With the matter of the Ope Ope no Mi and the Donquixote family concluded, Kaito dedicated himself to training Law. With Kuma's ability to push away his fatigue, Law could train for nine hours a day, relentlessly honing his control over the Devil Fruit while devouring medical texts to unlock its full potential.
In just one month, the impossible happened. Through a complex application of his powers, Law successfully purged the Amber Lead from his system, rewriting his own genetic code to restore himself to health. His genius was undeniable, and under Kaito's focused tutelage, he grasped the fruit's advanced capabilities with astonishing speed.
Kuma watched the transformation with quiet awe. "It's a miracle," he murmured, a rare smile touching his lips as he saw the gray patches on Law's skin vanish for good.
"Good," Kaito said, clapping a hand on Law's shoulder. "Now that you're cured, you should call Corazon with the good news. After that, your next patients are Ginny and Bonney. Study their cases carefully."
Law smiled, but after a moment's thought, he shook his head. "No. You tell him. I promised I'd wait for him to call me when he was ready."
Kaito's smile was knowing. "As you wish. Then I'll take my leave. It's time I returned home for a while."
"...Thank you. For everything," Law said, his gratitude genuine.
"You're welcome. But remember, you'll have to pay it back one day," Kaito reminded him lightly.
Law smirked. "Are you going to tell me who you are now?"
"Nothing personal, but you're still too green to know my identity."
"Then I'll get stronger."
"By the time you do, I might have decided to reveal myself to the world anyway," Kaito replied with a cryptic grin. He turned to Kuma. "Alright, Transporter. Send me to East Blue. Logue Town, specifically."
Kuma shook his head in fond exasperation. "Call me when you need something." With a soft puff, he sent Kaito on his way.
Kaito appeared in Logue Town, his eyes immediately drawn to the famed execution platform. After a moment of reflection, he began browsing the town's sword shops. He soon found the one he was looking for.
"Hello, sir! How can I help you today?" Ipponmatsu greeted him, his eyes briefly lingering on the customer's gold mask. A man with a gold mask... I've heard rumors. Must be a wealthy client.
"I'm in the market for a sword. Show me what you have," Kaito said.
"Of course! Right this way, I have the finest selection in the East Blue!" Ipponmatsu launched into a well-practiced spiel, but Kaito's attention had already drifted. He walked past the shopkeeper, his gaze fixed on a particular blade in the 50,000-berry rack.
"Hmm... Now this is interesting. The Sandai Kitetsu. I didn't expect to find a lost blade like this here," Kaito mused, picking it up.
Ipponmatsu rushed over, his face pale. "Sir! A word of caution! That blade is cursed! It brings misfortune and death to its wielders. Perhaps you'd like to see a different—"
Kaito simply smiled and drew the blade. A faint, malevolent aura seemed to emanate from the steel. "Yes... I can feel it rejecting me already. Fascinating, isn't it? How an inanimate object can possess such a will."
"R-Rejecting you? What do you mean, sir?" Ipponmatsu stammered, confused by the man's calm demeanor.
"Never mind. I'll take it. How much?"
"Sir, as I said, it's—"
"I know all about it," Kaito interrupted. "The Sandai Kitetsu, third of the Kitetsu line. A cursed sword that leads its user to a grisly end. Don't worry, I'm not going to use it. It's a shame to let such a masterpiece gather dust. I intend to find it a worthy owner."
Ipponmatsu was taken aback. "And how will you find this 'worthy owner'? Will you just hand it to strangers until one dies?"
"Hahaha! It's simpler than that. Watch." Kaito casually tossed the sword into the air and held out his arm beneath it. Instead of landing flat, the blade rotated and sliced cleanly through his forearm.
"Aaaaaaah!" Ipponmatsu screamed in horror.
"You see?" Kaito said calmly, wiggling the fingers of his now-reformed Logia arm. "If the sword had acknowledged me, it wouldn't have tried to cut me. Now, the price?"
"It... it didn't try, it did!" Ipponmatsu snapped, staring at the intact arm. Realizing the man was a Devil Fruit user of immense power, he collected himself. "Fifty thousand berries."
"Good. It seems I won't find a blade for myself here today," Kaito said, counting out the money.
"Wait," Ipponmatsu said, a thoughtful look on his face. "I have another sword. An heirloom." He returned moments later with a sleek, black-sheathed katana.
"Yubashiri," Kaito identified it, taking the blade. It felt light and nimble in his hand, but it didn't feel like an extension of his will. "Tsk. This one doesn't suit me either. It's too light for my taste."
"It's a fine sword that deserves a master. If you are truly looking to find worthy wielders for blades, perhaps you could take this one as well? It has languished here for too long."
"Very well. I have someone in mind for the Kitetsu, but not for this one. If I can't find Yubashiri a master, I'll return it."
"Oh? You have a candidate for the cursed blade? A famous swordsman?"
"Famous? He's an eight-year-old boy. How famous could he be?"
Ipponmatsu's jaw dropped. "You can't be serious! You wouldn't give that death-trap to a child!"
"Of course not," Kaito said, and the shopkeeper sighed in relief. "I'll simply test if the sword acknowledges him now, and hold onto it until he's older."
Ipponmatsu was rendered speechless.
"Here is two million berries for both. Consider it an investment. Keep acquiring good swords, and I'll be a repeat customer." Before the stunned shopkeeper could formulate a response, Kaito was gone.
With the two legendary blades, Kaito knew he had the perfect motivation for Zoro and Kuina. He returned to his home island.
After a warm reunion with his mother, regaling her with tales of his adventures, he headed for the dojo.
"Hey everyone! How's the training going?"
"Big Brother Kaito!" the students swarmed him. After spending time with them, he found Koshiro and his father, Menma.
"You're back, and with new swords?" Menma noted. "Thinking of taking up three-sword style like Zoro?"
"Not quite. I came to see if these blades would suit their new owners. They're quite famous." He first presented Yubashiri.
Koshiro took it, testing its balance. "A gentle sword. Very light and swift. Excellent for precision."
"I thought it might suit Kuina," Kaito said. Then, he unsheathed the Sandai Kitetsu.
The atmosphere in the room grew heavy. Koshiro and Menma immediately frowned.
"You feel it," Kaito stated. "It's cursed. Unlike the Wado Ichimonji, which only harms its user if it fails them, this one actively seeks the death of any it deems unworthy."
"Mm. It reeks of bloodlust," Menma agreed, his hand instinctively moving closer to his own hilt.
Just then, Kuina and Zoro entered. "Brother Kaito!"
"Hey, you two. How are you progressing?"
"I'm doing great! I just beat Zoro for the hundredth time today," Kuina said triumphantly.
"Tch. You just keep running away! It's not fair!" Zoro grumbled.
"That's called strategy, you moss-headed idiot!"
As they bickered, Kaito turned to Koshiro. "I see Kuina has begun mastering the Six Powers."
"Yes. She recognized that pure physical strength might not be her path, so she's focusing on speed and technique," Koshiro explained, as Kuina demonstrated a flickering Soru step.
"Come, look at these," Kaito called, drawing their attention to the swords.
Zoro's eyes locked onto the Sandai Kitetsu. He frowned deeply. "This sword... it's bad."
Kaito was surprised. "Zoro, have you mastered Observation Haki?" He hadn't sensed it.
Koshiro smiled. "He has only glimpsed the door. But his awakening is unique. He seems to have grasped the 'Breath of All Things' first. He gets distracted by the 'voice' of inanimate objects, which hinders his ability to read living opponents."
Kaito's smile widened. "So the natural-born swordsman awakens as a natural-born swordsman. Of course."
Zoro looked puzzled. "Master says it's a good thing, but I don't understand why. It just makes training harder."
"Master told you everything has a breath, right?"
"Yes."
"Those who master the Breath of All Things can cut what they wish, and protect what they wish. They can also send the power of their swing flying." Kaito demonstrated, first with a normal slash that cut the air. Then, with the same motion, he unleashed a flying slash that sliced a distant training post in half. "The power was the same. The difference is feeling the sword's breath and projecting it."
Zoro looked unimpressed. "So it's just a flying slash. What's the big difference?"
"The difference," Kaito said, "is that you could, in theory, use that principle with anything—a leaf, a branch, even your own arm. You could unleash a slash without a sword at all, by mimicking the 'breath' of a cut."
Zoro's eyes finally lit up with understanding. "Oh! So when I master it—"
"—You'll still be too young and your body too underdeveloped to handle the strain," Kaito finished. "Don't even try it seriously until you're eighteen."
Zoro pouted spectacularly.
Kaito then watched as Zoro, almost instinctively, picked up the Sandai Kitetsu. The cursed blade, which had vibrated with malice moments before, seemed to grow still and calm in his grasp. "Incredible," Kaito whispered.
A swift, clean cut through the air. They turned to see Kuina flawlessly executing a drill with Yubashiri. "I like this one. It's even better balanced than the Wado. I'll take it."
"It seems the sword likes you, too," Kaito said, nodding in approval.
"Of course. It's a sword that knows its business, unlike that stubborn Wado," Kuina said, casting a proud glance at her primary blade.
After a long day at the dojo, Kaito returned home with his father. That night, instead of sleeping, he went to a secluded spot and called Corazon.
"Hey, it's me."
"Yeah, 'me' doesn't narrow it down much. I still don't know what to call you."
"...A fair point. I'll figure out an alias later. The reason for my call: Law is cured. He wanted to tell you himself, but he decided to honor your wish for space."
"Really?! That's the best news I've heard in years!" Corazon's joyful shout was clear through the snail.
"So, what have you been up to?"
"...It's been alright. I've met some people. We're... forming a crew. Starting to sail together." Corazon's tone was hesitant.
"You sound troubled. What's wrong?"
"Rumors are circulating in the underworld. I'm being suspected of being the informant who leaked the location of the Ope Ope no Mi."
"Did they trace it back to you?"
"I was careful, but I think Doflamingo is behind the rumors. The 'Joker' is the one spreading them."
Kaito was silent for a moment. "Here's what you do. Start a counter-rumor. Say the one who took the fruit was Marine Colonel Vergo."
"Vergo? Are you saying he's a Marine?"
"Yes, I know it for a fact. When the Marines inevitably investigate him, they'll find evidence. It will make your story more believable and throw Doflamingo into a rage."
"Are you absolutely sure?"
"On my life."
"Okay then. Hahaha! Payback is a bitch, Doffy!"
"Have fun with that." Kaito hung up with a smile.
The following weeks were peaceful. Kaito spent his time training, focusing on the advanced application of Armament Haki known as Internal Destruction. He practiced by punching small hills, trying to shatter them from the inside without breaking the surface.
Just as he was beginning to make progress, Kuma called.
"Kaito. Ginny and Bonney... they're cured. It's a complete success."
"That's fantastic news, big guy! Things are finally looking up for you."
"Thank you. We owe you and Law everything."
"Well, when are you going to start a proper family? You're not getting any younger, and Bonney could use a sibling."
There was a long silence on the other end, followed by Ginny's voice. "Kaito, that is a wonderful idea! Kuma, dear, he's right! Now is the perfect time!"
"Ahem. We can discuss this later," Kuma mumbled, his embarrassment evident even through the Den Den Mushi.
"What? Don't you want to have a baby with me?" Ginny's voice wavered with pretend tears.
"No! It's not that! I just worry about your health, you just recovered—"
"Nonsense! Law gave me a clean bill of health! You just don't love me anymore!"
"I swear, nothing would make me happier! But if there's any risk—"
"Then it's decided! We'll ask Law. If he says it's safe, we're trying!"
Kaito chimed in with a teasing tone. "Congratulations in advance, big guy. Don't embarrass us."
Kuma grunted, changing the subject. "I heard Germa 66 has crossed the Red Line and is heading for East Blue. Be careful."
"I will. Goodbye." Kucha.
Kaito's expression turned serious. Germa. So Sanji's story begins. He pondered the ripple effects. With Zoro and Kuina growing stronger faster, and with Fisher Tiger likely alive, altering Nami's past, the future Straw Hat crew's dynamic would be drastically different. Luffy still needs to become Joy Boy. I can't let these changes derail that.
He called Corazon. "I need information. What is Germa 66's target in East Blue?"
A day later, the answer came: Cozia Island. A World Government affiliate with a weak military but a rich gold mine. The king had grown greedy, reducing his heavenly tribute, and the World Government had quietly hired Germa to make an example of him.
Typical, Kaito thought. Dragon can't intervene without provoking a direct war. This is on me.
He arrived at Cozia to find the king living in luxury, oblivious to the doom approaching. Kaito entered the palace, discreetly knocking out the courtiers in the throne room.
"Who are you?!" the king demanded, rising from his throne.
"My apologies for the interruption. I bring a warning. In two days, Germa 66 will attack your kingdom. They are crossing the Red Line as we speak."
"What?! How dare they! We are members of the—"
"—World Government? Precisely. The tribute you sent was insufficient. They've decided to replace you."
The king's face paled. "But my advisor said..."
Kaito understood. The king had tried to skim off the top and been caught. "Regardless, I've told you so you can warn your people to flee. Now, let's discuss my fee."
After a moment of panicked calculation, the king made an offer. "Help me and my family escape with half the royal treasury, and it's yours."
"Acceptable. Be ready to leave in one day." As Kaito vanished, a sly smile crept onto the king's face.
True to form, the king loaded his family and the entire treasury onto a massive royal ship and set sail half a day early, abandoning his people.
Kaito watched from a cliff, shaking his head in disgust. "Greedy to the end." He appeared on the ship's deck in a flash of lightning. A controlled pulse of Conqueror's Haki washed over the vessel, knocking out everyone aboard. "My control is improving," he mused to himself.
He then used his powers to transmute the gold into a functional, if crude, flying machine, carrying the ship and its treacherous cargo away. Returning to the island, he located the remaining gold, reforged it into a larger vessel, and sought out the most reputable citizens. He told them the truth and helped them evacuate the remaining population, leaving Germa an empty prize.
When Germa's fleet arrived, they found a deserted island and news reports already spreading across the globe about their failed, punitive attack.
Judge Vinsmoke slammed his fist on his command table. "Fool! Who leaked this?!"
Reiju sighed internally. This is a massive blow to our reputation.
Ichiji and Niji, however, seemed amused. "Hahaha! So this is what failure feels like! Maybe Sanji's weakness is rubbing off on us!" they laughed, utterly devoid of shame. Judge looked at his emotionless sons, a strange flicker of something—disappointment?—in his eyes.
Suddenly, a voice cut through the command center. "My, my. So this is the fearsome Germa 66? I'm a little disappointed."
They spun around. A man in a gold mask was leaning against the doorway, casually examining one of their patented raid suits.
"Who are you?!" Judge barked.
"Hey! That's mine!" Niji yelled, realizing his suit was gone. The others checked their persons to find their suits missing too.
"Guards!" Judge shouted.
"They won't answer. I took the liberty of putting them all to sleep. Take a look outside."
Judge peered through the viewport to see his entire army unconscious. He turned back, keeping his children behind him. "You. You're the one who warned Cozia."
"Guilty as charged. I heard you were in the neighborhood and got curious. Did some digging and found your contract. I have to say, for a kingdom renowned as an 'evil army,' this is underwhelming. Your technology is impressive for bullying civilians, but that's about it. You're all remarkably... weak."
"You think you've won?" Judge snarled, pressing a button on his wrist. "Kill the intruder!"
Turrets emerged from the walls, opening fire with seastone-laced ammunition. Kaito weaved through the barrage, his expression turning serious. "I see. I underestimated you. My mistake."
He raised a hand. "Ragia."
A cataclysmic thunderstorm erupted within the enclosed space, overloading and destroying every weapon system in a shower of sparks.
"You underestimated me, too," Kaito said calmly.
Judge's eyes widened in terror as he recognized the power. "The Veiled Tempest... You're the one who attacked Mary Geoise!"
Before he could say another word, Kaito pointed a finger. "Rail Gun."
A hyper-accelerated projectile of pure force tore through Judge's shoulder, spinning him around. He cried out in pain and shock.
"Ooooh, so cool! Hahahaha!" Niji laughed.
"Yeah, our electricity is a joke compared to that!" Yonji joined in.
"We're going to die! Father can't even touch him! Hahaha!"
Reiju remained silent, her eyes fixed on the masked man, analyzing him.
"Your children are... fascinating. They seem to lack basic survival instincts," Kaito noted. "You, the one with pink hair. You seem different. What's wrong with them?"
Reiju glanced at her wounded father, then back at Kaito. "We were genetically modified. Stripped of most human emotions to become perfect soldiers."
Kaito stared at Judge. "You are a special kind of monster. To do that to your own children..." His voice was cold. "What are your names?"
"Ichiji," said the red-haired one.
"Niji," said the blue.
"Yonji," said the green.
"Reiju," the pink-haired girl finished.
Kaito paused. "...Shouldn't there be a Sanji?"
Judge grimaced. "He was a failure. He's imprisoned."
"Go get him," Kaito ordered Reiju.
She didn't move. "What do you want with him?"
"Just do it. Or I'll find him myself."
Reiju looked at her father, who gave a pained nod. She left and returned with a small, bruised, and frightened boy with blond hair.
"Sanji, is it?" Kaito asked, his voice softening slightly. "Your father has caused a great deal of suffering and will continue to do so. I am giving you a choice. Should I kill him?"
Sanji flinched, tears welling in his eyes. "N-No..."
"Why not? He's a demon. I'd be doing the world a favor."
"My... my mother wouldn't have wanted that," Sanji whispered.
"If you spare him, the blood of his future victims will be on your hands. Do you understand?"
Sanji broke down sobbing. "I can't! I can't say it! Even though I know what he is, I can't!"
Reiju stepped forward. "Enough! You've made your point. Do what you want, but stop torturing him!"
Kaito looked between them. "What do you want to do, Sanji, if you leave this place?"
"I... I want to be a chef," Sanji said, his voice firming with resolve.
Kaito let out a short laugh. "A chef. Amazing. Alright, Judge. It seems you produced one worthwhile child after all. Here's the deal: Sanji leaves with me, and in exchange, I don't kill you. Sound fair?"
Defeated, Judge nodded.
"Before I go, I want a copy of all your scientific research. Every last file."
Judge hesitated, but a glance at Kaito's sparking fingertips made him comply.
"Sanji, do you want to say goodbye to your... siblings?"
"No," Sanji said, not even looking at them. "I never want to see them again."
"Reiju? Do you want to leave?"
She looked torn, but finally shook her head. "...No. I can't."
Judge returned with a stack of data chips. Kaito took them. "Then our business is concluded. Let's go, Sanji."
Without a backward glance, Sanji followed the masked man out of the floating fortress, leaving the dysfunctional family of Germa behind, and stepping into an uncertain but hopeful future.