Luxury

"Ah man, I'm tired!" Rei groaned, fanning herself dramatically. "Do we really have to train this hard? There's not a single enemy in sight, and we've been sailing for a week!"

"Don't complain, Rei," Uta replied, shaking her head. "We have to stay sharp. You never know when an enemy might show up out of nowhere."

The two had grown closer after their recent battle, their bond deepening as they earned their reputation as an iconic duo. Though their personalities often clashed, they had become like sisters, each balancing the other out.

The trio was lounging on deck, enjoying the ocean breeze, when a newspaper fluttered down and landed in front of them.

"Oooh, what's this?" Rei said, grabbing it. Her eyes sparkled with excitement as she read aloud. "Gran Tesoro—a ship housing the largest entertainment city in the world. They're inviting visitors to relax and have fun!"

Rei lowered the paper and grinned. "You're thinking what I'm thinking, right, Uta?"

Uta raised an eyebrow. "I really hope not."

"She definitely is," Imai cut in, rising from her seat. "And honestly, I don't see why not. We've been fighting nonstop. A little relaxation could do us some good. How long will it take to get there?"

Rei's face lit up, and she pounced on Imai, hugging her tightly. "Thank you, Captain! You won't regret this. It'll only take three days to get there. That's nothing!"

Uta crossed her arms, still skeptical. "I can't believe you're actually agreeing to this, Imai."

"Come on, admit it—you want to go too," Imai said with a sly smile. "A place like that has hot springs. I know you're interested."

Uta paused, her gaze drifting over Imai's figure. Her scrutiny made Imai's cheeks flush, though she wasn't sure if it was because of her feelings for Uta or the faint glint of something else in Uta's eyes.

After a moment, Uta smiled. "Alright, let's go."

Their course was set, and they sailed toward the legendary Gran Tesoro. The ship was famed not only for its extravagance but also for its recognition as an independent state by the World Government. Declared a demilitarized zone, it was a haven where no fighting was permitted, even between sworn enemies. For the Apostles, whose bounties painted targets on their backs, it seemed like a rare reprieve.

Still, Imai couldn't help but feel a twinge of suspicion. How had Gran Tesoro amassed so much wealth and influence in such a short time? There had to be more going on beneath the surface.

Three days passed in the blink of an eye, and the excitement of the crew was palpable. When the ship finally came into view, even Imai's reserved expression betrayed a hint of awe. Gran Tesoro surpassed their expectations—a gleaming marvel of gold and opulence, with its central tower shaped like a massive roulette wheel.

As they docked, a manager greeted them warmly, handing them VIP passes.

"They know who we are," Uta murmured, scanning the pass.

"That's to be expected," Imai replied. "Now let's just make sure Rei doesn't run off."

"Hey, I'm standing right here!" Rei huffed, pouting.

They were led onboard, where they were greeted by a tall, striking woman with long red hair and sun-kissed skin. She wore a sleek black backless dress with a white stripe running down the side, accentuating her figure. Her purple-tinted sunglasses and crescent-shaped earrings completed the look, though her most notable features were her dazzling emerald eyes and a confident, almost predatory smile.

"My, my," the woman said, removing her sunglasses with a flourish. "If it isn't the Apostles themselves. Your reputations precede you."

"And you are?" Imai asked, her gaze sharp.

"I'm Baccarat, the VIP concierge," the woman said with a slight bow. "It's my pleasure to welcome you to Gran Tesoro. Of course, I've already been briefed on who you are. The World Government keeps a close eye on its most famous pirates."

Baccarat revealed a thick book, flipping it open to a page adorned with their bounty posters.

"Oh look, there I am!" Rei said, pointing enthusiastically.

"Hah, my poster looks way better than yours," Uta teased, nudging her.

Imai glanced at her own bounty poster and sighed. Nothing had changed.

Their conversation was interrupted by the rumbling of an approaching vehicle—a sleek, gold-trimmed car that gleamed in the sunlight. Baccarat gestured to it grandly.

"This is the Turtle Shuttle," she explained. "It's powered by turtle energy and operated by the Lucky Turtle Squad. It can accommodate all three of you comfortably."

Imai observed as the small turtles driving the vehicle saluted them. "Impressive," she remarked.

Baccarat ushered them inside and took the wheel, driving them through the sprawling ship. Gran Tesoro was massive—ten kilometers long, practically a city in itself. Baccarat narrated their journey, pointing out casinos, hotels, luxury shopping malls, and even hot springs.

It was like stepping into a dream, but Imai remained cautious. She noticed video transponder snails scattered across the streets, recording every move. Gran Tesoro's promise of a crime-free zone was clearly enforced by an intricate surveillance system.

"Are we heading to the casino first?" Imai asked, noting the spark of excitement in Rei and Uta's eyes.

"Of course," Baccarat replied with a smile. "But first, let's get the three of you properly outfitted."

When they emerged from the shopping mall, the trio turned heads. They wore matching white dresses that complemented their unique appearances. Imai's outfit came with an elegant parasol, making her look both regal and mysterious. Her suitcase of blades added an edge to her otherwise sophisticated demeanor.

Uta and Rei looked equally stunning. Uta's ensemble carried an effortlessly cool vibe, while Rei exuded cheerful charm, her radiant energy drawing attention wherever she went.

As they headed toward the casino, Imai couldn't help but smile. For now, at least, they could enjoy themselves. But beneath her composed exterior, she remained vigilant. Gran Tesoro promised luxury and peace, but Imai knew better than to let her guard down.