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墨書 Inktalez
Chapter 161: The Dust Settles
"What are the results of your investigation? Are the citizens of Drum Kingdom planning to uphold the agreement? Is there anyone opposed?"
Xiaqiu looked curiously at Heckler, who had just returned after being sent to Drum Kingdom following Bola's victory over Dalton.
"It was even easier for them to accept than you anticipated, President." Heckler shook his head and smiled. "I did some digging. In four battles, Dalton lost decisively each time, demonstrating overwhelming strength that left the people too intimidated to resist. Moreover, Dalton didn't sustain significant injuries in any of the fights. In the last match, Bola refrained from using excessive force despite Dalton's stubbornness, ultimately only knocking him unconscious. This made the people perceive Bola as a merciful Queen."
"Additionally, the medical care, governance philosophy, and Dalton's support have led them to believe that having Bola rule isn't a difficult prospect. Some even look forward to changes in the country," Heckler continued slowly.
Xiaqiu smiled and said, "By showcasing overwhelming strength, they understand that resistance is futile. Then, by presenting them with hope, everyone will follow the path of that hope."
A voice interjected from the side, "As for whether that path of hope leads to a dead end or a cliff, no one knows."
Xiaqiu turned to look at Lucci in the distance and said, "Do you really wish for us to impose tyranny? To use this outcome as proof that you were right?"
"I simply don't trust you," Lucci replied coldly.
"Don't worry; I will ensure that Bola governs this country well," Xiaqiu said coolly. "I understand better than you how crucial a nation's healthy development is."
Lucci remained silent. Xiaqiu then turned to Heckler and asked, "When will she officially become queen?"
"On July 1st," Heckler answered honestly.
"A month from now?" Xiaqiu asked in confusion. "Why such a long wait?"
"Heckler said, 'Bola plans to wait for Dalton to recover from his serious injuries before proceeding with the Coronation Ceremony.'"
"Let her do as she wishes."
Xiaqiu was somewhat surprised by her decision but thought it was fine; there was no rush to become king.
Heckler continued, "Bola asked me to check with the president if we should attend."
"How could I possibly go?"
Xiaqiu scoffed and said, "If I show up, it won't be long before the Navy arrives at Drum Kingdom."
"I'll let her know," Heckler replied immediately.
Xiaqiu narrowed her eyes and added, "But have her invite Vivi; I'll send Vivi in my place."
Vivi would attend as a princess of a neighboring country, which would elevate the ceremony's status and help resolve the tensions between the two nations, showcasing Bola's capabilities.
If any issues arose, Vivi could also provide assistance and keep Bola in check.
Time passed swiftly, and soon it was mid-June.
At Syrup Village, by the port.
Marcel stood with Nokigao and his family, looking at the three figures before him, and smiled as he said, "I've found my family too. It's time for us to part ways."
"But if you leave, we won't have a navigator," Luffy said, his face drooping.
"Yeah, without you, we can't set sail for the Grand Line," Usopp chimed in from the side. "A good navigator is essential."
Zoro coldly remarked, "Are you planning to run away?"
Sanji excitedly circled around Nokigao but was kicked to the ground by Marcel, who scolded him, "Don't fawn over my wife."
Marcel sighed, his expression tinged with sadness. "I’ve enjoyed being with all of you. But I'm sorry; I can't follow you to the Grand Line. I have my wife, family, and children. I must go back."
After being injured, Marcel was taken away by Zoro and Luffy, first heading northeast to West Luo Village. Together they fought and defeated the Black Cat Pirates, acquiring a ship and gaining a new companion.
Later, Marcel contacted the Shining Gold Consortium using a Transponder Snail to inform them of his safety before setting sail.
On the way, learning that Luffy needed a cook, he found the Sea Restaurant and invited Sanji while defeating Klick.
They then arrived at Syrup Village to treat Zoro's injuries before setting off again. Marcel decided it was time to part ways with them.
"It's a pity."
Zoro looked at Marcel and said, "It seems we won't be able to spar anymore."
"I'm not your match anyway."
Marcel smiled wryly, knowing that Zoro's swordsmanship was far superior to his own. He could barely hold his ground with a single sword style, and if Zoro unleashed his three-sword style, defeat was inevitable.
Zoro's strength surpassed that of the Eight he had encountered earlier. As for the Eight who had left with Nami, their power had increased significantly; it was uncertain who would come out on top between them.
"Since you've made your decision, we won't stop you," Sanji said with a smile. "Family is equally important."
"Yeah."
Marcel gritted his teeth and said, "Goodbye, everyone."
"Goodbye."
The four of them boarded the Pirate Ship, preparing to set sail on the Vessel, but they were somewhat flustered.
Seeing this scene, Marcel couldn't help but chuckle softly, yet he refrained from offering assistance because they needed to learn how to manage these things before leaving.
Without a navigator, would they even reach the Grand Line?
Marcel felt a wave of concern wash over him when suddenly Nokigao spoke up, "Go ahead."
"Huh?"
Marcel paused slightly and looked at Nokigao. "What do you mean?"
"Go on an adventure with them," Nokigao said seriously, looking at Marcel.
Marcel shook his head and held Nokigao's hand. "I won't leave you behind."
"I'm not joking."
Nokigao continued, "You love adventure, don't you? You love fighting, right? You love the sea, don't you? Then go with them."
Of course, Marcel wanted to go, but it wasn't that simple. He smiled wryly and said, "You and the kids, along with my mother and siblings, are all here. How could I possibly leave you?"
"We can take care of ourselves."
Nokigao replied, "Your siblings have grown up. We have savings at home, and with Orange Grove, our income is sufficient."
"But..."
Marcel hesitated, but Nokigao pressed on. "More importantly, they saved your life and helped you take revenge. Now they're heading to a very dangerous place. Without a navigator, they might not make it there. Shouldn't you repay them?"
"I..."
Marcel's expression was conflicted. Without a navigator, they would face immense dangers in the Grand Line.
They were his benefactors; he couldn't just stand by while they faced peril.
"Go on, Marcel."
"I will wait for you here. You won't just not come back, will you?" Nokigao said.
"I will come back," Marcel blurted out, only realizing what he had said after the words left his mouth.
"Marcel."
Nokigao said seriously, "They need you, and you need them, so go on your adventure."
Hearing this, Marcel felt a stir in his heart. He turned around and found everyone on the ship looking at him with expressions of hope.
"Nokigao, thank you."
Marcel said softly, "Wait for me. After I help Luffy get the Great Treasure, I will return."
"Okay."
Nokigao nodded gently and added, "After you find Nami, please send my regards to her."
"I will."
Marcel nodded and looked toward the Pirate Ship, calling out loudly, "Luffy, Zoro, Usopp, Sanji, can you let me be your companion?"
"Weren't we already companions?" Sanji replied while puffing on his cigarette.
Zoro snorted and said, "Hurry up and get on the ship."
"Once Marcel is on board, we can head to the Grand Line," Usopp said happily.
"Of course."
Luffy nodded heavily.
Thus, the Straw Hat Pirates stayed on the island for another day before leaving the island on the second day.
Marcel's family stood by the shore, watching the Sea Vessel grow smaller in the distance. Marcel's mother couldn't help but say, "Why do you want him to leave? His companions are important, but you are just as important."
Nokigao smiled and replied, "He told me before that he would never set sail again because the memories of those who have died haunt him constantly. He fears that the same thing will happen again, so he doesn't plan to do these things anymore. But he loves the sea and adventure, and these people can ease his pain and bring him warmth. I like Marcel; I like his optimistic and hardworking spirit, not someone who locks himself in a cage and only wallows in sadness."
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