[A/N: you all guys at least give a power stone for this]
**Chapter 40 — The Red-Nosed Menace**
*Sunny POV*
The streets of Orange Town were cloaked in an eerie silence, the kind that settles after a storm—or, in this case, a clown-induced catastrophe. Dust motes danced lazily in the slanted beams of afternoon sunlight, glinting like tiny fireflies before settling on the wreckage: splintered crates spilling their contents across the cobblestones, overturned market stalls with tattered awnings flapping like wounded birds, and deep craters pockmarking the ground like the acne-scarred face of a wayward giant. The air was thick with the acrid sting of gunpowder, undercut by the sickly-sweet scent of spilled circus popcorn and a faint metallic tang—likely rust from the shoddy weapons of the pirates who'd turned this place into their personal playground. A loose shutter creaked mournfully in the breeze, swaying back and forth like a metronome ticking down to trouble. The townsfolk had clearly made a unanimous decision: *Not our circus, not our monkeys.* Doors were barred, windows shuttered, and the only signs of life were the skittering of rats rummaging through the debris and a wary tabby cat glaring at us from a rooftop, its tail flicking like it was judging our life choices.
Unfortunately for us, this was *our* circus now. We'd sailed into Orange Town with dreams of resupplying—stocking up on crates of juicy oranges from the market Nami had been raving about for days, grabbing ropes and canvas for our rickety boat, maybe even snagging a few cheap trinkets to lift our spirits. Instead, we found a ghost town painted in the garish colors of destruction, like a carnival abandoned mid-show after someone let the clowns run wild. Our little crew—me, Lucy, Zoro, and Nami—stood in the middle of the main street, the sea breeze tugging at our clothes, the weight of an impending showdown settling over us like a storm cloud.
"Oi!" Lucy cupped her hands around her mouth, her voice booming across the empty square like a foghorn cutting through fog. Her straw hat flopped forward, casting a shadow over her wide, mischievous eyes, sparkling with unbridled enthusiasm. "Anybody home?! We're here to steal—uh, I mean *borrow*—the market deals! Come on out, we promise not to eat *everything*! Just the meat and maybe some ice cream!" She bounced on her toes, her arms flailing like she was auditioning for the role of "World's Most Chaotic Shopper."
"Lucy," Zoro groaned, rubbing his temples with the hilt of his katana, his green hair mussed by the wind. He looked like he'd sell his swords for a nap under a palm tree right about now. "You sound like a complete idiot. Shouting like that's just begging every pirate in a ten-mile radius to come for our heads."
"That's because you don't have the imagination to appreciate bargains, Zoro!" Lucy shot back, puffing out her cheeks like an indignant chipmunk, her hat tilting precariously as she struck a dramatic pose. "Think about it—half-off on meat! Discounts on treasure maps! We could stock up for the Grand Line and still have beri left for *chocolate* ice cream! Or maybe even meat-flavored ice cream! Doesn't that sound amazing?"
Nami, a few steps ahead with her weathered map clutched tightly in one hand, rolled her eyes so hard I thought they might roll right out of her head and start charting their own course. Her orange hair caught the sunlight like a flame, and her voice dripped with exasperation. "Lucy, this isn't a flea market. The town's been ransacked by pirates—probably that clown we heard about in the last port. And shouting like that? You're going to get us ambushed before I can even find a decent orange stall to haggle with." Despite her sharp tone, a reluctant smile tugged at her lips, betraying the fondness she tried to bury under her navigator's pragmatism.
I chuckled under my breath, trailing behind the group with my hands tucked casually into my pockets, my boots crunching on the scattered debris. My Observation Haki hummed faintly, scanning the area for threats. I picked up the faint, flickering auras of townsfolk cowering in basements, their fear sharp and tangy like overripe fruit. There was a distant rumble of something mechanical—cannons, maybe?—and a gaudy, over-the-top presence that screamed "villain with an ego the size of an island." It was chaotic, theatrical, reeking of cheap rum and confetti, with a core of insecurity that practically begged to be poked. *Trouble's coming,* I thought, but I kept my tone light, a grin playing on my lips. "Let her have her fun, Nami. If trouble finds us, we'll handle it. Besides, Lucy's right—bargains are important. Remember that time in Shells Town when you haggled that vendor down to half price on those boots? Legendary. You practically had him crying by the end."
Nami glanced back at me, her eyes sparkling with amusement despite her scowl. She slowed her pace, falling in step beside me, her shoulder brushing mine in that deliberate, heart-fluttering way that made my pulse skip. "Don't remind me. Those boots were worth every beri I saved—and they make my legs look *amazing*. But if we get ambushed because of her yelling, I'm blaming you for enabling her, Sunny." Her voice was teasing, and her fingers grazed my arm, sending a warm spark through me that had nothing to do with the sun blazing overhead. The touch was fleeting but intentional, a quiet moment of romance amid the impending chaos.
*{Ego}: Pathetic. One graze from her, and you're melting like ice cream in a heatwave. Get a grip, master, or she'll have you carrying her bags next.*
*[System]: Ooh~ Heart rate up 10%! Nami's proximity is sending Master's circuits into a tizzy! Romantic potential spiking—detected subtle flirtation in her touch. Recommend leaning closer to seal the deal. Ara~ Ara~ ♥*
I shot a mental glare at the voices in my head, focusing instead on Nami's smirk. "Enabling? Me? I'm just keeping the crew morale high," I said, leaning closer so my breath tickled her ear, my voice dropping to a playful murmur. "Besides, you look *adorable* when you're annoyed. Like a navigator plotting my demise."
Her cheeks flushed a faint pink, and she swatted my arm lightly, but her smile widened, her eyes locking with mine in a way that made the wrecked street fade away for a moment. "Smooth talker. Save it for after we survive this mess, or I'll charge you interest on every flirt." Her tone was teasing, but there was a softness there, a promise of more moments like this when the dust settled.
Before Zoro could fire back another quip or Lucy could launch into a full-on sales pitch for imaginary meat-flavored ice cream, a booming, theatrical laugh echoed down the street, bouncing off the shattered buildings like a poorly rehearsed opera gone rogue.
"GYAAAHAHAHAHA! Bargains?! In *MY* town?! The only thing you'll be buying is your own *GRAVES*!"
Confetti exploded from seemingly nowhere—alleyways, rooftops, even a cracked barrel nearby—showering the air in a dazzling storm of red, blue, and yellow scraps that fluttered down like festive snow. Lucy yelped in delight, catching a handful midair and stuffing them into her pockets like they were gold coins, her hat tilting as she spun in excitement. Zoro instinctively reached for his swords, his eyes narrowing into slits, his body tensing like a coiled spring. From the center of the rainbow chaos emerged a clown—a walking caricature straight out of a nightmare. Blue hair tied in twin tails that bobbed like demented pom-poms, a face painted in garish white with exaggerated red lips and black eyeliner that screamed "birthday party gone horribly wrong," and—most importantly—his nose. Bright, round, shining like a polished cherry in the dead of winter, it dominated his face like a lighthouse beacon demanding every ounce of attention.
"BEHOLD! The glorious Captain Buggy!" the man roared, arms spread wide atop a makeshift platform of overturned crates, as if expecting thunderous applause from an adoring crowd. His cape—more like a tablecloth pilfered from a greasy diner—fluttered dramatically in the breeze, and his crew, a ragtag bunch in striped outfits and mismatched face paint, emerged from the shadows, clapping awkwardly as if afraid to stop, their eyes darting nervously.
Lucy gasped dramatically, her eyes widening to saucer size as she pointed at Buggy's face, nearly knocking her hat off in her excitement. "Whoa, Zoro, his nose! Do you think he can pick up radio signals with that thing? Or maybe it's a secret weapon—like, boop it, and fireworks shoot out! Sunny, can I test it? Pleeeease?"
I couldn't resist the opening—the absurdity was too perfect, like a gift wrapped in glitter. "Nah, looks more like one of those emergency buttons you see in Marine bases. Press it, and he calls for a clown car backup. Or maybe it's a Devil Fruit—Nose-Nose no Mi, grants the power to embarrass yourself eternally across all seas and make terrible life choices."
*{Ego}: Oh, brilliant. Mocking his nose? You're playing with fire, master, and I love it. Keep going—this clown's ego is more fragile than a glass bottle in a storm.*
*[System]: Fufufu~! Target "Buggy the Clown" emotional stability dropping 20%! Ara~ Ara~ Nose mockery identified as critical weak point—Master's hitting all the right buttons! Recommend doubling down for maximum chaos. Also, that nose is *definitely* a liability.♥*
Buggy froze mid-pose, his triumphant expression cracking like cheap makeup under stage lights. His eye twitched violently, his entire body trembling like a soda bottle shaken to the point of explosion. A single piece of confetti landed perfectly on the tip of his nose, amplifying the absurdity to cosmic levels. "D-DID YOU JUST—? DID YOU JUST MOCK MY NOSE?!"
"Tomato beacon," I added helpfully, leaning casually against a broken lamp post as if discussing the weather, my blue Haki subtly pulsing to gauge his rising fury. "Or emergency flare for lost clowns. Honestly, it's hard to choose with such a radiant feature."
"GYAAAAAAAAH! NO ONE MOCKS THE NOSE!" Buggy screeched, his voice hitting a pitch that could shatter glass—or summon every stray dog in a ten-mile radius, which was ironic given Chouchou's presence nearby. Confetti blasted out from his sleeves like steam from an overboiled kettle, and his crew winced, covering their ears as if expecting the sound to physically assault them.
Zoro gave me a sidelong look, one eyebrow arched, his hand resting on his sword hilt. "You're doing this on purpose, aren't you? Poking the bear—or the clown, in this case. You know he's going to lose it completely."
"Obviously," I replied with a grin, my Haki picking up Buggy's aura—a chaotic swirl of indignation, bravado, and deep-seated insecurity that practically begged for more poking. "It's more fun this way. Besides, he's making it too easy. Look at him—he's one bad joke away from a meltdown."
Buggy snapped his fingers with a flourish, and his ragged group of pirates stumbled out from the alleyways, their cutlasses gleaming dully in the sun. They fanned out in a sloppy half-circle around us, trying to look intimidating but mostly resembling a group of hungover circus performers who'd forgotten their lines. One tripped over his own shoelace, face-planting into a pile of rubble with a muffled yelp, earning a glare from Buggy that promised a demotion to "cannon fodder" or worse.
"Straw hats! Blue-haired idiots! Greedy thieves!" Buggy snarled, stomping forward with all the grace of a toddler in oversized boots, his cape flapping like a flag of surrender. "You dare mock Captain Buggy?! I'll cut you into pieces and use you as confetti for my next grand performance!"
"Oh, he's serious," Lucy whispered, her body trembling—not with fear, but with barely contained excitement. She bounced on her toes, fists clenched, her straw hat tilting precariously as she grinned like a kid about to open a birthday present. "Sunny, can I punch his nose? Please? Just one time? I bet it'll make a funny *boink* sound, like a clown horn!"
I yawned dramatically, stretching my arms overhead as if the whole spectacle was a mild inconvenience, like a mosquito buzzing too close. "Be my guest, Lucy. Just don't expect it to pop like a balloon. Though… if it does, I owe you a meat platter. A big one."
Nami sidled closer to me, her hand brushing mine in a quick, reassuring touch that sent a warm spark through me, igniting a flutter in my chest. Her voice was low, intimate, a teasing edge cutting through her concern. "You two are going to get us killed with your teasing. But… I'll admit, it's kind of fun watching him unravel like a cheap sweater." Her fingers lingered just a second longer, her thumb grazing my knuckles, and the romance of the moment—quiet amid the chaos—made my chest tighten with affection.
*{Ego}: Pathetic. One touch, and you're a puddle of goo. Focus on the clown, master, not her sneaky little fingers trying to steal your attention.*
*[System]: Ara~ Ara~Heart rate spiking 12%! Nami's touch is working its magic—Master's practically glowing! Romantic escalation potential: 85%. Recommend leaning in for a cheeky kiss to fluster her further. ♥*
---
**Buggy's Performance: A Circus of Chaos**
Buggy's face twisted into a mask of rage, his nose seeming to glow even brighter under the strain, like a lighthouse warning ships of impending doom—or at least impending embarrassment. With a dramatic flourish, his body suddenly split apart—arms detaching from his torso with a cartoonish *pop*, legs floating off the ground like they had their own agenda. His hands darted through the air like errant knives, fingers curled into claws, while his feet kicked wildly from a distance. It was a grotesque display, like a puppet show where the puppeteer had lost all control and possibly their sanity.
Lucy squealed in delight, clapping her hands like a kid at a festival, her hat flopping wildly. "Whaaaat?! He's a puzzle piece pirate! That's so cool! Can you teach me how to do that, Buggy? I wanna detach my stomach when I'm full so I can keep eating meat forever!"
Zoro's expression tightened, his hand instinctively going to his swords. "This guy's Devil Fruit… it's tricky." He drew one blade with a metallic *shing*, slashing at a flying hand that zipped toward him. The blade passed clean through, but the hand simply reassembled behind him with a mocking *snap*, flipping him off for good measure. Zoro growled, his patience fraying like an old rope. "This is beyond annoying."
"GYAAAHAHA! You see now?!" Buggy cackled, his torso hovering midair while his legs danced a ridiculous jig below, like a disjointed marionette trying to audition for a talent show. "The Bara Bara no Mi makes me invincible! I cannot be cut! I cannot be stopped! I'll scatter you all like leaves in a hurricane!"
"That's… inconvenient," Zoro muttered, ducking under a flying foot that nearly clipped his ear. He spun, slashing again, but the limb just detached and reformed behind him, taunting him with a wiggle. "How do you fight something that won't stay in one piece?"
Lucy, undeterred, had caught one of Buggy's disembodied arms midair and was spinning around in circles with it like it was a dance partner at a carnival. "Wheeee! Look! Free carnival ride! Spinny-spinny arm! Hey, Buggy, can I keep this? It's like a boomerang!" She twirled faster, the arm flailing helplessly in her grip, fingers wiggling like a distressed starfish.
"LET GO OF MY HAND, YOU FREAK!" Buggy shrieked, his voice cracking like a pre-teen's during an awkward growth spurt. His face turned purple, veins bulging as he tried to yank the arm back, but Lucy's rubbery strength made it impossible. The arm flopped like a fish out of water, and his crew stared, dumbfounded, as their captain was reduced to a tantrum-throwing toddler.
I leaned against the broken lamp post, arms crossed, studying him with narrowed eyes. My Observation Haki traced the fragments of his body, feeling the strange emptiness where his core connected—the way his aura fragmented but never truly broke. It was gaudy, chaotic, like confetti soaked in cheap rum and desperation, with a core of insecurity that made him more dangerous than he looked. But sloppy. So sloppy. The openings were practically glowing.
*{Ego}: This clown's a walking embarrassment. His power's a parlor trick at best—scatter him like the trash he is, master.*
*[System]: Fufufu~! Target "Buggy the Clown" has high nuisance factor, low dignity score, and negative charisma points! Nose analysis: 100% ridiculous, 80% likely to cause psychological meltdown if mocked further. Master's teasing is *chef's kiss*! Recommend escalating verbal assault to push him over the edge. Also, Lucy's arm-spinning is adorable—data logged for crew morale. ♥*
I smirked, keeping my tone light despite the chaos unfolding. "Relax, you two. I'll let Zoro and Lucy have some fun first. This guy isn't worth me breaking a sweat. Besides, dodging clown parts builds character—think of it as agility training for the Grand Line."
Nami, standing close enough that her arm pressed against mine, shot me a worried glance. Her hair was slightly disheveled from the breeze, a few strands sticking to her cheek, and her eyes were sharp with concern. "Sunny, are you sure? His power's weird. If he gets a lucky hit…" Her hand slipped into mine briefly, a quick squeeze that turned romantic in its intimacy, her fingers warm against my palm. My heart skipped, and I squeezed back, letting my thumb brush her knuckles in a way that made her breath hitch.
"I'm sure," I whispered, leaning down to plant a soft kiss on her forehead, just above her brow. Her skin was warm, the faint scent of citrus lingering like a promise. "But if things get too silly, I'll step in. Promise. Can't let my favorite navigator get confetti in her hair—or worse, glitter. That stuff's impossible to wash out."
Her cheeks flushed a deeper pink, and she swatted my arm lightly, but her smile was undeniable, her eyes locking with mine in a way that made the wrecked street fade away. "Smooth talker. Save the heroics for after we get that map, okay? I don't want to be picking glitter out of my clothes for weeks—or charging you for the dry cleaning."
*{Ego}: Hopeless. One kiss, and you're ready to hand over the ship. Focus on the clown, master, not her sneaky little charms.*
*[System]: Ara~ Ara~ ! Master's flirting game is *on point*! Heart rate spiking 15%! Nami's blush level: critical! Romantic escalation potential: 90%. Recommend stealing another kiss to fluster her further—imagine the data! ♥*
Lucy, still swinging Buggy's arm like a lasso, yelled over her shoulder. "This is the best game ever! Hey, Buggy, can I keep this arm? It's like a toy! Or maybe I'll trade it for meat! Deal?"
Buggy's screams reached new heights, his crew exchanging baffled looks as they tried (and failed) to coordinate an attack. One pirate tripped over a loose cobblestone, dropping his cutlass with a clatter, while another got tangled in a net of his own confetti, flailing like a fish caught in a trap.
---
Nami's Gamble: A Thief's Play**
While the chaos unfolded—Zoro parrying floating limbs with growing frustration, Lucy treating the fight like a playground game—Nami stepped forward, her expression shifting from concern to a calculated gleam that I knew meant trouble for someone (probably Buggy). She bowed low, her voice dripping with false sweetness, like honey laced with just a hint of venom. "Captain Buggy~! Surely we can come to an arrangement, no? This doesn't have to end in violence. I'm a reasonable woman with… reasonable desires."
Buggy paused mid-rant, his floating torso tilting as he eyed her suspiciously, his nose twitching like it was trying to pick up her intentions. His crew halted their clumsy advances, weapons half-raised, waiting for his cue. "…Go on, thief. You've got my attention—for about ten seconds before I turn you into confetti for my next show."
Nami straightened, flashing a dazzling smile that could charm beri from a miser's vault—or a map from a clown's treasure stash. Her hair caught the light, framing her face like a halo, and her voice was smooth as silk, each word calculated to disarm. "I'm not with these fools. I'm a navigator, a mapmaker *extraordinaire*. I just want treasure—lots of it. I can help you. I can draw maps that lead straight to hidden fortunes, track currents that avoid Marine patrols, even plot routes to islands the World Government doesn't know exist. Let me work for you, and you'll be richer than you can imagine. These idiots?" She waved a dismissive hand at us, her eyes flicking to me for a split second, a silent *trust me*. "They're nothing but dead weight. Cut me in, and I'll make you a legend, Captain Buggy."
Lucy's jaw dropped, her spinning coming to a halt as she dropped Buggy's arm with a *thud* that echoed in the silence. "EH?! Nami, traitor?! But we just became friends! You can't switch sides like that—it's against the pirate code or… or something!" Her voice was a mix of betrayal and confusion, her hat tilting as she pouted dramatically, her arms flailing for emphasis.
"Quiet!" Nami hissed, flashing me the quickest glance—a flicker of her eyes that spoke volumes. *Trust me. Play along.*
I understood instantly. She was buying time, getting close to Buggy's prized possession: the Grand Line map he'd been bragging about in tavern rumors. Classic Nami—clever, opportunistic, and always three steps ahead of everyone else, including the clown. I nodded subtly, suppressing a grin as I leaned back against the lamp post, feigning nonchalance, my blue Haki still humming to keep tabs on Buggy's erratic aura.
*{Ego}: Clever girl. She's playing him like a cheap fiddle. But don't get too cozy, master—her loyalty's to treasure first, you second. Keep your eyes open.*
*[System]: Fufufu~! Nami's deception score: 9.5/10! Strategic manipulation at peak performance—Master's trust in her is *so* adorable! Romantic subtext remains strong: 100%. Ara~ Ara~Low probability of actual betrayal, but recommend keeping an eye on her sneaky hands—those fingers are dangerous! ♥*
Buggy stroked his chin with one of his floating hands, his smirk returning as he sized Nami up, his nose twitching suspiciously. "A navigator, huh? Maybe you're not as useless as the rest. Fine—prove your worth. Betray them, and I'll consider letting you join my flashy crew!"
Chouchou, the little scarred dog who'd become our unofficial mascot, suddenly barked from the ruins of his pet shop across the street. His fur bristled, tiny frame shaking with fury as he glared at Buggy with eyes that could cut steel. His growls were sharp, protective—a reminder that this wasn't just a game; real lives, real loyalties were at stake. The sound cut through the air like a blade, and Buggy's eyes flicked toward the dog, his smile twisting into something cruel and mocking, his painted lips curling.
"What's this? A mangy mutt thinks he can defy me? How quaint. Maybe I'll use him as a warm-up act for my next performance!"
My blood chilled, a cold wave washing over me like a winter tide. The playful banter, the teasing, the flirting—it all evaporated in an instant. My hand twitched, Haki simmering just beneath the surface, ready to erupt.
---
**Sunny's Breaking Point: A Line Crossed**
Buggy raised his detached hand, fingers poised like blades, hovering menacingly over Chouchou. The dog didn't back down, his barks growing fiercer, his scarred eyes locked on the threat with unyielding courage, his tiny body trembling with defiance. "You'll make a fine example, little dog. This is what happens when you oppose Captain Bug—"
The street shook as my void blue Haki pulsed outward—not a full Conqueror's blast, just enough to make the air heavy, suffocating, like gravity had doubled in an instant. Buggy's hand froze midair, trembling as if caught in an invisible vice. His crew staggered, knees buckling under the pressure, some dropping their weapons with panicked yelps. The cobblestones cracked faintly under my feet, a subtle warning of the power I was holding back, my eyes narrowing to slits.
"Try it," I said softly, my voice flat and cold, devoid of the earlier humor, cutting through the air like a blade. I stepped forward, my presence filling the street like a storm cloud rolling in from the horizon, dark and unyielding. Lucy and Zoro glanced at me, their expressions shifting to seriousness—Lucy's excitement tempered, Zoro's hand tightening on his sword hilt. Nami's breath hitched, relief flashing across her face as she realized the play was over, her hand reaching for mine instinctively.
Buggy laughed nervously, trying to brush it off with his usual bluster, his voice trembling like a leaf in a gale. "G-Gyahaha, relax! It was just a joke! A little clown humor! No harm meant to the fleabag!" His painted eyes darted nervously, sweat beading under his makeup.
*{Ego}: Finally, you show some spine. Enough of this farce—end this clown now, master, before he even thinks about touching that dog. Make him regret existing.*
*[System]: Ara~ Ara~ ! Threat to ally (Chouchou) detected! Master's protective instincts are *sizzling*—150% activation! Emotional response consistent with prior dog loyalty incident. Data predicts: Sunny + Dog Loyalty Story = crying fit round two imminent! Recommend Nami hug to stabilize Master's heart rate—oh, the drama! ♥*
I ignored the voices, my gaze locked on Buggy like a predator sizing up prey. My smile returned, but it was sharp as a blade, devoid of warmth, a promise of consequences. "You've had your fun, clown. But hurt that dog, and you'll find out what a real nightmare looks like. No confetti, no laughs—just you, broken beyond repair, wishing you'd stayed in whatever circus you crawled out of."
Buggy snarled, snapping back into his theatrics to hide his fear, his nose glowing with manic defiance. "Fine then! If you want to fight me, I'll give you the honor of dying to my greatest weapon! BARA BARA CANNONBALL!"
A massive cannon rolled into view from a side street, a grotesque contraption covered in circus paint—stripes of red and white, with grinning clown faces etched on the barrel that seemed to cackle at their own impending doom. Buggy cackled maniacally, aiming it straight at us with a floating hand pulling the fuse, his eyes wild with desperation.
Lucy jumped up and down, undeterred, her eyes sparkling with excitement like a kid about to open a giant present. "Finally! A boss fight! This is gonna be epic! Like punching a giant pinata filled with meat!"
Zoro drew his swords fully now, his face grim but focused, his muscles tensing like coiled springs. "This'll get messy. That thing looks like it packs a punch—hope it's not as hard to cut as he is."
I cracked my knuckles, stepping forward at last, My come down blue Haki simmering just beneath the surface, ready to end this farce. "Alright. Clown show's over."
---
**The Cannonball Confrontation: Explosive Mayhem**
The cannon roared to life, belching smoke and flame as a massive cannonball barreled down the street, its surface painted with garish clown faces that seemed to cackle as it rolled. Confetti exploded with every bounce, turning the projectile into a rolling spectacle of color and noise, like a parade float designed by a madman with a glitter obsession. Buggy's laughter rang through the empty town, shrill and unhinged, echoing like a madman's symphony. Lucy squealed with glee, her eyes lighting up as she tried to jump atop the rolling death ball like it was a playground toy, her arms stretching rubbery to grab it.
"NO, LUCY!" I barked, stepping forward, my blue Haki shimmering faintly around me, a calm pressure that made the air itself seem to press against Buggy and his weapon. The street vibrated faintly, pebbles rattling on the ground, the air growing heavy with my intent.
*{Ego}: Finally. The little pest is doing something useful. End this farce in style, master—make it hurt. Show this clown what real power looks like.*
*[System]: Fufufu~! Master's Haki display is *chef's kiss*! Recommend observation and mental note-taking for blackmail purposes—imagine the stories we could tell!
I extended a hand, fingers brushing the air particle as if conducting an orchestra, my blue Haki weaving an invisible net. The cannonball slowed abruptly, wobbling midair as though trapped in molasses, its painted faces frozen in mid-cackle. The confetti hung suspended for a moment before drifting down lazily, like a snow globe turned upside down. Buggy blinked, his mouth opening and closing like a stranded fish, his painted face paling beneath the makeup, his nose practically pulsing with panic.
"You… what…? How are you doing that?!" he sputtered, spinning in place as his limbs floated apart again in a panic, flailing like a marionette with cut strings.
"Just… holding it for a second," I said, my voice casual, like I was pausing a conversation to sip tea. "You really should label your toys better—'Danger: Explodes on Impact' or something. Basic safety protocol, clown."
Lucy bounced off the now-stationary cannonball and landed in a crouch, her fists pumping the air, her hat nearly falling off in her excitement. "Sunny, I'm ready! Let me punch him NOW! Pretty please? His nose is begging for a Gomu Gomu no Boink!"
"Go ahead," I murmured, still leaning into my calm Haki field to keep the ball immobilized, my fingers twitching slightly to maintain the pressure. "Just don't break anything you like. We might need that cannon for… I don't know, target practice later. Or a really weird barbecue."
Zoro rolled his eyes, sheathing one sword but keeping the others ready, his stance relaxed but alert, his green hair glinting in the sunlight. "Clown antics… are beneath me. But if he aims that thing at us again, I'll slice it to ribbons. And maybe his nose for good measure."
I let a small smirk tug at my lips, meeting Nami's eyes briefly. She gave a subtle nod, her fingers tightening on her staff as she prepared to move, her aura sharp and focused. "Relax. You'll get to play later. For now, let's see how Lucy handles her new 'puzzle piece' friend."
---
**Nami's Strategic Chaos: The Navigator's Edge**
Nami crouched by a ruined cart nearby, her hands on her knees as she whispered furiously to me, her map still clutched in one hand. Her hair was slightly mussed from the breeze, a few strands sticking to her cheek, and her eyes were sharp with urgency, but there was a glint of mischief there too. "Sunny, the market stalls—some of the goods might be rigged with his traps. I saw wires glinting under the rubble—probably explosives or those floating knives. And—Lucy, stay behind me! No, don't run toward the cannon! That's not how we do strategy!"
Lucy waved her hands dramatically, already charging forward, her arms stretching as she aimed for Buggy, her voice echoing with glee. "But it's so shiny! It wants to be punched! Gomu Gomu no… Hug? No, wait—PUNCH!"
Nami groaned, pinching the bridge of her nose with a look of pure exasperation, her map crinkling slightly in her grip. "Why do I even bother? This crew is going to be the death of me. I should've stayed in Cocoyasi Village with my oranges and never signed up for this madness."
*{Ego}: She's adorable when she gets flustered. Perfect target for teasing—lean into it, master. Make her blush harder, it'll throw her off her game.*
*[System]: Ara~ Ara~! Her flustered face is too cute—data logged for future teasing! Recommend light flirting to push her over the edge—imagine the blush! ♥*
I reached over and tapped her shoulder lightly, pulling her closer under the guise of protection, my hand lingering on her arm. My fingers brushed her skin, sending a shiver through both of us, the touch electric. "Hey, calm down. We've got this covered. Lucy's chaos is her superpower—let her use it. And you? You're the brains keeping us alive, even when you're plotting my financial ruin."
Her eyes flicked up at me, softening momentarily amid the frustration, her blush deepening to a rosy hue. The faint brush of my fingers against her arm was small, intimate, and far too effective at making her lips part in a silent gasp. "Sunny," she muttered, trying to maintain composure as she leaned into my touch just a fraction, her voice barely above a whisper. "Don't… make me swoon right now. We have a clown to deal with. And traps. And an idiot captain who thinks cannons are toys."
I chuckled, my voice low and teasing as I leaned closer, my lips brushing her ear, the warmth of her skin making my pulse race. "Noted. But after? Swooning's definitely on the menu. Maybe with some candlelight, a bottle of wine, and that map you love so much."
She swatted my chest, but her smile betrayed her, her eyes sparkling with mischief and affection. "You're impossible. Focus, or I'll charge you double interest on every flirt—and I'll make you carry my bags for a month."
---
**Chouchou's Inspiration: A Dog's Heart**
Chouchou barked furiously from his post by the pet shop, circling Buggy's floating parts like a tiny, determined whirlwind, his scarred fur bristling with defiance. His scars gleamed in the sunlight, a testament to battles fought and won—against thieves, storms, and now a deranged clown. I watched him with a soft smile, my Haki picking up his unyielding aura—pure loyalty, no fear, just a dog keeping a promise to a master long gone. Bravery like that… it wasn't about strength or Haki. It was heart, unwavering and true, a beacon in the chaos.
Buggy tried to stomp him with a detached foot, but Chouchou leapt aside, dodging with uncanny speed that made even my Observation Haki pause in admiration. His barks were sharp, defiant, a challenge to the clown who dared threaten his domain, his tiny body a testament to unshakable resolve.
"Sunny, look! He's brave!" Lucy shouted, pointing mid-spin as she dodged another of Buggy's flying hands, her hat nearly flying off in her enthusiasm. "He's like a tiny Pirate King! All hail King Chouchou!"
"I see," I murmured, my voice soft as I knelt briefly to meet the dog's scarred, steady gaze, my hand hovering over his head in respect. "Bravery doesn't need powers, Chouchou. Just heart. You're teaching us all a lesson in loyalty."
*{Ego}: Emotional weakness detected. Pathetic… but cute. Don't go soft now, master—you're supposed to be terrifying, not sappy.*
*[System]: Eeee~! Heartstrings tugged at maximum: 100%! Master's emotional response to Chouchou is *melting* my circuits! ♥*
Nami's hand brushed mine again as she whispered, her voice barely audible over Lucy's shouting, her fingers warm and grounding. "You care too much about that dog. It's sweet… makes me like you even more." Her touch lingered, her eyes locking with mine, and the quiet romance in her words hit harder than any cannonball.
"I just… notice the details," I said, smiling faintly as I pulled her closer, my arm wrapping around her waist, the warmth of her body anchoring me. "Even in chaos, loyalty shines. Like yours, Nami."
Her breath hitched, and for a moment, her sharp navigator facade softened, her eyes glistening with something deeper. "Careful, Sunny. Keep talking like that, and I might kiss you again—right here, in front of the clown and everything."
"Promise?" I teased, my voice low, and her blush deepened, her lips parting in a silent laugh that made my heart skip.
---
**Buggy's Final Desperation: The Clown's Last Laugh?**
Buggy, growing frantic as his attacks faltered, tried a new tactic: blasting his own floating limbs like rockets toward us. Confetti and body parts flew in all directions, creating a whirlwind of absurdity that made the street look like a carnival gone rogue. Lucy screamed with delight, chasing the limbs like a kid at a prize booth, her arms stretching to grab them midair. Zoro pinched the bridge of his nose, muttering about "idiots and their games," his swords glinting as he prepared for the next move.
I shook my head, letting a controlled pulse of blue Haki flow through the air, forcing Buggy to pause mid-launch. The floating hands froze, trembling, and the confetti hung in the air like a paused fireworks show, glittering in the sunlight. "You're running out of ideas, clown," I said softly, my voice calm but laced with an edge that made his crew flinch. "Time to wrap this up."
Buggy's face went pale, sweat beading under his makeup, his nose practically glowing with panic like a distress signal. "I-I… can't… move! What sorcery is this?!"
"Good," I said, my voice almost lazy, but the threat was clear, my Haki pressing down like an invisible weight. "Stay there until you've reconsidered every life choice that led you to this point. Starting with the nose paint, that ridiculous cape, and the whole 'clown pirate' aesthetic."
*{Ego}: That is how a master does it. Subtle, humiliating dominance. Perfect. Now finish him off—make him beg.*
*[System]: Ara~ Ara~ ! Target incapacitated without direct harm! Emotional stability at 5%! Humiliation score: 99/100! Master's Haki is *swoon-worthy*! Data logged for future analysis—Buggy's meltdown is peak entertainment! Recommend keeping him conscious for more teasing. ♥*
---
**Crew Commentary: Bonds in Banter**
Lucy bounced up and down, eyes sparkling with unbridled joy as she dodged another stray hand, her hat flopping wildly. "I WANNA RECRUIT HIM! Can we keep him? Pretty please? He's like… a weird dog, but bigger, and his nose is hilarious! We could use him for parties! Imagine the tricks—flying arms, confetti cannons!"
Zoro groaned, sheathing his swords with a *clink*, his patience visibly fraying like an old sail. "Absolutely not. You're insane if you think I'd sail with a clown. I'd rather fight Sea Kings blindfolded with one hand tied behind my back."
Nami sighed, adjusting her map as she leaned against me, her shoulder pressing into mine, the warmth of her body sending a spark through me. "Focus, everyone. We have a real mission. Treasure, charts… and apparently clown nose genocide is not part of it. Though… I wouldn't mind charging him for emotional damages—and maybe a new pair of boots." Her voice was teasing, and her hand brushed mine again, her fingers lingering in a way that made my pulse race.
I chuckled softly, wrapping an arm around her waist as I scratched Chouchou behind the ears, the dog leaning into the touch with a faint wag of his tail. "One step at a time. Let the clown stew in his own mess. He's not going anywhere."
The sun began to dip lower, painting the broken streets in soft gold hues, the wreckage glowing like a painting of chaos and resilience. Chouchou trotted over, sitting at my feet and looking up as if seeking approval, his scarred eyes steady and proud. I crouched down, giving him another scratch, loyalty rewarded with simple affection that felt like a promise.
Lucy pouted dramatically, crossing her arms and flopping onto the ground. "Sunny, I wanted to punch him one more time! Just for fun! His nose deserves a good *boink*!"
"Later," I said, smiling as I stood, pulling Nami closer, her warmth grounding me. "Let's just enjoy the moment for now."
*{Ego}: Lazy, smug, perfect. Keep stroking that dog—and maybe Nami while you're at it. But don't get too soft, master.*
*[System]: Eeee~! Master's happiness level soaring: 85%! Crew morale at peak—Nami's proximity is *chef's kiss*! Recommend maintaining close contact with her and Lucy for maximum heart-melting moments. Also, Chouchou's tail wag? Adorable overload—data saved!
---
*Sunny POV*
The mayor of Orange Town had outdone himself in gratitude. After Buggy's defeat—or near defeat, thanks to my subtle but terrifying Haki display—he insisted we take rooms for the night at the town's modest inn, a creaky building with faded paint and flower boxes that miraculously survived the cannon fire, their petals swaying defiantly in the breeze. "Guests of honor," he said, beaming with a mustache that twitched like it had its own personality, possibly plotting world domination. "Rooms are modest, but clean! The beds? Soft as clouds, I swear on my honor!"
Lucy immediately started inspecting each bed like a hotel critic on a mission, bouncing on them with the enthusiasm of a child on a sugar rush. "THIS ONE IS TOO SOFT! It'll swallow me whole like a Sea King! AND THIS ONE—OH MY GOD, THIS ONE HAS SPRINGS! SPRINGS ARE TORTURE! They poke like angry porcupines!" She flopped onto one mattress, sending a cloud of dust into the air, then rolled off with a dramatic wail, her hat flying off and landing on Chouchou's head, who barked in confusion.
Zoro grunted and flopped onto the floor with his swords as a makeshift pillow, crossing his arms and closing his eyes. "Better than those beds. At least the floor doesn't complain—or poke me in the back." Chouchou, the little loyal dog, curled up awkwardly in the corner, his ears twitching at every bounce and complaint, his scarred eyes watching us with wary amusement, as if wondering why he'd aligned himself with such a chaotic crew.
And then there was me. Coincidentally—or perhaps fate had a twisted sense of humor and a penchant for romance—I was assigned the same room as Nami. "Shortage of rooms," the mayor explained with a shrug and a knowing wink that made Nami blush and me grin. The room was small—a single bed with threadbare sheets, a rickety table holding a flickering oil lamp that cast dancing shadows, and a window overlooking the wrecked street below. Moonlight filtered in, painting the wooden floor in soft silver hues, turning the room into a quiet haven amid the chaos.
As soon as the door closed with a soft *click*, Nami grabbed my shoulders and, with the precision of a seasoned navigator charting a tricky current, pushed me onto the bed. I landed with a *thump*, the mattress creaking in protest, and I couldn't help the grin spreading across my face, my heart racing with anticipation.
"Hey!" I protested, though the amusement in my voice betrayed any real annoyance, my hands already reaching for her. "Warn a guy before you—"
"Shut up," she whispered, straddling me and hugging me tightly, her body warm against mine. Her lips found mine without warning, the kiss slow and familiar, full of the intimacy built over eight years of shared adventures—living through storms, laughing at mishaps, fighting side by side, and loving in the quiet moments. Our tongues met briefly, a sweet and teasing dance that reminded me of every stolen glance, every whispered promise under starlit skies. Her hands trailed over my shoulders and chest, fingers tracing patterns that sent shivers down my spine, her touch warm and grounding, like an anchor in a storm.
I wrapped my arms around her waist, pulling her closer, feeling her heartbeat sync with mine, a rhythm as familiar as the sea itself. The warmth of her body, the softness of her curves—it was home, a safe harbor in the midst of all the madness. Her breath was hot against my lips, and the faint scent of citrus clung to her hair, mingling with the salty tang of the sea, a combination that was uniquely Nami.
*{Ego}: Oh, here we go again. You're hopeless, master. One kiss, and you're ready to sign over the ship and your dignity. Focus on the mission, not her lips—she's got you wrapped around her finger.*
Just then, a knock rattled the door like thunder, shattering the moment. Lucy's voice called out, high-pitched and dramatic, "SUNNY! I NEED TO CHECK IF YOU'RE STILL BREATHING! And maybe borrow a pillow! These springs are evil—they're plotting against my spine!"
Zoro's muffled yawn followed from the hallway, adding insult to interruption. "Ignore her. But if you're loud, I'll slice the door down. And maybe you two for good measure—save me the headache."
Nami groaned but didn't break contact, her lips curving into a smile against mine, her breath warm against my cheek. "Ignore them," she murmured, nuzzling my neck, her fingers tangling in my hair. "They'll survive without us for one night. Let's make the most of this."
"I'm not complaining," I replied, my hands roaming her back, fingers tracing the curve of her ass as I pulled her closer. The night passed in quiet chaos—whispered laughter, tender touches, and brief interruptions from Lucy's knocks and Zoro's grumbles—but eventually, sleep claimed us, tangled in each other under the moonlight, the world outside fading away.
---
*Morning — Nami POV*
The first rays of sunlight hit me squarely in the face, piercing through the thin curtains like accusatory fingers pointing out my oversleeping. I groaned, my legs wobbling as I tried to get out of bed, remnants of last night's closeness making my muscles ache in a pleasant, distracting way that brought a flush to my cheeks. Sunny was behind me, his hand steadying me with a gentle grip on my waist, his touch warm and reassuring, like an anchor keeping me from drifting into embarrassment.
"You're unstable this morning," he teased, his voice low and husky from sleep, a playful edge that made my heart skip. His blue Haki flickered faintly around us, as if highlighting my delicate state with a subtle, protective glow that felt like a hug.
"Maybe you should've let me fall over," I muttered, though a smile tugged at my lips as I leaned back into him, my head resting against his chest, the steady rhythm of his heartbeat grounding me. "But I'm glad you didn't. Hero complex and all."
He pressed a quick kiss to my temple, playful and tender, his lips lingering just long enough to send a flutter through me, warmth spreading from my chest to my fingertips. "You'd have landed on me anyway. We both know it. Besides, catching you is my favorite hobby—better than fighting clowns or dodging cannonballs."
From the hallway, Lucy peeked in through the cracked door, her hands clasped over her mouth, eyes wide as saucers, her straw hat tilted at a ridiculous angle. "I CAN'T BELIEVE THIS. Sunny and Nami are… are… cuddly! Zoro, come see! It's like a romance novel, but with more straw hats and less dignity!"
Zoro leaned against the doorframe, arms crossed, letting out a low chuckle that rumbled like distant thunder, his green hair catching the morning light. "You two are insufferable. Get a room—wait, you already have one. Just keep it down next time, or I'm sleeping on the deck with the seagulls."
I shot Sunny a glance, one part warning, one part affectionate, my cheeks still warm from his kiss. "Maybe we should hurry up, before they start making bets on what happens next. Lucy's probably already planning a 'romance tax' on our beri—or worse, trying to sell our story to a tabloid."
Sunny grinned, pulling me closer for one last hug, his arms strong and warm, his breath tickling my ear. "Not a chance. I like this chaos too much. It's what makes us *us*.
*Sunny POV — Preparing the Crew*
After a hasty breakfast—Lucy had devoured three plates of eggs, bacon, and toast, and was already eyeing the fourth like a hawk stalking prey, her straw hat bouncing with every enthusiastic bite, her cheeks puffed out like a squirrel—I took a moment to scan Buggy's remaining crew with my Observation Haki. Their weak auras flickered around the town edges, radiating fear and confusion as they scurried like rats from a sinking ship, their confidence shattered. I didn't need to fight them; just watching their terrified movements from afar was satisfying enough, their panic a testament to our crew's chaos. No soul collection this time—the situation didn't call for it, and frankly, they weren't worth the effort.
Lucy's antics made the atmosphere unpredictable—she was currently trying to "recruit" a stray cat that looked remarkably unimpressed, offering it a piece of bacon as a signing bonus while Chouchou barked disapprovingly from his corner, his tail flicking in judgment. Nami kept charting the waters on her map, her quill scratching furiously, her brows furrowed in concentration, her hair catching the sunlight like a fiery halo. Zoro simply existed as a formidable shadow, sharpening his swords with rhythmic strokes that sent a clear message to any lingering Buggy goons: *Don't even think about it.* Every so often, Nami would brush against me under the guise of showing me a route, her hip pressing against mine, sending warmth through me that had nothing to do with the morning sun, her touch a silent promise of more moments to come.
*{Ego}: You're letting her get too close again. Master, behave—focus on the threats, not her sneaky curves trying to distract you.*
*[System]: Data logged: proximity to Nami exceeds safe thresholds. Physiological response noted.
I leaned down, teasingly pressing my forehead against hers as she traced a line on the map, my breath warm against her cheek. "You know, if you keep leaning like that, I might just declare war on this map and claim you instead."
She smirked, biting her lip in that way that drove me crazy, her eyes sparkling with mischief and something softer, deeper. "Do it. I dare you. But only if you promise to navigate us out of here first—heroics before romance, Sunny."
---
**Humor and Crew Dynamics: Laughter in the Aftermath**
Zoro rolled his eyes at our flirting, sheathing his freshly sharpened sword with a *clink*, his patience visibly fraying like an old sail in a storm. "You two need to get a hobby that doesn't involve making the rest of us gag. Save it for the cabin—or better yet, the open sea where I can't hear you over the waves."
Lucy dramatically flopped onto the deck of our boat, waving her arms like a starfish in distress, her hat tumbling off into Chouchou's lap, who barked in protest. "I DEMAND TO BE INCLUDED! SOMEONE FEED ME, OR I WILL TAKE MY HAT AND LEAVE THE CREW! Starvation is no way for a Pirate Queen to go!" She clutched her stomach, rolling side to side for effect, her voice echoing across the dock.
I chuckled, tossing her a leftover piece of bread from breakfast, which she caught midair like a trained seal. "Careful, Lucy. You might choke on your theatrics. Or worse—swallow your hat by accident. Then we'd have to fish it out of your stomach, and I'm not diving in there."
Nami groaned, hitting Lucy lightly with her rolled-up chart, the paper crinkling under the impact. "Eat quietly for once! We're trying to plan here, not host a comedy show for the entire East Blue!"
Even with the comedy—the banter, the eye-rolls, the over-the-top complaints—there was a rhythm to our small crew. Chaotic, messy, but perfectly synchronized, like a storm that somehow worked in harmony. Every gesture, glance, and tease carried unspoken bonds, forged in fights like this one and moments like last night. Chouchou barked from his spot by the inn, tail wagging as if approving our antics, while the mayor waved from afar, his mustache twitching in amusement like it was laughing along.
---
**Preparing for Next Steps: Onward Bound**
By midday, the town had calmed enough for us to gather supplies—fresh fruits from grateful vendors who practically threw oranges at us in thanks, ropes and canvas for boat repairs, and a few extra charts that Nami scrutinized like they were the One Piece itself, her eyes gleaming with excitement. Buggy was alive but firmly incapacitated, tied up in the town square under the mayor's watch, his nose still glowing faintly as he muttered curses under his breath, his crew scattered like rats fleeing a sinking ship.
I used my Observation Haki to silently gather intelligence on any lingering threats—no ambushes, no hidden explosives, just the faint echoes of terrified pirates fleeing into the hills, their auras dim and panicked. {Ego} muttered about missed opportunities for dominance, while [System] gleefully noted Buggy's pitiful state for "future reference."
*{Ego}: You let him live? Weak. You should've crushed his spirit entirely—made him beg for mercy in front of his own crew.*
"Alright," I said, looking at my crew as we loaded the boat, the sun climbing higher in the sky, painting the sea in shades of gold and blue. "Repairs, resupply, and plotting the next leg. The Grand Line isn't going to conquer itself."
Nami leaned closer, her head brushing mine as she pointed to a spot on the map, her hair tickling my cheek, her scent wrapping around me like a warm breeze. "You're going to be the death of me, you know that? All this flirting in the face of danger."
"I already am," I whispered, and she shivered, smiling as her hand found mine, her fingers intertwining with mine in a quiet promise of more adventures, more moments.
Lucy, utterly oblivious, yelled from the dock, her voice carrying over the waves. "WE STILL NEED TREASURE! AND MEAT! Lots of meat!"
Zoro pinched the bridge of his nose, his swords clinking as he shifted, his voice dripping with exasperation. "…I should've stayed home."
But I just laughed, embracing the chaos of our crew. Grand Line or not, I knew one thing: nothing could touch us when we were together.