Chereads / One Piece AU: The Gamer / Chapter 2 - Chapter 2

Chapter 2 - Chapter 2

Title at the end.

===============

Oda's masterful depiction of Robin's beauty in the manga had not done justice to the captivating presence that now stood before me. The reality of her striking features and the depth of her gaze were truly mesmerizing, and I found myself utterly spellbound.

As our eyes met, I watched as Nico Robin's expression shifted ever so slightly. A flicker of trepidation passed across her features, betraying a hint of nervousness beneath her calm exterior. Yet, despite the subtle tension, Robin maintained her composure, offering me a polite, if somewhat forced, smile. It was clear she was guarded, her years of experience and the burdens she had borne etched into the depths of her gaze. I could sense the wariness within her, the caution of a woman who had learned the hard way to be wary of Others. But there was also an undeniable intelligence and strength that radiated from her, a quiet confidence that belied her unease.

"Oh, hello there," Nico Robin greeted me, her voice betraying only the slightest hint of unease. Despite the subtle trembling of her hands, she maintained a calm and collected demeanor, her expression mirroring the poise of her alter ego, Miss All Sunday.

[SKILL UNLOCKED]

[ Skill Name: Observation

Description: Observation represents a character's keen awareness, attention to detail, and ability to notice subtle clues or changes in their surroundings. Characters proficient in Observation possess a heightened perception, allowing them to spot hidden threats, identify potential dangers, and uncover hidden objects or secrets. This skill encompasses not only visual observation but also auditory and olfactory awareness, making it a versatile tool for gathering information and staying alert in various situations. ]

[DING!]

[YOU HAVE LEVELED UP!]

[

Character Name: Zephyr Stormborn

Class: NONE

Race: Human

Level: 2 (Island Boi)

Affiliations: NONE

Devil Fruit: NONE

Haki: NONE

Skills: Theif LVL 1, Observation LVL 1

 

Ability Scores:

Strength: 15

Dexterity: 15

Constitution: 16

Intelligence: 13

Wisdom: 13

Charisma: 12

]

[DING!]

[YOU HAVE UNLOCKED THE Inventory FUNCTION]

[YOU HAVE GAINED 10,000 BELLI]

After quickly reading through the system notifications, I was able to regain a bit of composure. Straightening myself up, I brandished the most dashing smile I could muster and introduced myself.

"Hello, my apologies miss. I was just momentarily stunned by your beauty. My name is Stormborn. Zephyr D. Stormborn."

"Miss All Sunday" She replies. 

I tried to maintain a confident yet charming demeanor, hoping to make a good first impression despite my initial flustered state. I was hoping that my increased charisma stat would get me in her good books.

she blushed a lot when I complimented her but there is still reluctance in her response.

"Well, I am not used to these kinds of compliments, thank you, Sir," she says.

"Really?" I say with exaggerated astonishment.

"I pity the men around you, they must all be blind!"

"Well, I suppose my beauty has caused some jealousy but I do not understand why you must pity them," she says trying to hide her blush even further. I can tell from her body movements she is trying hard to keep up her fake persona. If I push her any further she might break and I might miss any chance of wooing her

[DING!]

[NEW QUEST UNLOCKED!]

["Woo The Demon Flower"]

[Description:

Nico Robin, the brilliant archaeologist and member of the Baroque Works organization, has caught your eye. Her intelligence, poise, and mysterious aura have left you utterly captivated. Now, you must embark on a quest to win her affection and forge a deep, lasting connection.

Objectives:

Gather information about Robin's interests, hobbies, and preferences through discreet observation and subtle inquiries.

Devise a series of thoughtful gifts, experiences, or conversations that will demonstrate your understanding and appreciation of who she is.

Approach Robin with genuine respect, patience, and a genuine desire to connect, rather than superficial charm or aggression.

Engage in meaningful discussions that showcase your own intellect, depth of character, and shared values.

Gradually build trust and rapport, allowing a genuine bond to form between you and Robin.

Rewards:

Gaining the affection and trust of Nico Robin, a woman of remarkable intelligence and strength of character.

Potential for a deep, fulfilling romantic relationship with Robin, who can offer unparalleled companionship and intellectual stimulation.

Access to Robin's extensive knowledge and connections could open up new avenues for adventure, discovery, and personal growth.

Failure Conditions:

Approaching Robin with disrespect, arrogance, or a lack of genuine interest in her as a person.

Failing to demonstrate genuine care, understanding, and a willingness to take the time to build a meaningful connection.

Pushing too hard or too fast, causes Robin to withdraw and become distrustful.

Engaging in deception or manipulation in an attempt to win Robin's affection.

Neglecting to consider Robin's desires, boundaries, and autonomy throughout the process.

Embark on this quest with patience, empathy, and a sincere desire to forge a deep, lasting bond with Nico Robin. The rewards of success could be truly extraordinary.

Current progress: 5%]

After quickly reading through the quest text and grasping the importance of the current situation, I realized I should not rush things and methodically approach this task. I know that more than anything, Nico Robin values her space and independence, and I don't want to come across as intrusive or ruin the progress I've made so far.

Recognizing the need to play the long game, I step back a bit while saying casually,

"It was just a joke, Miss. I don't mean anything by it - I just have an appreciation for dark humor."

she tries to stay composed but I can clearly see that she is very nervous.

she takes a deep breath before responding to your statement

"Oh, I see...that's an interesting and unique trait to have. But, can I ask you something, sir?"

"Sure" I replied.

"Have you heard the name Nico-Robin before?"

Now this throws me into a loop. I have to think really carefully about what I say here. This could be the make or break of our future relationship.

Taking a moment to carefully consider my response, I finally say, "I've heard the name before as well." I pause, then continue, "But I also know that the World Government is full of shit. What I can say is that she was, more than likely, a victim of one of their grander schemes. I can't even imagine what a young girl like that would have to go through."

["Woo The Demon Flower"]

[Progress: 7%]

I smile internally. "well this is definitely the right way to go about things," I say to myself.

"Really, you know that?..... I see that you know about the world government's schemes too..."

she says that last sentence while looking at me with a calm yet careful gaze, it's like she is reading me.

With a warm smile, I say, "Well, I'll let you know, Miss All Sunday, that there are two things I enjoy most in the world: a good book and some good humor."

However, I then continue in a more stoic tone,

"When you read a lot, you become curious, and when you're curious enough, you start to wonder about the things around you. That leads you to history, and when you read enough history, you come into contact with modern politics. But there was always something that bothered me - the discrepancy between what is publicly available about history and what I then learned about our modern politics."

"Ah I see, you mean the fact that the world government hides important historical facts from people, isn't it?"

Smart girl. She is catching on and I couldn't help but tease her a bit more.

"Beautiful and smart too?" I tease but I don't give her a chance to respond and continue.

"Yes, when reading what is publicly available you come to a very peculiar conclusion. There is history that is unaccounted for."

she blushes a little when you call her both beautiful and smart, she nods her head in agreement with your statement about history that is unaccounted for

"Yes, the world government hides a lot of information about the past from people. But what do you mean when you say there is history that is unaccounted for?"

I have her, I think to myself. Although I do feel a little bad because I have the advantage of knowing her character. But then again she is also keeping secrets from me as well. Now is the time for me to cast my rod and see if she will bite.

"Miss All Sunday, I do appreciate our conversation. It isn't every day I find a kindred spirit with a love for history, but we just met and to put it frankly..."

I look at the energetic clerk who has been watching us the entire time. she gives us an awkward smile and looks away. Robin notices as well catching my meaning. 

"I'll tell you what. If you would like, meet me at the Gol D bar at 7 tonight. There we can have a bit more privacy." I say with a smile.

"Well, that sounds very good. I'll see you at seven"

"Then it's a date, Miss All Sunday," I say with a warm smile. "I'll leave you for now, as I don't want to take up any more of your time." With a polite nod, I make my way back to browsing the shelves of the Poneglyph Pavilion, giving Robin the space she deserves. She nods her head in agreement while trying to contain her excitement about this meeting but my observation skill sees through it

[DING!]

[Observation Skill > LVL 2]

[NEW SKILL UNLOCKED]

[ Charm

Description: Charm represents a character's ability to interact persuasively and charmingly with others, particularly in social situations where charisma and finesse are crucial. Characters proficient in Charm possess a natural magnetism and charisma that allows them to win over hearts, sway opinions, and build rapport with ease. This skill encompasses not only romantic flirting but also general social grace and the ability to navigate social hierarchies effectively.

Examples of Usage:

Flirting with a potential romantic interest to win their affection.

Convincing a skeptical NPC to trust or help the character.

Negotiating with merchants for better prices or deals.

Performing on stage or entertaining a crowd with charisma and wit.

Calming tensions or diffusing conflicts through diplomatic conversation.

Gaining information by charming or seducing an informant.

Mechanics: When a character wishes to use their Charm skill. The character's proficiency bonus is added if they are proficient in Charm. Factors such as the target's disposition, the character's approach, and the social context may influence the DC (Difficulty Class) of the check. A successful Charm check can result in the target being swayed by the character's charisma, granting favors, information, or even developing romantic interest. However, failure may result in the target remaining unmoved or potentially becoming more cautious or suspicious of the character's intentions.

]

[+1 INT]

[+1 CHAR]

["Woo The Demon Flower"]

[Progress: 15%]

 leave Robin to her own devices and return to browsing the bookshelves, giving her the space and privacy she deserves. I notice her exchanging a few short words with the clerk before she then leaves the establishment. After browsing for about half an hour, I too decided to take my leave, much to the disappointment of the energetic clerk who had been hoping to make a sale. Little does she know I have a few books hidden in my inventory.

[Inventory: 5/20]

[DING!]

[Slight of Hand LVL 1> 2]

"Nami ain't got shit on me"