While they were traveling, Naruto had already figured out the current timeline.
Nami had met Luffy long ago. They had spent nearly a month together and already formed a bond. Taking Luffy's place under those circumstances clearly called for something beyond the usual approach.
So Naruto decided to solve the problem at its root—bring Bellemere straight back to life.
What did a month together matter? Going straight for the sweet spot was far more satisfying. Once he resolved the greatest burden in Nami's heart, Luffy's little advantage would disappear on its own.
After hearing Naruto explain the situation, Bellemere froze, then turned pale with anger.
"What did you say? Nami joined the Arlong Pirates to buy back Cocoyasi Village?"
Her voice rose sharply. "After all these years, the Marines still haven't arrested Arlong and his gang?"
Naruto's lips twitched. "You used to be a Marine yourself. You should know better than anyone. In a world ruled by the Celestial Dragons, do you think every Marine refuses to bow to evil like you did?"
Bellemere fell silent, the anger on her face quickly giving way to guilt.
Then she hurriedly asked, "What about the people of Cocoyasi Village? Do they know what Nami's going through?"
"Of course they do," Naruto answered without hesitation. "They're all waiting."
Bellemere didn't understand. "Waiting for what?"
"For Nami to escape. Once she really runs away, the villagers will fight the Fish-Men to the death. The only reason they haven't acted yet is that they don't want to destroy the hope Nami worked so hard to preserve."
At those words, tears immediately welled up in Bellemere's eyes.
"Everyone..."
She herself had been raised by the villagers of Cocoyasi Village. Hearing that they knew the danger yet were still willing to endure it for Nami filled her