Chapter 466: Memories (Part 18) — Sanji & Pudding!Late at night,The luxury guest room on the top floor of Totto Land's Whole Cake Chateau!!!Sanji sat cross-legged on the wool carpet, a cigarette dangling from his mouth, his brows knitted into a tight knot."This damn place doesn't even have a normal ashtray. Everything smells like cloying candy; it's really nauseating."Sanji exhaled smoke rings irritably while ranting wildly in his head.His mood right now could be described as absolutely terrible."That idiot Luffy, who has nothing but meat on his mind, has probably reached Wano Country by now, right?"Sanji vigorously ruffled his messy blond hair."And that hopeless directionally-challenged Mosshead... if he were here, he'd probably tear down Big Mom's castle to use as firewood."Although he had put on a show of complete submission in front of Big Mom during the day, he knew in his heart that he couldn't just sit and wait for death.Tomorrow is the Tea Party; he must come up with a foolproof plan.Not only did he have to rescue his companions safely, but he also had to carve a bloody path out of this dragon's den.Just as Sanji was biting his cigarette butt, his mind racing."Click—!!"Sanji's fingers holding the cigarette paused as his Observation Haki instantly picked up the presence of an approaching person.He immediately put on his usual trademark lovestruck face and turned around."Oh my, which beautiful night elf is..."Sanji's words were cut short, stuck in his throat.Standing at the door was Pudding.The young girl wasn't wearing the elaborate and magnificent princess dress from the daytime; instead, she had changed into a thin, semi-transparent lace nightgown.By the dim light of the corridor, her graceful figure was faintly visible.What surprised Sanji even more was,She wasn't even wearing shoes. Her small, fair, and tender feet stepped directly onto the cold marble floor, her toes curling slightly from nervousness.Normally, seeing his fiancée enter his room dressed like this in the middle of the night,Sanji would likely have hearts in his eyes by now, transforming into a screaming human tornado flying around the ceiling.But at this moment, Sanji didn't have the slightest comedic reaction.Because he saw Pudding's face clearly.The young girl's face no longer held the flawless, even somewhat affected, sweet smile from earlier that day.Her face was as pale as paper, and in her beautiful large eyes, bloodshot streaks were clearly visible, revealing a deep, thick sorrow and low self-esteem.She was like a stray cat drenched in a rainstorm, standing there pitifully.Sanji quickly stood up, strode to the bedside, pulled off a soft blanket,And walked up to Pudding, draping it directly over her thin shoulders."The floor is very cold, Pudding-chan~""Even in a place like Totto Land that's full of sweets, the middle of the night can still freeze a girl."Sanji's voice was very low, carrying an irresistible tenderness.Pudding's body jolted. She looked up, staring blankly at the man before her.She had originally prepared herself to be scolded harshly by Sanji or treated with cold indifference.After all, during the day, she was still helping Mama act and was plotting against him.But this idiot's first reaction was actually worrying she might catch a cold?"You... you don't blame me?"Tears had already begun to well up in Pudding's eyes."I lied to you. From beginning to end, I was just playing along with Mama..."Sanji sighed softly, naturally reaching out to pull Pudding into the room and closing the door behind him.He led her to the carpet in front of the floor-to-ceiling window to sit down."Pudding-chan, those words really break a gentleman's heart."Sanji sat cross-legged opposite her, relit a cigarette, and a roguish, handsome smile curled on his lips."To be deceived by such a beautiful lady is an honor that men all over the world would die for.""Besides, your acting during the day was actually quite clumsy; it could only fool a simple little guy like Chopper."Hearing this completely irrational forgiveness, Pudding was stunned.Her heart, which had been tightly gripped by fear and self-reproach, suddenly felt as if it were being smoothed over by a pair of warm, large hands."You really are a hopeless idiot..."Pudding tightly gripped the blanket around her, tears falling pitter-patter."Why are you being so gentle?""Do you have any idea? In Totto Land, in this hellhole where even family bonds are traded as bargaining chips, kindness can get you killed!!!"Sanji took a deep drag of his cigarette, his gaze drifting to the starry night sky outside the window."If I had to be cold even to my own future wife,""...then the species known as men might as well go extinct from this world sooner rather than later."Pudding looked up sharply, biting her lip hard as if engaged in some intense internal struggle.She didn't come here today to hear these sweet words.She had seen with her own eyes the back of Sanjias he was willing to give up everything for his companions; that sight had completely shattered the mask she had worn for so long.She didn't want to lie to him anymore. She wanted to tear open her truest, ugliest side and lay it out, bloody, before this man.She wanted him to know that his kindness was directed at the wrong person."Don't call me your wife! I'm not worthy!"Pudding suddenly lost control of her emotions and shouted out, tears gushing like a burst dam.Her hands trembling, she suddenly grabbed the thick layer of bangs on her forehead."Did you think I was some cute princess?""Did you think I was a normal girl?""You're wrong! You're completely wrong!!!"Pudding cried and shouted as she suddenly flipped her bangs up."Look clearly! This is the real me!""A—monster—that even my own biological mother finds disgusting!"The moment her bangs were lifted, a third eye, positioned horizontally right in the middle of her forehead, was exposed to the air without reservation.It was an eerie eye, completely different from her original two.It stared coldly ahead, ruining the girl's otherwise flawless face and giving her entire being a spine-chilling sense of otherness.Pudding tightly closed her original two eyes below, her whole body shaking uncontrollably.She was ready for Sanji's reaction.Since she was a child, whenever anyone saw this eye, they would scream in terror, call her a disgusting monster, and throw stones at her.Even the Four Emperors Big Mom, who gave birth to her, would roar with a face full of disdain upon seeing this eye:"How disgusting. Put your bangs back down immediately; just looking at it makes me lose my appetite!"So she learned to disguise herself, learned to use thick hair to cover this humiliating eye, and learned to become cold-blooded and cruel like everyone else.She waited for Sanji's fear, waited for his look of disgust, and even waited for the sight of him turning and running away.One second, two seconds, three seconds...The room was surprisingly quiet, with only the sound of Sanji's steady breathing.Pudding's exposed third eye was contracting uneasily due to her extreme nervousness.Suddenly, she felt a faint scent of tobacco approaching her.Immediately after, a pair of large hands with warm, rough calluses gently cupped her tear-stained cheeks.Pudding opened her eyes in terror, only to meet a pair of eyes just inches away.Sanji didn't pull away, nor was there any trace of disgust.Not only that, but this Perverted Cook, who usually couldn't move his feet whenever he saw a beautiful woman, had a gaze that was surprisingly clear and filled with wonder.He didn't see Pudding as a monster."What's there to be surprised about..."Sanji leaned in slightly, his voice so gentle it was as if he were afraid of disturbing some rare treasure."Three eyes? Does that mean you can capture three different angles of my handsomeness at the same time?""This is simply a miracle bestowed by the gods."Pudding was completely dumbfounded.She even forgot to cry, and even the third eye on her forehead was wide and round.What... what crazy things was he saying?A miracle?He actually called this eye, despised by everyone, a miracle?Sanji cupped her face, gently wiping away the tears from the corners of her eyes.Then, he lowered his head slightly and placed an incredibly devout kiss on that third eye, which was trembling slightly from shock."What a beautiful eye."Sanji looked up at Pudding, a brilliant smile appearing on his face."It's as beautiful as the most dazzling stars in the universe, Pudding-chan.""Boom—"Pudding felt as if a volcano had instantly erupted in her mind.She had never imagined that in this world, someone would actually look at her like this and, instead of being repulsed, would praise her beauty.Moreover, that gaze held not a shred of falsehood; it was filled with overflowing sincerity."Wuu... Waaaaah!!!"All of Pudding's psychological defenses collapsed completely at this moment.She no longer cared about any princess-like reserve, nor did she care about Big Mom's mission.She lunged into Sanji's broad, sturdy chest, her hands tightly gripping the back of his suit, and wailed like a little girl who had suffered endless grievances and finally found her way home.Tears instantly soaked the shirt on Sanji's chest.Sanji froze for a moment, his hands hovering in mid-air.Feeling the petite body trembling violently in his arms, a helpless, bitter smile rarely appeared on his handsome face."Really now, with a girl crying so sadly, as a chef, I should be serving a plate of dessert right about now."He muttered to himself, then gently lowered his hands and pulled Pudding into a tight embrace.His hand gently patted her thin back, as if soothing a kitten that had finally let down all its defenses.Outside the window, the night sky of Totto Landremained a bottomless black.But in this castle filled with calculation and conspiracy,There were two hearts that, at this moment, cast aside all defenses and drew completely close together.
Chapter 467: Memories (Part 19) — Soul Out of Body!Cold, damp, and filled with the strange, musty smell of old, moldy books.In Mont-dOr's Book World, it was impossible to distinguish day from night."Let me go! You despicable, shameless bastards!!!"Nami gritted her teeth, her wrists straining desperately against her restraints.However, these paper chains created by a Devil Fruit power were sinister; the more she struggled, the tighter they constricted.Due to the prolonged, violent exertion, Nami was already drenched in sweat.Her already revealing orange camisole was soaked, clinging to her flat abdomen and outlining her graceful figure, making her look somewhat disheveled."Huff... huff..."Nami stopped, panting heavily, her face full of frustration.Beside her, Chopper slumped dejectedly within his chains."It's no use, Nami. Even my Arm Strength Reinforcement can't break these chains!!!"...Tap-tap-tap.Outside the Book World, a sudden set of crisp footsteps echoed.It was the Chess Soldiers guarding the book, changing shifts for their patrol.Because the Book World had a strange connection to the outside, the voices of people outside drifted into the cell without any hindrance."Hey, have you heard? The security level for tomorrow's Tea Party has been raised to the maximum.""Lord Katakuri personally gave the order; all armed forces are on standby," said a soldier with a slightly shrill voice."Hah, Lord Katakuri is just being too cautious."Another soldier laughed dismissively."For tomorrow's show, we won't even need to lift a finger."Nami, who had been struggling, instantly froze. She held her breath and strained her ears to listen to the commotion outside.Chopper and Brook also sensed the shift in atmosphere and immediately went quiet.The idle chatter outside continued..."That's true! Hahahaha, I can't wait to see the despair on the faces of those arrogant Vinsmokefools tomorrow!!!""Marriage? Alliance? Those brainless science idiots actually believed it! How could Mama allow another power in the New World to stand on equal footing with her? From the very beginning, Mamaonly had her eyes on Germa 66's clone technology!!!""Then what about that Sanji kid?"The shrill-voiced soldier lowered his tone."He is a Vinsmoke after all. What will happen to him at the wedding tomorrow?""Him? Hehehe..."The soldier with the gruff voice let out an arrogant, cold laugh."He's an excellent combatant; Mama naturally has other plans for him. Once tomorrow passes, he'll realize he can never hope to escape Totto Landalive for the rest of his life!!!"The footsteps of the soldiers outside gradually faded away...In truth, Charlotte Linlin's plan was very shrewd.She didn't intend to kill Sanji, nor did she want a fight to the death with the Straw Hat Pirates.What she wanted was to bloodlessly seize control of the entire Vinsmoke family at the wedding and completely swallow their technology.Big Mom knew very well that Sanji's relationship with his cold-blooded family was terrible. This move would not only strengthen Totto Land but also indirectly help Sanji resolve the family shackles that had plagued him for years.It would force him to willingly wear the heavy shackles named 'family' and become a completely obedient son-in-law.The three people in the cell broke into a cold sweat upon hearing these fragments, even if they didn't know the full details of Big Mom's conspiracy.Big Mom never intended for a sincere marriage alliance; this was a complete and utter scam!!!Tomorrow, Germa would be wiped out in one fell swoop!!!"Sanji, you big idiot!!!"Nami's large eyes were filled with the fire of rage."He thinks he's saving us, but he's about to be played by that old hag himself!!!"Nami trembled with anger; she knew Sanji too well.That man, who valued responsibility above all else—if he were truly controlled by Big Mom under these circumstances, he would definitely swallow all the bitterness himself just to avoid involving the Straw Hat Pirates!"Let me out!!! You bastards!!!"Nami began to struggle frantically again, the paper chains creaking and groaning."We absolutely cannot let that idiot attend tomorrow's Tea Party!!!"Chopper was also so anxious that tears welled up in his eyes o(╥﹏╥)o:"What do we do! We're tied up here, we can't notify Sanji at all!!!""Yohohoho, Miss Nami, and Mr. Chopper, please calm down."At this desperate moment, Brook's extremely relaxed, even slightly cheerful voice suddenly rang out.Nami was too angry for words and turned to glare at him fiercely."You bag of old bones! What time do you think it is? Sanji is about to be doomed, and you can still laugh?!?!""Miss Nami, please lower your anger. I am not joking about Mr. Sanji's safety."Brook dropped his comical demeanor, his tone becoming exceptionally serious."We are in a cell, and brute force certainly won't work. However, although I am left with only a bag of bones, this has become my greatest advantage.""Advantage? What advantage? Can you gnaw through the chains?" Chopper asked, looking bewildered."Yohohoho, that would be far too hard on my teeth."Two clusters of ghostly green flames suddenly flickered within Brook's hollow eye sockets.As soon as he finished speaking, a bone-chilling aura instantly swept through the entire cell!!The surrounding temperature seemed to drop several degrees in an instant.Under the incredulous gazes of Nami and Chopper, the two green flames surged violently.Then, a soul body emitting an eerie glow actually floated directly out of Brook's skeletal shell!!"The power of the Revive-Revive Fruit isn't just about bringing me back to life."Brook's soul body circled in mid-air.Right now, he was purely soul energy, looking like a glowing green humanoid ghost.His current state had completely transcended the constraints of physical laws."This book cage may be sturdy—even the Giant Race couldn't break it with brute force—but it is, after all, a physical existence."Brook's soul body bowed slightly to Nami, performing a gentlemanly hat-tip."And I am now a soul without a physical form. To a soul, any physical walls or chains are just a layer of air that can be passed through at will.""Brook... his soul left his body?!?!"Chopper's eyes widened, and he clutched his head with both hooves, so scared his antlers almost flew off."A ghost!!!""Calm down, Chopper! This is our only chance to strike back!!!"Nami's eyes instantly lit up as she looked at Brook's soul."Brook, do you mean to...""Yohohoho, exactly."Brook's soul let out a penetrating chuckle."Please wait a moment; I'll go get reinforcements from outside!!!"With that, the green soul dove straight toward the massive book page in front of them.Whoosh!Brook's soul passed through Mont-dOr's demon book without any resistance and completely vanished from the cell.In the cell, only Chopper, bound by chains, and a skeletal frame with its head tilted remained."He... he really flew out!!!" Chopper was dumbfounded.Nami watched the direction where Brook had disappeared, her tensed nerves finally relaxing slightly.She bit her lip hard as the image of a boy wearing a straw hat, who always created miracles in desperate situations, appeared in her mind.In this world, she had a unique, almost blindly trusting feeling toward Luffy.As long as that guy was there, even the most hopeless situation could be overturned!!"Luffy, you meat-brained pig, have you reached Wano Country yet?!?!"Nami prayed silently in her heart."Hurry up and flip this island and Big Mom's conspiracy upside down!!!"...On the other side, in the long corridors of Whole Cake Chateau.A Teacup Homie carrying a tray was humming a little tune while on patrol.Suddenly, it felt a chill down its spine as a glowing green ghost head emerged without warning from the wall in front of it!!"Yohohoho! Good evening, could you tell me how to get to the Library?" Brook asked politely."Waaaaah! A ghost!!!"The Teacup Homie was so frightened it shattered into a pile of porcelain shards on the spot.Brook's soul body fully emerged from the wall and stretched lazily in mid-air."Alright, the rescue operation officially begins!!! Yohohoho!!!"
Chapter 469: Memories (20) — Jailbreak, the Reliable Man!The internal structure of Whole Cake Chateau was complex and intricate, like a massive maze.Brook's soul form, glowing with a faint green light, was passing through one thick wall after another without any physical hindrance."Oh my, although not being restricted by physics is convenient, this castle is ridiculously large.""I'm carrying the heavy responsibility of saving my companions right now; I must find that reliable man as soon as possible!!!"The "reliable man" Brook spoke of was, naturally, the Knight of the Sea—Jinbe, who had come with them to Cake Island.He closed his eyes, trying hard to sense the presence within the castle using Observation Haki.Soon, on a higher floor of the castle, he detected a steady, heavy, and powerful aura."Found him! This aura full of a sense of security is definitely Boss Jinbe!!!"Brook turned into a streak of green light, passing directly through several ceilings to arrive outside a super-luxurious VIP room, then poked half of his ghost head inside.The room was brightly lit.On a long table that could seat over a dozen people, the finest delicacies from Totto Land were laid out.From vintage, precious red wines to sea beast feasts made with rare ingredients, everything one could want was there.Even the floor was covered with soft, fluffy cloud carpets.This treatment was more exaggerated than that of a king of a nation.And the guest of this luxury suite—the Knight of the Sea, Jinbe—was currently sitting cross-legged by the long table.To put it bluntly, Charlotte Linlin had set her sights on Sanji and Jinbe.One had amazing potential and a Germabackground, while the other was a former member of the Seven Warlords of the Sea whose name shook the oceans.Big Mom's calculations were very clear:Use the marriage alliance and the favor of resolving family shackles to tie down Sanji;Simultaneously use the highest-standard treatment and the prosperity of Totto Land to recruit Jinbe.She wanted to dismantle the Straw Hat's combat power without shedding blood, bringing these two strong men completely under her command.However, facing this table of fine wine and food that would make any pirate drool, Jinbe hadn't even moved his chopsticks."Luffy is still in Wano Country right now; it's not good to trouble him..."Jinbe sighed heavily, his large hand clenching into a fist,"Even though I'm being treated as a VIP, this feeling of being under house arrest really makes it hard to eat or sleep!!!""Yo-ho-ho-ho! Boss Jinbe, your willpower is truly admirable!"A lighthearted voice suddenly echoed in the room.Jinbe snapped his head up, his muscles instantly tensing.He saw a translucent ghost glowing green slowly floating out of the wall, even tipping its hat to him very gentlemanly."Bro... Brook?!"Jinbe was stunned for a moment.Though he had long known this skeleton musician who was always shouting about wanting to see panties,seeing him appear in this pure soul form still made the well-traveled Knight of the Sea's eye twitch involuntarily."What's... the situation? Have you already been... by Big Mom's subordinates?" Jinbe asked, pale with shock."No, no, no, this is just a small application of my Revive-Revive Fruit. Now is not the time to explain that!"Brook set aside his usual silliness, his soul form quickly floating in front of Jinbe, his tone becoming more serious than ever before."Boss Jinbe, the situation is super critical! Miss Nami and Mr. Chopper are locked in Mont-d'Or's Book Prison!"Then, Brook poured it all out, telling Jinbe every word of Big Mom's malicious plan: how she intended to control Germa at the Tea Party, and how she planned to use that so-called 'favor' to mentally break Sanji and make him stay in Totto Land as a puppet.After a long silence,Jinbe looked at the table full of delicacies and suddenly let out a cold laugh, full of mockery."So that's how it is... Charlotte Linlin, are these your true methods?"Jinbe slowly stood up, his body instantly erupting with a suffocating, terrifying aura.The air around him even rippled with visible waves due to his violent emotional fluctuations."Breaking someone's bones and then expecting them to be grateful! I absolutely refuse to agree to such low-life methods that treat people like marionettes!!!"He turned his head, looked at Brook, and said with a firm tone,"Since I decided long ago to follow Luffy, then the companions of the Straw Hat crew are family I will protect with my life!""Brook, lead the way! We're going to rescue Namiand Chopper right now!""Ohhh! Boss Jinbe, your current majestic appearance is more intoxicating than the strongest rum! Yo-ho-ho-ho!"Brook did an excited flip in mid-air and immediately turned into a streak of green light to lead the way....Meanwhile, in the library of Whole Cake Chateau.The Chess soldiers guarding that giant Demon Book were yawning intermittently.Suddenly,"BOOM—!!"The heavy pure copper doors of the library, along with the thick walls on both sides, were actually blown to smithereens by an unreasonable force of violence!Amidst the dust filling the air, a tall blue figure walked in with steady steps."Who's there?!"The guards were pale with shock and immediately raised their weapons.Jinbe didn't even give them a direct look; his legs bent slightly, the muscles in his right arm bulged, and his large hand created a visible burst of violent water vapor in the air as he casually pushed forward.Fish-Man Karate—Five Thousand Tile True Punch!Bang! Bang! Bang! Bang!Invisible air shockwaves blasted out, instantly sending several Chess soldiers flying, slamming them hard into the walls where they passed out on the spot.Having dealt with the fodder, Jinbe locked his gaze on the large book in the center of the hall that emitted an eerie aura."Devil Fruit abilities, in the end, are still afraid of the power of the sea."Jinbe snorted coldly, his hands plunging into an indoor fountain pool next to the library.With a surge of strength in his arms, he actually pulled the water from the pool out as if it were a solid object!Fish-Man Jujutsu—Current Over-the-Shoulder Throw!A thick column of water was violently hurled by Jinbe, carrying immense force, and it smashed with pinpoint accuracy onto that giant Demon Book!Splash!!!A massive amount of water instantly soaked the entire book.The originally indestructible demon paper immediately became soft and limp upon touching water, and the effect of the fruit ability was greatly weakened....Inside the book world.Nami was gritting her teeth, trying to make one last struggle, when she suddenly felt the surrounding environment vibrate violently.Immediately after, it actually started raining heavily without any warning.Those sturdy paper chains binding her quickly softened and snapped like melting snow under the washing of the rainwater!"The chains... they broke?!"Losing their restraints, Nami and Chopper fell from mid-air together.Seeing they were about to hit the ground, Choppervery alertly transformed into his Hybrid Forminstantly.Guard Point!Chopper turned into a giant fluffy ball of fur and landed steadily on the ground.Nami happened to land on his soft back, completely unharmed.As soon as the two landed,CRACK—!!The barrier trapping them was completely torn open from the outside by a violent force!Light shone in.When Nami saw the tall and mighty blue figure outside the hole clearly, her large eyes instantly erupted with unbelievable joy."Jinbe?!?!""Yo-ho-ho-ho, Miss Nami, Mr. Chopper, I've brought over some super powerful backup!"Brook's soul form also floated in with the momentum, quickly drilling back into the slumped skeleton body in the corner.With the light sound of bones grinding, Brookstood up again."This is great! Waaaah o(╥﹏╥)o, I thought I'd never get to eat cotton candy again!"Chopper reverted to his little reindeer form, lunged forward, and hugged Jinbe's leg, crying his heart out.Nami jumped down from Chopper's back.Although she looked a bit disheveled after being tied up for so long, her gaze was exceptionally bright and firm.She casually tidied her clothes, took a deep breath, and forcibly suppressed the joy of being rescued."Jinbe, thank you so much."Nami looked at this reliable man with extreme seriousness."Miss Nami, you're too kind. I've long considered you all as companions in my heart; I don't care at all for that hypocritical treatment."Jinbe gave a simple and honest smile, then his expression became serious,"We can't delay any longer. Having made such a big commotion here, pursuers will arrive soon. We must go and rescue Sanji-kun immediately!!!""No!"To everyone's surprise, Nami shook her head very decisively, directly rejecting Jinbe's proposal."We absolutely cannot go find Sanji right now!""Eh? Why?"Chopper was full of confusion,"Sanji is about to be controlled by Big Mom's malicious plan!"
Chapter 470: Memories (Part 21) — Stubborn Sanji!"Eh? Why?!""Sanji is about to be controlled by Big Mom's vicious plan!!"Nami took a deep breath and wrapped the oversized coat Jinbe had tossed her around her body.She unceremoniously pulled the front of the coat tight, even tying a dead knot under her neck, wrapping herself up like a tightly sealed zongzi."Chopper, where does your usual cleverness go at critical moments?"Nami rolled her eyes grandly and reached out to rap Chopper on his furry head.Chopper clutched his head, looking at her with teary eyes."Think about it carefully."Nami held up a finger, her tone turning serious."First of all, this Whole Cake Chateau is crawling with Big Mom's informants! That old hag is one of the Four Emperors!""Luffy isn't even here right now. With the state we're in, what do we have to go head-to-head with Big Mom?""Are you going to use your antlers as a catapult?"Chopper was so scared he quickly covered his antlers and shook his head frantically.Jinbe stood to the side and nodded in agreement."Miss Nami is right. The current situation is extremely unfavorable for us. Barging in would be like throwing eggs against a stone.""Secondly."Nami held up a second finger, a calculating glint flashing in her large eyes."Big Mom's real goal is actually Germa's cloning technology.""She went to all the trouble of arranging this Tea Party just to tie Sanji down in Totto Land through marriage, forcing him to marry into the Charlottefamily."Brook's hollow eye sockets stared at Nami, his tone carrying a hint of confusion."Yo-ho-ho-ho, what do you mean, Miss Nami?""Big Mom is a pirate who cares about profit."Nami curled her lip, analyzing the situation logically."Going to war with Luffy is too much trouble for her. She just wants to control Sanji and indirectly dismantle our fighting force.""As long as we evacuate safely and escape Big Mom's control, Sanji won't be held hostage just because we're in her hands. He won't have to hold back anymore.""And..."Nami suddenly stomped her foot indignantly."That damn Curly Eyebrows might be acting all lovey-dovey with that fiancée named Pudding right now!""We need to keep observing the situation. If we rush over now, we might just ruin his mood for picking up girls!!!"Chopper's mouth hung open, his face full of disbelief."Would Sanji... really forget about us just to get married?""Who knows if that Perverted Cook's head is filled with nothing but dirty thoughts!"Nami brandished her clima-tact, gritting her teeth."So, our top priority right now is to leave this place immediately and return to the going merry!!!"The group quickly began their evacuation.Jinbe led the way. His broad, solid back gave them a great sense of security. Any Homies that dared to approach were instantly blasted into nothingness by his Fish-Man Karate.Brook transformed into his soul form to scout the path from the air.Chopper transformed into his massive, four-legged Guard Point form, steadily carrying Nami as he sprinted through the corridors.Nami sat on Chopper's back.She kept the coat wrapped tightly around her, even tucking her hands into the sleeves.Upon reaching a relatively safe spiral staircase, Nami pulled a den den mushi from a deep pocket."Bulu bulu bulu..."The unique calling sound of the den den mushiechoed through the passage.It rang for a full minute. Just as Nami was about to lose patience and smash the den den mushi, the call was finally connected.The den den mushi's facial features instantly transformed into a face with Curly Eyebrows, looking completely bewildered."Nami-san? Is that you? Are you okay?"Sanji's voice carried uncontrollable joy and even a hint of a relieved tremor.Hearing that familiar yet annoying voice, Nami's previous anger surged back. She yelled at the den den mushi:"Of course!!! If we waited for an idiot like you who chooses women over friends to save us, we'd have been turned into Big Mom's specimens long ago!!""...It was Boss Jinbe who rescued us!!!"Sanji on the other end clearly breathed a huge sigh of relief, his tone immediately switching back to his usual lovestruck mode."That's great! As expected of Boss Jinbe.""Hearing that Nami-san is safe, I feel like even the air has turned into sweet candy.""Nami-san, you're not hurt, are you? Did those crude fellows hurt you...""Cut it out!!!"Nami interrupted him mercilessly, her voice turning stern."Listen up, you damn Curly Eyebrows!""Don't think I don't know about Big Mom's conspiracy. She has no intention of a sincere marriage with the Vinsmoke family at tomorrow's Tea Party. Her real goal is Germa's technology!""Don't be a fool and go through with this marriage. Big Mom is using you to trap you in Totto Landforever!""You must be careful!!!"The voice on the other end of the den den mushipaused for a moment.Then came the crisp sound of a lighter sparking a cigarette.The den den mushi mimicked Sanji taking a deep drag and then slowly exhaling a smoke ring."Yeah, I figured as much," Sanji's voice was surprisingly calm.Nami's eyes widened, her anger hitting the roof."You figured as much? You figured it out and you're still staying there waiting to be screwed over?""Do you have water in your brain?""Or did that woman named Pudding iron out your IQ along with your Curly Eyebrows?!""No, Pudding-chan is a gentle, good girl."Sanji's voice carried an unquestionable firmness."I'm aware of Big Mom's conspiracy, but I have reasons I must face.""You hopeless idiot!! Do you think you can solve everything by yourself?!?"Nami was so anxious she almost jumped off Chopper's back. She gripped the den den mushitightly."Listen, I'm going to contact Luffy right now! I'll have him come to Cake Island immediately!""As long as he's here, he'll definitely take you away and smash Big Mom's Tea Party to pieces while he's at it!!!""No!!!"Sanji suddenly raised his voice, loudly rejecting Nami's suggestion.The rejection was decisive, leaving no room for negotiation.Nami was stunned, her face full of confusion. "Why? Have you gone crazy?"The den den mushi's expression became solemn. Sanji exhaled a cloud of white smoke, his tone low but carrying a strong sense of responsibility."Nami-san, that idiot Luffy might be dueling Kaido of the Beasts right now.""You know very well what kind of monster Kaidois.""The pressure and danger Luffy is facing are already enough!!""At a time like this, I absolutely cannot disturb him with my personal matters!""But how are you going to deal with Big Mom's army alone?"Nami argued urgently. "This is the territory of one of the Four Emperors!"A light chuckle came from the other side of the den den mushi."Don't underestimate me, Nami-san."Sanji's voice came through the airwaves, carrying an irresistible sense of security."I am your cook!!""Trouble of this level, I can clean it up all by myself.""Don't forget, my specialty is handling tough ingredients.""But...""No buts."Sanji interrupted her, his tone turning gentle again."Go back to the ship and wait for me!!""While you're at it, help me check the food stock in the kitchen. When I get back, I'll make the best seafood feast for you all.""Doo—doo—doo—"The call was unilaterally disconnected.Nami stared blankly at the den den mushi in her hand, her chest heaving. It was hard to tell if it was from anger or some other emotion."That hopeless damn Curly Eyebrows!"Nami bit her lower lip and stomped hard on Chopper's back in frustration, causing Chopper to let out a small, aggrieved grunt."He actually dared to hang up on me! He actually dared to give me orders!"Although her words were harsh, Nami's eyes involuntarily turned slightly red.She knew that man all too well.Sanji was always like this, saying the gentlest things in the most annoying tone.He took all the danger and burdens onto his own shoulders, preferring to throw himself into a life-or-death situation...rather than drag down Luffy, who was fighting for his life, or let his companions get sucked into the terrifying vortex of one of the Four Emperors for his sake.This clumsy, stubborn, and helpless gentleness was truly infuriating to the extreme.The image of Sanji's back as he cooked on the ship surfaced in her mind.That guy always saved the sweetest fruits and most delicate snacks for her and Robin.When danger struck, he was always the first to charge in, using those black legs he was so proud of to kick away all obstacles.Now, this idiot wanted to play the hero all by himself in a hell like Totto Land.Jinbe looked back at Nami's complex expression, a knowing smile appearing on his honest whale shark face.This bond of the Straw Hat crew—where they scolded each other but were willing to die for one another—was exactly why he was willing to give up everything to follow them."Miss Nami, what do we do next?"Brook's soul floated back from ahead and settled into his skeleton, making a clicking sound."What else can we do?"Nami sniffled hard, thoroughly wiping away that hint of vulnerability from her eyes.When she looked up again, the decisive, money-loving, and authoritative Navigator was fully back.Nami gripped her clima-tact, the fire of uncompromising resolve burning in her large eyes."Back to the ship!!!"Nami's voice rang out powerfully in the corridor."Since that idiot had the nerve to say he can handle it, we'll go and prepare a retreat route for him.""But listen well, if he messes up..."Dangerous electrical sparks began to crackle at the tip of her clima-tact....From the direction of the royal palace in the distance, a low rumble faintly echoed.On the eve of the Tea Party,thick black clouds had gathered in the sky over Totto Land at some unknown point.
Chapter 471: Memory Arc (End) — Sanji & Reiju!On the other side,The den den mushi fell silent.Sanji slowly put away the den den mushi, tucking it into the inner pocket of his suit. His movements were very gentle, as if it weren't a communication tool but a burning heart.He didn't turn around immediately, but stood quietly in front of the floor-to-ceiling window and lit another cigarette.His current expression was reflected on the glass of the window. Gone was the tenderness he showed Pudding, and the flirtatiousness he showed Nami; on that handsome face, there was only a cold, extreme determination.He had just used the gentlest lies to coax the mentally broken three-eye tribe girl to sleep. He told her everything would be fine and that he would take her to see the real sea. Pudding had finally fallen asleep crying in his arms with a faint glimmer of hope, and was now settled in the room next door.But Sanji knew better than anyone that the promises he made were all just illusions."A mere Four Emperors... they can't stop our Captain at all..."Sanji blew out a thick white smoke ring and smiled mockingly.Those words sounded like they were overflowing with Haki, but only he knew that it was just a placebo for that poor girl. Luffy was currently far away in Wano Country, facing the even more troublesome Kaido of the Beasts. At this critical juncture, he absolutely could not cause any trouble for the Captain because of his own mess.Therefore, he had to carve a blood-soaked path alone through this iron cage built of candy and conspiracy."Honestly, I'm just a cook, why do I always have to do this kind of rough, killing work?" Sanji irritably ran his hand through his blond curly hair. "I miss Nami-san and Robin-chan so much... Only they can soothe my weary heart."Just as he was habitually acting like a love-struck fool, a cool female voice rang out behind him without warning."Your Navigator lady has quite a temper."Sanji's fingers holding the cigarette jerked, and his body tensed for a moment before immediately relaxing again.He slowly turned around and looked at the figure who had stood in the shadows of the room at some unknown point.It was Reiju.His sister, Vinsmoke Reiju.She stood there quietly, as if she had merged with the shadows of the room.At this moment, Reiju had changed into a black silk long dress.The style of the dress wasn't revealing, yet it perfectly outlined her nearly illegal body curves.The soft Moonlight spilled over her through the window, making her signature long pink hair look like it was plated in silver, shimmering with a non-human, dreamlike luster.Her face, which bore some resemblance to Sanji's but was more delicate and cold, held no expression.Sanji's gaze lingered on her for less than half a second before he immediately looked away as if burned.What the hell.Sanji cursed fiercely in his heart.He could admire any beauty in the world without batting an eye, and could even offer them the most exaggerated praise.But only when facing Reiju did he always feel an indescribable awkwardness.Perhaps it was because that face always reminded him of the family he loathed,Or perhaps because, in his darkest childhood memories, only this sister had ever given him the single faint glimmer of light."You eavesdropped on my call?"Sanji spoke with a hint of subtle vigilance."It wasn't eavesdropping, I just happened to be passing by."Reiju's tone was as flat as if she were talking about something that had nothing to do with her."Your voice was too loud; the entire corridor could hear your little Navigator's roaring."Sanji's mouth twitched."So, you also heard Big Mom's plan?"He simply laid his cards on the table and lit another cigarette."Mm."Reiju gave a faint response and walked over to sit on the sofa opposite Sanji, her movements as elegant as a black swan.Sanji narrowed his eyes, carefully observing her expression, trying to find even the slightest ripple of emotion on that icy face."Tomorrow, Germa will be wiped out in one fell swoop.""You... including that self-righteous father, will all die at that fake wedding."Sanji said each word deliberately."What are your thoughts on this?"Reiju looked up.Those were eyes beautiful enough to make one's heart skip a beat, yet they were terrifyingly hollow—no fear, no anger, not even a shred of the desire to survive."Me?"The corners of Reiju's mouth curled into an almost imperceptible mocking arc."What thoughts could I have?"Her voice remained flat, yet it carried a sadness that reached into the marrow of her bones."Sanji, you seem to have forgotten~""I am Vinsmoke Reiju, Father's most perfect creation.My mission is to obey orders, whether that order is to fight or to die."Sanji's heart sank."Don't you still retain your emotions?"He growled low, "Weren't you spared from being turned into a complete cold-blooded machine?!""Yes, I retained my emotions."Reiju looked down at her long, fair fingers, her tone tinged with a strange self-mockery."So, I can feel pain, I can feel sadness, I can feel despair... but so what?""My body, my will—from the moment I was born, they haven't belonged to me.As long as Father gives the order, even if he tells me to kill you with my own hands, I cannot resist.""As for Germa 66..."Reiju looked up at the night sky outside the window, her gaze drifting."What is it?A mobile war fortress?A killer organization that strikes fear into people's hearts?To me, it's nothing.""I have no companions, no family, not even a memory worth cherishing... I have no feelings for that place."She turned back and looked at Sanji again. In those hollow eyes, for the first time, there was a ripple.It was a... longing that bordered on liberation."So, if it's destroyed, then let it be destroyed~If Germa is destined to perish at this Tea Party, then for me, perhaps it's a decent ending.""At least I finally won't have to be that cold poison pink anymore, and I won't have to carry out those filthy missions against my will.To die cleanly like this, isn't that quite good?""You're crazy!!!"Sanji stood up abruptly.He rushed in front of Reiju, his hands firmly gripping her shoulders, almost roaring his questions:"What do you mean 'quite good'?!Is your life really that worthless?!Freedom!Don't you long for freedom?!!!"The sharp pain from her shoulders made Reiju's brow furrow slightly, but she still didn't resist.She just looked up, quietly watching her enraged younger brother.Freedom?To her, that word was as extravagant as it was ridiculous.She had once longed for it too.In that cold laboratory,Watching a young Sanji being heartlessly mocked and beaten by his brothers for making a bad-tasting bento,She had also thought about how wonderful it would be if she could be like him, having the right to cry and resist.Is her,Who had personally broken the bars of the cage imprisoning Sanji and pushed him toward that vast sea called "freedom."While she herself chose to remain in this hell, day after day playing the role of the perfect, emotionless killing tool.It had been too long—so long that she had almost forgotten that she once had a heart that could feel pain."Freedom..."Reiju repeated the word in a low voice.Tears fell without warning from those hollow eyes, sliding down her smooth cheeks and dripping onto the back of Sanji's hand."For me, it's already too late, Sanji."Sanji's body stiffened abruptly.He suddenly remembered that night many years ago, in that same cold iron cage.[Run away, Sanji!Don't live like us!You must go and find people who truly treat you as family!]She had traded her own bruises and wounds for his freedom.And he, after enjoying so many years of sunshine, food, and the warmth of companions,Had almost forgotten that the person who pushed him toward the light was still mired deep in hell."Dammit..."Sanji released his grip on Reiju's shoulders and slowly backed away two steps.He lowered his head, his blond bangs covering his eyes, making it impossible to see his expression.The room fell into a deathly silence.After a long time, Sanji looked up.He looked at Reiju, a wild and confident smile slowly curling on his lips."You're right, a mess of a kingdom like Germa 66... it wouldn't be a pity at all if it were destroyed."Reiju was stunned, not understanding why he suddenly said that."I don't have a single shred of goodwill toward that self-righteous father or those three muscle-brained idiot brothers.""To be honest, if I could see them die in despair tomorrow with my own eyes, I might even open a bottle of '82 red wine to celebrate."Sanji walked to the window and pushed it open, letting the cold night wind blow against his face."But, Reiju."He turned around, his back to the myriad lights of Totto Land, his blue eyes shining startlingly bright in the night."You forgot, I'm also a Vinsmoke!!Even if I'm ten thousand times unwilling to admit it, that man is still the father who sired me!!""I can hate him, I can never forgive him for the rest of my life, I can even dance on his grave!!But I absolutely cannot stand by and watch him be taken out by such despicable means."Sanji's voice grew louder and louder, finally becoming a powerful declaration."Most importantly..."His gaze locked firmly onto Reiju's shock-filled face, his tone becoming firmer than ever before."You saved my life once.""So, I've decided.""Tomorrow, I will save Germa 66, I will save that bastard old man, and I will save those three idiot brothers.""Not for them, but for you.""I want you to know that so-called fate, so-called orders—in the face of absolute power—"Sanji's right foot lifted slightly, his black leather shoe glinting coldly in the Moonlight."—are all not worth mentioning!!!"
Chapter 472: Bloody Tea Party (I) — The Straw Hat's Plan!The night was deep.The going merry was quietly lying in wait in a secluded stretch of water on the edge of the Seducing Woods.Inside the kitchen.Nami huddled tightly in a chair in the corner of the dining table.She held a warm cup of orange tea in both hands and took a gentle sip.A trace of worry flashed in her large eyes, but it was quickly overshadowed by a habitual sense of helplessness."Nami..."Chopper trotted over with his small hooves, his furry face filled with anxiety."Is it really okay for Sanji to stay there all by himself?""Big Mom is one of the Four Emperors! And there are so many powerful Sweet Commanders and Ministers..."Looking at Chopper's expression, which seemed as if he were about to burst into tears from worry.Nami reached out a hand and gently rubbed the hat on top of his head."Don't worry, Chopper.""That dead Curly Eyebrows might look unreliable normally, with his head full of unspeakable perverted thoughts...""But he is, after all, an absolute mainstay of our ship."Recalling Sanji's firm and arrogant tone over the den den mushi.The corners of Nami's mouth curled up unconsciously."When it comes to dealing with troublesome ingredients, who can beat our chef?""If Big Mom thinks she can control him through such despicable means, she's severely underestimating the resolve of the Pirate King's wings."Though she said that.Nami's fingers holding the teacup still tightened slightly without her realizing it.After all, that place was a dragon's den and a tiger's lair; saying she wasn't worried at all would be a complete lie.She just knew better than anyone that Sanji's strength had long since surpassed the restaurant boy in the East Blue who needed others' protection."Yohohoho..."Eerie green soul flames flickered in Brook's empty eye sockets as he drifted slowly toward the dining table."Since Mr. Sanji has made up his mind to personally sabotage Big Mom's Tea Party and spirit that beautiful Miss Pudding away onto our ship...""Then we should grant him our absolute trust!"Jinbe, who had been silent, now pulled over a large wooden chair and sat down.His massive, burly frame instantly filled the small kitchen with a sense of security.His deep blue whale shark face was full of the composure of a seasoned veteran."Since Sanji-kun has decided to cause a major scene at the front.""Then this chaos is a once-in-a-lifetime golden opportunity for us!"Jinbe's thick fingers tapped gently on the tabletop."In Big Mom's treasure room, there is a precious red Road Poneglyph stored.""Brother Luffy isn't here right now.""With our current combat power, we absolutely cannot go head-to-head with Big Mom's main forces.""So..."Jinbe glanced at everyone."Let Sanji-kun draw all the fire.""Brook and I will take advantage of the chaos to sneak into the treasure room and make a rubbing of that red Road Poneglyph!"This plan was bold enough and reasonable enough."Great idea!"Nami's large eyes instantly lit up, her shrewd radar as both a money-grubber and a Navigatorimmediately activating."Then Chopper and I will stay here and guard the sunny!""As soon as you succeed, or as soon as Sanji's side retreats, we'll leave this sea area immediately!"The plan was set!Jinbe and Brook immediately began checking their equipment, preparing to sneak back into Whole Cake Chateau before the sun fully rose.And in the kitchen, things slowly quieted down.Chopper ran off to check the medical kit.Nami sat alone at the table, her face resting in her hands.The steam from the orange tea rose, making her vision slightly blurry.Her thoughts, however, drifted uncontrollably toward that distant land—Wano Country."That idiot Luffy..."Nami bit her lip and muttered softly.At this very moment, that single-minded creature wearing the straw hat is surely heartlessly gorging himself on roasted meat, right?As soon as she thought of Luffy.Nami's cheeks couldn't help but burn and turn red.In her mind...Those heart-pounding scenes began to play on a loop uncontrollably.He clearly looked like a blockhead who knew nothing about the feelings between men and women normally.But once night came...Once the two of them were alone!That rubber idiot became so domineering that one simply had no strength to resist!This body she was so proud of had long since been thoroughly and completely devoured by that little thief (cross that out, Captain-sama)!And it wasn't just her.Even Sister Robin, who was always intellectual, elegant, and calm in the face of everything...Had long since fallen to Luffy's offensive!Thinking about how Sister Robin usually acted like a mature older sister, but in private would let that idiot Luffy manipulate her into all sorts of difficult Hana Hana no Mi poses...Nami couldn't help but grind her cute little canine teeth.And that wasn't all!Besides herself and Robin.There was also Uta, that clingy little childhood friend!That World Diva would stick to Luffy whenever she got the chance, as if she wanted to hang her entire body on him.Although that last thin layer of paper hasn't been poked through yet.But with Uta's intense and direct way of throwing herself at him, being completely eaten by Luffywas definitely just a matter of time!"Hmph!"Nami gave a huff of annoyance, and the orange tea in her hand suddenly didn't taste so good anymore.A thick wave of jealousy spread wildly through the kitchen of the sunny.That rubber idiot's luck with women was simply ridiculously strong!Right now in Wano Country, it must be a paradise teeming with women who are as gentle as water and submissive!Luffy is the kind of glowing body that radiates that damn personal charisma wherever he goes.Maybe...He just defeated some enemy and is currently being admired with starry eyes by some beautiful princess or valiant female warrior from Wano Country!The image instantly took shape in Nami's mind.A woman wearing a kimono was leaning daintily against Luffy."Luffy-sama is so amazing~ This humble one has no way to repay you, so I can only offer myself to you in marriage~"And that idiot Luffy would surely be gnawing on a bone-in meat while laughing and saying:"Sure, sure, as long as you provide food!"Then Sister Robin wouldn't just not stop it, but would instead stand to the side covering her mouth and laughing:"Hehe, Mr. Captain is truly popular.""Aaaaaah—!"Nami suddenly went berserk.She used both hands to vigorously rub her short orange hair, turning her perfectly fine hairstyle into a bird's nest."No, no, no!""I absolutely cannot let that idiot continue to expand his harem!""After we pick up Sanji this time and regroup, I'm definitely going to dock all of Luffy's pocket money! I won't even leave him enough for meat!""Let's see what he uses to go around provoking other women then!"Chopper, who was organizing bandages in the corner, was startled into a shiver by Nami's sudden outburst.Weak, pitiful, and helpless.He completely couldn't understand why Nami, who was so calm just a moment ago, had suddenly turned into a terrifying person who looked like she wanted to eat someone.Women...Are just too scary!...Time passed minute by minute.Until the first ray of dawn pierced through the thick layers of clouds.The sky over Totto Land brightened.This massive dessert empire was finally about to welcome its most boisterous and crazed day.The preparation work for the Tea Party had reached its final stages.At the open-air venue on the top floor of Whole Cake Chateau.The air was filled with a strange scent of cream mixed with blood that was so thick it was almost suffocating."Perorin~"The eldest son, Perospero, leaned on his signature giant Candy Cane.His long tongue licked his lips, a cruel light flashing in his eyes."Are those fools from the Vinsmoke Family already starting to dream of dominating the North Blue?""Today's candy trap must be so sweet that they won't even be able to forget it on the road to the afterlife!"On the other side.Smoothie, one of the three Sweet Commanders, lazily crossed her incredibly long legs.She held a giant goblet in her hand.As she activated her ability, an unlucky traitor was wrung dry by her like a towel.The crimson liquid flowed into the cup and was drained by her in one gulp."A boring marriage game.""I really hope that guy named Sanji can struggle a bit longer, so I can stretch my limbs a little."In the shadows of the corner.Cracker was irritably gnawing on the Biscuit Shieldin his hand, making "crack-crack" sounds."Those bastards of the Straw Hat...""Once the Tea Party is over, I'm definitely going to turn them all into the hardest, driest biscuit crumbs!"And at the highest point of the entire venue.Katakuri stood quietly in the morning breeze with his arms crossed.A crimson scarf covered most of his face.Those eyes that could briefly foresee the future were now filled with solemnity.In his Observation Haki's perception.The plan that was supposed to be perfect was now filled with countless blurred, violent variables!"Dong—! Dong—! Dong—!"
Chapter 473: The Bloody Tea Party (II) — A Gathering of Heroes!Dong— Dong— Dong!!The bells for the Tea Party rang out right on time.The open-air venue on the top floor of the Whole Cake Chateau was already packed with people, and the noise was deafening.In the air, the rich aroma of cream mixed with the extravagant scent of alcohol, creating a decadent smell that was almost sickeningly sweet."Gah gah gah gah! This is truly BIG NEWS!!!"The president of the World Economic Times, "Big News" Morgans, was excitedly flapping his wings.On his massive bird head, his small eyes glinted with the peculiar light of a paparazzi, greedily scanning everyone present.The Four Emperors Charlotte Linlin and the Vinsmoke Family are forming an alliance through marriage!A powerhouse union of this level was enough to make the entire world's power structure tremble!!!Regardless of whether this wedding succeeded or failed, he had already reserved tomorrow's front-page headline!!!"Hmph, it's nothing more than a filthy transaction where each side gets what they need."Sitting not far from Morgans was the King of Loan Sharks, Du Feld.He swirled the wine glass in his hand, looking at the crimson liquid inside, his face wearing the disdain typical of a businessman."Big Mom wants Germa's technology, and Judgewants the protection of one of the Four Emperors... I'm really looking forward to seeing their faces as they plot against each other."Umit, the King of Shipping, chuckled on the side, his greasy, fat body nearly bursting out of his custom-made chocolate chair."I heard that the third son of the Vinsmoke Familyis actually the cook for the Straw Hat crew?""I wonder if that lawless Straw Hat boy will come to join the fun?"As soon as these words were spoken, the faces of several Underground Emperors nearby showed expressions of anticipation for a good show.Among these big shots of the dark world, there was one figure whose appearance seemed completely out of place.She sat there quietly, like a lily blooming in the mud, untouched by a single speck of dust.The Queen of the Pleasure District — Stussy.Today, she wore a well-tailored white tube-top dress and a matching wide-brimmed hat adorned with a delicate pink rose.Her beautiful blonde wavy hair draped casually over her shoulders, and her fair skin seemed to glow under the sunlight.Unlike the others, she didn't engage in loud chatter; she simply held a glass of champagne elegantly, a faint, captivating smile playing on her rosy lips.Her presence made the surrounding Underground Emperors, who were reeking of money and blood, feel a bit ashamed of their own coarseness.However, only a few people knew.This seemingly harmless Queen of the Pleasure District was actually the most dangerous and unfathomable existence among this group.On the surface, Stussy was admiring the bubbles in her glass, but from the corner of her eye, she was scanning the entire venue.Her gaze swept over the children of the Charlotte Family one by one.Perospero's insidiousness, Smoothie's laziness, Cracker's irritability...Finally, her gaze landed on the highest point of the venue, on the man who stood as motionless as a statue — Katakuri.As if sensing her gaze.Katakuri tilted his head slightly, and his deep eyes met Stussy's gaze briefly in the air.No words were spoken, and no expression was shown.Stussy withdrew her gaze, and the charming smile on her lips deepened slightly."Interesting...""It seems today's Tea Party won't be as peaceful as it appears on the surface."Just then!!!A commotion broke out at the entrance of the venue.Led by the attendants, Vinsmoke Judge strode in with his children amidst a chorus of gasps.Judge was clad in golden battle armor and wore a crown, his face filled with the pride and arrogance of someone about to stand on equal footing with one of the Four Emperors.Behind him, Ichiji, Niji, and Yonji were dressed in their respective colored Raid Suits, hands in their pockets, their faces carved with the same mold of indifference and contempt.Reiju, who walked last, was in a pink and white dress, her beautiful face devoid of any expression, like an exquisite but soulless doll."Ooh! That's the evil army, Germa 66!!!""What a strong sense of pressure! As expected of the family that could dominate the North Blue!!!"The guests' chatter made the pride on Judge's face even more pronounced.However, just as they were about to reach the head guest seats.The eldest son, Perospero, leaning on his candy cane, smilingly blocked their path."Perorin~ Welcome, distinguished guests of the Vinsmoke Family, who have traveled from afar.""To show the sincerity of our alliance and to ensure the absolute safety of the Tea Party.""Before the wedding officially begins, could I ask you all to temporarily hand over your Transformation Devices?"As soon as these words were spoken, the whole place erupted.The smile on Judge's face instantly froze."What do you mean by this?!?!"Niji, who had the most explosive temper, was the first to snap.Blue electrical sparks crackled on his body, and a wild killing intent directly locked onto Perospero."Are you doubting us?!?!"Yonji also cracked his knuckles, his bones popping."Daring to boss us around in Germa, are you tired of living?"It looked like a fight was about to break out."Everyone, stop!!!"Judge suddenly turned around and scolded his sons in a low voice.Despite feeling incredibly humiliated, Judge, whose head was clouded by the prestige of the Four Emperors, still forced himself to suppress his anger.He turned back and squeezed out a stiff smile at Perospero."Hehe, of course, no problem.""This... can also be considered a way for us to show our sincerity."After saying that, Judge was the first to take off the Transformation Device from his waist.Although Ichiji, Niji, and Yonji were all displeased, under their father's strict orders, they could only do so reluctantly.Reiju didn't say a word from beginning to end.She just silently handed over her Transformation Device and then looked up at the clear sky above the venue.Deep within those hollow eyes, a thick, inescapable sorrow flashed."It has begun...""Father, you have personally sounded the death knell for your own kingdom."Just after the Germa group sat down and the atmosphere became a bit eerie.Boom—!!!The doors of the venue were suddenly blown open by a force!"Charlotte Linlin! Get the hell out here!!!""Today, I'm going to take your head and make a name for myself!!!"A few reckless rookie pirates, leading a group of weaklings, charged in with wild roars.Every year at the Tea Party, there are always a few idiots who want to reach the top in one step by challenging one of the Four Emperors.The guests present didn't even bother to blink at such a minor interlude.The fourth son of the Charlotte Family — Daifuku, slowly stood up from his seat.He rubbed his stomach.Buzz—!The air distorted, and a muscular Lamp Genieholding a trident,roared as it emerged from his navel, knocking the group of weaklings over in a single charge.Immediately after.The Minister of Flour, Oven, also walked over.He didn't even bother to lift a finger, simply pushing his ability to the maximum."Heat Sea!"A terrifying high temperature instantly swept through the entire entrance.The pirates who had rushed in didn't even have time to scream before being roasted into charcoal in the scorching air!!!In less than thirty seconds.A farce had ended in a cruel and bloody manner.The venue became quiet again, as if nothing had happened.Finally.When the clock struck noon.The wedding march resounded through the skies."Ma-ma-ma-ma—!!!""Ma-ma-ma-ma—!!!"All the Homies began to shout frantically, the fanatical waves of sound almost threatening to blow the roof off Whole Cake Chateau!!!Under everyone's gaze.The main doors of the venue slowly opened.A massive shadow appeared!!The Four Emperors — Charlotte Linlin!She wore that ridiculous pink dress, riding on the Thundercloud Zeus and holding Napoleon.On that ugly, bloated face was a manic smile that seemed ready to devour everything."WEDDING—CAKE—!!!"Accompanying her soul-shattering laughter.BIG MOM had arrived!!!
Chapter 474: Bloody Tea Party (III) — The Wedding Is Underway!When the Four Emperors' Charlotte Linlin took her seat on that giant throne.The atmosphere of the entire venue instantly reached its peak!"Ma-ma-ma-ma! What a delightful day it is!"Big Mom grabbed a handful of screaming Homiesdesserts from the table and mercilessly stuffed them into her cavernous mouth, chewing until the juice splattered everywhere."Hurry up! I can't wait to taste the world's most delicious wedding cake!""Bring out the newlyweds immediately!!!"Accompanied by Big Mom's impatient urging.At the center of the venue, the giant archway decorated with pink roses at the end of the red carpet slowly opened to both sides.The melodious, sacred wedding march echoed throughout the Whole Cake Chateau.Under the gaze of countless eyes filled with various desires.The groom and the bride finally made their appearance!Sanji wore a crisp, pure white tuxedo today, his short blond hair combed meticulously.That signature curly eyebrow didn't look comical at this moment; instead, it held a sort of aristocratic elegance.He already had good features, and coupled with his tall, slender build.In this outfit, he was simply a Prince Charming stepped out of a fairy tale, so handsome it was hard to look away!And beside him.Pudding wore a magnificent, pure white wedding dress with a long train.Her already sweet and lovely face, enhanced by exquisite makeup, was breathtakingly beautiful.If one only looked at the surface...This was absolutely the most well-matched and eye-catching couple on these seas!"Ohhh! What a beautiful bride!""That Vinsmoke kid is quite lucky in love!"The surrounding Underworld Emperors raised their glasses one after another, letting out bursts of hypocritical praise.Morgans was even more excited, repeatedly pressing the shutter as the flashbulbs popped incessantly."Quack quack quack! If these photos make the front page tomorrow, the newspapers will definitely sell out!"However.Beneath this seemingly perfect and romantic facade.Only Sanji, who was closest, could clearly feel...That this girl, who was tightly clutching his arm.Was currently shaking like a leaf!Pudding gripped Sanji's sleeve tightly.Her breathing was short and erratic, her chest heaving violently.On that gorgeous face, although she forced a professional, sweet smile.Deep in her eyes, there was endless panic and despair!!!It was an instinctive fear of the massive monster on the high platform!Since childhood.Pudding had lived under Big Mom's terrifying shadow.Being treated as a disgusting monster.Being treated as a perfect tool for marriage alliances and assassinations![Disgusting three-eye tribe!][Cover that eye with your bangs, don't let it irritate me!]These vicious words from her own mother were like an inescapable nightmare, clinging to her tightly.And now!What was she about to do?!In front of all the high-ranking officers of Totto Land...In front of these cold-blooded Underworld Emperors...Under the very nose of the Four Emperors' Charlotte Linlin...She was going to betray her!!!"No... I can't do it..."Pudding wailed in despair in her heart, tears almost welling up in her eyes."I'll be killed!""Mama will definitely tear me to pieces!""Even my soul will be pulled out and fed to those ugly Homies!""Wuwuwu... The Straw Hat crew isn't here right now. Even if Mr. Sanji is strong, he can't beat a Four Emperor! QAQ""If Mama gets angry later, will she turn me into a blob of cream ice cream?"Just as she was about to completely break down.A warm palm,Lightly covered her cold little hand.Pudding shuddered.She looked up abruptly.And bumped into a pair of deep blue eyes. Within them was the sea, tenderness, and a reassuring strength."Don't be afraid."Sanji didn't speak, but she understood the message conveyed in those eyes.He tilted his head slightly and said softly, in a voice only the two of them could hear:"Pudding-chan.""Today, you really are the most beautiful bride in the world.""So... puff out your chest and walk this red carpet beautifully.""Leave the rest of the mess to me."These few short sentences.Like a small sun, they instantly crashed into Pudding's frozen heart, melting all those cold fears!In her mind.Uncontrollably, the image from last night surfaced again—this man holding her face and placing a gentle kiss on her ugly third eye.[What beautiful eyes... just like the brightest stars in the universe.]Pudding bit her moist red lips.Her heart began to race uncontrollably!Her originally tense body miraculously softened.A type of near-blind courage she had never felt before surged from the deepest part of her heart."If I die, then I die!"Pudding gritted her teeth inwardly.The 'love-brain' attribute of the three-eye tribe girl was completely activated to the maximum level at this moment!"To be able to die with such a gentle and handsome man...""This life is worth it for this old lady!!!"Having come to terms with this, Pudding raised a heartfelt, sweet smile again. Her steps became light and firm, and she even unconsciously leaned a bit closer to Sanji.The two of them followed the red carpet.Step by step, they walked to the giant altar built of high-grade candy.The priest was a man with wings, wearing a crucifix.He cleared his throat and opened the thick Bible in his hand."Ahem...""At this great and sacred moment.""Under the witness of Mama and all the distinguished guests!""Groom, Vinsmoke Sanji.""Do you take Charlotte Pudding to be your wife?""In poverty and in wealth, in sickness and in health, in good times and in bad.""To always love her and protect her, until death do you part?"The priest's solemn voice echoed above the venue.The eyes of the entire audience were focused on Sanji.Below the stage.Judge snorted coldly, crossing his arms."This boy finally did something decent and didn't shame the Vinsmoke Family."The three brothers, Ichiji, Niji, and Yonji, had expressions of contempt, as if watching a comical monkey show.On the main seat.Big Mom's eyes were fixed on Sanji.Saliva was already flowing from her massive mouth like a waterfall, dripping onto the expensive carpet."Ma-ma-ma-ma!""It's almost within my grasp!""Germa's invincible Clone Army!""And this super chef who can not only fight but also make peerless delicacies!!!"Big Mom was so excited that her flab was shaking violently.As long as Sanji said 'I do'.By then, even if Straw Hat led his people to attack, they wouldn't dream of taking away her most satisfactory son-in-law!However.While the entire venue was immersed in the joy of achieving their goals and the mindset of watching a good show.Only one person.Perceived a fatal crisis!At the highest point of the venue.Katakuri's arms, which had been crossed over his chest, suddenly dropped!Those eyes that were always half-closed suddenly widened!His crimson pupils contracted violently!In the perception of his Observation Haki...He saw the future!A brief future that was about to happen in a few seconds!"Wait... what is that girl Pudding doing?!""Why is she leaning into that man's arms with such a lovestruck face?!"Katakuri's heart, which was usually as calm as a still well, finally cracked open with a huge fissure.Not only that!He foresaw that the blond man, who was supposed to lower his head submissively and say his vows like a lamb to the slaughter.Not only did he not follow Mama's script.Instead, he performed an action sufficient to drive all of Totto Land into a frenzy!"Not good!"A drop of cold sweat instantly broke out on Katakuri's forehead.He didn't even have time to issue a warning to Big Mom!"This guy... is truly insane!!!"The scene returned to the altar.Facing the priest's question.Sanji did not answer immediately.He turned to face Pudding.His hands gently grasped Pudding's small hands, which were clad in white lace gloves.Pudding looked up.In her large eyes, tears shimmered, full of expectation.She was waiting.Waiting for this man to take her away from this dark, sunless hell.Sanji took a deep breath.Then.He suddenly pulled Pudding's slender, soft waist.Bringing her whole person dominantly into his arms!"Ah!"Pudding let out a short cry of surprise.Her small face instantly turned as red as a ripe apple, and her mind went blank.This action.Left everyone below the stage stunned."Oh ho? This kid is quite impatient!"Morgans cheered excitedly from the side.Big Mom was also taken aback, then let out an even more piercing, wild laugh."Ma-ma-ma-ma! What a passionate young man! I like it!"Just when everyone thought Sanji was just overcome with emotion and wanted to kiss the bride early.Sanji suddenly looked up.His gaze passed through the layered crowds.And pierced straight toward the arrogant Four Emperor on the high platform, Big Mom!On that handsome face.Where was there any trace of submissiveness or fear?All that remained was the bone-deep, wild defiance belonging to the wings of the Pirate King!"I do!"Sanji's voice, wrapped in powerful Armament Haki, was like rolling thunder, exploding above the entire venue!It even directly shattered the melodious wedding march!Before the smile on Big Mom's face could fully bloom.Sanji's next sentence.Made the air in the entire venue instantly as silent as a graveyard!"I do...""Take this silly girl...""And leave your disgusting hell filled with hypocrisy and conspiracy forever!!!""Boom—!!!"As soon as these words were spoken.Judge below the stage widened his eyes in shock."What kind of madness is this rebellious son having?! Does he want to get us all killed?!"Morgans was so shocked his jaw nearly hit the ground, and the camera in his hand fell with a 'clatter', shattering into pieces."Big... Big news! The world is about to change!!!"On the main seat.The wild laugh on Big Mom's face completely froze.That originally greedy gaze turned into endless rage and gloom in an instant.The surrounding sky seemed to feel the extreme anger of the Four Emperor.The previously clear sky.Was suddenly covered in dark clouds, with lightning and thunder! Violent winds howled!And in the center of the sky-filling storm.Sanji held Pudding tightly, whose face was flushed with happiness and who had completely blanked out.A cigarette, lit at some point, dangled from his mouth.Under his golden bangs, those blue eyes coldly swept across the Charlotte Family army that was instantly erupting and ready to move.He exhaled a thick white smoke ring.Although he would definitely be scolded by Nami-chan while having his ears pulled afterward.In this moment!He issued his final declaration as the black leg chef of the Straw Hat crew:"Whoever dares to stop me from taking my bride...""Today, I will kick him into the lowest quality meat paste!!!"
Chapter 475: Bloody Tea Party (IV) — Conqueror's Clash!Meanwhile.Deep within the Whole Cake Chateau.In the dim corridor, Chess Soldiers lay scattered across the floor, their eyes rolled back in unconsciousness."Phew..."Jinbe wiped the sweat from his forehead."Big Mom's military strength is truly a headache-inducing amount."Behind him.Brook skillfully sheathed his soul solid cane sword back into the walking stick, ghost fire flickering within his hollow eye sockets."Yohohoho! It's all thanks to Boss Jinbe ruthlessly clearing the path ahead!""That Minister with three arms earlier almost forcibly disassembled my bones~!"Jinbe was speechless; he really had no temper when it came to this skeleton brother.The two quickened their pace and arrived before a massive metal door.This was the secret vault where Big Mom kept her most core treasures!"Step back a bit, Brother Brook."Jinbe took a deep breath, his massive frame stepping forward.With legs slightly bent, he took a standard Fish-Man Karate starting stance.His deep blue muscles bulged suddenly, and he even manipulated the moisture in the surrounding air."Five Thousand Tile True Punch!"A thunderous boom echoed!!!That heavy metal door, reputed to withstand continuous cannon fire, was directly blown to smithereens by the terrifying water shockwave!Even the alarm den den mushi on the door didn't have time to scream before being knocked unconscious by the intense airflow.The two walked inside with total audacity.The vault was glittering with gold, filled with countless gold and silver treasures, as well as precious antiques.But their gaze didn't linger for a second; their eyes immediately locked onto the very back of the vault.A massive dark red stone tablet, radiating a mysterious aura, stood there quietly!A red Road Poneglyph!Found it!!!"Yohohoho! This really was easier than expected!!!"Brook was so excited he almost broke into a tap dance on the spot.He immediately pulled out the pre-prepared rubbing paper and special ink from his inner suit pocket.Relying on his light weight, he climbed the stone tablet like a spider, his hands and feet nimbly beginning to smear and press.This was a key item concerning whether Luffycould become the Pirate King; he didn't dare be the slightest bit careless.In less than five minutes.A perfectly replicated rubbing of the red poneglyph was fresh out of the oven!Brook carefully folded the rubbing into a small square.And then...With a crisp "clack" sound.He actually skillfully flipped open his own skull!He stuffed the precious rubbing, along with some small items Nami had previously entrusted to him, all into his empty skull.Then with a "snap," he clicked his skull cap back into place, fitting it perfectly."Perfect!"Brook patted his head and gave a thumbs up."Hidden here, even if Big Mom herself comes to search me, she'll never find it!""This is the ultimate natural safe! Though there aren't even any brains inside, yohohoho!"Jinbe's eyes and the corners of his mouth twitched in unison.Although the scene was somewhat bizarre... to be fair, this was indeed the most secure method!"Great job!"Jinbe grinned, his honest whale shark face full of gratified pride."Since the most important objective has been successfully handled.""Then we withdraw immediately! We'll go rendezvous with Nami-san and the others; we can't hold Sanji-kun back!"The two had no lingering desire for the treasure; they turned and left, quickly disappearing into the intricate castle tunnels....Meanwhile.The view returns to the open-air venue on the top floor of the Whole Cake Chateau.The atmosphere at the scene had already frozen to the breaking point!Everyone present was completely stunned by this sudden turn of events!The air seemed to stop moving; everyone held their breath, not daring to make a sound."Is... is this kid crazy?!?!"Judge's eyes were nearly bulging out of his head.His meticulously planned alliance! His ultimate dream of dominating the North Blue!It was just about to succeed!Yet it was kicked into pieces by this useless son he had always looked down upon?!"Rebellious son! Do you have any idea who you are talking to?!"Judge trembled with rage, his vision going dark, nearly suffering a brain hemorrhage on the spot.And on the main seat of the high platform.Big Mom's face was turning from a comical pink to a terrifying purplish-black at a visible rate!The veins on her forehead were bulging out like earthworms!"What... did you... just say?"Big Mom's voice was low, as if drifting out from the eighteenth level of hell.She stared fixedly at Pudding, who was being shielded in Sanji's arms, and then at Sanji's arrogant and unruly handsome face."My perfect alliance...""The cloning technology I've tried everything to get...""And that peerless wedding cake that was about to reach my mouth!!!""You actually let this damn blond brat ruin it all!!!""Unforgivable!!!""BOOM—!!!"Accompanied by Big Mom's completely broken-down roar!A surge of dark red Haki, so thick it almost became physical, instantly erupted from her mountain-like body... and surged out!Conqueror's Haki!An invincible pressure belonging to the level of the Four Emperors!In an instant!Gales rose from the ground, and the expensive tables and chairs of the entire venue were sent flying through the air!Those Homies servants and low-level soldiers standing closer didn't even have time to scream before their eyes rolled back and they collapsed, foaming at the mouth, fainting on the spot!Even those prominent Emperors of the Underworld turned pale with fright, clinging to pillars and scrambling to hide at the edges, barely managing not to be blown away by this terrifying storm!"What... what terrifying pressure..."Pudding was directly enveloped by this Haoshoku.As Big Mom's biological daughter, she knew better than anyone present how terrifying this power was!Her small face instantly lost all color, her body shaking like a leaf in the wind.Even breathing became difficult, and large tears couldn't stop falling."It's over... Sanji-san... we're going to be killed..."Pudding closed her eyes in despair.Before such a monster, any resistance was a waste of effort.However.The imagined pain of being crushed did not come.A firm and powerful warm arm pulled her waist even tighter.Pudding opened her eyes in astonishment and looked up.She saw Sanji with one hand still in his pocket, the cigarette still between his lips.His upright frame was like an immovable mountain at this moment, blocking all the terrifying storms and pressure completely for her!"Don't be afraid, Pudding-chan."Sanji exhaled a puff of white smoke, his azure eyes coldly staring at the enraged Big Mom on the platform."As long as I'm here, no one will touch a single hair on your head today!"Hearing these words.Pudding's heart skipped a beat.In this man's arms, she actually felt an absolute sense of security that made her incredibly at ease, something she had never experienced in these twenty years.And Sanji at this time.Looking at Big Mom's arrogant and ugly face.Deep in his heart, an unprecedented, violent rage surged!He recalled Nami's worried tone over the den den mushi.He recalled the tragic encounter of this girl in his arms, who had been treated as a monster and a tool by her own mother for twenty years.To protect the lady he loved!To uphold the Straw Hat crew's prideful conviction of never bowing to anyone!And to completely shatter this hypocritical and nauseating hell!In Sanji's heart, a certain shackle that had been suppressed for a long time snapped completely at this moment!"Don't take yourself too seriously, old hag!!!"Sanji threw back his head and let out a roar that shook the heavens!In those azure eyes, a divine light of extreme intensity suddenly burst forth!The next second!"WONG—!!!"A violent surge of golden-blue Haki exploded from Sanji's body without any warning!As soon as this Haki appeared, it directly transformed into a visible golden gale!Like an unsheathed divine sword, it dominantly repelled all the approaching dark red lightning!The entire venue was once again as if struck by lightning!"What... what kind of energy is that?!""...Could it be...""Conqueror's?! How is that possible! This cookactually awakened Conqueror's Haki too?!"Morgans, who was just scurrying for cover, didn't even care about his life now!...His two wings frantically searched for a spare camera, his feathers standing on end!Big news!This was absolutely earth-shattering big news that could be recorded in history!The cook of the Straw Hat crew actually possessed the "qualities of a king" that only appears once in a million people!At the Germa seats not far away.Judge was completely dumbfounded, staring fixedly at the familiar back that was erupting with earth-shattering Haki."Impossible... this is absolutely impossible...""That failure without any modified genes... that weak brat who didn't even dare to kill a mouse as a child...""How could he possibly possess Conqueror's Haki???!!!"Judge's proud scientific worldview was completely shattered into dust at this moment!And beside him, Reiju quietly watched her younger brother's grand silhouette.In those eyes that were originally hollow and spiritless, a brilliant light finally lit up.Her beautiful lips slowly curled into a proud and gratified smile."You really have... grown into a remarkable man, Sanji."In mid-air!Big Mom's world-destroying dark red Conqueror's Haki.And Sanji's newly awakened golden-blue Conqueror's Haki, which was exceptionally violent due to extreme anger and a strong desire to protect.Like two prehistoric beasts caught in a frenzy, they slammed into each other ruthlessly!"Zizizi—!!!"The piercing sonic boom made eardrums ache, and the ear-grating friction echoed through the clouds!The two extreme Hakis frantically strangled and devoured each other in the air, triggering a series of airwave explosions!Immediately following!"CRACK—!!!"A terrifying crash like the sky and earth splitting apart was heard!Under the gaze of everyone, whose hearts were nearly bursting with fear!Above Cake Island, the thick black clouds that had accumulated due to Big Mom's rage...Actually, under the terrifying collision of these two Conqueror's Hakis!From the very center, they were forcibly...Torn in half!!!Bright sunlight followed that massive rift spanning the sky, like the light of a god, sprinkling down again on this chaotic venue!Splitting the sky!!!The legendary peerless spectacle that only occurs when the top emperors of this sea clash!Everyone at the scene was dumbstruck!Not even the sound of swallowing saliva dared to be made!At the highest point, a bean-sized drop of cold sweat finally slid down Charlotte Katakuri's forehead.His proud Observation Haki, which could see into the future, was declared completely invalid at this moment.Because the blond man before his eyes...Was not just a cook.But a...True King who had just awakened in this place!!!