Chapter 541: Free?While Garp continued his loving grandfather-grandson time with Luffy, Satoru, who had slipped away, was actually going to look for Zoro. He didn't need to guess that Zoro was lost. Since he had already sneaked out to escape Old Man Garp's iron fist, he might as well find Zoro along the way."Not bad, not bad. Although I took a hit, I managed to replicate Old Man Garp's physique again. This is a life-saving trump card.""For the upcoming adventures... Ace should arrive tomorrow. If the Marineford War is averted, there won't be any need to use this trump card.""However, facing the New World with everyone's current strength is indeed tricky. What should I do...""Forget it. I'll contact the self currently with Acefirst."Satoru shared consciousness with the Main Body, but since they were in two different places, constantly sharing consciousness would confuse the mind. Therefore, the link was usually severed. When contact was needed, an Awareness Link would be established, and the Main Body would instantly absorb the memories the clone had accumulated over those days."It's... it's this way, Mr. Zoro!"Zoro encountered two scammers while looking for the way. After beating them up, the two men obediently led the way. But even with guides, Zorosometimes took the wrong turn, which completely baffled the two scammers. As a result, Garp and the others had arrived some time ago, but Zoro still hadn't shown up."That is... Satoru."On his way back, Zoro happened to run into Satoru, who had come out to look for him."Alright, you don't need to guide us anymore."Zoro immediately abandoned the two scammers."We're sorry!""We didn't expect to try scamming you."The citizens of Water Seven naturally knew about the Straw Hat Pirates who had saved the Mayor and held them in great respect, but not everyone knew what they looked like. After realizing it was Zoro, the two scammers, despite being thoroughly beaten, still proactively apologized to Zoro.Zoro replied while running toward Satoru, "Ah, it's fine, don't worry about it. Thanks for showing me the way, see you later."With Zoro's response, the two scammers felt relieved. But Zoro found it strange why Satoru was standing motionless and ignoring him.Even when Zoro arrived in front of him, Satoruremained standing, head bowed, and still."Satoru?"Zoro called out tentatively.Satoru's body suddenly tipped forward. Zoroimmediately caught him. "Satoru?! What's wrong with you?!"...At the same time Garp arrived at Water Seven.Satoru and Ace arrived at Destiny Crystal Island, the island next to Gourmet Town, which was one of the towns (Spring Queen Town, Gourmet Town, Carnival Town) served by the sea train.This island was rich in crystals, and the residents loved using crystals for divination, although their divination abilities varied greatly."Two young lads!""Take a look, these are newly processed, high-quality crystals, available in every color."Ai Baiyun and Ace came to the commercial street on Destiny Crystal Island to shop, but although they were shopping, their pockets were cleaner than their faces [they were broke].The two of them were best at accepting "gifts" from bosses.This boss proactively struck up a conversation with the two of them. One could only say... he was very lucky."Want to look?"Ai Baiyun asked.Ace put his hands behind his head. "Look if you want, but hurry up. I'd rather go to Gourmet Town.""You're right. Then I won't look either."Ai Baiyun straightened up, taking his gaze away from the crystals on the ground.The boss panicked. "Don't go! Young lads, how much time will this waste? How about I give you a discount?"Hearing the boss, Ai Baiyun smiled back. "Sure, how about a zero percent discount?"The boss froze for a moment. "Kid, are you trying to cause trouble?!"Ai Baiyun replied again, "I didn't bring a knife."The boss was confused again. What did that mean? What did "I didn't bring a knife" mean? Did he plan to rob him by force?!In the moment the boss was stunned, Ai Baiyun and Ace had already left. After walking around, they found the area was full of crystal sellers and fortune tellers, which held no appeal for two guys who loved to eat. The two were preparing to leave when an old beggar leaning against a wall in an alleyway called out to them."Two young brothers."Ai Baiyun and Ace turned to look. Ai Baiyun blurted out, "We don't have any money, old man.""Hahaha, I'm not begging, old man.""I'm not a beggar either; I'm just drunk and lying here for a bit.""The sky is my quilt, the earth is my bed. Isn't that very relaxed and comfortable?"High emotional intelligence: The sky is my quilt, the earth is my bed.Low emotional intelligence: Homeless."Then why did you call us, old man?"Ace asked.Just then, the wandering old man pulled out a crystal ball from his embrace.The old man himself was ragged and dirty, but the crystal ball was spotless, so clean it reflected light."I see destiny connects the two of you.""How about I give you two a free divination?""Free?"Ai Baiyun asked again.The wandering old man confirmed it firmly."Free!"Ai Baiyun cast an inquiring look toward Ace.Ace smiled. "Since it's free, let's give it a try."After scrutinizing the wandering old man, Ai Baiyunimmediately walked with Ace into the alley and stood opposite the old man."Mm, that's right. Destiny is truly wondrous.""Before the divination begins, can I ask, young brother, where did the jadeite gem on your neck come from?"The wandering old man's eyes were fixed intently on the heart of jade around Ace's neck.The moment the wandering old man spoke, Ai Baiyun understood: he was after the heart of jade.Ace, with his clear, foolish eyes, was about to answer that a kind person had given it to him, but Ai Baiyun answered first, "We picked it up.""Picked it up!"The wandering old man's tone instantly rose several pitches, but he immediately adjusted, narrowing his eyes as if observing carefully."Alas.""Interfering with someone else's destiny is usually a serious matter!""But, I see a great connection between me and you two young men!""I will risk it this one time and tell you...""Tell us what?"Ace was genuinely curious now."This gem, though precious, conflicts with both your fates. Continuing to wear it will only bring disaster and bloodshed!!"The wandering old man said excitedly.Ai Baiyun heard the familiar rhetoric; only a fool would believe it.Ace believed him, but his reaction was unusual. "Is that so? That's not bad. Does that mean we'll encounter many strong opponents? Then we can fight to our heart's content."The wandering old man was stunned. Was this kid's reaction correct? He was so arrogant!The wandering old man could only turn his hopes toward Ai Baiyun.Ai Baiyun's lips curled up. Cooperating with the performance, he spoke with a look of panic."What!""Old man, you said this jadeite gem is harmful to us?!""This priceless jadeite gem is harmful to us!?""This supreme treasure of the Lost Ancient Capital, the Capital of Jadeite, the heart of jade, is harmful to us!!?"One can only say, how exaggerated!Hearing this stream of words, the wandering old man realized that Ai Baiyun's earlier claim of "picking it up" was nonsense."So you kid knows your stuff!""Then why play tricks on this old man!""Wait! What did you say this gem was called
Chapter 542: The Legend of Emerald City"Wait, what did you say that gem is called?!!!"The wandering old man, who had been eyeing the emerald gems on Ai Baiyun and Ace, heard Satorusay the true name of the emerald gem was heart of jade.After hearing it was the heart of jade, the greatest treasure of the ancient lost city Emerald City, the old man's face instantly changed. His longing eyes and expression immediately turned into disgust and fear, 'Get away from me!!!'"It's called heart of jade.""What's wrong, old man?"Ace repeated innocently.Ai Baiyun noticed something was off, but he didn't say anything, waiting to hear what the old man would say first."That's right, heart of jade. What's wrong, old man?"The wandering old man pressed himself back fiercely, even though there was a wall behind him, as if he wanted to squeeze a hole through it."You two brats actually carry the evil gem, heart of jade, rumored to devour human souls!!! You're really courting death, not afraid of dying!!!!""You should know that the heart of jade was an item used for sacrifice in Emerald City.""Legend has it that the residents of Emerald Cityloved emerald gems to the point of obsession and madness.""Everything in the capital, whether it was the land, buildings, trees, etc., was made of emerald.""Legend has it that in ancient times, a group of people accidentally entered Emerald City. The residents of Emerald City welcomed them warmly and held a banquet. However, at night, as the Moonlight shone through, that group of people discovered that the bodies of the Emerald Cityresidents were all made of emerald! Under the Moonlight, their transparent, green-glowing bodies were absolutely terrifying and deadly!""And Emerald City became a thing of the past because of their wicked idea to spread the benefits of emerald bodies to the outside world, so they were jointly destroyed by various countries.""It is said that the City Lord, under the Moonlight, raised the heart of jade high and cursed the kings of the various nations who had come.""Emerald City shall never perish!""Your souls shall be eternally sealed!!""After this incident, within a month, the kings of those various countries all died suddenly, without a single external injury, just as the City Lord of Emerald City had said, their souls were sealed, never to be reborn!"The wandering old man was old and experienced, and he recounted the story of the ancient city, Emerald City, to Ai Baiyun and Ace.As for Ace and Ai Baiyun's reactions..."That City Lord was truly a man, a strong one. He avenged the entire city by himself.""Although the residents of Emerald City were wrong in promoting emerald bodies, that doesn't stop the City Lord from being a strong person."This was Ace's answer."The entire capital is made of emerald! How much money would that be!"This was Ai Baiyun's answer.The old man was completely baffled."Are your reactions correct, you two brats?!"Ai Baiyun crossed his arms and said, "History is written by the victors.""Ancient matters, old man, you've only heard about them, unless you... are an immortal.""Are you?"Ai Baiyun suddenly threw out a question. The old man was startled for a moment before immediately replying, "Immortal? It's more of a curse than a blessing.""This old man doesn't have that 'luck'.""No, why are we getting so sidetracked! What did you just say, kid? What about history being written by the victors?"Ai Baiyun replied, "Old man, you're not immortal, which means the story of Emerald City is also something you've heard, right?""That's right.""Then, whether the story about the Emerald Cityresidents going out to promote emerald bodies is true or not, we don't know.""You said they loved emeralds to the point of obsession and madness, so why would they actively promote them to others? Think about how many emeralds it would take to create an emerald body? Not to mention if they had enough, even if they did, would they be willing to give them to others if they loved them so much?""And then, let's talk about those kings who actively stepped forward to destroy Emerald City. Did they truly step forward selflessly, or was it for that entire capital made of emeralds, an immeasurable fortune?""Was it a cult being destroyed for its propaganda?""Or was it a false accusation to seize wealth due to greed?""As descendants, we should just listen.""Although this heart of jade does indeed have the function of transforming souls.""Satoru, what you said makes sense! As expected of you.""If Emerald City was really slandered, then I truly admire that City Lord."Ace replied.The wandering old man stroked his beard, "Hmm... I didn't expect you young lad to have such profound insights at such a young age. Not bad, it's certainly possible.""We are just small pebbles in the great wave of history. If we are not descendants of Emerald City, why bother to delve into the truth or falsehood?""Hmm... wait, what did you just say? This heart of jade really has the function of transforming souls!!!!"The old man's eyes popped out in fright, truly leaving an imprint of his body on the wall behind him.Ai Baiyun couldn't help but inwardly grumble, 'Your reaction time is way too slow.'"That's right, we are here to..."Ai Baiyun pulled on the heart of jade around Ace's neck, his face turning sinister.Ace was pulled, forcing him to stretch his neck forward to cooperate with Ai Baiyun."Mama mia!! This old man has wandered half his life and has nothing, and this soul is useless anyway!! Just spare me please!!"The wandering old man actually thought he had encountered descendants of Emerald City and quickly begged for mercy in fright."Hahahaha!!!"Then, the laughter of Ace and Ai Baiyun reached his ears."Hm?""What does this mean!? Is this your ritual before absorbing souls?""Hahahaha!!!""…""Alright!! You two scoundrels!! Playing tricks on this old man again, are you!! Don't you know how to respect your elders!!!"Ai Baiyun calmed his rapid breathing, which was caused by intense laughter."Haha... Old man, thank you for the entertainment. If there's nothing else, we'll be going now."Ace agreed; he wanted to go to Gourmet Town."Wait!!"The wandering old man called out to the two of them."Although I was indeed greedy for your... heart of jade just now, I wouldn't want it even if you gave it to me now!""And, although I initially had intentions, this old man still has abilities!""I dare say, on this Isle of Destiny Crystal, if my fortune-telling ability ranks second, no one would dare claim to be first!!""Oh♦ So the old man is also a recluse expert," Ai Baiyun replied, looking at the old man's dirty appearance, yet his crystal ball was spotless. Perhaps he really was a master diviner.
Chapter 543: Is Fate Immutable?The Crystal Island of Destiny is only separated from Water Seven by one Gourmet Town.Once Ai Baiyun and Ace reach Gourmet Town, they only need to take the sea train to arrive at Water Seven, a journey that would take at most one day.But that day, Ai Baiyun and Ace encountered a wandering old man on the island.After learning about the legend of Emerald Cityfrom the old man, they were about to leave when the old man stopped them, claiming that his fortune-telling ability was the best on the entire island."So?" Ai Baiyun asked."So, when I said we were fated earlier, I wasn't just spouting nonsense. Since we've met, it means we have a connection. How about I tell your fortunes?" the wandering old man replied, looking quite enthusiastic.But the only thing Ai Baiyun cared about was, "Is it free?""Free!" the old man replied decisively, thinking to himself whether he had already said that earlier.Almost at the same time the old man said it was free, Ai Baiyun replied, "Then let's start.""..." The old man was a bit speechless. You sure agree quickly when it's free."So how do we do this, old man?" Ace asked."It's simple. But, which one of you two boys is going first?" the old man countered, his gaze shifting back and forth between Ace and Ai Baiyun.Ai Baiyun and Ace exchanged a glance."You go ahead.""Then I'll go.""...""Hahaha, you two boys are quite in sync. So, who is actually going first?""I'll go," Ai Baiyun said, and Ace nodded in agreement.The old man also nodded. "Good, it's very simple. Look at this crystal, silently repeat the word 'fate' three times in your heart, then place your hand on the crystal." The old man explained the method of fortune-telling.Ai Baiyun raised an eyebrow and immediately followed the old man's instructions.After the process, the old man stared intently at the crystal ball, but the crystal ball didn't show any major reaction, like glowing or cracking.Ai Baiyun took his hand off. "So... is the result good or bad, old man?""This... young man, how old are you?"Asking for his age, that's never a good sign."17.""What a pity." (x2)"Huh?""How did you know what I was going to say?" (x2)Ai Baiyun was able to predict almost everything the old man said, which baffled the old man. "Are you the one telling fortunes or am I?!""Of course it's you, old man, it's just that I've heard these kinds of things a lot.""Heard them a lot? Then how are you still in one piece?""How should I put it? I heard the fortune-telling results of others, not mine.""Others'? Then you really are a jinx..." the old man muttered under his breath."What?" With Ai Baiyun and Ace's Observation Haki, it was impossible for them not to hear it, but Ai Baiyun just didn't call him out on it."Nothing.""Kid, I don't care if you believe me or not, but I'm giving you a friendly warning: you'd better be careful.""The result of the fortune-telling is that you have a major calamity coming up soon, the kind that will be life-threatening." The old man revealed the result.Ace frowned and looked at Ai Baiyun in silence.Ai Baiyun didn't show much emotional fluctuation. "Mhm, I understand. Thank you for the warning, old man.""Satoru..." Ace started. Ai Baiyun shook his head. "It's fine. It's your turn, Ace."The old man obliged and moved the crystal ball in front of Ace.Ace had no choice but to put his thoughts aside and perform the same actions the old man had described and that Ai Baiyun had just done."Tsk... strange. The fortune-telling results for you two boys... are exactly the same." The old man said after frowning."Does that mean we're both going to encounter a life-threatening calamity soon?" Ace asked.The old man nodded. "That's right.""But the strange thing is, even if it were death by the same person or the same method, the paths of two people would still be different.""But your paths are exactly the same, as if... as if you were the same person."This was a strange way to put it."The same person?""How could that be? Satoru and I are clearly two different people," Ace replied.The old man agreed with Ace. "Exactly, that's why it's so strange.""I don't know, I really don't know. It seems my skills aren't quite up to par.""However, let me tell you this: fate, fate cannot be changed...""Watch out!!" Before the old man could finish, Aceshoved him, causing the old man's crystal ball to roll out of his hands, and a bullet instantly flew through the spot where the crystal ball had just been.The whole thing happened in an instant.The old man panicked and immediately dove to the ground to catch his crystal ball. "My precious ball!!!"Meanwhile, Ai Baiyun took a step back with Ace and immediately drew the handgun he had "picked up" along the way, firing as he drew it.The bullet flew out, and from over there, another gunshot was heard; the Sniper on the other side used a bullet to intercept Ai Baiyun's shot."Zehahahaha!!!" At the same time, a familiar voice rang out.Ai Baiyun and Ace frowned instantly; they were all too familiar with that laughter."Blackbeard!!" "Teach!!"Blackbeard appeared at the other entrance of the alley with his crew.Jesus Burgess. Van Auger. Doc Q. And the one who wasn't there last time, Lafitte.This was Blackbeard's initial five-man crew."Zehahahaha, that's right, it's me! Marshall D. Teach, the man who will rule the seas!""Wehahaha, time for another good fight." Those were the words of that big oaf, Burgess.Van Auger and Doc Q remained silent, though Doc Q's horse, Stronger, let out a sound—a half-dead sort of sound.Lafitte twirled his cane, wearing a fake, insincere smile. "So this is the person who cut off the Captain's left hand? But he looks... so gentle."Mentioning the severed left hand, the expression on Blackbeard's face instantly turned sinister, and his eyes were filled with murderous intent as he looked at Ai Baiyun. Satoru hadn't just cut it off; he had taken the hand with him, completely eliminating any possibility of his left hand being restored.Yes, don't forget, Blackbeard's left hand had been cut off by Satoru. Now, he was wearing a black coat, and his left sleeve hung empty."Teach!! You've finally shown yourself!!" Seeing Blackbeard, Ace's emotions instantly became unstable."Zehahahaha, my dear Captain, are you looking for me? I've been looking for you too!""To get the position of Shichibukai, I need a bargaining chip. I was originally going to go find that Straw Hat, but I didn't expect to run into you guys here.""What a coincidence.""Since that's the case, Captain Ace, your identity is enough to serve as a bargaining chip!""Zehahahaha."Hearing Blackbeard's words, Ai Baiyun's brows knit together tightly. It was just a coincidental encounter.Could it be that fate really cannot be changed?!!Thinking this, Ai Baiyun warned the old man to run quickly, as a fierce battle here was inevitable."Old man..." However, when Ai Baiyun looked, the old man had already run off and was nowhere to be seen.He had been too focused on Blackbeard and his crew just now and hadn't paid attention to the old man.
Chapter 544"I will chase him to the ends of the earth!"The wandering fortune-teller slipped away, so Ai Baiyun turned his full attention to Blackbeard and his crew.But in Ai Baiyun's mind, he kept replaying the old man's words: "Fate cannot be changed..."Looking at the Blackbeard Pirates who had appeared of their own accord, was this what it meant that fate could not be changed?Right, even if we don't go looking for them, that doesn't mean they won't come looking for us!Besides, according to Blackbeard, it was a coincidence!A coincidence!A coincidence!!To hell with the coincidence!!..."What did you say? Luffy! You're going to capture Luffy?!"Ace didn't care at all about Blackbeard wanting to capture him as a bargaining chip; he was only concerned about the Luffy that Blackbeard had just mentioned."That's right, Straw Hat Luffy. What, do you know him?""Then again, you already know Copy cat Satoru, so of course you'd know Straw Hat. I think I heard you mention him while we were on the ship before, but I don't really care about such boring things, so I forgot as soon as I heard it.""You have no idea, Straw Hat has done something huge!""Zehahaha, burning the World Government flag! Causing a scene at Enies Lobby, Enies Lobby is already a thing of the past now!""A bounty of 300 million!!""And that Copy cat Satoru with you, a bounty of 291 million!!""Each one of you is a fine bargaining chip."Blackbeard replied, looking very arrogant, treating all three brothers as bargaining chips.Upon hearing this, Ace laughed loudly, "Hahahaha, so you guys were secretly doing such big things, Satoru.""300 million and 200... how much was it? Oh well, it doesn't matter, it's a huge improvement anyway, you're almost catching up to me!" (Ace's bounty is 550 million)Ace was in the mood to laugh, but Ai Baiyun was not. With the strength of his clone, it would be difficult to deal with Blackbeard. Would the Marineford War ultimately happen? Was fate truly unchangeable?Unchangeable my ass!"Ace, you go first! I'll hold them off!"Ai Baiyun stood in front of Ace.Given his personality, Ace naturally disagreed, "Impossible, we can't just leave you behind!!""Don't forget what I said!!"Ai Baiyun roared directly; he had to!What he wanted Ace not to forget was the stuff he had told him earlier about the Marineford War, and what he had told Ace when they were kids: if a comrade or family member stands in front of you to let you go, you go! Don't end up in a situation where neither of you can leave!!This was the first time Satoru had roared at him, and Ace was stunned for a moment, "I'm just a clone! Think of the big picture! Don't forget Blackbeard's ability!!"Ai Baiyun roared first, then persuaded.Ace was struggling internally. Even though he knew Ai Baiyun was just a clone, after spending so many days together, he couldn't bring himself to abandon him and leave alone. But looking at the big picture, sacrificing one clone of Satoru to let Ace escape was the best outcome!"Zehahaha, that's right, it was through the newspapers that I learned your Main Body, Copy cat Satoru, was staying with Straw Hat!""Otherwise, if you and Captain Ace were together, we would have to think twice before making a move!""But now, you're just a clone who can't even beat a Marine Vice Admiral, what are you going to use to fight me!!""I'm going to rip off all your limbs, starting with the clone! Then the real person!!""Attack!!""Go!!"At Blackbeard's command, Burgess, Van Auger, Doc Q, and Lafitte attacked simultaneously.Hearing Ai Baiyun's command to go, Ace bit his lower lip until it bled, then turned and ran.Blackbeard wore a sinister expression. Run? It's not going to be that easy to get away!With Ai Baiyun entangled by the four of them, he could just go and chase Ace himself...."Strong Elbow!!""Poison Sickle: Slash!""Falling Feather Slash!""Bang!"The four members of the Blackbeard Piratessurrounded him.Burgess charged with a frontal elbow strike.Doc Q rode his horse from the left, swinging his poison-coated scythe down.Lafitte sprouted wings, took to the air, and thrust his cane sword down rapidly.And Auger sniped from a distance.If it were still the Satoru from that night in Mock Town, he would still look down on these four.But he was now just the clone Ai Baiyun, and such a coordinated attack had reached a lethal level.However, Satoru was no longer a novice at fighting, and his clone was the same.Ai Baiyun held a blade in his right hand and a gun in his left.He fired two shots from the pistol, intercepting Auger's bullets.Then, with the blade in his right hand, he slashed toward Doc Q, who was approaching from the left, shouting, "Hagoku!"Therefore, he had no choice but to take Lafitte and Burgess's attacks head-on.First, his collarbones were pierced by Lafitte, causing bloody holes, and then he was sent flying, spitting blood, from Burgess's elbow strike.Dragging his blade along the ground, Ai Baiyunfinally managed to stop his momentum.The double pain made him grit his teeth.The Devil Fruit Ability Ai Baiyun had chosen was the Dark-Dark Fruit.That was why he had chosen to block the attacks from Auger and Doc Q.As mentioned before, the Dark-Dark Fruit could convert physical pain into mental pain, thereby allowing his injuries to heal.However, toxins and such external substances could not be converted, or rather, the conversion speed was slower than the speed at which the poison took effect. That was why Blackbeard was taken down by Magellan's Venom-Venom Fruit in one hit; it was also at that moment that Blackbeard learned that poison damage could not be converted."The wounds are gone.""It must be our Captain's ability."Lafitte said."How clever, here's a reward...""Black Hole!"Black smoke poured out of Ai Baiyun's body, and he pressed his palms against the ground, spreading the darkness.Seeing this, the four of them immediately jumped onto the buildings.However, just as the darkness spread a little bit, Ai Baiyun pulled back his palms and turned to run, heading to find Ace; that dog Blackbeard had already chased after him."Hey! He ran away!!"Burgess said in surprise."We can all see that!"Lafitte replied."Compared to last time, this was really simple. You're so lucky, Lafitte!"Doc Q said while coughing up blood.And Auger, with his scope fixed on Ai Baiyun's back, only said."Fate...""Hurry and chase!"...While Ai Baiyun was fighting Blackbeard's four subordinates.Ace, who had chosen to prioritize the big picture, was still intercepted by Blackbeard, and the two arrived at a square on the island."It's been a long time since we last met, why are you running away as soon as we meet! Captain!!""Zehahaha!!"Looking at Blackbeard's appearance, Ace couldn't help but clench his fists, "Teach..."Blackbeard noticed this. After all these years, he understood Ace; a young, hot-headed lad who couldn't hide his emotions! This could be exploited!!"It's me, Teach!""Before long, this name will be known throughout the world!""For the sake of my great ambition, Captain, you are an indispensable bargaining chip.""However, Captain, you are free to go, of course. But then my bargaining chip will shift to Straw Hat. He has a connection to you, right?""If I switch to him, I will chase him to the ends of the earth! Zehahaha!!"
Chapter 545: He Is My Brother!!"If it were him, I'd chase him to the ends of the earth! Zehahaha!!""What a pity. I originally wanted to invite you, Captain Ace, to join us, but you're connected to Copy cat Satoru and Straw Hat Luffy.""However, you could always abandon them and join us!!""To conquer the world! There's nothing I wouldn't give up!!"Blackbeard didn't know the relationship between Ace and Luffy, but whatever it was, it could be exploited.The goal was to provoke Ace into fighting him, not to let him escape. Honestly, with Ace's strength, if he fought while trying to flee, even the current Blackbeard couldn't guarantee keeping him 100%.But what Blackbeard didn't expect was that instead of getting angry, Ace let out a mocking laugh."Satoru and Luffy are both my brothers.""Someone like you would never understand, Teach.""And,""Do you dare? Ti... Blackbeard!"The change in address meant Ace had completely severed any remaining ties with Blackbeard. After all, he wanted to harm his brothers, so what friendship was left to speak of?"Do you dare go after Luffy? With you having lost a hand to Satoru, do you dare go now!!""Aren't you afraid you'll end up with no hands at all!!"Instead of provoking someone, he was the one provoked.Hearing Ace's words, Blackbeard's face instantly darkened.He didn't dare?In his heart, he truly didn't dare right now. No! It wasn't that he didn't dare, but that he wasn't in a hurry!! Biding his time for revenge later was Blackbeard's style, not rushing into things.But right now, he indeed needed bargaining chips to become one of the Shichibukai.Currently, Luffy and Satoru were together. On this route, the only two qualified to be chips were them, but with the premise of having his hand cut off by Satoru, Blackbeard hesitated, afraid of the consequences.Therefore, the Ace before him was the only chance! Otherwise, he'd have to go to places like the Sabaody Archipelago to find other pirates qualified to be chips and whom he could afford to provoke now!The only chance!Without another word, Blackbeard attacked. "Dark Water!"Black smoke billowed from his entire body, a black hole appeared in his right palm, and a powerful suction force erupted.Ace lost his footing and was instantly pulled in. The moment Blackbeard's palm touched his chest, Acecould indeed feel the connection to his Mera Mera no Mi power severed. Before, a single thought would summon flames, but now, no matter how hard he concentrated, it was useless."Zehahaha, this is the power of the Dark-Dark Fruit!!""That bastard Copy cat Satoru must really want to replicate this ability...""Urgh!"While Blackbeard was speaking, Ace stabbed him in the left chest, near the armpit, with a dagger. The Dark-Dark Fruit only made the contacted devil fruituser lose their ability, not completely immobilize them. Without his Devil Fruit Ability, there were still weapons. Even without weapons, there was the most primitive attack method—punching the hell out of him."As Satoru said, you talk too much. Be careful of dying from too much talk!"Pain flooded Blackbeard's mind. He slammed Ace to the ground and kicked him away.Then he pulled the dagger from his chest. "It hurts so much!!"Blackbeard howled in pain, but the knife wound on his chest slowly repaired itself, as if time were reversing.As soon as the fight broke out, the spectating residents instantly scattered. Watching the drama was fine, but danger was not.The residents scattering was actually better. Acewas afraid of hurting them, but Blackbeard couldn't care less.This way, Ace could also fight more freely.Ace got up. He didn't have Blackbeard's Dark-Dark Fruit conversion and recovery ability. After those two hits from Blackbeard, he was already bleeding from the corner of his mouth.Seeing the wound on Blackbeard's chest disappear, Ace began to understand why Satoru was so wary of him."Fire Gun!"Ace raised his index and middle fingers on both hands, pointing them like guns at Blackbeard, firing a rapid barrage of small flame bullets from his fingertips."Parlor tricks!"Blackbeard still faced him with the black hole in his palm. All the flame bullets Ace fired were swallowed.Ace narrowed his eyes, scrutinizing. He raised his hand again in the gun gesture. Blackbeard smirked, thinking Ace was still stubborn, and continued facing him with the black hole in his palm."Fire... Fist!!"But unexpectedly, Ace changed his attack mid-way, clenching all his fingers into a fist. A giant Fire Fistcame flying.The black hole couldn't absorb it. Blackbeard was directly engulfed in flames, rolling on the ground in pain."Ah! Ah!! Ah!!!"Black smoke swallowed the flames. Blackbeardstood up again, truly without a trace of injury on his body."Satoru knows your ability very well. He told me everything, Blackbeard. Don't think you've already won!!"Satoru had told Ace.The Dark-Dark Fruit could absorb Devil Fruit Abilityattacks, but only on a small scale, like Ace's flame bullets just now. Large-scale attacks like the Fire Fist couldn't be absorbed.However, the specific absorption capacity depended on the size of the black hole."Satoru can see (the future)... He thinks too absolutely. Knowing your weakness, I don't necessarily have to lose."Ace took off his hat, hung it around his neck onto his back, and assumed an attacking stance.He spoke with great confidence."Who is he?!""Just who is he?!!"Blackbeard roared ferociously.The "he" he referred to naturally meant Satoru."Why does he know so much about the Dark-Dark Fruit!!""And his ability seems tailor-made to counter the Dark-Dark Fruit!""Who exactly is he!!?"Here, Blackbeard was referring to his fight with Satoru in Mock Town, where Satoru's ever-changing bracelet always managed to block his hands perfectly.Moreover, the Dark-Dark Fruit hadn't appeared in the world for a long time. Unless one possessed a Devil Fruit Encyclopedia, few would know about it.Blackbeard had seen the Encyclopedia. The description of the Dark-Dark Fruit in the Devil FruitEncyclopedia wasn't that detailed. What he knew, he had pieced together bit by bit over many years.How did Satoru know so clearly?"He is my brother!!""Fire Fist!!"Ace attacked again.Blackbeard wasn't foolish enough to stand there and get hit. He dodged the Fire Fist."Dark Water!"While dodging, the suction force from the black hole in Blackbeard's hand erupted again, pulling Acetowards him.Having experienced this move once, Ace wouldn't just wait to be hit."Sacred Flame: Unknowing Fire!"Ace's hands transformed into flames. As he flew forward, he shaped the flames into a long spear and hurled it at Blackbeard. The flame spear pierced through Blackbeard and instantly ignited.Gritting his teeth and enduring the intense pain, Blackbeard kicked Ace back. Why not use his hand? Because he didn't have a free hand anymore."Huff! Huff! Huff!"Ace was kicked down.Blackbeard stood, but he was panting heavily, his forehead covered in sweat—a result of the mental strain and damage."So what if you know the Dark-Dark Fruit's weakness?""How many hits can you take, Captain Ace!!""And there's an even greater power of the Dark-Dark Fruit that you haven't seen yet!!"
Chapter 546: Fate Can Be Changed!!"And, there's an even more powerful force of the Dark-Dark Fruit that you haven't seen yet!!""Revolving Hagoku!!!"Just as Blackbeard was speaking confidently, Ai Baiyun's voice came from behind him. Blackbeardwas startled and immediately turned around to look, but saw no one.He looked up and saw Satoru descending from the sky in a spin, his long blade charged with power, bringing down a Hagoku strike.Slash attacks cannot be absorbed by a black hole, and Blackbeard was missing an arm, so he could only dispel the black hole in his hand, harden his Armament Haki, and punch upwards, meeting Ai Baiyun's blade.With a loud bang, the ground beneath Blackbeard's feet cracked."Now's our chance!!""Cross Fire!!"Ace crossed his two index fingers to form a cross, then shot a cross-shaped beam of light from his fingers, aiming at Blackbeard. Following the cross-shaped light, a huge cross-shaped flame erupted towards Blackbeard.Blackbeard felt the attack from behind and his eyes widened. He forcefully punched, pushing Ai Baiyunaway.He wanted to dodge, but it was too late!The Cross Fire branded his back, then burned fiercely, making Blackbeard roll on the ground again in pain.Seeing this, Ai Baiyun raised his sword and struck.The blade magnified in Blackbeard's eyes, about to strike down, when bullets flew in, hitting the blade. The immense power shook the long blade from Ai Baiyun's hand.Naturally, these were Auger's bullets.The four also rushed over.As Auger's bullets knocked Ai Baiyun's long blade away, Lafitte, with wings on his back, arrived first, stabbing his cane-sword at Ai Baiyun, aiming directly for his skull."Death Interrogation!!"Ai Baiyun's Observation Haki alarm blared. He exploded with air pressure from his feet, sliding backward along the ground.Lafitte's sword thrust missed, landing on the ground in front of Blackbeard's head.Blackbeard was scared half to death."Be careful!!! Lafitte!!!""Hehehe, Captain, aren't you fine?"Lafitte maintained his fake smile towards everyone."Zehahahaha, who said I'm fine? It hurts like hell.""However, no matter how much it hurts, getting a bargaining chip is worth it, Zehahahaha!!!"Ai Baiyun and Ace regrouped.The Blackbeard Pirates regrouped.The two groups confronted each other again. Ai Baiyun also understood that it was impossible for him to stop four people alone, but if one or two more were to split off, it would be troublesome for Ace to leave, and Blackbeard's suction was most problematic for devil fruit users trying to escape.Therefore, the best method right now is... to stall for time!!!Ai Baiyun sent a consciousness link to his Main Body in Water 7.Here, Satoru, who was looking for Zoro, instantly received the message and quickly flew towards Destiny Crystal Island.Since he planned to stall for time, Ai Baiyun began to act.First, he closed his eyes and took a deep breath, then opened them, his eyes changing from apprehension and urgency to disdain and mockery.Blackbeard, who was about to make a move, noticed this look and stopped."Long time no see, Blackbeard."Ai Baiyun spoke with a very contemptuous demeanor.Blackbeard hated this tone."Satoru?""No! This is your clone! So it is you!!""You're trying to trick me, aren't you!""Is it that hard to transfer consciousness to a clone?""Just as you said, we are essentially one person."Ai Baiyun replied."You're so amazing, Satoru."Ace believed him first.Ai Baiyun put his hands on his hips."Of course, I'm very amazing."Blackbeard couldn't stand their behavior."Enough!! Are you two pretending I don't exist!?""Satoru! So what if your Main Body's consciousness comes?!""Can your strength reach here?!""Even if it can! I won't run today!!""Let's fight to the death! Zehahahaha!! This is what a pirate is!!!"Ai Baiyun had to admit that although Blackbeardwas a traitor and would stop at nothing, his spirit was indeed that of a true pirate, a ruthless hero who would 'betray all under heaven' for his dream of ruling the seas.Before, when he spoke about dreams, Satoruthought he was a positive character.Unexpectedly, that was the meeting between Luffyand Blackbeard, two individuals destined to be each other's ultimate opponents."Attack!!"Blackbeard spoke again, and the four behind him attacked together again.Ai Baiyun didn't expect Blackbeard to have such spirit. His plan to stall for time had failed; he could only rely on fighting."I'll go?"Ai Baiyun and Ace stood back to back, surrounded by the four.The words "I'll go" were spoken by Ace.Ai Baiyun's answer was."It would be best if you could leave, but it looks a bit difficult.""Hold on until I arrive."Ace nodded, "Okay!"..."Damn it!!"Upon reaching the shore of Water 7, Satoru realized the problem.That direction leads to Destiny Crystal Island!!?Even if he could take the sea train to Gourmet Town next to Crystal Island, without a log pose, he wouldn't know where Crystal Island was! Moreover, the sea train's speed was too slow compared to flying himself!!..."He's recovered again!""Seeing Captain in pain like a tortured prisoner, yet you don't utter a sound, truly... a tough guy."Lafitte, Doc Q, and Burgess ganged up on Ai Baiyun.Blackbeard was still fighting Ace one-on-one.Auger provided long-range assistance, his choice depending entirely on his mood.The 15-minute Dark-Dark Fruit power cutoff was ticking away. If time ran out, dealing with these three would be even harder; he might even die.Not only that, at this moment, Ai Baiyun received a message from his Main Body saying that it couldn't pinpoint the exact location of Crystal Island.Was this truly a dead end!!?Ai Baiyun looked at Ace fighting Blackbeard. Could Ace's fate truly be unchangeable!?The moment despair surged, Ai Baiyun glimpsed something. Suddenly, a plan formed in his mind, and it was the only feasible one!"Death Interrogation!!"Lafitte lunged forward, but Ai Baiyun didn't dodge at all. The long sword pierced Satoru, and the double pain almost made Ai Baiyun lose consciousness.Lafitte also didn't expect Ai Baiyun to be so direct!Ai Baiyun naturally wouldn't take a stab for nothing. He clenched his fist and smashed it into Lafitte's abdomen."Fish-Man Karate: Arabesque Tile Punch!"The low-level Fish-Man Karate combined with the clone's strength didn't inflict much damage on Lafitte, so Ai Baiyun quickly changed his fist into a hand-blade after punching."Hagoku!!"Two impacts later, Lafitte's defense finally broke, and he was sent stumbling backward with the sword still in him.Although it was pulled out instantly, the pain didn't disappear instantly.But Ai had no time to deal with the pain.He turned and ran towards Ace.Doc Q threw bomb apples, and Ai Baiyun raised his gun, shooting them out of the air.How to distinguish which one is a bomb apple?Just shoot all of them.Burgess blocked his path, charging with an elbow strike.Seeing this, Ai Baiyun stepped and flew up, performing a backflip over Burgess by stepping on his elbow."Ace!!"Ai Baiyun shouted loudly to get Ace's attention.Ace didn't know what Ai Baiyun was going to do, but since Ai Baiyun was coming, regrouping with him was the right thing to do.The two met. Ace was about to speak when he saw Ai Baiyun grab the heart of jade around his neck, then pull his own hand to press it against the heart of jade as well.Instantly, green light burst forth!Blackbeard and his crew didn't know what happened, but the green light was so blinding they couldn't open their eyes.When the green light faded, Blackbeard and his crew looked at Ace and Ai Baiyun, but nothing seemed to have changed.At this moment, Ace said, "Fate can be changed!!"
Chapter 547: As Long As He Doesn't DieThe heart of jade erupted with green light, and Aceand Ai Baiyun swapped souls.Therefore, the Main Body Satoru in Water Sevenprepared to return to the house after thinking of this soul-swapping method, as he couldn't leave his body outside.But the transfer began midway, causing him to stand foolishly on the roadside after his soul was pulled, because the heart of jade's soul transfer involves the entire soul, not just the small consciousness of the clone.Since the soul is complete, he is simply called Satoru instead of Ai Baiyun.Satoru and Ace swapped bodies.Thus, currently Ace is Satoru, and Satoru is Ace.For distinction, the name written refers to the soul... "Destiny can be changed!!"Satoru clenched his fist and muttered softly.Just as Ace was about to speak, Satoru immediately punched him. It was his own body, so the punch felt quite natural."Ugh...""Zehahaha, what? Why are you two good brothers fighting among yourselves!"Although Blackbeard was very curious about the green light that had just erupted, he found it even funnier to see the two suddenly turn on each other.Ace didn't understand. Why did Satoru swap souls with him? And now... was he stopping him from talking?Satoru took off the heart of jade, placed it in Ace's hand, and said."Go find me in Water Seven, we'll discuss the rest later!""Go!!"Since abilities transfer with the soul, the Satorucurrently residing in Ace's body is the Main BodySatoru, who can freely use the Replication FruitAbility.But it was daytime, and there were no powerful trump cards left to use, except for Garp's physique, which he had just replicated. To be safe and avoid being exposed, Satoru still urged Ace to leave first!Ace listened this time and left immediately, but to Blackbeard and his crew, it looked like Satoru had run away."Flame Commandment!"With the Replication Fruit, it was trivial for Satoru to replicate Ace's Flame devil fruit.After Ace ran past, Satoru released a large sheet of flames, creating a huge wall of fire to isolate Blackbeard and his crew. Of course, they could try to force their way through, as long as they weren't afraid of getting burned."Zehahaha, abandoned by your brother, Captain Ace!""Or is he going to call for reinforcements? Is the Captain confident he can hold out until then?!"The five members of the Blackbeard Pirates slowly formed a circle, surrounding Satoru."I should be the one saying that, Blackbeard.""Are you confident you can defeat me?!""This was originally a grudge between our Whitebeard Pirates, and it has nothing to do with Satoru!""We both want to capture the other! So let's see who has the skill!"After speaking, Satoru used the replicated Garp's physique and actively moved forward to attack. But since it was daytime, the replication only lasted for 30 minutes!..."Satoru..."Ace kept running while looking at his hands, which were, of course, Satoru's hands."Satoru... these hands are quite soft.""Wait! What am I thinking!!""He's now dealing with Blackbeard and his crew alone, but... he's using my body? How does that work? Ah! I'm confused! I'm confused! I'll just get to Water Seven first!"Although Ace didn't understand Satoru's intentions, having lived with him since childhood, he trusted Satoru's judgment and actions. Besides, now that he had run out, he couldn't possibly run back!...Returning to Water Seven.Zoro originally saw Satoru and planned to just have Satoru lead him back—surely Satoru wouldn't get lost, right?But when he arrived in front of Satoru, Satoru fell straight down like a statue. Zoro immediately caught him. He had no idea what was happening. No matter how he called out, Satoru gave no response.Having no choice, Zoro could only pick up Satoru, call back the two liars from before to guide him, and finally return to the Pirate House... "Hmm?""Someone's outside.""You are... Huh? What happened to Satoru?"When Garp saw Zoro return, he originally planned to have Koby and Helmeppo stop him, but upon seeing Zoro holding Satoru, he immediately changed what he was about to say."Yeah, what happened to Satoru?!""Why did Long Hair faint?!"Koby and Helmeppo were quite worried when they saw Satoru had fainted, as they were old acquaintances.Zoro found it strange. Who are you guys?Ignoring them, he carried Satoru into the room, going through the hole Garp had punched.Seeing that Satoru had fainted, everyone gathered around."Satoru!!""Long-Haired Man!""Mosshead, what happened to Satoru?""..."With so many people surrounding him and asking questions, and Koby and Helmeppo also following up behind, Zoro kept a straight face. "I don't know. I found him on the road. When I went up to greet him, he just fell straight down.""That's so strange?""Zoro, Zoro! Hurry and put Satoru down, I'll check on him."Chopper beckoned Zoro to put Satoru on the bed... "Hmm... pulse is steady, breathing is steady...""Satoru... is very healthy."This was Chopper's diagnosis.Everyone gathered around the bed."Hahahaha, did Satoru learn the old man's sleeping ability too? I remember he was the only one of you three who couldn't do it."Garp was referring to the ability to sleep anywhere, anytime, with his head tilted back and bubbles coming out of his nose.He thought Satoru was asleep, although he certainly looked like he was sleeping."Sleeping?""Impossible! How could someone sleep so soundly!"Nami refuted."Look how good his complexion is, he doesn't look like anything is wrong. He was like this when he was little. What's there to worry about? As long as he doesn't die, it's fine."Garp's parenting philosophy.Everyone was speechless.Nami recalled an instance on Long Ring Islandwhere the same thing happened. Could this be the same situation?Last time Satoru woke up fine, so they might as well wait and see."Vice Admiral Garp is right, Satoru doesn't look like anything is wrong. You guys shouldn't worry too much.""Yeah, there's no way this guy would just die like this. It shouldn't be possible."Koby and Helmeppo spoke up again.Only then did everyone notice them."Speaking of which, who are you two? Judging by what you said, it sounds like you know Satoru?"Sanji asked.Luffy nodded, "Yeah, who are you guys?"Zoro leaned against the wall, furthest from everyone, and cast a scrutinizing gaze."Puhahaha, not only did we not get to spar, but we were forgotten!"Garp laughed until tears streamed from his eyes.Koby and Helmeppo didn't mind."That's right, Koby, do you remember? Luffy."Luffy sat on the chair by the bed, looking at Kobynext to Garp opposite him. Hearing this only made him more confused. He recalled Koby's round chin and appearance wearing round glasses. How was this the same? He tilted his head and replied."Koby? I have a friend named Koby, but he's short."Koby's expression was calm, and he smiled. "I am that Koby, the one who cried a lot and couldn't do anything."His self-awareness was quite clear.Luffy's eyes widened in surprise, and his tongue stuck out. "Really?!"
Chapter 548: Just Pretend I Didn't Say ThatSatoru's Main Body was missing its soul, leaving only a shell.Zoro brought him back after encountering him. After Chopper diagnosed him, it seemed Satoru was just sleeping? Since they had no other choice, everyone decided they could only wait and see.While waiting, Luffy and Zoro recognized Koby after his self-introduction, recognizing the 'great makeover' he had undergone... "You're that Koby? Why are you on the Grand Line?"Even the usually cold Zoro showed an expression of surprise at Koby's transformation."Although I'm still far from becoming a Flag Officer, (Koby is currently a Staff Sergeant) I heard you were nearby, and I absolutely had to come and see you.""I owe my current position to both of you."After speaking, Koby raised his hand in a salute—a Marine saluting pirates.Helmeppo also found an opening to interject, "I wonder what your current skill level is like, I really want to spar with you.""It's hard to explain everything that's happened over the years, but we are both currently stationed at Marineford, directly under Vice Admiral Garp's command."Koby added.Luffy, however, didn't care at all that Koby had become his grandfather's subordinate; he was still reeling in surprise."I see, but you grew up way too fast! You scared me!""You used to be plump and chubby."Koby rubbed the back of his head sheepishly."Hahaha, yeah, the change is quite significant.""Since the Enies Lobby incident just passed, you must all be exhausted. I apologize for visiting at such a time.""It's fine, we're friends. Let's eat together later."Luffy replied with a smile. In his view, good friends should always share a meal."Wait a minute!! What about me! I'm here too!! Why are you ignoring me!!"Helmeppo had been overlooked.He shouted excitedly, causing Luffy and Zoro to finally look at him.Luffy declared, "I don't know you. Who are you?"Zoro echoed, "Who are you?""It's me! It's me!""The answer is Helmeppo! Captain Morgan's son, Helmeppo!""I'm the one who tied you and Long-Haired Satoruto the execution platform back then! Roronoa Zoro!!"Helmeppo spoke excitedly, even pulling down the sunglasses on his eyes.Luffy and Zoro thought hard, and as they thought, they tilted their heads, clearly failing to recognize him.Helmeppo couldn't believe it."Hey! You still haven't remembered?!""I'm that useless son who relied on his dad's prestige!!"When he put it that way, Luffy and Zoro finally remembered—the guy with the butt chin."Ah! It's you."At that recognition, Helmeppo cried, "These two really haven't forgiven me, Koby!!"Koby responded, "There's nothing we can do, Helmeppo. You have to pay the price for what you did in the past.""However, maybe Satoru has forgiven you. He's gentler."Satoru thought: I haven't, and I'm not, ha. Although I don't exactly hate this butt chin, I initially just found him... funny."Alright, is the small talk over?""You guys, go fix the wall."Garp commanded the Soldiers outside."Ah! How can you say that!!""If that's what you wanted, why did you smash it in the first place?!"As a leader, Garp cannot be said to be lenient; his subordinates respect him, but they also dare to refute his unreasonable demands."Because it's cooler to enter that way."Garp replied while picking his nose.The wall seemed to ask, 'Can I curse?'"You can't smash the wall just for that reason! We'll fix it now, but you have to help."These were the exact words of Garp's subordinate Soldier."Ah! Fine."..."Dong! Dong!"The Soldiers were responsible for carrying planks, sweeping, and repairing the outside, while Garprepaired the wall inside. Calling it 'repair' was generous; he was just sitting on the ground hammering nails."Your grandfather is quite remarkable."Sanji commented upon seeing this scene. Remarkable in what way? Well... in every way, perhaps... Luffy replied, "I don't know anything about his work."Is it that he doesn't know? He truly knows nothing, not even that his grandfather is a figure known as a marine hero.It's a good thing he's Luffy; if it were anyone else, they would have countered immediately with, "My grandpa is Garp!"...Garp, who was hammering nails, suddenly remembered something and turned to ask Luffy, "Right, Luffy, I heard you met your father."Luffy has never seen Dragon's face since he was old enough to remember things."Huh? Dad?""Who is my dad?""I have a dad?"If Satoru were conscious, he could only say, 'Yes, but not completely, it's almost like you don't have one.'Garp started picking his nose again. "What? So he didn't show his face?""He said he saw you off at Loguetown.""He should have met that kid Satoru.""He said that kid Satoru is a bold person, and with him by your side, he could feel more at ease."This made everyone in Loguetown at the time confused."Loguetown..."Zoro muttered."Luffy's dad was there at that time, and he even met Satoru?"This was Sanji speaking.Even though he had never known his father, and now his grandfather brought him up, Luffy showed no emotional fluctuation whatsoever."What kind of person is my dad?""Satoru knows him?""I'm curious about Luffy's dad too."Nami said. She thought Luffy was... amazing, and naturally became curious about his father.Garp continued hammering nails and picking his nose, carelessly speaking Dragon's name."Your father's name is 'Monkey D. Dragon,' and he is a Revolutionary."As soon as this statement was made, everyone inside and outside the house seemed to explode, letting out a sky-high "Ehhhh!!!"However, those with expressions of fear were mostly the Marines.Most of the people inside the house showed none.Koby and the other Marines were surprised amidst their fear, "Revolutionary Dragon... Dragon has a son?!""Luffy is Dragon's son?!""Then... Dragon is Vice Admiral Garp's son?!""What is wrong with this family!!!"Compared to everyone else, Luffy was just dumbfounded. "That's the first time I've heard that name.""Hey, what's wrong, everyone?""Idiot! You don't even know Dragon's name!""Your father is a big deal!!"Sanji and Nami replied.Luffy felt like their answer was no answer at all.In that case, if he had a question, he would ask Satoru."Satoru..."Since Satoru couldn't answer, he asked, "Robin."It was at this moment that Robin realized what'stacked buffs' meant. She organized what she knew and replied."Pirates generally won't actively attack Marine and World Government ships.""But the Revolutionary Army is different. They are enemies of the Marine and the World Government.""The leader of the Revolutionary Army is Dragon.""His ideology is currently spreading in many countries, leading to numerous rebellions and the overthrow of several nations.""The World Government is, of course, furious about Dragon's actions and has always hunted him as a top-tier criminal, calling him the world's most dangerous criminal.""His background has always been a mystery; no one knew anything about him.""And now..."Robin sighed internally, marveling that Garp had so casually revealed such a... dangerous piece of information.After hearing Robin's words, Garp rubbed the back of his head and remarked."It seems I shouldn't have said that.""Puhahaha, well then, just pretend I didn't say that."Everyone was shocked again. How casual could he be!!!
Chapter 549: The Expected Instant KillAt the door of the house, grandfather and grandson met. After leaving surprising news, Garp was about to leave."That Satoru kid is so heartless, still sleeping when I'm about to leave.""Listen up, Luffy, you're my grandson, so I can't arrest you on this island.""I've already made up an excuse, so you can stay here with peace of mind."Garp said "blatantly".His adjutant, Bogard, complained, "That's not an excuse at all! Just say 'they got away'!"What excuse was Bogard talking about? Naturally, it was an excuse to fool Sengoku. Besides Sengoku, who else did Garp need to explain to?But Sengoku wasn't stupid. If Garp was serious, how could Luffy and the others possibly escape?But even if he knew, what could Sengoku do? He could only trust his old friend's words."Alright, Bogard, you go tell him."Garp replied."..."Bogard fell silent. Being Garp's adjutant was really tiring. There was no need to worry about combat, but it was mentally exhausting."Hahahaha, alright, I only came with these two anyway. You all can chat slowly.""I'm leaving!"Luffy's expression was calm."Hmm, bye-bye."Garp immediately threw a punch, "You're too heartless!!""Can't you try to make me stay! Idiot!! You haven't seen your grandpa in so long!!""Then what do you want me to do? I'm going to get beaten no matter what!!""I want my grandson's respect! Even if it's just fake, like that Satoru kid!!"Satoru: Eh! Eh! How can you say that? I'm truly sincere… (I hope you leave quickly, and then come back when I need to replicate something.)...Garp left. Although the news he brought was shocking, everyone just listened and moved on. Life had to continue, and Luffy, the Captain, still had to be followed.Franky went back to build the ship, including Usopp, who still couldn't face Luffy.Sanji, Zoro, Chopper, and Robin were having afternoon tea in the house.There were only the four of them in the room, oh, and Satoru, who was just a physical body. Of course, there was also Xiao Bai in Satoru's hand. Unfortunately, this wasn't a battle of consciousness, so Xiao Bai couldn't help.Outside, on the pile of rubble, Luffy, Koby, and Helmeppo were catching up, but Luffy mostly ignored Helmeppo.Behind the house was a swimming pool, and Namiwas eavesdropping on their conversation using a black den den mushi by the pool. (Black for eavesdropping, white for anti-eavesdropping).From Koby, Nami learned that the Marines could cross the Calm Belt, freely entering and exiting the Four Seas and the Grand Line, though not with 100% success.The reason they could do this was because the bottom of their warships were inlaid with Sea Stone. To Sea Kings, the warships were like... a wave, and they wouldn't pay attention to them.And the one who invented this method was Dr. Vegapunk.Not only Sea Stone, but Dr. Vegapunk also developed a new technique to make "objects" eat Devil Fruit.Nami listened and took notes, not forgetting to praise, "Truly worthy of being a Marine scientist.""There are countless masters in the world.""Only now do I realize how small the world I used to live in was. Luffy, that day… if you hadn't jumped out of that barrel!""To this day, I'd probably still be a chore boy on Alvida's ship!"Hearing this, Luffy laughed, clutching his stomach."Ahahaha, that's right! That's right! You were on Alvida's ship.""That's so funny! Especially the reason you were there."The subsequent conversation was just friendly banter and teasing. Nami showed a "relieved" smile, stopped eavesdropping, and went swimming in the pool… In another ten minutes, Koby and Helmeppowould also leave."Ah—you're really leaving!""Let's eat, and then talk after we eat."Luffy still liked Koby, his first friend at sea. As for Helmeppo... well... Koby smiled back, "We're enemies... we can't be too close!""Luffy, do you know the name of the latter half of the Grand Line?""Beyond the Red Line, that final sea, people have given it another name!!""It's called the New World!!""New World…"Hearing this name, Luffy became interested in that place.Koby nodded, "That's right!""It's a sea where strong individuals who are opening up a new era gather! The one who can conquer that sea is the Pirate King!!""Luffy! We will definitely meet again there!!""I will become even stronger and bring you to justice!""I will definitely become a Marine Ad... Admiral!!!"Koby loudly declared his dream, then became shy again."I... I'm so... so sorry!! I got carried away!!""How embarrassing!! I wish I could just dig a hole and crawl into it!""I... I got a little carried away after seeing you…""There's nothing to be ashamed of."Suddenly, a voice came, and Satoru appeared by the window, standing with Zoro.It was Satoru's face and clothes, but his hair was white!Everyone familiar with him knew without guessing that Satoru had possessed Xiao Bai's body again. But before, Xiao Bai's human form just looked a bit like Satoru; how did they become identical now?Satoru himself only just realized that Xiao Bai's human form could change its appearance at will. Xiao Bai said that her previous appearance was also modeled after Satoru's, but it was a magnified version, being over two meters tall.Satoru was curious, "You don't have your own appearance?"Xiao Bai's answer was a seemingly mysterious smile."Satoru, you're awake! Long time no see! But, your hair?"Koby immediately greeted him.Helmeppo followed suit, excitedly pointing at himself with both fingers.Satoru returned a smile, "Long time no see, Koby, you've... grown.""And you... butt-chin, that's you, right? Hmm, your hairstyle has changed, covering your eyes. Indeed... it looks much better. If your chin could change too, that would be great."Helmeppo wasn't interested in much of what Satorusaid; he was just touched that Satoru recognized him, "Thank you! Thank you!! Satoru!!""Back to business.""Koby, there's no need to be ashamed of what you said. Having dreams and aspirations is a good thing; what's scary is being muddled about your future.""However, once you have a pursuit, you must put it into practice. Just crying is useless."After Satoru finished speaking, Luffy also spoke."That's right, Koby, aren't you going to fight me? Then you'll definitely do it.""An Admiral?""Next time we meet, we'll also be stronger, even more formidable!!"Koby was moved to tears by Satoru and Luffy's words, and there was nothing wrong with those tears.He thought, I was just saying it casually, just bragging, why do they believe me so much?Zoro, standing next to Satoru, said, "What, you still haven't gotten rid of your crying habit, Koby?"Koby immediately prostrated himself, such a grand gesture, caught off guard."It's truly wonderful to reunite with you all today!"Then Koby immediately stood up again, throwing a punch, and Helmeppo also drew his twin swords."Please spar with us!"Luffy laughed heartily with his hands on his hips.Satoru and Zoro exchanged glances. Satorumentioned that Helmeppo practiced with swords, specifically special Kukri knives.Zoro found this reasonable and then climbed out the window.The sparring began!The sparring ended!An expected instant kill.
Chapter 550: A Place to BelongThe instant kill after the spar.Koby and Helmeppo stayed behind."We will get stronger. See you in the New World!""We'll shock you when that time comes!! Just wait and see!!"Saying this, they departed.Regarding their words, Zoro commented, "You're making enemies everywhere again, Luffy."Luffy's reply was."Koby is very capable, I know that, hee hee hee."As for Satoru, he just watched Koby and Helmeppowalk backward, constantly waving their hands, in silence.He didn't have the time to think about anything else right now.His consciousness would possess Xiao Bai's body.Then, the result of his solo battle against the Blackbeard Pirates on the Crystal Island of Fate was self-evident.Although 60% of Garp's physique was formidable, smashing Blackbeard until he cried and howled, it was ultimately only 60% and only lasted for 30 minutes. After the time limit expired, Satoruwouldn't last long.Because it wasn't as if Satoru hadn't sustained any injuries during those 30 minutes.Fate cannot be changed."Ace" was still captured.Fate can be changed.The one captured was not only Ace.What will the future hold... Behind the Galley-La Company headquarters, at the staff swimming pool."Miss Nami ♡ The Shuishui Meat is grilled and ready~"How could Sanji, the chef, be absent from a pool party?"Delicious... Wah ah...""Delicious... Wah ah...""It's so good... Shuishui Meat is really delicious..."Luffy, Chopper, and Usopp performed the same actions in unison: tilting their heads, chewing the meat, and pressing their hands against their bulging cheeks.For Usopp, the person was someone he dared not face right now, but the meat was something he had to eat right now.Thus, Zoro quipped, "Sniper King, when did you arrive?!"Sanji didn't care about those big guys; he asked, "Sister Robin ♡, how is the flavor? My cooking is pretty good, right?""Mhm, it's quite good."Sister Robin smiled and gave her support.She noticed Satoru next to her was silent. Normally, Satoru was also a big fan of food."What's wrong, Satoru? Is it not to your liking?""Also, are you really okay?"Regarding why he possessed Xiao Bai's body while his own body slept, Satoru told everyone that he was too tired this time and physically weak, and this way his body could rest better.Everyone believed him.Robin just smiled without saying anything.To Robin's question, Satoru replied, "I was wondering, since I'm using Xiao Bai's body right now, when I eat, does it count as him eating, or me eating? I can feel the taste and satisfaction, but can he feel it too?"Just then, the Franky Family entered through the entrance."Straw Hat, we heard you woke up! We came to see you."Although Luffy loved to eat, he also hoped for a large, lively crowd at the feast; either way, he would definitely be the one who ate the most."Oh!! It's the Franky Family! Come and eat!!""Wahaha! It's BBQ! I love it the most!"The entire Franky Family rushed over, including the two Blueno.Sanji commented, "You guys are so many! I need to add more meat."Next, the entire Galley-La Company came over, including Oimo and Keeshi, who were temporarily helping out."Straw Hat, you're awake!""It's BBQ!"Pauly, leading the group, still maintained his cool demeanor, "What are you guys doing?"Upon seeing Nami in a swimsuit, he instantly became agitated again."What are you wearing!! You shameless woman!"Nami retorted, "This is a swimming pool, big brother!"If she didn't wear a swimsuit, was she supposed to swim wrapped in a cotton quilt?"It smells wonderful."These were Iceberg's words.Iceberg arrived, and Franky appeared shortly after, since the two of them were building a ship together."Stop shipbuilding!""It would be a waste not to eat!""There should be a spot for me, right!"Zambai and the others replied, "Big Brother, we were waiting for you!"Sniper King climbed onto a high platform. We don't know why the swimming pool had a high platform."The strongest Sniper King! Presenting a song!!"The entire pool area was packed. Seeing everyone gathered, Luffy's grin was harder to suppress than an AK."Hee hee hee hee!!""Let the feast begin!!!"...The lively feast began, and the laughter carried outside Water Seven.Robin, perhaps still unaccustomed to such a massive party, stood leaning against a wall in the shade, holding a cup of black tea.Suddenly, Aokiji's voice came from behind her. Robin was too frightened to move, and Aokiji's words also instructed her not to move."Stand still... Nico Robin!""...You are Aokiji!"The two stood back-to-back, separated by a wall.Inside the wall, the merriment was endless, but outside the wall, it was rather quiet."Why didn't you run away like you did in the past?""If you were alone, you should have been able to escape from CP9."Aokiji posed the question.Robin looked toward everyone at the center of the feast. Run away? Even if she had wanted to escape then, Satoru was still following her."I told you I am different from the past.""I cannot stand by and watch them die.""I cannot do something like that."Aokiji was silent for two seconds after hearing this reply."The giant who sacrificed himself twenty years ago during the Ohara Incident, Hagwarl D. Saulo, was my friend.""That day, I followed his suggestion and let you leave the island. I had an obligation to monitor your life...""But for 20 years, you truly never found a place to belong, hiding everywhere like a ticking time bomb.""I decided I would no longer let you wander unchecked.""Moreover, you yourself didn't want to live anymore...""I thought it was time for me to put an end to everything related to Ohara!""But I didn't expect CP9 to suffer a crushing defeat.""Have you finally found... a place to belong?"Robin was silent for a few seconds as well, and then she only replied with one word, but it was an incredibly firm one: "Yes!""Whether Saulo was right or wrong to let you live, you will show me in the future, won't you?""...That's right!""Then live strongly. Ohara... has not perished!""I should go, otherwise, the young man on the top of the wall will stare at me until I'm scared.""Both of you are... big trouble for the Marine..."Aokiji said, and after speaking, he walked forward.When Robin heard Aokiji's words, she immediately looked up and saw the white-haired Satoru sitting on top of the wall.Satoru noticed Robin's gaze and gestured with the black tea in his hand.Robin paused for a moment, then smiled and raised her black tea in response.
Chapter 551: DiscipleGrand Line, New World."Pops! Pops!!""Red Hair says he wants to see you!!"An announcement from one of Whitebeard's many sons aboard the Whitebeard Pirates ship.This was a historic meeting between two Four Emperors.Whitebeard seemed unimpressed."Ah... let him come over.""That brat, he brought me good sake, right?!"The son, having received Pops' permission, immediately relayed the order."Welcome Captain Red Hair!"The visitor was here for a meeting, not a fight.The Whitebeard Pirates weren't an unruly crew; they had to at least clear a path for Red Hair to pass."Red Hair is arriving."This was Diamond Jozu, Commander of the Whitebeard Pirates' Third Division.Standing in front of him was Marco, Commander of the First Division."All the junior members stand back. Be careful your bodies can't handle it.""Huh? What does 'can't handle it' mean?""Don't worry about it, just hurry up and hide behind us."Marco, as the ship's doctor, was very concerned about the crew's physical condition.But it was too late. As Shanks stepped onto the stairs.An invisible aura of kingly dominance spread out, and those with weak willpower immediately face-planted and foamed at the mouth.If Garp trained Armament Haki into a passive ability.Then Shanks trained Haoshoku into a passive ability. This is the "Face-Face Fruit." Even so, Shankswas actively releasing some Haoshoku now, since those who joined the Whitebeard Pirates were not weaklings."Ah! What happened to you all?! What's going on!"Those who didn't understand panicked, while the Commander-level members were used to it."Ah, it's too late now. It's fine, don't worry about them, they just fainted."Marco explained.Jozu picked up where he left off, "If you're not prepared to stand in front of him and talk, you'll pass out...""Just like before... overflowing with Haki!!"Shanks was seen walking over, dragging a giant sake flask by himself. With every step, people on both sides collapsed, and even the deck planks cracked.Just as Jozu said, his Haki was overflowing.Everything was silent, save for the sound of Whitebeard drinking and the click-clack of Shanks' shoes on the deck.Until Shanks arrived in front of Whitebeard.The eight-meter-tall Whitebeard was taller than Shanks even while sitting, and his physique was much stronger than Shanks'.But though Shanks lost in size, he didn't lose in presence."Pardon the intrusion!""Since this is an enemy ship, I figured I'd scare them a little.""I brought you water that can heal wounds and sickness.""I have something to discuss with you."Whitebeard looked down at Shanks with a contemptuous gaze. He had the right to look down on others, but this didn't mean he underestimated Shanks."Every time I see your face, I want to ask: Do the scars that brat left you still ache?""Look at how imposing you are. You still claim you didn't come here to fight?""You bastard! GURARARARA!!!"The "brat" Whitebeard referred to was naturally Blackbeard. The three scars on Shanks' face were left by Blackbeard, who used Iron Claws as a weapon when he was part of the Whitebeard Pirates. For some reason, he hasn't been seen using them since his defection."Hey! Red Hair, what are you trying to do?!"Marco shouted."Oh! Marco, Commander of the First Division! Why don't you join us?"Shanks was poaching a subordinate right in front of the "Boss.""Cut the nonsense!!"Marco naturally couldn't betray his Pops, Whitebeard."Pops, should we..."Jozu asked. Since Whitebeard hadn't spoken, he certainly didn't dare to act on his own."It seems he didn't come here to fight. Let the two of us talk alone for a while."Whitebeard spoke, and his sons immediately obeyed, retreating to the First-Floor Deck, leaving only Whitebeard and Shanks on the Second Floor."Sake from the West Blue, huh... Doesn't look like much."Whitebeard commented before drinking.A smile appeared on Shanks' face."I've sailed across all the seas in the world... there's no better sake than this.""Try the sake from my hometown."Hearing this, Whitebeard tilted his head back and took a sip. "Hmm... it's alright.""Roger... Garp... Sengoku...""There aren't many people left who understand the sea back then."Whitebeard suddenly became nostalgic.Shanks replied."Twenty-two years have passed... it's understandable."Whitebeard grinned, "You climbed up pretty fast yourself. Back then, you were just an Apprentice Kid beside Gol D. Roger...""My crew and Roger's ship often fought, and we got familiar over time.""What about that funny Red-Nosed Guy who was with you? Did he die?"Speaking of Buggy, memories surfaced in Shanks' mind."Ah, Buggy...""I really miss those days.""The day Captain was executed, we parted ways in Loguetown, and we haven't heard from each other since...""I heard he's still a pirate.""For me, it feels like the blink of an eye.""There are also many people constantly continuing the legend. The days you dueled Hawkeye feel like yesterday to me.""Everyone was stunned that someone like you would lose an arm in the East Blue.""What kind of enemy took that left arm of yours?"Shanks covered his severed arm with his coat. The figures of Luffy and Satoru flashed in his mind, though Luffy's figure was more prominent."About that...""I bet it on the [New Era]!"Whitebeard heard this answer and replied while drinking, "As long as you don't regret it yourself."Shanks returned a smile. With the pleasantries finished, it was time to talk business."I have good news. A junior I know..."As Shanks spoke, the image of Beckman constantly instructing him before he boarded the ship flashed through his mind: "Make sure you say he's my disciple! Make sure you say Satoru, who cut off Blackbeard's left arm, is my disciple!!""He is Benn's disciple."Whitebeard didn't understand why Shankssuddenly brought up a junior."Benn? Beckman, the one who uses a gun, right?""Yes.""His disciple, what about him?""His disciple... cut off Blackbeard's left arm."Shanks stated it calmly.And a faint change appeared on Whitebeard's face, which had been perfectly composed until now.Shanks noticed this, and the corner of his mouth curled into a proud smile."A joke like that isn't funny.""Besides, you're not the type to joke around."This was Whitebeard's reply."Indeed, we have no proof, and we didn't witness it ourselves.""However, I believe that child wouldn't lie.""And... he is Ace's brother."This was another statement that made Whitebeard's eyebrows twitch slightly."Ace's... brother...""...Luffy, Satoru... Sabo?"Ace had mentioned his three brothers on the ship; Whitebeard surprisingly still remembered them.Shanks nodded, "It's Satoru."Just as he was about to continue, sounds came from the First-Floor Deck.
Chapter 552: Personally DeliveredShanks and Whitebeard were talking about Satoru, and just as Shanks was about to elaborate, a sound came from the first-floor deck.Beckman had arrived.Facing the encirclement, Beckman remained composed."Captain, the Vice-Captain came up too. Are we really going to start a fight?"Marco asked.Beckman held a cigarette in his mouth, a den den mushi in one hand, and the other resting on a gunstock."Quite the spectacle.""I'm just here to hand a den den mushi to my apprentice.""Apprentice?"Marco was confused. Why had he never heard that Beckman had an apprentice? After all, he was a top-tier combatant."Gurararara, let him come up, Marco.""Don't worry about me! Two brats can't take my life."Whitebeard's words came down, incredibly arrogant, but he had the right to be."Pops, let me go up too."Although Marco knew the Red Hair Pirates weren't the type to launch a sneak attack, it was better to be safe than sorry.After all, these were two figures of the Four Emperors level.Beckman's strength was comparable to Shanks'.Therefore, even though they had the fewest territories and the fewest crew members, the Red Hair Pirates firmly held their position as one of the Four Emperors."Fine."Whitebeard trusted his own strength and possessed great pride, but he also knew Marco's stubborn nature; he couldn't argue with him... Beckman and Marco arrived on the second-floor deck.Shanks didn't ask why Beckman had come; he had already heard Beckman's statement, "I'm here to hand a den den mushi to my apprentice."Shanks continued what he was saying."The one who left this scar on me wasn't Hawkeye, nor was it sustained during my adventures.""This injury was inflicted by your subordinate, Marshall D. Teach!""I didn't pay much attention to it at the time.""You know what I mean, Whitebeard.""He has always been waiting for the right moment... neither striving for a Captain's position nor increasing his fame.""Instead, he has been hiding under the banner of Whitebeard!""Once he gains power, he will start acting. His ultimate goal is the peak!""Driven by his own will, he will eventually come to usurp your position!"Whitebeard was silent for a moment. How much of the danger Shanks described he truly took in, only he knew."Then what do you want me to do? That must be the purpose of your visit."Shanks stated his objective."Call Ace back!""He is young, and he is your Second Division Captain. Ace is very strong, I know that much.""But his reputation and your trust in him will make this matter tricky.""Now is not the time for the two of them to confront each other.""Do not provoke Marshall D. Teach. I only have this one request!"After Shanks finished speaking, Whitebeard burst into laughter."Gurararara!!""You snot-nosed brat sure knows how to talk!!"Tensions were about to escalate.Satoru, standing atop the wall surrounding the backyard pool of the Galley-La Company in Water Seven, immediately spoke up.Satoru was on the wall primarily to talk to Beckmanand Shanks, and secondarily to see if Aokiji would suddenly make a move. He hadn't expected to find such a coincidence: it was exactly the time Shanksand Whitebeard were meeting."You two shouldn't start fighting."A slightly youthful and heroic voice came through the den den mushi's receiver.Whitebeard and Shanks were both drawn to the voice.Beckman stepped forward, extended his hand, and placed the den den mushi between the two men."Long time no see, Shanks.""Hahaha, long time no see, Satoru. Say hello to Luffy for me.""Mhm.""Let's get back to business, Whitebeard Pops.""Ace calls you Pops. Is it alright if I call you that too?""Gurararara, if that's the case, why don't you become my son too!"This was Whitebeard's answer, completely unsurprising.Satoru replied."Ace invited me, but my answer was that I already have someone I intend to support."At this moment, Marco handed Whitebeard the Straw Hat Pirates' latest wanted poster."Straw Hat Luffy? A 300 million bounty, gururarara, isn't he just a rookie brat!""And you, Satoru kid, 291 million. You claim you cut off one of Teach's hands?"Whitebeard remained somewhat skeptical that Satoru, a rookie pirate, could cut off one of Blackbeard's hands. After all, he didn't know Satoruwell, and who knew if he was lying.Regarding this question, Satoru spoke with great confidence."The day we meet, I will personally deliver Blackbeard's severed arm!"Beckman's face was filled with pride; he was practically shouting, 'This is my apprentice, this is my apprentice!!'Whitebeard was silent for a moment, then burst out laughing."Gurararara!! Good! I'll be waiting!""So, kid, are you calling on the den den mushi just to tell me to call Ace back?""As his brother, you should understand his personality.""If I call him, he will return, but is that what he wants?"It was Satoru's turn to fall silent."...""No, Whitebeard Pops, I'm not asking you to call Ace back.""Originally, I had already convinced Ace, and he was preparing to return to the ship.""However... we still ran into Blackbeard, and the comrades he has recruited now..."Hearing this, Whitebeard experienced his biggest emotional fluctuation, though it still wasn't significant."So, you still confronted Teach!""The fact that you can speak to me, does that mean you retreated unharmed? Or, given your strength—the one who cut off Teach's left hand—did you... capture him?"Satoru didn't know whether to laugh or cry. If that were true, it would be wonderful, but the reality was the exact opposite."I was with Ace, but I was also present at the Enies Lobby incident. This is the strange part.""If you read the Marine reports in the newspaper, Pops, you'd know that was my Clone Ability.""The one with Ace was only my clone; its strength wasn't enough to deal with Blackbeard.""Finally...""What happened in the end!"Whitebeard asked, involuntarily releasing his Haki.Satoru first explained the function of the heart of jade, and then said that he and Ace had swapped souls in the end.Therefore, what was captured was Ace's body and Satoru's soul.But Satoru could transfer his consciousness into Little White's body, so he could technically be considered uncaptured.Satoru mentioned this to Whitebeard and the others without going into detail about Little White, simply saying it was a function of his ability.But if Ace's body doesn't return, Ace will become a wandering ghost, and Satoru will be stuck in Little White's body forever.This outcome was worse than if Ace had simply been captured alone.However, Ace's soul escaped, and Satoru's soul can be freely transferred, which increases their mobility.Moreover, with Satoru involved, then Beckman, as his Master... "What!! Does that mean if Ace's body is gone, and your soul cannot return to your body within seven days, you will also completely die?!"Regarding this point, Satoru was just making it up; he had no idea what would happen if a soul left the body for seven days.