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17.44% One Piece - I Am A Different Luffy! / Chapter 74: Chapter 73 - The world begins to know the Straw Hats!

Chapter 74: Chapter 73 - The world begins to know the Straw Hats!

[Chapter Size: 4449 Words.]

Third Person POV

In various parts of the world.

...

...

The conversation between Smoker and Sengoku took place a few days ago while the Black Pearl continued to cut through the waters of the sea in the subsequent days.

The days unfolded in an intense routine of training and rest periods for the Straw Hats. Although there were no alarming results, Luffy kept the group's determination high. He could perceive the constant evolution of each member, progress that brought a small smile to his face.

The daily routine consisted of training, resting, lunch, resuming training, enjoying the free afternoon, returning to training, resting, and, at the end of the night, celebrating with a modest feast. Luffy would end the day by sharing the night with three beautiful women.

"I'm enjoying this world more and more..." Luffy reflected on the building of his crew and the relationships he cultivated, feeling satisfied.

"Luffy!" The sudden call interrupted his thoughts. While enjoying some free time in the afternoon, the captain was sitting on the ship's deck, rereading the manual of the six styles. His companions, basking in the sun beside him, also turned their heads in the direction of the call.

Wearing nothing more than Hawaiian-style floral shorts, Luffy raised his sunglasses to see Nami approaching with a newspaper and a conflicted expression.

"Speak, my woman!" Luffy smiled at the nickname. She seemed hesitant at first but gave him a dissatisfied look at that comment.

In recent days, she had been extremely embarrassed since he slept with her when they were both drunk. However, Luffy had made her accustomed to the new routine. Despite this woman acting normally, she was in love with her captain. She even shared the bed with two other companions.

She sighed at her shameless captain and spoke.

"Your bounty increased, Zoro also had an increase, and Lami got a third bounty for the group." She said, and Luffy quickly grabbed the newspaper and wanted posters.

As Nami spoke these words, everyone who was busy with some task or pastime at that moment dropped what they were doing and surrounded their captain with curiosity.

"Look at our picture!" Luffy laughed, seeing the whole group with various people behind the fish-men and Captain Smoker. It was all of them except Kuina, who ended up taking the photo.

In the picture printed in the newspaper, the scene captured on the beach came to life in vivid detail. The white, fine sands stretched as far as the eye could see, the sky displayed a dazzling blue, contrasting with the intense green of the palm trees swaying gently along the coast.

In the center of the image, the Straw Hats' group was positioned in a relaxed and confident manner. Luffy, with his characteristic straw hat, sported a wide smile while pointing at something out of the frame, likely articulating some bold plan. Around him, the crew members struck unique poses and expressions that captured the diversity of personalities, from Zoro's tough posture to Usopp's contagious enthusiasm.

The fish-men and Captain Smoker were also visible in the image in front of the group, adding an unusual touch to the scene. The looks of the prisoners and the marine, clearly shaken by the unexpected turn of events, added a dramatic touch to the composition.

Kuina, not being with them, positioned herself a little apart, holding the camera with which she captured that decisive moment. The result was an image that defied expectations, leaving the Straw Hats' crew's mark on the East Blue.

"How did she end up in the newspaper?!" Kuina asked.

"I sent it through a contact to a Morgan News branch." Luffy stated shamelessly.

"It's a beautiful photo!" Zoro commented, looking at his tough pose.

"Hahahaha! We look like a mafia!" Hugo seemed excited.

"I'm in the newspaper!" Usopp exclaimed.

"But isn't it cool, Usopp-Sama?" Shirahoshi asked curiously.

"Sharky..." Megalo grumbled.

"...," Hachi remained silent as always.

"Of course not!" Nami protested the young mermaid's question.

"Don't get angry; you look beautiful in this photo!" Nojiko said to her sister.

"I hid my face. I hope that old bastard doesn't recognize me!" Yamato said with a smile. Luffy agreed to that during the photo, and she used her usual mask.

"OHHHH!" Bepo seemed to have stars in his eyes seeing their group photo.

"OW!"

"Yeah... it seems we're being hunted now." Lami said.

"Too bad you look kind of ridiculous with that sword on your back." Reiju teased.

"Speak the addicted smoker in the photo. You look more like a captive than a pirate in that picture." Lami snarled.

"What did you say?!"

"Hm?! Want to fight?!"

The rest of the crew sighed at the two women who seemed like cat and mouse at that moment.

Luffy ignored the women and began reading the newspaper like the front page.

In a surprising development, the mysterious figure known as Lami, previously considered a bounty hunter seeking justice, was revealed as an infiltrated member of the Straw Hat Pirates, secretly acting to collect bounties for pirates captured by the crew. This shocking twist adds a new element of mystery to the already enigmatic pirate group.

The Straw Hat Pirates, currently composed of 14 members, have emerged as a devastating force in the East Blue, leaving a trail of chaos and destruction in their wake. Their actions include the destruction of two Marine bases and the ruthless elimination of four of the most feared pirate crews in this region.

Fear spreads as the extraordinary feats of this crew defy all known conventions. With unparalleled strength, they have become a formidable threat to the established order in the East Blue. The sea is in a state of shock and apprehension in the face of the uncertainty of who will be able to contain the fury of this indomitable group.

As the notoriety of the Straw Hat Pirates grows, the East Blue faces a period of despair and uncertainty. The question lingering in everyone's mind is: who can face this threat and restore order to this tumultuous sea?

[Monkey D. Luffy: 50,000,000 Berries – Dead or Alive.]

[Roronoa Zoro: 10,000,000 Berries – Dead or Alive.]

[Trafalgar D. Lami: 30,000,000 Berries – Dead or Alive.]

"I've increased my bounty by five times! Now I'm the most wanted pirate in this sea!" Luffy laughed, radiating contagious joy.

"Not bad, but I still only have 10 million..." Zoro complained, examining his own wanted poster.

"At least you have one..." Bepo commented, looking at Zoro's poster with a bit of envy.

"I don't know how this serious woman has one, and I don't!" Reiju expressed her frustration, somewhat irritated.

"I was a bounty hunter. It's clear they're annoyed with me. But you're not even important enough to have one." Lami teased, with a mischievous smile.

"Hm?! Do you want to be kicked into the sea?" Reiju snarled, preparing for the confrontation.

"Wanna try, inconsequential woman..." Lami retorted, initiating a chaotic clash of kicks and sword strikes, with Lami using her fencing, and Reiju employing her agility and combat footwork to defend and attack.

It was after an hour that the women stopped fighting, and Usopp shouted from the mast.

"LAND HO!" He said, and Kuina almost jumped, as Nami informed them that they were close to her homeland, her father's house.

Meanwhile, the news in this newspaper was spreading to the far reaches of the world, reaching an island with the peculiar shape of a gigantic skull. In this sinister place, a man, known as one of the four dreadful Emperors, watched the newspaper with evident disdain. It was the second time in a few days that a group of young pirates appeared on the front page of Morgans News.

"Is there nothing else interesting to show in the newspapers? Why is there a picture of that bunch of brats on the front page again?" the Emperor questioned, displeased with the apparent insistence of the newspaper in highlighting this specific group.

'What makes this bunch special? They're not even in the Grand Line!' Kaido grumbled as he lifted his gigantic sake cup to his mouth, expressing his lack of impression with the notoriety of the mentioned group.

"It seems Morgan is out of subjects..." King commented beside, crossing his arms indifferently.

"Hm?! Who is this..." Kaido looked at the image with an initially disinterested expression, but as his eyes examined details, curiosity seized him. His piercing eyes scrutinized the figure in the photo, a person with white hair, wearing Wano-style garments, and a mysterious mask enveloping the head.

At first, he thought of a little brat seeing this, but he dismissed the possibility, internally denying the idea that it could be her. However, as he fixed his gaze on the image, he noticed familiar nuances beginning to emerge. The stature, the outlines of the clothes, everything aligned in a haunting way.

'Could it be... No... that brat disappeared a few weeks ago. There's no way he's in the East Blue with a bunch of rookie pirates...' A shadow of sadness crossed Kaido's colossal face as he remembered his daughter. Memories flooded his mind, and the initial look of disinterest gave way to heightened attention.

Kaido vented in a guttural cry, tears streaming down his imposing face. The furious expression gave way to a complex mix of emotions, from anger to paternal concern. Onlookers watched cautiously, already familiar with the repetition of these turbulent scenes in recent days, fully understanding the generally grim outcome that followed.

"Damn brat! Yamato, how the hell did you manage to escape from your old man!" Kaido bellowed, his voice echoing through the area. Tension hung in the air as he poured out his frustration and anxiety over his missing daughter.

King, positioning himself as the intermediary and the only one capable of calming Kaido's turbulent emotions, tried to offer solace. "Don't worry, Queen and Jack are searching all over the New World for Miss Yamato. She'll be found soon!" King sought to dispel the dark clouds enveloping Kaido, well aware of the issues that had arisen since the news of Yamato's disappearance spread.

It's a shame that King wasn't interested in the newspaper; in King's attentive eyes, if he had directed his attention to the photo, he would have promptly recognized young Yamato, even under the mask, as part of that peculiar group. Unlike Kaido, who resisted the idea, King, knowledgeable of the situation, would have identified her presence immediately, capturing details that transcended the physical barriers of the mask.

On the majestic Cake Island, where extravagance and opulence were the norms, a commanding and grandiose woman expressed her displeasure at the news presented in the newspaper.

"Tsk, just rookies in such a weak sea. Call Morgan and tell him to publish more interesting things on the front pages of the next newspapers! Also, send an invitation to the next tea party next week!" The woman's voice resonated through the location, echoing among the refined confectioneries and sugar sculptures, leaving a touch of disdain in the air.

"Yes, Mama!" The fearful and hurried servants promptly obeyed the orders, aware that failing in execution could result in unpleasant consequences and disrupt the harmony on the island of eccentricities.

The woman, in turn, observed the frantic action around her with an imperious gaze, ensuring that her will would be carried out without delay.

On a picturesque island in the heart of the New World, Shanks, the red-haired man with a distinctive scar, emerged from his morning hangover with a newspaper in hand. His eyes quickly scanned the headlines, and an expression of surprise and satisfaction formed on his face.

"Luffy!!!" The redhead's shout cut through the air, attracting the attention of his scattered crewmates in the area. A man beside him, calm while smoking a cigar, commented nonchalantly.

"It's the brat..."

"10 million and then 50?! That's really good. Dahahahaha!" Shanks began to laugh, a robust and contagious sound that echoed across the island. His crewmates joined in the celebration, observing the photo of the Straw Hat captain.

"Luffy has grown so much!" exclaimed one of the crew members, marveling at the young man's transformation.

"True, he has so many companions!"

"How did he recruit a mermaid and a fish-man in the East Blue?!"

"Dahahahaha. It's true; I knew that kid was special! I've never seen a crew with a mermaid. Luffy is truly unique!" Shanks shouted with joy, his enthusiasm evident.

"Hey, that one? Isn't that my son?" A man, Usopp's father, pointed to the photo.

"He looks like you!"

"How he's grown! Hahahaha. Luffy too..."

"It's true... Hm?! But he's changed so much... Maybe it's normal after so many years! Dahahahaha!" Shanks laughed as usual, appreciating the irony of time.

"Let's have a feast!" he announced, renewing the energy and excitement in his group.

"Yes, Captain!" the members responded, ready to celebrate the Straw Hat's rise.

On a boat sailing through the turbulent waters of this chaotic sea, a blond man with a pineapple-shaped head excitedly displayed a newspaper to his imposing father.

"Pops! This is Ace's brother!" the man announced, waiting for Whitebeard's reaction, whose laughter resonated across the deck.

"Gulalalalala! These brats are bold these days in the sea..." Whitebeard couldn't contain his laughter, revealing an expression of admiration for the youngsters' audacity.

"Pops... there's a mermaid among them..." Vista, scrutinizing the photo attentively, brought additional information.

"Could it be the mermaid princess Neptune told us disappeared a few weeks ago, and we're looking for her and any information in our territories?" Fossa, concerned, commented while savoring his cigar.

"It can't be her; she's 17 meters tall! Wait! Can't this be the red-shirted shark that Neptune described? Apart from the size, everything indicates it's the mermaid princess! How did she shrink so much with that shark?!" Jozu pondered, intrigued by the discrepancy in dimensions.

"So, she's in the East Blue with Ace's brother?!" Vista concluded with a question, his mind quickly reasoning.

"..."

"..."

"..."

"..."

"Call Ace; he should be in the first part of the Grand Line, I'm sure he'll find the brother. While he hunts down that traitor, he must inform us why his brother is with Neptune's daughter." Marco, the First division commander, proposed immediate action. Whitebeard, the leader, just nodded in agreement. Some members of the second division were already contacting Ace, who was pursuing Teach in the dangerous waters of the Grand Line.

On a distant and gloomy island in the New World, Doflamingo, the extravagant and sinister Shichibukai, lounged on his luxurious throne in the heart of his castle. The atmosphere around him was laden with an intimidating aura, with shadows dancing on walls adorned with luxurious tapestries.

Doflamingo's sunglasses, gleaming under the candlelight that illuminated the dark environment, focused on a specific image in the newspaper he held with peculiar elegance. His disdainful smile highlighted the sinister pleasure he felt while observing the picture of Trafalgar D. Lami, the mysterious woman whose wanted poster now occupied the pages.

"Fufufu. It looks like you've finally decided to step out of the shadows, Lami..." Doflamingo murmured to himself, letting out a malicious laugh. His eyes gleamed with anticipation as he continued to gaze at the woman's image in the newspaper.

While his glasses reflected a specific woman in the photo, he opened a wide smile. "Fufufu. I can't wait to meet her and make her use her fruit so I can obtain immortality! FufufuFufufu!" the man laughed like a madman in his castle.

Elsewhere, beneath the sea, the Fish-Man Island, located in the depths of the ocean, revealed a stunning underwater spectacle. In an ethereal and translucent environment, the underwater city stretched along vast colorful coral reefs and lush marine gardens. Buildings were made of water-resistant materials, showcasing intricate architectures and adornments carved from shells and corals.

The sunlight, filtering through the ocean's surface, cast soft, shimmering hues in every corner of the underwater city. Tritons and mermaids moved gracefully through narrow streets, enveloped in a serene atmosphere. Gardens of colorful anemones and exotic sea creatures added a touch of magic to the underwater landscape.

Columns of bubbles ascended from openings in the ground, creating a spectacle of lights and shadows that danced on the walls of the buildings. Marine life, with vibrant colors and fascinating shapes, swam around urban structures, contributing to the natural beauty surrounding the Fish-Man Island.

The submerged city pulsed with a vibrant energy, featuring bustling markets, public squares, and majestic buildings that displayed the cultural richness and architectural ingenuity of the Fish-Man civilization. This underwater wonder, hidden in the ocean's depths, was a testament to the harmony between terrestrial life and the splendor of the marine kingdom.

In the majestic Audience Chamber of the Ryugu Kingdom, an impressive underwater structure boasting intricate coral sculptures and colorful stained glass filtering ocean light, King Neptune, a commanding monarch respected by the sea's inhabitants, sat on his throne adorned with pearls and corals.

The three sons of Neptune, Triton, Princess, and Manboshi, hastily entered the room, each carrying an air of urgency. Their faces reflected a mix of excitement and anxiety, bringing with them a newspaper that had been faxed by Whitebeard's pirates.

"Father!" shouted Triton, the eldest son with an impressive physique and greenish hair, grabbing the king's attention.

"Hm?" Neptune raised his eyebrows, his gaze instantly focusing on his children. The room was adorned with tapestries depicting the glorious achievements of the underwater kingdom, but the tension in the air disrupted the serenity of the place.

"We found Shirahoshi! She appeared!" announced Manboshi, the youngest son, holding the newspaper in his trembling hands. The newspaper displayed an image of Shirahoshi alongside the Straw Hats, highlighting the surprising reduction in size of the mermaid princess.

"What?! Where is she?" Neptune questioned, his expression alternating between alarm and hope. The king's throne, carved with intricate shells, seemed almost small compared to the grandeur of the monarch.

"She's in the East Blue!" replied Princess, the king's only daughter, with a hint of disbelief in her voice. Details of the underwater kingdom, such as shell-carved arches on the walls, witnessed the cultural richness of the marine civilization.

"What?! How could she be there, and how did she get there so quickly?" Neptune expressed his confusion and concern, his fins waving nervously.

"She's in today's newspaper! We can't receive newspapers, but we got them from Whitebeard's pirates via fax." Triton explained as the other children surrounded the king with the newspaper, providing a view of Shirahoshi's surprising image.

"Look, Father, it's her, even though she looks quite shrunken. There's no doubt it's our little sister!" affirmed Manboshi, emphasizing the image of Shirahoshi next to the Straw Hats.

"It's really my girl! How could she have shrunk so much?! Who are these riffraff with her?" Neptune growled, his voice echoing through the room.

"I don't know, Father. She doesn't seem sad, but we have to save her from these humans." The elder brother expressed his concern, while the sumptuous decorations of the room witnessed the grandeur of the marine kingdom.

"There's a fish-man with that crew, how strange..." Triton observed, his eyes attentive to the discussed image.

"Anyway, contact Jimbei and ask him to go after these pirates now. I'll owe him any favor if my daughter comes home!" Neptune declared, his voice reflecting the urgency and determination of a worried father. The underwater sculptures and shimmering stained glass seemed to witness the king's anguish as he faced the uncertainty of his daughter's fate.

On a peculiar island in the first part of the Grand Line, colorful bubbles gracefully rose to the sky, creating a scenery as charming as it was mysterious. At the top of a hill, a modest bar provided a spectacular panoramic view, where the bubbles seemed to dance in harmony with the sea breeze.

Inside the bar, with a relaxed and pleasant atmosphere, a woman looked at the newspaper on the counter. Her eyes, alert and curious, focused on a specific image.

"Is this Hachi?!" she exclaimed, surprised, as her fingers flipped through the pages of the newspaper. The counter, made of weathered wood, gave a rustic feel to the place.

"It's indeed him, and he's not the only interesting one... That hat..." replied an elderly man beside her, with a nostalgic look. The bar's interior displayed nautical decorations, including fishing nets hanging on the walls.

"Hm?! So, he's the one Shanks-boy talked about?" the woman inquired, raising an eyebrow with curiosity. The gentle wind made the light curtains sway softly, revealing a spectacular view of the sea stretching as far as the eye could see.

"Yes, let's see what kind of turbulence he can cause in the world in this era or the next one approaching..." the elderly man said, watching the horizon with anticipation. The soft light of the evening painted the bar with golden hues, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

The lively conversations and soft laughter of the bar's patrons filled the air, blending with the gentle sound of bubbles breaking outside. This was a place where stories intertwined with the unique scenery of the island, creating a unique and mysterious atmosphere.

On a boat in the middle of that sea, the choppy waves marked the rhythm of navigation. The sky, painted by a vibrant sunset, provided a spectacular view for the animated crew on board.

"HAHAHAHA! This is Luffy!" someone shouted with enthusiasm as the waves gently hit the ship's hull. A camaraderie atmosphere enveloped the deck, where the crew shared laughs and stories.

"Yes, a rookie pirate taking the front page, it's unbelievable," grumbled one of the pirates, contrasting the celebratory mood. The sound of the sea breeze mixed with the crew's animated dialogues.

"LUFFY!!!" The first intruder snatched the newspaper from the other pirate's hand, expressing his unrestrained excitement. The orange sky reflected on the newspaper pages as it changed hands.

"Hey, give back the newspaper, you rascal! Hm?! Wait, who the hell are you?" the confused pirate questioned the intruder, whose presence was not recognized among the crew members.

"HAHAHAHAHAHA, LUFFY!" the man shouted again, choosing to ignore the perplexed pirate's questions. The atmosphere on board became a mix of curiosity and excitement.

"Captain, he's Ace, from the Fire Fist! Second division commander of Whitebeard's pirates!" a crew member clarified the confusion as the information quickly spread across the deck.

"What?! His Excellency Ace!" The tone instantly changed, the pirate now recognizing the significance of the figure before them. The sunset's light highlighted surprised and respectful expressions.

"Captain..."

"What?"

"He fell asleep..." An unusual observation brought a touch of humor to the episode, revealing the relaxed atmosphere that surrounded the crew even in the presence of such a renowned figure.

In the Marine headquarters, a stern and organized environment, a man smoked a cigar while examining the newspaper.

"Hm?!" His expression indicated surprise, and the room was momentarily plunged into silence.

"This name? Is he related to Garp?" A man with dark, thick hair, dressed in a blue suit, inquired as he examined the newspaper in his colleague admiral's hands.

"He has the same name as him, that's scary..." Another man, in a yellow suit, dramatized his reaction, emphasizing the possible connection between the two.

"Well, it doesn't matter... This just shows that he's a threat and must be eliminated," declared the first admiral, wearing a red suit and displaying a serious expression. The atmosphere in the room reflected the tension that the news had brought, and the discussion about the danger represented by Luffy was beginning to unfold among the leaders of the Navy.

In the vastness of another island, where sand dunes stretched to the horizon, a desert scene revealed an arid and enigmatic landscape. The scorching sun hung in the sky, casting long shadows distorted by the contours of the dunes.

Amidst this panorama, a mysterious figure walked gracefully, their silent steps marked only by the gentle whisper of the sand beneath their feet. The wind blew, lifting small dust whirls that danced around them, as if obeying an invisible command.

Suddenly, a female voice echoed in the desert, filled with surprise and interest. "Two D.s on one ship? How interesting," she murmured, her words blending with the wind that carried the essence of mystery.

The figure, dressed in a cloak that seemed to merge with the nuances of the sand, revealed only elusive outlines of their presence. Their midnight-black hair flowed gently in the breeze, adding a touch of elegance to the enigma they represented.

While the dunes stretched as far as the eye could see, the mysterious woman remained immersed in her own thoughts, contemplating something that transcended physical sight, something connected to the destiny that enveloped those marked by the D. in their names.

Near the imposing Reverse Mountain, where clouds hovered as silent witnesses, the atmosphere was charged with latent tension. The scene stood out with towering rock formations and shadows cast over the area, creating a sinister environment.

As the world moved in its complexity, a man with an astronaut helmet, whose face remained hidden under the metallic protection, found himself in the midst of this peculiar panorama. The gleam in his eyes revealed excitement, and a trail of snot escaped from his nose, adding an extravagant note to his figure.

"Hm?! Is this the mermaid I heard in the CP5 agent's call? I WANT HER!" he exclaimed, making clear his interest in the mysterious mermaid whose name echoed in an emergency call from CP5. His desire was palpable, as if the mere mention of the aquatic creature had ignited a consuming flame within him.

The man, immersed in his own ambition, recalled the information received during the emergency call, details about the presence of the mermaid accompanied by her guards. Reverse Mountain, with its majestic contours, served as a backdrop for this unusual scene, creating a contrast between the natural grandeur and the singular determination of the man with the peculiar helmet.

All that propelled this individual was the obsession to possess that mermaid, as if his own destiny was intertwined with the unrestrained pursuit of something that transcended the boundaries of the ordinary. The air was imbued with the intense energy of that moment, as the man, driven by his own ambitions, prepared to act in ways that only time would reveal.

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Chapter 75: Chapter 74 - Shimotsuki Village 01.

[Chapter Size: 3114 Words.]

Third Person POV

Shimotsuki Village, East Blue.

...

...

As Black Pearl approached the picturesque island dock, an atmosphere of anticipation and excitement enveloped the crew. The sun, dipping on the horizon, cast its golden rays over the scene, adding a warm touch to the imminent reunion.

"We've finally arrived!" exclaimed Zoro, his face revealing the excitement overflowing from his eyes as he caught a glimpse of his old island.

Kuina, by his side, seemed a bit nervous, but Nami, in a friendly gesture, gently touched her shoulder. "Relax. I'm sure your father will be immensely happy to see you again."

"Yes, we'll soon see the master's face." Zoro displayed a confident smile, conveying reassurance to his childhood friend.

"I've always wanted to meet that uncle. Let's go!" Luffy spoke with enthusiasm, eager to explore the Dojo and find Zoro's legendary master.

The arrival of the pirate ship did not go unnoticed by the population of the small town. While the anime portrayed it as a village, here it was a developing town, adorned with a port attesting to its growth and participation in trade.

The crew's notoriety was evident as people pointed at the ship and hurried to witness the arrival. Luffy's name and his crew echoed throughout the East Blue, the worst recorded threat in this sea, as highlighted in the pages of newspapers.

Tension swept through the town like a gusty wind when words like "Pirates!" and "It's the Straw Hats!" echoed through the streets. The villagers, gripped by fear, instinctively sought refuge.

"Run, they're the worst pirates in this sea!" shouted a resident, echoing the widespread sentiment.

"Summon Master Koushirou!" cried another, seeking protection under the possible defense of the respected local master.

"Yes, he can defend us!" agreed a third, as urgency drove people toward the dojo in search of safety.

Chaos ensued as Luffy and his companions disembarked from the Black Pearl. The captain, with his typical indifference, shrank the ship and stored it in his pocket, an act that only increased the villagers' already stunned bewilderment.

As they walked through the town, the commotion around them was palpable. Shops were hastily closed, windows were locked, and people ran to take shelter in their homes.

"I guess it's a scene we should get used to..." Luffy murmured, observing the chaos unfolding around him. It was a new experience for the Straw Hats' captain, who, despite his pirate history, still marveled at people's reactions to his presence.

Kuina watched the city with complicated eyes, a sight that harked back to her old home of years ago, or rather, that persisted only in her memories. The short period from her death until now seemed like an eternity for the girl.

Surprise stamped her face as she witnessed the transformations and growth of the place. What was once a small village now expanded like a forming city. The passage of years since her death was evident, and anxiety grew as she approached the reunion with her father.

"What will he say when he sees me? He won't believe I'm his Kuina," she thought, uncertainty reflected in her thoughts.

As they roamed the city, it didn't take long for a group of sword-wielding individuals to enter the scene, blocking the group's path and spreading fear among the population.

"Straw Hat Pirates! How dare you come here! We'll arrest you!" exclaimed some young ones, approaching Zoro's age. Tension was created at this moment.

"Wait, Lyn, Master Koushirou said Zoro might be among them and told us to know their intentions before confronting them!" said another youth beside him, his tense face expressing concern.

Lyn hesitated for a moment, processing the information. "Yes, it's true, is Roronoa Zoro among the group?!" she shouted to them. Zoro stepped out from behind Luffy, displaying his three swords at his waist and a nostalgic smile.

The seaweed-haired swordsman quickly approached the small group. "It's only been a few months since we last saw each other, and you've changed so much!" Zoro said cheerfully, noting the surprised expressions of the swordsmen around.

"It's you! ZORO! Hahahahaha!" The small group of swordsmen laughed upon recognizing an old acquaintance.

"We're here to see the master. I have something very important to show him!" Zoro explained, his serious eyes indicating the urgency of the situation. The men exchanged glances, contemplating the best approach in the presence of the pirate crew at the dojo.

They also believed that, besides Zoro being with them, Master Koushirou could easily handle the group if they wanted to cause trouble.

"Come on, Zoro, the master is already waiting and is quite worried about you; you disappeared after taking the wrong path to your dojo!" One of them said, with a conspiratorial smile, and continued walking normally, unaware of the wide-eyed looks from Luffy and the others.

"WAIT A MOMENT!" Luffy quickly shouted, gaining everyone's attention.

"ARE YOU SAYING ZORO TOOK THE WRONG PATH TO THE DOJO AND ENDED UP IN THE SEA?!" Luffy couldn't believe it, as Zoro had claimed he went to the sea on his own. He knew his swordsman had some directional issues, but this was beyond human limits!

"That's right! We were worried for many days about Zoro's disappearance when we separated to meet at the dojo later. It was only after a week that he showed up in the newspaper as a new pirate hunter on a very distant island!" One of the youths said calmly, reminiscing about the events with casualness. Zoro's expression indicated a mix of embarrassment and resignation in the face of his navigational mishap.

"..." Luffy.

"..." Yamato.

"..." Shirahoshi.

"..." Megalo.

"..." Lami.

"..." Bepo.

"..." Chouchou.

"..." Usopp.

"..." Nami.

"..." Reiju.

"..." Hugo.

"..." Nojiko.

"..." Hachi.

Zoro could feel his face turning red at this moment, while Kuina, hidden from the other youths, looked astonished at her old friend, wondering what level of skill it took to get lost so grandiosely.

"HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!" Luffy was the first to laugh in the midst of the silence that left everyone stunned.

"Bfff!! HAHAHAHAHA!" Yamato, with a wide smile and eyes shining with joy.

"HAHAHAHAHAHA" Nami, holding her stomach while laughing and winking at the others.

"Ehehehe" Lami, with an infectious laugh and sparkling eyes.

"SHISHISHISHI" Shirahoshi, laughing gently with her hands over her mouth.

"SHAR SHAR SHAR SHAR!" Megalo, showing his sharp teeth in a content expression.

"RARARARARARARA!" Usopp, with a mischievous smile and shoulders shaking with laughter.

"Zizizizizizizi!" Bepo, letting out an animated laugh and shaking his head.

"AU AU AU AU!" Chouchou, barking cheerfully and jumping around.

"HEHEHEHEHE" Reiju, with a sarcastic smile and an elegant laugh.

"AHAHAHA AHAHAHA!" Hugo, laughing loudly and clapping.

"HILARIOUS! AKAKAKAKAKAKAKA!" Nojiko, with restrained laughter but a glint of amusement in her eyes.

"Nee... Shishishishishi!" Hachi, emitting a soft laughter sound and shaking his tentacles.

"IT WAS AN ACCIDENT! I ALREADY PLANNED TO GO TO THE SEA ANYWAY!" Zoro shouted embarrassedly.

"But you didn't even say goodbye to us!" One of the young and old acquaintances of Zoro protested in the front group, crossing his arms with a disapproving expression while laughing at the situation.

"HAHAHAHA. Zoro, I've never seen someone start their journey because they got lost. You're truly unique!" Luffy declared, releasing a contagious laugh and showing his broad smile.

"TSK!" Zoro tried to ignore the group, even those who didn't interact much, like Hachi, were laughing at him.

While they still laughed, the famous Dojo finally entered their views, leaving the town center, where Koushirou made sure to remain in a more secluded corner.

In front of the place, a few other members of the dojo were waiting for the group, looking cautiously at the arriving pirate group, as by now, everyone on the island knew that the mighty Monkey D. Luffy, the most formidable pirate in the current East Blue, had arrived at the island's port.

"You, why did you bring pirates with you?!" One of them demanded from the first group, pointing at Luffy and the others.

"Master's orders, and look there, it's Zoro! He's back!" One of them spoke, and the others saw Zoro with great surprise, some with expressions of disbelief and others with joy.

"ZORO, you really came back and became a pirate!" Some of them said, accusing the user of Santoryu, with surprised and disbelieving expressions.

"This is my new path, it's good to see you all, but can we talk to the master; I have something important for him?" Zoro asked, maintaining a serious expression, and they quickly cleared the path in the next moment, still processing the revelation about Zoro's new direction.

"Zoro and I will go in first; after that, I'll call Kuina." Luffy instructed, with a determined tone, as not everyone would be able to talk to Koushirou at this moment. Luffy decided to have an introductory conversation before revealing the bomb.

Luffy and Zoro entered the Dojo.

The Dojo's room exhibited an atmosphere of Japanese traditionalism, with tatami covering the floor and a serene environment. Rice paper walls allowed the entry of soft light, giving a natural calmness to the place. Decorative elements, such as paintings and scrolls with Japanese calligraphy, adorned the walls, recounting the history of that respectable Dojo.

In the center of the room, Koushirou was seated, kneeling on a futon, enjoying a cup of green tea. His posture revealed a harmony between strength and serenity, a characteristic image of an experienced master. In front of him, a small low table held the tea pot and a few bowls.

Luffy and Zoro entered the room, sensing the seriousness and history that permeated every corner. The subtle scent of incense floated in the air, contributing to an atmosphere of respect and concentration. The room was in total harmony with samurai tradition, providing a striking contrast to the bustle of the outside world.

Koushirou, with his eyes half-closed in meditation, emanated a calm and thoughtful presence. As he opened one of his eyes, revealing the depth of his analysis, the room seemed to respond to his control over it.

Luffy immediately identified Koushirou as Kuina's father, not only due to physical resemblance but also the aura he carried. It was evident that this place was more than just a dojo; it was a sanctuary of wisdom and skill, where tradition intertwined with the present.

"Zoro, it's good to finally see you, and quite a surprise. Your aura has improved a lot, and Wado Ichimonji seems much happier in its sheath since the last time we spoke, many months ago," he said, opening one eye and assessing his former apprentice, then looking at Luffy.

'This guy is very calm, just like the character I imagined. I'm not sure, but he has some connection to my dad and the revolutionaries, but I doubt he knows about the relationship between Dragon and me.' Luffy thought briefly, looking at the man curiously, maintaining his characteristic broad smile.

"It's good to see you again, master." Zoro smiled as he sat in front of him, displaying a mix of respect and camaraderie.

Luffy just nodded and sat next to his swordsman to drink the tea, his eyes shining with excitement as he awaited the stories that would be shared.

"Tell me about your adventures and how you became so strong," Koushirou said calmly, but he was curious, attentively observing his former pupils.

Zoro began recounting his adventures since leaving the island, becoming a pirate hunter to earn money for food, and how he met Luffy, omitting information about Kuina. He detailed the battles, challenges faced, and victories achieved. He described his adventure on a pirate ship to this island.

"So, you faced Mihawk... Interesting, although even I wouldn't recommend doing something so reckless. But you survived and grew stronger. That's good, just be more careful," Koushirou commented, maintaining a serene expression, but his eyes betrayed a mix of concern and pride.

"I promised never to lose again. I will surpass him and become the world's strongest swordsman," the swordsman declared confidently, displaying determination in his expression.

"I'm counting on that..." Koushirou smiled, conveying support to his former student, and turned his gaze to Zoro's captain, seeing the newcomer from the sea, the infamous Monkey D. Luffy.

Koushirou clearly perceived the formidable aura emanating from Luffy. The young pirate was more powerful than anything the sword master could imagine. The powerful aura of the group outside the dojo did not go unnoticed, surpassing even that of Zoro himself. If these groups were to clash, the island would be at the mercy of an imminent catastrophe. Fortunately, however, there was no perceptible hostility between them.

Furthermore, Koushirou sensed a strangely compassionate aura directed at him from the renowned pirate group outside. Although one of the more subtle auras, it was as if he felt the presence of a ghost in his heart. However, the sword master quickly pushed aside this thought, knowing it was too painful a matter to address at that moment.

'Anyway, this pirate group is worth 90 million with their combined bounties, a big miscalculation by the Marines...' Koushirou murmured internally, dispelling the last thought from his mind and the aura surrounding him.

"Now, my student said there was something important here; something tells me you're involved," Koushirou said, looking at Luffy with a penetrating focus.

"You could say that. First of all, nice to meet you, Kuina's father..." Luffy said calmly, causing an immediate somber expression on the sword master's face.

Luffy didn't want to waste any more time here after hearing Zoro narrate his complete story. He didn't interrupt them out of politeness, but he wouldn't drag out the main topic any longer.

The inside of the dojo remained in a tense silence as Luffy's words echoed. Koushirou, the sword master, stared at the captain of the Straw Hats with an expression that mixed disbelief and danger.

"Why mention my deceased daughter; I doubt you knew her over 11 years ago or before she was killed..." He spoke, with a dangerous tone, his features stiff, revealing the pain of remembering a painful past.

Luffy, maintaining his composure, responded with a neutral voice, "Maybe I didn't know her for more than 11 years, but I certainly spent time with her in the last few weeks. She's a good girl; you should be a proud father."

Luffy's words echoed like a gentle breeze in the silent atmosphere, contrasting with the tension on Koushirou's face. However, the displeasure of the sword master became evident as he directed his dissatisfaction towards Zoro.

"Zoro, I taught you better than to bring someone to make dark jokes..." Koushirou expressed his displeasure, emphasizing his disappointment with his former disciple.

"Calm down, master, he's not lying. I spent that time with her myself. My captain managed to bring her back. I know it's hard to explain, but she's out there. You can check for yourself." Zoro intervened, trying to ease the situation.

The man stared at Zoro as if he had grown a second head. Not wasting any more time, Koushirou stood up, swearing that both Zoro and his captain would pay for this mockery. It was evident that he never expected such an unexpected turn of events from his trusted swordsman.

The dojo corridor was bathed in the soft light filtering through the windows, creating a calm and tranquil atmosphere. The muffled sound of footsteps echoed as Koushirou walked down the passage, unaware of the revelations that awaited him.

Upon reaching the dojo entrance, his eyes met with a group of stunned students, lying on the floor as if they had witnessed a supernatural phenomenon. In the center, an adult woman, with a mixture of nervousness and youth in her eyes, stared at the sword master. She appeared to be 22 years old, but her posture and expressions betrayed the uncertainty of someone younger, an 11-year-old girl.

"Kuina?!" Koushirou's voice almost faltered as he pronounced his daughter's name. His eyes widened, and his face paled as if he had seen a ghost, a ghost from the past that should remain dead.

"Hello, father... it's been 11 years, hasn't it? Funny to find out that I was dead all this time, for me, it's only been a few weeks, strange, isn't it... hm?!" Kuina began speaking nervously, not daring to look directly at her father. Surprise and perplexity dominated her as she tried to articulate her words.

Koushirou, still dazed, observed every feature of Kuina's face. His mind struggled between reason and emotion, questioning whether he was seeing an illusion, a projection of his deepest desires.

The students, now aware of the incredible twist, watched in silence as the atmosphere in the corridor became dense with tension and anticipation. Koushirou's heart pounded as he tried to process the unexpected appearance of his long-lost daughter.

Koushirou's initially shocked gaze gradually transformed into recognition and emotion. His facial expression revealed a mixture of disbelief, joy, and relief. His previously rigid body relaxed as tears filled his eyes.

His father, now visibly older after a decade, ignored social conventions and enveloped his long-lost daughter in an emotional embrace.

"Kuina?! Is it really you? How is this possible? I truly feel like you're my girl!" Koushirou's usually calm voice overflowed with emotion as he hugged his long-lost daughter. The dojo was still immersed in the unbelieving silence of the students, but the scene before them was living proof of a miracle that defied time.

"It's a long story..." Kuina said awkwardly but let her emotions show with teary eyes.

------------------------------------------

Author's notes:

* I would appreciate your feedback on the spelling quality of the chapter; I am using Chargpt to improve spelling and correct some small errors that I don't have time for, so I need feedback if possible.

* Correct Lami's name to Trafalgar D. Lami, which is correct.

* I am considering whether Reiju will also have Conqueror's Haki...

* I have always had Zoro refer to Kuina's father as "old man," but I believe "master" is the more correct term.

* I turned the Shimotsuki Village into a small developing city; I like to see things change and develop, so I intend to make some small changes like this.

* I don't want to make Zoro a clown or anything, but I couldn't resist putting this kind of event here, getting lost on the way to the dojo and ending up lost at sea.

* I hope the Shimotsuki family reunion feels natural.

---------

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