just received news that the Billionaires' ship sent to Nanohana was attacked by unknown persons and completely wiped out," Nico Robin said calmly as she approached. "I'm currently sending people to track down the culprit."At the same time, she was wondering in her heart: could it have been done by the Straw Hat boy and his crew?After all, she had received some interesting news~"There are as many replacements for the Billionairesas needed; they are nothing more than a drop of water falling into the desert.""It won't have any impact on my plan."In Crocodile's view, that group of trash was just cannon fodder he had casually gathered.Weren't there as many of such existences as one could want?After all, in a real battle, they wouldn't be of any use.However..."Someone actually dares to oppose me," Crocodilesaid, narrowing his eyes. "No matter who it is, crush them for me."At this critical juncture, he didn't want anything unexpected to happen."Understood," Nico Robin said calmly. "To establish contact, I have already sent the Neck-scarf Runnersover there.""Good work.""It's my duty," Nico Robin smiled, then walked outside. "Since there's nothing else for me, I'll go get busy.""Fine."The two of them tacitly dropped the subject. Now that the plan had reached its final step, the time to drop all pretenses was not far off.Crocodile would never allow Nico Robin to live; Nico Robin was very clear about this.But it didn't matter, as long as she could see the poneglyph.Besides~She didn't necessarily have to tell Crocodile the news about Pluton, did she?...Glancing at Nico Robin's departing back, Crocodilenarrowed his eyes.I hope you don't cause trouble for me.Otherwise, I'll let you know that even death is a luxury.As for that Marine who recently appeared in the city.Crocodile thought for a moment and walked toward someone else. "Better find an opportunity to kill him."If he were to enter the Royal Capital, he might discover the truth.Crocodile didn't want the news of his usurpation to appear on Fleet Admiral Sengoku's desk.Otherwise, what awaited him would definitely be an attack from a Marine Admiral!...After sailing for quite a long time, the going merryfinally arrived at the coast of Yuba."Alright, we've landed!" Luffy shouted with a wave of his hand. "Target: Yuba! Let's go!""Here, these are everyone's rations. Make sure you have them," Sanji said as he handed each person their share. "You must keep them safe."After all, there are no supplies in the desert.Everyone nodded; they also understood the gravity of the situation."Is it all on foot from here?" Nami sighed, looking at the distant desert. "I wonder how hard it will be...""There's no need to walk," Ben said, walking out of the cabin. "When I'm around, do you really think we need to walk?"He then took a Motorhome from his pocket and threw it onto the ground in the distance."This is a multi-functional Motorhome I researched and developed during this time; it's fully equipped," Ben said proudly. "We can travel comfortably inside the cabin.""Yeah, the kind where you eat watermelon and drink cold beverages.""By the way, it also has functions like brief low-altitude flight."As a Scientist, wasn't making himself comfortable a simple matter?Usopp looked at Ben, then at the rice balls in his backpack, and suddenly they didn't seem so appealing anymore."Th-this is...?" Ace was a bit dumbfounded. He pulled a giant vehicle out of his pocket?Spatial abilities could be explained by a Devil Fruit Ability, but what was with this car?It looks so Advanced."Oh, I forgot to mention.""Ben is a Scientist," Luffy introduced with a proud look. "He can create all sorts of miraculous things."Being able to find a partner like Ben was something Luffy was very proud of."I-is that so?" Ace took a deep breath and looked at Luffy. "You're really lucky, kid."As a member of the Whitebeard Pirates entrenched in the New World, he knew very well how rare such talent was.They are basically impossible to find!Let alone such high-end scientific talent?After a moment of silence, Ace spoke up, "Luffy, why don't you reconsider my previous proposal?""What proposal?""Joining the Whitebeard Pirates~" As Ace spoke, his gaze was fixed on Ben; his meaning couldn't be more obvious."No way!" Luffy refused. "I don't want to join anyone else's command!"He then stepped in front of Ben, blocking Ace's gaze, and said, "Neither will Ben!"What a pity; it would be great if he joined the Whitebeard Pirates.After all, their pirate crew really lacked such talent."Hey, there seems to be something underwater!" Zoro, who was dropping the anchor, shouted. "Come over here!"The others were taken aback upon hearing this. Could it be an enemy?Chapter 72: The City Actually Has a Guardian Spirit?!Looking at the large number of green turtles emerging from underwater, Zoro was a bit dumbfounded. "What the heck, turtles?""These are turtles, right...?"But why are these turtles so strange? They have no legs on their lower bodies."Aren't these Kung Fu Manatees!" Vivi looked at the little guys in surprise. "What are they doing..."Could it be that they want to trade blows with us?"If you want to come ashore, try to defeat me!" Chopper, standing on the ship's railing, translated. "If you don't dare, then go back to the other side, cowards!""That's what it said..."Hearing Chopper's explanation, Usopp was immediately displeased. "Cowards?""Since you put it that way, I can't stay silent.""I'm going in!"These are just a bunch of weak-looking turtles; they couldn't possibly be a match for him!Watching Usopp jump down, Vivi was a bit dumbfounded. "Wait, Usopp!""You're no match for them..."Just as Vivi finished speaking, Usopp was already lying on the ground.Ben covered his face with his hand. "What's the rush?"The Kung Fu Manatees are actually very strong. If I remember correctly, in the Late Stage, the leader of the Kung Fu Manatees even went to the New Worldand learned Armament Haki.It almost beat Luffy to death."Ah, we have a victory on our side too," Choppersaid, looking at the Kung Fu Manatee that Luffy had knocked down."He won?" Vivi was stunned for a moment, then her expression stiffened. "Even winning is a problem..."Looking at the Kung Fu Manatee standing respectfully before Luffy, Vivi sighed. "The losing side must take the winner as their master; that's the rule of the Kung Fu Manatees.""Quite the Martial Arts Faction," Zoro looked at the Kung Fu Manatees in the distance with surprise. "Does such a race actually exist in this world?""You seem to be too late," Ben pointed at Luffy, who was already surrounded by the Kung Fu Manatees. "He's already taken on a bunch of Disciples."Watching Luffy already interacting with the Kung Fu Manatees, the entire Straw Hat Pirates covered their faces.Why weren't they surprised at all?"Yosh!" Luffy waved his hand. "Let's go, head for Yuba!""Head for what?!" Ben rushed to Luffy's side and punched him hard on the head. "They are Marinecreatures! Are you planning to let them bake to death in the desert?!"Most importantly, his Motorhome couldn't possibly fit so many Kung Fu Manatees.They would have to run along outside, but in that case, they wouldn't be able to stand it at all.They'll get dehydrated after a while, okay? The consequence of dehydration is death!However, after seeing Luffy get knocked down by Ben, the Kung Fu Manatees turned to look at Benwith stars in their eyes."Ah, someone who can defeat the master must be even stronger!" Chopper translated. "But they don't seem to have the intention of taking Ben as their master.""Hmm...""Is it because it wasn't Ben who defeated them?" Zoro was a bit surprised. "It certainly fits the style of a Martial Arts Faction.""But those eyes...""I can't stand those eyes either," Ben said helplessly.Damn, why do these little guys feel a bit cute?But since they seem to admire him, things will be easier to handle.
Thinking of this, Ben coughed lightly and said, "Little guys, we can't take you to where we are going. After all, you are marine creatures, and you would definitely be sun-dried to death on land.""But now I have a more important task for you!"The Kung Fu Manatee, originally listless from being rejected, suddenly perked up and looked at Ben with expectation."Ahem.""See this ship?" Ben pointed to the pirate ship nearby and said, "Your task is to guard this pirate ship well. You must absolutely not let anyone else harm it, understand!"He had originally intended to put them in his pocket and take them away, but the arrival of these little guys made Ben change his mind.This is also quite good, isn't it?The lead Kung Fu Manatee pondered this upon hearing it and finally nodded.Immediately, it began to dance with joy."Hey, Chopper, what is he saying?""He says he will definitely complete the Master's Master's task." After finishing, Chopper looked a bit surprised. "Master's Master?""Have you forgotten the rules of the Kung Fu Manatee?" Sanji took a puff of his cigarette and said, "The Master's Master refers to Ben."Tsk, if he had known, he would have gone down and kicked Luffy.These little guys are quite interesting.After saying goodbye to the Kung Fu Manatee, Luffysaid with a face full of regret, "They clearly wanted to come along, why not let them join us?"They were so interesting..."Do you even understand the situation, you idiot?" Ben said irritably. "Do you know how hot it is in the desert?""Never mind them, even us humans might get heatstroke to death, let alone marine creatures like them?!""If I hadn't given them a task, they would probably have followed us.""Exactly, they kept saying they wanted to come along," Chopper added from the side, "with very strong intent."Looking at Luffy, who looked like a wilted eggplant, Ace laughed wickedly, "Hahaha.""That's really tough. Looking at it this way, Luffymust have caused you a lot of trouble along the way.""Yeah~" X6The six of them all sighed, but what else could they do? Who told them Luffy is their Captain?They couldn't just ignore this jerk, could they?"It is truly Luffy's greatest happiness to have a group of companions like you." Ace smiled, feeling reassured at the same time.Although Luffy is very unreliable, at the very least he has a group of reliable companions, and that is enough."Alright, stop talking nonsense and get in the car quickly," Ben said irritably. "If you keep dawdling, you can walk there yourselves."He wouldn't come to such a hot desert again if there was no reason to.He had broken into a sweat after just this short time."Oh, get in the car!""Quick, quick, quick.""Hey, Ben, where are the drinks?!""They are in the fridge, the white one on the right side," said Ben, sitting in the driver's seat. "There is fruit in the box on the right side. I bought it in Nanohana not long ago."Hmm, come to think of it, he was quite farsighted.He then handed a glass of papaya juice to Nami, who was sitting in the passenger seat, saying, "Here, drink some to quench your thirst.""Mm." Nami didn't think much of it, took it, and took a sip. "It's fortunate that you're here..."If it weren't for Ben, she couldn't imagine what she would look like after walking in the desert for so long."Rest a bit, we'll be there soon.""Okay."Comfort gives people the illusion that time passes quickly, and the RV driven by Ben soon arrived at a city.If it could still be called a city."Is this Yuba?" Ben got out of the car, looked into the distance, and asked with some confusion, "Why has it become ruins?"The others noticed the car had stopped and also got out."This is not Yuba, this is Erumalu," Vivi said with a complex expression. "A city once known as the City of Greenery.""Although it didn't rain very often, people would store it, and life was decent.""Until three years ago, it never rained here again."Vivi sighed. The destruction of this city made her heart ache."It's because of Dance Powder, right?" Ben said calmly."How do you know?" Vivi looked at Ben with some surprise. Why would someone like him from the open sea know about this?"What's so strange about that?" Ben waved his hand. "Although this kind of thing is strictly prohibited by the World Government, that doesn't mean it doesn't exist.""Besides, not long ago, Luffy and I happened to meet someone who had quite a lot of Dance Powder.""But I took it all away."Ben patted his pocket. "It's all here."Vivi's expression changed instantly. "Who is that person?""Heh, he's just a piece of scum who wanted to profit from a national disaster," Ben sneered. "Don't worry about it, just a small fry.""I know what you want to say, but unfortunately, that wasn't someone from Baroque Works.""I see..." Vivi sighed. She had originally thought she had caught the tail of Baroque Works doing bad things."I think I understand." Ben looked at Vivi's expression and suddenly understood something. "Is it because your father used Dance Powder?""How could my father possibly use this!" Vivi said excitedly. "He would absolutely never do that!""No, I mean, could it be that someone used your father's face to issue an order?" Ben said with certainty. "You haven't forgotten one thing, have you? Mr. 2 could copy other people's faces.""Maybe it was him..."Vivi's face turned pale instantly, and she collapsed onto the ground. "That's it, it must be that.""No wonder..."No wonder someone later framed her father for this, and her father didn't even know about it.Thinking about it this way, even if it wasn't exactly what Ben said, it was still a deliberate frame-up by them.This is probably the reason why the 300,000 Royal Army soldiers defected..."Wait, what are you guys talking about?" Usoppasked, full of confusion. "What exactly is Dance Powder?""It's something that can make it rain when used.""Isn't that a good thing?" Usopp was speechless. "Isn't this a country that lacks rain?""If only it were that simple," Ben said irritably. "Let me put it this way.""If a country uses Dance Powder, although it will cause rain, the countries downstream will suffer from drought.""They might not see a drop of rain for many years.""And Alabasta is such a large kingdom, if it is used in one city, other cities will..."Now everyone understood; this wasn't a lifeline, but a deadly poison!"No wonder Vivi's father lost the hearts of the people," Sanji sighed. "That really is a terrible start."They might be enemies of the entire country now."I have a question," Usopp asked, standing by a rock with curiosity. "Since this place is so close to the sea, why not divert the water?""There's no way. The canal that diverted water from the Sandora River into the city has been destroyed by someone, so the water can't be brought in..." Vivisighed. "Looking at it now, it was most likely done by Crocodile." Vivi's face turned pale. "What a vicious method."Looking at Vivi's pale face, Ben thought for a moment and comforted her, "Don't worry, Vivi.""In my opinion, the drought problem in this country can be easily solved.""The main problem right now is Crocodile. If we don't defeat him, no amount of water will be able to withstand his Devil Fruit ability."With one sandstorm, he could drain an entire lake.So defeating the enemy is the priority!"That's right," Luffy said, showing his big white teeth. "Leave Crocodile to me!""Crocodile is a Logia user, Luffy, you..." Ace's words were interrupted by Luffy before he could finish. "Ben will help me, right!""Mm." Ben nodded, then took a small bottle from his pocket, poured out two small balls, and handed them to Luffy. "After you meet Crocodile, eat this, and you will be able to hit his body.""Oh?" Ace asked, looking at the things in Ben's hands with surprise. "What is this?""Ah, this is called a Surface-Flowing Liquid Ball," Ben said, full of pride as he introduced his invention. "As long as you eat it, a layer of flowing water will form on the surface of your body, which will allow you to hit Crocodile, who ate the suna suna no mi."Ace's eyes flickered upon hearing this. "Sand clumps when it encounters water?"A very clever idea. In that case, it is indeed possible to hit Crocodile's body.Looking at it this way, Luffy has a high chance of winning.Thinking of this, Ace gave up the idea of accompanying Luffy."This should also be effective against me, right?""Uh, not entirely sure," Ben said, looking Ace up and down. "But the probability is quite high."Water counters fire, so the attack should be effective."Interesting invention, hahaha." Ace laughed and patted Ben on the shoulder. "If you have the chance in the future, you must come visit the Whitebeard Pirates."Seeing that Luffy intended to come over and talk about it, Ace added, "Don't worry, Luffy, I won't steal your crewmate."This made Luffy give up the idea of coming over to spar.
that moment, an eerie sound suddenly came from the distance, attracting everyone's attention."What is that?!" Usopp said with a face full of fear. "Is it haunted?""It's just the sound of the wind, there's no haunting," Ben said exasperatedly. "Can you stop scaring yourself all day long?"Could it be that he was training himself?So that when he actually encountered a ghost, he wouldn't be afraid?"I seem to hear Erumalu crying..." Listening to the eerie wind, Vivi's heart trembled along with it.This city is crying!"Just what has this city been through!" Vivi's tears welled up in her eyes.The pressure on her was far too great; she was merely a nineteen-year-old child!"It's here!" Ben looked at the sandstorm suddenly forming in the distance and immediately summoned his wild wolf armor. "wild wolf no. 1, activate defense mode!""Defense mode activated!""Energy Protection Shield deployed!" A mechanical voice rang out, and a massive energy shield rose in front of everyone, blocking the storm."It's a good thing we have Ben's invention...""It's okay now."Different from his companions' reactions, Luffysuddenly heard a strange sound, as if...as if someone were crying."Hey, did you guys hear someone crying?""Are you talking nonsense? No one is crying," Usoppsaid, speechless. "That's just Vivi's feeling."'No...' Ben glanced at Luffy. Although it wasn't the first time he'd seen it, he was still somewhat shocked.Could Luffy's Voice of All Things already hear the city's cries?Or rather...Does this city have a Guardian Spirit?"Then you probably misheard," the others didn't pay much attention. Once the storm had completely vanished, Nami reached out to Vivi, who was sitting on the ground. "Let's go. No matter how many difficulties lie ahead, we will help you."Nami certainly knew how powerful the enemy was, but would she shrink back?Would the Straw Hat Pirates shrink back?No!Absolutely not!Feeling Nami's burning emotion, Vivi grit her teeth, grabbed Nami's hand, and stood up. "Let's go, to Yuba!""The Rebel Army is most likely at that location right now.""Get in, get in." Ben waved his hand, signaling everyone to hurry into the vehicle.After everyone had rushed into the RV, Ben stowed away the wild wolf armor, looked back at Erumalu, and said softly, "Rest assured, this country will be saved soon."Then, without looking back, he entered the driver's cabin and drove away.A moment later, the sound of the wind echoed through the city once again.However, this time it was no longer filled with desolation; instead, it carried a special scent.That scent was named...Hope!Chapter 73: Constant Body Temperature Potion - Chopper is Saved~In the evening, when it was time to eat, Benactivated the Multi-functional RV's autopilot feature.Just as he was about to open the door behind the driver's cabin to go to the back, he heard Nami say, "Ben, something's not right in the distance."Ben turned his head to look upon hearing this and was suddenly dumbfounded. "Why is there another sandstorm?"Could it be that Crocodile released it?Does this guy have nothing better to do?"Stop advancing, deploy the Anchoring Mechanical Claws.""Activate energy shield!""Hum~"As Ben's words fell, the RV slowly came to a halt while retracting its wheels. In their place, several massive mechanical claws stabbed into the dunes, plunging deep until they gripped the underground bedrock!Simultaneously, a hatch opened on the roof, and a large number of flying devices flew out, deploying around the RV.Interacting with each other, an azure energy shield soon appeared!The energy shield made a sizzling 'zzzzt' sound, exuding a powerful Aura.After all this was done, the sandstorm rushed over, slamming violently against the energy shield and making a piercing sound.Ben's brow furrowed. "Activate Shielding Mode."With that, the world instantly became quiet."Let's go," Ben glanced at Nami and said. "It's uncertain when the sandstorm will vanish. Let's go to the back and eat first.""Yeah." Nami nodded, feeling fortunate that they could hide inside.If they were outside, they would most likely be blown away by the sandstorm.Once separated, the consequences would be unimaginable."What happened?" Seeing Ben come over, Choppersaid somewhat fearfully, "What was that piercing sound just now?""Ah, it's just a sandstorm," Ben waved his hand calmly, then looked at Sanji. "Sanji, when is the meal ready?""Soon," Sanji, who was stir-frying, said without looking back. "Just sit there and wait."The massive RV was very well-equipped with everything, so it was very convenient for him to use."Is it really okay?" A trace of worry appeared on Vivi's face. "That is a sandstorm, after all..."Ben had closed the windows of the rear cabin not long ago, so they couldn't see the situation outside at all."It's just a mere sandstorm," Ben waved his hand. "Besides, do you feel any jolting right now?""No.""There you go then." Ben pointed downward. "The RV is firmly anchored to the ground right now. Forget a sandstorm, even a typhoon couldn't blow us away."This girl underestimated his inventions too much."I've realized that I don't seem suited for surviving in the desert," Chopper said, clutching his juice. "The temperature outside is too hot; I can't really stand it..."If it weren't for Ben's RV, he simply couldn't imagine how he would cross this desert.Would he die of heat on the peninsula?"After all, you were born on Winter Island~" Namismiled and stroked Chopper's little head. "It's normal that you can't stand it.""Hey, Ben, do you have anything that can help Chopper maintain his body temperature?""Something to maintain body temperature?" Benwas stunned for a moment, then rummaged through his pockets. "Oh, I actually do.""Ta-da!""Constant Body Temperature Potion!" Ben handed the small bottle to Chopper and said, "I forgot about it since you didn't mention it.""I had considered that Chopper might not be able to stand it before, so I researched this thing.""Chopper, drink this.""You won't be affected by high temperatures for the next month."The main function of this item was to stabilize Chopper's body temperature at a value that was most comfortable for him; no matter how the external temperature changed, it wouldn't affect his body."This..." Usopp looked at the item in Ben's hand, somewhat dumbfounded. "Is this scientific?"Wasn't Ben a Scientist?But why did this thing feel so unscientific?"Is being scientific important?" Seeing Chopper drink the potion, Ben glanced at Usopp and said, "As long as it works, that's enough.""Wow!" Chopper said with a look of surprise, "I feel so comfortable now.""It's as if...""It's as if I've returned to Winter Island!"This feeling is just too great!"Thank you, Ben."Ben waved his hand, indicating it was a minor matter."We're all partners."Since Dr. Kureha entrusted you to us, then we must take good care of you, little guy.However, Ben didn't say the words out loud; he didn't want Chopper to have any psychological burden.After eating and drinking their fill, Ben took Namiback to the front."Let's sleep," Ben said, looking at the raging wind outside. "The sandstorm probably won't end tonight.""We'll continue the journey tomorrow."He then pressed a button, and the two seats in the driver's cabin turned into two beds."Okay." Nami wasn't fussy; she hugged the pillow Ben handed her and fell into a dreamland.As for those bastards in the back?Well, each had a small folding cot, the kind that popped out from the wall in a bunk-bed style.They could sleep anyway.
Ben smiled, admiring Nami's profile for a while before turning his gaze to the sandstorm in the distance.Next would be the battle with Crocodile.He hoped that guy wouldn't disappoint him...."Hmm?""Is it morning already?" Nami opened her eyes and looked outside in confusion. "The sandstorm has disappeared.""Yeah." Ben nodded, then handed Nami a breakfast and said, "Eat.""We should reach Yuba in about half a day."This speed was quite fast; they were arriving almost more than a day ahead of schedule!Just then, the car suddenly jolted, and a sensation of falling came over them.Ben's pupils constricted. "What's the situation?""Activate flight mode!""flight mode activated." A large amount of jet flames suddenly burst from the bottom of the multi-functional RV, lifting it up and slowly moving it to the distance."What's wrong?" Nami looked at Ben with uncertainty. "Is there an enemy?""No." Ben shook his head. After stopping the car, he opened the door and walked out. "Wait in the car, I'll go out and take a look."Once outside, he took out the wild wolf armor and put it on."This is..." Looking at the huge hole in front of him, a hint of doubt appeared in Ben's eyes, then his spirit jolted. "Could it be the poneglyph in the desert?!"If he remembered correctly, Luffy, Zoro, and the others did encounter a poneglyph.He originally thought they wouldn't come across it, but unexpectedly..."What's wrong?" Luffy and the others also jumped off the car and walked to Ben's side, asking in confusion, "What is this? Did you blow it up?""Am I that bored?" Ben rolled his eyes. Was he so full that he had nothing better to do than blow up sand for fun?"I'll go down and check it out.""Take me with you!" Luffy immediately flopped onto the wild wolf armor and said, "Let's go, let's go."Ben's mouth twitched. "This guy..."Forget it, taking him along didn't matter.Then, flames emerged from his feet, and he slowly descended into the pit."As expected, it's a poneglyph." Ben looked at the huge stone in front of him and immediately understood what it was."There's nothing here," Luffy said with little interest. "Is it just a trap?"He had originally thought there would be something fun down here.Ben ignored Luffy and narrowed his eyes at the poneglyph. "wild wolf no. 1, scan this poneglyphand record all the text and images.""Understood."Blue light shot from the eyes of the wild wolf armor, scanning the poneglyph thoroughly.Having finished everything, Ben nodded with satisfaction. "Analyze what the text on this says.""Understood, please wait a moment.""Data analysis in progress."A moment later, a passage appeared in Ben's field of vision."We have encountered an irresistible force; destruction is inevitable.""However, even if our civilization perishes, the Will of D will not be erased.""Sun God Nika will surely bring light to everyone again!""Last words of Boluda Aenisia."Seeing the end, Ben was silent for a moment, then glanced at Luffy, who was looking around."Sun God Nika, huh..."Fate is indeed interesting."Hey, Luffy, let's go.""Oh, coming." Luffy trotted over happily and said, "There's nothing in here. I don't know why you came down.""Then why did you still follow me?""Hahahaha, wasn't I curious about what was underground?""Me too."After flying back to the surface, Ben put away the wild wolf armor and said, "Let's go, it's time to set off.""What was down there?""A poneglyph.""A poneglyph?!" Ace's pupils shrank. "There's actually such a thing in this place?""Don't worry, it's not a red poneglyph." Ben waved his hand. "Aren't those four poneglyphs in the hands of those four people? There won't be any extras."Each of the Four Emperors had one; Ben knew this very well.Ace nodded. "That's true.""What is a poneglyph?" Usopp asked curiously from the side."A special kind of stone used to record a period of history." Ben said with some emotion. "I have to admire the wisdom of the ancients."Only this method could preserve the true history.Otherwise, it would definitely have been destroyed by people sent by Imu."Luffy, if you want to become the Pirate King, you must get the four red poneglyphs." Ben looked at Luffy and smiled. "They mark the route to Laugh Tale.""Is that so?!" Hearing Ben's words, Luffy smiled. "Then we must get them.""Something so important must be in the hands of strong people." Zoro's brow furrowed slightly. "Those are the keys to becoming the Pirate King!""Yes." Ben nodded, then glanced at Ace. "Ace's family, the Whitebeard Pirates, has one.""The rest are in the hands of the other three Four Emperors.""The Big Mom Pirates.""Kaido of the Beasts.""Red-Haired Shanks.""And if Luffy wants to become the Pirate King, he must defeat all four of them."This kind of thing couldn't be glossed over, even if they were very familiar."---Requesting Flowers---""Without defeating the opponent and gaining their recognition, one is not worthy of becoming the Pirate King!""Four Emperors?" Chopper heard this term for the first time. "What are the Four Emperors?""The Four Emperors who reign over the sea," Aceexplained from the side. "The four strongest great pirates in the New World.""Are they that powerful?""Of course!" Ace said with a proud face. "Pops is the strongest among them!"In Ace's view, the Whitebeard Pirates were definitely the most powerful existence among the Four Emperors!Ben glanced at Ace and sighed in his heart. After all, Whitebeard was old..."But with myself here, the element of time didn't seem unchangeable~"Usopp swallowed hard. "How strong is that?""Let me put it this way," Ben thought for a moment and said, "Luffy's bounty is 50 million Berries, right?""Ace's pops' bounty is 5,046,000,000 Berries."As soon as these words were spoken, the air suddenly became quiet.Their jaws dropped to the ground."5... 5... 5,046,000,000 Berries?!!" Usopp's voice became high-pitched. "Are you kidding me?!"What kind of concept was that?Equivalent to being as strong as a hundred Luffys?"What do you think the Four Emperors are?" Bensaid irritably. "Those are people with strength that can destroy heaven and earth.""Forget it, talking about these things is still too far away for us.""In short, if Luffy wants to become the Pirate King, he must defeat them.""Four Emperors?" Luffy laughed, laughing very happily. "Don't worry, I will definitely defeat them!""I'm going to be the Pirate King!""..."So what if they're the Four Emperors?He would definitely not lose!"Sounds interesting~" Zoro showed a fierce grin. "The subordinates of the Four Emperors should have powerful swordsmen. I hope they don't disappoint me."Sanji's attitude was also clear: fight!"You guys are hopeless..." Nami grabbed the corner of Ben's clothes tremblingly, the word 'fear' written all over her face."Don't worry, it's fine." Ben patted Nami's shoulder, signaling her to stay calm. "The days of fighting them are still a long way off."At least they wouldn't face off in the short term.This finally put Nami at ease.
Hahahahaha, you guys are really interesting." Acelaughed. "Luffy, if you want to defeat the Old Man, you're not strong enough yet.""You have to work harder.""Yeah!" Luffy nodded. "I will definitely defeat him and become the Pirate King!"The word 'retreat' didn't exist in Luffy's dictionary!"Alright, that's all too far off." Ben waved his hand. "Let's get on the carriage and go.""We're about to reach Yuba. Everyone, prepare for battle.""Oh!"..."This is Yuba?!" Looking at the city that resembled ruins, Nami and the others were a bit dumbfounded. "There's no way there are enemies in this place."Who would stay in a pile of ruins?Ace's brow furrowed. "It seems that guy won't be here."Are we too late?Sighing in his heart, Ace looked at Luffy beside him and said, "Hey, Luffy, take this.""What's this?" Taking the paper Ace handed over, Luffy asked with some confusion."It's a vivre card, isn't it?" Ben glanced at the item in Luffy's hand and said, "A vivre card reflects its owner's status, and it can also be used to find the other person.""Yes." Ace nodded. "This is my vivre card. With this, we will meet again one day.""Are you leaving?""Yeah." Ace sighed. Although he was reluctant to leave a guy like Luffy, he had no choice; he had to go.After all, his purpose for coming here was to find Marshall D. Teach.Ben was silent for a moment, then sighed. "Ace, if things go wrong, run."Ace smiled and didn't answer. He waved his hand and walked in another direction.If he ran away, he wouldn't be Ace anymore."Don't worry, Ace is very strong!" Luffy was full of confidence in Ace. "That Michelle D. Ride or whatever is definitely no match for Ace!""It's Marshall D. Teach!" Ben was somewhat speechless. "Forget it, Ace should know what he's doing.""Let's go, let's head in and take a look." Benobserved the distant Yuba through his glasses and said, "There are still living people in there."Though it's just one person.Is it because they refuse to give up on this city?Commendable courage.Vivi's heart shook upon hearing this. There was actually someone left?She immediately rushed forward impatiently; she wanted to know exactly what had happened here!"Hey, wait a minute, Vivi!" Nami shouted while chasing from behind. "What if it's an enemy!""It can't be an enemy." Ben sighed. "In a place like this, besides some old people who refuse to give up..."Only they would be unwilling to give up this place and flee.Destroying a country, that guy Crocodile really deserves to die!At the same time, Crocodile also summoned all the Advanced Agents to move!Chapter 74: The Massive Mechanical Python!"The operation plan has been confirmed." Crocodileglanced indifferently at Nico Robin and said, "Have the personnel been arranged?""Yes, without the slightest neglect." Nico Robin said without looking back, "150 Billionaires are already on standby in Nanohana.""I have also recalled Mr. 2.""Since he doesn't seem to have caught Mr. 3 yet, the Advanced Agents will also assemble today.""The location is at the Spiders Cafe.""Ah, well done." Crocodile nodded appreciatively. In these matters, Nico Robin indeed handled things well.He basically didn't need to worry about anything to have everything resolved."At this time, they should be arriving one after another." Nico Robin said, glancing at the time.Crocodile nodded at those words, then thought for a moment and said, "By the way, have the people who took out the Billionaires before been found?""Not yet." Nico Robin shook her head."Is that so?" Crocodile looked at Nico Robin with a meaningful gaze and said, "I hope you aren't lying to me.""Ara, we've collaborated for so long, do you still not trust me?"Crocodile smiled. Does our relationship need more words?It's nothing more than mutual exploitation.Nico Robin smiled; such things were understood without being said."I have already sent Banchi to pick them up." Nico Robin said indifferently, "Perhaps it won't be long before they arrive at this city known as Rainbase.""Good, I understand." Crocodile stood up from the sofa and walked slowly outside. "Call them to see me when they arrive."Since the plan has reached the final step, it's also time for them to know who their boss is."Yes."Nico Robin narrowed her eyes as she watched Crocodile's departing back, wondering what she was thinking.Soon, all the Advanced Agents were in place, sitting in a meeting room, all anticipating their boss's arrival."I wonder what the boss looks like." Mr. 2 said with a look of expectation.Would he be an okama just like him?"Be patient, you'll know in a moment." Miss Doublefinger said, "The boss's partner just said he'll be here soon."To be honest, she also really wanted to know.Mr. 1 didn't say anything, but waited silently.If his boss's strength was too weak, then he would commit murder.The weak are not worthy of standing above him."You all seem to be in good spirits." Crocodile, who had appeared on a chair at some unknown time, said indifferently, "Alright, the plan is about to begin~"Looking at the suddenly appearing Crocodile, everyone was dumbfounded."What, our boss is actually a pirate?!" Mr. 2's face was full of astonishment."Crocodile..." Cold sweat dripped down Mr. 1's face. If it was him, he indeed was no match."It seems everyone is very clear about the boss's reputation in the outside world~" Nico Robin smiled."Clear or not, he's one of the Shichibukai..."What on earth was someone like that doing as their boss?Crocodile was very satisfied with this group's reaction, then smiled faintly. "Take a look at the mission sheets in front of you.""These are the tasks I have assigned to you. When they are completed, that will be when Alabasta falls completely into our hands!""At that time, this country will become our Utopia!""This is Baroque Works' greatest and final Operation Utopia!"Hearing this, everyone looked down and found that a piece of white paper had appeared in front of them at some unknown time.Opening it to take a look, their pupils suddenly constricted.Was the boss really playing such a big game?But it was interesting; if it could really be done, this country would indeed fall into their hands.Just then, Mr. 3 walked over from a distance. "I hope to pause this Operation Utopia.""Mr. 3??" Crocodile's brow furrowed. "Why are you appearing here?""Boss, I know my mission failed and I should be hunted by Mr. 2, but I have important intelligence to report.""Regarding Straw Hat and Princess Vivi!" He then mentioned the fact that they were still alive."What?!" Crocodile's face became somewhat ugly. They actually didn't die?!...Looking at the old man swinging a shovel in the pit, Ben was somewhat moved.Even under such circumstances, did this old man not give up hope?"Ah, travelers." Toto looked up at the people behind him and said, "I'm really sorry, this city has dried up.""But you should rest well; there are hotels everywhere here.""Those are the best places in this city."And the only places left to show."So, old man, do you know where the Rebel Armyis?" Luffy asked while picking his nose.Toto stopped his movements upon hearing this, turned back, and looked at them with sharp eyes. "What do you want with the Rebel Army?!""You're not thinking of joining the Rebel Army, are you!""Uh..." Vivi quickly waved her hand. "No, we don't have that intention.""Good that you don't." Toto snorted coldly and said, "Those fools are no longer here."As soon as these words came out, the Straw Hat Pirates were a bit dumbfounded. "They're gone?"Then what did they come all this way for?!"Since it stopped raining three years ago, the environment here began to deteriorate. The once-oasis disappeared and became what it is now.""Without the flow of supplies, there's no way to support the Rebel Army's long-term operations, so the Rebel Army moved their base to Katorea
Chapter 69"Katorea?!" Vivi was a bit stunned. Why would they be there?!"Where is that, Vivi?""Is Katorea near here?""No." Vivi sighed. "It's an oasis near Nanohana."Straw Hat Pirates:???"Then why on earth did we run all the way here?" Zoro scratched his head, sounding a bit irritated.Didn't we run all this way for nothing!Ben stroked his chin and thought, 'Is that how it is?'Forget it. Anyway, their ultimate goal is to take down that guy Crocodile. At the end of the day, the Rebel Army is just a bunch of poor souls.There's no point in killing them.Toto, who was digging a hole, stopped what he was doing upon hearing this. He walked up tremblingly and looked at Vivi with disbelief, saying, "Vivi, did you just call her Vivi?!"Is it really you?!Hearing this, Luffy rushed in front of Vivi with an anxious look and shouted, "Hey, old man, Vivi isn't a princess!"Hearing that, Zoro punched Luffy hard on the head and roared, "Shut up, you idiot!"Aren't you just burying your head in the sand!Toto ignored the others, walked up to Vivi, grabbed her shoulders, and asked, "You are Vivi, aren't you? I didn't expect you to still be alive.""That's wonderful." Tears welled up in Toto's eyes. "It's me. Don't you recognize me?""It's no wonder, since I've lost a bit of weight."Vivi was stunned for a moment, then a shadow appeared in her mind—a chubby shadow."Uncle Toto?!" Vivi was filled with disbelief. Uncle Toto's current weight looked like it wasn't even half of what it used to be!"It's me.""Vivi, I have always believed that the King would never do such a thing.""I know his character. He would never do anything to betray his country, right!"Looking at the old man weeping before her, Vivi felt immense pain, but at the same time, she felt fortunate.Because there were still people in this country willing to believe in her father!"Rebellion or whatever is simply the height of stupidity!" Toto said with a look of disappointment. "Those foolish boys, it's just been three years without rain, so what?!""I believe in His Highness the King, and so do most of the citizens."They always believed the King wouldn't use Dance Powder; it must have been a setup by someone with ill intentions!But there's no helping it; things have already reached this point..."I tried to stop them before, but it was no use. They wouldn't listen to me at all.""Their stamina has likely reached its limit by now. The next time will probably be the final battle.""Vivi." Toto looked up, his face covered in tears, and said, "Please, go quickly and stop those foolish boys."Don't let there be any more useless sacrifices.Vivi fell silent for a moment, then grabbed Toto's hand and said, "Don't worry, Uncle Toto. I will definitely stop them!""Good." Toto wiped away his tears and nodded with relief. "You all go and rest first. I'll be busy for a while longer."Patting Vivi's shoulder, the old man walked back into the trench, digging at the ground with the shovel in his hand, attempting to dig up groundwater.Watching his trembling back, everyone felt a pang of heartache.Then, everyone turned their gaze toward Ben. The meaning was more than obvious.'You should have a way, right?'"Ben, help him out..." Nami reached out and took Ben's hand, her eyes clouded with a thin mist.This hardworking old man reminded her of her late foster mother. Hadn't she also worked so hard to let them survive?"I understand." Ben sighed, then waved his hand to the others. "You guys go rest in the RV first. Leave the rest to me."He glanced at the tireless figure in the distance. Bentruly admired him.Even though he knew the chances of finding water like this were slim, he still hadn't given up."Well~""Perhaps I am the reward sent by the heavens for this old man~" Ben smiled, then walked to the side to study his invention....The night passed quickly, and Nami walked out of the RV feeling refreshed."Ah~""So comfortable~" Nami stretched, showing off her perfect figure, causing Ben's eyelids to twitch nearby. "This little vixen."Perhaps noticing Ben's gaze, Nami turned her head toward him.It was fine until she looked; once she did, she froze on the spot. "What is this?"A massive mechanical body lay not far from Ben. It looked at least ten meters long and resembled...A giant python?"Ah, this is the treasure I stayed up all night to make..." Ben patted the mechanical body beside him and said, "This thing is called the Mechanical Python.""Its main function is to search for groundwater while simultaneously opening up underground tunnels to bring the water over.""Of course, it's also equipped with weapons and gear to take down any unknown creatures it might encounter."After all, no one knows if there are things like Sandworms beneath the desert.Those things are not small in size.Usopp, who had just stepped off the vehicle, also heard Ben's words. He walked over to Ben and tapped the Mechanical Python. "This thing can go underwater?""Isn't this a machine?""How can it go in the water? What if it short-circuits?""You're underestimating me too much." Ben said crossly. "How could something I invented be damaged by mere groundwater?""Didn't you all find it hard to watch this old man continue to suffer?" Ben smiled faintly. "Now with this, the water source problem can be completely solved."Then he clapped his hands. "Mechanical Python, start your work.""First, open up Yuba's groundwater and bring it up, then open underground tunnels throughout Alabasta and wait for my next command.""Vroom~" The Mechanical Python's eyes suddenly lit up, its azure eyes looking exceptionally lifelike."Received!"Its massive body immediately moved, turning into a giant drill that slammed into the ground, disappearing in the blink of an eye.The Straw Hat Pirates were completely stunned. "Is it really that fast?""What did you think?" Ben huffed. "In a week at most, the Mechanical Python can open up the underground tunnels for the entire AlabastaKingdom!""In that case, doesn't that mean we can bring in seawater?!" Vivi said with a look of surprise. "That's great!""It's not that simple." Ben waved his hand. "This is only the first step.""You should know that seawater cannot be used directly. So I plan to solve the seawater issue after defeating Crocodile, converting it into drinkable fresh water.""That way, Alabasta's water shortage problem can be completely resolved."Otherwise, even if we bring in seawater, it can't be used.It can't be drunk, nor can it be used for farming.What damn use would that be?"Purify seawater?" Vivi was a bit stunned. "Is that even possible?"Her previous thought was to bring in seawater. Although it couldn't be drunk directly, at least once there was water on the ground, rainfall would increase."Little girl, there's a lot you don't know." Bengrumbled. "Alright, the matter is settled. I'm going to catch up on some sleep.""Make yourselves at home."Looking at Ben's departing back, Nami said with some heartache, "Thank you for your hard work."Ben waved his hand without a word. After moving the vehicle to higher ground, he ate something and fell into a deep sleep.It wouldn't take long; a few hours would be enough."Thank you..." Vivi murmured to herself. If it weren't for Ben, she really wouldn't know what to do.Nami smiled and patted Vivi's shoulder, then looked toward the RV and shouted, "Sanji, is it time for a meal?""Coming, coming!" Sanji walked out of the RV carrying a large platter. "Here, here, top-quality cream sandwiches.""They're best for breakfast~""Hey, old man, you have some too!" Sanji shouted to Toto, who was walking out of the house in the distance.Toto nodded upon hearing this and walked over with his shovel."Hmm?" Taking a bite of the sandwich, Toto noticed the large pit nearby and asked in confusion, "What's this?""Could it be that a sandstorm hit yesterday?"A large pit two or three meters in diameter was clearly not something man-made.Vivi explained the situation to Toto, and he was a bit stunned. "Is that even possible?!"There's actually such a miraculous invention in this world?But the huge, deep hole in front of him left him unable to say anything to refute it.After a while, Toto sighed. "What a good kid."The location of that deep hole was exactly where he had been digging yesterday. Was that child telling him not to give up hope?It seems Vivi's friends are all good kids.
At that very moment, the earth suddenly trembled, as if some giant beast were about to burrow out from underground.A moment later—"Boom!"A massive amount of water erupted from a deep hole not far away, shooting up like a fountain!It sprayed for a full ten seconds before slowing down, but the tunnel in the distance had already turned into a small river!Toto's legs went weak and he slumped to the ground. Tears streamed down his aged face as he looked at the small river and said, "Water...""There's finally water! Yuba is saved! Yuba is saved!""This is wonderful!"Looking at this middle-aged man who was both crying and laughing, the members of the Straw Hat Pirates had complex expressions on their faces.Among them, perhaps only Vivi could truly understand his feelings."Uncle Toto, we still have hope." Vivi knelt down and helped Toto up. "The Kingdom of Alabasta still has hope!"Chapter 75: The Disdainful Ben—You Think You're Worthy of My Submission?"Uncle, take this." Having woken up, Ben handed the seeds in his hand to Toto and said, "These are drought-resistant trees. Once a forest forms, the oasis can exist forever."Toto's hands trembled as he took the seeds Benoffered. In that moment, he felt like he wasn't holding seeds, but the future of a nation—it felt incredibly heavy!"This..."He didn't doubt Ben's words. After all, how could a man capable of creating such things lie to him about something like this?He simply felt that the value of this gift was far too high."Please, just take them." Ben smiled and closed the man's hand around them. "If you think they're precious, then help me plant them well.""After all, no matter how valuable something is, if it isn't put to use, it's just a useless object."Seeing Ben's gentle smile, Toto's eyes welled up again."Good child, thank you.""It's nothing. You have to keep working hard, old man~" Ben said with a smile, then ran toward the RV in the distance.After watching Ben leave, Toto tucked the seeds into his chest like a treasure, muttering to himself, "Don't worry, Yuba will definitely get better."It definitely will.Picking up his shovel, the old man slowly walked off into the distance.From now on, he had a new mission.On the other side, when Ben returned to the RV, he saw Luffy lying under a tree, his hat covering his face so his expression was hidden."What's the meaning of this?""When we were talking about going back to find the Rebel Army just now, Luffy ended up like this," Chopper explained.Ben's brow furrowed. What was going on?But then he realized: although they had been saying they would defeat Crocodile, they had actually been spending all their time searching for the Rebel Army.He stepped to the side and remained silent, quietly waiting for Luffy's performance."What's wrong, Luffy?" Vivi looked at Luffy with confusion. What was it this time?He was fine just a moment ago."I'm not doing it," Luffy said with an impatient look."Hey, Luffy, we don't have time to indulge your nonsense here," Usopp said, exasperated. "Get up, quick."Is now the time to be selfish?"Aren't we supposed to go back?""Exactly," Sanji said, sounding annoyed. "We need to follow the path we took yesterday to Katorea and stop the Rebel Army!""If the million citizens of this country start a massive conflict, the consequences will be unthinkable!""This is for Vivi! Get up, let's go!" As Sanji spoke, he walked over and tried to pull Luffy up.Luffy threw off Sanji's arm and said indifferently, "How boring.""What did you say?!" Sanji roared, his mouth widening like a shark's. "Believe it or not, I'll kick your ass!"As he spoke, he started rolling up his sleeves, intending to have it out with Luffy.Ben reached out and grabbed Sanji's arm, signaling him not to move.Sanji was stunned for a moment, not quite understanding Ben's meaning."Vivi," Luffy said, glancing at her. "I want to kick Crocodile's ass!""Even if we stop the Rebel Army, so what? Can you stop Crocodile?""Even if we reach Katorea, there's nothing we can do.""Because we're pirates. It might even be better if we don't go."If they went, it might even have the opposite effect.Sanji froze, and the others were stunned as well.So that's what Luffy meant?"Luffy might not have much of a brain, but what he says at times like this is always spot on," Ben said calmly. "Luffy is right. Crocodile is the primary enemy."If he doesn't die, this country will never know peace.What's the point of dealing with this wave of the Rebel Army?Is it not certain that there will be another wave?"You hope that not a single person dies in this war.""The citizens, and all of us.""Our enemy is a member of the Shichibukai, and this is already a riotous war involving millions of people.""You actually think everyone can come out of this safe and sound? Don't you think you're being too naive, Vivi!"Hearing Luffy's words, Vivi clenched her fists and shouted at him in a rage, "What's wrong with that!""I don't want anyone to die! What exactly is wrong with that?!"Looking at the furious Vivi, Luffy said calmly, "People die."Seeing Luffy like this, Vivi's anger reached its peak. She slapped Luffy hard across the face, sending him flying back.This action left the others at a loss, unsure of what to do for a moment."Just stand there quietly," Ben said tonelessly. "Luffyhas his own thoughts."Hearing Ben's words, Vivi grit her teeth. "What 'own thoughts'? Am I wrong?!""Aren't we trying to prevent this tragedy from happening right now?""None of this is the fault of the Rebel Army, the Royal Army, or the citizens of this country!""Why must someone die? It's all Crocodile's fault!"Luffy slowly looked up at Vivi, then punched her in the face, pinning her to the ground."Then why are you betting your own life!""Do you expect to carry everything on your own?!"Hearing Luffy's roar, Vivi grit her teeth and stood back up, pinning Luffy to the ground and hitting him repeatedly."Take a good look at the state of this country," Luffysaid, ignoring the fists hitting his face. "And what it is you should be doing!""Just your one life isn't enough of a bet.""Then what else can I bet? I only have one life..." Tears fell from the corners of Vivi's eyes, and her whole body began to shake. "I don't have any other capital left to bet with..."She only had this one life.Hearing Vivi's words, Luffy angrily shoved her aside and roared, "At least bet our lives along with yours! Aren't we comrades?!"In that moment, Vivi understood what Luffy meant.The tears would no longer stop. Sitting on the ground, she cried like a small child.Seeing this, Nami walked over and took Vivi into her arms.She understood Vivi's feelings perfectly."I know you're the one who's most frustrated by all this," Luffy said, slowly standing up and putting his hat on. "Tell me, where is Crocodile now!""I understand." Vivi bit her lip and stood up from Nami's embrace. "Let's go find Crocodile."Luffy was right. If they didn't defeat Crocodile, this catastrophe would never truly end."As long as there is war, people will die," Ben said calmly from nearby. "Our job isn't to protect everyone, but to reduce casualties as much as possible.""Taking down Crocodile is the fastest shortcut. Once he's dealt with, I'm confident I can make everyone stop fighting."What was the real reason for the outbreak in this country?It was water!Because it wouldn't rain!It hadn't rained for three whole years!Then the only thing that could stop them was rain.But the prerequisite was taking down Crocodile, the suna suna no mi Ability User. Otherwise, the rain would never fall."So we finally don't have to go in circles anymore?" Zoro was very satisfied with this decision.He also agreed with Luffy's reasoning."So, where is that bastard Crocodile?" Sanji said with an annoyed look. "I'm going to give him a good kick.""Rainbase." Vivi pulled out a map and pointed to a location. "He's right here.""We must take him down before a full-scale war breaks out between the Rebel Army and the Royal Army."Chapter 71This way, casualties can be minimized as much as possible."Rainbase?" Ben glanced at the map and nodded. "If we set off now, we should be able to reach it in a few hours.""Then what are we waiting for? Let's go!""Boys, let's go send that bastard Crocodile flying!""Yeah!"..."We've arrived. This is Rainbase." Vivi pointed to the city ahead and said, "Karoo (Kuai Pao Ya) should have delivered my letter to my father by now."She estimated it wouldn't be long before her father sent troops over.She hoped they could take down Crocodile before her father arrived."Let's do this," Ben said after putting away the motorhome. "I suspect this city is full of Crocodile's people. If we go looking for him with a grand entrance, we'll likely never find him.""I'll go check the casino that bastard runs first to see if he's there. You guys wait for my signal in the city."If possible, he didn't mind killing Crocodile ahead of schedule."That works." The others nodded, then turned their gaze toward Luffy and said, "You, kid, behave yourself this time.""Why?! I'm the one who's going to send Crocodileflying!""I'll let you send him flying once I find him, okay?" Ben said with a smile."Fine, then." Luffy immediately quieted down. Anyone else was fine, but Crocodile had to be sent flying by him.Seeing this, Ben held his forehead and thought, 'It looks like this opponent still has to be left to Luffy.'If he were to steal the kill, this guy would nag him for a lifetime.After watching Ben leave, the group walked into the city."I hope this doesn't cause any commotion~"However, what they didn't know was that Smokerwas currently waiting for them in Rainbase...."This must be it." Ben looked at the massive casino in front of him, the corners of his mouth curling up. "I hope you don't get angry when I win all your money later, Crocodile~"With that, he strode inside.What he didn't know was that the moment he stepped into the casino, his presence was detected by Nico Robin.'I didn't expect him to actually come?' Nico Robin's face was full of surprise, and then a glint flashed in her eyes. 'In that case, the Straw Hat Pirates and Princess Vivi should have come along as well.'How interesting. Did they choose the hardest but most direct path of coming to defeat Crocodile?"No—this is bad!" A staff member ran in frantically and said to the two of them, "Someone is here to wreck the place!""Wreck the place?" Crocodile looked back at his subordinate, his expression darkening. "Does he not know this is my territory?"Is the title of Shichibukai not effective these days?Exactly which death-seeking short-lived ghost dared to come here looking for trouble?"I'll go take a look." Nico Robin smiled. "I want to see who is so bold.""I don't want any complications right now. You understand what I mean.""Of course." Nico Robin nodded with a smile, then walked to the staff member's side and said, "Let's go. Take me to see who is so bold.""Yes..."Soon, Nico Robin arrived on the first floor. Seeing the man wearing glasses in the distance, she pondered for a moment, picked up two glasses of red wine from the side, and walked over.Walking up to Ben, she said, "Would you like a glass of red wine?""Thanks~" Ben smiled and took it, setting it aside, but he didn't turn around.After a moment, sensing that the person beside him hadn't left, Ben asked in confusion, "What are you waiting for? A tip?""Here, take these 100,000 Berries worth of chips and go spend them.""You certainly are generous~" Nico Robin glanced at the young women around them who were looking at Ben with sparkling eyes. "You've attracted quite a few beautiful girls."At this point, Ben also felt something was wrong. Why did this voice sound so familiar?Turning around and seeing it was Nico Robin, Benimmediately smiled. "It's you.""You're not afraid to see me?" Nico Robin was somewhat puzzled; logically speaking, she was an enemy."Afraid of you?" Ben shook his head. "Tell me, where is Crocodile right now?""You're looking for our boss~" Nico Robin gave a strange smile. "He's upstairs. Do you want to go up and say hello?"Her expression looked as if she were looking forward to Ben going up and having a fight with Crocodile.Ben smiled. A fight with Crocodile ahead of time?Hmm~That's actually something to look forward to. Should I go up and try?Just as Ben intended to go up, the casino doors were burst open again, and Luffy and the others rushed in from outside."Ah!""Run!""Luffy?" Ben was dumbfounded. "Why are you guys here? Didn't I tell you to wait for me outside?!""It's all this idiot Luffy's fault! He insisted on going to buy water!" Nami felt like she was going to die of anger. "Fine, stop talking about useless things, run!"Luffy went even further; he grabbed Ben by the neck and yanked him along.Ben only had time to say one sentence to Nico Robin before he flew out."What a shame. I'll find him next time then."Nico Robin was stunned for a moment, then smiled."Next time..."In the direction you're fleeing, there might not be a next time.Whatever. If they die just like that, it only proves they were nothing more than that.On the other side, Luffy and the others were chased all the way by Smoker, eventually running into a dead end.The air instantly went silent."Luffy, you idiot, how did you lead the way!" Bensaid crossly, then prepared to blast a path through the wall.At that moment, the ground beneath them suddenly opened up, and everyone fell through.By the time Ben regained his senses, everyone was already locked inside a cage.Ben:???"Hey, what are you doing?!""My... my body has no strength." Luffy, who was pinned to the ground by Smoker's Jitte, said weakly, "Let go of me."What was going on? Why did it feel like he had fallen into the ocean?"It's Sea Stone, right?" Ben wasn't in a hurry to act. Instead, he asked curiously, "Smoker, aren't you afraid of hurting yourself by putting Sea Stone on your weapon?""And as a Captain of the Marineford, you actually don't know Haki?"That was quite thought-provoking.Smoker roared as if someone had poked a sore spot, "What do you know?!"Did he not want to learn Haki?The key was that with his current physical fitness, there was no way he could use it.Ben ignored the red-faced man, turned to look at the bars beside him, and said, "If I'm not mistaken, this thing is probably also made with a mix of Sea Stone.""Hmph, if it weren't for that, I would have been out of here long ago." Smoker snorted coldly, but there was nothing he could do. With this thing here, he couldn't use his elemental form to fly out.Just then, Crocodile walked in from outside, looking at the crowd in the cell with a playful expression. "Yo, hello everyone.""Straw Hat kid, right? I heard you were going to send me flying?""And Scientist Ben, you must have felt great winning money at my casino just now. Now, spit it all back out~" Speaking to this point, Crocodilehesitated for a moment, then said, "However, if you are willing to submit to me, I can spare your life.""After all, I do appreciate talent~"He didn't have a single researcher like this on his side. He would likely need someone like this to use Pluton in the future, so it wasn't a bad idea to recruit one in advance."Who do you think you are?" Ben said with a face full of mockery. "A stray dog who lost his spirit after being defeated is worthy of my submission?""Don't make me laugh.""How much courage do you have left after being defeated by Whitebeard?"To be honest, Ben really looked down on Crocodileat this point in time.Chapter 76: The Full Power of the wild wolf armor—Let You Experience the Charm of Modern Technology!Hearing Ben's words, Crocodile's face instantly darkened. "Kid, you're looking for death!""Are you so impatient for me to kill you?!""Hey, hey, hey, Ben, what are you doing?!" Usoppwas losing his mind. We've been captured! Isn't provoking the enemy like this just asking for death?!Ben snorted coldly, not giving Crocodile an inch. "Kill me if you have the guts."Crocodile froze for a moment looking at Ben, then laughed mockingly. "You want to die?""Heh, I'm not going to let you die that easily.""Where's the fun in that?"Killing someone directly was the most boring way. He was going to use more interesting methods to finish them off.Letting them die in the depths of despair—this was the consequence of resisting him!"Oh, right." Crocodile said as if he had remembered something. "My partner has likely found that princess by now.""Don't worry, she'll be reuniting with you all very soon."
Hahahahaha.""You bastard!" An enraged Luffy grabbed the bars and roared, "Give me..."Before he could finish his sentence, he went limp, leaving Usopp speechless. "I told you not to touch those bars! Are you an idiot?!"With such an idiot Captain, how much better could his crew be?What a waste of emotion.Just then, Vivi appeared at the entrance, glaring at Crocodile with fury as she roared, "You're the bastard who turned my country into this, aren't you!""I'll kill you!"Seeing Vivi brandish her weapon and charge at Crocodile, Ben was stunned. "Hey, you're no match for him!"Even if you want to show off, there are limits. Is Crocodile someone you can handle?!Looking at Princess Vivi charging toward him, Crocodile didn't even blink, watching her indifferently.Until her weapon struck his upper body, turning it into a flurry of yellow sand."Eh?" Luffy was stunned. "Did it work?"Was this Crocodile really that weak?"How is that possible?" Smoker said irritably. "He's a Logia Ability User."If he could be killed that easily, he wouldn't be one of the Shichibukai."Hahaha, exactly right~" Crocodile said playfully as his body reformed, looking at Vivi. "Living in this country, there's no way you don't know my ability.""Don't get so excited, sit down like a good girl." After forcibly pinning Vivi into a seat, Crocodilewalked to the other side and said calmly, "A good show is about to begin in a moment~"Seeing Crocodile's playful expression, Vivi roared in anger, "What exactly do you plan to do in Alabasta?!"She saw clearly now; this Crocodile definitely didn't want to build some bullshit ideal nation!Crocodile didn't answer the question directly, but instead asked one of his own: "Do you know what kind of person I despise the most?"Without waiting for Vivi to answer, Crocodilecontinued to himself, "It's those hypocrites who pretend to care for the citizens but are actually selfish!""Hypocrite?" Ben looked up at Crocodile and said, "You're describing yourself, aren't you?"On the surface, he's the hero of this country, but in reality, he's an ambitious man trying to seize the nation for himself.How did Ben find his words so ironic?"You talk too much." Crocodile glanced at Ben. "Do you need me to kill you all right now?""Hey, hey, hey, Ben, stop talking!" Usopp fearfully covered Ben's mouth, terrified that Ben would provoke Crocodile further.Ben's brow furrowed, but he didn't speak again."Hmph." Crocodile snorted and turned his gaze back to Vivi. "You know who I'm talking about.""Do you plan to kill my father?""Kill him?" Crocodile sneered. "I have no interest in that.""But I want him to feel a sense of humiliation more cruel than death!"Looking at Crocodile's terrifying appearance, Vivi's pupils shrank.A sense of humiliation more cruel than death?"What exactly is your so-called Utopia Plan?""Tell me!"Looking at the stubborn Vivi, for some reason, Crocodile suddenly felt a bit of admiration for her."What a brave princess~" Crocodile said playfully. "Very well, the plan has already begun anyway, and you're all going to die here.""Then I'll explain to you what the so-called Utopia Plan is~"Hearing Crocodile's words, Ben, who was about to act, paused; he wanted to see what kind of nonsense Crocodile could come up with."You know, this country is falling into an abyss because the King's actions have caused most cities to stop receiving rain.""That's why the riots started.""And what I need to do is seize this opportunity to incite the crowds, escalate the situation, and pull your father down in one fell swoop!""After that~" Crocodile revealed a fierce smile, "as the hero of this country, I will naturally step in to quell the war.""Then, I will naturally take the throne as King~""Don't think it's impossible. I promised them that as long as your father is defeated, it will rain in this country again~" Crocodile said with a grin.After all, once the use of Dance Powder stops and he ceases his fruit ability's output, it will naturally rain.If that fails, he can use his fruit ability to find groundwater and dig it up!In short, there are too many ways to become King."And the people who get water will be as happy as if they had returned to a Utopia~"After all, this is a desert nation!The importance of water needs no explanation."But if you do that, many people will die!" Vivi bit her lip and said, "Countless people will die.""Heh, do you think I care?" Crocodile snorted coldly. "All I want is this country; as for the lives of others, I don't care."All he wanted was Pluton; otherwise, he wouldn't even look at this pathetic, poor desert country."If you listen closely, you should be able to hear Alabasta's wailing~" Crocodile grinned. "Everyone is thinking about one thing~""Protect Alabasta~"The entire Rebel Army is fighting under that banner. How tragic and moving~"Shut up!" Vivi's tears burst out. "How can you do something so outrageous!"Seeing Vivi's reaction, Crocodile laughed even harder."Hahaha, don't you think this is interesting?""The very thought of caring for the country will end up destroying it~"Hearing this, Vivi completely broke down. "Shut up, shut up!""I can't take this anymore." Ben glared at Crocodileoutside and roared, "Sand Crocodile, can you only bully little girls?!"He then summoned his wild wolf armor and slammed two heavy punches into the Sea Stonebars, but they only left a faint white mark!This made Ben's expression turn very ugly. "Even ten tons of force can't break this?!"Isn't this a bit too ridiculous?Gritting his teeth, Ben opened the rear weapon System. "Everyone get back, I'm going to try blasting it with the cannon!""Stop!" Usopp was stunned and rushed forward to hug the mechanical leg of the wild wolf armor, shouting, "If you fire at this range, we'll die!"They had all seen the power of Ben's bombs; at this distance, they would die, they really would!Ben gritted his teeth at the words. "Then we just do nothing?!""Damn it, give me a few minutes." He needed to upgrade his wild wolf armor.If he had known, he would have installed the laser weapon System."Hmph, boring." Looking at the noisy Ben, Crocodilesaid with little interest, "You're a Devil Fruit Usertoo, aren't you? Space-type?""But unfortunately, stuck in a Sea Stone cage, you have no way to use your abilities."With that, he took a key from his pocket and spun it in his hand. "Do you know what this is?""The key!" Vivi's eyes momentarily lit up, then dimmed. "What are you going to do?""Play an interesting game, of course~" Crocodilecasually dropped the key onto the floor—specifically, into a small hole in the ground."Now I'll give you a chance. If you can go down, defeat all the Crocodiles, and grab the key, you can save this group~" Crocodile laughed happily. "This place will be flooded with seawater soon, so think it over carefully~""Hahahahaha."Glancing at Nico Robin beside him, Crocodile turned to leave. "Let's go!""Good luck, little girl~" Nico Robin smiled, then walked out without looking back.Vivi looked at the two departing figures, then at her companions in the cage."What should I do..."She had already seen Bananadiles down there; those were creatures that dared to challenge Sea Kings!Gritting her teeth, Vivi picked up her weapon and prepared to rush down. No matter what, she couldn't let her friends die here."Vivi!" Nami said with worry. "Be careful.""Wait, didn't Ben say he has a way?!" Usoppshouted anxiously. "It's so dangerous down there, don't let Vivi go!"What if she dies down there?!Usopp didn't want Vivi to die here."Hey, Ben, how much longer!""Don't rush me," Ben roared. "Two more minutes, just two minutes!"Ben's hands were moving so fast they were a blur; two minutes was the absolute limit!Hearing Ben's words, everyone quieted down."Vivi, wait here," Luffy said. "Don't go down."At this moment, he chose to trust his partner.Even though seawater was already starting to seep in from the distance, the members of the Straw Hat Pirates showed no fear.If Ben said he could get them out in two minutes, then two minutes it was!As time passed, the water level gradually reached everyone's shoulders.It looked like it would go over their heads in just a bit!Vivi bit her lip; if this continued, there really wouldn't be any chance left.
Just as she was about to rush down, Ben roared, "Everyone, get out of the way!"Boom!With a loud bang, Ben used the laser blade in his hand to shatter the Sea Stone railing!Everyone took the opportunity to rush out from inside."Hey, Zoro, take that guy with you too." Luffypointed at Smoker, who was already rolling his eyes underwater."Why bother with someone like that?" Zoro said with some dissatisfaction, but he still swam back and brought the man out.Seeing that everyone had escaped, Vivi breathed a sigh of relief.The crisis was finally over..."Eh?" After walking onto the high platform, Naminoticed a problem. "Where did Ben go?""Ah, he just shouted Crocodile's name and rushed out." Vivi pointed toward the main gate and said, "He was too fast; I didn't have time to stop him...""Ah?!" The now-conscious Luffy shouted, "Did he go to fight Crocodile? That's my opponent!""Seriously, he actually beat me to it!"Thinking of this, Luffy immediately ran outside. He couldn't let Ben steal his enemy!..."Crocodile!!!" Ben's roaring voice echoed throughout all of Rainbase. "Get the hell out here!""What is that in the sky?!""A giant robot?""Not sure, it looks very Advanced, but what is he looking for Crocodile for?""Oh?" Crocodile, who was just about to leave, heard this and glanced at the wild wolf armor in the air with some confusion. "What is this?"But why did that voice sound so much like the man named Ben?Could this be a product of his technology?To think he escaped so quickly...He appreciated this man even more now!Thinking of this, Crocodile glanced at Nico Robinbeside him and said, "Continue with the plan; I'll go meet this fellow."He then turned into a cloud of yellow sand and vanished.After casting a pitying look at Ben flying in the sky, Nico Robin turned and walked into the distance.Even if you know how to research things, it's impossible to defeat Crocodile~"Kid, I'll give you one more chance." Crocodileappeared on a rooftop not far from Ben and said, "Submit to me, and I'll give you a position second only to mine.""I've said it before, I don't care for it, and you're not worthy!" Ben said fiercely. "Since I made my debut, you're the first person to make me this angry.""Today, I'm going to beat you to death!""Beat me to death?" Crocodile said disdainfully. "With this scrap metal of yours?""Try it and you'll find out!" Ben roared, then steered the wild wolf armor and charged at Crocodile.While flying, Ben crushed a sphere of flowing liquid and attached it to the wild wolf armor.A visible stream of water covered the mecha!"kinetic power at full capacity!""Lock onto Crocodile's vital points!""Target locked, ready to attack!""Come on!" Crocodile said excitedly. "Let me beat you into submission!"Watching the wild wolf armor get closer and closer, Crocodile suddenly felt something was wrong. Was there water on that mecha?At that thought, Crocodile's pupils shrank, and he quickly shifted his body.The next moment~Boom!Ben threw a heavy punch at Crocodile, blasting him right out of the city!Swoosh~Boom!!He crashed heavily into the desert outside the city!Cough, cough. Crocodile, lying on the ground, was stunned. "What happened?"Why was there water on that robot?Without water, it would be impossible to land a physical hit on him.Reaching out to touch his abdomen, Crocodile's expression became incredibly grim, and blood trickled from the corner of his mouth."At least two broken ribs." Crocodile looked up at the light rushing from the city's direction and instead became somewhat excited. "How long has it been?""How long has it been since I've felt this sensation of being injured?!""Kid, try whatever means you have!" Crocodilewiped the blood from the corner of his mouth and stood up. "Let me see what you're capable of!"He had already decided that Ben would be his man.Once he killed Straw Hat and his crew, wouldn't this person obediently join his ranks?"In that case, I'll grant your wish!" Flying in the air, Ben looked coldly at Crocodile and said, "Open all weapons for me!!""Aim all weapons at Crocodile!""Today, I'll let you experience the charm of modern technology!""Armory access granted.""Target locked: Crocodile!""Fire!"Countless beams of light flew from Ben's body, striking Crocodile heavily!Boom!At this moment, the earth shook!Chapter 77: super laser beam weapon - Annihilation Cannon!This time, Ben wasn't stingy with his weapon output, firing for a full minute.He plowed the ground, forcefully blasting a crater a kilometer wide into the earth!This was enough to show how terrifying the power of Ben's various explosive weapons was.The yellow sand flying everywhere made it impossible to see the situation inside. Ben frowned slightly. "wild wolf no. 1, activate thermal sensing device.""thermal imaging activated."Carefully scanning the crater below, a hint of doubt flashed in Ben's eyes. "Did I get him?"That shouldn't be right. Could it be that Crocodiledidn't have time to use his Logia elementalization?Just as he was wondering, Crocodile's voice appeared beside Ben, his tone quite playful. "Kid, did you forget I'm a Logia?""Desert Spada!!" Lifting a weapon made of yellow sand, he slashed hard at Ben's wild wolf armor!Ben was startled and immediately turned, crossing his arms in front of him."Clang!""Swoosh~"He was sent flying backward, crashing heavily into the deep crater on the ground.Boom!Looking at Ben, who had crashed into the sand, Crocodile began to laugh, his laughter growing louder and louder."Kid, I appreciate you more and more.""Those weapons are definitely not something an ordinary Scientist could invent." A look of madness flashed in Crocodile's eyes. "Follow me. When I kill Whitebeard and World Government the sea, I will give you an unimaginable status!"With the support of these weapons, plus the deterrent of Pluton...He didn't believe anyone in this world would dare to challenge him!"I refuse!" Ben's voice came from the sand, and he then exploded out of the surface.Standing on the sand, Ben looked fiercely at Crocodile. "I'll say it again: you're not worthy!""You don't even have the most basic spirit of a king. Where do you get the courage to say such things?!"Crocodile immediately stopped laughing and looked at Ben with a dark Face. "You don't know what's good for you, do you?"Crocodile felt he had given Ben enough Face, but to have his Face slapped like this again and again..."Do you really think I'm reluctant to kill you?"Ben snorted and ignored him, instead raising his hands. "Annihilation Cannon!"A deep blue light gathered in front of his hands. This was the super laser beam weapon he had created while modifying the mecha just now!"You!""Go to hell!"Boom!A dazzling light suddenly appeared on this land, lighting up the already somewhat dark sky!People in the distant city could clearly see that beam of light breaking through the horizon!Luffy and the others, who were running this way, were momentarily stunned upon seeing this, and then they realized. "Is this Ben's weapon attacking?""Damn, they've already started fighting.""We clearly agreed that Crocodile would be left to me."