One Piece: Start by Saving Roger, I Was Invited to Join the Crew

Seeing the touching reunion between Roger and Rogue, Reid couldn't help but feel moved.

Just then, a card floated before his eyes, and the system's voice rang out:

[Portgas D. Rouge: Wife of Gol D. Roger. Currently pregnant. Level: 1]

"Rouge looks even more beautiful in person. She's perfect for Roger. Ah, those are freckles, not pockmarks. And the guy beside her…"

Reid glanced at the blue-haired man standing next to Rouge.

[Elio: Crew member of the Roger Pirates. Traits: Likes colorful shirts and round hats. Level: 2]

"Seems like he doesn't have any powers either. Same as the ship's doctor."

Nearby, Shanks and Bucky watched the heartfelt scene with smiles.

"This... is what family looks like," Shanks murmured.

Bucky, hearing this, suddenly felt a wave of longing.

"I, Bucky, will have my own family one day! Lots of kids!"

Then Shanks stepped forward to speak with Rouge.

"Are you really Captain Roger's wife?"

Rouge chuckled gently. "Yes, I am. And you are?"

"M-my name is Shanks. I'm part of the Roger Pirates…"

Shanks turned red at the sound of her soft voice.

"That's wonderful," Rouge replied with a warm smile.

Shanks looked flustered, unused to such a gentle tone.

Bucky followed shyly. "H-hello, Rogue. I'm Bucky."

"Little Bucky? You're with Roger too?"

Bucky nodded, blushing.

With a tender smile, Rouge placed a hand on both their heads.

"You're all part of the family now."

Shanks smirked slightly while Bucky touched his red nose, enjoying the warmth of her words.

Rouge turned her gaze to Roger, eyes full of emotion.

"Roger... I thought I'd never see you again."

She wiped her tears away.

"Look at me—I'm back safe and sound," Roger replied with a grin.

"But… your illness—didn't you say…"

"It's improved a little. We'll talk later. The Navy's on their way. We have to move fast."

Roger's tone grew serious. He was determined to protect Rouge and their unborn child.

"I'll contact Rayleigh and the others now," said Elio.

"Good. You've done well."

"Of course! I'm just doing what the captain asked."

Roger clapped him on the shoulder. "Tell Rayleigh to bring the Oro Jackson. Once we're at sea, we're safe."

Elio pulled out a Den Den Mushi (transponder snail).

Reid's eyes lit up with curiosity.

"So that's a phone snail… it really looks alive. I wonder what it feels like to hold one."

Elio dialed the number.

"Bururururu… click."

A sleepy voice came through. "Hello, Rayleigh speaking."

"Rayleigh, it's Elio. Captain Roger is safe!"

"I figured… I'm tracking his Vivre Card. Where are you?"

"We're on Baterilla Island, South Blue. Roger and his wife are both here. Bring the Jackson, and contact everyone else."

"Wait—did you say Roger has a wife?"

Rayleigh nearly dropped his glasses in shock.

"Hehe, yeah. Her name's Rouge. She's beautiful and incredibly kind."

Rouge blushed and turned away, flustered.

Roger laughed heartily and took the snail.

"Hear that, Rayleigh? You always said I'd die single—look at me now!"

"You rascal."

Rayleigh smirked on the other end, both surprised and pleased.

"Oh, and Rouge's pregnant too. A few more months to go."

"What?! When did that happen?"

Roger laughed again. "Back when I got off the ship and visited Baterilla. That's when we met."

Rouge rolled her eyes. "Roger, there's no time—focus."

"Ah, right."

Rayleigh's voice turned serious again.

"Roger, the Navy has issued a Buster Call. They must know you're here."

"I figured. Rayleigh, how fast can you get here? If it takes too long, I'll take Rouge and go first."

"The Oro Jackson is fast. That's all I'll say."

"Ha! Don't tell me it's been upgraded with Sea King parts?"

"Maybe. Stay safe. I've already contacted the others."

"Good. I can always count on you."

After hanging up, Roger turned to the group.

"The Navy will have this whole area under surveillance. We'll wait for the rest of the crew to arrive—then, Reid, it's your time to shine."

"Huh?" Reid was startled. "No way, Brother Roger… I'm not that capable."

"Hahaha! Don't be modest. You're our ace this time—we're counting on you."

"Oh! You meant my healing abilities?"

Roger nodded firmly. "Yes. With your help, we can treat any wounded. Rayleigh and I can take care of the rest."

"You're worried about collateral damage…"

Realizing this, Reid pounded his chest confidently. "Alright! I'll handle the healing. Leave it to me!"

"Hahaha! That's the spirit."

Rouge and Elio were a bit confused.

"Roger, who's this?"

"Oh right, I forgot to introduce him. This is Reid, my sworn brother. His healing powers are top-notch. With him around, the Navy won't know what hit them."

Reid flushed with embarrassment but quickly stepped forward.

"Nice to meet you, Sister-in-law Rouge. I'm Reid."

"Hello, Reid. Thank you for helping Roger."

Rouge bowed gratefully. Reid hurried forward to stop her.

"Hahaha, you deserve her gratitude, Reid. Without you, I would've lost both her and Ace," Roger said, clapping him on the shoulder.

Shanks' jaw dropped. "Reid has such amazing power…?"

No wonder Captain Roger likes him so much. I need to stay close to this guy!

Bucky was stunned too, quickly making plans of his own.

Elio stepped forward with a grin and extended his hand. "Nice to meet you, Reid. I'm Elio."

Reid shook his hand. "Brother Elio, I've heard a lot about you. You're even more impressive in person."

"Hehehe~" Rouge giggled behind her hand at Reid's odd choice of words.

"Hahaha! Brother Reid, since when were you so charming?" Roger joked.

"Yeah, Reid—save the flattery for Roger. He's the one who smokes and drinks nonstop!" Elio teased, puffing his cigarette.

"Uh… haha…" Reid scratched his head awkwardly and quickly changed the subject.

"Anyway, maybe we should calm the residents. They're probably scared stiff."

"Good point. I'll handle it," said Elio. "I know some of the locals."

"Alright, Elio—go ahead," Roger nodded.

"On it, Captain!"

With that, Elio jogged off, phone snail in hand.