Chapter 23 - Chapter 23 — Scars of the Past

Law finally understood Wolf's reaction when he heard what Doflamingo had done and what punishment awaited him.Wolf had lived through the same nightmare.Law stayed silent and continued listening."This wasn't the first time the Marines set a trap for us," Wolf said calmly. "And every time before, we managed to escape. But this time… we underestimated the World Government."His voice grew darker."Those bastards sent a spy. Someone we trusted. That spy slipped an extremely powerful poison into our captain's food. Because of that, he couldn't fight at full strength… and he lost."Law clenched his fists."We tried to help him," Wolf continued, "but we were weak. Against us stood three Logia users. They crushed us like insects."A heavy silence followed."Half of our crew died. Only I and a few of the main officers managed to escape."Law's eyes widened slightly."Our captain… Byrnndi World… lost that battle. He was frozen and sent to Level 6 of Impel Down."Wolf looked away."At that moment, I realized the World Pirates were finished. I left the crew. But the others who survived still believed their captain would return one day… so they stayed."He let out a slow breath."After leaving, I decided to live a normal life. And I chose to fulfill my childhood dream—building a massive submarine."Law didn't know what to say.Then Wolf spoke again, his voice firm."Law… I know you want revenge against the World Government. I won't stop you. But listen carefully."Wolf looked straight into Law's eyes."Never underestimate those bastards. They are willing to do anything to kill someone. Always be careful—especially with your crew."His tone sharpened."From my life experience, I learned one thing: the World Government can turn your best friend into your enemy."Law nodded slowly."I understand, Wolf-san," Law said. "I'll be careful. And I promise… one day, the World Government will fear my name."For a moment, Wolf stared at him—then burst out laughing."HAHAHAHA! You're still a little brat!"He grinned."But I'll be waiting for that day."And just like that, their conversation ended—yet the bond between them grew even stronger.The next day, just as Wolf had promised, Shachi and Penguin began their punishment.From early morning, they were forced to do house chores nonstop.Bepo, being the kindest among them, tried to help.They almost accepted—but the moment they saw the cold expression on Law's face, they immediately refused Bepo's help and started working even faster.