Pirate: I Maxed Out Conqueror's Haki First Because I Can't Die

The Lightning Puppet spoke.

Crocodile's eyes flickered. He lit a cigar and began puffing away.

Bullet looked impatient. Compared with a job that took no skill, he would rather have a proper fight.

All the while, the Lightning Puppet stood there in silence, motionless.

Toward evening, a figure approached, her face weary and worried. She gently stroked her belly with her right hand and sighed.

It was Portgas D. Rouge.

She had expected this might happen, but she had not thought the Navy would arrive so quickly. They had sealed off the island's harbor, leaving her no way to escape.

"What should I do now?"

Confusion filled Rouge's eyes.

Could she still protect the child in her womb?

She could die, but she wanted Ace to be born safely and grow up well.

In a daze, Rouge reached her house, took out her key, unlocked the door, went inside, and shut it tight. Only after fumbling through those motions did she collapse into a chair.

"Ace!"

"My poor child."

Rouge's voice trembled, but determination soon filled her eyes.

"Don't be afraid. Mommy will protect you."

"Whatever it takes."

Suddenly, the door shook under a heavy knock.

"Who is it?"

Rouge's heart lurched, but she kept her voice steady.

The Navy had found nothing unusual when they inspected her during the day. She had not been pregnant long, and her belly had yet to show.

"Open the door!"

The low voice sounded impatient.

"Or we'll kick it down!"

Rouge froze. After a moment's hesitation, she got up and opened the door.

Three tall, powerfully built men stood outside.

"Portgas D. Rouge!"

The Lightning Puppet pulled back his hood, a stiff smile appearing on his face.

"It's you?!"

Rouge stared.

She recognized the three men. They had attended her wedding a year