Chapter 336 Trouble
If someone who kills ordinary people as easily as ants can be called a Monster, then there are so many Monsters in this World.
But those who can truly stand at the Summit of the World are often only a select few.
And Douglas Bullet is undoubtedly one of those Monsters standing at the Summit of the World.
Facing the attacks of the three major Logia Type, Bullet remained standing tall.
"You Cannon Fodder, you were able to capture Roger? What a joke for the Dominion!"
Bullet twisted his neck, and his Fighting Spirit, fueled by anger within his Body, intensified.
Combined with his burly Figure and Evil Ghost-like Manner.
The Navy soldiers surrounding him were intimidated by Bullet's Terror Aura, and subconsciously took a step back.
Even without Observation Haki, Bullet could clearly sense the Fear in the Inner Thoughts of these Elite Navy soldiers.
So weak...
How could Roger have been captured by Navy like this?
Just then, Aokiji on the side took action.
"Ice Time!"
Aokiji appeared beside Bullet and raised his Right Hand, as a wave of cold Aura surged towards Bullet.
Whether it was excessive arrogance or simply his style.
Facing Aokiji's Ice Time, Bullet showed no intention of dodging.
"Oh my, that's really arrogant!!!"
Aokiji's Eyes flashed coldly, and with a Thought, the frigid Freezing Air instantly encased Bullet in a Giant ice ball.
Looking at the restrained Bullet, Aokiji said with a Smile, "Looks like you forgot your Opponent isn't just me."
Before he could finish, the Hill-sized ice ball shattered in an instant, and scattered ice crystals fell from the Sky.
Bullet stood unharmed amidst the Residue of ice blocks scattered on the Ground.
"..."
Seeing Bullet easily break free from his control, Aokiji's Complexion turned somewhat grim. Although he didn't expect to defeat Bullet in one move, was it really that difficult to even restrain his Action for a short time?
This kind of well-rounded Warrior is really troublesome.
Although he failed to completely restrain Bullet, he still created an Opportunity for Sakazuki and Borsalino to Attack.
There's no need to be honorable with Pirates, right?
Whoosh—!
Borsalino, who ate the Glint-Glint Fruit and gained the Speed of Radiance, arrived above Bullet almost instantaneously.
Then his entire Form began to emit a dazzling Radiance.
"Yasakani no Magatama"
Bang bang bang...!
Countless Light Bullets, carrying immense Energy, rained down on Bullet's Body like a storm, unleashing visible Air Waves.
Bullet's Body was shaken incessantly by the relentless Attack.
And almost as soon as Kizaru's Attack ceased.
A Magma Fist radiating terrifying heat, imbued with Monstrous Strength, struck Bullet heavily in the Waist.
Bang!
The power of that Fist unleashed a terrifying Air Wave that reverberated in all directions.
"As expected of Vice Admiral Kizaru, he's really strong!"
"After taking that Fist from Vice Admiral Sakazuki, that Weapon is surely done for."
Many Navy Soldiers watching this Scene were understandably excited. Bullet's strength was clear to everyone, yet such a powerful Weapon was being suppressed by their Navy's three Elite Vice Admirals. How could they not be excited?
But they soon realized something was amiss.
Although Bullet was being pushed back by the combined forces of Kuzan, Borsalino, and Sakazuki, but...
"He's, he's laughing...!!!"
Many Navy Soldiers watched in astonishment as Bullet grinned, a Smile spreading across his face. The Fist Mark on his Waist, red-hot like a branding iron, showed he had indeed taken a heavy blow from Sakazuki. If not for Armament Haki protection, that Fist could have blown away half his Body.
Sakazuki, having returned his Magma Arm to its normal State, naturally saw Bullet's undisguised Smile.
"What's so funny!!!"
Sakazuki's Complexion darkened, both Fists were once again covered in Magma, and molten Magma dripped onto the Ground.
Facing Sakazuki's question, Bullet's Smile only widened.
He casually ripped off his tattered clothes and threw them to the Ground.
Revealing his heavily muscled Body, now covered in numerous Wounds, especially the gruesome Wound on his lower Waist.
But Bullet seemed unfazed, still grinning, looking excitedly at the three powerful Opponents before him.
Bang—!
Suddenly, a muffled Sound.
It was Bullet who crossed his Arms and precisely blocked Sakazuki's Fist.
"Hmm?!"
Seeing his Attack suddenly blocked, Sakazuki's Complexion shifted.
Clearly, he hadn't anticipated Bullet being so forceful. Even with Armament Haki protection, the intense heat of Magma would still cause burns.
Seeing Sakazuki's Complexion suddenly change, Bullet grinned coldly.
"Surprise!"
Before the Words finished, Bullet suddenly grabbed backhanded, seizing Sakazuki's Arm and yanking him forward. With a hissing sound, Sakazuki's Body lost Balance and toppled towards him.
Immediately after, on Bullet's other Arm, a massive Fist glowed with a red, fluid-like Radiance.
"Intentional Blast Punch!"
Bullet unleashed a sudden Fist, striking Sakazuki directly in the Face.
Boom!
Terrifying force concentrated on Sakazuki's Face. Suddenly materialized Haki (Qi Strength) deformed Sakazuki's Face and created visible Wave-like Air Currents behind his Body.
Enduring such a heavy blow, Sakazuki spat out a mouthful of Blood, his Eyes rolled back, and his Consciousness blurred for a moment.
Then his Body paused for less than a second before being sent flying backwards like a Shell, smashing into a Building hundreds of meters away in the blink of an eye.
Rumble——!
The Building Sakazuki crashed into instantly turned into Ruins, sending up a cloud of Dust.
Bullet watched the Dust Cloud rise into the Sky, slowly retracting his Fist, and smirked at Borsalino and Kuzan. "Your turn."
This sudden Scene left the watching Navy Soldiers dumbfounded.
They couldn't believe Sakazuki had been so easily sent flying.
That was an Elite Vice Admiral from Marine Headquarters, with his own Title, a Monster who could become an Admiral when the Opportunity arose.
"Is that Conqueror's Haki Infusion? How interesting..."
Borsalino looked at the Ruins Sakazuki had created in the distance, and the image of Bullet's Fist, enveloped in a flowing red aura, flashed through his mind.
"Small Fries are such an eyesore."
Watching the increasing number of Navy Soldiers surrounding him, Bullet slowly suppressed his Smile, and a chilling Red Light ignited in his Eyes.
He enjoyed battling the Strongest, but that didn't mean he was willing to be observed like a monkey in a zoo during his Battle.
Conqueror's Haki!
As Bullet's Words fell, a red Presence radiated from his terrifying Body, instantly sweeping through the Bodies of the surrounding Navy Soldiers.
"Is that Conqueror's Haki like Admiral Sengoku's?"
Before Kuzan could finish speaking, the Sounds of heavy objects collapsing to the Ground echoed around them.
Glancing sideways, he saw Navy Soldiers around him with rolled-back eyes, collapsing to the Ground, unable to stand.
As the Conqueror's Haki Aura swept through, within seconds, only a few dozen out of the thousands of Navy Soldiers in the area remained conscious.
This outcome made Aokiji's heart sink. He knew these People had lost their Action Ability, and if caught in the Aftershock of the Battle, they would surely die.
"Sigh, this is troublesome."
Exchanging a look with Borsalino beside him, the Two people saw the trouble in each other's Eyes.
"Continue then. I Hope you can give me more Surprise."
Bullet stepped forward, continuously smashing his Fists together.
Suddenly, a Sound echoed from within Loguetown.
"Sakazuki, Borsalino, and Kuzan, I'm giving you three one hour, life or death. If you still can't take down that Weapon, Kizaru, you're working Overtime until you drop dead. Sakazuki, you're going to East Blue Branch 16 for life, and don't even think about returning to Marine Headquarters. As for Kuzan, you're helping Tsuru with Navy Internal Affairs Official Business!"
As Sengoku's Words echoed, Bullet clearly sensed a shift in the Aura of the three Weapons facing him.
It seemed the three Weapons opposite had shifted from slacking off to getting Seriously.
ps: The drama between the Qidian authors is really exciting, more interesting than the novel itself. Wonder if there will be more single chapter updates later. Aba Aba~(╯°Д°)╯
(End of Chapter)
Chapter 337: Racism is Unacceptable
Every year, the World Government holds a meeting with the Celestial Dragons in the Holy Land Mary Geoise.
However, the main participants in this meeting are not the representative kings of the fifty-plus World Government affiliated nations, as in the World Conference.
Instead, representatives from the over two hundred affiliated nations under the World Government travel from all over the world to Mary Geoise, bringing the Celestial Tribute paid by their countries to the Celestial Dragons.
This is also the only major meeting organized by the World Government that the Celestial Dragons attend.
It is a grand event, attracting the attention of all Celestial Dragons.
Because during this grand feast, they will divide among themselves a fortune unimaginable to ordinary people for a lifetime.
Besides money, it also gathers various rare birds and beasts, exotic treasures, and peerless beauties from the Four Blues and the Grand Line.
On this day, it can be said that most of the world's scarce resources will be freely enjoyed by the Celestial Dragons.
With the date for the Celestial Tribute payment approaching, to ensure the smooth division of benefits, the Celestial Dragons and even the World Government personally dispatched forces under their command to escort the ships of various countries coming to pay the tribute.
Even the Marines had to allocate some of their forces.
Consequently, combined with the troops needed for Roger's execution, the Marines' forces were actually stretched somewhat thin.
If circumstances allowed, Sengoku would actually prefer to take the opportunity to deal with the pirates coming to Loguetown to witness Roger's execution, rather than dispatching Marines to escort the Celestial Tribute.
Because he clearly knew that many of the pirates coming to watch Roger's execution would become destabilizing factors affecting the seas in the future.
But he also knew the World Government would definitely not agree with his idea.
After all, compared to the attitude of the Celestial Dragons, pirates were merely minor problems.
The annual Celestial Tribute payment was extremely important, so important that the World Government would not allow any mishaps to occur.
In the New World, on a deserted island near the Red Line.
Nicholas and Dragon met with their arriving guests.
"The Celestial Tribute offering..."
Fisher Tiger spoke; he was the one representing Fish-Man Island to meet Nicholas and Dragon.
At the time of the Celestial Tribute payment, Fish-Man Island, as one of the former World Government affiliated nations, was naturally included.
However, after Fish-Man Island announced its withdrawal from the World Government affiliated nations, it naturally no longer needed to pay the Celestial Tribute, nor could it participate in the World Conference held every four years.
Fisher Tiger came to see Nicholas to discuss the matter of liberating the Fish-Man slaves in the Holy Land Mary Geoise.
It was rather laughable, really.
As one of the World Government affiliated nations that paid a large amount of Celestial Tribute to the Celestial Dragons annually, the place with the most Fish-Man slaves was ironically the Holy Land Mary Geoise.
It could be said that the human traffickers on the Sabaody Archipelago, after capturing Fish-Men, mostly sold them to the Celestial Dragons.
The Fish-Man slaves purchased by Celestial Dragons accounted for over ninety percent of all Fish-Man and Mermaid slaves.
"I really didn't expect that fellow Neptune would choose to directly withdraw from the World Government affiliated nations."
Nicholas said with a smile.
Beside him, his whale shark subordinate Jinbe spoke up to explain: "His Majesty Neptune acted entirely for the sake of Fish-Man Island. Ever since reaching an agreement with you, the use of the Energy Steroids and the Sea Kings has brought about a huge increase in Ryugu Palace's strength. Although still unable to contend with the World Government, self-preservation is more than sufficient."
"With the ability to protect themselves, His Majesty Neptune also wanted to tentatively strive for the rights of Fish-Man Island, but was ruthlessly rejected by the World Government. It was from that moment that His Majesty Neptune completely lost heart in the World Government. Relying on the World Government, Fish-Man Island could never gain the qualification to move freely under the sun!"
Previously, for the survival of Fish-Man Island and the future of its citizens, Neptune had always chosen compromise.
Although a small number of citizens were unfortunately abducted by human traffickers for various reasons and fell into misfortune, at least the majority of Fish-Man Island residents were relatively safe on Fish-Man Island.
Now, with strength and the alliance with Nicholas, there was naturally no longer any need to compromise with the World Government.
Neptune had even long decided to make Fish-Man Island an indispensable part of Nicholas's plan.
"I understand the general situation. But are you sure you want to go with us? You should know this operation isn't a tour; carelessness could lead to death."
Nicholas looked seriously at Fisher Tiger and Jinbe.
"Hey hey, who do you think you're talking to!? Mere human..."
"Arlong, shut up!"
Just as Fisher Tiger was about to reply, a discordant voice suddenly came from among the few Fish-Men behind him.
The moment he heard this voice, Jinbe immediately reprimanded him.
Although Fish-Man Island had gained the ability to protect itself through the Energy Steroids, it didn't mean they had the qualifications to challenge figures like Nicholas who stood at the pinnacle of the world.
"Oh, mere human?"
Looking at that disgusting shark face, Nicholas spoke with icy eyes.
Besides Nicholas, Dragon, who had remained silent from the beginning, also looked towards the speaking sawshark Fish-Man.
If Arlong hadn't spoken up, Nicholas truly wouldn't have noticed this boss from the Straw Hats' East Blue arc later on.
"Nicholas, please don't misunderstand. Arlong, hurry up and apologize!"
Fisher Tiger looked sternly at Arlong the Fish-Man and shouted.
"Brother Tiger, why should we apologize to a lower species!"
Arlong said indignantly.
However, before he could finish, Jinbe stepped forward and slapped him directly, knocking him to the ground.
Then Jinbe mounted Arlong and started pummeling him.
Purupurupuru, purupurupuru...
Just as Nicholas was watching the unfolding melodrama, the Transponder Snail in his pocket suddenly rang.
Nicholas raised his hand, took out the Transponder Snail, and looked down.
Although he hadn't answered yet, he roughly guessed it was a call from Belin.
After all, only a few people could reach him on this number.
Click.
Nicholas pressed the button, and the call connected.
"Nicholas, is it convenient to talk?"
Belin's voice came from the small, exquisite pink Transponder Snail.
"It is."
Nicholas glanced sideways at the Fish-Man beating happening nearby, then looked at the Transponder Snail and said softly.
"Whitebeard has already started fighting Kaido. Kaido is currently at a disadvantage. Should we help Kaido?"
"No need. You take Vistade and our forces and leave Wano Country directly. Since Whitebeard wants the Kozuki Clan to rule Wano Country again, then let him have it."
"Eh?"
Hearing Nicholas's words, Belin couldn't help but utter a sound of surprise.
Dragon, beside him, was somewhat surprised but didn't speak up.
After all, this was an internal matter of Nicholas's pirate crew; it wasn't appropriate for him to interfere.
"Belin, tell me, if someone who was originally poor and desperate suddenly starts living a good life, and then someone tries to take everything away from him, what do you think he would do?"
Nicholas spoke faintly into the Transponder Snail.
"I understand."
The two then chatted for a while longer before hanging up the Transponder Snail.
"Alright, Jinbe, stop. If you continue, your little brother is going to be beaten to death."
Nicholas said to Jinbe.
Although he didn't care about Arlong's life or death, giving Fish-Man Island some face didn't hurt.
Hearing Nicholas's words, Jinbe stopped, panting, while Arlong lay瘫倒 on the ground, his face covered in blood.
"Always going on about 'lower species'. If humans were the lower species, then Fish-Men should be the rulers of the world right now."
Nicholas said contemptuously to Arlong lying on the ground.
"Also, Tiger, if you have the chance, help me relay to Neptune that racism is unacceptable. Otherwise, even if Fish-Man Island returns to the surface, conflict with humans will erupt again before long. Of course, if there are any clueless humans, you can beat them to death too. After all, as long as your stance is correct, it's fine."
"I understand, Mr. Nicholas."
Tiger said respectfully.
He was clearly aware that certain extreme racist ideologies existed among the Fish-Men.
He also knew even more clearly that Nicholas was right.
If racism was allowed to spread, Fish-Man Island would be dragged into an abyss from which there was no return.
This was something he, Neptune, Queen Otohime, and a large group of Merfolk and Fish-Men who hoped for Fish-Men to freely return to the surface were unwilling to see.
Beside them, Dragon silently took out his notebook and started writing, "Racism is unacceptable."
Although he didn't know the specifics, he grasped some clues from Nicholas's words.
After all, this world contained not only humans but also numerous humanoid races like those on Fish-Man Island, the Mink Tribe, the Longarm Tribe, and the Giant Tribe.
If the Revolutionary Army wanted to overthrow the World Government and establish a new order in the future, they absolutely had to take these humanoid races into consideration.
End of Chapter
Chapter 338 End of the Pirate Era?
After the little interlude passed, everyone started discussing the specific details.
"This operation is mainly synchronized with the Execution of Pirate King Roger in Loguetown. At that time, the Navy will definitely send a large number of Military Strength to ensure the smooth Execution of Roger. This means... once Holy Land Mary Geoise is suddenly attacked, Marine Headquarters, which has already dispatched most of its high-end Combat Power to Loguetown, will not be able to provide effective support to Holy Land Mary Geoise that is under attack.
"At the same time, the World Government and Celestial Dragons' power will escort the Allied Nation Representatives who come to Celestial Palace Celestial Tribute. At that time, Dorag and I will directly attack the Venue. In other words, if Tiger and Jinbe go to liberate Slave at that time, you will only encounter some Cannon Fodder, is that okay?"
Nicholas slightly adjusted his sitting posture and said calmly.
"..."
Hearing Nicholas's Words, there was a sudden sound of gasping for breath from the surrounding crowd.
The Revolutionary Army, who knows the power of the World Government, usually would not consider such an almost open and direct offensive move.
As for the Fishman who have been oppressed for countless years, they dare not even think about it.
What's more, the Place they are going to enter this time is still Holy Land Mary Geoise, the lair of the World Government and Celestial Dragons.
To attack such a Place head-on is somewhat unacceptable to them rationally.
As for Fisher Tiger, he was already dumbfounded. As a former Slave, he had lived in the human world for a considerable period of Time, so compared to other Fishman, he knew more clearly the power of humans. This is also why he was willing to support Queen Otohime's idea of peaceful coexistence with humans, because Fishman are really at an absolute Disadvantage when facing Human.
Originally, he thought Nicholas and the others would just sneak into Mary Geoise and then cause a big Surprise and run away. He didn't expect Nicholas to directly say that they would attack the Celestial Dragons' Venue.
But strictly speaking, these Words do sound like Words Nicholas would say.
Just as Nicholas was thinking about how to give Mary Geoise a big Surprise, the Battle in Loguetown also officially entered a fever pitch.
"Bullet!"
In the Port that had almost become Ruins, Sakazuki stepped on Magma, Magma kept sliding down from his Fist, and even Flame seemed to be flickering in his Eyes.
Originally, he thought that with the joint efforts of him, Borsalino, and Kuzan, they should be able to take down Bullet quickly, but this Bullet guy became more and more fierce as they fought.
At the beginning, Bullet was still forced into a rather embarrassing situation, but as the Battle progressed, Bullet actually began to gradually adapt. It can be said that this guy is a veritable battlefield machine.
"Are the Navy only tough with their mouths? Before defeating Roger and becoming World's Strongest, I will not die!"
Bullet reached out and wiped the Blood from the corner of Mouth, looked at Sakazuki who could not hide his anger, and confronted him tit-for-tat.
How could he fall here before personally defeating Roger and becoming World's Strongest!
You must know that back then in front of Roger, these three guys In front of him were just followers behind Garp and Sengoku!
How could he, who aims to surpass Roger, be defeated by them!
And Bullet had no idea that his performance at this Time had shocked many Navy in Loguetown for a whole year.
After all, facing the siege of Akainu Sakazuki, Kizaru Borsalino, and Aokiji Kuzan, these three Elite Headquarters Vice Admiral, Bullet who is still standing firm can be said to be a veritable Monster, because according to the Strength of these three People, plus the surrounding Navy elites, it is completely comparable to a Buster Call.
And it is this Power comparable to Buster Call that cannot take down Bullet.
For Bullet, his Target at this Time is to defeat these three guys In front of him.
Then defeat Garp and Sengoku, and then rush to Roger, and question him why he didn't dare to face him!
Only in that way can he truly surpass Roger in the true sense.
"I can't wait any longer!!!"
Looking at Sakazuki In front of him, whose temperature was getting higher and higher, Bullet's Whole Body was surging with awe-inspiring Fighting Spirit, and he rushed towards Akainu.
This will be the first stumbling block he will flatten before seeing Roger!
"Ara ara ara, this kind of environment really makes it impossible to go all out."
Kuzan on the side exhaled a mouthful of white Freezing Air and muttered to himself.
"Yeah."
Along with the gathering of particles of light, Kizaru Borsalino's Figure appeared on the Ruins not far from Kuzan, and nodded in agreement with Kuzan's Words.
"Borsalino, you shouldn't be too affected by this, right? Admiral Sengoku is watching, you don't want to Overtime, do you?"
Kuzan said to Borsalino. His Ice-Ice Fruit and Akainu's Magma-Magma Fruit were greatly restricted in this environment with their own People around, but Borsalino's Glint-Glint Fruit was not so affected.
"Still as unlikeable as ever, Kuzan."
Borsalino glanced at Kuzan, and then his whole Figure instantly disappeared In front of Kuzan.
Originally, he wanted to slack off, but Kuzan was right. His and Sakazuki's Devil Fruit Ability are very strong in group battles, but fighting Enemy in their own Faction is greatly affected, because the Teammates they accidentally kill may be more than the Enemy kills.
"Dog Bite: Crimson Lotus!"
Seeing Bullet rushing straight over, the extremely angry Akainu directly rushed towards Bullet.
Hoo!
The scorching Magma became more turbulent under anger. Under Akainu's traction, the magma-transformed Arm turned into a Dog shape and bit fiercely towards Bullet.
"Your little Flame is still better used to light Candle."
In Bullet's Eyes reflected the Magma Hunting Dog biting towards him. Feeling the scorching high temperature coming towards him, he raised his hand and threw a Fist.
Fusing the Power of Demon Qi and Haki, carrying terrifying Fist Strength, it bombarded the oncoming Magma Hunting Dog.
Boom!
The scorching Magma Hunting Dog was hit in the Head by a Fist, and in the blink of an eye, it shattered into countless scattered Magma.
The scalding Magma splashed on Bullet's Body, making a sizzling Sound.
Almost at the same Time as Bullet's Fist smashed the Magma Hunting Dog's Head, Borsalino also arrived diagonally above Bullet.
"I don't want to be sent to Overtime by Mr. Sengoku, so you should just go down."
Borsalino bent his right leg backwards in the Sky, and then like a tightly drawn bow, he fiercely whipped Bullet's Head.
Boom!
After a brief pause, accompanied by a deafening muffled Sound.
Bullet's Body instantly smashed out circles of air explosions in the Sky, turning into a stream of light and flying backwards into the distance.
In just the blink of an eye, Bullet's burly Body flew across half of Loguetown and plowed a gully thousands of meters long on the Ground.
The terrifying impact force generated by this caused a straight line to appear in Loguetown.
...
An hour later, the Navy in Loguetown began to get busy.
"Will this guy be escorted to Impel Down by the World Government afterwards?"
In an Office, Akainu Sakazuki's eyelids drooped, and his Gaze mixed with cold meaning fell on the latest Order from the World Government on the desk.
He had a Cigar in his mouth, and the Firelight at the top of the Cigar flickered, seemingly like his Mood at this Time.
"That's right, the Five Elders have arranged it this way. Bullet's Fruit is quite dangerous to a certain Degree, so the bottommost level of Impel Down will be his final destination."
Sengoku looked at Sakazuki and said.
"Then what about the New World? Whitebeard is at war with Kaido and Nicholas in Wano Country, and there is also the Charlotte Family constantly approaching G1 Base..."
If they could take the opportunity to solve one of these troubles, the Navy's Target of entering the New World would be further advanced.
"There are no extra personnel available to deal with that for the Time being. Currently, our main task is the Execution of Pirate King Roger."
Sengoku also said with some Regret.
It's a pity that the Navy's Energy has been attracted by Roger's Execution, and they can't spare enough Combat Power.
What the Navy should do now is to ensure the smooth completion of Roger's Execution.
Many People, including Akainu, felt that—
The moment the Pirate Era ends is approaching.
(End of Chapter)
Chapter 339: The Enemy is Too Vicious
At this time in Wano Country, with Kaido and Whitebeard at war, and the Beasts Pirates in a disadvantageous situation, some areas ruled by Kaido and Orochi welcomed a long-lost peace.
Due to the immense pressure from the Whitebeard Pirates, Kurozumi Orochi and the Beasts Pirates simply didn't have the extra energy to suppress the people of Wano Country. Coupled with the secret coordination of some rebels and the resistance of the Samurai, the factories established throughout Wano Country finally began to stop discharging black smoke and sewage.
The return of the Kozuki Clan's Heir also allowed the people of Wano Country in Flower Capital and other places to see a bright future.
After all, under the brutal rule of Kurozumi Orochi and the Beasts Pirates, they deeply missed the life they had when the Kozuki Family ruled.
Although they were also part of the oppressed class during the Kozuki rule, at least they could live with some dignity, instead of being sent to the mine by Orochi like beasts to work constantly without any Reward.
As the saying goes, no comparison, no Damage.
Comparing the rule of the Kozuki Family to the rule of Kurozumi Orochi, it's a case of 'not the worst, but even worse'.
So when the Red Scabbards appeared with Kozuki Oden's widow and children, and told them that the Whitebeard Pirates, who were currently defeating Kurozumi Orochi and Kaido's Beasts Pirates in successive battles, were friends of the Kozuki Family.
These people of Wano Country felt Hope appear, as if everything was developing in a good direction.
The people of Wano Country were very excited and full of anticipation for tomorrow.
This kind of atmosphere was exactly what the Red Scabbards and Toki hoped to see.
If they wanted to return Wano Country to the past, and make the people of Wano Country rekindle their nostalgia for the Kozuki Family's rule.
Then, she must first let the people of Wano Country know that the Kozuki Family can drive Kurozumi Orochi, who usurped the Shogun Position, from power, and drive the Beasts Pirates, who invaded and enslaved Wano Country, out of Wano Country.
And when the domestic public's voice is at its highest, use the power of the Whitebeard Pirates to help Momonosuke ascend to the Shogun Position of Wano Country.
After all, she also knew that the young Momonosuke simply could not convince the people of Wano Country. His only Advantage was that the Bloodline of the Kozuki Clan flowed within him.
Afterwards, with the help of the Red Scabbards, make Momonosuke a qualified Shogun.
"Sunlight... will eventually shine on Wano Country. Twenty years of moonlit nights, ninefold shadows falling from the sky, and you will understand the dazzling Dawn."
Toki stood on the Balcony of the dilapidated attic of Oden Castle in Kuri, gazing into the distance at the city Streets that were gradually recovering their vitality, and murmured to herself.
Kin'emon, Kanjuro, Denjiro, and others, who had changed into Samurai Outfit, silently gazed at Toki's back.
During this time, they knew how much Pressure the woman In front of them was enduring in her Inner Thoughts.
"Toki, according to News from Kiku, the Whitebeard Pirates have completely suppressed Kaido's Pirate Crew. Kaido's Defeat is only a matter of Time, and the Samurai led by Ashura Doji are also about to break through Kurozumi Orochi's last defense."
Kin'emon respectfully said to Toki.
And Toki, after hearing Kin'emon's Words, also gathered her thoughts back.
"What about White Dance and Udon?"
Amatsuki Toki asked, in her opinion, Nicholas was a more troublesome Opponent than Kaido and Kurozumi Orochi. After all, Nicholas's methods were too vicious, actually raising the Life level of Ordinary People in White Dance and Udon, allowing those people to live good Lives.
Hearing Amatsuki Toki's Words, Kin'emon and Denjiro and others fell into a brief Silence.
If it is said that the Places in Wano Country that most Hope to return to the Kozuki Family's Rule are Kuri and Flower Capital, then the Places that least want to return to the Kozuki Family's Rule must be White Dance and Udon.
It can be said that the prosperity of White Dance now far exceeds Flower Capital, and although Udon joined Nicholas and them relatively late, the Life level are still far higher than other Places in Wano Country.
Moreover, even if White Dance and Udon returned to the Rule of the Kozuki Family, they were not confident that they could maintain the current Life level of the Residents of White Dance and Udon.
After all, Nicholas and them can maintain the affluent Life in Udon and White Dance entirely because they are seizing a large amount of Wealth and Supplies from outside Wano Country through Trade Means.
However, this is destined to contradict Wano Country's Isolation Policy. As Kozuki Retainer, they cannot interfere with the Kozuki Family's philosophy of ruling Wano Country, which has been maintained for hundreds of years.
And if they cannot maintain the current affluent Life, why would White Dance and Udon want to return to Kozuki's Rule, and return to the previous impoverished Life?
So it can only be said that Nicholas's methods are really too vicious, letting Ordinary People live good Lives.
"I understand."
Looking at the embarrassed expressions of Denjiro and others, Amatsuki Toki also nodded, indicating that she understood.
Wano Country Inland Sea.
"Pops, that Kaido guy has retreated, are we going to chase after him?"
Marco, transformed into a Phoenix, landed on the Mast and said to Whitebeard.
On Onigashima In front of them, only a pile of ruins and a large number of Corpses of Beasts Pirates members remained at this Time.
"Not for now. Marco, notify the others, first treat the Injured, collect the Spoils of War, and repair the Ship."
Whitebeard said to Marco. Obviously, although they had defeated the Beasts Pirates on Onigashima, their own losses were also serious. At least five Pirate Crew's Pirate Ship were completely destroyed in the Battle, and many Pirate Crew's Ship were damaged and urgently needed repair.
"Understood, Pops!"
Marco immediately flapped his Wings and flew towards the Pirate Ship around the Moby Dick, conveying Whitebeard's Order.
And not long after Marco left, Izo, with Bandage wrapped around his Arm, brought Kikunojo, Nekomamushi, Inuarashi, and Kawamatsu to Whitebeard.
They knelt down without saying a Word, obviously aware that the Whitebeard Pirates had suffered considerable losses in the War with the Beasts Pirates.
"Pops, and everyone, thank you!"
After saying that, Izo took the lead in prostrating Oneself and pressed his Forehead to the Deck.
"Gurararara, Izo, this is everyone's decision. If you want to thank everyone, when you get to Kozuki Oden's hometown, just hold a good Banquet to entertain everyone."
"That's right, Pops is right."
"At that Time, I will definitely taste the Fine Wine of Wano Country and see the Geisha performances of Wano Country!"
...
Soon, the Whitebeard Grand Fleet, having completed repairs, continued to advance towards White Dance in Wano Country.
Now that the Beasts Pirates had been dealt with, the next naturally was the Nicholas Pirates, who had also invaded Wano Country.
"Pops, this is Blade-Weapon Port. As long as we land here, we can enter the Hakumai Region. After reclaiming White Dance, we can then go directly to Flower Capital along the River!"
Izo, holding a Map of Wano Country, said excitedly to Whitebeard.
"Pops, there's a situation at the Port ahead!"
Just then, the Lookout on the Crow's Nest shouted loudly.
Then, everyone in the Whitebeard Pirates got up and came to the Ship's Railing, looking towards the Port. They saw that the Port and even the Coast next to the Port were full of People. As the saying goes, once People exceed ten thousand, they are boundless and limitless, not to mention that the number of People appearing at Blade-Weapon Port at this Time was more than ten thousand, conservatively estimated to be at least over one hundred thousand!
"Zehahahaha, I didn't expect that Kozuki Oden guy to be so popular in Wano Country."
Teach looked at the crowd at the Port in the distance and let out his signature Laughter.
"Izo, I didn't realize, so many People are welcoming us."
Sachi also stepped forward, put his Arm around Izo's Neck, and said with a Smile.
"Something's not right..."
Marco suddenly said, and as the Ship approached the Port, the others in the Whitebeard Pirates also noticed something was wrong.
(End of Chapter)
Chapter 340: Intruders
Because, as the distance between the two sides closed, they could already see each other's expressions.
The Whitebeard Pirates could clearly see that among the people appearing at the Port, there were Soldiers holding Flintlock Guns, Gunners cautiously raising torches and looking at them, Samurai drawing Long Swords, and even more Ordinary People holding various farm tools and clubs, laughable 'weapons'.
And their hostile gazes, and those resolute expressions, didn't look like they were welcoming them at all. More like a palpable hostility.
Being stared at by hundreds of thousands of people with hostile eyes, even Marco was feeling the pressure.
Although these people before them were almost impossible to pose a substantial threat to the Whitebeard Pirates, and the Whitebeard Pirates could even kill all these hundreds of thousands of people if they wanted to, it would only take some time.
But the Whitebeard Pirates obviously couldn't do such a thing.
"Izo, what exactly is going on?"
Whitebeard looked at Izo and asked in a deep voice. Although there was no blame in his tone, Marco and Jozu, and others familiar with Whitebeard, all looked solemn, because they knew that Pops was on the verge of anger.
If Izo couldn't give a reasonable explanation, then the trouble would be big.
For Whitebeard, he originally thought that Wano Country was under great oppression. Coupled with Kozuki Oden's past relationship with him and the requests from Izo and other Crew member, he was willing to come to Wano Country to fight against Kaido of the Hundred Beasts and Thunder God Nicholas.
It could be said that Whitebeard was still somewhat confident in dealing with Kaido of the Hundred Beasts, but the scene of Nicholas once joining forces with Roger to suppress Nicholas was still vivid in his mind.
He was willing to bring the Whitebeard Pirates to Wano Country more for the sake of righteousness.
But now he was very certain that what he saw in the eyes of those children at the Port was the same as what he saw in the eyes of those guys who invaded their hometown back then.
It was something called hatred!
"This… how is this possible…"
Izo looked at the expressions of the people at the Port, also in disbelief. Not to mention welcoming the Royal Army, at least they shouldn't be acting like enemies, right?
How was he supposed to explain this? Originally, he said that the people of Wano Country were all longing to get rid of oppression and return to the Rule of the Kozuki Family, but now anyone who wasn't a fool could see the attitude of White Dance and these people.
"Pops, this must be a Conspiracy by Nicholas and them. We'll know when we go ashore! Yes, that's right, we'll know when we go ashore and ask!"
Izo said quickly, probably without even realizing that his tone had become a little flustered.
Before the Whitebeard Pirates' Ships could get close to the Shore, a Small Boat had already sailed over from the Shore.
"Are you the Whitebeard Pirates, Edward Newgate!"
Ashina Isshin stood at the Ship's Bow, looking at the huge Moby Dick in front of him and asked loudly.
"We are the Whitebeard Pirates, and you are?"
Marco jumped directly onto the Ship's Bow, looking down at Ashina Isshin who had come Alone.
"I am Ashina Isshin, here to tell you that if your Whitebeard Pirates intend to attack White Dance, then the 300,000 Military and Civilians of White Dance will fight you to the Blood!"
"Gurararara, fight to the Blood?"
Laughter rang out from behind Marco, and then Whitebeard's tall Figure appeared on the Deck.
Looking at Ashina Isshin standing Alone at the Ship's Bow, and the hundreds of thousands of people at the Port not far behind him, Whitebeard could clearly see that fighting to the Blood was not just empty Words.
It seemed that at this moment, the Whitebeard Pirates were the invaders.
"Hey, what are you talking about, you guys? The Kozuki Family is clearly the Ruler of the entire Wano Country. We are here to help the Kozuki Family regain control of Wano Country and rescue you from Nicholas's oppression!"
Izo stood at the Ship's Bow and said angrily to Ashina Isshin. In his opinion, these people's behavior was undoubtedly blatant Betrayal!
"You should be a Retainer of Kozuki Oden, not everyone is like you, regarding Kozuki as the only savior of Wano Country. We have found our own path. For anyone who wants to disrupt our current Life, whether it is Kozuki or anyone else, what awaits him will be the anger of the people of White Dance."
"You!"
Hearing Ashina Isshin's Words, Izo was instantly furious, but before he could lose his temper, Bista next to him held his Shoulder.
Looking at Bista who was holding him, Izo was a little puzzled, and then he saw Bista shaking his head at him. At this time, Izo realized that the expressions of the Whitebeard Pirates were a bit silent.
Their Feel at this moment was the same as Whitebeard's, that was, at this moment it seemed that they were the invaders.
"Hahaha, don't misunderstand, although we are Friends of Kozuki, we are also Friends of Nicholas and them."
At this time, Marco began to smooth things over. After all, the original decision to go to war with Nicholas was because they thought Nicholas was using Military Force to Rule White Dance and Udon, wanting to rescue these oppressed People.
But now the situation was obviously not what they thought, and the people being rescued were almost explicitly saying they hated Kozuki. They couldn't continue to go to war with Nicholas, right?
Hearing Marco's Words, Ashina Isshin's attitude obviously eased slightly.
Obviously, Lady Belline had told him something before leaving.
"Lady Belline once said before leaving, if you are Friends, then White Dance welcomes you."
"Pops?"
Hearing this, Marco looked at Whitebeard, waiting for his decision.
"Gurararara, since the Master is not here, then we will visit another day. Boys, change Navigation!"
Whitebeard said directly.
With Whitebeard's order, the huge Whitebeard Pirate Crew turned its Navigation and sailed towards Kuri. He wanted to take a good look at what the Truth of Wano Country was!
"What! You said the Whitebeard Pirates did not attack White Dance and Udon, but sailed towards Kuri!?"
Denjiro looked at the subordinate who came to report and couldn't help but say in surprise.
"Denjiro, what's wrong?"
Kin'emon couldn't help but ask, not understanding why Denjiro was so lose composure, knowing that Whitebeard had defeated Kaido, which made the Kozuki Family's return to Rule Wano Country a big step forward.
"The problem is big. According to our Plan, Whitebeard should first fight with Kaido and then with Nicholas. With the Strength of the Whitebeard Pirates, it is not a big problem to defeat and drive Kaido and Nicholas out of Wano Country. At that time, based on Cat and Dog's Description of Whitebeard, Whitebeard is unlikely to stay in Wano Country.
We only need to verbally promise to seek Whitebeard's Protection, and then Wano Country will return to the Rule of the Kozuki Family.
But now Whitebeard has defeated Kaido, but he has not entered White Dance and fought with Nicholas and those rebels.
In other words, something unexpected must have happened that we don't know about, and if we can't drive Nicholas out of Wano Country, it also means that White Dance and Udon cannot return to the Rule of the Kozuki Family, and it may even threaten Lord Momonosuke's Shogun Position.
After all, Nicholas is a Monster no less than Kaido!"
Denjiro couldn't help but say anxiously, even pacing back and forth in the room, thinking about Countermeasure.
"Then what should we do?"
Kin'emon seemed to realize the seriousness of the problem and couldn't help but ask.
(End of chapter)