Chapter 3: Setting Sail

Wobbling down the trail, carrying supplies and personally items, Hikaru glared at her sister who hadn't offered to help carrying anything at all. But who was preoccupied talking to Usopp about how things were for them when they were little.

" I didn't know my mom but Hikaru told me that she was forced to leave Natsu because of some sort of big commotion. So I think she's still alive somewhere, it'd be nice to meet her for the first time."

Usopp, overcome by the story, fought the tears that came to his eyes," I'm sure you'll find her someday! This world works in mysterious ways!"

" Hikari..." Growled Hikaru in hopes that she'd get some help but, alas her sister was in the mood not to hear her." Why you..." Suddenly the load lightened as Zoro took most of it." T-thank you..."

" It's nothing."

Not wanting anyone to see her blush Hikaru hid behind the supplies she was carrying, which only made her look ridiculous. Never in her entire life had she been around so many men, especially those around her age.

" Hikaru! Hikari!"

The girls looked up the trail only to see the Mayor running as fast as possible to get to them. Hikari, quite irritated, grabbed her sisters hand and dashed towards the ship. Even though it caused some of supplies to fall. Determination shown bright in the younger girl expression, she wasn't about to lose her one chance to make her dreams come true.

Once onboard Hikari turned with a smug grin," Bug off gramps!"

In her sisters attempt to flip the man off it only took a moment of thought for Hikaru to tackle her to the ground." We maybe leaving but don't be rude!"

The sails up, anchor as well, the ship began to drift away from the beach. To see Natsu Village getting a little further away each moments was sentimental but it had to be done. Yet the Mayor wasn't about to give up.

" Get back here! You can't leave without my permission!"

Grinning at eachother, Hikaru and Hikari waved," Pirates don't need permission! We sail with the tide!"

Laughing at their remark the swordsman takes a seat," You guys are going to fit right in."

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Later at night, after all the activity settled down, the sisters slept peacefully...well Hikari was anyways. Hikaru's mind was still troubled by the Mayor's sudden change of character. That and how he desperately wanted them to remain in Natsu.

None of it made sense...unless it had something to do with what happened all those many years ago. Being as young as she was the details were blotted out...and the memory was fuzzy in some areas. Just not when it came to her mother—questions remained unanswered ever since that day.

Yet her moment of thought was interrupted by the sound of foot steps outside on deck. Making sure not to wake her sister Hikaru slid off the bed with ease, quietly tip-toeing to the door. Once the door was open she immediately wants to head back inside after seeing Zoro silently practicing his swordmenship.

The sight of the blades in the moonlight was something to behold. What surprised her even more was that she had a sudden craving to learn to fight. After all...one must be prepared to face any hardship.

" What are you doing out here so late?"

Momentarily stunned Hikaru started for the door, thinking twice on that she stops only to hear Zoro laughing. " What a fine predicament", thought the girl, nervously walking over to him." He would see me gawking at him like some idiot...how embarrassing!"

Through a small crack in the door Hikari stifled a giggle as her sister began to talk to the swordsman, all the while thinking how ditzy her sister was. The guys were handsome though...and knew how to have a good time.

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This doesn't mean Hikaru will fall for Zoro, please bare that in mind. There are other options since she hasn't had her heart stopping moments with the others yet. Yep so look forward to them!

Although it would be cute if she did fall for Zoro...it's just...such a hard decision to make! If I even make one! Okay...so you know I will have to eventually.

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