One Piece: Signing In as a Pirate Begins with Roger's Execution

While the soldiers of Marine Headquarters and members of CP9 were searching for Rouge, no one knew that Karl had already brought her to the Marine base in Loguetown.

The marine whose wrist Karl had crushed had initially rushed to his superior, intending to lodge a severe complaint. However, he was instead reprimanded harshly by his superior. Karl's identity was so significant that not even CP9's highest authorities could afford to offend him.

Afterward, his superior handed him some files and told him to read them himself. Upon learning about Karl's background, the man fainted from shock. He had previously threatened to destroy Karl's family, but who could have guessed that Karl's "family" included legendary marines like Garp, Sengoku, and Zephyr? Offending such figures was practically a death sentence.

Consequently, CP9 refrained from probing into Karl's actions and let the people of Loguetown be. Similarly, the marines—though aware that Karl had used his position to relocate the people of Baterilla to Loguetown for investigation—chose not to trouble him. Instead, they focused their efforts elsewhere.

Having powerful connections is undeniably convenient. If Karl had been just an ordinary marine, people would have hounded him endlessly.

Unaware of the deterrence his identity brought, Karl didn't realize these individuals were avoiding him out of fear. Even if they had come, he wouldn't have cared.

For now, Karl's priority was to ensure Rouge could settle here peacefully. As for the future, he hadn't decided yet. At the very least, he could guarantee Ace's safe birth without Rouge sacrificing her life.

Additionally, Karl entertained the idea of raising Ace himself. Would Roger's son become a true marine under his guidance? The mere thought of turning the Pirate King's child into a marine was exhilarating.

"Karl, what are you thinking about? Why do you have such a creepy grin on your face?"

Sitting across from him, Rouge shuddered slightly at the sight of his smile. For a moment, she wondered if exposing her identity to him had been a mistake.

"Nothing much, just some amusing thoughts. Now, let's talk about you. Why did you reveal your identity voluntarily? Honestly, if you hadn't stepped forward, I might never have realized you were hiding among the crowd until the investigation concluded."

Karl spread his hands, speaking truthfully.

To ensure her survival, Rouge had perfected her disguise techniques, and Karl's rudimentary Observation Haki wasn't sharp enough to see through her ruse.

Perhaps someone like Garp could discern her true identity, but aside from him, no one else knew what Rouge truly looked like. Her disguise was merely an extra layer of security.

Taking a deep breath, Rouge sipped her tea to moisten her throat before speaking.

"Roger mentioned you to me once. He said you're a good person—stubborn and impulsive at times, but honest and trustworthy. He believed you were a righteous marine worth relying on."

"Heh, that bastard. Was that praise or an insult?"

Karl's mouth twitched. He hadn't expected Roger to describe him this way behind his back. Given Roger's status, earning such an evaluation was no small feat.

"Roger also told me you and he had some history. He said your relationship was neither purely friendly nor adversarial. And he said that if I ever found myself in trouble, I should reveal my identity and seek your help. He assured me you'd assist me."

"Hah, that guy really knew how to use people, didn't he? But tell me, Miss Rouge, did he also mention another person you could trust?"

Seeing Karl's teasing smirk, Rouge nodded slowly, a bitter smile forming on her lips.

"Yes, he said I could also trust Garp, the Hero of the Marines..."

"That sly dog dragged us both into this. But he wasn't wrong. Garp would help you out of sympathy. However, why should I help you? I bet Roger didn't tell you this, but he was present when my childhood village was massacred."

Karl's tone turned cold, his sharp gaze radiating faint killing intent.

Feeling this hostility, Rouge's lips turned pale, and her body trembled uncontrollably. Despite her fear, she instinctively shielded her pregnant belly to protect Ace.

"So, you really didn't know..."

Seeing Rouge's confused and frightened expression, Karl realized Roger had only told her part of the story, leaving out critical details.

Just as Karl was about to press further, laughter echoed from outside.

Both he and Rouge turned to see the visitor: Vice Admiral Garp, dressed in his signature floral shirt, shorts, and sandals.

"Ahahaha! Still as mischievous as ever, scaring a pregnant woman like that! Have you no shame, Karl?"

"You're one to talk about shame, old man. Weren't you planning to save Rouge all along? If you'd told me earlier, we could've worked together and avoided all this hassle."

Karl rolled his eyes at Garp, who merely laughed and scratched his head.

"Haha, how was I supposed to know Roger had roped you into this too?"

"Figures. I thought he'd only approached me, but apparently, he told you as well."

Feigning innocence, Karl acted as though Roger's request was the sole reason he was helping Rouge.

Garp adjusted his clothes and approached Rouge, flashing his trademark grin.

"You must be Portgas D. Rouge?"

"Yes, that's me..."

Seeing Garp, Rouge grew visibly nervous.

"Haha, no need to be so tense! I'm Monkey D. Garp, and I was also entrusted by that scoundrel Roger to look after you and your child! However, the situation outside isn't great. Marines and CP9 agents are still searching for you. I hope you'll cooperate with this kid's plans to ensure your safety!"

Garp wrapped an arm around Karl's neck. Despite Karl's struggles, he couldn't break free from Garp's iron grip. Eventually, Karl gave up, having grown accustomed to such treatment since childhood. It had even strengthened his neck over the years.

Rouge glanced between the two, tears welling in her eyes as she knelt, cradling her belly.

"Thank you both for your kindness. I will never forget your immense generosity." 

~~~~~~~~

Shout out to: Anaral for subscribing on my 10$ Tier!

Support me on patreon if you want more chapters, there are 50+ advanced chapters over there!

[email protected]/Madbot635