By Your Side is Where I Belong

by TexasBean

All he was supposed to do in Konoha was collect the reward for the bounty and be on his way. But when Zoro defends some kid from a drunk during a festival, he didn't realize he'd get stuck with Naruto. Arriving in Suna, the pair meet Gaara, who ends up leaving with them when he sadly has no reason to stay. Luffy is overjoyed to get three nakama at the start of his journey...

21. A Crazy Girl with a Sword

A/N: Thank you for your support! It's like Gaara collecting teeth for his "art".

I'll be out of town for like a month, so I wanted to get this out before then. And, you get a longer than usual chapter to boot!

Warnings: violence, language, feels, emotional people, the plot thickens here and there is a lot sighing.

000

Chapter Twenty-One: If You Encounter a Crazy Girl with a Sword in a Weapons Shop be Sure to Run Away

000

Previously:

So Zoro had trained intensely before making his way to what he could only describe as a "gateway" and since he was terrible at telling stories and giving details, his companions didn't get anything else beyond that, much to Zabuza's frustration.

Zoro had been in Kiri for a while before he had gotten lost in the desert – the story was cut short for a moment as Zabuza demanded,

"How the hell did you go from Kiri to the fucking desert?!"

"Kiri moved, dammit!" Zoro defended himself.

"Entire countries don't move, at least not like that!" Zabuza reigned in his frustration, already figuring out that arguing with Zoro was akin to arguing with a brick wall that was just sentient enough to speak.

Zoro snorted. "Whatever,"

[***]

Zoro 'hmmed' and walked up to the map and pulled out his own worn map from his pocket.

"What…?" Zabuza stared at the large map in disbelief, and the others were right behind him. The map depicted an odd mountain in the center, which circled around the world, while things called "Calm Belts" whatever those were, circled the world as well. Located within one of the Belts way beyond a place called Fishman Island and various other islands with strange names was the Elemental Nations.

(Zabuza briefly wondered if these Fishmen looked like Kisame did)

In fact, the Elemental Nations was much bigger than it had been depicted on their own "world" maps. Countries that bordered the Elemental Nations had been practically cut in half. What was beyond the borders?

Zoro's voice interrupted Zabuza's thoughts. "That's where I came in," Zoro said, pointing to a small island on the larger map. A circle was scrawled next to it with a number. The number next to the small island indicated that it led to Kiri – and Zabuza's eyes widened when he saw another number next to a point in Kiri that led to… a point in the Land of Wind.

Zoro had been in Kiri for a while before he had gotten lost in the desert.

He had claimed that Kiri had moved… until now, Zabuza had just assumed that Zoro was an idiot who somehow managed to get drastically lost. Well, admittedly he still was, but not to the extent Zabuza had been tempted to think at times.

The stories claimed that Kūhaku were ghosts that could appear out of nowhere… if these 'access points' were spread throughout the Elemental Nations, then that explained quite a few of the legends surrounding them. But that didn't really explain why Zoro got lost in the first place, because from what Zabuza could gather, ending up in Suna the first time hadn't been part of the plan in any way.

Upon further investigation of the map, it looked as if the 'gates' or whatever they were called had apparently been broken at some point because they were crossed out.

0000

The villagers went from cheering to a strange mix of loud, relieved sobbing and laughing hysterically. But no-one could blame them. For the first time in so long, they were finally free.

Luffy stood on top of the building and smiled as well. The sun broke the clouds and shown down on everyone, in oddly perfect timing. He could feel the villagers' unbridled happiness rippling off of them, and it was a wonderful feeling.

[****]

Doctor Nako's clinic hadn't ever been so full. He had people sorted by severity of injury, and when he got to Zoro, the Doctor couldn't help but be irate as he yelled.

"Why the hell weren't you with the first group of people?! Do you even realize how bad this injury actually is?!" the poor Doctor looked ready to blow a gasket. "How are you even moving with this? You actually fought with this injury just hours after getting it?! Are you insane?! You cannot think that simply sleeping for a few hours will heal something like this! Don't roll your eyes at me!"

Attempts to calm Nako down only seemed to frustrate him more. He just couldn't seem to wrap his head around the fact that Zoro actually thought fighting with an injury like his was fine – and his patient being so cavalier about it made things that much more maddening.

It didn't help that Luffy was being casual about his injuries as well. Luffy rotated his injured arm – and only winced slightly, and therefore being able to move it without much trouble meant it was fine.

"I have never in all my years of treating patients have I met a group of people who took so little a concern for their wellbeing!"

"We're gonna be fine," Luffy insisted. "So, when can we leave?"

Doctor Nako crossed his arms and glowered. "Three days."

"What? Three days?!" Luffy's expression rivaled that of a kicked puppy's.

"I mean it." Doctor Nako had a growl in his voice; his irritation shoved any sympathy he might have had out the door, locked it, threw away the key, and then barricaded said door for safe measure. "Any more complaints from you and I'll make it five days. Your Swordsman needs time to recover and that girl," Nako waved a hand at a sheepish Pudding, "has two broken ribs and another two that are cracked."

"I wouldn't mind being your patient for a bit longer, Doctor Nako. Who knows what else of me might need some…closer examination?" Pudding winked and blew a kiss, and Nako scoffed in response.

"Don't worry, Luffy," Sanji assured his Captain, "I'll cook plenty of food for you."

"YAY!" Luffy cheered.

"Stop moving!"

"Can I go now?" Naruto's voice asked above the din. "I feel fine, 'ttebayou."

"No. You were subjected to two doses of pufferfish venom. You need to stay for observation for at least another day."

Naruto stuck out his tongue and pouted.

"If Naruto dies, I get to keep his body. You won't have to worry about funeral rights that way." Gaara stated. "Your bones would go perfectly with my collection."

"I'm not gonna die!" Naruto shouted. "Hey, Doc-Ossan, tell Gaara I ain't gonna die!"

Nako was at the end of his rope.

"Alright, all of you!" Nami shouted, "You're gonna listen to Doctor Nako, and do what he says! We'll take care of our injuries, then leave in three days, and that's final!"

"Aw, man…" Luffy pouted.

"Nami-swan is so beautiful when she's angry." Sanji sighed fondly.

Nami's eye twitched when she overheard Naruto complaining to the others.

"She's so bossy, I'm surprised she didn't tie us up and hit us, ttebayou…"

"I didn't know you were into that sort of thing, Nami-chan!" Pudding exclaimed, looking very happy about that bit of information.

"I'm not! Stop telling people that!"

Nami gave Naruto a smack on the head; not too hard, but it was enough to make Naruto give the others a 'see' expression.

Even though Nami rolled her eyes, she still smiled. These people…her crew…they were impossible. Nami found that she didn't really mind at all. Not that much, anyway.

0000

Commodore Snuzu stared at the gathered Fishmen; then at Zoro who looked entirely bored. Should a guy with all those bandages really be standing? Those two Bounty Hunters, Johnny and Yosaku, was it…? Who was who again? Did it matter?

Snuzu leaned to the side, glancing behind the teen. Luffy was here, too…eating and laughing with the crowd of villagers. Strange. Or at least, he thought that maybe he should consider the situation strange. He had heard Garp was worried about his grandson – so…maybe he should say something?

Anyway.

No sign of that red-haired girl, or that raven-haired kid with the creepy eyes. Wasn't Zoro partners with those two?

Oh, well. It was too tiring and far too troublesome to think about. He yawned.

It seemed that there was another story here.

Arlong had been ruling over this island for the past eight years…and Belle'mere had been killed by him. Upon hearing that, Snuzu suddenly straightened, and his shoulders were back. His hands were behind his back, and anyone who saw Snuzu as the man who had rightfully earned his rank would be worried.

"You killed Belle'mere, did you?" there was a dangerous edge to the Commodore's voice.

Arlong glared, but he still smirked. It looked painful for him to even speak. "Oh? Did I kill a worthless Human that you cared about?"

Snuzu didn't rise to the bait.

"There's a rat-captain who was working with Arlong and allowed him to get away with this." Zoro said from somewhere to Snuzu's left.

"Captain Nezumi?" Snuzu said, raising a brow. He wasn't exactly surprised, but at the same time, Nezumi had always been a little…sleazy. Snuzu had never liked the man.

Snuzu yawned, but didn't slouch like he usually did. "There's talk of one Commodore Pudding Pudding and his men disappearing in this area…would any of you be aware of what happened to them?"

Arlong didn't seem to care, since he was being locked up anyway. Shoving the violent deaths of Humans in the faces of the ones who cared about them could be elating. "We sunk his ship and they all drowned."

Snuzu's leg struck Arlong's face in an unexpectedly fast kick. Arlong groaned painfully. The other Fishmen wisely chose to remain silent in their hateful glares.

"Get them back to the ship, and we'll take care of the reward."

Snuzu and his assistant approached the villagers, knowing that there was shame involved. They all stopped what they were doing in setting up for the upcoming party – and Snuzu gave a bow to the villagers – apologies were necessary. The Marines had failed these people.

"Chichichi."

Well, speak of the devil…

Captain Nezumi approached the villagers with his men. They had come in and hadn't yet noticed Snuzu. Nezumi clearly had been on the losing end of a fight, and his arm was in cast. His men looked like they had seen better days, too.

Who or what had done that to them?

"What a lucky day indeed, who knew those disgusting Fishmen would have been defeated by a group of passing Pirates?"

Snuzu noticed the glare Gaara sent Nezumi's way. If killing someone by simply glaring at them was possible, this kid would have done it ten times over. Was Nezumi actually…having his men point their guns at the villagers?!

"So, all of that treasure, and Arlong's bounty, it belongs to me, now. You are going to get it for me."

"Um. Sir," one of his men spoke up, but Nezumi continued, ignoring his subordinate.

"You can't keep treasure that was gathered through illegal means, after all…and harboring Pirates? I don't think you want your list of crimes to pile up, now do you? I'm being quite gracious here, you know."

Nezumi failed to notice his men looking nervous. Snuzu slowly yawned, and several bubbles floated out of his nose; and drifted over Nezumi's men. When the bubbles popped, Nezumi finally glanced behind him to see what was going on. All of his men had dropped to the ground and were sleeping; with snot bubbles coming out of their noses.

"Hey!" Nezumi started, but then he realized who exactly had this ability. Nezumi turned around in time to get a fist delivered to his jaw. He fell to the ground and whimpered up at the Commodore.

The villagers and Pirates all stared in awe at how fast Snuzu had moved just then.

Snuzu looked furious. "Eight years, Nezumi. Eight years. You are responsible for their suffering, and you will pay for it. Get your worthless hide to my ship, now. You'll be lucky if you're not in Impel Down after this! Be thankful I don't stuff you into a cell with one of Arlong's men!"

Nezumi whimpered even more – and dammit, seeing Snuzu – who always moved so slowly and seemed to put no effort into anything and drawled more than he actually spoke – was terrifying. A wet spot formed on the rat-Captain's pants, and Snuzu only seemed to get angrier at Nezumi's lack of response.

"Why are you just sitting there?" Snuzu demanded, and he waved an arm. "Get going! If you try to run I'll break your legs and drag you back to Headquarters very literally!"

Nezumi squeaked when Snuzu's assistant Oki, grabbed Nezumi's arm and hauled him to his feet.

"March," was her simple demand.

Nezumi wanted to argue, but didn't dare.

"Tell the others to come here and carry these men as well." Snuzu ordered, and his assistant saluted. Once that was done, Snuzu's shoulders slouched and he was back to his usual, lazy-looking self. Turning back to the villagers, Snuzu bowed once again, and said, "I know that it doesn't mean much, but I apologize for the actions of my subordinate. This shouldn't have happened, and it really was an oversight on our part."

"Thank for apologizing…" Genzo said slowly, not really sure how to respond. Snuzu wasn't like any of the Marines he had dealt with in the past. Really, if it hadn't been for Belle'mere and now Snuzu – Genzo's opinion of the Marines would have been more than critical. "Knowing that we can at least have justice for Belle'mere and for our villages…that's a comfort."

Snuzu nodded. "I'll have some people come and help with any repairs."

Everyone looked shocked at that, and Snuzu yawned and sighed. There would be so much paperwork involved with this whole thing. The thought made him want to sleep.

His attention went to Luffy, who was laughing about something, and Snuzu excused himself before approaching the boy.

"Monkey D. Luffy." Snuzu said, getting his attention. Luffy immediately straightened as he looked up at Snuzu, but he held a stance like that of an animal ready to spring and run. "I know your grandfather," and the way Luffy stiffened and looked somewhat worried – Snuzu exhaled heavily. He'd much rather sleep than get involved with familial drama; especially that of the Monkey family. "He's worried about you, so make sure you write or call, alright?"

Luffy looked far too relieved that Snuzu wasn't dragging him back to Garp. He simply nodded and muttered something about promising that he would.

Snuzu stuffed his hands in his pockets, gave one last bow, and left.

"What was that about?" Sanji asked, as he pulled a cigarette from its pack.

"I…" Luffy started, but then said somewhat lamely, "I may have kinda sorta ran away from home…and my grandpa to become a Pirate."

"Okay…?" Usopp said. "I know some of us are an exception, but don't most people?"

"Grandpa doesn't want me to be a Pirate." Luffy said with a shrug. "He wants me to be a Marine, but that's so boring!"

"You'd make a terrible Marine." Zoro said with a cheeky grin, "Way too many problems with authority. You'd get in trouble for insubordination in your first week."

"Zoro's right!" Luffy agreed with a laugh.

In Luffy's mind, though – he knew he'd have to talk to his grandfather at some point, and it wasn't a conversation he was looking forward to. Oh, well.

"I'll leave today's problems to tomorrow's me." Luffy muttered to himself before turning his attention on Sanji and Pudding who were already gathering ingredients for a huge feast.

000000

That evening, there was much celebration to be had – even some mourning as well, but it was a bittersweet thing. It seemed that cuts and bruises wouldn't keep the Pirates from enjoying the festivities (much to the annoyance of Doctor Nako). The musicians were already playing; and the islanders had gathered their food – with Sanji and Pudding working together to make a celebratory feast.

Naruto sat on a rock by himself; far away from everyone else, staring at his broken sword. It had truly been his precious treasure – the first gift Zoro had given him. He had been so careful with it; always cleaning it and doing his best to maintain the blade – and it had still broken.

"Hey, brat,"

Zoro's voice startled Naruto, and he quickly sheathed the broken blade to hide it. Zoro sat down next to Naruto, and took a swig of alcohol. Naruto said nothing as he looked at the sword in his hands with a solemn expression.

Raising a brow, Zoro asked, "What's wrong?"

Naruto slowly pulled out the sword. "I'm sorry, Zoro-nii…I broke the sword with that blowfish guy…"

Some part of Naruto was scared that Zoro would be angry that he had allowed the sword to be broken – even irrational as it was. It had been his responsibility, and now… Distant memories of him getting in trouble for something getting broken when it had been in his care and even when it hadn't…a slap to the face…

Zoro raised his hand, and Naruto ducked his head, expecting a strike – but Zoro ruffled his hair. "That blade served you well."

Naruto glanced up at Zoro, a small smile was on his face. "Don't feel too bad on it, I've broken more than my fair share of blades."

"But…but you gave me this sword, Zoro-nii, 'ttebayou…" Naruto sniffed and wiped his face with his sleeve, trying not to cry.

Oh…that's what this was about…at least, Zoro thought he understood. "It was a good blade for the purposes it served, but not the strongest. I traded a pair of old blades for it. The only reason that sword lasted as long as it did was because you took such good care of it. In anyone else's hands, it would've broken a long time ago."

"Really?" Naruto smiled, somewhat.

"Yep. Now, you've gotta give such a loyal blade a proper funeral."

"How?"

"There's a graveyard over there," Zoro indicated a direction, "So we'll leave our blades there."

Naruto was the one to ask for directions – even though Zoro didn't think they needed to. He had been through the graveyard earlier that day. Four times, in fact.

The graveyard overlooked the ocean, facing east. Sitting near the cliff's edge, Zoro and Naruto both stuck their broken blades into the dirt.

"Fold your hands like this, and thank your blade for serving you." Zoro instructed, "For protecting you, and all that."

Naruto clapped his hands twice then put them together, and bowed forward. He thought about the first time Zoro had given him this sword. It was the first time anyone had given Naruto something that was truly his.

"Thank you for allowing me to use you," Naruto whispered to his former sword, "it was fun."

Once Zoro was done thanking his blades as well, the two made their way back to the town.

000

Genzo sighed heavily. Exhaustion, stiffness in his neck, back, and injuries, and utter relief. It made him feel old. Laughter and music surrounded him; sounds that hadn't been present in Cocoyashi for eight years.

Mavi was dancing around her father, and he clapped along to the music from where he sat with a leg in a cast. Chabo was smiling wide as he sat with his mother and several other friends – though, a few of their friends weren't present, as they had been killed and then buried earlier that day.

Today was just as much a memorial for the fallen as it was a celebration for their victory.

He had two bottles of sake with him as he made his way towards Belle'mere's grave.

When Genzo came upon the grave – an odd, egg-shaped thing the size of his fist was at its base. He sat down and inspected it. It was a pearly-white. While it was intricately carved, it was weird. It was like an egg-shaped orange? What was probably supposed to be the leaf looked more like a curly feather. Genzo put the thing back down, and took out the pinwheel from his hat and stuck it into the soil.

Opening both bottles of sake, Genzo slowly poured one on the grave and gently placed the bottle down at the cross's base once it was empty. Then, he started drinking the other one.

"You wouldn't believe it, Belle'mere…but we made it." Genzo took in a heavy sigh, and sniffed. "I haven't seen Nami smile – truly smile, since you…" he took a drink. "Those ragtag bunch of kids…you would've liked them."

For a while, Genzo sat in silence, listening to the music and joyful shouting off in the distance. He heard movement behind him, but didn't bother to turn around.

"Huh, what's this…?" a voice said, and Genzo turned to see Luffy, who had a piece of meat in each hand. "Oh, Pinwheel-ossan!"

"It's you…" Genzo waved Luffy over.

"A grave? Whose is it?" Luffy asked as he sat down next to Genzo.

"Nami and Nojiko's mother, Belle'mere."

Luffy hummed and gave a respectful bow to the simple wooden cross. He smiled, and pointed at the weird, orange-egg thing. "Looks like Gaara dropped this off."

"Oh?" Genzo wondered at the odd boy, and he was curious. Curious about where the kid had come from and about his uncle. "His art skill are…interesting, to say the least."

"Hm, he made this," Luffy indicated a leather bracelet on his wrist that had silvery-white and gray beads and a few tiny pink feathers.

"Listen, Luffy…" Genzo was very serious, and sake had given him some decent liquid courage. "Nami's happy, being with you guys. But understand something; if you ever take away her smile, I'll kill you myself."

Honestly, threatening the guy who was strong enough to beat the guy who had kicked his ass probably wasn't one of Genzo's better ideas. But Luffy looked at him, blinked a few times, and then laughed. It wasn't mocking or cruel in any way. It was a mirthful sound.

"Don't worry, I won't." Luffy promised, "Nami is nakama."

It was truly a relief to hear that. Plus, Luffy put so much weight into how he said the word that Genzo honestly wondered if he should be worried about anyone who threatened Luffy's nakama. Things would be okay.

0000

Nami was making her way around the village, finding members of her crew – Zoro was out-drinking everyone; Sanji was still preparing mountains of food; Gaara was making art for the villagers from the rubble of Arlong Park and out of that Pearl guy's armor; Naruto was with Usopp – Usopp was telling some tall tale about impossible feats and Naruto was transforming into the various characters of the stories, much to the entertainment of the observers.

Pudding was serving delectable-looking desserts when Nami approached her.

"Hey, Pudding." Nami greeted. "I just wanted to thank you, you know, for fighting for all of us and finding the treasure."

"Of course!" Pudding responded with a smile as she gracefully handed Nami a delectable-looking dessert. "What are love-rivals for?"

Not expecting that response, all Nami could say was, "Eh?"

Pudding winked at her, "I couldn't very well show the men which of us is the better woman without my competition, right?"

"C-competition? What competition?"

"For the hearts of the men, silly!" Pudding expertly balanced the tray on one hand as she clenched her other hand into a fist looking dreamy-eyed. "The way to a man's heart is through his stomach – but, I'm already way ahead of you with my recipes made with my upmost passionate love."

"Uh…okay?"

"You only said those mean things as a way to establish your position and role, but you're really going to have to step up your game. A cute smile is only going to get you so far as a hinedere, though you aren't a very good one."

"Wha…" Recalling what she had said earlier, Nami openly cringed, "I'm sorry for what I said…But really, I'm not competing with you."

"No need to apologize, Nami-chan. Love and jealousy makes us do and say things we don't always mean." Pudding gave Nami a scrutinizing look. "Don't think I'll let my guard down any time soon, love-rival!"

Seriously?! Nami groaned, reluctantly accepting that Pudding thought that they were competing or whatever. And what was with that 'dere' nonsense?

"Out of curiosity," Nami turned back to Pudding and pointed at her own forehead as she asked, "How did you do that er, stringy thing with your eye?"

"I've been able to do it since I was a child." Pudding tilted her head, "I was around eight when I discovered it by accident…"

"By accident? Wait. So it's not a Devil Fruit? How is that possible?!"

"Nope!" Pudding grinned. "I could never eat a Devil Fruit. It's just a super special power, I guess."

"Well, you're from the Three-Eye Tribe, right? Can they do the same thing?"

Pudding's smile fell. "I don't know…I mean…"

Noticing Pudding's discomfort, Nami quickly changed the subject, "Well, with the treasure and what we got for Arlong's bounty, our villages can finally begin to rebuild. And with the Marine's help, too! So when we eventually make our way back here, just imagine what it'll look like!"

More than thankful for the subject change, awkwardly as it was done, Pudding agreed. "I'm sure it will be beautiful, Nami-chan."

Luffy patted his belly contentedly. He'd wait just a bit longer for his food to settle before he started eating some dessert. Luffy approached Zoro, who had several sake bottles around him, and he still didn't look drunk. But the other partygoers were already passed out around him.

Zoro greeted Luffy with a nod, and Luffy sat next to him.

"Your fight was pretty cool, today." Luffy said after a moment. "I wish I could've seen all of it!"

"The way you beat Arlong was pretty impressive." Zoro laughed as he added, "Imagine being taken out by an attack with 'pinwheel' in the name!"

"I guess." Luffy shrugged. "But you know, your attacks weren't that smooth."

"Hmm?" Feeling insulted Zoro sat up straighter, he slightly slurred as he asked, "What'dya mean? My swordsmanship was fine."

"Oh, I'm not talking about the swords. I don't know anything about that," Luffy shrugged. "I'm talking about that "ghosting" thing you do sometimes. It's not as smooth as it could be."

Zoro blinked dumbly. "Huh?"

"I knew I recognized it…I met someone before, who does that ghosting thing."

Zoro now was really paying attention to what Luffy was saying. "You met a Kūhaku?"

"Oh, is that what you're called? That's not the name he used. You wouldn't happen to know someone named Touma, would you?"

"I've never met anyone else like me…I was an orphan." Zoro said, "The Kūhaku – the Clan that I'm from, have a long history. I'll tell you sometime."

"Aww…" Luffy muttered in disappointment. "I wanna hear it now, though."

"Don't feel like it…so…Touma? What's he like?"

"Oh, he's awesome! You really remind me of him." Luffy said with a laugh. "He has silver eyes, just like you do."

So…there were Kūhaku in East Blue? Well, it shouldn't really be surprising, considering how many there had been before they had left the Elemental Nations.

[…]

**Flashback: East Blue; Dawn Island, Seven Years Ago **

:::

"What're you two kids doin'?"

"Running away!" Luffy said cheerfully.

"From what?" the man asked, likely not concerned because of Luffy's too-upbeat attitude.

Just then, the Mountain Lord burst out of the trees with a furious snarl, causing the man's jaw to drop and his eyes to widen.

"From that!" Ace shouted, getting ready to grab Luffy and run – and if the poor bastard got caught, then he'd be a distraction so that they could get away.

That was when something happened: the stranger grabbed both boys; the world seemed to slide around them as they stood still, and just like that; they were several feet away from where they had been.

The Mountain Lord tore up grass and earth with its sharp claws as it charged at the three Humans. Ace and Luffy could only stare in awe at the man and whatever that weird trick had been. The stranger was standing in front of them with a protective stance; rapier drawn. The Mountain Lord let out a roar.

The man flicked the rapier around in the air in front of him several times before he crouched slightly and pushed one foot back. The air around him began to change; thin, silvery-white trails of energy circled around him forming a ball-shape. Then – he vanished.

The Mountain Lord leapt into the air, teeth and claws drawn. Suddenly, bursts of those silvery-white trails shot out of the tiger – as if it were being cut from the inside out. The Mountain Lord then split apart into several finely cut pieces; all of which fell to the ground a few feet from Luffy and Ace.

The stranger stood several feet away, behind the Lord. He flicked his rapier, then sheathed it, all in one smooth motion.

Ace slowly got up and looked at the pieces.

"There's no blood…" somehow, it had been cut so cleanly that the bothersome floor rug hadn't even bled.

"That was amazing!" Luffy beamed as he clung to the man's leg. "You did that disappearing trick and that sword was all, whoooosh, whoosh, slash!"

"Yeah, yeah…it was awesome," the stranger said, clearly only trying to appease Luffy and loosen his grip around him. Which was difficult, considering Luffy had wrapped his arms around him several times. The man sighed, and shifted his weight – and within seconds he was standing next to Luffy, free of his limbs.

"Was that…" Ace stared. "Who the hell are you? Is that ability from a Devil Fruit like Luffy?"

"No-one in partic'lar." The man frowned for a moment. "I couldn't eat a Devil Fruit. Anyway, you two alright?"

"Yeah!" Luffy was beaming up at him. "That was the coolest thing ever! I can't wait to tell Dadan and the others about you!

"Okay. Where are we?" the man asked as he glanced around. "I was in the forest, bu'things look so different for some reason…these kinds of trees aren't s'ppose to be here…"

"Um, Mt. Columbo." Ace answered.

"What? Where's that?"

"East Blue…Dawn Island… Goa Kingdom…" Ace answered slowly, as if the man were a simpleton. With every reveal of their location that Ace gave, the stranger's expression clearly was becoming more and more confused.

"But that donnit make sense! I was on Bargontho Island in the Grand Line…" the stranger paused for a moment as he frowned thoughtfully again. "How'd I end up here?"

"What, did you get lost?" Ace asked incredulously. "How is that even possible?!"

The man scowled – well, sort of pouted. "I donnit get lost." He muttered darkly, "Not'that much, anyway…"

He looked around for a bit then asked, "Is there a Den-Den Mushi I can use?"

"In town there is." Ace replied.

He helped them gather up their kill, and they made their way towards Goa – with an excitedly chattering Luffy clinging to the man the entire time.

They stopped outside the wall that separated Goa from the plebeians of the island, and the man nodded. "I'll be right back."

With that, he simply vanished from sight. Ace and Luffy's jaws dropped. Luffy looked ready to hyperventilate from excitement.

"I can't believe we're actually waiting for him…" Ace griped.

"He's so cool…!" At least Luffy was happy.

0000

The man would have used a payphone, but he didn't want to risk someone listening in on his conversation. The best place to make a phone call in circumstances such as this was a place that no-one would be able to listen in. Glancing up at the mansions; seriously, did people really need to live in such oversized houses?

Focusing on a particular house, he closed his eyes for a moment then opened them. The world was blue and gray, and his senses reached out. No-one was in this part of the house, and at this time of night the servants were asleep. There were guards, but none of them would be expecting someone to walk in without even using the door or even a window.

Stepping forward, he was now inside the mansion. Finding a study, and a Den-Den Mushi was fairly easy – but dammit, the doors kept switching around! This place had some pretty serious security…he began focusing his chakra, linking it to the wall and doorways around him to mark where he had been.

Finally, he found what he was looking for.

Dialing the desired number, the man leaned on the table as he waited. Two rings, and a somewhat wary, "Hello?" answered.

"Uh, it's me…Touma…"

"Touma?! Where the hell are you? You suddenly up and disappeared from Bargontho, and Karasu and Betty are freaking out! What happened?!"

"I…I actu'lly have no idea…" Touma admitted. "I was walkin' through the forest when I found myself in a place in East Blue—"

"EAST BLUE!" the incredulous voice screeched.

"OI! Not so loud, dumbass! I'm in someone's house!" Touma shouted back, and he slapped his forehead when he realized he had just done the thing he'd been admonishing someone else for. He listened, but couldn't hear anyone coming to inspect the noise. Touma used Observation to stay alert and so he could listen to the person on the other side of the call.

"How are you in East Blue?! Where in East Blue?"

"Uh…Dawn Island, Goa Kingdom."

"Well, shit."

"Look, it's no'that bigga deal. I'll just make my way there. I'll hitch a ride—"

"NO!" the other person shouted. In fact, it sounded like more than one voice had protested his suggestion.

"Let's put it like this: Dragon-sama trusts you with money; he trusts you to finish any given task; he trusts you with his life. But the one thing he absolutely won't trust you on is to capably find your way back to base."

Touma scowled and narrowed his eyes. "I donnit get loss'that bad…"

"You are literally on the other side of the Grand Line in East Blue!" Dragon's voice shouted from somewhere in the background. The snail's face looked entirely incensed.

Touma cringed at the volume, and still no-one came, thank the gods.

"Listen," the Den-Den Mushi's face morphed to that of Dragon's. "After the incident at Bastille Wolf Port, the Marines are seriously cracking down on security. Pirate ships are a given, but reports say they're going after merchant and fishing ships. We've no choice but to lay low and stay out of East Blue for a while."

"Eh? How long, Boss?"

"It could be a year-and-a-half, hell, even two years before we can risk entering East Blue again. So just…try not to get lost. Again. We'll come to you."

"…Fine." Touma conceded. "I'll see you."

With that, Touma hung up. He easily slipped out of the house with no-one being the wiser. The two boys flinched when he suddenly appeared next to them.

The older of the two scowled in irritation, while the younger's eyes sparkled enough they could have lit their way back. Touma sighed, knowing that he would be here awhile. He might as well settle down for a bit until he could be picked up.

"Well, I called my boss, and it seems I'm gonna havta wait. I'll need a place to stay…d'ya know where—"

"You could stay with us!" Luffy offered, much to Ace's aggravation. Even though the guy had saved their lives, there was no way Gramps would like this guy anywhere near him and Luffy for long periods of time. That left Dadan… "I know the perfect place!"

"Since I'm gonna be stayin' for a bit, I s'ppose I should prop'ly intraduce myself." Taking off his mask, silver eyes glinted even in the dull moonlight. "Kusanagi Touma."

"I'm Monkey D. Luffy!"

"Portgas D. Ace."

Touma's jaw dropped and his eyes widened. "Did…did you just say Monkey and Portgas?!"

"What's it to you?!" Ace demanded, quickly standing in front of Luffy protectively. He seriously didn't think he could do anything against the guy, but he would make killing them extremely difficult and very unpleasant.

"No, no…just…unesspected s'all…" Touma muttered. "What're the chances, though…?"

Ace thought that Touma's muttering was weird. Everything about the guy was weird. And his eyes were damn creepy.

They walked in silence most of the way. It seemed that Touma had a habit of drifting off in any random direction on a whim.

"Oi, what the hell?!" Ace finally fumed after the eighth time. "I swear, you're worse than Luffy at paying attention!"

"Ha, ha, Ace is right!" Luffy laughed.

"Oi, oi. Your direc'tions were confusin' kid."

Ace scowled. The absolute nerve! "How did you not wander off when we were walking earlier?"

Touma shrugged, but he scowled back at Ace. "I donnit get lost, kid."

"Says the idiot who got lost!"

By now, they had reached the Mountain Bandits' hideout and well, Dadan was none too happy about having another person there – and she let it be known.

"What is this?! Why are you here?!"

"Just hav'ta stay for a while, Dadan-san, just until my allies are able to come get me, ehhh two years from now. At most." Touma said with a shrug.

"TWO YEARS?!" Dadan screeched, but was ignored as Touma continued easily,

"If yer Bandits, I'll more'n happily steal what'ver you like – within reason." Touma put a hand on his saber, "I'll also make an acception for killin' someone – if only I have to. I'll make that determ'nation on my own."

Dadan blinked a few times. "Oh, well…um, okay."

Touma smiled. "Glad we could come to an agreement!"

As they sat around eating tiger meat, vegetables, and rice, Touma turned his attention to the boys.

"So, Luffy-kun, Ace-kun, if I may ask…whadd'ya wanna do when you grow up?" there was a smirk on his face along with a side of curiosity, "Marines? Or're you content on stayin' on this island?"

"Hell, no!" Ace said as if Touma actually suggested he become a Marine. "I'll be a Pirate, I don't care what Gramps says! And if I find One Piece along the way, that's fine with me!"

"I'll become the Pirate King!" Luffy declared resolutely, raising a fist nearly to the ceiling.

Touma's smirk widened for a moment before he laughed. "Such lofty goals you two have! I like it!"

"I'm gonna set out in a few years, when I'm seventeen." Ace said, "I've been planning my escape from this place for a long time."

"Yeah!" Luffy nodded, "And when I'm seventeen, I'll be leaving, too!"

"You'll just have to sneak passed Garp…" Magra's expression didn't exactly convey the success of that particular venture.

Touma looked thoughtful. "You mean Monkey D. Garp?"

"Yeah, you have the misfortune of knowing him?" Ace asked.

"I know of him." Touma answered. "What're his grandkids doin' hangin' out with Mountain Bandits, though? No 'ffence."

"Garp is willing to overlook our extracurricular activities as long as we look after Ace-kun and Luffy-kun." Dogra said with a shrug. "Along with staying out of certain parts of Goa and away from the Nobles."

"And if we happen to take care of a few rival gangs, then all the better for him." Dadan said, "And that old bastard leaves me the hell alone! Hopefully he won't be dropping off any more brats like Ace, here!"

"Stupid hag…" Ace muttered, making sure Dadan heard it.

"You mean he's here. As in on this island." Touma looked uncomfortable.

"Well, yeah!" Luffy complained. "He stops in here every few months and tries to convince me 'n Ace to be Marines! He threw me into a cave! A cave!"

"Listen, if Garp comes here, I'm jus' 'nother of your recruits…I really donnit wanna get caught by him."

Dadan could tell how serious he was. She took a puff of her cigarette. "How bad?" When Touma glanced at her, Dandan couldn't help but feel unnerved by his silver eyes. "Like, is this getting a slap on the wrist bad, or arrested and thrown into Impel Down, bad?"

"Either Impel Down or public execution."

Dadan massaged her temple. "If you get caught, I'm not gonna vouch for you."

Touma bowed his head. "Understood, thank you."

He took a swig of alcohol, ignoring how Ace and Luffy were glancing between the adults questioningly. Touma then looked at the boys, and asked, "How badly do'ya wanna be Pirates?"

It was a weird question.

"More than anything." Ace said. "It was our other brother's dream to become a Pirate and be free…so I'm gonna do it for the both of us!"

"I wanna be the Pirate King 'cuz someone like that is strong, and free, and doesn't have to follow anyone's rules!" Luffy was resolute.

Touma smirked in approval. He leaned towards the boys and with a "come here" motion of his hand, indicated that they do the same. "Tell me; have either o'you ever heard of Haki?"

***000***

Present Day:

Nezumi wasn't having a good day. It had been a miserable couple of days, actually. He and his men ended up having to share the brig (but thankfully not the cells) with the Arlong Pirates. The smell of fish clung to the Humans. As for the Fishmen, Humans had a body odor that was the equivalent of wet garbage that had been stuck in a ditch for a week.

Snuzu's assistant, Captain Oki, walked in and simply pointed a manicured finger at Nezumi. "I'm gonna let you out for a bit. You try anything, I have permission to break your legs." A weirdly happy smile was on her lilac-tinted lips. "So, please do feel free to try something."

Nezumi shivered, and he was marched towards Snuzu's office with Oki's vice-grip on his arm. Upon entering Snuzu's quarters, the first thing Nezumi noticed about him was that the Commodore was slouched back in his chair with his feet up on the desk. Snuzu appeared to be dozing, and none-too gently, Oki shoved Nezumi into a chair.

"Bitch." Nezumi muttered under his breath. He honestly didn't intend for Oki to hear him, but she slowly turned to glare flatly at him.

Oki raised a brow, and Nezumi quickly lowered his head. With practiced ease, she simply walked over to Snuzu's side and poked him, before taking her place at his right.

Snuzu blinked a few times, yawned, and then focused on the man who was growing increasingly nervous. He didn't say anything, at first. Gathering his thoughts, Snuzu finally said,

"I've written a report and sent it to Headquarters, detailing exactly what you've done. I've been given permission to see to your punishment as I see fit."

Nezumi wondered if begging would do any good.

"Your actions, or lack thereof, led to the deaths of hundreds; civilians and Marine alike. Because you didn't have a hand in what Arlong did directly, you won't be held responsible…" Snuzu yawned, and looked ready to sleep again. Oki poked his shoulder, "…for the events at the Conomi Islands…but you are no longer a member of the Marines. You're blacklisted."

Nezumi's jaw dropped, and he looked ready to argue. "But…" He wisely remained quiet when Oki fixed him with a stern glare.

"We're dropping you off at the next island, and I'll give you enough funds to last a few months."

Nezumi figured he should be thankful for at least that much. But he clenched his fists and scowled at the floor. Snuzu was on his list of least favorite people.

"One last thing," Snuzu drawled, and he shoved the Den-Den Mushi on his desk closer to Nezumi. "I'll allow you a phone call. Supervised, obviously. But if there's someone in the Navy that you want to make contact with for assistance in getting home or a new…(yaaawwwnnn)…job – that's not with the Navy, there's no way you'll be able to do that on an unsecured line."

Within the Navy, high-ranking officials had connections that mattered; whether it was through the World Government or had friends in high places with Nobles and civilians alike. Giving Nezumi the chance to at least still make a living was being very gracious on Snuzu's part.

Nezumi didn't like having either Snuzu or Oki there, but what choice did he have? Dialing the number, and a few rings later, Brannew picked up on the other end.

"Hello?"

"Commander Brannew? It's Cap-Nezumi…"

"Nezumi?" there was a sort of sigh. "I've heard the news. Are you calling about a referral?"

"Well-I...there's a kid who can manipulate sand. He seems really dangerous, and probably should get a bounty put on him, sooner, rather than later…"

The sigh was more audible this time. "Nezu…you aren't a Marine Captain anymore. You can't put a bounty on anyone. Plus, there's the fact you have little to no credibility after this whole stunt you pulled."

"Don't "Nezu" me!" Nezumi started, before he trailed off and slumped in defeat. Oki snorted and rolled her eyes. "…Yes, sir…I'll take the referral, Sir."

"Good choice. Now, I know someone on Varity Island in Roshi Village, so you can get a job with him…"

Nezumi was dropped off on an island with a change of clothes – his uniform was long-gone by now – an extra set of clothes, and a bag with a few thousand bellies.

"Make it count," Captain Oki said, as she handed him his things.

Nezumi sat on the docks until the ship had disappeared over the horizon. He cursed the Pirates, and especially that of Gaara – who in his opinion, was the cause of all his current troubles. All of his hard work over the years had been wasted in one day.

000

Back on the ship, Captain Oki ordered former Captain Nezumi's men out onto the deck. She slammed her club down onto the deck, getting their attention. But it was also to wake up Snuzu, who had fallen asleep on his feet.

"Huh?" he muttered.

"Listen to your new commander, scum!" Oki shouted, and then she pointedly looked to the Commodore – who looked ready to sleep again.

Snuzu yawned, and stuffed his hands into his pockets. "Well, Captain Nezumi has been dishonorably discharged. As for all of you… (yyyaaawwwnnnn) …because you followed his orders in endangering and stealing from civilians for financial gain, and didn't assist the Conomi Islands in their time of need…for your inaction…all of you are now the equivalent of cabin boys for the next three years. You also won't be eligible for promotion for…" Snuzu started to fall asleep again, but was awoken by Oki, "…another three years."

Sighing at all of these annoyances, Snuzu added, "That includes pay – which will be reduced to that of a new recruit's. You're also losing your vacation time. It's annoying, but you'll all be sent to assist the Conomi Islands in rebuilding, so we're sailing back that way once we drop off the Fishmen and resupply. I don't feel like telling you the consequences you'll suffer if you try to shirk your responsibilities, but know that you won't like it – and you'll wish you were with the Fishmen."

The Marines who had formerly served under Nezumi all knew how lucky and grateful they should be. This punishment was light compared to what others had received, so they saluted. The men shivered under Oki's gaze, before she scoffed.

"Dismissed."

0000

Conomi Islands; Cocoyashi – Three Days after Arlong's defeat:

Nami was gathering her things, finally setting off to accomplish her dream. Her shoulder was slightly tender from its new tattoo. There were books from her childhood; ones about topography, navigation, and more.

"I'm leaving now, Belle'mere-san…" Nami whispered. "You would have liked the people in my crew…" She would have teased Naruto and Gaara; would have threatened Luffy to take care of her precious daughter with a smile on her face; would have traded recipes with Sanji and Pudding; would have had a shooting match with Usopp; would have drunk herself silly next to Zoro. Nami sighed and smiled. "Thank you, Belle'mere-san."

As she exited her home, Nami tripped. For a brief moment – Nami could've sworn – she was pushed. That she felt a warm hand on her back, and that there was the smell of cigarettes and oranges. Nami turned around to look behind her, feeling a sense of peace and satisfaction.

"Nami?"

Nami glanced down at Gaara, who was looking up at her curiously. His eyes landed on her throat, where the sunlight glinted off of the abstract orange charm that she now wore on a cord around her neck.

"Looks good doesn't it?" Nami asked, pointing at the charm. "I really like it."

Gaara suddenly looked away from her and muttered, "I came to help you carry your things."

In spite of his tone and words, there was a pleased smile on the corner of Gaara's lips. Nami noticed, and had to smile herself.

Nami didn't object to the help, and Gaara's sand made carrying things easier. A crowd had gathered to see her off, and there were tears and well-wishes called out as she passed. At the dock, Nami and Nojiko hugged each other tightly, as if both would disappear if the other let go.

"Goodbye, Nami." Nojiko whispered.

"I'll write to you." Nami promised.

Gaara lifted Nami onto their ship with his sand, and Nami waved goodbye, smiling joyfully. And yes, she was crying. But she quickly wiped her tears away, and called out,

"Goodbye, everyone! I'm off!"

Then, Nami took her spot as Navigator and they were finally leaving.

The residents of Cocoyashi whooped and cheered, while Spotty let out a bellow, and said farewell in his own way.

"Goodbye, Spotty!" various members of the Straw-Hats called out, and the sea-cow mooed and flapped its fins.

It was kind of strange to Nami that Conomi now had a resident sea monster that was basically the island's pet. Apparently, Mohmoo – now dubbed "Spotty", had decided to stay since Pudding had fed him various desserts that had fish and oranges as the primary ingredients.

How Pudding had managed that, Nami wasn't going to ask.

It seemed that Spotty had also liked the meat pies that one of the Cocoyashi residents prepared, and in spite of what he had done to Gosa, the sea cow was growing on the locals. He actually had a pretty sweet personality once people got passed his size and incredible appetite.

0000

After making sure that everyone was fed and watered, Sanji settled down, sitting next to Pudding as she read a book. There was a small smile on her lips and light blush colored her cheeks. The sunlight hit her just right; accentuating the natural highlights in her hair.

Nami-swan was enjoying the food he and Pudding had prepared – and it was lovely to see Nami genuinely enjoying the food – the way she smiled and closed her eyes for a few bliss-filled seconds as she popped fruit tarts into her mouth – or the orange-glazed meatballs that made her give out satisfied hums.

Just then, a shout sounded from the base of the crow's nest, and that stupid cactus-head was glaring at Naruto – Naruto was smirking at him and laughing. Sanji wondered what had happened, and he somewhat regretted missing what had irritated Zoro so much. Zoro suddenly reached out and smacked Naruto over the head with a fist. Something uncomfortable (chillingly familiar) rose up in Sanji – it made him want to go pummel that cactus-head until he was black-and-blue because who would treat their own brother – even if they weren't related by blood – so cruelly?

Naruto reached out and began pulling at Zoro's face, and they pushed at each other with Naruto using colorful language that honestly – made Sanji raise a curly brow. Zoro was cursing at Naruto as well, and threatening to "tie him up and make him walk beside the ship."

"Gaara! Tell Zoro-nii he's mean!" Naruto demanded as he pointed at Zoro.

"Why would I do that? Zoro-nii's the coolest." Gaara said very seriously, and Zoro smirked victoriously.

"Gah! Because he's being a stingy jerk, 'ttebayou!"

Gaara glanced up from his own food and looked at his brothers. "I don't really care."

"Traitor!" Naruto declared. Naruto then quickly turned on Zoro.

Zoro began laughing as he pushed Naruto away and held him back with his foot and he smirked while holding the plate of meatballs that was meant to be shared between the three of them out of Naruto's reach.

"Hmm-mm, so good!" Zoro dramatically said as he savored a meatball. All of this was over the meatballs? Sanji wondered if he should have made more – even though there was rice and veggies, along with what tarts Pudding had made.

Naruto looked about ready to burst in his frustration - when the plate was handed to him. Zoro took one more meatball for himself; at that moment, Sanji was perplexed. For a few brief seconds, Zoro's expression was different. He had a teasing smile on his face and the usual scowl was gone. This wasn't a smirk – it was a genuine expression of amusement that held no malice.

Naruto accepted the plate although he was still scowling, and he pouted as Zoro ruffled his hair and said with a laugh, "Damn brat."

Naruto's response was, "Asshole."

Just like that, the expression was gone and Zoro guzzled his sake. Rolling his eyes, Naruto put several of the meatballs onto his own plate before handing the plate back to Zoro.

"Make sure you eat all that, okay, Zoro-nii?"

"Tch, whatever, brat." Zoro replied as he ate another meatball. "You're still growing, ya'know."

"You can't always live on sake or "train", Zoro-nii." Gaara said very pointedly around a mouthful of food.

Zoro rolled his eyes in response.

Sanji had no idea what had just transpired. It was a surreal scene. His birth family – he knew had been cruel; and life with Zeff had been anything but normal. What was considered "normal" anyway?

Some minutes later, Gaara was then next to Zoro and was showing him something that he had carved while he was eating. From where he was, Sanji couldn't exactly tell what it was; but it looked, quite frankly, terrible. The thing was a bit bigger than Sanji's fist and had strange protrusions sticking out of it. The second carving looked…well, like a mish-mash of pieces. But there was a different affectionate expression again as Zoro held the carving ups and he smiled as he was talking to Gaara – Sanji felt a mild twinge in his chest because – that was how his mother had looked at him whenever he brought her food.

Gaara looked particularly pleased as he rocked on his feet. Sanji then looked at the bracelet on Zoro's wrist with its weird looking charms. No wonder he wore that gaudy thing.

Sanji had noticed the weird charm Nami was wearing as well. She often toyed with it in her delicate fingers whenever she was looking over the map or reading. Gaara must have given her that thing, too.

The expression disappeared again as Zoro handed Gaara back his carving, and Gaara happily ran towards the cabin while Naruto followed after him, excitedly shouting about a fox? They called out to Usopp as well, and within minutes Luffy somehow got involved too and all of them disappeared into the cabin.

It was a strange thing, Sanji figured. Did the cactus-head even realize how he looked at those two? Sanji's own siblings had unchanging, smiling faces that reveled in their cruelties. Sanji walked over to collect the dirty dishes.

When Zoro glanced up at him as he approached, Sanji commented, "You really care about those two."

Zoro snorted. "Those brats are far too troublesome for their own good. They'll make you want to walk the plank of your own free will."

"Aww, you're such a caring older brother," Sanji teased. "Wouldn't have expected it from the likes of you."

Zoro bristled. "And what's that supposed to mean?!"

Sanji shrugged. "Well…you have actual substance beyond just drinking and playing with swords. You have a heart beneath that angry, prickly, exterior."

"I'll skewer you, you half-rate cook!"

There was some inelegant squabbling and insults before Nami shouted at the two to behave – and Sanji would never ignore a woman's calls.

So he grabbed the dirty dishes and walked away – but not before Zoro flipped him the bird. Sanji responded by grinning triumphantly just to annoy Zoro, and flipping the bird right back before he turned on his heel and went to the kitchen.

Sanji wondered how they had come under Zoro's care. He wouldn't have pegged Zoro as the responsible type to care for two kids. It wasn't any of his business, but there was certainly a story there. He'd certainly ask at some point in time.

When Sanji entered the kitchen, he saw Luffy, Usopp, Naruto, and Gaara, all huddled around the table, painting those strange figurines Gaara had made.

One looked like a fat-tailed gecko with four bulging eyes, and the other…was it a turkey with horns? Maybe a peacock?

Sanji shrugged. It wasn't like he was an art critic.

0000

Some hours later, everyone but Luffy was gathered out on the deck enjoying the mid-afternoon breeze that was pushing their ship along.

"Hey, everyone!" Luffy called out, getting his crew's attention. Luffy proudly held up the flag he had painstakingly been working on for the past several hours. No-one said anything right away, as they stared at the design on the flag. "Well, whaddya think?"

"Is that supposed to be our Jolly Rodger?" an incredulous Nami asked.

"Yeah!" Luffy enthusiastically answered.

"It's…it's actually not that bad." Zoro said, and he shrugged in a 'what?' motion at the stares being sent his way by Usopp, Sanji, and the girls.

"I know these things are supposed to strike fear into people's hearts, but it'll strike fear in people for all the wrong reasons…" Usopp said.

"That's a good thing, right?" Naruto asked. "Luffy's art is just like Gaara's!"

"I really like it, Captain." Gaara genuinely praised. Of course, out of all of them, he'd be the one to like it.

"Shishishishi, thanks, Gaara!"

"Um…" Usopp raised his hand, "Maybe…I should try? Like, use your design as a base."

Luffy shrugged. "Okay."

Usopp sat back from his work, and now, a smiling skull with a straw hat adorned the black material. He was proud of himself as the other crewmembers exclaimed and praised his skill.

"That's great, Usopp!" Luffy practically bounced from where he was sitting. "Can you paint that on the sail?"

"Sure!"

Usopp had unexpected but appreciated help in the form of the younger Roronoa Brothers – who could stick to Merry with their feet and hands with no need for a ladder. The two started competing on how fast they could paint their section, and Usopp ended up being pulled into it too.

"You kids stand no chance! I'm a champion painter throughout the Grand Line!"

"Really? That's amazing, Usopp, 'ttebayou!"

"How can you be a champion painter if you've never been to the Grand Line?"

Usopp balked a little, and glanced up at Gaara, who looked very genuine with his question, and wasn't teasing at all.

Usopp quickly adjusted his story to say that he was known throughout the Grand Line, as his reputation preceded him.

"Oh. That makes sense."

Down on the deck, the others were watching in curiosity and amazement.

"That's amazing!" Luffy couldn't help but stare. "How do you guys do that by the way?"

"Chakra." Zoro said, "It was how we walked on water before."

"Chakra." Nami looked incredulous. "Like that spiritual energy stuff?"

Though, her eyes widened when Zoro lifted up his hand and it started glowing with chakra.

"Its energy," Zoro started saying, but he was cut off when Pudding was suddenly in his face.

"That's what that stuff is?" she asked, her nose inches away from his.

"Uh…yeah?" Zoro answered as he slowly tried to pull away.

Pudding thrust her hand in front of Zoro, and it started to glow…with chakra. Zoro was gaping at her now.

"I've been able to do this since I was a child, but...I had no idea I could use it like you do!" Pudding looked hopeful. "Would you mind teaching me? I'll be a very good student." Pudding's cheeks colored as she added, "And if I mess up, feel free to scold me as you see fit."

"Uh…sure…but we probably shouldn't practice on the ship." Thankfully, Pudding had sat back, giving Zoro space to sit up again. "Expelling too much chakra into a surface can cause it to explode. Naruto's injured people by doing that, and it's how I've broken my opponents' swords."

Pudding smile could be described as chilling when she said, "Oh, really? That is very interesting."

"There are some Jutsu I think we can practice…it'll be easier if we find your element, though."

"How do we do that?" Pudding asked.

"Chakra Induction Paper," Zoro answered. "I'm pretty sure we have some somewhere. Basically, you flush chakra into it, and it'll have a certain reaction depending on the element."

"Oh…that's so cool~" Luffy was bouncing in his seat. "Can I try?"

"Uh…I don't think you have chakra." Zoro said awkwardly, scratching the back of his head. Luffy gave Zoro his best puppy-dog look. "…I'll get some for you too, Luffy."

Zoro went to find the paper. Not long after, Zoro found that the paper had been stuffed into the back of a dresser drawer underneath underwear and miscellaneous junk he and the boys had accumulated over time. Its corners were bent and wrinkled, and it appeared that Naruto had used it as a flipbook.

Zoro grabbed three sheets, and presented one to Pudding and one to a very excited Luffy.

"Channel your chakra into it, like this," Zoro demonstrated, and his sheet became soaking wet before tearing in half seconds later. "This means I have both Water and Wind affinity. Now you."

Luffy focused on the paper, but nothing happened. He groaned and gritted his teeth in determination, trying to get the paper to respond. Luffy sat there, with his tongue sticking out in concentration.

Pudding focused, and seconds later, her sheet wrinkled for a moment before it burst into flame and turned into ash.

"Lightning and Fire affinity, that's really good." Zoro commented, not caring to notice Pudding blush.

"Lightning and Fire? That's perfect." Pudding leaned in close to Zoro. "Must be because of all my passion for the men in my life."

"I'll get some books and scrolls you can look at…" Zoro said distractedly, thinking of what they had on hand.

Pudding pouted at Zoro's obliviousness.

Luffy groaned when his paper still wouldn't do anything.

"I wouldn't bother with him too much, Pudding-chan." Sanji advised. "Getting through that thick head of his is like trying to crack a coconut with a butter knife. A hopeless endeavor, really."

Sanji smirked when Zoro reacted.

"Go fuck yourself sideways, you half-rate cook!"

"Half-rate?!" Sanji rolled his eyes and took a drag. "As if, you half-witted moss-for-brains."

The two of them glare at each other intensely; the tension between them is palpable. Those who actually cared to look at what was going on could see the building sparks. Suddenly, the two are at each other's throats; cursing the other as Sanji kicked at the Swordsman and Zoro tried to cut the Chef.

Nami sighed and called out to Sanji that she was thirsty for a cold beverage.

Just like that, it seemed a switch was flipped and Sanji actually skipped to the kitchen to make Nami a drink; while Zoro went on his original quest for reading materials for Pudding as if he hadn't been fighting with Sanji just seconds earlier.

Nami sweat-dropped when she noticed Pudding glaring at her, pouting.

"What?"

"Humph." Pudding crossed her arms and focused on the ocean instead.

Nami was confused.

0000

Once the sail was done, Gaara settled down with his gourd and went to work. Barely half an hour later, Gaara inspected his gourd, and the straw-hat-wearing skull that now adorned it. Now, people would know where he belonged.

"I see an island, 'ttebayou!"

"That's Loguetown!" Nami announced. "That means we're close to the Grand Line. This place is a major stopping point for Pirates."

"Let's go! Let's go!" Luffy was ecstatic. "That's where Rodger was executed – where everything started!"

"Well…we do need to get some supplies…" Pudding said, making a mental list. "We have enough money that we'll be able to get good quality ingredients and clothing for when we come across a winter island."

"We should also get some stuff for Merry's upkeep." Usopp said.

"I need to get two more swords."

"I wanna get another kusarigama!" Naruto joyfully announced.

Zoro raised an eyebrow. "Are you sure, brat?"

Naruto beamed up at his brother, "I wanna make my own style!"

Resigned, Zoro replied, "Fine, you're the one who has to train."

Naruto whooped.

"I'll go get some money…"

"Hold up!" that was Nami. "You think you can spend money, just like that?"

"When it's mine, yeah."

"Oh, no, you don't, mister!" Nami poked a finger into Zoro's chest. "We have to budget ourselves, so we won't have to worry about the future."

"Who put you in charge of the money?!" Zoro demanded. "Besides, we have plenty to spare!"

"I put myself in charge. I'm the treasurer. And you shouldn't be so casual about spending our money!"

Zoro sounded extremely sarcastic as he spoke. "I'm not! And since when were you put in charge of our funds?"

"Anyway," Nami ignored Zoro's glare, "I'll give you…100,000."

"That's not enough." Zoro said, crossing his arms. "1,000,000."

"One-are you insane?! You can't honestly think of spending that much!"

"How much do you think a decent blade costs? That's being pretty reasonable since you're being stingy"

"Stop arguing with Nami-swan, you uncouth Neanderthal!"

"Stay out of this, dumbass swirly-brow!"

"Fine, fine…200,000, 20% interest."

"You…Make it 9, you stingy bitch."

"Oh, how civil, Zoro-kun!" Nami laughed. "300,000, with 40% interest."

"You can't do that!" Gaara finally spoke up, getting Zoro and Nami's attention. "It's not like it's yours. It's not fair, why do we have to pay you back for our money?"

"It's everyone's money now, Gaara-kun." Nami said with a smile that masked the slight nervousness against Gaara's glare. "I'm just managing it more wisely."

"But Zoro-nii and Naruto need more than that!"

Fine, I'll make it 900,000…with 75% interest."

Zoro glowered at Nami before he groaned in defeat. "Thanks for trying, sand-brat."

Gaara looked ready to argue again, but Nami patted his head. "You're so cute when you're riled up and threatening people, Gaara-kun!"

Gaara gaped up at Nami wide-eyed before covering the lower half of his face with his scarf. An indignant mutter of, "I'm not cute…" could be heard.

"I'm gonna go see the execution platform," Luffy said, jumping up on the railing and clinging to the mast with a stretched-out arm. "The place where Gold Rodger died…"

"Rodger…?" Gaara was paying attention to Luffy now, and no, he wasn't sulking about losing to Nami. Whatever it was that he had lost. "Rooster-head told me about him…"

"Oh! Wanna go see the platform with me, Gaara?"

"Okay…"

Now that Gaara's attention was off of her, Nami breathed out in relief. She was slightly surprised that she had gotten away with teasing Gaara. His response hadn't really been was she had expected; and she'd found it endearing.

Ichibi laughed, because he had felt Nami's fear, and yet she had been so casual and teasing about the whole thing. He knew that Gaara's cheeks had flared at Nami's comment. In spite of his tone, Gaara hadn't been insulted or angry. The kiddo's reaction was truly amusing.

"We should get some more ingredients while we're here," Sanji said thoughtfully. "The market could have rare ingredients."

"Oh, and I need to check for any specialty bookstores!" Pudding looked elated.

"Sanji-kun, Pudding-chan," Nami got the pair's attention before she glanced to see how far away the others were, "Make sure to stock up; Luffy and the younger Roronoa brothers can eat quite a bit…" she paused for a moment, then added, "Just so you know, if we're low on food, Zoro will skip out on eating and call it "training" so that the others can eat."

Sanji's eyes widened, somewhat. Oh. The snippet of conversation had caught between the brothers earlier made a bit more sense.

"Don't tell him you know, and since you two are here, I doubt he'll ever even check. You should at least know how that idiot will get when it comes to his brothers."

Pudding looked teary-eyed. "He's such a good man!"

Sanji rolled his eyes as he took the belli Nami was giving him. He could easily be twice the man that thick-headed Marimo was.

"That's a 45% interest, got it, Sanji-kun?"

"Of course, Nami-swan." Sanji gently laid a kiss on Nami's hand.

Pudding gave what appeared to be a nod of approval, and she leaned in and whispered, "You win this round, Nami-chan."

Nami frowned in confusion. What had she won?

The two Chefs then left for the market, with Pudding holding onto Sanji's arm.

0000

Loguetown was actually a pretty decent looking place: cobblestones and well-built wooden buildings lined the streets. It was fairly crowded; understandable since it was the weekend. Zoro unwittingly shifted a little to his right, and moments later, a young woman ran into him.

Zoro's bulk, combined with his instinctively using chakra in his feet to remain upright caused the woman to stumble ungracefully to the ground. Her glasses slipped off and landed by Zoro's feet.

"Ow…" the woman muttered, rubbing her sore nose. "Where'd you even come from?"

"Oh, uh, sorry." Zoro said a little awkwardly as he knelt down to retrieve her glasses. "Here…"

"Oh! Thanks!" she removed her hand from her face to reach for her glasses…her face…she looked just like…

Zoro balked, he unwittingly tightened his fist, accidently breaking the glasses in his hand.

"Hey! What the hell?!"

"Shit…" Zoro dropped the broken glasses to the ground and grabbed the woman's arm and pulled her to her feet. "Sorry…"

Naruto was staring at Zoro, who he had never seen act so flustered before.

"My glasses! You're going to pay for those, mis-!"

"Here!" Zoro shoved a stack of several hundred belli into the woman's hands.

"H-what?" the woman looked perplexed and very annoyed as Zoro grabbed Naruto's arm and took off. "Wait, you have to…"

Tashigi exhaled as she shoved the bellies into her pocket. What a weird guy. Plus, running away like that? How rude.

Zoro was running with Naruto, and it wasn't until Naruto noticed that they had passed by the same restaurant several times before he flushed chakra into his feet so that they'd be yanked into stopping. Zoro lost his grip on Naruto and nearly tripped flat on his face; while Naruto was lucky his arm didn't come out of its socket.

"What the hell, Zoro-nii? What was that?"

Zoro stood up, muttering under his breath. He glared at the ground for a moment, before saying, "That girl…she had Kuina's face."

"Kuina…? Oh…"

It was far too weird and uncanny. Is that how Kuina would have looked? Except this Kuina-look-a-like definitely smiled more and didn't carry herself like Kuina did. Kuina would have dodged. She then would have admonished him for being so inattentive.

Zoro covered his eyes and sighed heavily, his other hand resting on Wado Ichimonji.

"Hey, Zoro-nii." Naruto grabbed Zoro's arm, hoping to distract him. "Let's go get our weapons, 'ttebayou."

0000

Finding a weapons shop was relatively easy; but finding one that suited their budget narrowed things down a bit. But they came upon one that actually looked relatively decent.

Ipponmatsu the shopkeeper was bored; really, really bored. He had cleaned his shop unnecessarily and then had cleaned it again. It had been way too long since he had any customers…why, just a few years ago business was booming! And then that overzealous Marine Smoker just had to do his job so damn effectively!

Ipponmatsu sighed. He jolted a bit when the bell to his shop rang – and there were a couple of boys entering his shop!

"Oh! Welcome!"

"Yo!" the younger of the two greeted.

The older one glanced around before stating, "We only have a budget of just under 900,000 between the two of us, so be mindful of what you pick, okay, brat?"

"Okay…"

That was mildly annoying – depending on what they wanted to get, it wouldn't be worth much. At least one of his decent weapons cost 900,000 alone. He studied them – the older one already had a sword, and the other had an older, but obviously well cared-for kusarigama.

He studied the older boy's weapon – and noticed much to his shock…no way…this kid had Wado Ichimonji?!

"Hey kid," Ipponmatsu started and he gave his best salesman smile. "I'll be willing to take that sword off of you for…let's say 100,000? Then, that'll raise your budget up a bit m—"

"No."

"What about 110?"

Ipponmatsu failed to notice the glare as he added, "Fine, 120."

"You make one more offer on my sword and I'll cut off your arms starting with your fingertips." Zoro said darkly, flicking his sword guard so that it made a very satisfying *shink* as the blade came partially out of its sheath.

That got Ipponmatsu to back down – what a scary guy!

Still slightly annoyed, Zoro was looking at cheaper swords that were gathered pretty randomly in a barrel when he happened to look up at the wall to notice several posters that depicted detailed drawings of swords…was that…no way. Zoro looked at the name of a particular sword on one of the posters just to be sure: it was Kubikiribōchō, Zabuza's sword. There were also posters depicting other swords…of the Seven Swordsmen of the Mist.

"'One of the Lost Seven?'" Zoro questioned, reading the characters. "Oi, old man."

"Yes?" Ipponmatsu was glad that he had managed to keep the tremble out of his voice.

"What're the Lost Seven?"

"Oh, seven legendary swords that disappeared hundreds of years ago. If it weren't for actual historical accounts of people seeing them being used in battle, then they'd simple be nothing more than fanciful lore." Ipponmatsu began excitedly. It was nice to have a captive audience, and share this with someone who actually asked. "They were special because only members of a certain and exclusive group could earn the right to wield them. The swords themselves were rumored to have unique and dangerous powers. The Swordsmen were an incredibly skilled and powerful secretive bunch from some far-off country that likely sunk deep into the sea long ago, and that's why no-one's ever been able to find them."

"Swordsmen of the world have searched for those swords, and blacksmiths have tried and failed to duplicate them." Ipponmatsu gave a longing sort of exhale. "Whoever made those beauties…they must have used some very forbidden and risky techniques!"

That was interesting.

"Hey, Ipponmatsu-san!" an all-too-familiar voice greeted. "I'm here to pick up Shigure!"

"Hello, Tashigi-san." Ipponmatsu said, not really bothering to keep the annoyance out of his voice. The Marines and a few locals were his only customers nowadays. "I'll get your sword."

"You!" Tashigi pointed at Zoro. "You're lucky I had spare pair of glasses to hold me over until Monday! And running off like that? I really should make you clean the floors of our Base…"

Tashigi trailed off when she noticed that Zoro was pointedly trying to edge away from her and was resolute to not look at her.

"Here you go," Ipponmatsu drew her attention away from how strange the guy was being.

Ipponmatsu set her sword on the counter, and Tashigi cuddled her precious Blade. "It's so good to have you back, baby!"

Meanwhile, Zoro was very busy looking at a barrel-full of swords. He could swear that he felt something here. Closing his eyes, he reached out for that particular sword, and pulled out a blade that had a very nasty feeling to it.

Zoro smirked at his find. "How much for this one?"

"NO!" Ipponmatsu quickly protested, looking nervous. "That one is Cursed! It's been the horrible downfall of all who have wielded it!"

His smirk only widened. "Is that so? How about we test my luck against this sword's Curse?"

Zoro unsheathed the Blade and tossed it into the air – and then much to the horror of those observing, Zoro held his arm out in the falling sword's path. The back of the sword's edge was what brushed up against Zoro's outstretched arm before its blade sunk deep into the floor.

There was a sense of amusement from the Blade and echoing laughter.

"I'll take it."

Ipponmatsu couldn't believe it. "You…you wait right there!"

He suddenly disappeared into the back.

Tashigi collapsed to the floor in awe. That was…amazing! If she hadn't seen it with her own eyes, she would have doubted anyone who told her! She was suddenly on her feet again, squealing – internally – because this was such a sight to see!

An ecstatic Ipponmatsu came out carrying another sword, and he held it out to Zoro. His wife, Ipponume was behind him. She eyed Zoro curiously; with an arched brow and a smile on her face.

"This is Yubashiri, a sword that has been in my family for generations. I want you to have it."

"Are you sure?" Zoro asked, because he knew how big of a deal that was.

"Absolutely! It would be an honor for you to wield it. It's not doing much good here." Ipponmatsu smiled. "You can have them both for free, in fact!"

"Thanks…" Zoro said, accepting the proffered sword.

"My, three swords is quite the interesting feat, dearie." Ipponume commented with obvious approval. "I can see why my dear husband would want you to have Yubashiri."

Not really sure how to respond, Zoro said, "…I'll take good care of it."

0000

While Ipponmatsu had been talking to Zoro, Naruto went looking for another kusarigama; hoping to find one here. There were definitely more than enough swords of different lengths and styles. Spears and lances were hanging along one wall, or were collected rather messily in barrels; clubs on another…there were shields on that wall…

Finally, Naruto found a few kusarigama hanging on the wall in the corner. Naruto's eyes sparkled; they were so shiny! He reached up to grab one at random, but stopped. Remembering what Zoro had told him about Sword's Spirit – that a blade was more than a blade. It was asking permission while simultaneously demanding to be listened to. It was asking for the honor while also showing you had the both the skill and the right to wield the blade.

So Naruto closed his eyes, and focused on the various kusarigama in front of him. There was whispering? Wait. One of them had a faint voice, he was sure of it. He reached forward, and picked up the one he had heard.

It was a beautiful, shiny black metal. It had a pattern carved into the blade; which looked to be a bird of prey. The weighted end had a sharp point and three talons.

The moment he touched it, Naruto felt…something. A tingling sensation that housed amusement and annoyance, and Naruto felt as if he were a child pestering an adult for their undivided attention. There was some sort of pulse. But it wasn't clear if the kusarigama approved of Naruto or not. It was probably testing him.

Naruto proudly walked over to where Zoro was, almost stopping in his tracks because that lady was here, in the weapons shop.

Choosing to ignore her because that was what Zoro was doing (or at least trying to), Naruto put the kusarigama on the counter. "How much for this, mister?"

"GAHHH!" Ipponmatsu screamed. "You shouldn't have that! That isn't a toy!"

Ipponmatsu reached to take the kusarigama, but Naruto pulled it closer to him.

"I wanna buy it! I'm not dumb enough to think it's a toy, 'ttebayou…"

"Boy, that Blade isn't something you should want." Ipponmatsu warned, somewhat desperately. "It's called Hayabusa, a Blade that is named after the man who first wielded it. It's said to have been made from the claw of an ancient dragon. Hayabusa was so skilled with that weapon, he could slaughter hundreds with just the swing of a single arc. Ill-luck has come upon those who've wielded it ever since Hayabusa, the man's passing. The blade has always cut those who've tried; more often than not, killing them."

Impulsively, Naruto nicked his arm with Hayabusa, and he could already see that he was healing. Ipponmatsu wasn't paying attention to the fact Naruto wasn't bleeding like a normal person, but rather that he had cut himself.

"Are you kidding me?!" Ipponmatsu couldn't believe two different people thought that messing around with Named Blades that carried Curses was such a good idea.

"Oh, my…" Ipponume said, looking at Naruto with some concern.

"Look at that, Hayabusa, I'm not that easy to cut down," Naruto said, "I wanna be an awesome Ninja who's known the world over. Roronoa-Uzumaki Naruto is my name, and I want to use you on my journey, so let me wield you, 'ttebayou!"

He fed some his chakra into Hayabusa , to prove a point. There was another pulse, then…Naruto could have sworn he heard laughter. It was different from Kyuubi's; whose laugh echoed inside his mind. This was more… a feeling of that laugh that came from Hayabusa.

We'll see…

Naruto beamed up at Ipponmatsu, and he was placing belli down, when Tashigi suddenly started yelling.

0000

Tashigi grinned at seeing Ipponmatsu so happy. She watched as the younger boy put his newly selected weapon up on the counter, and the shopkeeper was saying something to him. Ignoring that, Tashigi unwittingly on her part, invaded the teen's personal space as she leaned in to inspect his swords.

Adjusting her glasses and failing to notice how he stiffened, she said, "Those swords are amazing! And three? There's only one guy I know of who uses three swords…" her brow furrowed. Wait. Three swords… "What's the third one…?"

Tashigi's voice trailed off when she realized…a white sword…this was Wado Ichimonji.

Slowly, Tashigi straightened and she really looked at Zoro – scrutinizing him and ignoring his growing discomfort under her gaze which was slowly turning into a glare.

"You're Zoro, aren't you?" she asked quietly. "Roronoa Zoro?"

It was a good thing she was wearing gloves, because her fists were clenched so tight her fingernails would have drawn blood. Her hands shook and she glared at Zoro with tears in her eyes. "You don't have a right to that sword! Wado Ichimonji shouldn't have ever been in your hands! You don't deserve it!"

Tashigi drew her blade, and ignored Ipponmatsu, who protested about fighting in his shop and assaulting customers.

"This is personal!" Tashigi snarled at the man, who recoiled. He hadn't seen Tashigi ever get this angry; and it was extremely rare for anyone to see how angry she was capable of becoming. "Stay out of this!"

Ipponmatsu ducked behind the counter with a muffled, "Yes ma'am!"

"Now, listen here…" Tashigi blinked. She was talking to the air.

Zoro had grabbed Naruto's shirt collar and ran out the door while the crazy lady was yelling at Ipponmatsu.

Ipponmatsu received around 1,200 belli, which was only a fraction of Hayabusa's actual cost. But, he didn't really mind. Those weapons had gone to a couple of interesting people.

Tashigi ran out onto the street in time to see them turn the corner. She ran after them; and saw them run down an alley at another corner a few blocks down. How had they gotten that far so fast?!

"STOP!" Tashigi demanded, and she ran to where she had seen them turn…only to find a dead end. Where had they gone?! She cursed, and yelled, "Come out and face me, Roronoa!"

That thief wouldn't show his face! What a coward! Tashigi ran around the area, yelling for Zoro and frightening people as she asked i.e. terrifyingly demanded from people that she passed if they had seen Zoro. Frustratingly, it was always a 'no'.

Tashigi cursed as she made her way back to the Base. She would get Wado Ichimonji – she was determined to do it. She swore to herself that soon, Wado Ichimonji would be back to where it rightfully belonged.

0000

Tashigi had been born just a few years after Kuina. They looked so much alike, that they could have been sisters. If they had been born any closer in age, they could have passed for twins.

There were adults in the girls' lives that couldn't help but compare the two somehow. It was in how they dressed, spoke, and acted. Most, if not all, of Tashigi's early memories was chasing after Kuina – copying the older girl wherever and whenever she could. Kuina had taken her copying with good grace, and seemed to like being the one to tell Tashigi what to do. To have someone hang on to her every word had made Kuina feel so grown-up and important.

But there were the obvious differences between them. Kuina had her father's nose and her mother's smile; while Tashigi had her mother's eyes and her father's expressions. Kuina had a tomboyish streak that didn't detract from her enviable grace. Ever since she was young, Tashigi was naturally clumsy; always running into things and tripping.

Glasses had helped, somewhat.

Some of Tashigi's favorite memories were practicing with bokutō as she and Kuina trained. Kuina was so focused; she didn't care what Koshiro had to say about girls learning swordsmanship. So, Tashigi trained right alongside her.

When Tashigi was five, almost six, her grandparents on her father's side started needing help around their home, so the decision was made that she and her parents would move to the island that was several weeks' worth of sailing to take care of them. It was logical, because even though there was family on her father's side, they were the only ones still residing in East Blue.

Tashigi said goodbye to her cousin who was more like a sister, and they promised each other to write. She situated herself in her new home, new school, new life, and was overjoyed to find that there was a local dojo. Things weren't so bad.

When Tashigi was eight, Kuina's letters started telling her of a boy whom Koshiro had taken in. Roronoa Zoro – which to Tashigi, was a funny name. Wasn't Roronoa the name of a swashbuckling Pirate in a book? And yes, it was.

It seemed that Roronoa Zoro was always chasing after Kuina; challenging her and losing horribly. Kuina told Tashigi about the bruises and she would inflict, and amusement mixed with annoyance was often the tone of the letters. One time, she knocked out one of Zoro's baby teeth, and broke his nose on more than one occasion.

But over time, the tone of the letters changed; and soon there was praise of Zoro's skills and how hard Kuina had to work and how she was excited. Zoro had become something in her cousin's life, and Tashigi would admit to feeling a little jealous. It was a silly thing, really. She should be happy that Kuina felt challenged and looked forward to Zoro challenging her. Kuina's letters never stopped, but they always contained something about Zoro.

Tashigi was eleven when she learned of Kuina's death. She laid in bed for a week and lost several pounds.

There had been two letters – one that contained the unfortunate news; and the other that was Kuina's final letter to her, that was written the week before she died.

It had expressed doubts about herself; about her skills; how Zoro had come just that much closer to beating her.

'I sometimes wish I had been born a boy, so that way, Father would truly train me. I wish he'd see me as worthy. That's why I want to go beyond this dojo, and show the world what a Swordswoman can do. I want to prove to Father that I have a right to this dojo.

But what if I fail? What if I'm not good enough?

Zoro's catching up to me, and soon he'll overtake me. That's the way it naturally is, with boys and girls.

I hate that I have to work so much harder than everyone else, but at the same time, I enjoy the challenge. I'm scared, Tashigi-chan, but at the same time, it's exhilarating.

Want to know a secret? I have Wado Ichimonji at my side, and it's a comforting thing. I know it hasn't "properly" been given to me yet, but I swear, I can hear a voice coming from it sometimes, like it's guiding me – encouraging me. I swear, it sounds like Grandpa. Weird, right?

Sword's Spirit is a funny thing.'

Tashigi determined that she would train – because her wallowing wasn't doing anyone any good, and Kuina wouldn't want to see her like that.

Seventeen – seemed like a good age to return to Crescent Island and Shimotsuki Village.

Tashigi returned with several goals in mind: she would ask Koshiro to train her, because she knew that Grandfather had passed on the knowledge of Sword's Spirit to him, even though he wasn't a practitioner of the art himself. She would bow and beg for him to teach her, even though he didn't take girls. She would ask for Wado Ichimonji, because she would carry Kuina's ambition on her shoulders, no matter how heavy it was. She would join the Marines so she could use that beloved sword for a truly noble cause, and upon retirement, she would take over the dojo.

That was a goal worthy of Kuina's memory, wasn't it?

Tashigi prided herself on her ability to plan ahead. She was so meticulous about it.

Except – it seemed that things had changed.

There were girls in the class. Several of them in fact.

"How long has Uncle Koshiro been training girls?"

"Oh, um…around five-six years?"

He'd started training girls about six months after Kuina had… what had changed his mind?

Koshiro easily agreed to train her; she didn't even have to beg. She had had a speech prepared and everything. Since Tashigi didn't want anyone to think she had been handed this opportunity, she worked hard. He taught her to work with her clumsiness and use it to her advantage. Tashigi was skilled, and she advanced through his lessons, and she learned Sword's Spirit – or at least, got the basic techniques down.

She was proud of herself.

One day, she was tasked with putting something away in one of the bedrooms that had also become something of a storeroom. One side of the bedroom had boxes and supplies, and on the other side was a futon, a nightstand, and several large weights.

Tashigi stopped and stared at the opposite wall. On the wall there were tally marks. Thousands of them under a messily scrawled, 'Kuina' while the side that said 'Zoro' was blank. Tashigi counted the tally marks. 3,000. Zoro had challenged her so many times.

She saw the faded bloodstains on the weights. How hard had Zoro worked?

A twinge of something. Clearly, beating Kuina had been Zoro's goal. What would he have done if he had? Would he have gloated? No…from what she could gleam from the letters, Zoro would have respected her. He would have probably been relieved he wouldn't suffer any more broken bones and bruises from her.

Maybe.

Eighteen. She asked Koshiro if she could test out Wado Ichimonji; to see if a Named Blade would approve of her.

Koshiro had looked genuinely surprised that she'd even ask. "I'm sorry, Tashigi-chan. I don't have it anymore."

"WHAT?! Why?!" Even though she was surprised by her own outburst, Koshiro showed no response to it.

"I gave it to a former student of mine, Roronoa Zoro."

"You didn't have the right!"

That something, that twinge – she could finally identify it. Resentment towards Zoro built up within Tashigi, because it felt like Zoro had taken something from her. He had taken Kuina – whose letters always, always had mentioned him in some shape or form every week for almost three years. He had taken Uncle Koshiro, because she saw how Koshiro looked when talking about Zoro – a smile with a look of fondness and pride. Zoro had taken Wado Ichimonji – and Kuina's dream with it.

It was the first of many fights. It seemed that Tashigi went looking for them – she didn't intend to, but somehow, she always found some sort of keyword that made her angry and she'd want to fight. As for 'why' she couldn't really say. Maybe she wanted to fight so that she could finally hear what she wanted to hear – whatever that was.

But it always seemed, that she could scream and yell for all she was worth, and Koshiro was calm.

"Why did you give it to him?!"

"Because, he asked for it. His ambition was and still is incredibly strong. The sword accepted him."

"It shouldn't even be his sword in the first place!"

Angry that Zoro had gotten what had been Kuina's and should have been hers; the more she thought about it, the angrier she got. It was even more upsetting because Koshiro always had an air of calm when talking to her about Zoro. She wanted him to react to something; anything.

Tashigi regretted it the moment she said it. "Are you replacing Kuina with Zoro?"

There was a flash of something on Koshiro's usually impassive features; a darkness – anger, yes – and for the first time, Tashigi was afraid of her uncle in that split second. But then regret was there, as if anger had never been present at all.

In fact, he looked exhausted as he said, "He's carrying Kuina's dream, Tashigi."

"So you're giving him the dojo too?" there was hurt accusation in her tone.

Koshiro looked confused as he asked, "Why would I give him the dojo?"

"Because that's what Kuina wanted! She wanted the dojo!"

"Oh…yes, I suppose she did…" Koshiro's smile was fond. "She would have done an amazing job, if I had…" Koshiro's voice trailed off from whatever he was going to say, and instead he said, "He's taking her blade to the top. That was the promise he had with her."

The cryptic message was annoying. What was it with sword masters and not just saying what they mean directly?! Zoro had something with Kuina she didn't. No, she wasn't that jealous. At least, Tashigi tried to convince herself of that.

It seemed that there was something that could annoy Koshiro – when he had casually asked her what she intended to do after graduating.

Tashigi proudly told him her plan: Join the Navy, rise in the ranks, retire, and finish by taking over this dojo.

Koshiro frowned. "You're joining the Navy?"

There was clearly disapproval on his face – and it hurt to see it.

"You don't think I can do that either, don't you?"

Koshiro's expression changed. "Excuse me."

He left the room, leaving Tashigi with her doubts.

He came back, though, carrying a sword. Tashigi immediately recognized Shigure – the sword that would have been her mother's. It was a Named Blade that had been waiting for an owner as it was passed down for several generations in the dojo – often going to the second-born child.

"If you're going to join the Navy…you'll need a Blade like this at your side." But Koshiro didn't look happy about it. There was a lot she wanted to ask him, but she didn't know the words. "Are you sure you want to join the Navy?"

"Yes…I do." Tashigi hated that she hesitated.

"There is something you need to understand, Tashigi."

Koshiro never really talked about where he had come from – it was a sore subject. Sometimes, he mentioned things, and Tashigi figured he was from Wano. Knowing some of what she did about the country now, a part of her understood why he wouldn't want to talk about it. He had escaped from an island that had cut itself off from the world, and anyone who escaped alive and intact was lucky.

That evening, Koshiro told her about the time he had killed a child – the nameless boy who had been so young and had no place being on a battlefield. People had thought less of him because he couldn't take fighting anymore. It was justifiable self-defense, and yet…the pain and regret on his otherwise unreadable features had spoken volumes.

About a friend named Sakumo and his son, Kakashi. What Sakumo had done, and the aftermath – and how it had affected Kakashi, who had been so young – too young to have to deal with the fallout and bitter at the world. Koshiro had wanted her to understand loyalties – and that rules should be broken sometimes – for the sake of others.

To stand by comrades; be there for people; and sometimes, authority must be questioned. Tashigi remembered seeing anger and bitterness there at times, depending on the subject. His dislike of the Marines was always clear; but he didn't discourage her.

Not really.

It seemed that there was something else there – a worry. It wasn't that she was joining the Marines; it was what the Marines represented.

"You need to know where you stand, Tashigi."

It was the first time he had talked about himself beyond whatever his life had been before meeting her grandfather and marrying his eldest daughter. Tashigi realized that day the man she had known as her Uncle for her entire life was the shadow of a man long-gone. A man who had oddly become a pacifist; but was willing to show others how to fight. She vaguely remembered her grandfather talking about overcoming mountains, and cutting them down; and willing to be cut.

It seemed that Koshiro had come upon a mountain and was cut down – and just couldn't bring himself to care enough to get up again.

A month after that conversation, she enlisted in the Navy and soon found herself under the command of Smoker.

From there, Tashigi kept her eye out for Zoro. But it was like he had vanished. The world was a big place, but she hated that she couldn't find any sign of him.

At nineteen, Tashigi had climbed the ranks and established herself as Smoker's right hand. She started hearing rumors about the Roronoa Brothers; Bounty Hunters of East Blue, and Phantom Blade Roronoa Zoro. Where had he been all this time?

At twenty, she ran into Zoro in Logue Town, and realized that Kuina's beloved sword was being used for a life of piracy. The nerve! How dare Zoro use Kuina's sword like that! Why hadn't it rejected him?!

Tashigi was then determined – ever so much so, that she would take her Blade up against Wado Ichimonji. It would see her skill and devotion; it would feel her sense of Justice; and Wado Ichimonji would slip to the side so that Shigure would strike true. Then she could claim what was rightfully hers.

000

The air prickled with the signs of an oncoming storm, and the sky was becoming overcast. Dark clouds could be seen further out, and thunder could be heard. It wouldn't be long until rain started pouring, and the shopkeepers were already preparing for the storm by pulling their merchandise off of the street.

The crowd gathered in the town square wasn't that bad; with some people lingering because the storm technically hadn't really reached them yet.

"There it is, Gaara!" Luffy pointed, and Gaara looked at a platform that towered several feet over the square. "Come on, I wanna go to the top of it."

Gaara just stayed on the ground and observed as Luffy sprung up onto the platform, and peered out over the crowd.

"This is the last thing, Rodger saw, huh…" he had seen old newspaper articles, photographs, even drawings of the infamous Rodger's last moments. How packed the square had been. Shanks and his crew had told Luffy this story many times, telling him of how proud the man had been.

A sensation of something being swung at him… "Whoa!"

Luffy dodged an attack from a man in a jester's costume by twisting away on his heel. He then ducked when a club swung at him; but that was when something was latched around his neck. All of his energy left him as Luffy was forced to lie down on his stomach.

"Hey, what's going on?" Luffy asked, as he tried twisting around to see.

"Observe, everyone!" a man started shouting theatrically to the gathering crowd below.

"Huh, Boogum, is that you?"

"It's Buggy!" the clown Captain snapped. "Anyway, today, we're going to have an execution, folks!"

"But I don't wanna get executed!" Luffy objected, writhing. Dammit, his rubber powers weren't working for some reason! Wait…hadn't Touma mentioned something about Devil Fruit users and mystery ocean rocks? Mystery ocean rocks sucked!

"You don't get a say in this, Straw-Hat!"

Down below, Gaara's shield was responding to several failed attacks from guns.

"Stay away from him," one of the jesters warned a few of those with him. "That sand of his is weird!"

Gaara was about to deal with them when he heard the commotion up above and realized what was going on.

"Captain!" Gaara started running up the side of the platform as Buggy brought down his sword. He was furious! That red-nose dared to try and take Captain from them?! Gaara determined that he would crush every bit of Buggy very, very slowly.

This wasn't how Luffy expected to go. There was so much he still wanted to do in life, but ah, well…people don't always get what they want. That was disappointing. He should apologize to his crew – his precious nakama – even the invisible people whom he didn't even have a chance to get to know… Luffy smiled, accepting his fate, "Sorry guys, I'm dead!"

At that moment, many things happened at once:

Gaara clotheslined the Buggy Pirates with a sand-leg. All of the Buggy Pirates who had piled onto the platform were hit by Gaara; save for Buggy who quickly split himself in half – Gaara's frustrated expression was quite glorious (even if it was chilling). Buggy was able to continue bringing his sword down, determined to cut off Luffy's head. Just then, the sky lit up, and there was an electrical energy surrounding Buggy's sword; and then lightning struck with a deafening *BOOM* that seemed to shake the ground itself.

Gaara's sand shot up to protect him from the strike. The force of the lighting was so great, that it caused the platform to collapse. Luffy sat up in the wreckage completely fine, and glanced around at the wrecked platform and the smoking Buggy Pirates.

Luffy was somewhat confused about what had just happened, and was about to comment on how close a call that was. "Whoa-oh!"

Gaara grabbed Luffy in his sand and began running the moment he saw various members of their crew down in the crowd.

"Hello, again, Luffy." Alvida said as she stepped into their path, and Gaara skidded to a stop.

"Uh…who're you?" Luffy asked. She felt familiar, but her face didn't ring any bells.

"Oh, I ate the Sube-Sube no Mi, so I'm not really surprised you don't recognize me…the only thing that really changed about me was…I lost my freckles."

"Okay?"

"You hit me and sent me flying!" Alvida huffed, in an almost childish pouting tone. "You were the first man to ever do so!"

Luffy's fist bounced in his hand. "Oh, you're that whale lady!"

Alvida smiled wide, a blush covering her cheeks. "Just as brash as ever, I see! You really hold nothing back…Ever since I met you, I've discovered something about myself…" she was panting, somewhat, and her emotions felt wild and hot as she said, "I would love to get to know you better…in a more personal setting."

"Luffy, Gaara, let's go!" Usopp called. "The Marines are gathering at the port!"

Luffy and Gaara quickly sidestepped Alvida and continued their retreat, and she frowned.

"Oh, Luffy~" Alvida called after her fellow Captain, "You aren't leaving me behind, are you?"

"Yep! Bye, creepy lady!"

"Don't think you can escape me so easily!" Alvida skated after the two, gliding easily across the ground.

Nearby, a tic mark appeared on Pudding's forehead. With an eerie smile, she handed her shopping bags to Sanji, "Sanji-dear, be a sugarplum and hold these for me?"

"Of course." Sanji said, eager to please.

Pudding then charged directly at Alvida.

The love-struck woman was gliding towards Gaara and Luffy, a seductive smile on her face. "You can't possibly escape my love, Lu-OOOFFF!"

Alvida was cut off when Pudding suddenly struck with a Haki-covered, flying round-house kick into Alvida's stomach. The woman went flying back; with her crew, the Buggy Pirates, and the Straw-Hats all watching with shocked expressions. Alvida hit the ground, and thanks to her Devil Fruit, slid almost thirty feet into a fruit stall; bringing it down on top of her.

Pudding glowered furiously; terrifying everyone who was watching. "Luffy-sweetie is not yours to seduce! As if your tainted, shallow love would ever be good enough for him!"

"Oh, Pudding! Nice kick!" Luffy grinned at her, causing Pudding to blush heavily.

"I'd do it again if you asked, Luffy-sweetie~!"

"So scary…" Usopp muttered to Nami, and she agreed.

Pudding's smile was once again sweet as she sauntered back to Sanji with a skip in he step. "Thank you for holding my things, Sanji-dear."

"You're so beautiful when you beat other people up, Pudding-chan!" Sanji cried, waving an arm as the other one was holding a mountain of supplies.

"You're so manly when you hold a woman's shopping, Sanji-dear!"

"Come on, we have to go!" Nami called out to the others, and interrupting the antics of Sanji and Pudding. "We need to get ahead of the worst of the storm!"

There was shouting from the rival Pirates, and that was when they realized that the Marines were gathering in the square.

"Stop right there!" a Marine pointed at them and shouted, but of course, the Straw-Hat Pirates wouldn't listen to a Marine's orders.

The crew ran for it, running in the back alleys and next to the waterways. All of a sudden –

"Roronoa Zoro!" Tashigi charged at Zoro and she balked when Zoro stepped backwards; only to disappear and appear further ahead on the path. What sort of Devil Fruit was that?

"It's the angry lady, 'ttebayou!"

"Get back here and fight me properly, Roronoa!"

"Get away from me, you crazy sword-otaku!"

Smoke surrounded them, and a voice commanded, "Hold it!"

Zoro quickly whirled around and drew Wado Ichimonji, and yanked Nami out of the way of a charging Tashigi. Their swords clashed, and Zoro was quick to respond to Tashigi's strikes. She fought very, eerily similar to Kuina and Koshiro; but her style was slightly different. It was clumsy; yet at the same time, versatile and smooth. She used her clumsiness to her advantage; making her strikes difficult to predict and intercept. If Zoro wasn't careful, the crazy sword-otaku could injure him.

"Hey!" Luffy was ripped off of his sandy ride and thrown to the ground the moment the smoke surrounded them.

"Sorry, but I can't let you Pirates leave," Smoker said as he shoved his jitte into Luffy's back. "I'm going to have to arrest—"

Smoker was cut off when Gaara charged at him with a snarl and sand whirling around him. Smoker simply used his powers to turn into smoke to avoid this crazy kid's sand powers. Except, he felt his jitte get ripped from his hold, and all of a sudden, a rubbery fist hit him. Smoker was violently shoved back, and forced to quickly reevaluate the situation.

He eyed Luffy's retreating form in surprise. How could this brat could know Haki already? Crocodile was still alive and well, so did that mean the gourd had the Devil Fruit because the kid was holding onto his jitte with the look of someone who'd just struck gold. But he wouldn't let these drawbacks stop him. Smoker was on his feet within seconds, and he was running forward when a hand grabbed his shoulder from behind, along with twisting his arm around behind his back.

Turning, Smoker froze when he saw the face of Dragon. He recognized the man even though his face was obscured by a hood.

"Sorry, but I won't let you interfere with Luffy's adventure."

"Why do you care?" Smoker asked, unable to twist out of Dragon's Haki-filled hold easily from where the other man gripped his shoulder. He quickly went into his smoke-form and shoved himself out of Dragon's grasp. Dragon did let him go, showing that he wasn't necessarily there to fight. He was merely the distraction.

"I have a vested interest." Dragon responded as he watched his son and his crew run away. Interesting…he had never encountered someone with two personas – or whatever they were. But to have two people with those extra passengers; it was fascinating. The feeling he got from the two invisible people…it wasn't a feeling he could properly put words to.

Further ahead on the path, Tashigi yelled as she charged at Zoro, who kept doing that weird fading thing – and wouldn't properly fight her. He would only block – and Kuina's sword – Tashigi desperately reached out for it mentally, trying to get a feeling from it.

'*Choose me! Choose me, dammit! I'll wield you with the honor and respect that you deserve!*'

But not once, did Zoro falter. He refused to fight her and was awkward, but Wado – Kuina's sword – it wouldn't respond to her calls. Was it because she already had a Named Blade? Zoro had those other swords – and Wado still chose him.

Zoro pulled away and did something with his hands, and yelled something, but she missed it because she was angrily thinking about the not-fight, when the water in the nearby canal roared and rose high into the air like a typhoon.

Tashigi skidded to a stop and her jaw dropped as a twisting water-dragon formed and…slammed into her and the other Marines. Her glasses went flying off somewhere.

Dammit.

Smoker was gaping as well. And then he realized that the dragon was heading right towards where he and Dragon were standing. It was either continue fighting Dragon, who currently looked very starry-eyed at the water dragon; or dodge.

Smoker went to get out of the way, when Dragon suddenly yanked the back of his jacket and threw him to the ground. In a sudden burst of wind, Dragon disappeared. That bastard just wanted to be annoying. The water dragon soared over where Smoker was lying and crashed into a nearby pool before dissipating; leaving behind several dazed Marines.

The Marines coughed and spluttered, and Dragon was nowhere to be seen.

"That bastard…" Smoker muttered.

"That jerk!" Tashigi raged.

The other Marines groaned.

Up on one of the buildings, Dragon watched as Luffy and the others ran towards the docks.

"You've already found yourself an interesting crew, Luffy…"

Plus…Roronoa Zoro had ghosting abilities like that of Touma. He and his father had both mentioned having extended family. Perhaps he should mention it?

With one last look towards Luffy, Dragon chuckled. That boy truly was a free spirit, taking after his mother. Dragon was looking forward to the delightful storm that Luffy would surely bring.

0000

Now, as everyone was busy in town, Mohji and Richie had made their way down to the docks trying to find Luffy's ship. It was miserable. Rain was coming down in buckets; and the wind was pushing them around.

Richie limped and stumbled as he carried a few crates of dynamite, and Mohji quickly reached out to help steady him.

"Once we find that guys ship, I'll treat you to a steak dinner." Mohji promised, and Richie rumbled in anticipation.

It turned out that Luffy's crew had gotten a new ship. Plus, it was clearly theirs given that there was a skull wearing a rather obnoxious straw-hat on the flag and sail.

Mohji smirked as he and Richie tried boarding the ship to plant the dynamite – except – there was a loud *bang* and both the Beast Tamer and the lion were thrown several feet away. They both now sported several cuts and scrapes – and – what on the Grand Line was that smell?!

The stench permeated around them, and poor Richie began rubbing at his face with his paws. Mohji balked when he realized that the two of them were covered in neon-orange paint. Even in the pouring rain, the stuff wasn't coming off.

There was a lot of yelling just then, and Mohji saw the Straw-Hats running to their ship. They completely ignored him. He watched as Gaara jumped onto the ship first and let down a path of sand for everyone to climb on board. Mohji also noticed that they had already gotten a few new members.

They were pushing off, and Richie cursed because they hadn't even done anything to Straw-Hat's ship.

The Beast Tamer hadn't even noticed why they were shouting. Mohji pulled himself to his feet, and was ready to attack when he was unceremoniously shoved to the ground. The smell of cigar smoke was above him, and he felt a hand on his head and around his arm.

"Halt right there, Beast Tamer."

"You!" Mohji realized that quite unfortunately, there were several Marines surrounding them.

Several of them had already tied Richie up and had taken care of the dynamite.

"Smoker-san!" a young woman said, facing Richie. "The Straw-Hats are escaping! What are your orders?"

"I'm right here, Tashigi." Smoker drawled as he cuffed Mohji. "There's no chance of us capturing them now, so let's head back to Base and process this guy."

Mohji cursed as he was dragged away. He wondered what had happened to Buggy and Alvida since Luffy was escaping Smoker.

Richie pouted as he loped alongside the Marines; with several ropes tied around his muzzle and neck, and Tashigi felt sorry for the poor lion. It looked as if it had gotten pretty beat up recently. The Marines would more than likely decide to kill it, since lions were pretty dangerous.

Mohji seemed to be thinking along the same lines as Tashigi, because he was yelling and cursing at the Marines to not hurt a single hair on Richie's head.

0000

Back at the Marine Base:

"We're going to go after them." Smoker determined, and Tashigi looked shocked.

"You don't mean to leave your post, Sir?" she asked, dismayed.

"I don't have a choice." Smoker replied. "That kid was about to die…and he smiled. Just like he did back then."

Gold Rodger had had that smile, even after death. His body hadn't slumped forward like everyone else who was executed with that method always did. It had remained ramrod straight; as if refusing to bow to the world. The Marines had to physically put the Pirate King into lying position to cart him off.

Tashigi wasn't sure why someone smiling before death was such a big deal. But…if going after this Monkey person also meant going after Zoro…

"Alright. I…I have to make a phone call…so, I'll take care of that then gather my things…"

"Oh, and here," Smoker pulled a glasses case out of his desk drawer and handed it to Tashigi, who blushed in embarrassment.

"Thank you, Sir…" Tashigi said quietly as she put on the glasses.

"Oi, Tashigi?" Smoker looked at her with concern, obvious only through how he merely raised an eyebrow. "Are you alright?"

"Roronoa Zoro has something that shouldn't belong to him." Tashigi said cryptically as she turned to leave. She tripped, and quickly caught herself. Tashigi saluted, and then left, closing the door behind her.

Smoker wondered if he should be worried. He hadn't seen Tashigi look so upset, angry and distracted before. He hoped that she could focus on what was important.

0000

Tashigi sighed as she sullenly stared at the Den-Den Mushi as she shut the door to the phone booth. Taking a deep breath to prepare herself for the following conversation, she dialed a number and waited.

"Buri, buri, buri…" after a few more rings, a young girl's voice answered, "Isshin Dojo, this is Kaori! How can I help ya?"

"Can…can you get Koshiro-sensei for me, please? Tell him it's Tashigi."

"Okay."

There was the sound of the receiver being set down, and the shuffling of footsteps. After several agonizingly long minutes, Koshiro's voice came on, "Tashigi? Are you alright?"

"Uncle Koshiro…I…I met Zoro today." Tashigi replied, and she cursed how her voice shook. But she had to know. "Why'd you give him Wado Ichimonji?He's not even part of our family."

There was silence, then… "I see. First of all, it as I told you: he asked if he could have it after Kuina…after she died. Second, Zoro may not be blood but he is family."

Zoro wasn't family to her.

"You could have at least let me have a chance at wielding Wado! Not him! What makes him so special that you'd just give something like that away?!"

"We've had this conversation before. You know the answer to that. His resolve and his promise to Kuina. Wado Ichimonji is a Named Blade…if he was not meant to wield it then it would have rejected him within the first few weeks of having it."

"So you think I'm not good enough to wield it?" Tashigi accused. She didn't stop the tears from flowing and her voice choked. Wado Ichimonji was right there, and it hadn't chosen her. So she said the thing she had often told herself when she first learned of what happened to Kuina's Blade. "Zoro has no right to that sword!"

"And who are you to determine that?"

It wasn't said cruelly; it was simply a question. A part of Tashigi wanted it to be said with some sort of maliciousness so she could feel justified in her anger and yell – and not be the only emotional one in this conversation.

Even as she said it, Tashigi felt like the petty, snot-nosed child tattling to an adult about another child that had taken a toy that she wanted. It didn't help that her voice cracked on various words. "Uncle, do you know that he's a Pirate and he was a Bounty Hunter? He's using Wado for nefarious purposes! He's taking everything that the sword represents and dragging it through the mud!"

"You know how Named Blades are. If it didn't approve of how he uses it, it would have sought out a new owner already."

"I'm going to take it back from him." Tashigi determined, because denying that Wado would actually let itself be used in such a manner…it was somehow easier.

There was a tired sigh on the other end, followed by, "I don't think that is wise, Tashigi. Zoro is…" he didn't say it, more skilled, much stronger, but he didn't need to. "He has a powerful sense of determination, and going up against him at your level…he won't kill you, but..."

"So that's what this is about?! My skills?!"

"It's not about your skill; but rather your convictions. As someone who has studied Named Blades and someone who has trained in Sword's Spirit, you know how dangerous these things can be."

Tashigi sucked in a breath, not liking the truth of Koshiro's words. What was wrong with her convictions? What made Zoro's so different?!

Tashigi dared to ask the thing that had been bothering her ever since she learned of Koshiro giving Wado away. "Was it because I have Kuina's face and none of her skills?"

"Tashigi, no. It isn't like that, not at all. It's…" Koshiro sounded tired. She could understand, because they had talked about this topic in frustrating circles. But now, she had added something new to the conversation. "What happened with Kuina will always be one of my biggest regrets. But that day…Zoro needed Wado Ichimonji."

"People like him don't deserve swords like that." Tashigi said venomously, putting emphasis on certain words. "I'll reclaim Wado Ichimonji, along with every Named Blade that criminals like Pirates use."

"That would be unwise. Even if you could claim those swords, you know how selfish a Named Blade can be. Would you leave them to collect dust? You know what happened to those who got selfish and tried to collect the Blades – simply for bragging rights."

Nasty Curses were reputed to be connected to Named Blades; a sword that while it wasn't necessarily alive, was in a way sentient. A Blade could turn on its owner if they came across an opponent with something the person wielding it didn't have but the sword liked.

There were stories of Nobles, Kings, Lords, even Pirates; those who made it their mission to collect the most infamous Named Blades simply because they wanted the prestige connected to them. To show off a rare collection that was a deadly conquest. To be able to brag about the opponents defeated.

But terrible things followed those who collected Named Blades and wouldn't or couldn't use them. It was said that entire once peaceful countries burned to the blood-soaked ground as the Blades sought out new owners amongst its conquerors. The Nobles who had the money to buy entire countries were soon no different than the starving peasants living on the streets. The Pirate Captains who built up a terrifying force that could rival countries – only to be taken down in a simple ocean storm, or a slaughter with rival Pirates.

Those who took on a Named Blade had to take into account that the sword liked to be used. Someone who trained in Sword's Spirit was able to hear the desires of a sword – or any bladed weapon really, if it had something regular swords didn't – such as a Name or a Curse attached to it. Those who trained in Sword's Spirit had a connection with their bladed weapons that was different from every other Swordsman.

Tashigi paused…Zoro had three swords; and all three of them were Named with one holding a Curse. It should be impossible for him of such a feat! It was insane! If Zoro knew Sword's Spirit then he would know how insanely dangerous that was! Did he have a death wish?! But… Sandai Kitetsu hadn't cut off his arm – and she could have sworn she felt amusement from the Blade at Zoro taking such a daring risk.

Getting back on track, Tashigi didn't want to think about what Zoro had done. This was about him and Wado!

"I won't be hoarding them, I have no intention of that!" Tashigi insisted, "There are a few hundred Marines who are incredibly skilled Swordsmen, and they have a strong sense of Justice. The swords won't be shoved somewhere to collect dust and rust!"

There was silence. Maybe she had convinced him of her position? Maybe he understood? Koshiro hadn't liked what the Marines stood for – yes, she knew that sometimes the Marines could be overzealous in carrying out what needed to be done, but – surely he'd understand? He hadn't verbally objected to her joining, but there had been the disapproving frown when she told him what she wanted to do after graduating his dojo, even if it was there just for a second.

She had proved she had a right to use Shigure, but it still wasn't Wado Ichimonji. Her mother had only been somewhat disappointed that it had been given away to someone who wasn't a blood-related family member. But Tashigi's mother's skills with a blade hadn't been inherited – all of that had gone to her older sister.

Maybe some deity out there knew that her mother wouldn't have any interest in swords and deemed it best to not let such a blessed gift go to waste. So her mother didn't really understand or care, why Wado Ichimonji being given away so casually was such a big deal.

Finally, Koshiro spoke, "You have no right to claim how and where you think a Blade like that should be used. You know a Named Blade chooses their owner and will turn on those they deem no longer worthy. That its loyalty will change the moment it comes across someone who aligns with its interests." A beat of silence, then he added, "Would you really sentence so many people to death?"

It was why Mihawk could wield that bloodthirsty Black Blade so easily; even though he wasn't going around slaughtering innocent bystanders. He used the Blade, yes, but it was his spirit and skill the sword respected. It was said the Black Blade demanded blood, but Mihawk could hold the Blade back and not give in to its whims.

Anyone who willingly let a Blade control their actions were terrifying – and those who were unaware of the Blade controlling them…to be a puppet to your own sword was nothing short of nightmarish. Those who were controlled by their Blades were essentially addicted to the sword and bent to its every whim.

"While I'm not going to stop you as it isn't my place; I would advise you to truly consider what you are trying to do. Trying to claim a Named Blade simply because you personally don't like how it's being used isn't a strong enough reason for a Blade to turn against its wielder. Anyone who could have it taken away so easily doesn't deserve to wield such a sword in the first place."

"Am I never going to be good enough?" Tashigi whispered, tears rolling down her face as doubt crashed down on her. "You personally trained me, so…what am I doing wrong?"

A heavy sigh, and from the sound on the other side of the phone, Tashigi wondered if Koshiro had removed his glasses to massage his eyes the way he did when he was trying to explain something.

"You need to reevaluate your goal – are you upset about how the Blades are being used, or who is wielding them? There are some Marines who will more than happily take on a Blade that thirsts for blood; they'll suite each other perfectly."

His tone was somewhat harsh and clearly disapproving. The Marines again – it was one thing of many it seemed, they couldn't agree on. Koshiro could control his anger so infuriatingly easily, but she could hear it in his voice – but there was also something else; a commanding tone when he was trying to teach a difficult lesson.

Tashigi wanted to argue, but Koshiro wasn't done.

"So I ask you, what is the difference between a Marine who claims that he's upholding True Justice on a battlefield soaked with children's blood and a Pirate who slaughters the innocent?"

"We…they have to do what's necessary sometimes…" Tashigi argued weakly, but yet…she had asked herself that question often enough when she heard of the Marines' exploits. It was always justified, somehow, and the Government patted themselves on the back for a job well-done.

"What about Ohara? Or Flevance? Because they wear a uniform they're justified in the slaughtering of innocent thousands?"

Of course they were justified! The scholars of Ohara were trying to find out how they could utilize an Ancient Weapon to destroy the world. And as for Flevance, as unfortunate as it was, they couldn't let a contagious disease run rampant. It had to be contained. But somehow, those arguments seemed so weak. If Tashigi did bring them up, Koshiro would find ways to refute them.

'Look underneath the underneath,' as he often said.

So she stayed silent.

Mostly.

*sniff* *hiccup!*

Koshiro sighed yet again, "I should apologize…I shouldn't pile my personal feelings about the Marines onto you, Tashigi. That's not a responsibility you should bear. I need you to understand – not all Marines have the heart that you do; and they lack the convictions that is so desperately needed."

Koshiro was silent, for a moment. "…I'm glad that you are among their ranks, Tashigi. The Marines – they – they need more people like you."

Tashigi was crying, because those words meant so much.

"I'm sorry that you didn't get your chance with Wado Ichimonji, but – Zoro has a powerful sense of conviction and he's carrying the weight of a promise to Kuina. I would not have given him that sword if I had any doubts of his abilities. You are certainly skilled in your own right and have incredible ambition that is to be admired. But if you were to go up against Zoro as you are now, you would lose.

"You may have to accept that Zoro isn't the mountain you have to overcome. Your grandfather told me that when we reach our personal mountain, we'll simply know it – and it all depends on how we respond once we reach it."

It was a painful truth. And it was difficult to accept.

"You need to look at what you want and why – and determine how you are going to accomplish your goal. Please, Tashigi, I'm begging you…don't repeat my mistakes.

"And Tashigi…you may still have a lot of growing to do, but you are an excellent Swordswoman. You would have made your grandfather proud. Even though we have our differences…I'm proud of you."

Tashigi sucked in a breath, not expecting to hear that at all.

"Take care of yourself."

*click*

Seeing as the snail had gone back to sleep, Tashigi hung up the receiver and just stared ahead at nothing. It was a bittersweet feeling.

Tashigi felt exhausted and defeated. One part of the conversation made her want to curl up into a ball in bed and just cry about the unfairness of it all. Sometimes, talking to Uncle Koshiro was like a fount of wisdom and gushing about swords; other times, it was angrily debating i.e. arguing about the Marines and their brand of Justice. As long as their conversations stayed away from the Marines and the World Government, their chats were actually fairly pleasant.

But, it was different this time.

Maybe…maybe Tashigi would call him again – in a few months. Or maybe when she reclaimed Wado – just to say that she had done it. To have proven him wrong. She desperately wanted Zoro to be her mountain. But Zoro wouldn't even acknowledge her; and Wado hadn't even turned on him in her presence.

Tashigi felt exhausted. One part of her didn't feel as if she had accomplished a damn thing; while the other felt happy at Koshiro's words. Yet another was confused, because she didn't know how to feel about the possibility of Zoro not being her mountain to overcome.

Zoro had Kuina's sword – and he was carrying out her will, or whatever. But Kuina had been her cousin. Why hadn't she heard Wado? She was right there next to Wado Ichimonji three times, and it hadn't once made a sound the first two times.

The third time, though…as she thought about it…Wado Ichimonji had a happy, teasing hum in its undertones.

Tashigi covered her face with her hands as she began to cry, because the Blade that should have been hers when Kuina died had clearly claimed its owner; and would not let anything happen to him anytime soon.

Because…Zoro had had something special with Kuina that she apparently didn't. Zoro, who had been able to encourage her cousin in ways that Tashigi never did. Because Zoro had something special with Koshiro; who saw him as a family member. Because Wado had chosen Zoro over her, and with his skills…he wielded that precious Blade along with two other Named Blades, one of which was Cursed.

Because Tashigi was forced to face the reality that she was so far behind. She had advanced through the ranks in her training, and was praised. But yet…she couldn't help but compare herself to Zoro – some guy she had only heard of through letters and stories from her uncle and fellow students; and met for all of five minutes – and he had taken over aspects of her life; essentially replacing her.

The adults in her life – minus Koshiro – had always compared her to Kuina. It had annoyed her, yes. She was always having to play catch up with Kuina; because Kuina had set an example. Now, Tashigi was comparing herself to Zoro – and she hated it.

Why was it always all about Zoro?!

0000

She quickly made her way to the ladies room to wash her face, but even then…when she saw Smoker about twenty minutes later, he took one look at her and held nothing back.

"You look awful." Smoker's brows furrowed and he studied her. Puffy eyes and red nose; a clear sign of something emotional happening "Are you really alright?"

"I…" Tashigi didn't know what to say, if anything. This would probably come up, somehow, one day, one way or another. It would be best to tell him now, so that there wouldn't be any surprises later. "Can this stay just between us?"

Smoker nodded and motioned to go ahead.

Sigh. "Roronoa Zoro is my cousin."

Smoker's brows shot up, nearly disappearing into his hairline. His tone was incredulous as he asked, "Phantom Blade Roronoa Zoro?"

"Well, sort of – not by blood – my uncle adopted him, apparently." Tashigi's tone showed clear resentment and anger, somewhat surprising Smoker; because he had never seen this side of her before.

Smoker sighed heavily as he collapsed into his desk chair. "Was there any indication of that in your records?"

"It was unofficially, I suppose. But I don't know for sure." Tashigi replied, determinedly fighting back more tears. "I didn't know it was him…"

"That's a good thing, then. Your ignorance can sometimes be your innocence in cases like this." Smoker said, knowing that there was more of a story there. But he would ask later, and wouldn't push it. "If Roronoa has joined forces with this Pirate…and depending on the actions that he takes, the Government may just start paying close attention to Crescent Island, or even you."

The implications of that…it was well known the actions the Government had taken after Rodger's execution. If there was any suspected relation, no matter what the capacity, the Marines might find Tashigi guilty of treason with that fact alone. It made her scared and angry – because what if suddenly forced itself into her already strained thoughts.

"Do not tell anyone about your relation to Roronoa – I need to go take care of some paperwork before we go."

"Didn't you already do so, Sir?" Tashigi questioned with confusion.

"This is last minute bullshit our hard-ass superiors will demand." Smoker said as he slammed the door.

000

Smoker lit two fresh cigars and puffed on them angrily. Smoker was a rather interesting member of the Marines. He had admired them from afar in his younger days; but he also had been in his fair share of bar fights and had seen the inside of a jail cell more than once.

So, while he was an upstanding member of the World Government's Navy Branch; he wasn't exactly an honest one. Smoker made his way to records, where he knew all the files for the recruits were kept. If he had to, it would be easy to smudge things on Tashigi's file. Just enough that it wouldn't be noticeable and no-one would question anything.

Tashigi and her uncle didn't share a last name, and she wasn't from the same island, so that was good. Smoker checked and double-checked everything pertaining to Tashigi's extended family – and fortunately, Chikuma Koshiro was all that the records stated he was; a widower who was the head of a dojo in East Blue.

There were more things; he seemed to have escaped Wano even after it had closed off its borders, and sadly, there was a deceased daughter – but nothing indicating that he had officially adopted Roronoa Zoro. There was no mention him. Smoker took in a relieved breath, and fortunately, his Moku-Moku fruit let him take in deep breaths of cigar smoke without the burning, sickening side effects to his lungs.

He returned the records to their place, and went to make sure that everything was ready for their voyage.

00000

Next Time: Kakashi: A Promising Team

An Author's Rambles:

There wasn't really much I could add with the others' adventures in Loguetown. The stuff with Tashigi will be important later.

The relationship between Koshiro and Tashigi is an interesting one. Tashigi's drive to claim Wado is much stronger here; but sometimes, you have to learn to let things go. The plans you made for your life are hardly ever what you intended them to be.

Smoker is more than willing to fudge a few records for Tashigi's sake if he has to. They shouldn't lose out on a decent Marine over a few familial connections.

Koshiro dislikes the Marines so much because they remind him of what he left behind in Konoha. Thus, why he's willing to help the Revolutionaries. He's worried about Tashigi becoming a child-killer like him; abandoning her allies for the sake of following the rules; or disgraced like Sakumo, or bitter and angry like Kakashi who resented the people around him.

Koshiro is genuinely trying to give Tashigi advice, but she has to get passed some of her own hurdles before she can truly understand. Koshiro isn't angry at Tashigi, he's angry at the Marines/WG and he can be a bit harsh when it comes to an organization like the Marines. He's still bitter about the Hatake family and Sakumo's team.

He's likely also frustrated with himself for not doing more, and he simply wants Tashigi to hear and actually listen. But Tashigi is stubborn and very driven. Sadly, the relationship between uncle and niece is somewhat strained in places.

About Hayabusa: a reference to Ryu Hayabusa in Ninja Gaiden. There was a reviewer who mentioned it, and I apologize that I can't remember who it was – but here's to you and thank you for your idea.

About living/sentient swords/bladed weapons:

You have a regular sword and then there are Named Blades: these are swords (or bladed weapons) that have been forged using none-traditional means/being wielded in violence/upholding

– over time, the swords became sentient in their own way. When people put their heart and soul into their work, it can be quite literally.

Kusanagi is a legendary Japanese sword, and it often appears in media.

000

Kuudere: Emotionless, cold, and distant. On the rare occasional that a kuudere does speak, they tend to be very blunt and cynical. A blank face and a flat voice is a must. Despite their icy nature, kuudere characters are capable of caring and forming romantic bonds.

Kamidere: Arrogant, proud, and sporting a god complex. They believe everyone should treat them as divine beings, and will force their views on everyone.

Hinedere: Takes the icy nature of the kuudere and combines it with the arrogant attitude of the kamidere. Hinedere characters are very cynical and sarcastic, but will show their soft side when a character breaks through their shell. They are a new archetype and may see more popularity if the anime's cynical trend continues.