Authors disclaimer: I do not own One Piece. Hey everyone another chapter done and written. I had to take a small pause from writing, considering did three chapters one after another and figured to take a break. But now am back and ready to continue forward with this story!

I am thinking of stopping at least around Chapter 10, as it be good stopping point and break for the one piece story. While returning to updating the Pokemon stories again lol.

Also, it been bugging me for awhile and had to look it up through google. In which is how many words are there in a sentence. The results I gotten was 15-20 words per-sentence. Not the usual eight to ten words, but 15 to 20 words for each sentence. If you were to tell me this and that's how writing is nowadays, I probably would not have believe ya lol.

I even ask my mom, as mom's knows best. She too was surprised to learn that it is 15-20 words per-sentence. SO! I figure give it a shot, see how things are and hopefully. Fixes my sentence structure a whole lot better.

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

xxx

Chapter 4: Luffy and the ex-marine Bellemere!

A couple hours had passed since the defeat of Morgan and his son Helmeppo from their abusive power and corruptness of the marine base in Shells town. Kuina, who has been recently recruited and becoming a young teenager's crew member who goes by the name of Luffy. Wasn't sure what had happened all she remember was that, after defeating Morgan with a single blow and replying to Luffy. Felt the entire world spinning around her and collapsing towards the ground with everything going dark for her, with her name being called out by Coby and Luffy with concerns. After that she did not know what occurred, if anything while passing out she felt what could be arms scooping her up and holding onto her with a protective hold.

The young woman groan lightly and began fumbling her eyes, hearing what sounded like voices coming from somewhere, recovering her senses and felt what could be blankets over her. "Am I in a bed?" She thought to herself and flutter her eyes open then winces from the sunlight hitting her eyes. She lifted herself from the pillows and rubbed her eyes, then began scanning the room she is in. Taking note that she is in fact in a bedroom, of someone house and look pretty normal looking room with your everyday furniture. The young woman then groan lightly when she felt her stomach growling, having her to rest a hand against it while smacking her lips.

Kuina closes her eyes and began sniffing the air as a delicious aroma hit her nose, having the girl let out a pleasant sigh. "Something smells good." Hummed the young woman as she removes the blankets and sheets and gets out of bed, spotting new pair of clothes resting on a drawer. With her sword resting up against it neatly along side her shoes being placed in front, having her smile. Once she got up and washed up from a shower she found, the girl went ahead and began moving to the hallway. Heard the voices getting louder and seemingly coming from a floor below hers. Making her way over to the stair case she began descending down and hear what sounded like a party going on?

Kuina made sure to adjust the new set of clothes that laid out for her, buttoning up the small vested long sleeve blue and white T-shirt, pulling lightly on the jeans. Making sure she is modest when going downstairs and entering the restaurant that girl Rika comes from! Widening her eyes at the excitement going on as Luffy is quite joyous and swinging about his mug happily. Making Coby and Rika who is sitting next to him having bright smiles on their faces and, having a great time! Luffy after finishing up his story too Rika of the navy base, spotted Kuina at the stairs and threw his mug up. "OY! Kuina come and join us, we were just having a celebration party of our victory against Morgan and his snobby son!"

The young pirate exclaimed alerting Coby and Rika to her presence, as they too waved at her and beckon her to join. The mother who is behind the counter lifts her head and smiled brightly to Kuina, "Ah good your awake! Come and join us dear I have lots of food prepared, so go join them and I will bring it over." The mother said too her, watching the young woman nod her head and smiled in appreciation as she heads over towards the table and sits down.

The food is brought over to the table and setting down seems to be ten different plates of food. Kuina, went ahead and grab what she could and began scarfing the food down her gullet, leaving quite a mess on her face when eating. Humming in delight of how delicious it is as she grabs a glass of water, chugging it down after choking a bit and slamming it on the table with a big gasp of breath! "SOO good!" She exclaimed with bright smile, "I never thought I will ever eat again. Being forced to not eat for nearly nine days can mess with you," She giggled out.

Making Luffy smile glad that the girl is feeling a lot better, "Rika and the mother told me exactly what happened when you arrived. I must say, it is impressive you manage to go this far without eating or drinking." Luffy said and look at Rika. Watching the girl look away bashfully and giggling in delight when the boy points at her, "I have to thank you Rika for keeping Kuina somewhat fed, or I would have not gotten her to be part of my crew!" Luffy chuckled out while taking a huge bite out of the large meat he order.

Kuina nods and smiles towards the girl, making sure to wipe her hand from the food and patted the girl's head. "Yeah, you were quite brave sneaking into the base and feeding me when they weren't looking." Kuina said while she poke her nose with a caring expression. "But don't do that again alright, it can be quite dangerous if that group were to spot you and hurt you." She explained and then hummed after resting her hand back on the table. Seeing Rika shaking her head with a wide smile and threw her arms apart with glee.

"I know, I know, but the soldiers there didn't seem to mind and left me alone whenever I came and fed you." Then eye smiled. "All they ever tell me is to be careful not be spotted by Morgan or Helmeppo, and so I did!" She laughed and turn to her mom who called her over, "Coming mom!" And heads behind the counter and smiled when her mother praised her and wanted her to do the dishes. Having Luffy, Coby and Kuina to themselves at the table and letting them enjoy their meal.

Kuina, turning back towards her food and resuming eating again, shifted her gaze towards Luffy who is drinking out of his mug and asked. "So what's next captain?" She suddenly asked while waving her fork towards the boy, who turn his head at her waiting for her to continue. "Now that I am part of your crew," Kuina continued while leaning back on her chair and crossing her arms underneath her C cup breasts. "What is the next step on our to do list, I have a feeling you will want to try and recruit more people right?" She asked and began sipping her drink.

Luffy nods at her deduction and face forward with a smile, "Yeah, I am thinking of probably having ten crew members for our pirate crew." He stated and rests his elbows on the table and lean against his hands with a big smile, "especially if we're going to be taking on the Grand Line to find One Piece!" He exclaimed and did his best not to burst into laughing when Coby did a spit take with his juice!

"Grand Line!?" Exclaimed the boy but immediately calms down and thought it over, while lifting a finger to his chin. "That actually makes a lot of sense if you want to go after One Piece?" Then face forward with bit of a worry expression, "But are you sure Luffy? I heard that place can be very dangerous and ends a lot of sailors and pirates careers for how tough it is." Coby said with a worried tone and considering they just met and are newly friends, he can't fathom the thought of losing Luffy at the Grand Line.

Luffy nods with conviction and harden his expression with glee, "Yeah I am, if I want to be King of the Pirates? I have to venture out into the Grand Line and find One Piece there, only make sense for Gold Roger to leave it there!" Exclaimed Luffy while flicking his hat up a bit and grins. "Besides, I have Kuina with me and whoever else joins my crew. We will be the best pirates out there in the world!" He cheered out, having Kuina to smile with a firm nod. Getting quite excited herself at the idea of improving herself, and becoming one of the strongest swordswoman out there in the seas!

"Well then Luffy if we're going to the Grand Line? We will need quite the crew to being able to handle it, especially a navigator." Kuina then waving her fork towards him after finishing her fifth plate and leans forward against the table. "Considering we don't know what the Grand Line will have there or how rough the seas are. So we better make our decision of a navigator a careful choice." She said and out of bit of cuteness places the fork into her mouth, chewing lightly on it and the food.

Luffy nod with a hand resting against his straw hat, laughing at how diligent Kuina is about choosing a good navigator for them. With Coby looking at the two pirates in awe, surprised how much they're getting along greatly with one another as if they were long time friends. Having the boy softly look down to his lap and tighten his hands, knowing this will be the last time they'll ever meet or see each other. Listening to them discussing what kind of ship they should get ahead of time, considering they can't go with just a dinghy. "I...I won't be seeing them again after this. Especially with how much Luffy helped me out, giving me encouragement and teaching me how to be brave."

Coby closed his eyes tightly while gritting his teeth feeling hot tears from his eyes, struggling to hold them back. "Two years I suffered serving Alvida and her pirates, losing all hope and faith that someone will search for me and rescue me." Flashing through his memories of his time with Alvida and how much hell he went through! "But thanks to Luffy I am free, free being able to whatever I want now.. And my dream is to become a marine, but..." Then lift his head at the two with Kuina, glaring and grabbing onto Luffy's arm shouting how she wasn't done eating her meat!

With Luffy exclaiming back how the piece of meat was on his plate not hers, with the two tug-o-war over it. With Kuina reaching out her other arm and began tickling the boy at his arm pit, After stretching his right rubber arm out long enough and watch Luffy cry in laughter, whipping his arm back to himself and letting go of the forked meat. In which Kuina happily took a huge bite out of it in victory, with the straw hat teen shouting in disbelief!

"That would mean I will become enemies with Luffy and his friends. I-I don't think I can do something like that, or even fathom the thought of having to fight him and bringing him into custody." Coby said while opening his eyes and looking at the two pirates, with Luffy shouting out how Kuina cheated! Having the girl to stick her tongue at him while raising her head in victory, stating how he shouldn't left his guard down. Having Rika and her mother, and the people outside who can hear it all, laughing and enjoying the company of the two.

"L-Luffy..." Coby struggled to say alerting the black hair teen and Kuina towards the boy, raising their brows in concern. Watching how Coby seems to be struggling to say something and beginning to get teary eye behind his glasses, "If, If I join the marines and become a navy soldier will we still be friends?" Asked the worry boy who had his lower lip sucked and waited for Luffy's response to his question. Who stare confusingly towards the kid and tilted his head, wondering whatever brought that up in the first place? But Luffy can understand where Coby is coming from, be weird and awkward for a marine to be friends with a pirate.

Kuina smiled warmly towards Coby and then look at Luffy, figuring to add in her two cents on the matter. "Well it wouldn't hurt, long you two keep it a secret and away from the navy." She informed while eye smiling, "granted everyone here probably knows the two of you are friends. Including the navy at the base, but no doubt they will still follow the rules." She stated and began flicking some grapes into her mouth and sipping more of her drink. Hoping that her two cents will ease the tension between the two boys, despite them not really knowing each other that long.

Luffy laughed softly and nod, "Well of course we are friends, even if you join the navy or not we will always be friends!" Exclaimed Luffy while raising his head, watching Coby face just brighten up and beginning to sniffle at how much Luffy has a big heart. "After all, you needed a friend from the look of things after the hell you went through with Alvida." Luffy continued while then leaning on the table with one arm resting over it. "Though you should be good, there is no reports or information about you being with their groups, so the navy-" Luffy then had his sentence cut off at the sound of the restaurant doors opening.

Alerting everyone towards it and saw one of the marine members entering inside the shop, looking a lot healthier and better! No doubt all of them are recovering from Morgan's tyrant control over at the base, with the man stepping couple steps forward. With an appreciate and somewhat sorry expression, "Excuse me, I know this is sudden and that we at the marine base appreciate what you've done for us. But, and I know be stupid of me asking if you're the two who stop Morgan?" The man asked with a concern tone, watching Luffy and Kuina stare at one another and back at the man nodding.

He then grabbed his hat and lower it to his chest, "Right, and I assume that the two of you pirates right?" Which got a nod and saw the two smiling softly having a good idea where this is going, prepared for it to come. "Well, again we want to thank you for what you did. But, rules are rules and that we cannot allow you to keep staying here any longer and, will turn a blind eye for your crimes. But we must ask you that you leave immediately."

Having the people outside shouting in dismay and shock of what is happening, too even Rika and the mother widening their eyes in disbelief! "That's not fair they saved us, they saved even you and your men from that evil person!" Rika shouted behind the counter and slamming her hands on it. "Why should they leave, it isn't a crime to saving our lives and making it better by beating those bad people!" She continued while feeling her mother resting a hand on her, nodding in agreement. Then which the two open their mouths a bit when the man sheepishly rub the back of his head.

"I'm sorry but attacking, invading and causing property damage to a Marine base is violation to the law, as well since being pirates. They also attacked officers of the law and went against the navy with brute force and violence. I'm sorry but rules are rules and we cannot report to the higher ups about pirates saving a town, from our own corruption and turn a blind eye for our mistakes." Informed the soldier as people outside, shouted and refuses to hear it and saying how they have every right to stay.

Even Coby was ready to defend them only for Luffy to smirk and stood up, rubbing and patting his clothes alongside Kuina. "No problem, we were about to leave anyway-" Luffy then lift his head and happily look at the soldier, "we just need to get some supplies and be on our way officer." He stated and look towards the daughter and mother with a smile, "think be alright to have some food for our trip?" Watching the mom who blinked and then smile warmly towards him with a firm nod, "cool! Kuina you got everything?"

Which she nods and chuckle sheepishly, "yeah though are you sure about me taking your clothes ma'am? I don't want to intrude." Kuina asked and watches the mother laugh, waving her hand telling her not to worry about it, and she is welcome to having the spare clothes. Making the blue hair girl to nod and softly smiles back in response, then look at Luffy nudging her head towards the door, "all set then." She said. Walking behind the boy as they were leaving the restaurant, meeting the mother towards the door as she hands them a large bag of supplies. Having Luffy to thank her and tip his hat, accepting the bag and throwing it over his shoulder about to leave.

Coby, left behind and standing at the table where the two were eating stared at their backs. Knowing they wouldn't be seeing each other after this, making sure to being quiet and not saying his good bye towards the two. Considering the navy will mark him as a pirate too, losing all chances of entering the marines, "hold it you two." The soldier suddenly spoke having both Luffy and Kuina to stop and turn at the man, "This young boy Coby, I believe that's your name?" The man asked at the pink hair kid and face back at the two. "Is he with the two of you or friends with you?"

Having Coby flinch and shook at the sudden question hoping none of them will respond to his question, watching Luffy fully turn around and facing the man. "Who him?" Luffy suddenly said and points at Coby, who's face went pale when Luffy then said. "Well considering that the boy got kidnapped and was with some pirates."

"Luffy no!? What are you doing if you reveal that we are friends I lose all hopes of being a navy." Coby thought in panic, watching the straw hat pirate walking on over to him and stopping in front of him. Continuing with saying how he came across Coby out in the sea, with the pirates and about to reveal the group he was in. Then places a hand on top of his head as Coby lost it and felt his world going in spiral's when Luffy is about to say.

"So you could say that we-"

"SHUT UP!" Coby suddenly shouted and threw a very hard right hook across Luffy's face, throwing the boy's head towards the side. But with a big smile on his face, glad that Coby took action and punched him before he could finish his sentence. Having Coby widen his eyes at the sudden punch he did and stares at the teenager, who caught himself and wipe his cheek. Who then went ahead and pulls his own fist back and punches Coby across his own face, sending him down to the floor!

"So, you think your tough guy huh!" Luffy exclaimed and continued his assault on Coby by jumping forward and standing on top of him, before delivering more punches down at the boy face! Making sure to hit both side of his cheeks while hearing Coby, grunting and yelling out in pain from the blows! Making sure his act is believable in front of the soldier and hearing him screaming out that is enough at Luffy, who then felt Kuina grabbing his shirt collar.

"Alright, I think he had enough captain don't want to take us into jail again do you?" Kuina said keeping the act going while trying not to laugh. Making Luffy to nod his head and happily places the straw hat back onto his head and look at the girl, "come on we better get going before we get arrested." She snicker out with a shake of her head and heads out of the door with Luffy, whispering out. "You call that acting? I know the soldier will fall for it but come on Luffy, that was pathetic."

"Hey I didn't see you taking action to help out Coby chances of becoming a marine? So I wouldn't be talking." Whispered Luffy as the duo began heading out of the restaurant, leaving Coby there on the floor, gasping and breathing realizing. That Luffy helped him out once again and this time, it was to help the boy get into the Marines! His eyes watering up doing everything he can not to cry, lips sucked into his mouth and just doing his best to keep his cool.

"Luffy did it again, he helped me out once more. He did that purposely so that the marine wouldn't see me as friends, with them or relations to a Pirate." Coby continued with his thoughts while rolling onto his side. Then began pulling himself up, standing and curling his hands into fists before fully standing in front of the soldier. "Luffy go and chase your dream, go and become the Pirate King! And I will do my best to achieve my own dream and become a marine!" Coby then straighten himself and then raised his head up as he shouts.

"SIR I WANT TO JOIN THE MARINES! I MAY NOT LOOK MUCH OR MAY STRUGGLE, BUT IT IS MY DREAM TO BECOMING A MARINE, I WILL DO ANYTHING YOU WANT ME TO DO EVEN THE MORE MINOR JOBS SO PLEASE, ACCEPT ME!" Coby then bowed low in front of the solider. Who stared and blink at Coby's sudden conviction of wanting to join, having the man to smile and adjust his hat lightly.

He can see the determination and passion of wanting to join. "This young man definitely wants to be one and considering how determine he look. I don't see why not, after all- we need more people like him in the marines who's compassionate." The man chuckle and laughed as he goes nodding his head and smile down at Coby. "Sure thing young man but do remember, it won't be a easy ride once you join. You will be trained and taught very thoroughly and with a lot of discipline." the man then lower his hat slightly over his eyes and grinned. "Think you can handle it, Coby?"

The young pink hair boy look with a owlish expression before turning one into excitement! He nodded his head and stood attention, "Yes sir, of course sir!" Coby announced with a strong conviction, he made it... He finally made it and is on his first step of becoming a marine soldier!

Xxx

At the docks of Shell's town we see Luffy and Kuina approaching towards the Dinghy he and Coby used to arrive here. Having Kuina to hum lightly and rubbing her chin, "Well that explain's how you and Coby got here. Though if we're going to have a pirate crew we better find a ship," then turn her attention towards Luffy while resting a hand against the hilt of her sword. "Including if we are going to have more crew members join us." She informed watching the straw hat teen nod his head.

"Yeah, though I don't know where we could go and find ourselves a pirate ship." Luffy stated as he walks forward and began untying the Dinghy, crouching down to get the knots of the rope. "I did try figuring out where we could find somewhere for said ships, while you were sleeping." He grunted out as he begins untying the ropes, hearing Kuina walking onto the Dinghy and twist her body at the boy. "Borrowed a brochure from Ririika after she told me how, I might be able to find something in it or possibly a nearby island who can give us a ship."

Luffy stood up and happily tosses the rope at Kuina who caught it in the air, then knelt down on the Dinghy. Making sure they wouldn't get their ankles caught with the rope, hearing Luffy continued as he jumps towards the boat. "And from what I read, we should be able to go and buy a boat at a town called Orange town." He informed while pinwheeling his arms, losing his balance for a brief moment and heard Kuina squeak out and quickly grabs his shirt and pulled! Which the two of them then grunted out when Kuina stop Luffy halfway from falling out, then landing on top of her inside the boat.

Both of them groaning and rubbing their heads from bopping against one another, with Luffy gently pushes a hand against Kuina's right breast. "Thanks," he said to the girl who nodded and not minding where the teen's hand is, considering there is not much else to grab onto. Opening her eyes and watched Luffy sit up and removed the hand from her breast, then offer it to her.

"No problem," Kuina smirk and accept his hand, adjusting herself on the dinghy and sitting on one of the seats. "Well then do you remember which way we're suppose to go to reach Orange town?" Kuina asked while leaning back a bit and watches Luffy. Crouch walking over to the sail and sits down next too it, making sure to unfurling it and waiting for the waves too take them out further. Then watches him grab a compass from a stand, then tossing it over to Kuina. Who lean back and began bouncing the compass between her hands not expecting the boy to trust her with it.

While letting out a low breath of air when she grabs it and flip the lid open. "The brochure said that Orange town is further northwest from Shell's town. So, if we head in that direction and keep an eye on the compass, we should be able to get there by midday." Smiled the straw hat pirate who felt the winds beginning to blow and pushing the small sail forward and moving the dinghy forward to see. "I am trusting you to keep an eye on the compass Kuina, think you can keep watch and alert me if we're going the wrong way." He asked, watching the blue hair girl nod her head and wink.

"Sure thing, I am good with compasses but I am not that good at navigation. But, I will do my best to keep an eye on our directions." Informed the girl while then brushing her bangs to the side and look out to sea. Smiling, not expecting how things would have turned out and how her path with Luffy will end up like this. If it wasn't for the straw hat pirate coming and saving her from the corrupt marines, her dreams would've ended right there and then. And kind of glad things happened like this, her life would have ended and her dream to becoming a powerful swordswoman.

Luffy who is adjusting the sails and moving it about too getting them out from Shell's town, briefly paused and lean his head towards the right. Looking towards Kuina and grin softly, noticing how she seems a lot more relaxed and carefree than when she was chained up at the cross. The girl look at peace and seems to be happy that her journey is continuing, no doubt glad she can still keep going and achieve her dream of becoming a strong swordswoman. He then shifted his gaze towards the sword that's neatly resting against the side of the dinghy, having quite a warmth presence to it and a calmness along with love. The same feeling he felt back at the marine base, when he lifted it off from the floor and held it in his hands.

Luffy then places a hand on his straw hat and silently shift his gaze up to it, knowing that this hat too have love and warmth to it. When Shanks handed him the straw hat and being one of Luffy's most treasured things he ever gotten as a young child. Which now makes him curious of who it is that handed Kuina, the sword that she treasures greatly? He looked forward at the girl who held onto the side of the Dinghy, when they began heading out to sea, "Kuina-" Luffy is about to say.

But the two blink their eyes and turn their attention towards the dock, hearing someone shouting out towards the two, "LUFFY, KUINA!" It is Coby! Who is waving both arms high into the air and then quickly salutes towards the duo, who smiled back at the boy. "I won't forget everything you've done and I want to thank you both, for showing me that I can achieve my dream! I will never forget you two!" Coby cried out and did his best to keep the tears back.

Watching Luffy and Kuina, smiling back at him and were about to wave, only to pause and watched how all the marines soldiers gathered behind Coby. Standing in rows and saluting towards the two of them, with the leading being next to Coby and calling out. "Again, thank you for everything you've done for us here in Shell town! We won't forget the kindness you showed here today and the risks you've taken to freeing us from this nightmare. Thank you again!" He called out and the rest of the soldiers followed suit and thanked Luffy and Kuina for the help!

Having Luffy and Kuina to turn their heads at one another, while then beaming with smiles and faces back. With Luffy throwing both arms into the air and waving towards them while Kuina, leans back far she could at the Dinghy's sides. Waving her hand towards the group then resting the arm, back down with Luffy doing the same and both faced ahead of them. Saying their last goodbye's to Shell town and the people at the docks, who were thanking them for all their help!

"Alright men, we have just said our thanks and even saluted too pirates." The commander announced to everyone and rested his arm down to his sides. "It is punishable by law that we thanked them, so as punishment to ourselves and thanking the pirates. We will not have dinner for the next week understood?" He said with a smile towards his men and Coby. All of them agreeing with him and salute to him and stood attention, with Coby smiling and watching his friend sailing away.

"Thank you Luffy...for everything." He thanked the straw hat pirate silently as he head off with the soldiers, back to the base and get started with his training.

xxx

Few hours has passed since they left Shell town and saying their good byes to the people they rescued. Luffy, who is at the helm of the Dinghy is making sure that the boat won't capsize and flip over. Just lightly humming a tune and enjoying the ocean breeze with this wonderful weather. He couldn't help but lift one hand to his straw hat and slide it down the back of his head and grinned. "Good weather today for sailing! Hopefully when we get to Orange town, we can try and rent a bigger boat." He said to Kuina, shifting his gaze over at the girl who responded.

By lifting her head up from the compass and nods, "though do you have money?" She asked lightly while having bit of a worried expression. "Cause there's a difference between renting a boat and buying one Luffy." She informed, raising her right hand and rotating her wrist. "So unless you have the money to get us a boat, we won't be much of a pirate crew." Kuina then stretched out both her arms out and laugh lightly, at the annoyed expression Luffy has right now.

But he can't blame her as she is right, he doesn't have enough money to really buy a boat. Having the straw hat teen to sigh softly and shake his head, "you're not wrong. I definitely don't have the money but figured, buying a bigger boat than a dinghy will be better. In case we do recruit new members." He informed while leaning lightly on the wheel, lazily hanging his arms off from it. Luffy then shift his gaze back towards the sword of hers. Remembering the question he was gong to ask her, before the navy and Coby called out too them. "By the way?" Luffy started asking.

Having the girl hum and turn her direction to him, "exactly how did you get your sword if you don't me asking. You said it is a treasure you can't replace or ever let go..." Luffy asked while resting a cheek against the back of hi hand. Giving a small smile towards the girl, who closed her eyes and smiled back then lifting her head towards the sky. Then down at her sword, lifting it up and resting it between her two hands. Remembering the memory fondly and how she acquired her father's sword. "Well I will tell you exactly how I got it, and not bore you the details." Laughed Kuina.

Xxx

Couple years ago on the day Kuina received her sword...

"It was couple years back when I began growing up and mastering my techniques at my dad's school. Been a long time since a incident happen to me when I was a child, a group of pirates- hired pirates. Were paid to kill me, to murder me because I upset their payers son..." She told Luffy, remembering her young self in the dojo all by herself.

Frustrated and angry, irritated and agitated as the girl spent almost her whole life. Hunting down and finding where those pirate's client was, or where the son could be. When one of them told their friends how they were told, to kill the girl because of their client son being jealous. Not liking the idea of being out smarted or out played by a female swordswoman. "I tried my best figuring out where they were and where they came from. But all my leads winded up empty handed and could never find my best friend's killer."

"I see..." Luffy chimed in, "that explains the promise you told me about back at the base. Wanting to be the best swordswoman, is a promise you made too this friend right?" He asked, watching the girl nod. Flashing to the day where her father had called her in, wanting to tell her something important. With the young girl walking down the hallway of her father's dojo, making her way around the corner to a more furniture and decorative hall. Reaching to the sliding doors that will lead her into her father's room.

"When I entered and sat down in front of my father. He began telling me...and reminding once again. About how female swordswoman aren't particularly strong than men." She continued with the story, with her past self doing her best to hide her anger and frustration of hearing this speech again. Only then blink her eyes and widen them, "however...that day was different. He then told me that unlike most swordswomen, they don't generally continued to train their skills and improving their swordsmanship. They usually stop and think their at a good point in their training. Telling me how not a whole lot of them seek out, to improve themselves like I do."

Her past self then opened her mouth in surprise when her father. Stood up and walked on over towards his sword, lifting it off from the stand and turned around. Walking back to her and knelt down to his knees, bowing his head and moving the sword forward. "My daughter he said, you are nothing like those women and I know, you will keep improving and getting stronger. I offer you my sword so that one day, when you leave this dojo. You bring honor to our home and dojo, and making me proud to having you as a daughter."

xxx

"And here I am," Smiled the girl still looking at the sword she's holding. "I kept my promise and will keep it to my friend. That I will become the strongest swordswoman, but also make my father proud and bring honor to the dojo." Then laughed after moving the sword onto the side of the boat, then twisting her body to face Luffy. "Course if I have to be a pirate to achieve such a dream. Then I do not mind at all," then pump her arm out with the other resting against that forearm. "Besides I will also be able to fight incredibly strong people in the future, if I sail out to sea! So have no worries captain, I'll be sure to help you out." She eye smiled.

Making Luffy laugh and nod his head, while replying back. "Then I will be sure not to get in the way of your dream! Like I promise back at Shell's town, if I ever get in the way of your dream or prevent you from achieving them? I'll be sure to commit senpoku to myself to bring honor back to you." He stated and had the girl laughing while throwing her head back. Making Luffy to hum and tilt his head of what is funny?

"I don't think that's how you pronounce it Luffy, but I understand what your trying to say." Stated the girl while leaning forward and calming down. Then lifts a hand and points at his hat, "so by the way- since we're on the subject of treasures. Is there a significance to your straw hat, I have yet seen you take it off at all." The girl asked and felt her hair blowing from the breeze. Watching her captain eye smile and grabs the straw hat.

"Yup, it's my treasure and the person who gave it too me. Is the one who owns it, taught me what it is to be a pirate. I made a promise to him, Shanks is his name; that I will bring this back to him once I become a great pirate!" Said the teen fondly, feeling his messy black hair blowing with the breeze. Then placing the hat back on his head and faces forward, "I'll be sure to return it to him once I become King of the Pirates!" He declared. Having Kuina getting quite pumped up for what, she is not sure. But it just feels like whenever Luffy makes that declaration?

Kuina gets this overwhelming feeling of being able to do anything! That what Luffy says might come true, maybe not now but no doubt he will become the pirate king. She will be sure to see this journey through and help him, help him in anyway possible. "Anyway," Luffy suddenly spoke and adjusted his hat, while then looking to Kuina. "How are we doing with the directions, we still heading northwest?"

Making Kuina to let out a soft oh, grabbing the compass and opens it. "Let's see," she hummed out and looking at. Though before she could say yes or tell Luffy, they are on track. The two lifted their heads up and heard what sounded like cries of help. Having both of them too stand up on their boat. Spotting what seems to be people overboard and in the water! Though something seems bit odd about it, which is why there be people in the ocean?

Kuina hummed and turn her attention to Luffy who stood behind her. "What you'd think Luffy? Are they dangerous or faking that they need rescuing?" She asked her captain. Who hummed and harden his look, staring at the three people in the water. Noticing one odd thing about them and that's-

"Why are they wearing rubber clown nose?" Luffy piqued up and had Kuina widening her eyes and faced forward. Watching her captain stretch his arm out and points. "See, they're wearing clown noses...something is definitely not right here." Luffy felt uneasy about this situation. Yeah normal people calling for help and probably capsized their boats.

But why would regular people be wearing rubber noses out in sea? Kuina, after checking the three out harden her look and grip her sword tightly. "Shall we question them and get info out of them?" She asked while getting into a fighting pose, knowing Luffy can't fight in this dinghy. Suddenly, the two then heard what sounded like another boat coming from their left!

Alerting the two over at it and saw it is a paddle boat! "DON'T TRUST THEM! IT IS A TRAP!" Called out what sounded like a woman voice! Alerting the two of them about the dangers the three men were in the ocean. Causing the men in said waters to suddenly cry out!

"Shit!"

"It's Bellemere, why is she here again!?" Shouted one of the pirates with the third groaning and growling out.

"Not sure but let's get out of here, before we get caught!" Announced the third pirate. With all three of them swimming over to their boat. Which is being covered by a tarp that Kuina and Luffy just noticed, when the waves moved downward. Revealing a motor boat the clown nose people are climbing in. Then sailing away when they turned the motor on and darted away from them. Luffy and Kuina relaxed their muscles and look to each other. Then over towards the slightly bigger boat the woman is sailing on over to them, while furling the sails to come a stop.

"You two alright? It's a good thing I got here on time, or else the Buggy pirates would have stolen your belongings." Informed the woman on the boat. Luffy tilt his hat down to hide the sunlight and ridding the shadows. Spotting what seems to be a lady, with pink curly like bangs, with the back of her hair in a pony-tail. Wearing what seems to be a uniform, that strikingly looks like a Marine uniform, but not at the same time. "Hold on you two, let me lower a ladder for you. Then you can climb on board!" Shouted the woman, who knelt down and tosses a ladder.

Luffy and Kuina stared at it for a bit then look to one each other. With the woman looking over the side of the boat and hummed. "Hm? Something the matter you two? You are or were heading to Orange town right." She took a guess and saw the two facing back up to her.

Watching her rest both arms on the side of her boat. Smiling down at them with mixture of apologetic and sincerity. "Sorry to say but the place isn't safe, right now that is. The three pirates you saw with the clown noses belong to Buggy." She informed and watches the two teens. Grabbing the ladder after grabbing their things. And began climbing up while listening to the woman.

Who step aside and let's the two on her moderate size boat. Watching the straw hat teen whistle out and grinning brightly, "nice boat! This is exactly what we need in case we have more people sail with us." Luffy chuckled. Having the woman to raise a brow and tilt her head confusingly. Then saw him face her, "thanks! Though we aren't afraid of some pirates with clown noses, and we were. We were on our way towards Orange town. Hoping to getting a bigger boat there and continuing sailing out, while recruiting more people!"

This had the woman stared owlishly for couple of minutes. Her brain slowly clicking and turning its gears of exactly who she just picked up! Having her widen her eyes and swiftly pulls a rifle from her back and aims it towards Luffy's face! "Hm? Something wrong?" The teen asked curiously with no fear. Even Kuina didn't react or swiping the rifle from the woman's arms. Knowing full well that Luffy, will be alright. She is absently and cutely looking at some of the decorations on the boat. Before gasping and fumbling greatly when one of the candle sticks, fell off from the mast and rolled off into the ocean!

In which had her quickly resting a arm on the railings and leans on it calmly. Trying to look cool and that nothing had happen, whistling when she tried to grab it. Then shift her gaze at the two with the woman. Shaking lightly and trembling in front of Luffy with quite intimidating eyes. "Please tell me that I did not, just- just pick up pirates who belong to them!" She exclaimed openly.

"..." Luffy stared and then look up in thought. Then crossed eye towards his nose, before facing the woman. Who nearly snorted in laughter when Luffy grab his nose with a smile. Causing his voice to go funny, "don't have a rubber nose. But I am made of rubber, surprise you know about that just by looking at me!" He beamed and chuckled. Causing the woman to stop her snorts and paled at the sight. Of Luffy stretching out his nose far he can make it, then snaps it back to his face.

Laughing and chuckling in front of the woman. Who began lowering her gun and just wide eyed of who she picked up. "You, you're a Devil Fruit user?" She asked and got a nod from him. Then look down at her rifle and then back at the boy, "the Gum-Gum fruit right?" Which she got another nod while Luffy is beginning to feel sense of danger, including Kuina. Who is ready to bring her sword out and swiftly swings it forward, at the same time as the woman. Who quickly swap her weapon with a short blade!

Having Luffy yelp and raise his hands in defense from both blades in front of him! "Whoa, whoa, whoa! We're not enemies, we're not enemies! Lower your sword!" Luffy cried out and began chuckling nervously. Especially at the way the woman eyes is glaring at him. Not at all afraid about Kuina being right there. Ready to cut her and slice her where she stands!

The woman who is holding the sword towards Luffy's neck, felt a bead of sweat rolling down her forehead. Feeling her sword clattering with her small shakes and trembles. Looking into Luffy's eyes that showed no fear or even worries about dying. Making her to lower her sword and her stance a bit, raising her right brow curiously. "Who...are you two? I never seen anyone not coward when having a sword to their neck, or afraid having weapons drawn to them." She asked confusingly.

Luffy smiled softly and lowering his hands. Then nods to Kuina to withdraw her sword. Who stared a bit more at the woman, but smiled seeing she shows no threat. Quickly spun her sword around and sheaths it. Watching the straw hat teen raise a hand to his hat, laughing with an eye smile. "Name's Monkey D. Luffy and this is my crew mate Kuina." He introduced the two of them. With Kuina lightly flicking two fingers forward in hello fashion.

"And yeah we are pirates but, we don't work for whoever Buggy is." Luffy stated and raised his free hand up. "But you know them right, are they troublemakers? If so, that's normal for pirates to cause trouble and messing with people." Stated the teen. Watching the woman twirling the short blade of hers back into its sheath. Sighing out lightly and nodding her head softly.

"Sadly I do, first thing first." Then claps her hands together with a very apologetic look! Bowing her head down fast shouting. "I am so sorry that I jumped to conclusions like that! I thought you work for them considering the way you spoke, about needing a bigger ship for more crew members!" Then gritted her teeth. "I thought you were planning to lower my guard and take my ship. Sorry!"

Having Kuina to softly smile and rested her weight on her right leg. "No worries that's our fault. We should have told you beforehand, we were pirates. But we weren't planning to take your boat." She said and looks to Luffy, looking quite distraught of having the woman think that. "My captain seems want to apologize for his mistake."

Luffy laughed and bashfully rub his neck, "Yeah. Sorry about that...Bellemere was it?" He asked confusingly. Pointing out towards the ocean and direction of the pirates fled. "That's what they called you right. That's your name?" Luffy asked, watching Bellemere hummed and then nodded lightly. Letting the straw hat pirate know he is right. "Okay," The teen then raised a hand and points to her, with the other hand holding his hat.

"By the way," he began saying, "how did you know I had the Gum-Gum fruit? Have you seen it in action before or took a wild guess?" The teenager was curious how she guessed it on the spot. Wondering if its because he stretched his own nose and figured it out, or him saying rubber gave it away. Feeling the soft breeze of the ocean blowing through the boat, rocking it softly against the waves.

Bellemere gave a hearty laugh as she goes up to the steering wheel. Climbing up the ladder that leads to the upper part of the boat, "well might come to shock. But I used to be a marine back in the day." She informed. Swinging her leg around the top and stood up on the upper deck. Turning around towards the two teens, laughing at their wide expression. "So I have fought my fair share of Devil Fruit users myself, but I've also had studied a bit of the fruits that were known." She continued saying and begin grabbing onto the wheel.

Luffy and Kuina look at one another and then back, Luffy smiling and asked. "So does that mean you've catalog all about the fruits?" Then blink his eyes confusingly when the woman shook her head. "How come?" He asked curious now why that is and couldn't help but eye smiled. When the woman lean against the wheel, staring down at the two with her own large smile.

"Cause if I do kept logs about the fruits, it would give away the point of guessing Devil fruit powers." Then looks up towards the sky with a far away look. "I maybe an ex-marine as I did kind of retired. But the people I used to work with, would take my notes and find counter-measures to even innocent people who aren't pirates and locks them away."

Kuina who heard this, went and lean against the mast of the boat and crossing her arms. "I guess even highly respected marines can be corrupted. Without bringing the right justice." Stated the teen with wisdom. Surprising Bellemere of how the girl sounded like she's experience it first hand? Watching the teen lift her head up with half open eyes, "we've came face-to-face with a man name Morgan, back in Shells town. Who is using his powers in a abusive manner and taking over the village, and even his own men through his corruption." While grabbing the sides of her arms and tighten her grip. "Even arrested me and planned on executing me, for protecting a girl. Who almost got bitten and badly injured from his son dogs."

Bellemere's eyes wide in shock of what she's hearing! She had a feeling something was up whenever she tried contacting the island, to get reports of what's happening recently since losing contact all of the sudden. The woman soften her look and felt a smile spreading across her face, when Kuina grinned brightly and nudged her head to Luffy. "Course thanks to my captain here, we helped free the people of Morgan tyrant ways."

Having the straw hat teen laughing and wrapping his hands behind his head, twisting one foot around his right ankle. "Eh, I only did what was right and everyone there needed help. So that's what I did; I helped." Laughed the black hair teen. Listening Kuina laugh too and shrug her shoulders, while then looking up to Bellemere.

"So, since you told us that's something is happening in Orange town. I think we will be of some help and figuring out. What this Buggy's deal is if you want," she then rests an hand on her swords hilt grinning. "Sounds like some pirates needs some scolding, eh Luffy?" Kuina asked while swinging her word out from its sheath. Laughing when the boy happily punches a open palm and grinds his fist.

"Yeah, much as pirates know how to be free and spend their days doing so. They don't have the right to terrorize and scare people off their homes!" The teenager then looks at Bellemere with a strong expression on his face. "You'd say everyone left there?" He asked, hoping that is the case considering he and Kuina, do not want to endanger people when fighting. Watching the woman shake her head softly and look at the two.

"There is two that are still on the island, the mayor and a dog." Bellemere exclaimed. Having Luffy and Kuina raise their eyebrows, before softly look at one another then back. "But you two don't know what your getting into. The Buggy Pirates, aren't someone you casually take on and beat." Bellemere then raised a hand, curling her fingers a bit. "There been rumor that he might be a Devil Fruit user too- something that even regular marines and pirates have trouble fighting." She continued on.

Knowing these kids hearts are in the right place. But the price will be huge if they try and fight Buggy and his pirates hands on! There's a reason why so many people left the island, and thanks with her protection too. She doesn't want to bring these two into a fight they can't win... She will feel quite horrible about herself as a person and a marine, even if she is retired.

"So?" Both Luffy and Kuina stated at the same time their expressions never wavering. Bellemere stared owlishly with a twitching eyebrow.

"You could lose your lives if you fight him." She pressed on, watching the teens taking a relaxing posture.

"That's the price a pirate must go through, even marines. So we're not scared." Laughed Luffy who smiled brightly and even more so. When Bellemere comically fell to the deck floors, then throwing herself back up and leaning over the wheel.

"THIS ISN'T A GAME! You two could seriously get hurt, not only that but you could also destroy the houses!" Bellemere argued and then gasp with a bead of sweat going down her forehead.

When Kuina posture turned into a confident one, gripping tightly on the hilt of her sword. With Luffy expression changing from joyous, too a challenging expression. "If we do then that means we will try harder! Nothing ever goes the way people want it too, so only thing we can do is to try harder!" Exclaimed the boy, watching Bellemere's eyes wavering at the strong conviction and determination the two teens have on their faces.

"I know you maybe worried ma'am and we respect that." Kuina then points an arm at her with a we got this expression. "But if we don't show what we can do for you, then how can we gain your trust?" Then places her hand down to her hips and leans on it. "So please, take us to Orange town. We were heading there anyway, so our paths would bound to cross sooner." Kuina then laughed when Luffy threw his arms into the air.

"Hell yeah! No doubt we were going to meet in either conditions!" Then open his eyes excitingly while pumping his arm. "What do you say Bellemere, want to kick some clown pirate ass with us and free the town!" Grinned the boy. Then felt a bop on the back of his head from Kuina.

"Luffy no!" Kuina scolded and crosses her arms under her breasts. "She's retired be pointless to bring a retired marine into battle. Especially, if they haven't fought in a long time-, who knows how long it been since her last fight." Informed Kuina. Unaware the smile growing on Bellemere's face and the light snickers the older woman is having right now.

"Doesn't mean she isn't rusty," Luffy counter-argued while crossing his own arms. Leaning forward with both teens foreheads touching. "Just because she retired, doesn't mean she's not skilled Kuina! After all; she's out here protecting sailors from the clown pirates anyway!"

"Luffy, Kuina." Bellemere spoke up suddenly, having the two teenagers to hum. While turning their heads up at the woman. Who looks to be in deep thought with how her eyes are closed, then gave a confident smile down at them. "You really think you're skilled enough to fight Buggy and his pirates?" She asked and watched the two separate, flashing smiles up at the woman with firm nods.

Bellemere sighed and chuckled then hummed, she opened her eyes and grabs the wheel. Throwing it hard towards the right-, having the ship they were on turning and sailing completely around in the opposite direction of where she originally going to take them. Watching Kuina and Luffy run over to the side of the boat staring off into the distance. "Well then who am I to stop young people like you, from wanting to sail out into seas." Bellemere suddenly announced.

Alerting the two teenagers and turn their bodies around, facing the woman and smiled. When Bellemere lifted her head with a equally exciting smile, "well then you two! I am joining you on this fight, be wrong for an adult to leave everything to kids these days!" She laughed, hearing Luffy cheering loudly in joy, then throwing his arm up towards the top of the mast and pulls himself too the crow's nest!

"YAHOO! Then Orange town here we come, you clown bastards better be ready for a fight. Cause we will be chasing you out of town!" Luffy said with quite the smug determination and boasting their victory ahead of time. "How long will it take to reach Orange town!" Luffy called down while holding his straw hat.

Kuina who moved to the front of the ship, raised a leg gently against the edge of the ship. Shifting her eyes upwards without turning, "from the brochure Luffy-, it says that Orange town is about an hour from Shell's town. Since we left twenty minutes ago, we have probably thirty minutes till we arrived." Kuina exclaimed.

While Bellemere, who is at the helm. Smiled softly at the two and the abundance of energy they have. Curious of seeing things through and wondering if the two, do have what it takes to fight the pirates and freeing the town? "If they do have what it takes to saving the town... Then maybe, just maybe, I have found the right people." Bellemere paused in her thoughts. Moving her right arm into her shirt and grabbing a locket that's between her breasts. Pulling it out and opening it up, revealing two small girl's in a photo with her in the middle. "To saving you two and freeing those of our home, from those Arlong Pirates. Nami-" She then clutched the locket tightly and closed her eyes tightly.

"Please stay strong, I know it's been nearly ten years since they've taken you. I hope your still staying strong, please be strong-," Bellemere then lifted her head and felt hot tears ready to cross down her face. "You're nightmare may still be going, but soon... Soon, it will all be over don't you worry." She told herself unaware the looks she's getting from Luffy from the crows nest.

The straw hat pirate had gotten bit worried when the woman went quiet. Watching her from the nest and hummed, when it looked like she took something out from her shirt and holding it tightly. Too then taking note at how her expression changed to concern and worry, not for him or Kuina. But possibly someone very close to her, considering the woman held the object very close to her heart.

Luffy gently leans on the side of the crows nest with both arms. Smiling down at the woman and eye smiled, "I see, that's why she's concern about Kuina and I; someone she probably cares for is in trouble and doesn't want to see us risk our lives." He thought and faced back forward at the sea. Seeing the town just up ahead along with the buildings in the distance.

Feeling the winds blowing against his face and body, hardening his look and tightening his fist. "Bellemere, if we show our strength to you and beat the clown bastards. Will you trust us in helping you out and this person, you care for?" He thought and then smirk. "Alright, Buggy Pirates prepare yourselves! You're going to be in a world of pain!"

To be continued...