A/N: I'm very proud of this chapter. It can be read as a lighthearted one-shot to newcomers. For current readers I hope it will be a nice deviation from the violence and dark themes in this story. My goal is not for this story to be angst. As always, enjoy the reading.
The captain of the straw hats Roronora Zoro stood upon the lookout tower of the Thousand Sunny. His new gelatinous friend Nitro rested on his shoulder puffing a cigar.
"It's early captain, and it's too damn cold out here." Nitro said shivering from the early morning breeze.
"It shouldn't be too much longer." Zoro answered still looking in the distance. The pair embraced the sun and clear sky when the vessel passed through the thick fog.
On cue they noticed a lone seagull flying overhead dropping the World Press newspaper in Zoro's hands. The captain wasted no time tearing off the string to read the headlines.
'The Regime strikes deal with Entertainment Capitol of the World.' Reading the article below he wasn't surprised to find out the new government acquired twenty percent of the world's wealth. Scanning the bottom of the paper he saw the pictures of Rob Lucci, Isshin Fujitora, and Ryokugyu Greenbull. They had opposed the Regime's deal on Gran Carina, ultimately being eliminated in the process. Zoro couldn't care less, the world wouldn't miss any of them.
Before the swordsman could toss the newspaper on the deck below, Nitro stopped him.
"Turn the page captain." He spoke not taking his eyes off the paper.
Zoro turned the page nearly dropping the newspaper from his surprise.
The secondary headline read: 'Regime Registration Act'. It offered Pirates and former Navy soldiers a chance to renounce their old ways and join the Regime and integrate into societies successfully. The requirements were simple: Register at the nearest Regime outpost identifying yourself, former alliance, and devil fruit powers (if any).
"They say they're offering it, but it's mandatory." Nitro said not taking his eyes off the paper. "It's a legislative bill."
Zoro continued to read to the end, noticing a familiar signature etched across the bottom; signed high councilor Monkey D. Luffy. The samurai shifted uncomfortably at the thought Luffy would approve something like this. The Navy didn't surprise him, but he was forcing pirates to turn themselves in as well.
"That kid must have a helluva council with him, they're genius. Pirates and Navy have been, and are a threat to world and national security. Even if there are good pirate groups like you guys out there—there are a shit load of them that would love nothing more than to loot, rape, and pillage nations." Nitro spoke in awe at the new bill.
"They're offering everyone new lives, a fresh start. We don't have to disband per se. Instead of sailing freely however, it will be in service for the nations." Zoro said re-reading the piece of legislation.
"It's better than the alternative, they don't want to unmercifully kill every enemy—they truly want peace." Nitro continued to puff his cigar as Zoro landed on deck.
Nitro was interested in the captain's decision. In the short few days they've been together, he could see Zoro wanted nothing more than to see his crew safe.
"What's it going to be captain?" Nitro asked stopping the swordsman in his tracks.
Zoro didn't know which way he was swaying. Not registering with the new government meant they wouldn't sail together the same way again. They would keep their straw hat sigil, and be labeled enemies of the free world. However, if they did register he had a good feeling Luffy would make sure they were all taken care of for life. The captain torn, trotted towards the Library. He didn't want to worry the crew with something like this; especially today. He opened the desk drawer noticing Sabo's private officer transponder number. He took the card out examining it, debating to make the call. Zoro ultimately decided against it willing to let the matter wait.
"Hey, what's this?" Nitro asked pulling a photo out from the drawer examining it.
Zoro placed the paper and card in the opposite drawer before turning to look at the picture Nitro held in his hand.
The photo nearly made the hardened warrior shed a tear. It was taken when the crew first reunited before heading to Fishman Island. The crew were huddled together with the camera placed on the ground facing towards them. Zoro stood in the center with his crew mates all lined around him. To his immediate right stood Nami as she stood bending slightly towards the camera staying close to Luffy, with a jovial expression. The ex-captain's smile said it all, his teeth shined in the reflection. He swore he'd only seen the ex- navigator that happy when she was around Luffy. Zoro took the picture from Nitro placing it back in the drawer; he wished he never saw it.
"I'm sorry cap, I never meant to—"
"It's fine Nitro. Besides it's day of celebration, we'll worry about all that after this. So how be we start drinkin eh?" Zoro challenged heading for the door. Nitro danced happily intending to binge drink till he collapsed.
Sanji woke up to see Usopp and Chopper shaking the hell out of his bunk.
"What the hell! Stop that idiots!" Sanji shouted at the duo.
"It's time to get ready, you overslept idiot!" They yelled back in unison causing him to fall out of his hammock.
"Shit!" He said gathering his clothes running for the bathroom. The cook tried to open the door to no avail.
"You missed your chance man, Augur is going to take days." Usopp said leaning against the opposite wall.
"Huh what do you mean? I need it now! Hey Augur, hurry the hell up." Sanji shouted pounding on the door with his fist.
The door opened to let out a horrid odor as the toilet finished flushing.
"Jeez what the f—" both the men started before grasping the bridges of their noses.
"It's not my fault, it was your damn enchiladas chef." Van Augur spoke holding the Sanji back from entering.
"I don't care, let me through." Sanji said trying to pass the man. Usopp's eyes began to roll in the back of his head from the smell, he was close to passing out.
Augur rubbed the back of his neck. "I-uh would not go in there for a good forty, to forty five minutes."
"No way, I'm late!" In one motion he was in the bathroom already in the shower.
"Bro seriously! Ever heard of incense!" The two men outside could only snicker at their friend's torment.
In the girl's dormitory it was a lot more civil and mature than their counterparts. Pudding brushed her hair to straighten it fully, making sure no strand stood out of place.
Smoothie sat on the large bed laying out her sister's clothes, a wedding dress stood out sparking in the daylight.
"It's beautiful sis. I'm really happy for you, our family would be happy as well." Smoothie offered.
"I'm really glad you came, it means so much to have you here." Pudding said pausing momentarily from brushing, before resuming shortly after.
Knocks from the door pulled the sisters from their thoughts as Robin, Carrot, and Wanda entered the room huddling around the bride to be. The ladies couldn't help but gush at their friend's new hairstyle.
"How romantic! You're truly getting married!" Carrot squealed wrapping her arms around Pudding, hopping up and down excitedly.
"Yes, I can't wait, I truly am happy." Pudding said smiling towards her friends.
Robin handed Smoothie the veil to go along with the rest of the attire. "Everything is almost ready. Franky is finishing up the food now." Robin said much to the shock of the room.
"Franky can cook?!" The group shouted looking at the archeologist who warmly smiled in return.
A series of light knocks broke the women from their conversation as Brook poked his head through the door.
"Ah my lovely ladies, it is almost time." He said before heading back out onto the deck.
"We can't wait too see you." Wanda said giving Pudding one last hug before leaving the room with Carott and Robin in tow.
Smoothie stood crouching slightly, bringing her sister's white sparkly gown, placing it over Pudding's body.
"What do you think sis?" She asked looking at the woman in the mirror. Smoothie thought Pudding looked like a true princess of Totto Land like this. Her previous wedding would be rectified today.
"Perfect." Pudding smiled wrapping her arms around her long legged sister. Smoothie began helping the light brunette get ready for her big day.
Outside on the deck, Brook, Chopper, and Augur were putting the finishing decorations on the Thousand Sunny. It was far from extravagant, but the soon to be wed couple insisted it be that way. The last wedding they had nearly everyone in attendance. All they cared about now, was having their friends along with them.
The trio finished bringing out the chairs and tables that lined up along the grass area. Franky brought out the silver food trays placing them on the long table leaned up against the railing.
"Looking good guys, we almost done?" Franky asked looking over at the three as they placed white sheets on the tables.
"All done! We should start anytime!" Chopper excitedly shouted.
"Let's get our man then!" Franky said leading the others back into the men's dormitory.
"Cologne?" Usopp asked reading from his list with a pen.
"Check!" Sanji answered.
"Handkerchief?"
"Check."
"Wedding vows?"
"Check!"
"Bowtie?"
"Shit! Where did I put it?!" Sanji yelled running in a mini circle with his hands in the air.
Zoro and the others entered piling around the groom.
"Lucky your best man is looking out for ya." Zoro spoke throwing Sanji an extra bowtie. The chef swiftly caught the tie fumbling to put in on.
Usopp threw the list on the floor. "Well that's everything, it's on you now Sanji."
The group noticed he was wheezing still trying to put on his tie. He was nervous as hell slightly hyperventilating.
"You'll be fine Sanji, it is your wife's day after all yohoho!" Brook laughed heading out to the deck.
"Alright lets go." Sanji grinned leading his friends outside. His breathing started to become erratic again when he got to the deck, inhaling the cool breeze.
Brook began playing his violin softly near the front of the ship. The men made their way over opposite of Brook. Zoro and Usopp stood alongside their cook.
The rest took their seats on the white chairs laid out patiently waiting for the ladies to arrive.
"Should we tell 'em his bowtie is a little uh...off?" Usopp asked looking at the chef who was shoveling mints into his mouth.
Zoro scratched his chin before he smirked. "Na, let it be."
The straw hat women emerged from the ship walking down the aisle standing beside Brook.
Smoothie stood opposite of the three men awaiting her sister's arrival.
Before Robin took her seat, she got made her way over towards the groom. Sanji was too busy reading his vows to notice her.
"Sanji, you have to fix this." Robin said wrapping her hand around the bowtie glaring at the snickering duo responsible. She summoned two arms from the ground behind the pair, giving each a light smack.
"Thanks Robin, you're a life saver."
"Don't mention it, you look handsome." She smiled patting his tie down before returning to her seat. The chef continued re-reading his vows.
Nitro sat on the bed studying the woman he considered a niece.
"What is it girlie, nervous?" Nitro asked as she twirled a few times in the mirror examining every curve of her figure.
"Well how does it look?" Pudding gave a final twirl of her glittery dress.
"Gorgeous princess, now lets head out huh? I'm nervous too y'know." Nitro grinned extending his arm to loop through her's.
Brook changed his tune to slow the mood down as the door opened revealing the bride and her escort. The guests in the chairs rose at attention turning to face the pair. Chopper and Carrot picked up two baskets filled with white flower petals.
Sanji stuck his vows into his pocket, wanting nothing more than to pull out a cigarette to calm his nerves. He couldn't see his bride to be yet, a veil had covered her features. This experience differed greatly from his first wedding. The latter was a shame marriage, as they were forced into it. Now the pair were going to commit themselves to each other till death; he couldn't have been happier.
Chopper and Carrot escorted the pair down the aisle tossing the white petals high in the air. The deck covered with petals resembled large snow flakes. The crew could only watch in awe as the surreal scene took place.
Van Augur took his place acting as the marriage officiant. He stood calmly behind Sanji and Smoothie awaiting the bride's arrival. Brook's song came to end as Nitro helped Pudding up the steps. Sanji's heart nearly leapt out of his chest as his bride turned to face him. He'd already done this before so why did he feel nervous? He tried running the memorized words from his vows in his head.
Dearly beloved, we are gathered here today in the presence of these witnesses, to join Vinsmoke Sanji, and, Charlotte Pudding in matrimony commended to be honorable among all; and therefore is not to be entered into lightly but reverently, passionately, lovingly and solemnly. Into this - these two persons present now come to be joined. If any person can show just cause why they may not be joined together - let them speak now or forever hold their peace. A moment of silence passed before Van Augur continued.
"You shall say the first vows together, as one. Then the groom will give his, followed by his bride's." The couple shifted closer to one another staring into one another's souls; both of them wanted this badly.
"I, Charlotte Pudding/Vinsmoke Sanji, take you Vinsmoke Sanji/Charlotte Pudding, to be my wife/husband, to have and to hold from this day forward, for better or for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish; from this day forward until death do us part." The couple spoke the first vow together showing their strong unity. It was the cook's turn as he tried to maintain his breathing. Gathering himself he looked at his future wife through her veil; she was perfect—with her, he could do anything.
"I, Sanji Vinsmoke, take you, Charlotte Pudding, to be my wife, my friend, my faithful partner and my love from this day forward. In the presence of our family and friends, I offer you my solemn vow to be your faithful partner in sickness and in health, in good times and in bad, and in joy as well as in sorrow. I promise to love you unconditionally, to support you in your goals, to honor and respect you, to laugh with you and cry with you, and to cherish you for as long as we both shall live." Sanji said proudly much to the happiness of his crew mates. Zoro and Usopp couldn't help but share a smirk, they've never been prouder than their boy than now.
Pudding had practiced for months, she showed no outwards signs of nervousness. "I, Charlotte Pudding, take you Sanji Vinsmoke to be my husband my partner in life and my one true love. I will cherish our union and love you more each day than I did the day before. I will trust you and respect you, laugh with you and cry with you, loving you faithfully through good times and bad, regardless of the obstacles we may face together. I give you my hand, my heart, and my love, from this day forward for as long as we both shall live.
The officiant began the next part of his ceremony motioning to the best man and matron of honor to present the couple their rings. Usopp fumbled attempting to hand the ring to Zoro.
"Come on man." Zoro screamed lowly so only the marksman could hear.
"I know, I know, here." He said shoving the ring in his hand. Zoro handed it to Sanji who could only stare at the large diamond ring. It was his family's wedding present given to him before their rescue mission.
Noticing the two had their rings ready the officiant spoke. "You may exchange rings."
Sanji handed the extravagant ring to his future wife as she audibly gasped.
"It was my mother's." Sanji smiled warmly staring into his wife's eyes.
Pudding handed Sanji his silver ring as it glistened from the sunlight. It had intricate symbols inscribed on the front. The Vinsmoke family and Charlotte clan sigils were wrapped around each other neatly. The cook was overwhelmed by the wonderful gift; he would cherish it forever.
Brook began to softly strum his violin again as Franky and Robin lit a row candles signaling the next phase of the wedding.
Van Augur cleared his throat before speaking. "I haven't been apart of this crew for very long. But in the short time I've been apart of it, I know their truly is something special among your group. I've married for love before, and I've seen my fair share of others marry for the same reason as well. But never have I seen something like this. Two people being in an arranged marriage, then falling in love, marrying again—properly. It truly is a love that defied all odds, many obstacles, but it shows that though you may experience those in marriage. Your true love for one another will carry you on, from the bottom of my heart, I am I blessed to witness your ceremony." Van Augur spoke nodding towards the couple who couldn't have been more grateful for his words.
"By the power vested in me, I now pronounce you husband and wife. You may now kiss the bride." Augur said turning to Sanji, taking a step back.
Without hesitation he lifted her veil to look upon her face for the first time that day. The two shared a passionate kiss as he pulled her so she rested on his chest.
Everyone clapped and whistled as the officiant gave his closing remarks.
"I present to you the newly married couple, Vinsmoke Sanji and Charlotte Pudding." The guests stood and applauded as the newlyweds waved to happily to them.
Chopper released a crate of pigeons as they flew high above the vessel. Rice was tossed on the newlyweds as they made their way towards the table.
"Come on everyone it's time to eat!" Sanji shouted causing all the guests to rush toward the food table, rudely shoving one another.
Zoro held Smoothie and Usopp back with his boot as he tried grabbing a plate.
"I'm captain, I get served first!" He yelled.
Sanji coughed loudly, his hand interlocked with his wife's. "We're first swordsman."
"Damn you, on any other day cook. Congratulations." Zoro said warmly smiling at the couple. It was a slight surprise to them, he never smiled like that.
The guests all gathered at the two tables. One for the men and the other for the women. Pudding couldn't believe she was finally married, especially after all she had to endure through her young life. It wasn't until she realized he was more than his facade entailed. Underneath he was a good person that cared deeply for his loved ones. Now began a new chapter for the both of them. The bride could finally let out a sigh of relief as she glanced at her husband. He was busy laughing with his buddies who all huddled around him.
Robin and the rest of table couldn't help gush at the size of the diamond Pudding held on her finger. It truly looked like it belonged to a royal family. The bride giddily bounced in chair, happy to show it off.
Sanji leaned back in his chair with his hands behind his head. It seemed all his struggles had led him to this point. The woman he planned to rescued agreed to marry an idiot like him. Life seemed to smile upon the straw hats as Brook brought out his guitar, hooking it to a nearby amp.
"Alright Sanji Bro! Get your married ass on the dance floor for some SUPER dancing." Franky grinned pulling the chef to his feet.
Sanji reluctantly got to his feet as his wife continued giggling with her friends. He glanced over his shoulder to see his table shooing him away. Turning his full attention back towards Pudding, he could see how happy she was. The nervousness evaporated as he extended his hand out to her.
"Shall we?" He asked a slight smirk accompanying his features.
"Of course." She answered as he pulled the petite woman to her feet heading to the middle of the deck. Pudding looked back to see her table as they chuckled at her nervousness.
"Sanji, I've never really learned how to dance." She confessed.
The cook's grin only grew wider. "It's alright, I'll take the lead Pudding, just follow me." He whispered into her ear.
He grabbed her hand with one hand while wrapping the other snaked around her waist. The two glided gracefully across the deck, as Sanji twirled his wife in his hand before pulling her close and dipping her towards the dance floor. The guest gathered around the couple partnering up to join the newlyweds.
Zoro stayed back at the table with his right hand blob.
"Guess it's just you and me now cap." Nitro said wiping tears from his eyes. "They grow up so fast don't they?" The blob began to sniffle as he lit another cigar.
Zoro watched the crew dance together in pairs and a group. He would never dance, it was one of his rules. The swordsman couldn't help reflect on the photo he saw earlier. Wondering if Luffy would ever return, he highly doubted it. The man had the world in the palm of his hand, the men that followed him were depending on him. Just like his crew did now, he wouldn't let them down. The samurai was starting to make the only decision that mattered.
"Hey what are you two still doing over here? Nitro, my wife's looking for you." Sanji said causing the gelatin to scurry to the dance floor in a hurry.
Sanji plopped on the seat next to his best man. "What's up man? Something up?" The groom asked not taking his eyes off Pudding.
"It's nothing man." Zoro lied noticing his friend's stare. He didn't want the cook to worry about things out of their control, especially on his wedding night. "You know I don't dance." The samurai turned his head away in shame.
"Ah come on sour puss, y'know I didn't think you were afraid of anything. I guess I was wrong, you aren't fearless like I thought." Sanji smirked seeing Zoro seethe in irritation.
"You weren't wrong, I fear nothing." He spoke through gritted teeth, standing from his seat heading for the dance floor.
"All too easy." Sanji said to himself drinking the rest of his cup before following his friend.
The crew mates danced to the skeleton's greatest hits all while consuming massive amounts of alcohol. Time passed on quickly as the sky started to darken. Guests shuffled back and forth from the food table, to their respective table, and finally back to the dance floor. Zoro hadn't moved an inch. He stood on the outside drinking from his bottle with Nitro bouncing to the rhythm on his shoulder.
Franky and Augur burst through the kitchen door bringing out the large wedding cake setting it on the banquet table. Robin grabbed the bride and groom leading them to the exquisite cake. It was tradition in a wedding for the newlyweds to slice off the first piece.
The newlyweds eagerly held the knife together cutting into the first slice. It was symbolic representing their new beginning together. Pudding took part of the first piece, partially feeding it to her husband before smearing the rest on his face.
"It's like that then." He said picking her bridal style before kissing her with cake on his lips. She squealed slightly before kissing him back fully.
The guests continued dancing into the night as Brook slowed the mood way down for the couples to take the dance floor.
Zoro leaned against the rail currently in a drinking contest with his right hand gelatin.
Robin approached the pair a slight frown on her face. "Come on, I got you a partner." She pulled the pair onto the floor much to his reluctance.
"Alright, I'll dance with your friend. I need your help afterwards though." He said seriously. Robin glanced at him before nodding.
"Deal, now here." She said throwing him on the dance floor.
Zoro stood face to face with his vice captain Smoothie.
"She's too tall for me." Zoro deadpanned causing Robin to giggle as she latched onto Franky.
"Have fun." She grinned disappearing into the small crowd.
"You're a jerk captain." Smoothie deadpanned back as the two began to dance somewhat awkwardly together.
Brook began to play a faster song as the tempo sped up. Zoro looked across the floor to see the women backing down their partners in a very intimate way of dancing.
"Oh hell no Im ou—" before he could get away, Smoothie's death grip had him trapped, threatening to rip his shirt.
"Tch, whatever." He said giving up as Smoothie began to grind on him slowly.
Smoothie was slightly disappointed with his response. "What's with the lame reaction, you got a woman or something?"
"Sort of, its complicated." He spoke lowly hoping she didn't hear him. It was tough for him to open up.
"Lighten up captain it's just dancing. I have someone in mind too." Smoothie rolled her eyes at his expression of his impassiveness. "Who is it?" The woman did not stop her movements while talking with him. He thought this wasn't the best place to have this conversation.
"Her name's Tashigi. She's a former Navy vice admiral lieutenant. A great swordsman like myself, a good person." Zoro steadied himself placing his hands on hips.
"That is complicated." She stated changing her rhythm to the new song.
Zoro crossed his arms now curious to her situation. "Lets hear it, who's yours?"
Smoothie nearly stopped her movements not answering his question right away.
"My half brother Katakuri." She said hoping he wouldn't catch it.
Zoro's eyes widened slightly. "That's way more complicated than my situation. Though I don't judge, you feel how you feel." He said not stopping his movements.
"I know it's wrong in some ways, but we've always shared a connection, even as children." She explained to which the captain just turned her around to face him.
"Like I said you don't have to explain yourself to me. In the span of a month I've lost two of my closest friends, then seen one of my best friends marry the woman of his dreams. I've seen my crew die, only to rise from the ashes finding strength again. If that's how you guys do it on Whole Cake Island then it is what it is. Life is too damn short to not pursue the ones you love, trust me." He said the last part against a little grimly in remembrance of Luffy and Nami.
Smoothie's embrace brought him out of his thoughts. He returned it wholeheartedly, happy he could comfort his crew mates. "Thanks for the dance captain." She winked before heading off toward the tables. He couldn't help smile, love did truly conquer all.
Zoro palmed his forehead noticing the two lovebirds loudly slam the door to the ship. He could only assume they were consummating their marriage— it was about damn time. Looking around the dance floor he could see he was the only one standing there. Everyone was in their own groups small talking.
"Zoro, you needed to talk I assume?" Robin asked smiling warmly.
Zoro nodded. "Not here, it has to stay between us for now." He spoke signaling her to follow him.
The pair ended up in the library as he pulled the newspaper out from the drawer he left it in earlier. "Take a look." He spoke handing her the paper.
It didn't take but a minute for Robin to scan the page, reading it in its entirety.
"That's interesting, but I don't see why this—"
"Turn the page." He instructed.
Robin flipped the page hurriedly reading the page. Her eyes widened realizing what it meant.
"It's legislation... a bill? They want us to retire?" Robin asked disbelieving what she was reading. It was impossible, she never misread anything in her life. Robin couldn't believe the familiar signature of her former captain at the bottom of the page.
"What do you think we should do Robin?" He asked studying her expression. Right away the samurai could tell she was feeling conflicted.
"I- I'm not sure Zoro, we won't be able to sail around like we used too. All our dreams will be put on hold, almost indefinitely." She spoke her eyes rescanning the bill once again.
"I think we should register with the Regime. Luffy would make sure we are taken care of for life. If we negotiated for terms, I'm sure we can come to an agreement— for all of us." Zoro spoke attempting to light a cigar. Robin took her eyes off the paper briefly snatching it away.
"Not in here." She said firmly before giving an audible sigh. "I can't decide on this now, but I understand why you wanted me to know. You can trust me to hold off on this for now." She grinned. "What's the worst that could happen, it's not like the Regime would skin us if we said no." Robin joked.
"I hate your humor. I don't know how Franky stands you." Zoro smirked earning a slight frown from Robin. A hand smacked the back of his head roughly as he nearly face planted on the desk.
"You're such a jerk captain." She stood preparing to go. "Zoro, I think it's the right decision as well. I'll need more time, but whatever you decide, I'm sure we'll all be behind you."
The swordsman nodded watching her exit.
"Finally." He sighed kicking his feet up on the desk. Before he could light the cigar one of Robin's arms appeared crushing the tobacco in its hand.
"Damn witch!" Zoro shouted slamming his fists on the desk causing the drawer to pop open once again. Sabo's card gleamed in the light causing the captain to pick it up once again.
The straw hat captain dialed the transponder number leaning back in his chair. After a few more rings a female voice answered the phone.
"Hello is Sabo there?" Zoro asked impatiently.
"I'm sorry the emperor cannot take personal calls at this time. May I ask who's calling?"
"Roronora Zoro, Captain of the Straw Hat Pirates." He answered patiently awaiting her response.
Her voice slightly faltered. "We've been waiting for your call all day. The emperor will be pleased you called. He will be in Dressrosa in the next few days. The emperor will take your private appointment for your crew then. You made the right decision, captain. Have a wonderful rest of your night." She spoke disconnecting the line shortly after.
Zoro sat at his desk reflecting on his decision. He could only hope it was in the crew's best interests. It gave him hope, the emperor would personally take their appointment. Luffy still looked out for them even if he wasn't around.
The captain couldn't help pulling out the photo of the crew after they reunited, examining it once again. He sighed audibly seeing the two missing crew mates.
"You would still be here if she was right captain? She loved you so much, but you were too much of idiot to notice." Zoro couldn't help chuckling to himself smiling at the expression of his former crew mates.
"There you are!"
Zoro quickly shoved the items in his desk turning towards the booming voice.
"Robin told me you'd be in here." Wanda said dragging him by his wrist. "Come on, no more working, time to dance."
"Dammit woman, I said I don't dance!" Zoro shouted as the mink ignored him pulling him out onto the deck.
"Hey cap, that your lady?" Augur asked pointing to Smoothie who was conversing with Usopp, Chopper, and Carrot.
"No, although I wouldn't try it." He warned smirking at former Blackbeard marksman.
"Nothing wrong with a little bump and grind cap, just as friends. Hell, that's a whole lotta woman." Augur smirked towards the pair.
Zoro regarded the man with disdain for a second before grabbing Wanda's hand taking the lead. "Come on let's dance."
With the mood slowed down Zoro took hold of the mink lady wrapping around her waist, as she placed her arms around his neck.
"What is it? Something on your mind?" He asked wondering what her look of determination was for. Wanda never opened up about what really happened that night.
"You can tell me, whatever—"
"I plan on killing your former captain." She said looking directly at him. His expression remained unreadable.
"Why tell me?" He asked glancing around hoping the others didn't overhear her.
Wanda ooked hesitant before responding. "I wanted to know if you'll stop me."
Zoro could only shake his head. "If he did what you say he did, then you have every right."
"I know you think he's the same person you once knew. But he's not, your former captain is a mass murderer." Wanda said wanting to break down.
Zoro pulled her into his arms hugging her tightly. "I'm really sorry, I know it hurts and I'll never understand. But only revenge and hate breeds only more of the same. It's a never ending cycle—that much I do understand." He said wiping the tears from the edge of her eyes.
The two continued to slow dance enjoying the rhythm of the music. A loud cracking sound broke them out of their dance.
Van Augur was laid out across the deck talking like a baby. Smoothie stood over him with a raised fist. "Handsy bastard." She muttered crossing her arms.
"HA! Serves you right ya bastard." Zoro laughed earning chuckles from the others.
Usopp shook his head slinging his comrade over his shoulder. "What the hell am I gonna do with you huh?" He asked the incoherent man who continued sprouting gibberish.
"No shut up, that's bullshit." Usopp said to the nearly unconscious man disappearing into the ship.
Zoro led Wanda by the wrist toward the table where Carrot and Chopper resided.
The pair caught the two minks sharing a quick kiss.
"Carrot!" Wanda yelled pulling her friend up from the chair. Zoro watched the two head to the opposite table.
"Woah, nice one Chopper." Zoro said folding his arms. "Didn't think ya had it you, she's cute too."
Chopper could only start to dance happily before Zoro held his shoulders lightly. "Don't start dancing yet, you barley just begun my young friend."
"Whaaat?!" Chopper asked gripping his cheeks.
The swordsman grinned at the innocence of the doctor. "Don't worry, just...take it slow alright?" He asked rubbing the top of his hat. Chopper could only nod happily with a pink tint accompanying his cheeks.
The night began to shut down as Brook played his violin again softly. Everyone else ate and drank happily, not letting the food go to waste.
The crew began heading back into the Thousand Sunny paired off. Eventually Chopper and Zoro remained sitting at their table.
"Hey Zoro?" Chopper asked breaking the captain from his thoughts.
"What's up man?"
"I miss them. Even if today was one of the best days I've ever had. I can't help but miss Nami and Luffy." Chopper said taking a sip from his bottle.
"I know, I miss them too. I hope we'll see Luffy again buddy. Now come on, let's get that left over cake and some ice cream I got saved up." Zoro said putting the reindeer on his shoulders.
"Okay! That always make me happy!" Chopper danced on the swordsman's neck.
Zoro gave one last glance at the night sky reflecting on the amazing day before heading into the kitchen with Chopper.
Soon after the straw hats fell fast asleep. It was by far their best night since banding together after the incident and losing their two leaders.
Far away the Regime Mothership anchored off the shore of the New Royal Capital City.
The council stood toasting their large shot glasses.
"The royal sector is nearly complete along with the grand palace. This place is truly remarkable." Dragon spoke.
The councilmen held off their shots waiting for Ace, who couldn't grasp the glass due to not having a physical body.
"Hold up a sec will ya?" He flew away quickly possessing a random soldier before running back up to the council. "Alright let's drink!" He shouted in the soldier's body.
"Alright! Long live the Regime and Ace!" Marco shouted downing his alcohol first. The men quickly refilled their glasses looking to celebrate more.
"Emperor Sabo!" Another random soldier ran up to the group nearly out of breath. "Gerald?" The soldier asked staring in disbelief as his friend laughed with the councilmen. Enlisted men wouldn't be caught dead fraternizing with them unless they had a death wish.
"What is it soldier?" Sabo asked growing impatient.
"The Straw Hat Pirate's captain Roronora Zoro called, he's seeking an audience from you. They want to register with the Regime sir." He spoke running back towards his post.
Ace started to laugh out loud after the soldier ran off. "This guy's name is Gerald, damn what a chump." He joked picking up his shot glass.
Luffy ignored the small talk of the council addressing Sabo and the newly initiated Coby. "Coby, your unallocated Navy funds will go to my former crew. Sabo I expect you to give them everything they ask for, make sure they retire for good by making them an offer they can't refuse." Luffy spoke picking up his shot glass.
"Yes, High councilor." Coby smirked bowing slightly. He was just grateful to be alive and apart of their club, even in some small way.
"Consider it done brother, your friends will always be taken care of, count on me." Sabo said smirking towards Ace who impatiently wrapped his arms around his two brothers.
"What are we waiting for my brothers, the world is ours now." Ace said looking towards the new capital.
The council huddled up surrounding the three brothers.
"The Age of Pirates, is coming to an end." Luffy said looking each one of hid councilmen in the eye. Each one nodded understanding the implications of their new legislation.
"Brothers." Luffy called raising his shot glass.
"Family." They responded toasting the high councilor then quickly taking their shots.
The men all turned their attention back to the incomplete city which continued to let in numerous amounts of Regime ships to further speed up the construction process.
The Regime era had just begun.