The Falling Star

by oblivon2991

A falling star fell from the sky and hit an enormous hole into the Marines Headquarter in Marineford. After the investigation, the leadership found the strangest thing in their whole life. How will this strange anomaly change the course of the history?

13. Wake Up! Sleeping Beauty

Thank you for reading my fanfic and giving me a chance.

My mother language is not English, so please be patient about the grammatical issues.

I don't own the Overlord(オーバーロードŌbārōdo?) novel or anime series created by Kugane Maruyama.

I don't own the One Piece, anime and manga series illustrated by Oda Eiicsiró.

Please review it I know I will make mistakes what I will intend to correct and try to learn from my mistakes and improve myself.

Thank you!

Now let's continue our little story!

---

A sizable ship swayed gently on the gentle foams of All Blue. Seeing it, you may ask — what part of the world the vessel sailed?

The North Blue?

The South Blue?

The East Blue?

The West Blue?

Or even, the ship in the scene managed to reach the Grand Line and heading towards the New World? The forbidden land where the legendary island "Raftel" had been located? The mysterious island only the deceased — more like executed — pirate king, Gol D. Roger knows the location?

For first, it was unknown where the sizable ship sailed, as all around the ocean was empty, the wind barely bellowed. Only the time to time appearing Sea Kings signed there was indeed life around. Even under such deserted circumstances. Their massive bodies bubbled up under the surface just to disappear once more amidst the sea of foams. Disturbing the waters with their vast bodies as they danced above the liquid death that was their home, jumping up then twisting themselves stylishly.

Expecting to catch a few birds in their wake — as the flying rats were a delicacy for the monstrous creatures. Still, it was not the main meal they expected to catch today.

Strangely, until now — despite the seemingly vulnerable state of the wobbling ship — the creatures left it, and its crew well alone. Maybe it was because of the sheer size of the boat — as the vessel were sizable enough. But thinking about it, something else also played for the lack of attack from the part of the Sea Kings.

After the craft, a small vessel, a small boat had been towed. Only fixed by a thin rope.

The small vessel quivered as the bigger ship fouled the waters before it. This little boat inhabited by only one person, or more like an obese man with a round body eating a rack of meat, playing with the trigger of his flintlock. His eyes covered by shades, hiding where he is looking at the moment. His smile was so broad; it almost reached his ears – showing a toothy grin. His green t-shirt — with vertical white stripes — wrinkled as he raised the sizable meat to his mouth to bite.

As you may surmise, he was Lucky Roo. The crew member of the Red-Haired pirates.

You may ask — what he is doing dragged after the "Red Force"? — The flagship of the Yonko, Red-Haired Shanks.

Don't worry; you will get your answer soon enough.

"Hey! Roo! How is the fishing going on? The people start to get hungry." shouted Yasopp, leaning against the backside of the ship with a bored expression, cleaning his gun with great care.

As the sniper of the group, he had to make sure his tools always ready to work, who knows who will attack them in the next moment.

Biting his meat once more, the round man raised his brow. "!"

He always liked Yasopp; he was a good friend and the best sniper he knew in all around the world. There was only one problem with him. He was damn impatient.

"Hmm… Be patient, Ysaopp. I anticipate a great meal coming in our way."

"Hmm… You and your divination…" Yasopp snorted amused, standing up and checking the harpoon launchers fixed on the deck.

They were sturdy, able to stop even a sea king, several good luck charms hanging from their backside. The crew was not superstitious of course, but Yasopp always said: "it was better to be careful than dealing with the consequences later."

"Are you sure you don't need help?" He knows it, of course, simple Sea Kings were not a threat for them, but he asked anyway because of the reasons mentioned above.

"Yeah… just leave it to me…" murmured confidently Roo, his always vigilant smile stretching even wider as he pulled back the cock of his gun.

The sniper of the group just snorted, sitting back in his previous position and continued to clean his guns. If his friends don't need help, who is he to contradict his comrade's wishes?

Anyway, he was well aware, the only reason Roo undertook the role of the bait was the fact; usually, when they distribute the parts of the captured prey, the "bait" is the one who decides how to distribute the food and which part of it they will keep. It was always like this since Shanks recruited them. It cannot be helped; the red-haired man was not like other pirates out there. No… He simply must have to be that damn generous with his men!

Snickering as he took his gun apart — using his haki — he felt a great disturbance gathering under the surface. "Two… No three…" he smiled. "Well then, Roo. It is your turn. Show us how lucky you are."

Standing up just in the right moment, Roo pointed his gun towards the three — huge — appeared creature. One was like a snake with sturdy black scales. The second was like a big clownfish with beak and red fur. The third was like a big grinning fish with a huge mouth; its scales coloured yellow.

Each of their sizes reached at least the one kilometre, despite this, Roo did not falter, and his grin always remained. "Hmmm… Sorry guys, we need only one of you." Cocking his gun, he aimed the harpoon launcher without looking.

It was out his sheer luck or skill, but Roo managed to hit the trigger making the launcher spin, hit the second launcher, then the ricocheted harpoons hit the smallest Sea King, impaling it through its face.

Yasopp knew it is his time. Standing up, with two well-aimed shots he managed to chase away the two remained — flabbergasted — creatures.

"So…"

"So…" Roo watched his friend with a big glee as the two creatures retreated amidst the foams. "The lunch is served."

"Hnnh… You miscalculated."

"It was expected."

The two friends burst out in laughter, then Yasopp waved to Roo. "Come on! Help me fix that beast on the side of the ship."

Roo nodded, grabbing the freshly laid out rope ladder. With that, the two friends started to fix the dark-scaled sea king on the side of the ship. The vessel wobbled heavily as it dragged the sizable beast after itself.

…

Looking in the direction of his crewmates — the half-armed — crimson head pirate just smiled sadly. Leaning against his sword, the weapon called Gryphon.

It was an exquisite sword, a weapon that most likely belongs to one of the twelve supreme grades swords. Although, even before his crew, the true grade of his sword was unknown. He rather kept this little secret for himself.

Gryphon was a longer than average sabre with a long green hilt and a circular beige guard, as well as an extensive and thin guard around the hilt. Shanks kept it in a blue sheath on his right hip, even though he wields it with his right arm. But just now, he leaned on it. Sitting on a small chair, mused on the happenings of the past days.

Staring one exact place, a few petals of flower still stick on the surface of the deck. "So it comes to this… ah… old man?" He muttered closing his eyes and shaking his head, remembering Whitebeard's funeral one day ago.

…

In the coffin, a sizable man settled. His body badly damaged. Half of his face missing, his majestic moustache lost its proud shine. His face clenched in a dead grimace. Even so, his back spotless, showing no scar.

Edward Newgate, now, laying, buried in the same island where he was born, where his adventure started as the legendary pirate called: Whitebeard.

He deserved the best spot on the island. Thus, his body had been buried on a lookout where the best view opened to the sea, signifying his dream of freedom, the idea of a family.

Around the adorned burial ground, a big crowd gathered, giving their respect to the esteemed leader. Marco, Vista, Jozu, and many more — every surviving division commander paid their respect.

It was like this, all of them barely able to hold their tears, heavily brushing their eyes from the continually flowing moisture. "Pops…" "I can't believe it…"

Ace was also present, heavily bandaged, heavily clenching his fist. Like everyone else, he as well was unable able to hold his tears. "Pops, you idiot…" he muttered, again and again, cannot seethe his sadness bubbling up in his heart.

Fortunately or unfortunately — It did not matter — He just woke up recently from the coma Blackbeard's blank ranged shoot pushed him. His wounds were grievous, even now the doctor of the Whitebeard pirates ordered him not to strain himself, or his freshly stitched wounds will open once more. Not as the parties around Whitebeard's resting place would be in the better state.

All of them lost something. All of them profoundly injured, bandaged. But the biggest hole gaped not in their body, but in their heart.

…

Opening his eyes, Shanks continued to stare at the exact spot where his ship carried Whitebeard to his last journey, to his resting place.

"Even in his death, he did not fall. His figure is taking down enemies while covered in wounds…" he murmured sadly.

Under Shanks' eyes, several dark circles present, signing his lack of proper sleep in the recent days. The scar adorned his face even more visible thanks to the salty air bellowed around the ship.

Lowering his head, he can't believe it come to this. "Damn, bastard Teach…" like an iron grip, his hand clenched around his sword, making it crack a few times. "Once I get the chance. I will deal with you."

He was well aware. In the current situation, he can't do more. He had people to protect. Killing Teach on the scene would end up worsening the situation, incite even more fight. There was enough dead on the ground that day. It may provoke an even bigger war — as now — Blackbeard had the power of Gura Gura no Mi. He was dangerous enough as it is, soon, he most likely became the most dangerous man in the world. With his abnormal body and his weird idea of piracy, it was a real threat.

After the burial, the battered fleet dispersed, leaving the Red Force to continue its solitude travel through the endless blues.

You may ask, why Newgate's body had been transported in the Red Force instead of his own ships? Well, there were a few good reasons behind that.

First, the previously grand Whitebeard Fleet — in its current state — was heavily battered. It was still grand in some way, but it lost its previous overwhelming numbers and might. For the burial, only around twenty beaten vessels escorted the Red Force to its final destination. The place where Whitebeard born.

Secondly, being the ruinous state of the fleet and its crew. It was safer to guard his corpse in Shank's ship. As a Yonko, he had the authority and power to repel any invader come in his way. No matter the circumstances or the enemy he had to face.

Shanks was a peaceful man; adoring parties, drinking, friendship and freedom above all else, but you don't want to become his enemy; you would not like what happens to you.

Sengoku might keep his promise for a safe passage for the pirates, due to his respect for Shanks and Whitebeard. But the old man had many enemies amongst many parties; amongst them, it would be an excellent trophy for either Kaido or Big Mom to take Edward's corpse as a mock reward. No one wanted that, and Edward's former crew would die first before they let their "Father's" corpse snatched away.

What will happen with the grave after they left? Shanks had no idea, the only thing he knows is — he did what he had to, and he did his part.

Angel still slept in the infirmary of the ship. The doctor confirmed, she will be fine, although, her stomach and most of her intensities are gone. She could survive like that, although, for the remainder of her life she needs medical help.

However, the good doctor also discovered a few interesting things under his investigation. Such as multiple redundant organs. Multiple hearts, lungs, a redundant nervous system that coursed through her whole body. Her blood first seemed normal, but investigating it further it was pitch black emitting gold radiation, massively corrosive. The doctor tried to analyse it, but without proper equipment, he did not manage to get any satisfactory result. It was like; she was not even human.

Shanks as well his crew saw a few interesting things under their travels, and they could hardly be surprised anymore.

People splitting the sky with their sheer will — transforming into animals — destroying whole mountains with a few hits or strikes. — Dematerializing then re, immune to physical damage — Fishes kilometre in size trying to eat them. And he could list such a weird phenomenon to all day long.

But Angel is something else… something, unnatural. Like she evolved, completely Differently. A being not from this world.

Even the armament haki imbued needly was hardly able to penetrate her veins. It was just… strange.

Pondering all of this, Shanks turned his gaze towards the horizon, and he could only smile.

It does not matter anyway. His crew was always like that; they were always a bunch of weirdos.

Back then when he was a simple cabin boy in Roger ship.

Under his years — when he started his new crew.

And then, as he ascended as one of the four Yonko.

Weird people move the world. It was always like that; it will always be like that. And he only hoped it would remain that way.

"Is the old man was your friend?" A feminine voice called him out on his side. And he could only smile. She should rest now, recovering.

Shanks just glanced at her, with a smile and raised a brow.

It was strange, but until she stepped on his side, he did not even felt her presence. It was either due to his lack of concentration, or she was just that good. One thing was sure, several peeking eyes already recognised as they started to converse, but neither of them approached them due to the personal nature of the conversation.

"Hmm… We may not always agree on everything. But the old man knew how to drink. I had to give him that."

"I see… my condolences." Angel bowed her head, her long white hair fluttering shadowing her dual coloured eyes. Her long coat billowed by the air. The bandages around her stomach freshly changed, spotless, tightly fixed not to let her blood sprout once again.

"Aren't you supposed to be in bed? I may assume Pierre-san may not grin like a mad child once he gets to know about your disappearance."

"That may be…" she beamed a mischievous smile. "But I was always like that, simply restless. You can blow my head off, you can gut me, but I will rise again and again… that's how I am. Just see my current state for example. Nothing can keep me down."

"Yeah… almost literally…" her eyes grazed sly above Shanks' shoulder, wondering about what kind of reaction her little act evoked from others.

"…"

True, she was not close to her death. On no! In truth, she was far from it. She could have easily glassed Marineford and everyone in it if she had wanted it, but she decided against it. And even if she had died, with her instant resurrection ring — that was hidden by a smart enchantment — she could have brought back herself right away. With full health and resource pool. Three times without cost — after that — she needed to wait the cooldown period and conduct a specific ritual to reactivate the effect. It was quite costly. Thus she rather avoided using it.

Still, her resistance might be plentiful — as her main specialisation was an Esper, psychic based tank and damage dealer. Her swordsmanship was only second hand compared to her psychic abilities — but was strengthened by them.

That might be the case, but because of her race's drawback — and her passive resistances turned off — nothing protected her from the liquid magma that hit a hole in her stomach.

As mentioned above, her race had a huge drawback. That might not mean much in the game, and she learned how to use it to her advantage under the years. It was quite an annoyance when the game turned to reality. The passive ability called [Pain Mastery IV].

That meant she felt every pain effect multiplied, and every debuff afflicted her a double amount. In return, every positive impact as well affected her the same way. "Weights and counterweights", as the saying goes. But being her special job classes, she could use this drawback in her own way, benefit even the double amount of damage she received.

There were always gaps in the system.

Because of the special nature of her body, her nerves can't be burned to senseless from the heat Sakazuki's magma represented — and with her resistances off — the pain was boggling after feeling it not for such a long time.

She endured somehow for a while, but after letting herself fall, she truly lost her consciousness, she did not expect to sleep that much. It must be days she was out. The worst thing was her cluelessness of the situation.

It was careless of her playing such a dangerous game. Yet, it brought back the good old days when she was rookie. It gave back the feeling — the thrill of the unknown. And she loved it! Only trusting your comrades to pull you out from the tight situation, now, that was the real excitement.

Although the last parts of the events were quite blurry, it was like she lost the control over her body. Like someone else controlled her like a puppet.

"Like back then…" Squinting her eyes, she suspected who was behind that blurry vision envisioned before her in the last part. "I need to be careful not to lose the control accidentally, or this world might be good as a slave ground."

"…"

Shanks chuckled for a moment, then glanced on the thick bandage covered her stomach, giving a worried look. "Are you all right? Last time I asked the doctor, he said you need to rest at least a month before you can stand on your feet."

"Hmm… You know…" she flashed a toothy grin. "Doctors, always worrying about small things. Strong coffee and a good drink are all I need."

Shanks beamed warm-hearted, staring at the ground for a moment. "Yeah, the "Healing Water" all we need." He referred to alcoholic drinks as "Healing water" — As it not only heal the body but the soul itself, helped them to leave their sorrow behind.

"You really made us worried. Young lasses like you should not pull pranks like that."

"Sorry about that. It may not happen again. At least in the coming week."

"Hmmm… Let's hope…" Shank's smirk never faltered as his eye nailed at her. "Or I might have to start to open an account on your name. You know, saving you in the middle of a war zone is a costly game. And I, and my crew needs funds for our Shake, for the time being, we running quite low."

"Oh…! Such a horrible situation, my condolences. Albeit, isn't it dangerous to sail in such a drunken state?"

"Isn't it dangerous to drinking that much coffee?" Shanks shoot back with glee.

"Ah! Shanks!" her head shot back, pointing at him like a diva. "Apologies in an instant! Such treason! The coffee gods will strike down you!"

"Dahahahaha! In that case, the drunken drowned god will avenge me. Your "Coffe God" and his battle will be legendary!"

"I drink on that." she nodded, her expression softened.

"We both." he approved the statement and recovered a flask under his coat, drinking some. Knowing Angel state of health, he rather not offered her drink now.

"So, how long I was out? Where are we?"

"I thought you would never ask."

"…" she just narrowed her brows. "Why?"

"A little more than a week, that's how long you were out. It is for a few hours we parted with Edward's fleet. At least, that what was remained from the Alliance."

"Edward?"

"Edward Newgate, Aka Whitebeard. You know, the old man. Unfortunately, he did not make it."

"Oh! My condolences once again."

"Yeah…" Shanks exhaled the salty air of the sea, glancing in the direction of the slowly setting sun. "He was a good man. After Roger, the bravest man I knew." he nodded. "Currently we are in the New World. Somewhere, don't ask as I am not a navigator…" he spat sarcastically. Of course, as a veteran pirate and the captain of the crew he knew the rough location, but it was not important now.

"New World…?" Angel rolled the world on her tongue.

She remembered she had read about it in the books as she dived through the library. Also, she found a few references about it in the secret governmental archives she broke in. But she found no considerable information about it. Only it was freaking dangerous. (According to the measurement of the people of this world.) "The second part of the Grand Line, am I right?" she guessed.

"Right…" Shanks obliged.

"Well then…" Shanks stood up, walking towards the side of the deck, Angel followed him. Watching the peaceful sea for a moment, he needed to ask.

"Care to tell how the hell you ended up in the middle of Marineford? None less staging between a Yonko and the admirals? And of course, that damn Teach?"

"Teach? You mean, that Blackbeard guy?"

"…" Shanks did not answer as he only nodded, his expression turned stern as he stared the foams. He must have really hated that guy judging from the dilatation of his pupils.

"Ummu… I am unlucky?" she plucked her lips clueless.

"Unlucky?" Shanks shrugged amused, then burst out in laughter. "Dahahahaha! Then you are the unluckiest person I ever know."

"Don't tease me! My bad luck pursuing me ever since I born!" Stomping on the desk adorable, she crossed her arms pouting. "I hate you so much…"

"Oi! Oi! Take it easy; it was just a jest!" Shanks patted her head grinning, earning an even intense pout.

Gazing into her double coloured eyes, now she really looked like an adorable child. Not the monster the news painting her.

"So, care to tell me what happened since we parted ways. Of course, only if you want it."

"Hnnn…" she shrugged, raising her chin. "Well, when I arrived on that island. First, they wanted to rob me."

"I assume you did not let that."

"I robbed them."

"Oh… You are so cruel, Angel-chan. I hope you will not rob me. What would the world turn if a beautiful lass like you robs a handsome man like me."

"Oh, Captain? You flirting with me?"

"Well, I had to try, or else someone else might catch you."

"So coy…" she teased him. But in the end, both of them burst in a wild series of laughter.

"Dahahahaha!" "HaHehehehehehe!"

"That was rich…" she wiped her tear, then continued. "Let me continue then."

"I meet an old man in a bar who hired me. Then I was enslaved."

"Oh! Really? What more?"

"Then there was the same Taffy man who tried to buy me once more. So I beat him once more. Then I meet a rubber boy and his crew, and with the old man, we kinda escaped from the scene. Retreated in the hideout of "Pops". I think his name was Rayleigh."

"Oh!" Shanks' eyes widened, brimming, recognising the name. "You mean Silvers Rayleigh?" Hearing the name, many crewmembers turned to their direction, slowing their work to listen to the conversation carefully. Not as until now time to time they did not do so.

"Yeah, that was his name." She snapped her fingers. "Although, first, he introduced himself as an old man, a coating mechanic with a gambling addiction who wanted to rob the slavers who bought him."

"Ah! Like old times. Crafty as ever." Shanks smiled, remembering the first mate of Roger from his younger days.

"So, how much you managed to rob in the end."

Raising her hand, showing two zero with her indexes and thumbs, her mouth pursed. "Zero belli to be exact."

"What!?" his eyes almost popped out, several crewmen chuckled barely audible in the background.

"Look, there were injured people with us. And the Marines was on our neck after we beat those space suited idiots. I mean, maybe I was too rough this time. I kinda broke his aquarium and stole Mr Taffy's dog. He was a good doggy by the way."

"Mr Taffy? Doggy?" Shanks tilted his head confused, though, he suspected who she is speaking about.

"Some kind of Saint something… I don't remember." she waved away the question with an impassive face. "I kinda stole his dog."

Shanks facepalmed, barely able to hold his snicker. "Yo-You hit a World Noble, no less the second time! And stole his dog! That-That's hilarious! Dahahahaha!" His laughter was so harsh; he had to hit his knee multiple times and almost suffocated as he ran out of oxygen. The whole ship bellowed in a wild glee as the news filtered in their ears.

Then his eyes widened as he recognised what she mentioned earlier. "You said," he gulped. "You mentioned a rubber boy. Is his name was Luffy? The black-haired boy with a red vest. Right?"

"Hmmm…" she tilted her head, then nodded. "Yes. With red vest."

"How do you know him?" he asked slow and calculated.

"Hmm…" she looked at Shanks. "Do you know him, Shanks?"

Lowering his head, his red bangs shadowed his eyes. A strange joy settled on his face, grabbing the stump left after he saved Luffy from the maw of the Sea King attacked him.

Shanks felt, Luffy is alive. And despite his current state, he will come out stronger from this loss. Stronger than ever. That boy carried an unbreakable will. The will of "D"!

Shanks suspected. No! He gambled his left arm on it. He will be Roger's successor. Not because of his significant strength, but because that boy carried the most dangerous weapon on the seas. The will of "D". The power to turn enemies to his allies.

"Yes… You can say, he is my protégé."

"Oh! Then it is all clear. This is why he resembles you so much!"

Smirking, she pointed at him; a pointer Shanks could only raise a brow. "What do you mean?"

"He just as laid back as you, asking me to join his crew over and over again under the way."

"Really?" Shanks blinked a few times. "Did you accepted it?"

"Well…" she pulled her mouth and looked sideward. "I don't really have any other choice as he almost literally climbed in my face. Also, don't tell Yasopp… But his son's eyes are quite menacing. He just glared at me. It was like "Join or you die…" stare. Geez. Like a sect leader."

"What!?" Yasopp quipped in the other end of the ship, looking in their direction with the same look Usopp used to use.

Shanks nodded understanding. "I see…" he looked in the far. "I assume then… You will not travel us anymore."

"I never said that…" she smirked.

"What?!"

"You said, Nakama is like a family not by blood, but a choice. Then that means. There can be more than one Nakama, or not?" she raised two of her index happily.

Blinking a few times flabbergasted, a warm glee sneaked on Shanks' face. "You know, Shanks. I had no blood relatives. Not home. Not here. Not anywhere. I am the last of my line. Although, I have many acquaintances back home. But friends, less than I like. "Her sadness radiated from her face, making Shanks heart clench slightly. Albeit, her next act shook him.

"So, I ask you. If only temporarily, for the time would you and your crew be my Nakama?" she turned her attention to him, smiling brightly.

Shanks gaped, his crew grinned around knowing the captain's answer.

In the end, he could only bow his head respectfully. "I, no, we would be honoured."

"That's the spirit! I love it!" with a light swing, Angel jabbed Shanks shoulder playfully.

"Awww… Hey! What's that for!" he yawned with an acted painful expression.

"That's for making me so sentimental. Don't do it. I hate to be sentimental."

Massaging his slightly aching shoulder — in the next moment — several hasty steps approached them behind. "Shanks! Captain! Angel-san is… Oh…" Before them, a man stopped. His appearance of a veteran fighter with two big slashes across his chest. On his nose, a wireframe styled spectacle settled. His clothes consisted of a long red coat, stretchy pants and a half-open shirt that showed his scarred chest. One of his arm metal made. On his hip, a doctor's bag hung, and finally, around his chest, several vials were visibly filled with dubious substances.

"Oi! Angel! Get back to the bed! You are not fit to walk yet! Doctor's orders." commanded the doctor of the ship with a stern expression. The man was in the midst of his forties, a big scar ran across his cheek, and his face mirrored his experience as a field doctor. His face slightly wrinkled envisioning his angry expression.

"Aww! But I am fine! Pierre-san!" she pleaded desperate, trying to affect him with her puppy eye technique.

She knows the doctor, as under her previous acquaintance with the Red-Haired pirates she was introduced to all of them.

The doctor backed for a moment, then, using his sheer will and experience that he accumulated meanwhile he was a student in the Flevance medical academy — where he mostly treated children — the man shrugged off the charming influence of Angel.

"No! You are not fine! I was barely able to patch that big hole on your stomach and the many burns you received from Akainu and the other admirals. You will not mess up my work. You are heavily malnourished and dehydrated. You need an infusion!"

Watching the bandages on Angel's stomach, observing her malnourished state. Pierre remembered his city of origins, Flevance, or the so-called "White City". It was a nice place, until the outbreak.

After that, everything turned shitty as the people started to die faster than a fly in a fly trap. The royal family left the country right away, leaving the citizens to their fate. And the World Government placed the place under complete quarantine. No one in, no one out. After the lockdown, chaos and anarchy started to overcome the city. It was the hell incarnate. With his exception, he only remembered one boy that survived, one young, but the talented boy who most likely died from the infection.

Albeit he survived, he still carried the mark as one of his hand was mechanic, forced to amputate as the infection get it.

After what he experienced, he rather calls himself unlucky.

Angel patted her tummy; she indeed felt herself hungry. "I am indeed hungry. Is something edible around?" She looked around confused.

"You don't even have a stomach now! Don't jest!" stomped the veteran medic furiously.

"Awww! You saying this like my little self would be not even important."

"Grrrr…" Pierre growled angrily, daggering the young girl behind his spectacles, adjusting them by pushing them upward on his nose. "No excuse! To the bed!" he pointed to the cabin of the infirmary.

"Now that just sounded pervert…" she muttered pouting, making Pierre flush immediately.

"To the bed! Stupid child!"

"Shanks! Little help?" She watched the red-haired captain to save her from the desperate situation, but Shanks just smiled.

"I think it would be best to listen Pierre-san, he knows his stuff. Don't worry, I will see you soon enough. Then you can continue that interesting story about how you ended up in Marineford."

"Yes, Pa…"

"Now, now… Don't call me that. I am not that old. By the way, that black strand in your hair." he pointed at it.

"Hmmm… What?"

"That black bang amidst the white ones. It really suits you." He pointed out, teasing her joyfully.

Angel immediately inspected her hair, recognising her white hair now contained a black bang. "Shit… Not again. This is not good." Her rattling teeth almost audible, but she managed to suffocate it with an awkward smile, a playful wink and tongue stretching. "Well, it can't be helped."

"See you later, Angel-chan. I promise."

With that, Pierre grabbed her collar and started to pull her after himself, dragging her leg on the ground. "Waking up and disappearing just like that…"

And of course, she had to endure the lecture of the veteran pirate grumpy attitude, even more — a long examination and the questions came with the bloody audit. "Leaving the bed without permission in such state… Hn…" murmured the doctor leading the way, pulling her leg on the ground.

She just ignored him, waving the crew members who spotted her, in return, they as well hailed with a big smile or a simple, respectful nod.

Scene Change: Wano Country:

There was a country in the New World. The World Government declared it unlawful, barbaric as it was not allied with them.

And being it was banned for either the outsiders to set foot on its very ground, as well to the residents to leave its very land. It is called an isolationist nation with reason. Everyone who violated the taboo was heavily punished. Usually forced to commit "seppuku".

A form of ritual suicide. Or rather, ritual disembowelment to restore honour. If you were lucky, there was someone, a trusted, skilled person who beheaded you fast enough at the moment the ritual finished.

If you were lucky, the blade — the so-called tanto — was sharp enough, so your suffering minimised before your immediate death. If you were lucky, your helper was skilled enough and used a sharp katana to separate your head from your body. If not, long moments of suffering awaited you as your gastrointestinal tract slowly poured out from the hole. If the cut was deep enough, it even reached the descending aorta, the largest artery of the body, ending your life with heavy loss of blood and in the end, exsanguination.

It was a punishment initially reserved only for samurais. But in time, amongst many things, it became an everyday thing those who "lost their honour". People daily base committed seppuku for different reasons. Either forced or willing.

If you wanted to compare the Wano country to something, it would be comparable to the Feudal Japan on Earth. From 1185-1603.

The skill of the warriors guarded of the country — called "samurai" — was without par. Even the Marines dared not cross their path. It was a proud nation, though, the corruption laid behind the scenes were even more profound. As the head of the nation — the Shogun — Kurozumi Orochi allied with no other than the Yonko, Kaido of the Beasts. Because of this, his country was the main base of the Beast Pirates.

…

The courtyard was grand — where the execution took place. Befit to the Shogun of the nation. Around the yard, the alpine garden neatly made with small waterfalls, Japanese cherry trees complementing the view — at least, the trees looked like Cherry blossoms, their real names were unknown.

The women of the country were modest and well-behaved, this was even more true to the ladies of the court. Clothed in beautiful kimonos, using their fans to hide their faces and with it, increase their overall charm, each geisha-like lady radiated the aura of mystery.

The men sat on their heel, watched the ongoing execution with a stern face. As expected, their hair made in chonmage style. For the outsiders, they have all looked alike; only their slightly differently coloured clothes made them look different.

Some of them visibly struggled to hold back their feelings, stretching every muscle to force back the vomit accumulated in their throat. It was not out of their physical disgust towards the act of Seppuku — as they saw it numerous times — since they were kids they get accustomed to the sight. Their disgust came from the feeling of opposition, this unjust justification of the Shogun.

The men and women those were executed at the moment were all the political enemies of the Shogun, all those whose dared to raise voice against him.

Guarded by samurais in heavy armour, the Shogun, Kurozumi Orochi sat on his lavish throne. On his side, below him on the ground several of his right-hand man, and a few of his chosen concubines watched the event, conversed with each other, mostly ignoring the last, contemptuous stares of the executed.

"So, just like that?" The Shogun asked as one of his attendants, ignoring the struggle of the few who just opened their guts with their short blade.

"Yes, my Lord." the middle-aged man on his side bowed his head deep, showing his respect.

Seeing him, Orochi just waved his hand dismissing, reading the parchment in his other hand. It was a report about what happened in the last week all around the world.

Despite being an isolationist country, Wano as well had spies all around the globe, reporting periodically to the Shogun. Thus, he was well aware of what happened in Marineford a little more than a month ago. He was aware the death of Whitebeard. Under such dire circumstances, he needed Kaido's protection more than ever.

Soon, the struggle for the former Whitebeard's territory will arise once again. There was three possible outcome; it is either a new Yonko emerges, the three remaining splits Whitebeard's territories amongst each other, or both at once.

Living in those previously protected lands will soon become a perilous game as the place can easily turn to a war zone. Many people will die.

Orochi was glad his country not allied with the former Edward Newgate, as his power cemented at the moment he allied with Kaido. Until the Yonko is alive and he serves his needs, they are safe.

This is why he allied with Kaido right away, that man has the authority, the strength and the numbers to protect his country from the other three — and with it — the rule of the Shogun over the nation, his control was without question.

If Orochi would have said no to that "Creature's" "generous" offer at the moment he approached him; his country would not have existed anymore. It would have been annihilated right away. Kaido would have been capable of that, alone if he must. No… He cannot be really called a man, his title:

"Kaido of the Beasts"

Well deserved, as he cannot be called a human anymore, considering his sheer strength and robust stature that may even put a giant in shame. He was a force to be recognised.

Glancing the towering stature of his "honoured" guest — the one sitting not far from him — he cannot deny that.

Albeit, something seemed off. His body — that was usually half bare except the baggy pants of grey-green colour, tucked below the knees into simple, blackish boots — was heavily bandaged. On his face, an even fiercer scowl settled. His eyes are almost glowing.

Orochi had no idea what happened. What was the thing that left him in such a state? But even thinking there is something out there that manages to leave the mighty Kaido like that, sent chills down his spine. Unfortunately — seeing his expression and the steam pouring from his nose — he could not muster the courage to ask what happened.

Even imagining what Kaido would do to him and his country was just dreadful.

"So, Kaido-dono. How do you like the execution?" he asked with a big smile, a question Kaido only grunted off before drinking more Sake from his human-sized gourd.

"Oh, I see…" he hummed. "Maybe a few of the ladies will shed your spirit. Just recently, we capture a few outsiders washed on our coasts. Real beauties I may say. Of course, only if you like outsiders."

Turning his head slightly, Kaido just raised his brow, then nodded. In an instant, Orochi clasped his hands, and the servants led the newly captured servants. They were indeed candy for the eye. Of course, each of them adequately prepared, as they appeared before the Shogun.

"Chose for your liking."

Meanwhile, Kaido watched poor, trembling girls. Orochi continued to browse the report, and the new wanted posters Kaido brought with himself.

Orochi was not that interested in piracy, albeit, from time to time he found a few interesting figures amidst the mass of criminals. Figures he either asked Kaido to capture for him — referring it will strengthen their alliance — or send his agents out to capture.

Most of these people were bland, as most of the times only brutish men were featured on the posters. Albeit, now, there was one his eye caught on. "Oh… Look what I found! Such exotic beauty. But if my eyes do not deceive me, she has a little bit of Wano in her. The shape of her face and the cut of her eyes betrayed her! Oh!" his lips pursed satisfied.

"Angel… Dead or Alive. Bounty: 420 000 000." It was Angel's old wanted poster. Not the new as it was not yet released for the public. Smiling with a flustered expression, Orochi showed it to Kaido. "Kaido-dono. Aren't beauties like her belong to this country? Such Cherry blossoms belong to the land where it sprouted. Don't you think?"

Glancing the bounty, Kaido stopped his inspection immediately, growled ferocious red-eyed. "Angel!" he shouted filled with fury, aiming his strike against the wanted poster.

Feeling the impending dread, Orochi immediately jumped away. Only thanks to his training he managed to escape. As in the next moment, Kaido destroyed his throne, splintering it into bits. Then continued to hit the ground, over and over again. "I WILL DESTROY THAT LITTLE SHIT! I WILL TEAR THAT THING APART! NOT EVEN ABLE TO FINISH ME…!"

"Your majesty! Please, calm down! We will get her next time!" Sheepshead tried to calm down the Yonko.

After a few more earth rumbling hits, nothing remained from the throne and the poster. But no weapon was trained against Kaido, as Orochi gave the order right away — to his men — to lower their weapons.

Kaido was a short-tempered, it cannot be helped. Attacking him would do no good as the present party could not harm him no matter what.

Sitting down sobbing, tears poured from Kaido eyes. Taking out his gourd once more, the great pirate started to drink away his sorrow, curse "her" with every breath he can spare. "DAMN YOU! YOU HAVE THE CHANCE TO END IT! YOU SHOULD HAVE FINISHED IT!" Remembering her, he thought, she will be the one who finishes him. She will be the one who ends the endless cycle. But no… she had to mock him, leaving him on the ground injured.

He had to power to fight; he had the power to continue. Yet, strangely, he felt, it is his time. Finally, he could end it. And when he spotted the light at the end of the tunnel, she merely crushed it, sniffed it out, mocking him with her every move.

Clenching his fist, now, he finally realised. Slowly, as her face floated in his mind once more — that mocking grin — his new goal started to surface.

He will get her. He will capture her. He will break her! He will make her his bitch! He will destroy everything she loved and will love! Kaido will crush her world, deny her the redeeming death as she rejected the sweet embrace of darkness from him. In the time he finished with her, there will be nothing that can be killed. Only an empty husk will remain.

"Worororo! Worororo! Worororo! I will destroy everything that is important to her. Then I will get her!" The crowd froze flabbergasted, watching the giant of a man bursting out in a tearful glee.

"Yo-"Sheepshead gulped terrified. He never actually saw Kaido as a happy drunk. Quarrelsome, that's okay because he had experience in how to treat the situation. But happy drunk. He had no idea what to expect from his master. "Your Majesty! Please! Calm down!"

"Worororo! I am happy! I found a new hobby!" he announced, standing up.

"I-Is that so?" everyone sweatdropped.

"Oh! Such a joyful occasion, let's celebrate it with a festival!" Coming out from his hiding, Orochi clapped with a forced smile, and many servants burst into motion. Clearing the rubble and arranging the surrounding. "The execution will be delayed. Please escort…"

Kaido raised his hand grinning. "Don't bother with it…"

Standing up — grabbing his huge war club — the man towered above the captives. His grin was terrifying.

This was the last picture before their immediate death. Kaido's kanabō fall without stopping.

Darkness descended from those who stood in his way in that day. Darkness will fall on anyone who dares to face: "Kaido the hundred beasts!"

Scene Change: Unknown Location:

Around, in a grand hall. Five gentlemen took seats around a small table, seating comfortably on separate couches.

One was a man with a scar on the left side of his face, wearing a hat over grey dreadlocks, and wields a walking cane.

The second was a tall and thin bearded man with long white hair.

The third was completely bald and has large birthmark spots on his forehead and a large white moustache.

The fourth was the oldest looking. He is bald, with glasses and a white Gi. He had also held a samurai sword with him. He is the only one of the five to not wear a black suit or tie, and the only one without facial hair.

The fifth was the youngest looking of the Five Elders; he sported blond hair, a beard of the same colour, and has a scar on his chest. He also wore his suit with the shirt buttons open, and without a tie.

The five whose authorities counted unquestionably. At least, almost unquestionable in the berks of the World Government, most likely on the whole globe.

The five elder stars.

"The end of the war raised some questions."

"Hmmm… Indeed. The death of Whitebeard will cause ripples. Ripples those will quake the whole world. Soon, fights will break out to claim the territory left unchecked."

"Hnn… Indeed troublesome. But not our concern as it falls outside our jurisdiction. Albeit, the conflict could spread over our territories. We need to make sure to contain it in those lands. Stopping it before it could destabilise our adored order."

"Umu…" all five nodded.

"What about the fleet Admiral? According to Kong. Right after the battle, he announced his retirement."

"It cannot be helped. It was "his" choice. Soon, someone else will take his place as the champion of justice." said the one with dreadlocks, hitting the ground with his cane.

"Umu… Albeit, I am worried. What to do with Ace and Blackbeard."

"What of them."

"Ace is still alive. Being the son of Roger, the remainders of Whitebeard crew will most likely follow him as the successor of Edward Newgate. We cannot allow that."

The five could only hum, as it was a likely scenario.

It was a huge mistake announcing his heritage before his execution. Bigger mistake as he actually survived. Soon, more and more pirate will join him as he will grow the symbol of the new age of piracy, seeing Roger watching his back.

"It is indeed troublesome. But I think, the situation will solve itself."

"Hmmm… What do you mean?" asked the third, the thin, bearded man, opening his elderly eyes inquired.

The eldest nodded, continuing. "The remainder of the Whitebeard pirates and Teach will inevitably clash in the future. It is most likely they will simply kill each other. If not, one will win, emerging as a new pole of power. A new Yonko. The scale will stabilise once more. We can only profit from the situation…"

Humming, the four around him nodded.

…

The four continued their discussion, speaking mostly about topics concerned the World Government and the outcome of the war. The analysis went for hours, in the end, the five reached the part of "Angel".

"That lass surely caused some trouble. I would dare even to say she is almost as troublesome as a Yonko?"

"Do any of you have any information about her whereabouts?"

Now, that was a good question, since Shanks took her and Edward Newgate's body. No one heard about them. And it was since around a month the war ended. True, after Akainu "fisted" his way through her stomach, it is expected from her to lay low for a while — If she even survived. But hearing not about her so long was still strange. It was almost — "Unsettling…"

Lowering his head, the one with a birthmark answered the question. "Indeed. But I am sure she will travel with Shanks for a while. "

"Umu… most likely."

"Seeing her accomplishments and power. She is just too dangerous to leave her unchecked. But currently, we just don't have the capacity to keep tabs about her."

"The reports of the CP states, many individuals seeking her. Either to challenge her power or to offer their allegiance. If this goes on, she might gain a quite support ground."

"We cannot allow that!" once more, the one with the dreadlocks hit the ground hard, the sound his sturdy cane generated resounded around the hall. "We can't let such mockery of light to exist! We need to extinguish this wildfire before the winds entice it even more!"

"What about the new PZ unit? Is it ready yet? It is capable all of that Vegapunk promised us?"

Everyone turned to the blonde elder — who until now listened in silence. Raising his head, he simply answered. "According to Vegapunk. It is not yet ready to live deployment. Highly unstable. If we deploy it now, we may lose control over it."

Everyone eyed him for a moment. But accepting the answer with a nod. It would be mildly troublesome if such a dangerous weapon turned against them.

"…"

They completely understood. Even the PX units had a development period. It cannot be helped.

And how long Vegapunk started the development? Around four months? Around since they sent a DNA sample in secrecy to him, seeing Caesar lack of success with the operation. Using the DNA sample, they managed to collect from her under her slumber.

Compared to the short time, Vegapunk managed to get know many things and create the first prototype. A prototype that was unstable, but was deployable if the need called for it.

According to the initial measurement, the creature's destructive capability is at least on par with Mihawk, and this is only the early measurement. And if what Vegapunk said is correct, the unit sturdy enough to survive a blank range Dyna Stone explosion. With this, they can't lose.

If everything goes according to the plans, the World Government need the Shichibukai no more. If the mass production became a possibility, they would rule the seas, forever. Even the Yonko became nothing more than a nuisance. The revolutionary army will be purged from both lands and the sea. The rule of the empty throne will become absolute.

The only problem is, the price of such unit will equal of a small flotilla with two fully equipped Marine issued battleship in the fleet. Much more than a simple PX unit. And it was expensive enough at is. Even so, thinking about the possible benefit of the new PZ units made it a worthwhile investment.

Naturally, until the project reached its end state, it was the most well-guarded secret amidst the berks of the World Government. Only the admiralty, the scientist worked on it, and the elders know about it. The leakage of the information would result in the complete loss of the balance between the sides, the balance that was already on the verge of collapse with the death of Whitebeard. Knowing they develop such a destructive weapon would make all three remained Yonko takes the necessary steps.

Thinking about Angel, the source where the new PZ units originate from. Whatever she is, even Vegapunk was unable to distinguish her real nature.

She is not devilled fruit user; neither a human. She is not a Merfolk. She is neither a giant nor any known race. Her DNA is utterly unique, something new, not even resembling the races extinct in the void century.

…

"Her DNA offers everything humanity ever carved for. Power, might, knowledge, immortality. Yet, it is tamper-proof, alluring yet cruel. Like a beautiful woman. It shows the knowledge, yet it refuses to share. If you ask me, she is a new step of evolution. No… she is the end goal every organic carves to be. A Sea King amongst simple fish. If her DNA encounters an obstacle, it simply overcomes it by its sheer toughness, and with something, that defies every rule of physic. In its current state, she did not evolve anymore, because there is no direction for evolving… there is nothing to evolve! There is no obstacle to overcome! The perfect creature."

…

The blonde elder remembered every word Vegapunk shared with him, and it was kinda embarrassing.

The elder never saw the scientist so enthusiastic before.

Usually, his attitude was of apathetic at best — as he reached everything a scientist wishes for. Aside from the devil fruits, nothing really irked Vegapunk's attention anymore. Then, as they provided the data, Caesar collected under his half year, and the DNA sample remained in the scene. He became much livelier immediately, like a giddy kid.

If they could just give him the project from the start instead of Caesar Clown, they would most likely have a few stable models already. They had made a mistake, a mistake they will not repeat anymore.

"!"

Humming, the eldest amongst them — wearing white Gi — gazed at the blonde. "What should we do with the girl? According to Sengoku, she caused quite a ruckus in Marineford under the war."

"We need to locate her. Such threat cannot be left unchecked…" stroke his moustache the one with the birthmark.

"As it said. Our last report from her was in Marineford — when Shanks took her, and Whitebeard's body, and left the HQ. After the end of the war. Since then, the Cipher Pol is looking for her. Unfortunately, until now no agent reported her appearance."

"Hmmm… Troublesome, considering our lack of information about her. We can't say for sure. We don't even know if she survived Admiral Akainu's attack or not. She might be as well dead after that trauma."

"I doubt it if Vegapunk's reports are accurate. Such nuisance could hardly kill her. I think she just fooled us."

"Hmmm… Why do you think that way?"

"Aren't it obvious?" the man with the birthmark on his head huffed. "What Sengoku told me — she was able to keep up with all four of them — at once no less. If you ask me, she plays to be seen as more approachable. Sometimes if you are too strong, you remain alone. In that case, showing weakness is the adequate solution to fool the enemy. She is planning something, I feel it."

"She is saving Ace makes it even worse." the elder with the majestic beard tilted his head cross-armed. "We need to assess the situation as soon as possible and eradicate Roger's line before it can flourish once more. We need to eradicate the will of D!"

"So, what can we do? Teach most likely start his crusade against the remaining of Whitebeard's legacy. If we are lucky, he will solve our problem with Ace. But his ability to steal devil fruit powers can be problematic for the future. The PZ units could be an adequate problem solver, as they showed some ability to neutralise Devil Fruit powers to some degree."

Explained the blonde one with great care. Yes, it was indeed a handy ability. But Haki can do the same, and many of their officers have them. Hell! The prerequisite to reaching high rank in the Navy to proficiently use at least your armament Haki. Without it, advancing through the ranks was harder one might imagine.

"There is still a question, how to handle her." only the one without any facial hair pushed the question. The question they needed an answer as soon as possible.

"The only ones able to somewhat contain her the Admirals. But we can't possibly station them in the new HQ all the time, waiting for her to show up."

"What about naming her a Yonko? It could solve the problem, no?" offered the one with the birthmark.

"Hmm?" raised his brow the eldest, and the three remained gave a stink eye to him.

"That may be a temporary solution. As the three remained, Yonko will soon start a war to occupy Newgate's orphaned territories. It may give us some breathing room as Kaido and Big Mom could occupy her long enough. I am not sure about Shanks, the two of them showed signs of friendship according to the reports. The two of them joining forces would be catastrophic in every front."

"Indeed, as well." the blonde looked around. "According to our best knowledge. Currently, she has no active supporters under her rule. A few people claim to belong under her. But without confirmation, this is just gossip, nothing more."

"Umu. I would like to point it out one more thing." stroke his beard the thinnest elder. "She lacks the territories to be a proper Yonko. Even Shanks have a territory the other three revere. Not because he had that big of a fleet. No, officially, he only has one ship. The forces are patrolling in his territory all self-organised militia. Everyone keep their hands off his enclave due they know what happens to those who attack his people."

Remembering the reports the elders receive every time Shanks clash with some foolish newbie, fills them with uneasiness. That man is the devil itself. In his younger days, his frequent clashes with Mihawk can be heard on the other side of the Grand Line.

Once he teams up with Angel, the integrity of the "Empty Throne" will be in danger. There might be a high chance that either of them reaches Raftel first. And if that happens, if they get their hands on that "Thing", nothing can stop them actually to destroy the World Government. Destroy Justice and light!

"In the current situation, we had to consider the option to herd her our side. Even if it's a temporary alliance."

The remained four elder watched wide-eyed the one with the birthmark on his forehead.

"You cannot be serious!" hit the ground with his cane the one with the dreadlocks.

"Think about it; if we could convince her to join the CP or even the Marines. All of our problems would be solved. We would gain a powerful ally, and the pirates would learn the true meaning of Justice!" gritted his teeth the man with the birthmark, trying to figure out a suitable method to make her join.

"I don't think she would ever join us willingly, not after what happened. Maybe if we have someone who is important to her in custody, we could force her to cooperate. But without it, there is nothing we can bind her. Gentlemen, it is hard to admit. As we still have the gun, but we just don't have the bullets to use it."

It was hard to swallow, but every present member nodded uneasily. It cannot be helped. She was an unknown variable. A variable that can destroy the balance if she wishes, or she had a bad day. A new threat they can't ignore.

"I suppose there is no actual way to convince her to join the Shichibukai."

"Hardly. She refused last time. Why would she accept now? In her current state, there is nothing we can offer her in exchange. Or rather, she simply not interested what we can offer." shrugged the blonde.

"No matter what, we had to leave the possibility open. Send her a letter, an invitation to join their ranks. With a special treatment clause. Recruiting her, or containing her is crucial for the future."

"Umu… It will be done." stroke his beard the greying man.

"Even so. She is neither a Yonko, nor Shichibukai, nor a Marine. Gentlemen, no matter how hard it is to swallow. If she gains followers and territory, if she continues her actions, I fear, we have to introduce the fourth great power once more. I fear, the Māra will rose, like back in the Void Century." announced the one with the katana and white robes, his expression hard, mirroring his great concern.

Freezing, the four remained just stared at him for long moments.

"Am I right? Your Majesty, Im." the eldest amongst the five turned his attention against the door.

A shadowed silhouette of a man swayed the room, on his head a crown with four incredibly tall spikes. His eyes coloured almond, with light coloured irises.

Scene Change: Unknown Island:

The small craft slowly wobbled, reaching the coast of the mid-sized tropical island.

The small boat only had one inhabitant. It was a girl, her features pale, yet exotic, her hair snow white — with the exception of one of her bang — which was pure blackness. Her dual coloured eyes mischievous, jade green and aquatic.

Her long knee coat with the kanji on her back — "enforcer" — fluttered in the air as she stood in her small boat. Her white gloves well made, adorned with strange runes and pentagrams.

Unnatural winds fueled the movement of her small craft, the craft that soon filled with water — it most likely received a leakage under the journey.

Standing on the top of the mast, her boat barely reached the adequate range before disappeared under the waters.

Like the confident pirate captain from a certain movie — With a quick hop, the wet sand squirmed under her black, military-style boots. She lost her borrowed boat, but it did not matter as she will compensate the previous owner for the loss once they meet once more.

Adjusting her tie, her journey was long but merciful. Her small travel bag hung over her shoulder lazily, filled with a thermostat worth coffee and cooked Sea King rations.

How she baked it in the open sea?

(Don't ask questions you don't want to receive an answer. You will only get more confused.)

It is for a few days she and Shanks parted ways.

It cannot be helped. She had really wanted to adventure with the merry band a little bit more. But she had duties to attend. She had to start her search, or she will never find her way home. And for that — first — she needed a lab, a steady income, connections and raw materials — A ton of raw materials to be exact.

Staring the vast seas, their separation came in her mind.

Flashback:

Standing in the small boat hung on the side of the Red Force. Angel's expression angled towards the gathered crew, her new Nakama. It was a hard decision. But for the time being, she needed to leave them. She had duties to attend. She had a task to start.

"Are you sure you want to go?" Asked Shanks with a broad smile. "You know, you are welcomed here. You know, we are your Nakama." his crew chuckled behind him, several of them nodded approving. "You could conduct that research of yours in the ship too. Just don't blow up the vessel, I became quite used to it under the recent years."

Behind him the crew burst out in laughter, hearing them Angel just smiled softly, nodding slowly. "Unfortunately, it cannot be helped. I need a whole island for such a thing. Possibly a deserted island as the nature of the experiment is quite volatile."

"Oh! You always say that" smirked Shanks. "Care to share a few details? Maybe we could help."

"Unfortunately, I myself don't yet know the required materials. Just the need of the steady ground where I can start to build the necessary complex."

"Ohh! I see…" Shanks swept his finger under his nose smirking. "I assume you need quite a funds to make it."

"I will manage." she looked in the far. "As always."

"Hmm… Very well then. Then you need this." recovering the pouch she gave him, with a passive motion she caught it.

"Hmmm? Why do you give it back?" she watched him confused, and Shanks' and his crew's expression sunk immediately remembering the reason.

"That money, it only causes trouble." Shanks shrug was entirely visible; his crew as well looked quite relieved getting rid the jewels and the gold the small bag contained.

"You know. It is pretty rude giving the gift — I wholeheartedly give you — back." Angel stared the small bag in her palm confused, scratching her face.

"It only caused trouble. Do you know how much it worth?"

Measuring the bag, throwing it in the air and catching it a few times, her expression was of a person who is thinking hard. "Hmm… Not much… I should give you more. You are right giving back. Please forgive my ungrateful self. Wait a moment I give you more."

"NOT MUCH!?" shouted the whole crew, forcing Angel to back.

"What? What?" defensively raising her arms, she was utterly confused.

"So, you don't know how much it worth, neither what the hell is that bag?" pointed at her Shanks with a serious face.

"What with the bag?" she asked with crossed arms, tilting her head innocently.

Shanks facepalmed, she is surely fooling with them. "It's bigger inside." he deadpanned. "A lot bigger."

"What of it? It's a normally issued traveller bag. You can't expect to carry everything while you travel around."

"So, let me get it straight…" he pointed the small purse in her hand. "That thing is bigger inside."

"Yep…"

"And you said that is a minimal amount for you."

"Yep…"

"Just how much money you have…?" Now, everyone watched Angel with an expression that mirrored their total disbelief. They still thought she is just jesting around.

"How should I know?" she scratched the top of her head with an impassive expression.

"WHAT!?" resounded the hoarse expression of unbelief.

"Look. I am a hoarder. As I adventure around I pick up things — even trash, sometimes. How should I know? Once I picked up and find it interesting enough, I put it in my bag without a second thought."

Shanks gulped aloud. "I know it is indecent to ask. But just how long you adventure?"

"Mmmm…" she placed her finger on her lips. "Long enough. Sorry, don't really remember."

"…"

In truth, the money and jewels she gave to Shanks as an appreciation of his kindness was the really minuscule amount, according to YGGDRASIL standards of course.

"…"

Shanks just sighed, abandoning the idea to get know more.

He was aware; she travelled with them for more than one month. But he never had the chance to ask about it. As they either — adventured, threw a party or a more critical matter come in their attention. Hell, he was freaking curious how the hell she healed her stomach less than a month.

She only said — Haki based healing, but such a thing doesn't exist. Right?

Shanks asked Pierre about it, and he did not hear about such stuff. It is either they are clueless about the new techniques — she came from very far away (that was confirmed) — or she is just fooling with them (like usual).

"Whatever." Shanks deadpanned in the end. "Just please, take that cursed gold from us. Since you gave it to us, those freaking investment advisors always find our ship. In the middle of nowhere! Do you believe it?!"

Behind Shanks the crew started the mumble, remembering the recently appearing salesmen all over the ship.

They just pop out of nowhere, offering investment options all day. And Shanks and his crew was fucking clueless how they find and infiltrate the ship of a Yonko without them recognising them first!

"Oh! You speak about those guys you threw out from the ship yesterday?"

Shanks nodded with a sight, turning his head away with a dreadful expression. "Please, just take it."

"Oh, well. If you insist." she chuckled, hiding the gold under her coat. "Don't worry, next time I will give you more."

"Please, just no…" The crew of the Red Force can't help but gulp and try to push the offer away.

Speaking a few more words, it was time to go.

…

"Well then, it is time to go."

"Where you will go now?" inquired the captain with a soft expression.

"Inspecting your maps, I have a few ideas. As well, I need to check if Luffy is alright. I also promised Mihawk-kun to visit him on his island. You know him, leave him alone long enough, and he might do something reckless."

Remembering his old friend, Shanks could only smirk. Indeed, he was a troublesome individual, no matter how he tried to hide it.

"Well, that's Dracule for you, causing trouble everywhere he goes."

Looking into each other eyes, the two friends gave each other a respectful nod. "If you need us. Don't hesitate to call. You can find us using the Vivre card."

"I say the same. Use the [Message Stone] I gave you, and you can contact me any time. Or you just simply grow bored and want to chat."

Watching the strange stone she gave him several days ago, Shanks could only raise his brow. It worked, he confirmed it yesterday. Following her instructions, he only needed to concentrate, and the mental connection opened. It was like a Den Den Mushi in his head, just without range limitation.

Angel was like a mystery. Solving it became more and more distant with each piece of information revealed before the red-haired pirate. But it made the treasure — that was Angel — even more enticing

"One more thing."

"Yes?" Shanks raised his brow.

"Remember the badge I gave you?"

Recovering the exquisite badge under his coat (that looked like a royal seal), he inspected it.

"What about it? Don't say you are a royalty and this is the key for the royal vaults." he threw the screw sarcastic, making his whole crew burst, flashed a grin.

"Hmm… Maybe, I leave it to you figure out. Just don't sell or lose it. It might come handy for the future."

"I see…" his smile returned.

Saluting one last time, she turned around, pulling her military styled cap lower. "Don't be stranger, Shanks. Next time we meet, we throw a party."

"Dahahahaha! I bet on that!"

With that, she pulled the rope and the small boat descended on the side of the Red Force, her journey continued — this time alone.

…

Flashback end:

With that sentence, they parted ways. She needed to go. She needed to start her search, or she might never find a way to return home.

No matter how she wanted, travelling with Shanks and his crew in the current situation, it was equalled with the impossibility. If she actually wanted to proceed with her project she needed to be alone a little bit. Work in secrecy.

Finding a suitable island was hard enough. An island that was desolate enough, so no one bothers her under her work. The defence and the protection of her assets were also necessary.

She needed to start to summon her soldiers as soon as she can, so she can secure her independence — she adored so much.

True, she could hire pirates or mercenaries to do the dirty work. But she would not trust something as unstable as a pirate or an individual who could sell her out for a few coins. Thus, using her own summoned soldiers was the best option.

Workers those never tire. Soldiers those never defy her orders. Servants those will never say no if she ordered. In the current situation, for the construction, she planned — that what she needed.

Unfortunately, without material to bind them in this plane, she can't create permanent summons. She needed something in exchange. A soul of an individual or raw material equalled such thing.

Back home, she used specially made metal armours to ensure the binding is secured. Ainz used bodies to do the same and create permanent undead.

Unfortunately, dead bodies came easier than precious metals, because of this, her options were limited creating her permanent soldiers.

Concentrating on a proper solution, with a mental command, behind her back two humongous feathered wings stretched, reaching the four meters in latitude. One of it was white as the whitest snow; the second was black as the raven wings. Both of them emitted twilight energy — mixing the holy and the demonic, dark proportions of her power.

With a majestic flap, her body raised in the ground. "Oahhh… it was such a long time I did not use my wings. They went completely numb." A few more flap and the wind generated by the feathered wings was so strong, it literally made the trees near the coastal bend, and the water recedes. Creating miniature tempest around her.

Flying in the air, her speed easily exceeded three Mach, and she did not even push herself hard. She just wanted to stretch her wings a little bit after not using them so long. After a doing a few air tricks, she stopped above the island.

As said, it was a tropical island stretched several ten square kilometres, with an inactive Vulcan in the middle of it.

"Hmm, strange." she spotted several small encampments scattered around in the jungle. Actually, the island was pretty well maintained, with steadily maintained dirt roads and three ports where ships anchored. The biggest camp was the one near the hill in the middle of the island. Just where the small dirt road led towards the top of the mountain.

It was filled with people, armed people and cages. Cages filled with dirty looking men and women. If she saw it right, there were several kids as well.

"Must be slaves." she positioned several kilometres high. Still, her enchanted vision saw everything clear. Her passive [Truesight] assessed the environment under a moment.

"Tch… That's for my plan to open a base here…" Of course, she could simply exterminate the slavers. Caring not about the slaves and start her excavation here, but that would mean she had to kill a bunch of innocents.

She could, of course, but that would be just nasty. And she rather hated nasty things. She was a half demon, still, killing innocents even according to her demonic side just made no sense. "Why just killing them when you can torture them and use them as workforce? You dummy!" Noted her dark side suddenly.

"Ahhh… it cannot be helped." Angel cracked her neck, pulling her mouth sidewards. "It is better just too simply find a new deserted island." she watched the horizon for a moment. "Dagnabit! According to the archives, this island is empty. I should be more considerate next time and send a few summons forward before going on the scene personally."

Saving the slaves was without avail. Even if she rescued them now, what would they do?

Usually, after a while, slaves or people held captive too long getting used to their lifestyle of a captive, unable to integrate back into the society once more.

They were on a deserted island with only a few ships anchoring in the ports, nearly not enough to carry all of them. Other slavers might as well know this place and often sail there. Saving the slaves now would only push them into the hands of their own slavedrivers once more, earning a severe punishment or immediate execution.

Leaving them as it was actually a merciful act from her part

She was not a saint, and she had neither has the time, nor the patience to pester the freshly freed people, no matter how distasteful slavery was — according to her opinion.

"Well then…" With a slow pace, she descended on the ground. Her wings disappeared immediately. "I can still enjoy the scenery before proceeding."

With that, she started to walk along the coast, nibbling the Sea King snack she recovered from her bag.

…

On the coastline, a small figure proceeded. His clothes ragged, his appearance dirty, several bruises adorned his body. His hair flare cut and almond coloured.

Instead of a pair of lively violet eyes, two empty oculars settled in his sockets. Filled with a tear, sniffing, his vision was foggy.

He was tired; his legs will soon give to his pursuers.

"Get back you little shit!"

Behind him, several very, very angry fishmen raced, trying their best to capture the kid before he gets away. Still, despite their trained body, the slavers were unable to catch him, the small kid was too fast for them.

"Quick! The brat will get away!"

Run! Run! Run! Can't spear a breath now!

Why he had to endure this? Why!?

His parents were dead. His relatives were killed! No one remained to him. Since he remembered, he was alone. Since his flesh had been marked, everyone spat on him. He was a pariah, even amidst his peers.

Why he struggles when nothing awaits him in the outside world? Just why!?

If there were someone he cared, it would be understandable to flee. But without it, it was only out of his basic survival instinct.

He was fast; he was the fastest amongst the slaves. His like skeletal complexion also helped him to run away.

"Just a little bit more…" only this thought coursed through his mind. Yet, he was unable to comprehend why. There is no salvation; there is no saviour out there.

This was an isolated island far from any civilization or authority. Only the slavers used to sail here and built a steady infrastructure to conduct their business.

One moment to other, when he thought to gain a little bit of advantage. His legs stumbled, falling forward with great speed.

"What the heck…" he heard the mumbling voice behind him. It belonged to a female. The sweetest sound he ever heard.

"You there!" came the voice of the manta-like Fishman, aiming his flintlock at her face.

"Another one?" asked confused the one with the hammerhead qualities.

"I swear! Day after day more and more of them escapes. We really need to tighten our security."

Angel just scraped the top of her head, looking around confused as she was still sleepy waking up from her occasional slumber. "Wha…" She yawned with a sleepy expression.

"Silence, slave!" one of them hit her jaw with the end of his gun's pommel. The almond haired kid turned his head away.

He saw it; he saw it too many times what happens those who defy the slavers. Their overlords.

'Thud!'

The hit definitely connected, but her expression was still utterly bored. "Ah? Do you want something?"

Flabbergasted, the fishmen watched each other. "Scuff her!"

Using her, and the boy's confusion, they cuffed both of them.

"Hmmm… I never asked for bracers. It's just not my style."

"Silence! I don't know how you escaped, but the boss will make you pay for it!"

"Duh…" she deadpanned, watching the kid for a moment. "They always like that?"

The child was unable to decide how to answer, nodded merely sweatdropping.

"Girly bracelets just not my style…" Probing her cuffs, they simply broke like they were made from frail cakes.

"You little bitch!" aimed at her face the Manta ray like a man, pulling the trigger.

A flash and the kid stared her in disbelief. "That was not nice…" Everyone just stared her for long moments, as her head tilted, holding the small iron ball amidst her teeth. Just to a next moment crushed it amidst grinding sounds. 'Crack!' the bullet in her mouth shattered.

"What the…!"

"My turn…" raising her finger, pointing at the fish man who shoots her black point range, she simply said that much. "Bang!"

His head burst, immediately, leaving only his twitching body behind. "Who's next?" she grinned, pointing her index against the others.

The [Psychic Bullet] was the weakest amongst the Esper class abilities, but it was well sufficed such weak opponents those stood before her.

Trembling, the remained five had no idea what to do. They simply can't place the strange girl and her strange technique.

"Well, I am waiting for a proper answer? If you don't answer, I might be forced to use my gun…" Angel raised her hand — that formed a gun. "I have ammunition, you know? I can shoot all day long…"

Trembling, the Fishman with the hammerhead shark appearance raised his sword, charges against her. "Yeaaahhhh! Die you, bitch!"

"I warned you…!~" she sang, rolling her eyes. And in the next moment. "Bang!" One more head exploded.

Watching at each other in disbelief, the remaining three dropped their weapon and simply ran away. "Uwaaaa!" "Monster!" "We need to call the boss!"

"Urghhh… Why everyone is yelling today?" she nudged her head annoyed, turning away she started to walk. Just to recognize the kid is following her.

"Huh? What do you want, kid?"

The child just watched her long moments, the light slowly returning his eyes.

"Whatever…" she snorted. She had no idea how to deal with kids. She was not good at it back home, neither she knows how to treat them now. She was not a 'kid person'.

…

Walking on the coast, the kid still followed her.

The island was bigger than she first thought. From above the skies, it looked so small. But walking on it actually, the coast was quite broad. It cannot be helped, after all, she inspected it several kilometres high.

The night descended, and the sea kings started to become more and more active — playing with each other on the horizon. Flipping, dancing in the waters. "The creatures much more active at night… Hnnn… Strange." recovering her small, leather-bound notebook under her coat. She took notes.

She can't help it; she needed to record the strange nature of this worlds. It was just not right to let the knowledge to go to waste.

Looking up, the moon and the stars were beautiful. It was like the stars aligned differently depending on where she was. This world was indeed weird.

Glancing behind her, what really bugged her was the kid. He still followed her wherever she went. Staring her like a boy his mother. In the dark, it was just creepy.

Grinding her teeth, she can't take anymore. "Kid… Stop following me…" pointing at him; he could only shake his head. Then, in the next moment, his stomach roared, imitating the mating song of the whales.

"Ugh… What I needed. A hungry kid… Just my luck!" she brushed her head frustrated. "I assume you are hungry."

He just nodded but said nothing.

"At least you are not noisy." A compliment the child only accepted with a head tilt. "Wait here. I will be back under a few minutes."

He watched her, but she was like a flash. Disappeared from his sight. Her movements were unnaturally fast.

He searched for her for long moments but found her nowhere.

Setting a campfire on the place, as the night was chilly, it was always chilly. He gave up on it; she will not come back. She abandoned him, like everyone else…

He doesn't even care anymore the fires will give him away. He will just let the slavers find him and take him back. What can they do with him after all that he went through? Kill him? Don't joke! It would be redemption after all he went through. Punish him? He was mostly immune whatever they can come up with. The daily beatings made sure of that.

Starvation, beatings day after day. Working until they can't stand. Marked by the celestial dragons really put you in the lowest level of the food chain. Even his fellow slaves were wary of staying in his immediate vicinity or spat on him. Thinking he is cursed or something.

The last person tried to be kind to him beaten to death by his slavers.

His hands were a little scally, on his neck the faint traces of gills can be seen, signing he was only half human.

He was hungry, but to hunt, he needed strength. The strength he does not have due he was heavily underfed. The slavers bothered not to feed them usually. Time to time they dropped some scrap before them, but that's all. Their generosity stopped here.

Before the dream could overcome his mind. Something heavy landed, or rather dropped on the ground, making him rise immediately. "Wha…!?" his voice was thin, like a girl's. But it was not surprising, in his age — that was between seven and twelve — his underfeed state made his real age hard to decide. In his maturity, voice can be deceiving.

"Now then. Here is the food. Eat it up."

He eyed her with a strange look, trying to figure out if she speaks seriously or not.

The dead boar before him was sizable. Dwarfing the white-uniformed girl several times over. Yet, she slew it, yet, she carried it here, only using one of her arms no less.

"Ugh…" Angel just rolled her eyes. "Fine then!"

Pulling out a ninjato from under her coat, she slowly started to skin the animal, removing its viscera. Preparing then seasoning it with the herbs she found near.

Now she was thrilled asking Aura to teach her how exactly skin and prepare an animal for consumption.

Angel was not that hungry, but seeing the hungry kid before her, she instead not risked the chance of infection. It might kill him in his heavily underfeed, weakened state.

..

Around one and a half hour later. The meat was ready, nicely roasted and seasoned with the nearby herbs. "Huh… who knew? Asking Sous-chef and Zero to teach me how to cook — at least basic meals — pays out in the end? Of course, being not possessing any related cooking skills the food I prepare provides no buff, and tastes quite bland compared to others possessing the skill."

Giving him the food, the kid basically tore it out from her hand. Starting to devour the sizable piece immediately.

"Geez! You really hungry…"

The kid just nodded and continued his meal.

A little bit more time and he finished with it, only the steaming bones remained.

"I-I thank you, my Lady…" he bowed his head, his voice Angel still found suspiciously girly.

"Sure thing." she snarled. "So, what's the deal with the fismen around?" she played with her ninjato, picking her nails.

"They are slave-holders," he stated simply. "They keep us in camps. Barely giving us eat, forcing us to work on the mines until we pass out or die."

"Hmmm… I wonder what they mine… If there would be any special ores around, I am sure either the Navy or one of the Yonko would be here to claim it. Or, they simply don't know about it."

"I see… So that's why…" she pointed the shackles around his limbs and neck.

The chain was strangely broken, corroded. Angel had no idea how, but he managed to find a way to break them by corroding the chains away. "By the way. What is your name?"

Turning his head away for a moment, he offered his left forearm. On the backside of it, a number had been tattooed. "46664," he mumbled.

"That's a number." she raised her brow.

"That's how people always called me." It was true; it is since his early childhood he is a captive. It is since his first years he was marked, and his parents were killed. He doesn't even know his real name anymore. Since then, he only wanders, exchanging owners from time to time.

"Hmm… Ok…" she said only that much. It was not her place to name him or help him. She was not a good Samaritan.

"Can you help?"

"With what?"

"Freeing the others." He was aware… after they treated him. He should not care what happens with his fellow slaves. But he hoped, only hoped after saving them he can acquire some care, some gratitude.

"Why should I?" Angel deadpanned.

"Yo-You took care of those slavers, easily. Just pointing your fingers at them and "Bang!" Mimicking her motion, his sunken eyes shone. "Please…" Pushing his forehead to the dust, Angel can't do anything more just snort. "Please save us."

"Raise your head. It is humiliating and inconvenient. Not only for you but for me."

The kid raised his nob, waiting for a definite answer. But what he received… "Sorry, I am not a good Samaritan. Even if I hate slavery, it is not my place to fix the wrongdoings of others or the world. I am not the hero clad in white armour. (like my friend was) I am not a paladin who saves the weak."

"Well, well well. You said it right…" Looking in the direction of the voice, a big group appeared. Several burly looking fishmen and human came to her vision. All of them carrying guns, swords, axes or other tools. Tools intended to harm others.

"Hmmm… And you are?" she raised her brow.

"The only thing you need to know is. My boss wants to speak with the one killed two of his men. Strangely, he is very interested in the one who killed his men, you know?"

"Ah… here we go again…" she sighed, watching the kid on his side. "I don't have the mood tonight… Hush-hush. Go away…" she waved them away uncaring, a move that triggered a few angry grumbles from the crowd.

"Just what do you think, who you are!?"

"Ahhh… you are just bothersome. Why don't you just leave me alone?" she yawned, and the leader of the pirates waved. "Why I have to pester imbeciles all the time? Just why me?" she pouted angrily.

"Guys, get her."

"But, Daro. According to the guys came back from the patrol, she just blew their heads off. With her finger, no less!"

"Senseless speculation. Get her; the boss said she wants her alive. Most likely for a bed warmer."

"She looks quite familiar. Are you sure we could do it?"

"Don't speak nonsense, she is just a frail girl."

The crowd sneered in joy, and she could only facepalm, watching the timid kid for confirmation. Confirmation about her opponents is really that stupid. "Is this, really?" In return, the kid only shrugged and looked away, offering a pained expression.

Closing on her, she could only scrape her neck. "Well, it cannot be helped." placing on her hand on Yamato, it took just a flash.

"Wha… What happened…?"

The ones are closing on her missing their arm. The blood is only gushing now from their stumps. "Wel then…" her arm spread, offering a warm hug with a devilish smirk. "Who's next." Her eyes flashed like a devil, mirroring her real nature. Several stones raised in the air as her psychic powers activated.

Gulping, they already realised their mistake. "I—I knew. I knew that face is familiar. A-Angel…!"

"Are you joking?" they all heard about the battle of Marineford. They all know Whitebeard is dead. They all saw her wanted a poster. All but a few saw the mediation about the battle of Marineford.

Shaking their head, they burst into a scream. "Whaaaa!" and simply ran away. "We need the boss for this!" "Eiiiii!"

After the slavers disappeared, Angel could only sight. When she finally could have some fun. She really loved messing with bullies — and fools. Watching people cry as their false picture of authority crumbling to dust was always so satisfying.

"Well, I suppose they were rude. I should meet with their boss. Maybe he could offer some form of entertainment." watching the kid for a moment, she recognised the brimming in his eyes reached a new height. The light of adoration and respect.

She saw it too many times, and it was simply annoying now. "Ughhh… Not again."

"Kid, this will be ugly. For your own peace of mind. Get lost." with that, she departed, leaving '46664' alone, flashing away.

…

Her way led through the woods, sneering on the screams of the slavers.

Strolling, strolling, and strolling. It took only around an hour, and she found the main base. It was not as hard as the fleeing victims carried their bleeding companions with them, marking a steady path with blood.

"This is your time to pay
This is your judgment day
We made a sacrifice
And now we get to take your life

We shoot without a gun
We'll take on anyone
It's really nothing new
It's just a thing we like to do…"

She hummed her little lullaby, walking forward.

Around the camp, there was a sturdy wooden fence, equipped with barbed wire. Several guard tower towered above the borders, rigged with searchlights.

She already heard the screams, one of her summon just reached this camp. She calculated, three will be enough to clear this island. She summoned them a little bit earlier as she had neither had the time, nor the willingness to end the small fries alone.

Using [Life Essence] above the island, she saw the vast number of the opponents. Distributed in five camps.

The mentioned summons was Nephalem Guards. Creatures clad in a dark grey armour adorned with cracks wherefrom light emanated. Behind their back, two energy wings sprouted, the tentacle in design. From under their dark hoods two evilly dimming eyes gazing back at their oppressors.

Their equipment is consisting of weapons, such as sword and bows constructed from pure energy.

Their orders were: Kill who resist, capture who surrender or start to flee. Bind and hoard them in one place.

"Monsters!" "Owaaa! Get away from me!" many voices shouted from the camp. The attackers were all cut down by the blades made from pure darkness and light. The slain foes raised as shadowy aberrations. [Aether Revenants] as they called. Haunting those who still lived and resisted stubbornly.

With their numbers ever growing, panic started to spread, forcing many slavers to flee in terror.

"Hmm… the sweet voices of desperation." she hummed with closed eyes. Then… "What!?" Her eyes widened, she felt like one of her summon had been damaged. A thing should not be possible. Unless… "Now, it is interesting." The possibility made her smile, something substantial enough resided in the island. Strong enough to hurt her summon — those were around level 35-40. Notable, according to the residents of her world creatures of that level was able to fight armies alone and was strong enough to threaten whole countries with annihilation. Of course, the people of her old world often exaggerated things in a fair margin.

"Let's check it…" with that, she disappeared, using her [Instant Transmission] ability to get the location of the event.

What will await her? Will she ever find her way home? You will know next time.

"Well, that's interesting." A shadowed figure hiding, smiled in the shadows, raising his Den Den Mushy to make his report. "Dragon, I found her… well, mostly…"

In the next chapter:

The end of slavery, the start of a new age.

"If you really want freedom. You need to earn it yourself! No one will fight instead of you! No one will raise you! Rise! Held your head high! True freedom can be only earned through sheer will and effort!"

A/N:

Well, that's it. Sorry for the long absence. It will most likely happen as I have less time to write than I had in the past.

Next time, start of a New Age. The first sparks of a new pole of power emerge. The start of a new Empire of necessity.

46664, your journey starts now!