One Piece, I'm just an adventurer.

Upon hearing this voice, Vivi glanced at Lin Yi and the others somewhat shyly, then called out loudly, "Uncle Jaka, I'm back."

As Weiwei shouted, the door was quickly opened, and a middle-aged, burly man with a long sword at his waist, a gray cloak, and short hair that reached his ears rushed out.

The man strode up to Weiwei and said in a serious tone, "Miss Weiwei, this is putting me in a difficult position. If something happens to you, how will we explain it to the head of the family?"

Vivi stuck out her tongue and honestly admitted her mistake, saying, "I'm sorry, Uncle Jaka, I won't do it again next time."

Jaka glanced at Vivi helplessly; this lively and energetic princess was truly giving him a headache.

But he couldn't say anything harsh, so he could only say patiently, "Miss Weiwei, next time you want to go out, just tell me so I can arrange for guards to protect your safety."

“Okay, Uncle Jaka.”

Seeing Weiwei's sincere apology, Jiaka had no choice but to give up his intention to continue his earnest teachings and instead looked at Lin Yi and the others.

He frowned, then said in a shocked tone, "You...you...you are Venerable Kong, Lin Yi!!"

Chapter 35 Arrival in Arubana

Looking at Jia Ka, whose jaw seemed to drop in utter shock, Lin Yi felt a wave of helplessness and speechlessness. This scene had happened countless times before. Every time he arrived in a new place, if someone recognized him, they would react with this exaggerated expression, as if they had seen some priceless treasure. He really couldn't understand what these people were thinking. He, Lin Yi, wasn't some big star; why were they making such a fuss?

However, what could Lin Yi say in this situation? He could only put on a faint smile and try to appear friendly and cordial as he spoke: "Hello, I am Lin Yi. It is a great pleasure to meet you here, Mr. Jaka."

Jaka swallowed hard, seemingly trying to calm his turmoil, but it clearly didn't do much good. He hurriedly stretched out his hands, gesturing for them to enter, and warmly welcomed Lin Yi and his group into the house like honored guests.

After everyone was seated, introductions began. Each person briefly explained their identity and background, and the atmosphere gradually became relaxed and harmonious.

Just then, Vivi's clear and melodious voice rang out: "Uncle Jaka, I would like to invite Lin Yi and the others to stay at our manor, is that alright?"

After hearing this, Jaka hesitated for a moment, but quickly nodded without hesitation and replied, "Of course! Since it is Princess Vivi who personally extended the invitation, I naturally have no objection."

At this point, Jaka couldn't help but secretly think that with the formidable strength Lin Yi and his group had displayed, if he dared to refuse, he would likely anger them. The consequences of such powerful figures being angered were unimaginable; he dared not take that risk. If Princess Vivi were to fall into danger, his sins would be immense.

"That's great!" Upon receiving Jiaka's approval, a joyful smile immediately bloomed on Vivi's delicate and adorable face.

Despite being an incomparably noble princess, her father was still worried about her because of her young age. He specially dispatched the highly skilled and loyal Jaka to protect her. He solemnly instructed her: During Vivi's time in the town of Yoba, she must heed Jaka's advice and arrangements in everything she does.

And so, Lin Yi and his group naturally moved into Weiwei's luxurious manor.

Time flies, and a whole week has passed in the blink of an eye. In this short week, Vivi and Kou Sha got along very well with Lin Yi and the others, and a deep friendship was formed among them.

Vivi and Kou Sha, in particular, were filled with curiosity and longing for the thrilling and interesting stories that Lin Yi and the others had experienced on the vast ocean, and they would pester them with questions almost every day.

After several intense internal struggles and with Vivi's tireless encouragement, Kou Sha finally mustered the courage to approach Lin Yi and respectfully request to become his disciple.

Faced with this determined and sincere child, Lin Yi didn't immediately agree to take him as a disciple, but he still generously taught Kou Sha and Wei Wei some simple and practical cultivation methods and techniques. This made the two little ones dance with excitement and cheer with joy.

However, all good things must come to an end, and beautiful times are always fleeting. After imparting all his basic cultivation knowledge to Weiwei and Kou Sha, Lin Yi felt that he had already wasted a lot of time, so he began to prepare to continue their long journey.

"What? Teacher, you're leaving so soon?" When he heard this sudden news, Kosa was stunned. His face was instantly filled with disbelief, followed by an undisguised look of loss and reluctance.

His once bright and lively eyes were now fixed on Lin Yi, unblinking, as if he wanted to etch the person in front of him deeply into his mind, or as if he hoped that his burning gaze alone could hold back the other person's departing steps.

Lin Yi did not object to Kou Sha's continued insistence on calling him "teacher".

He reached out and gently patted Kosha's head, saying softly, "Kosha, each of us has our own unique journey to complete. For us, Joba is just a temporary resting place on a long journey. Now, we have had enough rest and recuperation here, and it is time to set off again and continue our journey."

After hearing these words, Kou Sha's eyes flickered slightly, then as if he had made up his mind, he gritted his teeth, mustered his courage, and asked, "Then... then can I go with you, Master?"

His voice trembled slightly as he said this, clearly indicating that he was in a state of extreme inner turmoil.

However, in response to Kou Sha's request, Lin Yi slowly shook his head and said softly, "Kou Sha, the sea is far more dangerous than those stories describe! At your current age and strength, you are far too weak. Only when you grow up and continuously strive to improve your strength will you be able to truly have the ability to cope with the various crises and challenges at sea. So for now, stay here obediently and grow well."

"Alright, I understand, teacher." Kou Sha muttered dejectedly, his voice filled with disappointment. However, just a moment later, he suddenly raised his head, his eyes filled with unwavering determination, as if burning with a blazing flame, and said loudly, "Teacher, don't worry! I will definitely train hard, and when I am strong enough, I will definitely go to sea to find you!"

Upon hearing this, Lin Yi couldn't help but laugh out loud, his laughter hearty and unrestrained: "Haha, good lad! Then I'll be waiting for you to come and meet me again on the high seas!"

"Yes, definitely." Kou Sha nodded seriously.

Looking at the boy before him, whose face was full of reluctance and whose eyes were slightly red, Lin Yi had a sudden thought. After a moment's thought, he suggested, "Kousha, how about this? During the time I stay in the Kingdom of Alabasta, you can stay with us. That way, I will have more time to train you."

This unexpected surprise made Kou Sha jump up excitedly. He looked at Lin Yi and said happily, "Really? Teacher, this is wonderful! I will definitely live up to your expectations!"

Seeing Kou Sha's ecstatic expression, Lin Yi smiled and nodded, but then solemnly instructed, "Well, before that, you need to go home first, tell your father about this, and get his consent."

"He'll definitely agree! Then I'll go back and tell my father first, and then come find you!" Kou Sha said to Lin Yi with a face full of joy, and then ran home eagerly and excitedly.

Watching Kou Sha's figure speed away like the wind, Lin Yi couldn't help but smile slightly. To be honest, he truly felt a deep affection for Kou Sha, this student. This child was not only intelligent and quick-witted, but also full of energy and enthusiasm, always bringing endless joy and surprises to those around him.

Not long after Kou Sha left, a petite and hurried figure appeared in Lin Yi's sight. Upon closer inspection, it turned out to be Vivi rushing towards him with anxious steps, calling out repeatedly, "Brother Lin Yi! I heard from Sister Felina and the others that you're leaving Yoba City, is that right?"

Hearing Weiwei's call, Lin Yi shook his head helplessly. It was hard for him to connect this impulsive and carefree little girl with the beautiful and resilient woman she would become ten years later.

When Weiwei finally arrived, she was already out of breath. But without taking a moment to rest, she quickly asked, "Brother Lin Yi, is it really true? Are you really leaving?"

Seeing this, Lin Yi had no choice but to repeat to Weiwei everything he had just said to Kou Sha.

After hearing Lin Yi's explanation, Weiwei breathed a sigh of relief and then happily said, "Then I'll go with you too. It'll be a good opportunity for me to go back and see my father."

And so, Lin Yi and his team, who were about to head to the capital of the Kingdom of Alabasta, gained a few more members.

The next morning, Lin Yi and his group, along with Kou Sha, Vivi, and several of Vivi's guards, embarked on their journey to the capital of the Kingdom of Alabasta.

Thanks to the experienced indigenous guide, Jaka, Lin Yi and his companions had a smooth journey.

Along the way, they encountered almost no large-scale sandstorms, which made the journey exceptionally easy and enjoyable.

However, the journey wasn't entirely smooth sailing; they encountered attacks from some native animals. But these animals were utterly no match for Da Pan and his companions' overwhelming strength. Da Pan and his group struck several times, their movements fluid and natural, the ferocious animals dying before they could even stir up a speck of dust.

The incredible performance of Da Pan and the others filled Kou Sha and Wei Wei with admiration. Watching their graceful and effortless fighting style, a strong desire welled up within them: to be as powerful as them!

Therefore, Kou Sha and Wei Wei trained even harder, because they knew that only by constantly improving their strength could they possess such a remarkable demeanor.

In this atmosphere of cultivating and joking around, time flew by. After a long journey of four days, Lin Yi and his group finally arrived at their destination—Arubana, the capital of the Kingdom of Alabasta.

According to Gaka, this magnificent city is located in the northeastern region of Alabasta, like a dazzling jewel set in the vast desert. The entire city is built on a huge and stable circular foundation, expanding outwards from this center. If the Arubana Palace is considered the core, four distinct and fully functional districts can be clearly divided. Whether in commerce, trade, culture, education, or military defense, each district plays a vital role, collectively supporting this bustling metropolis.

Gaka led the group slowly toward the entrance to the city of Arubana. Before them stretched a long and steep slope that seemed to lead to the sky. Looking up, two towering, imposing stone gates stood atop the slope, like two loyal guardians, exuding an awe-inspiring aura of majesty.

Just as Lin Yi and the others looked puzzled, pondering how to climb the slope, they saw Jia Ka steadily walking towards the stone gate. There, a slightly protruding stone, seemingly ordinary, appeared to conceal some kind of mystery.

Without hesitation, Jakka stretched out his finger and tapped it quickly a few times on the stone. Then, he took a deep breath and pressed down hard. In an instant, a dazzling light flashed, like lightning ripped through the night sky. Then, brilliant golden lines, like serpents, rapidly spread out from the stone, rushing up the ground until the entire slope was covered by these mysterious lines.

In the blink of an eye, these golden patterns transformed into a row of neat steps, as if specially laid out by heaven, steadily connecting the stone gate at the bottom and top of the slope.

Seeing this, a proud smile appeared on Jaka's face: "Look, everyone, this is the ancient art of mechanisms! Only those who know its secrets can activate this passage leading into the city."

Upon hearing this, everyone marveled at the ingenious design. However, Lin Yi asked curiously, "Then how do the other ordinary residents enter and leave the city?"

“The city of Arubana has another gate that is normally open, but that gate also has opening hours. It’s usually open for three hours in the morning and three hours in the afternoon, and it’s closed at night. It’s too early now, and that gate hasn’t opened yet,” Jaka explained.

"I see," Lin Yi said no more, and followed the others up the stairs into Arubana.

The city was bustling with activity, and the streets were lined with all sorts of strange and wonderful goods. Vivi excitedly dragged Felina and the other girls around, while Kosa curiously observed the martial arts moves of the people practicing on the street.

“Lord Lin Yi, I have already informed His Majesty the King of your arrival. He warmly welcomes you and would like to invite you to the palace for a chat. What do you say, Lord Lin Yi?” Jaka said respectfully to Lin Yi.

Lin Yi thought for a moment and shook his head, saying, "We want to look around the city first, and then go to the palace with Vivi to meet the king later."

Although Jaka very much wanted Lin Yi to go to the palace to meet His Majesty the King immediately, he did not dare to force Lin Yi and could only respectfully say, "Yes, Lord Lin Yi, I will inform His Majesty the King of your decision. I entrust Princess Vivi to your care for now."

"Okay, go ahead. Weiwei will be fine with us here," Lin Yi said.

Afterwards, Jakka went to the palace alone to report the situation.

After seeing Jia Ka leave, Lin Yi turned his gaze to his playful companions. Just as he was about to join them, he caught a glimpse of a familiar face in a coffee shop out of the corner of his eye.

Chapter 36 Nico Robin Joins the Fray

This figure was not unfamiliar to Lin Yi, but this familiarity did not stem from any encounter in real life, but rather from a deep impression left by watching anime before he transmigrated. It was a character he greatly admired, whose image had left a lasting impression on him.

A genuine smile involuntarily appeared on Lin Yi's face. Without hesitation, he strode briskly towards the coffee shop filled with the rich aroma of coffee.

After entering the coffee shop, Lin Yi first went to the counter to order a cup of fragrant coffee, and then walked over to the location of the figure with ease and sat down next to the other person.

Faced with Lin Yi's sudden appearance, the woman showed no surprise or astonishment, as if everything was expected. She simply turned her gaze from the window to Lin Yi beside her.

"How did you recognize me?" With these gentle words, the person revealed a charming and beautiful smile and asked softly.

Hearing this, Lin Yi smiled slightly and replied, "I've been following your affairs, but to be honest, I really didn't expect to meet you here, Nicole Robin."

Indeed, the woman before them was none other than the legendary Demon Child—Nicole Robin. Ever since Lin Yi and his companions set foot on the land of Alabasta, she had remained hidden in the shadows like a ghost, silently following in their footsteps. And at this moment, she was clearly waiting here specifically for Lin Yi's arrival.

Upon hearing this, a faint smile slowly bloomed on Nicole Robin's beautiful face. She wore a black, form-fitting bodycon dress that perfectly accentuated her graceful figure. However, this smile carried a touch of melancholy, as if bearing endless sorrow and grief.

The smile didn't last long before it vanished. Then, her deep, pool-like eyes fixed intently on Lin Yi, her expression becoming incredibly serious. She whispered, "Thank you, Lin Yi." Those simple words, spoken by her, were so sincere and moving.

Lin Yi was well aware of the gratitude she was expressing, but he gently shook his head, a faint smile playing on his lips, and replied, "You don't need to thank me. It was just a little bit of personal resentment on my part."

"Even so, I must, on behalf of the innocent civilians of Ohara who perished, sincerely thank you. Without your courage and bravery, they might have had to wait an unknown amount of time to find peace, or perhaps they would have been forever forgotten in the annals of history." Although more than a decade has passed since that tragic event, those horrific scenes still frequently resurface in her mind. Whenever she recalls that dark past, waves of pain, anger, and helplessness wash over her.

At this moment, as she revisited this painful past, she could no longer suppress the surging emotions within her. Tears streamed down her face like a burst dam. She involuntarily buried her face in her hands on the table before her, her body trembling with sobs. Her cries echoed in the silent space, heartbreaking to hear.

For over a decade, she was constantly on the run, fleeing for her life. Along the way, she endured countless hardships and dangers, and suffered numerous betrayals and deceptions. These painful experiences gradually made her realize that the world is full of dangers and untrustworthy people. This forced her to learn to use a strong exterior to disguise her fragile heart.

However, today, when she faced Lin Yi, for some reason, the emotions that had been suppressed deep within her for so long suddenly surged forth like a flood bursting its banks. Nicole Robin could no longer pretend; she tore off the mask she had worn for so long, turning all the grievances and pain she had endured over the past ten years into tears, letting them flow freely.

Amidst sobs, the images of her departed relatives and friends surfaced one after another in her mind. She softly murmured their names: "Mom... Doctor... Saul..." With each name uttered, the grief in her heart intensified.

Lin Yi sat quietly to the side, silently watching Robin weep. He didn't offer any words of comfort, knowing full well that words would be futile at such times. Everyone's inner wounds need time to heal, and all others can offer is quiet companionship.

Time seemed to stand still, with only Robin's intermittent sobs remaining. After an unknown amount of time, Robin finally stopped crying. Just then, Lin Yi handed her a tissue. Robin took the tissue and whispered, "Thank you."

Once Robin had calmed down, Lin Yi slowly asked, "So, what are your plans next? How about joining my fleet? We happen to be lacking an archaeologist as excellent as you. Besides, my companions are all very interesting and trustworthy people!" After saying that, Lin Yi looked at Robin with a smile, his eyes revealing sincerity and expectation.

Robin slowly raised his eyes, his gaze falling on Lin Yi, whose smile was as bright as the sun.

At that moment, an indescribable sense of warmth and security welled up in her heart, as if the whole world had brightened. She couldn't help but break into a radiant smile, a smile as beautiful and captivating as a flower blooming in spring. She gracefully extended her slender, white hands, as exquisite as works of art, and softly said, "I look forward to your guidance in the future, Captain."

Seeing Robin so readily agree to board the ship, Lin Yi's face immediately lit up with excitement and joy. He quickly extended a large hand and firmly grasped Robin's outstretched hand, responding cheerfully, "Haha, a warm welcome to you, beautiful scholar! With a clever and knowledgeable companion like you, our adventure will surely be even more exciting and fun!"

For the next while, Lin Yi and Robin chatted happily, sharing their experiences and stories. When Robin learned that Lin Yi's purpose in traveling to the Alabasta Kingdom was to decipher a Poneglyph, her already bright eyes instantly lit up with excitement, and her smile grew even brighter. She looked at Lin Yi expectantly and earnestly pleaded, "Captain, could you take me with you? You know, deciphering all the Poneglyphs in the world has always been my dream. Seeing this precious Poneglyph with my own eyes would be a rare opportunity for me!"

Faced with Robin's eager eyes and sincere request, Lin Yi did not hesitate at all. He smiled and nodded, replying gently, "Of course, to be honest, without you we wouldn't be able to understand those complex and difficult words in the historical text. It's fortunate to have a talented scholar like you as a colleague; perhaps we can really unlock the secrets hidden within!"

Seeing that it was almost time, Lin Yi slowly stood up, smiled slightly at Robin sitting opposite him, and said softly, "Let's go, we should go find them too." With that, he took the lead and walked out of the coffee shop.

Robin nodded and followed closely behind. After exiting the door, Lin Yi paused briefly, sensing the location of Da Pan and the others. A moment later, a smile appeared on his lips as he turned to Robin and said, "I already know where they are. Follow me." With that, he began walking towards their destination.

Meanwhile, at the other end of the street, Felina and several other girls were gathered together, excitedly selecting exquisite trinkets from the stalls. They carefully examined the items in their hands, chatting animatedly, their clear, melodious laughter rising and falling like a flock of cheerful birds frolicking on a branch. These energetic and vibrant girls undoubtedly added even more life and dynamism to the already bustling street.

Not long after, Lin Yi led Robin to the tavern where Da Pan and the others were drinking merrily. Lin Yi gently pushed open the slightly worn wooden door, and instantly, a cacophony of noise surged in like a tidal wave. Inside the tavern, smoke swirled and voices clamored; the guests were either laughing loudly or drinking heartily, creating a lively atmosphere.

Da Pan was raising his wine glass, ready to down it in one gulp, when he caught a glimpse of a figure appearing at the door. Looking closer, he saw it was Lin Yi, followed closely by a beautiful, unfamiliar woman. Da Pan was momentarily stunned, his hand stopping in its tracks. But only for a second, before he recovered, a bright smile spreading across his face. "Brother! Who is this pretty young lady?" he asked.

Lin Yi, with a smile on his face, slowly walked over and sat down next to Da Pan. Then, he patted Robin on the shoulder and introduced her to everyone, "This is Nicole Robin. From today onwards, she's a member of our ship. Don't underestimate her; she's quite an accomplished archaeologist!"

Upon hearing this, Da Pan, Simon, Dota, and Kerry all expressed their great welcome to Robin's joining.