One Piece: With Sign-in System

"Takoyaki's here!"

Under the sparkling eyes of Bonney, Enzo, and Conis, the fishman shop owner placed a large platter of steaming takoyaki on the table. A wave of enticing aroma immediately filled the air.

"Ohhh!"

"That smells amazing!"

Robin and Kuina's faces lit up with satisfaction as well.

"Let's dig in!"

Bonney exclaimed, quickly spearing a piece and popping it into her mouth. A look of pure bliss spread across her face.

"Delicious~~"

As Ron and his group enjoyed the delicacies of Fish-Man Island, back at Ryugu Palace, a different conversation was taking place.

Shirahoshi's elder brother, Fukaboshi, was reporting to King Neptune about the arrival of Ron and his companions.

"That traveler Ron and his crew have arrived on Fish-Man Island?" Neptune asked, clearly surprised. "Weren't his companions said to have been killed by one of the Seven Warlords, the Tyrant?"

The incident on Drum Island had occurred over twenty days ago, and even the secluded Ryugu Kingdom in the depths of the sea had received news of it. However, they were yet unaware of Ron's feat of moving an island and attacking the World Government and Marineford.

"It seems that information was inaccurate," Fukaboshi explained. "Ron's companions appear to be members of the infamous Sky Wanderers from the rumors."

"I see..." Neptune nodded thoughtfully. "Do we know their intentions for coming to Fish-Man Island?"

"From what they've said, they plan to enter the New World through Fish-Man Island. They don't seem to harbor any ill will."

"Hohoho, if that's the case, there's no need to worry," Neptune said with a hearty laugh, stroking his thick beard. "As far as I know, although Ron is a dangerous figure capable of contending with Admirals, he hasn't committed any heinous crimes. He shouldn't pose a threat to Fish-Man Island."

"That's what I thought as well," Fukaboshi replied, nodding. "However, there is one matter that has been on my mind, which is why I've come to consult you."

"What is it?"

Fukaboshi's expression turned serious as he looked at Neptune. "Father, do you still remember Mother's dream?"

Neptune's eyes narrowed slightly. "You mean Queen Otohime's dream of coexistence with humans?"

"No, I mean her dream about the world she envisioned."

Hearing Fukaboshi's words, Neptune's mind conjured up the gentle image of his late wife, Queen Otohime. In his memories, she had once smiled warmly at him and said:

"I want to move this kingdom to the surface, to a place under the same sun as humans."

Snapping out of his reverie, Neptune looked at Fukaboshi. "You're referring to Otohime's dream of relocating Ryugu Kingdom to the surface?"

Fukaboshi nodded emphatically.

"That was nothing more than a fleeting, wistful dream," Neptune said solemnly. "Our ancestors proved centuries ago that such a thing is impossible."

"Father!" Fukaboshi raised his voice, looking determined. "I used to think the same way, but this time, with the arrival of that traveler Ron, I see a glimmer of hope."

Neptune was puzzled. "What does this have to do with Ron?"

"Father, have you forgotten? That traveler Ron possesses the powers of the Float-Float Fruit!" Fukaboshi said with a mix of excitement and anticipation. "If it's him, he might actually be able to make Fish-Man Island rise to the surface!"

"To lift all of Fish-Man Island from the seabed to the surface..." Neptune's eyes widened slightly at the audacious idea, but he quickly shook his head. "No, even with the powers of the Float-Float Fruit, such a feat seems utterly impossible."

"Father, I think it's worth a try," Fukaboshi insisted.

Neptune gazed at his son's earnest expression for a long while before finally speaking. "I'll think about it. This matter is too significant, and there's no guarantee that Ron would even agree to help..."

Meanwhile, hidden within Fish-Man District, inside the massive ship Noah—

"What did you say? That traveler Ron, the one behind the North Sea incident, has come to Fish-Man Island? With his companions?"

Hody Jones's expression darkened as he listened to Dosun, and the others report the news.

"Yes, Captain. It's definitely that Ron! Both he and his crew feel overwhelmingly powerful. Hammond couldn't even hold his weapon steady in their presence," Dosun said with a shrug.

"Hammond, Hammond," Zeo muttered mockingly. "Who are you saying couldn't hold a weapon steady? Weren't you—"

"Shut up."

Hody's cold tone silenced the group immediately.

He sat with a dark, brooding expression, his aura exuding hostility.

"In any case, do your best to avoid provoking them. They'll likely leave Fish-Man Island soon."

"Yes, sir."

"Understood."

Hody remained seated, his thoughts churning as he contemplated the arrival of such a formidable individual. The tension in the room was palpable, the undercurrents of conflict slowly building beneath the surface of the peaceful island.

Freshly stepping out of the bustling Mermaid Café, Ron and his companions strolled along the vibrant streets of Fish-Man Island.

"That was so interesting, the Mermaid Café," Conis remarked, her hands clasped behind her back as a gentle smile graced her face.

"Absolutely!" Bonney chimed in, her arms crossed confidently. "The food was delicious. Though, Conis, your cooking has its unique charm that can't be matched."

"The island really has so many unique merpeople and fish-men. It's completely different from the Sabaody Archipelago," Enzo added, his curious gaze darting around to take in every detail.

Robin's eyes caught sight of a boutique on the roadside. Turning to Kuina, she noted, "Kuina, why don't we check out that clothing store? I've noticed you don't have many outfits."

Conis nodded in agreement. "That's true. You seem to wear the same sets often."

"No need... I have enough clothes," Kuina replied, a bit flustered by the sudden attention.

"But they're all so plain," Conis teased with a playful grin. "Girls should wear something cute and stylish every now and then."

Before Kuina could protest further, Conis had already nudged her toward the boutique.

"I'll tag along, then," Bonney added, joining them.

Dressed in denim shorts, brown boots, a white half-sleeve top, and with her pink hair flowing freely beneath her hat, Bonney passed by Ron. She smirked, casting a playful glance at him. "What a shame, Captain. If only you could open your eyes, you'd get to see four gorgeous women trying on outfits. What a missed opportunity."

Ron's brow twitched. This Bonney is getting too cheeky lately... I should teach her a lesson sometime.

When the four ladies emerged from the boutique, they carried an enormous bundle of new outfits. After another round of exploration through Fish-Man Island's colorful streets, the sunlight filtering through the Sunlight Tree Eve began to dim, signaling the arrival of night.

Robin informed Ron of the approaching dusk.

Ron gave a small nod and said, "Let's find a place to stay for now."

He wasn't planning to leave Fish-Man Island just yet. Soon, the group secured a luxurious mansion in the prestigious area of Fish-Flory Manor and settled in for the night.

…

Late at Night..

Ron lay on his bed, his consciousness delving deep into the serene lake within his mind. The rhythmic cycle of Sun Breathing flowed naturally, restoring his physical and mental energy. Yet, as always, the mysterious whirlpools within his eyes drained the vitality just as quickly, leaving him perpetually at two-thirds of his peak.

Moonlight poured in through the floor-to-ceiling windows, casting a soft glow over the sleeping Enzo's peaceful face nearby.

As the night deepened, the door to Ron's room creaked open gently.

A shadow slipped inside, her every step cautious and light. The faint noise of the closing door made her flinch momentarily. Seeing no reaction from the figure on the bed, she exhaled softly, easing her nerves.

Quietly, she tiptoed closer to the bed.

Leaning over, she studied Ron's serene face, illuminated faintly by the moonlight. His sharp, chiseled features seemed almost otherworldly in the tranquil night.

She tested the waters, whispering softly, "Hey~"

"Captain~"

"Ron~"

"Oblivious, dense Captain~"

No response.

Covering her mouth to stifle a giggle, she then slid onto the bed beside him. Turning to face him, she admired his sleeping face, a mischievous grin spreading across her own.

"Looks like I got here first. I wonder why the others are so hesitant. Hehe~"

"This way, the Captain's first kiss will be mine. Mwah~"

Still no reaction.

Growing bolder, she murmured to herself, "Hmm, maybe I should try some of the tricks from that book..."

Just as she prepared to act further, a deep voice resonated near her ear, freezing her in place.

"What are you doing, Bonney?"

The words sent a jolt down her spine. She stiffened, cold sweat breaking out all over her body.

"W-w-w-w-what? Captain, y-you're awake?!"

"No, I was asleep. You just woke me up."

"By the way," Ron added lazily, propping his head up with one hand, "I've been awake since you came in."

Her eyes widened in horror. He's known from the start?! He was pretending to be asleep?!

Her heart raced as her mind scrambled for an escape. Forcing a nervous laugh, she stammered, "W-well, um, I just remembered something I need to do! I-I'll be heading back now!"

Bonney made a hasty attempt to flee, but—

"You've come this far, so why rush to leave? Why not sit down and explain exactly what you planned to do to me with those 'techniques'?" Ron's voice carried a teasing edge, his expression one of amused curiosity.

…

The Next Day…

The morning sun filtered through the waters of Fish-Man Island as Ron, Kuina, Robin, and Conis prepared to continue their exploration. Their destination for the day included the Coral Bay and Gyoncorde Plaza, both famous for their vibrant scenery and bustling atmosphere.

Bonney, however, decided to remain at the luxurious Fish-Flory Manor. Citing an upset stomach, she opted out of the outing entirely.

"Is Bonney going to be okay?" Conis asked, a trace of worry in her tone.

"She mentioned catching a cold," Robin said thoughtfully. "Perhaps she's not fully adjusted to Fish-Man Island's unique climate."

With a hint of concern lingering, the group set off toward the lively Gyoncorde Plaza.

…

As they wandered the expansive plaza, filled with shops, performers, and the unmistakable energy of Fish-Man Island, Ron suddenly turned to Robin.

"Robin, did you know there's a Poneglyph here on Fish-Man Island? It's located in the Sea Forest, northeast of the island. Would you like to go see it?"

Robin blinked in surprise before her eyes lit up with excitement. "A Poneglyph? Yes, of course! Let's go."

Their path led them away from the bustling crowds and toward the serene and mysterious Sea Forest. This tranquil spot held the Poneglyph, a massive stone inscribed with ancient text, distinct from the ones they had encountered before. Robin approached it with reverence, running her hands gently over its surface as she began translating its contents.

"This is… a letter of apology," she said after a moment, her voice tinged with curiosity. "It's written by someone named Joy Boy, addressed to the people of Fish-Man Island. He's apologizing for failing to fulfill a promise made long ago."

"A promise?" Ron echoed, the word sparking a flicker of recognition deep within him.

Robin nodded. "Yes, it seems to reference an attempt made 800 years ago. Joy Boy tried to fulfill this promise, but he couldn't. The apology specifically mentions the giant ship Noah, and the Poseidon—Fish-Man Island's mermaid princess—along with the massive sea kings that follow her command."

Ron's mind pieced together the fragments of the tale. From the apology etched into the stone, he began to form a theory.

Eight hundred years ago, humans had made a pact with Fish-Man Island. On the promised day, all the inhabitants of Fish-Man Island would board the giant ship Noah, which would be pulled to the surface by the enormous sea kings under the guidance of the mermaid princess, Poseidon.

But something went wrong.

Joy Boy and the mermaid princess of that era attempted to carry out this grand promise, but they failed. Still, the existence of the apology and the unfulfilled plan left Fish-Man Island with a lingering hope—a possibility of altering their fate someday.

Ron's lips curled into a faint smile. An interesting story, but it doesn't have much to do with me.

Yet, deep down, a small spark of curiosity lingered. How much of this ancient history would intertwine with his own journey?