Chapter 198

**Chapter 198: Linlin – "You're Quite Strong!"**

Linlin's presence was as menacing as ever. Though only 43 years old, her body already bore the strain of endless childbirth. When her husband learned of her growing agitation, he hurried to have food prepared, fully aware of the catastrophic consequences of letting her go hungry.

As he scurried off, Linlin's fierce expression morphed into a twisted grin. She loomed over Roger, her mocking voice cutting through the air.

"Mamama… Roger, I heard that you and Newgate were thoroughly beaten by the Navy. Could it be that you're here to pledge allegiance to me?"

Her words were like salt on an open wound. The Roger Pirates stiffened.

Shanks bristled, unable to hold back his indignation. "Hey! What nonsense are you spouting? The Roger Pirates would never bow to you! Do you think you're stronger than the Golden Lion?"

Rayleigh, standing beside Shanks, remained silent, allowing the younger pirate to voice his defiance.

Linlin's massive eyes gleamed with intrigue as she studied Shanks. There was something oddly familiar about him—a resemblance to a certain young warrior she had seen years ago at the Valley of Gods.

"Roger, where'd you pick up this little brat?" she sneered, still scrutinizing Shanks.

Roger tensed. He knew Linlin's temperament and fully expected her to lash out. Yet, to his surprise, she remained unusually composed. Perhaps there was still hope for a peaceful discussion.

"He's an orphan. I picked him up," Roger said casually, hoping to defuse the situation.

Linlin's focus remained locked on Shanks, her tone turning low and unsettling.

"Kid, what's your name?"

Shanks stood his ground, raising his head proudly. "My name's Shanks!"

In that instant, Linlin activated her Soul-Soul Fruit ability, probing his spirit. If there was any fear in him, she would take his lifespan as payment.

But there was nothing—no fear, no hesitation.

Her gaze narrowed. She had expected some resistance, but this kid…

Roger, sensing Linlin's brewing intentions, quickly stepped in. "That's enough, Linlin. No need to make a fuss over a kid, right?"

Linlin scoffed but relented, shifting her attention back to Roger.

"Roger, control your little brat. Next time, I won't be so kind."

"Understood." Roger chuckled lightly before casting a firm glance at Shanks, silently warning him to step back.

Shanks clicked his tongue in frustration, but Buggy quickly grabbed his arm and pulled him aside. Rayleigh, ever watchful, remained close.

Roger turned to Linlin with a grin. "Linlin, I'm your guest, aren't I? Surely, you're not planning to keep me standing here?"

Linlin crossed her arms. "I don't remember inviting you."

Unfazed, Roger pressed on. "Come on, we fought side by side once. Doesn't that count for something?"

Linlin chuckled darkly. "Mamama… fighting side by side? Maybe save that line for Rocks."

Roger smirked. "Ha! Newgate told me you were sick of being on Rocks' crew. If he hadn't died, leaving wouldn't have been so easy for you, would it?"

Linlin spat dismissively—nearly hitting Roger, who had to step aside to dodge the massive gob of saliva.

"That blabbermouth Newgate should mind his own business," she huffed. "Speaking of which, he rejected me! Does he think I'm worse than that tramp? If he'd joined forces with me, imagine how powerful our children would be!"

Roger wiped his forehead, exhaling. He knew exactly who Linlin was referring to—Miss Buckin. Though Whitebeard had never shown interest in either woman, it seemed Buckin's scheming and Linlin's madness had left equally distasteful impressions on him.

Lost in thought, Roger pondered his own legacy. With his time running out, perhaps he, too, should think about having a child.

Before he could dwell on the idea, Linlin's voice broke through his thoughts.

"Mamama… Roger, how about you and I have a child together?"

Silence.

The *Oro Jackson* crew froze.

Roger instinctively took a step back, his forehead glistening with sweat as he met Linlin's expectant gaze.

"Uh… thanks, but I think we're not a good match…"

Linlin leaned in, her massive face just inches from his.

"What's not to match? You're strong—I'm sure you'd satisfy me."

Roger screamed internally. He barely held himself back from punching the enormous face looming over him.

He quickly retreated to Rayleigh's side, much to his first mate's relief.

Steadying himself, Roger cleared his throat and spoke with newfound seriousness.

"Linlin, let's set this aside. I came here for a reason."