Blue arcs of electricity crackled around Nicholas, making the air sizzle and pop. A faint smile was visible on his face.
Nicholas's sudden appearance made Zephyr frown. Although Sengoku had mentioned that Nicholas was different from other pirates, to Zephyr, a pirate was still a pirate. Their stances could never align.
Zephyr didn't recognize the name "Jiraiya" mentioned by Nicholas, but he knew Nicholas was addressing him.
Bang!
After landing another punch on Weevil, Zephyr looked at Nicholas with a serious expression.
"Thunder God Nicholas, what do you want!?"
"Relax, I have no interest in your navy that's just entered the New World. I was passing by, saw the fight, and got curious. If you don't need help, I'll just watch and then leave."
Nicholas spoke sincerely. If Zephyr needed help, he wouldn't mind taking Weevil's head as a gift for Zephyr. After all, he had fond memories of Jiraiya.
Zephyr's frown deepened. He couldn't believe the words of this pirate.
The surrounding marines were also more vigilant. The Thunder God in front of them didn't seem very smart, and a powerful yet unintelligent individual was incredibly dangerous.
Nicholas's reputation had grown with his recent exploits, making the marines instinctively view him as a terrifying enemy.
Seeing the marines' wary expressions and Zephyr's cautious stance, Nicholas felt a bit helpless. Although he had partial omniscience, the pirates in this world didn't, making it hard for them to discern friend from foe.
[AN-Due to being a transmigrator and merging with the world when in his awakened form.]
Even Sengoku, who had shared much information, was undoubtedly wary of him.
"Nicholas, it's me, Bakkin! Remember our glorious days in the Rocks Pirates?"
With Nicholas's arrival, Bakkin clung to hope, calling out to him. If they could gain his help, the battle would turn in their favor.
"Oh, Bakkin. 200 million volts, God's Judgment!"
Nicholas's indifferent gaze made Bakkin realize the danger. Before she could say more, a bolt of lightning struck, engulfing her in blinding light.
"Mom!"
Just standing up, Weevil saw Bakkin being struck and went berserk. He charged at Nicholas, swinging his naginata with terrifying force.
Each step shook the deck, and the air was filled with his immense power. The naginata he dragged along the ground was charged with lethal energy.
A roaring sound echoed as a ferocious lightning dragon formed in front of Nicholas, rushing at Weevil. In an instant, the lightning dragon swallowed him whole.
"Roar, I'll kill you!"
With a roar, Weevil broke free from the lightning. His hair stood on end like a Super Saiyan, crackling with electricity, though his appearance ensured he'd never be mistaken for one.
"I really don't know how Bakkin created you! You're like a wild beast."
Nicholas remarked, seeing the breathless yet more imposing Weevil.
Zephyr, seeing Weevil and Nicholas fight, was pleased. He even ordered some marines to seize Weevil's ship, planning to transfer if their battleship was damaged.
Weevil charged at Nicholas again, but when he struck, Nicholas turned into a flash of lightning and disappeared.
"Stop running! Let me cut you down!"
Weevil shouted, slashing at where Nicholas reappeared. His attack cleaved through the ship's cabin, leaving a massive gash.
Zephyr's eyes narrowed. Nicholas wasn't trying hard. At this rate, their ship would be destroyed, leaving Weevil unscathed.
Zephyr sprang into action, sending Weevil flying again.
"You bastards!"
Weevil roared in frustration. Both Nicholas and Zephyr were giving him a rare feeling of defeat, turning his frustration into rage.
"Stupid son, let's go! These two aren't opponents you can handle!"
Bakkin, electrocuted earlier, suddenly jumped up and landed on Weevil's back.
"But, Mom..."
Weevil protested.
"No buts. You're no match for them now. But once you get your father's Devil Fruit, you can defeat them!"
Bakkin, sensing Weevil's mood, used this to persuade him.
"Alright, Mom."
Weevil crouched and prepared to leap away.
"You think you can escape so easily after offending me? Iron Fist: Mountain Crusher!"
Zephyr's powerful punch sent ripples through the air. Weevil, just about to take off, was struck hard, blood gushing from his nose and mouth.
But the force of the blow sent Weevil flying into the sea.
On the ship, Zephyr watched Weevil fall into the water. Given the injuries he sustained and the treacherous New World waters, he doubted Weevil would survive.
Zephyr turned his gaze to Nicholas, eyes narrowing in seriousness. Nicholas was far more dangerous than Weevil or Bakkin.
The marines were also tense, knowing Nicholas's fearsome reputation. Was the NEO Navy about to clash with the Thunder God Nicholas?
Despite their numbers, battles at sea were decided by the strength of individuals, not numbers.
Finally, Zephyr raised his hand.
"Everyone, return to your posts!"
The marines, though confused, obeyed Zephyr's command, clearing the deck for him and Nicholas.
Once the deck was clear, Zephyr looked back at Nicholas, studying him intently.