Chapter 16: Sabaody Archipelago(II)

Back at the auction house, Disco frantically called his boss, who was none other than Donquixote Doflamingo. He explained the chaotic situation, but Doflamingo seemed entirely uninterested. "I don't care about the conflict or the slavery trade anymore,"

Doflamingo said dismissively. "You're on your own, Disco." He then mentioned that the Seven Warlords of the Sea had been summoned to deal with the Whitebeard Pirates, leaving Disco to handle the mess by himself.

As tension mounted outside, Rayleigh calmly removed the explosive collar from Camie's neck. Without using a key, he threw the collar away just before it exploded, leaving the Straw Hats in awe.

Itachi observed the scene and asked Robin, "What Devil Fruit power does he have?"

Robin shook her head and replied, "I don't think it's a Devil Fruit power."

Itachi looked at her, intrigued. "Then what is it?"

Robin thought for a moment before saying, "I think it's Haki."

Itachi gave her a thoughtful look. "Haki?"

Robin nodded in confirmation. Rayleigh, who had been watching the exchange with a smile, commented, "She's right. By the look on your face, I can tell you're curious about it, aren't you?"

Itachi nodded, and Rayleigh chuckled. "We'll talk about it some other time."

Franky, having just found the keys to the collars, was mildly annoyed and tossed them to the remaining slaves so they could free themselves. "Could've saved me some trouble, old man," Franky grumbled.

Rayleigh then turned to Kid and Law, offering a polite apology for the blast from earlier. "Sorry about that, but you guys must be pretty tough to have survived it," he remarked with a smile.

Kid and Law, both equally surprised to encounter the legendary "Dark King," brushed off the apology. "We're fine," Kid replied, his tone respectful yet confident. "Didn't expect to run into someone like you here."

Rayleigh chuckled. "I'm just a simple coating engineer now. Don't go using that old title; I prefer a peaceful life these days."

He glanced over at Hatchan and thanked the Straw Hats for their help. "But you all should probably get moving. The Marines have this place surrounded."

Outside, the Marines were ready for a fight. They demanded the release of the World Nobles, but Kid stepped forward, offering to handle the Marines so the others could escape. Luffy and Law, however, weren't about to let Kid have all the fun. "You think we're gonna let you handle this alone?" Luffy grinned, stepping up beside him.

Law smirked, readying himself. "Yeah, we're in this together."

Seeing this, the rest of the Straw Hats prepared for battle, determination in their eyes. Meanwhile, the giant slave they had freed earlier offered to help the other slaves escape, thanking the Straw Hats for setting them free.

Outside, the Marines opened fire with mortars, but Luffy and Kid swiftly countered the attack. Luffy used his Gomu Gomu no Fusen move to bounce the shells back, while Kid repelled them with a mere wave of his hand, showcasing his magnetic powers. Meanwhile, Law used his Devil Fruit ability to create a spherical barrier, severing Marine's head without killing him. He replaced the Marine's head with a cannonball that exploded, causing chaos among the soldiers.

Itachi was observing them, intrigued by one with magnetic power and the other with surgical abilities. That's unique.

Despite realizing how strong their opponents are, the Marines continue to press the attack. Luffy, Kid, and Law quickly go on the offensive, easily taking down waves of Marines. Luffy uses his Gear 3 technique, enlarging his limbs to deliver massive blows. Law activates his ROOM move, creating a space where he can slice and rearrange body parts with ease, leaving the Marines bewildered and helpless. Kid manipulates metal with his powers, forming a massive arm out of debris and smashing it into the Marine forces.

The Straw Hats arrive just in time to witness the destruction caused by the three captains' rampage. "Whoa, they've really done a number here," Usopp mutters, staring wide-eyed at the chaos.

Rayleigh watches from a distance, a hint of delight in his eyes as he observes the mayhem. "They sure know how to cause a ruckus," he chuckles.

Meanwhile, more Marine reinforcements start to pour in, hoping to contain the pirates until Admiral Kizaru arrives. Kid glances at the newcomers, clearly unimpressed. "We don't have time to stick around for that guy," he says, preparing to leave. He turns to Luffy, smirking. "Next time we meet, I won't be so merciful."

Luffy grins back, unfazed. "Fine by me, but just remember—I'm the one who's going to find the One Piece!"

Law and Kid exchange a quick look of surprise at Luffy's bold claim. "You really don't hold back, do you?" Law says, a faint smile on his face.

Kid chuckles. "Anyone who makes that claim in the Grand Line would be laughed at, but in the New World? If you don't have the guts to say it, you're as good as dead." He gives Luffy a nod. "See you in the New World." With that, Kid and his crew plow through the remaining Marines, clearing a path for their escape.

Law decides to head back towards the auction house, and his crewmate Bepo steps in, taking out Marines who try to block their path. The Straw Hats jump into the fray as well, spotting Duval and the Fish Riders trying to help. Marines prepare to shoot Duval, but Robin uses her Devil Fruit powers to pull him out of harm's way just in time.

The others work together to clear a path, allowing Franky and Rayleigh to lead Camie, Hatchan, and Pappag to safety. "We've got to get them out first," Franky shouts. Nami nods, using her Thunderbolt Tempo to cover their retreat with a storm of lightning, scattering the Marines.

Itachi activated his jutsu, announcing, "Wind Release: Jutsu!" A powerful gust of wind surged forth, sending all the Marines flying.

Nami, watching the display, exclaimed with a sense of awe, "Nice one, Itachi!"

Itachi gave a nod in response.

A few moments later, Law emerges from the auction house with a tall man by his side. "Who's that?" Sanji asks, narrowing his eyes.

Law grins. "Jean Bart, a former pirate captain who was enslaved by the Nobles. He's joining my crew as thanks for freeing him." Jean Bart nods, looking grateful.

"Half of that thanks should go to Luffy," Law adds with a smirk. Meanwhile, Kid's crew manages to destroy a bridge behind them, slowing the Marines' advance. "Looks like we're finally getting out of here," Sanji says, glancing around.

Rayleigh steps forward, his expression calm despite the danger. "Let's head back to Shakky's bar. We need to treat Hatchan's wound first."

The group nods, quickly making their way back to the bar.

Itachi walked alongside Robin and Chopper as they made their way inside. He asked, "Have you all been here before?"

Robin nodded. "Yes, he's the one we were looking for."

Itachi inquired, "The engineer, right?"

Robin nodded again, and Chopper added, "Yeah, he'll help us coat our ship."

Itachi acknowledged this with a nod. Upon entering, Shakky looked at the crew and said, "So, you finally brought him back." She then noticed the new faces and remarked, "And I see we have some new faces here. One of them is really handsome, isn't he?"

Rayleigh gave Itachi a curious glance, and Itachi felt a bit self-conscious under the scrutiny. Robin, noticing the interaction, tightened her grip on Itachi's hand with an eerie smile. Shakky understood and smirked, continuing to tend to Hatchan's gunshot wound while the rest of the crew gathered around Rayleigh.

Itachi looked at Robin and said, "Ah, Robin, my hand…"

She glanced at him with that same eerie smile and asked, "Is there a problem, Itachi?"

Itachi quickly shook his head. "No, no, no. But could you loosen your grip a bit?"

Robin's hold remained tight, and Shakky, while tending to Hatchan's wound, commented with a smirk, "I think someone's jealous."

Nami, Usopp, and Franky all smirked in agreement. Nami said, "She just complemented him, no need to be so intense."

Robin removed her hands, blushing slightly, and Itachi had a hint of pink on his cheeks as well. "Guys, focus, will you?" he said.

Sanji, looking angry, added, "I knew from the start he was messing with my darling Robin!"

Luffy was the one eager for answers.

"So, you were part of Gol D. Roger's crew?" Luffy asks, eyes wide with amazement.

Rayleigh nods with a smile. "That's right. I served as his first mate."

Everyone exchanges stunned looks except Robin and Itachi. "I can't believe it," Nami mutters. "We've been talking to a legend this whole time."

Sanji furrows his brow. "If you were with Roger, how are you still alive? I thought his crew was captured after he was executed."

Rayleigh shakes his head. "That's what the government wanted everyone to believe. In reality, Roger turned himself in. The government just spread the story of his capture to show their strength to the public."

The room falls silent, the Straw Hats processing this new information. "So, why would he turn himself in?" Itachi asks, her voice filled with curiosity.

Rayleigh sighs. "Four years before his execution, Roger came down with an incurable disease. We happened to come across Crocus at the entrance of the Grand Line, and he joined us on Roger's final journey to help keep his disease in check."

"Crocus?" Brook exclaims, his eye sockets widening. "He was your ship's doctor?"

Rayleigh nods. "Yes, he was. We sailed together for three years, eventually managing to conquer the Grand Line. That's when Roger was dubbed the Pirate King. But by then, the title didn't mean much to him. He knew he was close to death, so he chose to enjoy the time he had left with his crew, throwing parties and fighting to cope with the future."

"Sounds like he made the most of it," Luffy says, a smile tugging at his lips.

Rayleigh chuckles. "He did. Eventually, Roger disbanded the crew, and we all went our separate ways, our fates unknown to the world."

Brook's expression softens a hint of sadness in his voice. "Crocus joined you to find a certain pirate crew, didn't he?"

Rayleigh's eyes meet Brook's. "Yes. He was looking for the Rumbar Pirates. I'm guessing that's a crew you know well."

Brook nods, tears welling in his eyes. "Yes, they were my friends…my family."

Rayleigh leaned back in his chair, his eyes distant as he continued his story. "One year after we conquered the Grand Line, Roger did something that shocked us all—he turned himself in to the Marines."

Itachi observed thoughtfully and said, "Let me guess. The Marines turned Roger's execution into a grand spectacle to make a statement as the king of the pirates, hoping to instill fear in pirates around the world."

Rayleigh, surprised by Itachi's insight, responded, "You're very perceptive. Yes, that was the intention. But Roger had other plans. His last words to me were, 'I ain't gonna die, partner.' On the day of his execution, he delivered his famous speech. Roger's words ignited a flame that couldn't be extinguished. He spoke of his treasure, the One Piece, and challenged anyone brave enough to seek it out. That speech is what ushered in this current age of piracy. It's the reason so many pirates are now searching for the ultimate prize."

The Straw Hats listened, captivated by the tale. The room was filled with a mix of admiration and astonishment. "So, you're telling us Roger did all of that on purpose?" Franky asked, his voice filled with awe.

Rayleigh smiled softly. "He knew exactly what he was doing. He wanted to give people hope, to inspire them to chase their dreams, just like he did."

"Wow," Luffy murmured, his eyes sparkling with admiration. "Roger was incredible!"

Rayleigh chuckled. "Indeed, he was." Rayleigh continued. "In fact, Shanks, who was an apprentice on Roger's ship along with Buggy, told me something interesting when we met ten years after Roger's execution. He said he met a kid who said the same things Roger used to say. That kid was you, Luffy."

The conversation was abruptly interrupted as the scene shifted to a harbor at Grove 27. There, a pirate crew was preparing to set sail when they noticed a ship approaching on the horizon. Suddenly, a cannonball was fired from the ship, and to their shock, a person was standing on top of it.

The cannonball landed with a thud in the middle of the harbor, and the figure leapt off, revealing himself to be Kizaru. Calmly, he pulled out a Den Den Mushi and waited for further orders. The pirates stared in disbelief, unsure of what to make of the bizarre sight.

Back at Shakky's bar, Rayleigh turned his attention back to the Straw Hats. "You've all made it quite far into the Grand Line," he said, his tone appreciative. "As a reward, I'll coat your ship for free."

The crew erupted into cheers at the news. "That's amazing!" Chopper exclaimed, his eyes wide with excitement.

But Robin took the opportunity to ask a question that had been on her mind. "Rayleigh, about the Void Century… Roger left a note on the Poneglyph in Skypiea. Does that mean the Roger Pirates learned the whole history?"

Rayleigh nodded thoughtfully. "Yes, we did. But even though we discovered the truth, I'd advise you to continue seeking it on your own. You might come to different conclusions than we did."

Robin considered his words carefully before responding. "Thank you, Rayleigh. I think I will continue searching on my own."

Rayleigh smiled approvingly. "A wise decision. Roger wasn't able to decipher everything himself; he just had a unique ability. He could hear the voice of all things. Someone like Clover might have understood more."

Usopp, looking restless, piped up. "But Robin, are you sure? Don't you want to hear the full story from someone who was actually there?"

Before Robin could respond, Luffy intervened, his expression serious. "No. We're not asking about the One Piece."

The crew turned to look at him, surprised by his tone. "Why not?" Usopp asked.

Luffy's face was shouted standing on the table. "Because the mystery is part of the adventure. If we knew everything already, what would be the point? I don't want to go on a boring adventure like that!"

There was a moment of silence as the crew absorbed his words. Then, slowly, they all nodded in agreement.

"You're right, Luffy," Nami said, smiling. "It wouldn't be any fun if we knew everything in advance."

Zoro smirk and itachi gave a small smile and said I agree

Rayleigh chuckled. "You really are just like him, Luffy. Always seeking adventure."

Luffy grinned back, his excitement palpable. "I want to find out for myself. That's what makes it worth it!"

Rayleigh turned his sharp gaze to Luffy, a hint of challenge in his eyes. "Do you really think you can conquer the Grand Line, Luffy?"

Luffy grinned confidently, shaking his head. "I'm not looking to conquer anything. I just want to be the freest person on the ocean. That's what being the Pirate King means to me."

Itachi, hearing this, grew more respectful toward his captain and couldn't help but give a small smile. Robin, standing beside him, looked at Luffy and smiled as well.

Rayleigh and Shakky exchanged knowing smiles, clearly pleased with Luffy's response. Rayleigh chuckled softly, "Spoken like a true pirate."

With a nod, Rayleigh added, "Alright then. I'll have your ship coated in three days. Until then, you all need to stay out of trouble."

The Straw Hats collectively sighed, knowing that avoiding trouble was easier said than done. But they nodded in agreement.

"I think we should leave" Nami suggested. "Before marin caught us."

Shakky handed each member a Vivre Card, a small piece of paper that could guide them back to Rayleigh when the coating was done. "Here, this will help you find your way back when the time comes."

As they prepared to leave, Luffy turned to their friends. "See you soon, Hatchan, Camie, Pappag! Stay safe, Shakky!"

With that, the Straw Hats headed back into the groves, ready to lay low for the next few days.

As they walked, Itachi sighed and said, "I think we should lay low for a while."

Robin nodded in agreement. "You're right."

Usopp also nodded. "Yes, we need to find a safe place to hide."

Luffy, full of excitement, suddenly suggested, "Let's hide in the theme park! That'd be fun!"

Chopper and Brook's eyes lit up at the idea, but the others groaned in exasperation. "That's the worst place to hide, Luffy!" Nami snapped. "It's crowded and we'll stand out!"

Meanwhile, over in Grove 27, chaos reigned. Pirates were frantically trying to keep their distance from Kizaru, one of the feared Admirals of the Marines. A bold pirate took a shot at him, but the bullet seemed to pass right through Kizaru, who stood unfazed.

Kizaru blurred in front of the group, his laid-back demeanor making his presence even more intimidating. "Excuse me, but do any of you know where I can find someone named Sentomaru?"

The pirates, too terrified to respond, turned and fled. Kizaru sighed and casually lifted his leg, unleashing a powerful kick. A beam of light shot out from his foot, blasting through the fleeing pirates and toppling a massive mangrove tree in the process.

His troops watched in disapproval, but Kizaru hardly seemed to notice. Nearby, Apoo observed the display with mild interest, seemingly unimpressed by Kizaru's overwhelming power.

Elsewhere in the grove, a different kind of chaos was unfolding. Marines were panicking as they found themselves suddenly transformed into either old men or children. At the center of this bizarre scene was Bonney, laughing uproariously as she devoured a mountain of food.

A group of Marines, meanwhile, found themselves facing Capone, who seemed entirely unconcerned. He coolly informed them, "You've already lost."

Back with Kizaru, he encountered Hawkins, who stood calmly amidst his crew, ignoring their pleas to run. "Today is not my day to die," Hawkins stated calmly, his voice filled with eerie certainty.

As all of this unfolded, the Straw Hats were still debating their hiding spots. Usopp, clearly stressed, was trying to convince Luffy for the hundredth time not to go back to the amusement park. Suddenly, a shadowy figure stepped in front of them, blocking their path.

Luffy blinked, curiosity piqued. "Hey, who are you?" he asked, tilting his head as he examined the mysterious figure standing before them.

As the Straw Hats continue through the grove, they unexpectedly come face to face with another Bartholomew Kuma, standing imposingly in their path. Without warning, the clone raises its hand and fires a laser beam straight at Luffy. Reacting quickly, Luffy dodges the beam, narrowly avoiding its destructive path. Chopper, watching in amazement, shouts, "Whoa! Did you see that, Luffy?!"

Luffy, equally impressed, nods. "Yeah, what was that?"

His crew quickly gathers around him, each with a mix of surprise and concern. "Luffy, this is just like Thriller Bark," Sanji points out, his expression serious. "We faced a guy just like this one back there!"

Itachi ready with the stance and he thought why is he here

Before they can fully process this information, Franky, driven by a surge of anger from their previous encounter, steps forward. "I've had enough of this guy!" he shouts. With a swift movement, he launches a Coup de Vent directly at the Kuma clone. The powerful blast sends the Warlord flying back, but he quickly regains his footing.

Realizing the seriousness of their situation, Luffy shifts into Gear 2, steam rising from his body. Sanji Zoro and Itachi move into fighting stances as well, ready to engage. "This one feels different," Zoro mutters, a sharp look in his eye. "He's not like the one we fought before." Itachi I know I can also see it it's different somehow in terms of power

As they prepare to attack, Franky, Usopp, and Brook just barely avoid another devastating blast from the Kuma clone. The laser beam scorches the ground where they stood moments ago, narrowly missing them. "That was close!" Usopp yelps, diving out of the way.

Seeing an opening, Luffy, Sanji, Zoro, and Itachi rush the clone, coordinating a powerful combo attack that knocks him off balance. As the clone crashes to the ground, Luffy glances at his crewmates, a frown creasing his brow. "Is this really the same Kuma?" he wonders aloud.

Sanji nods, a serious look on his face. "I was thinking the same thing. This one's not acting like the Kuma we fought on Thriller Bark."

Zoro, still holding his swords at the ready, adds, "Could there be more than one of these guys running around?"

Itachi, gripping his single sword, warned, "He's a mechanical doll. Be careful."

He then unleashed his Fireball Jutsu, creating a fiery explosion near the Kuma clone. "Find the opening and attack him!" Itachi instructed.

As the crew nodded and sprang into action, Itachi threw a kunai at the Kuma clone, but it didn't cut through. Quickly adapting, he used his Wind Release Jutsu to push the clone back slightly, creating an opening for the others.

As they contemplate this, the rest of the Straw Hats join the fray, coordinating their attacks to bring down the powerful clone. However, Zoro, still suffering from his wounds sustained during the events on Thriller Bark, struggles to stay on his feet. Seeing his condition, Sanji calls out to Luffy and Itachi, "Hey, take this thing down quick! We need to take care of Zoro!"

Luffy nods, determination in his eyes. "I know, but we can't let this thing keep attacking us!" he shouts back, focusing on the fight ahead.

Itachi shouted, "Usopp, take Zoro and run!"

Usopp nodded, swiftly lifting Zoro and carrying him away to safety.

Chopper, seeing an opportunity, charges forward and uses his Cloven Roseo Metel attack on Kuma. The powerful hit lands, causing the clone to growl in anger. Kuma turns to blast Chopper, but before he can, Franky steps in with his Strong Hammer, landing a solid punch. However, Kuma quickly retaliates, sending Franky flying through the air.

It Itachi, realizing the gravity of the situation, activated his Amaterasu on Kuma. However, Kuma dodged the attack with ease. Itachi frowned and said, "I don't have much choice." He then summoned his Susanoo, and the massive, towering figure—around 100 meters high—loomed over the battlefield.

The Straw Hats watched in awe as the colossal Susanoo stood imposingly. Itachi directed the Susanoo to stomp on Kuma, but Kuma evaded the attack. Kuma retaliated with his beams, but they had no effect on Susanoo. Kuma then punched Susanoo, but Itachi's shield absorbed the impact and reflected it back at Kuma. Despite this, Kuma managed to strike Susanoo down, forcing it to the ground with a powerful hit.

Just as Franky is about to crash into the ground, Robin uses her Spider Net ability to catch him, softening his fall. "Thanks, Robin!" Franky calls out, giving her a thumbs up.

The scene was chaotic as both Marines and pirates gazed in fear at the towering figure of Itachi's Susanoo. Kizaru, observing the massive apparition, muttered, "Ah, that looks like quite an opponent." Other prominent figures, including Drake, Law, Kid, Urouge, Apoo, Bege, Bonney, Hawkins, and Killer, also took in the sight with wide eyes.

Killer, visibly unsettled, remarked, "Those are demon eyes. Who is this?"

Bonney, her gaze fixed on the imposing Susanoo, asked, "Who exactly is this?"

Hawkins, clearly anxious, added, "It feels strange. That red giant with armor... our chances are only 4%." The aura of the Susanoo left everyone, pirates and Marines alike.

Brook attempts an aerial attack, but itachi said I told you run usoop nodded and he begin to run But before he can carry zoro, Kuma aims a laser beam at him. Usopp quickly intervenes, firing his Atlas Suisei to create a diversion. The explosion causes a momentary distraction, allowing Brook to evade the blast.

Surprisingly, Usopp's attack seems to have done more damage than expected. Franky observes closely, noting, "That Kuma clone is just like me—enhanced with weapons but still human. Usopp's explosive must have gotten inside his mouth and caused some serious internal damage."

Franky shouted, "Itachi, you can attack him now!"

Itachi, standing firm within his massive Susanoo, nodded in agreement. Channeling his focus, he drew his sword and directed it towards Kuma

The clone, enraged and badly damaged, tries to unleash a massive laser blast from its mouth. Robin, reacting quickly, uses her abilities to clamp its mouth shut, causing the laser to explode inside its own head. The explosion leaves the clone momentarily stunned, allowing Nami to strike with her Thunder Lance Tempo, delivering a powerful electric shock.

The sword strike from Itachi's Susanoo shakes the island. The force propels the clone, crashing into a wall with tremendous speed. The impact shatters buildings and sends a strong gust of wind through Grove 27. Kizaru, feeling the force of the explosion, says, "I think we should leave," as he receives a call from a Den Den Mushi. The voice on the other end says, "Did you see that?" Kizaru replies, "Yeah, I did. That was 'Demon Eyes' Itachi Uchiha." The voice responds, "Ah, right. I'll be on my way back to the Straw Hats."

Meanwhile, Luffy exclaims, "Wow, Itachi, that was so cool!" Robin approaches Itachi, noticing he is slightly sweating. She says, "I think you can still fight, Itachi." Itachi nods, replying, "I still have some chakra left." With that, Itachi steps out of his Susanoo and takes a deep breath.

Despite this, the Kuma clone goes berserk, attacking wildly with even more intensity. "He's not going down yet," Sanji grunts. Itachi examines the clone closely and says, "Look at its shoulder. We should focus our attacks there." Sanji nods, preparing his next move. "Let's finish this!" he declares.

With a burst of speed, Sanji unleashes his Flambage Shot, knocking the clone back. Zoro follows up with Kiki Kyutoryu: Ashura and Ashura: Makyusen, creating a devastating attack that further weakens the clone.

Itachi infuses chakra into his sword, rushing forward to deliver a grave cut to the clone's shoulder. He shouts, "Luffy, now!"

Seizing the opportunity, Luffy activates Gear 3, his arm growing massive as he prepares to strike. "Gomu Gomu no... Gigant Rifle!" he yells, bringing his enormous fist crashing down onto the clone. The impact is tremendous, sending shockwaves through the ground and creating a huge crater.

As the dust settles, the Straw Hats stand ready, breathing heavily from the intense battle. The Kuma clone lies defeated at their feet, sparking and smoking from the damage it has sustained. Luffy, panting but smiling, turns to his crew. "Great job, everyone. We took him down!"

Sanji stood up and went toward Kuma, noticing PX-4 returning.

"Guys, there's something coming back," Sanji announced.

Usopp asked, "PX-4? What does that mean?"

Robin replied thoughtfully, "PX-4 is a model of Pacifista. It seems like there might be multiple Kuma models."

Chopper's eyes widened as he exclaimed, "So you mean there are four Kumas?"

Robin nodded. "It might be possible."

Itachi, still standing but feeling something on a nearby tree branch, quickly threw a kunai. The figure on the branch dodged.

The figure standing before the Straw Hats introduces himself with a confident smirk. "I am Sentomaru," he declares, his voice firm and authoritative. "And this," he gestures to the mechanical figure beside him, "is a Pacifista, PX-1. The one you just defeated was PX-4."

Before they can react further, PX-1 raises its arm, charging a laser aimed directly at the group. Luffy yells, "Watch out!" as the laser fires, prompting the crew to leap in all directions to avoid the attack. The blast impacts the ground, sending debris flying and forcing them into a defensive position.

Recognizing the growing danger, Luffy quickly makes a decision. "We have to split up and run!" he orders, looking around at his crew. "We'll meet back here in three days!"

Sanji immediately moved toward Nami, his eyes full of hearts. "Come on, Nami-swan! Let's get out of here!" he said.

Franky joined their group, shaking his head. "That's not the time, Sanji."

Meanwhile, Usopp rushed over to Zoro, who was still struggling with his injuries, with Brook following closely behind. "Hang in there, Zoro!" Usopp encouraged, supporting him as they began to move.

Luffy takes the lead with Robin, Itachi, and Chopper. "Stay close!" he calls out as they dart in the opposite direction, the groups splitting up to avoid being caught together.

As they scatter, Usopp tries to cover their escape, firing a Hissatsu Kemuri Boshi to create a smokescreen. The thick smoke spreads, momentarily obscuring the view of Sentomaru and PX-1. However, PX-1 quickly adapts, aiming its laser and firing it at a nearby bridge. The explosion destroys the bridge in a fiery blast, blocking the escape route for Sanji's group.

Before they can change course, PX-1 appears right in front of them, its red eyes glowing ominously. "Damn it, this thing is fast!" Sanji exclaims, preparing for another fight.

Meanwhile, Sentomaru charges at Luffy's group, moving with surprising speed. Luffy decides to engage, shouting, "Gomu Gomu no Gatling!" as he unleashes a flurry of punches towards Sentomaru. However, Sentomaru effortlessly deflects each punch with his palms, using his formidable Haki. He counters with a powerful strike, sending Luffy flying back in shock.

Luffy crashes into the ground but quickly recovers, confusion etched on his face. "How did you do that?" he demands, clearly not expecting his attack to be so easily countered.

Sentomaru smirks, "I'm not a Devil Fruit user. My strength comes from something far more powerful." He then charges forward again, delivering another blow that sends Luffy crashing into a nearby tree. The impact is severe, and Luffy actually feels the pain coursing through his body, realizing that Sentomaru is not to be underestimated.

Itachi stood firmly in front of Sentomaru, his Eternal Mangekyo Sharingan glowing intensely. "So, you want to fight me?" he said calmly.

Sentomaru responded with a nod, and Itachi called out, "Luffy, everyone move ahead!"

Luffy nodded, urging the crew to move on. Robin looked at Itachi with concern, saying, "Please be safe, Itachi. You have to come back."

Itachi gave her a reassuring nod before facing Sentomaru, who charged at him with his axe. They engaged in a fierce hand-to-hand combat. Itachi unleashed his Fireball Jutsu, but Sentomaru dodged it and swung his axe, managing to land a hit on Itachi. Robin's eyes widened in shock as Luffy shouted, "Itachi!"

But Itachi swiftly transformed into crows, evading the attack. He then summoned his Susanoo's skeletal hand and delivered a powerful punch to Sentomaru, causing a massive impact and sending him crashing back.

Before the fight can continue, a loud explosion erupts nearby, shaking the ground beneath them. Luffy looks up, noticing smoke rising in the direction where Zoro's group had gone. "That came from Zoro's direction!" he exclaims, his concern growing.

Robin, trying keeping her composure, nods. "We need to hurry. They might be in trouble."

Chopper agrees, his face full of worry. "Let's go, Luffy! We can't leave them behind!"

Luffy, determination returning to his eyes, nods sharply. "Right. Let's go!" The three quickly set off towards the source of the explosion, their resolve unwavering despite the mounting dangers around them.

The situation for Zoro's group takes a drastic turn for the worse. Just as they are desperately attempting to regroup, Kizaru makes his presence known, his figure illuminated by a soft, almost blinding glow. The Admiral's calm demeanor is terrifying, especially as he casually reveals the destructive nature of his abilities.

Zoro, already heavily wounded from previous battles, tries to stand his ground but is quickly overwhelmed by Kizaru's speed and power. The light from Kizaru's attack hits him directly, sending him crashing to the ground. Brook and Usopp, seeing their friend in grave danger, immediately rush to his aid. They try everything they can—firing projectiles, wielding weapons—but their efforts are futile. Kizaru, in his light form, simply phases through their attacks, rendering them useless.

With a cold smile, Kizaru explains, "I ate the Pika Pika no Mi. I am a light man—your attacks have no effect on me." As he prepares to deliver the finishing blow to the immobile Zoro, his leg transforms into a beam of light, aimed directly at Zoro's heart.

But just before Kizaru can strike, a sudden force intervenes, kicking Kizaru's leg away with enough strength to divert the beam into the sky. The light dissipates harmlessly, and Kizaru, surprised, turns to see his attacker. Standing before him is Rayleigh, the "Dark King," his presence commanding and his expression serious.

"Kizaru," Rayleigh greets him with a calm but stern tone. "These young ones are not ready to be pruned just yet. Their era is only beginning." Kizaru grins, seemingly amused by Rayleigh's words, but there's a hint of caution in his eyes now.

Meanwhile, Luffy, seeing how dire the situation is, shouts to his crew, "We can't fight them! Run, everyone! Just run!" The Straw Hats heed Luffy's command, each of them knowing that their best chance of survival is to regroup and escape.

Luffy watched Itachi with growing concern, noticing how worn out he looked. He shouted, "Itachi, no need to fight! Just run!"

Hearing Luffy's command, Itachi responded, "I guess I have to follow his order." However, Sentomaru wasn't about to let him escape. "As if I will let you," he snarled, preparing to attack.

But Itachi's eyes locked onto Sentomaru's, and he activated Tsukuyomi. Sentomaru found himself on the execution stand, surrounded by multiple illusions of Itachi. "You are trapped in my genjutsu for 24 hours," Itachi said, his voice echoing menacingly.

Sentomaru, disoriented, sneered, "So it's just illusions. I don't fear them." But before he could react, Itachi stabbed him, and Sentomaru felt the pain as if it were real. "Don't underestimate this illusion," Itachi warned. "It might kill you."

Despite Sentomaru's bravado, he began to scream in horror as Itachi continued to manipulate the genjutsu, making him experience intense pain and fear.

Seizing the opportunity, Itachi broke free from the genjutsu and sprinted toward Luffy.

Franky activates Coup de Vent, propelling himself, Nami, and Sanji far away from the immediate danger posed by PX-1. But Kizaru, moving at the speed of light, suddenly reappears in front of Zoro, preparing to strike again. Rayleigh, however, is quick to intervene once more, this time managing to nick Kizaru's cheek with his sword, causing the Admiral to flinch slightly.

The Pacifista turns its attention back to Zoro, and with its powerful laser charging up, Sanji and Brook launch a desperate counterattack. Sanji lands a powerful kick, while Brook uses his swordsmanship to strike the Pacifista. However, their combined efforts only manage to stagger the machine briefly before they are knocked aside with powerful blows.

Rayleigh and Kizaru continue their intense sword fight, with Kizaru wielding a light sword that clashes against Rayleigh's blade, creating sparks of light and dark energy.

During the chaos, PX-1 targets Usopp, who is struggling to carry the injured Zoro. As the Pacifista's attack lands, Usopp is forced to drop Zoro. Chopper, witnessing this, transforms into Monster Point, roaring as he charges toward PX-1, but his immense strength is only enough to delay the Pacifista momentarily.

Itachi saw this and said," Chopper…."

Suddenly, a new presence makes itself known. The real Bartholomew Kuma appears, his towering figure imposing even amidst the chaos. He approaches Zoro with a calm expression, asking, "If you were to go on a trip, where would you like to go?" Before anyone can react, Kuma's paw touches Zoro, and in an instant, Zoro vanishes into thin air.

The Straw Hats are left in utter shock. "Zoro! Where did he go?!" Luffy demands, his voice filled with panic and confusion. Itachi, watching the scene unfold, "I think someone is touched by Kuma's paw, they fly somewhere."

Luffy looked at Itachi, noticing his exhaustion. "You defeated him?" he asked.

Itachi, now worn out, nodded. "I think he will be unconscious for a while," he replied.

Luffy sighed in relief. "That's good," he said.

Robin, observing Itachi's condition, added, "Let's get moving."

Sanji and Usopp frantically question Kuma's actions, their fear and concern for Zoro mounting. But before they can act, PX-1 charges a beam to attack them from behind. Kuma, with speed that surprises everyone, warps in front of PX-1 and touches it, making the Pacifista disappear as well.

"What…?!" Itachi exclaims, equally shocked by Kuma's interference. The Straw Hats are bewildered, unable to comprehend the sudden change in events. Itachi thought," Why would he do that?"

Luffy, sensing the urgency and the threat growing around them, yells, "Everyone, run! Don't stop! Just keep running!" The remaining Straw Hats scramble to escape, their hearts heavy with the fear of losing more of their crew.

Kuma, however, continues his advance towards the injured trio—Sanji, Usopp, and Brook. Brook steps forward, determined to protect his crewmates. "I won't let you take them!" he declares, his skeletal body shaking but resolute. Kuma, with a mere touch, makes Brook disappear, adding to the Straw Hats' confusion and despair.

Sanji quickly regains his composure and charges at Kuma with a fierce kick. "You won't get away with this!" he shouts, but Kuma swats him aside effortlessly, sending him crashing into the ground. Usopp, seeing Sanji down, tries to act fast, pulling out a fire star. "Take this!" he yells, but before he can even launch it, he vanishes, his cry of surprise cut short.

Luffy's heart sinks. "No... Usopp!" His voice is shaky, his morale crumbling as he watches four of his crew members disappear before his very eyes. Rayleigh, still locked in a fierce battle with Kizaru, is too busy to help, but he keeps an eye on the unfolding chaos.

Itachi, watching as each of the Straw Hats began to disappear one by one, urgently called out, "Luffy, run!"

Kuma walks past Rayleigh, leaning in to whisper something. Rayleigh's eyes narrow, and he quickly shoots back, "What are you playing at, Kuma?" Kizaru, intrigued, asks the same, but Kuma only dismisses him with a cold, indifferent look.

Desperation grips Luffy as he enters Gear 2, his body steaming with energy. "Kuma! Stop this!" he shouts ignoring Itachi, but Kuma pays him no mind. Instead, the Warlord turns his attention to Franky and Nami. Franky, not one to back down, launches his "Strong Right," his metal fist flying straight into Kuma's face. The impact is loud, but Kuma doesn't even flinch.

Itachi glanced at Chopper, who was in a berserk state. Using his genjutsu, he put Chopper to sleep, and the small reindeer reverted to his normal size. Itachi then carefully picked up Chopper and handed him to Robin. "Take him," he instructed.

Robin nodded, taking Chopper and cradling him gently.

Itachi, now fueled by anger, quickly created three shadow clones. "Receive them!" he ordered. The clones nodded in acknowledgment and rushed into the fray. He turned to Robin and said, "You should run."

"No…" she started to protest, but Itachi's intense gaze made her hesitate.

"I said run," Itachi insisted firmly.

Robin, looking into Itachi's eyes, finally nodded and began to run.

Luffy, anger boiling, lunges at Kuma with a powerful punch, his Gear 2 speed giving him an edge. But Kuma catches his fist effortlessly, tossing Luffy aside like he weighs nothing. "Damn it!" Luffy groans, scrambling to his feet.

But Kuma is relentless. He raises his paw again toward Franky, and a clone steps forward. Kuma punches the clone, which disappears in a puff of smoke with a single touch. With the same touch, Franky vanishes as well.

"No! Franky!" Luffy yells, panic flooding his voice. Nami, standing nearby, calls out desperately, "Luffy, help!" As the clone throws kunai with fire engraved on them, he dodges the attack and uses Amaterasu, but it also fails. Luffy tries to move to rescue her, but before he can reach Nami, she vanishes too, leaving Luffy horrified and helpless.

"Stop this!" Luffy screams, charging again, but Kuma warps away, appearing next to Robin and Monster Chopper. In an instant, they vanish as well, leaving Luffy alone and shattered. "No... Not them too!" His voice is a broken whisper.

With his entire crew gone, Luffy collapses to his knees, his strength fading. Tears stream down his face as he berates himself. "I couldn't save them... not a single one..." His voice is filled with despair and guilt, his body trembling with exhaustion and grief.

Itachi stepped forward and shouted, "Luffy, you have me here. We'll find them."

Luffy, looking up at Itachi, nodded and stood beside him. Itachi, now extremely drained and low on chakra, struggled to stay upright.

Kuma appeared before them, his expression unreadable. He raised his paw, and both Itachi and Luffy, too drained to move, readied themselves for one last stand. Itachi threw kunai and launched a fierce attack, while Luffy, summoning the last of his strength, used his Gum-Gum Bazooka. Kuma dodged their attacks effortlessly.

Desperate, Itachi activated his Susanoo, enveloping Luffy in its protective shell. Despite the immense power of the Susanoo, Itachi, already worn out, struggled to sustain it. The Susanoo attacked Kuma with powerful blows, but Kuma, with his unreadable expression, blocked each strike.

Kizaru, arriving on the scene, attacked with a powerful kick, causing the Susanoo to stagger. Rayleigh stepped in, confronting Kizaru. "I'm still fighting," he declared, buying Itachi and Luffy some time.

Itachi, seeing Rayleigh's intervention, used his sword against Kuma. Kuma effortlessly repelled the attack with his palms. Itachi's eyes widened in pain as he realized the severity of their situation. He turned to Luffy, saying, "I can't use Susanoo any longer."

Luffy, determined, nodded and prepared to use Gear Second again. He launched a series of powerful Gum-Gum Pistols, but to his dismay, Kuma blocked every attack with ease. Exhausted and drained, Luffy could barely move, and Itachi, having deactivated his Susanoo, collapsed to his knees, panting heavily.

"My eyes are burning," Itachi groaned, his condition worsening. Kuma approached the weakened Itachi and Luffy, "You will not see your friends again," Kuma said softly. He continued, "Let there be one friend with you."

With a final touch, Luffy and Itachi disappeared, leaving nothing behind.

A caption appears: "On this day, in Grove 12 of the Sabaody Archipelago, the Straw Hats were completely and utterly defeated."