Chapter 68: Water 7With Chopper’s help, the frozen soldiers on the ship were rapidly thawed out. While it would take some time for them to make a full recovery, they were alright. That’s all for now... You should get some rest!” Upon hearing Chopper’s advice, Saitama nodded and said, “Thanks, little reindeer.” “What?!” Chopper was surprised. “First time someone guessed right! Can’t you see I look like a fox!?” Saitama almost closed his eyes and moved his hand. “Uh! No! You’re reindeer...” “Wow!” Chopper quickly held onto Saitama’s leg, tears in his eyes. “You’re really my friend!” “Uh!...” Saitama blinked, seeming a bit confused. “You don’t have to be so emotional about it...” Nami joined in with a grin, teasing, “Looks like Chopper’s a fan of yours, Mr. Saitama.” Walking next to them, she asked, “So, what’s the plan now? There are a hundred people on this ship. Leaving them alone isn’t a good idea. They need medical attention. At least for a while!” “True...” Saitama scratched his head, looking unsure. “Cooking and sailing aren’t exactly my skills.” “In that case...” Her smile widened as she held Saitama’s hands. “I’ll take care of steering this ship for now. We’ll sail alongside Merry Go to the next island. Sanji will cook for everyone, and if your crew needs help, Chopper can assist. What do you think, Mr. Saitama?” Chopper let go of Saitama’s leg and patted his own chest. “I’m in!” Saitama simply nodded, “Whatever! Don’t forget about the others.” “Who?” She asked. “The strange pirate ship!” At the same time, Sanji came over with sweets, and when he noticed Nami holding Saitama’s hand, he got really mad and jumped in. “Are you kidding me, Baldy? This is unacceptable! Let go of her!” He was clearly furious seeing Nami holding onto Saitama’s arm. “But...” Saitama barely had a chance to reply before Nami’s face turned angry. “Sanji, shut up!” She squeezed Saitama’s arm tightly and said sternly, “Mr. Saitama and his crew are our guests. Treat them nicely, and you’re in charge of meals, got it?” She then gave him a flirty look, “Don’t make me sad!” After that, she blew a kiss in his direction. -Thump!- In an instant, Sanji’s expression transformed. Hearts filled his eyes, and a nosebleed gushed out in excitement. “Right away! ~~” Saitama was utterly puzzled, muttering to himself, “What’s wrong with these people?” ————————- With Usopp standing beside him, Chopper wholeheartedly took on the task of thawing out the frozen Foxy Pirates. In the midst of this dire crisis, Sanji’s culinary expertise came to the forefront as he labored to prepare a substantial meal that could nurse them back to health. However, a light-hearted challenge presented itself. Luffy couldn’t resist sneaking a piece of food whenever he thought nobody was watching. Later that night, Luffy and Zoro collaborated on a clever plan. They skillfully freed ‘Sexy Foxy’ from captivity without arousing even a hint of suspicion from the marine soldiers. When they returned, everything seemed normal and super relaxed... As if nothing special had actually happened! ————————- And so, the Merry Go and Saitama’s ship set their course for the next island, the ocean breeze ruffling their sails. They maintained a distance between them. This intentional separation gave the illusion that the Marines were in hot pursuit of the pirate crews, even though the reality was quite different. Nami had meticulously crafted this plan, considering every detail. In his role as Vice Admiral, it was paramount to avoid any appearance of collusion with pirates. While it might not faze him, it had the potential to tarnish his reputation. And that’s precisely what endeared people to him. Throughout the journey, Sanji made regular visits to one of the ship’s cabins, showing particular concern for one of the wounded crew members. But Chopper always kicked him out because he was getting in the way. As for Nami, she always stayed in Saitama’s company. But... As Tashigi’s recovery progressed to its final stages, Nami’s visits gradually became less frequent. Women understand each other. Nami could sense that the girl with glasses held an affection for Saitama. Yet, he remained blissfully unaware. And so, Nami discreetly withdrew, sparing her any potential embarrassment. The atmosphere aboard the Merry Go was vibrant with activity; Luffy frequently approached Saitama, bombarding him with his usual array of curious and sometimes silly questions. Strangely, Saitama didn’t seem to mind at all. ————————- “Saitama-san.” Tashigi and Saitama were seated together on Merry Go’s deck, their eyes fixed on the ocean ahead. A touch of concern crept into her voice as she voiced her thoughts, “You think we’re doing the right thing? I mean, Straw Hat pirates seems alright, but let’s not forget they’re wanted pirates. It’s a tricky situation for us, being Navy members and all...” Saitama cradled a cup of tea, projecting a relaxed vibe that rivaled a lounging fish. “What are they wanted for?” “Apparently, they stood up against the tyrant rule of Drum Kingdom,” She mused, taking a moment to gather her thoughts. “Thing is, Drum Island is in cahoots with the World Government, and their king is under their protection. That’s why they have bounties on their heads... And then there’s the talk of their victories against various pirates, including that Marine traitor ‘Gaspade’ with the 95 million bounty for the Ame Ame Fruit power... But there’s no record of them harming civilians...” Saitama gave a thoughtful nod, swirling the tea in his cup. “So they’re the good guys?” She let out a soft chuckle, a smile tugging at her lips. “Seems that way.” “Then why should I arrest them?” Saitama’s empty tea cup found its place on the table. Tashigi smoothly caught his momentary pause. “Actually, you’ve got a point! And, well, they did help us,” she said, glancing down, a trace of embarrassment coloring her cheeks. She added, “I’m thinking we should just keep an eye on them. If any of them cross the line and commit a serious crime, then I’ll step in. Got some extra time on my hands, honestly.” Saitama nodded in a relaxed manner, responding, “Sounds like a plan to me!” With a playful tap on her forehead, he added, “Let’s stick to this for now.” ————————- A few days later. On the horizon, the outline of a city appeared, seemingly suspended above the water. Water 7 – The ‘Capital of Water’ “We’re at that point of saying goodbye,” Nami’s voice held a tinge of sorrow. Standing side by side on the ship decks, the Straw Hat Pirates and the Navy crew exchanged glances. Nami, her posture portraying confidence despite her hidden tears, extended her arm in a farewell gesture towards Saitama and his companions. “Wishing you a safe journey ahead!” Chopper waved his small hooves, interjecting, “Even though you’re recovering, don’t forget to rest up!” Luffy and Usopp were visibly emotional, tears streaming down their faces. Sanji offered a wave of goodbye to Tashigi while Robin sat there with a smile on her face. In contrast, Zoro remained quiet, avoiding direct eye contact. He spoke in a low voice, “Be careful out there.” The sentiment was mutual; some of the soldiers discreetly wiped away tears, trying to maintain their composure. Despite the emotional connection, they were still bound by their roles as soldiers. Though their time together had been short, the experiences they shared had solidified a strong bond, leaving behind memories of intimate moments scattered throughout their journey. -UHM!- “Attention!” Tashigi’s commanding voice cut through the air, and the soldiers on the deck responded with practiced discipline, snapping to attention in a display of unity. “Everyone, Salute!” As one, the soldiers raised their right hands to their temples in a precise salute. “Thank you for being there for us these past few days. This marine unit will never forget you!” Tashigi saluted the Straw Hat pirates. But then she looked serious, “Starting today, we’re back to being enemies. If any of you commit crimes from now on, we’ll be after you. Is that clear?” Luffy’s laughter broke the tension, “Yeah, got it. Shishishishi...” “Rest!” The command was given, and Tashigi shifted her focus to Saitama. Her expression was earnest as she continued, “Sir, I request that you pardon the entire crew and hold me responsible instead.” Saitama looked genuinely puzzled, “Huh? Why?” “I’ve violated Navy code, so I should face the consequences... But I don’t regret it,” she admitted, her gaze dropping. Saitama waved it off, saying, “No need! They’re good guys!” And so, the battleship eased into the harbor of Water 7 to replenish their dwindling supplies. Meanwhile, Merry Go circled discreetly, seeking for a secluded spot to anchor as they sought a shipwright partner. Unbeknownst to them all, On that day, an old friend arrived in the city... Scholar! As night fell, he covertly transmitted a unique assembly signal through the intricate channels of the CP system. ————————- On a night with the moon shining bright, a group of enigmatic figures converged at the pier, anticipation etched on their faces as they awaited the orchestrator of their gathering. “CP9 members. It’s been a long time since we last met...” A man with glasses and a book in his hands approached from a distance. “A decade has elapsed, and it seems that each of you has evolved into dependable operatives. I find myself wondering if you might extend your assistance...” “We’ve all gathered here, putting ourselves at risk of being exposed, all because of your authority...” Stepping forward from the heart of the assembly, a man accompanied by a perched pigeon emitted an unshakable presence. “We’re on a mission from Chief Spandam. Unless absolutely necessary, it’s best to keep our communication limited.” “Rob Lucci... The strongest and cruelest mass killing machine in the history of CP9...” A faintly sarcastic smile tugged at Scholar’s lips. “That title might have inflated your ego, but in my presence, you’re just another piece of shit.” Lucci’s gaze grew sharper, a hint of suppressed reaction, yet he maintained his composure. “I’m the one in charge here!” Scholar’s glasses caught the light as he spoke firmly, “If Spandam’s got a problem, he can deal with me! Neither him nor his father matter!” —————————————————————— Hey everyone, I hope you all had a great time reading this chapter! I’m really excited to hear your thoughts and get your feedback. Don’t forget to drop a comment and let me know what you think! Patreon: Instagram: One Punch Of Justice Otaku Tnn Twitter: Otaku_Tnn Looking forward to catching you in the next chapter! Thanks for your support.
I'm currently Translating: OnePunch Of Justice. If you want to support me and read more chapters please subscribe to my Patreon!