WTR-LABAge of Exploration: Scientists on the Straw Hat ShipCh. 54 / 10685.06%WebWeb+AI#54Section 54"Let's go out to sea and be pirates together!"Luffy's shout echoed through the entire valley, and the people inside the house heard it clearly.At this moment, the trauma in Chopper's heart was completely smoothed over by Luffy. There really were humans willing to have him as a partner, a friend!"Honestly, kidnapping my Chopper and being so loud about it," Dr. Kureha said with some dissatisfaction inside the house. "That brat."Nami smiled awkwardly upon hearing this. What else could she say?"There are coats in the wardrobe. I'm going to take care of some things now and won't be back for a while," Dr. Kureha said indifferently, glancing at Nami. "You absolutely must not sneak away, understand?"Nami looked at her departing back and smiled. She really was someone who said one thing but meant another.After going outside, Nami saw Ben shout, "Chopper, this is the birthday present I prepared for you!""Boom!"With a loud explosion, the clouds in the sky were blown apart, revealing brilliant sunlight!The ground in the distance also began to undergo dramatic changes. A large number of trees sprouted from the earth, and in a short time, a massive amount of cherry blossoms actually bloomed!Looking at the sea of flowers in the distance, Chopper's tears could no longer be held back."Doctor, this country's illness...""It really has been cured!"Looking at the wailing Chopper, everyone showed a gentle smile.This child has suffered.Inside the castle, Dr. Kureha wiped a tear from the corner of her eye and murmured into the air, "Go on."Thank you, Ben.Chapter 66: The Happiness of the Straw Hat Pirates!"Is it really okay for us to just leave like this?" Usoppglanced at Ben and scratched his head. "It's rare to see such a beautiful sight..."He even thought about bringing Kaya here to see it one day."The business here is finished, there's no need to stay," Ben smiled, then glanced at Nami. "With Chopper coming along, Nami's condition can also stabilize.""We're still not sure about the situation in Alabasta, so let's save as much time as we can."Who knows if that Crocodile will suddenly attack or change his mind?Vivi fell silent for a moment upon hearing this, then said gratefully, "Thank you."Ben waved his hand. At a time like this, what was the point of saying thank you?"Alright, get ready," Ben looked towards the castle and smiled. "Once Chopper comes out, we'll escape!""Escape?""A certain someone who doesn't say what she means won't let Chopper leave that easily~"On the other side, Chopper cautiously came to the door of Dolton's ward. Looking at Dr. Kureha inside, he said tentatively, "Dr. Kureha...""I have something to tell you."Seeing Chopper drenched in sweat, Dr. Kureha put down the wine bottle in her hand and asked knowingly, "What's wrong?""Listen to me, Dr. Kureha.""I'm going to be a pirate with them!""I'm going out to sea with them as their Ship Doctor!"Looking at the expectant Chopper, Dr. Kurehafrowned slightly. "What did you say?""Don't talk nonsense!""Listen, you are my only assistant!""Who do you think taught you your medical arts?" Dr. Kureha's face darkened as she spoke. "Are you not grateful to me at all?!"Seeing Dr. Kureha's angry expression, Chopperbecame a bit more cautious."It's not like that. I'm very grateful to Dr. Kureha, and I love this place where I met the Doctor and Dr. Kureha the most."Seeing Chopper like this, Dr. Kureha got even angrier. "Hmph, then you just stay here for me!""Being a pirate is no easy task. You could lose your life if you're not careful.""Do you really think you can face it calmly?!"That's right, Dr. Kureha was testing Chopper at this moment. She wanted to see if this little guy's determination was enough!If he didn't have the determination to risk his life on the sea, she wouldn't let him leave!"I can!""Don't talk nonsense!" Dr. Kureha smashed the wine bottle in her hand and looked at Chopper angrily. "I've never heard of a Reindeer going out to sea!""That's right, I'm a Reindeer, but I'm also a man!" Chopper plucked up his courage to meet her gaze, his eyes serious and not flinching at all.Seeing Chopper like this, Dr. Kureha fell silent for a moment.She was very gratified in her heart that this little guy had such determination, but...She was still a bit reluctant to let him go.Forget it, she would play the villain one last time.Thinking of this, Dr. Kureha slowly took down several axes from the wall and said, "You certainly have a big mouth. Anyway, I won't agree to it.""If you want to leave, then defeat me first!" As she spoke, Dr. Kureha threw an axe, which embedded itself directly into the wall next to Chopper.It nearly scared Chopper to death. Was Dr. Kurehaplaying for real?!"A crybaby like you dares to call himself a man?""Don't make me laugh!""Please understand!" Chopper shouted. Seeing Dr. Kureha going for other weapons, he turned and ran."No matter what you say, I'm definitely leaving with them this time!""Stop right there! I won't allow you to leave!" Dr. Kureha chased frantically behind him, but every weapon she threw 'just missed' Chopper, as if she were intentionally driving him away.Chopper didn't have time to think. He quickly ran to where the Sled was kept and took off with it.After reaching the outside, Chopper shouted to Benand the others, "Hey!""Get on the Sled quickly, we're leaving!""Huh?" The Straw Hat Pirates were a bit dumbfounded. Why was Dr. Kureha chasing Chopper with a cleaver?Without time to think, everyone climbed onto the Sled.Chopper quickly exerted himself, charging off the top of the mountain peak and racing into the distance along the ropes.Racing towards his own adventure!After chasing them to the edge of the cliff, Dr. Kureha put down her weapons and watched the departing youngsters with a smile."Go, Chopper..."I hope you can live the life you want.And that Ben kid, if you dare to bully Chopper, this old woman won't let you off easily!"Yeah, don't worry." For some reason, as Ben looked at the small speck standing in the distance, he understood Dr. Kureha's feelings."What's wrong?"Ben didn't answer. Instead, he looked at Chopperand said, "Chopper, live happily according to your own wishes.""This...""It's what Dr. Kureha wants."Chopper's pupils contracted upon hearing this. His lips began to tremble, and a mist covered his eyes.So that's it. Was Dr. Kureha testing my determination?Thinking of this, Chopper stopped running and shouted with all his might, "Dr. Kureha, I won't let you down!"Then, without looking back, he ran into the distance. He didn't want Dr. Kureha to see his tears."That little guy." Dr. Kureha, walking to the entrance of the castle, smiled even more happily.I'm happy today; I have to have a few more drinks.Well~I'll just bring out those favorite bottles of vintage wine~I've been craving them anyway."I didn't expect you'd actually be willing to let him go." Dolton looked at Dr. Kureha with some surprise.He had originally thought she didn't want Chopperto leave."What reason is there to stop a man from heading out to sea?""That's true.""Hahahaha."...After the Straw Hat Pirates returned to their ship, they sailed the going merry away from Drum Island.Watching the island gradually recede, Choppermurmured to himself, "I'm leaving, Doctor, Dr. Kureha.""It's finally beginning—my adventure."Glancing at the island that had turned into spring, Chopper looked at Ben beside him.To be honest, he was grateful to Ben from the bottom of his heart."Ben, thank you.""Don't mention it, we're partners!" Ben gave a thumbs-up and flashed his white teeth. "Saying things like that is too formal~""Hahahaha."
Chapter 55"Companions... huh." Chopper chewed on those words carefully, then smiled and nodded, "Yeah!""Companions!""For something this wonderful, we have to throw a banquet!" Luffy stuck two chopsticks up his nose, making a goofy face. "Hey, Chopper~""Right, a banquet! A banquet!""To celebrate a new companion joining us, we're having a banquet!"Looking at his seemingly idiotic companions, Chopper hesitated for a moment. Were these the same people from before?Seeing Chopper's expression, Ben smiled and patted his shoulder. "Scared?""That's just how they are. You'll have to learn to get used to it~""Besides, don't you think this kind of atmosphere is much happier?"He actually quite liked this feeling, as if a pack of huskies were performing in front of them.Yeah, it felt exactly like that."Yeah..." Chopper nodded weakly. "It is indeed quite interesting."Then, Chopper noticed the Kuai Pao Ya that Vivi was holding nearby. Although its eyes were rolling back, its mouth was constantly grumbling."Hey, what's wrong with you?!" Vivi looked at the Kuai Pao Ya in her hands with an anxious face. "Why did you get frozen into an ice block just now?"Chopper walked over, and hearing the words from the Kuai Pao Ya's mouth, he subconsciously helped translate."He says there's a bastard named Zoro who was swimming in the river, but then he disappeared while swimming. He thought something happened to him, so he jumped in after him, and ended up like this."Ben looked at Zoro with a face full of astonishment. "Zoro, you...""Can you even get lost while underwater?"The air went silent for a moment, and then everyone burst out laughing."Hahahaha! Zoro, are you an idiot?!""Getting lost even in the water, you're really something.""Hey, Chopper, do you have any medicine to treat a lack of sense of direction? Prescribe some for this Marimo." Sanji walked over to Zoro, grabbed his face, and pulled it outward. "Otherwise, who knows where he'll end up next time.""Huh?!" Zoro instantly got angry and swung his fist, striking Sanji on the head.Well, the two of them started fighting again."I don't have that kind of medicine, but I could try to research it..." Chopper hesitated here and asked, "Why are they fighting?"As a little newbie on the ship for the first time, Chopper really didn't understand what these two were doing."Oh, that's just how they show they're close." Namiwaved it off, then walked over to the two of them and gave them two firm punches. "Hey! You're scaring Chopper! Behave yourselves!""De... Demon.""Hmph, so I'm a demon, so what!" Nami blew on her fist and calmly walked back to Chopper's side with a smile. "Don't worry, they're always like this. You'll get used to it."A drop of sweat rolled down Chopper's face. So Nami was actually this scary...For a moment, he even worried if he might get beaten up too."Chopper, can you actually understand what it's saying?" Vivi pointed at the Kuai Pao Ya in her hands, her face full of surprise."Yeah." Chopper nodded. "Because I was originally an animal, I can talk to animals.""Talking to animals..."Ben rubbed his chin and said, "That's actually quite similar to Apis's fruit ability.""Apis?""Ah, she's a little girl we met before. She ate the Whisper-Whisper Fruit, so she can also hear the voices of animals' hearts."Speaking of which, Ben glanced at Luffy, who was still acting silly.He has that kind of ability too."That's really amazing, not only can you talk to animals, but you also have superb medical skills." Nami looked at Chopper with a face full of admiration. This was really impressive, okay?"Idiot!""Ev... even if you praise me like that, I won't be happy at all~"Looking at the bashful yet clearly very happy Chopper, the others were somewhat speechless.You look very happy though.Well~In any case, the ship's doctor is finally in place. It's time to head for Alabasta!But for now~"Banquet time!""To celebrate our new companion!""Cheers!""Oh!"The entire Straw Hat Pirates were immersed in a festive atmosphere, filled with joy!...New book, please subscribe~Thank you everyone~.Chapter 67: About Nami knowing Haki~"The ocean is so vast~" Chopper, sitting next to Luffy, looked into the distance with an excited face. As a reindeer who grew up on an island, going out to sea for the first time was a very exciting thing!"Of course it is! Pirates have to sail freely on this vast ocean!"In Luffy's eyes, the most free person is the Pirate King!"Is that so? Pirates really are amazing!" Chopper's eyes were full of little stars. Is this the life of a pirate? It's just too wonderful!This is the life he yearned for!Just then, a huge bird suddenly flew across the sky, catching the attention of the two."What's that?""A seagull!"Listening to Luffy's serious introduction, Choppernodded. "So that's a seagull."It was the first time Chopper had seen such a creature.It looked a bit scary.The corner of Nami's mouth twitched upon hearing that. "How could there be a seagull that big!"A seagull several meters long?Are you kidding me!That's clearly just a strange bird!Perhaps having heard Luffy's call, the giant bird turned around and flew back, seemingly intending to snatch one of them up to eat!After all, finding food on the ocean is a rare occurrence.It had been very smooth when it caught that four-legged beast before, and it believed it wouldn't fail this time either!"See, it really is a seagull." Looking at the giant bird rushing over, Luffy said with a smug face.There was no way he could be wrong!"Is now the time to argue about that!" Nami roared with a shark-like mouth. "Wasn't it called over by you anyway!"It's dangerous, okay!Then, under Nami's shocked gaze, Luffy was snatched away by the other party.Seeing Luffy being held in the giant bird's beak, Chopper panicked immediately and ran toward the stern. "Oh no! Luffy's been eaten!"Seeing the four of them still playing cards, Chopperwas dumbfounded."Now is not the time to play cards! Go save Luffy!""Pair of fours." Ben threw down two cards and said calmly, "Did he call for help?""No...""Pass." Zoro threw down two eights and said, "Then don't worry about him."This guy knows what he's doing, no need to care.He didn't call for help, so what's the rush.Sure enough, Luffy knocked the giant bird unconscious himself in the air and landed on the stern of the ship, almost flipping the boat over."Hey, what the hell are you doing!" Ben roared. "I had the Big and Small Jokers in this hand!"He was definitely going to be the first one to go out in this round!"Sorry, sorry." Luffy scratched his head and said, "Sanji, I brought the meat back.""Got it.""Can something this ugly really be eaten..." Usopplooked suspicious."When handling a bird, first you have to pluck the feathers and remove the internal organs, then coat it in wheat flour and fry until golden..." Sanji said, puffing on a cigarette as he described the cooking method, making Luffy's mouth water."Hey, we're almost at Alabasta, stop playing around." Nami shouted from the front. "Everyone, get serious!"Honestly, what time do they think it is, still playing over there.After everyone gathered in the center of the ship, Vivi first gave Chopper a simple introduction to the current situation, and then began to recount the information about the enemy this time."First is Mr. 0, which is Crocodile, one of the Shichibukai. His strength is terrifying." Vivi's face looked a bit pale. "If we want to defeat him...""No problem, leave it to me." Luffy gave a thumbs up and smiled. "Shichibukai or whatever, I'll definitely defeat him!"
is the man who is going to become the Pirate King, so how could he possibly lose to a mere Shichibukai?Vivi was deeply moved upon hearing this; even knowing the opponent was a Shichibukai..."I have information on this man," Ben interjected from the side. "He's a Logia suna suna no mi user, and his body can freely transform into sand.""Without special methods or Haki, physical attacks are useless against him.""Haki?" Zoro glanced at Ben upon hearing the term. "What is that?""It's a means of dealing with Devil Fruit Users," Benglanced at Nami. "An ability that allows one to seize the physical form of an Ability User. It's considered the most effective way."The others looked at Nami after hearing this. It seemed that every time Nami beat up Luffy, Luffy's Gum-Gum Fruit ability had no effect.Could it be that Nami is actually a powerhouse?!"Nami, you actually know Haki?!.each!" Usopplooked at Nami with a face full of shock. That's a Sharp Weapon for dealing with Ability Users!"What?" Nami looked confused. Since when did she know that 'Haki' thing?"You're overthinking it. Nami is special," Ben said after a moment's hesitation. "Special to the point where her Haki only works on our own people."Though he wasn't quite sure how that worked himself.The corners of the others' mouths twitched. What a bizarre ability.Nami suddenly felt a bit embarrassed and then glared at Ben. It's fine if you know it yourself, but why say it out loud?Humph, just wait until you have to kneel on durians later.Ben's mouth twitched, and he gave a light cough to change the subject. "But don't worry. Although we don't know Haki, I have a way to catch Crocodile's flowing body.""I'll give the item to you before we reach Alabasta," Ben said, looking at Luffy. "When the time comes, you'll be able to fight him fairly."As long as he could touch the opponent's body, Benbelieved it wouldn't be difficult for Luffy to take down Crocodile.After finishing his piece, Ben signaled for Vivi to continue while he leaned back in a nearby chair."Mm." Vivi nodded and then said, "Next are the officers, Mr. 1 through Mr. 5 and their partners. All ten of these people are Devil Fruit Users. However, we no longer need to worry about Mr. 3, Mr. 5, and their partners, as they've already been taken care of.""The ones we need to focus on now are the other five.""Five?" Usopp asked, somewhat confused. "Shouldn't there be six?""Mr. 2 is a special case; he doesn't have a partner and carries out all his missions alone." Thinking of that strange man, Vivi's mouth twitched—well, he was probably a man.Vivi then shared all the intelligence she had."In other words, the enemy still has five officers?" Sanji said, stroking his chin. "Then should we find an opportunity to take out their officers first?"At the very least, they couldn't let them interfere with the battle between Luffy and Crocodile."If possible, that would be best." Vivi nodded. She certainly didn't want to have to deal with those officers while facing Crocodile."Alright, then it's decided."After finishing their serious discussion, the group returned to their previous state and went off to play.Anyway, there's no need to fight right now, is there?"Hey, is it really going to be okay?" Nami walked up to Ben's side and said with some concern, "The enemy this time...""Don't worry, he's just a mere Shichibukai," Benwaved his hand. "Our Captain is the man who's going to become the Pirate King.""Besides, isn't there still me?"However, unless it was absolutely necessary, he wouldn't step in to help the others.Because this was their own battle. To grow, they had to experience these fights!Especially Zoro; without this battle, he would have no way to Breakthrough to the Realm of Cutting Steel and become a Master Swordsman!Looking at Ben's demeanor, Nami felt a greater sense of security.True, as long as Ben was there, there wouldn't be any problems.Nami suddenly froze for a moment and then smiled.She didn't know when their goal had shifted from simply taking Vivi home to helping her defeat Crocodile.When did it start?Perhaps it was at that moment of decision.Having been recognized as a friend, she was worth the Straw Hat Pirates risking their lives to help her, because...That's just how the Straw Hat Pirates are!"We can win, right?""Naturally." Ben's tone was full of confidence. Crocodile was nothing more than someone who had lost his ambition!If it were the Crocodile of ten years ago, the current Straw Hat Pirates would indeed be no match for him; after all, back then he was someone who dared to challenge Whitebeard.But now~He can't even use Haki; he's truly weak~Thinking of this, Ben began to ponder.What exactly is Haki?Now he felt that Haki was not just an application of blood and Qi, but more an expression of one's spirit and willpower.Just like Crocodile and Gekko Moriah—once they lost their drive and spirit, they couldn't even use Armament Haki anymore.Not to mention Observation Haki; they simply couldn't use it at all.Thinking of this, Ben glanced at Nami, musing that her Aura must reach its Peak when she's hitting her own crew.Otherwise, there would be no way to produce an effect identical to Armament Haki."What is it?" Nami asked curiously, noticing Ben's gaze."Nothing." Ben shook his head, while internally deciding to find an opportunity to train Nami later, at least so she would have the ability to protect herself.The danger level of the New World is quite high, after all...."You're back a bit late, Nico Robin," Crocodile said, looking coldly at Nico Robin. "Have you been doing something behind my back?"He always felt that this woman couldn't be trusted.After all, she was someone who had been wanted for 80 million Berries since she was eight years old!To say such a person didn't have hidden agendas?He didn't believe it for a second.Crocodile knew very well that this woman was a double-edged sword."Ara~""It makes me sad when you say that," Nico Robinsaid, feigning hurt. "I am your partner, after all~""Stop lying," Crocodile snorted, then didn't press the matter further.Ultimately, they were just in a cooperative relationship; even if she had some small schemes, there wasn't much he could do.He couldn't exactly kill her now; he still had a use for this woman."The Marines have recently arrived in Alabasta, so don't make things too obvious. You understand what I mean.""They've already arrived?" Nico Robin was startled, then said in surprise, "Could they have discovered something?"After all, what Crocodile was doing now was seizing the country of Alabasta!The Marines might have indeed caught wind of something, though they likely lacked evidence, which is why they sent someone to investigate.Once the evidence was conclusive, his position as a Shichibukai would probably be over."No," Crocodile said calmly. "If they had really discovered anything, they would have sent people to arrest me already."At the very least, an Admiral would have come, not a mere Navy Captain.Does trash like that think they're worthy of catching me?They're probably just passing through Alabasta for some other reason.Humph, you'd better pray you don't discover my secret, otherwise, I'll have to kill all of you Marines.After all, only dead men can keep secrets best~Just then, Crocodile's transponder snail rang."¨‖ What is it?""There's a group of pirates causing trouble outside!" Before the person could finish, a scream was heard; most likely, they had already been killed by the other side.Crocodile's expression darkened. Pirates coming to cause trouble at a time like this?They really are seeking death.Fine, consider it an appetizer before the real business begins."Are you going to go?" Nico Robin asked curiously."I need to keep up appearances," Crocodile said, putting on his coat and walking out. "After all, I am the guardian deity of this country right now!"At least that's how it looks to others, and he needs this identity for now.Once he gets what he wants, it won't matter anymore.In this world, possessing strength is the only way!With Pluton in his hands, even the Marines won't dare to provoke him easily!When the time comes, he'll use Pluton to kill that bastard Whitebeard and settle the score for his severed arm!Watching Crocodile's departing back, Nico Robinnarrowed her eyes. "Then I wish you a safe journey."Crocodile waved his hand without answering; dealing with a bunch of petty pirates wouldn't even take the time to drink a cup of tea.Once Crocodile had completely left, Nico Robinlooked at the intelligence on the table and narrowed her eyes. "He really does trust me."At the same time, Nico Robin understood that once he truly got what he wanted, Crocodile wouldn't let her go.After all, in this world, one person knowing the location of Pluton is enough.
Having more than two people would only increase the risk of exposure.Therefore, Crocodile will definitely kill her!But Nico Robin didn't care; she had long since lived enough.As long as she could see what she wanted to see, whether she lived or died didn't matter.If she really died, it would be for the best; after running for so many years, she was tired."I just don't know if Straw Hat and his crew can make it here." Nico Robin thought of the Straw Hat Pirates, her lips curling upward. "I wonder if those interesting fellows can defeat Crocodile."If they can, things will get interesting.At least it would add a bit of fun before she dies.Well, maybe after seeing the poneglyph, she might not necessarily die (good stuff).At the same time, Nico Robin was also somewhat puzzled. "Why would the Marine come here?"Could they have really discovered some secret?This wouldn't be good news.If Crocodile's plan is exposed prematurely, she won't be able to see the poneglyph she wants to see.The most important thing is 852.104278..She didn't want Pluton to be discovered by the Marine!If the World Government obtained Pluton, it would be an absolute disaster for this world.Having experienced Hell, Nico Robin was very clear about the World Government's way of doing things.Thinking of this, Nico Robin walked outside.She would go out to take a look and scout for some intelligence.It could be considered as being mentally prepared...."Did Luffy not receive the message I left for him?" Ace, sitting on a rock, said with some confusion. "That shouldn't be right. Or is he still on his way?"Logically speaking, after so much time, that kid should have almost arrived in Alabasta.To ensure Luffy could receive the news, he had left messages on several islands."I'll wait two more days." Ace sighed, then leaned back against the rock, looking at the distant sky. "If he doesn't come after two days, I'll have to leave this place."Once he deals with Blackbeard, it won't be so easy to reunite with Luffy again.After all, he has to return to the New Worldimmediately.If the Second Division Commander of the Whitebeard Pirates stays in the Grand Line for too long, it will make some sensitive people overthink things."Whatever, why think so much." Ace pulled his hat over his face and lay comfortably on the rock. "I'll take a nap first."He would set off after waking up; anyway, this place didn't seem particularly far from the city.Maybe by the time he wakes up, Luffy will have arrived.He hadn't seen him for a long time and missed him quite a bit.Meanwhile, the Straw Hat Pirates were already approaching Alabasta!...Some readers said my updates are slow; they shouldn't be slow this time~Jie jie jie jie jie jie, please subscribe to the full version~.Chapter 68: Surface-Flowing Liquid Spheres"Hey, Luffy." Sanji looked at Luffy with a dark expression and said, "Can you explain why all the food in the refrigerator is gone?""To ensure we arrive safely in Alabasta, I carefully portioned out the food for nine people.""Hey, fess up. You're not someone who can hide your thoughts." Sanji reached out and pinched Luffy's mouth, asking with a grim face."I... how should I know?" Luffy looked away, pouting with an unnatural expression.It was a total case of burying one's head in the sand.Veins popped on Sanji's forehead. At least be serious when you lie, you bastard!Taking a deep breath, Sanji let go of Luffy and then shouted with a look of feigned surprise, "Eh, Luffy, what's that on the corner of your mouth?!""Oh no, I forgot to wipe my mouth after snacking!"Sanji fell silent for a moment upon hearing this, then kicked Luffy hard in the face, sending him flying as he roared, "It really was you!"Honestly, if he was hungry, why couldn't he just say so? Why did he have to steal food?Sanji was truly left speechless by Luffy's antics.He then turned to look at Usopp, Chopper, and Kuai Pao Ya, who were sitting nearby fishing, and asked, "Did you catch any fish?"The three of them shuddered and immediately began chewing faster, swallowing the stolen food before saying, "Ah~""Not yet, but we'll catch one soon, right guys!" Usopp said awkwardly."Yes, yes, yes, that's right!""Is that so~" Sanji walked over with a smile, then violently slammed the three's heads together. "Did you think I didn't know you guys were snacking too!"The force of it made Ben's head ache just from watching.Sanji really doesn't hold back."I say, next time we dock, let's get a bigger refrigerator," Ben suggested. "At least that way we can have more food."Then he took quite a bit of game out of his pocket. "Here, this is what I stored earlier.""No matter how much we have, it won't stop this bastard Luffy from stealing it," Sanji said irritably. "You know how much food he can eat in one sitting."It could be said that among them, this bastard Luffyate the most.But there was no helping it; who told him he's their comrade?"Since that pocket of yours can hold food, why don't we just keep it all with you from now on?""Don't," Ben waved his hand. "I have no way to guarantee the food won't rot here.""It's fine for short-term storage, but it'll go bad over a long period."He didn't want to eat spoiled food; that would cause an upset stomach.The reason this meat was edible was that it was just some game he had killed in passing on Drum Island."Alright." Sanji sighed and took the game Benhanded him. "But with these, reaching Alabastashouldn't be difficult.""You guys, hurry up and fish properly!" Sanji roared at the backs of the three. "If you don't catch any fish, I'll kick you overboard to feed the fish!""Yes!" The three immediately shuddered; they had no choice, they were in the wrong."Do your best, everyone~" Ben chuckled mischievously. "Otherwise, you'll have to go for a swim in the ocean~""Ben, you're so cold-blooded!""Why don't you make something that can catch fish?""I refuse." Ben snorted. "This is the punishment you deserve. Who told you to steal food?""Well~""Work hard so you don't get kicked into the sea~""Hahahaha."Laughing, Ben returned to the cabin and sat beside Nami, watching her draw the sea chart.After a long time, Nami wiped the sweat from her forehead and said, "Mhm, another location completed."This put her in a very good mood."What is that?" Vivi, sitting by the window, looked at the scene in the distance with some confusion. "Nami, take a look. Is something bad about to happen again?"Green steam was floating over the sea in the distance, looking a bit frightening.Nami glanced at it and then withdrew her gaze. "Don't worry about it; it's just a bit hot in that area.""There's a volcano under the seabed, which is why that phenomenon appears."This was perfectly normal, so there was no need to pay it much mind.Vivi nodded, then looked at Ben and asked, "Ben, what exactly was that thing you mentioned earlier that could touch Crocodile?""It's this." Ben pulled a bottle from his pocket, containing a few soft beads."These are called Surface-Flowing Liquid Spheres. Once consumed, they form a layer of flowing water on the surface of the body.""This way, you can strike Crocodile's body.""A layer of flowing water?" Nami was somewhat surprised. "Is this thing useful?"Isn't that Crocodile a Logia Ability User whose body is immune to physical attacks?Why did Nami feel this was a bit unreliable?"Of course it's useful." Ben said after putting two small spheres back into his pocket. "Crocodile's Devil Fruit is the suna suna no mi, and the suna suna no mi solidifies when it encounters water.""To put it simply, it's about what makes his body solidify again.""Forcing him to be unable to passively elementalize."Of course, if the opponent actively elementalizes, then there's nothing to be done.Someone with strong enough Observation Haki can elementalize their body in advance; at that point, you won't be able to hit the enemy even with Armament Haki.For example, Katakuri; his Observation Haki is truly terrifying.He can briefly foresee the future, you know.Nami and Vivi looked at each other; although they didn't understand, it sounded very impressive."As long as you know what you're doing."Ben's mouth twitched at those words. Fine, explaining this to them was a mistake.
Chapter 58From now on, I only need to tell them what it is; there's no need to explain.Just then, it started getting noisy outside."What is it now?" Nami looked outside with a helpless expression. "These guys, can't they just be quiet for one day?""If they could be quiet, they wouldn't be them." Bensmiled. "Don't mind them, let's keep talking.""By the way, Vivi, can you tell me a bit more about your country?" Ben said, looking at Vivi. "For example, the geography and the distribution of cities.""Okay." Vivi nodded, not thinking much of it.She then began to introduce the situation of her country.Meanwhile, the group outside was looking at Mr. 2 in shock."Why did you appear on the back of a Kuai Pao Ya?""Uh..." Mr. 2 had a strange expression. "I don't know either."He remembered sitting in his seat talking to his subordinates just now, so how did he suddenly end up hugging that guy?Oh, right, it was because of that strange steam!"Anyway, thank you all so much for your great kindness."If it weren't for them, he would have drowned..."Can't you swim?""Yes," Mr. 2 nodded. "Because I ate a Devil Fruit, I am despised by the sea, so I'm a dry land lubber.""Eh!" Usopp leaned in and asked, "What fruit is it?"The Grand Line really is amazing; it hasn't been long, and they've already encountered so many Ability Users."Hmm..." Mr. 2 hesitated for a moment, then nodded. "Well, since there's nothing else to do anyway, I'll show you~""Think of it as an entertainment program~"He then placed his hand on Luffy's face and then wiped his own face. "Ta-da!""This is my ability, the power of the Clone-Clone Fruit!"He then touched his face with his left hand, and it immediately returned to its original appearance."How amazing!" Chopper looked at Mr. 2 in surprise. Is there really such a miraculous power on the sea?"I'm not done yet~" Mr. 2 chuckled. After touching several of their faces, he continued to change his own face.Finally, he turned into a beautiful woman. "I'm telling you, I don't just change my face, even my body changes!"He then pulled open his clothes to show them, leaving everyone stunned."It's true..." Chopper was shocked; even the body structure had changed.Usopp rubbed his chin, looked at the cabin, and made a regretful expression. "Sanji just missed out on a fortune.""Naturally." Mr. 2, back to his original self, said proudly, "As long as my right hand has touched someone, I can turn into them!""How about it? Pretty cool, right? Hahahahaha."This was one of his main reliances for becoming Mr. 2~Just then, the shadow of a ship appeared in the distance, catching Mr. 2's attention. "Ah, my ship is here to pick me up!""Sorry, it's time to say goodbye.""Don't go!" Usopp said with a face full of reluctance. "Stay a little longer!"It was the first time he had seen such an interesting ability!Most importantly, even the body could..."Don't be sad; reunions and partings are inevitable on a journey.""But please don't forget this one thing: our friendship!""Even if our time together was short."At this moment, Mr. 2 already considered Luffy and the others as friends!Looking at the pirate ship sailing away, Luffy leaned over the side and shouted, "We definitely have to meet again!""What's all the noise!" Nami pushed open the cabin door and walked out looking annoyed. "Can't you be quiet for a moment!""Hey, Nami, there was a strange person just now!" Luffy said excitedly. "He can mimic anyone's appearance, and even his body can change!"Upon hearing this, Sanji, who was coming out with drinks, immediately perked up. "Really?""Can he even turn into a woman?"After receiving an affirmative answer, Sanji knelt directly on the ground. "What on earth did I miss..."Ben looked at Sanji with disgust. Why do you care so much about an okama?Hearing Usopp's description of the person and his appearance, Vivi's pupils shrank. "Can you describe what he looked like to me again?"Although Usopp didn't know why Vivi had such a big reaction, he described him once more.Vivi was dumbfounded. "He... he might be Mr. 2.""Mr. 2?!" Everyone was a bit stunned. "Then isn't he an enemy?!"Ben frowned slightly. "Did he touch your faces just now?"As soon as these words were spoken, Zoro and the others' expressions became even worse.Ben sighed, then looked at Vivi and said, "Vivi, I think I know why there's an uprising in your country.""It's very likely that this person turned into your father's likeness and did many bad things."At the same time, Ben was also a bit confused. When did Mr. 2 touch Vivi's father?Did he not even know himself?Or did Mr. 2 turn into a woman and... with Vivi's father...Well, in that situation, a man really wouldn't think too much.But why does it feel a bit disgusting?"To think we let such a troublesome enemy escape..." Usopp said with regret. "That means if they infiltrate our ranks in Alabasta..."They might be completely wiped out!After all, their enemy was at the level of the Shichibukai. If there's a mole in the middle of the team, who could stand that?Ben rubbed Chopper's head to signal him not to panic, then looked up at his companions and said, "It's okay, it doesn't matter if he touched your faces.""I'll make an authentication bracelet in a bit." Benpushed up his glasses and said calmly, "Then, whoever has the same bracelet is one of our own.""Uh..." Zoro hesitated and said, "Though it's not good to say this, what if one of us is defeated..."Wouldn't it be over if the bracelet is stolen?"Don't worry, I've already considered that." The corners of Ben's mouth curled up. "The bracelets I make use DNA authentication; no one but the owner can take them off.""That's good..." Usopp breathed a sigh of relief. He was really afraid that guy would sneak in, since all four of their faces had been touched just now.Just then, the sea suddenly vibrated, as if it were about to flip the going merry over."What is that?!" Chopper looked at the giant Sea Cat behind the ship, completely terrified.Is the sea outside this dangerous?"Meat!" Luffy's eyes suddenly sparkled with the light of meat. "Meat delivered right to our door!"Although the prey Ben brought out wasn't a small amount, if they really ate it, it would be gone in a day.They had to store more meat!!"Quick, get it!" Zoro drew his three swords and roared, "This is our food for the next few days!"The Sea Cat was stunned; it had never seen humans like this.Don't they know how to spell the word 'fear'?It had only come out to scavenge for a bit of food; it hadn't even thought about eating people.But these people actually wanted to eat it?Seeing the Sea Cat about to escape, Ben pulled out the wild wolf armor. "Let me!"He heard that giant sea beasts tasted pretty good; he had to have a proper taste."No!" Vivi immediately ran in front of Ben to stop him.The others might not necessarily be able to catch this Sea Cat, but Ben was different; this guy's inventions were simply too powerful.He might just kill the Sea Cat!"What's wrong?" Ben gave up his plan to get into the wild wolf armor. "Why won't you let us eat it?""Yeah, yeah!""This is a huge amount of meat!"Listening to the dissatisfied voices of Luffy and the others, Vivi took a deep breath and said, "Because in Alabasta, the Sea Cat is a sacred animal.""This absolutely cannot be eaten!""So it's like a totem food—no, animal, right?" Bensaid with a look of regret after putting away the wild wolf armor. "Fine, then let's let it go."He'd strike when they encountered other sea beasts later; there would be plenty of opportunities anyway."The sea really does have all kinds of animals," Chopper said with emotion.Is this the sea?It was so great that he could go out to sea as a pirate; otherwise, if he had stayed on Drum Island, he would never have seen such a sight in his life.Usopp, who had been trembling on the ground, coughed lightly and stood up. "You're really too green to be scared by a mere sea beast.""Let me tell you the story of my heroic battle against Sea Kings in the Calm Belt!"Chopper was a bit stunned upon hearing this. "Sea Kings?""Really, Usopp!" Chopper's eyes were full of little stars. "You're way too amazing!"
Hahahaha, this is nothing at all~"Watching Usopp bragging to Chopper, Ben felt a bit helpless.But Ben had to admit, the lies Usopp told seemed to come true later on.For example, that giant Sea King, or excrement as huge as an island.And his eight thousand subordinates; as God Usopp, he really did have that many followers.Ben rubbed his chin and pondered, "Could it be that Usopp is actually the author's favorite son?"In a sense, Ben felt Usopp was treated even better than Luffy.Forget it, let's go finish developing those bracelets first; we should arrive at Alabasta by tomorrow.Come to think of it, this country is quite pitiful, having actually been targeted by an ambitious man like Crocodile.If it weren't for the Straw Hat Pirates, it would probably have been destroyed by now.I don't know if that's fortunate or unfortunate.Chapter 69: Unexpected Encounter - Fire Fist Ace!"Everyone, put these on first." Ben took out nine bracelets and a necklace."Is this the identity-verification bracelet you mentioned?" Nami looked at the bracelet curiously and found the character 'Mei' written on it."Yes," Ben said proudly. "With this, we don't have to worry about being impersonated.""Oh, right, there will be a slight stinging sensation after putting it on~"This is a necessary measure to extract DNA; it requires a bit of blood."Oh, right, and this mask." Ben took out a mask and said, "Vivi is very easy to expose, so wearing this will help keep her identity hidden.""I feel much more at ease with this~" Nami sighed in relief. She was genuinely afraid that Mr. 2 would sneak into their group and launch a surprise attack.Besides, it really wasn't appropriate for Vivi to show her face at this time.Just then, Nami noticed the island ahead. "Have we already arrived at Alabasta~?""Yes, this is Nanohana in Alabasta." Vivi looked at the city before her, her eyes flickering. "I'm finally back..."After going through so much hardship, she had finally returned to Alabasta!After the going merry docked, everyone jumped off the pirate ship."Food, food!" Luffy shouted and rushed out. Although the food Ben had taken out earlier wasn't a small amount, Luffy had eaten it all in one meal.Strictly speaking, they had been hungry for a day now."Bastard, wait for me!" Ben shouted from behind, then immediately followed him out.Halfway there, Ben stopped and shouted to Vivi, "If you go out on the street later, remember to wear the mask I prepared for you."Although it doesn't have any particularly powerful effects, it can at least help conceal her identity.As long as she wears it, even if Vivi's father came, he wouldn't be able to recognize that this is his daughter!"Hey, Ben, hurry up!""Oh, coming." Hearing Luffy's call, Ben waved from the ship and then chased after him."Honestly, you actually need me to urge you when it comes to eating." Luffy said with some dissatisfaction, then extended his arm to grab Ben, slamming him heavily against a nearby rock, causing him to see stars.However, Luffy didn't notice Ben's state at all and dragged him along, walking forward on his own.I don't know how much time passed, but Ben's consciousness cleared up quite a bit, and he climbed up from the ground."Hey, Luffy." Ben grabbed Luffy by the neck and roared, "Can't you just wait for me to walk over myself!""And next time you grab me, can you be a bit more careful!"If he hadn't become stronger, that blow just now could have killed him!A normal person would definitely have had their head cracked open!"Ah..." Luffy turned his head away and said, "Sorry, sorry, I'll be careful next time."Yeah, he'll do it again next time."Hmph." Ben snorted, let go of Luffy, and shoved him aside.Counting on this bastard to change?He might as well count on Nami becoming uninterested in money."So, where is this?" Ben looked around and discovered that the two of them were currently in the middle of a desert.After thinking for a moment, he looked at Luffy with a shocked expression. "Are you actually Zoro in disguise?"As he spoke, he stepped forward and pinched Luffy's mouth, pulling at it, and discovered that it could indeed be stretched."It really is Luffy. How did you become a directionally challenged person too?"This left Ben very confused."What are you doing?" Luffy looked at Ben with dissatisfaction."You still have the nerve to ask?" Ben pointed around them irritably. "Weren't you taking me to find a restaurant?""What's the meaning of running into the desert!""Uh..." Luffy hesitated and said, "I was running towards the restaurant, who knew..."Just then, Luffy noticed a small house under a rock in the distance, the kind with a chimney, and immediately said with surprise, "Ben, look, it's a restaurant!""I told you, there's a restaurant here." He then ran forward without looking back."A restaurant?" Ben glanced at the suspicious little house in the distance and narrowed his eyes. "It doesn't really look like one."Forget it, since Luffy has already run over there, let's go and see.Upon arriving, he found Luffy crouching in front of several bags, saying with a bitter expression, "This stuff tastes terrible, could it be poison!""If it were poison, you'd already be lying down!" Bensaid irritably, then tapped his glasses. "Analyze what this is for me.""Data analysis in progress."A moment later, the answer appeared in Ben's glasses."This item is called Dance Powder, a type of medicinal powder created by a certain arid country to solve the problem of not having rain.""As long as it is thrown into a fire and burned, it can form dark clouds in the sky and bring rain.""However, neighboring countries downwind will fall into drought."Ben fell into deep thought while looking at this analysis. Isn't this just a tool for artificial rain?It's just that this thing is somewhat inhumane; it requires sacrificing the future of the neighboring country downwind to bring rain."Let's put this stuff away." Ben looked up at Luffy. "Maybe Alabasta is because of...""Hey, what are you doing?!""Burning them." Luffy, holding the Dance Powder, stopped his movements. "This stuff looks like poison at first glance."Can't leave it around to harm people.Veins popped out on Ben's forehead. "Didn't you hear what I said, you bastard!"After rushing over and punching the bastard to the ground, Ben let out a long sigh of relief and put all the Dance Powder into his pocket."Honestly, don't mess around when you don't understand something. What if it causes some bad consequences?" Ben said irritably. "You need to pay attention!""Why did you hit me..." Luffy said while sitting on the ground, muttering. "Shouldn't poison be destroyed?""Shut up!""Oh...""Very suspicious." After lecturing Luffy, Ben cast his gaze on the small house in front of him. "To think there's a small house in a place like this, and even something like Dance Powder, which is strictly prohibited by the World Government."Could this be one of Crocodile's people?Thinking of this, Ben's expression turned cold. It looks like he has to take this guy out.Can't let the enemy discover their movements.Just as Ben was about to make a move, the person inside suddenly rushed out. "I'll kill you!""How dare you destroy my ambition!"Ben gently moved his feet to dodge the opponent's large machete, then fiercely kicked the opponent in the face."Bam!""Boom!"It smashed the house down directly!"Why... why...""Why?" Listening to the opponent's words, Benwalked in front of him and said coldly, "Do you think this thing is something good?""What are you trying to do by hoarding this?""Rebelling?""Are you from the Royal Army?!""No." Ben waved his hand. "Just friends with a certain naive princess."Since he saw it, he took the Dance Powder."I don't know who researched this thing, but they're such an idiot." Ben snorted. "There are clearly better solutions."Insisting on sacrificing other places to achieve success here—isn't this just inciting war!Deserved to be beaten."What do you know?!" Although this person was covered in blood, he still stood up and roared. "If it weren't for this thing, this country would be completely finished!""Is this your reason for using this thing?" Ben said irritably. "Do you know that this is the reason for inciting war?""This...""Speak up. I don't think you're the kind of good person who would abandon everything for the country." Ben said with the look of someone who had already seen through him. "What are you preparing these things for?"
Chapter 60"Uh..." The man scratched his face and said with an embarrassed expression, "Don't you think that if you used this thing to get water at a time like this, you could make a fortune?"When the whole country has no water, he has water.Wouldn't that mean he could obtain a massive amount of wealth?"Profiteering from a national disaster?" Ben looked at the man with disgust. "I can tell you clearly: if you really do that, what you'll get isn't wealth, but death.""When you have resources that others don't, but you lack the ability to protect yourself...""...then it becomes inevitable that others will attack you.""Make a fortune?""You need the strength to back it up!"Without the strength to protect your wealth, you're just doing the hard work for someone else to reap the rewards!There were so many examples...He sighed in his heart; it seemed this was just a naive little nobody who wanted to get rich.Since he wasn't one of Crocodile's men, he would let him off the hook."Hey, Luffy, let's go." Ben glanced into the distance and said, "If we don't find a restaurant soon, we're going to starve to death.""You're right!" Luffy perked up immediately at the mention of a restaurant. "Let's go, let's go, let's go!"Watching Luffy dash off in a cloud of dust, Benshouted exasperatedly, "Wait a second, I'm leading the way this time!"If I let you lead again, I'll starve to death."Um, excuse me...""Please keep this matter a secret. I've realized my mistake."Ben stopped in his tracks upon hearing this, glanced at the man, and said indifferently, "I have no interest in reporting you. I've said my piece, so take care of yourself."Then, without looking back, he chased after him. "Hey, Luffy, you bastard, wait for me!""Take care of myself, huh..." Watching the two of them walk away, the man sighed. "Forget it, I'm going home."The one with the glasses was right; he had been too naive before.Without the strength to guard your wealth, even if you get it, you're just saving money for someone else.Going home, going home....At this moment, Vivi's heart was deeply conflicted. She looked up at Nami and the others, bit her lip, and said, "What we need to do next is cross the desert. This will be even harder than you imagine.""To be honest, I don't know what will happen next. It's a scorching land where one wrong step could cost you your life.""I'm still hesitating whether I should take you to a place like that..."Biting her teeth, Vivi clenched her fists. "I want to restore peace to this country, so I want to ask you one more time."---Requesting Flowers---"Everyone!""Please, lend me your strength!""Please..."Looking at Vivi, Nami smiled. "You finally said it.""We've been waiting for you!"Ben had told her before that if Vivi didn't personally ask for help, they wouldn't be able to truly intervene.But it was different now. As the Princess of Alabasta, she was personally requesting their help!As her friends, they could now help Vivi legitimately!"Not knowing what will happen—isn't that just like being at sea?" Sanji smiled gently, happy that Vivihad found the courage to speak up."Yeah, it's no different from before!" Zoro's lips curled up, for once not bickering with Sanji."I'm looking forward to seeing what the desert is like~""Very well, everyone's full of energy! Let's head for Yuba!""Oh!""Everyone..." Vivi's eyes misted over; she was truly moved at this moment."I say..." Usopp said dryly, "Aren't we missing two people?"The air went silent instantly. They felt like something wasn't right!Nami covered her face. "Yeah, we're missing two."Where on earth did those two idiots go to eat?!"Anyway, let's go find them first." Nami sighed. "Focus the search on places like restaurants."Sanji and Vivi stayed hidden there, while the others quickly headed into the city to search.As they passed a crossroad, Zoro stopped. "That pattern on that person's back..."If he remembered correctly, it should be the symbol of the Whitebeard Pirates....0Why would someone from the Whitebeard Piratesbe here?"So, I wonder if you've seen this person." Ace placed the bounty poster in his hand on the table and said, "I've been looking for him for a long time.""I haven't seen him." The older woman shook her head. "But if you're looking for someone, I recommend you check out the restaurant up ahead.""Someone there might have seen him."After all, in a place like this, most travelers would pass through a restaurant."A restaurant, huh." After tucking the bounty poster away, Ace glanced at the restaurant in the distance. "Well~""I'm hungry anyway, so I'll go grab a bite."If that kid Luffy didn't show up soon, he would leave.He didn't have much time to wait around here.He needed to go take down Blackbeard!Watching Ace's departing back, Zoro's brow furrowed. "Why is he asking for news about Luffy?""What's wrong?" Usopp asked curiously. "Did you find Luffy?""No, it's just that someone is asking about Luffy.""Could it be a Bounty Hunter?!" Nami was startled. Luffy's current bounty was 50 million Berries!Ah, and the one from her family was 30 million Berries."No, as a former Bounty Hunter, I wouldn't mistake it; that's the symbol of the Whitebeard Pirates." Zoro said with a grim face, "I just don't know why he's looking for Luffy...""Whatever, let's move faster and try to find Luffybefore he does."Even if it's an enemy, we'll face them together!"Oh!"Just then, Zoro saw a woman in the distance and was instantly stunned. "Isn't that the..."...woman from Loguetown who looks exactly like his childhood friend?!"I think her name is Tashigi.Thinking of this, Zoro immediately pulled the others aside to hide. Now was not the time to be discovered by them...."Finally made it." Ben looked at the restaurant in the distance with a miserable expression. "Luffy, I really shouldn't have walked with you."It had caused him to lose his composure; he was supposed to be a cool and handsome guy!Damn it, is it impossible to maintain a cool persona while following this bastard Luffy?"Hahaha, don't worry about the details~" Luffylaughed very happily, then grabbed the buildings on both sides with his hands and shouted, "Ben, I'm going ahead, hurry up!""Gum-Gum Rocket!"His whole body flew out with a WHOOSH, and in the blink of an eye, he crashed into the restaurant.Inside the restaurant at that moment, Smoker was confronting Ace. Just as he was about to make a move, Luffy crashed heavily onto his back.Instantly, Smoker was sent flying, taking Ace with him as they smashed through the wall and flew into the distance.Ace was completely stunned. He had been quite happy to hear his younger brother's voice, but how could this kid be like this!Damn, this way of saying hello is truly special.Without time to think, he flew out along with Smoker.Ben walked in from outside and looked at the broken wall in surprise. "Luffy, did you do this?""Ah, don't worry about the details~" Luffy pounded the table and shouted, "Quick, quick, bring out the food, I want to eat!""Fair enough." Ben walked over nonchalantly. "Old man, quick, I want to eat too!"In the whole wide world, eating is the most important thing.Chapter 70: This sea is very terrifying!Unlike Luffy, Ben was full after eating a portion of the food."Hey, you two had better run away quickly." The old man said earnestly, "Otherwise, when they come back, you'll be dead.""Why?""Who do you think the person you just kicked away was?""Kicked away?" Luffy asked with a puzzled face. "Who?""It was you!" Ben irritably punched the back of Luffy's head. "Just how slow are you?""Sorry, old man. How much for this wall? We'll compensate you."
Chapter 61"Ah, it doesn't matter how much the wall costs, but I think you'd better leave quickly." The old man wiped the sweat from his forehead. "Otherwise..."Not only might these two kids die, but his shop could be destroyed too!He didn't want that, so that bit of money didn't matter."I did that?" Luffy looked at the large hole in the wall with a face full of confusion. Why didn't he remember?"Of course it was you!" the old man roared, his mouth opening like a shark's."Oh, things like that don't matter." Luffy waved his hand. "Anyway, Ben has money."Ben:???"Hey, you guy..." Before Ben could finish speaking, Ace walked in through the hole. "It really is you, Luffy!""I...""Found you, Straw Hat!" Smoker pinned Ace's head to the ground, walked past Ace with a fierce expression, and came before Luffy, saying viciously, "You really made me search for you, Straw Hat.""And Scientist Ben, I really owe you for your 'care' back then."Smoker recalled the experience of being trapped inside a glass sphere, and he felt terrible all over.If Tashigi hadn't happened to run into him, he might have been finished!After all, he couldn't maintain his elemental form indefinitely!"I suspected back then whether you would come to Alabasta, and sure enough, I've caught you!""Heh, so what if you've caught us?" Ben glanced at Smoker and said with a calm face, "Don't tell me you're planning on being locked up by me again?"That calm look immediately made Smoker explode with rage. "I won't fall for the same Move a second time!""Is that so?" Ben narrowed his eyes and said, "That's not necessarily true."As for Luffy?Well, Luffy was still eating; he hadn't even remembered who the person in front of him was yet."Who is he, Ben?"Smoker:???"You actually forgot about me?"Smoker completely lost it. I almost captured you guys back then, and you actually forgot?"He's that Smoker from Loguetown," Ben said somewhat helplessly. "The one covered in smoke.""Oh!" Luffy punched his palm and said, "So it's you!"He remembered now; there indeed was a person covered in smoke who tried to catch them, but unfortunately was defeated by Ben.Thinking of this, Luffy said with some disdain, "What are you, a defeated opponent, coming to find me for?""I..." Smoker's blood pressure spiked instantly. A defeated opponent?Fine, whatever, as long as he captured this guy, he could wash away his shame!Thinking of this, Smoker drew his Jitte, intending to make a Move."Hey, Luffy.""Ah." Luffy gave a 'hehe' laugh, stuffed all the food into his mouth at once, turned around, and ran. "Run, Ben!""Oh!"Watching the two of them dash out, Smoker froze on the spot.I haven't even made a Move yet, and you've already run away?"Stop right there!" Smoker subconsciously intended to turn into smoke and give chase, but seeing Benshove his hand into his pocket, he immediately hesitated.If he got trapped again, he might not be able to escape.After all, this wasn't Loguetown.It was this moment of hesitation that caused Smokerto lose the chance to catch up to the two of them.But he wouldn't give up so easily!By chance, Smoker saw Tashigi standing not far away. "Hey, Tashigi, have you seen the Straw Hat?""Straw Hat?" Tashigi shook her head. "No, did they come here?""Tch." Smoker said with some annoyance, "They escaped quite fast."No, he couldn't just let them go."Tashigi, issue an emergency summons to the Marines, search the entire city for the Straw HatPirates!" After Smoker finished speaking, he turned into smoke and flew off. He wouldn't give up so easily!"Yes!" Tashigi nodded upon hearing this and turned to run into the distance."Since Straw Hat is here, that means Roronoa is here too!" Tashigi bit her lip. "This time, I definitely won't let you get away!"She had to take back the wado ichimonji!On the other side, Ben was fleeing across the rooftops with Luffy. As Ben ran, he searched for their companions. "I wonder where they've run off to.""Stop right there, Straw Hat, Scientist Ben!" Smokersurged up from the ground, rushing toward the two at extreme speed."Heh, you're really not afraid, huh?" Ben chuckled and put his hand into his pocket again, scaring Smoker into stopping his movements instantly. After canceling his elemental form, he looked at Ben with a wary expression."Fooled you~""Hahahaha.""Run, Luffy!" He didn't have any smoke suction beads in his pocket right now."Oh!""Damn it!!" Smoker's face turned red with anger, but he really didn't dare to approach Ben in elemental form. This feeling was simply too frustrating.Watching the two jump off the rooftop, Smokercame behind the Marines Tashigi had gathered and roared, "The Straw Hat crew is over there, chase them!"As long as he dealt with the Scientist, Straw Hatwouldn't be worth a damn in his eyes!Seeing the large number of Marines chasing from behind, Luffy was a bit dumbfounded. "How did so many Marines suddenly pop out!""Ben, run!""I am running!" Ben said with a headache, "I shouldn't have walked with you.""You really are a trouble magnet."He had realized that wherever Luffy was, there would definitely be a disturbance."Hahahaha, don't worry about such small things. Run, run! If we get caught, it's over!"The disturbance caused by the two quickly caught the attention of Zoro and the others in the distance. "Why are the Marines making such a big commotion?""Hah, it must be some idiot pirate provoking the Marines." Usopp waved his hand calmly. "It doesn't have much to do with us..."As he said this, Usopp suddenly had a bad premonition.Idiot pirate?Hearing Luffy's signature laughter from a distance, Nami and the others were dumbfounded. "The idiot pirate is you?!"Why cause a disturbance at a time like this, you bastard!"Ah, everyone!" Noticing his companions, Luffylaughed and rushed over. "Great, I finally found you!""Hey, you idiot, don't lead the Marines over here!" Zoro was completely stressed. "Ben, why are you fooling around with him too!"Don't you know what our situation is right now?!Meeting up with the companions, Ben said somewhat awkwardly, "You can't blame me for this. You know Luffy; he's the center of chaos wherever he goes.""Anyway, don't worry about that for now, just run!""Oh!"The others didn't have time to scold that bastard Luffy either; they turned and ran."We've found the Straw Hat crew!""Stop, don't run!""You can't escape! Our people are all over the city, just surrender quietly!""In your dreams~" Usopp looked back and made a face. "Come and catch us if you can~""Alright, stop talking nonsense and run!""Oh."If they were caught, the fact that Vivi was here would be exposed.Ben was very clear on this point.Most importantly, she was currently mixed up with this group of pirates. If the Marines caught her..."You won't escape!" Smoker chased from behind, his face grim. "Fire and stop them!""Yes!" A group of Marines raised their weapons and fired without a moment's hesitation!"Damn it." Hearing the gunshots, Luffy immediately went behind his companions and spread his arms to block all the bullets.But at the same time, his speed slowed down."Got you!" Seizing the opportunity, Smoker rushed in front of Luffy in the blink of an eye, raising his arm to pin him to the ground.At the critical moment, a ball of fire suddenly flew from a distance and struck Smoker, stopping his attack."Heat Haze!"Forced into elemental form, Smoker quickly pulled away from Luffy to prevent being trapped by Ben.Then he looked at Ace and said, "Why are you interfering?""Do you know this group of pirates?"Reasonably speaking, the Second Division Commander of the Whitebeard Pirates shouldn't be meddling in such matters."Sorry, I can't let you lay a hand on my brother~" Ace said with a smile, his body covered in flames."Brother?" Smoker frowned, looking at the surprised Luffy in the distance. "Straw Hat?"
62"Ace?!" Luffy looked at Ace with a face full of pleasant surprise. "It's you, isn't it!"He had wanted to find his brother for a long time, but he just didn't know where he was.He never expected to run into him here today."You haven't changed a bit, Luffy~" Ace said, looking at Luffy with a smile. "You still look just as silly, hahahaha.""Ace, you ate a Devil Fruit?!""Yeah, I ate the Mera Mera no Mi." Ace nodded, glancing at the Marines who were gradually surrounding them. "Now isn't the time to talk. Anyway, you guys leave first; I'll catch up in a bit.""Oh, got it!" Luffy nodded obediently and immediately turned to run with his companions."That's your brother?" Zoro looked at Luffy in shock.Someone from the Whitebeard Pirates was actually Luffy's brother?"Yeah, his name is Ace.""Is it really okay to leave him alone?" Usopp looked back at Ace with some concern. To block a whole group of Marines by himself..."Don't underestimate him. He's the Second Division Commander of the Whitebeard Pirates, Fire Fist Ace!" Ben said, pushing up his glasses. "His strength is on a completely different level from ours.""His bounty is at least over five hundred million.""Five... five hundred million???"Hearing Ben's words, Nami went numb...Never mind five hundred million; they already found the eighty-million Crocodile extremely troublesome. What kind of concept was five hundred million?Unimaginable, truly unimaginable."So Ace has become this strong now..." Luffy said with a competitive look. "Looks like I have to work hard too!"Back then, he had promised to compete with Ace for supremacy.He wouldn't give up the position of Pirate King!Five hundred million, right? After he defeats Crocodile, will his bounty rise to eighty million?Looks like he needs to work hard!At this moment, Luffy felt a very urgent desire to increase his bounty."Don't worry, as long as we defeat Crocodile, Luffy's bounty will be at least a hundred million," Ben said with a faint smile. "However, to catch up to Ace, it might take some time."Even with his help, it would have to be after Enies Lobby.Or perhaps...After the Marineford War!On the other side, Smoker looked at Ace with a grim expression. "Why are you here?""Just here to see my worthless little brother," Acelaughed. "And help him solve a problem while I'm at it."For example, this group of Marines~"I didn't expect Straw Hat to be your brother." Smoker's brow furrowed. "Could you also be..."But isn't this guy called Portgas D. Ace?Why...Smoker knew the significance of Straw Hat's surname; if things were as he suspected, he might be Vice Admiral Garp's grandson.That's why he hadn't gone for the kill all this time, wanting at most to capture him.Could it be that Vice Admiral Garp has more than one grandson?"That's not convenient to tell you," Ace said indifferently. He glanced back and, seeing that Luffyhad already run far away, spoke up. "How about we make a deal? Don't continue chasing them, okay?""Do you think I'll agree?" Smoker said coldly. "Actually, if I can capture you instead, that's acceptable too."The Second Division Commander of the Whitebeard Pirates—he was very much looking forward to catching such a big fish!"Then let's see what you've got," Ace said calmly, then his eyes narrowed. "Fire Fist!"Boom!..."Luffy, is that big shot really your brother?" Back on the ship, Usopp looked at Luffy with surprise. That was a subordinate of one of the Four Emperors.A person with a bounty of five hundred million—this was just too terrifying."Big shot?" A question mark appeared over Luffy's head. What big shot?"He is indeed my brother, no mistake there. But I didn't expect that he had also eaten a Devil Fruit." Luffy thought about the days he used to get beaten up; wasn't he going to be even stronger now?No way, I'll have to have a good match with him in a bit."Yo, hello there~" Ace, who had appeared on the railing at some unknown point, greeted the members of the Straw Hat Pirates with a smile."When did you get here?""Just now." Ben pushed his glasses. "A small boat that uses flames as propulsion, it's quite convenient.""But aren't you afraid of encountering big winds and waves?"A single tsunami would probably cost him his life, wouldn't it?Or could his Fire Fist already punch through the mighty forces of nature?"Maybe my luck is just good. At least I haven't encountered any tsunamis or anything.""Hahahahaha." Ace laughed very happily, then jumped down next to Luffy and said, "Luffy, you kid still haven't changed at all."Still that same silly look, my idiot little brother~"Hmph, you're the same." Luffy huffed, then pulled a wine barrel from the side, placed it in front of himself, and put his hand on it."Hmph, you still like doing things your own way just like before." Ace shook his head with a smile and then put his hand on it too.Both of them exerted force at the same time, beginning a contest of strength."Oh, go for it!""Go Luffy!""Go Luffy's brother!""Hahahahaha." Ace laughed very happily. "You have a good crew of companions~""Of course!" Luffy said while starting to push harder. "They are my most precious treasure.""Is that so!" Ace also began to exert more force. "That's really nice!"Looking at the two guys whose faces were turning red from the strain, Nami was a bit speechless. "Are they children?"Ben smiled. "This is just their way of interacting."The joy of a long-awaited reunion is something ordinary people can't appreciate."Chopper, who do you think will win?" Usoppnudged Chopper and asked."I... I don't know." A drop of sweat rolled down Chopper's face. "But I feel like they're both amazing."He looked at his own arm, then at Usopp next to him."Then, Usopp, let's try it later too.""Ahem, Chopper, I have some inventions I need to work on in a bit.""Oh, I see." Chopper nodded upon hearing this. "Then never mind."Usopp breathed a sigh of relief. He had seen Chopper's Heavy Point; wouldn't arm-wrestling him be asking for death?Meanwhile, the match on the other side finally ended with the water barrel shattering—a draw!The two let out hearty laughs, appearing incredibly happy.Chapter 71: Multi-functional RV!"So, Ace, why are you here?" Luffy asked curiously. "Did you come specifically to find me?""No." Ace, squatting on the railing, shook his head. "I'm here on official business; I just stopped by to see you.""I'm with the Whitebeard Pirates now." Speaking of this, Ace turned his body so the others could see his back. "This is it. This is the mark of the Whitebeard Pirates; it's my pride.""The Whitebeard Pirates are the best pirate crew I know." Having said that, Ace invited, "Luffy, do you guys want to join the Whitebeard Pirates together?""No way," Luffy immediately refused. "I'm the man who's going to be the Pirate King."It was impossible for him to join anyone else's command.Ace smiled upon hearing this. "Figures.""But Luffy, I'm going to make Pops the Pirate King.""Whatever, we'll just have a fight when the time comes." Luffy gave a cheeky grin. "The winner gets the right to be Pirate King.""That's true too, hahahaha."After laughing, Ace's expression became serious as he said, "I'm here looking for a man named Teach.""I must capture that man."Ben's brow furrowed at the name. "Ace, is the Teachyou're talking about named Marshall D. Teach?""Yes. Do you know where he is?" Ace looked at Benand said, "If you do, please be sure to tell me where he is."Ben was silent for a moment, then sighed. "Ace, I advise you not to go.""Why?" Ace's brow furrowed. "He committed the most unforgivable crime on Whitebeard's ship: he killed a comrade.""As his commander, I must bring him back!"Committing such a mistake was unpardonable, so Ace had to catch him.Then he'd let Pops execute him personally!Ben didn't answer but instead asked another question. "Ace, do you know Red-Haired Shanks?"Before Ace could speak, Luffy cried out in surprise, "Eh?""Ben, you know Shanks too?"
Don't interrupt!" Ben said crossly, "Go play somewhere else.""Oh...""Of course I know; he's the one who guided Luffy." Ace looked at Ben with a puzzled expression and asked, "Does that have anything to do with what I'm about to say?""Of course it does!" Ben took a deep breath and said, "One of the Four Emperors, Red-Haired Shanks, has a scar on his face that almost blinded his eye.""And the person who did that is none other than Marshall D. Teach!""Even knowing that, are you still going?""Ben, where did you find out..." Usopp's words were cut off by Zoro, who shook his head, signaling him not to speak.Ace frowned. "Shanks, huh..."That man did indeed have a scar on his face. He had wondered before how such a being could be wounded. So, it was Marshall D. Teach who did it?However~"You ask if I'm still going?" Ace looked up at Ben and smiled. "If I didn't go, I wouldn't be me.""So what if he could wound Shanks?""I'm also very strong, you know!"At the same time, Ace didn't ask anything further; he had his own plans."Alright." Ben sighed, then smiled. "You really are exactly like Luffy; once you've decided on something, you won't give up no matter what.""Hahahaha, that's why we're brothers." Luffy patted Ben's shoulder with a happy face.Luffy's laughter dispelled the slightly tense atmosphere from a moment ago.Ben smiled. Since Ace insisted on going, he wouldn't stop him.After all~What reason is there to stop a man from carrying out his convictions to the end?Sanji said with a light laugh, "In 그 case, let me prepare a sumptuous meal to entertain Luffy's older brother."He then took a cigarette out of his pocket, preparing to put it in his mouth.When Ben saw Ace preparing to raise his hand to light Sanji's cigarette, his heart suddenly skipped a beat.He moved at an extremely high speed to Sanji's side and snatched the cigarette out of his mouth."What are you doing?!" Sanji said with some annoyance, "If you want to smoke, I can give you one. Why snatch it from my mouth?""Enough, stop talking and go cook." Ben coughed lightly and said, "Don't you know smoking is bad for your health?"He couldn't exactly say that everyone who had their cigarette lit for them had been sent away.Although it was a bit metaphysical, that was indeed the case!"I get it." Sanji walked back to the cabin with an annoyed look, "Honestly, my smoking won't affect the taste of the food."Oh well, Ben must have his reasons for doing that.Looking at his companions' puzzled gazes, Bensmiled awkwardly; he didn't know how to explain this kind of thing.At that moment, a fleet suddenly appeared in the distance. It looked like it belonged to Baroque Works!Ben was delighted; they arrived just at the right time. "Hey, everyone look, enemies are coming!"Delivering a pillow when one is sleepy—these Baroque Works agents are truly too kind!"It's a ship of the Baroque Works Billionaires!"To think this group actually caught up?This is not good news.Although their Rank is lower than the Numbered Agents, their strength is about the same as the lower-ranked Numbered Agents."Straw Hat Luffy, Fire Fist Ace!""Don't think you can escape from the palm of our hands!""Let us show you the strength of the Baroque Works Billionaires!"As long as they take them down, they will surely receive the boss's appreciation!Then they could become Numbered Agents!"Why is it them again?" Luffy looked into the distance with a look of disgust. Couldn't they just stop bothering them?They really are persistent."Let them come." Zoro drew his weapons. "I'll cut them all down.""No need for such trouble." Ace waved his hand and said, "Leave them to me. It'll be over quickly."Without waiting for the others to answer, he leaped onto his small boat.Then, he activated his fruit ability and charged forward.Under the stunned gazes of Nami and the others, Ace destroyed the entire Baroque Works fleet with a single Fire Fist strike!"Is... is he really this strong?" Chopper was completely stunned; he felt like he had encountered a god."This is just the beginning." Ben said calmly, "This sea is very vast. People who can unleash world-destroying attacks are everywhere.""I hope you don't drop your jaws when you see someone who can shatter a mountain peak with a single punch."That old man Whitebeard definitely has that kind of strength.After all, for beings like them, sinking an island during a battle is normal."How could there be such people!" Usopp was dumbfounded. "You're lying to me, right?""Believe it or not."Seeing that Ben didn't argue with him, Usoppactually believed it.But isn't that a bit too terrifying..."Luffy, this sea is so dangerous...""Ah ha ha ha ha, isn't that more interesting?" Luffylaughed very happily. "Shattering a mountain with one punch?"Looking at his raised fist, a hint of longing appeared in Luffy's eyes. "One day in the future, I will definitely be able to do it too."He always believed he would not be inferior to anyone."It seems you know quite a lot." Having dealt with all the enemies, Ace returned to the going merry. He looked at Ben with some surprise, then his brow furrowed slightly. "Who exactly are you?"Does this guy have some ulterior motive for being on Luffy's ship?After the incident with Marshall D. Teach, Ace had become somewhat sensitive."Hey, Ace, Ben is my partner!" Luffy walked to Ben's side and said.Seeing Luffy's very serious expression, Ace's furrowed brow slowly relaxed, and he then smiled apologetically. "Sorry, I shouldn't have doubted you."He was simply worried about whether his younger brother was being tricked.Ben waved his hand dismissively. "It's normal for you to think that way; I understand.""After all, I do know quite a lot."Ben smiled and then said, "I come from the New World. That should make it clear to you.""The New World, huh." Ace nodded. If that was the case, it made sense."However~" Ace looked at Ben with a meaningful gaze and said, "I suspect you're no ordinary person."Would an ordinary person know this kind of intelligence?Definitely not!So, Ace concluded that Ben's background was definitely not simple."But it doesn't matter. As long as you're Luffy's partner, that's enough." Seeing Ben about to explain something, Ace waved his hand and said, "I have great trust in Luffy's judgment."Since they were kids, Ace knew how accurate this kid Luffy's intuition was.If he decided someone was a partner, then it couldn't be wrong.Guys like Marshall D. Teach are, after all, the minority."By the way, Ace, when do you plan to leave this time?" Luffy asked Ace curiously."I received intelligence that Marshall D. Teach is in Yuba. I'll leave when we reach the fork in the road.""Then you don't have to leave yet." Ben said from the side, "The place we're going to happens to be Yuba as well.""Eh, if that's the case, isn't it on the way!" Usopp said with a look of surprise.With such a super-strong person escorting them, their path would be much easier!Talk about a full sense of security!"Really?" Ace was stunned for a moment, then smiled. "That's great.""It just so happens I can spend more time with Luffy."After all, they hadn't seen each other for several years. Since they finally met, staying together a bit longer was for the best....Crocodile stood by the window silently watching the scenery outside, his eyes flickering."It won't be long before this country falls into my hands."The current situation was very favorable for him. With 300,000 Royal Army soldiers joining the Rebel Army, the Royal Army no longer had any chance of a comeback.Now he just needed to wait for the timing to ripen, and then he could swallow the entire Royal Army in one fell swoop!After that, he could rightfully take over this country.Pluton would also fall into his hands.That's right, Crocodile's main purpose for wanting this country was for Pluton!---Asking for Flowers---Otherwise, he wouldn't even look twice at this impoverished place.