Only Boa Hancock

"???" Boa Hancock's expression was noticeably different from usual; her beautiful and aloof face now revealed an unusual look. Those present, with their keen eyes, immediately noticed her abnormality. However, what puzzled them was how Boa Hancock, the noble empress of the Amazon Lily in the Calm Belt, could be involved with Ulti and Page One.

It's important to understand that one is a ruler of his own kingdom in a secluded, Calm Belt; the other is two of the most powerful members of the infamous Beast Pirates. Not only are they separated by the vast and dangerous Calm Belt, but they also belong to completely different factions. Furthermore, there has never been any known interaction or connection between Kaido and his Beast Pirates and Boa Hancock.

Just as everyone was speculating, someone suddenly exclaimed, "Wait... Could it be that Moke has already recruited Ulti and Page One to his side? This guy is too audacious! How dare he blatantly provoke Kaido like this? Isn't he worried that the hot-tempered Four Emperors will fly into a rage?"

Hearing this, Doflamingo couldn't help but sneer Dark-Dark Fruit. He found the situation increasingly intriguing, and even began to feel confident of victory. Even if the Marine Headquarters' scheme against Moke ultimately failed to kill him, as long as it ignited Kaido's anger towards Moke, a fierce battle would inevitably erupt. Doflamingo was confident that he could profit from the chaos and reap the benefits.

His meticulously planned scheme, like a finely woven net, awaited its target. The brilliance of this plan lay in its clever use of Kaido, an incredibly sharp blade, to subtly trap the enemy, leading to their demise. Even more astonishing was that this operation required him to pay the exact slightest price. No, to be precise, not only did he not have to pay anything, but Kaido should be paying him a hefty reward. After all, he was the one who lent a helping hand, helping Kaido save face. Thinking of this, Doflamingo couldn't help but let out a low, sinister laugh, "Fufufu..."

However, at that moment, Boa Hancock appeared unusually agitated. Despite this, her exceptional intelligence allowed her to instantly grasp the deeper meaning behind Moke's words. It turned out that only if she chose to join his pirate crew would they be willing to remove the Celestial Dragon Hoof Mark, a symbol of shame and pain, from her. Faced with this condition, Boa Hancock knew she had no other choice but to temporarily suppress the surging emotions and impulses within her. Finally, she gazed deeply at Moke with a complex and unreadable expression, as if trying to see through his eyes to his true intentions.

"Tap tap..." A series of steady and powerful footsteps came, and everyone looked in the direction of the sound. They saw Fleet Admiral Sengoku and Vice Admiral Tsuru walking in side by side. In an instant, all eyes in the room were focused on them.

Sengoku's expression was solemn. His sharp eyes slowly swept across the room, as if trying to take in every expression. Finally, his gaze settled on the front, and he spoke in an undisguisedly direct tone, "Gentlemen, the reason I've gathered you all here is to discuss the matter of Portgas D. Ace, the second Whitebeard Pirates. After careful consideration by the higher-ups, we have made an important decision." He paused slightly, then resolutely announced the shocking news, "We will publicly execute Ace, in order to draw the Whitebeard Pirates..."

However, before he could finish speaking, he was interrupted by an angry shout. "I object!" Jinbe stood up abruptly, shouting angrily. His broad chest heaved violently, clearly indicating that he was extremely agitated. "Ace, he..." Unfortunately, Jinbe's words were also cut short, as Sengoku interrupted him without hesitation.

"You have no right to object!" Sengoku said coldly, his gaze towards Jinbe instantly turning sharp, even revealing a hint of hostility. The atmosphere was extremely tense, as if a single Mars could ignite a fierce conflict.

Sengoku Vice Admiral Tsuru, standing beside Sengoku, spoke with a grave expression, "Jinbe, this decision was made jointly by the World Government and the Navy, and its authority is beyond question. As one of the Shichibukai, what right do you have to stand up and oppose it? Have you forgotten that the title of Shichibukai not only brings you many advantages, but more importantly, it is also a rare guarantee for the entire Fish-Man Island? If you insist on disobeying, then without a doubt, the title of Shichibukai will be taken from your head. At that time, both you and Fish-Man Island will face unprecedented and enormous losses!"

These words pierced Jinbe's heart like a sharp sword, their underlying meaning self-evident. Clearly, if Jinbe refused to obey orders, only one fate awaited him—the loss of his prestigious status Shichibukai. Along with that, Fish-Man Island would lose all the privileges and protection it enjoyed as an ally of the World Government ...

Upon hearing this, Jinbe's previously calm face instantly darkened, like the oppressive atmosphere before an impending storm. He had to admit, the threat had struck him squarely where it hurt. At this moment, Jinbe was filled with mixed emotions. On one hand, he knew he bore the heavy responsibility of protecting Fish-Man Island; on the other hand, he was unwilling to easily bow to power. However, reality is often cruel and ruthless, leaving one with no choice but to act.

Just then, Moke, who had been silently observing from the sidelines, suddenly raised an eyebrow. With his deep understanding of the plot, he knew exactly what was going to happen next— Jinbe would ultimately be imprisoned in Impel Down. Recalling the original story, Jinbe hadn't even set foot in Marine Headquarters before becoming a prisoner in Impel Down. And at the exact same time, Luffy was leading his crew in causing a massive upheaval within Impel Down ...

Just as the Whitebeard Pirates were about to arrive, Blackbeard vanished like a ghost. Taking advantage of everyone's unpreparedness, he stealthily made his way to the infamous Impel Down. Meanwhile, Jinbe closely followed behind Luffy, embarking on a thrilling prison break together.

He involuntarily turned his head, his gaze falling on Boa Hancock in the distance. He pondered to himself that he had drastically altered the entire plot. Would Luffy, as depicted in the original story, be mercilessly sent flying to Boa Hancock's location after the fierce battle? Thinking this, he couldn't help but glance hastily in Boa Hancock's direction again, muttering to himself, "I'll definitely find an opportunity to probe her properly later..."

Immediately afterward, his gaze shifted rapidly to Jinbe not far away. At that moment, his mind was racing with various thoughts—after all, his captain's crew consisted entirely of individuals with powerful Devil Fruit abilities. However, such a team lacked a Fish-Man who possessed both formidable strength and noble character, and who could inspire complete trust. Thinking about it this way, Jinbe before him seemed... quite suitable!

If Luffy hadn't arrived at Amazon Lily as the original storyline had unfolded, the situation would have been very different! In that case, Luffy wouldn't have been able to enter the dangerous Impel Down. Luffy would have given him more opportunities and time to grow and explore new adventures.

At this moment, Moke was in an exceptionally good mood. He smiled, his eyes revealing an undisguised excitement. In stark contrast to Moke was Jinbe, the hero of the Fish-Men, who was currently caught in a deep dilemma.

It's important to understand that Fish-Man Island holds an extremely important place in Jinbe's heart; it's not only his hometown but also the home of countless Fish-Man. However, the principles he upholds are equally unshakable. Moreover, the reason Fish-Man Island enjoys such a rare peaceful life is not only due to his status as Shichibukai, but also inseparable from the long-term protection it has received from the Whitebeard Pirates.

Therefore, Jinbe felt extremely troubled when faced with Fleet Admiral Sengoku's request. After a fierce internal struggle, he finally gritted his teeth and said with great difficulty, "Fleet Admiral Sengoku, please forgive me for not being able to agree to this. I absolutely cannot Whitebeard Pirates... I hope you and everyone else can understand my predicament." After saying this, Jinbe's expression was extremely heavy, as if a huge boulder was pressing on his heart.

Sengoku's brows furrowed tightly, as if tied in a knot. Do you understand? From a purely personal standpoint, perhaps such behavior could indeed be understood. However, he was no ordinary person! He was the Fleet Admiral, representing not only himself, but the entire vast naval system, and even the more powerful World Government behind it. Personal feelings had to be set aside at this moment, because he bore the heavy responsibility of upholding justice and defending order.

"Hoo..." Sengoku exhaled a deep breath, as if trying to expel all the frustration in his heart. Then, with a solemn expression, he said in a low but firm voice, "In that case, I'll have to ask you to stay at Impel Down for a while." The meaning of these words was self-evident; he wanted to completely cut off Jinbe transmitting any messages to the outside world, not even the slightest bit.

Faced with this sudden decision, Jinbe showed no sign of resistance. He simply nodded slightly, indicating his acceptance of the arrangement. Then, without hesitation, he turned and strode out, his steps steady and powerful, showing no trace of hesitation or doubt. Sunlight fell on his broad back, casting a long shadow, as if foreshadowing the unknown fate he was about to step into.

His astonishing act was like a thunderclap in everyone's hearts, causing an indescribable shock. Even those who were ruthless and willing to do anything to achieve their goals, like Doflamingo and Blackbeard, or those who were always unconventional and independent like Hawkeye, were deeply shocked.

However, unlike the others, Moke increasingly admired this man's performance, secretly thinking, "Such a talent, if he could become my crew member, would surely add a powerful force to my fleet!" Therefore, he made up his mind to recruit this man into his ranks.

As for that guy named Wang Luffy... Moke just curled his lip in disdain, thinking to himself, "Let him stay quietly to the side for now!" After all, in Moke's eyes, Wang Luffy had not yet shown any strength or value worthy of his attention.

Just then, Jinbe quietly left. Seeing this, Sengoku, without hesitation, issued an order to everyone present—everyone must reside at Marine Headquarters until the final battle with the Whitebeard Pirates is over. This sudden decision instantly darkened the faces of everyone present, their brows furrowed. After all, whether it was the cunning Blackbeard, the arrogant Doflamingo, the aloof and cold Hawkeye, or the alluring Empress Boa Hancock ... which of them would willingly endure the humiliation of being dependent on others? And which of them wasn't a domineering, absolute ruler?

The Sengoku's condescending and arrogant tone was like a sharp blade piercing the hearts of everyone present, causing them extreme discomfort and resentment. However, at this moment, although everyone present was quite dissatisfied with the Sengoku's attitude, they each harbored their own ulterior motives and had their own calculations and considerations. Therefore, not one of them dared to stand up and openly refute the Sengoku's remarks. And so, the matter was settled in silence.

Before long, these people were sent to a remote and desolate corner of the Marine Headquarters according to the established plan. The area was deserted and the environment was harsh, which was in stark contrast to the bustling and lively core area of Marine Headquarters.

As Sengoku turned to leave, he suddenly stopped and stared intently at Enel with a profound and unsettling gaze. His eyes seemed to see through all secrets, sending chills down one's spine. In truth, Sengoku had already obtained detailed information about Enel. Sengoku was filled with apprehension towards this enigmatic figure whose strength was unfathomable.

Night had fallen, all was quiet, and the whole world seemed to be asleep. In this peaceful moment, Moke was sitting alone in his room, deep in thought. Suddenly, a rapid ringing of Den Den Mushi broke the silence.

Moke was startled by the sudden noise and quickly reached for the Den Den Mushi, pressing the answer button. Instantly, the tiny Den Den Mushi underwent a miraculous transformation, turning into a familiar face in the blink of an eye— Vergo!

Vergo said with a serious expression, "Captain, I've just obtained important intelligence. According to reliable sources, Gild Tesoro, Doflamingo, and the Marine Headquarters have reached a secret agreement. They plan to turn their attention to you immediately after successfully eliminating the Whitebeard Pirates!"

Upon hearing this astonishing news, Moke was slightly taken aback. The strange look Doflamingo had given him during their encounter earlier that day immediately flashed through his mind. Now, everything seemed clear. So, Doflamingo had already been plotting against him back then.

Moke's already narrow eyes narrowed even further, a cold glint gleaming within them, as if concealing endless danger. He stood there silently, the air around him seemingly frozen by the chilling aura emanating from him.

After a long silence, as if time itself had frozen, his tightly closed lips finally parted slightly, as if a clam shell had been forcibly pried open. Then, from between his narrow teeth, he squeezed out a few words, each one seemingly frozen for a long time, radiating a chilling cold. His voice, as icy as a howling northwest wind in the dead of winter, could penetrate to the very marrow of one's soul. "I understand. You must be careful... You absolutely cannot expose your identity!"

Although he spoke very slowly, so slowly that one could hardly perceive any pauses in his words, the undeniable authority he exuded was so clear and intense. This authority was like an incredibly heavy mountain, pressing down on one, making it hard to breathe.

Standing on the other end of the phone, Vergo clearly felt the immense pressure from the other party. Without hesitation, he nodded vigorously and replied in the same firm and determined tone, "Don't worry, Captain! I will handle everything carefully, please trust me!"

After making that promise, Vergo seemed to want to say something more to express his confidence and courage, but for some reason, the words caught in his throat. In the end, he simply hung up the phone silently.

As the call abruptly ended, Moke slowly and gently placed the Den Den Mushi he had been clutching back onto the table. However, in that seemingly ordinary moment, a surge of pent-up anger, long suppressed, erupted from the depths of his heart, as unstoppable as a long-dormant volcano suddenly erupting.

Moke's once calm eyes had turned bloodshot, burning with fierce flames; he clenched his fists tightly, and the veins on his arms bulged out from the excessive force, like grotesque and twisted earthworms; his upper and lower rows of teeth were grinding together, making a chilling sound, as if he wanted to chew up and swallow everything in the world.

"These damned bastards, how dare they scheme against me so blatantly? Do they really think I, Moke, am easy to bully? This is simply outrageous!" Moke roared in a low voice, his eyes flashing with Hanabi. He never imagined that those who were usually so respectful and obsequious to him would dare to resort to such underhanded tactics behind his back. The thought only fueled his growing rage.

"Since you want to cause trouble, don't blame me for playing this game properly with you, and if we're going to play, we'll play big!" Moke muttered to himself through gritted teeth. He Dark-Dark Fruit resolved that no matter how powerful the enemy or how difficult the obstacles, he would never easily give in. A thrilling contest was about to begin...

"Bru bru..." A hurried and familiar voice came through, and Moke frowned slightly, secretly surprised. He didn't expect the Den Den Mushi to ring again! After a brief moment of astonishment, he quickly came to his senses and grabbed the receiver.

Robin's clear, pleasant voice came from the other end of the phone. "Mr. 0, after meticulous reconnaissance and tracking, we have finally pinpointed M. Caesar Clown's exact location. I have already dispatched Mr. 2, Mr. 3, and Miss Golden Week to carry out the mission."

Upon hearing this, Moke was slightly taken aback, but then a satisfied smile appeared on his face. He was quite familiar with the abilities of these three subordinates. Especially Mr. 2, whose strength, while not top-tier, was still quite good. And most importantly, he possessed the magical ability to transform into anyone at will, which allowed him to easily approach targets and reduce the risk of his actions being discovered.

As for Mr. 3 and Miss Golden Week, the former excels at controlling the battlefield and can effectively restrain the enemy; the latter is a powerful control expert whose unique attack methods often leave opponents defenseless. With their assistance, the chances of success in this operation against M. Caesar Courland will undoubtedly increase significantly.

Thinking this, Moke nodded and said to the Den Den Mushi, "Yes, very good. Robin, keep a close eye on their progress and report to me immediately. This time, we must take down M. Caesar Courland in one fell swoop!" After saying that, he hung up the phone and looked into the distance, as if he could already see the dawn of victory in sight.

It is speculated that even a powerful Logia-type Devil Logia user would find it difficult to easily counter this technique. It's important to understand that her attack isn't a direct, physical attack; instead, she meticulously inscribes a mysterious symbol on her opponent's body. This symbol seems to possess some kind of magical power, capable of subtly and profoundly influencing and suggesting to the target, its power being astonishing.

If, on top of this, she were granted an extremely rare Devil Fruit connected to emotions, painting, paint, or even the soul, the consequences would be unimaginable! Her strength would experience a qualitative leap, perhaps even becoming a force to be reckoned with. Imagine the terrifying power she would unleash when she perfectly combines her unique painting skills with the power of the Devil Fruit— it would surely strike fear into the hearts of all her enemies.