In the heat of battle, a younger Naruko stood amidst a group of pirates, her small frame belying the sheer force of her presence. Admiral Akainu watched her intently, his eyes cold and unyielding. Naruko's fists were wrapped in a shimmering aura of Haki, her mastery of the technique evident in every precise, powerful strike.
With each blow, pirates crumpled to the ground, groaning in pain. Naruko moved with fluid grace, her movements swift and merciless. One by one, the pirates fell until they lay in a heap, beaten and defeated, their cries of agony echoing across the training grounds.
As the pirates were tied up and led away, Naruko's gaze lingered on one of them—a young man who seemed different from the rest. His eyes were wide with fear, and there was a genuine look of regret on his face.
Naruko hesitated, then made her way over to Akainu, who stood like a statue, observing the aftermath. She tugged at his sleeve, her voice tentative. "Admiral, could we let that one go?" she asked, pointing to the young pirate. "He seems harmless enough now, and he claims he'll never act as a pirate again."
Akainu's expression remained stony as he regarded the young pirate. He stood silently for a few moments, his gaze hard and unyielding. Finally, he spoke, his voice cold and measured. "Very well, Naruko. But he will become your responsibility."
Naruko's eyes widened in surprise. She hadn't expected Akainu to agree. "Thank you, Admiral!" she exclaimed, her voice filled with relief and gratitude. She ran to the young pirate, her heart light with hope.
--
A week later, Naruko and Akainu arrived in a small town that had been raided by pirates. The devastation was clear—the buildings were in ruins, and the townspeople were visibly shaken. As they gathered information, Naruko's heart sank. She recognized one of the names mentioned by the townsfolk—the pirate she had freed.
Naruko stood before Admiral Akainu in his office of the ship, her heart pounding in her chest. The weight of the raid bore heavily on her shoulders as she prepared to deliver her report. The air was thick with tension, the distant crash of waves against the shore the only sound breaking the silence.
She took a deep breath, steadying herself. "Admiral Akainu," she began, her voice clear but strained with the weight of recent events. "I have come to report about the raid."
Akainu, standing with his hands clasped behind his back looking out of the window, turned to face her. His expression was as stern and unreadable as ever. "Proceed," he commanded.
Naruko swallowed hard, her mind racing back to the devastation she had witnessed. "A week ago, you allowed me to release a pirate, making him my responsibility. I believed he was different, that he had genuinely repented. But I was wrong."
She hesitated, the memory of the ruined town flashing in her mind. "Yesterday, we arrived at the village that had been raided. The destruction was immense, and the townspeople were terrified. As I gathered information, I learned that the pirate I freed was part of the attack. He led the raid."
Akainu's eyes narrowed, his gaze piercing through her. "And what will you do upon learning this?"
Naruko clenched her fists at her sides, her voice trembling slightly. "I will hunt him down. He betrayed my trust and caused suffering to innocent people."
There was a moment of heavy silence as Akainu regarded her with a cold, assessing gaze. Finally, he spoke, his voice hard and unyielding. "Naruko, you will have sixty days to find this pirate and bring him before me. If you fail, I will take over the hunt."
Naruko nodded, determination replacing her earlier fear. "Understood, Admiral."
Akainu continued, his tone stern and resolute. "My Marines will not help you fight him. They will assist you in locating him, but the capture is your responsibility alone. If I have to hunt him down, I will hold you accountable as well."
Naruko's heart sank, but she nodded again, accepting the gravity of her task. "I won't fail, Admiral. I will bring him back."
Akainu's gaze softened just a fraction, a rare glimmer of something almost like approval in his eyes. "Good. This is an important lesson about the nature of pirates. Trust is a luxury we cannot afford."
Naruko turned to leave, her mind already racing with plans for the hunt. She paused at the door, glancing back at Akainu. "Thank you for the opportunity, Admiral. I won't let you down."
Akainu nodded, his expression once again inscrutable. "See that you don't."
With renewed resolve, Naruko stepped out of the room, the weight of her mission heavy on her shoulders. She knew the path ahead would be fraught with danger and challenges, but she was determined to prove herself. The pirate who had betrayed her trust would be brought to justice, no matter the cost.
--
For many days, Naruko scoured the seas, her resolve unwavering. She tracked the pirate from port to port, her determination growing with each passing day. Her skills were tested to their limits, but she never gave up.
Naruko found the pirate. The battle was fierce, her Haki-infused strikes clashing with his desperate defenses. In the end, Naruko emerged victorious.
Naruko staggered into Admiral Akainu's office, her uniform drenched in blood, both old and new. Her face bore the marks of a fierce battle, cuts and bruises standing testament to the struggle she had endured. Clutched in her hand was the collar of an unconscious pirate, his body limp and battered from the confrontation.
With a final heave, Naruko threw the pirate's body at Akainu's desk, the sound echoing through the silent room. She stood tall, despite the pain wracking her body, and brought her hand up in a salute, her eyes unwavering as they met Akainu's stern gaze.
Akainu sat behind his desk, puffing methodically at his cigar. He didn't speak immediately, his eyes shifting between Naruko and the pirate sprawled on the floor. The silence stretched, heavy and oppressive, filling the room with an almost tangible weight.
Naruko remained silent, her breathing heavy but controlled. She waited, knowing that any show of weakness now would undermine the resolve she had fought so hard to maintain.
Finally, Akainu leaned back in his chair, the smoke from his cigar curling lazily into the air. "Pirates are nothing more than filthy liars, scum, and monsters," he said, his voice a low, rumbling growl. "Garp may have trained you well, but if you want to become a strong Marine, then this lesson was important for you to learn now while you are young."
Naruko nodded, her expression hardening. She had learned that lesson the hard way, and the weight of that knowledge settled heavily on her shoulders. She remained silent, absorbing Akainu's words.
Akainu leaned forward, his gaze intense and unyielding. "Remember this, Naruko. Trust is a luxury we cannot afford with pirates. They will betray you at the first opportunity, and mercy is not something they deserve."
With that, he reached into his desk and pulled out a small chest, pushing it toward Naruko. The chest was simple, unadorned, but the significance of the gesture was clear.
Naruko stepped forward, her movements slow and deliberate. She lifted the lid of the chest, her breath catching in her throat as she saw what lay inside. Nestled on a bed of velvet was a blue-colored Devil Fruit, its surface covered in swirling patterns.
She looked up at Akainu, her eyes wide with a mixture of awe and determination. "Is this...?"
Akainu nodded, his expression still stern. "The Water-Water Devil Fruit. You have proven your strength and resolve. This is your reward. Use it wisely, and never forget the lesson you have learned."
Naruko reached out, her fingers brushing against the fruit's cool surface. The power it represented was immense, and she felt a surge of determination flow through her. She lifted the fruit from the chest, cradling it in her hands.
"Thank you, Admiral," she said, her voice steady despite the tumult of emotions within her.
Akainu nodded, his gaze unwavering. "Go forth and fulfill your duty as a Marine. You have much to learn, but you have taken an important step today."
Naruko straightened, her resolve solidifying. She turned to leave, the weight of the Devil Fruit heavy in her hands, but the burden of the lesson she had learned even heavier. She knew the road ahead would be fraught with challenges, but she was ready. With the power of the Water-Water Fruit, she would become a force to be reckoned with, a true Marine who understood the cost of trust and the necessity of strength.
As she exited Akainu's office, the echoes of his words lingered in her mind, a constant reminder of the path she had chosen and the price she was willing to pay to walk it.
--
A knock on the door to her private room woke Naruko, with Iruka's voice muffled but clear. "Captain, breakfast is almost ready."
Naruko stirred in her large bed, her younger form sprawling comfortably across the ample space. She yawned and stretched, rubbing her eyes as she mumbled about the strange dreams she'd had. It took a moment for Iruka's words to fully register.
"FOOD!" she yelled, suddenly wide awake. She jumped out of bed, zooming around the room to get dressed with a speed that seemed almost supernatural. Within moments, she was out the door, her mind singularly focused on breakfast.
--
Kakashi sat calmly in Naruko's lounge, already eating his breakfast. The table was filled with delicious-looking food, the aroma filling the room. Iruka walked in, nodding to Kakashi. "I woke up the captain," he said, taking a seat and beginning to eat.
Kakashi glanced at a file sitting beside him but continued to enjoy his meal. Iruka noticed the file and was about to ask about it when the door burst open. Naruko, still in her kid form, dove towards the table, immediately shoveling food into her mouth with an intensity that made both men pause.
After a few minutes of her eating frenzy, Iruka finally got the chance to speak. "Kakashi, what's in the file?"
Naruko turned her head to Kakashi, a piece of meat hanging out of her mouth. She looked curious.
Kakashi picked up the report and handed it to Naruko. "It's an interesting report that came in from headquarters. I thought it might interest you."
Naruko swallowed the piece of meat, wiping her mouth with the back of her hand before taking the paper. She read the report in silence, her eyes widening slightly as she processed the information. "Is this true?" she asked, looking up at Kakashi.
Kakashi nodded. Iruka, looking confused, leaned over. Naruko casually handed him the report and returned to her meal with gusto.
Iruka read the report out loud. "Fishman pirate Arlong was defeated by rookie pirate Straw Hat Luffy."
Naruko's smile grew wider and wider as Iruka continued. "Luffy and his crew, the Straw Hat Pirates, have been wreaking havoc throughout the East Blue. They even had a clash with the Don Krieg Pirates at the Baratie. In order to nip this problem in the bud, a bounty of thirty million berries is being placed on Straw Hat Luffy."
As he finished, Naruko threw her arms up in the air, laughing joyously. "That's my little brother! Causing mayhem and destruction wherever he goes! Hahaha!"
Just then, a female Marine walked in, standing at attention. "Captain, we will be at Impel Down soon."
Naruko nodded, her laughter subsiding into a wide grin. "Thank you. Carry on."
The Marine saluted and walked out, leaving Naruko, Kakashi, and Iruka to finish their breakfast. The atmosphere in the room was buoyant, filled with a sense of pride and anticipation for what lay ahead. Naruko, despite her youthful appearance and insatiable appetite, was every bit the capable and fierce captain, ready to face whatever challenges awaited them.
--
The Red Death approached the imposing silhouette of Impel Down, the notorious underwater prison. The sea was calm, but the atmosphere on the deck was charged with tension and anticipation. The captured pirates, now a pitiful sight, were gathered up and brought to the deck as the ship reached the port of the prison. Chains clinked, and murmurs of fear filled the air as they were herded together.
Naruko, appearing to be around twenty years old, strode onto the deck with an air of authority. Her unique overcoat, crimson and lined with black fur, draped over her shoulders, giving her an imposing presence. Iruka and Kakashi followed closely behind her, their expressions serious and alert.
The ship creaked as it was secured to the port, and the gangplank was lowered. Naruko walked across to the port with purposeful strides, her boots echoing on the wooden planks. Waiting for her were the warden of Impel Down, Magellan, and his assistant.
Magellan, a towering figure with a menacing aura, stood with his arms crossed. His assistant, a much smaller and more nervous-looking man, stood beside him, fidgeting slightly. As the pirates were marched inside by prison staff, Naruko approached Magellan, her demeanor shifting to one of familiarity and warmth.
"Magellan," she greeted him with a smile. "It's good to see you again. How have you been holding up?"
Magellan's stern expression softened slightly as he returned her greeting. "Naruko, it's been a while. The prison is as secure as ever." He gestured for her to follow him inside.
As they walked, Naruko's smile turned into a playful pout. "Is that all? Surely there's more to tell."
Magellan sighed, a resigned look on his face. "Well, if you must know, my Devil Fruit abilities are still a hassle. I spend far too many hours of the day confined to the toilet."
Naruko chuckled, shaking her head. "You really should take better care of yourself, Magellan. It wouldn't do for the warden of Impel Down to be out of commission because of his own powers."
They reached the interior of the prison, the heavy doors closing behind them with a resounding thud. The dimly lit corridors were lined with cells, each one housing a dangerous criminal. The air was thick with the scent of seawater and the faint, unsettling smell of despair.
As they entered the dimly lit corridors of Impel Down, the heavy doors closing behind them with a resounding thud, Naruko, Magellan, and their entourage continued deeper into the prison. The air was thick with the scent of seawater and the faint, unsettling smell of despair. Cells lined the walls, each one housing a dangerous criminal.
Magellan's assistant, a nervous-looking man with a perpetually furrowed brow, couldn't contain his curiosity. "Captain Naruko, why did you come all the way here? You could have dropped the prisoners off at any Marine base. They would have wound up here eventually, and this is quite far out of your way."
Naruko smiled, a hint of mischief in her eyes. "Is it odd for a friend to come and see her friends?" she asked lightly. However, Magellan gave her a knowing look, prompting her to shrug. "Alright, I admit it. I came because I received an interesting report about a unique individual here."
Magellan nodded in understanding. "Shiryu, I presume." He gestured toward a door. "This way."
They walked into Magellan's office, a room that contrasted sharply with the bleak environment of the prison. It was well-lit, with bookshelves lining the walls and a large, imposing desk in the center. Magellan took his seat behind the desk, his assistant standing beside him.
As Naruko stepped forward, her form flickered with water, transforming her into the appearance of a ten-year-old girl. She climbed into the chair across from Magellan, her small frame looking almost comically out of place in the large, official setting. Kakashi and Iruka stood at her sides, slightly behind the chair, with Iruka holding her overcoat.
Magellan raised an eyebrow, a look of mild confusion on his face. "I've always been confused about your fascination with that form, Naruko."
Naruko grinned, her youthful face lighting up with amusement. "There's nothing more intimidating than a ten-year-old girl kicking your ass with a smile on her face."
Magellan chuckled, a rare sound from the usually stern warden. "I suppose there is a certain... psychological advantage to it."
As Naruko and Magellan settled in their seats, Magellan's demeanor grew more serious. "Naruko, I had no choice but to lock Shiryu up after several incidents of him killing and torturing prisoners out of turn," he began, his voice heavy with the gravity of the situation. "While it's important for the prison to maintain its image to pirates, Shiryu took things too far. He became a threat not only to the prisoners but to the very integrity of Impel Down."
Naruko nodded, absorbing the weight of his words. She knew of Shiryu's reputation—his cruelty and his unmatched skills with a blade. It was no small matter that he had worked in the prison for years.
Magellan looked down at her, his expression a mixture of concern and curiosity. "What are your intentions with Shiryu?"
Naruko leaned back in her chair, contemplating her next words carefully. After a moment of silence, she met Magellan's gaze with unwavering determination. "I want him on my ship."
The room fell into a stunned silence. Magellan's eyes widened in shock. "You cannot possibly keep him under control," he said, his voice a mixture of disbelief and concern.
Naruko's expression remained resolute. "I bet I can. Allow me to fight Shiryu. If I win, I take him aboard my ship. If I lose, I will stay and work for you here."
Magellan's assistant, standing nearby, was quick to interject. "This is madness! While she is strong, she can't possibly beat Shiryu. She will likely get killed." The assistant paused, the wheels in his mind turning as he considered the implications. "If Naruko, Akainu's apprentice, died under Magellan's watch, it might lead to Akainu firing Magellan and making him the warden."
Magellan sat silently, weighing the pros and cons of Naruko's proposal. The room's atmosphere grew tense as everyone awaited his decision. His assistant continued to talk about becoming warden, but Magellan raised a hand to silence him. He looked intently at Naruko, assessing her resolve and the potential consequences of her bold bet.
Finally, Magellan nodded, a glint of respect and curiosity in his eyes. "Very well, Naruko. I accept your bet. You may fight Shiryu. If you win, he's yours to command. If you lose, you'll stay and work under my supervision."
Naruko's lips curved into a determined smile. "Thank you, Magellan. You won't regret this."
Magellan's assistant looked aghast, but he knew better than to argue further. He could see the determination in Naruko's eyes and realized that she would not back down from this challenge.
Magellan turned to his assistant. "Inform the guards. Tell them to bring Shiryu to the arena."
As the assistant scurried off to relay the message, Magellan leaned back in his chair, his eyes locked on Naruko. "You're playing a dangerous game, Naruko. I hope you know what you're doing."
Naruko nodded, her expression resolute. "I do. This is a risk I'm willing to take."
Moments later, the heavy iron doors of Shiryu's cell creaked open. Two guards stepped inside, their expressions wary and tense. Shiryu, a tall, imposing figure with a cruel glint in his eyes, looked up from his cot.
"You have a chance to be free," one of the guards said, his voice steady but cautious.
Shiryu's interest was piqued. He stood up, towering over the guards, a dangerous smile spreading across his face. "Oh? And what must I do to earn this freedom?"
The guards exchanged a glance before one of them replied, "Fight Naruko, Akainu's apprentice. If you win, you'll be free"
Shiryu's smile widened into a predatory grin. "Interesting. Lead the way."
As Shiryu was led out of his cell and through the winding corridors of Impel Down, the weight of the upcoming battle hung heavily in the air. Both sides prepared for a confrontation that would determine more than just freedom—it would test the mettle and resolve of one of the Marine's rising stars against one of its most notorious prisoners.
Back in the office, Naruko stood, her heart pounding with a mix of excitement and anticipation. Iruka brought her the overcoat, she draped it over her shoulders with the tail end dragging behind on the floor, feeling the familiar weight of her responsibility and the challenge ahead.
Kakashi placed a reassuring hand on her shoulder. "Remember, Naruko, you've trained for this. Trust in your abilities."
Naruko nodded, a fierce determination in her eyes. "I will. Let's go."
The scene concluded with Naruko, Kakashi, and Iruka making their way to the arena, the echoes of their footsteps a prelude to the battle that was about to unfold.
--
Shiryu, dressed in his dark uniform with a cigar firmly clenched between his teeth and his sword hanging menacingly at his side, strode into the arena with an air of arrogance. The cigar smoke curled lazily around his face, adding to the aura of danger that surrounded him. His eyes, cold and calculating, surveyed the empty space before him as he took a long puff, releasing a huge plume of smoke that lingered in the still air.
The arena was eerily silent, the anticipation thick as he awaited his opponent. Moments later, Naruko walked in, a smug look on her face. Despite appearing in her child form, she carried herself with the confidence of a seasoned warrior. Her overcoat dragged behind her, emphasizing her smaller stature. As she passed the entrance, she paused, allowing Iruka to step forward and take the overcoat from her shoulders.
Shiryu watched her approach, his expression a mix of amusement and curiosity. This small, seemingly innocent girl was to be his opponent? He found the situation almost laughable.
Naruko stopped in front of him, looking up at his imposing figure with unwavering eyes. "I've heard about you, Shiryu," she began, her voice steady and clear. "You've been a bad boy. But now, you will come with me on my ship and follow my orders. I will keep you busy and your blade sharp."
Shiryu interrupted her with another puff of his cigar, releasing a thick cloud of smoke directly into her face. His hand moved to the hilt of his sword, and with a swift, practiced motion, he drew it and dashed forward, aiming to strike her down in one fluid movement.
Naruko remained unfazed. She simply held out her hand, palm facing out, as if to stop him with a mere gesture. As Shiryu closed the distance, he suddenly came to a screeching halt, dropping his sword. His muscles locked up, and a look of intense pain contorted his face. He glanced down at Naruko, struggling to understand what was happening.
Naruko's fingers were clenched in the air, manipulating an unseen force. With her other hand, she straightened out two fingers and pointed them downward. Instantly, Shiryu's head was forced to the ground with a loud thud, the impact reverberating through the arena.
Naruko playfully skipped up to him, her smile wide and innocent. She leaned down, her face inches from his. "So... how about it? Want to join me? We can have lots of fun killing pirates together."
Shiryu growled in response, his pride wounded and his anger simmering just below the surface. But as the initial shock wore off, a low, almost reluctant laugh bubbled up from his chest. He glanced up at Naruko, his eyes filled with a grudging respect. "You're something else, kid," he muttered, his voice strained.
Naruko's smile widened. "Does that mean you're in?"
Shiryu's laughter grew louder, more genuine. He could see the potential in this small, fierce girl—the power she wielded, the determination in her eyes. "Alright," he said, still chuckling. "I'm in. Let's see if you can keep me entertained."
Naruko released him, stepping back as he slowly got to his feet. He rubbed his neck, the pain from her unseen grip still lingering. "You'd better keep me busy ... Captain," he warned, his tone a mix of amusement and menace.
Naruko nodded, her expression serious but with a twinkle of mischief in her eyes. "Oh, I will. Welcome to the crew, Shiryu."
As they left the arena, Kakashi and Iruka followed, the latter handing Naruko her overcoat once more. The trio walked with Shiryu, their new, dangerous ally, towards the future that awaited them on the Grand Line. The confrontation had not only solidified Naruko's leadership but had also proven that she could handle even the most formidable of adversaries.
--
Naruko skipped happily through the dimly lit halls of Impel Down, her youthful exuberance a stark contrast to the oppressive atmosphere of the prison. Iruka, Kakashi, and their newest ally, Shiryu, followed behind her, their footsteps echoing softly on the stone floor.
"NAAARUUKOOOO!" A loud voice suddenly echoed through the corridor, causing the group to turn. A cloud of dust barreled towards them, and within moments, it revealed the source of the commotion—Sadi, a blonde-haired woman wearing a revealing pink outfit, her expression one of sheer excitement.
"Naruko!" Sadi screamed again, her voice filled with joy. She sprinted towards the girl, her arms outstretched. Without warning, she leaped and enveloped Naruko in a massive hug, lifting her off the ground and shaking her around wildly with tears streaming down her face.
"Oh, it's so good to see you, deary!" Sadi cried, squishing Naruko tightly. "It's been so long! You've come back to finally accept the offer of becoming my assistant, haven't you? We're going to have so much fun!"
Naruko's form turned to water, slipping effortlessly out of Sadi's grasp. She reformed a few feet away, her expression stoic. "No," she said flatly before turning on her heel and continuing down the corridor with a skip
Sadi fell into a dramatic depression, slumping to the ground. "Naruko, you're just as cruel as ever," she moaned, tears welling up in her eyes. But then, as quickly as the despair had come, she jumped to her feet with a blush, yelling, "I love that feeling!"
Naruko slipped on, unfazed by the commotion behind her. Sadi's voice echoed down the hall, "I'll forever wait for you to return, Naruko!"
--
Naruko and her group exited the foreboding walls of Impel Down, the weight of the prison's dark aura lifting slightly as they stepped into the fresh sea air. The sight before them was one of organized chaos as the Fishman Pirates were being unloaded from a Marine ship and brought inside the prison. The captives moved in a sullen line, their once proud and menacing demeanor now broken by their capture.
As Naruko scanned the line of prisoners, her eyes locked onto a particularly notorious figure: Arlong. His tall, muscular frame was unmistakable, even from a distance. Despite his shackles and the guards flanking him, his presence was still formidable. A surge of curiosity and satisfaction welled up within her as she saw the infamous pirate being led into captivity.
Without a word, Naruko flicked her form into her older appearance and began walking towards Arlong. The transformation was seamless, her youthful exuberance giving way to a mature, commanding presence. The guards holding Arlong stopped, sensing the gravity of the moment, and held him in place as she approached.
Arlong's eyes narrowed, and he snarled at her, his sharp teeth bared in a vicious display. "What are you staring at, girl?" he demanded, his voice dripping with contempt.
Naruko stood silently, her gaze unwavering as she looked over his injuries. She noted the bruises and cuts, each a testament to the battle he had faced. After a moment, she reached out and grabbed his chin, forcing his head up and then to the side, inspecting him closely. Arlong growled and managed to jerk his head, forcing her hand away.
Leaning close, Naruko whispered in his ear, her voice cold and amused. "Just admiring my little brother's handiwork." She laughed softly, a sound that seemed to echo with both mockery and pride, before seamlessly shifting back into her child form and walking away.
Arlong's eyes burned with rage as he watched her go. "Damn you!" he snarled, straining against his restraints as the guards pushed him forward, leading him into the depths of the prison.
Naruko rejoined her group, her expression one of satisfaction. Kakashi and Iruka fell into step beside her with Shiryu a few steps behind.
"You handled that well," Kakashi remarked, his tone calm and approving.
Naruko shrugged, a faint smile playing on her lips. "He needs to remember who put him there. Luffy's actions are a reflection of our family's strength."
Iruka nodded, his eyes reflecting both pride and concern. "Just remember, Naruko, power comes with responsibility.
Naruko glanced back at Iruka, her eyes steady. "I know, Iruka. It's just... satisfying to see justice served and by a pirate no less..what a world."
As they continued walking towards their ship, the atmosphere was a mix of tension and relief. The successful capture of the Fishman Pirates was a significant victory, and the morale among the crew was high.
Upon reaching the dock, Naruko paused for a moment, taking in the sight of the bustling activity around her. The sea stretched out before them, a vast expanse of endless possibilities and challenges. She felt a surge of determination. This was just the beginning.
Naruko turned to her crew, her voice clear and commanding. "Prepare to set sail. We have more seas to conquer and more justice to deliver."
Shiryu, standing a bit apart from the rest, watched Naruko with a mixture of respect and curiosity. He had seen many captains in his time, but none quite like her. There was a depth to her determination, a blend of youthful vigor and mature resolve that intrigued him.
--
Naruko stepped onto her ship, her demeanor shifting to that of a commanding officer. Magellan and his assistant stood on the dock, watching her with a mix of respect and curiosity.
"Goodbye, Magellan. Take care," Naruko said, nodding to the warden.
Magellan returned the nod, his expression serious. "Safe travels, Naruko. And take care of Shiryu. He's a handful."
Naruko smirked. "I'm counting on it."
Shiryu, watching from the deck, couldn't help but feel a growing respect for the young captain. Despite her childlike form, she exuded authority and confidence that few could match. He knew that this journey would be anything but dull.
As Naruko commanded her marines to prepare for departure, her voice rang out with clear authority. "All hands, prepare to set sail! We leave port immediately."
The marines moved with practiced efficiency, hoisting sails and securing lines. Shiryu observed the disciplined activity, impressed by the respect and loyalty Naruko commanded from her crew.
Naruko stood at the helm, her gaze fixed on the horizon. "We have a long journey ahead," she said quietly, more to herself than anyone else. "But we will face whatever comes our way."
Shiryu stepped closer, his curiosity piqued. "What's our destination, Captain?"
Naruko turned her head slightly, a determined smile on her lips. "The Grand Line. There's a lot of work to be done, and many pirates to bring to justice."
Shiryu nodded, feeling a sense of anticipation. "It's going to be an interesting journey."
Naruko's eyes gleamed with determination. "That it will, Shiryu. Welcome to the crew."
As the ship began to move, Magellan and his assistant waved their final goodbyes from the dock. The vessel cut through the water, leaving the grim silhouette of Impel Down behind.
Naruko, with her new and formidable ally by her side, felt a surge of excitement. The seas ahead were filled with challenges and opportunities, and she was ready to face them all.
--
As the ship sailed smoothly over the vast, open sea, Naruko sat at a large wooden table, eating with gusto. Her plate was piled high with various foods, and she shoveled them into her mouth with delight. Beside her, Shiryu sat impassively, his eyes observing her with a mixture of curiosity and intrigue. The gentle rocking of the ship and the sound of waves created a calming backdrop to their meal.
After a few moments of silence, Shiryu broke the quiet. "How did you stop me during our fight?" he asked, his voice low and curious.
Naruko paused, a piece of meat halfway to her mouth. She swallowed and looked at him, a sly smile playing on her lips. "It's because of my Devil Fruit," she said between bites. "The Water-Water Fruit allows me to control all forms of water. Akainu trained me to feel the water inside humans and use it to control them."
Shiryu raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "That sounds... difficult."
Naruko nodded, her expression momentarily serious. "It took years to make it work, and it's still not perfect. But it does the job." She paused, picking up another piece of food. "Learning the technique changed me. Sometimes, my lust for blood gets high because of it."
Shiryu's eyes narrowed slightly, but he remained silent, listening intently.
Naruko continued, her voice softer. "That's why I have Kakashi and Iruka. They help hold me back from going too far and keep me level-headed. Without them, I might lose control."
She looked directly at Shiryu, her gaze steady. "However, it will be nice to have someone like you around. Someone who understands the darker side of power."
Shiryu smirked, his respect for her growing. "I see. Well, Captain, it seems we both have our demons to manage."
Naruko grinned, a glint of mischief in her eyes. "Indeed. Welcome to the crew, Shiryu. Together, we'll make the seas tremble."
The two continued their meal in silence, a newfound understanding and mutual respect forming between them. The ship sailed on, its course set for new adventures and challenges, with the formidable duo at its helm.
The sun was beginning to set, casting a warm, golden glow over the deck. Naruko glanced out at the horizon, her thoughts drifting to the journey ahead. "You know, Shiryu, controlling the water within people isn't just a technique. It's a responsibility. It's a reminder of how much power I hold and how easy it is to abuse it."
Shiryu nodded thoughtfully. "Power always comes with responsibility. The more you have, the more you have to be careful not to let it consume you."
Naruko's eyes softened slightly as she looked at him. "That's why I need people around me who can ground me. Kakashi and Iruka have been invaluable in that regard. But having someone like you, someone who's walked the line between control and chaos, could be even more crucial."
Shiryu leaned back in his chair, his expression contemplative. "I suppose having a purpose beyond my own desires could be... interesting. I've always followed my own path, but perhaps aligning with someone as unique as you could change things."
Naruko chuckled. "Just remember, this isn't a path of redemption. We're here to maintain order in our own way. We'll take down those who threaten it, and sometimes, that requires a touch of ruthlessness."
Shiryu's smirk returned. "Ruthlessness is something I can handle. As long as there's action and a challenge, you'll have my loyalty."
Naruko finished the last bite of her meal and stood up, wiping her hands on a cloth. "Good to hear. Now, let's prepare for our next destination. The seas are full of chaos, and it's our job to bring some semblance of order to them."
As she walked away from the table, the sense of purpose and determination in her step was clear. Shiryu watched her go, a newfound respect solidifying his commitment to her cause.
He knew this journey would be unlike any other, filled with battles, bloodshed, and perhaps even a chance for something more meaningful than his previous existence.
The ship sailed on, its course set for new adventures and challenges. With Naruko at the helm with Kakashi, Iruka and Shiryu by her side, they were ready to face whatever the Grand Line threw at them, their bond strengthening with each passing wave.