Arrival at Logue Town

Sanji dove into the sea without hesitation, rescuing Luffy, who was barely conscious, weakened by both the battle and his vulnerability to water. Meanwhile, Ethel remained by Gin's side, observing as the man, after witnessing his captain's defeat, finally succumbed to exhaustion and lost consciousness.

Sanji managed to return to the deck of the Baratie, carrying a weary but safe Luffy. Zeff, wasting no time, ordered all the cooks to begin repairing the ship and to prepare a grand feast so that everyone could regain their strength.

Aware that their time at the Baratie was coming to an end, Ethel signaled Kaya and Saga to return to their ship. Though the immediate danger had passed, there was still much to do. Kaya, showing her medical expertise, began treating Gin, who exhibited clear signs of extreme exhaustion and poisoning.

Meanwhile, the Baratie crew and cooks focused on restoring the ship and preparing the feast, fully aware that the recent battles had left both physical and emotional scars.

The Marine ships soon arrived, taking control of the situation and imprisoning all the pirates, including the notorious Don Krieg. However, Gin managed to escape, hiding aboard Ethel's ship, seeking refuge with the group that had shown him compassion.

Later, in the main hall of the Baratie, everyone enjoyed a festive meal. Sanji had prepared an exquisite soup, its rich flavor seemingly revitalizing everyone present. Luffy, with his insatiable appetite, savored each spoonful, while Ethel watched with a smile as the blonde cook bid farewell, having decided to join the Straw Hat crew, finally leaving the Baratie behind.

"It was an emotional farewell," Ethel remarked as he returned to his ship with his companions.

"Kaya even shed a few tears," Saga added with a slight smile, recalling how the young doctor had been moved by Sanji's departure.

"In the end, they've recruited a great cook. They'll make a fantastic crew," Ethel said, reflecting aloud. "You must be happy for Usopp, right?"

Kaya, with a mix of sadness and hope in her eyes, nodded softly.

"Yes, I'm happy for him. I know he'll be fine with such an incredible crew by his side," Kaya replied, her voice trembling slightly as she thought of her childhood friend.

"What's next?" Saga asked, curious about their next destination.

"We're heading to Loguetown. It'll be our last stop before entering the Grand Line. We'll stock up on everything we need and set sail," Ethel, the group's leader, responded with determination.

"I see. And what about Gin?" Saga continued, raising the question that was also on Kaya's mind as she watched Ethel closely, waiting for his response.

"To be honest, I'd like him to join us. He has experience at sea, and he's strong and loyal. Now that Don Krieg has been captured by the Marines, he won't have many options left," Ethel explained, making his intentions clear.

"Are you sure? He's got a bounty as a pirate. If they see us with him, they might consider us part of his crew," Kaya said, voicing her concern.

"Well, it's not that big of a deal," Saga interjected, shrugging. "As long as we can disguise him so he's not recognized, there shouldn't be a problem."

"We'll see in time," Ethel concluded calmly. "For now, there's no need to worry. The first thing is to hear Gin's decision. After that, we'll figure out our next steps."

The three shared a look of silent agreement.

The journey to Loguetown took about a week. On the fourth day, Gin finally woke up, weakened but conscious. Without wasting time, Ethel presented him with an offer to join their crew. Gin, after considering his options, accepted. He knew this was his best chance to move forward, although the thought of returning to the Grand Line filled him with a certain dread.

With his decision made, the small crew, now four members strong, arrived in Loguetown and anchored in the harbor. Gin chose to stay on the ship, taking on the responsibility of guarding it. He understood that his presence in the city could attract trouble if anyone recognized him, and he preferred to avoid any unnecessary confrontations.

Meanwhile, Ethel, Saga, and Kaya prepared to explore the city and gather the supplies they needed for their upcoming grand voyage. Loguetown, known as the "City of Beginnings and Endings," was a place rich with history, and the bustling atmosphere of the port reminded them that they were one step closer to their ultimate destination: the Grand Line.

Ethel felt like a kid in a candy store as he walked through the streets of Loguetown, brimming with excitement over the history and significance of the place. After leaving Kaya at the city's library, where she planned to purchase several books before their departure, Ethel and Saga decided to seek some relief from the sweltering heat. Walking through the streets, they eventually came across the famous bar named after the Pirate King.

The place had a nostalgic air, as if the spirit of Gol D. Roger still lingered within its walls. They decided to go in for a drink, eager to cool off after their walk under the sun. As they crossed the threshold, they were greeted by an elderly man, hunched with age, who welcomed them with a warm smile.

"Welcome to the bar of the Eternal Pirate King," the man said as he took their orders. "It's rare to have customers these days, ever since Smoker came to town."

Ethel couldn't resist making a joke in response:

"I suppose it's not all good having a Marine captain in the city."

Before the old man could respond, a deep voice echoed from the back of the bar.

"Oh, so it's my fault business isn't doing well?" the figure said, approaching to sit at the bar next to Ethel and Saga.

Ethel looked up, his surprise evident as he recognized the man sitting beside them. It was Captain Smoker, the feared and respected Marine officer. Though Saga continued drinking his beer without paying much attention, Ethel couldn't hide his admiration.

"A cold beer for the city's protector," Ethel said with a smile. "I didn't expect to meet the famous Captain Smoker of the Marines in person."

Smoker, with his characteristic calm, lit one of his cigars and accepted the drink the old man offered him.