"Mugiwara, I must admit that you make me cold. " Loke said.
" Can you tell me why are you running with bare legs? " Sanji continued.
" Hum ? I don't feel the cold. " Luffy asserted.
" Normal ! An idiot cannot be cold, it is well known. " Raynare explained.
" Uh ? " Luffy wondered, tilting his head to the side. " Why ? "
" Forget it, moron. "
" More importantly, it is better if one of us stays behind Luffy while the other two stand in front of him ! I don't know if we are going to be attacked or not in this forest, but it is essential to establish a formation in order to minimize the chances of Lucy being injured. " Loke cried.
" Shut-up, stupid lion. " Insulted Sanji. " Don't act like you're the leader of the gang! What is needed is to hurry up to this mountain! The faster we go, the lower the risk that Lucy-chan's health will deteriorate. "
" Fool! Training must be established to protect her. "
" No, we must go for her. "
" SHUT UP ! " Roared Raynare. " We do both ! Luffy, in the middle ! Loke, behind ! Me and Sanji, in front ! Execution. "
" Yes. "
But as they settled into place, Sanji jumped up to avoid a small rabbit that pretended to bite his leg.
" What is that ? "
" Surely one of the Lapahns Dalton told us about. " Raynare remarked. " For monstrous predators, I thought them bigger. "
" Wow, polar bears. " Luffy cried.
" Hum ? "
Stopping at that moment, the quartet faced a whole group of giant rabbits, whose bodies indeed resembled those of a bear.
" That … ? What is this stuff ? "
" The Lapahns ! And these are adults. "
Then uttering a roar, one of the rabbits finally leapt into the air and pretended to hit Sanji. Dodging in time, the man then attempted to retaliate. However, not used to fighting in the snow, these movements were slower, which allowed the animal to dodge it without problem.
" Damn it snow. "
Suddenly flying away, Raynare was no longer bothered by the handicap and began to aim at the animals.
" Get out of the way ! "
However, seeing the spears, the lapahns leapt to the sides, in order to dodge them. Then, running between the trees, they began to surround the small band.
" Grrr ! How do these monsters move so freely ? " Wanted to know Sanji.
" Their bodies must have an impressive layer of fat that prevents the cold from slowing them down. " Understood Loke. " And they must also have legs with huge muscles capable of running them through this layer of snow. "
" Someone can explain to me why there are so many ? " Wanted to know Raynare.
" Hey, did you notice ? " Luffy suddenly cried. " These polar bears have a bunny face. "
" These are rabbits, asshole. "
Then suddenly Sanji, Raynare and Loke moved around Luffy, playing bodyguards.
" That … ? " The pirate wondered.
" Luffy, whatever happens don't attack them. " Sanji forbids him.
" Don't get hit either. " Raynare adds.
" And above all, don't make abrupt gestures. " Finished Loke.
" Why ? "
" Fool, have you forgotten what Nami told you ? If you get hit just once, the shock will reverberate back to Lucy. "
" And because of her condition, it could kill her. "
" So, just run away and run straight. "
" We take care of the rest. " Then assured the trio.
It was then that the Lapahns began to run in their direction, while directing their huge paws towards them.
" GO. " Sanji shouted. " MOUTON SHOT ! "
" DIVINE TORNADO ! "
" REGULUS IMPACT ! "
Getting hit the first rabbits were thrown sideways, creating a huge gap.
" Luffy! Now ! "
" Aye, thank you. "
Seeing the captain flee, the other animals began to surround him. However, barely one of them opened its jaws to bite him, when a foot destroyed its side.
" FLANC SHOOT ! "
Thrown at the feet of its friends, the Lapahn lost consciousness. Despite this, Sanji began to breathe with difficulty.
" Damn it, not only does this snow prevent me from hitting with force but, in addition, it is much more exhausting to move around than on normal ground. "
And to top it off, the animals in front of them were rather unhappy to see their comrades being beaten like this. Growling again, they finally charged a second time.
" They come back. " Luffy cried.
" Run in the woods, we have you covered. "
But barely had Luffy had time to reach the first trees that a Lapahn positioned itself in front of him and swung its paw towards his face. Dodging it, Luffy closed his fist, before screaming.
" GUM GUM… "
However, finding himself knocked unconscious, the animal fell to the ground, while Luffy's friends had just knocked it out.
" LUFFY. " Roared his comrades. " What did we tell you, moron? "
" But I … "
" We take care of them ! Just run ! "
However, a dozen others rabbits appeared around them, blocking their way.
" Shit ! What shall we do now ? "
" These damn rabbits! " Sanji growled, just as the amals roared before they ran.
However, a sandstorm hit one of the animals, throwing it away.
" What … ? "
Being ripped open by an ax, another fell to the ground, while other lapahns were hit by arrows.
" What … ? " Raynare wondered.
" Guys … ? " Loke whispered.
" Need a hand ? " Asked Capricorn.
Standing in front of the quartet, the goat was in the company of Taurus, Sagitarius and Scorpio. Facing the rabbits, the spirits simply moved into a fighting stance, allowing Luffy and the others to leave.
" Go ahead, we are holding them back. "
" My tail and I are going to clean up here. "
" Soldier, we are counting on you to take care of Lucy. "
" Go ahead! There will be no problem, moo. "
" Lucy's spirits ? " Luffy wondered.
" How is it that there are so many? " Raynare wondered.
" Lucy is in danger. " Loke asserted. " And all her spirits feel it ! None of us want to see her die. "
Looking up, he cried out.
'' Guys, I'm counting on you ! Fight until we save Lucy ! "
" AYE. " Cried the four spirits, before rushing towards the rabbits.
" Let's go. " Sanji ordered.
" Thanks guys. " Cried Luffy. " We will save Lucy, we swear. "
But hardly did he turn around when another rabbit jumped on him.
" What … ? "
Having the claws shattered into pieces, the animal was surprised to feel its hairs falling to the ground, while a man had just cut them with scissors.
" What do you think you are doing, -ebi ? " Cancer asked it.
Wanting to attack the spirit, another rabbit was stopped by a wall of pink wool, which engulfed it.
" Sorry. " Apologized Aries.
" Aries ? Cancer ? "
" Run, Loke -ebi. "
" We… we will fight. " Aries assured.
Glancing behind him, Luffy watched as the six Spirits began to fight against the entire group of rabbits. No one could know who was going to win. But, in any case, Lucy's spirits were going to give them a big head start.
" They are ready to sacrifice themselves for her. " The captain understood.
" Lucy's life is more important than anything. " Loke assured. " Lucy will always be there to help us ! And we too ! It is not a question of being under her orders! If we do, it's because she is our friend ! That's who Lucy is, for all of us. "
Hearing it, Raynare looked at Lucy's body, before starting to feel guilty. Was she responsible for the degradation of the friendship between Lucy and Virgo?
Starting to circle around, Nami couldn't help but worry.
" It's been two hours since they left ! We don't even know if they have already been able to reach the castle ! Hell, why did this old lady decide to stay up there? "
" It's your crew who is very strange. " Dalton affirmed. " Sail the Grand Line with only ten men and without a doctor ? This is madness ! However, that's not the strangest thing about you. "
" Hum ? What is that ? "
" Your friendship ! I know few people who would take the risk of climbing a mountain to save their friend ! You are truly unique. "
" Dalton-san ! " A woman suddenly cried, walking.
" Yes, who does he have ? "
'' You're looking for Dr. Kureha, aren't you ? "
" Yes, why ? "
" From what I could hear, people have just seen her come down from the mountain and it is in Cocoaweed, the neighboring village. "
" What ? " The pirates wondered.
" Hell, they missed her. " Cried Johnny.
" What are we going to do now? " Yosaku asked. " Impossible to prevent them. "
" No, the person to prevent is the doctor. " Nami asserted. " Only she is able to return to her castle quickly ! We must find her. "
Thinking back, she mumbled.
" Nevertheless, if Luffy and the others have already managed to reach the castle, maybe they will have the bad idea to go back down ! Alright, in that case it's better to split into two groups ! One will go to Cocoaweed to find the doctor, while the other will stay here in case Luffy returns. "
" I will get my sled and I will guide you. " Dalton said, running to a small shed.
" I would go with you. " Usopp suggested.
" Me too. " Vivi decided.
" Very good, prepare yourself in this case. "
Seeing the trio leave, the others then saw them leave the village, using a sled. Despite this, Johnny knocked in the snow, while grumbling.
" What bad luck ! Why does this have to happen to us ? "
Seeing the man get angry, Menma approached Nami, before asking her.
" Nami…? Lucy… will she be able to see the doctor ? "
Seeing the crestfallen face of the child, the redhead found herself obliged to smile at her as best she could before ensuring.
" Yes, don't worry ! It is a promise ! "
" You don't have to worry about them. " Yosaku assured her. " They are adults! And superhumans, too ! They can manage! "
" I'm worried. " Menma asserted.
" You don't take the head. " The man advised her. " Instead of worrying, why don't you have fun with this snow ? "
" No, I… I don't want . "
Looking at her then, Nami caught her shivering. Despite trying to hide it, Menma was starting to freeze to death.
" Menma, go to Dalton. "
" Why ? "
" You are cold ! Don't tell me otherwise ! Go warm up ! "
'' But ... Luffy and the others? "
" We will call you. " Nami promised her. " Come on, go warm up. "
Eventually complying, Menma turned and made as if to enter the house. However, as soon as she opened the door she heard Johnny cry out.
"By the way, isn't this island perfect for Menma ?"
" Hum ? What do you mean ? "
'' If I remember correctly, we were to keep Menma with you until we could find an island where she could live happily ! Now that this Wapol has left this island, we can let Menma live there, right ? "
Freezing, the child listened to them without saying anything. She was unable to say anything. Finally, she heard Nami say.
" It's not a bad idea ! It's even the perfect time to think about it ! Knowing that the next time we wait for an island, it will be to fight Crocodile ! I refuse that Menma is involved ! When Luffy and the others get back, we'll have to tell them about it. "
Then looking at the village to see the snow as well as people living there pleasantly, Nami nodded, before turning around.
'' What do you think, Menma ? Wouldn't you like…? "
She suddenly fell silent, noticing something strange. The door to Dalton's house was wide open. Still, she saw small footprints in the snow, moving in the opposite direction.
" Menma? "
" You… you will pay me. "
Lying on the ground, and having his body split into pieces again, Mr 5 had his head covered with bumps, while Bruno and Gin were in front of him. Swallowing, meanwhile, Neni looked at his former superior, before staring at the small enemy boats that were now in pieces. He hadn't done much, therefore, to say that his two companions had managed to beat, on their own, a small army.
"These guys are not human. "
" I beat you the first time. " Gin remarked.
" I beat you the second time. " Bruno continued.
'' What did you think you were doing, all alone, against the two of us? "
" Shut up ! " Roared Mr 5. " After these failures, I have to bring your heads back to Mr 0 if I don't want to die. "
" Too bad for you. " Gin cried, shrugging his shoulders. " You are not powerful enough for us. "
Still, a smile appeared on the man's face, before he laughed.
" Who is it having fun ? Has your defeat made you mad ? "
" Currently, it is not only Baroque Works who want you dead. " Announced Mr 5 to him. " There is also the king of this country, Wapol. "
" Wapol ? " Bruno wondered. " Isn't that the other guy we fought the other day ? "
" Mugiwara beat him in two seconds. " Neni remarked. " He doesn't look me more dangerous than Mr 3. "
" It's not him, the most dangerous ! No, it's his brother and his devastating power! He will kill each of your friends and then come here to take you out afterwards ! You will not escape it ! Each of you will die and I will be there to witness it ! HAHAHA… "
A tonfa hit his head, knocking him out.
" A loser must know how to be silent with dignity. " Gin asserted, before grabbing the pieces of the man and shipping them out of the Merry.
" What do we do now? " Wanted to know Neni. " He just said that there is a mighty fighter among the enemy ranks ! Should we join Princess Wednesday and the others ? "
" No. " Bruno retorted, as he began to inspect the damage the boat had suffered. " Our role is to keep the boat and that's what we're going to do. "
" But ... But if the others have to fight, they might need help. "
" Perhaps ! But if we leave the ship and other enemies come here, they can burn the ship without difficulty. "
Then sitting down, he said.
" Monitoring a boat is not a thankless task ! On the contrary ! Ensuring the preservation of our ship is essential ! We must never forget this in an unknown land. "
Looking around, Gin asked.
" Zoro has not returned ! He must have got lost on the way ! However, can someone tell me where is the duck ? "
" Duck ? "
" QUUUUUUAAAAA. " Carue yelled, as it figure could be seen frozen, in the water.
" Ehhhhhhhhh? " The trio wondered.
Shivering, Menma tried to warm herself up, rubbing her arms. Nonetheless, feeling an icy wind strike the skin of her face, the poor child chattered her teeth, even though she felt as if she could no longer smell her nose.
Since her escape, Menma had left Big Horn village and had walked through the forest, aimlessly. All she knew was that she was sad. Sad to hear Nami and the others talk about leaving her here.
Of course, she knew full well that that moment would come at one point or another. To tell the truth, she wasn't sure she wanted to continue this pseudo-pirate life. Since arriving in this world, she had enjoyed every moment spent with Luffy and the others. However, she had noticed his uselessness in Little Garden. She was incapable of being of any use during a fight. So why would Nami and the others bother taking him with them?
Walking like this, Menma cursed her weakness. Then, feeling tired and having his legs numb, the child ended up falling against a tree. Staying there for a few minutes, Menma didn't want to move anymore. Her body seemed to get heavier and heavier as her vision started to blur. She wanted to sleep.
As a result, gradually starting to close her eyes, Menma ends up letting the cold take hold of her.
" Hey, Menma! MENMA! "
" Hum? " The young girl wondered, as she opened her eyes.
Surprised, she saw only a black expanse around her.
" That … ? " She wondered, looking around. " Where am I ? "
At that moment, turning around, she was surprised to see five children behind her.
" Who are you ? "
" Hey, Menma. " Cried a boy, with very short hair. " I forbid you to give up. "
" What ? "
" You are forbidden to die. " Asserted a girl with glasses.
" We are with you, no matter what. " A boy continued with a cap on his head.
" We don't care that you don't remember us. " Said a girl with dark hair.
" Because we consider you as our friend. " Finished a boy with black hair.
" Who ... Who are you? " Menma repeated, feeling like she had seen these children somewhere.
At that moment, each of the children disappeared and Menma found herself surrounded by five adults.
" Poppo! Your friend ! "
" Anaru! Your friend ! "
" Yukiatsu! Your friend ! "
" Tsuruko! Your friend ! "
" Jintan! The man who loves you ! "
" What ? " Menma wondered, seeing them smile at her.
" Menma, we found you. "
Suddenly opening her eyes, Menma took a deep breath. The still heavy body, the child hastened to stand up, while she understood that she had just escaped death. She was not to stay still, otherwise the cold would kill her.
However, she had no idea who all these people she had dreamed of were. Yet their voices had been familiar to him.
" Oi, little children. "
Looking up, Menma saw a sleigh directly in front of her, driven by a reindeer. Getting out of the transportation, an old woman walked up to her, removing her sunglasses.
" Can I know what a kid like you is doing here ? "
" Who ... Who are you? "
" Hum? You want to know the secret of my youth, right ? "
" Are you deaf, obaa-san? "
Immediately the poor child felt the old lady squeeze her skull with her fingers, while questioning her.
" Who do you call a grandmother ? I'm only one hundred and thirty-nine. "
" Sorry ! Sorry ! Sorry ! "
Finally, letting go of Menma the old lady hurriedly examining her arms and legs, while asserting.
" You have a lot of luck ! As a general rule, it's common for kids like you to get frostbite when they get outside and get lost in the forest. "
" Frosbite ? "
" It's an infection. " Affirmed the old lady, smiling grimly. " If the frostbite is too severe, the entire limb must be cut ! Oh, by the way, I think I'll have to amputate your leg. "
" What ? " The child scared, while seeing her roll up her pants. " No no ! Not cut my leg, please ! "
However, a punch hit her skull, as the old lady returned to her sleigh.
" Idiot ! You have nothing ! However, be aware that frostbite can indeed force you to lose the use of an arm or a leg ! So, do me the pleasure of never going outside when there is a storm again ! Oh, by the way, my name is Kureha. "
Listening to her silently, Menma suddenly realized that she knew the name. Finally, she cried out.
" Are you the witch? "
Immediately, the old lady's fingers squeezed her skull again, lifting her off the ground.
" Hey, you ! You look me very rude ! I really want to go see your parents to instill respect in you. "
Nevertheless, not trying to struggle, the child cried out.
" Help Lucy Onee-san! Pity. "
" Hum ? " Kureha wondered, letting go. " Lucy ? "
" Luffy and the others are off to your castle so you can heal Lucy. " Menma taught her. " They are waiting for you there. "
" Wait a second ! What are you telling me ? "
" Lucy is very sick. " Menma insisted. " She has a fever, and Bruno said maybe it was from some poison! And Nami said her temperature was up to 42 degrees. "
" How many ? " Kureha wondered.
Turning to the mountains, she grumbled.
'' And your idiot friends haven't found anything better to do than go outside to climb this mountain ? "
Seizing Menma, Kureha then ran to her sleigh and ordered.
" Chopper ! We're going home. "
Nodding, the reindeer immediately ran and headed straight for the highest mountain. However, he ran so fast that he saw a figure at the last moment. Coming out of the forest, a man was run over by the sleigh and fell to the ground.
" Sorry, it's an emergency. " Kureha asserted. " If I have time, I will come back to treat you. "
" Zoro ? " Menma wondered, having had the impression of recognizing the man who appeared to be shirtless.
Looking behind her, Raynare smiles before asserting.
" Great ! Those stupid rabbits have stopped following us. "
'' No matter what, Lucy-chan's magical power can be really useful. " Sanji remarked. " Her spirits can become a real army on their own. "
" Never underestimate the strength of zodiac spirits. " Loke cried, running ahead.
However, stopping then, he was surprised to see more lapahns in front of them.
" What … ? "
" There are others ? " Luffy wondered.
" Grrr! But how many rabbits does this island have ? " Sanji growled.
Getting ready to fight them, the quartet was somewhat surprised to see the rabbits stand still. They just stared at them.
" Hum ? " Luffy wondered. " They don't want to attack us anymore? "
" It's strange. " Loke remarked. " Two minutes ago, nothing seemed to stop them from wanting to kill us. "
" Not matter. " Raynare affirmed, while turning to the forest. " Let's go around the area and avoid them. "
Getting ready to follow her, the three men stopped when they saw the rabbits start to pounce. Jumping in place, they suddenly dropped to the ground, before resuming to leap.
" What are they doing? "
Just watching them do it, Sanji looked skeptical. Then, the more seconds passed, the more his eyes opened. Finally loosening his teeth enough, he dropped his cigarette without realizing it. Then he took a step back.
" They will do it ! These damn rabbits will do it. "
Feeling the ground shake beneath his feet, Loke also gave a bad feeling.
" They will create one. "
" A what ? " Luffy asked.
" LUFFY ! " Shouted the blond. " Entrust Lucy right away to Raynare. "
" What ? " The duo wondered.
" These goofy rabbits are creating an avalanche. "
" An avalanche ? "
Suddenly, a huge layer of snow fell off the slope, while a deafening noise began to be heard. Knowing what was happening, the lapahns immediately fled, letting the blanket of snow turn into a gigantic avalanche. Seeing it, the pirates quickly fled. But as Luffy started to run, he felt a pair of hands grip Lucy.
" Give her to me. "
Obeying, Luffy hurried to remove the knots that tied Lucy to his body and ended up letting Raynare take her into the air. Feeling lighter, Luffy accelerated but was still much slower than the avalanche.
" Sanji ! What are we doing ? "
" Run ! We can't do anything else anyway. "
" If we survive, I promise to kill these rabbits. " Said Loke.
" LUFFY. " Raynare suddenly shouted, flying above them. " There is a ledge on your right. "
" Hum ? " Sanji said looking in the direction indicated.
Seeing indeed, a fairly high rock, the cook ran towards the ore, while shouting.
" You have to go up ! We will be safe there. "
Hearing this, Luffy stretched out his arms and managed to grab hold of the top of the rock. Then letting himself fly at full speed, he bumped into Sanji and Loke and the trio then crashed into the rock wall.
" Motherfucker. " The two men roared, before Luffy pulled them to the top.
No sooner had they gotten to safety than the avalanche passed all around them, sweeping away everything in its path. Seeing trees and small rocks thus being destroyed, Raynare let herself down a little, while noticing.
" You were very lucky. "
" We are saved. " Luffy rejoices.
Unfortunately, seeming to gain in intensity, the avalanche heaved more and more, so much so that its size surpassed the perch of the pirates.
" And shit! We are not high enough. " Sanji remarked.
" MENMA! " Nami shouted. " Oh hey, MENMA ! "
Wandering around Bighorn, the redhead was in vain looking for the child who was nowhere to be found.
" Where did she go ? "
" Sister-Nami. " Cried Johnny. " I didn't find her anywhere in the village. "
" Neither do I . " Yosaku added. " She had to leave the village ! But why would she do that? "
" That stupid kid. " Nami growled. " When I find her, I'll give her the spank of her life. "
" DALTON ! " Someone suddenly shouted.
" Hum ? " The trio wondered when they saw a man running into the middle of the village.
" Where is Dalton? " Wanted to know the man. " Where is he ? "
" What's going on ? "
" He is back. " The man shouted, falling to his knees.
" Who ? "
" Don't tell me that ... "
" Yes, Wapol is back. "
" HAHAHA. " Suddenly a loud voice laughed. " How good it is to be back home. "
Immediately hiding behind a house, the trio spotted Wapol on the back of a white hippopotamus, eating a piece of wall. Swallowing it, he finally screamed.
" DELICIOUS. "
Then taking a deep breath, he cried out.
" People of the Kingdom of Drum ! Today is a big day ! Your beloved king is back. "
" Is it Wapol ? " Nami recognized him.
" No doubt. " Said Yosaku. " And he came with all his guards. "
Suddenly, opening his mouth, Johnny finally screamed in fear. Placing their hands on his mouth, the other two roared.
" Shut up ! You will make us spot. "
" But look. " Johnny advised, while pointing at three people.
Inspecting the surroundings, Nami and Yosaku finally saw Mr. 3, Miss Goldenweek and Valentine.
" What is Baroque Works doing here ? "
" No idea but it is better that they do not find us. "
Meanwhile, hearing Wapol giggle stupidly while eating, Miss Valentine ends up muttering.
" What an idiot king. "
" Totally agree. " Mr 3 approved, while drinking a cup of tea. " But don't worry, whether or not he is loud doesn't change our plan ! We will use him to weaken Mugiwara and then capture him ! As far as this island is concerned, Mr 0 will decide it fate once we conquer Alabasta ! But I doubt that this Wapol will be very useful to him. "
Pretending to sleep on Robsom's back, Musshuru suddenly drops down in front of them.
" Very interesting. "
" That … ? " The trio wondered, taking a step back.
" Chut ! " The man advised them, while looking behind him to make sure his brother was not listening. " I have a proposal for you. "
" A proposal ? "
" I don't care to take power on this island ! What I want is to be part of your project! Yes, I want a position in the Baroque Works organization. "
" A position ? " Repeated Mr 3. " And why will we give you one ? "
Smiling Musshuru asserted.
" You know very well what are the extent of my power ! Besides, I'm not like my sluggish little brother! I know how to fight properly! I am convinced that I am a recruit of choice for your organization! I deserve to take a test, right ? "
" A test ? What test? "
" If I kill Mugiwara, I want my place in Baroque Works. "
Seeming thoughtful, Mr 3 said.
" Okay, we can always discuss it with Mr 0. "
'' But what about your brother ? " Miss Valentine asked.
" Him ? He can fend for himself ! I'm not him babysitter ! Until proven otherwise, he only came to me for the sole purpose of fighting Blackbeard if he ever decided to stay on this island ! Either way, it's of no use to me. "
" Kuromarimo. " Suddenly exclaimed Wapol. " Tell me why do I have all the rights here ? "
" It's simple. " Affirmed the man. " It's because you are the king, Wapol-sama. "
" That's right ! Your lives are mine, you hear ! And since I am the king, I can do whatever I want ! HAHAHAHA! "
" Wapol-sama! " Cried Chess suddenly, running towards him. " I have important news to share with you. "
" What's up ? "
" From what I could hear, Mugiwara and his crew left for the castle. "
" Mugiwara ? " Mr 3 repeated.
" Towards my castle ? Why this ? "
" From what we know, they are currently taking a sick woman there. "
" What is the connection ? "
" According to my information, Dr. Kureha took advantage of our absence to reside in Drum Castle ! That's why the pirates go there. "
" KUREHA? " Roared Wapol. " That old witch ? Is this a joke ? How far does she go to humiliate me ! Alright, if that's the way she's gonna be the first person I execute to celebrate my return to the island ! Let's go to the castle. "
" That sucks. " Yosaku remarked. " If they go to the castle, they risk going after Luffy and the others and injuring Sister-Lucy further. "
" It must ... We must stop them. " Johnny asserted, pulling out his sword.
" Fool. " Cried Nami. " Without Luffy and the others, we don't stand a chance at them. "
" But we are not going to let them go without doing anything. "
" WAPOL. " Suddenly roared a voice.
" Hum ? " The king wondered.
Smiling then, he recognized the face of an old acquaintance.
" Dalton ! It's been a while ! I'm surprised to see you alive on this island! What are you doing here ? "
" Eliminate yourself. " The man roared.
And before anyone could react, Dalton grabbed his huge ax and managed to disembowel Wapol.
" WAAAAAAAHHHHH. " Cried the king, falling backwards.
" Wapol-sama ! "
" Tsss, what an idiot. " Musshuru asserted, arms folded.
" It had to be wanted to get hurt like this. " Miss Valentine adds.
Rolling to the ground, Wapol cried out in pain, as blood dripped from his wound.
" AHHHHH ! To me ! Help ! I die ! "
" What we call the Isshi-20. " Chess ordered.
Immediately, a team of doctors began to surround Wapol and began to treat his wound. And in a few seconds, the king got to his feet.
" Whew! I thought I was going to die. "
" Dalton, you bastard. " Roared Kuromarimo. " How dare you go after Wapol-sama ? "
" I don't care whether he's a king or a vulgar pirate. " Retorted the man. " What matters is that I can protect my island from any threat. "
" Any threat ? " Wapol got angry. " Oi, have you forgotten who was the king of this island ? "
" What I have not forgotten is the fact that you exiled the doctors from the island and that you fled with the others! Because of your stupid actions, the island has been forced to face many sick people and deaths have been recorded! And that, I could never forgive you. "
" Tsss! You and your good conscience don't in any way deserve to become sovereign. " Affirmed Wapol. " Only a man who knows how to make himself respected can become a king. "
" None of us deserves to be king. " Retorted Dalton. " And even less to have the right to reside here ! Wapol, I'll spare you if you decide to leave this island. "
" It's Wapol-sama, ungrateful servant. " Roared the old king. " What do you think ? That I will listen to you without saying anything ? Of course, I will kill you and then take back the power. "
" In that case, I'll stop you, here and now. " Dalton roared, transforming into a huge bison.
" Devil's fruit ? " Musshuru wondered.
However, Dalton didn't even have time to show his power. No sooner had he taken a step than he felt himself immobilized. Looking down, he was surprised to see a layer of wax that had trapped his legs.
" What … ? What is that ? "
" Oops, would I have stopped your race? " Asked Mr 3, with a small smile.
" ICHIBAN KILO PRESS. "
And before Dalton could react, Miss Valentine crashed violently onto his back, destroying part of his skeleton. Roaring in pain, the buffalo-man fell to the ground, while the blonde began to hover above him.
" What? It's already over ? Hahahaha! What a weakling. "
" Oh, not bad at all. " Wapol remarked. " I didn't even have to do anything ! Baroque Works really seems to me to be a very promising organization. "
" What an idiot. " Said Kuromarimo, walking towards Dalton. " What did you think you were doing? You're no match for me and Chess. "
" And ... so what ? "
Surprising his enemies, Dalton managed to straighten himself up before getting to his feet. Bleeding all over, he let his blood fall to the ground, not caring about his health.
" No matter how strong you are ! I have sworn loyalty to this kingdom. "
" Dalton-san. " A villager frightened.
" Stop ! You are going to die. "
" This guy is completely crazy. " Yosaku asserted. " He has no chance of winning. "
For his part, seeing the man get up, Johnny squeezed his sword tighter, hearing the soldier scream.
" Compared to you, I would not run away from danger ! I don't have the right! Because if not, who will protect the people of this island ? "
" Kabayaro! " Insulted Musshuru, advancing towards him. " I think to hear my dumb father. "
Looking at him, Dalton suddenly widened his gaze, before recognizing the man.
" Musshuru ? "
" Happy to see me again ? "
Then glancing at the villagers all around him, the man put on a sadistic smile, while promising.
" At the slightest revolt, I promise to exterminate you all using my '' bomb ''. "
Immediately, several people started to recoil in fear.
'' It's… it's him ? "
" The man responsible for '' toxic death '' several years ago ? "
" One step, and you will all die. " Assured the man.
" Shit ! " Dalton growled.
" Dalton-san ! We come to help you. "
Turning their gaze, everyone could see a whole group of armed men running towards Bighorn.
" We are going to chase Wapol from this island. "
Seeing this, Musshuru directed his hand towards them, while asserting.
" A little training would do me good. "
" Hey, stop it. " Wapol ordered him. " No way you can use your powers by being so close to me ! Chess ! "
" All right away, Wapol-sama. " The man assured, taking his bow, before starting to aim at the crowd.
" No, stop. " Cried Dalton.
" Try it. " Chess chuckled, pretending to shoot three arrows.
" AHHHHHHHH! "
Startled, the archer heard a man running behind his back, while uttering a war cry. Turning around, he saw Johnny behind him, while having his sword raised in the air.
" That … ? "
In an instant, he felt the blade strike his back, causing him to cough up blood. Dropping his arrows, he knocked them to the ground, as did his bow.
" JOHNNY ? " Yosaku wondered.
" You ? " Dalton wondered.
" You are one of the mugiwaras. " Recognized him as Mr 3.
" Motherfucker. " Chess roared, as he stood up with difficulty. " Hey, Isshi-20! Come and treat me. "
Standing still, the doctors only looked at the king. He ends up simply nodding. Immediately the group of doctors began to heal the archer, while Yosaku froze, sword in hand, while the members of Baroque Works now faced him.
" Perfect ! Now that you're here, I'm sure you'll tell us where your captain is. "
" In your dreams . " Johnny roared. " I will not let you ! I refuse to see you kill villagers ! I may only be a pirate, the fact remains that I have kept my humanity compared to you. "
However, seeing a black fist rush towards his face, Johnny used his sword in time to defend himself.
" Who do you think you are ? " Kuromarimo asked him. " We are the advisers of Wapol-sama ! Don't underestimate us. "
Finally, he used more force, forcing Johnny to step back.
" Guys. " Cried Wapol. " Kill him. "
Immediately dozens of firearms were aimed at the swordsman, who could only stand still due to fear. The adrenaline he had felt to save the villagers was gone.
" Pull. "
" Johnny ! " Yosaku yelled, rushing over to him.
Suddenly, violent tremors were felt.
" Hum ? "
" What is that ? An earthquake ? "
At this moment, a huge layer of moving snow was seen approaching dangerously close to the village.
" An avalanche. "
" Faster, Chopper. " Shouted Kureha. " Hurry up ! "
Finding herself in the witch's sleigh, Menma sat impatiently staring at the forest around, waiting for them to reach the castle.
" We will reach the castle soon ? "
" What ? " Kureha wondered. " Don't talk nonsense ! Before I go there, I'll take you to Bighorn ! If all goes well, we have plenty of time to make this detour before your friends arrive in my castle! If they get there of course! No way to have you in my legs ! I am not a nanny. "
Suddenly the sleigh stopped.
" What's going on, Chopper ? "
" Something is happening? " Asserted the reindeer.
" He spoke ? " Menma wondered.
Suddenly the ground began to shake, as many birds left the trees around them.
" That … ? "
Hearing a deafening noise, Kureha understood what was going on.
" CHOPPER ! "
Resuming its course, the animal began to run towards a large cliff. Climbing on it, it took the sleigh with it. And no sooner had he taken shelter than the whole landscape around the cliff disappeared under several tons of snow.
" Phew, we were hot. " Kureha asserted.
However, feeling someone grab her sleeve, she caught sight of Menma glued to her, staring at the avalanche. Trembling with fear, she asked.
" Luffy… Lucy… Are they okay ? "
" Tsss! Take care of your own health, before that of your friends. " Retorted the doctor. " Think just two seconds! If we hadn't taken you with us, what do you think would have happened ? "
Immediately, the child swallowed in fear, while Kureha declared.
" No matter what you do, in Grand Line, death is omnipresent for someone who does not know the word "danger". "
Swallowing again, Menma looked at the avalanche again. And suddenly, among the trees, she thought she saw a head with green hair.
" Zoro ? " Menma wondered, before seeing the head disappear under the snow.
" WOUAAAAHHHH ! " Luffy shouted.
" I will kill those rabbits. " Sanji shouted.
Having been lifted by the avalanche, the two men as well as Loke had ended up landing on a tree trunk having been swept by the snow. However, despite being alive, each of them noticed that they were coming down the mountain.
For her part, Raynare continued to follow them, while ensuring that Lucy was safe. Then, suddenly, she saw other figures start to surround the tree where her friends were.
" Rabbits … ? "
"Surfing" on the snow thanks to other tree trunks, the lapahns were indeed continuing to pursue the men.
'' But they really want us to kill them, or what ? " Sanji roared.
" REGULUS IMPACT! " Loke shouted, knocking the snow close to him.
The shock created an explosion that destabilized the slide of the rabbits behind them. Seeing them fall into the avalanche, the spirit turned to the other animals, before roaring.
" Who is next? "
The only answer was the lapahns leaped towards them and tried to bite them. Wanting to attack them first, Luffy was eventually forced to avoid them, while his situation prevented him from finding a balance in order to reach out.
" It shakes too much for me to attack. "
" LUFFY ! WARNING ! " Sanji shouted, pointing a boulder in front of them.
Standing right in their path, the huge chunk of rock loomed menacingly in front of them. If they hit it, their tree trunk would shatter into pieces.
" Luffy, turns. "
" I can't. "
Finally, in an instant, the tree trunk crashed into the rock, as did those of the lapahsn who could not avoid it. Being thrown into the air, the trio could only scream in fear. However, managing to regain his senses in time, Sanji directed both feet towards the backs of his teammates and struck them with force and power.
" AHHHHH. " Luffy and Loke screamed, before landing on top of the rock, where the snow couldn't reach them.
" What … ? " The duo wondered.
Raising his thumb in their direction, Sanji cried out.
" Save Lucy. "
Falling, he ends up being swept away by the snow.
" SANJI! "
Suddenly descending, Raynare found herself on top of the cook. Encircling Lucy's waist with a arm, she reached out her second arm to grab hold of the cook.
" Grab my hand. "
However, before Sanji could do so, the body of a huge lapahn was thrown out of the avalanche. And unfortunately, he bumped hard against Raynare. Being thrown to the side, Raynare had the misfortune to release the pressure from her arm. Then, opening her eyes, she saw, in horror, Lucy's body fall into the avalanche.
" LUCCCCCYYYYY. " She cried.
Too late. In an instant, the blonde's unconscious body vanished into the snow.
" LUCCCCCYYYYYY. " The fallen angel cried again, pretending to dive into the snow.
However, anticipating her gesture, Luffy managed to stretch his arm out in time and grabbed one of her wings. Taken back, the fallen angel fell at the feet of Luffy and Loke, who saw in horror Lucy and Sanji disappear in the avalanche.
" LUCCCCYYY. " Loke cried, pretending to jump into the snow.
Suddenly, getting stronger, the avalanche behind them ended up covering the rock. Finding themselves in the snow, the trio managed to leave the avalanche in time, while Raynare flew away, taking the two men with her.
Finding itself in the path of the snow, the village of Bighorn was swept away.
" An avalanche ? " Nami frightened, before feeling the snow hit her.
Unable to avoid it, Johnny and Yosaku, Dalton and the villagers, as well as Wapol's soldiers and medics, were also hit by the avalanche.
Finally, seeing her coming towards them, Mr 3 created a large wax shell in time, allowing him and his minions to be protected. Seeing him do it, Wapol, Musshuru and his advisers rushed towards them, and took shelter just before the avalanche buried the wax protection.
A gigantic crash was then heard across the whole island, and even to Merry.
" That ? " Gin wondered, while he and Bruno were fishing Carue.
Seeing the avalanche then, they saw it descend until it finally stopped a few meters from the shore.
Watching, while still frozen, Neni saw the whole of Drum Island being covered with a thick layer of snow. Finally falling to his knees, he whispered.
" Guys ! "