LiveMan: Thanks, you kinda misunderstood my point though. I don't think they ever really specified what Crocodile did to keep the drought going but it seems like his devil fruit power. Anywho, I'm glad you like the story and I appreciate the kind words.
Cyrusgripe: Thanks, um I'm not sure what you mean by that question. Miguel is getting his bounty after Enies Lobby but I don't know if that's what you were getting at.
Jason Vander Vlugt: Thank you.
With the battle over, Vivi took her friends to the palace to allow them some rest. The crew (with the exception of Luffy) slept for a day while the captain had yet to wake up.
Miguel smiled as he watched Chopper dance bashfully when one of the palace doctors praised his skills. The reindeer deserved plenty of praise, for he had been the one to tend to all their injuries with ease. He was as humble as usual but at the same time, yelling for the man to stop in embarrassment.
Chuckling to himself, Miguel flew to a higher level of the palace before landing. After requipping his wind sword, the young man cast Foresight Wind.
Usopp and Nami had asked him late last night if he could find the Merry Go. With all the chaos that went down recently, they hadn't been able to keep track of the ship. Nami had a rough estimate of its whereabouts so he would start from there.
Since the spell worked so much better now that Miguel was in an open area, he was able to use it well. After a short while, he found something that made him stop in his tracks...
At an area near one of Alubarna's exits...
''Ara, well this is surprise.'' Miss All Sunday remarked. ''I didn't expect anyone to find me.''
Miguel's eyes narrowed as he cancelled the Meteor spell, landing just behind her. ''I was looking for something and I noticed you...here I thought I was seeing things. Should you really be here in this situation?''
''I suppose curiosity got the better of me.'' was the response. ''But I have no intention of staying at any rate, I'm merely looking for a way to get off the island. That being said-you're awfully calm for someone facing an enemy.''
''If you were an enemy now, you'd do more to show it.'' He pointed out dryly. ''Everything I've picked up about you just proves that you're not the type who'd rush in, guns blazing. Besides, a fight isn't going to do either of us any good.''
''Hm, fair point.''
''...You know, all I've heard about proves that you're actually doing this for your own reasons.'' Miguel said after a moment. This had been bothering him ever since yesterday. ''...Was that all just to get to the poneglyph?''
Now that, she didn't expect. ''You know about...?''
''A few of our teachers back home had contacts with the archaelogists who studied them. They didn't know enough to get to work on them for sure but if they had kept at it, it might have worked. I figured there was one here after what the king told us.'' Miguel closed his eyes for a moment as he recalled what he learned. ''...I thought they were the only ones who could read that strange language though.''
''Let's just say knowledge can extend far more than one might think.'' She returned. ''At any rate, all I've done to reach my goal has been pointless...I would have been dead-and preferred as much in fact, if your captain hadn't interfered.''
He frowned. Did that mean she wanted to...?
''...Maybe you're just not looking in the right places.'' Miguel wasn't sure what prompted him to say this but he didn't want to stop. He'd just had enough of seeing death with what happened back in Elysia. So much so that he couldn't just leave things be after hearing what she said. ''There's a whole bunch of those things, right? I might be stretching it but this must be important if you're willing to go along with Crocodile's wishes like that.''
''What makes you think that wasn't all there was to it?''
''Just a feeling...for one thing, you wouldn't have helped Luffy in the desert if you were just like him and the rest of that bunch. And...'' Miguel paused. ''...somehow you just gave me this impression that you could've done more to get in our way before but didn't.''
Ah, Miss All Sunday inwardly smiled wryly. Perhaps she really wasn't giving him enough credit. He was far more perceptive than it looked.
He turned to leave ''Anyway, I guess all I'm saying is if that goal is important-shouldn't you keep fighting for it? Even when things are at their lowest point, they can improve so I don't think one should just give up.''
''...You're kind, perhaps too much so.'' Robin said after a moment, concealing her surprise. ''What would you do if we meet again as enemies then?''
''I'll cross that bridge when the time comes.'' He returned, almost facing her. ''And...maybe it's just a bit of selfishness on my part. You'd have to be at Elysia to understand but...after all we've seen, I'd hate to just see someone giving up on life and not try to do anything about it.''
''I see...well, I suppose we'll have to cross that bridge later then indeed.'' She turned to leave.
Seconds later, Miguel noticed a pair of hands sprouting in front of him before both pointed south west. He blinked twice and looked back at Miss All Sunday just as they faded away but she just kept walking.
Did she actually know...?
Raising his sword again, Miguel supposed the hint could be useful and so recast Foresight Wind in that direction. Thus he missed how she looked back for a moment in satisfaction before heading on her way.
Nami picked up a book ''Oh, so you found Merry?''
''Mmhm, she's not too far away from the Sandora river. I think I can get everyone over there well enough.'' Miguel offered.
''Good.'' The two of them were in the palace's library. Cobra had gladly allowed them to browse the present collection and keep whatever books they wanted.
Miguel had no idea how Miss All Sunday knew their ship's location but he wasn't about to look a gift horse in the mouth. He decided to keep the details of that encounter to himself though, thinking that Nami was likely not going to take it well. He didn't regret what he said to Miss All Sunday though, enemy or not, no one should just give up on life.
''You look like you've hit the jackpot.'' He remarked.
Nami grinned ''That obvious, huh? Well, let's just say the king has great taste.'' She went back to one of the bookshelves.
''So hey, I was wondering...about that spell you used to deal with the bomb. What inspired that?''
The navigator knew immediately that she had touched on a difficult subject by the way his shoulders momentarily stiffened. She was about to say that he didn't have to explain if he didn't want to, but Miguel spoke up ''Yeah, it was my girlfriend. She taught it to me. All I did was adapt it to work with my magic.''
Nami found herself curious to know what that girl was like. Miguel was good-looking and she had seen enough from him to know that any girl who won his affections would be lucky. She had no doubt that he would treat her very well.
But then she remembered something else he had mentioned. Cenas Arrow was meant to be in her memory. Which could only mean...
''Her name was Sarah.'' Miguel stated. ''We actually met on a blind date.''
''Really?'' Nami arched an eye. ''How'd that work out? It's just that blind dates always seem...''
''Like a terrible idea?'' He finished for her. ''Yeah, we both thought so. Our friends set us up and it made her really mad. They did it partly to help cheer her up after her last attempts at dating but...let's just say it really blew up in their faces. That day was the point they were all convinced to never spring surprises on her again. I think only the fact that I was dragged into this mess too spared me from the worst of it.''
''She sounds...intense.''
''Yeah...'' Miguel smiled wistfully. ''...I imagine you guys would've liked her. We ran into each other a few days later and she apologized to me. I asked if we could get to know one another without any annoying schemes in the way and she totally agreed.''
''Somehow I get this feeling you've had some colorful times.'' Nami couldn't help but remark.
''Oh yeah, that's for sure.'' He returned. Thinking of Sarah still hurt at times but it was nice to look back on these memories. ''Strange beginnings aside, we actually hit off really well. We'd been pretty good friends for quite a while before we started to date. She was really bold and creative, we came up with all those ideas to help back home. We even got started on a couple of them. That's where my idea to go to the other oceans came from.''
As he talked more a bit more about their plans, Nami could sense how much Miguel cared for Sarah and how he missed her. They had been very close and while he may have planned to travel, he would never leave her behind if he could help it.
''At some point, I thought maybe...'' Miguel faltered. ''...things were going so well. I felt maybe...I wondered if she'd want to...''
Her eyes widened ''You were going to propose?''
''I was thinking of it.'' He admitted sheepishly. ''I liked traveling and going on adventures like my parents and she was more than okay with that. She even wanted to come-I talked to my aunt and uncle and they helped me straighten my feelings out. I knew I wanted to be with her.''
Nami's heart went out to him. She could tell just by the way he talked before but this was definite proof. He had loved Sarah.
''The last time...'' Miguel closed his eyes for a moment. ''...we were in Port Dianeira when...''
''That port...wait, you mean-?!'' Nami's eyes went wide and he nodded. So they had been there ever since the beginning of that horrible battle all along? Damn...
Miguel recalled how they had been seperated in all that chaos...how everything went to hell, how it all went up in flames when he tried to find her...
It was one of his worst memories ever, he was able to deal with it thanks to his family and friends. That nightmare was definitely a factor in his phobia. Even he was surprised at how much he told Nami, but at least it was nice to have a reminder that he could look back and remember the good times too.
Nami inwardly cursed the cruelty of the marines. This was yet another reminder of their failings. Look what they had done at her village and now this. So much for their vaunted justice, the bastards...
She wanted to offer her friend her sympathies, but she felt those words would be empty. He must have heard it many times before anyway. ''...So how've you been holding up?'' She gave a little groan. ''Sorry, I'm crap at this. That sounded better in my head.''
Miguel smiled a bit ''It's okay. I'm coping, at least-that's all I can say.''
''Really thought, you Elysians sure are resilient, I don't know how I'd deal with the kind of things that happened to you.'' She had to admit.
''Oh? I think we're all pretty resilient in our own ways. Even the people of Alabasta, they're already looking to fix things.'' Miguel returned. ''Life just goes on and we have to make the most of it, even if it may seem difficult. Look at us now, we're doing a pretty decent job.''
Nami began to smile ''No arguing here.''
Usopp poked his head out of the room where he was staying when he heard some noise, only to see Cobra and a few soldiers telling off a nervous looking marine. He also noticed Igaram standing not too far away, looking quite annoyed himself. ''Say, what's going on?''
''Hm? Oh, it looks like that fool was intent on storming in here to arrest the 'criminals' we'd been helping.'' The man informed, the sniper gulped at the thought. ''Don't worry, we're not about to let them in. They have no right to judge us given what we had to deal with. This is the least we can do after all you've done for us. Crocodile was as good as one of their own and look what he pulled off. It's why we couldn't get any help from them before, they were so convinced that everything was just fine.''
''When you put it like that...'' Usopp started. He hadn't considered this angle before but... ''...what's the point of the Shichibukai system then? It seems really easy for the pirates to use against the government, isn't it? Crocodile just proves that they get a lot of leeway. The chances of them being actually loyal to the government are slim to none. It's way more trouble than it's worth if you ask me.''
''I heard the Warlords were intended to be a balance between the Four Emperors and the Marines but I know just what you mean.'' Igaram nodded. ''This seems to be yet another flaw in the government's logic.''
Later on, in the infirmary...
Vivi and Chopper almost jumped when a loud cry reached their ears, making them look over to see Luffy sitting up in his bed.
The latter's face lit up ''Luffy!'' Vivi followed him with a growing smile.
Luffy blinked ''Oh hey...whoa, where's my hat?!''
''Here!'' Chopper held it up. ''Vivi found it after the fight was over.''
The rubber teen grinned and put it on ''Yup, I don't feel right without it!''
Sanji poked his head in ''What's going...oh, Luffy!''
''Yo, Sanji! Morning!''
''It's actually almost evening, you've been asleep for two days now.'' Vivi informed as the cook entered, followed by Miguel and Usopp.
''Two days?'' Luffy blinked, freaking out then. ''AH! I MISSED TEN MEALS!''
''You sure can count when it comes to food!'' Usopp cried.
Miguel looked amused ''I'm more surprised he's only counting five meals and not more.''
Vivi laughed at this but Sanji looked pained, thinking it was a valid point ''Don't even joke about that...''
''It's all right, Luffy, the food will be ready soon.'' Vivi assured, making the teen grin.
''So hey, what's happened?'' He wanted to know.
''Nothing much, we've just been resting up and lying low. We were waiting for you to wake up.'' Chopper informed.
''Really? So where are Nami and Zoro?''
''Nami said she wants to take a walk in the garden but Zoro...ah...'' Miguel faltered, exchanging an awkward glance with Vivi as they thought about the swordsman, to Luffy's confusion.
The teen was even more bewildered when Sanji snickered ''See, Moss head got in way over his head.''
The captain was alarmed ''Wait, what? You mean one of Crocodile's guys beat him?!''
Sanji blinked, realizing he worded that wrong ''Oh, my bad. I didn't mean it like that. He actually woke up pretty early and decided to get back to training, said something about mastering some new power...'''
''Okay...?'' Luffy blinked, that didn't sound so bad.
''Zoro really messed up with Chopper.'' Usopp stated.
The little doctor harrumphed ''I told him to let himself recuperate at least for a day, but he completely ignored me. Miguel was still too out of it to try healing him back then and he just wouldn't listen, he could've easily reopened his wounds so...''
He didn't get further than that as the infirmary's door was pushed open and the subject of their conversation walked in, looking irate. ''Damn you, Chopper! What'd you tie me up like that for?!''
Chopper glared back ''You deserved it! I told you, you should rest for a bit. Training all the time is not good for your health!''
Zoro scoffed ''I'm fine, I'm not going to waste anymore time.''
''That wasn't wasting time!'' The doctor cried.
''It is to me.''
The others sighed at this, they all agreed with Chopper but this looked like a lost cause. The argument had been going on for quite sometime and Zoro was clearly determined to do things his own way.
''All that went in one ear and out the other...'' Usopp muttered, though he stiffened and hid behind Miguel when Zoro glared at him.
''Oh, thanks so much for the help, you all.'' The swordsman grunted, the sarcasm clear as day in his tone.
Sanji rolled his eyes and Vivi huffed ''You're entirely unreasonable, Mr. Bushido. Tony was in his rights to enforce bed rest. Don't expect help if you were in the wrong.''
Miguel was similarly unfazed by the first mate's anger ''Exactly. I specifically warned you not to push your luck. You made your own bed so you had to lie in it.'' He easily brushed off the dark look Zoro aimed at him then as he added. ''On another note, look who's up.''
Zoro blinked, pausing as he noticed an amused Luffy watching the entire thing. The captain laughing then ''You're such a dope, Zoro!''
''SHUT UP!'' The latter retorted but the rest just laughed.
They were joined shortly afterwards by Nami, who came along with a woman who brought some food along. Luffy's attention was naturally on the food but most of the others couldn't help but stare at the woman in surprise.
''...Is he cross-dressing again?'' Zoro asked Vivi.
''Eh?'' The princess blinked, suddenly remembering Igaram's plan back in Whiskey Peak. ''Oh, no, no! That's Igaram's wife, Terracotta.''
''...His wife?'' Sanji said blankly. A couple really, really shouldn't look so similar. It was downright unnatural!
Terracotta smirked at Luffy ''So I hear you eat a lot...''
''...Biggest understatement of this century.'' Usopp muttered.
''...do you think you can snack on this fruit until dinner time?'' She finished.
''Sure!'' Luffy chirped.
''It won't even last half that long.'' Miguel remarked from his seat next to Chopper, his eyes on the book in the reindeer's lap.
The reindeer's jaw dropped when Luffy proved this right in seconds, basically devouring everything. ''When-?!''
''Was that some kind of trick?!'' Sanji and Zoro cried while Terracotta's eyes went wide.
Chopper turned to Miguel, who still hadn't so much as looked up, he added. ''How did you...?''
''Chopper, it's Luffy.'' was all he could say to that.
''...Good point.''
When they headed over to have dinner, Luffy noticed a few palace workers talking to Miguel. He couldn't hear all what they were saying but the mention of Elysia had come up quite a few times...and it seemed like they knew who Miguel was for a while now...
Now curious, the captain decided to approach them as Miguel went to catch up with the others. ''Hey, you guys know Miguel or something?''
''Oh, not like that. It's just we're all from Elysia originally, you know? We've come here because of our families but we all do our best to help our home even if we weren't there.'' One of the workers informed.
''We were all inspired thanks to Miguel.'' Another added.
''Yeah, as if all the work he and his family put in wasn't plenty, he's been traveling around for months and getting our home the funds it needs. He's something of a hero to many in the homeland.'' A third explained. ''You're damn lucky to have that kid in your crew, Straw Hat. He's one of a kind.''
Luffy grinned ''I know. I wouldn't have it any other way!''
Dinner proved to be quite a chaotic affair, much to the chagrin of many of those present. They had no idea that it was par for the course when it comes to their guests.
Vivi loved the entire affair. It reminded her of the times on Merry, except this was much better because now her home was free after all those years. She was back home for real, it felt like a massive weight was off her shoulder and all thanks to her friends.
She couldn't help but giggle, her amusement rising as she heard Carue laugh while the cooks struggle to keep bringing food as Luffy ate what his hands could reach. The rest of the crew kept their shares away from his wandering hands. Miguel cast a shield on their side, making sure that Luffy's hands couldn't wander too far.
Luffy's haste almost wound up with him accidentally half-swallowing Chopper. This was remedied by Nami and Miguel, who proceeded, to smack the teen hard enough to distract him before keeping the poor frightened reindeer away.
''Luffy, you're the worst!'' Chopper wailed, clinging to Miguel.
He grinned ''Sorry, Chopper!''
The reindeer sweatdropped as Luffy went right back to eating as if nothing happened. Was his stomach a black hole or something...?
''This Alabastan food is great!'' Usopp exclaimed. ''Sanji, think you can remember enough of this stuff to make it in the future?''
''Already ahead of you.'' The cook returned. He was definitely going to learn as much as he could about this cuisine. ''Thanks, Miguel. Nice to know we can actually eat in some peace too.''
''I'll say.'' Nami threw a dark look in their greedy captain's direction. ''So, Vivi, you only told us a couple of stories but what it's really like growing up here?''
The princess began to smile ''Well, let's see...''
She happily regaled with some of her earlier days and soon most of the group was exchanging stories. Luffy's antics aside, it made for a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere. Everyone else was soon won over by the crew's antics, especially when they saw how happy Vivi was. That made it all worthwhile in their book, for their princess deserved nothing less.
The crew entered the bath houses along with Vivi, Igaram and Cobra. Luffy and Usopp hit their heads and fall after a race to see who made it first while the girls relaxed in the female's bath. Zoro helped bath Chopper, all ire from earlier forgotten.
Sanji looked at Igaram ''Say, where's the girls' bath?''
''Why would I tell you something like that?!'' He snapped.
''Just tell me, you know you'd like to take a look too...'' The cook whispered slyly.
''OF COURSE NOT!''
''He sure doesn't waste any time.'' Miguel remarked idly.
Zoro snorted ''Stupid cook...''
Cobra surprised most of them by telling Sanji where it was, leaving Igaram even more angry than ever. Usopp hurried to join Sanji as he headed over, shortly followed by Luffy.
Chopper looked at Miguel and Zoro. He had no interest in human females but their reaction left him curious''You guys aren't going?''
''Absolutely not.'' The second grunted. ''They're just being idiots anyway.''
''I'd have to agree there. Chances of them getting away with this are slim to none. Knowing Nami, she'll find a way to get back them.'' The first added, leaving them to agree.
Around the same time...
Nami and Vivi take time to do the other's back, overhearing the ruckus in the other side of the bath.
''This is just typical. Those idiots can't ever be quiet...'' Nami huffed.
Vivi just laughed ''They certainly are lively but I can't imagine them any other way.''
The former's lips twitched ''Same here. Miguel's the only sensible one there, those guys would've driven me crazy if he wasn't there.''
''I noticed when Tony joined the crew but Miguel really is the big brother type.'' Vivi mused. It was more apparent with the reindeer but in her opinion the dynamic was there even with the younger members of the crew to a point, even Nami.
Nami looked surprised before thinking that over ''You know, you're right...I can picture him as a really good big brother.''
The princess leaned against a rock ''I actually meant to ask about what he said in the tower...''
''Oh, that...well...'' Nami figured it couldn't hurt to explain. Vivi was a good friend after all. Hell, she was as good as a crew member at this point.
''What? That's terrible!'' Vivi uttered when the latter finished filling her in. She felt for their friend, what a cruel situation. ''So...''
The sound of odd laughter distracted her, making her look for the source until she noticed Sanji, Luffy, Usopp and to her shock, Igaram. Even her own father was hanging up there with them!
''Wha...why're you...what...?'' She stuttered, feeling the heat rush to her face.
''Now, now, there's nothing to worry about.'' Nami patted her shoulder. ''I'll take care of this...''
''Happiness Punch!''
On the other side, the three remaining Straw Hats saw all the group of peeping toms fall off the wall after Nami's cry.
Chopper seemed surprised when he saw Igaram and Cobra ''They went too?''
''Hypocrite.'' Zoro stated, looking at an embarrassed Igaram.
''They brought it on their heads. This was never going to turnout well.'' Miguel added.
As they were about to leave, Cobra faced the crew. ''I want to thank you all once again.''
Igaram's eyes widened while the rest seemed surprised when Cobra bowed ''Your majesty, think of your position. You shouldn't...!''
''My status as a king only exists with clothing.'' Cobra stated. ''Here, we're all equal so why shouldn't I bow? I'm not thanking them as king, but as a citizen of this proud kingdom...and as Vivi's father. Thank you for all you've done.''
''Heh, you're welcome.'' Sanji returned.
''Yeah, it was nothing for our mighty crew!'' Usopp boasted.
Miguel smiled ''We were glad to help.''
Luffy grinned ''Yup, Vivi's our friend. That's all the reason we needed.''
Igaram and Cobra couldn't help smiling at this, glad to know this extraordinary group. Pirates or not, there was no way they would be bad people. They were thankful beyond words that the Straw Hat crew had come to their nation, for the group had done far more than they could repay.
The following morning...
The crew got started on the plans to leave Alabasta, knowing that staying around would only invite trouble. The marines were no doubt going to guard the coast and they had to do this before they were in on their heads. They had been helped by a recovered Kohza, who knew of an area that the marines hadn't covered yet and advised them to go there.
This left Vivi torn, a part of her didn't want them to leave but she knew this was coming. She found that she would very much like to go with them if it were possible. But she didn't know what to do, Alabasta was still recovering from Crocodile's machinations. She felt that she owed it to her people to stay and help. At the same time, the idea of seeing her friends leave without her made her heart clench.
Her friends understood her dilemma, promising to give her sometime to decide for good. They had admitted that they would love to have her along, but in the end, it was her call.
''Excuse me?'' One of the guards walked into the hall, holding a Den Den Mushi. ''We've received a call for the Straw Hats.''
''Hold on-what? From who?'' Sanji demanded.
''I don't know, he claims to be your friend.'' The man returned, both paused as the device went off.
Sanji picked it up, frowning in confusion. Then, a voice cried out ''Hello, my friends! It's me!''
The blond's eye twitched and he swiftly hung up, immediately recognizing the voice just like the others had. Luffy seemed annoyed when the device ran again before picking up ''You've got some nerve saying we're friends, Mr. 2!''
''But we are!'' The okama protested. ''Look how well we hit off!''
''That was before we know you were with Baroque Works!'' Chopper countered.
''Yeah, you stupid okama, you can't pretend like nothing's changed!'' Usopp added.
''So hurtful!'' Mr. 2 whined. ''You have to understand! I didn't hide it, I didn't even know who you were at the time...''
''Oh, spare us the excuses.'' Zoro cut in. ''I'm not in the mood to hear put up with your crap. What the hell are you calling us for now anyway?''
The answer came quickly ''I've got your ship!''
Most of the crew stiffened at while Vivi's eyes widened before Luffy and Usopp cried ''STOP JOKING AROUND!''
''You jerk!'' Chopper snapped.
''I should've kicked him harder...'' Sanji ground out.
''You're the worst!'' Usopp cried.
Mr. 2 let out a groan as they continued taking shots at him ''Come on, I'm actually trying to...why do you keep talking like that?!''
Miguel couldn't help but wonder if this had to do with Miss All Sunday pointing him towards Merry's direction before. With that in mind, he stifled any annoyance he felt with the okama to ask ''You do know dragging this out is just digging your grave in deeper, right? Get to the point.''
They could hear the former agent gulp, clearly noticing how everyone was growing more and more agitated ''R-right...well, I did it to make sure the marines wouldn't get your sweet little caravel!''
Luffy, Usopp and Chopper gaped at the Den Den Mushi. ''You were helping us?'' The first clarified.
''Of course!'' Mr. 2 chirped. ''I said it before, didn't I? You're my friends. I'd do anything for friends!''
The trio began to grin at this, quickly apologizing to him and the four soon celebrated their repaired friendship. The others weren't nearly as convinced. It didn't take the rest of the crew long to notice what Mr. 2 wasn't saying here.
Vivi, who also had suspicions of her own, cleared her throat to get the trio's attention ''I think there's more where that came from.''
''What do you mean?'' Usopp asked.
''Oh, just that he's full of hot-air.'' Zoro stated, looking at the Den Den Mushi. ''Friendship? Tell the truth, Twinkle Toes. The marines are guarding the coast so you wouldn't have much of a prayer getting out of here on your own but you MIGHT if you have us at your side.''
Silence fell as Luffy, Usopp and Chopper gaped at him and Mr. 2 spluttered, though the fact that he remained very silent spoke volumes.
''That's why?!'' Chopper cried while Miguel and Sanji exchanged dry looks, their suspicions confirmed.
''Ah, it's not like I was lying!'' Mr. 2 added quickly, clearly trying to salvage the situation. ''I swear, it was true. I'll even tell you where the ship is and leave it...''
''Oh, save it.'' Nami interrupted. ''It's in the far east side of the Sandora River, near Erumalu.''
''How'd you know?!''
The navigator smirked ''That's for us to know and you to find out.'' She hung up without missing a beat. ''That was very satisfying-all right, let's go!''
With their preparations made, the Straw Hats left on the Super Spot Billed Duck Troops, a family of super fast birds led by Carue. The seven ducks were able to get them to their destination with ease. They found Merry just as Mr. 2 promised and the agent's ship wasn't too far away.
Chopper noticed Nami looking down once they were all onboard ''What's wrong?''
When she didn't respond, he tried again ''Are you feeling sick?''
''Nami, you want a piece of my meat?'' Luffy offered, thinking it may make her feel better. ''But only one.''
''That only works for you...'' Usopp deadpanned. Seriously, when was he going to learn that meat wasn't the answer to everything?
''Nami-san, this is about Vivi-chan, right?'' The cook guessed, seeing her sigh then. ''I know you were good friends and we would've loved to have her but this can't be helped. Cheer up!'' Nami's expression didn't change. ''Nami-san...''
She sighed again ''I'm giving it up...My one billion berri, for Vivi.''
Sanji's eyes widened while Luffy and Usopp fell over in disbelief. ''Of course you are!'' The two cried.
Chopper was confused but Zoro rolled his eyes as he cottoned on to what this was about.
''Oh, that deal back from Whiskey Peak...'' Miguel realized, sweatdropping. ''...you were thinking about that all along?''
''That was just about the money?!'' Usopp cried.
''You're totally misleading!'' Sanji added.
''What's with you all? There's no use worrying about Vivi.'' Nami stated.
Zoro's eye twitched ''Typical...damn, what a witch...''
''And stay out!''
Igaram was tossed out of the room by his angry wife, who slammed the door then. Okay, he may have deserved that. Especially seeing that he almost walked in on Vivi whiel she was changing. But really, he was just so worried...
''So just what are you doing there?''
The man stiffened, looking up to see an amused Cobra watching him ''Y-your majesty...! I just...well...''
''...You went in to make sure Vivi was still there, didn't you?'' Cobra chuckled at the man's surprised look. ''You weren't nearly as quiet as you thought, Igaram. I admit, I know she liked being with the Straw Hats but I trust Vivi to make the best choice.''
''So even if the princess had left...?''
''As a king I would love for her to stay, I couldn't think of a better sucessor. But as a father, I'd tell her to follow her heart. It's a dilemma.'' The man admitted. ''Vivi loves Alabasta so much though, I don't think she would ever abandon this country. It's just a matter of having faith.''
Igram smiled ''...Yes.''
Cobra glanced at the room's window, seeing Vivi wearing an elegant dress. She looked so much like her mother. His wife would've been delighted to see how far Vivi had come along, it was a true marvel. Vivi may have much more to learn before she was ready to be queen but he would trust no one more with the future of their country.
Given the Straw Hats' abrupt departue, they were able to get a good start. The area Kohza suggested had yet to be blockaded by any marines and thus it was perfect for them to sail.
As it were, the marines were left trying to catch up to them. A few ships tried to box them in but Miguel manipulated the water to their advantage by following Nami's instructions. This seperated Hina's ships further, causing chaos among their ranks. Usopp fired the cannons at them while the ships retaliated with their black spears. Luffy managed to handle a good amount of those but some struck the ship. The runes enhancing Merry had raised its durability well though, greatly reducing the damage. The group continued fighting and defending the ship, their teamwork proving very effective.
''Jeez, they won't quit!'' Usopp groaned as more spears came their way.
Seeing the gathered number of spears gave Miguel an idea, he quickly cast gravity magic on the closest ships to slow them down. He then sent the spears back with telekinesis magic, damaging them enough to force them to a stop.
''Way to go.'' Zoro smirked while Chopper cheered and Miguel smiled.
Nami gave their quartermaster a thumbs up ''Now that's some real good thinking!''
''You guys are amazing!'' Mr. 2 exclaimed. ''You all made that look easy. What teamwork!''
''Oi, concentrate, we're not done yet!'' Zoro returned, pointing out the fact that the mainship and a couple of others remained.
''Yeah, I got it! But wouldn't it be easier if you guys just left? We already have a good opening.'' Bon Clay returned.
''We can't!''
He blinked and Luffy continued ''We have to go see a friend, no matter what.''
''What?! You're doing this...for a friend?'' The okama had a strange expression. ''This must be a special friend.''
''She absolutely is.'' Sanji stated.
''...All right, what can I do to help?'' The question made everyone look at him in surprise. ''Hey, told you I was being honest. I'd do anything for a friend. I totally want to help you!''
Some of his men protested but many others merely sighed, clearly used to his attitude. It showed that he really did seem to be truthful here.
Sanji smirked, deciding to seize this chance ''Actually, I have an idea and you'd be perfect for it...''
The cook took Bon Clay and Zoro, having the former disguise himself as a marine who pretended he had captured them all. He'd even set himself up to appear weak and injured, reasoning that if anyone asked about his clothes, he'd cite that it was far too damage in a fight. Bon Clay's crew lay low, disguises ready in hand. It may be a shot in the dark but even if it didn't work, it would give them an opening to fight close up.
''...Oh, knock it off!''
Sanji glanced at Zoro, who was glaring at the sobbing Bon Clay ''He's whining because his shirt was had to get messy.''
''You want to get thrown in jail instead?!'' The cook snapped.
''N-no...'' The former agent mumbled. ''...my princples...the thought of ruining clothes like that...''
The plan had almost failed when they stumbled near the ship where the marine captain Hina was but Bon Clay diverted their course towards another one. It helped that the others were still fighting hard and this made some of the marines believe that they wanted their crewmtes back. With this, the three jumped on the opportunity and took down all the marines on the ship, leaving then. But not before before Sanji blasted the second enemy ship with their cannons.
''...You sure about this?'' Luffy asked as some of Bon Clay's crew set things up to pretend that they were the Straw Hats.
''It's fine, it's fine, Straw-chan.'' Bon Clay assured. ''You guys really bailed us out. We'd be up the creek without the paddle without you all. We can handle things from here, you go see your friend.''
''Bon Clay...'' Chopper's eyes watered.
''Thanks for this.'' Miguel added.
''I'm sorry we doubted you, you really are a great friend!'' Usopp declared.
The okama beamed ''That's all I needed to hear, this gratitude means the world to me. Don't worry about us now, keep going, no matter what!''
The Straw Hats arrived at the port where they agreed to meet Vivi earlier, but it was empty.
''...No one's here...'' Chopper looked down.
''They're all at the speech we heard about this morning.'' Zoro reminded. ''You know what this means, right? Vivi's not coming.''
''No, she is, defintely!'' Luffy argued.
The swordsman expected such a response and so he continued ''Looks like her path is different than ours.''
''You're wrong!'' The captain argued. ''She'll be here, she promised!''
''Luffy...'' Nami bit her lip. ''...we can all hear the speech, it's a huge day for her. She made her choice.''
But the teen remained stubborn in his belief and thus they waited. Nothing happened for a bit but then Chopper spotted Carue running towards the harbor, all of them immediately recognizing the duck's rider, Vivi had arrived!
''Vivi, Carue!'' The doctor beamed.
The princess was glad she could make it now. With Igaram taking her place before her coming of age speech, she and Carue could see their friends off. As much as she loved the crew, she knew what she had to do.
''Everyone, I've come to say good bye!''
Luffy stopped at this, his expression falling. But the princess was explaining herself ''It would be amazing to join you, to go on more adventures. But as much as I would like that, I love my country with all my heart. That's why I think it's best for me to stay here.''
Luffy began to smile at this, seeing the understanding settling in with everyone. While they would like for her to remain with them, her reasons were understandable. At least, she had come to say goodbye, giving this matter the closure it needed.
''So, I know we have to go our separate ways but...when we meet again in the future...'' Vivi started, tearing up. ''...will you still call me your friend?''
The captain grinned, like she needed to ask! ''OF...''
Nami grabbed his arm to stop him ''Don't. The marines aren't too far from here, odds are, they might hear us. If they know Vivi's associated with us, she'll be branded a criminal.''
''But...'' Chopper started. Did they have to leave like this?
''No, she's right.'' Zoro cut in. ''All of you, turn around. We can't say more now.''
''...Yeah...'' Luffy uttered. ''...but we might not have to.''
Vivi could only watch as the Merry sailed away, hoping for an answer. She knew, she had troubled them so much. Tears fell down her face at the thought of them leaving like this...but...but...if they would just give her this...
Her eyes widened as she saw that the whole crew was holding their left arms up. It didn't take her long to remember that this was the arm which held the x-mark, the one intended to expose anyone if Bon Clay chose to sneak into their ranks.
It had another purpose though. She could still remember Luffy's words.
''These will be the marks of our friendship!''
Vivi smiled widely at this, realizing what they were trying to tell her. She raised her own left arm high, like wise, Carue raised his left wing. The crew couldn't use words in this situation, but there was no need. The message reached them loud and clear, leaving her grateful all over again to know this amazing crew.
Even if they may not see each other again soon, they will always be friends.
Well, let's stop here.
I hope this was all right. I've been hesitant to write for a while because I've been so busy and then it seems like I was burned out so I'm not sure...
I did promise to explain what happened in the tower. As mentioned above, Cenas Arrow has a special meaning to Miguel. It was Sarah's spell originally but since she was used earth magic for it, Miguel adapted it to work with Heavenly Body magic. He's coping with her death and he's better off now than before. But I'm going to get to dealing with eventually.
I was thinking maybe since they stayed for more days in Alabasta, maybe if they start off a little earlier here, things could be different. Remember that Miguel helped heal Luffy and the others so they needed less time here.
Well, I'm not a big fan of fillers in general so I try to avoid. But I'm not going into the Jaya arc right away. There's this idea I really want to try out first, right after they find out about Robin.
Anywho, thanks for reading and I hope you enjoy it, till next time!
