Fifty-two years ago...
Brook stared out to sea, trying to come up with a plan. Bosc stood behind him, actually seeming to care for once. "I don't understand why...", said Brook. "If you don't, she'll be the one to pay for it", replied Bosc. Brook turned toward the dhampire. "But the doctor said she was fine", he argued. "For now, she is", sated Bosc. "Damnit! Stop talking in riddles!", snapped Brook in frustration. "Well, now. What's this?", taunted Bosc with a coy grin. Brook grabbed him by the collar. "I appreciate your help recently, but the way you run everyone ragged trying to figure you out is driving me crazy! Just spit it out already!", he pleaded. "She'll die", said Bosc grimly. "What?", panted Brook. Bosc gently removed Brook's hands from his clothing. He finally dropped the confidence that surrounded him like smoke to a fire and looked at him pleadingly. "If you take her to sea again...She'll die", he repeated. Brook shook his head. "I don't understand", he said. "Ed patched her up this time, but what will you do next time this happens? Or the time after that?", replied Bosc. "She got sick because she wasn't feeding, right? I don't care if she uses me for that", stated Brook. "You really think one man will suffice in the long run? You'll be so weak, you'll be of no use to anyone - to your crew or Rosario. Then what will she do?", asked Bosc harshly.
Brook stood speechless. Annoyed, Bosc explained, "She'll watch you shrivel into nothing and blame herself. Then she'll spiral down into a pit of depression, so forlorn, even *you* won't be able to help her...You may come back from the dead, but how many times? If you die, she'll never smile again; You know that!" Turning away, he mumbled, "This is why I don't get involved with humans. Forging bonds with one's food always leads down the path of destruction." Brook watched him carefully as he peered down the face of the cliff they stood upon. "I loved someone once...She died...I never went back to who I once was. What you see now is just a shell", said the dhampire. He stepped forward and grasped Brook's shoulders firmly, looking him dead in the eye. "Rosario is one of the few people I actually give a damn about. I won't let her go through the same thing I did... It'll break her heart, but you must leave her behind. In the long run, you'll be saving her", he pleaded. "You know what you're asking me to do?", said Brook softly. "I do", replied Bosc resolutely. Brook met his gaze. "I can't do that...", he said. Bosc stepped back and surprised him with a left hook, knocking him to the dirt. "You selfish bastard", he sneered. Brook staring up, stunned. "Don't pretend to know what I'm thinking. This isn't about me or how I feel about her! You claim to care about her, yet you know nothing of her personality, her dreams, or her desires!... If I run now, it'll confirm everything she's been afraid of! It'll only stand to prove that humans are worthless trash and she'll never trust anyone again", snapped Brook. Bosc looked on, intrigued. "Go on." "Even if it is best for her health that I say goodbye, her hopes would shatter!... If I do that...What good am I as a man?! How can I destroy everything she's built?! And not just for me or even for us, but for herself! Don't you get it?", pleaded Brook.
Bosc grinned with a 'hmph' and helped him up from the ground. "Damn...You really won't back down about this, will you?", he said. "No", replied the stubborn human. Bosc chuckled to himself, his face in his hand. Brook watched him nervously until they locked gazes once more. Bosc sighed. "You win for now...But if she ever gets this bad again...I'll kill you and your crew myself", he stated. Brook nodded. "Deal."
The next day, Granny Momo was giving Rosario some pointers while Ed packed an emergency kit for the open seas. "Thank you so much. I can't tell you how thankful I am", said Brook sincerely. Packing a sack, Ed replied, "Nothing to it. Just keep a closer eye on her this time." Across the room, Bosc leaned his back to the wall, his arms crossed over his chest and watched. He'd kept to himself all morning, but nerves were running high. He clenched his arms tightly as he glared onward. "And that's how you keep from leaving any marks", finished Momo. "Really? That's amazing!", replied Rosario. "You pups don't know much, do you?", chuckled the old woman. "I guess not", said Rosario with a shy smile. "Well, don't let Bosc give you any grief. I've seen him sicker than you were for much the same reason", said Granny. Rosario glancing over at her brother. "Is that so?", she uttered. Momo winked knowingly. "Do yourself a favor and just turn him. You'll be happier in the long run", she teased. Rosario waved nervously. "I couldn't do that! It would be too much to ask", she said. Approaching, Bosc asked, "About done with girl time over here?"
Brook was getting some final instructions from Ed, when they heard a loud slap. Ed shook his head and didn't bother to look, but Brook turned in surprise. "Granny! Why on earth did you do that?", asked Rosario in shock. Bosc was in the floor, holding his cheek with a fierce glare. Momo stood over him fiercely. "Don't play innocent with me, boy! I know what you said to that man. You should be ashamed!", she chided. Rosario glanced to Brook, pleadingly. Coming over, he helped Bosc from the floor. Bosc eyed Momo. "You can hear like safe cracker, but you never did listen", he said. Brook reflexively took a step back as a seething aura formed around Momo. Her face distorted, appearing almost demonic and the air seemed to chill to the bone. Hissing with each word, Momo growled, "Child, you should know better than to admonish me! I can remove you from this world faster than you could blink!" Rosario stepped close to Brook. He wrapped his arm tightly around her as they stood aghast. Across the room, Ed said, "Now, Momo. Let him off easy. He's still just an idiot, after all." She sent some kind of pulse across the room that nearly took his head off. Rosario covered her mouth in horror as Ed's skin began to liquefy. "Momo! That's enough!", he shouted. She was too far gone to hear him. She no longer recognized friend from foe. Bosc was shuffling backward into a table when a small girl appeared from nowhere.
The girl hugged Momo tightly. "Granny, stop! It's enough! Come back!", she pleaded tearfully. Brook couldn't believe his eyes. They was some kind of familiarity to this child, but he'd never seen her during their stay. "It's her", said Rosario with relief. "Who?", asked Brook confused. She pointed and he looked on in awe. The girl had two fluffy tails hanging from her backside. She sobbed as she held firmly onto Momo. She kept repeating, "Come back!" over and over. Momo snapped her gaze downward upon the girl just as her claws began to emerge. Looking into the tearful face, Momo suddenly paused. Her features returned to human semblance and the wicked aura dissipated. It was all over within seconds. Momo slumped to floor, the twin-tailed cat in her arms, purring. "Well, aren't I embarrassed?", chortled the old woman.
Ed walked over, pressing his skin back into place. "You could've killed us all, you old coot", he chided. She looked up with a toothless smile, tears upon her cheeks.
"I'm sorry, Ed", she ceded. Looking at the panic stricken human, she added, "Sorry you had to see that, deary." Rosario let go of her love and stalked toward her brother. She hit him hard over the head. "Ow! What the hell?!", exclaimed Bosc. "Apologize!", she demanded. "Sorry, Granny", he said sheepishly. Rosario hit him again. Glaring at her, Bosc added, "Sorry, Ed." A third clunk to the head. "Would you stop that?!", he snapped. She fumed with a twitching eyebrow. He looked over and saw just how shaken Brook was. Rising slowly, he hung his head in defeat. "All right, all right. I apologize to whole freaking world, okay?! I was an ass; I'm sorry!", said Bosc.
Rosario stepped back to her lover and gently grasped his arm. "Are you okay?", she asked. "...What just happened?", asked Brook, blinking plainly. "Her true nature got loose", replied Ed. Snapping out of it, Brook repeated, "True nature?" Letting the cat down, Momo added, "We all have one...Our kind, I mean." He nervously glanced around the room before settling his gaze onto Rosario. "Now you know to stay on her good side, eh?", smirked Bosc. She shot her brother a dirty look. Slowly, everyone began cleaning up the mess. Bosc sidled close to Brook. "Think you can help her if she loses it like that?", he asked in hushed tones. Brook grinned softly. "She won't. I've stopped her before", he said. Bosc looked at him questioningly, but let it drop.
Later that afternoon, Momo and Ed waved them off. "Next time I'm charging you double for damages!", shouted Ed. Ignoring his threats, Bosc mumbled, "Yeah, yeah." The crew lit up when they finally returned. They stayed the night offshore with music and merriment. Rosario slipped away from the festivities and stepped into a shadow. "I know you're here", she stated to seemingly empty space. Appearing from nowhere, Bosc taunted, "What gave me away?" "I smelled a rat", she said wryly. Teasingly clasping his heart, he said, "Ouch." "Why did you say those things to Brook? Were you testing him? I don't need you to protect me, you know", she said. "You're welcome", he replied sarcastically. She smirked and turned to leave. Bosc grasped her arm. "Don't let me find you in such bad shape again, all right?", he said. Rosario sighing. "She died of an illness. You did nothing wrong", she replied. Intrigued, Bosc grinned. "Oh? You're learning to use your powers, I see", he taunted. Changing the heart of the matter, he added, I" know that, but he doesn't." She shook her head and walked away. Bosc watched her a moment longer before disappearing into the night. She wouldn't see him again for several years to come. Brook caught up to her. "Where'd you run off to? The boys want a song", he grinned. "I was just seeing Bosc off", replied Rosario. Taking his hand, she added, "Let's not keep them waiting." He didn't bother to ask what had transpired.
The crew cheered as she took center stage. She sang a joyous song and their hearts filled with happiness, their eyes with tears. When the night had settled down, she peered back toward the island in thought. "Just who were those two anyway?", inquired Brook. "Another one of Bosc's enigmas, I guess", replied Rosario. She could feel his loving gaze upon her and turned with a smile. They held each other near and kissed in the moonlight. "I'm glad you're well", he said softly. "I'm sorry... I should have said something", she ceded. "It doesn't matter now", he said. Trying to look mean, he added, "Just don't let it happen again."
They laughed as they turned in. They spent hours in each other's arms that night. It was very late when they finally settled in. He held her close as she slept, thinking about all that had happened. It was a lot to take in, but the part that echoed in his mind were her brother's words. He didn't fear her going berserk; He worried over what had been said previous. Would she really be okay out in the open sea? Would she need more than just him to survive?...
Fifty-one years ago...
Brook held Rosario close as they gazed into the sea. The setting sun danced pink hues across the sparkling waves. She sighed as she leaned back against him. "Something wrong, my dear?", he asked. "Just thinking...", she muttered. "Oh?", he inquired. Changing the subject, she said, "Strange to think this island is sinking, huh?...That awful storm came through just two days ago and already things are back to normal." "They say it happens every year...But something tells me that isn't what caused that pitiful sigh", he replied. She grinned meekly to herself before turning to face him. Forcing a smile, she said, "Three years, right?" He searched her expression. "Won't you change your mind?", he asked wistfully. Rosario shook her head. "I'll just slow you down...I can't believe Bosc said all of those awful things, but...He was right", she sighed. Brook held her hands. "I'll find willing people, myself, at every port. We can make this work", he said with hope. Shying away, she replied, "No...You're forcing dreams into reality again. You can do that with your music and move a person's soul, but to expect so many people to understand such a request in this world... It's hopeless." "But - ", he argued. Resolutely, she said, "No 'but's. You know this is the only choice right now." "What makes you think things will be different in a few years?", asked Brook. Come with us now. I'm not letting you quit my crew that easily", he grinned. She wrapped her arms around herself, making sure not to lock gazes. If they did, she would lose this argument.
Brook gently clasped her shoulders. "Please, Rosario...Tell me why", he pleaded. "I can't let those awful events replay. I can't endanger everyone because I lost control or make the crew drop everything because I wasn't taking care of myself...If it means waiting until you've fulfilled your previous promises, then so be it", she replied. He remembered the scenes she spoke of. It had been difficult, but all good things come at a price. If only he could make her see that. Sighing in defeat, he said, "You know nothing can stop me from coming back, right?" Glancing up, she replied, "I know." She embraced him tightly. "I'll be waiting here when you've completed your adventures", she stated. Returning the gesture, he replied, "You know it won't be the same without you... The rest of the crew thinks so, too." Rosario pulling away from him. "I think you boys will be fine without my horrid voice", she teased. "We all love your voice!", retorted Brook. She chuckled and kissed him gently. "Please go before this gets any harder...", she said.
His hands slipped from hers as she stepped backward. "Will you hear one last plea?", he asked. Shaking her head, she said, "Please don't." With a faint smile, she added, "You can complain all you want when you get back." His pleading look faded into a defeated grin. Stepping forward, he kissed her brow one last time. "Start planning now. It'll be one hell of a wedding", he said coyly. Rosario smiled warmly. "I just hope we survive it", she teased. Slowly, he walked back to the ship. She stood at the pier, waving sadly. To herself, she said, "Pull it together...You don't cry..." Brook looked back with a wan smile as the sails unfurled. "You gonna be all right?", inquired Yuu. "I hope so", sighed Brook. Yuu patted his shoulder. "Hang in there. Three years is nothing in the long run", he assured. Brook stared at Rosario's shrinking form. "...Yeah..."
Forty-five years ago...
Rosario stared out to sea with glassy eyes. She had waited, but her lover had not returned. Something shuffled behind her, but she took no notice. "How long are you gonna stand there?", asked Bosc. "I don't remember asking for company", she said coldly. "Come on already. We both know he's not coming back", he stated. She turned slightly to give him a dark look. "What? No big brothers allowed?", he taunted. Shaking her head slightly, she sighed in half amusement. "Don't you ever give up?", she muttered. "Only when the outcome is obviously not in my favor", he replied. Ignoring him, she uttered, "I think deep down I knew...But..." Bosc gently grasped her shoulder. "No one really wants to give up on someone they love, Sis, but six years in a mortal life is a bit of a stretch", he said. Suppressing a scowl, she simply maintained her gaze.
Teasingly shoving her, Bosc taunted, "Get over it. With your looks, you can lord over an entire island." "Fear is not the same love", said Rosario. "Fear, love, respect. Who cares? Point is you can have whoever you want in a snap. Even a blind man would succumb to your charms", said her brother. "You know I don't play those games, Bosc", she replied coolly. "And that's why you're weak as a kitten. At least get a willing..(searching for a word)...Host. There's a lot of freaky people out there, Kid", he stated with a grin. "I know. One of them is yammering in my ear", she said flatly. Mildly glaring, he took a more serious tone. "Don't let that feathery bubblegum hair of yours tint the world rosy for you. Knock it from your eyes and open them", he said. She stood silently for several minutes as her brother fidgeted, annoyed, by her side. He was trying to pull her into what, he deemed, was their heritage and she always had the same response. "He needs more time", she sighed.
Bosc scowled in frustration. "You can't stay here forever. People are already suspicious and you still owe me *BIG* for - ", he began. "I know!", snapped Rosario. Quickly passing her tiny temper tantrum, Bosc leaned against a large rock and shook his head. "You're hopeless...You know that", he sighed. "No, I have hope. You're the one that keeps telling me to let it go", she replied. "Well, I can see you're in a foul mood as usual, so I'll make things quick", said the enterprising dhampire. She looked to him, intrigued.
"What news could you possibly have beyond your usual harlots?", she asked wryly. Bosc grinned. "Funny you should put it that way", he said. "Dare I ask?", she said wearily. He laughed and her expression softened lightly. "I figured it was high time for a change of pace", said Bosc. She crossed her arms and gave him a bemused look.
Walking toward her, he grasped her shoulder and waved a hand to the open seas. "Fresh air! Fresh cash! Fresh women!", he began. Rolling her eyes, she sighed, "Here we go." Ignoring her, he stated, "I found the perfect situation for folks such as us." Humoring him, she uttered, "Oh?" "Think of it! A large ship full of the fey peoples that dwindle from this world. Each with an ambition: Feed, grow, reform", he explained. Pulling away, she shot him a stern look. "You're talking piracy", she ventured. Bosc smiled slyly. "Bingo! A little raid here, some love there, and who's to notice a little feeding in the midst of the frenzy?", he said. "Why do you insist on using people like that?", asked Rosario. Grabbing her arms, he turned her toward the town and pointed. "Those are not people. That is fodder. You know we're superior", he stated confidently.
Waiting until he noticed her fuming form, she slapped him hard. He stumbled, trying to keep his balance. She may be weakened by starvation, but she had power; Power he craved. "How dare you?!", she gasped. Cracking his jaw back into place, he sneered, "Get over it, Princess. None of those people give a damn about you. Why do you protect them when they slaughter our kin?" Gathering herself, she tried to calm down. "They merely need to be educated. We bleed same as them", she said. "Yet you mock my teaching methods", replied her brother. He gave a treacherous smile, half-expecting another slap, yet reveling in the fact that he had gotten to her so easily. "There is a difference between murder and acceptance. Are you too blind to see that?", she asked. "Sure, we'll just wave a big, white flag as we march down town square and kiss babies", he said sarcastically. "Why do you torment me?", she inquired. Turning away, she said, "Just go." "Who do you think will save you when they have you crucified on this very hill in a few years?", he asked grimly. Staring off into the sea, Rosario repeated, "He needs time."
Bosc sighed as he spun on his heel. Across his shoulder, he said, "You know how to find me." With a wisp of dank air, he was gone. She was glad for it, too. She wasn't sure how much longer she could hold the semblance of control. Crumpling into herself, she sat in the dirt as it began to rain. "What happened to you, my love?", she whispered.
Forty-two years ago...
Bosc was having a grand time at the local tavern. He'd had his fill of drink - both alcohol and blood. He sat in a corner booth with several girls traipsing over him. He laughed loudly at a remark from the barkeeper when the door swung open. A beautiful woman walked in and glared at him. She was covered in cut marks and looked exhausted. "Don't you ever shut up?", she said. Bosc grinned. "Well, look what the cat dragged in", he taunted.
The woman thrust a dagger into the table. If that wasn't enough, the seething look she gave the girls made them flee. Sitting down, she crossed her heels on the edge of table and nodded for a beer. "And what do I owe this pleasure?", he asked slyly. "Shut up and tell me what happened with your pirate plan", said the woman. Mussing her hair, he teased, "Kid sisters grow up too fast these days." She glared him as she fixed her pink locks. "Well?", asked Rosario. Bosc sat back, failing to hide his humored smile. "I'm sorry to stare, but...What happened?", he inquired. She grabbed the mug served to her and downed it in one swig. Rosario leaned forward. "What do you want me to say?...You were right. The townspeople turned on me", she ceded. He studied her expression carefully. "I'm guessing your other side woke again", he ventured. She slid him a wan look. Bosc shrugged, uncaring. "Just a guess...However, with your system so low and a riot at your door, your natural defenses would have kicked it...At least, I'd imagine", he stated.
"Sounds like you have some personal experience", she said. He waved off the comment. "There are more important things at hand", he said.
Before she could get in another word, he'd waved down a dark man with a flowing green ponytail. "Mercio, this is your new vice captain", stated Bosc. Mercio and Rosario both replied, "What?!" They glanced at each, then back to Bosc. Knowingly grinning, Bosc taunted, "Well, you didn't expect to stick around this dump, did you?" In the distance, the barkeeper shouted, "Hey!" "You know we love you, Vern!", laughed Bosc. "Captain, are you sure about this? I know you have a weakness for the ladies, but - ", began Mercio. Bosc swiftly stood. "This is no ordinary lady. This is my long lost sister and she is now in charge. Got it?", he stated firmly. His eyes danced with anger, but quickly subsided to his usual grin. Bowing, Mercio said, "My lady, welcome to our crew." With a nod from his captain, he left the siblings to talk. Rosario sighed in defeat. "Who am I in charge of exactly?", she asked. "Welcome to the Harlot Pirates", grinned Bosc.
Late that night, Bosc and Rosario stepped on deck of the massive floating party that housed the Harlots. Scanning the crowd before her, Rosario let out a short laugh.
"Looks like we've got some work to do", she said. "I know just the woman for the job", taunted Bosc. Turning to the party, he shouted, "Harlots! Welcome your new first mate, Bartlett Rosario!" The people cheered. Whether or not they meant it, she didn't care. It was good to stand among them without fear of treachery. "It's a motley crew, but you can fix it up. Mostly halfbreeds like myself right now", said Bosc. "I take it not many are willing to step forward and reveal their heritage to their so-called friends", ventured Bartlett.
"It is a problem and, of course, most purebreeds wouldn't be caught undead with us", he replied. "We'll have to fix that", she smirked. "Excellent", he said with a grin. Bartlett addressed the crew. "I can see there's a lot of good people here. You may or may not know who or what I am. It matters little. Our numbers will grow. Pure and half blood will dine together alongside humans, fishmen, or whoever else feels like joining", she announced.
People shuffled nervously at her last statement, but Bosc beamed beside her. If anyone could fix his mess, it'd be her. "I've got a lot to learn, but I'm not afraid to ask. I suggest you look upon me and what I know in the same light...I know little of your crew, but I do know how to start things off right", said Bartlett. She smiled as she raised a bottle of wine and the whole crowd cheered "kanpai!" as one. It would be weeks before they made landfall once more and she learned a great deal as they sailed. The crew quickly accepted her into the fold. She was a strong new force to be reckoned with and within a few years, she would fully take the reigns from her brother as he had always intended. He was content to step aside and have the freedom to do whatever pleased without concern for the rest of them. As time went on, the numbers grew from a mere 150 to nearly 500. Curious looks were passed when a small, roughed up little girl was brought on board, but it was clear she was favored by the uppers and thus no one questioned it much. While small, she spent most of her time chasing at the heels of Bosc or a few others she had chosen to trust. When asked, they found out the hard way her nature and Anjou stepped up to third in command of her own accord before she hit puberty. The one fool enough to challenge the subject ended up on her sea king bait and no one crossed her again after that. It seemed the Harlots and their new chain of command would sail for eons without trouble, until one day, the Siren trapped an old friend...
-
Presently...
Bartlett sat in her chair, deeply blushing. She'd never cried before...And worst of all, someone had seen her do it. She did have to admit to herself, though, that she'd never felt so relieved, either. Brook handed her some wine. "So, what's your answer?", he asked. Looking away from him, she replied, "It's dangerous." "That never stopped us before", he grinned. She smiled to herself, despite her feelings. "Will you help save my nakama?", pleaded the skeleton.
Bartlett sat in silence. He waited patiently for her response. "I'll send for Bosc", she sighed. Gently touching her arm, he uttered, "Thank you." Studying his boney fingers, she said, "Only for old times...But you'll owe me. Big." "Of course!", he laughed.
Back on the Sunny, the group was trying to absorb the stories they'd just heard. "Huh...I never would have thought...", said Franky. "So, she is really a vampire?", inquired Chopper. Relieved the worst was over, Usopp replied, "Yeah." "I don't get it. Why'd he tell you all this?", asked Sanji. "Well, he only told me half of it. The rest I overheard when he was talking to Luffy", explained Usopp. "So, you were eavesdropping?", said Nami suspiciously. Interjecting, Zoro said, "It doesn't matter. At least things are starting to make sense." "It seems so strange, though...", observed Robin. "What does?", asked Nami. "Don't any of you find it odd that they were thrown back together like this?... He may choose to stay with them", said Robin. "Brook can't leave!", panicked Chopper. "That's not our choice", stated Sanji. Taking a drag, he added, "Fate is a cruel mistress." Brook entered the room. "Who said I was leaving?", he inquired.
They all turned toward the opened door. "Brook!", said Usopp with relief. "You're back!", elated Chopper. "What'd they say?", asked Nami. Brook stepped aside. Bosc was standing right behind him, his arms smugly crossed over his chest. Half-bowing, the dhampire said, "We meet again." "So, it really was you", observed Sanji. "Who else?", asked Bosc nonchalantly He walked to the center of the group. "All right. Off with your shirts, everyone", he ordered, snapping his fingers. "What?!", cried Nami. "I have to see how deeply rooted your little friends are", said Bosc calmly. "But - !", argued Sanji. Interjecting, Bartlett stepped forward. Nodding to the door, she said, "Don't worry; I'm here to help. Come on, girls." Nami and Robin exchanged looks, but followed her below deck. The men all stripped their upper bodies and took turns being examined. Chopper watched closely, intrigued.
"Fascinating", said Bosc with a poke. "What?", asked Zoro across his shoulder. Pulling loose a feather, Bosc replied, "They actually seem to be metallic in nature. They should be far too heavy to be of any use...Do they actually work?" "Yeah", said Zoro. Bosc studied the quill closely. It held a drop of blood which he quickly tasted. "Just as I thought", he smirked. "What?", asked the unamused swordsman. "Your hair was the first give away...You're not entirely human", stated the dhampire. "What?!", exclaimed Brook. "Come again?", said Sanji cautiously. Bosc tossed the feather aside. "The fey blood is rather diluted, but it's there. I'd say... Probably about fourteen generations back...Give or take." "Hard to say", shrugged Zoro, uninterested. Usopp and Chopper stared in awe. He'd taken the news so easily, though it did explain some of his strengths. Usopp wondered who else aboard had varied ancestry when Bosc spoke out once more.
"You and the dark haired woman were chosen as well, were you not?", asked Bosc. "That's right", replied Zoro. "Then yours will be the deepest", stated Bosc. "What do you mean, 'deepest'?", inquired Usopp skeptically. Coming back in, Robin explained, "He means, they'll be the hardest to rid ourselves of." "Exactly", grinned Bosc. Chopper looked up in interest. "How did you get rid of yours?", he asked. Bosc dropped his cape. "You mean these?", he said slyly. Dark, leathery wings hung from his shoulders. "I still use them sometimes. Always good for a quick getaway", he ceded. "So that's how you got onboard before", said Nami. "Quite right, my dear", he nodded. "But how'd you stop the atrophy?", asked Usopp. "Is it because you're a dhampire?", inquired Chopper. "It may have helped as a healing factor, but it was no picnic", replied Bosc. "So how'd you do it?", asked Franky. "I had some help", said Bosc with a grin.
Anjou came in with a large crate that seemed way too big and heavy for someone of her stature. Blowing the hair from her eyes, she said, "Next time, bring your own crap." "That's no way to address your elder", chided Bartlett. Anjou rolled her eyes. "Sorry, Bosc...You lazy prick", she muttered. Chopper inspected the crate. It was massive and well sealed. Being so close to Bartlett, his curiosity won him over. "Can I ask you something?", he inquired. Eying him, she replied, "I suppose." "How did you become a vampire?", he asked nervously. Everyone else paused what they were doing, wanting to know themselves. Bartlett grinned. "I was born this way. As was Bosc, my half-brother", she explained. "Vampires are born and not created?...Interesting", said Robin. Bartlett scruffed Anjou's hair. "And dhampires", she teased. Scrutinizing the girl, Sanji uttered, "You, too?"
She stuck her tongue out at him and made a face. Eying him, she dropped the immaturity and stepped closer. Striking a pose, Anjou taunted, "Want a taste?" Bartlett grasped her shoulder. "Down girl." Anjou crossed her arms with a "Hmph." "Are you Bartlett's sister?", asked Chopper innocently. Anjou laughed. "Hell, no! I'm a lot younger than that hag!", she stated. Bosc tried not to laugh as Bartlett's seething gaze burned into the back of Anjou's head. Sensing the glare, Anjou started, "I mean..." Cutting in, Bosc said, "We found her, alone and afraid. It's hard on your own when you're like us. So, we took her in." "Is that right?", asked Usopp. "There aren't a lot of us left, but enough to get by. That's why you see more dhampires than my kind", explained Bartlett. "Aren't we all high and mighty, Ms. Pureblood?", taunted Bosc. She threw her wine bottle at him. "Shut your mouth and open the damn crate", she said. Bosc sighed in defeat. "Fine." Brook stood by in silence. He already knew the plan.
Bosc ripped the top open like paper. Chopper peeked over the brim. Several vials were carefully packed inside. "What is it?", he asked. "Holy water", said Bosc. Thinking aloud, Sanji said, "A vampire captain...that carries holy water on her ship..." "Doesn't sound too smart", added Franky. "Don't be stupid. Most of what you think you know about my kind is all fantasy. I'm awake at night because I can't stand the daytime heat. Bosc and Anjou rotate their schedules depending on their moods", explained Bartlett. Pushing the conversation forward, Nami asked, "What do we do with it?" Bosc tossed her a vial. "Bottoms up", he grinned. Each winged person was handed a bottle and downed them quickly. Sanji looked himself over. "I don't feel any different", stated. "It'll only slow down the little critters, but there's only one way to save your captain", replied Bosc.
"And that is?", inquired Zoro. "Death", said Bosc darkly. Usopp darted his gaze. "What?!", he exclaimed. "That's crazy!", cried Nami. "We can't kill Luffy!", panicked Chopper.
"Think of it as knocking him out. We'll bring him back", said Bosc calmly.
Everyone poured an expression that shouted "how?!". "That's where I come in", grinned Bartlett. "You're not going to turn him into a vampire, are you?", asked Usopp nervously. "Weren't you listening earlier?", she sighed. "What will you do?", asked Nami, concerned. "I'll simply give him some of my life span. I won't miss forty or fifty years", replied Bartlett. "You'd really do that?", inquired Robin. Bartlett crossed her arms. "...An old friend called in a favor", she muttered. She risked a quick glance at Brook. "You're gonna look like Hell", giggled Anjou. "Hush, child. She'll only age in appearance a few years", said Bosc. "Aren't vampires immortal?", asked Usopp, confused. "Hardly", scoffed Bosc. "We age much slower; Our lives are much longer. So, to a normal human, we may seem that way", explained Bartlett. "We dhampires age at an accelerated rate, but it's still slower than humans", chimed Anjou. "The rate varies depending on which blood came out dominate", stated Bosc. Butting in, Bartlett said, "Enough chitchat. We need to explain the plan." "True", said Brook. Zoro stepped closer. "If we kill Luffy, what happens then?", he inquired. "And what about the knights?", asked Sanji. "Oh, that's simple", said Bosc. Eerily smiling, he added, "We're taking out Queenie, too."
On the island, the queen sat smugly, her Closest beside her. She startled as the huge door was kicked in. "How dare you!", she steamed. Sanji stood in the doorway, regaining his posture with a grin. Brymal crossed the room in the blink of an eye, sword drawn. "It seems to be the ones you discarded, my Lady", he observed. "Is that right?", she said keenly. Luffy grinned to himself as his crew entered the throne room. Robin quickly used her powers to over come Brymal. Nami and Sanji stood beside her. Zoro stalked forward, his blades ready. The queen sneered as Luffy leapt to his feet. He met Zoro before the throne. Luffy unsheathed his own blade, his eyes overcast. "Back down. You can't win", he said. "Do you even know how to use that thing?", smirked Zoro. "Luffy, snap out of it! It's us!", shouted Usopp. "We're your friends!", chimed Chopper. Franky guarded the exit in case any knights decided to show up, but he knew Brook and Bartlett's group would take care of them. Luffy's eyes flinched as he fought the queen's hold on him. "Zoro...You have to stop this", he said. "I know you're still in there, but I can't go easy on you", replied the swordsman. "Enough!", said the Lady, annoyed.
Luffy jerked back into stance, sword ready to face off; She had control of him once more. Zoro took the first opening and was surprised to see Luffy block it. "Heh. I guess she's got pretty good strings on you", said Zoro. Several more clashes rang out throughout the large room. Holding a blocked attack, Luffy said, "She's strong. You're gonna have to take me down." "I know", replied his first mate. Luffy trembled against himself. "Then stop screwing around!", he cried. He lunged forward, barely missing his friend.
"Luffy, you can shake her! I know you can! Fight it!", yelled Usopp. "Hey, Swordboy! I know what you're feeling, but you've gotta do what we came here for!", shouted Sanji. Across his shoulder, Zoro retorted, "I don't you to tell me that!"
Brook's group joined the room. Anjou took over watching Brymal, he was easy enough to control, while Brook and Bartlett stood watching the duel. Bosc was carefully taking in the situation. The queen beamed. "Nashiro! I knew you'd come Home." "Blow it", said Bosc dryly. She got flustered and lost control of Luffy at the distraction. Everything happened so fast, she'd lost track of them all. Brook held his sword near her throat and Bartlett stood by, dagger drawn. Luffy panted to catch his breath. "Do it", he said. "Last chance! Let him go!", said Zoro, hesitating. The Lady grinned maniacally. "Never!"
Bosc quickly took over for Brook. Luffy barely managed to block his attack from behind with a quick twist. Holding Brook's blade at bay, he knew it was their last chance. "Zoro!", screamed their captain. He knew what had to be done, making deep twin cuts in one swift motion. Luffy's wings fell to the floor as blood began pouring from his body. Grinning as he fell, Luffy said, "Finally..."
Chopper, Nami, and Bartlett ran to his side. Brook and Zoro stood back. "Luffy! Hang on!", cried Chopper. "Roll him onto his back", said Bartlett. "But that'll increase the bleeding!", argued the reindeer. "Do it!", she snapped. Nami rolled him over, laying his head in her lap. "It'll be over soon. Just relax, okay?", she assured with tears forming. Luffy smiled softly as his life seeped from his wounds. The hostless wings leaked silver fluids that mixed with his red blood upon the marble. Bartlett knelt beside him and raised her dagger. "What are you doing?!", panicked Chopper. Bartlett plunged it into her wrist with a twisting motion. Sliding it free, she held her arm forward and dripped her own blood into Luffy's gasping mouth. He looked at her with a pleading gaze. Squeezing the wound, she said, "Swallow it or you'll die." He closed his eyes and swallowed. His entire being shuddered with the act. Nami turned her face away, unable to stomach it. His friends gathered around to see the results.
Bartlett slapped his face. "Wake up! You can't quit now! You still need more!", she yelled. Luffy shook his head, tears streaming from his face. She grabbed his collar and shook him. "You fool! All these people came here just to save you! Doesn't that mean something?!", she cried. He slowly gazed over the concerned faces that encircled him. Bartlett stared at him intently. "Are you going to let them down?", she asked. Again, he slowly shook his head. She nodded and dug her nails into her flesh, ripping the wound wider as it began to heal. Luffy did what he had to do. It took everything he had not to throw it back up. His whole body convulsed. Bartlett sighed in relief. "Good boy."
Luffy rolled to his side and wretched. His nakama stood by in concern as he collapsed. Nami touched his shoulder in concern. "Luffy?" He made no response. Usopp stood in disbelief. "Zoro...You really killed him...", he said. Zoro remained silent and looked away. The group morale was just about to hit zero when Chopper shouted in excitement. "Nami, look! His back!", exclaimed the doctor. She tore what was left of his shirt and let out a breath of relief. "The wounds are closing", she said.
The whole crew sighed, thankful. Bartlett watched his body tremble and contort. She had done her part. Brook stepped forward cautiously. She turned with a self-
satisfied grin and passed out onto the floor. Kneeling down, he said, "Thank you...Rosario." He scooped her into his arms and pulled her from the mix of pooling fluids. Bosc whistled to get attention and nodded toward her seeping wrist. "Your turn, Brook", said Bosc. "What?", he asked, confused. "It's a surprise", replied the dhampire, coyly grinning. He looked over the faces before him and into her unconscious smile. "What'll happen?", asked Usopp. Anjou was sitting on Brymal. "One way to find out...Eh, Daddy?", she said.
Swift glances were exchanged among all present. Brook himself didn't know how to react. Slowly, he knelt back down to the floor and laid her gently down. Gazing at her peaceful grin, he knew Anjou was telling the truth. Bosc smiled to himself and waited for his response. "If you don't hurry, the wound will close and you'll lose your chance", stated Bosc. "But why - ", began Brook. Tossing him a trinket, Anjou called, "Just do it!" He caught it and looked to his nakama for direction. Solemnly, they nodded. He took a deep breath and raised her wrist to his teeth. Hesitating only briefly, he bit down and drank deeply. Bosc laughed. "Finally, someone bites her back", he taunted. Anjou crossed toward them and knelt beside him. She lowered Bartlett's arm and tied the trinket around his neck. Holding out her own arm, she made a slit. "One more ingredient", she grinned. He searched her eyes and was assured by her smile. Something wondrous was going to happen.
"...Ugh...Where am I?", groaned Luffy. "Luffy! How do you feel?!", inquired Chopper. Luffy tried to sit up, but collapsed back down; His strength was gone. Nami rolled him onto his back again and he smiled up at her. "Thanks, guys", he said weakly. He looked over at Zoro, who was avoiding eye contact. "Hey...Nice aim." Zoro smiled lightly and nodded toward him. "You'd have done the same for me", said the swordsman. Luffy grinned wide. Robin held Brymal tight and Bosc had the queen captive.
"Brook!", exclaimed Usopp. Everyone turned to see. He wobbled with blood across his boney face and fell over. Anjou smiled and stretched him out beside his love. Making a victory sign, Anjou said, "Aren't my parents cute?" Nervous looks were passed around. No one was sure how take the news, with all that was happening. Anjou stepped over them and skipped toward her uncle. Glaring at the queen, she asked, "What about her?" "Easy enough", replied Bosc. Shouting to the others, he called, "Zoro! Franky! I'll need some help." Brymal struggled to get free. "My Lady!", he cried in alarm. The queen had silently waited for just right moment. She dug her nails into Bosc's arm like needles. His wings flew open without control and she managed to escape his grasp. She turned to flee, but realized she was surrounded. Zoro, Nami, Franky, Usopp, and Sanji all stood in an arc about her.
Sanji flicked his cigarette. "Going somewhere?", he inquired. The Lady smiled pleasantly. "My dear, you know I wanted to keep you all forever, but your selfish captain wouldn't share", she pleaded. "Don't you dare talk about him! He nearly died for us!", shouted Usopp. "Nearly?", she said coyly. Nami and Usopp turned to look, but Chopper nodded all was well. In that split moment, she'd managed to grab a hold of Nami's arm. "Minore, you understand, right? What woman wouldn't want eternal youth and beauty?", said the queen. Pulling free, she said, "My name is Nami."
Bosc had regained control of himself and surged forward, angry as ever. The queen spun to meet him. "Nashiro, my love...", she began. He paused, smiling calmly at her and she perked up with hope. Perhaps her injection had worked. Searching his eyes, she whispered, "Nashiro?" "My Lady", he grinned. She smiled and stepped closer to hug him. As soon as she moved, he dropped the act and held her fast. "Zoro, now! Cut off her wings!", yelled Bosc. Thrashing in panic, she screamed, "No!"
One careful slash was all it took. Her wings may have looked like glass, but they weren't. The shiny exterior wrinkled as the fluids poured from the wounds. The mysterious blue swirls began to rise into the air as if evaporating, emitting a noise that almost sounded like small voices laughing. The Lady fell to the floor and scratched at the fluid with her hands in panic. "No! Come back to me! I love you! I need you!", she shouted. As the last of her wings collapsed, Brymal passed out before seeing her true form. She struggled to stand as her body rapidly deteriorated. She smiled defiantly at the crew as she shriveled into an old woman that barely looked human. Bosc caught her as she fell. Setting her down gently, he said, "Easy there, old timer." "What is that?", asked Sanji in disgust. "An ancestor", replied Bosc. "She's of a breed older than any of us - Probably the last of her kind", he added. "We can hope", said Nami wryly.
Robin released Brymal's sleeping body to the ground and came over to investigate. Nami shuttered and doubled over. Catching her, Sanji cried, "Nami-san! Are you all right?!" One by one they each followed suit. They convulsed and wretched out something unidentifiable. When they managed to regain their composure, their wings had simply melted away. Even Luffy's disembodied wings had become nothing more than sludge. "Are you guys okay?!", panicked Chopper. Franky looked across their distressed faces. "Good thing I didn't have 'em", he said. Sanji sent him a dirty look as he rose. Helping Nami to her feet, he said, "Glad that's over." "No kidding", said Usopp, teetering. Luffy sat up dizzily. "Is everyone okay?", asked the captain. "Luffy!", cried Nami as she rushed back to his side.
The crew gathered around him and Bosc led Anjou off to the side. "Well, Dr. Chopper?", asked Sanji, kneeling nearby. "He's gonna be okay", nodded Chopper. Robin smiled softly. "Thank goodness", she sighed. "You really had us worried there", said Franky. Luffy laughed nervously. "I'm okay, but only thanks to you guys...and Bartlett!", he said. Looking around, he asked, "Where is she?" Nami gave him a funny look. He didn't seem remember anything after she had restored him. "She's over there on the floor with Brook. I guess she couldn't handle it as easily as she made us believe", explained Usopp. Luffy clenched his hand open and closed, ensuring he was back in control. "When she wakes up, I wanna thank her", he said.
They all turned abruptly at an excited shrill from Anjou. She was jumping up and down. "It's working, Bosc! It's really working!", she squealed. "What is?", asked Usopp, unsure of what was happening. "Brook drank her blood, too", supplied Robin. "Yeah, but it couldn't possibly...Could it?", ventured the sniper. Zoro cocked an eyebrow. "We're about to find out", he stated. Bartlett sat up, holding her head in her hand. Bosc knelt down to support her swaying form. "Welcome back", said Bosc. She glanced at her wrist and saw that most of the wound had closed. Struggling to focus her vision, she inquired, "How's Straw-Hat?" "Just fine. You did good", replied her brother.
Anjou was giggling wildly. Bartlett turned to see what the commotion was about. "Anjou, what are you - ", she began. Seeing Brook, she uttered, "My god...How - " Bosc laughed. "That would be Anjou's doing", he grinned. Bartlett gave her daughter an accusing look. Anjou grinned innocently. "I used the amulet you gave me...And a little blood magic", she ceded. Brook sat up in a daze. He'd heard what was said, but couldn't believe it. Staring at his trembling hand, he whispered, "How long?" He was in shock. He had...skin. "Probably just a few hours at most. That kind of restoration magic isn't usually used for this type of thing", replied Bosc.
Luffy turned and smiled wide when he espied his friend. "Awesome! Hey, Brook! Welcome back to the living!", he called. Brook patted himself down in disbelief. "You, too", he said. Turning to Bartlett, he added, "I'm dreaming, aren't I?" She smiled warmly and squeezed him tight. She couldn't possibly describe what it felt like to be back in his warm arms. He laughed and held her close. This was impossible and yet it was happening. He pushed her away gently and looked up at Anjou. Slowly getting up, everyone gasped to see him in the flesh. "What the Hell?", gasped Sanji. "How did that happen?!", exclaimed Franky. "The Grand Line's full of mysteries", shrugged Zoro.
Brook was much taller than Anjou, but smiled at her gently. "How about giving your old man a hug?", he ventured. She grinned and jumped into his arms. Bartlett didn't care that everyone knew; She just smiled to herself. "What? You mean - ?", asked Luffy. "Well, she is a dhampire. That would explain her youth", replied Robin. "Way to go, Brook!", teased Sanji. Slowly everyone got to their feet and headed out from the palace. The queen had reverted so far, she would never come back. Brymal was carried out to his waiting sister. Many things whirled through each person's head that no one noticed when Bartlett, Anjou, and Brook disappeared. They had more to discuss than anyone. Bosc headed to the pier to check on the few villagers. They were confused, but unharmed. Most of them didn't even remember their queen or her wonderful gifts. Arrangements were made for those who wished to leave while Luffy and his crew rested.
Elsewhere in the palace, Bartlett and Brook stood viewing the sunset. Anjou was prancing about on the banister several feet away, oblivious to their conversation. "You know I never - ", began Bartlett. "I know", cut in Brook. Turning toward him, she said, "But you don't even know what I was going to say." "It was about your crew and your reputation, right?", he replied. She shied her gaze away. "Even if you did do all the things I've heard about, I wouldn't care", he stated. "How can you say that?", she asked. He pulled her into a tight embrace. "To me, you're still the same girl I left behind all those years ago. Let's not talk about our time apart. We only have a few hours like this; Let's enjoy them", he said softly. Bartlett smiled wholeheartedly. "Yes."
She leaned in and kissed him deeply. Neither of them budged despite Anjou's teasing 'Eeewwww's. She laughed and left to rejoin her uncle. She could talk with her father later. "About Anjou...", said Bartlett. "Does she want a sibling?", teased Brook. She giggled and leaned against him. So few precious hours, so little time to catch up on fifty lost years... "It's a shame...", she sighed. "What is?", he inquired. "We'll never get another chance like this again...ever... (squeezing him tight) I don't want it to end", she replied, squeezing him close. "Neither do I", he agreed. She stepped back and smiled so warmly, his now beating heart melted. Taking his hand, she said, "Let's make the most it." He cocked an eyebrow, unsure of where he was going and not caring. This was his one chance to truly live again and he wasn't about to miss a second of it.
Back at the Sunny, Chopper carefully examined each nakama. Leaning back, he sighed, his work complete. "Well?", asked Usopp. "You're all back to normal", said the doctor. "All right!", exclaimed Luffy. "Glad to hear it", smiled Robin. "What was it like to fly?", inquired Franky. Nami smiled nervously. It's hard to explain", she said. "It was better than playing puppet", grumbled Luffy.
Sanji brought out refreshments and everyone dug in. "What about Brook?", he asked. "Yeah, it's all pretty weird", said Usopp. Stuffing his face, Luffy replied, "He'll come back. He won't stay like that." "How do you know?", asked Nami. "Anjou told me", he replied with stuffed cheeks. Zoro chugged down a mug of rum. "How'd they do it, anyway?", he asked. "Something about it only worked because they were related", shrugged Luffy. "What about that pendant?", inquired Sanji. "Probably a talisman of some sort. I'd like a closer look, myself", said Robin. "Maybe you can have it when he's done with it", teased Usopp. "Do you think she really knew all along?", ventured Nami. Wiping his mouth, Luffy asked, "Knew what?" "Anjou. Who she was...They said they found her", she said. Lighting up, Sanji replied, "Who knows? We can always ask her later." "Yeah! She'll tell *you* anything", taunted Usopp. "Shut up", glared the chef. "Since when do you turn down anyone in a skirt?", smirked Zoro. He started seething, but Luffy's laughter broke the tension. Everyone relaxed and waited for their friend to come back. After while, Bosc and Anjou returned.
"Villagers are all accounted for", stated Anjou. "We'll drop off those who wish to leave", said Bosc. "But why would they leave? They've got the whole island to themselves now", said Chopper. Sitting on the railing, Bosc replied, "They may not remember anything, but that won't stop the eerie feeling they have when they look to the mountain peaks." Anjou sneaked close to Sanji and smiled wide at him. "Wanna talk a walk?", she asked. Sanji met her stare nervously. "Oh, just go", said Nami. Anjou grabbing his arm. "Yay!", she beamed. Being dragged away, Sanji tried to argue, "But Nami-san!" Robin chuckled at the situation. "Don't worry. If nothing else, he might come back a little...drained", said Bosc. "It'd serve him right", said Zoro. "Yeah, maybe he'll learn to leave the ladies alone for a while", joked Usopp. Bosc grinned coyly. "Speaking of which, either of you ladies mind parting with a little blood?", he ventured. "Sure", smiled Robin. "Robin! You're not serious!", exclaimed Nami. "Well, it is thanks to their crew that ours is free to the leave the island intact", shrugged Robin. Bosc hopped down from his perch. "Excellent!", he said. "You're really gonna let him feed off you?", asked Franky. Snatching the last of the food, Luffy said, "It's not so bad."
Nami sighed and hung her head in defeat; There was no point arguing. Bosc bowed and took Robin by the hand and they wandered below deck. "Creepy...", shuddered Usopp. "But she just got better!", cried Chopper. Zoro leaned on the wall. "Don't worry about it", he said. "She'll be all right", assured Franky. Chopper sighed and began putting up his equipment. It would be a long night.
A few days had passed and everyone had fully recovered. They were glad to leave the darkened isle behind them. It had grown eerie and began to small of rotten flesh as the queen's illusions broke down. Zoro watched from a distance as the Harlots bid everyone goodbye. Brook was the last to leave them. When he boarded the Sunny, Zoro grinned as if he'd been waiting for him. "Interesting friends", he said. "It was good to see them again", replied Brook, glancing back. Luffy jumped down from the banister. "They really saved our butts", he said. Glancing about, Brook suddenly realized all eyes were on him. "Will you be okay?", asked Usopp. "This only adds to the good memories I have of them", assured Brook. "You'll see them again", grinned Luffy.
On the Harlot ship, Bartlett and Anjou leaned upon the railing as they watched the island shrink from view. Bosc discarded his current arm candy and smirked. "Get over it, you two", he said.. Bartlett sent him a quiet look. "I already miss him", sniffled Anjou. "How can miss your father already? You just met him", replied Bosc. Turning with moist eyes, she cried, "I miss Sanji-kun! Whaaa!" Bartlett hung her head in response. "It's called a crush for reason, Kiddo. They tend to hurt", snickered Bosc. Anjou suddenly struck a proud pose, thrusting her fist into the sunrise. "I'll come back for you!...He will be mine!", she shouted. Bartlett's eye twitched. "Bosc, I blame you for this", she said.
"Why?!", he asked. "I wonder...", she said flatly.
It would be several years before they all once again reunited, but they would always remember their time in the skies.
THE END