"My name is Carina, and I'm also from East Blue," she introduced herself, her gaze locked onto Ren, a man of similar age but exuding extraordinary power.
Learning that Ren had parted ways with the Straw Hat Crew, Carina expressed gratitude, saying, "Thank you for your help earlier. Without you, I might have been caught by those guys. Please, don't just stand there. Have a seat and relax."
Curiosity about the sudden departure of the Straw Hat Pirates' vice-captain piqued Carina's interest. "By the way," she continued, "speaking of the Straw Hat Pirates, I'm an old friend of Naomi, their navigator."
"Really? You and Nami are friends?" Ren inquired as he took a seat. Carina's revelation didn't come as a surprise to him; he was aware of the connection between Carina and Nami.
"Of course! I once saved her life, but it's been a while since I last saw her," Carina replied with a playful wink. She and Naomi shared a history of surviving as young thieves on the sea, often collaborating on heists. A few years ago, they had encountered a treasure hunter who had taken Nami hostage. To save Nami's life, Carina had taken the treasure and fled. She often wondered if Nami still harbored resentment toward her.
As they continued their conversation, time passed, and the small sailing boat made slow progress. Carina's charismatic and witty communication skills kept them engaged.
"Tsk, tsk, you've experienced some truly amazing adventures," Carina marveled as Ren recounted the recent exploits of the Straw Hat Pirates. She was especially fascinated by the mention of Sky Island and the legendary Golden Land. "I didn't expect that there are islands 10,000 meters high in the sky. It's incredible," she said with excitement. "Is the legendary Golden Land real? I thought it was just a rumor."
Carina, known as the "Phantom Thief," shared Nami's enthusiasm for treasure hunting. Her eyes gleamed with avarice at the mention of the golden bell in Ren's story. She even contemplated stealing it.
"If you're thinking of stealing that golden bell, I'd advise against it," Ren cautioned. "It has become a sacred relic for the Skypieans. The Shandia tribe, in particular, holds it in great reverence."
Carina, however, couldn't resist playing coy. She pretended to be captivated by Ren's adventures and complimented him on his strength. "You easily defeated a formidable opponent like Enel. That's quite impressive."
Ren waved off her praise, downplaying his victory. He explained that his ability to defeat Enel, a Logia-type Thunder Fruit user, was partly due to his mastery of Armament Haki, as well as his unique Lunaria tribe heritage.
Carina was inquisitive about Ren's plans. "Are you not planning to rejoin the Straw Hat Pirates?" she asked, her curiosity evident.
Before Ren could respond, a cannonball suddenly hurtled towards them from a distance, causing a massive splash in the sea. Their small sailing boat swayed from the impact.
Ren immediately took out a monocular telescope, and Carina's eyes widened in alarm as they observed a Marine fleet approaching. The warships formed a V-shaped formation and were closing in on them.
Carina's anxiety grew, and she asked Ren what they should do. She knew that being seen with the notorious "Blood Prison" of the Straw Hat Pirates could lead to trouble for her.
Ren, however, remained calm. "It appears that they weren't initially after me. They were likely pursuing the Tiger Shark Pirates I already dealt with. They only noticed us when they launched the bombardment."
Carina was relieved but still worried about their situation. She looked at Ren with a hopeful expression, seeking guidance.
Ren had an idea. "You could pretend to be my hostage," he suggested. He explained that, if they were found with him, Marines might consider her an ally and issue a warrant for her arrest.
Carina agreed to the plan, and with Ren's approval, she removed her felt hat, tousled her purple hair, and tore her jacket, revealing a stunning ensemble beneath. She had transformed her appearance entirely.
"When the Marines arrive, just leave me behind and make your escape," she said confidently.