, the assassins won't come after us anymore. But we still can't move from here."Thinking of this, the happy Usopp let his arms droop again.Hearing Usopp say that, Sanji thought there was still something keeping them here."What happened? Can't move? Do we still need to stay on this island? As it happens, I picked this up..."Saying that, he took the permanent pose to Alabasta out of his pocket.Then everyone's jaws dropped.They didn't expect him to have gotten this, and suddenly everyone cheered loudly."This is a permanent pose to Alabasta!""That's awesome!""We can set sail!"Vivi was even more excited and hugged Sanji: "Thank you! Sanji, really thank you!"Seeing the beauty throw herself into his arms, Sanjiwas at a loss, and could only say there was no need to be so polite.Seeing the permanent pose, Luffy held up the senbei in his hand and shouted: "Great, let's have a senbei party!""Luffy, a senbei party won't work, after all, there are only three left. How about adding some meat?"Alex quickly told Luffy that there weren't enough senbei, only three left.Usopp also said: "That's right, there are only three senbei left, can we still have a party?"Nami grabbed a senbei and said to Luffy: "Captain, now is not the time for this. We need to set sail quickly. We don't have time to dawdle!"Hearing Nami's words, Sanji stood up. Suddenly he remembered something and asked Zoro: "By the way! Hey Zoro! You didn't forget our hunting contest, did you?"Hearing Sanji's question, Zoro said of course not: "That, if you put it that way, I should have won. After all, I caught a very large rhinoceros."Hearing Zoro's words, someone asked how a rhinoceros would be eaten?Regarding their hunting contest, Alex said: "Hey, you two didn't forget the fruit, did you!"Both said they had harvested two large baskets of fruit, which was enough.Hearing the conversation, the giant uncles began to think. The hunting contest, they seemed to have some impression, but it had been too long, and they couldn't quite remember."Well, Fatty Uncle and Giant Uncle, we're going now."Luffy put on his Straw Hat and said goodbye to the two giants.Alex opened a sealing scroll, created a large number of wooden barrels, poured a large amount of water into them, and handed them to the two."Two uncles, the drinks here are enough for you to drink for a while. Although the quantity is not large, it's our token of appreciation."
Chapter 122: Island-Eater"Gaga-gaga-gaga! This is truly wonderful!""Kaba-baba-baba! Thank you so much, our friend!"Having finished packing everything, the group waved goodbye to the two giant uncles.Watching them leave, the two giants, Dorry and Brogy, felt a bit reluctant."Is that so? Ah? You're leaving right away?""We really are a bit reluctant to see you go, but you can't stay here forever! Also, little girl, I hope your country is alright!""Thank you!" Vivi thanked the two of them.Then, the others also said their goodbyes one by one.Luffy shouted loudly at the two, "You two uncles, make sure you don't die!"Although the phrasing had issues, the sentiment was good.Usopp also expressed to Brogy: "Master! I! One day! I will go to Elbaf!"Alex waved at the two, "Goodbye, Uncle Dorry, Uncle Brogy, I hope we meet again on the Grand Line in the future!"Meanwhile, Zoro and Sanji walked while arguing about whose prey was the largest.Gradually, everyone left the area.Watching them leave, the expressions of the two giant uncles became a bit downcast.Brogy looked at Dorry, "Our friends' ship has set sail..."Dorry nodded in response, "Indeed! We cannot just stand by and watch. There is still a monster hiding in the eastern sea!""Dorry, how is your recovery...""Thanks to that little white-haired guy... the wound has mostly recovered! How about you?""The same as you!"The two looked at each other, then turned to look at their weapons on the side."The lifespan of my battle axe and your sword is about at its end... How about it, are you confident you can win?""Perhaps! This is the weapon that has fought with me for over a hundred years..."After saying this, the two picked up their respective weapons, stood up, and walked toward the river mouth to the east.As they walked, they sighed, "For them! It is worth dying for!""It is decided!"Back on the going merry, Sanji and Zoro walked over, each carrying a large basket of fruit in one hand and a dinosaur in the other.Putting down the food, the two looked at each other's prey, thoughts of having already won flashing through their minds."I won!""I won!"Seeing that the other was also claiming victory, the two stubbornly pressed their foreheads together.Sanji pointed at his Tyrannosaurus Rex and triumphantly indicated to Zoro, "Look closely! My lizard won!"Zoro also triumphantly pointed at his Triceratops, indicating that he had won. At the same time, he expressed distrust in Sanji's eyes, "Damn cook, is there something wrong with your eyes? Obviously, my rhinoceros won!""Hey, the weight of both your prey is about the same, can't you just call it a draw!"Regarding Usopp's words, the two chose to make him shut up; after all, they had to determine who won and who lost.Nami returned to the room, threw off the leaves, put on a short-sleeved shirt, and when she came out again, she saw the two arguing, which caused her to roar in anger."How long are you going to keep arguing? We are about to set sail!""Yes, ma'am! Nami!" Sanji responded to Nami with that same expression.After saying this, Nami went to the bow of the ship. For some reason, her arm felt itchy, as if it had been bitten by a bug.Alex also came to the side of the two, sealed the two prey into a scroll, and then the three of them boarded the ship.Zoro, seeing Sanji give up the argument, automatically assumed he had won and said to Usopp, "Hey! Usopp! Look, I won, right?"Usopp hurriedly waved his hands, "I have no interest in being a referee. Also, can't you just count it as a draw?""There are no draws in a competition!" This was Zoro's philosophy.However, one sentence from Alex completely killed the competition."Excluding the inedible bones and organs, the rest is the same weight, so it is a draw."Hearing this, Zoro, who had been happy just a moment ago, was now dejected.But there was no other way, so the two had to board the going merry and move forward."If we proceed straight like this, we can reach the east side of the island." Nami glanced at the map and nodded confidently.Not long after the going merry set sail, they saw the figures of the two uncles, Dorry and Brogy.Luffy pointed at the figures in the distance and shouted, "Oh! Everyone look, it's the uncles... Are they here to see us off?"Following the direction Luffy pointed, everyone saw the figures of the two giant uncles standing there, and in front of them was the exit to the sea.The two also heard the noise coming from behind and knew that Luffy and the others had arrived."In the past, the people who arrived on this island...""The main reason they couldn't reach the next island is right in front."Brogy and Dorry were saying some inexplicable words.Everyone on the going merry didn't know what the two were talking about.Nami asked the two with some confusion, "Did something happen?"But the two remained unmoved, and then they said some more strange words."You risked your lives to defend our honor.""So your enemies are our enemies.""We must never let a friend's pirate flag be broken!""Trust us and proceed straight ahead; no matter what happens, keep moving forward!"Hearing the two uncles say this, Luffy nodded to indicate he understood."Understood, straight ahead!"Zoro, like Nami, wondered what on earth was going on.The two giants watched the ship slowly leave Small Garden and waved goodbye to everyone.Watching the going merry leave, Dorry felt a bit reluctant, "Goodbye! I hope we can meet again!"Beside him, Brogy comforted him, "We will definitely meet again!"Everyone waved goodbye to the two, "We definitely will, uncles, we will definitely meet again!"Suddenly, Nami seemed to realize something and panicked when she saw something in front of the ship, "Look! In front!"Directly ahead, the sea level suddenly rose, revealing a row of bayonet-like "stone pillars," and at the same time, a large piece of "land" began to rise.Seeing this, Dorry and Brogy knew that the opponent had arrived."Has it appeared? The Island-Eater!""Do not be afraid, we will clear the way for you in the name of Elbaf!"Then, that piece of "land" continued to rise, and as it slowly rose, a pair of eyes were revealed, followed by a huge mouth.It turned out that this was not "land" but a giant goldfish!It was the enemy that Dorry and Brogy spoke of — the Island-Eater!Seeing this, everyone was panicked, because this thing was too huge; just one tooth was much larger than the entire going merry.Seeing this scene, Nami began to direct the others, "Hold the rudder steady! Hurry, we're about to be swallowed!"Sanji looked at the thing in the distance with some confusion, "What is that thing? Is it a goldfish?"Usopp heard the words "huge" and "goldfish," and he began to think to himself; it seemed he had heard of these things somewhere before."Usopp, hurry up!"Seeing that everyone remained unmoved, Namibegan to urge Usopp to hold the rudder steady quickly."No—it won't work! Straight ahead! Right—right? Luffy!"Regarding Nami's urging, Usopp refused."Don't be like that, Nami, don't forget what those two uncles said just now. They told us to go straight ahead, so we must trust them, right Luffy!" Alex also spoke up to support Usopp.And Luffy, standing at the bow, said, "Yeah! That goes without saying!"Hearing the three of them, Nami was a bit frantic, "Stop saying silly things! This is different from what happened with Laboon!"Luffy, seeing Nami still like this, was a bit impatient."I know! Stop arguing! Here! The last piece of rice cracker for you!"Saying this, he took a rice cracker from his chest and handed it to Nami.Seeing Luffy's behavior, Nami opened her mouth wide and shouted at him, "You're still in the mood to joke? We need to turn around quickly!"Zoro, leaning to the side, said, "Nami! Let it go..."Also leaning on the ship was Karoo, who was struggling to secure itself to the ship to prevent falling off.Nami felt a bit scared hearing Zoro's words and could only cry while eating the rice cracker in her hand.After finishing it, she looked at Luffy, "Luffy! We can trust those giants, right!"Luffy just nodded and didn't say a word.Beside her, Vivi felt a bit shocked and said to Nami, "Are you crazy! Do you really want to go into the monster's mouth?""I don't want to either, but it's too late!"The next second, the giant goldfish closed its mouth and swallowed the going merry into its belly.Alex opened his eyes; he felt there was a slight issue with his Chakra flow, but he didn't pay attention to it, thinking it was just caused by being too tired recently.Then, in Alex's eyes, he saw the two giant uncles on the shore performing some kind of strange pose.On the island of Small Garden, Dorry and Brogystruck a strange pose, looking at the Island-Eater in front of them."Still think you're quite something, Island-Eater! You detestable goldfish monster!""It's too surprising! This guy has a huge appetite! It has eaten all the islands in this area! Looking at it this way, its droppings must be huge too.""It certainly looks like it; why don't we name that island the 'Island of Nothing'...""Gaga-gaga! Brogy, do you remember when we used to mistake those piles of waste for a new continent and even went ashore?""Kaba-baba-baba-baba-baba! Yes, I miss the old days! Seeing them reminds me of the past...""However! The ones who won't let us pass here can only be that giant blood-stained snake!"Dorry struck a pose, his arm muscles bulging; it looked like he was about to unleash a fierce technique!"So, next, please witness the most powerful gun of the Giant Race from Elbaf!"Brogy was the same; he struck a pose, his arms bulging, and suddenly exerted force!The Straw Hat crew inside the goldfish's belly were still in the middle of falling."Straight—ahead!""Straight ahead! Straight ahead!"Usopp and Luffy shouted to go straight ahead, while Nami crouched on the deck, "What are you talking about? We've already been swallowed.""No, Nami, we still have hope. The two uncles were right; we must go straight ahead."Nami looked at Alex, and seeing that he had already opened those two eyes, she immediately asked."Alex, did you see something..."Alex didn't speak, but a name reached everyone's ears—Hakoku!
Chapter 123: Falling IllWith that sound, they saw the sky once again.The going merry was flying through the air, and everyone looked down at the sea below, shouting: "Woo—hoo—! We jumped out!"No one knew exactly what had happened, except for Nami, who instructed everyone."Quick! Everyone, don't look back! Keep going! Just keep going!"But everyone looked back anyway and discovered a huge circular hole in the goldfish's belly.Through the hole, they could see the two giant uncles on Small Garden, though their weapons were shattered.At this moment, the two giants stood on either side of the island like statues, holding up their broken weapons and shouting: "Go!"Then, hearty laughter spread across the horizon."Gaba-ba-ba-ba-ba-ba-ba!""Gaga-ga-ga-ga-ga-ga-ga!"The going merry surged forward with this force, and Usopp saw the scene of the sea behind them having been split open."Terrifying, it even split the sea! Is this the power of the warriors of Elbaf!"Then the ship sailed into the distance until Small Garden could no longer be seen."What... what kind of power was that!" In Alex's eyes, he had seen everything clearly.From the moment the two giant uncles took their stance to the moment they unleashed that powerful blow, he had seen every single instant clearly.That intense power, imbued with personal will, had coursed through their weapons.The attack that followed was actually able to shatter such a massive monster; what exactly was this?Luffy, who was nearby, saw Alex still in shock and hurriedly shook him."Hey, Alex, what's wrong with you?""No... it's nothing..."He thought it was just a unique ability of the Giant Race, not knowing that this power existed in everyone in this world—a power known as—Haki!In his shock, Alex deactivated his Byakugan. He felt his vision blurring and his body growing weak, thinking something had gone wrong with his physical state.So, he immediately sat on the deck and entered Sage Mode.The next second, those familiar "blueberries" and the patterns resembling a Devil Fruit appeared on his body.Not long after leaving Small Garden.Usopp shouted from the bow: "Everyone! One day, I will—go to Elbaf! To the village of warriors!"Hearing this, Luffy happily hugged him."Alright! Usopp! You must go! When that time comes, we'll go find the giants' homeland!"A wave of weakness suddenly washed over Nami. She leaned against the mast, watching the lively Usopp and Luffy in the distance, feeling a bit envious of them."They have so much energy!"At the same time, she looked over at Alex, who had turned into a "blueberry," and sighed: "Alex is the same, he really has so much vitality; he started training again so quickly."As she spoke, she handed the permanent log poseshe was holding to Vivi, clutching her head with one hand while telling her:"Oh my, after experiencing what just happened, I suddenly feel so tired... Vivi, could you keep an eye on the log pose for me?"Vivi looked at the log pose in her hand, her expression becoming a mix of excitement and anticipation.Nami, seeing her reaction, nodded happily: "Finally... we can return to Alabasta. Of course, I hope the voyage to Alabasta goes smoothly and that no more accidents happen..."Vivi looked at the log pose in her hand and nodded."Yes, I must go back..."At this point, she recalled what Igaram had said to her; everything regarding the king and the people rested on her shoulders.Only if she returned and explained the whole situation clearly would the citizens continue to believe in the king.Thinking of this, Vivi's expression became even more determined: "I must return alive... back to Alabasta!"Suddenly, Sanji arrived in front of the two of them with a plate of snacks: "Right, keep it up! Vivi! I'm here for you!"He said, handing the dessert to them: "Today's dessert is butter shortbread, would you like a piece? By the way, for drinks, there's black tea and coffee..."Usopp and Luffy had run over at some point and were drooling over the plate of snacks.This scene disgusted Sanji. He shooed them away, pointing toward the kitchen: "Your portions are in the kitchen."Hearing this, the two ran into the kitchen like monkeys.Alex was still training on the deck, and Sanji did not disturb him.However, things were not going well inside Alex's body. For some unknown reason, his cells were rapidly aging.At this rate, he would turn into an old man in a week.If not for the support of Sage Mode, he would probably have already reached middle age by now.At the stern of the ship, Zoro was swinging his fitness equipment, counting the reps."...2603...2604..."Each swing was so earnest, so precise.At this moment, Zoro was thinking about the battle earlier. Although he hadn't taken action, he would forever engrave that sense of humiliation in his heart."Damn it, I should have just butchered that guy... then the others wouldn't have had to go through so much trouble! And cutting off his legs, that was too naive! If it weren't for Alex..."As he said this, his swinging speed increased significantly, and one could see the afterimages of the fitness equipment."I need to become stronger... at least strong enough to cut through iron!"On the other side, at the port of the Kingdom of Alabasta, a ship was docked."Mr. 2 Bon Kurei, the Swan Ship is ready."Hearing his subordinates' voices, a somewhat feminine voice replied."I kno—w, I kno—w! You're so noisy, how annoying! Why do I have to do this? You guys should be able to handle taking out Mr.3 yourselves!"The subordinate on the ship was terrified upon hearing this: "Don't... don't joke! Even all of us combined are no match for him.""Besides, this is the Boss's order!"Hearing this, Mr. 2 couldn't help but snort: "Hmph, troublesome little zeros!"Then the ship left the port to pursue and kill Mr.3. It seemed this was an officer of Baroque Works.Back on the going merry, for some unknown reason, Nami had collapsed on the ground from exhaustion.She looked at Vivi weakly: "I'm sorry, Vivi, I want to go back to my room...""It's okay, Nami. I'll keep an eye on the course. You go back to your room and get some good rest."As she spoke, Vivi stepped forward to help her up. The moment her hand touched Nami, she knew something was wrong.Because Nami's body temperature was extremely high, and she was sweating profusely."Everyone, come quick! This is terrible!"Everyone stopped what they were doing and gathered around to look, except for Alex, who was still maintaining Sage Mode.He dared not move now, fearing that any impact would cause him to exit his current state and then begin aging rapidly.Zoro wiped the sweat from his body and asked what had happened.Luffy also ate his last cookie and arrived: "What's wrong?""Nami's temperature is so high!" After saying this, Vivi and the others helped Nami back to her room to rest.Looking at the person lying on the bed, Sanji bit his handkerchief, striking a delicate feminine pose."Will Nami die? Will she, Vivi!"Vivi looked at Nami lying on the bed, not knowing what to do, and simply shared what she knew."Nami's condition might... be due to the climate... After all, crew members sailing on the Grand Lineare bound to encounter it. This is the first hurdle; this kind of illness is usually caused by abnormal climate!Whether it's any famous pirate on the sea or those robust pirates, one often hears about them suddenly dying after contracting this illness.Although the symptoms aren't severe, if one is not careful, it's still possible to lose one's life.And what about Alex? Doesn't he know medicine? Call him over!"Hearing this, Sanji was the first to run out of the room and onto the deck.He saw Alex still sitting there quietly and stepped forward to shake him."Hey! Alex, wake up! Nami is having problems! Hey..."Zoro, who was checking the course, called out to Sanji."Stop calling him... Ever since we left the island, Alex has been like this. It seems he has been infected by a virus..."Before Zoro could finish, Alex's round body began to slim down.In the midst of a life-and-death crisis, Alex had actually further mastered the form of Sage Mode, changing from his obese state to a slim state.Through further control, he began to be able to perform simple actions."Stop shaking me, Sanji, I'm awake."Hearing this, Sanji grabbed Alex and rushed toward the room."Quick! Alex is here, everyone make way..."Arriving in the room, Alex barely managed to activate his Byakugan to examine Nami's body."Hmm, hmm... Oh, so that's it..."After deactivating his Byakugan, he turned to tell everyone: "Sorry, I didn't see anything..."Hearing this, flames ignited on Sanji's body, and he questioned Alex."What are you saying!"Vivi realized that while Alex said he couldn't see anything, he actually knew the cause, so she hurriedly stepped forward to stop him."Sanji, Alex probably hasn't seen this kind of illness before, so he doesn't know what it is, right Alex?"Alex nodded, indicating agreement: "Vivi is right. Everyone come here, look at her arm."Alex took Nami's arm out from under the blanket, and there was a small red spot on it."The cause is right here. This might be an illness caused by the bite of some kind of poisonous insect. After all, Small Garden is from an era of prehistoric life. Some insects that haven't gone extinct might still live there, so some diseases that haven't gone extinct also live within them.That's why I made those clothes using leaves to ensure everyone's safety..."At this point, Sanji looked at Alex."Don't look at me like that. The leaves were specially treated; I specifically smoked them to prevent any insect eggs or bugs from existing on them. Furthermore, if it were really going to bite, it should be on the skin or near the stomach, not the arm."Hearing this, Sanji nodded and became nervous again.Vivi, who was nearby, asked Alex: "Then, Alex, can you find a way to treat Nami?""I'm powerless too, because I've been infected too!"Then everyone looked at Alex, because he showed no symptoms of the illness.
Chapter 124: The Pair of Patients"Hey! Alex, are you feeling unwell somewhere?""Then why didn't you say anything!""Damn it, since you're sick, get back to your room!""So you're sick? I thought you'd successfully lost weight."Hearing Alex say that he had also been affected, everyone began to worry about his safety.Of course, Luffy's concern was different from the others."Alright everyone, my situation isn't that serious. After all, the bug that bit me is different from the one that bit Nami.My symptoms are accelerated cell aging, while Nami's condition is likely due to her immune system fighting off the bacteria.I can still hold on for now by relying on Sage Mode.All I can do right now is make some ice for her to make her more comfortable.Besides, even for someone like me who has recovered, I am helpless against this kind of disease..."After making the ice, Alex swayed a few times. Others wanted to step forward to support him, but Alex refused their kindness and chose to return to his room to rest.As soon as he lay on the bed, Alex also started running a high fever. Although it was accelerated cell aging, it was ultimately a virus, and since it was a virus, it could be killed by white blood cells.On the other side, with Nami, Luffy watched Alexleave and then looked at Nami lying on the bed.He asked Sanji, who was nearby: "Hey~ Sanji, if they just eat some meat, will they get better!"In Luffy's mind, being sick just meant his body felt uncomfortable, and his body feeling uncomfortable was caused by not having good food, so eating something delicious would help him recover.Sanji didn't have the energy to respond to Luffy's words.Finally, he said: "Um... I plan to make some simple meals for the patients.However, this will at most only help regulate their bodies; it won't be enough to cure the disease.And during the voyage, I always put a hundred times more effort into Nami and Vivi's meals.I use fresh meat and vegetables, and ensure special nutritional balance. Thanks to Alex, the ingredients haven't spoiled, otherwise I would have fed you guys the slightly spoiled food..."Hearing this, Usopp couldn't help but vent his dissatisfaction at Sanji.Luffy, however, indicated that as long as they had food, it was fine."Regardless, I am the cook on this ship.General nutritional balance is not a problem.However, food for the sick is a different situation.What food to eat for what sickness, and other such circumstances—I am helpless with those.""What's the big deal, Sanji, you don't have to be so troublesome. Can't you just let them both eat all this stuff?"Sanji replied to Luffy's question that it wouldn't work: "Luffy, patients don't have that much strength, and they can't eat that much food."Vivi took out a thermometer to measure the temperature. Even with the ice, it had reached thirty-nine degrees.Seeing this, everyone didn't realize how dangerous this was."Vivi, Alabasta should have many doctors, right? Can we go there for treatment?""I don't know. But we won't get there in a week. Also, this is only this low because of Alex's ice. If we remove the ice, Nami's body temperature will only get higher, and if it continues like this..."Vivi stopped there and didn't say anything more; after all, saying more wouldn't be auspicious."What? Is getting this sickness so painful?"To Luffy's question, Usopp and Sanji both expressed:"I don't know, I've never had this kind of sickness.""It's certain, after all, this sickness is caused by poisonous bugs, and these bugs only exist on Small Garden. Also, this method isn't a good one.But ice always melts, and I'm afraid Nami's fever will just get higher and higher.If this continues, Nami might lose her life...""Ahhhhhhh!"Hearing Vivi's words, the three people present all showed panicked expressions."Will Nami die?""▽ ▽ □ ◎ ♡ ☆... (Nami, don't die...)""Waaaaahhh—"Luffy, Sanji, and Usopp were in a panic, and even Karoo was calling out from the side.Seeing them making such a racket, Vivi couldn't take it anymore: "All of you, be quiet!""I got it, but Vivi, we must go find a doctor and save Nami!""I know, Luffy, just be quiet for a moment and don't disturb the patient.""It's not working..."Just as they were arguing, a weak voice came from the bed.Everyone looked over and saw Nami sitting up on the bed, the ice on her head scattering onto the bed."Oh—Nami is better!"Luffy cheered, because in his understanding, being able to sit up from the bed meant she had returned to normal.Usopp quickly stopped him: "Idiot, how could she be better!"However, Nami didn't pay much attention to the three of them, but instead looked at her desk."In my desk drawer... there's a newspaper..."When Vivi heard this, she immediately went to check and was shocked by the content of the newspaper."How could this happen?""What's wrong?""Is it about Alabasta? Vivi..."Luffy and Sanji heard Vivi's exclamation and immediately asked.Vivi didn't answer their questions, but the news in the newspaper made her collapse and sit down."How could this be! 300,000 soldiers from the Royal Army have defected to the Rebel Army...The original situation was 600,000 troops for the Royal Army and 400,000 for the Rebel Army, but now the situation has completely reversed!"Usopp was stunned on the spot. He couldn't believe his ears. 300,000 people—that was a full 300,000 people, not just 300,000 senbei!They just defected like that!Nami, on the side, forced herself to tell Vivi some things."It seems the riot in Alabasta has already begun...And this is a newspaper from three days ago. Sorry I couldn't let you know sooner.But even if you knew, it wouldn't change the ship's speed. I didn't want you to worry, so I kept it hidden."After saying this, she coughed again, then looked at Luffy."You know how serious the situation is now, right! Luffy!""It seems the situation is very serious!""That's right! Fortunately, you understand my intentions."As Nami said this, she was about to leave the bed, but then she saw the ice beside her and the large block of ice standing at the head of the bed.Usopp saw Nami wanting to get up and immediately stopped her."Nami, your body needs to see a doctor. After all, Alex checked and said it was caused by an unknown virus...""It's okay... I know my own body. This thermometer might be broken.My temperature can't be thirty-nine degrees. Besides, with these ice blocks, I'm much better..."Saying this, Nami shakily got up from the bed, picked up some crushed ice from her side, and placed it on her forehead."I'll just have Alex treat me later...Anyway, now we must sail according to the planned schedule. Keep heading straight to Alabasta."After saying this, Nami let out a deep breath and turned to look at everyone in the room."I've made everyone worry, thank you very much."Seeing Nami like this, Luffy felt relieved: "Oh... so you're already better.""Idiot! She's just forcing herself!"Nami left the room and walked outside.Just as everyone was focused on Nami, Vivi had fallen into deep fear, after all, the situation in her country had reached a critical point.If she didn't return soon, an unprecedented great war would break out there.Thinking of this, Vivi hugged the newspaper and cried bitterly."It's not enough to just return safely, I must return as soon as possible.If I don't make it in time, one million citizens will kill each other!""There are a million people!""The responsibility you carry is really heavy! Vivi."Luffy and Sanji didn't know how to comfort her.Outside the room, Nami saw Zoro watching the ship."Why are you the one watching! Where is Alex?""What's wrong? The ship is going straight! As for Alex, he went back to his room to sleep."Hearing him dare to ask what's wrong, Namiglanced at the Eternal Pose, and a surge of anger welled up."What's wrong, you dare to ask! The ship has already deviated from the course at a right angle. You need to look at the Eternal Pose!""No need for such trouble! Just look at that biggest cloud!""Clouds move, and their shapes change!Ah... it's no good, my head hurts so much! Just leave it to me! You go lie down!"Nami covered her head with one hand while coming to the deck to recheck the course.Seeing Nami in this state, Zoro also became worried."It's precisely because I can't leave it to you that I came here..."Nami felt the changes in the air; she suddenly discovered that the air had changed."The air... it tastes different...""The air? It doesn't taste like anything! The weather is clear."Regarding Nami's words, Zoro was a bit confused; what on earth was she talking about? How could the air have a taste?"Alright, alright, just go call everyone!"Nami didn't explain to him, but instead told him to call everyone out."Hey, come out quickly, there's work! South, turn the rudder fully!"Hearing her voice, everyone quickly came out of Nami's room.Sanji was a bit dissatisfied that Zoro was giving orders as soon as he came out."Why is it you? I won't listen to your orders!""Cut the crap! Hurry up! Turn the sails, catch the wind on the port side!"Hearing Nami's order, Sanji scurried over to the sails to make adjustments.But after walking only a few steps, Sanji saw that the sea was calm and nothing was happening."What's going on? Nami, the sea is very calm, the weather is very good!""There's wind... straight ahead, a strong wind is blowing—it seems to be..."Before Nami could finish, Luffy walked up and placed his hand on her forehead. In less than a second, Luffy's hand was burned red and swollen."So hot! So hot! Let's stop the ship and go find a doctor!""Stop nagging! My body temperature is usually like this, don't be silly, go pull the ropes!"Seeing Luffy's state, Sanji also knew that Nami's body was about to give out."Nami. I know you're doing this for Vivi, but don't push yourself so hard.""Didn't I say I'm fine!"Usopp on the side was also worried about Nami's body, but before he could say a few words, Namisnapped back at him."You too, stop nagging, hurry up and sail the ship
Chapter 125: Vivi's SpiritAlthough she appreciated everyone's concern for her, now was not the time to be laid back.Suddenly, Nami felt that the wind on the sea was a bit off."Good grief... What is going on? This storm, it seems different from the usual ones!"Meanwhile, sitting in the room, Vivi looked at the impending war in the newspaper and began to ponder.She had to return to Alabasta as quickly as possible to stop this battle.But when she thought of Nami's condition, she knew that she couldn't delay any longer, however...Thinking of this, she made a decision and walked out of the room.Nami watched as Vivi came out of the room."Is there something you want to say to everyone?""Everyone, you've already let me board your ship, so I really have no face to make any rigid demands. But at this moment, my country has fallen into an unprecedented crisis. I must go back as soon as possible; I cannot hesitate for a single moment! So... right now, this ship must proceed at its fastest speed... towards Alabasta!"Hearing this, everyone stood on the deck and looked at Vivi. Usopp and Luffy looked displeased, and even Sanji kept his head down, no longer looking at Vivi.Only Nami forced herself to nod and said: "Of course! Isn't that what we agreed on?""Since everyone agrees, then let's immediately go find an island with a doctor. Cure Nami's illness as soon as possible... and then set off for Alabasta! That is the fastest speed for this ship, isn't it?"Hearing this, the light returned to everyone's previously dejected eyes."That's right, there is no speed faster than that!" Luffy affirmed Vivi's statement."Is this okay? As a princess, you should be more worried about the safety of those one million citizens, right?"To Usopp's words, Vivi agreed that he was right. "Yes, that's why I need to get Nami's illness cured quickly, so that we can return as fast as possible!""Well said, Vivi! I'm impressed by you!" "...What spirit!" Sanji and Zoro both expressed their admiration for Vivi."I'm sorry, Vivi, for you sacrificing yourself for me..." Before Nami could finish, Vivi quickly comforted her. "Stop pushing yourself, Nami!""Oh! Not good, Vivi... I feel... a bit... I don't think I can hold on." Before Nami could say anything more, she collapsed onto the deck.Suddenly, Luffy pointed behind them in a panic. "Oh, oh! Look at that!"Everyone looked in the direction Luffy was pointing, and then they saw a terrifying sight.It turned out that a massive tornado had appeared on the route the going merry was previously on, and that tornado swept across the area as if it were going to tear the entire ocean apart."That... that's a tornado!" "It's huge!" Everyone couldn't help but exclaim as they looked at the tornado, except for Sanji, who saw Nami collapsed on the ground and quickly went over to help her up and encourage her to stay strong."Wait... wait a minute, the direction it's moving..." It seemed Vivi had discovered the trajectory of the tornado."The direction it's moving is the exact direction our ship was heading! If we had kept going straight just now, we would have crashed right into it!""That was close! We really almost hit it!" Luffy said while hugging the mast, looking out in awe. The others were also impressed by Nami's prediction.Only Vivi, only she knew how powerful this ability to sense the formation of extreme weather was. After all, on the Grand Line, tornadoes that suddenly appear have no warning signs, yet Namiwas actually able to sense and predict it.Vivi looked at Nami in her arms; she felt as if the other girl could predict changes in the weather with her own body.Luffy lay on the mast and gave orders. "Alright! Everyone, let's get moving! Continue heading south! We're going to find a doctor!" Hearing this, everyone cheered with their arms raised.The going merry deviated from the guidance of the Log Pose and began its journey to find a doctor.When night fell, Luffy looked at Zhang ye. "Zhang ye! What's wrong with you! Why have you aged so much?" The others looked over then and discovered that Zhang ye's skin had already developed some wrinkles."Zhang ye, why are you like this! Hurry up and get up and talk!" "Luffy, stop it, you can't move Zhang ye in his current state."At this moment, Zhang ye had consumed a large amount of Natural Energy to delay the illness within his body. This resulted in the rate of Natural Energyconsumption far exceeding his expectations, and the Natural Energy stored in his gloves was nearly exhausted. Therefore, his skin began to wrinkle, looking as if he were aging."Sanji, can Zhang ye still recover if he eats meat now?" "I don't know, this situation is completely different from Nami's, damn it..." They didn't know what to do about Zhang ye's condition and could only place some food by his bedside to help him recover his strength.Time passed to the next day. Sanji was taking care of Zhang ye, as Usopp and Luffy didn't have the patience for it, and Zoro was even more of a careless person.At this moment, snowflakes were drifting all over the Grand Line; it seemed they had entered the vicinity of an island, and the climate had stabilized.Inside Nami's room, Vivi was changing the ice packs for her, praying that they would find a doctor soon.As for Zhang ye, although Sanji said he hated this job, he was still taking care of Zhang ye attentively.Luffy and Usopp came outside and looked up at Zoro on the crow's nest. "Hey! Zoro, have you seen a doctor?" "Idiot! Can you see a doctor on the sea?" Usopp retorted to Luffy's words.However, Zoro had indeed seen something strange. "Hey! Do you think anyone else besides Zhang ye can stand on the surface of the water?""You're saying someone is standing on the sea? Could that person also be a Ninja!" "Zoro, what are you spouting nonsense for!" Luffy and Usopp both expressed doubt at Zoro's words."Then tell me, what is that thing I saw?" "What thing?" "What is it?"Luffy and Usopp ran to the bow to look, and soon they saw a figure standing on the surface of the sea. Moreover, unlike Zhang ye's way of standing that drifted with the waves, this person was standing there steadily.This person's clothes looked like two pieces of cloth sewn together. One side was dark green, the other was light blue; he wore a pair of white gloves and had a bow and arrow strapped to his back, just standing there stiffly on the surface of the sea.Seeing this, Luffy and Usopp couldn't quite believe it, and both rubbed their eyes to make sure they weren't seeing things. After rubbing their eyes, they saw that the person was still standing on the sea.At this moment, the four of them stared at each other, not knowing what to say. "Hi! It's really cold today!" The person on the other side spoke first to greet them.Luffy and Usopp looked at each other, not knowing what to do, so they just nodded. "Yeah, it's really cold today!" "Ah! Ah ah! It's cold, so cold! It is extremely cold today!"The person on the other side, upon hearing Luffyand Usopp's words, was a bit confused: "Is it?" At this moment, the scene fell into an eerie silence once again. No one spoke, they just looked at each other; in the heavy snow, time seemed to stand still.Suddenly, the person on the sea began to rise rapidly. Before long, a semi-circular object surfaced, and at the very top was a huge mast and sail. This thing was built entirely of wood and iron plating, with strange patterns at the bottom. However, as it rose rapidly, it created powerful waves, and the going merry swayed unsteadily under this surge."What is this thing? A watermelon?" "Good heavens!" Luffy marveled at what this could possibly be, while Usopp was trying to steady himself.However, compared to the two of them, Nami and Zhang ye had it worse. On Nami's side, because of the ice packs blocking her, the shaking wasn't too severe. But on Zhang ye's side, due to Sanji's momentary negligence, Zhang ye actually went flying. Fortunately, he was quick-eyed and nimble-handed, catching Zhang ye steadily. After placing Zhang ye back on the bed, Sanji took a deep drag of his cigarette. "Bastards! What on earth are those guys doing!"At this moment, the watermelon-like object on the sea was slowly opening up. Zoro, standing on the crow's nest, saw this and voiced his thought. "Hey! Could that thing be a ship?"As if responding to Zoro, a voice rang out, and this huge object began to transform. "Unfurl sails!" As the words fell, the thing that looked like a sail began to open, then the parts that had been opened began to retract, and finally, a hippo-like bow surfaced. Only then was the ship's transformation complete."Ah ha ha ha ha! Did I scare you? This is the large diving surprise attack sailing ship, the Tin Tyrant!" A pirate flag fluttered on this Tin Tyrant. The pirate flag was a skull logo wearing a crown with an unusually large chin."We're doomed! This... this... is a pirate ship..." "It's huge!" "Hey! Of all the critical moments to appear..." Seeing this, the two looked grim, only Luffy was still in the mood to compliment the size of the other ship.The next second, the pirate underlings from the opposite ship jumped down, and they crowded onto the deck of the going merry with weapons in hand. Some of these people pointed guns at Luffy and Usopp, while others lined up to welcome their Captain.Hearing the noise, Sanji glanced at Zhang ye on the bed. Zhang ye also sensed that someone had boarded the ship, opened his eyes, and nodded at Sanji. "Sanji... go take a look, I... will be fine..." After saying that, he fell back asleep.Sanji walked out of the room, lit a cigarette, and went onto the deck. "Hey, Luffy, what's going on?" "We've been attacked, it's that ship!"When Sanji walked out, two underlings dressed in black pointed their guns at him. "Phew... that's fine, it's about what I expected. You can tell at a glance..." "Hey! We're in a hurry!" Luffy impatiently told the people pointing guns at him that they were in a hurry. However, they remained unmoved."Oh, oh, oh... just four people?" "Are there only four of you on the ship?" At this moment, a voice came, accompanied by the sound of chewing. A fat man wearing a hippo-themed outfit, looking like a hippo, walked over. He held a small knife in his hand with several pieces of meat skewered on it. It seemed the chewing sound was coming from him.