But It's Crocodile!

"That's Crocodile! One of the Shichibukai the Sea..." Robin murmured to herself, her gaze unconsciously drifting towards the figure in the distance— Moke. Like Crocodile, this man was a powerful being who controlled the forces of nature. To Robin, they were like demons from a nightmare, inspiring fear in her.

Robin's eyes flickered, and her thoughts drifted back to that unbearable past. From a young age, she had experienced the cruelest things in the world: her entire family was massacred, and she was the only one who survived. From then on, she struggled alone in this world full of suffering and hardship.

Both her childhood and her present life are filled with endless pain. Wherever she goes, people look at her with strange eyes and call her "the Devil Child." Not only that, due to her special identity and background, the Navy has listed her as a major wanted person, with a bounty of tens of millions of Beli. Because of this, no matter where she is, she is always followed by a group of vicious pursuers and constantly faces life-or-death crises.

She struggled through this treacherous and deceitful world, never giving up searching for a reliable source of strength to rely on as a temporary safe haven. However, fate seemed to always be playing tricks on her; every time she thought she had found a dependable "backer," she was met with ruthless betrayal. These repeated experiences gradually hardened her once tender heart, making her no longer easily trust anyone.

Currently, her relationship with Crocodile is merely one of mutual exploitation. For her, Crocodile provides a degree of protection, shielding her from certain dangers; at the same time, she harbors a deep longing to obtain the mysterious Poneglyph from the Alabasta Kingdom. As for Crocodile, he covets Robin's unique ability to decipher Ancient Script, attempting to use her to uncover the secrets of Pluton.

But life is unpredictable! Not long ago, Crocodile tragically perished, meaning she lost a crucial ally. Now, she's like a lone boat adrift in Gale storm, desperately needing another, even stronger protector... and this person must surpass Crocodile's former power! So, among the vast sea of people, is there truly such a suitable candidate?

Those ambitious newcomers who had just stepped onto this vast ocean were eager to gather all sorts of intelligence in order to gain a foothold in this Wind Rises era. Someone as intelligent, wise, and experienced as Robin was undoubtedly the most ideal partner in their eyes. Could there be a better choice? Thinking this, Robin's lips curled into a slight smile, a sly grin appearing on her beautiful face—for at this moment, she already had a brilliant idea.

Having just successfully defeated Crocodile, Moke hurried towards the direction where he had hidden the items. He was both excited and nervous along the way, as the hidden objects were of paramount importance to him.

When Moke finally arrived at his destination, the sight before him made him pause in surprise. A stunningly beautiful woman with a hot figure was sitting leisurely next to their hiding place, a playful smile on her lips, her eyes fixed on him, as if she had expected him to appear at this moment.

Moke's pupils contracted sharply, a surge of indescribable shock and vigilance welling up within him. Because with just one glance, he immediately recognized the woman—she was none other than Robin, the goddess in the hearts of all One Piece fans!

At this moment, Robin exudes a captivating charm. She has healthy, tanned skin, and her straight, black hair cascades down her shoulders like a waterfall, smooth and lustrous. A white cowboy hat adds a touch of coolness and nonchalance to her look. She wears a matching white women's trench coat, which flutters gently in the wind, further accentuating her graceful figure.

Beneath that flowing, chic trench coat lay a captivating purple crop top. The top's design was ingenious and unique, its center completely open! However, this daring design wasn't haphazard; it cleverly employed several delicate, silky "shoelaces" interwoven together. Thus, when a gentle breeze blew, these "shoelaces" would sway, subtly revealing her sexy, alluring waist and stunningly impressive cleavage. In an instant, she shone like a dazzling jewel, drawing everyone's attention and becoming the center of attention.

Moving the gaze downwards, one can see a short purple skirt, the same color as her top, tightly hugging her long, straight, beautiful legs. The skirt seems tailor-made for her, perfectly conforming to the curves of her legs and showcasing her graceful figure to the fullest. Whether strolling lightly or turning elegantly, every movement of hers draws gasps of admiration from onlookers, allowing them to deeply feel the powerful aura and unparalleled confidence emanating from her.

It must be admitted that while this woman at this moment didn't yet possess the captivating charm she would have years later, she already had considerable assets. But then again, what exactly enabled her to know that he had hidden important items here? Could it be that she had actually arrived on this island long ago, silently lurking in the shadows, quietly observing the unfolding situation?

And just then, she actually chose to appear in this place... Moke's pupils involuntarily contracted slightly, a strange feeling welled up in his heart, because a bold conjecture flashed through his mind in an instant.

"Nicole Robin ... I never expected you to come here. What brings you here?" Moke asked calmly, his gaze fixed on the mysterious woman before him, though his heart was already in turmoil.

Robin was clearly taken aback that Moke had seen through her identity so easily. Her expression changed slightly, but this change lasted only a moment before she regained her composure and calm. Then, a captivating smile curved her lips, as radiant and dazzling as a spring flower in full bloom. "I've come here to discuss a collaboration with you."

"Cooperation?" Moke was genuinely surprised to hear this word. Originally, he had expected things to develop as they did in the original story, with Robin joining Luffy's ship without hesitation and becoming a member of the Straw Hat Pirates. But now, she was proposing to cooperate with him, which was completely Moke.

Nico Robin seemed to read Moke's mind and said calmly, "I have access to the entire intelligence network of Crocodile's 'Baroque Works,' including the agents hidden in the shadows. Of course, except for Daz Bones and the few who showed up today. After all, they already know that M.0 is Crocodile himself. But rest assured, I am confident I can persuade them to continue working for 'Baroque Works.'"

"Wow..." Moke's eyes lit up involuntarily, a surge of indescribable surprise and excitement welling up inside him. He never expected Robin to use such a move! It was completely different from the original story.

It was initially thought that Robin simply joined the Straw Hat Pirates on her own, but now it seems things are far more complex. While Crocodile's crew can only be considered truly strong—Mr. 1, Mr. 2, and Mr. 3—the Baroque Works possesses a large number of intelligence operatives. These individuals may not excel in direct combat, but their intelligence-gathering abilities in the first half of the Grand Line are absolutely formidable.

At that very moment, Moke suddenly realized that if he could hold such a large and powerful intelligence organization firmly in his grasp, it would undoubtedly bring him immeasurable benefits and advantages. Therefore, he unconsciously turned his gaze to Robin, and that gaze subtly shifted. Deep within his previously calm eyes, complex emotions now stirred—both a fervent anticipation of a bright future and a meticulous reflection after careful consideration.

Time ticked by, and the world seemed to fall into a brief silence. After a long while, Moke finally broke the stillness, parting his lips slightly and slowly asking Robin, "Since I want to acquire this intelligence organization, I must have to pay a price, right? So, please tell me, specifically, what kind of sacrifice or to what extent should I make?"

As soon as she finished speaking, Robin paused for a moment. She lowered her head, seemingly carefully considering how to respond to Moke's crucial question. Finally, after much deliberation, Robin raised her head again, her beautiful yet resolute eyes fixed on Moke, and then answered without hesitation and with unwavering resolve, "When I face danger or desperately need help, you must step forward and protect me with all your might!"

After hearing Robin's words, Moke's previously calm face softened, a faint, almost imperceptible smile curving his lips. That smile seemed to conceal endless meaning and confidence, making it difficult to fathom his true thoughts.

Immediately afterward, Moke leaned forward slightly and asked in a slightly teasing yet composed tone, "Oh? So, the so-called dangerous situation you're referring to is a potential threat from the Navy?"

Just as Moke finished speaking, Robin's beautiful eyes narrowed sharply, as if struck by Inazuma. In that instant, a strong sense of unease and surprise welled up within her. Because at that moment, she suddenly realized that this seemingly ordinary guy had such a thorough understanding of the secrets deep within her heart!

Robin fell into a brief silence and hesitation. However, before she could recover, Moke spoke again, this time with an undeniable firmness and sincerity in his words.

Moke said earnestly, "As long as you sincerely join my ranks, follow me wholeheartedly, and harbor no other ill intentions, then believe me, from that moment on, you will be my closest and most trusted partner. Even when facing a formidable enemy like Marine Admiral, I will not hesitate to step forward and protect you, ensuring your safety... This promise is priceless, and I will never break it!"

Moke's words struck Robin like a hammer blow. Her body trembled violently, and she stared at Moke in astonishment, her beautiful eyes wide open, as if she couldn't believe what she had just heard.

In that instant, Robin felt as if a sudden storm had swept through his heart, turning everything upside down and completely overturning all his previous knowledge and feelings.

Her eyes widened in disbelief as she stared at the man before her—the seemingly ordinary man who had always been silently by her side. Now, she awoke as if from a dream, realizing how deeply he understood her dark, unknown past! It was a painful experience she herself didn't want to recall, buried deep within her memory.

However, to her utter surprise, despite knowing all about her painful past, the man chose to accept her without hesitation. This tolerance and trust was like a bright and blazing light, instantly piercing through the layers of gloom in Robin's heart, causing her once cold heart to tremble violently.

At the same time, an indescribable feeling of gratitude and warmth flowed gently from the deepest part of her heart, gradually spreading throughout her body. She had encountered many people before who verbally promised to understand and support her, only to betray her ruthlessly and push her into deeper abyss the moment they turned their backs. But now, as she gazed at the sincere face before her, a strange sense of peace welled up within her.

Meanwhile, Moke had already silently reached the location where the item was hidden. He deftly bent down and carefully cradled the important item in his hands. Then, he straightened up, a slight smile playing on his lips, and smiled gently at Robin, saying, "Even someone like Crocodile protected you. Do you really think I'm inferior to him? Even if we take a step back and consider the worst-case scenario, just the fact that you brought me the intelligence network Crocodile painstakingly built... that alone is enough for me to do everything in my power to protect you."

Robin nodded slightly, her eyes fixed on Moke, listening intently to every word he uttered. As time passed, her beautiful face grew serious, and her thoughts surged like a turbulent tide.

As Robin carefully considered Moke's words, Robin thought to herself, "Hmm, after his analysis, it does make sense..." The more she thought about it, the more she felt that what Moke said made sense, and the doubts and worries that had been lingering in her mind seemed to gradually dissipate at this moment.

Thinking of this, Robin's heart, which had been hanging in suspense due to the unknown, seemed to have found a solid support and became much calmer without her realizing it. At this moment, she was finally able to relax a little, re-examine the situation before her, and think about how to deal with the various possible scenarios.

At that moment, Moke's eyes, sharp as a hawk's, locked onto Robin, as if trying to see through her appearance to the depths of her heart. Time ticked by, and the surroundings were deathly silent, save for the sound of their breathing. After a long silence, Moke finally broke it, speaking again, "I think this arrangement is more appropriate... Immediately order the three elite teams—M. r1, M. r2, and M. r3—to rush to Asuka Island. Their mission is crucial—they must seize the legendary Holy Sword stored on that isolated island at all costs! Once they succeed, they must escort it to Chef Island without delay!"

At this point, Moke's words came to an abrupt halt, like a high-speed train suddenly slamming on the brakes. His brow furrowed slightly, and the previously tense facial muscles relaxed slightly, as if he had recalled a crucial detail or an unexpected situation. His sharp, piercing eyes narrowed slightly, and the light in his deep pupils flickered uncertainly, clearly indicating that he was rapidly searching for a solution in his mind.

In a few short seconds, Moke's expression changed several times, but he finally took a deep breath, calmed himself down, and continued to give instructions methodically, "As for you..." As he finished speaking, his gaze fell directly on the person in front of him without flinching. And the person he was staring at was none other than Robin, who had a solemn expression on his face.

"You'll need to help me find Van Oka and Gizas Jesus Burgess. They're no ordinary people! Van Oka is a renowned sniper; with a sniper rifle in hand, taking down an enemy from a kilometer away is a piece of cake. And Gizas Jesus Burgess is a Might-Shaker boxing champion; his fists are as hard and powerful as iron hammers. If you get hit by one, the consequences are unimaginable!"

Upon hearing Moke's words, Robin's expression instantly turned serious. She was acutely aware of the arduousness and danger of this mission. It was not only a tremendous test of her personal abilities, but also a demonstration of the overall strength of M. r1, M. r2, and M. r3 teams. It was no exaggeration to say that the successful completion of this mission would directly impact the future development of the entire Baroque Works, making it of paramount importance.

However, time seemed to freeze at that moment. After a brief hesitation, Robin nodded firmly without hesitation. A confident smile slowly bloomed on her beautiful and resolute face, as radiant and captivating as a flower blooming in spring. She parted her lips slightly and responded in a clear, melodious, and unwavering voice. "From this moment on, you are the supreme Mr. 0 of Baroque Works. Every order you issue will become the highest directive that Baroque Works cannot disobey!"

Just then, the previously relaxed atmosphere suddenly changed. Moke, who had been silent, seemed to have thought of something important, abruptly changing the subject. A barely perceptible hint of doubt flashed in his deep, pool-like eyes. Then, his brow furrowed slightly, and he asked in a serious tone, "However, dear Miss Robin, are you truly confident you can successfully persuade that stubborn and hot-tempered Daz Bones? You know, that guy is no pushover..." At this point, Moke couldn't help but shake his head slightly, expressing his concern.

Hearing Moke's words, Robin's smile didn't fade at all. She took a deep breath, then nodded confidently and said, "Don't worry, Mr. Moke. Although Daz Bones is indeed not an easy person to persuade, I know him quite well. To be honest, I personally value this guy very much. Because in my observation and judgment, if his abilities can be properly developed and Awakening, then the strength he can display will be absolutely terrifying. And I firmly believe that he has the enormous potential to achieve such a breakthrough!" After saying these words, Robin's gaze became even more determined, as if she could already see the wonderful scene after the plan succeeded.

After listening to Robin's detailed and confident explanation, Moke's anxious heart finally eased a little. He nodded in satisfaction and smiled, saying, "Hmm, very good. Since you're so confident, I'll wait and see. I hope everything will proceed smoothly as we expect." Finally, Moke smiled and said to Robin, "Then, let's make a promise to meet again on that mysterious Chef Island. At that time, we will witness together the final fruits of this great plan!" As soon as he finished speaking, he gave Robin a meaningful look and cast an encouraging glance at her. Then, without hesitation, Moke turned around and walked away with firm steps, quickly disappearing on the distant horizon. Robin, however, remained standing quietly, watching Moke's departing figure, her mind racing as she considered the series of actions she would take next.

Meanwhile, at the distant Marine Headquarters, the atmosphere was unusually heavy and oppressive. Fleet Admiral Sengoku's face was ashen, several shades darker than the bottom of a pot. He had recently learned of the earth-shattering news of Moke's successful killing of Crocodile. Vice Admiral Tsuru, seeing this, quickly stepped forward and said, "Now that he has so cleanly and efficiently eliminated the infamous pirate Crocodile, he has undoubtedly proven his unparalleled strength to the world. In my opinion, the most urgent task is to immediately dispatch Smoker and Tashigi to invite him to join the Shichibukai." After a slight pause, as if considering something important, Vice Admiral Tsuru added, "And the action must be swift. We must complete this before a new conflict erupts between him and our Marines! Otherwise, the consequences could be unimaginable..."