The Seraphim with Intelligence!

Luffy's body was changing rapidly, and a completely different kind of Conqueror's Haki began radiating from him.

Abel was not the only one who sensed this unfamiliar presence. Even Kuma, who was fighting Sanji in the underground plaza, sensed it clearly.

"Joy Boy!"

The Drum of Liberation rang out within the New Marines' underground base, awakening the ancient memories buried deep in Kuma's bloodline.

He muttered softly. At that moment, Kuma could no longer spare any attention for Sanji before him. His figure flashed, and he swiftly vanished from the underground plaza.

"Hey!!"

Kuma disappeared without a sound. To Sanji, it was practically teleportation; his eyes simply could not catch sight of the other man.

Although Sanji had no idea why Kuma had left in such a rush, he could guess that it was related to the familiar Conqueror's Haki that had suddenly erupted from deep within the corridor.

Whether it was Kuma or Abel, this was the first time they had sensed Joy Boy's presence from such close range. The sound of the Drum of Liberation held a special meaning for ancient races like theirs.

"Luffy!!"

Sanji knew that Luffy must have encountered some formidable enemy. He was familiar with the aura of Nika's form, and seeing Kuma leave in such a hurry, he could not help worrying about his companions. After a brief moment of thought, he hurried down the corridor Luffy and the others had taken, heading toward the treasure vault.

In the corridor before the underground treasure vault.

Abel watched Luffy's transformation from beginning to end. Luffy had now completely entered the Nika state. His black hair had turned into a strange, rubbery white, and the aura he gave off was far more powerful than before.

"Joy Boy is a brat like you?!"

At this point,