One Piece: The Unreal Adventure Chapter 10, an one piece fanfic

"Why don't you stay down, you little shit," Kuroobi growled. "Fish-man Karate: Thousand Pound Puch."

Not falling for that again, Coby jumped to the side, avoiding the shockwaves created by the attack and kicked Kuroobi on his hand.

"Uh…" the Fishman grunted stepping back, when his hand bleed.

On the sole of Coby's feet was another bone-like claw, that he used to stab Kuroobi's hand.

Luffy was a bit impressed. So that's why it's called the claw claw fruit. Not bad… but this ability kind of reminded him of Mr 1 Dan Bonez's fruit. Other than the regenerative factor of course.

"Sanji!" Nami gasped, which brought Luffy's attention back to Sanji and Arlong. It seemed that Arlong had managed to finally slash Sanji with his sword. But it didn't seem to do anything… well other than making an audible cracking sound… and the side of Arlong's saw blade had now visible cracks.

"Was that supposed to hurt?" Sanji asked, his hand was up, on the side of his head, where the 'saw balde' hit Sanji's arm, and a few of the saw teeth had cracks on it. And that's not all, Sanji was fully uninjured, other then his clothes being a bit damaged of course.

Arlong felt like he had slashed his sword against an iron piller. But that wasn't why he was surprised, no… he recognized that trait. Curly eyebrows, use of leg-based martial arts that involved elements with a tough exoskeleton. "You…" but he couldn't finish his sentence as he was kicked on the balls with Sanji's flaming legs and thrown towards the second floor of the building, the large cluttering to the floor. "Uhhhhh!"

Luffy whistled, "That was brutal." The rest of the males winched at the sight. Even Coby and Kuroobi winched by what they saw. But they quickly resumed the fight

For a while nothing happened. Maybe the last kick had done it…

Arlong screamed jumping down from the building and he took something out of his pocket. It looked like a blue marble. "I was saving it up for the straw hat, but you… I will kill you."

The fishman seemed furious, well one could see that he was bleeding from his pants… poor Arlong. But no one found pity in the Fishman.

"Oh, it seems the fight's getting interesting…" Luffy mused as he saw the Fishman gulp the pill down. Luffy wondered if it was the Energy Steroids that Arlong 2.0 used, but wasn't it capsule-shaped?

After ingesting the pill, suddenly the fisman's body bloated, before returning to normal. "Now, you don't have any chance."

"Is that supposed to scare…" Sanji was cut off as he was punched in the gut by Arlong. He slammed into the wall, where Arlong followed through, by dragging his face and slamming it on the ground.

But, Sanji wasn't down as he flipped up and landed a strong kick to the fisherman's jaw. It made Arlong let go of Sanji and he used this moment to deliver another kick to the Fishman and gain some distance.

Arlong wiped his face off the blood. "Your kicks don't hurt anymore…" he grinned.

Sanji stood up and dusted his clothes not even bothered. "Well, isn't that news… what have you taken? Steroids? I have heard that it makes your ball unusable, but then again, I made sure of that." he said while cracking his neck with a cocky smirk.

And that pissed Arlong off as he growled and charged against Sanji with full force.

Punches and kicks were exchanged. And this time Sanji was using his all, even Luffy was impressed with Sanji's speed. But this time Arlong was in the advantage.

The others who were on Luffy's side were also shocked with how fast Sanji and Arlong was moving. Arlong still couldn't keep up with Sanji's speed, but he seemed to take all the damage with ease and return the blows from time to time. And this time the fight was a bit more even…

Gin was surprised himself. He knew Sanji was strong, but not by that much. He could have easily handled Don Krig and his whole crew himself.

Kuina and Zoro on the side were also surprised. The blonde was stronger then them. Zoro more so…

In the past few days he has been around so many powerful people. Mihawk, Luffy and even Kuina… now even the cook was aware of him. It made his resolve stronger, he needs to grow stronger if he wants to follow through his dream. And he will get there.

With that Zoro, started walking away, making Luffy and Kuina raise eyebrows. The others didn't notice. And Luffy and Kuina didn't ask.

Now that he had three swords he could practice again, and his chest wound is also small enoug that he could do some heavy training without reopening his wound. He did get stabbed by a knife smaller than a butter knife.

Luffy was a bit interested in what Zoro was going to do… but he might most probably go do some training. There was no doubt that Zoro would gain strength fast. He might be behind now, but with observation, one can see someone's will.

And Zoro's will was brighter than the rest of his crew mates even if he wasn't the strongest. There is a reason why Mihawk acknowledged Zoro's challenge.

On a scale of ranking, he would rank Zoro as being the fifth, above Gin and Coby. The first was obviously him. With Sparky just behind him.

Sanji was equal to Sparky in terms of speed, but Sparky had the upper hand in strength. Also, his monkey friend had more techniques, —and with how eagerly Sparky was watching the fight, he might also have picked on a few new moves— and not to mention his devil fruit, which can essentially debuff any opponent. And that's not even counting that Sparky already had observation Haki.

After Sanji, there was Kuina then Zoro. But there was something special about Zoro, and he had no doubt that Zoro would get stronger from this point on. So of course as a good captain, he would help him.

On that note, Luffy looked at Sparky and jabbed his thumb behind him, pointing at the green-haired swordsman who was walking away. He mouthed a few words silently, 'Make sure he doesn't get lost.' He said, 'And he also might need a sparring partner.'

The monkey blinked before shrugging and walking back towards Zoro. What? If Zoro wanted to gain strength, then as his captain it was his duty that his wish is granted. Besides being the world's strongest swordsman as his right-hand man was a boon in his books.

"I'm not surprised you are this strong," Arlong said smuggling. Even though he was getting beat up, he had only a few injuries to show for. Sanji also had gotten some injuries, but they were few to count and only skin deep. "You are one of those Vinsmokes aren't you?"

And that made Sanji flinch, and become angry, before he used that anger to fuel the fire and kick Arlong, which he this time dodged before grabbing Sanji's leg and throwing him through another wall.

"Is that all you have got, human… while I might not be a freak like you Vinsmokes, that pill that I took is a concentrated water pill, one of its kind… still experimental, but with it, the fishman will gain the strength while they are in water… and it will also boost our recovering capabilities," Arlong said. "Nothing can stop me now, that I have fully digested the pill. Shashasha."

Luffy was a bit surprised this wasn't on the original, but then again, Luffy knew from the canon that a Fishman is half as strong as they are on land than water. So a concentrated water pill wasn't that far-fetched when you think about it…

Sanji came out of the rubble, looking even more pissed as he wiped the blood of his face. "Was that supposed to scare me?"

"Shashasha… don't show me, false bravado human." Arlong said, "After I'm done with you and your crew, I will find sick pleasure in killing Nami and the villagers…"

"Don't speak but her with your foul mouth." Sanji said kicking the Fishman in his face, "I will beat you with everything I have got. Diable Mouton Shot" With that he kicked the Fishman right in the stomach five times in under a second, shooting the Fishman away onto the side of the pool, and Sanji blitzed above the Fishman and delivered a furious kick to the fisherman's shoulder, making him crash into the ground.

Sanji jumped off spinning in air and landed a few feet away from Arlong as if he had performed acrobatics.

Arlong on the other hand got up huffing, before he started to puke water… onto the floor.

"Arlong…" Kuroobi shouted, he didn't look any better than his captain and was filled with bleeding claw marks all around his body. Coby who was about to jump on his again, was caught by him. "Get away from me you brat." With that, he threw him towards Sanji.

The Chief was a bit surprised but was able to catch the boy. "Easy there, pinky." He said catching the boy with ease and getting him down. He then looked at Kuroobi and whistled, "You did a number on him…"

"Uh… thanks," Coby said, being able to catch his breath.

"…and I also saw your lousy attempts to copy my kicks." Sanji said, making the boy winch. "We will have to work on those…" he patted the boy, making the boy smile.

Luffy would have found the whole sibling bonding scene heartwarming if there wasn't a killer shark on land.

"Don't ignore me, human." Arlong jumped from Sanji's side with his teeth out, and this time with Coby being in front of his he wasn't able to avoid the attack. And stopped it with his hand, which Arlong bit down on.

A cracking sound occurred, as Sanji became wide-eyed, by the sheer force of Arlong's bite, Sanji's exoskeleton cracked. "Uh…" the cook screamed.

Coby was horrified by what he saw and attacked Arlong with his claws out.

But Arlong squatted Coby like a fly, who flew off into the pool, his jaw still on Sanji's arm. "Take a dive shorty…"

"Diable Jambe…. Flanchet Strike." Sanji delivered a powerful kick to Arlong which freed him from the shark's jaw.

He winched at the pain, more so, when he saw that a set of Arlong's teeth were still on stuck his arm. Sanji gritted his teeth and removed them from his wound. His hand was all mangled up, but he wasn't that worried. It would fix itself soon, but he was surprised that someone in the east blue was able to crack his exoskeleton. But then again he was his father's failed experiment.

He quickly shook his head and looked to his side. He was more worried about Coby…

"Oi, focus on fighting Arlong," Luffy called out. "Finish off your opponent. Usopp go save Coby."

"What me?" The long-nosed gasped a bit afraid, the pool was littered with unconscious or dead fishman.

"Well, aren't you a brave warrior of the sea?" Luffy questioned.

"Uh… yeah, I will save him." As if he forgot his fears he dived into the water trying to save the kid.

"Like I will let you." Kuroobi also dived down into the water.

"No, you won't," Luffy said, throwing his chain into the water that tangled around the Fishman, before he fished him out of the water on their side.

"Uh…" the Fishman grunted.

"Gin finish him off."

"With pleasure captain," Gin said, spinning his tonfas with a cruel grin on his face. "I also been itching for a fight, hope Coby didn't beat all the fun out of you..."

On the other side, Sanji and Arlong also started their battle. Some would think Arlong might have the advantage now, but now… the last attack set off Sanji. And this time he didn't hold anything back. But Arlong wasn't going to lose either.

"Flambage Shot… Frites Assorties… Diable Mouton Shot…" with powerful moved he shot Arlong into the sky, before he jumped himself and started spinning with his legs on fire. "Concassé…" with that he did an axe kick on the Arlong's head as it sunk into the Fishamn's shoulder, cracking from pressure as blood and water leaked out of Arlong's head.

With that Arlong smashed into the ground and suddenly his body started sweating an inhuman amount of water and blood, almost drowning his now dead body… So that's why the pill was still experimental. He would need to get his hand on them, if in the near future some Fishman joined his crew.

And at the same time, Gin finished off Kuroobi and Usopp got Coby out of water.

Luffy smirked, his crewmates are surprisingly component. Well, with them by his side, he would be able to accomplish his dream. With that, the whole ordeal with the Arlong pirates were over.

Just after the fight with Arlong, the villagers came to Arlong Park with whatever they had on hand. Pitchforks, knives, shovels… It seemed Nojiko wasn't able to convince the villagers that they were in the safe hands of the straw hat pirates.

They had gathered to finally stand up against the Fishman pirates. But when they came it was all over, some couldn't even believe it… but then a few villagers recognized Luffy as being Mario and cheered for his victory. Totally forgetting that he called himself a pirate beforehand.

Luffy on the other hand became depressed enough to not retort them. Drawing circles on the ground. Nami and the others didn't even bother and went along with the celebration.

Of course, that was, after tying all the alive Fishman so that none of them would try to escape. They had enough Fishman for the rest of their lives.

And now that all the celebration was done, Luffy went back to check back on Zoro and the ship.

Coby and Usopp tagged along with him. While Gin and Sanji was helping the village prepare for the celebration. Kuina went on her own way to train a bit, to work on a few moves.

When Luffy reached Zoro's location he could see him fighting all out with Sparky. He seemed to be on the loosing end, but the man was presenting… they were working on making flying slashes now that Zoro knew how to cut steel.

Flying slashes required the sword to be vibrating in a certain frequency that was similar to cutting steel. A master swordsman could send flying slashes without creating any sounds… contrary to popular beliefs, it's not the wind pressure that created wind slashes. But the frequency made the air pressure required enough to use wind slashes.

Now Zoro was using Sparky's mastery over the tempest kicks to learn about flying slashes. Luffy had no doubt that Zoro would be able to master that as well.

In his opinion, Zoro should also learn Seimei Kikan to how to use his muscles properly. Hmm… the next time when all of his crew was on board he would introduce all of them to the rokushiki techniques. That would bolster their strength. Though they would need to hide the techniques in front of marines if they didn't want any trouble…

Seeing Zoro and Sparky duke it out also encouraged Coby and Usopp. They all wanted to grow stronger to accomplish their dreams. Not wanting to disturb both Zoro and Sparky the trio left them, before going towards where the Going Marry was.

But Nojiko came running to them… "Luffy it's the ship…"

The group of Luffy, Nojiko, Coby and Usopp rushed towards the Going Marry and found Johnny and Yosaku looked a bit injured. They had bullet wounds on them… still fresh.

Luffy was a bit pissed, looking at the bullet wounds on Johnny and Yosaku's body. "What happened to you?" he didn't like seeing his friends injured. Also, he was annoyed that someone attacked their ship which was still at the middle of the jungle far away from the shore.

"Marines." Jhonny said, "But we captured them big bro." He said, winching from the throbbing bullet pain. The wounds were still bleeding out…

Coby said worriedly. "We should patch up those wounds… the village has some doctors who can look at this stuff, professionally."

"Nah, don't worry about us." Yosaku said, flexing his biceps winching from the wound on his shoulder. "Ow…"

"Coby bring them to the doctors…" Luffy sighed, "So, where are they?"

Jonny pointed at the back of the ship where three marines were tied up broken and beaten. And Luffy recognized one of them from the series.

"Well, if it isn't Captain Nezumi of the Marines," Luffy said, slapping the man awake. "Now, tell me why did you do it?"

"I'm sorry, but Captain Kuro was scary and threatened me… so I had to let him escape." Nezumi blurred out, his face was swollen and it seemed that he couldn't see clearly because of the wounds. And he seemed to still be dazed.

"Not that answer I was looking for…" Luffy mumbled dumbfoundedly.

"You did what?" Usopp said, grabbing the marine by the collar. "You let that monster escape after we did all the work on beating him up."

"Uh… I'm sorry. I promise I didn't take a bribe to set him free… Okay, maybe I did take some money, but hey, I know where he might be… but let's cut a deal. And I will share half of what he gave me…" Nezumi said… finally snapping out of daze. "Hey, who are you guys? I will have you know I'm an honored marine…"

But he was cut off by a punch by Usopp, knocking him out. Wow, the training really did build up his strength. The boy seemed to be pissed… "Luffy, we have to get to Captian Kuro before he can harm anyone else." he was also worried that Kuro might attack Kaya later. He should have finished him there…

Coby also gritted his teeth. This was why he gave up his dream of becoming a marine.

"Hey, I recognized that rat…" Nojiko was the one to speak.

"Of course, you would…" Another marine spoke, he also seemed to be awake. "Before I got entangled in this shit… I was in charge here to investigate him and the 16th Branch in the East Blue… he's not only been working with pirates like Kuro, Alvida, and corrupt captain Morgan… he's also the reason Arlong was able to stay out of the marine's radar for years. I'm ashamed to say it as a fellow marine."

By his clothes, the man looked like Nezumi's coronaries. But the honesty in his voice and his determination said otherwise.

"And who might you be?" Luffy asked. "Another marine one Arlong's pay list."

"Never! I'm a marine investigator, came here to investigate under the orders of Captain Smoker…" he said. "But it seems that I'm stuck here… with this little shit. You are the hero Mario, are you not?"

Luffy was about the refuse the claim, but wisely kept shut and let the marine continue. One look at the Gong Marry's flag and all doubt would be cleared, but… Nami had pulled the flag of the previous night, not wanting the villagers to accidentally attack the ship. So, it just looked like an ordinary merchant vessel.

"We are sorry… and I'm especially sorry that the crook Nezumi here tried to loot your ship. I tried to stop him, but I'm a rank below him… so I couldn't do anything." he said, "Please untie us… we will take our leave. Nezumi here will face justice after I bring him to Captain Smoker."

"Like we would believe a marine…" But Usopp was cut off.

"Oh, yeah, thanks for saving me back then," Jhonny said cutting off. And looking at Luffy, "Big bro… he saved me from one of the gunshots that would have ended me… I don't think he's lying."

"Well, you have my thanks." Luffy said, before looking at Jhonny and Yosaku, "Then why did you tie him up?"

"We just wanted to be careful." Both of them said. Well, that was smart of them at least.

"Well, you have my thanks." Luffy said, before looking at Jhonny and Yosaku, "Then why did you tie him up?"

"We just wanted to be careful." Both of them said. Well, that was smart of them at least.

Luffy sighed uniting the man. With his observation haki, Luffy was able to tell if people was lying or not… a trick he learned from Sparky.

Anyway, now that the marine was freed. But he only united the honest marine and the other one, Nezumi was still tied up.

"You can go… that's not my problem," Luffy said, before pointing at Nezumi. "But he stays here with me… I need him to bring back Captain Kuro… I did collect his bounty, well, at least they did." Jabbing his thumb behind him where Usopp and Coby was. "So, we will finish the job. You can have him later."

The honest marine looked at Luffy intensely, before sighing. "You do have the reputation for being a hero… so I can't do nothing… not that I would be able to free him off your hand. But as a marine… I also need a favor from you."

Luffy raised an eyebrow. "And what's that?"

"Please help us capture Arlong…"

"Oh, he's dead." Luffy said, waving him off the marine's jaw was on the floor. "We took care of him and his crew… we were just about to cash in his bounty… you can check it yourself. Also, take all the rest of the crew with you… hope they don't escape."

The honest marine looked at Luffy with respect. "So that's why you are called a hero…" Luffy's eyebrow twitched a bit, but he didn't interrupt. "But I have to ask are you really related to Garp."

Luffy nodded. "Yup, he's my grandpa… speaking of him… isn't he in the east blue now… he usually comes here this time around."

The honest marine nodded. "Uh… yes. He's in the east blue with his ship… Captain Smoker was once under his command and Admiral Aokiji… but of course you would know that." the man said, "I still can't believe I'm seeing the grandson of the marine hero… He's my idol!" For a moment he broke his stoic expression before coughing.

"Shishishi… well, grandpa is cool, not gonna lie. Anyway, let's get all the pirates to your ship."

With that Luffy dumped all the rest of Arlong's crew to him, and transported theme into the ship they brought here.

"You know you might be a hero… but you are still holding a marine captain as a hostage." The honest marine huffed, Luffy was of course keeping Nezumi for the time being. He was also keeping him here because of some other reasons. "But I will turn a blind eye to him… try to keep him alive when you come by Logue Town when you come to collect Arlong's bounty."

The honest marine still thought Luffy to be the Mario the hero. And the rubber boy didn't correct his mistake. With this, he wouldn't need to worry about the rest of the Arlong crew being the village as they would be safely escorted to Smoker.

Luffy grinned. "Pleasure doing business with you."

"You make it sound like I'm dealing with a pirate." The honest marine gave a short laugh. Making all the nearby crewmates of the straw hats sweatdrop.

After all the Arlong pirates were cleared up, it was time to relax a bit. They were planning to start the search on Kuro tomorrow. Luffy would have stayed for a few more days, but he needed to catch Kuro, who might be anywhere in the east blue, and then also continue his journey.

He also needed to be on time for a few events. Such as the Alabasta arc. He didn't want to doom a kingdom, just because he was a bit late.

Luckily they had a way to make their ship twice as fast. It was the Momoo the sea king, but the problem is, he was nowhere to be seen. Of course, Luffy and Sparky was able to sense that Momoo was under the sea hiding.

And Hatchan was the only Fishman that didn't get arrested. And he might be able to bring out the sea king out of the sea. Though for now, he was still unconscious.

But anyway, after the Arlong Pirates were gone, the villagers threw a party in celebration. And Luffy would never say no to Sanji's cooking.

"You know Luffy… it's still a dream for me… now that the Arlong pirates are no more… I don't know what to do?" Nami said, sighing as she looked at the people partying.

"Well, be my navigator of course." Luffy said, "Why… you don't want to draw the map of the world?"

Nami blinked. "How did you…" but then she looked at Nojiko who was having fun with the villagers. "She told you didn't she… well, I don't know if I meant to be a pirate and all…"

"After thinking over things… No… no sorry. You can't be a pirate… unfortunately." Luffy sighed.

Nami felt as if her world shook… he wasn't being serious was he. She was actually just playing around, of course, she wanted to join the crew. But before she could speak someone cut her off.

"You can't do that, captain… she will be best pirate navigator in the world!" Sanji said with confidence, as she presented a plate full of grilled meat in front of Nami.

"No!" Luffy said, before grabbing Sanji by the shoulder, "We need to talk, hold onto the plate for me." With that, he passed the plate of roasted meat to Nami, before walking a few distance off, and saying something, "Look at her… She can never be a pirate, because there is no treasure in that chest."

"You know I can hear you right?" Nami said, she felt even more roasted than the roasted meat she was carrying.

"Captain!" Sanji gasped, "How can you?"

"Sanji… Sanji… Sanji… you have yet to learn, my friend. There is a quote I have read." he said wisely, with glasses on and a fake beard, which he suddenly got from somewhere. He was even running his hand down his beard wisely as he spoke. "If she's flat, and has no cake, her sister you shall take," Luffy said, spinning his finger and pointing at Nikojo.

"Why you..." Nami said, but she was cut off.

"Don't say that captain, she will grow soon." Sanji seriously nodded. Nojiko was laughing her perky ass off.

*Bam

Only the cook was on the ground. Observation Haki never failed Luffy… yet.

Nami grumbled before clicking her tongue going away. Muttering something to herself. Of course, he would make fun of her developing chest. But she was also glad it was a joke. She already felt like a part of the crew... but her sister on the other hand...

"I'm sorry Luffy, but I would rather stay here… in the village. Now that Arlong's gone… we will need to stay together to fix the village." She said, "It's a good thing that you didn't destroy the Arlong Park, there are a lot of stuff we can sell to get some extra cash for the village."

Luffy just smiled. Sometimes it was honestly good being a hero.

"So you want me to join the crew?" Hatchan asked, a bit of worry, he was now bandaged up and awake. "You do know… your crew was the reason Arlong and most of my crew is either dead or in the hands of the marine."

"Yes, but your crew did act all evil and enslaved a whole portion of the population…" Luffy shrugged. "Well, I'm not telling you to permanently join me… no. I'm telling you to lend me some help with your sea king friend. Momoo was it, not. You both can help us cross the first part of the grandline, and be on your dandy way to the fish-man island. Bud in the meantime if you want to stay in the crew I wouldn't mind. It will make the travel faster and you will also be able to repay Nami's debt."

"Nami's debt… but I apologized to her." The Fishman said. "And wouldn't she mind if I join her on the journey…"

Luffy shook his head, "I spoke to her beforehand, she would tolerate you… unlike everyone you weren't so bad… but it doesn't matter if you apologized or not. Your crew was the reason why she lost her mother… so she is still angry about it… but don't you want to show her that all fishman aren't monsters? Don't you want to break the circle of hatred… Wouldn't your late queen and Fisher Tiger want that?" Luffy said, "And who knows if you act right, she might even become your friend."

Hatchan didn't say anything, and thought for a moment. What the straw hat boy was saying certainly had merit. Now that he looked through what they did, over the years, they acted just like the celestial pigs that they hated most.

Hatchan always didn't agree with Arlong's superiority complex… but even then they grew up in the same streets and considered each other brothers. It was certainly hard that Arlong was now no more… but he also looked up to Fisher Tiger and Jinbie, both wouldn't want happened. Even the late queen gave her life trying to make peace between the humans and fishmans. He had to set it right.

So it was obvious what he needed to do. He would make it right… and won't let Arlong's deeds stain the name of Fishmans.

"I will do it." Hatchan said. "But I will let you know… I'm not part of your crew… I will help you travel through the first half of grandline… but after that Me and Momoo will leave. Got that."

Luffy grinned. "Well, welcome aboard. Shishishi…"

There were a few reasons why he wanted Hatchan on the ship. First was the knowledge of Fishman Karate… while Hatcahn mainly used swords he should be able to teach the basics of Fishman Karate. If not then no problem.

Sparky should also know some of the basics after watching Kuroobi and the other Fishman.

The other reason is also bringing in Jinbe later. Luffy would try his best to stop the war from happening. He didn't want Ace to die. And if that's the case then, he might not even meet Jinbe… let alone invite him to the crew.

And if the war doesn't happen, Whitebeard would probably be alive, then he might even join the Whitebeard pirates, after Warlord system was abolished, which he didn't want.

Also, Hatchan would also be helpful in controlling the sea king, it would cut their journey time by half the time. They might even be able to explore more islands that way.

Taming another sea king would take time and in nights when he wasn't looking the creature might get other ideas. But with Hatchan and Momoo it wouldn't be that much of a problem.

Luckily Nami wasn't opposed to the idea of Hatchan joining the crew, she actually liked the Fishman. As Hatchan would help her get out of trouble many times with Arlong. So it wasn't all bad.

For now, they would need to hunt down Captain Kuro… he really should have killed him the first time. A mistake. But you learn along the journey.

Also now that they had Captain Nezumi, it shouldn't be that hard to finding the pirate unless he flees to the other blues. Speaking of Captain Nezumi, the man also had a lot of treasures, and a devil fruit stacked in one of the islands… he was planning to retire soon from his corrupt Marine life.

But now Luffy would be able to get those as well. All in all, it wasn't all bad to take a slight turn in their journey.

The Going Merry had been stocked with everything the group would need until they reached the Grand Line. Arlong Park had been pillaged by the people and everything of value taken to help rebuild the towns of the island.

To remember her adopted mother, Nami had asked Luffy if she could take some tangerine trees with them. He had readily given her what she wanted, him, Sanji, and a slightly forced Gin doing most of the heavy lifting.

Kinda was enjoying her tea and cake break, while Zoro and Sparky were taking a nap. Usopp was tinkering with his gun adding new features and removing some.

One of those features were adding led bullet to his arsenal and more firepower to his guns. Now his gun should be able to kill. Luffy didn't suggest anything. It seemed Kuro's escape hit him quite hard.

The other members also did their work.

The sea king Momoo was tied with the ship, but was keeping itself underwater, until they left the island. Hatchan was also in the water as he didn't want to scare the villagers.

Now, every resident of Cocoyashi Village but one was on the docks to wave goodbye to the Straw Hat Pirates. The villagers were getting annoyed, however. Where was Nami?

"Set sail!" they heard the woman of their thoughts yell. She was running towards them.

"You heard her!" Luffy called. "Let's go!"

"She's gonna leave without letting us thank her!" one villager realized. They tried to stop her, but it was too late. She rushed through the crowd, passing by each person one by one.

When she reached the end of the dock, the thief leaped off as hard as she could. Luffy's arms stretched, wrapping around her waist and pulling her in. Setting her down, as the girl then lifted the hem of her shirt, allowing all of the wallets and purses that she'd just stolen to tumble to the deck.

"What?"

"My wallet's gone!"

"She took my purse!"

"You damn thief! We'll miss you!"

Nami didn't turn around, or cry, or say goodbye. They sailed away, the voices of the townspeople echoing in the wind.

The ship sailed as Momoo pulled the Going Marry with great speed towards the south side of the east blue. Their destination was Sakura Island, one of the most beautiful islands on the east blue. A tourist spot like the Goa Kingdom.

"You sure Captain Kuro will be there?" Luffy asked the now tied-up marine, "If you lie, you will be fed to the sea king…"

The sea king in question looked back towards the marine, making Nezumi shiver in fear. "I'm sure he will be there… that's far as I know… I had my contacts there on the island, they said one person who looked similar to Kuro is trying to use the island's ships to cross to the North Blue. And that ship will reach the island in a week."

Luffy squinted his eyes, "I will take your word for it, but I find it really suspicious that you have all your treasures stored on that same island."

Usopp on his side also frowned, "You aren't trying to set us up, or anything like that are you…" he said, posting the barrel of his wooden gun on the man's forehead.

The marine gulped, "It's a coincidence…" he said. "I would never think about it."

Luffy hummed. The marine showed no signs of lying, so he told Gin to take him to the down floors and gag him till further questioning.

The tonfa user nodded and rough-handled him to downstairs.

Luffy patted Usopp's back, "Don't worry, we will get Kuro… that bastard won't live this time…"

Usopp nodded. "It will still take three days to travel there… I'm just worried that he might leave the east blue and come back later to harm Kaya and the villagers." He said, clenching his fist, "I wish I was then strong and mature enough to finish him off."

Luffy patted his back, "Hey, it's not like you… and we all make mistakes." He said, Usopp wasn't his usual self after Nezumi mentioned Kuro again. The news that Kuro escaped was long revealed in the Baratie, but then, they didn't know where Kuro was, and planned to search for him a bit, before going onto the grandline.

But now that they had a lead on Kuro, they could go there and finish him off. Luffy also viewed it as a chance to mature his weak-willed friend. Showing mercy to scums like Kuro would only bring disaster… and people needed to learn that. Not all men deserve second chances…

But then again it's not about second chances… what about the people that scum killed… what about them… they won't be able to get a second chance. It seemed that the prison system was flawed in both worlds.

This would be a huge experience for people like Coby and Usopp who still view the world childishly.

Luffy hummed now that the journey has started and most of the crew had been gathered he called all of them out. "Guys, everyone out… I have something to say!" Luffy shouted before jumping towards the head of the Going Marry, bringing all of their attention.

"Captain, you called?" Gin said, coming out of the room, along with Johnny and Yosaku. Yup, now they were part of the crew.

They were strong enough to contend with Coby and had good teamwork working together. And also they had some good talent for Semi Kaiken. So when they asked to join the crew Luffy happily accepted them.

But he told them to always hide from the Marines and not be seen with the Straw Hat Pirates. (Even though they weren't labeled as a pirate crew, yet… but they would be soon.) His reason… simple.

Other than notorious pirates, small-time pirates could be easily dealt with them and Johnny and Yosaku would be able to cash them to local Marine Bases to cover their fees. Of course, the Straw Hat pirates would take down the notorious pirates for recognition and bounty.

Luffy wanted a good income source… and before going to Skypia, he needed money to buy rare materials and even devil fruits if he got the chance. And that required money.

Even though Luffy roughly had over a hundred million in bellies, he needed more if he wanted to buy good stuff along the journey. And bounty hunting would provide that.

"You called…" Nami came out of the Navigating room.

Hatchan who was on the top of the sea king also looked towards Luffy. But he didn't say anything… he was still feeling a bit hesitant in a crew full of humans.

"You called Cap? Need more food?" Sanji said still having a pan in hand, tossing egg rice with perfection. He was trying to cook a new dish with the local vegetables he collected from Nami's village.

"No, thank you, Sanji." Luffy said, "I will take you up on that offer later… for now, I'm here to discuss about this." Heading it the cook put the pan back in the stove before returning. Luffy took out a thick book into the air, and pointed at it.

"The Rokushiki techniques…" Zoro who woke up from his sleep read the title. Sparky who was also taking a nap yawned, but was a bit interested.

"Wait, aren't those the techniques only Marines are able to use?" Kuina asked.

Sanji snapped his fingers, "I was sure I heard of that somewhere…"

"Well, yes… this is the Roushiki techniques… and this book contains how to learn those techniques…" Luffy said, "Sparky, if you would be kind enough to demonstrate."

The monkey suddenly disappeared from his spot and landed right on Luffy's shoulder. To the untrained eyes, it looked like he teleported there. But there were more than enough people in the crew who could barely follow Sparky's movement. "That is what you call Soru… a leg-based technique, where you kick the ground a total of ten times or more to gain sudden speed."

Kuina blinked. "Wait, this is similar to Captain Kuro's technique…"

Luffy nodded. "Yup… I think he was able to steal the Soru from the marines. But he might also discover it himself." He said, "It grants a lot of speed, but without mastering it, you will be like Kuro… who couldn't change directions with it and couldn't even follow his own movements."

The others nodded.

"Sparky."

The monkey nodded on his shoulder and jumped into the air, kicking the air below going a few steps. "Gekkoo." He tried to say 'Geppo' but his vocal cord was still underdeveloped to fully speak. But he was getting there.

Luffy was a bit excited at the prospect of a talking monkey. Anyway…

"That is what you call Geppo… or Sky Walk… some of you have already seen me using it. It works by kicking the air… Like how in Soru, you kick the ground ten times… here you use that ten times strength in one step to make yourself airborn and stay afloat by constantly doing it. Some of you might already have the necessary leg strength to perform the technique, and after a few tries you might be able to use it."

The others nodded, Sanji looking eager on that technique.

"Next is Tekkai or Iron Body… like the name suggests it makes your body as strong as Iron," Luffy said, pointing his finger gun at Sparky and firing a few shots.

The monkey tensed his muscles and crossed his six arms tanking them with ease. And he was even able to stay in the same place with Geppo while using it.

"An untrained user can only make all of his body go Tekkai at once. And won't be able to use any movements when doing it. But a master user like Sparky and me can do it while moving. It's similar to Sanji's exoskeleton." The chef in question blinked. Luffy added. "Next is Rankyaku or Tempest Kick…"

Sparky who was still in air, kicked his leg in a horizontal swipe which traveled towards Luffy, who backhanded it into the sea.

"Like how a swordsman is able to use wind blades generated from sword strikes, one can also do it without swords but only his legs." Luffy said, "Sparky can even do it with all six of his arms at once."

And that made Hatcahn really interested. He also used swords, but most of the times, he would lose his swords mid-battle, but if he could learn that it would be helpful even while he was unarmed. And he also felt a bit of similarity with Sparky, being a fellow six-armed and all.

Sanji was also interested, he needed a ranged attack. And maybe he would able to combine his flames with it. Who knows…

"The next is… Shigan or finger pistol." Luffy said making a jabbing motion with his hand while his index finger was outstretched. "You literally jab your finger hard enough that your fingertip acts like a bullet, piercing your enemy. Skillful users can also make air bullets out of it, by meshing the concept of Tempest Kick together with a finger pistol." Usopp was interested in it. "And you see I created my own version of finger pistol, by using the rubbery element of my powers."

Luffy then again shot multiple shots at Sparky, who this time loosened up his body like paper and avoided the shots.

"Like how Tekkie is hardening your body, by flexing your muscles. Kami-e is doing the opposite, by making your muscles like paper that avoids getting cut or pierced by anything… both technique falls under Seimi Keiken. Where one can control the full parts of his body." Luffy said, looking at Johnny and Yosaku who gasped in the realization that this was what Luffy was speaking about. They knew they could do some unusual stuff with their bodies, like being more flexible and recovering fast from injuries, but it seemed that they were unconsciously using that technique.

"And lastly…" Luffy positioned both his hands forward and blasted pressurized air from them. The crew was wide-eyed when it completely obliterated a giant rock that they were passing by, leaving only dust. "Rokuogan… this is an advanced form of all of the techniques combined… and if you are able to master Finger Pistol, Seimi Keiken and Tempest Kick, you will be able to do it."

Luffy then raised one arm and blasted it again. "I can do by one arm, and if I try, maybe with my legs too…"

"Now that all the crew has gathered you all will start by learning one or two of the techniques… but first you will need to have physical conditioning to get your body to that certain strength," Luffy said. "The training might be hard, but you will gain something valuable from it. Any questions?"

Coby raised a hand.

"Yes, Coby."

"Captain… uh… where did you get those techniques? And won't we get in trouble from using them, in front of marines?"

Luffy blinked. "Yup, I actually forgot, but you should try to not use them in front of marines… they might actually send Cipher Pol if they sniff out what we have." He chuckled, but it made Coby pale a bit. "But don't worry, in the grandline, it's not uncommon for pirates to be seen using one or two of the Rokushiki. The Marines are corrupt enough to sell them in the black market… but you will be marked if they know you can use them. Maybe use it like how I do, my version of the finger pistol is different enough that the Marines won't suspect that I learned it from their version of the finger pistol… heck one might even think I have some air related devil fruit. I also got this book from the black market with some contacts I have there…"

Coby nodded. Such powerful techniques… and corrupt marines sold them in the black market. It was a good thing that he joined the straw hats not the marines… their rot seems to spread everywhere.

"Any more questions?" Luffy asked. And this time Kuina raised her hand. "Yes?"

"For a blade user like me, I find all of them very interesting… but I was hoping to learn Haki…"

Luffy sighed. "There is no easy way to say it… but I will be blunt. You aren't strong enough to learn Haki. Maybe Observation Haki… and I can train you with Usopp and Coby here who also might have talent in that aspect, but for Armament, you need to have more willpower… which in my case I gained when I was stronger enough. But strength isn't required to unlocking armament… some people have just more willpower than others. Unlocking Armament was even tricky for me… its been what only six to seven months since I have unlocked it. I don't know if I will even be able to help make Zoro unlock it… he might not have the strength but his willpower is already there… So, for now, if you want to learn about Observation Haki, join Coby and Usopp."

The girl nodded, thiking about his words.

Zoro was also surprised that he had a talent for that… all this time he seemed to think he was lagging behind but he might be able to catch up with this…

Luffy observed Zoro's reaction and didn't say anything. Before joining the crew… scratch that, just before the fight with Mihawke, Zoro's will wasn't even close to unlocking Armament. But it seemed fighting a powerful opponent and being exposed to two different Conquers Haki at the same time, made his 'will' grow like weed.

Now that he had observed Luffy had first-hand in experience in seeing such sudden growth. So that's why Garp always said that battle is the best learner in gaining strength. Zoro was the prime example of that.

Internally he was a bit excited… Zoro's character always had a certain charm of coolness to it. I mean who wouldn't like a badass swordsman that had an undying will. So that's why Luffy was excited with how fast Zoro might grow.

Luffy then also remembered something, "Nami… you might also have some talent in Observation so you should also try it out. Imagine how much more you can steal if you know where the treasures are…" Luffy joked, but it seemed that Nami already started fantasizing about it. Her eyes already turning into belly. "But we will also have to get you some strength or at least speed in case you ever get into trouble and need to escape."

"Hmm… Zoro, you might have a talent for Armament Haki… so maybe fighting me or the others that are stronger then you might make you unlock the ability." Luffy said, it made the green-headed swordsman nod. "But then again, we will have to get you new swords… your replacements won't help you that much in that aspect."

Zoro snorted he now was using three regular katanas, nothing too fancy, but they were even lesser quality then his previous swords. He had to get new ones.

"For now, let's all focus on training and getting your physical strength up a few ranks… Even I took a total of two years in fully mastering all the Rokushiki techniques… even talented Marine or Cipher Pol agents spend a lifetime mastering those abilities… so I will suggest you pick one technique at a time and master it. I want our crew to be strongest, and that means in all aspects." Luffy said, before turning to Hatchan. "That means you too Hatchi… you might need some training if you want to survive the grandline with our crew."

The Fishman moved his head away. "I'm not even a part of your crew." He mumbled.

Luffy didn't say anything just grinned. The Fishman didn't refuse the training so that was good.

The Going Marry sailed through the water with great speed with the help of the sea king pulling. Nami had to only adjust the route a little bit… and it certainly cut down the travel time.

Two days had already passed it would take another day to get to Sakura Island. The crew was mostly training their ass off in the two days. And it certainly boosted their physical strength.

The growth was very noticeable and it wasn't just because of hard work. Even Luffy gained some strength. But only a tiny bit, but others improved very well. Their recovery speed was quite fast, that's why they could improve in a short time.

And it might be because of Sanji's cooking skills. While the members of the crew had yet to learn Seimi Keikan, Sanji's food could be easily absorbed into the body giving immediate effects.

Seimi Keikan is being able to control all parts of your body. One can even eat a tree log or dirt and extract calories from there if he uses the technique. Luffy had tried it once, eating no food for a month surviving off things that weren't considered food.

Huh… The things he did for the grind.

While his crewmates didn't master the technique to that extent —even Sparky wasn't able to do it, Johnny and Yosaku only knew the basics of it— they were able to get very nutritious food due to Sanji. Who knew having a good diet would be important?

It seemed that meat from sea kings was very dense in nutrition and the body wasn't able to fully absorb it. But with Sanji's cooking skills, they were able to do it.

So knowing this… Luffy made all of them work hard. But then again he wasn't like Garp or Bogard.

He was a man of the grind. But as a previous powerlifter and strength athlete, he knew that overtraining would bring bad results and bring hate towards hard work. So he placed the training sessions in a way where the crewmates were actually enjoying the hard work and gain results at the same time.

But it also made him jealous in a way… now there was no Garp to constantly fight against. He wasn't getting any stronger like he was used to.

He did get some strength after having the small clash with Hawkeye, but it wasn't that much. He was pretty much spoiled into fighting stronger guys, because of Garp. So he felt a bit depressed that he couldn't gain that much strength.

Even with Sparky's help gaining even a bit of power or speed was getting difficult. That's why he was going to take drastic measures.

The ship stopped in the middle of the ocean, and all the people on and off the ship were looking at Luffy. Even the sea king Momoo was looking at what Luffy was doing.

"Um… captain, are you sure about this?" Coby asked a bit scared of what Luffy was trying to do. The captain in question was tying a thick roped around his arms and waist.

"Don't even bother… I tried to talk him out of it for an hour now." Nami grumbled. "If something happens… I will be the gal, that told you so." She said sticking her tongue out.

Luffy shook his head, "You wouldn't understand the grind, woman. Now go on and make me a sandwich."

Nami snorted, ignoring the verbal retort. But she was honestly a bit worried herself.

"What you are doing is, certainly stupid captain," Kuina said, crossing her arms. "But then again I understand where your coming from."

Zoro also nodded. "Just don't get us lost in the sea, Luffy." He chuckled a bit, but stopped when everybody gave him a deadpan look. "What?"

"Of course something idiotic, Moosehead." Sanji snorted, which brought a tick on the swordsman's forehead.

"You want to go round, shitty-cook?"

"Heh, I'm gonna kick your ass like the last time." Sanji rolled up his sleeves sparks flying between them. "But it's on shitty-swordsman."

*bam

Both Sanji and Zoro were on the floor because of a certain navigator who didn't like the useless commotion.

"Hey! Sanji might be needed if the line is snatched, ya know." Luffy mused. In two days, Sanji was already able to get the basic concept of Soru down and even was able to use it in water… of course he named it Blue Walk.

But he was nowhere near mastering Geppo, or his version of it. But the fact that he learned it meant that he would eventually be able to master it.

He was also trying to learn the tempest kick. But the technique was still far from him… as the concept of air slash was a bit vague for non-weapon user like him. It was basically an unarmed version of air slash…

"But then again, Hatchi will save me if that happens…" Luffy mused.

The Fishman in question was this time on the ship and looking at Luffy weirdly. "Of course, I will… but are you sure you want to do this…" he said. Hatchi might not like Luffy that much, but he didn't have any animosity towards him. So he wouldn't stand by if he was in danger… how else was he going to prove that all the Fishman weren't all like Arlong. "Momoo can pull the ship just fine… I haven't seen any devil fruit users even able to move their body in water… let alone swim and pull a whole ass ship tied to his back."

The sea king in question was now untied and curiously looking at what the crew was doing. Sparky seemed to bond well with the creature as he sat on top of Momoo's head.

Luffy had to agree himself that it was certainly stupid. Pulling a full ship in water as devil fruit user wasn't something you should do.

But… Luffy was going to do it anyway. And besides he trusted his crewmates.

The years of training with sea stone and water training made him gain a bit of sea immunity to speak. Don't ask how, it just worked. Luffy didn't know if that was possible, but it seemd that overexposure to the sea made it such.

This world was definitely different from the original One Piece world. As he knew that even Jack who was Fishman couldn't swim in the ocean.

And here was Luffy… who was able to swim in the sea for a whole minute before the drawback from the energy-sapping would be too much and he needed would need a break. Luffy at the time did in a small lake, but he never tried it in the open sea… but now he could.

After starting his journey, Luffy hadn't tried breaking that record.

Sure he had a sea prism stone bracelet, that he wore while training with his crewmates. But now, it just sapped away his devil fruit power, not his strength. And it was still a good way to gain muscle mass without blocking in size.

"Swiming is a good exercise for speed and strength anyway, and add the drawback of the devil fruit into the mix. It's a total challenge." Luffy grinned.

"That's so Manly Captain!" Johnny cried while holding Yosaku.

"Our captain doesn't fear any challenge." Yosaku said… both former bounty hunters aweing at Luffy. As the sea was basically suicide for a devil fruit user. And Luffy was taking it as a challenge to do the impossible.

"Captain… I think you should still think about it." Coby muttered. After eating his fruit, he tried to take a bath once, but he almost drowned himslef at the time. So he was a bit worried about Luffy.

Luffy on the other hand was thrilled at the aspect of what he was about to do. Adrenalin was already pumping in his veins, he just couldn't wait.

"Shishsishi…" Luffy laughed, now that the rope was tied up, he jumped to the head of the Going Marry. "This is going to be fun. And don't you underestimate me, sea… In a few years, I'm going to be the strongest thing alive in this world! Whoohooo!"

*Splash

The rest of the crewmates hurried to the front of the ship just as their captain jumped into the water.

They were a bit worried when they didn't see Luffy resurface for a few seconds. Zoro and Sanji already got their sandals and shoes off along with their shirts, in case they needed to jump in save Luffy.

Gin on the other hand had absolute confidence in his captain as he focused on the water below. But Luffy was yet to show…

*Splash

The rest of the crewmates hurried to the front of the ship just as their captain jumped into the water.

Gin on the other hand had absolute confidence in his captain as he focused on the water below. But Luffy was yet to show… And even he was getting a bit worried.

But then suddenly the ship jerked forward a bit. As if someone was pulling it.

Nami was wide-eyed. "He's actually doing it…" she said fondly before sighing… "Why am I even surprised…"

And just like that Luffy started pulling the ship, and his head finally came out of the water as he gritted his teeth and used every ounce of strength to pull the ship. And after some time it gained a considerable amount of speed.

The crewmates calculated that it was half of Momoo's speed. Which was quite a lot, considering the sea gave any devil fruit user a huge debuff.

All of them watched and Nami had a small timer in her hand as she looked back at the clock. One minute had passed… and ten more seconds later the ship stopped moving forward, before slowing down and stopping.

Zoro and Sanji were about to jump into the ocean when Luffy's body was thrown out of the sea onto the deck, where he coughed out water with a huge grin on his face. "Thanks, Hatchi… Shishishi…" Luffy said, the adrenalin rush felt amazing… it truly felt great to be alive. "Nami's what's the time."

"One minute and ten seconds." She said, now relieved that her captain was back at the deck. But then again, it bugged her quite a bit why she was worrying about him so much…

"Whoohooo! A total of ten seconds increased… I have been getting stronger it seems." Luffy grinned, he then sat up suddenly with a huge grin on his face. "Let's do that a few more times… it's a good workout."

"What!" Nami grumbled. "Uh… forget it." She stood up, and walking into the navigating room. "I don't know why I worry about you in the first place." She mumbled to herself.

Luffy frowned a bit… it felt good that Nami cared about him. But he wouldn't stop because of her. In fact, if he isn't strong enough, who would be the one to protect her… well, her and the rest of the crewmates. Yeah… it's not like he had any feelings for her or anything.

"Sparky let's do it again," Luffy said jumping up and standing. "You count this time."

Sanji who was by his side, whispered as he looked between Luffy and Nami, back and forth. "Is he dense…"

"No, he's rubber," Gin answered, nodding to himself.

Sanji wanted to say something back, before shrugging it off. He had better things to do anyways.

Time passed and the sun was almost rising when the crew reached the Sakura Island. The Island looked quite beautiful, the pink color blending in with the crimson red of the sun rising…

No… looking closely, the famous Sakura Island was in a state of chaos. Trees and houses were on fire, it wasn't just the sunlight that brought the crimson color out.

People were fighting, some were fleeing… all that was happening near the port as well, where a few ships were docked. Those with enhanced senses, like Coby or Sanji or those with Observation Haki, could hear the people's fearful scream from here.

"Momooo, full speed ahead." Luffy ordered, Hatchan patted the beast as the sea king mooed and speed up as all the crewmates gathered on the ship for the upcoming island. Something was wrong here.

As they got near they could fully see what was happening, it seemed that a pirate crew decided to attack the island… but then looking closely, it seemed that two pirate groups were attacking each other. Pillaging the whole island in an unsynchronized chaos.

They could even see the pirate flags of the ships. One was of course of Black Cat Pirates the other was unrecognizable. It seemed that both pirate groups were fighting each other.

"We have to stop them." Coby said, one could see that the islanders were trying to flee from the area of chaos… the port was already destroyed, a few houses were on fire, a few ships were already broken. There were even dead bodies floating on the nearby water with red blood mixing with the water.

"And I sense Captain Kuro…" Luffy sighed after expanding his Observation Haki towards the island. He could sense three powerful auras. One was Kuro's the other might be the other pirate captain… then there was a third one… who had a very powerful aura. And it seemd that both Kuro and the other weak-willed pirate captain were both fighting against him, while their crew fought amongst each other.

"Its a good thing we came here… Usopp shoot a canon ball in the middle of the fight, it should stop the fight and introduce our arrival…" Luffy said pointing at where the main fighting was going on.

When Usopp observed closely he saw three people that were fighting against each other. Two against one. Usopp didn't say anything and quickly moved the canon toward the direction… aimed and shot.

And like the best aimer Usopp was it smashed into the pavement, near Kuro, and the whole fight for a moment.

The place went still for a moment as all heads snapped at the new arrival. And they were shocked to see that a sea king was pulling the ship…

"Hey, am I seeing things but is that actually a sea king." One of the pirate lackeys asked the other.

"I have no idea… but I hope it's not the marines… I just recently got out." The other said, "Who ever it is, if he can tame a huge ass sea king, I'm not gonna be here when the fight starts… first the insanely strong sailor, now this… I don't think the pirate life suits me."

The other lackeys that were once fighting against each other all thought the same. There were rumors that Garp was here in East Blue, and he was the boogyman for the pirates, they only hoped it wasn't him.

"Wait, are the marines already here?" Captain Kuro cursed. "But how did they get here so fast… the fight didn't even go for half an hour."

There was another burly guy, who was double the hight of Kuro, squinted his eyes, looking at the new arrival. He had an axe for a second hand and a metal mask to cover his face. He had blonde hair that made a afro on his head. "Look carefully, that's not a navy ship…." The man said, pointing at the flag. "It's a pirate ship."

"Oh, great another one." The third man grumbled, he was shirtless and a bit wounded, his most notable features were his huge forearms —one of which had an anchor birthmark— and a smokeless pipe that was on his lips. His body was littered with battle wounds that made him look like a veteran in of the sea. He had a small white hat and was wearing blue jeans with brown shoes. His choice of weapon was a unique anchor that he used more like a hammer. "I will take all of you at the same time. These hands can do more then hammer swords…"

The other two didn't say anything but cautiously looked at the man with huge forearms. The fight wasn't over yet… no it just got intense. But it also gave hope for the two of the other pirates, if the third pirate group joined in maybe they could take care inhumanly strong man.

But of course, things were going to be that easy.

More so when suddenly a figure dropped in between the three men. A straw hat, two naginata strapped to his back in a cross-shape, and unbuttoned shirt that showed a figure packed with muscles.

"Partying without me Kuro… Shishsishi." The cold laughter sent shivers down the spines of all the people around them.

More so for the people who recognized Luffy from his grown fame as the bounty-hunting hero. There were even rumors that he took down Arlong…

"Partying without me Kuro… Shishsishi." The cold laughter sent shivers down the spines of all the people around them.

More so for the people who recognized Luffy from his grown fame as the bounty-hunting hero.

The surrounding pirates gulped seeing Luffy. Why was a big shot that easily took down a man with a fifty million bounties, and Arlong here? This was just unreasonable… they even avoided where the so-called hero was last seen, —near the Conomi Islands— but now he was here.

"You know what… retiring is looking really appealing right now." One of the lackeys said.

Soon the other straw-hats jumped down from the nearby docked Going Marry. The first ones to drop down were obviously Zoro, Kuina, Sanji and Gin. Coby and Usopp were a bit hesitant, before calming down their nerves and getting down.

The lackeys were wide-eyed as they saw the people coming out of the ship, that was being dragged by a sea king. "Wait, is that the pirate Hunter Zoro… and the White Lady Kuina. Eh… who's the curly brows… maybe someone unimportant."

"Who said that!" Sanji said with a tick mark on his forehead.

"Heh, it seems that you aren't popular," Zoro said with a small smile.

"Why you…"

The lackeys of course ignored Sanji and looked at the others… "Wait… isn't that the man demon Gin… did he switch sides? Of course, he did… Then there's the kid and the long nose…" The other lackeys said, not to mention the huge sea king and the fishman who were looking at them coldly. "That's it… I'm out folks." With that, he dropped his sword and made a run for it.

Not that the pirate lackey could get that far as he was quickly shot by someone falling on the ground. A headshot by Usopp. Coby who was by his side blinked and gave the sniper an odd look, who the long-nosed pirate shrugged off.

"Hey…" The large fore-armed man called Luffy. "You with them, bub. Cause I'm gonna tell you… I won't let you pirate run wild in this island if the last thing I do…"

When Luffy looked at the figure with large forearms, his jaw almost dropped to the floor. "Y-you…"

While Luffy seemed to recognize the fellow, the other straw hats didn't. Well, except for a certain someone. It was Gin and he was tensed when he got near and saw the sailor. "Captain, be careful… he was the one that stopped the Krieg Pirates in Whisky Peak."

"Eh… never heard of him," Sanji said, crossing his arms. But he could tell that the man was strong. "Who's he anyway? Some kind of famous bounty hunter…"

"No, he's a former marine captain… after the encounter with him, we did some research, and turns out he was dishonorably discharged from his rank. If I'm not wrong the name is Anchor D. Popeye" Gin finished.

"Wait, you mean like the great sailor Popeye?" Coby asked. "Like Popeye the sailor man?" There were a few names Coby knew from old children's books, like the great lier Noland and Popeye the sailor man.

But unlike Mont Blanc Noland who was portrayed as a liar, Popeye was shown as a strong figure that could carry out inhuman strength feets. It was said that the man was strong enough to pull an island… but he always thought of them as stories… tall tales of the legend.

Gin nodded. "Yup, might be one of his ancestors or something. No, wonder he's strong. Real strong, shot down three of our ships throwing a full freaking building at us."

That made all the straw hats blink.

"…but he's clumsy. Krieg was able to get a drop on him… also he's kind of slow in movement." Gin said. "That's how we're able to escape him. Even if he's not a marine anymore… he still has a strong sense of justice, from what we know. Captain Luffy should look out in case he does something…"

"Hey, join my Crew!" Luffy finally said. And that made all the straw hats facepalm themselves. But why were they even surprised?

"…or he can invite him on the crew." Gin said nodding in understanding. "His skills will be very needed in the future." The others wanted to question the man for his undying loyalty but didn't. Almost all of their crewmates had quirks, they had to get used to it.

"What!" Anchor squinted one of his eyes… well, the other one has shut anyway. So he squinted one of his eyes. "I'm not joining any pirate crews… I may not be a marine anymore, but I won't fall that low… who are you anyway?"

Luffy grinned, he was a bit glad that someone didn't recognize him for Mario.

"Well, my name's Lu…" but he was cut off.

"Wait, aren't you the Hero of Dawn Island Mario?" Anchor said squinting at Luffy, mainly looking at his naginata.

'Maybe I spoke too soon.' Luffy internally grumbled. "As I was saying, name's Luffy… they got the name wrong."

"When did you become a pirate?" Anchor said ignoring Luffy's words.

"What? A pirate can't be a good guy? The last time I checked it's the Marines who lick the ass of self-entitled pigs on the red line." Luffy barked back.

Anchor winched, before gruffing. His early discharge was related to that. But he didn't want to think about it. He already set up a new goal. "I don't care anyway… I'm out on a mission to make the greatest sword in the world and study all their secrets... I just came here from the rumors of a broken Skillful Grade Blade here… but now I have to stop these damn pirates so they don't kill everybody on the island due to their stupid over some corrupt marine loot." the man grumbled. "Anyway, you with em? Cause I ain't afraid of you." He said cocking up his fists.

Luffy blinked. A Skillful Grade Blade… Zoro didn't have any good swords… maybe… This changes things. Luffy waved his hand, acting a bit normal. "No no… I'm actually here to stop them… you see I might be a pirate, but there's a reason everyone calls me a hero. But it doesn't matter either way, I'm here to stop them from causing any more destruction… so if you want I can give you a hand."

Anchor grunted, he didn't like taking help from a pirate, being a former marine, and the reason why both the pirates weren't dead was cause he wanted the civilians to desert the area.

And most of the blood on his clothes was from his enemies anyway. But he didn't refuse the help… he wanted to see why the young man was getting so much attention in the first place.

Luffy then looked at the two pirates that needed to be taken care of. "Well… well well, what do we have here… I'm very curious as to why both Captain Morgan, a former marine is joining hands with a scum like Kuro… but then again birds of the flock stick together don't they."

Luffy was a bit amused. While Anchor D. Popeye, wasn't the Popeye he knew from childhood, but the similarities were there. Those large forearms and the pipe was a hit back to the old days. This was certainly unexpected. Also, the other thing unexpected was seeing Kuro and Morgan here.

The others blinked, Zoro and Kuina narrowed their eyes when they recognized Captain Morgan. He seemed a lot different. He was still the tall man, but was much more slender… had a blonde afro that made him look quite different. And without his marine coat and in addition to his clothless upper body and face mask made him look quite different. But what made him certain that he was Morgan was his axe hand. That he was so famous for.

"Who's you punk?" Morgan growled. "I ain't afraid of a bounty hunter like ya anymore, now that I have my own devil fruit."

"Oh, you have eaten a devil fruit… and what might be," Luffy asked. Visiting this island might have not been all bad. Poor man might need to die… how sad.

Morgan grinned, "I have eaten the smooth smooth fruit… now no one can attack me. Dahahahaha…"

Kuro who was on his side grunted. He also wanted to get that fruit, with it no bladed weapon or sharp weapons would be able to harm him. All the attacks would slip through him.

The reason why both Kuro and Morgan were here on the island was that they had intel that Captain Nezumi often visited this place and had good connection to the island. So they came here to loot the island and try their luck to see if they could find anything.

And it seemed that when they attacked the island. Someone had listed a devil fruit to the black market to sell it off… so they both fought for the devil fruit. While Kuro was faster and tricker, by some odd luck Morgan was able to eat the fruit. Gaining the abilities of a smooth human.

It didn't make Kuro any less determined as he was willing to kill Morgan for taking the fruit. Morgan had not only quit the marines he was also able to gather a good crew of criminals under him once he broke out from Shells Town… with them around Kuro's own makeshift crew were having a hard time holding them off.

While Kuro's crew had the advantage, Kuro on the other hand was at a disadvantage against Morgan who was able to slip away from all of Kuro's attacks.

Their fight was going well, when suddenly the ex-marine popped in. The man was around the island and wanted to stop both their fight as people's livelihoods were getting destroyed because of the meaningless fight.

And Kuro and Morgan wanted to ignore him at first. But when they saw him take down their crewmates, Morgan and Kuro wanted to deal with him separately. But they soon came to the realization that Anchor was much stronger than he let on.

Easily able to take on both Morgan and Kuro at the same time. More so when he was able to damage Morgan with his sea stone-laced anchor. That's the reason why both of them were fighting him at the same time.