In the days that followed, Robin and Yamato became nearly inseparable.
By day, they trained together and helped out around the ship.
By night, they sat side by side on the deck beneath the stars—Robin telling stories of distant lands across the world, while Yamato eagerly shared tales of her life in Wano.
There were, however, rare exceptions.
Whenever Robin curled up in the library with a thick stack of books, Yamato would frown and quietly retreat, afraid her noise might disturb Robin. She'd pace back and forth outside the library instead, waiting patiently until Robin finished reading so they could play together again.
Even Robin herself had changed.
Unlike her original quiet, reserved demeanor, Yamato's influence had gradually made her more cheerful and expressive. Every now and then, she would even joke with the crew—something that still surprised everyone.
Half a month later, the Virtue Pirates were sailing leisurely through the waters of the New World.
Some crew members lounged on deck, soaking up the sun. Others trained their techniques. The atmosphere was relaxed and carefree.
Then—
A carrier pigeon suddenly landed on the railing, an ornate invitation tied neatly to its leg.
Shiro reached out, removed the letter, and unfolded it.
The handwriting was elegant and grand, the message direct and unmistakable:
"Captain Jabal Shiro of the Virtue Pirates is cordially invited to attend a Tea Party in Totto Land on August 15th, Year 1502."
The signature at the bottom made everyone's breath hitch.
Charlotte Linlin.
The deck erupted into chatter.
Some crew members stared at the name, fingers trembling slightly as they pointed.
Others leaned in to read more closely, their voices nearly drowning out even the sound of the sails flapping in the wind.
"Captain," Jinbe said, folding his arms as his rough fingers stroked his beard. His expression was serious as he stepped closer, lowering his voice slightly.
"Why would Big Mom suddenly invite you to a tea party? Something about this feels… off."
Nearby, Crocodile narrowed his eyes, a heavy look crossing his sharp features. He tugged his cape back with one hand and spoke firmly,
"If you ask me, this is almost certainly a trap. Don't forget—when Kaido was part of the Rocks Pirates, he and Big Mom were practically comrades-in-arms. We just wiped out the Beast Pirates entirely. There's a good chance she's using this tea party as an excuse to avenge Kaido."
The surrounding murmurs quieted.
Several crew members instinctively tightened their grip on their weapons.
"B-But Captain has the Paw-Paw Fruit!" Hachi hurriedly waved his tentacles, speaking up in Shiro's defense.
"With instant movement, even if it is a trap, they wouldn't be able to do anything to him!"
"Enough guessing."
Shiro raised his hand, his clear voice cutting through the crowd. He stepped forward, scanning the faces around him with a relaxed smile.
"It's just a tea party. I'll go and ask her myself what this is all about."
At once, Issho stepped forward, placing a firm yet gentle hand on Shiro's shoulder.
"Captain, caution is still advised," he said calmly. "Why not let us go with you? We're not far from Totto Land anyway. We can sail there aboard the Virtue—strength in numbers."
Shiro paused, his brow furrowing slightly as he considered it.
Nearby, Redfield found his thoughts drifting in two directions.
On one hand, he was genuinely curious about Big Mom's true intentions—after all, someone like her would never host a tea party without a motive.
On the other…
He couldn't help but think about the food.
Big Mom's tea parties were legendary throughout the pirate world. Delicate sweets, rich desserts, flavors said to be unmatched anywhere else on the seas.
Just imagining it made his mouth water.
After spending time with the Virtue Pirates, even the once-solitary "Red Count" had changed.
"Exactly, Captain!" Zeff suddenly strode forward, eyes gleaming with anticipation.
"Big Mom's tea parties are famous! Every dessert is said to be a masterpiece. I've always wanted to see them for myself—this is a perfect chance!"
Yamato nodded vigorously, eyes shining with excitement.
Robin smiled softly, anticipation flickering across her face.
Seeing everyone's eager expressions, Shiro placed a hand on Jinbe's thick arm, speaking with trust.
"Alright then, Jinbe. I'll leave it to you."
"No problem!" Jinbe straightened proudly and thumped his chest.
"I'll manage the Virtue's speed and make sure we arrive in Totto Land on August 15th—right on time for the tea party!"
With that, he turned and hurried toward the helm, his voice already echoing as he adjusted the ship's course.
Five days passed in the blink of an eye.
At last, the Virtue entered the waters of Totto Land.
From afar, the port was surrounded by vibrant candy-colored decorations, and the air itself carried a sweet, sugary scent.
A massive red banner hung prominently from the harbor's stone pillars.
Golden letters gleamed in the sunlight, reading:
"Welcome Captain Jabal Shiro of the Virtue Pirates to the Tea Party in Totto Land!"
As the Virtue slowly approached the dock, Shiro stood at the bow—and his eyes narrowed slightly.
The man in charge of welcoming them was none other than Big Mom's most trusted son and subordinate.
Charlotte Katakuri.
Katakuri stood tall in his signature cloak, arms folded before him.
When he noticed that every member of the Virtue Pirates had come along, a faint flicker of surprise crossed his eyes. His brows knit briefly—then his expression returned to calm neutrality.
"Long time no see, Katakuri," Shiro said with a grin as he stepped forward.
"Greetings, Jaball Shiro," Katakuri replied with a slight nod, extending his hand.
They shook hands briefly, the grip steady and restrained.
"I didn't expect your mother to send you to greet me," Shiro said lightly as they walked side by side toward the harbor.
"Looks like she really values me, huh?"
Katakuri said nothing—
but Shiro was already watching him closely.
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