For the next few years, the Hunter Pirates sailed from island to island, embracing the life of explorers rather than outlaws. They avoided drawing unnecessary attention to themselves, their reputation as the "dead" Hunter Twins serving as a convenient cover to evade Marine scrutiny. The crew's days were filled with adventure, camaraderie, and relentless training to hone their abilities.
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Snippets of Their Adventures
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The Hunter Pirates arrived at an island shrouded in perpetual snowstorms. The local villagers spoke of a mysterious labyrinth that appeared during the winter solstice, said to contain ancient treasures. Intrigued, the crew ventured into the icy maze.
Lila led the way, her spear cutting through frozen obstacles. "I'm telling you, this treasure better be worth it," she muttered, her breath visible in the cold air.
Ronin smirked, sword at the ready. "If it's not, at least we'll get a good workout."
Te used his Nen to sense the labyrinth's layout, guiding them through traps, while Koby marveled at the ancient mechanisms they encountered. Eventually, they reached the heart of the maze, finding a strange relic—a small gemstone that radiated warmth. Though they left the treasure with the villagers, the experience left them invigorated, their teamwork sharpened.
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In the West Blue, the crew stumbled upon an island celebrating the "Festival of Giants." To their surprise, they found themselves participating in a series of competitive games alongside actual giants.
Lila dominated the spear-throwing competition, her accuracy leaving even the giants in awe. "Size doesn't matter when you've got skill," she boasted, grinning.
Ronin, meanwhile, took on a wrestling giant in a test of strength. Although the match ended in a draw, the respect he earned from the crowd was palpable.
Te and Koby, not to be outdone, participated in a crafting contest. Using their unique abilities, they built a towering ice sculpture of a Sea King, winning the admiration of the islanders.
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The crew's journey took them to a mysterious island cloaked in eternal darkness. The locals lived in fear of a creature they called the "Shadow Beast," which hunted anyone who ventured too far from the village.
Determined to help, the Hunter Pirates set a trap for the beast. Koby's engineering mind devised a light-emitting device, while Te used his Nen to lure the creature into their ambush. The beast turned out to be a massive bat, which Lila and Ronin subdued together in a perfectly synchronized attack.
Afterward, the villagers, grateful for their bravery, offered them a feast. The crew left the island with full bellies and lighter hearts, ready for their next adventure.
The crew returned to the East Blue, where they spent their time visiting smaller, peaceful islands. They enjoyed the simple pleasures of life—fishing, stargazing, and training by the beach.
One day, while sparring on a deserted island, Ronin finally voiced what had been on his mind for weeks. "I think it's time Lila and I set out on our own."
Lila, seated nearby, nodded. "We've seen so much of the world with you guys, but now we want to see how far we can go on our own strength."
Te, leaning against a tree, gave them a rare serious nod. "If that's what you want, we won't stop you. But you better keep up with your training."
Koby added, "And don't get yourselves killed. The Grand Line isn't kind to the unprepared."
The four shared a quiet moment, the bond they had forged over years of adventure unspoken but deeply felt. The next morning, Lila and Ronin departed on a smaller ship, waving goodbye as they set sail for the Grand Line.
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With Lila and Ronin gone, Te and Koby decided to stay in the East Blue. They continued their training, perfecting their techniques and refining their powers. The quiet seas of the East offered them a rare sense of peace, though both knew it wouldn't last forever.
Their adventures, though less chaotic, were far from over. As they watched the horizon, Te smirked. "You think they'll be okay out there?"
Koby crossed his arms, his gaze steady. "They'll be fine. And when the time comes, we'll meet again—stronger than ever."
And so, the Hunter Pirates continued their journey, two brothers charting their course, waiting for the moment when their paths would cross with their friends once more.
With their own adventures finally over, it was time to join Luffy and the strawhats. Next stop Shell Island.