Chapter 38: The Journey of Justice and Shadows.
Garp and Gion Set Sail for the East Blue________________________________
The Marine warship glided out of the Navy Headquarters, its massive sails catching the wind as it cut through the sparkling blue waters of the Grand Line. Vice Admiral Garp, known as the "Hero of the Marines," stood on the deck, arms crossed and his signature grin in place. Beside him was Vice Admiral Gion, the graceful and formidable Momousagi, her pink hair flowing like silk in the breeze.
They were accompanied by Bogard, Garp's ever-loyal adjutant, a man known for his sharp mind and swordsmanship. Bogard stood nearby, overseeing the crew's preparations.
"So, Gion," Garp began, cracking his knuckles, "why'd you insist on coming to the East Blue? I could handle this myself, y'know."
Gion smiled faintly, her voice calm but firm. "The East Blue may seem quiet, but these incidents... they're unsettling. Masked vigilantes, corrupt Marines, and villages torn apart? It's more than a coincidence. I want to see it for myself."
Bogard nodded thoughtfully. "She has a point, Vice Admiral. The East Blue might hold more secrets than it seems."
Garp laughed heartily, his booming voice echoing across the deck. "Secrets, huh? Well, I suppose it's good to have a second pair of eyes. But don't expect me to hold back if things get rough!"
Gion smirked. "I wouldn't dream of it, Garp."
As the ship sailed, the conversation shifted to strategy.
"What's the plan once we get there?" Gion asked, her gaze fixed on the horizon.
"We'll gather intel first," Bogard replied. "Find out more about these masked figures and the state of the East Blue. And if they're a threat..."
"We deal with them," Garp finished, his tone serious for a moment before lightening. "But let's hope they're not. I'd rather eat some good East Blue food than deal with more paperwork."
The crew chuckled, though the weight of their mission hung in the air.
Part 2: Atharva and the Crew Reach Frauce Kingdom______________________________
The Frauce Kingdom was a picturesque realm, known for its lush landscapes and elegant architecture. The port was bustling with activity, with merchants hawking their wares and ships of all kinds docked along the harbor. Cobblestone streets wound through rows of colorful buildings, and the distant spires of the royal palace glittered in the sunlight.
As Atharva's ships docked, the lively port fell into a tense silence. The sight of two ships flying pirate flags immediately drew wary glances and whispers among the townsfolk.
"What are pirates doing here?"
"Are we in danger?"
"Who are those people wearing masks?"
Atharva, donning his lion mask, and Nami, with her cat mask, stepped off the ship. The two of them led a line of pirates, all bound and defeated, towards the Navy base. The murmurs grew louder as the townsfolk parted fearfully to let them pass.
"They look dangerous..."
"Are they bounty hunters?"
"Why are the pirates smiling?"
The group reached the Navy Base at the edge of the port. Two Marines stationed at the entrance stiffened as they saw the masked figures approaching. One of them, a young recruit, shouted nervously, "Stop right there, or we'll shoot!"
Atharva and Nami halted, the Lion Mask tilting slightly as Atharva spoke in a calm, commanding voice. "We're here to hand over these pirates."
The Marines exchanged uneasy glances before one of them sprinted inside. Within moments, a Lieutenant Commander, a burly man named Jared Falk, emerged. His sharp eyes scanned the scene, lingering on the masks and then the pirates.
Falk pulled out a stack of bounty posters, flipping through them quickly. He stopped at two:
"Fat Captain" Grasso - 5,000,000 Berries "Bladewind" Kain - 8,000,000 Berries
He read the names aloud, his voice filled with disbelief. "You captured these two?!"
The pirates nodded eagerly, their expressions oddly relieved. Falk raised an eyebrow, muttering, "Who gets caught and looks happy about it?"
He turned back to Atharva and Nami. "Wait here. I'll arrange for the bounty payment."
As the Marines hauled the pirates away, Falk approached the duo. "I'm Lieutenant Commander Jared Falk. Thank you for this... unexpected delivery. May I know your names?"
Atharva hesitated briefly before replying, "Atharva. And this is Nami."
Falk nodded thoughtfully. "I'll remember those names. You're not Marines, but you're doing a service to justice. Have you ever considered joining the Navy?"
Nami nearly laughed but quickly composed herself, glancing at Atharva.
Atharva politely declined. "We have our own path to follow."
Falk looked regretful but didn't press further. As the officer returned with the bounty money, he handed it over, saying, "Keep supporting justice, however you can."
Atharva nodded, taking the money before turning to leave with Nami. Falk watched them disappear into the distance, their masks gleaming in the sunlight. With a sigh, he returned to the base, already preparing his report on the enigmatic duo.
To Be Continued...