章 25: Tesoro, Stella and call from Rouge

Nova and Robin were having the best time of their life, literally swimming in the pile of money, 10 billion Bellies to be precise. He seriously considered the idea of kidnapping World Nobles as a new profitable business venture whenever he lacked capital. Not only did he gain a large amount of money, but he will also receive a devil fruit of his choice. The best part of becoming Sichibukai was that his bounty was frozen indefinitely. Now he can leisurely travel the world, experience everything the world has to offer and build his organization without any worries.

Meanwhile, Mihawk received one of the Great Grade Swords, Mugen no Tsukikage Infinite Moonlight. An incredibly sharp blade that glimmered like moonlight even in the darkness of night. It was said to have been created by a legendary swordsmith, who imbued it with the power to cut through the darkness.

Mihawk held the sword in his hand and tested its weight. It was lighter than he had expected, but he could feel the sharpness of the blade. With a flick of his wrist, he sliced through the air, and the sword cut through a nearby tree like it was made of butter. He nodded in satisfaction and a small smile on his face. Although not as good as his Yoru, it would make a fine collection for a swordsman. He knew that Mugen no Tsukikage was not just any sword, but a true masterpiece of the swordsmith's art.

Tesoro and Stella watched in awe still shocked after today's events. They had never hoped to gain such help after their hopeless situation. Not only did Nova free them from slavery, but he also directly confronted the World Government for their sake. He was like a beacon of hope in their darkest moments. Tesero was overwhelmed with gratitude that he got the chance for a better future with Stella and he swore to himself to repay this kindness. He also learned one important lesson from Nova and Mihawk, to gain true freedom one must have the strength to protect themselves and their loved ones. Inspired by these feats Tesero and Stella decided to join Nova's cause and provide their assistance in whatever way they can. They approached Nova with timid steps, their heads slightly bowed. Nova looked up from counting his money and raised an eyebrow.

"What is it?" he asked.

"Master Nova," Tesoro said, "We have been thinking about what you said earlier. We... we want to be strong like you."

Nova leaned back in his chair, studying them for a moment. "And why should I take you under my protection?" he asked.

"We... we have nothing else," Stella said softly. "No family, no home, no money. We have nowhere else to go."

Nova considered their words, then stood up and approached them. He looked down at them, a serious expression on his face. "If I take you under my protection, you will have to work hard. You will have to learn how to fight, and how to survive. And you will have to be loyal to me, no matter what!"

Tesoro and Stella nodded eagerly. "We'll do whatever it takes, we just want a better life where we won't have to constantly stay in fear," Tesoro said.

Nova nodded, satisfied with their answer. "Very well. You can stay with me, but remember, you are not my slaves. You have chosen to join my cause and I expect you to work hard and contribute in every way you can. In return, I will take care of you and also teach you how to defend yourselves and become stronger."

Tesoro and Stella looked at each other, then back at Nova, determination in their eyes. "Thank you, Master Nova," Stella said softly.

Nova gave them a small smile. "No need to thank me. We're in this together now. Let's work hard and make our dreams a reality."

***

Meanwhile in Foosha Village:

Garp and Rouge had just learned what happened in the last few days when they read the newspaper at Partys bar. Rouge felt her anger rising and small embers of fire started to come out from her body. Her elder son Nova has just ventured out into the world and in two days caused so much chaos.

On his first day, he became a wanted criminal for destroying a marine fleet, on the second day he attacks the Celestial Dragon and makes him hostage. What's more shocking to both Garp and Rouge was that he got away scot-free with his bounty frozen and even became a Warlord of the Sea working for the Government.

"Guhahaha Rouge!! I didn't expect you son to be so bold!!" Garp couldn't help but feel amused.

"I leave him alone for a few days and he is already causing so much trouble!!" Rouge couldn't help but feel apologetic. She immediately opened her watch and dialled Nova.

The line rang for a few moments before Nova's face appeared on the screen. "Hey, Mom. What's up?" he asked casually.

Rouge took a deep breath before responding, trying to calm herself down. "Nova, what have you done?" she asked, her tone stern.

Nova chuckled nervously. "Uh, well, a few things. But don't worry, Mom, everything's under control," he said, trying to reassure her.

"Under control? You attacked a Marine fleet and kidnapped a Celestial Dragon!" Rouge exclaimed, her anger rising again.

"I know, I know. But it was necessary," Nova said, his tone serious now. "I had to free some slaves that were being bought by that Judas. And becoming a Warlord of the Sea will give me the protection and resources I need for now."

Rouge sighed, knowing that her son was always determined to do what he thought was right, even if it meant breaking the law. "Just be careful, Nova. The Government is not to be entirely trusted, even if they gave you a position of power," she warned.

"I will, Mom. Thanks for the concern," Nova said, his tone sincere. "And don't worry, I'll come to visit you and Ace soon."

Rouge couldn't help but smile a little at her son's words. "Take care of yourself, Nova," she said before ending the call.

Garp was shocked to see Rouge video-calling Nova. "What is that?? How can you see Nova's face from so far??"

Rouge smiled at Garp's surprise and said, "It's a new invention called a smartwatch. Nova made it himself."

"A smart what?" Garp asked, still looking confused.

"A watch that can do more than just tell time," Rouge explained. "It can make video calls, send messages, play music, games and even track your health and fitness."

Garp looked impressed. "That's incredible! I had no idea Nova was so talented."

Rouge nodded proudly. "He's always been good with technology. He's been working on this watch for a while now, and he finally perfected it."

Garp scratched his head. "I still don't understand how it works."

"It's simple, really," Rouge said, pulling out her own smartwatch. "You just wear it on your wrist like a regular watch, and then you can use it to do all sorts of things."

Garp looked at the watch in amazement. "This is amazing! I need to get one of these. Maybe he can make me one of these watches too."

Rouge smiled. "I'll tell Nova to make you one. He'll be happy to hear that you like his invention."

Garp nodded eagerly. "Yes, please do. I can't wait to show it off to the other Marines, especially that Sengoku."

Rouge chuckled. "Just don't let them distract you from your duties, Garp."

Garp grinned. "Don't worry, Rouge. I'm still a true Marine at heart, smartwatch or not."

A/N: I made up the name of Mihawk's new sword.

Next chap: Mihawk vs Nova