Within Pangaea Castle, in the Holy Land of Mariejois, the Five Elders were attending to their duties when a Cipher Pol agent rushed in with an urgent report.
"Whitebeard's commander is making contact with the Witch?" one of the Elders questioned.
"It appears so, sir… though we haven't confirmed it definitively," the agent replied.
"Hmm… I don't see a reason for them to contact her now… who was involved?"
"We've confirmed it was the Second Division Commander, 'Fire Fist,' and the subordinate pirate, 'Cavalier' Doma."
"Fire Fist and Cavalier…"
They were reportedly leaving the Moby Dick, Whitebeard's flagship, and heading towards Kanata's location with a subordinate pirate. While it was understandable to report a meeting between an Emperor and an Emperor-equivalent organization, the Five Elders didn't consider it a major issue. After all, Kanata and Newgate's mutual animosity was well-known. It was unlikely the two, locked in a potential adversarial relationship for years, would suddenly become friendly.
"I doubt they'll join forces, but…"
"This is a meeting between an Emperor and an equivalent power. We can't leave them unmonitored."
"Are they headed for Hachinosu?"
"No, sir. It seems they're planning to meet in the Romnis Empire…"
"Then there's no need for concern."
A meeting in Hachinosu would suggest a high level of caution regarding eavesdroppers, but a meeting in the Romnis Empire wouldn't escalate to the level of concern for the Five Elders.
Kanata's stance towards the Whitebeard Pirates hadn't changed in twenty years. Her unwillingness to cooperate had severely weakened them, their numbers dwindling from over 40,000 in their prime to less than 30,000. It was unlikely something significant enough to change that stance had occurred.
Fire Fist and Kanata had met once before, but she had nearly killed him in the arena. They had dismissed it as simply another reckless challenger, a minor incident of a promising rookie almost being eliminated.
"With the severe shortage of food and medicine, the Whitebeard Pirates are cornered. Unlike the Big Mom and Beasts Pirates, who primarily rely on plunder, it was only a matter of time before they ran dry. Have they finally given in?"
"There are many who feel indebted to Whitebeard. And those profiting from resales would ensure a minimum level of distribution."
"If this is a declaration of war, that simplifies matters…"
"That man is a moderate who values his crew. I doubt he would initiate something like this."
"…Is there a chance 'Fire Fist' went to negotiate on his own?"
The World Government was well aware of Ace's impulsive nature. He had attacked a Warlord and retaliated against a Vice Admiral sent to recruit him. He was likely to lash out at anyone he disliked, regardless of their status. With the increasing clashes with the Beasts and Big Mom Pirates' alliance, the Five Elders didn't want any additional sparks… but they wouldn't mind if a conflict with the enigmatic "Twilight Pirates" exposed some of Kanata's hidden strengths.
Since the rise of the "Twilight Pirates," the Marines had been expanding their forces. Even if Kanata were eliminated and they were forced to face the Four Emperors Alliance, they estimated they could repel them with the combined might of the World Government army and the Navy. It was a risky gamble, one they would rather avoid.
"And… sir," the agent added hesitantly.
"Is there something else?"
"One of the Red Hair Pirates' ships has arrived in the Romnis Empire…"
"…That's normal. Leave it be."
The "Twilight" ships only frequented the territory of one Emperor – Red Hair. They knew that contact was made twice a year, at set times. They assumed this was one such occasion and didn't consider it important. Kanata herself had reported that she traded with Shanks, having known him since he was an apprentice on Roger's ship.
While she was cunning, and they couldn't take her words at face value, Shanks was also a moderate who rarely acted rashly. They judged that he posed no immediate threat to the World Government and maintained only minimal surveillance.
***
Within the royal palace of the Romnis Empire.
While typically restricted to royalty and their associates, pirates occasionally visited due to Kanata's presence. She rented a room, using it as an office. It was located in a separate wing, far from the royal family's quarters, minimizing the chance of encounters. Consequently, it was also the most heavily guarded area in the empire.
A guide led Ace and Doma through the palace corridors. Doma, nervous about meeting Kanata, whose strength rivaled even Whitebeard, couldn't help but steal glances at Ace, who seemed unconcerned. He hadn't intended to come here. He had only agreed because Ace had persistently begged him, "Take me with you!" He hadn't imagined Ace would barge straight into the castle. He had been certain they would be turned away at the gate, so he was doubly surprised.
"Ace, what's your relationship with the Witch?" Doma asked.
"What do you mean by 'what'…?"
It seemed difficult to explain, and after struggling to find the right words, he finally gave up, muttering, "I'll tell you later."
He would likely regret it later, but he didn't want to waste the precious time they had been given. Ace quickened his pace, following the guide to a room at the end of the corridor. The guide knocked, and they were granted entry.
"Excuse me!" Ace announced.
"E-Excuse me," Doma added.
The room, contrary to expectations, wasn't lavishly decorated. While some paintings and art pieces adorned the walls, it was far from opulent. Kanata was apparently working through a mountain of documents, her movements mechanical as she reviewed, signed, and stamped papers. Without looking up, she addressed the two.
"It's been a while, Ace."
"Hello, it has been a long time."
"There's no need for formalities. I don't expect pirates to be polite."
Such things were a waste of time. Lecturing unruly pirates would take forever. Ace, though initially hesitant, relented under Kanata's insistent gaze.
"Okay, I'll be casual, but I have a request."
"Go ahead."
"Actually—"
"No," Kanata interrupted, continuing to process documents without looking up.
Ace hadn't even made his request, but Kanata had already seen what he intended to say.
"Food, medicine, and alcohol. You've managed to scrape by until now, but you're finally running out of supplies. You want to buy some from me."
"…You knew?" Ace asked, surprised.
"Of course. I'm the one who put you in this situation."
Ace and Doma were speechless. Kanata had already foreseen their reaction, so she warned them.
"Even if the two of you attack me together in a fit of rage, you won't win. You're interrupting my work. If that's all you wanted, you can leave. I have other business to attend to."
"…We can't just leave! We're not asking for handouts! Just sell them to us—" Ace protested.
"Newgate and I have been adversaries for over twenty years. I went to Fish-Man Island because I had to, but that's the extent of our contact. I have no reason to help him, so it's his own fault if he runs dry."
"Why… why would you… !!"
"Because he's a potential enemy. Do you need another reason?"
This was war, in a different form. If you lose, you die. Even if you win a direct confrontation, there would undoubtedly be casualties. She was simply taking the necessary measures to minimize risks and secure victory.
"This isn't a game. I have an obligation to protect my crew, and a responsibility to use every available means to avoid losing them. Regardless of who the opponent is."
"…You're saying that to me?" Ace asked.
"It wouldn't change anything even if Newgate knew. He's not a fool. He's already realized it."
He simply had no way to counter it. If he resorted to force, she would annihilate him alongside the Marines, but… Newgate hadn't chosen that path. Even at their peak, the Whitebeard Pirates didn't have the strength to defeat the combined forces of "Twilight" and the Navy. He had been replenishing his supplies through roundabout means, using intermediaries and plundering other pirates, but even that was reaching its limit.
"Newgate doesn't have much time left. He's quite old, and even if he wasn't, his illness is consuming him."
Ace couldn't deny it. The numerous medicines Marco administered daily. The meals Thatch carefully prepared from their limited supplies, considering Newgate's health. Yet, his condition only worsened.
"It seems I hit a nerve."
"You…!!"
"Wait, Ace! Don't be rash!" Doma pleaded, grabbing his arm.
Ace clenched his fists, took a step towards Kanata, who still hadn't looked up from her paperwork, and slammed his hand on the desk.
"Even so, we need your help."
"Then what can you offer? If you want to negotiate, bring something of equal value."
"You can help us, can't you?"
Kanata's hand froze mid-signature. She hadn't wanted to resort to this, but desperate times called for desperate measures. Ace finally met her gaze, his eyes filled with determination.
"You said it yourself. 'Roger saved my life twice. I owe him a lifelong debt'."
"…And?"
"Consider this the final repayment. Please," Ace pleaded, lowering his head in supplication.
He couldn't bear to see his "family" suffer any longer. They weren't exactly wealthy, and food, medicine, and alcohol were difficult to obtain within their territory alone. Thatch had complained that the food they caught themselves, while sufficient for survival, lacked nutritional balance. He wouldn't stand idly by and wait, no matter the cost.
He would even use his hated father if he had to.
Kanata studied Ace's face, sensing his unwavering resolve, and set down her pen.
"…Even if you weren't directly instructed, family is family. How poignant."
Ace, who valued his crew above all else and never turned his back on anyone, was just like his father. I hate to admit it, but I've lost this one, Kanata thought, sighing inwardly. Her pact with Roger was absolute. She couldn't break it; that would be a betrayal of herself.
"Very well. Though it's irritating."
"Then—"
"But I have a condition."
Kanata took a sheet of stationery from her desk drawer, quickly wrote a message, and sealed it with wax. She handed the letter to Ace. "Give this to Newgate," she instructed.
"This is my condition. I can't offer any further concessions."
"…Can't I read it here?" Ace asked.
"No. Give this letter to Newgate, and discuss it with him."
This was her limit. The rest depended on Newgate and Ace accepting her condition. It was a gamble, but Newgate wouldn't be happy with his current situation either. It was simply a matter of whether his organization self-destructed, or crumbled due to external pressure. The letter concerned the survival of the Whitebeard Pirates.
"Is that all?"
"Yes. Thank you, Kanata-san."
Ace lowered his head deeply, expressing his gratitude. Kanata stopped her paperwork, set down her pen, and, arms crossed, looked at Ace.
"Save your thanks for when everything goes well. This deal is off depending on Newgate's decision."
"I'll manage. I'll convince Pops!"
"…I see."
Ace, his expression determined, left the room with Doma, who was still struggling to keep up. Kanata glanced at the clock, realizing her next appointment was imminent, and contacted the guide.
***
The female guide knocked and entered the office, her gaze lingering curiously on Kanata, who was lost in thought, arms crossed. Just moments ago, she had been efficiently working through a mountain of documents, but now she seemed unable to focus.
"Did something happen with the two from earlier?" the guide asked.
"No… I was simply thinking how quickly young people grow. The last time I saw that boy was two years ago, but he's matured considerably, both mentally and physically."
It was slightly irritating that it had occurred under the tutelage of Newgate, whom she disliked, but it was still heartwarming to see an acquaintance's child grow into a fine young man. His Haki had also been considerably strengthened. The strength she sensed now was incomparable to two years ago. He wouldn't be so easily defeated by Ragnell now.
The guide, noticing Kanata's unusually cheerful demeanor, asked if she could bring in the next guest.
"That's right. I apologize for the wait. Bring them in."
"Certainly."
The next guest must have been waiting just outside the door, as a man entered the office immediately after the guide left. He had spiky red hair and a villainous face, but he seemed unable to hide his nervousness in Kanata's presence, his movements stiff. He stood at attention, hands clasped behind his back, and introduced himself.
"I am Rockstar, a newcomer to the Red Hair Pirates! I have a letter from the captain!"
"The usual, then. Let me see it."
Kanata accepted the letter from the visibly tense Rockstar and examined its contents. A single sentence, scrawled in messy handwriting: "The usual, please." She couldn't help but sigh. These meetings were arranged to maintain the illusion of a close relationship between the "Red Hair Pirates" and the "Twilight Pirates," but… the letter itself was utterly underwhelming.
She noticed a postscript: "More of that western liquor, please." Still drinking as much as ever, she thought.
Rockstar, assuming the comment was directed at him, straightened his posture and replied, "Y-Yes. The captain enjoys his drink…"
"Ah, my apologies. I wasn't speaking to you."
"O-Oh, I see…"
"However—"
Kanata looked up from the letter, her gaze fixed on Rockstar.
"Rockstar. Your bounty is 94 million… To be entrusted with delivering a letter as a newcomer suggests you're trusted."
"You know about me!?" Rockstar exclaimed, surprised.
"I keep an eye on most noteworthy bounties."
Rockstar, who had prided himself on being somewhat renowned as a pirate, beamed at being recognized by Kanata.
Kanata made small talk while preparing a reply on a sheet of stationery. The content was the same as always. The amount traded was the same as last time, or perhaps slightly more, but the Red Hair Pirates had a considerable number of subordinates. It wouldn't go to waste.
"I've received it," Rockstar confirmed, carefully tucking the letter away.
"Thank you. I've received a shipment of good liquor, so have them load it at the harbor later."
"That's very generous! The captain will be delighted!"
"Tell him not to drink too much. He has a bad habit of overindulging. He's a handful… And give him this as well."
It was an envelope addressed to Shanks, written in a charming, rounded script, unlike the previous letter. Rockstar noticed a strange mark on the back.
"What's this?" he asked.
"A 'Straw Hat,' apparently."
"A Straw Hat…," Rockstar repeated, puzzled.
He didn't understand, but he carefully tucked the envelope away, assuming he simply needed to deliver it to Shanks. Judging by the way she had phrased it, it wasn't from Kanata herself. Someone was using her to deliver a letter to Shanks. He would have to ask the person in question for details.
As Rockstar turned to leave, Kanata spoke.
"Is Shanks still doing well?" she asked.
"Yes. He also asked me to tell you that his prosthetic arm is working well."
"I see, that's good. I'll inform the one who made it. It wasn't me."
Rockstar glanced back at Kanata, who was leaning on the armrest, her chin resting on her hand, holding Shanks' letter in her other hand. He was momentarily captivated by her smile, her crimson eyes narrowed, before she turned her gaze towards him.
"What is it? Is there something else?" she asked.
"N-No! Excuse me!" Rockstar stammered, rushing out of the room.
"That was… unnerving…"
His heart was still pounding as he waited for the guide to escort him out.
***
"So. Did you deliver it?" Shanks asked.
"Yes, it was an easy job," Rockstar replied.
"That's good. By the way, what did you think of Kanata?"
"She was much more beautiful than I expected. I thought she would be intimidating, but she wasn't," Rockstar admitted.
Shanks burst out laughing, unable to contain himself. This honesty was likely why Shanks trusted Rockstar. He tended to favor interesting crewmates. Once his laughter subsided, Rockstar continued.
"I received a letter. Two, actually."
"Two? One must be from Kanata… but who's the other one from?"
"That's the thing, there's no sender's name… On the back, there's a 'Straw Hat', according to Kanata."
"…A Straw Hat?"
Shanks had worn a straw hat ten years ago, before giving it to Luffy in the East Blue. In other words, it had to be someone who knew Shanks from before then. Shanks seemed puzzled, conferring with Benn Beckman, who was apparently nearby. He didn't seem to know either and asked Rockstar for further details.
"There's probably a letter inside, but… I can't just open a letter addressed to the captain, can I?"
"No, it's fine. Open it."
Rockstar hesitated for a moment before carefully opening the envelope. Inside was a folded note and a ticket.
"This is a ticket for the charity concert in Alabasta that's been advertised on the radio recently."
"A concert ticket? Why would something like that…"
"There's also a note. It says, 'It's my first concert. You absolutely have to come.'"
"—No way."
There was a commotion on the other end of the line. Rockstar, unsure of what was going on, listened as they murmured, "That child?" and "Her first concert?" After a moment, Shanks spoke.
"Sorry about that. Things got a bit hectic."
"No problem… but what should I do with this?"
"It's important. Bring it to me."
"Understood."
"There wasn't anything else, was there?"
"No, not particularly… Oh, right. One of Whitebeard's commanders was there."
"…What?"
Rockstar recalled seeing Ace briefly. Ace was a recent addition to the Whitebeard Pirates, having quickly risen to the position of Second Division Commander. He was highly regarded. Rockstar, like many others, knew of Ace.
"That was 'Fire Fist.' I wonder if Whitebeard is also trading with us, like that."
"No way. Kanata and Whitebeard are like cats and dogs. There's no reason for Kanata to meet with one of Whitebeard's commanders… Are you sure it was Ace?"
"I'm positive! That was definitely 'Fire Fist'!!"
That was even more problematic. Shanks pondered, a troubled expression on his face.
"Those two have been at odds for over twenty years… I doubt they'd suddenly make amends…"
Ace and Luffy were brothers, and Kanata knew Luffy. It was reasonable to assume she met with Ace because of that connection… but he couldn't understand why she would be so invested in Ace. It was hard to believe she would become attached to Luffy just from hearing about him from Shanks or Garp.
There had to be some other connection between Kanata and Ace. Perhaps something related to Fish-Man Island…? He wasn't convinced and frowned, deep in thought. He didn't know what had transpired between the two, and his knowledge of the Fish-Man Island incident was secondhand. He didn't have enough information to make a judgment. He would focus on gathering information for now.
"…I think it'll be fine. If anything happens, Kanata will contact us. You can come back now."
"Understood. I'll load up on that good liquor and return immediately."
"Oh! I'm looking forward to it! We'll have a feast when you get back!"
"She asked me to tell you not to drink too much."
"She said that again!?"
"It's nothing new… She knows all about your drinking habits, so it can't be helped, I guess."
"She said you were a handful."
"I'm not a handful! Am I, Beck!?"
"You are," Benn Beckman replied bluntly, his words punctuated by Shanks's boisterous laughter.
Shanks looked incredibly displeased, but his words could be interpreted as disrespecting one of the Four Emperors. Rockstar was genuinely curious about how close Shanks and Kanata were.
"Captain, have you known Kanata-san for a long time?" he asked.
"Hmm? Well, yeah… I've known her since I was an apprentice, so over twenty years… maybe thirty."
They must have met when he was a baby, but neither of them remembered. So, it was safe to say their first meeting was much later. That's a long time, Rockstar thought, and then something occurred to him.
"Thirty years…? …From the way you talk, I thought she was about the same age as you, or perhaps a little older… but to be a pirate captain at that age?"
"She's ten years older than me. She's forty-seven."
Rockstar let out the loudest yell of the day.
Additional Notes:
Shanks vaguely suspected Ace's parentage, but he wasn't certain.Shanks didn't know about the promise between Roger and Kanata.