He also knew that he couldn't interfere at a time like this, but he was scared!Forget it, it's all in the past anyway; he was already a brave warrior of the sea now!"Winning feels good, doesn't it?""Of course~" Usopp raised his head proudly. "From now on, you should call me the Great Warrior of the Sea, Lord Usopp!""Hahahaha."On the other side, after Daddy left, he took out his flintlock pistol and glanced at it."That feeling just now..." Daddy recalled the man standing beside that girl. Why did he have such a particularly dangerous feeling back then?It was as if he would die the moment he dared to pull the trigger."What's wrong, Daddy?" Carol looked up at her father, her eyes flickering with doubt."It's nothing." Daddy shook his head, then crouched down to pick her up. "Let's go, we're going home.""Okay~""Daddy, I want ice cream!""Okay, Daddy will buy it for you, haha."At this moment, the scene was incredibly heartwarming...."I wonder if the others have finished shopping yet." Usopp, handing the items to Ben, looked at the crowd in the distance and said, "Is there some kind of event going on over there?""A cooking competition," Ben said calmly. "And the champion has already been decided. It's Sanji.""Sanji?" Usopp was stunned for a moment, then nodded as if it were only natural. "If it's Sanji, then it's no surprise."In his opinion, Sanji's cooking skills were definitely the best in the world!After all, the things Sanji made were the most delicious food he had ever eaten."You guys are here~" Sanji, carrying his spoils, immediately said upon seeing the three of them, "Come over and help me carry this!""No need for all that trouble, just leave it to me." Ben walked over and, like a magic trick, stuffed the fish into his pocket.The space inside was independently partitioned, so there was no need to worry about things touching each other."A magic trick?!" Sanji's eyes bulged out, exactly like Usopp's reaction earlier."Well~""We'll talk about this back on the ship~" Ben waved his hand. "More importantly, aren't you going to say goodbye to that Young Miss?"Ben pointed at Carmen, who was watching from a distance.Seeing Sanji look at her, Carmen raised her head proudly and turned to leave."No need." Sanji smiled. "I already said my goodbyes just now."He just hadn't expected a woman to chase him for ten years."In that case, let's head back to the ship." Namilooked up at the sky, her brow furrowing slightly. "This feeling in the air...""It's going to rain."She wouldn't be wrong about her intuition!Chapter 22: The Man Who Faces Life and Death with a Smile!"Yo, isn't this Marimo~" Sanji, with his hands in his pockets, suddenly spotted a flash of green in the crowd and immediately called out, "Are you lost again?""I am not lost!" Zoro shouted with a look of annoyance. "I was just looking for you guys, okay?""Well, you've found us now."He wasn't lost; the direction he was heading was correct!"So you've already bought three swords." Usoppleaned in close to Zoro and looked at the two extra swords at his waist."Yeah." Zoro patted the hilts of the two swords at his waist. "They're two good blades.""Cursed blades?""How did you know?" Zoro looked at Ben in surprise. "You're not a swordsman, are you?""The magnetic field on the swords is rather strange." Ben calmly pushed up his glasses. "But from the look of it, you've probably tamed them."Zoro's own magnetic field was much stronger than Sandai Kitetsu's, firmly suppressing that cursed blade."Naturally!" Zoro recalled the toss where he wagered his own arm, and the corners of his mouth curled up. "As a swordsman, of course I have to tame my own blades."Otherwise, it's easy to hurt oneself."Mm." Ben nodded, turning his gaze back to the cursed blade, his eyes narrowing slowly.Why was the magnetic field of a cursed blade so strange? Was it possible that the tragic deaths of previous swordsmen were due to being influenced by this eerie magnetic field?"Hey, there's some excitement to see over by the plaza!""What is it?""Buggy the Clown is going to publicly execute Straw Hat Luffy!""What? Something like that is happening? Let's go see!""Hmph, they're all just pirates anyway. Watching dog-eat-dog is still quite entertaining."Hearing the people around them, Sanji's brow furrowed. He glanced in the direction they were heading and said, "Luffy got caught?"That's not good news."Let's go." Ben glanced at Usopp and Nami. "You two get back to the ship quickly. The three of us will come find you after we rescue Luffy.""By the way, take these." Ben handed three small spheres to Nami. "If you encounter an enemy, just throw one out.""Okay." Nami didn't say much else; she took the items and turned to leave."Let's go, Usopp." Nami looked up at the sky. "A terrifying storm will be coming soon."Her intuition wouldn't be wrong; they had to get back to the ship as soon as possible."A storm, huh..." Usopp looked at the distant sky, which was already starting to darken, and believed Nami's words.As expected of their ship's navigator."Let's move." Ben glanced at the two of them. "We need to rescue Luffy and get out of here quickly.""Right."..."Aha-ha-ha-ha! Straw Hat, I've finally caught you!" Buggy the Clown looked down at Luffy, who was stuck in the stocks, and laughed with a face full of triumph. "You won't get away this time!""I've finally waited long enough for this chance!"Buggy the Clown's eyes flickered with the thought: 'Let me see if Shanks' choice was right or wrong!'Pirate King?Kid, being the Pirate King isn't something just anyone can do!"I'm sorry..." Luffy said with a look of sincerity. "I won't do it again.""Please save me."Buggy the Clown:???"Who would save you, you idiot?!" Buggy the Clownwas speechless. "I'm your enemy, you bastard!""Is this how you beg for mercy?!""Hmph, this is what happens when you oppose us," Cabaji said coldly."The man I set my sights on ends here, it seems." Alvida said with some emotion. "Oh well, if he dies, it just means he was nothing more than an ordinary man after all."He wasn't worth her pity.Looking at that Straw Hat, Buggy the Clown's thoughts were very complicated.But what needed to be done now could not be stopped."Do you have any last words?""It's a rare occasion to have so many people watching."Seeing that Luffy had no intention of speaking, Buggy the Clown suddenly felt bored."Forget it, whether you have words or not, you're going to die anyway."Are you too scared to speak?At this moment, a hint of disappointment surfaced in Buggy the Clown's heart.Then, in the next moment, Luffy shouted words that were enough to shock the entire world!"I'm the man who's going to become the Pirate King!!"Buggy the Clown's pupils constricted, his heart filled with shock.This kid...He shouted the same words the Captain did back then, and at this very location."What a classic scene." Ben, having arrived, looked at Luffy in the distance with some emotion, while simultaneously tossing out a robot from his pocket."Stop talking nonsense and save him already!" Zoroand Sanji quickly rushed toward the execution platform."With me here, what's the rush?" Ben shook his head but followed after them anyway."Let me see if it's really heaven's will or if Dragon is behind it." Ben looked up at the sky seriously, pushing his glasses' analysis level to the maximum!After a moment of silence, Buggy suppressed the strange feeling in his heart and looked down at Luffy.Let him be the one to test whether this man will die here or live on!Come then, let destiny take its course!"It's about time to send you on your way.""You bastard Rubber."
Then, he slowly raised the blade in his hand."Stop right there!" Zoro roared. "If you dare make a move, I'll cut you down!""And me!" Sanji glared at Buggy. "I'll definitely kick you to death!""Zoro, Sanji, Ben?!" Luffy looked at his companions appearing in the distance with a look of surprise. "You came to save me."Does that mean he doesn't have to die anymore?"Hmph, so you've arrived." Buggy sneered at Zoro. "Unfortunately, you're a step too late~""Watch closely, watch your Captain die right before your eyes!""Hahahaha."Come on, let me see!Then, he aimed at Luffy's neck and slashed down!Perhaps realizing his companions wouldn't make it in time, Luffy faced his own life and death very magnanimously."Zoro, Sanji, Ben, Usopp, Nami!""Sorry~""I'm going to die."Though facing death, a smile remained on Luffy's face!"Wha...""What kind of stupid talk is that!""Damn, did something go wrong?!" Ben looked at the sky, noticing that although lightning was flashing, it might not arrive in time.Then he raised his hand; he was going to blow Buggy up!Chapter 23: It's Destiny!At that critical moment, a bolt of lightning suddenly descended from the sky, heavily striking the Execution Platform!The moment he was struck by lightning, Buggy the Clown's heart was incredibly calm.'Captain, that bastard Shanks seems to have found an incredible successor...'Then he collapsed to the ground.After all, if it hadn't happened this way, he would have had to attack the kid.But now, there was no point in hitting him.Looking at the collapsing Execution Platform, everyone present wore expressions of shock."He smiled?!" Smoker was shocked. This man actually smiled at the moment of his impending death?Just like the Pirate King back then!Instantly, the level of danger Luffy posed in his mind rose to the maximum.Smoker had a feeling that if he didn't catch this kid today, he would definitely become a terrifying existence in the future!Watching Luffy crouch down to pick up his hat, the cigarette fell from Sanji's mouth.Dazed, he asked the two, "Hey, do you believe in God?""Stop talking nonsense and let's get out of here." Zoro didn't believe in such things.But Ben was different. He had observed the entire process and realized that this lightning bolt wasn't Dragon's doing, which meant...This is damn well the will of heaven!Looking up at the sky, Ben muttered to himself, 'The protection of the Heavenly Dao's will for the protagonist...'And it even destroyed his two small robots without causing an explosion..."Move out, surround them!" Smoker said coldly. "We absolutely cannot let them escape!"Regardless of the others, the Straw Hat must be caught!Seeing the Marines closing in, Zoro pulled back Luffy, who wanted to charge in and fight. "Let's go, if we don't leave now, we won't be able to.""Yeah, otherwise we won't be able to go to the Grand Line."Hearing this, Luffy immediately stopped struggling and turned to follow Sanji as they ran into the distance."Hey, Ben, let's go!""Ah, coming." Ben replied, gave the fallen Buggy a meaningful look, and turned to run.There really are quite a few actors in the pirate world~"Ben!""Coming, coming!""Seriously, what are you doing?" Sanji looked at the catching-up Ben with some exasperation. "Didn't you see the Marines surrounding us?""I just saw some interesting things."Knocking down all the Marines in front of them, the four of them ran into the distance.A flash of lightning streaked across the sky, and Dragon's figure appeared on the rooftop, looking thoughtfully at their retreating backs.Especially when looking at his son, his gaze was exceptionally complex. "Is it the will of heaven?"The Pirate King...If their family produces another Pirate King, I wonder if the old man can handle it.He shook his head with a smile and vanished into a gust of wind."Damn it." Hearing the report that the Straw Hatand his crew had escaped toward the sea, Smokerwas incredibly angry. "Why is the heavens helping them?!"The lightning just now saved the certain-to-die Straw Hat.The rainstorm soaked the gunpowder, preventing the Demolition Squad from destroying the Straw Hat's ship.Plus, with the current wind direction, it's a tailwind for them to head to the Grand Line!"Don't think you can escape from my hands so easily!""Bring my Billuonger Motorcycle, I'm going after the Straw Hat!"Betting on the honor of a Navy Captain, I will definitely bring the Straw Hat Pirates to justice today!..."Luffy, can you not play so dangerously next time?" Sanji said speechlessly. "You almost died, you know!""Sorry..."Sanji's mouth twitched. "Is your apology what I wanted?""Hmm?" Zoro glanced at the woman appearing ahead and suddenly stopped.Why is she here?"I didn't expect you to be Roronoa Zoro, and a pirate at that." Tashigi looked up at Zoro and shouted. "You deceived me!""What?!" Sanji immediately opened his shark-like mouth and roared. "What did you do to her?!"Actually deceiving a lady?You damn Marimo!Zoro ignored the guy whose head was full of women and stepped forward. "You just didn't ask for my name.""I didn't lie to you!""I won't allow a villain like you to carry that famous blade!""The famous sword wado ichimonji, I'm taking it back!"Looking at Tashigi's stubborn expression, Zorogrinned. "If you can do it, then give it a try.""You bastard, actually making a move on a lady!" Sanji's knightly soul instantly flared up, but before he could do anything, Tashigi interrupted him. "Please do not interfere!""This is a battle between Roronoa and me. Outsiders, please do not intervene!""You heard her." Zoro said without turning his head. "You three head back to the ship first, I'll catch up in a bit."Dealing with this girl wouldn't take long; he would catch up soon."Let's go." Luffy grinned. Since Zoro said so, let's head off first."Hey, Zoro, if you dare hurt a lady, I'll never forgive you!" Sanji yelled as he also chased after the others.As Ben passed Zoro, his gaze was incredibly meaningful. "Good luck, Zoro~"Zoro instinctively felt Ben's words had a hidden meaning, but before he could ask, Ben had already run off.Forget it, it's not anything important anyway."It's just ahead." Luffy looked into the distance and said. "I can already see the harbor.""Who's that?" Sanji looked at the person blocking the intersection ahead and asked in confusion. "Is it also a Marine?""Smoker, huh..." Ben slowly narrowed his eyes and put his hand in his pocket.The thing he prepared in advance is about to come in handy."So you've come, Straw Hat Luffy and ScientistBen." Smoker looked coldly at the three of them. "I've said it before, unless you defeat me, you're not going to the Grand Line!"He is the iron wall before the Grand Line!No one shall escape from here!...If you like it, please cast your votes~Thank you everyone~.Chapter 24: smoke suction bead"Ah, I almost forgot." Luffy swung his arm and said. "Sanji, Ben, you two head back to the ship first. I'll be there soon."In that case, I'll just knock this guy down before heading back to the ship.
Chapter 18"Do you think I'll let you pass?" Smoker snorted coldly, and his body began to undergo some changes.A large amount of smoke flew out from his body, beginning to sweep out into the surroundings.Even on a rainy day, his performance was not affected in the slightest!Watching the smoke spreading toward them, Luffyand Sanji moved immediately."Gum-Gum Pistol!""Collier!""Naive!" Smoker sneered at the two of them, showing no intention of dodging.The duo's attacks didn't touch Smoker's body; they passed straight through, causing them to fall over in the distance."What's going on?" Luffy looked puzzled. Why couldn't he hit his body?"I don't know." Sanji was also confused. Could this be a Devil Fruit ability as well?"Kid, why aren't you making a move?" Smokerglanced at Ben, who was standing still, and asked with some suspicion, "Are you planning to surrender without a fight?"Or did this person have some trick up his sleeve that he didn't know about?The bounty poster said this person was a scientist; he might just be a total schemer."I'm well aware that physical attacks have no effect on you." Ben calmly pulled a transparent glass bead from his pocket. "Logia-type—Smoke-Smoke Fruit, am I right?""As expected of a scientist, you have some knowledge," Smoker said appreciatively before his Face turned cold. "However, for those of you who don't know Haki, knowing that is meaningless!""White Out!" Smoker's eyes narrowed as he fully activated his fruit ability, capturing the three of them."Damn it, I can't break free!" Luffy struggled hard, but he couldn't touch the smoke at all and could only remain captured."Ben, if you have a way, use it quickly!" Seeing Benstill looking so confident, Sanji immediately felt that this guy had a move he hadn't used yet."Look, what's the rush?" Although Ben was captured, he remained calm. "Delivering a fatal blow when the enemy is at their most triumphant—that's what makes it interesting, isn't it?""What do you mean?" Smoker said with a dark expression. "You've already been caught by me. Don't think anyone is coming to save you!"The only powerful ones in the Straw Hat Pirateswere these two, and he had caught them both.The others were simply not worth mentioning!"Sigh." Ben sighed, his expression quite pitying."What do you mean?" Smoker looked at Ben with annoyance. This guy had been captured by him, yet he was pitying him?"Just a bit of sentimentality." Ben glanced at Smoker, the corners of his mouth curling up slightly. "A certain Marine gentleman is about to spend his life inside a very small space~""What?"Before Smoker could even ask, a powerful suction force suddenly erupted.Smoker didn't even have time to react before he was sucked into the smoke suction bead in Ben's hand!The others, now free from restraint, fell back to the ground."What happened?" Luffy looked around, confused. "Where did that old smoky guy go?"How did he disappear in the blink of an eye?Did he let them go?What the~That guy was actually a good person."He was sucked into the bead by you?!" Unlike the idiot Luffy, Sanji had seen exactly what happened!He saw it clearly just now: Smoker was sucked into that transparent bead in Ben's hand!"Yeah," Ben said, raising his hand to show the bead. "This is the smoke suction bead I made. Unless an external force breaks it...""This guy will have to stay inside forever."Well, not ruling out the possibility of starving to death."Is it that amazing?" Sanji looked at Ben in shock. "You made this?""Mm.""As expected of a scientist..." Sanji said with some emotion.Sure enough, only people like them could create such strange and wonderful things."Luffy, well done."With a person like this, their journey would go very smoothly."Hahahahaha," Luffy said with a proud look. "Of course, this is the partner I chose!""Alright, stop bragging," Ben said, somewhat speechless. "Let's go quickly; Nami and the others are still at the shore.""It would be bad if there are Marines over there.""Ah, you're right. Let's go, let's go."Glancing at the smoke suction bead in his hand, Ben's lips curled up. "Marine gentleman, whether you survive or not depends on your luck~"Then he tossed it backward, not caring where it landed, and turned to run.On a rooftop, Dragon, who had witnessed the entire process, was somewhat amazed. "Is there such a miraculous invention in this world?!"It seemed there was no longer any need for him to step in.Looking down at Tashigi running toward them in the distance, Dragon thought this young girl should be able to find the bead, and then he vanished into a gust of wind.On the street, Tashigi was running toward the shore with an anxious expression."Damn it, I must take back the Famous Sword!""It's here, right?" Standing at the intersection, Tashigi glanced into the distance; the shore was just ahead.She didn't know if she could make it in time.And it just so happened that where she was standing was exactly where the smoke suction beadwas!Smoker had been in despair; he couldn't break this sphere at all, but the moment he saw Tashigi, the fire of hope was rekindled in his heart."Tashigi!""Tashigi!""Hmm?" Tashigi looked around in confusion. "I thought I heard Colonel Smoker's voice."Could it be an illusion?"You airhead, look at the ground, the ground!""The ground?" Tashigi obediently cast her gaze to the ground and discovered the presence of the smoke suction bead."The voice seems to be coming from inside this..."What is this?She picked it up to take a look and found it was filled with white smoke."It's me!" Smoker's Face suddenly appeared on the wall of the smoke suction bead, nearly scaring Tashigi to death."What on earth?!"Once she looked closely, she realized—isn't this Colonel Smoker?!"Get me out of here, quickly!""How do I save you?"Smoker:..."Just break the sphere!" He was almost driven to tears by this girl's stupidity.With a shattering sound, Smoker stood up once again.Although this girl was quite clumsy, at least he could survive now.Looking up into the distance, Smoker said fiercely, "Don't think you can get away!"Chapter 25: What a Terrifying Weapon!"What are you doing?!" Looking at the giant lion in front of her, Nami was full of anger."Ah, destroying the Straw Hat Pirates' ship, of course!" Mocchi poked his head out from behind Richie and said, "That way, they won't be able to set sail!""Eh?!""Aren't you Straw Hat's partners!"After seeing who it was, Mocchi immediately became enraged. "Richie, bite them to death!"Anyone related to the Straw Hat Pirates must die!"What do we do!" Nami panicked. Wouldn't a lion this big bite them to death?!"I have a way!" Usopp had just heard the sound of the lion's stomach growling; maybe this guy was hungry!Thinking of this, he immediately took an egg from his pocket and placed it on his slingshot. "Sure-Kill: Egg Star!"Watching Usopp's attack fly out, Nami stood there completely stunned.Then she punched Usopp in the Face. "How could an attack like that possibly be effective!"At least use gunpowder!If not, even lead pellets would work!"Don't be in such a hurry." Usopp pushed Nami's hand away. "Look at the effect.""Look at what effect, look..." Nami turned her head and was instantly dumbfounded. "It really worked?"That lion actually ran to the side to lick up the egg??Just how greedy are you for food?She didn't even know how to complain anymore."Hey, Richie, now is not the time for a meal!" Mocchifelt like he had lost Face; you can't undermine me like this now.Unfortunately, Richie didn't want to pay any attention to Mocchi at all; right now, it only wanted to eat.
Forget it, I'll do it myself," Mocchi snorted. Dealing with two small-time crooks was nothing; after all, he was the Vice Captain of the Buggy Pirates!Just then, several lead bullets suddenly flew in from a distance, nearly hitting Mocchi."Who is it?!" Mocchi roared in a rage. "Don't you know how easy it is to hurt me!"When he saw clearly who was coming, he was dumbfounded. "The... Marines??"Why were the Marines appearing here?"Straw Hat Pirates, you are surrounded!" the leading Marine shouted. "Surrender peacefully if you know what's good for you, or we will fire!""No, I'm not with the Straw Hat Pirates...""Fire!"The sudden hail of bullets nearly took Mocchi's life, scaring him so much he pressed himself against the ship's hull, not daring to move."No, why are you only shooting at me!!"There are two other people standing right there, didn't you see them?!And besides, I'm not a member of the damn Straw Hat Pirates!Hearing this, the Marines thought about it and realized he was right, so a portion of them turned their muzzles toward Nami and Usopp."What do we do..." Usopp panicked. In a situation like this, he didn't even seem to have a chance to act.They were being closed in on!"Right, Nami! Didn't Ben give you three balls before we came here?" Usopp said excitedly. "Quick, throw them!""Oh, right." Nami remembered too. She immediately pulled a ball out from her mysterious dimensional pocket and hurled it fiercely at the distant Marines."Woman, have you lost your mind from fear?!" Mocchi was speechless. Did she really think a small ball like that could...BOOM!A massive explosion rang out, directly blowing all the distant Marines away!Mocchi:???Seeing the miserable state of the Marines in the distance, Mocchi gasped, his snot even running out from fear.This woman actually possessed such a terrifying weapon?And she had three of them?!It was a good thing she hadn't thought to use it against him just now...No, I can't stay here. If things go wrong, I'll end up dead.Thinking of this, Mocchi quietly kicked Richie, signaling that it was time to run.Richie understood immediately. After hoisting Mocchi onto his back, he bolted away.Nami didn't even get a chance to speak."Aha ha ha ha! They were scared off by my Aura!" Usopp said smugly as he watched the man and beast flee in panic. "Fine, I'll spare your lives.""Next time you see me, remember to take the long way around!""Ha ha ha ha.""Alright, hurry up and get on the ship." Namiglanced at the distant sky. "A storm is coming soon; we need to be prepared."Just as the two were climbing onto the ship, Luffy's voice came from the alley in the distance. "Quick, quick, quick! Get on the ship!""We're finally going to the Grand Line! I'm so excited!""It's Luffy and the others!" Usopp poked his head out in surprise and saw that it was indeed Luffy and his group."Hey!" Usopp stood up and waved his hand. "Everyone, get on the ship!""Coming!""Hmm?" Ben glanced at the scorched ground nearby and the Marines scattered everywhere. "Good thing I gave her those life-saving items in advance.""Hurry up, everyone! A storm is about to hit," Namishouted from the ship. "But the wind is in our favor. We can use this power to leave this place!"Once everyone was on board, Smoker rushed out from the distance and roared in anger, "Stop right there!""You guys..."Before he could finish his sentence, a sense of danger swept through his mind. Without any hesitation, he quickly activated his elemental form.In the next moment, Ben raised his hand and shouted, "Burst!"BOOM!The explosion blasted a crater where Smoker had been standing. Simultaneously, the going merryused the shockwave to sail further away!"Damn it!" Seeing that he could no longer catch them, Smoker punched the ground in rage. "That damn Straw Hat brat, that damn scientist.""Just you wait!"Betting on his honor as a Navy Captain, he would definitely bring these two bastards to justice!"Tashigi!""Present!" Tashigi, who had just caught up, stood straight and saluted reflexively."Prepare a ship for me. I'm going after those bastards!""Yes!" Tashigi didn't hesitate for a second and turned to carry out the order."Captain, this isn't according to regulations..." a Lieutenant nearby said hesitantly. "If we leave without orders from above...""Don't try to pressure me with those old fogies," Smoker said, looking coldly at the Lieutenant. "When have I ever cared about them?"He was a well-known rebel in the Marines!He would just have someone notify Headquarters and tell them to send people to take over this place.As for himself, he was going to hunt them down!He had to capture this pirate crew!Chapter 26: The Ill-Fated Zoro"Is that a lighthouse?" Usopp asked tentatively, looking at the tall structure in the distance."Yes," Nami nodded. "The entrance to the Grand Line is at the end of that light!""Is the Grand Line right there?" Luffy's eyes were filled with longing for the unknown adventure."Alright, to celebrate the ship entering the great ocean, let's have a launching ceremony!"Sanji's words received unanimous approval from his comrades.Pirates needed a sense of ceremony!A wooden barrel was placed in front of everyone, and they each placed a foot on it."I'm here to find the ALL-BLUE!""I'm here to become the Pirate King!""I'm here to become a Great Swordsman!""I'm here to draw a map of the world!""I... I'm here to become a brave warrior of the sea!"Seeing everyone's gaze turn toward him, Ben smiled and placed his foot on it as well."I'm going to travel the whole world and see all its beautiful scenery!"A flash of tenderness crossed Nami's eyes as she heard Ben's words.This guy..."Let's go, to the Grand Line!" Luffy shouted with a grin, and then everyone stomped down together, smashing the barrel!This also signaled the official beginning of a legend!..."What are you tinkering with here?" Nami asked with a hint of confusion as she watched Bencrouching and fiddling with a rod."Ah, making some gear for you." Ben wiped the sweat from his forehead and presented the object in his hand like a treasure. "Ta-da!!""Look!""What is it?" Nami said with an 'are you a child' look. "Isn't it just an ordinary rod?"Well, the two ends were a bit larger."No, no, no." Ben wagged his index finger mysteriously. "This is a great item that can change the local weather.""Besides you, everyone on this ship has their own way of fighting.""I thought you needed a weapon, and you happen to be particularly sensitive to the weather.""So I made this."The Universal Clima-Tact!He then explained how to use it, and Nami's eyes sparkled as she listened. "This is for me?!""Thank you so much!" Nami lunged forward and gave Ben a big kiss on the cheek."Ahem, so, about the money for the Materials...""You want money for making something for your girlfriend?" Nami looked at Ben as if he were that kind of person. She then manipulated the clima-tactto create a mirage, hiding herself.Ben was left speechless. "The point is, you don't usually give me money anyway."Whatever, he had his own secret stash anyway, hehe.After tidying up his things, he heard the noisy sounds outside. "Time to go out and move around a bit."With his hands in his pockets, Ben leisurely walked outside."What's that on the sea in the distance? There are so many sea birds," Usopp said from the crow's nest in confusion. "Maybe there's a big fish underneath.""Sea birds do like to stay above big fish," Sanji said, taking a puff of his cigarette. "Luffy, catch it. It'll be perfect for dinner.""Okay!" Luffy nodded and then swung his arm out fiercely. "Gum-Gum Pistol!"
Looking at Luffy's stretching arm, Ben instinctively felt something was wrong.Sure enough, something happened when he pulled his arm back.Seeing the arm sweeping toward him, Benimmediately ducked and dodged Luffy's attack.Zoro wasn't so lucky. Sleeping on high ground, he was knocked flying by Luffy and fell into the sea."Ah, sorry, Zoro." Luffy glanced back and said without any sincerity."Hey!" Zoro, pulled up by a rope, grabbed Luffy by the collar, his eyes looking extremely fierce."Ah, sorry..." This time, Luffy's apology was much more sincere."I'm going to cut you down sooner or later!""Count me in when the time comes." Ben nodded in agreement; it wasn't the first day he wanted to kill this bastard Luffy."This is a little girl, right?" Nami, having deactivated her Mirage, squatted on the ground and looked at the girl. "Where did you guys get her?""Gah!" Usopp looked at Nami with a startled expression. "Where did you pop out from?!""From the sea, Luffy pulled her back just now." Sanjipointed to the distant water. "I wonder whose little girl this is."Suddenly, the little girl's stomach growled. Sanjiimmediately showed a gentle expression. "Looks like she's hungry.""Ma~""I'll go cook.""Food, food!" Luffy immediately perked up at those words. "Food!"Looking at Luffy's back, Zoro sighed.Ben stepped forward, patted his shoulder, and said, "There's no helping it. Who told us to join a pirate crew?""Let's go, it's time to eat.""Fine." Zoro nodded in resignation, though if given the chance, he wouldn't mind giving that bastard Luffy a beating.Sanji moved quickly, and before long, a sumptuous lunch appeared on the table.The little girl was attracted by the aroma and woke up."You're awake. You're more energetic than I thought." Nami smiled gently. "Did you encounter a shipwreck?""How are you feeling now?""Mhm..." The little girl nodded, agreeing with Nami's words.Nami smiled, not minding the girl's reaction. "What's your name?""Shouldn't you introduce yourself before asking someone else's name?"Nami felt a bit helpless; this little sister...Still, she introduced herself. "That's true. I'm Nami.""The one wearing glasses standing at the door is Ben.""The one cooking soup is Sanji.""The long-nosed guy next to you is Usopp.""The one drinking is Zoro.""And...""I'm Luffy!" Luffy introduced himself with a grin. "I'm the Captain of this pirate ship!"As soon as he said this, the little girl was stunned. "Pirates?!"Had she just escaped a den of thieves only to enter a circle of bandits?Heavens, did you have to treat her like this?!She was just a poor little girl!Chapter 27: Bullying a Little Girl? Die!"Ah~""So your name is Apis." Nami stepped forward and took Apis into her arms. "That's a very nice name.""Is it? Thank you." Apis smiled and didn't resist Nami's embrace."Just what kind of trouble did you get into?" Zorolooked at Apis curiously. "Since you had to escape, it means you weren't a guest on that warship, right?"At the same time, he was a bit puzzled. Logically, the Marines shouldn't have time to bother with such a minor character."What? So you're a bad person."Hearing Luffy's words, Apis was immediately displeased. "I am not!""How could I do anything bad? I'm so small!""But...""I can't say the reason."Seeing Apis hesitate, Ben smiled. "If she doesn't want to say, she must have her reasons.""Right?"If he remembered correctly, this little girl should be the one from Warship Island.The Millennium Dragon..."Yeah." Apis nodded, her expression becoming a bit embarrassed. "Sorry.""It's okay." Nami reached out and rubbed Apis's head. "If you don't want to say, then don't.""But you can at least tell us where you're from."Apis paused for a moment, then nodded. "Mhm...""I'm from Warship Island.""Warship Island." Nami tapped her lip. "Sounds a bit familiar. Let me look for it."After settling Apis into a seat, Nami got up to look for a map.Once she found it and took a look, Nami located Warship Island. "Ah, here it is.""It's not particularly far from us.""What do you want to do?" Nami asked Apis. "Do you want to go back to Warship Island?""We're planning to head to the Grand Line now."If the little girl wanted to go back, she believed Luffywould agree to give her a ride.Apis hesitated upon hearing this. "I know you saved me, but if I cause you more trouble...""I do want to go back to the island."If she relied on her own strength, she wouldn't be able to make it back."What do you say, Luffy?" Ben looked at Luffy, signaling him to make the decision. After all, he was the Captain."Ah, sure." Luffy grinned. "It's not particularly far anyway, right?"Luffy had no objection to dropping off the little girl along the way.He'd just treat it as an adventure before reaching the Grand Line~"You heard him~" Sanji looked at Apis and smiled. He wasn't surprised at all that Luffy made this decision."Really?!" Apis said with a look of pleasant surprise. "Are you really willing to take me back?!""Yeah.""That's great! Thank you, Luffy!" Apis jumped around happily in the cabin. "Thank you all so much."Otherwise, she really wouldn't have known how to get back.Ben pushed up his glasses, thinking about whether to get some blood from that Dragon Clan member for research.After a moment, Ben abandoned the idea.He shouldn't dabble in genetic-level things yet. Since this world had miraculous things like Devil Fruits, it would be better to study Devil Fruits than dragons.Thinking of this, Ben looked at Luffy and said, "Luffy, give me some of your blood in a bit.""What for?""It'll be useful.""Oh, okay." Luffy nodded without the slightest suspicion.Ben was very satisfied with Luffy's trust."Alright, guys, target: Warship Island. Let's go!""Oh!"..."Don't worry, we'll be at Warship Island soon." Nami looked at the restless Apis and comforted her. "You'll be able to go home then."They were already near Warship Island and would arrive at their destination soon."Mhm." Apis nodded her little head, but her worries weren't about that..."Hey, we've got a situation!" Usopp shouted from the crow's nest. "Marines ahead!""Marines?" Hearing those words, Apis shivered as if she had heard something terrifying.This left Nami very puzzled. To ordinary people, shouldn't the Marines be righteous figures?Could the Marines on this island be just like that Colonel Nezumi from before?Thinking of this, Nami frowned and looked at Benbeside her. "Ben...""Yeah, I know."Ben reached out and patted the girl's head, then calmly walked outside.
Hmm?" Apis looked at Ben in confusion, not understanding what he meant."Don't worry. With him around, a mere Marinepresence is nothing to worry about.""Let's go out and take a look together.""Okay." Apis bit her lip, praying in her heart that it wasn't those people.On the deck, Sanji looked at the distant fleet of warships with some doubt. "Why are there so many warships?""Ah hahahaha, they must be here to catch me!" Luffysaid with a proud look. "After all, I'm so powerful that they can't catch me without deploying a massive fleet!"After all, he was a pirate with a bounty of fifty million Berries!"No..." Apis took a step back, saying with a face full of fear, "They're here to catch me.""They're ships from the 8th Branch!""I escaped from that ship!"When the others heard Apis say this, their expressions immediately changed."So it's these guys who are bullying you?" Luffyglanced at the distant warships. "Ben, blow them up.""Okay." Ben nodded, took some flying bomb robots out of his pocket, and tossed them into the air. "Go, little guys."The flight speed of these robots was extremely fast, and they soon approached the distant warships!"Oh?" Ben watched their gun barrels rotating and narrowed his eyes. "Are they preparing to blast us?"What a pity~I won't give you the chance!"Fire!" the Marine Lieutenant Commander waved his hand; he absolutely could not let that young girl escape!"Yes, sir!"Shells were loaded, aimed, and prepared for firing!Just a second before they ignited, Ben raised a finger and whispered, "Detonate!"Boom!The terrifying explosions instantly blasted open the bottoms of all the warships, and they slowly sank into the sea!Chapter 28: Dragon Clan?!"Is this Warship Island?" Ben looked at the massive island that resembled a warship with some surprise. "It really does look like a warship."Was this thing really naturally formed?"Of course, otherwise why do you think it's called Warship Island?" Nami looked at Ben speechlessly, then crouched down to look at Apis and said, "Let's go, let's head down.""Mhm."After they went down, they were surrounded by a large number of villagers. "Pirates, you're not welcome here. Leave immediately, or we won't be polite!""That's right, that's right!""Everyone, they aren't bad people!" Apis stood out, blocking the front of the group and saying, "They're the ones who brought me back.""Apis?" The villagers were stunned. "Why are you...""So you're alright, Apis." Bokudan stepped out from behind with a kind expression. "That's wonderful.""Grandpa Bokudan!" Apis rushed forward happily and threw herself into his embrace."Well~" Luffy scratched his head. "Since we've delivered her, let's head out."It just so happened they still needed to get to the Grand Line."Everyone, please wait a moment." Bokudan called out to Luffy and the others. "Please come to my home so I can show you some hospitality.""Consider it a reward for bringing Apis back.""Is there food?""Yes.""Then let's go." Luffy walked toward Bokudan very naturally, making the others look at him speechlessly. Do you only think about eating?However, since the elderly man had invited them, they couldn't very well refuse."Everyone, disperse now." Bokudan waved his hand, then led the Straw Hat Pirates back to his home."Please sit, everyone. The buns will be ready soon.""About how long?""Four or five hours."Usopp slumped to the ground. "Four or five hours?"Was he going to starve to death?"Well~" Bokudan waved his hand. "As the saying goes, a hasty man can't eat hot tofu.""While we wait, why don't you listen to me tell the story of this island?"He then began a narration that lasted for several hours.The Straw Hat Pirates were all nodding off as they listened....At night, after eating, everyone had fallen asleep.Apis took the opportunity to quietly sneak out with some things to find Dragon Grandpa; she wanted to bring him food.Luffy and Ben opened their eyes, exchanged a glance, and followed her."I had a feeling this girl was hiding something from us," Ben said, stroking his chin. "Let's follow and see.""Mhm." Luffy nodded.They soon tracked her to a cave and saw something inside that astonished them."This is...""A dragon?" Luffy's mouth hung open as he looked at the creature before him, completely stunned. Then he rushed forward excitedly. "It's a dragon! A real, living dragon! So cool!""Eh, Luffy, Ben?!" Apis was dumbfounded. "How did you...""Did you really think you could pull something off right under our noses?" Ben said somewhat helplessly. "Little girl, you're still too green."Seeing Apis's expression turn sour, Ben comforted her, "Don't worry, we're not interested in this fellow. We won't hurt him.""Really?" Apis glanced at Ben, then at Luffy, and immediately bristled. "Get down from there!"At that moment, Luffy was sprawled directly on the dragon's head, rubbing his face against it vigorously. "This is so cool!""This is great! Where did you come from?!"Dragon Grandpa opened his eyes upon hearing this and made a weak sound.This caused both Luffy and Apis to quiet down.After a moment, Luffy said, "I see. So you want to go back to your hometown."This left Apis a bit stunned. How did Luffy..."Dragon Grandpa says he's willing to be friends with you. He says you're a good person.""But how do you know Dragon Grandpa's wish?"Apis's heart was full of doubt. Could it be that Luffywas the same kind of person as her?"I don't know." Luffy scratched his head. "I just know.""The ability to hear the Voice of All Things, perhaps." Ben walked up with his arms crossed. "As for you, Apis, you must have eaten a Devil Fruit.""Yes." Apis nodded. "I ate the Whisper-Whisper Fruit.""After that, I could hear the inner voices of animals.""That's how I was able to get to know Dragon Grandpa."Ben nodded. This could be considered...A twist of fate~An interesting adventure.The Dragon Clan—to think that this world actually had dragons. Even if it was this kind of giant lizard, it was still a dragon."Where did he say his hometown is?""A place called Lost Island." Apis wrinkled her small nose. "But I'm not sure where that is. When I asked the Marines, I just ended up getting into trouble.""They want Dragon Grandpa's dragon bone, which is why they were trying to catch me.""What a bunch of hateful guys." Luffy immediately became unhappy upon hearing this. "Don't be afraid, I'll help you.""As for Lost Island, that old man Bokudanmentioned it earlier. Didn't it sink a long time ago?" Ben pondered, stroking his chin. "Could it still be there?""Yes." Apis nodded. "But Dragon Grandpa says that island will surface again soon.""I see..." Luffy stood up and said, "Alright, it's decided!""We'll help Dragon Grandpa get back to his hometown!""Is that really okay?" Apis said with a look of surprise. "You're willing to help me?"If that were the case, her chances of success would be much higher!"Since Luffy has said so, we have no choice but to act." Ben pushed up his glasses and looked calmly at Dragon Grandpa. "Old man, I'll build a flying machine later that can carry you.""You just need to point the way for Apis."Trying to push him using other methods would be too troublesome and time-consuming.Instead of that, it would be better to create a flying machine that could lift Dragon Grandpa.At the same time, he was trying to remember where Lost Island was located.He remembered having seen it before."Dragon Grandpa says thank you." Apis looked at Ben and smiled. "When do we set off?"
Tomorrow," Ben said, glancing outside. "I need to finish making the item.""We set out tomorrow morning.""Good!"Chapter 29: Dragon Wings!After half the night, Ben created a tool that could support Dragon Grandpa's flight."This is the flying tool you made for Dragon Grandpa?" Apis leaned in to take a look. "Isn't this just a pair of wings?""Don't underestimate these wings~" Ben introduced them with a proud look. "You just need to place this on Dragon Grandpa, and he can flap the wings according to his thoughts and fly into the sky!"That's right, it was just that unscientific.He then placed the wings on Dragon Grandpa, and they adhered firmly."So cool!" Stars filled Luffy and Usopp's eyes. "What is this called?!""Uh..." Ben hesitated for a moment. "Let's call it Dragon Wings."It's on Dragon Grandpa anyway, isn't it?Yeah, I'm truly a Genius at naming."Yosh!" Luffy waved his hand. "Since we're all ready now, let's head out!""Let's help Dragon Grandpa return to his hometown!""Oh!""Wait a second." Looking at his enthusiastic companions, Ben spoke up. "I think I remember where that so-called Lost Island is.""Eh?" Everyone was a bit dumbfounded. "How do you know?"Aren't we all companions on the same ship?Hearing Ben's words, Dragon Grandpa also opened his eyes and looked at him."Well~""I do come from the New World, after all." Benwaved his hand calmly. "I've seen descriptions of it in some ancient texts and documents.""Dragon Grandpa is an ancient species of the Dragon Clan. The ancient texts say that his hometown—that so-called Lost Island—is actually located to the east of the peak that looks like a warship!""If I'm guessing correctly, it's to the east of this Warship Island."Dragon Grandpa's eyes widened instantly upon hearing Ben's words.In that moment, he began to recall scenes from the past.It really seemed to be here!"But didn't we just come from the east yesterday?" Sanji looked puzzled; there was nothing there."It's probably just not time yet," Ben said after a moment's thought."Dragon Grandpa says Ben is right," Apis said with a look of pleasant surprise. "The Lost Island is indeed to the east of the peak that looks like a warship!""The reason it didn't appear yesterday was simply because the appointed time hadn't arrived yet.""And today is the appointed day!"Apis was so happy; Dragon Grandpa could finally return home!"Now that we've found the location, let's go quickly." Luffy adjusted his hat and smiled. "Let's go see this so-called Lost Island!""Oh!"..."Damn it!" Whirlwind Eric looked at Warship Islandwith a twisted expression. "Those bastards actually dared to use bombs on me?!"If he hadn't been lucky, he would have died in that shipwreck long ago!That little girl is from Warship Island; she must have returned here by now.And those damn pirates!Just wait, I'll definitely kill every last one of you!At that moment, Whirlwind Eric suddenly saw a green flying object appear in the distance."Hm?" Whirlwind Eric froze for a second, then narrowed his eyes to look closer. When he saw it clearly, his pupils suddenly constricted. "That is?!""A Millennium Dragon!!""I didn't expect them to actually exist?"The Marines on the warship were also a bit dumbfounded. They had thought such creatures only existed in legends. Who would have thought they were real?!"What are you all standing around for?!" Whirlwind Eric barked. "Sail the ship over there!"He'd have plenty of chances to deal with those bastards, but he had to catch this Millennium Dragon.Because once he captured this dragon, he would get a massive amount of money!Who would turn down money?Soon, the warship reached the shore, and Whirlwind Eric rushed out immediately. "You guys, keep an eye on the sea.""As soon as the Straw Hat Pirates appear on the water, blow them up!""Yes, sir!""Hmph, don't think you can leave unscathed after provoking me." Whirlwind Eric sneered as he ran forward.Dragon Grandpa was a large target in the sky, so it wasn't difficult for Whirlwind Eric to find them.He soon cornered Luffy and the others in the forest."Hm?" Glancing at this uninvited guest, the group frowned. "Who is this guy?""Forgotten so soon?!" Whirlwind Eric said coldly. "I am Whirlwind Eric!""A Sickle-Sickle Fruit Ability User!""Thanks for your 'care' earlier; I almost died at sea.""Oh~" Ben nodded as if realizing something. "You're that Bounty Hunter, right?""You were on that warship yesterday too?"Then his expression became a bit strange. Is this guy's life that tough?An Ability User fell into the ocean and didn't drown?"That's right, it's me!" Whirlwind Eric said through gritted teeth. "Since I've run into you today, none of you should think about leaving alive!""Straw Hat Luffy, Scientist Ben, your heads are worth quite a lot of money!"He glanced at the sky and saw that the Millennium Dragon had landed in a clearing not far away, clearly waiting for this group.That's perfect.Once he finished off everyone here, he would just need to cut off that Millennium Dragon's wings!Speaking of which, why were that Millennium Dragon's wings so weird? Why did they look like two different things?"Sickles, huh..." Zoro stepped forward, grinning. "Leave this guy to me. You guys go on ahead."Ben glanced at Zoro, then at Whirlwind Eric, and said, "Be careful, this guy isn't like the swordsmen you're used to.""I know." Zoro nodded. Since the opponent was a Sickle-Sickle Fruit Ability User, it was very likely he could turn himself into a blade or launch blade-like attacks.But this kind of enemy was actually easier for him to deal with.If he wasn't a pure swordsman, his strength wouldn't be that great."Then it's in your hands, Zoro." Luffy called out to his companions as they ran into the distance.This was the trust between companions!"Alright, it's our turn." Zoro grinned. "I hope you can give me an entertaining fight.""Arrogant!" Whirlwind Eric looked at Zoro coldly. "I'll kill you, then I'll finish off all of them!"Chapter 30: The Meaning of LifeAfter boarding, the group steered the pirate ship toward the east.They were quickly spotted by the warship on the sea."It's the Straw Hat Pirates!" a soldier shouted. "Major, should we attack?!""Of course!" The Marine Major waved his hand. "Sink them!"At the same time, he ordered his subordinates to contact Admiral Nelson, because he had seen that giant Millennium Dragon!Accompanied by the roar of cannons, several shells hit the water around the going merry, stirring up massive waves.This also caught the attention of the Straw Hat Pirates."Marines?" Ben looked into the distance with annoyance. "What, haven't they learned their lesson yet?"He had just sunk several of their warships, and now they were back?"We can't let them leave here," Sanji said with a grim face. "If they spread the word that Warship Island has a Millennium Dragon, this island..."If the news reached that so-called Admiral Nelson, he would definitely come here.The people here might end up suffering!Luffy also understood this and spoke up. "Ben.""Understood," Ben said flatly. "Since they dare to look for trouble with us, then they can all stay here."He then took a Flying Bomb Robot out of his pocket and launched it."Let's go.""Okay."Seeing that the Straw Hat Pirates were ignoring him and sailing away, the Major's face darkened. "They're actually ignoring us?""Are they looking down on us?!""Chase them!"
Chapter 23"Major, we've already established contact with Admiral Nelson. He told us not to lose track of the Straw Hat Pirates.""Understood." The Major waved his hand grandly. "Chase after them and sink them...""Boom!""Boom! Boom! Boom!"A massive roar echoed across the sea, blasting up hundreds of tons of seawater!Immediately afterward, a huge whirlpool appeared on the surface, sucking the wreckage of the warship into it before finally vanishing.This also signified that not a single person survived!As for the members of the Straw Hat Pirates, not one of them even spared a glance back!..."Is this the Lost Island?" Nami said with a look of shock, watching the island that had partially surfaced in the distance. "To think it was actually submerged at the bottom of the sea...""Look, what's that flying in the distance?!" Usopppointed toward the distant sky, then shouted after putting on his goggles, "It's a dragon!""A Millennium Dragon just like Dragon Grandpa!"There are actually so many?"Dragon Grandpa says those are his companions!" Apis said with a face full of joy. "Dragon Grandpasays this is the time they agreed upon.""To return here once every thousand years!""Also, Dragon Grandpa says thank you to all of you."Without your help, Dragon Grandpa would have had no way to reach this place.After all, she was simply too weak..."Ah, you're welcome." Luffy waved his hand, not minding it at all."I see." Nami said as she watched the island that had now completely surfaced. "The name 'Millennium Dragon' doesn't refer to their age.""It's because they return here once every thousand years."It's truly miraculous."Let's go, let's check out the island together." Benwas the first to jump off the ship, walking onto the island to begin his observations."Interesting.""Was it formed naturally?" After observing for a long while, Ben came to this conclusion.At the same time, he felt some sentiment; this world really was wonderful.All sorts of strange phenomena existed.This further strengthened his resolve to travel through this world properly.After returning to his companions, Ben looked at everyone with some confusion. "What's wrong? Why is everyone's mood so low?""Dragon Grandpa is dying..." Apis looked up at Ben, her eyes filled with tears. "He says he won't make it much longer."Ben fell silent for a moment, then sighed. "You should be happy for him; the falling leaf returns to its roots.""To be able to die in one's own hometown is also a kind of happiness."Otherwise, he wouldn't have fought so hard to return here."Am I right, old man Dragon?" Ben glanced at the Millennium Dragon, and the other was also looking at him.Although he could no longer speak, Ben could still read the meaning expressed in his eyes.It was two words.Thank you.Apis bit her lip, trying hard not to let herself cry.But when she saw Dragon Grandpa close his eyes completely, she could no longer hold it in.Her childhood was very lonely; this past year was the happiest time of her life!Luffy stepped forward, placed his hand on Apis's head, and said, "He says that in these thousand years...""...this past year living with Apis was his happiest time.""Luffy?" Nami looked at Luffy in surprise. "You can understand the Dragon Language?""It's a feeling, I guess.""That's so casual...""Anyway, I'm not lying." Luffy nodded with an expression that said he was definitely right.In any case, his feelings were never wrong."But..." Apis said through her tears, "But didn't Dragon Grandpa say he would get better after returning here?!"Why did he fall down and not get back up?!Get up and talk to me!The others looked at Apis, momentarily unsure how to comfort her."Apis." Ben's gentle voice appeared by Apis's ear. "Look over there.""Huh?" Apis followed Ben's finger and was instantly stunned.Because in that direction, a baby dragon was currently working hard to peck through its eggshell!Watching the baby dragon hatch, especially its eyes, Apis's tears fell once again. "Dragon Grandpa...""It seems this island is not just the place where Millennium Dragons go to die, but also the place where they gain new life," Ben said with some emotion.The eyes of this young dragon were exactly the same as the eyes of the deceased Dragon Grandpa."Yes, I understand now." Having finished communicating with the young dragon, Apis wiped her tears; she now fully understood the meaning of this place.Just as Ben said, this wasn't just where dragons died, but also where they nurtured life!"I've decided!" Apis said with a firm face. "I want to be like my ancestors and protect this place!""That will be very hard work~""I'm not afraid." Apis shook her head; she could feel that this was her mission.Ben smiled, then glanced at Luffy and said, "Luffy, what do you say?""Yeah." Luffy punched his palm. "Guys, let's go.""We're going to take down those Marines who have their eyes on this place!"At the very least, they had to help Apis resolve this problem before they left!Chapter 31: I'm Very Strong!After Zoro finished off that Bounty Hunter, he returned to the ship.However, this time he took Ben's advice and threw the man into the ocean.No matter how good his luck was, it was impossible for him to survive while heavily injured.After all, he was a Devil Fruit User.After sending Apis home, everyone returned to the sea, and at the same time, they encountered Admiral Nelson who was rushing this way!"Admiral Nelson, we've spotted the Straw Hat Pirates!""Oh?" Admiral Nelson's face lit up with joy. "Is that Millennium Dragon with them?""We haven't seen it!""Is that so?" Admiral Nelson thought for a moment and came to a realization. "It seems they've already killed that dragon.""The dragon bone must be on their ship. Quick, take them down!"As long as he got the Millennium Dragon's bone, he could obtain eternal life!Thinking of this, Admiral Nelson was so excited that the fat all over his body was trembling.He, too, could achieve immortality!"So many warships?" Nami looked at the fleet of warships in the distance, a bit dumbfounded. "Isn't this a bit too much?!"Did they mobilize their entire force?Wait, even when they destroyed the 16th Branch, there weren't this many troops and warships.Could these people be from the Grand Line?!"A lot?" Ben's eyes flashed with a sharp light. "To me, this doesn't count as many."By visual estimation, this fleet had about ten warships, which was on the scale of a Buster Call.It just didn't have any Navy Vice Admirals on board."Sail the ship over there." Luffy said with a flat expression. "I'm going to personally go up and send that bastard flying."Admiral Nelson, was it? To think he dared to bully Apis.Hearing this, no one was surprised; this was exactly in line with Luffy's character.Seeing the Straw Hat Pirates' ship charging straight toward them, Admiral Nelson was a bit stunned. "What are they doing? Are they looking for death?"Instead of running away upon seeing his fleet, they actually dared to charge forward?"Hmph, fine, it saves us some trouble." Admiral Nelson waved his hand. "Don't fire the cannons. Wait until they get close, then take them down!""But, Admiral Nelson, there are two wanted criminals on their ship.""One is worth 50 million Berries, and the other is 30 million Berries."With fierce people of that strength, do we really want to engage in a boarding battle?"Hmm?" Admiral Nelson glared at the Marinebeside him and roared, "Are you teaching me how to do things?""So what if one is 30 million Berries? So what if the other is 50 million Berries?!""If you can't take them down, what use do I have for raising you all!""Stop talking nonsense. If anyone dares to open their mouth again, I'll chop them up and throw them into the sea to feed the fish!"
Yes!" Seeing the reaction of the people below, Admiral Nelson nodded with satisfaction. "Rest assured, once we obtain the Millennium Dragon's dragon bones, I won't treat you poorly."After all, these were his own men; he couldn't go too far.Thus, the going merry approached the enemy's flagship in this strange atmosphere."What do they mean?" Zoro asked, his face full of confusion. "They didn't even fire a cannon?"By rights, shouldn't they have fired a round of cannonballs first?Not only did they not do that, but they actually let them approach so easily..."Maybe the enemy is just too confident." Sanji took a drag of his cigarette and raised an eyebrow. "Marimo, how about one ship each?""You think I'm afraid?" Zoro curled his lip in disdain. "I'll definitely take mine down first."It really was true that no matter the time, they were always competing with each other."Gum-Gum Rocket!" Luffy stretched out his arms and launched himself directly forward!"Hey, at least wait for us!""Forget it, don't worry about him." Ben waved his hand and then said to the two of them, "Since you want to go up there and fight, then go ahead.""But be quick, otherwise if the pirate ship gets too far away, you won't be able to come back.""Got it." (x2)After watching the two of them leave, Ben glanced at Nami and said, "Let's go, we just need to head straight forward.""Aren't we going to fight?" Usopp looked at the warships preparing to surround them and said, "If it's just the three of them, there's no way they can handle so many enemies."They wouldn't be able to do it even if they were worked to death."The main target is Admiral Nelson." Ben crossed his arms and said calmly, "The others don't matter.""After all, only that idiot would believe that the Millennium Dragon's dragon bones can grant immortality."Otherwise, why wouldn't the Gorosei have made a move?With CP0's intelligence capabilities, finding this place would be too easy!So the truth of the matter is, the dragon bones don't have that effect at all!"Stop the ship, you are under arrest!" A lieutenant colonel jumped onto the going merry and said with a fierce expression, "Otherwise, we will execute you on the spot!""Who gave you the courage to board our ship?" Benglanced at the lieutenant colonel, his face showing a hint of dissatisfaction. "Don't you know that doing this will dirty our ship?""As expected of a pirate with a bounty of 30 million Berries, your morale is truly unusual.""But having encountered me, your journey ends here!"Watching the lieutenant colonel charging at him with a long sword, intending to hack him to death, Ben sighed. "Do I look that weak?""Activate combat mode."As the words fell, Ben's glasses underwent a dramatic change instantly!At this moment, the glasses could analyze all of the enemy's movements and inform Ben in advance of the optimal action to take!And the current prompt was~ Move to the left!Ben moved his feet to the left with an indifferent expression, dodging the lieutenant colonel's attack while simultaneously drawing a utility knife and stabbing it hard into the opponent's kidney."Pfft!""Argh!" The intense pain made the lieutenant colonel's eyes widen. He couldn't believe the opponent could actually dodge his attack and manage to land a hit on him at the same time."My dear Marine gentleman." Ben walked up to the lieutenant colonel with an indifferent expression and said, "You don't think my bounty amount is because of my identity as a scientist, do you?""Actually~""I'm also very strong!" Immediately, he kicked the lieutenant colonel in the face, sending him flying away.Since you chose to take action, you should be prepared to die.Just at this moment, Luffy's roar came from the distance, "Gum-Gum Rocket!""Bam!"A large, fat figure suddenly flew off the warship, shouting that he would definitely return.Ben's mouth twitched. "Really..."Well~ hearing such a voice now actually feels somewhat nostalgic.Admiral Nelson had been dealt with, so there was no point in staying here anymore.Looking at Zoro and Sanji flying back in the distance, pulled along by Luffy, Ben smiled and narrowed his eyes.Grand Line, here I come.Chapter 32: An Interesting Adventure~"What's wrong, why the long face?" Ben looked at Nami, who was holding the map, with some confusion. "What is it?""Come here and look." Nami said, looking troubled. "I feel like something is strange. The map shows that the entrance to the Grand Line is on the mountain. Does that mean we have to climb the mountain?"Rush up the mountain along the current to the top? Is that reasonable?"You don't know?" Ben looked a bit surprised and pointed at the map, saying, "There is a reverse current here that leads directly to the other side, the Grand Line.""In other words, it really is on the mountain?!" Usoppleaned in. "How amazing.""Are you sure we won't crash into the mountain..." Zoro hesitated and said, "Hey, Nami, are you confident?""I don't know." Nami shook her head. "This is my first time here too...""But as long as we follow the current, there shouldn't be any problems."That's what the map showed, and that's what her intuition was telling her as well."Then there's no problem." Luffy waved his hand. "Let's go!""No, wait a minute." Usopp grabbed Luffy and said, "Ben, where is that Dragon Wing you researched?""Is it still around?"If they had that thing, they wouldn't need to follow the current, right?"I left it with Old Man Dragon." Ben pushed up his glasses and said, "Besides, that was just a one-time use item.""Why would I take it back?""What, are you planning to keep that thing on the ship?""The idea is good, but it's not suitable." Ben waved his hand. "That was made according to Old Man Dragon's specifications; it doesn't fit our ship."It was too small.It couldn't carry their ship at all and would even affect the balance of the ship itself. Maybe a gust of wind would blow, and they would be destroyed and die."Then what do we do..." Usopp's face turned a bit green. "What if we crash into the mountain..."Usopp couldn't even imagine such an outcome. He would die a horrible death, wouldn't he!"Although your concerns are not wrong, but..." Zoropointed into the distance. "There's no time to think about these things now."Because the so-called entrance was already in front of them!"Hey, the helm is getting a bit out of control." Sanjishouted from inside the cabin. "The power of the current is huge!""Usopp, come help quickly!""Coming, coming!"Ben glanced at the entrance to Reverse Mountain, which was now right in front of them, and revealed a mysterious smile.He was about to see that persistent 'little guy' soon, wasn't he?Should he take him away?After thinking about it for a moment, he abandoned the idea. There were too many Sea Kings in the New World; if things went wrong, this little guy would get hurt."It's okay, just as long as we follow the current inside!" Nami glanced at the entrance ahead, her expression somewhat nervous. "If we deviate, the ship will be destroyed and we will all die.""Sanji, Usopp, shift to the right a bit!""Right!" Usopp and Sanji used all their might, struggling to turn the helm, but unfortunately, their strength was simply unable to resist nature."I don't believe it!""Snap~""!!" Sanji looked at the broken helm in his hands, and his entire being just turned to stone. "Did I cause trouble...""You idiot!" Zoro was almost furious to death. At such a critical moment, you actually broke the helm?!Wouldn't they crash into the mountain then?!"Ben, is there any way?!" Nami immediately looked at Ben, hoping he could come up with a solution.Ben pointed at Luffy. "Just let Luffy turn into a balloon and bounce the ship back onto the track."There was no need for him to research any inventions at all.Luffy glanced at the structure at the entrance and immediately jumped over. "Gum-Gum Balloon!"He forcefully shoved the pirate ship back onto the right path!And Luffy also used his fruit ability to grab the arm of Zoro, who was standing outside, and pulled himself back.Watching Zoro, who deliberately threw Luffy onto the deck, causing his head to smash into the ground, Ben's expression became quite interesting.Was this guy doing it on purpose?Zoro noticed Ben's gaze, raised his thumb, and revealed a mouthful of big white teeth
Chapter 25The meaning was clear: I've been waiting for this opportunity for a long time.Ben's mouth twitched; you really do hold a grudge."Everyone, hold on tight!" Nami said, looking at the pirate ship moving at high speed. "If you fall off, it's really over!"With currents of this magnitude, even if you can swim, you won't survive.But despite this, the others didn't seem to care.This was the first time they had encountered such a situation, so how could they not be a little joyful?Looking at the happy group, Ben walked to the side and sat down, silently admiring this spectacular scene.Well~This is the meaning of his coming to this world, isn't it?Truly...Wonderful~..."Another leisurely day~" Crocus lay on his chair with a look of comfort, holding the latest newspaper. "It's so good that little Laboon can be so quiet."Hmm, it seems that shot of Sedative was quite useful."Hmm?" Crocus's Observation Haki suddenly sensed a ship intruding outside, which surprised him. "Newcomers?"Just then, a Giant Squid appeared on the sea surface, looking as if it were about to destroy the pirate ship.Just as he was about to take action, the squid suddenly exploded violently.This piqued his interest. "Oh?""A Devil Fruit Ability User?"Interesting~Outside, on the Straw Hat Pirates' ship, Nami was hugging Ben and shouting, "I thought I was going to die for a second!""I'm here; it's just a tiny little octopus.""Tiny?" Usopp looked at the Giant Squid, which was several times larger than the pirate ship, and roared, "Do you have some kind of misunderstanding of that word, you bastard!""It's been a long time since I've seen such impressive newcomers.""Who is it?!" Sanji and Zoro immediately became alert, their eyes fixed on the house on the small island in the distance.The voice came from there!Having just arrived at the Grand Line and encountering such a thing, they had to be cautious.Chapter 33: The Crew Member of the Pirate King!Sanji looked tensely at the fierce-looking old man, watching him walk all the way to a sun lounger, lie down, and read a newspaper without saying another word.But that look just now was too oppressive, causing Sanji to explode instantly."Say something at least, you bastard!"Are you looking down on me!"Do you want to fight? Bring it on!" Usopp roared, hiding behind Zoro.Ben watched speechlessly. Could you at least stand out in the open when you shout?Hearing this, Crocus looked at them with a terrifying expression. Just when Sanji thought he was going to move, Crocus spoke: "Stop it, someone will die!"Hearing his words, Usopp was scared senseless.Why is this old man's presence so oppressive!Zoro even gripped the hilt of his sword. Was he about to make a move?Sanji's face twitched as he asked tentatively, "Who did you say would die?!"With such a strong Aura, could this old man be a master?"Me," Crocus said frankly."You?!" Sanji roared with a shark-like mouth, nearly dying of anger. If you're the one who's going to die, why is your Aura so terrifying? Are you trying to scare me?!Damn it, he actually dares to underestimate us.Looking at the agitated Sanji who wanted to go up and fight, Zoro reached out and patted Sanji's shoulder, saying, "Alright, don't get so worked up."Why lower yourself to the level of an old man?"Hey, old man, can you tell us.""Where is this, and who are you?"Crocus looked at the smiling Zoro with bloodshot eyes and said with an incredibly terrifying gaze, "When asking someone a question, isn't it polite to first state your own name?!"Seeing that oppressive gaze, Zoro hesitated and said, "That... is true. My apologies.""My name is Roro..." Before Zoro could finish, Crocusinterrupted, "My name is Crocus!""I am the lighthouse keeper of the Twin Capes. I am 71 years old.""Gemini, blood type AB."Hearing Crocus's words, Zoro's veins popped with anger. What is this bastard's deal? Is he looking for trouble?!"Can I slash him!""Calm down..." Sanji patted Zoro's shoulder. Why are you getting angry at an old man?Seeing this scene, Ben couldn't help but laugh out loud; it was just too comical."Old man, you're the Pirate King's doctor, aren't you?" Ben stepped forward with a smile.Crocus immediately stopped talking and looked at Ben with a strange expression, waiting for him to continue.He was indeed a crew member of the Pirate King, but not many people knew this information.Could he be from the World Government?Thinking of this, Crocus's eyes gradually became terrifying. If that were the case, he wouldn't mind taking these people out.He didn't want his life to be disturbed by those hounds."Old man, no need to look at me so terrifyingly." Benwaved his hand. "We aren't enemies.""Our Captain Luffy is someone who knows Shanks. You must know the Straw Hat, right?"Crocus froze for a moment. He did indeed know about the Straw Hat; the newspaper he was just reading was about the Straw Hat Pirates.He didn't expect it to be the kid Shanks had high hopes for?In that case, they were indeed not enemies.Thinking of this, Crocus withdrew his terrifying Auraand said, "Where is your Captain? Is he not here?""Uh..." Ben said somewhat awkwardly, "I'm not sure. When we came in just now, he wasn't on the ship."He then briefly explained how Luffy had punched Laboon because of the figurehead.This made Crocus laugh out loud. "That reckless streak..."It's quite similar to his own Captain~What a nostalgic feeling.Thinking of this, Crocus wanted to meet that kid even more."It seems that kid should be outside now." Crocuspointed to the door not far away and said, "In that case, you should head out first.""This is the inside of a whale's stomach. If you stay too long, the stomach acid will corrode your ship's hull."Let's have a good talk once you're outside.Just then, the sea surface vibrated violently, as if something terrifying was about to happen."What now?!" Usopp looked terrified. They were already inside someone's stomach, what more could happen!"Is it starting again?" Crocus looked up at the sky with a worried face. The Sedative has worn off."He's hitting his head against the Red Line again."Nami froze, then remembered that when she saw the giant whale from high up earlier, its head did indeed seem to be covered in scars."Then isn't he in a lot of pain...""Yes." Crocus sighed. "That's why I'm here, to give him Sedatives periodically.""The goal is to give him a moment of peace."However, using too much medicine will eventually lead to resistance. Perhaps before long, his Sedatives will lose their effect.Thinking of this, a trace of worry appeared in Crocus's eyes."In other words, this uncle is saving this whale?" Nami looked at Crocus with a strange expression. To think someone would actually do such a thing to save an animal."Hey, do you need our help?""No need." Crocus calmly waved his hand, then dove headfirst into the sea of stomach acid. This small matter didn't require help from others.Straw Hat Pirates:???"That's stomach acid down there, right?" Usopp's eyes widened. "Isn't he afraid of being dissolved?!""He is a crew member of the Pirate King," Ben said calmly. "Such a small problem won't trouble him.""Hmm?""What's that sound?" Ben looked up at the door in the distance. "I think I hear Luffy's voice...""How is that possible? Luffy is outside..." Before Usopp could finish, Luffy, along with two other people, burst through the large door on the wall."It really is you!" Usopp was dumbfounded."Yo, so everyone is okay!" Luffy sighed in relief when he saw that everyone on the ship was fine.Thankfully, his partners were all alright....