The Sunny stopped dead in the water. An eerie silence came with the mist that flowed over the railing. "What's going on?", asked Usopp nervously. "Why are we stopped?", added Chopper. Glancing up at the sails, Nami said, "The wind died down." "Please don't say 'died'...", said Usopp. "Yeah! This is creepy!", chimed Chopper.
Sanji pranced over. "Don't worry, Nami-san! I'll protect you!", he exclaimed. "What about us?!", asked Usopp, annoyed. "You're on your own", replied Sanji flatly.
Luffy came on deck with Brook in tow. Looking around, the captain asked, "Did we drop anchor?" "The wind just stopped", replied Nami. Usopp watched the clouds drift across the moon. He turned at a sound and peered overboard. They were not alone. Sanji scanned for the source of the creaking noise. Peeking over the railing, Chopper asked, "What is it?". "Sounds like another ship", said Sanji. They looked around in confusion as a voice sprang from the darkness. It was beautiful and belted out a sad tune. "That voice...", said Brook to himself. He silently slipped into the shadows.
Glancing about, Robin ventured, "I wonder if it's them." Turning, Nami asked, "Them?". "Who?", added Luffy. The voice stopped and a trio of strangers suddenly appeared on board. "Us", said a woman perched on the railing. Everyone turned toward the voice. A man and young woman stood on either side of the person who had spoken.
"Hello, Mugiwara", said the woman, approaching Luffy. "Which one do I get to play with?", taunted the girl. "Who are you?", interjected Sanji. "Luffy, that's Bartlett, the Siren", supplied Robin. Luffy lilted his head. "Bartlett? Never heard of you", he stated. Nearing him, Bartlett said, "That's all right. I've heard of you." Encircling him, she added, "Perhaps we'll become fast friends." She froze as a cool point pressed against her back. "Who are you supposed to be?", demanded Zoro. She turned with a coy smile and swatted the blade away like a toy. Bartlett: "Captain Bartlett Rosario, the Siren, of the Harlot pirates", she answered. Waving back toward her group, she added, "These are my cohorts, Bosc and Anjou." "The Harlot pirates?", asked Usopp, still unsure.
They began to look the trio over and noticed their lavish clothing. Bartlett was clad in a deep purple crushed velvet gown that was low-cut and clung to her every curve. Her long pink hair hung in her eyes and cascaded down her spine. The girl was about fourteen and dressed in ill-fitting garments. She sat with a mischievous grin amid her childish face, framed by her pale blue hair tied in looped pigtails. The man was older than his captain and clad in classical garb, fully vested and caped. He had a perpetual sneer set against his dark azure locks that draped over his shoulders. Leaning into Luffy, Bartlett said, "Oh yes, but don't worry. We're quite friendly." She winked as she spoke. "The Siren? You mean you're the one that killed all those guys?", inquired Sanji. Bartlett nodded toward Bosc. "That was my dear brother. He called them 'mercy killings'", she said.
"But the legend of the Siren's been around for decades!", exclaimed Nami.
Bartlett stalked toward Sanji. Looking him up and down, she taunted, "Tall and blonde. Just up your alley, eh, Anjou?" "Definitely", replied the girl, licking her lips.
He smiled nervously at the attention. She giggled and playfully waved her fingers. Blowing him a kiss, she teased, "So cute." Luffy looked toward the group, unsure of their intentions. "What do you want?", he asked. "I always pay visits to the ships I pass... Simply put, I'll borrow a man or two and then send you on your way", she replied. "That's crazy!", said Nami. Bartlett chuckled. "You're cute. I might make room for you aboard my ship if you're interested in having some fun", she teased. "What if we refuse?", said Zoro, unamused. Her demeanor shifted. "Oh, I wouldn't do that", scoffed Bosc. "Why not?", asked Luffy. "We'll sink you", stated Anjou with a grin. "Simple pleasures are hardly a price to pay for safe passage, don't you think?", taunted Bosc. "Bosc is right. What's a little fun among fellow pirates, hmm?", said Bartlett. Eying Nami, Bosc said, "I usually watch the other ship while my captain...entertains."
Sanji glared and stepped between them. By this time, Franky had come up and observed the conversation. Robin whispered, "Luffy, I've heard a lot about these people. It's best if we just go along with it for now." Looking them over, Franky stated, "We can take 'em, no problem." Bosc got an eerie smile; He was obviously amused by the thought. "Can't I kill just one, Bartlett? You never let me have fun anymore", he teased. "No", she stated. Looking everyone over, he eyes settled on Luffy. "Ah, the infamous captain. So strong, so bold, so...stretchy", she teased, " That could be fun." Luffy sent her a funny look while Nami blushed. These people were crazy. Circling Zoro, the Harlot captain added, "Ah, the swordsman. Deadly aim...I wonder just how well you handle your blade." She winked at his unamused glare as she walked toward Sanji. "Then again, kitchen men have more...flavor. Black Leg, isn't it?", she inquired. "I'd like a taste", said Anjou flirtatiously.
Brook stayed hidden. That was a voice he hadn't heard in long time. "Get off my ship", said Luffy tensed. Bosc had slipped behind everyone and appeared just behind Robin. Lifting her hand, he said, "Now here's a tasty morsel." Bartlett smiled at her brother. Her teeth glinted in the moonlight. "Get off my ship", repeated Luffy. "Uh oh...", chimed Anjou childishly. Bartlett's smile faded as she stalked toward Luffy. "A word, Captain?", she said briskly. After a nod, the two went into the cabin and spoke for several minutes. When they emerged, Bartlett strolled passed everyone as if to return to her ship. A moment later, Luffy staggered out looking rather haggard with a slight trickle of blood running down his shoulder.
"Straw-Hat?!", said Franky. "Quiet, cyborg. I have no interest in modified equipment", said Bartlett. He was ready to retort when Luffy shot him a look to keep quiet.
Luffy glared after her. "Don't forget our deal", he said. Bartlett grinned. "Wouldn't dream of it. Come along, you two", she said. She stopped dead in her tracks and slowly looked back as if she had suddenly remembered something important. "I thought there were nine of you, Straw-Hat...", she ventured. "What of it?", asked Luffy. Bartlett grinned toward the shadows. "I'd like to meet the one hiding over there", she said with a hint of curiosity. Everyone looked at Usopp. "What?! I'm right here!", he exclaimed.
Chopper surveyed the faces present. "You mean Brook?", he asked. Bartlett paled and Bosc shifted uneasily. "It couldn't possibly be... Let's go back, Bartlett", demanded Bosc. She shot him a harsh look. "Not yet", she replied stubbornly. She peered into the darkness cautiously. A form started to emerge. Brook sighed with nostalgia. "Fifty years and you've barely changed", he said. "Fifty?!", cried Luffy. "She can't be any older than her late twenties!", said Usopp. "She's a vampire", explained Bosc with an evil grin. Ducking behind Zoro, Chopper repeated, "Vampire?!". "That's just a myth", said Zoro coolly. "So were zombies...until we met them", said Nami uneasily.
Bartlett froze with a unreadable expression upon her face. Slowly reaching out a hand, she ventured, "Brook?...Is that really you?". He took a deep breath and stepped forward. "It's been a long time", he said. Bosc laughed loudly. "What happened to you?! So much for the yomi yomi man", he teased. Anjou peeked around the crowd to see what the fuss was about. "Bosc! Don't laugh", scolded Bartlett. Bosc tried to stifle himself. "I'm sorry, Sis. It's just so funny", he sniggered. She pulled her outstretched hand back in.
"It isn't funny...but it does explain things", she said somberly. "Sorry I'm so late", said Brook apologetically. Bartlett forced a small grin. "Better late than never, I suppose", she replied. Anjou crept up behind her and grasped her arm. "Let's go. I'm bored!", she demanded. Bartlett slowly turned and walked back toward her brother. Stopping only once, just near the edge of the Sunny, she smiled sadly across her shoulder. "Good to see you again", she said.
The trio vanished. Within minutes, the breeze returned and the Sunny lurched forward. "What was that about?", asked Zoro. Luffy turned toward Brook. "You know her?", asked Luffy. "I used to", replied Brook distantly. "You all right?", inquired Sanji with a worried glance to his captain. "Yeah", he passed it off. Robin touched Brook's shoulder. "What about you? You seem...shaken", she ventured. He looked at the empty spot where the trio had stood. "I'll be practicing below if anyone needs me", he said.
He quietly and slowly left. After while, sounds from a sad violin wafted across the deck.
Zoro leaned on the railing. "So what happened?", he asked. "They won't bother us anymore", stated Luffy. Chopper ran over. "Luffy, you look terrible! Are you feeling okay?", he fussed. Luffy grinned wanly. "I could use some meat", he said. Sanji smirked and headed toward the kitchen. Nami looked her captain over. "What'd she do to you?", she inquired. "Would you believe she was just really boring?", asked Luffy. "Boring is one thing, but you look sapped", stated Usopp. Intervening, Robin said, "He said he's fine. Let's take his word for it."
After some grumbling, most of the crew went back to their own devices. Zoro stared for a moment longer, then shrugged it off. It took some coaxing, but Chopper let him be after Sanji had brought him some food. No one understood exactly what had happened, but they didn't ask. Nami kept a close eye on Luffy and Robin. "You likely saved us all some trouble back there. I've heard some wild tales about that crew", said Robin. Luffy shrugged and continued eating. Luffy set his last plate aside. "Ah! That's better!", he exclaimed, beaming, "Thanks, Sanji." Sanji cleared the dishes. "No problem. What'd she say, anyway?", he asked. Everyone paused and glanced to see if he would respond.
Luffy relaxed and said, "She said there was an *amazing* island up ahead, but not to go to it." "But the log pose has to reset", interjected Nami. "Yeah, but she said to stay offshore", he replied. Lighting a smoke, Sanji asked, "Did she say why?". "I'm sure there's a good reason", said Robin. "I still think we should go", said Luffy. "Why am I not surprised?", asked Nami sarcastically.
Bosc landed gracefully on deck, his heavy cape settling around him. Backing up in surprise, Usopp asked, "Where'd you come from?!". He simply smirked in response.
Sanji stepped in front of Nami. "What do you want?", he sneered. "You really shouldn't go, you know", chided Bosc. "Is it forbidden or something?", ventured Nami. "A private island?", asked Usopp. "Oh, it's a veritable paradise, but...it'll consume you", taunted Bosc, rising. Luffy looked around the deck. "Where'd you come from just now?", he asked. "That isn't important", replied Bosc innocently. "What do you mean, 'it'll consume us'?", demanded Sanji. "Simply that. Heaven can wait, my friends. Don't be sucked into a false one", said Bosc. "What's on the island? Is it dangerous?", asked Luffy, getting excited. "You could say that...But I've already said too much", replied Bosc. Turning with a curt wave, he added, "Good luck."
He leapt overboard and Nami raced over when no splash was heard. She looked, but no ripples or boat were present. Sanji peered into the murk. "Where'd he go?", he asked. "I don't know. He's just...gone", said Nami. "Somebody find Brook. I gotta ask him some things", ordered the captain. Shrugging it off, they went on about their business.
A few minutes later, Brook silently appeared. Luffy leaned his elbows onto the railing. "You know anything about where we're headed?", he asked. "The island? Afraid not. Just the pirates...Interesting bunch.", replied Brook reminiscently. "Interesting?!", scoffed Nami. "They've been around quite some time", said Robin. "She couldn't really have sunken the Sunny, though, right?", asked Nami. Robin and Luffy exchanged looks. "...Right?", she repeated. Changing the subject, Robin said, "You look like you're feeling much better, Captain." Luffy grinned. "Yeah. I told you I just needed to eat", he said carefree. Nami sighed in defeat, knowing that she wasn't getting any information. Taking the cue from the silence, the girls left Luffy and Brook alone to talk.
"You okay?", asked the captain. "I'm not the one that was bitten", replied Brook knowingly. "That's not what I asked", said Luffy. Brook leaned beside his captain. He sighed with distant memories. "I was her first, you know", he started. "I didn't need to know that", said Luffy flatly. Brook chuckled. "The first person she bit, I mean", he corrected. "Oh... I guess that's different", said Luffy. "Do you think Robin would enlighten me as to what I've missed these past fifty years? Rosario...Bartlett, I mean...She's - ...", trailed the musician. "Just go ask her. I'm sure she'll tell you anything you wanna know", replied Luffy. Brook nodded silently and wandered off, passing Zoro on the way. "So, she really is a vampire?", asked the first mate. Luffy shrugged. "What's a little blood if it protects my nakama?", he said.
Later in the night, Brook was on lookout duty. Usopp couldn't sleep and wandered out for some fresh air. "Sleep walking?", asked Brook. Usopp yawned wide. "Hardly. I couldn't get a wink", he said. It grew quiet as the two leaned on the banister and watched the moon's reflection in the sea. "Don't let it bother you", said Brook. Usopp glanced over. "Let what bother me?", he asked. "Bartlett", replied Brook. Usopp shifted uneasily. "Did she really, you know, bite Luffy?", he inquired. "I'd imagine so", answered Brook. "He won't turn into one, too, will he?", asked Usopp. Brook laughed, "Yo-ho-ho-ho-ho!". "No, he's quite safe", he said. Usopp sighed. "So many crazy things in this world are piled into the Grand Line...Sea monsters, devil fruits, zombies, and now vampires...What's next?" Brook thought it best not to add the missing items to the list.
"So, you knew her when you were still alive?", inquired Usopp. "Things were different then. She was more...innocent", said Brook. Usopp held his tongue on that comment. Thinking back, Brook said, "She bit me once, you know." His crew mate stood quietly and listened. "Twice, actually", he corrected himself. Gazing up to the heavens, he said, "She was once a very nice girl." "She was just a normal person back then?", asked Usopp. "I wouldn't say that," replied his friend. Returning to a serious tone, he said, "She was scared when I met her. Young, frail, and unsure of who she was. She'd just learned her identity back then."
Usopp let the silence drift between them before trying to lighten the mood. "How does one turn into a vampire, anyway?", he asked nervously. Brook shook his head. "She was born that way", he said. "Sounds like you were pretty close", ventured Usopp. "You could say that", said Brook distantly.
Sanji staggered on deck. "All right, Brook. It's your turn to rest...Usopp, what're you doing out here?", he said. "Just getting some fresh air, but I think I'll turn in now", replied Usopp. He waved Usopp off and watched Brook linger in the moment. "You can go now, you know", said Sanji. Snapping out of it, Brook said, "Oh! Of course". "Good night", he added as he headed off.
The Sunny sailed peacefully as dawn broke along the shore of a new island. The crew stood enraptured in the beauty of what they saw. Emerald willows wafted in the breeze and the delta they approached trickled crystal waters into the sea from purple peaks inland. Snow tipped the higher mountains, blending with surreal pink clouds that encircled the island. "It's beautiful", said Nami, breathlessly. Robin smiled serenely. "Yes. I wonder what they call this place", she said. Luffy leaned over the railing in excitement. "Look at that!", he exclaimed. Everyone followed his pointing finger to an image they couldn't believe. Sanji rubbed his eye. "Was that an angel?", he asked.
Usopp and Chopper came on deck to see what the commotion was about. Surveying the idyllic scenery, Usopp said, "We died, didn't we?". "You mean we're in Heaven?!", panicked Chopper. "We're not dead", replied Nami. They sighed in relief. "Look at those clouds!", said Chopper with glee. "Yeah, it's just like Drum Island", said Usopp with a grin. Chopper nodded in agreement as another form plummeted from the wispy pink fluff and arced back up. Luffy pointed once more. "There's another one!", he cried. Zoro hazily stumbled over. He yawned, "What's all the fuss about?". "It kinda reminds me of Angel Island, back in Skypeia", said Usopp. Taking a drag, Sanji added, "It's more colorful here." "Let's land! I wanna see who those people were", said Luffy with a grin.
As if beckoned by his words, a man swooped in and landed on the bow of the Sunny. Everyone stood back as he slowly rose from a kneeling position. Thick ivory wings with black fringes hung from his back. Feathers dusted his path as he strolled forward. He was young and exuded an aura of warmth. "Welcome, fellow sailors", he said with a grand smile. Fingering Wado's hilt, Zoro asked, "Who're you?". Luffy cocked his head to one side in curiosity. "What do you call this place?", asked Robin. "This is the queen's sanctuary. We call it Home", said the man, brimming with pride. "Home? That's it?", said Luffy, unimpressed. The man shook his hand. "That's it", he stated.
Robin took a few steps forward and stared hard at his wings. Catching her gaze, he grinned and stretched them to their full extent. They were longer than he was tall and they were gorgeous. "You like them?", asked the stranger. Stretching a wing toward her, he said, "Go ahead; Touch." Chopper peeked around Zoro. "Who are you?", he asked.
He laughed to himself as the girls fingered his wings. Sanji was just starting to get jealous when his own curiosity won him over. Handing Chopper a loose plume, the man said, "My name is Brymal." Zoro crossed his arms. "Weird name", he said. Brymal laughed. "We all have names like mine here", he said. He fluttered his wings, slightly tickled from Nami's touch. Nami pulled back her hand, blushing. "Sorry", she said. "It's quite all right. If you like them so much, you should see the queen and claim your own", said Brymal.
"You can do that?!", exclaimed Luffy. Brymal grinned warmly. "Certainly. If you catch her intrigue, she'll gladly give you all wings of your own", he explained.
Chopper quietly inspected the plumage. "They're a lot bigger than the ones in Sorajima", he said. "You could call us distant relatives. Angel Island's people must be saddened that their wings are useless", replied Brymal. Reflectively, he added, "I can barely imagine life again without mine." Brook came on deck with Franky and took their place in the speculation. "So, you can really just grow wings like that, huh?", asked Franky. "Doesn't it hurt?", inquired Usopp. Brymal shrugged. "A small price to pay for the freedom of the skies", he said. Inhaling deeply, he said, "You never know true freedom until you soar." "Does everyone have wings like that here?", asked Chopper. Brymal was taken aback by the sight of Brook. "You're an odd looking fellow, aren't you?", he said. "You're one to talk", said Sanji nonchalantly.
Brymal shook it off. "Not exactly like them...Each person's wings form differently", he explained. "And she can really give them to us?", asked Luffy excitedly. "Of course. She is our heavenly maiden. I'll be glad to take you to her", replied Brymal. "Looks like they'd get in the way during a fight", said Zoro, uninterested. "On land they can, but nothing beats aerial combat, my friend", replied the angel man. Zoro cocked an eyebrow. Apparently, his interest had been piqued. "Let's go then! I wanna fly, too!", exclaimed Luffy. Nami grabbed his shoulder. "Hold it", she said. "Awww, what now?", whined Luffy. Nami crossed her arms. "It all sounds a little too good to be true. How much do those things cost?", she demanded. "Our Lady would never accept money for her gifts!", said the offended angel. "Surely she doesn't just give them away or everyone on the sea would have them", interjected Robin calmly. "You'd be surprised", he replied cautiously. Polite chit-chat was made as the Sunny docked further upriver. Nami reminded Luffy of what Bartlett and Bosc had said, but he was set on going ashore.
The city looked as if it had been torn from a storybook. Gold trimming lined porcelain and ivory buildings; Silver charms hung in garlands from ivy-wrapped pillars. Even the plants that lined the roadway were actually tiny faceted gems, ingeniously bound to resemble flowers amid the shrubbery. "Wow!", exclaimed Chopper. Slowly looking around, Nami asked, "Where did all this come from?". "The late king was rather lavish, but he was sure to leave his riches to the people", replied Brymal. Children ran by laughing in play. Robin noticed they had no wings of their own, though the few adults present seemed to. Noticing her intrigue, Brymal explained, "Wings are earned at a coming of age ceremony. The child binds themselves in faith to our Lady and in return, she gives them the gift of flight." "I see", she said.
The group that followed him consisted of Luffy, Nami, Robin, and Chopper. They tried to take in everything as they passed, but the glitter of precious stones and metals slowly faded from focus. The few people there seemed so friendly; They all smiled and waved as they passed. Robin took notice of what Brymal had said. It was true everyone's wings differed slightly, but most were similar to his own, pastel-hued and angelic. The group halted at a large staircase. It led upward into the pink clouds that roamed the air. They reminded Chopper of home, but he was glad for the memories. Two men in chainmail stood guard at the foot of the steps. Making a hand gesture, Brymal said, "Hail! I've brought guests for our Lady." The two looked at each other a moment, then one stepped forward and removed his helmet. He had copper curls strewn across his face that belied his age. His wings were completely crimson and not feathered at all; They were almost leathery. He returned the same gesture. "Hail", said the guard. Bowing to the girls and boys in turn, he said, "Welcome Home, ladies; Gentlemen."
Brymal locked hands with him and shared a hearty hug. "Friends, this is Aelo; He's an old friend of mine", explained Brymal. "Not too old", replied Aelo, winking at Nami. She shied away and Robin chuckled. "Neat! Crimson ones! I wonder what color mine will be", said Luffy. "So, you've come to claim your freedom? Excellent! Brymal will lead you to our Lady...Please, be kind. I'm sure she gets tired of granting so many wishes sometimes", said Aelo. Passing him by, Brymal teased, "Then perhaps you should get her a gift."
Aelo smiled at his companion, and bowed with a gesture for them to follow him. The stairs seemed to go on forever, but just when they thought they couldn't walk anymore, a marble floor led into a sunlit atrium. Chopper looked down the steps, exhausted. "We made it!", he said. "Finally...", added Nami, rubbing her calves. Brymal laughed. "Sorry, friends. I forget you're not used to it", he said. "Don't you just fly over them, normally?", asked Robin. "No, no; The walk is good. A tired face is always happier to see our Lady's gracious smile", he replied.
A young girl with tattered wings entered the room. Feathers fell to the floor as she moved. Her wings were pure white and blended with her ashen complexion. Brymal reached toward her. "Miaka, you look awful", he fussed. She turned her wan face upward and forced a wholesome grin. "No worries, Brother", she said. Fingering her wings, he said, "They're beginning to atrophy. You must fly soon or they'll - ". Miaka cut him off. "Welcome, honored guests", she said. "Are you okay?", asked Luffy. Miaka straightened her posture. "Fine, I assure you. Please have a seat. You must be tired from the climb", she said kindly.
Large, luxurious sofas were set out in an arc. The were covered in deep red velvet and trimmed with fine lace. The crew sat and helped themselves to the water waiting for them on a tray. Nami looked out to their hosts as they sat. The siblings appeared to be having a hushed conversation. "Brother, your wings...", uttered Miaka with concern. "Isn't it wonderful?", beamed Brymal. She shook her head. "No, they're turning black", she said. "I've been chosen. Aren't you glad?", he asked. Noticing Nami's gaze, Miaka turned her face down and said nothing more. Brymal took a deep sigh before returning to his candid smile as he came to sit with them.
"Everything all right?", inquired Robin. "Quite fine", replied Brymal. "So, that's your sister?", asked Nami. "Yes. She's my junior", he said. "You guys look kind of alike, but your wings are different colors", observed Luffy. "Come to think of it, I didn't see anyone in town with black trimming either", stated Robin. "Is it special?", asked Chopper. Brymal proudly replied, "Very. It means our Lady has chosen me as one of her Closest." "Closest?", repeated Luffy. Brymal nodded. "Indeed. You see, certain persons are chosen by our Lady. She takes us in hand and we cherish her company. I'm afraid it's much too complicated to explain in one sitting", he explained. "Your sister didn't look too happy about it", said Nami. "It isn't ladylike to eavesdrop, you know", he mildly chided. Nami waved it off. "She just looked a little worried, that's all", she said. "I'm afraid her health has been failing lately. With any luck, once I become one the Closest, I can seek our Lady's aide for her", said the angel. "So, your queen's pretty strong, then?", asked Luffy.
"The very beacon of merciful power", beamed Brymal. "I didn't see many people on the way here. You must be a small community", observed Robin. "Our Lady must limit her gifts, sadly; Too many would kill her. We Closest tend to her day and night once our wings have fully blackened", he explained. "Why black?", asked Luffy. Brymal shrugged. "It has always been", he stated.
"How long have you and your sister lived here?", asked Nami. "About four years, now. Our Lady has given us a new start on life. Once we were penniless and alone. We were captured and sold as slaves. The vessel that had bought us happened to pass by this island...Our Lady saved us. In return, we took on her way of life. We were given wings and new names...We left our past behind us that day", said Brymal. "Are there many Closest?", inquired Robin. "Not at all; No more than two at a time usually. One of us is aging and his strength has waned. His wings will grow ashen as mine grow dark; I am to be his replacement" he replied.
A voice echoed softly from behind a thick curtain. "Always the keen one, my dear Brymal", said a woman. Brymal turned in surprise. Kneeling, he said, "My Lady! Forgive me. I was merely educating our guests." "It's quite all right. Please, bring them to the throne room", said woman serenely. "Yes, my Lady", he said. She strolled away while everyone else rose. Brymal slowly got up and and smiled humbly. "You are fortunate. Our Lady seldom greets guests so personally", said the angel. "But she didn't even talk to us", said Luffy. "Don't be rude", chided Nami, jabbing his ribs. "I'm sure she'll receive us properly in the throne room", said Robin.
Brymal nodded and led the group to a large room with stone floors and gilded arches. The throne was ornately decorated with roses in various hues. Miaka stood silently off to one side and an older man with graying wings waited next to the throne. He smiled as they entered. "Hail!", cried Brymal. "Hail!", said the aging man. Shaking his hand, he said, "Glad it was you, my boy. You'll be a worthy replacement for this old codger." "Come now. You're still in your prime, Oran", said Brymal. Oran chuckled. "Ah, the wit of youth", he said. Turning with a bow, he said, "Welcome, fine guests. I present you to our Lady. May she bless you as she has us."
The group quietly shuffled in. Brymal cleared his throat. "You may wish to introduce yourselves", he said. Luffy stepped forward. "Monkey D. Luffy. (pointing) These are my friends, Nami, Robin, and Chopper." The queen sat behind a veil. She seemed to be in her thirties and sat in a lovely medieval European gown, beaded in white and trimmed in gold and silver. Her fair hair was tied into an elaborate braid upon the top of her head. "Welcome Home, friends. May you find peace", said the queen. "Forgive his manners", said Nami, bowing her head. The queen chuckled. "It's all right. He's kinder than most pirates I've met", she said. "How'd you know we were pirates?", asked Luffy.
"They're the only ones who ever come, Lad", said the old chosen. "Oran speaks the truth. Please, be at ease. We mean you no harm", said the lady.
After a brief, uncomfortable pause, Nami spoke up. "Someone warned us not to come here", she ventured. "But why? Everything's so beautiful and the people are so nice!", said Chopper. The queen turned her gaze toward Oran. He nodded and began to explain. "Wouldn't have been the Siren, would it?", he asked. "Yeah!", said Chopper. "I'm afraid she holds a slight grudge ever since she was denied wings of her own", said the old man. "Is that right?", asked Robin. "Only the pure of heart can receive them", added Brymal. "That explains it", said Nami dryly. "We hold many things sacred here: Honor, truth, loyalty...But she had rather different values", said Oran. The lady of the isle raised her palm. "Let us speak no more of her. Her memory poisons my peace", she said. "Yes, my lady", said Oran with a bow.
"Luffy, do you seek wings of your own?", asked the queen. "That'd be awesome! But not just me; I want them for my whole crew", grinned Luffy. Oran smiled. "All or nothing, eh?", he teased. "Luffy-san, don't ask too much", chided Brymal. "No, you all seem to be fine people. Tell me Luffy, how many are in your crew?", said the queen. He started counting on his fingers and Nami shook her head with a sigh. "Including me, nine", he stated. "I see", said the queen.
Brymal stood by humbly while Oran observed her thoughts. "I will award you two pair until I can deem the others worthy, but be warned - It does come at a price", replied the lady. "Nami, how much gold do we have?", asked Luffy. Oran laughed heartily. "Not money, my boy!", he said. "The seeds will be sowed. They will feed from your heart and depending on what lies within, your inner self will project out into wings of your own", explained Brymal. "It is not without pain, but all things in life must be earned", said the queen calmly. "I can take it", said Luffy confidently. Turning to the others, he asked, "Who's with me?". "Why not you, Ms. Navigator?", said Robin slyly. "Me?!", said Nami. "Yeah! Sanji will love it!", chimed Chopper. "True", said Robin with a chuckle. Luffy reaching a hand toward her. "Well?" She sighed deeply as she thought. Resolutely taking his hand, she said, "All right."
"Then it is decided", beamed the captain. "Your wings should bloom fully in about 24 hours. It takes about six days for your log pose to reset. That will give you all time to gain your freedom from the earth", said Oran. They nodded and awaited what came next. "Please...Come and receive your gift", spoke the queen. Luffy gave an excited grin and prodded Nami forward. She took a deep breath. "I guess I'm first...", she said nervously. She slowly climbed the few steps and ducked through the veil. The queen sat with a smile that poured out warmth. She was pale with bright blue eyes that glittered like sapphires. Sitting up straight, she reached out her hands. Carefully taking them, Nami was gently pulled into a hug. "Welcome Home, child", whispered the queen. She surprised Nami by kissing her softly on the lips and sat back calmly. Nami could feel something different, but couldn't place what. Humbly backing away, Nami uttered, "Thank you."
The lady of the isle smiled graciously and awaited Luffy. He, too, went through the strange ritual. "Hmm, minty", said Luffy, coming down the steps. Nami tried not to smile as Chopper looked at them confused. "Our Lady needs rest now. Please, follow Brymal", said Oran. She slumped in her throne and they were shooed from the room. Outside, Luffy turned in circles, trying to look at his back. "Twenty-four hours? Does it really take that long?", he asked. "That all depends on your will and strength", replied Brymal.
They stood on a balcony, overlooking the island. The expanse was as dreamy as what they had seen on the way to the palace...All except for one shadowed spot on the leeward side of the mountains. Luffy pointed. "What's that?", he asked. "That would be the Land of the Fallen", replied Brymal. "A cemetery?", asked Robin. He solemnly nodded. "A graveyard?!", cried Chopper. Nami gazed toward the sea. "Luffy, we should get back. They're probably starting to wonder about us", she said. "By all means, return to your comrades. Our Lady will meet you all again once your wings have blossomed. She will see the rest of you about receiving your gifts upon that time", said Brymal. "Does she always get so tired?", inquired Chopper "The gifts take a lot out of her", replied the angel.
"What do her wings look like?", asked Luffy. "You didn't see them?", said Robin. "There were silk sheets draped over them", explained Nami. "The sight of her Ladyship's wings is truly magnificent. It is reserved solely for the Closest. I've not yet seen them, myself, but I hear they're the most beautiful wings beyond imagination. I'll get a chance to gaze upon them at my initiation", beamed Brymal with pride. "That great, huh? Mine will be better", said Luffy with a wide grin. Nami smacked him upside the head. "Don't be rude!" Brymal laughed. "Please, return to your friends. I'll see you all tomorrow", he said. He led them back to the main staircase and they sullenly started their descent.
Back at the Sunny, their return was eagerly awaited. The group had departed over half the day ago. "Nami-san! Robin-chan! You're back!", said Sanji. "So, what happened?", asked Usopp. "It was beautiful! Everything was so shiny!", said Chopper. "Very elegant", added Robin with a smile. "So the place is loaded?", said Franky coyly.
"Don't even think about it", said Nami with a glare. Before Franky could question the thief s honor, Zoro cut in. "You decided not to get them after all, huh?", he asked. "Nope! I already got 'em!", beamed Luffy. Confused glances were exchanged. "Luffy and I both did, but it takes time for them to grow in", explained Nami. "About twenty-four hours", added Robin. "I can't wait to see my angel in her full glory!", pranced Sanji. "With any luck she'll strike you blind and you'll shut up", said Zoro. Sanji glared at him momentarily, but then was lost in his thoughts of Nami soaring overhead.
Nami stretched idly. "I'm starting to get pretty stiff. Do you feel anything yet, Luffy?", she asked. Luffy nodded with a slight eye twitch. "I'd say it's going to be a long night", said Robin. "Meat! That'll help them grow in faster!", exclaimed the captain. "I'm on it", said Sanji with a grin. He went inside and started dinner. "It'll be interesting to see how they turn out", said Usopp. "Yeah. You think she'll give the rest of us wings, too?", asked Franky. "Hard to say. We all meet with her again tomorrow", replied Nami. Robin sprouted two hands from Nami's shoulders and rubbed her back. "Does this help?", she inquired. "A little, thanks", replied Nami, starting to relax.
Robin was right. It really was going to be a long night. Luffy tossed and turned, but Nami sobbed in pain. Sanji fretted over her, bringing her anything she wanted, rubbing her back, holding her hand. Robin took over when her shirt started to tear and shooed him out. Chopper tended to both Nami and Luffy, but Luffy insisted it was nothing.
When morning broke, the duo had small wings unfolding, covered in down. By nightfall, they would be fully grown. Colors danced over their surfaces unsure of what to settle on. By the afternoon, feathers had began coming in. Luffy laughed, saying it tickled and Nami was just too tired to care. "Seems you've finally settled on a hue", stated Brook. Luffy looked across his shoulder. "Really?", he said. Zoro smirked. "Pure gold. That's a surprise", he said wryly. "Hey, Nami! Beat this!", teased Luffy as he spread his wings. She glanced at her own wings. They were a pastel pink with pearlized highlights. "I knew yours would be gorgeous, Nami-san!", beamed Sanji.
Brymal returned near sunset as Nami stretched her wings to their maximum length. Luffy fluttered his in vain, trying to get airborne. Brymal laughed and gathered everyone together. "You'll never get lift like that, Brother. I'll be sure to teach you all you'll need to know. It'll be no time at all before you start aerial acrobatics", he said. "What if they fall?", asked Usopp, peering upward. "I'll be there to catch them", assured Brymal.
Sanji's eyes watered as the sunlight danced over Nami's form. He clutched a rag blissfully. "So beautiful...", he uttered, sniffling. Brymal glanced around. "Is everyone ready to ascend?", he asked. Nami hung her head. "I forgot about the stairs...", she muttered. "Who's going to watch the ship?", asked Zoro. "Your ship will be quite safe here, I assure you", said Brymal. "I'll do it", volunteered Brook. "Don't you want to fly?", asked Usopp. "I've no skin to support feathers", replied the skeleton. Sipping his tea, he calmly added, "I'll wait here." "Then it's settled", said Luffy with a nod. They all headed out, except for Brook. He didn't mind being alone for a few hours; He'd done it for fifty years. This was nothing.
Once they arrived at the palace, everyone rested their legs while Brymal made the arrangements. After some time to relax, he came for the group and led them to the thick door to her highness. "You two gifted will enter first and receive your new names. It's customary", said Brymal. "We have to change our names?", inquired Chopper. "Think of it as a nickname or pet name - A term of endearment from our Lady unto you", assured the angel. He pushed open the door and led them in. Luffy and Nami stood in front of the others. "Welcome Home", greeted the queen. Oran stood with his arms crossed, leaning against a column. He smiled as he watched the proceedings. This many at once was exceedingly rare. "Approach, my children", instructed her ladyship.
Luffy and Nami stepped forward, cued by a look from Brymal. "Welcome Home, my son. From this day forward, you will remain in my heart as Trian", she said. Turning, she added, "Welcome Home, daughter. From this day forward, you will remain in my heart as Minore." "Trian? Minore?", asked Luffy, confused. Nami grabbed his arm and led him back down the steps.
The queen took her time eying the group and asking questions of character. After a moment of silence, she gave her decree. "I will award more gifts upon your crew, Trian", she stated. "All of us?", asked Chopper excitedly. She lilted her head with a sad expression. Stepping forward, Oran said, "I'm sorry, friend, but her gift won't work for you. Or you, cyborg." "Why not?!", demanded Luffy. "She has tried to help our furry friends in the past... It never ended well. As for you, you're just too heavy to fly", explained the old guard. "I was afraid of that", said Franky, disappointed. "I feel saddened for you two, but I can still enlighten the rest of you. Please, come and receive your gifts", said the queen as Franky hung his head.
A few looks were exchanged, but one by one, they each followed suit in the unusual rite. Usopp had emerged from the veil with a red face. Sanji pranced down the steps with a dreamy look. Robin and Zoro came down the steps as calm as if nothing had happened. The isle's matron slumped in her chair. "Go now, my children. I will name you all upon the morrow", she said weakly. Oran held a fist to his chest and shuttered in pain. Brymal ran over to comfort him. Pushing him off, the aged chosen said, "It's all right. I merely feel our Lady's pain."
Brymal took the cue. "Come, friends", he said. He led them back to the same balcony as the day before. Luffy was excited, but Nami just peered over the edge nervously. "Fear not, sister Minore. You'll find that soaring high leaves your troubles to fall back to the earth", assured Brymal. "Falling's what I'm afraid of", she replied wryly.
He extended his hand toward her. "I'll be there to catch you. Give it a try", he encouraged. "I'll go first! Nami can watch me until she's ready", volunteered Luffy. Brymal nodded. "Very well. We'll start with the basics. We're pretty high up, so we'll just leap into a glide", he said.
He spent a few minutes explaining to them how to stretch and control their wings. Luffy peered over the edge in anticipation. "Ready for your first flight?", he asked.
"Yeah!", exclaimed Luffy. Brymal leapt from the balcony and quickly arced back up. Shouting down, he called, "Come on! It's easy!".
Luffy laughed to himself and took the plunge. Nami and the others watched nervously. A silent minute passed until finally, Luffy flapped his wings hard and caught up with Brymal. He shouted, "Nami! You've gotta try this!" "Minore, come join us! It's the best view of the island", encouraged their instructor. Sanji smiled at her and nodded toward them. "You can do it", he said. She took a deep breath and approached the edge. "I sure hope so", she mumbled. She took a few steps back, gauged the distance, and ran forward with her eyes clenched tightly closed. Before they knew it, she had circled back up and laughed at the ease she was having. "This is great!", she cried. Brymal grinned proudly. "All you need is the faith that you can."
The crew watched Nami and Luffy for about an hour until they came back down. Brymal landed perfectly and helped Nami steady herself as she came down. Luffy landed with a thud. "Are you okay?", asked the sniper. "It's exhausting, but...I've never felt anything like it before!", panted Luffy. Nami blushed with exertion. "Agreed", she said with a faint grin. "Your stamina will improve with practice. Judging by some of your expressions, I'd say you're starting to feel your wing buds awaken. You'd best get back to your ship and rest", instructed Brymal. Sanji stretched deeply. "Sounds good to me", he agreed. "Yeah. Brook's probably bored", yawned Zoro. "Bored out his skull?", sniggered Usopp. Luffy and Chopper cracked up. Robin chuckled and Nami shook her head. "All right, guys. Let's get back", said the captain. Brymal waved them off cheerfully. "Until the morrow, friends!", he called.
Miaka slowly came out onto the balcony. "You always were a good teacher", she said. "They'll rest well tonight. I doubt they've realized just how much energy they've spent just yet", he replied, turning to greet her. Miaka watched after them. "Yes, but the others won't rest well at all", she mumbled. "Perhaps, but the pain is a small sacrifice for the freedom", assured her brother. She smiled toward him, but eyed his darkening wings. They were turning much faster than she thought they should.
Fifty-three years ago...
Brook was having a great time. His crew drank and played music until they passed out at the local tavern. A pale, pink haired woman a bit younger than him had caught his attention a while ago and she was shyly awaiting his approach. Sitting beside her, he said. "Sorry about the noise. We're musicians." "It's okay", she said with a smile. "I love music. It's too quiet around here most of the time", she added. Brook grinned wide "Ah, another music lover! What do you play?", he asked. "I sing", she said shyly. "That could be a treat", he beamed. "Yeah!", shouted his crew as they raised their glasses.
She blushed with a slight smile. "You don't want to hear me. I'm terrible!", she said, shaking her head. "We'll be the judge of that", encouraged Brook with a nod toward his men. "Tell her, Captain!", someone yelled. "Come on. I'll play you in", he said as she raised his fiddle. "All right", she said with a sigh of defeat.
They made room for a small crate and helped her upon it. Brook started playing and his crew joined in. She started bopping to the beat and after a prodding look, she began singing. Her voice was beautiful and swiftly filled the room. Some of the men who had passed out woke up just to listen. She never missed a note or key and kept time perfectly even though they were all making it up as they went along. When they had finished, the entire tavern cheered for her. "That's my Rosario!", shouted the barkeeper with a raised mug. She chuckled to herself as Brook helped her down. Stumbling into him, they locked eyes briefly before shying away from one another.
Taking her hand, Brook praised, "That was marvelous!" Teasing, he added, "I thought you said you couldn't sing." Rosario shrugged. "Well, I never much liked my voice", she said. "No, you were good! Right, men?", he cried. His crew toasted their glasses. "Encore!", they yelled. She chuckled as Brook led her back to the bar. "That was fun", she sighed. "How'd you like to do that every day?", he asked. "What?", she replied, caught off guard. Brook took her hand. "Sorry, I didn't properly introduce myself. They call me Humming Brook", he said. Waving outward, he added, "This is my crew, the Rumba pirates. We're both pirates and musicians." "Nice to meet you, Mr. Pirate. My name is Rosario...I don't have a very interesting life, I'm afraid", said Rosario. "It could be. Come with us", he said with a coy grin. "I barely know you!", she said. "That's what a life of adventure is all about", he teased. Rosario chuckled. "You're very sweet, but you wouldn't like me once you got to know me. Thank you for the good time, though. Is there anything I can do for you? Buy you a drink?", she asked. Brook leaned on the counter. "May I see your panties?", he inquired. She laughed. "That's a straight-forward answer", she said. He grinned wide. They talked for quite some time.
After while, his crew started shuffling back toward the inn. Brook's firstmate leaned against the wall by the exit and watched them laugh. Rosario giggled at his tale. "There's no way!", she exclaimed. "It's true! I swear!", he said. She wiped the tears from her face. "This is the closest to crying I've ever gotten", she said without emotion. "You've never cried? Ever?", asked Brook, intrigued. She shook her head. "It just isn't something I do", she explained. He grinned. "That's good. Pretty girls shouldn't cry. It'll give you wrinkles", he teased.
Her smile faded at that comment. Her demeanor became sullen. "I don't think I have to worry about that", she said glumly. "Oh? Good skin care?", he taunted with an elbow nudge. "Something like that", she mumbled. Looking around, she added, "It's late; I should go." "But we're just getting to know each other", pleaded Brook. Rosario nodded toward the door. "Your friend is waiting for you", she said. He sighed in defeat. "All right. Meet me here again tomorrow", he said as he held her hands. "A little sudden, don't you think?", she asked. "We'll be here until the log pose resets. No hurry. Just come see me again before I leave, hmm?", he said with a smile. Rosario blushed faintly. "All right. Good night", she said as she took her leave. Coming up behind him, Brook's firstmate said, "If I didn't know better, I'd say you were smitten." Watching her leave, he sighed, "Didn't you hear her sing? It was like an angel." "Yeah, yeah. Come on, Loverboy", prodded his friend.
Later that week, Brook walked the street with Rosario. It was their third day together and they had four more to go until the log pose reset and it was time to say 'goodbye'. "You're awfully quiet today. Is everything all right?", he asked. "I'm fine", she stated. Prodding her side, he teased, "Come on. Where's that captivating smile?" "You think my smile is captivating?", she said coyly. Brook blushed lightly. "Well...Yeah...A little", he stuttered. "Thanks...I needed that", she said, smiling to herself.
They reached their destination. It was a small, cozy house at the edge of town. Brook looked the building over. "Nice place", he said. "It keeps the rain out", she shrugged. They went inside and she served up some tea. "I hope it's okay that we're here alone", said Rosario. "What did you have planned?", he teased. She giggled. "Stop that. I just meant that I hoped you were comfortable with it, but I guess that's pretty obvious", she said. Brook sipped his tea and looked over the scant photos that hung on the wall. Pointing, he asked, "Are those your parents?" Rosario nodded. "Yes. I take after my mother, I know", she stated. "A little, but I think you're cuter than she was", said Brook.
She fought herself to keep from getting depressed again. "Did I say something wrong?", he asked. Pulled from thought, she said, "Hmm? No. It's just...Well, I guess that's what's been bothering me." Brook slid closer. "What is it?" She sighed deeply. "I thought they died at sea, but they didn't." Fingering an envelope on the table, she added, "I got a letter the day I met you. It had some...disturbing information." "Like what?", he asked with concern. "Who I am...or what...", she said sullenly. "What could be so bad? Were you adopted?", he teased. "No, it's not that...I always knew I was different, but I never thought - ...I guess that's why we moved so much", she rambled.
Brook leaned over, trying to read her expression. Looking down, she said, "I told you that you wouldn't like me once you found out." "What could be so terrible, so strange, that you can't tell me? You've got a secret. So do I. Doesn't everyone?", replied Brook. "What?", she asked, with a look of hope. "I ate the yomi yomi no mi. When I die, I'll come back", he stated. "Resurrection?", she asked. "Pretty much", he nodded. She smiled and began to relax. "You also have a bounty", she said slyly. "Minor details", he said, brushing it off.
She chuckled and leaned into his shoulder. "Mine's worse", she said. "How's that?", he inquired. It felt good making physical contact. He was so warm. "You wouldn't believe me if I told you. I'm still trying to believe it myself", she muttered. Leaning his head on hers, he said, "I don't know. If I can come back from the dead, there's not much I won't believe." She started to snuggle up against him. "Can we talk about it later?", she asked. "Sure, but why wait?", he replied. His expression flickered as she pushed him over and leaned into him. "Unless you really don't want to see them anymore", she teased. "No, I'd very much like to", he said, still surprised. "That's what I thought", she sniggered.
Pressing against him, it wasn't long before things got complicated. Words were muttered, but neither cared. Before they knew it, it was morning and Brook woke up to find her snuggled close against him. He smiled to himself and settled back in. He was in no hurry to leave his angel.
To be continued...
