A/N: It's been awhile. On hand I was writing another story and others things in life got in the way. Then these two chapters had a lot rewriters and changes.

Looking at the recent chapters of One Piece made me wonder if I should've add an Oden flashback. I kid, I kid. But... I do think Anya will get a new polearm weapon in the future and a better shield.

"Everyone!" shouted Usopp from atop of the Going Merry Figurehead. "Today is the day the greatest warrior of all time decides to show his appearance!"

"OOO!" Luffy shouted from atop of barrel. "Who is it?"

"I'd tell you, but we need more to know his greatness! You!" He pointed at the swordsman lifting weights while sitting on the deck. "Are you curious?!"

Zoro looked up from doing curls and gave a half-hearted answer. "Huh?"

"You heard it here!" Usopp jumped of the head and ran up to Zoro. "Do you want to know?"

"No." He said without missing a beat.

Usopp frowned and went up to Nami sitting on a chair next to Robin. "How about you?"

Nami did not look up from her reading. "Fine."

"You don't sound too thrilled."

"She doesn't have that spark Mr. Announcer!" Anya shouted the lookout.

"Oh!" The sniper looked up to the lancer above him. "Do we have a woman who wants to know about the bravest warrior?"

"Sure do!" she shouted.

Nami ignored the antics and went back to reading. Next to her, Robin looked on with amusement. "I'm also curious."

"OH!" Usopp turned to the raven-haired woman with a twinkle in his eye. As he stood up it was almost as if the entire scenery turned bright yellow. "Another is interested in the masked warrior! Repeat after me and say it three times. "Choppermask!"

"Choppermask, Choppermask, Choppermask!" The twins shouted excitedly.

Then, the door to the cabin opened and appearing in all his glory was… Choppermask. The masked warrior sported a yellow and pink leotard, a pink cape and a pink mask with an x around his forehead. He performed a pose and leapt onto the deck and shouted. "Evil doers beware! I am here! The warrior of legend! ChoooopPPPER MASK!"

"CHOPPERMASK!" The sniper and the twins declared.

Robin let out a light sophisticated laugh, Nami rolled her eyes while smiled while Zoro shrugged. Sanji walked out from the doorway with a slightly amused look. He walked down and sat on the steps.

"You regret showing them Nami-swan?"

"I did not show them. Usopp found it and showed it to the others. It was just the three of them until Usopp decided Chopper to be the hero to get Anya to join them. When the two of them join forces it's like talking to one person."

"That behave differently when separate." Sanji spoke out. "Anya's obsession with animals and Luffy's love of meat.

"They both have passions." Robin turned a page. "Both of them have a drive that keeps them going… but."

"But?"

Robin smirked. "Nothing."

"Don't do that." Nami scowled. "Say something mysterious or not say it at all."

"It's adorable."

"Shut up." Sighed the navigator.

"I am here!" They looked at the scene and they collectively shared a snort at seeing Choppermask standing in front of them with his arms crossed. Standing behind them were the Choppermask trio, all sporting sunglasses and they too with their arms crossed. "Greetings."

"When Choppermask says hello! You say hi!" Usopp spoke out.

"Yep." The twins said in unison.

"Listen to the mightiest warrior…" said Luffy.

"…and be amazed!" finished Anya.

The siblings laughed out loud for a second before reverting to their serious gazes.

"Interesting." Robin sounded amused.

"Weren't you in the Crow's nest?" questioned Nami at the lancer.

"I don't know what you're talking about." She cheekily replied. "I've been here…"

"… the whole time." finished the captain.

"She jumped down while you were all distracted." Zoro spoke as he stopped his workout. "Luchadores are mighty warriors, right?"

"YES!" The group of four shouted.

"Luchadores are masked wrestlers." Robin informed them. "In some ways they are kind of like heroes in the ring. There is always a storyline concerning each one. They can be… average and repetitive."

Luffy, Anya, Usopp, and Choppermask jaw dropped in shock and dismay at Robin. "R-r-repetitive?!"

"Do you even know the meaning of that word, Luffy?" the chef asked

"That doesn't matter." whined the captain. "How can you say that?"

"She's a mature woman, brother." The Dragoon scowled in defiance. "Look at her! That face says she's too cool for average folk."

"Too cool." The sniper nodded in agreement. "She's too cool."

"Too cool." repeated Choppermask.

"That's not really an insult." spoke Nami with a sly smile. "I would've thought you would been jealous by certain commodities you might be lacking."

"I…I…" The violet haired woman whimpered as she crossed her arms across her chest. "I'm woman enough!"

"You act unlady sometimes." Said the swordsman.

Anya glared at him and walked away indignantly while keeping her cool. Luffy gazed at her and back at the swordsman. "You might have to apologize later, depends on the mood."

"It's the truth."

"Wow." Sanji scowled. "The ladies sure do flock to you."

"Shut up!"

"I don't get it." Choppermask said. "What happened?"

"Chopper, we can talk later about it." Whispered the sniper.

"No, you don't put thoughts in his head." Nami scolded. "Chopper it's a woman thing. Nothing more, nothing less."

"Eh." Luffy shrugged. "I don't really get it." His eyes started to twinkle in delight. "But is that any more important than a Luchador?!"

The blonde chef rolled his eyes at the captain. "Luffy, the female form is one of the important aspects of life. You're 17 right? Come back in 5 years."

"Hmm... so women are mysterious."

Nami smacked her forehead while Robin chuckled.

"Anya!" Usopp tattled to the dragoon. "Tell Sanji to stop filling your brother with pervert things?"

"Bad Sanji." Shouted the girl.

Sanji smirked at the girl. "Sorry, Anya-chan I won't do it. Luffy forget about it."

Luffy crossed his arms and tilted his head. "Hmm... fine."

"What if you met a girl that was a luchador?" inquired the sniper. "She might show you a thing or two."

"Then we can fight in the ring!" A determined smile appeared on the captain's face. "Then I'll find out the mystery."

"It will forever remain a mystery." Nami flipped a page in her book. "The day Luffy finds out it will be a miracle. Even if some Luchador woman comes out of nowhere and explains everything to him."

"Or the maiden of the Luchador." Robin said. "Some stories have some kind of maiden or priestess that will ask for the Luchador's help."

"And then they are deemed a Luchador?" awed Chopper.

"No, they don't need to be one through her. However, she will give plight and ask for help."

"It will be a journey of epic proportions." Smile Usopp.

"How epic?" Chopper smiled brightly.

"Beyond epic." Luffy cheered.

"Hey look!" Everyone turned to the violet haired girl. She stood on the figurehead while looking out at the ocean. "I think someone needs help. They're on a plank."

"How convenient." Nami closed her book, then walked over to the side of the ship. Sure enough there was a person lying on large wooden board further away from them.

"Oi," Luffy called out. "Bring them on board."

"Should we?" asked Zoro. "You never know it might be a trap."

"We'll keep an eye of them." Sanji strolled back to the cabin.

"It's a woman." Anya informed them.

The chef performed a 180 and shot to the front of the ship. "What are you idiots doing!" He glared at Zoro and Usopp. "Help her!"

"Why don't you do it!"

"Someone has to!" shouted Chopper. "They need treatment for whatever they have."

A while later the group rescued the woman from drifting on the poorly made raft. The woman in questioned had tan skin and short curly chocolate brown hair. She had on a white tank top, a pink jacket and matching pink skirt. She wore knee length socks and pink ankle length boots. She had on her hip a pair of tonfas.

"Is she okay Chopper?" asked Luffy.

"Other than scratches and torn clothing, she's fine."

"What was she doing on a raft?" Anya wondered out loud as she observed the woman. "It's a big ocean. Only a crazy person would do that."

"Have you seen the raft." Usopp frowned at the piece of wood sitting the middle of the deck. "That looks like a section of a boat."

"Someone attacked her." growled Sanji. "If I find the group, I'll murder them."

Nami was rummaging through the bag the girl had. "Maybe…"

"Any clues?"

Nami smiled brightly and pulled out an Eternal Log Pose with the name 'Los Batella'. "Looks like she was heading to this place when she got attacked."

"Ah." Robin eyed the Log Pose humorously. "That is an Eternal Log Pose. As you know it permanently has the destination locked. That place is… well why don't we take her back."

"You know what that place is?" Nami turned to the older woman. "Should I be worried?"

"Not really, no danger of any kind."

"In that case, I guess we can take a detour." Usopp slightly glanced at his friend. "How about it?"

"No reason not to." Luffy smiled lightly. "Might have some interesting things there."

"Mmm."

The group glanced down at the girl fidgeting slightly. She gently lifted her hand and placed it on her face.

"Damn," she moaned. "Where?" She opened her eyes slowly. "Am I… alive?" She opened her eyes and sat up. Her eyes narrowed as she observed the group looking at her curiously. "Huh? You all rescued me?" She then looked at Luffy and her eyes widen, she then looked around quickly, spotting Zoro and Anya. She sighed and lied flat on her back. "Ended up being saved by pirates. Fine, just to let you know I'm not going to do your bidding. Kill me if you want, but I will fight back."

"That is unless you make trouble." Nami crossed her arms. "What were you doing in the middle of the ocean? What happened?"

"Why should I tell some strangers? Let alone pirates?"

"That's up to you. It really isn't anybody's business." Zoro responded.

"Everybody has a hobby." Shrugged Usopp.

"It's not a hobby!" She growled and glanced at the group. "Are you going to keep me here?"

"Do you want to join my crew?" Luffy asked not all enthusiastic.

The girl gave a haughty expression. "No."

"Oh… okay." He said back with a shrug.

The girl seemed to be taken back by him relenting. "Huh? You gave up?"

"You don't have this air of interesting going for you." Anya spoke up. "Or you're just not cool enough."

The woman frowned deeply. "Oi, you don't even know me and you disapprove of me?"

Usopp raised an eyebrow at the girl with a slight confusion. "Why are you so offended about being turned down if you didn't want to in the first place?"

"I don't know, it's not like years of not being part of the popular clique left any lasting deep seated mental and psychological scars on me." She looked away. "Not like I WANT to be part of your group."

The group stared at her awkwardly, trying to wonder if she really had issues.

"So… you do want to be a pirate." Zoro asked.

"No, I hate being lonely!"

"Ah, there it is." Anya smirked. "Out in the open. Thanks for bundle of information."

Robin nodded. "Information that could be used against you. We could find a way to isolate you such as locking you in a soundproof dark room."

The girl shrunk in statement, lowered her head and held both hands together. Her posture resembled someone so vulnerable that she looked like she would be knocked down by the wind. "Don't say that." Her voice sounded squeaky

"WHAT HAPPENED TO THAT PROUD GIRL FROM BEFORE!" angrily shouted Zoro, Usopp, Nami, and Anya.

"That's adorable." Sanji got up and walked to the kitchen. "I'll make some soup for you."

"Not like I want soup or anything."

"I think she's Tsundere." Usopp whispered to Nami.

"What gave you that idea?" Nami grumbled. "You still did not answer the question."

"Fine, just don't isolate me from the rest of the world by throwing me into the ocean." She crossed her arms and looked away indignantly.

"Hmm." Anya rubbed her chin and contemplated. "Captain, should we lock her up and have her reveal her entire life?"

"Don't be stupid." Luffy sounded annoyed at the idea. "She's not trying to harm us right now nor denying us food."

"Or taking our beverages." Added the Pirate Hunter.

"Money." Nami added.

"Those too."

"Okay." The girl smacked her face at how ridiculous this crew is. "You want to know fine? I was on my way home until a pirate ship struck me and left. That's it."

"That's not too uncommon." Robin asked. "Did they take anything? Valuable?"

"No," said the girl. "They yelled out 'We're being paid to stop you'. And they blew up my ship. Luckily I managed to survive on that cruddy raft."

"Hmm." The sniper contemplated after hearing the tale. "How interested they told you they were being paid to stop you. Who are you and where are you going?"

"My name Rosemarie and I'm on my way to my home island to support my friend in the wrestling tournament."

"Wrestling!" Luffy, Chopper, and Usopp repeated with sparkles in their eyes. Nami groaned while Zoro chuckled.

"Uh yeah. He's a Luchador now an-."

"LUCHADOR!" The trio yelled out in excitement and ran around the ship. "Luchador! Luchador!" Then Chopper jumped on to their shoulders and held up the peace sing. "Choppermask is here!"

"Choppermask!" cheered Luffy, Usopp and Anya.

Witnessing the weird scene nearly gave Rosemarie a migraine. She buried her hands into her face at the strange turn her life took by stumbling upon a ship filled with strange pirates. "Ugh."

"Ignore them." The navigator informed her. "That's normal."

"Normal!" Rosemarie pointed at them with exasperation. "That's normal? You all aren't bloodthirsty at all."

"Looks can be deceiving." Nami spoke up with a mischievous smile. "Each of them is dangerous in their own way. So please have an open mind so you won't die of a brain aneurism."

"That's not how it works." Chopper mumbled to himself.

"Whatever." Rosemarie sighed. "I just need to help a friend."

"Your friend is strong?" Chopper sounded marveled.

"Maybe, but I left home 7 years ago for an internship and stayed there. I visit twice a year, but the Luchador thing is… new. Why he's doing it is his own reason."

"To fight for justice?"

She shook her head as a small smile curled up on her face. "It's just something between the two of us." She sighed. "I never wanted him to become a Luchador in the first place."

"Why not?" Luffy groaned. "It's something he wants to do right? If he feels it, then he'll do it."

"It's not simple, Strawhat." The woman scoffed. "Yes, there is a tournament and the legend to go along with it, but there is more, he became one to find out the truth about… you want to know more? Take me to my island… please."

Luffy laughed. "Let's go! Nami find out where it is."

The orange haired woman grasped the Eternal Pose and gaze up at the sky. "Leave it to me."

The next day around noon the island was in full view from the ship.

"Is that it?" inquired Nami.

Rosemarie nodded. "Yes."

As the ship moved closer, the distant sound of music could be heard and getting louder. Usopp grabbed his binoculars and looked ahead. A smile boomed on his face at the. "Woah, that looks like a party and…. LUCHADORES!"

"Luchadores!" shouted the captain and doctor in unison.

"We made it time for the tournament." said the tanned skinned woman. "I have been dying for the local cuisine for a while. The meat they make for this occasion is almost on par as the meat at Water 7."

Robin perked up at the name. "Are you by any chance a shipwright?"

"No, I been there as a reporter and interviewed Shipwrights."

"Really?" Usopp tossed the binoculars to Luffy. The captain and doctor looked through them. Excitement continued to swell the closer they got and the sight of masked wrestlers. "What are they like?

"They are an interesting bunch, if I do say so." She looked around the ship at the makeshift repairs. "I think they would scoff at the repairs of this ship."

The remark struck a nerve in the man. "Hey! I worked very hard on it." He yelled out. "This ship was a gift from a friend of mine and I'm taking care of it." To him, insulting the ship was an insult to his friend Kaya. He would not stand for that.

She frowned and held back on chewing him out. The look in his eyes and his posture told her the boy would not take her criticism lightly. A random ship is one thing, a gift is another thing. They would have to find someone who can fix the ship or get a new one.

She then glanced at the group. "Okay, at this time the town is festive. I should have gotten here yesterday to watch the second round. Now we're on the final round and I don't know if my friend is in the last round."

"But what about those pirates that attacked you?" The chef questioned the girl. "You said they were paid right?"

"Whoever did must not want you to come here." Finished Zoro. "You might still be a target."

"I can take care of myself." She gripped her hand. "I'm a reporter. I leap into danger. I know how to handle myself."

"Alright." Luffy turned around to face the group. "Let's go!"

A while later the group made it to port where they furled up the sales and put away the flag, Rosemarie feared the civilians would panic about pirates. As they walked across the port a man saw them and his eyes widen in recognition of Strawhat Luffy. A gasp escaped his mouth at seeing Rosemarie alive and well. Why was she alive and with these pirates?

"He's not going to like this."

The town had a cheerful vibe going for it with decorations plastered all over buildings and signs. Food stands and entertainment were on the streets and people dancing to music as well as happily conversing with their peers. The Strawhats and their guest were walking around the town.

The group took interest in the festivities. Zoro snagged a few alcoholic beverages while Luffy, Anya, Usopp, and Chopper played around with the games and enjoyed the food. Sanji gazed at the woman and tried a few dishes he thought about making later.

Rosemarie ignored their antics; she could not believe this crew received a high bounty between the swordsman and the twins. In the few short years she had been a reporter, she had got a good look at the pirate life. They were nasty, dirty, and never kept themselves up to date on hygiene. This crew was different… too different.

She asked a passerby about the tournament. She learned the finals were still going on. She marched down the path with Luffy and others following her. Soon they came across a large tent at the outskirts of town.

"It's in there?" Usopp said as she looked at the tent in anticipation.

"Yes." She said with steeled resolve and marched to the tent.

Chopper looked at the girl, sensing something wrong. "I feel she's still unhappy."

"Maybe her friend did something like tell her an unfunny joke." The strawhat teen casually said.

"If that's the case she's holding a grudge for something so trivial." Said the lancer.

"Some jokes can be too hurtful." The chef added as he stepped beside the girl.

The group did not say another word and approached the large crowd They were met with an intense atmosphere as people were cheering and jeering at two wrestlers in the ring. Rosemarie stood in front of them and glared at the ring.

"Woah!" awed Usopp, Chopper, and Luffy.

Anya looked toward the ring and spotted and spotted two men. One of the men donned a brown-furred trunks, fur boots and a bison mask complete with horns. He was muscular and rotund. His opponent was toned as well, but was smaller than him. The smaller man wore a black mask with feathers around it, acting as a rooster. He wore a black jumpsuit that hung tight against his body. Along with the attire were yellow shorts, gloves, boots and a small yellow cape.

The violet haired woman turned to the girl. "Is he up there?"

Rosemarie nodded. "The one with the cape."

Zoro peered at the two fighters, eyeing them critically. He shrugged and closed his eyes, not caring for the outcome. "This is already over."

"Yep." Sanji agreed with the swordsman. "The smaller guy got this in the bag."

"What?" A man next to him sounded offended. "You curly browed twigged jackass." The man got in Sanji's face. "How dare you say El Bison will lose to Sombra Gallo."

Robin giggled. "The bison vs the Shadow Rooster."

The chef growled at his space being violated and shoved the man away. "Why don't you watch and learn you drunken piece of s-."

"Soup! Get you soup here!" A food vendor walked through the crowd while broadcasting the delicacy. Many went up to pay for it.

"No seriously." Nami walked beside Rosemarie. "Are you okay with your friend? He's not in the same league of strength."

"Nami." Anya spoke up. "Use your eye for knowing the weather and analyze it."

"It's not the same."

"Money? He might be rich?"

"Shut up."

Ignoring the two pirates, Rosemarie watched in anticipation of the event. She watched her friend tense up as the bison dashed toward him. The rooster ducked under a lariat technique and ran toward the rope. He collided against it and used it to rocket himself at the man. The bison turned around only to receive a powerful kick to face, knocking him over. After the giant man fell the rooster jumped on top, prompting the countdown to be called.

"He did it!" Chopper cheered

After the ref counted to ten the man reached down and unmasked the bison. Showing the world that his mask was removed, the man raised it up as a trophy.

"THERE YOU HAVE IT! THE SOMBRA GALLO HAS BEEN DECLARED THE VICTOR! Tomorrow! He will be facing off against Green Diablo. One of them will be the victor and be able to hold back the volcanic Behemoth! Find out tomorrow!"

Cheer and jeers were held as the contest concluded for the day. The contestants walked off the stage and went to their respected changing areas. The Sombra Gallo walked along the crowd, looking at them with pride. He stopped when his eyes landed on the tanned beauty looking at him with angrily.

"Rosemarie?"

"Raymond." The girl spoke out to him to a not to happy greeting.

The man felt the disappointment radiate off her. He exhaled softly and stared at her. "Not here, let me change and meet out at my place." He looked at the group behind her. "And these guys?"

Roesmarie was interrupted by the pirate captain as he practically teleported in front of him with a big dumb grin. "I have a lot of questions about Luchadores!"

"Wh-what?" Raymond backed as he was shocked at the teen's forwardness."

Rosemarie looked annoyed and glared at the navigator. "He's the captain?"

Nami smiled sweetly at the girl. "Yes."

The same man from the port approached an old man with a medium build. Had a bald spot on the top of his head, leaving the rest of the hair on either side. He had on a gray tunic with white pants. The old man was seen painting before he was interrupted with the news.

"The girl survived and with arrive with a pirate group?" He narrowed his brows slightly

"Yes." The man said. "Is there anything you want? Mayor Juan?"

Juan smirked slightly. "No, what is done is done. I'll handle the rest, tell the pirates to be on standby and be ready."

"But."

"Life is short to worry and I do intend to carry out my last act. Whether she is alive or dead."

Raymond blinked at the already smaller group. "Where did they go?"

Nami smiled. "To do their own thing."

After meeting the man, Raymond led them to his house. Unfortunately, Zoro took a wrong turn somewhere, prompting Anya to find him. Robin and Sanji left due to the former wanting to look up information. This left Luffy, Nami, Usopp, and Chopper remaining. The trio were more interested in his presence and Nami did not want them to annoy the group too much.

Rosemarie frowned slightly. "Is that safe? Whoever is after me will get them. It's best to stay in a group."

"Don't worry." Usopp brushed them. "The four of them will be just fine."

"The chef and the other woman don't have weapons." Raymond answered.

"Trust me." Nami retorted. "They will be just fine."

"Don't worry about them," Rosemarie stood in front of him, leering at the wrestler. "Look at me. What made you go after him?"

"You know why. Last time you visited, 3 years ago. He killed them."

"We can't prove that."

"What happened?" asked the doctor.

Raymond sighed. "Three years ago, my older sister and our friend were killed. We suspected it was Mayor Juan, but it was never proven. Although, my sister was killed after Jack was killed. He told her there was a secret that shook him to his core. It involved Mayor Juan."

"Unfortunately, he never told her, but she figured it out and told us not to do anything about it. After hearing about his death, she went to see him. A day later her body was discovered by the ravine."

"That's unfortunate." Nami questioned.

"It's the way they were killed… it was like an animal ripped them apart leaving only their heads as a warning."

"WHAAA!" Usopp and Chopper screamed in horror while Nami looked just as startled. Luffy frowned slightly. He turned toward the man.

"So… you're going to fight it?"

"You're missing the point!" shouted Usopp.

"No…" Raymond shook his head. "The crowning Luchador doesn't fight it at all."

"What?" The rubber man sounded confused. "Then what's the point?"

"The legend itself says that the winner is the champion." Rosemarie informed them. "The champion is shown to be the strongest of the entire village. So strong that his or her might holds back the beast. The beast knows who the strongest is and chooses not to act in fear of death."

"It's always the night before the tournament when the beast reveals itself and roars out a threat of violence." Raymond picked up.

"That's awful!" awed the doctor.

"The beast is goading the champion." Usopp smirked. "Asking for a new champion to rise. If one does come, the beast runs off with its tail between its legs.

"But." Nami hummed. "You think the beast is linked to the mayor."

"We think he's behind it." Rosemarie said. "The legend started on this island by his family over 600 years ago."

"His family only help organized the tournament and have some sway in the politics." added the Luchador. "Only a few people in the family were ever mayor."

"You think this is a legacy of deception?" asked Nami.

"I think something is going on." Raymond clenched his fists. "My friend and sister got murdered and the matter was dropped without an investigation. Everyone wanted to move on and the case was closed. I want to win the tournament, so I can get him to admit it to everyone"

"You want to win the tournament and get him to talk." Said Luffy. "Got it, but are you sure that will work?"

"Probably not."

Luffy rubbed his chin. "Hmmm, well... we'll sit back and watch how it goes."

"You're not leaving?"

"Why would we?" asked the captain innocently

"Luffy, he might come after us." Nami looked back at him. "We're involved because we brought her here. Far as we know he might use his influence to get us killed."

"If he comes after us, I'll handle it." He chuckled. "Unless he goes after the others then it's already done." He faced Raymond with a smile. "Not really my business unless he seeks us out. Go win the tournament and talk to him."

"Uh…" Raymond did not know what to say. "Thanks?"

"And?" Rosemarie crossed her arms and glared at the captain. "He might ignore him and try to kill him and me. Worse if he is the beast then he'll kill murder us good."

"I'll slug that beast because you're cool." Luffy chuckled.

"I'm cool?" Raymond said, not believing the captain. "Why?"

"Because that mask makes you the best warrior out there." Luffy declared seriously. "From what I heard, a Luchador is a man of honor and pride. So, you're awesome."

"YEAH!" Chopper and Usopp shouted proudly.

"Even if I'm just doing for the truth?"

Luffy nodded. "People fight for what they believe in all the time, even those I don't like. The main thing is you're fighting for your friends and family. You had a sister and you're doing everything you can to find out if it was him and face the consequences. Your truth might land him in jail."

"Exactly." Usopp crossed his arms dramatically. "Whether to earn a prize or to find the truth, your mask means you are willing to go above and beyond the line of duty."

"You're going to take the truth even if it kills." Chopper declared. "If it does, I'll heal you?"

"You can heal death?" Rosemarie said with disbelief in her voice.

"No." The doctor chuckled sheepishly. "I know we can't bring back the dead. That's just stupid and against medical science… and nature… too many ethics though." Chopper pondered his statement. "Would we be offending a deity if we do?"

"Very good question." Usopp turned the reindeer. "I wouldn't be surprised if there is a Devil Fruit that can bring the dead back."

"Just roll with it." Nami sighed. "Prepare yourself for an encounter with him."

"Alright." Rosemarie rubbed her head. "Then… stick around for tomorrow. Remember what I said."

"Yeah, yeah." Luffy waved her off as he walked out the door. "I'll punch whoever comes at us, even if he becomes some kind of beast."

"Bye." Nami waved at the duo as left the room with Chopper and Usopp.

Rosemarie watched them leave the room. She looked back the man and frowned. "I'm still upset."

"I'm sorry." Raymond sat down on a chair. "But I'm going to do it."

"Yeah…" Rosemarie rubbed her temple. "I'll make you some soup. Old times."

"Why did you drag me here?" Zoro complained to the captain's sister.

"You wandered off and I had to find you. Plus, there are cool things to do around here.

Anya had dragged the man to sit in front of Caricature Artist. Zoro watched the girl whisper something to the artist and then forced the swordsman to sit.

"Don't move he's going to draw us with some exaggeration."

"What?" Zoro looked to her.

"Face the man!" She shouted ordered and he promptly turned back to him. "It's called a Caricature. Master and I got one over a year ago. They take your image and recreate it in a goofy style." She smiled widely at him. "Please do this."

The man mentally sighed. "Fine."

After a while, the man was done and revealed the image. Anya smirked while Zoro gaped. The picture was them as a pair of beavers with their faces on them. They were holding their weapons as if they were in a fight. The girl squealed in delight, paid the man, and took the picture.

"This is adorable!" She giggled while turning around showing it. "I'm happy how this turned out."

"Like an abomination." thought the swordsman. He looked at the girl taking delight in the image and smiled slightly. "But it seems to make her happy. I'll let it go." He shrugged and said. "Just make sure the cook doesn't see it."

"Sanji doesn't need to know." She winked at him. "Our secret memory, let's get you some alcohol."

The swordsman chuckled at her. "Think bribing me with alcohol will get me to forgive you?"

"Yes."

"Then, you're paying."

"MAKE WAY FOR TOMORROW'S CHAMPION!"

The duo turned to look while the crowd parted to make way for a man with a muscular build, wearing a green jumpsuit and a green and brown mask. He smiled widely as he waved at the people around. A man wearing a suit and sunglasses walked next to him announcing the man.

"WE LOVE YOU!"

"BEST CHAMP!"

The sunglasses man grinned sharply. "That's right! The 'Green Diablo' will show the Sombra Gallo that there can only be one champion. Who is that champion?"

"Green Diablo!"

"Yeah!" Everyone shouted with excitement.

Green Diablo smiled proudly as he waved at the group. He grabbed a bunch of roses and gave one each of the women before him. He gave one to Anya as he passed by. Anya stared at the rose and gave it to her green haired companion."

"Why are you giving it to me?"

"I don't want it. I don't like roses."

"Neither do I. Give it to the cook."

"And him declare his love for me?"

"Yeah, never mind."

A flash of yellow appeared in spear user's view and plucked the rose from her hand. "Then I'll take it!"

Standing before them was a man wearing a white shirt, a yellow vest and matching yellow pants. Black boots with buckles donned his feet with matching black gloves. His brown hair flowed down to his shoulders. Matching the hair color was a mustache. The man smirked at the flowers in his hands and back at the duo.

Zoro narrowed his eyes at the group while Anya scowled at the man.

"Hey." Anya spoke. "You didn't have to take it!"

"You didn't want it, Lavender Lancer." His gazed at Zoro. "Pirate Hunter."

"You know us huh." Zoro spoke in a way that did not need an answer. "Are we going to have any trouble?"

"Allow me to introduce myself." He bowed slightly at them and took Anya's hand as he was about to kiss it.

"I know who you are." Anya jerked her hand away and stuck it up Zoro's nose. The swordsman smacked it away. "'Yellow Blade' Savanto."

"Ah, so you do know me."

"I have a habit of looking at bounties." She rubbed the back of her head. "Not all the time, just every now and then so I don't always recognize people, but I know you have been in the game for a few years."

"And you just under a few months."

"What do you want?" Zoro asked.

"Watch it." A man behind the pirate growled. "Know you are talking to the captain."

"Don't care."

"HEY!" The man was about to do something until Savanto held his arm out in front of him. "Huh?"

"Don't act rash," Savanto said "Now is not the time to fight… yet."

"Eh." Anya shrugged. "We can fight now if you want?"

"Be patient Miss Lavender." He laughed amusingly and walked away with his crew."

Anya scowled at her. "What a crusty old man."

"Next time he tries to flirt at you, break his hand."

"Hmm." Anya smiled teasingly. "Jealous?

"No." Zoro started looking around. "And the bar?"

"Fine" Anya faced him with a smile. "We'll get some rum!"

Robin closed a book she was reading. "Hmm…"

"Something wrong?" Sanji asked as the two were sitting outside a food establishment.

"This island has a legend in itself."

"Well." Sanji stirred his tea. "People have been talking about the tournament and some beast appearing each time before the tournament starts. It's all a tradition and fun." He took a puff of his cigarette. "But Rose-san is scared of something."

"It's harmless fun." Robin looked around. "Maybe there is a secret."

"Or not." Shrugged the chef. "That's between Rose-san and her friend."

"Yes…but I think there is secret" The woman leaned in. "I was hoping I would go there tomorrow."

"Anything for you." He said soothingly. "What is it?"

"Tomorrow, the final round is held near the base of a volcano…" She looked toward the direction of the volcano. "There is a temple close by I wish to explore"

"Then I shall accompany you."

Raymond sat at the bar alone after his conversation with Rosemarie. He needed to get fresh air and get something to eat as well as temporary reprieve of the events. Nothing too heavy, but just enough for a buzz. No one bothered hm out of costume and he enjoyed that. He would be alone in his thoughts.

"Am I over my head?" He thought. "I'm participating to find the truth."

-Flashback-

Raymond stood in front of Mayor Juan. The old man gazed up at the young man. "What?"

"I said… if I win the tournament this year. I want you tell me the truth."

The old man chuckled at him. "What truth?"

"You know what I mean? The death of my sister. I want the truth from you."

"Careful, child." The man spoke harshly. "You should always know what your opponent is capable of." The old man stood up from his desk and walked forward. "But… I will tell you… if you win."

-End-

"Now I feel like I'm risking my life." He sighed. "Am I?"

"Hey!" Raymond looked turned around. He saw four rugged looking outlaws approach him. The one in front smiled deviously at the Luchador. "You're the Sombra Gallo."

"Yes?"

"I got a message." He smiled. "Something you need to hear."

Night emerged on the island. The excitement started to dwindle with many people heading back home. The Strawhats were back on the Going Merry, telling each other about their activities throughout the day. Sanji made the group churros as a treat.

"These are great." Luffy gobbled them. "Churros? Try to make these all the time."

"Only on special occasions." chided the chef. "I'm reserving it mostly for parties or special occasions."

"Special occasions, got it." He swallowed the food and then turned to Archeologist. "So, you want to find this temple? Sounds fun."

"I would like to visit it during the final round." said Robin. "All eyes will be on the fight. I want to get in and out as soon as possible."

"I'll watch the tournament." Usopp replied.

"Me too."

"Same." Zoro said. "Might as well enjoy the fight."

"I volunteered to be with Robin-chan." Said Sanji.

"I'll go." Said Anya. "Sounds like a mystery."

"I'll go with you all." Said the navigator.

"Hmmm." Luffy crossed his arms and squinted his eyes as he pondered. "Fight or mystery temple. I wonder."

"HELLO!" shouted a voice outside the ship. "ANYBODY THERE?!"

"Rose-san!" Sanji rushed over to edge of the ship. "You missed me!"

Sanji looked over and saw Rosemarie walking toward them, but he noticed a worried expression on her face. "What's wrong?"

The group walked to the edge of the ship and looked down. Luffy dropped down and greeted the girl.

"Hey," the strawhat greeted. "You look hungry."

"No." she scowled. "I'm not thinking about food. I got this." She held out a note and looked behind her. "I don't know if I'm being followed or not."

"Someone is threatening you!" growled Sanji as he leapt down and grabbed the note. He narrowed his eyes at the message. "They want him to throw the match or else you die?"

"Are you kidding?" gasped Usopp. "You should never throw a match! That's not honorable."

"Is it the mayor?" asked Luffy. "A Luchador should not be forced to throw a match."

"Right!" shouted Usopp and Chopper.

"I'd be pretty angry too." Zoro spoke up. "However, he's doing it to protect you, right?"

"Yes, and he might get killed if he refuses." She put both her index fingers together and pouted. "It might be my fault though." She quickly snapped out depression. "But I can't let him get killed." Rosemarie clenched her fist and stared up at the group. Her decision had already been made. "If Raymond and I die, then Juan can make it an accident just like his sister and other friend." She clenched her hands tight. "I can't stand it." She looked toward Luffy and took a deep breath. "It would be stupid and dangerous to ask, but… can you help me?"

Luffy chuckled. "Yeah, just throw in some recipes."

"That's it?" The woman was slightly surprised.

"Can't let the Sombra Gallo's name be put down."

"What do we do?"

"Spend the night here and we can discuss what to do next." Said the navigator.

"What? But?"

"They know where you live." The chef walked further behind the woman as he peered into town. Noticing a minimal number of people out. "It would be safer with us than home, even if you can take care of yourself." He smiled at her. "We'll discuss tomorrow."

"Come on." Luffy called out.

Rosemarie thought it over for a bit. Spending the night on a pirate ship of her own will was strange and stupid. Any other time and she would've declined, but this crew was different. It would not hurt if she did spend the night one more time.

"Okay."

Deep in the forest, Mayor Juan stood in front of the temple near the base of the dormant volcano. He sighed and turned his attention toward a large group before him. At the front was Savanto. Next to him was a man with a pair of tonfas. He wore a gray vest, yellow pants, and green hair.

"What's inside?" Savanto asked

"There used to be a treasure stored here long ago, but the temple was ransacked and its contents stolen. All that remains is a strange tablet."

"Why kill for this?"

"No reason." He snorted. "Keep the tradition alive through any means." He scoffed. "Otherwise, we would be lost." He stared at the temple once more. "Tomorrow, remind the boy and find the girl. If she is with those pirates, then you can handle them."

The man nodded. "Alright." He turned around. "Come on men."

After they left, the leader chuckled to himself. "Of course, if they fail and the boy ignores my warnings. I will have to take care of it myself."

He chuckled as his teeth started to sharpen.

A/N: There you have it. R and R