Title: Seafaring Heartless: Acquiring Paradise

Disclaimer: I do not own One Piece. It belongs to Eiichiro Oda. The following story is a work of fanfiction only.

Summary: Sequel to Exit North Blue: The next leg of their adventure was just around the corner. Law smiled as he leaned against the railing of the Acanthuridae and looked out at the sunrise. His submarine was in prime condition, his nakama stood behind his goals, some of the best friends he had ever had were a part of his crew, and he had no reason at all to believe his plans would fail, or that he would be unable to acquire what he wanted.

Genre: Adventure

Rating: T

Pairings: I do not intend to write any pairings at this time.

Author's Note: Thank you to everyone who faved, followed, or reviewed! It's very encouraging to know people like this :) And thank you for sharing your ideas with me! I love hearing them. Some of you also suggested tidbits you'd like to see in future chapters. I will do my best to include them 3


Chapter Two

Londinium: Birthday at the Black Crane

Two days of sailing proved how strange the Grand Line could be, and why all the records insisted a log pose was a requirement for navigating the ocean belt. The weather changed in an instant, sunny one moment howling storm the next. At one point there was even snow, although that lasted a bare five minutes. Toward the end of second day it began to feel normal and the men began to take it in stride, but Shachi could only huff. He had tried to warn the others about that, but aside from Penguin who had experienced it a few times himself no one had really listened. Though Shachi had seen Mouse grin when Bepo finally admitted he was grateful they had stolen that Log Pose. The bear-mink had been extremely resistant to the idea that his keen instincts and navigational learning wouldn't be enough.

It was a pity they had to spend Penguin's birthday sailing, but even with the storm winds on the surface, Bepo had seemed to think the underwater currents would be even more unreliable. They did however manage to make the man's favorite meal for dinner, and the captain promised a belated celebration once they made land. To Shachi it seemed that Law couldn't care one way or the other about birthdays, but he understood how they might be important to the others. Penguin insisted he didn't care as long as they could get out of the insane weather, or possibly figure out how it worked better so that it became a more normal experience.

It was relief for more than one reason when dawn of the third day brought with it the sight of land. True it was only a vague misty apparition on the horizon of a single tall mountain surrounded by a ring of flat fields. If it was real they'd reach it in a few hours and be able to resupply. Perhaps they could get a meal that none of them had to cook, and hold a proper celebration for Penguin.

There was a largish black rock some ways from the coast with a lighthouse situated on top. Its beacon was less visible by daylight, although the stripes in a bright, almost fluorescent, green paint were so jarring compared with the natural surroundings that it would easily be visible for miles. What was visible was a tall man outside waving a set of flags and gesturing as if he were controlling traffic. His signals were clear though. It was okay to head on to the main port. It was a good thing so many of the crew had traditional sailing backgrounds, Shachi mused. A less familiar crew might not have understood those flags. It was strange though, to be on a ship with clear pirate markings and be signaled onward. This looked like a regular island and not a pirate port the way Saim had been.

Once they passed the lighthouse a town became easily visible on the shore before them, though perhaps small city was a better description. The buildings varied in height although a good half of them were on the tall side. Colors ranged in white, greys, browns, tans, and reds. Natural colors, as if the island had once been designed to blend in with the mountain behind it and now they no longer cared. Along the shore side facing them was an obvious port. Though the docks looked like many they had seen before, they were larger and wider than most of the ports they'd set foot in in North Blue. It was an indication that the island saw frequent traffic. Strange perhaps for an island on the Grand Line? Shachi wasn't entirely sure. He wasn't familiar as much of it as some might think.

There was an empty slot at the main docks on the left beside a large galleon covered in forest green paint and a sail that was marked as if it belonged to some sort of deep sea fishing crew. That is if the presence of various fishing gear on board and the large stylized fish on the sail were interpreted correctly.

The small crew carefully settled the yellow submarine into the spot and then set about securing the gang plank so that Law could talk to the man in the maroon Gatsby that was quickly approaching the pole and plank walkway between the two ships. He was a tall thin fellow with bushy brown hair and a stern expression. The circles under his eyes gave his face the feel of a basset hound, and aged him considerably, though Shachi's best guess was that the fellow was in his forties. It was with an air of determination that Law handed Bepo his nodachi and then motioned for the Bear-mink, Penguin, and Shachi to follow him down to the dock.

"The rest of you stay aboard for now," Law ordered. "Once we know more about this island we'll know what plans to make." They saulited and went about their work while the chosen three followed their captain with Shachi bringing up the rear.

The man in the maroon hat was apparently not there to speak with them. In fact at Law's hail he brushed rudely by with an off-hand, "The dock master is coming up over there," and kept going after jabbing a thumb over his shoulder. Law frowned before turning, but Shachi kept watch long enough to see that the man was bent on investigating some chipped green paint on the side of the neighboring ship. He seemed absorbed in the task and no threat to them so Shachi let it be. He turned to follow the others forward to where Law was greeting a wheezing, dumpy man with a pair of bifocals.

His name was Ogden Rob, and from what Shachi could hear he was explaining in a very strained voice that for a couple thousand extra beri on top of the standard dock rental he could keep their names off the port's logs and make sure the marines didn't arrive because of their presence. Excepting of course if they went on a rampage in town or something of that nature. Law looked back and them and Shachi added his nod of approval to Bepo's grunt and Penguin's, "Sounds good, Captain."

"Welcome to Bakerville, Captain Smith," Mr. Ogden grinned at them with a pause to catch his breath, and Shachi was reminded of a miser counting his money as Law handed over the required sum. "Laws and regulations here are pretty reasonable. Behave like gentlemen, don't cause fights, and pay any bills before you leave the establishment to which they are owed. You'll find most of what you'll be wanting, or most of what most sailors want, along the main drag. Hotels, hot baths, taverns, eating establishments, shops, and so on. We do ask that you stay out of the residential areas unless invited by a resident." He broke off to cough into a rather dingy looking handkerchief.

"Sounds reasonable," Law smiled, although it was a bit cold, " Are there any places to eat used to handling large groups all at once? Ones that won't mind a bit of a party?" Shachi could see Penguin grinning a little as it because clear their captain not only remembered, but fully intended to keep the promise of a proper birthday celebration.

Ogden Rob smiled and then wheezed into the handkerchief again. "The Black Crane is the one I would recommend. It's a large tavern on main and fifth. If you send someone ahead to make a reservation you can usually insure a table is saved, sometimes the back room if you have enough people… of course that costs more." he grinned a bit wider. "For a fee I can make the reservation for you."

"I'll consider it," Law answered. Shachi thought it was a wise move not to risk upsetting this man who was providing information so freely. "And I bet if we bought you a drink you could introduce us to someone with information about what lies ahead down the Grand Line?" Ogden Rob looked extremely pleased at this offer. Shachi couldn't help but nod once more in approval. More and more he was beginning to believe his Captain was more than capable of handling anything that lay ahead. It had been a long time since he had that much faith in someone. He was beginning to remember why he had trusted Law so much when they were boys. True, they had their differences, but Shachi was beginning to think that serving under Law would be a great deal different that those he had served under in the marines.

-:-:-:-:-:-

Although the Heart Pirates were settling in to their place on the dock quite nicely, the city of Bakerville on the whole took no notice of them. That is other than those Ogden Rob had to report to. In fact any that knew them man made a note of any time he made a beeline for the mayoral compound which was located inside the scientific compound build into the island's center mountain. In fact those located in the front office could see him from the large picture windows that overlooked the main gate as he checked in. One of them, a lean built man on the tall side of average let out an audible groan as he leaned against the secretary's desk. Her dark eyes narrowed as she frowned. No doubt because a moment ago he had been attempting to flirt, rather successfully, and was now no longer paying attention.

"Clione?" she questioned adjusting her dark hair back into it's perfect bob. Clione had always thought she was gorgeous. He on the other hand was barely average. Clione knew he had something of a large nose, wide eyes and sandy hair. He had been told on more than one occasion that his smile was his best feature which he supposed was a good thing since he did like to smile, but his somewhat overly large ears ruined the effect. That was why he always, always kept them covered. Today it was with a set of black and red headphones that hooked into his security headset.

"Sorry, Clara. Ogden Rob is about to walk in, and if I've got my timing right Dr. Selden's meeting with the mayor has just ended."

Her eyes widened in understanding and she immediately buzzed the guard station to see if they could cause a delay. Unfortunately it was already too late. The guards had already buzzed Ogdan through.

Contrary to popular opinion the man couldn't keep any sensitive information to himself. He was a security breach waiting to happen. And it didn't matter if he was bringing information or leaving with it. That was why Clione set his eyes on the man as soon as he entered the lobby of the Mayor's office. Especially as Dr. Selden entered the same room from the hall door.

Dr. Selden was just saying goodbye to Clione and thanking Clara for her help when Odgen brushed rudely passed on his way in. The wheezing man hadn't even gone out of his way to give the thinner man room to walk by. The two men looked at each other with what Clione would call calculating glares, but with the office's head of security right there neither dared speak a word. It was fortunate. Clione had rather been hoping to have something of a quiet day.

The mountain the compound had been built into took up the majority of the island of Londinium with only a few flat places around the outermost edge. It was on one of these Bakerville had been built. Once an active volcano, the research facility had been created in order to monitor and warn the island of any danger. Everything was quiet now. It had been 15 years since any resident had cause to worry, but just to be safe a team of scientists still monitored everything closely. The island government had moved in some ten years prior when a storm had destroyed Bakerville, and they had used the research station to shelter the citizens. Once the town had been repaired non government personnel had returned to their lives and buildings, but the mayor at the time had thought it easier just to stay put. Their offices had been there ever since.

Clione had been a bit skeptical as to how things could work that way when he first heard the story, but observation and personal experience had made a believer out of him. Now he was the Mayor's head of security and that meant everything from ensuring the camera systems remained operational, to hiring personal, to making sure Ogden Rob didn't start a fight in the main lobby.

Clione turned as Selden, a tall blond haired man, went on his way, and watched as Ogden moved the the service desk. There was something extra snively about the man today, if that were possible. A moment on the phone and Clara nodded and set the receiver down.

"Clione -san, would you escort Ogden-san up to the mayor's office? There's time to see him now." Apparently she didn't trust him either. Usually Clara sent those she did straight through alone. Those she didn't she sent Clione or one of the other security personnel with. Clione couldn't help but offer her a reassuring smile as he passed and held the door for Ogden Rob. He supposed it was a good sign, that she trusted him. They had been flirting with each other for six months after all.

Ogden was considerably less than pleased as Clione escorted him back to the lift, up to the third floor, and then down a long hall. He knew Clione's presence was meant as a guard, not an escort and he was not happy about it. They continued down a long irrily lit corridor painted an odd olive green, arriving at a closed heavy duty door where Clione knocked in a somewhat recognisable pattern. The moment an answer was given he swung it open, ignoring the creak, and motioned for Ogden to precede him into the room.

"Good morning gentlemen," the mayor grunted. He was a rather thickset man with dark shaggy hair, beetle black eyes, and full but well maintained beard. "Clione-san did Dr. Selden get the information for his rooms?"

"I believe so. When he left he was headed to the hotel to collect his things and then he'll return here to settle in."

"Good! I did think that would be more convenient for everyone involved. He'll be closer to his research lab, and we do have some very comfortable rooms for the science staff to stay in. I'm glad we finally convinced him to come here. That hotel can't have been comfortable, or the commute every morning. So early too."

Clione only nodded and moved to close the door behind him as he left, but not fast enough to avoid overhearing Ogden's next sentence.

"I wanted to let you know, Sir. There's a ship of pirates in port. We can proceed with the plan and pin it on them if something goes wrong."

Well that was odd, Clione thought as the door clicked shut and he returned to his post. Very odd. What was that sniveling weasel up to now?

-:-:-:-:-:-

Penguin was having a fantastic time wandering around Bakerville with Shachi. He didn't think they'd ever had a full blown party with the whole crew and that sounded like what they had permission to plan. Not that the fish grills weren't party like, but someone had always had to stay on guard enough to take care of the sub. Now that they were docked in town they could take their time, enjoy plenty of food and drink, and feel free to sing or tell stories or whatever got into their heads.

Penguin was also hoping for food they didn't normally get on the submarine. True it had a state of the art kitchen and refrigeration system, but without knowing where the next port would always be or if other events would delay arrival times, grocery trips seemed to focus more on things that could stretch in a pinch. Rice, dried beans, preserved food. Fresh veggies were acquired for the first week, but after that things tended to go bad. Although the crew on the whole was beginning to learn what things they could freeze. Mostly through experimentation and error. Potatoes for example did not do well unless they were shredded first. Meat froze easily, but with everything considered it was often easier just to use the fish they caught and save the frozen protein for when fishing conditions were poor.

"You know what I really want," Penguin expressed to Shachi as they walked to the tavern the odd little man at the port had mention, "A big juicy burger with cheddar cheese, bacon, and the works."

Shachi hummed in approval. "With a side of fries and a frothy beer to go with… I don't think the captain will mind if we score lunch while we're out. He kinda hinted that he expected us to. What do you want for dinner? It's your Birthday celebration after all."

"Lets see what's on the menu? I can think of half a dozen things that sound good right now."

"Sounds like a plan to me. Where were we headed again? Black Crane?"

"I think that's it there?" Penguin pointed. Ahead of them was a wide two story building constructed of what seemed to be amber colored logs with black trimwork. From the peak above the second story hung a large wooden sign featuring a dark painted crane, and above the door was clear lettering. It looked like a reputable place with decent paying clientele, but the moment they stepped inside they were reassured that it was, in fact, a tavern.

The floor was covered in sawdust and peanut shells, there were a number of patrons at the bar sipping perfectly colored ale. Several tables were claimed with the diners enjoying what looked like typical grill and bar food. Burgers, ribs, wings, fried appetizers, sandwiches, nachos, Penguin was almost drooling with anticipation even the little green den-den in his pocket perked up. Penguin had originally tried to take the little yellow one but it had stubbornly refused to leave Law.

Shachi pulled out two stools at the bar and Penguin lifted two menus from the stack at the end of the counter. The menu offerings for lunch and dinner were the same and in addition to what they had seen the patrons eating had included several pasta choices and about two or three soups and salads. That was good. There should be choices for everyone then.

Five minutes later the two men had not only ordered an early lunch consisting of juicy burgers and fries, but reserved a large table for the crew's usual dinner time and informed the captain who in turn dictated a grocery list back. Once the shopping was out of the way they could enjoy themselves during their time on this island, assuming of course nothing went wrong. Shachi seemed a bit skeptical on that part. Of course, Penguin mused, Shachi always seemed to expect something to go wrong.

The food was delicious. The tavern owner, a dumpy woman with red hair and kind eyes, had been the perfect hostess. And after learning that they were planning to hold a birthday celebration there, had informed them that if they wanted to bring in a cake or something from one of the local bakeries, that it would be perfectly all right with her. Penguin dutifully added that to their shopping list. To him the day was getting better and better.

Bills paid they headed out to hunt down what they needed for a sub. The list consisted of mostly fresh vegetables, a few ship parts Shachi was always looking for just to have on hand, a dessert of some sort, and a reputable doctor who might be willing to sell Law some basic medical supplies. Law had stated that he expected to have to talk to anyone they found himself, but it would be good to know where to go from the start if possible. They also were to look for any information that would be useful to know either for this island, or further down that Grand Line. Although the last was more likely to be found on the docks from those who actually sailed.

The shoppes they explored were full of everything from food or clothing to musical instruments and history books. One very promising shop was devoted to the sale of navigation equipment. Most of what was on the submarine was superior to the store's offerings except for one little thing.

"Oh the eternal pose!" the young dark skinned man with beaded dreadlocks explained when he saw Shachi zero in on one. "It's like a log pose but it's set permanently to this island. No matter where you are or how far you travel you will always be able to find your way back here again. My grandfather is a master craftsman, he's teaching me. We made the one we sent with my sister when she left with the finch gang pirates a few months ago." the teen looked so proud

Suddenly it made sense how a port could be such a bustling trade destination in the middle of the Grand Line. These ships' captains must have several enteral poses, one for each point of their route, and go regularly between them.

"Are they all the same degree of reliability no matter the type?" Shachi asked leaning in to inspect a rather plain looking one,

"Of course!" the boy looked almost offended, "Price is determined by size and the material of the outer casing, other than that the crafting process is identical. Your least expensive model will be this here, standard size in a very basic peg and groove wood holder."

"We should discuss purchasing one with the captain," Shachi murmured to Penguin, "if we ever got lost we've have a safe point to return to."

"For that matter we could collect one for each island…" Penguin started but the youth interrupted.

"Not every island will have one available. It depends on the size of the island, the nature of their government, and the availability of their ports… as well as if they have a capable craftsman." Penguin couldn't help but notice the boy seemed to be preening. "Kingdoms that are recognised by the world government should have eternal poses though they may not be available for sale. The marines need to get there quickly if something happens." Penguin and Shachi both nodded knowingly. "Other islands have made their business off catering to sailors. Here for example, or Jaya Island. Places like that should have eternal pose shops you can collect from. Some may have poses for other islands than their own if the crafting families have an arrangement."

He begane rifling under the counter almost hurriedly, "here's a list of all the poses we can offer and their price if you want to consider the purchase oh and um…" suddenly he seemed a bit nervous. "My sister sailed on from here on the same route you'll have to take, If… if you happen to catch up to her at any point will you teller her Simon said hello? And give her this den-den number? Grandpa and I finally saved up enough for a long distance one.

Penguin smiled as he took the flier with the number scrawled on top and tucked it into his pocket as Shachi shook the boy's hand before heading toward the door.

By the time they arrived back at the ship both men were laden down with the various items they had been able to acquire as well as scraps of paper with things they thought the crew might be interested in, and instructions for the doctor Law would need to talk to about acquiring those medical supplies. They had of course found a bakery and ordered a dessert assortment tray so that Penguin could have cake and the captain something he didn't consider to be bread, with the the promise that they would pick it up on time before dinner. It was with hearts full of excitement and anticipation that the whole crew locked up the sub and headed out for a night full of partying that evening.

And party they did. Their host was more than happy to see them have a good time, and soon all the men were full of both food and drink. After a chorus of "he's a jolly good fellow" and many "happy 26th Birthdays" they finally broke into the desserts. That was quickly followed by more food and drink, and somehow the entire bar soon ended up celebrating with them.

Verne and Albert made quick friends with a lean blond haired man who seemed to be a scientist of some sort. He said his name was Dr. Selden Andrew and being quite up to date on the latest gadgets the three of them quickly had their heads buried in a round of pints discussing the various aspects of the transponder snail communications relay, the best way to train snails, and various methods of reproducing that effect artificially to improve existing communications networks on board ships. It turned out there were a number of minerals available in the volcanic soil of the island which the locals had been known to mine in previous years. The Dr. had been sent by the world government to check out some of the research projects the mayor had going and to report back. The government was hoping to learn if these minerals still held scientific value for more modern technology. He was absolutely thrilled with the opportunity and the drunker he got the more specifics he let slip. None of it made sense to Penguin, but Verne and Albert were fascinated.

Penguin's attention was quickly diverted by a barmaid recounting to Law and Bepo something about a conflict she'd heard was happening on the island ahead of them and he got so engrossed in the sound of her voice that he almost didn't notice when Verne cut Dr Selden off from the bar and announced to the captain that he was going to make sure the very inebriated man made it home all right. It wasn't long before everyone soon forgot about the two and went back to their own festivities. Although they did notice when Verne returned saying that the guy seemed to be staying in the government loggings under the mountain, and that he'd had to drop him with the guard at the front gate.

"Seemed like a decent fellow." Verne continued, "Average build, blocky jaw, but friendly smile. They seemed to know each other although Selden-san is so drunk right now he thought he knew a lampost on the way over. I think it'll be fine though."

"It'll be fine, fine," Pops jumped in to reassure his son, his large mustache quivering under rosy cheeks. The man did not hold liquor as well as the rest of them, in fact that particular member of the Heart Pirates was not supposed to be drinking like that at all. It was a wonder nobody had noticed before. Verne was quick to jump on it.

"Fine... Da, why are you drinking? Why did the rest of you let him! Your heart!"

"My heart? Pha - hic - I'm sailing with the best doctor I could have!" He raised his glass to Law who next to Verne was the most sober of the lot. The rest of the crew followed suit.

"To Captain Law!"

Penguin grinned as he toasted. Following Law, joining his crew, was beginning to look like the best choice he'd made in a long time. True it wasn't where he'd thought his life would end up if you'd asked him at this point last year, but the change had been worth it. He was even looking forward to spending future birthdays in this manner.

-:-:-:-:-:-

Clione was not having a good night. It seemed like it was one thing going wrong after another lately. Odd whisperings of the afternoon aside he was now working a late shift because part of the security network had gone down. That meant cancelling a dinner with Clara which meant she was sore with him and that had not helped his mood either. He was going to have to come up with some grand romantic gesture to make this up because it was now the third date this month he'd had to reschedule. He wasn't too pleased with the situation either himself.

He was in the middle of rechecking the feed to one of the monitors when he noticed something rather odd. Dr. Selden was returning very drunk on the arm of a young blond man with a bandana around his head. The youth in question was wearing a blank tank top and a boulier suit with the arms tied around his waist like a belt. And very clearly on one sleeve was the Heart Pirate jolly roger. That wasn't the odd thing though, Selden often needed help home. He was a very social drinker. It had been one of the first things they'd learned about the man when he came to the island.

The odd thing was the guard at the front door that the pirate turned him over too. That was not one of Clione's men.

"I didn't authorise any new hires…" Clione muttered to himself as he sent a signal to the surveillance Denden to zoom in. Unfortunately right at that moment there seemed to be another glitch. Everything went to static. Not even a hint of a picture was available. Just white noise.

Clione cursed and threw down his head set. Seemed the only thing to do was head over in person. Unfortunately that was three floors and several corridors away. At first he took his time but the more he walked the more he began to wonder if something bigger wasn't going on. The glitches, and odd staff member, the whispers he'd heard… In minutes he was running, feet pounding on tile, racing for Dr. Selden's room.

What he saw when he got there made him cry out. Back peddling fast he fumbled for his headset before realising he'd dropped it, and instead raced for the nearest panic button.

-:-:-:-:-:-

It was very early in the morning when the Heart Pirates dragged themselves back to the ship. Still well before dawn, before twilight even, but technically morning. Law was just sober enough to take a proper count and make sure everyone was there. With the exception of Verne taking the time needed to see the doctor got home, everyone had spent the entire time at the Black Crane thoroughly enjoying themselves. Not the wildest party he'd ever had as a pirate, but definitely one of the more enjoyable ones. Perhaps they should make this birthday thing a regular event. There was something to be said for good food, good drink, and good company.

Knowing he could expect to cure several headaches in the morning Law stumbled into the captain's quarters of the Acanthuridae and barely remembered to take off his shoes before falling face first into the bed. It took less than five minutes for him to fall asleep.

His dreams were full of shadowy jumbles, past events and faces he should know, a glint off elongated sunglasses and a pink feather boa, that haunting laugh… he tossed and turned mumbling the words "I haven't forgotten" over and over. Sometime around six in the morning he woke with a start thinking it was the dream, the reminders of his plan to bring down Doflamingo, but the sound of boots tramping up the gangplank quickly made him aware that something else was going on. It was the sounds of footfall that had interrupted his sleep.

A shout from the deck below brought him to his feet and out the door and he could see his crew coming sleepily out the mess hall doors onto the deck below as the shouting continued. Some of them were clearly hung over. No one was in any condition to fight the troop of armed men who had stomped their way up the gangplank. None of those men were marines, fortunately, rather they were dressed in the uniform of the local law enforcement. At their center stood the docmaster, Ogden Rob, and a rather chubby man with a well combed dark beard and a metal of office around his neck.

The lead of the law enforcement unit, a well build man with silver shoulder patches on his uniform jacket, stepped forward and Law leaned over the railing to hear him better. For a moment he considered jumping over the railing to get down there the fast way, but that was reckless. As things stood he could hear well enough from here and they hadn't been declared in danger yet. However, it was clear that they were in some sort of trouble just by looking at the situation.

"Which one of you is Verne of the Heart Pirates?" The man projected his voice like a marine drill sergeant.

"I am," the young blond man in the bandana stepped forward. Law was relieved to note that Verne at least looked relatively unaffected by last night's party.

"Verne, you are here by placed under arrest by the authority of the peacekeepers of Bakerville for the murder of Dr. Selden Andrew ."