Echo of the Distant Past

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As Fugar led the way, Shanks, Benn Beckman, Yasopp, Limejuice, and Bonk Punch followed closely, all rushing toward the Forbidden Forest. Their urgency was palpable.

However, their path was suddenly disrupted by a growing uproar among the townspeople, accompanied by a resounding announcement from the Marines.

"Attention all citizens! In the interest of maintaining order and security, the Marines have assumed control of Raduno Town and the Forbidden Forest. Until further notice, entry or exit to these areas is strictly prohibited," boomed the voice of Marines' authority.

Emerging from the midst of the commotion, Spandam, the leader of CP5, stepped forward. With his trademark sly grin, he asserted his authority. "Surround the Forest area! No one is to be allowed inside!"

Following his command, a swarm of Marines swiftly dispersed throughout the town, strategically encircling the forest from all angles, effectively sealing off any entrance.

Confusion filled the town as its people tried to make sense of the unfolding situation. Fugar, witnessing the sudden appearance of the Marines, felt a mixture of confusion and relief, 'Thank God, they've finally arrived! We can make a timely rescue with this added number of manpower!'

But before the old advisor could utter a word, The Red Hair Captain calmly asked, "Isn't it rather convenient that the Marines arrive just as the Basilisks are defeated and we're about to enter the Forbidden Forest?"

Spandam, caught off guard by the inquiry, attempted to deflect the suspicion, "We have come to investigate at the request of this island! We made every effort to arrive as swiftly as possible, but traversing from Marineford to this remote part of the New World took some time," he explained, attempting to justify their sudden presence.

Beckman, however, saw through the charade.. "Since when did CP5 agents concern themselves with the general cases of citizens' disappearances?" he interjected knowingly.

Spandam's mind raced, realizing that his true identity had been recognised, 'Damn it! They saw through me instantly!' He cursed inwardly, his anxiety growing...

"Apologies, CP5. We won't comply to the Marines' order and remain silent. We will proceed as we see fit," Yasopp nonchalantly declared.

Shanks, echoing Yasopp's sentiment, added with a casual air, "If you wish to stop us, go ahead and try." A chilling aura permeated the area, unsettling all the Marines stationed as guards.

Spandam felt beads of sweat forming on his forehead, fully aware that the power of the Red Hair Pirates far surpassed anything they could contend with.

However, before The red-headed captain and his crew took another step towards the Forest entrance, a commanding voice pierced through the tension...

"Please halt, Red Hair Pirates!" 

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A few moments ago...

Law had just set foot in Raduno Town, his mind heavily burdened. However, his attention was abruptly captured by the sight of marines' troops flooding into the tranquilly small town. The brunet's sharp instincts immediately sensed that something was amiss. Without hesitation, he hastened his steps, following the direction in which the marines were headed.

'It seems they're rushing toward the Forest,' he silently observed, piecing together the puzzle in his mind. The closer he got to the Forest entrance, the louder the commotion grew...

At its center, he witnessed the presence of Red Hair Shanks and some of his crew engaging in a standoff with a Marine Officer, unmistakably the leader of CP5.

'Why would the government send those guys here? They only dig for their own shady agendas,' Law contemplated, his suspicions deepening.

Seizing the opportunity, he discreetly approached Limejuice, who stood at the back of the Red Hair crew. In a hushed tone, Law inquired, "Hey, what's going on here?"

"Ah, there you are, Doctor Law. Something happened and we're about to...."

Before the member of the Red Hair Crew could finish his sentence, their conversation was abruptly interrupted by the arrival of an unexpected figure. A commanding voice reverberated through the chaotic scene, declaring, "Please halt, Red Hair Pirates!"

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Law turned his face towards the speaker. His eyes widened as the marines made an announcement from behind, commanding the citizens to make ways for the Island's leader...

"All Citizens! Stay clear from the main path! Lord Bogart Whitestone has arrived!!!"

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Time stood still, freezing the very air around him... A paralysing numbness gripped Law's body once again, as the name that had haunted every step of his childhood echoed mercilessly in his ears...

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'Bogart Whitestone, The Former King of Flevance.'

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