One Piece: Immortal, I Maxed Out Conqueror's Haki First

"Everything involving my son and me has put you through a lot, hasn't it?"

Rouge suddenly spoke softly.

"It's what I should do."

Xia Le turned to face the woman before him.

The devastated Baterilla Island, the words of Kong and Sengoku, and everything that had happened flashed through his mind. It had indeed cost him a great deal.

But since he had taken up this blade, he had to see his duty through.

"I only hope Ace can grow up safely, without trouble."

Rouge spoke.

"He will."

Xia Le smiled faintly.

He paused, seemingly feeling that his attitude had been a little too indifferent, then added,

"I'll do everything I can to keep you and your son safe."

If word got out that he had secretly sheltered Roger's wife and unborn child, the whole world would likely erupt. His reputation and standing within the Marines would vanish in an instant.

He might even lose his place in the Marines entirely.

When that happened, all his original plans would likely become impossible to carry out, forcing him to start from scratch.

"Thank you."

Rouge spoke quietly.

Afterward, Mina accompanied her into the cabin to rest.

Rouge slowly sat down and turned to look out the window. She felt no wind, but a faint, terrifying presence spread toward her, making her heart tremble.

Yet her expression did not change at all.

"Ace."

"As long as you're all right, Mommy will be all right."

The woman stroked her swollen belly, her face softening.

She suddenly recalled something Roger had once told her—his assessment of Xia Le.

"That kid is dangerous."

"But he's someone you can trust."

Scenes flashed before Rouge's eyes again: Bullet and Crocodile's sudden arrival on the day the first Marines reached the island, then boarding the ship today to