A/N: Just a heads up, I may compartmentalize a lot in my schedule, but unless this story's status changes from in progress to complete, I'll never abandon it despite being busy with other endeavors. Thanks for the patience and as always enjoy the read.
Charlotte Katakuri sat in his absurdly large chair laid about on the deck of the Regime ship. The morning sun rays shone down brightly basking the vessel in a humid heat—his homeland of Whole Cake Island drew close.
The man that stood nearly four meters sighed audibly adjusting his tinted shades, sinking further back into the comfortable lawn chair. Despite the non-stop pace the emperors worked during their short tenure, it was always nice to receive a holiday.
Katakuri chuckled to himself thinking of his brother Cracker sitting on Mama's throne bored out of his mind; complaining that he'd rather be out in the seducing forest munching on biscuits.
"Sir your delivery of doughnuts." An officer spoke setting three dozen boxes by Katakuri's side table, causing him to raise the glasses off his face.
"Send the chefs my compliments, make sure I'm not disturbed." Katakuri stated earning a salute from the woman who scurried off to tell the crew it was his feeding time.
The Regime soldier nor councilmen had judged the man based on his dogtooth appearance; they had far too much respect to make such sophomoric comments. It brought a small smile to his face knowing he found a secondary home where he wouldn't be pronounced as a repulsive monster—the soldiers could care less when it came right down to it—he was a savior of the free world, right alongside their beloved high councilor.
Katakuri licked his lips before popping a small doughnut into his mouth. "Mmm doughnuts yummy yummy." He happily hummed indulging in his favorite sweets. Though they weren't on par with the ones from his homeland, they were by far second best. There wasn't many things that made the earnest man smile honestly, but times like this brought him comfort to move forward in life; no matter how minuscule it seemed, this was an imperative part of his daily ritual.
His den den mushi on the small table next to him rang off the hook. His first thought was to ignore thinking it was something unimportant. Katakuri reluctantly snatched the transponder snail answering the call after it refused to stop.
"What is it? I'm eating." Katakuri said, irritated his joyous pastime was interrupted.
"Apologizes Emperor Katakuri, we're approaching Whole Cake Island, e.t.a five minutes." The officer stated evenly.
"Got it, thanks for letting me know." He hung the snail up standing from his seat with a box of doughnuts cradled in his arm. In the distance his homeland began to appear through the heat waves. He let out a sigh of relief to be seeing his family again. It'd been roughly a month since he'd been home, yet the feeing of entering Totto land's atmosphere never got old.
The Charlotte Clan in all its entirety stood proudly on the beach awaiting their leader's arrival. Despite the collective loss of their mother known to the world as Big Mom; the siblings knew there would come a day for her demise. The childlike god only cared for one person in her existence, willing to destroy everything to obtain victory. However the siblings wouldn't dare go against her despite the monster she was—they had lucked out when the high councilor held a grudge against their mom; waging war on the gigantic empress who's hunger knew no limit. With support from one another and a now thriving community that grew respect from around the world—the siblings managed to overcome their pain; together.
The Charlotte sisters Charlotte Amande, Cinnamon, Brûlée, Galette, Compote, Poire, and Joconde bounced with excitement as the Regime ship began to dock at the harbor.
The brothers:Charlotte Cracker, Oven, Nusstorte, Noisette, Charlotte Mont-d'Or, , Snack, Bavarois, Brownie, Mascarpone and Decuplets all stood calmly observing their admired brother stand tall at the helm of the ship.
"There he is! There he is!" the youngest sister Joconde screamed with glee jumping up and down.
"Brother Katakuri...your home." Brûlée sobbed letting tears spill from the corners of her eyes.
Cracker crossed his arms rolling his eyes. "It's about damn time, I've gotten sick of this leader business."
Oven smirked throwing his arm around Cracker smiling widely. "Aw, someone missed his older brother."
"Shut up! I'll kill you!" Cracker shouted smacking Oven's arm off him.
"Yeah?! I'd like to see that!" Oven yelled back as the two got in each other's face, electricity sparked from their eyes.
Katakuri smirked witnessing his brothers holding Cracker and Oven back from their childish squabble. He smiled seeing his sisters cheer his name waving to him as he disembarked onto the dock.
The moment he stepped onto the beach the sisters crushed him in a vice like hug nearly tackling him the force. He immediately stretched his arms scooping the group into his embrace. In rare moments like this, he felt true happiness.
As the warm embrace broke, Katakuri greeted his brothers with a simple wave.
"Good to see ya again..." Oven said folding his arms glaring at the leader. "Who am I kidding?! We missed you brother!" The man fell on his knees tugging at the emperor's vest.
The group with the exception of Cracker, hugged Katakuri roughly as he placed his hands on top of their heads acknowledging their embrace.
"Bunch of softies." Cinnamon said rolling her eyes at their display of emotion causing the sisters to giggle.
Cracker faced his older brother as the group dispersed conversing amongst one another.
"Hey! Don't ever leave me in charge again, you hear me?! I thought I was going to die of boredom." Cracker growled earning a smirk from his brother.
He ruffled his younger brother's hair as best he could. "I see, so you did miss your older brother."
"Shut up! I didn't, I just told you, I was bored!" Cracker bellowed waving his arms comically causing the siblings to share collective laughs.
"I'm sure its been a long trip brother, tell us about what you've been up." Amande spoke linking her arm with Katakuri's.
"Very well." He said walking with his family toward the renewed Chateau.
The Charlotte family tossed food back and forth, indulging themselves in their feast as shouting matches took place across the massive dining table.
Chest soldiers exchanged uneasy glances among one another seeing food splatter on the walls near them, potentially threatening their lives.
Katakuri sat eating modestly while examining the signed document to hand to the minister of records. Before the feast, the family discussed the new redistribution of their territory. Due to the passing of some siblings the territory needed new rulers. The Charlotte family agreed only to keep those that shared their name in charge of the islands surrounding Whole Cake Island.
It was tempting to appoint trusted Regime officers as Island rulers, however despite the loyalists the officers were; his family nor citizens would accept an outside ruler to govern them. The Charlotte Family would always remain in control of Totto Land, they were synonymous with one another— the high councilor understood this, it was just another reason he signed over to the Regime.
Katakuri signed his signature on the dotted line at the bottom of the document finalizing the family's decision. He whistled for a nearby chess guard who ducked in time, dodging a half eaten turkey as he took the document.
The leader of Totto Land nearly spit out his drink at the tart taste of it. The kitchen workers could never make beverages like Smoothie—no one could. It was a shame he only saw Pudding and Smoothie for a brief time at the Coliseum games in Dressrosa.
Sighing he continued drinking the bitter tasting wine glancing at his family who were rowdy as ever. At that moment he knew everything he'd ever done at that point in the last few months was worth it. No longer did his family walk on eggshells, they truly were themselves with no fear in their hearts—it brought a genuine smile to his features.
Awhile later as the family continued feasting a chess guard approached the leader announcing the family had guests.
"This is a private family dinner, turn them away; we'll see to their needs later." Katakuri spoke not bothering to spare the guard a glance.
"B-but sir, it is family." He said with a little trepidation.
Katakuri arched a brow as the banquet hall's doors were opened. The Charlotte Clan stopped the shameless behavior turning their attention to the newly arriving guests.
Smoothie, Pudding, Sanji stood at the doors entering the dead silent dining hall. It felt like an eternity before anyone moved a muscle.
"Sister Pudding, sister Smoothie!" The table emptied as nearly two dozen chairs slid on the floor, as the family crushed the arriving sisters in a tight embrace. Katakuri's eyes widened slight in surprise, this was certainly unexpected.
Sanji barley stepped out the way of the mob of Charlotte family members as they crowded around their siblings.
A strong presence behind him halted his actions before he could take another step.
"It's you." Katakuri spoke glaring at the significantly shorter man that stole one of his youngest sisters' heart.
Sanji turned to face the fearsome gaze of Totto Land's ruler not backing down an inch. Katakuri smirked remembering this was the high councilor's former crew mate. Any friend of his leader would be his, even if he was Pudding's husband.
"Welcome to the family." Katakuri said offering his hand to shake.
Sanji shook it firmly feeling his pulsating hand go numb from the strong grip. The chef stuck his hand in his pocket coolly hiding the pain he felt at the moment.
"Katakuri, nice to see you again." He offered.
Katakuri was never good with small talk at any point in his life. He only enjoyed speaking in the heat of battle to analyze and point out his opponents flawed tactics. However seeing the happy face Pudding wore he could tell it was genuine. Most of her life she'd been acting, up until she met the high councilor's chef.
"I hear only great things about the restaurant, it's true then your opening more locations?" Katakuri asked breaking Sanji from his musing as he turned his attention away from his wife.
He couldn't help but grin at Katakuri's question. "Oh yeah it's doing great, it's all thanks to your sister; we plan on opening three more locations in Aluburna, Alabasta— the Goa Kingdom, and the Capital city. So we figured we'd take a few days off before we get back to work." Sanji said glancing over at his wife who continued showing off her newly acquired wedding ring to her sisters.
The look didn't go unnoticed by Katakuri, "I see, it will probably be awhile before you both have free time for yourselves. Well my home is now your home, so I hope you enjoy your vacation." Katakuri spoke patting the man on the back. "Congratulations."
With that Katakuri made his way over to Pudding and Smoothie wrapping them both in a tight embrace. While the sisters gathered around Sanji welcoming him warmly to their clan.
"Brother Katakuri!" Pudding hugged her brother tightly missing him dearly.
"I'm assuming since the blobs not with you he's busy running the restaurant huh?" Katakuri asked finally breaking their hug.
"Yes he decided to stay and run things for a few days, he never wants to leave work." Pudding exclaimed happily.
"Well I'm glad you guys are here, this will always be your home." He said looking toward the pair. "Now come on, you're just in time for dinner." Katakuri gestured toward the guests signaling them to sit.
Sanji was about to take his seat next to Pudding when Katakuri approached him. "You're next to me, Sanji." He said not sparing the ex-straw hat chef a glance, heading straight for his seat.
The cook couldn't help sweat drop at the man's constant earnest demeanor, it began to unnerve him. When he grabbed Luffy after the captain escaped the Mirror World; he'd never seen Luffy that hurt before. It was a miracle Chopper was one of the best doctors around, his wounds had bled for days after and he couldn't move a muscle the first two nights. The fact a man with such power loyally followed Luffy was beyond belief.
"It's okay babe." Pudding said clutching him arm and resting her head on his shoulder. "He's harmless, I promise."
Sanji could only glance at Katakuri who had his arms crossed, patiently waiting for the chef to take the vacant seat to his immediate side.
"You're kidding right?" Sanji asked arching a brow at Pudding, who only giggled at his outwardly nervous demeanor.
"If he lays a finger on you, I'll kick his ass—trust me." She smirked kissing his cheek. "Now go."
Sanji sighed loosening his tie which began to strain his neck, heading over to the opposite end of long table.
"Sit." Katakuri commanded, to which Sanji immediately obeyed plopping in the cushioned chair.
Katakuri handed the chef a few food platters allowing him to fully fill his plate up.
"I'll admit, I had you pegged wrong. I thought you were unworthy of my sister." Katakuri spoke pausing to glance at Pudding who happily conversed with her siblings like she'd never left. "But I've never seen her genuinely smile like that before, she's truly happy."
Katakuri sighed turning his attention back to Sanji. "Don't do anything to take her smile away for any reason; she's been through too much, do you understand me?" Katakuri's eyes gleamed with something sinister behind his eyes. The cook was just happy they were on the same side now.
"I would never do some—"
"Understand?!" Katakuri said a little firmer as his gaze intensified.
Sanji could barley chew the remnants of food in his mouth from the nervousness eating away at him.
"I understand." Sanji spoke regaining his composure. The look in his eyes said it all, he would die before making his wife unhappy.
"Good, glad we can come to an understanding—brother-in-law." Katakuri smirked from under his mouth wraps at his attempt at humor.
Katakuri let the man eat in peace for awhile looking over the documents to make Brûlée and Oven official replacements as sweet generals. Signing his signature he asked Cinnamon to hand the papers to Smoothie and Cracker to finalize the transitional documents.
He glanced over Smoothie's way admiring the way she conversed with her siblings. Always having their best interests in mind, one of the least selfish members of the family. Katakuri couldn't help smile at how she'd changed in the short few months. Despite not having her around, he was determined to keep Smoothie happy even if it meant her staying in Dressrosa or another part of the world.
"Ah yes, she has missed you greatly ya know." Sanji's voice broke Katakuri from his thoughts as he turned back toward the chef.
"How do you mean?" Katakuri asked crossing his arms. He would be lying if he said the smirk on the chef's face made him a little uneasy.
The cook grinned widely seeing the earnest man's demeanor crack somewhat exposing his vulnerability. "Well for starters it wasn't our original idea to vacation here, we were actually going to go the capital; but Smoothie was insistent we visit here." Sanji spoke glancing down the table as well before continuing. "The day after you reunited at the games, she seemed...distant...I don't know what to call it, daydreaming? Also she was eager to leave work this time around, that never happens." Sanji gulped his wine nearly spitting it out from the bitter taste.
Katakuri rubbed his chin in contemplation, he really found himself in a complex situation, if only it was easy as fighting; however this was a completely different battle in itself.
"I see." Came the emperor's simple reply.
Sanji could immediately tell the emperor wasn't in the mood to talk about it—He understood all too well. All the chef could offer was his truth that he discovered nearly half a year ago.
"Look it's none of my business but... Life's too short to not pursue the one's you love, especially with the world we live in..." Sanji paused turning his attention to his shaking hands in front of him. The memories of Luffy and Nami flooded his mind; the pain the Straw Hats overcame, and the suffering of their ex-captain. Sanji felt a hand on his shoulder bringing him back to the table.
"I understand, thank you." Katakuri said offering a small smile under his wraps.
Everyone from the table began to make their way into spacious living rooms of the chateau as Katakuri and Sanji stayed enjoying their meals in comfortable silence.
To the chef's surprise, Katakuri broke the silence first. "Earlier when you said it's never too late to pursue our loved ones—were you referring to the high councilor?"
Sanji shifted in his seat pulling out his emergency stash of puffs. "Can you keep this between us?" Sanji asked lighting the cigarette.
Katakuri smirked, "Sis making you quit huh? Now I know who the boss is."
"No, I'm boss dammit!" Sanji shouted waving his arms comically in front of the emperor as he continued to smirk. "Ah you're right dammit, I'm just a humble servant." The chef admitted defeat slumping on table, rivers of tears flowing from his eyes.
Katakuri let out a small laugh causing Sanji to perk up. He couldn't help be humored by the chef's true personality; he started to see the side of the good natured man that captured his sister's heart and earned the respect of the high councilor.
"You have my word." Katakuri stated leaning back in his seat awaiting Sanji to start his explanation.
The cook took a long drag before exhaling through his nostrils, his puffs truly numbed the pain of reminiscing. He recounted the story from when they defeated the former Yonko Blackbeard up until the Mariejois incident; informing Katakuri of the events that led the straw hat captain to become the high councilor.
Katakuri nodded hearing the horrific event, as he gave Sanji a beverage stronger than wine to relieve his brief anguish. "It makes sense to me now. He never truly told anyone, I finally get it now. Someone can never know true pain or a true loss until they know true love. Now I know why he lost that fight..." Katakuri spoke placing his hands in front of his face remembering Luffy's battle with Arlong.
Sanji let out a cloud of smoke glancing toward the emperor that sat in contemplation. "Luffy lost a fight recently? Who the hell could've pulled that off?" He asked still in disbelief. Of all the people that ran through his mind, he could count on one hand enemies that had even a slight chance of taking down his former captain.
"A fishman named Arlong..." Katakuri spoke pulling out his own cigar. He didn't miss Sanji's uncomfortable reaction as the mention of the deceased fishman's name. "I assumed they had history based on their interactions, though I don't have a clue of the extent of it."
"Y-yeah they had history," Sanji said pulling out another cigarette while lighting Katakuri's cigar, "He was our navigator's captor for years before we officially started our journey down the Grand Line... So how did it happen?" He asked trying to change the subject.
"Arlong used underhanded tactics, using Luffy's pain against him. There is no protection from emotional pain resting in your heart. I truly didn't thought he died, however it was unnerving how he lost his strength, It gave me relief when he returned to finish that damned fishman off." Katakuri said inhaling and exhaling his cigar sending pristine smoke in the air.
"How did he kill that bastard?" Sanji inquired turning to face the emperor.
"He ripped his head clean off from his shoulders." Katakuri said plainly as if that was a normal occurrence.
A cold shiver ran through Sanji's body imagining the Luffy he knew showing that kind of brutality. Despite all the ways the bastard deserved to die, that was one horrific way to go.
"Good riddance." The chef spat happy Arlong was dealt poetic justice for exploiting and terrorizing Nami and Cocoyasi village for years. Luffy truly erased the bastard's history and he hoped his friend gained some peace from the fishman's demise.
"I admire your former captain. At his age with the extreme losses he's suffered, I wouldn't wish that on my greatest enemy. However know this, he is the world's best hope for a better future." Katakuri said taking a long drag from his cigar.
Sanji could only chuckle. "It doesn't surprise me you feel that way, I stopped doubting his capabilities along time ago. Despite having a bottomless pit as a stomach, he's one of the strongest willed person I've ever met." The Cook stated.
"The high councilor does have a bottom-less pit for a stomach." Katakuri joined the cook laughing about how the rubber man could gorge himself into a balloon, cleaning out numerous kitchen; if there was one thing that'd never change, it was that.
Pudding and Smoothie entered the room as the two men conversed away about their respective duties.
"Come on Sanji, the family wants to see you in the parlor rooms." Pudding said tugging him arm gently.
"Alright Pudding, it was great talking with you brother-in-law." Sanji smirked earning one back from the emperor.
"Same too you, good talk."
Pudding waved to the pair as the door shut behind them.
"What were you two talking about?" Smoothie asked taking a seat next to Katakuri.
He glanced at her before placing his feet on the table, "Regime stuff."
"Uh-huh." She crossed her arms not buying it, shoving his feet off the table causing him to look at her with an irritated expression.
"Lighten up, how about we race like we used to—unless you've gotten complacent." Smoothie challenged resting her face on a fist awaiting his reaction.
Katakuri slammed his hand on the table glaring directly at her. "I seem to recall you beating me only once, today won't be the second time."
"Well we'll see won't we."
Before he could respond Smoothie was already headed out the double doors leading to the back of the Chateau.
The two half siblings arched a brow at each other before staring at the endless height of the fort. Night began to approach as clouds passed over the moon illuminating the starless night sky.
"No haki." Smoothie deadpanned getting in an athletic running stance.
"No swords." Katakuri stated standing with arms crossed.
In unison the pair were up the castle off and running faster than the normal eye could keep up with.
Smoothie's strides widened as the they neared the half way point, she could tell Katakuri was a half step behind. Without a second thought Smoothie grabbed her broadsword clashing with Katakuri's trident Mogura.
Smoothie smirked as they didn't halt their striding for one second, "you cheated, I knew you'd use it."
"Technically you did too." He responded as they clashed weapons again, not bothering to stop their ascension.
The pair grew competitive trying to knock off the momentum of their opponent as they neared the peak.
Katakuri and Smoothie reached their hands out toward the roof of the chateau. They both collapsed on the roof breathing hard from the exertion of energy.
"I won." Smoothie managed to say while trying to catch her wind.
"No, you cheated." Katakuri spoke turning to face her.
She sat up in a huff as he arched a brow at her reaction.
"Call it a tie?" He asked with a smirk.
"Fair enough." She said smiling falling onto her back.
The two laid in silence observing the moon as it rose higher into the darkened sky.
"Did you forget?" She asked turning to face Katakuri who stared up at the moon.
"No." He deadpanned pulling out a container filled with doughnuts out of his jacket.
"Good, I didn't forget either." Smoothie pulled out a thermos filled with a sweet alcoholic beverage.
The two exchanged sweets as a somewhat tradition for Smoothie's training to become a sweet general. When she first confided in him to train her, he scoffed at the idea. Being a sweet general under Big Mom was not child's play; at her command, a general needed to be ready to mercilessly slaughter a person, towns, entire nations. It was something he did not wish upon his sister siblings. However Smoothie refused to give up, relentlessly pursuing him until he reluctantly agreed.
Katakuri did not go easy on her training in the early phases. He emphasized that her opponents in battle would show no mercy; that it was imperative to close your emotions off from your enemy—that you must not feel for them, to do what was required. On some days the man felt he was too harsh of a teacher, seeing that she wanted to give up.
It all changed when he asked her what she really wanted to be a sweet general for. The answer surprised him; it wasn't for power or respect. It was simply to get stronger, to protect her family with selfless leadership, always keeping the siblings at the forefront of her mind.
Katakuri respected her reasoning, it was the same reason he did it. It wasn't to please some mother that would never love anything beyond her deceased Mama Caramel or her beloved sweets. It was to protect what mattered most in the world.
From that day on, Katakuri gave her a mix up of tough and light training, always making sure her goal stayed true. As the years passed and she began to catch up to his abilities, the two raced to the top of the fortress sometimes after being berated by their mother.
It became an escape and a comfort between the two. The others had an idea but never truly knew or cared. Whatever the two needed to do to protect the family was between them.
"I do love these doughnuts, I can't see how you eat these all the time though." Smoothie said slowly biting into the sprinkled deserts.
"I'm a creature of habit." Katakuri spoke showing his rare flash of humor. "Thanks for the drink, you truly are the best." He said downing the watermelon flavored alcohol.
"Hate to brag but I am world famous now." Smoothie said smirking towards Katakuri as a vein appeared on his head.
"I take back what I said." He said earnestly continuing to drink.
She elbowed him playfully, "Lighten up, I'm messing with you." The pair looked up towards the night sky as they unknowingly inched toward one another.
"I like seeing your real face." Smoothie offered pulling his face mask down to lightly touch the sides of his stitched mouth.
"Many people don't share your opinion." Katakuri said folding his arms. "But I like seeing yours too." He lightly grazed the bangs covering her right eye.
Smoothie couldn't help shy away letting another person see the scar gracing her temple to upper cheek. It happened early on during a battle defending one of her own. If the ex-sweet general had to do it over again she would make the same choice; however it didn't help the shame it brought hearing the judgements from other people. It was easiest for everybody to keep it hidden away.
Katakuri brushes her hair back placing it behind her ear, while Smoothie pulled down his mask fully exposing his stitched mouth. They were both monsters to the outside world yet scared individuals and beautiful in each other's eyes.
Smoothie kept one hand on his face, holding his hand on her scared cheek with the other. Katakuri's eyes searched hers as if looking for something; his eyes widened slightly as she closed her eyes with a soft humming sound escaping escaping her lips.
As she neared, Katakuri began to shut his eyes seeing her approach his lips with hers.
An approaching loud screeching sound caused their eyes to open, as they turned their attention to the incoming bird.
"Hattari, where've you been? I haven't seen you all day." Katakuri stated receiving the bird on his index finger.
Smoothie examined the bird closely seeing its heavy breathes as it rested on its master. "He looks tired, have you had him running errands all day?"
"No, just a few islands, he should've been back hours ago." Katakuri said noticing the bird had a small black transponder snail on its leg.
"What is it?" Smoothie asked squinting at the miniature snail in his hand.
Katakuri furrowed his brows in slight confusion. "A Regime transponder snail." One of the Regime ships must've tracked Hattori as he began finishing his island routes, intercepting the bird. It was the fastest and most secure way of reaching him; this wasn't by any measures ordinary circumstances.
"It's alright, rest up my friend." Katakuri spoke placing a jellybean in his mouth before he hopped onto his master's shoulder.
Katakuri clicked the small snail as it rang loudly. After a few seconds a familiar councilman's voice rang out.
"Emperor Katakuri? You there?" Raleigh's voice echoed through the snail.
"I'm here, go ahead." He said a little irritated.
"Sorry if I caught you at a bad time, I'm not interrupting something am I?" Raleigh asked knowing the tone all too well.
Katakuri glanced at Smoothie who could only offer a smile and a shrug.
"As you know I'm on vacation." Katakuri spoke into the snail.
"Oh! Well I didn't mean to intrude but your being summoned back to the capital."
"Already? Something happened..." Katakuri could sense something was wrong based on the geezer's tone.
"I'm afraid I can't give you a reason over the line, just get here—Raleigh out." The snail said urgently before shutting off. Katakuri tucked the snail into his vest pocket before turning to face Smoothie.
"I have to go..." he stood offering her a hand to which she took.
"What's going on?" She asked searching his features, hoping he would give her some type of answer no matter how minuscule.
"Raleigh didn't say, it must be urgent—Im being summoned immediately." Katakuri turned his gaze to the roof not wanting to see her disappointment.
"I understand." Smoothie spoke placing a hand on his cheek, pulling his mask up. "Duty calls." She pulled her bang over her right eye with a soft sigh escaping her lips.
Katakuri gave a smirk under his wraps before turning his back to her. "Ready to go down?"
She was hesitant before hopping onto his back. Hattori hopped onto her digging his small claws into her shoulder as Katakuri stepped on the ledge of the fortress roof.
Smoothie wrapped her arms tighter around his neck as he hung onto her long legs, summoning his adhesive-like powers underneath his feet.
"Ready?" He asked glancing back at the pair as they furiously shook their heads.
"Katakuri wait I forgot how much I hate heig—"
Smoothie screamed and Hattori squawked wildly as Katakuri descended the chateau at an incredible speed, riding a wave of mochi. She held on tighter shutting her eyes as they flew toward the ground; hearing Katakuri laugh lowly, her cheeks turned a slight tint hearing him be his unfiltered self around her—even at a time like this.
The pair entered the massive parlor room to find most of their siblings were passed out or gone off to bed. A few were spread about enjoying their own activities.
Pudding sat curled next her husband as Cracker snored loudly next to them with Brûlée resting her feet on his shoulders.
At the sound of the doors opening Cracker woke up immediately noticing the feet on him. "Dammit Brûlée get your filthy feet off me!" He snapped pushing her feet down. The witch continued snoring not bothering to wake up.
"There you two are! I was wondering where you guys ran off to; so who won the race?" Cracker asked folding his arms, a slight smirk accompanying his face.
"I did of course." Smoothie said coolly giving Katakuri a wink before heading to sit next to Pudding.
"Damn you really did lose! It's written all over your face." Cracker said standing to face his brother.
The vein disappeared from Katakuri's forehead after being fooled. "I need you to stay in charge again, I'm leaving for the capital—immediately."
"W-what?! You just got back?" Cracker threw his hands over his head in disbelief.
"Calm yourself, it will only be a few days." Katakuri said receiving a tight hug from Pudding.
"This will always be your home, next time I'll come see you; give your restaurant a try." He said placing a gentle hand on her head.
"Nothing would make me happier." Katakuri reluctantly released his sister before turning on his heel with Hattori resting on his shoulder, giving one last glance toward Smoothie who couldn't help but return it.
Just as he exited the fortress he felt a familiar presence chase him down.
"Sanji, what can I do for you?" Katakuri questioned keeping his gaze on the waiting royal carriage.
"You're going to see Luffy right?" Sanji asked causing the emperor to turn his attention to him
"Yes."
"Tell him to come see us in Dressrosa soon, tell him we all miss him." Sanji pleaded glaring into the emperor's eyes.
"Very well, I'll let him know—you have my word. Just remember to keep your promise." Katakuri smirked before heading off to the carriage.
"Of course." The cook said to himself before lighting a cigarette. The straw hats already missed their former leader, desperately wishing to see him again.
Not more than a half an hour later Katakuri was on a Regime heading toward the capital wondering exactly what situation had occurred during his brief time away or if the other emperors experienced similar situations.
—
Borsalino as his close friends called him, better known to the world as "Kizaru" or the "yellow monkey;" Emerged from his king sized bed in his pajamas leaving two beauties peacefully sleeping behind him. Stretching fully he placed the teddy bear that was tucked under his arm in between the women, giving a small smirk at his antics.
The former admiral yawned loudly putting on his favorite record player, smiling widely as the classical music filled his ears. He finally opened the curtains to see the sun already high in the sky, it looked mid-afternoon.
Borsalino entered his adjacent closet filled with endless amount of priceless suits. Matching pants and pristine shoes hung just below the jackets and ties. The emperor hummed along with the tune of music pulling out a green jacket along with the matching pants and a white tie.
He pulled out a cloth after picking a pair of glasses from the abundant collection in the drawer. Borsalino cleaned his glasses before heading towards the door.
"Oh, almost forgot." The emperor laughed to himself picking out spotless white shoes. "My babies." He purred before slipping them on.
"Where the hell is he? It's been thirty minutes for crying out loud!" Buggy growled.
"He'll be here, trust me; this is just how the emperor is." Kuzan spoke leaning back in his chair with hands resting above his head.
The disbanded New Pirate Alliance of: Kuzan, Donquixote Doflamingo, Dracule Mihawk, Gekko Moria, Buggy the Clown, and Crocodile; all sat around the war room trying to ease their boredom.
Doflamingo frowned glancing at Mihawk who stayed to himself with his arms crossed. "What an anti-social one this guy is." He gestured toward the swordsman.
"Or maybe he doesn't want to talk to a madman like you." Crocodile spat smoking on his cheapened cigars.
"Am I supposed to be offended by that sandman?" Doflamingo questioned smirking at the angered expression of the former Baroque Works president.
"Watch yourself, you worthless—"
"Alright, Alright let's calm it down." Kuzan said as the tension in the room had risen.
Crocodile had a habit of going overboard when insulted, he didn't want the war room to become an all out brawl because of a few words.
The group that sat in the emperor's war room were very prideful in their own right. Each at one point held the title of Shichibukai at one point in their careers—with the exception of Kuzan. It was a driving point why they banded together to oppose the high councilor and Regime, in direct response to Regime Registration Act.
The double doors to the room opened slowly as the sharply dressed emperor took the seat at the head of the table adjusting his tie.
"Sorry for my late arrival, I did have the most splendid night." Borsalino said offering a grin causing the group to sweat drop.
"Well it's about damn time!" Buggy shouted folding his arms, muttering about the better things he could be doing.
"Again my apologizes for my late arrival, though this won't take too much of your time." Borsalino spoke adjusting his costly frames.
"Right, you want us to be leaders of our own providences." Kuzan said earning a nod from the emperor.
Borsalino places his hands over his face before continuing, "your assertion is correct. As you know I'll be here, at the Regime G-1 headquarters formerly known as New Marineford. My distributed territory is expansive covering multiple countries, it's my job—our job to run it."
"Why us? We've all done sinister things in our past; horrendous things if I'm speaking honestly." Mihawk said glaring st the emperor.
"To put it simply I asked myself the same thing. However the high councilor saw your stance that day when you signed over to us— you turned on Sakazuki, the former fleet admiral. Akainu 'the red dog' was the worst of us all and I'm sure you all know; he made the high councilor into who he is now." Borsalino said lighting a freshly delivered cigar.
The men in the room glanced at one another knowing the former Navy admiral had a point. They could've accepted Akainu's offer which would've been the point of no return for them, however even they admitted their morales were no where near his.
Kuzan wasn't sure at first of signing his newly acquired alliance over to the Regime. Despite the high councilor's motivations and reasoning behind his actions; what was to keep him from coming after them if they got out of line. However the ice man knew it would always be a life on the run without registering. Now he supposed whenever a dangerous mission came up that the council deemed beneath them or suicidal his team would be gathered to handle it. Kuzan examined the table of former warlords smirking to himself, in terms of power in the world he considered them second to none, with the exception of the Regime council itself.
"As long as I get to hand-pick subordinates to handle the heavy lifting, I'll manage." The former Dressrosa conquerer grinned widely crossing his leg at the prospect of once again being in power.
Doflamingo remained the exception, however after being bested twice by the high councilor and the eradication of the world government with the Celestial; the former supposed he could change for the Regime. Even if Doflamingo wanted to, the high councilor was untouchable as the leader of the free world. On top of that he couldn't deny the former straw hat captain had changed the complexioned the world. No longer did people live in fear of the future, the people reflected hope—something he still wasn't used to seeing. If he was being completely honest, these past few months since signing over, he'd been living his best life.
"So how does this work? You just hand us an armada and we pick our territory." Gekko Moria stated staring at the papers that appeared in front of him as Borsalino tossed them out.
"Precisely, distribute among yourselves which territories you desire. However just know if your intentions intersect the Regime's the high councilor guarantees to pay you a visit, and sadly I won't be able to do anything about it. Other than that enjoy your new accommodations because I know I have." Borsalino exclaimed straightening his tie once again before placing his shoes on the table.
"Okay, if I can get shoes like that—I'm all in." Buggy smirked signing his signature and highlighting his desired territory.
Borsalino couldn't help grin seeing the men dispute over territory. Despite their bad track records doing bad things; Borsalino knew him and the high councilor weren't exempt from that list. He was a big believer people were better than the worst thing they'd ever done. Plus the high councilor believed in leverage, getting former criminals to do good for the world—albeit on a short leash for near future.
The emperor took his time signing his signature, authenticating each of the documents. "These will be taken to the capital to be processed, within the week you'll have your new accommodations. Well that's it, business is concluded." Borsalino said excitedly clapping his hands together as he got up from his seat.
"Enjoy your stay here, if you'll need me I'll be on the course." With that he swiftly left the room heading toward the back of the militarized fortress.
The emperor examined the bag of clubs brought to him, ultimately settling for a seven iron.
Clearing his head Borsalino played his favorite past time with the intention of not being interrupted; his only company being the caddy and ball boy who kept track of his shots.
Halfway through the course Kuzan approached the emperor who was busy teeing up his shot.
"I think I speak for all of us when I say your making the right decision." The ice master spoke disrupting Borsalino's groove.
"Hmm... it's rude to interrupt a man when he's about to swing." Kizaru said as sweat dripped from his furrowed brow.
"My mistake, we're all leaving now. We just wanted to let you know you can trust us; if there comes a time you need our services, you know where to find us—"
Borsalino swung his club as Kuzan finished his statement.
The ball boy screamed madly waving his hands furiously. "Hole in one sir!"
"Ohh my first hole in one!" Borsalino pranced around with a shade of red on his cheeks.
Kuzan could only sigh smacking himself in the forehead. "You'll need a few more of those to qualify for the majors emperor." He said starting to walk back toward the fortress. "See ya around, old friend."
Borsalino didn't bother listening to the rest as he happily disappeared in a ray of light toward the golf hole.
Night soon came as he laughed with the caddy and ball boy as they rode the electric cart up to the fortress.
"Today was your best day sir!" The ball boy exclaimed happily kicking his feet as the cart came to a stop.
"I have to agree, that was an impressive day—the major qualifier tournament will be shaking in their shoes when you enter next year." The caddy spoke as the vehicle came to a halt.
Kizaru chuckled at the praise. "Glad to hear it, we have a lot of work to do still—see you bright and early gentlemen." Borsalino waved not bothering to spare a glance, heading toward his chambers.
The women from earlier were long gone, leaving a note on his teddy. 'Fun night, have to do it again sometime.' He was hoping to invite both of them to have dinner with him tonight.
With a disappointed sigh he changed into a different attire once again bringing a smile to his features.
Eating dinner was a bit lonely for his liking. His providence commanders left earlier and the council were all up to their own business across the world. Even someone of his status grew weary from constant loneliness sometimes—he began to see the councilmen as his family, since he had none to speak of left.
As he dug into his appetizing plate of delectable food, an officer barged in holding a transponder snail.
"Hmm?" Borsalino inquired arching a brow at the officer.
"From the capital sir! It's urgent." He said bowing before heading out the door.
"Borsalino, you there?"
"Yes go ahead Raleigh."
Borsalino leaned back in his chair placing the snail on his leg to hear better.
"The high councilor requests your presence. We can't say over the line any details—just get here by morning." The snail spoke in the voice of the dark king.
"Will do councilman, I'm on my way." Borsalino exclaimed jovially. He was about to reunite with the council; whatever was planned didn't matter, there would finally be a fight, he could feel it.
The emperor barked orders to his soldiers to prepare his vessel—Borsalino was returning to the capital.
—
The Alabasta desert heat simmered through the capital city Alubarna. Massive crowds of people walked through central city square going about their daily business.
On the tall flag pole below Alabasta's flag hung a Regime flag, showing the mutual alliance and the large influence the federal government had on the large country.
In the palace dining hall, Marco and Vivi sat at the head of the table filled with former Whitebeard subordinates. Among them: Diamond Jozu, Flower Sword Vista, Blamenco, Rakuyo, Namur, Blenheim, Curiel, Kingdew, Haruta, Water Buffalo Atmos, Speed Jiru, Fossa and Izo; all sat grubbing their lives away happily after being reunited.
Vivi jovially organized the documents legitimizing the former Whitebeard Pirates as providence commanders within the Regime. Their new duties would be to govern over an assigned land, with their authority only being superseded by the respective countries authority or in extreme cases, the federal government itself.
However Vivi could see that Macro trusted these men like they were his very own blood—they were good people. She had no qualms about accepting the former pirates to collaborate with her countries's government.
Marco and Jozu the former Whitebeard third squad commander, wrapped an arm around one another chugging from their mugs filled to the brim with alcohol.
Vivi could only roll her eyes at the childishness shown from the emperor. Even though he held a high position of power, he never lost himself to it; always keeping those important closest to him, albeit with a smile. Although it couldn't help remind her of Luffy, her once dear friend.
Despite achieving the highest authority in the establish world; she could feel his exuding pain. It was something she never felt from anyone before; the sadness, the sorrow, the regret that befell his eyes. It differed greatly from the look he held when she'd first encountered the straw hats. The constant happiness and exuberance that bolstered from the man amazed her to no end. She supposed he he had a right to feel that way after what he'd lost—yet she couldn't help worry if his pain wound ever end.
Vivi was pulled from her thoughts as the former pirates began to say their goodbyes heading out the door.
"See ya around buddy! Lady Vivi." Jozu said smirking following his former crew out the door leaving the pair alone.
"Well...they sure are, lively." Vivi offered with a warm smile.
"Yeah they're a handful, but they're my family—plus they're nothing compared to the councilmen." Marco said wrapping an arm around the queen of Alabasta.
Vivi held his hand with hers interlocking their fingers. "Yes you guys are a rowdy bunch, by the way is Luffy doing alright?"
Marco smiled slightly, "The high councilor? Yeah he's doing better rest assured." The flaming phoenix knew she'd traveled with the straw hats early in their adventure through paradise.
"I'm glad, after his terrible loss, I didn't know if... he would come back, though he still isn't the same person I knew back then." Vivi said staring off at the distant clock, watching time hands tick away.
"I see what you mean," Marco said gaining her attention, "I only met him briefly in Marineford and Wano, there wasn't much time for discussion during that time. However his demeanor changed dramatically from that time." Marco paused contemplating what to say next, he would never lie to Vivi. "Ever since his...loss, he's become vicious, almost losing himself to the hate he built up for his enemies; he's attempted to tone it down lately but I fear that anger will never dissipate, you simply don't get over a loss like that."
The blue haired queen couldn't have agreed more. The way he carried himself that day he arrived in the Alabastan desert after killing King Neptune. The uncaring disconnect that poured from his soul. She could feel his physical presence in the moment but his once unbreakable spirit remained shattered and distant. Even after sparing the remaining pirates when they attacked the capital, she could sense the same desolation despite uniting the world.
"I miss them both, I don't think I've ever cried like that at her funeral." Vivi confessed to the surprise of Marco who in response pulled her closer.
"I'm sorry and I wish I could tell you the pain goes away, but it doesn't. As a first squad commander, I thought it was shameful to cry; until I lost Ace the first time and my pops, Whitebeard. Later Blackbeard separated our crew, defeating us in a one-sided fight. I gave up all hope after the Kaido retreat, falling into a depression. It wasn't until the high councilor avenged Blackbeard, destroyed the oppressive world government, made me an emperor, and reunited me with my former crew—he gave me hope when I laid in a pit of despair." Marco said while Vivi glared intently, listening to him finish speaking.
Vivi threw hers arms around Marco as he caught her effortlessly. "We both suffered, but without it, we may have never found this; and it's all thanks to Luffy."
Marco understood exactly what she meant. If the events never transpired like this, they could've been worse off, still lost in their own despairs. However it dealt both of them heavy hearts thinking of Luffy—The man who gained the world in the palm of his hand but had no desire for it. Although in his reality he had been the one to lose the most and gain nothing.
"I promise I'll protect your friend even if it means my life." Marco declared offering her a smile, she did not return it.
She pulled back to glare at him. "I appreciate it, I really do but don't do anything reckless to put your own life in danger."
"That's the life of pirate love, to give out your life on the line for comrades." Marco said evenly causing her to sigh audibly.
"Just come back to me okay?" Vivi questioned rhetorically pulling Marco in for a warm embrace to which he happily returned.
"Of course, an emperor can't disappoint his queen can he?" He asked grinning widely.
"No, he most certainly may not." Vivi answered with a mock royal tone. The pair broke out into laughter holding onto one another.
Awhile later Marco patiently waited in the lobby of the palace awaiting Vivi's arrival as she prepared for their trip to the Oasis.
Jozu spotted Marco sitting with his eyes closed passing the time. Tapping him on the shoulder the former squad commander could only grin at Marco's amused expression.
"I thought you guys departed already? Miss me that much?" Marco asked leaning back against the velvet couch.
"Ha! You wish Phoenix boy. We just finished loading up. I just wanted to let you know I appreciate what you and the Regime did for all of us, to be reunited means everything." Jozu said tears nearly coming to his eyes.
Marco's eyes widened in surprise seeing the always stoic man's eyes glisten. "H-hey Jozu, you alri—"
The diamond giant held his hand up halting the emperor's words of concern. "I'm fine, it's just... I never thought I'd see the day; Pops would be proud to see the man you've become, a proud yonko of the world." Jozu said showing a toothy grin.
"Thanks Jozu, that means a lot." Marco offered a grin of his own.
"Anyway I just wanted to let you know, and I speak for everyone of us when I say this—whenever you and the high councilor need us for any reason, we'll be there." Jozu offered his hand for Marco to shake to which the phoenix took eagerly.
"I know I can always count on you guys." Marco spoke with a slight smile glancing toward the ground, thinking back to the early days of their Whitebeard ventures.
"Of course family forever." Jozu said, repeating Pop's mantra.
"Family forever."
With a final wave Jozu was off toward the royal carriages to be shipped off to his respective providence command lost along with his former crew mates.
Marco turned his head nearly letting his jaw drop seeing an elegant pink dress hugging Vivi's body snuggly.
"Y-you look great." He said after a few moments of gaping.
"Thanks." Vivi smiled with a light blush. "You ready? Come on Carue."
The trio were scooped up Marco's flaming phoenix as they sped toward the oasis sitting at the edge of the palace.
They landed in a semi-secluded area as families, couples of all ages, and bystanders just enjoying the serenity stayed sprinkled about. The trees had grown large covering the surrounding area in a shade from the sun as the large body of water sat in the center of the oasis cooly.
The couple laid on Carue, feeding one another fruits Vivi had picked from palace gardens. They laughed and held one another well into the day; the trio fell asleep as the sky darkened over the Alabastan desert.
Marco awoke after a cold breeze blew through the oasis. The people who resided here had mostly cleared out, seeking warmth in the comfort of their homes.
He noticed Carue and Vivi fast asleep. The queen snored softly, almost inaudibly as her breathing remained even. In that moment, Marco couldn't have been happier, he knew what he was fighting for now. It had been murky when he first joined the Regime as an emperor. The high councilor's early decisions were questionable at best, it made him question himself. Now he had a reason to come back—she was his reason.
Carue yelled loudly yapping with its large bill. "What is it boy?" Marco asked petting the land duck's feathers calming him.
"Sir! Emperor Marco?" A lone soldier called.
At the approaching footsteps, Vivi woke up rubbing her eyes tiredly glancing at the soldier who handed Marco a transponder snail before disappearing into the night.
"Emperor Marco." Raleigh called out.
"I'm here, what's up geezer?" Marco asked holding the snail closer to his face.
The snail let out an audible sigh, "we need you here at the capital pronto—"
"Uh, no can do. I just started my holiday." Marco countered desperate to not return.
"I understand that but, the high councilor orders it—all of you are being summoned." Raleigh spoke earnestly.
"Damn, so its really important and I'm guessing you can't tell me over the line."
"Right you are, so get your ass on a vessel, I expect you here by morning with everyone else—Raleigh out." The snail clicked shutting off.
Marco sighed standing up as Vivi did the same, she clutched his arm.
"You're leaving aren't you?" She asked with a knowing look accompanying her gaze.
Marco couldn't return the queen's look, ashamed he disappointed her.
"Hey," she said softly placing a hand on his face causing him to meet her gaze, "come back to me okay?"
"Of course, an emperor won't disappoint his queen."
The pair shared a passionate intense kiss as she wrapped her arms around his neck deepening it. Marco threw his hands to her waist as they held each other closely.
They wouldn't have stopped if not for Carue who wedged between the pair's leg, nudging Marco away with his bill.
"Alright, alright I'm going Carue." Marco deadpanned at the land duck causing Vivi to break out in giggles. With one final glance the couple shared a smile before Marco became surrounded in phoenix flames, disappearing high into the sky.
Carue couldn't help quack loudly after his friend chasing him for a couple meters until the flames disappeared. The duck truly didn't want the emperor to leave them, it sank onto the grass in a downcast mood.
Vivi watched the remarkable flames until they disappeared as well before placing a hand on her friend's head, petting him softly. "It's okay Carue, I'll miss him too; he'll come back to us, I know it." She said staring up at the starry sky.
"Now let's get some food huh?" Vivi asked as the duck's mood brightened slight at the mention of well crafted snacks.
The pair left the oasis heading back toward the royal palace missing their dear friend, hoping he would return soon.
—
Sabo started his late afternoon day after sleeping in with his girlfriend. Now beginning to leisurely strolling with the toast of the town befit to be a queen in her own right. The new power couple of Dressrosa waved to citizens when they greeted the pair. Carina and Sabo just wanted a simple afternoon shopping; shopping, dining out, sight seeing. However the citizens saw them as celebrities for all the charitable work and security the pair provided their community.
Carina had come into his life not long ago after visiting and investing in Gran Carina, the entertainment capitol of the world.
Over the few months after the battle against the New Pirate Alliance, the two began to grow close. Luffy had sent Sabo to be the council's official representative to send monthly shipments of Regime assets to the entertainment country.
It started with dinner, a great night out, and a passionate encounter to speak their spontaneous relationship. Both were deeply wounded by the losses suffered over the last half year.
Carina missed her friend and rival, never truly accepting the woman was gone. Despite reuniting with Luffy, his presence only reinforced the idea her friend was never coming back. His grim demeanor remained a constant reminder of the tragic loss, it wasn't easy being around him. Being around Sabo has been different; with him she felt as if the world held joy again. The confident and jovial way he carried himself attracted the woman immediately to the emperor.
Sabo has never met a girl like Carina. She was Koala's polar opposite, night and day. While Koala would get on his case and hound him to constantly for his benefit. Carina remained relaxed most of the time, hardly shouting at him. It defiantly was something he got used to. Although he couldn't help miss the way Koala stretches his cheeks or the passionate nights they shared holding each other.
During the past few months Sabo decided to chuck it up as a childish romance; he would never forget his first. But Carina had proven to be something else. While Koala could sometimes be more softly spoken in certain aspects, Carina had no filter. The woman was a ruler of her own country barley being governed by the Regime, demanded to be made a minority partner within the council as a financial advisor, and always commanded respect. Sabo assumed it was only a natural step after ascending to the rank of emperor in the world, Carina in every sense of the word was an upgrade.
"Let's get out of this crowd huh? Go relax somewhere quiet." Carina said smirking toward the emperor.
"We certainly won't get any peace there." He exclaimed pointing to a three storied restaurant down the road. The World Famous Sanji and Pudding's sign's lights began lighting up as the sunset began to fall onto the horizon. Crowds gathered there day and night, awaiting to try the restaurant for themselves. The line as usual backed farther than the eye could see.
"You're right, I know where we should go." Carina spoke pulling his arm tighter to her, marching toward the outskirts of the Main Street in Acadia.
The couple strolled to the northwest side of the island, arriving in Primula—better known as 'Lover's Alley' as the sky darkened. It was hard to believe time passed like this for the both of them.
Despite Carina being independent with a high salary and expensive taste. He didn't mind paying for her expensive desired gifts nor carrying the bags; however he insisted she pay his high-priced food bills three times a day.
The couple eventually stopped at a lone Cafe settling on an outside table.
"The usual babe?" Carina grinned as Sabo settled her shopping bags at his feet.
"The usual." He answered as she entered the cafe only to return a few minutes later with two drinks in hand.
The pair had come here to get some private time. Lover's Alley was a place that considered it taboo to intrude in other couple's business. Here they weren't a power couple, just another loving one like everyone else in the area.
"Hey Sabo, mind if I ask you a question?"
Sabo perked up smirking at her question. "Yeah, of course."
"I know you don't like to talk about it, but it's about Luffy." Carina stated glaring into his eyes.
Sabo sighed softly scooping his frozen lemonade out of the cup. "What about him?" His mood slight dampened remembering his brother. It wasn't that he didn't want to discuss his brother. Sabo loathed explaining to people his brother's predicament, and feelings—he wanted people to leave him be.
"I know it's sensitive for you." Carina said, quickly grasping his hand after noticing his mood drop. "It's just, I understand what he's lost...I do, but doesn't his ruthlessness get too you sometimes. The way he slaughtered the celestials and former marine personnel the day of the negotiations. I didn't want to believe it the rumors but, it just worries me—doesn't it worry you?" Carina asked glancing down at her own frozen lemonade, before taking a slow scoop placing it in her mouth.
Sabo looked somewhat hesitant before answering, his hat covered his expression. "I know what you mean, his brutal nature is extreme at times but it's necessary in the type of world we live in. The first time I saw him emerge in that dragon form, there was an instant I feared what he'd become. But then I saw the look in eyes with a fallen navigator by his side; he entrusted me to look after her before disappearing. In that moment, I never doubted my brother for an instant, no matter what he'd done and is doing." Sabo exclaimed matching her curious glare.
"The last time we spoke he said that he could never be healed—I asked him how he coped with his sorrow, and he answered his garden; his gaze Sabo, it's constantly sad. I know how much he means to you, I can't help but worry." Carina said squeezing Sabo's hand tighter, her eyes intently gazing into his.
Sabo squeezed her hand briefly to reassure his girlfriend. "You have to understand, my brother didn't have the slightest clue as to what love meant. The closest he'd ever come to it was our sibling love which he spread to his comrades." The emperor paused his words briefly as his eyebrows knitted together in concentration, remembering the events he'd seen. "However, with her it was...different, from anything I'd ever seen. It wasn't something that happened on a whim; it was a bond developed over years of unyielding trust, devoted faith in one another, and mutual admiration—on top of that they were comrades. Losing someone you love like that will drive any man over the edge, even someone with a good heart like my brother." Sabo spoke setting his cup down, just remembering the happiness his brother exuded the day after Blackbeard's defeat damped his mood once again.
Carina's mood damped as she released her boyfriend's hand, resting it on her cup. "Y'know she was the same way. She always claimed to only love treasure and money, it was all just a facade. The real her secretly hoped for some hero to appear into her life, taking her to experience adventures in the sea while she navigated the ship." Carina chuckled remembering teasing the orangette about her fantasies. "Every time I mentioned love she would scoff claiming to never want something as idiotic as that. I guess she never truly knew it either, until she met him." Carina said beginning to slowly start to dig into her frozen lemonade as it began to melt.
Sabo reaches across the table grasping her trembling hand. They couldn't hold their feelings about their loved ones in forever, it was great to be opening up about it together. The couple shared a sweet smile before talking about more conventional topics of discussion.
Carina gossiped on about her work and the other women she worked with. Sabo couldn't help but laugh every once in awhile when she roasted one of her jealous co-workers. Also she explained the budgets for opening casino locations around the globe. It wouldn't be cheap to open them, but the return on their investment would be to great not to run the table.
Sabo exclaimed a few details about the planned changes in Dressrosa following the new year. The underground ports were going to be reopened and reconstructed to reform the import/export trade. The illegal Black Market would be transformed into the Gold Market. A place where people could buy, sell, or exchange valuable merchandise; wether it be ships, loot, business shares, everything was fair game. It truly would be the epicenter of the trade port world.
The pair were interrupted by the clerk setting the inexpensive bill on the table.
"I got this." Carina smirked following the worker into the small shop.
Sabo couldn't help smile widely to himself thinking of how much he'd fallen for the purple haired woman, a woman he only thought he'd get in his dreams.
As he leaned down to pick up Carina's shopping bags, his hat was abruptly knocked off his head as he bumped into someone's stomach.
"My apologizes." Sabo smiled as the person picked up his hat dusting it off.
"Sabo?" Koala questioned as her eyes lit up seeing the surprised look on his face.
"Koala!" He shouted wrapping his arms around her suddenly.
"Sabo!" The petite woman hugged him tightly missing her ex-comrade.
"Oh, here." She said placing his top hat back on his head like she had so many times previously.
"It's great to see you." Sabo showed his toothy grin sheepishly rubbing the back of his head.
"You as well." Koala returned his smile warmly.
"There you are babe, I finally got em—oh you have a friend." A tall blonde man said holding ice cream cones in one hand while wrapping his other arm around Koala.
"Oh yes," Koala grinned grabbing one of the sprinkled cone, "This is my former comrade in the revolutionary army I told you about, Sabo."
Sabo's outward friendly demeanor remained but his fists clenched in a deep seated anger.
"You ready to go babe? Oh who are your friends?" Carina asked curiously hanging off Sabo's arm.
The emperor couldn't help notice his ex's lack of reaction as she wore a wide smile across her features; Koala was truly happy, his fists unclenched in defeat.
"Carina I'd like you to meet my former colleague Koala, Koala I'd like to meet my girlfriend Carina." The word's left Sabo's mouth in a hurry, never did he imagine to be in this situation.
Koala's eyes sparked with wonder. "You mean the same Carina as..." Koala put it together in a matter of moments. "You better be on your best behavior you here me!" Koala barked.
"Always." He responded folding his arms with a smirk.
Koala cleared her throat regaining her composure. "This is my boyfriend Cornelius Mellon Scaife."
"Nice to properly meet you both." Cornelius smirked shaking both their hands. The couple were less than enthusiastic for different reasons.
Cornelius's eyes lit up in stars. "Wait, is this the same Sabo that's the emperor. T-that means you know the high councilor!" The man said hyperventilating.
Carina arched a brow taking a slight step behind Sabo.
"I'm sorry to ask but I'm such a big fan! He's is so awesome! Give him my business card and tell him to contact at any time, I would love an autograph." The man exclaimed happily.
Koala just stood by with a warm smile on her face.
Sabo reluctantly took the high-end business card plated in gold, whoever this guy was; he certainly had a high position in his field.
"Come on babe, we are going to miss the show." Cornelius said interlocking his fingers with Koala's, pulling her from the couple.
"It was great seeing you Sabo, Carina." She waved before they disappeared down the street.
Sabo and Carina examined the business card again.
The purple haired woman gasped loudly causing Sabo to throw her a surprised look. "What is it?"
"There's no doubt about it, it really is him" Carina said placing a hand under her chin. "That's the same Mellon-Scaife family that owns a large majority of the world's oil reserves, aluminum fortune, and the owners and publishers of the World Press Times— one of the richest non royal families in the world." Carina said in awe still glaring at the business card in Sabo's hand.
"So, thats one of the families huh? I wonder where the rest are? If they are truly that rich they could always hide themselves away, even while indirectly striking deals with us... you don't think?" He asked looking at Carina.
She shook her head denying it. "It's going to take some digging, but if there is a story there, we'll be the ones to find it." Carina spoke thinking of the implications of what Sabo was about to say.
Sabo surprised Carina wrapping his arm around her waist before they vanished in a dance of flames.
Arriving on the Dressrosa palace balcony, Carina smacked the back of Sabo's head leaving large swelling mark.
"What the hell was that for?!" He asked rubbing his sore spot.
"You know I hate when you do that." She huffed setting her shopping bags down near the king sized bed.
Sabo wrapped his arms around her from behind. "I want to be honest with you, only truth between us; Koala wasn't just my comrade, she was my ex-girlfriend." He said exhaling in relief getting it off his chest.
Carina chuckled loudly. "You idiot, I already knew that."
"Eh, how so?" He asked turning her to face him.
"I could tell, just by the way she looked at you." Carina purred pulling his tie so they were nearly touching. "But you're mine now."
The couple met in a flurry of passionate kisses as Sabo picked her up causing her squeak softly.
"I'm yours as you are mine." He said continuing to trail kisses to her collarbone, undressed her with his mouth.
The pair undressed one another quickly, discarding their clothes into a pile.
Sabo swiftly pushed into her folds as she clutched his back, digging her nails in sharply.
Carina couldn't get enough of the emperor as she flipped him into his back. "My turn." She said licking her devilishly.
After a few silent minutes of Love making Carina broke the silence, "Are you close?" she asked softly as he started to wheeze from the pleasure.
"Come on babe, this ain't my first rodeo." Sabo said with a wink.
She grunted in frustration at his attempt at bad humor in the heat of the moment, increasing her pace. Sabo could only grin, happy she became even more aggressive; the way he preferred it.
Soon she began to tire out, collapsing onto his chest as he took one of her large breasts into his mouth while placing the other milky one into his strong grip.
The pair panted loudly as Carina flipped their positions once again so Sabo was on top. With a final groan from both of them the two collapsed onto one another, basking in the afterglow of their sex. The moonlight glowed brightly through the thin drapes as they blew in the night breeze.
"You're amazing Sabo." Carina smiled placing a hand over his heart.
"Same too you Carina, I'm really happy now." He said softly placing a soft kiss on her lips as she drifted into a light sleep.
Sabo put his pants on heading to the adjacent outside balcony, before lighting a pristine cigar.
The emperor inhaled the tobacco, enjoying every puff, finally feeling a certain peace. Although he missed Koala to a certain degree, he was coming to terms she was happy and so was he—perhaps it was better off for both of them. Glancing back at the form of his sleeping girlfriend, he knew it was the right decision.
The transponder snail in the room buzzed loudly.
Sabo snatched the snail covering its mouth in a heartbeat before softly closing he doors. He was not going to suffer a beating after a wonderfully spent evening.
"What is it?" Sabo asked, irritation evident in his tone.
"Don't tell me, I'm interrupting a romantic evening for the Emperor of love." Raleigh snickered over the line.
"I hope you didn't call just to say that." Sabo smirked continuing to smoke his cigar.
"Unfortunately no, we need you back at headquarters. I already contacted Borsalino and Marco. I'm still trying to contact Katakuri, he's off the grid right now." Raleigh spoke in a some what urgent tone.
"Is Luffy alright? I need some details at least."
"He's fine, he'll be better once you get here—Luffy will explain everything when we're all gathered." The Raleigh snail exclaimed.
"Okay, I'll see you bright and early." Sabo stated clicking the snail off. He asked his cigar on the railing, sticking it into his pocket for later.
Upon opening the doors he found Carina awake sitting up.
"You're leaving aren't you?" She asked already knowing his answer.
"Yeah, sorry." Sabo simply said before getting dressed fully.
Carina pulled her nightgown on, meeting him at the door. She fixed his tie before kissing him on the cheek.
"You sure you'll be alright here alone?" Sabo asked placing a hand on her cheek.
The woman could only roll her eyes. "Of course I will you idiot. But you," she placed both her hands on his chest, "you come back to me." Carina said before placing her lips on his.
Sabo wrapped his arm around her waist pulling her tighter to him; their foreheads never leaving the other.
"See you soon." He said before swiftly exiting in a hurry.
The regret already started to creep in as she let him go off to a mission she hadn't a clue about. Only overhearing the emperors were all being summoned back to the capital city; Carina's worry overcame her as she fell into an uneasy sleep wondering about Sabo's safety.
—
Luffy sat at his desk examining the letters his navigator had written for the thousandth time. In his mind they would never get old, it became therapeutic.
Sighing loudly, he placed the neatly stacked letters in his desk drawer before examining the framed photo of the straw hats before they entered the new world. How he desperately wished to transport himself to that moment to change everything.
The high councilor stood to watch his hired team of botanists, dendrologists, and many gardeners laying new fertilized grass and mikan seeds into the soil—the construction to replace his garden had begun.
As the sun rose above the clouds, Luffy noticed four incoming regime ships in the distance preparing to dock in the private harbor—his emperors had arrived.
"I'll be back soon, keep at it." Luffy spoke to the group before heading to the throne room.
The high councilor sat with his council awaiting his four emperor's arrival. Within a few minutes Katakuri, Sabo, Borsalino, and Marco wordlessly entered the room taking their respective seats.
"So brother what's all this about?" Sabo asked crossing his arms.
Getting right to point Luffy stood from his seat grabbing a freshly deceased corpse from behind his throne, tossing it unceremoniously on the floor.
Sabo immediately put his hand over his mouth to keep from hurling up his breakfast upon seeing the next contorted in a very unnatural way.
The room was in shock except for Ace who'd seen the body previously.
"This is Delta, he was a supposed new god sent from the afterlife. I called you all back here because they'll be here soon, Dragon already issued citizens to stay in there homes until instructed otherwise." Luffy spoke capturing the attention of the room.
"Did these new gods say they'd be here today?" Marco asked glancing at the deceased body of Delta, coughing into his hand from the sight.
"It could be next today, tomorrow, a week, maybe a month—but I can take any chances." Luffy said taking his seat once again.
"More than likely they'll be here very soon, assuming this is their beloved brother; they'll want retribution." Raleigh added scratching his beard.
"In any case we need to make sure the palace and everything is secured, we can't afford to fight in the city, we'll fight them in the palace and on the beaches, away from civilian homes." Garp exclaimed puffing his cigar. "I'll make preparations for our counter measures." The eldest councilman stood from his seat heading out the door.
"Coby, I'll need you to keep our elite forces in the royal sector and the rest of the squads in constant communication— we need to put our lives on the line for our citizens." Luffy commanded.
"I'll get it done high councilor." He answered earning a nod from their leader.
"I know you want to fight Ace, but your job is to keep our soldiers protected in anyway you can, only fight if necessary." The high councilor spoke to the stoic deadman as he pulled his translucent hat over his eyes.
"It seems like you two had quite the battle, at least we know they're not invincible." Borsalino pointed out examining the damage to Delta's neck.
"No they're aren't, but they might as well be. Their durability and stamina seemed limitless, our friend over here had extremely high pain tolerance; snapping his neck was the only way to defeat him, everything else in my arsenal was futile." Luffy exclaimed folding his arms. In his brief but brutal fight he learned one thing about these new gods. In a drawn out fight he would never win, as they seemed to never tire out. However, Delta was cockiness became his weakness—not all the gods would be this way. Luffy contemplated some other weaknesses that could be exposed in the future.
Katakuri stood abruptly from his seat catching the other's undivided attention.
"They're here." He said calmly.
Loud thunderous booms could be heard coming from the front of the palace. Luffy stood from his throne, they had indeed arrived.
The councilmen surrounded Borsalino placing a finger on him, vanishing in a ray of light.
The Regime councilmen stood at the peak of the front steps leading to the high palace.
In a great flash of lightning eight entities appeared from the bolt emerging from the light; The new gods had arrived.
Luffy stepped to the forefront glaring at the leader who he assumed was Alpha based on what Delta told him.
Alpha stepped in front of his brothers matching Luffy's intense stare.
The battle for the ages was about to begin.