Hinokami Kagura

𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐩𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝟖: 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐖𝐡𝐢𝐭𝐞𝐛𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐝 𝐩𝐢𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐀𝐜𝐞 (𝐏𝐀𝐑𝐓 𝟐)

(Y/N)'s eyes slightly widened from the conclusion. They weren't a pirate and didn't really have any plans to be a pirate

"But I'm not a pirate!"

"But with that attitude you could be!"

"But I-"

(Y/N) cut themselves off, were they selfish for following what they think is right? Maybe, but what else are they supposed to do? Blindly follow orders without thinking?

Whitebeard's lips twitched upward, a sign that he found (Y/N)'s internal struggle intriguing. The room was filled with an unspoken understanding that this marine, despite their affiliation, had a spirit that resonated with the ideals of freedom and justice that the Whitebeard Pirates held dear.

"So what if it is selfish to protect the weak?" (Y/N) continued, their voice gaining conviction. "I became a marine to protect those who can't stand up for themselves. Is it selfish to do that?"

Whitebeard and some of the older crew members exchanged knowing glances. It was becoming increasingly evident that (Y/N) possessed the same fiery determination and unwavering sense of justice that had defined Yoriichi, making it increasingly likely that they were indeed related by blood. The room was charged with anticipation, as the pieces of the puzzle continued to fall into place.

"It is not selfish to protect people but going against orders to do so is what people would consider selfish"

(Y/N) was silent then Whitebeard opened his mouth again

"You may be a Vice-Admiral, but you haven't unlocked your full strength yet," Whitebeard declared. "It'd be a shame to let a high-potential sprout fall into the hands of the Marines..."

Some of the Whitebeard Pirates couldn't help but smile; they had a good idea of where this conversation was heading.

Whitebeard's next words stunned (Y/N). "What if I want you to join my crew instead?"

"....EH!?"

〈〈═════»❣❤❣«═════〉〉

In the first few days aboard the Whitebeard Pirates' ship, (Y/N) found themselves in the infirmary, recovering from their recent battles and adjusting to the unfamiliar environment. During this time, they made several escape attempts, each thwarted by the determined crew members who were resolute in their desire to welcome (Y/N) into their family.

After a brief stay in the infirmary, (Y/N) was moved to a vacant room. They initially preferred solitude and wanted to be left alone, but it seemed that the Whitebeard Pirates were persistent in their efforts to include (Y/N) in their activities, especially when it came to sharing meals.

Despite the initial resistance, the camaraderie and warmth of the crew gradually began to wear down (Y/N)'s defences. The Whitebeard Pirates were determined to show (Y/N) that they were more than just a crew of pirates; they were a family, and they wanted (Y/N) to become a part of it.

Despite the crew's warm gestures, (Y/N) couldn't shake the feeling of discomfort in the galley, where they were constantly under the watchful eyes of the pirates. The stares, though not unkind, still weighed on them.

On the third day, (Y/N) began to feel a bit more at ease and decided to explore the ship, venturing beyond their room. However, they soon noticed that they were never truly alone during these explorations. A division commander, often THATCH, IZO or MARCO, accompanied them, ensuring their safety and, perhaps, subtly keeping an eye on their activities.