After this chapter its back to the Strawhats

-A secret location-

"You sure boss?"

Mr. 11 sat at his desk while communicating with his superior on a Den Den mushi.

"Yes, I have no reason to invest in this project. It was supposed to occur after I took Alabasta for my own, but now since the marines showed up… success or fail this operation is canceled. The Strawhats are bringing the princess back home, but they should be dealt with as soon as Mr. 3 kills them. I don't care what happens now. Flood this nation with laughing gas. Alabasta is where the real gem is. Don't get caught."

"Alright, but what about the doc?"

"Eliminate him."

"His thread will be cut sir."

-outside the door-

Miss. Thursday leaned against the door, waiting for her male partner to finish talking with the boss. Her attention was now on the door as it opened and revealed her partner. He looked at her and shrugged. "Canceled, but the gas will be released. It doesn't matter if it's successful or not, our stock can't flood the entire populace. Turns out he doesn't like the gas.

"Why did he agree?"

"Decisions of the past can be crossed out as the wheel of time spins. There is some good news."

The woman raised a brow. "Like what?"

"The doctor needs to leave the land of light."

A dark grin manifested on her lip. She chuckled as she followed her partner. "That is good news. Who knows when that man will turn on us? Time we do it before he does." Realization hit her. "What about the formula?"

"Sell it. As soon as we flood enough of this city we'll be long gone. We'll take care of things and once we finish fighting who are the most troublesome and leave before Smoker comes back. This place is no longer a concern, but our own personal playground.

-Next day-

The Festival of Rebirth. Today would feel like a day of rebirth for those attending. Many attractions were held; such a drama theater, bobbing for apples, a freak show, and many others. There were two attractions that had the most people. One was the jousting tournament and the other was the popular Epiphany theater. The Epiphany Theater was where people go to feel enlightened. They would sit and listen to people on stage give out their ideas about life, the universe, and everything. Too boring? Yes, but not to these people.

The marines and the Reinasse police were spread throughout the city. Finding any trace of the bombs was proving difficult. The combined forces had Gas Masks to ensure none of them would succumb. Earlier that morning Roy's friend Horatio managed to make a drug that could slow down the effects for six hours. The gas would take over soon after.

Ken stood on a roof top, observing everyone below. His attention altered to the large grassy field where the festival was taking place. His eyes squinted when he saw the jousting tournament making final preparations. He still remembered his match would take place at night when the festival was over.

He had his orders. Keep a low profile and watch for any suspicious activity. He, his fellow grunts, the Reinasse police force, Tashigi, Miyako, and Jean were keeping the city clean and safe. Roy and Smoker? Information was brought to them about activity at a rundown barn outside the city. The Fool they captured told them about seeing suspicious people coming and going when he was fishing. It was for in exchanged for his freedom. So they let him go.

"Sure is boring, but that's what Marines do." He gazed around. "It's not all about kicking the butts of every single person in sight. I wonder if the girls found anything."

-Tashigi, Jean, and Miyako-

"Those buggers are sneaky little things." believed Jean as she walked with Tashigi and Miyako. "Making it real easy not to be known. Probably want to make one big show."

Miyako's head quickly turned to her left, alerting the others.

"Miya?" The blue haired woman was ready to unsheathe her sword.

Then a cat walked out of the alley. Jean and Tashigi calmed down.

"Geez, red what's wrong with you?"

"… thought I saw… something." She shrugged and strode away. She then smiled. "Kitty." And then dropped it immediately.

The city girl leaned toward the swordswoman. "Is she alright?"

"Yes, she's been checked out and everything. She's too reserved and relaxed. She's lazy in certain departments."

"Lazy enough to try and make sense. That girl." She sighed. "Was there anything traumatic?"

"No, nice family. No hardships. I guess she's naturally a relaxed person."

"uh huh…" Jean stared at the red head. "Come on, we got thugs to find."

-Outside of town-

The White Hunter of the Marines and the Wildcat of Reinasse stood at the front of the abandoned barn. Roy had a thoughtful look as he gazed at the rundown building while Smoker was calculative and scoffed at the place.

"There's a storage space underneath the barn. Whoever is in there is using this as a means to unleash their little disease on the public."

"Was this used prior?"

"Various idiots have occupied the barn. Previously, this place used to store food and the like during harsh winters."

"I see," He gazed at the barn. "They know we're here." The marine spotted a snail gazing at them from above. "There's no point in coming from the silent approach. These men are obviously expecting us. It was good idea to keep our men in Reinasse."

"Or bad… their entre force may attack from within."

"Whatever happens, happens. Our jobs have risks and there will be times, such as now, where we have to gamble our lives for what we view as justice."

Roy nodded. "Sounds good to me." He approached the barn door. "Get ready for any troublemaking. The basement door is inside.

The man unbolted the door with a grunt leading to an empty room. At the center of the room was a basement door. Wildcat trekked through the room before stopping in the middle of the room. He squatted, gripped the handle and opened the gate. He turned to the White Hunter with smile.

"Ladies first."

"Go on ahead."

"Ass."

-moments before-

Further from the barn and Baroque Work's agent observed the two men entering the barn. Once that happened he quickly took out the den den mushi. "Start now. The top dogs are in and should be distracted for a while."

"Roger!"

-Reinasse-

A man took out a gun, pointed in the sky and pulled the trigger. A flare flew out and exploded once it was high enough. Once the signal rang, various BW agents revealed themselves. They were either disguised civilians or hiding in places no one dared to venture. Many were armed with gas bombs and weapons. Once their target was found they were told to unleash the non-lethal bombs on the populace. More so on the nobles that the average civilian. With their limited supplies they had to do it right.

Fortunately, Smoker's soldiers and Reinasse police were prepared, but were surprised by enemies sudden appearance. There were those that were caught by the bombs and were subjected to agonizing laughter. Those who were in the circle of nobility were not spared. They screamed and ran, pushing other victims away to save themselves. Some were subjected to laughter, others fled to safety. When they ran out of bombs the scoundrels took out their weapons and attacked the populace who weren't affected. Some enforcement was under the laughter, but others continued their pursuit.

-Ken's area—

When the attack started, Ken immediately dove to a nearby carriage filled with hay, making his landing safe, yet annoying. He dove out and attacked the nearest person. Ken then blitzed through 3 other enforcers before they used their bombs.

"Never underestimate a marine… or me."

The blue haired man sprinted to his next adversary. A group of idiots, in his opinion, were chasing after a mother and child. He smirked once the police force came and stopped them. He delivered a spinning back kick to someone sneaking up behind him. He scoffed and ran to the three police force members.

"You guys did good."

"Of course!" one bellowed. "We are under Roy-dono's command after all."

"You guys respect him that much?"

"The same way you respect your Captain." said the other. "Without boss, this country would be more abysmal than usual. The 1% get more protection than we did in the past, but now… Roy has trained us to be able to handle any threat.

Ken shrugged. "Not in regard on you view 'Wildcat'. Smoker has my respect. He's a cool guy for a living embodiment of lung cancer. You're attitudes are alright!"

"Come on!" The third pumped his hands. "FOR REINASSE!"

"UOH!" The yelled as they charged down another section. Ken was amusement and impressed. He was about to join then when the marine leapt back just in time to avoid an object flying by and hitting the wall. He turned to the object thrown, a broken barrel, then the direction from where it came from. An alley.

From the alley a man sped toward. Ken quickly ducked a beheading attack and rolled away from being stomped by someone's foot. Ken jumped up and used his spear to shield himself from another swipe. His attacker was a well-built bald man with villainous twirly mustache. He had piercing green eyes and showed his pure white teeth for the world to see. He was shirtless, had on torn pants and sandals. The weapon, a halberd.

The blue haired male leapt away from another kick and swirled left to escape a thrust. Ken also shot forward to deliver and thrusting maneuver. Just as the man moved left, Ken smirked and managed to pivot his weapon quickly, but only managed a knick. The man was surprisingly fast.

"So you're the bastard from last night?"

"I thought you would've fallen easily like last night. Perhaps you learned not to fall to the same trick twice."

"A good warrior learns from experience. You know my name. What's yours? I want to remember the face I cave in."

"… Kaman the Lancer."

"Kaman? What's a bounty hunter like you working this gig?"

"With the right money and promise, a man can change his mind and morals."

Ken chuckled. "I thought guys like you have less morals than the average pirate."

"Dogs like you will assume that anyone not under the banner of the marines is less than their worth. Let's cut this chatter and begin fighting. I want to bury you and get back to work."

"Fine by me."

-Jean-

"RAAA!" The police woman struck her enemy with her battle tonfas. She ducked under a sword that nearly cut her head off and returned the present with a spinning back kick….. to the groin. Noise never left his mouth as she headbutted him. She twirled her weapons, beckoning anyone to fight her.

"Huh?" She spotted a few victims laughing their way toward her. Her heart wept out to those fallen to this twisted concoction. She wondered if the populace will ever find laughter enjoyable again.

"Laughing should not be a weapon of chaos. A weapon of health is what it should be to combat any and unwanted sadness."

"You think so?"

She whirled around, but was to slow to avoid a kick to the face. A high heeled kick to the face was more precise. A painful one. Boy that hurt. She shook her head and got a good look of her assailant, or assailants. Two people she never recognized were approaching her and looking like ordinary citizens too. One of them was holding a rapier while the other a bo-staff.

The woman waved her finger at her in a taunting manner. "My, my, is the 'Rose of Reinasse' weak to a simple kick? You should've expected something like that lass."

"Who are you fiends?" She held her guard against them. She was a bit more worried about the hat wearing man with the sword.

"It Does not matter who we are, but since this will be your last day. I am Miss Thursday and he is Mr. 11"

Jean scrunched her face while try to comprehend why they need names like that. "Miss Thursday and 11? What weird names? Are part of you some company?"

"You could say that?" Thursday smirked. "All you need to know is that this city is being used an experiment, except our backer decided to cancel the project. So now we're having fun." She glanced at the laughing people laying on the ground. "Gruesome isn't it.

"You mr and miss whatevers are behind this?!" She growled. Oh how she was going to beat them both to submission.

"As I said, you are only a nuisance!" Thursday cackled. Mr. 11 immediately attacked. The officer of Reinasse backed away from the sword swipe and continued evading the man's deadly weapon. The agent went in for a stab only for the girl to leap over and deliver a thrust to his face with a kick. He staggered back as he held his face and began swiping where the girl had been, but she wasn't there.

Jean smirked only for her to yelp in pain when Miss Thursday struck her on the back. The recovered Mr. 11 struck her with the handle of his sword. Pain went through her face, yet the pain increase when Miss Thursday struck her side with a spinning side kick that sent her spiraling across the air and on the ground.

"This is 'Wildcat's apprentice?" said Mr. 11 with an annoyed tone. "This girl? A woman like her existing in the shadow of a once feared hunter? Does she believe herself to be the second coming?

"She hasn't faced anyone like us. Her path has been cut short by walking on a bridge made of strings. So fragile and small.

Jean snorted as she wiped the blood from her face. "Put a sock in it. I'll show you what my strength."

"Foolish girl." Mr. 11 sped toward her with his sword ready. Jean brought up her tonfas to block the attack knowing she wouldn't be able to run.

However

*clang*

Metal hit metal. Jean smiled at two new people aiding her and gave chuckle at the help. "Didn't ask to be saved ya know."

"True." spoke Tashigi, she grunted and held herself. Her weapon blocking the other. "But this man has something that doesn't belong to him. It's my duty… no… my goal to take that from him. All swords should not belong to those who do evil"

"Take?" Mr. 11 growled as he jumped back. "Does the lowly female desire my blade to fulfill a need in her life? Has her life been a constant strain that she feels taking my sword will give her more strength?

"No. It may no be one of the top grade swords, but I hate it when people use them for their wicked desires. I made a goal to collect each and every legendary sword so that none of them will be used for evil. That green haired bastard isn't here, but you are. I'll defeat you and relinquish that weapon from you."

Mr. 11 raised a brow. "Are you irrational? Miss Thursday will you assist?"

"I have been caught in a wall of annoyance." The woman maneuvered away from the punch of her opponent. The mellow laid back red head of the marines. Miyako.

"Cannot let you… go." The girl spoke with less withdrawn and more authority. "Under arrest."

"Can't arrest me lass." Miss Thursday twirled her staff. "Can your unarmed fighting beat my armed fighting?"

"No contest."

"Is thou saying you are stronger? Mr. 11 this little wench is annoying. All three of them."

"The road of life does have gaps that need filling."

"Quite. Filling those gaps wil-."

"Silence!" yelped a surprisingly annoyed Miyako. "Fight." She gestured the older woman to come. A small smirk gave conjured up for a second then faded. Thursday was the only one to see and that infuriated her.

"The wench will see her face imploded from constant abuse." The two engaged in combat immediately.

Tashigi readied herself. "Jean continue on. Fight as many of them as you can and protect any civilian."

"I hope you gals have fun."

The blue haired woman chuckled while the red head grunted in response. Jean smirked and ran down the street, her mind thinking about how to save the city.

-Basement of the barn-

The two men arrived here expecting resistance. They expected an all our brawl with whoever was in charge. They didn't expect it be nigh empty. They began searching around the lab. While looking Smoker walked behind a desk and saw the dead body of the scientist who helped produced the gas. He unfortunately died painfully with a knife lodged in his heart, yet retained an eerie smile on his face. Wildcat walked up to him while holding notes he had found.

"Just as Horatio discovered in the victims… and more I believe." He gazed at the dead man. "They did him in. So who is he?"

"Doctor Roker. He's not that well known, but everyone in the military has knowledge of him. He worked for Doctor Vegapunk before he went mad and killed 4 people in his escape. To think he ended up here helping with the laughing gas."

"He went mad? A crazy loon makes a crazy formula for continuous laughter. This is another case of losing his worth with these punks."

"True, is there a formula for the antidote here?"

"I have it here, Horatio was close to making the cure. With this we'll be able to provide treatment with everyone still alive from the non-lethal dose. This still doesn't explain why they want to fill the town with laughter."

"All the more reason to find and interrogate one of them." The white hunter breathed out smoke. "I have feeling there is an outside source. Someone funded this. There is no way average crooks could get a hold of this equipment."

"Meaning you and your group will take over once the city is saved." Wildcat turned a page in the notes. "His commentary is a bit… psychotic."

"The man lost his mind down the line. All that is left here is a husk with a smile." Smoker turned around. "I'm going to check more of the rooms and then we're out of here."

"My boys can confiscate this, that's if they can handle everything above."

"Our combined forces is more than enough."

-Reinasse. Ken vs. Kaman-

The two men continued their battle on the disastrous streets of Reinasse. Trash was everywhere, people were down, unconscious or laughing. Ken's excitement for combat continued to decline. He knew that if he continued his stamina would drop. Wounds were on his body and his opponent was bleeding some. Neither wanted to give the other edge.

Ken squatted before a beheading slice, then made his way back up for a rising kick. He finished his attack with a strike from the back of the spear. The man staggered back to regain his momentum, he narrowly avoided a thrust that would have penetrated had he been a second too late. He returned the favor by striking the marine with the pole arm of the weapon. Ken avoided it rolling to the side where he positioned himself near a barrel.

"Haven't had this much a problem in a while." He smirked, but inwardly he had to find a way to beat him. He was no fool. He learned the man was not as slow as he thought. Kaman seemed to be trained in both speed and strength. What good is muscle if you aren't able to move as fast right?

So what can the self-proclaimed Blue Piercer do? Give another shot of course.

"I have to hand it to you." Ken spoke. "You're more resourceful than you look. Your intelligence may have wavered, but you're a troublesome fighter."

"Too bad. That's how the sea works brat. When an obstacle presents itself you have to topple it."

"Yeah." Ken spoke with respect. "A man's destination is waiting to be discovered. To reach it we have to crawl through the chaos of obscurity to find it."

"Yes," Kaman grunted and aimed for him. "You will have to die so I can reach my destination."

"I can't die for your destination." The blue haired man tapped his spear on the ground. "To reach my destination you will have to fall before me in a humiliating fashion… or just be out for awhile."

"Let's see who's will is better."

"Mine is."

Ken leapt behind the barrel and kicked it forward. The big man slashed through the barrel, water splashed on his face at the result. He gasped in pain when he felt a cut delivered on the anterior of his body. He swung his halberd quickly, only for it to strike nothing. He turned right to Ken poised for another strike.

"Using a distraction… cowardly."

"You call that cowardly I call that a strategy." He rushed toward the man. "I'm all out of barrels so let's get back to it."

Kaman's answered the brat by the swing of his weapon. Ken brought up his spear to slash again, but the bounty hunter pivot to the left and returned with a fist. Ken grunted as he was slammed once again by the massive knuckle. He yelped in pain as he slashed across the chest. Luckily it wasn't too deep, but it still hurt. He snorted as he was figuring out other another way to win. They kept on fighting, ignoring the laughing around them. They dodged each hit as the other tried inflicting bodily injuring on the other. It's close enough, but as time passed Ken was struck with realization.

The man was getting slower. Of course!

The large man started out with quick thrusts. Speed and precision throughout and never held back, but his power was diminihing.

He saw his victory.

Ken back-flipped away from the man and ran into a nearby building. Kaman was baffled by the blue marine's sudden retreat. He growled and positioned himself in front of the building. He slammed his polearm on the ground.

"GET YOUR ASS OUT HERE! Is this what Government dogs do, retreat?"

"Hey, hey, hey! It's called…. Say it with me…. Straaaateeeegyyyyy."

"What kind of moron tells another his strategy?"

"I never told you my plan. It could just be me staying in here and then letting the hot sun give you skin cancer later in life."

"You… are a yellow-bellied smartass dog."

"HEY! I ain't yellow. Whatever you do stay there!"

"Childish dog. I'm coming in!"

"I got you a welcome present."

The muscular man scoffed and approached the door. He was about to open it when.

"WOOO!"

Suddenly a piano crashed through the door, hitting the man and sent them both spiraling through the air. They fell to the ground with the piano on top of him. As soon as the dust settled, Ken appeared from the doorway.

"Got to use whatever you find to get an advantage. Now get back up so we can finish this."

"I WILL KILL YOU!" The man tossed the piano off him and blitzed toward the man. Kaman was pissed. Ken knew this was a double-edge sword. He's stronger, but his focus was gone. Kaman raised his weapon, he winced, slight hesitation. The piano was a good idea. It was all Ken needed. A spinning back to kick to the abdomen caused the strong man to gag and bend over.

"360 Blitz!"

Ken stamped his foot on the ground and whipped around in a full circle. Once that circle was complete he delivered a devastating cut across the man's chest. It was to send the bounty hunter spiraling back like a rocket. He barreled through the wall of the house.

Ken waited awhile as he anticipated the man jump out to attack. He cautiously walked inside, gazing through and saw the man unconscious on the ground.

"Out like that eh? You were good. You balanced power and speed. Got me going there for awhile, but I'm smarter than you."

He stared at the unconscious man before falling on his butt.

"Man, I'm tired. Going to need a drink after this."

-Miyako vs. Miss Thursday-

Miyako's fight with Thursday had herself separated from her superior when some idiot threw a gas bomb. Both girls reacted by retreating with their opponent chasing after them, but in different directions. Now Miyako found herself in a bar with Miss Thursday. The bruises she received from her opponent had her respect the bo fighter, but not enough to hurt people around her. As one warrior to another there was respect, but a marine she will have to subdue her.

"They shipped a brat like on the front lines? Are you some prodigy?"

"Maybe…"

"Maybe? What exactly makes you stand above your peers and not wield a firearm."

"Does not matter. Fight."

"Monotone, laidback, very unlike most marines. Most are boisterous and think they can take on anyone if they have the government to back them up. Those that have skill back it up, but others are just cowardly and filled with self-righteous. Justice is the philosophy that Government, but too much will lead high on you caged little world. What kind of justice do you follow?

The right brow of the redhead raised up quickly and dropped. She raised her fist. "Law." She raised her other fist. "Order." She stomped her right foot. "Peace." She stomped her left foot. "Love." She grabbed her head. "Amazon." A small smile graced her lips. "That's me."

Thursday chuckled. "Law and order drive you. Peace and love is what you wish to achieve in our pathetic world. You feel like the ultimate woman based on your fighting form. You're too much of a youngling.

"Fight."

"Fine, red."

The red head went into a fighting stance. Miss Thursday was a bit interested in the girl's fighting stance. The form was similar to karate, but with her hand shaped like claws. "Cute. You decided to get serious? What kind of stance is that?"

"Meow… meow." The red head then scratched her ear like a cat would. Her nose wiggled and the odd stare she gave was… very eerie.

"Brat."

Thursday launched for a stab maneuver only to have Miyako gracefully move to the left. The girl somersaulted over to the woman and delivered palm thrust. Miss Thursday grunted from the powerful thrust. She staggered back as she tried to catch her breath.

"What the.. that wa-." Her word choice dropped once she received an opened palm strike to the left side of her face. The attack spun her a few times before landing on her butt. She rubbed her cheek as she got back up and glared at her opponent. The agent dodged red head and retaliated with a staff strike on to the abdomen of the red head. The girl coughed and jumped back while rubbing her stomach. Like a cat the girl hissed as she went prepared to strike

"You don't like the pain? Life is not fair girl." She launched forward for another hit, but the red head gracefully evaded by moving to the side.

"Neko Spasm!"

What came next was the equivalent of receiving a hammer to gut. Thursday felt as if her left side was on fire. A spasm? Did the girl unleash a kick without even consciously performing it?

Miss Thursday leapt behind a table and kicked it toward the girl. Miyako leapt over it, grabbed a chair and tossed it. Thursday quickly evaded and swiped her staff at the red head. Miyako yelped, feeling a blast of pain coursing her upper back. She spun around and hissed at the woman. The older woman froze at the sudden cat like sound.

That delay was all Miyako need as she pounced onto girl and wrapped her legs around the woman's upper torso, immobilizing the need to use her arms. Then she began beating her face like a cat would. After a few smacks The red head then leapt backwards. As soon as her feet touched the ground she rushed forward with an open palm.

"Wildcat Roar!"

It felt like something hard collided on Thursday's chest. An equivalent of massive hammer maybe? It was powerful enough to knock the air out of her and sent her spiraling out of the control and onto a wall. She coughed up blood once the impact was made and fell into an unconscious heap.

Miyako exhaled and cautiously walked forward. She rubbed the bruise she received from bo wielder. She squatted down to near eye level and poked the girl in the nose.

"Arrested… meow. If you're wondering….. that style of fight like a cat. Neko Fist….. did you like it?"

No response.

"Unconscious… check on Tashigi-senpai." She glanced at the bottles of Alcohol. "Present for Ken."

-Tashigi and Mr. 11-

"It's my weapon. I can do as how I am pleased."

*cling*

"Something like that shouldn't be in your hands. You are using it for evil."

*clang

"All swords are made for combat. Evil, good. That's the way of weapon. It's a tool."

"Such tools should be used to enforce peace."

Tashigi backed away from a swipe meant to slice her. It felt as if they were arguing more than hitting. She wondered how her companion was faring. Was she okay? Did she get badly hurt? Did she get infected by the gas? Few thoughts ran through her head. There was one thought and that was to take that sword.

She knew that rapier wasn't one of the famous swords she sought after, but it looked to be in good condition and expensive. There was no need for this man to continue to abuse the weapon.

Mr. 11 would have to reprimand the idiot who launch a large batch of the gas. No, he would kill him. Now he had to find Miss Thursday after dealing with the crazy sword loving woman. After that they would escape while avoiding Smoker and 'Wildcat'. He shifted his attention to the blue haired woman. She held her sword firm as she expected him to attack.

"Never again." She spoke with a harsh tone. "I won't lose to people who abuse those kinds of swords. You will be a mountain to overcome as I continue my quest."

"Woman, know this day will be your downfall. Government dogs like you should've stayed away."

She sneered for a few moments then sighed. "I can't let that happen. A candle must not be snuffed out so that darkness may shroud the room. The innocent will suffer if there aren't people like me around and that sword won't be in your hands in anymore."

"Annoying woman."

Tashigi jerked to the left before barely being skewed. She side swiped only for him to move away. The two combatants delivered blow after blow trying to kill the other. Mr. 11 grunted when he received a sharp pain to her side as she kicked him there. The woman was fast, nimble, and her small stature made her tricky and deadly. He should've paid attention to every part of her body and not just her sword.

The marine sped around the man as she ducked under a swipe that could've cut her head off. She unleashed a spin kick that caused him to stagger forward. The man turned around to block an attack aimed for his backside. The two fighters continued to fight along the street by trying to one up the other. The blue haired woman blitzed to the left and delivered kick to the side. He grunted and tried to chop her leg, but the woman leapt away before he made contact.

The more the two continued to fight the more the blue haired woman started remembering why she became a marine and picked up a sword.

She wanted to protect those who couldn't protect themselves. She wanted to bring an end to this pirate age even if it took a long time. She chose sword fighting because of her fascination with the skill, their design and how they were crafted. She felt it was her calling. Her parents didn't want her to be involve in this profession, but she didn't listen. Tashigi knew the risks and went ahead.

If she didn't help, who would protect the innocent? That was her justice. Her own code. No one was going to take it from her.

Right now, she needed to win in order to protect this city. The city where her new friend lived and protected.

She felt renewed passion dwell within her. That passion was a fire burning like the brightest star in the sky. Her womanhood enhanced and unchained. Her heart started pumping as if an increase in strength appeared within her. Was this her second wind?

She blocked a side swipe and quickly brought up her leg. Mr. 11 felt the air escape his body as he staggered back. The woman delivered and spin kick to his hand, knocking the sword of his hand. She quick spun and delivered a slash across that send him spiraling away.

The blue haired woman gripped her arm and approached the man. Mr. 11 shook the cobwebs out of him as he stared at the woman. She aimed her sword at him and gave a authoritative glare.

"You are under arrest. Remain silent while I bring you into questioning."

-Jean-

Jean stomped on the stomach of the man she just took down and watched as her fellow officers and a marine soldier bound the intruders on her fair city. Lucky enough, none of them were fruit users. She had received reports that the siege was started winding down. This left the hunt for the remaining stragglers a secondary objective. Their priority is making sure the civilians are safe and to produce a cure for the victims of the laughing gas.

"Ma'am!" An officer approached the woman with a marine soldier behind him. "We received word that other sectors are being cleared of these scoundrels. Plus, Smoker's top subordinates took care of the ones that were in charge. Also, Sheriff Roy and Smoker are on their way back with how to make the cure."

Jean cackled. "That's the best news I've heard all day. All those brutes have been defeated and we stand undefeated. Reinasse is victorious." She gazed at the marine soldier. "Oh and you did a good job too."

The man snorted at her, but saluted when the officer glared at him. He didn't want to get on these guy's bad side. They were proud of their position just as he was. So who was he to mock them? Now if they were pirates that would be a different story.

-nightfall-

Jean slammed her ale on the table she had occupied herself with while Tashigi and Miyako were with her. "A job well done. I'm glad you guys lent a hand."

The blue haired woman sipped some tea. "You speak like we did this out of an order. Even if I wasn't part of the marines I would've aided you."

"Only natural." The red head gave a small smile.

Jean laughed. "Humble too, I like you gals. There should be more woman in the top brass. Perhaps an Admiral."

The swordswoman rubbed her chin in deep thought. "There could be, if someone worked her way to the top."

The ex-noble pointed at her. "Hey, you could be one. It's not like you couldn't. With enough training and passion you will be be there in no time."

Miyako tilted her head. "Admiral Tashigi…. Cool."

"W-wait!" The woman said bashfully. "I really don't want to be in that position. I can see going to Captain or perhaps Rear Admiral. Not something like that."

Jean laughed. "Has anybody ever told you were cute when you blush like that?"

"Huh?" He face went into a deep shade of red. "I.. I don't go that way."

"Relax, it's a compliment…. Where's that blue haired fella? Ken was it?"

"He's out sulking. His jousting duel was canned when his opponent fell to the laughing gas. We're leaving tonight too and taking those two masterminds with us."

"You think?"

Tashigi nodded. "Mr. 11 and Miss Thursday? Those aren't just regular names. We never heard their names before and many of the men involved kept saying Baroque Works. Kaman was just a bounty hunter hired by an agent like Mr. 11 and Thursday's boss. Beyond that we don't know. Mr. 11 and Thursday refuse to talk."

"You believe taking them with you will give you more time. What methods are you going to use?"

"We'll figure it out."

Jean nodded and small smile formed. "It's a shame you guys are leaving later."

"I know." An idea popped in Tashigi's head. "If I get a vacation I'll come back here"

The red head nodded with agreement. "… me too."

"Heh, it's settled. Next time you gals come I'll show you how to have fun in this city."

The blue haired gave a compassionate smile while Miyako bobbed her head. "Next time."

-At a clinic-

Ken placed a note on the table next to the bed of the jouster in a coma. Despite not knowing the man he was never one to back out of challenge. The blue haired marine wanted to take on all obstacles.

"I'll come back on my leave. When I'm here you better be raring to go." He sighed. "Get your ass better so I can beat you."

Ken left the room with contempt on his face. The note laying on a table with a message about returning someday to begin their rivalry. The hand next to the bed twitched slightly.

-The station-

"You sure you don't want the big guy?"

The white hunter held up a journal. "No, you keep him. These… Baroque work agents, as the doctor calls them, are all I need. The quack's journal indicates that there is a group in the underworld operating in the shadows from someone named Mr. 0. If such a group exists then Mr. 11 and Miss Thursday are the keys to finding out more. The bounty hunter probably doesn't know as much as he should. He was paid a large amount to just come without questions. If has answers about this, provide them for me."

"I will do just that." Roy scratched the back of his neck. "Are you sure you all want to leave now?"

"Yes, there is still a crew out there I have my eye on. They escaped from me in East Blue and I had a reputation of stopping pirates from entering the Grand Line. Think of it as my pride not allowing me to stop… plus… he reminded me of Gold Roger."

Roy became deeply intrigued. "So you say… how?"

Smoker turned his head toward the window as in deep thought. "A group of pirates were trying to execute the boy for whatever dumb reason. Once he knew that he was about to die, he smiled."

"Smiled?"

"Roger did the same. Both of them smiled before being put to death. That has never happened. No man has smiled before being executed."

"You think Strawhat is the next Roger?"

"Does not matter, I intend to crush the brat before he causes too much of a hassle. He's on a teenager, if allowed to continue he will be a pain."

"Pirates are getting younger nowadays and the Government isn't just going to give them a slap on the wrist?"

"Course not… no matter what age or gender. A pirate will be given the same treatment." He started walking away. "I'll be off, Mr. 11 and Thursday should be on the ship by now."

"Even if it was on orders, thanks for helping out." The wildcat gave a small grin.

Smoker gave an assuring nod. "Call me when your back gives out." Then he left.

Roy gave a chuckle. "Stupid brat."

-The next day-

Smoker and his crew left the Reinasse three hours before midnight and the ship continued sailing ever since. Now noon, the crew was scattered throughout doing their usual thing. Miyako sat on a barrel as she continued observing the captured forms of Mr. 11 and Miss Thursday. Thursday glared at the red head, the nerve of that weird girl.

Smoker was inside the cabin doing whatever he was doing.

Ken and Tashigi were bickering as usual.

"It's not a legendary sword."

"I know that, but it's a good weapon."

"So it does not ring doom and terror when you say its name." Ken smirked at her. "One more and you'll be able to three times as strong. Heck Roronoa will marry you."

"Only an idiot uses swords that way."

"You're chasing that idiot."

The woman huffed in indignation and walked toward Miyako.

"I need some female companionship."

"Hair?"

"… nah I don't think I'll grow my hair long."

"Ken... idiot."

"Of course."

The blue haired man snorted and sat on the ground. "No respect."

The door to the cabin quickly opened, out came a marine and Smoker. The three high tier officers immediately stood before him. "Ken, Miyako, Tashigi you all need to listen to this." The marine soldier walked forward and held up his arm, revealing a black Den Den Mushi on a wrist band. The device's function was to intercept and detect transmission delivered from two parties communicating through the airwaves. The trio listened intently to the barely spoken message.

"Kid, Princess Vivi, Mr. 0, Mail Delivery." Spoke Miyako as she was in deep thought.

Ken raised a brow. "I think we need a better snail, that thing is crap."

Tashigi frowned. "Mr. 0." She turned to the captured duo, the all noticed how tensed and nervous the two were when they heard the name Mr. Zero. "Do you think there might be a connection between those two and Mr. 0?"

Ken chuckled. "It might be."

"Mail Delivery.." Smoker nodded and turned to them. "We did confiscate an order that was sent by him."

Miss Thursday gasped. "I thought you burned it!"

"I DID!"

"There wasn't an order." Spoke the white haired man. "I lied."

Their reactions were priceless enough for Ken to laugh up a storm.

"We still don't know anything about Mr. 0, except his connection between these two. He probably was behind the mess in Reinasse. The kid, we don't know. That only leaves Princess Vivi."

Ken eyebrows furrowed. "Nefartari Vivi, the princess that disappeared a few years ago."

"Alabasta is having a civil war." said Tashigi. "How is she connected?

"The kid and… the princess." Spoke the red head.

"Sounds like a fairy tail." Ken remarked. "The kid and princess are obviously connected."

Smoker nodded. "We need to check out Alabasta, contact headquarters and have them ship us an Eternal Log Pose for Alabasta. I have a feeling what we saw in Reinasse was an example on what could happen in Alabasta." Something was happening, he needed to get to the bottom of it.

Originally I wanted to have Smoker fight a logia or be captured by one of the doctor's traps that would handle Fruit users. Then the mad scientist would escape while Roy and Smoker were occupied. This would turn into another vow of Smoker wanting to find and arrest someone other than Luffy.

The mad scientist would appear down the line as annoyance to Smoker's unit and lead to final confrontation in the new world. But… rhat was scratched along with ideas to have Smoker chapters... unless the strawhats are involved.

I had the idea of Smoker fighting that pirate from the fourth of fifth movie. The one with the Candy candy fruit or something. Sorry.