章 48: Chapter 46: Bullet vs. Roger
To commemorate the Roger Pirates' contribution, the islanders spontaneously decided to build a statue of Roger in the Mole Kingdom's capital. Roger's popularity now rivaled, if not surpassed, that of King Mole himself.
After staying for another ten days, ensuring the island's stability, the Roger Pirates prepared to depart.
"Are you really leaving so soon?" King Mole asked, his feelings towards Roger conflicted. On one hand, he wished Roger would stay and help maintain peace. On the other, he feared Roger might threaten his authority.
"Yes. We've been here for over two months. It's time to move on."
"Then I wish you safe travels. The Mole Kingdom will always welcome you."
Catherine was notably absent from the farewells. Perhaps she didn't want to face the pain of Shirakawa's departure.
Just as Roger was about to board the ship, Bullet spoke up. "Roger, let's have a showdown."
The air crackled with tension. Even King Mole was taken aback.
Roger was silent for a moment, then simply said, "Alright."
He turned to the king. "Could you tell us where the nearest deserted island is?"
"Yes, there's one to the south. It's uninhabited. Shall I send someone to guide you?"
"No need. Just tell me the direction."
"It's due south."
"Come with me, Bullet," Roger said, using a technique similar to Skywalk to propel himself towards the south. Even without knowing the island's exact location, his Observation Haki would guide him.
Bullet followed, his bloodlust palpable even from a distance.
"This is going to be good. Let's follow them," Rayleigh said, taking charge in Roger's absence.
They boarded the Oro Jackson and set sail. They had already decided not to return to this island.
"Mr. Rayleigh, do you need us to accompany you?" King Mole asked.
"No need. Just see us off here. The upcoming battle will be too dangerous for you."
As if on cue, a powerful wave of energy swept over them from the south.
"Looks like they've already started. Bullet's impatient, as always," Rayleigh remarked.
"That power... It's terrifying," King Mole stammered. Though he possessed a hint of Conqueror's Haki himself, it was nothing compared to the overwhelming aura of Roger and Bullet.
"You should head back. It's not safe for you here anymore," Rayleigh said, his voice laced with a subtle use of Conqueror's Haki.
King Mole snapped out of his daze. "Thank you, Mr. Rayleigh." He looked towards the south with fear. He hadn't realized the two men he had interacted with were so powerful.
"First Mate, let's hurry! We'll miss the fight if we're late!" Shirakawa said excitedly.
"Don't worry. They won't be finished so soon."
The ship sailed towards the island, Shirakawa and Shanks buzzing with anticipation. Shanks was particularly eager to witness this clash of titans. He adjusted his straw hat, a wide grin on his face.
"You two..." Rayleigh shook his head, amused by their enthusiasm. 'These two are definitely going to cause a lot of trouble in the future.'
If they grew strong enough, they would undoubtedly leave their mark on the world, creating their own legends on the sea.
After an hour, they reached the island. The sounds of battle - explosions, clashes, and roars - filled the air.
Shirakawa was about to take flight, but Rayleigh held him back.
"What are you doing, Rayleigh?" Shirakawa asked, frustrated.
"You're not ready to witness this fight up close. You're still too weak."
"Damn it!" Shirakawa slammed his fist on the ship's railing in frustration. He wasn't even allowed to watch the fight. Rayleigh knew that if Shirakawa got too close, he might get caught in the crossfire and be killed.
Rayleigh patted his shoulder reassuringly. "You'll be strong enough soon."
"I will," Shirakawa said, determination burning in his eyes. With his endless regeneration and unwavering resolve, he knew he would achieve his goals.
Though they couldn't see the details of the battle, Shirakawa and the others kept their eyes glued to the island.
The fight raged on through the night.
"Mr. Rayleigh, is it over yet? Who won?" Shanks asked impatiently the next morning.
"It's over. Roger won," Rayleigh said. Although Bullet was strong, he was still no match for Roger.
As Roger's figure emerged from the island, the battle that had lasted an entire day and night finally concluded.
"Let's go," Roger said, boarding the ship.
"Captain, what about Bullet?" a crew member asked cautiously. The captain had just fought Bullet; perhaps tensions were still high.
"He's left the Roger Pirates."
"What?" The crew exclaimed in surprise.
Meanwhile, on the island, Bullet lay exhausted amidst the devastation, his eyes filled with frustration and tears streaming down his face.
The island was scarred with craters and sword marks, some still radiating faint traces of Haki. It was no longer a safe place for ordinary people. The lingering energy could easily tear them apart.
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