Author's disclaimer: I do not own One Piece! Hey everyone chapter 2 is done. So before I get into it, I want to thank some of you for reminding me some of Luffy's move sets like Jet Pistol, being in his second gear. As well informing me how it is Coby and not Colby.

Considering I am reading the manga version of One piece. As its quicker for me to get refresher of the start of the series. The translations in the chapters are bit rough around the edges, considering they call Coby "Colby" and Zoro "Zolo" in the chapters. So again thanks for those who took the time to remind me of this and how Luffy move sets were in Second gear.

I welcome this kind of help as I know, I might get things wrong here or there. Or might remember them incorrectly.

Also please consider this, if your paring is not in this story. Do not go and call my story a failure just because your pairing is not in this story. Makes you sound like you will only read a story, just because your favorite paring is in it. Makes you sound shallow and inconsiderate to the author, who is going out of their way to write a fanfic for everyone to have fun reading and enjoying, what the author take of the series will be like.

So be respectful of the authors decision and choice alright?

Anyway, as for this chapter. I was planning on ending it with Luffy finding the sword for this chapter. But considering how long it was getting and I generally don't write chapters that go beyond 30 plus pages. Minus some occasion like Different Tale of Ash Ketchum specials.

I decided to end it in a different way, with a character making their appearance instead. So the next chapter and I really hate saying this, Chapter 3. Will finish off the rest of Chapter 2 and move onto the next arc of One Piece. Usually I don't like separating plot's into multiple chapters. So I try and do my best, writing all I can before hitting that 30 page mark. Without having to separate a main plot, into for example...5 chapters.

But something tells me that I will have to accept this for One piece XD. Considering how deep they can be. So yeah, also I forgot to take into effect of showing Kuina's back story as that took a big presence for this chapter.

So yeah, without further adieu, hope you all have fun and enjoy!

Also, I might have spelled Morgan son's name wrong...

xxx

Chapter 2: Luffy and the Female Pirate Hunter, Kuina!

Sounds of large group of children chanting out a word. Following behind sound of weapons being swung and clattering. Making quite an echoing effect within the large seemingly dojo that is housing about twenty to thirty students in lines of five. With one of them being quite noticeable out of the group. A young blue hair shoulder length girl, wearing a white t shirt dojo outfit. Followed by the traditional Japanese style like training sweat pants.

As she is in tune and timing of her swings with the other students. Somewhat eldest of the group and daughter of said owner of the dojo. Her name is Kuina! A young female who inspires to becoming one of the strongest female swordsmen of the world. Too show that females too can also become strong in the ways of the sword. A long life dream she had ever since being a young child, and her father- despite bringing her to the dojo and teaching her the swordsmen way?

Always reminds the young girl fruitlessly of how men will and can out power her in the ways of the sword. Being told how it just how it is with both genders. Those words always echo through her head whenever she felt doubt and tend to show bit of frustration, when she began going bit faster than the other students. Eyes hardening a bit and beginning to grit her teeth- not paying much attention of what she is doing and about to hit a student in front of her, on the back of their head. Only to catch herself an time when someone began shouting out towards the entrance of the dojo. Alerting her father and having him go investigate, in which Kuina; after directing her attention away from him.

Look forward and played it cool by sliding ever lightly back, so it wouldn't look like she is about to hit the boy in front of her. Having her sigh out and closing her eyes. "So what if men can be physically stronger than females. It doesn't mean I can't become strong, becoming a great swordswoman in the future." Kuina thought to herself while relaxing her grip on the bamboo sword and gave a small sigh. "If father is adamant about that statement and believes it to be true. Then why bother teaching your daughter the way of the sword, if your going to constantly remind her of this fact."

The girl then rested the sword to her side and gently let out a frustrated sigh. Hearing her father speaking and talking to someone down the hall. Her attention move towards the bamboo sword she is holding, glaring lightly down at it with her blue eyes. "I will show them and prove to them that women can be strong with the swords. Whether they like it or not." Then turn her attention towards the class's doorway when she heard.

"Kuina, come." Her father called out towards her and had the girl shaking her head and then nods. Walking by the many students in the room. Who began moving out of her way and watching her out towards the hall. In turn having the girl step down on the floor and raise her head, opening her eyes to see who it is that is bothering them.

"Huh...it's a kid?" She pondered to herself and looked over the slightly dirty looking boy. Having bright green short hair, and two piece dojo uniform that of dark green. Wearing quite the cocky and proud expression on his face. "Yes father?" Kuina asked while turning to the man and approaching him.

Watching her dad smile and laugh, "This young man has come challenging our dojo. And believes he can defeat us and take our dojo signs." Informed the man and turn around towards the young boy. Who look bit surprised that he will be facing a girl, watching her approach next to her father and stare back at him. "His name is Zoro correct?"

"YES! And I'm here to defeat your strongest warrior and claim the dojo sign!" Declared the green moss hair boy. Having Kuina twitching one eye a bit at the bold statement he made. Then closes her eyes believing he will throw a tantrum when he figures out who he is going to fight. "Even if its a girl or boy, doesn't matter to me." Which cause her to open her eyes widely and then tilt her head. "Long I get to fight strong warriors then it is fine by me!"

"Well then your in luck." The father chuckle while fixing up his black hair. "Kuina here my daughter; is quite the strong fighter of this dojo. She been training ever since being young. I can honestly say that you will definitely have a tough time with her." Tease the father and laughed lightly.

The group will then be back in the large dojo room. With the father recalling what the deal was and which Zoro, after being asked if he would lose? Claimed he will join the dojo- much to Kuina's dismay but find it honorable that he will do that. Having the girl walk on over towards the bamboo swords and grabs one of them out from the barrel and walks over to the open space. Taking note that the other students of the class were all sitting down in a single file line on the east and west side of the room.

All crossed leg and waiting for whatever about to happen go down. Then began murmuring to one another that didn't go unnoticed by Kuina, who gritted her teeth. "If it is true what he said about taking out four dojo's, what kind of chances does Kuina have?" Asked one of the boys.

"Who knows considering she is the only female in this class and being taught by her father. Makes me wonder if he is just doing it, to please her wishes knowing that not everything will go her way." Said another boy.

"But Kuina is strong why would anyone doubt her strength and speed? I doubt this kid even knows what's he's getting into." stated a shaky tone voice boy. And then the small group began snickering to each other.

"Cause everyone knows that men are stronger than women. I think he's just doing it because he feels pity for her." Whispered another one while then cockily claims. "If anything he is just slowing down the inevitable for Kuina, with Kuina having this deluded facts that woman can be strong like men."

Having the girl shoulder's tighten slightly while doing her best not to shake or tremble. "After all, the girl loses her temper sometimes and let's her emotions run rampant whenever she gets flustered or frustrated when someone begins over powering her."

"Really how so!?" Asked one of the boys as Kuina, went ahead and focus on the green hair kid in front of her. Not wanting to listen anymore or hear their voices, figuring to drown them out instead and focus the task at hand. Unaware of scheming eyes lurking in the back and staring towards her with hatred.

Though Kuina nearly spit out a laugh when she watches Zoro come on out with ridiculous amount of swords! Even some in his mouth, making the girl completely forget about the whispers and hears her father speaking up. "Alright then bow to one another in respect." He said and watched the two doing so, with weapons falling out from Zoro's group. "Then bow in respect to the sensei." He continued and watched the two do so, with more weapons clattering down onto the wooden floors.

Getting some of the students to snort or chuckle among themselves. Then go silent when Kuina and Zoro faced towards one another with the father shouting begin! Watching the boy beginning to rush on over towards the girl, with his defenses sadly...being left open in all spots. Especially the crucial part of the body to which Kuina stayed focus and steady herself. Before slamming her sword hard into his head!

Causing him to go flying backwards a bit in complete shock and awe, causing all the weapons in his hands and mouth to pile around him with him sliding across the floor. Having Kuina to shake her head lightly, "You left your head wide open." She stated calmly and did her best to not chuckle at the frustrated look he had. Before widening her eyes in disbelief, of him standing back up and holding two swords!

"It's not over yet, I can still fight!" Shouted Zoro while gripping tightly on the swords in his hands. Surprising everyone there of his stance and how firm it seemed of holding two weapons at once. Making Kuina to lightly bite her lower lip, hoping he is bluffing about using two handed weapons. Or the two sword style.

"When did you learn..." Then her eyes went to dots and blinks in kind of a 'you serious' moment when the boy crouches lightly down and bending his knees. Replying back to the girl by saying.

"I wouldn't know this is my first time using the style!" And charges right towards Kuina, who righted herself again and notice he is leaving his head wide open once more. Though when she went to swing downward? Zoro eye glinted and swiftly raised his two swords above his head, defending himself from her downward strike! The boy and girl gritted their teeth trying to out power each other, only for Kuina to feel her sword being flung upward from the boy.

Making her to step back lightly and quickly defend herself from the right sword, coming from her left, then the left sword coming from her right. She step back again, then once more as Zoro seemed to begin putting pressure on the girl with the two style. Only for it to immediately backfire; Kuina took advantage of his cockiness when he began relaxing his swings and hits once more against the boy's forehead!

Which he block once, but then widen his eyes when he stumble back when the girl used the force of the block. Too jump into the air and swinging her sword hard back down towards his face! Giving out a small battle cry and breaking through his two swords and makes contact to his face! Causing everyone there to wince and hiss out from the powerful hit the girl landed, watching Zoro get flown back away from the girl. Having Zoro stare bewilderment towards the classroom ceiling, while doing his best to ignore the massive stinging pain going down his face.

"Enough that ends the match." The father announced and smiled, looking towards Kuina. Taking note of how surprised she looked of winning against someone wielding two swords. He was no fool, he noticed Kuina struggling when Zoro began powering her and pressuring her. But the girl, his daughter adapted swiftly and took advantage of Zoro's sudden change in body behavior and took the win. Having him be very proud of the girl and knew had nothing to worry about. Even chuckling on the inside of how ironic it is.

How he been treating her lately or more of- giving her false hope of becoming a strong swordswoman. On the account that men are generally physically stronger than females. Despite if the two kids might be the same age. Kuina fought against someone who is...well, sort of capable of handling their two style stance. "And young man, do you-"

"Yeah, I'll join." Zoro grumbled out. "A deal is a deal." He stated and then sat up. Glaring towards Kuina who glared back, then beginning to smirk when Zoro smirk towards her. But quickly thrusts a finger, "But that is until I can beat your cheating daughter!" He called out. Causing Kuina to nearly trip forward and rapidly faces at the boy raising her voice.

"Don't be such a sore loser! I didn't cheat at all, your just pathetic!" She retorted back and the two began clashing their foreheads to one another. Going back and forth of how bad this person did, or how the other took advantage of their inexperience...but surprisingly for the father. He knew it was all an act, figuring Zoro did that just to show even his daughter is still a child.

Making even the students to laugh and chuckle at the two of them. Feeling lot more relaxed and calm from before, to even seeing Kuina in a different light now. Forgetting how she is just like them, a child- who is probably training and becoming a swordswoman is a way to respect not only her father. But possibly this school, gaining lot of attention and then laughing when Kuina and Zoro pushed against each other forehead...only to then start laughing uncontrollably from Kuina side with a confused Zoro.

"What...I'm being serious about beating you." And just had the girl laughing some more and pulls away. Heading on out and figuring to wash up for the day and head home. Knowing that Zoro will definitely keep his word and do everything he can to defeating her.

Xxx

And she was right cause soon after the next day had come. The boy challenged her to a fight, soon as they locked eyes. Making Kuina to sigh and accept his challenge and fought him at the dojo...same results as the first fight. Two strikes to the forehead and face and the boy was down, forcing him to forfeit the match considering she had him by the tip of her wooden sword.

The third match got bit different where the boy began weaving and moving side to side, in order to switch up his way of fighting. Having Kuina to adjust and move her sword in a way that arguing with her bodies muscle, even nearly losing her grip on the sword. When Zoro managed to land a small hit against her wrist- that caused the boy to pause slightly. Then widen his eyes at how swift the girl drop to the floor, grabbing her sword right before it hits the ground. Slam one hand onto the floor, using it to swing her body around Zoro and gets onto her knees to deliver a downward strike to his back!

Surprising everyone in the room of how quick she pulled that off! Even her father was shock at the girl's movements and how she did not miss a beat when she lost her sword. Though everyone felt sorry for Zoro when he slammed into the floor face first. Having Kuina nearly freaking out about injuring the boy only to then let out a breath of relief, when the one missing tooth boy flinched his head to the side and groan out.

"Rematch..." then faints on the floor.

Xxx

Been like that for a week now and Kuina can say this. The boy is quite stubborn and determined of defeating her. But also becoming in a odd sort of way, friends to each other through these rematches and surprisingly helping one another out on how to fight properly with their styles. Kuina especially, through these rematches she began noticing how slow Zoro has become as of lately, in fact everything around her becoming slower when she begins fighting and rematch the kid?

That she went and asked her father why it is that the world, seem to slow down for her. With the father looking at her in surprised and hummed curiously. The girl who is waiting for the boy this late at night, feeling the night breeze blowing through her short hair and clothes. Gently closes her eyes and smiles softly from what her dad said: "I believe what's happening Kuina, is that your style is starting to bloom. Even though it may not feel like your physically getting stronger with the sword. But the sword style your learning is finally showing itself. You see Kuina, there is a reason why I am teaching you the one sword style. And not only because it suits your body type but-"

Kuina then open her eyes and having a confident smile, while raising her hand up to her left breast and repeat what it is he told her. "One sword style is more speed focus and my body build is meant for speed, not power." She stated and lifted her hand away from her white shirt and stared at her slightly bruised palms. From wielding the swords for many years and learning the wrong way of using the style. "That's why I feel pain whenever holding the sword wrong, that's why my strikes aren't meant for take downs or out right over powering my enemies." Then giggled as she closed her hands.

"I am a speed type! My sword style is all about swiftly disarming my enemies and then finishing them. That's why it's been easy beating Zoro as of lately." And laughed with a soft blush. "Zoro will be quite happy to know I found my style-" Her train of thought got interrupted when she heard foot steps in the distance. Ready to turn and knowing how it is, to face Zoro- but froze in place when the steps became more than two feet. No, it sounded like a group of people walking through the fields and heading her direction.

The girl turned slowly in the direction the group were walking from and widened her eyes in fear. They were pirates! All laughing and chuckling to themselves, smiling wickedly at the girl while raising up their swords from their sheath and began lightly licking their lips at the girl. "There she is, I believe that's the boss said to go and kill."

"Kill..." Kuina repeated and took a step back. Feeling her body trembling and shaking in fear, there must be like six pirates in the group all readying their swords.

"Honestly we could just sell her off and make her a slave, but considering she made a fool out of the boss's son during sword lesson. We have to do it and kill her off." Chuckle one of the men who began moving faster than the others. Watching the way Kuina's eyes shrank and tried to grab her sword, but is struggling to even getting it out from the sheath, listening to the way the handle of her sword constantly getting stuck against her sides.

"Look at her trembling! She's not so tough at all, thinking she is high and mighty because she has more training than everyone in the way of the sword. But here she is, cowering in fear and acting like a baby!" Bellowed out a pirate in the back. Earning the entire bunch to laugh along with him as they began getting closer to the girl. Who continued stepping back and finally got her sword out, but winced at the difference in weight and struggled keeping it up and facing it towards the group.

"Hey maybe we can have some little fun after beating her up and before killing her. After all, he said we could do what we please with her." Chortle another man, with the others humming and looking the teen lightly. Who gulp and just shook in place, aiming her sword towards them. Then kinda felt her entire body going pale when they began looking at her with perverse eyes.

"That doesn't sound like a bad idea. No doubt she will scream nicely." Informed one of the other pirates as they have a new goal now to mess with the girl. Who began shaking her head and raising the sword even higher in fear ready to strike either one of them down if they dared touch her or forcing her to doing something she doesn't want!

Then felt her heel getting caught by a pebble and literally throwing her balance off and began falling backwards and down onto her rear. Which incentive one pirate to charge forward to begin the assault and ready to strike at the girl! Which had Kuina, widening her eyes after landing on her rear and cover herself while screaming out in fear.

Then hearing two swords clashing against one another with a loud clang, to then buckling of steel rubbing against one another and trying out power each other. Making Kuina, who is shielding herself and her face to whip her head away from her arm and gasp at the sight before her! It is Zoro! Who's protecting the girl from the sword strike and struggling to keeping the pirate away and growling irritably of how stubborn the man is being.

"Hey, I thought you wanted to be a great swordswoman!" Shouted Zoro towards the girl. Who shook out from her fear and stared at him. Watching his glaring eyes shift over to her. "Why are you cowering in fear, great swordspeople don't fear anything! They don't run from anything!" Shouted the boy and managed to throw the Pirate off balance by throwing his weight upward! Too then kicking the man in the stomach!

"Then get up and fight like a swordswoman would!" Screamed Zoro towards Kuina, while he dodges a downward slash and reflected it away from him. With Kuina shaking her head, getting her thoughts together and her senses. As well her demeanor before grabbing her dropped sword and getting back onto her two feet.

Then surprised Zoro greatly who got distracted fighting two Pirates, watched in shock at what felt like winds being blown around him, then follow by a bluish blur came passing by him and through the two Pirates he was facing. Then saw the two gasping out and slightly screaming in pain before collapsing down into the ground! With Kuina holding her sword outward from herself, having her eyes closed with great focus and opening them up. Turning her head lightly over her shoulder and smiled, "...Thanks Zoro."

xxx

Present day...

Kuina, who is the woman that's tied up to the execution cross in the open field of the marine bass that resides on this island. Opened her eyes halfway and felt the tears coming back again. Reliving that memory again while being hanged on this cross. Being reminded of her only weakness she showed in the past in front of her trusted friend and rival, Zoro. A boy who was wandering around the world fighting and defeating dojo's who practice the ways of the sword.

The young woman click her tongue and tightly shut her eyes, recalling what happened after Zoro came to save her. Despite them being outnumbered and overwhelmed, one of the Pirates managed to get through her defenses and ready to stab the girl right through the chest! But didn't, at the last second before the strike could be delivered and sever the girl? Zoro pushes Kuina right out of the way and shoving her down towards the ground, taking the tip of the sword through his own chest and then screamed loudly in pain, when the pirate twisted the sword and pulled it out roughly!

Ending Zoro's life right there...with little life left and the girl losing her emotions. Went and grabs onto the boy's bloody body and began begging him to not leave! To not die on her, or let it end this way. It was the most horrible day she ever had in her life, she lost her only friend and potential rival who both promised each other. That they would become great swordsman and swordswoman; but the dream was taking from Zoro- who despite dying in her arms. Managed to explain and tell Kuina the situation or why the pirates were coming after her.

The woman sighed and tighten her chained up hands into fists. Growling to herself and opening her eyes towards the gates of the prison she is in. "Whoever that bastard was that had his father, coming to kill me and my father. Will pay for taking his dream away from him..." She told herself.

After learning it not only did the girl lose her entire sense of emotion when Zoro body went cold on her. But her mental state broke and had the girl waking the monster within her, the strength she always craved for being a swordswoman; went and picked up her father's sword she brought with her to fight against Zoro that night. And just completely lost it and brutally murder the men that were boasting about killing her friend, with such speed that she couldn't comprehend or didn't bother to understand what was happening.

The pirates were screaming and begging for their lives, making the slightly blood cover young girl to just glare at them and responded back with; "Murderers don't get second chances, not with me." And just continued slicing and killing them on the spot. By the time her father and some of the villagers finally got to her and Zoro's meeting place. All they could do was stare in disbelief at the sight before them with Kuina wailing and screaming at the top of her lungs! Cover in blood from killing the pirates, while holding Zoro close to her body, her head raised high towards the heavens screaming up to the gods.

Kuina remember the looks everyone had on the girl, after they went and made a burial for the boy. Some were scared of her and pondered how a very young teenager was able to subdue four pirates on her own let alone killing them. With most of the villagers branding her to be a demon with how she mercilessly killed all those men, while some were praising her to being a hero. She doesn't see herself a hero nor a demon, she sees herself a monster.

Ever since that day holding Zoro's lifeless body and being covered in nothing but her victims blood. The girl made sure to keep her promise for Zoro, of becoming the strongest Swordwoman in the world- even if it means having to become a bounty hunter and hunting down the most dangerous of criminals.

After getting out of her thoughts and having her past being relived. The woman lifted her head up and glared towards her tormentor who stopped in front of her and stared towards her with both bit of hatred but also perversion in those eyes of his. While smirking and chuckling to himself, when the girl just grinned back. "No matter what you do, you won't break me. I will keep resisting and holding my promise for that family."

xxx

At the shipping docks of the Naval island. Luffy and Coby have arrived onto their destination, with the coordinates that Alvida's pirate group had given them. The two boy's smiled when they saw the dock approaching with Luffy at the helm. Making sure to keeping their Dinghy safe and secure when approaching the wooden boardwalk leading towards the town.

"We finally made it," Luffy started saying while watching Coby work with the mast and furling it up. "It's a good thing you know how to sail Coby. Also, thanks for teaching me how to work the compass better. Can't tell you enough how bad I am at figuring out coordinates and whatnot." Snicker the teen, watching the pink hair boy laugh and hops down onto the boat.

Turning towards Luffy, "It is basic knowledge but your very welcome!" Smiled the boy. "Least I can do for helping me out back there, not only that but also helping me come here to register up for the navy." Chuckle the young boy, getting a nod from Luffy. "Although, you sure about helping me? Once I become part of the Marines, you...and I will be."

"Don't sweat it! It's all good, after all we're friends and that's what friends do. They help each other out." Luffy said while adjusting his hat and walking over to the boy. Helping him grab the rope and swinging it over too the docks. "By the way sorry about calling you Colby." Said Luffy, while hopping onto the docks and begins tying the rope. With Coby following behind him and laughing softly, "I did not realize it was Alvida's way of just messing with you and not treating you with respect."

"It's- it's alright Luffy. I should have spoken up back then when you did started calling me Colby." Then rubs the back of his neck and look up at the smiling teen. "But then I figured since you weren't part of her crew and heard her men calling me that. You probably thought it was a nickname or my actual name."

Making Luffy to nod lightly and crossing his arms leaning onto his right leg. "Yeah, still could have told me that wasn't your name. Didn't want to hurt your feelings." He joked and patted Coby on the head. While then beginning to head to town, "Well no harm done, we should go ahead and find a restaurant to get something to eat. Before heading too the Navy base, where I can also get a look at this hunter Kuina." Stated the teen while beginning to walk forward and towards town.

With Coby following right behind him and hurring his way to his side. "You're sure about recruiting her?" He asked while looking up at Luffy, who shift his eyes down at him. "I have heard rumors about Kuina. How that people believe her to be quite the demon disguised as a woman, extremely powerful and will kill anyone at a giving moment. Even if they least expect it!"

"Yeah I know, but since you also told me she goes after Pirates with bounties on their head." Luffy began saying while bringing his arms behind his head and looking up towards the sky and smiled. "Doesn't mean she is a bad person." He bluntly stated and look back forward on the road. "I bet ya that she goes after these pirates, because of something they did that warrant the bounty or have done pretty terrible things to people."

Which had Coby raised a confused brow and tilt his head. "You think so? I thought that's how all pirates are...Ruthless and loves to cause trouble." Then chuckle when Luffy eye smiled and lifted up a finger and replied back with a rebuttal.

"Ah you are forgetting about what I said about Shanks. I mean yeah probably most of the pirates can be bad. But it doesn't mean ALL pirates are bad right?" Which he got a nod from Coby who eye smiled to him in agreement. "Right so enough chit-chat! Let's get some food and head over to base, to check out this Kuina; and then get you register." He said and walk with the boy, to then beginning to scan around the area noticing how dead quiet it seemed?

"Hmm, why do I get the feeling something is wrong here? Nobody seems to be outside and enjoying the day. Not even children are out and about?" He hummed to himself and began shifting his gaze left and right, to check out all the buildings they are walking past. Taking note some people who spotted him and Coby. Suddenly start closing their windows shut and some slamming their own windows with bit of force. Indicating that there is definitely something fishy going on in this town,

"Whatever it is might have something to do with either Kuina or the Navy base further down this road." And Luffy will be right. After finding a restaurant and head inside, while being seated. The pirate teenager felt a lot of tensions going on in the building. Taking note how everyone is behaving and looking to be quite scared and frighten about what, he is not sure of.

Though when he and Coby started mentioning about Kuina, the group of people nearly gasp and shouted in surprise and fear. Making the two boys to stare confusingly at them with a collective sweat drop. Then even more so, when Coby figured out who is running the base here and goes by the name of Captain Morgan. In which resulted the same thing with the townsfolk; they got scared and fell over from their chairs and tables. Making the two boy's to watch them again and beginning to wonder exactly what they are afraid of? More of...WHO they are afraid of, Kuina or Morgan?

Not only that but Luffy and Coby were beginning to think something afoot is happening in this town. That has the entire village scared and fearful when they hear those names. Proceeding to head on down towards the base right after they were done eating. To get Coby into the marines as well, seeing who or what Kuina look like in person. However...

"That is one big gate!" Luffy mused out while whistling in amazement. "Makes you wonder how many people has to open and close these gates." He joked while looking to Coby, who seemed quite focus of why the gates were closed and confused of WHY it needed to be close? This having Luffy to slow down his laughter and chuckle, before humming and facing back the gates.

"I don't understand? Why would they need to lock the gate, I mean yeah Kuina." Coby hummed and crossing his arms. "But if Kuina is in their prison then they shouldn't worry about it." Then turn to look where Luffy is standing and spread his arm out when noticing he isn't there. "Luffy?" Then began turning his head left to right, "Luffy where did you go?" He asked openly while facing back towards the town.

"Up here Coby!" Shouted Luffy with a chuckle, watching the boy reaction at how he is hanging off the top of the gates, "And have to say, there's someone in the large courtyard!" He exclaimed while looking back into the base. "Someone seems to be chained up and quite injured..."

"What?" Coby openly said and proceed to follow Luffy's example and climbs to the top of the wall and look onto the courtyard. "Where?" He asked while scanning the area for a bit, passing by possibly a figure- then immediately dart his eyes back on said figure and nearly shouts. "That's..." the boy began saying and couldn't help but froze in shock. At how injured and badly bruises the chained up woman is, while looking to be giving very painful labor like breathing. "Pirate Hunter Kuina!"

Which the loudness of his suddenly surprised. Had Kuina lifting her head and shift her gaze over at the two boys. Noticing the crossed look on the straw hat kid's face while staring at her. Making Kuina to grit her teeth and managed to speak up. "What's your problem...never seen a injured person before?" She chuckle out but hissed when stinging pain shot through her sides.

Having Luffy to hum and then wince at the painful expression the woman has. "Anyway there is no reason for the two of you being here. Get lost, or else I will get mad." Growled the woman and keeping a very strong and menacing expression in order to intimidate the two. Which is working on Coby, but that isn't why he is scared. He is more worry about them being caught or seen by the marines and possibly get in trouble. "By the way she's coming over here again isn't she?" Asked Kuina.

Making the two boy's to blink in confusion and about to ask who she meant. Only for their heads face towards Luffy's right when a ladder suddenly got placed against the wall. Follow by a little girl who climbed up the ladder and did a quiet motion with her one finger. Too then jumping over the wall- "You do know how to get back up right?" Luffy asked with a smile, having the girl to pause and look at him. Then giggled with a soft blush.

"Of course I do mister, those boxes over there." She directed their attention towards her right. Where they can see in the distance, they spotted good amount of large wooden boxes mixed in with some smaller ones. Were neatly placed and stacked up against the side of the wall, looking like a perfect stair case for a girl like her to climb on up and out the walls!

Having Luffy to let out a soft "Oh, then by all means continue what you'd doing." Chuckle Luffy, enjoying the happy expression the girl had on her face and began rushing her way over towards the blue hair Kuina. "Nice kid," Luffy smiled and had Coby nodding his before realization finally hit.

"Wait no! This is bad if she interacts with Kuina or even spotted by the marines. She can seriously get into trouble!" Exclaimed Coby with wide eye expressions. "Heck, Kuina might try and harm the-"

"Now why would someone like Kuina, go and hurt a little girl? Who is offering you some food." He stated and watch Coby shock and worry expression, turn to one of confusion and curiosity. "Look." Luffy then points towards the two, silently watching the interaction going on between the girls. "I don't sense any malice from Kuina, or any hatred towards the girl. So I don't think we have anything to worry about." Then eye smiled. "Heck, I know she might get in trouble from the marines. But even they aren't that heartless to not feed their prisoners right?"

Having the glasses wearing boy to stare for a bit and then nods. "Yeah, your right. I'm sure they can let this slide!" Smile Coby and turned his attention back towards the two. "And you might be right about Kuina too- she doesn't look scary at all now thinking about it." He stated softly.

Kuina sighs and shook her head while having quite the deadpan expression on her face. Mumbling softly to herself, "not matter the fact they don't feed me or the girl giving me food. But I don't want that asshole seeing her and possibly hurt the girl." Kuina stated and look down towards the young girl. "You know this charade is starting to get old. How many times have I told you not to come here!"

"I know," the girl started saying. Not at all afraid or cowering in front of Kuina. "But I know they haven't been feeding you, and with you keeping your promise? I figured it be bad if you pass out or go away from starvation." Then happily giggles while grabbing out what seems to be a large napkin holding what appears to be two rice-balls. "So I went and began starting making my own rice balls! I never made them before and didn't think they might come out alright. But I hope they will taste good!"

Making Kuina to gulp and eye the food lightly. Feeling her stomach betraying her and growling out loudly towards the girl. Having Kuina to blush a bit and looked away sheepishly when the young girl smiled and moves her hands closer to her. "See! I knew you were hungry, I can help feed it to you if you-"

"Now that would be against the rules young lady!" Came another voice. Alerting everyone towards their presence, with Luffy and Coby crouching behind the edge of the wall. So they wouldn't get caught, but enough to see how things played out. "My, my, my it's you again you little brat. How many times have we told you to stop coming here and aiding the criminal!" Chuckle the privilege man. Who hair seems to go outward and beyond the edges of his head.

Wearing what seems to be quite the formal outfit uniform with fancy looking shoes. Making one questioned why someone like him, will be walking about on dirt? Even with the way he walks, makes it look like he owns the place! "His face is stupid." Luffy stated softly, nearly having Coby to snort in laughter but caught himself from doing so. "How can anyone even walk with a chin like that?" Luffy continued, while taking not how his chin seems to be quite...angler quite weirdly.

"You know the rules, no feeding the criminal." Stated the man while being up close to the young girl. Who then felt him taking her rice-balls away from her. "But I do appreciate you bringing me food young girl! Don't mind if I do!"

"Stop give that back! That isn't for you, I worked really hard in making those to the nice lady." Then let out a sharp squeak of shock. When the man bite into the rice-balls and began spitting it out from his mouth with quite the over-the-top reaction towards said food! Having the girl look up at him for a bit and heard him shouting.

"And be your last! What kind of shit did you put in these!" He demanded and continued spitting out even more when the girl. Replied meekly back with the answer of the food having sweets in them. "That's disgusting, revolting! Rice-balls should and never will have sweets in them!" And then throws the food down into the ground! Causing Luffy and Kuina to glare and letting out dangerous growls with both thinking the line of.

"Bastard! The girl probably spent the entire day working on them!" With Kuina watching the man literally stomping and slamming his foot down into the rice ball! Having the young girl sniffling and about ready to cry, of how she worked really hard on them and taking her all day to make!

"I don't care, you defile my taste by making them sweet!" He then turned towards his marine body guards thrusting a finger straight down towards the young girl! "MEN I want you to throw her out!" He ordered and saw them hesitating and shaking lightly where they stand. Having Coby squint his eyes at their behavior... "I don't care if she's a young child or not. I am second in command of this base! And you will do what I say, or do you want my father to know about your disobedience!"

This had caught Luffy's attention too, connecting the dots of the villagers behavior now. It isn't Kuina they were actually afraid of! It is the Captain of this group of marines they're afraid of! Both he and Coby widen their eyes when one of the men. Walk over towards the young girl, grabbing her by the shirt with a very apologetic look on their face. Before walking over to the gates and LITERALLY!

Threw the girl up and over the gates! However, Luffy is quick to act and leaps backwards to catch the girl and holding her close to him while landing onto the dirt road. Wincing lightly at how hard he hit the ground, waiting for the pain to subside and smile at the girl who pulled away. "You alright?"

"Yeah I am, thank you mister." She said between her snivels and look over towards Coby after Luffy let her go and placed his hat on his head. Then face towards the boy, who return the gaze and nods when Luffy asked.

"Coby take her back to her house alright? In case that guy changes his mind and send the marines after her." He said while standing back up on his feet and running over to the wall. Climbing on up it and to see what will happen to Kuina.

"Okay Luffy, if something happens you'll tell me?" Coby asked after approaching the girl and saw the teenage nod his head and smirk towards the two. "Okay," Coby then turn towards the girl. "Where you live?" Watching the girl look at him and then towards the gates. Worry about the woman inside, then back to Coby.

"It's down the street not far from here." She informed and head out with Coby. "It's the restaurant you two ate at. That's where my home is." She said while raising her voice loud enough for Luffy to hear too- having the Pirate eye smiled.

Then change his expression to a serious one, watching the man get uncomfortably close to Kuina. Watching the girl look at him with disgust and anger, then closing her eyes when he reached up and grabbed her chin. "It's a shame, you can end it all right here and right now. Instead of holding your promise to that girl." He said and began stroking Kuina's cheek. Watching in amusement of how the girl is ready to strike him or kill him on the spot. But he knows she couldn't do anything.

He then began trailing his hand down her cheek and towards her neck and shoulder. "You can easily get rid of the crimes you committed here on our island. And even becoming my personal assistant." State the man with a chuckle. Gliding his hands down to her white long sleeve shirt that is torn open slightly from what Luffy could tell.

From previous actions and torment this man probably gave her. Even feeling his blood boiling when the man went and began groping the woman's right breast through the shirt. Not shred of caring or being gentle when doing so. Having Kuina grit and hiss lightly with how rough he is being, pinching and just squeezing her right breast through the shirt. "You can serve me any time and anyplace, not sure why you even bother being a bounty hunter. When your body could be use for something more-" then felt his world going white.

When Kuina glad at the man and smirk, before finding the strength to her legs and kicks him right between the legs! Causing him to start screaming in a high pitch tone! That had Luffy snickering and laughing behind the wall, not flinching of what the girl did. He deserved it. "Nice try but the more you touch me, the more I will feel like throwing up on you and making sure that spot of yours. Will continue to get ice packs."

Amuse at the struggling growl the man is giving her and looking up towards her. While he is shielding and covering his crotch. While the marines that are with him, did wince and silently move their hands bit forward. But were also biting their tongues to not laugh at his dismay. "The deal was and is, that if I survive for an entire month. I will become a free woman, and considering I am only couple days away of said month. I don't have to listen to you or anyone." Then she harden her glare. "NOR will I allow you to defile my body from your dirty hands."

Then laughed when he got up and thrusted a finger at her. "You, you bitch! We will see about that, considering nobody can survive an entire month without eating! It's unheard of and you will die right where you stand." Then throw his arm to the side. "You forfeit your life for the last time." Then tried his hardest to stand up right, without showing any weakness or the blow to his crotch did anything.

"Besides am getting tired of this anyway, what kind of man would want a woman like you anyway." Then scoff and lifted his head. And began limping his way out from the courtyard. "No man would ever fall in love with a woman, who knows nothing but fighting. Come on we're leaving, had enough of this filth." Stated the man who name got announced by the group. Being called Helmeppo.

Kuina just watches them leave and left her once more alone. Too which the girl shook her head and sigh, while flinching and curling her lips in when she heard her stomach growling out again. "...If your going to come in might as well do it. While he is distracted..." Kuina said towards Luffy. "I know your still there and saw everything. So, now you know my situation."

Luffy jumps over the gates walls and began walking his way over to the chained up woman. Getting a really good look at her now. Blue shoulder length hair that seems to be reaching towards her upper back. A white and tan long sleeve shirt that has been cut open near the torso and down towards her chest, exposing her cleavage to the world and the side of her breasts could be seen through it. While wearing what seems to be form fitting black jeans that reaches down to her ankles.

With what appears to be black and green style shoes. The boy stops in front of her and hummed, looking over the bruises and injuries she possibly had to endure. No doubt also being groped roughly by that damn privilege brat. Who seems to care nothing but himself and no doubt money, that and what he could overhear while he was walking away. He talks a lot about his daddy...meaning he's a daddy's boy.

"So what is it...what do you want from me? Considering you aren't exactly afraid of me or even scared to approach me. Despite what kind of crimes." Before she could even finish her sentence. The girl had to blink her eyes a bit and then shook her head. "I'm, I'm sorry the ringing in my ears were bothering me. What did you say?" She asked and just lowered one eyebrow.

"I want you to become one of my crew members!" Smiled Luffy. Having the girl stared dubiously at the boy for a bit. "I am starting my own Pirate crew and in search of crew members. I heard about rumors and how powerful you are." Then crosses his arms and laughs. "But I did not expect you being cool too, the way you handle against that snotty brat like that? Not only that," then threw his arms forward with excitement. "You're a swordswoman! So I made up my mind and choose you to being part of my pirate crew!"

Kuina stared silently at the teenager and feeling the winds blowing along their bodies. With sand whipping up from the wind. Before finally finding her voice, "You're joking right? You do know that I hunt Pirates right?" She stated. Watching him nod, "And...you are asking me, to join your Pirate crew?" She asked wanting to be sure.

"Well you're the first I had ask so far. So yeah, I want you to join me and become a crew member!" He smiled and leans back a bit. "I am going to become King of the Pirates! And what better way to then having a very capable and strong woman like you on board!" Grinned Luffy. Just having Kuina stare at him for couple more times and then laugh softly. "Eh, what's so funny?"

"Sad to say I am already on a quest of my own. And joining a Pirate crew will just make things difficult." She stated. Then pause and purse her lips to the side. "Well okay maybe not difficult, but I have a promise to keep here and right now. The assholes here have my treasured Sword."

Luffy hummed and then rubbing his chin when the girl states how the marines here took her sword away from her. No doubt in a way making sure she will stay where she is, without freeing herself from her bindings. "I see, so without your sword you can't go anywhere." Luffy asked while looking towards the tower for brief moment and then back to Kuina.

Who just tilt her hands in a what are ya gonna do gesture. "Yeah, but not exactly it either. All because of protecting that girl. From that bastards dogs, who he let roaming around freely in town and attacking anyone they see." Growled the blue hair girl and sighed out. "Anyway um... " then looked away sheepishly and bashfully with a blush on her face. "Think you...um could hand me the rice ball."

"Huh?" Luffy then look down towards the stomped on rice ball on the ground. While grimacing at the idea of her eating it. "Are you sure, it's quite dirty and probably not good to eat." Informed Luffy, while bending down and grabbing the food on the ground and doing his best to wiping away the dirt off from it much he could.

"I don't care...she did all that hard work for me. She been sneaking in and giving me food, for almost an entire month. I can't waste her food like that." Kuina said while her stomach growled out. "Even if its dirty or not, I still like to eat it." The girl said and saw Luffy, who was flicking the dirt off. Side way glance too her and smiled softly. Before walking over and moving his hand forward. Waiting for her to open her mouth and felt the boy sliding the food into her mouth. Thus she begins eating and chewing on the rice ball much she could, not caring if it had dirt or not. She is going to eat the entire thing!

After awhile and coughing from almost choking on the food. The girl began breathing heavily and panting a bit, "Thanks..." Then looks up at Luffy. "Tell the girl, that it was delicious alright? Now get going, don't want you to get caught and in trouble." She stated and saw the reluctant look on the teens face. "What's your name?"

"Oh my name is Luffy." Smile the boy and then nods. "Alright, I will tell her it is delicious. But I will be back and having you join my crew, alright?" He said and began walking away from the girl. Keeping his gaze on her when doing so and saw her chuckling and shaking her head.

"Yeah right, that will only happen if something drastic happens with me and I get my sword back." Kuina muttered out half jokingly but also being true to her words. Something tells her he is going to be persistent on wanting her to be one of his crew...well first crew member of his Pirate gang. "Just deliver the message alright?"

Which Luffy smiled and laughs, seeing she was open to the idea and offer he gave her. He just needs to be sure to get that sword of hers back, that or wait till her sentence is in the clear and that she's a free woman again. "Sure thing I will let her know, and keep that train of thought okay? Cause I will be back and will find a way to free yet." Stated the boy while waving towards the girl.

Who stared at him for awhile and just gaze at the back of the teen. Before chuckling softly and shaking her head, "I don't know why or what it is, but the way he says it. Makes it seem like he's being honest about wanting me in his group." The girl thought to herself and hummed. "A swordswoman becoming a Pirate huh?" It did sounded intriguing and interesting concept to muse over.

But considering what happened to her in the past, where pirates were planning on killing her or even using her body? All because of somebody son felt his ego being tarnish because of her showing him up or being better than him. Had his father hiring pirates to go and kill her. Although on the other hand, if she did join Luffy and become part of his first pirate crew?

She might actually be able to have a safer time sailing across the seas and improving her swordsman skills. All the while not having to worry about constantly being hunted down or attacked by random hunters or mercenaries. Yes, she will probably be hounded by the marines along with Luffy... she already on their wanted list if her being hung here has anything to say. "King of the Pirates...huh, guess it won't be bad joining him." She thought to herself and look towards the boy once more and saw him hopping over the gates.

Xxx

Back at the city south from the marine base. Luffy and Coby went to find the girl and deliver the message to her, about Kuina enjoying the rice ball greatly. With Coby shock and amazed how the teenager spoke with Kuina, with the girl actually listening and hearing him out. Too then telling them the story of how she protected the girl from being hurt from that Helmeppo dogs!

"AH~ She said that really!?" Exclaimed the girl towards the two boys. With Luffy nodding his head with his arms cross. Sitting down on the ramp of the girl's house steps, leaning gently forward with a wide smile. "I am glad, I work really hard on that! Nearly took me three days to get it right." Smiled the girl.

"One thing I don't understand though?" Coby spoke up, alerting the two too him. Watching the way he is stroking his chin. Before turning to the two, "If that's all Kuina did and help you from the dogs. Why would the marines go and take her as prisoner." It baffled him of why that was a case? Those dogs were wild and just out right attacking, all because Helmeppo allowed them to do so. "And you are sure it was done purposely?"

The girl nodded her head and tightening her fist. "YEAH! He does this every day and every week! He comes waltzing down the streets and look at us like were garbage. Treat us poorly and sometime even take our money! All because it's good for the marines!" The girl then soften her look and stare down at the ground. "Granted...I think it is only him and Captain Morgan, who mistreats us. They even hurt and harm their own people!"

This had Luffy wincing lightly as that did not sound good. "I had a gut feeling something was off when those men were with Helmeppo. And this confirms it," He then silently turn his head towards the tower up north. "I guess when Grandpa told me that there are times, where Marines does get corrupted. I didn't think he was serious at the time. But seeing it first hand, now I know." Then face back forward to the two kids, who were talking to one another and Coby getting more information about the marines here.

"No doubt if I don't do something about it. Coby might give up on his dream of being a marine, no thanks to these idiots." Though before Luffy could ask how bad it is with the marines? The trio turn their attention down the road and could hear what sounded like Helmeppo boasting loudly in the streets! Using his father names to taunt and threaten the villagers.

"That's right you need to bow even lower, show your respect to the son of the marines! You don't want my father to hear about your disrespect right?" Chortle the boy. Making Luffy to grit his teeth ready to punch this guy across the face. Hell, he even saw Coby despite being nervous, balling his hands up and shaking them in irritation. "Now come on peasants, pay up it is your monthly due date of giving us your charity for the greater good."

"And that..." The girl suddenly spoke while looking down at the ground. Alerting the boys, "That is another thing they do. They take our money from us and always making an excuse of saying. It helps out with the base..." Then shook her head. "Even stating how we will get more profits and possibly visitors to come. But the way they treat us and never kept their promises, and asking for more and more money every week. We're..."

Though she didn't finish her sentence, considering her mother had came out from the house and began pulling her in. All the while asking where she was or where she went, to even demanding her to answer if she was visiting the swordswoman again. Having the girl nervously replying back that, she didn't or wasn't seeing the swordwoman at all. Closing the door behind her and hiding inside, even locking the door!

Luffy and Coby blink their eyes at the door, then to each other with bit of a smile. Knowing and understanding the reasoning behind the mothers behavior. Before looking back down the road, with both boy's widening their eyes when Helmeppo boasting got louder and began saying things that out right pissed them off!

"Sir should we head on back now, there is only three days left till the month is over. I think it be best we start treating that woman with bit more..." One of the marines began saying, before flinching and shutting his eyes tightly.

When the son just turned his head and just laughed in his face. "And what, have her going around and killing more people she wishes? PLEASE! That woman needs to be put in her place," he bellowed out while laughing loudly. "She continued to refuse my offer and constantly mocks us marines, to even being cocky and stating how she can last till the month is over." He laughed and laughed, getting Luffy to start shaking his fist and heard him getting closer.

"But sir the month is almost over. Be bad now we go back on our-" Another marine member began saying, to also raise his hands in defense when Helmeppo got in his face.

"And so what! Like we're actually keep that promise." Which did not go unnoticed by the boys. Who irises shrank into dots and gasp out when the snot nosed brat spread his arm out. "And considering she refuses to becoming a companion to me. It's been decided that her execution will be done later today! Who cares about some promise or some honor she has, the way she mocks us is violation of respecting."

"BASTARD!" Luffy shouted and blindly ran over towards the boy and slugger punch him across the face! Having everyone there to nearly have their eyes popping out of fear and surprised of what the teenager just did! Too even having the marines screaming out in surprised, but bit of happiness behind their surprised expression when they watched Morgan son hitting the floor hard and sliding a bit away from Luffy. "You made a promise that she will be released after the month is over! You can't go back on your word like that!" Shouted Luffy angrily, glaring down at the boy.

"What the fuck! Why the fuck did you attack me, you know who I am brat!" Stated the shaken man, who began scrambling to get onto his feet. "No one has ever punched me, not even my father-"

"Oh please, shut up about your father!" Luffy growled irritably. "All I hear from you is father this, father that. Will you ever grow up will be the day that pigs can fly." Growled Luffy with quite a blunt response, too then cross his arm. "But on the topic at hand, you are seriously going-" then froze in place in mid sentence when he saw the man. Along with the Marines who were with him, heading back to the base! Which had Luffy staring lightly and then blew out frustrated air. "Well...this is bad."

Then Coby approached next to him and nod, before looking up to Luffy. Having a feeling despite their situation and how they might make an enemy out of the marines? The boy probably wants to help Kuina, the same way he did for him when Coby was with Alvida. "What you think we should do?" He asked and watches the black hair teenager chuckle and looks to Coby.

"Well I know what a pirate will do, when it comes to their crew mates." Then eye smiled at Coby. "But what will a professional marine man will do in this situation? Especially if somebody is wrongfully accused of a crime they did not commit?" Chuckle the boy. Watching Coby blink his eyes and points at himself.

Surprised Luffy is asking his suggestion of what they should do- or more importantly, what with a navy man do in this situation. Especially to someone who is going to be wrongfully executed. "Heh, I think you know my answer Luffy-san. Even though I-I am afraid of what will happen to us, but I think even a Navy man will not stand for this corruption. SO let's go!" Coby shouted while pumping his arm close and laugh when Luffy.

Patted his head and nods, "RIGHT! Let's go and warn Kuina, maybe she can also help me figure out where her swords are!" He began saying while twisting his body in the base direction and began running, with Coby following right behind him. "Do you think can get those knots untied around her wrist?" He asked as the two slide around a corner and continued their way towards the navy base.

"Depending on the knot it might take awhile, but I might only be able to get her one hand untied." Then look towards Luffy when the boy nodded his head. "Eh, but Luffy it be pointless if I only get one hand untied!"

"Yeah I know," then smiled and face the boy. "But it will be enough time for me to find the sword and deliver it to her." Then eye smiled. "Something tells me, she is going to surprise us with only one hand!" Chuckle the boy and faces forward. Having the confuse Coby to tilt his head and then widen at what he meant! She's a swordswoman, and a highly skilled one if the rumors were to go anything by; having one hand might be all she needs to free herself!

"Right then, I will do my best to get her one hand free. I won't run away or flee, I will make sure to do this!" Coby announced with determination as the two boy's make their way towards the base. With Luffy laughing and nodding his head, then steeling his gaze forward.

"I just hope she hasn't passed out on us when we get there. Even after eating that rice ball and being hung for who knows how long. The girl body is probably reaching on the verge of collapsing from lack of water and food."

xxx

"What!?" Kuina exclaimed, she was bit surprised to seeing the two boy's coming back to meeting her again. While jumping over the fence in quite a hurry fashion. Having her be curious of what's going on or what happened, only to learn about the situation. "You-you serious?! There's only three days left till the month is over, why are they pushing the execution."

"Apparently they don't keep their promises. What Coby and I also found out from the girl, they are forcing the people here to giving them money. On empty promises and stating how they will improve the village." Luffy explained while watching Coby moving over to the girl's right hand. "Now we don't have time and no doubt, that brat is already informing his father about the situation. Where would they keep your sword?" Asked Luffy.

Watching the girl stare at him for a bit and shook her head. "I-I think the bastards son took it to his room. Somewhere in the top floor of the tower." She stutter lightly before facing back at Luffy. "Look I don't know what's happening, but I need you tell me bluntly in the face with a serious expression. Are they really going to execute me later today?" She wanted to be sure and not make a dumb decision of trusting someone like Luffy.

The boy stared a bit and then harden his eyes while nodding with a firm. "Yes." Waiting for the girl to respond back as the two stare one another down. Feeling the winds blowing bit heavily when he replied back to her and with quite a serious look on his face.

"...Alright, deal's a deal!" Kuina said, "I will join your crew, however-" Then raised a finger and had Luffy blinking his eyes. "I have my own personal goal and a promise I made to a old friend of mine. That I will become the strongest Swordswoman or Swordsmen, in this case. For the both of us," Then her eyes turn very threatening and scary looking. "And if you ever get in the way of that dream of mine, or try to interfere with said dream. Then you will kill yourself in honor." She explained and watches the boy smile softly.

"Right, I understand. If I ever do cross you like that. Then I will uphold that promise and kill myself for your honor." Then smiled and had the girl blinking her eyes and laugh. This is certainly one strange captain she is going to have in the future. "Coby, how's the knot coming?!" Luffy suddenly asked while turning towards the boy.

Who look bit irritated, "I wouldn't know Luffy! I just started!" He shouted and was ready to apologize for his abruptness. Then smiled when Luffy laughed towards him, "you did that on purpose!" Mutter Coby while focusing back at the task.

"YUP! See you do have it in ya, alright now." Luffy then turned towards the tower and began running towards it. "I will go and grab your sword! You know what it looks like?!" He called back, which Kuina shouted back while raising her head a bit.

"It's in a special red ribbon sheath! The handle of the sword has special white wrappings to not harm the users hand!" She called out, hoping the boy will be able to figure it out and find the sword somewhere in the sons room.

"Okay thanks!" Thus Luffy went around the corner of the tower to begin his search of well. First finding his way inside the tower first, then figuring out where to go from there. Leaving Coby and Kuina to themselves.

Coby having managed to get little bit of the rope untied from her right hand. Sweating lightly and going fast he can to getting the girl free. "Man these knots are done very well. I am glad Luffy and I decided to free this hand first." Mutter Coby, earning a confuse expression from Kuina. Curious of what does he mean? "And before you ask, it's because he has a hunch by the time he finds your sword? I will be having your right hand free from its bindings. Giving him enough time to come back and handing you the sword."

Which had Kuina gasping a bit and then smile. "He's quite perspective, he is right. Just having my right hand free. I can get myself out of this mess and help out anyway I can." She said and raised a brow when they heard what sounded like something loud, crashing hard on the top of the tower. With Luffy's voice being heard through the sudden silence.

"Oh um err, well uh...Sorry!" Came Luffy's loud voice, no doubt being loud in order to apologize towards someone of what she is not sure off. But find it funny how even though the marines were corrupt and are going to kill her? He still finds time to be modest and apologize for something she wasn't sure of.

"Luffy is a odd one..." Stated Kuina and faces down at the ground. Feeling the rope lessening around her right wrist. "Is he always this blunt and reckless?" She asked while facing Coby. Watching the pink hair boy to pause for a brief moment and look up in thought.

"I only know Luffy for a day right now, but I can say. He is very dependable guy." Smile the boy and continues untying the girl. "He helped me out, a complete stranger he never met before. By having me be free of being Alvida's crew mate- a female Pirate who forced me to do everything on the ship and being somewhat a cabin boy for the crew."

He said while shaking his head and laughed. "It's funny too- I did not know at the time, but after Luffy was shipwrecked after getting caught by a whirlpool in the ocean. Hide inside a barrel of his and drifted in the sea. Before his barrel somehow winded up next to Alvida's boat and bringing him towards one of her storage houses." Coby paused while wiping his brow, feeling Kuina's eyes on him as she listen to this no doubt very short tale.

"He must've fallen asleep in the barrel, and woke up when I tried rolling the barrel to the storage building." Then smiled. "He must've listen on my mumbling at the time and determined that I needed help and get rescued. Despite not even knowing who I am, or what my face looked like. He just burst out and just helped me on the spot. While even saying how he will help me register to being a marine member." He smiled, though the smile faded.

"But seeing how they're treating everyone here and abusing their power over the people. It has me questioning if I should bother or not become a marine." The two then turn their heads at the base. Hearing what sounded like gun bullet's being fired within the tower. Followed by some yells and screams of men being attacked. No doubt it being Luffy, as the two sweated a bit and becoming bit concern for the young pirate.

Kuina then turn her attention to Coby who immediately went back to what he is doing. "...Coby was it?" Which she got a nod and saw him pause when she smiled at him. "Don't worry, it is only the brat and Morgan who are the corrupt ones. I think the soldiers here are just afraid of him, and having no choice to follow his orders." She informed while hardening her gaze while staring towards the large gates of the empty field. "I maybe chained up here, but nothing gets past my eyes and ears. I had a hunched from setting foot on this island. That something is wrong about this place and seeing the behavior of the soldiers and how Morgan, literally talks down to them and don't treat them with any kind of respect?" Then exhaled a bit. "I have a feeling the captain doesn't care about anything except for his own rank, how people need to respect the navy and power."

Then look back at Coby, feeling her hand is almost free! "So don't let him and his son, make you change your decision of becoming a marine okay-" She started saying and felt the ropes breaking free around her hand and Coby turning to her. "You-" though widened her eyes and nearly freak out in fear! When a gun shot could be heard and a bullet, went through Coby!

Watching the boy scream out in pain and slams down into the ground! "COBY!" She yelled in panic and then immediately relaxed, seeing it wasn't a fatal shot! The boy thrashed about and flinched on the floor as his forearm got shot at! Leaving quite amount of blood to start trailing down his arm.

"Argh, I been shot, I actually got shot and, and bleeding!" Shouted the boy as he thrashes and twitches on the ground, before swinging his body upward and hissing a bit. "Ack...dang that, that hurts!" Mutter the boy a bit surprised at himself for not freaking out completely or shutting down from said shot wound to the arm.

"Thank goodness, you're okay." Kuina said with a breath of relief. "Well in a way that they did not shoot you any vital spots." Then lifted her head, "You alright?" She asked and watched the boy nodding his head and slowly getting up. Before doing something quite resourceful, by moving a hand towards the hem of his shirt. The boy went ahead and ripped off a good amount of his shirt, to start wrapping and patching up the bullet wound. "Where you learn that?"

Which Coby who seems quite pale and no doubt exhausted from that experience laughed softly and smile to the girl. "Luffy actually taught me this." He stated, recalling the memory while they were sailing their way to Navarl island. "Even though it isn't much of medical help, he has told me his grandfather taught him how to patch up bullet wounds or cuts like these, by wrapping any kind of cloth or medicinal herbs to the wound. Even telling me how that you can use your own shirt." Coby said and saw the white piece of cloth is doing a great job keeping the wound bandage and absorbing the blood.

Having Kuina stare in amazement of how someone like Luffy, taught Coby this? The teenager didn't look like he is all that smart or resourceful. But now getting a new fond respect after hearing how he taught Coby this. Too then laughing at how the exchange was to teach Luffy, how to work a compass. Something he had forgotten when he was a kid.

"The next shot however will not missed." Came a intimidating voice. Alerting Coby and Kuina towards the voice presence. Too then widening their eyes with Kuina, quickly shifting one into a glare. There standing near the western part of where she's chained up. Stood a very tall and menacing man, who had quite the broad shoulders- muscles bulging from his arms and what appears to be an Ax replacing where his hand used to be.

Standing possibly ten feet compare to the other marine soldiers surrounding him, or more of standing in front of him. All looking nervous and concerned for Coby's safety, all having their guns and rifles aiming towards the two. With the iron mask wearing man scoffed at the two with quite a menacing stare.

"I will be sure the next shot won't miss."

TO BE CONTINUED...