"I'll use you to practice my swordsmanship," Clover said, gripping his sword tightly. A moment later, a low dragon's roar echoed from his body, an ethereal sound that seemed to reach the ears of all around.
In an instant, Clover lunged toward the pirates. They didn't stand a chance. His Black Blade cut through them effortlessly, the force leaving their heads cleanly removed. With Dragon's Roar aimed directly at Saas' neck, Clover executed a move he'd seen Shanks use. Through his modifier's ability, he'd perfected it instantly.
"The first rule of surviving the Grand Line—Busoshoku Haki can defeat Logia users," Clover explained, severing Saas' left arm with a swing of his sword. Saas screamed in agony as his ability activated, dust rising from the ground, preparing to counterattack.
"The second rule—48 million, even 100 million bounties are nothing here," Clover added before decapitating Saas with another strike, ending the battle before the pirate could even use his Devil Fruit.
The entire crew fell silent, awestruck at Clover's strength. Saas' body fell, and with it, the dust dissipated. Mary and Sonia exchanged surprised whispers.
"Didn't they say he had no strength?" Mary muttered.
"That must've been a ruse to attract enemies," Sonia replied. "Think about it—how could anyone escape Mariejois without power?"
Hancock, overwhelmed with admiration, jumped through the pile of fallen pirates, embracing Clover. "You're incredible, my love!" she exclaimed, while the remaining Kuja Pirates exchanged looks of awe.
"Alright, alright, there are too many people watching," Clover said, quickly sheathing his sword and releasing the dragon's roar, concerned that it might harm Hancock.
The surviving pirates, having seen their captain's demise, scrambled back to their ship, hastily retreating. Clover, however, was not done. With a single swing of his sword, he released a powerful air slash that obliterated their ship, leaving no survivors.
As the pirates were dispatched, the townspeople emerged, carrying fruits and food to thank their saviors. However, Clover and the crew boarded their ship and sailed away without indulging in the gratitude.
Unbeknownst to them, a young man in the crowd discovered something among the fruits—a Devil Fruit. Had Clover stayed, he would've recognized it as the Tutu Tutu no Mi, left behind after Saas' death. The young man, unaware of its power, took a bite and immediately recoiled in disgust. "What is this? It tastes awful!" he spat, not realizing the fruit had already begun to affect him.
Back aboard the ship, Clover reflected on his journey. Hancock was an incredible ally, but he couldn't remain complacent. He had come to the world of One Piece to carve his own path. With the modifier's maxed-out learning ability, he had so much potential—so far, he had only learned one move from Shanks.
If he didn't push himself, he would be wasting his talents.
"What's bothering you?" Hancock asked, noticing Clover lost in thought as he gazed at the ceiling.
"Nothing… wait," Clover said, suddenly realizing something. Hancock wasn't just a beautiful Empress; she was a master of the three types of Haki. He could use this opportunity to learn Kenbunshoku Haki and Haoshoku Haki from her.
"Show me your Haki," Clover requested.
"Alright. Hit me," Hancock responded without hesitation.
Clover stood up and lightly slapped her cheek, but immediately, his head buzzed with regret. Hancock had transformed into a lovestruck fool, her face flushed.
"What was that!?" Clover exclaimed, flustered by her reaction. Nami looked on, equally baffled.
"I'm sorry! I couldn't help myself," Hancock said shyly. "Try again, I promise to focus this time."
Clover sighed, realizing how much her feelings for him influenced her actions. "Alright, but let's save your little habits for later," he warned cautiously.
Hancock nodded eagerly. This time, Clover carefully prodded her forehead with his finger. Before his finger could touch her, Hancock had already dodged the attack with fluid precision. Clover tried again, and again she dodged.
The pace quickened, but Hancock avoided each poke with ease. As Clover's attempts grew faster, the sound of the modifier echoed in his mind.
[Ding! Congratulations, Host! You have mastered Kenbunshoku Haki to MAX level!]
Clover's heart surged with excitement. With maxed-out Kenbunshoku Haki, he felt invincible. Few opponents could challenge him now, except for the likes of Yonko commanders or higher.
"Now for Haoshoku Haki—let's see that next," Clover urged, eager to continue his progress.
"Alright, be prepared," Hancock warned.
Clover nodded. "Just release a little."
At Hancock's command, her entire demeanor shifted as a powerful, oppressive aura radiated from her body.
[Ding! Congratulations, Host! You have mastered Haoshoku Haki to MAX level!]