Reading settings
Chapter 1310: Intense Sensation of Suffocation! (5,000-word Chapter)
White seagulls soared gracefully through the sky, their piercing, shrill cries echoing across the horizon. The vast, endless ocean exuded a profound sense of tranquility and freedom. Waves crashed rhythmically against the hull of the sailing ship, while the strong sea breeze filled the towering white sails into perfect curved bulges.
On the clean wooden deck, three beautiful girls stood shoulder to shoulder, gazing at the emerging silhouette of Cactus Island in the distance. Sunlight bathed their fair skin and exquisite features, leaving nearby sailors mesmerized. Around the mid-sized sailing vessel, more than a dozen other ships of various designs traveled in the same direction – all heading toward the island with its distinctive green spherical mountains.
Cactus Island lay in the first half of the Grand Line, split by a central river. Originally home to a small town known for its wine and music, its strategic location near Reverse Mountain made it a convenient stop between the Four Seas and the Grand Line. Bounty hunters flocked here for rest and refitting.
Later, when the World Government established the G-0 Marine Branch at Reverse Mountain to inspect passing ships, it not only intercepted many would-be pirates attempting to enter the Grand Line but also increased merchant safety. This led to more commercial vessels arriving, bringing merchants, crew members, and workers.
The emergence of the Flamingo Shipping Company transformed the island into a civilian tourism hub. As one of seven starting islands for routes in the first half of the Grand Line, and being centrally located near Twin Cape and the G-0 Marine Branch, the island became even more strategically important.
Now, Donquixote Doflamingo relocating the Adventurers' Association headquarters here further boosted the island's population and reputation. From the bustling harbor came distant sounds of activity carried by the wind. Ships of different sizes and decorations either lined the shores with sails lowered or slowly maneuvered between docks heading into the distance. However, the number of departing ships paled in comparison to those arriving.
Looking inland, neatly arranged buildings formed a dense urban landscape. What was once a humble village had become a vibrant metropolis. This lively scene unfolded before Tiffany, Dujia, Sasha, Brian, and Brumaire like a grand painting.
"There are so many people," said Tiffany nervously, tightening her grip on Sasha's arm.
"This is the Adventurers' Association headquarters after all. Many will come to register for the competition, just like us," replied Sasha with eager anticipation. She turned to glance at Brumaire, who was conversing with Brian nearby.
Since Sasha's resurrection by Brumaire, the two had settled in Alabasta, taking in the orphaned Tiffany and Dujia. When Sasha recently heard about the Hundred Strongest Tournament, she immediately decided to participate. As the "First Generation Gandharva," she possessed the "Divine Left Hand" ability and, being an Elf, had over a century of combat experience. Brumaire had also infused her with magic from one of the Four Elemental Rubies during her revival, significantly enhancing her power.
With permission from Sir Pitt, Brumaire retrieved the "Wisdom Sword Deveren" from Impel Down for her use. While Louise and Sir Pitt needed to remain inside for three years, this sword originally belonged to Sasha when Brumaire forged it long ago. Still, he showed proper respect to Pitt as its current owner.
Equipped with her familiar weapon, Sasha felt confident about achieving good results. However, Brumaire remained reluctant about her participation. Though this tournament had become safer than the previous edition, there were still significant risks of death, with injuries practically guaranteed.
Despite Sasha's insistence, Brumaire eventually agreed. During this time, he dedicated himself to enhancing Sasha's abilities through various means. He acquired a complete set of training techniques including Demon Slayer Breathing Methods, All-Element Breathing - Sword Master Realm, Armament Haki's "Coiling Hardening Flow Release," Life Return, and Six King Styles martial arts secrets.
Additionally, he obtained the "Perfect Type-3 Cellular Enhancement Serum," the latest biotech development granting physical potential rivaling the best among the Starfish people. He also secured the newly developed, not-yet-released "High Elf Lineage Serum," which could grant non-Elves nearly 500 years of lifespan – half that of High Elves in the Falmer World. Those with partial Elf heritage would gain even greater benefits.
Such top-tier resources would have been impossible to acquire without Brumaire's status as a Celestial Pantheon member, requiring a substantial expenditure of his accumulated merits.
Regarding safety, he already received authorization from Lady Imu to secretly protect Sasha during the competition. However, direct intervention would result in her disqualification. Noticing Sasha's affectionate gaze, Brumaire responded with a warm smile. To him, Sasha was worth every sacrifice – let her enjoy this Hundred Strongest Tournament to her heart's content.
"Everyone here seems stronger than me," muttered Brian beside Brumaire.
"Don't say that. Your previous strength was already considerable, and after mastering Thunder Breathing to the 'Constant Focus - Normal State' level these past few months, you might not make the top ten but certainly the top hundred," Brumaire reassured. Brian nodded thoughtfully, recognizing his own significant progress since learning Thunder Breathing.
In truth, if Brian could see his status screen, he would notice his total level increasing from 28 to 31 – entering the so-called Heroic Domain. His three professions had also advanced: "Warrior Prodigy" maxed at level 15 (explaining his rapid mastery of Thunder Breathing), "Sword Expert" rising from 10 to 12, and "Sword Saint" progressing from 3 to 4. The "Six Sword Forms of Thunder Breathing" now appeared in his technique list.
While still far from his limit-breaking state against Cocytus described in the original world (estimated at level 40 by Cocytus and acknowledged as transcending work boundaries by the Overlord's god), current Brian could easily defeat his initially summoned self.
Yet Brian couldn't feel happy. This strength still felt insufficient against that "monster." His blade remained just a "dull nail clipper" in the enemy's words. So when Tiffany explained the temporary impossibility of returning home, Brian actually felt relieved – he was simply too frightened to go back.
In his original story, Brian had similarly wallowed in the capital city before regaining his determination. His psyche was currently at that stage. However, witnessing the World Government's might reignited his hope to grow stronger here before returning to defeat that monster.
Tiffany had made things clear – while Brumaire possessed the ability to create World Gates for his return, the World Government had prohibited such actions. Opening portals required official authorization.
Brumaire and Tiffany both understood this wasn't a joke. Louise and Sir Pitt were imprisoned in Impel Down for this very reason, and Dujia's father executed. Though World Gates originated from their magic, usage remained under World Government control. Returning soon was impossible.
Fortunately, Tiffany mentioned that according to previous summoning experiences (like with Haldor), time between worlds flowed differently when portals remained closed. Even prolonged stays in the Starfish World might equate to less than a day in his homeland. This somewhat comforted Brian, though perhaps merely as self-reassurance.
After hearing Sasha's decision to compete in the Hundred Strongest Tournament, Brian carefully considered and decided to participate as well. He hoped to accelerate his growth through battles against powerful fighters from various worlds. Especially after learning Sword Master Realm techniques, Armament Haki training theories from Sasha, and possessing the "Domain" special skill allowing perception of surrounding presences – indicating potential in Observation Haki despite requiring personal opportunities.
As for joining the World Government's military? Never. Brian preferred his carefree lifestyle as an adventurer. As a Void Familiar, his primary duty was following Tiffany, who happily agreed to accompany him on his travels.
*BOOM!* With the ship docking, the gangplank lowered onto the pier. Sasha, Tiffany, Dujia, Brumaire, and Brian disembarked one by one.
However, rather than blending into the crowd immediately, all eyes turned to the three girls. Their extraordinary beauty combined with the distinctive pointed Elven ears made them stand out. Though Alabasta hosted hundreds of thousands of Elves from the Zero Magic World, and RL1002 region of Red Earth Continent had many High Elves and Night Elves from the Falmer World, most rarely ventured outside. While many had learned about Elves through newspapers and videos, few had seen real ones.
Three beautiful young Elven girls naturally drew countless gazes, gradually silencing the port area. The timid Tiffany and Dujia instinctively hid behind Sasha, who defiantly scanned the crowd with unyielding confidence. Brian and Brumaire instinctively positioned themselves protectively in front and behind the girls.
Normally, their next step would be finding the Adventurers' Association designated preliminary screening site. After passing the preliminaries, they could register for the main tournament before proceeding to the "Giant World" Rokuro乐园 (Rokuro Paradise) once the preliminaries concluded.
Though officially starting June 1st, this marked when all preliminary venues officially opened. Doflamingo, seeking to promote his association's authority, allowed Starfish residents to take the preliminary exams early at the headquarters, attracting numerous experts from various seas and even Red Earth Continent. This influx made Cactus Island bustling yet chaotic.
To maintain order, police dispatched thousands of officers, with three warships from the G-0 Marine Branch stationed offshore. Association executives like Doflamingo, Shanks, Morgan Williams, Diamante, and Vergo personally oversaw operations, ensuring everyone behaved regardless of background or strength. The association also provided duel arenas for resolving conflicts, preventing major incidents while allowing minor skirmishes.
As Sasha, Brian, and their group moved inland through the curious, surprised, and amused crowd...
Someone finally spoke up.
"Those are some stunning girls. This is my first time seeing an Elf in person!"
All eyes turned to the speaker – a towering figure over two meters tall wearing golden full-body armor. But more importantly, the crimson cloak draped over his shoulders marked him as a Top 100 competitor from last tournament!
As expected, the crowd erupted in discussion.
"It's East Blue's Krieg! Last tournament's 98th place!"
"Hmph, I heard he barely scraped into the Top 100 through underhanded tactics. His actual strength isn't impressive."
"Who cares about methods? Top 100 is Top 100. Since when must battles be fought honorably?"
Krieg grinned smugly at the commotion. During the past four years, his "Top 100 Cloak" helped assemble a formidable adventuring party. With nearly ten thousand members, they even claimed to be the strongest in East Blue, rivaling Morgan Company in some guesses. Yet to maintain Top 100 benefits like Star Gate access and social privileges, he needed consistent tournament performance. Otherwise, his cloak and plaque would become mere memorabilia. Even so, former Top 100 competitors still enjoyed higher status than ordinary adventurers.
Thus, Krieg spent these years improving strength and gathering weapons.
"You three beauties must be accompanying these 'bean sprouts' for the preliminaries, right?" Krieg sneered at Sasha's group. "Let me, Captain Krieg, escort you there. We can have drinks afterward – my treat!"
He flashed what he considered a friendly smile while completely ignoring Brian standing in front.
"We'll manage on our own. Please step aside," Brian coldly replied, hand resting on his sword hilt.
"Who asked you?" Krieg narrowed his eyes at the shorter Brian. "You're another world traveler, right? I suggest keeping a low profile. This is Starfish, and you're facing last tournament's Top 100!"
His tone dripped with contempt and superiority. Behind him, a dozen subordinates spread out, encircling the group with mocking grins. While不敢to act outright, they enjoyed intimidating others. If necessary, they had plenty of underhanded methods. People frequently vanished at night, beyond the police's current capabilities to swiftly investigate and apprehend.
"We're being low-key. You're the one causing trouble. Move aside – one last time," Brian retorted frostily.
"Hehehe, fine, fine. Hope you pass the screening," Krieg reluctantly stepped aside after consideration. But as Sasha's group passed, his eyes burned with greed – clearly not giving up.
"Huh?!"
Just as his gaze met the final golden-haired youth's, Krieg froze completely, like a lifelike stone statue.
"Captain?"
His subordinates, noticing the girls had already walked far ahead, tried to rouse him with confusion.
Krieg suddenly snapped back, sweat pouring from his forehead. Then, with a *THUD*, he collapsed onto the ground, trembling uncontrollably.
Witnessing this humiliation, onlookers exchanged odd glances, thinking, "Is this guy really just a fraud?"
They couldn't know what Krieg experienced – for that brief moment, his entire being felt frozen in ice. Overwhelming suffocation and terror invaded his mind, making him believe he might die.
"What kind of person was that?!"
Ignoring the surrounding ridicule, Krieg stared at Brumaire's retreating figure with pure fear in his eyes. In that instant, he abandoned any thoughts of further confrontation. Krieg was no longer the East Blue frog ignorant of the world. That single glance proved the other party was an extremely dangerous powerhouse. The fact he still lived likely stemmed from the opponent's caution toward the Adventurers' Association, just as he himself had refrained from direct action earlier.
End of Chapter
White seagulls soared gracefully through the sky, their piercing, shrill cries echoing across the horizon. The vast, endless ocean exuded a profound sense of tranquility and freedom. Waves crashed rhythmically against the hull of the sailing ship, while the strong sea breeze filled the towering white sails into perfect curved bulges.
On the clean wooden deck, three beautiful girls stood shoulder to shoulder, gazing at the emerging silhouette of Cactus Island in the distance. Sunlight bathed their fair skin and exquisite features, leaving nearby sailors mesmerized. Around the mid-sized sailing vessel, more than a dozen other ships of various designs traveled in the same direction – all heading toward the island with its distinctive green spherical mountains.
Cactus Island lay in the first half of the Grand Line, split by a central river. Originally home to a small town known for its wine and music, its strategic location near Reverse Mountain made it a convenient stop between the Four Seas and the Grand Line. Bounty hunters flocked here for rest and refitting.
Later, when the World Government established the G-0 Marine Branch at Reverse Mountain to inspect passing ships, it not only intercepted many would-be pirates attempting to enter the Grand Line but also increased merchant safety. This led to more commercial vessels arriving, bringing merchants, crew members, and workers.
The emergence of the Flamingo Shipping Company transformed the island into a civilian tourism hub. As one of seven starting islands for routes in the first half of the Grand Line, and being centrally located near Twin Cape and the G-0 Marine Branch, the island became even more strategically important.
Now, Donquixote Doflamingo relocating the Adventurers' Association headquarters here further boosted the island's population and reputation. From the bustling harbor came distant sounds of activity carried by the wind. Ships of different sizes and decorations either lined the shores with sails lowered or slowly maneuvered between docks heading into the distance. However, the number of departing ships paled in comparison to those arriving.
Looking inland, neatly arranged buildings formed a dense urban landscape. What was once a humble village had become a vibrant metropolis. This lively scene unfolded before Tiffany, Dujia, Sasha, Brian, and Brumaire like a grand painting.
"There are so many people," said Tiffany nervously, tightening her grip on Sasha's arm.
"This is the Adventurers' Association headquarters after all. Many will come to register for the competition, just like us," replied Sasha with eager anticipation. She turned to glance at Brumaire, who was conversing with Brian nearby.
Since Sasha's resurrection by Brumaire, the two had settled in Alabasta, taking in the orphaned Tiffany and Dujia. When Sasha recently heard about the Hundred Strongest Tournament, she immediately decided to participate. As the "First Generation Gandharva," she possessed the "Divine Left Hand" ability and, being an Elf, had over a century of combat experience. Brumaire had also infused her with magic from one of the Four Elemental Rubies during her revival, significantly enhancing her power.
With permission from Sir Pitt, Brumaire retrieved the "Wisdom Sword Deveren" from Impel Down for her use. While Louise and Sir Pitt needed to remain inside for three years, this sword originally belonged to Sasha when Brumaire forged it long ago. Still, he showed proper respect to Pitt as its current owner.
Equipped with her familiar weapon, Sasha felt confident about achieving good results. However, Brumaire remained reluctant about her participation. Though this tournament had become safer than the previous edition, there were still significant risks of death, with injuries practically guaranteed.
Despite Sasha's insistence, Brumaire eventually agreed. During this time, he dedicated himself to enhancing Sasha's abilities through various means. He acquired a complete set of training techniques including Demon Slayer Breathing Methods, All-Element Breathing - Sword Master Realm, Armament Haki's "Coiling Hardening Flow Release," Life Return, and Six King Styles martial arts secrets.
Additionally, he obtained the "Perfect Type-3 Cellular Enhancement Serum," the latest biotech development granting physical potential rivaling the best among the Starfish people. He also secured the newly developed, not-yet-released "High Elf Lineage Serum," which could grant non-Elves nearly 500 years of lifespan – half that of High Elves in the Falmer World. Those with partial Elf heritage would gain even greater benefits.
Such top-tier resources would have been impossible to acquire without Brumaire's status as a Celestial Pantheon member, requiring a substantial expenditure of his accumulated merits.
Regarding safety, he already received authorization from Lady Imu to secretly protect Sasha during the competition. However, direct intervention would result in her disqualification. Noticing Sasha's affectionate gaze, Brumaire responded with a warm smile. To him, Sasha was worth every sacrifice – let her enjoy this Hundred Strongest Tournament to her heart's content.
"Everyone here seems stronger than me," muttered Brian beside Brumaire.
"Don't say that. Your previous strength was already considerable, and after mastering Thunder Breathing to the 'Constant Focus - Normal State' level these past few months, you might not make the top ten but certainly the top hundred," Brumaire reassured. Brian nodded thoughtfully, recognizing his own significant progress since learning Thunder Breathing.
In truth, if Brian could see his status screen, he would notice his total level increasing from 28 to 31 – entering the so-called Heroic Domain. His three professions had also advanced: "Warrior Prodigy" maxed at level 15 (explaining his rapid mastery of Thunder Breathing), "Sword Expert" rising from 10 to 12, and "Sword Saint" progressing from 3 to 4. The "Six Sword Forms of Thunder Breathing" now appeared in his technique list.
While still far from his limit-breaking state against Cocytus described in the original world (estimated at level 40 by Cocytus and acknowledged as transcending work boundaries by the Overlord's god), current Brian could easily defeat his initially summoned self.
Yet Brian couldn't feel happy. This strength still felt insufficient against that "monster." His blade remained just a "dull nail clipper" in the enemy's words. So when Tiffany explained the temporary impossibility of returning home, Brian actually felt relieved – he was simply too frightened to go back.
In his original story, Brian had similarly wallowed in the capital city before regaining his determination. His psyche was currently at that stage. However, witnessing the World Government's might reignited his hope to grow stronger here before returning to defeat that monster.
Tiffany had made things clear – while Brumaire possessed the ability to create World Gates for his return, the World Government had prohibited such actions. Opening portals required official authorization.
Brumaire and Tiffany both understood this wasn't a joke. Louise and Sir Pitt were imprisoned in Impel Down for this very reason, and Dujia's father executed. Though World Gates originated from their magic, usage remained under World Government control. Returning soon was impossible.
Fortunately, Tiffany mentioned that according to previous summoning experiences (like with Haldor), time between worlds flowed differently when portals remained closed. Even prolonged stays in the Starfish World might equate to less than a day in his homeland. This somewhat comforted Brian, though perhaps merely as self-reassurance.
After hearing Sasha's decision to compete in the Hundred Strongest Tournament, Brian carefully considered and decided to participate as well. He hoped to accelerate his growth through battles against powerful fighters from various worlds. Especially after learning Sword Master Realm techniques, Armament Haki training theories from Sasha, and possessing the "Domain" special skill allowing perception of surrounding presences – indicating potential in Observation Haki despite requiring personal opportunities.
As for joining the World Government's military? Never. Brian preferred his carefree lifestyle as an adventurer. As a Void Familiar, his primary duty was following Tiffany, who happily agreed to accompany him on his travels.
*BOOM!* With the ship docking, the gangplank lowered onto the pier. Sasha, Tiffany, Dujia, Brumaire, and Brian disembarked one by one.
However, rather than blending into the crowd immediately, all eyes turned to the three girls. Their extraordinary beauty combined with the distinctive pointed Elven ears made them stand out. Though Alabasta hosted hundreds of thousands of Elves from the Zero Magic World, and RL1002 region of Red Earth Continent had many High Elves and Night Elves from the Falmer World, most rarely ventured outside. While many had learned about Elves through newspapers and videos, few had seen real ones.
Three beautiful young Elven girls naturally drew countless gazes, gradually silencing the port area. The timid Tiffany and Dujia instinctively hid behind Sasha, who defiantly scanned the crowd with unyielding confidence. Brian and Brumaire instinctively positioned themselves protectively in front and behind the girls.
Normally, their next step would be finding the Adventurers' Association designated preliminary screening site. After passing the preliminaries, they could register for the main tournament before proceeding to the "Giant World" Rokuro乐园 (Rokuro Paradise) once the preliminaries concluded.
Though officially starting June 1st, this marked when all preliminary venues officially opened. Doflamingo, seeking to promote his association's authority, allowed Starfish residents to take the preliminary exams early at the headquarters, attracting numerous experts from various seas and even Red Earth Continent. This influx made Cactus Island bustling yet chaotic.
To maintain order, police dispatched thousands of officers, with three warships from the G-0 Marine Branch stationed offshore. Association executives like Doflamingo, Shanks, Morgan Williams, Diamante, and Vergo personally oversaw operations, ensuring everyone behaved regardless of background or strength. The association also provided duel arenas for resolving conflicts, preventing major incidents while allowing minor skirmishes.
As Sasha, Brian, and their group moved inland through the curious, surprised, and amused crowd...
Someone finally spoke up.
"Those are some stunning girls. This is my first time seeing an Elf in person!"
All eyes turned to the speaker – a towering figure over two meters tall wearing golden full-body armor. But more importantly, the crimson cloak draped over his shoulders marked him as a Top 100 competitor from last tournament!
As expected, the crowd erupted in discussion.
"It's East Blue's Krieg! Last tournament's 98th place!"
"Hmph, I heard he barely scraped into the Top 100 through underhanded tactics. His actual strength isn't impressive."
"Who cares about methods? Top 100 is Top 100. Since when must battles be fought honorably?"
Krieg grinned smugly at the commotion. During the past four years, his "Top 100 Cloak" helped assemble a formidable adventuring party. With nearly ten thousand members, they even claimed to be the strongest in East Blue, rivaling Morgan Company in some guesses. Yet to maintain Top 100 benefits like Star Gate access and social privileges, he needed consistent tournament performance. Otherwise, his cloak and plaque would become mere memorabilia. Even so, former Top 100 competitors still enjoyed higher status than ordinary adventurers.
Thus, Krieg spent these years improving strength and gathering weapons.
"You three beauties must be accompanying these 'bean sprouts' for the preliminaries, right?" Krieg sneered at Sasha's group. "Let me, Captain Krieg, escort you there. We can have drinks afterward – my treat!"
He flashed what he considered a friendly smile while completely ignoring Brian standing in front.
"We'll manage on our own. Please step aside," Brian coldly replied, hand resting on his sword hilt.
"Who asked you?" Krieg narrowed his eyes at the shorter Brian. "You're another world traveler, right? I suggest keeping a low profile. This is Starfish, and you're facing last tournament's Top 100!"
His tone dripped with contempt and superiority. Behind him, a dozen subordinates spread out, encircling the group with mocking grins. While不敢to act outright, they enjoyed intimidating others. If necessary, they had plenty of underhanded methods. People frequently vanished at night, beyond the police's current capabilities to swiftly investigate and apprehend.
"We're being low-key. You're the one causing trouble. Move aside – one last time," Brian retorted frostily.
"Hehehe, fine, fine. Hope you pass the screening," Krieg reluctantly stepped aside after consideration. But as Sasha's group passed, his eyes burned with greed – clearly not giving up.
"Huh?!"
Just as his gaze met the final golden-haired youth's, Krieg froze completely, like a lifelike stone statue.
"Captain?"
His subordinates, noticing the girls had already walked far ahead, tried to rouse him with confusion.
Krieg suddenly snapped back, sweat pouring from his forehead. Then, with a *THUD*, he collapsed onto the ground, trembling uncontrollably.
Witnessing this humiliation, onlookers exchanged odd glances, thinking, "Is this guy really just a fraud?"
They couldn't know what Krieg experienced – for that brief moment, his entire being felt frozen in ice. Overwhelming suffocation and terror invaded his mind, making him believe he might die.
"What kind of person was that?!"
Ignoring the surrounding ridicule, Krieg stared at Brumaire's retreating figure with pure fear in his eyes. In that instant, he abandoned any thoughts of further confrontation. Krieg was no longer the East Blue frog ignorant of the world. That single glance proved the other party was an extremely dangerous powerhouse. The fact he still lived likely stemmed from the opponent's caution toward the Adventurers' Association, just as he himself had refrained from direct action earlier.
End of Chapter
