Chapter 436: You Better Not Be Nosy"Forest Mask!!!"Seeing Forest Mask Bai Yun return, walking on air with the box in his hand, Usopp felt like an angel had arrived, crying as he spread his arms to hug him.Forest Mask Bai Yun held his face back."No need to be so polite.""Ah!! Long time no see, Forest Mask, did you come down too?""Thanks for helping get the money back, right, Usopp."Luffy was just as simple-minded as ever, failing to recognize Satoru. If he had recognized him, that would have been truly shocking."Don't talk like it has nothing to do with you! That was a massive sum of 200 million Berries!"Usopp pulled on one of Luffy's cheeks, angry at why he was so calm.Nami pulled the other side. The two of them were stretching his face like taffy."Exactly! Why didn't you step in and grab it back immediately?!""B'cuz dat 'pigeon' said he'd get it..."Luffy was pulled so hard he couldn't speak clearly.Forest Mask Bai Yun defended Luffy."Alright, you guys didn't look after the money either.""Why blame Luffy? Reflect on yourselves!"Usopp and Nami immediately admitted their mistake, "You're right, we were wrong.""Wait, I still have the 100 million Berries! It's the fault of these two guys, Usopp and Luffy!"Nami argued. That was true; she was constantly carrying the box containing 100 million Berries.Forest Mask Bai Yun said, "Well, no matter what, it's best that the money wasn't stolen.""That's true, but who were those guys?"Nami was confused.Kalifa, standing nearby, immediately answered the question.The Franky Family works in'ship dismantling,' but their side job is bounty hunting. They often actively seek fights with pirates who come to Water Seven.But instead of capturing pirates for bounties, they defeat them and steal their ships and treasures.Then they dismantle the ships and sell the resulting lumber abroad. That is the work of the Franky Family."What despicable people! Stealing and dismantling other people's ships."Usopp, who cherished the going merry above all else, couldn't stand hearing talk of ship dismantling."But they seemed pretty weak."Luffy commented."Those were just subordinates. Their boss, Franky, is not to be underestimated."Forest Mask Bai Yun agreed. Before the fight even started, they got a mental attack... Lucci and Hattori returned to the shipyard channel.The pigeon spoke, representing Lucci."Mr. Iceberg, I brought him back.""You went to a lot of trouble, Lucci."Iceberg replied."This idiot caused you trouble! My apologies!!"The pigeon apologized to Luffy and the others.Luffy's jaw dropped in shock, "It talked again.""Coo coo, apologize to them quickly!! Pauly."Lucci tossed Pauly onto the shore."That pigeon just won't stop talking!!"Luffy was still amazed that the pigeon could talk."It must be the spokesman for the guy in the hat."Usopp explained.Pauly got up and grabbed Luffy, "You're the owner of this money, right.""I helped you retrieve it, so you should give me ten percent..."Before he could finish, Lucci delivered a hammer blow to the back of Pauly's head.Dong.Hmm, a good head."I apologize, customers. This idiot racked up a mountain of debt from gambling, so he gets greedy and forgets his manners whenever he sees money.""Why are you the one saying this!!"Luffy's focus was still on the pigeon.Pauly was annoyed, turning around to counterattack immediately."Moving Rope!""Supporting Person Knot!"Pauly threw out a rope, lassoing Lucci's arm."Punishment: One Rod Fishing"He then twisted his waist and used force, whipping Lucci out violently, like reeling in a fish.With a bang, Lucci was pulled over and slammed onto the ground, landing upside down."He's serious!"Seeing the commotion, Nami was surprised; it was a real fight.Iceberg was used to it."This is commonplace for them."And Usopp suddenly shouted in surprise."Woah!! Look, he blocked that move with just one hand."Although Lucci was upside down, he didn't stick his head into the ground in a headstand. Instead, he supported himself with a single hand, standing firmly."His fingers are even inserted into the ground! What kind of fingers are those! What kind of craftsmen are here in this place?"Usopp couldn't help but complain, but sometimes his words were prophetic.Forest Mask Bai Yun agreed. They truly weren't ordinary craftsmen; they were craftsmen from the 'poems of Wang Wei'... Lucci flipped himself upright.Pauly immediately stood ready."What, you want to fight? Bring it on.""Stop it, Pauly!"Iceberg couldn't watch anymore."Hehe, I apologize for disturbing everyone."The pigeon spoke again."My name is Rob... no, I am the pigeon Hattori. This fellow is Rob Lucci, and he works here. Please be gentle with us.""Huh, did you think you were human?"Nami caught the pigeon's initial slip-up and finally realized what was happening."I see! It's Ventriloquism!!"Luffy: "Really? So you were the one chattering away just now."Usopp: "That's amazing, I didn't notice at all."Pauly: "Exactly! This guy rarely talks to anyone; he's a weirdo! Hahahaha."Lucci: "Shut up, it doesn't matter either way!! Coo coo!!"With a stubborn "Coo coo," Lucci kept up the act.Only Satoru knew.Lucci was just pretending. His personality wouldn't allow him to act, nor would it allow him to say things like'sorry' or 'we disturbed you.' But he had to perform his undercover mission, so he could only speak through the pigeon's mouth, making it technically not his own words.It was clear that once the mission was over and his identity was irrelevant, he would speak directly to mock Pauly... "Hahaha... Ah!!!"Pauly was laughing when he saw Nami, and his eyes nearly popped out—not out of lust, but out of extreme lack of lust."What kind of outfit is that!!""You shameless woman!!!""This is a place where men work!! How can you dress like that!! Are you kidding me!!"Lucci immediately restrained him.Kalifa also came over to try and calm him down, only to drag herself into the mess."Ugh!! And you, Kalifa!! You haven't reflected properly, wearing such indecent clothes again!!""Hahahaha, he really is a weirdo."Hearing Pauly's words, this was Luffy's assessment of him.As for Satoru's assessment of him.A feudal old man living in the past, a chauvinistic gambler.Satoru just wanted to say.You better not be nosy.
Chapter 437: Troubled TimesSitting on the going merry, the wind blew past, and Zoro watched Kaku's retreating back, remaining silent.Kaku's words just now reminded Zoro of what Satoru had said: 'We are enemies now.'This made Zoro feel that many things were about to happen.Troubled times indeed... At the shipyard, after retrieving the money and a bit of a commotion, Luffyand the others successfully entered the premises for a tour."Let me hold that for you, Usopp."Forest Mask Bai Yun said, extending his hands toward Usopp.Usopp trusted Satoru greatly, so he immediately handed him the two hundred million Berries."I'll leave it to you then. I feel safe with you holding it, Bai... Forest Mask, hahaha."Satoru returned a smile, thinking, 'I'm afraid I'm going to disappoint you.'The group walked around the factory, and the workers there visibly showed respect and deference to Iceburg.Kalifa explained.Originally, Water Seven had seven competing shipbuilding companies.It was Iceburg who conquered the craftsmen with his superb shipbuilding techniques, merging all seven companies in Water Seven five years ago to form the present Galley-La Company.What Kalifa didn't mention was that Iceburg also cooperated with the World Government, making Galley-La Company the World Government's exclusive shipbuilding company, which prevented World Government officials from moving against Iceburg."The craftsmen are all proud of his skill, so they won't bow to pirates or powerful forces. This is just that kind of place..."Kalifa's acting was excellent. Just as she was sighing, Luffy suddenly darted forward and patted Iceburg. "Hahaha, so you're such an amazing craftsman, old man! Come be a pirate with us."Pauly and Kalifa were so shocked their eyes nearly popped out."What nonsense are you talking about!!""Show some respect!!"Iceburg naturally refused Luffy's invitation. He was the city's Mayor, and although he was somewhat negligent in his duties normally, he wouldn't go so far as to become a pirate.However, the craftsmen in the factory were very capable, and if anyone wanted to leave with Luffy, he wouldn't stop them."I see. You're very reasonable, old man. But still, why can't you come?" Luffy replied with a smile."I can't. I'm the Mayor.""It doesn't matter.""..."Clearly, Luffy was persistent, so Iceburg changed the subject."Leaving that aside, is there a woman named Nico Robin on your ship?"Luffy nodded. "Yes, she's a very smart person..."Just as Iceburg was hesitating about whether to continue speaking, Kaku returned.Seeing this, Iceburg decided not to say anything more... Meanwhile, Usopp and Satoru left the main group to tour the factory together."Wow!!""That's a Demi-Carubaline Cannon! It's so long!! So magnificent!!"Usopp saw the shipwrights installing a cannon. As a Sniper, he recognized what kind of cannon it was. How to put it? Anyway, it was very famous."They're here!"A gust of wind struck from behind. Satoru thought to himself, but he made no move. Then, members of the Franky Family appeared from behind, covered their mouths, and dragged him and Usopp away."That one is made of bronze, right? It looks so... Mmmph!!!"...On the waterway, Sanji, riding on a Bull, looked worried.He had reunited with Chopper, but that was also the reason why he was so worried."I'm sorry, Sanji. I got too absorbed in reading my book."Chopper, in his Reindeer Form, was with Sanji on the boat, apologizing for getting separated from Robin."No, it's not your fault.""I thought the one who was with Sister Robin was you in your Human Form... but now it seems it wasn't...""Was it Satoru? Then why was he dressed up like that?""Also, there's no way they couldn't hear my voice.""They vanished in a place where there was water ahead. Thinking about it, it feels wrong.""I hope she's safe. I constantly feel uneasy."Chopper listened quietly. "Ah! Then let me treat you, Sanji."Sanji's tone involuntarily rose."I'm not sick!!""Because I remembered some things Aokiji said—things about Sister Robin. He said we would definitely regret it.""And Satoru. He said Satoru was mysterious.""And precisely those two people he mentioned are now gone.""In any case, let's head back to the going merry first. Maybe they've already returned."Chopper agreed."That's right. Satoru and Robin are both capable people. Maybe they've already gone back."Sanji looked up at the sky."Mm, I hope so."Just then, someone driving a Bull passed them."Is that reindeer for sale?"Sanji was already irritated, and he turned his head and glared."Get lost!!"Upon realizing it was a beautiful young lady, his expression instantly changed."Oh dear~ Beautiful lady, the reindeer isn't for sale. How about me instead~"Chopper: "Sanji! Sanji! Calm down!!"..."Of course. We rode it climbing mountains, traveling through the sky, and it almost got turned into a hedgehog.""It has been through so much, so we hope to repair it. Preferably make it a bit sturdier, add a few more cannons, and renovate the deck and cabins."After Kaku returned, he didn't speak too bluntly, instead praising the ship for having certainly gone through many adventures.Hearing this, Luffy was delighted and briefly recounted the going merry's adventures with them, emphasizing how important the going merry was.Kaku didn't interrupt him. After listening quietly, he stated expressionlessly:"With all due respect, even we are powerless.""Even if we managed to forcibly repair it, the chance of it sailing to the next island is... zero."Pauly, being a professional, asked, "Even the Keel is damaged?"Kaku nodded. "Yes, and it is extremely severe.""No, wait, do you mean the going merry can't be repaired!!!""Why!!""Aren't you the best Shipwrights?!!""We have plenty of money!"Luffy naturally couldn't abandon the going merry.But Kaku stated that it had nothing to do with money; no matter how much they spent, they couldn't fix it. The fact that it managed to sail to Water Seven was already a miracle.Pauly then explained that the Keel is the main component running from the bow to the stern, with all other parts centered around it—like a human heart. If the Keel is completely damaged, it means the ship's lifespan has ended.In Mock Town, Bellamy and his crew had sliced the Keel halfway through, nearly splitting the ship in two. If Cricket and his crew hadn't been skilled, the going merry might not have even made it to Sky Island.But after the subsequent events, like the Knock Up Stream, the going merry's damage was compounded. Just as Kaku said, its survival until now was a miracle.
Chapter 438: The going merry Is Our Ship!"Your ship has already become a pile of wood waiting to fall apart."Pauly's words were absolute; though heartless, they were the truth."...Then, you build a ship just like it! How about that?!""Please build another going merry."Luffy truly loved the going merry.But Lucci indicated through his pigeon that this was also impossible.Just as there are no two trees in the world that look exactly alike.A sailing ship's material is wood; the size, lines, and everything about the ship are tied to that wood.Even if you build a ship according to the blueprints, it is impossible to create one that is identical; at most, it would only be similar."But if I were to build a similar ship, you, having spent so much time with the previous one, would be the ones most capable of feeling the difference!!"Lucci was like a doctor delivering a death sentence for the going merry.Luffy fell silent."How can this be!! Can the going merry really not sail anymore?!"Nami still could not accept it."Yes, either wait for it to sink to the bottom of the sea, or dismantle it!!"Lucci answered resolutely."Hmm, there is nothing to be done; the ship has reached the end of its lifespan.""Don't you have a lot of money? Then just buy a new one.""Your ship is an old-fashioned sailing ship, right? To be honest, this kind of vessel will struggle to handle future voyages."As a boss, Iceburg's words were a bit heartless, but they were the best advice for Luffy.This was also Satoru's helplessness; he could not change the fate of the going merry. With ordinary wood and old-fashioned construction methods, the going merry could not adapt to sailing in the New World."No... I won't replace it!!""The going merry is our ship!!!""As long as we repair it, it can still sail; it absolutely can!!""It was sailing perfectly fine today, yet you suddenly say it can't sail anymore!! I don't believe it!!""How can anyone believe that!! You have no idea how sturdy that ship is! That's why you say such things!!"How could Luffy accept it? The going merry was like a comrade, and Luffy's dedication to his comradeswent without saying.Whether it was the World Government or the Four Emperors, it didn't matter; if they took his comrade, he would fight them to bring his comrade back.Seeing Luffy's agitation, Iceburg understood; a ship was like a comrade, so such agitation was normal. However, as a Captain, he could not afford to be this way; he had to make a decision. This wasn't a case of someone being captured, but rather a case of the ship dying of old age or illness—it was irreversible. Being stubborn wouldn't change anything."Are you only going to give up once it sinks to the bottom of the sea?""It's truly speechless. Can you even call yourself a ship's Captain?"Luffy remained silent with a cold expression; he didn't know what to say, his heart in turmoil."I've said what I needed to say; you should consider it yourselves.""If you want to buy a ship, come find me. Or, if you have 300 million Berries on hand, I can build a brand-new ship for you.""Kalifa.""Yes."Iceburg said the name, and Kalifa knew what to do.She brought out the price list ranging from new ships to second-hand vessels.Seeing that Luffy remained unmoved, Namihesitated for a moment before taking it.At that moment, Pepporone, one of the five great shipwrights, arrived and shouted to Iceburg that some World Government officials were looking for him.Iceburg did not want to see them and told Pepporone to send them away, but to everyone's surprise, those people walked in on their own.Pauly reminded Luffy and Nami to hide."Oh, it's you, Gochi. Hello. I'm not here today."Iceburg was blatantly lying; who tells someone they aren't there while standing right in front of them?"You are clearly standing right there!"Gochi retorted, implying, 'Do you take me for blind, deaf, or just plain stupid?'Iceburg thought to himself, 'I wish you were all three.'"Seriously, I came all this way on the sea train just to see you, so I hope you won't refuse.""However, I seem to smell the scent of pirates.""Hehehe, never mind. Anyway, let's talk."Gochi's remark about smelling pirates seemed profound, but in reality, he was just a small fry.Faced with Gochi's request to talk, Iceburg replied."I hate you. Get lost.""Are you a child!! Forget it, I won't hold it against you; you've always been this stubborn.""However, I have brought good news this time. At the very least, let's find a place where no one is around so we can talk properly."Gochi seemed determined not to leave unless they talked.Iceburg had no choice but to agree, and he left with Gochi.Meanwhile, Luffy, who was hiding behind the wood, felt that the weight of the suitcase in his hand was off and whispered."It's so light.""How is that possible?"Nami just assumed Luffy was joking."There's 100 million Berries in one box, how could it be light? Lu...ffy!!!!"Halfway through her sentence, she saw the empty box after Luffy opened it, and Nami was so shocked she turned into the "Scream.""What's the matter? Why are you being so loud? And miss, what kind of sitting posture is that!!"Pauly was sitting on the wood, and Nami's shout behind him gave him quite a start."200 million Berries are gone!!!""These two boxes aren't ours!!!!"Yes, the real boxes had already been taken away by the Franky Family, along with Forest Mask Bai Yun."Why are you looking at me! I didn't do it!!"Because of his "criminal record," Luffy and Namiimmediately looked at Pauly. Pauly quickly defended himself, "I've been right here under your noses the whole time, how could it be me!!""So noisy."Pepporone shouted toward Luffy and the others, then instantly calmed down and looked at Kaku."By the way, Kaku, aren't you with the Franky Family?"Kaku was puzzled. "What? What are you talking about? I haven't seen the Franky Family all day today."Pepporone was also confused. "That's strange. I definitely saw that long nose of yours.""And another person wearing a mask and a tattered cloak.""I thought it was you, Lucci, or Pauly."As soon as Pepporone said this, Nami and Luffyimmediately realized what happened."Wait a minute! What did you say? What did you just say?!""It's Usopp!!""And... Forest Mask!!""Are they with the Franky Family?"Pepporone nodded. "They must be together; I saw them being carried away by the Franky Family."Upon hearing this, Nami was so angry she turned into a shark face. "Doesn't that mean they were kidnapped?!!!"Turning around, Nami immediately told Luffy to go find them."Luffy, go find them!""Yes!!"Luffy then plunged deep into the shipyard, the kind of rush where he couldn't be called back, even though there was no way the Franky Family could be inside.
Chapter 439: I Am a Wish GenieUpon learning that Usopp and Satoru had been kidnapped by the Franky Family, Luffy was so agitated that he zipped away in a flash.Nami couldn't even call him back.There was no other choice; Nami didn't have time to go find Luffy.Having learned from Pauly that the Franky Family's dismantling factory was located on the coast northeast of the rocky bay where they were docked, Nami rode her arrowfish, Blue, and charged toward it. This was the power of money.Riding the arrowfish across the water, Nami looked quite dashing. As she passed the back-street shopping district, she saw a crowd gathered on land. A person was lying on the ground, blocked by the crowd. Nami could only see half of the person's head, but she instantly recognized it—it was Usopp.Nami immediately braked and went ashore."Usopp!!"When she reached the front of the crowd, she really did see Usopp lying on the ground. Fortunately, he didn't seem to have any injuries, and she didn't see any blood."Usopp!!"Nami immediately crouched down, pulled Usoppover, and patted his face, trying to reboot him.It was quite effective. Usopp slowly opened his eyes. "Na... Nami, Nami!!""It's bad! The money was stolen by those people called the Franky Family!!""And what about Satoru (Forest Mask—Usopp was so panicked he forgot he was supposed to call him Forest Mask), where is Satoru?""I was about to ask you the same thing. Where is Satoru, and why are you lying here?" Namicountered.Usopp then told Nami what had just happened."Mmph! Mmph! Mmph!!""Ah!!""What are you doing!! Let us down!!"With his mouth covered, Usopp bit the person holding him."You know why! Robbery!!" Zambai replied."If you're robbing us, why are you carrying us away? Aren't you tired?" Satoru's words jolted them awake."That's right!! Throw them both down here!!"At the command of the squad leader Zambai, the others immediately complied and dropped Usoppand Forest Mask Bai Yun.Usopp landed face-first, solid and true.Forest Mask Bai Yun performed a spin in the air and landed steadily on his feet.Zambai could tell that Forest Mask Bai Yun had some decent skills, but it seemed like Satoru didn't want to fight, so they should hurry up and leave."Stop right there!!"Just because Satoru didn't want to fight didn't mean Usopp didn't.Usopp scrambled up and aimed his slingshot at Zambai and his crew."Give me back the money!!""That's the money we need to repair our ship, it's very, very important!!""With this money, the going merry can be fixed!! There's no way I'm letting you steal it!!"This was one of the few times Usopp was genuinely angry from the bottom of his heart. It wasn't easy to see such clear rage on his face, which showed just how important the going merry was to him.As soon as those words left his mouth, Zambaiknew a fight was inevitable. But before he could even draw his weapon, Forest Mask Bai Yun, who was behind Usopp, delivered a hand chop to Usopp's neck. Caught off guard, Usopp rolled his eyes back, fainted, and collapsed straight down.That was as far as Usopp knew. He didn't think, nor did he believe, that it was Satoru who knocked him out; he assumed Satoru had fainted along with him.And what followed was something Usopp didn't know.When Zambai and his crew saw Forest Mask Bai Yun knock Usopp out himself, question marks popped up over their heads."Eh?!"Forest Mask Bai Yun flashed past them. After he stopped, the two cases of money were back in his hands.With his back to Zambai and his crew, he turned his head and said, "You guys want this money, right?""Take me to your boss.""I'll give it to you."Zambai was even more confused. You'll give it to us? You're just going to hand over 200 million Berriesjust like that?!After hesitating for a moment, Zambai chose to lead the way.Well, actually, it was only after getting beaten up by Forest Mask Bai Yun that he was satisfied enough to lead the way.Not revealing where his "crystal" was was the right decision, so Zambai had planned to snatch it back, only to get "five-killed."He could only obediently lead the way. As for why he was leading the way, first, he couldn't bear to part with the 200 million Berries, and second, he believed his boss could avenge him.Satoru knew that Franky took the 200 million Berries to buy the wood needed to build the thousand sunny—the adam tree.Franky wanted to build a ship of dreams. Eventually, after recognizing the character of Luffy and his crew, he willingly built the thousand sunny for them and became a member of the Straw Hat Pirates.It's just that the process of getting on the ship was a bit... perverted...Giving the money to Franky wasn't necessarily a wrong decision; there was a chance that if he were too slow, the adam tree would be bought by someone else.However, right now, Usopp was still thinking about fixing the going merry. There was no helping it; Satoru could only resort to this method. This way, he could avoid Usopp getting beaten half to death while also ensuring Franky could buy the adam tree.As for Luffy and the others coming back for revenge after learning the money was stolen, Satoru only told Franky:"Taking this money comes with a price."Inside Franky's house, the first thing Satoru said when he walked in was exactly that to Franky."Huh??"Franky was also wearing a mask at the time; this was a conversation between two masked men."Who are you?"Franky said in his thug tone."Boss, he's the one who beat us up!""And then he said he'd give us the money! That's a full 200 million Berries, he must be lying!"Zambai immediately accused him. As soon as he said that, Forest Mask Bai Yun tossed the two cases of money to Franky."You're actually giving it away?!"Zambai's eyes almost popped out of his head at Forest Mask Bai Yun.He didn't expect Forest Mask Bai Yun to actually give it away. That was 200 million Berries! 200 million!! So generous! Do you have a death wish?!"You're taking this money to realize your own dream, right.""I am a Wish Genie!!""My mission is to help others realize their dreams!!"Forest Mask Bai Yun did a spin, grabbed his cape to cover himself, and started acting the part."What? What kind of Wish Genie?""There are people like this?""Then give me another 200 million, or give me a bottle of bottomless cola."Franky wanted more.Forest Mask Bai Yun replied, "Don't push your luck. If I had bottomless cola, would I give it to you?""200 million is enough.""Finally, just remember, taking this money comes with a price.""Well then, goodbye!"After speaking, Forest Mask Bai Yun flicked his cape, turned, and flew off like a bullet. In the eyes of Franky and his crew, it was as if he had vanished into thin air."He disappeared!!"Everyone was startled, including Franky."There is a price.""Hmm~ Super!""Our Franky Family doesn't fear any price!!""Here's 5 million Berries for you guys to party!"Franky generously gave 5 million Berries to Zambaiand his crew, instantly earning cheers from his underlings.As for himself, he took the remaining money and went with the Square Sisters to buy the adam tree.
Chapter 440: The Best ExampleAfter giving the money to Franky, Forest Mask Bai Yun returned all the way to where Usopp was lying. Nami and Usopp were both still there. Just as Usopp was wondering where Forest Mask Bai Yun had gone, Bai Yun arrived… "Bai Yun!!"Usopp was still very excited, still calling him Bai Yun instead of Forest Mask, because Forest Mask Bai Yun was carrying two suitcases, which were unfortunately fake and contained no money.Forest Mask Bai Yun returned a smile."Are you two alright?""Never mind us, are you okay? Did you get the money back?!"Usopp asked excitedly.Forest Mask Bai Yun felt a little ashamed. "I'm fine."As for the money, Forest Mask Bai Yun gestured at the boxes twice. As for whether there was money inside, I didn't say."That's great."Usopp cried tears of joy.Just then, Luffy suddenly descended from the sky, landing precisely between them, then rolling out and hitting the wall."Luffy!?"Usopp was surprised."Luffy, why did you fall from the sky?"Luffy sprang up. Falling from the sky was a mere trifle to Luffy, like an itch."Usopp!!""Usopp and Forest Mask had their money stolen by the Franky Family!!"Luffy said excitedly.Usopp didn't know how to respond. "Why don't you open your eyes wider and look at me again?"Luffy paused. "Usopp!!""Are you alright?""And Forest Mask, you too, the boxes, did you get the money back?"He finally reacted."Yes, thanks to Bai… Forest Mask, we got the money back.""The Going Merry can be repaired."Usopp happily told Luffy.Hearing this, Luffy and Nami's expressions simultaneously stiffened.Usopp noticed this, and just as he was about to speak, Forest Mask Bai Yun immediately stepped in to smooth things over."Let's go back to the Going Merry and meet up with everyone first."Usopp agreed. "Right, let's talk about it on the Going Merry. We should tell the Going Merry this good news too."Forest Mask Bai Yun & Luffy & Nami: "…"…"Hmm? They're back."On the Going Merry, Zoro's sharp eyes spotted Luffy and the two others returning.Earlier, Sanji and Chopper had already returned to the ship, so this was said for them to hear.Moreover, Zoro had already told Sanji and Chopper about Kaku's words that the Going Merry could no longer sail."Isn't Sister Robin with them?"Sanji and Chopper walked to the railing.Chopper waved, while Sanji was still thinking about Robin.But at present, the most urgent thing was to tell Usopp the fact that the Going Merry couldn't be repaired… "Hahahaha, under the wise leadership of Captain Usopp, we still got the 200 million Berries back.""Now we can rest assured and repair the Going Merry. When should we go discuss it with Iceberg, that shipyard owner?"Everyone gathered on the deck, and Usopp immediately brought up the topic of when to repair the Going Merry.Everyone fell silent."What's wrong? Why are you reacting like this?""Aren't you happy that the Going Merry is going to be repaired?"Usopp asked a profound question.Forest Mask Bai Yun sighed. He would have to bring up the topic."The Going Merry is like a companion, how could we not be happy?""But looking at everyone's reactions, I think, is it that the Going Merry… cannot be repaired?"Luffy looked up, a smile on his face. This was the first time Bai Yun had seen a forced smile on Luffy's face."Yes, that's right.""So I've already decided to get a new ship.""Thanks to the Going Merry, we were able to get here. It has completed its mission."For him to be able to say this, it meant Luffy had come to terms with it, but now that he had, it was Usopp's turn."Look, there are many ships on this price list from tens of millions to 300 million Berries, enough for us to choose from. Any of them can be exchanged for a bigger ship."Luffy kept talking.Usopp couldn't listen anymore."Wait, wait, what nonsense are you talking about, Luffy?""What do you mean it can't be repaired?""Is a repair fee of 300 million Berries not enough?!"Luffy shook his head."It's not like that."Usopp couldn't stay calm."Then how is it?! Explain clearly!! Is it not enough money? Or what?!""It's not about the money!!"Watching their voices grow louder, Zoro spoke up."Calm down, speak properly, don't argue!"Usopp couldn't calm down."How can I calm down? This guy is always talking nonsense!!"Luffy was the same; how much less did he miss the Going Merry than Usopp? But just as Iceberg said, as the captain, he had to make such a painful decision."It was also very difficult for me to make this decision."The closer they spoke, the louder they shouted. Chopper and Sanji could only hold the two back. At this point, Luffy also couldn't hold back and shouted."The Going Merry can't be repaired!!!""It can't be repaired no matter what, otherwise I wouldn't do this."Hearing this terrible truth, Usopp's eyes widened, and he froze in place."Are you talking about this ship? This ship that we've sailed until now?"Usopp asked again in disbelief.Luffy, of course, knew Usopp's reluctance, and calmed down to confirm with Usopp."Yes, this ship is going to sink.""Did those shipwrights say it themselves?"Forest Mask Bai Yun interjected, asking.Luffy looked at him and nodded.But Usopp still refused to believe, crossing his arms and glancing away."What on earth are you talking about, Luffy?""We only met those people today, and you already believe them?""Just because someone who calls themselves a 'first-class shipwright' said so, you're going to abandon the Going Merry?!!""Abandon this companion who has been with us through thick and thin, overcoming countless storms?!!""Are you going to doom it to death now?!!!""Is this ship only worth this much in your eyes, Luffy?!!"Usopp's words were each more agitated than the last, every sentence piercing Luffy's heart. He was too extreme, so much so that he forgot how much Luffy and everyone else also loved the Going Merry.Forest Mask Bai Yun sighed and shook his head. Usopp loved the Going Merry too much; the deeper the love, the more extreme and irrational he became when faced with loss.In this regard, the Uchiha clan is the best example.
Chapter 441: Duel Me!!Usopp loved the going merry too much, to the point of being so extreme now.A certain mysterious masked man understood this feeling well; a world without Rin had no reason to exist.Usopp wasn't quite that far gone, but he was extreme enough.So extreme that he refused to believe the words of professional shipwrights, feeling that Luffy was fickle and only had the new ship on his mind.He forgot how much Luffy loved the figurehead of the going merry, that spot which was his exclusive place...."The Luffy I know wouldn't believe the words of such businessmen, but would firmly believe in the resilience of the going merry.""Don't put on the airs of a Captain, thinking you're wise and experienced... making such a terrible decision!!"Usopp was so extreme that he wasn't like his usual self, having the audacity to grab Luffy by the collar."I misjudged you! Luffy!!""Wait, Usopp, Luffy was also at the beginning..."Nami wanted to explain for Luffy. When he first learned that the going merry couldn't be repaired, he was just as emotional and unwilling to believe it, but Iceburg's words had awakened him. As Captain, he had to make a decision; if he waited until the going merry completely disintegrated and sank to the bottom of the sea while sailing, it would be too late."Shut up!! Nami!!"Usopp shouted, and it was evident how extreme he was."This matter is for me to decide. As things stand, no matter what you say, I won't change my mind.""I'm going to change ships, and I will say goodbye to the going merry right here!!"Usopp spoke ruthlessly, and Luffy was just as resolute."What kind of joke is this? I won't allow it!!""Enough, both of you are so worked up, how long are you going to argue!! Is there nothing you can discuss!"Sanji couldn't watch anymore. He didn't understand how Zoro and Satoru could still be there with their eyes closed, resting, as if it had nothing to do with them. Seeing that they were ignoring him, he shouted himself.But Sanji was a bit naive. This wasn't a matter of whether they could discuss it; the going merry had reached its end, and this was something Usopp had to accept. But it seemed that in the short term, Usopp wouldn't end it, at least not now."Listen up! Luffy, not everyone is like you, only looking ahead and abandoning injured comrades to set off. I could never do such a thing."Usopp's words struck deep into Luffy's heart; saying Luffy abandoned his comrades was practically the greatest insult.Luffy's eyes turned red. "Stop talking nonsense!!! Even if it's a comrade, the going merry is a ship, it's different!! We are powerless!!"Usopp wouldn't listen."It's the same!! The going merry also has potential, it also wants to survive!!!""The problem is that you only care about the new ship right now, while pretending to be reluctant to part with the going merry!!"Hearing this, Satoru frowned. Usopp was overexcited!Sure enough.Clang!These words were like a heavy hammer striking Luffy's mind. Only care about the new ship?? Pretending to be reluctant to part??!Luffy couldn't take it anymore. He reached out, pushed Usopp down, and pinned his hands. "Don't go too far!! Don't think you're the only one in pain!! Everyone is the same!!""Then why did you still make the decision to change ships?"Under the influence of his extremism, the six words "The going merry cannot be repaired" couldn't enter Usopp's mind at all."Fine!! If you're satisfied with my decision!! Right now, get off this ship...""Bastard!!"Whoosh!Smack!Luffy was also emotional; those words couldn't be said. Sanji instantly kicked over, but Satoru flashed over, using one hand to block Sanji's leg and the other to push Luffy off Usopp."You two, both of you calm down."Forest Mask Bai Yun spoke, his tone very cold; it wasn't appropriate to have a cheerful tone at this time."Sanji, this is their business, let them talk it out themselves."Retracting his palm, Forest Mask Bai Yun said to Sanji again. Seeing that Satoru had intervened, Sanjicould only sigh, withdraw his leg, and nod."Luffy, don't say things you can't take back just because you're too emotional.""I'm sorry, I was too emotional, I didn't mean to..."Luffy apologized quickly.Forest Mask Bai Yun nodded, then looked at Usopp. Usopp was looking at the deck, unwilling to meet Satoru's gaze."Usopp, you... need to accept reality."When these words were spoken, Usoppimmediately looked up to meet Satoru's gaze."You... do you support Luffy too?!""That's right! You are Luffy's brother, of course you support him!!""What?"Luffy was confused.Forest Mask Bai Yun sighed. Usopp wasn't listening to anything anyway, so he took off his mask. When Luffy saw it was Satoru's face, he was also surprised."Satoru!""So you were Forest Mask all along!!"Satoru nodded."Yeah, there are some reasons why I needed another identity.""Remember, when there are outsiders around, call me Forest Mask.""You guys are still talking about this!!""What's the point of disguising! Isn't it just your bad taste, Satoru!!"Usopp couldn't listen anymore and shouted to interrupt Satoru and Luffy's conversation; he was truly so extreme that he had almost lost his reason."Luffy, abandoning useless comrades to continue the journey, if you want to abandon this ship, then abandon me too.""Hey! Stop talking nonsense, Usopp."Sanji couldn't listen anymore; what was he trying to do?"No! I'm serious! I've thought about it for a long time. To be honest, I can no longer keep up with your strength.""Just look at today, if it weren't for Satoru, maybe we wouldn't have even gotten the money back."Satoru: "...""You don't need comrades who hold you back, right? Luffy, one day you will become the King of the Pirates, but I don't need to go to such heights.""Back then, you were the ones who invited me on board. Let our fate end here. We have different paths, so I will...""Usopp! If you say those words, you know what the consequences will be!!"Satoru tried to stop him.Usopp was silent for a few seconds, then turned and walked off the ship. "I'm leaving this pirate crew!!""What!!"As these words came out, everyone's hearts trembled."That won't do, come back!"Nami shouted."Ah! Wait!!"Sanji didn't expect it to come to this point.Chopper's tears immediately streamed from his eyes."Ah? Ah?? Don't go!! Usopp!!"But no matter how everyone shouted, Usopp's back was full of determination."I'm sorry, I can't continue sailing with you.""This ship belongs to you, Captain... So, please duel me!! If I win, the going merry will be mine...""Monkey D. Luffy!!!""Duel me!!!"
Chapter 442: Betraying You All"Duel me!!"For the sake of the going merry, Usopp, who had always been afraid of fighting, challenged Luffy to a duel.Luffy agreed; he was also filled with rage."I will return here at ten o'clock tonight.""And then we will duel, with the going merry as the stakes.""The bond between you and me ends here."Usopp said this resolutely, then turned and left.Although Usopp spoke with confidence, how could the current Usopp possibly defeat the current Luffy?..."What on earth are you two doing! Why are you fighting amongst yourselves!!""Give each other some time, and you can both calm down!""Usopp just lost his head for a moment."As time ticked away, Luffy returned to the room and lay in the hammock, while Nami persisted in trying to persuade Luffy not to duel.Luffy was silent for a moment, then took off his straw hat and covered his face with it."It's too late to turn back now.""That's not true. If you just apologize to him and talk it out properly, everything will be fine!"Nami replied."I don't agree with that.""Nami, why should Luffy apologize? Do you think this is Luffy's fault?"Satoru had also entered the room and happened to hear Nami's words."No, I just...""Oh! Then what should we do!! One of them has to back down!! Isn't that better than them fighting?"Things had reached this point, and Nami was very frustrated."Then why should Luffy apologize, and not Usopp?""As Luffy's brother, I naturally side with Luffy."Satoru replied."..."Nami was speechless."Forget it, let's not dwell on this for now. Gather on the deck; I have something to say."At such a critical moment, Satoru still had something to say. Nami nodded and walked out past Satoru, hoping it would be something that could change the current situation.Luffy was still lying in the hammock. Satoru looked over, and Luffy could feel it."...""I'm the brother."Satoru gave a helpless, bitter smile. You're concerned about that?"Yes, yes, yes, you're the boss."...At Satoru's notification, everyone gathered on the deck.Chopper still couldn't accept the fact that Usopphad left and was sobbing there."Chopper, it's okay. Things haven't reached the point of no return yet."Satoru comforted him."?"Chopper wore a puzzled expression; he didn't understand."I mean, Usopp will come back."Satoru replied."Really!?"Chopper's eyes immediately lit up."Really.""That's great."The others listened silently, assuming it was just Satoru comforting Chopper, so they didn't say anything."So, at this critical juncture, what else did you want to say, Satoru?"Sanji lit one cigarette after another."First, about Usopp, Luffy, don't be too angry.""The going merry isn't just attached to Usopp's feelings for his hometown. Since we don't have a shipwright, Usopp has always taken on the role of ship carpenter, repairing the going merry countless times. The going merry means a lot to him, which is why he's being so extreme.""There is no right or wrong in this matter.""After the duel tonight, just leave it to time. Before we leave Water 7, perhaps Usopp will return."Satoru's words made everyone feel a bit better. Yes, there really was no right or wrong; it was just that when it came to dealing with the going merry, everyone's emotions and considerations were different."Yeah."Luffy sat cross-legged on the ground, his straw hattilted to cover one eye. He nodded to indicate he understood Satoru's words."Alright, then let's move to the second matter."Satoru brought out two suitcases; they had been in his hands since he returned earlier."Hm?"Everyone was puzzled; what was he doing taking out suitcases at a time like this?They saw Satoru open both cases at the same time. With a click, the two cases unfolded, immediately revealing they were empty—not a single cent inside."Eh!!!?"Everyone was shocked."What's going on?! Where's the money?!! Satoru!!"Nami immediately asked."I gave it to Franky."Satoru replied calmly."What??"Nami couldn't believe her ears."What did you say??""You gave that 200 million Berries to Franky? Why??""I knew that for the sake of the going merry, Usoppwould be persistent. To prevent him from getting hurt, I was the one who knocked him out.""I took the money to Franky House and met Frankyhimself. He took the money to buy materials for shipbuilding.""I gave him the money, but told him there was a price to pay. The price is that the ship he builds will become our new ship, though he doesn't know that.""Franky's shipbuilding skills are on par with Iceburg's. His dream is to build a dream ship. Aside from everything else, entrusting the ship to him is the right decision."Satoru stated his thoughts.Everyone was silent. It was as if Satoru had grasped the situation in Water 7 in a single day. Why did he know that Franky's shipbuilding skills were on par with Iceburg's? Why did he know Franky's dream was to build a dream ship?"Curious about why I know so much?""It seems like you're prophetic every time."Satoru voluntarily brought up their confusion, partly to explain it himself. Of course, he couldn't tell them he came from another dimension.Satoru told everyone what he had told Robin—about his innate Observation Haki that could see the short-term future and know the past, which he called the Eyes of Insight."That's right, if you hadn't mentioned it, I would have almost forgotten!"Nami realized. When Satoru returned to Arlong Park with her, he had already told her, but Nami's mind had been full of her hometown at the time, leading her to forget."What an amazing ability."Chopper praised."Oh, right. I remember you saying you could tell fortunes when you were a kid, Satoru."Luffy also seemed to have a sudden realization.Seriously, Bai "Liar" Yun."Innate?""Heaven really blessed you with that."Sanji said, without any hint of jealousy."Alright, regardless.""Franky went to buy materials for shipbuilding. If you aren't comfortable entrusting it to him, when he returns, you can take the materials back and give them to Iceburg.""And the third thing I want to talk about is Sister Robin, who has been missing and hasn't returned yet.""You know what's going on? Satoru?!""So, what happened to Sister Robin!!?"Sanji immediately pressed for an answer, as this matter had also been baffling him."I am just a clone, or rather, the Forest Mask that appeared is likely a clone.""My Main Body is with Robin right now, so you don't need to worry.""How should I put it.""It's just like the situation with Nami and me back then.""Sister Robin and I have 'betrayed' you."
Chapter 443: Declaring War on the World Government!!Robin vanished.Usopp wanted to leave the pirate crew because of the Going Merry.Just as Zoro had guessed, it was a turbulent time.And while many questions remained, Bai Yun was like the final answer in a problem set, providing solutions to Luffy and the others. But with each answer, their shock only grew… "Sister Robin and I 'betrayed' you.""What?!"Chopper was startled, because he was the only one who took it seriously.Everyone else understood that if Bai Yun and Robin had truly betrayed them, why would Forest Mask Bai Yun still be here talking?"Is that why you said we're enemies now when you left?"Zoro asked.Bai Yun nodded, "Yeah, but we're not really enemies."Nami knew Bai Yun's routine best; he had said the same thing when he caught up to her and returned with her to Cocoyasi Village."Stop with the games!!""Explain exactly what's going on?!"Nami said. With so many things piling up, she was very irritable, and her temper wasn't good to begin with."Do you know Sister Robin's identity?"Bai Yun countered.A vein popped on Nami's forehead, and she resisted punching Bai Yun."If we knew, we wouldn't be so confused."Bai Yun raised his hands to calm Nami."Calm down, calm down.""I'll be direct.""Sister Robin is a survivor of Ohara.""Ohara?"Everyone was puzzled; no one present was over 20 years old.Ohara had been wiped out 20 years ago, when Robin was 8. Robin was now 28.Bai Yun nodded and explained what he knew.Ohara was a famous archaeological sanctuary in the West Blue, but twenty years ago, Ohara disappeared from the sea, razed to the ground by a Marine Buster Call."As for a Buster Call, it's an operation where ten Marine battleships indiscriminately bomb an island.""Sister Robin's people… all died in that Buster Call.""That's too cruel!!"Understanding what a Buster Call was, Nami covered her mouth in shock, also feeling sympathy for Robin."Why?"Zoro spoke, just three short words. He usually remained silent regarding matters within the pirate crew, supporting the captain, Luffy's, decisions, which didn't conflict with his desire to cut Luffy."I said, Ohara was a famous archaeological sanctuary. Because of their knowledge, specifically because Sister Robin could read the ancient text on the Poneglyphs, in the eyes of the Marines and the World Government, they deserved to die.""Aokiji even called her the 'Devil Child' because of this.""My main body and Sister Robin are currently with those government people.""Sister Robin chose to go with them, wanting to exchange herself for our safety."After Bai Yun finished speaking, everyone fell silent, and Chopper cried tears of emotion."So Robin is such a good person, truly a man!!!"No one bothered to correct Chopper about calling a lady a 'man'.Everyone was moved. Compared to betrayal, they naturally preferred to believe the possibility Bai Yun presented."Sister Robin is heavily monitored by the World Government, and because we became her companions, Aokiji said we would regret it.""Do you regret it?"Bai Yun asked.Luffy looked up, his eyes firmly fixed on Bai Yun."Of course not! I will never abandon my nakama!!"Bai Yun nodded, his gaze also becoming resolute."Then, if we want to bring her back, we must declare war on the World Government!!""As for what Sister Robin is doing now, I'm sorry, I promised a certain Minotaur I couldn't say.""In short, you'll know by tomorrow.""Remember, tomorrow will be an exciting day."…After the three matters were explained, Bai Yun dismissed everyone, waiting for ten o'clock to arrive."Phew~""You've learned to smoke."Bai Yun was standing by the starboard railing, feeling the sea breeze, wondering if knowing too much was a good thing.Zoro walked up from behind, saw Bai Yun smoking, and asked.Bai Yun looked at him."Although I don't like the smell of smoke, I have to admit, it's very useful when you're troubled.""If you mind, I'll put it out."Zoro shook his head, "That perverted cook smokes a lot more than you.""Who are you calling a pervert, Moss-head!!"Sanji appeared, and the two stood on either side of Bai Yun.Although he retorted, he indeed had a cigarette dangling from his mouth."What, you two also feel like enjoying the sea breeze?"Bai Yun asked with a smile."With so many things piling up, I can't sit still."Sanji replied.Zoro, in a rare moment, nodded in agreement with Sanji's sentiment."Life isn't life if it's always smooth sailing."Bai Yun flicked the cigarette butt onto the shore."So, what exactly will happen tomorrow?"Sanji pressed.Bai Yun glanced at him, "Sometimes, knowing too much isn't a good thing.""Sometimes I even wish I couldn't see the future.""Why?"Zoro was puzzled."Because… it lacks a sense of surprise. Always knowing what's going to happen next, while it allows for early countermeasures, feels so boring.""So…""So what?""So I won't say what will happen tomorrow."Bai Yun patted Zoro and Sanji's shoulders, then leaped onto the crow's nest. This familiar crow's nest might be the last time he could lie down there.Below, Zoro and Sanji exchanged glances, rolled their eyes at each other, then each found a place to rest, waiting for ten o'clock to arrive… Time ticked by, and suddenly, ten o'clock struck.Usopp's figure appeared on the shore right on time."You guys stay on the ship, don't come over!"Luffy prepared to go down, reminding everyone very seriously; this might be one of the few times he displayed his captain's authority."We know what a duel means, Luffy."Bai Yun replied.Luffy heard Bai Yun's answer, nodded slightly, tightened his straw hat, and disembarked… On the shore, Luffy and Usopp stood opposite each other.The wind rustled their clothes and hair.Luffy spoke first."You came without fear. Regardless of the outcome, this duel was your request.""Of course! Bring it on, I'll make you pay. I've already thought of a way to deal with you."Usopp was very confident, or rather, he wouldn't lose face even if he lost."Don't compare me to those who didn't know your limits before, Luffy. We've spent so much time together, I know your abilities inside out."Usopp boasted.Everyone on the ship listened silently. Bai Yun tapped the railing, thinking, *Usopp, you still remember spending so much time with Luffy, huh
Chapter 444: Luffy vs. UsoppThe agreed-upon time of ten o'clock arrived, and Usopp arrived for the duel right on time.Luffy also got off the ship, preparing to begin the duel.The others were watching from the going merry.Chopper couldn't really bear to watch."Can't we really stop them?"Zoro replied, "Chopper, if you can't bear to watch, then go back to your room first."Chopper lowered his head in disappointment, but he chose not to go back to his room....Back on the shore."Listen up, Luffy, don't be surprised!!""I have 8,000 subordinates!!""If you want to save your life, then surrender to me obediently!!"Usopp's usual trick."Eh!! You actually have 8,000 subordinates!!"Before Luffy even reacted, Chopper on the ship was scared, his mouth agape and eyes wide."You should really go back to your room."Zoro couldn't help but advise Chopper again."Do you think I don't know that you don't have those subordinates?!?"Luffy shouted back. Just as Usopp had said, having spent so much time together, who didn't know Usopp was lying... well, except for Chopper.Usopp came up with another plan after the first one failed."Usopp Curse!!""Blades stuck between all your teeth!!""Needles jammed under your fingernails, then slamming into a wall!!""Ah!!!"The power of words; just thinking about it hurts.Chopper was deeply affected, and Zoro repeated the same thing, "You should just go back."But Luffy wouldn't be affected by these "minor injuries.""Gum-Gum..."He gathered power and stepped forward.Before he could throw a punch, he saw Usoppsuddenly collapse, spitting out blood."Wuaah!!! Usopp is spitting blood!!"Chopper shouted in shock.Luffy hesitated, but Usopp raised his head with a smug look in his eyes, "Special Move: Ketchup Star.""What's wrong, are you feeling sympathy for your opponent?""Flash Dial!!"Usopp pulled out a Sky Island shell, and a bright light erupted in front of Luffy. Taking the flash at close range, it stung Luffy, making him cover his eyes, "Ah!"Usopp pressed his advantage, "Special Move: Egg Star!!"The egg hit Luffy squarely in the head. Luffyimmediately made a disgusted expression, "Ah!! It stinks!! It's a rotten egg!!""Damn it, take this seriously!"Luffy shouted. He thought that throwing a rotten egg at him served no purpose other than to gross him out."Do you think I'm joking?!? Luffy!! I am being very serious!!""This is my way of fighting!!""You've got your mouth open so wide, be careful of getting burned!!""Special Move: Chili Oil Star!!"The chili oil bullet landed right in Luffy's mouth. One might doubt Usopp's other abilities, but his sniping ability was unquestionable. Keep in mind, he was using a slingshot, not a gun."So spicy!!"Luffy was spitting fire from the spice and rolling on the ground, but the ground was already covered in caltrops."Caltrop Hell!!""Usopp has taken control of the situation!!"Nami said, feeling incredulous. Was this still the same Usopp who would get scared and hide with her whenever something happened?"Don't underestimate Usopp, this is his tactic.""Throughout our adventures, Usopp himself has defeated many enemies."Satoru replied.It was just like what he had seen online in his previous life: you can fight Batman, but don't schedule a fight with Batman. Applying that to Usopp now, it made some sense.A creative fighting style that utilizes props, weapons, and the environment, combined with his talent for lying and bluffing—this was Usopp's "Usopp Tactics.""Luffy!! I will defeat you and take back the going merry!!""So, I will use any means necessary!!"Luffy stood up, feeling a mess in his mouth."Damn it, it's smelly and spicy... it hurts!!""I said it before, I won't make ineffective attacks against you! I won't give you a chance to use your special moves!!""Shuriken Meteor Shower!!"Shurikens flew toward him, and Luffy dodged immediately. There weren't many, and he dodged them completely, but when all the shurikens had flown past, Luffy found himself surrounded by smoke."Huff! Huff! Huff!""Smoke?""Huff huff!!"Usopp was also very tired from constantly pulling the slingshot. Naturally, he was physically tired, but his heart was even more exhausted."It's a Breath Dial. Because of the rotten egg, you couldn't smell the gas.""You are surrounded by gas right now!""Gas?""Could it be!!"Everyone on the ship understood Usopp's intention and couldn't help but be shocked and worried."Sorry, take this, Fire Star!!"The fire bullet exploded in front of Luffy, and the explosion triggered the gas. A violent explosion erupted instantly, engulfing Luffy.The explosion was so violent that the blast wave blew the waves back into the sea, and the going merry was even tilted by it. Even Satoru had to admit the power of this explosion."What a violent explosion!!"Zoro couldn't help but say."Luffy! Usopp!!"Nami shouted worriedly.After the blast, Luffy lay on the ground, his straw hat knocked off. In his mind, he recalled the times he had spent with Usopp.The stirred-up waves hit the sheep's head of the going merry; it looked as if the going merry was crying.The smoke filled the air.Chopper, unable to see clearly, shouted worriedly for Luffy and Usopp.Nami shook her head. Why did it have to come to this?"This isn't enough to defeat you!! I know that much!! Luffy!!"Usopp knew Luffy's strength; this level of attack wouldn't be enough to make Luffy lose his ability to fight.Sure enough, after the smoke cleared, Luffy's figure stood up.Both of their expressions were determined, teeth gritted.The next second, they both attacked at the same time."Gum-Gum Gatling!""Special Move: Exploding Cactus Star!!"Luffy's fists struck rapidly. Usopp aimed his eyes and took the initiative to shoot the bullet at Luffy's fist. The bullet instantly burst into iron spikes, and Luffyretracted his fist in pain.Usopp pursued, "Special Move: Triple Firework Star!"Three consecutive firework stars hit Luffy. Explosions rang out one after another. After the violent explosion just now, these explosions didn't elicit much reaction from the people on the ship.Moreover, Luffy had dodged them all and was even able to counterattack."Gum-Gum Pistol!"He punched Usopp in the right cheek. Usopp felt the pain, lost his footing, and fell.Luffy took the opportunity to gather power and close in, but Usopp got up immediately."Gum-Gum Rocket!!"The two-handed Gum-Gum Rocket struck Usopp's abdomen, but there was no sound.It turned out Usopp was holding an impact dial to block Luffy's Gum-Gum Rocket."This is an impact dial; your attack has been absorbed by me!""Impact!!"Usopp explained, and then, without hesitation, he used the impact dial to launch an impact at Luffy's forehead.He who was so afraid of pain before and wouldn't use it, was now using it without hesitation. This was a duel, but Satoru didn't understand; although holding back is an insult to an opponent, had it really come to this point? Was he completely disregarding their past friendship?"Truly crazy."Regarding Usopp's move, which deals 1,000 damage to the enemy while taking 800 himself, Satoru commented as such.
Chapter 445: An Exciting Day"It's an impact dial!!"Nami and Chopper shouted in surprise.Luffy and Usopp were dueling. For the sake of the going merry, Usopp didn't hesitate to use the impact dial, even though he had been so afraid of the pain before.Satoru appeared calm, but his crossed arms were gripping his own sleeves tightly. He didn't understand—Usopp had feelings for the Merry, but did he have no feelings for Luffy?After spending so much time together, the impact dial was unleashed right against Luffy's face. For anyone else, it would have been a significant injury. Even with Luffy's rubber body, his head was knocked back, and blood spurted from his nose... "Waaaaah!!!""See how powerful I am now?!"Usopp clutched the arm he used the impact dialwith. While the impact dial's power was immense, the recoil was equally great. Much like the Tremor-Tremor Fruit, even a body as strong as Whitebeard's required an IV drip in his later years.However, from those words, Satoru could see that Usopp wasn't just angry about the going merrybeing abandoned by Luffy; he was also venting his frustration over his own weakness.However, he had also underestimated Luffy. Despite taking the impact dial right to the face and having his head knocked back, Luffy stepped back with his right foot and stood his ground firmly."Gum-Gum Bullet!!"Accompanied by memories of Usopp in his mind, Luffy threw a Gum-Gum Bullet punch into Usopp's abdomen.Usopp didn't have such a resilient body; he coughed up blood from the punch, his eyes rolling back."Usopp!!!"Chopper shouted in disbelief.Nami also covered her head, unable to watch.Satoru, Zoro, and Sanji appeared much calmer.Usopp fell to the ground, just as Zoro had said."The match is decided."Satoru nodded."The outcome isn't surprising."On the shore, only Luffy's heavy breathing remained. He was so exhausted that he sank to his knees.Looking at the fallen Usopp, Luffy couldn't help but shout."You idiot, how could you possibly beat me?!"Picking up his straw hat and standing up, Luffywalked toward the going merry."Merry, do whatever you want. We're going to buy a new ship and keep sailing forward!""Goodbye, Usopp. Being with you... I was really happy."Luffy spoke as he walked.On the going merry, Chopper wanted to go down and treat Usopp's injuries, but Sanji stopped him."They weren't just arguing; they were dueling!!""So what?! I'm a doctor! I have to go treat him!!"Sanji gripped Chopper's shoulders with both hands. "Think about it. To lose a duel and then be pitied—for a man, is there anything more humiliating than that?""That kind of unintentional kindness only rubs salt in a loser's wounds. He challenged him to a duel knowing full well what he was getting into!"Although Chopper was simple-minded, he knew Sanji's words made sense, and his mind was in a whirl."Yeah, Chopper. Don't underestimate Usopp. After taking that punch, maybe he's realized a lot of things."Satoru added his comfort.Only then did Chopper revert to his normal form, silently lowering his head.By then, Luffy had returned to the base of the going merry."My heart feels so heavy."At that moment, Zoro's response carried the weight of a first mate."That's what it means to be a Captain.""Don't waver!!""If you're indecisive, who else can we believe in?"Satoru and Chopper jumped off the ship together.Chopper placed some medicine next to Usopp.Chopper ran back crying, and Usopp, lying on the ground, was crying just as much.Satoru walked over to Luffy and patted him on the shoulder."As a crew member, I want to say you did the right thing.""As a brother—cry. There's no need to suppress your emotions. A Captain is human too."Hearing this, Luffy could no longer hold it in. He pulled down his straw hat to cover half his face, and tears flowed.Seeing this, Zoro spoke on Luffy's behalf, "Unload our things. We're never coming back to this ship again."...On the rooftop of the Backstreet Hotel.It was now the next morning."So this is where you are.""It's rare that we found a hotel to settle in, yet there isn't a single person in the rooms. It seems no one can sleep."Sanji came out to the balcony; he was speaking to Chopper, who was already there."Where's Luffy?""Over there."Chopper pointed to a roof to the front right. Luffywas sitting there cross-legged; according to Chopper, he had been sitting there all night."I went to ask Forest Mask, but he still won't say where Sister Robin went."Sanji walked over and leaned against the balcony railing. He was strictly following Satoru's request to call him Forest Mask."He just keeps saying we'll find out in a bit.""It's really annoying."Sanji grumbled.Just then, Nami came up, burst through the balcony door, and told everyone that Iceburg had been shot last night, while also explaining to Sanji and Chopper who Iceburg was."Then he really is quite a significant figure."Upon hearing this, Luffy jumped directly off the roof."I'm going to take a look. Wait, Luffy! I'm coming with you!"Nami shouted. She couldn't jump down like him, so she immediately turned to the stairs. Just then, Zoroand Satoru were coming up, and they quickly made way for Nami."So this is the 'exciting day' you mentioned."Zoro asked.Satoru nodded. "This is only the beginning.""Go find Sister Robin, Sanji, Chopper. News came from the Main Body—Sister Robin is also looking for one of us to say goodbye.""Just listen for now. I'll tell you why when you get back."Satoru kept them in suspense.Sanji was left completely confused, but at the thought of seeing Sister Robin soon, he immediately nodded and took Chopper downstairs to search the streets for her.Only Zoro and Satoru remained on the balcony."Aren't you going with them, Zoro?""...I'll wait and see how things develop."Zoro replied.Satoru nodded, walked to the railing, and leaned over it. "Tonight, the giant tsunami, Aqua Laguna, will submerge half of this city.""And we will be framed as the assassins who shot Iceburg, becoming wanted men.""I said it last night too—Sister Robin agreed to go with the World Government for our sake. The ones who shot Iceburg were Sister Robin and the World Government people. That was one of their conditions—to frame us.""With Luffy's personality, he will definitely bring Robin back."Satoru suddenly told Zoro everything he knew. Whether he just couldn't keep it in anymore or felt Zoro was more reliable is hard to say.Hearing this, Zoro fell silent and walked over to Satoru's side, looking toward the shipyard ahead."Then it really is as you said.""An exciting day."
Chapter 446: Straw Hat Pirates vs. Galley-La Shipwrights vs. Franky"Super~"Franky successfully bought back the adam tree. His Franky House was also intact when he returned home, so he was in a good mood.But just as he sat down, he saw Zambai's shifty eyes. "What's wrong, Zambai? Your big brother is getting closer to his dream now. Aren't you happy?""Ah, no, this..."Franky's subordinates naturally knew the relationship between Franky and Iceberg."What is this and that!! Say what you want to say, don't beat around the bush!!"Franky shouted, and Zambai immediately showed him the newspaper."Hmm..."Franky looked at the newspaper, narrowing his eyes.Zambai was too scared to speak."..."However, Franky shouted the next second."Bring it closer!! I can't see clearly!!""Oh dear!!"The subordinates stumbled, inwardly complaining that Franky, despite not being able to see, had put on such a serious expression.People with nearsightedness say: I really just can't see clearly, I'm not being aloof."Boss Iceberg was assassinated, Big Brother!"Zambai shouted it out directly. Franky's eyes widened, the bloodshot veins clearly visible, and he seemed very angry, yet... "Oh, what the hell does that have to do with me?""Oh dear!"Zambai and the others were once again flustered by their big brother."Forget it, let's go take a look anyway. If Iceberg dies and a New Mayor takes over, that wouldn't be good for us. Who knows what kind of rotten gourd will take power."Zambai: "Big Brother, it's 'crooked gourd, cracked jujube.'""Hmm!""...Big Brother, whatever you say."...At the shipyard, Luffy and Nami arrived at the entrance, which was already jam-packed with reporters—who were either concerned about Iceberg's condition or their own news coverage—and citizens genuinely concerned about Mr. Iceberg's condition."So many people."Nami exclaimed."The old man is really popular.""Should we still go in, Luffy? It looks impossible to enter...""Watch out!!"As Nami was speaking, Luffy stretched his arm and flew with her onto the shore.They saw a serrated knife stuck in the Blue Boatthey were riding, still vibrating."What happened?!!"Nami said, confused and surprised."You've got a lot of nerve!""What is your goal!! Straw Hat!!"The voice struck. The ones who threw the serrated knife were the Five Master Shipwrights of the Galley-La Company: Pauly, Lucci, Kaku, Pepporone, and Nergal Galette. Pauly was the one who shouted."It's the shipwrights from Dock One!!""They must know Mr. Iceberg's condition!!"When the Five Master Shipwrights appeared, the reporters and citizens were excited, but seeing them holding weapons and exuding a powerful aura, no one dared to approach."You must know what you've done, Straw Hat!!""You've got quite the guts, daring to deliver yourself right to our doorstep."Pauly said again, his expression fierce, though it was no different from their first meeting.Luffy and Nami both looked confused."What? What are you talking about?""We only came after hearing the news about the old man...""Dare to do it but don't dare to..."Hearing Luffy's reply, Pauly was very displeased, and just then, music began to play.They saw a curtain appear on the bridge at some point, and three figures were dancing behind it."That music!""It's that idiot!!"Completely unlike the reaction to the Five Master Shipwrights, the citizens reacted to Franky's appearance with utter disdain."Don't be shy, everyone, listen to me.""We don't want to listen to you, get lost!!"The citizens were very resistant, but the more they resisted, the more excited Franky became—like a pervert... wait, he was a pervert already."My name is...""I am the strongest Super Man on this island, the hidden hero of Water Seven!!""That's right, everyone calls me Franky!!""Super~"The curtain was raised. Franky, along with the Square Sisters, Kiwi and Mozu, held their arms together, raising them diagonally to the upper left in a pose that... was hard to describe.Franky's appearance startled the citizens, who immediately ran backward, trying to get as far away from him as possible."Who is that pervert?"Luffy could tell Franky was a pervert at first glance, after all, what normal person goes out wearing just underwear."He said his name is Franky."Nami replied, suddenly remembering."It's him! Forest Mask said he handed over 200 million Berries to him.""Him? Shipwright skills that don't lose to the old man's?"Even Luffy expressed doubt about Franky's appearance."Franky! What are you doing causing trouble!!"Pauly shouted at Franky. It was already chaotic enough, and now this pervert had come to stir up trouble."Pauly, how can you say that? I just came to check if Iceberg is dead or not. I'm being super kind!"Franky leaped down from the bridge.The situation instantly became a three-way standoff: Luffy, Franky, and the shipwrights."Hmph, Iceberg would never die before you do!""In short, we don't have time for your nonsense. Get lost.""straw hat..."Because of Robin, Pauly had already determined that Luffy and his crew were the ones who attempted to assassinate Iceberg.Sister Robin probably thought that, compared to the World Government, the shipwrights would be much easier for Luffy's crew to handle."What do you mean, 'Get lost'!""How rude!!""I'm not leaving!! What are you going to do about it!!"Given Franky's thug personality, if you politely asked him to leave, he might not, but with that attitude, he was definitely staying!!"Are you effing crazy!!"Pauly couldn't take it anymore and cursed back, his face turning shark-like.However, taking advantage of Luffy's confusion, he instantly made a move."Half Knot: Aerial Flight!"Pauly threw a rope at Luffy, snaring his neck when Luffy wasn't paying attention.Luffy still didn't understand why Pauly was attacking him, so he was caught off guard and couldn't dodge."Ugh... this feels awful!!!"Pauly didn't care if he felt awful. He pulled Luffy into the air and then violently slammed him toward the ground."If you have a need, I shall appear. Please call me, wish spirit!!"While Luffy was being slammed down, Forest Mask Bai Yun suddenly appeared, catching Luffy and striking a pose while holding him.The rope Pauly had tied around Luffy's neck was also cut by Zoro."Forest Mask, Zoro!!""So you're all here. That's even better!"Nami shouted. She still hadn't figured out why Pauly was attacking them. Although Pauly was a bit strange, wasn't he friendly yesterday?Seeing this, Pauly felt it would be better to take them all out at once."It's you!! wish spirit!!"Franky was also surprised to see Forest Mask Bai Yun appear and pointed at him."Hey."Putting Luffy down, Forest Mask Bai Yun waved to Franky.Not only were Luffy and Nami confused, but the spectators present were also very puzzled; how did the situation get so chaotic?
Chapter 447: Let Them Go First"Wish Genie!""Wish Genie?"The first exclamation was Franky recognizing the Forest Masked White Cloud, but it was merely a false identity.The second was Nami's murmur. What Wish Genie? Was this guy White Cloud fooling people again?As part of the same crew, Nami naturally didn't expose White Cloud.And the Forest Masked White Cloud also responded to Franky's greeting.Bally, holding the rope, scanned his gaze between the two."You two know each other?""Also, who are you? Are you also part of the Straw Hats?!""Since you've asked so sincerely, I shall graciously inform you.""I am the omnipotent Wish Genie!!""As long as you pay a small price, I can grant your wish.""For example, if you wish for me to capture the Straw Hats right now, that's also possible."The Forest Masked White Cloud stood with hands on his hips, head tilted back slightly, looking proud and confident."Really! Then I wish you'd capture them!!""Possible, but there's a price.""What price?""Let them go first.""...""Pfft ha ha ha ha!!""What an interesting fellow!! You strange genie!!"Franky laughed, clutching his stomach."You're messing with me, aren't you!!!"Bally, on the other hand, was so enraged he turned into a shark-faced roar, "I want you to catch them, and you tell me to let them go!!"The Forest Masked White Cloud shrugged, "No choice, that green-haired gentleman already wished for me to help them retreat.""Is that so? Then there's nothing more to say!!""Attack!!!"Bally charged forward first, followed by the other four.Blueno raised his twin guns and fired.Dalton came with an elbow strike.Kaku used his saw-knife as a weapon.Lucci was pure physical combat... Bally's first move succeeded, but using the same move again, Luffy wouldn't fall for it so easily."Why! Why are you, Mr. Rope, attacking us!?"Luffy still didn't understand why he was being attacked."Who are you calling Mr. Rope!!"Clearly, Bally disliked that name."Are you too scared to admit it?!""Straw Hat! Nico Robin on your ship assassinated Mr. Iceberg last night!!""Dare you say you didn't order it?!""What?!"Luffy clearly couldn't believe Robin would do such a thing."A opening!!"Bally took the opportunity to loop his rope around Luffy's arm, intending to swing him over and smash him to the ground. However, what came over was only Luffy's extended fist."..."Bally was silent, realizing it could be done that way."That's impossible! Robin isn't that kind of person!!"Luffy retorted."That's just the fact!!!"Bally replied, if long-range wouldn't work, then close combat!The other battles."Bang bang!!"The Forest Masked White Cloud drew the twin guns from his waist and fired. Their Straw Hat Pirates still had reserves of ordinary firearms and longswords.Blueno's bullets were blocked by the Forest Masked White Cloud, who intercepted them with his own bullets."What?!""Such exquisite marksmanship!"Even as an opponent, Blueno was surprised and impressed by the Forest Masked White Cloud's shooting skills.Swordsman against swordsman.Kaku was stopped by Zoro."You truly are an ill-mannered bunch!""Hurry up and come with us to apologize to Mr. Iceberg!!"The two clashed swords, Kaku glaring at Zoro as he spoke."Hmph, don't talk to me like you're some elder! (Kaku's speech was very old-fashioned)"Zoro disliked Kaku's tone, pushing hard to break their sword lock... Back to the Forest Masked White Cloud, he stood in front of Luffy and Bally, not allowing anyone to pass and disrupt Luffy and Bally's 1v1.Dalton came with an elbow strike, and the Forest Masked White Cloud chose to dodge sideways, but it wasn't just a simple dodge. He extended his leg for a move, "Even the gods stumble"!Dalton indeed fell for it, his body tilting forward. The Forest Masked White Cloud immediately extended his palm to brace his abdomen, but it wasn't just a simple brace either."Fish-Man Karate: Thousand Brick Fist!!"A punch exchanged for a palm strike, the power wasn't much less. The large Dalton was directly pushed back, retreating continuously.Lucci dodged past him and then attacked. The Forest Masked White Cloud maintained his pushing palm posture, blocking Lucci's punch."Good strength, Mr. Pigeon."The Forest Masked White Cloud mocked.But internally, he thought, So painful!! So painful!!After all, it was just a clone, and he used the worst physical technique to block it. Although Lucci was not as strong as Aokiji, he was still the boss of this encounter, wasn't he?"Who are you?"Lucci asked with his pigeon ventriloquism."I told you, I'm the Wish Genie.""I don't belong to any side; I belong to wishes. If someone has a wish, they come to me, and I'll help them."The Forest Masked White Cloud played dumb to the end.Lucci narrowed his eyes, then launched another offensive, every attack aimed at the half-face mask of the Forest Masked White Cloud.The Forest Masked White Cloud naturally wouldn't let him have his way, only dodging and not attacking, always narrowly missing Lucci's assaults."Damn it!! How embarrassing!!""Lucci, get out of the way!!"Dalton, holding a battleship cannon, with his monstrous strength, could fire it by hand, ignoring the recoil."Bang!!"The cannonball exploded towards them, but Lucci didn't dodge, holding onto the Forest Masked White Cloud to prevent him from escaping.Only when the cannonball was half a meter from them did Lucci release White Cloud, retreating instantly with inhuman speed to create distance.If the Forest Masked White Cloud used Skywalk, dodging wouldn't be an issue. However, he instantly vanished, leaving only his mask and cloak in the air. The cannonball flew directly past, heading towards Franky."What?!""What?!"Two exclamations of "what."One was Dalton's surprise at how the Forest Masked White Cloud had vanished.The other was Franky's gasp, his eyes wide, watching the cannonball fly towards him.Bang!!The cannonball exploded, engulfing Franky in thick smoke.And the Forest Masked White Cloud reappeared before his mask and cloak fell, but with his back to Lucci. He put on his mask, turned, and pulled his cloak into place, a truly cool display."Oh dear, one really needs to be careful when watching a show."The Forest Masked White Cloud fanned the flames.Lucci's gaze at him, however, grew more scrutinizing and wary. He hadn't seen how White Cloud had vanished just now.Yet, it was merely the Forest Masked White Cloud's trick of turning back into a bullet and then reappearing.
Chapter 448: I Can Satisfy You"Damn it!"The chaotic battle in front of Dock One was between the five foremen and the Straw Hat Pirates. Because Luffy and his crew were framed—though not entirely, as Robin and Satoru had indeed participated in the assassination attempt on Iceburg, but Satoru was wearing a mask and wasn't recognized.Franky hadn't really been provoked this time, so he was just watching obediently, but one must be cautious when watching a show.The cannonball Nergal Galette fired at Forest Mask Bai Yun was dodged, and it hit Franky directly.Nergal Galette knew Franky's temper, hence why he said "Damn it." He had just enraged a mad bull; it wouldn't be satisfied until it had rampaged everywhere...."Cough, cough!""Really, what a pitifully weak cannonball!!"As the thick smoke cleared, Franky's face was black—physically black, scorched by the explosion.Yet, he was smiling, revealing a mouthful of white teeth. His smile was never a good sign; when a pervert smiles, your fate is sealed."Franky, I didn't mean to!!""This has nothing to do with you, don't interfere!!"Nergal Galette tried to reason with a pervert."Ah!!"Franky weighed 200 pounds of iron, 199 of which were pure defiance."I don't care about what has to do with what; you fired a cannon at me, so I have to return the favor!!""Assembly complete!!"Franky raised his hands, revealing the holes in his palms (70mm caliber)."However, what I'm launching isn't a cannonball, but an air cannon.""Its speed can exceed the speed of the wind!!""Coup de Vent!!!"As the Coup de Vent erupted, alarm bells went off for everyone.Meanwhile, Forest Mask Bai Yun had long since repeated his old trick, turning into a bullet to shake off Lucci, arriving here to kick Pauly away, taking Luffy with him, telling Zoro to retreat, and then regrouping with Nami and the others.By now, the four of them were in a position where the Coup de Vent couldn't reach them.Franky's arms swelled up, and the powerful air bullets launched from the holes moved incredibly fast, almost instantaneously; however, because the alarm bells had rung, Pauly and the others still managed to dodge them.The Coup de Vent struck a lucky, gigantic sailing ship under repair behind them. It looked like that huge ship wouldn't be getting fixed anytime soon.Although no one was injured, the shockwave from the Coup de Vent blew the spectators over. If Namihadn't been held by Satoru and Zoro, she would have been knocked over too.The same went for Pauly and the others; even though they dodged the direct shot, the wind caused by the blast blew them through the air, slamming them into timber or the ground."What kind of guy is this, he can actually shoot cannons from his hands!"Watching the shipyard filled with flying wood chips, Nami couldn't help but marvel at Franky's strength."He's a cyborg. Just think of him as a human-shaped version of my bracelet; his body can turn into weapons, that's all.""I see..."Nami didn't quite understand."Let's not talk about that pervert.""Zoro, take Nami back first. We'll meet at the inn. Keep an eye out for those searching; go back only after they've left."Satoru arranged, and Zoro nodded."What about you and Luffy?"Nami asked."I think Luffy is very confused right now as to why Pauly and the others said Robin assassinated Iceburg."Satoru replied.Luffy nodded silently."Then I'll accompany you to find the person involved.""...""It's Iceburg himself.""Alright, let's go now!"Luffy realized, and immediately pulled Forest Mask Bai Yun away.Zoro & Nami: "...""Let's go too. We'll discuss countermeasures when they get back. What is all this mess! This time, we have to make that bastard Satoru spill everything he knows!!"Nami felt physically and mentally exhausted; there was such a mess of things.Zoro didn't speak, but nodded in agreement, signaling Nami to go first while he followed behind to cover the rear...."That's it, that's Iceburg's room."Satoru brought Luffy to a rooftop, pointing at the room in front and telling Luffy that it was Iceburg's room."You're very familiar with this, Satoru—ah, no, should I call you Forest Mask now? Ah, no, or wish spirit?!"Luffy's CPU nearly fried."It's fine, suit yourself, call me whatever."Forest Mask Bai Yun replied. It was really hard on Luffy to have to rack his brain just to figure out what to call him.As for the question about being familiar, Satorudidn't answer. Otherwise, he would have to tell Luffy that he and Robin had been there once before—that they were the ones who assassinated Iceburg."Let's go, let's find Iceburg."Satoru said. Luffy then familiarly climbed onto Satoru's back, looking just like Satoru was carrying a backpack.Satoru was used to it too. He stepped into the air, flying toward the opposite building, and kicked the window glass open to enter."What's happening?!""It's Straw Hat!!""What!! He dares to come back? He's so audacious in broad daylight!!""Catch him quickly!!""He's on the second floor, now running towards the third floor!!"The shipyard workers inside and the reporters outside hadn't expected a wanted criminal to be so blatant. The scene immediately turned chaotic.Chaos was exactly what he wanted. Satoruhurriedly took Luffy towards Iceburg's room. Just as he was about to push the door open, Kalifa came out."You!""Go in, Mr. Iceburg is inside."Luffy thought Kalifa would get angry, but to his surprise, she let them in directly. Satoru knew this was at Iceburg's instruction."Then thank you, Miss Secretary."After saying that, Satoru took Luffy into the room.Kalifa stayed outside to deal with the arriving shipyard workers...."Eek!!"Satoru and Luffy entered the room. Iceburg had already sat up on the bed, but the moment he saw the two, he was suddenly startled.Luffy asked, "What's wrong?""Nothing, seeing this masked person, I thought someone came to assassinate me again... It shouldn't be, right?"Iceburg said, his expression returning to normal.Satoru signaled for Luffy to get down, replying."I see, it's definitely not. I am a wish spirit,""However, if you need, I can satisfy you."Iceburg was silent for a few seconds, wondering if he had misheard."That won't be necessary.""Let's get back to business. Do you have something to ask me?""That's right, I'm here to figure out the truth!!"Luffy replied immediately."The truth?""I did see Nico Robin last night. Is she your comrade?""That is a fact.""Really?!"Luffy still refused to believe it.Iceburg pulled a handgun from behind his pillow, "Don't quibble anymore. I let you in to ask you for one thing."Is this your attitude when asking for a favor? You kneel down, "I beg you for a favor"?Satoru silently retorted in his heart.But the reality was very serious."Now, let me see Nico Robin one more time.""Can't do that, because I don't know where she is right now?"Luffy answered bluntly.Looking at his expression, Iceburg could tell he wasn't lying. He sighed and lowered the gun."You go. Believe it or not, the person I saw last night was indeed Nico Robin!"
