She was walking slowly, taking each step with deliberation. The bright sunlight had her wincing and stopping briefly as the disorientation had her feeling dizzy.
"Get moving!"
The shove she got knocked her off balance, and she tripped on the top stair. The chains connecting her to the prisoner in front of her pulled tightly, changing the trajectory of her fall at the last moment, and Dru grunted in pain as she hit the deck at an odd angle.
"Get up, you pirate scum!" The marine yelled, kicking out without much effort. If the pirate couldn't walk, that would make them have to carry her in, and no one wanted to have to do that.
Dru rolled over as she panted, pushing herself up before anything worse happened. She didn't get any help, but she wasn't expecting any either. Here, she was a criminal just like all the others, and the only thing she knew for certain was that it was every man for themselves.
She was near the back of the line of prisoners, so she had time to study the prison's exterior as they were processed through the large gate. The place looked like a castle fortress, but what surprised her was that it appeared to be only one story, with several towers.
She wasn't shocked at the size of the doors, having met several people that were as big as buildings. So of course, a prison in this world would need to be large enough to house prisoners of any size. The two ideas didn't line up.
"Name."
She looked over at the man who spoke and saw that he was wearing a khaki-colored top with dark green pants and a marine style cap- that must have been what the workers in the prison wore. She wasn't sure what would happen when they discovered she wasn't the pirate that was supposed to be here. Uncertain of what to do, she stayed quiet.
The guard rolled his eyes, wondering why the marines didn't just label the prisoners so he didn't have to go through with this each time. "Look, either you tell me your name so we put you in the correct level, or you don't, and we give you to Mistress Sadie until you do. Your choice."
Mistress? Dru thought. Is that some kind of joke?
"Fine, have it your way," the man said, noting down on a tag, and then attaching it to her shirt. "Next!"
Dru looked down as she was given a push forward, trying to read the piece of paper upside down. Her eyebrows rose as she got it. 'Unknown Level 1' it read. She couldn't worry about it now, her hesitation led to this, so she'd just have to deal with whatever happened.
After entering the prison, she could hear the wailing of prisoners all around her, the towers now making sense. The main floor was open, but each tower held cells, a small walking platform in front of them and one set of stairs that circled up to the top.
Each cell seemed crowded with people, though that was mostly based on the number of voices she heard, since she could only see the bars, not those inside.
The line halted, and she could see that the guards were taking the chains that connected them together away, and the prisoners ahead of her were shuffled into several groups. When it was her turn, the guard looked at the tag on her shirt, and gave a small snort.
"We have an unidentified female for Mistress Sadie," he called out to another behind him. He took one of the chains and connected it back to her handcuffs, then stood there next to her- I need a leash now? she thought. What could I possibly do? Try to run? -until a female guard came walking through the room up to them.
"I wasn't told there was a female," she spoke to the guard next to Dru.
"Unidentified," he replied with a shrug. "The roster was incorrect."
"I wonder what happened to the other guy," the female guard responded, holding out her hand. The man placed the chain in her palm, and turned to walk away.
"Let's go," the woman said and Dru followed, wondering if it would do any good to try to convince them that she didn't belong there. "Let me guess, you're innocent, and were taking away by mistake," the guard spoke up suddenly, and Dru looked at her in surprise.
The guard snorted, glancing sideways at her. "That's what they all say," she replied to the unspoken question. "But Mistress Sadie will get the truth. She always does."
Dru was slow on the uptake, but she understood now what was happening. She started thinking frantically, wondering if it would be better to simply admit to being a pirate, or trying to hold out. The last thing she wanted was revealing that she was connected to Dragon- not for her sake, but for his.
She doubted that if this went beyond being asked questions and into torture, that she would be able to stay silent forever, no matter how hard she may want to. Everyone has a breaking point… she thought, trying to stay calm and logical as she decided what to divulge in order to have them believe her when she said she knew nothing else.
"Here we are," the guard said, opening up the door into a new area of the prison. "Women's wing."
"There's a separate section for women?" Dru asked, surprised.
"Oh, so you do know how to speak," the guard said snidely. "Only the first few levels have separate accommodations, though that's more to torture the male prisoners then it is to be kind to the women. Even that is taken for the worst of the criminals."
Dru moved along as the guard pulled on the chain, walking until they came to another room that held a few more female guards, and what looked like a giant hot tub- that was… boiling. She was really hoping her mind was playing tricks on her, and it was just bubbles from water jets.
"Baptism time," the guard said, giving her a bored look. "Don't try anything," she added as she moved over to take the handcuffs off.
Dru stood there, rubbing the rawness of her wrists as she looked from the guard to the water.
"You can strip, or you can go in with your clothes," the guard warned. "But you can't come out until the clothes are off, so we can make sure you're clean and sanitized."
"Sanitized?" Dru asked, knowing now that the water was scalding. She started to strip, telling herself that it was like Sabo always told her. Mind over matter- Strength of will is the strongest there is… she told herself.
Just jump in at once, wading in won't work, she thought. She took a few deeps breaths quickly, pumping herself up. She looked down in order to avoid the stairs when jumping in, but to her dismay saw that they encircled the entire pool.
The guards chuckled cruelly, and she realized that they were having fun at her misery. Pride straightened her spine, and she stepped down to the first step.
Shocked, she crumpled like a piece of paper, and fell headfirst into the pool.
"Devil fruit?" the first guard asked the others, getting a few shrugs in return. "Get the tongs," she ordered, and they moved to follow her direction.
They didn't move slowly, but from Dru's perspective she was in the blistering heat for an eternity. She hadn't been clueless- she had known that she wouldn't be able to swim and that the water would make her weak. But this had been shocking. Just having her feet in the water shouldn't have stolen all her strength and practically make her paralyzed.
She had had horrible thoughts while in the water- wondering what would kill her first, drowning or being boiled alive.
Being fished out was a surprise- thinking that she wasn't worth anything to the guards- and figuring that she now understood why the prison wasn't bigger. Most prisoners drowned before even getting into a cell.
The air was steamy, but still felt blissfully cool in comparison to the water. She was afraid to discover what had happened to her skin, but she couldn't seem to even lift her head once she was placed on some sort of cloth on top of the stone floor. It took all her energy to just breathe.
"Miriam, grab the uniform," she heard the guard that escorted her there speaking. "Akina, grab some sea prism stone cuffs. Mistress Sadie is waiting, and I'm sure she'll be interested in what we've discovered."
Kia slept for an entire day and woke feeling like an old woman. Nami helped her from the bed to the table, though it was a different table from where Sanji was placing dish after dish for Luffy to eat.
"What sounds good, Kia?" the chef asked, even as he stirred pans and pots on all the burners of the stove.
"Whatever you're already making is fine," she replied, fascinated that he was getting so much food prepared so quickly.
"I can't feed you this," Sanji muttered, plating a pan full of pasta, and moving over to place it in front of Luffy, gathering several empty dishes as he left.
"I appreciate the thought, but everything you make is delicious," Kia said with a laugh. She turned to see if Nami was going to back her up, but her friend was just slumped over the table, looking depressed.
"No, sorry, but these are literally whatever I can cook in the shortest amount of time, so I fear the seasoning is off," Sanji replied. "Otherwise I can't keep up with the captain's appetite."
"Luffy!" Kia chastised, turning to her captain. "I can't believe you're having Sanji feeling like he can't prepare his dishes properly!"
"No use…" Nami mumbled from beside her.
"It's true," Sanji added with a chuckle. "He can't hear you."
"What?" Kia asked, looking more closely at Luffy. Understanding dawning, she covered her mouth as she started laughing. "How exactly did he figure out how to eat while he was sleeping?" she asked as she giggled.
"Sheer willpower I'd say," Sanji answered, beaming at her for figuring it out on her own. "He wanted to eat and couldn't seem to stay awake, so he just keeps eating even as he fell asleep."
"And you keep feeding him," Kia said, giving him a smile.
"Well… we wouldn't even be here, or have Robin back without our captain," Sanji murmured, turning back to his stove. "He deserves it... I mean, uh… it's good training!" he spoke up as he realized what he was saying. "I'm becoming much more efficient at making several of these dishes!"
"Of course," Kia smiled, giving him a nod. "Then I'll have some pancakes, if it isn't too much trouble, please."
"Coming right up!" Sanji's body twirled around, as he danced over to the table, depositing another plate of food to Luffy.
Kia took her time eating, listening to Sanji explain that Chopper and Robin had gone out for more supplies, as well as checking on the Franky family's injured; Zoro had left on his own that morning- and good riddance- and Usopp still hadn't made an appearance since they arrived back at Water Seven two days ago.
Kia frowned, but understood that Usopp needed time. She hoped he'd get his act together before they had to leave. He had cut it too close originally, and she'd go drag him back to apologize if she had to.
"And Nami?" she asked, once Sanji was done speaking.
"Nami-swan is upset because of all our belongings," Sanji said in a most sympathetic voice. "The backstreets were completely destroyed by Aqua Laguna."
"Hmm…" Kia mused, wondering if she should offer hope to her friend, or just wait it out.
She didn't have a chance to debate it, as Chopper and Robin returned at that moment. Chopper was quick to announce he needed to check her over, and Robin chuckled at how stern the doctor was when it came to the young artist's treatment.
"I'll be fine Chopper," Kia started, though the reindeer cut her off.
"Yeah, you will be," he stated, though he wasn't smiling. "But it will take another day at least before I want you trying to do anything strenuous."
"I want to take a walk later today, but otherwise I'll take it easy," she counter-offered. "But I'll be back to training tomorrow, even if it's only halfway. Look, most of it is just the left-over bruises."
She didn't see Sanji's smirk, nor Robin's smile as she and Chopper were staring at each other intently. Finally, he nodded to her. "Agreed."
"Our Kia is pushing herself to become even stronger, isn't she?" Robin said as she sat down at the table with Nami, giving her back a rub to try to console her.
"I want to say I'll protect all you ladies so it's unnecessary, but I can't help but fall for you even more because of your strength!" Sanji replied to her, twirling over to place a cup of coffee in front of her.
Kia kept her word, and rested. Even when men from the town came to bring back their belongings which put Nami in the greatest of moods- of course affecting Sanji as well. Even when Iceberg came to visit, to see if they needed anything, and even when Zoro returned to take her out for training- then sneered at her for refusing.
She had made a promise, and it was essential in her mind that she keep it to the best of her ability. She wanted to be someone that the rest of the crew could rely on- maybe not for fighting, but that wasn't all there was to traveling with a pirate crew. Usopp and Nami were proof of that.
She pulled out her sketch book, using the time to mindlessly work on her drawings for Luffy while thinking about what was coming next. She couldn't help but get excited, knowing that she'd get to meet Garp and Koby. She hoped that it all went according to the story she knew, and Koby would try to fight Luffy.
She had been thinking about this a lot- ever since she had found out that Reese had joined the marines with Koby and had ended up with Garp- that she'd be reunited with her sister at Water Seven. And if she was training alongside Koby and…that other guy… what was his name? she thought, even as she pictured his face.
It means, she smirked, that Reese will need someone to spar with…. and that someone… she looked at the page, her heart filling with determination- must be me!
"Aachoo!"
"Ha ha! I won!"
Reese looked at Helmeppo in shocked anger. "That wasn't fair! I can't help a sneeze!"
He stood, giving her a victorious smile. "You moved first, and I didn't do anything to cause it. Those were the rules, and you know it."
Reese looked unhappily at Koby, wishing for him to intervene even though she knew from his sheepish look, that it wouldn't happen.
"Fine," she gritted out. She turned back to glare at Helmeppo before turning to walk out of the door. She could hear the boys following after her.
The bet had been stupid, but that word only defined her relationship with Helmeppo completely. They couldn't go a day without competing over something. After training and traveling together for so long, they started fights over the smallest of things.
Today was no exception.
"Vice Admiral Sir," Reese said, as she walked up to Garp and saluted smartly.
"Cooper," he addressed her, his eyebrow raising in question.
"I need a…. a punishment. Sir."
His second eyebrow rose to meet the first, surprise covering his face. The two boys constantly needed "extra training" but he hadn't ever had to give such an assignment to Cooper. "And why is that?" he asked curiously.
He could see the way her mouth contorted, and could easily surmise that this wasn't her idea. He glanced behind her to the two boys, seeing by the twisted glee on the taller one's face that this was his plan. I wonder how he got the best of her… he thought.
"I…lost a bet," she said mutinously, wishing this was all over. She hated the look on Helmeppo's face, as it was reminiscent of how he was when they first met. She was practically at the point of accepting him, but this was bringing up all sorts of unpleasant feelings.
One of which was the idea that she had acted exactly the same when she was the victor- lording over him with her superiority. The comparison was practically making her sick- and she decided in that moment that she wouldn't ever bet with him again. Then decided that that would be impossible- so she would never act like a sore winner again. Baby steps, Reese.
Garp was still gazing at her, so she straightened up, and looked down at the deck. "I've… been quite the bitch, Gramps," she said, feeling more angry at herself than anything, so that she didn't notice the surprise on the others' faces. "I've been so angry at… at Helmeppo," she could hear the sounds of shock from the boys behind her, and knew it was because she hardly, if ever, used his name, even when speaking to him directly. "That I didn't notice that I was becoming exactly what I hated."
"I see…" Garp responded. He wasn't sure exactly what she was saying, and didn't really care. It was more important that she had some sort of realization. He didn't need to know what it was. "Well then, since I don't enjoy bitchiness in my marines, I guess we'll have to get rid of that. No better way than through some extra training."
Reese nodded, resigned to her fate. She pulled back sharply as Garp moved, wondering what she was in for, as Garp balled his hand into a fist, and moved towards the door she had come from.
She turned, seeing the fist-sized hole in the wall of the galley. "Uh…" she grunted, realizing that Garp was giving her a mess to fix with her devil fruit powers. Based on where she was in her training, it would take a few hours to completely fix the layers of wood, varnish and paint that made it up.
Well… he did say extra training… she thought with a frown.
The next moment she gasped as Garp continued to walk around the deck, stomping several holes as he moved over to the railing, tearing a section out with his hands, and throwing it to the deck. She gaped as she watched the destruction, as he wrecked anything that he set his eyes on. She was appalled that he wasn't stopping, this amount of repair would take her days!
He finally turned back, walked until he stood in front of her, looking down at the dismay on her face. "You've been taking your time learning to use your power," he told her, causing her to look up at him in question. "Extra training isn't just to make you stronger, it's to push yourself to the next level." He looked around and nodded to himself. "You have until tomorrow morning to finish, or you'll stay on the ship when we arrive at Water Seven."
Reese's jaw dropped. "But Gramps!" she protested.
"What happened to Sir?" he asked, giving her a sadistic smile. "Word of advice, you may want to sweet talk the cooks into giving you some snacks." With that, he turned and walked away, leaving the three of them alone.
She turned around, looking at the hole in the wall. May as well start here, she decided.
"Reese?" Koby asked as he moved up to put a hand on her arm. "Garp had a good idea. Getting food can help replenish the energy you'll expend when using your power."
"That's probably smart," she agreed, reaching out to put her hand over the hole Garp had made. "I'll go after I finish with this one."
Helmeppo was quiet, even after Reese finally convinced Koby to leave her to her work. He followed after his friend, still contemplating the words that Reese had spoken. He had been aware that she had hated him, but had always assumed that there wasn't anything he could do about it. He had merely followed her lead, being as combative as she was.
"I'll see you later Koby," he said, veering off from their path and heading back around to the galley. He didn't realize he was being followed until he reached the door, stopping and wondering if this was a good idea.
"Well?" he heard, turning to see Koby reach forward to open the door for him. "Don't stop now," he said with a smile. "The best part about being a marine- and a friend- is helping others."
"I don't know if she wants my help," Helmeppo admitted.
"Can't hurt to try," Koby retorted.
"This is Reese we're talking about," Helmeppo gave Koby a knowing look. "It definitely could hurt." Koby laughed as they stepped in to talk to the cooks about getting some extra rations for their friend.
Kia was grateful beyond measure that no one insisted on coming with her. After all the continued excitement, danger, and stress- she needed some time to process it. And living with a group of people on a ship meant alone time wasn't always possible.
She wouldn't change it now, but every so often it was nice to be able to be alone with her thoughts, not having to worry about what she might say or do that could cause a catastrophe.
And while that was a side benefit to this walk, her true goal was finding and talking to Usopp. She didn't want to force him back or anything, but she thought she might be able to plant the idea of apologizing early on- and hopefully that would bring him back sooner.
She didn't mind Sniper King, but she wanted her friend back- plus they had done the same for her, hadn't they?
"Hey, little sis!"
Her thoughts interrupted; she turned around with a glare.
"Wow…" Iceberg looked uncomfortable at the girl's expression, and turned to Franky. "Seems she doesn't want to talk to you." He decided he was spot on, as Kia turned back to keep walking.
"Hey!" Franky shouted after her. "Don't ignore m-!" He cut himself off as she whipped around to glare again. "Yeah, okay, my bad… Kia…" he murmured, seeming sad.
Iceberg was a little shocked at seeing his friend apologize to the younger girl, and he burst out laughing. "Well, that is a sight I never thought I'd see!" he said, continuing to laugh uproariously.
"It's no big deal!" Franky said, giving him a push. "Just shut up, Ice for brains!"
Kia smiled; she couldn't help it. Iceberg was always so serious when she had seen him, so to see this side of him was so unexpected and wonderful. "Mr. Iceberg, good to see you again," she greeted. "Franky," she added.
"Hello Miss Kia," Iceberg responded. "Franky told me what happened at Enies Lobby, and he had nothing but good things to say about you personally. He didn't mention that he had angered you."
Kia rolled her eyes at Franky. "Actually, I have nothing but nice things to say about him too," she said giving him a smirk. "But I already have a brother, and I told him so."
"Ah," he answered, also ignoring Franky's muttering about being ignored, and speaking directly to her. "He doesn't mean anything by it," he said, his hand coming up by his mouth as if telling her a secret. "He's always had bad manners you see."
"Hey! Idiotberg! Knock it off!" Franky yelled, turning to Kia. "I said my bad," he grumbled to her.
"Forgiven," she replied, giving him a smile. "I'd ask what you two are doing out here, but I suppose the president of the Galley Law company should check on his docks. As for me, I've been looking for Usopp." She saw their confused looks and added, "our long-nosed friend that has been wearing a mask when around us."
"Haven't seen him," Franky replied, looking thoughtful. He turned to glance at Iceberg in question.
"He has been helping to put the dock to rights, usually alongside his giant friends," Iceberg said as he started petting the small white mouse that appeared from his jacket pocket. "I don't know where he is, but I can find out tomorrow if you would like."
"That's okay," she answered with a smile. "I was just getting some air, I've been resting for a few days now, and it was driving me crazy. I'll come back in the morning, when he's sure to be around."
"I would like to tell you something," Iceberg said, and Kia was surprised at the sudden serious atmosphere. "Shall we continue to walk?" he asked, and she nodded. They started towards the dock entrance, and Kia waited for him to speak.
"As I said, Franky told me about what happened at Enies Lobby." Kia looked over to him and nodded, uncertain of what he could possibly want to say. Perhaps something about his gratitude that I helped Franky? she thought.
"You may not know, but both Franky and I have had dealings with that man, Spandam, before," he continued, nodding at Kia's surprised look. "And I am... concerned… because he is not the type to… let things go."
Kia was surprised, but not at hearing that Iceberg knew Spandam. She was surprised that he was concerned for her. She had been surprised that Iceberg knew her name, and now this… had her speechless.
"Iceberg always looks at what could go wrong," Franky said, wondering what was going through her mind.
"Joke all you want, but you told me that he truly believed she could tell him the future," Iceberg countered. "And while he is a petty man who has overreaching ambition," he gave a small smile at the grin Franky gave him, "with the backing of the Navy, he has the power he needs to get what he wants. If he wants you? That will be dangerous."
"I appreciate your concern for me," Kia replied, feeling very grateful that someone she had barely met cared enough to tell her this. "But he was in charge of that mission, and he came away with nothing but failure."
"And a broken back," Franky added with a laugh. "True justice there."
"Couldn't agree more, especially since that was Robin's doing," she replied. "He has a knack for breaking people's spirit, and he almost had Robin's. I'm glad she was able to finally pay him back."
"And you're certain that there is no danger from Nico Robin?" Iceberg asked quietly, and Kia could sense his hesitation.
"She simply wants to learn what happened in the blank century," Kia answered. "She's a scholar, and has no interest in weapons. Not even giant ones."
"I… see," he said, though he wasn't sure that he did. It was a little hard to swallow that a pirate had no desire for the wealth that could be hers if she were to sell her information to the right bidder.
"You know, it's kind of funny," Kia said, understanding him easily. "If the government had taken her in, after everything, she probably would have given them what they wanted. But instead, they labeled her a criminal, and ensured that she would go against them no matter what." She gave a humorless laugh at the ridiculousness of the whole situation.
"Then, instead of offering her wealth, or freedom, they try to capture her to torture the information out of her," Franky continued. "Seems crazy, right? But that's the marines for ya."
"I was thinking stupid, but yes," she agreed. She glanced at Iceberg again. "And she's one of us, so we'll do anything to keep her safe. Just like they all did for me, and anyone else on the crew. Hell, Luffy would practically do the same for anyone he likes."
"That Straw Hat boy is much more than he appears at first," Iceberg said with a smirk. "It was fun listening to Franky tell us the whole story. He seems to respect you all very much."
"Hey!" Franky said, looking embarrassed.
"Well, I feel the same," she replied, giving Franky a genuine smile. "He really helped us out back there, and saved Robin and my lives several times as well."
"And here I thought he was exaggerating about that," Iceberg teased, and Kia laughed, as Franky started cursing them both out.
They continued walking, though Iceberg was feeling much lighter than he had been before they started. He laughed again at something Kia said, making her grin up at him. It wasn't often he was in such a mood, but he couldn't seem to hold back at the moment.
"Here we go, are you ready?"
"Totally."
Red-Haired Shanks glanced down at his temporary crew member, smiling at her enthusiasm. "You've worked hard to get here," he reminded her. "If you let your guard down, you'll probably pass out."
"Trust me, I can feel it," she replied, the determination on her face evident as they slowed to come aside the Moby Dick. "But I want to meet the Whitebeard pirates." Ash gave him a nudge in the stomach with her elbow. "Didn't you say something about it being mostly men on that ship?" she teased.
His face fell into a grimace. "Don't make me turn this ship around," he threatened, brow furrowing as she started laughing. "What?" he griped, not liking that she wasn't taking his warning seriously.
"Sorry, sorry," she said, waving in front of her face to calm down. She gave him a fond, yet sad smile. "You sounded just like my dad, that's all."
Suddenly uncomfortable, Shanks cleared his throat. "Uh…"
"Oh, man, I can't believe your guys took out all those marines back there," she quickly changed the subject as she looked up at the Moby Dick's mast above them. "Benn said it was an entire fleet!"
"Yeah, it was," he smiled again, grateful that she didn't make him respond to her previous comment- he wasn't even sure what he would have said and was a little worried that something even more paternal may have come out. "You ready?" he asked again, as the gangplank that would connect the ships was finally put in place.
Ash turned back to him and grinned. "Ready captain," she responded eagerly. She glanced at the huge gourd that was on his other side as he grabbed the sash that was around it. "I'd offer to carry that for you, but I don't think I can."
"Carry it?" he said, giving her a wink. "I'm bringing the bastard alcohol, but I'll be damned if I carry it to him."
She chuckled as he laughed, and took off in a leap over to the other ship. She suddenly realized that the gangplank was for her, and she took off to catch up to him.
Walking behind someone intimidating was nothing new to Ash, she had been doing so for months with Mihawk. But as she followed Shanks up the stairs to the main deck, she thought she had only once walked behind Mihawk with bodies littering the ground.
And this time, it was because they simply couldn't be in Shanks' presence, not because of an attack. It was pretty awe-inspiring and humbling at the same time.
He had originally offered to let her walk ahead of him, or even by his side, but she had nixed that notion because she enjoyed watching the people as they neared. And of course, she had no idea what they were getting into, so she wanted to remain outside of the spotlight until she did.
She was trying to take everything in at once, grateful that Shanks wasn't in a hurry to get to Whitebeard, so she could walk slowly behind him.
"Those with a weak will can't even stand in the presence of that man," she heard, and turned to see a large, angry looking man that was wearing armor- a plated breast piece and enormous shoulder guards.
I wonder how those shoulder pieces even stay on… she thought.
"The power of his haki… is impressive," the warrior added.
The smaller blonde man in front of him started angrily barking orders to leave the fallen where they were- since they were just passed out. However, his body language said the opposite as he leaned back to casually sit on a railing that separated the crew from the main area of the deck. She thought he seemed too young to be in charge, but reminded herself that age never seemed to be a factor in this world.
She could hear the murmurs and questions from the crowd about her, but she ignored them. The blonde met her eye, and they had a slight staring contest- which she lost as she looked away.
Marco continued to eye the girl- she was young, but he knew Red Hair didn't travel with a woman. He was more a woman in every port type of pirate. So there was a reason she was here… he just didn't know what it was yet. I'm not leaving them both alone with Pops, no matter what he says, he thought as he glared.
Shanks came to a stop, glanced behind him to tell Ash to join him, and started speaking. "You'll have to excuse me," he said, sounding diplomatic, but not at all sorry. "I have a difficult time staying relaxed when I'm on an enemy ship."
Hearing a crack, Ash turned in surprise to see part of the ship had ruptured, and she looked back to Shanks in awe. Did he just damage the ship with his haki? she wondered. She looked ahead to the giant of a man, who had several IV bags connected to him through tubes attached to his chest. He also had an impressive mustache- but not a beard that she could see.
Maybe he had to shave it off? she mused.
"Seeing the scars he gave you make my own start to ache," Whitebeard rumbled, even as his eyes moved over to the girl who looked to be trying to move next to the runt without garnering attention. His eyebrow rose as he noticed that the girl didn't look intimidated or scared as most kids did around him. She looked at him curiously, with a tinge of sympathy.
He didn't really like it, but for some reason he wasn't insulted as he was whenever his nurses gave him a sympathetic look. However, he was never one to not say what was on his mind. "What, girl?" he demanded, disappointed that she just tilted her head and looked to her companion.
"It's a pleasure to meet you Captain Whitebeard," she answered, after looking to Shanks and getting the go ahead- giving him a small bow of her head. "I'm sorry you're not feeling well."
He was a little taken aback, and he crossed his arms in front of his chest giving a rumbling laugh. "Gra ra ra ra!" he chortled. "I didn't expect manners from someone traveling with this fool!"
"Fool?" Shanks asked, still smiling, though it now had an edge. "I've come to talk, not fight. And to prove it, I brought some fine medicinal water to share."
"You knock out half my boys with your haki, then offer me a drink?" Whitebeard grumbled, though Ash could tell he was amused, not angry. "You have balls, kid."
"Yeah, Red hair! Look at this mess you made!" Marco added on, as he glanced around the deck. He was more upset about the extra work this meant for him and the other division commanders then he was about Shanks actually using his haki. They had expected nothing less after all.
But now he knew these newer boys needed a lot of work.
"Marco, right?" Shanks asked, giving him a smile. "I guess this means you want to join us?" he ventured.
"Go to hell!" Marco rolled his eyes.
"And the girl? She part of your crew, or some type of peacekeeper?" Whitebeard asked, looking back to Ash.
"This is Ashley," Shanks introduced her, as he glanced towards her.
Whitebeard waited for a few moments; the entire ship was silent. Finally, he said, "And? What kind of introduction is that?" he asked.
"Um, Ash is fine," Ash spoke up, looking to Shanks, trying to gauge how best to approach this. "And I'm just, uh, travelling with the Red-Hair pirates for a time in order to learn from them."
"Pops, you want us here?" the large, armored man asked, and Shanks and Ash turned from glancing at him back to Whitebeard, who raised his brow at Shanks in question.
"I brought her here to tell you what she witnessed, but perhaps we should talk first," Shanks suggested.
"Marco, show our guest around, will you?" Whitebeard said, without pulling his gaze from Shanks.
"You sure, Pops?" Marco asked.
"Yeah, looks like there won't be any fighting," he answered. "You can leave us."
"Was that still in question?" Ash whispered to Shanks as he turned to her with a smirk.
"Well, we are technically enemies," Shanks replied. He put a hand on her shoulder to nudge her over to Marco. He looked up to Marco, who was looking resigned to being a tour guide. "Fair warning, she never runs out of questions," he said, giving the younger man a crafty smile, and getting flipped off as a reply. He couldn't help but laugh. "Have fun, but keep your guard up," he said as she walked away.
He was glad that one of the crew brought him a sake cup, so he started pouring himself a drink before tossing the rest to Whitebeard. "A specialty from my hometown. Give it a try."
"You don't really want to see the ship, do ya?" Marco asked, sounding bored.
Ash walked to the railing, peering down at the motionless water. She could practically see her reflection. "So did he used to have a beard, or is it a misnomer?" she asked, turning around and leaning back against the railing.
"What?" Marco asked, giving her a confused look.
"Whitebeard," she clarified. "Did he used to have like, an epic beard and that was how he got his name? Or was it because of something else, like he refused to grow a beard?" she asked. She was relaxed now that she wasn't standing so close to Shanks and didn't have to focus so hard on her haki.
And being around a group of guys almost felt like she was back home.
"I… why do you even care?" he asked, looking thoroughly baffled.
"He received that name long ago, before we all were even born," the armored man answered, and Ash looked around to see that most of the men that had been on the deck were now waiting here with her. "He's never explained."
"Okay," she nodded. It was the best answer she'd get from them. "So, what's your name?" she asked. "I'm Ash."
"Alright, look," Marco stepped in front of her, forcing her to look up at him. "Red hair wasn't kidding about the questions, but that doesn't mean we're just gonna answer them. You're on our ship, so we should be the ones asking the questions."
She stayed slouched, not wanting to seem too aggressive. Shanks had told her explicitly that she should defend herself if she needed to while she was on the ship, and that he would back her up without question.
But Benn and Yasopp had confided in her that any fighting on their part would be akin to declaring war with the Whitebeard pirates, while right now they had a truce. They also told her that Whitebeard was easily agitated, and their own captain wouldn't back down, nor would they want him to.
So Ash knew that unless these boys tried to harm her, she'd do her damnedest to keep the peace. "How about we take turns then?" she suggested. "No lies, but also no guarantees of answers. We only answer what we want to."
Marco looked down at the girl, trying to find the catch, but eventually he nodded. "If you're only with these pirates temporarily, who do you normally sail with?"
She shrugged; it wasn't like it was a secret. But then again, just his name tended to cause some people to want to fight. "I'm looking for my sisters, so I've been bouncing around a little," she replied honestly. "I'm technically a part of Hawkeye's crew," she gave another shrug, ignoring their surprise and disbelieving looks.
"What? No way that's true."
"He sails alone."
"You said no lies!"
She looked over to the armored man curiously. "Who are you?" she asked, hoping he would give more than his name.
His angry face didn't change, and she supposed he just had the best resting bitch face she'd ever witnessed. "Third division commander, Jozu," he replied.
"Wow, that's so cool," she said, giving him a grin. "You guys must have tons of crew members, since your ship is so big, and you have several divisions."
"This is just our flag ship, we're basically an armada," he replied proudly.
"Hey, what happened to taking turns?" Marco demanded.
"I only asked one question," she answered innocently.
"Why are you with the Red Hair pirates?" Jozu asked, seeming a little more relaxed.
"They're helping me learn to combat devil fruit users," she answered. She could have left it at that, but decided to give a little more, in order to take down their defenses. "I met a super creep, and his power basically froze me in place. I don't ever want to be powerless again. Master Mihawk hasn't dealt with many power holders that he can't cut up, so I asked Shanks for help."
"You throw these big names around like it's nothing," someone muttered, and she just shrugged.
"Sorry," she said with a smile. "So, I don't know everything, but I do know that Shanks wanted to come talk about someone named Ace. Any idea why?" she asked.
The men got serious very quickly, and Marco backed up to pace a little, throwing furtive glances at Jozu. But after a few moments of awkward silence, she just cleared her throat. "Uh, maybe a tour would be better?" she offered.
"I don't know what exactly Shanks wants to talk about," Marco said slowly, though he was looking back towards the deck where their captains were, even though they were too far away to see. "But most likely, it's about Teech."
"Teech?" she asked, but Marco just shook his head.
"My turn," he said. "Why did Shanks bring you with him? Are you just his way of keeping us from fighting?"
"He really doesn't want to fight," Ash replied, rolling her eyes. "And he wanted me to tell Whitebeard about something I saw while in Marie Jois with Master Mihawk."
"What?" Marco asked, stepping up to her again.
"First, you tell me about Ace, and then I'll tell you," she countered.
They all turned, hearing Whitebeard laugh. It wasn't a good, having fun laugh. It sounded more scornful than anything, and Ash knew their time was almost up.
"Well?" she asked.
"So, boss?" Lucky asked, once Shanks had ordered the men to row them away from Whitebeard's ship. "We at war?"
"Not this time," Shanks said with a sigh. He looked over at Ashley, who was waving and calling out farewells to the Moby Dick. He turned back, seeing Marco glaring, and Jozu reluctantly raise his hand in farewell for a moment before turning away.
"Sorry Ash," he said to her. "I thought I could at least give him something to think about, and then with your evidence he'd be convinced. But he just didn't want to hear it."
"It's okay," she answered. "Most captains don't like being told what they should do, even if it's the right thing." She gave a little sigh as Lucky and Yasopp snickered and turned back from the water. "Besides, from what Marco said, they actually tried to stop Ace, and he wasn't having it. Jozu admitted that Whitebeard told Ace he had a bad feeling about going after this Teech guy."
"Really?" he asked, seeming surprised. "Well, I guess the only failure was not telling your part then."
"I told Marco and Jozu," she replied, seeing the smile bloom on his face. "Well, after hearing that laugh of his, I figured I wouldn't get the chance to tell Whitebeard."
She looked at Shanks, brow furrowed. "But what I still don't get, is why you thought him hearing all that about Blackbeard trying to become a warlord would be helpful at all."
Shanks shook his head. "For such a smart girl, you can sure overlook the obvious," he told her, and had her frowning at him. "Blackbeard is the name that Teech chose for himself, now that he's out on his own."
All the pieces finally clicked into place, and Ash's hand rushed to cover her open mouth. "No way," she murmured, horrified.
"It seems we wouldn't have been able to change it either way, so we'll just have to see what happens," Shanks said, patting the top of her head. "But we know we did our best."
She nodded, taking the lesson for what it was. She could tell that he wasn't satisfied either, because knowing there was nothing else they could do was disheartening. Knowing they did all they could, however, made it a little easier to swallow.
"Time to go home boys," Shanks called, getting whoops and cheers in response.
Zoro was huffing, but it was more from his fear of not making it in time then because he was winded.
I don't have time for this! he thought, gritting his teeth in frustration. He knew he could…sometimes… go the wrong way. But it's not like it's ever been a big deal!
He wasn't one to ask for help, but his pride was a small thing compared to his crew. He had seen the navy ship sailing into town, and even though all of Water Seven was happy with them right now, that could change as quickly as a snap.
The ordinary citizens wouldn't go against the Marines for a bunch of pirates, no matter what they had done for the mayor, and he wouldn't expect them to. They were on their own- so he had to get there.
The two kids came by at just the right moment, and he didn't even let them talk, he just turned and demanded that they show him the way back to the docks. The attitude they threw at him was cut short by a knock to the head, and now he was following, well, pushing them forward- they were far too sluggish- only slowing slightly when they screeched about going the wrong way.
"Zoro?!"
He looked, stumbling, as he saw Kia, but he didn't stop. "Come on! The Marines are headed for the base!"
"Right now?!" Kia fumbled but went chasing after him and the boys. She could hear them yelling that they had made it- she had only been around the corner- and she couldn't help but look for a familiar face. She's here… isn't she?!
Zoro barreled through the gate, seeing all the uniformed men in front of him, and pulled out his two good swords. Dammit, I can't use my strongest attacks! I have to hope that none of these guys are super strong- especially if Luffy is still sleeping!
The concern didn't show on his face, he let go of it all, and started doing what he had to. If Luffy was asleep, that meant it was up to him to keep everyone safe. He wouldn't count on anyone- they could already be captured for all he knew.
Kia… she's right behind me… he reminded himself. Giving a nod, he continued slashing. He didn't need to kill them; they were already on the Marine's shit list. And though Kia never condemned him, he knew she didn't like it when he killed the lackeys that were simply following orders.
He heard her yell, and he grinned, glad that he had seen her as he came in. He had jumped right into the middle of the group of marines, ensuring their focus was on him, so when she came in, she'd have the element of surprise.
From the sounds of it, she had taken full advantage with her escrima sticks, and he fell a surge of pride. She had come a long way in a relatively short time.
Trying to disarm the soldiers was actually more of a challenge than just cutting them down, which he wouldn't admit to enjoying, but it did give him another element of training himself. He had learned awhile back that a master swordsman would be able to choose what he cut- but he had yet to be able to do so without intense concentration.
This type of fight was the perfect type of training. He wanted to hit the weapons, not the people. But, if he failed to do so, he wouldn't feel bad about it. He needed to be able to strike people down, both with and without slicing them, and within a moment to decide which. So, he would continue to try until it became second nature.
He finished with those closest to him and turned just in time to block someone's flying attack. He caught sight of the large blades and smirked at the younger marine. "Kukri knives," he grinned, his excitement level rising at the thought of a stronger opponent. "Unusual choice."
The young man didn't speak, just flipped around to attack again, and Zoro could sense his win after seeing it. He heard Luffy yelling about not needing to fight, but he wasn't going to let himself get cut. Though he would end it quickly, seeing as his captain was not a prisoner.
Luffy was wondering what was happening as he ran out of the building, shouting for Zoro to stop. His heart clenched as he saw Kia fighting the marines, though most of them had backed away. He hadn't even known she was there, but there she was knocking several men off their feet with her sticks.
He wanted to help, but he also wanted her to have her moment… it was so tough to decide! Before he could choose, he felt his head snap back. It hadn't hurt, but who was trying to start something with him while he was trying to watch his sister?!
"Why you!" he yelled, annoyed at everyone now. The guy disappeared, and Luffy grit his teeth, wondering if every marine he fought now was going to use the same techniques as those CP guys. He didn't have time for this, dammit!
Grabbing the guy as he came at him, Luffy slammed him to the ground, hand above him to punch his lights out. He looked up, glancing around for Kia, just as a marine went for Zoro's back with a staff.
Zoro moved quickly, one arm coming up to block the blow, his eyes shining. Maybe the fight isn't over after all… he thought. His jaw dropped a little, recognizing the marine, even as she let her weapon clatter to the ground.
"Zoro?" she asked, giving him a smile. He wondered why his adrenaline was still rushing through him, now that he knew for certain the fight was over.
Luffy could tell Zoro was fine, so he went back to looking for Kia, as he was suddenly flipped- his back hitting the ground. He glanced up at the marine, wondering what this guy's deal was, when the guy was suddenly gone.
He sat up, having heard Kia call his name, and realized that she had tackled the marine that had been holding him, and they had rolled a couple of times before coming to a stop.
Luffy looked at the compromising situation and started laughing his head off. Kia was soo funny!
Zoro hadn't wanted to stare at Reese, so he had looked away as he put his swords back in their sheaths. Hearing Kia shout Luffy's name had him grabbing the hilt, ready for action. The ensuing tussle, and Luffy's laughter had him relaxing one again.
He walked over to Luffy, knocking him on the head. "Hey, captain, the least you could do is take care of your own opponent," he muttered to Luffy, though he knew it wouldn't do much good. He could see Reese heading over to them anyway, and he didn't want to get in the middle of their reunion. "C'mon, let's go," he told Luffy.
"Hey, Kia did good, huh Zoro?" Luffy asked, rocking back, and then jumping to his feet. He was oblivious as always, and walked over to where Kia was laying, so Zoro followed… just in case he was needed.
Kia had her eyes scrunched tight, as they had rolled, and though some part of her knew that she was holding tightly to Koby, she didn't let go, just in case he went to attack her.
"Hey Kia, you wanna let him breathe?"
Opening her eyes, she realized not only was she holding on to Koby, but she was basically wrapped around him. Looking up at her little sister's smirking face, only had her blushing, so she did everything she could to just make it all go away.
She may have pushed a red-faced Koby a little harder than she meant to, so she quickly got to her feet and offered him a hand. "I'm so sorry about that!" she said in a rush. "I was just trying to help my captain!"
Reese cocked a hip and smiled, though it was more the joy of seeing her sister than it was because of her discomfort. Mostly.
"Ha Ha ha! You three didn't stand a chance!"
Everyone in the courtyard turned to the huge man, as he walked over to the group of fighters. "Boys, you were no match at all, and Cooper! You didn't even try!"
Reese turned to give a snotty reply when her arms were full of her sister. "Holy Guacamole, I know Luffy and Zoro said they met you, and you went with Koby, and I was hoping but it was so hard not to worry about when I'd get to see you!" Kia cried happily, hugging her sister with all her might.
"Yeah, yeah," Reese grumbled, though she was practically ready to cry, she was so happy. She just didn't want all this emotion in front of her colleagues… they'd never let her hear the end of it. "Ease up there Kia," she murmured as she patted her sister on the back.
"Sorry," Kia apologized, knowing that her sister was uncomfortable with emotional displays in public. She stepped back, trying to keep the feeling in. You can cry later, you big baby, she told herself, though she knew Reese was having a hard time too. At least I had an idea that I'd see her here, she thought. Reese had no guarantees that she'd see any of us ever again. That must have been so hard!
"Sorry, I just can't believe I'd see my sister again!" Kia exclaimed, turning to the marines that were around her. She gave Reese's arm a shake and ordered, "Introductions!"
Reese laughed, shaking her head. "As if I need to," she said dryly, giving Kia a knowing look.
Kia gave her a warning look, which confused all those that were watching them. Then she laughed. "That's true! Between Luffy's and Zoro's stories, I guess I don't need you to tell me, but it's still the polite thing to do."
Reese could hear snickers; the men were obviously amused to see her get scolded. "Alright, alright," she grumbled. She turned to Koby and began an introduction. "This is the chief petty officer, and my best friend-"
"Koby!" Kia cheered, making the boy look at her with wide eyes. "It's so nice to meet you! I'm sorry about tackling you."
"Uh, it's no problem!" he said, standing up straight and clicking his heels together.
"Jeez, Koby, you don't have to salute her," Reese teased.
"I'm not, I'm just happy to meet your family!" he shot back with a grin.
His eyes went wide again, when Kia went in for a hug. "You're so sweet! And thank you so much for being there for Reese, I know it had to be hard for her to suddenly be all alone on a strange island."
"What?" Koby asked, as Kia stepped back, and he turned to Reese in question.
"Kia, I know Reese is your sister, but why are you acting like you know this guy?" Luffy asked, as he stepped forward.
"You know this guy too, Luffy," Kia laughed, rolling her eyes. "Koby and Reese joined the marines together, remember?"
"Hi Luffy, Hi Zoro!" Koby said excitedly. "I'm so happy to see you again, and you're just as strong as I remember!"
"I have a friend named Koby, but he's a whole lot smaller than this guy," Luffy stated bluntly. "Sorry," he told Koby.
He looked puzzled at Kia and Reese as they laughed.
"Nope, that's the right Koby," Koby said, glad that he could surprise Luffy with how much he had changed. "The little, good for nothing crybaby," he added.
"WHAAA?" Luffy gaped, his eyes bugging out of his head. Zoro even stepped closer to peer at Koby.
"Wow, that really is him," Zoro muttered. "The last we heard; you were at Navy Headquarters."
"We were," Reese interjected. "But we ended up being trained by none other than Vice Admiral Garp himself," she said proudly, hoping he was someone Kia would freak out about.
"GARP!?" Kia could hear Nami cry from the building. "The Navy hero that fought Gold Roger?!"
"Wow, that's amazing," Kia said happily, looking from Garp to Reese. Something was up, but she knew well enough to wait until they were alone to ask questions. "Well, come inside! We have a lot to catch up on!"
"Hey!"
They turned, and Reese smirked at seeing Helmeppo infuriated at having been ignored. C'mon Reese, you're better than this, remember… we're going to be nicer, right?
"You guys didn't recognize me at all!" he cried.
"You know who he is?" Reese whispered to her sister, seeing the glare she was giving him, and the terse nod had her snickering.
"Who the hell are you?" Zoro asked with a sigh, though he didn't care.
"It's me. See? Me!"
"No, I don't see," Luffy stated, looking at Koby.
"Captain Morgan's son, remember? I tried to execute you?" Helpmeppo tried again, but the pair only looked at him in question.
"Sounds like you're the dick that had daddy issues," Kia said bluntly, seeing the boys gape at her while Reese looked thrilled.
Zoro snorted at the attitude, but he remembered the guy now. Though he could tell he wasn't the same as before, it didn't mean he had to be friendly.
"Oh," Luffy said, and Zoro wanted to laugh again. "You sucked, no wonder I didn't remember you."
Looks like Luffy feels the same.
"I can't forgive them!" Helpmeppo wailed to Koby.
"We all have to live with the consequences of our actions," Reese stated, giving him a look. He fumed at her, but he was silent after that.
"Well come on, we need to celebrate!" Luffy cheered, slapping Koby on the back.
"Wait," Koby stopped, looking serious. "I know we're enemies now, Luffy-"
"Knock that crap off," Kia interrupted, as she walked up. She grabbed one of Luffy's hands, and one of Koby's and started pulling them towards the giant hole in their wall. "If we were enemies, we'd still be fighting, now wouldn't we?"
She didn't give him a moment to answer, just turned to Luffy. "What happened here?" she asked him, getting a sheepish smile in return.
"Well, Grandpa…"
Kia turned to look at Garp, who just crossed his arms and stared right back.
"Gramps is all about making an impression, even if it's a bad one," Reese murmured. She finally got the freak out she had been hoping for, as Kia just gaped at her.
"Did you just call him… Gramps?!"
Garp reared back as the girl turned to him with pleading eyes. "Can I call you Gramps too, Mr. Garp, sir?"
"WHAAA?" Garp bellowed.