Pirate King or Shichibukai, Zoro would rather have his captain at arms length than anywhere else. But calls from DenDens are the next best thing. [ZoLu shounen ai]
When some performing swordsmen gain Luffy's attention, Zoro returns to an old practice he once disliked, to prove to his captain he's the better swordsman. [ZoLu shounen ai]
The crew helps Luffy in a difficult situation.
Immediately pre-series. Shanks/Beckman (mild) for Kujakku, Christmas 2004.