The forest was filled with the rich scent of grass and trees, mixed with a trace of salt and coolness carried by the sea breeze.
Yet the deep tranquility was shattered by the sounds of battle. Ants marching across the ground broke formation and fled in panic, while startled birds scattered from the treetops.
Luffy froze for a moment. Recognizing the two people who had suddenly appeared, his eyes widened in surprise.
"—Huh?! Law, Kid, why are you here?!"
"Yeah, I heard a huge war was about to break out here, so of course I came to enjoy the show."
Looking at the trench scorched by the Electromagnetic Cannon, still glowing with searing flames all the way to the forest's edge, Kid wore a teasing expression. He slightly turned his head and glanced at Luffy past his red fur-trimmed coat.
"As for the reason, obviously it's for fame. You understand fame, right?"
"Well, I guess I'm here for roughly the same reason."
Law landed from the air with a faint smile, draped in a dark blue fur-trimmed coat and holding a long sword. He looked at Luffy.
"Long time no see, Straw Hat."
"Hahahaha, so that's how it is."
With one hand on his waist and the other scratching the back of his head, Luffy threw his head back and laughed.
"I thought you came specifically to help us."
"Are you kidding me?!"
"Don't get full of yourself, bastard!!"
Hearing that, Law and Kid rolled their eyes at the same time and bared their teeth as they shouted at him.
Luffy blinked in confusion, having no idea why the two had reacted so strongly. Then he waved a hand.
"Well, whatever. Anyway, thanks."
"But these opponents won't be easy to deal with."
Luffy stepped forward, his expression gradually turning serious