Sandy Island, located at the entrance to the New World, was a barren land, covered mostly in desolate sand.
Like Orange Town, it served as a neutral supply island. Pirates often stopped here, sometimes Marines too, but most common were merchant ships hauling supplies.
Though the New World was filled with treasure, its harsh environment and erratic weather meant resources were scarce. Merchants had sensed a huge opportunity and formed countless companies to transport goods into the New World.
Inside Sandy Island's largest tavern, Rock Bar, the air was thick with smoke and noise. Pirates from all seas were celebrating before venturing into the New World.
Creed sat in a corner, sipping his drink, frowning as he listened to their chatter.
He hadn't expected Kaido's forces to attack G-K Branch just for Big Mom's sake. Still, just as he anticipated, with Fujitora, Ain, and Falkor defending, Jack alone wasn't enough to topple the branch.
But when he heard Queen had joined in, and that Fujitora was injured, Creed grew worried.
Even more surprising—the ones who saved G-K Branch weren't Marines from G-5 or Headquarters, but the Whitebeard Pirates.
"First Division Commander Marco, huh? That's no small favor."
Just as Creed was about to leave, a silver-bell yet magnetic voice called out:
"Sir, may I share a drink with you?"
A tall, beautiful woman approached, wearing a dark blue cowboy hat. Her open leather jacket, short skirt, and thigh-high boots accentuated her curvaceous figure.
Though it was their first meeting, Creed recognized her immediately—Nico Robin!
The "Devil Child" who, at just eight years old, had been given a bounty of 79 million.
"What an honor. Please give my regards to Crocodile." Creed gestured politely.
Robin had joined Crocodile at sixteen and would later sail with Luffy after his defeat. Right now, she was still under Crocodile's command.
"As expected of Creed, you saw through me right away. It seems Marine intelligence is even more frightening than we thought."
Robin sat gracefully, raising her glass.
"Sorry, I'm a Marine traitor now. I don't like hearing the word 'Marine.' Also, tell Crocodile that if he wants an alliance, forget it. But if he's willing to serve under me, then maybe I'll consider it."
Creed rose to leave, leaving Robin a little surprised.
After the chaos at Mary Geoise, Creed felt a spark within him—something he wanted to fight for. But he would need strong, like-minded comrades.
He knew Crocodile's message, but Creed already had better candidates in mind. Crocodile just didn't measure up for now.
Soon after, Creed joined a merchant convoy bound for West Sea Island.
But when he boarded, he found Robin already waiting.
"Miss Robin, is my disguise really that bad? You always seem to see through it." Creed chuckled, stroking his fake mustache.
"You jest, Creed. This convoy belongs to Crocodile. I'm merely escorting it."
Robin shook her head with a smile.
Creed didn't mind. His real goal was reaching G-K Branch as soon as possible.
Afterward, he'd part ways with everyone. As a wanted Marine traitor, he couldn't afford to drag them down.
With Robin and several S-class escorts, plus Crocodile's reputation, the convoy sailed smoothly.
But near West Sea Island, pirate raids began.
They never got close—Creed cut them down, ship and crew, with a single sword strike.
The sea around West Sea Island had long been cleansed. For pirates to appear again meant one thing—G-K Branch was in bad shape.
Many were tied to Kaido, or old enemies seeking revenge.
Creed didn't hold back. Every pirate ship was destroyed.
Robin, watching Creed easily wipe out even Supernova-level crews, finally believed he truly deserved that 2 billion bounty.
Yet neither of them noticed a "tail"—a lone figure riding a bicycle across the sea, following from kilometers away.
…
"We're almost there, Miss Robin. Let's part ways here." Creed said as West Sea Island came into view.
"Creed, you've hitched a ride on my ship for two days. Aren't you at least going to invite me for tea?" Robin teased with a smile.
"Of course. As long as you don't mind my tea being terrible." Creed replied.
As the convoy docked, Creed saw the state of West Sea Island.
The defensive walls were heavily damaged, but the bunkers and fortifications held strong—meaning the enemy hadn't breached inside.
Relief washed over him. If the fortifications held, then casualties within G-K Branch weren't too severe.
But the port told another story—signs of battle at Admiral-level strength had torn half the harbor apart.
"Kaido…"
This debt would be settled with him.
Creed narrowed his eyes.
Instead of entering through the main gate, he and Robin slipped in quietly. Soon, they found Ain.
As a wanted traitor, Creed couldn't be seen returning. If word spread, G-K Branch would face punishment.
When Ain saw him, her jaw dropped, tears welling up.
"Commander!" she cried.
"Eeee!" Falkor leapt onto Creed's shoulder, licking his face, nuzzling his neck, twirling happily.
The little dragon's affection dispelled Creed's gloom, bringing a smile to his face.
After exchanging a few words with Ain, Creed took Falkor and prepared to leave.
He couldn't risk meeting Fujitora or others. Ain could pass along his words.
As they slipped out of the base, ready to reboard the convoy—
"Creed, brat, long time no see. And you too, Robin."
(End of Chapter)
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