Tani basked in the sunshine from the cloudless sky, eyes closed while she relaxed. Was this meditation? Probably? It would certainly be easier if that stupid seagull stopped it's squawking.

Wait a second... Seagull.

"Land ahoy," Zoro's voice called from the crows nest. Nami looked at the horizon to find an island made of stone with a huge town upon it. She smiled at the realization that this was indeed Loguetown.

"Make a course for that island!" she commanded, everyone on the crew dropped what they were doing and took their positions to steer the ship on the right path.

Tani still wasn't much help in terms of sailing the boat, since she didn't have much experience. Instead she opted to observe Luffy, Zoro and Usopp, running around to prep the sails. Sanji steered the rudder, while Nami directed him.

This was it, the final island before hitting the Grand-line. If she recalled correctly, the Grand-line was a strip of sea that was bonkers to the umptieth level. Even those who had mastered the ocean, could fall victim to a spontaneous storm. Personally, Tani would like to avoid going to a place like that. Dying before she could make it home wasn't appealing in the slightest. She was gonna go anyway because staying with her crew was far more safe than being dumped on a random island. Plus there was no way Luffy was letting her leave the crew.

"Alright crew, what's the plan?" Tani asked with a clap. The crew gathered in the centre of Merry's deck.

"Sanji and myself will restock the ship's food supplies." Nami explained, holding up the list she was writing the other day. "Does anyone have any last minute requests before we dock?" Luffy instantly popped his hand up. Nami rolled her eyes. "Meat is already on the list." Luffy lowered his hand.

"We need more wood for potential repairs." Usopp chimed in. Nami wrote that down. Waiting for any more suggestions, when nobody brought up more things they needed. She popped the notepad back in her pocket and clapped.

"Now, this island is notorious for its marines. So I better not see any of you causing trouble." she pointed her glare at an oblivious Luffy, and a yawning Zoro.

"Merry will dock in about three hours." Nami estimated. "Once we split up. Everyone is to regroup before dusk." everyone nodded in agreement. With that, the group meeting concluded.

Tani wandered to the front of the boat once the group split off, she watched the island draw closer.

"Hey Tani," Luffy greeted, he perched himself on his spot atop the figurehead of the ship. "What are you gonna do when we get to the island?" he asked curiously. Tani thought about it for a moment.

"I don't know. Probably gonna just walk around and hope I don't get lost." she answered. Luffy hummed in response. "What about you? Got any plans, Captain?" Luffy gave her a big grin.

"I'm going to find the place where they executed Gold Roger." Tani's eyes widened in surprise. Well, that's morbid... At least he has a goal? Tani would prefer to pass on that activity.

"This town was the place he was born, and executed in," his gaze lingered on the island ahead. "I wanna see what he saw before he died." Luffy said with determination.

"He was the old pirate king." Tani recalled. "So it's kinda like a 'picking up were he left off' kinda thing. If you think about it, that is." which she was.

"Tani," Nami's voice called from across the boat. Tani turned to face the approaching woman.

"Sup?" the navigator stopped in front of Tani. Hand on her hip.

"Would you like to join me and Sanji with shopping?" she motioned towards the blonde chef in the background. "We could use a couple more hands,"

Tani thought about it for a moment. It was probably a good idea to go exploring with the others. Splitting up in this world was a risk that Tani wasn't making just yet. Especially with the rumoured Marines that swarm the island.

"Can you get me some more clothes?" Tani asked, motioning to her now rather ratty looking striped shirt, shorts and socks.

"Of course. We can't have you running around in the same shirt and shorts. You'll end up looking like Luffy."

"Hey!" Nami ignored Luffy's indignant cry.

"Cool, I'll tag along with you guys then." Tani declared. Throwing the navigator a thumbs up. Nami walked away with a satisfied grin. Leaving Tani alone with Luffy. The girl looked at Luffy with a nonchalant shrug.

"Guess I've got something to do on the island now." Luffy let out a laugh.

The island drew closer. Just a few more hours until they dock.

...

Once docked, the crew split up. Luffy took off before the boat finished being tied to the pier, the guy was on a mission to find whatever they used to execute the pirate king. Zoro was on the hunt for replacement swords, and Usopp was... just being Usopp.

"Our first stop should be the marketplace," Nami announced. Holding up her notepad to tick off anything they come across. Sanji had his own list of food items that were a 'must have' for the ship. Nami predicted earlier that they wouldn't have any other islands to restock on, for at least two weeks.

Tani kept her eye out for any clothing stores that peaked her interest. She wasn't sure if this world would have fashion that fit her style like home did. Were there big name brands here? Or was trading not a global thing yet? Gosh all this thinking made her head hurt.

"Hey Sanji?" Nami called the chef. She turned to her with a love struck expression.

"Yes, my love?" He turned to find the navigator holding two bags, one full of white rice and the other with brown rice. Both of which were large and heavy looking.

"Which one would be best? The white rice is cheaper," She lifted the bag in her right hand. "But I don't know if that's because brown rice is healthier or what?" Lifting the bag in her left hand. Tani was in awe as to how the hell she was holding both those bags with little effort.

"Brown rice is much higher in fibre and nutrition. That's the more healthy of the options," Sanji replied. Tani decided to tune them out, she didn't really care much for what's more healthy, just that she could shove it in her mouth and eat it.

Tani let her eyes wander the colourful market stands that lined the street. They looked just like the ones you'd find in the movies, or maybe real life. Tani had never been to a real street market, since the prices for everything were too much for mothers' budget. She couldn't help but let her legs move on their own, captivated by the strange knickknacks, street foods, and useless garbage that was definitely a ripoff but would be bought by someone anyway.

Suddenly, Tani felt her ears ring. Not the kind of ringing that hurts, no this was more like her hearing singling out one noise.

A bell chime. One that she's heard before. Tani turned her head to look around, maybe it was a storefront with a bell on the door. However there weren't any stores that fit the description.

The chime rang again, captivating her ears. Drowning the white noise of the bustling marketplace. Each step she took, the sound grew louder, and stronger. Why was she so fixated on that sound? It was just a bell noise. Yet it drew her attention like light to a moth.

Where is it-

"There you are!" Nami said loudly, clasping a hand around Tani's upper arm. Tani snapped back to reality. The bell's calls went silent, leaving Tani with more questions than answers.

"Come on, we found a clothing store just around the corner," Nami stated, pulling Tani along. The girl gave the navigator her full attention. The bell already falling to the back of her mind... Wait a second.

"Where's Sanji?" Tani asked, aware of the blonde's absence. Nami jerked her thumb back towards the market place.

"He was looking at the fish market. The smell was sticking to me so I left him to it." she replied. Tani nodded. "Now let's get you some clothes," Nami grinned. Tani suddenly felt like she was going to become a Barbie doll...

The store Nami mentioned, came into view. It was a small place, with colourful clothes on display in the windows. Clothes ranging from summer tank tops, to thick winter coats could be found in the store. Perfect for someone like Tani, who had literally no clothes save for the ones on her right now.

"We should come across more towns on our journey." Nami thought aloud, tapping at her chin. "So you'll need... One big coat, a couple shirts, shorts, skirts, socks-" Tani stopped paying attention to the red head after the word socks.

This was gonna be a long trip...

...

"Remember! Be back before dusk!" Nami called out from the Merry. Tani gave her a wave, turning back to her walk.

That shopping trip went by much faster than expected. Nami had an eye for fashion, knowing exactly what Tani's style was and rolling with it. They managed to find enough clothes to tide the girl over until the next island they find. Walking all the bags back to the ship was a breeze, with the sun still high in the sky. Tani wanted to explore.

Starting with a walk through the town, no direction in mind, Tani let herself absorb the old-timey look of the island. Stone everything, those old fashioned lamps that need oil to burn at night, all the store fronts looked straight out of 'Mary Poppins'. Which contrasted with the more modern styles of the people.

Tani found herself in the market place again, recognising the bags of rice that Nami and Sanji were talking about earlier.

That meant-

Before the thought had a chance to form, that bell chime from earlier caressed her ears. A little adventure of her own is exactly what she needed.

Walking forward, just like earlier the bell sound got louder and louder with every step she took. Keeping her eyes out for anything of interest.

Store fronts with bells? No. They all had this... Normalcy to them. She couldn't describe it, except that the store bells weren't captivating.

A few steps this way, the sound grew louder, more lively. She was getting closer in this little game of hot and cold. Turning into a much busier street, most likely the main street if the hustle and bustle was anything to go by. The loud chatter and clatter of the island, weighted nothing in comparison to that hypnotic bell sound.

A sound that was a bit too entrancing. Tani smacked her entire body into a brick wall.

"Watch where you're walking, brat."

Scratch that, it was a brick of a man. If the gruff voice was anything to go by.

Lifting her head to face a tall man with silver hair, though he didn't look a day over 35. He had two cigars hanging from his lips. Tired eyes, and wore an open jacket with no shirt underneath.

In other words, super intimidating.

Tani froze on the spot under his piercing gaze. She wasn't sure if it was just the aura he gave off, but she felt like she was interacting with a cop... Didn't Nami say there were heaps of marines on this island?

"Oi, kid?" his stare softened up slightly. Tani felt her throat ease up.

"Sorry! I'm so sorry," she apologised the moment her mouth could form words. "Lost in my own little world you know," she rambled off. The man crossed his arms, shutting Tani up instantly.

"Just watch where you're going kid," he gave of a tired sigh. "I don't want to be carting dumb brats like you to a hospital, because you're too up in the clouds to watch your step." Tani nodded her head.

"I'm sorry, sir." she said with a shaky voice. The man looked uncomfortable at the phrase. Shit did she say something wrong? Did she reveal that she was a pirate? Oh god, she can't go to jail yet! She's got so many things to do-

"Kid, you don't have to be so formal," he sighed again. Tani couldn't help but let out one of her own.

"Right, sorry sir. I mean, not sir but um... Officer?" she bowed her head in defeat. What an idiot she must have looked like.

"Just call me Smoker, brat." he offered. Well that made that a whole lot easier.

"Of course, Mr Smoker." She corrected. "Anyway, I should be going. Sorry to have wasted your time."

"Where are you headed?" he questioned. An interrogation, huh? Well... Tani just needed to keep herself calm. Can't be telling the marines her secrets.

"Just going for a walk, nothing special." she shrugged as casually as possible. "I need to be back before dusk, so might as well see everything I can before then.'' Was that vague enough?

Smoker puffed on one of his cigars, thick clouds masked his face. Tani could feel her throat tightening.

"It can be dangerous to wander around alone, kid." Smoker stated, Tani gave a nod. "Are you sure you want to be wandering around all alone?" Tani could see his thinly veiled offer to escort her around. He seemed genuinely concerned about her safety, something she appreciated.

"I'll be fine. I was taught self-defence techniques." she tacked that last bit on to quell his nerves. The more capable she appeared, the better. "And I'll stay in the main street. More people means less of a chance getting attacked, right?" Smoker still didn't look convinced.

"Can't be too sure with pirates running amok." he grumbled, furrowing his brow. Tani would have laughed, but she didn't wanna look suspicious.

"Then I'll beat them up myself." she grinned. "Trust me. There's other people on this island that need you, more than I do." Tani adjusted the straps of her bag, when that ringing sound appeared again. She still had that bell to find.

"Now if you'll excuse me," Tani peeked her head around the officer. Smoker arched a brow as the girl marched forward, seemingly looking for something.

Smoker motioned to follow her, when he felt another person bump into him. This time it was a little girl, who coated his pant leg in ice-cream. By the time Smoker looked up again, the young woman was gone.

Tani rounded a corner, finding herself in the mouth of a dark alleyway. The kind you would find in the movies, where all the drug deals and gangster stuff happens. In other words it was no place for someone like her. Especially with 'pirates running amok'.

Now that she wasn't in the crowded main street. Tani slid her bag off her shoulders, dumping it on the ground with a thunk... And a very distinct bell chime. Fingers unzipped the bag quickly, her other hand digging into the depths of her bag. It was down there somewhere.

Fingers skimmed over the smooth metal ball, finding the object of interest, she curled her hand around it and pulled it into the open. Staring at the simple, golden bell. Wasn't it silent before? Why did it chime now? Why here?

There's only one way to find out.

A new objective in mind, Tani scooped her bag off the ground and strapped it on her back. Can't have an adventure without your trusty backpack. The bell stayed in her hand.

Tani gave the metal ball a shake, earning a hearty jingle in return. She moved her hand towards the exit of the alleyway and shook it again. This time the bell was audibly quieter, and it wasn't because of the much louder main street. Moving the bell towards the alleyway, giving it another shake. The bell sang louder.

Bingo.

Wasting no time, the girl journeyed into the alleyway. Shaking the bell every five steps, playing her game of hot and cold. Every step she took, anticipation at what she would find at the end of this game filled her gut. What could it be? Something related to her being here? In her heart, she could only hope.

The alley way was void of all noise and colour, save for the bell that echoed back louder, and louder with every step. It felt like walking through a dr-

Was that music? Tani blinked a couple times, her eyes adjusting to find a soft blue light humming around the next corner. Could this be it? One shake of the bell, which cried out in victory, was enough to spur Tani forward.

Popping her head around the corner, Tani couldn't believe her eyes. Hidden within the nook of this alleyway... Was a convenience store. Sliding doors sandwiched between large glass windows. Posters promoting all sorts of things, in strange languages Tani couldn't read. A large neon sign at the top of the store read-

"IDCS?" Tani read aloud. She looked back down at the bell in her hand, then back at the sign. The top of the I was a bell, similar to the one in her hand. This had to be the place.

Tani looked at the entrance, shoving her hands into her jacket pockets. The bell safely in her hand. She took a step forward, the doors opened wide with welcome. Entering the building, the welcome buzzer was replaced with that familiar bell noise.

The place had this otherworldly feeling, like how Tani imagined a pocket dimension felt in a sci-fi movie. Uncanny in its familiarity, yet not quite right. That discomfort didn't deter her, if anything it pushed her to explore further.

Aisles lined the centre, about seven of them. All of them had signs, listing what could be found within the aisle. Food, drinks, clothes, and other things that you would find in a Walmart.

"Just browsing are we?" a silky smooth voice spoke from across the store. Tani turned away from the snack aisle to find a single store clerk, resting against the counter with a customer service smile.

Both their eyes were covered in long, shaggy bangs. Their skin had a bluish tint to it, though that could have been the lighting in the store. The store uniform sat neatly on their torso, with a cap to top it all off. Tani couldn't find a name tag though.

"Just browsing," she parroted. The clerk giggled, and continued to sit at the counter. Tani headed down the snack aisle.

The shelves were filled to the brim with all sorts of foods. Fruit, vegetables, dairy products, meats (Luffy would have loved that), and most importantly... The snacks.

Tani's mouth watered at the amount of snacks that lined the shelves. Some had names she'd never heard of, others were right at home. Bags of chips, chocolate bars, candy bags, and so much more. The girl halted her grabby hands, when she eyed the price tags that lined the shelves.

The currency wasn't berri or money, which meant that Tani was broke... Again. Though it broke her heart, Tani pulled her hands away from the bag of candy. Pouting as she walked out of the aisle. If she couldn't buy anything, there's no point being here. How disappointing.

"Not buying anything?" the clerk spoke up, before Tani could step out the door. The girl looked back, seeing a small frown on the clerks face.

"I don't have any money," Tani sighed. The clerk tilted their head, placing a finger to their cheek.

"What do you mean? You're rolling in it," they cheered. Now it was Tani's turn to tilt her head in confusion.

The clerk pointed towards Tani's jacket pocket. The girl looked down curiously, shoving a hand in each one. Her hand slid across a smooth, flat piece of plastic. Lifting it from her pocket, Tani was greeted with a blue card. The store's logo printed on the front, and a bar code on the bottom.

"This?" Tani held it up to the clerk, who nodded happily. "What is it?" the clerk perked up.

"That would be your IDCS customer rewards card." they explained. "IDCS customer rewards cards are used to store credits, which can be used to purchase any item within the store." Tani looked down at the card with a childish grin.

"So... I have enough money on here to purchase some... Snacks?" Tani fiddled with the card. The clerk gave a bell like giggle.

"Of course-" the clerk barely got the words out of their mouth, before Tani was gone in a flash. Returning moments later with her arms full of colourful bags and bars, and a small bottle of fizzy drink. You can never go wrong with carbonated syrup water.

Tani dumped the treats on the counter top, grinning happily at the clerk. Who smiled back with the same intensity. The clerk scanned each item, giving Tani the opportunity to start small talk.

"So, what is this?" she asked curiously, waving a hand around at the store. "It's a bit outta place. You know, with the running electricity and stuff." the clerk giggled, lifting their head to stare at Tani... Not that they had any eyes.

"This is your local IDCS. For all your inter-dimensional needs." Their voice emphasized almost every word. "Looking for a taste of home? Perhaps some common conveniences? Then IDCS is the place for you. Just listen to your IDCS bell to find the closest store to you." their voice recited like an infomercial.

Tani blinked for a moment as the information processed itself into her brain. Well that cleared up a bunch of things, confirmed others and provided her with a bucket full of new questions.

"So there's more stores like this?" Tani decided it was the best question to ask. The clerk clicked their fingers over the items Tani had purchased. A plastic bag formed around the items, topped off with a little bell tied to the handle.

"IDCS stores can be found anywhere with a population of 100 or more residents," they replied, handing over the bag. "Here we are. Can I help you with anything else today?" their smile stretched across their face. Tani shook her head.

"I'll be good for now... It's nice to know this place exists." Tani grinned. Sliding the plastic bag into the crook of her elbow. The bell on the bag gave a small chime. Similar to the one she already owned. "I'll be going now." Tani gave a wave, turning towards the exit.

"Have a fantastic day, Tanisha Lowe." the clerk bid farewell. It was only after Tani had left the store completely that she realized, the clerk knew her full name.

...

It took Tani a while to get back to the main street, since she wasn't following the hot and cold of a bell anymore. At least she hadn't encountered any cutthroat pirates yet.

The clouds had begun to dull with dark clouds. Looks like a storm is brewing... Maybe Tani should have grabbed an umbrella? It's too late to turn back now. She could see the main street up ahead.

Now that she'd finished her little adventure. Tani had no goal for the rest of the day, but it was still too early to go back to the Merry. It wouldn't kill her to go on a stroll through the town.

The main street was still bursting with life, an ocean of people flowed amongst each other in. Tani picked a direction and let the crowd take her.

This lead her to what she assumed was the town square. If the massive fountain was any indication. All town squares had a fountain, that's just how it works.

However, not all towns had a large platform situated behind the fountain. Tall metal beams held a wooden platform high in the air. You'd probably get a really nice view up there... If you weren't scared of heights.

Tani had been walking all day, and that fountain looked like a semi comfortable chair. There were no signs saying you can't sit on it... Tani planted herself on the edge of the bubbling fountain, sighing with relief as her legs had a moment to rest.

Sounds like now would be the perfect time to have a snack. Tani opened the plastic bag, dipped her hand inside and pulled out the first thing her fingers grabbed. The bottle of fizzy drink. The rest of the bag was shoved inside her backpack.

Popping open the cap with a satisfying hiss, she wasted no time drinking the sweet, bubbly soda.

"Get down from there!" a familiar sounding, tired man yelled. Tani glanced towards the voice, and sure enough there was a familiar, tired man there. Looks like Smoker was needed elsewhere, catching whatever trouble maker was up to no good.

"No! I've gotta get to the top!" oh shit, that's her trouble maker. Tani snapped to look up at Luffy, climbing up the support beams of the platform... That must be where the old pirate king was executed.

"Kid! That's strictly off limits. Don't make me come up there." he threatened. That wouldn't be a good idea. If Smoker didn't get Luffy first, then Nami would for causing so much trouble.

"I'm gonna see the world the way Gold Roger did before he died!" Luffy declared, before turning back to climb higher.

"Brats these days..." Smoker groaned. Tani kept her eyes trained on the marine, if push came to shove... Why was his hand turning white? No wait, that's more of a misty, see through white-

"Woah!" Tani slapped her attention back to Luffy. Who toppled slightly, his arms stretched from the spot they got caught. The rest of his body dropped to the ground, before flying back up. The captain went flying into the distance.

Did the idiot just turn himself into a slight shot? Cool.

Smoker looked at the spot Luffy was, blinking in confusion. Best not to draw attention to herself-

"You again?" never mind. Tani looked up at Smoker with her most pleasant smile.

"We meet again, captain." she mock saluted. Smoker sighed, rubbing at his brow. "How's the whole captain thing going?" he shot her a glare. Ok, maybe she should tone back on the sass.

"Other than brats like you, and that kid who launched himself to god knows where." he crossed his arms. "Just peachy." Tani giggled.

"Then don't let me distract you," Tani took a sip of her drink. "You've got pirates and crooks to catch." the captain hummed.

"Puru, puru, puru." came a sound from Smoker's pocket. Tani watched curiously as he pulled a... Snail?

"Cool," Tani whispered to herself. Smoker lifted the little snail in his palm. The thing had a pair of red glasses, and a navy blue shell.

"Tashigi?" he answered. The snail's face morphed into a whiny one.

"Smoker sir," the girl on the other end addressed. Smoker held back his tongue from correcting her. "It appears that 'The demon of the East' Roronoa Zoro has been spotted on the island." she reported. Of course that idiot was causing trouble. Tani continued to eavesdrop.

"Has he hurt anybody?"

"No sir," well that's good.

"Is he damaging property?"

"No sir," that's also good.

"Then why are you reporting him to me? If he's not causing any trouble, leave him be." Tani wanted to jump with cheer. Go captain Smoker!

"But sir-"

"Tashigi, focus on the real threats." with that, he hung up on the girl. The snail fell asleep in the captain's hands.

"Rookie?" Tani asked. Smoker gave her a sharp stare.

"You shouldn't be listening to private conversations brat." he scolded. A beat of silence passed before he answered her question with a quick, "Yes." Tani gave a nod.

"I get it. I'm sure she's just trying to help." the younger girl offered.

"The brat's gonna get herself into trouble if she starts fights with guys like Roronoa." he huffed. Aw, was that concern she could hear? Absolutely.

"You should go check on her. If there's one trope for all rookie types." Tani held up a finger. "They're always looking to prove themselves by throwing themselves at danger." Smoker let out a sound that could be compared to a laugh, but not quite there.

"Stay out of trouble kid," Smoker uncrossed his arms, and turned away. Heading towards Tashigi, to keep her out of trouble. Leaving Tani by herself again.

She found her gaze fixed on the top of the platform. The idea that someone had been executed there? That's something they did to rich people, roughly three hundred years ago during revolutions. Tani's hands brushed against her neck at the thought of a guillotine snapping down against it. At least they didn't have one of those up there.

Suddenly, Tani felt the hairs on the back of her neck rise. Her back straightened up, there was something off... She was being watched. Tani kept her composure as natural as possible, letting her eyes do most of the searching. She didn't have great peripheral vision, but in a world like this. She couldn't risk looking suspicious.

Nobody looked out of place, or dangerous. Everyone went about their days, walking around without a care in the world. That prickle of nerves in the back of Tani's mind wouldn't let her relax. There had to be something-

"HEY TANI!" the loud call set Tani off. The girl shrieked, and swiped her nervously balled fist straight into the guy that had grabbed her shoulder. The hit connected, sending the person to the concrete ground with a thunk. Tani got ready for a second attack, when she noticed who it was.

"Shit, sorry Luffy." she apologised. The boy looked up at her from the ground with a laugh. Tani offered her hand for the rubber man, which he grabbed.

"Did Zoro teach you how to punch like that? That was awesome!" he praised. Tani hoisted him back to his feet, feeling her face warm at the praise.

"Nah, that was just nerve fuelled adrenaline. It's rude to sneak up on girls when they're alone." Luffy shrugged his shoulders.

"My bad," clearly not sorry at all. Tani rolled her eyes playfully. "Anyway, I'm gonna get back to climbing the platform." he announced.

"Be more careful this time, you almost got caught by a cop." Tani reminded. "And you launched herself across half the island, dummy." Luffy ignored her, opting to stretch his legs.

Tani chugged down the rest of her drink, leaving her with an empty bottle and no public bin in sight. Guess that's going in the backpack. Tani dug around to make some room, when her hand brushed against the camera. An idea popped into her mind.

"Can I take a photo of you?" she lifted the camera, showing it off to Luffy. "So we can look back on the start of our journey to the Grand-line." Tani justified.

"Cool! Do it, I wanna see how awesome I look." Luffy replied enthusiastically. Tani hopped to her feet, she had made sure she was positioned in the best spot to get the perfect photo of Luffy.

Luffy made his way up the support beams for the second time today. Scaling the tower without delay. On the ground level, Tani readied to take the shot.

Luffy's sandals slapped on the wooden platform. The straw hat captain stood tall and proud at the top, absorbing the view that the late pirate king once witnessed.

"So this was what he saw before he died..." Luffy looked down at the ground, finding Tani with her camera. He should do a cool pose-

The camera had already clicked before he could decide what cool pose to pull. Tani gave him a thumbs up, then returned the camera to her bag. Luffy noticed movement from Tani's left. A cloaked figure with a big hat, made their way towards Tani. Luffy didn't like this cloaked person.

Tani finished zipping up her bag when that prickly feeling came back to her skin. She lifted her head to find a figure standing all too close to her-

"Hey Luffy," the cloaked woman called out. Luffy looked at her with a blank expression. "Remember me?~" her voice took on a more... Seductive? Tone... Ew.

"No? Go away lady." Luffy replied bluntly. The woman visibly tensed up with irritation, Tani took that as her cue to leave.

That is until two men grabbed her from either side. Holding her beside the cloaked woman, who laughed maliciously.

"Come on, really?" the woman cooed. "Maybe this will jog your memory?" with a swipe of her hand, the cloak was tossed aside to reveal one of the most gorgeous women Tani had ever encountered. The crowd let out a howl of appreciation at the sight.

"Nope, still don't know you." Luffy shrugged. "Can you go away now?" that was not the answer she wanted to hear.

In a swift movement, the lady revealed that she was in possession of a massive spiked mace. Swinging it an inch from Tani's head, causing the girl to let out a squeak. Adrenaline flowed through her veins, she pulled and struggled to loosen the men's grip on her.

"You better get thinking Luffy, or your little lady friend is here will be nothing but pulp." she held the mace above Tani's head. The amber glow on the girls face, drained at the threat. Freezing her attempts to free herself.

"Well if you want to be the pirate king so bad, why didn't you say so!" an obnoxious voice called from atop the platform.

Tani's eyes snapped towards the platform, in time to witness a wooden slab slamming over Luffy's head and hands. Her captain's expression held surprise, before scrunching up as he tried to pull himself free. His head getting caught on the neck sized hole.

It's Arlong Park all over again. Except he was on his own this time, facing off against... Is that a clown? What nasty sewer did this Pennywise knockoff crawl out of?

"Big nose guy?" Luffy twisted his neck at an unnatural angle to stare at his captor. The clown wasn't amused.

"It's captain Buggy, you dimwit!" the clown shrieked. Stomping his foot in anger, shaking the whole platform.

"Right, Bug guy," Luffy corrected incorrectly. Buggy pulled at his hair in frustration, taking a deep breath to calm down.

"Don't forget about lil' old me," the maced lady called out. Reminding Tani that she herself was in immediate danger. Less focusing on Luffy, he can handle himself. Now how was she gonna slip away from these guys?

"Still don't know you," Luffy reminded. It was now that Tani noticed the loud clatter of boots on the pavement approaching the town square.

Every opening to the town square was swarming with marines. The town square itself was covered in carnival themed clowns and performers with a pirate aesthetic... You can't make this shit up.

"Ugh, fine." the mace wielding woman grumbled. Lowering the weapon (thankfully away from Tani's head) to the ground. She proceeded to pull a pose while calling out to everyone in the crowd.

"Who's the most beautiful woman on the East blue?" she asked, her voice bouncing off the houses in the town.

"You! Miss Alvida!" every man in the vicinity cheered back, drooling over the sight of her. The marines weren't immune, many of them had to pick up their jaws at her Victoria Secret model shaped body.

"Oh it's you!" Luffy's face lit up as memories resurfaced. Alvida smirked.

"Of course it's me, who could ever forget such a beautiful-"

"You're not round anymore, or ugly. I barely recognized you." Tani wanted to slap the boy. You don't just say that to a woman! How rude... Then again, this is Luffy. He's a bit of an idiot.

Alvida lifted the mace over Tani's head again, her face looking royally pissed off at Luffy's rude comment about her looks. Tani's face began to sweat by the bucket. Her brain couldn't think of any escapes, no movie had fully prepared her for the real thing.

Tani kept her eyes on Luffy. Nervous sweat poured from her face, her legs didn't dare buckle under the pressure. Least she set Alvida off and boom! Squished like a bug.

"You little shit-" Alvida barked, only to be cut off by a shrill shriek.

"Alvida can you shut up!" the woman shut her trap, not looking pleased. "This is an execution after all," Buggy laughed maniacally.

Tani couldn't stop the scream of protest, as Buggy revealed a cutlass which he now held over Luffy's head. The boy didn't look concerned at all.

"Luffy!" Tani's voice blended in with the sounds of two others. Both familiar in their tones. Tani's face lit up, daring a glance at her nakama.

To the left entrance was Zoro. He now held three swords. Which means he found some new ones, to replace the ones Mihawk broke. Hopefully they lasted.

Sanji stood in the right entrance. Hands already in his pockets, anticipating the fight that would inevitably start.

Everyone waited with baited breath for someone to kick start the conflict. The grey clouds in the sky grew darker, rumbling with pent up energy.

"What are we waiting for?" Buggy decided to shout. Waving his cutlass around without a care. "Let's get this execution over with." quickly straightening the blade inches over Luffy head.

That instantly set the straw hat crew off. Zoro and Sanji dashed into the crowd, swords and legs ablaze as the pushed through the swarm of pirates. Kick starting the marines into pulling their heads out of their ass. Guns rang out, blades clashed, the town square devolved into a battle zone within seconds.

The chaos was intoxicating, many voices mixed into one roar of noise. Hard as it may have been to concentrate, Tani had to push through. Her captain depended on it.

Lifting one of her feet, Tani slammed it down on the closest clown pirates foot. Heel digging into the man's toes. A quick hiss escaped his mouth, hands releasing from her to relocate to the injured foot.

The other man who held her didn't get a chance to react before he was smacked in the nose with a yo-yo. Tani thanked the stars that she decided to pack them in her pockets. Her next plan of attack was so simple, a child would do it.

She shoved both men into the fountain behind them. Not waiting to see their reactions, Tani ran into the chaos of battle. If only she packed her skates. There's only so much she could do with her limited battle experience.

The girl ran through a thickened part of the crowd, hoping to find Zoro or Sanji. She could hear them, but the blurs of colour, and the darkening sky made it difficult to focus.

Fingers snagged around the collar of Tani's shirt, yanking her backwards without warning. Her stomach dropped, eyes widening with fear.

Only to watch a sword come flying down in the spot she was standing. A clown faced pirate looked up at her with a malicious grin, only for that smile to fall at the sight of whoever had grabbed the girl. He didn't get the chance to yell, before a misty white fist came flying into the pirates face. Sending him flying into another group of pirates. Tani looked up, feeling instant relief.

"Captain," she addressed. Smoker looked down at her with irritated concern.

"Kid, what the hell are you still doing here?" he scolded, dropping her beside him. No pirates dares to approach the marine captain.

"I was just sitting there when that lady over there," Tani pointed at Alvida. The woman was sliding around the battlefield, literally sliding around. "Threatened to kill me." it was true, so he couldn't blame her for that. The marine sighed.

"Just don't get in the way, brat." conversation effectively died. Leaving Tani with a temporary alliance. She held her yo-yo's with renewed vigour, if Smoker had her back, then she'd have his.

A pirate came bolting towards the pair, aiming for Tani. The girl tossed a yo-yo at the larger pirate, but he smacked the plastic orb out of the way. What a great start...

Tani flicked the yo-yo back, twisting her fingers to direct the weapon's return to an angle. The yo-yo flies back, smacking into the pirates head on the return to Tani. She didn't think that would actually work, yet here she was.

Caught up in the excitement of getting a hit, she forgot to finish the job. Now there was an angry pirate with a sore spot on his head. Pirate guys' fists didn't manage to get an inch within Tani's face. Thanks to the screen of smoke that flew up in front of her. Tani turned to find Smoker's arm was misty again.

Was Smoker made of smoke? That's an ironic name to have given a child with smoke powers. Was this a devil fruit thing too?

"Oi, kid?" Smoker's gruff voice called out to her. She shook her head to stare at the field around her. The smoke screen had lifted, revealing that clown pirate guy had been knocked out.

"Thank-"

Luffy's laughter echoed through the whole town square. Shaking it into silence. All eyes on the young pirate captain.

"Well, I'm sorry guys!" Luffy's face split into a grin. The cutlass in Buggy's hand had hit the peak of his swing.

No...

"But I'm already dead," Luffy declared, smiling in the face of death.

No!

"LUFFY!" Tani, Zoro and Sanji screamed in unison. Running towards the platform in vain. Hands reaching out to save their captain.

"Kid-" Smoker's call for the younger girl fell on deaf ears. Her heart beat pounded hard against her rib cage.

Luffy can't die like this. Not when he hasn't made it to the Grand-line yet.

A strong wind blew through the brown curls of the horrified girl's hair. The air smelled thickly of rain, heavy with condensation.

Time seemed to slow, the closer the blade drew towards the straw hat captain's head, mere centimetres from his neck.

It would take a miracle to save him now. Tani hoped with all her heart, that Luffy's luck would win out-

Tani's unintentional prayer must have been heard by the mighty Zeus. A flash of blinding light, followed by the crackling boom of thunder struck the platform. Sending a shock wave of power that knocked the entire population of the town square backwards. Tani landed with a hard smack into the concrete, her head swimming, and ears ringing.

Lifting her dizzy gaze to stare wide eyed at the now obliterated platform, and Luffy's unharmed self. The boy brushed off his vest and walked away without a scratch! He was seconds from dying, yet here he is acting like nothing happened.

"That was close," Luffy laughed to himself. Oblivious the awestruck expressions of anyone that wasn't knocked out, or reeling from the miraculous event. The rubber man bobbed down to grab his hat out of the rubble, blew the residue off, and plopped it on top of his head.

"LUFFY!" Zoro's voice rang out among the crowd, Sanji stood close by. "Hurry up! There's marines everywhere!" The swordsman warned. Thank you captain obvious.

"There are?" Luffy looked around with shock... Tani face palmed, instantly regretting the move when her head screamed bloody murder. Right, explosions aren't good for you. Tani covered her face, groaning in pain. Forgetting for just a moment that she was in the middle of a battle ground.

That is until Luffy came barrelling towards her. Hooking his arm around the girl's waist and making a run for it with his precious nakama cargo.

"Zoro! Sanji!" Luffy sprinted past them, laughing happily as he did so. His crew mates were quick to follow in their captains foot steps. No point sticking around, they got what they came for. Nami wasn't gonna be happy about the trouble they caused. That was a hurdle they could deal with later.

Rain began falling from the sky, hitting hard and fast after the first strike of lightning. Zoro and Sanji sped ahead, leaving Luffy and Tani lagging behind. Tani dangled from the captain's arm, watching the town square vanish from sight... Did rain cause mist? No... That mist is moving with too much purpose.

"Shit," Tani cursed aloud. She forgot about Smoker! The guys a cop, of course he's not gonna let anyone get away with breaking the law. Smoke snaked its way towards the pair, gaining on them without the rain hindering it. Tani was weighing Luffy down.

"Luffy, put me down right now." Tani demanded, keeping her eyes on the approaching smoke.

"Why?"

"Because there's a marine chasing us." She replied bluntly. Features of Smoker's body became materializing, they didn't have time for this. "I'm slowing you down, which will get us both caught."

Luffy uncoiled the arm holding Tani slowly, easing her into an upright position while still running. He kept an arm around her shoulders until she was running at a reasonable pace.

"Get back here!" Smoker ordered, Tani glanced over her shoulder. Squeaking when Smoker was only a few feet from her. The rain made it difficult to run-

Smoke coiled around the girl's foot, yanking her backwards. Her shoes lost grip on the wet cobblestone path, her face planted into the ground for the second time today. Smoker's hand grabbed around the collar of her shirt, hoisting her into the air.

"So you're a pirate?" Smoker's voice sounded disappointed. "What a waste..." Tani felt the fight within her fade. Hopefully Luffy got away.

"LET GO OF TANI!" Luffy roared. Tani turned her head to stare at her captain's incoming punch, his arm stretching from across the path aimed for Smoker's chest. He fist directed to the man's chest ended up phasing through it. Smoke surrounded the impact zone, circling around Luffy's arm and tossing him like a ragdoll. The rubber man bounced towards the officer, landing on the ground before them with a slap. Smoker pressed a foot down on Luffy's back, keeping the boy from escaping.

"Puru, puru, puru." The snail in Smoker's pocket rang. The marine tapped the snail, which quickly morphed its face into one of irritation.

"Captain Smoker! I let Roronoa get away I'm so sorry sir-"

"Tashigi can you be quiet for a second," He sighed. "I've got some pirates that need to be written up," the older man reported. Tani squirmed under the strong grip of Smoker. Man she really needed to learn how to get out of a hostage situation.

"I don't think that will be needed," a new voice spoke up. Smoker turned his head to stare at the shadow draped man. The sky rumbled, followed by a strike of lightning hitting the earth, lit up the darkened streets. Revealing more of the cloaked man's form, his Cheshire grin on display for a split second. Tani felt an air of power from him.

This was an individual that was out of all of their leagues.

Smoker's grip on the pair waned, still in shock over whoever that man was. Tani took the opportunity that lady luck had given her. Prying Smoker's unresponsive fingers out of her collar, she dropped to the ground with as much grace as a wet towel. She grabbed Luffy by the sleeve of his vest and tugged him out from under the marine's foot. Smoker didn't let his gaze leave the cloaked man.

Tani let herself pause, before running away. Keeping her hand on Luffy's shoulder, she shoved both herself and Luffy into a bow.

"Thank you." She directed towards the powerful figure. Who nodded in response, another crackle of lightning struck. His pearly white smile still present on his face.

Luffy grabbed Tani by the hand. They still had to get back to Merry before the storm got too intense. The captain dragged the girl away, who kept her eyes on the marine.

"So long, Smoker!" Tani called over the raging storm. The marine gave a glare, but Tani didn't see it. Turning to run alongside Luffy.

"We'll just swim then, stupid dart board."

Tani and Luffy caught up to Sanji and Zoro, the men were arguing with each other about the situation at hand... Namely that Merry was sailing away.

"You moronic moss! We can't just swim to the Merry," Sanji said angrily, headbutting into Zoro, who was just as aggressively headbutting back.

"How else are we gonna get to the boat huh?" Zoro asked with just as much snap. Tani was rubbing at her forehead. Luffy however already had an idea bubbling in his brain.

"Gum gum-" Luffy called, his right arm stretched towards the boat. His left curled like a hook. The arguing men ceased their bickering, watching the captain in action... Shit.

Zoro's eyes widened with realisation, his hands flying straight to the hilts of his swords, pressing them closer to his body. Sanji on the other hand, curled his arms around Tani. The girl did the same, this was gonna hurt.

"Rocket!"

Luffy's body flung forward. His left arm hooked around the three unfortunate crew members, flying them across the ocean at mach speed. Tani wailed as the wind whipped her face.

The group landed with a rough slam into the deck, though Sanji softened the blow for Tani by using himself as a pillow.

"A warning would be nice!" Zoro smacked the captain over the head. Luffy laughed in response.

"You're alive!" Usopp cheered from across the deck. Ropes in his hands.

Nami ran out of the steering room. Breathing with relief at the sight of her nakama alive on the ship. Sanji held Tani in his arms, checking over her to see if she was hurt at all. She was fine, just a little shaken bit not harmed.

"Luffy, you moron!" Sanji released the girl, and stalked towards Luffy. "You could've hurt Tani!" Sanji scolded, lifting his leg in preparation to kick the idiot. Only for Tani to jump in between them.

"I'm fine, I'm fine." she assured, waving her hands. Sanji cooed at her,

"Oi, pervert," Zoro called from the other side of the ship. "Make yourself useful." the swordsman threw a handful of soaked tarps at the chef.

Tani snickered at the two as they broke out into another argument. The heat between them wasn't malicious.

"Tani! Can you hold this for me?" Usopp called out, tossing some rope towards the girl. They still had a storm to brave. Tani put her game face on. Today's been crazy enough, she didn't need "Died due to crazy Zeus storm" added to the list.

...

"Everyone! Gather round," Nami called out to the crew. They'd managed to find a calm spot in the storm, or it had slowed down. The red head stood in front of a lone barrel, a large grin on her freckled face.

"We're on the path to the Grand line, so right here." she pointed at the barrel. The crew looked at it curiously. "We are going to make a vow, to follow our dreams," she declared. Lifting her leg up and placing it atop the barrel.

"I'm going to draw a map of the whole world," Nami stated with pride. A beat of silence before a brown boot was placed beside the navigators.

"I'm going to become a brave warrior of the sea," Usopp followed up. Placing a fist to his chest.

"I'm going to be the world's greatest swordsman," Zoro said, doing as the others had. His black boot landed beside Usopp's foot.

"I'm going to find the All Blue," Sanji joined. Gracefully planting his dress shoes next to Zoro's boot.

"I'm going to be the king of the pirates!" Luffy declared, planting his foot down proudly among the rest of the crew.

There was still space for one more. The crew looked at Tani with waiting eyes, she stared at them in thought.

What was her dream? She hadn't thought of one yet. She didn't really plan on being around long enough for a dream as grand as being the pirate king, or worlds greatest swordsman... What did she want to achieve?

This world was full of dangers, maybe she hoped to survive? No that was far too simple. Everyone wants that.

How about... No that wouldn't do... Or maybe... Never mind.

What does Tani want? Maybe... That's it.

"I'm going to learn why the universe sent me to this world," she decided, lifting her foot and placing it between Luffy and Nami.

Nami lifted her leg up into the air, the crew followed in suit.

"To fulfilling our dreams!" The crew cheered, bringing their legs down and obliterating the unfortunate barrel. The crew laughed and celebrated the beginning of their next adventure.

...

The others were enjoying themselves with a party, as was tradition on the straw hat crew. Everyone except Tani, who was having a hard time getting into the mindset for celebration. Her mind raced with all the questions she couldn't answer, and the stress of the day as a whole.

Actually, the stress of this whole adventure. The events of today were just one of three events that really made Tani think. Had she signed up for a life that would result in an early grave? Morbid as it may be, Tani was still young. She had so many things to look forward to, probably. Her mother was still waiting for her back home, and there was this whole dimension hopping stuff too.

Tani lifted the golden bell before her eyes, examining the key to this mystery. The thing remained silent as she shook it.

"Why am I here?" She sighed into the wind, letting it carry her unanswered questions. Pocketing the bell, she leaned against the railing. Eyes closed.

"Oi Tani!" The girl's eyes fluttered open. "You're missing out on the party!" a cheery voice called from the now open door of the kitchen, Luffy half hanging out the door. Tani turned to look at him with a solemn smile.

"Be right there. Just needed a breather," she waved him off, but the pout on the boys face showed he wasn't buying it.

"But it's lonely and boring being alone." He objected. Tani snickered, rolling her eyes.

"That's the point of taking a breather." She chuckled. Staring at the sky, hoping that Luffy would go back to the party. Sandaled feet approaching her from behind indicated the opposite. "You don't have to be here," She turned to look at the boy. Luffy crossed his arms and pouted even harder.

"Look," Here it comes. "I watched you nearly get killed today, and need some time alone to process that." she explained, he dropped the pout and gave her a blank expression. "It's made me think... Just how likely is it that I'll survive this trip. You know?" Tani slumped against the rail, letting her body melt over it. Luffy remained silent, so she continued.

"When we said our dreams, I really had to think about that. What's my purpose? Why me? Some random kid from the middle of nowhere." A small chuckle left her throat. "I'm scared... I don't want to die, but that's a very real threat." Luffy continued to listen, at this rate she'd pour her whole heart out.

"You almost died." She straightened herself up again, turning to look Luffy dead in the eyes. "You're the strongest person I know. Yet you smiled when that clown guy tried to kill you." She smiled. Taking a step towards the man she called captain.

Tani wanted to hug him, just to reconfirm to herself that he was still alive even if she knew he was. So she did just that. Her arms wrapped around his upper torso, she pressed herself against him. His heart was beating, his lungs were breathing. He was as alive as could be.

"I'm just glad you didn't die," she whispered quietly. Luffy snickered, hugging her back to further assure her that he wasn't dead.

"You seem to like giving hugs a lot," Luffy observed aloud, Tani tensed, fingers digging into his arms. Her cheeks burned with embarrassment.

"Oh? uh, yeah haha?" Tani removed her arms from around Luffy. The captain kept his arms wrapped tightly around her. "Guess it's just a comfort thing? Mum would give me hugs whenever I was stressed out," she explained. Luffy snickered, hugging tighter.

"Ok," Luffy planted his chin snuggly on her shoulder, Tani could feel him grinning. "I'll hug you when you feel sad or stressed out." He assured. Tani's cheeks burned hotter than a metal slide during summer. Her arms snaked their way around Luffy again, planting her chin on his shoulder.

"Thanks," she mumbled, already feeling a lot better. Luffy just gave really good hugs, not to loose but not too tight. It was comfortable and safe, two things that this world seemed to lack. "You're the best," she whispered. She pulled away, rubbing at her eyes.

"How about we go rejoin the party?" she smiled, Luffy nodded. His arm around her shoulder, the pair entered the dining room to rejoin the crew.

Everyone spent the rest of the night being happy in each other's company. Tani's fearful thoughts of the dangers that awaited the rookie crew on the Grand-line, were forgotten with every moment she cherished with her nakama.