Chapter 553: Did I Violate the Heavenly Rules?"This is outrageous!!!"Beckman's voice echoed throughout the Whitebeard Pirates' Moby Dick, and the anger contained within was palpable.Because his only apprentice, the apprentice he greatly admired—that apprentice, Satoru, who showed no respect and always talked back to his master—might die, and Blackbeard was responsible for all of it."Was that the Vice-Captain's voice? He sounds really angry. What happened?"Aboard the Red Hair Pirates' ship, everyone was surprised. After all, their own Vice-Captain was a smart man who rarely expressed his emotions so intensely; this current behavior was abnormal."Should we go over and check?"The Red Hair Pirates' newcomer, Rockstar, asked.Yasopp shook his head, "No need. They haven't started fighting. If we go over without being asked, we'll have to fight even if we didn't intend to. Let's wait and see."..."Calm down, Benn.""Satoru isn't dead yet.""However, it looks like we'll have to make a big move this time."Shanks advised, but his last sentence showed that he was also protective of his own.Whitebeard remained silent. That was Ace's body, and Ace's matter; naturally, he couldn't ignore it."So, Ace's soul is currently inside you? Are you two together right now?""He should arrive tomorrow.""You're so calm, do you already have a plan?"After all, Whitebeard had been fighting his entire life until now. He was worried about Ace being captured, but he wouldn't lose his sanity over it.Hearing Whitebeard's words, Satoru laughed—laughing at himself. He wished he had a plan right now; his mind was a mess."I don't know. I tried hard to keep Ace away from Blackbeard, but in the end, fate intervened and made them meet.""What should we do now? Right now, I just want to chop off Blackbeard's remaining limbs!""If he develops further, he will definitely become a huge hidden danger—a man who can lie in wait for over 20 years for his ambition. He's harmless until he shows his teeth, but once he does, he'll leave others covered in blood."Everyone fell silent.Satoru's words did not sound like something a seventeen-year-old boy would say, and moreover, Satoru seemed to know Blackbeard very well.Only Beckman replied, "Well said, kid. Chop off his limbs and use them as target practice.""Master, if only saying it could make it happen.""Right now, Ace's body is being escorted by Blackbeard and his crew to a Marine Branch Base.""It's too late for you to rush over.""My plan—it's not really a plan, but I think this is the best way to proceed.""Ace will definitely be escorted to Impel Down.""I'm going to break into Impel Down to rescue him!""As for Father Whitebeard, Shanks, and you, Master—since you are Four Emperors Crews, the Marines will pay close attention to you.""The Marines will constantly monitor your every move. I hope you can act as if you don't know Acehas been captured, in order to mislead the Marines.""That means doing nothing—oh, destroying a few Marine Branches to draw the Marines' attention would be best.""If you were to attack Impel Down, that would trigger a world-class war.""Let me handle it. Inside Impel Down, there aren't many people I fear.""If I still fail to save Ace in the end.""Then this world-class war seems inevitable."Satoru finished explaining his plan and fell silent.Breaking into Impel Down—one can only say he has immense guts!That is a place pirates avoid at all costs. Even Golden Lion Shiki had his legs crippled after escaping from there."Breaking into Impel Down alone? Are you sure, Satoru?"Shanks asked."It's not alone, Shanks.""Although Ace is using my body, his Devil Fruit Ability is still active, so he's with me."Satoru replied. Of course, it wasn't alone; Ace was still there."What about you, kid? If you get handcuffed with seastone handcuffs, won't your abilities vanish?""If your abilities disappear, given your physique, I doubt you'd even get past the first level of Impel Down."Beckman's words truly showed he was a master.Satoru couldn't help but smile. Although the Beckman known to the outside world is smart and highly strategic, the Beckman he knows is exactly like this: sharp-tongued, lecherous, loves smoking and drinking, and doesn't perm his hair."Don't worry, Master, I'm not going there to die. I've grown over the years."...Why not have Whitebeard and Red Hair attack Impel Down to save Ace?Easier said than done. Have you considered Magellan's feelings?After seeing such a huge array, Magellan would probably say: Did I seriously violate the Heavenly Rules?Just kidding.From a strategic perspective, Satoru preventing Aceand Blackbeard from meeting was to save the lives of both Ace and Whitebeard, as everyone knows the outcome of the Marineford War.It was specifically to prevent the Marineford Warfrom starting, and to prevent Blackbeard from having the chance to seize the Tremor-Tremor Fruitand greatly increase his power.The Marines and the World Government constantly monitor the actions of the Four Emperors Crews. For example, the meeting between the Whitebeard Pirates and the Red Hair Pirates right now is already known to the Gorosei and Marineford.Moreover, the battleships at Marineford are always on standby.If they fight each other, that's fine, but the fear is that they might join forces.If Whitebeard and Shanks led their pirate crews to Impel Down to rescue Ace, Marineford, upon learning their direction, would certainly set up a massive formation to meet them. This would be similar to the Marineford War, just not located at Marineford itself.Wouldn't that be no different? Wouldn't that also give Blackbeard a chance to profit from the chaos?Therefore, Satoru hopes they will infiltrate Impel Down themselves to save the person.Success would be best.If they fail, then, following the course of fate, the Marineford War will begin. Satoru, having the script, dare not claim absolute victory, but he can at least increase the survival rate of Whitebeard and Ace... After hanging up the phone, Satoru looked down from above at Luffy performing the Chopstick Dance by the Central Swimming Pool.His comical appearance made Satoru laugh involuntarily."That's right, it's a banquet now, Satoru. Cheer up.""Ace won't arrive until tomorrow. Let's worry about tomorrow's problems tomorrow... How am I supposed to tell Luffy though!!!!"In the end, Satoru couldn't deceive himself; he was extremely bothered.Right now, he just wanted to use Blackbeard's severed arm to violently slap Blackbeard across the face.Robin only started making the call after returning to the center area. Originally, Robin wanted to use her Blooming Ear-Arm to eavesdrop, as everyone is curious, but she didn't use it for fear of Satorunoticing.But now, she clearly saw Satoru looking annoyed and scratching his head in frustration.But she didn't speak up, planning to ask Satorulater.Since Satoru didn't tell everyone, asking him about it during the banquet would be insensitive and spoil the mood. Clearly, Nico Robin wouldn't do such a thing.After all, she was a mature 28-year-old big sister.If it were Luffy, he would definitely ask immediately.But Luffy isn't insensitive; he's just silly and pure
Chapter 554: This Matter Concerns the World"Beep, beep, beep..."On the Whitebeard Pirates' side, Satoru hung up the den den mushi, and the beeping sound echoed out.Beckman put away the den den mushi. He didn't need to speak; he wasn't the Captain—Shanks was."This junior brat named Satoru... is very interesting, gurarara!! No wonder Ace often mentions his brothers.""Of course, you have to look at whose apprentice he is."Beckman looked proud.Whitebeard glanced at him. "The only drawback is that he's the apprentice of a gun-toting brat like you."Because of that, it would be even harder to adopt him as a son."Uh..."Beckman was choked up."Hmph, you have the nerve to say that, Whitebeard. It's bad enough your son got captured, but you have to drag my apprentice into it too."Upon hearing this, Whitebeard laughed loudly. "Gurarara, the crime Teach committed is the most unforgivable on a pirate ship!""Killing a comrade! He committed a cardinal sin!!""As long as they step onto my ship, even if they're an idiot, they're my son. How are those crew members he murdered supposed to rest in peace?!""Ace did the right thing!!""Someone who lacks benevolence and righteousness doesn't deserve to live in this world!""Isn't it my responsibility to Teach Teach that lesson?!""Ace getting captured is because he wasn't strong enough. His brother Satoru helping him is out of brotherly loyalty.""Both of them did the right thing. Even if he can't be saved from Impel Down, you don't need to interfere! I will go save him myself! I am Whitebeard!!!"Whitebeard said this with such dominance, as if nothing in front of him could stop him.Shanks silently downed a large bowl of sake."Hahaha, Satoru is Benn's apprentice and our friend. It's not like we can just ignore it because you say so, Whitebeard!""Huh? What, do you have an issue with what I said, brat!!?"Drawing his sword gryphon with one hand, Shanksremarked, "Yeah, it sounds like something an old fossil would say."As Whitebeard stood up, he drew the Murakumogiri beside him."Gurarara, how arrogant! You wet-behind-the-ears brat!!"Marco and Beckman retreated in tacit understanding, though Beckman only took one step back, while Marco took over a dozen.The next second, Whitebeard and Shanks' weapons collided.Red lightning sparked.Cracks appeared on the deck of the Moby Dick, but the most shocking sight was the sky splitting open.When kings clash, the sky splitting is standard procedure.On the Red Hair Pirates' ship, the red force, everyone was even more curious about what they had been talking about up there."Did they really go at it? Is a war starting?"Lucky Roux asked while chewing on meat.Yasopp narrowed his eyes. "The boss said they wouldn't fight. Just wait for orders."On the first deck of the Moby Dick, Jozu, the Third Division Commander, was now in charge.A commander shouted sternly, "What are they trying to do to Pops?!"Jozu crossed his arms."Don't worry. Don't you know how strong Pops is? Besides, Shanks and Beckman aren't the type to do something stupid.""It looks like, at most, the negotiations just broke down."At this moment, someone let out an exclamation, naturally reacting to the fact that the sky had split open....According to the Marine's intelligence, the meeting between the Whitebeard Pirates and the Red Hair Pirates ended after the two clashed blades and exchanged cannon fire.The Marines couldn't eavesdrop on what the two discussed, but they were quite happy to see the outcome where both sides fought but didn't really fight.At the very least, this indicated that the matter they discussed had likely fallen through.That's how the not-so-smart ones thought.Sengoku couldn't possibly have guessed their conversation, so he increased the Marine's surveillance on both pirate crews during this period. Regardless of whether their negotiations truly broke down or if it was all an act, being cautious was always the right move....The night the banquet ended.As the banquet went on, it got bigger and bigger, until eventually, the entire town's population came to participate.The large pile of dirty dishes at the pool didn't need the Straw Hat crew to clean them up; the townspeople volunteered to help wash them.Luffy lay on the ship, sound asleep with a "ten-year-pregnant" belly.The others were asleep as well.There were enough beds.Nami and Chopper were sleeping normally in the beds.Sanji was sleeping slumped over the table.Zoro was sitting directly on the floor, sleeping against the wall under the window, with the Moonlight shining in just enough to illuminate his legs.Only Satoru and Robin were still awake.Satoru sat in a chair looking at Satoru, waiting for the Satoru arriving tomorrow.It sounded strange, but for Satoru, it was perfectly normal.Robin appeared at the window outside the house, resting her hands on the window sill. Crossing her arms, a sprouted arm emerged from the chair and poked Satoru with a finger.Satoru turned his head to see Robin leaning forward on the window sill, her right hand covering her right cheek, wearing a smile.She didn't say anything, but Satoru knew what she meant. During the day, Robin's gaze kept drifting his way; there was no way Satoru wouldn't have noticed.Satoru nodded, suddenly transformed into a white snake, jumped over Robin's head to the outside of the window, landed, and turned back into human form.Robin turned to look. Satoru didn't make a sound, pointing to a tree not far away, indicating they should talk there.Robin naturally understood, so she nodded and walked over.The two spoke in very low voices.But Zoro, sleeping against the wall under the window, still opened his eyes...."Tonight... the weather is nice, the breeze is quite comfortable.""I didn't expect Sister Robin to be in the mood for a walk."Although it was Robin who called Satoru out, Satoru spoke first to break the silence."The weather is indeed nice.""Did something happen, Satoru?"Robin first politely returned the smile, agreed, and then got straight to the point.Satoru was choked up for a second. "Sister Robin, your transition was really stiff.""You noticed.""Yeah, some things happened.""However, you don't need to worry about this."Satoru replied.Robin's smile remained on her face. "I don't want you to make the choice I made."Here, Robin was referring to the time she made a secret deal with CP9."We are comrades; we should trust everyone.""This is what you told me, Satoru."Hearing Robin's words, Satoru fell silent, then sighed."This matter is even more important than CP9 and Enies Lobby.""This matter... concerns the world!"As soon as Satoru said this, Robin's expression changed. Her smile vanished, replaced by worry.Zoro, who had snuck along and didn't know he had already been exposed, widened his eyes."It's that serious?"Robin couldn't believe it. How did such a serious matter suddenly come up?Satoru nodded."Yes. I didn't say anything because if Luffy knew, he definitely wouldn't be able to stay calm."Robin grasped the key point. "Does this matter have to do with Luffy?!"
Chapter 555: The Rule"This matter concerns Luffy?!"Robin grasped the key point in Satoru's words.The world-class major event that Satoru was currently worried about was related to Luffy.Recalling the news received during the day: his grandfather is the marine hero, his father is the Revolutionary Army Leader, and they have ties to the Red Hair Pirates.This truly is a major event concerning the world!"It concerns Luffy, but if he doesn't know about it, then it doesn't concern him.""With his strength—with your current strength—it is not enough to face this matter."Satoru replied, still speaking mysteriously."You plan to face it alone?"After all, Robin had been wandering the world for many years, and having previously served as the Chief Intelligence Officer of Baroque Works for a long time, she was excellent at picking up key information."Me, and one... comrade."Satoru almost said 'brother'.Hearing the word 'comrade', Robin smiled again. "If that person is your comrade, then are we not?""Don't talk about strength.""I didn't believe everyone could defeat CP9 before, but what about now?""Your current thinking is the same as mine back then.""Either you tell me what the matter is, and I'll judge whether or not to tell the Captain. If you don't tell me, I'll have the Captain come and ask you.""After all, I am also a member of the crew, and I must listen to the Captain.""Or, perhaps, I might 'coincidentally' go with you to face this matter."After stating the two options, Robin's smile took on a hint of cunning; she was always a slightly scheming Older Sister, after all.Satoru laughed helplessly. "Sister Robin, you are truly... loyal."This was the only description Satoru could think of.Robin accepted it calmly."Thank you for the compliment."She then continued to wait for Satoru to make a choice. In any case, the night was still long... The wind blew, and the branches swayed.The silence didn't last long, less than a minute. Satoru sighed and spoke."When Ace and I reunited, Sister Robin, you hadn't joined the crew yet.""Ace? Fire Fist Ace?""The Commander of the Second Division of the Whitebeard Pirates. He appeared in Alabasta.""Reunion? Are you old acquaintances?"First the marine hero, the Revolutionary ArmyLeader, the Red Hair Pirates, and now the Whitebeard Pirates were added. Robin found it terrifying just thinking about it."He is Luffy's and my older brother, raised together since childhood, a Sworn Brother."Satoru replied, feeling surprised. Hadn't he mentioned it before?"Luffy's family is truly..."Robin felt nothing but shock in her heart; the buffs truly never ended."During the day, Ace was captured by the Blackbeard Pirates and handed over to the Marineas a bargaining chip for Blackbeard to become a Shichibukai.""This is the matter I was worried about."Satoru finally revealed the matter, taking the opportunity to explain just how important the event was."Ace is the Commander of the Second Division of the Whitebeard Pirates.""He is Luffy's and my older brother.""And my soul is currently inside Ace's body.""My Mentor is Benn Beckman, the Vice Captain of the Red Hair Pirates.""He was delivered to the Marine, and Garp, who is our grandfather, is also a marine hero Vice Admiral."The buffs stacked up layer after layer.However... "However, the most fatal thing is Ace's identity.""Ace's identity?"Robin was confused. She was already confused by Satoru saying his soul was inside Ace's body—did Ace have another identity?Satoru met Robin's gaze."He is the son of the Pirate King, Gol D. Roger!"Robin's mind briefly exploded. Why? Because the buffs had overloaded.Satoru waited for her to digest the news. Anyone who didn't know this information from the start, yet was aware of the top powerhouses on the sea, would definitely be shocked.If you substitute Luffy, he would probably only care that Ace was captured and would immediately want to save him. Only this pure fraternal love matters; nothing else, because he is Luffy."This is truly a matter concerning a shift in the world's structure."Robin said that as a Historian, if this event occurred, she could imagine the immense research impact its records would have on future historians."Shall I continue?""Mhm."Without Robin needing to ask, Satoru explained that the reason his soul was inside Ace's body was due to the heart of jade, the Supreme Treasure of the Lost Ancient Capital, Jade Capital.Therefore, Ace wasn't entirely captured; only his Physical Body was seized, while Satoru's Soul was seized.The two of them, each missing the corresponding part of the other, were preparing to face this matter.Summarized in two words: Prison Break!"So, your plan is to meet Ace—who will arrive tomorrow inside your Clone's body—wait for him to transfer his soul back into your Main Body, and then go together to Impel Down to break him out and retrieve your respective Physical Bodies and Souls?""Hoping to prevent a world-class war resulting from the clash of Major Powers?"Robin was good at summarizing.Satoru nodded."That's right.""Whether the outcome is success or failure, I have already prepared for it.""What I'm worried about is how to tell Luffy?"This was the real problem, even though Luffy was easy to trick."Once this is told to Luffy, he will definitely go with us to save Ace.""To be honest, his strength isn't enough. As older brothers, we absolutely don't want to see him injured, or even pay the Price of Lifespan.""The Price of Lifespan?"Robin looked into Satoru's eyes."Did you see something again?"Satoru naturally followed her lead."Precisely because I saw it, I don't want Luffy to come with us.""If he goes, you, as comrades, certainly won't abandon him, even if the destination is Impel Down.""Therefore, I hope you won't tell Luffy.""I also hope I can think of a good excuse tonight."To be honest, this was the first time Robin had seen Satoru look so troubled, and she felt it must be rare."Alright, I won't say anything.""However, I must say one thing on behalf of the Captain and everyone: we are comrades.""Just as you said, even if the destination is Impel Down, if you need us, we will go.""I'm leaving now. It's already past bedtime."Robin turned and walked back to the house. Although she walked easily, she felt ashamed of her own powerlessness. Luffy and Satoru had just helped her find hope for life, yet now, with her current strength, she couldn't help them.Satoru looked up at the moon. It was truly round.Looking up at the moon, Satoru spoke."You are also forbidden from telling Luffy, Zoro."Zoro's body stiffened. He had originally planned to sneak back—had he been discovered after all?Zoro didn't say much, only leaving one sentence."For a Crew Member to leave the ship, whether temporarily or permanently, the Captain must agree. That is the rule...""Even the Captain's Secretary and the Captain's Older Brother must abide by it."After speaking, Zoro also walked back into the house.Hearing Zoro's words, Satoru couldn't help but smile. "Rules, huh... But I, Satoru, don't seem like the type to follow rules...""Hey! Hey!! Where are you going? The house is over there!"
Chapter 556: Mostly Awkward and UselessThe moon and sun exchanged shifts.The second day of the banquet arrived.Franky, Iceberg, Pauly, Pepporone, and Nergal Galette, the five top-tier shipwrights, were still working tirelessly on the "Dream Ship".It wasn't until the second day that newspapers about the Enies Lobby incident reached Water Seven; the wanted posters hadn't arrived yet.However, the top-tier and high-level forces had already received newspapers and wanted posters on the first day after the Enies Lobby incident.The president of the newspaper agency certainly knows how to act... how to bird... whatever, he just knows how to act.At the old site of the Franky Family, the Franky Family, rebuilding their home, was abuzz with excitement over the news from the newspaper.They had thought they would become wanted criminals and live a life on the run, but to their surprise, the newspaper report didn't mention them at all... Galley-La Company Temporary Headquarters - Pirate House.Everyone was having breakfast.Of course, they also saw the newspaper and were puzzled why the Franky Family and the shipwrights weren't mentioned.Sanji guessed, looking at Luffy, "Could it be your grandfather... made a false report, treating them as ordinary citizens caught up in the incident?"Luffy replied firmly, "Impossible, he wouldn't care about such things."At this moment, Garp, sailing back, sneezed.Robin remained silent, thinking, if it wasn't Garp, the only one with that authority would be Aokiji, truly an unfathomable man.Sanji wasn't desperate for an answer."Anyway, this is a good thing. It doesn't matter much for us, but if they had to flee, that would be truly pitiful."Zoro, who was full and sitting on the ground reading the newspaper, said, "However, this way, all the blame falls on us.""Declaring war on the World Government, and even causing the entire island to be burned to ashes, it's all blamed on us."This is a terrible thing, isn't it?But Zoro smiled, "This time, our bounties seem to be going up again."Chopper's eyes lit up. Although his eyes were usually bright, they were even brighter now."Oh! So I might also become a wanted criminal?!"Sanji replied, "Of course it's possible, but the most troublesome one is me, a superstar is making his debut!"Nami glared at Sanji, "What's there to be happy about?! Idiot!"This is the difference between boys and girls. Boys are concerned with the height of bounties, while girls hope for fewer troubles, and no bounty is necessary. If the bounty money could be given to me, that would be best. (This is Nami's thought)"Satoru, what do you think?"Satoru, who was quietly eating breakfast, was suddenly cued by Robin. Satoru had reason to suspect Robin was doing it on purpose."What do I think?""About the Franky Family not being reported?""Sanji is right, it's a good thing for them that they weren't reported.""Speaking of the Franky Family, Luffy, you don't know yet, but Franky is helping us build a ship."Satoru seemed to change the subject, but Robinhadn't brought up any specific topic."Eh! Franky is helping us build a ship?!""That's great, those guys are really good!"Luffy happily raised both hands and one leg."Yes, so during the time the new ship is being built, we'll have free time, right?"Satoru suggested, seizing the opportunity.Robin and Zoro remained silent.The others, who didn't know about the Ace incident, readily agreed with Satoru.Nami said, "Satoru is right, so let's enjoy shopping in Water Seven during this time.""Um... excuse me, where's the 100 million Berrieshere?"Luffy didn't sense any danger approaching."Oh, it was used to buy wine and meat for the banquet.""Bought so much? Only this little bit left?!""Hahaha, after all, everyone in the town came in the end, it was really lively, it was truly worth another..."As Luffy was speaking, Nami's fist was already in front of him.Luffy was punched, and the bump on his head was bigger than his head. "Uh... anyway, we have a new ship, so it's fine, right!"Nami sat on the ground sighing, "Wuwuwu, I originally wanted to buy some luxurious furniture."Robin comforted her, "Hehehe, let's go treasure hunting in cheaper places."That's the only option.Nami got up and distributed the remaining 100,000 Berries to everyone.Satoru, Zoro, Sanji, and Chopper each received 10,000 Berries.She and Robin took the remaining 60,000 to shop for furniture."Ah? Nami, I want to go play too, give me some pocket money!""None for you!!!"Nami was furious, you still want money!Satoru handed his share to Luffy, "You can have mine. I'm going to... enjoy the sea breeze, I don't need money."Luffy was also not polite, "Thank you so much, Satoru!! You're the best.""Let's go, Chopper, we're going to get something to eat!"Nami and Robin left first.Then Luffy and Chopper.Zoro went to buy a sword.Sanji went to buy ingredients.Only Satoru was left in the house.Satoru suddenly felt a sense of loneliness, "Looking at the time... Ace should be here soon."...Luffy and Chopper bought Water Water Candy to eat together, then Luffy accompanied Chopper to buy medical books. When Luffy tried to open a book and look at it, he immediately fell asleep.Zoro took 10,000 Berries to buy a sword, and the boss cursed, "You want to buy a sword with this little money!! Dream on!! You insincere fellow!"Not everyone is like Ipponmatsu, the'sword lender' owner of the weapon shop in Loguetown.Sanji bought a cart full of ingredients, and unlike Zoro, the ingredient store owner praised Sanjihighly."Thank you for your patronage, young man, you have good taste."Sanji said, "Haha! I'm top-notch."Nami and Robin went to buy furniture, but Namicouldn't move once she saw the clothes on the street.As for Satoru, he was seen embracing himself as he headed to the seaside to meet Ace.Originally, Ace and Satoru were supposed to travel to Water Seven on Kama's ship.Who is Kama? He is the second prince of the West Blue Black Hand Gang, whose soul was swapped by Chang Sheng, the boss of the Life Auction House. He offended Satoru, who then bid up the Adam Tree trunk to 500 million to buy it for his grandfather's coffin.Originally, Satoru and Ace planned to say goodbye to Kama in Gourmet Town, have a good meal, and then take the sea train to Water Seven, but Blackbeard's appearance disrupted this plan.So Ace didn't go to Gourmet Town and instead took Kama's ship, traveling day and night, directly to Water Seven.Satoru arrived at the coast, embracing himself, and could already vaguely see Kama's ship.There was also a long-nosed man on the shore, muttering to himself, laughing and talking at the same time.Usopp was practicing how to return to the Straw Hat Pirates without being awkward.Uh... the methods he thought of were mostly awkward and useless.Stopped🔊
Chapter 557: Satoru? Satoru? Satoru?"Can you come back, Usopp?!""Wahahaha, of course I can!! If you guys are begging me, then I'll reluctantly come back and be the Vice Captain.""Long time no see, Usopp.""Ack!!"Usopp was by the coast, thinking about how he could naturally rejoin the Straw Hat Pirates, but the idea of everyone begging him to return was essentially... a dream.Hearing a sudden voice behind him, he was startled and immediately turned around."Satoru!!?""Satoru?"He saw Long-Haired Satoru holding Satoru appear behind him, leaving Usopp a bit... confused."Wahaha... yeah, long time no see, Satoru.""Why is there another Satoru? Why are you holding... yourself?"Usopp had also heard when Satoru explained it to the others, but of course, he wouldn't admit he was eavesdropping.Satoru smiled back, thinking, you little guy is still pretending, huh? Satoru was too lazy to explain again. "I'm holding it for fun.""Holding... holding it for fun?"This answer completely stumped Usopp."Haha... that's really... interesting...""What I just said... you didn't hear it, right, Satoru?"Usopp tried to ask, feeling extremely awkward.A person with normal emotional intelligence would naturally say they didn't hear it—even if they did, they'd pretend otherwise—let alone Satoru, who has relatively high emotional intelligence."I... heard everything.""Everything, word for word.""Vice Captain Usopp~"Usopp was so ashamed he wanted to jump straight into the sea, but he was afraid of being smashed to death by the reefs. He only wished there was a hole in the ground he could crawl into.Just then, Sanji returned after catching a few fresh fish in the sea. As he pushed the groceries he had bought earlier back, he saw the scene of Usopp, Satoru, and Satoru on the shore."What is that guy Usopp doing?""Also, Satoru said he came to enjoy the sea breeze, and brought his body along to enjoy it too? Why didn't he just return to his body and enjoy it?"...Sanji left without calling out to the two of them.Satoru was waiting for the ship to arrive, silently holding his own body.Usopp also fell silent; he was silent out of embarrassment, unsure what to say."Satoru... why did you come to the beach?""Waiting for that ship."Satoru replied.Usopp looked ahead. There was indeed a ship approaching, and judging by the flag, it wasn't a pirate ship.Usopp was confused. Why was Satoru waiting for this ship?His friend?I remember that flag design... it belongs to the Black Hand Gang!!The Black Hand Gang?! Why would Satoru wait for a Black Hand Gang ship?!Could it be that Satoru's true identity is the Young Master of the Black Hand Gang? A descendant of the Black Hand Gang Boss left outside?!!Usopp was wildly speculating in his mind. After learning that Luffy's father was the leader of the Revolutionary Army and his grandfather was a marine hero, he now felt that anything was possible.While he was speculating, the ship docked.The sound of chains sliding, the sound of the anchor dropping into the water.Ace, carrying the body of Clone Bai Yun, leaped down from the ship."Satoru!"All three Satorus were present."Satoru? Satoru? Satoru?"Usopp rubbed his eyes; three Satorus had appeared before him.This was normal; it had happened before, but the current situation was different.Before, they were identical Satorus.Now there was one unconscious Satoru, one Long-Haired Satoru, and one Satoru who felt strange overall.This scene looked very bizarre."Stop talking nonsense! Hurry up!"Satoru grabbed the hand of the body he was holding, but Ace didn't understand yet."Huh?""Transfer the soul over!""Otherwise, once your body is put in seastone handcuffs, my ability will disappear, and the body you're currently in will turn into a bullet. Nobody knows what will happen then!"Satoru explained.Ace understood. "Got it! Got it!"Usopp, however, didn't understand. What's with 'your body' and 'my body'? What does this all mean??!No one answered him. Ace took the heart of jade off his neck and held it together with the hand of Satoru's body.Green light erupted.Soul transfer.Ace opened his eyes and immediately felt himself being held by Satoru."Let me down first, Satoru."Satoru dropped his hands immediately, and Acetumbled down, nearly face-planting, but managed to catch himself with his hands.Meanwhile, the standing body of Clone Bai Yunstaggered in the sea breeze. Seeing this, Usoppimmediately rushed to support it, showing good sense."Satoru!! What's wrong with you?""It's Satoru, right?!""What exactly is going on here?"Ace stood up and complained, "That's your own body, Satoru."Satoru didn't reply.Usopp was already dizzy. It felt so strange hearing Satoru call himself Satoru.Satoru took over the task of supporting the clone body from Usopp. How should he handle this?Satoru's consciousness had only entered the small body, not his soul, so he couldn't use his abilities and thus couldn't turn the clone back into a bullet.Two options: carry it back.Or, stab the clone body's heart right now; if it dies, the clone body will revert to a bullet.Just as Satoru was making his decision, the clone suddenly whooshed and turned into a bullet.Satoru caught the bullet and opened his palm.Looking at the bullet in his palm, the fact that this happened meant that Blackbeard had already delivered Ace's body and soul to the Marines, and the seastone handcuffs had been put on.Satoru's face darkened further, and the idea of using Blackbeard's severed arm to slap Blackbeard across the face intensified."Satoru, does this mean the seastone handcuffshave been put on?"Ace asked."What else?"Satoru was in a very bad mood.Following the normal historical timeline while trying to change one part of it was indeed impossible."Satoru... can I ask what the situation is?""Or can I go back now?"Usopp silently raised his hand to ask a question. He suddenly felt that knowing about this situation might not be a good idea."Oh, I was focused on Satoru just now and ignored you.""You, long nose, you're a comrade on Luffy's ship, right? We've met."Ace greeted him.Usopp looked at him with a strange expression. How could we not have met, since you look exactly like Satoru!!!Usopp now suspected that Satoru was messing with him, punishing him for saying overly harsh things about the Merry."Satoru... of course we've met.""You... stop messing with me.""Hmm?"Ace processed the situation for a moment, then realized."Satoru, didn't you tell the others?""Also, what should we do now?""Go back and find Pops?""If only you still had your ability. I want to go back and reclaim my body, and your soul."Ace's intention was also to reclaim his body himself, but he figured that since Satoru's soul and abilities were currently absent, their strength was probably insufficient.And if he went alone, Satoru likely wouldn't agree.So, the high probability was returning to Pops. But would Satoru go back with him?However, he didn't know that Satoru had already made a decision."If you want to, then do it!""I already spoke with Whitebeard Pops. The two of us will go reclaim our bodies and souls ourselves. Regardless of the outcome, let's act first!"
Chapter 558: How to Explain?"That's great!"Ace was immediately excited when he heard Satorusay that he also planned to retrieve his body and soul himself.But then he worried about Satoru, "It's a pity your abilities aren't here now, and what's with this white hair?""Wait! Weren't your abilities suppressed by Sea Stone? Why is this clone of yours still here?""You let me enter your body.""And what about your current body???"Blind Ace finally noticed the key point."You finally noticed.""This is Little White's ability."Satoru briefly explained Little White's ability to Ace, essentially telling him that Little White could transform into a human, and his consciousness could project onto Little White."I see... I didn't expect a Little White Snake to have this ability."Ace understood."But I don't understand!""Satoru!""Why don't I leave first?"Usopp said. Whitebeard had just been mentioned, and Usopp felt that things were getting stranger. This was his strong suit: valuing his life over curiosity.Hearing Usopp, Satoru smiled at him, and Acelooked over as well."After seeing so much, Usopp, you still want to leave?""Too late."Satoru's words made Usopp feel as if two giant demon figures were standing before him.Usopp broke out in a cold sweat from fright."No, so? What exactly happened, Satoru?""Why was someone like Whitebeard mentioned?""And, what do you mean by you're going to retrieve your body and soul? Where are you going to retrieve them from??"Since he couldn't leave, Usopp decided to blurt out all his questions.But as he spoke, he didn't know whom to look at.One was white-haired Satoru, the other was normal Satoru.Satoru then repeated what he had told Robin to Usopp.The stacked buffs stunned Robin.But exploding in Usopp's mind, Usopp only felt that this was truly a matter of life and death, completely overwhelming him.And after Satoru's explanation, Ace also realized the seriousness of the situation. That's right, once the Marine discovered his identity, they definitely wouldn't let him live.His old man would come to save him.The Red Hair Pirates would come to save Satoru.Then it would truly be a world-level war."Usopp."Satoru tried calling out, but Usopp was still dazed, dumbfounded by the stacked buffs.If these buffs were to truly explode in the real world, the sea would not be calm."Usopp, remember not to tell Luffy.""Ace, think about how to tell Luffy."Facing the two, Satoru gave two different questions.Usopp nodded blankly, promising he wouldn't tell.But Ace didn't understand, "Tell Luffy, what?"Satoru sighed. He got on the Whitebeard Pirates' ship, gained strength, but not brains, right?"I am Luffy's crewmate. I'm going to be away for a while. Without the Captain's permission?""This is... a rule.""Otherwise, if I suddenly leave, you know Luffy's personality. He'll definitely look for clues to find me, and that will affect his next adventure."Ace nodded, feeling that Satoru made sense, and also felt a little ashamed.He himself went out to find Blackbeard, even though Whitebeard had told him not to bother. But Ace insisted that Blackbeard was his crewmate, and as Captain, he was responsible, so he still chased after him.His departure to pursue Blackbeard, in the end, was not approved by Whitebeard. Of course, he also didn't refuse, otherwise, how could Whitebeard not keep Ace?"Yes, Luffy's temper.""When I was a kid, I said I would bring a strong person out to sea, and Luffy even wanted to duel me. He really cares about comrades, that's good."Ace recalled his childhood memories.Speaking of childhood, Satoru finally smiled."I remember that incident. You were just saying it then, but Luffy got anxious.""…""You were just saying it, right?""If Luffy hadn't reacted that way, I wouldn't have just been saying it."Ace replied with a smile, hands clasped behind his head.Satoru looked at his own appearance making that pose. Anyway, he now had a reference for which actions not to make in the future."You're very confident."Satoru meant that if he hadn't left, Ace wouldn't have been able to take him, even if Satoru hadn't gone to sea yet and had little combat experience."Alright, enough about that.""Now, let's think about how to explain it.""How to explain?""How to tell Luffy!"..."You're not coming back with us?"Satoru and Ace were preparing to go to the Pirate House. Time was of the essence. It would be best if they could rescue Ace's body before it was taken to Impel Down."I... I'll think about it again!!!"Usopp replied, then bolted. It was already embarrassing enough that Satoru had heard what he said earlier; how was he supposed to go back now!The two "Satorus" watched Usopp's retreating figure, and Ace said,"I wanted to ask earlier, what do you mean by 'go back'?""Did he have a conflict with you guys?"Satoru told Ace about the going merry and Usopp's relationship with it.Ace heard this and replied,"He is loyal to the ship.""But he's too stubborn.""Things like leaving the pirate crew, even when angry, shouldn't be said carelessly.""If my crewmate dared to treat old man that way, I'd definitely beat him up!""Yes, that's why you're here now, and using my body."Ace: "..."..."Engagaga, once the log pose is full and the ship is built, you can continue your journey, right?""Do you know, following that log, what the next island is?"Kokoro came to visit everyone again. At this time, everyone had returned from shopping and were all present, except for Satoru.And speaking of Satoru, Satoru arrived, and there were two of them.With a click, the room door opened, and Satoru and Ace walked in."Satoru!"Everyone greeted them. Luffy and Chopper called out names, while the others just nodded."Eh? Two Satorus?"Chopper was puzzled.Luffy, however, said, "Isn't that normal?""Satoru, this is the watery candy we bought for you. Eat it."Luffy offered the watery candy. Satoru saw saliva on it, then looked at Luffy's mouth. Whose saliva it was, was self-evident.Ace couldn't help but laugh at this scene. Luffyhadn't changed. But thinking about the cake everyone prepared for him when they were kids, which Luffy also drooled on, he was still angry."Thank you, Luffy, I'm not hungry. You eat it.""Okay."Satoru replied, and no sooner had he finished speaking,Luffy immediately swallowed the watery candy in one gulp, without hesitation.
Chapter 559: Florian TriangleAfter a day, Ace arrived at Water 7 and successfully transferred his soul into Satoru's Main Body.Now there was no need to worry about Satoru's abilities being suppressed by Sea Stone, or the clone's body instantly turning into a bullet, leaving Ace's soul floating outside or trapped inside the bullet.It was impossible to be sure what would happen, as no one had experienced such a thing... Ace had arrived and reunited with Satoru; this was just the beginning. The next step was to rescue the Main Body, and the soul was the key.There was another important point: how to reasonably and normally let Satoru leave for a period to save his soul, without telling Luffy about Ace's Main Body and Satoru's soul being captured, otherwise Luffy would definitely insist on helping.So... "So, Satoru, what are you trying to do with another clone?"Nami asked."No, it seems...""What!""Just now I heard Kokoro say that the next stop on our route, where is the next stop?!"Nami noticed something was off. She originally thought that Satoru himself had woken up, and that the white-haired Satoru was now just 'Little Bai' himself. But the one who answered Luffy just now was still the white-haired Satoru, which meant Satoru's consciousness was still in Little Bai's body.Then this one beside her? Is it a clone? Where did Satoru's Main Body on the bed go?If it wasn't a clone, but the Main Body, and Satoru's consciousness was still in Little Bai, then how did this Main Body stand up? Was it a puppet show?!The more Nami thought about it, the more she felt something was wrong. Seeing that she was about to spill the beans without meaning to, Satoruimmediately raised his voice, interrupting Nami, and redirected the conversation to the route Kokoro had just mentioned, the next island.Seeing Satoru's reaction, Nami felt even more uneasy.But Kokoro also spoke, and Nami couldn't interrupt her."Enga ga ga, the next island is my hometown.""The underwater paradise, Fish-Man Island!"Upon hearing this, Sanji's eyes immediately turned into hearts, and he let out a sharp gasp."Eh!!!! Fish!!! Fish!!! Are we finally going to Fish-Man Island?!!!""Sanji! What's wrong with you?!"Chopper saw Sanji's reaction and thought it wasn't normal.Satoru also looked at Sanji, thinking that he shouldn't get too excited too soon. Although Fish-Man Island was close, it would probably take some time to get there.Even if history changed and Kuma didn't send them flying, Satoru wanted everyone to undergo special training before entering the New World. Otherwise, with their current strength, which was only slightly better than in the original history, they would only be swallowed by the surging waves of the New World.Look at the other Supernovas. Besides the Straw Hat Pirates and Law's Heart Pirates, none of the others who entered the New World fared well.While Sanji was happy about Fish-Man Island, Nami said, "Fish-Man Island... my feelings are a bit complicated.""Oh, is it because of what happened in your village?"Luffy asked.Zoro chimed in, "But those Fishmen (referring to Arlong and his crew) called themselves Fishmen, but they were actually Pirates, right?"Sanji spun his excited body, "Exactly, Fish-Man Island isn't filled with trash like them. Mosshead, you finally said something good.""Fish-Man Island is a famous scenic spot on the Grand Line.""Beautiful mermaids draw elegant arcs across the sea.""Playing around like fish, it's a dream kingdom!!!"Sanji seemed to already see mermaids in revealing clothes playing in the water, then he caught a glimpse of Kokoro."…""Can't you let me dream?! I'm a pirate!!"Sanji painfully pounded the ground, fearing that when he arrived at Fish-Man Island, there would be Kokoros everywhere.Kokoro also got angry, "There are!! There are young mermaids!!"Taking a sip of sake to calm down, Kokorocontinued."However, 'Paradise' isn't easy to reach."Robin thought the problem was underwater, "You said 'underwater' just now, I'm a little worried...""Oh, that's fine, the problem isn't there. You'll know when you go," Kokoro replied, then unfolded the newspaper on the table and pointed to one of the reports."Look at this report."Nami did as Kokoro said, reading the report aloud."Unknown terror in the mist, '14 more ships disappeared this month'!""What's going on?"Kokoro smiled, but with her face... it was terrifying."The Florian Triangle!""That's the only way to get to Paradise!""All sea routes pass through there. Only by passing through there can you reach Fish-Man Island and then enter the New World."The Sabaody Archipelago is the end of the first half of the Grand Line. No matter which route, all ships must gather here, get coated, then pass through Fish-Man Island to enter the New World. After entering, the routes diverge again.Therefore, the Sabaody Archipelago is the most suitable place for auctions.Firstly, it's close to Marineford and Mary Geoise, which is convenient for the arrival of Celestial Dragons, who are big customers.Secondly, pirates entering the New World gather here, making it suitable for acquiring 'auction items' on the spot."Nearly a hundred pirate ships disappear in that sea area every year... Afterwards, empty ships are found without a single person on board.""And people constantly witness 'ghost ships' drifting on the sea, carrying the dead!"Hearing Kokoro recount this rumor, everyone reacted differently.Chopper, who believes everything, said, "Will monsters come out!! So scary!!!""Will we encounter a living skeleton?!"This was Luffy's prediction."A living skeleton!! Just thinking about it is interesting."This was said by Satoru, who is a fan of Brook.Zoro, however, thought it impossible, "What are you two thinking? Satoru, you..."It wasn't strange for Luffy to believe it, but with Satoru believing it too, Zoro suddenly wondered if it might actually be true?Nami trembled with fear, being a girl after all, "Ugh! I don't want to encounter it, I don't even want to see it! Such a terrifying ship!!""What on earth is happening in that sea area?!"Kokoro pulled out a candle from somewhere, illuminating her face, "Enga ga ga.""Who knows? Because... no one who encountered it has ever come out alive, so no one knows!!""It's a foggy, sunless sea area."Nami and Chopper hugged each other, crying in fear.Kokoro stopped messing around, put down the candle, and said seriously, "In short, it's a very dangerous sea area where many incidents happen. You must be prepared before sailing."While others were excited or scared, Robin's reaction was, "Merchant ships and pirate ships turning into ghost ships... there must be legendary treasure ships with hidden treasures."Satoru agreed."Possibly, who knows if there's any treasure left behind."Nami's expression instantly changed, "Let's go find the ghost ship!""Leave it to me!!!"Luffy was excited again; he gets excited about anything involving adventure and food.Chopper didn't care for money; he was still scared.Sanji said he had prepared plenty of food for the voyage.Zoro, meanwhile, was thinking, 'There should be swords on a treasure ship, right?'As for Satoru, seeing everyone's excited faces, he was even less inclined to tell Luffy the truth.
Chapter 560: The curse of the Little White FamilyKokoro arrived and gave everyone a crash course on the Florian Triangle.Everyone was happy instead, wanting to go on an adventure to find ghost ships and treasure ships.Satoru was also happy; after all, among his comrades in his previous life, he liked that not-so-gentlemanly gentleman skeleton the most.Unfortunately, this time he probably wouldn't be able to go to the Florian Triangle with everyone... "We're well-prepared, just waiting for the Log Pose to finish recording and the ship to be built, then we can set off.""That's great.""However, I have something to say, Luffy."As Satoru spoke, Robin and Zoro were the first to look at him, and everyone else's attention also turned to Satoru.Ace was also curious; he wondered what Satoruwould say, because they had discussed it for so long by the coast earlier, and the conclusion was zero."What is it, Satoru?"Luffy asked.Satoru feigned dejection, "You're also curious why my consciousness is currently in Little White, and why my own body can still move?""That's because Little White's soul is in my body.""We swapped souls.""What?!"Everyone was surprised, including Ace.And Little White in the consciousness space."Yes, that's right.""As for why we swapped souls.""It's because of Little White… their family's curse!"Satoru gave a masterful performance.Everyone was shocked again, "A curse?!""Yes.""Little White's family is… the Tengshe Tribe. They are a sparsely populated race on the sea, a kind of tribe that can transform into snakes.""Originally, before they reach adulthood at eighteen, they maintain their snake form, occasionally able to transform into human form. Only after eighteen can they freely maintain either human or snake form.""Their tribe is skilled in using ice, so they were envied by someone who ate a curse devil fruit and were cursed.""Their tribe's eighteen-year-old coming-of-age ceremony became a curse. On the day they shed their skin to become human, their whole body feels as hot as if being boiled in oil.""The closer it gets to that day, the more uncomfortable it becomes. Only by enduring it can they be considered to have overcome the curse.""Otherwise, they will completely disappear, leaving only a snakeskin behind.""And the legendary Geocentric Spring Water can help their Snake-Human tribe. We have already determined the location of the Geocentric Spring.""Moreover, Little White's eighteenth birthday is in a few days.""His soul swap with me can reduce the burning sensation because it's my soul, and my soul hasn't been cursed, so he won't feel the heat in my body. And when he's in my body, the heat he feels will also be reduced.""Right, Little White?"Satoru nudged Ace's shoulder.Because Ace was stunned; he hadn't expected Satoru to concoct such a story in such a short time.Satoru thought: I was a web novel author in my previous life, alright?Little White was also stunned. What curse? What shedding skin to become human? What hot as if being boiled in oil? How come I don't know about this??? This wasn't in the script???Robin and Zoro were also stunned. Good heavens, Satoru, you can really spin a tale to trick Luffy.When Ace and Satoru entered, they had already figured out that he was Ace.Jarred by Satoru's nudge, Ace snapped back to attention and nodded in reply."Yes, Satoru is right.""That's… how it is."Ever since they became sworn brothers in childhood, Ace had never lied to Luffy. Now, lying to him made him feel a little bad, but knowing that it was for Luffy's own good, he had no choice but to do it."Wuwuwu, you've really been through a lot, Little White."Chopper pounced and hugged Ace.Ace looked at the crying Chopper, feeling a bit flustered."Ah… this… you… I… I'm fine…""To think Little White has such a background."Sanji sighed."He's indeed quite pitiful. However, Little White's power could freeze the Aqua Laguna tsunami earlier; this curse is too formidable."Nami also sighed; she had witnessed Little White's strength firsthand.Zoro and Robin remained silent. As those who knew the truth, they didn't know what to say."Is that so?""Little White, you've really endured a lot.""It's alright, you're Satoru's pet, and that makes you our comrade too!!""We'll change course and go to the Geocentric Spring, don't worry!!"Luffy smiled and made a promise.Ace smiled; Luffy was still Luffy.But this wasn't what Satoru wanted."No!""Luffy, the Geocentric Spring is far from our current course. If we go, it will change our route, and the unknowns will increase.""Moreover, the Geocentric Spring is fraught with danger, with… giant plants and dinosaurs, and even subterranean people.""Subterranean people?! That sounds so interesting!!"Luffy's eyes sparkled, and he became even more interested.Satoru rubbed his forehead with a bitter smile; he shouldn't have said so much."Luffy, I know you're interested, but don't be interested right now.""Little White's matter can't be delayed, but our new ship still needs time to be built.""So, I want to go with Little White alone.""With our strength, the dangers in the Earth's core are nothing.""You all just wait in Water Seven. Once the new ship is ready, you can set off; you don't have to wait for us.""We'll catch up to you, just like that time on Sky Island."After hearing Satoru's words, Luffy thought about it and realized it was true; they didn't have a ship now, so they couldn't set sail even if they wanted to."Alright, there's no other way. Then Satoru, just like on Sky Island, leave a clone behind."Luffy unintentionally said two things that put Satoruin a difficult position."Uh…""There's no other way. You see, my body has been lent to Little White, so I can't use my abilities temporarily, but I can use Little White's abilities. Little White is very strong.""Huh?!""You can't even leave a clone behind…"Luffy felt dejected. If he could, he naturally wouldn't want his comrades to leave the group, to leave him."Luffy…"Ace spoke up, unable to bear it.Satoru pinched his waist, telling him to shut up and not give it away.Ace was in so much pain that tears came to his eyes. Still, he thought, this is your body, Satoru!"Luffy, there's no other way.""For Little White."Little White: Hehe… "I have to go.""But I also promise, I will come back.""I promise."Luffy met Satoru's gaze and couldn't resist the plea in his eyes, "Alright, I believe you'll come back, Satoru.""But Satoru, don't you two also not have a ship?"Nami raised the question.Satoru replied with a smile, "That problem has been solved. Just now on the coast, we met a kind person who can give us a ride, and they also have a Log Pose pointing to the island where the Geocentric Spring is located."The kind person, Kama, thought: I really am kind.(Brother Satoru, can you put down the gun now
Chapter 561: This is GrowthSatoru and Ace were leaving to retrieve their bodies and souls, which had been pressed into Impel Down.Currently, only Robin, Zoro, and Usopp knew Satoruand Ace's true objective, including the fact that Ace's soul was now in Satoru's body.Satoru also fabricated a "curse" for Little Bai's "family" to trick Luffy into believing that he and "Little Bai" needed to leave for a while.Robin and Zoro, who knew the truth and were present, remained silent.Meanwhile, Luffy was still worried about whether Satoru and the others had a ship, which made Satoru and Ace, these two older brothers… feel ashamed… But! Not telling Luffy was also for Luffy's own good!…"A kind person?"Luffy was worried that Satoru and the others had no ship to go to the "Geothermal Spring," but Satorutold Luffy that a kind person was willing to take them."Yes."This kind person naturally referred to Kama, who had brought Ace to Water Seven. Although Satoruhad told him to stay, he either actually stayed or took the opportunity to escape. Satoru couldn't be sure, but at least it meant Luffy didn't have to worry."We met a… merchant ship on the coast earlier. Their route happens to pass by the island where the Geothermal Spring is located, and they're willing to give us a ride.""He's a kind person."Satoru replied."Is that so? That's great.""Our new ship needs to be built. Franky said it will take another five days. It would be best if you could make it back within five days."Luffy replied with a wide smile."Yes, that would be for the best…"Satoru nodded. If only they really had five days. Unfortunately, he remembered that under the tireless efforts of Franky and his four companions, the thousand sunny was completed in three days.The distance for him and Ace to go to Impel Downand return would not be covered in three days; the ocean was not that small."Then, we're off."Satoru said.When these words left his mouth, everyone's heart trembled. It was false to say they weren't reluctant; their comrades were also like family.Especially Robin and Zoro, who knew how dangerous Satoru's journey would be."Satoru…""Oh, one more thing."Everyone had prepared their emotions, but Satorusaid this, making them fall off their seats."Is there anything else?"Nami asked."It's about Usopp."Satoru replied.When Usopp was mentioned, everyone fell silent again. After Usopp left, they rarely brought him up.Luffy, Chopper: Sniper King isn't Usopp."He's coming back.""Sanji, you must have heard him too. He was practicing on the coast, right?"Satoru looked at Sanji, and everyone followed his gaze.Sanji held a cigarette between his fingers, "Yeah, when I went fishing, I heard him practicing by himself on the coast. Then Satoru also arrived at the coast and chatted with Usopp.""Really! Then let's go pick him up!""Oh!!"Luffy and Chopper were very excited.Nami knew without guessing, "He really cares about his pride.""Great, Usopp is coming back!!"Luffy stood up, ready to run and find Usopp.Zoro spoke, "Stop!!""Wait, Luffy."Satoru also grabbed Luffy's hand at the same time, but with his arm stretched, Luffy still ran to the door. However, hearing Zoro and Satoru's words, he stopped and turned back.Everyone, just like Luffy, was puzzled and looked at Satoru and Zoro.Zoro looked at Satoru.Satoru looked at Zoro.Understanding that Satoru shared his opinion, Zorolooked at Luffy."Who dares to go pick him up! I absolutely forbid it.""Even if he misunderstood you, you cannot give in! Luffy!""Unless he takes the initiative to bow his head and admit his mistake, he cannot be forgiven!""Zoro!!""How can you be so heartless!!"Accusations from Chopper and Nami."Shut up!!""No matter what caused Luffy and Usopp's initial argument, and no matter who was right…""Once men decide on a 'duel,' victory or defeat determines everything.""He lost, and he arbitrarily left the crew.""All of you understand, no matter how foolish this guy is, he is the 'Captain'."Zoro pulled Luffy's cheek."Someone who cannot support the Captain at a critical moment is better off without.""If the Captain loses his prestige, the team will inevitably collapse!""Zoro is right."Satoru picked up where Zoro left off."Comradeship is indeed important.""But this is a major matter of leaving the Pirate Crew.""Even if our relationship with Usopp is good, we cannot actively seek out Usopp and ask him to come back.""This is the rule. The 'Captain' is not just a simple title; the Captain is the core that holds the entire pirate crew together!""Since it was Usopp's own decision, whether it was impulsive or not, he must take responsibility for his actions.""This is growth.""This matter cannot simply be overlooked, which is why I specifically brought it up."Zoro nodded, deeply agreeing with Satoru's words. It was truly good to have someone in the crew who shared his thoughts."As Satoru said, the Captain is the core that holds the entire team together.""If the person above me makes a wrong decision!! Then I will leave next time too!""Regarding this matter with Usopp, it must be resolved cleanly and decisively. I will absolutely not allow it to be glossed over!""If not… then leave Usopp on this island."Upon hearing this, Nami and Chopper both felt it was too much, and Luffy was stunned, digesting Satoru and Zoro's words."Eh?!!"Nami said."Don't get excited, Zoro, he certainly made mistakes!""But we have to wait for him to come back, and then say what needs to be said…"Nami was halfway through her sentence when Zorodrew his sword and plunged it into the floor."Is leaving your comrades such a simple matter?!!"Nami was startled, "No… but…"Sanji exhaled a puff of smoke, "Miss Nami… I'm sorry, but this time, I think Satoru and this guy are right."Zoro continued."If he can just throw a tantrum and leave whenever he wants, and come back whenever he wants, how can we trust him in the future?!"Satoru sighed, "It's simple to come back, but Usoppjust needs to say he's sorry.""He said those things because of Merry, and he wasn't wrong because he loved Merry. But he was also wrong, because Merry is a comrade, and so are we. As a crewmate, he shouldn't have distrusted the Captain."Zoro returned his sword to its sheath."That's right!! We're not playing some pirate make-believe."Luffy's mind replayed Satoru and Zoro's words, and he also remembered the day of his duel with Usopp.Luffy was in a dilemma. His feelings for his comrades ran deep, but he also understood Zoroand Satoru's words. If he insisted on casually bringing Usopp back, it would be irresponsible to his other comrades."That's right, he has already parted ways with us.""During the time from the completion of the new ship until we set sail, we will wait for him to come to us.""Otherwise… we'll leave him on this island!!"
Chapter 562: He and I Have the Same Idea"Well, there's nothing left to say.""We're leaving.""We can't delay; we need to reach the Earth's Core Spring in time."Usopp's matter was settled, and now it was time for Satoru and Ace to leave."Mhm, I know. Satoru, I agree to your departure this time, but you have to promise you'll come back."Luffy smiled in return. That 'I agree' part, he was quick to learn and use it.Satoru also laughed in return."Hahaha, Captain Luffy, with your approval, I can rest assured."With that, Satoru pulled Ace up.Chopper came over and hugged Satoru and Ace."Wuwuwu, please come back safely.""I'll miss you guys.""We'll miss you too, Chopper.""We won't be gone long."Satoru ruffled Chopper's head.Nami put her hands on her hips. "Hmph, without my navigation skills, you two will have a tough time.""But Satoru, you should have learned it by now, so I'm not worried.""Just come back soon."Satoru nodded."Indeed, it would be difficult without Miss Nami for navigation, but we can make do.""Hmph, I've gotten used to cooking for so many. More is fine, but one less is a bit annoying. Remember to come back soon."These were Sanji's words; everyone was more or less a little tsundere.Satoru replied with a smile."I will. I was just thinking, what would I do without Sanji's cooking?"Sanji turned his face away, slightly flushed, and happened to meet Zoro's gaze.Zoro's expression said, 'Why are you blushing?'"I'll see you off.""I'll see you off."Zoro and Robin coincidentally said the same thing at the same time.The scene fell silent.Luffy said, "Hahaha, why don't we all go see them off?""No need, Luffy!"Before Satoru could say anything, Zoro spoke first.He had something to say to Satoru; how could he say it if Luffy followed?Robin agreed.Satoru picked up where Zoro left off."Mhm, listen to Zoro. He and Sister Robin seeing us off will be enough.""You guys go about your business.""Oh, that's fine too. Have a safe journey."Luffy had just been lectured by Satoru and Zoro, so now whatever Zoro and Satoru said, Luffyimmediately agreed.Satoru and Ace immediately slipped away.Zoro and Robin followed to see them off.After the four of them left the house, the room gradually quieted down....Suddenly, Sanji thought, "We... don't seem to have anything to be busy with..."...On the way to the coast.Satoru had Zoro on his left and Robin on his right. Ace didn't know which side to stand on, so he could only walk behind them."You two are 'cool' to the point of being scary."Satoru joked, referring to them standing on either side, yet not saying a word.In reality, both Robin and Zoro were just waiting for the other to speak first.Robin chuckled, "I have nothing to say. I won't tell Luffy, I truly just wanted to see Satoru off.""Really? You won't end up coming with us?"Satoru replied, afraid that Robin might 'hoist him by his own petard'.Robin said, "I'm aware of my own strength. Going to that place would only hold you back."Satoru smiled, "Don't underestimate yourself, Sister Robin. With your identity, you'd at least be in the fifth level there, so it's best not to go."Hearing this, Robin just smiled and said nothing."So then, my dear Zoro, what about you? What do you want to say?"Satoru turned the 'microphone' to Zoro.Listening to Satoru's affected tone, Zoro responded with a cold expression."Regarding Usopp's matter, the things you said proved that you understand.""This time, you had no choice but to deceive Luffy.""The place you're going is a dangerous place that all pirates avoid. I just want to ask you, what if you don't come back?""Should I tell Luffy?""Answer me."Zoro's gaze was very firm."Indeed, the destination is extremely perilous; who knows what the outcome will be.""If we don't come back, the newspapers will tell you, no need for you to say it.""I only ask that before that, you don't tell Luffy. It would affect his adventurous spirit.""Consider it a request from us two unqualified older brothers."Zoro glanced at Ace behind him. "Luffy doesn't acknowledge you as an older brother; he wants to be your older brother.""Coincidentally, he and I have the same idea."Satoru replied.They walked and talked, and soon reached the coast.Kama's ship was still there, which surprised Satoru; he thought the kid would curse him and sail away."See? I told you there were kind people.""Then let's get on board."Satoru said, then pulled Ace to board the ship.Robin crossed her arms, looked at Satoru's back, and suddenly said."Satoru, why are you in such a mood?""If I were in such a situation, I'd be on the verge of collapsing; at the very least, I wouldn't be smiling.""Are you like this because you've already seen something?"Robin firmly believed Satoru possessed the 'Eye of Foresight' that could see the future, after all, Satoruwas someone with a script.Satoru turned his back to them, thinking,'So Robinthinks that way? That's good too; it'll make them worry less.'In reality, Satoru had no damn script for this Impel Down journey; he didn't know what would happen.He also knew this trip was extremely dangerous, but being emotionally distraught and depressed would only make the danger even greater. His relaxed demeanor was naturally feigned.All emotions needed to be expressed, but there was no time now; he'd save it for later."That's right, I've seen some fragments. I can't guarantee 100% success, but I can guarantee I won't die!"Satoru stopped and gave them a side profile, with the sunlight shining on him, looking quite handsome."Let's go!!"Satoru and Ace jumped directly onto the ship.Seeing this, Kama also gave orders to weigh anchor and set sail.Satoru turned to look at Robin and Zoro on the shore, waving his hand."I'll be back as soon as possible."...The ship gradually sailed away.Zoro and Robin watched from the shore as the ship disappeared over the horizon.During this process, Zoro kept his hand on his sword hilt."Satoru is hiding many things from us.""His strength is one of them.""He can already see what the world's top combat power is like.""And we know nothing."Robin turned and walked back, speaking as she went."Hehehe... Yes, he has many secrets.""We truly cannot participate in battles with the world's top combat power right now.""But I believe that one day, Luffy will lead us to personally participate in them."
Chapter 563: Reasonable"I'm quite surprised, you brat, you didn't leave."This is what Satoru said to Kama. He was very surprised that the kid didn't take the ship and leave while they were away, after all, Satoru had swindled him out of several hundred million Berries.Kama sat on his sofa chair, looking arrogant. "Although I, Kama, am not a good person, I am at least one who repays kindness. You saved my life, and letting you hitch a ride is nothing. I'm not that petty."Saying that, Kama picked up his red wine glass, asked first, then drank, "Where are you going next?""Impel Down.""Pfft!!!!"Hearing Satoru's answer, Kama directly spat out a mouthful of red wine."Wh-what? What did you say??""Your next destination is where? Impel Down??!""Are you crazy?"Satoru and Ace both remained calm. Ace replied,"To get my body back, going to Impel Down is a must."Kama was stunned. He knew that Ace and Satoruhad swapped souls, after all, he also knew about the heart of jade and had transported Ace to Water Seven."...I think you're pretty good in Satoru's body, and doesn't Satoru also have another body? Just leave it at that."To Kama's words, Ace and Satoru gave him a "you're so smart" smile.Satoru couldn't always keep Ace in Xiaobai's body. Even if he could, it would mean Satoru would lose the ability of the Replication Fruit.Ace also couldn't always occupy Satoru's body. Even if Satoru was willing, Ace himself wouldn't accept it.The main thing is that Ace has a special identity. No matter what, he has to be rescued, whether they succeed or not is another matter.After a moment of silence, Kama hesitated to speak.Satoru looked at him. "I know what you're going to say.""Is it still too late for us to get off?""Right?"Kama didn't answer, Satoru continued."Even if you don't say it, we're still going down.""Because... do you know how to get to Impel Down? Do you have a permanent log pose for Impel Down?"This was another problem: how to get to Impel Down.As pirates, Satoru and the others naturally couldn't have a permanent log pose for Impel Down, and as a member of the Black Hand Gang, Satoru didn't think Kama would either.Impel Down doesn't just imprison pirates; it also holds members of the Black Hand Gang and national war criminals.The Celestial Dragons, who see everything in the world as theirs, as their slaves and playthings, are not held there.After speaking, Satoru didn't wait for Kama's answer, nor did he care about Ace's words, and directly closed his eyes. He had to figure out a way to get to Impel Down.The only clue he remembered about Impel Down's location was... Impel Down is located in the Calm Belt.It forms a triangle with Enies Lobby on Enies Lobbyand Marineford, the location of MarineHeadquarters.There are many huge whirlpool currents between these three places, and these three places also have the Gate of Justice.Ordinary ships cannot open the Gate of Justice and will just spin in the whirlpools. Only by opening the Gate of Justice and letting seawater flow in can ships reach these places. So, this means only Marinewarships can pass through the Gate of Justice to enter these three places.This is another problem. Even if they find Impel Down, how do they get in? Push open the Gate of Justice with their bare hands? Not even Garp could necessarily do that.Ace saw Satoru close his eyes in thought and swallowed the words, "Yes, that's a problem, Satoru, do you have any ideas?" He didn't disturb Satoru.Satoru chose to close his eyes and ponder, first, he was genuinely pondering, and second, Xiaobai was calling him... "How can we reasonably open the Gate of Justice and enter?"In the consciousness space, "Exhibitionist" Xiaobai watched Satoru approach, muttering as he walked. Because it was consciousness, Satoru looked as he normally did, his hair still black.Inside the consciousness space, the over two-meter tall Xiaobai had a heroic face, an imposing aura without being angry, and a smile that seemed to hold a hint of indulgence.With flowing white hair, strange scarlet eyes, and a tall, sturdy physique, he was undeniably handsome.Satoru wasn't sure if this was Xiaobai's true appearance.Satoru only knew that when Xiaobai transformed into human form, he seemed to be able to change his appearance. For example, his current body, from a two-meter tall strong man, had become almost identical to Satoru, except for his hair color."Oh dear, isn't this my savior, Lord Little Bai~""Are we almost at the Geothermal Spring? I'm practically being burned to death.""So hot, so hot~~~"Xiaobai greeted him with a sarcastic tone.Satoru was still thinking about how to get to Impel Down and ignored him.Ignored him!?Xiaobai was very displeased.A tail emerged from his back, stretched out, wrapped around Satoru's waist, and pulled him closer.Satoru was pulled by this and snapped out of his thoughts."What are you doing, Xiaobai?""Don't disturb me while I'm trying to think of a solution.""How heartless, Little Bai.""Didn't we come out this time just to help me overcome the curse? What else do we need to think about?"Xiaobai replied.Satoru knew he was being sarcastic because he hadn't consulted him and had made up something about him."Consider it that I owe you a favor, alright?""I don't have time to mess around with you right now. I really need to figure out a way to get to Impel Down quickly."Xiaobai's tail pulled again, directly bringing Satoru in front of him. He lowered his head, his eyes staring intently at Satoru."What are you doing? Let's talk properly."Satoru tried to struggle free, but the tail was bound tightly."How many favors do you... owe me now, and I haven't seen you repay any."Xiaobai said with a "piteous" expression."And I haven't seen you ask for any either."Satoru replied, if he wanted to repay a favor, "Then tell me what you need.""Hehehe... I don't need anything for now.""Alright, I forgive you."Xiaobai loosened his tail and put Satoru down.Satoru rubbed his waist; that fellow had squeezed him until his waist hurt, but he didn't forget to continue thinking about how to get to Impel Down.Seeing Satoru's pained expression in thought, Xiaobai smiled, "I remember that orange-haired girl said Impel Down is where you pirates are imprisoned, right?""So, to enter reasonably, there are three types of people: Marines, the World Government, or... pirates.""Being captured and taken in, isn't that perfectly reasonable?"As soon as Xiaobai said this, Satoru almost cursed back, but on second thought, he realized, 'That's right!'Being captured and taken in is very reasonable.Of course, he couldn't be captured under the identity of Copy cat Satoru, or he would be wearing seastone handcuffs.To enter this way, it's best to disguise himself as an ordinary pirate from an ordinary pirate crew, be captured with ordinary handcuffs, and then immediately break free from the handcuffs upon entering Impel Down and begin the rescue.This is the best method, because even if he disguised himself as a Marine, without orders from headquarters or the World Government, he couldn't enter Impel Down. In the original history, Vice Admiral Momonga, who brought Empress Hancock, was stopped outside.Having thought of a solution, Satoru's mood improved at least a little."It's really you, thanks, Xiaobai."Satoru's consciousness left and returned to the real world.Xiaobai looked at where Satoru had been, his smile still on his face."Hehehe... what do I need, huh...""What if I said I need your body, Little Bai..." (No misunderstanding, no lewdness)