Tsuru's eyes locked with Adam's. "We are not here to threaten. Headquarters would like to offer you an invitation. A place among the Marines."
Adam raised an eyebrow. "An invitation, huh? Didn't think the World Government sent classy milfs to recruit brats like me."
Gion choked back a laugh. Tsuru's face didn't budge—though her eyes twitched faintly.
Adam (inner monologue): "Damn, she really is a walking paradox. Elegant like a queen, but got that quiet dominatrix vibe. Hotter than I expected. Silver-haired justice milf in the flesh."
He shifted, drawing their eyes to his lean, bruised torso. His coat fluttered slightly, still stained with the ash of the Hydra pirates.
Gion: "He doesn't even try to hide his cockiness… and that makes it worse. Or better. Depending how you like your chaos."
Adam tilted his head. "Let me guess. Join the Navy, serve justice, get a uniform, and stop burning slave ships?"
Tsuru, ignoring the sarcasm, stepped forward. "You act like a wild card, but I've seen that fire before. In legends. You're not like the rest."
Just then, the [System Interface] flickered in Adam's mind.
[New Mission: S-Rank Marine Dilemma]
Option 1: Join the Marines and build influence from the inside.
Option 2: Remain independent and forge your own path.
(Note: Cooperation permitted regardless of choice. No system penalties)
Adam snorted internally.
Adam (inner monologue): "Yeah, right. As if I'd put on a leash. I'll play along, but nobody owns me. Not even a sexy marine milf."
He crossed his arms again. "I'll cooperate. You want info? I'll give it. You want help? Depends on my mood. But I'm not saluting anyone."
Tsuru nodded. "That's acceptable. For now."
Behind her, Gion smirked. "We'll see if your mood changes after we serve you tea."
Adam (inner monologue): "Oho? Teasing me now, are we? I see how it is. She's hot, cheeky, and carries a sword. Deadly package."
[That Night – Adam's Ship, Upper Deck]
The stars glittered above as Adam leaned against the mast. The Kuja girls were asleep inside. The sea rocked gently. A figure stepped into the moonlight.
Tsuru.
Still in uniform. Still composed.
"You don't sleep much, do you?" she asked softly.
"Bad dreams," he muttered. "And a little paranoia. You know, trauma and stuff."
She joined him at the railing. "I've seen worse."
"I'm guessing you've been worse."
A beat of silence. Then a smile.
"You're not wrong."
Adam's gaze drifted to her neckline, then to her eyes.
Adam (inner monologue): "This close, she's way too fine. Damn near makes me consider behaving. Nah, who am I kidding."
She noticed the glance and didn't look away.
"You're dangerous, Adam. Not just your power. Your charm. Your unpredictability."
"And you're not exactly safe either."
She smirked. "Good."
For a moment, the world hushed. Their faces inches apart.
"You'll be hunted," she said.
"Let them come."
"I might be one of them."
"I'll go easy on you."
She turned slowly. "Don't."
Then she disappeared into the night fog, leaving behind only the scent of lavender and sea salt.
[Marine Warship – Gion's Quarters, Morning]
Gion brushed her long hair as Tsuru sipped tea across from her.
"He's going to be trouble," Gion said.
Tsuru nodded. "The best kind."
"You think he's D material?"
"He's storm material. Let the world brace for it."
[Amazon Lily – A Day Later]
Adam's ship neared the shores of the Kuja homeland. The jungle skyline rose in the distance, filled with mystery and warriors.
The Kuja girls crowded the railing.
Hancock glanced at Adam. "You're not staying?"
Adam grinned. "Nah. I like my women free and wild. Besides, I've got a sea to set on fire."
She blushed. "Then come back and burn with us too."
He winked. "You know it."
Adam (inner monologue): "She's gonna be a goddess one day. And I get to say I saw the blush before the throne."
As the girls disembarked, Adam turned back to the helm.
A storm was rising.
His.