Disclaimer: Like everybody else on fanfiction, I own nothing. Naruto belongs to Masashi Kishimoto, and One Piece belongs to Eiichiro Oda.
"Standard" - Normal Speaking
"Italics" - Thoughts
"Bold" Tailed Beasts speaking and Techniques
(Two Weeks Later)
Naruto Uzumaki had faced down a goddess and survived the end of his own world. But as he gripped the creaking helm of the marine battleship, teeth clenched and eyes narrowed in frustration, he couldn't help but think that this. Sailing through the icy, treacherous waters of the North Blue was the hardest thing he'd ever done.
He didn't mind the cold but the ship's wood. The ship shuddered with every gust of wind, lurching dangerously close to the jagged, frozen monoliths. Naruto's hands were raw from gripping the wheel too tightly, his knuckles white as he fought to keep the vessel on course.
"Damn it!" he shouted as his voice was carried by the howling wind. "Why is this so much harder than it looks?"
Dozens of shadow clones swarmed the deck, their frantic movements mirroring his own desperation. They tugged at the ropes, tried to adjust the sails, and called out warnings of approaching icebergs, but it was all barely controlled chaos. Despite the sheer number of clones, the ship continued to veer off course, narrowly avoiding one iceberg, only to careen toward another.
"Can't one of you idiots steer this thing straight for over two minutes?!" Naruto bellowed, glaring at the nearest clone, who looked just as flustered as he felt.
"I'm trying, boss!" the clone yelled back, its hands slipping on the frozen ropes as it struggled to keep the sails in check. "But this ship's a nightmare to control!"
Naruto growled in frustration, kicking the base of the helm. "I'm a ninja, not a damn sailor!" he muttered to himself, though the words were lost in the cacophony of creaking wood and crashing waves.
The North Blue was nothing like the seas he had imagined. There was no freedom here, only a relentless battle against the elements, where the ocean itself seemed determined to swallow him whole. Every new iceberg that appeared out of the mist felt like a personal affront, as if this sea were mocking his lack of skill.
But Naruto was stubborn. As another colossal iceberg loomed ahead, he set his jaw and tightened his grip on the helm. He'd survived worse, and he wasn't about to let some oversized ice cubes get the better of him. Still, he couldn't help but think that a little less drama in his life wouldn't be such a bad thing right about now.
Frustration consumed him as he battled against the towering icebergs, their jagged edges glistening ominously in the sunlight. For three long weeks, he tirelessly sought a way to navigate around these treacherous obstacles, only to be thrown back into the unforgiving embrace of the 'not-so-calm' Calm Belt. The air was thick with tension, the sound of crashing waves and groaning ice filling his ears. The bitter cold bit at his skin, leaving him with a constant chill that seeped into his bones. Despite the passing of three weeks, the storm continued to rage, and the haunting voices under the water made him eager to leave as quickly as he could.
Naruto leaned heavily on the helm, the bitter cold of the North Blue seeping into his bones. The creaking of the ship and the constant struggle to avoid the icebergs were relentless, but something else gnawed at him even more. A deep, aching loneliness.
Despite the dozens of shadow clones bustling about the deck, Naruto felt an emptiness that none of them could fill. Each clone was a part of him, a fragment of his being, but they were just that, fragments. They lacked the warmth, the companionship of real people. Before: Unlike his friends, they couldn't crack a joke or share a meal. They couldn't offer the comfort of a simple, genuine smile.
Naruto's grip on the helm tightened as a wave of sorrow washed over him. He had always fought to protect his friends, to never let them feel the pain of loneliness that he had endured. But now, there were no friends left to protect. Just him, his clones, and the endless, freezing ocean.
A heavy sigh escaped his lips, and then a flutter of wings caught his attention.
Naruto looked up, squinting against the glare of the sun reflecting off the ice. A small, speckled bird, a News Coo, was swooping down toward the ship, its wings beating steadily against the icy wind. In its beak, it carried a rolled-up newspaper, a simple object that held the promise of connection to a world beyond the isolation of the North Blue.
The bird landed gracefully on the ship's railing, dropping the newspaper at Naruto's feet before ruffling its feathers and letting out a soft coo. Naruto stared at the paper for a moment, then bent down to pick it up. As he unrolled it, the familiar scent of ink and newsprint brought a small, fleeting smile to his face.
"Thanks, little guy," Naruto muttered, his voice rough with emotion. He hadn't realized just how much he craved even this small, simple connection to something beyond his own thoughts and memories.
Naruto placed a wad of Berries into the News-Coo's pouch, watching as the bird chirped in thanks before taking off into the sky. He unfolded the newspaper and glanced at the front page, his eyes narrowing as he read the headline:
"North Blue's Calm Belt: Unnatural Storms Continue to Ravage Seas"
*By Marina Wren, North Blue Correspondent*
For the past several weeks, sailors, merchants, and marines navigating the North Blue and the New World have reported an eerie and increasingly dangerous phenomenon on the Calm Belt that divided the New World from North Blue: a series of perpetual storms that show no signs of dissipating, these storms have been described as unnatural, with black lightning tinged with red ripping through the sky.
Ships had attempted to cross the once Calm Belt only to have faced relentless waves and winds, forcing many to abandon their routes or risk being lost at sea. Survivors speak of skies that are never clear and a chilling, oppressive atmosphere that hangs over the waters like a curse.
"Like all other Calm Belts, that Calm Belt used to be impossible for most to go through because of the lack of currents and winds in the area, also it's a breeding ground for Sea Kings," said one veteran Marine who narrowly escaped the chaos. "But now, it's like the ocean and the sky are at war against themselves and us. That black and red lightning... it's not like anything I've ever seen... People pass out from it."
The strange storms have sparked widespread concern and speculation among the residents of the North Blue. Some whisper of ancient curses or long-forgotten sea monsters awakening from the depths. Others believe it to be the work of a powerful Devil Fruit user, though no such individual has been identified.
What's more unsettling is the refusal of the world's leading scientist, Dr. Vegapunk, to comment on the phenomenon. When approached for an explanation, the enigmatic genius declined to provide any insight, fuelling rumors that even he might be in the dark or worse, that he knows more than he's willing to reveal.
As the storms continue to rage, the North Blue Calm Belt remains a perilous and unpredictable stretch of sea. Sailors are advised to avoid the area until further notice, though for many, the storms have become an unavoidable reality, blocking key trade routes and disrupting the flow of goods and information.
For now, all eyes remain on the horizon, waiting to see if these unnatural storms will ever pass or if they're just the beginning of something much darker.
Naruto lowered the newspaper. He glanced south, where the horizon was shrouded in dark, churning clouds, flickers of red-tinted lightning illuminating the sky. The storms he had read about were unmistakably linked to his actions. He knew that all too well.
As he steered the ship away from the approaching storm, a distant, echoing voice drifted into his mind. It was faint, almost imperceptible, but there it was, a murmur at the edge of his consciousness, talking to others as he drifted closer to the Calm Belt.
Naruto shook his head, trying to push the voice out of his head and focus on passing these icebergs that had been formed because of these storms and stared at the stormy horizon for a few more moments, then turned his attention back to the task at hand. He couldn't let the storm he had created keep him from. There were still people he could reach out to, and perhaps one of them could help him understand what was happening in the North Blue.
With a determined sigh, Naruto reached into his coat and pulled out a small, white Den-Den Mushi, a special type of snail transponder that Dr. Vegapunk had given him before he left Egghead Island. The three weeks he had spent there were still fresh in his mind. It was a bizarre place, full of wonders he could hardly comprehend, and the eccentric scientist had been unlike anyone he had ever met.
Before he had left, Vegapunk had worked on cultivating a new right arm for him, a request he had made that Vegapunk had agreed to in part because Naruto had saved his life. The scientist's gratitude had been genuine, but Naruto knew there was more to it. Naruto body and genes held an unspoken curiosity and knowledge, and Vegapunk wanted to understand it.
Naruto shook off the memories and focused on the Den-Den Mushi. He carefully attached it to the ship's regular Den-Den Mushi, connecting the two devices as Vegapunk had instructed. Once everything was in place, Naruto took a deep breath and dialled the number Dr. Vegapunk had given him, hoping to get some answers about the strange storms that plagued the Calm Belt.
The snail's eyes blinked lazily as it connected the call, and after a few moments, the receiver clicked. But instead of Vegapunk's familiar voice, a different one answered, a voice Naruto recognized instantly.
"Hello?" came the casual, somewhat distracted voice of York, one of Vegapunk's satellite. "Who's this? I'm a little busy right now."
Naruto blinked in surprise, then frowned as he heard the faint sound of water running in the background. "York? It's Naruto. What's going on over there?"
There was a brief pause, followed by the sound of a toilet flushing. "Oh, Naruto! Hey there! Sorry about that. I'm in the middle of something," York replied nonchalantly. "You caught me at a... well, let's just say I'm multitasking."
Naruto rolled his eyes, though he couldn't help but smirk a little at York's casual attitude. "Right... Anyway, I called because I need to talk to Dr. Vegapunk. It's about these storms in the North Blue. The newspaper said Vegapunk refused to comment. Do you know what's going on?"
York's voice became a bit more serious as she responded. "Yeah, about that... Vegapunk's been pretty tight-lipped lately. The truth is, he doesn't know what's causing it, and that's why he hasn't said anything. He's been doing some research, but so far, nothing's adding up. And now, he's been summoned to Marijoa by the Five Elder Stars. It's a big deal, so he left Egghead a week ago."
Naruto furrowed his brow in confusion. "The Five Elder Stars? Who are they?"
York let out a small sigh, as if she was considering how to explain. "The Five Elder Stars are the highest-ranking members of the World Government. They're the ones who make the big decisions, the real power behind everything. If they've called Vegapunk to Marijoa, it means they're worried about what's happening, or they think he's got something to do with it. Either way, it's serious."
"York," Naruto said, his voice more urgent now, "is there anything I can do? If Vegapunk doesn't know what's causing this, maybe I can help. I'm... kind of involved in all this."
York hesitated for a moment before responding. "Naruto, I'm not sure what you can do right now. Vegapunk's going to be in Marijoa for a while, and until he's back, there's not much we can figure out. But if you're saying you're involved... just be careful. The Calm Belt isn't the same as it used to be, and whatever's out there, it's dangerous."
Naruto nodded, though York couldn't see it. "I will. Thanks, York. And tell Vegapunk I'll be in touch."
York chuckled softly. "Sure thing, Naruto. Stay safe out there."
The line went dead, and Naruto set the receiver down and stared at the stormy horizon for a long moment before deciding what to do next. The conversation with York had given him some clarity, but he knew he couldn't face whatever was coming alone. His mind drifted to his crew, the ragtag group of misfits and warriors he had come to trust during his time in this strange new world. They had been split up after his death and resurrection, scattered across the seas. But now, more than ever, he needed to hear their voices.
Naruto reached for the Den-Den Mushi again and dialed the number that would connect him to his crew. The snail blinked a few times before the receiver clicked, and a familiar, energetic voice answered and in the background, there were three arguing.
"Shut up, you three! Someone is calling..." Yamato's voice exclaimed.
Naruto couldn't help but smile at the sound of her voice. "Yamato! It's me, Naruto."
"Naruto!" Yamato's voice brightened even more, and Naruto could almost see her grinning on the other end. "It's so good to hear from you! How are you holding up out there?"
Naruto felt his heart relax a little, the tension from the storm and his isolation easing with each word. "I'm managing... sort of. It's been rough, though. I've been trying to navigate through the North Blue, but these icebergs are giving me a hard time. Honestly, I'm terrible at steering this ship. I keep running into things."
Yamato laughed, the sound warm and comforting. "That sounds like you, all right? I wish I could be there to help you out. Where exactly are you?"
"Somewhere between the Calm Belt and North Blue, it's been a mess," Naruto admitted, rubbing the back of his head as he talked to Yamato. "I'm trying to avoid the worst of the storms, but it's like the sea is out to get me. I've never been good at this kind of thing."
As they spoke, another voice chimed in on the line. "Is that Naruto? Give me the Den-Den Mushi!"
Naruto chuckled as the voices of Ulti and Page One, two of his fierier crewmates, came through. "Hey, Naruto! It's Ulti! What's taking you so long to get here? We've been waiting forever!"
"Yeah!" Page One added, sounding as grumpy as ever.
Naruto laughed, the warmth in his chest growing. "Sorry, guys. I'm kind of stuck in a maze of icebergs right now. But don't worry, I'll find a way through. How are things on your end?"
Before they could answer, a smaller and sweeter voice joined the conversation. "Naruto! It's Tama! Are you okay?"
Naruto's heart melted at the sound of Tama's voice. She was like a little sister to him, and hearing her concern reminded him of the bonds he had formed with his crew. "I'm okay, Tama. Just a bit frustrated with this ship and my sailing skills. How are you doing?"
"I'm good! I miss you, though," Tama replied softly. "Are you coming back soon?"
Naruto sighed, wishing he could be with them all. "I'll be back as soon as I can. I promise."
There was a brief pause, and then Yamato spoke up again, her voice reassuring him. "Naruto, we're near Deul Kingdom waters... Page One told me would reach there in a couple of hours."
Naruto felt a surge of gratitude toward his crew as he looked at the maps on the battleship navigation room. "Thanks, Yamato. That island is one of the closest to the Grand line Entrance in North Blue."
-East Blue-
It was three weeks since Jashin set foot into the world and this island was his first offering to Jashin and if he had a misgiving about Black Zetsu sending him to this dimension was; Black Zetsu sent him straight into the middle of an ocean. He found an island two days later, but it was uninhabited. He spent a week on that island just raving in anger, before he walked across the ocean again looking for something until he found it in the middle of the three days later. An island inhabited by hundreds of people who all had silver hair and identical noses. They all dress identically and wear triangular face paint on their faces.
In a single night the island was heavy with the scent of blood and burning flesh as Hidan walked through the smoldering ruins of the village. The moon hung high in the sky, casting an eerie glow over the devastation. Bodies lay scattered across the ground, twisted in unnatural positions, their faces frozen in expressions of terror. Hidan's scythe was covered in the blood of those he killed, and when the red drops fell on the burned ground, they made a sizzling sound.
The island had been a pitiful excuse for civilization, inhabited by a tribe of savage cannibals who called themselves the Kumate. They had believed themselves to be the ultimate predators, living off the flesh of anyone unfortunate enough to wash up on their shores. But tonight, they had met a predator far beyond their comprehension.
Hidan walked through the village with a casual stride, his expression one of twisted satisfaction. The thrill of the massacre still hummed in his veins, a feeling that only his devotion to Jashin could provide. But there was a purpose to his madness tonight he was hunting.
The last of the Kumate warriors, a hulking brute of a man, crawled weakly along the ground, his legs shattered and his breath ragged. Hidan loomed over him, dragging his scythe behind him with a metallic scrape. The warrior's eyes were wide with fear, but there was something else there too, confusion. He didn't understand why this pale stranger had come to their island, why he had slaughtered his people so effortlessly.
Hidan crouched down, gripping the man by the hair and yanking his head up to meet his gaze. "I'm looking for someone," Hidan said, his voice laced with cruel amusement. "Uzumaki Naruto. Blond hair, blue eyes, wears an obnoxious orange jacket. Heard of him?"
The warrior's eyes flickered with confusion again, and he shook his head weakly. "Don't... know... that name," he gasped out, his voice barely a whisper.
Hidan's grin widened, his teeth gleaming in the moonlight. "You don't know him? How disappointing. And here I thought you might be useful." He paused for a moment, as if considering something. "Who are you then? What do you call yourselves?"
The warrior coughed, blood splattering onto the ground as he struggled to speak. "Kumate... Tribe... We... are... the Kumate..."
Hidan's expression shifted to one of mild interest. "Kumate, huh? Cannibals, right? You feast on human flesh? How quaint."
The warrior's eyes closed, his strength fading as he muttered a final, desperate plea. "Please... spare... me..."
Hidan laughed, a cold, mirthless sound that echoed through the empty village. "Spare you? Why would I do that? You're nothing but a worm squirming in the dirt. Besides, I'm feeling generous tonight. I'll send you to Jashin-sama personally. Maybe he'll find your soul amusing."
With that, Hidan raised his scythe and brought it down with brutal precision, severing the warrior's head in one clean stroke. Blood sprayed into the air, and Hidan revelled in the sensation as it splattered across his face and clothes. He stood there for a moment, savoring the kill before something else caught his attention, a presence, faint but unmistakable, lingering in the air.
Hidan's eyes narrowed, his breath hitching as he felt it. It was a feeling he knew all too well, and he missed it, one that sent a shiver of excitement down his spine. The presence of Jashin. It was here, on this planet. He could feel his god's gaze upon him, watching, judging, perhaps even pleased with the offering Hidan had made.
"Of course... I heard rumors that the Uzumaki Clan and Jashin-sama were linked, but I never believed the heretics..." A crazed grin spread across Hidan's face as he raised his arms to the sky, blood still dripping from his hands. "Jashin-sama... You're on this planet, aren't you? Uzumaki Naruto took you away, didn't he?! He used you and sealed away somewhere?"
The presence lingered, silent but palpable, filling Hidan with a sense of purpose. He didn't need words to know what Jashin wanted. He will give his lord more blood, more sacrifice, more devotion. Now hunting Naruto was something personal. He will Naruto the heretic, and Hidan would carve a path of destruction across the seas if that's what it took to find him. Jashin's will would be done, and Hidan would be the instrument of his god's desires.
With a final, satisfied smirk, Hidan turned and walked away from the village, leaving the burning remains of the Kumate Tribe behind him. With the night far from over, there remained countless more souls to be sent to Jashin's embrace as he took a bloody step onto the island's shores, leaving a mist of blood to seep into the salty waters and the ocean beyond and into the world.
(Three Days Later)
-Deul Island-
Over Deul Island, the sun hung high, its rays of warmth flooding the vibrant harbor with a beautiful golden hue. Activity thrived on the island, with merchants bargaining for goods, fishermen bringing in their recent haul, and travelers from all corners of the globe mingling on the docks. After their long journey, it was the ideal location for Yamato and the crew to rest and stock up on supplies and it was one of the closest islands to the Grand Line entrance. They had been away from Wano for three months, and it had been three days since Naruto informed them of his successful passage through the dangerous icebergs. Upon hearing the news, Yamato experienced a feeling of relief. They could rest easy knowing that Naruto was safe and would be joining them shortly.
Yamato stood at the edge of the harbor, the salty breeze tousling her wild white hair tipped with blue and green as she scanned the horizon. Her heart raced with anticipation. She hadn't seen Naruto since they parted ways, and the thought of reuniting with him filled her with a mixture of excitement and longing.
But as she watched the waves lapping against the shore as night came for the island, a strange sight caught her eye. A large Marine Battleship was making its way toward the docks in the middle of the night, its sails billowing in the wind. Yamato frowned, her instincts immediately on alert.
Her suspicions only grew when she noticed the soldiers on deck, all dressed in crisp marine uniforms, rifles slung over their shoulders. The crew worked with an unusual precision, almost as if they were all moving in perfect sync. Yamato's eyes narrowed. Something wasn't right.
As the battleship docked, the marine soldiers began to disembark, marching in formation as they fanned out across the empty harbor. Yamato tensed, her hand instinctively reaching for her kanabo as she watched them approach. Ulti and Page One, who were standing at the ship railings. Their expressions mirrored her own confusion as they stared at the approaching marines.
"Hey, you!" One soldier barked at them. "You're under arrest for piracy! That ship..."
"Like hell we are!" Ulti snarled, her fierce temper flaring as she reached for her Morningstar. Without hesitation, she lunged at the nearest soldier, swinging her weapon with deadly force. The soldier moved to block the attack, but Yamato noticed something odd. His movements were eerily familiar, almost too familiar.
Page One was quick to join the fray, hefting his massive Kabutowari, the giant axe and hammer, as he charged another group of soldiers. The weapons clashed with a thunderous sound, but again, the soldiers moved with an uncanny agility that made Yamato's suspicion grow.
Tama, still holding her Katana, looked nervous but determined as she stood beside Yamato. "Yamato, what's going on? These marines... they feel familiar!"
"Don't worry, Tama," Yamato said, her voice steady with resolve. "I think I know exactly what's going on. Get ready. We're about to turn the tables on him."
Tama nodded, determination shining in her eyes. She tightened her grip on her Katana, and as she did, a faint purple and blue chakra glow began to emanate from her. The power of Nue stirred within her, a gift that had taken time to master, but one she had grown more confident in using. Despite being a teenager, physically and mentally still a child, Tama was proving to be a formidable warrior in her own right.
The battle erupted into chaos as Ulti and Page One continued to clash with the soldiers. But Yamato, with her sharp instincts, had already figured out what to do. She raised her kanabo and charged at the nearest group of marines, her movements fluid and powerful. As she brought her weapon down, the soldier she struck burst into a puff of smoke, revealing the truth. He was nothing more than a shadow clone of Naruto.
"Just as I thought!" Yamato exclaimed, her grin widening. "Naruto, you're going to pay for this!"
Meanwhile, Naruto, in his marine disguise, was watching the chaos unfold from a nearby rooftop, his laughter barely contained. He had transformed his face using his transformation jutsu, making him look like an imposing marine officer, and his clones were doing an excellent job of keeping his crewmates on their toes. He had to admit, the prank was going even better than he'd planned.
But his amusement was short-lived as he saw Yamato charging straight toward him, her eyes blazing with determination. He barely had time to react before she was upon him, swinging her kanabo with enough force to shatter the rooftop beneath him.
"Yamato, wait! It's me!" Naruto yelped, dropping his transformation jutsu in the nick of time.
Yamato's attack halted as Naruto caught it and she recognized him. Her expression softened, but her eyes still held a mischievous glint. "Naruto, you idiot! You really thought you could pull this off without us figuring it out?"
Naruto chuckled sheepishly, scratching the back of his head. "I thought I'd get at least a few more minutes of fun out of it."
Yamato laughed and Naruto ordered the rest of the clones dispersed in puffs of smoke, revealing the prank for what it was. Joining them on the rooftop with a single bound, Ulti, Page One, and Tama regrouped with Yamato and Naruto, all of them catching their breath after the intense but ultimately harmless skirmish.
"You had us going there for a moment, Naruto," Ulti grumbled, though she was struggling to hide her smile underneath the clothed mask of hers. "But next time, you're the one who's going to get pranked!"
Page One nodded in agreement, still holding Kabutowari before clipping the blunt sword into his belt.
Naruto took a deep breath, and his eyes scanned the faces of his crew, and a warm smile tugged at the corners of his lips. "I missed you guys," he admitted, his voice soft but full of sincerity. "It's been way too long. Three months and something was it?"
Yamato nodded in agreement, Ulti and Page One exchanged a glance, their typical bickering momentarily forgotten in the face of their captain's return. Tama, standing a bit apart from the others, looked up at Naruto with her wide, curious eyes.
Naruto's gaze drifted to her, noticing the determination that seemed to linger just beneath the surface of her young, yet battle-hardened, demeanor. He crouched down to her level, peering into her eyes with a gentle yet knowing look. "How's Nue doing?" he asked, his tone light but full of understanding.
Tama shifted uncomfortably, her hands gripping the hilt of her katana. "It's... complicated," she admitted, her voice tinged with frustration. "Sometimes I feel like I can talk to him, but other times, it's like he's a million miles away."
Naruto nodded, a flicker of empathy crossing his face. "I know that feeling all too well," he said softly. "Nue isn't just a power for you to wield; he's someone, someone you have to understand and trust. It's not always easy, but with time, you'll understand him, just like I did with Kurama."
Tama's eyes widened in surprise, curiosity lighting up her face. "Who's Kurama?" she asked, tilting her head slightly.
Naruto chuckled, ruffling her hair affectionately. "That's a story for another time, Tama-chan," he said with a wink. "Right now, we've got other things to take care of."
Standing up, Naruto turned to address the rest of the crew. "Alright, let's get our stuff off that pirate ship you guys stole," he said, pointing toward the docked vessel of the Bellamy Pirates. "I'm going to seal the Marine battleship into a storage scroll. It's too recognizable to keep out in the open in North Blue."
As they began moving toward the pirate ship, Yamato stepped forward and handed Naruto a storage scroll. He glanced at it curiously before realizing what it was. "This... is the original ship we were supposed to escape on from Wano, isn't it?"
Yamato nodded, a faint smile playing on her lips. "Yeah. It's one of my dad's fleet ships. We stole it together and then you and Nue teleported it to the middle of an island to save us from my father's fiery breath. The long-range cannons and the reinforced hull make it one of the best for naval warfare. Even if it is heavily damaged, we could use all the firepower we can get. You sealed it in that incorporeal blue energy form of yours."
Naruto remembers the fuzzy memories when he was stuck outside of his body, trying to link back his soul to his body, getting linked to his Vivre Cards. He then took the scroll with a nod of gratitude, his expression thoughtful as he turned it over in his hands. "Thanks, Yamato. I am pretty sure there is someone or someplace that could repair that ship..."
As they began transferring their belongings off the pirate ship, Yamato's gaze caught on something unusual underneath Naruto's cloak. Naruto's right arm or what had remained of his right arm, his arm and elbow were wrapped in bandages and the rest of his arm was missing.
Ulti noticed it too, and she frowned, her usual brashness softened by concern. "Naruto, what happened to your arm?" she asked, her voice uncharacteristically serious.
The others paused, their attention now focused on Naruto. He hesitated for a moment, glancing down at his bandaged arm as if considering how much to say. Finally, he let out a small sigh. "Kaido," he said simply, the name heavy with all the pain and memories it carried.
Guilt and shame filled Yamato as she looked away from Naruto as a hot lump was in her throat. She then forced the feelings down as she becomes more interested in looking at her kanabo then Naruto.
Naruto shook off the somber mood with a determined grin. "But hey, I'm still here, and so are all of you. We survived, and that's what matters."
Yamato stared at Naruto back as he walked to the edge of harbor and sat staring at the ocean with peaceful eyes.
"He changed..." thought Yamato with mixed feelings of happiness and sadness, "He is different from before. There was less weight on his shoulders, and he feels wiser. But there is still something wrong... What the hell happened to you when you died, Naruto?"
Standing at the edge of the harbor, the marine cloak that Naruto stole was on his lap as he gazed out over the horizon. His eyes flickered with thoughts as his crew bustled about, gathering their belongings from the pirate ship they had commandeered two months ago. Ulti, ever the blunt one, approached him with a curious expression.
"Why are we moving our stuff?" she asked, her voice carrying a mix of annoyance and confusion. "What's the point if we're just gonna use another ship?"
Naruto turned to face her, his expression serious. "That ship belonged to a crew that was under Donquixote Doflamingo's command," he explained, his tone laced with a hint of caution. "I've heard things while I was with Whitebeard's crew. Doflamingo is trouble, and the kind of trouble we don't want following us around. I'm planning to burn the ship and any evidence that links us to that island."
Ulti frowned, processing the information. "A warlord chasing us, huh? Sounds like a pain."
Naruto nodded, his gaze distant, as if trying to recall something. "My memory's fuzzy about what happened back there, but I'm pretty sure I knocked him out," he added, his voice trailing off as he tried to piece together the details of his encounter with the infamous warlord. But before anyone could press him further, he quickly changed the subject.
"Oh, by the way," Naruto said, a small smile forming on his lips, "Ace has joined the Whitebeard Pirates and has been promoted to Second Division Commander."
Yamato and Tama exchanged excited glances, their faces lighting up at the news. "We know!" they exclaimed in unison. "We've been following Ace's exploits in the newspaper."
Naruto grinned at their enthusiasm, but before he could say more, Page One interrupted with a question. "So, are we heading back to the New World?"
Naruto shook his head, his expression thoughtful. "No, we're not going back there just yet," he said firmly. "We're heading to Paradise instead."
Page One looked puzzled, and Ulti raised an eyebrow. "Why Paradise?" Ulti asked, folding her arms across her chest.
Naruto began to explain, his voice steady as he outlined his reasons. "First, Tama needs more training and experience. The New World is no place for someone who isn't fully prepared. It'll kill her if she's not ready," he said, his tone protective as he glanced at the young girl. Tama looked up at him, determination in her eyes, but she didn't argue.
"Second," Naruto continued, "I need to get out of these waters. Too many people are sniffing around, trying to find me. It's safer to lie low for a while, and Paradise is the perfect place to do that."
"And third," Naruto added, his eyes meeting Yamato's, "Yamato wants to see the world that Oden saw. I promised her we'd do that, and I intend to keep that promise."
Yamato's eyes softened at his words, and she nodded. "I've been thinking a lot about Oden's Log Book," she said wistfully. "I left it on Onigashima, but it's tucked away in a secret spot."
Ulti, still processing all the information, frowned slightly. "Okay, so we're ditching all three ships we have now. But where are we supposed to cook a celebration dinner for you joining us Naruto, if we don't have a ship?"
Naruto chuckled, appreciating her practicality even amid everything. "Don't worry, Ulti. We'll make it work."
Naruto then stood up at the edge of the dock, his eyes scanning the crew as they completed their task. The stolen pirate ship, now devoid of anything valuable, rocked gently in the water, waiting for its final fate.
"Are you all done?" Naruto asked, his voice steady but tinged with anticipation.
Ulti, Yamato, and the others nodded in unison, confirming the task's completion. Page One stepped forward and casually tossed a bag toward Naruto. He caught it effortlessly with his left hand, the weight of it familiar in his hand. As he opened the bag, a small smile tugged at the corners of his lips at the sight of his belongings.
With the bag secured at his side, Naruto turned his attention to the pirate vessel that had once belonged to the Bellamy Pirates. His expression hardened, and he raised his left hand. The surrounding air began to shift, the wind picking up as he channelled his chakra into his palm. The gust built rapidly, a swirling vortex of wind that crackled with energy. Naruto's gaze remained fixed on the ship as the wind intensified, the force contained in his hand growing more powerful by the second.
He could feel the energy coursing through him, the wind spiralling in his grip, sharp and controlled. The ship before him, now an empty shell, was a reminder of the chaos they had left behind, tied to a world they needed to sever.
With a sharp exhale, Naruto unleashed the wind. The gust erupted from his palm with a deafening roar, a spiraling torrent that cut through the air like a blade. It struck the pirate vessel with a force that sent the ship's wooden planks splintering and sails tearing. The wind howled as it ripped through the ship, dismantling it piece by piece, scattering debris across the water's surface.
As the ship crashed, the scent of saltwater mixed with the smell of splintering wood, and the harbor was filled with the echoes of its destruction. With each passing second, the sinking vessel released a faint scent of saltwater, as if bidding farewell to its former glory.
Naruto lowered his hand, the wind dissipating as quickly as it had come. He watched the last pieces of the ship disappear beneath the water, leaving nothing but ripples and the faint memory of what had once been.
"Let's go," he said, turning to his crew, his voice calm but resolute. His left hand was on the pommel of one of his two blades.
"Go where?"
Naruto scanned the harbor, his eyes settling on a Brig sloop being constructed nearby. The ship, with its sleek lines and sturdy frame, was in the final stages of completion. The sight of it sparked an idea in his mind.
"That one," Naruto muttered to himself, pointing at the vessel. He strode over to the shipwrights, who were busy with the finishing touches. The lead shipwright, a burly man with a weathered face and a thick beard, noticed Naruto approaching and paused his work.
Naruto wasted no time. "How much for the sloop?" he asked, his tone direct.
The shipwright sized Naruto up, sensing the serious intent in his voice. "That ship's not for sale, kid," he replied gruffly. "It's been commissioned already."
Naruto frowned slightly, not deterred by the response. "Name your price,"
The shipwright crossed his arms, shaking his head. "This ship is commissioned by someone else. It's not about the money."
Naruto sighed, knowing he needed to sweeten the deal. He reached into his cloak and pulled out a large sack, the heavy jingling of coins and cash catching the attention of everyone nearby. With a determined look, Naruto opened the bag to reveal the contents and got out 30 Million Berries, leaving the rest of the 10 million Berries.
"Thirty million Berries," Naruto said, his voice firm as he held out the sack. "I suppose that enough for you..."
The shipwright's eyes widened, and the surrounding carpenters fell silent. The man's face turned pale as he stared at the enormous sum, beads of sweat forming on his brow. He had never seen so much money in one place, and the offer was impossible to ignore.
"Y-You're serious?" the shipwright stammered, his previous resolve crumbling at the large sum of money, "I shouldn't accept it but I need this money to get out of debt and repay the bank so me and my family don't get sold."
Naruto's expression softened slightly as he handed over the sack of Berries. "Good," he said, though his voice remained businesslike. "I have one more request."
He pulled out a small sketch he had drawn, a rough but clear design for the ship's figurehead. It was a symbol that held meaning for him, something personal that he wanted to carry forward into their next adventure.
The shipwright took the sketch with trembling hands, examining the design. "It's not finished yet, but we can make this happen," he assured Naruto, his voice still shaking from the shock of the earlier transaction.
Naruto nodded, satisfied. "I expect the ship to be ready in a day or two," he said before asking, "Is there an inn around here?"
In the cozy warmth of the inn, Naruto sat around a large wooden table with his crew, the fire crackling in the hearth nearby. The room was filled with the comforting smell of roasted meat and fresh bread, but Naruto's mind was elsewhere. His thoughts drifted back to the shipwright's dock, the sloop being constructed, and then to something far more pressing: the funding for his new arm, still in development by Dr. Vegapunk.
He leaned back in his chair; the wood creaking slightly under his weight, and closed his eyes for a moment. The three weeks he spent on Egghead Island with Vegapunk replayed in his mind. There was no denying the brilliance of Vegapunk, but the expense of conducting such innovative research was equally undeniable. He couldn't risk running out of funds. The new arm was essential, not just for the power it would bring, it could save his life down the road.
Naruto's thoughts were interrupted by the indistinct murmurs of conversation from a nearby table. His senses, sharp as ever, caught snippets of the talk something about a bank that held a stranglehold over the island, a bank that owned half the country. The whispers grew darker as the conversation turned to the bank's more nefarious practices: selling people's debts to slavers, ruining lives for profit.
His eyes snapped open, and he exchanged glances with Yamato, who had also picked up on the talk.
"What's on your mind, Naruto?" Yamato asked, her voice low but filled with curiosity.
Naruto's somber face turned into a wide grin. "I think it's time we made a little deposit... and then withdraw everything they have."
The others leaned in, eager to hear more. "There's a bank in this country that's doing some pretty horrible things," Naruto explained. "They're selling people's debts to slavers. I say we raze it to the ground and take everything they have. Use it to fund anything we need."
Ulti punched her palm with an eager expression. "I like the sound of that."
Page One smirked. "Are we doing this the usual way, or do you have something special in mind?"
A few days later, the ship was ready, and so was Naruto. With their new sloop anchored in the nearest harbor, the crew made their way to the bank under in board daylight. The streets were busy; the city was going on with it day, oblivious to the storm about to hit.
Naruto's transformed shadow clones slipped into the bank with practiced ease, sowing discord among the guards and staff. By the time the real Naruto and his crew walked in through the front door, the bank was already in disarray.
The bank director, a portly man with a greasy mustache and beady eyes, was in the middle of shouting orders when Naruto casually strolled up to him, Yamato and the others flanking him with wide, mocking grins.
"Can I help you?" the director snapped, unaware of who he was dealing
Naruto feigned surprise. "Oh, I think it's us who'll be helping you... get rid of all this unnecessary wealth."
The director's face turned crimson with anger, but before he could retort, Yamato stepped forward, her imposing presence enough to make him falter. "You see," she said with a smirk, "we're here to make a rather large withdrawal."
Ulti and Page One moved to the vaults, smashing through the reinforced doors with ease. The sound of gold bars and stacks of cash echoed through the halls as they began stuffing bags with everything the bank owns.
The director's eyes bulged in disbelief. "You!? What are you doing?! This is madness!"
Naruto leaned in close, his voice dripping with sarcasm. "Madness? No, this is just good business. We're putting your ill-gotten gains to better use."
As the Ulti and Page One continued to empty the bank's coffers, the director sank to his knees, his protests turning into incoherent babbling. Naruto couldn't resist one last jab. "By the way, those debts you've been selling? Consider them cancelled. And your bank? It's going out of business."
As the last of the bank's wealth exited the bank, Naruto turned back to the trembling director, who was still on his knees, his face a mix of fear and disbelief. The wealth he had, once symbols of his power and influence, was now gone, and with them, everything he had built his life around.
Naruto's expression darkened as he strolled toward the man, his footsteps echoing ominously in the grand hall. He paused just a few feet away, looking down at the quivering director, whose bravado had long since crumbled.
"You think you can profit off the misery of others, sell lives like they're nothing, and just walk away unscathed?" Naruto's voice was bitter, a stark contrast to his usual warmth. His blue eyes were like ice, piercing through the man who now realized just how serious the situation had become.
The director tried to speak, but his voice faltered. "P-please... spare me! I'll do anything! I-I didn't know who you were-"
Naruto cut him off with a sharp glare. "It doesn't matter who I am. What matters is what you've done. Lives ruined, families torn apart, all because of your greed. You've forfeited any right to mercy."
He raised his hand, gathering his chakra into his left palm. Naruto grinded the chakra and ripped it into, shaping it into swirling gusts. With a flick of his wrist, Naruto unleashed a blast of wind that caught the embers from a nearby torch, fanning them into a roaring flame. The fire spread rapidly, consuming the bank's opulent furnishings, devouring the stacks of paper records that chronicled countless transactions, each one a testament to the director's greed.
The director's eyes widened in horror as the flames closed in, the heat intensifying with each passing second. Naruto leaned down, his face inches from the director's as he spoke in a low, deadly tone.
"Your life has been forfeited," Naruto said, his words final and absolute. "Not by me, but by your own actions. The people you've wronged... this is the result. Even if I was not here, eventually someone would have ended this pitiful scheme and your life."
The man let out a desperate, panicked scream as the flames surged closer. Naruto watched the flames lick the clothes, his expression unreadable as says, "The Pure Lands will judge you, and for your sake you better the verdict is one that you hope for."
Naruto walked toward the exit. Yamato, Ulti, Page One, and Tama were waiting for him outside, their faces shocked and disturbed.
As Naruto and his crew walked away from the blazing bank, the silence between them was thick, weighed down by the gravity of what had just transpired. The flames roared behind them, casting flickering shadows that danced eerily on the cobblestone streets. But it wasn't the fire that left Yamato, Ulti, Page One, and Tama uneasy. It was Naruto's cold, unforgiving actions.
Yamato was the first to break the silence. "Naruto," she began, her voice unusually soft, almost hesitant, "was that... really necessary?"
Naruto didn't immediately answer, his eyes fixed straight ahead as they continued walking. When he finally spoke, his voice was calm but laced with a resolve that left little room for doubt. "He sold lives like they were merchandise, ruined by countless people. Leaving him alive would have been letting him off too easily."
Ulti clenched her fists, the normally brash and outspoken warrior suddenly at a loss for words. "But... burning him alive?" She shook her head, her usual bravado tempered by something she couldn't quite articulate. "That's... intense, even for you."
Page One, usually as stoic as his sister was fiery, nodded in agreement. "We've fought and killed before, but this... it's different. He was helpless."
Naruto stopped walking, turning to face his crew. His expression was serious, almost grim, but there was a flicker of something deeper in his eyes. Pain, regret, maybe even a touch of self-loathing. "You're right. It was intense. But sometimes, that's the only language people like him understand."
He looked at them, seeing the conflict in their eyes. "I won't ask you to agree with what I did," he continued. "But I need you to understand that in this world, there are some people who can't be allowed to keep walking around. What he did... what people like him do... it's not something I can forgive."
Tama, who had been silent until now, looked up at Naruto, her inexperienced eyes wide with confusion and something close to fear. "But... Naruto, aren't you supposed to protect people? How does this help them?"
Naruto's gaze softened as he looked at Tama. He kneeled down to her level, placing a hand gently on her shoulder. "I do protect people, Tama. But sometimes, protecting people means stopping those who hurt others, no matter the cost. It's a harsh truth, one I wish you didn't have to learn. But it's the reality of this world."
Tama nodded slowly, but it was clear she was struggling to reconcile the Naruto she knew with the one she'd just witnessed.
Yamato sighed, crossing her arms as she looked at the burning building in the distance. "I get it Naruto, I do. But you need to remember who we are. If you lose sight of that..."
Naruto nodded, standing back up. "I won't forget. And I won't let any of you forget either. What we did tonight was... We're not like him, we'll never be like him."
The others exchanged glances, the tension between them slowly easing, but the unease still lingered. They understood Naruto's reasoning, but it didn't erase the shock of watching a man burn to death, no matter how much he deserved it.
As they approached the ship's plank, the wooden boards creaking underfoot, Tama's small voice broke the uneasy silence. "Naruto," she asked hesitantly, her eyes searching his face for answers, "Is that how you killed Kurozumi Semimaru?"
Naruto's steps faltered as the memory rushed back to him in vivid detail: the old man with the banjo. Semimaru, who had protected Orochi with his impenetrable barriers, had been a key player in the oppression of Wano. When Naruto had confronted him, there had been no mercy. The flames he unleashed had engulfed the old man, consuming both the barrier and the sinister laughter that had echoed through the capital's streets.
He looked down at Tama, her innocent eyes filled with a mix of curiosity and something darker. Perhaps fear or confusion. She had asked so innocently, but the weight of her words felt like a punch to the gut. A fuzzy memory from the Pure Lands hit him like a ton of bricks. Tama was a Kurozumi.
Naruto swallowed hard, a wave of guilt washing over him. He couldn't let her know, not yet. That truth would have to stay buried until he could speak with Kozuki Sukiyaki, the one person who might help him navigate this delicate situation.
Before he could respond, Page One muttered nervously from behind him, his voice filled with unease. "Do you... have a habit of burning people alive?"
Naruto turned sharply, his glare enough to silence any further questions. His eyes narrowed, the weight of everything that had transpired, both tonight and in the past, pressing down on him. The old words of the Third Hokage echoed in his mind, words spoken long ago in a different world, under different circumstances. But they were words he needed now more than ever.
"When the tree leaves dance, One shall find flames. The fire's shadow will illuminate the village, and once again, tree leaves shall bud anew."
Naruto took a deep breath, forcing the memories and emotions back into the recesses of his mind. This wasn't the time to dwell on the past. He had to focus on the present, on his crew, and on the path ahead.
"Alright," he said, his voice steady and commanding as he turned to face his crew. "Get on board. We're leaving."
There was no hesitation in his tone, no room for questions or doubts. The crew exchanged glances, still processing everything that had happened, but they moved as one, following Naruto's order. Ulti and Page One, though still uneasy, began to haul the last of their supplies onto the ship. Yamato, her expression a mix of concern and resolve, nodded at Naruto before she helped Tama up the plank.
Naruto watched as each of them boarded the ship, his gaze lingering on Tama for a moment longer. She looked back at him, her eyes wide with uncertainty, but she didn't say anything more. He gave her a small, reassuring nod, hoping it would be enough for now.
As the last of his crew stepped onto the deck, Naruto followed, his boots thudding heavily against the wooden planks. He could still feel the heat of the fire behind him, but he pushed it from his mind. What was done was done?
Standing at the helm, Naruto looked out over the harbor, the ship beneath him creaking softly as it swayed with the gentle waves. The new brig sloop was still in the final stages of construction nearby, but for now, their current vessel would do.
"We set sail in ten minutes," Naruto announced, his voice carrying across the deck. "Make sure everything's secure."
Curiosity overtook Ulti as she explored every part of the recently gained brig sloop, wandering through its passageways and examining its smallest details. The scent of wood and varnish wafted through the air, a reminder of the recent construction, as she stepped inside. Each room was utilitarian in design, with a simple bed and a small nook for storing belongings. Despite its simplicity, the bedding was surprisingly cozy and offered a welcome respite after a long day of sailing.
She moved on to the kitchen, her favorite place on any ship. A smile crept onto her face as she inspected the layout. It was well-equipped, with a sturdy stove, ample counter space, and plenty of cabinets to store supplies. The pots and pans were new, shining under the soft light that filtered in through the porthole. Ulti could already picture herself whipping up meals for the crew here, turning this simple kitchen into a hub of warmth and camaraderie.
Satisfied, she made her way up to the deck, her boots tapping lightly on the wooden floor. The ship was solid, well-built, and Ulti could tell it withstood the rough conditions they might face on the sea. As she stepped out into the open air to see that night had fallen, she spotted Naruto standing by the ship's railing. His back turned to her.
He was staring intently at the figurehead of the ship, lost in thought. Ulti approached quietly, her eyes following his gaze. The figurehead was striking. An intricately carved rabbit with an eye in the middle of its forehead. The eye was surrounded by concentric circles, and it had nine tomoe giving it a mystical, almost otherworldly appearance. Above the rabbit's head, a single carved leaf rested, carved with flames that seemed almost alive, as if they could burst into a real fire at any moment.
"What's with the rabbit?" Ulti asked, her voice breaking the silence as she stepped up beside Naruto.
Naruto glanced at her, then back at the figurehead. "It's a reminder of my past," he said quietly, his tone thoughtful.
Ulti studied the figurehead for a moment longer, then looked at Naruto. "You picked this design?"
He nodded. "The rabbit symbolizes speed, agility, but as well... something more personal to me... And the leaf with the flames... it's the Will of Fire, a symbol from my old home. A reminder for me what it means..."
She leaned against the railing; the wind ruffling her hair as she looked out over the harbor. "You've put a lot of thought into this," she said, her tone softer now.
Naruto smiled slightly, but his gaze remained fixed on the figurehead. "This ship... it's more than just a means to an end. It's a new beginning for all of us..."
As Ulti and Naruto stood by the railing, appreciating the ship's figurehead, they were joined by Page One, who had been exploring the ship himself. He approached them, his usual serious expression softened by curiosity.
"So, what's the name of this ship?" Page One asked, glancing from Naruto to the figurehead and back again.
Naruto's smile widened, but there was a distant look in his eyes as if he was recalling a memory from long ago. "Well," he began, his voice thoughtful, "if any of you come up with a better name by the time we hit the Grand Line, I'll consider it. But if not... I won't change it."
Page One raised an eyebrow. "And what's the name you have in mind?"
Naruto didn't answer immediately. Instead, he turned his gaze back to the figurehead, the intricate carving of the rabbit with the mystical eye and smouldering leaf holding his thoughts. In his mind, the name echoed softly, "The Moon Rabbit."
Yamato, who had been listening nearby, joined the conversation. Her curiosity piqued. "Come on, Naruto, tell us! What's the name?" she asked, her voice playful yet insistent.
Naruto shook his head, a teasing grin on his face. "Not yet," he replied, refusing to give in. Yamato pouted, crossing her arms and giving him a mock glare.
Tama, who had been quietly observing the exchange, furrowed her brow in concentration. She seemed to be deep in thought, as if trying to guess what the name could be. Naruto noticed her intense focus and chuckled softly.
"You're thinking hard, Tama," Naruto said, his tone gentle. "But don't worry. When the time's right, you'll know the name. Now go to bed's past your bedtime."
As the crew continued to chat and speculate about the ship's name, Naruto noticed that the sun was starting to dip below the horizon, casting long shadows across the deck.
Naruto turned to Tama, who was still deep in thought, trying to figure out the mystery of the ship's name. She looked up at him with wide eyes, clearly determined to solve the puzzle before anyone else.
Naruto crouched down to her level, his expression softening. "Tama," he said gently, "it's getting late. You should head to bed."
Tama pouted slightly, not wanting to give up just yet. "But I'm not tired, Naruto! And besides, I'm not five anymore. I'm fourteen!"
Naruto smiled at her determination. "I know, I know," he said, ruffling her hair affectionately. "You're growing up fast, but even fourteen-year-olds need their rest, especially after a day like today."
Tama huffed, crossing her arms. "But I want to help. I want to be useful, just like the rest of the crew."
Naruto's smile widened as he looked at her, seeing so much of himself in her youthful stubbornness. "And you are useful, Tama. More than you know. But to be at your best, you need to take care of yourself too. You've got a big future ahead of you, and that means getting some sleep when you can."
Tama looked down for a moment, considering his words. Finally, she nodded, though she still seemed reluctant. "Alright, Naruto. But tomorrow, I'm going to figure out the name, I promise!"
Naruto chuckled, standing up. "Deal. But for now, off to bed with you."
Tama gave him one last determined look before turning to head below deck, where her room awaited.
"You guys should go to bed, too." Naruto tells the others, "I am going to drop the ship anchor, and please stash the money and gold somewhere we can easily get it."
After a long day, Naruto finally allowed himself to rest. The events of the day swirled in his mind, but exhaustion eventually took over, and he drifted into a deep sleep. However, the peace of the night was abruptly shattered when the shrill ring of his personal Den-Den Mushi echoed through the captain's room. Groggily, Naruto reached over and grabbed the receiver.
"Naruto here," he mumbled, still half-asleep.
On the other end, there was a sudden burst of voices, all talking over each other in a chaotic jumble. Naruto squinted in confusion, trying to make sense of the babbling. It was Atlas, York, and the rest of the Vegapunk satellites, their frantic voices blending into an incomprehensible mess.
"Whoa, whoa, calm down!" Naruto barked, sitting up in bed and rubbing his eyes. "One at a time, please!"
The voices quieted down slightly, and Edison's voice finally broke through the chaos. "Naruto, did you piss off Akainu?"
Naruto sighed, already feeling the headache forming. "Yeah, you could say that." he replied, knowing full well that his words had likely enraged the Marine Admiral.
Lilith groaned audibly on the other end, and then Shaka's calm voice cut through the tension. "Naruto, we've just received intel that Admiral Akainu has created a special task force for Vice Admirals. They're setting up a blockade at the North Blue entrance to the Grand Line. Their mission is to hunt you down."
Naruto pinched the bridge of his nose in frustration. "Great," he muttered under his breath. "Just what I needed."
Pythagoras chimed in, his tone more analytical. "There's no bounty on your head yet, Naruto. The Marines want to capture you themselves as part of this blockade. It seems Akainu is making this personal."
Naruto's mind raced, considering the implications. No bounty meant no public knowledge, but a concentrated effort by high-ranking Marines was even worse. "And what about Vegapunk? Has he returned from Marijoa yet?"
Atlas's voice came through, a bit more composed now. "No, Vegapunk won't be back for another four days. We're keeping everything secure here, but things are tense."
Naruto let out a long, exasperated breath. The situation was escalating faster than he had expected. He knew Akainu would be a problem, but a full blockade? That was an entirely different level of trouble.
"Alright," Naruto finally said, his voice steadying as he accepted the reality of the situation. "I'll deal with it. Just keep me updated if anything changes..."
There was a chorus of affirmatives from the satellites before the line went dead. Naruto put the receiver down and stared at the ceiling, before heading for the helm.
A while later the first light of dawn broke across the horizon. Naruto stood at the helm of his Brig Sloop, eyes scanning the seas with a focused intensity. The gentle pull of a current shifted the ship slightly off course, and Naruto instinctively rushed to the helm. With a swift, practiced motion, he pulled the wheel, guiding the ship away from the dangerous waters. The vessel responded to his touch, straightening as it glided smoothly across the waves.
But as the sun's rays fully illuminated the horizon, Naruto's eyes narrowed, catching sight of something that made his stomach twist. Not in fear for himself, but in concern for his crew and the ship. Before them, a formidable Marine blockade loomed, comprising three massive battleships and dozens of smaller Marine vessels. The sight was daunting, but Naruto's thoughts were not on the enemies that awaited him. Instead, his mind raced with thoughts of his crew's safety and the ship that carried them.
Naruto's gaze swept over the Marine standard ships, cruiser-like vessels with their three masts, bristling with cannons, and emblazoned with the Marine symbol. He recognized their firepower and the threat they posed, but his worry wasn't about his ability to fight; it was about keeping everyone else safe. His eyes then settled on the Marine battleships, with their towering masts and triple-barrelled guns that could obliterate entire islands. He knew the might of those ships intimately, having commandeered one himself in G-7.
Fifty standard Marine ships and three battleships, all lined up to block their path. Naruto's ship, a lone Brig Sloop, was sturdy and well-built, but it was dwarfed by the enemy fleet. Yet, Naruto didn't feel fear, only the weight of responsibility. He could handle the ships, and he knew in his ability to take on anyone who stood against him. But his crew, his companions, they were what mattered most.
Naruto then called them as he sent shadow clones to rouse them up, "Guys we have a bit of a problem."
Standing on the deck of his Marine battleship, Vice Admiral Draw could hear the sound of the waves crashing against the hull and feel the gentle sway of the ship beneath his feet. His Marine officer's coat billowed in the gentle breeze, while his unyielding gaze remained fixed on the solitary Brig Sloop on the horizon. His mind churned with the intricate details of the mission, each one demanding his full attention.
He reached into his coat and pulled out the sketch he had been given, a detailed drawing of their target. The sketch depicted a man with birthmarks that looked like whiskers on his face, yet there was something about the eyes that unsettled Draw.
Draw exhaled sharply, tucking the sketch back into his coat. He knew what was at stake here, this mission wasn't just about capturing some random criminal it was about maintaining the Marine's reputation, ensuring that no one could slip through their fingers, especially someone as dangerous as the man who had burned down G-7.
But as he stood there, his thoughts drifted to Isuka. The memory of her always crept in during quiet moments like these. She had been like a daughter to him, someone he had cared for deeply. But that bond had been shattered when she discovered the truth about her parents' deaths. The truth that he had been responsible, even if indirectly. The village fire, the collateral damage caused by his flamethrowers... she had never forgiven him.
Vice Admiral Onigumo stood on the bridge of his Marine battleship, his gaze fixed on the distant Brig Sloop. It was a small vessel, unassuming in the vast ocean, yet it was now the focus of an entire Marine blockade. The ship had been reported as suspicious, and while Onigumo had no confirmation of who was aboard, he wasn't taking any chances.
He activated the transponder snail to contact the other Vice Admirals, his voice as cold as steel. "This ship has been flagged, and we will not let it pass. Whatever or whoever is aboard, we will deal with it swiftly. Remember, this operation is a matter of justice. We cannot afford to let any potential threat slip through."
Draw and Bastille acknowledged the order. All three Vice Admirals had their reasons for being here, but for Onigumo, it was always about one thing: Absolute Justice. Even if there was only the faintest chance that the ship harbored criminals, that was enough for him. The Grand Line was treacherous enough without the added chaos of pirates or revolutionaries. If there was any threat, it had to be neutralized, swiftly and without hesitation.
Onigumo's eyes narrowed as he considered the possibility of who might be on that ship. There had been whispers of a rogue element moving through the seas, someone dangerous enough to warrant Akainu's personal interest. The Marine fleet's presence here was no coincidence. Orders had come down from the highest levels, and while details were scarce, Onigumo knew enough to suspect that whoever or whatever was aboard that ship, it wasn't ordinary.
"All ships, ready your cannons," Onigumo ordered, his tone leaving no room for doubt. "Prepare to engage. We cannot allow any vessel to breach this blockade."
The tension among the fleet was palpable as the Marine ships moved into formation, their cannons aimed at the lone Brig Sloop. To Onigumo, this was another step in the eternal struggle between order and chaos, good and evil. He didn't need to know the names or faces of the people on that ship. All he needed to know was that they were a potential threat to the world's peace, and that was enough to warrant their destruction.
As the morning sun began to rise, casting a golden light across the sea, Onigumo felt a familiar sense of righteousness settle over him. The Marines were the last line of defense in a world constantly teetering on the edge of lawlessness. And he, as an executor of Absolute Justice, would ensure that the scales were tipped in favor of order, no matter the cost.
"Let's see who's brave enough to challenge the might of the Marines," Onigumo muttered to himself as he prepared to give the order to fire.
Onigumo raised his hand, signalling the fleet to open fire. The morning air was filled with the deafening roar of cannons as they unleashed their fury upon the lone Brig Sloop. It was a calculated warning shot, meant to send a clear message to whoever was aboard that their path was blocked and there would be no escape.
As the cannonballs hurtled through the sky, a streak of silver flashed across the battlefield. Before anyone could register what had happened, the cannonballs were sliced clean in half mid-air. The split projectiles fell harmlessly into the sea, sending up harmless splashes of water. The Marines on deck stared in disbelief, their eyes widening as they searched for an explanation.
Then they saw it.
Embedded in the side of one of the Marine battleships, quivering slightly from the impact, was a kunai. The sleek, deadly blade had sliced through the cannonballs with effortless precision before lodging itself deep into the hull of the ship.
Onigumo's eyes narrowed as he recognized the weapon. His mind raced, connecting the dots. A kunai, especially one used with such deadly accuracy, was no ordinary weapon. This wasn't just any pirate crew they were dealing with.
"Impossible..." Onigumo muttered under his breath, though his voice betrayed no fear, only a cold realization. "This isn't some ordinary merchant or civilian crew."
The other Vice Admirals quickly ordered their men to stand down, momentarily halting any further attacks as they tried to comprehend what had just happened. The sea was eerily silent for a few seconds, as if holding its breath, waiting for the next move.
Onigumo stepped forward, glaring at the kunai embedded in the ship's side. Whoever had thrown it was a force to be reckoned with, someone who could intercept and neutralize a barrage of cannon fire with a single flick of the wrist. He clenched his fists, recognizing that they were facing an opponent far more dangerous than they had anticipated.
But if anything, the challenge only fuelled his resolve. Absolute Justice demanded that he confront this threat head-on, no matter the risk.
"Prepare for combat!" Onigumo barked, his voice cutting through the stunned silence. "Whoever you are, you won't get away. We'll find you, and we'll bring you down!"
Onigumo's sharp eyes caught movement on the horizon, something that made his breath hitch for the first time in years. There, standing on the very surface of the ocean, was a blonde man, his cloak billowing in the wind. The impossible scene was made even more terrifying by the calm gaze the man directed at the Marine fleet. The waves seemed to bow to his presence, parting as he moved, slicing the sea itself in two and revealing the seabed beneath.
In an instant, the man launched forward, tearing through the water with such force that the ocean split apart in his wake. Onigumo's eyes widened as he realized the sheer power of this individual. And then, as if the situation couldn't get any worse, four more figures followed closely behind him, each one slower than their forerunner.
Within a second, the blonde man had made contact with the blockade thirty seconds later the rest came, each landing on a different ship with devastating impact. The calm before the storm erupted into chaos as the Marines scrambled to respond, their once-organized formation descending into frantic disorder.
Onigumo's shock turned into focused anger as he watched the blonde man land gracefully on the deck of his own battleship. The man matched the description and sketch they had been given. There was no doubt. This was the one they were after.
The blonde man looked at Onigumo with a calm but piercing gaze, his presence exuding a quiet yet overwhelming power. "Don't bother firing on my ship," the man said with a calmness that belied the surrounding chaos. "There are shadow clones protecting it."
Onigumo frowned, trying to make sense of the statement. "Shadow clones?" he repeated, confusion momentarily clouding his usually sharp mind. He had heard of various Devil Fruit powers, but this was something different, something... out of place.
The man didn't seem inclined to explain. Instead, he simply smiled, but there was no warmth in it, only the confidence of someone who knew he had already won.
"Yes," the man continued, his tone casual, almost mocking. "You should be more worried about what's happening right now. Your men might not survive this encounter if they keep focusing on the wrong thing."
Onigumo's' grip tightened on his sword as he realized the gravity of the situation. This was no ordinary opponent. This man and his companions were unlike anything he had faced before. The battle had already begun, and it was clear that the Marines were at a severe disadvantage.
Onigumo felt a surge of anger, but he quickly forced himself to remain calm. This was no time to lose control. He was a Vice Admiral, a seasoned warrior of the sea, and he had faced countless threats in his pursuit of Absolute Justice. With a deep breath, he activated his Devil Fruit powers. His long, brown hair twisted and morphed, sprouting into three pairs of black, spider-like arms, each one strong and deadly. A spider-like abdomen formed at the base of his spine, adding to his already imposing figure.
The familiar weight of his eight sabers brought him a sense of focus. Each blade was clad in Armament Haki, a black sheen covering them as he prepared for the battle to come. The surrounding chaos, the Marines shouting, the sound of gunfire, and the distant clashing of steel faded into the background as he centered himself.
Onigumo's eyes narrowed as he activated his Observation Haki, homing in on the blonde man who had landed on his deck. Through his Haki, he could sense the man's intent, trying to predict his movements and understand the threat he posed. But what he felt was... strange. There was a calmness in his opponent, a quiet determination that was almost unsettling. There was no fear, no hesitation, just a steady, overwhelming confidence that radiated from him.
The man stood there, relaxed, but Onigumo knew better than to be deceived by appearances. He could sense the Haki within that man, but it was dwarfed by another form of energy that was beyond description for him to say. His Observation Haki tried to pierce through the man's defenses, to read his next move, but it was like trying to look through cracked mirrors.
Despite the unease creeping into his mind, Onigumo steeled himself. He had faced impossible odds before, and he would not back down now. His sabers gleamed as he readied himself for the fight, each of his spider-like arms poised to strike.
"I don't care who you are," Onigumo said, his voice a low growl, "but this ends here. Justice will be served."
The blonde man tilted his head slightly as if considering the words before giving a small almost amused smile. He didn't reply but the silence spoke volumes.
Onigumo tightened his grip on his sabers, his eyes locked on his opponent.
Naruto stood at the center of the chaos, his eyes locked onto Onigumo's. The battlefield around them was a whirlwind of clashing steel, explosive bursts of energy, and the cries of battle. Marines scrambled to regain their footing as shockwaves from the ongoing fight reverberated across the deck of the Vice Admiral's battleship. The once pristine ship now bore the scars of their confrontation, with shattered planks, smoldering debris, and deep gouges marking where blades had clashed.
Onigumo, now fully transformed, loomed menacingly. His three pairs of spider-like arms, each wielding a saber clad in Armament Haki, created a fearsome sight for most but Naruto. The Vice Admiral's eyes, half-lidded and cold, scanned Naruto with a mixture of disdain and caution.
Across from him, Onigumo's eight arms each held a saber, their edges gleaming with Armament Haki. The vice admiral's eyes were narrowed, his face set in a grim expression. He knew he was up against a force unlike any other, yet he couldn't afford to show weakness.
Naruto could feel the tension in the air, the anticipation of the coming clash. Despite the danger, he remained calm, his mind clear. He had faced countless enemies before, but this was different. Here, on these marine battleships, he had to be careful. He couldn't afford to let loose the full extent of his power, there were too many lives at stake, too much potential for destruction.
Onigumo lunged first, his sabers cutting through the air with lethal precision. Naruto responded instantly, meeting the attack with his own Uzu Uchiwa. The moment their weapons made contact, the chakra flowing through Naruto's Uzu-Uchiwa collided with the Haki coating Onigumo's sabers. The result was an explosion of energy, a shockwave that rippled outwards, sending Naruto skidding back across the deck and Onigumo reeling from the impact.
As the shockwave tore through the wood, splinters flew and the deck beneath their feet cracked from the force. Naruto steadied himself, his eyes locked on Onigumo, who had already recovered and was charging again. There was no time for hesitation. Naruto moved, his body a blur as he met Onigumo's assault head-on.
Each clash of their weapons was a detonation of power. The chakra in Naruto's blade surged against Onigumo's Haki, creating a violent mix of energy that erupted with every strike. The vice admiral's face twisted in concentration, his muscles straining as he tried to match Naruto's speed and strength. But it was clear, Naruto was holding back. He wasn't fighting with the full force that had crushed so many of his opponents in the past. He couldn't risk it, not here. The only jutsu he was using now were Shadow Clones.
Despite his restraint, Naruto moved with an ease that belied the intensity of the battle. He parried Onigumo's strikes effortlessly, his blade a blur of motion as it danced around the vice admiral's sabers. Each deflection sent another shockwave through the ship, the energy tearing at the wood and metal around them. Naruto could feel the vibrations in his bones, but he remained focused, his mind in tune with every movement.
Onigumo was relentless, his sabers flashing in a deadly pattern as he sought an opening in Naruto's defense. But every time he thought he had one, Naruto was already there, the blade of Uzu-Uchiwa intercepting the strike with a precision that bordered on the supernatural. The vice admiral's frustration was palpable, his breath coming in harsh gasps as he pushed himself harder, faster.
Naruto, on the other hand, was in control. He could sense Onigumo's growing desperation, the way the vice admiral was beginning to push his own limits. It was a dangerous game, one that Naruto had played before. But this time, the stakes were different. He couldn't allow himself to slip, couldn't afford to unleash the full force of his power.
As they clashed again, Naruto's thoughts briefly flickered to the other battles raging across the marine blockade. He could sense his shadow clones, scattered across the ships, each one looking out for his crewmates. But he pushed the thoughts aside for now, even if could afford distractions.
Onigumo's sabers came down in a vicious arc, aimed directly at Naruto's head. Naruto moved faster than the eye could follow, his blade meeting the attack with a burst of chakra-infused energy. The resulting explosion sent both of them flying back, the force of the impact causing the deck to shudder beneath them.
Naruto landed in a crouch, his gaze still fixed on Onigumo. The vice admiral was breathing heavily now, sweat dripping down his face. Naruto could see the strain in his eyes, the realization that no matter how hard he fought, he couldn't break through. But Onigumo wasn't the type to give up easily. He straightened, his grip tightening on his sabers as he prepared for another attack.
Naruto stood tall, his blade at the ready. He could feel the power thrumming through him, the chakra that pulsed through his chakra network, begging to be unleashed. But he kept it in check, focusing instead on the task at hand.
Onigumo charged again, his sabers a whirlwind of steel and Armament Haki. Naruto met him head-on, their blades colliding with a deafening roar. The ship trembled under the force of their blows, the air around them crackling with energy. Onigumo's strikes were wild, desperate, but Naruto remained calm, deflecting each one with the precision of a master swordsman.
As they fought, Naruto's mind was a constant flow of information, his senses heightened by the chakra flowing through him. He could feel every movement Onigumo made, every shift in his stance, every flicker of emotion that crossed his face. It was like reading an open book, one that Naruto had read a thousand times before.
And then, in the midst of the chaos, Naruto felt it. The familiar sensation of his shadow clones dispelling, their memories flooding into his mind. In an instant, he knew everything that was happening across the battlefield. Yamato was engaged in a fierce battle with Vice Admiral Bastille, their weapons clashing with such force that the ship beneath them was beginning to crack. But Yamato was holding her own, her strength and skill matching Bastille's every move.
On another ship, Page One and Ulti were fighting off the marine captains and commodores, preventing them from reaching Tama. The young girl was fighting bravely, wielding the Sakura Ringu with a skill that belied her age. Naruto felt a surge of pride. Tama had grown so much, and she was holding her own against enemies far older than her.
But there was no time to dwell on these thoughts. Naruto pushed the memories aside, refocusing on the battle at hand. Onigumo was still pressing the attack, but Naruto could see the cracks beginning to form in his defense. The vice admiral was tiring, his movements becoming slower, less precise.
Naruto knew it was time to end this. He couldn't afford to let the battle drag on any longer. With a burst of speed, he closed the distance between them, his blade flashing as he struck at Onigumo with a force that sent shockwaves rippling through the air.
Onigumo barely had time to react. He brought up his sabers in a desperate attempt to block, but it was too late. Naruto's blade crashed into his defenses, the chakra-infused steel cutting through the Haki-coated sabers and shattering it with ease. The explosion of energy that followed was immense, a detonation that sent Onigumo flying across the deck.
Naruto didn't give him a chance to recover. He was on the vice admiral in an instant, his blade poised for the final strike. But as he brought it down, he hesitated. Onigumo was beaten, his sabers shattered, his body bruised and bloodied. There was no need to finish him off, not when Naruto had already won.
With a sigh, Naruto lowered Uzu-Uchiwa, the glow of the chakra fading from its edge. Onigumo looked up at him, confusion and anger warring in his eyes. But Naruto didn't say a word. He simply turned away, his mind already shifting to the next challenge.
Naruto stepped away from Onigumo, his sharp senses already picking up the changes in the atmosphere. The sounds of battle echoed across the blockade, the clang of steel, the crackle of Haki, and the distant booms of cannon fire all melding into a chaotic symphony of war. He could feel the vibrations under his feet as the marine battleships trembled from the force of ongoing clashes.
His breath came easy, his heart steady despite the ferocity of the fight. Naruto had faced countless battles. The chakra flowing through him was a vast ocean, deep and endless, but here, in the middle of a marine blockade, it was a force he had to wield with the utmost precision.
Naruto's thoughts briefly lingered on Onigumo, who lay groaning on the deck, clutching the remnants of his shattered sabers. The vice admiral had been formidable, but Naruto had felt the gaps in his technique, the desperation in his strikes. It was clear that Onigumo had given everything, but it hadn't been enough. Not against Naruto.
Naruto's gaze swept across the ship, his senses reaching out to grasp the layout of the battlefield. He could feel the presence of two other powerful figures nearby, their Haki flaring like beacons in the chaos. Vice Admiral Draw was one of them. His distinct aura, sharp and aggressive, was moving rapidly toward Naruto's position. The vice admiral had set his own ship ablaze with his flamethrowers underneath his cloak, the fire now raging across its decks as he abandoned the fight with Yamato to join Onigumo.
Naruto turned to face the incoming threat. He could already see the billowing smoke in the distance, the dark plumes rising against the clear sky as the flames licked at the sails.
The ship under Naruto's feet rocked as Draw landed with a thunderous impact, the wood splintering under the force. The vice admiral was a towering figure, his presence intimidating as he stood amidst the debris. His eyes, cold and calculating, locked onto Naruto with a predator's focus. Without a word, Draw unsheathed his weapon, a massive cutlass, its edge glinting dangerously in the light.
"Onigumo," Draw growled, his voice low and menacing as he glanced at his fallen comrade. The vice admiral's eyes hardened when he saw the state Onigumo was in. "Stand back. I'll handle this."
Onigumo, bloodied and bruised, managed a nod before dragging himself away, his pride wounded far more than his body. Draw's attention returned to Naruto, his stance shifting into an aggressive posture, ready to strike at a moment's notice.
Naruto tightened his grip on Nidai Kitetsu, his chakra pulsing subtly through the cursed steel. He could see the determination in Draw's eyes, the vice admiral's intent clear. Draw wasn't here to test Naruto; he was here to crush him, to put an end to this battle decisively. But Naruto had no intention of letting that happen.
The moment of stillness between them was shattered as Draw launched forward, his Haki imbued fist punching through the air with incredible speed. Naruto moved to meet him, his Nidai Kitetsu flashing in a precise counter. The impact of blade and fist sent a shockwave that rattled the entire ship, the energy exploding outward in a blinding burst of light.
Draw's strength was immense, the force behind his strikes enough to shatter steel and bone alike. But Naruto was faster, his movements fluid and controlled, each parry and counterstrike executed with effortless grace. He could feel the raw power in Draw's blows, the Haki that coated the fists clashing against his chakra-infused blade, creating violent bursts of energy with every impact.
Despite the intensity of the battle, Naruto remained composed. He was still holding back, careful not to unleash the full extent of his power. The vice admirals were strong compared to most here, but they weren't a threat to Naruto.
Draw's fist came crashing down, aiming to punch a hole in Naruto gut. Naruto sidestepped the attack with a swift motion, bringing his blade up in a sharp arc that forced Draw to retreat a step. The vice admiral snarled, his frustration mounting as Naruto evaded each of his attempts to land a decisive blow.
Naruto's eyes narrowed as he felt a chunk of his chakra return with a memory from one of his shadow clones. It was like a rush of information, the clone's experiences pouring into his mind all at once. He saw Yamato, her kanabo, clashing with Vice Admiral Bastille's massive zanbato, the force of their battle tearing apart the ship they fought on. Yamato was holding her ground, her strength and Armament Haki pushing Bastille back, but the fight was fierce, the ship barely holding together under the strain.
Another memory flooded in, this one from a clone stationed near Page One and Ulti. They were battling fiercely against the marine captains and commodores, keeping them from reaching Tama. The young girl was fighting valiantly, wielding the Sakura Ringu with a skill that impressed even Naruto. She was holding her own, her determination and training shining through despite the odds.
But there was no time to dwell on it. He refocused on the battle at hand, his attention snapping back to Draw as the vice admiral launched another barrage of attacks.
Draw was relentless, his fists a blur as he pressed the offensive. Each swing was backed by raw power, the Haki enveloping his punches crackling with energy. But Naruto was unfazed. He met each strike with a calm precision, his movements almost effortless as he deflected Draw's attacks.
The battle raged on, the ship groaning under the strain of their clash. The deck splintered and cracked with each explosion of energy, the wood barely holding together. Naruto could feel the ship listing slightly, the damage from the ongoing battles across the blockade taking its toll.
And then, as if in response to Naruto's thoughts, another surge of memories hit him, his clone's experience of the battles spread out across the marine fleet. The scene shifted, and Naruto found himself momentarily distracted by the sight of Yamato. She was locked in a fierce struggle with Bastille, their weapons creating shockwaves that rocked the ship beneath them. Yamato's kanabo clashed against Bastille's Same-kiri Bocho, the immense zanbato cutting through the air with terrifying speed. The ship around them was barely holding up, the wooden planks cracking and splintering under the force of their battle.
Naruto's attention snapped back to the present as Draw seized the opportunity, his cutlass slashing toward Naruto's midsection. Naruto moved instinctively, his blade meeting the cutlass with a resounding crash, the energy of their clash sending both of them skidding back across the deck.
Draw was panting now, his chest heaving with each breath. Naruto could see the strain in his eyes, the vice admiral's stamina beginning to wane. But despite the toll the battle was taking, Draw's determination hadn't faltered. He was a man driven by duty, by the need to protect the marine blockade at all costs.
Naruto, on the other hand, was barely winded. He had been careful, methodical in his approach, holding back just enough to keep the fight under control. But he knew that time was running out. The longer this battle dragged on, the more damage would be done to the ships around them.
Draw let out a roar, charging forward with renewed vigor. His body came down in a powerful body blow, aimed at Naruto's shoulder. Naruto sidestepped, his blade flashing as he slashed Draw across the back and the force of his blade sent Draw crashing to the other side of the battleship.
But this time, Naruto didn't let Draw recover. He moved with blinding speed, closing the distance between them in an instant. His blade struck out a quick and precise blow aimed at Draw's flamethrower weapon underneath his arm cloak cutting the fuel tube. The impact sent a jolt of energy through the air, and before Draw could react, Naruto followed up with a second strike, disarming the vice admiral with a swift motion.
Draw staggered back, his weapon fuel gushed to the deck. For a moment, there was silence, the only sound was the distant roar of the ocean and the crackling of flames in the distance. Naruto stood still, his blade at the ready, but he didn't press the attack. He could see the defeat in Draw's eyes, the realization that he had been outmatched.
But even in defeat, Draw remained defiant. He clenched his fists, his Haki flaring around him as he prepared for one final, desperate attack. Naruto watched him calmly, his expression unreadable. He could end this now, with a single strike. But there was no need for more bloodshed.
Naruto sheathed Nidai Kitetsu, the glow of chakra fading from its edge. "It's over," he said, his voice steady and calm.
Draw hesitated, the fire in his eyes flickering as he took in Naruto's words. He glanced at Onigumo, who was still slumped against the mast, barely conscious. The vice admiral's shoulders sagged, the last of his strength draining away as he realized the truth Naruto had been holding back the entire time.
The realization hit Draw hard, as he realized that Naruto basically held them in the palm of his hand the entire battle.
Naruto then summoned a shadow clone and it splayed it left left palm open and a swirling vortex of chakra collected into a blue swirling sphere that kept growing larger and larger making all the other fights pause in horror and shock as they saw a Rasengan; the largest Rasengan Naruto had ever created. By not compressing it power fully it made it easier to create a Rasengan that reached larger sizes but to compensate it held much less power.
But Naruto just wanted the size, a Rasengan the size of half of the blockade to make all those Marine realize he had the power to annihilate them off the face of the ocean from the start of the battle.
"You let us enter the Grand Line and I will let you go." Naruto told Draw as the shadow clone pretended to strain from carrying such a dense chakra sphere, "You will return battered and beaten but spared by me, Uzumaki Naruto."
Both Vice Admiral gritted their teeth with frustration and Onigumo hissed out, "Even if we let you go, this isn't over."
Naruto nodded with amusement, "I expect nothing less from the Marines."
Yamato stared at the barely functioning blockade with shock as she winced as Ulti cleaned her shoulder wound. The Vice Admiral she fought was strong but not strong as Ace, she had gotten sloppy without the harsh training from her dad. She should have beaten the vice admiral with ease.
"Yamato." Naruto's soft voice says as he steered the ship helm into a current, "What did Oden say about Reverse Mountain? I know a bit from the marine information that was lying around in the battleship that I stole..."
She couldn't help but think back to her training with her father, Kaido. Those brutal sessions in which he would mercilessly throw her around like a ragdoll, only to drunkenly disregard her attacks until she actually managed to hurt him. And then, when she did, his retaliation was swift and merciless. There had been times when she thought he might actually accidently kill her, but in the end, it had made her stronger. It had turned her into the warrior she was today.
"Yamato," Naruto's voice broke through her thoughts, soft yet steady. He was at the helm, steering the ship with practiced ease as they approached their next challenge. "What did Oden say about Reverse Mountain? I found some marine intel on the battleship, but it's pretty vague."
Yamato shook herself out of her reverie, focusing on the present. She moved to stand beside Naruto, gazing ahead at the looming silhouette of Reverse Mountain in the distance. Memories of Oden's tales flooded her mind, stories of the treacherous path that led from the Blues into the Grand Line.
"Reverse Mountain," she began, her voice thoughtful as she recalled Oden's log book. "It's a unique place, the most dangerous part of entering the Grand Line. The mountain itself is a 'Winter Island,' it's much colder than the surrounding seas in the Blues, but not in the Grand Line."
Naruto listened intently, his eyes never leaving the horizon. Yamato continued, "The mountain has five rivers. Four of them come from each of the world's four Blue Seas—North, South, East, and West. They flow up the mountain, which is crazy when you think about it. At the top, they meet, and then the fifth river flows down into the Grand Line."
Naruto listened intently, his eyes never leaving the horizon. Yamato continued, "The mountain has five rivers. Four of them ascend from each of the world's four Blue Seas—North, South, East, and West. They flow up the mountain, which is crazy when you think about it. At the top, they meet, and then the fifth river flows down into the Grand Line."
She pointed toward the mountain, where Naruto could now see the faint outlines of the rivers winding their way up its steep slopes. "We're entering from the North Blue river," Yamato explained. "It'll be a rough ride. The currents are strong, and the river is narrow, surrounded by rocky cliffs on both sides."
Naruto frowned slightly, taking in the information. "And what about those structures at the entrance?" he asked. "I read something about square arcs decorated with tribal patterns."
Yamato nodded. "There are ten of them, forming an archway over the river's entrance. They're old, really old, and no one knows who built them or why. Some say they're a warning, others believe they're meant to guide ships safely up the mountain. Oden thought they were a sign that you're about to enter a place unlike any other."
Naruto let out a low whistle, his grip on the helm tightening as they drew closer to the mountain.
As the ship surged forward, caught in the powerful current of the Reverse Mountain current, Yamato gripped the railing tightly, her knuckles white as they were pulled up the steep slope of Reverse Mountain. The roaring of the water filled her ears, the force of the current making the ship shudder as it climbed higher and higher. The sensation was both exhilarating and terrifying, the sheer power of the natural forces at play almost overwhelming.
Naruto held the helm steady, his eyes narrowed in concentration as he navigated the narrow, twisting path. Despite the intensity of the situation, there was a spark of curiosity in his eyes, a need to understand how this strange phenomenon was even possible.
As the ship surged forward, propelled by the powerful currents of the North Blue river of Reverse Mountain, Page One moved to the deck, his sharp eyes scanning the rapidly changing landscape around them. The young pirate was usually reserved, but there was something about the sheer force of nature at work here that drew him out of his shell.
Ulti, who had been tending to her wounds, looked up as her brother approached. She noticed the intense focus on his face, a look she rarely saw. Tama, standing nearby, clutched the railing, her eyes wide with a mix of excitement and awe as the ship ascended the mountain.
"What's happening, Pay-Pay?" Ulti called out, her tone both curious and challenging. "How are we moving up the mountain like this? It's crazy!"
Page One turned to her, his expression softening slightly. He wasn't one to indulge in explanations often, but he could see the genuine curiosity in his sister's eyes and the eager anticipation in Tama's.
"It's the currents," Page One began, his voice calm, even as the ship rocked beneath them. "Reverse Mountain is unique because the water from the four Blues flows up it instead of down. The currents are extremely strong, and they're what's pulling the ship upward."
Tama's eyes widened even more than before as she leaned closer to listen. "But how can water flow up a mountain?" she asked, her voice filled with wonder.
Page One nodded, understanding her confusion. "It's because Reverse Mountain is much colder than the seas in the Blues, but not as cold as the Grand Line. The difference in temperature creates a kind of vacuum, and the water from the Blues is drawn upward by that force. Once the rivers reach the top, they meet and flow down into the Grand Line."
Ulti crossed her arms, her brow furrowing as she tried to wrap her head around the concept. "So the mountain kind of sucks the water up because it's colder, and that's why we're moving up using no sails?"
Page One nodded again. "Exactly. The currents are so strong that they're doing all the work for us. All we have to do is steer and make sure we don't get smashed against the rocks."
Tama's eyes sparkled with excitement. "That's amazing! It's like the mountain itself is helping us get to the Grand Line!"
Ulti snorted, a grin spreading across her face. "More like it's testing us. If we're not careful, it'll throw us off like some unwanted cargo."
Page One couldn't help but chuckle at that. "True. But if we navigate it right, the mountain will guide us safely to the other side. The currents are powerful, but they're predictable if you know what to look for."
Tama tilted her head, curiosity still burning in her gaze. "But what happens at the top? If all the rivers meet, won't they crash into each other?"
Page One shook his head. "At the top, the rivers merge smoothly and the water they spray turn to ice. It's where the last and fifth river is formed, the one that flows down into the Grand Line. It's like a natural funnel, guiding the water—and us—into the next part of our journey."
Ulti gave a low whistle, impressed despite herself. "So it's not just about getting up the mountain, but making sure we don't mess up at the top. One wrong move, and we're in trouble."
Page One nodded, his gaze drifting back to the horizon where the peak of Reverse Mountain loomed closer with each passing moment. "Exactly. We have to be ready for anything. This mountain... it's the gateway to the Grand Line. If we make it through, we're in for a whole new world of challenges."
Tama gripped the railing tighter, her excitement tempered by a new sense of seriousness. "We'll make it through. We have to."
Ulti reached out and ruffled Tama's hair. Her usual teasing tone softened. "Of course we will, squirt. We've got our Captain with us now, and we've faced worse odds before. This mountain is not Kaido."
Page One remained silent, but there was a quiet confidence in his stance. The mountain was formidable, but he knew they could conquer it. They had come too far to be turned back now.
Naruto, Yamato, and Page One stood together at the helm, their eyes locked on the path ahead. They could feel the ship straining against the current, the wood creaking as it was pulled higher and higher. The anticipation was almost unbearable, the knowledge that they were about to cross the threshold into the Grand Line filling them with a mix of fear and excitement.
And then, with a final surge, the ship crested the peak of Reverse Mountain.
For a brief moment, they were suspended at the top, touching the heaves and the four rivers from the Blues converging beneath them, swirling together a mixture of ice and water before plunging down into the Grand Line.
Naruto let out a breath he hadn't realized he was holding, his heart pounding with the thrill of the ascent. "We did it," he murmured, a grin spreading across his face. "We actually made it."
Yamato and Page One shared a look, their expressions a mix of relief and triumph. Tama was silent as she stared at her surroundings in awe and shock.
"Hold on tight," Naruto called out, his voice filled with anticipation. "This ride isn't over yet!"
As they started to fall, Naruto looked over his shoulder and stared into the clouds that barely hid the Red Line continent and its mountainside. For a brief moment, the sight made him think he was back in his world, away from the endless ocean in this world.
"I CAN SEE IT!" Yamato whooped with joy. "THE GRAND LINE!"
Just as the brig sloop made contact with the downward-flowing channel, Naruto's attention was immediately captured by the scene before them. Despite being obscured by clouds, there was no denying the presence of a vast field of blue that merged with the horizon, tumultuous and thunderous in its greeting.
Naruto let out a laugh of delight as they landed into the river that led to them to the Grand Line section called Paradise. Naruto let the helm go and felt the wind and seawater all around him with a thought, "So this is what Ace was talking about... Not bad."
A/N: So here is CH 23, It nearly 18K words long. Finally Naruto has entered the Grand Line: Paradise. I changed somethings in my planning and acclerated the story, as I felt the pacing got boring in the previous chapter. Hidan, Jashin, Naruto, and a certain One Piece character Era is about to start. is How was the chapter? I really appreciate it if there is engagement in this chapter. Next chapter the first Luffy bounty drops with Naruto bounty, and Luffy will be introduced. He is still in East Blue as of now. Please leave reviews or contact me with PM.
Now on to reviews.
Samuel Santillan (Chapter 22): Yes Naruto has the voice of all things, it will be explained in the future why he has Haki and those abilities. Naruto doesn't have Enma with him it back in Wano. About Akainu this is just setting up for future arcs and chapters.
thor94 (Chapter 22): Black Zetsu knows Naruto whereabouts but his is not pinpointing his location or having there faceoff until much later.
Blackhearth75 (Chapter 20): I am doing whatever I want with this story.
