Let's grab some ice cream

Every single day, an increasing number of ships bearing the Baroque Works flag make their way to the bustling port of Nanohana. Being a port city, this place can handle a large number of ships, ensuring that the city remains lively for a long time.

The rumors circulating among the traders and locals of Arabasta were starting to reveal more details, but what caught my attention was how they spoke in awe of this man called Crocodile.

"Wait, so you said this man named Crocodile is the mysterious Mister 0?"

"Yeah, that's right. And to make matters worse, he's one of those Logia-type devil fruit users. So you can imagine how much trouble he can be," I explained. Nojiko, who was already shocked, was completely taken aback by this revelation.

I need to hold onto her hand tightly, making sure we don't lose each other in the bustling crowd that fills this vibrant market. After all the effort she put in yesterday, I decided to surprise her with a gift - a leisurely stroll through the city. So, I don't want to let her slip away so quickly.

"D-Do the others know?..." she stammered, her voice filled with uncertainty. Nojiko paused before continuing her question as if she had just realized something.

"You're saying that I had to do all that stuff yesterday because our enemy happens to be the Warlord of the Sea and also happens to have a Logia-type devil fruit power?"

I couldn't help but smile at how beautifully she was glowing. It was clear that she had grasped the answer, but there was still a hint of uncertainty in her expression.

"W-Wait, we don't have to face that guy, right?... Mister 9, the one I killed yesterday. If Crocodile catches wind of it, he'll definitely make sure we don't get away."

I was pleased with how Nojiko freely explored her thoughts and made connections between vague questions in her mind. However, her conclusion ended up causing her even more panic, so I had to step in and help her calm down.

"Let's grab some ice cream to beat this scorching weather. It's seriously getting to me."

"Huh?..." Before Nojiko fully processed my words, we found ourselves standing in front of the ice cream seller, who had a warm smile on his face.

In no time at all, I got exactly what I needed and handed one to Nojiko before we continued strolling through the market. But this time, we walked into a narrow alley that was surprisingly peaceful.

"This opponent we're up against is no joke. If things start going south, I won't think twice about making a quick getaway."

"Umm, I kinda get the feeling that you're about to do something pretty reckless... Is it all because of that girl?"

I knew exactly who Nojiko was talking about, and I quickly nodded.

'Well, for now, I'll let her believe that... but the truth is, there are actually three things I'm hoping to achieve by coming to this place.'

I haven't shared this with anyone except for Makino and Captain Hina. I didn't even mention it to Uta. Before I try to calm down that angry girl, I don't feel comfortable relying on her for this important matter.

As we made our way through the alleys, a sense of tranquility settled in. Surrounded by the buildings, I found myself appreciating the shade provided by the cloth and boards, shielding us from the harsh sunlight.

As I polished off the last bit of ice cream in my hand, I couldn't help but notice a group of people approaching us from the front. And to my surprise, it wasn't just a one-time thing. Three more individuals emerged from behind us as if they were seasoned pros at this.

"I really hope they're from Baroque Works, but it's strange how they don't seem to be cautious around us... But honestly, I don't care about the specifics. Nojiko, I'm counting on you."

"Umm, I'm confident with this."

After what happened with Mister 9, I thought it would take her longer to recover, but just look at her now! As soon as her ice cream hit the ground, she balled up her fists and got ready to throw down.

"You might not fully grasp the seriousness of the situation you're in right now... if you want to stay alive, it'd be best to hand over your money as soon as possible!"

One of them decided to go after Nojiko, but she quickly grabbed his hand and forcefully slammed him to the ground.

In that moment of surprise, I had the perfect opportunity to swiftly defeat them all. However, I made the conscious decision to stay quiet instead.

Nojiko wasted no time and dashed forward without hesitation. With the training she's had, she can easily take out a thug like them.

As soon as she managed to paralyze our enemy in front, the three guys behind us wasted no time in charging forward. They seemed pretty confident with their swords and sharp knives, thinking they were tough stuff. However, I quickly tripped one of them, and Nojiko swiftly paralyzed the rest.

"You know what to do next…I'll wait patiently, so take your time."

Standing in front of the alley, I noticed a significant contrast as a large crowd of people streamed by in a never-ending wave. It's pretty incredible to think that there are people living and building a bustling city right in the heart of the scorching Sahara desert, where water is scarce. It's definitely not what you would expect!

As I mentioned earlier, I'll wait patiently, but my curiosity gets the better of me, and I can't help but sneak a peek behind me. Nojiko, clutching a knife smeared with blood, took matters into her own hands and began relentlessly attacking the criminal who had attempted to rob us moments before. Initially, she hesitated, unsure of her target, but I could witness her resolve growing stronger with each passing moment.

"Look how cute she looks as she's going through their clothes, searching for valuable items." I couldn't help but smile, but in that instant, I felt someone's hand slip into my pocket.

Just as I was about to catch a glimpse of the person's face, they vanished into the bustling crowd, disappearing without a trace. Initially, I didn't care much because the amount of money she took wasn't significant. However, my interest was piqued when I noticed her distinctive orange hair.

"Hey, Nojiko, I need to go after someone. You head back first, alright?"