For as long as they could remember, the Virus had always been a creature of untold violence.

They would proudly admit that they didn't think too much but why did they need to?

After all, they didn't need to be smart. That wasn't their job.

Their job was to destroy and one didn't need to think when it came to destruction.

But all that changed with the addition of one person.

One single person.

Rosan. Portgas D. Fucking Rosan.

From the moment he had eaten the Mod Mod no mi, Pestilence's (this had not always been their name) life had been thrown to hell.

You were telling them, that one little boy managed to completely turn Modification into… into this?

They had transformed into some bombshell of a woman who could suddenly feel like a human?! Some woman who suddenly realized how dangerous the virus was, so she resorted to sealing their partner?!

It had happened so fast that they nearly couldn't react.

What was this bullshit?! What was going on?!

Had they really just… gotten replaced in the blink of an eye? By some fucking brat? For what reason? What did the snot nosed brat have that the Virus didn't?

Pestilence hadn't known at the time. It had just taken a few words and Mod had already succumbed to some child's charms?

They had succumbed to the point that they were now suddenly able to have problem with what the Virus did? But why?

Did Mod truly think she (She?! SHE?!) could seal them away like this? Just who did the Devil Fruit think they were?

The virus had let Mod think they had been subdued and the moment an opportunity arose, they had slunk away...

That was when they saw the sight of Rosan and Mod hugging each other, properly meeting for the first time.

That was when they saw that stupid little brat hugging their partner with all the love in the world.

It was at that moment, that The Virus began to especially hate Rosan and when you truly hated someone, you would do anything to express that hatred…

Including, playing… smart.

The virus knew they weren't strong enough to exact revenge. They might have been able to deal with the little child but them against Mod?

Impossible. They would never be stronger than Mod. Judging by how Mod was looking down at that little boy, with emotions that she never had anymore... The Virus would cease to exist if she made an attempt on his life.

They needed a different approach... and they needed to avoid the Devil Fruit at all costs.

So that's what they did. They donned the appearance of Rouge, copying all her mannerisms and learning from her. It wasn't much due to her abrupt death but it was enough.

Then they hid and plotted, avoiding Mod and Rosan like the plague.

The virus hated doing this. Hated acting like a background character. Hated scheming and plotting and wondering if they were ever gonna get an opportunity to do anything.

They hated this...

But they hated Rosan more. So they would endure because when they got their payoff... it would all be worth it.

So the virus played it smart. They learned about Rosan. They learned his likes, dislikes, fears…

And they used it all against him. They poisoned his mind with organic thoughts that didn't sound amiss. They gave him doubts. They filled him with anger.

All to weaken him. To weaken his resolve.

To break him.

But Rosan was ridiculously resilient. Too resilient for his own good. Nothing kept him down for long so long as he had someone with him.

So long as the boy was never lonely, he'd persevere through it all.

Rosan was smart enough to heed the words of the people who cared for him. They were his beacons. That raw untapped hatred of his, was dwelling underneath the invincible positive emotions he felt for his loved ones.

No matter how they poisoned him, it all failed.

Mod didn't want him to turn to a darker road, so Rosan listened to Mod. He buried that hatred deep, all while showering his new mother with love and care.

Nico Robin was a shining beacon for him that he desperately sought out, so Rosan shone brighter as a result. Even when he felt anger and hate... it was due to the injustices being done to the ones he loved.

The virus merely stored that information away and continued biding their time. As long as someone believed in Rosan, he would persist. As long as Rosan believed in something, he would fight.

What a conundrum… a boy who simply needed one person to maintain his fragile mental state. Combined with his incredible charisma, it almost felt as if his mind was being fortified by an invincible fortress.

After all, Mod was a permanent presence and she was all he needed.

The virus thought it would have been easy after seeing his mother die so abruptly. They even shifted the blame towards Ace to make it all the more easy.

But that Mod truly did care about him. Due to her presence, Rosan was able to fight through even hell.

They were perfect for each other and that pissed the virus off even more.

What to do…

The virus continued to interfere where possible, hiding the fact that they had never been captured in the first place and just slowly but surely turned Rosan crueler and crueler.

It almost peaked when Nico Robin had been captured. Their influence had shown through the most in that moment and The Virus feared that they would get found out...

But no, surprisingly Rosan actually saved them by instantly reining in his temper.

Nico Robin invoked even more change out of Rosan. The redhead was growing to love her to unprecedented levels.

With her addition, the virus felt that trying to crack him had become truly hopeless.

All their thoughts of giving up had changed one day, when The Virus felt the chilling weight of Seastone crash into them.

It had happened soon after Rosan had gotten captured by those people who had ambushed him.

The Virus had been watching the entire thing with amused eyes, not thinking for a second that Rosan was going to actually lose... up until he was knocked unconscious.

That's when confusion settled in. It was rare for the virus to be blinded to what was happening to the outside world so the abrupt weight of Seastone was utterly paralyzing.

Those little fucking scumbags were utilizing seastone?

The sheer and utter audacity to do such a thing!

Unfortunately for them, The Virus was only partially affected by the neutralizing cuffs. So they would be torn to immediate shreds. They would regret the moment they even dared to restrain them.

For a moment, The Viruses hate of being restrained by worthless trash, overpowered their hatred of Rosan.

But that was only for a moment.

As soon as the virus saw just what was happening to Rosan... as soon as they saw the pain the boy was being put through, they felt a devilish plan forming.

It was best to kill two birds with one stone and Rosan's weakness…

Was being alone.

The Virus cackled all by their lonesome.

No Mod. No Robin. No one.

No one but them.

It was glorious. The Virus was practically gift wrapped this opportunity after a moment of true hopelessness.

At first, The Virus sat back and observed as this Doc tortured Rosan. At first they did nothing, just watching as the redhead screeched and cried in pain and fear.

But despite that, he held strong. No matter how terrified he was of the man, no matter how much the pain made him cry... he understood that the alternate of that was becoming someone he didn't want to be.

It was actually admirable. The Virus felt their respect growing for the redhead as he persevered through the pain…

But his reasoning for persevering, was utterly disgusting.

Nico Robin? That was why? So to the end, he was a dependent little brat. Unable to do anything on his own.

Foolish. At this rate, he'd truly be trapped here forever. Why could he not just break so The Virus could offer their ever so gracious help?

The Virus refused to be chained down to such a pathetic human. One without any power for themselves.

So that meant there was only one solution to truly get Rosan to stand on his own two feet.

Turn him on Nico Robin of course. That's exactly what The Virus did. Turned him against the girl he loved with all his heart.

It was difficult because Rosan would never truly think Robin had betrayed him... so The Virus just whittled and whittled his defenses down.

And it had finally worked... It had taken a while but The Virus saw the fruits of their labor because it worked.

Too well.

It had worked too fucking well.

Nothing could prepare The Virus for what had transpired next.

Rosan didn't just break. He shattered.

All around The Virus, the mindscape shuddered, darkening as the bright sun overhead, was replaced by the pale moon. The temperature dropped slightly, cold rain pounding against the Viruses skin.

But that wasn't all.

No, The Virus watched with wide eyes as a castle began forming near their hiding spot.

What…? What was this? What on earth was going on with Rosan's body?

What was that blur that had just gotten dragged into this newly formed castle?

Unable to hide their curiosity, The Virus stepped into the castle. They had no idea what this castle represented so they would figure out if this was another way to get at Rosan.

That was the biggest mistake they had made to date.

As the castle continued forming, heedless of who had stepped inside, doors formed behind the copy of Rouge and abruptly shut, locking them inside.

The virus whirled around and rushed to the door, banging against it as it refused to budge.

What was this? What the fuck was going on?!

The Virus fruitlessly banged against the door with wide eyes as they tried to figure out what the hell just happened.

Were they trapped? What was going on? What did Rosan do?!

WHAT DID HE DO TO THEM?!

No matter what The Virus tried, there was no escaping and the virus let out a frustrated roar as they banged their head against the door and gave up.

The virus couldn't tell what was happening in the world anymore. They couldn't see! What was going on?! Why was it that there was a castle here now?! Was this some trap?! Could that little brat of an 8 year old really tell that they were the ones influencing them?!

No, that was impossible! Not once did Rosan ever indicate that he knew of their existence. Mod never told him either! The Virus had pretended to be sealed this entire time so the Devil Fruit should have nothing to warn him about!

So what was this...?

Was this the effect of Rosan breaking…?

Just… how powerful was this boy's soul? If The Virus knew this was going to happen... they would have never gone to such extents to break him.

They had no idea this would be the result! Rosan had never been normal but this was absurd!

This was how much his bonds meant to him? Was this the effect of his love? Just the lies that Nico Robin had betrayed him... caused this to take place?

What was happening on the outside?

They didn't know and that pissed them off something fierce. Unable to even admire the results of their work.

The Virus explored the castle with a furious expression, unable to find any escape. Not only that… it was freezing.

This was horrific.

What did Rosan do?! The virus felt like they had asked that question far too many times. If this was what was happening on the inside...

There had to be a way out of this prison. There had to be a way out of this cage.

What was it even supposed to be caging?!

As they pondered the purpose of this castle, the virus continued making their way through until they found what looked to be a throne room.

Their brows furrowed and they stepped inside the room.

What The Virus saw, stunned them silent.

Sitting there, on the throne… all by his lonesome, was the sleeping Rosan.

"What…?" the virus had said, stepping up to the body with genuine confusion.

Why the hell was Rosan here? Wasn't he supposed to be out there? Wasn't this entire thing caused by him?

The virus warily approached his unconscious body, glancing back and forth to assess if anyone else was around... before realizing it was just the two of them.

They placed a hand against the boy, flinching as a wave of pure emotion crashed into them.

Sadness, fear, anguish... all of it washed over them like a tidal wave.

The virus gasped, tears immediately forming against their will, as they were allowed to suddenly see glimpses of the outside world.

Their urge to rip their hands away from the boy vanished, as they were once again granted vision. It was like being allowed to drink water again after a long time...

So the virus kept their grasp firmly on the sleeping redhead.

Like this, they could see and what they saw was... another Rosan?

Huh?

This Rosan appeared lifeless and it took the virus a moment to realize that was just their expression, eyes half lidded and barely glowing, as one eye glowed a sinister shade of red…

Red like the viruses…

So this was what a broken Rosan looked like? Did he rip himself into two? What good was that...

Was he aware of this?

Likely not… but what did this signify? What did this second Rosan represent?

They thought back to the wave of emotions that had practically crushed them and pondered the hidden fury that they knew Rosan always had...

That same hidden fury was there on the forefront of the redhead, represented by those eyes. Behind his calm and lifeless facade, lie a rage filled boy...

It was lurking at the surface, waiting to burst out...

So was this boy all of Rosan's emotions besides his anger? Did Rosan rid himself of emotions?

...How psychotic. That was not what the virus intended. Ridding yourself of emotion was the last thing they wanted. It was those emotions that they preyed on to weaken them...

As the virus removed their hand from the sleeping Rosan, they suddenly lost all contact to the outside world and frowned.

They peeled the body of Rosan off the throne, pleased to see that just by holding them, they were allowed to see.

There was a bed nearby, so the virus climbed atop of it, continuing to maintain contact with the sleeping body.

How convenient. Was this castle perhaps made in Rosan's image? It was quite detailed and from what they knew, the boy did love his fairy tales so it stood to reason that they would know about castles.

Was it possible to escape this place? The Virus didn't know about that. The walls were impenetrable and everything was made of the same crystalline ice.

At least this boy managed to radiate an incredible warmth. The Virus wasn't typically affected by such things like hot or cold, but this castle seemed to defy many things...

To their slight surprise, the sleeping Rosan burrowed deep into the viruses' body, clutching them tightly as their shaky breath evened out.

The Virus gazed down at the boy with a confused expression.

Then, their expression turned pondering and a wide grin formed on their face.

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

The sleeping Rosan awoke randomly one day.

It occured at the same time the other Rosan unlocked the technique he called Shinigami.

The virus had been watching everything and to be honest... they were quite intimidated by the monster that Rosan had become.

The redhead on the outside had become even more unpredictable, growing his power and ruthlessness as the days went buy.

They saw what Rosan had done to that doctor and his wife. They saw what Rosan had done to every opponent he had faced...

The virus was beginning to fear for their safety if Rosan ever figured out they existed.

And the worst part of it all... was the fact that Mod watched it all. She didn't care much that Rosan had turned into this monster so that meant...

What did that mean for the virus? Would Mod watch as the redhead attempted to tear into them?

Rosan had already proven to be an anomaly. The virus didn't think they could stop him...

So how would this weak and caged version of Rosan help? Could they even help? The Rosan on the outside didn't look like his strength had diminished at all. In fact, he looked stronger than ever.

In comparison, this shaking and crying boy probably stood no chance.

The Virus, who had practically never let him go, watched in interest as the redhead gazed sleepily at them.

There were tears running down his face as he came to and the virus sneered in annoyance.

"Why are you crying?" they had asked with a scowl.

He flinched, those big purple eyes staring at them with confusion and sadness.

"I... I'm really scared," the child whispered. "I don't know what's going on. I don't know where I am…"

"Join the club," the virus sneered. "I don't got the slightest fucking clue of what's going on. I haven't known for months."

The Caged Rosan clutched them just a bit tighter and the virus stared down in annoyance.

"Oh... that's... am I alone?" he asked quietly.

The virus scoffed. "Alone? Do I just not fucking exist? How do you think I feel? My only company is a boy who's been asleep the entire time and the moment he wakes up, he starts crying. Not only that, he clutches onto me like his life depends on it and then asks if he's alone... fucking ridiculous."

The boy said nothing for a long while.

"You're alone too?" he asked eventually, gazing up at them once more with those big purple eyes of his.

The tears were freezing up as they fell down his eyes.

How badly did the virus want to pluck his eyes out. They hated how those eyes gazed up their person. Despised it completely.

"Who cares about how I feel?" the virus asked bitterly.

Mod sure as hell didn't. Threw them away at the first chance. Because of this fucking brat right here.

Partners... yeah right.

Pathetic. Absolutely pathetic —

"I care about how you feel," Rosan said quietly, clutching the virus tight.

The Virus paused at that, gazing down at the boy with a confused expression.

Him? Rosan? He cared?

Oh if Rosan knew what they had planned for them, they wouldn't have ever said that.

If Rosan knew that the virus hated them with every fiber of their being, they wouldn't be so comfortable.

"You care?" they asked in some amusement.

Rosan nodded against their body. "I've been sleeping but… you've been holding onto me the whole time right? I'm alone… but I don't feel as alone with you. I don't know who you are but thank you for staying with me," he whispered.

"It's not like I have a choice," they muttered bitterly, glaring at the boy.

But to their displeasure, he was already asleep, just sinking into their frame with quiet snores.

Ridiculous. Did he think the virus was just another one of their friends?

They looked down at the boy sleeping on their bust, looking confused for a moment.

"You just don't understand what I am," they said eventually, shaking their head at the dumb and naive child.

So that's what Rosan did. He ripped out his innocence and locked it into the castle.

The monster out there was what was left of it. That would explain why he was suddenly so cold blooded. His change in nature had been too drastic and too fast.

It made sense now, knowing that it wasn't natural.

The Virus gazed down at the boy once more, black sclera pulsing before they slowly but surely allowed their corrosive energy to seep into the sleeping child.

Not enough to hurt him because doing so made them feel… wrong. But it was enough for them to stake their claim...

For now. They would slowly but surely trickle into him and get the child assimilated with their essence.

When the day come for Rosan to claim this part of him, the viruses influence would run deep.

In the meantime, they would... observe this boy. He was incredibly valuable.

The virus wasn't capable of harming this child. This was Rosan's body after all...

But they had been playing it smart this entire time. They had learned patience as a result.

The smartest play they could make, was to manipulate and groom this boy into their perfect monster.

The Virus gazed out into the real world again, noting that they could see a tad clearer and mulled over their current dilemma.

Rosan was donning a set of jet black wings. He had drawn from the castle to activate them which was why the little Rosan here had woken up... but he had no idea that was the case it appeared.

Foolish, but that form they took…

Rosan called it Shinigami. The Kami of death. Those glorious black wings that signified all the violence that would soon follow in Rosan's wake.

Did the black signify that Rosan truly had fallen from grace?

I don't know who you are but thank you.

Just who were they?

They were a virus. Destruction given form. They were a plague who was slowly but surely spreading their sickness, degrading all in due time.

This Reaper was death correct?

Very well then. The Virus would be known as Pestilence.

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

"What's your name?"

Pestilence glanced down at the child in annoyance.

He was awake today for once, gazing up at them with curious eyes.

Pestilence noticed that he seemed to be awake more often and every time, he'd try to initiate a conversation with them.

"Does it matter what my name is?" they asked with a raised brow, gazing down at the child.

He nodded without hesitation. "I dunno where we are but everytime I'm awake, you're here. It looks like we're stuck here together so we should get along!"

Pestilence sneered. He had basically said the same thing to Mod hadn't he? Did this little brat really think they were that easy?

There was a hopeful look in his eyes, a far cry from the sadness and tears he normally exhibited.

"I don't wanna tell you my fucking name, how about that?" Pestilence scowled.

At the way his gaze immediately turned downcase, Pestilence thought they would have felt satisfaction...

"Oh, sorry," he mumbled, looking crushed. "I did it again... I assumed you were my friend without actually checking."

Pestilence felt their annoyance grow. "Why the hell would you assume we're friends? What gave you that idea?"

They didn't like looking at the redhead.

"...I thought..." Rosan began, backing away slightly.

"Thought what?!" Pestilence snarled. "Thought you just needed to say a few words to win me over? Thought I was gonna be like your precious Mod and coddle you every step of the way?!"

"..." Rosan wilted. "Sorry it's just... you look like my mom so I thought you would want to be my friend."

Pestilence clenched their fist. "You have no idea who I am, kid," they warned.

"I dunno who you are but... you picked her appearance right?" he asked knowingly. "I don't think anyone who looks like mama could be bad."

"You don't know anything about me. Stop speaking like you do," Pestilence warned again. "If you knew half the things I was capable of, you'd be crawling away in fear."

"But I don't know any of that," Rosan said with a frown. "I just know that I don't feel alone because of you."

"..." Pestilence scoffed and looked away.

He just didn't know what plans they had for them.

"Pestilence."

Rosan blinked and tilted his head. "Is that your name?"

"What the fuck do you think it is?" they bit back harshly.

The redhead hummed. "Can I call you Pe-chan? Pestilence is too long."

Pestilence twitched and glared at him. "I don't give a fu—"

They cut themselves off and took a deep breath.

"Call me whatever you want. I don't give a damn. Now come here," they demanded.

Rosan nodded and Pestilence only grew more annoyed at how happy the boy seemed.

They only wanted to keep contact to see the outside world. What the hell was going through his damn head?

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

"Pe-chan, why are we trapped in here?"

Pestilence gazed at Rosan and pondered the question. "Because you're weak," they said bluntly.

Rosan flinched at that, wilting in their hold.

The virus rolled their eyes. "Don't be upset because of the truth. You're weak so your other half discarded you like yesterday's trash."

"Oh..." Rosan said quietly. "So there's two of me now?" he asked cautiously.

"Yeah," Pestilence replied.

The other Rosan was currently happily in a relationship with the blonde by the name of Meiko.

"He's enjoying the life that you should be enjoying. Instead, you're locked in here with just me as your company," they snorted in amusement. "I'm not even supposed to be here."

There was a tense silence, before a sudden wave of negative emotion hit Pestilence, causing their eyes to widen.

"What...?" Rosan asked quietly. "Y-You weren't supposed to be with me?"

Pestilence blinked at that, warily gazing down at the child who's sclera were growing steadily darker over time.

"Nope. I entered while it was being created," she answered slowly, gauging their reaction

"..."

Rosan said nothing... before an intense anger washed over.

"You're trapped in here? You're a prisoner?" he whispered with wild eyes.

Pestilence flinched in surprise at that. "...Yes?" they replied, not sounding too sure.

"That's not right!" Rosan exclaimed. "You weren't supposed to be trapped in here!"

"He's more concerned about me?" Pestilence asked in surprise.

"I was too weak to be out there... but you didn't do anything!" the redhead frowned deeply. "We have to get you outta here."

Pestilence blinked, completely bewildered. "I can't go out there. This might be a prison, but this is the safest place for me," they said bluntly.

Rosan blinked. "Why? What's wrong?" he asked in concern.

The virus barked a laugh. "I go out there and I die. That little monster known as your other half is gonna slaughter me without a second thought when he realizes what I did. Don't even get me started on Mod."

The redhead looked conflicted. "That's not... no they won't," he replied.

Pestilence rolled their eyes. "Didn't I already tell you? I'm not a good person. Rosan has every reason in the world to hate me. Once he realizes I exist, I'm dead."

"But I'm Rosan... and I don't want you dead," Rosan replied frantically, eyes going wide. "You're all I have Pe-chan! I can't lose you!"

"Well in case you didn't notice... you're not the Rosan that matters," Pestilence replied blandly, white hair jostling in their amusement. "The one out there is getting stronger and stronger, and you're sleeping all the time. What exactly are you gonna do?"

"..." Rosan had a troubled expression on his face. "I'll... I'll stop them," he said.

Pestilence raised a brow in shock. "What...?"

"I'll protect you, Pe-chan!" Rosan said viciously, black sclera pulsing with protective fury. "I don't care if they hate you! You kept me warm and safe and you're my friend!"

The virus gazed at the redhead in disbelief.

They hadn't even manipulated him. Beyond placing their essence inside of him, Rosan had not suffered anything at Pestilence's hand.

This desire to protect them... it was just the boy.

"Shit," Pestilence thought in alarm.

Was this how he got Mod? Was it really this easy for him?!

"And how do you plan on doing that?" Pestilence said, choking on their words slightly.

"I'll get strong," he swore, eyes glowing with anger. "I won't let them hurt you. I'm your only friend right now so... so I'll keep you safe!"

Pestilence stared at them for a long moment and sighed. "Idiot... when did I say we were friends?"

"We're friends!" Rosan said assertively. "Since we're friends, I'll protect you, Pe-chan!"

Pestilence ignored the tingle and sighed. "Whatever you say, optimistic prisoner."

Rosan nodded and yawned, tucking easily into their body like they had done so a dozen times.

"Am I just a pillow for you?" they asked in some amusement.

"Tell me what happens in the real world?" he asked curiously.

Pestilence stared at them. "Fine. I'll tell you."

He smiled at them, before shutting his eyes. It didn't take long for his quiet snores to release and Pestilence grunted as they felt the breath brush against their skin.

Who was this kid? Did he even hear himself? He was going to go against himself to protect the virus who hated them?

How stupid was he?

"Stupid," they muttered, staring down at the idiot with a frown. "You're stupid."

Pestilence stared at that monster on the outside, the one who was capable of fighting a man with a bear zoan.

"You don't stand a chance against him," they muttered, feeling something unpleasant at the thought of the prisoner going against the Rosan on the outside.

Then, a thought occurred to Pestilence.

"How are you able to feel anger?" they thought in confusion.

Anger was the only emotion that Pestilence could never feel from them.

In fact... how was the Rosan on the outside capable of feeling emotion again?

...

Pestilence didn't like this. Pestilence didn't like these strange thoughts at all.

They wanted to go back to not thinking. Go back to the bloodlust that they so craved...

But it seemed impossible.

Pestilence had condemned Mod for falling for Rosan's tricks... but it seems they were no better.

Who was truly the pathetic one?

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

The castle had been steadily getting weaker.

Pestilence had an inkling but gazing at the steadily cold prisoner that was Rosan confirmed it.

The more the Rosan on the outside got better, the weaker the castle got... and the more emotions the Rosan on the inside lost.

Pestilence didn't really like that. They had been getting used to this boy.

Losing him would put a damper on their plans...

Not only that, he had been sleeping far more. He hardly stayed awake for more than an hour, quick to fall back asleep in their grasp as the virus watched the outside of the world.

The only reason they deigned to mention something new was... because right as the castle grew to its weakest, complete disaster struck.

Meiko, Rosan's lover... Rosan's goddamn lover had died in his arms.

The result was so disastrous that Pestilence jolted in shock at hearing the Rosan she was holding let out a scream of distress.

His eyes shot open, tears instantly flooding his eyes as he let out an anguished scream.

"H-Hey!" Pestilence shouted, wincing as the child's screeches nearly deafened her.

Rosan didn't hear them. The redhead just howled, tears spilling everywhere as the castle shuddered.

"P-Pe-chan, it hurts!" he wailed. "W-Why does it hurt?!"

Pestilence bit their lip in confusion.

What were they supposed to tell him? They didn't even know what was going on!

Was his body changing once more?! Was this the effect of the one named Meiko dying?

Rosan continued to wail in sheer agony and the sound was beginning to grate on them.

"Stop crying!" Pestilence demanded awkwardly.

"I-I can't!" the 8 year old sobbed. "I don't know what's happening to me!"

Pestilence reeled back in confusion as the child continued to sob. At the same time, in the outside world, the Rosan there's expression vanished.

"Did that crazy idiot shove all his emotions back into the kid?! What's wrong with him?!" Pestilence raged in annoyance.

Dammit all! What a nightmare!

"H-Hey..." Pestilence said awkwardly, running a hand through the redhead's hair. "It'll... be alright?" they tried.

They had never done this shit before. Reassure? Pestilence? This was normally the perfect time to break and take over their target.

Shit. Um... what was the right thing to do here?

Pestilence tentatively pulled Rosan into a hug and watched as the boy immediately latched onto them, shuddering as another sob ripped through their frame.

The virus cringed back and just slowly pat his back, even as the redhead began steadily falling asleep.

"He's seriously just shoving off his emotions when things go bad?" Pestilence said darkly, eyes flashing in annoyance.

That... wasn't very fair at all to this Rosan right here.

Take his emotions away as you healed... only to shove them right back onto him when you couldn't handle it.

Cruel. What a cruel punishment.

Pestilence didn't like that their Rosan was being submitted to it. Remain and suffer at the actions of the monster on the outside... or disappear and become one with the monster who had made him suffer.

There was no winning for him... So Pestilence needed to draw up a winning play.

Yes... Pestilence knew how to assure their freedom. It was obvious now.

As Pestilence decided on their course of action, they slowly but surely blanketed the child fully in their aura.

Yes it really was obvious. There was only one thing to do.

Save Rosan.

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"Pestilence, Famine, War, Death… all names that herald the apocalypse," Sengoku muttered, staring at the grinning lunatic of a woman, along with the somber and cold man.

"Arrogant, isn't he?" Kizaru drawled, dusting himself off slightly.

"...No, he's right. If left to his own devices, Portgas D. Rosan will bring about the end of the world," Sengoku said gravely.

Not even a sure kill move had managed to put him down… he merely absorbed the life force of another human and restored his own vitality. Was Modification truly capable of doing such things?

The ability to Modify... somehow Rosan even exceeded what he thought the fruit could do.

Just what was he? What was Portgas D. Rosan?

Not to mention... what had happened to Kuzan? Where was he? Did Rosan somehow steal the abilities of Bartholomew Kuma? What had he done to the Admiral that was dominating the fight?

Troubling... this Rosan seemed to possess a technique that the other had never shown...

"They're talking about you sweetheart," Pestilence mused, eyes glowing in barely restrained joy.

"…" Famine said nothing, heavy gaze roving over all the soldiers there.

Pestilence pouted. "Aww, don't be such a stiff! It's your first taste of freedom in so long and you're brooding?!" they asked.

They turned towards Famine and crossed their arms over their bust. "Will a kiss make you smile?" the virus asked curiously.

Famine turned towards Pestilence with a neutral expression. "Now's not the time, Pe-chan. We're in the middle of a war," he replied softly.

"I think that makes it even more perfect!" Pestilence grinned eagerly.

"I mean just look! So many victims! It's a dream come true!" they sighed in exhilaration.

Pestilence disappeared from their spot and appeared in front of an unsuspecting Marine.

The marine attempted to step back from the exotic and terrifying woman, only for her dainty hands to grip him with excruciating force.

"It's rude to back away from such a beautiful person," Pestilence crooned, expression turning sad as their dress lashed out wildly in every direction. "You'll make them feel unwanted."

The poor victim tried to speak but he let out a cry of pain, that turned into a scream of agony as his arm began degrading.

"Isn't being a Marine so boring?" Pestilence asked curiously, eyes gleaming maliciously.

"Why not join my side! It's really nice over here. We'll consider this an apology for you being so rude to me~," they assured.

"White Rage," they crooned, black aura roiling off their body and surging forward.

"Someone help him!" A marine shouted in terror.

But despite the scream, no one was eager to close the distance between themselves and the maniacal woman pulsing with that strange black energy the Red Devil had used to drain the Marine from earlier.

Stolen content warning: this tale belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences elsewhere.

Everyone was too afraid to become a skeleton and that fear paralyzed them.

How Pestilence loved that. They loved it so much.

The marine's screams of horror continued as the wave of dark energy washed over him, before anger filled his voice and he let out an unhinged screech.

Black goo began covering his skin and Pestilence watched in joy as their creation lunged forward, leaping onto his shocked and confused ally with pure violence.

He snarled violently and clawed away, letting out a shriek as the victim underneath him wailed in terror.

"Kahahaha!" Pestilence laughed, spreading their arms in joy. "Freedom feels so good!"

The virus laughed psychotically and as they prepared to fire off an even larger White Rage, they were suddenly forced to halt their action.

A beam of light careened towards the giggling Pestilence and they watched it approach with wide eyes, before a wall surged upwards and blocked it.

Famine floated over to Pestilence with a sigh, bodies dropping in his path as they felt the strength leave them. They began unintentionally kneeling for the black and red haired man, shuddering as he barely spared them a glance.

"What will we do?" Famine asked. He stared at Pestilence's creation, the corrupted man snarling ferally at anyone and attacking friends and foe alike.

"Seems like we're being targeted again by those Admirals," Pestilence frowned, eyes pulsing madly.

The war seemed to still be going strong. While the Whitebeard Pirates seemed to be evacuating, the Marines gave chase, hellbent on finishing the job.

"Look at them," Famine said softly, peering at the pursuing Marines. "Unable to think with nothing but their blades. Should such violent men really have a say in how the world should turn?"

"That's just how the world works," Pestilence shrugged helplessly. "Winners dictate the course. Losers have no choice but to follow it... and the only way to truly win, is to be the more violent person. Peace and kindness don't move people, rage and war does."

Famine sighed at that. "That same violence caused my life to spiral like this. Violence only breeds violence... so I suppose I have to become the most violent person alive."

Pestilence smiled at that but before they could say anything, the sound of footsteps interrupted them.

The duo turned around in unison, causing Pestilence to raise an amused brow at who had approached them.

"F-Father?" Ram choked out in confusion, wiping the tears from her eyes as she regarded the image of her father.

He looked... weird. He felt weird too. Ram was... she was really confused.

Tears continued to stream down her eyes, as she repeatedly sniffed and Famine gazed at his ring with a half lidded gaze, feeling a slight pang at the mess of her face.

"So you're awake, Ram," Famine said softly, wiping the tears from her eyes and watching as she shuddered under his grasp.

His heart panged again before he steeled it.

"Go ensure the unconscious ones make it out. They are fully incapacitated and you're very useful for them," he instructed, taking a step back.

Ram flinched back, doubt on her face.

"What's going on…?" she whispered in confusion. "Why is the virus out? Why is part of your hair black? Where's… where's Auntie?"

"What is this, 20 questions?" Pestilence asked, sneering at Ram.

Ram's teary eyes transformed into a glare.

"I wasn't talking to you!" she snarled immediately.

"Oh?" Pestilence asked in amusement. "Well I'm talking to you, bombshell," they mocked.

"Why you..." Ram growled, as anger replaced sadness. "What did you do to Father?! Where is Auntie?!" she repeated, hand transforming into a blade.

"That's enough," Famine interrupted before the two could come to blows. "There's no need to fight," he said softly.

Pestilence pouted. "Boo you're no fun. I was just getting started," they complained.

Famine said nothing, sighing softly as he focused his gaze onto Ram.

The ring flinched at seeing his black sclera and took a cautious step backwards.

Famine noted the movement and slowly closed their eyes, letting out a sadder sigh this time.

"Your assistance is unnecessary. Pe-chan is all I need currently," he said bluntly, turning away from Ram. "It's time for you to leave Marineford. Please take the others and flee."

The ring looked stunned at the order.

"L-Leave you? But why?! I can't just leave you!" Ram exclaimed. "W-What happened to you, Father? Who… who are you?!"

Famine's features darkened. "I gave you an order, Ram," he said firmly.

"Yeah, wouldn't wanna disobey daddy would ya?" Pestilence mocked.

Ram didn't know what was going on. Her father but not father was staring her down. The stupid bitch of a virus was out in the open…

"Auntie?" she called tentatively.

There was a tense silence and Ram was sure her Father heard her call for Auntie but he just continued staring, black sclera pulsing.

"...You should go, Ram. Please make sure the others make it out fine. I'm relying on you to keep them safe," Mod said eventually. "I'll be fine."

Ram hated that Auntie was lying to her. She was not fine… not by any stretch of the imagination…

But orders… but orders were orders.

"Under... Understood." Ram nodded stiffly, wiped the remainder of her tears. She hesitantly made her way to the unconscious bodies and frowned.

She glanced back hesitantly and met the backs of Father and the virus, before reluctantly turning away from them.

"I hope one of you wake up," Ram muttered to herself, fearing for father's safety.

She was scared for all of them. Luffy looked close to death... Ace's injuries were intense too.

Who was going to save Rosan?

...

Ram glanced back once more and met the gaze of Hancock in the distance.

"Bring them to the sea! I will help you, escort them away!" Hancock mouthed to the ring.

They had met during the trip to Impel Down so this wasn't strange to Ram at all. She initially had a problem with how grabby Hancock was with Father but it had gone away very quickly.

Ram nodded stiffly in response.

"Let us help you," Jinbe offered, carrying Luffy's body carefully.

"Us too!" the Whitebeard Pirates shouted, easily lifting Ace and Sabo up. "We'll help to the best of our abilities."

"..." Ram said nothing, just nodding her head slowly.

Pestilence huffed in dissatisfaction. "You should have told her off more. Don't tell me you're upset that she asked who you are," they scowled.

"...Of course I am," Famine replied softly.

"Well you shouldn't be. I'm the only one who's opinion should matter," Pestilence told him.

"What is this? What have you done, Pestilence? Who is this? How are you out?" Mod finally spoke up, biting her lip at the sudden turn of events.

"Whatever do you mean Mod?" Pestilence retorted. "I saved him like you wanted. Well done stabilizing his insides. He would have died without you."

"That's not… this isn't the Rosan that I know," Mod said hesitantly. "How is that possible. Where is my Rosan?"

"I wonder," Pestilence cackled.

Mod bit her lip and flinched as the connection forcefully cut.

This wasn't… what was going on? Where did this Rosan come from? Who was this Famine? Was he Rosan? Did Pestilence make him look like Rosan?

She needed to… she needed to investigate urgently.

Where was her Rosan?

Famine suddenly wrapped an arm around Pestilence's waist and leapt away, grunting as a sharp blade cut into his body.

He landed near a mass of people that whirled around to him but the man ignored them, black tendrils merely moving ominously.

It was soon made apparent as simultaneously, the bodies around Famine began panting, slowing down drastically as they seemed to age in real time.

"What's… happening to us?" A marine rasped, collapsing on his knees as the energy left him completely.

Famine's eyes didn't flit over to him, too focused on the wielder of the blade.

"I'm sorry. I can't seem to control my hunger," he said softly, wound sealing shut as his stamina was forcefully restored to him…

At the cost of the people around him... the black tendrils detached from their bodies and snaked back onto his hair.

"None deserve the right to stand in your presence," Pestilence sighed warily. "They must kneel to show respect."

Famine's white wings flapped idly, staring at the curious Hawkeye Mihawk with a tilted head.

"Who are you?" Mihawk asked, gazing at his own body and then the deteriorating bodies around the black haired man. "You are different from both versions of Ambitionless I've encountered."

"All of you are saying the same thing… I'm already tired of hearing it," Famine replied softly.

It was tiring, being constantly asked who he was. As if he were the impostor…

It was very grating.

Mihawk continued to gaze at the strange version of Rosan, expression neutral despite his suspicion.

How odd. Such a strong presence this one carried. It was draining just being close to him...

Such a strange ability… just what had happened to Ambitionless?

There had been a tinge of disappointment, at seeing him die due to the foolish actions of Fire Fist… After all, the redhead had done a phenomenal job this war.

To see him throw it all away due to his brothers stupidity... Mihawk was disappointed such a talent had been snuffed out due to forces out of his control.

It filled him with some satisfaction at seeing the redhead alive, but it seems like his death was merely the gateway for this strange entity to appear.

"You wish to battle?" Famine asked, ice beginning to freeze the floor around him.

Pestilence wasn't nearly as fearless as Famine was, gazing warily at the World's Greatest Swordsman.

Mihawk stared at the duo for a moment, before gazing at the retreating Ram.

Then, he placed his blade away.

"No. I've already tried my hand at killing you and failed. You've already died but yet you stand here alive. Clearly if you're meant to die today, it's not at my hand."

"Besides, the reason I'm interested in battling you is currently running away. I did not realize Ram was capable of even transforming into a human," Mihawk noted.

Pestilence scowled. "So what? That's why you've lost interest?!" they asked.

"Yes. My interest in you without Ram, has significantly dropped," Mihawk stated bluntly. "Not to mention, you aren't the Ambitionless I'm interested in either."

Pestilence snarled in annoyance, black waves roiling off their body. "I'll make you regret that one day," they muttered.

"..." Famine gazed at the retreating back of Hawkeyes.

"Fucking asshole," Pestilence said, sighing in relief.

"Hmph," was all Famine said, turning away from the Warlord.

"I envy how fearless you are," Pestilence sighed.

"You don't have to worry. I'll protect you," Famine assured.

Pestilence sighed in bliss. "Sometimes, I find it hard to believe I was won over... and then I speak to you," they said happily.

"How are you alive, Red Devil?!" Sengoku shouted, grabbing both their attentions. "You shouldn't be breathing! That attack was fatal!"

It didn't make any sense at all. How could he even move about?! What was going on right now?!

Who on earth was that woman next to him infecting their soldiers?! Some type of necromancer?!

"…" Famine stared at the Fleet Admiral with an expressionless face. "Alive... I wonder if you could truly call it that," he said eventually.

Sengoku stared at the strange version of Rosan with a look of confusion.

What did he mean by that? Was this even the same Rosan that had been terrorizing them?

It certainly didn't feel like it... this didn't feel like the Rosan who was desperate to save his brother.

This felt like a Rosan who was here to inflict damage and judging by his skillset... the weaker Marines were in a lot of trouble.

Was this the source of how all the previous wielders died? It had to have been… those corrupted Marines exhibited the same symptoms…

What exactly was going on?!

Sengoku hadn't been able to glean Rosan's Devil Fruit for so long because he had never actually seen an effective user of Modification.

No one could properly utilize the fruit if Vegapunk was not in presence and considering the man loved to stay holed up in Egghead and the fruit offered too much to just be used for his research.

Clearly they should have just left it with the scientist. Sengoku wasn't even sure if Vegapunk himself knew of all the things Modification could do.

In the first place, he never considered it an offense based fruit. It's applications in the sciences and quality of life were unmatched... Anyone who utilized it properly, would have been an impossibly valuable asset with their control over what they could change.

But Rosan... even if Sengoku knew about what Modification could really do, he wasn't sure he'd be able to apply it to Rosan until now.

Even now he was finding it hard to believe. None of this was making any sense to him at all!

Weapons of war… that's what Rosan was geared to be.

His love of violence, his adeptness at it... No matter what form he may have been in, Rosan specialized in warfare to a worrying degree.

Rosan was a person who thrived the more enemies he was up against and being in the middle of a war, with so many opponents he was stronger than, made him excessively dangerous.

It didn't matter if he was nowhere near the strongest here. His skillset allowed him to widen the gap between the people he was stronger than and that was a numerous amount of their soldiers. More than enough of a percentage to make him a worrying threat.

The rampaging beasts that the strange woman (who on earth was that?!) created, along with the bodies falling in close proximity to the black haired man were proof of that.

This Famine… he lived up to his name, draining the life force out of people with but a touch...

Sengoku didn't like the implications that Modification could tamper with such things.

And Pestilence… one touch was all they needed to convert a person to their side.

Horrifying. They needed to be dealt with immediately. Rosan could not make it off this island. He caused far too many casualties.

"That woman..." the injured Garp called out in disbelief, clutching his wound tightly.

Sengoku turned towards his friend in confusion. "What is it Garp? Who is that woman?"

Garp shook his head warily.

He had nearly gone and killed Akainu himself at seeing Rosan's corpse lying on the ground... but all of that paled in comparison to the sheer relief, and complete horror, at seeing the next set of actions.

Rosan had always been violent but this was... the feral nature of that beast before wasn't like his grandson.

Rosan's violence, while Garp condemned it, was usually targeted to a specific type of people and they always had thought behind his actions.

But this was just violence for the sake of it...

Not to mention...

"That woman looks exactly like Portgas D. Rouge," Garp said gravely.

Sengoku froze at that. "What...? You're telling me that white haired woman looks like his mother?!"

What the hell did that even entail? Did the Red Devil create someone in his mothers image?

He even had that random silver haired girl show up out of nowhere! Was he capable of creating life?!

"Borsalino, deal with them now," Sengoku ordered.

"Yes, boss," the Admiral drawled, vanishing in a burst of light immediately.

Famine grunted, as a kick connected to his midsection and sent him soaring away.

Pestilence shrieked as a beam of light pierced their stomach. The virus immediately clutched their stomach and stared at Kizaru with wild eyes.

"Looking at me with such scary eyes," Kizaru drawled, holding his finger out as he kept his distance from the strange woman.

Famine felt a wave of fury wash over them as Pestilence held their midsection and he held out a hand.

The Admiral stepped back as the ground surged beneath him and he easily dodged the white wave of energy, before allowing a wild beast to leap through his body.

He stared at the feral Marine with a bored expression, noting the black pulsing from their body and the intelligible noises they made.

"Well now this isn't very fair," Kizaru drawled. "Putting my own soldiers against me. How cruel."

"Go," Pestilence rasped violently to her minions.

More and more began swarming the Admiral and Pestilence snarled in annoyance, dashing over to Famine's location and immediately pushing him backwards.

"We should go," they said, watching as Famine's eyes zeroed in on the admiral fending off the hoard of their minions.

"…" he said nothing, eyes pulsing ominously.

"Famine! There's nothing left for us here. We still have business to wrap up," Pestilence urged, choosing to be the voice of reason this time. "We aren't strong enough just yet and we've caused enough damage. That Admiral's gonna come straight for us and I'm not losing you."

Famine finally abated at that and frowned. "Eventually... I will earn my retribution but for now, I guess you're right—"

He suddenly paused what he was saying, before suddenly going alert. His eyes suddenly glowed with a feral light.

His gaze snapped towards a direction and he launched himself towards it just in time to intercept Admiral Akainu.

Ram watched with wide eyes, falling on her butt as she summoned a barrier to protect her family to the best of her ability.

She had been trying to run away, staying back to guard them... but she hadn't realized they were still being pursued by the Admiral.

All three of them were being carried off towards the direction Ram dictated but the Admiral who had struck down Father wasn't letting them get away scott free.

He already landed a heavy blow to the Jinbe carrying Luffy and the youngest brothers injuries were becoming concerning to the point where Ram had taken it upon herself to try and ward off the Admiral...

To almost no effect at all. Ram wasn't useful without Father. There was only so much a weapon could do without their wielder.

There was only so much a daughter could do without her father...

Akainu naturally didn't take too kindly to that and had immediately attempted to punch a hole through Ram.

Ram wasn't really worried about getting attacked in her human form. She wasn't human after all... but Ram was pretty sure she didn't want to get hit by magma.

Famine's eyes glowed maliciously, as a wall surged and blocked the Admiral from delivering a fatal blow to her. He waved a hand and summoned a pillar of white ice that stabbed directly through Akainu's midsection, merely forming a hole in the man's body.

"F-Father?" Ram whispered in surprise.

"...Are you okay?" Famine asked softly, not looking back at her.

"I'm okay..." she mumbled, pushing herself up slowly.

"Good," Famine said softly, eyes glowing brightly.

Akainu grunted at that. He had only managed to slightly hit Straw Hat but not only was Jinbe guarding him with his own body, someone was interfering.

"How did you live my attack boy?" a battered Akainu scowled. He looked like he had been put through the ringer by Whitebeard and the fact he was still raring to go was admirable.

Famine's response was to simply outstretch his hand.

"Deprivation."

A wave of pure white energy shot out and Akainu grunted, transforming his body into magma and avoiding the area around him degrading into nothing.

It was as if the very life was being sucked out of it. If he stayed in it, it was likely he'd suffer somewhat similar results.

The ground began disintegrating, seeming to erode before his very eyes and Akainu regarded the technique with a cold expression, only for his eyes to widen as the ground underneath him opened and swallowed him.

Before he could anything, the top closed and shut on him.

"Father never fought like that," Ram noted nervously, watching the swift and ruthless move.

"Rosan?" Jinbe called cautiously, clutching his injury with one hand.

He flinched slightly at seeing the pitch black sclera of the redhead with black streaks.

"You are about to meet up with Hancock, correct?" he asked Ram softly. "I saw you two communicating."

"Y-Yes?" Ram stammered, feeling nervous in a way she never had before.

As she looked up at the neutral expression of her father, Ram distantly realized she was terrified of this man.

If Famine noticed, he didn't say anything. He just looked past Ram and hummed quietly.

Then, he outstretched his hand and palmed the floor.

The ground surged upwards into a direct path towards the ocean and at the same time, he summoned a pure white horse.

"Black Horse," he said softly, putting a hand against the horse.

His creation neighed and leaned against him, not making a noise as it was encased in pure white ice.

"Take it. This will lead you to the ocean," he said quietly, ensuring that none but them could hear it.

Ram shuddered at that and nodded stiffly. "W-What will you do?" she chanced.

Famine gazed at her, before turning away. "Be careful. They will not let you escape easily."

With that he flew into the sky.

Ram watched him go with a look of trepidation.

As Famine remained stationary in midair, he glanced at his Raid Suit.

"Almost completely destroyed," he said softly. "I've drained much energy but I still feel tired too..."

Pestilence appeared next to him in a flash, a look of annoyance on their face as they glared at him.

"Are you listening to me?" they asked, crossing their arms.

"I always am," Famine replied bluntly. "I listen to everything you say. But you're far too afraid currently. You finally have a taste of freedom and you're running away."

"R-Running away?!" Pestilence spluttered, rounding on him with a look of shock. "So now you're acting like a reckless idiot because of that?! I would have thought that you would be the voice of reason!"

Famine grunted. "Fear isn't a good look for you Pe-chan. You're much prettier when you're confident."

Their jaw dropped at that. "Afraid?! I'm cautious! Clearly it was a good decision because you've turned completely reckless right now. I swear, if you just listen to me we can really just— mghmm!"

Famine idly pulled Pestilence close and silenced them with a kiss, still assessing the situation as he watched Ram and co hesitantly board his horse.

"That won't work every time you asshole," Pestilence muttered with a scowl, sinking into his frame as they conceded.

"It hasn't failed me yet," Famine replied, eyes roving over to all the threats.

"You have a massive target on your back. They want you dead," the virus stated with a frown.

"I am almost out of energy. I need more... besides I have a lot of pent up aggression currently. It would be best if I just worked some off right now," he said idly.

"I've got plenty of ways to work off aggression but I guess I understand," Pestilence sighed. "Alright, let's go —"

"Zehahaha!"

"Hm?"

Pestilence and Famine both paused at that laugh and turned towards the source.

"Famine, I swear," Pestilence snarled, pushing the man back violently as his eyes narrowed. "That guy beat your brother and we don't know how clean it was or not, but if he was able to beat him, he can beat you. You don't have enough energy to be recklessly charging everyone you see. For Kami's sake Famine, you had a hole in your midsection not long ago!"

The redhead stared at Pestilence, eyes still narrowed before he let out a tense breath. "And you always pretend like you're so tough. If you're really that worried just say it," he grunted.

The virus nearly bit him, a vein of annoyance forming.

Annoying fucking...

"Well well! You've gotten even more interesting, Red Devil!" Blackbeard cackled, gazing directly at Famine with a wide grin. "You've shocked the world with all your actions! But that's not the most shocking thing that'll happen today! I'll have to take the stage for now!"

Famine watched as the one who defeated Ace grinned widely.

"Zehahahaha! Watch me! I'm about to shake the foundations of the world!" Blackbeard shouted eagerly.

"Teach, what is the meaning of this?!" Sengoku shouted in confusion. That confusion then turned into horror as he noticed the assortment of people behind him.

What on earth…? All these people… this was...

These were the level 6 prisoners of Impel Down! These were the worst criminals in the world!

Sengoku went pale. Did Blackbeard free all the prisoners from Level 6?! What on earth was he thinking? The sheer danger all of them emitted... there was a reason they wanted to be erased from history!

Wait a second… if all the prisoners from level 6 were set free then that meant…

Then it meant that even he was free...!

Whitebeard's eyes narrowed at the sight of Teach laughing.

"Teach," Newgate rumbled, ignoring the heavy burns Akainu inflicted onto him in their fight.

He was beginning to slow down, Rosan's boost to him wearing off little by little as the Emperor expended more and more of his stamina.

But it was still more than enough. Marineford was practically tipping at his power and it was thanks to that redheaded brat...

Whitebeard had felt the most guilt outside of Rosan's family at what had transpired. After all, Ace was his foolish son after all and despite Rosan being his older brother, Newgate had a responsibility that he hadn't been able to uphold.

He had forced Rosan to show far more than he probably intended and the redhead had expended himself far past what he should have done.

And the end result... was the redhead being the one who was struck a fatal blow.

To do everything right and still end up dead...

As the one being done the favor, it was an incredible shame for Whitebeard to bear such an ugly cross. He would never be able to handle the fact that someone had helped him so drastically and had died as a result...

Utterly shameful. Whitebeard was truly glad that the man had somehow survived, no matter how different he may have been now.

"That brat gave me a little bit of life... whatever happens to him, I'm sure he'll deal with it," Whitebeard grunted. "As for me..."

Blackbeard's eyes widened as Whitebeard's muscles bulged and he watched in horror, as the World's Strongest Man smashed the air with one arm.

"W-What the hell is this power?!" Teach shouted in shock, as a quake, reminiscent to a younger Whitebeard, raced towards him with crushing force.

"Showing your face in front of me? You must have a death wish," Whitebeard rumbled, glaring at him with all the fury in the world.

Famine said nothing, merely flexing his white wings as the air picked up from the heavy winds. He ensured Pestilence was fine and glanced at the action taking place below.

"He freed the criminals from level 6. That's not very good. Some of those people were very dangerous," the man pointed out idly, hand glowing as he contemplated sending a blast their way.

"We shoulda killed them like the dogs they were," Pestilence sighed, eyes roving over all the new pirates. "Now he's gonna be a problem in the future."

"Nothing changes. He still dies and his new crew will join for foolishly joining his cause. He caused this entire mess and kick started this entire war," Famine decided.

Pestilence shrugged. "Sounds good to me. He'll get what's coming to him eventually."

"So he's the reason this war started? That makes sense... but I'd still appreciate if you didn't try to kill him..."

The duo paused at that and turned towards the source, glancing warily at the figure across from them.

"...Teach is kinda my captain after all, I'm obligated to fight for him and I don't wanna beat up my son in the process. Missed too much of his life, would suck to start off on the wrong foot," Cutter grinned wolfishly, floating a relatively close distance to the duo.

He looked far more polished now, having cleaned up since his time in prison.

His pitch black hair was shoulder length and spiked downward, framing a handsome and rugged face that had stubby facial hair.

Cutter was tall. Taller than Rosan by what looked to be 3 inches.

Famine glanced at him, expression not betraying anything. "You've already started off on the worst foot possible," he informed him.

Cutter's grin dimmed a bit at that and he stared at his strange son with a curious expression. "How so?" he asked slowly.

"You joined the man that I vowed to kill no matter what. The same man who captured and handed over my brother to the World Government... and the same man who attempted to kill me. As far as I'm concerned, you're already dead," Famine said bluntly.

Pestilence immediately hissed at him through their connection. "Down boy!" they demanded.

The man scratched his unkempt black hair, spikes jostling as he peered at his son. "Raisa really didn't give you a good impression of me huh?" he mused. "Well, I can't really blame her. I did a pretty shitty move."

"We can't beat him. We stand even less of a chance of beating him than we do Blackbeard," Pestilence whispered through their connection.

"…"

"You're incorrect," Famine said idly, turning towards the pathetic sight of Blackbeard getting his face caved in slightly by Whitebeard. "Raisa did not raise me. We barely know each other. My animosity for you stems from your actions. You've yet to make a good one."

Cutter raised a brow high at that. "So that Sengoku wasn't lying huh?" the man mused darkly.

"You were raised by Roger's wife?" he asked calmly.

"You have a problem with my mother?" Famine asked warningly, turning his full attention onto Cutter. His eyes sharpened drastically and the air around him grew heavy.

Cutter shook his head honestly, shrugging his shoulders. "Not really, no. I'm sure the woman who raised you was a delight… she sacrificed her life to save her children after all… but I have a lot of issues with Roger."

"...I see," Famine said idly. "Tell me something Cutter… does your issue with Roger carry onto Ace now that he's dead?"

"That's the funny thing," Cutter snorted. "I wanted you to be the one who surpassed any kid Roger was going to have. Funny how you just tried to die for him."

Pestilence narrowed their eyes.

"...You wanted to raise me to kill Ace then. As one last play of revenge to Roger," Famine guessed.

"You're smart. Way smarter than me at least," Cutter chuckled. "Good answer. Since Roger died without me ever getting my revenge, I took a gamble and settled for the next best thing. I heard a few things after all regarding the South Blue."

"Ah, I think I get it now. After Roger died, your father lost his mind. Being unable to enact his revenge drove him to madness and he realized a child was the answer to some solution he had. I have no fucking clue how he came to that conclusion but insanity does things to people."

Famine mulled over Pestilence's thoughts. "Ace is my younger brother. I will not kill him. That will never be negotiable," he said bluntly.

Cutter sighed. "I figure you'd say that. You sacrificed your life for him after all…"

Those brilliant golden eyes of his peered at Famine's purple and Cutter stared almost curiously at him.

"So what exactly have you done to my son?" Cutter asked, expression not changing but air growing more dangerous.

Pestilence immediately went stiff.

"You aren't the same Rosan I met at Impel Down. You look the same... have the same voice... practically identical but you aren't him. Who are you? How did you become a different person?" Cutter asked in a friendly manner.

The man shrugged.

"Well, I guess that doesn't matter too much. Whatever you did to Rosan, return him. I wanted to speak to him more, not you."

Famine's brows furrowed and a flash of annoyance crossed his features that was quickly transforming into rage.

He was getting so sick of these accusations. What was it about him that made him not Rosan?

He was Rosan.

He was Rosan.

Why could no one get that in their skull? Why was he... being treated like an impostor? Was this not as much his body as the other?

Cutter idly dodged to the left, as a wave of black energy nearly consumed him whole.

"Wouldn't wanna get hit by that," he mused, eyes shifting to the person he was ignoring. "Is this your girlfriend? She's cute," he said proudly.

Then his brows furrowed. "But Blackbeard showed me a different picture. I thought you were dating some Devil of Ohara girl. She's also pretty cute. You have good taste... also are they fine with you sharing? The perks of being beautiful I guess," he shrugged.

Pestilence was snarling at the man now, eyes narrowed and teeth bared.

"Watch your mouth when you talk to him or I'll rip off your lips and sew it to your nuts," they warned.

Cutter turned his gaze towards the white haired woman and raised a brow.

"Who are you supposed to be?" he mused.

Pestilence scowled at him. "None of your fucking business. How are you even up here? What do you want?"

"I wanted to bond with my son," Cutter shrugged. "Now who are you? I'll give you once chance to answer only. I have a sneaking suspicion that you were the one that did something to him"

Famine stepped in front of Pestilence immediately at that, eyes narrowed.

"You aren't laying a hand on them. I'll make you regret every decision that lead to my birth if you do," he warned, protecting the virus with a dangerous look in his eyes.

Cutter snorted. "Kahaha! Is that so?"

Faster then either could react, Cutter appeared behind Pestilence.

The viruses eyes were wide and they whirled around, a bead of sweat falling down their cheek.

Mercifully, Cutter just pat them on the head.

"You aren't strong enough yet, fake son," Cutter muttered with a gleam in his eyes. "I've been in prison for 25 years and you still couldn't react well to me. You've got a lot of work cut out for you…"

"...But it'll have to wait. I've got obligations to fulfill but afterwards, I'll pick you up," Cutter decided, narrowing his golden eyes slightly.

The black haired man gazed at the battle field, predatory gaze peering at the battle happening.

"You can either return my son or I'll do it forcefully. The choice is yours," Cutter decided, rocketing off towards Newgate.

The former prisoner grinned ferally, scales covering his skin as he blazed through the air.

He made it just in time to intercept the fist attempting to strike the cowering Blackbeard.

A massive shockwave coursed through the battlefield at the moment of impact and many people were forced to cover their faces as a heavy wind nearly bowled them over.

Cutter threw his head back and laughed as he was pushed back slightly. "Man I'm rusty," he grinned excitedly. "It's been awhile since I got to move these bones of mine!"

The pirate glanced back at his captain and raised a single brow.

"Kahaha! A bad first impression, captain! I can't have much faith in you if you're cowering at the slightest problems!" Cutter said, grinning wolfishly at Blackbeard.

Then, he lunged forward again and the two clashed once more.

As his scales clashed against Whitebeard's fist, Cutter grunted and disengaged, shaking it idly.

He needed to train more… it had been a long time since he got to feel the sensation of even movement.

Blackbeard gazed at Cutter in shock, not expecting him to be able to weather a blow from Whitebeard like that.

"Zehahaha! Cutter! You're way more impressive than I ever expected!" he laughed gleefully.

Cutter snorted. "You thought I didn't have a bounty because I was weak? I don't have a bounty because they're trying to erase me from history and I've only committed one crime that I immediately got arrested for… isn't that right Sengoku?" he asked amusedly.

Sengoku was shaking in disbelief. Of all the things Blackbeard had done…

To free this man… that absolute fool! What was he thinking?!

"Rocks D. Cutter," Whitebeard rumbled in surprise. "You're alive brat?"

Cutter sneered at Whitebeard, all semblances of that friendly aura gone. "Yeah I am, traitor. Too bad you won't be for long."

"Traitor? What are you spouting brat?" Whitebeard grunted in some confusion.

"Don't play dumb. You think I don't know how buddy buddy you were with Roger?" Cutter raised a brow. "Well, whatever. You've already picked your side long ago and I'm here to cash in."

Whitebeard's muscles tensed. "Just try it."

"Trying means I have a chance of failing!" Cutter exclaimed grinning wildly, clenching his fists eagerly.

"Blackbeard! Do you have any idea what you've done?!" Sengoku roared in fury. "This isn't a man you should have set free! Why would you do such a thing?!"

Blackbeard laughed eagerly. "Maybe not for you! But for me?! Cutter is proving to be more and more valuable by the second!" he exclaimed.

Shiryu grunted. "He sure is hogging all the spotlight."

"A bigshot no name?" Catarina Devon mused with interested eyes, gazing at the man brazenly standing off against Whitebeard.

"He's got balls, I'll give him that," Burgess cackled with wild eyes.

Cutter rolled his eyes at the attention he was receiving. "Why is everyone so wary of me? I'm not my brother. I'm nothing like him at all… in fact, my son acts more like him than me and I've only heard about him today," he shrugged.

"Your son?!" Teach asked with wide eyes. "You have a kid?"

"Yeah that's right. He's damn impressive too," Cutter nodded in amusement, gazing directly at the Famine staring down at him. "The reason Sengoku there is so afraid of the Red Devil, is because I'm his father and my brother is his uncle."

There was a tense silence at that, before Blackbeard's eyes bugged.

"WHAT?!" Teach roared in shock. "You're that dreamers pops?!"

Blackbeard looked up at Famine with wide eyes, gazing rapidly between him and Cutter.

"..." Famine said nothing, merely ready to escape at a moments notice. Pestilence was clutching him with both hands to ensure he didn't get to do something stupid before they stopped him.

"The one and only," Cutter grinned wildly. "He's been making me proud and I've only known him for a few hours! He really is a Rocks isn't he, Sengoku?! Looks like your fears came true and I didn't even have to do anything else!"

Waves of horror coursed through the field at the fact that someone had confirmed to be the Red Devil's father.

It was not because they knew what Cutter was dangerous... it was because anyone who was the parent of the demon named Rosan could not have possible been good news.

It didn't help that their Fleet Admiral seemed so repulsed at the idea that this man in particular had been set free.

"That is cousin's father?" the retreating Hancock thought in shock and confusion.

Sengoku said nothing, red in rage as everything went to hell right before his very eyes... right before victory struck.

Portgas D. Ace was escaping Marineford, Portgas D. Rosan was somehow alive and Rocks D. Cutter had been set free, maniacal vengeance still firm in his stance.

The worst of it all, was that Portgas D. Rosan wielded a Devil Fruit he should have never in a million years consumed. He was quite possibly the worst person possible to be given a fruit like Modification because he seemed to be the perfect wielder for it.

20 years. 20 years he had wielded that Devil Fruit and it took them 20 years to finally realize that it was his Devil Fruit.

Not only that, Marshall D. Teach had pulled a cloak over all their eyes. His capturing of Portgas D. Ace, his ascension to Warlord, his visit to Impel Down... all of it was planned for this moment.

For the moment Blackbeard made his name known to the entire world.

He and Rosan were the same in that regard and Sengoku hated it. Two tactical monsters who orchestrated and planned their actions, waiting for the opportune moment to strike.

Sengoku hated the smart pirates. They would always pick and choose situations that turned advantageous for them, ensuring they benefited to the max degree from it.

That was Rosan and Blackbeard. Those two were the worst type of pirates to deal with because there was no dealing with them immediately, there was no luring them in. They were too paranoid to fall for such simple things like that.

That's why Sengoku had been pleased that Rosan died. With him out of the way, it would only be a matter of time before the entirety of the Straw Hats, Luffy and Robin in particular, completely collapsed.

But yet here he was, glaring coldly down at them. Nothing thrown his way was capable of permanently keeping him down. It was like dealing with the undead.

And now Teach was here to make matters even worse. Freeing Cutter was one of the stupidest things he could have ever done. The man was only fueled by mania and vengeance... and now he knew of the existence of his son.

This was a nightmare situation. Sengoku needed to salvage this to the best of his ability.

But how on earth was he going to do that?! Kuzan was nowhere to be seen, Sakazuki had temporarily vanished and Borsalino was dealing with their converted Marines with a reluctance that Sakazuki would chastise.

And to make matters worse, it looked like Cutter was about to engage Whitebeard in battle.

Sengoku grit his teeth.

When had things gone so out of control?! This war had evolved far beyond what it had initially been!

"So Newgate, did you have fun cozying up to Roger like the little coward you are?" Cutter asked curiously, clashing with the man one time and causing a temporary standstill.

The black haired man stepped away once more, eyeing Whitebeards naginata with an amused glint.

"You've become bold brat. Much different then that sniveling boy who used to hide behind his brother," Whitebeard retorted, clenching his fist as he prepared to spend his last few moments taking out as many of the Blackbeard Pirates as possible.

"Kahahaha! I was 10 when I watched my brother die and over the years, I watched the culprit attain all the glory in the world while I was forced to watch! The worst part is, I wasn't even able to enact revenge before he died," Cutter said, sardonic grin vanishing as his pupils transformed into slits.

"You, Linlin and Kaido sat there and let Roger do whatever he wanted. Vengeance never once crossed your mind… in my eyes, you're no better. So I'm going to kill you hear and get rid of your entire crew," the former prisoner swore.

"Just try it brat. You won't make it off this island," Whitebeard rumbled.

Cutter's grin was back.

"You've already got one foot in the grave, geezer. You think I plan on losing to that?"

He rushed his former crewmate once more and watched as Whitebeard tensed his arms.

The World's Strongest Man slammed a fist in Cutter's path that smashed into his scales, blowing the man back.

"Those look weaker," Cutter grunted, looking at the scuff marks on his chest. "I guess even monsters get old."

Whitebeard scoffed. "I have more than enough to put you in your place, brat."

"Kahaha! You might! I'm way too rusty but that never stopped me!" he grinned, lunging forward once more with wild eyes.

He picked up a discarded sword off the ground and clashed with Whitebeard. Sparks rang through the air before Cutter's weapon suddenly broke.

The man seemed to expect it, already dashing closer into his guard with his scaled fists extended.

Whitebeard anticipated it, fist already glowing with the exertion of his fruit.

Both of them collided with the others face. Cutter's features caved slightly, while a burst of blood spurted from Whitebeard, as the sharp and scaly fist crashed into his already damaged body.

"No haki?" Cutter mused, ignoring the damage to his face as Whitebeard's blood splattered on his face. "You really are too weak right now. Edward Newgate, a shadow of who he used to be."

Whitebeard ignored the man and gripped his naginata with his other hand, coating it in his Devil Fruit and slashing towards Cutter with serious eyes.

Cutter's eyes widened excitedly as it crashed against him. A spray of blood flew from his chest as the vibrations launched him backwards and he touched the injury.

He grinned. "I guess you aren't washed up completely!" he exclaimed.

Whitebeard grunted. "You're like a completely different person. Since when do you enjoy fighting so much?"

"Since I realized I needed to fight for myself if I wanted to change anything," Cutter grinned.

With that, the man began to change.

Cutter began growing to ludicrous sizes as the black scales across his body grew more pronounced. His body elongated as he ascended to the sky.

"What?!" Sengoku said in shock, gazing at the serpentine dragon in horror as it shadowed the sky.

Cutter snarled down at Marineford, large and intimidating and immediately grabbing everyone's attention.

Gold hair was littered across his body, as two whiskers jutted out. Spiky appendages adorned the top of its serpentine body and the dragon roared in amusement.

So this is the Devil Fruit he stole from the Iris," Sengoku said, sweat dropping from his features as he gazed at the enormous dragon that looked similar, yet ominously different from Kaido's.

"You ate a Devil Fruit?" Whitebeard wondered, gazing fearlessly at the black dragon.

"Yeah I did. A prize for severing the bond of the only person alive I could trust," Cutter rumbled.

"It's the Uo Uo no mi, Model: Kokuryuu."

A Devil Fruit guarded jealously by the Iris... because no person was capable of wielding such an evil ability.

No, people who ate this mythical zoan were driven into madness, unable to withstand the dominant will of this Devil Fruit.

When Raisa, who was currently unconscious, had been a child, she had scoffed at such absurdity, vowing to herself that any offspring of hers would be the one to tame such a Devil Fruit, since she had already chosen hers.

And Raisa's vows would have come true... Rosan would have eaten this Devil Fruit in another timeline perhaps...

But in this timeline the Devil Fruit belonged to Cutter.

With that, Rosan's father opened his mouth and roared, firing a gigantic torrent of water of all things that washed over the entire battlefield.

"Nothern Wave!" the dragon roared violently.

"W-Water?!" Someone shouted in horror.

Crocodile sucked his teeth violently, ensuring that he wasn't in the vicinity of that attack.

Many other Devil Fruit users were of similar thought, running away from the battle taking place around Cutter and Blackbeard.

Whitebeard grunted, watching as heavy blast of water made its way to him, and slammed a fist into the air parting the water around him.

Others who hadn't fled the danger zone were not so lucky. The pressurized water engulfed them and screams of shock emitted as they were temporarily submerged.

Cutter snorted and cut off the stream, before focusing again.

This time when the dragon opened its maw again, icy blue energy forming this time.

"Northern Ice!"

A beam of pure ice careened towards Whitebeard this time, freezing the very air around it.

Once more Whitebeard attempted to crash a fist against the air, only for nothing to come out as Teach finally made his presence known.

"Zehahaha! Can't use your Devil Fruit to stop it?!" Blackbeard roared in amusement, right as the ice crashed into Whitebeard.

The sheer force of the ice, caved Whitebeard's midsection in but to Teach's utter shock, the man ignored it, turning towards Blackbeard without any hesitation.

A fist slammed into the Dark Logia and Teach howled in agony as Whitebeard put as much power into it as possible.

He released Whitebeard due to the pain of the immensely powerful man and that was the single greatest mistake he could have made in the moment.

Power immediately imbued Whitebeard's naginata, as he filled it with his Devil Fruit and prepared to swing it downwards —

Only to stop in his tracks.

Blackbeard hesitantly removed his hand from his face in shock, only to see a clawed and scaly hand punching through Whitebeard's chest. They were covered in dark flames that instantly burned the blood seeping off it.

"Who told you to take your eyes off me?" Cutter asked quietly, eyes smoldering in genuine anger as he turned his eyes towards Blackbeard.

"And who told you to interfere in my battle?" he asked his captain. "Don't do that again. Good fights are hard to come by."

"Zehahaha! My bad but we've gotta move along!" Teach grinned apologetically. "You were getting too wild with your attacks! You nearly drowned me you know!"

The man sighed, removing his claw from Whitebeard and drawing a fresh spurt of blood. "I don't pay attention to the people around me when I battle. I only focus on anyone who can kill me," he said bluntly.

"POPS!" screams of anguish rang out but Cutter ignored them.

"Whatever. I'm not at the level I want to be at anyways. I was never going to be satisfied with this battle," he muttered, transforming back to normal.

Especially not after the war he had against Raisa. Even after all these years, Cutter could not forget such a thrilling sensation.

"You'll get stronger!" Blackbeard assured confidently. "The world's gonna revolve around us soon! The name of the new Era will be BLACKBEARD! ZEHAHAHAHA!" he roared in amusement.

"Actions speak louder than words... but this is a pretty good start," Cutter admitted, turning towards his next target without hesitation.

Whitebeard looked at Cutter, expressionless, as the man dealt a lethal attack to him.

Then he turned to the cackling Blackbeard.

"You are not him," Whitebeard said bluntly, ignoring his fatal injuries for the moment.

"?" Blackbeard tilted his head in confusion.

"The one Roger is waiting for… it's not you Teach," Newgate said firmly.

"You can sever bloodlines, but their flames will never be extinguished. There are those who have inherited Roger's will, there will be some who inherit mine. Wills have been passed down like this for centuries and they will continue to do so."

"Someday, one will arise who will challenge the world and shoulder centuries of history. Sengoku, you and the world government fear the great war that will come to this world one day!"

Sengoku went pale. "Just die! Someone shut him up!" he wanted to scream.

But no one heard his silent plea. Worst of all, somehow the footage that they had cut off, had turned back on.

How the hell did that happen?! Who did it?!

The fleeing Buggy sneezed.

"I'm not interested in the treasure, but when it's found, the whole world will be turned upside out. Someone will find it. That day will come because…"

With the last of his strength, Whitebeard raised his voice.

"...THE ONE PIECE IS REAL!" He roared.

"…" Cutter stared at Newgate with a tilted head.

"You're right. Wills are always inherited. You, Roger… I'm sure your wills are going to be inherited…"

Cutter grinned in a feral manner.

"If you have that type of influence on the world, it's only a matter of time before someone follows in your footsteps. Even if you're considered the worst person in the world!"

"Zehahaha! He's dead!" Teach laughed, standing up and wiping the blood off his face. "Amazing Cutter! I didn't know you had a Devil Fruit! A black dragon?!"

Cutter snorted, turning his gaze towards Garp with murder in his eyes. "I went through hell to get it. Literally and metaphorically."

Garp grunted and stood up, making eye contact with Cutter.

"Zehaha! Before you do what you're about to do! Watch me! I'm about to turn the world upside down!" Blackbeard promised.

Cutter took his eyes off Garp and turned towards Teach with a curious eye.

"Sure. Let's see it. Don't be too long though, I still have one more person that needs to die," Cutter said bluntly.

Blackbeard grinned eagerly and his crew jumped into action, throwing a black cloth over them both.

Famine and Pestilence watched with a blank and curious expression respectively.

"What's he doing?" Famine asked.

"No clue," Pestilence shrugged. "Do you have that Save Point ready? We need to go at a moment's notice."

"Yeah. Falling into the hands of my deranged father would be less than ideal," he said truthfully.

Pestilence nodded in agreement. "A darkness human and a dark dragon. Trash fits trash I suppose," they sighed.

"Hmph," was Famine's noise of agreement.

"What's going on?!" someone shouted in confusion as a few minutes passed with nothing happening.

"What's he doing in there?" Cutter asked his new crew, brows furrowed slightly.

Laffitte smiled. "Something that will shake the world. Just a little patience and your curiosity will be rewarded."

The gold eyed man peered at them and shrugged.

Then, after what seemed like eternity, the cloth was removed and Blackbeard's laughing visage greeted them all.

"Zehahaha! Now watch!" Blackbeard roared victoriously.

Terrified shrieks rang through the already scarred battlefield, as a wave of darkness began sucking in Marines.

"First, my Logia the Yami Yami no mi!" Blackbeard announced with a grin.

The man clenched his fist in a familiar position, much to the horror of everyone watching.

"And this…"

He smashed it against the air with brutal force, watching in satisfaction as it cracked on impact.

"Is the power that lets me destroy everything! The Gura Gura no mi!"

The world shuddered as an earthquake that shouldn't be possible, shook the world around them.

"THAT'S IMPOSSIBLE!"

"TWO DEVIL FRUITS?!"

"HOW DID HE STEAL WHITEBEARD'S DEVIL FRUIT?!"

"ZEHAHAHAH! To all you commoners who love boring peace! To the marines who revel in complacency! WELCOME TO MY ERA! I'M INVINCIBLE!" Blackbeard cackled in true victory.

Cutter's brow shot up in real surprise. "Well I'll be damned. That's quite the ability you got there. Two Devil Fruits? That shouldn't even be possible," he pointed out, looking genuinely impressed.

"Two Devil Fruits…?" Pestilence muttered in shock, dress moving wildly due to the winds caused by Blackbeard's tremor.

They rolled their eyes in exasperation, as Famine immediately stopped the flowing of their dress with an even tighter grip.

"The situation has gotten grim. I was unaware that a person could eat two Devil Fruits," Famine said idly, watching as a wave of sand formed near him.

"What is this redhead?" Crocodile grunted, gazing warily at the transformed man.

"Crocodile… you performed your job well. Good job," Famine said idly, inspecting the battlefield once more.

Crocodile glanced at him with a blank expression, biting his cigar as he nursed his wounds.

"How did you survive certain death?" he asked.

The former warlord gazed at the mysterious woman next to the man and frowned.

"If it were certain, I would not be standing here," Famine replied, turning to face Crocodile. "Is there something you wish to discuss? I would think you'd be leaving now. You've fulfilled your obligations."

Crocodile scoffed, gazing at the black that infected both the redhead's eyes and hair. It pulsed with a mind of its own, inky black material looking glued to his very being.

"That man down there is your father?"

"By blood," Famine said.

So that Rocks D. Cutter was this redhead's father. The same man who had killed the person Crocodile hated most in the world... was the father of the person Crocodile hated equally as much.

"You must think you're so funny, hiding all these secrets," Crocodile sneered violently. "Reaper? You think me a fool? Was Alabasta just a game to you?"

Pestilence snarled at that and turned towards him but Famine held a hand up.

"Alabasta..." he mused. "Yes. It was. I was never truly worried about the outcome... I knew I was going to win. Though your attack of Robin nearly cost you your life," he mentioned.

"I fucking bet," Crocodile snarled furiously, ignoring the way his body wanted to sag.

The idea that his plan was doomed to fail, the moment the Straw Hats had set their eyes on him.

"You played me like a fool, redhead."

"That I did," Famine responded. "The moment Robin said you'd kill her for coming back to where she belonged, I decided to humiliate you in the worst way possible."

Crocodile clenched his fist at that, staring hatefully at the redhead. "Don't think you'll get away with this."

Famine stared at him and tilted his head to the side. "Haven't I already?"

"You performed well. You alleviated some of the pressure off of me and the mission was a success. Well done, it is unlikely that I will bother you anytime soon so feel free to work as if you are free," Famine waved him off.

Crocodile simply grunted. "To be fooled by someone who practically threw their life away. You make me sick," was all he said.

"Don't forget your role in this world, Sir Crocodile. Well done on your performance today. Next time we see each other, I expect more improvements."

Crocodile scoffed.

"Next time we see other, I won't resist the urge to kill you. This form you've taken is pathetic."

With that, he vanished to where his subordinates had gotten his ship ready.

Famine gazed at the spot he had been at.

"Blow up the bug," Pestilence said venomously, eyes smoldering.

"There is no need. His existence is humiliating enough," Famine replied calmly.

"You're too fucking nice," Pestilence snarled in annoyance. "Okay fine. Let's get out of here."

"I agree. We should leave," he said softly.

His family had been picked up by a submarine that was being ran by Trafalgar Law… the pirate at Sabaody.

Good.

All of them, including Ram had entered it. They were all still unconscious but only Luffy and Ace's life were truly in danger.

Hancock should encounter them soon as well so they'd likely be able to take refuge in peace at Amazon Island.

Everything was in order then. It was just about time to go —

"HALT THEM! STOP THE PIRATES FROM ESCAPING! KILL THEM ALL!"

Famine paused at that, eyes narrowed slightly as he heard the ravenous voices below.

"Famine, wait!" Pestilence called out in frustration.

Goddamnit! He was so fucking reckless! Didn't he miss the part where his damn dad said he was going to take him back?!

Ugh! Fine! Pestilence would get their escape ready. Famine could have his fun for now but he was going to get a stern talking to after this!

The virus kept an eye on Cutter, watching as he and Teach conversed with each other, before the man turned towards Garp with violent eyes.

"He's distracted for now. Good," they muttered.

Famine soared through the air and landed directly in front of the still aggressive Marines.

They froze in horror as the air around them grew heavy to a draining degree.

"Look at you; Your allies are in agony, the island is sinking, the war is over and yet, you still have such bloodlust in your hearts," Famine muttered.

"This is what I hate about you Marines. You can't focus on more important things. Everything is just to sate your own desires. But don't worry, I'll sate that bloodlust for you."

With that, Famine held a palm out.

"I will be your opponent. Please try and kill me instead."

"Hunger," he said softly.

Bright white flames began conjuring at his palms, before Famine swiped downwards and sent tiny embers flying.

Howls of agony rang out, as the white flames captured a small group of people… and then it began spreading like the plague, catching more and more of his enemies as it grew larger and larger.

The flames continued to grow, spreading like wildfire as Famine stared at the white blaze he created.

"Ah such a shame," he said listlessly. "Maybe we are more similar than I thought. I find myself wanting more to sate this hunger."

He leaned backwards to avoid the swipe of a sword and saw the trembling figure of a small woman.

"Hm?" Famine mused, taking in her figure. "You are… the one who was at Alabasta. The Marine who fought with her all, despite being hopelessly outmatched."

Tashigi trembled slightly harder, feeling an unexplainable and draining weight on her shoulder.

But despite that, she still aimed her blade towards the monster.

Famine stared at her, tilting his head to the left before taking a step towards her.

She flinched and swung with all her might watching in horror as the blade swung sluggishly through the air. It was like watching in slow motion and she immediately knew that it was going to fail.

Famine merely caught it, appraising her once more.

"You lack the bloodlust the other soldiers have. I have no interest in killing you," he said blandly, releasing the blade from his hand and allowing it to fall limply to her side.

"I apologize for breaking your hand back then. Continue to fight for a good cause. Do not let the corruptness of this organization seep into you," Famine said quietly, walking past her to continue his gait.

Tashigi shook, sagging in terror as she attempted to muster up the courage to face him.

But she couldn't. She couldn't because Tashigi was terrified of the Red Devil.

"Tashigi!" Smoker and Hina called, rushing her in worry.

"He… let me live," she whispered in confusion. "When I looked at him… all I could see was death! There was… no way I was going to survive… so why did he let me live?"

Not only that... he apologized? But why? Tashigi didn't understand.

Here he was, mercilessly slaughtering their troops but yet... he was apologizing to her?

She didn't understand. How could she ever hope to understand a creature like that?

Smoker grit his teeth and stood up firmly. "Red Devil!" he barked.

"Smoker, no!" Hina shouted.

The redhead paused and turned a single head back. "You've been given the opportunity to live twice already, Smoker. Are you truly sure you wish to throw it away by testing me one final time?"

"You've been humbled. I've opened your eyes to the negligence and you seem to be stepping onto the right path. You should listen to Hina," Famine said mercifully.

Hina flinched at that.

"I say all this... yet you're still intent on fighting me," Famine sighed, black sclera boring a hole into all of them and making them shudder instinctively.

"Very well. But I did say before, that I won't toy with you like Alabasta."

Smoker had no time to react, as an elbow planted itself firmly into his sternum, bypassing his Logia effortlessly and making him bend over completely.

Famine stared down at him, somber gaze glowing.

Then, he planted a foot against Smoker's head and crushed him to the pavement below.

"There. That should do it," he said softly. "I've already saved my brother. You should be thankful for such a thing."

He removed his foot from Smokers head. "Ingrain this defeat into your head. Allow it to fuel you. You can use such fuel to make the world a safer place. That's your job after all."

Famine glanced at Hina and saw her take a step back.

He shook his head. "This is the last time I warn you all. It would be a shame for me to kill the few good Marines."

"..." Hina said nothing, simply averting her gaze and certain death in the same action.

Famine continued his path of destruction, merely moving forward as those around him tried and failed to contain him.

All the while, black lines would lash out and attach to anyone around him, utilizing Modification to siphon their energy into him.

As Famine walked, he suddenly stopped in his gait, due to a figure stepping in his path.

"This time, I'll make sure you're thoroughly dead," Akainu promised, magma seeping off his body as his anger mounted.

To say he was less than pleased at being buried underground was a vast understatement. The ground hadn't held the man for long at all, because he erupted like a true volcano, searing the area around him as he broke through.

But the damage had been done. Akainu felt properly humiliated.

"Is that so?" Famine wondered, breathing a breath of cold air as a pure white ice began freezing the area around him.

Akainu glared down at him. "You've thwarted our victory, spawn of Rocks. Because of you, the son of Roger and Dragon got away. Only your head will make up for this."

"You attempted to kill both my brothers," Famine pointed out softly, combining his icy display with bright white electricity. "That is not a crime I will let slide. I would be honored to guide you into the afterlife."

Magma began pouring out of Akainu, as he prepared to lunge.

At the same time, Famine prepared to bury him in an avalanche of ice.

"STOP THIS!"

Both Famine and Akainu paused, watching as a small figure stepped in between them both.

Famine tilted his head.

Akainu scowled in annoyance.

Koby was stood between both the Admiral and Pirate, trembling in blatant horror as an extreme heat, along with a debilitating pressure squeezed him.

But despite that, he stood firm in his resolve.

"Why are we still fighting?!" Koby sobbed. "It's a waste of human life! Both sides took catastrophic losses so why are we ignoring the injured who can still be saved?!"

Famine froze at that.

"If we continue to fight, we'll just be dying for nothing! That makes us no better than fools!" Koby cried out.

"…" Famine said nothing, before sighing.

Right as he was about to agree, he heard Akainu say, "You've cost me precious seconds. A soldier who doesn't serve justice has no place in this navy!"

And all his hatred came roaring back.

Of course a scumbag Marine couldn't be reasoned with.

Famine's eyes narrowed as Akainu lunged forward, intent on melting Koby with his magma but before he could interfere, a figure dashed forward at incredible speeds and caught the blow.

"Well said, young man. You almost broke through to Rosan of all people," Shanks said softly, warding off Akainu's fist.

Koby shuddered in terror at that, turning hesitantly towards the scowling Famine.

"Look at that. A young and naive Marine, spilling his heart out and making a good point… and what does this Admiral do? Attempt to kill him without hesitation. Do you think that's right?" Famine asked, looking genuinely upset.

"This is the problem with the World Government. You have scum like this, who only care for violence, standing atop the world and expect everyone to be okay with this. It's sickening," he scowled.

Koby was about to say something, but the pressure became too much and the young Marine fainted.

"I understand how you feel, Rosan… but the war is over," Shanks said softly, crouching down to pick up a familiar Straw Hat. "I don't know what happened to you… but for a brief moment I felt you die. Now, you're like this."

Famine said nothing.

"Thank you for taking care of Luffy all these years. He really grew up," Shanks informed him. "I knew I could rely on you."

"I am merely fulfilling my duties as an older brother. Do not thank me as if you played any part in my decision," he said bluntly.

Shanks sighed with a small smile. "You've done a wonderful job in this terrible war but there's been enough violence for the day. There's no need to fight anymore, don't you think?"

"No need?" Famine whispered. "You don't understand. I've been fighting my entire life. Whether you mean those words or not, I will always have to fight. The world refused the life I wanted to live when I was four. All I know now, is how to fight."

Shanks sighed. "That might be true… but this right here is not your fight. You've already got what you came here for, Rosan. You have more important things to worry about don't you?"

"…" Famine frowned, before a spike of fear reached him and he turned towards the frantic Pestilence, gazing down at him with horror in their eyes.

"Very well. I'm done here then," he said softly.

He did have more important matters to attend to.

Famine turned away from Shanks and began floating into the air.

"Rosan."

He stopped and turned, catching the Straw Hat thrown at him.

"Make sure whatever problems you have, you deal with them, alright?" Shanks smiled.

"…" Famine said nothing and soared away.

"You are in so much trouble!" Pestilence snarled, gripping him fiercely to make sure he couldn't run off again.

"I know, Pe-chan," Famine said softly, eyes glowing.

"No you don't! Take this serious! I'll seriously kick your ass if you keep acting so reckless!"

"I know, Pe-chan."

"Stop fucking saying the same damn thing!"

"You won't acknowledge anything else I say anyways."

Shanks stared at the strange version of Rosan with a neutral expression, before turning towards all the Marines.

"If any of you are still eager to spill blood, then I'll accept any challengers!" Shanks announced grimly.

A tense silence followed after his declaration.

"What about you Teach? Or should I call you Blackbeard?" The Emperor asked.

"Hm?" Cutter paused at that, turning towards the voice who said that and stopping in his path towards that.

"Zehahaha! I'll pass! I got what I wanted. I don't wanna fight you right now. Let's go men!" Blackbeard announced.

Almost as if sensing it, Blackbeard turned towards his most unpredictable crewmate. "Cutter! We can't take on both Marines and Red Hairs crew! You just got outta prison! It's time to experience the world!"

Cutter mulled that over and sighed. "I guess playing a little smarter would do good."

What a shame. His son had completely disappeared before he could retrieve him.

Maybe acting so reckless was too much. He could afford to play a little smarter.

"Fine fine. I'm done here then," he conceded, running a hand through his shoulder length spikes.

He kept a long, almost curious gaze onto Shanks, before snorting and walking away.

"This worlds got some new interesting faces, that's for sure. I hope you don't mind if I do my own thing most of the time... it seems fun," Cutter mused.

"Zehahaha! You've proven yourself already and you saved my life! Do whatever you want!" Blackbeard cackled.

Shanks watched them go with a grave expression.

"Everybody listen... withdraw now and allow me to save face," he said, watching as all the adrenaline seemed to drain out of the very beings of the people there.

All but Akainu seemed to come to the same consensus.

"I'll deal with the burial of Whitebeard. You've broadcasted this whole war to the world, I won't allow you to make a spectacle of their deaths," he said firmly.

He ignored the sounds of protest and gazed at Sengoku, who merely grit his teeth.

The results of this war... they weren't what he wanted at all. Whitebeard was a consolation prize... he may have been the strongest man alive but Sengoku was looking towards the future.

And in that future, neither Ace or Rosan needed to be alive. This war was meant to kill them.

He didn't even know where Kuzan was... but they had sustained far too many injuries.

There was no point going to war with another Emperor.

"Very well," he conceded.

The death of Whitebeard would be enough for now. In the current present, Whitebeard's death was the most impactful.

Sengoku would just have to rely on the future to deal with threats they'd have.

"Thank you," Shanks said.

"This war is over!" Sengoku declared to the world.