Chapter 6: The Silver BraceletLuffy resolutely slashed his right cheek to demonstrate his determination.Just watching it made Satoru's own right cheek ache; damn this empathy."Don't!""Luffy!"With Luffy's sudden action, the members of the Red Hair Pirates, who had just been watching the show, instantly panicked."It hurts, it hurts, it hurts!!""Idiot! What are you doing!!"Shanks flashed over, and in the blink of an eye, he had Luffy tucked under his arm, "dragging" him back onto the deck."Quick, treat this idiot!"On the pier, Satoru sat in his wheelchair, watching the commotion on the ship. Human joy and sorrow are not universal; he just found them noisy...."Alright, get off the ship. Honestly, you, don't do things like this in the future.""Scars on a man are medals of honor, but self-inflicted ones don't count."Hongo, the ship's doctor of the Red Hair Pirates, stopped the bleeding for Luffy and applied a bandage. Although it wasn't a major injury, it would definitely leave a scar. He was quite angry at Luffy's "self-mutilation"; this child, of all places to slash, he had to choose his face."Off the ship, off the ship. Honestly, you've given us quite the welcome gift, Luffy."Shanks urged Luffy to get off the ship from behind. Honestly, it would be better to go drink...."Hm?""Who is this?"Shanks and Luffy descended the stairs from the ship and finally noticed Satoru."His name is Satoru. He fell from the sky, and he's really good at cooking."Before Satoru could finish answering, Luffyenthusiastically introduced him.Satoru thought to himself, have I become "Little Sister Bai"?"Yes, just as Luffy said.""The feeling of falling from the sky is not pleasant."Looking at his legs, which were wrapped in bandages, Satoru replied with a faint, bitter smile on his face."Hahaha, that certainly isn't pleasant!""To still have to take care of Luffy in that state, how miserable, hahaha!"This was Shanks's merciless mockery of Satoru."Huh? Shanks, how do you know it's not me taking care of Satoru!!""You already said he's very good at cooking. Haven't you been taken care of by him all these days, with him cooking for you?""..."Luffy was speechless; it seemed that was indeed the case. However, the food Satoru cooked was indeed delicious...."Brothers! Cheers! To Luffy's courage and our great journey... and our new friend, Satoru! Cheers!""Cheers!"Everyone went to Makino's tavern to hold a banquet, and Shanks raised his glass happily.Satoru took a sip of grape juice and showed a brief smile.Ah, thanks for mentioning me. If it weren't for that pause, I'd be even more grateful.At the bar, Luffy joined in the commotion and brought up wanting to go out to sea again.Satoru sat in the back, still in his wheelchair.Beside him was the famous vice-Captain of the Red Hair Pirates, Benn Beckman.His black Long Hair was tied into a ponytail, with a lock of hair hanging down his left temple.He wore a black V-neck T-shirt, army green cargo pants, and black Martin boots, with a flintlock rifle tucked into his yellow belt.Compared to the comrades in front who were arm-in-arm, singing and dancing, Beckman was relatively calm, sitting on a chair in the back with his legs crossed."Hm?""Benn Beckman."Noticing Satoru staring at him, Beckman introduced himself in a friendly manner."Satoru.""Nice to meet you, Mr. Beckman.""Smoking is harmful to health."Satoru's words made Beckman's hand pause as he was about to light his cigarette."I don't care.""I said it's harmful to my health.""...""Hahaha, you brat, I'm going to smoke it anyway. What are you going to do about it?"It was the first time Beckman had seen a kid like this; he found it a bit funny."I'm not going to do anything; I can't beat you.""However, if you feel bad about it, why don't you teach me marksmanship while you're in the village?"Satoru stated his purpose. Every one of these people was a powerhouse; catching one to teach him would certainly be good."You want to learn to shoot?""Do you have a gun?""And your legs..."Beckman asked three questions in a row."Do you shoot with your feet?""Who says you can't shoot with your feet?""...""I have a gun."Satoru raised his right hand and grabbed the air, and a silver flintlock rifle appeared in his hand, as if by magic.Half a month ago, after removing the bandages on his hands, Satoru woke up the next day to find a silver bracelet on his right wrist.He couldn't take it off, but Satoru didn't care; it looked quite nice.But two days later, Satoru wanted to eat an apple but didn't have a fruit knife. Unexpectedly, the next second, a fruit knife appeared in his right hand, and the bracelet was gone.Satoru was very surprised, but he vaguely guessed the function of the bracelet."Could it be?"It moved according to his will.The fruit knife instantly turned into a long sword."As expected!"Satoru thought again, and the long sword turned back into a bracelet.This bracelet had the ability to turn into any weapon.Satoru thought, this must be the third ability the management system didn't finish talking about.It was a perfect match with his own Replication Fruit that could replicate others' abilities.
Chapter 7: Showing OffIn Makino's tavern, Satoru turned his bracelet into a Flintlock Short Rifle, just like a magic trick.Beckman was slightly surprised by this move."You can do magic tricks too?"Satoru didn't answer; he turned his arm, and the rifle turned back into a Dagger, then another turn, and it returned to a bracelet.Beckman naturally saw that this swaying bracelet was unusual."I found it.""It can turn into any weapon according to my will."Satoru explained; everything can be found."Hmm~""A Devil Fruit?""The Marine has indeed developed technology that allows objects to 'eat' Devil Fruits.""Currently, this technology is only held by the Marine."As Beckman spoke, his gaze slowly turned toward Satoru, his meaning simple and clear."I am not a Marine.""There are good and bad Marines, but the most important thing is serving those Celestial Dragons.""I'm from Loguetown, and I worked with my big brothers escorting merchant ships.""With poor strength, we only had business within the four seas; we didn't dare go to the Grand Line.""I found this bracelet on a ship during a job and took it when no one was looking.""And a few days ago, the merchant ship we were escorting was suddenly attacked by a group of extremely powerful people.""I think they might have come for this bracelet.""But because of the uniqueness of my Devil Fruit Ability, under the cover of the others, I escaped. However, I still suffered internal injuries and fell from the sky, just happening to run into Vice Admiral Garp and Luffy."Satoru gave a long explanation, more detailed than the version he gave to Garp.Beckman flicked away his cigarette butt and crushed it under his foot."So, you want me to teach you marksmanship because you want revenge?""Also, what fruit did you eat?""Living in this world, one must have a goal to pursue; revenge must definitely be taken.""Paramecia-type Replication Fruit. It can replicate others' abilities."Satoru took a sip of grape juice; he was thirsty after that long speech."Direct replication? For real?"It wasn't that Beckman didn't believe it, but if it were true, it would be quite "fair" for people like them who had practiced hard for years to have their skills replicated in an instant."It has flaws.""It can only replicate half of the strength.""And there's a time limit. Once the time is up, if I want to use it again, I have to replicate it once more.""However, if it's a skill-based ability, once I replicate it, I can remember the method and the technique. Learning it is quite simple.""I was a kitchen idiot seven days ago."Satoru's explanation carried a hint of humblebragging, but this fruit was indeed heaven-defying.Beckman lit another cigarette and sized up Satoru. If it were true, he even felt like recruiting him."Replication Fruit.""Fine, you want me to teach you, right?""Watch closely. Try it once, and if I'm satisfied, I'll teach you.""Lucky!"Beckman pulled out his gun and suddenly shouted. Over there, the cook of the Red Hair Pirates, Lucky Roux, who had his back turned, spun around. He saw Beckman pointing a gun at him, the muzzle tilting upward slightly.Lucky understood, showing a row of white teeth. While biting into the meat on the bone in his right hand, he used his left hand to pick up an empty wine bottle from the table and threw it upward.The moment he threw the bottle, Beckman raised the muzzle and pulled the trigger."Bang!""Crash!"White smoke rose from the muzzle as the wine bottle in the air instantly shattered."Oooooh!!"The comrades cheered enthusiastically for their First Mate's sudden display of skill.Luffy also watched with starry eyes. So cool!!!"Are you crazy, Benn?"Only Shanks would dare speak to Beckman like that.Beckman blew on the muzzle, tucked the gun back into his waist, ignored Shanks, and looked at Satoru."Mm.""Your turn."Satoru glanced at him and raised his hand. The Flintlock Short Rifle automatically appeared in his hand. He closed his eyes and activated his fruit ability. In his mind, he recalled Beckman's actions of drawing the gun, raising the muzzle, and pulling the trigger, analyzing them step by step as if in slow motion.Opening his eyes, Satoru, who had never touched a gun before, now felt quite comfortable holding one."Lucky, give him a hand."Lucky chewed on his meat, wondering if this kid in the wheelchair could possibly have such marksmanship.But he didn't ask; he just picked up a bottle and threw it up.Satoru immediately raised the muzzle."Bang!"The bullet left the chamber. In a slow-motion close-up, the bullet was followed by a shockwave as it flew through in an instant."Crash!"Lucky raised his hand and caught the wine bottle. It wasn't that Satoru had missed; at least he had shattered the neck of the bottle."Oooooh!!""Who would have thought!! It's Satoru, right?""I didn't expect you to be a hidden talent!! Amazing! Amazing!"With the person changed to Satoru, everyone was still very supportive, feeling quite surprised that this kid in a wheelchair had such marksmanship.The "wife and child abandoning" Sniper of the Red Hair Pirates, Yasopp, also expressed appreciation for Satoru's shot. Without hard practice, one couldn't reach this level. Although he didn't hit the center of the bottle, for someone of Satoru's age, it was already very good.But what he didn't know was that today was the first time Satoru had ever touched a gun.
Chapter 8: Mountain Bandit KingSatoru showed off his skills in front of everyone and also proved the authenticity of his devil fruit to Beckman.Beckman believed him; Satoru's thumb and index finger had no calluses, truly resembling someone touching a gun for the first time."Oh!!!"Both Luffy and Shanks looked at Satoru with starry eyes.Luffy did so because Satoru was so cool; he was the same age as him but so powerful.Indeed, that was Luffy's personality; seeing a peer who was better than him didn't make him jealous, but rather made him think the other person was cool.As for Shanks, he saw a genius he could recruit onto his ship...."How was it? Although I didn't hit them all, are you satisfied, Mr. Beckman?""Or, can I change how I address you?"Satoru asked with a smile.Beckman, biting his cigarette and crossing his legs, looked at the precocious kid in front of him. Just as he was smiling and about to say something, the tavern owner, Makino, suddenly ran out of the kitchen in a panic."Everyone!""What happened! Why were there gunshots? Are you all okay!!"Makino, with short dark green hair and a headscarf—suspected by some to be Shanks's wife—made her entrance."Hahaha, it's nothing, Makino. It's just that Benn was acting crazy, and our new friend, Satoru, showed us a trick."Shanks explained, though... well, it was as if he hadn't explained anything at all.Satoru had no choice but to explain that Beckmanwanted to test his marksmanship by shooting at wine bottles.He apologized for the shards on the floor."So that's how it is.""I'm glad you're all okay.""Then would you like to eat something? Luffy, Satoru."Knowing they were just playing, Makino's worries vanished, and a smile returned to her face. She didn't blame them for shooting inside the tavern."That's great! Then, put it on my tab using my [Treasure]."With food involved, Luffy definitely wanted in, and he replied with a smile."You brat, you're lying, aren't you? Where would you get any [Treasure]?"A challenge from Shanks.Luffy immediately retorted to explain."Nonsense! Once Satoru and I become pirates, we will definitely find lots and lots of treasure. I'll use that money to pay off the tab then!"Satoru: Are you dragging me into this already?"Hehehe, I'll look forward to it!"Makino didn't know if she was just humoring him or if she truly believed him, but she was smiling quite happily...."Thank you, Miss Makino.""You're welcome, Satoru. Enjoy your meal."Makino served Luffy and Satoru a plate of grilled meat.Over there, Luffy was eating his grilled meat and chatting with Shanks again, still about wanting to go out to sea together."Let's talk after we eat."Satoru didn't rush to eat; instead, he stared at Beckman.Beckman was being evasive; he had already decided in his heart to teach Satoru, but was considering whether to bring him onto the ship.Satoru nodded slightly; then he'd talk after eating. He cut with his knife and stabbed with his fork, but before the meat reached his mouth, he heard a "bang." The tavern door was kicked open, giving Satoru a start.He turned his head to look, and sure enough, it was that person.Holding beer to take on the Four Emperors, stepping on the future Pirate King; slaughtering over sixty Four Emperors, none other than the Mountain Bandit King of the East Blue...."Mountain Bandit King" Higuma kicked open the tavern door with a bunch of his underlings. Satoruhad guessed they would come, and immediately looked in Luffy's direction.Sure enough, chewing with his mouth full and holding it in his hand, Luffy had already eaten the Rubber-Rubber Fruit as a dessert.Satoru hadn't tasted the fruit; the Replication Fruitability was given directly by the system. However, he knew the reputation of the taste of a devil fruit. Being able to eat it so nonchalantly, Luffy could be considered a tough guy."Pardon the intrusion!""Hehehe, so this is what pirates look like. It's my first time seeing them; they look so stupid..."As the Mountain Bandit King, Higuma was full of confidence and launched into a round of mockery at the Red Hair Pirates.Everyone looked at their group in confusion. Higumaassumed they were stunned with fear and walked straight to the bar, squeezing in next to Shanks, not taking Shanks seriously at all."We are mountain bandits. Today, we aren't here to trash the place or rob you; sell us ten barrels of booze."He was quite polite."I'm very sorry! The alcohol has all been sold out for today," Makino replied with a hint of nervousness."That's strange. Then what are these pirates drinking? Could it be water?""No, I mean, all the alcohol in the tavern is right here; this is all there is."Makino explained.Satoru continued eating his grilled meat; it was none of his business...But.Sometimes, one shouldn't speak too soon."Even a disabled brat gets to drink!""Do you pirates recruit just anyone? Hahaha!!"Looking at the mountain bandit in front of him, Satoru didn't expect it to come to him."Kid, becoming a pirate at such a young age, I'm afraid you'll piss your pants the moment you hit the battlefield.""Take a good look. My head is worth 8 million Berries; I'm a top-wanted criminal.""I've already killed 56 people like your Captain.""Don't get scared and piss yourself."Intimidating a child, satisfying oneself by belittling others—everyone knew what kind of trash he was.Satoru: I'm so scared.Putting down his knife and fork, Satoru said politely."That's truly amazing!!""Our Captain can't compare to you (well, he can't, he can't even compare to the 800,000 remainder of his 4,098,000,000).""Since you're so amazing, can I ask you for a favor?""Oh~ You're smart. What is it? Speak up."Being buttered up, Higuma was very pleased."We are very short on money. Could you turn yourself in for the bounty and give the money to us?"Silence. As soon as Satoru said this, the tavern went quiet.Followed by a round of laughter from the Red Hair Pirates."Hahahaha!!""That's a good suggestion! Kid Satoru.""We are indeed'short on money,' hahahaha."
Chapter 9: You Grabbed the Wrong PersonTrying to mess with Satoru, only to be messed with by Satoru instead, Higuma's face turned bright red with anger; he drew his sword and slashed at Satoru."You brat! You're asking for death!"As he drew his sword, the henchmen behind him also drew their guns.Satoru didn't dodge, as Higuma's blade wouldn't be able to reach him; Beckman drew his gun and blocked the blade with the barrel."Hey, hey, drawing a sword on a child in a wheelchair, how could you do such a thing?""Besides, he's my apprentice!"Beckman said, biting down on his cigarette and glaring at Higuma.Luffy also immediately jumped down from his chair, wanting to "save" Satoru.Shanks grabbed him, but unexpectedly, Luffy's arm was stretched out."Eh!!!!""His arm stretched out!!""Could it be that you!!"Luffy panicked too, mouth wide open."What is going on here!!"Satoru was the calmest of them all, while Higumaand his group were completely bewildered."It's gone!""The 'Rubber-Rubber Fruit' we seized from the enemy ship is gone!""What!!"Lucky Roux immediately thought of the Rubber-Rubber Fruit and picked up the box that held it; sure enough, it was empty.Then, Lucky Roux took out a picture book, pointed to the image of the Rubber-Rubber Fruit on it, and asked Luffy if he had eaten it."Ah, I ate it as dessert...""It tasted terrible."Luffy replied blankly.Shanks cupped Luffy's face and said excitedly to Luffy, "The Rubber-Rubber Fruit is a treasure known as a Devil Fruit; whoever eats it becomes a rubber human and will never be able to learn how to swim for the rest of their life!!""What! No way!!"Luffy's jaw hit the floor, his face full of disbelief; if he couldn't learn to swim, how could he be a pirate!!"Enough!!""Bang!!"After all the farce, Higuma, who had been ignored, was furious; if he waited any longer, his meal would get cold.He drew his gun and fired a shot straight at Shanks.But the moment Higuma fired, Beckman knocked Higuma's arm away with the barrel of his gun, and the bullet hit the ceiling.Shanks held down his straw hat, stood up, and finally exuded a bit of the aura of one of the Four Emperors."Since you've fired a gun, you're gambling with your life.""Wha..."Before Higuma could even finish saying "What," his henchmen behind him were all taken down in an instant by the members of the Red Hair Pirates.Higuma's expression changed instantly; he was dumbfounded, cold sweat streaming down, having lost his previous bravado."Bastard!"Holding his breath, Higuma threw a smoke bomb, and the tavern was instantly filled with smoke."Oh no, it's a smoke bomb!!"Everyone exclaimed in panic."Damn it, you grabbed the wrong person!""Cut the crap, you little brat!""Satoru!""Ah! Damn brat!"The voices of Satoru, Higuma, and Luffy came from within the smoke.When the smoke cleared, the figures of Luffy, Satoru, and Higuma were gone."It's over! What if Luffy and Satoru get taken away by accident!"Shanks frantically grabbed his own hair, but suddenly saw Satoru lying there outside the tavern."Satoru!"...In the chaos of the smoke earlier, Higuma had grabbed Satoru by the collar, which was why Satorusaid he had grabbed the wrong person.But fate does not make mistakes.Worried about Satoru, Luffy's potential exploded; having just eaten the devil fruit, he was able to control his arm to swing out and grab Higuma, then retract it to close the distance quickly.And then, they were all taken away together...Higuma, with one under each arm, ran out of the tavern door. Satoru wouldn't just sit and wait for death; his bracelet turned into a dagger, and he stabbed Higuma directly. Higuma, in pain, simply dropped Satoru and took Luffy away...."Satoru, are you okay!"Shanks and the others immediately rushed out of the tavern. Beckman, smoking his cigarette, pushed the wheelchair out and helped Satoru into it."I'm fine! The docks, Higuma took Luffy to the docks!"Satoru immediately indicated he was okay and pointed in the direction of the docks.Shanks nodded and immediately set off toward the docks.Beckman spat out his cigarette butt and, the next second, pushed the wheelchair to chase after him.At that speed, Satoru never expected that his first time "speeding" in 18 years would be in a wheelchair...."Oh no!!"Upon reaching the docks, Satoru saw from a distance that the Lord of the Coast had bitten down on Higuma along with the small boat.Luffy was splashing in the water ahead, and the Lord of the Coast had already noticed him."Wa-woo... hippo... hippo""Gulp... help! Save me!!"Shanks increased his speed again, rushing out in an instant, stepping through the air; Satoru could only see his afterimage.Thinking about how Luffy had approached Higumajust to save him, how could Satoru just watch?His bracelet turned into a short gun; without aiming, he raised his hand and fired a shot."Bang!"Sparks burst from the muzzle, the bullet left the chamber, flying out with a rolling wave of air, striking the Lord of the Coast accurately in the eye."Roar!!!"The Lord of the Coast let out a roar in pain and immediately plunged back into the sea.Meanwhile, Shanks had reached the water, protecting Luffy in his arms.However, as mentioned earlier, fate does not make mistakes; Satoru's bullet was a step too slow, and Shanks's left arm was still bitten off."Luffy, it's okay now; if you're a man, don't cry.""Bu... but, Shanks... your arm!!!""It's just a small matter, just an arm... as long as you're okay.""Waa... wuu... waaahhhh!!!"Leaning in Shanks's arms, Luffy's crying echoed throughout the docks. While moved, Satoru still didn't understand why Shanks had his arm bitten off.
Chapter 10: InheritanceThe time experiment regarding "v me 50" mentioned earlier.The good news is that the experiment succeeded.The bad news is that time passed even faster.In the blink of an eye, the month-long stay of the Red Hair Pirates was over.During the first half-month, Satoru received "special training" from the officers of the Red Hair Pirates.Afterward, they set sail for half a month, completing exactly one month. This return was for saying goodbye..."I will become the Pirate King!!"Luffy's excited voice rang out on the pier of Foosha Village.After a month, Shanks and his crew were ready to set sail again. They wouldn't be returning to Foosha Village this time—not forever, but certainly not in the short term. Their year-long journey using Foosha Village as a base camp had ended."Heh... You want to surpass us?""In that case...""I'll leave this hat with you for now.""This is a hat I cherish deeply.""The next time we meet, you absolutely must return it to me, once you've become a splendid pirate..."A famous scene.Shanks took off his straw hat, knelt down, and placed the straw hat on Luffy's head. This is called inheritance.Hidden by the hat, little Luffy was already in tears.On the other side, Satoru and Beckman, who had spent half a month together as master and apprentice, quietly watched the scene.During the latter half-month while Red Hair and the others were out sailing, Satoru's leg had recovered. However, the little brat's height only reached Beckman's waist; that position would be easy to stab, huh.Shifting his gaze from Luffy and Shanks, Satorulooked up and met Beckman's eyes, then his gaze slowly dropped again, falling upon the flintlock pistol tucked into Beckman's waist."What are you looking at? This is how I earn my living. What are you scheming, kid?"Beckman blocked Satoru's view. That kid really knows how to pick 'em.Satoru didn't answer. He turned his head, looked back at Luffy and Shanks, and let out a slight sigh, as if saying nothing, yet saying everything."You little rascal!"Beckman naturally knew that Satoru was hinting at him.After thinking for a moment, he pulled a bullet out of his pants pocket."I call this 'The Last Bullet'.""The sea is mysterious and fascinating, but it is also fraught with danger.""Since you want to be a pirate, you will definitely have enemies.""This bullet I'm giving you.""It could be a fatal shot against an enemy.""Or a desperate struggle when facing a dead end.""Or perhaps a quick end for yourself.""It carries great meaning."Beckman placed the bullet into Satoru's palm, explaining at length the significance of this bullet.Satoru glanced at the bullet in his hand, then looked up at Beckman."Thank you, Master.""But I must say, that was quite a performance.""Taking a random bullet and having to invent so many words to fool me.""...""You're the only one who knows how to talk, aren't you, kid!""For once, can't you be like Luffy—crying and hugging my leg to express your feelings of farewell?"This was Beckman's complaint: Look at others, they show so much emotion!Satoru glanced at Luffy, who was saying goodbye to Shanks and starting to cry as he spoke."I'm not that sentimental."Luffy:???It wasn't that Luffy was sentimental; Satoru had the body of a seven-year-old and the soul of an eighteen-year-old. If he were truly the same age as Luffy, he might cry too..."Anchor up!""Hoist the sails!""Set sail!"Farewell always comes.Satoru and Luffy stood on the pier, waving goodbye to Shanks and the crew.As the ship turned, Satoru tossed something that flew towards Beckman.Beckman, holding a cigarette in one hand, quickly reached out with the other and caught it. Opening his hand, he saw a silver lighter.He looked up at Satoru; the kid was smiling at him."Smoke less, Master."Having spent half a month with Beckman, Satorufelt he was practically marinated in smoke.Beckman smiled and asked."Where did you get the money to buy this, kid?""Who said I bought it? I swiped it," Satoru replied.Beckman was stunned for a moment, then burst into laughter."Hahaha, you brat, you really look like a pirate! Hahaha!""We'll be waiting for you on the high seas, in the future!""If you don't achieve something outstanding, don't blame us for laughing at you!"Shanks was also very happy, showing off his white teeth."That's right! Next time we meet, you must become splendid pirates! Luffy, Satoru!""Until we meet again!"The voices echoed on the Foosha Village pier and resonated in the hearts of the two boys.The ship left them with its silhouette, slowly sailing toward the sunset and the distance.On the ship.Beckman looked at the lighter in his hand, flicked the half-smoked cigarette he was holding into the sea, took out a new one, and lit it with the lighter.For some reason, this puff tasted much better."Look how happy you are."Shanks said."Who wouldn't be happy to have a good apprentice.""And that kid Luffy, I've known him for a year.""These two kids are going to make a name for themselves!"Beckman replied, looking up at the sky."Indeed.""After all, that kid Luffy is exactly like I was when I was little.""And with Satoru helping him, it's even more certain.""Aren't they just miniature versions of you and me! Hahaha."Shanks suddenly realized that Luffy and Satoruresembled him and Beckman.Beckman craned his neck back and quickly denied it, "How am I like that 'silver-tongued' kid?"Although he said that, he glanced at the lighter again and showed a knowing smile.The comrades found their Vice Captain's expression amusing."Enough talk!""Let's start the banquet!"Shanks raised his remaining "two" hands (｢･ω･)｢, announcing the start of the banquet!The comrades cheered in agreement; the Red Hair Pirates were professionals when it came to banquets.There's a saying that goes.Whitebeard is collecting sons.Kaido is manufacturing devil fruit.Big Mom is establishing Totto Land.Red Hair, meanwhile, is holding banquets.
Chapter 11: I'm the Man Who Will Become the Pirate King!During the half-month he spent with the Red Hair Pirates, Satoru discovered a flaw in the Replication Fruit.If a person possesses multiple abilities, such as a Devil Fruit Ability, martial arts, gunmanship, swordsmanship, Armament Haki, or Observation Haki (Haoshoku cannot be replicated).Then, if Satoru wants to replicate, he can only replicate one ability.As mentioned before, after replication, it can only be used once. For skill-based abilities, one replication grants immediate mastery. However, Devil Fruit Abilities are different; after one use, another replication is needed to use it again.And there's a third outcome beyond these two: the issue of physical constitution.Even the best techniques and abilities require a good physique to support them. Satoru was afflicted with a 'frail and sickly' debuff by the system, and training himself would take too much time.Therefore, he will probably set sail with Luffy in the future, constantly replicating Luffy's physique, using it once and then replicating it again. After all, in the Pirate World, who has a stronger physique (aura) than Luffy? He's practically an unkillable cockroach.As for what abilities Satoru replicated from the Red Hair Pirates during this half-month, that's a story for later. This is his capital for future adventures... "I'm the man who will become the Pirate King!"Inside Makino's bar, Luffy stood on the central table, shouting his dream and wish.He wanted to pull Satoru up with him, but Satorurefused. Does he even need to think why?Silence fell in the bar for three seconds, then burst into waves of laughter.Makino also looked at Luffy with doting affection, not caring at all that he was standing on the table."Hahaha, little Luffy really has big dreams!""Hahaha, do you have that ability, little Luffy? The sea is extremely dangerous.""Of course, I've become a Rubber Man! Although I'll be a landlubber my whole life, it's really powerful!""And Satoru also agreed to be my comrade, he's very strong!"Luffy pulled his mouth wide with both hands, demonstrating his Rubber-Rubber Fruit Ability."Really? Then we support you! If you become the Pirate King, our village will also bask in your glory! Hahaha."The villagers were still very kind to Luffy."Bask in glory?""What glory is there in being a pirate!""Although it's incredible that you became a Rubber Man, so what?""I've told you many times not to become a pirate! Luffy, don't let the town be stained!""Although that Captain is quite reasonable! Don't associate with him anymore!"The Old Mayor, wearing a striped hat and striped pants, tough-mouthed but soft-hearted, made his appearance. He fiercely tapped his cane on the ground, expressing strong disapproval of Luffy's idea of becoming a pirate.Luffy didn't listen at all, covering his ears and sticking out his tongue, looking like he hated being lectured.As soon as the mayor finished, Luffy immediately replied."I don't care, I will definitely become the Pirate King!""You! Said! You want! To be! What!!""Luffy!!!"Like the voice of a demon, Luffy had clearly forgotten that today was the day Garp returned. Satoru had also forgotten, as he had been studying his Devil Fruit Ability these days.The voice was like a curse, and Luffy, as if cursed into a puppet, stiffly turned his head to see Garpstanding at the bar's entrance in a black suit."Grandpa, I..."Luffy felt a little guilty, as Garp's fists were not to be trifled with, but Luffy felt the hat on his back, and for some reason, his confidence surged."I'm the man who will become the Pirate King!"A vein immediately popped on Garp's forehead. Good kid, you're not even hiding it in front of me, are you?Garp slowly walked into the bar, approaching Luffy. Everyone in the bar fell silent, watching them.He looked at Luffy, then Garp quickly shifted his gaze to Satoru."White Kid, didn't I tell you to watch Luffy? And you let him hang out with those Red Hair guys!"Satoru felt guilty; he wished Luffy would hang out with Shanks and the others.Not knowing how to answer, Satoru chose to play dumb, directly climbing onto the table to stand with Luffy and raising Luffy's hand."Luffy will definitely become the Pirate King! I support him!! We will get the great treasure!"Luffy smiled happily; of course, he was happy to have someone support him.Garp's face instantly darkened, and veins popped up on his face."You two brats!!!!!"..."Damn it! It hurts so much, even though I'm rubber, why does it still hurt! Let go of me, Grandpa!"On the mountain path of Mt. Colubo, Garp held two Little Brats, one in each hand.His left hand held Satoru, his right hand grabbed Luffy, and on his back was... oh, nothing on his back.Garp yanked on half of Luffy's face, lifting him up. Luffy kept hitting Garp's thigh with his hands in protest. Satoru, however, dared not resist; he knew they were probably going to Dadan's house next.Garp said, disappointed."You two brats, Pirate King, great treasure!""You've been brainwashed by that Red Hair guy, haven't you!""It was truly a miscalculation to leave you two in the unreliable Foosha Village. I thought White Kidwould be more sensible, but I forgot you're also just a Little Brat!""I let you stay because your Devil Fruit Abilityseemed good, but I didn't expect you'd also be brainwashed!""You, Luffy, and Ace can only become excellent Marines in the future!"Satoru: Yes, yes, you're right.
Chapter 12: Ace and the Dadan Family"Bang bang bang!""Come out, Dadan!"Garp knocked hard on the Dadan Family's wooden door.Three people immediately emerged from the house, led, of course, by the pillar of the family, "Fist Saint" Dadan.Two people stood beside her.One was tall with a rooster-comb haircut, named Magra.The other was small and thin, with fish-like eyes, named Dogra.There were other members of the Dadan Family in the house, but they were unimportant, so let's just call them unnamed extras... "Mr. Garp, please spare me. Ace is already ten years old, we can't control him anymore. Please take him away!"As soon as Dadan came out, she started complaining before Garp could even speak, wanting Garp to take Ace away. Little did she know that Garp wouldn't just refuse to take him, but would also bring two more.Without waiting for Garp's reply, Dadan saw Luffyand Satoru. She now felt a headache whenever she saw children."Hey hey hey!! Who are these two kids!!!""Hello, my name is Satoru, and this is Luffy.""Luffy is Mr. Garp's grandson, and I'm... someone who just freeloads. If nothing unexpected happens, we two should be living with you for a while."Satoru bowed slightly. Dadan was stunned for a moment, thinking he was a polite child, but then she became flustered after hearing the rest.She immediately looked at Garp, who nodded, indicating that Satoru was telling the truth."Plus... plus Mr. Garp's grandson!! And another... polite brat! Mr. Garp, please spare us!!"Dadan began to beg for mercy. One Ace was enough, and now there were two more. How were they supposed to live?Garp didn't want them to "live." He smiled and threatened Dadan, asking if they wanted to go to jail or raise children.Dadan immediately complained. Although she didn't want to be arrested, sometimes she felt that jail was more comfortable than this. One Ace was already hard enough to handle, and now two more!She was very resistant. We don't know how mischievous Ace was as a child to make Dadan and them feel this way.And just as Garp and Dadan were talking.Luffy noticed Ace returning and pulled Satoru over.Little Ace sat on his spoils, a dead wild bull, carrying a blood-stained pipe, his eyes grimly staring at Luffyand Satoru.As soon as they met, he gave them a welcome gift: two spits.Luffy was dumbfounded as it landed on his face."Ew! Spit! So dirty!!""Who are you!"Although Satoru wasn't a germaphobe, he also didn't like being spat on. He dodged with a sidestep.Ace saw that he had dodged. How could he tolerate this? He continued to spit! So Satoru continued to dodge.Still spitting!Then still dodging!"Oh, Ace.""Oh, Ace, you're back."Seeing that the adults had noticed, Ace stoppedGarp walked over and introduced Luffy and Satoru."This is Ace, who is three years older than you.""From now on, you'll be living together for a while, so get along well."Garp said it lightly, but Luffy glared angrily at Acebecause he had just been spat on.Dadan also exclaimed."Is this matter just decided like that?!!""Do you have an objection?" Garp's tone became a bit more serious."Then we will take care of them!"Dadan said they weren't being cowardly, but rather pragmatic... "I! Hate mountain bandits the most!"Luffy's impression of mountain bandits was entirely based on Higuma's group, and he spoke without hesitation in the Dadan Family's home."Who cares about you, you stinky brat!""If you don't want to stay here, then get out and go to the wilderness!"Dadan was very unkind, shouting at Luffy, while her subordinates quickly tried to calm her down.Luffy didn't care, but instead drooled as he watched Ace gnawing on meat."I don't have enough food, I want to eat meat too."Satoru smiled helplessly and picked out one of the two pieces of meat from his bowl for Luffy. This was a privilege he only had because he was the chef.Ace also had a slight change of opinion about Satoru because of his cooking skills, but he still disliked him.Luffy immediately beamed with joy.Dadan, on the other hand, fiercely explained the Dadan Family's rules of survival."Ace can eat meat because that's the wild bull he hunted. I only allow him at the table because he handed over a portion of his prey!""As for White Kid, it's because his cooking skills are good, and he took on the job of chef, which is why he gets meat!""Mountain bandits aren't doing well right now!""Starting tomorrow, you two will work hard for me: sweeping, washing clothes, polishing shoes, cleaning weapons, plus theft, plunder, fraud, and murder!"How... ferocious. I don't know why Garp thought the atmosphere here was better than Foosha Village.Pointing at Luffy's nose, Dadan shouted while eating meat, but then her words turned timid."Listen carefully... you absolutely cannot tell that Garp guy about what you do here."Calling him 'mister' to his face, and 'that guy' behind his back, how real."You can only eat one bowl of rice and drink one cup of water a day. You have to figure out the rest yourselves and support yourselves."Honestly, if Satoru at the same age in his world's orphanage was treated and asked to do this, he might cry bitterly and then starve to death on the streets someday.But who was Luffy? He was someone who never got discouraged."Got it."Luffy replied calmly, and Satoru also nodded indifferently.Dadan slumped, failing to establish her authority."'Got it'? You should be crying your eyes out right now!"
Chapter 13: First Battle with AceDadan failed to establish her authority, and compared to her, Luffy and Satoru felt that Garpwas much more terrifying.After eating, Ace silently picked up his pipe and walked out of the house. Noticing this, Luffy put down his bowl and immediately grabbed Satoru to follow him.Satoru protested: "You guys are finished, but I'm not! Hey!"Meanwhile, Dadan, who had just viciously hoped that Luffy would get out, was now concerned about where they were going."Hey! Where are you going?!""We're just going out to take a look, we'll come back safely, Ms. Dadan." Satoru replied.Dadan took a bite of meat and muttered, "Kids are so annoying... 'Ms.'... but he's actually quite polite."..."Hey! My name is Luffy. I'm not mad about you spitting at us earlier, let's be friends!"Luffy recalled the lesson Shanks taught him about how some small things aren't worth getting angry over, and he waved to stop Ace, wanting to make friends with him.Satoru didn't think so. If someone spat in his face, he'd have to beat them up; of course, that required having the strength to do so.Ace turned around, gritting his teeth as he stared at Satoru and Luffy. He hated these two uninvited guests who had suddenly appeared. He kicked a large tree, thicker than Luffy was tall, snapping it off and sending it rolling down.How the hell is this something a ten-year-old kid can do?!Seeing it with his own eyes, Satoru was truly shocked. If he had kicked it, his own foot would have been the one to break.Seeing the tree rushing toward them, Satoru swung his arm, and the bracelet on his wrist instantly transformed into a long whip, wrapping around a branch.With his other hand, he grabbed Luffy's waist, and the two swung up, narrowly dodging the giant tree.This was the "forest survival swinging" that Satoruhad learned from the "musician" of the Red Hair Pirates, Monster, that monkey.Satoru carried Luffy to safety, dodging the rolling tree. Ace watched this scene, and the fact that Satoru had suddenly produced a long whip piqued his interest.Walking down from the hillside, he asked, "How did you do that?"Little Ace asked, staring at Satoru with a cold expression. For some reason, Satoru couldn't help but want to laugh."Just a minor, amateur trick."Ace's eyelid twitched. Since Satoru wouldn't say, then it was simple: just have a fight! He silently took the pipe from his back."You don't have to tell me, let's just fight!"Thinking of how Ace had kicked the tree in half earlier, Satoru thought to himself, 'Like hell I'm going to fight you! Forget it.'"That's probably not a good idea."Ace didn't care; he swung the pipe right at him.Luffy immediately stepped in front of Satoru, "You're not allowed to bully Satoru!"Then... he was swatted to the side. Fortunately, blunt force attacks didn't have much effect on Luffy.Satoru:...Since he was already here, if Satoru didn't use his ability, given his own physical constitution, his arm would definitely break from a hit like that.He just hadn't expected his first battle to be against Ace.His eyes snapped open. Satoru first replicated Ace's physique, and his hands weren't idle either; the bracelet instantly transformed into a long staff.He had learned this from Hongo, the ship's doctor of the Red Hair Pirates; he was a weapons expert who excelled at staff fighting.A bit of trivia: the staff techniques used by another officer, Lime Jones, were also taught by Hongo."Clang!"Satoru held the staff with one hand, blocking Ace's pipe. The sound of clashing steel rang through the forest."You really aren't simple. Your 'magic,' your strength—it's all pretty good. Much better than that brat."Ace said with a smile. He was happy to have met a second person who could fight him.Satoru smiled back, but in his heart, he was cursing. His arm was already numb from that hit.Replicating through sight only allowed him to copy forty to fifty percent of his opponent's strength. Trying to fight Ace with only forty percent of Ace's own strength—wasn't that a guaranteed loss?But Satoru didn't want to waste his replication quota for members of the Red Hair Pirates on Ace, who would eventually become one of his own people. This was his trump card for when he set out to sea!Therefore, Satoru took the opportunity to grab Ace's hand. Ace immediately pulled back, "What's the meaning of this?"Replication through physical touch allowed him to copy sixty percent of his opponent's strength.Satoru didn't answer and re-replicated sixty percent of Ace's physique to fight him.Attack the lower body!Satoru took the initiative, launching a low sweep. Ace reacted quickly and jumped up, gripping his pipe with both hands and smashing it down. The force was such that the sound of it cutting through the air was very clear; if that hit landed, Satoru's skull would be cracked open.Not wanting to compete with his raw strength, Satoru stepped back to dodge. The pipe smashed into the ground with a 'bang,' causing the ground to crack inch by inch.Satoru swallowed hard. How much grudge or hatred is there, really?!He didn't have time to dwell on it, though; Ace was attacking again!...In the forest, the sound of steel clashing rang out continuously.Satoru's strength was inferior to Ace's, but Ace's technique was inferior to Satoru's.The two were evenly matched for a while. Luffy, standing on the side, was also very well-behaved; he didn't step in to help, but instead kept cheering for Satoru.But as time passed, Satoru's stamina drained quickly, and he gradually found himself at a disadvantage. Ace sensed this and became excited; victory was right before his eyes.But suddenly, he wasn't excited anymore.
Chapter 14: Gray TerminalAs the fight with Ace continued, Satoru's stamina gradually depleted, putting him at a disadvantage. Realizing he couldn't keep this up, he used a burst of strength to retreat, and the long staff in his hand transformed into a flintlock pistol.Staring down the barrel of the gun, Ace froze in his tracks.Satoru expressed that, sir, times have changed.He didn't really want to point a gun at Ace, but if things continued this way, he was bound to take a hit from Ace's pipe sooner or later and spend another month recovering."Huff, huff, huff!"Having stabilized Ace, Satoru panted for breath and put the flintlock away."You win, Ace. Let's stop fighting."Satoru was truly exhausted. He was tired; let the world just end already."Huff... That bracelet?"Ace was also tired, though not as much as Satoru. At the same time, he was a genius with sharp eyes; after three transformations, he realized Satoru had multiple weapons because of the bracelet on his wrist."Yes.""...""Regardless of who won or lost today, let's call it a draw.""Although your stamina is a bit lacking, it's decent enough... for a girl."Ace hoisted the water pipe back onto his shoulder and replied coolly.Satoru's head was suddenly filled with question marks???Who? Who's a girl??In his own world, Satoru was an orphan who had just started working after leaving the orphanage upon reaching adulthood. To save money, he generally didn't cut his hair—cutting it once every two years and letting it grow for two years.After transmigrating into a child's body, his hair remained the same. He currently wore it in a ponytail, which was why Ace had mistaken him for a girl."I'm a boy."Satoru replied."...""Eh!!!"Once it registered, Ace let out a cry of surprise."Then your stamina is way too pathetic!"Ace complained. Satoru thought to himself, 'Well, you're certainly brave for saying that! How can an ordinary kid compare to you?!'"But this strength is enough!""I acknowledge you.""If you want to follow, then follow."Ace turned around to continue on his way to meet Sabo.Satoru glanced at Luffy and immediately followed.Luffy followed right away as well.But the beasts on the road were fierce and the terrain was complex; Luffy soon couldn't keep up.Watching his good friend be led away by someone else, little Luffy felt a bit dejected."Aaaah!""Satoru, I'll definitely catch up to you guys and bring you back!"Hearing Luffy's shout from behind, Satoru broke into a cold sweat. The way he said it made Satoru sound like a woman who ran off with a rich man because her current boyfriend was poor."You go ahead first, Ace.""Hmm? Waiting for that kid? If he doesn't even have the ability to cross the forest on his own, what right does he have to follow me to the Gray Terminal?"Ace said disdainfully, not thinking anything of the weakling Luffy."Ace, how long did it take you to cross the forest the first time?"Satoru put on a smile; it's always better to be polite."One month."Ace said calmly."Alright then, how about we make a bet?""Let's bet on whether Luffy can also cross the forest within a month.""If I lose, I'll give you this bracelet.""If you lose, you just have to try and accept Luffy.""How about it? Do you dare to bet?"Satoru held the bracelet in front of Ace's eyes, proposing the wager.So what if the bracelet couldn't be removed? Acedidn't know that.Ace glanced at the bracelet."What's there to be afraid of!""It's a bet!""I hope you won't regret losing such a good weapon."Satoru withdrew his hand and smiled. "Don't underestimate Luffy; he's a very resilient person.""Then we'll meet in one month at the Gray Terminal!"Ace was confident, and so was Satoru. He turned back toward Luffy, preparing to cross the forest with him. Of course, he wouldn't interfere to break the bet... "Luffy!"Just as Luffy was feeling disoriented, Satorureturned.Luffy looked up and saw him, immediately breaking into a smile."Ah! Satoru, I'm lost.""I am too, Luffy.""Ace just left a message: if we can cross the forest within a month, he'll try to be friends with us.""We have to work hard!"Satoru knew Luffy's character; if you gave him a goal, he would work very hard toward it—except for becoming a Marine."Really! Then we have to work hard!""Let's go! We can't let Ace look down on us!"Luffy was suddenly full of energy and took the lead. Satoru followed behind with a smile; kids will be kids.However, while the start was safe and they were confident, the obstacles that followed one after another slowly wore down their resolve.Broken suspension bridges.Winding, confusing paths.Massive wild beasts.Satoru copied Luffy's physical stats the whole way; otherwise, he surely would have perished halfway... In this way, the sun and moon continued their cycle.When Luffy and Satoru failed, they would return to the Dadan Family, then follow Ace back out early the next morning.It was like this every day.Unlocking new parts of the map day by day, they returned with new injuries every evening.Finally, on the last day of the one-month bet, Luffyand Satoru perfectly kept up with Ace and crossed the forest.They arrived at the dark side of the Goa Kingdom—a nation praised as the most beautiful in the East Blueyet hiding this place built from piles of trash: the Gray Terminal!
Chapter 15: Where is Satoru?Unwanted things gather here, whether objects or people... Of course, this is a lawless zone with no doctors, where crime and disease run rampant.A foul stench constantly permeates this place. Mountains of trash spontaneously combust under the sun, causing smoke to linger all year round. This is the Terminal Gray!..."Ew! It stinks! So much trash! What is this place?"After arriving, the pervasive stench made even Luffyunable to resist complaining."Ace said this place is called the Terminal Gray."Satoru explained, tightly covering his nose. Compared to the stench here, what are stinky tofu or herring cans? This was truly an eye-opener; it was his first time seeing such a massive garbage dump.Suddenly, Luffy noticed Ace's figure ahead and immediately rushed out, wanting to prove himself to Ace.Satoru immediately followed, "Luffy, wait for me!"However, shortly after Satoru ran off, his foot suddenly sank, and he fell into a hole beneath the garbage."Holy crap! What the hell!!"But Luffy didn't hear him. He was desperate to prove himself to Ace... Up in a large tree, Ace and Sabo were counting the money they had gathered over the years—funds they would use to buy a pirate ship when they became pirates."A pirate ship?""You guys want to be pirates too! Hahaha."Hearing that Ace had the same dream as him, Luffyshouted happily, but this startled Ace and Sabo, who immediately jumped down from the tree."Tch, it's just our last day, and you guys followed us. What a pity."Ace looked at Luffy and Satoru? Satoru? he said with a hint of disappointment."So these are the Luffy and Satoru you mentioned."Sabo also chimed in."Of course! Satoru and I are really strong. Can we be friends now? Your name is Sabo? You're Ace's friend, so can we be friends too?"Luffy said, grinning with a mouthful of white teeth.Sabo didn't answer but instead pulled Luffy and turned around."What should we do, Ace? They found out our secret.""Hmm... I'm really sorry, but we have no choice but to silence them!""I agree," Sabo replied."Then you handle Satoru, and I'll handle Luffy!"Ace finished dividing the tasks, and the two immediately turned back around.Ace grabbed Luffy's neck, and Sabo grabbed... Huh? Where is he?"Hey, Ace, where is the one named Satoru?"Ace realized, "Oh yeah, where is Satoru?""That's right! Where is Satoru!"Luffy also realized, "How did Satoru disappear!"Satoru:...I damn well thank you for remembering me."Satoru is gone!!!"Luffy finally panicked now; Satoru had separated from them.Before they could look for Satoru, the punk whose money Ace stole arrived with Porchemy, a member of the Bluejam Pirates. That money was actually protection money for the Bluejam Pirates.Ace and Sabo immediately darted into the bushes to hide, but they forgot one person: Luffy."Let go of me!""Ace, Satoru, help me!"Luffy was held up by Porchemy and sent out a distress signal.Ace and Sabo immediately ducked their heads to avoid detection.When Porchemy heard the name Ace, wasn't that the name of the brat who stole his money?"Brat, you know Ace? Where is he!"Realizing he couldn't betray his friends, Luffyimmediately pursed his lips, indicating he didn't know."I don't know~(○ﾟεﾟ○)"But his acting was terrible.Seeing that he wouldn't speak, Porchemy took him away, confident he would make him talk.Sabo and Ace saw the people leave and jumped out. Their primary concern was not Luffy, but the treasure."Quickly move the treasure! Hurry!""It's only a matter of time before that kid Luffy talks."They didn't believe that someone as young as Luffycould withstand Porchemy's interrogation... On the other side, Satoru laboriously climbed out of the garbage hole, his entire body reeking."Damn it, what rotten luck.""Where am I supposed to find Luffy and the others now!"Looking at the endless piles of garbage, Satoru felt lost."The Terminal Gray? Luffy, Ace, and Sabo's first meeting! Damn it! The Porchemy Incident!"Back when Ace died during the Marineford War in the anime, the flashback arc detailing Luffy's three brothers began. Because of Ace's death, Satoruremembered it clearly.Luffy was captured and interrogated by Porchemy, an executive of that pirate crew. Because he refused to reveal the location of Ace and Sabo, he was finally accepted by them, and the three brothers officially formed their bond."But where do I look?"Satoru was worried but didn't know where to start searching.Just then, a vagrant from the Terminal Gray walked over, and Satoru mustered his courage and asked."Excuse me, do you know where Ace and Sabo are?"The vagrant glanced at Satoru. "What little brat, beat it!"Satoru had no time to waste. Since he wouldn't take the polite offer, then damn it, he wouldn't get a choice!The bracelet instantly transformed into a Flintlock Pistol. Holding the gun, Satoru's eyes turned cold as he asked."I'm asking one more time.""Do you damn well know where Ace and Saboare?!"With the muzzle pointed at him, the vagrant's legs went weak, and he tremblingly pointed in a direction.Satoru immediately put away the gun and ran toward that direction.
Chapter 16: Bullets Have No EyesAfter receiving friendly directions from the tramp—there are indeed more good people in the world—Satoru immediately rushed towards Ace and Sabo.Upon arrival, however, he couldn't find anyone. Aceand Sabo had already moved their treasure.But practicing his marksmanship had greatly improved Satoru's eyesight, and he noticed the faint figures of Ace and Sabo on a hillside not far away.Satoru immediately rushed over again, nearly exhausted. He saw Ace and Sabo burying their treasures there. He decided to replicate their physiques first to catch his breath."Ace!""Where's Luffy?!"After replicating, Satoru shouted, startling Ace and Sabo again."Satoru!""Luffy has been captured by Porchemi, a member of the Lan-chan Pirate Group!""Where?! I'm asking you! In what direction?!"Satoru roared. Any slower now, and Luffy would suffer more punches."You! That's a real pirate! He kills without batting an eye!!"Sabo couldn't help but interject, reminding Satoruthat going there would mean fighting a real pirate, not just brawling with thugs."I'm asking you for directions!""Why do you think Luffy would definitely betray you?!""I just went to your original treasure spot, and there was no one there! Luffy still hasn't betrayed you!"Satoru was furious. While he might not believe Luffy could withstand torture if he put himself in their shoes, now was not the time for empathy.Satoru's words struck Ace and Sabo like a bolt from the blue. They couldn't believe Luffy had endured the torture without betraying them. Just moments ago, they had even considered silencing him... "Hurry up and tell me! You stinky brat!"Porchemi, wearing spiked gloves, continuously punched Luffy, who had almost become a bloodied mess.But he still didn't speak.When Satoru arrived and saw Luffy in such a state, sorrow and rage surged through him."Stop it!!!"Sabo and Ace charged forward, leading the way with their pipes.Porchemi was happy to see Ace and the others appear voluntarily, as it meant he wouldn't be punished by his Captain."You came to me willingly, so I don't have to look for you! Give back the money quickly!"Porchemi grabbed Ace's head. His tall stature allowed him to grasp Ace's head with one hand. Sabo immediately struck Porchemi's head from behind with a pipe, rescuing Ace.Satoru seized the opportunity to go around and rescue Luffy."Satoru!!! It hurts so much!!!"Luffy said, tears streaming down his face.Satoru nodded sympathetically, "I know, I'm sorry I'm late! But next time, remember to check if your comrades are behind you!"As Satoru spoke, he also grew angry. If only Luffyhad pulled him out of the junkyard, none of this would have happened.Bringing Luffy to the retreat path, Satoru watched Porchemi fighting Ace and Sabo. He was a genuine pirate, several times larger than the two boys. After a round of fighting, Ace and Sabo were already injured, but Porchemi also had wounds."Whoosh!"Satoru exhaled, raised his arm, and a flintlock pistol appeared, aimed at Porchemi's head."…"Ultimately, Satoru did not shoot Porchemi in the head. He wouldn't kill him, and Porchemi's Captainwouldn't let him off either. He quickly adjusted his aim."Bang!"The bullet accurately hit Porchemi's right arm."Ugh!"This shot instantly silenced the scene. Porchemi, Ace, and Sabo all looked at Satoru.Satoru's eyes were cold, remembering Luffy's appearance, and he shot Porchemi in the left foot again."Ah!!"This time, Porchemi finally couldn't help but scream."Come back!"Satoru shouted loudly, bringing Ace and Sabo back to their senses. Sabo and Ace were still children; they had seen guns before, but it was their first time seeing someone younger than them fire one."Don't chase, or the bullets will have no eyes!"Satoru warned Porchemi's subordinates, then carried Luffy, and retreated with Ace and Sabo... The four fled to the area below Ace and Sabo's new treasure hiding spot.Satoru bandaged Ace and Sabo, focusing on Luffy, who was the most severely injured.Of course, he learned his medical skills from Hongo.Ace and Sabo watched Satoru's back, suddenly very curious as to why Satoru knew so many things."Satoru, who... exactly are you?""You're so skilled at bandaging.""You have such a magical weapon.""You can use a gun, and you're very accurate!"Ace couldn't help but ask.Satoru paused his hand movements, slowly turned to look at the two, and sighed."Alas!""Actually, I was trained by an assassin organization.""We select children with strength and talent to join, and we train them for free to enhance their abilities."Satoru emphasized the word "free," then continued with a smile."You two have great talent. You can fight pirates at such a young age. How about it, want to join?"Ace and Sabo were stunned. Who wouldn't want a chance to improve their strength for free?!"Really?!"Satoru's smile instantly vanished."Fake.""There's no such thing as a free lunch in this world.""…"
Chapter 17: Enjoy When You Can"Waaah, waah, wuuu."While Satoru helped bandage Luffy, Luffy kept weeping.Satoru didn't mind. If it were him with these injuries, he wouldn't just be crying; he'd likely be screaming "earth-shatteringly" loud.But Ace was very annoyed. He had been played by Satoru, and now, listening to Luffy's crying, he grew more and more impatient."Stop crying!"Luffy immediately pursed his lips and stopped crying, looking rather comical.Satoru finished by tying a bow on Luffy's arm, and the bandaging was done.Luffy sat up and bowed to the three of them, "Thank you for saving me. Thank you, Satoru, Ace, Sabo."Seeing Luffy like this, Ace became even angrier. He knew Luffy had been captured because of him, although Luffy had insisted on following. He was also angry at Luffy for not speaking up and taking such a beating.Was this concern or blame?It was just him being a tsundere."Tell me the truth, why didn't you say anything! Those are cold-blooded pirates.""But if I had said it, we couldn't be friends."Luffy replied, tears streaming down his face uncontrollably."You! Better to not be friends than to be dead! Why do you want to be friends with me so much!"Ace roared back; he didn't understand."Because Satoru and I have only you to rely on!""We hate the mountain bandits, and we can't go back to Foosha Village!""You're the only one we can turn to, right!"Luffy roared back!These two brothers.Satoru placed his hand on Luffy's head. Just like that, I'm involved? I didn't ask to rely on this rude little brat... forget it, have it your way, Luffy.Ace was stunned. Memories flashed through his mind of people's thoughts on the "descendant of the Pirate King"—nothing but malicious words.Being so valued for the first time, he felt… confused. He had never experienced this feeling before; perhaps he was a little bit happy.But at the same time, he was a tsundere."Geez, but I still hate weak little brats like you!"Hearing this, Luffy bared his teeth and started arguing with him.Satoru shook his head, ignored them, and looked at Sabo."Having offended 'real' pirates, I'm afraid you can't stay on this Trash Mountain anymore.""Come to the Dadan Family with us?""I suggest you'd better take your treasure and bury it in the forest. There are always people on this Trash Mountain; it would be funny if someone dug it up one day."Satoru couldn't tell Sabo directly that the Terminal would later be burned down, and their treasure would be reduced to ashes.At the same time, he thought that the burning of the Terminal was inevitable. He couldn't stop the arrival of the Celestial Dragons, nor could he stop those sycophantic nobles from burning down the Terminal to curry favor with the Celestial Dragons.The cancer of this world wasn't just those pirates who killed the innocent and pillaged; the biggest one was the Celestial Dragons, those so-called nobles who didn't treat people as humans."Why? We've hidden it for so many years without any issues," Sabo asked."After this incident, the Bluejam Pirates will definitely conduct a carpet search. It's better to be careful," Satoru replied."Hmm, what Satoru said makes sense."Ace, holding Luffy's face with one hand, nodded, agreeing with Satoru's suggestion."Alright, let's start moving it now, then leave. I'm afraid the Bluejam Pirates might catch up if we're too slow."Sabo also agreed, walked up the hill, and began to move the treasure....Back at the Dadan Family, Dadan nearly fainted on the spot when she saw another brat."Ace! Satoru! Luffy!""What's with your appearance?""And who is this little brat!"Sabo introduced himself. Satoru had no time to deal with them; he walked straight into the house and headed to the bathroom. He felt like he had been fished out of a septic tank; if he didn't wash up soon, the smell would sink in."Mmm~ So comfortable~"After cleaning up a bit, Satoru lay directly in the bathtub, feeling his body and mind being cleansed."The burning of the Terminal later on is unstoppable.""At least I can do something about Sabo. I don't know if stopping him and making him lose the chance to join the Revolutionaries is good… or bad?""Sigh, I'm exhausted. If it doesn't work, screw it, I'll just use all the trump cards of the replicated Red Hair Pirates! I'll worry about the future later!"Putting his thoughts behind him, one can't always be thinking and working; it'll kill you. When it's time to rest, rest; when it's time to enjoy, enjoy.But just as Satoru closed his eyes, the sound of thumping footsteps approached. Satoru opened his eyes to see three stark-naked little boys running over.They got into position and jumped, looking like they were about to land in the bathtub.Satoru immediately stood up, his bracelet transformed into a long staff, and with one swing, he sent all three of them flying back!"You three!""If you want to soak in the tub, wash yourselves clean first!""And Luffy, you're injured like this and still touching water? Do you have a death wish?! Just grab a towel and wipe yourself off.""Yes."The three of them immediately hung their heads like "Apologizing Bepo."Sabo and Ace went to wash off over there.Satoru stood up, tucked his bathrobe around his waist, and took a towel to help wipe Luffy's back."Thank you, Satoru.""We are comrades, aren't we?""Hahaha, that's right, we are comrades."Luffy and Satoru chatted warmly.Suddenly, a splash hit Satoru from behind, drenching him.The atmosphere was ruined."Get further away, don't get caught in the crossfire, Luffy.""?"Luffy looked confused.Satoru turned around, his bracelet transforming into a water-gun Gatling."Namu Gatling Bodhisattva, three thousand six hundred revolutions per breath!""Accept the cleansing of the Buddha's light! Fools!"That day, Dadan could hear it clearly from the main hall outside; she thought a war had broken out in the bathroom.
Chapter 18: Luffy's DreamThe water flowed eastward, leaves fell in succession, and the fleeting time passed quietly and slowly.Ace, Sabo, Satoru, and Luffy lived together with the Dadan Family. During these days, they fought against wild beasts in the forest, delinquent youths in the town, villains in the Gray Terminal, and pirates in the bay.Day after day, their reputation reached even the ears of the nobles in the center of High Town.Life was fulfilling and exciting, but life would not be calm forever; the trials that fate was destined to bring would always arrive....That day, Ace, Sabo, and Luffy went to town.Satoru did not go. During their "money-saving" activities, Satoru went sometimes and sometimes didn't; although it was exciting, it was also tiring.He originally wanted to take a good nap, but because of the newspaper in Dadan's hand, Satorucouldn't fall asleep at all."Dogra, Magra, what kind of place is 'Goa'?" Dadanasked, biting on a cigarette and holding the newspaper.Dogra with the fish-eyes explained, including that Mt. Colubo, the Gray Terminal, and Foosha Villagewere all territories of the Goa Kingdom, but the King did not care about these dirty places outside the walls; his kingdom was supposed to be spotless.Satoru turned over, thinking to himself that Dadandidn't even know where she was living.But Dadan's next sentence made Satoru jump up immediately."This country is going to have guests, it seems to be a big shot.""Front page of the newspaper, making such a fuss, are they that impressive?""The people called 'Celestial Dragons'?""What?!"Satoru jumped up and shouted."Yikes!""You brat, you scared me! Did you suddenly lose your mind?" Dadan complained, having been startled.Satoru ignored her, flashed over quickly, and snatched the newspaper from Dadan's hand."Descendants of the Creators! The World Nobles—Celestial Dragons—will inspect the most beautiful country in the East Blue, the Goa Kingdom, in one month."The largest section of the newspaper reported this matter, especially the words "Descendants of the Creators," which were big enough for even a blind person to see."W-what is it? Why are you so surprised? Is it a serious matter?" Dadan knew Satoru was a polite child; this was the first time he had snatched a newspaper like this. Was it that serious?"It is very serious!""But it has nothing to do with us on Mt. Colubo." Satoru replied."Then that's fine! It doesn't matter if the outside world collapses." Dadan said with a smile. If it had nothing to do with her Mt. Colubo, why should she care?Satoru didn't answer and immediately ran out to find Sabo. If he was dragged back by his father, then there would be trouble!...Running out of the Dadan Family's place, Satorurushed toward the safest path to the Gray Terminal.But halfway, under a tree by a cliff, he saw Ace, Sabo, and Luffy.Ace and Luffy had cornered Sabo against the tree trunk. Seeing this situation, Satoru thought it was too late; Sabo's noble father had already found him."Speak! Sabo!""What secrets could there be between us? Speak!" Ace and Luffy pressed forward step by step.Satoru walked over at this moment.Sabo looked as if he had seen a savior."Satoru.""Look at them, they keep interrogating me! What secrets could I possibly have!"Satoru looked at him—he was still pretending—and walked over to Ace and Luffy, joining them."Just say it, Sabo."Sabo was stunned. He thought Satoru had come to save him, but it turned out he had come to add fuel to the fire!"Tell me! Careful or I'll beat you up!"Seeing him like this, Ace, with his short temper, couldn't help it and directly grabbed Sabo by the neck. Luffy also helped, making Sabo confess honestly."Uh... ah... I'll say it! I'll say it."...Ace: "A noble's son!!!"Luffy: "Who?!"Sabo: "Me!""So what." Ace and Luffy replied while digging their noses with their little fingers, wondering why there was anything to hide about that."Wasn't it you guys who told me to say it!!?" Saboshouted with his mouth twisted in anger. Who was the one forcing him to death just now, and now they were acting so indifferent!!!But immediately, Sabo changed his expression, saying with a hint of loneliness."I lied to you guys, I'm sorry."Luffy never minded these things."Since you apologized, I'll forgive you."Ace walked to the edge of the cliff and stood side by side with Satoru, looking at the sea."But this matter really surprised me. Sabo, since you are a noble, why would you go to the Gray Terminal?""You have to know that those nobles look at people in the Gray Terminal just like the trash under their feet.""I am not like them!" Sabo retorted immediately."Although I have parents, I am still all alone.""What they like is just'someone' who can give them power and wealth.""If I cannot marry the king's daughter, in their eyes, I am worthless!""Nobles? Compared to that suffocating High Town, compared to a life with the next few decades already planned out, I actually think life is much better now.""Life with you guys."Satoru turned to look at Sabo. For someone like Sabo who loved freedom, was the status of a noble not a shackle?"So!""Ace! Luffy! Satoru!""We must set sail! Leave this country! Go and roam freely!""I want to see this vast world, and then record it in a book. Learning navigation knowledge is not painful at all for me.""Let us become stronger! Become real pirates!!"Sabo also ran to the coast and shouted his ideals to the sea.Ace smiled, "Hehe, you don't need to tell me that!""Even if the whole world doesn't acknowledge my existence, even if they all hate me! I will become a great pirate to make them look at me with respect!!"After Sabo, it was Ace's turn. Ace's wish was nothing more than to get rid of the title "Son of the Pirate King" and become a pirate who surpassed Roger!Following Ace and Sabo, Satoru looked at Luffy.In the anime, it didn't state what Luffy's dream was here.Satoru was very curious.It was something that would make Ace freeze and Sabo find it funny.It was something that would make Ace feel it was a pity he couldn't see it when he was dying.In Rayleigh's memory, Shanks said Luffy's dream was the same as Roger's.This dream made Whitebeard feel it was childish.What could it be?Luffy saw Ace and Sabo both shouting their ideals with great ambition, so he couldn't be left behind. He put his hands on his hips and shouted to the sea."Hehe, alright!""Then I..."
As for me! I'm going to become the Pirate King! I'll get the great treasure, buy the whole world, and throw a worldwide banquet!""I'll make sure there's meat for everyone in the world, and that everyone in the world gets along!""It would be best if there weren't any annoying mountain bandits around! Hmm... though people like Dadan and her crew are okay!""Huh?""Is that all you were going to say?""You really are interesting, Luffy!"Ace and Sabo were both shocked but also found it funny; they never imagined Luffy had such a grand ambition—buying the whole world!Throwing a world-class banquet? In the end, he's still just thinking about food!Satoru was also stunned.Luffy's dream... all he could say was, that's just like him! It fits his personality perfectly, especially at his current age—a simple seven-year-old kid."Hahahaha!!""I can only say, that's just like you, Luffy. Your wish is actually pretty great!"Satoru laughed happily; it was no wonder so many people liked Luffy."What about you? Satoru."Of the four, after Luffy, only Satoru remained.Seeing Satoru laughing so happily and supporting his dream, Luffy asked Satoru what his dream was."Me?"Stopping his laughter, Satoru felt lost inside. He didn't know why fate had thrown him into the world of pirates.An ideal? To go to the docks and get some fries?Luffy's dream sounded innocent and naive, but he wanted to make everyone in the world get along, ensure everyone had meat to eat, and grant everyone freedom.He didn't know about the existence of the Celestial Dragons yet.Looking at his ideal from another angle, it was a naked declaration of war against the World Government, against the Celestial Dragons, and against Imu!!Compared to the ideals of his father Dragon's Revolutionary Army, weren't they, in essence, the same?To summarize, one could say that Luffy's dream was to overthrow the World Government and build a new world. Although he himself didn't realize that implication.What an incredibly difficult task that would be."As for me, just like you, Sabo, I also want to see this vast world.""Plus... I want to help Luffy become the Pirate King! I also want to feast and drink at that world-class banquet. I'm already looking forward to it."Satoru didn't shout it out with grand ambition like they did, but stated it plainly.He thought of his past life, when his stomach was "drumming" from hunger every single day. Letting everyone in the world have meat to eat...Just from that one statement, Satoru was certain that he would set sail with Luffy in the future.Four teenagers—no, they couldn't even be called teenagers yet, just four little brats—declared their ideals to the ocean from the edge of the cliff.Whether these four would stir up giant waves on the ocean in the future, that is a story for another time."Hey!"Satoru had said he wanted to set sail on Luffy's ship in the future. Ace and Sabo were very disappointed and started trying to poach him."Luffy is so weak! You should come on my ship instead! Satoru!""I want to see the world just like you, Satoru, so come on my ship instead!"Luffy immediately blocked them in front of Satoru."No way! You can't change your mind once you've promised!""I'm weak now, but I'll definitely become strong in the future, the strongest!""I'll definitely achieve my dream!!!"Ace and Sabo naturally disagreed; who wouldn't want a (chef) comrade!Seeing the three of them fighting over him, Satorufelt a bit flattered."Hahaha, just consider it as older brothers letting their younger brother have his way, Ace, Sabo.""Also, don't forget, I'm the same age as Luffy; you guys will definitely set sail first.""My constitution isn't great, and Luffy is young, so it's best if we look after each other.""You two are the older brothers, right? Big Brother Ace, Big Brother Sabo."Hearing the words "older brother," Ace and Sabostopped arguing. They even puffed out their chests; older brothers should act like older brothers."That's true, haha," Sabo replied.When Ace heard the word "older brother," he seemed to remember something, ran behind a tree, and brought out four bowls and a bottle of sake."Do you know? It's a legendary pirate ritual—the Sworn Sake.""Drink this cup of sake, and we can become brothers!" Ace said as he poured the sake into the bowls."Brothers~ Really?" Obviously, Luffy was very interested in and happy about becoming brothers."Maybe when we become pirates, we won't be comrades on the same ship! But between us, we'll have a 'brotherly' bond!""No matter where we are or what we're doing! This bond can never be broken!"Ace continued, while Satoru looked at the four bowls of sake.Brothers? Although he was just a transmigrator, since coming to this world, the "him" from that other world was already dead. He was a loner anyway, and that had become his "past life."In his past life, he had always been all alone. Now! He had three brothers."That's not bad at all," Satoru whispered with a smile, then followed the other three and picked up his sake bowl."Then!" "From today on, we are brothers!!!"The four of them raised their bowls, toasted, and drank it all in one gulp.Satoru thought to himself that in the past there was the Oath of the Peach Garden by Liu, Guan, and Zhang, and now there were the four of them... the Oath of the Cliffside!
Chapter 20: Burning the Gray TerminalAfter drinking the sake of brotherhood, the relationship between the four of them—Ace, Sabo, Satoru, and Luffy—became even closer.Time continued to pass, as always, never stopping.The four of them spent day after day together.They built a small wooden cabin of their own in the trees.Water fights in the bath.Activities like snatching meat from Dadan and her crew.Having banquets at Makino's bar, and getting new clothes made by Makino for free.Surviving in the forest, facing challenges from wild beasts.The biggest 'beast' of them all was Garp, who came to visit from time to time.That day, the four of them returned to Dadan's place with bumps all over their heads; one might have mistaken them for cosplaying as the Calabash Brothers.Days turned into weeks, and Satoru was very happy—happier than he had ever been.But it also meant that the day the Celestial Dragonswould arrive was getting closer by the day....Finally, one day, fate grew tired of seeing them live such happy lives and stepped in to shatter this peace.Following Satoru's advice, Sabo, Ace, and Luffyhadn't gone into town to'save money' during this period.But Mt. Colubo was still the territory of the King of Goa, and it was right there—they couldn't escape it.Even if you don't go out, others will come looking for you.Sabo's noble father, along with the members of the Bluejam Pirates, intercepted Ace, Luffy, and Sabo on the mountain path while they were gathering herbs for Satoru.Because, in a very cliché turn of events...Satoru happened to come down with a high fever that day.It was precisely because the three of them were gathering herbs for Satoru that they were cornered by his father.Satoru couldn't help but sigh, 'Fate! Can you be any more cliché?'...'Getting a fever so suddenly! Kids are such a hassle.'Dadan complained, but even as she complained, she continued to change the towel on Satoru's forehead.'Sorry... Dadan.''Sorry for the trouble.'Satoru's lips were pale, his head felt heavy as lead, and he felt completely dazed.'Stop talking, White Kid, just get some sleep. Don't go dying in my house.''Ace and the others went to gather herbs for you. If they can't find any, they'll just go to town and steal some.''Just sleep for a while, they'll probably be back when you wake up.'Dadan puffed on a cigarette; she was caring for Satoru, just with a sharp tongue.Satoru glanced at the clock on the wall: 6:10 PM.He nodded and closed his eyes. In three days, the Celestial Dragons would arrive, and he had to recover from his illness before then....A close-up shot: a sprite representing time pushed the clock's hands, spinning them rapidly.Satoru slowly opened his eyes, feeling as though a century had passed.He looked at the clock: 6:05 PM.'? Did time go backward?'Obviously impossible; Satoru had been asleep for a day.And although Dadan had a sharp tongue, she loved Satoru and the others; she was sitting cross-legged next to Satoru, dozing off.Satoru looked around and saw only the other mountain bandits, but couldn't spot Luffy and the others. He realized something was wrong.'Damn it, it can't be that much of a coincidence, right!'Satoru immediately reached out to copy Dadan's constitution. As a mountain bandit, Dadan's constitution was quite decent.Copying someone's constitution didn't mean that wounds and illnesses would immediately vanish.It meant bearing the injury or illness with that person's constitution.Therefore, Satoru was now running a high fever with 60% of Dadan's constitution. Although his head still felt heavy, it was much better than with his own constitution.'White Kid! What are you doing!!!'Dadan was woken up by the noise Satoru made. She saw that Satoru, who was still feverish, had thrown on his coat and run outside.Satoru stopped, having realized something. He was too panicked; he couldn't panic. There was still some time before nightfall.'Dadan, quickly get everyone to set out and save Ace and Luffy! They've been kidnapped by pirates! At the harbor in the Gray Terminal!'After saying this, Satoru didn't wait for Dadan and the others and ran out first.Leaving Dadan stunned in place, the cigarette in her mouth falling to the ground. After coming to her senses, she immediately shouted,'Quick! Quick! Grab your weapons! Follow the White Kid!!'...Just as Satoru had guessed, here, after Bluejamfinished using Luffy and Ace to move the oil and bombs to burn the Gray Terminal, he turned on them.'What!''Burning the Gray Terminal!''Then we have to hurry and tell the guys down at the Gray Terminal!'Ace and Luffy were both shocked when they heard the news from Bluejam.'Don't shout so loud, the people at the Gray Terminal will hear.''The King of Goa has already promised me that once the Gray Terminal is successfully burned, he will give me noble status.''To think I went through so much trouble just for a noble status, and that so-called brother of yours, Sabo, gave up his noble status to go to the Gray Terminal—how stupid!'Sabo and Bluejam were the classic case of people in the city wanting to get out, and people outside wanting to get in.'Since you know the plan, I can't let you leave.''One last question, where did you hide the treasure?'Bluejam, with a gloomy face, squatted down and asked Ace and Luffy; he wanted not only the noble status but also Ace and the others' treasure.But it was likely he wouldn't get anything in the end....Meanwhile, Satoru dragged his sick body to the Gray Terminal, but the sun had already set, and night had arrived.Looking at the homeless people lying on the ground who had lost interest in life, Satoru still couldn't bear it and said,'Tonight, the nobles in High Town are going to burn the Gray Terminal!''You need to run while you still can!'Satoru shouted, but no one present cared. If they left the Gray Terminal, where could they go?'It's hard to save those who are determined to die!'But Satoru didn't have time to persuade them anymore.From the wall of the border town, a cannonball was fired and landed on the outer edge of the Gray Terminal. With a bang, it exploded, and then the oil and bombs buried under the trash were ignited, causing a chain reaction of explosions.Flames erupted on the outer edge of the Gray Terminal, forming a wall of fire, burning inward.The dark night was instantly illuminated as bright as day by the fire, and the night sky turned red.The King of Goa didn't just want to burn the Gray Terminal; in his eyes, the lowly people on the Gray Terminal were also a stain on the Kingdom of Goa.Now, it was too late—people only realize the truth at the very end. The residents of the Gray Terminal could no longer lie still; they scrambled to get up and flee for their lives!