Chapter 134 A Debt of Gratitude

The sheer presence of Red-Haired Shanks, bolstered by the overwhelming force of his Conqueror's Haki, brought the battlefield to an eerie halt. Even Satoru, who had predicted Shanks' arrival, couldn't help but marvel at the instant shift in dynamics.

**"Why should I listen to you, redhead?"** Big Mom roared in fury, refusing to yield so easily.

Shanks, calm but commanding, replied, **"If anyone hasn't had enough of this war, the Red-Haired Pirates will gladly be your next opponents."**

The unmistakable confidence in his words was matched by his crew's resolute postures. The statement silenced even the most rebellious spirits.

From the navy side, Kizaru and Kuzan exchanged impressed glances. **"As expected of the red-haired Shanks,"** Kuzan muttered. The sheer weight of Shanks' authority was unlike anything they had encountered before, even among other Yonko.

Under Shanks' domineering influence, the war came to a reluctant end. The remnants of the Big Mom and Beast Pirates retreated, their morale shattered. The navy, battered but victorious, breathed a collective sigh of relief.

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**Back at the G8 Base**

The aftermath of the battle was sobering. Sengoku's voice carried through the den-den mushi, relaying the navy's decision to regroup. **"The fight's over. Kizaru, Kuzan, return to base. The G8 needs reinforcements while Satoru recovers."**

Zefa and Garp, still at the Marineford headquarters, expressed their frustration at not being on the frontlines. Garp's fists tightened as Sengoku mentioned Shanks' intervention. **"That red-haired brat again…"** Garp muttered, his mind flashing back to old grievances.

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**Celebrations with the Red-Haired Pirates**

The atmosphere on a nearby uninhabited island was lively. A massive bonfire roared, surrounded by the boisterous Red-Haired Pirates. Even Mihawk, stoic as ever, joined the gathering, a rare sight that spoke volumes about the camaraderie present.

Satoru, recovering from his battle, approached Shanks. **"Thank you for your help. Without you, things might've gone differently."**

Shanks grinned. **"No need to thank me. Friends help each other out."**

Satoru, however, took the gesture seriously. **"I owe you a favor. If you ever need my help, just ask. I'll do whatever I can."**

Hearing this, Shanks' expression turned serious. **"Then it's a deal."**

Shanks knew the value of a promise from someone like Satoru—a rising star with potential rivaling even the greatest. The encounter was more than a fleeting alliance; it was the foundation of a bond that might shape the world's future.

As the night wore on, the laughter and revelry of the Red-Haired Pirates filled the island, masking the weight of debts, promises, and the battles yet to come.