Section 191
"Roar—"
Jack roared, the pain jolting him out of his Mammoth form. One of his eyes had been gouged out by Ryuzaki.
"Hmph, since one strike isn't enough to kill you, then two strikes will do!"
Ryuzaki used Geppo to leap into the air, wielding Oto, its blade flashing. In the distance, the sky was ablaze with the glow of dawn, and in the blink of an eye, the Sword Aura drew near.
"Boom—" A deafening sound rang out.
Man and ship alike were shattered into pieces on the sea.
This scene shocked and excited countless marines, who had finally witnessed firsthand the breathtaking Flying Immortal from Beyond the Heavens—what a beautiful and fierce sword technique!
Ryuzaki landed on the warship, his brow furrowed slightly.
Beside him, Momousagi teleported to his side.
"That Jack isn't dead!"
Momousagi's Observation Haki was already quite strong, and with the added power of the Rumble-Rumble Fruit, she could sense that Jack, who had sunk to the bottom of the sea, still had his heart beating.
Ryuzaki stroked his chin, puzzled. "Ancient Zoan creatures are known for their resilience, but they didn't die after falling into the sea. Could Jack be able to breathe underwater?"
"According to intelligence gathered by the Navy, it seems the members of Kaido's pirate crew all possess incredibly strong vitality."
"I see, they're all cockroaches!" Ryuzaki couldn't figure it out either, so he simply stopped thinking about it and assumed the guy had fish blood.
The crisis was over, and the warship continued its voyage.
Some of Jack's crew members were captured.
But most of them sank into the sea as the pirate ship was destroyed.
"Hmm? This girl? Is she the same hot-blooded girl from earlier?"
Ryuzaki walked up with a smile and asked, "Hey, what's your name?"
"Pah—"
"Oh ho, you dare to spit at me? Believe me or not, I'll strip you naked and parade you through the streets!"
"You you you... you shameless!"
"So, are you going to tell me or not?"
"My name is Ginrummy!"
"That settles it!"
Chapter 133: Sinking the Seabed (Part 2)
"That settles it!"
Ryuzaki laughed as he looked at the now completely deflated Ginrummy.
Especially when he saw those two big balls, Ryuzaki stared at them with great pleasure.
Momousagi walked up to Ryuzaki and pinched the soft flesh on his waist, making Ryuzaki wince in pain.
Okay, I won't look anymore!
The escort mission continued, and when he had nothing to do, Ryuzaki helped Gion awaken her Sword Intent and occasionally sparred with her sword on the ship.
Many people were incredibly envious!
And they were doubly envious.
They envied both the chance to spar with a beautiful woman like Momousagi and the chance to spar with a Great Swordsman like the Sword Immortal.
Ryuzaki just wanted to say, what are you guys up to?
After Jack's group, they didn't encounter any trouble. Even when they encountered pirate ships, they all gave them a wide berth.
Just kidding, the famous Sword Immortal was on that warship. We're not like those guys in Kaido's crew, who all threw their brains away!
The Sword Immortal has a fearsome reputation; we can't afford to mess with him, so it's best to avoid him!
The warship successfully escorted the Celestial Dragons to the Holy Land, Mary Geoise.
It was a pleasant trip. During the trip, the ivory was bought by Saint Roswald for a high price of two billion Berries. Well, it was mammoth ivory, worthy of collection.
Ryuzaki made a nice profit.
When it was time to part ways…
Saint Charlos waved his hand: "Sword Immortal, bring me Shi Zhen Xiang again next time!"
"Don't worry, great Saint Charlos, you will definitely get to eat Shi Zhen Xiang again."
Watching Charlos leave with snot running down his face, Ryuzaki thought to himself, "Shi Zhen Xiang (Literal Poop), is it really that delicious?"
Momousagi was already laughing so hard she was spitting blood!
"Gion, stop laughing, be serious."
"Hahahaha... I can't hold it in anymore, it's too funny!"
"Gion, we must be polite, we must show enough respect to the Celestial Dragons. Look at you, laughing so wildly, what kind of behavior is that?"
"Tch, you culprit, how dare you say that to me?" Momousagi rolled her eyes at Ryuzaki.
At this point, Ryuzaki's mission was complete!
It was time to leave!
However, Momousagi grabbed Ryuzaki's arm, insisting that he accompany her to escort the prisoners to Impel Down.
Helpless, to satisfy the girl's needs, Ryuzaki had no choice but to continue accompanying her.
All that touching, patting, holding hands...
yes, it's all just showing off their affection.
And then Momonga was really upset!
He wanted to jump off the warship countless times, damn it, he never wanted to see you two again!
Section 192
But faced with the vast ocean, Vice Admiral Momonga had no choice but to swallow his anger!
Although he wanted to protest...
one was a candidate for Admiral, and the other a Sword Immortal; he couldn't defeat either, so he could only sulk.
Now, Ryuzaki and Momousagi were sitting on the deck, enjoying a delicious meal and discussing swordsmanship.
Under Ryuzaki's guidance, Momousagi's progress in swordsmanship was quite rapid, much faster than if she had practiced alone.
Seeing Momousagi enter a meditative state again, Ryuzaki didn't disturb her, but instead gazed at the distant sea, pondering.
In the previous battle, Ryuzaki had mastered the Six Styles Derivative: Great Spray, a pretty good move!
But what if his bladder was empty? He couldn't use it!
Ryuzaki was thinking, pondering; he needed to create another move, to use as... well, as a trump card for surprise attacks!
What was that... oh right, it was that guy Zeff.
Ryuzaki still clearly remembered Zeff's classic quote: "Even if you are equipped with hundreds of weapons, you may not be able to withstand a gun in your crotch."
Chapter 134: Escorting Pirates
"That's right, that's really true!"
Ryuzaki clenched his fist, feeling a lot of emotions.
The derivative of the Six Styles, since Lucci can comprehend the Six King Gun (Rokuogan), then a man as clever as me should also comprehend something.
"Lucci's Six Styles Secret Technique is called the Six King Gun, right? Then my Six Styles Secret Technique will be called the Overlord Spear!"
Six Styles Derivative · Overlord Spear!
Look, this name is very impressive.
Ryuzaki fell into a state of enlightenment. He stood at the bow of the ship, facing the wind, straightening his back, "Hah-ya—" with a shout, and then he activated it!
Talent: Six Styles Secret Technique · Overlord Spear (98).
That's right, it's that awesome, ninety-eight points, Ryuzaki is super talented in this aspect.
There are 360 professions, and every profession can produce a champion!
Yes, that makes sense. The ancients were right!
This spear is deeply hidden; if it doesn't appear in the world, so be it. But if it does, it will surely be a resounding success!
Ryuzaki admired his total talent points, which had reached 550.
This kind of talent is awesome, it's incredible…
"Purupuru, purupurupuru…"
Hmm? A Sengoku period Den Den Mushi!
"Fleet Admiral Sengoku, is something the matter?"
"Ahem... Your mission to protect the Celestial Dragons was excellent; you've redeemed yourself!"
"Don't mention it, don't mention it. Serving the Celestial Dragons is what I should do."
"Um... I just wanted to ask, what kind of delicious 'Shi Zhen Xiang' did Charlos mention?"
"Eh? You want some too?"
"Just asking."
"Okay, actually, I stole it from Big Mom's pirate ship."
"I see, never mind then! So, let's get down to business. You're with Momousagi now, escorting prisoners to Impel Down, right?"
"Yes!"
"Very good. After escorting the prisoners, send your Divine Punishment Army out. I need the Divine Punishment Army to expand our territory in the New World."
"Expand our territory?"
"Just think of it that way. Actually, our Navy has a branch in the New World, but the pressure from the Four Emperors is immense. I hope the Marines can push the front lines forward."
Ryuzaki understood Sengoku's words!
Well, the Navy's branch in the New World is essentially an outpost, so it's normal for it to be attacked and harassed by pirates.
However, Sengoku hopes to turn these outposts into a strong rear base, so it's necessary to have troops advance forward and push the Navy's controlled waters forward.
"What? Is the Divine Punishment Army's combat strength insufficient?"
"Heh heh, Sengoku, you don't need to provoke me. I know, I'll prepare."
Pushing the front line, huh!
Ryuzaki hung up the Den Den Mushi, thinking that this was going to be a long-term mission!
Controlling waters or territory is no easy task!
But it's good, it'll give the Divine Punishment Army soldiers some training, and their strength is already quite good!
While the pirates in the New World are powerful, the Divine Punishment Army is not weak either.
The Navy has many branches around the world, but the branches on the Grand Line all begin with the letter G.
Currently, the New World branch is G-1.
Chapter 134: Escorting Pirates (Part 2)
Currently, the New World branch—G-1 Branch—
is considered a very forward-deployed naval branch. It has a small troop presence due to difficulties with supply lines and frequent harassment and hijacking by pirates.
Ryuzaki's mission is to lead the Divine Punishment Army to first engage in battles with various pirate crews around G-1 Branch, clearing the seas and protecting supply routes, before advancing the front line.
"In other words, it's like legally robbing them, right?"
Ryuzaki had a flash of inspiration, thinking to himself, "I'm so damn clever!"
Each attack on a pirate crew, not to mention the pirate ship itself, is very valuable. If the pirate ship also has other treasures, or even Devil Fruits, wouldn't that be even more profitable?
Of course, not all the loot can be kept.
Section 193
Ryuzaki pondered, deciding to allocate a portion of the points as rewards for Divine Punishment Army soldiers, establishing a reasonable merit system…
"Perhaps I can imitate the DKP (Dragon Kill Points) system from my previous life!"
The DKP system was a fairly reasonable distribution system!
Generally speaking, anyone participating in combat received a certain number of reward points, and those who killed or captured more during combat received additional points.
The final distribution of spoils was based on points, allocated proportionally.
After some thought, Ryuzaki called Law via Den Den Mushi, explaining the DKP system in detail, asking him to establish a rough reward and punishment mechanism first.
After giving the instructions, he left everything to Law, trusting his abilities.
Now!
Let's go explore Impel Down!
Ryuzaki remembered that in the original story, Impel Down had things like a Scorching Hell and a Freezing Hell—basically, a place with mild winters and cool summers.
After escorting the prisoners, they finally arrived at Impel Down!
"That Gion..."
"Hmm? What's up, little brother?"
"You can handle the prisoner handover; I'll wait on the warship."
"Alright!"
Momousagi nodded, leading a group of marines and Vice Admiral Momonga to escort the prisoner to Impel Down for registration.
As for Ryuzaki, seeing no one around, he immediately opened the Tunnel Door and quietly slipped into Impel Down.
Actually, Ryuzaki could have just gone in openly.
But... it was just too cumbersome!
Procedures, identity verification, registration—it was all so annoying. It was much more convenient to just sneak in.
Inside Impel Down, there was one place Ryuzaki really wanted to see: the famous Newkama Land, Level 5.5.
Upon entering Impel Down, Ryuzaki used the Stairwell Door to search downwards.
Thanks to the Door-Door Fruit's power, he found it very easily!
At this moment, on Level 5.5, the Okama King Ivankov was indeed there, surrounded by his henchmen, having a party, singing and dancing, having a great time.
Ryuzaki thought, "Ivankov, you really know how to have fun."
However, Level 5.5 was indeed a good hiding place. If Ivankov hadn't claimed it first, Ryuzaki would have loved to take it over.
He could set up a Marker Door here.
If he ever got carried away and the World Government launched a full-scale attack, hiding in Impel Down would be undetectable!
Thinking this, Ryuzaki felt incredibly pleased.
After watching Ivankov and his group jump around for a while, Ryuzaki ignored them and began searching for a new hiding place.
However, Ryuzaki searched and searched but couldn't find a new hiding spot.
This frustrated Ryuzaki.
He stroked his chin, thinking, "Maybe I should try looking on other floors?"
Chapter 135: Shiryu of the Rain
Ryuzaki also began searching in the gaps between other floors.
Surprisingly, he actually found a place—a fairly large building located between Levels 4 and 5, between the Scorching Hell and the Freezing Hell.
Ryuzaki glanced at the building and discovered it was a storage warehouse.
After carefully observing the location, Ryuzaki finally understood!
Perhaps a prisoner had fought with Magellan or other powerful figures, damaging a section of the stone bridge that once led here!
Over time, the warehouse had been abandoned!
Brilliant!
Truly brilliant!
The only passage to this warehouse was destroyed, leaving only lava in front.
And behind it, extremely cold permafrost.
Ryuzaki was delighted and set up a Marked Door inside the abandoned warehouse.
After marking the door, Ryuzaki descended to Level 6 to take a look. The room was filled with vicious criminals, but the surveillance was quite strict, with Den Den Mushi (Surveillance Snails) everywhere monitoring the area.
Just then, Ryuzaki saw someone, someone very familiar—Shiryu of the Rain!
However, Shiryu was locked in a specially made cell.
"This guy, could he have been imprisoned by Magellan for indiscriminate killing?"
But this guy's level was indeed impressive.
Talent: Basic Physical Ability (96)
Talent: Basic Strength (97)
Talent: Basic Physical Technique (91)
Talent: Basic Swordsmanship (111)
Hidden Talent: Demon Eye (109)
Talent: One-Sword Style (110)
Talent: Demonic Flow (121) (Note: Or Cursed Sword Style/Spirit Flow).
...
Holy crap, a hidden talent?
Ryuzaki was stunned. Demon Eye?
Section 194
This guy is not only a Great Swordsman, but he's also successfully tempered his eyes?
Ryuzaki glanced at Shiryu of the Rain's levels again.
Swordsmanship Basics: Lv 92.
One-Sword Style: Lv 91.
Demonic Flow: Lv 82.
Demon Eye: Lv 26.
...
Ryuzaki saw something very interesting: Demonic Flow, Demon Eye.
Although he didn't quite understand it, it seemed pretty awesome.
So far, among those who have successfully tempered their eyes with Sword Intent, Hawkeye is one, Ryuzaki himself is one, and Shiryu of the Rain is one.
What's strange is that everyone who tempers their eyes gets different eye abilities.
Ryuzaki made a comparison: Hawkeye doesn't have a specific style, only specializing in Swordsmanship Basics and One-Sword Style.
Ryuzaki himself, besides Swordsmanship Basics and One-Sword Style, is skilled in the Immortal Sword Style (Sage Sword Style).
And Shiryu of the Rain, obviously, is more skilled in Demonic Flow.
"Strange, could it be that practicing these sword styles has made his Sword Intent more unique, thus making his eyes, tempered by Sword Intent, different from others?"
Ryuzaki pondered this, but still couldn't figure it out, so he simply stopped thinking about it!
As for Shiryu of the Rain... he should recruit him into the Divine Punishment Army!
That guy is so bloodthirsty, it's a waste for him to stay in Impel Down.
The Divine Punishment Army is about to be deployed to the New World, waging war everywhere, and will need high-end combat power.
Bloodthirsty? So what if he kills a few pirates? That's no big deal!
There are plenty of pirates in the New World, kill them horizontally, vertically, for a thousand years, kill them however you want!
Hmm, that's a happy decision!
Ryuzaki quickly returned to the warship and immediately contacted Commander-in-Chief Kong via Den Den Mushi. After some persuasion, he finally managed to get Shiryu of the Rain over.
Just then, Momousagi's prisoner handover was also completed.
Chapter 135: Shiryu of the Rain (Part 2)
Just then, Momousagi's prisoner handover was also complete.
"Little brother, have you been waiting long? We're heading back now."
"No, wait!"
"Eh? Waiting for what?"
"Waiting for someone!" Ryuzaki gave a mysterious smile.
Not long after, Magellan walked ahead, with Shiryu of the Rain following behind.
When they reached the dock, they both stopped simultaneously.
"Shiryu, are you really leaving?"
"Ah, Magellan, I'm joining the Marines."
"Shiryu, Impel Down can't be without you!"
"Sorry, Magellan!"
"Shiryu..."
Seeing this bromance-filled farewell scene, Ryuzaki felt a real headache coming on.
"Alright, alright, Shiryu, it's time to go!"
"You must be the Sword Immortal!"
"That's right, it's me."
"I've been waiting for a man like you to appear."
"Heh heh, I'm truly flattered!"
Ryuzaki laughed, "Then as a return gift, I'll grant you the legal right to kill!"
"Heh heh heh... indeed, the Butcher of Sabaody Archipelago understands me best!"
"Then let's hurry up and go, we can't keep the outlaws on the sea waiting!"
This scene left Magellan dumbfounded!
Magellan was also furious: "Sword Immortal, Shiryu, are you both murderers?"
"Heh heh heh..."
Shiryu lit a cigar for himself and said meaningfully, "Wrong, Magellan, you're legal murderers!"
The warship departed!
Magellan looked on with reluctance at his companion, who was about to embark on a path of no return...
Several days had passed in the blink of an eye.
New World, Misagre Island (likely fictional).
This small island was completely desolate, lacking even fresh water.
Because of its proximity to the G-1 branch, it was about to become a temporary rest stop for the Marines.
But before that…
"Shiryu, draw your sword! Let me admire your ghostly swordsmanship!"
"Heh heh heh… I've heard you can learn your opponent's swordsmanship in battle. I'd love to see that."
Shiryu, a cigar dangling from his lips, a sinister smile on his face, held his sword in a reverse grip, the gleaming blade slowly drawing from its sheath.
Section 195
In that instant, it seemed as if a black, ghostly shadow had suddenly appeared.
Ryuzaki's gaze sharpened. An ordinary person would never have seen it, but Ryuzaki possessed the Immortal Eye and saw it clearly.
A crisp "clang" rang out.
The two remained in place, but between them came the sound of a small clash of Sword Aura.
Shiryu's sword!
Undoubtedly, it was a Cursed Sword.
And his demonic energy, combined with his Cursed Sword, had a synergistic effect.
The blade was finally drawn!
Fast, incredibly fast!
Eerie, almost as if it possessed a spirit.
This was the most dangerous type of swordsman Ryuzaki had ever encountered in his battles with any swordsman.
A major drawback of Cursed Swords is that they kill their masters.
However, Cursed Swords also have a major advantage: if a Cursed Sword recognizes its master, it will greatly enhance the wielder's combat power.
Don't be fooled by Shiryu's current swordsmanship foundation being only Lv 92, much lower than Ryuzaki's; when he wielded the Cursed Sword in battle, it was as if his swordsmanship foundation instantly increased by two levels.
However, it was precisely because Shiryu's swordsmanship was so unique that Ryuzaki gained a different kind of insight during their battle.
Chapter 136: Spirit and Blade
It took Ryuzaki a full eight hours to successfully activate his talent: Demonic Flow (19), bringing his total combat talent to 569 points.
However, the gains were not limited to that.
Ryuzaki understood that Shiryu had added resentment to his Sword Intent, thus gaining a power boost.
"A boost, huh!"
Ryuzaki frowned, deep in thought.
Shiryu's was Demonic Flow, but mine was Immortal Sword Style.
What is Immortal (Xian)? Immortal is composed of "person" (ren) and "mountain" (shan)!
An ancient saying goes: Mountains have spiritual energy.
Or: Mountains and rivers are beautiful.
Immortals are ethereal, like the morning mist in the mountains.
"So that's it, spirituality!"
Although he understood, he was still missing a good sword!
But even so, Ryuzaki smiled!
Ryuzaki's current swordsmanship, although called Immortal Sword Style, actually only had form, but no spirit.
It appeared beautiful, and indeed possessed great power, but that was all!
During the battle, Ryuzaki suddenly forced Shiryu back with a single sword strike, wielding the Oto sword and slicing open his own arm.
"Shiryu, let me show you what I've mastered!"
"Oh? Interesting. Are you going to demonstrate your skills?"
"Heh heh, watch closely. How different my Flying Immortal is from before!"
Shiryu had witnessed Flying Immortal before, as Ryuzaki had used it once.
Back then, Shiryu was amazed by the exquisite swordplay of Flying Immortal. Now, Shiryu was even more curious. Could Flying Immortal have reached an even higher level?
Soon, Shiryu truly witnessed it, and he couldn't remain calm!
The cigar he was holding fell to the ground.
He was utterly shocked. This… what terrifying talent!
Shiryu noticed that Ryuzaki's Flying Immortal technique, compared to before, possessed an elusive agility, as if it were no longer dead, but alive!
"Hahahaha..." Shiryu laughed, "Ryuzaki, if you had a Cursed Sword, I'm afraid no one in this world could be your match!"
"A Cursed Sword, huh? Heh, I'll have one."
Ryuzaki sheathed his sword; the sparring was over.
"Shiryu, my Divine Punishment Army is in your hands!"
"Oh? Aren't you staying?"
"Well, I have some things to do. You can kill any pirates you want, but leave the Devil Fruit users for me."
"Oh? Why?"
"I have a way to obtain their Devil Fruits immediately after killing them."
"Hahahaha... This is so interesting!"
Two days later.
Misagre Island!
A warship, a Divine Punishment Army warship, floated in the sky.
Needless to say, this was Kuina's Float-Float Fruit ability.
The Divine Punishment Army was now a fully formed army, with Ryuzaki as its supreme commander.
The strongest fighting force includes Enel, Law, Lami, Reiju, Kuina, Monet, and Shiryu of the Rain.
Monet, as Ryuzaki's secretary, will not participate in combat; the others will generally be sent out to fight.
Of course, these "battles" are also a form of training, not only in combat skills but also in command.
Although Shiryu is in overall charge, the actual command is handled entirely by Law.
Section 196
The long-dormant Divine Punishment Army has finally emerged, wreaking havoc in the New World.
Within ten days, they wiped out seventeen pirate crews, all captains with bounties exceeding 100 million.
Even with a plethora of pirates in the New World, the speed at which they destroyed seventeen crews in ten days is truly terrifying.
The World Government is overjoyed, while the pirates are utterly shocked.
Chapter 136: Spirit and Blade (Part 2)
The World Government is overjoyed, while the pirates are utterly shocked.
Especially near the G-1 branch, the pirates dare not plunder or harass, nor attack the Navy's supply ships.
Because any attack would incur the Divine Punishment Army's devastating retaliation.
While the Divine Punishment Army began to display its might in the New World, Ryuzaki, the highest-ranking officer of the Divine Punishment Army, distanced himself from the New World and arrived at a quiet and beautiful village.
This is Syrup Village, Usopp's hometown in the original story.
But Ryuzaki came here not for Usopp, but for a ship that would be born many years later—the Going Merry.
Ryuzaki valued it so much because the Going Merry had a Ship Spirit (Klabautermann).
Yes!
Ryuzaki had long had this idea and this plan!
He wanted to forge a sword for himself, but he lacked one crucial element—a spirit!
The concept of a Cursed Sword was too narrow; to be precise, it needed to be a Spirit Sword.
If it were just the kind of Cursed Sword found in the One Piece world, Ryuzaki wouldn't be satisfied.
For example, the Sandai Kitetsu, even with its spirit, wasn't strong.
What Ryuzaki needed was a powerful Spirit Sword, and for that, he needed one thing: a spirit.
Any kind of spirit would do.
But as far as Ryuzaki knew, the most promising one in the One Piece world was the Ship Spirit born from the Going Merry.
Ryuzaki wanted to infuse the Ship Spirit into the sword, thus creating the strongest blade.
Moreover, he would infuse not only the Ship Spirit, but also blood.
Ryuzaki's own blood, and... the blood of that beautiful young lady, Kaya.
Ryuzaki knew that the Going Merry was a gift from Kaya to the Straw Hat Pirates.
Her blood, along with her blessing, was indispensable.
...
Of course, the forging process was long and complex; take it slow. Infusing the Ship's Spirit was only the final step.
For now, prepare the preliminary work.
That day, a blacksmith shop appeared in Syrup Village.
Strangely, the owner of this blacksmith shop didn't take any business.
People passing by would hear clanging sounds coming from inside.
If they tried to take a look, they were chased away!
In short, the blacksmith was a very eccentric person; that blacksmith was Ryuzaki!
Ryuzaki was now avoiding contact with people.
He was engaged in the initial forging process and didn't bother with idlers.
Except for occasionally returning to the Divine Punishment Army, Ryuzaki spent almost all his time in the blacksmith shop.
Time passed quickly.
"Winter has arrived!"
Ryuzaki stepped out of the blacksmith's shop, looking at the snow falling outside. He put his hands behind his back, admiring the snowy scenery.
After months of work, the first stage was complete, the prototype was almost finished.
Now, it was time to draw blood!
Ryuzaki closed his eyes slightly, quietly waiting—waiting for nightfall!
When the pitch-black night fell, the temperature dropped even further, and the entire village of Syrup Village became even colder!
In the darkness, a figure moved swiftly.
It was a man's figure; it was Ryuzaki.
He quietly sneaked into the home of a wealthy family in Syrup Village.
A room on the north side was the bedroom of the mistress and master of the house.
Chapter 137: Kaya's Dream
Although it was late at night, faint sounds could be heard from the room, seemingly indicating intimate activities.
Passing through a large living room, on the south side, a small bedroom belonged to the wealthy family's young lady, Kaya.
Ryuzaki silently slipped into the young lady's boudoir.
Seeing Kaya curled up in the blankets, fast asleep, he walked over, lifted the blankets, and gently picked her up.
Then, Ryuzaki took Kaya and disappeared from the bedroom.
He didn't know how much time had passed, but when Kaya groggily opened her eyes, she found her surroundings strange. She was being gently held in the arms of an older brother, and beside her was a large fireplace.
Section 197
Inside the furnace stood an unfinished sword, glowing red-hot from the fire.
The flames flickered, making the surroundings faintly visible.
"You... who are you? Let me go..."
"603." (Note: This might be a typo or reference to chapter/date/something else, leaving as is or ignoring).
"Don't be nervous, Kaya, you're just dreaming!"
"Dream?"
"Yes, you're afraid of the cold at night, so you dreamt of flames."
"Really?"
Looking at the innocent and naive little girl, Ryuzaki couldn't resist pinching her soft cheek.
"Of course it's true, little girl, you're having romantic feelings, so you dreamt of a handsome guy like me."
"I... I'm not!"
"Shh—don't talk, just feel the warmth."
Warm?
Kaya shrank back again, this time snuggling closer to Ryuzaki.
The blacksmith shop had a furnace, so it was quite warm.
However, the blacksmith shop was a bit rudimentary, and the cold wind from outside could still blow in, making the little girl even more afraid of the cold and huddled closer to Ryuzaki.
What could Ryuzaki say about this?
Of course, he hugged Kaya even tighter!
"Kaya, let me tell you a story!"
"A story?"
"Yes, in legend, there was a blacksmith..."
Half an hour passed in the blink of an eye, and Kaya, half-asleep, fell asleep while listening to the story!
The next day!
When Kaya woke up in bed, recalling the events of the previous night, she felt very strange.
It felt so real, yet also like a dream.
Kaya didn't think much of it.
But the second day, the third day, the fourth day, the dream continued!
So much so that when Kaya went to sleep at night, crawling into the cold blankets, deep down she longed for that dream—a dream of a large fireplace and a warm older brother telling her stories.
Finally, one night...
"Big brother, can't you tell me a different story?"
"Oh? Then tell me, what's my story about?"
"It's about a blacksmith who works day and night, trying to forge the most powerful spirit sword. Then his wife, for her husband's dream, sacrifices her blood and blessing to forge the sword."
"Hehehehe... Kaya, you're listening very attentively!"
"No, I've heard this story so many times, of course I know it well!"
"Well, that's true, but Kaya, do you know why? Why do you always have the same dream?"
"Eh? I... I don't know!"
"Because, that blacksmith is me, and that wife is you!"
"Hehehehe... I'm only seven years old, big brother is so funny."
"That's your past life!"
"Past life?"
Chapter 137: Kaya's Dream (Part 2)
"A past life?"
"Yes, you were a virtuous wife. Even after reincarnation, you still longed for your husband from your past life."
"Really?"
"Yes, Kaya, you even gave that sword a name!"
"What name?"
"Merry! Its name is Merry. It is because of your blood and your most loyal blessing that Merry can become the most powerful Spirit Sword in the world..."
Ryuzaki patiently guided Kaya step by step into believing the story he had fabricated.
He told a poignant and beautiful tale.
The story touched the kind and innocent Kaya. In this cold winter, the warmth of their embrace made Kaya's eyes gradually become misty.
"Big brother, I... I want to offer you my blood and blessing."
"It will hurt a lot, Kaya!"
"Kaya, don't be afraid!"
"Then remember this well, my name is Ryuzaki. Kaya, together, with our blood, we will forge the strongest sword in the world—Merry!"
The knife cut her finger, both Ryuzaki's and Kaya's.
Cutting her finger with a knife is naturally very painful, and as a wealthy young lady, Kaya naturally felt the pain intensely, but she gritted her teeth and endured it!
After an unknown amount of time, Kaya fell into a deep sleep...
When she woke up the next day, Kaya looked at her finger and found there was no wound.
Kaya found it strange; she had clearly cut herself with a knife last night, so how could it be fine?
"That's right, it was just a dream!"
Kaya felt relieved, but she still missed that dream, that single feeling of warmth in the cold.
Section 198
Later!
Kaya would still have that dream from time to time. Each time, she would snuggle in Ryuzaki's arms, leaning against the fireplace, warmly enjoying a small moment of happiness.
Although she would offer her blood and blessings many times, each time she woke up, the finger that was cut in the "dream" would still be unmarked.
This made Kaya firmly believe that she was having a dream.
And the older brother named Ryuzaki in the dream was her husband from her past life.
Because of this, coupled with the warm environment, Kaya's feelings for Ryuzaki grew stronger, and she was willing to offer her blood and blessings for him, sincerely blessing the sword.
Together, they blessed Merry!
The sword!
A sword with a spirit, the source of its spirit is varied.
For example, a Klabautermann (Ship Spirit) comes from friendship and bonds.
Ryuzaki had read many materials and knew that blessing was also a kind of blessing.
The blessed Merry was both a famous sword that would be born in the future and the Going Merry that would be built in the future.
The long winter passed!
Kaya no longer had that strange dream.
However, occasionally, when she passed by a blacksmith shop and heard the clanging of hammering metal, she always felt a sense of familiarity.
She had wanted to go in and take a look, but the blacksmith shop door was always locked, so she had to give up!
This blacksmith shop was none other than Ryuzaki's blacksmith shop.
Looking at the red-hot, eerily bright red of the shop, reflecting Ryuzaki's wicked smile, she felt a sense of awe.
Blood, blessing, and bond!
Of these three, she had blood and blessing!
Only bond remained.
But that would have to wait until the Straw Hat Pirates were formed, which would take many years!
A Cursed Sword… no, it should be called a Spirit Sword. Every Spirit Sword has certain characteristics.
For example, Shiryu's Cursed Sword was primarily for killing.
The sword Ryuzaki planned to forge for himself would be primarily for protection, a sword that could protect its master, a sword with a powerful spiritual consciousness.
Chapter 138: The Sprout of Hatred
Merry will be born as a Ship Spirit, and then as a Sword Spirit, protecting Ryuzaki!
This is Ryuzaki's plan.
Ryuzaki sat in the blacksmith's shop, poured himself a glass of wine, and savored it with relish.
After that winter, Ryuzaki was already sixteen.
At this age, height is relatively easy to increase, and now, Ryuzaki was a little taller than before!
Half-drunk, Ryuzaki opened the window and let the breeze blow through.
"Huh? That person… could it be Usopp?"
Ryuzaki saw a little boy in the distance running into the village shouting "Pirates are coming!" and thought to himself that this guy really was just like the original character!
However, seeing Usopp reminded Ryuzaki of Usopp's father—Yasopp.
The last time he fought Shanks, he was hit by Yasopp's Seastone bullet.
Every time he thought about this, Ryuzaki felt very annoyed.
Ryuzaki's eyes darted around, and a mischievous idea came to him.
At this moment, after shouting "Pirates are coming!" for a while in the village, Usopp was happily catching his breath and resting under a tree outside the village.
It seemed that lying was a fun thing for him!
"Yo, Usopp!"
"Eh? Who? Who's talking to me?"
"Don't be nervous, Usopp, just listen."
"Up in the tree?" Usopp took out his slingshot and aimed at the large tree behind him.
"Hehe, I told you, don't be nervous!"
"Who are you? Who are you?"
At this moment, Ryuzaki was wearing a cat-face mask, and Usopp had no idea who Ryuzaki was, so he was extremely wary.
"So you're so eager to know my identity? Fine, I'm... a Marine!"
"What? A Marine?"
"Hehehe, don't worry, I'm not here for a nobody like you. I'm just investigating Yasopp, a member of the Red Hair Pirates, who is also your father!"
"You know my father?"
"Oh? You admire him?"
"That's right, I want to be a pirate like him."
"Like him? That means abandoning your wife and children!"
"What? What did you say? You're not allowed to insult my father."
"Hehehehe... Usopp, you should read the news more often. The Red Hair Pirates frequently travel to the East Blue. As a key member of the Red Hair Pirates, your father has naturally been to the East Blue many times, but..."
Ryuzaki changed the subject: "He's never come home to visit you and your mother, has he? Ah, ah, your mother must have passed away. What a pitiful woman, played with by your father and then carelessly discarded..."
Before he could finish speaking, a small pebble flew over.
"Hehehehe... This weak and powerless thing can't hurt me!"
Ryuzaki looked at Usopp's tearful eyes, his face full of grief and anger, and felt smug. At this rate, it seems that I can also become the King of Trash Talk!
Section 199
Despite Usopp firing numerous pebbles at Ryuzaki with his slingshot, Ryuzaki showed no sign of stopping.
"Poor thing, poor thing, do you know why your father refuses to come back to see you and your mother?"
"Because he's ashamed. After all, he's one of the Four Emperors' main crew members, while your mother is just an ugly woman, an ignorant village girl..."
"Shut up, shut up, don't say anymore!"
"Heh heh, I'll say it anyway, what your father hates most is your mother's long nose..."
"Shut up, shut up..."
Chapter 138: The Sprout of Hatred (Part 2)
"Shut up, shut up..."
Usopp's tears streamed down his face; he practically screamed!
Seeing Usopp's heartbroken state, Ryuzaki nodded in satisfaction. In this way, Usopp's young heart would hate Yasopp.
However, before leaving, Ryuzaki said again, "Usopp, although in your father's eyes your mother is an ugly woman, a country bumpkin, in my eyes, she is the most beautiful woman in the world!"
"To prevent you from hating your father, she always spoke of his good points, and as for his shameful deeds, she covered them all up for him. What a great woman she is!"
These words made Usopp burst into tears, dropping his slingshot and everything else!
Tsk tsk… effective, I'm outta here!
I really look forward to the scene when Usopp meets Yasopp!
That will definitely be very interesting.
"Hehehehe…" Ryuzaki chuckled mischievously.
Then the next day, Usopp set sail!
He set out on a raft made of a few broken logs, saying he was going to find his father and demand an explanation.
As a result, a wave hit, the raft broke apart, and Usopp almost drowned.
After learning about this, Ryuzaki sighed inwardly, realizing he had truly committed a terrible sin!
Ryuzaki wondered if he should apologize to Usopp.
Just then, Sengoku called via Den Den Mushi.
"Sword Immortal!" Sengoku's voice was cold.
"Eh? It's me, what's up, Sengoku?"
"Hmph, I knew it was you. I'm asking you, why aren't you in the Marines?"
"Well, Shiryu's here!"
"I'm asking you, are you just here to do nothing?"
"Uh... I don't like doing nothing, I prefer being a kept man."
"It's not about food..." Sengoku roared, then continued, "Fine, since you're free anyway, you can carry out a mission."
"Another mission? No way, Sengoku, I need to apologize to a young man, I'm very busy."
"Apologize my ass!"
...
"Sengoku, where's your manners?"
There was silence on the other end of the Den Den Mushi, and after a long while, Sengoku's awkward voice came through: "Anyway, you need to carry out this mission."
"Okay, tell me, what mission?"
"Go to Foosha Village, to monitor!"
"Foosha Village? Monitor?"
Ryuzaki was stunned, and after listening for a long time, he finally understood. It turned out that the Navy had received intelligence that Dragon had returned to the East Blue.
However, they couldn't pinpoint Dragon's exact location, so Sengoku had a brilliant idea—to wait and see.
Sengoku placed people to monitor various locations where Dragon might appear.
Foosha Village was a crucial location, a place Dragon was highly likely to go, and required a reliable person to handle it. Ryuzaki was the perfect candidate!
As time passed, more and more high-ranking officials learned of Ryuzaki's identity.
Sengoku, as Fleet Admiral, also learned through some very special channels about Ryuzaki's undercover work in Foosha Village.
"I understand, Sengoku. I'll take this mission, but if Dragon doesn't show up, there's nothing I can do!"
"Yes, I understand. Don't worry, this mission won't be long, at least a month, at most three months!"
Ryuzaki thought to himself after ending the call with Sengoku.
Chapter 139: Usopp in Foosha Village (Note: Chapter title likely means "Instead of Usopp/Meanwhile in Foosha Village" or implies Usopp's influence, but context is Ryuzaki going to Foosha Village).
Usopp, it's not that I don't want to apologize, it's just that Sengoku, that old bastard, is too wicked. He won't let me apologize, and he even insulted you!
Leaving for a while isn't a problem.
Ryuzaki transferred Monet over; the blacksmith shop can be left in her care for now. As long as the fire in the furnace stays burning, that's fine!
Ryuzaki, having changed his clothes, quietly returned to Foosha Village.
This was destined to be a warm and touching day.
Makino was overjoyed at Ryuzaki's return and prepared a delicious meal that evening.
Ryuzaki enjoyed a hearty meal.
He sighed, reflecting on how joyful the time spent with Makino truly was.
"Ryuzaki, how long are you staying this time?"
"One to three months, I guess!"
"Great!"
Section 200
"Sister Makino, did you miss me?"
"Mmm!" Makino nodded shyly.
In the candlelight, Makino's face was flushed crimson.
At this moment, Ryuzaki was stunned!
"Sister Makino, I..."
"Ryuzaki, you don't have to call me sister." Makino said softly.
"Makino, let's get married!"
"Get married?"
"Yes, heaven is our father, earth is our mother. After drinking the nuptial wine, you will be my woman!"
Ryuzaki grabbed Makino's hand and said very seriously.
Hearing this, Makino's face turned even redder, but she nodded shyly in agreement!
In her heart, she had already fallen for Ryuzaki. During the days Ryuzaki was away, she missed him even more. Now, all that was left was to confess her feelings!
Ryuzaki didn't give Makino many promises, and Makino didn't want any promises either. She didn't want anything; she only wanted Ryuzaki!
After a simple ceremony, Ryuzaki carried Makino into her boudoir.
Ryuzaki gently placed her on the bed and began to undress her…
"Ryuzaki, this is my first time, be gentle…"
They gazed at each other tenderly.
A towering pillar!
Several sunsets reddened the sky.
That night, Ryuzaki fully enjoyed Makino's tenderness.
After a long night of passionate lovemaking, a lazy morning arrived.
Makino lay in Ryuzaki's arms like a sleeping kitten, a happy smile on her face.
Ryuzaki stared at Makino; this sleeping beauty now possessed a unique charm, perhaps because she had transformed from a girl into a woman!
But just then, the Den Den Mushi rang, which annoyed Ryuzaki. Damn it, couldn't he just enjoy life?
"Who is it, disturbing someone's romantic life so early in the morning? Have you no manners?"
"Romantic life?"
The person on the other end of the Den Den Mushi was taken aback, then angrily cursed, "You bastard, you bastard! I sent you on a surveillance mission, and you went off to have some fun! You..."
Ryuzaki hung up the Den Den Mushi. Uh... it seemed to be Sengoku's voice. He glanced at the Den Den Mushi; yes, this Den Den Mushi was indeed specifically for contacting Sengoku.
Ryuzaki scratched his head, chuckling awkwardly.
"Ryuzaki!"
"Makino, you're awake!"
Ryuzaki looked at Makino, who had opened her eyes sleepily, looking completely confused... Okay, she seemed to have heard something. How should he explain this?
Chapter 139: Soaking in the Foosha Village (Part 2)
Ryuzaki looked at Makino, who had opened her eyes sleepily, looking completely confused... Okay, she seemed to have heard something. How should he explain this?
"Ryuzaki, you don't need to explain. I don't care about your identity."
"No, Makino! I'll tell you."
He'd seen everything, things he shouldn't have seen. Yes, that's called being completely honest!
This time, Ryuzaki didn't hide anything and told Makino about his infiltration of Foosha Village.
Unexpectedly, Makino didn't blame him at all. She just tenderly pulled Ryuzaki's head into her arms and buried it in her chest.
"You must have had a hard time!"
"Makino…"
"I'm your woman. If you're tired, lean on me!"
"Thank you, but Makino, I won't make things difficult for you. I know you love Foosha Village, so I promise you, I will never kill anyone from Foosha Village."
"But… but what if you disobey the World Government? You'll be in great danger."
"For you, it's worth it!"
Makino was deeply moved.
At this moment, for Ryuzaki, the mission to go to "Special Girls" required him to soak in a gentle embrace until his legs were weak.
This was a happy time for Ryuzaki and Makino.
"Revolutionary Army or pirates, do whatever you want."
Ryuzaki spent over four months indulging in pleasure, ignoring Sengoku's calls.
Sengoku was incredibly frustrated. "Damn it, I sent you on a mission, and you were out having a good time."
And the result?
They failed to capture Dragon, not only failing to capture him but also failing to uncover a single clue.
Sengoku sat dejectedly in his office, like a wronged wife.
Fortunately, it was a joint operation. Sengoku's side failed, but the Army failed, and the World Government's spies failed too!
The spies planted in various locations failed to find any trace of Dragon.
In short, everyone failed, and they shared the responsibility, and shared the fun.
Out of consideration for Ryuzaki saving Corazon, Sengoku covered up Ryuzaki's carefree life in Foosha Village.
Basically, as long as Ryuzaki doesn't commit any major mistakes like rebelling against the World Government, Sengoku covers for his minor errors.
Now, Ryuzaki has returned, been reprimanded by Sengoku, and then banished to the New World