Originally, Daniel intended to find Robin to show her the Poneglyph he had just brought back from the sky island. However, when he arrived at the office in Rain Dinners, he unexpectedly encountered an unusual guest: Admiral Aokiji.
At that moment, Aokiji was leisurely sitting on a sofa, his blindfold covering his eyes, seemingly asleep. Opposite him stood a trembling Robin, her eyes filled with fear. It was unclear whether her terror stemmed from the sheer presence of the Admiral or something else. In this world, the title of Admiral carried a weight similar to that of the Four Emperors, and few were ignorant of its significance.
Seeing Admiral Aokiji, Daniel gave Robin a reassuring look before calmly sitting opposite the Admiral. Daniel was well aware of the strength an Admiral possessed; he was not as naive about power as Luffy and his friends.
"This guy has always been protecting Robin, but unfortunately, she fears him the most." Aokiji's actions, known only to him, were hidden from Robin, who only saw him as the man who had frozen her best friend before relentlessly pursuing her.
"Aren't you quite the intimidating figure, Admiral? My secretary is scared stiff," Daniel remarked after observing Aokiji.
Simultaneously, he pondered why Aokiji had come here.
"You just got back?" Aokiji finally removed his blindfold, giving Robin a brief glance before focusing on Daniel.
"Was this guy using Kenbunshoku Haki to observe his surroundings the whole time?" As an Admiral, even though Aokiji primarily relied on his Devil Fruit abilities in battle and seldom showcased his physical prowess, Daniel wouldn't underestimate his mastery of Busoshoku and Kenbunshoku Haki. With an Admiral's level of strength, Aokiji could easily cover Rainbase with his Haki even if he had been sleeping. If he had been using Haki to monitor his surroundings, Daniel's sudden appearance might lead Aokiji to suspect spatial abilities.
"Yes, I had some matters to handle outside," Daniel responded nonchalantly about the potential exposure of his spatial abilities. He didn't mind too much, as it was bound to happen eventually.
"Do you even know who your secretary is?" Aokiji asked, his gaze shifting back to Robin, causing her to shiver again.
"I know very well who she is, the survivor of Ohara, who has been on the run since she was young due to some people's actions. But she can rest easy now because here, she is absolutely safe."
Daniel's words stunned Robin. For years, she had never heard anyone talk about protecting her. Most people who associated with her did so to exploit her knowledge or abilities.
"Do you really think your mere Shichibukai status can protect her? Do you even know who she's involved with?" Aokiji's tone turned icy, and an imposing aura filled the room.
Robin's identity was crucial. If not for Aokiji's covert protection, she might have been captured long ago.
"I am well aware of who she's involved with. But under my protection, no one can harm her," Daniel declared, his gaze hardening.
Worst case, he could take Robin and leave this world. He didn't believe the World Government, Celestial Dragons, or Imu could chase them across dimensions.
"You seem quite confident." Aokiji's voice turned cold as wisps of icy air emerged from him, quickly freezing the glass table between them and extending towards Daniel.
"Does this guy have issues?" Daniel thought, somewhat speechless. Although he suspected this might be Aokiji's way of testing him, similar to how he tested Luffy and his friends, Crocodile didn't seem to face such trials. Why the double standard? He could have come in a few years.
"Are you implying the Navy intends to attack a Shichibukai?" Daniel asked, placing his right hand on the frozen table. Instantly, the ice vanished, turned into air by his alchemy.
He couldn't freeze the entire sea like Aokiji, but reversing a small area and a glass table was well within his capabilities.
Seeing the ice disappear instantly, Aokiji's eyes showed a hint of seriousness. But he didn't attack further, possibly due to Daniel's words about the Navy attacking a Shichibukai or Daniel's displayed strength.
"Regardless of her past, Robin is now under a Shichibukai's protection. I remember the rights of a Shichibukai." Pirates under a Shichibukai's banner had their bounties revoked once they gained the status. This authority was granted by the World Government, and as long as it wasn't revoked, the Navy couldn't act against them.
After serving as a Shichibukai for some time, Daniel understood how the balance was maintained among the Navy, Shichibukai, and the Four Emperors. The Shichibukai system wasn't just a measure against pirates; it was also a restriction on the Navy. The Navy, as a unified force, could easily gather most of its strength to crush a single Yonko crew. If the Shichibukai didn't act as a balance, the Navy could, with determination, annihilate a Yonko crew.
In the War of the Best, only Admiral Akainu fought with all his might against Whitebeard. Despite Whitebeard's old age and injuries, the Navy had two Admirals holding back, a Hero of the Navy, a Fleet Admiral, and several Admiral candidates. This world remained in chaos because it suited the World Government or the Celestial Dragons. A unified sea would inevitably challenge their authority.
If someone unified the sea, the next target would undoubtedly be the Celestial Dragons. No ruler would tolerate someone above them.
Similarly, if the Navy eliminated most threats, the World Government would struggle to control them like watchdogs.
This seemed like a classic "keep your enemies closer" strategy, but on a global scale. Otherwise, with the World Government and Navy's power, the seas wouldn't have remained chaotic for 800 years.
Given this world, Daniel couldn't understand why Roger helped the Navy and World Government against the legendary pirate Rocks. In his view, Rocks ruling the world might be better than the Celestial Dragons. Without addressing the root issues, the Navy's justice was a farce. Even saving countless people wouldn't fundamentally change this world.
Though Daniel despised the Shichibukai system, he acknowledged the benefits it brought him. As long as the World Government didn't revoke his status, the Navy wouldn't dare act against him, despite their discontent with the Shichibukai system.
"I'm just passing through. Things have certainly changed since Crocodile was here," Aokiji said, returning to his usual lazy demeanor as if the earlier tension had never happened.
"Of course," Daniel replied.
Despite claiming not to interfere much with Alabasta, it was impossible for him to be completely hands-off. His influence had already brought significant changes to the kingdom.
Firstly, Crocodile, to build his reputation, had allowed or even hired pirates to cause trouble. But Daniel would not permit that. Although pirates on the Grand Line were formidable, most couldn't withstand gunfire, let alone his subordinates with Devil Fruit abilities.
After eliminating many troublemaking pirates, the port city of Nanohana rarely saw disturbances. Alabasta was also undergoing reforms, thanks to Daniel's suggestions. The kingdom was modernizing its commerce and industry, and utilizing unique local creatures like the Supersonic Duck Squadron and Running Lizards for tasks like deliveries.
Rain Dinners also saw changes. While it still catered to pirates, Daniel enforced strict no-fighting rules, unlike Crocodile.
"Why is Admiral Aokiji here?" News of Aokiji's presence in Rainbase spread quickly, causing many pirates to leave, reducing the city's population by over 40%.
If it were still Crocodile's Rainbase, the exodus would have been closer to 70%.
"How long do you plan to stay here? At this rate, my business will suffer," Daniel remarked, exasperated by the impact of Aokiji's presence. Yet he couldn't just kick him out.
Robin, though still tense around Aokiji, was less terrified than before, perhaps due to Daniel's earlier reassurances.
"I understand. I'll leave now," Aokiji finally said, standing up. He wasn't leaving because of Daniel's words but because his superior had called about an incident somewhere.
After becoming a Shichibukai, Daniel realized how insignificant that status was in the grand scheme. Apart from a few like Mihawk, Doflamingo, and Kuma, most Shichibukai were easily replaceable. The New World's countless powerful pirates, many who survived clashes with the Yonko, were far stronger than most Shichibukai.
Every year, the Supernovas emerged, with over half perishing in the New World. Those who survived had the potential to become great pirates.
"That Ace guy is really making a name for himself," Daniel mused, glancing at the latest wanted poster. Ace had the highest bounty among the seven Supernovas this year. According to reports, he had caused significant damage to the Navy using his Mera Mera no Mi powers, destroying numerous warships.
Under Robin's leadership, Baroque Works had further developed, extending its influence beyond the first half of the Grand Line to the Sabaody Archipelago. Unlike Crocodile, who had abandoned his intelligence networks in the New World after being defeated by Whitebeard, Daniel intended to expand his reach.
He planned to visit Caesar's island to understand the manufacturing of artificial Devil Fruits. If possible, he would anonymously tip off the Navy to destroy the operation, causing trouble for Doflamingo.
For now, Doflamingo and Kaido were too formidable for Daniel to confront directly.
"This is the Poneglyph from the sky island." Leaning against a
large stone block in the underground base, Robin was visibly excited. Daniel's earlier words to Aokiji had seemingly changed her attitude towards him, shifting from a superior-subordinate relationship to something more.
"Ace, what are you thinking?" Ace's rise to fame troubled Vice Admiral Garp, who had hoped his grandsons would become Marines. Preoccupied with work, he had failed to notice both Luffy and Ace being influenced to become pirates. Luffy, inspired by Shanks, wanted to be the Pirate King, much to Garp's dismay. Ace, who had once despised pirates, becoming one left Garp speechless.
"I hope his identity remains a secret," Garp could only pray.
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"This Ace really can't stay out of trouble. I've been here long enough; should I return now or stay until I've reached the level of a Yonko before going back?"
As Daniel read the newspaper articles about Ace causing chaos in the New World, he began to ponder. The world of pirates was never short on news: pirates defeating naval forces, seizing islands, the navy capturing pirates, Supernovas challenging the Yonko, and more. However, these events had little to do with Daniel, who stayed within the Alabasta Kingdom. Though curious about the New World, he was unlike Luffy and wouldn't recklessly venture there without sufficient strength.
"Reaching Yonko-level strength would take too long. Instead of staying here, I might as well explore other worlds."
While the power level in the One Piece world was high, the vast universe contained realms with even higher power levels. Achieving Yonko strength here might be easier to surpass in another world.
"Should I take Robin back with me?" With his decision to return made, Daniel began preparing to bring back some unique items from this world, such as Sea Kings' meat. This highly nutritious meat could enhance physical strength significantly, even surpassing the dragon meat from the Harry Potter world. Consuming it regularly would greatly improve one's physique.
Take the Celestial Dragons, for example. Despite their weaknesses, their physical strength was evident, as shown when one survived a furious punch from Luffy. Even Nami, without martial skills, had an impressive physical foundation. After Law's heart-switching operation with Sanji, Sanji could use Nami's body for some martial arts, although it left Nami sore afterward, highlighting her physical capabilities.
For national athletes, regularly consuming such meat would make breaking Olympic records easy.
"You're leaving this world? What do you mean?" In the underground base in Rainbase, Robin looked puzzled by Daniel's sudden announcement. Even in the Marvel world, not everyone would understand such a statement immediately.
"It's simple." Daniel explained using the magic of Kamar-Taj to illustrate the concept of the multiverse and the infinite cosmos.
"So, you're not from this world?" Despite being one of the few in this world with advanced knowledge, Robin still struggled to grasp everything Daniel said, ultimately understanding that he wasn't from this world.
"That's correct. Are you interested in seeing it?"
"What about here?" Robin was curious about the other world but worried about what would happen if she and Daniel left Rainbase.
"Others can manage for now. We won't be gone forever. But before that, you need to learn about my world's norms. Red Queen." At Daniel's command, a small girl in a red dress appeared beside them.
"Show her the basics of Earth and things to be cautious about."
"Understood, sir. Miss Robin, this way, please."
"So this is another world?" On Earth, at Daniel's private base, Robin, having removed her Ant-Man suit, looked around with curiosity. Despite Red Queen's virtual briefing, the real thing was quite different.
"This is my private planet. It's a bit barren." Daniel took her to the top floor and introduced the planet through the window.
"Why become a mere Shichibukai with your abilities?"
"Just to see the scenery of different worlds. We'll discuss this later. In my world, identity is crucial, so you'll need to adopt one." Bringing Robin suddenly without a trace would likely cause Fury to become paranoid. Therefore, Daniel planned to give her a Chinese identity and arrange for her to fly to New York. SHIELD's influence in China was minimal, making it hard to verify her identity, and the Chinese authorities wouldn't pay much attention to a citizen abroad.
After explaining his plans, Daniel opened a portal back to his villa and had Red Queen create a legitimate new identity for Robin. For ordinary people, this would be difficult, but for Daniel, it was simple.
"Take this chance to explore a bit." Handing Robin her identification, a black card, and a specially made phone, Daniel suggested.
"You're treating me so well. Are you interested in me?" Robin teased, smiling as she took the items. Compared to her time in the One Piece world, she seemed unusually relaxed and even flirted with Daniel.
Ahem.
Robin's words left Daniel momentarily speechless. Denying it would be insincere, but he genuinely pitied her. In the One Piece world, Robin never had a peaceful night's sleep. Constantly living on the run had made her hyper-vigilant, always sleeping with a weapon nearby.
"Are you leaving now, or staying a few days?" Daniel quickly changed the subject, trying to deflect from Robin's teasing.
"Now, as you suggested, it's a good chance to rest."
"Alright, I'll send you over. Remember, this world has many cameras, so avoid using your abilities publicly." After opening a golden portal, Daniel reminded her.
"Don't worry, I'll be careful." Robin touched Daniel's cheek with a playful smile before stepping through the portal.
"Sigh, in bringing her over, I forgot about Ada. This might be tricky. Oh well, I'll take it one step at a time."
After Robin left, Daniel realized a significant oversight. However, he decided to address it later. While monogamy was a virtue, Daniel found himself desiring both women, a common dream for many men.
He wasn't worried about Robin adapting to modern society. Besides her recent education from Red Queen, her survival experience on the run in the pirate world was more than enough to thrive here.
Although Aokiji had protected Robin, he couldn't always be there. Her survival was largely due to her own capabilities.
"Perfect timing. I was looking for you. Let's have a fight." At Tony Stark's seaside mansion, Stark excitedly greeted Daniel upon his arrival.
"Have you finally finished your anti-sorcerer armor?" As Iron Man, Stark's greatest passion was developing various anti-series armors, like the anti-Hulk armor and anti-sorcerer armor.
Banner had often expressed displeasure with Stark's anti-Hulk armor, but Daniel wasn't concerned. In his view, Stark's anti-series armors were generally ineffective. The so-called anti-Hulk armor would be torn apart by Hulk in a real fight.
Hulk's strength, in the pirate world, would be at least Yonko level. His combat and destructive power aside, his physical resilience was undoubtedly on par with the Yonko, similar to Big Mom.
Compared to a certain hero in a black bat suit, Stark was much better. Stark's anti-series armors targeted various threats without inadvertently benefiting villains. Stark's armors, at least, didn't fall into the wrong hands.
"Yes, it's this one. Let's test it out." Stark pointed to a gold and red suit of armor, preparing to wear it.
"No need to test. You can't beat me." Daniel said, his right hand enveloped in translucent Haki, and punched the armor's chest.
Boom.
The mansion shook for a while before settling. The chest of the anti-sorcerer armor was dented but not shattered.
"What?" Stark's eyes widened at the dent. He knew the armor's chest was made of extremely durable materials, designed to withstand a direct hit from his micro-missiles without such damage.
"Your body is too weak. The armor might be strong, but can your body inside withstand such attacks?"
"Are all sorcerers like this now?" Stark muttered, holding the damaged armor.
"Don't equate movie sorcerers with reality." Daniel shook his head slightly. If Stark saw the battle-ready sorcerers of Kamar-Taj, he'd be even more shocked. Unlike traditional sorcerers, Kamar-Taj sorcerers often engaged in physical combat.
"I'll definitely develop a true anti-sorcerer armor." Despite the setback, Stark quickly recovered his resolve.
"Let's not dwell on that. I've brought something to enhance physical strength." Daniel's main purpose was to deliver Sea Kings' meat to Stark.
"Don't spread this around. I don't have much." Though Daniel had plenty of Sea Kings' meat, he wanted to ensure Stark wouldn't waste or give it away.
"Really taking a trip, huh?" Daniel smiled, shaking his head slightly at a photo from Robin showing her at the Great Wall. Instead of flying to the US, Robin had decided to tour China first.
"Ada seems busy lately too."
As Daniel mused, Red Queen sent him a video.
"Is it starting?" Seeing Dr. Selvig running naked from the police, Daniel knew the event was imminent.
Ever since Thor had returned to Asgard with Loki, Daniel had Red Queen monitor Thor's girlfriend, Jane, and Dr. Selvig. Jane was connected to the Reality Stone, while Selvig seemed to have discovered the Nine Realms' alignment.
Without knowing the exact timing, Daniel had to monitor them for relevant information. Selvig's words to the police indicated the Nine Realms' alignment was near.
Though unethical, this monitoring was necessary to prevent future problems.
"Couldn't Selvig just talk normally? Running around naked is indecent." With this thought, Daniel opened a portal to England.
"Jane, it's here." At an abandoned building, Jane's assistant, Darcy, arrived with another assistant carrying a detection device.
"Room." After Jane's group entered the building, Daniel expanded his Ope Ope no Mi abilities to cover the entire structure.
"Here?" While Jane's group conducted their gravity and spatial anomaly tests, Daniel found a node and stepped inside.
His true purpose was to acquire the Aether, or Reality Stone, before Jane. With three Infinity Stones, he'd be significantly more powerful.
"This place... impossible?" Daniel found himself in a cold, mountainous region, surrounded by towering blue figures. Realizing he was in Jotunheim, the land of the Frost Giants, Daniel immediately opened a golden portal to avoid
confrontation.
"Jane, where are you?" Returning through the portal, Daniel heard Darcy calling for Jane.
"Is this her fate? Time for Plan B." Failing to get the Reality Stone first, Daniel was frustrated, knowing he couldn't obtain it soon.
Frustrated, he called a familiar number.
"It's rare to hear from you. What's up?"
"Prepare for battle."
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