Chapter 24: Lougetown

In a dimly lit office of a Marine base,a Captain received an urgent call from Vice Admiral Gion. As the captain listened intently, the seriousness of the conversation etched lines of concern on their face.

Vice Admiral Gion's voice crackled through the receiver, her tone grave. "Captain, we have reports of a new pirate crew emerging in the East Blue. Rumors suggest they are formidable opponents, having already taken down two high-ranking captains and powerful pirates."

The Captain's brows furrowed as they absorbed the information. "Understood, Vice Admiral. I'll mobilize immediately to apprehend them," they responded, with a clear voice.

"Good. Take your protege with you. This mission is of utmost importance," Vice Admiral Gion instructed before ending the call.

Turning to said protege, the Captain issued a command. "Prepare yourself, we have a mission. We're setting out to capture a notorious pirate crew that's been causing a stir in the East Blue."

The protege, a young and determined officer, nodded in understanding. "Yes, Captain. I'll gather our team and make the necessary preparations," she replied, her tone reflecting her readiness for the task ahead.

With their orders clear, Captain and protege swiftly made their way to the docks, where their ship awaited. As they boarded the vessel, the captain's mind buzzed with thoughts of the impending mission and the dangers that lay ahead.

"The last known location of the pirate crew was on the way to Lougetown," a officer informed his captain as they set sail. "We'll start our search there and follow any leads we uncover."

The protege nodded, her gaze fixed on the horizon ahead. "Understood, Captain. We won't let them slip through our fingers," she affirmed, her determination unwavering.

With their sights set on their quarry, the Captain and their protege embarked on the mission, prepared to confront whatever challenges awaited them in their pursuit of justice on the high seas.

As the crew of the now called "Vibro Pirates" disembarked in Lougetown, they were greeted by the bustling atmosphere of Gold Roger's hometown. "I've met him, you know?" Zoe's casual remark spiked Yamato's interest, prompting her to inquire further.

"Roger?" Yamato asked, her curiosity evident. "I didn't know about his importance as I accompanied him on his way to the dead," Zoe replied, her tone tinged with sadness as she recalled her encounter with the legendary pirate.

Sensing the need to shift the mood, Ryo interjected, suggesting that the girls go shopping while he explored the area. With a smile, he handed them a bag of berries, which they gratefully accepted. "We'll see you later, Ryo," Nami chirped, her excitement evident as she clutched the bag of money and took the others by the hands.

As the girls wandered off to explore the shops, Ryo made his way to a nearby bar. Entering the establishment, he was greeted by the lively chatter of patrons and the clinking of glasses. Taking a seat at the counter, he ordered a drink and leaned back, his mind wandering as he observed the eclectic mix of people around him.

Ryo leaned against the wooden bar, the smooth surface cool beneath his palms. He glanced around the dimly lit tavern, taking in the mix of patrons. Turning his attention to the bartender, he flashed a friendly smile.

"So, what's there to see around here?" Ryo asked, his tone casual.

The bartender chuckled, a hearty sound that filled the air. "Ah, you're new to Lougetown, huh? Well, you've come to the right place. This here's the birth and death place of the legendary Pirate King Gold Roger."

Ryo nodded, his interest piqued. "Gold Roger, huh? Tell me more."

As the bartender launched into his tale, Ryo's attention was drawn to the entrance of the bar. A woman entered, her presence commanding the attention of the room. Ryo frowned as he noticed the lecherous glances directed her way. He didn't appreciate the way they eyed her up like a piece of meat.

The woman sauntered over to the bar, taking a seat beside Ryo. She ordered a drink and lit a cigarette, a casual gesture that didn't sit well with him. Leaning closer, Ryo couldn't help but comment.

"You know, smoking isn't good for your health," he said, a playful glint in his eye. "I've got a friend who could tell you how many people die from it."

The woman raised an eyebrow, a smirk playing on her lips. "And why should you care?" she retorted, her tone teasing.

Ryo shrugged nonchalantly. "Just can't stand to see a beautiful lady like yourself damaging her health," he replied, his smile disarmingly charming.

The woman chuckled, clearly amused by this handsome mans comment. She struck up a conversation, and soon they were engrossed in lively banter. Ryo found himself oddly charmed by her wit and confidence.

"What brings such a lovely Lady like yourself here in this town?", he asked confidence, trying to find more about such a stunning lady. "Business", she replied in a short answer.

Eventually, their drinks were finished, and the woman hesitated before finally asking for his name. Ryo met her gaze, a warm smile on his lips.

"It's Ryo," he shared his name, his voice soft.

The woman hesitated for a moment. Ryo sensed a flicker of uncertainty in her eyes. He gave her a reassuring smile, understanding her hesitation. "You don't have to tell me if you are not comfortable in sharing your name. I think I'm gonna get going. But I'll remember you as the mysterious beauty." He said in a flirting tone and a cheeky grin.

With a gentlemanly nod, Ryo bid her farewell, pressing a gentle kiss to the back of her hand. As he walked away, a sly grin tugged at his lips. He couldn't help but notice the faint blush that colored her cheeks as he made his exit.

As Ryo strolled through the bustling streets of Lougetown, his gaze fell upon an open area bustling with activity. It was the market, he realized, the heart of the town's commerce. In the center stood a tall platform, catching the sunlight and drawing his attention.

As he admired the platform, a loud, angry voice shattered the air. "YOU!"

Ryo turned, his curiosity piqued, to see a sorry-looking figure pushing through the crowd. His eyes widened in disbelief as he recognized the man who had called out to him. It was Buggy the clown. Despite his one-armed appearance, Buggy's expression was filled with fury, his gaze fixed squarely on Ryo.

A smirk tugged at the corners of Ryo's lips as he watched Buggy approach. Did this man truly believe he posed a threat? It was almost laughable. Nevertheless, Ryo remained composed, waiting to see what the clown pirate had in store.