A thick blanket of storm clouds hung low in the sky, so dark and heavy that rain seemed ready to pour at any moment.
Buggy's face was so smug it was practically dripping. He looked ready to throw back his head and laugh at the sky, wearing the sort of expression that begged for a punch, as though today were his big day.
"Today, I'm going to punish you, Luffy."
"You really dared to cross me. This time, I'll execute you myself."
"But don't worry. This time, I'll show you what real strength looks like."
The more Buggy talked, the more excited he became, as though he could already see Luffy's head rolling.
Wave after wave of laughter rose from below. The mood was almost festive, as if everyone were waiting for a good show.
Luffy was pinned down on the Execution Platform, but he wore a huge, delighted grin. He looked downright happy, without the slightest awareness that he was about to die.
"Haha! Getting to watch this in person is awesome."
"This is perfect. I love it like this."
"Whatever happens next, we've got to be careful. If we aren't, it'll be boring."
"Besides, this game has only just begun. This is how it should be."
"Getting to see an execution with my own eyes is great. I can finally enjoy a spectacle I've never seen before."
Luffy had no idea what he was saying. All he could think about was watching the excitement unfold.
The man beside him gave a scornful sneer, barely able to hide the mockery on his face.
"I'm afraid you won't get to watch."
"After all, you're the one being executed."
"And there's no chance of you escaping now."
"All you can do is take a beating."
"You're in for a world of