Dawn rose on the Going Merry as Axol and Sonson weighed anchor while Ben and Penny set the main sail. Sanji and Noire headed into the galley to start breakfast as Draco brought up the ingredients.

"Things are really starting to come together for this crew," Zoro noted.

"Yeah, I was aiming for ten crew members but we've got over seventeen!" Luffy said. "And we're probably going to get more while in the Grand Line!"

"Well, of course! We're picking people who share our visions from just about every place we visit, savvy?" Ben smirked.

"Nojiko said she met that merchant guy we've run into before," Sonson noted. "I wonder how he gets around."

"I don't know about you, but I don't think it's from a Devil Fruit," Usopp said. "That guy is something different from normal, I can tell."

Penny nodded. "He did have this otherworldly air around him."

"And he always seems to have a Devil Fruit or two on hand," Gin added. "Still don't know what mine does since I haven't had the opportunity to find out."

"Breakfast is ready!" Sanji called out. "Get it while it's hot!"

-OP-

Soon, the Straw Hats had arrived at Loguetown, marveling at what they saw.

"Here it is, guys! The birthplace of Gold Roger, and the place where he was executed!" Luffy beamed excitedly. "People call it the Town of the Beginning and the End."

"In the days afterward, this place was full of pirates heading for the Grand Line," Nami noted. "It's a one-stop shop for everything we'll need for our own journey."

"Okay, I'll take Usopp, Axol, and Ruby to get some supplies. There's a few things we'll need that are of vital importance." Draco said.

"I'll need to stock up on plenty of ink for Inkweaver!" Axol said as he brandished his giant pen like a mighty staff.

"I'll go with Sanji and Noire to stock up on food supplies," Sonson said. "Zoro, Kuina, you guys go and try to find a place to replace the swords that got broken."

"I'll stay here and guard the ship," Gin said. "Someone of my reputation might be spotted too easily."

"We still have plenty of cash from our adventures so far. So getting everything we need shouldn't be an issue." Nami noted.

"Luffy, what are you gonna do?" Draco asked.

"I'm gonna go check out the execution platform!"

The straw-hatted girl bolted off as Ben gave off a chuckle.

"She always gets excited thinking about the story of Gol D. Roger. After all, she aims to be the new King of the Pirates someday."

"Can't say I blame him. This was Roger's birthplace after all." Gin said. "He's likely walked these streets dozens of times."

-OP-

Zoro sighed as Nami started at a clothing store. Nojiko and Kuina also couldn't help but share in his exasperation.

"100 million Berris in our account and she wastes most of it on fashion."

Fortunately, Nami was more thrifty than to waste money on designer fashions and instead picked up clothes from a more mainstream store.

"I think getting a girlfriend in Luffy helped ground you a little, Sis," Nojiko said with a chuckle.

"Still can't believe she was able to hide her gender so expertly..." Kuina noted.

-OP-

Sanji was looking around town, admiring the young women he passed by. Noire groaned as she harshly pulled him by the ear to keep him focused on the task at hand.

"Honestly, I can't believe you! What does every pretty woman you come across have that I don't?"

Sanji smirked. "Well, you have a boyish charm to you and you're not exactly the type to wear traditionally feminine clothes."

"I'm as much a girl as any other!" Noire snapped as she kicked Sanji upside the head. "Why I put up with you sure beats me!"

Suddenly, Sanji noticed a young woman who caught his interest; she had brown hair in a ponytail and blue eyes and was wearing a white tank shirt, a black vest, denim shorts, and black and pink ankle boots.

However, the most unique thing about her was how fat she was. Her belly was enormous and round. Her enviably massive breasts were undeniably the biggest anyone had ever seen. Her arms and thighs had a layer of fat around them but were also firm enough to suggest some muscles underneath. Her butt was also huge, to the point it could be used like a pillow. Her face and cheeks were round and chubby, which helped her look cute and soft.

"Well, that's a special dish right there." Sanji chuckled as Noire scoffed and rolled her eyes.

"At least you don't just have your eyes on the traditional supermodels..."

Meanwhile, the girl was snacking on some taiyaki before turning to what appeared to be a Transponder Snail that was riding on her shoulder.

"You sure those pirates that have been making waves are here?"

"Absolutely!" The Transponder Snail said in a shrill, grating, yet oddly charmingly goofy voice. "They're definitely in this area or you can dump me in a vat of salt and cook me up!"

"I doubt you'd taste good anyway, Gottfried."

"Oh, come on! I'm a world-class dish!"

"That salesman at the bazaar said otherwise."

-OP-

Meanwhile, Draco led Axol and Ruby to an equipment store and went up to the main counter.

"I'll need ten packs of ink cartridges please!" Axol said. "Don't worry, we have money to spend!"

"Anything else while you're here?" The clerk asked.

Draco nodded. "Yes, we'll need a standard Log Pose set."

"Yes, sir. That's one standard Log Pose and one Eternal Pose for every major port in Paradise." The clerk said. "I suppose that means your crew is preparing to enter the Grand Line?"

"Well, our crew has four captains and I'm one of the four," Draco smirked. "So that means quadruple the dreams."

"Well, then I recommend you peruse our selection of ammunition while you're here," the clerk suggested. "Plenty of dangerous types in the Grand Line, not to mention lots of Sea Kings."

"Not a bad idea. Me and Ruby here are Grand Line natives, but not even we know everything about it." Draco said. "Usopp, you go and check out the ammo selection. I'll check out the sea charts and compare them to the one we have to see what islands we might be making landfall on."

"I've already got what I need!" Axol grinned as he carried all the ink cartridges he bought. "I'll see you all back on the Merry!"

-OP-

Elsewhere, a Marine had just entered the office of the local captain stationed in Loguetown.

"Captain Smoker, a message from headquarters!"

The room was filled with smoke, but the silhouette of a large man chomping on two cigars could be seen.

"Go ahead, Lieutenant."

"We've received word that four wanted individuals, Monkey D. Luffy, Lor D. Draco, Monkey D. Sonson, and Sparrow D. Benjamin, have just arrived in Loguetown with their pirate crew. All of them have bounties that exceed Saw Tooth Arlong!"

The man chuckled. "Talk about impressive. Especially since they're so young. Do we have a list of their crimes?"

"No actual crimes committed, but they've been deemed dangerous by virtue of having beaten the top three pirates in the East Blue."

"If they're pirates with no crimes, then there's no rush. We can take our time and observe them." The man, 'White Chase' Smoker, said. "See if they need to be dealt with before they become a threat."

He opened the window and let the smoke ventilate out of the room. He took a puff of the two cigars in his mouth before moving out and putting on his jacket, which had numerous cigars strapped to it.

"So far no pirate that has set foot in Loguetown has ever escaped after I took charge here. And all of them so far have been actual criminals. But I've got a feeling these so-called 'Four Great Captains' may put up an actual fight."

"Just a warning, Captain; Draco and Ben are confirmed to have eaten THREE Devil Fruits each. That's definitely a lot of power stacked up."

"Well then, they might actually just beat me, won't they?" Smoker chuckled as he grabbed his jitte while heading out of the office. "By the way, where's Tashigi?"

"She headed out early this morning. She said she'd show up for training."

As Smoker stepped out, a little girl accidentally ran into him while holding a three-scoop ice cream. Seeing her tears, Smoker bent down.

"Sorry for getting in your way like that." He handed her a 100 Berri coin. "Here, this should be enough to buy you a replacement."

"Thank you, Mister."

Smoker smiled as he watched the girl off.

"Helping people in need is what the Marines are supposed to be about. It's a shame so many are either morally bankrupt or blindly fanatical about 'absolute' justice."

As it happened, the next person he ran into was a rather typical pirate with a crescent-styled beard.

"Loot the entire area for food, men! Kill anyone who tries to stop you! This town's resources will be the first step on my way to becoming King of the Pirates!"

Smoker scoffed. "Gally the Crescent. Bounty of only 3,450,000 Berris, pretty average for the East Blue. And you think you can become King of the Pirates? You're not even strong enough to be Gol D. Roger's cabin boy, much less take his throne. I was hoping for a warm-up before my real hunt, but this won't even count for exercise."

"You dare mock me?!" Galley snapped incredulously. "Men, kill this idiot!"

Smoker simply smirked in amusement as his body began turning into actual smoke, shocking Galley and his crew as he lunged at them.

"WHITE LAUNCHER!"

-OP-

"Captain Smoker?" Nami asked as she, Nojiko, Penny, and Kaya finished their shopping trip.

"Yeah, he's the toughest guy from the Marine HQ. After the initial boom of pirates doing business here before sailing for the Grand Line, things eventually took a turn for the worse when villainous pirates started raiding just because they thought they could." The clerk explained. "But then Smoker took over and ever since most pirates wind up in the slammer after just one case of trying to raid a shop. The man's strength is extraordinary. Some say he even has powers from a Devil Fruit."

"So it's not just pirates that can get their hands on a Devil Fruit..." Kaya said, a look of intrigue on her face.

"I know this to be fact. A very close friend of my father has a Devil Fruit and he isn't a pirate, but one of the most well-respected scientists in the world!" Penny clarified.

-OP-

As the smoke in the port cleared, Galley and his men had been knocked out and tied up.

"Amazing work as always, Captain!" The lieutenant said.

"Just another small fry. Trash on the side of the road to be picked up." Smoker casually said.

Just then, Smoker eyed a familiar straw hat but the person wearing it didn't match the description of who he saw on the wanted poster. Still, being better safe than sorry, he approached.

"Excuse me, Miss. Are you lost?"

"Oh, hey! Do you know how to get to the execution platform? I'm new to this town and it is huge."

"One second," Smoker said as he took a large puff and let the smoke create a trail. "Follow the smoke."

"Thanks!"

As the girl left, Smoker couldn't help but notice the impossible-to-miss straw hat and put two and two together as he arched an eyebrow.

"So THAT'S Monkey D. Luffy...didn't think he was actually a SHE but then again, not everyone matches their profile."

"Sir, what should we do?" The lieutenant asked.

"We keep watch over her. I have a feeling she's about to do something special."

-OP-

Zoro and Kuina were taking a look at the selection of swords available for purchase.

"You're perfectly comfortable with Wado Ichimonji but I need something that fits my style," Zoro said to Kuina.

"Well you know I'm always happy to share Wado with you."

The duo then overheard a fight going on, with two thugs named Koze and Packy confronting a woman with glasses who carried a sword.

"Our boss is behind bars because of that monster!" Koze yelled.

"He's behind bars because he's a criminal who was attacking people," the woman retorted.

"Oh, you think you're funny!" Packy said. "Well, maybe your captain will find it funny when we bring him your corpse!"

"I don't know about that, but I do know he'll find it funny when I bring in two idiots who underestimate people based on their appearance."

The thugs laughed as they moved to attack, only for the woman to effortlessly draw her blade and dispatch the two before her sheath hit the ground. Zoro was impressed, at least until the woman tripped and fell, dropping her glasses in the process.

"Are you okay?" Zoro asked as he picked up the glasses and handed them to the girl.

"Ah, thanks."

As the girl stood up, Kuina's eyes widened in shock. The girl looked like she could be her twin sister with the only difference being the glasses she wore. The girl seemed to notice as well.

"Whoa! What the-?!"

"Y-You look just like me!"

"Who the heck are you?!"

"Okay, listen, hold on-"

"How dare you point at me!"

"You-you were pointing first!"

"It's rude to point!"

"You're being very rude! You're not even believing what I'm saying, you're saying I'm not who I say I am when I tell you who I am-!"

Zoro looked between the two as they began arguing while continuing to point fingers at each other. A part of him felt like this could be the perfect comedy set-up in another universe.

"You're pointing at me right now, as you say that! Look at you! Look at your finger! Look at your finger right now! What is it doing? You are pointing at me — YOU'RE ACCUSING ME OF POINTING WHILE YOU'RE—!"

"I'm not pointing, you're pointing! I'm just pointing at your pointing, which is different than normal pointing! You haven't seen pointing until I'm through with you, and then you'll know—!"

-OP-

Ben hummed as he strolled around town before finding a bar called the Gold Roger. With a hum of interest, he headed inside to see that the bar looked completely abandoned, save for one old man sitting at a table next to a human skull.

"Any chance I can have a bottle of rum, mate?"

"Sorry, the place is closed for good."

Ben arched an eyebrow. "Business went under? Taxes too high?"

"Nah, just decided to shut it down. What's a chap like you doing here anyway?"

"The bar got my eye. Mighty bold to name it after the Ol' King of the Pirates, eh?" Ben smirked. "Any stories on that giant skull you have with you?"

"This once belonged to a guy named Killer Giant. He was a villain who sent hundreds of pirates to the afterlife." The man explained before grinning. "But he finally met his match when he ran into Gol D. Roger, who sent him to the grave with just one blow."

He turned the skull around to show a large gash in the forehead. Ben couldn't help but admire the details.

"Roger struck with lightning speed! Despite the huge blade Killer Giant was famous for, Roger easily dodged it and ended the fight in the blink of an eye! Stabbed him right in the forehead where you see the wound! Killer Giant was accepting of his defeat in his final moments, wishing honor upon Roger as an Eternal Pirate, one whose legacy would last a hundred generations."

"Make that a thousand, savvy?" Ben chuckled.

"And he's not the only infamous pirate Roger defeated in his time," the man continued. "King Eric Down, the legendary gunman Silver Silver, the giant Gowns Brothers. They were all tough men feared as demons. But Roger made them seem as weak as newborn babies."

"And all that without a Devil Fruit. Just goes to show that despite the fun powers it can give you, you don't necessarily need it to be glorious." Ben smiled.

"Name's Raoul by the way. If you're interested in another story, then stick around for a bit. Though this is one most people don't believe." The man introduced himself before continuing. "In the days before Roger was known as the King of the Pirates, he was the only man who didn't fear the Grand Line. The area was largely unknown, and no one who went inside ever came back out, their ships swallowed by the waves. People feared it as a sea of evil that only devils could dwell in. But for Roger, it was nothing more than a simple stroll along the coast."

"Man had not an ounce of fear from what I've heard." Ben nodded.

"I could hardly believe it when he told me has was going. I thought he was mad." Raoul said as he leaned back in his chair. "I tried to convince him not to forget about going there. But my advice only made him more excited. He drank the whole bar and three others dry that day, then set off the next morning with a motley crew of the craziest pirates I'd ever seen. By the time I heard from him again a year later, he had successfully conquered the Grand Line. I was so happy, I almost forgot to be surprised. I was excited to hear the tales he told, the discoveries he made!"

Ben hummed. "I've heard more than a few tall tales myself. Always knew they had an ounce of truth to them."

"And then, 22 years ago today, Roger died on the execution platform. But he made sure he would not be forgotten, just as Killer Giant desired." Raoul sighed somberly. "He announced that his treasure was up for grabs, and his title of King of the Pirates along with it. The Marines who hoped to end piracy instead found themselves with more pirates than they knew how to handle. Every man or woman who knew how to navigate the seas tossed their hat into the ring. It was the beginning of the Great Pirate Era! But now it feels like the only pirates left are cowards and scumbags."

Raoul had poured himself and Ben a glass of rum each, both taking a swig from their glasses as Raoul continued.

"Men crazy enough to challenge the Grand Line are so few and far between, I can't remember the last time I saw one. I used to rub shoulders with some of the greatest adventurers of the early years of the Great Pirate Era. But now no one ever comes down here. So I decided to close the bar down for good."

Ben smiled. "Well, it just so happens that me and a motley crew of my own are just mad enough to challenge the Grand Line ourselves."

This surprised Raoul as Ben chuckled, taking out a gold coin with a skull engraved on it as he twirled it around his fingers before pocketing it.

"We couldn't settle on one captain, so we have FOUR, and I happen to be one of them. True swashbuckling adventurers are the pirates we strive to be, but one of us has the biggest dream of all; to find the One Piece and become the new King of the Pirates."

Raoul chuckled. "Seems the world still has just enough crazy left in it for true adventurers. Maybe I'll hold off on closing this place for a bit longer."

The two shared a toast just as Smoker and his lieutenant arrived.

"'Dead Man's Chest' Sparrow D. Benjamin." Smoker addressed. "Your reputation precedes you."

"So you've heard of me. Quite touched I am." Ben chuckled. "Here to arrest me?"

"There are no criminal activities on your record yet. I have no reason to try and apprehend you." Smoker clarified as he sat down.

"Good timing, Captain. I just recently decided to keep the place open for a bit longer thanks to this young man here." Raoul said.

"Glad to hear that. Not sure how I'd get through my day without my usual hangout spot. Shame it's so empty these days." Smoker said.

"Ah, too many pirates who just want to watch the world burn," Raoul said dismissively. "This lad here helped put me in a good mood."

Raoul poured Smoker his own glass of rum, which the Marine Captain took a swig from.

"22 years ago today when you first came in here, wasn't it? Just after that fateful event."

"Ah, so you were there?" Ben noted as Smoker nodded.

"I still remember the look on Roger's face that day... His hands were shackled as he was led down Main Street, yet he walked like a triumphant general. He spared only a single glance at me, but he was smiling the entire time. Gol D. Roger was a man who had everything the world had to offer. His final eulogy was one to remember."

"Destiny! Fate! Dreams! These unstoppable ideals are held deep in the hearts of Man! As long as there are people who seek freedom in this life, these things shall not vanish from the Earth!"

Raoul chuckled. "I still remember the look of disbelief on those Marines's faces as the entire crowd cheered."

"Well, I think I've taken your time, gentlemen," Ben said as he stood up after one last swig of rum. "But I'll be seeing you again soon, from the looks of it."

Smoker smirked. "I'll give you and your crew a headstart in that case."

-OP-

"Do you think Axol and Ruby made it back to the Merry okay?" Usopp asked Draco as they took the time to walk around Loguetown.

"No doubt, Ussop." Draco smiled. "Axol's shop was practically right at port and with their natural navigation? They'll be fine. It's Zoro I'd be concerned about.

They laughed, only for Draco to bump into someone; a large girl in a white cap with brown hair and a vest.

"Oh, hey!" The girl giggled as she got up, pulling Draco off her belly. "Sorry about that. I'm Hilda, nice to meet you!"

"Uh, yeah, I'm Draco..." The boy muttered, blushing slightly.

"Hey! That's him! We found one of 'em!" A Transponder Snail said.

"Whoa! Did that Transponder Snail just talk?!" Usopp gawked.

"That's right! Gottfried's the name and talking is my game!"

"Never thought a Transponder Snail could learn to talk," Draco said in intrigue. "What's your deal, buddy?"

"I ate theNoise-Noise Fruitis what I did!" Gottfried explained. "Made me super smart and let me talk like a human!"

"Much to my ears' pain," Hilda smirked. "But yeah, we've been looking to join you guys; we wanna join if that's cool. I'd be happy as a Guardsman and Gottfried is a natural Communications Officer."

"It's cause I can talk, ain't it?"

"And your species, yes," Hilda remarked.

"Oh, hey!" Noire suddenly called out as she and Sanji came over. "Fancy seeing you again."

"Well, I do stand out quite a bit." Hilda giggled. "I wasn't always so big, you know."

"Yup, this lady ate like a real pig!" Gottfried laughed. "She was thin as a rail, now look at 'er!"

"I'd like to think I'm drop-dead gorgeous now," Hilda smirked. "Standards of beauty are BS."

"Preach it, sister!" Noire smiled.

"Hold on, did that Transponder Snail just talk?" Sanji asked as he noticed Gottfried.

"That would be our new Transponder Snail partner," Draco clarified. "He and Hilda have been looking for us to join our crew."

Hilda nodded. "Harvey wants his voice to be heard and loved by all while I want to be the very best that no one ever was!"

"I hope that doesn't mean King of the Pirates because our friend Luffy already has that dream." Usopp chuckled.

"Don't worry, I'm not after that title. I just want to prove myself as the Strongest Woman Alive!" Hilda clarified. "Also...I want to fulfill a promise I made to someone before he died. A pirate captain who lost everything but still has a loved one out there who I need to see and make sure he's okay."

Draco nodded. "That's a kind-hearted promise you made and for a pirate captain you probably barely knew, no less."

-OP-

A little bit after Ben left the Gold Roger Bar, Buggy, Mohji, and Cabaji headed inside to lay low for a bit. As they did, Buggy used poker cards as a makeshift form of fortune-telling.

"Ace of Spades. In some circles, it is considered the card of death."

"So does that mean...?" Cabaji started.

Buggy shook his head. "Not necessarily, the Spade suit represents the king. Depending on the circumstances drawing the Ace of Spades could be an omen of a tragic death, or it could be a sign that one who is king in heart is destined to overcome death. The cards are merely telling us not to take fate at face value. But one thing is certain, Luffy is most definitely in this town. The time to test her worth is at hand."

"Say, do you know where Alvida went?" Mohji asked.

Buggy shrugged. "Probably out shopping, I bet. She did mention she needs new clothes to fit her new physique."

A whistle echoed through the bar as Buggy, Mohji, and Cabaji turned to see a hooded figure sitting at the table next to them with a glass of whiskey on the rocks in hand. His face was hidden but they could see his crimson red eyes.

"Well, well, if it isn't Buggy the Clown himself." The hooded figure chuckled. "In the flesh."

Buggy frowned, a familiar chill running down his spine. He remembered the figure from his childhood as a cabin boy on Roger's Crew. It had only been a passing time, but he had seen the man before.

"What are you doing here?"

"Just here for the show." The hooded figure said as he sipped his drink. "But Monkey D. Luffy is not ready for death just yet."

"We'll just have to see about that, won't we," Buggy noted.

"Don't be surprised when fate decrees that she live to fulfill her dream." Grimm D. Reaper chuckled before standing up and grabbing a bottle of rum before he began walking out of the bar. "The only way she'll truly fall is by natural causes...and that won't be for a long, LONG time."

Reaper just smirked before letting out his signature whistle and closing the door behind him, leaving Buggy and his two right-hand men with a lot to think about but their goal was still set.

-OP-

"This is where we go for quality blades. I'm sure you'll find something that suits you."

Tashigi said this as she brought Zoro and Kuina to a specialty sword shop. The two looked around the store with interest as the clerk greeted them.

"Welcome. Our store has been in business for 200 years and has produced the highest quality swords."

"We were given a budget of one million Berris from our crew's finances. And I need three good swords, so that would be at most 500,000 each."

"I need an extra sword myself. Just for safety reasons." Kuina added.

"With a budget like that you could easily afford our most powerful swords," The clerk noted as he stood up. "Here, let me show you our selection."

He then noticed the one undamaged sword in the duo's possession and couldn't help but inspect it.

"Incredible, you must be a professional at least if you have such a legendary sword."

"It's a family heirloom," Kuina explained.

"She and I share it. We're close as siblings, after all." Zoro added.

Tashigi gasped. "I thought I recognized it! That's the Wado Ichimonji! One of the 21 O-Wazamono swords!"

"According to my father, it was passed down through our family for generations," Kuina said.

The clerk cleared his throat. "Miss Tashigi, while you're here I finished polishing your Shigure."

He tossed her the katana, causing her to stumble and crash into a nearby sword display, knocking over several of them. Kuina couldn't help but stiffle a laugh at the sight and even Zoro looked away to hide the smirk on his face.

"How can one so skilled in the art of the sword be so clumsy in everyday life?" The clerk sighed before turning to Zoro and Kuina. "Anyway, as I was saying, let me show you our best swords. You said you needed four?"

"Three for Zoro and just one for me," Kuina said.

"I practice the Three-Sword Style." Zoro clarified.

"Wow, you must really like swords," Tashigi noted. "It reminds me of these two bounty hunters I heard of named Roronoa and Shimotsuki."

Zoro and Kuina looked at each other and smirked playfully. Tashigi clearly didn't know what they looked like if she couldn't identify the very bounty hunters she was talking about on sight.

"We've heard those two a lot on the East Blue. Said one of them has a Devil Fruit that's a legendary Mythical Zoan."

"Yes, but they're both very notorious. Using swords as bounty-hunting tools is unforgivable!" Tashigi said.

"What better way to take a pirate's head?" Zoro pointed out. "So long as the sword is respected, it doesn't matter what it's used for."

"Father taught us both that," Kuina added

"But shouldn't a sword be used for justice?" Tashigi asked in confusion.

"A sword is meant to protect life and sometimes that means killing one to save a thousand. But at the end of the day so long as a sword is used to keep everyone alive, its duty has been fulfilled. I'd say there's no greater justice." Zoro clarified.

"I never considered it like that," Tashigi admitted. "It just seems like all the greatest sword masters these days are either pirates or bounty hunters. And all the world's legendary swords are in their hands."

"Better that than gathering dust in a museum or collection," Kuina noted.

Zoro nodded. "Swords want to be used. They have their own soul that seeks their own path. Some are perfectly happy with the masters that wield them. Are you going to be so cruel as to deny them what they really want?"

Tashigi hesitated to answer. Her goal in life was to use her own sword to gather up the most legendary swords to keep them out of evil hands. But now she was wondering if said hands were evil, to begin with. Zoro smiled, then sensed something from the nearby bargain bin. He grasped one particular hilt and felt an intense bloodlust coming from it.

"That sword! That's Sandai Kitetsu!" Tashigi gasped. "It was created as an imitation of the O-Wazamono Nidai Kitetsu, which was an imitation of the Shodai Kitetsu, a Supreme O-Wazamono! How did a respectable Wazamono like this find its way into the bargain bin?!"

"Probably because it's cursed," Zoro noted. "I could tell the second I touched the hilt."

"I'm afraid he's right. The Kitetsu sword line has all been high-quality swords but also carries a terrible curse. Every master swordsman who's ever wielded a Kitetsu has met with a tragic death, even if they use it unknowingly." The clerk said. "These days most swordsmen won't even touch a Kitetsu sword. I felt tossing it in the bargain bin was the only way I could get rid of it without it cursing me too."

Zoro smirked. "Interesting. I'll take it."

"Zoro!" Kuina exclaimed in concern.

"I already decided to put my life on the line to become the World's Greatest Swordman," Zoro pointed out. "So if this sword kills me, then my dream was more fragile than glass. Let's test my luck against this sword's curse."

Kuina still looked worried but she understood Zoro's words and trusted his judgement. Tashigi and the clerk watched with bated breath as Zoro tossed Sandai Kitetsu into the air and held his arm out. They were then left amazed as the sword curved in midair to avoid Zoro's arm, then dug into the floor up to the hilt.

Zoro smirked. "I think it likes me."

"You always were one to take any challenge head-on." Kuina sighed but with a smile regardless.

"Unbelievable. I think a true swordsman like you deserves the best sword I have in the shop. One moment while I retrieve it." The clerk said as he headed into the storeroom in the back and came out with a sword that had a black lacquer sheath.

Zoro, having sheathed Sandai Kitetsu, now unsheathed the new blade.

"This sword... Its temper pattern is uneven. Yet the edge is sharper than most swords I've worked with."

"This is the Ryo-Wazamono Yubashiri. It's the finest sword I have in this shop."

"How much does this cost?" Kuina asked.

"Forget the money. Any swordsman who can tame Sandai Kitetsu needs the best swords available. So take them both on the house."

Kuina smiled at Zoro as he nodded and placed both swords in his sash. He then got an extra third sword as well to complete his style once more.

"Feels good to have our blade collection complete again."

-OP-

Draco and Usopp had gotten to chatting with Hilda and Harvey as they walked around town together.

"I cannot believe you got in a shooting contest with Daddy Masterson and let him live," Draco said.

"Hey, my dad did the same thing," Usopp pointed out. "I still can't believe he and Daddy the Parent even had a shootout."

"I can't believe this whole thing was over a pair of specialized goggles," Hilda giggled.

"I can't believe he let you keep the goggles." Gottfried quipped. "Seriously, we must be getting really close to the Grand Line if this kinda stuff is going on."

"Well, when you consider the situation we're in now..." Draco noted.

Said situation was a cooking competition that Sanji had entered to obtain a rare bluefin elephant tuna, native only to the South Blue.

"So this woman named Carmen is supposed to be the number one chef in the East Blue?" Usopp asked.

"That's only because most people don't know about Sanji," Noire pointed out as she had opted to spectate with them. "Sure the Baratie is famous. But how many of its cooks can you name off the top of your head?"

"Just Sanji, you, Zeff, Patty, and Carne," Usopp conceded.

They all winced when Sanji, enamored by Carmen's beauty, tried to kiss her hand only to get a frying pan to the face. Sonson, Kaya, and Penny also came over along with Ben, who seemed to be in good spirits.

"So, a Chef's Duel, eh?" Ben asked as he sat down.

"Ooooh, who's Sanji against now?" Sonson asked excitedly.

Many of the chefs proved to be some of the best, but Sanji easily found himself reaching the top bracket. Though Carmen certainly proved why she was labeled number one in the East Blue, meeting Sanji for the final round. However, it turned out Carmen had a fatal weakness in her cooking style.

"She's dancing around trying to distract her opponent while she uses simple cooking methods," Noire noted. "But the problem is once Sanji gets going in the kitchen, nothing can distract him. Not to mention he has a big motivation for wanting that elephant tuna."

Usopp then realized something. "Oh right! That fish can normally only be found in the South Blue! But this is the East Blue! So for a fish like that to be caught in these waters..."

"Could be taken as evidence that the All Blue exists," Draco finished.

"The four Blue Seas are supposed to be fully separated by the Grand Line and Red Line, but ocean currents are very fickle things," Penny spoke up. "And the South Blue is just one ocean over from the East Blue, so it's possible for a South Blue to wind up here in the East Blue. But one doesn't just cross the Grand Line like it's no big deal."

In the end, Sanji did win the contest. But there was a surprise.

"It really has been some time, eh?" Carmen smirked as she sauntered over to Sanji, raising an eyebrow. "Oh? You don't remember? Well, you were a little boy back then, so I don't fault you for forgetting."

Noire glared at Carmen and gritted her teeth. The older woman realized this and smiled.

" Oh no worries, sweetheart. This little gentleman and I were on the same ship with Zeff before I quit after the Captain ordered one too many steaks well done. Always meant to check you two out at the Baratie…"

Sanji's eyes widened, him suddenly remembering him trying to make sandwiches or sneaking flowers to a pretty lady chef, only to be pulled away by Zeff.

"My goodness! Such a culinary goddess returns to grave this humble chef." Sanji bowed gentlemanly.

"A girl trying to find you for ten years. I gotta wonder if it was about more than wanting to challenge you." Draco smirked at Sanji, who puffed out his chest in pride before being bonked on his head by a club Noire had manifested.

"Noire…!" The blonde chef whined.

"Excuse me, dumbass! I'm standing right here!"

Carmen furrowed her brows and grabbed Noire's shoulder.

"Listen, little lady, I don't know who you are, but unless Sanji does something to you…!" She then paused, giving Noire a look over, then smiling knowingly. "Goodness, you're beautiful!"

The Sous-Chef lost her angry look and struck a pose

"Yeah, I'm not too bad a catch myself…." She then chuckled in embarrassment,

"Well, no worries about me stealing him," Carmen whispered in Noire's ear. "But do sweep him up; not many ladies are as as…classy as I."

-OP-

Most of the crew gathered back together but Luffy was the only one suspiciously absent. As they looked around to see where they could be, Nami looked up and noticed something.

"The air's changed... It's going to rain soon."

"With the weather as nice as this?" Sanji asked.

"No, she's right," Ruby spoke up. "For as long as I've known Nami, she's been the perfect weather forecaster. During rough storms swimming in the ocean can be dangerous even for fishmen, so her being able to predict the weather was a godsend."

"Is it just rain, or are we in for a lightning storm?" Kaya asked. "Because if the Merry's mast gets hit by lightning..."

"Not just that, I did catch a glimpse of the execution platform while Gottfried and I were wandering around town and it's tall," Hilda said. "Tall buildings tend to get hit by lightning more than any other area."

"Well, Luffy wouldn't have to worry about getting struck by lightning. Her body is rubber, after all." Penny pointed out.

"I can attest. She's been hit by lightning before and it didn't affect her." Draco added.

"Hilda, where did you see the platform?" Axol asked.

"Right in the town square, actually."

-OP-

Sure enough, Luffy had finally reached the execution platform, staring up at it in wonder.

"So this is where Gol D. Roger's story ended, but his legacy began," Luffy said in wonder before grinning. "I wonder what he'd think of me for wanting to succeed him as King of the Pirates. There's so much I'd like to talk with him about."

Suddenly, a massive explosion hit the nearby fountain, destroying it and sending the crowd scattering. Luffy looked around for the source, only to see Buggy approaching.

"So you're still around, Buggy? Are you looking for revenge?"

"Surprisingly, no, There's something more important on my mind. You see, the last time we met I didn't know your full name." Buggy said. "And when I heard it... Well, to be frank, I couldn't believe it."

With a snap of Buggy's fingers, Cabaji suddenly grabbed Luffy from out of nowhere, dragging her up to the platform by threads before having a pillory slammed on her body.

"Even for someone with a rubber body, getting out of this should be impossible. The weight is more than most people can lift."

"Been a while, Straw Hat." Alvida smirked as she sauntered up.

"Iron Mace Alvida?! Did you lose weight?" Luffy asked in shock.

"I just so happened to come across a Devil Fruit after I escaped the Marines," Alvida explained. "It made my skin smooth enough that just about anything slides off it without issue

Buggy smirked as he made his way up the platform with a sword in hand.

"This will test if you truly have the same will as Roger. If you do, then either you'll find some way to escape or fate will tip its hand in your favor. If not... You'll be flashily executed!"

Smoker and Tashigi had been alerted to the commotion and ran in to see Bamia locked in battle with Alvida while Buggy had his sword raised to cut Luffy's head off. Despite it all, the straw hat girl was smiling.

"She's...smiling?" Tashigi asked in bewilderment.

"Roger was the same. The entire time he was being marched to his execution, he was smiling. And he never dropped even when the execution was being carried out." Smoker said, recalling that fateful moment from his childhood.

Thunder and lightning was starting to close in as the storm kicked into high gear. Buggy prepared to bring his blade down with the intent of decapitating Luffy. But despite it all, Luffy still smiled.

"Sorry, guys...Guess I died."

However, the blade never came down. Instead, a lightning strike hit the platform, causing it to come apart. Buggy wound up stunned from the shock, but Luffy was able to leap clear as the pillory fell away from her body.

Alvida smirked. "So...she really does have that Will of D Buggy was talking about."

Luffy managed to shake herself off as the rest of the Straw Hats came over.

"Should have known you'd get yourself into trouble," Draco smirked.

Suddenly, a Marine unit moved in to surround the square. Fortunately, the Buggy Pirates were making a helpful diversion for the Straw Hats to make their escape.

"Did Luffy know she'd be saved?" Tashigi wondered as she turned to Smoker.

"No, I don't think so. She probably thought her life was going to end there and accepted it. Just like what happened with Gol D. Roger." Smoker then turned to his lieutenant. "Where are the Straw Hat Pirates heading?"

"Out to the harbor, sir. Likely to reach their ship. Unfortunately, Unit One had to quickly return for refitting since the sudden rain made the gunpowder useless."

"The wind's blowing towards the west. It's the perfect tailwind for sailing." Tashigi noted.

"Almost like fate is conspiring to let them leave the island and continue to the Grand Line," Smoker noted. "But I've yet to gauge how strong they are. So for this one brief moment, I'll defy fate and stand in their way."

Meanwhile, Buggy pulled himself out of the rubble.

"Haven't had a headache like that since we broke the curse of the Ocean's Navel."

"That was just last week!" Cabaji pointed out.

"I'm aware, you idiot!" Buggy snapped. "But at least this proves it beyond all doubt. Luffy truly is marked by the Will of D, just like Roger was."

"Then there's no doubt the Straw Hats will break through the Marines' barricade. This might be our best time to vacate." Cabaji noted.

"Good idea. Make sure everyone gets back to the Big Top." Buggy said before turning to Mohji and Ritchie. "Boys, we need an escape route!"

The Marines were suddenly screaming in terror as the giant lion Ritchie rampaged through their encirclement. Alvida laughed as she joined in on the chaos with her mace andSlip-Slip Fruitpowers.

"Don't go hogging all the fun, Buggy!" She cackled as she rampaged; ever since gaining her powers (and new looks), walloping lovestruck fools had never been so fun!

-OP-

Several more Marines were trying to chase down the Straw Hats as they raced for the Going Merry.

"This storm likely means they haven't burned down our ship," Nami noted.

"But we've got a lot of Marines on our tail!" Ruby cried.

"You just leave that to me," Gottfried assured her, "Hilda, point towards the Marines!"

Hilda smirked. "You got it!"

Gottfried took in a deep breath as Hilda held him out in front of the Marines.

"SONIC CACOPHONY!"

The sudden burst of sound caused the Marines to drop to their knees holding their ears, while also blowing away most of the rain around them.

"Pretty cool, huh?" Hilda grinned at everyone else. "We've got the world's mightiest escargot on our side."

Suddenly, the sound of a motorbike roared through everyone's ears as Smoker pulled up to them.

"You're not getting away so easily. I still haven't had the chance to properly evaluate you, 'Four Great Captains'."

"Ah, had a feeling we'd meet again," Ben smirked.

Smoker returned the expression as his body began turning into pure white smoke.

"Let's see how you handle myPlume-Plume Fruit. With it, I've been able to capture many small-time pirates who tried to attack this town."

"Bring it on!" Sonson grinned as she twirled out her staff.

"WHITE OUT!"Smoker shouted, shooting plumes of smoke from both hands to try and entrap the four.

"Sorry, mate. Don't think smoke affects pure blood!" Ben smirked as his body turned into crimson blood fog, which moved around the smoke without issue.

Draco had also turned into pure blue fire, which canceled out the smoke as well. Sonson flipped and rolled around Smoker's attempts to grab her before cupping her hands together and tossing Luffy into the air.

"GUM-GUM PISTOL!"

Stretching out her fist, Luffy frowned when she saw Smoker easily phase through the attack.

"You're all pretty good. But I do have several years more experience than you in combat. This fight isn't..."

Just then, a powerful wind hit the entire town, blowing everyone in several directions. Luckily, the Straw Hats all wound up near their ship.

"What the heck just happened?!" Ruby exclaimed.

"Well, we're not gonna look a gift horse in the mouth. Let's set sail!" Sonson shouted.

Within minutes the Merry had left the harbor and was sailing off. Meanwhile, Smoker got up thanks to his subordinates and looked around. He gasped when he saw a cloaked man standing on a roof, his face very familiar with a distinctive tattoo.

"Monkey D. Dragon the Revolutionary..." He said, making sure to call out loud enough to get the man's attention. "What happened to acting all covert in your operations?"

Dragon paid Smoker no mind, just smirking before he said:

"I have my reasons. The world is still waiting for our answer."

Tashigi blinked. "What does that even mean?"

"He's being deliberately vague. It means he's not ready to set the World Government on fire." Smoker sighed as Dragon vanished. "For now, we report the incident to HQ. What we do from there is up to them."

-OP-

As the storm started to subside, the Straw Hats saw a nearby lighthouse.

"There it is. Beyond that lighthouse is the entrance to the Grand Line." Nami said.

"Oh, this is absolutely sensational!" Penny cheered. "Setting out to adventure with all my friends!"

"Lucky me and Gottfried caught you guys." Hilda giggled. "This is it, the big adventure I've been dreaming of!"

"I say it's only fair to hold a launching ceremony," Luffy said. "Everyone, let's shout our dreams to the world!"

One by one the crew yelled out their dreams.

"To become King of the Pirates!" Luffy declared.

"To vindicate my father!" Draco declared.

"To become the Great Warrior Sage Equal to God!" Sonson declared.

"To see the entire world and all its wonders before I die!" Ben declared.

"To become a master swordsman!" Zoro and Kuina declared together.

"To draw a map of the world!" Nami declared.

"To have the greatest adventure with my friends!" Penny declared.

"To become a brave warrior of the sea!" Usopp declared.

"To help all those in need!" Kaya declared.

"Poyo!" Kirby declared.

To find the All Blue!" Sanji and Noire declared together.

"To truly brave the Grand Line!" Gin declared.

"To draw the greatest story ever told!" Axol declared.

"To reunite with my family!" Ruby declared.

"To see that Nami's dream is realized!" Nojiko declared.

"To become the Strongest Woman Alive!" Hilda declared.

"To broadcast my voice to the world!" Gottfried declared.

"To discover the truth of my powers and learn who I really am." Melony declared in a sleepy yet still enthusiastic tone.

They each joined hands in the center of their group, one by one.

"LET'S SAIL! TO THE GRAND LINE!"

-OP-

Away from the port, hidden from view but allowing just enough room to spy the leaving Merry as it sailed away, Dragon stood from the crow's nest, a proud smile on his face.

He remembered a breathtakingly beautiful woman showing him two newborn babies; both laughing at birth.

'You'd be so proud, Hoshi.'The smirking man thought before, even though he doubted they'd hear, he called out:

"Go forth, my daughters. Live your lives as you see fit. We'll reunite soon enough."

He then leaped down and hardened his face.

"SET FOURTH!"

"Yessir!"

Knightmare Lord A/N:

We introduce Hilda from Pokemon Black & White, who's looking a bit more...THICC, if you get my meaning. If you want an idea of what she looks like, check out Pig Out by Jeetdoh on DeviantArt. Be warned, it's Fat Girl art, so don't look if that doesn't interest you.

Also, like This Bites! and Ash & Rubber, we have a sentient Transponder Snail companion. Only this time, he's based on and sounds like the legendary Gilbert Gottfried!

Since Kuina is alive and Tashigi looks just like her, I decided to do something fun and make a reference to the Spider-Man Point Meme. I hope you all liked it!

All that's left to cover before we're done with the East Blue is the Warship Island Filler Arc! Look forward to it!