Chereads / The New Dawn of Monkey D. Luffy / Chapter 17 - Chapter 17: Clash of Giants and Shadows

Chapter 17 - Chapter 17: Clash of Giants and Shadows

Luffy, Zoro, and Usopp stood on the lush, green island, their eyes fixed on the two colossal figures before them. Dorry and Brogy, the legendary giant warriors, clashed with their massive weapons, each swing creating shockwaves that rustled the trees and sent birds scattering into the sky. The ground trembled beneath their feet, and the air was filled with the giants' booming laughter, a sound that resonated with the spirit of battle and camaraderie.

Usopp's heart raced with excitement and admiration. He had always dreamed of becoming a brave warrior of the sea, and here were two living legends embodying that very dream. "They are what the brave warrior of the sea is," he whispered, feeling a deep connection to his childhood aspirations.

Luffy's eyes sparkled with uncontainable excitement. "Yes, they're amazing!" he exclaimed, his voice filled with awe. "I want to fight them too!"

Zoro smirked and crossed his arms. "You sure about that, Luffy? They're not holding back."

"Yeah, but that's what makes it fun!" Luffy grinned after the giant finished their duel, bouncing on his feet with infectious enthusiasm. He approached the giants, waving his arms energetically to get their attention. "Hey, Dorry! Brogy! Can I spar with you?"

The giants, their massive forms casting long shadows over the trio, looked down at the tiny human with amusement and curiosity. "GABABABABA! You want to spar with us, little one?" Dorry laughed, his voice echoing through the jungle.

"GEGYAGYAGYAGYA! Very well, show us your strength!" Brogy agreed, intrigued by Luffy's boldness and enthusiasm.

Luffy eagerly jumped into the fray, his rubbery limbs stretching and contracting as he darted around the giants.

He landed punches and kicks with all his might, his laughter mingling with the giants' as they playfully swatted at him.

Luffy, bouncing around like a rubber ball, shouted gleefully, "Shishishi! This is so fun!" He stretched his arm for a punch, only to have it caught by Dorry's massive hand.

"GABABABABA! You're like a tiny flea, little one!" Dorry laughed, flicking Luffy away.

Luffy went flying, his rubbery body stretching comically before snapping back. He landed on his feet, eyes spinning. "Whoa! The whole island is spinning!"

Zoro facepalmed. "Idiot captain..."

Usopp, meanwhile, was hiding behind a tree. "I-I think I've come down with can't-fight-giants disease!"

Despite his efforts, the giants' sheer size and experience proved overwhelming, yet Luffy's spirit remained unbroken.

"You're strong, little warrior!" Dorry boomed, blocking Luffy's attack with ease, his massive hand absorbing the impact like a gentle breeze.

Luffy laughed, even as he was sent flying by a gentle swipe from Brogy. "Shishishi! You guys are awesome! I need to get stronger!"

Usopp watched Luffy's determination and the giants' camaraderie, feeling a surge of confidence and inspiration. Seeing Dorry and Brogy, two legendary warriors, embody the spirit of bravery and strength, Usopp realized that being a brave warrior of the sea wasn't just about physical strength; it was about courage, resilience, and the willingness to stand up for what you believe in.

Zoro noticed Usopp's thoughtful expression and gave him a nod. "Looks like you found something important, huh?"

Usopp nodded, a determined smile on his face. "Yeah, I did. I'm going to become a brave warrior of the sea, just like them."

Meanwhile, Robin sat in quiet contemplation on the deck of the Going Merry, her mind a whirl of thoughts and plans. I need to find out what Mr. 3 is planning. I can't let Crocodile suspect me anymore, she thought, her mind a labyrinth of strategies and contingencies. Her abilities allowed her to gather information discreetly, and she intended to use them to remain unseen and undetected.

As the Going Merry rocked gently on the waves, the sun cast a warm glow over the ship. The air was filled with the sound of the sea, a constant reminder of the adventures that lay ahead.

Vivi, Nami, Karoo, and Sanji stood on the deck of the ship. Sanji, ever the gentleman, realized they needed to restock supplies, but he hesitated to leave the ladies unprotected. His protective instincts warred with his sense of duty, a conflict that played out in the depths of his eyes.

Sanji, torn between duty and chivalry, spun in circles. "But Nami-swan, Vivi-chan, how can I leave such delicate flowers unprotected?"

Nami bonked him on the head. "Who are you calling delicate?!"

Vivi giggled nervously. "Sanji-kun, we'll be fine. Really."

Karoo quacked indignantly as if to say, "Hey, I'm here too!"

Sanji, with hearts in his eyes, "Ah, Nami-swan is so beautiful when she's angry!"

Nami sighed, "Just go get the supplies before I raise your debt."

As they discussed their plans, Robin quietly slipped away, her presence unnoticed by the others. She was accustomed to working alone and knew how to move without drawing attention, her footsteps silent as she disappeared into the shadows, a ghost in the world of the living.

A few moments later, Nami glanced around and noticed Robin's absence. "Wait, where's Robin?" she asked a hint of curiosity in her voice, her instincts sharp and her mind alert.

Vivi looked around, her expression turning cautious. "She was just here a moment ago. Why would she leave without saying anything?" she wondered aloud, her mind racing with possibilities and her heart filled with a quiet unease.

Sanji frowned, scanning the deck with a furrowed brow. "Did she go somewhere without telling us?" he asked, concern lacing his words and his mind filled with questions.

Karoo quacked again, tilting his head in confusion, his eyes wide with curiosity and his heart filled with a quiet determination.

Nami sighed, a hint of admiration in her voice. "She's always so mysterious. I guess she had her plans," she mused, her mind pondering Robin's enigmatic nature and her heart filled with quiet respect.

Vivi crossed her arms, and her suspicion was evident. "I don't know... We should be careful. We still don't know much about her true intentions," she cautioned, her voice filled with a mix of trust and wariness, her heart torn between loyalty and doubt.

Sanji, though still concerned, nodded in agreement. "Alright, let's trust her judgment, but stay alert. I'll head out for supplies and be back as soon as I can," he said, his resolve firm and his heart filled with determination.

With that, Sanji prepared to leave, while Nami, Vivi, and Karoo stayed vigilant on the ship, keeping an eye out for any unexpected developments and pondering Robin's sudden disappearance, their hearts filled with a quiet resolve.

Deep in the jungle, the atmosphere was tense as Mr. 2, Mr. 5, and Miss Valentine met with Mr. 3 and Miss Goldenweek. The dense foliage and towering trees provided a secluded backdrop for their clandestine meeting, a hidden stage set for a confrontation that would shape the fate of the Straw Hats.

Mr. 2 struck a dramatic pose, his flamboyant nature clashing with Mr. 3's more reserved demeanor. Miss Goldenweek remained silent, her paintbrush poised, ready to manipulate emotions with a stroke. Tensions rose as Mr. 2 took charge, much to Mr. 3's annoyance, a clash of personalities that mirrored the conflict to come.

Mr. 2 struck a dramatic pose. "Listen up, darlings! We're here to capture the Straw Hats, and I expect nothing less than perfection!"

Mr. 3 rolled his eyes. "Could you be any louder? I think there's a deaf person on the other side of the island who didn't quite hear you."

Miss Goldenweek silently painted a small sign that read "Volume Control Needed" and held it up.

Mr. 5 leaned against a tree, picking his nose. "Wake me up when the actual plan starts."

Miss Valentine twirled her umbrella. "Oh come on, boys. Don't be such party poopers!"

Mr. 2 clapped his hands. "Now, let's discuss our fabulous plan. First, we'll dazzle them with our charm!"

Mr. 3 muttered, "We're doomed."

After his sparring match with the giants, Luffy, Zoro, and Usopp took a break, sitting on the soft grass as they discussed the giants' strengths and how they could improve. The sun was beginning to set, casting a warm glow over the island and creating a serene atmosphere, a moment of peace in a world of chaos.

"So, what do you think I should work on?" Luffy asked with a curious tone, his eyes wide with eagerness and determination, a thirst for knowledge and growth.

"Well, your Haki is at a good level in this water," Dorry said, his voice deep and resonant, with Brogy nodding in agreement. "But your physical strength needs work. Using those techniques drains you a lot, and you can barely stand after a little spar," he advised, his tone both gentle and firm, a mentor guiding his student.

Zoro looked at Luffy with a knowing expression, his eyes filled with understanding and camaraderie. "You heard them, Luffy. Time to train harder," he said, his voice steady and encouraging, a brother in arms offering support.

Dorry turned his attention to Zoro, observing the swordsman with a keen eye and a sense of respect. "You, swordsman, have a strong spirit. But remember, strength is not just about power. It's about precision and timing. Your swords are an extension of yourself. Master them, and you'll find your true strength," he advised, his voice filled with wisdom and experience, a sage imparting his knowledge.

Zoro nodded, taking the advice to heart. "I understand. I'll keep honing my skills," he replied, his voice filled with determination and resolve, a warrior on the path to mastery.

Brogy then looked at Usopp, who was still deep in thought, his mind a whirl of inspiration and determination. "And you, a little warrior with the slingshot. Courage is your greatest weapon. Never underestimate the power of your mind and your heart. Strategy and bravery can turn the tide of any battle," he advised, his voice filled with encouragement and admiration, a hero inspiring the next generation.

Usopp felt a surge of confidence from Brogy's words, his heart swelling with pride and determination. "Thank you! I'll make sure to use my skills to support my friends," he replied, his voice filled with gratitude and resolve, a promise to himself and his crew.

Usopp watched the exchange with admiration for his idols. He looked at Luffy with determination, understanding why Luffy kept pushing himself to protect the crew. Seeing Luffy's strength and his desire to become even more powerful inspired Usopp. He realized that while he might never rival the likes of Luffy, Zoro, and Sanji, he could strive to support them to the best of his ability, a pillar of strength in the storm of life.

This resolve kept him awake many nights, as his worst nightmare was becoming a burden to the crew. Now, he finally found his answer: he was the Straw Hat sniper, and he would do everything he could to be useful, a beacon of hope in the darkness.

The sun was beginning to set, casting a warm glow over the island. The air was filled with the sounds of the jungle, creating a serene atmosphere as the trio reflected on the giants' advice, a moment of clarity in the chaos of the world.

The giants' wisdom resonated with the trio, each taking the advice to heart. Luffy, Zoro, and Usopp felt a renewed sense of purpose and determination, ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead, a band of brothers united in their quest.

On the other side of the island, Sanji moved swiftly through the jungle, gathering supplies. Suddenly, the Baroque Works agents launched a surprise attack. Sanji dodged and countered with skill, but his hesitation to strike Miss Valentine and Miss Goldenweek gave them an advantage. Miss Goldenweek's Cooler Blue paint manipulated his emotions, leaving him vulnerable. I can't let them win, Sanji thought, struggling to fight back as his vision blurred, a warrior caught in the web of his chivalry.

The battle was intense, the air filled with the sounds of clashing and the rustling of leaves. Sanji, having learned basic Haki, managed to hold his ground initially. He skillfully dodged attacks and countered with his own, his movements fluid and precise, a dance of death in the heart of the jungle. He took down Mr. 5 with ease, his kicks swift and powerful, a testament to his skill and determination. However, his chivalrous nature made him hesitate to strike Miss Valentine and Miss Goldenweek, giving them an advantage, a weakness in his armor of honor.

The jungle was alive with the sounds of battle, the rustling leaves and distant animal calls creating a chaotic backdrop, a symphony of conflict and chaos. Despite his inner struggle to fight back, his consciousness slip away under the relentless assault, his vision blurring and his strength waning, a hero brought low by his own heart. Sanji fell unconscious, the agents stood over him, ready to execute their plan, a shadow over the light of hope.

As the agents stood around Sanji's unconscious body, Mr. 3 spoke up, trying to sound impressive. "The plan can now start. This one was tough, and he isn't even the captain. But no matter how strong they are, they won't be ready for you."

Mr. 2 nodded, then suddenly burst into an exaggerated ballet pose. "It's the Okama way!" he declared, pirouetting on one foot. "We'll dazzle them with our fabulous moves and stunning beauty!"

Miss Valentine couldn't help but giggle. "Mr. 2, your tutu is showing."

Mr. 2 looked down in horror, realizing he had accidentally transformed part of his outfit. "Oh my! How embarrassing!" he exclaimed, quickly changing back.

Mr. 5 rolled his eyes. "Can we focus on the mission? Or should I expect a dance number next?"

"Ooh, a dance number! What a splendid idea!" Mr. 2 clapped his hands excitedly.

Mr. 3 facepalmed. "This is why I work alone," he muttered.

Meanwhile, Robin had discovered a house made of wax deep in the jungle. As she peered inside, she saw a table with a tea set and a sign that read "Mr. 3's Super Secret Evil Lair (No Pirates Allowed!)".

"Well, that's subtle," Robin chuckled to herself, settling in to wait for more information.

The jungle remained eerily silent, save for the distant sound of Mr. 2 humming a show tune, setting the stage for the next phase of the Baroque Works' not-so-secret scheme.

As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting long shadows across the island, the Straw Hat crew found themselves scattered and facing unexpected challenges.

Robin crouched in the shadows near Mr. 3's wax house, her keen eyes scanning for any movement. As she waited, she reflected on her position within the crew and her own goals.

"I need to be careful," she thought. "If I'm discovered, it could jeopardize everything."

Suddenly, she heard footsteps approaching. Robin quickly sprouted eyes and ears around the area, gathering information while remaining hidden.

Mr. 3 and Miss Goldenweek entered the clearing, discussing their plans in hushed tones.

"The Straw Hats won't know what hit them," Mr. 3 chuckled. "With your color trap and my wax abilities, we'll have them trapped in no time."

"And don't forget my fabulous disguises!" Mr. 2 chimed in, striking a pose. "They'll be so dazzled by my performances, they won't know which way is up!"

Robin's eyes widened. She didn't expect Mr.2 to be here, but she couldn't risk blowing her cover. As the Baroque Works agents entered the wax house, Robin silently, spied on them to see what their plan was, she worried about her new company but this could work as a test to see how cable they all are.

Back on the Going Merry, Nami, Vivi, and Karoo kept a vigilant watch, their nerves on edge as they waited for news from their crewmates. The ship creaked gently in the waves, a reminder of their vulnerability in this strange land.

Nami and Vivi stood at the railing, gazing out at the starry sky. The gentle lapping of waves against the hull created a peaceful atmosphere.

"Nami," Vivi said softly, "do you think we'll be able to save my country?"

Nami turned to her friend, a reassuring smile on her face. "Of course we will. Have you seen how stubborn Luffy is? He won't give up until we succeed."

Vivi chuckled, but her eyes remained worried. "I just can't help but think about all the people suffering while we're here."

Nami placed a comforting hand on Vivi's shoulder. "I know it's hard, but remember, we're getting stronger every day. When we face Crocodile, we'll be ready."

Vivi nodded, drawing strength from Nami's words. "You're right. Thank you, Nami."

As they stood there, a shooting star streaked across the sky. Both girls closed their eyes, making a silent wish for the safety of Alabasta and their friends.

"Sanji's been gone for a while now," Nami muttered, her brow furrowed with concern. "I hope he hasn't run into any trouble."

Vivi nodded, her eyes scanning the shoreline. "And we still don't know where Robin went. This island... it feels like it's hiding secrets."

Karoo quacked in agreement, ruffling his feathers nervously.

Meanwhile, deep in the jungle, Dorry and Brogy invited the trio to join them for dinner. They gathered around a massive bonfire, the flames casting dancing shadows across their faces.

Luffy's eyes sparkled at the sight of the enormous chunks of meat roasting over the fire. "Wow! That's a lot of meat!"

"GABABABABA!" Dorry laughed. "Eat up, little ones! You need your strength!"

As they ate, Brogy regaled them with tales of their adventures on the Grand Line. Usopp listened intently, his imagination running wild with each story.

"And then," Brogy boomed, "we faced a Sea King as big as an island!"

Usopp's jaw dropped. "R-really? How did you defeat it?"

"With one punch!" Dorry exclaimed, demonstrating with a swing of his massive fist.

Zoro smirked, taking a swig from his mug. "Impressive. I'd like to test my blades against something like that someday."

Luffy, his mouth full of meat, mumbled excitedly, "Mmmph! Sounds like fun!"

As the night wore on, the group shared stories and laughter, forging a bond of friendship that transcended their differences in size and strength.

Luffy, Zoro, and Usopp are camped with the giants, their snores echoing through the jungle. Sanji remains unconscious, held captive by the Baroque Works agents. Robin stealthily still tracks the agent to see what their plan are, her mind heavy with knowing Mr.2 is here as it is different from what luffy said, and this has two possibilities one luffy lied, and second, luffy knows the future and he changes to much already.

On the Going Merry, Nami and Vivi retire to their quarters, while Karoo keeps watch.

The island of Little Garden sleeps, but the air is thick with anticipation. Tomorrow will bring new challenges and adventures for the Straw Hat crew, as they continue their journey towards Alabasta and beyond.