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The Red Dawn Pirates' ship was alive with laughter and music as it sailed smoothly through the open sea, the excitement palpable among the crew. After the tense escape from Loguetown, the atmosphere aboard was almost euphoric. The party had started the moment the ship had everyone back on board with Garp nowhere in sight, and now, with Reverse Mountain set in their sights, the crew was determined to celebrate their narrow escape in style.

The ship's deck was illuminated by hanging lanterns made by Apple, their soft glow mingling with the bright light of a full moon. Barrels of rum were rolled out, and makeshift tables had been set up, laden with food and drinks. The sound of clanking mugs, raucous laughter, and the occasional burst of song filled the air. Several crew members were dancing, the rhythmic thud of their feet matching the beat of a drum that someone had unearthed from below deck.

Kaito stood near the main mast, a broad grin on his face as he raised his cup to his crew. "Listen up, everyone!" He shouted, his voice carrying over the noise. The crew quieted down only marginally, turning their attention to him. He gestured to Zoro, who was standing slightly apart, arms crossed and a bemused expression on his face as he took in the wild scene.

"This here is Roronoa Zoro," Kaito declared, clapping Zoro on the back with enough force to make the swordsman stagger slightly. "He's a swordfish, so don't take it personally if he doesn't remember your name. If you're not a sword, he probably won't care!" The crew burst into laughter, a few of them raising their tankards in mock salute to Zoro, who simply shook his head with a faint scowl.

"A swordfish?" Zoro repeated scornfully, glancing at Kaito. "That's what you're going with? Tch.."

Kaito grinned wider, eyes twinkling with mischief. "It's better than what I could have said," He replied. "Just enjoy the party, Zoro. You'll get plenty of time to train once we're in the Grand Line. For now, relax and get drunk. It's good for you!"

Zoro's lips twitched at that, not one to say no to a drink. "I guess I'll play along with it this once." He accepted the cup that was thrust into his hand by an eager crew member, eyeing the contents before deciding it didn't matter anyway and downing it. The rum was strong and burned its way down his throat, but he could handle it. He glanced around at the sea of unfamiliar faces, feeling the weight of their curiosity and camaraderie.

He had never been a people person. The sea of faces staring at him made him itch for someone to fight. Someone in the back cheerfully called out, "Looks like a total Mosshead!"

Zoro's face twitched as he got a rictus grin on his face, "Someone wants to die, huh!?" He roared.

Kaito nodded approvingly, clapping Zoro on the back again. "That's the spirit! You've got to get to know everyone. It's a rowdy bunch, but they're good people." He gave Zoro a final encouraging nod before bounding away to join another group of crew members, leaving Zoro to fend for himself among his new shipmates.

A fight broke out immediately, but that was okay, they were pirates, it was supposed to be like that, Kaito felt it was important to be authentic to their culture.

Nearby, Carina, Nami, and Apple had claimed a corner of the deck, their table overflowing with empty glasses and half-eaten platters of fruit and cheese. Apple, cheeks flushed with the warmth of alcohol, was laughing loudly at something Nami had said, her arm draped loosely around the navigator's waist, because she was too short to reach her shoulders.

Or so Kaito thought, knowing better then to say anything as he passed by.

"I'm telling you, Nami, we should have stolen all the maps at the Marine base!" Apple insisted, her voice slurring slightly as she reached for her drink. "I mean if only to make fun of them, you've seen some of the ones we've got from them before - barely better than a toddler's doodles!" She cackled, squeezing Nami slightly, "Nothing like yours."

Nami giggled, shaking her head. "I know, I know, but we have to pick our battles, Apple. No point getting killed over some scribbles when we're headed to the Grand Line anyway."

Carina, who was leaning back in her chair with a watchful expression, raised an eyebrow. "Speaking of battles, you two should slow down a bit," She advised, a hint of amusement in her voice. "We've still got a long way to go, and I'd rather not have to haul your drunk asses up Reverse Mountain." She was also kind off their designated adult.

For two people with mixed feelings for each other they tended to get into trouble easily. Especially with alcohol involved.

Apple made a face, waving her hand dismissively. "You're such a buzzkill, Carina! We're celebrating! We got out of that mess in Loguetown without losing anyone. That's worth a few drinks, right?" She turned to Nami, who nodded in agreement, her own movements a bit more controlled but still loose with the effects of the alcohol.

Nami had better alcohol tolerance then most of the crew, but that didn't mean she was unaffected, hence her closeness to Apple again where they stepped more lightly when sober.

"Maybe," Carina allowed, but her eyes remained sharp, watching them both carefully. "Just remember, there's a difference between celebrating and being reckless." She picked up a glass of water, sipping it as if to make a point. "Someone has to stay sober enough to steer the ship." Or keep you two separated and the pants on…

Nami rolled her eyes good-naturedly. "Fine, Mom," She teased, blowing a raspberry, but there was no heat in her words. "We'll keep it together."

Apple giggled, leaning against Nami. "Yeah, yeah. Just let us have a little fun. Besides, aren't you supposed to be the thief here? Shouldn't you be stealing shit instead of hoarding water?"

Carina's lips curved into a sly smile. "Oh, I'm just biding my time. You'll see."

As the three women continued their playful banter, the rest of the crew was similarly engaged in their own lively conversations and antics. Wire, his expression a mix of irritation and bemusement, was making his rounds across the deck, flanked by Dice and Tears. His sharp eyes scanned the various groups, ensuring that no one was getting too rowdy or neglecting their duties.

While the party was ongoing, they still needed to perform their duties, they weren't in the Grand Line yet, but that didn't mean they couldn't get in trouble if they weren't watchful.

"Keep an eye on the fucking helm, Dice," Wire instructed, his voice low but firm. "I don't want any surprises while we're partying like shit faced bitches. We're still on watch, no matter what."

Dice nodded, his usual demeanor replaced with a more serious expression. "Got it, Wire. I'll make sure everything's in order." He peeled off heading for the helm with a mocking salute, making Wire scowl at him.

Tears, meanwhile, was checking on the ship's rigging, his nimble fingers ensuring that the sails were properly secured despite the festivities. He glanced over at Wire, his eyes narrowing slightly. "We're not going to lose anyone overboard, are we?" He asked dryly, tilting his head in the direction of a few rowdy crewmen dancing on the railing.

Wire scowled. "Not if I have anything to say about it. These idiots might be celebrating, but I'm not going to let them forget we've got work to do." He stomped over, shouting at the idiots dancing drunkenly on the railings, making one actually fall, only Wire shooting off his hand saving the man as he floated him back on deck.

Nearby, Blackjack, the youngest member of the crew, was weaving his way through the crowd, his small frame darting between legs and barrels with the practiced ease of someone used to being overlooked. He spotted Zoro standing by himself, watching the celebration with an unreadable expression, having finished his brief scuffle and immediately sought solitude. Blackjack's eyes lit up with mischief.

"Hey, you!" Blackjack called, skidding to a stop in front of Zoro. "You're the new guy, right? You like sharp things?" Without waiting for a response, the kid pulled a collection of small knives from his belt, each one gleaming wickedly in the lantern light. "Check these out! I've got all kinds - throwing knives, switchblades, even this one!" He held up a particularly vicious-looking dagger with a serrated edge. "I stab people." He whispered out of the corner of his mouth.

Zoro blinked, taken aback by the boy's sudden enthusiasm. "Uh, sure... Nice knives, kid," He muttered awkwardly, glancing down at the array of blades Blackjack was showing off. "You… Collect these?" He asked with a grimace, determined to at least attempt to fit in.

Blackjack grinned, his eyes gleaming with pride. "Nah, I use them! For fighting and stabbing or mugging, mostly, but sometimes just for fun." He spun one of the knives expertly between his fingers before flipping it into the air and catching it by the hilt. "Pretty cool, huh, hub?"

Zoro wasn't sure how to respond to the kid's apparent bloodlust. He looked around, half-expecting someone to come and take the boy away, but no one seemed to be paying them any mind. "Cool," He said lamely, scratching the back of his head.

He supposed they were all pirates, but there was something weird with a kid talking so casually about stabbing people. Zoro had as a kid, but that was different, swords were appropriate stabbing implements for kids after all.

Blackjack's grin widened. "I knew you'd get it! You're a swordsman, after all. That means you've got to like sharp stuff, right?"

Zoro smirked despite himself, relaxing a little. If the kid liked swords he couldn't be all bad. "I guess that's true," He admitted, watching as Blackjack pulled out yet another knife, this one smaller and more ornate. The kid's enthusiasm was infectious, if a bit concerning.

"Hey, maybe you can show me some sword moves sometime!" Blackjack suggested, his eyes wide with excitement. "I bet you could teach me how to cut people up real good!"

Zoro's smirk faltered, where's this brats minder? "Maybe we should start with the basics," He said slowly, glancing around as if searching for someone to rescue him from the conversation. "Like… The fact a knife is not a sword… And no stabbing people."

He didn't have anything against it per say, but it felt like someone should be a responsible adult, and having met Kaito… Zoro realized he might have to be it. Kids shouldn't stab people… Unless it was sword training.

Blackjack tilted his head, clearly confused. "But why?And it's like a small sword anyway, right!?" He seemed genuinely puzzled by the idea that there might be a reason not to use his knives on people.

Before Zoro could figure out how to respond to that, Archer appeared, carrying a massive platter piled high with roasted meats, grilled vegetables, and freshly baked bread. His grin was as wide as ever, and he practically radiated joy as he made his way through the crowd, dishing out food to the crew.

"Eat up, everyone!" Archer called, his voice booming over the noise. "No one's going hungry tonight!" He plopped a large portion of food onto Zoro's lap, the swordsman barely managing to catch it before it overflowed. "You look like you could use some meat on those bones, new guy," He teased, giving Zoro a hearty pat on the back that nearly sent him sprawling.

This guy's tough, Zoro thought, immediately studying the musculature of the large man, disappointed to find an obvious martial artist instead of a swordsman, but if he was strong he could make a good sparring partner anyway.

Zoro steadied himself from almost getting filed in half by the friendly pat from the crew chef, a small smirk tugging at his lips. "Thanks for the food, up for a spar?" He said, eyeing the heaping pile of food. He hadn't realized how hungry he was until he smelled the savory aroma wafting from the platter. Taking a chunk of roasted meat, he bit into it, savoring the rich flavors. "This is really good," He admitted, looking up at Archer with genuine appreciation.

Zoro had eaten a lot of… Questionable things during his travels, it wasn't his fault, wherever he went restaurants and shops and entire villages would just randomly move away so that when he turned around they weren't there anymore.

Archer beamed, clearly pleased at the compliment. "Glad you like it! There's plenty more where that came from, so don't be shy. Gotta keep your strength up, right?" He smirked, some battlelust shining through, "As for a spar… Not during the party."

Zoro nodded, already digging into the rest of his plate, pleased to have recognized some bloodlust in the giant man. Blackjack, still hovering nearby, looked up at Archer with wide eyes. "Can I have some more, too?" He asked, his tone more respectful than when he'd been talking to Zoro.

Archer chuckled, ruffling the kid's hair with his free hand. "Of course, kid. But remember, don't take more than your share, practice stealing on others, not crew." He handed Blackjack a smaller portion, his expression softening as the boy grabbed it eagerly and scampered off to a quieter corner to eat.

Zoro watched him go, a curious look on his face. "Is he always like that?"

Archer shrugged, his grin never fading. "Pretty much. Blackjack's a good kid, just a bit… Intense. He's got a thing for knives or throwing weapons in general and grew up with criminals so he's not exactly housebroken, but we keep an eye on him. As long as he doesn't start carving up the crew, he's fine."

Zoro snorted at that, shaking his head. "You've got an interesting bunch here." Not what I had pictured for myself even a day earlier, he admitted to himself.

But then the strength of Kaito had been a lure too powerful to ignore. Zoro wanted that strength.

Archer laughed, his broad shoulders shaking. "That's one way to put it! But hey, it's never boring. And you're part of the crew now, so get used to it!" He gave Zoro another hearty slap on the back before moving on, handing out more food and joking with the crew.

As the party continued, Kaito made his way through the different groups, his energy infectious as he checked on everyone. He stopped by the helm, where Wire was now overseeing the ship's course with Dice and Tears standing nearby, their eyes scanning the deck looking for slackers, used to having to party later by the din of being Wire's main go to men.

"How's it going up here?" Kaito asked, leaning against the railing with a grin. "Everything under control?"

Wire nodded, his expression slightly exasperated. "Yeah, everything's fucking fine, Captain pain in my ass. Just making sure no one falls overboard or sets the ship on fire." Wire glared at him, "That is not an invitation to set the ship on fire, by the fucking way!"

Kaito laughed, shooting Wire some finger guns. "Good to hear! Last thing we need is to start the Grand Line adventure by sinking the ship." He clapped Wire on the shoulder, giving him a reassuring smile. "Don't work too hard, alright? You should enjoy the party, too, I promise any fires will be kept to a minimum."

Wire's mouth twitched in what might have been a smile. "I'll enjoy it when I'm sure we're not about to hit a sudden iceberg."

Kaito chuckled. "Fair enough. Keep up the good work." He turned to Dice and Tears, raising his cup in a mock salute. "You two holding up okay? The two sacrifices to Wire's dark party pooping?"

"Oy!" Wire grumbled.

Dice grinned, his usual carefree demeanor returning now that the ship seemed to be in order. "You know us, Captain. Just keeping things smooth." He glanced at Tears, who was adjusting a rope with practiced ease. "And making sure no one breaks anything important."

Tears gave Kaito a small nod, his eyes gleaming in the lantern light. "We've got it covered, Captain. You just keep everyone in line down there."

Kaito winked at him. "That's the plan." He left them to their duties, weaving his way through the crowd again.

The party showed no signs of slowing down, the crew's laughter and voices growing louder as the night went on. Near the prow of the ship, Yoruichi and Duel were sitting close together, their heads bent as they whispered to each other. The rest of the crew kept a respectful distance, casting wary glances in their direction.

Nothing good could come from the two of them collaborating on something.

"Think, will, work?" Duel murmured, her voice so low that even the crashing waves nearly drowned it out.

Yoruichi's lips curved into a sly smile. "If we're careful. We just need the right timing and the right bait. No one will see it coming."

Duel's eyes flicked to the crew around them, who were doing their best to look anywhere but at the two women. "No. Mistakes." She cautioned.

Yoruichi's smile widened. "Relax. I've got this under control." She reached out, giving Duel's shoulder a reassuring squeeze. "Trust me. We'll pull it off, and no one will know until it's too late."

Duel nodded slowly, her expression thoughtful. "All in." She agreed.

Kaito, who had been lingering nearby, caught sight of their secretive huddle and raised an eyebrow. He sauntered over, his grin teasing. "What are you two plotting over here? Should I be worried?" He lowered his voice, "Is it a threesome?"

Yoruichi looked up, her smile mischievous. "Oh, nothing, Captain. Just a little plan to keep things interesting." She leaned back, stretching her arms lazily. "You'll find out soon enough."

Duel struck out at him, Kaito only barely dodging the fist to his crotch, "Rather, Die!" She said with a sweet slasher smile.

Kaito chuckled, shaking his head, keeping a wary eye on Duel. "Just don't blow up the ship, okay? My body can take all that you dish out, all night long…"

Duel's lips twitched in what might have been amusement, might have been murderous rage, it was hard to tell when she locked her expression down, "No promise." She said ominously.

Kaito rolled his eyes, still grinning as he moved on. He spotted Carina sitting with Nami and Apple again, the three women now talking quietly, their earlier laughter replaced by more subdued conversation. Carina's sharp eyes met Kaito's as he approached, and she gave him a slight nod.

"Everything alright over here?" He asked, his tone casual. Considering previous issues, he liked to keep an extra eyes on two of these ladies in particular.

Carina shrugged. "Just making sure these two don't overdo it. Someone has to be the responsible one." Which was fair enough, she looked absolutely disgusted about the fact the responsible one was her, though.

Apple made a face, sticking out her tongue. "Bo~ring!"

Nami giggled, though she looked a bit more alert now, her posture straighter. "We're fine, Kaito. Just winding down a bit." She murmured, cheeks pinking slightly as she tried to extricate herself from Apple.

Kaito smiled, his gaze lingering on the trio. "Good to hear. You've earned a break, all of you." He gave Carina a pointed look. "Especially you. Don't overwork yourself, it's nice you're keeping an eye out, but everyone should get to party, let me know if you need to switch out."

Carina's smile was faint but genuine. "I'll try, but I think I'll do a better job, no offense."

Kaito left them to their conversation, his heart swelling with pride as he looked around at his crew. They were a wild bunch, each with their own quirks and secrets, but they were his crew. And they were heading into the Grand Line together. They'd already achieved so much…

And now they could really work on getting stronger, and kick the Grand Lines ass!

As the night wore on, the party slowly began to wind down. The crew's laughter grew softer, the music fading into the background as exhaustion set in. Some of the more enthusiastic partiers had already passed out on the deck, snoring loudly as they lay sprawled among the scattered remains of the feast.

Zoro, who had finally managed to escape Blackjack's relentless questioning, found himself leaning against the railing, staring out at the dark sea. He had a half-empty cup in his hand, the drink forgotten as he lost himself in thought. It had been a long time since he'd been part of a group, and this one… Well, it was definitely different.

Trying to compare a pirate crew to a dojo was pointless anyways.

"Deep in thought, Zoro?" Kaito's voice broke through his reverie, and Zoro glanced over to see the captain leaning against the railing beside him, his own cup in hand.

Zoro shrugged. "Just thinking about what's ahead."

Kaito nodded, his gaze drifting out over the water. "The Grand Line's no joke. It's going to be tough, and dangerous. But it'll be worth it." He smirked, "It's the challenge you want anyway, and it's where your prize will be one day."

Zoro took a sip of his drink, his eyes steady. "I'm ready. I joined to get stronger, and I'll do whatever it takes to make that happen."

Kaito grinned, his expression fierce. "I have no doubt about that. And we'll make sure you get there. We're going to face some crazy stuff, but that's what makes it fun, right?"

Zoro snorted, a faint smile tugging at his lips. "I guess you could say that."

Kaito raised his cup, his eyes gleaming with determination. "To the Grand Line, then. And to becoming the strongest!"

Zoro clinked his cup against Kaito's, his smile growing. "To the Grand Line."

The two men drank, the promise of adventure and challenges ahead burning brightly between them.

As the last of the crew began to settle down, the ship sailed smoothly through the night, the looming silhouette of Reverse Mountain just visible on the horizon. The air was cool and crisp, the stars above shining brightly as the Red Dawn Pirates drifted towards their next great adventure.

One by one, the crew members found places to rest, their energy finally spent. Some curled up in hammocks or beneath makeshift blankets on the deck, while others wandered below to their quarters. The ship was quieter now, the only sounds the gentle creak of the wood and the soft lapping of the waves against the hull.

Kaito stood at the helm, his eyes fixed on the distant peak of Reverse Mountain. His heart raced with anticipation, a mix of excitement and nervous energy coursing through him. This was it. The beginning of something truly extraordinary.

He glanced back at his crew, his family, and felt a surge of fierce pride. They had made it this far, and they would go further still. Whatever lay ahead, they would face it together.

Taking a deep breath, he turned back to the sea, his hands steady on the wheel as he steered the ship towards the Grand Line.

The night stretched on, the ship cutting through the water with unwavering purpose, and the crew of the Red Dawn Pirates dreamed of the adventures that awaited them just beyond the horizon.

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The next day,

The Red Dawn Pirates' ship surged up the massive current of Reverse Mountain, its dark and red sails flaring out as they crested the towering waves. The crew's cheers and whoops of excitement echoed in the thin, cold air, mingling with the roar of rushing water that propelled them upward. The ship tilted and swayed, the deck steeply angled as they rode the raging flow.

"Hold on tight, everyone!" Kaito's voice boomed over the noise, his eyes alight with excitement as he gripped the railings. "This is what we signed up for!"

Zoro stood near the bow, his stance wide and balanced despite the ship's wild pitch. He glanced back at Kaito, a grin stretching across his face. "If this is what it's like getting into the Grand Line, I can't wait to see what's on the other side!" He called out, his heart beating fast.

Yoruichi, perched on the mainmast, looked back over her shoulder, her golden eyes gleaming. "Better hope you've got a strong stomach, swordfish!" She called, her voice cutting through the wind.

Whatever Zoro cursed back over that infernal nickname he'd been saddled with, was lost in the wind, but Kaito laughed anyway, thrilled at everything.

The ship continued its ascent, the crew working together seamlessly to keep it steady. Nami stood at the helm, her hands white-knuckled on the wheel as she guided them through the treacherous climb. Apple stood beside her, one hand on the ropes and the other on the rail, her eyes fixed on the swirling waters below.

"Almost at the peak!" Nami shouted, her voice strained but steady. "Get ready for the descent!"

The crew braced themselves, the air buzzing with anticipation as the ship reached the summit of Reverse Mountain. For a brief moment, they seemed to hang suspended, the world stretched out around them in a dizzying panorama of sky, water, and distant horizons.

Then, with a rush, they tipped over the edge and began their rapid descent, Kaito whooping in excitement.

The ship plummeted down the slope, the current carrying them at breakneck speed. The crew held on as the wind whipped through their hair and the spray stung their faces. Laughter and shouts of exhilaration mixed with the roar of the water as they raced toward the base of the mountain.

But as they neared the bottom, a change in the air hit them - a sudden drop in temperature, the first flakes of snow whirling past them. The sky ahead darkened, and the seas beyond churned angrily under a blanket of low, gray clouds. The sharp sting of sleet replaced the gentle mist, and the wind howled with a chilling ferocity.

Kaito squinted against the sudden onslaught of cold, his grin widening despite the harsh conditions. "Looks like we've got a welcoming committee!" I guess instead of Laboon we get a fucking storm. "The Grand Line says welcome to a real sea, you fuckers!"

Stolen novel; please report.

The crew exchanged uneasy glances as they plunged into the storm, the temperature plummeting with every passing second. The wind grew stronger, tugging at the sails and lashing the deck with icy rain. The sea churned violently beneath them, tossing the ship like a toy as the crew scrambled to secure the rigging.

"Nami! What's fucking happening? It was clear skies thirty bloody seconds ago!" Wire shouted over the gale, his voice barely audible above the wind, without even looking, he grabbed Blackjack by the neck and delivered him to the Dice who tied the brat down before he'd fly off overboard.

Nami's jaw was set, her eyes narrowed in concentration as she fought to keep the ship on course. "It must be a Grand Line storm! This is just the beginning, we can't ever know what to expect if what the Captain has been saying is true - hold on and follow my lead!"

The ship bucked and heaved as a massive wave crashed over the bow, drenching the crew and sending a cascade of freezing water sweeping across the deck. Dice and Tears were thrown against the railing, barely managing to hold on as the wave surged past them.

"Brace the sails!" Nami commanded, her voice a whip-crack in the chaos. "We need to keep control or we'll be smashed against the rocks!"

The crew leapt into action, hauling on the ropes and fighting to secure the sails as the wind threatened to tear them to shreds. The storm intensified, the wind screaming through the rigging and the rain pelting down in icy sheets. Apple, seeing Nami's struggle to keep her footing, grabbed a length of rope and quickly lashed herself to the helm, then did the same for Nami.

"Locked down tight!" Apple yelled, tying the knots down tightly. "We can't afford to lose you overboard!"

Nami nodded grimly, the rope biting into her waist but holding her steady as another wave crashed over them. She squinted through the driving rain, her eyes locked on the needle of the log pose strapped to her wrist. The magnetic compass pointed resolutely northwest, ignoring the chaos around them. She could practically feel the raging storms heading, the movement of the currents. She made her decision.

"We're heading into it!" She shouted, her voice hoarse. "No stopping now - we push through, or we're dead!"

If they turned now, the storm would end up dragging them along, their only recourse was to bust right through. "Sails up again!" She cried, as they put the mountain behind them, managing to turn them so the wind from the storm would give them a boost instead of hindering them.

The ship shuddered as a wall of water slammed into the side, tilting dangerously. Zoro, who had been helping to loosen the rigging again, stumbled but caught himself, his grip iron-clad on the lines. "This is insane!" He muttered, his teeth gritted against the cold.

Beside him, Kaito was hanging off the railings, his hair plastered to his head and his clothes drenched, but his laughter carried above the storm's fury. "This is sailing!" He roared, his voice a challenge to the elements themselves.

The crew, straining against the wind and water, shot him incredulous looks. Nami shouted something that Kaito chose to ignore because it said mean things about his mother and farm animals.

"Shut up, Captain!" Came the collective roar, their voices united despite the chaos - they didn't appreciate their first taste of the Grand Line to the same extent.

Kaito threw his head back, laughing even harder, his spirit unbroken by the ferocity of the storm, this, this was adventure! "Come on, you cowards! Is this all you've got? We're the Red Dawn Pirates! We don't back down from a little weather!"

The ship lurched again, the wind howling with renewed vigor as it drove them deeper into the heart of the storm. Nami's hands were steady on the wheel, her eyes never leaving the log pose as it guided them through the madness by helping her keep the heading straight.

"Keep her steady!" Wire shouted, his voice barely audible over the din. He and Dice were wrestling with the main sail, trying to keep it from ripping apart as the wind battered them.

Apple, still tied to the helm, leaned closer to Nami, her voice urgent. "What about the whale the Captain warned about? Shouldn't we have seen it by now?" She was worried they'd suddenly find themselves running into it with viability so low.

Nami shook her head, her face set in a grim mask. "No sign of it - and with this storm, I doubt it would have stuck around above the surface. Just focus on getting through this alive!"

The sleet turned to snow, the flakes swirling around them in a blinding blizzard. Ice formed on the rigging, the ropes stiffening and the deck becoming treacherously slick. The crew moved cautiously, their movements hindered by the freezing cold and the constant battering of the storm.

And then, as if the storm itself were testing them, the dark shapes of icebergs loomed out of the swirling snow, their jagged peaks rising menacingly from the churning sea. Nami's eyes widened, her knuckles turning white on the wheel.

"Everyone, watch out!" She screamed. "Icebergs ahead! Hard port!"

The crew scrambled to adjust the sails, the rudder groaning as they tried to avoid the sudden iceberg, trying to maneuver the ship through the treacherous waters. Pie and Archer, their faces rife with concentration, worked together to keep the ropes secure as the ship weaved between the towering ice formations, the two some of the strongest on the crew.

"This is insane!" Blackjack shouted, his voice high with adrenaline. "Are we seriously going to make it through this?"

Wire, bracing himself against the railing, glanced at him with a grim smile. "No choice but to try." And then he glared at him, "Who the fuck let you up top again you little shit!"

Before he could rage some more, Duel casually gathered the boy up, smothering him in her bust as she bustled him downstairs. Notably Blackjack did not fight too much to go this time.

Another massive wave crashed over the ship, nearly knocking them into an iceberg as the water swept across the deck. Kaito, still hanging onto the railings, felt the cold bite into his bones, but he refused to let go. He looked around at his crew, his heart swelling with pride as they fought against the storm, their spirits unbroken despite the odds.

"That's it, keep going!" He shouted, his voice raw. "Show this storm what we're made of!" To assist, he utilized the six powers to not only cut chunks of ice away from them, but to give the ship a bit of a boost in moving sideways when he'd jump off board and send a bunch of blunt tempest kicks knocking the ship away from icebergs.

The ship twisted and turned, narrowly avoiding one iceberg only to face another looming ahead. Nami's eyes were locked on the log pose, her mind racing as she calculated their best path through the maze of ice and water.

"We're almost through!" She yelled, her voice hoarse from shouting over the storm. "Just a little further - hold on!"

It was really bullshit she thought, the weather literally ambushing them from nowhere as soon as they entered.

The crew gritted their teeth, their hands frozen on the ropes as they pushed the ship onward. The storm seemed to reach a fever pitch, the wind howling like a living thing and the waves crashing around them in a frenzy. But then, slowly, the sky began to lighten, the snow thinning and the wind dying down.

The ship broke free of the icebergs, the sea around them calming as they sailed out of the storm's grasp. The crew stood in stunned silence, their breaths coming in ragged gasps as they looked around at the clear, calm waters that stretched out before them.

"This is not how fucking weather works!" Wire complained.

Nami, still tied to the helm, sagged in relief, her hands shaking as she loosened her grip on the wheel. "We made it," She whispered, her voice thick with exhaustion and disbelief. "We actually made it."

Kaito, his hair and clothes still dripping with melted snow, pushed himself up from where he'd been hanging on the railings. He turned to face the crew, a triumphant grin splitting his face. "See? I told you we could do it!"

The crew let out a ragged cheer, their voices tired but victorious. They had faced the storm and survived, their ship intact and their spirits unbroken. As the Red Dawn Pirates sailed on into the calm, open waters of the Grand Line, their laughter and cheers echoed across the waves, a promise to the world that they were here to stay.

Kaito felt nothing but excitement, this was fun, this was dangerous, but most of all, it would be a challenge!

----------------------------------------

Two days later, Grand Line.

The Red Dawn Pirates' ship glided smoothly through the calm waters of the Grand Line, the air thick with a sense of anticipation as Kaito gathered the crew on the main deck for their first training session. The sky above was clear, the breeze gentle, but there was a crackling energy in the air as the crew assembled, eager and curious.

Zoro stood at the front of the group, his swords strapped to his waist, his stance wide and eager. His eyes were bright with excitement as he looked at Kaito, who had his arms crossed over his chest, a mischievous grin tugging at his lips.

"Alright, everyone, today we're going to be training Haki," Kaito announced, his voice carrying across the deck. A murmur of interest rippled through the crew, several members exchanging excited glances. "And we're going to begin with Observation Haki."

He'd already explained all of this to most of the crew, but Zoro was new, and it didn't hurt to give everyone else a refresher either. Nami and Carina hadn't really had much of these training sessions either, with him focusing on their strength and stamina to get them ready for the six powers.

Zoro frowned slightly, his brow furrowing. "Observation Haki?" He echoed, clearly not knowing what it is. "What's that?"

Kaito chuckled, shaking his head. "Observation Haki is a way to heighten your senses. It allows you to sense the presence, emotions, and even the intentions of others around you. At its highest levels, it can even let you predict an opponent's moves before they make them or notice people across an entire island."

Zoro's eyes widened with interest, and he leaned forward slightly, his hands resting on the hilts of his swords. "Sounds useful," He muttered, his tone thoughtful. "So how do we train it?"

Kaito's grin widened. "By straining your senses constantly," He said, his voice taking on a slightly devious edge. "You learn to predict and react to attacks, even without seeing them. And the best way to do that…" He paused, glancing around at the gathered crew, many of whom were watching him with wary curiosity. "...Is by being attacked."

There was a collective blink from some of the crew, confusion spreading across the newcomers' faces.

"Wait, what?" Nami exclaimed, her voice rising. "We're supposed to learn this by getting attacked?"

Zoro was unmoved, the swordsman eager to get started already, this skill something that would be very useful for his skill set. "Sounds good to me." He said flippantly, Carina and Nami both glaring at him.

"Exactly!" Kaito said cheerfully. "But don't worry, you won't be using weapons against each other. Duel, Blackjack, and a few others have volunteered to use these!" He held up a wooden bat, the smooth, polished surface gleaming in the sunlight.

Duel, Blackjack, and several other crew members stepped forward, each of them holding similar batons. Duel's eyes gleamed with sadism, a slightly wicked smile on her lips, while Blackjack twirled his baton in his hand, a mischievous grin on his young face.

Nami and Carina exchanged horrified looks, their eyes widening as the realization of what was about to happen sunk in.

"You can't be serious!" Carina protested, her voice high with disbelief. "We're just supposed to stand here and let you whack us?"

"Pretty much!" Kaito replied with a grin. "You'll be blindfolded, of course, to help you focus on your other senses. The goal is to try and sense where the attacks are coming from before they hit you." His grin widened, "This will likely take months."

He'd never cracked it working on his own, but he'd started getting a feel now after sailing and fighting, so he'd be joining in on training soon enough as well, to hopefully crack through the ceiling completely.

"This is insane," Nami muttered, but there was a resigned note in her voice as she took the blindfold offered to her. She'd seen how his training had worked. How crew members were beginning to utilize the six powers. She wanted to be strong too.

"Just try not to hit my face," Carina added, tying her blindfold over her eyes. "I still have to look good after this."

"Blackjack I swear to Davy Jones locker, you hit my boobs I'm going to shove that bat up your urethra!"

Blackjack pulled on the sleeve of one of the other crew members, which happened to be Venom, "What's an Urethra?" Before looking at Nami warily, after it was explained.

Zoro, meanwhile, was already blindfolding himself, his excitement palpable as he stood ready. "So, we're just supposed to sense when they're going to hit us? No blocking or fighting back?"

"Exactly," Kaito confirmed. "You're going to focus entirely on trying to predict their movements. This will help you develop your Observation Haki. Just try to anticipate where the strikes are coming from and move out of the way. And for those of you who are more in tune with defensive techniques, like Iron Body or Paper Arts, you can practice that as well. Multitasking is fun, right?"

That way they could strain their senses on trying to anticipate a hit, while also practicing control over their body, meant it was likely they'd have only small gains, but at the same time, they'd be gaining in two areas.

He glanced at the gathered crew, his eyes twinkling with amusement. "Ready?"

A chorus of uncertain murmurs answered him, but no one backed down. Nami and Carina, their expressions hidden beneath their blindfolds, shifted nervously, while several others - Dice, Tears, Cloud - stood with tense postures, bracing themselves for what was to come. They'd all done this before.

"Alright then," Kaito said, stepping back and gesturing to Duel and the others. "Go easy on them… At first."

With that, Duel stepped forward, her smile widening as she raised her baton. She moved silently, almost casually, before suddenly swinging it at Zoro's side. The baton struck him with a solid thwack, and he let out a grunt of surprise, his stance faltering.

"Gah! Damn it, where did that come from?" Zoro growled, his teeth gritted as he tried to focus. His brows furrowed as he strained his senses, trying to if nothing else pick up on the wind of the blow, not easy on a windy day on a ship.

"Try to sense it," Kaito called out encouragingly. "Listen to the sound, feel the air around you. Observation Haki is all about extending your awareness beyond just your sight, but first you must hone your current senses to their utmost limits."

Blackjack darted forward, his baton aimed at Nami's shoulder, showing his bravery by still picking Nami as his target, that or his idiocy. She let out a yelp as it connected, staggering slightly. "Ow! This is ridiculous!" She shouted, frustration clear in her voice.

Apple, watching from the sidelines, blushed slightly as she watched Nami's flustered attempts to dodge, especially as Blackjack spanked her ass with the baton, getting an elbow to the face for the effort. "This works for me," She muttered under her breath, a faint smile tugging at her lips.

"I heard that!" Nami shouted, blushing beet red. Hearing that but not the woosh of the bat.

"Selective sensing." Kaito chuckled, but then Nami might be one of the first ones to get this anyway, her senses were already spectacular, both for danger, and for the weather. So she already had supernatural senses.

The crew began to move, the blindfolded members shifting and swaying as they tried to anticipate the incoming strikes. Some, like Zoro and Dice, remained relatively steady, their bodies tensing and shifting as they tried to sense the attacks. Others, like Nami and Carina, were less successful, their yelps and exclamations of pain filling the air as they were repeatedly struck.

"Come on, you can do better than this!" Kaito called out, his tone light but firm. "Focus! Use all your senses - smell, sound, even the changes in the air around you!" It wouldn't bring out observation Haki, he thought, not yet, but once they'd honed their senses… That's when observation would be the next step.

Duel swung her baton again, this time aiming for Zoro's midsection. He flinched, his body twisting to the side, and the baton just grazed him instead of landing a full hit. He let out a triumphant huff, a grin spreading across his face beneath the blindfold.

"I felt that one coming!" He shouted, his voice filled with eagerness, "Again!"

Kaito nodded approvingly, though none of them could see it. "Good, Zoro! That's what you want. Keep focusing. Everyone else, try to tune in the same way. At least his basic senses were good, not surprisingly."

The training continued, the crew moving in a strange dance as they tried to evade the strikes. Blackjack, his grin widening, moved in on Dice, his baton flashing out to strike at his arm. Dice flinched, his body jerking awkwardly as he tried to avoid the blow.

"Too slow!" Blackjack taunted, his voice gleeful.

"This isn't fair!" Nami protested as she narrowly avoided another strike, only to get whacked on the back of the head by Duel's baton. "How are we supposed to learn anything when you keep hitting us so easily?"

"You're learning by experience!" Kaito replied, his voice brimming with amusement. "Every time you get hit, you're training your body and mind to react faster. Keep at it!"

Carina, her lips pressed into a thin line, ducked awkwardly, managing to avoid a hit from Duel, only to stumble into the path of another crew member's baton seconds later. She let out a frustrated huff, muttering curses under her breath, but notably kept at it without complaint.

Kaito clapped his hands together, the sound sharp and commanding. "Remember this is also good training for those of you interested in Iron Body or Paper Arts! If you're more defense focused, try to use your Iron Body to absorb the hits I've already taught you how. If you're more about evasion, like Yoruichi, focus on letting your body flow with the attacks, avoiding them entirely. This is the perfect opportunity to multitask your training!"

There were scattered groans and mutters of agreement as the crew tried to follow his instructions, their movements becoming more deliberate, more focused.

Zoro, his muscles taut and his senses on high alert, managed to avoid another swing from Duel, his body shifting smoothly to the side. He grinned, the thrill of the training coursing through him.

"Decent," Duel said, her voice carrying a note of approval as she readied herself for another strike. "Strike harder." She promised, with a smirk.

Zoro snorted, his grin widening, "Just you wait - I'll get this down faster than anyone."

Kaito, watching from the sidelines, chuckled, his eyes twinkling as he called out. "I'm sure you will, Zoro. If you avoid another ten strikes I'll spar with you one-on-one later."

Zoro let out a low laugh, the promise of a challenge igniting his competitive spirit. "Looking forward to it, Captain."

The training continued, the deck filled with the sounds of laughter, yelps, and the occasional curse as the crew pushed themselves to adapt. Slowly but surely, they began to improve, their movements becoming more fluid, their senses more attuned to the world around them.

Kaito watched them with a sense of pride and satisfaction, his heart swelling as he saw his crew rising to the challenge. They were strong, resilient, and determined—and he knew that with time, they would become even stronger.

Nearby, Nami was still struggling, her face a mask of frustration beneath the blindfold. She had taken several hits already, each one making her stumble and curse. Her focus wavered as she muttered under her breath, trying to make sense of what she was supposed to be feeling.

"Come on, Nami, you can do this!" Kaito called out, his voice filled with encouragement. "Don't think too much - just let your body respond."

Nami huffed, her jaw set with determination. She took a deep breath, trying to calm her racing heart. She had faced storms and navigated through treacherous waters, but this - standing blindfolded while people hit her - was a different kind of challenge entirely, one she should do well at, dammit. Her senses were sharp!

"Fine, fine, I'll try," She muttered, her hands clenched at her sides as she tried to focus. A sudden rush of air warned her just in time, and she managed to duck under the swing of Blackjack's baton, her breath catching in surprise.

"Yes!" She shouted, triumph lighting up her face. "I did it!" Sure, it wasn't observation, but she dodged a hit.

Apple, watching from a safe distance, let out a low, appreciative murmur, her eyes never leaving Nami. "That's right, you did," she whispered, a faint smile curving her lips. Kaito glanced over at her, wondering how on earth the two of them managed to get so twisted up in each other, especially considering how they met.

Oh well, not his business. As long as they didn't stab each other. Too much.

Although they better not shack up too soon, he'd bet a lot of money on the two of them getting into bed together properly by next month. So they really needed to stop acting so adorable with each other. Just for a little while. Until he could win his bet.

Finally, after what felt like hours, Kaito clapped his hands again, signaling the end of the session. "Alright, that's enough for now. You all did great. Take a break, get some water, and rest up. We'll keep at this until everyone's comfortable with it."

"You didn't train yet, Captain." Nami said sweetly, taking off her blindfold, stealing Blackjack's baton before the boy could even blink.

Slowly, the entirety of the crew who'd been previously blindfolded turned his way, their eyes almost going demonic as a miasma of intent covered the ship.

"H-hey now, I don't even have a blindfold." He protested, as they all grabbed batons.

"Then close your eyes." Carina said, twirling a baton, smirking nastily.

"I'll take the balls." Nami growled.

Kaito yelped, "Hey now, those belong to Duel!"

Duel, who'd given her bat to another crew member, growled loudly, putting her hand out, "Give!" She requested, demanding her bat back.

Much training was had, and the crew left for dinner in a much greater mood and a sense of camaraderie.

Some time later,

A somewhat bruised Kaito leaned against the railing next to Yoruichi, who'd kept herself apart during the chaos, and, he had noticed, seemed more melancholy than normal.

"You alright, Yoruichi?" He asked, not pushing, just offering to lend an ear.

He knew Archer had been hovering around her a lot more ever since they entered the Grand Line. Although he didn't have details, he knew she'd been saved by him once upon a time.

It didn't take a genius to guess something bad happened in this sea, and with her stationed in East Blue, this was her first return to it.

"I don't want to talk about it." She said, brusquely.

"Alright." He said, just leaning against the railing, listening to the ocean.

"The Grand Line…" Yoruichi muttered to herself after a while, nails scratching the wood. "Will I find him here?"

Kaito kept his silence, she hadn't asked him anything, and he was just there to keep her company.

"There's a man, a man I need to kill, Captain, just fair warning…" She said so quietly he had to strain to hear her. "The laughing man in pink…" She closed her eyes, "If I run into him, I can't promise I'll stay on the crew. I have to make him pay."

Kaito didn't even need to think about it. "Okay." He said.

"That's it?" She said, a sad smile on her face as she shook her head.

"I've got your back." He said, equally simply.

Even if that sounds like…

----------------------------------------

A week and a half later,

Kaito had almost been tempted to use the Eternal pose he got from Buggy to head for one of the backways up to the sky islands to start their adventure.

But now that he saw the first island they'd arrived at, he was glad he hadn't, because this was much more interesting than the boring Whiskey Peak or Drum island that the Straw Hats had visited - and he'd always have the sky islands in his back pocket for when he wanted up there anyway. The Grand Line really could continuously surprise you, and it was awesome.

The island loomed ahead, its jagged cliffs and windswept dunes etched sharply against the sky. As the Red Dawn sailed closer, the crew all gathered at the railings, their eyes locked on the strange sight before them. A desert island stretched out, a small town and a harbor nestled at the front, appearing almost serene. But behind it, the landscape was dominated by a massive sandstorm, its swirling mass obscuring everything beyond.

The island, far from being a single landmass, was massively broken up behind the town, only glimpses able to be caught due to the sandstorm.

The storm was a monstrous wall of sand and wind, churning violently, as if it was trying to swallow the very island itself. Occasionally, huge chunks of the island seemed to flash through the storm, appearing and disappearing within the chaotic swirl. It looked like parts of the island had been ripped apart, leaving the village and harbor isolated and untouched on the edge of the maelstrom.

What excited Kaito the most was the landships he'd caught flashes of moving through the sandstorm, do they have Jawas? He almost wanted to squee in excitement.

Kaito, Yoruichi, and the other officers stood on the deck together, gazing at the scene, the other watching with a mixture of curiosity and wariness as opposed to Kaitos excitement. The crew behind them murmured among themselves, glancing nervously between the island and their leaders.

To be fair… They hadn't exactly had the most luck, really, so far. Although Kaito would argue that the fact they all came away alive and with all limbs no matter their bad luck islands, meant they had some pretty good luck.

What East Blue pirate survives running into Garp, of all people?

"Well, that's something you don't see every day," Archer remarked dryly, crossing his arms over his chest. "Looks like a giant blender out there." He chuckled slowly, the sound deep and reverberating, "The Grand Line never disappoints."

"Yeah… not really sharing your point of view there, Archer, it's not exactly a vacation spot, we desperately need some actual chill time." Yoruichi said, scrunching up her nose cutely, her eyes narrowing as she studied the storm. "That sandstorm doesn't look natural, big surprise. No way it's just a regular weather pattern, even for the Grand Line."

Wire nodded thoughtfully. "The island's practically broken. I've never fucking seen anything like it."

Nami, her gaze fixed on the village, chimed in. "But look at the town. It's like there's some kind of invisible barrier around it. The storm doesn't seem to touch it at all."

"That's some serious Grand Line fuckery," Kaito said with a grin, his eyes glinting with excitement. "Which means we have to check it out."

"Seriously?" Nami turned to him, her expression incredulous. "You want to go into that?"

Kaito shrugged. "We need to resupply, and we could use some R and R. Plus, it's not like we haven't handled worse."

Yoruichi raised an eyebrow. "And what if that storm decides to come for the town while we're there? You want to deal with getting buried alive in sand?"

Kaito's grin widened. "We'll deal with it when it comes. Besides, the storm hasn't moved from that spot the entire time we've been watching. I say we take the chance."

Wire sighed, shaking his head. "You just want to see what's in the fucking storm." He grumbled.

"I never said I didn't." Kaito chuckled. "But I'm serious. The town looks safe enough, and we could use a break without getting into a fight for once. We'll be careful, scout the place first, then decide if the rest of the crew can disembark."

Yoruichi considered it for a moment, then nodded. "Alright, but we'll stick to the plan. We go in first, check things out, and if it's safe, we let the others know."

"Sounds good to me," Archer said, glancing back at the crew. "And we could use a resupply. I'm running low on a few things."

Zoro immediately shook his head, a scowl on his face, "I'll guard the ship, I don't like sand."

Kaito immediately had to stop himself from his knee jerk reaction, that you, Anakin? Instead Kaito turned to face the crew, raising his voice. "Alright, listen up! We're heading into that town. The officers will go in first and check things out. No one else disembarks until we give the all-clear. Understood?"

That way if they had to flee quickly, they didn't run into the issue of having to chase their people down again. Honestly, this island had to be better. You can only have so much bad luck.

There was a collective murmur of agreement from the crew, but one voice piped up from the back. "Do we still need to babysit Apple in case of kidnapping?"

The entire crew erupted in laughter, while Apple's face turned beet red. "Don't remind him, you fucker!" She shouted, launching a swift kick at the unfortunate crewman's groin. He doubled over, groaning as the others continued to laugh.

Kaito grinned, pointing at Pie and a few other crewmembers nearby. "Yes, absolutely stay close to Apple if we let her disembark. No wandering off, gotta keep the kidnapbait close at hand at all times."

"Hey!" Apple protested, her cheeks still flushed. "I can take care of myself!"

"Uh-huh," Pie said, rubbing his leg where Apple had kicked him once before. "Keeping you safe anyway."

"Or to save the poor bastards who try to grab her," Blackjack added with a smirk, dodging a second kick from Apple, sticking his tongue out, only to face plant as Duel casually smacked him down.

The crew laughed again, the tension easing as the banter continued. "Fine, fine, just don't get in my way," Apple muttered, folding her arms with a huff.

"Alright, officers, let's get moving," Kaito said, clapping his hands. "Everyone else, keep the ship ready. We'll be back with the news."

The officers disembarked, the rest of the crew waving them off with a mix of cheers and jeers. As they made their way down the gangplank, they were immediately met by a woman striding towards them.

She was striking, with fiery red hair reaching to her neck, a black eyepatch covering the entirety of her right eye yet without any visible way of staying on, and a confident swagger that spoke of authority. A sheriff's badge gleamed on her leather vest, and her hand hovered over the six-shooter at her hip. But it was her leather pants that caught most of their attention - tight and well-fitted, accentuating her every step as she approached.

Kaito wanted to see her walk away.

"Name's Nala," She said, her voice drawling with a heavy accent. "I'm the sheriff 'round these parts. Now, are you folks here to be nice or naughty?" Her eye narrowed, "We don't mind y'all with the black flag as long as you can be neighborly, reckon we'll have a problem if ya cause a ruckus tho'!"

Her hand stayed poised over her gun, her gaze sharp and unyielding as she sized them up. The officers exchanged glances, sensing the tension in the air, this woman didn't feel like she was weak. But she wouldn't be enough for all of them - yet she had the balls to approach like this.

It spoke well for the town if this was it's protector, Kaito thought, this might be that one stop where we can finally spend some time on shore leave…

Yoruichi stepped forward, her tone calm and friendly. "We're just here for resupply and some time off the ship to revel. We're not looking to start any trouble."

Kaito, grinning, added, "But if it finds us, we'll finish it." He pumped his fist in the air. His grin stayed even as both Yoruichi and Nami elbowed him in the gut from either side, making him let out a soft 'oof'.

Nala's gaze didn't waver, but her lips twitched slightly. "Well, I'll be watchin' y'all closely. And if you cause any problems, I'll take care of it myself. Welcome to Remnant Island." With a final, assessing look, she turned on her heel and stomped off.

Kaito watched her go, letting out a low whistle. "Now there's a woman you want to see walk away."

Before the others could react, there was a sharp crack, and Kaito instinctively went into Iron Body, a bullet bouncing off his head. Nala, who had already turned back, spun her gun on her finger before holstering it again, a smug look on her face as she continued walking away.

Notably she did not freak out over him being able to take a bullet like that, they were in the Grand Line alright.

"Good hearing," Yoruichi muttered, smacking Kaito over the head. "Don't start trouble with the locals." She growled, her face going shark-like for a moment.

Archer chuckled. "At least wait until we resupply," He added with a smirk.

Wire groaned, frowning at them all, "I'll kill you all if you mess up shore leave, I'm not fucking made to be on a ship all the time!"

Duel smacked him to the back of the head, "Pussy." She taunted easily.

Wire grumbled, "Stop smacking people, woman!"

Kaito just laughed, waving them off. "Alright, alright, point taken. Go check out the town. Let's see what this place has to offer."

They split into groups, each heading in a different direction. Kaito and Archer made their way towards the market area, Yoruichi and Nami headed for the official-looking part of town, and Wire and Duel wandered off towards a run down tavern near the harbor.

The town was a curious mix of rustic charm and rough edges. The buildings were sturdy, made from weathered wood and stone, their façades worn but well-kept. People moved about, going about their business, their clothes simple but practical, suited for the harsh desert environment. The market was bustling with activity, vendors shouting over the noise, hawking their wares - everything from fresh produce to exotic spices and strange Grand Line artifacts.

As Wire and Duel entered the tavern, they were met with the low hum of conversation and the smell of strong liquor. The place was dimly lit, the wooden floor scuffed and stained from years of use. A few patrons sat at the bar, nursing their drinks, while others were gathered around tables, playing cards or chatting quietly.

To their shock, the woman they had just seen - the sheriff - was standing behind the bar, a cigarette dangling from her lips as she lazily cleaned glasses. She was also wearing a more casual outfit, the first few buttons of her shirt unbuttoned, showing plenty of cleavage.

"Welcome to the Spotted Dick, best drinking hole in Remnant," She drawled, not even looking up as she placed a clean glass on the shelf. "What can I get ya?"

Wire and Duel exchanged a bewildered look. "Aren't you - " Wire began, but Nala cut him off, finally glancing up with a raised eyebrow.

"Ain't ya cute, you doing something later, sugah?" She asked Wire, a coy smile tugging at her lips. "It's a small town, it ain't got men like you around..."

Duel snorted, recovering quickly. "Strong, drink." She said shortly, ignoring the spluttering Wire, who'd been caught completely off guard.

Nala nodded, reaching for a bottle of amber liquid. "Comin' right up."

Meanwhile, Yoruichi and Nami made their way through the more official part of town. The buildings here were a little more polished, with signs indicating various shops and offices. The air was quieter, the hustle and bustle of the market replaced by a more subdued atmosphere.

As they approached what appeared to be the mayor's office, they noticed a small crowd gathered outside, murmuring amongst themselves. Curious, they joined the group, craning their necks to see what was happening.

The door to the office burst open, and the mayor stepped out, a fierce scowl on her face. It was Nala. The same Nala they'd seen in the harbor just minutes ago, now standing in front of them with an air of authority that made the crowd fall silent, wearing a full on tan suit, straightening her tie with a jerky motion.

"Y'all need to calm the hell down!" She shouted, her accented voice slicing through the murmurs. "I said I'd handle it, darn it, and I meant it. Quit actin' like a bunch of headless chickens and get back to ya lives!"

The crowd stirred, several people looking disgruntled but more confused than anything else. A burly man near the front crossed his arms over his chest, his voice carrying a note of frustration. "But Mayor -"

"Don't you 'But Mayor' me, Paul!" Nala snapped, pointing a gloved finger at him. "I'm takin' care of it. You've got no business stickin' your nose in where it don't belong. Now git! All of ya!" She waved her hand, shooing the crowd like they were a pack of unruly animals.

The townsfolk grumbled, some shooting glares her way, but they began to disperse. Nala stood on the steps, arms crossed, her expression stern and unyielding. She paid no particular attention to Yoruichi and Nami, other than to turn her nose up at them, before glaring at the leaving townsfolk.

Yoruichi and Nami exchanged looks, both women raising an eyebrow in disbelief. They were sure they'd left Nala back at the harbor, and there was no way she would have beaten them here, changed outfits and been waiting for the crowd at the same time. But there she was…

"That's the same woman, right?" Nami muttered under her breath, her eyes narrowing as she studied Nala.

"Pretty sure," Yoruichi replied, her voice equally low. "Either she's the fastest person on this island, or we've got something weird going on, again. Might need to poke around and see what's going on."

"Again? I don't even want to know..." Nami's eyes followed Nala as she stomped back into the mayor's office, slamming the door behind her. "We should tell the others about this. It's definitely something, even if she's just that fast." She sounded doubtful of that being the matter at hand even as she said it.

They turned away, heading back towards the others, minds racing with questions. At least from what they could tell, the rest of the town seemed somewhat normal, although every person they saw were armed heavily, which was something of note.

But then again it could be because of the higher risk of pirate attack at this stage of the Grand Line.

Meanwhile, Kaito and Archer were wandering through the lively market district. Stalls lined the streets, their awnings flapping in the warm breeze as vendors called out to potential customers. The air was filled with the scents of spices, baked goods, and the occasional whiff of something less pleasant, like fish that had been left out too long.

Kaito strolled along, his eyes wide with interest as he took in the sights and sounds. He loved seeing new places, and this island, with its unique atmosphere and strange storm, was unlike anything he'd encountered before.

Archer was keeping a close eye on the goods being sold, mentally cataloging anything they might need for the ship. "If we're going to be here for a while, we should stock up on some of these spices," He commented, nodding towards a stall where a woman was selling small jars filled with vibrant powders. "Grand Line spices are hard to come by depending on where you are, and they'd add some nice flavor to the food."

Kaito nodded absently, his attention suddenly drawn to a small bakery nestled between two larger buildings. The warm, sweet smell of fresh bread and pastries wafted out, making his stomach growl.

Archer laughed as Kaito's steps faltered. "What's the matter? Can't resist a good pastry?" He hefted a bag he was carrying, already half empty, "You've already eaten half of what I picked up for a treat for tonight."

"Shut up." Kaito grinned, already making his way over to the shop. "You know I'm a sucker for fresh bread."

The bakery was charming, with a painted sign over the door that just read The Bakery. The smell intensified as they stepped inside, the air thick with the scents of sugar, cinnamon, and freshly baked bread. Behind the counter, a woman was busy arranging a tray of pastries. She was tall and sturdy, her hair done up in a messy bun, an apron tied around her waist. Flour dusted her cheek, and her hands moved deftly as she placed each pastry with care.

"Welcome!" She called out, her voice warm and friendly, the same drawl they'd heard before. "Y'all here for somethin' sweet?"

Kaito and Archer froze, their eyes widening. The woman behind the counter was Nala. Except now she looked more relaxed, a genuine smile on her face as she wiped her hands on her apron. The Sheriff hadn't even walked off in this direction? How?

"What in the…?" Kaito muttered, cocking his head as if trying to clear it. He glanced at Archer, who looked equally bewildered. "Am I seeing things?" Is this a nurse Joy situation?

Archer chuckled, shaking his head. "No, but it's the Grand Line. Odd is normal here."

"Y'all alright?" Nala asked, raising an eyebrow. "Lookin' a little lost there."

Kaito recovered quickly, flashing her a grin. "Yeah, just surprised to see such a nice bakery in a place like this, run by such a beautiful woman." He said suavely, leaning into the counter.

Nala laughed, the sound rich and genuine. "Well, ah like to reckon we're a little oasis in the middle of all this craziness. What can ah get for ya?" She smirked at Kaito, "And ahm taken already, so stow the swagger."

"Surprise us," Archer said, his tone light. "Whatever you think is best."

She nodded, grabbing a couple of pastries and placing them in a small basket. Adding two wrapped pastries on top "Here ya go, on the house for y'all, welcome tah Remnant."

Kaito's mouth watered as he took a pastry, the flaky crust practically melting in his hand. He took a bite, and his eyes widened in delight. "Damn, this is good!" He moaned, "Who's taken you, I'll duel them for your hand!" He teased.

Nala beamed, clearly pleased. "Glad ya like it! We don't get many visitors, so ah try to make sure tourists leave with a good taste in their mouth." She smirked at Kaito again, "And ahm married to mah work, boyo."

When they finally left the bakery, their hands full of pastries, Kaito shook his head, still puzzled. "Something's definitely off here, I don't think that was the Nala we met before."

"Agreed," Archer said, munching on a croissant. "We should regroup and figure this out. Maybe the others have seen something weird too."

Just then a child ran by, with an eyepatch and red hair, a weathered old woman running slowly behind her, "Nala! You little thief!"

The two of them exchanged looks.

Fuck it, we're rolling on the Grand Line now, Kaito thought, stuffing another pastry in his mouth.

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