Chapter 6 Baratie Part 3
Hi everyone
Again I want to apologize for the delay on this story. I was caught up with school and some other personal projects. But this story is not dead.
So a few things I want to ask you. First about the devil fruit. I'm gonna take a huge gamble with this one especially because I don't know what type of powers Dragon has. But I wanted to give Logan a fruit with wind powers related. I don't want to dig in too much but I do also want your opinion. You can still leave some suggestions about this one. Since I very much like all your suggestions.
The other thing about the other crew members I wanted to add. I want to be upfront and tell you who I'm thinking of and let me know what you think of them. The first one is Gin, then Ms. Valentine and Ms. Golden Week. From Skypea I'm still debating if ia want to or not. And Finally Tashigi.
I find these characters interesting and lacking potential so that's my reasoning and also. I think since Arabasta and onwards the crew tends to split up quite openly and if I just put this story from Logan's POV I'm gonna miss some interesting storylines and I think these characters fit well along some of the og straw hats' personalities.
Gin is ambitious and serious just like Zoro but he can also have a dark sense of humor if we go by his background so he could fit well with Robin.
Ms. Valentine from what little we saw of her we can infer that she was emotional and brash. Just like Nami. And I believe she could fit well with Brook's sense of humor.
Ms. Goldenweek is the exact opposite of Chopper. She's apatic and introverted I believe both of them can bring a new interesting side to the story.
And I don't know why but Tashigi has to be one of the most wasted characters I've ever seen. Her and Smoker. So if I bring her along I can develop her a bit more.
And I can write all the POVs that I like while splitting these slight OC characters with the main crew. While also getting a freeway to do original things.
But please let me know what you think about these. Also, let me know if you like someone else join the crew.
With that being said. Enjoy the chapter.
Going Merry
It was a calm and boring trip back home Nami noticed. She was kind of glad for it but after what she'd done and all her previous adventures it was a letdown.
She was currently behind the wheel of the ship sailing back home. It had been a while since she had been back there, and with her goal almost in sight, she was getting anxious to be back.
She passed her hand along her hair, missing the weight of a hat she had gotten used to, and her mind went to that cowboy she had met not long ago. She wondered if he truly meant his words and if he wouldn't take what she did to heart.
Her hand then went to her neck where Logan's necklace and ring lay. She grabbed the ring and brought it to eye level. She had stolen it unconsciously. A force of habit.
Or at least that's what she was telling herself. She didn't know why she did it but what is done is done she thought letting out a tired sigh. She cursed mentally about her possible mistake but ultimately let it go. She hoped that at least the treasure behind this ring was as great as Logan claimed to be
She let go of the ring and looked at the horizon ahead deep in thought "I'm coming home Belmere," She whispered into the air with a bit of nostalgia in her voice "I have so much to tell you,"
Baratie
"What do you mean she stole the ship!?" Ussop shouted frenetically while grabbing Logan by his collar "There's no way she could've gotten past you! Why did you let her go!?" He said and practically shouted at him and spit in his face while Logan looked down at him apologetically
The rest of the crew plus Johnny and Yousaku looked at them both not wanting to interfere. Zoro glanced at Luffy who a bit was clearly distraught because of what was happening
So he decided to step forward seeing the guilt clear on Logan's face "It doesn't matter whose fault is it, or what happened." Zoro said pulling Ussop from Logan "We can go after her and the ship. Right?" Zoro said looking at Logan who nodded and took a breath to calm himself
"Right, if we hurry we can still catch her," Logan said while looking up. Then he glanced at Luffy and bowed his head a bit hiding his eyes behind his hat "I'm sorry Capn'. I let her go," He said and Luffy walked forward and put a hand on his shoulder
"Don't beat yourself too hard Logan. We'll go to Nami, she's our navigator after all," Luffy said reassuringly and then squeezed his shoulder before letting go "Johnny, Yosuaku. I'm sorry but can we use your boat?" Luffy asked sheepishly and the two mercenaries smiled at him while giving him a thumbs-up
"You got it big," They started saying but then the restaurant ship rocked back and forth once more sending the whole group tumbling down
"The hell was that!?" Logan asked out loud surprised and Luffy lifted his head suddenly remembering something
"Ah right. That Kritto guy said he was going to attack the restaurant, we can't let him!" Luffy shouted running toward the entrance
"Kritto guy?" Logan asked Zoro confusion in his voice. What the hell was their captain saying seemed to be the question
"Don Krieg," Zoro said helping Logan stand up "Come one. Let's go before he does something stupid," he said as the whole group found themselves on the upper floor of the entrance to the restaurant
But then everyone stopped and looked ahead surprised and shock in their eyes. The ship of Don Krieg, even if it was in a precarious state, had been cut in half right in the middle recently.
While the crew plus Johnny and Yosaku looked at the ship in confusion one didn't. Logan had seen this work before. While he was young in Wano, a pirate of great renown had come to talk with his father. A man who inspired fear and dread
Same dread as here. A man able to cut anything he wishes with ease "He's here," Logan whispered as the crew looked at him in confusion but then it turned to concern when they saw his worried eyes
"Who's here?" Zoro asked. He had a feeling but he needed to be certain, he needed to hear the name. Everything he had been looking for was in his grasp
Logan glanced at him and cursed mentally. He didn't want to tell him. He knew Zoro was strong and skillful. But he had also seen that man's abilities. And no matter how hard he tried to deceive himself. He knew there was no way Zoro left this encounter alive
Logan gulped and looked at Zor. There was no escaping this. He prayed that nothing bad happened to his crewmate while letting the name out "The strongest swordsman in the world." Logan said as Zoro's eyes hardened in deep focus while the others grew curios "Hawk-eye Mihawk," He said as Zor turned around and looked at the lonely boat that was approaching
"Hawk-eye Mihawk," Luffy repeated noticing how serious the situation had become. The group's eyes turned below where a boat resembling a coffin approached the restaurant. In there a man wearing but a simple pair of dark purple pants and a dark pink trench coat with a dark mascaraed hat sat there calmly waiting for the boat to get to its destination. This man was the strongest swordsman in the whole world, Mihwak
He looked up and those unique hawk-eyes looked around and the group gulped in fear when those eyes glanced at him.
Logan held back his sigh of defeat when he saw Zoro jumping to the floor below as he plus the crew approached Zeff and the rest of the chefs "We're letting him do this?" Logan asked Luffy seriously. He knew the answer neither he nor Luffy would interfere with Zoro's or any other crewmembers dreams
But a part of Logan hoped his captain gave the order to grab Zoro out of here and go after Nami "Yes. We stay here," Luffy said not losing sight of Zoro
Usppo, who was looking at the sea specifically the glimpse of the Going Merry, turned around to his captain "Oi Luffy! This is bad. We're going to lose her!" He said and Logan wondered if he was referring to Nami or the boat
"Don't worry partner. I know where she's going." Logan said taking a seat on one of the ledges in front of him. "Once this is over. You, Zoro, and the bounty hunters will go to Arlong Park to get our ship and navigator back," Logan said looking straight into Ussop's eyes and then glancing at his quiet and focused Captain "Capn's orders," He said simply before looking back ahead in deep focus
Ussop gulped but nodded nonetheless. This situation seems to be serious enough so he would let himself be led by Luffy and Logan.
Logan took a cigarette from his pocket and lit it up. His eyes focus on his crewmate Zoro who had just taken out his sword and pointed it at the warlord of the sea. He could hear quite clearly what was being said
This was a test of strength and ambition for Zoro. He knew what type of man his swordsman crewmate was. Is fight or die for him here. But when Mihawk jumped in a blur to where Zoro was his stomach fell in fear
"Trust in him Logan," Luffy whispered to him, and that helped Logan calm himself. Whatever happens next is up to Zoro. So he will put his trust in him.
Zoro had drawn out his swords and positioned himself into the three-sword style he was so used to when his eyes winded. He felt quite disrespected when he saw Mihawk taking a small dagger from the necklace on his neck.
"Hey, what's the meaning of this?" He asked annoyed. He was here to take the strongest swordsman down. What kind of disrespect was this?
"I am no beast that goes all out when hunting a rabbit," Mihawk said in a bored and calm tone in his voice. He didn't think much of his opponent that much was clear "Even if you're a swordsman who's earned a bit of a name for himself. This sea, the East Blue, is the weakest amongst the four seas," Mihawk said and Logan couldn't help but agree
He had lived most of his life on the West Sea. But in his travels around here, he had noticed that there was not much competition around here. This was for a lack of better word, peaceful. At least compared to home and the other places he had visited.
"Unfortunately, I don't carry any smaller sharp instrument than this one," Mihawk said in the same bored tone taking a small dig at the greenhead in front of him
"That's enough making fun of me!" Zoro said annoyed. He disliked not being taken seriously and more so by the man he had been hunting for all his life now. He was ready to start the fight but then his eyes glanced to the left when a Krieg pirate ran forward
"You bastard! You think you can just come here and face no consequences for what you did to us!?" The pirate shouted while taking a step "I'll make you pay!" The pirate said jumping towards Mihawk. He was ready to cut the pirate down but then stopped when he heard a shot being fired
Both Zoro and Mihawk saw how a bullet connected with the pirate's neck and took his head off clean and swiftly. Zoro smiled recognizing that gunshot but Mihawk didn't.
He glanced up and noticed a familiar sight. A pair of eyes he quite easily remembered "So this where you were, kid? Your old man will want to know this," He thought as he started straight into Logan's eyes
Logan had his silver revolver out with smoke coming out of its barrel. He was glaring down at the pirates before speaking up "Anyone else dares to interfere, whether it is a Kreig pirate or a Baratie employee, dies!" Logan warned everyone there. This was a duel and if none respected it then he would take care of them. It was the least he could do for Zoro.
Mihawk focused back on Zoro who was rushing forward at him. Both of them were pirates so he had no qualms about the use of such a dishonorable tactic. He saw the trio of swords heading towards him and he couldn't help but feel bored about it.
Zoro heard a clash of swords and that surprised him making his eyes grow big. Especially when he saw Mihawk stopping his swords with that one small dagger. "What!?" He gritted out in shock and no matter how much strength he used he couldn't move. His opponent was a rock. An unmovable object.
Everyone was shocked and couldn't believe their eyes. The move that had ended multiple enemies had been stopped without any type of problem. It was as if Mihawk wasn't even trying.
Logan blew a cloud of smoke out of his mouth as a mantra to calm himself. He expected this. The levels between Zoro and Mihawk were too great. He knew this. So why was he still feeling afraid for Zoro?
Zoro looked into Mihawk's eyes with slight fear. How can this be? His greatest technique was being stopped and being used as a common toy. There was no way this could be happening "There's no way the world's strongest is that far!" He shouted and gone went the techniques he had learned and now he was just swinging around trying to somehow cut through the other swordsman
But no matter what he did Mihawk didn't move nor did he waiver from his stance. He just continued to use the small dagger to block Zoro's swings.
Then he pushed forward with his dagger sending Zoro tumbling down much to the surprise of everyone. Seeing the pirate hunter being beaten so easily was too much of a shock for everyone here.
Zoro stood up now feeling annoyed. How could he really be this far apart from him? This couldn't be.
He rushed forward and the wild swings continued as Mihawk just sidestepped avoiding the swings while blocking some others. It really was child's play for the Warlord.
But he had to grant it to the pirate hunter. The ferocity and wildness of his swings were to be condemned. This may be weak by his standards but he was starting to have some fun.
He blocked a swing coming from the sword in Zoro's mouth and both of them fell into a stalemate. Mihawk stared into Zoro's eyes wondering what drove this ferocity out of him. What motivated the pirate hunter in front of him?
He stepped to the left tripping Zoro in the process and he swiftly hit the pirate hunter in the neck. Perhaps this would not be enough he thought. But no he was testing the limits of the man in front of him.
Zoro didn't fall. But he was tired and out of breath and it seemed that the greatest swordsman in the world hadn't even broken a sweat. He was cursing everything but mostly himself. There was no way he would fall while being this close. No way.
He stumbled forward trying to hit Mihawk but the swordsman just stepped aside and let the pirate hunter fall onto the floor.
Mihawk was looking at him thoroughly. No words need to be said for both to understand what Mihawk was thinking. He still wonders what force drove Zoro's actions.
The pirate hunter stood up. His mind racing not believing how weak he was. The path to being the greatest was getting farther and farther away from him.
But he would not have it. He would rather die than admit defeat here. So he, with the last wind of strength he had, rushed forward trying to hit the world's greatest swordsman.
But he failed as Mihawk moved forward and stabbed the right side of Zoro's chest. The pirate hunter coughed drops of blood and looked straight into the warlord's eyes "Why aren't you retreating?" Mihawk asked and Zoro looked at him in confusion "If I turn my dagger I will surely hit your heart. So, why aren't you retreating?" He asked in confusion as Zoro looked at him
"I don't know." Zoro said as Mihawk looked at him confused by his response "I really don't know. All I know is that if I retreat here, I feel like all of those promises and pacts from the past will shatter in front of me," Zoro said coughing some drops of blood mid-speech
Logan and Luffy were losing it Ussop could tell. They had agreed not to move and even threatened Johnny and Yosaku when they almost did. But Ussop could tell they were itching to jump in.
Luffy's arms were tight and ready to burst at any moment. A sign that he was ready to use his power of the gum-gum fruit. And Logan was no better as he had both hands grabbing thigh on the handle of his two revolvers.
And it didn't help that Zoro had just been stabbed.
Mihawk removed the dagger from Zoro and took a step back looking at the pirate hunter in wonder "Kid, what's your name?" Mihawk asked in curiosity his tone no longer having the same boredom to it.
"Roronoa Zoro," Zoro said out of breath and going into one final stance. One final attack. An all in kind of attack
"I will remember it," Mihawk said putting the dagger back into his necklace "Very well Zoro. Your conviction has impressed me. And for that, I will do you the honor of defeating you with Yoru," Mihawk said taking the massive blade that he had on his back out "The darkest blade of them all," He said pointing the blade at Zoro
Zoro stood straight and started spinning the swords in his hands around to get some momentum going. He knew what was going to happen next. Mihawk was going to strike him down. So he was ready for a counter.
Mihawk sprinted forward and Zoro cut forward at the same time as both swordsmen landed behind each other. At first, nothing happened and a stalemate invaded both. But then the swords in Zoro's hand fell apart broken into pieces
"So that's what defeat tastes like," Zoro mumbled to himself "To think I was too far away from my dream," He said standing up as Mihawk was ready to finish him off
But stopped when he Zor sheathing his sword and turning around "What are you doing?" The warlord couldn't help but ask in confusion as he saw the pirate hunter smiling at him
"Scars on the back are a swordsman's shame," Zoro said simply getting a wide smirk from Mihawk
"Magnificent!" Mihawk said while slashing down into Zoro's chest. Zoro coughed blood out and fell back onto the floor below as Mihawk looked down at him
"Zoro!" Luffy shouted and Mihawk quickly cut through two incoming bullets. He then had to dodge to the side as Luffy stretched a punch heading into Mihawk's face
Luffy's fist got stuck into one of the many pieces of broken ship and he quickly went flying into it rocking the floor where Zoro was. He fell into the water and Logan went into action and looked at Ussop
"Ussop!" Logan said and Ussop didn't have to wonder what he wanted. He simply grabbed Johnny and Yosaku from their collars and brought them into the small spare boat they had.
The bounty hunters quickly jumped into the sea and took Zoro out before he could drown. Logan stood up on top of the ledge and watched the bounty hunters take care of his crewmate.
Then he looked forward and glared at Mihawk who had a watchful eye on him "It's been a while kid. New crew?" Mihawk asked as Logan looked straight at him while putting his guns away. A fight with the greatest swordsman was not something he wanted to do
"What's is it to you? You government's dog!" Logan asked and maybe the anger of seeing his crewmate being beaten had gotten to him. Who would've thought he'd be here insulting a warlord of the sea
Mihawk just snorted. The teen's cheek reminded him of someone he used to know and then tilted his head "You know, your father has put a reward on your head. Five hundred million berries to get you back to Wano in one piece," Mihawk said as everyone there who was not part of the straw hat crew looked at him in confusion and shock
"Why do you think I'm here?" Logan said narrowing his eyes a bit "Tell my old man to stop sending those stupid mercenaries. I will get there and meet him on my own time," Logan said and Mihawk hummed a bit
"I'll make sure he gets that," He said before turning to Luffy who had finally freed himself "You're the captain of this crew?" He asked in curiosity and Luffy, who was still glaring at him, nodded his head
"What's your goal here kid?" He asked as Luffy hardened his eyes and Mihawk looked surprised once more by the conviction of these three people
"King of the pirates!" Luffy said surprising all of those who hadn't heard his dream. Mihawk chuckled a bit in amusement and looked down at Luffy
"That's a harder goal to achieve than your crewmate's," Mihawk said and Luffy just scoffed at him
"I won't know unless I try it." He said sticking his tongue out to the swordsman. But then he heard a cough fill with pain coming from the boat where Zoro was
"Luffy, Logan!" Zoro shouted with all his remaining strength "Can you hear me?" Zoro asked and Luffy responded to him with a yes.
Logan felt relief hearing that he was okay. "I'm sorry for disappointing you. I know that you need nothing but the greatest swordsman in the world. I've let you down please forgive me," Zoro said and Logan could tell he was rambling but he let him carry on. He needed to say something so Logan would not interrupt
"I solemnly swear, from this moment forward. That I will never lose again." Zoro said while putting his sword up in the air and tears flowed freely from his eyes. "Until the day comes when I defeat that man and take his title," Zoro said as those who mattered smiled at the conviction in his words "I will never, never! Lose again!" Zoro said putting a hand over his eyes to stop the tears
"Is that okay for you!? Pirate king!?" Zoro shouted as both Luffy and Logan's eyes winded in shock a bit
Luffy started chuckling a bit and smiled at Zoro happy he was okay "Of course!" Luffy said happily and Mihawk smiled at Zoro
"I'll be waiting for you Roronoa Zoro! Get stronger! See what the world has to offer!" Mihawk shouted towards the boat "I will hold the title of world strongest till you're ready to take it off from me!" Mihawk said before turning towards Luffy and Logan "You guys are a good team. I'll be looking forward to what you three do," Mihawk said walking away but then the floor rocked as Don Krieg landed behind the two
"Hey, you bastard. Are you not going to kill me now!?" Krieg shouted and Mihawk looked at him in boredom
"I was. But I had my fun. I'm going home now," Mihawk said praying he wouldn't be stupid enough to attack him. But his prayers were unanswered it seems
"You're going nowhere!" Krieg said shooting with his multiple guns at Mihawk who just reflected them down and created a smoke screen for him to leave
Back with the cooks and Logan a certain sous-chef got curious about what had transpired and took a step forward "Why would he throw his life like that? For just a dream?" Sani asked in wonder looking at the boat that carried the green-haired man.
"Sanji was it?" Logan asked and made the blond man look up at him "The answer is simple partner. What's the point of living without achieving your dreams?" Logan said while looking back ahead.
Sanji looked down in deep thought. Was he wasting his life here? Sure, he had a debt to repay and he was content. But with the all-blue out there. Was he living his life to the fullest?
"Few, that was close," Luffy said jumping back and grabbing onto the ledge "Ussop! Go after Nami! We will catch you there!" Luffy shouted as the straw hat's sniper nodded with vigor.
"Don't worry captain! Me and Zoro will bring her and the Going Merry back in no time!" Ussop shouted while throwing the hat that Luffy had lost on the shuffle back to his captain. Luffy smiled at him while catching the hat mid-air and putting it back on his head. Both he and Logan watch them drift away and then the outlaw looked at his captain
"Don't want me to go with them Cap'n?" Logan asked and Luffy gave him a cheeky smile
"Do you even want to go with them? Or are you itching for a fight?" Luffy asked and Logan snorted and looked ahead to the Krieg's pirates while his hands went to his revolvers. Luffy took that as an answer and looked back at the owner of the restaurant
"Hey, old man!" Luffy said as Zeff glared down at him "If I take care of them will you consider my debt repaid?" Luffy asked eagerly and Zeff snorted at him. He had to grant it to the straw hat. He had much eagerness in him
"That works for me. It's better than having you destroy all my silverware." Zeff said as Luffy laughed sheepishly and looked behind him
"Yosh! Logan," Luffy said without looking at his outlaw. Logan let out a hum telling him that he was listening "Stay here and protect the cooks. I'll take frontal assault," Luffy said and Logan cracked his neck and threw his cigarette into the water
"Aye aye, cap'n." Logan said moving his facemask up to hide his nose and mouth "Just don't fall into the water. That would complicate things," Logan said looking down at the pirates. Waiting for them to take the first move
Far away from the restaurant, a lonely coffin boat stood with a clear view. Mihawk had started to leave but his curiosity got the better of him. So, for now, he would wait here to see what those two would do.
"Here they come," Logan said as he saw a trio of pirates jumping towards the restaurant but it seemed his captain had that covered
"GUM-GUM ROCKET!" Luffy shouted while stretching back and he went flying forward heading straight to the trio of pirates "And also GUM-GUM PISTOL!" He said in mid-air stretching his arm back and hitting the pirates mid-air
"Luffy! What did we say about naming your attacks!?" Logan shouted and Luffy managed to grab hold on one of the masts of the broken ship. The captain pouted and looked at Logan
"But it's so cool!" Luffy said and Logan sighed while resisting the urge to pinch his nose. Then his eyes narrowed and he quickly drew his two revolvers.
Luffy heard gunshots and looked down to see two pirates falling into the sea dead. It seems they had some kind of weapons on them.
"Sanji it's ready!" A chef shouted and Logan wondered what he was talking about. But then he almost tumbled down when the ship started moving
Then around the restaurant a sort of platform appeared and Logan jumped down into it to test how it was "Oh wow. Jezz old man where did you get the money for this?" Logan asked as Zeff snorted and looked behind Logan
"You have more pressing matters brat," Zeff said and Logan turned around noticing that several pirates had jumped onto the platform as well "Cooks, let those kids handle it. Only interfere if the pirates get too close," Zeff said as every cook minus Sanji nodded their head and just stood guard
"Howdy fellas. It is a beautiful day isn't it?" Logan said looking straight into the pirates who had their weapons trained at him "Say your final prayers if you will. But know this. None of ya is getting past me," Logan said pointing his silver white gun at one of the pirates
"Heh, you think a lowly cowboy will stop us? You got to be-" One of the pirates said but was suddenly cut off as a bullet was fired straight at his head.
"I think we're past the point of conversation won't you agree gentlemen?" Logan said firing three more shots with his black revolver and killing three more pirates "Shall we dance?" Logan said and one of the pirates quickly rushed forward
Logan blocked the sword attack with his silver gun. The one on his left hand. And in a swift quick motion. Then in the same movement, he shot from his hip into the pirate's throat killing him instantly
Two more pirates jumped at him but Logan's reflexes were better. So he shot at the knee of one of the pirates and then rolled behind the falling pirate's back. Kicking the other one in the process. But the rolling wasn't for show. It gave him the perfect opportunity to put the barrel of his gun behind the pirate's head
Mid-way into his roll he shot the pirate killing him instantly and with his other gun he shot two times connecting into the chest of the pirate he had just kicked.
The pirate numbers of those who jumped onto the platform had grown thin but there were still many left. They seemed shocked and that was something Logan could use to his advantage
But then a shadow grew behind him as a pirate had hidden himself well and managed to ambush the outlaw. And he might've struck Logan if it wasn't for someone who jumped in
"Hey, shitty hooligan. Don't go ahead stealing the show," Sanji said having kicked the Pirate in the face. Logan took the moment to reload his guns and spare a small glance at Sanji
"I was wondering when would you join Pervert cook," Logan said as both of them were back to back while glaring at the pirates "You take left and I'll take right," Logan said and Sanji grumbled at him
"I don't take orders from you damm ranchero," He said quickly rushing to the left and starting the fight against the pirates on that side
"How the hell does he even know that nickname?" Logan whispered in wonder but he didn't have time to think about that since the pirates rushed towards him
Both he and Sanji started working towards defeating the pirates that had jumped onto the platform. Though it seems Sanji's attacks were a lot less lethal than Logan's
If the outlaw was being honest with himself he was letting a lot of anger out. The whole situation with Nami did serve to push his frustration up. And he was letting it all on these pirates.
But if he was being honest there was one he was eager to face. The one Sanji had given food to. Gin was his name if he remembered tight.
He knew how harsh the Grand Line could be. He was from there after all. But seeing someone so defeated, so broken and so lost because of it struck a chord in Logan. He needed to knock some sense into that man.
He was mostly done with the pirates when his instincts told him to quickly move out of the way. So he did as he always trusted his instincts. And it served him well as a man wearing a huge shield in his chest and multiple little shields around his body jumped at him
"Great. Why do I always get the creeps?" Logan asked himself as he waited for the man to strike him or something but it seemed the shield man was in some monologue or something.
This was becoming something of a bad habit for Logan. Whenever he fought too much with his guns his hearing would get this humming sound that would settle in a second or two. But sometimes he missed when someone was talking
Well, he hoped that whatever the man in the shields was saying was not important or something along those lines. He didn't even really care if he was being honest.
What he did care for was when his Captain fell right on top of the shielded man "Ouch that hurt!" Luffy said rubbing his butt and glaring at Don Krieg "Hey! Throwing is cheating!" Luffy said with a shout of indignation
But then he turned around and looked at the shielded man who was looking at the floor frightened and shocked
"That's," Pearl said touching his nose from where the blood came from.
"Ah dammit, here we go again," Krieg said looking at Pearl in frustration. Knowing what would transpire next
"That's my blood!" Pearl shouted and started hitting his shields suddenly finding himself wrapped in flames "I will not be hurt ever again!" He shouted as flames started moving toward the restaurant
"Hey, you bastard! Don't go and burn the restaurant down!" Sanji said jumping into the circle of fire to deal with the shielded pirate.
Logan would've joined Sanji to help him take Pearl down. But a slight movement under his peripheral caught his attention
He quickly moved there and took out his rifle. "Hey, partner. I said that no one would get past me, don't go on and make me a liar." Logan said as he and Gin pointed their rifles at each other.
"Get out of my way outlaw," Gin said as Logan positioned himself between Zeff and Gin. Gin wanted to try and take him hostage to end this madness but it seems Logan had caught sight of his intentions "I don't want to kill you." Gin said as Logan narrowed his eyes at him
"Lower your weapon then." Logan said moving his rifle a bit upwards as both men glared at each other "Is this how you wish to resolve things? Cheating and doing what's easy?" Logan asked a bit forcefully
To be honest he didn't actually care how or why Gin did these things. What he did care though was the broken dream that the man in front of him carried. How much would Krieg ask of him before he breaks? And how much ambition did he still have left?
Logan hated seeing someone in such a state. It reminded him of how he used to be those first few years when he lost his family. So, he would break this man right here in hopes that his ambition would rise again
"If this is how you guys behave when you got to the Grand Line. No wonder it chewed you and spat you out quite easily," Logan said making Gin glare at him
"You don't know what you're saying, kid!" Gin said frustrated. How dare this kid talk so carefree about the nightmares he faced
"Oh, but I do. I was born there after all," Logan said and used the shock that got to the Second in Command of the Krieg's pirates to his advantage. He flipped his rifle around and grabbed the barrel with his two hands. He then used the handle of his rifle to hit the hand of the man in front of him with enough force to make him drop the rifle
Gin's eyes winded and stepped back fearing a shot from the cowboy but that's what Logan wanted him to do. In the same swing, Logan struck Gin's stomach on the right side with his rifle. With just enough strength to send him tumbling down onto the platform
Gin gasped for air before standing up and saw the young Outlaw jumping in front of him putting his rifle away "You got just but a glimpse of the true horrors that Paradise has to offer. And looked away in fear," Logan said as he took out a medium-sized hunting knife from one of his pouches "Let's see if you will do so again Gin," Logan said pointing the knife at Gin
The older pirate spit some saliva out and took what seemed to be two black Tonfas with weights on their ends. Gin narrowed his eyes. This whole situation was getting to him.
There was no honor in what they were doing. These people had given him food for free. They had looked out for him. And how he was repaying them? By attacking their restaurant?
He glanced behind him and saw his captain just sitting there waiting for them to get the job done. How many times had these been happening? How many times has Kreig used them as cannon fodder? Was this what he had hoped when he started his voyage into the sea?
"Something the matter partner?" Logan asked in curiosity wondering what was eating through Gin
"Nothing you will understand," Gin said looking back at Logan. The outlaw tilted his head and glanced back at Krieg.
"Ah, I see," Logan said understanding what was happening "You know what? After this, I'd guarantee you will know what it takes to make it on the grand line," Logan said and Gin sighed while putting his guard up
"I sure hope so," Gin said as both opponents just stared at each other waiting for an opening. Neither of them moved an inch. Gin found this interesting. Usually, he would just jump into the attack, but his instincts got better since the Grand Line. And right now they were telling him to be careful of the guy in front of him
"Gin! What's the matter!? Kill the shithead already!" Kreig shouted not realizing how stupid that had been. Gin had fallen to the distraction and looked back to his captain.
He turned around to start the attack but he had to quickly put his guard up "Don't lose sight of your opponent," Logan said as Gin managed to block a kick headed to his stomach
Logan twisted around and tried to slash Gin's face. The older Pirate jumped back to avoid the slash and then hit the floor of the platform trying to trip the cowboy.
Logan jumped forward and tried to kick Gin in the face but the older man blocked it again.
Logan landed behind the pirate and had to move down to avoid the strike to his head. But Gin managed to trip the outlaw onto the ground and started a ruffle fight on the ground
Gin tried to strike Logan's throat with his tonfa, but the cowboy managed to grab it and block the strike. Logan tried to strike the older pirate, but Gin managed to grab the hand that held the hunting knife.
Both men struggled to move or avoid the attack, but in the middle of the struggle, Logan noticed that Gin started to let go of his strength. He wondered why the hell he did so but still took advantage of that.
He moved the hand that held the knife upwards and in the same movement, he struck Gin's stomach with his knee. Then both men rolled around and stood up as quick as they could.
But Logan was quicker. So he rushed forward and continued the onslaught of strikes trying to cut and defeat Gin who could only use his tonfa's as shield.
Gin was getting frustrated being on the ropes of the outlaw's attacks and it didn't help that Sanji had defeated Pearl in the meantime.
He needed an opening and it came to him when both men heard a splash of water. Turns out Luffy had started fighting Krieg and in between the fight Don Krieg had managed to drop Luffy into the sea
"Luffy!" Logan shouted looking back in worry. He knew full well that this wasn't good and he was ready to jump into the sea to save his captain but then he had to quickly put his guard up as Gin used the distraction to his advantage.
"Don't take your eyes off your opponent!" Gin said mimicking Logan's words as he managed to hit the cowboy right into the right side of his face.
Logan was sent back and fell into the platform face first thanks to the strength of that hit as blood started dripping from his right cheek and from inside his mouth. He narrowed his eyes and spit some blood out while glancing at the sous chef of this restaurant.
He knew he couldn't worry about Luffy and fight Gin at the same time so he needed help "Hey pervert cook! Rescue my captain!" Logan said rushing forward towards Gin as Sanji rushed past the outlaw
"I don't take orders from you cowboy," Sanii said taking off his suit and jumping straight into the water.
"Leaving your captain's safety to a stranger? That's bold," Gin said sarcastically while blocking another strike.
Logan managed to kick Gin's stomach while in mid-air and Gin had to take a few steps back "My captain trusts him enough. So I will too." Logan said before rushing forward once more "Does your captain trusts you as well Gin?" Logan asked sarcastically and Gin cursed mentally as he struck forward
"You bastard!" Gin said throwing a strike headed to Logan's head "You have no idea!" Gin said as Logan dodged down
Both men traded hits and strikes while they were fighting and each man had become a bloody mess. Gin had multiple cuts on his arms and legs and one or two on his face. Logan had bruises all around and his left arm was hanging low from all of the strikes he had blocked.
Both men were almost on an equal level. Gin had started to notice that the kid was slightly better than him. If the kid were to use those guns of his he would've been dead already. He knew he had to go for the kill but he couldn't bring himself to.
They were so eager and young. Gin wondered when was the last time he felt that way. His eyes went back to Krieg who was battling anew and rageful Luffy and something started to click on his mind. They had made him not the other way around. They were always there for their captain but not him.
No, when Mihawk struck. Krieg was the first to run away. Could he really survive the grand line with a captain who clearly didn't care for him?
He was so lost in his thoughts that he missed Logan's right hand itching to grab the sword on his back. To be true Logan was starting to get desperate to finish the fight but before he could grab the handle of his sword he remembered what the man who gave him this sword had told him a while ago. To never use this sword unless he was ready to lose himself. So for now he decided to not use it and focus on just fighting
While all of that happened with Logan, Gin still kept thinking about those thoughts that ran through his head. Then when he saw Logan rushing towards him his arms fell letting go of his intentions of attacking. Logan's eyes winded and went for the knockout. He twisted himself around and with the handle of the knife he struck Gin's chin straight on
Gin's head moved to the right abruptly and he fell to the ground not unconscious just tired and defeated. The kids' will had bested him but he actually didn't mind it. This journey of his had shown him how little of the world he knew
Logan fell to the ground butt first and let out a couple of huffs of air out. This battle was tough and several parts of his body ached. But he had accomplished his mission. Gin had started thinking about what he needed to change to be better and stronger
"Gin you bastard! How did you lose to that fucker!" Logan heard Krieg shout in frustration and looked up to see the captain of the Don Krieg's pirates trying to avoid Luffy's strikes with a lot of difficulty. "No matter, I will end this myself!" Krieg shouted and Logan could feel the anxiety from all the other pirates
"Don't tell me," Logan heard Gin exclaim in terror. He saw multiple compartments open up from his armor and saw Gin trying to reach for something on his jacket
"Don't even think of it Gin! Losers don't deserve to avoid my attack!" Krieg said as Logan saw Gin taking out a gas mask but stopped before he could put it on
Then green gas started pouring out from the compartments of Krieg's armor and started moving toward everyone in front of Krieg. Logan saw that it would hit Him, Sanji, Gin, and Luffy first so he took action
"Cook get back!" Logan shouted to Sanji who managed to jump back between the rubble back to the restaurant. Logan tried to move back but his muscles and bones ached and he couldn't move. His eyes glanced back to Luffy and then to Gin and he managed to take a step forward.
Gin's eyes narrowed when he felt Logan taking the mask off his hands but then his eyes winded when he saw the cowboy putting the mask on his face "Why?" Was the only thing Ging could ask
Logan let out a few coughs as the gas started to hit him "When a cap'n leaves his crew to die. It only serves to make my blood boil," Logan said as his vision started to become blurry "Trust Gin. Trust in your crew. That's what gets you through the grand line," Logan said as he fell to the ground unconscious because of the gas
"Logan!" Luffy shouted in worry and in mid cough. He had already seen one of his crew members almost die. He wouldn't let it happen again. So he drew a big breath filling his cheeks with all the gas around him stretching them to inhuman abilities
Krieg could only watch in horror when he saw Luffy gulping that gas down into his stomach "What kind of monster are you?" Krieg asked in shock and unbeknownst to him one other person was thinking along the same path as him
Sanji had seen both straw hats giving their all just to prove their ambitions and to protect one another. Logan's words ran through his mind. Could he do this also? To follow his dream? Was he just existing here instead of living out there?
"No one hurts my friends you bastard!" Sanji heard Luffy shout and he saw him stretching his arm back to no end. Then the arm ricocheted forward and hit Krieg straight into his chest breaking his armor and sending him flying away never to be seen again.
Gin managed to look at that scene also and he wondered why he felt this sense of relief. The Krieg pirates were no more and instead of feeling frustrated by this defeat he felt relief. And as darkness consumed his vision he smiled knowing he was free to make his own choices.
Luffy jumped to the platform where Logan was lying. He had his face hidden with his hat and Luffy quickly kneeled next to his right-hand man "Hey Logan! Are you okay!?" Luffy asked in concern but then blinked in confusion when he started hearing snoring
"Logan, are you sleeping?" Luffy asked as Logan stretched his arms upwards and glanced at Luffy behind his hat
"I was. Rude of you to interrupt me cap'n," Logan said with a slight smirk on his face that made Luffy chuckle "Did we win?" Logan asked glancing back to where Krieg was before and Luffy nodded his head "Good, then that old geezer will make us a good feast then," Logan said, and both straw hats chuckled at that idea.
Then Luffy grasped Logan's hand and helped him sit up much to the discomfort of Logan. Then as both men were face to face Logan gave Luffy an apologetic look "Luffy I'm sorry," Logan said for the first time referring to him on a first-name basis
"For what?" Luffy asked confused and Logan let out a sigh wanting to light up a cigarette
"I knew Nami was going to leave us for a while now," Logan said while avoiding Luffy's eyes "I should've said something or warned you this might happen. I'm sorry," Logan said and then felt a hand on his shoulder
"Logan," Luffy said making the cowboy look up "I don't know why Nami decided to leave us but I know she had to keep the secret for a reason," Luffy said and Logan blinked. He had started realizing that Luffy was wiser than he gave him credit for. He was still an idiot but a wise idiot though.
"It doesn't matter we will catch up to her in no time and continue to the grand line!" Luffy said and Logan chuckled
"She might not want to Luffy," Logan said and Luffy chuckled while slapping Logan's arm a bit
"I'm very persuasive Logan. Don't be such a pessimist," Luffy said and Logan scoffed a bit while rolling his eyes
"Right. Says the guy who can't get that cook to join us," Logan said and Luffy laughed sheepishly at that "What are you going to do about that? You know we can't stay here waiting for him to change his mind," Logan said and now it was Luffy's turn to let out a sigh
"I know, I know," Luffy said while looking down "We wait to the end of the feast. If he still says no. Then we'll go on our separate paths," Luffy said and it was now Logan's turn to put his hand on Luffy's shoulder
"I'm sure he will say yes Luffy," Logan said and Luffy gave him a grateful smile "Speaking of adding members to our crew. I do have a suggestion," Logan said as his eyes traveled down to Gin
"Him? You want him to join us?" Luffy asked in genuine curiosity and Logan nodded his head "Why?" He asked and Logan looked at Gin with a thoughtful look
"He reminds me of myself back when." Logan said with a bit of nostalgia "The Grand Line can be a wonderful place as well as it can be hell. It all depends on the crew you have behind you," Logan said before looking back at Luffy "I think he deserves another chance. With a new crew he can trust," Logan said while giving a smile at Luffy
Luffy crossed his arms and looked down for a moment. Logan was okay if his captain said no but having known Luffy for a bit now. He knew that the answer had high possibility to be a yes.
"Being a pirate is about having fun and going on adventures. Not having fun because you don't have a good crew must be so sad." Luffy said and Logan couldn't help but agree with his words. Then Luffy hit his palm with his right fist and smiled at Logan "Yosh! You're right Logan. He should join us, the more crew members we have the bigger the party will be!" Luffy said and Logan started chuckling
Luffy really was a simple man after all. There he was ready to try different ways to convince his captain but it was this easy. "I'm really glad I joined your crew cap'n," Logan said and Luffy chuckled at him
"I'm glad you joined me as well Logan," Luffy said smiling, and then he moved his hands upwards "Now let's eat!" Luffy said and Logan chuckled at him. He tried to stand up but then his body gave out under him
"Ah that's right I forgot." Logan said as Luffy looked down at him in worry "Everything hurts. Sorry cap'n I can't move," Logan said as Luffy fused over him trying to find a way to carry him back to the restaurant.
Two sets of eyes looked at the scene with different emotions. The first one was Sanji. He looked at the scene in front of him while smoking a cigarette with a sense of longing. A part of him wanted to join them, to be a part of their crew, a thing Zeff noticed quite easily.
The other pair of eyes were staring at both straw hats like a hawk. Mihawk had gotten a good view of the fight and now it seems he had much to tell about those three new prospects to the redhead drunk.
A celebration noise was the first thing that hit Gin's ears when he started regaining consciousness. He started opening his eyes and was immediately surprised by the scene before him.
Every single cook, waiter, and member of the staff were eating and drinking celebrating their victory against Don Krieg. "Welcome back Gin," The former commander of the Don Kreig pirates heard someone speak on his right
Gin looked to his right and saw Logan sitting next to him looking at him in slight worry. Gin tried to stand up but then the pain of his injuries started to show themselves.
"Easy there partner. We patch you up but we ain't what you call a healer," Logan said helping Gin lean back. Gin put his back against one of the walls of the restaurant
"What happened?" Gin asked rubbing his head and trying to get rid of the massive headache
"Well after your loss. Your crew members scrambled and took what was left of your ship and left." Logan explained as Gin's eyes grew big in shock "I'm sorry partner," Logan said in pity
"Don't be," Gin said shaking his head "They did what was best for them. I can't blame them," Gin said and Logan nodded then reached for something on his right
"Here eat this," Logan said giving Gin a bowl of rice with some chicken on top "Zeff made it and now we're waiting for Sanji's soup," Logan said and Gin could practically taste Sanji's food just by imagining it
Logan saw the former Krieg pirate take the bowl and start eating it with gusto "So, do you have any plan or idea for what to do next Gin?" Logan asked crossing his legs and reaching for a bottle of whiskey that he had lying around.
"I don't know," Gin said after a few bites of his meal "All I know is that I want to get back to the grand line. And prove I can do it. Conquer it you know," Gin said while looking down at his bowl
"With a new crew?" Logan asked in genuine curiosity taking a sip from the bottle. Gin shrugged and just kept eating his meal "How 'bout you join us, partner?" Logan asked and Gin chocked on his food
"Wha?" Gin asked in shock as he looked at Logan in confusion "You want me to join you and the straw hat?" Gin asked as Logan looked to where Luffy was
"Yo cap'n!" Logan shouted and Luffy turned around with food in his mouth "He can join our crew right!?" Logan shouted. Luffy looked at him and nodded his head vigorously before getting back to his meal.
"B-But why?" Gin asked and Logan gave the bottle to Gin to help him pass the chocked food
"Freedom is something that can be found on the Grand Line," Logan said to Gin who looked at him in full seriousness "Like I told you. You just need a good crew behind your back." Logan said before putting a hand forward for Gin to grasp
"Let's conquer the grand line together Gin!" Logan said a moment that was just between them. Luffy had left recruitment to him feeling Gin would find a kindred spirit with Logan.
Gin looked down at the bottle in deep thought. Then he looked at Logan's hand before taking a big sip from the battle "Yeah what the hell." Gin said grasping Logan's hand "I will never feel that fear again. I vow it!" Gin said and Logan gave him a huge smile before turning towards his captain
"Luffy!" Logan shouted as Luffy turned around once more with cheeks full of food "We got a new crew member!" He said and Luffy's eyes became stars
"Yosh!" Luffy said before looking at all the people gathered around moving his hands upwards with a big smile on his face "Everyone! Let's celebrate!" Luffy shouted as every member of the Baratie raised their cups in celebration
The place rocked a bit thanks to the noise and Gin couldn't help but smile at the celebration. Maybe it could be considered a rushed decision, but Gin thought he had made the right one. He will never be cowered again. Not while he was in this crew.
Then amidst the celebration the kitchen doors opened, revealing the sous chef of this restaurant with a big casserole on his hands. Sanji walked to the table where everyone was gathered and put the casserole in the middle of the table.
"Everyone! Dig in!" Sanji said with a smile on his face before serving two bowls of the soup to Gin and Logan who couldn't move that far thanks to their injuries
They thanked him for the food and started eating. He may be a pervert but he was really a good cook. But apparently, only he, Gin, and Luffy were the ones who thought that. He saw every single waiter and cook promptly spit the soup out.
"Wha-" Gin started saying wondering what was happening but Logan put a hand in front of him. Something else was happening and Logan was telling him to watch silently.
After all the commotion created by the waiters, Zeff stood up and took a sip out of the soup. Even though he finished it all he still proceeded to call it disgusting just like the others. Sanji, already on the verge of losing it, rushed at the head chef and grabbed him by the collar.
"You old decrepit man. What do you know about cooking good meals!?" Sani said and Zeff looked at him in irritation and then kicked his cheek sending Sanji to the floor
"You damm brat! You are so far off to be teaching me about cooking!" Zeff said. Logan could see the cook coursing on his mind so he put his meal down and managed to stand up.
"I'll be right back. Make sure our captain doesn't do anything stupid," Logan whispered to Gin who nodded. Still getting used to calling another man captain.
The cowboy went outside following Sanji who was throwing a tantrum in the air. It was kind of funny. Then he saw the pervert cook land near the entrance and walked up to him.
He took out his lighter and helped Sanji light his cigarette while taking out one for himself. "Think they know we can hear them?" Logan asked looking behind Sanji as both could hear the people inside talking about how they wanted Sanji to follow his own path
"Those idiots? No, I don't think so," Sanji said blowing a smoke out then he looked up towards the cowboy "Can I ask you a question?" Sanji said receiving a nod from Logan "How is it like? Being on that rubber idiot's crew?" Sanji asked and Logan didn't take offense to that insult.
That was who Sanji was. A bit crude and rude but a good man overall. So he just decided to answer him "Fun," Logan said simply surprising Sanji a bit.
"I overheard your talk with Luffy earlier. The all blue huh?" Logan asked and Sanji blushed a bit and looked away "What a crazy dream. You'll fit right in," Logan said amused and Sanji's eyes grew big and looked at the cowboy who was looking ahead towards the sea.
"Out there are mysteries still unanswered. Treasures left to be discovered. And history left untold. It is my ambition to learn and find everything there is to find." Logan said without looking at Sanji.
Then he took a final drag and threw the cigarette away before looking back at Sanji "I'll be the man who finds the One Piece. And I will make my captain King. That is my dream," Logan said before walking past Sanji.
"If I could offer some advice Sanji," Logan said putting a hand on the door and looking down at Sanji "If you wait too long to take action. Life will pass you by," Logan said opening the door. And walking inside.
Leaving the sous Chef of the Baratie to ponder some things. It seems his decision was made. He would leave this place to go on an adventure.
"Thanks again for letting us use this boat partners," Logan said. They were leaving this place. Yosaku had come back and warned them about not entering the place Nami had gone without protection.
And that sent Luffy and Logan overdrive. Just like Logan had said if they wanted to get Nami back they needed to leave as quickly as possible. So right now Gin and Logan were putting some supplies they had left into a ship the crew had given to them.
"Don't worry. It is Sanji's boat. And besides, it's the least we can do for you guys." One of the waiters said as Logan nodded in thankfulness.
Another thing. It seems the cook had decided to join them after all. Logan's words and Zeff's words had helped his decision.
"Yosh! Let's get our navigator back!" Luffy said and Logan sweat dropped at the massive bag of food he had but decided not to comment back.
Gin had started preparing the boat while the other three waited for Sanji. All the waiters were waiting outside to say goodbye but the blond cook passed by all of them and went straight to the boat.
"Let's go," Sanji said, and both Luffy and Logan were confused as to why he didn't want to say goodbye but just shrugged their shoulders and decided if that's how he wanted to go then they would not stand in his way.
But before Sanji could step inside the boat a call from Zeff stopped him in his tracks. He told him to take care and that was all that was needed for Sanji to become a crying mess.
"Mr. Zeff! Thank you for all you have done for me all these years!" Sanji shouted bowing his head into the platform facing all the staff members from the restaurant.
And as Logan looked at the emotional goodbye he couldn't help but feel nostalgic. He hid his eyes behind his hat as memories started flowing through his mind. Memories of the old man who saved him a while ago. The same old man who gifted Logan with his sword.
The one who taught him how to be a monster in order to survive.
End of Chapter 6