This is the 26th chapter. Before we could get to Ventus' dark part, this is where we focus on Nami's past which it's about her foster family living in the Tangerine Grove and where it took place that Arlong invaded the Coconomi Island. I don't own the series of One Piece.
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Nami's Past: Female Warrior Bell-mere
Somewhere at sea
Few hours earlier, Zoro, Johnny, and Usopp were heading towards Coconmoi Island which that's where Nami is heading along with Ventus, knowing that if she knew that the young Dragoon is in the Going Merry or not. It's pretty obvious that Zoro is worried about Ventus because he's starting to take a liking to that teen. Sure, they've been sparring each other to get stronger whenever they have to face against Marines or enemy pirates. He's able to see the young Dragoon in action last time in Usopp's home which he is rather impressed of his skills. However, Zoro is worried Ventus might be in for a real trouble if he ever face against Arlong when Johnny explain to them in full details on the way.
'If anything happens to that kid, Luffy won't hear the end of it and I won't forgive myself if he gets killed.' Zoro thought with a scowl.
Usopp had also starting to get to know Ventus a little better which he got off to a bad start because the young Dragoon had gotten angry when Zoro would try and threaten him which he was only playing with, but thing about him is that, Ventus gets angry really easy because of his bad temper. Of course, he tried to get him to play with him and Luffy which it didn't go well since Ventus is mature than them. He also tried to get to laugh when he was telling stories, well lies, but Ventus was able to see right through him. He look at Zoro, seeing him that he's scowled and worried about Ventus.
'I don't blame Zoro for worrying about Ventus, but I'm worried about him too. I hope Ventus haven't done anything stupid.' Usopp thought seriously.
When they saw an island that is Coconomi island, they heard a roar that was coming from here. Usopp and Johnny then yelped with their scared expression, but Zoro then widened his eyes, realize of where that roar was coming from.
'Ventus...Don't tell me that you...'
"What was that!?" Usopp shouts with fright. "It sounded like it came from that island!?"
"Yeah...And it sounded like someone got Arlong mad." Johnny agrees with his face pale as a white sheet of paper.
"No...That was Ventus roaring." Zoro shook his head seriously, leaving them confused. "If I have to take a guess, I'd say the kid is fighting Arlong."
"Wait hold on a second, what do you mean?" Usopp questions. "And why is he fighting against Arlong?"
"Yeah Big Bro, why?" Johnny demands. "Is he trying to get himself killed!?"
Zoro then sighed, knowing that those two wanted answers as to why would Ventus fight against Arlong, even though, the fishman captain is stronger than any human.
"That's because Ventus knew something was off about Nami. I doubt that she told him, but I think it's enough to get the kid pissed off." Zoro explains. "He's right now entering a Dragon Rage."
"Dragon Rage?" Johnny repeats with confusion, earned a nod from him.
"Dragons are well-known to get angry real quick, if you pissed them off too much and they'll snap right off. They'll be entering a Dragon Rage which Ventus has it within him." Zoro told them. "When he's enter in that state, he'll fully transform into a dragon. That and his strength increase tenfold which he's a lot stronger than Arlong."
"Which we've learn that Ventus was pretty mad as us when I tried to tell him a story and you threaten him." Usopp stated, earned a tick mark from Zoro.
"Hey! Don't Put It Like That!?" Zoro yelled, showing his white eyes and shark-like teeth.
Johnny was starting to get the picture why Ventus fight against Arlong in the first place, but still don't know why would Nami steal the Going Merry. Whatever the reason, it's enough to get Ventus enraged while fighting against Arlong and his crew.
"But what happens after that?" Johnny asks.
"Then, he'll lose control of himself while killing anyone on sight and wreck havoc, doesn't matter if any one of us is an ally or the enemy." Zoro told him. "At any rate if that happens, we need to get him to calm down."
"How are we going to that?" Usopp questions.
"We need to get him to remember of who he is and who we are." Zoro clarifies. "If that happens, he'll be able to get into his senses."
Before they could ask anymore questions, they heard a loud roar that was coming from Ventus which both Usopp and Johnny are starting to have some second thoughts.
"That roar...it's even more scary..." Usopp muttered with fright, shedding in tears.
"He's starting to get even more enraged. We need to get him to calm down." Zoro told them with his serious tone.
With that, they won't time to waste when they got close to Arlong Park.
Coconomi Island, Arlong Park
When Zoro, Johnny, and Usopp have sailed their way towards Arlong Park, they were completely stunned of what they just saw. The Arlong pirates were massacred, even Arlong is killed, it's almost like they're in a slaughterhouse. It was bloody and gruesome when they see the remains of fishmen were torn into pieces while blood and guts were splattered all over. Johnny is trying to hold his lunch while trying not to throw up. However, the entire structure of Arlong Park is completely destroyed.
When the dust clears, Ventus came out of the structure while in a full-dragon form.
'Crap! We're too late! Ventus is really angry!?' Zoro mentally shouts seriously.
The ship was then parked at the ruins of Arlong Park when Ventus was on dead set on looking at the three with rage. The young Dragoon was about to attack them as Nami ran right in front of him, raise her arms in defends.
"Ventus! It's over!" Nami shouts when Ventus stops in his track. "This isn't you, please come back to us!"
"She's right, kid! We know you're in there, snap out of it!" Zoro shouts. "You don't have to continue this fight, you've won! It's over!"
Ventus then starts to calm down as he then transform back into a human form, his claws and teeth begin to retract back, the horns, wings, and tail were gone, the scales were turning back into a skin, and his eyes were in a human form. He then falls unconscious as Zoro then rush towards him as he grab hold of him.
"I got you, kid." Zoro assures him with a smile.
"Is he alright?" Usopp asks, rush towards the two.
"Yeah, he's back to normal." Zoro nods, placing him down to the ground. "He's just unconscious, but he's alright."
"Hey, what just happened?" Johnny questions, looking at the horrific scene.
"I'll explain later, but right now, we need to get Ventus inside." Nami told them seriously. "I know where we can get him inside."
But before they were about to take refuge, Nami is looking at Ventus' naked body with embarrassment. She saw his lean body that is well-toned and developed, but she saw is his 8.5 inch manhood which caused her to blush.
"I don't think we can get him going around, looking like that." Usopp told her. "It's just that well, he's all butt-naked."
"What happen to his clothes?" Zoro questions.
"HIS CLOTHES WERE COMPLETELY RIPPED DURING HIS TRANSFORMATION!?" Nami yelled with her white eyes and shark-like teeth, earned a tick mark on her head. "His clothes are probably still in the Going Merry. I docked it at the Cocoyashi village."
With that, Johnny and Usopp head towards the ship as they then sail towards the Cocoyashi village, leaving Zoro and Nami alone with Ventus. Nami then turned away with her red face.
'How is it possible that he was able to hide his thing that big!?' Nami mentally shouts. 'I get that he's half-dragon, but this is ridiculous!?'
"Hey." Zoro called her, making her snapped out her thoughts. "Care to explain why'd you steal the ship?"
Nami knew that she won't win this situation as she then begin explain to him. She told him that in order for her to get to that island, she needs a ship to head towards her home and try to sell the island for one hundred million berries so they can be free from Arlong's tyranny which she only done this for 8 years by stealing treasures from pirates. Zoro then begin to understand why she stole the ship and treasure, but still holds a grudge for that stunt she just pulled.
"But thanks to Ventus, I won't be able to sell off those berries I've been working so hard to steal." Nami finished her explanation, still upset that Ventus have done something reckless, but smiled for what he had done. "With Arlong and his crew dead, the Cocoyashi village is finally free."
Zoro then look at Ventus, impressed that the young Dragoon was able to fight against Arlong and his entire crew on his own and destroyed the Arlong Park. However, what got him worried was his enraged state.
"How is he able to get really angry? It got me curious." Zoro inquired. "Look don't get me wrong, I'm impressed that he's able to fight against Arlong and his crew on his own. What I want to know is, how did this happen?"
"Ventus was able to figure it out on his own." Nami told him. "I don't know how, but for some reason, it was enough to get him snapped."
"I see." Zoro nods with an understanding.
"Bis Sis Nami!?" The voice of Johnny yelled when he and Usopp rush towards the ruins of Arlong Park, holding some clothes. "We found those clothes for him."
"Alright, help him get his clothes on while he's still unconscious." Nami ordered as Johnny and Usopp then work together as they put some clothes for Ventus.
Nami then grab hold of his lance, but saw a weapon that's right next to the dead carcass. She then grab it, widen her eyes.
'Is that...' Nami thought as she grabs a two-pronged spear. 'If I remember correctly, Dragoons wields a two-handed weapons. I think Ventus would be able to use it incase his other lance got broke.'
She then grab hold of the two-pronged spear, but Zoro caught her grabbing that spear, realize why she did that.
"All done, Big Sis Nami." Johnny told her, earned her attention.
"Right, let's head towards the Cocoyashi village so Ventus rest up." Nami ordered.
With that, Zoro then grab hold of Ventus, holding his legs to prevent him from falling while his arms were around the swordsman's shoulders. Usopp then grab hold of his lance as they left the ruins of Arlong Park and head towards the Cocoyashi village.
Coconomi Island, Cocoyashi Village
When they were on their way towards the village, Ventus then grunts as he slowly opened his eyes, seeing Zoro is carrying him on his back.
"Zoro." Ventus grunts, earned his attention.
"Hey kid, you okay?" Zoro asks with a small smile.
"Just tired, to be honest." Ventus replied weakly.
"Well, we'll be heading to the Cocoyashi Village soon, Little Bro Ventus." Johnny assured him. "Big Bro Zoro filled us in about that rage of yours."
Ventus was then surprised about what he heard, but he doesn't blame him or Usopp that they didn't know about the Dragon Rage.
"Yeah, what you did was really scary." Usopp added. "For a minute there, you're about to kill us when you were in the dragon form."
"Sorry about that, didn't mean to scare you guys." Ventus apologizes.
"Don't worry about it." Zoro assures him. "I don't blame you that you're angry about what Arlong did to that island."
"You mean the one that Nami have worked on gathering money for selling the village?" Ventus inquired.
"That's right." Nami nods, earned his attention. "I figured you've overheard my explanation."
Ventus couldn't help but chuckle a bit as Zoro then lowers down to the ground while the young Dragoon tried to stand, but he was little wobblily. He then walk towards her. Nami then turned her head when as his hand then came down and chop her in the head, causing down to cry out as she crouched down holding her head. Both Johnny and Usopp drop their jaws with shock, but Zoro knew what he's doing, leaving him smirked.
"Don't ever steal our ship again!?" Ventus growled as her with a glare. "Do you even know how much of a pain in the ass you've been today!? Huh!?"
That yell of his made Nami scared.
"Gah! I am so gonna tell Luffy you stole that ship when gets here on this island!" Ventus finished his sentence with a huff, causing Nami and Zoro burst with laughter.
She laughed like she was back at the Going Merry with everyone, it's just ridiculous. Here he was, berating her for having the ship stolen when he just took down Arlong pirates. Ventus then hid a smile as he watched her laugh. Usopp and Johnny were confused, but seeing that Nami laugh when she got scolded by the young Dragoon, they then join them with a laugh. She then smiled at him as she then hugged the young Dragoon.
"Thank you Ventus, you have no idea what this means to me and this village." Nami thanked him.
Ventus then hugged Nami with a smile on his face, glad that the Cocoyasi Village is finally free from Arlong. They then release their hug as they head to where Nami lives.
When they made it towards Cocoyashi village, the villagers turned away with a glare when they saw Nami which she's use to it. However, what got the young Dragoons attention is that the bandages that's wrapped around Zoro as he spoke.
"That's a lot of bandages." Ventus said, earned his attention. "What happened to you?"
"I got into a sword fight with 'Hawkeye' Mihawk." Zoro answered simply, leaving him shocked. "I lost that fight."
"But why?" Ventus asks.
"Look, I'd rather die than run away. If I run, then promises I kept will be broken and there would be nothing left for me." Zoro told him. "I just won't accept defeat."
Ventus knew that Zoro had ambitions and resolve, but he's a bit reckless ever since he fought against 'Hawkeye' Mihawk.
"In other words, you'd rather die than lose." Nami stated.
"That's right." Zoro nods. "After that, he sliced me in the front of my chest. He let me live and I made a vow...A vow to never lose again."
"You should've seen him fight, Ventus." Usopp said, earned his attention. "'Hawkeye' Mihawk was able to split Don Krieg's ship right down to the middle with only one slice."
"Yeah, he's able to block every attacks with that knife he used against Big Bro Zoro." Johnny added.
Ventus then sighed, figured that Zoro was able to do something foolish.
"I don't know if you're aware, but 'Hawkeye' Mihawk is one of the Seven Pirate Warlords." Ventus told them, leaving them widened their eyes with shock.
Before he could explain about it, one of the villagers medical doctor have taking Zoro to the infirmary for treating his wound. They can hear him scream with pain, cursing the doctor while Nami then explain to a man named Genzo and a young woman named Nojiko about Arlong's death, but she left the gruesome details out. He and the people from the Cocoyashi village head towards Arlong Park so they can see proof that if he's dead or not.
Nami, Usopp, Johnny, and Ventus were now alone while the doctor named Nako was working on Zoro, though they can still hear him screaming. She then turn to the young Dragoon as she spoke.
"While we're here waiting for Luffy get here, what can you tell us about the Seven Pirate Warlords." Nami suggest.
"Yeah, though I'm curious about them too. It would make more sense if we're planning to head towards the Grand Line." Usopp added, leaving Ventus sighed as he then spoke.
"Alright, but before I do that, I'm gonna give you guys a bit of a heads-up. The reason why the Grand Line is also known as the Pirate Graveyard in the first place is because of Arlong and those other two powers like him who'll rule over it." Ventus explains, causing him to cringe when he heard of Zoro screaming in pain. "Zoro, if you're hearing this, maybe you'll learn more about the Grand Line!?"
"Forget it Ventus, he'll be at it for a while." Nami sighed, rubbing her head to prevent a headache. "Anyway, is there a reason why?"
"There is." Ventus nods. "And one of the reasons are the Seven Warlords."
"Seven Warlords?" Usopp repeats with scared expression.
"They're the most powerful individuals authorized by the Government." Ventus told him.
"Seriously? Why would any pirate would do that?" Nami asks with a scowl.
"For protection. You see, the Government looks the other way in exchange for the cut of their treasure and there allowed to exist." Ventus explains. "Of course the other pirates, they're Government dogs. But they don't get to where they are by being weak, they're the force to be reckon with. One of the Pirate Warlord who defeat Zoro is 'Hawkeye' Mihawk, he's one of those Seven Warlords."
That got Usopp and Nami shocked when they listened to Ventus' explanation.
"These guys are really terrifying." Usopp stated with fright. "I hope we don't get to cross one of them."
"You should've had some second thoughts about journeying with us, Usopp." Ventus told him with deadpan expression, causing Usopp to face fault down to the ground. "Anyway, there's also another Warlord you guys should be aware. The one who goes by the name of Jinbe, he's the Captain of the Sun Pirates. His physical prowess lives up to his reputation, but unlike Arlong, he holds great pride and honor. He never holds hatred towards any humans."
"But, how you be so sure?" Johnny questions. "He even cause havoc and destruction around the Grand Line."
"You're Wrong!? You Don't Know Him!?' Ventus yelled with anger. "Jinbe he's...he...he took me in..."
That got Nami, Johnny, and Usopp completely stunned, never in their lives that Jinbe would save Ventus."
"Wait, what do you mean?" Nami asks. "Why would-"
"HEY!?" The voice of Luffy yelled, earned their attention when they saw Luffy walking to their direction. Of course, he also brought Sanji and Yosaku along with him.
"Luffy." Nami said.
"What kept you?" Ventus asks.
"What do you mean? I beat Don Krieg while trying to find you guys, duh." Luffy shrugs. "Also, we got ourselves a cook. Isn't it awesome?"
Ventus then twitch his eyebrow, wondering how they were able to get here on Coconomi Island so quick. Of course, Sanji is happy to see Nami again while Zoro finally got out of the infirmary when his chest was stitched up. They then head towards to Nami's home so she explain herself about the reason why she stole the ship. She told them that she needed the money to buy off the village from Arlong's reign, but it won't happen because of Ventus.
"So lets see if I get it straight, you went your way for stolen the ship just to head towards this island while trying to come up with 100 million berries so you can buy the village from Arlong?" Sanji asks.
"Yeah, I've been stealing treasures from pirates for the past 8 years." Nami explains. "If I was able to get enough money, I'll buy the village and we can finally be free."
"Nami! You're so pretty when you try to save the village like that~" Sanji compliments with his goo-goo eyes.
'Oh brother.' Ventus thought with annoyance, shook his head.
"Anyway, the rest is history." Nami said, ignoring the lover chef. "But thanks to Ventus, Arlong and his entire crew is killed along with that building."
"Wait, you said Ventus killed Arlong?" Luffy questions.
"Yeah, Ventus was the one who took down Arlong and his crew all on his own." Usopp nods seriously. "That battle was pretty terrifying. Surely, you guys saw that Arlong Park was now all in ruin and bloody."
"Yeah, we saw that earlier." Sanji nodded. "The villagers were pretty horrified that the fishmen pirates were massacred, it's almost like a slaughterhouse when they were about to lose their lunch since they saw something gruesome. And the building is destroyed."
"That's because I destroyed it and kill the entire Arlong pirates." Ventus confess, earned their attention. "Sanji, you may not be aware, but I've entered the Dragon Rage."
Sanji, Luffy, and Yosaku widened their eyes with shock, hearing that the young Dragoon entered a Dragon Rage and use it against Arlong and his crew on his own. Luffy now understands why Ventus have killed Arlong, the crew, and the building on his own.
"When I get really angry, not only my strength has increase and become stronger than any fishman, but I fully transform into a dragon." Ventus explains. "However, I lose sight of everything while killing anyone on sight, it won't matter if either of them or you were an ally or an enemy."
"No way...So that's why Arlong Park is a big mess." Sanji realized with stunned expression.
"Yes, and I was about to kill my friends if it wasn't for Nami and Zoro." Ventus said, turned his head to her. "They're the ones who come to my senses and try to get me to calm down."
"Yeah, Little Bro Ventus is like really mad." Johnny added. "It's almost you're entering a Lion's Den, only one enraged dragon."
Sanji then begin to understand, but Luffy then walk towards Ventus with his eyes covered from his straw hat as spoke.
"Ventus Starwind." Luffy said with his serious expression. "Listen, I'm the Captain so I get to beat up the strongest guys! That's how it-"
"I Don't Care If You're Our Grandmother!?" Ventus retorts with interruption. "And you're in no position to tell me what to do and what not to do! Also, you've already fought against Don Krieg!"
"That's right, I did!" Luffy nodded, folding his arms.
"But, you need realize that as captain, you would know that if any of the crew would disobey the order will be either killed or kicked out. Even if it means they've done the right thing." Ventus told him with a scowl. "And yet, you have to gall to tell me that you should fight against Arlong instead of me!?"
"Damn right, I was on my way to get you guys and the ship. It wouldn't be that long." Luffy stated.
Ventus was about to get angry when his eyes were dilated into a dragon eyes, leaving Zoro and Nami were ready to stop this fight since the young Dragoon is about to enter the Dragon Rage again. However, Ventus then sighed, tried to calm himself down as he then spoke.
"You're a fool." Ventus told him, causing Luffy to flinch. "You don't have the qualifications to be a Captain if you continue to be childish, greedy, and selfish. Even if you're going to continue on your foolish quest while getting yourself killed to anyone who's stronger, then you don't have the right to call yourself the King of the Pirates."
That got Luffy really angry, clenching his fist with anger as he then continues.
"If I wasn't on the Going Merry with Nami and kill the Arlong pirates, who knows how many people would get killed from the hands of the fishmen." Ventus stated with his cold tone. "You should know that by now. And yet, all you care about is food, Grand Line, and your goal. You don't care about anyone else, all you care about is your selfish gains."
"That's Not True!?" Luffy shouts with anger, grabbing his collar. "If You Bad Mouth At Me One More Time, I Will Kick Your Ass!"
"Stubborn lout!" Ventus retorts, grabbing him as he then tossed him out of the house while approaching him with anger and readied his lance. "If you think I would sit by and wait for you while letting the people from this village die, you've got another thing coming!?"
And that was the last straw as Luffy and Ventus were about to clash against each other, but they're restrained and holding back when Zoro and Sanji restrain the young Dragoon while Usopp, Johnny, and Yosaku restrains the rubber captain. The two were trying to pry themselves out, but Nami have had enough as she then use her bo staff to smack the two of them.
"THAT'S ENOUGH! BOTH OF YOU!" Nami yelled, earned their attention as she panted heavily since this is getting out of control. "This Is Going Way Too Far! If You Don't Watch It, Then You're Going to Regret It Later!"
She then turned to Ventus as she spoke.
"Ventus, I understand that you're angry and neither of us blame you for it. While I'm grateful for what you did, you need to watch what you're saying, especially when you talk to your captain." Nami scolds, then turned to Luffy. "And you Luffy, as Captain, you need to realize that Ventus have done the right thing. And what did you do? You go up their and tell him you're the Captain and tell him you should fight some strongest guys!? Well let me tell you this, not everything is about you! And you need to realize that Ventus have made some valid points about you!?"
Both Ventus and Luffy were stunned, knew that she's right. Once everyone has calm down, they then lets go of the two while stood silent, not saying anything since the atmosphere has grown intense.
"You're right, guess I am a bit selfish." Luffy agrees with a serious expression as he then look at the young Dragoon. "Ventus, I'm still upset for what you did, but after what Nami told me about the position as Captain. And you're right, I am selfish for focusing dead set for becoming the King of the Pirates."
Ventus was then taking aback of Luffy, surprised to see that the rubber captain have made a mistake. Even though, Luffy have been a bit childish which it's annoying, but he can be serious whenever he fights.
"What I'm trying to say is, I'm sorry." Luffy apologize with sincere. "I was just angry that you fought Arlong instead of me, but I wasn't able to realize that you were doing this for saving the village and Nami. So for that, I'm sorry."
Ventus give a nod, accepting his apology as he then turn to Nami.
"Sorry that I lash out." Ventus apologize.
"It's alright, you were still a bit on edge." Nami accept. "But next time, watch what you're saying and you also need to watch your temper."
Ventus then give her a nod, know that she gave him a good scold.
"If you guys want to know about me, I'll explain this situation once we get back inside." Nami told them.
With that, the Straw Hat crew then went inside of her house as she explains her situation that happened 8 years ago.
Cocoyashi Village, 8 years ago
8 years ago in the Cocoyashi village, a young girl Nami, skillfully drew a map that resembles her home island, Coconomi Island. She then write a name in the middle section of the island 'Cocoyashi'. She wore a light green dress with a dark green accent and sandals.
"It's done." Nami said with a smile. "It's done!"
She cheered for a second as she then rush towards the bookstore. Nami found a book she's been looking for, but it's too high.
"Now if I can just get that book." Nami muttered as she then scan the area to see if anyone's here, then climb up the ladder to get the book of Navigation. She climb back down when she was about to leave.
"Hey was that you, Nami?" The owner asks, leaving her stop in her tracks. "Do you need any help there?"
Nami then hides the book behind her with a nervous chuckle as she then spoke while taking a few steps back.
"No, I'm just looking." Nami lied whole hold the book. "I'll be going now."
Nami was about to leave the bookstore, but someone stopped her from behind which caused her to drop the book as she then look slightly. Genzo then growled at her with a scowl on his face.
Genzo has black short black hair and a well-trimmed mustache. He wore a brown short-sleeved police uniform, brown pants, and sandals. He also has a pinwheel on his hat.
"That's too bad." The owner said with a smile as Genzo then slam his hand and chop down to her head.
"DAMN IT NAMI NOT AGAIN!" Genzo yelled as he then grabbed her, walking towards the house. The villagers laugh, seeing Nami got caught again.
"Let me go! I'm not a cat!" Nami shouts.
"You little urchin! How many times do I have to tell you that stealing is wrong!?" Genzo scolds, causing Nami to stick her tongue at him.
"How else am I gonna get what I need? I don't have any money!?" Nami retorts, leaving Genzo ignoring her while heading towards the house. "Cheapskate!"
Genzo have finally made his way towards the house which happens to be a Tangerine farm as he then knock the door.
"Bell-mere! Bell-mere! I caught her stealing again! Now open up this door!" Genzo shouts with a demand.
The door then opens which it happens to be Bell-mere. She's a relatively slim woman with long fuchsia hair tied in a ponytail, grey eyes, and a unique hairstyle similar to a mohawk as a chelsea hawk. She wore a green checkered shirt with the word 'MACE' on it, indigo trousers and brown sandals. She also holds a cigarette on her mouth.
"What do you want now?" Bell-mere asks with annoyance, not in a mood for this but saw Nami. "You're back. That was a quick trip."
"I've got a ride." Nami told her with a smile.
"Listen, you better get control of her before she winds up in a jail cell." Genzo told her seriously as Bell-mere then approaches him.
"Thanks for the advice." Bell-mere thanked him with a smirk, patting his face. "Haven't you ever seen something you've want than just taking it?"
"You're The Reason She Acts This Way!?" Genzo retorts with a tick mark on his head.
"Relax, I'm just kidding. I hope your kind enough to pay for her." Bell-mere said with her seductive tone, placed her hand under his chin.
"Uh, Bell-mere." Genzo said.
"Thanks so much, I don't have the money right now. I pay it somehow." Bell-mere thanked him with a smile while being close to him, causing Genzo to blush as she then whisper to his ear. "Does that sound good?"
Then steam came out of his ears as he then take a several steps back frantically.
"You can't say thing like that!?" Genzo shouts as he then quickly left the house, causing Nami burst with laughter.
"Look, he's as red as a beet." Bell-mere said, laughing but stopped as she look at Nami. She then cleared her throat to get her attention. "Now then, laugh it up while you still can, Nami."
Nami was a little confused as they then walk toward the other side to have a talk which Bell-mere chop her head.
"Do that one more time and you won't be able to sit for a week." Bell-mere scolds her.
"I'm sorry." Nami apologizes while holding her head. "It's just that I really need that book, Bell-mere."
"Then why didn't you ask me if I would buy it for you?" Bell-mere questions with her calm tone.
"Because I know you can't afford it." Nami answered, turned slightly.
"Of course I can, there's money leftover from the last harvest." Bell-mere assures her foster daughter.
"But I heard them in the village." Nami told her foster mother. "They said the weather has been so good lately, that everyone's tangerines will sell. Which means we can't raise our price or we may not be able to sell at all."
"They don't know what they're talk about." Bell-mere scoffed.
Until, Nojiko showed up outside with a smile on her face. She has a light-blue hair, blue eyes, and tanned skin. She wore a light blue skirt, a navy shirt underneath, red headband, and sandals.
"Way to go, Nami." Nojiko said with a smile, approaches her foster sister. "If I had stolen it, there's no way I would've been caught."
Bell-mere then chop both of their heads, caught the two girls to cry out with pain.
"No more stealing, right?" Bell-mere scolds the two girls.
"I was just joking, that's all." Nojiko cried, holding her head.
"That really hurt." Nami added, also holding her head.
With that, Bell-mere begin to burst with laughter, leaving the two girls confused as she spoke.
"I'm sorry but one things for sure, the maps you draw are so amazing Nami." Bell-mere said with a smile, looking at the map that Nami just made. "I see you can draw land-maps now as well as sea charts."
"That's the map of our island, isn't it?" Nojiko asks with a smile.
"Nobody will believe you that such a little girl drew this all be herself." Bell-mere said proudly, patting her head.
"I wanted the books so I'd be able to start studying navigation." Nami told her.
"Navigation as well?" Bell-mere asks.
"You're going to be navigator?" Nojiko added with a question.
"That's right. I'm gonna guide ships around all the oceans of the world, it'll be great." Nami declared with a smile. "And I'll be able to make maps of all the far off places as I'll go."
"So, this island map is the first step toward realizing your dream, is that it?" Bell-mere asks with a smile, winking at her foster daughter while showing the map. Nami then gave her a nod with a grin on her face. "A world map huh? Nami, your dream is going to come true. I have no doubt."
But for sometime later as it's raining, the three are sitting down eating their supper but Bell-mere is sewing a sunflower on a pink dress.
"Hey uh, Bell-mere." Nami called her, earned her attention. "Why haven't you been eating dinner with us lately?"
"I've been eating tangerines. I've just been on a diet, that's all." Bell-mere told her while sewing.
"Then I don't want to eat, either." Nojiko said.
"What's with all of the drama? You need to eat because you are a growing girl." Bell-mere told her.
"Why do you keeping lying to us? You're not eating because we don't have enough money to buy food, that's why." Nojiko stated with an upset expression, leaving Nami surprised. "You're starving yourself so that we won't go hungry."
"Tangerines replenished my skin with the power of liquid sunlight." Bell-mere stated, rubbing her face. "And they are the only reason I am still such a ravishing beauty. Even though, I am in my extreme late 20s."
"Your hands are all yellow." Nami points out.
"WOULD YOU JUST SHUT UP AND EAT YOUR FOOD ALREADY!?" Bell-mere yelled with a tick mark on her neck, showing her white eyes, and shark-like teeth.
Bell-mere then cut the thread, finished sewing the dress.
"And here you go Nami." Bell-mere said with a smile, showing a sunflower pattern with a 'I Am Lion' on a pink skirt. "All done, a Bell-mere one of a kind original."
"Oh great, a hand me down." Nami groans.
"Yeah that's true, but it suits you. See look." Bell-mere said, given the dress to Nami.
"But the lion use to be a sunflower." Nami complains.
"Quit complaining. You have to take my hand me downs or you won't get any new clothes." Nojiko told her seriously, placing her hands on her hips while looking at Nami.
"But it's not fair, you got new clothes all the time and mine are all used!?" Nami argued.
"I get all old clothes too, you know? So just suck it up Nami and take what you get, understand!?" Nojiko retorts.
"We didn't come from the same parents anyway. We're not real sisters, so who cares!?" Nami yells back at her, causing Bell-mere to get very upset.
"Nami!" Bell-mere shouts furiously, slapping Nami very hard as she was down to the floor. "So what if you don't have the same parents. I don't ever want to hear you say anything like that again!?"
"I don't care." Nami barks back with tears in her eyes. "You're not even out real mother, you're just some lady who's taking care of us!? You wished we'd never come here so you can buy clothes and food for yourself!"
Bell-mere then widen her eyes, stunned after what Nami just said to her foster mother.
"You'd been better off without us, would you? That way you can be so selfish and do whatever you want!?" Nami shouts, begin to shed tears in her eyes. "I wish...I wish someone rich would've adopted me instead of a stinky loser like you!?"
And that was the last straw since Nami have gone way too far, making Bell-mere angry and hurt as she then spoke.
"Well fine." Bell-mere said with her cold tone, turned away. "If you hated here so much, you can go find someplace else to live if you want. I didn't sign up for this."
"Stop fighting! Please just stop!" Nojiko pleads.
"I'm never coming back!?" Nami yelled as she then ran away outside in the middle of the rain since she takes up her offer. Nojiko tried to plea her to come back, but Nami ignore her while kept running.
After the brief silence in the house due to the heated argument, Nojiko then breaks up the silence as she spoke.
"Bell-mere um, the three of us are a family, that's the truth. And you know Nami feels the same no matter what she saids." Nojiko told her seriously, earned her attention.
Bell-mere knew that Nojiko is right about family, even though they're not blood-related, but they still have each other, she then smiled as she spoke.
"Look who's being the adult here. I blew up and you're level-headed one." Bell-mere said, patting her head. "Why don't you go and find Nami? I'll make something special for dinner and we can make up, okay?"
Nojiko then give her a nod with a smile as she then left the house to find her foster sister.
Few minutes later, the rain has stopped and people from the village then head towards the marketplace where they get to buy meat, fruits, vegetables, and any other produce. Genzo was able to find Nami completely soaking wet as he then begin to dry her up with a towel. She explain what happen between her and Bell-mere, causing him to burst with laughter.
"So you've runaway from home and come to the village? Now what's the plan?" Genzo asks with a chuckle, offering her a mug of warm milk. "Drink before it gets cold."
Nami accepts his offer as he then stood up, taking his mug while leaning against the wall.
"Bell-mere would be so much happier is she didn't have to take care of us." Nami said sadly.
"And why would you say that?" Genzo asks curiously.
"Well, you need a lot of money to take care of two kids. And because of me, the whole village hates her right now." Nami told him, causing him to chuckle a bit.
"That's progress. At least you're considering others." Genzo said with a smile, chuckle. "But don't worry, when Bell-mere was your age, she was a complete nightmare terrorizing the entire village."
"Is that the truth?" Nami asks curiously.
"Sure, even now the village is looking her as some kind of a screw-up." Genzo explains, leaving her surprised. "So you can imagine how surprised everyone in the village was when she joined up with the Marines, huh?"
"Marines? You mean Bell-mere was in the Marines?" Nami asks.
"That's right." Genzo nods, remembered about Bell-mere joined. "She said she couldn't stand by and do nothing while pirates killed innocent people. then she left the village."
He then also remember the time after the battlefield is over, Bell-mere was on the brink of death. Until, she heard a baby cry when she saw a little girl carrying a baby as she stood up, approaches her. She asked her that is this baby hers, told her that she found the baby. Bell-mere then decided to take those two back to the Coconomi Island.
"That innocent child is you, Nami." Genzo told her, leaving her surprised. "And seen how precious you were, you gave Bell-mere the right reasons to live again."
He remembered that Bell-mere manage to sail back in the Coconomi island with two children in the middle of the stormy weather. The villagers were relieved to see that Bell-mere made it back, but wondering who those children belong to. She then pleads them to help those two, told them that they have a fever. Nako then rush towards them as she give those kids to him. He told her that she needs medical treatment, but she refuse while telling him that they need it more than she does. After she got patched up, she told them that she'll take care of those two, much to their dismay. Genzo tried to reason with her, but she won't listen since she decided to take care of those two children.
When he finished telling her about Bell-mere, Nami is completely stunned after what he told her.
"The bond between the three of you girls goes far deeper than any normal family." Genzo told her with a smile.
Until, Nojiko was able to find her in the sheriff's department as she spoke.
"Nami." Nojiko said, earned their attention. "I thought I find you here. Come on, Bell-mere is waiting for us. She's making us a special supper."
Nami then smiled as she nodded her foster sister and the two girls then rush towards their home. The villagers smiled, seeing those two girls come a long way fighting for their very lives and seeing them overcome with happiness and love. However, it falls short when the Arlong pirates have invaded the Cocoyashi village as the villagers were completely terrified and wondered why were they here on this island. Both Nako and Genzo were able to catch up to those two girls.
"Nami! Nojiko!" Genzo called them, earned their attention. "It's too dangerous for you here, go hide in the woods."
"But, what about-"
"You must go, now!" Genzo shouts, points the bushes near the buildings.
With that, both Nami and Nojiko then hide in the bushes.
The Arlong pirates arrived in the island with sinister smirk on their faces, seeing the villagers terrified whenever they saw a fishmen as he then spoke.
"Greetings and salutations, you pathetic little humans. From this moment on, this entire island and its inhabitants are all part of my domain!?" Arlong declared with an evil smirk, causing the Arlong pirates to roar with a cheer. "Listen closely, from now on, on the first day of every month you will buy your lives for me."
Genzo couldn't help but scowl at Arlong, didn't like the idea.
"100,000 berries for adults, 50,000 berries for children. Those who cannot pay will die!?" Arlong declared, clenching his fist and laugh. Nami and Nojiko overheard about Arlong forcing the villagers paying tribute which they're helpless.
"What should we do, Nojiko?" Nami asks with terrified expression. "We don't have that much money."
"Maybe the fishmen won't be able to find our house." Nojiko told her, looking at her foster sister. "You can't see it from here."
All of the villagers have manage to pay the tribute since the marketplace is now ransacked as Kuroonbi then begin to count the amounts of money in the sack.
"Is that it? So what's the haul?" Arlong asks.
"About 25 million, give or take." Kuroobi answered with a smirk.
"You all shall live." Arlong told the villagers, laughing.
The villagers didn't have any options but to pay the tribute for each month so they won't die, but if they don't, Arlong and his crew will kill the ones who won't pay.
"It's time to leave." Arlong told his crew. "Come, brothers!"
When the Arlong pirates were about to leave, one of his crew spoke.
"Arlong, there's smoke coming from outside of the village." One of the Arlong pirates told their captain, leaving the villagers shocked with horror and the Arlong pirates notice the smoke which it was coming from Bell-mere's house. "It looks like chimney smoke from somebodies house."
"Oh? We almost missed that one." Arlong said. "Alright, lets go guys!"
With that, the Arlong pirates then head towards the Tangerine farm while both Nami and Nojiko were heading towards the house to get Bell-mere which they won't be able to make it in time. The villagers knew that the Arlong pirates were heading to Bell-mere's house, leaving horrified with dread. One of the villagers told them that Nami and Nojiko were gone, much to the medical doctors dismay as he pursues after the two.
Meanwhile at the Tangerine Grove, Bell-mere is making supper since the ones she made are almost ready. She then tried the sauce to see if its ready which she took a liking of the flavor as she spoke.
"Perfect, there's nothing as delicious as my sauce." Bell-mere said with a smile. "The duck needs about another ten minutes, but it's close. The stew is almost ready. This is gonna blow my budget, but sometimes you've got to live a little."
When the Arlong pirates have made their way towards the Tangerine Grove, Arlong then clench his fist as he then knocks the door.
"Oh, they're here." Bell-mere said with a smile when she a heard a knock, but looking at the window when she saw a group which she's smart enough to figure out what they are. She then heard a knock on a door as she spoke. "It's open, come in."
"Why thanks." Arlong said with a smirk as he then open the door. He then scan, not seeing anyone but is then ambushed by Bell-mere when she kicked him down outside and holds him down with a gun in his mouth.
"I guess you weren't expecting a former Marine." Bell-mere told him with a smirk. "Now what would a pirate from the Grand Line want with Cocoyashi village?"
Suddenly, the Arlong pirates were starts to laugh which they knew that Bell-mere has no idea what she's dealing with.
"What's So Funny!?" Bell-mere demands with a shout. Until, Arlong starts laughing while effortlessly chomps through her gun, completely destroyed it, much to her horror.
"Useless, foolish, stupid, empty, worthless, all of you humans! You have no strength to speak up!" Arlong mocks with his sinister smile, laughing.
Nami and Nojiko were about to head towards the house so they can get Bell-mere escape which they were too late. Suddenly, Nako have manage to catch up to those two girls when he grab hold of them.
"You can't go back home." Nako told them, much to their dismay. "Nojiko, Nami, quiet and listen to me. There will be times, times and lives like this moment now when you have to learn the truth no matter how hard it is to take."
Until, they heard Bell-mere screaming with pain when Arlong brutally stomp on her arm, crushing her arm without any efforts. Nami tried to get Bell-mere, but Nako stopped her as Arlong then stomp her arm again, causing her to scream with agony. He then continues to stomp her arm.
'It's no use, these guys are real...monsters...and I'm going to die. Nojiko...Nami...'
"Bell-mere! Don't waste your life because you're a stubborn fool!" Genzo shouts seriously, walking towards her. "There's no reason for this fight when it can be resolve with a simple as exchanging money!?"
Bell-mere then look at Genzo, knew he was trying to save her since she's badly wounded.
"Just pay the fee and I'll stop." Arlong told her with an evil smirk. "100,000 for each adult and 50,000 for each kid it any. If you can pay for your whole family, I'll glady spare your lives."
"Family." Bell-mere weakly muttered, glaring at Arlong as Genzo then help her up.
"How much money do have?" Genzo questions. "You need 200,000."
"I don't have it...I'm not even close." Bell-mere told him, leaving Genzo worried.
"Hey, the table is set for three in here." Hachi told him when he inspect the house, leaving Genzo in grimace while Arlong is pleased to hear.
"A family of three." Arlong said with a smirk, laughing.
"It's for me and my friend." Genzo lied, earned his attention. "We were suppose to have a nice dinner tonight, before you came."
He then turned to her as he spoke.
"Come Bell-mere, I know you've made something wonderful. Pay then before our food gets cold." Genzo told her, leaving her surprised. "Just pat the pirates and then they'll leave us alone. Now everyone is saved."
"It's true. The village register shows no record of her marrying or given birth." Kuroobi told him, looking at the registration sheets. "She's always been single."
That got Nami and Nojiko completely stunned when they've overheard what Kuroobi have told him.
"Listen, there's no way that the pirates will ever find out about you, but you have to leave this island immediately and don't ever look back." Nako told the two girls. "It's the only way for all three of you to survive, we can't afford it any other way. You're much too young to be at sea alone, but you've survive before and even if there's a chance-"
"No." Nami interrupts with tears in her eyes, leaving Nako gasp. "I don't want too...Why do we have to leave, they're the ones who came here!?...I...I want to stay in this village...It's because...We're poor, that's why we can't stay together...Why? Why can't they just go away!?"
Arlong and his crew then begin to leave the house since Bell-mere is spared at the moment.
"Well then, now we can all be safe." Bell-mere said with a smirk, holding her arm. However, when the Arlong pirates were about to leave. "Wait, who said I was paying for me? That money I gave up was for my two daughters, but I can't pay you."
That got Genzo shocked with his face paled while Nami and Nojiko were stunned. Arlong then turned his head to her.
"What Are You Doing!?" Genzo yelled.
"It's okay." Bell-mere assures with a smile. "I have to do this for my family, even if it cost me my life."
Both Genzo and Nako were very upset that Bell-mere would do something reckless, but Bell-mere doesn't want to pretend that those two girls don't exist.
"It's true that three of us aren't related by blood, but we're family. All I've ever wanted was to be their mother." Bell-mere said with a smile on her face. "And now...I can be..."
With that, both Nojiko and Nami rush towards Bell-mere when they heard of what she said. Bell-mere heard the two girls as she then turn her head, seeing the two girls crying while rushing towards their foster mother as they hug her. Bell-mere then begin to cry as she tried to move her left arm, embracing her two foster daughters.
"Don't cry girls, I wish I could've...I could've provided for you better...I wish...I could've been a better mother to the both of you." Bell-mere cried.
"Don't say that!" Nojiko shouts.
"We don't want anything, just don't die!" Nami pleads.
"Don't leave us!"
"You need to see the map I'm gonna draw for the whole world!"
"Yes, your map." Bell-mere said with a smile, placing her hand on her head. "Go and make your dreams come true...For me."
Nami and Nojiko pleads their foster mother, but the Arlong pirates approaches them as he spoke.
"So these are your daughters?" Arlong questions, leaving both Nami and Nojiko terrified with dread.
"Yeah, that's right." Bell-mere admits with a scowl. "And you have to promise me that you'll leave them alone."
"No problem." Arlong agrees. "As long as you die like a good girl."
Genzo then drew out his two pistols, firing at Arlong, but Kuroobi blocks the gunshots with his fin as he then drew out his sword, slashing at village sheriff. Until, an angry mob charges after the Arlong pirates, earned his attention.
"Well then, don't kill them boys. No, just teach them a lesson." Arlong told his crews, walking towards. "Now to set an example."
Bell-mere then shove both Nojiko and Nami towards the house while Arlong drew out his pistol aiming at her. The Arlong pirates are beating the villagers like ragdolls, but the villagers are trying to fight back. After Arlong aim his pistol at Bell-mere, she then spoke.
"Nami, Nojiko." Bell-mere called them, seeing the two were crying in tears with grimace. "Love you."
With her last words, Arlong then shot Bell-mere point-blank range in the center of the chest. It leave Genzo, Nami, Nojiko, Nako, and the villagers devastated when they saw Arlong killed Bell-mere without any remorse or mercy, just cold-hearted, malicious, and cruelty.
'Never give up, you must find the strength inside you to always move on. You must live through every moment. And if you can smile and the face of it all, that is the greatest strength.'
"BELL-MERE!"
Arlong then laugh with cruelty as he spoke.
"While I'm in charge, those without money will die!?" Arlong declared as he then turn to those villagers. "Now do you stand me you worms!?"
Arlong then laugh once more, but Hachi notice from the back pocket.
"What's this? A map?" Hachi said with confusion, looking at the map.
"NO!" Nami yelled, earned their attention. "That's my map! I drew it! You can't have it!"
"A child drew this?" Arlong asks curiously, take the map as he look at it.
"Give it back!" Nami yelled, but Nojiko tried to stop her. But Arlong then smirked as he spoke.
"Very good." Arlong compliments, impressed when he look at Nami. "She can be useful, bring her with us."
Hachi then grab hold of Nami, taking her away, but Nojiko tried to stop the Arlong pirates for taking her faster sister away. Genzo stopped them as he spoke.
"Wait! You promise not to hurt her if you got your money." Genzo said, hold his sword.
"Right, I won't hurt her, just borrow her for a while." Arlong told him when Nami pleads for help.
"I won't let you take her!?" Genzo yelled.
With that, Kuroobi then slashes him, causing him to scream in pain when he felt multiple slashes. Both Nami and Nojiko were now even more devastated when they saw Genzo tried to save her. However, Genzo is still standing after the pain he had.
"I'll...I'll save you Nami...I won't let you go..." Genzo said weakly, leaving Nami pleads as Kuroobi then knocked him out with the sword pommel.
"PLEASE, NO MORE KILLING!"
Someday later, the peaceful life of the Cocoyashi village is now damaged and gone. The villagers, even Genzo, were in the infirmary were patched up ever since the fight against the Arlong pirates. They've heard the Arlong pirates have destroyed the ships, having Nami and Nojiko leave the island is now hopeless. The Marines won't help the Coconomi island because they have there hands full for fighting against pirates from the Grand Line. Nako told him that Bell-mere knew this would happen ever since her time as a Marine taught her what they're capable of, knowing that neither of them would escape. Even Nojiko was alone at Bell-mere's grave, upset that Nami has been taken away.
The next day, the villagers and Genzo were gathered as he spoke.
"We know where Arlong and his crew are! It looks like they're gonna settle right here on this island." Nako told them. "It's time to decide, we can fight to the death right now or we can take a chance and the Marines will someday come to save us and hope and pray we don't get killed before then!? Your choice!?"
"Only Marine Headquarters stands a chance against them." Genzo said, earned his attention. "But they have their hands full with the Grand Line. The chances that they will come all the way out here for us are as good as zero. But I can't just sit here and abandon Nami. We must fight!"
The villagers agreed to save Nami and fight against the Arlong pirates, even if they'll die. Until, they a footsteps as they turned when they saw Nami walking towards them. They were relived and glad to see Nami is still alive, but something is wrong, her eyes were now empty and she showed motionless.
They then rush towards Nami as Nojiko spoke.
"Nami, Nami. Are you okay? Did they hurt you any?" Nojiko asks with relief, but didn't get a respond. "Hey."
"I'm joining them." Nami muttered, leaving her confused. "I'm joining Arlong's crew."
Nojiko then widened her eyes with shock.
"I'm joining the Arlong pirates." Nami told her. "I get to be their navigator and draw maps."
The villagers, Nojiko, Genzo, and Nako were completely shocked when Nami told them. Genzo then approaches her as he spoke.
"When in a world are you talking about? Stay back." Genzo said, leaving Nojiko to step as he grab Nami's shoulders. "Didn't they threaten you to something terrible to you? Please, tell me."
"No." Nami shook her head.
"They must've done something!" Genzo shouts, not believing her as Nami shook her head frantically. "Tell the truth!"
"Let go of me!" Nami yelled, jerk her arm while turned her body away.
Until, they were completely shocked when they her left arm that has an Arlong pirate tattoo.
"But, that's an 'Arlong tattoo'!?" Nako exclaims.
"Not you." Genzo uttered with shock.
"But why?" Noijko questions, stunned.
"Look at this. They gave me all this money." Nami said, holding the money with her forced smile, but mental. "They say I'll buy anything I want."
And that got Nojiko really angry as she then rushed after her, tackled her down to the ground.
"NO! I WILL NEVER FORGIVE YOU IF YOU JOIN THEM!?" Nojiko yelled, slamming her with pure rage. "DON'T YOU UNDERSTAND!? THEY'VE KILLED BELL-MERE IN FRONT OF US! SHE DIED TO KEEP US SAFE! I'LL NEVER FORGIVE YOU! NEVER! YOU'RE NOT MY SISTER!"
"WHO CARES?! WHY WOULD I WANT TO LIVE LIKE BELL-MERE IF IT JUST GET YOU KILLED!? I DON'T WANT TO DIE LIKE THAT!" Nami yelled back at her, leaving every people in the village completely stunned.
"How could you?" Nojiko cried as the villagers were now angry for Nami's betrayal. "Bell-mere...Bell-mere Gave Her Life So That You And I Can Go On Living Together!?"
"That's enough, Nojiko." Genzo told her with his cold tone. "Leave Us Now, Nami! Never Set Foot In This Village Again!?"
Nami then runs off crying without saying one world. Genzo, Nako, and the villagers couldn't believe that Nami would betray Bell-mere and Nojiko for money which neither of them understands why would she do that or why would she join the Arlong pirates.
Later that night, Nojiko is walking back to Bell-mere's grave, not wanting to believe that her foster sister would betray Bell-mere. She then spots Nami right next to Bell-mere's grave as she spoke.
"Hey." Nami said, earned her attention. "Didn't Bell-mere always say: Good things will come your way as long as you continue to live? Lots of good things."
"Yes." Noijko nods.
"After Arlong took me, I watched him sink five Marine ships like they were toys." Nami told her. "I don't think they'll send anymore, we're on our own. So I decided I'll do something about it. I made a deal with Arlong to buy Cocoyashi village from him."
"Buy Cocoyashi?" Nojiko repeats, approaches her foster sister. "How?"
"For a hundred million berries." Nami answered, leaving her shocked. "If I buy the town, we'll be free. No one else will die. And I'll I have to do is join his crew and draw maps."
"But hundred million berries? You can't earn that work in your whole life!?" Nojiko points out.
"I will get that money no matter what. People are having a hard enough time paying their own tribute." Nami told her which Nojiko knew that she's right. "So I have to do this alone. If anyone tries to help me, they'll just get hurt."
Even though, Nojiko knew that Nami has made a valid point which it'll be really hard for her to get that amount of money on her own.
"Won't it be hard?" Nojiko asks.
"Yeah." Nami answered.
"Living with the people who killed out mother?" Nojiko asks again.
"I'll be okay, I'll just smile every time I see his face. I'm not gonna cry anymore." Nami said, raise her head up. "I'm gonna fight by myself."
Nojiko then shed in tears since Nami is gonna fight on her own to get the amount on money she needs to buy the Cocoyashi village on her own without anybodies help.
That's it for the 26th chapter. Sorry I took so long, it took a while to get it finished. But this is longest chapter, well, not the first time.