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Chapter Text

Louguetown-2 years before the Pirate King's execution

A young (Y/N) stood in front of a tree that had broken bark as a result of you punching it with your fists. You didn't notice some of the blood on your knuckles or the splinters. The thoughts and emotions in your heart hurt more.

'Stupid kids. Stupid adults. Stupid Loguetown...they'll see.' (Y/N) thought with a bitten lip as your shoulders shook, tears slowly coming down your face even though you tried to fight them.

'When will they see...?' You thought dejectedly.

"Hey! You!" A boys voice called out to her, causing you to tense, as you quickly wiped your face and turned towards the boy who already had a mean scowl on his face.

You glared at the preteen boy. 'Great. Another one.'

"What? Your friends wasn't enough? You're going to bully me too?!" You yelled with clenched fists, ready to defend yourself as best as you can from the older kid.

The boy's scowl deepened, but his eyes had a look of mild confusion.

"Why the hell would I bully a little girl like you?!" He yelled out.

Your eyes turned to fiery determination.
"This weak little girl is going to be a marine! Even stronger then you!" You announced as the boy gave you a childish glare but stopped himself as he seemed to see your injuries all around your body for the first time. You knew what he was looking at.

The scrapes. The cuts. The scabs.

"How hard were you training?" He asked, causing your eyes to darken.

"It wasn't from training." The boy rose an eyebrow as you continued. "It was from people who bullied me because of what I am." You answered. The boy frowned as he asked on what is she.

"I'm a pirates child." You replied coldly, but with a hint of sadness as you looked down.

'He's going to hate me too. He's going to leave. And then he's going to come with more kids to hurt me. He's going to—'

"So what?"

Your eyes widened. You looked up at the boy who stared at you casually and evenly. No fear. No disgust.

"Who cares what you are, you said you wanted to be a marine right? That proves those bastards wrong." He said with his brown eyes boring into yours.

He's... He doesn't care?

"Then what's your dream?" You asked the bad mouthed preteen, who looked to the side.

"I want to be a marine." He muttered.

You then gave a good natured laugh, making your sides hurt and your cheeks swell, noting that you haven't laughed this much in awhile as tears of sadness quickly turned to tears of joy as they fell.

"I-I didn't know that bad boys like you would want to become a marine." You commented between laughter, only laughing harder when you spotted a full flush on his cheeks from a mixture of embarrassment and anger.

"What's that supposed to mean?!"

He bantered back with a scowl, you having a smile on your face throughout the whole exchange. A strong friendship began.

.

.

.

Chapter Text

~21 years later~

A lone and small rowboat with a makeshift mast slowly moved across the waters outside of the country Alabasta, sailing away from said country of the desert and north of the porttown of Nanohana. A twenty-eight year old woman laid down against the mast with arms crossed behind her head, looking up at the sky with a Marine cap covering her eyes. But you can see her mouth turned down to a slight frown. One large black sword was on her back almost engulfing her fully due to the size, the sun's rays making it glint silver. Seeming to share its master's agitation. While one significantly smaller sword was on her hip. A messy scar running down from an inch below her left eye and stopping right on the corner of her turned down mouth.

Stupid Crocodile.

The woman thought as her brows furrowed.

"Heeyyyyyyyy!"

She turned her head and saw a boat with a figurehead of a goat, a young boy waving his arms back and forth, a familiar hat on his head. The woman immediately sat up once she saw the straw hat, and waited for the boat to come near her with attentive eyes.

The boat of the rookie Straw Hat Pirates, she thought with an inside grin.

They got close, and the boy with the familiar straw hat, Monkey D. Luffy, leaned forward from his seat on the figurehead.

"Hey lady, did you come from Alabasta?"

She smiled at him and replied that she did indeed 'Monkey D. Luffy'.

The boy blinked and smiled widely.

"You know who I am?" By this point, some of the other straw hats got closer to the woman and watched. Muttering to themselves about another weirdo lost without a ship and they should be careful outside of your hearing range.

"Yup~. I've heard a lot about you from Shanks. He always talked about you."

Luffy's eyes turned wide in happiness as his smile seemed to engulf his whole face.

"Whoa! You know Shanks? How is he?"

She giggled at him. She was everything that Shanks told her he was. Such a sweet kid, with a heavy destiny on his head.

"He's fine. And he's waiting." She said with a knowing smile. She suddenly heard a noise on the boat and moved her head towards it. The crew looked at it as well, at what seemed to be a boy with a long nose shaking in fear in the floor.

Uh oh.

"L-Luffy! Get away from her!"

Luffy tilted his head innocently and saying why.

"Cause she's the 'Ex-Marine Silver Blood

(Y/N)! She's defeated pirates and marines alike! She doesn't care who's in her way!" Some of the crew gasped or made noises of shock.

Oh shit. You thought with a sweatdrop as the situation escalated.

"Didn't she fight a Warlord of the Sea as well?"

"She also always left a bloody mess of her victims, who only saw a flicker of silver until they died! Hence her name 'Silver Blood!"

By this point, all of them were looking at you warily. Some already wanting to get their weapons out. A certain green haired one looking at you carefully, and seemed to be eyeing your buster sword on your back.

You frowned and pouted.

"That isn't very nice."

"YOU'RE NOT SUPPOSED TO POUT!" Three yelled at you as you laughed sheepishly and  scratched your nose. You looked at Luffy and saw him staring at you, an unreadable look on his face.

You grinned at him.

"Well? What do you think, Future Pirate King?"

His face brightened and he announced that she was a good person, with his crew yelling at him on how crazy he was. Him just laughing a unique laugh in response.

You decided to take a closer look at the Straw Hats. And so you suddenly jumped from your small boat to the railing of their ship. Causing some of the crew mates to shriek in surprise and fear.

"Pfft! You guys are funny when scared." You said with an amused smile as you looked at them. Your eyes then began to assess as you carefully looked at them. You already knew that Luffy would indeed be the one to become Pirate King, if Shanks turned a Yonko with the hat than this boy can do great things too. You also saw it in his eyes. But, you want to see the future Pirate King's crew. Your (e/c) eyes stopped on a green haired swordsman.

"Ah, Roronoa Zoro. Nice to see a fellow swordsman." He looked at you with careful eyes as he then glanced at the famous sword on your back once again."Oh, sorry. I only like taking out Kuroi ten'nosabaki (*Black Heaven's Judgment) when I fight seriously. But I can show you a little part of the blade if you want?" You suggested.

"The famous sword made by Silver of the Molten Metal." Zoro's hand tightened on his hilt as an excited grin appeared on his face. Your eyes flashing in remembrance at someone else who gets excited for a challenge. "I always wanted to swap blows with that blade. And the wielder, Silver's daughter. Let's—" just when Zoro was going to take out his katana a blond smoking man kicked towards him causing Zoro to curse and dodge.

"What the hell was that for you Pervy Cook?!" Zoro yelled at the blond man who glared towards him.

"Stupid Marimo! Like I would allow you to attack a woman in front of me!" He shouted at Zoro, with some other crew members joining in as they scolded the green haired swordsman.

You internally sighed, thankful someone else interrupted the swordsman before you had to. You praised the young man for his courage and determination though.  Not many would openly challenge you. With knowing who you are anyways, and those who did challenge you were mostly idiots. But you should stop his crew from yelling at him, he's had enough.

You cleared your throat, causing them to stop and look at you.

"I want to hear your dreams. From all of you, if you are willing." You said as you looked at the whole Straw Hat crew.

"Why should we?" Zoro asked, eyes narrowed in suspicion and crossed arms. "We don't know you besides your reputation. Despite if Luffy likes you or not, that doesn't mean we have to do the same. We don't even know why you were—"

"I-I want to cure any disease!" A squeaky cute voice said, you looked down. A reindeer shakily looking at you as he hid behind the green haired swordsman, although it was a poor position, since his whole body was sticking out.

Your eyes softened as you squatted on the railings, an easy smile on your lips.

"Yeah? I bet you will. What's your name?"

"You don't have to answer that." Zoro stated to the reindeer, eyes still narrowed at you. The reindeer blinked up at him before turning towards you, hooves flexing against the swords man's pants leg. And than a leg was lifted up and a sword drawn and they met.

"Don't be so rude to the lady here, Marimo!" The blonde with the swirly brow snapped before moving towards you, his legs also seeming to swirl oddly as his whole expression changed to a...you could only call it a lovesick smile. He grabbed your hand that was on your knees, eyes in hearts as you stared awkwardly. This was new. "I'm Sanji, and I'm going to find the All Blue, sweet (Y/N)-chwan! But your smile seems to be as beautiful as those waters!"

"You don't even know if the waters are beautiful," Zoro cut in with a drawl. "You haven't seen them, Idiot Cook."

Sanji let go of your hand and snapped towards the bounty Hunter. "Shut up, Algae Head!"

"What'd ya say?!" Zoro snapped back as the two seemed to bump heads while the crew looked on with Luffy laughing without a care to the situation.

"My name is Monkey D. Luffy and I'm gonna become Pirate King!" Luffy shouted easily and a wide grin, uncaring about his fellow crew members.

Your smile lifted up. "Yeah I know."

You noticed the crew was still hesitating as Zoro and Sanji snapped with Luffy just smiling to himself. You stood on the railing, deciding what to do as they looked up at you warily.

"How about this than," You put your thumb to your chest and a hand to your hip as your smile turned into a toothy grin. "I'm (Y/N)! And I'm going to be the strongest woman in the world! Everybody will know my name and never forget it." Your grin turned into a proud smirk, and the crew looked up at you. Eyes flickering as they saw how confident you were at spouting it, a woman of dreams.

"I—I—I'm going to..." You turned to see the long-nosed boy speaking, waiting patiently as his legs shook as you stared at him but pushing through. "I'm going t-to be a brave man in the sea! I'm C-Captain Usopp and I have eight thousand men under me—"

He looks familiar, you thought as you stared as Usopp went on about the many men and ships he has and he just has to call them and they'll come right here if you do anything. You scratched the back of your head and than gasped, making Usopp immediately stop as you pointed at him with a surprised smile.

"Usopp! Is your dad Yasopp?" Usopp's eyes widened as you continued, the air around you friendly and inviting. It reminded him of something too but he doesn't know what. "Man, that guy...he sure loves talking about you. And one of the best snipers in all these seas! Which makes sense since—" you gave a blinding close eyed smile, a slight flush on your cheeks,"he is a part of Shanks crew! You guys have to become the best to beat him. They're pretty powerful and scary." You opened your eyes and zeroed in on Luffy, his grin widening and eyes shining despite your words. "Can you beat them?"

"Of course!" Luffy shouted with no hesitation whatsoever, looking at you in excitement. It made you grin in excitement too, looking at this boy. My, what is this guy gonna do next?

"Woah," Usopp started, looking at his hands with a thoughtful smile before looking at you, body less tense,"...so my dad really is the greatest huh?"

You nodded, smiling down at the boy. But the feeling of familiarity never left. Mmm...I guess he looks a lot like his dad. That must be it.

You turned towards the orange-haired girl who stared at you with brows furrowed, hand on her hips. Her also glancing at the ones you've won over before turning back to you, hesitation in her mocha brown eyes. You spotted the log pose around her wrist.

"You must be the navigator," the girl blinked as you went on. "What's your dream? Gotta be grand like being brave, being a king, being the best doctor, and finding the seas that meet." Her eyes slightly narrowed before lifting up her chin with a playful smirk.

"Going to draw the map of the whole world. Nothing more or nothing less. My name is also Nami." She held her hand out expectantly as you looked down in confusion. "That would be five thousand beli for my name and ten thousand for my dream."

"Ehhhh?!" You shouted, eyes bulging out slightly as you held your head. Usopp commenting in the background that Nami charged more for her dream but not her name when the name is more dangerous for you to know. "I didn't know you were gonna charge me for that! That's a lot of money, you know! Might as well be the world's best hustler while you're at it!"

Nami's smirk widened as her eyes turned half lidded in confidence.

"Oh, you think so?"

"My n-name is Chopper!" You blinked and turned down to the reindeer lowering your arms, who now stood in front of you and was looking up at you. His eyes still holding fear but not as much as before. "You...really think I can cure any disease in the world one day...?"

You tilted your head at him, looking at him oddly.

"Didn't you say you would?"

"I—" Chopper blinked up at you, cute small brows coming together. "Y-yes, I did!"

"Than you will. If you're gonna do it, you're gonna do it."

Chopper brightened and seemed to flush and started to due a weird dance in front of you.

"S-Saying that kind of stuff doesn't make me h-happy, you bastard!"

You chuckled. Someone doesn't receive compliments well, you noticed. And he's so cute!

You turned towards the green haired swordsman once more, who eventually stopped fighting Sanji and now stood with crossed arms and was leaning against the mast of the ship. You stared at each other in silence, waiting expectantly. He scoffed and turned his head away from you.

Ah, it's like that than?

You moved your head to greet the pretty blue-haired girl with the duck when your ears twitched.

"I'm going to be the world's greatest swordsman."

You glanced back at Zoro, who was not looking at you and you couldn't see his face since it was turned away. You stared at him for a moment before smirk slowly formed on your face as you hummed approvingly before looking back at the blue haired girl who was squinting her eyes at you.

Don't recognize me please.

"And you little miss?" You asked, her blinking out of her stupor. Her hand going to her chest as she looked down before staring back up at you, a glint in her eyes.

"Someone that can make my countrymen proud and who I can protect."

Your smirk turned into a thoughtful one, your eyes flicking with an emotion that was too quick for her to catch. You fixed yourself before looking at each crew member with a lop-sided grin.

"A perfect crew for the perfect Pirate King. Well done, I wouldn't expect any less."

Luffy laughed.

But, there was something you noticed. Your eyes went back to a blue haired girl by the duck.

"But, what's a princess doing on a pirate ship?"

They immediately tensed except for Luffy who just looked a mix of surprise and amazement.

"Whoa?! How'd you know?!" The captain of the Straw Hats yelled as Zoro pointed his sword to your neck with narrowed eyes, while the shaking Usopp had his slingshot on the ready. You looked at the princess who was shocked and a little frightened. Seeming to not care about the dangerous weapon near your skin.

"I knew you seemed to be trouble," Zoro stated with sharp eyes, moving his Kitetsu closer to your neck threateningly, Kitetsu flashing along with it's owner.

You didn't care for how it touched your neck either. Kuroi ten'nosabaki seeming to glint back at Kitetsu without being drawn, in challenge.

"I suggest for you to leave Alabasta. It's gotten hectic over there." You said matter of factly, observant eyes on the girl. She, who you know as the princess of this country—Vivi, furrowed her brows.

"I have to go. They're my people. But...what do you mean by hectic?" The princess hesitantly questioned.

Your (e/c) eyes looked evenly at her. "It just is." You began, "I've been to this island countless times throughout the years. Before odd things started to occur, or perhaps, just when they started. There are tensions everywhere it's like..." Your mouth turned down slightly at the thought, a rising suspicion coming up from your gut as you spoke the next word.

"War."

What have you done, Crocodile? You thought as your frown deepened. Damn it, you grumpy Croc.

Vivi's brows turned down at the information, her glancing at the other members of the crew. They all had determination written on their faces. Something you immediately saw and internally smirked at. They were already aware, but they wanted to go anyway.

Vivi glanced back at you, determination in her own features as she clenched her fists.

"Then I have to save them."

What a crew. You thought as you appraised them. You stopped and smiled at the princess, telling her she was very brave and strong. The princess only blushing and saying a thank you in response with Zoro slowly lowering his sword and Usopp following the same with his slingshot. Luffy then asked you if you were a part of Shanks crew, you replying no but he offered.

As well as someone else.

Luffy pouted.

"Awww, I was going to ask you to join my crew. You look strong lady!"

You smiled.

"Just call me (Y/N). And sorry, I'm more of a 'lone wolf' kinda gal."

Luffy looked at you confused.

"What's that? You're a wolf?!" He looked at you with a bright and excited grin. And you couldn't help but laugh at him while his crew mates corrected him.

"No, she just prefers her own company you idiot captain. It's a..." Zoro stopped as his brows furrowed in hard concentration as he tried to search the word. Only to have Nami deadpan and sigh at him.

"An idiom. It's an idiom Zoro." He looked at the strawberry blonde with a small tick mark as he yelled "I knew that!".

Luffy looked back you again with a tilted head.

"Huh? But doesn't it get lonely?"

Your smile faltered slightly. "Only sometimes." You replied shortly.

Your reasons of being alone was more fear and paranoia then anything else. And you wouldn't speak to anyone about it. They wouldn't understand.

"Well (Y/N) ," you looked up at Luffy who had a smile, "you're always welcome here if ya get lonely!" And he gave you an innocent and bright grin at you as you gave a wide eyed stare. And you couldn't help but remember those same words that was spoken to you years ago by the one you admire and respect the most.

"You are always welcome on this ship."

Shanks.

You chuckled, a slight blush on your cheeks at the memory. And you patted the young boys head gently. Commenting at how he was a good kid and how he reminded you of Shanks. The crew mates commented to themselves on how you didn't seem like everything they heard, with Zoro saying that you were indeed strong. Giving off somewhat of the same aura as Hawkeyes Mihawk.

Your ears caught those words, as you turned your attention back towards them. You opening your mouth before deciding the better of it.

"Ah, Mihawk? He was my master."

Zoro widened his eyes as his hand drifted towards his hilt again as he walked to you with new fervor.

You think you weren't supposed to say that.

"Zoro! Stop!" Nami shouted at him with agitation, as Usopp yelled as well with some stuttering as he tried to hold back the swordsman. "Y-you should listen to her! Haven't you h-heard how strong she is? Don't you remember what happened at Baratie?" Zoro stopped his movements altogether as an emotion flicked through his eyes, something you didn't miss with your observant orbs, him putting away his sword slowly with a mild scowl on his face.

"Yeah. I know." Zoro gritted out, but the blond— Sanji, who dreamed to find the All Blue—wasn't having it.

"Stupid Marimo! You try to hurt a beautiful woman again and I'll kick your ass!" He yelled in irritation as you blinked at him. You felt touched by his compliment and gave your thanks, only for him to suddenly turn to you with heart eyes.

"You are welcome (Y/N)-chan~!" Sanji yelled as he seemed to come towards you with a love tornado.

You sweatdropped. Than turned towards Zoro who was glaring at Sanji with irritation forming his features, his eyes turning towards you when felt your gaze.

"Your dream," Zoro eyes hardened as you continued, "It will take a lot of work. I was lucky to be trained by Mihawk, and yet I'm still not in his league." You rose a brow at the young swordsman, his lips set in a straight line. "You're going to eventually have to surpass me. Can you surpass him?"

A beat passed. Zoro put a hand to his hilt, but you did not stray from the swordsman's face.

"That just means I have to work harder than you." Zoro retorted, a challenging smirk on his lips. "That man...I'll be the world's greatest swordsman. Didn't you hear me when I said it?"

"Pfft!" You snorted, smirk back on your face as you appraised him once more. "Heh, I guess so."

You then looked at the sky and commented that you guessed you should leave them alone now.

"Wha?! Why?!" Luffy whines with a pout. "I want to hear more about Shanks!"

"Mmmm," You hummed in thought, eyes turning back towards the desert island you just left. Thoughts going a mile a minute as you tried to come to a decision.

"Leave her alone, Luffy." Nami interjected. "I'm sure she's busy with other things. We shouldn't bother her."

"Nami's right," Vivi, this princess that seems kind-hearted and brave to help her country., agreed. She turned her kind eyes towards you and you felt something turn in your stomach at the apologetic look she was giving you. "Thank you for what you said. I appreciate it, (Y/N)-San. Best you leave now to avoid what's gonna happen, yes?"

Your jaw tightened.

Usopp gave a nod, as he fixed the goggles on his head, shakily. It seems he was still scared. "T-thats right! I-it's best i-if you leave now. M-Marines are gonna be a-after us so we don't want you to get caught."

"It looks like you do," Zoro pointed out with Usopp moving towards him with his finger to his lips as he shushed the swordsman.

You blinked.

"Marines?" You questioned.

"Eh?" Luffy rubbed the back of his head in confusion. "I didn't see any marines... it was just that Okama guy."

Usopp turned towards Luffy, sweating. He put an arm around Luffy as he laughed harshly. Perhaps a little too harsh.

"A-Ahhh, Luffy! It was...you know!" Usopp stuttered, squeezing his arm around Luffy's neck as he looked at his long noses friend in bewilderment. Zoro muttering about what he's doing and Sanji palming his face, with Nami looking at him unimpressed with crossed arms. Chopper seeming to believe the sniper's words as he hurried back and forth around the ship to see a navy ship out in the distance. "Er...Oh! It was that smoke guy! W-we don't want you to get c-caught by this scary smoke guy marine, terrifying—I mean, uh, miss Silver Blood, ma'm."

You immediately perked up at that, as you finally landed on the floor of the ship with eager eyes. Making Usopp shriek and let go of Luffy, his butt to the floor in surprise.

"Do you mean Captain Smoker?"

"Oh." Luffy made a face, his tongue sticking out. "That guy."

"Smoker...?" Chopper echoed, hoof to his mouth in confusion. Zoro giving the reindeer a quick run down it's a marine they met before.

"E-ehhh?!" Usopp yelped from the floor, pushing himself up as he stared at you, now define you within the ship and not far away like he wanted. "Y-you know him?!"

"Ah." Your gaze turned distant, your smile weak, "He's my Nakama ever since we were children and we trained together when I was still a marine. That was good times..."

"Eh?!",Usopp exclaimed in confusion," How is a deadly-I-I mean," Usopp quickly corrected himself in fright," friendly pirate like you Nakama with a marine?" The other members giving you odd looks with his statement.

Your eyes turned soft as you touched and rubbed the rim of your Marine cap fondly. Remembering of times long past and lost to time.

"With Nakama, it doesn't matter what side they're in. You're Nakama, and always will be."

Luffy gave you bright grin and gave off an odd laugh as the crew looked at you with less tension in their shoulders before, seeing that you were nothing the rumors claimed you to be. You commented that despite this, Smoker has always been trying to catch you. While you just liked to laugh and tease him as he tried to do it. You loved it when the both of you meet. It reminded you of the old times. Before—

"What's this? The pirate's daughter finally showing her true colors?" A smooth dark voice said mockingly.

"Can I come with you guys?" You suddenly asked. A decision reached, no matter if Usopp's words are untrue or not. Hopefully with this, with them, you can see what you've been blinded to the full extent or hidden from you.

Luffy nodded. "Yeah, sure."

"Wh-whaaaa?! Luffy!" Usopp cried out, standing up and grabbing Luffy's collar and started to shake him. "What are you doing?!"

"Why are you shaking me?!" Luffy exclaimed, grabbing Usopp's collar too. "Didn't you say you saw that guy?!"

"H-hey! We-well, I—urk!" Usopp snapped, shaking Luffy harder. "You don't get it at all!"

"Oi!" Luffy grabbed Usopp back forcefully and both of them fell to the floor. The both of them now rolling around the floor as they fought with the crew staring in different forms of exasperation.

"Sheesh. This is what you get," Zoro stated, moving back towards training some till they arrive to the shores of Alabasta. Uncaring of your presence now as you stared at Luffy and Usopp continuing to fight with an amused grin.

"Ah, let me help you with your boat, (Y/N)-chwan." Sanji stated, moving towards by the railing of the caravel ship and jumping down to your small boat to attach ropes to theirs. You letting him as you gave him your thanks, eyes straying towards his lifted brows due to his smile before looking back at his eyes. Him giving a little twirl as he jumped back onto the ship. "It's no trouble at all, (Y/N)-chwan! So polite and kind!"

You sweatdropped.

"Ahhhh...I'm really not," You tried to correct the cook but he already walked away stating he's gotta figure out how to feed their guest without food due to his idiot captain. "You don't gotta feed me! I actually ate before I...he's gone."

"Don't mind him," Nami came to your side with a half-smile. At ease with the chaos around her as she looked at the sky to check the weather for a moment before turning back towards you. "Sanji-kun is just like that to every woman he sees. We're actually going to stop by Nanohana. You said you've been to this country a lot, that means you know your way around right?"

You rose a confused brow at her odd tone.

"If I say yes, does that mean my debt is cleared?"

"Well look at you!" Nami said with crossed arms, her half smile rising to a playful smirk. "I'll give you fifty percent off of what you owe me if you tell us where we can go to get what we need."

"Eh?! Why not all of it?!"

"That's an additional thousand belis for trying to hard bargain me."

"Oi!" Your face twisted into one of disbelief and a light scowl. "You really are gonna be the best hustler out there too huh?!"

"You should just stop," you turned your gaze towards Zoro, who was training with weights  now as he moved them up and down near the entrance to what you guessed was the storage room of the ship. Moving a couple steps to the side as needed when Luffy and Usopp rolled towards him. "She's a witch. She'll keep going if you don't stay quiet."

"That's an additional twenty thousand for trying to help, Zoro." Zoro blanched at the strawberry's blonds words before she turned back towards you with a greedy grin. "And another ten thousand for you trying to hustle a hustler."

You squawked as you pointed animatedly.

"So you admit it?!" Nami continued to grin and you released a loud sigh as you rubbed the back of your head and tapped your right foot against the floorboard of the ship. "Damn. Yeah, sure. It's no problem."

Nami gave her nod and looked towards Vivi as she walked to her in the upper deck of the ship.

"You know a few spots too, Vivi-Chan?" Vivi nodding. "Ah, you can help than."

"Whaaa?!" You shouted in disbelief, straightening yourself as you snapped. "That means I just owe you money for no rea—" Nami lifted up two fingers in warning, you quickly and comically shutting your mouth up. Turning away and squatting by the mast of the ship. You heard Nami step up towards the upper deck to be by Vivi and where the wheel must be of the ship, that's usually how all ships function and are designed anyways. She must be readying the ship to land.

You turned towards Zoro who was looking up in the direction of the ship with a glower.

"You weren't kidding."

Zoro glanced towards you before staring straight ahead as he moved his heavy weights once more.

"I never kid," he said seriously and like a man who's suffered much.

You turned back towards the front of the ship and noticed the reindeer was in front of you before flinching and falling back in surprise, you quickly saving him by pulling on the pants he had.

"Woah, careful. Gotta protect that body of yours first before you try to save others, yeah?"

Chopper blinked up at you and your calming smile and gave out a strong nod.

"Y-yes! Sorry. I was just staring at..." He pointed behind your back with his hooves, where your large buster sword laid. An impressive and large sword it was, a dark midnight black, but holding a glint of a silver sheen if you moved it right. And a small half circle right tip of the circle, where you can trap someone's neck if you wanted to. The handle being a foot long, adding to your sword's impressive height. The handle holding bandages around it for your hands and hiding the odd cross cross sort of striped pattern underneath the bandages that were more like bindings. The handle ending in an oval shape with a triangular black jewel in the middle, what looked like to be black quartz smoothed out. "It's so big. It looks heavy too..."

Kuroi ten'nosabaki glinted as you grinned proudly, a hand to its handle.

"You bet it is! It took me quite a bit to finally lift this guy up, but man...when I did..." Your grin showed a lot of teeth and it looked more like a smirk, you not seeing Chopper shudder and murmur 'scary' but couldn't take his doe eyes off you. "It was the best feeling ever. I can't imagine my life without him."

"Him?" Chopper questioned, tilting his head and your smirk only widened.

"Yatta!" You turned towards Luffy that was by the bow of the ship, his hands up triumphantly and eyes closed with a large grin with Usopp on the ground rubbing his head. Luffy than opening his eyes and stretching towards you, grabbing your hand and tugging as you stared at him with wide eyes before it went away, remembering what kind of fruit the straw hat has. "Come on (Y/N)! My turn! I wanna hear more about Shanks!"

You got up at his tugging and gave a slight laugh when you got pulled to him due to his arm, patting atop his head and feeling the straw hat you haven't touched in years. Dutifully atop its new owner, who was grinning at you so wide that you wonder if there can be two suns that you know.

"Okay, okay. Only a quick one cause we're close to Nanohana."

"Awww, okay. But come over here!" Luffy tugged you closer to the bow of the ship, Luffy sitting on the figurehead in a reverse position as he looked at you expectantly. "Story! Story! Story! Has Shanks gotten stronger? Where is he now? Does he—"

You interrupted him with a laugh, your shoulders relaxing at the boy's cheerfulness and eagerness. You not being fully able to tell for a moment the difference between Shanks and Luffy at all, but you feel some difference you think.

"Okay, let's talk about the one time he was dangerously close to actually being drunk."

"Blegh, he still drinks that stuff?" Nonetheless Luffy leaned closer to you, eyes fully fixated on you as his hands held his head, elbows against the railing.

"Heh. Don't like the stuff either myself." You agreed with his noise of disgust, you smiling when Luffy quickly corrected himself and saying he doesn't like it but he's still a man. "We were in a frontier type of island called Smirnoff and..."

Luffy leaned and listened as you went on, a gleam in his eyes and his grin never fading as he gave his own comments. Sometimes making you laugh or you laughing as you went on with the story, the other Straw Hats hearing here and there as you spoke. Making their own observations as the famed dangerous woman smiled easily and not caring if the others heard your loud laughs.

"What?!" Luffy exclaimed as you told him about how Shanks drunk two whole barrels of rum dry by himself. You laughed at the memory.

"Yeah, you wouldn't believe what he did next—" You continued to tell Luffy as the crew mates watched and commented to themselves from a distance.

"She seems to admire that Shanks person almost as much as Luffy." Zoro commented as they all saw that your smile hasn't left your face once as you continued to talk excitedly about him.

Chopper blinked as he looked on. "You guys think (Y/N) likes him?" He questioned innocently. The crew looked at the reindeer, and then back at the laughing duo. They noticed a flush on your cheeks, and a happy gleam in your eyes as you spoke about the Yonko who made their captain dream and want to take it with an ever stretching, never planning to let go just like he didn't plan to let go any one of them.

Nami grinned to herself at the information as she put that little bit of info in the back of her mind, and to make sure to remember it. The strawberry blonde then smiled softly at Silver Blood and her captain, the crew doing the same. Their opinions slowly changing. Except for one who came out from the kitchens empty.

"No~! Her heart is already taken by another man~!" Sanji exclaimed with tears of sadness running down his face.

Vivi stared thoughtfully at you, her brows slightly furrowed. Why is she getting this feeling she got from Mr. 2 again...?

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Somewhere within Rainbase Alabasta

"The 'plan' will begin at 7:00 AM, two days from now. Have you made all the arrangements?" A low voice stated as he stood by a Bananadile.

"Yes I have...150 of the Billions are on standby in Nanohana. I called back Mr. 2 as well. It seems Mr. 3 wasn't caught." A smooth mature voice replied, a woman who was stylishly dressed as she sat on the cushion chair. The man made no comment as his gaze seemed thoughtful as he glanced towards the large panned windows.

The woman smirked knowingly. "It was a close call once again with Silver Blood, yes? She almost discovered your plans. The ex-marine left more suspicious then the last time she came. What do you think...Crocodile?"

"Silver Blood left because of lack of evidence. She's not the type of woman to attack an enemy without any evidence justifying it." Crocodile rumbled calmly as he took out a cigar and lit it with practiced movement.

"What if this plan succeeds then?"

Crocodile looked up at her with eyes narrowed, "When. Not if.", he corrected her as Robin gave a small chuckle.

"Yes, my apologies. When this plan succeeds, what are you going to do in her next visit?"

Crocodile smirked as he kept his cigar loosely between his lips.

"What can she do? And besides, perhaps with this she'll join me. Open those calculative eyes of hers and not that idiotic farce she always seems to put on."  Crocodile's smirk widened as he closed his eyes. "Silver Blood will be useful. In more ways then one."

.

.

.

Edited: 01/31/21

Chapter Text

After finishing up the story with Luffy, the straw hat boy storming off with a skip in his step and a punch to his hand that'll he make even more amazing stories than Shanks will. Heading towards the kitchen in the upper deck, that also happened to be where Nami and Vivi were as Luffy started asking loudly to have a tangerine and he's hungry with Nami bonking his head in the distance and telling him they were just a few minutes away from landing to eat and Sanji cutting in and yelling at their captain to stop bothering 'Nami-swan'.

You observed this at your place by the figurehead, laying your back against the railings at the front of the ship with arms crossed behind your head and one leg over the other with a relaxed grin on your face. Seeing and observing the storm that shines bright amongst the crew, the rest at the deck with you. Zoro seeming to do a cool down of his workout for the weights were gone and he was doing one hand push-ups as he stood straight up, while Usopp and Chopper were having their own fun with storytelling.

At least...you think it was storytelling?

"What?!" Chopper yelled, eyes gleaming as the reindeer leaned closer to the sniper. "There's really flowers that can talk?! What else did they say?"

"Hmph," Usopp's head was up as he stood, a thumb to his chest, and eyes closed with a confident grin. "You bet! There's mountains and mushrooms that can talk too, it was really a strange island in my travels. You see, they were brought to life by this large witch just so she can hear their screams as she ate them!"

Chopper paled, shuddering in fear as Usopp's face darkened in dramatics.

"E-Ehhhh?! How horrible! Why would she do that?!"

Usopp neared the scared Chopper, his grin turning menacing as his eyes crinkled.

"We'll never know! She's a strange witch that just likes eating everything and anything!"

Your brows furrowed, frowning up at the sky in thought.

He's not wrong. What he's saying is not far off either, did he really meet her?

"What?! But Usopp, how did you get away?!"

"That's what I like to know," You interrupted, your feet on the railing behind Usopp making him and Chopper squawk and fall back in surprise.

"DON'T SNEAK UP ON PEOPLE!" They both yelled as they immediately got back up, one hand and one hoof in a chopping gesture. Zoro taking a glance at the trio to his right before doing his other stretches with closed eyes.

You scratched your left scarred cheek as you laughed.

"Whoops, I surprised you."

"Of course you did! Y-you came out of nowhere!" Chopper gave a forceful cute nod at Usopp's words.

"That was scary! Oh but—" Chopper blinked in realization as he calmed. "You were hearing the story too?" You nodded as you sat on the railing of the ship, your feet now in the air as you gave a short comment it sounds like an interesting story. "Woahhhhh, Usopp! You gotta tell us now! How did you get away?!"

Usopp looked side to side, seeing Chopper's innocent eyes as he leaned forward and towards you who had a hand under your left scarred cheek as you stared at him expectantly and clear intrigue.

"W-well. I-it was q-quite si-simple really...Yes...Y-yes! Very simple!"

You tilted your head.

"Eh? Really?"

Sweat started to perfuse very freely from Usopp's skin, his voice going high as he put his head back with a forced exaggerated grin. You cocked your head more curiously at that.

"R-re-really!"

"Tell us! Tell us! Tell us!" Chopper's eyes sparkled as he drew closer to Usopp. His eyes practically blinding the sniper if he looked directly at it. "It must've been the best escape ever made! Tell us, Usopp!"

"Yeah," Zoro decided to chime in, with a lifted smirk. Finished with his cool down and now just staring expectantly with one rose brow as he crossed his arms, his clothes back on. "I'm curious how it ends too."

Usopp looked like he was about to cry at the growing audience he kept getting. Your eyes turned towards Zoro's hips, Kuroi ten'nosabaki seeming to gleam in the sun in interest with you. You stepped off the railing and stepped towards Zoro who was by the door to the storage room as Usopp nervously sweated and trying not to faint as you walked passed him. Zoro's eyes flicked towards your firm, noticing you were looking at his hip.

"Whaaa, you have good swords! How exactly can you wield all three of them?"

Zoro fully turned his head towards you as Chopper said he's been wondering about it too.

"Never met a multi swordsman?"

"Nah, I have." Your face twisted slightly at the one you thought of. "There's one guy actually that can wield a lot more swords than three. I think it was...hmmmm...six? Eight? It was a lot."

Zoro's eyes widened at that, eyes filled with interest making your lips quirk slightly. Chopper's eyes widening as his jaw dropped in shock.

"Eight?! How?"

Your lips quirked as you motioned for him for them to walk to the other side of the ship, wanting Usopp and Chopper to continue their story away from overlapping chatter. Zoro following beside you.

"Ahhhh well, sort of. The guy is a huge dick but he—" The both of you walked off to the other side of the ship. Chopper turning back towards Usopp, saying almost to himself that you have interesting stories too. Chopper's eyes bulged.

"Ehhhh?! Usopp! You okay?!"

Usopp laid on the floor, a mix of relief and sadness he was feeling as he lays face down.

"Ahhh...I almost got caught...but I never had such a large audience..." Crocodile tears seemed to go down Usopp's face as Chopper panicked, moving back and forth around Usopp's body.

"Usopp! What's wrong?"

Back with you and Zoro, you told him about the swordsman that's able to wield all those swords. You leaning against the railing with your elbows and gazing out into the sea while Zoro leaned with his back, his eyes still on the deck.

"A Devil fruit huh?" Zoro stretched his arms as he gave a yawn, one eye closed lazily. "Not really talent if he can just wave those arms around and just hope to slice something."

"I wish I can say that," You replied, staring as the water moved and wondered idly about a declaration under the stars. "The bastard is actually pretty good with the blade. Wish he wasn't."

Zoro glanced down at your bitter tone, curious.

"Said he was a marine right? Did you used to work with him back when you were still with them?"

"He doesn't deserve to be called a marine." You stated coldly making Zoro blink slightly at your aura until Sanji came down the stairs, a tray with a glass of orange juice you believe.

You turned towards him as he put the tray by you with a charming smile.

"Here ya go, (Y/N)-chan. That's all we have for now. Some," He quickly glanced at Usopp and Chopper who were pointedly not looking at him and upstairs where Luffy sat on the upper railing with a confused look and Carue looking up at the sky with sweat on his feathers, " idiots decided it was a good idea to eat all the food we had left."

You took the glass with some thanks, Sanji's eyes turning hearts at your words. You took a sip and made a pleased hum, commenting it tastes fresh. Sipping some more as Zoro's eyes narrowed in suspicion at your cup while muttering 'wait'.

"Nami-swan let me use her tangerines to make it." Sanji answered, making you freeze and Zoro's mouth twisting in pity. "You love it? Your sweet words of your appreciation will be enough to sustain me until we land~."

You glanced up at the upper deck, the cup still to your mouth as you zeroed in on Nami. Seeing her give you a wink by her tangerine tree and mouthing 'two thousand beli' to you.

You choked on the drink.

"Look what you did, Curly Brow," Zoro's mouth was still twisted in pity as he gazed at you trying to recover from your violent coughing as Sanji looked at you in worry before snapping his eyes towards the swordsman at the insult. "If I was her, I wouldn't give you any words. You cursed her, idiot."

"What'd ya say?!" Sanji whirled, ticks on his face as he tightened his jaw against his cigarette. You inevitably having to take more sips from one of the most expensive drinks ever to help your throat, Luffy pouting in the background and saying you're lucky to have Nami let you have her tangerines. You muttering with your head bowed that you're not lucky at all.  "I don't wanna hear that from you of all people, Idiot Marimo!"

"Hah?!"

"Hey! Everybody heads up!" Nami called from the upper deck, her playful smile wide as you finished the orange juice. Might as well drink every last drop of this expensive drink. "Everybody get ready to dock the ship! I will have the rudder with Vivi!  Usopp, get ready with the rope! Chopper help him."

"Hai!" They both called moving at her orders as you observed.

"Zoro, fix the sails so we can slow down!" Zoro was silent as he moved—the only acknowledgement that he heard and listened. Nami turning her eyes towards the waiting Sanji who told her he's ready for her strict orders. Nami giving a wave of her hand lazily at the words. "Make sure of the supplies we need, Sanji-kun. Both what we need and what we're taking."

"Of course, Nami-swan~!" Sanji called sweetly, moving up the stairs to check the kitchen.

"Yoshhhh! I can't wait, I'm so hungry I could die!" Luffy said by the railing, smiling as he laughed his signature laugh. Turning towards Nami. "What do I do?"

"I wanna know too." You said, appearing beside them as Nami shrieked slightly. Vivi glancing out from around the corner with Carue at the sound, in worry before seeing it was you.

"Whaaaa?! Sugoi! How'd you do that (Y/N)?!"

You smirked at Luffy.

"Practice."

"DON'T DO THAT!" Nami yelled before blinking, taking note of your words. "And you don't have to do anything, you're a guest on the ship."

"I know but," You shrugged, before moving your arms behind your head and tapping the point of your boot to the floor. "I don't like being a burden. And you guys have been...errr...nice." You faltered slightly, since she did give you this debt. "I can help Luffy if ya want? Just give me something to do."

Nami's lips quirked at your words before straightening it, looking between her idiot captain and the...scary(?) ex-marine.

"Luffy, give encouragement to everyone as they do what they have to do. You can join him, (Y/N)."

You and Luffy both cocked their heads in unison and in frowns.

"Ehhh? That's boring." The both of you said before turning towards each other, Nami rolling her eyes before moving to go to the rudder. Calling Vivi with her and Carue inside to the Helm of the ship. Vivi glancing back at you two with a crinkle in between her brows.

"Ah, you copied me!" Luffy pointed at your face, making your eyes cross as you looked at it. "Shishishishi! How'd ya know what I was gonna say?"

You slightly pushed his finger away from your face, giving him a playful smirk. Luffy away from the railing as he stood in front of you, you moving your arms to your hips as you leaned forward.

"How do you know that I'm not just a mind reader?"

Luffy's eyes sparkled.

"You're a mind reader and a wolf?!"

"Pfft! Thought we cleared up I'm not an actual wolf?"

"Quick! What am I thinking?"

"Hmmm," You put a hand to your chin in thought, remembering what Luffy said as well as Sanji's glance earlier as he called some people idiots. "Food?"

"Nope!" Luffy grinned widely. "I'm thinking of meat!"

"Hey!" You pointed exaggeratedly at Luffy, your finger at his face this time. He looked at it cross eyed. "Meat is food you know! I was right!"

He uncrossed his eyes to stare straight at you, warmth seeming to engulf you as you stared.

"No, you were supposed to say meat!" Luffy than narrowed his eyes at you suspiciously. "Hey, you weren't lying about being a mind reader right? You would've known what I thought if you were! Are you like Usopp?"

"Wha—look," You starting making gestures with your hands, waving back and forth and sometimes using your pointer finger this way and that. "I knew you were hungry so I knew you wanted food. Which means you must've been thinking about food cause you really want to land to eat. I sensed you were thinking about food, and meat is food, so I was right!"

You ended with your pointer finger back in his face with a confident grin, your other hand to your hip as Luffy stared blankly with his arms to the side.

Silence reigned for a moment.

"Ah," Luffy put a pinky up his nose casually. "Mystery power than."

"...WHAT?!" You gave him a slight whack to the head, making his head lower. "What does that mean?!"

"Hey!" Luffy grabbed you with a childish glare. "Didn't you say mystery power?!" He bonked his head with yours, making one of your eyes close at how hard headed he was too.

"Ow! Why—you're touching me with the finger you put up your nose!" You moved to grab him by the neck, putting him in a head lock before he kicked feet off the ground, the momentum of his body that you were holding making the both of you fall to the ground. The both of you rolling and wrestling on the ground with childish shouts and playful whacks, yelling about mystery powers or boogers or this and that. You pulling his cheeks and him pinching your arm as he yelled that you're heavy and you yelling angrily at him if he's calling you fat.

"My, she's like Luffy..." Nami commented when she poked her head out before heading back in. Her hand to the whipstaff of the ship, letting Vivi back up from her position and moving to sit. The Princess looking through the windows as she spotted you and Luffy starting to run. "Guess that's why she feels like that."

Vivi blinked, Carue tilting his head as Sanji made his list in the background. His lips in a relaxed smile.

"Ah? Like what?"

Nami hummed, putting her index finger to her chin in thought before shrugging.

"I don't know. Either way, she seems alright. Right, Sanji-kun?"

"Hai, Hai, Nami-swan!" Sanji called back quickly with his love tornado before turning back to the list. "(Y/N)'s eyes are true! I can recognize a woman's feelings with her eyes anywhere and anytime!"

"You sure that's not something else talking, Sanji-kun?" Nami said suspiciously, Vivi turning towards Nami with a gasp and flush.

"Nami!" Nami looked at her slyly as Sanji said defensively with some stuttering that he doesn't think with anything else. "Ah...I guess I was asking...cause she kinda feels familiar..."

Nami slightly frowned in thought before looking at her worried friend.

"She said she's been here countless times. Maybe you've seen or heard of her each time she came."

"Ah, she did say that," Vivi realized. "Maybe I should ask her if she knows something about Crocodile..."

"Guess you just have to ask when we come back with the supplies," Nami said, her eyes turning towards where they're going. "Now let's land!"

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

"I think we passed it," You stated the obvious with crossed arms with Luffy next to you doing the same, the both of you staring at the large desert before them. "Maybe that ride holding onto your shirt was a bad idea..."

Luffy's eyes squinted, staring from side to side before turning back towards you with a laugh.

"You're weird (Y/N)! Didn't you say to follow you? Where's the food—ow!" Luffy's head was down as you held your hand atop his hat, making it go lower further when you pressed. "What are you doing?! Ahhhhh...all this yelling is making me more hungry..."

"I told you to follow me but you just ran off! I grabbed you so you could stop but I didn't expect you to go that fast." You snorted at the thought and speed of how they went right when they reached Nanohana and passed it completely. The poor crew must be worried. You let go of his head before you turned towards back into the direction of where they came. "It was fun though...come on. Let's find you some food, Luffy. We came from this way—"

"That way?!"

Before you could stop him, Luffy grabbed you with his rubber arm and sprinted. Him going into a random direction and you trying to stop him. But it was hard due to you laughing at the feeling like you were on a ride. Luffy looking at you weirdly and saying you're horrible at directions, with you replying—or trying to in between laughs—that he's horrible at getting them.  The both of you eventually stopping into this odd looking shack, Luffy noticing that there's smoke coming from the small shack so maybe they're making food. Your brows furrowed as Luffy dropped you, you being able to easily stay on your feet as the both of you drew closer to it.

Your eyes turned towards the large knapsacks on the left side of the house just as Luffy turned towards it, hoping it's good as he opened it.

Your eyes honed in, spotting the green powder.

"That's..." you muttered in surprise, Luffy looking at it oddly and putting his finger in it. "Luffy! Don't taste it! It's nasty!"

"Eh?" Luffy turned towards you, you behind him as your eyes turned towards the shack. Sensing someone was there. "You're probably just picky, it can't be that bad."

Your head turned towards him again, putting a hand out to try to stop him but it was too late. He spat it out exaggeratedly, you couldn't help but laugh at the face he made and his comments that it was poison.

"We need to get rid of this! It can kill somebody (Y/N)!"

"Pfft, and how do you suggest we do that—what are you doing?!" You stopped Luffy from putting all the sacks together and throwing them into the fire pit by grabbing his shoulder. "Luffy, this is Dance Powder! It's bad for the land!"

Luffy's brows furrowed as he stopped, looking down at the bags in confusion.

"Eh? Dance Powder? That's what this nasty stuff is called?" Luffy stuck out his tongue in heavy disgust. "Bleh. It's bad for people's mouths too."

You nodded, your eyes on the green powder as you clenched your jaw.

"I...I saw this used before here." You began, Luffy turning his head back towards you, eyes blank as you continued as you looked to the direction of the capitol. "It was...I don't know, two or three years ago that they found a wagon full of this in Aluburna. People blamed the king for it, cause it makes it rain only in one spot while the rest of the country suffers. I knew it was weird...I just thought—ACK!"

Your eyes bulged as Luffy put all the bags in the fire pit.

"Sounds pretty bad. Let's get rid of it than."

"Luffy! This makes the dance powder work!"

"Eh?" Luffy had a question mark appear above his head as he thought hard. "That doesn't make any sense. I'm making it go away by burning it so no one touches it!"

Thunder rolled overhead and rain started to fall over both of you. Luffy's hat dropping from the weight and force of the fake rain, your own hat managing to hold on strong as it kept most of your face dry as the rest grew soaked. You sighed.

"Ah well. What's done is done. We just question the guy in the shack now."

"There's a guy in the shack?! Do you think he has food?!" Luffy's mouth started to drool at the thought.

The door quickly opening, revealing a stout man with a sabre as he yelled in shock. Your eyes on the man and his weapon as you crossed your arms. Luffy blinking at the man.

"You burned my powder!" The man looked at all the bags that he had that have turned into mere dust. "You—gwah!" Immediately when he turned his weapon to Luffy, Luffy knocked him upside the head. The sight made you smirk, releasing an amused chuckle at the sunny storm's antics as the man and Luffy did a back and forth. The tension seeming to dissipate immediately when the man said it was his dream with all this. You spotted Luffy's face take into a surprised and apologetic note.

"Ah? This was your dream?" Luffy turned towards the bags that are now ash thoughtfully, and serious you noted. You rising a curious brow when Luffy did a half bow to the suspicious man. "I'm sorry. I didn't know."

Your jaw loosened before you flared your senses more, feeling the sunny storm deeper. Your buster sword shining in the light behind you, as your katana on your hip—Karasu—perked up a bit.

A man of dreams.

Your eyes glowed as you looked and appraised the boy once more, your gut rising in confidence as you stared at Luffy who was bowing at the man in apology who just attacked him. You not interrupting the man as he said rudely apologies does nothing, although in other circumstance you would've hit him but you wanted to see.

"Ahh, well. You can always try again right? Just gather it up again to do it?" Luffy suggested with a hand to his head, speaking words of encouragement although it would seem like dismissal to others. But no. Luffy believes that if this is this man's dreams, he shall get up and do it again.

You decided to go a little deeper.

The storm that overtakes and drops pieces of sun. A man of dreams. Will bow but not be broken. Sea lover.

Your eyes widened before calming, your smirk turning into a wide proud grin as you thought, Well, look what you found Shanks. You...Luffy is...

You stepped up toward the two, the stout man seeming to realize there was another person there as he shouted in shock.

"Ah?! Did you help him?! I'll—" Luffy bonked him in the end, face expressionless as he did so.

"Geez, old man. You're a loud weirdo too. That's just (Y/N). She didn't do anything."

You stepped up to the two of them, smiling in thanks to Luffy which he returned with a large grin that overtook his face before you turned towards the stout man. Your smile sharpening to a smirk as your cap shadowed your face slightly. The man froze as he looked up at you, your head tilted down at him.

"So, where'd ya get this huh?" You asked, tone light but holding a quality that the man recognized as a threat as his body broke in cold sweat. "You must have quite a good supplier yeah? You had a lot of bags..."

"I—look, I—I don't—please don't tell anyone about this!" The man pleaded, moving his legs underneath him as he kneeled to you and Luffy. "I'm going—they'll put me in jail for the rest of my life—! Please don't tell anyone! I'll do anything!"

You and Luffy paused, looking at each other, before a feral smile appeared on Luffy's face while a smug smirk appeared on yours.

"Feed me!"

"That," You agreed, leaning your upper body towards the man as you smirked with your shadowed face due to your cap made your (e/c) eyes shine. "And tell me who gave that to you!"

"Feed me!" Luffy repeated, his hands in the air and the man stared dumbly at the boy before turning towards you in question.

You rose a brow at him, frowning slightly as you placed a hand on Luffy's head and rubbed it. All with a serious expression.

"Yeah, feed him first. Duh. Can't you tell he's hungry?"

"Yeah, weirdo!"

"Pfft, he is pretty weird huh?" The both of you laughed and the man now stared both of you dumbly with a sweatdrop, wondering what kind of intimidators you guys are.

He quickly went inside the shack and gave Luffy a bento box of onigiri before turning towards you and stating he got all the stash from an agent of Baroque Works. Your eyes slitted at the name, remembering your suspicion from some time ago about them being so close to Alabasta and their numbers seeming to rise rapidly. You internally frowned, not knowing how to feel at how well hidden all this was from you. Either anger or impressed. Either way, you're going to have to talk to Crocodile but first...

Both you and Luffy turned towards the man, Luffy already eating an onigiri as the man called out towards them. Thanking them that they won't tell on him to the World Government.

"Ah," you grinned cheekily at him. "Didn't we say?"

"Can't do that anyways," Luffy grinned around his onigiri, rice all over his mouth. "I'm a pirate!"

The both of you turned back to head straight forward back to Nanohana, the man's jaw dropping onto the ground as he realizes he's just been tricked. You walked forward for a bit, Luffy already finished with his food and having his tongue out from the heat as he held onto a large stick he grabbed from the ground and using it as a makeshift cane. You weren't any better, you were sweating from the sweltering heat that always greeted you in this country. A fun and interesting country it may be, with its interesting food and customs, but the weather was sure horrible. You weren't really thinking much about that though.

You glanced at the panting Luffy, him trying to keep pace with you as he complained about how starving he was and how hot it is and if you're sure we're going the right way.

You slightly frowned. Worry starting to form small in your chest.

"Say, Luffy." He made a sound that could be taken as acknowledgment or a dying bird, either way, you kept going. "Back in the ship, you guys didn't seem to mind to help save Vivi's country. I can see you guys are friends, anyone could. None of you seemed to mind what I said. So...what exactly are you gonna do? Are you gonna stop the war?"

"Bleh..." Luffy panted, his tongue seeming to loll more out of his mouth as he answered, the both of you continuing to walk. "I don't know what Vivi is gonna do, but I'm gonna kick Crocodile's ass!"

You turned your head towards him now, searching as the storm moved.

"How? He's a Warlord, ya know. He's pretty strong. You're not scared?"

"Who cares?" You blinked at how casual he sounded, as he panted between words. "I'll beat that guy so hard, he'll regret making Vivi feel that stuff!" Luffy continued to stare straight ahead, not seeming to realize how his words affected you. How the storm gathered and ready for rage. "He deserves it! He should be the one scared, he won't see my Gomu Gomu no Pistol at all I bet. He probably looks stupid too. A stupid gator man."

You snorted and started laughing at that, putting a hand on Luffy's shoulder as he complained lightly that you're heavy and you're making him more hot like that.

Maybe you'll wake up with this kid, Crocy. You thought in between laughs, your confidence growing. Not only in Luffy, but that they should be the ones to finish this. They promised the Princess after all. But maybe you can give him a little push...not that much. A king does not need assistance to rule.

"Make sure you keep water on ya when you guys fight than." Luffy turned towards you, giving you a blank look as his tongue moved slightly out his mouth from the turn. You smirked knowingly. "You know. If ya need to take a water break."

"...you're kinda weird, (Y/N)." Your smirk widened at that, your cheeks pinching at the movement. Luffy turned back straight ahead and his eyes widened. "Ah! It's over there! Let's go!"

"Wait!"

Luffy sped off, leaving you to dust.

You scratched your head with a pondering frown. You looked to the right, where you spotted the docks of Nanohana were.

"...I'll just meet you there, I guess." You released a slight smile before moving to use the moves you learned from your time as a marine, using Geppo and Soryu quickly to arrive at Nanohana. A mix of kicking your legs too fast for someone to see in the air, and moving in a speed even faster than that. You arrived within the town, continuing towards the ship as your senses suddenly pricked.

Steady.

A burn of a wick.

Your eyes strayed back as you ran, spotting the clash of power of both smoke and fire. Your lips lifting up brightly. They're both here huh? You moved and continued, eventually over the ship, noticing the other Straw Hats have arrived as they glanced around.

"Say..." Sanji started, glancing around.

"I feel like..." Usopp said with a hand under his chin.

"We're short a person—" Zoro stated before you popped up behind him on the moving ship as you landed with a 'Yo!' The Straw Hats all falling over in surprise and turning towards you as you laughed at how scared they looked.

"YOU'RE DOING THIS ON PURPOSE!" They all yelled at once as you laughed lightly at their angry sharp expressions as they made a chopping motion with their hands, scratching the back of your head.

"Ah, did you happen to see Luffy?" Nami questioned, sobering quickly as she looked behind you as if to find the captain there.

"Didn't you leave with him?" Usopp questioned, confused.

"He left you, huh?" Zoro guessed, crossing his arms. "He does that."

"Heh, yeah. He got excited to eat some real food." You agree.

"That idiot!" Sanji cursed, one hand clenched into a fist in front of his chest. Seeming to itch to want to punch someone. You're guessing Luffy. "How dare he leave a beautiful woman alone in this large town?!"

"Mah, it's okay." You waved his anger off as you stepped up to the railings of the ship and leaning to look back at the town. "It's not like—oh, I think I see him!"

The Straw Hats leaned on the railing, all their heads comically leaning forward. Different heads and features appearing as they searched for what you were talking about before they all blanched. Spotting Luffy being chased by marines.

"That idiot!" They all called out, then all blinking as Luffy stretched his arm and touched the railing they were on. "Ah—"

"Here I come guys~!"

You quickly backed off as Luffy barreled towards the crew, then managing to back off far enough to not get a direct hit but the wind from the force of him basically whipping body over here was still felt. Them all yelling and giving their own reactions at his move as you observed from behind them, laughing at some of their reactions. Them moving onto who exactly that man with the fire was, and if he actually has a brother. Luffy confirming with a cheerful yes, saying his name was Ace as he leaned against the railing of the ship with his crew around him. Who were now in Alabasta garb you noticed.

You didn't make a surprised expression, instead an idea springing forth as you stepped closer to Luffy.

"Luffy, why don't you share some embarrassing stories about your brother? Since I've met Ace, the only person he talks about is you."

Luffy widened his eyes as the crew looked over at you in surprise.

"You know Ace too?!" Luffy exclaimed as Usopp muttered that the famous Silver Blood seems to know everyone in the high seas. Recalling how you stated Mihawk being your master. You hummed in confirmation as you repeated your question. Wanting to know something about Ace when he was young that he may have kept hidden. The bugger probably did.

"Ah, when Ace was little, he always blushed when he was near a girl—!" Luffy was cut off by a kick to the head by the man himself who had a mild scowl on his face.

"What were you going to say, Luffy?" Ace said as he looked down at the Straw Hat who held his head in pain as he called his brother's name in surprise. You chuckled in amusement at the exchange. When Ace was done with his introduction to the Straw Hats, you walked towards him as he continued to squat on top of the railing.

"Ace." You greeted with your eyes hidden behind your Marine cap. A sharp grin was on Ace's face, as he gave his own greeting.

"(Y/N)."

The Straw Hats looked on in confusion as a nervous sweat came down all of their backs. The aura around the two powerful and infamous pirates was...odd.

I-I thought she said they were friends! Usopp, along with Chopper, thought.

They then spotted you move your arm slowly up, almost calculative, as Ace followed suit.

W-wha?! Are they going to attack each other with their fists?! They all thought with horror except for Luffy who looked on with a tilted head.

A sudden grin broke out of the two of you, as both of your fists fist bumped each other.

"Nice to see you Ace! What are you doing all the way here in the Grand Line? Hope you're not causing trouble." You said with a small laugh, your eyes taking in your loveable friend that has freckles. Ace gave his own laugh as he pulled back his arm with a familiar grin. "You always do when you're by yourself!"

"Causing trouble? You should eat your own words (Y/N)! You got a lot of nerve. You haven't been drinking since the last time we've met yeah?" He replied, causing your eyebrows to furrow with mock irritation as you began to talk with another with an easy atmosphere. Not noticing the fallen Straw Hats that were on the floor.

"The-they were friends all along?!" Usopp yelled out.

"That presence...what was that just now?" Zoro muttered to himself as he looked between the second commander of Whitebeard and the infamous ex-marine Silver Blood.

The two of you stopped chattering when the both of you spotted a fleet of ships coming near the Straw Hats.

"Ah, it's Baroque Works! The Billions Fleet!" Vivi yelled out as the rest of the crew glanced at the number of huge ships.

You glanced at Ace as he glanced back, competitive grins on your faces. "Since they're small fry, we'll decide it this way. Cool with you (Y/N)?" You nodded as the both of you held your fists out.

"Rock! Paper! Scissors!"

"I win again! Maybe they should give you another title besides Silver Blood. Maybe 'Loser." Ace exclaimed as he held his 'scissors' and cut the air mockingly while you stared at your open palm in mild annoyance.

"Pfft, they won't be a challenge anyways. Just go 'Cocky Fist'." You replied with an irritated mutter, putting your hands into your black jean shorts pockets as you tapped the point of your boot to match your irritation.

"Awwww, don't be like that (Y/N)!" Ace teased, mocking as he put a hand to your shoulder. "Maybe stop playing rock, paper, scissors to make a deal?"

You grumbled as he laughed, you pushing him off you as you told him to just go already before you handle the ships for him. Ace giving a mock two finger salute with a cocky grin, him stepping over to his motorized boat below.

Usopp fell down at the ridiculous exchange, as the others sweat dropped while Luffy just laughed.

.

.

.

Edited: 02/04/21

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Fanart Corner

Chapter Text

It didn't take long for Ace to handle the ships, so they kept sailing to their next destination which was Yuba. This time with Ace.

The two of you caught up with the months that you haven't seen each other. Man, you loved the guy. You first met him when he wasn't a part of Whitebeard's crew yet, and he came to search for Shanks. You so happened to be there with the Red-Haired crew(you're always there). And he made an impression and it stuck, the two of you befriended one another when he made a joke with you laughing loudly at it. And replying with your own. He gave a 'D' grin, and continued to spew out jokes. At the end of it, the both of you were both red and gave fistbumps to each other. The Red-Haired and Ace's crew were a little weirded out at the odd exchange, with Shanks being the only one with a soft smile as he looked at the two of you.

"Sooooo," Your mouth was wide, teasing as the both of you sat on the right side of the ship by the railings. You elbowing Ace's arm with a glint in your eye as Ace looked down at you with a confused nervous smile as he drank from his mug Sanji provided him and you. The rest of the crew doing their own duties to help with the ship to make sure they will dock once more alright when they reach their destination. "Hope everything is alright with all those ladies in those bars. Broken any more hearts, Ace? That poor girl in Pompano must still be cursing your name to this day."

"Ugh. You and that story..." Ace's frown lifted into his own teasing as he poked your head with his two pointer fingers as you slightly scowled. "Not like I'm the one attacking everyone and is a lightweight. What was it again? Oh I remember," Ace's eyes glinted dangerously as your cheeks slightly flushed in embarrassment. "Five of those Happy Melon Balls. How can someone get like that with five of those tiny little things? They're not even that strong!"

You slapped his hand away as Ace laughed in your face, tears in his eyes as you looked away. Taking a sip from your mug of water to maybe hide your scowl of embarrassment as Ace dried his tears from his face with the back of his hand.

"S-Shut up! Those things were deceptively sweet! Ah man...it was like the chocolates again." Ace rose a brow at those words, him jabbing his hand to your shoulder as he wanted you to tell that story. You jabbing him back but to his stomach, him almost dropping his mug at the ticklish hit.  "I-I'm not telling that! That was embarrassing! Maybe I should just stop eating stuff in bars too... anyways, you been back to Wano? How's that kid you told me about?"

"Hiding from the conversation again?" Ace teased as you mock glared, before looking up at the sky in thought. "Tama? I imagine she's waiting for us to come back with Pops, probably doing her best to become a kunoichi. Or maybe trying to figure out a way to just grow up faster."

"She sounded like she really took a liking to you."

Ace released a soft smile, eyes distant.

"Yeah. Hope she's alright...maybe whenever you go to Wano you can say hi to her from me?"

You released a smile of your own, bumping both of your shoulders together.

"Don't gotta ask that. Of course I will. Maybe I can even hitch a ride with you guys again whenever you go back there." Ace chuckled, but you noticed it sounded slightly off as he gazed into the horizon in front of them as you gazed at him in a frown.

You've noticed that Ace has been acting a little odd for awhile. Him furrowing his brows at random times as you or when Luffy was in the conversation and was talking to his brother as well about the crazy adventures the straw hat has seen so far. You noticed it wasn't just from Ace hearing there was a man stuck in a chest either, it was something different. Or seeing Sanji suddenly bringing special drinks to all the women in the ship with his love tornado. Or how Usopp was telling stories(? You can't tell if he's a prophet or an amazing liar that is actually a good storyteller) again to Chopper about his adventures of an island that is built in pieces one can make as Chopper loudly gasped and cheered as you and Ace shared a knowing glance. Or when Zoro got confused the storage was the kitchen somehow, you were with the Straw Hats on how exactly that can happen when he lives here. You would say Nami was alright, but you have a debt for reasons that doesn't make any sense. You think Vivi and the duck are the only normal ones in the crew, but that's not here or there. Your friend is smiling weirdly.

"Say," Ace turned his eyes towards your serious tone as you stared at the moving blue in front. "What you said...after you defeated those Billions. When you said you were chasing an old crew mate for breaking a rule...did you...did they really kill a crew member? You wouldn't tell the others that for no reason. Not unless you meant it?"

You felt Ace continue to look at you for a few moments. He released a heavy sigh, tired and sad mixed in that showcased burden. You turned your gaze towards him under your cap, seeing Ace's expression twisted as he looked down.

"It's...it's true."

Your frown deepened.

"Who?"

Ace laughed, a broken sad thing that made your stomach churn.

"Who did it or who died?" At your silence, Ace gently laid his head on the railings, his crossed arms cushioning it as he lazily held the mug. Hiding his face from you. "...it just happened. It...just...it came out nowhere. One moment we were just celebrating from this jungle type island. When we all came back together. Like...what we always tend to do...when someone..." you spotted Ace clench his fingers around his mug just how you sensed the low spark turn into hellfire. "Thatch died." Your eyes widened and your jaw slackened as Ace continued and you could feel his devil fruit wanting to go free cause it just burned. "Blackbeard did it, you don't know him. You never saw him or met I don't think. Glad you didn't...that...that...traitorous bastard."

You thought of the man with the pompadour hair, odd shape you always thought. It reminded you of a sausage which you always called him. He would laugh good-naturedly and shrug it off, even if his crew would bark out laughs. Ace crying in the background with Marco teasing being added.  Since you've started running into them about two years ago when Ace joined, Thatch would make your favorite food without asking when Ace introduced you to everyone. He was charming, you remembered. In the way that he could take a joke easily and also release them when it came to Marco's pineapple head. If it wasn't Marco that would grab you and Ace from the bar due to your antics or out and about in an island, it was Thatch. He would wonder how you could ever have been a marine in the first place while saying that he has a reckless crewmate to Ace as he held both of you by the scruff of your necks when Ace wore his shirt.

You didn't know much. But you knew those things. The fact you knew made you want to act.

"No, (Y/N)." Ace lifted his head and turned towards you, his cheek still on his arms.

You scowled as you closed your mouth.

"You don't know what I was gonna say."

"I know enough." He lifted his head fully and turned his back towards the sea, leaning his back against the railings as he chugged the ale in his mug until it was gone. He wiped some excess on his chin with the back of his hand as he looked ahead. "This isn't something that involves you," you bristled but Ace continued, eyes cutting towards yours as the hellfire calmed into a determined blaze. "The man who did it was under my command. I have to handle it and handle it alone. This...isn't something that I can accept help. It's my responsibility."

"...I'm guessing Whitebeard accepted it than." Ace frowned at that and your jaw tightened. "Whitebeard didn't like it, huh? Ace, you can't just—"

"I have to do it!" You shut your mouth, blinking at Ace's outburst as he turned his whole body towards you. His face lowered but you can spot how his shoulders hunched and how wide his stance was. It looked...like he was carrying something heavy. "I have to, (Y/N). You...you do things alone too don't you? You...out of everyone...you must understand."

You bit your lip and looked away. Your throat seeming to tighten.

You understood. But he should understand something too.

"Hey," you called, moving from your spot when your put your mug onto the floor and putting your left hand onto Ace's bare shoulder. When his head lifted, you gave him a smile you didn't really feel but your eyes were fond. "You know I always have your back right?"

Ace seemed to stare at your expression before giving his own smile that looked weary.

"I know."

You lifted your right hand and formed a fist, Ace forming his own into one and bumping yours. And both your smiles turned real at the movement.

You distantly heard a stretching noise and a sense of storm in need of fire, when Luffy basically landed on top of Ace making Ace drop his thankfully empty cup and get squished to the floor.

"ACEEEEEE! Tell me more about what you've been doing!" Luffy stated as he basically laid on his brother's back with Ace's face to the floor, his hand seeming to twitch.

"Mfgh uff megh woulfy!" He seemed to say, you don't know. You were too busy laughing at him as Luffy cocked his head in confusion.

"I don't get what you're saying. I only understand English, Ace. Oh! Did you learn a new language?!" Ace lifted his head so quick that he head butted Luffy making the straw hat yelp with Ace calling his brother an idiot. They started to bicker about this or that so you decided to take your leave to give them the space they need as family, you passing by Usopp and Chopper with a smile as storytelling continued to occur and Zoro who was napping by the storage door. You were going to head up stairs to the kitchen only to see Vivi pop up behind where the tangerine tree was and nervously ask you if she could talk to you. You rose a brow but accepted, her leading you to the back of the ship where no one was except for the two of you.

Nami must be in the kitchen, you thought as you leaned against the railings but towards the Princess who seemed...nervous? Perhaps not nervous, perhaps it was stress? Which given to what's happening, who can blame her. All you saw was that as she stood in front of you, she seemed to want to distract herself by clenching her dancer girl outfit skirt, perhaps wishing her duck was there instead but she sent Carue away to give the king a message.  Ah man...if she asks me directly about this whole thing, I'm gonna have to say. Oh well.

"I...Can you possibly tell me more about Alabasta?" You blinked, Vivi seeming to catch onto your confusion and goes to correct herself. "I—well, you said you've been here countless times. And you said you've been seeing odd things during your time here...I haven't...with me trying to be undercover in Baroque Works—" your eyes widened at that, your mind going crazy at the revelation and thoughts of what you've seen and suspected rushing through your brain, "—for the past two years to try to see who was doing this to my country, I haven't been able to really see anything yet. Besides what's already happened. I guess..." Vivi's earnest eyes met yours for the first time, and your heart did an odd thing at the sight. Conflicted. "Do you have anything you could tell me?"

A few seconds passed before you gave a heavy sigh, looking away as you scratched the back of your head.

"Where to start? But first," you looked up at her once more, "How old are you?"

Vivi blinked before answering, "I'm 16."

You bit the inside of your cheek, looking down as you muttered, "So 14 when you left, huh..." You looked up once more, you giving the Princess a calm smile and her seeming to relax at the sight of it. "I'll tell you what I've seen. How about that?"

At Vivi's nod and you motioning for both of you to sit, you decided to tell her your suspicions throughout the years. About the use of dance powder that was said to be used by the king yet the people made it seem he was a good one but you weren't sure since royals can be quite cruel in your experience. How you questioned in the first place how a Warlord or why a Warlord seemed to act with invaders. About comments here and there about a rebellion from the citizens. About the organization Baroque Works being brought up, or rather you accidentally finding something odd. You told her all this, but left out the relationship you had with Crocodile.

It was...it would be too complicated to explain. You won't even know how to properly explain it. It was just that odd about the two of you seemed...cordial? Is that the word to say? You don't know. The man is a grump but you don't mind it much anymore. You guess cordial is the word.

Vivi took everything in, making comments here and there about how of course that would seem suspicious. You adding onto the fact that since you had no evidence, you couldn't do much in the first place. Baseless accusations is not something you like to do, although...you do have your moments...

Vivi nodded, smiling at you in satisfaction and more at ease than she was previously with you, you noticed. Her shoulders less tense and her smile less stiff.

Guess she must've remembered something that pertained to you and Crocodile. Ah man. This man is seriously complicating things!

But I want to see if the tempest can pick up some wind, you thought, calming yourself as Vivi talked.

"Thank you! That really helped! Are you gonna...what are you gonna do when we land on the ship?" You tilted your head and Vivi moved to explain further. "We're heading to Yuba to meet the rebels. I know Luffy's brother is trying to find his hint he needs in Yuba to find his ex crewmate but...what are you gonna do?"

"I thought you guys were gonna go directly to Crocodile?" You questioned, remembering Luffy's words. Vivi shook her head as your brows furrowed, her answering that trying to stop the war by talking first is the way. Your brows only furrowed more at that, revealing to you despite the girl leaving at fourteen to help her country and probably has seen and experienced things, it is not enough to change this odd viewpoint of hers. Sweet. But hopelessly innocent. Either way, Yuba is close to Rainbase from what you remember before you started to mainly go to Nanohana, Aluburna, and Rainbase in your visits, so if there's a change of plans, it will work. You decided to just move on from that, as you looked to the side, spotting the shore where they'll land as Nami starting giving orders to prepare. "As for what I'm going to do...I'm going to follow up on one of my suspicions. See what I can do with that. Probably meet my Nakama too if I can."

Vivi smiled softly at you.

"The marine right? It's nice to have friends no matter what label they have it seems."

You looked at the Princess in a ship of pirates, seeming to be apart of the crew like she's meant to be there and gave a half-grin.

"It sure is!"

Yuba was closing in, then taking the only route to land using the Sandora River that splits the country from Rainbase and Aluburna. Luffy exclaiming once more that he will kick Crocodile's ass with Vivi reiterating to everyone, you by Ace and Zoro leaning on the lower deck by the stairs—that she does not wish for any more blood. Zoro stating if she truly thinks seven hundred thousand people will stop if she asked nicely, and you're glad the swordsman asked cause if he didn't, you felt like your big mouth would've asked. The Princess was sweet, but she truly did not understand conflict. You can imagine others you know would make a colder analysis and most likely would not be far off from the truth. Either way, with one more declaration to all on board that they could stop this senseless violence and she will not let Baroque Works win, you felt the Straw Hats determination and understanding fuse.

Luffy made an odd blank expression before he smiled good-naturedly at Vivi saying he understood. You have a sense that he meant he understood her feelings more than her reasoning. And with a shared glance between you and Ace, you felt like he was on the same boat.

The crew did the final preparations, Vivi and Nami putting on more appropriate clothes for the desert at the transgression and despair of Sanji. You think he might've started crying a river if Zoro didn't ask him snidely if he didn't have anything better to do than just ogle. Sanji seeming to snap up from his depressed form on the floor and about to pummel the green hair before Vivi calmed them down.

The kindness of the Straw Hats seemed great, for they let you use another appropriate attire for Alabasta. Nami handing it to you with a sly smile and saying she was gonna charge you one thousand for it. You quickly pushed it back into her hands at that, before Vivi said you should really use it lest your skin will get ruined.

"Man...I've been out here without those clothes before." You do recall being unable to move correctly, your skin feeling like it was on fire. Especially your exposed legs due to your knee high shorts. You needed a special salve for it to be fixed. You distantly recall Crocodile looking at you as if you had no survival skills or knowledge whatsoever. You internally scowled at the memory. "It's not that hot. I'm sure I can handle it. I think I've gotten used to it."

"Bullshit." Ace called out, in his own Alabasta garb, a smirk on his face. "You're just being stubborn again. And you call me an idiot."

"What'd ya say?!" You moved towards him and grabbed his cheek, him quickly doing the same. Both of you stretching another's cheeks so far tears started to gather in both your eyes. "Ufh an idieofgh, Acuh!"

"Nugh, you are!"

The crew stared in a deadpan as Luffy laughed to himself at how Ace's cheeks can go far like his own, a collected thought in their minds.

The monsters are weirdos.

Eventually the both of you released each other, rubbing your cheeks as you begrudgingly grabbed the robe from Nami when Vivi once again said it was best to you with her sweet smile and worried eyes as you felt a noble's concern over a country in your senses. It was a robe similar to Luffy's but gray in color with one black line going down the sleeves from the shoulders. It sort of fit really, you thought as you put it on. The crew landed and after the Kung Fu Dugongs were calmed, you outwardly recalled the time time you surfed on some to the astonishment of Chopper and Usopp, you announced to everyone this was where they would part ways for now.

The crew gave you various degrees of odd looks, outside of Vivi who you told your plans already.

"Eh? Where are you going than?" Usopp questioned.

Luffy gasped, his eyes seeming to sparkle as he looked at you excitedly.

"Are you going to surf on the seal guys?!"

Nami and Usopp lightly bumped their captain in the head, a resolute no on their lips as they looked back up at you. Only to see you had a thoughtful look on your face.

"Now that you mention it..."

"HE WAS RIGHT?!" Nami, Chopper, and Usopp seemed to yell in disbelief at you, only making you laugh as you had a hand in the back of your head.

"Nah. I'm going to check on something real quick while you guys try to head over there." Your eyes turned towards southwest from where they were on the sand, (e/c) narrowing slightly. "I wanna see Smokey too."

"What?!" Chopper exclaimed, confused. "But...you're not scared of getting caught?"

You smirked down at the reindeer but Luffy just picked his nose with a pinky.

"Ah. Okay. Let's go guys." The crew looked at the captain in confusion, Luffy flicking the treasure he found off his finger casually as he looked at you, expressionless. "(Y/N)'s strong. She can do what she wants."

Ace nodded at his brother with a grin.

"You bet she is."

You looked at the others who were still hesitant and gave them a confident smirk.

"How about this? I'll see if we can meet at Rainbase than." They blinked at your suggestion, Vivi seeming to catch on immediately as you continued. "That's where Crocodile is. If Yuba doesn't work out, I can see what I can do straight at the source."

You're not sure what you'll do but whatever to calm them.

Zoro closed his eyes and nodded, turning his back.

"You guys should stop worrying. She didn't get her reputation for nothing. There's a reason behind them."

At the reminder, they nodded and left you in a wave except Ace who you fist bumped. Since you're not sure you'll see him again. You quietly reminded him what you said and Ace gave a thankful expression before waving you off to join the Straw Hats as they headed straight into the direction of Yuba once they passed Erumalu. You watching them with crossed arms, the gray robe upon your form as it slightly billowed until you didn't see them anymore.

Your eyes shadowed under your cap as you faced southwest once more, to where Spider's Cafe was held. Kuroi ten'nosabaki glinting at the sun as Karasu followed suit in a thrum in its black scabbard, ready.

Let's see what excuse you'll say now.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Vivi suddenly gasped once they walked quite a ways away from the Going Merry and yourself, passing Erumalu.

The crew and Ace looked at her in concern.

"I-I remember now...(Y/N)-san...she was—she helped with pirates that would come on Alabasta looking for trouble." At Nami's question of what could be wrong with that, Vivi continued, feeling slightly confused as she looked down. "She...she would sometimes help Crocodile with them."

The crew's eyes widened while Ace frowned.

"(Y/N) probably just did what she could with the attacks," Ace explained. "That warlord probably just happened to be there. She doesn't really...like the kind of people that's like him."

"I-I know," Vivi bit her lip, remembering the information you gave her as everyone stared. "It's just...I suddenly remembered that it seemed to be a thing in this country...but (Y/N)-San told me she was suspicious of what's been happening in my country for awhile and told me them. I guess I'm just confused...?"

"It probably means nothing," Zoro said, eyes squinting from the sun despite his turban as he looked over at Vivi. "If she freely gave you information than it's fine."

Vivi was still frowning so Luffy cut in.

"(Y/N)'s weird but she's nice! She just says weird things..." Luffy seemed to make a face and Vivi decided to let it go, thinking that she must be being ridiculous. You were nice after all.

"Y-yeah, you're right. Sorry guys." Ace waved her apology off and the crew did the same, them continuing on their journey to Yuba as they went.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Three and a half years ago

"Stop! DAMN IT! STOP MANDO!" You yelled in distress atop the purple with reddish tones Sandora Lizard as it dashed across the sands, completely in a different direction than what you wanted.

The large lizard was just something you saw as a way to travel through the sand easier. It was happenstance that you came upon it about to eat citizens of Alabasta when you first attempted to travel through the Sandora River. You're just glad it became your noble steed that you managed to scare into letting you ride it. The lizard's mate also following suit and complying to your demands and it followed behind the lizard you were in, which you named Mando because it sounded cool and animal like.The other lizard being named Twy. Because why not.

You still have yet to show it off to Crocodile, you remembered before shaking your head. The weirdo probably will say something slick. Or demeaning. Or just stare at you with that impassive face of his while silently judging. Or...you remembered the time with the duck and sea cat and you made an odd face.

Ugh! Whatever! You'll show him later!

Right now you were supposed to visit Yuba to see what it's about but you were completely going the wrong way!

"STOP IT!"

Mando didn't stop. He only stopped when you spotted a small building that looked like a shack. You squinting to see what it was, concentrated. So concentrated apparently when Mando suddenly stopped, you flying forward due to you not holding his neck tight enough.

You quickly corrected yourself with Geppo but you still somehow landed with sand in your face.

You lifted your head at Mando, who was pointedly not looking at you as he flicked his tongue nervously. It looked like it was sweating.

You sighed, getting up and spitting out sand and walked towards Mando and Twy. Patting both of their legs and asking them to stay until you can figure out a way to go where you want.

You walked towards the building and spotted it looked like a restaurant. In the middle of a desert. With no civilization even close by.

You frowned in confusion. Reading the name of the building to see it was called Spider's Cafe.

"Who builds a cafe that no one can see exists? This is taking hole in a wall to a whole new level..."

You opened the door to the cafe either way, a welcoming bell chiming as you did. You looked at the obviously empty cafe, cause who would come here? How do they even make money? It was quaint though, having five tables with two chairs in each and also having a bar. Different drinks and snacks at the cupboards behind the bar in a neat fashion.

"I'll be right with you!" A female voice said from the back room, sounding calm and silvery. Also welcoming.

You decided to wait by the bar, leaning your arms against it. You're thankful it was cool here too. Your yelling did nothing for the heat you felt, and your skin needed a break. You absentmindedly touched your calf, almost hissing how hot to the touch it was. Maybe you should try to wear Alabasta garb...

"Sorry about that," the female voice connected to a body, a woman with dark blue hair pulled back into a ponytail and glasses with a bandana on her head. Her clothes casual, consisting of a plaid blouse and jeans with sandals. Your eyes slightly narrowed when your brain seemed to prick at you. You kept your gaze on her face that was pulled into a customer service smile. "I didn't expect any customers yet so I was just fixing some supplies—."

The woman froze, eyes wide as she looked at you.

"You...y-you're..."

She seemed to connect who you were. And you did the same.

Your face formed a dangerous smirk as you cocked your head.

"Zala. Or Miss Doublefinger. I don't remember many faces and names with such low bounties but you used to be an assassin before joining Baroque Works, am I right?" You weren't really asking and Zala seemed to know it. Her face seeming to turn blue and lost on what to do. "I found it weird that this place would be in the middle of absolutely nowhere. Unless you were servicing to the scorpions or lizards, you would get no business or no money. But...this must be a place where a person can make a contract right? That's why it's hidden like this." You leaned closer to her from the other side of the bar, her taking a step backwards in response. "Why should I not tell authorities of this or you?"

A few beats of silence passed and you noticed the woman was panicking. Sweat going down her temple and her hands seeming to clench on her pants as you stared at her.

"I...this...like you said, I'm not an assassin anymore, I'm retired."

Tea being poured spilled to the side.

Your eyes narrowed behind your cap.

"Don't lie to me." Zala's eyes widened behind her glasses, frozen. "I'll just leave and come back with Alabasta's soldiers. Or just take you with me. There's two of those huge lizards outside. Maybe they'll let you ride on them if I ask nicely."

Perhaps over excessive but you gotta know.

Zala swallowed thickly, taking off her glasses and looked towards you but avoided your gaze.

"I'm sorry. That...that was wrong of me. But...you must know I haven't been as involved with the organization. There's not that much news that involve me."

You rose an unimpressed brow.

"I don't have time to be reading every newspaper the News Coo drops. And you just happened to be an assassin that I remembered. I don't remember every face of every bounty."

"A-ah." Zala dropped her gaze down, ego taking a hit at your harsh words. "I...see." Her lips twitched up into a dry smile when she looked back at you, your lone eye under your cap as the rest of it was shadowed as you stared blankly. "I got unlucky it seems. But, an assassin has only so much to do after they quit. I chose the organization that can help sustain me... what else can someone do?"

You slightly frowned, lifting your head a tad as the agent continued.

"Criminals only have so much to do. You must understand right? This place, although it helps me with getting contracts or orders, I also use it. I..." Zala's eyes turned soft as she looked at her cafe to the tables and seats, "I actually love this cafe."

"...Mmm...you're not lying." You realized, Zala turning towards you nervously when you spoke up. "So you actually use this cafe too...and I actually do understand. I'm an outlaw too now. But look—" You lifted yourself with your hands from the bar, both your eyes now showing as Zala stared wide eyed and tense as you leaned towards her. "As long as whatever you're doing doesn't hurt these people in this country, than I'll let you go. Can you say that?"

Zala looked unsure for a moment before giving you a strong nod.

"I can. I won't hurt this country."

You stared at her face, searching. And than your curved up to a smirk once again as you suddenly punched the bar, making the woman jump.

"Great! Say, you got anything cold to drink? It's quite hot out there and I think I might die if I go back. That and," your face formed into one of annoyance, "I'm probably gonna get told off again about my sweat filled clothes. Ahhh man...I hope I don't stink. I'll never hear the end of it!" You moved to lift the collar of your shirt and took a sniff as if to check, you grumbling all the while.

Zala opened and closed her mouth, trying to understand your change of demeanor and failing.

"I-I can give you some juice I have in the back."

Your face brightened.

"Awesome! Can I have some please? How much is it?"

"It's...on the house." Zala replied carefully, at a complete loss. Your brows furrowed.

"What? What for?"

Zala looked at you in complete disbelief, a sweatdrop coming down her head as she stared at your oblivious face.

"...just take it as a token of kindness and a thank you." You seemed to shrug in reply, Zala moving to give you the sweet juice native of the Nectar Cactuses of Alabasta in a cup with a cover and a straw so you can carry it outside. "Here. And thank you again."

You waved her off as you sipped, you smiling in delight at the explosion of sweetness and how refreshing it was.

"Don't worry about it. Take care! I got a lizard to ride."

You left before Zala could ask what that meant. She looked out the window and her eyes bulged as you casually got on the dangerous predators that were the Sandora Lizards, that with one bite it would be over. Your reputation truly was frightening. Zala can't imagine what would've happened if you didn't have a kind heart. She's lucky that you didn't even mention the Warlord that's here. Zala rather have water in her body. But she must inform Miss All Sunday of this, so she can tell Mr. 0 of the close call and what to do next. Hoping to herself that she won't break her word to you in the future.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

You stared at the closed sign of the Spiders café, lips twisted in disappointment.

Due to your failing of your yells to Mando and Twy, you actually decided to go for the surfing a Dugong idea that Luffy accidentally suggested. You going back and kindly asking five of them if they can take you down river so you were closer to the cafe and not having to trek on foot. After showing off one of your sharp kicks you haven't done in awhile and allowing them to hit you while using Tekkai since it would be unaffected. At their impressed "Kuoooo", five of them volunteered and you sat on them, glad you calculated right that due to your buster swords weight it would need multiple of them to withstand it as you laughed freely at how fast they were going and the cute sounds they were making as they swam in the water. You gave them a grin filled wave in thanks as they swam back to the Going Merry, and trekked until you reached the front entrance of the cafe holding the closed sign.

You stared at it. Than looked towards the door. For a moment you contemplated knocking but that's not really your style, so you kicked the door. The door slamming open and surprisingly still having its hinges as you heard a gasp when you walked in. An odd shing sound being made as if a weapon was unsheathed as you looked up, seeing the woman you met those years ago having spikes for fingers as she stared at you pale faced.

"Whaaaat...it...issss," You turned towards the slow talking man, as he also looked pale as he sat on the barstool. Having a bowl cut and tall and large with a color scheme of yellow and green. "Silllllveeeer...Bl-"

"What are you doing here?! What? Wha! Wh?!" The short stout woman next to him shrieked, her large outrageous hair being the first thing you noticed. "Th-the s-sign said closed to everyone! Everyon'! Every! Eve!"

"—ood...how...do...you...know...of—"

He was talking way too slow.

"I think I wasn't clear last time," You stated to Zala, who retracted her sharpened fingers as she stared at you with fear each step you took forward until you leaned against the bar once more. "Last I checked, thought I heard you weren't gonna hurt the country. But now I just found out about some information. You," you flashed her a dangerous smirk, "You used your love for your cafe as a veil to hide your lies. You got guts, lady."

You saw Zala swallow as the two others in the cafe just sat there frozen, the man seeming to give up on talking when your dangerous aura appeared at your words.

"I...did not lie. It's my boss that has plans," Your eyes flashed at the mention of Crocodile, who smartly avoided any evidence that he was connected to any of this. Cleverly distracting you as you sensed the tempest move about lazily even if the sea called. "I-I did not know fully...of Mr. 0's plans, no one really did besides Miss All Sunday. You can't really blame me...!"

You scoffed.

"No need to use that stupid agent name of his. The drama queen just wants to sound cool."

At their blank looks you rose a brow.

"Y-you know Mr. 0's identity?" The dark blue haired woman asked with wide eyes.

"Wh-what?!" The short woman squawked. "How do you know Mr. 0?! Mister! Miss!"

You rose both brows now.

"You...don't know?" You frowned, looking at the short woman making her freeze as your sharp eyes landed on her. "You guys must be agents too, huh? You guys planning a meeting with all the agents?" At their silence, you took that as a yes. "...I...think I get it. What a smart bastard." You couldn't help but say with a disbelieving laugh. Your plans deciding to change once more from what you were gonna do, you staring back up at Zala who stood ramrod straight. "Tell him this for me than. And it has to be word for word, got it?"

Zala gave a hesitant nod and you grinned in deep amusement.

"Tell him: Gotta do better than that if you think this is your dream."

Zala paled.

"I-I can't say that! That's...that sounds disrespectful!"

You waved her off casually.

"If you say it's from me it'll be fine. I wish I could add something more, but it'll give it away to you guys. Besides, he doesn't shoot the messenger. He likes competence." You explained, putting a hand to your hip as you looked up in thought. "Which you must have. I bet you reported when I first came here, huh? That would explain a lot...although not much at the same time." You scowled up in the ceiling, slight flush coming on your features before you shook it away and looked back at the frozen agents. "Alright. See ya." You turned away from them with crossed arms behind your head.

"Wha..."

"Eh?!"

"Wait!" Zala called to your back, you stopping but not turning around. "You...you're not gonna kill us?"

You looked over your shoulder and looked at her oddly.

"Didn't I say you need to give him a message? You slow or something?" Zala looked affronted at that, feeling at a loss like the last time you were here. "I got stuff to do. And you need to tell him that. Besides, I'm sure you'll learn a lesson from someone else. Bye."

And so you walked out, leaving the three agents bewildered with their hearts pounding and feeling like they just escaped with their lives.

"Oh,"You popped your head back in, making all of them jump in surprise and souls come out their bodies.  "Can I get that juice again before I leave? It's hot!"

Zala looked at Silver Blood (Y/N) with her glasses askew from the shock of you coming back in, and wondered how many times she will feel her life will end today.

She gave you the drink, packing it for you once more so you can travel with it outside with a lid and a straw, and you headed out with a pleased hum. After exiting the cafe and walking a ways away, you looked side to side, trying to decide where you need to go next. 

You closed your eyes and flared your Observation Haki, feeling out the energies you knew.

Immovable. The reverence of swords.

Northeast in the Sandora River.

The storm with drops of sun. Sweet stories for a sick girl. A laugh from a simple pinwheel blowing. A declaration under stars. Sakura blossoms. Hands to create. Red. Pride and love for mother's land.

South of Yuba.

A wind trying to pick up. The feeling when one opens a new book.

Rainbase, unsurprisingly.

You opened your eyes as you frowned, still feeling out that other energy near Crocodile. It was truly a miracle you've never actually seen that one. Their energy was so...strong to you, you can say. You can't forget when you accidentally went a little too deep, feeling the dislike for sunsets for they look like explosions and a smile frozen and other emotions you didn't expect. Whatever they're doing with Crocodile, they must have their reasons.

Everyone has their reasons.

Oh well. You're not seeing them yet. You turned towards the Northeast, the sun setting amongst the desert making it look red, pushing your legs as you used Geppo and Soryu as you moved with an excited grin. The gray robe billowing in the wind as you did so.

You have Nakama to see.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Within Raindinners Casino, the upper floors

Robin walked up to Crocodile behind him as he looked out Rainbase with the tall large panned windows, his large threatening hook holding the curtain up to stare down as he finished up his idle talk of how the desert will always have the stench of death about it. And will always swallow anything whole, Robin added mentally to herself as she stared at the scheming Shichibukai's back with a calm secret smile.

"I've just received word that the Billions' ships stationed in Nanohana have all been wiped out by someone..." Deep blue eyes spotted a slight shift of a hook as she continued. "I'm having this verified as we speak."

Robin stared as the Shichibukai puffed and blew out his cigar, seeming to be in thought.

"You confirmed that Silver Blood left Nanohana?"

Robin's smile lifted a tad, eyes glittering in amusement before she smoothly answered.

"Yes. She was seen twenty miles south of Nanohana before losing sight of her. After you personally escorted her to the porttown of course."

"Careful, Miss All Sunday." The Warlord toned lowly without looking back at her. "I have no patience for your teasing."

Robin thought of Silver Blood's scowls, comments, and shouts throughout the years  and controlled her giggle as she closed her eyes gracefully.

"Of course. My apologies."

"It's of no importance either way. There are plenty of replacements for the Billions. A single drop of water in the desert will be no obstacle for my plan," the Shichibukai stated arrogantly, completely confident in his plan. "If Silver Blood decided to have a tantrum than it won't matter. But if someone else is sniffing around and is trying to get in the way outside of that...crush them."

Robin's eyes gleamed at Crocodile's words and their hidden meaning. Nonetheless, she answered with a steady of course and walked off to speak to the agents and make sure they were meeting on time as well as to see who exactly attacked the Billions. Crocodile moving his hook away which casted the room once more in darkness.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

When you spotted the Marine ship docked on the shores, southeast of Rainbase and spotted a head of white hair, you did what anybody would've done.

You used Soryu to be above the ship and dived straight towards Smoker, tackling him with a hug as you squealed loudly as everyone's only warning. Smoker choked in surprise.

"Smokey! Long time no see!"

You let go immediately when he swung his weapon at you with a growled out call of your name. Tashigi readied her weapon but was called down by Smoker that he could handle her. You tilted your head.

"Ah, still trying to catch up to me SmoBaka?" You scanned his body up and down, as well as his form. Smoker scowled and attacked you, which you easily blocked with Karasu. Your smile widened.

"You got stronger. But," you made eye contact with his, "not strong enough." You easily pushed him back as you landed a few feet away, you then being suddenly surrounded by marines with guns pointed at you as you stood in the lower deck of the Marine ship. You glanced at them, but your eyes immediately went to Smoker who still had that scowl on his face. You bit your lip as you saw Smoker's hands clenched tightly around his weapon and saw his eyes filled with anger and impatience.

"Silver Blood! Don't treat Captain Smoker that way!" Tashigi yelled at you with tight fists as she glared at you.

"She won't listen, Sergeant Tashigi. And I'm fine. It's really nothing." Smoker replied, Tashigi looking at him with a slight frown. Her hands still tight around her sword, Autumn Rain.

Prove to the sword one can stand.

You gave a small smile at the young woman.

"Sergeant huh? Well done Tashigi, I was wondering when you would become one. You're good with the way of the sword." You complimented the young woman, who was taken aback and blushed, feeling flattered and gave a small "Thank you" in reply.

"No problem! And you wanna see Karasu right? Do you wanna—" you jumped in the air, as the marines that were aimed at you shot their guns. You landed on the upper deck of the ship now by the wheel with a pout on your face.

"That wasn't really nice. I was talking. Smokey, teach your marines some manners."

You could practically hear his sigh and feel his annoyance from where you were.

"This is a fight between you and me, you're the one with no manners when you wanted to fight my Sergeant."

You looked at him, and then gasped as you hit your fist against your open hand.

"Smokey got jealous!"

Smoker looked at you with annoyance in his features, a slight blush on his cheeks.

"Idiot. Why are you even here? First the Straw Hats and now you in this mess. This...something really is happening in this country if you're involved. Have you seen them?" Smoker questioned with a serious expression, his cigars tight round his lips.

You shrugged, but smirked proudly at how sharp Smoker can be.

"Maybe. Maybe not. But I like them, I'm sure you'll like them too."

"...so you have seen them." Smoker said blandly. Your smirk turning into a playful grin that flashed your teeth. "Allies than?"

"Eh, maybe. They're actually...pretty great. Was it really them that made you leave your station at Loguetown?" You leaned against the railing of the ship, above all the marines as you stared down at Smoker with an odd smile on your face. "They must seem impressive to you too to be on the move again after all this time. You sense it too...I'm not surprised you can. You're my Nakama after all."

"Don't call me that. You're a pirate. I'm a marine. We became enemies the moment you chose to leave the marines and become a pirate." Smoker growled at you with narrowed eyes, your smile finally slipping off your face when he mentioned the past. You looked at him evenly for a moment. You sensed his feelings of betrayal towards you, still hurt over the fact on what you did. The wolf that doesn't bite but will stay. When the both of you were kids, he was the one that defended you from bullies that you weren't a pirate, and never was going to be one.

And here you are.

A pirate.

With quite a large bounty on your head.

You hated it when this conversation came up between them, you were always tempted to tell him what happened. But he was never alone. You wanted to tell your Nakama everything. He deserved to know everything that happened.

Why did you become a pirate that you never planned to be?

Why were you okay with being a pirate's daughter?

Why...did you leave him?

You bit your lip, as your cap covered your (e/c) eyes. Smoker looking at you carefully, no feelings being shown in his eyes. But his thoughts were all over the place. From the moment he grabbed the newspaper all those years ago and saw that headline, he felt his emotions from shock to denial and then to anger and confusion. Couldn't believe that his friend became a pirate. Not wanting to. But when he spotted you once a year later, he could see differences. Gone was your marine uniform, but you still kept that same and old worn cap you received the same time Smoker received his. You took care of it, despite the amount of years you had it, it didn't seem that damaged. And you still kept it on your head with pride. But when he attempted to capture you after his yells at you on why you became a pirate, he saw it.

Your eyes.

They were different.

They didn't seem to have that gleam you had when they were younger. It was gone.

And when you smiled at him...

It looked more broken then anything else.

He immediately took notice of this, but kept his mouth shut into a firm line, tightening his weapon with his hands. At a complete loss on what to do now they were both separated by law and the ones who defy it.

You still acted like everything was the same, you teasing him with your constant jokes.

But it wasn't. And you knew that.

He was a marine.

And you were now a pirate.

Something that he wanted to know on why you chose that life.

But no matter how many times he yelled why, you only gave those sad eyes of yours. An emotion that wasn't supposed to be on your face. Smoker suspected it was something about when you were dispatched to Enies Lobby, but they would never give him the answers he wanted. If you never accepted then...

"Smoker." He looked up at you, your cap still covering your face.

"I'll tell you someday. Remember? I told you that. And I also told you that you're the only one who can catch me so," you looked up at him with excited and determined eyes,"keep getting stronger Smoker! You'll catch up to me one day!" You smiled at him. He looked at you in silence.

"What are you saying? Tch...what are you doing here anyways? You came out of nowhere."

You scratched the back of your head, the marines below in the lower deck looking at one another in slight confusion on what to do. Are they supposed to attack you or what? When some of them looked towards Tashigi, she shook her head slightly at them before turning her head back towards you by craning her neck upwards.

"You're right that something is happening in this country," You answered, Smoker eye's narrowing at your confirmation. "I've suspected that something has been happening here for awhile but...it seems the Straw Hats have the key to uncover the whole thing for everyone."

"The key? You mean the Princess?" You blinked in surprise at that, not expecting for him to find out. Smoker went on. "We spotted her in Nanohana. Does this have to do with that dreadful man that chose this as his spot?"

You chuckled at Smoker's words, nodding.

"Yeah...you heading to Rainbase than?"

"Are you?" Smoker quickly retorted back.

You grinned at him and threw your hands up in mock surrender.

"You caught me! Gotta go! See ya there, I guess!"

You used Soryu and gave him a quick hug, Smoker widening his eyes at the warm and familiar contact once again. And before he could react, you already waved at him and the others in good bye, and left quickly. Leaving all of them in the dust. With Smoker still feeling your arms around him as he stared at the space where you disappeared.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Raindinners, Hidden Lower Levels by the Aquarium

"In a single night, this land will truly become our utopia," Crocodile lied smoothly as he leaned against his chair at the head of the long executive table of his meeting room. "Operation Utopia is Baroque Works' last and greatest operation. Failure is not an option. We begin at noon tomorrow."

The agents gave a round of understanding and Crocodile couldn't but let the pleased smirk on his lips lift a tad higher.

"I wish you all luck."

"Ah, there was something I wanted to add." Miss Doublefinger said hesitantly as she held her smoking pipe.

Crocodile turned his eyes towards her, noting that she was the one that asked him directly for his motives. Something he sees as noteworthy. He rather have someone talk to him with a spine than someone without one. She was also the one that informed him of your sudden appearance at the secret hideout of Spider's Cafe almost four years ago. He saw it as you sniffing around once more until he eventually realized when you showed him off the Sandora Lizards you somehow befriended that they went a little too far in your journeys in the desert.

At his waiting eyes, she continued, biting the inside of her cheeks slightly as she kept her gaze to his face. He noted in the corner of his eye that Mr. 4 and Miss Merry Christmas were looking down, nervous.

This won't be pleasant, Crocodile noted, his lips now in a straight line.

"Well, before all the frontier agents met up but when Mr. 4 and Miss Merry Christmas already arrived, so around five o'clock, a...surprising visitor came back." Crocodile's eyes narrowed, Miss Doublefinger taking a puff of her pipe to calm her nerves at his look. "Silver Blood (Y/N) came by again and knew that you—Sir Crocodile—are Mr. 0."

Crocodile stared. He moved to light another cigar upon his lips.

"Silver Blood," Mr. 1 toned with wide eyes, his hands on his crossed arms tensing at the word. "Wasn't she seen publicly with Sir Crocodile fighting off pirates? She's not a part of this? The other orders..."

"Whaaaa?!" Mr. 2 yelled, standing up quickly as he slammed his hands on the table, making the black tea in everyone's cups move slightly. "Wait, I remember those other orders! Did Silver Blood not actually know of your side job, Zero-chan?!" The okama's face seemed to twist into one of pity. "Poor Silver Blood... that's not nice being so untrustworthy of your partner in life, Zero-Chan!"

Crocodile pointedly ignored him as he flicked his lighter. There's only so many Okama's he's willing to actually converse back with in his life.

Nico Robin turned towards Miss Doublefinger with one of her disarming smiles that makes his skin prick at her two-facedness.

"Oh? So Silver Blood has finally sniffed out the goal of Baroque Works and Crocodile has been interconnected throughout all these years. She won't like this." Nico Robin commented, but her eyes turned serious as she looked at Miss Doublefinger. "Which makes me question how exactly you are unscathed and standing."

A good question, Crocodile placed his now lit cigar between his lips and took a deep puff as his mind ran. This is becoming more troublesome. So she didn't leave as I thought...

"She was scary!" Miss Merry Christmas unhelpfully and loudly added to the conversation. "She kicked the door open to the cafe as me and Mr. 4 were drinking! Drink! Dri!"

"Oh!" Mr. 2 exclaimed, snapping his fingers. "So that's why when I opened the door, it sounded so creaky!"

Mr. 4 nodded to his partners words. Miss Doublefinger looked towards Nico Robin.

"I-I suspected the same thing. Especially since I broke my word from the last time I saw her. About not hurting this country," The blue-haired woman clarified at the others confused looks and at his steady glance. Her moving her eyes back onto him. "She said she wanted me to give you a message, Sir Crocodile. It is quite..." she trailed off.

Crocodile's lips formed into a frown as his brows furrowed.

"This is surprising," Nico Robin commented with lips quirked up. And he agrees.

This isn't your style.

"Well?" Crocodile prompted, taking a deep puff of his cigar as he closed his eyes. "Out with it. What did she say?"

"It's...I want to clarify she wanted me to give it to you word for word." Crocodile opened one eye at the woman's nervousness. He breathed out the cigar smoke. "She said: Gotta do better than that if you think this is your dream."

A few beats of silence passed. Mr. 2 leaning towards Mr. 4 and not quite whispering of what that means and was that a love note. Mr. 4 shrugging in reply.

That woman and her talk of dreams, Crocodile nearly growled in thought as he clenched his jaw slightly around his cigar before taking another puff. What is she trying to accomplish?

You are aware of his stance on words like that. Aware that ambitions are more grounded to reality and hence to the merciless sea. Those talks of their's really reminded him when he was foolish and a brat, with how bright your eyes were as you talked about your sky reaching dream.

He recalled an early conversation between them, talks of history and dreams and ambitions. Of your tone and gaze, searching and seeming to look through him in your deep analysis despite how you had an oblivious and teasing disposition. As if his next few words would tip the balance, the scale—the decision that you would keep coming back to the desert country.

"Don't you wanna be in history, Crocs?"

Crocodile blew out his breath of smoke, holding the cigar within his hand as his lips lifted slightly. The agents outside of Nico Robin seemed to be thrown for a loop as they stared.

You and your naive ideals...

"Hmph. What else did she say?" Crocodile questioned, putting his cigar back into his mouth and straightening his expression as he looked back at Miss Doublefinger. As if his lips were not up in the first place. "Was that all?"

It couldn't be.

Miss Doublefinger pressed her lips together, not at all thinking of you calling her boss a drama queen, shaking her head.

"Nothing of importance."

She said something, Crocodile observed with a twitch of his brow. Nico Robin thinking the same as she seemed to hide a giggle behind her hand before straightening with a calm calculative smile.

"Did she say what she was going to do?" Nico Robin questioned with crossed arms as she walked towards the stairs, stopping when she got next to them. "I'm surprised she hasn't barged into Raindinners yet. If she was there before the scheduled time of eight o'clock, she would've been in Rainbase by now to directly confront her findings."

"What is missing is how she found out about the information in the first place," Crocodile added as he swiveled his chair slightly to stare out the glass windows, his gaze lazily following one of his Bananadiles swimming by. "She had suspicions of all types before, but she did not act on mere suspicion. She had a confirmation. Although this still does not explain her lack of reaction." Crocodile's eyes turned to the side back to Miss Doublefinger. "Outside of her other comments, what did she say?"

"She seemed to figure out that I reported to you the first time and connected the dots to something or other. I'm guessing on the reason how she never came back to the cafe." Miss Doublefinger concluded, Crocodile already knowing this. You're sharp. Just naive and big mouthed as well as oblivious in seduction tactics from others or yourself. "After giving the message once she connected that we were going to meet with you later on, Silver Blood stated she had other stuff to do and..." the blue-haired woman's brows furrowed as she placed her pipe between her lips, looking down.

Crocodile rose a brow.

"And?" He prompted.

Miss Doublefinger rose her head and turned her eyes towards everyone before landing on him once more.

"She said that we'll 'learn our lesson from someone else'. She didn't say who."

Crocodile's forehead furrowed as he leaned his hooked arm on the table, body still turned facing the windows as he looked straight ahead to see another Bananadile peeking inside the room. Sharp reptilian eyes curious as its tail swayed back and forth in the water lazily.

You're not handling this yourself?

You can't call on the navy due to your bounty and not having protection like he does due to his status. Outside of them, there's no one since Mr. 3 handled the Straw Hats and the Princess in Little Garden.

A gamble?

Crocodile released a low chuckle at the thought, his lips quirked up around his cigar as he turned his chair back towards the others.

You're truly soft, Crocodile thought in amusement. But perhaps I can have you next to me after all.

"It's of no consequence than," Crocodile stated to everyone as he leaned back against his chair. "Just follow the orders given to you. I'll handle Gin Chi myself."

It was than Mr.3, the bumbling useless weak candle maker revealed just how much he overestimated the man by stating he didn't get rid of the Straw Hats and the Princess and Crocodile having his Bananawani's handle the runt. He would pity them on how that wax man must taste, but Crocodile has more important things to worry about.

"The Straw Hats must've told Silver Blood," Crocodile realized with a clenched jaw, slamming his hand on the table with the crew's pictures as his agents flinched. "That explains her actions...but her words are another story."

You're not gambling on rookies are you?

Crocodile gave his orders once more to his agents and Nico Robin to contact the Billions. Calming down as he thought of how little chance those rookie pirates have as his lips quirked once more as he blew out smoke from his cigar.

What a pathetic gamble. Crocodile's smirk widened. Another lesson on how to bet is needed it seems.

.

.

.

Edited 02/11/21

Previously called Smokey!

If you guys haven't noticed yet, I am making Silver Blood's Observation Haki with a twist. A nice twist too. Everyone's energies feels different to each person, and can feel different at different times depending on emotions or inner thoughts.

It's a nice power, I think. And can explain for the future on why Silver Blood hangs with certain people despite how others see them.

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FANART CORNER

Chapter Text

"Th-thank you again so much , m-miss!" The man you saved from the oasis in the middle of Raindinners sniffled as the gathered crowd stared, a lady putting her hands on his wet shoulders as she too looked teary. "If it weren't for you...those Bananawani would've surely eaten me! Or worse, I could've drowned! Thank you so much, Miss (Y/N)!"

"Yes," the lady behind him cried, "thank you so much, miss (Y/N)!"

You crinkled your nose.

"Don't call me that." You said, still on the ground and wringing your drenched clothes as water drops fell onto the stone walkway leading up to Raindinners. You took off your hat and shook the drops with a grumble. "Just call me (Y/N). Stuff like 'Miss' makes me sound old or something. Man..." your eyes turned to the dropped meat/veggie kabob you were eating a few feet away. "Hah...you gotta learn how to swim, thank me like that. Although swimming down there was pretty great since I got so hot. Really...and those lizards..."

They didn't do much but you never thought as you dove for the citizen that Crocodile loved animals so much to have an aquarium below the casino. What a weirdo.

Unbeknownst to you as you focused on drying your hat, the crowd had looks of fear and awe in their faces. Your senses twitching but you didn't turn around as you placed your hat back on your head, turning it towards the newcomer that was shadowing you from the dreadful sun.

"S-its Sir Crocodile-sama!"

Oh man. You glanced at the civilians and their hands together with their expressions.

"Ah, Sir Crocodile-sama, s-sorry that we're gathering around here. We were just—"

You're pretty sure having being called sir and sama is just too over the top.

"Sorry, Sir Crocodile-sama. I—I fell into the water and—"

Silver eyes moved towards the crowd, immediately making everyone silence as dull eyes met your cross legged form below him.

"You're drenched."

You rose a brow.

"Nice observation. I have one too," The side of your lips lifted, "the 'Sir' makes you sound old. And having your eyes brows like that isn't doing you any favors."

The crowd turned pale, more stutters occurring and then apologizing out their mouths as they said they didn't mean to insinuate anything about Crocodile but the man just gave a bland reply.

"The wet dog look isn't helping you either." The man's own lips lifted into that mocking grin when your own lips fell, your eyes narrowing. "And the sir is out of respect. Which you clearly lack. But what I want to know is how you made such a mess of yourself already without any help."

Your brows furrowed at his tone at the end.

You can't tell if he meant something else...

Nonetheless, the man you saved spoke for you that he fell and you helped him due to your kindness and blah, blah, blah.

You giving him a dismissive wave when he thanked you once more, you saying once more that he needs to learn how to swim for that not to happen again. You looking back at Crocodile and stating he should add railings in this pathway to avoid this happening again, although you admit that the path is quite wide enough to not risk falling into the water. You turning towards the man's wife you assume and asking bluntly if he's a klutz. The man just bowing with depressed tears coming down his face. Only for it to increase when Crocodile replied impassively that he won't waste money on railings, those who cross the path should know to walk through the middle. You agreeing with a serious nod and affirmation on your lips before adding to the crying man he should not have his wife work so hard.

A hand than came in front of your face, you blinking at it before turning your head up towards the smoking scarred man.

"Let's clean you up, Silver Blood. Lest you make more puddles. Or litter with those precious sticks of yours."

You huffed are the disrespectful way he referred to your favorite delicacy in this country, now weeping and half eaten in the floor and not in your stomach.

"Those kebabs are pretty good ya know, you're just picky!" Nonetheless, your hand moved to grab his only to stop once you saw it was glistening. Crocodile's eyes zeroing in on the action before a brow was slightly raised when you randomly grabbed a woman's garb behind you to dry your hands as the woman shrieked despite you saying this was repayment, you turning back towards the hand and grabbing it. "You should really try it at that stall specifically though,"you lifted yourself up with Crocodile's help as he stared. "That kebab guy has the best ones, Drezol's is the name. He even gives nice discounts..."

You turned towards your hands still connected, before looking at Crocodile expectantly. His pale hand letting you go with the warmth still lingering on your own, as Crocodile moves towards the entrance with you moving beside him with your arms moving to the back of your head. Only for you to make a comment of confusion when they were going to the left side of the building and not the main entrance to the white grand staircase.

"You'll make more of a mess than you already have in my casino," Crocodile stated at your confusion. "The smell of wet carpet with no cleaner will surely have the customers smell something akin to wet fur." Despite your "Oi!", Crocodile continued with a smirk. "You also shouldn't be seen more by much others in your current state. You're dripping."

You frowned as you looked down at yourself and this time missing his tone, despite having your white long sleeved button up and your black tank top as well—you can see a hint of your black bindings peeking through. But it's not much.

"I've had worse. It really isn't that bad." Your arms moved to cross over your chest as they went around some palm trees and neared the side of the building. "I should shower though I guess, it's really hot today so jumping in there was actually a relief. But my poor food..."

As you said this, you lifted your collar slightly exposing more of your collarbone as silver lazily honed with Crocodile humming.

"You need to buy some Alabasta garb and keep it on your person if you wish to continue to come here like you've been doing. Any reason for this time?"

"I was around the area."

"Yes," Crocodile said in a drawl and in a way where you think he didn't believe you. Making you frown as you looked at him, with him glancing at you in the corner of his eye."Of course. Just how you are eager to get wet once more I imagine."

Your brows furrowed deeply.

What's with him continue to point out how soaked you are—your eyes widened as you flushed with the stupid reptile chuckling at your expression.

"WH—WHAT DID YOU S-SAY?! W-WHAT ARE YOU IMPLYING?!"

"So you understood that. I was wondering when you would."

"Why do—you always say weird things, Crocy!" You shouted, your arms tight around your chest as you looked away with a flustered scowl. "You guys are driving me nuts..." you muttered lowly to yourself where Crocodile couldn't hear before the both of you reached the side entrance door with Crocodile opening it and holding it for you.

"Don't call me that. And I don't recall saying something out of hand," Crocodile retorted, all of a sudden feigning obliviousness with a gleam in his eyes. "You stated you were going to shower to help with your current state. Your current state leaving a mess everywhere I'll have to arrange to be cleaned up," You flushed more at the hidden meaning which made his lips widen around his cigar before flattening. "What are you doing just standing there? I'm not going to hold this for you all day."

You tsked at his attitude, as Crocodile put his cigar between his fingers and blew to the side as you entered but not without calling him a sly Crocy and telling him he needs to fix his aquarium. Crocodile narrowing his eyes slightly as he closed the door behind you, him questioning how. With you merely stating that he can't just have his own private aquarium to himself and he should show it off. Crocodile hold on his cigar relaxing along with his shoulders as he put it back between his mouth as the both of you bantered back and forth with insults and quips.

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After landing in Rainbase in the middle of the night, you discreetly got a room in the small but expensive hotel called Royals that was more in the center of the city. A simple tent like roof over the entrance of the place, but a small chandelier welcomed you in its light when you entered along with the pinewood lobby desk to greet you to check in, a few people here and there walking around due to people feeling extra lucky in the cold hours of the night. Your gray robe thankfully provided a hood so you could cover your infamous marine hat and perhaps even shadow your scar on your left cheek.

You provided the money to the receptionist for one day and told them a different name as a precaution and headed to your room, which held a twin bed, a bathroom, and a bed stand table respectively. You got what you paid for really. You stayed in this hotel once or twice before Crocodile caught wind and offered you the VIP rooms of Raindinners, the casino being able to function as a hotel if one's lucky enough. You found his offer a little odd but he mentioned complimentary food service so you folded easily.

Curse you and your love for food. Especially those (meat/veggie) kebobs that are the cuisine here. You slightly drooled at the thought of those magical sticks before you shook yourself.

The jerk was making sure I didn't see more of his suspicious agents, you thought as you laid down on the bed after stripping into a more comfortable set that can work for you to sleep. But...I don't know...the other stuff doesn't make sense.

Kuroi ten'nosabaki seemed to wink at you with it's silver sheen next to the bed, but you unable to see it due to you checking if you were fine like this. The black bindings on your chest and upper abdomen being the only thing covering it and the underwear shorts that went mid thigh you had under your jean shorts seemed to suffice.

You did not like fully stripping in the first place, but your underwear was still conservative enough just in case people decided it was a good idea to attack you while sleeping. Or just get near you in general.

It has happened before after all. You rather not have your boobs waving about as you attacked in retaliation. The nips saying hello.

You snorted at the thought.

You had Karasu and your marine cap on the bed with you as you snuggled under the covers, feeling the cold desert air and went to sleep after checking the energies once more. Absently thinking the bed isn't as comfy as the ones in Raindinners.

You woke up with sweat in your skin and rumpled sheets, you sighing before gathering yourself and moving to shower within the small bathroom of your room. Allowing the hot water to calm you. You exiting the bathroom after doing your necessary hygiene and putting your clothes along with your gray black lined sleeved robe and checked the time. Seeing it was already mid afternoon.

You must've arrived here later than you thought, you didn't check the time when you checked in.

You blinked at all the energies you were feeling. Moving to look at the window to see marines everywhere only for you to blink once more when you looked down into the alley next to your building and seeing Chopper and Sanji there.

You frowned, your senses hinting to you where everyone else was. All in Raindinners.

He wouldn't.

Your eyes narrowed as your jaw clenched a tad.

Who are you kidding? He would. That stupid bastard is asking for it!

You quickly gathered your supplies from your room and checked out of the place before following the reindeer who wants to save and the cook who wants to creat energies since they moved on from the alley. You used Geppo and Soryu, or in other words Kamisori, to jump onto a roof of a tall casino building—the jockey race one to hide from the marines and what seemed to be Baroque Works Millions.

Billions?

Trillions?

You don't know. Too many numbers.

The real question is if you should try to distract the marines attention from the two Straw Hats. But you know Tashigi can be quite stubborn, both her and Smoker seemed determined to take the Straw Hats and not bother with you. You're way out of their league. It shouldn't stop marines from trying to catch you though...

You know what you're going to do.

You headed towards the front side of Raindinners, landing once you reached it in front of Sanji and Chopper who's eyes widened in surprise.

"Wha, you're here (Y/N)!"

"(Y/N)-chwan~! Your timing is impeccable just like your grace from that jump!"

You smiled at them before noticing the den den Mushi in Sanji's hands.

"Told ya we could meet here. But what's the plan? The others are in trouble right?"

They nodded, Sanji explaining to you the situation that everyone is in Raindinners. Him adding his plan for the Billions and the use of Chopper, you widening your eyes in disbelief and awe when Chopper transformed into what looked like a gorilla. You even exclaiming it with Chopper quickly correcting you it's his human form with you nodding and stating it was a human gorilla than with a serious look and Chopper shouting that it isn't with you laughing and waving at him.

"Ya need me to bring some Billions over here your way than? Or distract the other marines around while you do this?"

Sanji pointed down, you following and blinking at the unconscious body on the ground you didn't notice until now.

"With this, we'll have some of them come over already. The distraction will work and with Chopper, the plan is already in motion. But," Sanji took your hands between his and gave a charming smile, "We would love your help, (Y/N)-chwan~!"

"Ahhh..." You took your hands away from his with a sweatdrop and an awkward smile. "Okay. So marines it is. But be careful Chopper. Make sure you transform fast enough to lose him. But also make sure to run as fast as you can to keep wasting his time, yeah? He deserves it."

Chopper's innocent eyes blinked as he gave a confused noise of acknowledgment as Sanji was crying against the wall that his charms have no effect on you.

You nodding before giving them a wish of good luck and moving around the buildings and trying to gather marines that weren't with Tashigi. While trying to pay attention to the energies you were feeling within Raindinners as well.

You succeeded in gathering some of their attention although with some difficulty since they muttered to themselves they don't have orders to capture you. It was only until you stick your tongue out and told them you didn't think marines were this wishy washy with a criminal nowadays and that the marines really have gone downhill since you left. Them suddenly turning into a rage that was really just funny as you smirked and ran throughout all the alleys of the casinos and small motels, them yelling about getting your hat to stop disrespecting the marine name or something or other with you laughing at them that they have to catch you and paralyze you first before that can ever happen.

Storm likes the immovable rock. A declaration obliges.

Your smirk turned into a grin, thanking Luffy before quickly using Soryu and effectively losing the marines as you got onto a roof and went towards the energies.

You're in so much trouble, Crocy.

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A child (Y/N) grunted, as your body pushed up and down against the ground to do push-ups. Wanting to get stronger to lift up that big sword that you found in front of you and your mother's house.

Sweat came down your head as you gritted your teeth in agitation, already feeling the strain in your small upper arms.

Perhaps punching the trees again earlier didn't help.

"What are you doing?" Caught off guard, you landed on your face against the ground. Even getting some dirt in your mouth. You immediately spit it out as you lifted up your head to glare at the teen white-haired boy.

"What did it look like, you Smobaka?! Look what you did." You said as you wiped your mouth in disgust, the boy scowled at you.

"Who you calling an idiot, idiot?! I'm not the one with dirt on my face." Smoker observed as your glare deepened. He approached you and held a hand out towards your form. "Come on. That's enough training for one day. You didn't wait for me. Garp said to train together until his next visit." You looked at the offered hand, in silence. Not really seeing a hand to help often. You glanced to the side with a frown.

"...I don't need your help." You muttered, trying to get up on your own only to fail. As you were going to fall back on the ground Smoker caught your arm with a firm grip. You looked at him to repeat what you said only to see his eyebrows more furrowed then normal and have a small frown on his face.

"Idiot. You think I don't know you're strong on your own?" Your eyes widened as he continued with a quiet tone. "Nothing is wrong with accepting help sometimes. So don't think you're weak cause of it. You idiot."

You looked at him in silence as he slowly released your arm, causing to rub it as you appeared in thought.

A teasing smile then appeared on your face.

"Didn't know the bad boy would turn soft on me~." Smoker scowled with a mild flush as he balled his fists.

"You're an idiot!"

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You sat on top of the roof with slight anger at the Warlord for his actions and what he was planning to do. No one hurts your friends. No one. But you'll deal with that later.

You gazed down as the captain of the Strawhats and Captain Smoker stared at each other evenly. Smoker telling them to leave before the marines get here and he changes his mind. You smiled as you looked at the scene.

Smoker was a true marine. At least to how you saw marines should act.

You jumped towards the two, with Zoro waiting in the background.

Luffy looked at you with wide eyes and a smile.

"(Y/N)! You're back!"

You patted his head, telling him that you did say you would be. Your gaze then moved towards Smoker, who was already looking at you. Over his shoulder you spotted the incoming marines.

"Luffy. Zoro. You guys should hurry along and get out of here. I'll catch up to you guys." You stated as your eyes never left Smoker's form, him doing the same.

Luffy looked between you and Smoker and gave a nod, him giving a wide smile.

"Okay, and thanks Smokey!" The captain and first mate then left the pirate and marine as they stared silently at one another.

"Just because I said that Strawhat could leave, it doesn't mean it applies to you as well." Smoker said as he looked down at you. You let out a small smile, feeling the scar on your left cheek stretch at the action.

"Did it feel weird?" Smoker raised an eyebrow at your question, the marines yelling as they got nearer and nearer to the duo.

"To have someone else rescue you from the ocean?" Smoker widened his eyes as he looked at the nostalgic look on your face .

"You always seemed to somehow fall into it, and I was always by your side to rescue you. You'd always said you were a burden."

"I was. I was a brat back then." He finally spoke to you, his expression softening.

You shook your head.

"You were never a burden to me Smoker. Never. Never have I thought that. But,"you looked at him sadly,"I'm sorry that I was and still am."

The peace when one stares at the moon in silence.

"Stop that." Smoker said with a slightly annoyed but soft tone.

You looked at him oddly.

"Stop looking like that each time I see you. It's not you. You're not a burden. An annoying pirate that doesn't seem to leave me alone, but never a burden. So just get outta here."

You widened your eyes at him and gave a small smile.

"Are you going to arrest me the next time you see me?" You teased.

"What kind of question is that? Of course I am. It's my job as a marine to chase after you."

You gave out a small laugh and looked up at him through your eye lashes as you put a hand up to your cap.

"What do you mean SmoBaka? You've always tried to catch up to me since we were before marines."

You gave a quick and squeezing hug to your old friend, smiling at his warmness. With Smoker hesitantly giving a small squeeze back, his large arms loosely wrapped around your form. You pulled back and held onto your cap as you gave a grin at him.

"Till next time Smokey~!"

And you disappeared, the marines that were coming up before just arriving and beginning to frantically search the Strawhats and the famous Silver Blood. Smoker standing there as he took whiffs of his cigars, a hint of nostalgia and care in his eyes.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

You looked around the country of Alabasta, you got separated from the Strawhats once again, they probably heading to Aluburna. You were still in Rainbase and from what you've heard from the passing citizens, the rebels are going to fight the Royal Army there.

Dammit. You cursed as you walked the streets of Rainbase, passing the small stands as you went that were more in the corners of the oasis. You miss Drezol's kebabs, the other ones just don't taste the same. But hey, you took a last bite of the meat/veggie kebab you got from another and kept the stick in your mouth to play with as you walked with hands in your pockets, these aren't so bad neither.

You weren't sure if it was perhaps it was a good thing you got separated from the Straw Hats. The last thing you wanted is for them to know that you knew Crocodile, and you've been suspecting him of his actions earlier when you first arrived in this country a few days ago before deciding to leave because of lack of evidence. You should've known that something was clearly off once you first entered his casino during your visits. What kind of Warlord owns a casino?

Croc apparently. You scoffed in your mind.

Crocodile knew about your habit of defeating pirates you didn't like or approve of. Or just anybody really.

Normally, Crocodile would fit in into the category. But you've become slightly fond of the grouchy old lizard throughout the years you've known him but you won't ever say it. You snickered, Crocodile would kill you if he heard you say that out loud.

Or, your eyes darkened, tried to get all frisky with you earlier. He got too close for your liking when he found you by the market and decided to walk with you. It doesn't help that you know what he wants for he always seemed to claim you like a possession when you were around him. It also doesn't help that he almost caused the death of Smoker if it wasn't for the Straw Hats.

You made a noise of annoyance around the stick in your mouth.

You swear, he needs to back off and learn his place. The guy was too arrogant and calm about everything. His head was practically huge too, and says all those weird things...

But, he was also dangerous.

He's not the only dangerous man that you've been acquainted with though.

You facepalm as you thought about a certain annoying pinkie with a love of flamingo's.

The tempest in its destruction.

You felt the sand in the air shift, you immediately put a hand onto your Karasu hilt as you jumped on a roof to a tan building. Your eyes narrowed.

A figure was forming in front of you from sand, and out came Crocodile, his slack look on his face as he looked at you while you looked back with still narrowed eyes and a hand on the hilt of your sword on your hip.

"Crocodile."

"Silver Blood. What are you doing back here?" He spoke around his cigar as he calmly had his arms on his sides. You let go of the hilt of your sword once you realized he wouldn't attack you but you did tap the top of your boot to the floor. "Finally wearing proper Alabasta garb I see. And spit that out before you choke again."

A tick mark grew on your temple as you yelled that you wouldn't and it was just a handful of times and—

A feeling tickled in the back of your throat made your eyes widened as you suddenly turned your head to the ground below you, the stick flying out your mouth and hitting someone in the head and making them fall over but you weren't paying attention. You rubbing the back of your hand to your mouth as you pointedly avoided Crocodile's unimpressed stare before clearing your throat that certainly didn't almost get abused and went back to his earlier question.

"Something has been bothering me once again Crocodile. And I'm not sure if I like on what I'm thinking about what's going on in Alabasta."

He didn't seem quite ruffled by your statement(that's Doflamingo's thing anyways), but his eyes turned dark as he stared at you.

"Are you saying you don't trust my word that I said earlier?" He said annoyed.

You gave him a dry smirk.

"Should I trust a man who doesn't trust anyone around him but himself, Croc?"

You saw his eyebrow give a slight twitch at the nickname, making your smirk widen as you looked at him. A golden hook was in your line of peripheral vision, but you didn't move away from it as it moved your face this way and that. The Warlord drew closer to you carefully as your hand moved towards your sword as you stared at him evenly until he was in front of you. His form towering over you as you looked up at him.

"If you suspect me so much, are you going to do something about it?"

You looked up at him with narrowed eyes, his eyes seeming to scream 'Cocky bastard!'. His hook still moving up and down your face, seeming to tickle and tease you with the soft touches as it even grazed your scarred left cheek. You felt your face twitch from all around your face which you couldn't control, Crocodile smirking in amusement at your expressions as he began to lean in.

"Well? Famous daughter of Silver of the Molten Metal, what are you going to do?"

You looked at him and then gave an amused smirk.

"Nothing!"

The Warlord blinked.

"Excuse me?"

"I'll let other people take care of it. They'll deal with you, Croc-y. You got my message didn't you?"

He leaned back as he tried to search your expression for any doubt.

He found none.

"I hope you're not talking about the Strawhats."

Your smirked widened.

"Yup! What? They give you trouble already?"

The Warlord looked at you and then laughed his odd laugh. You're also surrounded by people who laugh weirdly. You didn't particularly like how he was laughing.

"Those rookie pirates? What could they do? I already handled their captain. You've put too much faith in them."

Your eyes narrowed, you searched with your Haki to locate a certain Strawhat. You internally cursed as you thought back at the sandstorm that was just outside Rainbase. That must've been the battle site. You should've known something was wrong.  You found the happy-go-lucky-captain, but it was small. Very small.

Too small.

But...its there, and it's not fading.

It seems Crocodile underestimated Luffy's resolve and will to live.

"It won't matter. If Luffy can't do it, his Nakama surely will."

You can't make it seem you know Luffy is alive and well. He needs the element of surprise, but you do wish to see the grouchy man's face once he sees Luffy's alive. That's what he gets for hurting Smoker, but this isn't your fight. It's the Straw Hats.

The man's lips turned to a frown as he leaned by your ear.

"You're being too naive for my liking Silver Blood (Y/N). I suggest for you to stop before I lose my patience." He rumbled, his breath fanning your ear. "That other part of your message too, you forget that dreams mean nothing to me."

He's threatening you.

But he's also acting like an idiot again.

You felt a tick mark on your temple as you clenched your teeth. The hell is this guy talking about?! His patience? Like you care. You're the one that's angry though. And not just cause Crocy can actually be pretty stupid.

You hated that word.

Naïve.

You're no such thing, perhaps back then, but not now. His stupid plaid vest is making his lizard brain small.

"I'm not naive Crocodile. So don't call me that." You growled out with a glare. "And I think you're lying about that."

He rose an eyebrow, amused.

"Did I strike a nerve? Wasn't aware you saw me as one with ideals like yours."

You used Geppo to get away from him and land a few feet in front of him, a glare still on your face as Crocodile looked on in amusement.

"I was a marine before I became a pirate. Remember that. I've seen what both sides can do with my own eyes, and I've been both myself. So don't call me naive. I know how the world works. I. Just. Don't. Care."

Crocodile just looked at you blankly at your little monologue. When he didn't say anything, you gave him a warning.

"And you should know Croc-y, I wouldn't have forgiven you for what you almost accomplished within your casino. An old friend of mine was there." You stated, your eyes dangerously  narrowed behind your Marine cap as Crocodile raised an eyebrow.

An old friend...White Hunter? Crocodile thought with a puff of smoke from his cigar.

"Also," you continued, "Don't underestimate the Straw Hats cause whatever is coming for you...it'll be delivered by them. And maybe with this..." You used Soryu before you were able to see Crocodile snap his cigar in half between his teeth.

Maybe with this, your tempest can go back to sea.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

You arrived in Aluburna already with the smell of gunpowder and the cries of swords against each other.

You made quick use of Mando the red Great Sandora Lizard on the other side of Alabasta after leaving Rainbase, but you had to swim the rest of the way. Thankfully the beasts in the river were wise enough to not bother you again and you had to run the rest of the way as fast as you could. You leaping and scaling the walls of Aluburna to enter the beautiful city with its white stone buildings and palm trees flowing in the wind.  Only for the sounds of war and some buildings and houses looking worse for wear.

You were now running through the streets and analyzing the situation when you spotted three figures running.

"Oi!" They turned towards you as you caught up to them, Chopper calling your name in surprise!

"W-we were wondering where you went (Y/N)!"

"A-ah! (Y/—(Y/N)!" Usopp called from his heavily bandaged form atop the camel besides them making you question in concern as he blinked in surprise. "Eh? This? T-this is just my efforts of fighting two agents all by myself!"

Chopper raised a hoof, a tick in his face.

"EH?! I helped too, Usopp!"

"(Y/N)-chwan~!" Sanji called to you, his legs looking like they were swirling as he ran next to you. "Your concern for everyone is so kind! I fought too! Look at my injuries and how hard I worked!"

"Oh." You said, a smile on your face with a sweatdrop before laughing. "You guys really are pretty funny. But what's happening now?"

They have you the rundown of the agents they took out and they were planning on continuing the route to the main plaza in front of the palace. Usopp stating the agents they fought said something stupid like saying Luffy lost and Chopper even looking concerned despite Sanji's words to them.

"Ehhhh, what am I hearing? You guys don't believe in your captain?" The reindeer and long nose looked at you with Sanji continuing to stare straight ahead as they ran along with you. "You think he's going to be the King of Pirates right?"

"Ye-yes!"

"Of-of course! That idiot...he's fine!"

You smirked at their words, satisfied. You can spot Sanji giving his own smile as he looked ahead. You than noticed some areas in between buildings where first aid seemed to be given as well as noticing others trying to recover unconscious bodies to said areas. Taking note that some civilians are still trying to escape still. And who knows how many more are stuck in their homes.

You turned towards them.

"Guys, you guys go on ahead. I need to help save lives over here." Your senses tickled as you motioned your head towards the palace, then moving their heads to that direction. "You guys have to go that way. If you guys keep going straight and make a right after passing two blocks, it'll take you straight towards where you need to go. After I do what I can here, I'll meet you guys later, yeah?" You threw them a wry grin their way. "Ya guys have Vivi-Hime depending on ya!"

"Yes, (Y/N)! I-I would help with the injured here too but..." Chopper shook his head and had a small tired smile in his cute face. "We have to help!"

"(Y/N)-chwan your words of inspiration can make my heart skip a beat!" Sanji than threw a thumbs up at you, his cigarette smoke curling along with the cook's smile. "Don't worry, we'll see you!"

"Y-yeah!" Usopp exclaimed as he sat up more on the camel, new vigor in his eyes as he did so and clenched his bandages hand that looked more like a volleyball than a hand due to how bandaged up he is. "Y-you know you don't seem that scary anymore—EH?! SHE DISAPPEARED?!"

You heard Usopp exclaim when you used Soryu, laughing to yourself that he must've heard as he heard him shriek along with Chopper.

"AHHH?! A GHOST?!"

"I TAKE BACK WHAT I SAID!"

"Why am I stuck with you two again?"

You shook your head as you turned towards the soldiers and civilians as the Straw Hats ran to where you guided them. Them quickly accepting your help as they gave you little supplies they have as the unconscious bodies laid on the floor with blankets below them. Minor to severe injuries, but still able to be fixed with. You've injured yourself countless times from fights as well as training, especially when you trained under Mihawk back in his island. Although you did injure yourself a lot as well when you attempted to cook during your stay. The looks he would give you...

You shook yourself once more with a small smile, moving to another area where there were injured by dashing closer to the plaza where the battle was occurring as the people behind you shouted their thanks. Your senses continue to itch at you with everything going on. Even just the citizens, soldiers and rebels energies seeming to shout towards you.

Desperation. Hope. Save the country!

And those weren't the only ones.

Protect the country's blood.

Vivi.

The storm won't stop.

Luffy.

A nick to the sword.

Tashigi.

Calm anger.

And...

Words meant to be read.

Your mouth twisted, feeling their locations. You huffing and stopping from your dashing through the streets, seeing others with injuries and them blinking at you as you suddenly appeared to help. Being resistant at first but stating that they're wasting time by talking instead of saving. You moving to help someone with their broken arm as you thought seriously. You...gotta do more than this. The Straw Hats should accomplish this, but the others around need help too.

After finishing the bandage on the rebel's arm, you stood and used Soryu after a hasty goodbye and warning they should leave a little more down to be safe from any stray gunshots. Getting atop the roofs of the building and heading towards the one who feels as if their ideals shattered.

You spotted the navy haired woman upon the ground, calling her name in concern as she lifted herself up and put her glasses on as wide eyes turned towards you.

"Ah...Silver Blood (Y/N)?" You landed upon the ground as you assessed her, seeing despite her wounds—she's relatively unharmed. You moved to lift her up with your arm around her shoulder as Tashigi stared in anguished confusion as you looked at her in concern. "What...why? Is this...I never understood when you came to us on purpose. I think I know your feelings but they're so....We're supposed to...why...pirates are...is this what Smoker-san meant...?"

You stared at her from the corner of your eye as you held her, her expression scrunched as her eyes shone with tears going down.

"I told you back than not everything is black and white, remember?" Tashigi started in your arms, lifting her head slightly for her eyes to turn towards your face—your lips slightly quirked into a semblance of a smile. "Why I left. Why this is happening...why the Straw Hats are helping. I don't know what that Smobaka said but...he can sometimes say some wise things." Your lips lifted more into a genuine smile as you turned back ahead in front, Tashigi's eyes wide in realization as she looked at the side of your face as you made a move for them to move. "Now, let's go! We got people to save Tashigi, I can't show off Karasu to you with me lugging you everywhere like this."

Tashigi continued to gape at you, earth orbs shaking. (Y/N)... Tashigi straightened, you looking and muttering in concern but Tashigi waved you off, fixing her glasses and having a glint in her eyes that made you smirk.

"We have to hurry and evacuate others," Tashigi stated in between panted breaths, moving to put a hand to the wall to steady herself. "There's a bomb about to hit in—" she moved to check her watch, her breath hitching, "In four minutes!"

"A bomb?" You repeated before shaking your head. That crew can do it, this is how you can help. Instead looking at Tashigi sternly. "I've done my best before I got here but let's keep doing this than!"

Tashigi gave a a strong affirming yes, pushing herself off the wall and doing a light jog that surely made her injuries cry out as you kept her pace before moving on ahead to see the stragglers you can find. You pointing others you've passed to Tashigi as she nodded and quickly calmed any citizens that are stuck in the middle and with your guidance on where to go—moved them. Soon enough, you turned towards a crowd of marine soldiers came to the both of you as Tashigi calling out to them as they stared at you in surprise.

"Eh?! It's Silver Blood again!" A marine called while holding his rifle.

"What are you doing to our sergeant?!" Another one shouted, taking aim as you looked at them blankly.

"Sergeant, are you okay?" An additional one called as he turned towards as Tashigi tried to calm them down. "Silver Blood, you really like messing with our Sergeant and Captain!"

"You guys sure like pointing first and not asking questions later, huh?" You said as you pushed a gun muzzle out of your face casually as they blinked at you as you rose a brow. "You guys don't knock before you come in either? You'll get flashed like that, ya know. Or a foot to your face. Or a scream that will make your ears ring. Or learning a life altering secret. But mostly you might just get flashed."

"YOU SAID TOO MANY EXAMPLES!" The marines yelled with their hands out and ticks in their faces.

"Ah," You scratched your left scarred cheek, looking up in thought and remembrance with a small awkward smile. "I'm bad at knocking when angry."

"YOU HAVE NO ROOM TO TALK!" They shouted in unison.

"Everyone, calm down," Tashigi stated sternly with her soft voice. "Listen, we are going to help the people in the battle get away who aren't fighting. We need to support the Straw Hats as well! There's a bomb and we need to stop it or else everyone in this plaza will die! This is an order!"

The marines lowered their weapons in confusion, you looking at Tashigi with prideful eyes as you put a hand to her shoulder and gave her your compliment that she's becoming a true leader with Tashigi slightly flushing and muttering an excited really before straightening by fixing her glasses with her eyes to the side. When the marines looked they would question her, you turned your eyes towards them with a smirk—saying in a cold tone if they will question their superior in front of an enemy like you and they quickly stopped and saluted after that. You informed Tashigi that for some reason you sensed Zoro away from the group, remembering how he somehow got lost in the Merry before and may have directional problems, and to guide him back to the main plaza. With you helping. Tashigi gave you a nod and told a handful of soldiers to follow you to help Zoro. That they must protect as many lives as they can at all costs.

"Yes, Sergeant!" They all echoed with a firm salute this time before following you after you told them to do so. Heading towards the west of Aluburna until you spotted a head that looked like a leaf due to the hair color, who looked lost and confused somehow even though the smoke should be seen in an obvious direction.

"Oi! Zoro!" You called, Zoro turning to you only to widen his eyes at the marines around you. His hands on his two swords tightening.

"What-?! How'd you bring marines over here?!"

"Roronoa Zoro!" A marine called while pointing to the direction of the plaza. "You lost or what?"

"Yeah, how did you end up over here? The plaza was that way!"

Zoro's face just formed into more of a confused flustered scowl as the marines went on, them asking him sincerely if he's stupid which made you chuckle.

"They may have a point, Zoro." You said lightly, approaching him despite his swords being out as you threw him a grin. "You have to go to the plaza. You've been going the wrong direction, can't you see the smoke?" You asked while pointing a finger to the north as Zoro gritted his teeth.

"I'm obviously going towards the smoke! I was just heading that way before you guys stopped me!"

"Pfft, yeah okay," You said.

"That seems doubtful." A marine added.

"Yeah, you're not going the right way at all, pirate."

"Are pirates brain dead?"

You laughed as Zoro's expression morphed into an angry scowl filled with teeth and ticks.

"OI!"

"Come on, Zoro!" You placed a hand to his shoulder, in an attempt to calm him as you still had your lips lifted. "We have to hurry, there's a time limit. Just follow!" You moved in front of him in a light jog. Zoro behind you making a tsk and a low mutter about you being a weirdo but nonetheless following you but kept his tense form as the marines behind him followed suit before they split off. Them telling the both of you to not do anything "funny", which made your lips quirk again with Zoro just grunting but your attention was grabbed when you felt the need of a storm to protect and a reckoning to be had. And...the desperate need to read yet acceptance of the setting sun.

It made you turn your head towards the direction, Zoro taking note of it as he glanced at you as the both of you ran.

"What?"

"...weird," Is all you said, feeling the different sorts of anger but they both just seemed to blend together with ideals that are different yet... and that energy you've been feeling since four years ago...it felt more sad if that was even possible. You turned your head to meet Zoro's questioning stare. "You just have to keep going ahead like this, this will be north. I have to check something. Just make sure your shadow stays to the right of you and you'll going the right way." Zoro looked to see what you were talking about, frowning in thought.

"What?" He repeated again, brows furrowed  as he turned back towards you only to see empty air. He scowled. "OI! YOU CANT JUST KEEP DOING THAT!"

You ran along the rooftops after using Soryu, you grinning mischievously at hearing Zoro's indignant yell but he'll be fine. He has a declaration to fulfill.

But seriously... you felt the energies, and you made the connection of the one that always seemed to love and just feel like all that nerdy stuff. Of sadness. Of self-hate.

And it made you connect another missing piece of what that reptile would want if he isn't interested much in money nor royalty.

It just made you think:

What an idiot.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

You warned him.

You did.

And now look, covered by ancient ruins from his supposed plan of his. You are aware of the existence of Pluton, the weapon that the World Government wants to keep under wraps by having Poneglyph reading illegal. Who didn't know? Whether you were a marine or not, everybody knew the lengths the World Government went with the island of Ohana. As well as the Void Century of when and how the World Government came to power. The weapon that could destroy islands. What Crocodile wanted. You didn't think he would be able to achieve it, not without one integral piece to read it.

The one woman who others state was a villain as a child. Who was the same age as you when you got lucky at not being alone anymore but she was.

Nico Robin.

No wonder her energy felt like that. A mix of wistfulness, a heavy heart and yet a need to learn.

All of this made you want to scowl in annoyance and irritation.

But look at you, trying to get the ruins off of him so he can breathe a little easier from his fight with Luffy. You managing to get lucky that the Straw Hats left the area of the temple ruins, and that the large reptile landed a bit away from the temple too. The storm gave a lot of damage to the warlord. But here you are, trying to help the arrogant man for a reason you can't possibly search for or understand. It wasn't the first time this has happened.

You were like this with him too.

You clenched your teeth as you lifted up the last rock off of him, and took his arm around your shoulders to move him a little bit aways from the fallen Royal Ruins. The Poneglyph now unreachable, hidden beneath the rocks.

The sea calls.

"Silver Blood." You glanced at Crocodile who looked tiredly at you, his voice scratchy. You made a noise in the back of your throat in acknowledgement as you began to put him back on the ground. He growled but you ignored him, there was nothing he could do anyways. Once he was down on the ground, you leaned back on your heels as you squatted on the floor. Kuroi ten'nosabaki glinting in the sun in silence as Karasu's usually thrumming was also quiet.

"I told you Crocy. You should've listened for once. Or just not have done this all together." You said, looking at him with no emotion in your eyes. Crocodile scowled and looked away from your face. "Mah...well, I won't repeat myself about these ambitions of yours instead of dreams. I don't really like being a broken record and I know you don't wanna hear one either. Makes the meaning lessen. But...I know you get it either way."

"When I die I'll still live."

"You're speaking like a fool."

"Tch, and you're speaking like someone with no ambition. When I achieve my dream, people will remember. They'll know of the strongest woman in the world and some history book in the future will have my name right there! They can't and will not forget even when I die, cause I'll make sure everyone will remember it even in death! Don't you wanna be in history, Crocs?"

Crocodile didn't turn at your words, his half lidded eyes instead closing a tad more.

"Tch...the marines are at fault as well," you clenched your fists as you glared at the ground,"they haven't been paying much attention to you the last few years. They hardly pay attention to anything really." You muttered out. Crocodile glanced at you, seeing the hate in your eyes. A look that was bone chilling and could possibly freeze anyone who saw it.

It suited those dark eyes of yours.

But, at the same time, it didn't.

"Why?" He asked, bringing you out of your state as you looked at him with blinking eyes. You then looked at him evenly, and said with a shrug.

"I don't really know," you began slowly, "I tend to save people I claim to dislike. It seems to have become a habit. It doesn't mean I'm not going to let the marines have you. That's a little too much."

He looked at you and chuckled, his eyes seeming to hold less edge to them.

The wind stirred.

"You really are naive aren't you?"

You flushed in embarrassment, as well as confusion at his soft look and your blood seeming to thrum at his energy. Clearly caught off guard by the sand man.

"W-what?! I told you not to call me that!"

He smirked.

"Make sure when I'm wherever the marines leave me at, that those other idiots don't come for you. You're mine to taint."

Your eyes widened. A small tick mark then formed on your forehead.

"Excuse me?!" You yelled. You then blinked your eyes as you processed his sentence fully.

"Wait, what idiots?"

The Warlord sighed, closing his eyes.

"Oblivious as well..." Crocodile muttered out tiredly.

When he didn't seem to open his eyes once again, you decided to leave him finally. You glancing only once behind you before you disappeared.

.

.

.

Edited 03/14/21

Combined the previous chapters of Nostalgia, Mr. 0, and Naive and of course again added some scenes.

I really like Crocodile and Silver Blood's relationship(who am I kidding, I love all the men's relationship with SB and how they grew) so I wanted to give hints just how someone as high spirited and loud and totally not graceful like SB can manage to snag Croc's attention.

And that's without the obvious first meeting of course ;D

Hope you guys enjoy! I'm really liking all the little flashback scenes and flashback words~ Hope you guys did too! Thank you!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

FANART CORNER

Chapter Text

Afterwords, the rain pouring on your walking form with hands in your pockets—you noticed another body once you reached the main area of Aluburna again. You blinking at the barbecued body, remembering the explosion in the sky as you widened your eyes and quickly squatted down next to the burnt man—analyzing.

He's breathing. Guess you're just gonna be a luggage of bodies today.

You assessed him once more as well as the surroundings and seeing everyone was too busy celebrating that it's now raining in this once drought filled country or focusing on other injuries on both sides.

"This is gonna hurt," you warned to him strongly before picking him up bridal style since your buster sword would be in the way. You don't think the man needs anymore metal to the face. The man giving a painful groan as you did so but was still unconscious. "Let's take ya to someone who can help, hero. The smell of burnt skin isn't as appetizing to me."

You walked through the streets and passed by the various citizens, soldiers and now Ex rebels as they called the name of the man you were carrying in surprise and offering to help but you said it's best if you do it until you can lay the Royal guard named Pell in a cot. The ones you assisted telling you another of their thanks for helping them, as you gave them a small smile with a pang.

You passed by Tashigi and the other marines as well, them seeming to leave and your eyes met. You flashing her a small smile and a nod, Tashigi's eyes blinking before giving a slight nod in return before turning her back—the both of you continuing on through the battle torn streets of the royal palace city.

"Ah, (Y/N)-san. There you are, who are you—Pell?!" You glanced at the Princess as she ran towards you in anguished concern with the king standing still behind her. When she came to your side she peered at the ma!'s face in your arms. "What...is he...?"

"He's alive," you answered as Vivi gave a relieved sob as the King ordered others for a cot immediately. "Gotta be careful with him though. Have you seen everybody else? Where are they?"

Vivi pointed to where she last saw the Straw Hat crew before she had to leave to make her speech along with her father. You laying Pell on the cot, the King touching your shoulder that they owe you a debt with you feeling odd at his sincere expression with wet eyes before waving him away that you just did what anyone would do. You than walking through the streets till you saw the Straw Hats on the floor.

All sprawled out and looking exhausted but their faces in peace as they slept.

You smirked, squatting near Luffy and releasing a chuckle as he mumbled "Meat" as your gaze stared at the young boy who had a storm within before your (e/c) eyes moved to each member of the Straw Hats.

"You guys...you're going to do great things. You already have...fresh in the Grand Line and already making waves. Or," you tilted your head, looking in thought as raindrops fell from your cap onto the floor, "is it...Dawn?"

You shook your head, taking note of Ace's absence and that he was already gone to find this Blackbeard. You need to watch out for the papers that he's alright or if any islands have spotted him, you'll be his backup if necessary no matter what he says.

You stood, calling the attention of the Royal doctors for them to come here with cots for the tired crew. You watching as they handled all of them and took them away. You eventually following them as you kept your watchful gaze on the crew before stopping at the entrance of the palace, staring up at the large imposing yet beautiful structure that is unique only in Alabasta before Vivi came beside you, still injured but with a smile that was less tense like before.

More free.

"Beautiful, isn't it?" Vivi asked, as she stared wistfully at her home. "It's a little hurt now but we'll soon get it to how it looked before. Before everything. This place—no, this country...I'm really glad it's alright."

You gave her a side glance, lips twitching up.

"You got good friends."

Vivi hummed, eyes glittering in happiness before turning towards you.

"It's also cause of you," Your eyes widened a fraction at her grateful look. "You really helped me and this country. Now that I look back on it...back than, you were just keeping those Pirates away from here when you visited. I'm sorry I read you wrong. You even found Pell. You really did a lot."

"I really didn't," you answered, the corners of your lips up feeling a little tight. "Save your thanks for that crew right there. They really went far and beyond I think anyone could've imagined." Except maybe Shanks with Luffy. Or Mihawk with Zoro. "You've got amazing friends. Keep them close, yeah?"

Vick's expression than turned a little sad before she said a yes but you rose a brow at her.

"Are you going with them?"

"I...I have to think...my country," She tightened her hands on her robed thighs, "They need me but..."

You waved a hand at her.

"You don't gotta explain to me with whatever you're going to do. Whatever it is, it'll be the right one either way."

Vivi's head turned towards you, surprised and hopeful.

"You really think so?"

"Yeah," you said casually, putting your arms behind your head as you stared up at the sky that rained drops of hope and peace. "A Princess willing to do what she must for her land and a friend that cares for others deeply and greatly. Pick whichever, you're both really. They'll understand either way I think. They're your Nakama right?"

Vivi stared, eyes a little wet as she released a wobbly smile.

"Y...yeah!"

After that, Vivi let you in so you could rest but did it discreetly like the Royal doctors did with the straw hats due to the marine presence still in the country. You rested up in a separate room from where the Straw Hats were and Vivi, helping around the castle with moving large supplies since your strength is nothing to laugh about and you can carry building supplies or large crates of medicine your self.

Although, the image of a small woman carrying a mountain of crates on her shoulder would make people stare you guess. Their eyes didn't have to be so wide though.

Did they expect you to carry all the stuff in front of you? How will you be able to see where you're going?

Once everyone awoke, the feast officially started but not without you apologizing to everyone first that you weren't near them to help much, all of them making an odd face including Vivi.

"It's okay!" Chopper said around his injuries, Vivi nodding at his words and giving you a smile.

"I already told you before, you helped a lot. Even after it. The fight wasn't even meant to involve you in the first place really. I'm sure you would've helped more if you could!"

"Shishishi! You're a good person (Y/N)!" Luffy shouted with a laugh, between him eating his feast of food. Some crumbs coming out of his mouth as a result. "Although you're pretty weird."

"You have no room to talk!" Nami, Sanji, and Usopp yelled at him with their hands raised in a chopping motion.

"(Y/N)-chwan looked amazing running around and doing her best!" Sanji swooned, hearts seeming to come out of him. The amount of the pinkness made you sweat drop and couldn't help but think of a more giant pink shape. "I could only wish that one day I can see you use that sword and out show us all with your magnificent and graceful power~!"

"Masochist." Zoro stated blandly with a sip of his beer. "You're more of a pervert than I thought."

Sanji turned in his seat of the long feast filled table, ticks on his face.

"WHAT DID YOU SAY, MARIMO?!"

"You heard me, Ero Cook. You got a serious—hey! Don't steal my food Luffy!" Zoro swatted his stretched captain's arms away from his plate, only for it to be naught since he got stabbed with Luffy's fork. He hissed. "You stabbed me! Man, I have no time to argue about your weird fetishes, Swirly Brow." He said before he quickly went ahead and tried to eat his plate before Luffy did.

"I don't have any fetishes you idiot! Appreciating women and how they take charge and being all over me isn't a—Dammit, Luffy! You're spitting food at me!"

Sanji raged as Usopp stared at him with a sweatdrop, Luffy just continuing to eat like it was his last meal as you stared at how his food disappeared in front of him like magic. You quickly eating the food in front of you yourself despite the lingering questions, having to stuff your face due to Luffy's hand stretching towards you as you sat next to the baffled Usopp.

"What exactly were you going to say...?" The future and hopeful brave warrior asked.

"Stop it, Luffy!" Nami yelled with a smack to her captain's face, only making his eyes gouge out from surprise and nearly choke with his hands to his neck and seeming to struggle. Nami sighed, handing him a glass of water. "Here you idiot, and slow down!"

Luffy didn't slow down.

After you were satisfied and called the kitchen for their famous (veggie/meat) kebabs this country has, having enough as Luffy kept going. You turned back towards them.

"You guys seem to have a good read on me already for some reason." You observed, going back to what they stated earlier about you, mildly impressed at the crew. But questioning on how exactly they would think such a thing. "It was just a bit ago you guys were scared of me."

Zoro glanced over to you, spotting your slightly furrowed brows.

"Luffy's brother shared some stories about you before he left to search for the guy he was looking for." Zoro answered your silent question as he took a sip of his alcohol, causing you to glance up at him. Wondering what kinds of stories your friend shared. "That, and we all know that not all rumors are true."

"Some may be true," Usopp muttered quietly to himself nervously but you didn't hear as you were too busy thinking on what Ace could've said.

It better not be about what I think it is, you thought with a mild flush. The guy knew some embarrassing stuff about you from your time knowing him. I told him that story with all my trust in the line!

"That you beat up pirates and marines that you deem wrong. And who've hurt others. " Zoro finished. You straightened at that, calming yourself but still feeling a turn of your gut.

Oh. That.

"Seems like you're exactly the opposite of what those rumors say (Y/N)-chan." Sanji commented, through a sip of his own drink before again having to knock Luffy away with a shout and thank turning towards patting the choking Chopper who was struggling to eat as fast he could.

You only hummed.

They can come up to their own conclusions about you. You're just going to stay silent.

It was a great time as the feast continued, you laughing freely at Usopp's hot sauce prank towards Luffy with a loud guffaw. The guards around eventually loosening up and laughing themselves as a round Luffy danced atop the table with Chopper having chopsticks up his nose and Usopp balancing about nine plates with his nose alone, you deciding to join in by holding the round Luffy as he kept twirling upon your left hand and Usopp with his plates atop your right. The rest of the crew and the guards as well as Royals laughing and clapping at the spectacle.

It was a grand party and made you feel light, similar to when you're near the sun. But instead you're around the encompassing storm.

You...really loved it.

Afterwords, as the others were on their way to their rooms due to the King inviting them to the royal baths, the King stopped you.

"(Y/N)-san," You turned from your conversation with the exuberant Luffy, the story of when you and Shanks and some of the crew swam in the glowing blue lakes of Gippsland Island only for their bodies to have them glow blue due to the waters for days. "May I have a word?"

"Awwww, why?! (Y/N) was getting to the good part." Luffy complained with a pout only for it to smooth when you waved at him dismissively with a smile.

"It's alright. I'll finish it later. Go on ahead, Luffy." You than put an arm around the young boy's shoulders, your smile turning into a playful grin as you whispered. "Make an awesome cannonball in the baths alright? The Future Pirate King needs to make the largest waves to show you really are gonna be the next one."

Before you even finished, you arm stayed alone in the air as he zipped by with a whoop and a yell that he'll be the Pirate King and no one can splash like him. Zoro starting after his captain with arched brows and bewilderment as he Luffy what the heck he's talking about.

You turned towards the King with a polite smile only for your eyes to widen.

He was bowing deeply towards you.

"H-hey, I—you shouldn't do that," you waved your hands nervously around him, as if the placating motion would make him stop. "You're a King. Kings...they don't do this."

The King didn't acknowledge your words, only stayed in his deep bow.

"Kings are humans too," he said, your mouth parting at how different he was to all the others you've met—in disbelief. "And you've done a lot for this country. Not only with saving my royal guards life—who surely would've died due to his injuries from the bomb, but also for what you've done in the past." Your brows furrowed, the King standing up as he stared at you with a regal smile but much more open than you've seen before. He acted as if the two of you were in the same level. "Your past actions here in this country...you were like my daughter trying to gain evidence, yes?"

You looked away, hands in your pockets.

"I didn't really succeed in that...I didn't do much. It's really Luffy and everybody else you need to thank."

The King's smile only widened, his eyes seeming to look through you when you glanced back at him.

"And I shall. Nonetheless, know you are welcome here in this country any time."

You didn't know what to say, so you merely nodded while giving a stiff bow back—apologizing for the bow and saying you really haven't greeted a Royal like this in a long time only for the King to laugh and wave it away, saying he doesn't mind and it was still quite good. You knew he was just being nice though. You're pretty sure your arms are supposed to be in front of you instead of to the side.

You think you were also supposed to bow more deeply? It wasn't exactly ninety degrees. You're not sure. You're trying to protect your back.

Gotta be in top shape to be the world's strongest woman after all!

Soon after you walked away, you cursed within your thoughts.

God dammit, Crocodile! Look what you have done! Next time I see you, you're totally gonna hear more from me you arrogant reptile.

You thought, heading to your room with a mild scowl due to your situation.

You don't really know why you automatically thought you would see him again, despite his definite departure towards Impel Down. Probably because the scarred man's head might be too big for the place.

Either way, it's a gamble you're willing to make.

You have a feeling that the grump would get upset if you didn't take the gamble either.

Him and all those lessons of betting and gambling when you would play in his casino...like really...

The one in a million chance games are more your thing anyways.

Once you reached your room, you passed by Nami and Vivi with towels. Nami taking note of you with a curious smile, only to falter when you didn't have a towel yourself.

"Eh? Aren't you going to take a bath with us?" The orangette asked incredulously. "You must be as tired as we are...you've been running around helping everybody while Luffy was still sleeping."

"She doesn't have to if she doesn't want to, Nami," Vivi reasoned but turned towards you with a kind smile. "But you should join us, (Y/N)-San! It's a rare opportunity to enjoy the baths. We usually only use it when it rains and now..." Vivi didn't have to finish. It was obvious.

You answered with a casual shrug, a casual grin on your lips as you kept your hands in your pockets.

"I don't really mind. I can just take a shower or something. Besides," you said, you suddenly scratching your cheek sheepishly with a slight flush on your cheeks as you looked to the side. "I have bad luck with saunas and Royal baths. I always end up in the wrong side..."

You kept your mind away from Kuraigana Island as much as you could, only to flush anyways under your hat at the memory of steam and heat—oh wait, that's your ears right now. That's without even thinking of other incidents elsewhere too.

Vivi blinked while Nami rose a brow, a teasing smile tugging her lips.

"I didn't know you were a pervert~."

"W-what?!" You yelped, face red and defensive. "N-no I'm not! It's accidents! They were all accidents I swear! I j-just hate knocking! And reading! Also he made me mad and—"

"I get it," Nami interrupted blandly before smiling once more, bringing you close with a hand to your shoulder as you stared bewildered. Nami rubbing her pointer finger and thumb together suspiciously. "This is just going to be more blackmail than I already have on you than before. Now you have to come or you'll owe an additional five thousand beli for denying me and I'll spread to the next island we go to about your little...habits."

You paled.

"Wh-what?! You're a menace!" You accused, waving your arms in the air in a mix of playful outrage and denial of this happening to you as Nami pulled back. She wouldn't! "Scoundrel! Cheat! Money licker! Eating green machine! Belilocoholic!"

"That sounded hard to say." Vivi couldn't help but point out with a small uncertain smile as you kept going. Adding that Nami charged too much for her juice, calling it debt inducing fruit and that she better not do this to anyone else because others might end up homeless trying to pay her back! "And money licker sounds like boot licker really...Although this is a little much, Nami."

Nami only shrugged a shoulder, sticking out her tongue playfully. You than stopped, sighing in defeat before going to your pockets and digging.

"You're sure determined, I'll give you that. But I think it's best that I go now. You guys should too, the marines are everywhere and if they follow protocol—they'll have all ports closed. I think I'll check if your ship is alright if you guys are going to do this before leaving myself."

"What?" Nami questioned. "What about saying goodbye to everybody else?"

Vivi turned towards you, brows furrowed with a questioning expression.

You smiled, taking your hand out to have a clip of one hundred thousand belis. Nami's eyes turning into Beli signs in ecstasy, hands immediately catching it when you threw it to her.

"I wouldn't do that. I have to say a nice see ya later. Oh, and you can keep that. I wasn't really keeping count of all these debts you kept saying I owe but I think that covers it. But about that seeing everybody off thing..." You put a hand to your chin in thought before getting an idea. "Oh! How 'bout this? We can check off the port of Erumalu? I think that should be good."

"You owe me fifty thousand Beli." Nami stated seriously, her face in front of yours. Your brows furrowing as you sweatdropped nervously.

"Uhhh, that can't be right. I'm pretty sure I gave you enough..."

"I think we need to a financial contract than. You clearly need to come with me and the ship to cover all these finances. After all," Nami evilly grinned, your sweat in the back of your head increasing as she leaned over you as you leaned back. Kuroi ten'nosabaki even having sweat gathering upon the metal. Karasu hissing in denial at the strawberry blonde's gall. "You acted like a hundred thousand Beli was nothing. You didn't even count your debt to the exact numbers!"

"We-well...it just doesn't seem important I guess..." You're really bad at financial stuff. Well, maybe just okay. Hina showed you how to keep track of your money when you were younger but it's a lot of things so you just had a wallet with money and if you paid for something than you paid for it. Writing all the stuff down you paid for sounded too much work. It's not like you were a big spender anyways. Than or now, now you just have more money laying around due to your adventures. "Besides...what's the fifty thousand even for than? I feel like the hundred thousand would cover that additional debt you just added...I think?"

"You don't even know!" Nami exclaimed.

"H-Hey! I do know!"

"I have a feeling you shouldn't be left alone for too long, (Y/N)-San." Vivi commented with a smile.

"Why do people say that?!" You shouted, embarrassed. "I'm perfectly fine! I don't just run around flipping countries or anything—oh wait. There was this one time with this retired marine guy. And than that awful birth to Royal or slave based on genes in that other kingdom. Or that other one with—"

You felt a hit to your hard noggin, your head still leaning forward due to the hit as Nami yelped and held her hand.

"OW! Why do you have a hard head?! And we get it! You're an idiot!"

"That's not nice." You said with a pout, rubbing your head.

"You're crazy!" Nami snapped with sharp teeth before sighing. "Ah well. Too bad you can't join us. You'd be a great help. But Luffy did say you can come to us anytime so," Nami than gave you a smile as you blinked, feeling warmth all of a sudden in your chest as you felt the love of blooming tangerines. "Guess we'll see you at Erumalu. I'll tell the others later."

You smiled back, nodding towards them both before leaving after Vivi pointed to you where you could find those fast ducks.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

As you travelled atop the quick fast duck with the moon high in the sky and your gray Alabasta garb flowing, sort of missing your Sandora Lizards, you thought of who else in the marines could be here.

You happened to overhear in the castle that Hina was here, the one constant female presence when you were a kid, her saying embarrassing things and cheating in the card games you, her and Smoker played with the other marine recruits of their year.

You haven't seen her in a bit. You hope she's doing okay.

She's one of the good ones.

You than idly wondered if you could see Smoker again, you didn't mind seeing him. But it felt a little short, it always did.

In fact, sometimes you even looked for him yourself. It was hard without having a vivre card, but it added a sense of adventure as you went this and that trying to find your old friend when he was away from Loguetown. Only just to see him. You smiled slightly.

And Smoker would give you this look of utter annoyance, and a scowl. Always asking you on why you would deliberately look for the enemy. To which you would always reply, "But we're not enemies, we're Nakama!" He would give you this look then, a look that he wanted to say they were, but things have changed. And you would give him a sad smile and say he doesn't  have to agree with you. But you would quickly put on your teasing manner towards him immediately, not wanting him to see how sad you were that they were now sworn enemies.

They would then have a little fight, sometimes with even Tashigi because she just seemed so eager to fight in your eyes. Because of the sword on your back, and to who you were related to. Tashigi making statements that even though your father was a pirate, he was the best blacksmith during his era. And just when it seemed more marines would intervene, you would give Smoker a quick hug and a wave, and would leave. You smiling cheekily as Smoker had this wide-eyed look because of the quick contact which quickly turned soft. But then his scowl seemed to come back on. You would love watching his face do that every time.

It was too funny.

It was like he didn't know how to feel about his old friend that was now a pirate.

You soon arrived at the ship by the Sandora River, sensing a feeling of friendship and acceptance of a twirling swan that made you furrow your brows.

Did they befriend someone else in Alabasta? You thought, not sensing any ill intent at all as you used Geppo to your boat and untying the ropes off of the Going Merry. They must've. Vivi is sure to have met some of her old friends here as she tried to stop the rebels. Glad someone cares for them and is aware enough of what the marines would do if they found the ship...

Once you untied the ship, you sailed towards the direction of Erumalu—being careful as you did so.

Unbeknownst to you, a certain Okama peeked up from the rails of the Going Merry.

"That was close... I wouldn't know what to say to her if she came here and saw me. My, my, Zero-chan, " Bon tutted as he stood with crossed arms. "This is what happens when you don't tell your beloved everything. Total ruin! Despair~! Don't worry though," Bon clenched a hand into a fist, sparkles coming out of him, "I believe in your capability of winning her back!"

You soon arrived in Erumalu, off a few miles from the port and hidden by some rocks till you spotted an explosion from far off. Standing up quickly, senses flaring only to furrow your brows in confusion that the Straw Hats were alright but the swan giving a hearty proud wail.

They must've used themselves as a distraction. What a nice friend...

You spotted the Going Merry, growing closer as you heard the Princess's speech—seeing she won't go with the Straw Hats after all. They couldn't even say back that they'll still be friends, but as you drew closer—you spotted their arms raised with their backs to the Princess and you feel like she knew what they meant without saying anything.

You used Geppo upon the waves to make your boat go faster similar to a speed boat, and used Soryu to land on the rails of the Going Merry. Making Usopp fall in exclaimed surprise and told you not to do that with a gasping stutter, you only laughing as Luffy whooped at you.

"(Y/N)! You're here!"

"I did say she was going to be here, didn't I?" Nami sighed before turning towards you mischievously with her hands together. "Now about that Beli..."

"Hey," Zoro simply stated, pointing at your feet on the rails as he leaned against the mast of the Going Merry. "Isn't your sword famous for being heavy? You're not going to break the ship right?"

"How dare you call (Y/N)-chwan fat?!" Sanji whirled against Zoro, teeth sharp and a kick to his face that Zoro dodged with an irritated scowl.

"When did I say that, Curly Brow?! Why don't you stop imagining things and start cleaning out your ears?!"

"Sanji!" Chopper yelled cutely, his face formed into an angry pout as the two fought with dodges of kicks and swipes using the back of a sword. "Zoro is still recovering from his injuries! Stop doing that!"

"Oh, sorry Chopper." Sanji actually stopped, putting a foot to the ground as he turned his back to the suspicious Zoro. "I should know better than to fight with a cripple."

"What did you say?!"

"YOU IDIOTS ARE GOING TO DAMAGE THE MERRY IF YOU KEEP GOING!" Usopp raged and you could only laugh or smirk at their antics.

Yeah. They'll do great things.

"You guys will be fine," you said, the crew than turning towards you with different expressions of curiosity and attention as you grinned at them. "This'll be the Pirate King's crew in the future. It's only gonna get harder from here but...I have a feeling you guys have the balls to do it."

"Yeah," Luffy replied with a large knowing smile, "We will. And if you don't want to join Shanks' crew, make sure you come to ours instead! I'm gonna be more awesome than him one day!"

Quite a proclamation. Can you really even do that?

You laughed, eyes softening as you jumped off the rail and patting Luffy's head with the Straw Hat with a smile.

"The next time we meet, I'll share more stories about Shanks alright Luffy?"

Luffy gave a wide grin in return, with his unique and contagious laugh.

"Sure! And you can come and party with us anytime (Y/N)! Ace said you're fun to drink with."

You dead panned.

That little—! You cursed in your head. Hoping that the fire man didn't say much about how you partied with him. Your smile softened however, at Luffy's enthusiastic offer. And gave a small nod.

You received food rations from the chivalrous Sanji, you quickly giving a word of thanks with him doing his weird love tornado. You landed on your boat in the water with a wave to the Straw Hats that you'll see them soon—Luffy and Chopper waving the most enthusiastically as Nami got depressed she lost her personal walking bank with Usopp asking what was wrong with the navigator and to get her own money with Zoro agreeing only to get two lunches to the head by an angry Nami, and quickly fled from the marines, keeping your boat hidden as you were gliding through the waves.

After you successfully fled Alabasta and the marines, you sat in the middle of your boat looking at the sky with a frown.

...

Now what do I do? You thought, with a bored frown. Should I just keep sailing this way...?

You didn't do much to begin with, going to different islands as they come. Exploring them, trying to find possible treasures, and eating different and interesting foods. Beating people up you didn't like, not caring if they were pirates or marines. Or something in between. Only if you weren't off visiting others you find interesting or your friends. This time though, you got to meet the famous Luffy that Shanks talked about.

Your face brightened immediately, an unconscious grin coming on your face.

Shanks!

You'll go see Shanks!

You quickly took out the vivre card that was safe within the hidden pocket inside your Marine cap. You checked where it wanted to head, and you immediately fixed your sails towards that direction, your bright smile not leaving your face once.

.

.

.

Edited 04/28/21

Previously was I want to see...!

Added a lot more scenes with the Straw Hats and Pell miraculously surviving( he really should've died, like how did he survive a close radius of a literal bomb meant to take out the whole

Plaza of Aluburna 💀 I like you Pell but Geez)

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

**FANART CORNER BECAUSE I HAVE TOO MUCH AND WANT TO SHARE ALL**

Chapter Text

You stared below your feet at the white salty crystals that showed your reflection, the reflection showing your face despite the salt underneath your feet was just that. Salt.

The clouds were over you, white and grand and fluffy with the sky a pure blue. And the crystals below you reflected that as well—like a mirror. Or an edge really.

The salt being stretched for miles everywhere you looked—all you saw was white and white reflecting the sky's blue and fluffy clouds.

As well as you making faces at the ground, squatting down and leaning your face down towards the flat salty ground below you.

You don't really know why you decided to leave the Red Haired pirates campsite for a bit to travel the land by your lonesome, you love the crew's cheer and loud songs with alcohol always seeming to drip around everywhere somehow. Yasopp's pride as a father about his son and a childhood of the East Blue, brave members of the crew trying to out eat Lucky Roux(you tried once with your favorite dish, you got up to seven before you had to quit before you threw up as a release for the explosion wanting to release from your body. A bite still halfway down your throat and a laughing Shanks having to pat your back strongly for you to finally swallow from surprise due to your nearly spitting at Lucky's victorious face), and Benn being the calmest and practically the babysitter even though he laughs at the others antics. And Shanks...

Well...

You thought of the feeling of the heat of the sun on your cheeks. The ray's washing over you brightly in a way sometimes that can make you squint from the brightness.

Shanks.

Maybe you do know why you separated from them for a bit.

Your face paused in thought, your tongue still out as you stared at yourself with quite an odd expression on your face. Staring at the reflection that stared back, moving to touch the rim of your marine cap and watching as the one below followed the movement as you stared at your pensive (e/c) eyes and your scarred left cheek. Kuroi ten'nosabaki dark metal reflecting with the sun behind your back as if in an echo with Karasu on your hip merely glinting yet silent.

How did you get to know someone like—

"Don't eat the salt," you leaned forward in surprise, your hand somehow making your hat slip off your head as you met a face full of salt. "Oh, too late I see! Dahahaha! What are you doing all the way here by yourself?"

You sat up, spitting out salt from your mouth with your eyes squinted to oblivion as you swiped your face. Shanks getting closer to you with a smile, arm casually leaning against his sword Gryphon on his hip.

"You're making that face you make when you wake up when our favorite primate decides to do his morning jumping on our backs," Shanks teased with a laugh as you flushed, remnants of salt still around your mouth as he moved and stood over you. "Your eyes are practically gone you know. Guess you didn't see the salt, eh?"

He laughed, and you would've laughed with him if you weren't so surprised at his presence. You must've been too in your thoughts to sense him. Also, what he said was embarrassing!

You make ugly faces when you just wake up!

"S-Shanks, be quiet! My eyes aren't that bad when I wake up... a-and you just surprised me! I wasn't thinking of eating the salt!"

Shanks made a doubtful face, playful.

"You sure?"

"...it does taste quite salty."

"For your sake," Shanks answered, eyes serious. "I hope it's only salt you're tasting. And not anything else. It is on the ground you know."

Your eyes widened, blanching as you held your head.

"YOU DONT THINK I ATE PISS DID I?!"

"Who knows."

"Wha—YOURE NEVER GONNA LIVE THIS DOWN!"

Shanks let out a hearty laugh, red hair flowing in the wind as he winked down at you. You slightly flushing at the look.

"Only if you let me! Besides, who knows for sure?" You looked away, grumbling as you sat with crossed legs that you really hope you didn't get an extra ingredient with the salt and feel more of an idiot that earlier you actually wanted to taste it without having to get surprised from his presence. Shanks staring at you all the while with a calm smile, before releasing a quiet sigh through his nose at you and sat next to you. His shoulder bumping against yours as he did so, making you look over at him only for your eyes to widen. Shanks getting a handful of the salt in front of him and stuffing his face with it, his face turning pale at the strong flavor before having to spit it out with his tongue slightly out in disgust as you asked him what the heck that was for. "What? Now we're both idiots."

Your lips parted as your eyes widened, only for your cheeks to join in when Shanks put a hand to your head and ruffled it with a close eyed grin.

"Just say you got me back by tripping me or—HACK!" Shanks choked with tears in his eyes, hand to his throat as you panicked. "It's really salty!"

"You didn't have to do that, Shanks!" You shouted, leaning towards him by moving to kneel beside him and rubbing his black cloaked back encouragingly to help him as you stared in worry. "Ahhh man, you still got salt in the back your throat huh? Which one of us is the real idiot?"

Shanks, after coughing up a few more salt balls, glanced at you with a knowing smile.

"I wonder..." You yelled a stuttered hey, wondering what he meant with your hand still to his back as Shanks only chuckled, the feeling being felt with your hand. Turning towards the landscape that was a mirror in thought. "What has you here all alone? You never said."

You paused, the other hand near your cap on the salty flat twitching before you dropped the hand to the kind red haired captain's back as you sat back down with crossed legs. Grabbing your cap to have it between your legs and touching along the letters of 'Marine' and the rim, what you tend to do when you think.

"Just thinking."

"About?"

"...nothing much really." You answered, your gaze facing to the landscape that had the blue upon the ground and sky with cotton clouds above and below and your form having another now next to you. Less alone. Shanks staring at you from the corner of his eye as you observed the area around you, your lips up but not quite meeting your faraway (e/c). "I was just looking at this place...it really deserves the name of the Salty Shores. It just fits you somehow, I guess. It's a nice territory."

Shanks hummed, leaning his head against his hand as he moved his autumn brown eyes towards the phenomenon that one will have to see to believe.

"They call it the border between Heaven and Earth," Shanks said, you peering at his face beside you, his lips formed into those small quiet smiles he does. "The rain makes it clear like this. As if you're walking amongst the sky and the clouds. The salt mounds around here if you step on it just as you stare down at the reflective clouds can make it seem like you're actually stepping on clouds..."

You moved your gaze to one of the salt mounds several feet away from the two of you, small yet wide and for a moment you wanted to try.

What is it like to step on clouds? The ones closest to the sun?

As you stared at the mound, you didn't see Shanks eyes flit back towards you. Autumn eyes soft as he read your expression with curious wonder, unguarded and free. Like you're meant to look. Not what he saw when he walked towards you.

Although your tongue out was cute.

"If you want," you turned and met Shanks eyes, autumn looking through (e/c) as his pulled up on one side as he held his head, "I can be the bridge for you in between the border. Of anything you can't cross."

You don't know why, but you flushed although your brows furrowed.

"I don't think you can carry me that high Shanks."

Shanks blinked, raising his head from his hand.

"I wasn't—"

"Unless you're planning to throw me...that'd be really fun but I'm pretty heavy and I would have to have one foot on your one hand so you could do it."

"You don't get at all what I was saying—" Shanks whined, shoulders deflating although maybe it's best you didn't understand. "And pointing out the one hand thing was pretty cruel, (Y/N)!"

You tilted your head, frowning in disappointment.

"So...no throwing?"

"You don't have to make that face!" Shanks playfully shouted before standing up and wrapping a hand around your bicep to bring you up with him. His face than turning mischievous, putting an arm around your shoulders as you slightly flushed. "I'm glad to see that you're confident in my abilities to catch you though when I throw you. The landing won't be soft if you don't pay attention. Salt isn't soft at all."

You turned your head towards him, peering up at him as they walked back. Eyes suspiciously cautious.

"You sure you won't need Benn's help? Maybe... a hand?"

Your shoulders felt empty as Shanks squatted down the floor, crocodile tears going down his face.

"So cruel, (Y/N)! Benn and some of the other guys already make fun!"

"H-hey, I'm joking!" You said nervously, not wanting to hurt your saviors feelings. Especially since you know his arm was lost for good reasons. "I don't—"

Shanks turned, tongue sticking out.

"Gotcha~!"

You stared gobsmacked before moving and punching him lightly on the shoulder with a call of his name as he stood and laughed. The both of you walking back side by side, casual conversation and teases and jokes back and forth, the mirror of the Heavens and Earth reflecting the both of you along.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

You didn't have to travel very far, which you were grateful for. Only took a couple of days to locate the red head and his crew. When you were getting closer to the island the Red-Haired Pirates seemed to be inhabiting as of now, you spotted a familiar unique small boat with a sitting figure on it.

You grinned.

"Oi! Mihawk!" The figure turned around and you were met with piercing gold eyes seeing your form, your arms waving frantically back and forth as you looked at him with excitement. He didn't say or do anything but look at you blankly, as you tried to move your boat faster. Using Geppo against the waves, your legs on the ocean to catch up to Mihawk. Once you were next to him you leaned against the side of your boat to look at him.

"Sup Mihawk? How you've been?"

"(Y/N). What are you doing here?" You opened your mouth to answer until he cut you off.

"Don't answer. I already know." You looked at him with a frown.

"Then why did you even ask..." You muttered out as you looked to the side, only to look back at him quizzically. "Wait, how would you know?"

Mihawk stared at you with his piercing gaze, replying, "You always loved to be around the Red-Hair." You blushed at his statement and stuttered "H-he just throws good parties you know? And... I l-like his company." Mihawk said nothing as he continued to gaze at you, you didn't mind it though. You were aware of his tendency to stare at you without saying anything, it weirded you out sometimes though.

"Hey, can we spar?" You looked at him excitedly, you haven't sparred with him in awhile, and you wanted to test your abilities. He gave you a once over, and replied with a "Not now." You pouted, saying they haven't fought in awhile and wondered out loud if he was scared that the student perhaps passed the teacher. He gave you a silencing look, which you let out a nervous chuckle and sweat drop at.

You loved the relationship you had with your teacher Mihawk. Soon after you became a pirate, you came across Mihawk once again in one of your visits to Shanks. He remembered you from the first meeting, and decided to indeed train you. Although it took some coaxing.

You gave them a confident grin and a determined glare.

"Yeah. I'm his daughter. And I'm going to be the strongest woman in the world!"

With how you entered the Warlords meeting with the marines in Holy Marijoa all those years ago, of course the impression would stick. Especially if it was the meeting right before you left the marines. A new dream on your mind, your childhood one already crushed and destroyed to go for.

You trained with him for one year in his lonely and dark mansion. You remembered questioning him always on how he lived here before, without anyone else around. Mihawk  always saying he enjoys the silence. You weren't convinced however. You'd always make sure to at least get him out of his mansion to do something, which was always sparring and training if you managed to convince him away from his books and wine. You didn't mind it, the sweat. The blood. The gasps of breath in trying to keep up with his training. Made you feel. It made you stronger.

And the strongest woman in the world has to be strong after all.

But when they were inside the castle, instead of wanting to rest like any other normal person would. You wanted to do something with the serious swordsman. Whether it was trying and failing to make a cake for him, or just talking with him while he read his books. He'd claim that you were loud sometimes, and he'd give you these looks that immediately made you stop at whatever you were trying to do despite your normal fiery nature. You giving a nervous laugh as you gave him a sheepish smile, scratching the back of your head or your freshly scarred cheek.

As time passed though, it seemed his looks were less sharper as he looked at you. Him seeming to get used to your presence and company, or maybe that was just the hopeful side of you talking. But you couldn't help but see that he talked more now, instead of just three sentences with each conversation they had, it increased. Allowing you to get closer to his side of the table as the months passed. Not only that, but he wasn't just an amazing master, but a nice host. You even heard him play his guitar, a skill you wished you had. He'd make the most beautiful music with it, that you always had to close your eyes with a small appreciative smile as you listened. And when he'd stop, you always wished for him to keep going, but only let out a pleased sigh off of your lips as you opened your eyes again. Only to have Mihawk's golden eyes staring at you with a look you couldn't place.

He always did that too...but he's not the first man with eyes you couldn't quite read.

And the first time he called your name instead of your title, was when you were having a nightmare one night. Months passed since you first arrived. And you couldn't help but give him a bright smile and pointed it out after you recovered successfully from it.

"You called my name." You remembered saying when you sat atop your bed and he brought you tea he brewed. Gold eyes staring at you as he handed you the steaming cup carefully. "You called my name," you repeated, "Instead of calling me Silver Blood." You looked at him softly, eyes tired yet still feeling happy that the distant man finally called you by your name after months of living with him.

He said nothing as he sat in the chair by your bed, merely stirring his tea with a spoon before he tapped the back of your hand holding your cup and letting it stay there before saying a soft "I did." Giving a small nod with a ghost of a smile before pulling back. You recalling that when you drank the tea and laid back down, you feeling soft touches to your cheeks before the click of a door closed to your room.

By the time that he said that you had to train by yourself, you were hesitant in leaving. You didn't like the thought of him being alone in his big and empty mansion, the only soul living in it being him. Unless you counted the Humandrills in the rest of the island but that shouldn't count...You thought to yourself that perhaps you can just stay with him in his mansion, but, you wanted to get stronger on your own.

You wanted to explore the rest of the world with your newfound freedom. Leashed too long.

So when your small boat was ready, your makeshift mast in the middle of your small boat, they stood in front of each other. Mihawk saying that he would like to see you progress the next time they meet. You frowned at his formality of his sentence, not liking it one bit.

"I'll visit." You said, Mihawk raised an eyebrow.

You smiled at his questioning expression.

"I'll visit anytime I'm close Mihawk. It's lonely in this big mansion of yours, and I'd hate for my master to suffer that feeling."

Mihawk raised his brows in surprise at your statement, you only smiling brightly at him.

"Also, let's spar the next time we see each other. Maybe you can teach me more on how to properly do that chicken and rice too, I feel like it's almost perfect and much better than my first time! And I'd love to hear that guitar of yours the next time I come here , you play it beautifully Mihawk." He said nothing but stare at you with incredulous eyes, eventually letting out an of course with a hint of amusement in his voice.

Your smile softened.

"And Mihawk?"

"Yes?" You hugged the Warlord, squeezing him tightly as he staggered back in surprise at the foreign contact. You expressed your thanks as you held him, your cheek against his bare chest with your arms around his waist. That he was a wonderful teacher and host, and you cannot wait to show him when your dream comes true. He eventually returned your hug, his arms gently around your waist with his head on top of your shoulder. When you pulled back, he let his arms fall to his sides. And when you were finally about to leave, he grabbed your hand, you looking back at him in surprise. He kneeled with your hand still in his, as he took off his hat and put it against his chest. The action was so charming that you couldn't help but blush, feeling flustered and embarrassed at such an action. Which only increased when he kissed the back of your hand, his piercing but beautiful eyes looking into yours. He whispered out words you couldn't hear, but you heard him say his own goodbye. Also giving you a piece of his vivre card to the hand he kissed. When he stood up, he was met with a red faced (Y/N), and you were sure he saw his lips twitch into a ghost of a smile. You couldn't tell if it was proud or amused, maybe both? And he kept it until you were already in your boat, a distance away. You waved at him and yelled you would see him later.

And you did. You made visits whenever you could to his island, staying only a few days before the call of the sea and adventure wanted you back. Or rather, the call to keep getting stronger and stronger—despite of some of your master's warnings that you should watch yourself on who you fight and mess with. Mostly due to that one time... well, more than one time you think. But nonetheless, you enjoyed the time they spent with each other. And how Mihawk's lips sometimes twitched in amusement, wanting to smile, but could not when you did or said something stupid. You after all tried your best to make the swordsman laugh or smile.

Cause everyone should smile when living in this world, you thought each time.

When your conversation went to Shanks though, he would have this look in his golden eyes that you couldn't interpret as you spoke vividly of your savior on what you did with him the last time you saw him. You thought it was because on how you were speaking about his old rival of swordsmanship that he lost because of Shanks losing his arm.

Either way, you loved the Worlds Greatest Swordsman's company.

Despite how stoic he always seemed to look. You learned that's just his face.

Once the both of you landed on the island, you docked your boats and began to walk towards where the Red-Haired Pirates were. You walked with your arms crossed behind your head, an already excited smile on your face. Mihawk silently looked at you and your expression, you not noticing a thing as you stared straight ahead as they walked side by side. Your eyes then brightened in remembrance as you said that you met the Strawhats.

"Oh?"

You smiled at him and confirmed it, saying that they'll become something. And Zoro was intense, wanting to fight you the moment he laid eyes on you. Even discussing the scar on his chest that he received from the worlds greatest swordsman. Mihawk turned his head towards you and asked did you? You telling him of course not, perhaps when he gets stronger. "But don't worry Master, he's your rival not mine. I won't steal him away." He suddenly tugged you towards him, you feeling his hard chest as he brought his lips to your ear. "I told you to stop calling me that." You looked up at him and gave a sheepish smile as you scratched your nose, giving a small apology as you tried to pull away but failed. You looked back up at him with a small frown, but then froze.

His gold eyes held you in, his face just a few centimeters away from your own. You felt your cheeks heat up at the closeness, as his piercing gaze looked at you.

" If that Red-Hair won't do anything, I will." He whispered, his breath fanning your face as he brought you closer to his lips

.

.

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Edited 04/30/21

I felt a little too vague with how SB and Shanks relationship is. Same with Mihawk and SB.

I wanted it vague but MAN! I really made it vague for you guys. XD Sorry about that. I like mystery. And there still is plenty of it!

Anyways! Hope you liked it! 💗

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AHHHHHHHHH~~~!! You're awfully close there to Reader-San Mihawk~! ^_^

And the past between you and Mihawk is revealed. Kinda. Didn't show the first meeting however. So you guys might still be lost.

Good.

This arc will be a short one and then we'll move on to the next canon arc and place.

Recommended soundtrack above for this story. I also recommend the Sad Soundtrack for One Piece.

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**FANART CORNER BECAUSE I HAVE TOO MUCH AND WANT TO SHARE ALL**

Chapter Text

"Hey! Mihawk! (Y/N)! What are you doing?"

A familiar voice yelled out to the two of you,  you yelped and jumped in surprise, which caused both you and the swordsman to fall on the ground. You being between the swordsman's legs as he laid flat on the ground looking up at the sky with what it seemed to be a glare.

"That Red-Hair has horrible timing." He muttered, but (Y/N) didn't hear him as you sat up from the swordsman's body, him following afterwords as they heard Shanks obnoxious laugh. You flushed in embarrassment, as well as being in the presence of the kind red-headed man that saved you so long ago. A hand came in front of your face, which was connected to Mihawk. You slowly took it, ignoring at what just happened between them. And immediately felt an arm around your shoulder, you flushed as you saw Shanks happy face next to you.

"Sh-Shanks! How you've been?"

The smiling man laughed, his cheeks red and you suspected he might be drunk. He replied heartily that he was alright.

"Dahaha! I'm alright! What about you, (Y/N)? What have you been up to since the last time we saw each other?"

You grinned up at him.

"I saw Luffy."

Shanks widened his eyes and his bright smile grew wider, him saying you'll talk when they join the party again. You glanced back at the silent Mihawk and said for him to join, Shanks sliding his eyes towards him as well with a small smile.

Mihawk glanced at them.

"I shouldn't have come in the first place." He said, and began to turn away until he felt a hand within his own. Your hand.

"Come on Mihawk, it's more fun with you around."

You tugged him lightly as he stared at you with those eyes of his, Shanks arm—now empty— at his side as he watched with patient eyes. And then replacing it with a big grin, having his arm around Mihawk's shoulder now to turn him towards the party.

"Come on, you should listen to (Y/N), Mihawk!" Shanks prodded the swordsman. "Besides, what are you gonna do? Go back all the way to your creepy castle when you're already here? Sounds like a waste to me!"

"Yeah," you agreed, tugging him again just as Shanks did it as well. "You're here already so let's have some fun with everybody. It'll be different without you."

In the end, he went with the two. Despite giving the two idiots a glare.

"Mfghe! Egfhhy ish (Y/ffjk)!" Lucky greeted happily with a wave as he sat by a makeshift table of crates with food in front of him as the three of you drew closer, your head turning towards the large Red Hair pirate with a smile. "Hosgjd artgh yougfh? Hopefht nofgth ingh anfee chroublh leefgh lafgh phimfe. Mfghj ighj angfgh kmghp ifland."

"She can't understand a thing you're saying, Lucky." Said Rockstar, one of the newest members of the Red Hair pirates as he made a face at his superior ranking pirate's food fly everywhere only for the large man have a technique with his tongue to even catch the crumbs. To not waste it of course! "I can't understand anything that you said either."

"Hey Lucky!" You answered, letting go of Mihawk's hand and drawing closer to everyone's cheering and tips of mugs against each other either to you to welcome you back with grins or simply continuing their drinking games. Mihawk pushing Shanks hand off him only for the man to laugh and draw him closer and say he should greet everyone too while Mihawk replied he doesn't need the Red Hair to be around him to do that. You stood on the opposite end of the crate by Lucky and Rockstar and the other members, hand to your hip. "I'm doing pretty good and see you're winning in a food competition by yourself again! And I don't get into trouble, how many times do I gotta say that? That island just surprised me. Really!"

"She understood?!" Rockstar exclaimed, eyes wide.

Benn turned from his spot by a shaded tree a few feet behind, smoke curling from his cigarette as he released a calm amused smile as he held his rifle.

"(Y/N) has a talent with understanding Lucky. We understand him too but sometimes his words get garbled up due to how he chews the same time he talks," Benn explained, giving you a nod as you waved at him before grinning proudly at his words. Rockstar unable to believe anyone could possibly understand Lucky when he gets gluttonous like this and also staring at you and his captain and the Warlord in interest. "You should need more eyes on you, (Y/N). Sometimes you're worse than our captain when we don't have time to babysit him."

You waved your hand dismissively at them.

"Oh please! Shanks ain't that bad. And I'm fine! I'm here aren't I?!"

"Suspicious," teased Yasopp, who walked towards them with a smirk and placed his hands on his hips before leaning forward with a brow arched. "Who's the one who can't even keep track of her own bounty due to her antics?"

"I know my bounty!" You defended as everyone laughed heartily at your face, a combat boot being stomped as if to prove it to them only making them laugh harder. Mihawk not helping at all by saying they may have a point with Shanks pointing at you childishly that made you flush in embarrassment when he said you didn't even know the number you initially had when you became a pirate. "I know it!"

"When was the last time it was raised?" Mihawk questioned as he stood with crossed arms, Shanks grubby hand now off him thankfully as Shanks waved obnoxiously at a crew member with the primate to roll him a barrel and some extra mugs.

You blinked, your hand to your chin as you thought.

"Well...that was...aha!" You snapped your fingers, eyes bright. "That time when I was with Ace and the others and these annoying pirates were in this nice island with huge mushrooms. Or it was these guys that acted like asses and maybe weren't pirates. I don't really remember—but it rose after that!"

Outside of Mihawk, everyone burst out into laughter after a moment of silence. Mihawk only sighing in what you read as disappointment as you exclaimed what. Lucky nearly choking on his food as he laughed, tears in his eyes before swallowing lest he died.

"That was last year, (Y/N)!" The large man pointed out.

"Not only that," Yasopp said as you scowled in embarrassment as Yasopp pointed at you as the rest of crew added their own chortles and comments in the background. You think Shanks was going to fall over if it wasn't for Mihawk's shoulder there and ready to be used, despite the swordsman moving away from him, Shanks managed to grab him again making the swordsman slightly annoyed. Calming when drinks were handed to him and Shanks as the red haired stood up. "You were a marine! Isn't knowing bounties your job?"

"It was my job. Do you know how annoying it is to memorize every new pirates face and bounty price?!" You defended yourself, pushing Yasopp's hand away as he snickered. "I got punished each time I wasn't able to recite the new ones! Sometimes I got a pop quiz about old ones and would get smacked in the head each time I got it wrong."

"That may explain it," Benn said as you turned towards him with a brow arched in confusion as he calmly smiled. "Perhaps your brain suffered from sort of amnesia due to the hits."

"Not only that I think, (Y/N)," You heard Shanks close to you and felt a knuckle tap lightly against your temple below your cap, your eyes turning towards him as you grew more and more embarrassed at their teasing. "That may explain your hard head. You can kill someone with that if you're not careful. Dahahahaha! You should really fix that memory though, you think it's possible you can smack yourself into having a better one?"

"Now that you say that—"

"No."

Mihawk cut you off as Shanks and the others laughed. You huffing at everyone you weren't actually going to do that. Besides, your head is too hard to change now. The primate of the ship deciding to comfort you as you stuck your tongue out at everybody that you don't remember much you did this year anyways as the primate pulled your cheek at the same time with an animalistic laugh.

"You did have a quiet year," Mihawk assented, ignoring Shanks when he pushed the swordsman to drink another mug as they now stood by you—his arms crossed as he held his mug as Shanks muttered he's being boring and needs a good drinking buddy. "Decided to take a break didn't you? One can only do so much."

"Dahahaha! That's true, (Y/N)!" Shanks said, putting his arm around your shoulder as you flushed slightly at the contact as he grinned. Giving up on Mihawk although Mihawk's eyes strayed to the red haired man's arm on your shoulder. "Your first two years when you left were the craziest though! Your bounty kept jumping left and right!"

You let the primate get off of your shoulder when Shanks put his arm around you as he held his mug, giving him a nice scratch of his neck with saying he's a good buddy before it left back to his main owner of the crew that you also greeted. You than turning towards the Red Hair with a small frown that only made you look like you were pouting.

"I—I don't think it was that bad." At everyone's disbelieving smiles and stares along with Shanks' chuckle and Mihawk's probing gaze. "Okay look! A lot was happening okay! People getting in the way or being jerks and assholes! They're annoying and needed a lesson. Or two. Or five."

You looked down at your hand as if to count, trying to think and look back. Some annoying guys faces just blur together sometimes.

"Your navigation skills at sea is also at fault," Mihawk pointed out quite unhelpfully. You're better at that now! He should know! Mihawk growing closer to your other side till he was next to you, you now in between the Red Hair and the Warlord and his shoulder brushing yours while being mindful of Shanks's arm casually on yours. "Ended horrible for them, since you happened to land there by fate or luck for you. Not the same can be said about those who met your ire."

You scoffed, bumping his shoulder in a playful manner as Shanks watched with a close lipped smile and Mihawk's eyes closed at the contact. Kuroi ten'nosabaki and Yoru seeming to gleam in greeting with the touch of their owners upon their backs, Karasu on your hip glinting instead.

"They deserved it!" You than turned when others greeted you and the trio of you walked with Shanks getting a refill and Mihawk eventually doing the same. You having to defend yourself with the crews teasing with a scowl you really don't feel and a smile pulling on your lips. "You guys joke too much!"

"Dahahahaha! I think it's just enough, (Y/N)!"

When you finished greeting the rest of the crew, the trio went to sit to the side by a tree in the shades. Drinks all in hand(you being the only one drinking water) you began to tell him how Luffy was, and his Nakama with your hat off your head to cool off as it laid on your lap as you sat with crossed legs. You also yelling to Yasopp about his son, who raised a glass from where he sat several feet away with a proud cheer before you turned back towards Shanks and Mihawk. Mihawk adding some of his two cents based on what he saw in Baratie which you already heard, about Zoro's potential and Luffy's captain skill. Throughout the whole thing, Shanks had this proud smile on his face. Like a father would.

A father so proud of his son as he listened to you talk about Luffy. Never wanting to interrupt as he listened intently, his eyes on you. Mihawk, however, had questions.

"Where did you meet them?"

"Just off the coast of the desert country of Alabasta, they wanted to help their Nakama with—" you cut yourself off with a frown, your eyes darkened. The Emperor and Warlord immediately noticed, both their gazes turning serious and mildly concerned as they asked on what happened. You gave a heavy sigh with closed eyes, rubbing the back of your head.

"There's possibly going to be a new Warlord, one of them has been revoked as a result of what happened in Alabasta."

At their silence, you continued.

"It was Crocodile," both their eyes narrowed but you continued, "he was abusing his power of being a Warlord." You sighed. "I did warn the cocky bastard. He didn't take it." They glanced at each other

"Did he do anything?" Shanks asked, both of them aware on how Crocodile seems to treat you.

"He didn't do anything. Surprisingly," you replied shrugging, "Just saying to stay away from the other idiots, whatever that meant."

Mihawk's eyebrow twitched slightly while Shanks just burst into laughter. Your eyes then brightened and you said you saw Ace there as well. Shanks smiling at her and saying "Oh?" while Mihawk questioned if he said on why he was separated from his crew.  You furrowed your brows slightly as you thought of why your friend was looking for this guy.

The guy that killed a fellow crew member.

"He said he was looking for someone. It was a crew member that broke a rule on Whitebeard's ship—killing another." Shanks seemed to straighten, eyes turning serious as Mihawk waited patiently. You looked down at your mug of water in thought, wondering about how Ace must've felt. Is feeling by doing this and remembering the few times you saw Thatch.  He shouldn't do this alone...but you understand. Your hands still clenched around your mug though. "It was a man called Blackbeard. He's looking for Blackbeard. Sounds like a stupid name if you ask me. Very unoriginal." All of a sudden, Shanks eyes darkened, his expression turning back to serious.

"Did he say on why he was looking for him

(Y/N)?" Shanks questioned, you noting that this was a serious matter. "Besides the obvious." You shook your head no, now that you're thinking about it. Did that guy who killed Thatch just kill him for no reason? You should've pushed harder with Ace but you don't think he wanted to keep thinking about that.

His fire already looked so tired.

"Just said he's been going island and island to find him." You answered, able to hear your own voice once the Red Haired pirates partying quieted down. Your eyes narrowed. You glanced around, finding that the party suddenly got quiet as all the crew members were looking over at them. All merry and joy off their faces as they stared. Mihawk glanced at Shanks, his eyes having a hidden meaning as they both shared a look as clouds covered the sun and the sword of night darkened. "Errr...am I missing something? What's up with you guys?"

"Where are you going after this (Y/N)?" You blinked at Shanks question, growing concerned as well as worry. You replied that you were thinking of going to Water 7 after this, wanting to visit the city of water. You feel like it's time to go back again after all this time but you kept that to yourself. Shanks gave you a tight smile as he put a hand on your head, making you immediately blush at the contact. Your worry and concerns seeming to disappear.

"I have something to do, so let me escort you to your boat." Shanks stated looking down at you as he slightly ruffled your hair. "We'll hang out more next time, okay?"

"A-alright." You stuttered as he returned his arm to his side, and began walking. You hesitantly beginning to walk behind him when you put your cap on your head again, your thoughts all over the place as your eyebrows were furrowed.

A scar burns.

Clearly, something was wrong with Shanks. And you were positive it had to do with Blackbeard. Mihawk seemed to know as well, you glanced behind you and saw the standing swordsman, you motioned your hand to signal for him to come. He began walking towards you wordlessly and walked beside you as he glanced at you.

"Is something on your mind?"

You looked up at him and questioned if he knew about why Shanks was upset. He was silent for a moment until he said:

"It's the Red-Hair's job to tell you what troubles him, not me. Ask him if you wish."

Your brows furrowed more, a frown on your face at his answer. You asked him what he'll do now afterwords, him replying he'll just go back to his castle to relax a little.

You opened your mouth to say you'll drop him off, before he quickly cut you off and said that he'll probably leave quickly out to the sea again. You shut your mouth and nodded, your eyes showing mild concern towards him as you thought about the lonely swordsman. Before you bumped your shoulder against his arm again, having a golden orb stare down at your quirked lips.

"Remember I can come whenever. Maybe after I leave I'll surprise you again! And spar too?" You bumped again, closer now and Yoru and Kuroi ten'nosabaki metals met, the sword of night and your sword of black with the sheen of silver gleaming happily. "Look! Even our swords want to!"

Mihawk stared at your smiling face for a moment more before his plume hat shadowed his eyes. But he did not move away from your touch.

"You always do what you wish. As long as you make sure you follow my vivre card to be positive I'm at the island. A repeat of you alone in the castle might prove disastrous."

"Tch," you slightly flushed, looking away. "I just forgot okay. And I didn't do anything too bad! You didn't look like you really minded anyways..." you muttered the last part, not aware that Mihawk heard you as he glanced at you, picturing your dirtied face that had a sheepish yet bright grin with a surprise for him behind you as you said welcome home before turning his gaze back forward to meet the Yonko's back, wondering what the Red Hair is thinking.

The trio arrived to your boat, and you faced the Yonko and Shichibukai to give your thanks in escorting. But when your gaze went towards Shanks to ask him the question you wanted to know earlier, you felt a warmness on your forehead. Your face immediately turned to scarlet red as you saw Shanks in front of you with a small smile.

That smile.

"What do you mean there is no such thing for people?"

He smiled at you, a smile that seemed to be so soft and yet so wise. A smile that you've never seen before with your eyes. A smile you wished to see more of, you secretly wished.

"There is no such thing as good and bad people. Everyone is equally good and bad, but," his smile softened,"the side that you choose to act on more defines who you are."

"Take care of yourself (Y/N). We'll see you soon."

Your thoughts were a blur as you felt your face still on fire, and your voice gone. Not being able to speak as you stared at the handsome Red-Hair. Mihawk's eyes narrowed slightly at the scene before him. And immediately when Shanks took two steps back, Mihawk grabbed your hand with his and kneeled with one knee. Your eyes immediately widened and went towards Mihawk, as you looked at the familiar pose. He always did this when he said goodbye towards you, and you haven't become used to it.

It was too–too-

Too charming.

Your blush darkened to the color of a cherry when the World's Greatest Swordsman placed his lips gently on your hand, his eyes half-lidded as he looked up at you. Those gold eyes of his seeming to bore into your soul.

You think you're going to die.

Possibly of heat stroke.

You didn't notice when Mihawk's gaze took a glance at the Red-Hair, who was staring at the scene with a blank smile. When he noticed his ex-rivals eyes on him however, his eyes turned to one of amusement. Mihawk glanced away from him and stood up to face the dark red-faced (Y/N).

"It's best to leave now Silver Blood."

At your blank eyes and red face, Shanks then let out an obnoxious laugh. Seeming to bring you out of your daze as you nodded dumbly to them both and began to prepare your boat, being in a machine like mode. When your sail was ready you glanced up at them again, seeing a smiling Shanks and serious Mihawk at the shore. Shanks gave a little wave and Mihawk a slight tilt of the head.

You smiled and waved at them.

It was only until you were already a few miles away did you realize what exactly the Red-Hair did. Completely distracted you and succeeding.

"DANG IT SHANKS! Why do you have to be so—" you blushed at the mere thought and feeling of his soft lips on your forehead. And only doubled when you thought of Mihawk's gentlemanly kiss to your hand.

"MASTER!!! YOU'RE AT FAULT TOO!! ACK!"

You think you might go insane from all the men around you.

If you haven't already.

-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-

Back in the camp of the Red Haired pirates, Rockstar turned towards the senior officers of the crew in question.

"Are they always like that?"

Benn blinked, a box in his hands as they prepped to leave due to what was said despite their captain not saying the exact orders yet before huffing through his nose.

"Those three? Or the captain and (Y/N)? Either way, it can get pretty entertaining to watch. I'm sure you've noticed it."

Rockstar than felt an arm around his shoulder, Yasopp holding a sharp grin.

"Why? Interested in getting into the betting pool?"

Rockstar's brow rose.

"Betting pool?"

"You can't expect us to not have bets around on who will finally open our sweet (Y/N)'s eyes and have her by their side first!" Yasopp exclaimed in disbelief and a slight laugh as he shook the new members shoulder as Rockstar could only make a face of surprise. "No offense to our captain, but we're pretty split on who's going to get her. Shanks is acting pretty slow for my taste although I did have faith before so don't look at me like that!"

"But...isn't it obvious about Silver Blood's interest?" Rockstar questioned, noticing your face when his captain got close as well as the last time they saw you he thinks. It took him now to notice it though. "The captain is pretty great with the ladies too, it's obvious!"

Lucky decided to speak up before Yasopp can explain, several boxes on his shoulder too as he at a piece of meat

"Yasopp's defense is how (Y/N) can be more casual with Hawkeyes and her touches. And the captain treats (Y/N) different compared to others that he gets for the night." Lucky stated before taking a big bite of his meat as Yasopp jostled Rockstar and raised his opposite hand up.

"It's not just that! I mean, come on! Those two were alone in an island by themselves for a year. A year! Hawkeyes acts different when (Y/N)'s around, I know you saw it too Benn. It was a full turn around compared to before."

Rockstar wasn't there of whatever they saw so he was confused. Still. There's no way his captain would lose, Shanks is too amazing in everything. Mostly at drinking...but other stuff too!

"You're not pulling me to your side, Yasopp." Benn replied.

"So you think it's gonna be Shanks, right?" Lucky asked between a chew. "Shanks treating (Y/N) different compared to everybody else shows just how lost he is!"

"Exactly!" Yasopp pointed at Lucky suddenly, letting go of Rockstar and shaking his head. "Our captain is lost! Something is up with him which will only make Hawkeyes grab (Y/N) away for good in his vampire castle."

Rockstar blanched.

"Creepy." He said as Benn shook his head with a smile.

"Sorry, not going to get pulled into you guys' shenanigans. It's not that clear at all."

"What?" Yasopp put a hand to his hip as he smirked over at Benn. "You think it isn't still?"

Benn puffed and smoke curled as he calmly smiled through a cigarette, spotting his captain and Hawkeyes coming back.

"If you think it is, you're not paying attention. It's quite foggy still. I wonder..."

"Oi," Lucky and Yasopp swiped their arms forward and down as they stated blankly, "Don't act mysterious."

Rockstar sure has an interesting crew.

He still thinks his captain is the best though.

.

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Edited 05/ 08/21

Added more stuff with Mihawk slightly and the crew. Felt like showing off your relationship more with everyone was needed. They know you pretty well after all~

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Chapter Text

It took a week and a few days to finally arrive at the beautiful Water 7 island. It took you awhile to remember the route to go on, for you haven't been here in years. Not since you were a marine. Or rather...not quite a marine. You really risked coming here straight after that happened.

You sighed at the thought.

It's pretty dangerous of you to come here in general, for the island was connected to Enies Lobby from the water train. But you just felt like you should visit here for some odd reason unbeknownst to you. You just follow your gut and it hasn't steered you wrong yet, despite everything. The city was beautiful anyways, with its friendly citizens that called to you and complimented you as you walked past the villas or small cafes through the sidewalks available in the water city after you docked your raft by the rocky shores of the island.

Who knows though? Perhaps you can find a worthy opponent in this island, even though it wasn't likely. You find more opponents in the New World. Dangerous although they may be, Shanks and Mihawk tried to warn you to watch yourself during those seas since you travel alone and your talent of getting sucked into precarious situations. You think you're fine though, you're still here after all!

And if you nearly drowned from getting basically pulverized, than you won't mention it! It was a stupid sort of match anyways...

But seriously, all of those crazy people are strong, and all you want to challenge. To become the strongest woman in the world, you have to beat the strongest after all. Unfortunately, you're still far away from your goal. Even with your years of training with your signature buster sword. You touched the hilt of Black Heaven's Judgement in silence, your thoughts slowly coming to a standstill as you thought of your father. You always wondered to yourself if he was still alive. And where he was. From what you've gathered, he's definitely alive—at least you think so.

You wanted to meet him.

The father you never had. The one who you were always compared to by your mother. How you looked, how you act, it was all like your father.  At least from what your mother told you, with a small fond smile on her kind face as she spoke about her lover and your father. Back in simpler times within your quaint house in the outskirts of Loguetown, hidden by the foliage of trees and when you could call it home.

You felt your heart clench, and began to hum the song your mother sang to you when you were young and she was still alive. You walking around the bustling streets of the colorful island. An island who welcomed pirates and the like, not caring much about it as they tried to capture your attention with their Mizu Mizu style food.

You loved this song.

It was called Bink's Sake. You didn't get the chance to sing it with Shanks and the others at the party like they always do this time. The song was filled with sounds of adventure, and it sounded so uplifting and amazing to you each time. You always remembered your kind mother when she sang or hummed it.

An unconscious small smile appeared on your face at the thought.

You suddenly stopped walking as you glanced around you, noticing you were a bit lost. You scratched your scarred cheek in thought, only to feel a "Coo!" over your head. Your eyes narrowed.

That sound...

You glanced up to find a white pigeon land on your shoulder, familiar beady eyes looking at you in thought as it tilted its feathered head.

Wait...

A challenge!

You blanched.

When a hand suddenly came on your other shoulder, you immediately jumped away you already taking out the eager hissing Karasu in the air with narrowed eyes as you separated yourself from the person who grabbed you. Not caring about how the bird fluttered its wings and cooed and went back to his master's shoulders. Or the gasps of the citizens around you as they saw your weapon out. Only having your eyes on a familiar...comrade.

Of course he would feel like this, you thought in a mix of exasperation and maybe even amusement as you stared at the stoic man with the top hat and the cooing pigeon that lifted a wing as he stared back unabashedly. I shouldn't be surprised but whoa...it's been awhile.

"What are you doing here?" You said, your eyes narrowed and a surprisingly small smirk on your face.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

A teenaged (Y/N) walked confidently throughout the marine ship in her new uniform, which was a black suit with pants. You not wanting to wear such a tight skirt, but you still had your Marine cap proudly on your head as you walked.

You were heading to where the meeting room was to meet your new superiors. Though, you knew that your respect would only go to two marines out of everyone in the force. But perhaps they will surprise you.

You rubbed your cap gently, thinking about who you left behind.

'We'll see each other again.' You thought as you continued to walk beside your young companion.

The teenaged boy that was walking next to you kept his silence, not opening his mouth once since he had to pick you up from your room. His dark eyes only gazing straight ahead to their destination. The white pigeon on his shoulder being the only thing that's actually kept looking at you with its black beady eyes. They've been like that ever since they arrived to pick you up from Garp's ship.

You swallowed nervously, slightly creeped out.

He kinda had a dead fish look about him.

Once the both of you arrived to the door, the boy knocked twice before a voice behind the door told them to come in. Once the both of you entered and stood in front of your purple-haired superior, you gave a salute.

"Silver Blood (Y/N), welcome to CP9."

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Lucci looked at you with his dark eyes, not saying anything as Hattori answered for him.

"Sorry to scare you miss, you just seemed a bit lost and we wanted to help you."

Your brows rose in question and surprise for you haven't heard him use that voice for Hattori in a long time either, your sword still ready to attack. You tried to hold back a laugh. You couldn't stop the small snort and amused smile from your lips though, Lucci's eyes narrowing in answer to what you read as hilarious. I mean come on! His voice gets a little high when he does that with Hattori, and it's been awhile since you heard that!

You think Karasu finds it funny too. It's basically glinting and gleaming in excitement being out for Lucci in preparation. Like old times.

You think your katana sword is a little bloodthirsty sometimes...although maybe that's why it seems eager for Lucci.

Blood lust.

Your mouth sort of twisted at that. Geez. This guy hasn't changed at all.

The crowd around you began to chatter.

"Woah! How dare she take out her sword on our shipwright?!"

"He only wanted to help, but she's being unappreciative of it!"

"Oi! Pirate, I suggest you put your sword away unless you want our shipwrights to handle you!"

You took a small glance at the crowd, as you began to understand the situation.

He's on a job.

You put your cap down slightly with your other hand, silently putting your Karasu back to its scabbard who seemed to whine as it was now sheathed. When you fixed your cap back up, you sheepishly scratched the back of your head with a grin.

"Sorry! I thought you were someone else. You look kinda like him, but," you smirked, might as well have some fun and he probably hasn't gotten a well deserved insult in awhile, "he's more of a cat person."

You spotted his mouth twitch slightly and you laughed out loud in victory, the crowd seeming to calm when the dangerous situation disappeared. Only muttering to themselves about crazy pirates as they walked.

"Ah, I apologize scaring you nonetheless. Do you want me to show you the city? We wouldn't want you to get lost."

You hummed in thought. You knew what he wanted to do, and you didn't really mind it. But to make sure, you nonchalantly walked towards him and circled around him, looking at him up and down in thought with a small smirk in place. While Lucci and Hattori stood there silently, unmoving as they just followed you with their eyes.

'"Oi! Stop checking out our shipwright!" A random citizen yelled out to you.

"I'm not checking him out you idiot!" You immediately retorted back as you let out a slight tsk with a mild flush. You went back towards his front and hummed, satisfied from what you gathered about his strength. You looked up at him, smirk still in place as you stared at his familiar emotionless profile. He really hasn't changed at all...despite the hair. All the hair is new. Better than that neck length hair that made him look emo you think.

"Alright, let's go."

They walked around the city, Hattori doing the talking while you just nodded absentmindedly, your eyes being tempted to look at Lucci as they walked with your hands behind your head. Showing nonchalance.

He got stronger, you noted. And you were half tempted to fight him, his energy just seeming to spike each time you drew closer when he pointed at something in Water 7. You're not sure if he's trained in Haki at all though, CP9 is specifically more for assassination and stealth than outright battle so the unit doesn't need to be trained in Haki at all. You're not sure it'll be fair but maybe a little spar wouldn't hurt...But, it wouldn't be good. The city seems to value and respect him. And did they call him a shipwright? What kind of job is he on? Your eyes narrowed in thought as you took a side glance at him.

"So you're a shipwright here?" He glanced down at you with his eyes, and you already got your answer before Hattori replied for him with their cover.

He's on an assassin job. Your eyes narrowed at him, but you gave a nod and turned your gaze back in front of you, eyes hidden from your Marine cap. Not seeing that Lucci's dark eyes never left your face. What kind of person he's going to assassinate?

You glanced around as they walked, seeing only cheerful faces around them, with many of them greeting Lucci with admiration and respect.

He's got them so fooled, you thought darkly.

Like everything, there are rules to assassination. But there are three main ones.

Always remain distant. Never get attached.  Don't get too close for the target you were sent to kill.

They are closely related to each other, the only difference being the wording. But there is a change between the rules. Slight but it's there.

And you had a strong hate for them.

You bit your lip, putting memories of tears going down nameless faces filled with betrayal and shock away.

"Oi." You whispered at him, your face still hidden by your cap. When you felt his eyes on you, you continued.

"We need to talk." You whispered again, making sure passerby's don't hear. And you finally heard his voice reply.

"Alright." You couldn't help but let out a little smile, you looking up at him with your cap slightly hiding your face still. "What do you know? The kitty speaks. Besides from a beak anyways." At his controlled growl you let out a small but loud laugh, surprising some citizens as they went by. Hattori then spoke that they've arrived at the first place he wanted to show you. A bar. When you went in, you did a deadpan. There was Blueno serving people drinks in the bar, specifically Blueno's bar. And he has a smile on his face.

Bleh.

You rarely worked with the other CP9 members outside of Lucci, if at all. Whether you liked it or not, they were the best and formidable team out there. Their teamwork was flawless, controlled. Always knowing what the other is possibly planning with a glance. You'd never call it that they trusted each other to that degree, just that they knew what to do immediately and what the other was capable of but, you know it was what true comrades do.

Comrade.

You looked up at Lucci unblushingly, just staring. Trying to find something. Lucci glanced down at you as well, with Hattori doing the talking for him with their cover. You said nothing but stare at him, particularly his eyes, while he just stared back. Like you both did back then.

Sweating from punching fists.

You broke the contact first, scratching your head as you let out a sigh.

"Is the bar not up to your standards miss?" Hattori questioned. You glanced at the bar with a bored gaze, stopping at Blueno for a millisecond before continuing to look at your surroundings.

"Nah. It just kinda stinks of here of something."

A citizen heard you, swiveling towards you with anger within their chair as they held their mug of beer.

"Hey, take that back! I don't smell anything wrong in here!"

You just raised an eyebrow, a knowing glint in your eyes as you scratched your nose. "Really? It must be my keen nose then, I always smell the bad stuff that no one else does." Blueno looked up, a (fake) warm smile on his face as he looked at you.

"Perhaps you're just unlucky then." The bull horned shaped hair man commented.

Your eyes slightly narrowed.

"Maybe I am."

You thanked Blueno for his offer of a drink but declined, already walking away from the bar with Lucci approaching from behind.

"You're being a nuisance." He whispered by your ear.

You smirked at him in return.

"I always am when you're concerned."

You being too busy looking slightly behind at Lucci, you walked straight into a hard and slightly wet wall. With a slight 'ouch' and rubbing your nose you looked up at what you walked into, only for you to widen your eyes in surprise.

In front of you was a fully grown Kaku, having all the muscles in the right places. And just...well, taller. Different from the last time you saw him, he was younger, only in his teens. And he was slimmer, but now...

"Oh! Hello miss, sorry I didn't see you there." He gave you a shining smile with his eyes closed, the cap on his head that read 'Galley' following his head movements. You felt your jaw a little slack at what you were seeing. "Long day at work today, you see. Oh, hey Lucci!"

A proud hammer pounds against wood.

He was just so different. You knew it was a cover, for the Kaku you knew was distant and only had childish arguments with Jabra. But... That smile suited him a lot.

"Ka-?!" You coughed loudly in order to correct yourself, you can practically feel Lucci's glare on you. "I-It's alright. I wasn't looking at where I was going. But why are you wet?"

"Oh, that would be my sweat." The square nosed man replied cheekily, you letting out a noise of slight disgust as you looked at yourself.

"Ugh. Maybe that's why I'm sticky..."

The young man laughed as he explained he was taking a walk for his break, and wanted to cool off from making ships. You raised an eyebrow and asked if he was one of the famous shipwrights of the city as well, Hattori replying for him that there were five of them in total. And saying that you are lucky for meeting two of them in your first day.

You letting out a dry chuckle and "Yeah...lucky." You saw Kaku crack a slight grin at that, with Lucci only letting out a slight sadistic smile at your statement. Your brows twitched.

So far, there are three CP9 members here. Two of them being 'trustworthy' shipwrights, and another playing the 'friendly' bar owner. There couldn't possibly be more could there?

If there were four or more, then this mission was an important and perhaps difficult one compared to the ones with just two members. It actually might be more than a simple assassination—it might just be focused more on information retrieval. It would explain Blueno being placed in the bar. An assassination does not need these many CP9 members...maybe they're not here to kill anyone than.

Either way, it might not be good. For whoever they're getting the information from. Or you.

But you'll deal with that when the time comes. Like you always do.

With Kaku now in tow, you followed them to where the Galley-La company was, glancing around as you went. Seeing all the friendly faces and hardworking men as they went about their work and carrying supplies this way and that with ships all around, making you smile. This city was wonderful. But you were suddenly stopped by a somewhat high pitched and flustered voice.

"Oi! Woman, cover that skin! You're being indecent!" A question mark appeared over your head as you glanced around only to find a blushing blond heaving out breaths of air, a cigar in his mouth. You pointed at yourself.

"You're talking to me?"

"Yes I'm talking to you, you scandalous woman!"

Your brows only furrowed more, as you looked down at yourself. You would say you were very covered up. Having a white button down dress shirt, with a black tank top underneath and some weighted bindings. And you having black pants that seemed to be cut into makeshift shorts only two inches below your knee, black weighted boots completing the outfit.

The heck was this guy on about?

"Uhhhh...you're clearly barking at the wrong tree here. I see nothing wrong with what I'm wearing."

He pointed quite viciously to your lower regions and yelled that that was the problem. During this, you heard Kaku laugh and Hattori comment about 'Paulie's money problems'. Which caused the man deemed Paulie to yell at him. Before a fight indued between the two, you talked again.

"Did you point at my legs? What, woman calfs turn you on or something?"

The man, Paulie, blushed immediately.

"No! I-it's indecent to show such skin with men around!"

You looked at him, and then began laughing obnoxiously, you having to bend down and hold your knees in order to not fall down to the floor.

"W-what?!" The blond man stuttered, with you only laughing more in response. Unbeknownst to you, you had two wide and curious eyes staring at you.

"You—you're a funny guy! I like you! " you said at him with a smirk, and it only made the man blush more into a tomato red. Making you laugh once again as Paulie yelled at Kaku and Lucci.

"Why is this woman even here?!"

"We found her a bit lost, and wanted to show her around a bit." Hattori chirped on Lucci's shoulder while Kaku nodded.

"Yeah. And it's her first day here and all so..." Kaku left the sentence with a smile.

Paulie nodded and scratched his head in thought, smoke coming out of his cigar between his teeth as he glanced towards the woman. Only to see you right in front of him with a smirk, which he quickly fell back to the ground in surprise. You standing over him with laughs shaking your body.

"You're not used to being close to girls are you?" You asked, looking down at him. His blush and stutter of denial proved your answer, as you lend out a hand towards him. Which he hesitantly took, you quickly heaving him off the ground. He was mildly impressed by your strength, you giving out a proud yup and:

"I'm going to be the strongest woman in the world after all. Of course I have to be strong." You said with a hand on your Marine cap, as you looked up at the man called Paulie. Who released a small blush at your look and felt twisted embarrassment. You smirked and held out your hand.

"I'm (Y/N). Nice to meet you."

He took your hand within his own and surprisingly had a strong and firm grip, something you noted.

"Paulie, one of the five foremen. And you're the famous 'Ex-Marine Silver Blood (Y/N)' aren't you?" He asked, releasing your hand and you nodding at his question. He moved his cigar around and you wondered in the back of your mind on how cigars are so popular, and why do you know so many men who smoke them?

"I've always wondered this, but why did you leave the marines?" Paulie asked with curiosity.

You shrugged.

"They were too demanding."  You replied shortly as you quickly walked ahead of the now three foremen, looking around at the massive ships being made. They toured you around the place some more, with you occasionally talking to Kaku or Paulie, and Hattori giving some input. And then, surprisingly, the mayor came out.

"Iceberg-San! Aren't you supposed to be doing work?" Paulie asked Iceburg, who just waved him off.

"Paperwork is too boring with such a beautiful day like this." He replied. A woman walked to his side, adjusting her glasses as they flashed quickly in the sunlight

"I tried to stop him but he managed to get away from me," she answered to Paulie, clipboard to her chest as you felt the love of lamb. "We really are behind, Iceburg-san."

(Y/N)'s eyes narrowed.

Kalifa.

You disliked that woman.

"Oi! Paulie! You called out on my clothes but you work with a lady wearing that?"

Kalifa rose an eyebrow.

"Hm? Don't I look pretty?" The light blonde innocently asked, adjusting her already perfect glasses.

"It has nothing to with that!"

Both you and Paulie yelled at her, causing you and him to look at each other, you bursted out laughing at how they were in sync. Back when you were a part of them, you never liked on how Kalifa seemed to show off her body. Like a lot. And was vain and arrogant on how she looked. You didn't like that at all, although...you thought of your young teen self looking at her in attention as she sat with a drink in front of her with faraway thoughtful lavender colored eyes, speaking of the assassination industry and woman. You internally shook your head away from the memory. Besides that, the woman was still pretty annoying and weird.

Same thing with another woman, the so called Pirate Empress Boa Hancock. Your eyebrow twitches at the mere memory of her. Paulie blushed and rubbed the back of his head to hide it. Now adding to the mix, there were three CP9 agents looking at the laughing (Y/N) with curious and wide eyes.

"Well then," Iceburg began with a polite smile, "what's a famous pirate like you doing in Water 7?"

"Just felt like it." You said with a laugh. "But I might have to leave soon and set off for another course."

"Well, since you're here we could take a look at your ship if you need any repairs." Iceberg offered as you nodded in gratitude before jabbing a thumb towards Paulie with a smile as said man blinked.

"Can this guy do it?"

"Huh?" Paulie questioned, scratching the back of his head. "Why me? Kaku can reach and assess quicker than I can."

"He may have a point, (Y/N)-san." Kaku pointed out with a sheepish laugh under his Galley La cap. He's still talking all polite and like an old guy, you noted. "You must have docked in Rocky Cape, right? That's where normally all pirates dock their ships so trouble doesn't find them by the Blue Station. I can take note of what you may need and we can talk prices after I come back."

"Coo~ Coo~, the people in Water 7 do not call him the Mountain Wind for nothing!" Hattori spoke, or rather Lucci did as you glanced at the pigeon in question who's wing was out as he spoke. "It's really no trouble at all, Miss (Y/N). This idiot Paulie is pretty greedy when it comes to money so we don't want you having less Beli than before cause of him."

Did this cat bastard just call me 'Miss'? You couldn't help but make a slight face at that, not really knowing how to feel with that. And greedy huh?

"W-what?! Why you—! Don't talk about my problems, Lucci!" Paulie raged, you watching in interest as the blond man lifted the sleeves of his jacket as if to fight and drew near to Lucci who had his stoic face unchanged despite Paulie's yells and scowl. "Like I would steal from a customer to help with that!"

"Kalifa," Iceburg turned towards the woman who gave a ready yes as she needlessly fixed her already perfect glasses. "How many times has Paulie stolen from others to help with his debt?"

Paulie suddenly turned, nervous sweat gathering as Kalifa flicked through her clipboard.

"Well, if we let him go to Silver Blood's boat and 'assess', this will turn into the fourteenth time to have money for his horrendous gambling addiction."

"WHO ASKED YOU FOR YOUR OPINION, WOMAN?!" Paulie raged, an embarrassed flush on his cheeks and cigar tight between his jaw. "And it's not an addiction if I win!"

You outwardly laughed as Kaku pointed out that Paulie tends to lose a lot though with Paulie telling him to shut his face before turning back towards Kalifa and pointing at her showing legs that she needs to leave and change anyways before an accident happens with one of the Galley La men.

"Hmph," Kalifa adjusted her glasses, face serious. "That sounds like sexual harassment."

"W-what? I wasn't threatening you, Kalifa!"

"Despite all this," You said, recovered from your laughter but still amused at this light atmosphere that feels different compared to before. It's truly been awhile. "Sounds like you like gambling. I'm sort of the same but you got issues, Paulie." Paulie flushed at that as Iceburg said see while picking his nose with his pinky that made you make a small face of amused disgust as Kalifa reprimanded the mayor. "But I don't care. You're fine. I'm not in a rush either so I don't care who's quicker. I'm confident in your skills anyways, Paulie. You're a Galley La foreman right?"

You smiled at him and Paulie blushed at your words. Behind you and to the side as you faced Paulie and told him the specific directions of where you are in the Rocky Cape, Lucci's eyes were still on you as he stood with crossed arms as Hattori stared at your head in one might read as longing before turning his sharp gaze to the area around them before zeroing in on the galleon ship that was almost done above them amongst the high rafters. Kaku and Kalifa sharing a quick small glance before looking back at you with eyes one may read as pity and exasperation as Paulie eventually left with a flustered scowl as you waved at him while yelling at him that he can do it as he shouts back over his shoulder he doesn't need a woman like you to tell him that.

You're not escaping that easily, both secret CP9 agents thought with a mild sweatdrop. You're in big trouble, (Y/N)/(Y/N)-san.

You internally smirked in victory when Paulie left.

Like hell you were going to let Kaku or Lucci look at your ship, it's like basically saying 'Please destroy my only way out of here!' Besides, you saw them and that's all you need anyways!

But your luck had other ideas, the narrator pointed out. Or perhaps it was more fate due to your old partner being here.

A little after you said that however, a piece of a galleon was slipping off and like the good person you were, you caught it by using Geppo to above and using your arms before it fell to the ground. When you were about to put it back however, you felt multiple drops of white liquid land on your shoulders, you immediately recognizing it as bird poop, you moved around in a panic and dropped the part of the ship in your frenzy. Causing the rest of the almost complete ship to fall and be destroyed. As you were reprimanded by Iceburg with your dirtied long sleeved now tied around your waist and leaving you with your black tank top and said that you would have to pay off your debt on having of destroying the ship, you only thought three things darkly.

Stupid bird.

Stupid Lucci.

Stupid CP9.

It's been way too long, (Y/N)-san, Kaku thought while scratching his long square nose as you took the reprimand and how long you're going to have to stay here until it's fixed once more by Iceburg. Lucci, his hands now in his pockets, saying through Hattori that you should be more careful as he called you miss. Kaku taking note you made a face at that and saying sharply you were careful and to not worry about someone like you. Looks like it's going to be different from old times, however. But maybe...it'll be just more of the same.

Kalifa didn't really share the same thoughts as Kaku. More of an accepted exasperation as she fixed her glasses and you seeming to be offended by how polite Lucci is acting with you due to the persona he has to stick to based on your uncomfortable expression. Frankly, she doesn't think the both of you together again is going to be fun for anyone.

By the time Paulie came back, he was met with you having a hammer in your hands as Kaku pointed to you helpfully on what to do—you being introduced to the other Galley La men already as you listened with a frown but attentive eyes on the young man that felt free like the wind through a ship's sails as he explained the different parts. Lucci on the other side of the Dock working on the other part of the now completely broken galleon.

Paulie turned towards Iceburg and Kalifa who were speaking about all the meetings he missed.

"What just happened? Why is a customer working in the Docks? And what happened to the galleon?!"

"Oh, we have a new worker for a few weeks. She broke the galleon." Iceburg casually said as Paulie shouted what.

"She can't work like that! O-Oi woman!" Paulie yelled towards you. You turned towards him just as Kaku was in mid explanation. "You're working all around men now! Change your clothes right now! That—That shirt of yours is barely covering anything, put your blouse back on!"

"Eh? What do you want me to do? Strip?"

"W-what?!" Paulie shouted, red and goggles going askew on his head at how he jumped. "Crazy woman! Why would I say that?!"

"I wasn't going to change here anyways, weird prude!" You stuck your tongue out playfully at him as Kaku laughed slightly. "My clothes are fine besides the shit that got on me. And go attack Kalifa instead of me before I throw my shitty long sleeve at you!"

Kalifa fixed her glasses as she stood to the side.

"That would be sexual harassment."

"THAT HAS NOTHING TO DO WITH THE OTHER!" You and Paulie yelled in sync to the bespectacled woman.

"I don't think he meant it like that, (Y/N)-san..."

"He needs to be more straight with it than!" You complained, turning back towards your work and squinting at it. "Oh. I must've hit the hammer when I wasn't looking. The nail looks bent."

"We have to start over than." Kaku explained with a mild sweatdrop as he looked down at your work. "Ah, you splintered the wood below too. Try to be more gentle when you hammer, (Y/N)-san."

"That sounds like a few more extra days of work, Silver Blood (Y/N)." Iceburg commented as he stared down at an interesting patch of grass below. Why is he still here again? He's the mayor right? "Our wood of the Galley La is pretty valuable."

"I'm going to be stuck here!" You cried, tears in your eyes. You are only good at certain things and take a long time learning other stuff! It took forever for you to cook a decent meal and know North from south when you're out in sea. "Urgh! Just explain it to me again, Kaku. And sorry Iceburg—HEY!" You dodged a kick from Kalifa only for her to kick at Iceburg's cheek instead. "What the—you kicked the mayor!"

"Don't say his name so casually! Add a '-san' to his name or call him Mister Iceburg. You need to learn respect!"

"Wha—who just kicked him?!"

"Kalifa...nng," Iceburg said through a grunt, his face almost matching the color of his hair. "She gets pretty passionate for my sake—ouch!"

"Damn it, Kalifa!" Paulie cursed around his cigar. "You did it again!"

You noticed the other foremen seemed to have flush on their faces or heart eyes as they said to themselves that they wish she kicked them in the face and is beautiful when angry.

"You just managed to dodge me," Kalifa calmly stated with a flash of her glasses before turning towards the other foremen. "And that sounds like sexual harassment."

"I think I'm the one being harassed..." you muttered in a deadpan before you turned back towards Kaku who had a patient smile and felt like his energy was soaring when he explained all this ship stuff to you as you focused on what he was saying and observing how happy he looked as he spoke.

As you focused on your work in front of you with Kaku's guidance, Lucci who was on the other side of the Dock, drew closer to Paulie who was scowling in thought after he spoke to Iceburg about your high finance. Lucci's eyes stared at a heavy pocket of Paulie's jeans that wasn't there before only to chop the blond man's head. Paulie's eyes popping out in surprise, holding his head and whipping towards the silent stoic man with Hattori on his shoulder—both of their eyes seeming to be narrowed.

"What was that for?! You wanna fight?!"

"Empty out your pockets, Paulie." Hattori spoke through Lucci as the man had his hand straight out once more at the ready to hit again. "You think I wouldn't notice how shameless you can go? Miss (Y/N) shouldn't have trusted you with assessing the boat."

"I—I didn't—I don't know what you're talking about! Now I gotta head to help with that galleon with Lulu—" Lucci stopped him from moving by grabbing the back of the blond man's jean collar jacket. "Let go! That's it! Rope Action!" Lucci moved from the man's ropes with uncaring eyes as the foreman around them stared exasperated as the two started to fight with ropes going everywhere from Paulie and Hattori moving to fly overhead.

You staring with a brow arched, scratching the back of your head. You know Lucci is going easy on Paulie, can't blow whatever cover they need after all. But the way he's fighting Lucci looks familiar but you can't place it...

Kaku, spotting your bewildered yet thoughtful expression, secretly smiled behind his cap and high collar of his jacket that he placed over himself again.

"Don't worry. They always do that." Kaku said as you hummed in answer before saying you're not worried about that, you kinda feel like deja vu. "Does it seem like something you've seen before? Cause I think I know what you mean."

"Mmmm...I don't know." You paused in thought, hammer in hand as you leaned against your chin and saw Paulie curse at the stoic Lucci when he dodged his rope again. Hattori cooing overhead as he circled around and around as you muttered quietly to Kaku so no one can overhear. "...is it Hattori? It might be Hattori..."

Kaku sweatdropped as you stared at Paulie successfully capturing the apathetic man with a victorious smile and slammed Lucci down only for the hidden CP9's hand to the floor and causing cracks with his fingers in order to stop it, having Paulie scowl as Lucci's dark gaze met the blond's calmly.

She has no self-awareness at all, Kaku thought, Lucci successfully getting Paulie to give you back your money and making the man bow as you stood and stared in confusion at the money and commented that Paulie must be really desperate and have a serious problem but you didn't seem really mad at the amount he took as the man flushed and looked away with cigar right on his lips as he scratched the back of his head.

It's not like he took everything and you never really cared much about money in order to get really angry. You've learned that there's much more important things than money.

Like food!

As long as you can eat, you're fine.

Lucci hit the back of Paulie's turned away head before putting his hands in his pockets as Paulie whipped his head around.

"What?! Stop hitting me!"

"Coo! You should give Miss (Y/N) a proper apology no matter what she says. She's too soft on you."

"You—" you began before shutting your mouth, raising your brow and squinting your eyes at Lucci who turned his penetrating gaze towards you. This is too weird. He's on a cover but..."Don't call me Miss, please. And it just ain't a big deal. He does need some help though...you must be really bad at betting."

"Just being respectful, Miss (Y/N). You are pretty infamous since your debut, Coo~. Not many have done such feats like you have."

He's mocking me! You thought with a slight tick on your temple.

You're really playing with fire, Lucci. Kaku thought as he stared as your hands slightly clenched and Karasu seemed to sing in eagerness. But (Y/N) seems to be trying to get offended from your words.

I'm going to need a drink, Kalifa thought to herself as she looked at her clipboard and flipped through it but can sense the tension between the two of you rise like old times. You seem more open compared to before with us but your relationship with Lucci hasn't changed at all.

"Just... just don't call me Miss." you managed to reply with a huff and you nearly scowled at him when you managed to spot dark orbs flash with amusement. You hid your hands in your pockets yourself and tapped the tip of your combat boot to the floor as you turned away. "And I just did what I had to. People are stupid. I just wanna be the strongest woman in the world. It's whatever though, they're good practice." You shrugged before turning towards Paulie. "You really need help though."

"I'm not bad if I win!" Paulie defended himself as you smirked at him and laughing that he must lose a lot and not follow his gut at all. "My gut never fails when money is involved. Ask my loan sharks."

You sweatdropped as you had a disbelieving smile.

"That may be the issue."

"I—I don't need a crazy woman tell me that!"

"I think you're the crazy one for being bad at bets."

"(Y/N)-san, let's focus back onto our work. Paulie does not listen to any of us when it comes to this."

A smack to the head was heard as a blond head staggered forward with goggles.

"Wh-what the hell?! You really wanna fight!"

"You're distracting Miss (Y/N) from her work.  You're just loitering around now, Paulie."

"Urk...I said not to call me Miss!"

"Ha! You guys talking about me not listening, this pigeon guy has his own issues on not listening!"

"It's too much of a nice day for all of you to be arguing."

The foremen around including Paulie turned to see Iceburg lounging under the shade of the office building with a lounge chair out of nowhere and a drink in hand with Kalifa nonchalantly swinging a small fan as she stared at her clipboard with wide eyes.

"YOURE STILL HERE!" They all shouted in disbelief.

You couldn't help but snort at the scene, now back to Kaku's side and hammer back in hand.

"You're a pretty bad mayor," you commented as Iceburg took a loud sip from the straw of his drink. "Don't people like you have work?"

"I do. But I can do that later. Right, Kalifa?" He asked his secretary who dropped the fan and was mainly focusing on her clipboard now. "Ahhh...can you keep fanning me? It's hot."

"Your office is much cooler, Iceburg-san." Kalifa answered gracefully and now having a pen in hand. "When do you want to reschedule your work? And having me fan you is sexual harassment."

"We'll fan you instead, Kalifa~!" Some of the foremen said around them, seeming to pause with tools or logs in hand or arms.

"All of you are insolent!" Paulie shouted at them angrily.

Iceburg didn't seem to care and picked up the fan himself and starting using it on his face as he thought.

"What time is it now?"

"It's about to be two o'clock," Kalifa answered with a quick peek of her watch.

"Ah," Iceburg said as he fanned himself before taking a sip of his drink. "Than I'll finish my work at 1200."

"Thats...tomorrow, Iceburg-san."

"Perfect!" Iceburg put a thumbs up in answer.

"It's going to be really lively for the next few days I feel." Kaku commented with a casual smile as you laughed at Kalifa's exasperated face due to the mayor of Water 7, hammer in hand and him having to stop you from hammering the board again from your loss of control as the foremen complained they deserve a drink too with Iceburg being stubborn in sharing—the young man's hand on yours. "Careful (Y/N)-san. Try to keep from using this when you are laughing like that, okay?"

"Awww, okay," you answered, recovered from your laughter and relaxed due to how Kaku seemed patient with you. And just how he feels in general. He really...loves being a shipwright. You than turned towards Lucci who still stood nearby after Paulie moved to yelling at the foremen to watch their eyes, cocking a brow at the agent. "Don't you got work too?"

Lucci's eyes met yours, Hattori doing a coo as he puffed his feathery chest out.

"Don't worry about me, Miss (Y/N)." You bristled. "I'm not like the mayor when it comes to my work."

That totally has a double meaning but you don't care!

"I said to stop with the Miss...! It's weird!"

Lucci tilted his head a tad as your eyes narrowed at him as Hattori spoke through him in his high voice.

"How so? Used to another epithet?"

Urgh! He's going to drive you crazy!

"Come on you two," Kaku said calmly with a nervous smile as you tried to keep your scowl back at Lucci who's eyes gleamed in amusement. "We all have to work together so let's get along. It's only for a short while."

You huffed, turning your back towards Lucci and focusing on your work as you hammered away. You can't really treat Lucci like you usually do anyways so you really do have to relax like Kaku said. They're all respected here and you don't really want to be involved in whatever they're trying to accomplish. Although you really want to just treat and talk to them like back than...well, not quite back than.

You glanced at Kaku.

You want to get to know more of this Kaku.

And...You turned back to your work with your face shadowed from your cap. It's been awhile.

"Sorry, Kaku. I guess I still smell something bad around here and I'm in a bad mood cause of it."

"What are you smelling this time, (Y/N)-san?" Kaku decided to humor you with an interested smile as you felt Lucci's gaze on your tank top covered back.

You smirked.

"Wet fur. You guys don't keep a wet cat around here right? They really stink up the place and earn the name of pussycat instead."

If you suddenly felt the surge of energy of a cry for blood, you ignored it and your smirk just grew. Just as it grew when you side glanced at Kaku when he said you have an interesting nose with Lucci adding with a slightly colder tone that you need to be more careful with your dirty words.

Ha! That's what you get.

.

.

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Edited 05/20/21

Combined the Old Friend...?, Dark Justice Returned, and Old Partners and New Acquaintances a tad. While of course adding all the extra details!

With Galley La and the others!

I feel like since the old partners haven't seen each other in so long, I need to lengthen their moments together after all the years away. Also, there needs to be extra moments with the two side pairings here~ ^/////^ So expect a lot more moments in this arc! This is just the beginning!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

FANART CORNER!!

For those who drew NSFW art... 👀 I sadly can't show it!!! ;A;

Wattpad doesn't allow it even if the book is mature, which Strong is not but my Strong AU's book is. I strongly recommend if you're that curious to see, to join the Strong Discord Server!

discord.gg/UgxsNwr

HOPE YOU GUYS ENJOYED THE CHAPTER!!! >//////<

Chapter Text

It's been a few days since you've been stuck here, doing and rebuilding the galleon you broke due to Hattori dropping multiple deuces on you. Since deuce means two and he dropped more than two, what do you call it than? Would it instead be trois?

You don't really know.

But the people of Water 7 are pretty funny, outside the ones you already know and aren't really from here.

Tilestone, the large bearded foreman, seems really eager for a strength competition with you when he noticed how easily you can carry multiple logs on your shoulder when transporting it for the galleon. He's pretty loud too, which you can understand somewhat since you're not exactly quiet yourself, but his voice seems to boom each time he speaks. He also looks angry all the time, but you think that's just his face. You know plenty of others that look like they're scowling or calm all the time—they should get that checked out you think sometimes but one can't change their face.

Lulu, with glasses on his face and a problem with his hair, you would want to help out. His hair keeps sticking out no matter how many times he fixes it. You think you cutting it would help but he seemed nervous when you offered with Karasu out and near his head that his hair just does that. When you pointed out with brows furrowed that he looks like a unicorn right now with Paulie snorting in the background at that, Lulu merely fixed it only for the spike to end up to the back of his head. You burst out laughing as you pointed that it looks like a mullet now with Lulu merely saying blankly with crossed arms that he wears his bad hair with pride and so you just left him alone after that.

Of course you had Paulie soon yelling at you again about your clothes, your blouse now cleaned, and decided to mess with him by throwing it at him leaving you in your tank top only for him to get more red and smoke come out his ears as he waved his arms and stomped his feet at you. Only for his face to somehow look funnier when you put a hand casually on his shoulder or around him!

He's too funny!

He's a pretty nice guy too, despite his noisy complaints that you just brushed off and decided to tease him instead. After your first day and moving onto the next, he got concerned about which motel you're staying at since some aren't worth the money and can be in pretty bad parts of Water 7. Only to grow even more concerned when you said you slept at your boat.

"What are you? You can't sleep on that boat like that. I don't know how you sleep on it out in sea but a real bed is better," Paulie explained between his cigar, his brows furrowed as he stared down at you. "You have to be in top form if you're going to be helping us around here."

You didn't want to risk the slightest chance of your boat getting destroyed by the CP9 people here, but you explained you heard of the demolition workers here. Paulie shaking his head at you and explaining that you shouldn't sleep out like that, as well as saying your boat won't satisfy them in parts anyways. Kaku adding with a smile that no one would mess with you here either way, you reading through his words that you're already stuck here and their mission is more important than capturing you at the moment.

After only another three days of you sleeping at your boat, Paulie and Kaku pointing out to you which motels are better constantly with Lucci as well during a break while you were alone and walking, the raven head nodding at the one near Blueno's Bar with clear meaning in his eyes—did you finally decide that staying at a motel would be fine. You also had a weird wake up call once on your boat, weird tools around you as you scratched your head in confusion.

You ended up with the one near Blueno's Bar. You know they can't do anything to you, but they may be concerned about your whereabouts or what you may say when it comes to their mission. You still don't really care though. They're just doing information retrieval it seems, so no harm done.  You don't think they know that though, which eh. You don't care.

It was quite funny when Paulie was getting so concerned about you sleeping in your boat though, you just jokingly said if he's so concerned that you could just stay with him. He burnt right through his cigar until there was nothing but ash as he stuttered that you shouldn't say things like that to men you barely know, you too busy laughing at his red face to take note of how Lucci's eyes immediately cut to you when you said those words. Kaku huffing through his nose near the raven head man and muttering lowly that inviting (Y/N) to their apartment would be a better idea if we really think she's going to do something. Lucci's eyes on you before moving towards Kaku, and using Hattori to tell him hush before moving back to their work.

The lunch breaks they've taken at Blueno's Bar was interesting, all the different people at once with the loud Tilestone eager for another drink by slamming his mug down and yelling another as the other foremen tried to quiet him down. Lulu elegantly drinking his beer silently only to cause some mayhem by somehow making hair...get out from people's nose?! That was weird when you first saw it, wondering how that worked, with Paulie explaining by you on the table they were sitting on that Lulu's spike on his hair has mysterious powers.

Iceburg and Kalifa would join at times too, him taking an 'extended lunch' he says as Kaku would shake his head good naturedly at the mayor's antics and Paulie freaking out from one of Kalifa's outfits of the day.

Honestly, you think the most surprising thing though is what Lucci drank while on break at the bar.

You remember staring wide eyed and incredulously as Lucci drank a mug of beer that Blueno gave him next to you once at the bar countertop. Lucci noticing your gaze and a brow raising slightly, Hattori than speaking that if you wanted to try as dark eyes glinted. You mildly scowling at him from below your hat and turning away with a huff, merely saying that he just doesn't seem the type to drink beer. Lucci's eyes focusing on you, mug near his mouth as he seemed to analyze the side of your face that was away from him before putting it down. Hattori doing a Coo before saying he has other tastes but this will do for now.

His tone turned odd when he said other tastes, it sounded weird really since he was doing his high voice through Hattori. But, for a moment, his normal voice almost came through.

Of course, the other surprising events was what you observed from Kaku as he worked with you. How the young man felt as he spoke excitedly to you about all the tools and the ships he's built as you would stare with a small smile on your face only to grow when you felt his excitement increase.

You like this Kaku.

You wanted to be close to this Kaku more then the other one. You wanted to observe those smiles, grins, and laughs he would do. And each time he did so, you wondered in the back of your mind if he was just a very good actor or...this truly was what you saw all those years ago.

The true Kaku.

You were aware of masks. Very aware.

Too aware really.

You wore one during CP9, and perhaps you're  still wearing one now. You've had a mask so long you don't know which one is really you.

It's a sad feeling.

Not knowing who you are.

The day you decided enough was enough, Kalifa's stare seeming to penetrate along with Blueno's questioning stare along with Kaku's odd smiles and Hattori seeming to fly overhead near you, you managed to corner Lucci who was on break with Kaku from fixing ships.

"Hey, Lucci, wanna have that lunch you promised me?" You asked, wanting to talk to him alone like you asked several days prior when you arrived. "And let's try somewhere else besides at the bar instead."

The top hatted man gave a small nod in reply without the need of Hattori as Kaku rose his gaze from his water bottle with an excited grin.

"Oh, I want to join!" You glanced at him, your face shadowed by your cap as you gave the young man a specific pointed look.

"Ah. I just remembered that my break is over. Perhaps another time?" Kaku backed off, waving it off with a smile as you gave a small smile and a nod.

The both of you began to walk side by side, you leading silently. Immediately when you saw the next alley as they walked, you quickly pulled him in to the darkest part, and stared at his eyes.

"What are you doing here?"

"Wouldn't you want to know, pirate scum."

You said nothing at his statement, and only glanced at the Hattori that was now on your shoulder. You sighed, and muttered out that you're stuck here because of him. Hattori only replying with a proud 'Coo!' and flutter of the wings, and you gritted with your teeth and whispered harshly "You're so annoying." When Hattori pecked your cheek, a tick mark appeared on your head as you whispered obscenities to it which Hattori only replied with coos. During all this, Lucci did nothing but look down at you with his eyes at the interaction of his 'best friend' and ex-partner. When Hattori finally relented and rubbed his pigeon head against your cheek, you let out a smile at the familiar feather like touch and gently petted the bird with the apathetic master.

"I know what kind of job you guys are doing," you began as you continued to pet Hattori who was responding well with your touches, Lucci narrowed his eyes,"So many agents in one place means that this mission is quite important for the World Government. This isn't a simple assassination. Ya'll need something." You turned your gaze from the pigeon to Lucci, your brows furrowed.

"I don't know what exactly you guys need in terms of information, but I know it must be pretty important to send all of you guys. And specifically all of you and where you guys are. It would've ended bad if Fukuro or Kumadori were sent here." Honestly, you couldn't imagine it. It would've ended in chaos and fire if the loud zipper mouth and slow talking haiku poet joined too. "All centered around the Galley La too...Iceburg really placed himself as someone real important and having good information if you guys need it that bad." You concluded, your hand finally leaving Hattori's head who chirped slightly in protest. You sighed slightly, going back to pet his chest as the pigeon chirped happily with closed eyes.

Lucci only smirked as he looked down at you.

"It seems being a pirate didn't make you lose your intelligence like I thought." He snidely commented.

You continued with a straight face, something that slightly annoyed the best CP9 agent. Those insults used to work before you recalled. You dropped your hand only for Hattori to quickly grab it with his beak to have you keep going as you let the bird be as your finger was trapped.

"I don't like what you guys are trying to pull. Forcing me to stay here in hopes of capturing me when your mission is finished isn't going to work." You observed with narrowed eyes. "Although...you guys don't really seem to be trying that. You should know, Lucci-Neko, that we're not tied in strength anymore."

But Lucci said something that caught you off guard.

"You could've left. I overheard Paulie talking to Iceburg that you had enough money to pay them back, but instead, you chose to stay. You also chose to entertain us and keep silent. Why?"

You stopped petting Hattori and looked up at him, and then smiled.

"Like you would possibly understand, Lucci-neko." His mouth twitched slightly and he asked what wouldn't he understand. You smiled more softly at him, something that caught him off guard, and then you said:

"I just wanted to spend some time with my comrade. That's all."

Lucci scoffed.

"I've changed my mind. You're still naive. And I would never become such a thing with pirates."

"Too late." You replied with a mild grin. But it quickly disappeared.

"Because of this, however, you're the only one I will allow from CP9 to capture me. Do you understand? I won't let anyone else but you capture me, if you manage to catch me and defeat me of course." You ended confidently.

Lucci only smirked.

"I did not forget. I got your message of that other Cipher Pol weakling you sent in a barrel soon after you left," Lucci commented, his top hat shadowing his eyes as he stared down at you. "The others are aware that you're mine." The assassin said possessively, something you didn't quite catch.

You nodded at him approvingly, and then looked him up and down his frame. Analyzing in your head.

"We're not tied anymore but...You've gotten stronger since the last time I saw you." You commented with a smirk.

Lucci only replied with an "Of course." You then said that the most who has changed was Kaku however, last time you saw him he was still a teen.

"He's really changed. Having all the muscles in the right places, I was surprised when I saw him."

Lucci didn't seem to like how the conversation was going however, as his face darkened.

"You shouldn't be so impressed." Lucci growled out. You blinked and looked up at him, tilting your head as you tried to figure out Lucci's thoughts. He was always sort of hard to understand sometimes.

It was then your Haki sensed incoming people.

"Shit!" You cursed out loud and at Lucci's raise of the eyebrows you quickly explained to him people were coming. You then quickly pushed him against the wall, causing Hattori to ruffle his feathers in surprise before moving to fly overhead.

Lucci lowly growled and asked what you were doing when you suddenly asked how popular he was with the women. Lucci paused.

"What?"

You asked again.

"How popular are you here with woman? Answer quickly."

"...I'm sure even you can gather that the city highly respects the shipwrights of the Galley La." Lucci answered carefully, seeming to try to scrutinize your words. How does he not get it?! "I don't see your questions important  enough to why you have me against the wall like this, scum."

"How often are you seen with women? Surely you must've slept with a few here." You said unabashedly. No hint of care in your voice.

At his growled out answer that weakness isn't something he chases after, you leaned up against him and took your cap off, obscuring their faces as you got close to his ear. "They are close Lucci. Pretend. No kissing on the lips." Your breath fanned his ear as you held him with your hands on his broad chest. Lucci smirked, and put his hands on your hips and drew you closer, making you mutter a curse.

Not again!

When the people were turning towards the alley, all they saw was a woman pushing Lucci against the wall, seeming to kiss him. Which of course they weren't, until you suddenly made a surprise noise from your mouth when you felt a familiar bite on your ear. "Oi." You practically felt his smirk as he replied by your ear, seeming to purr. Making you flush slightly and your spine tingle despite yourself.

"You said nothing about biting." He breathed as you felt his lips on your ear again, feeling his tongue licking it as he bit it harshly. You tightened your hold on his white tank top, to possibly make him stop.

AND THOSE PEOPLE WERE STILL THERE!

Your cheeks were aflame as your eyes were narrowed. What kind of people watch two people kiss in a dark alleyway?! What kind of fetish is that?! They were supposed to leave!

"They aren't going away." You harshly whispered to his ear.

"Let them enjoy the show then." He replied with an ever growing smirk. "It's not as if you aren't used to this."

Your eyes narrowed as your face flushed from a mix of anger and embarrassment.

"I would rather not have perverts watching us, even if we are pretending." You growled in his ear. He moved his head back slightly to face you, his face only a few centimeters away from your own. A smirk on his face. "W-why are you making that face, bastard?"

"Oh? Then perhaps we can show them how far we'll go." When the top assassin began to lean in to your lips, you immediately moved your head away. Causing Lucci to only get your ear again, making him growl and bite you harder, which made you release a grunt of pain and surprise. His breath on your ear once more as you tightened your hand on his tank top, his top hat brushing your head. "You know better than to run, scum."

When the people seemed to get the hint, you immediately backed away and started rubbing your ear with pained noises and curses.

"Ow! Ow! Ow! Jeez! Freakin-cat in heat. Doesn't know how to control himself."

You then went all fours in despair, depressing cloud forming over you as you thought in your mind that you have crazy men kissing you everywhere. During this, Lucci had an amused smirk on his face, until he decided it was time to point out an observation.

"You smell of other men." At your rose eyebrow when you looked up at him from the ground after putting your cap back on he clarified you smelled like different scented men. Two, he recognizes as Kaku and Paulie. There are more that he smells however. You immediately jumped up from the ground and asked with impressed eyes "Woah, your nose got stronger too huh?" Lucci didn't share your enthusiasm as he looked at you with dark eyes and wanting you to answer the question.

"I usually hang around Kaku, who puts his arms around my shoulder sometimes when we're having fun." Lucci's eyes turned to a glare as you continued. "And sometimes I like to jump Paulie to surprise him from time to time. Mostly cause it's hilarious." You smiled, but then quickly lost it as you gazed up at Lucci. "If you're smelling more then two people then...sorry. But I'm not telling."

Lucci didn't really appreciate your answer.

"Say who." He practically demanded.

You rose an eyebrow at him.

You weren't idiotic enough to say any names. You couldn't say Mihawk's name, for he was a Warlord and isn't supposed to be hinted that he's possibly allies with Shanks. And Shanks...well...

You blushed at the thought of his lips on your forehead once more, and then quickly remembering Mihawk's charming kiss to your hand. Which made you darker in red then before. Lucci took this the wrong way.

A hissing snarl.

"Did you manage to find a lover?" He asked with slitted eyes. "Those rumors. Do they have an ounce of truth?"

"No!" You yelled with a blush on your face before looking confused. "Rumors...?"

Still oblivious, Lucci thought as he relaxed his tight jaw, eyes back to his normal dark orbs that were dilated as he said quietly it's unimportant. Only more foolish.

"It's just that...," You began softly, whispering,"I visited the person who saved me that day before I came here." You answered truthfully.

Lucci said nothing as he looked at your soft smile and eyes with adoration, he only growled in agitation.

Hattori pecked you on your face after flying back to you with a coo.

"Idiot~ Idiot~!"

"Hey! I just gave you pets!"

"Coo~! (Y/N)!"

"Don't say my name so cutely after just pecking me, stupid bird."

Lucci watched impassively, before staring out at the entrance of the alley to watch for any passerby's with crossed arms.

"Hattori only speaks the truth, scum. Despite your intelligence, he has twice the wit compared to you."

Your mouth dropped, before scowling with multiple ticks on your face. Growing more once you spotted the side of his lips moved slightly up.

"WHAT THE HECK DID YOU JUST SAY?!"

"Your memory is worse as well," Lucci stated blandly, making you fist a hand against his tank top in anger while saying he must really want to get his ass beat by you before his lips flattened and moved his tanned hand over yours that held him. You taking note of his serious gaze as you blinked. "Remember this. Come to Blueno's at one in the morning tonight. The others, they wish to have a talk as well. It's time we have to head back to the Dock. We can continue this later."

You frowned.

"I'm guessing they're concerned or something..."

Lucci seemed to do his version of a shrug by glancing away before staring at the left side of your face. You noticed you still held his tank top tightly and his hand was still on yours and your faces are pretty close again too.

"Their feelings don't matter but I can see why they may have certain ideas." Lucci's eyes than met your (e/c) ones, staring. You felt slightly the sense of a quiet campfire with a distant Coo. The hand atop yours twitched only for Hattori to peck your face again and breaking your eye contact, turning towards the pigeon who merely gave an innocent Coo as you let go of Lucci to wave a finger at the bird and in turn, Lucci's hand dropped to his side. Putting the hand in his pocket. "Come. That's our cue to go. Don't forget the time."

You huffed, turning your head towards him with strands of hair everywhere below your cap due to Hattori's sadism like his master.

"I won't!"

Besides, you still have other stuff to tell him.

-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-

You stood in front of the bar, the moon high above with clouds covering it as you stared with lips quirked up to the side and your face slightly shadowed from your cap—your scar on the left side of your face screaming danger.

Soon after the both of you came back, work went on as normal. Kaku teaching you the basic things to do and you helping move stuff around quickly in a faster pace due to your strength. Paulie shouting at you when you decided to sneak up on him again and he makes the funny face as he did it with Tilestone commenting(yelling) in the background you're going to kill the man along with the other foremen. Lulu agreeing as he puts down the spike of his hair on the left side of his head only for it to appear on the right side. Lucci just working away as Hattori spoke through him that Paulie needs a lesson either way and their daily fight broke out before ending in a draw due to Iceburg coming out and saying it's been really quiet the last few days from the Franky Family but you were too busy listening to the grinning Kaku as he explained to hear that.

After work, you walked around a bit through the streets of Water 7 before heading to your motel room and freshening up a bit before resting your eyes till it was time.

You sensed everyone else was in there.

A lamb that looks from side to side. A foul ball. A shadowed ship in a bottle half finished. Quiet.

They feel pretty nervous. Besides Lucci. Unsurprisingly. The man doesn't seem to care at all about the risks you bring. Or maybe he still knows you...

Either way, you kicked the door open nearly off its hinges but not quite and three pairs of eyes met yours as one stayed close in the right corner of the bar as you smirked and walked in, you don't really care.

"Yo!" You greeted casually with hands in your pockets, Karasu glinting in excitement as Kuroi ten'nosabaki merely gleamed in the low light of the bar with only three candles on as you walked past the table Kalifa was sitting by with her CP9 outfit along with Kaku stared at you in mild interest behind his shadowed cap and towards the bar countertop Blueno was behind. "You guys really must like outfit changes if you guys changed to the old uniform and everything just to meet me. Sounds like way too much work. And dramatic."

You think you know too many people who are dramatic. They can get pretty ridiculous.

You could see how tense they were, specifically Kalifa and Blueno since it seems Kaku was more wary. Lucci's eyes still closed as he leaned against the corner with Hattori silent as well, signature top hat on his head with his own CP9 uniform on.

Eh. Whatever.

You leaned against the middle of the bar counter, holding up a finger to Blueno who stared at it in question and caution. Your lips quirked up.

"One Gold Shooter Brandy please. On the rocks." When Blueno's eyes widened in front of you, your brows furrowed. Dark eyes zeroing in on your form a few feet away. "What? There's no way you don't have it. What kinda fake bar you got here, Blueno?"

It only took for you to give the bull haired man a pointed look did he do it, the tension not falling as liquid gold was poured into a shot glass before it was sat in front of you.

"Ah, thanks!" You said, Blueno's eyes widening once more along with Kalifa's with Kaku's lips twitching before you grabbed the glass, took a seat on the bar stool and suddenly slid the brandy to the side as you turned in your seat to face the room. Lucci appeared quickly, catching the shot glass in one hand, giving you a look. "Now look. You guys need to relax, I'm frankly not interested at all on what you guys are doing here or the why's. So I'm not really interested in exposing anything either. I'm just here for the heck of it and until I finish up that mess with the galleon."

"You can't expect us to believe that," Kalifa stated, fixing her glasses slightly as she sat with one leg over the other on her chair. Your eyes turning towards her. "Why would you possibly stay silent? You have nothing to lose."

"I got nothing to gain either," You pointed out, crossing your arms and leaning against the counter with your back. "You're just gonna have to take my word for it. You guys don't really have a choice."

"No," Blueno said passively a little to the side of you, you realizing he left from behind the bar counter and was to the right of you now in the corner of the counter. Lucci now to your left as he stared down at the brandy on the rocks. "We don't. Even if you weren't first with us, anyone would know of your reputation you gained quickly after you left. We're no match for you."

You shrugged.

"There ya have it. Are we done than?"

"No," Kalifa said, tone clipped. "It's due to you being trained in skills such as ours and others you've gained that's concerning. Who's to say you even truly know what we are doing and you won't stop us than?"

You sighed loudly, not bothering to hide it.

They're being ridiculous. You were about to tell them so before someone else did it for you.

"You have to give (Y/N)-san more credit than that, Kalifa." Kaku said in slight reprimand as he frowned towards her behind his shadowed cap. "You just said she's been trained like we have. You know that (Y/N)-san might already have an idea of what we're trying to accomplish."

Kalifa shifted her legs, moving a strand of hair behind her ear.

"I know that. That only increases my worry."

"I don't get it." You frowned, arms still crossed to your chest. "Yeah, what Kaku said. I'm not blind. You guys need something from Iceburg." Everyone tensed or eyes widened outside of Kaku and Lucci, Kaku only raising a brow and Lucci still standing as he swirled the shot glass as Hattori stared over at you with beady eyes. "Like I said. Not interested. Don't really want to know or care to know. This is just an information retrieval anyways right? It's not like you can kill Iceburg, he's way too important. And you don't need to get rid of anyone else either."

Kalifa and Blueno shared a glance and seemed to assent to you as Kaku couldn't help but observe to himself that this was the (Y/N) that they all have seen during your time as an assassin with them—distant with personable talk rare. But when you did seem to open up, you would close back up again just as quickly. Seeming to want to ignore whatever you did or said was nothing. It was odd, Kaku noted.

It kind of reminded him of how he is.

"There's something else though," you began again, Kalifa and Blueno turning towards you in attention as Kaku blinked and focused on you. You jabbing a thumb towards Lucci's direction. "This guy didn't have time to tell ya any of this? He should've said the rundown of what we talked earlier when me and him went out."

Out? Kalifa and Blueno thought, in complete bewilderment as they glanced towards the quiet Lucci's back and your confused expression. Them? They didn't do anything weird did they?

The both of you together in Enies Lobby was always an odd sight.

But, the three agents thought in a variation of forms but reach the same conclusion as your head turned towards Hattori who was now next to you perched on the bar counter as you asked Blueno to give you some beans and him doing so only for you to give a plate to a happy Hattori as you stared with quirked lips and poked fun at the pigeon it was still a lover of dried beans, they all know Lucci. He wouldn't endanger the mission,  only when it comes to his bloodthirsty reasons and sticking with the World Government in the first place. To kill.

Even when it comes to you.

Maybe, they observe as they commented that it's best time for them to leave as you shrugged at them and said they could do what they want, especially when it comes to you.

"Leave the key, Blueno." You turned towards Lucci in attention, who brushed his arm against yours as he finally sat down. Him taking a sip of his brandy, and his eyes looking at his drink appreciatively. "I have to finish this drink. Can't have the scum destroy it."

He took a sip as you tsked at him.

"Oh please. I knew you would catch it, bastard."

"Brandy~Brandy~!" Hattori interrupted with a slight flap of his wings and pieces of bean around his beak. Clearly wanting a glass himself.

"You made Hattori into an alcoholic." You deadpanned.

"He merely has good taste," Lucci replied, uncaring with you huffing at him with Lucci merely sipping away, you seeming to get irritated at getting ignored before deciding that Hattori pecking you for a glass isn't what you want, you jumping over the counter and getting the bird a glass with Hattori cooing in delight as he grabbed it.

We're still here, the other agents thought with a mild sweatdrop before moving to leave. Kaku's lips slightly up at Blueno's comment when they left the two alone that he hopes he doesn't find it destroyed with Kalifa replying she thinks he hopes too much.

Kaku glanced back at the bar, eyes in thought along with his smile waning as Blueno and Kalifa quickly used Soryu to leave.

It's like you never left, Kaku observed when he thought back to your never ending arguments or tense sentences back to Lucci when they were all younger—him just a teenager and the two of you young adults. Everyone else already knowing to just let the two of you go at it or they'll get a glare from the cold Zoan. Kaku thought of the moments they trained together with swords, few compared to Lucci since you were equal in strength to the leopard Zoan back than—the times you would helpfully point out his mistakes without needing to. Adjusting his grip with your hands, voice quiet as you taught him what to do and even you saying thanks to him for the spar when he should've been the one thanking you. 

You've always been strange, and not because of your blood relations to your father. It was more than that.

The assassin thought of him teaching you about building ships, you listening attentively with interest in your eyes and a small smile on your lips that somehow looking knowing. Before seeming to get his excitement and widening your grin as you side hugged him with him freezing for a moment each time you did it, before putting an arm around you as well with a smile.

A quickening of his chest occurred, making Kaku's eyes widened as he put a hand to his chest—not again.

"Ah..." Kaku said, a disbelieving chuckle being released. "This really isn't good..."

He can just ignore them, this isn't going to benefit him at all and they can go away again like before. Before...you came back.

Kaku put a hand to his head, eyes shadowed behind his cap and a disbelieving smile on his face.

Lucci won't like this. If the man even feels threatened by him. But the leopard Zoan has never been outright with you. Despite what Kaku has seen from the two of you back than, there's no indication that you were aware of anything—but that's just you.

"What am I doing...? I shouldn't be entertaining this. I'm on a mission." Kaku rationalized to himself, shaking himself out of his stupor. You don't seem to see him like that anyways. Unless he does something to see—

With that, Kaku's cheeks flushed along with some of his nose before using Soryu himself back to his apartment.

Not at all thinking of touching you a certain way with a hand to your waist and your hand in his other as he said he can teach you his style of swordsmanship.

-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-

"You're going to get drunk, Hattori."

"Coo...(Y/N)~!"

"Yeah. He's lost it. Eat some more beans, Hattori. Or else I'll force feed you white rice."

Hattori swiveled his tiny bird head to you, askance.

"Coo!"

You gave the pigeon a pointed look, silent. Hattori's feathers seeming to waver before you gave him more beans from the bag you found on the plate and moving towards it to eat. Lucci merely observing the two of you and your interaction as he swiveled his refilled shot glass next to the bottle of brandy he grabbed upon the counter, his top hat next to the bottle and suit jacket on the chair next to him. Your own hat by your side as well, a cup of (favorite juice/soda) by it on your other side.

Lucci has been mostly silent as he listened to you talk about this or that, outside of when he immediately said once they all left that you need to learn how to knock. And that your manners are still poor. You merely replying that he's still dramatic if he thinks you will just knock on a door to a bar and wait for someone to answer.

Besides. Kicking down doors open is the right way.

Better than blasting a hole in a wall.

You telling him to be careful because you know of embarrassing stories of him due to you once being partners with him and therefore with him a lot, a smirk on your lips as you said it. Only to fall as his eyes cut towards you and give a show of a small sniff, making you flush slightly in immediate knowledge of what he's referring to as he smirked at you and merely said he has stories of his own. It looks like they'll both be silent after all, but man you wished he forgot that!

Still, you thought with a mild frown at his fourth shot glass and Hattori nestled on your head asleep, didn't he say he was going to leave after the first one? It barely even seemed he was listening to me when he wasn't looking.

Lucci noticed your gaze, eyes glinting as you blinked when he brought the glass in front of you.

"Curious if it tastes the same?"

"G-get that o-out of my face!" You retorted, heat in your cheeks as Lucci smirked, taking back his drink and taking a sip with eyes on your flustered expression. "I never should've drunk that. Like I would drink that again w-with you."

"I'm guessing you've been avoiding it ever since," Lucci said, elbow to the counter with holding the glass in the air calmly as he watched your face and tilted his head to the side towards you, locks of his raven hair shifting to his shoulder more as he did so. "Good. Don't drink with anyone like that. Unless a repeat will occur and someone might take advantage..." His dark eyes seemed to flash at that, tanned fingers seeming to tighten around his shot glass before his eyes met your carefully blank ones. "You haven't drunk with someone else, have you?"

Yes.

"You think I will drink with somebody when I know how I get without someone I trust?" You instead said, you only willingly drinking with Ace since he takes good care of you when you get like that. Everything else was an accident. "Trust me when I say what I did the first time with you and everybody has been a lone incident. You think I'm an idiot?"

"Yes."

"...You said that too fast, Kitty." Lucci growled at you in warning at the nickname, only to pause when your curious eyes turned towards his hair. You touching a lock of it and comparing the length now to the one before. "It really has gotten longer...you used to look really emo when you only had your hair to your chin or your neck. I think the last time I saw it was when it was touching your shoulders." You looked at the end of the lock, seeing it goes to a little above his bicep.

Lucci watched you finger his hair, your eyes seeming lost in thought. Your lips barely up but up nonetheless.

Lucci turned away. Taking a sip of his shot as silence reigned for a few moments.

"...I saw the kid." Lucci didn't look your way, but he did keep the cup to his lips. You still played with his way too soft and silky wavy hair that had curls at the end that shows he cares a lot about his looks. How does he not have hat hair? "You probably heard when someone entered Guanhao. It was an accident after I got lost. He seemed..."

You paused, hair between your fingers as your mind showed flashes of blood, of natural and of death with the feeling of it splattering on your cheek. Bodies falling and you staring in disbelief at what a parent would do.

"...well, he was a baby so he wouldn't remember like us." Your lips were quirked up, not meeting your eyes before falling as you let go of the lock, leaning against your hand and staring at the counter. "He's pretty smart though. Careful. I just don't like what goes on down there. Training him for..."

"He would've perished than." Your shoulders tensed at Lucci's blasé tone, eyes shooting at him as he looked down at you. "By the forest. Or an animal. I don't recall you objecting to it at the time. And you wanted to take him in the first place."

"It was my mess."

"It was." You clenched your teeth and Lucci's lips lifted into his most annoying smirks—the sadistic one. "You think I would deny that? You didn't listen to my warning, too soft. You still are, scum." Lucci looked away, lips back into a straight line. "It will be your undoing one day. And the boy is alive and well, the World Government doesn't allow weakness so he will still be in the island."

You released a harsh scoff, turning your head away. Hattori peacefully asleep as you did so.

"I don't want to talk about the shitty World Government, pussycat. I hate it when you talk like that. They're the end all be all when we both know the reason why you stay with them."

Lucci stared at the back of your head, lips lifted a tad.

"I don't need to remind you."

"No, you don't." You than turned back towards him, smirking as Lucci's lips fell and eyes narrowed suspiciously at the look. Your elbow moving his arm slightly. "Not scared of the "fragile weak bodies" are you now though? Hope you haven't accidentally broken a baby or two."

"Don't comment about me. You were petrified." Your face twisted at the memory as Lucci's lips lifted, him grabbing your elbow. "And anything that age is frail, there is no lie to what I said back than."

But he didn't leave the baby either.

"The weak deserve an ill fate, right?"

"Always," Lucci replied coldly. His eyes than meeting yours, brow arched a tad, curious. "Do you agree?"

"...ehhhhh," you leaned back against the chair, legs pushing against the counter as the chair was balancing on two legs as you put your arms behind your head. "Not really. But you don't really care about my opinion either way, right? You haven't changed at all, kitty."

Lucci stared, eyes flashing with different thoughts as he analyzed and read you.

"Despite your constant outbursts compared to before," you glanced at him, "you're still the same soft scum."

He's never gonna stop saying that, is he?

"Oh yeah?" You smirked, putting your hand out as a Lucci glanced at it. Putting Haki in it. "Look here, attack my—" Talons met your hand only to be bounced off as Lucci stared in interest and your smirk twitched in slight annoyance on your face, "You didn't hesitate at all, bastard. But pretty cool, huh?"

"Haki," Lucci realized, leaning over you and grabbing your wrist to inspect. "You're not bleeding. It's similar to Tekkai it seems when it comes to defense."

"But can be pretty good for attacks too," You said as Lucci observed your hand, the hue on it a bluish silver with the black before you retracted it back. Lucci glancing over at you in question, hold still on your wrist. "You guys should be taught it, but your assassins so I get why you won't need it. Surprised you  haven't tried it yet though."

"Why show it to me?" He asked, thumb on your pulse and face right over yours as you stared up at him. "With this knowledge of Haki, it'll be easier for me to inevitably kill you."

"And what if I can just kill you?"

"Then so be it. You're my comrade, so do what you best see fit."

"Are you...are you a naive idiot?"

You huffed at him, smiling up at him as his eyes narrowed.

"Forgot what I said back than? You're not forgetful. You know the answer, besides—" you grinned sharply and Lucci felt your pulse quicken just as his did as he stared at the look. "—not really fun chase if you don't even know how to do at least this. Not like I told you how I did it either. You can figure the rest by yourself I think, Lucci-Neko."

The Hunter thirsts.

You blinked as Lucci tugged at your wrist, your eyes widening and flushing when your face met his chest. You looking up in a scowl to tell him off only to freeze as Lucci stared down at you, dark eyes with a tint of blue gleaming with an equal dark smirk. Hattori blinking his eyes open in a sleepy Coo atop your head, shifting on your head.

"Willing just like that? If you wish to be chased," he went to your ear, breath on it as you tensed and flushed, "Than I'll oblige, scum. You should learn to ask for repayment when you give something. Like an exchange of blood. What...do you want?"

You felt a soft nip to your ear with a heated lap, your breath hitching. You stood hastily from your seat that fell back, face flushed as Lucci looked annoyed. Hattori flying with a coo back to Lucci's shoulders as you shakily and exaggeratedly pointed at him.

"P-p-perverted cat!" You held your ear, still feeling his touch. "I'm not like y-you! Good luck with learning Haki or whatever! I'm not telling you stuff again!"

You used Soryu, rubbing your ear as you used Geppo throughout Water 7 and back to your rented room. Your ear is going to be constantly attacked if you're alone with Lucci! At least with this Lucci and not his fake other one, but his other one is still a lot like him cause a cat can't change their stripes or something like that.

Bad idea!

He seemed okay and he suddenly acted like that again! What's his problem?!

Lucci meanwhile, stared with dark narrowed eyes at the chair you knocked over. Hattori giving a coo on his shoulder.

"Idiot~Idiot~!"

Oblivious imbecile, Lucci thought, finishing off his brandy glass before glancing at the bottle. His favorite brand ever since he obtained a taste for alcohol. Years ago. A true soft fool. He grabbed it, moving to leave himself as he used the keys.

Locking the bar up with a click.

.

.

.

Edited 05/21/21

Added more CP9 stuff! And extra details! Basically combined Kitty Surprise and Bite together and added additional stuff.

There's still more to come when it comes to the other two on here for Side Pairings~ ^//////^

Hope you guys enjoyed!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

**FANART CORNER**

Chapter Text

You had an elbow to Tilestone's back, hand around his twisted wrist, your lips lifted.

"You did good, but not strong enough, big guy." You stated, getting off him as Tilestone loudly grumbled as he stood that you were truly impressive and making your lips widen into a proud smirk. "I gotta be! What I want isn't something easy to get but thanks, Tilestone." You turned towards the other foremen who stared with wide eyes, some nervously sweating and pale. "Who wants to try next?"

"I-I'm good!"

"Maybe we should head back to finishing the galleon, right?"

"Th-that sounds like a good idea! It's almost half finished!"

The other foremen slowly started to leave.

"OI!" Tilestone shouted, crossing his arms and bearded face deep. "WHO TAUGHT YOU TO BE COWARDS?! WE'RE THE SHIPWRIGHTS OF WATER 7! NOW CHALLENGE (Y/N)!"

"But," one of them stated, sweatdropping, "H-how could we possibly compare to you and Lulu...?! (Y/N) beat you guys!"

"WHO CARES?!" The others flinched back at Tilestone's roaring voice, some of it creating a sonic wave and making the foremen's hair fly back as they blinked and got a hair blowout. You tilting you head with a hand to your chin. Not the best hairstyle. "I CLEARLY HAVE BEEN OUTMATCHED...I—" his voice wavered, his eyes suddenly shadowing as he kneeled down. "MY PEDESTAL OF BEING THE MOST BUFF HAS BEEN TAKEN! SOMEONE NEEDS TO COME IN TO BE MY STAND IN!"

"Err," you interrupted, finger up, "I don't think I was doing this for a title—"

"TAKEN!" Tilestone shouted, tears in his eyes and you scratching your head as he went on to punching the floor as the foremen looked around, at a loss.

You wanted some excitement during one of their breaks of building a few days after the bar night, the others seeming to calm down although Lucci has been acting more close and less distant to you for some reason. Hattori even going to your shoulder to the other shipwrights shock. Kaku has been acting odd too...pulling back when you put an arm around his shoulder. At least Paulie still acts the same with his reactions when you're hot or when you jump on him just cause.

"Paulie~!" You jumped from behind as you wrapped your arms around his torso, feeling him immediately stiffen. You quickly let go and went to his front, seeing his face red.

"W-woman! The hell's w-wrong with you?! " He stuttered out, while you just laughed at his expression.

"D-don't laugh at me! Stop doing this!"

He was too funny. He even told you to button your shirt one day when it was very hot, and you only unbuttoned three and you had a tank top underneath but it seemed it was still too scandalous for Paulie when you were working.

"You're distracting with t-that!" Paulie pointed at your white dress shirt, you rolling your eyes with a laugh and continued your business, not really bothered by his statements. You did button at least one, just so he could perhaps calm down. He didn't though.

"(Y/N)!" Paulie yelled once again as he came over towards you. "I thought I told you to button them!"

You only rose an eyebrow at him.

"Maybe it's better I just take my whole shirt off then." You teased with a smirk. The blond man quickly shut his mouth, nearly breaking his cigar with a little blood trickling from his nose as he walked away.

In order to make some excitement, you decided it to be a good idea to challenge the Galley-La men to a nice friendly fight. You not using your swords or any special moves really, just your body. Kaku looking mildly concerned when you made the announcement and saying that may still not be fair quietly to you with you waving him off that this is just for fun, despite his words and doubt you could tell he was curious. Paulie and Lucci away when you made the announcement, you think to Iceburg or to a customer.

Lulu went first, using his saws that you dodged with your body and head with each swing before you ended the fight by catching the saws with two hands. Lulu accepting and going back to watch frok the sidelines dutifully after you said that was fun and you haven't really seen people use building saws for weapons before. After fixing his bad hair of course. It just went to his mustache though.

Tilestone was eager, using his hammer and shouting all the while before you put him down.

"You are impressive, (Y/N)-san," Kaku said with a smile before walking towards you until he stood in front of you, hands in his hips. "I want to try."

You blinked before grinning.

"Sure! You can start whenever you're ready."

Kaku hummed before pointing to where you left Kuroi ten'nosabaki and Karasu to the side against stacks of wood.

"Can you pick your buster sword up? We should make it fair." When you tilted your head and said it is fair for you to not use weapons, Kaku's smile turned knowing as they quirked further. "Not for you, (Y/N)-san.  For me. Your weapon is one of the heaviest out there when it comes to the famed ones. You being the wielder got used to the weight, but without that extra few kilograms holding you back...you're faster."

Smart Kaku.

You grinned sharply in response.

The other foremen's eyes widened as they muttered between themselves that it was true and they didn't realize sooner. You did show off your buster sword the other day.

"Pfft! Saw through that, huh? My bad!" You grabbed the gleaming Kuroi ten'nosabaki and placed it back on your back, tilted due to its great height compared to yours and leaving the glinting hungry Karasu. Karasu was lighter and won't have any effect on you at all. "Having Kuroi ten'nosabaki on me barely, if at all, affects me when I carry him but I notice I'm quicker without him. When I'm not using him and it's on my back though...I can't really move as natural. But ya know that too."

"Hai, Hai (Y/N)-san." Kaku simply stated with a serious smile before putting a hand to a chisel. The foremen awwing and cheering for their 'Mountain Wind', making Kaku scratch his nose sheepishly with a laugh. "Come on everyone, it's not a big deal! It's a natural conclusion to come to."

"Oi," the foremen said, flapping their hands in a deadpan including the loud Tilestone and straight faced Lulu. "Don't be so honest in calling us stupid."

Kaku blinked, turning towards them. "Oh, did I say that? Sorry!"

"So honest!" They yelled.

He turned back towards you, cap slightly shadowing his eyes.

"You ready, (Y/N)-san?"

"Ready!"

You ducked, a sound of a chisel being embedded to the wood behind you. You dodging to the side once more as your eyes narrowed at Kaku. Chisels in both hands, between each knuckle. More being hurled at you as you quickly side stepped and dodged each one along with kicks towards you.

He hurled two more towards you, you darted to the side into a jump kick. Kaku dodging, chisel in hand and going towards your shin. You twisted your body in midair, hand going atop Kaku's head and lifting yourself up atop him—your blouse slightly lowering and showing off your stomach due to the move.

Kaku's head lowered due to your weight as he grunted, before using his softened use of Geppo during his time here. Making you land in a back flip, before moving your head once more only to feel slight air to your arm.

You blinked, turning towards your arm to see your blouse got the tiniest nick before grinning at Kaku proudly.

"You got my blouse! Pretty good to throw when I'm trying to land! Pretty great actually, Kaku!" Kaku smiled, his cheeks looking a little red due to the exertion of trying to nail you. Your grin than turning more into a show of teeth as you smirked. "Not enough though."

Kaku blinked and you were in front of him, hand pushing against his chest with the other to his wrist. Chisels fallen and you were straddling over him with your lips quirked, (e/c) twinkling meeting wide walnut as you kept his wrist above his head. Your knee pressed against his other arm as he swallowed at his close your face was.

"Listen up everyone, we got a new customer for a brig to fix the main mast—WHAT IS THAT CRAZY WOMAN DOING?!"

You and Kaku turned your heads to see Paulie was back with Lucci, Iceburg, and Kalifa in tow. Paulie appearing red faced and blond hair mussed from he was staring at, you think he was saying other stuff but it sounded like gibberish as his voice cracked. Lucci's gaze honed in on your straddling position to your bewildered expression trying to understand the prudish foremen before glancing away in disinterest, hands in his pockets with his thumbs out. Kaku noticed the dismissal, eyes slightly narrowed in realization.

Lucci isn't threatened at all. And (Y/N), Kaku looked at your turned away face saying to Paulie calmly you don't understand the language he's speaking. Tilestone quickly explaining that they are just accepting and meeting your challenge as to keep the honor of the Galley La, which isn't true since this was for fun and said keeping honor was clearly not working either. Paulie calming down at that although still reprimanding you that you're being indecent just staying there with you over him and hands on him as you explained it was just a hold. You're completely unaffected...hah...is this how Lucci feels? She must still see me as a kid.

After Kaku tapped the hand around his wrist twice, you got off him and turned towards Iceburg with a raised brow who had a lawn chair instead of a lounge chair out today. Kaku sneaking a glance at Lucci, their eyes meeting only for Lucci to turn away again as Kaku frowned.

"Did you cancel some events again?" You asked the mayor, who was too busy gazing at the clouds.

"I cleared my schedule today," Iceburg answered easily, looking way too content and not at all responsible like a mayor should be. The city should be doomed. "It's too fine a day today, look at the clouds." You looked up at the cloudy sky, some looking gray and the sun being hidden. You looked back at him with a doubtful expression. "Also Kalifa can help me keep in schedule."

Kalifa fixed her glasses needlessly on her nose, the glass flashing as she gazed at her clipboard.

"We are two days behind schedule."

"Better than three!" Iceburg said easily.

"You're a bad mayor," you repeatedly bluntly from before. You lifting your arm to block the kick you expected, steady (e/c) eyes under your cap meeting Kalifa's with your lips lifted. "Wanna accept the challenge too? I might take this as us starting."

"Oooo!" A foreman called excitedly. "A match between our beautiful secretary and (Y/N)!"

"Cat fight!" Another whooped.

You distantly think Lucci would take offense to that phrase.

"Shut up, you idiots!" Paulie yelled at the group, eyes than turning towards you and Kalifa before flushing. "Kalifa! Damn it, put your leg down—your skirt raises up like that!"

"EVEN PAULIE IS EXCITED FOR THIS VENTURE!" Tilestone exclaimed with his bulky arms up and flexing at his sides for some reason. "YOUR FACE FLUSHED SHOWS IT!"

Paulie twirled around towards Tilestone, fist up.

"S-shut up, Tilestone!"

"Now, now," Kaku said through a calm smile, hands in a placating motion between the two. "Let's not get ahead of ourselves." Despite that, his eyes took in the sight of your calm form with Kalifa's brows drawn together as they kept their position. Kaku looking down and scratching his square long nose.

"We need to get back to work, Coo~! ," Hattori stated through Lucci, him glancing at the two of you. A dash of interest in his eyes before he turned away, already knowing the outcome.

Kalifa released a small huff, putting her leg down only to appear at the whooping foremen now bruised foremen after a barrage of kicks before going back to Iceburg's side.

"You staring like that is sexual harassment."

"S-Sorry, Kalifa!" The foremen apologized through their injured faces.

"I got hit too," Iceburg pointed out on his lawn chair, welt to his cheek and causing him to sound muffled. "I wasn't even staring at you."

"You abuse your power, but you get abused too." You pointed out with a chuckle before turning towards Paulie and pointed at him as he knitted his brows. "Your turn! Try to hit me!"

"What?" Paulie tsked, turning away and crossing his arms as he turned his head away. "Why would I bother doing that?"

"Tilestone said something about honor, but it's for fun! Come on!" You pushed with a grin but Paulie was not budging as he slightly scowled around his cigar.

"Our pride as foremen isn't the reason you're doing this so let's just get back to work." Paulie moved to go past you as your grin faltered. He's being boring for some reason right now, what's up with him? You have your blouse on. "We have to finish this galleon as well so we have to split up between this and the new brig."

"Don't tell me you're scared." You taunted, having Paulie glance at you as you kept going with your hands to your hip and a smirk. "You fight with ropes, yeah? Concerned you might see them tear cause of me?"

Paulie scoffed, lips twitching in amusement.

"Don't be ridiculous. Our ropes are famous for being able to hold on to any weight—no matter how heavy. You're not going to tear them and since you're not using your swords—no cutting either."

"Sounds like you think you can beat me," you poked at him again. You know he probably doesn't, he probably knows you can take him easily but this is meant to be fun instead of serious! Besides, based on how everyone enjoyed the fights and looking the most relaxed they have in days—they're enjoying it as well. "Think your precious rope can hold me down?"

Dark eyes zoomed towards you at your challenging words as Paulie slightly flushed, muttering "Shameless". Kalifa wishes she had a cocktail right now, but instead she's covering her exasperated face behind her clipboard as Kaku stared at you with round eyes. Everyone else looking pointedly away at the sky or the ground.

You're oblivious.

You noticed Paulie making one of his funny faces again but you didn't say anything or do anything besides making fun of his ropes—

Wait...

...

Ropes...

...

Tying.

...

Steam came out from the top of your head as you flushed.

"I-I wasn't talking a-about that!"

"You just noticed?!" The foremen and Paulie shouted.

"PERVERTS!"

"You said it, not me!" Paulie sharply retorted, but you did not let up and saying he has to challenge you now for thinking something so perverted even though he's a prude. "I-I'm—I'M NO PRUDE, CRAZY WOMAN! And for the last time, no—"

"I'll go to the casino with you and give you my winnings."

Paulie brandished his rope in his hands, the air around him sparkling.

"What are you waiting for than?!"

"You're too easy, Paulie." Lulu, Tilestone, Iceburg and the other foremen stated flatly.

"Coo! How like you to take advantage in a game of fun, Paulie." Lucci remarked through Hattori and Paulie bit back saying you're the one who suggested it. Which you did, you're just staring at Lucci dully. Him saying that and acting like he's innocent from the same thing is mind boggling. "Poor Miss (Y/N) doesn't know what she just agreed to. Is that a habit?"

At the falsely innocent tone, you gritted your teeth as you looked to the side to meet Lucci's eyes.

"Don't call me Miss." Was all you said before you faced back forward towards the ready Paulie, his ropes in his hands. You made a motion for him to come at you and added to not hold back, you can handle it. It was only a millisecond later a rope met your wrist, you glancing at the hand to your hip with the encircled rope only for you to next bed sharply tugged. Suddenly you were in the air, rope tight on your wrist until you felt a pull to the ground. The ground almost meeting your face if you didn't place your free hand upon it. You peered over—eyes slightly shadowed under your cap and your blouse ridden up, your (skin tone) stomach being shown—to see Paulie's hands tight around his ropes, still in position of how he threw you forward and brows together in determination. Your eyes gleamed around your grin. "Gotta do better than that, Paulie~."

You pulled your encased wrist harshly, noticing the strength only for Paulie to wring back the rope to his sleeves. Catching on what you were trying to do.

Can't pull him around with his own rope, but he can't do much to me besides pull me around. Although it's impressive he can handle Kuroi ten'nosabaki's weight...

You pushed your hand against the ground, doing an experimental kick towards him to see what he's going to do. You've been going easy on everyone, like you said, it's just for fun.

Paulie sidestepped, darting before thrusting out two ropes from his sleeves.

"Rope Action!" He called as the ropes went above you as you landed on the ground, glancing at it questionably before you looked at Paulie who still had a look of concentration. "Top Knot!"

The ropes squeezed your arms and than just as suddenly got yanked—your gaze blurring as you spun speedily. Are you hallucinating, or are there three Hattori's over your head? You didn't focus on it cause you were too busy laughing, your stomach ticklish as you stopped spinning.

You turned towards two bewildered Paulie's, eyes swirly with a dopey grin.

"Again! Do that again! Hurk—" you stopped, hand to your mouth. "Ah...maybe not again...but I can handle one more I think. Do it faster though!"

Paulie blinked at you dumbly.

"You shouldn't even be standing."

"(Y/N)-san seems to be having fun," Kaku pointed out in mild amusement, watching as you slight stumbled and drew closer to a confused Paulie with your hands together for him to do that move again but more power. Kaku couldn't help but release a small laugh behind a fist at your dizzy expression. "Might as well humor her, Paulie!"

Lucci felt his eyes go skyward in a mimicry of rolling his eyes at your childish behavior. Hattori cooing from his shoulder, wings shaking as you practically begged the rope man. You're not taking this serious in the slightest. Just like he predicted although your taunts were unexpected...despite himself, his dark eyes turned back towards you—spotting your wide grin at the rope man.

Tanned hands in pockets twitched.

"Don't make fun of me!" Paulie shouted, making you blink, your eyes clearing at his words with his ropes in both hands as his eyes were narrowed at you. "Take this seriously or you're just going to hold back the whole time?"

"I'm not making fun of you," you said slowly, seriously, before your eyes brightened as you pointed at his ropes. "Your ropes are pretty cool!" Paulie's eyes rounding at the compliment matched with your sincere expression, "How do you fit so much in your sleeves anyways? They seem pretty endless from what I've seen when you use them for work. And they're so long! Say," you paused, hand to your chin in mock thought. "...you have to stuff them in your pants too, right? That must be...uncomfortable."

Paulie flushed.

"Y-You're shameless!"

"Ah," you put a fist to your hand. "I'm right!"

"THAT IS NOT HOW IT WORKS!"

"You got caught, Paulie," Iceburg teased from his lawn chair, Paulie whipping towards the mayor—teeth sharp.

"WHY ARE YOU STILL HERE?!"

"It's a beautiful day—"

"It's cloudy!" Paulie interrupted as you released small chuckles turning into laughter as the other foremen teased Paulie that they now know why he's so uptight, Paulie turning towards them with a red face with ticks as you felt at ease at the love of ships and creations out of nothing. ""IT DOESNT WORK LIKE THAT, YOU FOOLS! And fine," Paulie tightened the hold of his ropes as he turned back towards you as you rose a brow expectantly. "You want to get sick and lose easily for letting me do this, I won't say no!"

You didn't think much of his acquiesce, as you spun even faster and you're sure you're seeing kebabs going around this time as everyone laughed easily at the situation. Completely out of control from the original challenge, but Iceburg noticed something at his very comfortable lawn chair as he sipped a mimosa even as Paulie looked at you oddly as you nearly stumbled multiple times to the floor. As if you were another being entirely, but instead of complaining—Iceburg's eyes looked interested as he stared at his goggled friend's lips who were up. The mayor wonders if he even knows it—how the smoking man stares at you as if he wants to figure you out instead of pushing you away like Paulie always tends to do.

Iceburg has taken note that you have an interesting effect on others, whether it's with Paulie or the other foremen or even with Kalifa. All the rumors Kalifa reported to him in his office when you first came aside, he's also fairly sure not all of them could be true due to your oblivious and surprisingly shy nature despite how you like to tease and mess with Paulie.

Iceburg idly wonders if you enjoy how Paulie reacts and find it funny because you yourself have been a victim of endless teasing and you just happen to choose Paulie as a form of revenge.

Poor Paulie.

You probably aren't even fully aware of why Paulie gets frazzled so much when you jump on him.

Kaku's reactions are quite interesting too, Iceburg idly noted as he turned his observant gaze towards Kaku. The long nosed man seeming to want to hide his laughter and smile at your antics as you and Paulie seemed to continue the fight, even though Paulie told you to wait with you saying through a nauseous groan that no excuses even as you kicked another foremen instead of Paulie due to your turning vision. He was alright though, if his thumbs up under planks of wood was any indication. Kaku is different with you too, but in a way where Iceburg can't tell if the young man wants to be distant from you or get closer. He seems like he wants to, Iceburg wonders what's holding the normally honest young man back.

The most interesting though, Iceburg sneakily peered over towards his right a little ways away near Kaku, only for his brows to rise. The quiet ventriloquist foreman, Lucci, looked as he always did—hands in his pockets with Hattori to his shoulder and his top hat shadowing his eyes. Except, Iceburg thinks he can actually spot something in the quiet man's focused gaze towards you as you jumped or flipped and laughed around Paulie's ropes that were thrown or launched towards you(you might've been overdramatizing just how dizzy you were before) and seeming to penetrate you. If Iceburg didn't know any better...the quiet man appeared to be in between appraising you or wanting to pull you back. Strange to see you act this way, to anyone. Is there a reason you're teasing  (Y/N)?

Lucci teased Paulie, of course in a way one might not see as teasing. More like constantly reprimanding the gambling man or mocking him due to the blonds habits—but only when Paulie mentioned it or did an action where Lucci had an opening to attack.

With you...Lucci seems to not wish to listen when you constantly tell him to not call you Miss, as if you were personally insulted each time he said it. Which, Iceburg thinks, just makes him want to do it more.

Who knew that guy was like a childish bully when it comes to feelings.

At least...Iceburg thinks he has feelings. He knows Hattori does, the pigeon thanked him for sunflower seeds once. Unless Lucci was thanking him in behalf of the bird by using the bird to talk for him—but that can't be right.

What was he thinking again?

Ah yes, Iceburg stared up at the dark cloudy sky with a distracted smile as he lounges back, what a nice day.

Eventually, the little challenge ended up with Paulie's stomach touching the floor—you atop his back and keeping his arms tightly crossed behind him as Paulie flushed at your warm body over his as your just smirked.

"Got you! The Top Knots were crazy fun though!"

Paulie's head turned towards you, mouth looking odd and nervous as you blinked.

"G-get off me, crazy woman! You won!"

"Geez, relax." You got off him, Paulie keeping his back towards you as he rubbed his wrists of where your hands were—cigar tight in his jaw before rubbing his face and not at all thinking of how you found his ropes amazing and useful nor how you looked saying it. He's not thinking it. Crazy women shouldn't be listened to. "It's just a hold, ya know. Besides," you drew closer, putting a hand to his shoulder as Paulie tensed, looking at you with a scolding ready only to pause at your knowing glance as you said quietly, "you were holding back too. You've used knives in your ropes before. I could've handled it."

Paulie grunted, turning his head away.

"Why should I give you my all if you weren't? Hope you hold onto your side of the bargain though—the casino I know just added blackjack in their games and I know I'll be able to win."

"Ah," you smiled through a sweatdrop at Paulie's words, "you seem confident."

"Confident in his loss perhaps," both of you turned to see Lucci who drew closer as Hattori spoke, Paulie immediately scowling and lifting his jacket sleeve as he asked Lucci if he wanted to fight. But Lucci's gaze were focused on yours as your eyes met, dark eyes flashing as your blood pumped in expectation already of what he wants. A challenge! "Not you, coo~! I believe it's time for my turn, Miss (Y/N). Surely you have energy for one more, yes?"

This kitty and his need to fight...

"Pfft, whatever! You're just gonna get beat! Maybe you'll stop calling me that when you get thrown around."

You broke your gaze, turning away and stepping to have space for the fight as Paulie moved towards the other foremen who were leaning against stacks of logs or parts of ships. Karasu glinting in excitement by the stacks of planks as it laid again at it, eager although your have no plans on using it. Nor Kuroi ten'nosabaki.

It's been awhile, anyways.

You heard Lucci a little ways behind, your cap shadowing your face as you subconsciously smirked and tapped the tip of your boot twice with your hands to your pockets.

Lucci, outside of your gaze, also having his hands still in his pockets as he stared intently to your back.

Kaku and Kalifa glanced at each other, wary.

Is this a good idea?

"Coo, Coo~! Let's make this more interesting ," You tilted your head in attention, turning your head slightly over your shoulder as Lucci continued. "Let's change the causes of loss between us. Take away the use of your hands completely." You fully turned your head now, as Lucci nodded once to your hands in your pockets. "If you use them, for any reason—let's make it your loss."

"Ohhhh, interesting!"

"Lucci really wants to do us proud!"

"HAAAA!! THE PRIDE OF US FOREMEN ARE COMPLETELY ON OUR LUCCI! YES!"

"Tilestone, please stop crying. And yelling!"

Kaku glanced at Lucci questioningly. Lucci must know even with that, he won't win—you've grown exponentially since the last time they saw you. What's his angle?

You must notice this too, Kaku looked towards you and sweatdropped.

You were irked.

Confident, is he? You thought with slightly narrowed eyes, not noticing how his dark eyes gleamed calculably. As if that will help at all. Gotta turn that arrogant Neko down a peg.

"I'll do you one better," you challenged, fully turning your body towards him and than used the tip of your boot to a make small circle in the dirt of your feet and tapped the inside twice. "Not only will I not take my hands out of my pockets, for anything, I won't move from this circle. If I touch the outside of it, even a little—you'll win. Although I doubt it." You ended with a smirk.

Kalifa put a hand to her face, rubbing her temple momentarily.

You never learn.

Lucci's hat shadowed his eyes.

"Are you sure, Miss (Y/N)? Coo! These are a lot of handicaps. And you wish for me not to hold back."

Urk! Him and calling you Miss! And he's mocking you too!

You held back from showing your irritation though, only smirking at him with closed eyes instead since he's soooo going to lose no matter what he does.

"Positive!" You missed how the Zoan's lips twitched, pleased. "Go ahead and start anytime cause I'm—" your senses shouted at you, making you duck down quickly and feeling air above your head. You opened your eyes and your eyes rounded. "What the—where'd you take out that long saw from?! Your pants?!"

Lucci had a large saw that you think is meant for one person on each side to cut over his shoulder, with Hattori flying overhead with a coo. So of course, he can't talk anymore.

He didn't seem to want to wish to, moving the saw down on you where you had to either block with a raised leg or dodge by ducking or jumping over the blade aimed at your legs. All without taking your hands out your pockets. When you would block the saw, you would do it by sending a powerful kick at the flat of the saw by twisting your body and forcing Lucci away. You might be doing it a little harder but he can take it.

The lust for blood to be met.

You sweatdropped.

Gosh, he's so bloodthirsty. You can even spot in his eyes when you dodged by bending your upper half back from the saw of how his eyes shone only for your eyes to widen when a leg was about to meet your stomach.

I can't take that, I'm not using Haki in this fight and the momentum he has will have me go over the line!

Your eyes flashed as you moved to continue to move backward, doing a little hop of your legs as you did a backflip and blocked the hit as well as kick him away.

Lucci landing atop a stack of planks and looking at you, swiping his chin that you kicked.

"W-Woah! What a harsh kick!"

"Pah, that dick can handle it," Paulie said casually with crossed arms. "Seems that crazy woman is more on the offensive now compared to before because of the restrictions."

"Question is," Lulu interjected thoughtfully, fixing the hair stuck out from his mustache to come up to the top of his head. "How will she make sure Lucci stay down? She ended all the others with a hold on us but without her hands—that will prove difficult."

"You guys are underestimating her," everyone's eyes turned towards the relaxed Iceburg, his hands interlaced on his lap with an empty champagne cup by him. Pointedly ignoring the stacks of paper that Kalifa places on his lap to sign. "You think someone has a bounty that high for nothing? She might prove to be creative."

"Iceburg-san is right," Kalifa fixed her glasses, going to her clipboard and pulling up your wanted poster of you with a closed eye smile that looked threatening towards the camera. "All one needs is to look through old newspaper clippings to see a few of her feats. Takes more than luck to turn kingdoms or islands with nobles upside down in mere days."

"LIKE HOW SHE POWERFULLY LIFTS LOGS ON HER SHOULDER AT ONCE NO DOUBT!" Tilestone stated in admiration.

"That's more strength than being creative," Kaku commented with a smile and mild sweatdrop.

You looked down at your feet, spotting you were a few centimeters by the edge of the line.

That was close—he's using his momentum to his advantage compared to you since you're restricted with little movement. Your buster sword was still to your back too and you can't use your hands to adjust it if needed so you can dodge more easily.

You're still fine though, you just have to be careful.

Your senses raged once, dropping down in a position with one leg out with the other bent. You than having to jump over the saw coming for your ankles, you glancing above through the shadows of your cap to see Lucci's head above your own. His own face slightly shadowed from others but not from you due to the angle.

What is he planning to do? Trying to get the same attack twice? He's going to have to try harder than that—

Lucci opened his mouth and blew lightly on your ear.

Wha—

You made an odd noise, flushing as you lost your balance. Stumbling forward as everyone's expressions were bewildered at what happened only for their eyes to widen as your foot drew near the line.

That—THAT PERVERTED CAT IN HEAT!

Your heated face glared above you to the devilish Zoan's face, lips in a dark tilted smile, satisfied.

He—you're going to lose!

That, you can't lose to this—this!

Your eyes flashed, twisting for your feet to in the air. Your elbow to the ground as you encircled your legs under your perverted old partner's armpits as his eyes widened a tad.

As well as everyone else's.

"PERVERT!" Was all you shouted, before you basically suplexed him forward with your legs head first as everyone gasped or made noises of shock as dust and dirt clouded their vision from the force you did. You scowling down at Lucci as you kept your legs tight around him, you sitting on him due to the momentum gone and your hands still in your pockets. Lucci slowly lifted his head, top hat gone due to to what you did and instead a few feet away, than turned his head up towards you. Eyes unreadable and making you smirk in vengeance. "Finally down despite your challenge. I was...getting tired of throwing you around."

Lucci's eyes flashed at words from long ago being spit back at him and a small sound from the back of his throat akin to a growl rose. Which usually means he's irritated or annoyed, but...why does his eyes look excited?!

He grabbed your ankles firmly and you tensed, expecting him to not give in because why would he? He's Lucci. Only for his grip to relax as he tapped you twice.

You rose your brows and stared down at him oddly before getting off of him, feet still in the circle as you watched him warily. Lucci stood up, wiping away dust and dirt that got on his tank top and picking up his top hat, cleaning it as well before placing it back on his head. Hattori landing back on his shoulder with a happy coo as Lucci kept his face hidden. Everyone whooping and congratulating you and telling Lucci he did his best when it comes to fighting you as Paulie huffed that the dick seems to be the loser and that he'll win in the casino later. Kaku just watching with a mild frown at Lucci, feeling something amiss as well as with Kalifa.

"Coo! As I thought, your strength is commendable and you're worthy of your reputation. Your desire to win might help you achieve that high ambition of yours, (Y/N)."

You stared dumbly at him.

...

Did he...just compliment you?

Hah?!

And his words...he remembered your old dream but—

He said your name.

Without anything. No insult in the middle of it or anything. Anything!

You than squinted your eyes, disbelieving.

You hit his head too hard. That's it. You made the kitty delusional.

Lucci raised his eyes to meet your doubtful ones.

"Something wrong, (Y/N)?"

You blinked. Twice.

You than pointed harshly at his impassive face, mildly scowling.

"Don't call me that!"

The foremen, mayor and secretary all sweatdropped.

"Didn't you tell him to stop adding/calling you Miss?" They deadpanned.

"Do you prefer Miss than?"

You crossed your arms in an X and made a buzzer sound.

"Don't call me that either! You—" you don't really know what the problem was. Lucci saying your name was just—well, weird. Lucci observed your expression, looking lost. His lips twitched. "Just—none of them! It's—it's the bird! Yes, Hattori is making it sound weird! Birds shouldn't sound so high!" You ended with a nod as Hattori pointed his wing to his chest in a confused coo.

"It's...ventriloquism, (Y/N)-san." Kaku couldn't help but point out, you just shook your head repeatedly as if it would make it untrue. "He's speaking through Hattori."

"Weird!" Was all you said, turning your head away. Not seeing Lucci's lips curving behind his hat, appearing endlessly satisfied and amused. "Choose a better voice to use Hattori, it'll be better!"

Now in that, Kaku and Kalifa thought and they're sure Blueno would think the same, we can agree on.

It doesn't make sense! Giving up easily like that? Than again...he's appearing weaker for the mission they're on.

Maybe that's why he didn't want to go again...and you have to remind yourself to not treat this Lucci—on the mission—to the one you know. Of course he'll treat you different.

Yes. The compliment was just a front and him calling your name too.

It just helps him.

"Coo!" Hattori stated with his wings out as Lucci pocketed his hands, you turning towards the Zoan in question that was gazing at you. "I'll think about your advice, (Y/N)."

"Stop that!" You raged.

Kaku observed the two of you, assessing. Kaku thinks...he knows what makes Lucci feel threatened now, as he watched your attention not turning from the clearly pleased and amused Lucci if you watched his eyes and can read them. But Kaku feels like he's still missing something.

-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-

"You suck at this!"

"I said I would go with you and give you my winnings, I never said I was good at it."

"You...urk, you might as well have given me your playing chips and I would've played myself."

"But than I wouldn't get to play."

"You don't know what you're doing!"

You pouted slightly.

"That's not nice."

Paulie gave a frustrated shout as he missed his blond hair atop his head as they stood in the middle of the casino, their playing chips nearly gone.

It was a few days after the challenge break or the "We Foremen Lost Our Honor" challenge according to Tilestone. Iceburg was just pleased nothing broke somehow during all the little challenges, especially with your luck.

When Kaku would continue showing you what to do when fixing the galleon, you noticed him seeming to be lost in thought. Not looking the way he did previously when he talked about his passions and felt like the clear, crisp wind towards sails. Instead feeling like a wandering ship in the bottle at sea. You wonder what's wrong and want to ask but it never felt like the right time. You hope he feels better—you don't want this Kaku to disappear. The one you knew before...a kid shouldn't look so serious.

Your patience was thinning with Lucci, he either switched from just calling your name or calling you Miss when he called for your attention about the galleon and you don't know what to do to make him stop. It's your name! How else would he call you?!

Yesterday was when you quickly pulled Paulie to a corner by Iceburg's office, Paulie's face red when you did it and angrily demanding you what's your problem through a stutter and why they're hiding back here and you shushed him by putting your hand to his mouth, almost squishing his cigar but not quite. You think his skin felt ridiculously hot but you were too busy having him keep quiet as you drew closer—the sun setting on the horizon signifying the end of the day.

"I'm telling you we have to go to the casino quick if you still want to, so relax. I just...wanted to do it without anyone knowing which one we're going to or when."

Mostly because you don't want to be followed. Despite their words, and ignoring Lucci(even that's a stretch) you doubt you'll be left truly alone with Paulie. They'll probably be scared you'll tell. Lucci just gets into hissy fits at times—but you don't care about those.

Paulie however, rose his brows as he pulled your hand off his mouth.

"Why would you want to keep it a secret? Does it matter?"

Yes.

You looked to the left and right once before saying your answer, staring intently at Paulie who grew concerned.

What are you going to say? Did you happen to get sucked into loan shark trouble too?

You opened your mouth.

"A cat has been attacking me constantly and can sniff me around and seems to know where I am if I go to the common routes. There's also a form of bull, not like a Yagara, that seems determined to chase me with his horns. I don't like it. And than there's this lamb that is not gentle at all and can be actually annoying if you ignore how smart it is actually and does things for reasons. And certain places the wind is strong and I might get blown away if I'm not careful. So you see, it has to be a secret." You ended intently.

"...because everyone knows the cat, bull, lamb, and will tell the wind?"

You nodded, ever serious.

"It's very imperative it has to be a secret."

Paulie stared at you as if he was confused whether to take you to the hospital or if he should actually believe your words. You looked so serious saying it, no break at all and as if the world would end if they didn't keep the casino time and location a secret.

Paulie eventually agreed though, seeming to ignore what just happened as his eyes sparkled at which one they go to and how much you were willing to buy in to enter. Also asking you if you knew how to play certain games, with you answering you know poker the best out of all games in casino's due to you playing with someone who owned one. Paulie looked interested at that as they talked and strolled around the city of water—you not sensing anyone so didn't think anything of it.

"What? Really? Where?! Maybe what I need to do to get rid of my debt is use my loan money to buy a casino myself..."

"That's a horrible idea," you immediately stated before you looked up at the sky, arms behind your head as you thought. "It doesn't matter anymore. He was being stupid and got locked up now. He gambles wrong."

Paulie blinked, staring at your contemplative expression as he puffed his cigar. You looked a little troubled if those furrowed brows are any indication.

You must've been close. He'll probably get out of jail, you don't seem the type to know scummy criminals.

Than again, you don't seem like anybody.

Paulie looked away, scratching the back of his neck and feeling out of depth as he walked next to this crazy shameless woman.

That lizard is probably on his way to Impel Down now. Or just arrived... You thought of the tortures that occur down there before releasing a small huff through your nose. Like those will do anything. I'll be surprised if his head will even fit through the entrance.

After they walked around a little more, Paulie stared the casino's name and suggested to pick you up from the motel you're staying at. You having to deny and say you'll meet him there instead, you being so close to Blueno's isn't helping you any to try to keep eyes off of you.

You actually wearing pants that you got from a Galley La merch store, this city really loves their foremen, and were work pants with a lot of pockets instead of your knee length shorts. Very convenient really. When Paulie arrived, you noticed him wearing a leather jacket instead of his jean one, as well as wearing black dress pants although he still had a yellow shirt underneath. Weird style.

You really have no room to talk, the narrator pointed out.

You still have your swords on you as the both of you walked in and got the chips. Paulie playing blackjack and losing or winning, but when he won—he got cocky and kept playing thinking he'll get more.

You stared at him flatly as he did it once more, losing all his chips except for one possibly buy in.

You think you see his problem.

He loses and gets arrogant easily when he does win.

Of course, his hope of getting money from you slowly depleted from his sparkling eyes as he watched you play next to him. It looked sort of sad actually, his eyes are completely dark now as he holds his head in between his hands with his blond hair up and his jaw tight on his cigar.

You couldn't help but think he sort of looks how Shanks acts when the red hair panics, rare as it may be.

"I thought you said you knew how to play...! You're making plays that don't make sense."

"I'm too busy trying to think instead of just playing cause you keep making comments at the table." You made a show of looking around, eyes wandering to the waiters with drinks and security and dealers at tables. "I'm actually surprised we haven't been kicked out yet...you were pretty loud when you were winning."

"That doesn't—" Paulie took a breath, stressed beyond belief. The amount he has to owe now if he loses all this money...he probably won't be able to walk peacefully in the streets for awhile. He lowered his hands and made a chopping motion at his open palm as you blinked at him. "Look. You're supposed to think when playing the games. People win by calculating the probability of what other cards others may have or other tricks in gambling. There's even ways to win in roulette! Consecutively!"

You frowned, in thought.

"I feel like that may just have to do with following your gut than thinking. I think you'd win more if you played more with the idea of having fun and following what your gut says."

Paulie scoffed, looking away as he took a puff from his cheap cigar.

"If only it was that easy. You have to plan—that's the only way you can win."

You stared at Paulie's face for a few moments, him glancing at your look and raising a brow as he asked what.

"You're playing wrong," you said, staring intently at Paulie to make sure he understands. "Like him." Your friend in jail? "Plans don't always work—or they always change. You have to enjoy what you're doing. Have fun. Or you're missing the point."

Paulie's brows furrowed as he met your eyes.

He feels as if...you're speaking more than about games.

"...we play to win. That's what the games purposes are for. The rewards."

"If you want high rewards, than you have to put the work in. Or in other cases," you pointed down, Paulie turning to where your finger was and brows rising. Slot machines? "You have to take a chance. It's more enjoyable that way too, actually."

"A chance? Slot machines are the worst to play, it's basically rigged for you to lose."

You stared pointedly at his pockets, where you know he only had enough chips for one more game.

"Chances may be all you got. Besides," you grinned, wide and it looked sharp as a Paulie stared with round eyes. "it's more enjoyable when everything is against you and you win anyways! Now that's fun!" You than let out a laugh, shoulders shaking as you had your arms behind your head, your marine cap not hiding your laughter as Kuroi ten'nosabaki gleamed along with Karasu in synchrony while Paulie just watched, mouth parting and cigar almost lolling out his mouth. "Shows everybody and anybody who's boss than. Also, all the money going everywhere is pretty nice to look at."

You... Paulie thought, swallowing before glancing away with cheeks slightly red. Really are crazy...

Despite your last sentence, it feels like you were talking way more than about games and gambling. Paulie wonders how many chances you've taken yourself.

Is this how you're here even now?

Because of a chance?

You recovered from your laughter, turning back towards the slot machines in thought as you looked at each one before a hand with chips came to your vision.

You turned towards Paulie, who was looking down and to the side as he had his hand out towards you.

"I got nothing else to lose anyways. Let's try out this chance of yours."

You smiled briefly before smirking, putting an arm around Paulie and ignoring the man's blush and more stutters than normal shouts as you turned him to the slot machines. You glancing around before you heard one different from the others. Sitting him down in front and saying that this was it. Paulie looked at the chips, than sighed pathetically.

Goodbye money. Hello more loan sharks.

He put the chips inside the machine, than pulled the lever once you told him now by his ear. Watching the cherries and melons pass by and oh, one seven. If he gets another one, he can play again one more time and—oh, good another one. Well, he doubts the next game will help him at all really—

"Get ready," you said, excited and basically trembling from energy behind his head and hands on his shoulders. "The most nerve wracking part of games is where you feel the world at your fingers and you might actually reach. The best sort of games though I think—" a buzzing sound popped at his ears and confetti fell atop them both as Paulie felt frozen in shock as you just laughed at his face as you leaned to see it as workers came to the two of you to help with all the Beli's coming out. "—Pft! Look at your face! What kind of friend would I be to not make sure you win? Games are fun like that, ya know!"

You, Paulie thought once more distantly as you moved to help the workers and joking to them you think he turned to a statue for someone who seems desperate for money at any cost. Really are crazy.

After the workers organized all the Beli's for you in cash form in a brief case that Paulie was carrying, they all did a half bow towards the two of as you were smiling proudly with your arms behind your head casually. Paulie seeming to stare down at the staircase as if he discovered the secret to the heavens and at a loss of what to do.

"Congratulations!" One of them said, all of them raising their heads as they smiled politely. "Good to see you win something Paulie! And with such a nice date too!" You and Paulie's eyes rounded. "You should bring your girlfriend over more if you win like that. Well...not too much. We need to make money too."

Date?! Both you and Paulie thought in tandem, cheeks slightly flushed at the words.

"Er, ah—we're not on a date," you corrected, stumbling over your words. "Or dating."

"It was just a deal." Paulie added while his eyes shifted to the side and sneakily towards you without noticing. His cheeks darkened a tad more. "W-we just happened to choose this casino."

The workers brows rose.

"Oh, my mistake."

The both of you soon left after that, the both of you walking throughout the Water City without the need of Yagara Bulls. The water in the canals next to them under the night sky gleaming and glistening mirroring the stars above. The crowd and people chattering in the cafes and shops they passed by in awkward silence as the both of you thought of the workers words.

Date? That's not a date.

Why do people always think you're on dates?

You're just hanging out. Playing a game. Walking around and talking about this or that. Doing a favor. Eating food. Laying down on a beach shore with waves lapping at your bare feet.

Nothing else.

As the both of you continued to keep silent, you let out a sudden breath in frustration. Paulie glancing down at you as you did so, watching as you kept your eyes to the side of the buildings—him on the side of the canals.

"Those people are weirdos right? Thinking we're in a date and all."

"Y-yeah," was all Paulie said as he watched you. He thinks you're...embarrassed. He's never seen you embarrassed before—you always being the one to do it to him with an innocent confidence when he would flush and yell at you to stop or let go. Your face... it looked cute. Paulie coughed, almost choking in his spit and making you glance at him as he turned his face away. He cleared his throat. "Don't mind them! People in this city are really friendly, I think you've noticed. There's people around here that'll compliment any new face they see."

Paulie thought of the foremen that would compliment you constantly in the shipyard, whether it was for your amateur work of fixing the ship or your strength that has been greatly helpful for them. Cheering or whooping easily towards you as you would just smirk or smile or say it's no big deal.

Paulie frowned, looking down at the ground as they walked and turned down a corner, away from the Main Street and people.

You kept on going, not sensing Paulie's off energy. Too busy trying to wrap your mind about this.

"I mean, it's not like ya know—a date. Cause dates always end a certain w-way...and we're definitely not."

Paulie felt like time stopped as he turned back towards your flustered expression as you stared at him.

"A..." he swallowed, heart thundering in his chest and his goggles feeling a skewed on his head. "A certain way?"

"I'm not explaining! You know what it means! At least," you squinted your eyes at him, assessing. "I think you do? You're a prude so you may not know actually."

Paulie stopped, you stopping with him in confusion. Paulie looked a little tense, his face looking tight and serious. Cigar looking as if it's on its last leg.

"I'm not a prude. How many times do I have to tell you that...?! And surely going on a date with a crazy woman like you will send me to an early grave."

You scoffed, crossing your arms as they stood in between buildings with your back facing a wall.

"Like you've been on a date before. You talking about this and dodging the question isn't helping your case at all. You get into a fit at the slightest touch or skin from me and you think that you could—"

A rope tightens.

A hand met the wall behind your head, you pausing as your eyes widened.

Paulie, with his blond slicked back hair and scruffy goatee and eyes in an odd glint, leaned his head over yours with cigar gone, speaking lowly.

"I'm no prude. Nor am I a virgin like you're implying since you keep calling me that." Paulie's face was really close, you felt the heat radiating off of him. You noticed his cheeks were slightly tinted red as he kept going while your heart thumped against your rib cage. "You're shameless and I'm trying to warn you to not just do what you do with me so easily but you're not getting it. Do you...do y-you really want me to say how dates end, (Y/N)?"

Paulie leaned his head closer and you felt his goggles touch the brim of your cap as you flushed. Paulie noting it with internal satisfaction and wonder. A few beats passed.

"A-ah...w-w-well, it obviously ends in a k-kiss," Paulie blanked as you went on, arms tight on your chest as you looked away. "Which w-we aren't going to do cause kisses are for l-love and only t-that so hope you're not getting ideas!" You turned back with a glare only to raise a brow at Paulie's poker face.

...

"You—," Paulie stopped and started again, incredulous. "You were talking about a kiss?"

You furrowed your brows.

"What else would I be talking about?"

A few beats of silence passed as Paulie felt heat move and spread from his cheeks to his neck.

Your mind clicked as you flushed.

"W-WHAT?! NO!"

Paulie lowered his head, at a loss.

"How did—why didn't you just say kiss?!"

"C-cause!"

Paulie rose his head, teeth sharp.

"Cause what?!"

"YOURE STUPID!"

"WHAT?!" Paulie backed up, lowering his hand from the wall and just smacking his face harshly. What kind of weird torture is this? Having to explain. "HOW ARE YOU ALIVE AT THIS POINT?!"

"Well, it's cause I'm STRONG! Duh!" You retorted innocently, childishly and cheeks still flushed as Paulie could only stare. "I have to get stronger of course though but you get the point—what's up with that face?!"

Paulie felt his troubled expression but he didn't care. The fact you thought it was a kiss showed Paulie your true nature despite your confidence towards him. What if he was a different type of man?

How did a crazy woman like you manage to be so innocent?!

Paulie covered his flushed face, looking away in between his fingers.

And cute.

But this is concerning! People could take advantage!

How many more guys do you just throw yourself at and not realize the possible effects?!

-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-

At once, and in different parts of the world whether in a castle, island, sea or building, different men sneezed.

And found different reasons as to why.

-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-

More days passed, and the galleon is nearly done—signifying how close you are to leaving. Days of having to deal with the others, Kaku is fine, when all the foremen including Iceburg and Kalifa would be in Blueno's bar.

Of course, you witnessed firsthand Paulie's severe problem—addiction you corrected, when the very next day for lunch he bought everyone within the bar food and unlimited drinks.

"You're going to always have loan sharks if you do this," you deadpanned at the blond who was drinking quite heartily at the bar. Blueno just serving everyone with that plastered bartender smile as you sat atop an empty table. "I think you need therapy."

It seems him winning all that money finally passed the shock and denial phase to sickening acceptance in a span of a few hours after he escorted you back to your motel due to his stubbornness of not leaving you alone for some reason.

"People are dangerous," he stressed, a new cigar lit in his mouth due to him throwing the other abused one. You looked at him oddly.

"Not you," you replied.

Paulie made a funny face at that. It reminded you of how Smoker could make a similar one with his scowling features.

Lucci was sitting at the table next to you, but with a chair obviously. Him and his weird view of manners, you'd laugh at how ridiculous it is coming from him but you've just grown to feel a mix of irritated exasperation and acceptance. Lucci took a sip from the beer Paulie bought, face apathetic as Hattori cooed.

"(Y/N) has a point, oaf. One day those men will catch you when you're off guard and handle you accordingly due to how casual you are about your massive debt."

Your face soured at him saying your name as Kaku spoke up with a calming chuckle next to Lucci, his own drink at the table.

"No need for the harshness, Lucci! Although," Kaku turned his eyes towards the drinking-pointedly-trying-to-ignore-them blond. "You should be wise about your actions, however, Paulie. You put some money aside at least for your savings...right?"

"Shut up!" Paulie said through a slur, clearly already getting close to done as you watched in disbelief. "I get to decide what to do with my money and if I want to buy everyone drinks and food than I will! Any more ungratefulness will get tied up and kicked out by me!"

"Ah," Kaku's smile waned in realization. "So that's a no."

Kalifa, sitting gracefully at the bar counter with her clipboard, fixed her glasses.

"That would be sexual harassment."

"I/HE WASNT TALKING ABOUT YOU!" You and Paulie shouted in sync.

"If it makes you feel any better," Iceburg said, swirling his shot of whiskey in hand as he sat next to Kalifa. You wonder if Lucci glancing at the mayor's hand at the action was out of longing. "I am grateful for your giving nature, Paulie."

"Thank you!" Paulie said as he took a gulp of his mug.

You sweatdropped.

"Aren't you a mayor and can afford your own?"

"ICEBURG-SAN HAS BIG PLANS!" Tilestone defended. His mug looking impossibly tiny between his hands, it was as if it was for a doll more than a man. "LOOK WHAT HE'S ALREADY DONE IN FIVE YEARS!"

Lulu nodded, fixing his messy spike on the top of his head only to come out on the side.

"Men of power should save. Or greed will overtake."

The foremen all nodded solemnly, seriously. As if no one has heard wiser words of wisdom.

You watched as Iceburg finished his shot, and asking for another as Blueno easily obliged. The mayor of Water 7 not finding it important enough that maybe he shouldn't be drinking so heavily so early in the day when he still has work.

You stared at him flatly.

"You're just saving for a vacation aren't you?"

Iceburg only smiled as he took another sip of his whiskey.

"Every mayor needs a nice area to relax quietly and not worry for work for once."

"You do that every day."

"Do I?"

At that, you couldn't help but laugh. Iceburg sure was a character, you certainly don't blame him for not wanting to do paperwork. He's just very different from other island leaders you've met due to that. Eventually the tale of how Paulie won the money came and you mentioned they did the deal yesterday and you just helped him out a bit.

You and Paulie took a sip out of your drinks, you water and his beer, respectively.

Iceburg glanced at Paulie with a rose brow as you felt Lucci's daggers for eyes on you, Kaku glancing between you and the blond.

"I didn't know you two planned a date," Iceburg said easily.

You and Paulie, respectively, spat out your drinks as the both of you choked. Lucci's brow twitching in disgust as some landed on him with Hattori merely shaking his feathers. Kaku hid an amused smile behind his fist while Kalifa and Blueno shared a secret glance.

Both of you faced Iceburg, close to his face and heated cheek to flushed cheek as you both leaned in.

"IT WASN'T A DATE!"

"What a strong reaction," Iceburg mused, and sounding like he finds this funny. Paulie glared at his friend and superior in betrayal. "Did something happen?"

If possible, both of your faces turned more heated in front of Iceburg. He's sure if he put his hands out in front of their faces, the affect would be similar to being close to a fire or furnace.

Lucci's hand on his mug was tight as he glanced between the flustered foreman to the oblivious scum, analyzing before relaxing his grip and scoffing in his mind. As if that oaf would do anything. And you just get embarrassed easily.

Kaku watched and sensed as the aura around Lucci receded, curious. The leopard Zoan isn't threatened again. Despite what happened and you and Paulie stuttering are the other foremen's teasing before you finally said dates are only dates after a kiss. Ah, Kaku thought, slight heat in his cheeks from your loud proclamation as Paulie palmed his face as the foremen teased Paulie fully now. The blond threatening to cut off their refills with them quickly straightening and shutting up after that. Is that why? But that doesn't explain how he looked when (Y/N) fought Paulie. What exactly makes you angry, Lucci?

Kaku doesn't know why he's so curious, maybe due to how his chest warms or beats at the grins or smiles you would give him as he's explaining a ship parts mechanism. Or when you're close and put an arm around him despite how he's trying to put distance—it seems you're pointedly ignoring the line he doesn't want to cross.

All Kaku knows is this, Lucci should actually talk and be clear with you before someone takes you away.

And Kaku, he feels like he's close to doing just that. Despite how you seem to be unaffected and treat him like a kid.

But...how?

He didn't think much on it, only for you to wish to go with him to assess a ship. Eager to jump and fly with the Mountain Wind.

"It seems like a fun ride!" Was all you said with an eager grin that looked more like a smirk from how pointed it looked and Kaku didn't think it was a problem.

You and him dashing and leaping off the edge of the shipyard, wind under their clothes and tickling their cheeks as you kept laughing and Kaku couldn't help but join you as they free fell. Kaku's brows furrowing slightly when you would at times get too close to the ground, worried about you landing in a splat, only for you to use Geppo the very last second.

You noticed when they landed to where the customer's ship was, you teasing Kaku with a smirk.

"Don't look so scared, Kaku! I just like really enjoy free falling to the last second. You get more out of it that way." You moved and tapped with the back of your knuckles twice against Kaku's forehead as he blinked. "And ya gotta relax in that area. Already speak old, don't gotta look too old too so early."

Kaku couldn't help but release a chuckle, scratching his nose when you lowered your hand.

"Hai, hai, (Y/N)-san."

"You and the '-san'—"

"Who are you?!" You heard a sword being drawn, the both of you turning towards the ship to see the pirates pointing their weapons at the two of you. "Scram! We won't hesitate to attack if you get any closer."

"Yeah! We're pirates so don't underestimate us!"

You leaned towards Kaku, whispering.

"The Captain was the one that went ahead to the dock, right?"

Kaku nodded, taking a step and saying he was sent by Galley La to assess the ship only for a shot to ring out.

You and Kaku's shadowed eyes under their caps stared at the new hole in the ground.

"Yeah right! Our captain just left not that long ago to the docks!"

"Get lost before we aim somewhere where you won't move again!"

"Yeah, do you think we're idiots?"

"At this rate," you spoke up, shrugging a shoulder. "Yeah."

Their faces got an interesting shade of red as well as looking constipated as Kaku called your name in reprimand. You raising a brow.

"What? They are." Karasu sang as you took him out, thirsty as you deflected a bullet as your face formed into a scary thing with lips curved. The pirate who shot felt the air shift as he paled. Kaku had his chisels out in each hand, also blocked a shot with shadowed eyes under his Galley La cap. "Hah? You guys are gonna regret it now. So much for fixing your ship. Should've stuck with fixing those faces of yours first before coming here."

"Y-you—you bitch! You—!" Whatever he was going to say, it got stopped with a chisel to his face. The pirate knocked out as the others exclaimed wildly and turning their angry gazes to Kaku now, who already had another chisel in hand calmly with one lone eye staring evenly.

"One should be careful how you speak. (Y/N)—san shouldn't be referred to as such. Your three inched tongue will now create a six foot deep grave."

Woah, you don't think you've seen an irritated Kaku before. That's new!

The pirates stood still before attacking and you and Kaku quickly finished them off—Karasu deadly and thrumming in your hands as if in irritation too. They soon had a pile of unconscious bodies atop one another on the ship.

You sheathed Karasu, wiping your hands as you turned towards the frowning Kaku. Wonder what he's thinking about?

"You know," Kaku glanced at you as you approached him with your arms behind your back as you grinned, teasing. "I think the proverb you meant ends with 'it can kill a man six feet high' instead of six feet down."

Kaku knitted his brows, than looked down.

"I felt like I remembered it wrong."

"Pfft! Who cares? If makes more sense to me anyways. Where's the man going to go six feet high? Flying?" Kaku cracked a smile at that and you happily pointed it out, leaning towards him as he blinked and leaned back. "There we go! Always so serious, stick with how you smile while you're here, Kaku."

Kaku didn't seem to know how to respond, instead turning back to the bodies and saying they should head back to tell the others what happened. Only for your arm to go around his shoulder, you tugging his head down due to the action because of your shorter stature compared to him.

"Oh come on!" You smiled, wide and bright as Kaku looked at your face close to his. "They can wait! Let's keep diving around and relax a bit! We'll tell them when we come back."

"But...the others—"

"I'm starting to think if you're the older one," Kaku blinked, eyes brightening at your words. Weird. "You definitely act like it. But come on, let's have some fun! I know you like it, Mountain Wind." You jostled him a bit at the last words, as if it would help him to say yes.

He still looked unsure and your smile wavered.

"Come on, it's been awhile—"

"Okay."

Your eyes rounded, seeing Kaku doing a small smile as he stared at you only for his eyes to widen when you did a close eyed smile. Shaking him violently as you did so with a laugh, than just as quickly grabbed his hand. Kaku's round eyes, if possible, rounded more.

"Let's go! To the top of the island than! Where all the water comes out!"

You were referring to the center where it mimicked a water fountain in how it spouted water. You giving a quick tug to Kaku before letting go and quickly telling him for them to leave. Kaku clenched the hand you grabbed, looking down at it before quickly following after you.

You jumping and dashing from building to building, whether with the use of Geppo or just running atop roofs momentarily only to leap down made your blood sing and stomach ticklish as you laughed.

Working hands creating a house at sea.

And you feel like Kaku is enjoying it too.

As the both of you jumped and leaped, you spotted a green painted house—familiar.

You have to stop by when you can. Alone and away.

You have to thank.

Eventually, the two of you did reach the top—the highest point of the city and the both of you sat next to one another. Your legs over the edge of the ledge and swinging as you leaned back with your hands, content.

Kaku looked the same, staring down below at the city with elbows against his knees.

"You know," You glanced at the relaxed Kaku as he stared down at the city he's lived for the past five years. "My dream was to build ships one day. The idea of creating something out of just some wood yet be a force where it can't be laughed at...it intrigued me. Or no, that's not quite right." Kaku stopped, chuckling as his gaze moved towards where the shipyards could faintly be seen. You didn't take your eyes away from Kaku's face, fixated at his faraway smile. "I just loved it. How different each one could be, from the masts to the figureheads down to the very heart of the ship—the keel. I loved it and wanted to make ships ever since I was a kid."

"...you had a model ship collection," Kaku blinked, glancing at your face that had a smile that was distant, recalling as you glanced away. "I remember I wanted you to show it to me one day."

"You never did tell me how you knew," Kaku pointed out, at ease. You either always made him relaxed or confused due to what you would do all those years ago. Even now.

Especially now.

Your smile lifted a tad more.

"I was collecting you for a mission. Went in your room to see you weren't there only to see you hide in the corner a bunch of ship in the bottles. Not quite under your bed either," you teased lightly.

Kaku flushed, embarrassed as he scratched his nose and looked to the side.

"Ahhh...I must have been in a rush."

It was silent for a few moments, the wind crisp as it moved through the both of you due to the high altitude. A comfortable silence too. It made you nostalgic.

Some of the most interesting clear memories you have is when you, for once, were silent. And those who you could be quiet with.

It took a lot to reach to this point.

You let the silence linger a little longer, before peering up at Kaku's calm expression.

"This must be your favorite mission." Kaku stilled, smile fading as his eyes darted towards you and you quickly went on. "Hey, it's okay. You're lucky you know."

Kaku rose a brow at you, doubtful.

"How so?"

You smiled softly, almost enviously as you turned away. Kaku felt his mouth dry as he stared.

"You have your dream now. You're living it. I still have to do mine."

-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-

As Kaku stared, tongue feeling thick and his heart skipping a beat, he feels like he knows what to do.

They eventually going back and telling everyone what happened with you attacking the now yelling Paulie when he asked you if you were alright and you laughing as you let him go as he turned away with a flush. Kaku caught Lucci's questioning glance. His eyes hardening as Lucci's brow rose, before seeming to lightly scoff and turn away—in dismissal.

Kaku thought of the day Lucci boldly and mercilessly laid his claim over you—how the leopard Zoan would be the only one to take you in or fight you and no one else.

Kaku feels as if Lucci should've said more, but Kaku is aware that it was never the dark man's style.

Too bad than, cause you don't seem to see Kaku as a mere kid anymore. So maybe...just maybe, even after this mission...he can take a chance. Even if he's an assassin.

His chest twisted in doubt—the fight of his true personality and assassin persona within.

But it's just...

You're just too...everything.

-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-

At a makeshift base a little ways off the shores of Rocky Island, it stood quietly. With no hustle and bustle, no sudden dance parties or any use of confetti bombs needed.

No. Because it's tea time which means quiet time, the residents inside have to save money and avoid the shipyards at all costs. Because that's the smart thing to do.

The noise of tea being noisily slurped rang inside. The teacup was set down, and than the table was flipped over out of impatience. Clattering as others turned to see their aniki dining the self proclaimed tea time. That Aniki set of course. 

"I'm getting antsy, YOW!"

"Franky—nii, you said we can't! I think they're almost done so that pirate will soon leave!"

"Y-Yeah! We can't have a repeat! It's crazy...!"

A Franky Family member shuddered in remembrance along with four others.

"The fact she could attack us in her sleep! And almost killing us too!"

"I don't think she even noticed she got attacked..."

"That first day when she arrived, we should've double checked the wanted posters I tell you! We could've actually gotten killed for trying to tear apart her raft for parts!"

"It just looked so nice...it reminded us of the kind of work you do, aniki!"

"Who cares?!" Aniki—or in other words, Franky shouted, utterly bored out of his mind. He needs this Silver Blood out of there so he can do his monthly Franky SUPER Dance to the many fans within Water 7. "I just want to finally have a party again and gather up the money we need to finally get the superrrrrr Adam Wood!"

"We use the money for the parties, Aniki!"

"Yeah, that's why we haven't gotten it yet."

Franky lowered his sunglasses on his nose.

"But than we wouldn't have the booze and food for the parties!"

A beat passed.

"That's true!"

"Aniki always knows what's best!"

"I really want some beer now though, Blueno's has the best."

Franky turned away, grin falling as he thought.

He really hopes that Silver Blood leaves soon, they've been having to tread carefully due to the rumors you have. Didn't help you got close to those foremen and Bakaberg, you might snap.

Although...he does it find it super weird his brothers mentioned your apparently small raft appeared like his work. But that can't be right. He never built a raft. Only fixed one up, and it wasn't for you.

He wonders how that woman is doing, hopefully not crashing into a wave somehow with the tracks right there.

.

.

.

Edited 07/23/21

This entire chapter is original although I did add elements from Farewell Party which I shall edit now IMMEDIATELY to fix the discrepancies.

Added Paulie and Kaku scenes—because they're cute and I love them. 💗

And felt the need to show more how exactly one can fall for one Silver Blood (Y/N).

Still not done with the Water 7 Arc, I'll keep on editing as I go! My brain is just going completely wild! Hope you guys enjoy!

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**FANART CORNER**

Chapter Text

Apparently some pirates don't learn, but you didn't have to lend a hand in beatings like what you did with Kaku. The Galley La men you learned were capable with the strength they had. Tilestone would make sure no one would forget it either.

The days would blur with everyone, you still feeling odd when Lucci called your name and you still jumping Paulie at times. No matter what he did that night, his reactions are still funny and the same. Maybe even funnier because sometimes he would grab your shoulders and push you back, yelling at you to stop doing this and you can't be this shameless with anyone.

You don't know why everybody keeps saying that...not the shameless part. That's new.

Kaku seeming to go back to how he was before, less distant and drawing you closer if needed when he had to point something out to you for the ship. He even dropped the -san! Which made you happy, you really don't like having -san at the end of your name. Too distant and formal.

Of course you would call out Iceburg when needed, being met with a kick to the face you would dodge or block by Kalifa as you just smirked as you said she had to be quicker than that with Kalifa just huffing and turning away. While saying such a joke is sexual harassment. Making your brows knit together as the foremen froze then broke into surprised laughter as you stated slowly you didn't make a joke. Almost in sync, Kaku, Paulie, and Lucci stated for you to not worry about it.

The fact that Lucci said it just made you even more curious.

You still looked at his beer oddly when they went to Blueno's. It's just...too weird.

You felt him doing the same to you whenever you would share a story to the others.

"You...rode a Sea King?"

"Well," you leaned a hand to your cheek, eyes gleaming. "Basically. I more like hitched a ride. Managed to tie a rope to one of its horns or fin things and just rode like a breeze."

"Really?" Paulie looked at you, doubtful.

"...not exactly a breeze but close enough." You released a laugh than, short. "Not close enough either. It threw me off hard and I basically made a dent to this island's pier. Having a bunch of people over me wondering how I basically just teleported."

"Coo! You sound like you were close to death. Not many could land unscathed." Lucci stared at you, assessing. Must be concerned since you said only he can take your life or whatever he decides.

You waved a hand dismissively.

"That's not the closest I've been to dying at all."

"That's not something to be proud of, (Y/N)." Kaku said, smile faltering.

"Not exactly proud, but hey. The seas are dangerous. I just have to make sure I catch up to that level. Anyways, there was this other time when there were red bananas that tasted like vanilla—"

The World Government would come by, you having to hide as the agents they sent to Iceburg to talk about whatever they need from making you bored until they left.

You think one of the funniest things though, was when you were walking towards the shipyard to be ready for the day. Only to hear a racket coming from the high bridge above you, noting that Paulie was being chased by loan sharks.

If he saved that money he won, he wouldn't be in this mess.

Nonetheless, when you spotted them surround Paulie on both sides of the bridge. You decided to help out.

Of course, as anyone would. By using Soryu to suddenly appear, making Paulie squawk in shock—only to choke as you grabbed his shirt and using Geppo to get out of there.

The loan sharks staring dumbly as you practically flew away with their quarry.

"L-let go of me—fgh!" You looked down to your hands to see Paulie nearly choke on his cigar by swallowing it. You adjusted your hold, carrying him now in both your arms as you smirked down at him as Paulie froze.

"Is this better?" You ask the man, who is in a bridal carry. And staring up at you as your (e/c) hair whipped about your face due to the wind. As if he was a damsel and you were the confident hero.

"NO! ITS NOT! S—STOP LAUGHING!" Paulie stuttered and keeping his hands to himself, crossed even though you said it's best if he holds you or else he'll fall. " I rather die than let the others see me like this!"

"Oh, come on. I won't drop you in front of everybody. Just trust me and hold on to me, yeah?"

He eventually did, while muttering and cursing something about you being shameless and what he's doing.

You don't mention the bridal carry event. Paulie seems to jump when someone asks him to carry something after that though. As if they knew.

It has been three weeks since you got here, and you were due to leave tomorrow. The ship you broke has already been fixed, more quickly then before thanks to your strength. You even helped a little more just for the heck of it, you grew to love the people here after all. Now though, you just wanted to get out. But...

You'll miss them. And you guessed the Galley-La Company would miss you too, because they all had a party for you for you leaving and paying off your debt. Everyone was laughing, it was held in Blueno's Bar(sadly, but you didn't really mind).

Iceburg came up towards you, you sitting at the bar counter as he gave his thanks.

"Thank you, Silver Blood (Y/N). You were truly a great help. You even caused the troublesome ship dismantler's to back off."

A question mark appeared over your head at his last statement, but you nonetheless nodded with a smile and said that you just wanted to help them any way you could. He patted your shoulder in thanks, and you watched him walk away to another part of the bar by Kalifa, you watching silently as your stomach slightly churned at what your mind was thinking. Paulie then came towards you, with him rubbing the back of his neck as he approached and sat by you in the bar counter taking the seat to the left.

"Hey Paulie." You greeted with a smile.

Paulie nodded and gave his own greeting, giving a small smile of his own.

"You know, it'll be odd without you around. Everyone seems to have grown a liking to you. You sure you don't want to stay until after Aqua Laguna?"

You glanced around at the bar, seeing smiling faces and laughter echoing throughout the bar as Bleuno served people left and right. Tilestone looked like he was holding back manly tears as Lulu patted his large back in sympathy.

You looked back at him and said you would miss them too, but you're a pirate.

"I'll be fine. The storm doesn't look too close yet. The sea beckons me back, and as a pirate, I gotta heed it ya know? Pirates...are the freest." You said with a laugh, similar to the one who told you that did except you didn't have red hair, looking towards him only to see a melancholy Paulie.

Paulie looked at his glass of beer in his hand, as he gave out a small  "Yeah." It was silent for a moment until you put a hand on his shoulder, immediately making him look up at you and your gentle smile.

"I'll try to visit. I'm not leaving forever you know." You said, slightly shoving his shoulder as you put your hand back down. Paulie smiled and said "Alright". He quickly glanced down and saw your 'exposed legs' and immediately went to his rant again.

"Put some normal pants on woman!" He yelled,  you just shoved him hard as you said that he's the only one thinking that. You felt another presence on your right, seeing it was a grinning Kaku.

"Quite a party huh, (Y/N)? You enjoying it?" The long nosed man asked as you smiled, swirling your drink in your hand.

"Yeah, it's been fun. Gonna miss everyone though. You guys have been hilarious."

"Hey! Don't ignore me woman!" You rolled your eyes as Paulie drifted his gaze to Kaku.

"Oi, Kaku, isn't what (Y/N)'s wearing revealing?" Kaku gave you a once over and was about to reply as you glanced at Paulie, giving him a deadpan.

Really? Like Kaku is going to say—

"No. It isn't revealing enough." The man said with a teasing grin, laughing.

Both Paulie and you looked at him with wide eyes.

Did...did Kaku just flirt with you?

You slightly blushed at how he said it so easily with a grin and a laugh, and you weren't used to such treatment as well.

Well, treatment that doesn't involve being trapped by a large body trying to keep you still.

"Pervert!"  Paulie yelled in your ear, basically making your ears ring by how loud he said it while Kaku just laughed.

"From how you blush from so little skin, aren't you the pervert?" Paulie grew red at that, and it made (Y/N) laugh along with Kaku.

"What?" You began with a hand to your chest,"I never realized Paulie. I always thought that you were just a prude. Seems I was wrong." You than paused, finger to your chin in thought. Looking back at when they went out to the casino, you slightly flushing. "Although...I...I guess that explains something." His face darkened once again, looking like a tomato.

"I-I-I'm no prude you assholes!" Paulie stopped, seeming to catch your last sentence as he turned back towards you. "Wh—WHAT ARE YOU THINKING?!"

Both you and Kaku laughed out loud. Kaku commented that weren't you going to drink, you replying that you can't drink alcohol. It would be a bad idea, and you asked for water but you got sake instead.

"Do you want it?"Kaku shook his head no and when you offered to give it to Paulie, a tan arm came from behind and grabbed your glass. Revealing Lucci, who drank the sake gently with his dark eyes on yours. When he finished his sip, he glanced at Kaku, who immediately offered his seat with a smile and moved over one. Allowing Lucci to sit next to you, Hattori talking for him as their bodies sat close together. Your eye twitched when you noticed he was looking at your still slightly red ear. He bit it hard. His lips twitched up a little at your expression, to which he quickly hid it with a sip of your drink.

The party ended, and nothing seemed to have happened. No plans of trying to stop you from leaving. Nothing.

You were beginning to wonder if they were really going to let you go without a fight.

But you could care less. It would be less trouble, and they wouldn't want their covers to be blown when they all of a sudden attack you.

-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-

Later that night, you visited a house the color of grass and knocked.

The door clicked and the smell of alcohol immediately met your now accustomed nostrils as you smiled at the owner, who immediately laughed at seeing you with a swig to her bottle.

"Nagagaga! Finally decided to come have you? Wondering if you even would and forgot about little ol' me."

Your smile widened as you eyes gleamed.

"Told ya I'm not forgetting," The old woman hummed at that, motioning for you to come in and you did as she spoke that hearing from Iceburg about you has been amusing. You were about to reply only to stop when you heard little stomps coming down the stairs, as well as Myah's! The child stopping as she stared up at you with a curious large smile as the cat looking bunny did the same, it's nose twitching as you grinned, spreading your arms. "Hey Chimney! Long time no see. Hope you're not getting into trouble and playing tag with weirdos."

"Who are you?" Chimney bluntly asked.

A few beats passed before your arms fell down along with your head.

"Nagagaga! You can't blame the girl, she barely knew how to talk when you came." You lifted your head, saying you know but it still hurt. Kokoro moved towards Chimney and put a hand on the young girl's shoulder who was staring up at you. You think it was you. You think her eyes was sparkling mischievously at your buster sword behind you. "Chimney, this is (Y/N). She helped you out when you were younger. As well as Gonbe. Oh, look at that, Gonbe might remember you, young girl."

As she spoke, Gonbe drew closer to you in its little hops. You immediately squatting and moving to pet it, it immediately rubbing its head for you to keep petting and made happy bunny noises as it smiled wide similar to its owner.

"Heh, at least you remember me lil bunny."

"Gonbe is a cat," Chimney immediately wrongly corrected.

You sweatdropped.

"You still think that, huh? You need to get your eyes checked if you still think Gonbe is a cat."

"I think you're just a weird lady," Chimney replied, drawing near you as you blinked and laughed slightly at her bluntness. She's not quite wrong there. Her eyes went towards your buster sword, her making noises of awe. "You have a big sword! You probably killed a lot of people with it."

"Still bloodthirsty aren't you?" You commented, raising an eyebrow as Chimney stared up at the sword. You huffing  out your nose in amusement before straightening, releasing your buster sword and keeping it to the side. Chimney gasping excitedly with her never wavering smile. "Kuroi ten'nosabaki knows what to cut. You can touch him if ya want. Of course...if you're brave enough."

Chimney didn't think much and just touched all over the gleaming buster sword, looking at the half moon indentation close to the tip and observing out loud it's really shiny despite it being black. Your chest nearly puffing out in pride at that.

Yeah, you got a good sword.

Karasu glinted on your hip, you immediately patting the hilt.

Karasu is a good sword too of course.

After the show and tell, Kokoro made some drinks. Including (fav. night drink) which you easily finished.

"So, young girl—or is it young woman now? You've changed I see."

You paused from lifting your arm up and down due to Chimney wanting to see how strong you are to lift a buster sword, Chimney saying excitedly "Again, again! And faster!" while Gonbe did a myah, attached to it's owner's back for the small ride. You obliged as you answered with a twitch of the lips.

"Ya think so? Crazy how long it's been...I see you're still here and kicking about. Not getting forgetful now, are you?"

"Nagagaga! Me? How could I?" Kokoro took a sip of her drink, green eyes knowing towards you with that large cheeks wrinkling grin. "No, I rather keep some thing's alive. The world isn't quite done with me yet. And it looks like...you're not done with it yourself."

Your lips curved into a half grin.

"I got much to do. Titles like the one I want ain't easy."

"Young girl," Kokoro said, eyes crinkling with a chuckle. "Any title isn't. You know the risks better now I hear. You're not going to be like Tom are you?"

The siren wails at the lost friend.

Your lips straightened, stopping from moving your arms again as Chimney silently stared and didn't mind when you put her down. You held the brim of your cap, bright (e/c) staring as your lips tilted.

"Dreams come with risks." Was all you said before putting a sympathetic hand on Kokoro's squeezing once before turning towards Chimney and asking if she wants a ride.

Chimney immediately saying yes with Gonbe paling as if in remembrance. The bunny unable to reject for you immediately grabbed the both of them after Kokoro gave the okay and exiting. Carrying them tightly before using Geppo as Chimney now laughed more than screamed and cried, Gonbe was still crying though.

Kokoro was outside, hand loose on the bottle as she stared amused at how you made Chimney feel like she was flying when you held her as the child spread her arms wide as if she was hero from those comics in the newspapers. Gonbe hanging on for fear life to Chimney's shirt as you kicked in the air this way and that, sometimes even free falling.

Your eyes widening when Chimney let out a giggled, "Big Lady—nee—san is fun! Go higher and faster!" Does she remember? You thought she did until she mentioned you're still weird only for you to gain hope again that you need to teach her this so they can play tag in the air, with you replying with a knowing grin that they can play normal tag if she wants which Chimney immediately agreed to as Kokoro watched. And thought.

Watch yourself, young girl. Kokoro took a heavy swig, memories of Tom laughing with his bickering workers that were more like brothers and Tom a father. Those who breathe out laughter like that always end up choking when the air stops. Let's see where you go after you accomplish that dream.

You and Chimney and Gonbe played for a few minutes before you once again had to leave, rubbing in between Chimney's pigtails with a grin as a goodbye as Chimney asked if you'll come again.

"Ya, next time we'll do hide and seek." Chimney nodded eagerly and ran around you excitedly while repeating hide and seek as Gonbe hopped after her.

You turning towards Kokoro and having your hand out.

"Thank you. You helped a lot when I started in this journey. I don't know how I would've gotten away if it wasn't for you."

Kokoro merely laughed, your brow raising as Kokoro shook your hand.

"Young girl, you would have found a way I'm sure."

You grinned cheekily.

"Probably. But thanks anyways."

You left with a wave, going to sleep at the motel you rented.

Thinking to yourself, you really have a list of people you need to thank. For different reasons. You fell asleep before you could go past the first one.

-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-

The next day, you walked towards Dock One to make your final goodbyes with everyone. Staring all around you with a distracted smile, the bustle in the street and in the water with the Yagara Bulls. You waving at some of the locals who recognized you due to you being with the shipwrights the past few weeks and being in Blueno's Bar so often.

One even calling to you from their food stand, famous for their Mizu Mizu Meat/Vegetable kebabs. Your stomach rumbled just as your mouth watered.

You haven't had a chance to eat the ones in Water 7, too busy and you were fine with what you ate with everyone. So of course you bought three meat/veggie kebabs and continued going on your merry way, chewing and eating way too fast than what a normal person should.

You think someone almost fainted when you took the whole stick in your mouth until the residue was gone as you walked.

Mmmm! This is so good! They're different from the ones in Alabasta. You frowned, pausing from chewing as you looked at the sticks. Alabasta's were filled with spices while Water 7's relied on the tenderness and flavor from the meat/veggie alone due to his special their food is in the island. You remember your favorite stand in Alabasta—Drezol's that closed out of the blue for some reason. The guy must've been giving too much discounts, he did give you a lot each time you went. Crocodile never seemed curious to try. Too uppity. You stared at the kebab for a few more moments. ...whatever. I have no reason to go back to Alabasta anymore. I'll just find somewhere else...

You continued chewing, and took a huge bite and decided to focus on that instead of stupid things. Cause thinking of stupid things and people and memories get you nowhere.

You turned the corner of the street, swallowing harshly when you thought that maybe some of those things get you somewhere.

History to be revered. Blossoms dancing.

Your eyes widened as you looked up, meeting surprised blue eyes as well as innocent brown ones.

I've been wanting to meet you.

"(Y/N)?!" Chopper called cutely in his deer form, running up to you in greeting as you stared at the woman before you with lips parted. "What a coincidence! You're here at this island too? We landed not that long ago. We're trying to find someone to fix our ship, Merry and oh—why are you looking at each other?" Chopper's neck craned up to you than towards the gently amused Robin back and forth. "Oh! (Y/N)! This is Robin! She's in our crew now and she's pretty smart and cool!"

You were alone too.

You closed your mouth, tilting your head towards Chopper but keeping your eyes towards Nico Robin—the one who survived and you felt but never saw all those times in Alabasta.

"Oh? You guys must be pretty lucky to have someone like her around."

We're the same age.

Chopper nodded strongly, eyes practically gleaming as he looked towards Robin. Robin's mouth turning up into a smile at your words, her eyes glancing at the sticks in her hands and her calm smile tilting more at that. You blinked.

You always felt...

"Yeah! We're shopping right now for books because we both like reading. Not everybody in the ship really does. Nami sticks to just looking at past maps and Usopp likes reading about how to make something." Chopper than blinked up at you, tilting his deer head at you. "What made you come here? Do you need someone to fix your boat too?"

You turned away from Robin's gleaming humored eyes that seemed a little too knowing and told Chopper about your situation and how you're leaving today since you fixed everything up now.

"My, it's nice to formally meet you—Ex-Marine Silver Blood (Y/N)." Robin said as she stood with her hand to her strap bag, eyes the color of the sea glittering at you as you turned back towards the one who knew too much yet too little. "I always wanted to introduce myself but it was a little difficult to do. Your reputation precedes you."

You blinked at her melodious voice as Chopper looked at Robin in confusion before your eyes widened. A memory of an event at a casino years ago that you unluckily participated in—the one who helped you with the dress you definitely didn't pick out with a mask hiding their face as they prepared you.

"Y-you!" You pointed animatedly as Robin just serenely smiled. "That was you?! What—I didn't even realize. You felt weird—" Robin's brows slightly knitted but you kept going, "—when that was happening. And how did I not realize it was you! Wait, why would he even risk that when he knew that if I saw you I would realize sooner what he was doing?!"

Chopper was lost now, just staring between you two as he asked in quiet confusion that you two know each other.

Robin hid a giggle behind her hand, making you blink twice at the sound.

"I believe he was confident with the use of masks in the party and your obvious confusion about your attire, you wouldn't notice."

"Hah?! Does he think I'm stupid or something?!"

"On the contrary," Robin said, tone amused. "He was concerned about your sharp observations. I would say that our common associate decided to take a calculated risk. Fairly common risks as well. Although...he's not really an associate to you, right Gin Chi?"

You don't know why, but the way she seemed to hint at something made you flush. You turned your head away, taking a huge bite from your kebab as Robin observed you, your turned head not hiding your frown as you stared down at your food.

"Not to your tastes?" You turned back towards her as she continued, pointing at your kebab. "You liked the other one better. I would like to inform you regretfully that your favorite place was closed down due to him." Robin didn't sound like she was regretful but your jaw dropped all the same.

She's talking about Drezol's?!

"Why the hell would he close a little vendor down?! He doesn't even like these things so why would he interact with something he has no interest in?!" You know Crocodile won't interact with subjects he has no interest in, at all. It gives them attention and he rather not give that. Drama Queen. "That doesn't make any sense! He knew it was my favorite!"

You'll kill that man!

"I believe the problem was," Robin said easily, finger to her lips. Noting your last statement of Crocodile knowing it was your favorite and couldn't possibly touch it to herself. "The vendor may have enjoyed your attention too much."

"What? What does that even mean?"

Robin for some reason, giggled again. She sees that your oblivious nature is much more obvious and humoring in person. The fact that you didn't push Crocodile to the brink of exasperation and push you away...it just made Robin's smile turn up more. As well as the other actions and words the man will do or say, believing to be subtle.

When Chopper remained confused, you explained briefly about the connection that since you both knew Crocodile but never seen each other but knew of the other. Chopper ooing at you and nodding in understanding, before Robin pointed at Chopper towards the masks at a display. The ones for the festival at San Faldo happening, Chopper going up towards it and leaving the two of you for a moment.

You glanced at Robin behind your cap, assessing what she did as she met your gaze and gave you a closed eye smile. It didn't reach her eyes though.

Leave to not be left.

You always felt...sad.

"Are you happy?" You asked.

Robin opened her eyes, brows raising at your question. You turned your head up so both your eyes were shown as you stared.

"I felt a lot of things from you throughout the years. And what happened when Luffy showed that him a lesson. I..." you stopped, turning your eyes away as Robin observed you and took note of your words. "...I get glimpses of certain things from people. Emotions. Maybe a memory but generally an emotion behind a memory. Some jump out more than others...it's hard to look through some too because they hide it so well. But yours..." you met her curious gaze, quiet. "...I don't know why but, maybe I do, but you...you always felt powerfully even though you came out quiet. You...I was at HQ when it happened."

Robin's eyes widened before darkening, you didn't have to explain what. Her hand clenched against the strap of her bag as you went on.

"I...I didn't understand. Why they called you a demon when you were a kid like me." You let out a bitter chuckle, looking down as you pocketed your hands and tapped the tip of your boot repeatedly. "Or maybe I did too well. I just got lucky. I wasn't alone, not anymore. But you..." you looked back up at Robin who looked tense but you had to keep going cause you have to know. "...you were alone. For a long time. Because of shitheads and idiots and dicks who can't think for themselves. But you're with Luffy now, you're with the Straw Hats." Robin's eyes widened as you ended it. "So, are you happy? You're not alone anymore."

Robin was staring at you, her mouth parted as you waited the answer.

She's not alone anymore. Even with people chasing her, the risk of powerful people chasing her, she's with them.

Does she still have fear? Is she afraid?

But most importantly, is she happy with this?

You want to know. You have to.

Because if she is than...

Robin looked down, face shadowed than towards Chopper who came back and spoke about all the different masks excitedly with Robin explaining after swallowing the uses of the masks. Chopper calling Robin amazing at her knowledge and you spotted Robin's lips genuinely quirk up at the compliment and her eyes softening.

Ah. She might be.

Robin turned her eyes towards you, lips back to being calm.

"I'll tell you when I am to give a free answer, Silver Blood. But thank you for asking. You always seemed kind. Despite your," Robin cleared her throat as you tilted your head, "bold words to put it lightly."

"Uhhhh...thanks?"

Robin smiled, it looking like it met her eyes this time, and you soon left the two, Chopper saying that Luffy went to get shipwrights so maybe you'll see him before you leave. You waved the doctor who'll cure any disease and the one who can read a dead language in goodbye as they did the same before turning back to your original destination.

You looked at your last kebab in thought as you strolled leisurely before sighing.

"Man...you're pretty great and all but...gosh dang it! I'll kill that reptile!"

If people turned towards you as if you were having a hallucination, you didn't care. Nor that you were chewing quite loudly in irritation, passerby's looking on in disgust when a stray piece would fly out as they quickly dodged in horror.

-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-

Maybe I don't have to pretend anymore.

-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-

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Edited 07/28/21

Added a few little scenes. Always wanted Robin and Silver Blood to interact—in a lot of ways, they're similar. Despite how different they are personality wise.

Going to keep making little or big edits from here on out! Hope you enjoyed! 💗

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**FANART CORNER**

Chapter Text

When you arrived to Dock One, it was when a pile of what seemed to be like Pirates injured and groaning on the floor as you walked up. The pirates blocking from going further in.

You asked a passing foremen, who's eyes brightened at seeing you once more.

"Why, if it isn't (Y/N)! Can't get enough of us can you?" You smiled at the man's tease, him pausing from moving the log on his shoulder to stare down at the pile in disdain. "Idiots thought they can escape their pay from us. Ha! As if we craftsman take any crap like that laying down! If you want to see everybody though, you can try the back entrance since these bodies are in the way."

"Nah," you said, nonchalantly walking on the bodies as one groaned loudly and making other foremen turn their heads at the irritating sound only to see what you were doing. "This is fine. If they wanna be trash, let them commit fully."

"How ruthless!" The foremen said with wide eyes as you blinked, stopping at the captain's body and pointing at your chest with a small pout.

"Eh? That's not nice."

"YOU ARENT EITHER!" They replied loudly, but with smiles and laughter as you just scratched the back of your head.

Kaku turned from his work with his chisels, before smiling at seeing what the commotion was about.

"(Y/N)!" You waved at him from your chosen spot, not minding how said chosen spot is currently breathing hard and twitching excessively. Kaku noting it as he drew closer, releasing a huff from his long square nose. "I see you have been told what occurred. Although maybe it's wise to get off the misbehaving customers."

"Nah."

Kaku's smile twitched a bit more at that before he asked what you were doing here, you replying that you're going to do your final goodbyes now before heading out. At this point, Lucci turned the corner with a hammer and spotted you along with a complaining Paulie that he needs someone to cover him for lunch since he has no money and come on! He buys them drinks all the time, Lucci replying blandly through Hattori he never asked him to with Paulie immediately lifting his jacket sleeves and asking if he wants to fight. Only for Lucci's eyes to turn and stay to the side, ignoring Paulie as the blond scowled.

What's his problem? What is he even looking— Paulie turned to see himself, eyes widening as the hold of his cigar loosened at seeing you speaking easily with Kaku and the others casually. Tilestone loudly proclaiming for one final challenge of an arm wrestle with you declining you don't got time but maybe another day. (Y/N) is here...?!  Thought that woman would've left by now. Is she staying for Aqua Laguna after all?

"Coo! Take that foolish look off your face, oaf." Paulie's hopeful expression immediately turned to a scowl as his eyes went towards Lucci, who had his dark eyes narrowed at him. Except... Paulie blinked at how sharp it looked before Lucci turned his eyes back towards you—ARE YOU ON TOP OF THOSE PIRATES BODIES?! "She's not staying. She clearly has somewhere to be."

What's his problem?

Paulie's eyes narrowed at Lucci who was watching silently as the body under you moved his hand to grab your ankle, only for you to step on it as you get off as the pirate fainted once more due to the pain. You saying that trash should stay down while the foremen called local officials over to take said pirates to jail. Hattori cooing at the scene while Lucci's eyes seemed to glint for a mere moment before disappearing.

Paulie was aware that Lucci acted a little weirdly to you—honestly his shit head nature seemed to just take a different form with you compared to the blond's.

Still...something's off.

And Paulie isn't sure he likes it. He felt his mouth twist around his cigar, tight and about to say something only to nearly fall over. Familiar arms around his shoulders and him immediately flushing at who it was, even before you backed your head away with a mischievous grin. Dark eyes behind you assessing before turning away.

"Oya! Paulie!"

"G-get off me!" You quickly did so, you never really kept these surprise hugs long and backed up eventually when asked or even before. "Weren't you supposed to leave?!"

"I'm just saying bye, don't gotta rush me if you don't want me to." You said, tilting your head at him with a frown. Geez, what's up with him? He seemed like he wanted you to stay just yesterday. Paulie shook his head, putting a hand to his face in exasperation while saying that's not what he meant. "...mmmm, okay. If ya say so." You than lifted your lips again, and elbowed his side. "Sounds like you'll miss me than~. You like my calves after all?"

Paulie dropped his hand, teeth sharp and face hot.

"S-S-SHUT UP! CRAZY WOMAN!"

"Hey, Tilestone! Didn't know you and Paulie were related." You said, turning your head towards the other laughing and teasing foremen at Paulie who told them to shut up or they're fired which only made them laugh and tease more. Tilestone saying, loudly as always, the papers never went through as Paulie shrieked what papers as you laughed. You turning and walking towards Kaku who was laughing quietly with the others only to stop abruptly when you lifted your arm and wrapped it around his shoulder—making him get tugged down and slightly flushing. You turning towards Paulie and pointing at you and Kaku with your other hand. "See? Kaku's fine. He's normal. Even though he talks like an old man sometimes."

"Ah...(Y/N)," Kaku said slowly with a wavering smile as you turned your head towards him and making their faces close. Paulie nearly squawking at the scene better than Hattori ever could as Lucci stared at where your arms were. Kaku swallowed before strengthening his nerve. "Perhaps one day I won't be once you take my advise."

His advise?

"No, it isn't revealing enough."

You flushed, quickly letting him go at that as you stared wide eyed. Paulie flushing along with you as Kaku scratched his nose sheepishly he was just being honest as Paulie pointed and even poked Kaku's nose. Kaku squinting as Paulie quietly and seriously called him a pervert with Kaku taking the giggled man's hand away with an easy smile and replying that the real pervert is Paulie for blushing from such little things. Paulie obviously defending himself, quite loudly and in a defensive tone, as Kaku just made retorts when needed. You still wrapping your head around what you just heard.

Where did this—where did this Kaku come from?!

You mean, you guess you can say it's better than how he was before when you were in CP9 but...what is he even saying?

Lucci's gaze was on your face, brows slightly knitting and lips thinning. Hattori than flew away from Lucci's shoulder and landed on your own as you turned your attention to the bird who immediately started playing with your hair in a coo while saying "(Y/N)~ (Y/N)~!" quite innocently. You finding it odd at Hattori's actions but you started letting him all the same as he closed his eyes. Lucci's face relaxed as he turned away.

The foremen still not used to the sight of Hattori leaving Lucci's side to another.

"So weird..."

"Yeah, I was sure it was stuck on Lucci's shoulder like glue."

"Well, hopefully like glue. That's the only acceptable white substance that can be from that bird."

"You're disgusting!"

"What? What are you—I was talking about bird shit! What were YOU talking about?!"

"Ah. Nothing. Oh look, Iceburg-san."

"Don't change the subject!"

Once Iceburg did indeed arrive, Paulie had to leave and so you gave him a wave with a smile that you'll see him later. Cause goodbyes are lame. Paulie's eyes rounded as he stared at your face and repeated your words over his head before huffing, turning his back towards you and lifting an arm as he also said see you later but not without of course saying to cover up more next time they see each other. You couldn't help but laugh as Paulie went to do an order from Iceburg.

You also gave a wave to Kaku and the other foremen, him having to continue his work as he did the same before noticing something in Iceburg's pocket.

You pointed at the mayor's shirt as he blinked. Hattori giving a pouting coo at you stopping from the pet's and pecked your cheek slightly which you ignored.

"Is that a mouse?"

"Hm? Oh yes." Iceburg casually scratched the mouse's head in his shirt pocket with a distracted smile as the mouse squeaked. Kalifa straightening her glasses as she looked down at her clipboard in thought. "I found him while we were walking over here. I haven't thought of a name yet..."

"Do you usually pick up random animals in the street?" You asked in a mild deadpan.

Iceburg thought it over before answering.

"Only the ones I like. Right Kalifa?"

Kalifa's glasses flashed as she looked up dutifully.

"Iceburg-san likes cute small animals. But only certain ones. He picked up a salamander the other day only to throw it into the water because it felt funny and saying he didn't like it."

You laughed, tears in your eyes at the image as Iceburg turned towards Kalifa with an embarrassed frown.

"You didn't have to say it like that. Besides, others would agree that fur is better."

"Pfft, I guess."

Iceburg turned towards a foremen who said there were potential customers up front that Kaku talked to, Iceburg and Kalifa moving up front as you turned towards Lucci who still stood with hands in his pockets. Hattori flying away with a "Coo!" back towards his shoulder. You were about to say something to the weird kitty that was standing there like a weirdo only for your senses to go off as your eyes brightened. You using Soryu to the front of the Dock as Lucci's eyes narrowed.

Scum.

Lucci went towards the front as well, spotting you with a rising pirate captain who has an interesting crew member. Lucci stayed back as you got up to them.

"Luffy!"

The Straw Hat quickly turned from the mayor and smiled at you as he ran up towards you with eagerness and a call of your name.

"(Y/N)!"

"Whoa!" Usopp's eyes widened at your form, surprised. "(Y/N)'s here too?!" He than moved close to the equally surprised Nami, raining his hand to his mouth and muttering, "You think she knows people here too?"

Nami looked towards Usopp, also raising her hand and keeping her eyes on you, as you patted the sunny storm's head in greeting as you asked him if they're repairing their ship and you met up with Chopper and Robin beforehand, him replying with wide eyes and excited "Really?!" and asking if you knew they were repairing the ship before Chopper and Robin and used your mind reader powers to do that. Making you laugh at how he somehow still thinks that as Luffy tilted his head, wondering what was funny.

"Surely she can't know everybody. We're going to need to take her with us if she does though." Usopp blinked as Nami continued, making a mischievous smile as she raised a pointed finger. "It'll be easier. Think about having to avoid all these fights and weirdos if she talked to the ones she knows."

Usopp thought it over nodding, before turning doubtful as Nami asked what.

"Well...isn't she a weirdo too? Will she help with that?"

"..."

"..."

At once, crocodile tears went down Nami's and Usopp's face as their faces fell. Nami's eyes than brightening in determination.

"I can still use her for her money...!"

"You can get pretty heartless, Nami." Usopp said flatly.

You nodded at Luffy with a smile at his words and gave another pat of his head as you looked over at Nami and Usopp, nodding towards them as well. You squinting your eyes as her face seemed to widen into a large overtaking greedy grin with her eyes being Beli's instead.

"You're making it obvious!" Usopp shouted, his nose to Nami's cheek as Nami waved eagerly at you and practically sparkled.

"Where's that fifty thousand Beli you owe me, (Y/N)~?" You paled as Nami's face darkened threateningly as she kept her smile and her tone light. "Don't forget I have blackmail information from you~."

You remembered your words to her about having bad luck in saunas back in Alabasta as apprehension went through you.

You have to get out of here! Quick!

"Eh? Blackmail?"

"Woahhh," Luffy laughed easily, "Nami is really excited to see you (Y/N)! Shishishishishi! Me too!"

Iceburg rose an eyebrow, amused at the scene before him. Kalifa observing with a thoughtful expression as Lucci analyzed behind his cold one.

"You know them, (Y/N)?"

You blinked, straightening and turned your eyes towards the lazy mayor. Wrapping your arm around the young man of dreams shoulder as you grinned, seeming to match with Luffy's own.

"Yeah. They ain't nothing to be scared of though, they're nice and friendly. Especially with this captain." You said as you rubbed Luffy's head to which he laughed out loud. You than moving to pinch his cheek cause why not, making him slightly slap your hands playfully. "Still gotta wide smile I see."

"Hey! Stop!"

Your grin turned playful.

"No~."

You continued to rub his head, this time harder, Luffy laughing harder at the action. Trying to match your energy by pulling on your own cheek as you spoke oddly that yours doesn't stretch like his as he just laughed easily at your pulled out face. You eventually letting him go with a smile.

"What are you doing here?" Nami asked and seemed to have calm down from her greedy air. Usopp making a low mutter only Nami could hear that it looks like you know the mayor. Nami elbowed his stomach, making Usopp double over in surprise as she kept her eyes on you. "Are you staying?"

You answered that you were actually leaving today. Maybe you said it a little too quickly. You rather leave before you somehow get charged more for breathing. Luffy pouted, to which you smiled and promised you'll tell more stories of Shanks next time. He quickly grinned and gave a quick nod.

In (Y/N)'s mind however, you knew that Luffy and the others will probably cause a big fuss here. You think you can bet on it actually, as you stood back as Iceburg explained how this will work when they fix the ship. And apparently his mouse's name is now Tyrannosaurus, Kalifa also stating the facts of the crew that is clearly growing large in a fast rate.

In fact, you internally smiled as you thought on how the Straw Hats were, they would probably be able to defeat CP9. Or just stop them if things get out of hand. You hoped however, that by the time that comes, they will be stronger. Hopefully their mission will take awhile for the Straw Hats to build up strength. Whatever the mission truly is.

So after you said your goodbyes to Luffy, Nami, and Usopp and told them to say hello to the others for you, you said goodbye to Iceburg. And hence Kalifa, blocking a kick to your face from saying his name casually as you smirked and said bye. While adding to give Iceburg some ice on his face with a laugh from the pun due to Kalifa miskicking at him. You moved towards the direction of a predator waiting under the shadow of one of the open tool shed's.

Lucci staring at you with hard to read eyes, Hattori giving a flap of his wings as you put your hand out. Lucci watching as Hattori made a pleased coo as you pet from his head to his back in an even motion with crossed arms. Lucci didn't say anything when your eyes eventually turned towards him, your hand still on Hattori as you did absent scratches. You didn't say anything either as your eyes connected.

The corner of your lip twitched up once before you put your hand back to your side, nodding at him.

"See ya later, Lucci."

Lucci stared for a moment more before he turned his head away, eyes slightly shadowed due to his top hat. Hattori tilted his head at you.

That's all the goodbye you're getting. Which is fine. You expected it. It could've been worse. Maybe Lucci actually wants to not be a bastard for once.

You hid a snort that wanted to come out as you turned your back on him.

He's always a bastard, you think of quiet moments by campfires, of awkwardness of holding and taking care of a baby, of training between claws and swords. You hid a shadowed quirk of the lips, eyes distant. But...it's been awhile after all.

"Oh," you say, turning your head over your shoulder and Lucci glanced at you with one eye as his head stayed turned away. "Almost forgot. Don't underestimate the Straw Hats." Lucci's crossed arms tensed for a moment but before he surely would breathe out a scoff, you used Geppo and left like that.

Him back alone and staring where you were before moving to continue to do his job and be a "good little shipwright."

You gave your warning.

The kitty just had to listen.

But cats aren't good at following orders.

-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-

Right when you left, you used the Sea Train to go towards San Faldo(atop the train of course! You're not stupid enough to try to get a ticket and just show your face everywhere.) and have been in the carnival island with all these masked people(the masks are pretty creepy) but the food has been good! At least, nothing seems too bad. You have just been here the past day, your gut telling you to stay close to Water 7 so you did.

And so here you are, eating greasy/oily food standard where you would find in other carnivals at a table with an umbrella to give you shade. Looking in thought as you chewed and munched as you stared at one of the rides in the distance. Hearing the screams and laughter as you sat alone with people passing by your table every now and again, whether groups or couples.

Man you wanna ride that. But rides are for two people or more! Not just one.

You think Luffy would like to ride with you. A good roller coaster or a chainsaw! Or Ace. But you think he would want to sit next to Isuka. Hina would be more into casinos than rides. A lot like Paulie actually—Oh! Maybe the new Kaku would! SmoBaka has rode stuff with you before when they were younger depending on the island. After you asking him a certain amount of times(he thinks you never asked. Not really. Since you would ask him to go somewhere with you but you're already pulling or pushing him towards it as you ask. It still counts!) but sometimes he wouldn't like it. The Old Man would like it even if it would induce a heart attack.

I think Shanks would like it too, you thought of which rides he would like. You think it would be all the adrenaline like ones that you like. Would he like the relaxing ones like Smoker? Your mind envisioned the two of you on a Ferris wheel, all the way on the top and his right arm around your shoulders as he laughed and did that smile. You choked on your food, blushing as you punched your chest. Ack! No!

As you were trying to recover from your stupid brain and hopefully not die by food, a strange duo was passing by your table. One had a pink cloak while the other was yellow, with masks just covering the top half of their face, matching their color scheme.

Oh. And the square shaped hair would be something noticeable too.

"Where did Aniki go, waina~?" The pink one asked, her curls on her square shaped head going over her forehead being swept in the wind as they both stood a few feet away from your table and your hacking form. "He went to get the wood, didn't he?"

"You know how Aniki is, Kiwi. " The yellow one answered with a hand to her hip, head cocked and looking up obnoxiously to the sky with sharp nose pointing up ahead similar to a lance. "He should be coming here soon, waina~. Oh look! There he is!"

A large lumbering man came with a cloak covering his body that would appear extraordinarily lumpy in some areas underneath with a large mask covering his face, light blue hair curling up atop of the mask in pompadour. Once he found the square hair sisters he called out in greeting.

"Yow! Kiwi! Mozu! You ready to super get out of here?" The man called out strongly, making a move with his arms by first circling them in front of his chest and than making a pose by half lowering himself and connecting the back of his forearms together. "We finally got what we need!"

The two sisters instantly got on each of his sides and matched his 'Super!' pose with their own cloaks covering them.

"How awesome, Aniki!" They both called out, tapping their feet along with the large masked man as they heard a beat only they could hear. Moving their heads and craning their necks as they did so from side to side in sync with the man.

The dancing was drawing a crowd of the other masked residents of the carnival island San Faldo, with families pointing at the debacle.

"Look mommy! It's a dancing circus!" A child called out, pointing as the man started swinging and moving his hips along with the women.

The mom pulled the child back and covered their eyes with a small concerned sweatdrop.

"I don't think so honey. For some reason, I have a sense that whats under that cloak is inappropriate..."

"But they're just dancing! Look!" The child now copying the dance moves of thrusting the hips from side to side and forward with arms locked behind his head. Only to be grabbed by the ear. "Ow!"

The mother wagging her finger at her child in reprimand that those moves were inappropriate and proceed to turn them away.

You recovered from the choking and coughing by now, you staring with a brow arched at what was happening a little ways away from your table. Your plate empty and done to the side as you just stared at the cloaked trio that kept saying "Yow!" or "Super!" or "Super Adam!" as they moved their lower bodies and tapped or moved their feet. It looked like the weird masked guy was leading and the women were his backup dancers.

"Why do I feel like I should use Hantei...?" You wondered to yourself, getting up from the table and about to move.

The cloaked masked man stopped, his ear twitching obnoxiously.

"Eh? Did I hear hentai?" He looked towards you as you stared with blinking eyes. What did he say? He immediately honed in towards you, you leaning slightly back as he moved forward and unblinking eyes if the colorful mask going close to your face. "Listen onna-chan, I'm no pervert! Would a pervert do this?!"

He slightly backed away, than dramatically did a pose by putting an arm behind his head and thrusting his hips out to the side and back repeatedly while saying "Well? Pretty super, right?"

You had a slow sweatdrop coming down your head.

"Uhhhhhhhhh. Your other move was better." The man let out a "Yow!" from surprise and stopped as you kept going. "And I don't know what perverts would do. Since I'm not one. And since you apparently know what they wouldn't do...do whatever you were doing with your junk, wouldn't that mean you know how perverts think and are therefore a pervert?"

"..."

"..."

The wind blew as the crowd watched in silence. All with sweatdrops, including Kiwi and Mozu.

What backwards thinking. Is that woman okay?

"Oh," the weird cloaked man said, putting a hand to his chin as he looked up in thought. "Huh. Never thought about it like that. Am I pervert?"

"THAT'S WHAT MAKES YOU THINK YOU'RE A PERVERT?!" The crowd including the mother and excluding the children angrily shouted.

"Hey! What are you saying to our Aniki, waina~?!" The pink garbed woman asked you, hand on her hips as you turned towards her. You think you heard her name was Mozu. "You stopped him from doing his super moves!"

"What do you think you're doing?" The other one came closer to you as well, blocking your view from the masked man as you blinked. "Making Aniki have an identity breakdown! Can't you tell he's more than a pervert or are you like the others that can't see our Franky, waina~?!"

Is her name Mozu? Or is it Kiwi? You think with brows furrowed as you looked between the two women with their square shaped hair. One curly and the other straight. Both with pretty sharp noses though. You wonder if they've poked someone's eye out with those before. Wait, they're accusing me of something.

"Hah? Didn't you just call him a pervert?" You scratched the back of your neck, seeing the sisters seeming to stop. You stopped as well, hand to your chin and looking up in thought. "Wait. Did I ever call him a pervert? Or did I just ask if he thinks like a pervert he may be a pervert?"

"You implied it!" Mozu(you think) accused with a pointed finger.

Kiwi scratched her forehead. "Or did she question it?"

The three of you hummed to yourselves in thought while looking up. At this point, the crowd has long since dispersed. The mother having to pull her child by the arm and giving advise to not talk to cloaked men or seemingly slow marine women with large swords.

The cloaked man seemed to have enough however as he snapped.

"Who cares?! What matters is we should get out of here before the next train leaves. Mozu. Kiwi." They both looked at him in attention and walked back towards him, you staring as they did so and brow arching when the cloaked man bowed at you. You slightly tilted your head at the sense of having a moving dream at sea. A shipwright? "Nice to have met ya, hentai onna. We have to go now but safe travels!"

The three hightailed out of there before you can think twice. When you did though, a tick got on your face.

"Who ya calling a pervert, pervert?!"

"Ah!" The three of them said and stopped with mouth open as they pointed at you from at this point blocks away. "You said it!"

"Oh. Yeah I did." You turned back again to see them gone and you outwardly said "Hah?!" again before you just shrugged it off. They seemed okay. And if that guy is a shipwright like you felt, than he can't be that bad.

Weird though. The name Franky sounds familiar. Was it about those ship dismantled everyone told you about and you heard?

Didn't Iceburg mention them?

-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-

A few blocks away as they got into the train station and in a hidden alleyway, the three were panting as the cloaked man took off his mask briefly and took a large puff of air.

"Pah!" Franky said, fixing his shades on as sweat was gathered all over his brow and wiped it. "That was super close!"

Kiwi and Mozu were confused, asking him why they ran and Franky whirled on them, face notably pale.

"You didn't recognize her? Although it did take me a bit too so I can see why...I was lost in thought about what she said—"

"We know." Kiwi and Mozu replied flatly.

"But than when the two of you were thinking, I snapped out of it and actually looked at who accused me! That was Ex-Marine Silver Blood (Y/N)!"

Kiwi and Mozu gasped, faces pale as they put hands to their mouths.

"What?! That was her?" Kiwi asked.

"I can't believe she's the one that beat Zambai and the others in her sleep when she first slept at her boat!" Mozu exclaimed, shock clear in her voice. "They said she didn't even seem to notice they were there or that anything happened the next day!"

"But than why did she stop sleeping there?" Kiwi inquired. "There has to be a reason!"

It was due to three men nagging at her, the narrator supplied helpfully. It was for naught. Since no one could hear.

"It doesn't matter," Franky said, face serious although he frowned. "I would've liked to have seen what Zambai meant though by Silver Blood's boat seem to have some of my work though. That was the only reason I okayed such a small boat for dismantling anyways. There's no way. I would've remembered making something like that for someone like her...unless..."

Franky's frown deepened, thinking of an old drunken woman that raised two brats asking for a favor years ago. His thoughts got interrupted when he heard a train whistle.

"Oh, that's the train for Water 7!" Kiwi stated, fixing her attire along with her sister.

"Yow!" Franky fixed his glasses once more, as well as putting the mask back on his face and fixing his cloak, his grin sharp beneath the mask. "Let's party once we arrive to the others! We got Adam now!"

"Hai, Hai, Aniki, waina~!" Both sisters cheered as the three entered the train.

-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-

It was barely a few hours later that newspapers fall from the sky with the News Coo, grabbing your attention as you were in line for bumper cars.

You grabbing one falling, reading the headline and your eyes widening as the rest of the island panicked and distressed.

"Mayor Iceburg of Water 7 Attempted Assassination..." you read in growing confusion and alarm, your eyes narrowing as you read the next. "By the Straw Hats? No...that's not right."

The others were just after an information retrieval. They didn't want someone as powerful and connected as Iceburg to be taken out. It would be more of a hindrance if he was actually killed. They would have done it a long time ago if than.

This was a mission of establishing trust to get what they need and get out. The night at Blueno's Bar, they even agreed to your words...

You frowned, putting the newspaper down.

Or was it more silently agreeing to your words and you took it as you being correct?

No. You know these missions.

You may be rusty, and you hated being in CP9–but you were one of the best. You know your stuff. That's why you and Lucci were such good partners after all.

Luffy and the others must've found something. And so they're trying to pin it on them. But than wouldn't Iceburg see his would be assassin? Unless he was sleeping...no...the newspaper said it was the Straw Hats.

You looked back at the newspaper, eyes quickly scanning before your eyes widened.

Robin? You thought distantly, of dislikes of oranges and the yellows of the sky due to looking like a distant island burning, of history being weaved, the smell of a new book, how she looked when looking at Chopper by the bookshop. No...she wouldn't...would she?

Your lips thinned, knowing what you would do. What you have done.

To protect.

We're too alike, your lips twitch to a small ironic smile. We could be friends.

You move, getting out of the line and throwing the newspaper away.

Well. It looks like there may be a mess of things.

And you always found a way to be in the middle.

So, when you heard of a government train passing through, presumably the last from Water 7 as the island is going through Aqua Laguna—you decide to have some fun and get on your boat. Kuroi ten'nosabaki gleaming on your back and Karasu glinting excitedly on your hip as you set sail with a sharp grin it might as well be a smirk.

Time to go visit Enies Lobby!

It's been awhile after all!

-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-

"Woah!" You steadied yourself on your rowboat against the rough waves, the wind billowing and moving your hair and causing confusion to your sail, the sky above you all dark as night and rain pouring down. "This Aqua Laguna is no joke! If only the wind would decide to blow and this can actually turn to a bit of a ride..." You muttered to yourself in disappointment.

You were caught up in Aqua Laguna despite not being close to Water 7, the storm able to affect miles out with rain and rough waves and only darkness to see due to thick black clouds. The harsh waves coming over you at times and making you more drenched than you already are, the water making your swords glisten and your clothes stick like second skin.

It didn't help that the wind is just making you more cold.

You swiped at your face, clearing some water as you tried to squint where you are.

Enies Lobby shouldn't be much farther now. You haven't been in the place in years, but you know you'll be close once you spot the lit up and "Never Night" Island. It would be easy to spot yet it seems you still have to make some ground.

Or you guess waves in this case.

You snorted at your own joke, before almost choking as a wave came towards you, you quickly having to face it to avoid more damage. Saltwater entering some parts of your small boat but still holding as you tasted the seawater in your mouth.

Me having to keep doing this is getting annoying, you thought in irritation.

"Help!"

You stiffened, eyes widening as your eyes scanned around you to find the childlike voice you heard.

"I don't know where I am!" They repeated, pleading and voice quivering as you tried to find where it could be coming from. What's a kid doing out here?! "Help! I...have to help my crew...!"

You turned, eyes widening with what you spotted in the distance. A caravel ship maintains itself on the rough waves despite how it would batter, the figurehead of a sheep with drawn eyes appearing tearful yet resolute.

The Going Merry? You frowned, going towards the caravel ship with your boat. Tying your boat to the small ship that seems it's seen better days, metal holding the figurehead on as well as the mast. You jumped up onto the wet railing, boots maintaining their hold on the slippery surface as drops fell from cap as you scanned the ship only to see no one. As I thought. The Straw Hats are all in Enies Lobby. Who did I hear?

"Please," you flicked your wide eyes around, trying to find the source of the soft childish voice only for your eyes to turn back towards the figurehead. The sheep's eyes staring and seeming to bore into yours with...determination? "You helped before. Please help the crew again. They...they need me!"

Your jaw loosened. You stepped onto the ship, looking at how worn it is. How despite the chips in it's wood, the barely kept together mast and figurehead, it arrived at this point.

This can't be... You thought of what the shipwrights in Water 7 would sometimes joke about. How maybe they will have a ship that had it's own spirit. You stepped in front of the mast, hand reaching towards the wet wood and avoiding the metal bandage. Maybe...

You closed your eyes, hand meeting wood.

One last great adventure.

Your eyes snapped open, a disbelieving smile on your lips.

"Hah...there's really a lot I still haven't seen..." You moved your hand in a small caress on the mast, an action of comfort, before turning your head back towards the figurehead. You smiled. "Don't have to worry, Merry. I'll take you to them. To Enies Lobby."

"T-Thank you!"

You shrugged away the thanks, as if it was no big deal. Probably because it wasn't.

"I was heading over there anyways. Besides, never helped a klau...klawbetter...er, hold on." You put a hand to your chin, your mouth trying to form the word of what the shipwright's said as Merry's figurehead seemed to form a slow sweatdrop with a collection of raindrops falling atop it, "Klabowter...Kluebowter...Ah! Wait!" Your eyes shined as you held a finger, grin on your lips. "Kluebooterman!"

There was a pause.

Than you heard a giggle. It was the surprised sort, all giggles and softness and chimes that makes your eyes turn half lidded. Pleased at the joyous sound.

Merry's giggles turned to soft chuckles, before settling. You squinted your eyes, water getting into them and making your vision blur momentarily. But you're sure you saw a small figure on the sheep's head.

"You're nice. I'm...I'm sorry I couldn't be your home too."

Your eyes widened, a part of you clenching before you shook your head. It's grieving for it's confused.

"Don't focus on that. Let's go help you out, okay? And you can save your family."

One last time.

It was unsaid. But Merry knew. And you knew too, as your gaze turned back towards the mast that creaked and crushed from each wind that passed by. You touched the mast once more, lips pulling into a frown before pulling back and pointing to the direction of Enies Lobby.

Merry able to sail itself. You don't know how but frankly you're grateful. You don't know how to use a stick to sail caravels anyways. You're grateful for your knowledge of sailing how it is.

You're sure Mihawk found that part of teaching the most irritating.

Your lips lifted at the memories of you getting lost before deciding to leave Merry once you spotted Enies Lobby. Just a few miles away from their position. You gave Merry a goodbye pat on the railing before jumping back on your attached boat, releasing the knots and going your own way while Merry went theirs.

You think it said goodbye too, the Jolly Roger flag moving one way and to the other with the wind in a semblance of a wave.

You stared until it left your eyesight, going to another side of the island and avoiding Marine ships on it's way. Miraculously staying afloat and moving with the waves, the waves almost seeming to be in it's side. To save the Straw Hat's—despite the storm and despite how ships and cannons use weapons to slowly turn Enies Lobby into nothing.

It sailed.

From the rough waves and dark seas to one filled with light and beginnings of the end.

Your lips twitched, thinking of the sunny storm and of Dawn before turning away. Your boat going your own way, careful of ships but seeing their attention solely on the Straw Hats in the Bridge of Hesitation only for them to fall into safety.

You grinned, so sharp and quirked on one side it might as well be a smirk.

You punched a fist into an open hand.

"Time to help bastards!"

.

.

.

Edited 03/30/22

This used to be The Meaning of a Friend but I made too many extra details compared to before. SB not even reaching the injured Lucci yet now.

Added extra scenes instead with the Straw Hat's, Franky and what exactly made you stop him and His Family from bothering the shipwrights/city when you were there, and of course—Merry. Rest In Peace Merry. You the GOAT.

Well. Sheep. But it could still work.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

**Kuroi ten'nosabaki🗡🎇 💀(Black Heaven's Judgement): your black sword with a sheen of silver buster sword that's carrie son your back. Think of it like Cloud's sword from Final Fantasy or Zabuza's sword from Naruto.

(Your sword is a mix of Cloud's and Zabuza's, there is no hole in your sword, but there IS a half moon cut in it. But the half moon cut near the top of the sword.)

**Karasu(Raven): your noticeably smaller and total black sword that is on your hip. You can imagine whatever sword you want, but perhaps the Chokuto sword will fit. Like Sasuke's sword from Naruto Shippuden.

**Tekkai: Iron Body. Defense technique taught by the marines where your body turns hard like iron.

**Soryu: Shave. Where you can move in an instant flash in a burst of high speed. Taught and learned normally by marines.

**Geppo: Moon Walk. A move where it appears you're jumping in midair, when it's just the strength of your legs moving quickly and touching the ground that keeps you upright. You often used this when you're on your small boat so you can go faster on sea. Taught and learned normally by marines.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Revealing, but not revealing enough to explain why you left. Your past is still a mystery.

And aren't YOU just the most precious cinnamon roll with your friends~ (*cough*cough*besides Luffy*cough*) But really. Maybe you ARE too nice.

^_^

LOOK AT THAT!

Mihawk and Shanks are now tied! X3

One vote for our Warlord Swordsman and another for our Yonko~

WHO WILL BE NEXT I WONDER?!

FIND OUT! NEXT TIME ON STRONG!! XD

THANK YOU THOSE WHO HAVE VOTED AND COMMENTED! THEY ARE VERY APPRECIATED!! XD

HOPE EVERYONE HAS A NICE DAY/NIGHT!!! XD

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

**FANART CORNER**

FANART found on Wattpad

Chapter Text

It barely took you a few minutes before you were frowning to yourself, wondering why you were doing this again.

I'm starting to think I'm too nice.

You thought to yourself, (e/c) eyes checking to see if the marines were still trying to find the Straw Hats that somehow disappeared from view before you used Kamisori to go into the Tower where Lucci was.

You managed to gather Kaku and Kalifa too, them being conscious as you deposited them onto your boat. Wondering why you were here only for you to tell them to be quiet and if they spot the others, to try to signal them to come to your boat. Kaku's eyes assessing with a frown that shouldn't be there with Kalifa seeming to be in thought when you stated you're going towards Lucci, hand keeping the blanket covering her bare form(you didn't even want to know what happened with that). Eyes behind glasses regarding you before hiding a smile behind her hand, which you didn't pay attention to as you moved on.

Why am I doing this? Really...

You thought as you landed by Lucci's unconscious body. Before you picked him up, you noticed the scar on his tanned back. The one that was practically a brand of the World Government symbol and still the only scar he's gotten based on what you can tell from his upper half alone.

It was less scarred then before. You reaching a hand towards it, to actually feel it's smoothness compared to before only to pull back.

You only smiling wryly, you touching your own scar on your left cheek in memory instead.

You though of a cream left outside a door. To heal and restore. To say bye.

He's been using it. That damn proud and sadistic cat actually has been using that cream you gave to him long ago.

"Heh..." You couldn't help but release, eyes behind your cap being half lidded and enigmatic. "You...really are a bastard..."

You picked him up gently, not wanting to move him that much because of his bloody injuries, throwing his arm around your shoulder and keeping a hand on his waist. You heard him growl, you glanced at him to see his eyes half lidded and open. Staring at you.

Those eyes.

He's asking why again.

You know he is. He's given that look to you before when the both of you were still a team. When the both of you were partners. Just two young teenagers that became young adults, stuck together whether they wanted to or not.

When you were still in CP9.

The organization that causes you to wake up with a cold sweat, tears threatening to fall as a result of your nightmares. Still to this day, that makes the space under your eyes look a tad more sunken at times. Learning to live with little sleep.

The organization that made your mind and memories a blur each time you looked at your hands, those bloody hands. Those, those very bloody hands. That would stick with red and stunk of copper and it felt as if your mouth was coated with it when you would bite your tongue. To not talk back. To keep your mouth shut or everything you wanted will go down to the shithole and everything you did at that point would've been for naught if you spoke up.

The organization that made you realize how the world works.

But...

Despite all of this...

You thought of the odd conversations you had with the other members, them having small smiles and smirks. While others gave big chortles or huge laughs. Of odd haiku's that made no sense, of feeding the watchdog's because "they're hungry!", of gossip not quite being whispered to your ear but a loud mutter, of a manicured hand around a martini glass and words of being a woman assassin, of a irritated expression when the purple booger mentioned hating baseball, of a ship in a bottle hidden in a room not quite under the bed as if ashamed but not wishing to be. The times where you actually let out those rare smiles, and chuckles. With Lucci smirking next to you. Even if it was sadistically.

You thought of campfires. The scent of wood, the sound of crackling fire and fish being cooked and pierced by two sticks. Hattori cooing.

You recalled once more of biting your tongue. Never saying what you wished. Not saying what you mean. How long it took you to even admit what you're about to say to yourself.

You thought of a promise.

You gave him a soft smile as you adjusted him so you can carry him easier. Dark eyes seeming to focus more in attention on you when your hand on his waist moved more to his abdomen at the adjustment.

"Because, dear Lucci, you're my comrade." You whispered with conviction and assurance. Back then, you weren't sure why you did the things you did for Lucci. You weren't sure at all.

You just knew it was because you saw him as a comrade. But you didn't know why. Why you saw the sadistic man as a friend. Why him? The one who loved to kill and fight? Reveled in it?

Except, for comrades, why should there be a reason?

You don't need reasons for being friends with someone, you just are.

That's what it means.

Your smile widened, your eyes closing as you gave the exhausted Lucci a bright smile.

"Cause you're my friend!"

Lucci's eyes widened in shock and surprise, and then slowly closed again. This time however, a small twitch of the lips was plastered on his face.

The quiet silence with a warmth on your back.

You blinked, eyes darting towards his sleeping expression, his body drooping  more on you as his breaths turned slow and heavy.

...what a stupid man.

Your lips twitched subconsciously despite the thought. Widening when you heard a flutter of wings and the feel of something landing on your cap, Hattori doing a sad Coo. You told Hattori to hang in there before strengthening the hold around him and keeping yourself upright as you started to drag him to the huge hole on the wall of the Tower.

You need to get him down there without jostling him too much. His broken ribs can worsen.

"Oi! What, you decided to throw that shit cat off the cliff finally?!" You blinked, turning back to see Blueno using his Open Door ability behind you and Jabra stepping out of it with a scowl and a fist raised in front of him, shaking it. Blueno looked like he didn't want to be here for this as he raised his eyes skyward. "Well, I don't care who you became or your weird relationship with that guy—but know this! I'm the only one that gets to kill that shitbag and not you!" At this point, Jabra reached in front of you and was pointing right at your nose. Your eyes crossed at it. "And I'm definitely not gonna just throw him off towards the devilish sea! The shitty cat is gonna be tortured by me first and show felines everywhere that—"

Jabra kept going on a tangent, your lips slowly growing as he went on before letting out a snort.

"What's so funny?!" Jabra asked, you only shaking your head as you adjusted Lucci's arm around you.

"Nice to see you too, Jabra." Jabra froze, doing a little sputter before he released a "Tch!" and scratched the back of his tied back head, kicking at the ground once. You could hear him mumbling something about "you too" or that he guesses they can both end Lucci, but the sick bastard might like it than but you turned your attention towards Fukuro who also stepped out the Open Door. Hattori flying away from your head and pecking at a yelling irritated Jabra now. Fukuro blinked his eyes in a way that made him appear like an owl with how wide they were. "Ah...Fukuro...long time no—"

The sound of a zip opening.

"Chapapapa! (Y/N)! Do I have stuff to tell you!" Fukuro said cheeringly. Blueno's, Kumadori's(who was still behind Blueno on the other side), and even the now freshly scratched Jabra along with Hattori snapped their heads over. "I missed you! Actually, everybody felt the Tower more empty now that you were gone! Jabra missed pranking on Lucci with you!"

"H-Hey!"

Fukuro went on, not seeming to care how everyone's eyes seemed to bore into him to watch his words while you stared at him incredulously.

"But you should've seen Lucci, he barely even wanted to take cat naps up at the roof any—"

Jabra grabbed Fukuro's cheek harshly, making Fukuro making a strangled "Chapapapa" before Jabra zipped his mouth back up.

"Don't say things you don't—I mean—" Jabra turned towards you, an odd nervous scowl on his face. Him gesturing towards Fukuro while still holding his cheek harshly. "He clearly still likes gossip. Don't pay him any mind. He just really likes rumors and spreading them." Jabra squeezed, smile turning threatening and not at all fitting his face as ticks formed. "Don't you Fukuro...?! DON'T THINK I FORGOT ABOUT THE GATHERINE THING!"

You shook your head, before Kumadori jumped out the Open Door and doing a pose. His hand out while the other was behind him holding his staff, one leg bent and the other straight as he held one eye in a prolonged wink.

"Yoyoi!" Kumadori exclaimed. "All this talk of lost love needs a haiku—"

"No it doesn't!" Jabra bellowed.

"—of the most despaired variety. It goes like this." Kumadori took a breath and closed his eyes, pink thick hair like a mane moving in the wind as you stared blankly at the man. How does he still have energy? Didn't he get beat up? "This is only I, thinking of you and smiles, Sacred memories."

Kumadori opened his eyes, smiling like a maniac and staring at everyone unexpectedly.

"..."

"That...was..." you said, looking in thought as Hattori was on your head once more, appearing as if it was patting under its eyes for tears with a wing.

"That may have been your best," Blueno conceded in a monotone, assessing Kumadori. Or was it appraisal?

A zip opened.

"I have to spread that everywhere now! I'll make sure to tell Lucci too when he—" A slap to the mouth by Jabra as he seemed to be having a tough time, face morphed into a discomforted scowl.

"I..." Jabra scratched at his cheek, before shrugging, beginning to pick his nose with his pinky as he turned his back to everyone. "It was okay."

The wolf Zoan's voice sounded tense, almost tremulous. His shoulders seeming to be shaking and his hand seemed to either move deeper into his nose or covering his face.

You and the others blinked. Hattori moving to fly overhead and fly by Jabra only to cry out: "Crying! Crying!"

You blinked again.

"Jabra's crying...?!"

"N-No!" Jabra blubbered, clearly not crying as fat tears went down his face as he squatted down to the ground. "I—I—there's just shit in my eye!"

"Yoyoi, Jabra!" Kumadori sniffed, wiping a stray tear as he drew close to Jabra and away tree down with him, putting a hand to the Zoan's back. "I did not think...to see the day where my poetry went through to you...! You must've really loved Gatherine!"

"S-shut up!" Jabra cried, breaking down even further as you moved slowly away until you, Fukuro, and Blueno were staring at them blankly. If one would look, one would spot Lucci's brow twitching in irritation at his coma state hearing the wolf blubber as you held him. What a miracle! "T-That bitch...who does she think...she is...?! Breaking up with me...for...for that shitty cat of all people!"

Kumadori put his hands on Jabra's shoulders, shaking him.

"No! You—" Kumadori's voice was thick, tears falling from his own black eye-lined eyes. "You deserve someone better, Jabra! Have hope and not fall to loss!"

"Really?!"

"Yoyoi!"

They both looked at each other, starting to bawl loudly as they held each other, cheek to cheek.

Fukuro leaned heavily towards an unamused Blueno, unzipping the corner of his lips to whisper to the bull haired man's ear. You too focused on the odd scene, a spotlight seeming to appear on the two while the rest of the environment was dark in dramatically effect.

"I bet if I tell him what I heard on how Lucci responded, he'll feel better."

"I doubt that," Blueno deadpanned.

This is a lot more dramatic than I thought it would be. Despite this, you can't help but wonder who they're talking about. Who wants to date Lucci anyways?

-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-

In a Friendly Marine WarShip holding islanders of Enies Lobby rescued from Buster Call

A woman with ridiculously high and protruding cheekbones that can surely cut someone if they attempted to kiss her cheeks, had a handkerchief between exaggerated thick and big lips, large eyes with dark pupils in tears.

I can't believe it ended like this! Gatherine thought, sharp features turning sharper as she cried quite messily in her cabin. The island is gone, my job is gone, but most importantly...

Gatherine thought of a dark gaze that matched the tall, dark, and handsome that came back from Water 7.

I lost my future husband! Gatherine clenched her teeth around her handkerchief, pulling it as she did so. There's no way those rumors about him and that now pirate trash all those years ago whispered in the gossip groups are true. But than why did he deny me?!

Gatherine thought back to when she broke up with that mangy ugly mutt after she noticed the handsome man that is Lucci-kun come out the train, his hair that must be like silk billowing in the wind. And than having a difficult time trying to track him down before seeing him walk down the halls to reach what Gatherine believed was his room. Her blue empty eyes seeming to sparkle as they travelled up and down in his wonderfully suited form, only ruined by that bird on his shoulder.

But it's fine, she could change that. She can make a man do anything for she's the most beautiful in Enies Lobby! She can just tell him to get rid of that diseased pest so they can freely be happy together with no concern of white stains.

Well... some white stains.

Gatherine had her plan in place, a charming smile on her lips that looked plastered on her face as she cleared her throat behind him. Only for him to keep walking. When clearing her throat again, albeit louder, didn't do anything she gracefully walked quickly and started to walk beside him. Trying to catch his attention again but he must've not seen her, his nose seeming to crinkle cutely before his long legs made longer strides along the floor that made him appear as if he was wading and not walking!

It took for her to run and stop in front of him, hands on her voluptuous hips and a smile still on her face despite the sweat on her skin for him to finally stop. The mere sound of quiet embodying the hall now there are no footsteps made Gatherine feel tension.

Which had to be sexual tension! He was staring so harshly at her, as if he wanted to take her right now~!

Gatherine ignored the bird, who stared at her with pupil-less eyes before releasing a Coo that sounded like a dismissal a he turned his head up before proceeding to clean his feathers.

She mentioned how she saw him earlier, how powerful he looked coming out of that train with that Devil Child in tow. How he must've gotten much attention in Water 7 but he's back home now and certain prospects are available for him to exclusively use. She made sure to lower her voice, tone seductive and eyelashes fluttering as she mentioned that he's a great man that would give no attention to a pirate offspring, calling him "Lucci-kun" as she did so with a hand reaching towards his chest that Gatherine knows holds ripples and tantalizing muscles.

Lucci's eyes seemed to darken before she couldn't see it anymore underneath his top hat, his form moving past her with smooth cold words.

"I don't cohort with someone that sleeps with dogs."

It made Gatherine's smile freeze on her face, the flying pest repeating "Cohort~!" a few times before saying "Waste~!" a couple more before they disappeared around a corner. Leaving Gatherine wondering of rumors that have to be impossible because who would sleep with a pirate bitch?! And choose you over her?!

"I don't cohort with someone that sleeps with dogs."

The words still repeat in her head even now!

Gatherine tightened her hold on her handkerchief, balling it in her fist before her empty eyes turned aflame.

I'll get you, pirate pest! And that mangy bird too!

-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-

You and Hattori sneezed, your boat sailing next to the others on the train tracks to head to St. Poplar. Lucci's body near you and laying on the ground face up to not move him too much.

Kumadori telling you bless you and you giving a small thanks as you rubbed your nose in mild confusion. You felt the others stares keep glancing at you, Kaku as well who was on your boat along with a now covered Kalifa due to Jabra donating his shirt to her. Their stares seeming to want to question you but holding back for whatever reason as they left the destroyed Enies Lobby behind.

Good riddance.

You may recall a handful of nice moments, but that island is not one you call home.

Back when they were at the island and Kumadori and Jabra recovered from their...breakdown, Bleuno wanted to ask you something than to. Only to meet your eyes and how gently yet firmly you were holding Lucci before he shook his head and used his Devil fruit ability to go back to your boat and start their travel. It would've been faster if you used Geppo against the water as you held your boat, feet kicking, but that would mean piling all their bodies on boat in a dog pile which would've been uncomfortable. Something that Kaku pointed out despite you mentioning the idea.

You finally landed in St. Poplar by the empty barren shores, helping Lucci out while the others assisted with Kaku and Kalifa. You placing Lucci carefully against a rock wall, his body leaning heavily against it and his head bowed.

"What are you doing?" Blueno, the first to finally ask as the others stared at you in quiet assessment and confusion.

You glanced at him, a neutral expression on your face.

"I dropped you guys off in the nearest island by the now destroyed Enies Lobby. If I didn't, all of you would've drowned. Well, most. You guys seemed to have woken up just in time before they would've sunken you along with the island."

Jabra's expression twisted, glancing away as he seemed to mutter Spandam's name with clenched fist before meeting your gaze once more.

"Why would you care?" Jabra sneered from his place. You glanced at him, the other CP9 members all waiting for a response, except for Lucci who was unconscious. "I remember how it was for you back than. It wasn't that long ago. You didn't grow up with us like we did in Guanhao, but we could tell based on your expressions and how you spoke you despised the work."

"Indeed," Kalifa interjected reaching for glasses that weren't there to be fixed, her hand falling, "you hate us. You despise us, what do you want from us? To perhaps kill us yourself?"

You sighed and scratched the back of your head, looking skyward.

"You guys are idiots."

Jabra and Kumadori seemed to take offense to that, as well Kalifa. If their offended expressions and yell of protests had anything to do with it. You don't get them. They were all just acting like idiots with you a bit ago. Well, Fukuro did. But Fukuro always seems eager to tell you things.

You pointedly looked at all of them, shutting them up with a look.

"I don't hate you guys. I never did."

And it was true. If you did, you would've left them. If you did, you would've left them to die.

If you did, then you knew you wouldn't care.

But you did care.

At their surprised gazes, you walked towards the sat up and unconscious Lucci, them letting you.

"Lucci needs a doctor. I've been to this island before. Also pretty good food..." You assessed him. You lightly touched his shoulders with the squared X's, you in thought as you looked at him.  "It should help you guys for now and get you guys back on your feet. You guys need to heal too and find some money to help with that."

Lucci always looked peaceful when he slept. You smirked at your thought as you pulled your hand back, and called out to the others to give Lucci a message when he wakes up.

"Tell him, 'You've been using it.'" Kalifa nodded and said they will tell it to him once he gets his treatment, you nodded gratefully towards her with a smile. Kalifa jumping in shock at the look towards her.

(Y/N)'s gaze then went towards Kaku. Who all this time has been silent and appeared to be brooding with a frown. A look that you recalled all those years ago but wished to remain in the past once you saw how free he looked in Water 7.

A bottled ship incomplete.

"You know Kaku, nothing's wrong with smiling or laughing sometimes." You said with a smile, Kaku glanced away from your gaze.

"I don't know what you're talking about Silver Blood." You slowly walked towards him, the long nosed man still not looking at you as you squatted in front of him. You turned his face towards your soft one with your finger, a questioning look on the young assassin's face.

"An assassin doesn't have to be cold all the time. A smile suits you so much better." Kaku's eyes widened as you gently let go of his chin, and walked towards your boat. Feeling the sense of a dream and a house at sea once more.

Jabra's glanced towards Kaku, who was looking at your form with a slowly forming soft gaze.

"Hey, you shouldn't look at her like that. She's Lucci's." Jabra's whispered to the new Zoan user, who only gave a shrug and a smile in response. It made Jabra want to smack him but instead he angrily whispered, "Fine, go ahead and get clawed, you know it all square giraffe!"

Kaku frowned at him.

"I like giraffes."

Jabra made a noise between disgust and a chortle, before your turned towards them in a wave.

"Can't wait to fight, Lucci! I'll be waiting!"

They all nodded, with Kumadori and Fukuro being the only one's who waved back. You didn't miss how Kaku gave you a thumbs up, something that made your smile widen as you turned your back towards them to face the incoming adventure. A sudden thought dawned on you however.

"Oi! Make sure you guys stay away from that bastard Spandam!"  From his character, you had a sneaking suspicion he would likely blame CP9 instead of himself on what happened with the Straw Hats and Enies Lobby. That's how that weak bastard was. If he didn't already. "He might pull a fast one on you guys."

Jabra gave a loud scoff as Blueno gave a slow nod.

"He already did. Me and Jabra had to watch ourselves as we maneuvered around the ruins. Soldiers were after us for being the reason the Buster Call was called and endangering everyone," Blueno slowly explained in his deep baritone. "Spandam is putting his mistake onto us."

"That man..." Kalifa gritted her teeth, moving to fix glasses that weren't there before lowering her hand. "That is sexual harassment of the highest caliber."

"Chapapapapa! Are we surprised? We know the kind of man Spandam is! Remember the puppy incident, Jabra?"

"Tch! Don't remind me! That little..." Jabra lifted both his hands, making a gesture as he envisioned Spandam between his hands to choke him and take that sick mocking grin out. "He's so having shit coming to him!"

"Yoyoi!" Kumadori interrupted, appearing in thought as he tapped his staff to his chin, one eyes in a permanent wink. "Guess there shouldn't be respect to the leader after all! But..." Kumadori suddenly kneeled and there were cherry blossoms that swayed in the breeze that came out of now where. "What shame! I must commit seppuku for following a man like that! I can...finally see my mother...!" Kumadori cried as he took one of Kaku's swords to thrust into his stomach only to bounce off with the use of Tekkai. "Ah! I'm alive!"

"If you're gonna die, commit to it!" Jabra yelled with ticks.

"Don't be so harsh, Jabra." Kaku said gently, already lips being quirked to placate. "We just have to make a plan when Lucci awakens on what to do about Spandam."

You were quietly thinking to yourself as the ex-CP9 agents went on, how you were right on the money with the type of man Spandam is. You gritted your teeth, your anger seeming to catch the attention of Kaku and Jabra for a moment due to it seeming to roll off of you before you tried to calm yourself down. Although it was difficult.

That man, you thought with jaw so tight you might actually break a tooth one day, has always been the worst.

You shook yourself, believing they can handle it. They've come this far after all and are still strong despite the Straw Hat's capabilities.

You turned to your boat, knowing that they just have to go to the hospital and pay the hospital fees to heal themselves and—

A stumbling lamb. A missed home run. A ship in a bottle half finished. Wooden clogs tapping off beat. A cape that's red unnaturally. Zipper caught.

You stopped. Your eyes staring at your boat that moved along the waves with a hard to read expression. Karasu was glinting on your hip, impatient and needy while Kuroi ten'nosabaki was under the sun, not doing anything at all besides being patient.

It...really has been awhile...

You turned. Your roving eyes meeting confused expressions of CP9 and an unconscious Lucci, only to grow more when you plastered a casual smirk with a hand to your hip.

"Despite the cat bastard being stubborn, he really needs a doctor. And ya'll being nothing but useless assassins—"

"Oi!" Jabra and Fukuro called.

"—you need some help with money. And since I've been here before..." You grin, arms going to the back of your head as you tapped the tip of your boot twice. "Guess I gotta show you guys around."

They blinked. And blinked once more, Kaku eye's widening and shining.

"Really?!"

"Yo-YoYoi," Kumadori looked like he was in the brink of tears. "Teardrops on my face, happiness soaring and true, you really have changed...!"

"Can you shut your blubbering mouth already?!" Jabra demanded, scowling as you kept smiled albeit with a small sweatdrop at Kumadori's antics.

"Chapapa!" Fukuro clapped his hands, hopping with one foot and than the other. "Lucci will like this."

Your smile turned mild as you walked past them, face turned towards the ground and avoiding Lucci's body that Blueno grabbed and tossed over his shoulder.

"I'm not staying till he wakes up."

CP9 blinked at you once more, you going towards your boat that you docked and tied with rope. Grabbing a small bag of money that you have and turning back. Kalifa watching you thoughtfully as you kept your gaze pointedly to the ground, hand to her chin. Before her gaze went towards Lucci's unconscious body as you explained to the others that you'll cover accommodations for them until they all can gather money for Lucci's hospital bill, Kalifa glancing back at you. Blueno speaking up as they began to all walk towards the center of the island of the Gourmet Country—Pucci, that with Kalifa's and Kaku's new Devil Fruit abilities they can make entertainment and help with mass cleaning.

Your eyes widened as you turned towards both of them. Kalifa fixing her assessing gaze as she took in your expressive face.

"What?! You guys have Devil Fruits now?!" At Kaku's proud little smile and Kalifa's nod, speaking of the horrible taste. Adding they received it when they came back to Enies Lobby. "Dang...good thing I got you guys before the whole island got completely turned over, huh? Y'all would've died."

CP9 blinked, mostly Fukuro, Kumadori and Jabra reacting the most with wide eyes at your concern and sincerity. They aren't used to how you've changed through the years. You grew distant and slightly standoffish when you were a part of them. Only appearing to act more animated with Lucci around. How you were when you first arrived.

Huh, Jabra thought and waved away the shock quickly as he focused back onto walking. Instead shouting at you they would've figured something out anyways with you only smirking and answering with "whatever you say", your gaze still down and not paying attention to where you're going. So this is the real you? Did the cat shit know?

Jabra got cut off from his thoughts that made his brows furrow from being lost in memory to when you left and how exactly you achieved it when they reached the city. You hitting your head against the pole and making you wince, but keeping your head and gaze down still. The action repeating with you bumping into civilians and the ex-CP9 members can only stare at you weirdly.

"Eh, (Y/N)," Kaku called from behind you kindly, you tilting your head slightly to show you heard as he continued with a confused small smile. "What are you doing?"

"I'm keeping my eyes down," you answer simply, almost biting your tongue when your head bumped harshly into another pole. "OW!"

"I've noticed you have been doing that since you collected the money," Kalifa pointed out, reaching fix her glasses needlessly only to once again be reminded they were lost. She lowered her hand and hoped no one noticed. "And your gaze keeps avoiding Blueno and Lucci."

"I've noticed it as well," Blueno added, as you kept walking and bumping into people and muttering sorry or saying "Ow" when you bump into a pole or a random decorative tree that was in the middle of the street for whatever reason. Pretty stupid really. "You're avoiding gazing at Lucci."

Kaku blinked, frowning as he stared at the back of your bowed head, your hands in your pockets casually as you walked to a tavern or motel to put down their stuff.

"I can't look at him anymore." Their brows furrowed at your quiet yet resolute answer. Fukuro, ever the nosy one, asking why. You stared down at your combat boots as you walked, observing offhandedly the cracks and crevices of this cobblestone road, a knowing smile playing on your lips. "He wouldn't like it. Not like this."

Kalifa's eyes widened, her finally connecting what she observed earlier.

To not see him weak like this. Beaten. My, Kalifa couldn't help but smile, hiding a chuckle behind her hand as you knocked into another pole. They both have always been ridiculous.

Blueno seeming to share the thought as he turned his eyes momentarily skyward. Ignoring as Fukuro made a pleased sound that promises trouble later if they don't make sure he keeps his mouth shut and Kumadori's hair moving wildly at your words.

Jabra's brows furrowed even more, creating lines across his face as he thought long and hard. Before scoffing, not sure if he wanted to laugh or just keep grinning, feral. He is so going to poke at the cat shit later.

Kaku blinked, glancing between Lucci's unconscious body and the back of your head. Before something clicked as he moved to start walking next to you and help guide you to not hit anything else. You thanking him but he only lifted his bloodied lips in one side, hand flicking his cap upwards.

"You wouldn't like it either." Your eyes went to Kaku's knowing ones, a soft earthy brown. "Right, (Y/N)?"

You huffed out your nose, lips up.

"No. I'd hate it too."

Kaku's smile widened, able to read you and you seeming to not mind. Your own smile widening at how Kaku's smile could be quite bright.

"You're taking my words seriously I see!" You laughed, elbowing his side and making Kaku double over, injuries still clear as he flinched with a hand going to side. You panicked. "Ah! Sorry!"

Kaku huffed a laugh, waving away your apologies and only glancing down at you with a pained smile. Yet your brows furrowed when you spotted a mischievous gleam in his eyes.

"Now you just need to take mine, seriously. Perhaps when we get new clothes besides these torn ones?" Kaku made a show to pinch his scuffed and bloody jacket from his battle.

You recognizing what he meant with a small flush as you turned away, crossing your arms.

"My clothes are fine! They're not torn like yours anyways!"

"Is that not part of your old uniform for us? Perhaps a change may be nice."

"Why is everybody always on my style?! I like it! It's comfortable and I'm used to it!"

Kalifa came to your other side, her eyes seeming to flash knowingly.

"An outfit to show more of your appeal can help you in the long run. Although it wouldn't match mine obviously."

"Wha—?! WHO ASKED YOU?!"

"Gyaaa ha ha ha! Let's do it! Kalifa, dress (Y/N) again!" Jabra added unhelpfully.

"Yoyoi! The return of the deadly flower is a worthy venture to do once more!"

"Is this necessary at the moment?" Blueno deadpanned.

"Lame~. Chapapapa, it's no fun if Lucci isn't awake. He was quite affected last time for that mission."

Everyone outside of you gave Fukuro a glare, Kaku adding a frown towards the man.

At least I wasn't as obvious as Lucci when that happened, Kaku resisted the urge to scratch his nose at the memory of you in the skin tight slitted dress for the mission. He couldn't stop the heat to his cheeks though. If only she would be more comfortable in that type of attire...

"I don't know what you guys are talking about. He hated it. Could barely look my way and talk to me face to face—he just kept ignoring me! The bastard!" You clenched your fists in the memory, wishing to punch it away. "So annoying!"

Affected, everyone thought with a deadpan and a sweatdrop.

-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-

It soon started to rain, you and the others quickly getting a room at a tavern for at least Lucci to rest. You knocking into tables and chairs, even the countertop to avoid staring at the Neko's body. You didn't care for the weird looks from others or the exasperated ones from CP9, only thanking Kaku if he helped guide you quick enough. You rather him rest anyways as well, he's the worst injured outside of Lucci.

You were outside the door of the room, Fukuro and Kaku within resting while the others went out even in the rain to collect money to be admitted to the hospital here. Your arms were crossed as you leaned against the wooden wall, your blouse soaked through once more due to the downpour. You already did your best on wringing it out. Same with your shorts. Although you were uncomfortable in your combat boots, you can handle it.

There's worse things than being wet.

"Just how you are eager to get wet once more I imagine."

You flushed, before waving the memory away.

Stupid reptile, you thought with an annoyed scowl. What a weird memory to be brought up. But that reminds me...

You straightened, you glancing away to the hallway where it'll lead back to the bar. Maybe they might have a newspaper.

Only for a small blanket on the corner of your vision appear. You glanced at Kaku who held it out to you with a smile.

"This can help you dry off, (Y/N)." You gave him a smile of your own, saying your thanks and wrapping the blanket around your shoulders tightly. Rubbing it on your arms as Kaku's smile seemed to widen at how warm you look now, moving to stand at the other side of the slightly open door to the room with his arms crossed. Kaku glanced towards the room before looking back at you as you rubbed your face on the blanket, muttering praises to it but he didn't pay any mind. Besides you looking cute doing that. "Say...I have an inquiry..."

You gave him a questioning stare. Kaku's brows seeming to furrow as he went to open his mouth.

Would anything have made you stay? Kaku moved his mouth closed, before sighing as he shook his head with a unfeeling smile. Instead fixing you with a melancholic gaze and lips quirked to match.

"We missed you."

You blinked, eyes widening in surprise and cheeks slightly flushing before you released a laugh. It made Kaku's lips form genuinely at the sound.

"That's not a question!"

"I know. I just wanted to say it."

"Still pretty blunt with your words, eh? Careful you don't start a fight with Jabra like that. You know how he is."

Kaku let out a chuckle, hand rubbing the back of his neck.

"Jabra finds any excuse to start a fight. You should've seen him when Fukuro compared all our Doriki's. Upset that I gained strength during my time away. Said some nonsense that strength is only about physical."

"...was he calling himself smart?"

Kaku only grinned and you laughed at that, Kaku staring at how you kept the blanket bunched around you as your shoulders shook.

It's fine either way. I like seeing you like this. Compared to before. You look more...Kaku stared as you cleared a happy tear from your eyes, mentioning something or other about Jabra sure hasn't changed and the others haven't either. Free.

He wonders if he can ask you for a sword lesson for old times sake, however. The stray thought brought stray memories of how close you would get to guide him on when to parry or do a feint, hand over his and chest pressing against his back.

Kaku's ears flushed red at his thoughts as he tried to get his bearings and add to the conversation without outwardly stuttering.

A nosy lone eye behind the door though, with hand to zipped lips, watched and listened eagerly to the conversation.

Hattori cooed next to his master, slight nudging of a feathered head to a tanned hand before settling once more.

-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-

Soon after that, the others came back and it was Fukuro's and Kaku's turn to earn money. You don't mind leaving the others, they'll be fine. You just want to see exactly what Kaku's Devil Fruit power is as they went back into the rain towards the main plaza where there's a lot of foot traffic.

And you weren't disappointed!

"You're a giraffe?!" You exclaimed.

Kaku, who was transformed to his animal form and not his mixed one as he let kids slide on his neck for some dollar, looked down at you.

"I like giraffes," Kaku said instinctively. He couldn't help it due to Jabra's words and laughing at him. He knows you aren't the type to do something like that but...

His eyes widened at your next words.

"When everybody is done, it's my turn!" You said with a small bounce on your step, making a puddle of rain splash under your boots. "I want to slide down too!"

Kaku's giraffe cheeks flushed. Your expression practically shining up at his face.

A zip that kept zipping open and closed from kids, forced itself open despite a kids complaint.

"Only kids get rides, Chapapapa!"

You made a face.

"That's not nice! I want a ride too!"

Kaku will not faint. He will not.

His cheeks will redden further however and he wants to hide behind his cap.

"I'm telling Lucci."

Your face formed into confusion.

"What does he have to do with this?"

"Shut up, Fukuro." Kaku muttered, giraffe face trying to hide under his small cap to no avail. He's trying not to scare the kids away by glaring at Fukuro either. "You won't say anything."

"Why not—"

Kaku pointedly stared at the child that Fukuro ignored to speak and not let them play with his unique mouth.

"You get a free slide if you manage to get his zipper stuck."

"Ehhhh?!" Fukuro squeaked in his high voice.

The child replied with a hand up.

"Make it five, mister."

Kaku sweatdropped.

"A hard bargain. But acceptable."

"I want to do it too!" A child piped up with a hand raised.

"Me too! I can make it stuck!"

"Yeah! I got my zipper stuck one time when I tried peeing and my mom had to—"

"Shush, child!" The mother shouted with an embarrassed expression.

"Kaku! Stop this!"

Kaku stared at the mob of children and offering more money to do the mission of shutting Fukuro up. Still sweatdropping but smiling to himself.

"I'm afraid I can't. They've already paid."

"Chapapapa! No—" Zip closed. Zip open. "I can't go without gossiping—" Zip closed. Zip open. "I-I—Fine! I won't say anything to Lucci but—" Zip closed. Zip halfway open only to close quick again. An attempt to make it stuck. "Chapaaa~! Fine! Not anyone! Please—"

"I'm sorry, Fukuro." Kaku said a little too seriously. "A mission given should be completed."

"Chapapapa—"

"Man," you said, scratching the back of your neck as you stared at the mob of kids trying to shut Fukuro up. Good luck with that really. The sight did make you slightly laugh though at how the kids climbed atop of him and brought him to the ground. "You sure made a good plan to get more money, Kaku!" Kaku only smiled as he let kids slide down his long elongated neck due to his transformation. You staring up at him seriously, holding a finger up as rain continues to pour on them. "I still want one too though."

"A-Ah, Hai."

You beamed and Kaku felt himself starting to grow more and more determined to not listen to Jabra's words.

If Lucci won't be truthful, than I will. Kaku determined. Only growing more when they received the money and everyone left. Fukuro too tired to get up even though no one managed to get his mouth fully closed and permanently. Kaku letting you slide down his neck, but this time in his half Zoan and half human form due to the length of his neck being longer and "More fun to slide!" based on your words. Listening to your joyous laughter all the while as you asked to go again and Kaku couldn't help but say yes even though he was tired from his injuries. Still. He can't say no. I didn't understand back than...but I know why you did what you did with that phone call, Lucci. Even if you perhaps couldn't admit it yourself.

Kaku really thinks you were always supposed to look like this. As you laugh with arms raised to the dark pouring sky as you went down once more.

And when you asked afterwords as they went back what made him get the idea to receive money due to being a giraffe, Kaku easily replied that a green haired swordsman mentioned a zoo, you chuckled. Smirking that appeared more like a grin due to the flash of teeth but he doesn't know what else to call it as you said easily that sounds like something the brooding swordsman would say. Reminding you of someone.

Kaku got the sense, that maybe he should be mindful with you.

The rumors may have some truth after all.

-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-

Once they finally admitted Lucci to the hospital, and them able to get extra cash to get clothes and food, they talk about watches for Lucci and there should be a person each shift.

You raised a hand, outside the hospital room that the others were in but able to be seen by the doorway. The doctors and nurses able to stabilize Lucci for now until they go do their rounds.

"I can have night shift. I'll be outside by his window on the roof to keep Hattori company."

"The whole shift?" Jabra questioned, bewildered as he leaned against medical equipment only to almost fall. He ignored the others glares as he righted the equipment and cleared his throat. "You gonna wake one of us up in the middle of the night to get you?"

"That's the safest bet," Kalifa commented, fixing her glasses from her seat next to Lucci. "You will need your rest."

You shook your head even though you knew they couldn't see you. Your eyes roving over the hospital hallways, the antiseptic solutions that anyone could tell they were in a hospital making your nose itch. You hate hospitals.

"Nah. I don't sleep much either way. Ain't a big deal."

"Yoyoi! Than wouldn't it be best if you came into the room and got comfortable in a chair, (Y/N)?" Kumadori asked from his spot on the foot of the unconscious Lucci's bed. "The rain could come again if you stay outside! Surely it's fine now since Lucci is now in the hospital? He's hidden in blankets!"

A zip.

"Not that hidden. But he does have a lot of bandages. I heard the doctor said Lucci broke a lot of ribs and had internal bleeding."

It was quiet for a moment. Everyone's moods within the room seeming to be downcast and stony faced.

Your head was facing forward, eyes shadowed under your cap.

"I won't see anymore than I have. With or without bandages. Defeat," you said, tone knowing, "is not something to be looked upon more than needed."

Hattori gave an answering Coo at the window, wings fluttering and CP9 accepted your words and reasoning with different conclusions. Jabra pinching his brows together as he glanced in your direction back towards the bruised and battered Lucci, bandages encircling his raven head and upon his cheeks as well as encircling his bare abdomen. Appearing in deep thought before he got interrupted by Blueno volunteering Jabra to have first watch.

Him obviously complaining and you trying hard to not smile even though they couldn't see you as Jabra's refusals brought a concerned nurse to come to see the commotion and for them to not cause a ruckus for the other patients. Everyone immediately putting the blame on Jabra and Kalifa even adding that this is sexual harassment. The nurse's eyes widening as she moved to use a walk-in talkie to bring security to take Jabra to the police for horrible downtrodden behavior. Jabra's cheeks flushing all the while as he demanded for Kalifa to retract her statement only for her to fix her glasses needlessly and making them flash in the light as she stated seriously she retracts nothing.

You were outwardly not trying to laugh but couldn't help but guffaw when Jabra was taken away with crossed arms by guards before Kaku finally decided to speak up and say there was a misunderstanding. His old dialect and easy appearance making the nurse calm and Kalifa say she may have meant someone else and not Jabra. It didn't stop Jabra from glaring her way when the security and nurse left, his new clothes dirtied due to being dragged.

Blueno saying flatly this all could've been avoided if he didn't make such a fuss. Jabra only grumbling and cursing to himself as he sat on the chair, slouched to the point where he might fall onto the floor due to how low he was in the chair.

You added that you'll stay until you believe everything is well. The ex-CP9 member's  raising brows besides Kaku whose smile was wide at the news of you staying longer. The others shaking their heads and shrugging off your words.

But you can't help it.

You hanging with the others after shifts have switched, you with Blueno, Fukuro, Jabra and Kaku in front of a cafe as you rested your head onto your hand with a (favorite ice cream/sundae/cold dessert) on the table along with the others own chosen treats. Listening to the others trading pokes and prods, adding your own if needed. Including now as Kaku pointed out Jabra taking out the orange slice on the rim of his sundae in disgust.

"You should keep your fruit intake, Jabra," Kaku joked, pointing at how careful Jabra was being, Straw within the wolf Zoan's mouth. "You eat too much like a child."

"Chapapapa~, even kids like oranges." Fukuro laughed, holding his cup of coffee.

"Shut up," Jabra stated with no heat and around the straw, coming out garbled as he placed the orange slice on the napkin beside him.

You snorted, head tilting at him, hand to your cheek.

"Jabra is more childish than a child. Huh, Jabra? I still remember the pups you would feed back then."

Jabra's cheeks colored out of embarrassment, snapping at you with harsh teeth.

"Shut up! I don't need you to speak of that!"

"Pfft, come on! I'm only joking!"

"Yeah, and acting like you weren't the same. Don't forget you helped me sometimes when it came to annoying Lucci."

You waved your hand dismissively at him.

"Only if they were good. Sometimes you were annoying yourself, ya know. That spam prank was nasty."

Something in Jabra's eyes seemed to alight, and then an emotion you couldn't quite catch. Him seeming to study you. You heard him mutter under his breath to what you believe was "You weren't the only one..." but before you could question it, your eyes caught a fry that was going into Kaku's mouth.

Kaku took a bite out of the long rectangle shaped food, pausing at your blank look.

You looked at the fry.

You looked at Kaku's nose.

Jabra, who was doing the same thing, glanced at you just as you did the same.

As soon as your eyes connected, the both of you guffawed. Tears going down both of your cheeks as Jabra punched the table and you could only hold your stomach.

Kaku's cheeks were colored now. He looked like he was pouting, connecting what you two did. It only made you and Jabra laugh more. Blueno lifted the newspaper he was reading closer to his face, but no one can deny his amused eyes. Fukuro couldn't help but join in.

"Alright, alright. It is not that humorous," Kaku commented, eyes under his cap looking down at the table.

"French fry nose!" Jabra added unhelpfully.

"Chapapapa~! Someone might get mistaken and dip it in ketchup!"

Kaku only pouted more, mouth to the side as his gaze turned too serious. It made you grin and grab his cheek playfully.

"Hey, hey. No need to frown about it! It's cute!"  Kaku's eyes widened, his cheek feeling hotter under your fingers as you kept going with a smile. "Everyone likes fries after all!"

You let go of his cheek to turn to Blueno, putting another mouthful of your treat as you did so, mouth holding the spoon. Kaku could only stare and touch his cheek that still felt your touch. You paused from playing around with your spoon Blueno was serious, him laying the newspaper down upon the table.

"It seems Spandam relayed to his father his version of the events," Blueno lifted his gaze to meet the others. "He has fully given us the blame about the destruction of Enies Lobby. Although we did fail in defeating the Straw Hats and detaining Nico Robin, he has completely taken himself out as one of the main reasons. Our old director believes him. It seems he will continue to deny his son's transgressions and complete lack of leadership. We should not be surprised if they aim to capture or kill us for this."

Spandam, you thought distastefully, jaw tight around the utensil and fists on your lap. Nothing you do surprises me. You are the worst.

You shouldn't be surprised by Spandine either, your old director for four years before Spandam came in. Spandine did not treat you like Spandam did, more distant and cold. Perhaps some comments here and there, but it was nothing like what you had to go through with Spandam in charge. You don't how Spandine raised his son, but he needs some parental lessons. Too late now though. Ugh, now you're thinking if Spandam decided to reproduce.

Your face twisted into heavy disgust at the thought, almost missing the conversation between the others and dropping your spoon. Their own faces a mix of anger, irritation or thought.

"Tch, maybe some of us anyways." Jabra scoffed, harshly biting his straw between his mouth as he glared at his sundae.

"True! Chapapapa~! The World Government enjoy using Lucci too much to dispose of him." You stayed silent as Fukuro continued, instead finding the condensation on your own glass treat cup very interesting at the moment. "Can't be called the World's Government Massacre Weapon anymore if he's wanted along with all of us."

You poked at a drop of condensation on your treat cup before it slid down to the table, feeling the coolness at the tip of your finger.

"It still will not change the measures that will be taken against us." Kaku supplied seriously. "We must perform a plan for counter measures when the time comes. We should not hold disbelief if they might be sending officers after us to this island even now. There are only so many islands we could have escaped to from Enies Lobby. They will narrow it down to here—St. Poplar—or Pucci."

You moved you gaze along with the spoon within your mouth to one side, hiding in your inner cheek as you tapped the tip of your boot underneath the table to the ground.

"We'll handle it when the time comes," Blueno concluded.