Bound by Fate | Eustass Kid X OC

Ch 2 • Shadows of Destiny

•• Hanmee's P.O.V ••

I descended from the cliffside, the cool night air whispering secrets as it rustled through the trees. The distant lights of Loguetown flickered below, a reminder of the life I had left behind. With each step, the weight of my choices pressed heavily on my shoulders. My path was now fraught with danger, but I was determined to uncover the truth and reclaim my stolen memories.

Navigating the winding streets, I kept to the shadows, avoiding the watchful eyes of patrolling marines. The wanted poster with my face was plastered on every corner, a constant reminder of the price on my head. As I passed a dimly lit alley, the sound of muffled voices caught my attention. Curiosity piqued, I pressed myself against the wall and listened.

"It's confirmed. Eustass Kid and his crew are heading to Phoenix Isle," a gruff voice said. "Rumors say there's something there that could change the balance of power."

My heart raced. Phoenix Isle. The name had reached even my ears, whispered among those who dared to speak of it. A place of mystery, danger, and untold treasures. Could it be the key to unraveling the World Government's secrets? I had to find out.

Determined, I made my way to the harbor. The docks were bustling with activity, ships preparing for their journeys across the Grand Line. Among them, the imposing figure of the Victoria Punk stood out, its red sails like a beacon in the night. Eustass Kid's ship.

I couldn't approach directly. Instead, I needed a way to blend in, to stow away without drawing attention. As luck would have it, a group of merchants were loading supplies onto a nearby vessel. Silently, I slipped among them, grabbing a crate and following their lead. Before doing so, I tied my long red hair in a bun and wore a bandana. My heart pounded in my chest as I moved closer to the Victoria Punk, the shadows my only ally. It felt dangerous when I realised I was going to be the only female among the ruthless men.

Hope they won't notice me! I put on a veil but god knows what'll happen if they find out about me. If Eustass 'Captain' Kid finds out about me.

I thought to myself.

•• Kid's P.O.V ••

The crew bustled around me, their movements efficient and practiced. I watched them with a mixture of pride and anticipation. Phoenix Isle was a gamble, but one worth taking. The treasures rumored to be there were said to hold unimaginable power, and I intended to claim them for myself.

"Captain, everything's ready," Killer reported, his masked face betraying no emotion. "We set sail at dawn."

I nodded, my gaze shifting to the horizon. The sea was calm tonight, a deceptive facade for the storm that undoubtedly awaited us. "Good. Make sure the crew is prepared for anything. Phoenix Isle won't be easy."

Killer nodded and turned to relay the orders. I trusted him implicitly, my brother in all but blood. Together, we had faced countless battles and emerged victorious. This would be no different.

As I made my way to my quarters, a nagging feeling tugged at the back of my mind. The journey ahead felt different, charged with a sense of destiny. I shook off the unease and focused on the task at hand. Whatever lay on Phoenix Isle, we would conquer it.

•• Hanmee's P.O.V ••

Hidden among the crates, I listened to the crew's conversations, piecing together their plans. The ship creaked and groaned as it rocked gently in the harbor, a lullaby of the sea. I couldn't afford to let my guard down. If I was discovered, it would mean certain death. He is by far ruthless. And I despise the way he goes on with his life as well. If it weren't for my bloody bounty, I'd have thrashed him twice already though. Blood kept boiling inside me but I had to survive.