Chapter 19

After acquiring the Devil Fruit, Arthur returned to the small restaurant and enjoyed a satisfying meal. Following that, he visited the local library in search of a Devil Fruit diagram. However, despite his efforts, he couldn't find any such books.

"It seems Devil Fruit illustrations are only found in prestigious families with a long history. Ordinary libraries don't have them," Arthur remarked to himself. Although uncertain about the specific fruit he obtained, he believed it to be a Paramecia type.

With his meal finished and no further shopping plans, Arthur decided to purchase a permanent pointer to the small garden from a marine tool shop before heading back to his boat.

However, as he prepared to depart, Arthur's expression turned serious, his brow furrowing in concern.

As a strong aura rapidly approached, Arthur sensed the presence and speculated it to be Crocodile.

"Is it Crocodile?" Arthur concentrated on his perception, analyzing the feedback.

The approaching aura didn't resemble a human form; instead, it seemed like a half-being, partially scattered in the sand.

"It's definitely him! Is this fruit so crucial, or is he shameless enough to steal from me?" Arthur pondered, his confidence unshaken.

Being a Logia user himself, Arthur wasn't easily intimidated. Moreover, he believed his abilities surpassed Crocodile's.

"I wonder if Crocodile has mastered Armament Haki. I must remain cautious," Arthur muttered, acknowledging the uncertainty around Crocodile's Haki proficiency. Although Crocodile hadn't displayed Armament Haki previously, Arthur considered the possibility given Crocodile's experiences in the New World and encounters with formidable opponents like Whitebeard. He reminded himself that this was reality, not just a dramatic comic.

Arthur ceased using Observation Haki as Crocodile drew nearer, likely within 20 kilometers of the city. Instead, he maintained his visual and auditory senses within a reasonable range of about 30 kilometers in diameter, ensuring he had ample time to react to any potential threats.

Teleporting back to his ship, Arthur retrieved a three-pointed two-edged knife from a hidden compartment in the wall, preparing for a potential confrontation.

Before leaving, Arthur paused, realizing he lacked the typical attire of this world—a cloak. Considering Crocodile's distinctive coat, Arthur grabbed a black cloak and adorned it with a chain of gold jewelry, fastening it securely around his body.

Teleporting out of his boat, Arthur headed towards Crocodile's location. Five kilometers outside the port city, thunder and lightning gathered, coalescing into Arthur's form.

As Arthur materialized, he flew towards Crocodile and halted abruptly. Crocodile, with sand condensed into his lower body, turned around and asked, "You're the one who stole the Fried-Fried Fruit, aren't you?"

Arthur faced the renowned character, nodding confidently. "Yes, I snatched it when I had the chance."

"Huh!" Crocodile's expression darkened, half of his face cloaked in shadow due to the sun's angle, giving him a menacing appearance.

Suddenly, Crocodile's arm transformed, piercing Arthur diagonally from behind.

Arthur felt the impact as he was split into two from his right shoulder to his left waist.

"You're quite audacious," Arthur remarked coolly, holding his three-pointed two-edged knife as he faced Crocodile with a stoic expression.

"Indeed, you've lucked out by consuming the legendary Thunder Fruit," Crocodile remarked, acknowledging Arthur's newfound abilities. "But daring to steal from me with that Thunder Fruit of yours!"

Crocodile observed that Arthur remained unharmed despite the attack, his body partially surrounded by lightning, confirming Crocodile's suspicions about Arthur's powers.

However, for Crocodile, losing the fruit was more of an annoyance than a dire concern, especially considering the potential identity of the thief.

"Luck plays a part in strength, doesn't it? You acquired the Sand-Sand Fruit through luck, after all. But I must say, your Thunder Fruit leaves much to be desired," Arthur retorted, subtly relieved that his body had swiftly regenerated from the attack.

With a quick reaction and elemental transformation, Arthur was prepared for Crocodile's next move, despite lacking Armament Haki. He remained cautious, considering the unpredictable nature of encounters in the New World.

"Ha! You're just a cocky brat!" Crocodile snorted, preparing to strike.

"Let me show you a little trick! Ten million volts, Thunder God's Wrath!" Arthur shouted, conjuring two thunder beams resembling thick adult arms that shot toward Crocodile with incredible speed.