Casa's dream is to overthrow the World Government, dismantle Marine Headquarters, and defeat Fleet Admiral Akainu.
This dream is undeniably difficult to achieve, even more so alone. Rin was right,Casa needed a crew. Loyal allies who would stand by him, powerful fighters who would risk their lives for the same cause.
Rin's invitation.
Casa was moved.
Even more than that, he was inspired by Rin's ambition.
Their goals were aligned.
After a long moment of silence, Casa met Rin's gaze with unwavering determination. "Being my captain means carrying immense pressure."
"If you can't even handle that, what makes you think you can shake the world?" Rin chuckled.
Casa nodded slightly before extending his hand. "I see your determination, and you understand mine. From this moment forward, I will be your left hand and right hand, Captain."
"Naturally." Rin grinned, clasping Casa's hand firmly.
With that handshake, Rin had gained his second crew member.
No one could have predicted that these two young pirates, both still unknown to the world, would one day become legends feared by the World Government.
---
After recruiting Casa, Rin finally learned the truth behind his dream.
Casa's father had once been a Commodore in the Marines, a man loyal to justice. However, he discovered a dark secret—classified information about the World Government's covert operations. The moment he uncovered the truth, he became a target. The Government issued a silent execution order, and the one sent to eliminate him was none other than Fleet Admiral Sakazuki, also known as Akainu.
Casa barely survived, thanks to the desperate sacrifice of his parents.
They perished.
His understanding of Haki came from the training notes his father left behind, a legacy passed down to him.
Casa had joined this pirate tournament for one reason—to win the prize money, secure a ship, and gather supplies for his journey into the Grand Line.
After hearing Casa's story, Rin did not hesitate. "Your dream will come true."
It was not just encouragement—it was a promise from a captain to his crew.
"I believe in you." Casa's voice was steady.
They continued talking for a while before Rin finally stood up. "Alright, Casa, let's go. Our next crewmate is waiting at the royal palace."
"Oh?" Casa raised an eyebrow. "I'm looking forward to meeting them."
"You won't be disappointed." Rin smirked.
The two left the tavern and headed toward the palace, moving through the lively city streets.
---
As soon as they arrived, a royal guard approached them.
"Captain Rin, His Majesty is expecting you."
Inside the palace, King Kaidoly sat upon his throne, watching Rin approach.
"Mr. Rin," Kaidoly greeted him.
"Your Majesty, you called for me?" Rin asked.
"Yes," Kaidoly nodded. "First, as your tournament reward, you may select one Devil Fruit from the royal treasury. Second… regarding His Highness joining your crew."
Kaidoly sighed. "As a father, I want my son to stay. But his decision is his own, and I will not stand in his way. I ask only that you take care of him."
"You have my word." Rin's voice was firm.
The king studied him for a moment. A pirate's word meant nothing to most men, but Kaidoly could see it—this was no ordinary pirate. This was a leader who would one day command the seas.
Satisfied, Kaidoly gestured. "Come. I will personally escort you to the treasury."
Rin followed, anticipation rising within him.
The royal vault housed priceless treasures, but among them, the most valuable of all—the Devil Fruits.
---
The treasury was massive, its entrance sealed behind layers of steel doors and guards armed with Seastone weapons.
After unlocking a series of Marine-grade security mechanisms, Kaidoly led Rin inside.
As they stepped in, the glow of gold and jewels illuminated the chamber. Precious artifacts, legendary weapons, and piles of Berry bills surrounded them.
Kaidoly ignored the wealth, guiding Rin to the deepest part of the treasury.
There, stacked neatly in rows, were dozens of locked chests.
Each chest contained a Devil Fruit.
Rin's eyes widened. Zoan-types, Paramecia-types… and Logia-types.
His breath hitched as he spotted not one, not two, but three Logia Devil Fruits among the collection.
His heart pounded.
There was no question—Logia Fruits were the rarest and most powerful, granting control over elements of nature itself. Of course, some Paramecia Fruits possessed abilities just as terrifying, and Mythical Zoan Fruits were even rarer than Logias.
Rin clenched his fists.
If he chose wisely, this could be the key to his rise as a legend.
The moment of decision had arrived.
...
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