Smoker's Fear!

At Shanks's words, a glint flashed through Ace's eyes. He looked at Mirai Uchiha and Luffy, gritted his teeth, and stopped walking. Seeing this, Luffy and the others were a little confused and turned to look at Ace.

"Sorry, Luffy. This is where we part ways. You know, right? I have to capture a guy called Blackbeard, so I can't waste any more time here!" Ace tugged down his hat, hiding his eyes. A faint smile appeared on his lips, but it was somewhat bitter. He had only just reunited with Luffy, yet they had to part again so soon. Ace was reluctant to leave; after all, aside from the Whitebeard Pirates, Luffy was his only family in this world—his only little brother.

With Mirai and the others around, Ace was not worried that anything would happen to Luffy in this country. Even if the Marines showed up, it would not be a big deal. What he did not know was that the Marines really had come, and were currently waiting for them in the town ahead.

"Yeah, go do what you have to do. But I believe we'll see each other again soon. When that time comes, though, we'll be rivals. I'm not giving up the position of Pirate King to you!" Luffy said, pressing down his straw hat with a slightly solemn expression.

"Yeah, maybe. But let me make one thing clear: from childhood until now, you've never beaten me even once. If you don't work hard, then the position of Pirate King will be mine!" Ace smiled. Seeing Luffy about to argue, he stepped forward, took out a white slip of paper, and handed it to him. With a sigh, he said earnestly, "Keep this. One day, it'll lead you to me. Don't lose it, no matter