Chapter 19 - Calm before the Storm


Cover Art by Quire


Benedict still couldn't quite believe it.

They'd done it. They'd finally beat the bandits, their leader, all their forces at once. If that was true then the bandit threat to Loguetown was finally gone. No more bandits means no more raids. His home was safe at last. The people, the town, his mentor, and the clinic. He could breathe easy again, finding peace in that knowledge.

But there was still work to be done here and now.

Benedict finished tightening the bandages round the leg of someone he was quite familiar with on Loguetown.

"Thanks for your help today, Ben." Crow spoke as the doctor finished tending to the wound he sustained in his battle with Bhorn earlier that day. The rifle wielder nodded his appreciation as well as he spoke.

"I did very little besides take a beating." He grunted back at the wanna-be marine. "I wasn't the one to take that scum-fuck, Cecil, down." If he was being honest, he felt as though he did very little this time. Sure, he fought two people but he defeated neither. Wilt had escaped to who knows where, and Cecil had been taken down by that Itzal.

And he took him down hard.

Benedict would have had a bit of a tougher time taking Cecil down, and while he was confident he could have taken him down, Itzal just destroyed him. The young doctor could tell he hadn't gone all out against Cecil, which was even more impressive.

"Not enough of a beating to keep you down though," Crow countered with his usual soft smile as he gestured to the doctors own injuries which were covered by bandages and such courtesy of his mentor, Raphael. "Besides, this is enough, Ben, you know that."

He did.

Benedict knew the importance of helping after a battle. Fighters needed their wounds treated, innocents who might have been caught in the crossfire would be the same, and they would all need medical attention in some form.

Luckily though, today had been easier on everyone. Usually when a raid occurred, the clinic got an influx of patients needing aid. Today was different though, and he knew exactly why too.

A certain band of pirates and their allies.

As the young doctor finished up tending to Crow, his eyes made their way to a certain bunch of pirates off within their own group.

He knew all their names, as some had introduced themselves upon showing up here after the battle, Itzal, Rob, Zarina, Francis, Arabella, and their pet monkey, Sherlock.

These were the people that had joined in the defense of Loguetown with no obvious gain in it for themselves. Sure, they tended to the ex-bounty hunters' wounds but that hardly equated to dealing with an entire bandit raid on the island's behalf.

But Benedict was grateful for the fact that they did help. He knew things wouldn't have gone so smoothly if they hadn't intervened. Cecil was stronger than Benedict had expected, and whilst he was confident he could have beat the bandit one on one, it would have been a lot to handle if he had to deal with Wilt and all the other bandits that had attacked the clinic.

Rob and Zarina had been crucial to the defense of the clinic, and from what Crow had told him, Itzal, Arabella, and Francis had been the ones to deal with the majority of the bandits in the main town itself alongside Crow and Raven. Hell, Arabella had off-handley mentioned fighting some weird swordswoman when she and Itzal had raced here, which the young doctor figured was Wilt. It was unfortunate that she escaped but Benedict knew she wasn't that much of a threat on her own, not with so many people around.

And amazingly, none of them suffered any major injuries either. The only one who took any form of slight damage was Itzal, and apparently he healed himself not long after they'd returned to the clinic whilst everyone else was finished wrapping up their bandit prisoners.

The young pirate mentioned something about Life Return helping him heal, some kind of technique he'd been trained to use all his life. Regardless, it made things easier since he didn't need Benedict to patch him up.

When his eyes found the group of them, he saw… a strange sight.

What he saw was Itzal, the man who had helped protect his home, sat on the ground with his legs crossed over one another right next to the massive pile of gathered weapons that had been disarmed from the bandits. A small smile sat on his face as he picked up a few at once and… proceeded to insert them into his red hot molten chest? The weapons seemed to melt as they were absorbed into his chest, and as soon as a few swords were metaled away he reached for another set.

The doctor wasn't the only one who was confused as he heard Crow mutter the words What even. Benedicts' eyes glanced over to the rest of Itzals friends to gage their reactions, needless to say they were varied.

Arabella looked on with some slight awe, but was also giggling silently to herself at the sight.

Zarinas' expression could honestly be summed as a deadpan, he saw a subtle shake of the head but otherwise she didn't really react.

Francis seemed more curious than anything. Perhaps wondering what the fuck Itzal was doing in the first place, and why did it have to look like he was stabbing himself?

Rob… didn't really give a fuck. He didn't even bat an eye when he glanced over. Instead, he just seemed to shrug Itzals actions off. He did chuckle silently as he watched everyone stare at Itzal for a moment, but other than that he didn't react.

Raphaels' reaction practically mirrored his apprentices. Confusion, and a lot of it. There was no sense of awe others usually had when they first saw a devil fruit, and that was likely because he had helped train Benedict in using his. But given how this was the first time his mentor had seen Itzal's devil fruit abilities, it was fair he'd be a tad confused.

Raven was perhaps the one who appeared the most unaffected. Her body faced away from the group, hand resting on her blade's hilt as she stood guard by the rounded up bandits. At first, glance that's how it looked anyway. However, if one paid close attention to her facial features you could see her eyes betrayed her stoic appearance as they locked onto Itzal and his… feeding? Who knows?

So it seemed nearly everyone had found Itzals' action weird.

But nobody bothered to comment on it as Rob went to strike up a conversation again, with Itzal joining in immediately, as if nothing was weird about the situation, before Arabella, Zarina, and Francis also joined in. With everyone seeming to ignore the oddity, Raven too attempted to ignore it, going back to focusing on her duty, guarding the prisoners.

And like that, the moment passed.

Benedict heard Crow chuckle quietly.

"Come on, let's go join them," Crow said, tapping Benedicts' shoulder as he stood up, careful not to put too much pressure on his injured leg. He began moving over to the rest of the group, with Benedict following alongside him.

The pair joined in on the conversation just as Arabella was speaking.

"Woah, you thought it was a good idea to fight that Cecil bitch with wounds like yours?" Arabella semi-asked, eyes roaming the ex-bounty hunters bandaged chest for a moment, "Damn! You're certainly your own type of crazy, ain't ya?" The redheaded helmswoman wore the most entertained smile imaginable as she gave Rob a small Woop!

Rob merely shrugged off her comments with an added easy-going smile, "I just smacked him around for a bit. Itzal was the one to face him head-on, zoan forms and all." He grinned at his captain, "He was the one who busted up that scumbag so badly."

Itzal stopped midway through- stabbing? Melting?- a sword into his chest as he looked to his First Mate, "He wasn't even that strong, he was just tricky with his speed."

"You would have beaten him quicker if he didn't have that zoan," Rob countered, "Zoan users are highly durable." Itzal just nodded his agreement as he went back to whatever it was he was doing.

"You must be quite strong to do what you did." Benedict spoke, joining the conversation alongside Crow, which everyone was perfectly fine with.

Itzal turned to the doctor and smiled, "Someone like that would never be able to stop me, my ambitions are too large to be stopped by the likes of him!" Everyone smiled in some form at the young captain's words. Although Crow and Raven don't know what his ambition is, the others did, and they had to respect the confidence he had in his own ambition.

Benedict remained silent for a moment as he thought back to the young captain's declaration during their battle with Cecil earlier.

Pirate King.

That was Itzals ambition. Something so grand, so unbelievable, but one Itzal seemed certain he'd achieve.

Benedict had to admit he could respect the pirate captain for striving for such an ambition. It made him think of his own, long repressed ambition. One he could only ever think about in his dreams.

His odd silence didn't go unnoticed.

One who noticed was, of course, his mentor, Raphael.

The older doctor watched Benedict closely, observing him and his body language. If there was anything Raphael was certain of, it was his ability to read his apprentice. He knew when there was something bothering him, he knew Benedict too well.

So to see him so silent?

Raphael took an estimated guess as to what it was about. His eyes moved from his apprentice to the young pirate captain who had, more than likely, ended Loguetowns bandit problem with the defeat of Cecil. It was clear to the aged doctor that the young pirate had said or done something that made Benedict oddly silent and with how he mentioned ambitions, Raphael knew exactly what was on his apprentice's mind.

But he also knew exactly what was so troubling about it.

Raphael sighed quietly to himself. To see his apprentice so contemplative and yet so unsure was something he didn't see often, and it was one he never liked. It hurt in a way. He knew exactly where Benedict's mind was.

Although, in the past, Raphael never had any luck in regards to dealing with this issue, now seemed like the best possible point. With the bandits taken care of, little held Benedict back, and not only that, he had the perfect opportunity right in front of him.

Raphael glanced toward a certain pirate captain, who had finally stopped absorbing metal into his chest, and smiled.

Itzal was exactly what Raphael needed to give Benedict that final push.

Raphael moved toward Itzal, hands behind his back. He tuned in on the conversation the young captain was having with his redhaired comrade.

"Is that injury gonna slow us down?" The young captain asked from his seated position on the ground. Although he was asking about an injury he didn't seem all that concerned, more so question if they could go. Raphael might have thought that harsh, but judging by his comrades' expression, Itzal seemed to have complete faith that his first mate was strong enough regardless. Like he didn't need to worry about him.

"I'm ready to go when you are." Rob nodded toward Itzal, a small smirk across his face. Arabella, who stood next to the bandaged man, smiled at the two of them. Francis, who stood opposite, did the same.

"Alright, we'll set sail tonight then!" Itzal announced with a fist pump. His announcement earned various types of smiles from everyone present. Well, except Raven. She remained rather stoic.

Raphael chose now to join in.

"In my medical opinion, your friend should be ready to travel again come tomorrow." The older doctor added, gaining the attention of the others present.

"So he should be all good by tomorrow? No issues?" Itzal asked for clarification. Although Raphael was sure if his friend said he was fine he'd trust him.

Raphael hummed, "Correct. If your friend doesn't reopen his wound or tear a stitch he should be perfectly fine." He inclined his head toward the man in question as he spoke.

"If that is fine with you, Itzal, then we'll be all good by tomorrow," Rob replied, waving off the attention he'd gotten. It was apparent to some here that he still didn't see his injury as a big deal.

Itzal smirked, "So it's settled! We'll set off early tomorrow!"

"Wise choice," Raphael agreed, "It will also give you a chance to recover from today's battles." The older doctor chuckled, "Well, give others a chance to recover." He gestured to some of the others present, including Qrow, Raven, Zarina, and Francis.

The young pirate just smiled sheepishly, "Yeah, I guess everyone needs a break." Raphael suspected Itzal didn't, and by the looks of the two redheads, neither did Rob and Arabella.

But he was sure everyone else was grateful for the respite.

"May I speak with you for a moment, young man?" Raphael asked, his question directed to Itzal, of course. "In private."

Itzal just shrugged with a smile, "Sure!" The young pirate jumped up from his sitting position with gusto. "Lead the way!"

Raphael smiled, gesturing with one arm toward the clinic, "This way then."

With that, the two moved toward the clinic before disappearing inside.


Zarina watched as Itzal and Raphael entered the clinic. What they were gonna discuss was anyone's guess. But if it was a private matter then it wasn't her place to intrude. Instead, her eyes made its way back to the others waiting outside.

At the moment it seemed that everyone had broken into pairs, with Crow and Raven standing guard of the prisoners. Obviously, Crow was far more relaxed about it, whereas Raven stood as still and rigid as a statue, like a marine on post.

It was good to see genuine good people wishing to join the marines to do good by the people they claimed to protect. The pair of aspiring marines were an inspiration, and if they kept to their morals they would also be model marines that many should strive to be like.

The next pairing was Rob and Arabella, which for the briefest moment worried Zarina since she knew that leaving those two to their own devices was a recipe for disaster. Luckily however, the pair seemed to be idly chatting, with Arabella doing most of the talking. The scholar could hear some of what she was saying, asking about the fights, his injuries, where they were off to next, whilst Rob gave some half-assed response or joke in response.

She was just about to look for Benedict just as someone spoke to her.

"You seem awfully calm." The scholar turned to see it was Francis who had spoken to her. Sherlock the monkey was perched on his shoulder, perfectly happy and content. He walked up to her as she moved slightly to allow him to sit on the same bench as her. Sherlock jumped from the navigator's shoulder as he sat down and landed on the backrest of the bench between the pair.

Her expression remaining somewhat neutral as she spoke, "There isn't much to be concerned about." She countered as her eyes shifted back to the other groups, Francis doing the same, "The bandits have been dealt with, nobody was killed through all the fighting, and we might just actually get an easy time on the island tonight for our efforts."

Francis smiled softly, "We certainly got through the day, didn't we?"

Zarina's lips twitched upward slightly, "It appears we did."

"But that wasn't what I was asking you about." Francis continued, Zarina glancing toward him slightly in response. "You don't seem all that worried about where you're going next." He noted, "I assume that's because you've figured out what you want to do."

His observation couldn't be any more true.

Now it was Zarina's turn to smile softly, eyes drifting upward slightly to gaze up into the sky.

"That I have." She freely admitted. A brief lapse in silence between the two occurred before Zarina continued, "And it seems like I'm not the only one." She didn't turn to face Francis but he knew who he was referring to.

The navigator didn't even respond, instead just choosing to smirk ever so slightly.

That was all Zarina needed to know.

The pair continued to smile as Sherlock jumped from his perch on the bench onto Zarina's lap. If this happened before meeting this crew she would have freaked out about a monkey being on her, now she just accepted it as the little monkey began to play and roll on her lap with the scholar occasionally giving it a lazy, playful poke.

The scholar looked back to the groups before noticing something.

Or a lack of someone.

She didn't see Benedict.

"I didn't even notice Benedict leave." She admitted as she looked in other directions in search of the doctor.

"Neither did I," Francis also conceded, "But I think I have an idea of where he went." He nodded in the direction of the other two remaining crew members present, Rob and Arabella.

Zarina noted the raised eyebrow Arabella was giving Rob as she glanced between him and the door to the clinic. With that subtle hint, both Zarina and Francis figured Benedict had decided to follow his mentor and Itzal inside.

Perhaps he had something to say to Itzal as well.

But Zarina also noticed a little extra detail that went unnoticed by Francis. Despite the obscured view of the ex-bounty hunter's face she could still make out the tiniest smirk on his lips.

Why he was smiling was anyone's guess.


Itzal looked around the clinic as he stood in the centre of the main foray, examining all the little details he could of the relatively small but extremely functional clinic. It was the only clinic, or medical centre, on the entire island.

However, it was clearly the only one the island needed. Raphael and Benedict did a phenomenal job patching his first mate up, with Raphael confirming it would take no longer than a day for Rob to be fully healed again. Sure, he trusted Rob's word when he said he was ready to go here and now, but it was nice to get clarification from a professional.

Tomorrow they could set off for the Grandline! Where the real adventure awaits!

Itzal sensed Raphael re-entering the room. The older doctor having gone to make some tea for himself, and Itzal.

Wordlessly Raphael handed Itzals cup to him as he finished preparing his own. Itzal thanked him before taking a sip of his drink, waiting for Raphael to take the lead with this conversation.

"I wish to thank you for what you've done this day," Raphael began, his tea in hand, "You have no idea how much this means for the people of Loguetown."

"Ah, it was nothing!" Itzal waved off his appreciation. "I couldn't allow innocent people to get hurt by the likes of those dirty bandits."

A small smile made its way across the older man's face, "That's good to hear, but I didn't ask you here to merely thank you. I wished to speak to you about something of importance."

Itzals brow raised, but Raphael continued. "I just wish to… understand you better. I wish to know more about you, learn of your goals, and perhaps, if what I believe is right about you, ask a favor of you." Raphaels gazed focused on the young pirate, "Can you help with all that, young man?"

Itzal nodded, "I'm sure I can."

"Good, then there is one important question I have to ask." Raphael placed his cup down beside him on an end table. "What is your life's ambition?"

"To achieve the most impossible dream there is, to find the One Piece and become Pirate King." Itzal responded with a single second of hesitation. "That is my dream."

"Do you believe you can achieve it? We both know that is an ambition most of the world would say is impossible."

Itzal smiled softly, "I'm willing to fight, bleed, for my dream. If I have to die to achieve my ambitions, then so be it." His words were soft, rather calm, but the fire in the young captain's eyes, the sharpness, told Raphael that he believed every word he said.

"That kind of fire… I haven't seen that kind of look in a long time." The doctor thought to himself, "He would truly die in the pursuit of his dreams. His ambitions are worth that much to him." He then spoke, "Do ambitions truly mean that much to you?"

"I do!" Itzal responded, he clenched one fist in front of him, "But not just mine! I wish to understand what true ambitions are to people, I wish to learn of peoples dreams and see them strive to achieve it! I want my crew built upon the ambitions of the people who are a part of it!"

If only Itzal knew how much that meant to Raphael.

"Of course, the Captain must have the greatest ambition of all." Raphael laughed, "But to care for the dreams and ambitions of those around you." The older doctor paused, "It's respectable."

Itzal merely laughed joyously, "Yep! I'll do everything I can to help my crew achieve their dreams!"

"And that, my young friend, is what I truly wanted to know." Raphael responded to Itzals declaration of intent, "That is why I asked to speak with you." The doctor moved to stand before the young captain, five feet apart, "I must ask a favor of you."

Itzal calmed, curious as to what kind of favor he was gonna ask of him. "What can I do for you?"

"I wish for you to take my apprentice with you on your journey." Raphael began, already surprising the young pirate with his answer, "I want him to travel the world, experience what it has to offer, and grow as a person. But most of all, I want him to chase his ambition."

That last tid-bit caught his attention, "Ambition?"

Raphael smiled softly, "Yes, Benedict has his own ambition. One that he's had for a long time now," His smile morphed into a frown, "Unfortunately, he never chased that dream because he felt he had obligations here, to me, to the clinic. He couldn't leave when this island was under threat of bandit raids. He felt it was his duty to protect this island."

"As far as I can tell, he did a pretty good job, right?"

"That he did, and has done so since the raids started." Raphael explained, he closed his eyes, seemingly in thought, "He doesn't have to stay here any longer, thanks to you." Raphael nodded in Itzals direction, "What you did today was more than free this island of bandits, you freed Benedict too."

"I'd help any good person find freedom!" Itzal exclaimed, pumping his fists in front of him, "Freedom is the most valuable treasure in the world!"

The old doctor gave a hearty laugh, "You seem like just the ideal man for Benedict to join with. Can he join you?"

"I'd be ha-" Itzal was interrupted by another voice coming from the entrance to the main room.

"That's not for you to decide, old man." Raphael turned to see Benedict standing in the doorway.

Raphael sighed, "How long have you been listening in on us?"

"Nearly since the beginning." Benedict admitted with a shrug, his eyes glanced at Itzal, who wasn't surprised in the slightest at the younger doctor's sudden appearance. "But I suspect you knew I was there."

"Hehehe, yeah." Itzal rubbed the back of his head sheepishly, "I figured you'd join us when you wanted to."

Benedict knew Itzal had haki, so he figured Itzal had sensed his presence. In a way, he was thankful Itzal didn't call him out as it gave him the opportunity to listen in on what his mentor wanted most for him.

The apprentice turned to his mentor, "You shouldn't be making decisions on my behalf, I can decide for myself what I want to do."

Raphael shook his head, "Not without the right push you won't." The mentor's eyes locked with his apprentices, "I know you, Ben, I know what you're like. I know how stubborn you can be."

"Regardless, I am free to make my own bloody choices." Benedict grunted back.

"Exactly, you are free to make your own choices!" Raphael exclaimed, walking closer to his apprentice, "You have an opportunity to chase your own ambition. You're free to leave this island, you won't be abandoning the people of Loguetown, and you certainly won't be abandoning me."

"I can't just up and fucking leave you, old man." Benedict argued back, "I owe you a debt, and I can't leave until I've done that."

Raphael sighed in defeat, he knew Benedict always shut him down when they spoke like this. He didn't speak of his topic often, but it usually ended with his apprentice ending the conversation.

But it seems someone didn't want it to end.

"What's your ambition?" Both mentor and apprentice turned to the young pirate. He stared at the younger doctor with a curious brow raised.

A brief silence engulfed the room. Raphael watched his apprentice closely, waiting to see what he would say, if he said something. For a moment he thought he wouldn't give him an answer.

"I'm searching for a legendary place," Benedict began, "And searching for a mythical book left behind there."

"A legendary island?" Itzal questioned, almost excited by the idea. Raphael watched from the side, remaining silent, not wishing to interrupt this rare moment.

Benedict hummed, "An island that goes by the name Vita. It's said to be a medical miracle, where no disease or illness can exist. That when you stand on the island it can cure you of nearly any illness or sickness, the plants that grow on this island are the ingredients needed to create special medicines that even increase an individual's life span."

Itzal spun on the spot, "That sounds amazing!"

Benedict smiled, actually smiled, as he spoke again, "It is, I've pictured it in my dreams before what the island must look like, what is hidden there." He paused, "It's said it was discovered a hundred years ago, only once, and only mentioned in one historical text, but the island is said to house a tomb. Within the tomb is a single book, claiming to be an encyclopedia of diseases and illnesses that have ever existed, or could exist in the future. The book could lead to the creation of cures to diseases that haven't even arrived yet!" The smile only widened as Benedict spoke, he turned his gaze upwards by the end of it as if imagining what it would be like to find that dream. "Not many people believe the island exists, but I do. I know it's real."

Another rare moment from the young doctor, and quite frankly that pleased the older doctor to no end. To see his apprentice so much more positive than usual was a welcome surprise.

"Then you have to be the one to find it again!" Itzal exclaimed, pulling Ben back down to reality, "That's the dream you have to chase!"

Benedict's smile fell, and off to the side so did Raphaels'.

"I can't," Benedict responded, "I have obligations to tend to." He sighed, "I have a debt to repay."

"A debt?" Itzal questioned once again.

"Yeah, a debt." Benedict confirmed somewhat neutrally. "I owe my mentor a debt for everything he's done for me, and as much as he says it's nothing, it is something to me, I can't just leave it unpaid."

Raphael only shook his head in frustration, "Oh Benedict…" He whispered. He'd always known Benedict felt obligated to stay with him, help him as he had the young man when he was merely a boy.

"Then that's exactly why you should chase your dream!" Itzal responded, interrupting Raphael before he had the chance to try to talk Benedict out of this debt. Itzal taking on the task without realizing it. "Don't you see? That's exactly how you should repay your debts! Achieve your dream!" Itzal smiled wider, "Your dream is based on your lifestyle of being a doctor, why not achieve what no other doctor could, find this mythical place, learn what no other doctor could, and use it to save lives? Wouldn't that be a way to both repay and honor everything Raphael ever did and taught you?"

Itzal's little speech gave Benedict pause, and by the look on his face, Raphael could tell he was processing the young pirates' words. Now was the time to join in.

"Ben," Raphael began softly, drawing his apprentice's attention, "I've watched you grow from a boy to a man, I've taught you everything I can here and yet I still see you strive to improve every day that passes." Raphael smiled warmly, "I've always wanted to see you grow to your true potential, both as a doctor and a person." He gestured to the clinic around him, "This clinic might be your home, but out in the world is where you need to be."

Benedict said nothing, which gave Raphael a chance to push even harder.

"Take this opportunity, Ben. I've always wished I'd traversed the world when I was younger, I've missed my chance but you still can. You can become more than I ever could, and to see you grow further than you already have," Raphael laughed softly, "That is truly what I wish for."

"You'd rather see me chase my own ambitions?" Benedict asked softly, eyes focused on his mentor.

"I would," Raphael confirmed, "I would love nothing more than for you to achieve your dream, Ben. No matter how long it might take, I want to know you achieved it."

"And what about you? Am I just supposed to leave you here?"

Raphael sighed quietly, "I know what you're like, Ben, but I'll be fine." He smiled at his apprentice, "I know I'd see you again after your journey."

"You'd have me go with a pirate?" He questioned.

Itzal laughed to himself but otherwise didn't speak, allowing Raphael to instead.

"He's the perfect man to journey with, a man who also chases his own ambition." Raphael explained, "Always follow those who seek the truth, doubt those who have claimed to have found it."

Benedict grunted at his mentors' words, visibly annoyed by them like he'd heard that line before many times in the past.

Still, his mentor's words gave the younger doctor pause.

It almost seemed as though he would accept it right then and there.

"I'll compromise with you," Benedict began, "If by the time you're leaving tomorrow," he gestured toward Itzal, "I've decided to chase my own ambition, I'll join you on your journey as your ship's doctor." Benedict turned to face Itzal fully, "Would that be alright with you?"

Itzal smiled before he laughed, "That's perfectly fine with me!" Both Itzal and Raphael seemed to exude positive vibes, it seemed as though the mere possibility of Benedict chasing his ambition was enough to improve their mood.

The younger doctor grunted before glancing toward his mentor, "I think we're done with this conversation."

Raphael nodded, "It appears so," He turned to the young pirate, "You and your friends may stay here, in the clinic, for the night."

"Thanks so much!"

"Let us get back to the others then," Raphael gestured toward the way they'd first come through. "We can inform them of the plan for tonight."

With that, Itzal, and Raphael moved to leave the clinic and rejoin the others outside.

Benedict, however, lagged behind for a moment, watching as the two left. Once they were out of sight, he took a glance around the interior of the clinic before turning toward the entrance of the clinic, and left himself.

The trio would reunite with the others outside the clinic and announce the news that they would be staying the night at the clinic, much to the relief of Zarina, Francis, and Arabella who were clearly all looking forward to a nice bed for the night.

The invitation extended to Crow and Raven but they declined in favor of dealing with the bandits.

So, the groups split up, before individual members began to break off for the night.

It wouldn't be long before the Sky Pirates set sail for the Grandline!


Zarina ran a hand through her slightly hair, tidying it as she went. Tying it back into her usual high ponytail style. The scholar had just finished a rather brief wash in the clinic's bathroom room.

She was certainly glad for a nice shower after yesterday's antics.

Normally Zarina would be one to shower before bed but she was just happy to sleep the rest of the day away. Despite being uninjured, and having rested, her muscles still ached from the physical exertion she wasn't used to. Once Raphael offered to house Itzal and his friends for the night, she took the opportunity to sleep. She'd been the first one to bed, but not by much as Arabella and Francis followed her lead, all heading to their respective rooms.

Benedict had apparently turned in not long after them, but she wasn't entirely sure he went off to solely sleep. The scholar had noted Benedict's stoic silence when they'd all reappeared after their private discussion; she could tell he was deep within his own thoughts and likely would be for some time. Whatever they discussed clearly had some effect over the younger doctor.

Itzal, and Rob had stayed up with Raphael, for how much longer she couldn't say, whilst Crow and Raven had decided to gather all the bandits together in town, cuff them properly, especially Cecil with a set of sea prism stone, and cage them all. They had holding cells, but some metal workers made custom cages to hold all the bandits comfortably.

The pair of fighters agreed to meet up with them again tomorrow when they left. It was clear to everyone that they had more to say to them, with Zarina thinking Crow specifically wanted to speak with Itzal.

She could easily hazard a guess as to why he wished to speak to the pirate, but in the long run it didn't really matter. She didn't believe anything bad would come of it.

The scholar had already dressed herself, given she had no new clothes; it was what she had been wearing yesterday, before she quietly moved toward the entrance of the clinic.

She had seemingly woken up before the others, as she hadn't seen or heard anyone up yet. She knew Arabella would still be asleep. That girl wasn't a morning person. Raphael and Benedict weren't going about the clinic so they'd still be in their respective rooms. She didn't hear Itzal up, so assumed he was asleep. The scholar hadn't heard an explosion yet so Rob wasn't causing trouble, which was good. And she couldn't say anything for Francis.

Regardless, she hadn't seen anyone yet so she wasn't certain of any of that.

Zarina exited the clinic, walking through the doorway as an early morning breeze passed over her. The contrast of the cool morning air, and the warmth of the clinic was a pleasant tingle across the skin.

The fresh air was intoxicating in its own way. It helped clear her mind, and energize her body.

The peaceful silence of the morning was always something Zarina had been fond of, she was usually an early riser back on her home island, never usually getting the chance to sleep in.

Today, even if she had the opportunity to, she had decided to wake early. Her reason? Honestly, she didn't really have one beyond wishing to be prepared the day ahead of her.

Today was the day Itzal planned to set sail for the Grandline with Rob and Arabella. Zarina smiled softly to herself at picturing the adventures they'd go on.

And she imagined herself along with them.

"Beli for your thoughts?" A voice called out to her from her side. She turned to see the ex-bounty hunter, Rob, approaching, and for a moment she was surprised to see him up so early.

"You're up earlier than expected." Her words only got a shrug from the bounty hunter, so she continued, "Why are you up so early?"

"I'm an early riser by habit, I get up for my early morning swim." Rob explained, "But seeing as I'm not currently by a large water source, I couldn't. Still didn't stop me waking up early though."

"Hmm, you do enjoy swimming." Zarina conceded, to which Rob nodded in agreement, "If you couldn't swim, what else did you do?"

"Just kept watch out here," Rob gestured to the surrounding area, "I sat myself up in a nice tree and watched the morning sunrise."

Zarina hummed, that did sound like quite the nice view in all honesty.

"After that," Rob continued, "I spoke with Francis for a quick minute, he said he was heading into town for a bit."

"Anyone else up?" She queried.

Nope," Rob answered, "I was the first one up, followed by Francis. Nobody else has even left their room yet."

Again, Zarina hummed at his response. She figured that he was using observation haki to sense the area around him. He could likely tell where the others were within the clinic. She had to admit, abilities like his were pretty handy sometimes.

"So," Rob began once again, "Are you gonna tell me what's got you in such a positive mood this morning?" A smirk made its way across his face as he spoke.

Zarina smiled softly as well, "Just merely enjoying the calm before the storm."

Rob chuckled lowly, "Oh, how cryptic of you~"

Zarina rolled her eyes, but kept her smile all the same. "Are you ready to set sail?" The scholar took the opportunity to change the topic of conversation.

"As ready as I'll ever be." Rob admitted honestly, "This won't be my first time on the Grandline."

Zarina quirked a brow, "You've traveled along the Grandline before?"

"I have." Rob nodded once toward her, "More than once actually."

"What's it like?" She asked, turning to fully face the ex-bounty hunter. "Is the Grandline as adventurous as some say it is?"

The man shrugged once, "I can't really say. I never got the chance to experience much whilst I was on the move."

"Weren't interested in that type of thing?" She guessed.

"Never got the chance to." Rob responded, "Let's just say I didn't get to see much, I was always… preoccupied with other things."

His answer made the scholar even more curious. His answer was vague, but it alluded to something much more. Rob wasn't one to be held back, so whatever occupied his time was important in some way. Normally she'd be one to wish to uncover more on such curiosities, but given it was related to Rob's past she left it at that.

To be honest, Rob was a rather mysterious guy at times. Back on Tear Island he'd just waltz into a slavers camp with an enormous injury across his chest, and the guy didn't say a word about it or who gave it to him. She knew the person had to be strong to do something like that to Rob, but the ex-bounty hunter himself didn't make a big deal of it. In-fact, he made it out to be not as bad as it was.

Idiot.

Regardless, Zarina respected his privacy even if she wanted to know a bit more.

"And what about you?" Rob asked. "You ready for the day ahead of you?"

An innocent question, but it became far less innocent when the question was accompanied by a smug, almost knowing, smirk. Her eyes almost instinctively narrowed at him.

"Just like you, I'm as ready as I can be." Zarina responded, "I just have one last thing I must do before you, Arabella, and Itzal depart from the docks."

His smirk only grew wider, "I look forward to it."

Zarina had to admit she didn't like that smirk.


Francis sat on a fountain's lip, in the centre of the plaza in the main court of town. The early morning was far more peaceful than Francis would have thought, but given what the people had gone through yesterday he could understand why. He'd heard that the townsfolk celebrated the bandits' defeat, and once they found out their leader was also taken down, people were ecstatic.

Now though? People properly needed to sleep off their hangovers.

It wasn't a huge party, more a bunch of families and friends enjoying the good news.

Goes to show the people of Loguetown could party hard in the privacy of their own homes.

Regardless, the early morning was far more peaceful because of it.

Beautiful silence, not a soul wandering the streets, a cool sea breeze washed across the plaza from the docks. It all made for a scenic view.

The young ex-marine had spent the last hour or so thinking about recent times, from since he left the marine base with Itzal to now, after helping protect an island from bandits.

Francis had to admit, it was good to know nearly all of the bandits were captured like this, save for this Wilt woman. He felt proud that he could help protect this island in some way, even if he wished he could have done more. Nonetheless, he wanted to aid in protecting the island and its people, and he did just that.

That was one aspect of the marines that he actually enjoyed, one he could respect. The defense of the people. Of the innocent. To fight for those who often couldn't fight for themselves.

Unfortunately, that aspect wasn't enough to endear him to the marines so badly that he stayed a part of their ranks. The life of a marine just wasn't for him, he refused to just throw his life away for a mere cause. He'd give his life to protect others, whether he knew them or not, but he wouldn't die merely for someone else's ideal.

He finds his own cause to fight for.

Call it what you like, as the navigator was certain some would be insulting about it, but that's what Francis believed.

If others felt differently, viewed differently than he did, then he would encourage them to do so. Francis was someone who thought people should decide for themselves what they believed in, what they fought for, what they thought was right.

And that kind of thinking could go in an infinite amount of directions.

From Pirates to Marines, criminals to lawmen, civilians to royalty.

And that's why Francis couldn't stand being a marine anymore. He felt as though he was forced to live that way, unable to decide his own fate, at the mercy of his superiors who would tell him what he must do.

That scared the navigator the most.

Which has led him to where he is today.

A man free to choose his own path.

A voice called out to him at that moment, "You seem to radiate a positive energy today."

Francis turned to face the stoic swordswoman, the wanna-be-marine, Raven. She watched him with a keen eye, mostly observing his appearance and choice of clothing.

The navigator gave a small smile, nodding to her, "I am in a good mood today. I'm surprised you could tell, I'm not exactly bubbling with external excitement."

The swordswoman hummed, "Merely an observation of subtle tells." She began, "You seem to be standing taller than before, more confident, less unsure."

"Impressive," Francis praised, clearly she was someone who was aware of those around her. "Why bring it up though? Curious as to why I'm standing taller than usual?"

Raven shook her head as she closed her eyes, "No, the reason for your good mood is for you and you alone. Only if you desire to share it with others should it be known."

"You're quite reserved, aren't you?" The navigator quired, glancing toward her as if to observe her.

"I'm not a social creature by nature." She admitted.

"Then why strike up conversation at all?" That's a reasonable question, one which gave Raven pause. "Does it have something to do about earlier, when you bit back what you wanted to say to me when we were fighting off bandits?"

"You noticed that, did you?" Raven scoffed, "It appears I'm not the only observant one." The navigator smirked but said nothing, allowing her to continue, "But yes, that is the reason I wanted to speak with you."

"Then by all means," Francis gestured for the swordswoman to continue.

"I wished to ask you a question," She began, eyes glancing toward his outfit, "That outfit is reminiscent of a marine uniform. Are you a marine by any chance?"

"I was." Francis confessed honestly, "But not any more."

His answer piqued her interest, "So you were a marine. Why aren't you one now." The sword woman's grip tightened on the hilt of her blade, as if expecting some sort of darker answer. The idea that she might attack him if he answered poorly was worrying, but the navigator remembered Rob stood not far from him and Raven, if something went aerie then he was certain the ex-bounty hunter would come to his aid. Even if he was injured.

So, with that thought in mind, he answered honestly, "I left because I lost faith in the marines."

"Lost faith?" Her grip loosened, but her hand remained resting on her blades hilt. "What could you possibly mean by that?"

"Simply put, I don't believe the marines serve the same purpose I believe in anymore." Francis clarified, he glanced back to the empty space around them, "I had been forced to join the marines when I was young, I wasn't given a choice, and for a long time I lived with that. I thought that I could grow in-tune with the marines and their ways." He sighed, "But I could never truly find peace when I was with them. There is always something darker going on behind the scenes." At his words, Raven scowled, clearly annoyed by his disrespect toward the organization she wishes to join, "They're not all bad, not by a long shot." He attempted, and succeeded, to ease her annoyance, "But I've been privy to information on operations, and I didn't always agree with what was being done."

"So you're a deserter." Raven stated firmly.

Francis winced slightly, in a way it was true. He was a deserter, he just left without a word to anyone. There was little doubt he'd be seen as a deserter to most, hell, some might call him a traitor for jumping onto a pirates ship at the first opportunity.

"I suppose I am." Francis replied, "I left because I lost faith in what the marines stood for, so when an opportunity presented itself, I took it and left."

"But what do you have now?" Raven countered, "You left the marines because they didn't align with your beliefs but what now? Without others to help, it's hard to follow, and enact, one's beliefs."

The swordswoman paused, allowing Francis to process her words. She could discern from his expression, his vacant look, that he was thinking on her words. She continued.

"Did you have a plan for when you left?"

"When I first left, I had no big goals in mind, no plans for the future, I just wanted my freedom." Francis explained before he smiled, "But recently I've been giving my future some more thought, and I think I've finally figured out what I truly want."

"Have you figured out what you truly wish to do? Your own goal?"

Francis chuckled softly, "I have. And I've found the exact people I want to share it with."

Raven stared at the ex-marine, silently observing him for a moment. Honestly, her gaze was quite… unsettling to the young navigator but he didn't comment on it.

Eventually she turned away from him, "If that is the case then I wish you the best."

Her words sounded genuine but Francis could tell something was amiss with her. Perhaps she had figured out what Francis planned to do precisely and she had a problem with it? Possible.

But then Francis recalled that Raven and Crow both wished to one day join the marines.

Perhaps she wished she could reach her own goal like he aimed to? The ex-marine paused, thinking a bit on how he could help her.

And that's when an idea popped into mind.

"Do you have paper, cloth, or a napkin on you?" Francis asked, the wanna-be marine turned to the navigator with a confused expression.

"I have a handkerchief," Raven answered as she drew forth said item, "Why?"

"Give it here." Francis stretched out one hand whilst the other hand made its way into his inner jacket pocket. As she handed him the handkerchief, he pulled out a pen and began to scribble on it, wordlessly.

"What are you doing?" The swordswoman asked.

Francis finished his quick scribbling of information, before picking up the handkerchief over to Raven.

"They are coordinates to a frequented marine trade route." Francis explained, surprising the swordswoman, "It's a route the marines use to move either prisoners from the blue sea or resources if required." He pointed to one of the names written on the piece of cloth, "Bring the bandits with you and trade them over to the marines, that will help your case. Speak with someone by the name Fox, he's a commander in the marines. He'll be your best bet if you truly wish to get into the marines. He'll look after you."

Raven remained silent, gazing at the names, numbers, and scribbles on the cloth.

"You'd help someone join the organisation you chose to leave?" Raven quired, finally glancing back at the ex-marine.

He nodded, "I would. Although I might not believe in the marines myself, I can respect anyone else who does. If they find hope or purpose within their ranks, then I would encourage them to follow their beliefs." Francis explained.

The swordswoman turned back to the information on the handkerchief, examining it all once again.

Francis didn't say a word, allowing her the time to process the information, take it all in.

A solid minute passed and neither one had broken the silence. If Francis was being honest, it got a bit awkward but he ignored it as best he could.

It was then that Raven stood up and turned to face the navigator.

She looked him straight in the eye, and to his surprise, bowed toward him.

"Thank you for this," She began, "This will be of great help to Crow and I."

Francis blinked at her sudden, and frankly unnecessary show of gratitude. "A simple thank you would have suffice." He thought before speaking, "I wish you luck in joining the marines. Maybe one day I'll see you as a Commander in the future."

Raven stood straight from her bow, an uncharacteristic smirk crossed her face, "Crow and I plan to aim much higher than that."

The confidence in her words made the young navigator smile, "I'll be sure to congratulate you one day for your achievement."

Raven hummed her response of acknowledgment, "I must go, I need to speak with Crow immediately about this." She lifted the handkerchief to emphasize what she meant, "We have plans to make with this information."

"Then by all means," Francis nodded to her with a small smile, "I hope you and Crow are ready for it."

Raven scoffed, "We won't allow ourselves to fail." With that, her more stoic, unfriendly demeanor was back, but Raven inclined her head toward him before turning to leave. "Good luck yourself, Rose."

And like that, she left, off to find and speak with Crow.

Once again, Francis found himself alone in the peaceful plaza of the town.

And the navigator thought he would be for the next while.

But that wasn't to be.

"You've been busy from what I hear," A voice spoke out from his offside. Francis turned to the source of this newcomer and found it to be the old man he and Itzal had encountered whilst exploring the island the other day. Tobuscus, the antiques store owner.

Francis took an educated guess that Tobuscus was referring to the bandit ordeal from yesterday. He must have heard from others in town that the bandits had been dealt with, maybe Crow had explained it after returning with all the bandits in tow?

"You could say that," Francis admitted, turning away from Tobuscus and he took a seat next to him, "I didn't do the legwork though."

Tobuscus snorted a laugh, "Nonsense, you did more than some on this very island would dare to do!" he exclaimed, tapping the young navigator across his shoulder, "Loguetown was only protected by three individuals, but today this town had a force protecting it!"

A small smile made its way across Francis' face at hearing the old man's words. Describing Itzal and his comrades, including himself, as a force was an amusing thought. He had to concede the point that they not only got on well together but also worked and fought well together. Each of them had a part to play in some form, and although Francis wasn't fighting any commanders, he did his part in taking on the masses, allowing the others to focus on the bigger targets.

He was a part of it regardless.

"I suppose you're correct," Francis inclined his head in the shopkeepers' direction, "What brings you out so early in the morning?"

"Oh, I had to pick up a little something." The shopkeep gestured to the bag he was carrying. "It's an important gift for that young pirate you were with."

For a moment, Francis wondered what he might have gotten him before he realized what it must be. There had only been one conversation between the three of them that would warrant Tobuscus going on to buy something, as he'd offered to give both he and Itzal some of his wares in his store.

"Is that a-"

"It is," Tobuscus interrupted, shaking the bag ever so slightly, smiling at it as if proud of the contents inside it. "I figure I'd help that young Itzal fellow out with something like this."

Francis bowed his head, "I'm sure he'll be thankful for your gift." He knew Itzal would be grateful, it was an important piece for any pirate after all. And for it to be gifted to him like this? Yeah, Itzal would be delighted by it.

"I'm certain he won't forget this kindness." Francis stated confidently. He knew the young pirate, he knew Itzal wouldn't forget those who are kind to him. He didn't seem to be the type to not repay kindness with kindness.

Tobuscus hummed in agreement, "Francis," he began, the navigator turning to him, "could I ask a favor of you?"

"Of course," Francis started, his expression turning to confusion, "But what could I help you with?"

"It's simple," The old man smiled, "I'll need someone to take everything I'm giving both you and that young pirate to his ship. The books, scrolls, some old maps, and so forth." Tobuscues reached into his pocket and pulled out a small device Francis was very familiar with. "And a little something to help him on his way across the Grandline." A log-pose. A navigational instrument used to navigate the seas and islands across the Grandline, without it many have failed to survive on such a dangerous sea.

Tobuscus leaned his hand across for Francis to take the log-pose, which he did. Francis examined the piece for a moment, contemplating the object for a few quick moments.

"That young pirate is lucky to have you on his crew."

"What makes you say I'm a part of his crew at all?" Francis asked, his eyes remaining fixated on the log-pose in front of him, twisting it in his hands trying to examine every inch of it.

Tobuscus smirked, "You two seem like you work well together, together you both took on a bandit raid and won. Wouldn't you agree?"

Francis smiled softly, "I suppose I do." The ex-marine extended his to give back the log-pose but was stopped when the old man held up his hand.

"Keep it, we both know who needs it the more." Tobuscus explained before standing. "So, will you help me?"

Francis glanced at the log-pose once more, fist tightening on the instrument, before turning back to the old man.

"Let's get to work." Francis stood from his position ready to follow Tobuscus back to his shop. The young navigator picked up the bags that the old shop keeper had been carrying so he wouldn't have to.

However, Francis paused, brows furrowing. He turned his head toward the sky with a curious expression. Tobuscus looked toward the young navigator, confused.

"Something wrong, young man?" He asked, tilting his head ever so slightly.

"There's a storm coming." He stated flatly. "It'll be here in a couple of hours."

Now Tobuscus was even more confused as he glanced to the sky himself. He saw no signs of a storm, no dark ominous clouds, or high winds. In-fact, it looked like a perfectly sunny day.

"It doesn't seem like there will be a storm anytime soon, the current weather says otherwise. How do you know there will be a storm at all?" Tobuscus asked.

"I can just tell." Francis asked honestly, "I've always been able to predict the weather since I was young."

"Have you been wrong before?"

"I haven't."

Tobuscus hummed at his response, not entirely confident in his prediction but chose not to voice that thought. If the young man believed there was a storm coming, then by all means allow him to prepare for one. Preparation for the worst would never lead you astray.

"It's gonna be a large one, more like a hurricane. High winds, intense rainfall, and unstable waves." Francis continued, eyes now leaving the sky. "If Itzal doesn't leave Loguetown soon then he'll be stuck here for at least a month."

That gave Tobuscus pause. That was oddly specific but it was also strangely accurate. Loguetown would occasionally, and randomly, have storms that could last up to a month. But they were random and sporadic at best. There was no way to predict when one of these storms would hit, but the locals were always prepared for a short-notice warning.

But for Francis to specify the details of this supposed hurricane, and be accurate as to the intensity that Loguetown was used to, was… intriguing. It at least leant some credence to the young man's ability to predict the weather.

Tobuscus coughed into his fist, drawing the attention of Francis, "Regardless, we best prepare for Itzals departure and gather everything I wish to gift to him."

Francis nodded in agreement, so with that, Tobuscus took the lead of the pair, leading them back to his antiques store. Francis paused for a moment, glancing back to the log-pose one last time. He couldn't help but smile before turning to follow the old man back to his store.

Soon he'd reunite with Itzal at the docks.


"So, today is the day we set sail for the Grandline!" Itzal declared with a wide grin, Sherlock chirping happily next to him. His excitement spread to the others around him as Rob, Arabella, Zarina, and Raphael all smiled along with him. Itzal was an adventurer through and through.

Itzal, with Sherlock on his shoulder, Rob, and Arabella were all ready to set sail again, seeing as Arabella had decided to get them into the Grandline, she'd be helming the journey for them. The day had taken a sudden but mild shift in the weather, the day became colder, the wind had picked up, and the sky had darkened with light grey clouds. Still a pleasant enough day in all honesty.

The group had gathered at the front of the clinic, ready to finally head back to the main town, before making their way to the dock, their ship, before everyone would begin saying their goodbyes.

Itzal did say he had somewhere to stop by first once they reached the docks, before they departed Loguetown, but didn't elaborate on anything further.

Nobody questioned him further although Zarina did admit to herself that she was curious as to where he was going to go. She did hold her tongue though.

"Is everyone ready?" Itzal asked, looking between the assembled motley crew before him.

"Ready when you are, Itzal." Rob responded. Nodding to his captain. His wounds had healed well, the work done by Raphael and Benedict was truly miraculous. The first mate would be ready, and at full strength, for whatever they came across next.

"Let's get back to the sea!" Arabella exclaimed with a fist pump, "I'll get you lot to the Grandline no matter what."

Everyone smiled to some degree at the level of energy everyone seemed to have. People were hyped and ready to take on the final segment of the blue sea, reverse mountain, and whatever dangers lurked just beyond.

Itzal turned to Raphael. "Thanks for everything you and Benedict for us!"

The old doctor raised his hand, "Think nothing of it, Itzal, we were merely repaying you and your friends' work in dealing with a long standing problem that plagued Loguetown." He explained, "Housing you for a night was hardly enough."

"Helped my first mate out too!" The man in question waved in the older doctor's direction, a pleasant smirk across his face.

"It's what we do here." He deflected, "We wouldn't be doctors if we turned away an injured man like that."

"That's quite noble of you," Zarina chimed in, nodding her own thanks to the older doctor.

"Thank you kindly." Raphael responded with a smile. "I wish you all luck on your adventures on the Grandline, I'm sure you lot will be able to handle whatever that sea has to throw at you."

Itzal chuckled, "Yep! We'll take on anyone who wants to try their hand with us!" The others couldn't help but smile at the young pirate's confidence. It was confidence well earned. With the strength Itzal, Rob, and Arabella possessed, they had a solid offense for anyone or anything that came their way on that wild sea.

Raphael was about to speak when the clicking of the door alerted them to the final unaccounted for member of the group, excluding Francis who everyone knew was in town somewhere.

Benedict exited the clinic, and his appearance brought a smile to Raphael's face and a grin to Itzals'.

He wore his usual attire, but was accompanied by two duffel bags strapped across his back. And those two bags only meant one thing.

The younger doctor's eyes found both Itzal and his mentor. Wordlessly, Benedict walked over to Raphael first.

"Benedict," His mentor spoke in greeting.

"Old man," Benedict greeted back, "Seems like you almost got what you wanted for me, right?"

His mentor smiled fondly at his apprentice, "It seems like I have, yes."

Benedict grunted, "Before I commit to all this, I have one final request to make."

Raphael's face scrunched up for a moment in confusion, "What is your request?"

"You have to promise one thing, old man," Benedict pointed toward his mentor, "You have to promise me that no matter how long it takes, you will be waiting here for me to one day return here. You have to promise that you'll still be here at the end of all this to hear of everything I do out there, in the wild world. Only then, once you promise me that, will I commit to my ambition. Can you do that for me, old man?"

Raphael chuckled softly, smiling wider than he had since the others had met him. He nodded to his apprentice, "I can do that for you. I can promise you I'll be here waiting for you to return, no matter how long it takes."

Without another word they both gave each other one last hug. Everyone present smiled at the scene between the two doctors and their little moment. Once they broke apart Benedict turned toward Itzal and made his way over to him.

"So, you get a doctor on ship," Benedict began, "I'll be staying with you for the duration of your journey across the seas, you okay with that?"

Itzal laughed, "That's perfect with me!"

Benedicted nodded in approval, "Itzal, I'll make you a promise here and now if you do the same." At that, he gained the captain's full attention, "As long as you promise me that you'll value my dream throughout this whole adventure, I promise you that as long as I'm your ship's doctor, I won't allow anyone on your crew to die. Can you promise me that?"

Itzal smirked, "I promise to see you achieve your dream and make it back home no matter how long it takes."

A small, almost faint, smile made its way across the young doctors face, "Then you have my word no one on your crew will die as long as I serve on your ship."

"Glad to have you, Benedict!" Itzal exclaimed, stretching out his hand for the young doctor to shake it. A moment later, he did.

A new crewmate had joined the young pirate.

A promise had been made between them.

One they both planned to keep.

With promises made, a new crewmate in tow, everyone gathered moved onward toward the docks, heading for the young pirate captain's ship, with Itzal leading the way.

It wouldn't be long before they set sail for the Grandline!


It didn't take long for them to reach the docks, not with how everyone seemed to be in a good mood. Itzal and Arabella had chatted the whole way through the forest and town, with Raphael joining in every so often. Rob, Benedict, and Zarina had simply chosen to remain quiet and enjoy the positive vibes everyone had.

Zarina herself was quite happy where she found herself at the moment, surrounded by such good people, good friends, enjoying life and the hype that came with it.

The scholar smiled softly, glancing between everyone as they finally came to a stop a mere twenty feet away from the Sky Pirates ship, the Daystrider.

Itzal turned to the group, everyone's attention focused on the young captain, awaiting what he had to say.

"So here's the plan!" Itzal began with a grin, "Rob can prepare the ship for us to depart, whilst Benedict can settle into the ship's med-bay." He gestured toward their newest member, "You have some gear with you, don't you?"

Benedict nodded wordlessly at the question, confirming Itzal's words.

"You can store whatever you brought whilst Rob sets everything else up!" The two members nodded in understanding of their duty. Itzal didn't give any orders to Arabella or Zarina seeing as neither were official members of the crew, with Arabella only sticking with them for a short while into the Grandline before she declared she would strike out on her own again.

Zarina never said she was even going with them in the first place. As far as everyone knew, this would be when they parted ways. That thought alone would certainly sadden a few people.

"I've got to check in with a shopkeeper in town before we go!" Itzal continued, "I promised to collect some things off him before I leave Loguetown, once I've got everything we can set off!"

"No need to do that, Itzal." A familiar voice called out, drawing everyone's attention toward a certain navigator who was making their way over to the group.

Itzal smiled at seeing Francis once again, but he noted Francis had two bags and a parcel with him. The others noticed too it seemed as everyone's eyes were drawn to the hefty bags, and the delicately wrapped parcel.

"I assume you were going to run off to meet with Tobuscus once more before you leave, right?" Francis asked as he fully joined the group.

"Yep! We promised we'd go collect some of his antiques to bring with us." Itzal answered.

"Well, I already beat you to it, Itzal." Francis swung one of the bags he'd been carrying down to the ground, opened the top and showed its contents to everyone present.

Books, scrolls, little antique pirate trinkets, the bag held a bit of everything. Every piece was something from Tobuscus' shop, every type of good found there, and they were all now owned by Itzal.

Not that everyone saw value in any of it.

"Isn't that… nice of him." Arabella said, uncertainty creeping into her voice.

"It's just a load of fucking junk." Benedict declared quite bluntly. Rob merely laughed silently to himself at hearing both of his comrades reactions. He, himself, didn't voice his opinion.

"I have to disagree, I'm sure they hold some sort of value possibly in the form of what is written in the books or scrolls." Zarina argued, to which Itzal and Francis also vocally agreed with the scholar. The three of them finding value in all kinds of books and scrolls.

Benedict shrugged, "If that's what you believe then so be it." With that, Benedict practically left the conversation, turning away from the others as if waiting for them to finish this discussion.

"Why do you have all this?" Itzal asked Francis, wondering why he gathered everything for him.

"I met Tobuscus early this morning, we got to talking and he decided that I would be the one to gather everything for you so you can depart immediately." Francis explained, "Tobuscus didn't want you to waste time coming back to him when I could bring it to you on his behalf."

"It wouldn't have been a waste of time though." Itzal would have gladly gone to see Tobuscus again, and not just because he had to gather Tobuscus' gifts but because he would have also gotten to explore that store a bit more. That little shop could have held some real treasures in there!

"I know, I agree, but Tobuscus didn't want to delay you with an intense storm approaching." Francis explained. The others raised a brow at the mention of a storm, with Zarina and Arabella glancing toward the sky, searching for signs of said storm.

"A storm?" Zarina questioned out loud.

"Ay, a storm," Francis confirmed, "If you don't leave soon, before the storm hits, you'll be trapped here for a months time." He turned to Itzal, "The Grandline awaits, let's not have a storm block the path."

Itzal nodded, deciding not to question the navigator on how he knew a storm was coming. He would trust his skills and abilities when it came to the weather, if that was an area of his expertise then Itzal would follow his advice.

They wouldn't spend much longer before pushing off, but they had some time left. Besides, Itzal wanted to see if Crow and Raven would show up again to say their goodbyes. He wanted to wish them luck on their own journey!

"What's in the other bag?" Itzal asked, changing the topic of discussion, brow raised as he eyed the second pack with interest. The wrapped fabric was also something that kept calling out to him but he held his tongue on that for now.

Francis shook the bag on his shoulder but didn't move to show anyone what was inside it, "Just a bunch of maps, navigational supplies, and equipment." The ex-marine revealed.

"Where did you get all that?" Zarina asked.

Francis gave a single chuckle, "Tobuscus got everything together for the journey ahead of us."

That gave the others pause.

Itzal spoke first, "So, does that mean…" Excitement slowly building in his voice as the young pirate spoke each word, already seeing where this was going. And, needlessly to say, Itzal was thrilled! The others pieced it together just as quickly, even if one person merely smirked in a sort of knowing manner.

Francis smiled before moving to stand directly in front of Itzal. "Itzal, I'd like to ask something of you." The ex-marine began, "Please allow me to join your crew as your ship's navigator."

His words drew smiles out of a few of them, namely Itzal, Zarina, Raphael, and Arabella, whilst Rob and Benedict smirk softly off to the side.

"I've been trained as a navigator since I was young, I've got natural talent when it comes to navigating the oceans, and I have a special… gift when it comes to the weather," The young navigator continued, "If you'll allow it, I'll become your navigator."

He paused, awaiting Itzals inevitable, and quite obvious answer.

Itzals smile turned to a wide, happy grin, "I wouldn't have any other navigator besides you, if I'm gonna be Pirate King I need to have the best crew I can!"

His words got various smiles, smirks, and grins from the others in the group.

"I won't fail," Francis said with a joyous smile, "Captain." The ex-marine gave his new captain a quick salute of respect. It was official now.

The Sky Pirates just got their navigator!

"Alright, we need to get onboard and set sail before the storm hits!" Itzal announced, "Let's get moving!" His smile seemed to motivate the others as they began to move about, with Rob immediately heading for the gangplank that connected to their ship.

Arabella and Francis were close behind, with Benedict lagging behind for a moment.

The young doctor turned to his mentor one last time, "I'll keep my promise as long as you keep yours, old man."

His mentor nodded with a soft smile, "I'll see you again someday, Benedict."

Itzal and Zarina smiled at the display, watching as the young doctor turned toward Itzals ship. With that, the two would part ways here, promising one day to see one another again with stories to tell.

The older doctor turned to the young captain of the crew, "Watch out for him for me, will you?"

"I won't let anything happen to my crew!" Itzal promised. His response earned a Thank you from the old man followed by a Good luck to you, young man.

"Oi, Itzal!" A distant voice called out, drawing everyone's attention. Itzal, Zarina, and Raphael on the docks, and Rob, Arabella, Francis, and Benedict on deck, some of them sitting and leaning on the railing of the ship as they watched two figures approaching in a sprint.

Two familiar faces.

Crow and Raven.

"Glad to see we made it before you left." Crow said, waving at the young captain as they reached the group, with Raven standing just behind him to his right. "We wanted to see you off."

"You wanted to see them off." Raven corrected from behind to which her male comrade merely rolled his eyes.

"Anyway; it wouldn't have been right to not see you off after everything that has happened." Crow continued, "Out of respect if nothing else."

"...respect a pirate." Raven muttered just loud enough for Crow to hear her. Her male comrade only smirked to himself in response.

"I'm glad you made it!" Itzal took a single step closer, "I wanted to wish you luck on your journey through the marines and its ranks!"

"Thank you kindly, Itzal." Crow nodded his appreciation, "We'll likely get the chance to join up with them soon thanks to a certain someone." Crows, and Ravens, eyes briefly flashed to Francis on the deck, who gave a small salute in return, before glancing back to Itzal.

That told the young captain everything he needed to know.

"Maybe one day we'll meet again on the Grandline!" Itzal chuckled at the thought, and the chaos that would surely ensue. A pirate and a marine meeting.

"We might not meet as allies." Crow joked, "Think you can handle that?"

"I'm gonna be Pirate King!" Itzal countered with a massive grin, fiery determination burning in his eyes, "You'll need to be the Fleet Admiral if you wanna stand a chance against the King!"

Crows grin grew to match the young pirate captains, "I was aiming for nothing short of Fleet Admiral." His eyes narrowed, but remained amused, "We'll see what happens then, yeah?"

"You're on!" Itzal declared, holding out his hand as if to make a deal with someone. Crow grabbed the hand, both parties giving the other a firm squeeze.

A rivalry was born between a pirate and marine.

Everyone around them watched the scene with varying levels of amusement, with Arabella giggling at the scene, Zarina and Raphael smiling softly at the new found rivalry, Francis smiling at Raven's silent scoff behind her partner, and Rob and Benedict remaining nearly neutral throughout the whole spiel.

One the moment had passed, both parties took a step back with Itzal falling in line with Zarina and Crow with Raven.

"Good luck on the seas, my friend." Crow said before giving the captain a small salute.

Itzal nodded back in acknowledgement before turning to Zarina.

"So, this is it, time to go." Itzal said, smiling softly at the scholar.

Zarina hummed in agreement, "So it seems," She agreed, "But before you board your ship, I have something I wish to ask of you." The young pirate captain remained silent, allowing her to continue on. "Since the beginning of our journey together, I've been wondering what my future has in store for me."

Itzal said nothing, allowing her to speak.

"At first I thought I wouldn't make it on my own, but after everything we've been through, I have more faith in my ability to survive, to make it on my own." She smiled softly at the young captain, "But I've also come to realize that is not the kind of life I wish to live, I don't want to simply survive alone in the world." Her eyes flicked from Itzal to his ship, and the people on her deck, "If you'll allow it, Itzal, I'd like to come with you on your journey."

Everyone smiled at the young woman's words, with Rob smirking at the scholar. Clearly, he wasn't surprised by Zarina's request.

Itzal, however, was ecstatic!

"Of course you can come with us!" Itzal exclaimed, his smile threatening to split his face in two with how wide it was. "The crew wouldn't feel the same without you!"

Zarina giggled, "So, am I officially one of your crew?"

"Zarina, you always have been!" Itzal counter with a laugh.

His words brought a wave of warmth to heart. To know he saw her as a part of his crew no matter what was touching.

"So, permission to come aboard your ship?" Zarina asked with a small, teasing smile.

"Permission granted, Zarina!"

"Thank you, Captain," Zarina bowed slightly as a sign of respect, and for the first time referred to Itzal as Captain, Her Captain. "Oh, and Itzal," She smiled at the young pirate, "Please, call me Ziri."

With that, Zarina made her way onboard the ship, joining the others on deck, with Itzal jumping aboard at the same time. Everyone present could practically feel the positive vibes coming off one another.

"Time to set sail!" Itzal declared, throwing his arms into the air. The others began moving to prepare the ship with Rob setting the sails, Arabella taking the helm, Francis and Benedict both vanished below deck to deposit all the supplies and equipment they had, both navigational and medical, and finally, Itzal and Zarina stood near the bow of the ship, awaiting the moment the ship pushes off and back out to sea.

They didn't have to wait long as the sail unfurled, the wind catching the fabric, and suddenly jolting the ship off the dock. The Sky Pirates had officially cast off from Loguetown, with their sights set on Reverse Mountain.

Itzal jumped up to the figurehead, throwing his arm forward.

"To the Grandline!"


Crow, Raven, and Raphael all watched Itzals ship slowly make its way into the distant horizon.

Crow turned to Raven, "We'll wait before setting off ourselves." He told his partner, "We'll prepare a ship, and the prisoners for transport before making our way toward those coordinates Francis provided."

"Understood." Raven responded, nodding at her comrade. Crow moved toward Raphael who remained smiling, watching the ship in the distance.

"We'll be off now then, Raphael," he told the old doctor who hummed in acknowledgement. Crow turned back one last time to stare at the ship with a smile of his own. "I truly wish them the best on their journey." With that, Crow and Raven left Raphael, heading back into town to prepare for their own departure.

Raphael remained for a few moments longer before whispering to himself.

"The future seems so much brighter now." The old doctor finally turned to leave, heading back to his clinic with a very pleased smile across his face.


Off atop Loguetowns lighthouse sat a lonely, cloaked figure leaning on the railing that surrounded the walkway. The individual watched the ship, The Sky Pirate's ship, disappearing into the distance.

The individual pulled a den-den mushi out from their cloak before making a call with it, going down on one knee as they awaited for it to get through. A few seconds passed before it was answered by the person on the receiving end.

"Status report." The calm, deep, but smooth male voice spoke through the den-den mushi.

"Cecil has fallen, along with all his men." The figure reported back, "The operation was interrupted by some medalsome pirates."

"Were they dealt with?" The voice asked.

"No, they weren't." The figure answered before explaining, "They had some powerful individuals with them that made it too difficult to deal with on my own."

"Who?" The voice asked, no, demanded to know. The tone growing darker and darker with every passing second.

"Two known individuals," The figure explained, "A bounty hunter, The Headhunter, Jackdaw Rob. For whatever reason he has decided to become a pirate, and just so happened to find himself here at the wrong place at the wrong time."

"..." The voice was silent for a moment, as if contemplating the cloaked individual's words. A solid ten seconds passed without words, the only noise heard was that of the wind as it continued to pick up. "...and the other?" The voice finally asked.

"One Lovelace Arabella," The figure hissed slightly at the name, "The one Anonymous is watching out for."

The voice hummed on the other end of the call, "Interesting, are they traveling together?"

"They are," The figure confirmed, "But neither of them are Captain of the pirate crew that interfered." The voice didn't respond, giving the figure permission to continue speaking, "That falls to an unknown individual, a rookie pirate by the name Bellow Itzal."

"Is he the one who ruined my operation?"

"He is," The figure confirmed once again, "He was the one to defeat Cecil, a fight he won with ease I must admit."

"Noted, I'll remember his name." The voice declared, "Where are they now?"

"They have just left Loguetown for the Grandline, it won't be long before they arrive." The figure answered quickly.

"Very well, we shall have them dealt with in time." The voice explained, "I'm sending Mr Black to collect you, be ready to go soon. I need you back here to give a better report on the situation. I want details."

The figure dipped their head down, "I shall be ready, my lord."

The voice laughed lowly from the other end of the call, "I'll see you soon, Wilt."

With that, the call ended.

Wilt stood from her bow, her eyes searching the horizon for the ship of one Bellow Itzal but found nothing. It seemed like they'd made a lot of progress despite the worsen waves of the now coming storm.

It didn't matter though.

The Sky Pirates were known to them now, and they'd soon be on the radar to someone you never want to cross.

A Shichibukai.


AN:

Delayed, put off, longer than I thought, and forgotten about. That's what happened with this chapter. My bad…

Quick and easy my arse.

Don't question how quickly people heal between arcs, it's anime logic.

Also, about time we reached the Grandline, am I right? Took us long enough.

Made a Discord for my stories. I doubt many are interested in it but I'll be there as well as a few others, so feel free to join us. We chat, discuss, and mess about there sometimes, maybe. Message/Add me if you want - Arsene#6329 - so I can send an invite link as this site hates links and removes them any time I try to put one in.

Disclaimer, I obviously don't own One Piece (For Shame). All OC' go to their respective owners and such.

AlcatrazDGold - Peace!