Chapter XXI: A Provocative Hypocrite
"Most virtue is a demand for greater seduction." -Natalie Barney
The Royal Library of Alubarna was a beacon of knowledge and culture, unmarred by academic elitism or class snobbery. It welcomed both: brilliant minds looking to enrich their research and careers, as well as curious novices who were about to embark upon a lifelong learning crusade.
Beneath its gilded rooftop, it housed a plethora of rare texts and books covering virtually all imaginable subjects. Like most Alabastans, Vivi took great pride in this iconic cultural relic, and she was confident that Robin would revel in being there a lot more than the average visitor.
The two women were ensconced in a quiet suite on the upper floors of the building, reserved for the King and his kin, one of the few Royal perks Vivi never shied from.
There she sat occasionally looking out the window at the thick, silvery clouds drifting in the sky; a few sun rays pierced them casting a beautiful glow upon the city below.
It was so peaceful that for a fleeting moment Vivi almost forgot about the chaos and bloodshed that took place beneath this same sky just a few days ago.
We can finally rebuild this country, she smiled and turned to face Robin who was too engrossed to notice anything beyond the walls of the library.
"This, this is something else! I have never seen such a well-preserved copy of 'The Redline Chronicles', only a few chapters are missing! It's unbelievable." Robin's voice trailed off as she examined a voluminous tome with trepidation that Vivi found endearing.
The brunette continued to look around in awe at the selection spread out on the table in front of her. Her cerulean eyes could barely conceal her excitement, for her thirst for knowledge was insatiable after all, and whatever was hidden within the pages beneath her fingers was one of the few ways to quench it- albeit temporarily.
She is in her element here, Vivi grinned as she watched the archaeologist trace the spines of a book in her hand.
"You know I could live here." Robin reiterated the bluenette's line of thought.
"I am glad you like it here! Perhaps one day, when you find the—what you are looking for, you could come back here and help us manage all this." Vivi suggested sincerely.
Robin beamed at the thought. I doubt the World Government will let me go unchecked unless I take on a new identity...easier said than done. But one could always hope.
"I would love that! You got yourself a deal Princess." she laughed, if I even make it back that is.
A sad smile tugged at the corners of her mouth.
Gently setting the tome down, Robin's face adopted a more serious expression.
That didn't escape Vivi's attention as a sense of foreboding settled in the pit of her stomach. She understood that whatever Robin would say next will be of the utmost importance.
The older woman was hesitant at first. She sighed before settling her elbows on the cold surface of the marble table.
"After all that I have put you through, I think it my duty to guide you through a few matters to prepare you for what's to come. But...argh, this place is incredible. I must say I have trouble concentrating on what I am about to cover with you." Robin struggled to diffuse the sudden heaviness in the room as she dusted off the cover of the book she picked up earlier.
"If you like it this much you can have it you know." Vivi smiled warmly.
"No! I wouldn't be able to keep it in the right environment, and it will fall apart the minute I take it out of Alabasta, the dry climate here is perfect for preserving these treasures. They must stay here at all costs!"
I survived by a thread this time, who knows what will happen next? No one could salvage these if I were to die.
"As you wish, I will keep an eye on it for you." Vivi was unsure of what to say next as she fumbled with the smooth silk fabric of her short ivory coloured skirt.
Robin mouthed a thank you, sighing she looked up at the ornate ceiling.
It was covered by a large inlay of precious Lapis lazuli with mother of pearl stars meant to depict the night sky, at the centre of it all, was the ancient Alabastan goddess of wisdom drawn with remarkable detail. There she was watching over them in her opulent robes with an impassive expression upon her face, a scroll in one hand and the sacred falcon perched on the other.
Everything is a relic or a work of art here, and somewhere within these walls there must be a link to the Void Century, I wish I had more time to explore it. But keeping Vivi alive is just as important now.
She leaned forward.
It's like she can't decide where to start, Vivi thought as her hand reached out intuitively for the water jug on a silver tray.
"So, what do I need to learn?" pouring them both a glass of refreshing, crystal clear mint infused water, the Alabastan decided to take matters into her own hands.
Is she going to bring up the intimacy part again? She chewed her lip as her post-bath rosy cheeks flushed a deeper shade of pink, she set the jug down with a little more force than necessary, it clinked loudly upon the tray alerting Robin back to her senses.
She cleared her throat, her eyes darted back to Vivi's grey ones, she could catch a hint of worry in them, but Robin noticed that it was also increasingly harder to read her than ever before.
Well, at least she will be more informed.
"With things going the way the are with Doflamingo, you will soon enter a giant viper's nest. Dressrosa that is. The palace life there is very different from the one here."
A perfect representation of its King, she paused.
Working for Crocodile and the Revolutionaries opened up a host of sleuthing opportunities for Robin and paired with her natural curiosity she had her own "little" database on all the important and unimportant figures from Paradise to the New World.
"I figured asking Doflamingo, and my Father would not be enough." Vivi nodded, she was unfazed by it, in fact, she expected this. Pausing to take a sip from her lotus shaped chalice, she was readying herself to make a mental note of all the names Robin was about to divulge.
I can't trust anyone outside Alabasta at this point, so I can't leave any paper trails this time around.
Robin appreciated her 'pupil's' astuteness, so she dove right into it.
"That's right, that's why I asked Mr.2, well he volunteered actually," a little too enthusiastically, "to join you in Dressrosa. We both agree that his devil fruit abilities would be of great use to you."
Vivi's eyes lightened up at the news; she raised her shoulders.
"He doesn't have to, although I am so glad to hear this. Where is he now? Is he alright?" Her momentous joy was short-lived as concern etched its way upon her features.
"Oh don't worry about him! He is out collecting his 'bounty fees' around Alabasta, whatever that means." Robin rolled her eyes in amusement, "he promised to be back before you depart for Dressrosa. And you know how obsessed he is with honouring his word."
Vivi sighed in relief, at least he is alive and well!
"I can't wait to see him and personally thank him for all his help! But I wouldn't want him to risk his life for me again."
"Oh he won't, and he insists on joining you there. But you two will need to come up with a good role for him to justify his presence to Doflamingo."
"That's easy. Mr.2 will be my combat or ballet instructor."
Robin raised her eyebrows.
"Err, well I suppose that could work, given the eccentricity of the Donquixote Family. He will likely fit right in."
Vivi stifled a laugh.
"Are they that bad? Even stranger than the Baroque Works agents?" her eyes twinkled with mirth as she took a humourous jab at her former colleague.
"Ahem." Robin feigned a cough.
"No, no, I didn't mean you specifically! You know, like Miss Merry Christmas for example." Vivi protested apologetically.
"You do have a point on Baroque Works though hehe. But to answer your question—yes, the Donquixote Family executives are even more eccentric, ruthless and of course loyal to their leader. Their reverence for Doflamingo is almost fanatic, and they address him as 'Young Master'.
"And I thought the 'Sir' before 'Crocodile' or Mister Zero were pretentious...also how is he still 'young'?" Vivi propped up her chin with her hand.
Although he certainly doesn't look old, Vivi's glanced at the door as though Doflamingo was standing right there.
Robin was bemused by Vivi's observation. So innocent at times but you know precisely where to sting with your words Princess.
"He certainly isn't on paper, but for his executives he is everything. Everything. So you have to watch what you say and do while you're there. As they have eyes everywhere."
"Of course they would."
"I meant that literally. One of Doflamingo's subordinates, a woman named Violet, has a unique ability, the Glare-Glare fruit. She can read anybody's mind including their memories, and see through everything. Naturally, Doflamingo has her see through anyone he wants, and I am sure at some point that will include you too."
Vivi's mouth hung open in astonishment.
"So I must watch my thoughts as well?! Is there a way I could prevent her from seeing into my mind?"
"Well, this hasn't been tested, and I don't know whether it works or not, but from what I gathered through my research, people with strong obsessions might be able to use them to block out any other thoughts. So in your case try to think of Alabasta and its people for example, or some sort of aspect of it to use that as your mantra to throw her off. But I can't guarantee anything with that."
Vivi massaged her temples in frustration.
How the hell am I going to win Doflamingo's trust when he has people like that working for him?!
Robin wasn't sure if the next bit of information might help Vivi, as it only recently came from the Revolutionaries and hadn't been confirmed by any other source yet.
It might be of some use to her.
"Actually, we, I mean the other Revolutionaries recently learned that this woman was coerced to work for Doflamingo."
Vivi rolled her eyes. "What a surprise." That hypocrite! He acts almighty and above banal tricks like that, but at the end of the day he is no that different to Crocodile.
"It certainly was for me, when I learned why." Robin began as Vivi leaned in across the table. "This might all be just a rumour, and I haven't received any concrete proof to verify it yet, but some say that she is the daughter of the former King of Dressrosa, Riku Dold. And that she used her devil fruit ability as a bargaining chip to stay alive. So who knows? You might even find common ground with her."
"Hmm, if true then it would make sense. I guess anyone in her position would do the same. I worked for Crocodile too after all." Vivi tapped her chin thoughtfully, can't judge her for that.
"I will see what I can do with this information, should I look for some evidence to confirm that rumour for you?" she asked.
"You don't need to trouble yourself but if there is something unusual then feel free to share it with me," Robin answered neutrally, although her mind buzzed at all the possibilities Vivi's suggestion could open up.
Having someone on the ground in Dressrosa and at her level, would be incredibly useful to the Revolutionaries and she certainly has the knack for it but then...the double agent hesitated. No. I can't put her in any more danger than I have already.
Puzzled by the brunette's silence, Vivi gently tapped the table.
No response.
"Robin?" Vivi tilted her head.
"Ah forgive me, I was trying to remember something. Right then, where were we?" Robin snapped out of her reverie.
"The possible Dressrosan Princess who probably works for Doflamingo against her will and has a ridiculously useful devil fruit." How many more insane tricks and weapons does he have at his disposal?!
"Mhmm. Alright, remember to try my experimental technique against her ability, it might just do the trick and be courteous, well your usual self around her. You might even win her on your side."
Or perhaps not, if the other rumour about her and Doflamingo was true. Robin didn't know much about this mysterious woman, having never even met her hence she was unsure of what advice to give to her temporary protege.
This perplexed her to no end.
"Just be extra careful around her," she concluded.
"Okay, I will, don't worry." Vivi looked amused. Running her fingers through her wet hair, she looked up at Robin with anticipation.
"So, who's next?" Vivi's businesslike tone steered Robin's mind to more practical matters.
"I like your approach Prin—Vivi, next we have Trebol. He has been with Doflamingo since the day the latter lost his parents or eve-"
"Sorry for the interruption but how did Doflamingo lose his parents?" Vivi interjected.
I haven't asked him about that yet...although it doesn't seem that he cares much about it, he's not too fond of his brother nor his father. What about his Mother? He never mentioned her.
"That, well I am not exactly sure myself." Robin paled, she knew some minor details thanks to her commander in the Revolutionary Army, but he never gave her the full story and the pained look in his eyes when he mentioned it quashed any questions she might have had on the subject.
"His mother died of an illness, and as for his father, I don't know," she answered cryptically.
"I see. That's unfortunate." For some odd reason, Vivi didn't feel it necessary to disclose Doflamingo's hatred for his father, most likely because she was afraid of the conclusion that could lead to. Patricide was an especially unforgivable sin in Alabasta.
I hope that he had no part in his father's death. What if one day our—no. Stop it.
Or perhaps she pitied him for losing his mother, that's another thing they had in common. Yes, that's it. Vivi mentally cut off any possible thoughts of their future.
She chastised herself for losing focus and tried hard to listen to the rest of her mentor's improvised lecture on the Donquixote Executives.
There was a large Officer named Pica, who was very "insecure about the timbre of his voice" and another flashy Officer Diamante, who loved flattery and appreciated any attempt to "stroke his ego."
By the end of it, the bluenette knew that she had to be extra careful around the three elite officers and their Devil Fruit wielding subordinates. Robin suggested that she befriend at least a few of them for a start and gave her various suggestions on how to do so, like gifting an Alabastan painting to the art-loving Jora or asking a younger, apron-wearing brunette for help.
Vivi tried to memorise it as a best as she could and peppered Robin with numerous questions.
"That little girl you mentioned earlier, what is her Devil Fruit ability?"
"Sugar? I don't know that yet, but it must be something rather powerful if she is often seen accompanied by Elite Officers or Doflamingo himself."
"This doesn't bode well for me either. What if it's another incredible ability like that other executive Violet?" Vivi voiced her concern.
"You are smart enough to survive Crocodile and outwit us for some years; I am sure that with your brains and Mr.2's skills you will be able to thrive there. Be sure to amplify your status and your lineage. Maybe you could wear Alabastan colours and fabrics like His Majesty, have your servants dressed accordingly and of course carry the local perfumes around with you. You know this part better than I ever will."
Robin was almost out of breath at this point and reached for the chalice that Vivi had filled for her earlier.
"Alabasta will be my weapon huh? Be an exotic houseguest there? You and I both know that I would not want to linger there a day longer than necessary. But I have to admit this sounds fun! I wanted to do something like that." Vivi smirked.
Robin laughed at Vivi's frankness.
"Would you like to share a little preview of your strategy Princess?" she winked conspiratorially.
"Remember the old kings? I am sure you read about them."
"The ones who were worshipped as gods?"
"Yes." Vivi nodded appreciatively.
"Go on." Robin's eyes lit up; she had an inkling of where Vivi was going with this.
"I wanted to wear their regalia when I arrive in Dressrosa, and I want Doflamingo to wear at least something Alabastan too upon arrival. To show his people that he has embraced our culture and consequently my influence. You know? I am sure that they paint him as some hero who saved the day in Alabasta as well. But we know what happened. And if we were to have a...if I was to honour my end of the deal with him," Vivi gulped. "then I want the child to carry the Nefertari name as well. I have to show them that we carry clout. That should set the boundaries in place between myself and his executives right?"
It looks like I don't have much to worry about, after all, Robin smiled proudly as she tapped her lips with her fingers.
"You had it all planned out! By establishing formal boundaries, you prevent them from getting too close to you and prying too much. But how will you convince Doflamingo to become more 'Alabastan'?"
Surely you won't tell him that he is now a divine being by way of his union to you?
"That I don't know yet, but I will start by showing him the inscriptions at the Karnak temple. I already sent out a letter to the priests there to greet me in the old way." Vivi traced an invisible, serpentine pattern with her fingertips across the table.
"As a goddess?" Robin raised her chin.
Vivi nodded slowly.
Good start. This might work.
"I see what you're doing. That is going to be pretty elaborate but clever nonetheless. He already singled you out for your lineage now you are just further cementing and enhancing the reasons why he went after you. That way you are automatically above those who serve him. I doubt he will ever see anyone as his equal, but you might be as close to that as anyone can be."
"Let's just hope it works!" Vivi positively glowed upon hearing Robin's praise.
"It will and remember you won't always be alone in this. I will find ways to contact you throughout your stay. Be sure to study the maps of the island carefully and if you get your hands on it—the building plans of its palace. Plan a backup escape route as soon as you get there just in case."
"I will see what I can do. This is beginning to sound like another mission Miss All-Sunday!" Vivi laughed at Robin's list of precautions.
"It does! Except for this time your objective is to survive, or even better—thrive."
"I'll try my best." Vivi clapped her palms once.
A soft knock on the door ended their precious moment of camaraderie.
"Yes?" Vivi called out.
Robin was readying to hide beneath the table.
"Vivi it's me." King Cobra's voice rung loud and clear from the other side.
Vivi sighed in relief as Robin rose from her chair to greet the man. She still had a lingering number of questions that she would have loved to have an answer for, but it was marred by a mixture of shame and guilt.
"Join us, Papa."
Softly shutting the door behind him, King Cobra made a clandestine entrance, thoroughly juxtaposed by his eminent status.
"Nico Robin, it's good to see you alive and well." He nodded in acknowledgement.
"Likewise your Majesty. It is a relief to see you return to your duties so soon after...all that." Robin awkwardly returned the courtesy, the irony of having an actual King show her more respect than most people ever did throughout her life did not escape her.
He gave her a strained smile.
"There is something I wanted to discuss with you in private but first-" he turned to his daughter "I came by to give you the marriage contract."
A single scroll, held together by a simple, golden ring lay in the palm of his outstretched, bandaged hand.
Vivi could feel her nostrils flare in anger seeing the remnants of the torture that Crocodile subjected him to. Another reminder to stay on course.
I would kill, marry or sleep with a devil if need be to protect you and our people. Anything to keep you all safe and alive.
Masking her dark thoughts with a joyful smile, she took the scroll with forced enthusiasm.
"What? He signed it already?! I bet the negotiations went in our favour; you are a seasoned politician after all, more so than Doflamingo."
"Well let's just say that despite our age difference your husband-to-be knows how to drive a hard bargain! But I did what I could." Cobra laughed weakly, yet his eyes were tinged with sadness.
"Once a pirate always a pirate I guess, and where is he now?" Vivi's confident bluff dissipated.
"He had to take an urgent call, but I told him that we would be here," Cobra replied.
"I see. Well, I guess we should wrap this up before he gets here."
From her seat, Robin could see the effort that the pair put into seeing the brighter side of the situation and that constant guilt surfaced again.
Another regret I have to live with...
Vivi twirled the document in her fingers; the peculiar ring caught her eyes.
It can't be!
"Isn't this grandfather's signet ring?!" she gasped.
This time her reaction was genuine.
The King's face brightened by her outburst.
"It is, he wanted to you to have it as he believed that you could unite Alabasta with its past. He had the jewellers add your name, in the Old Language there on the side. Can you see it?"
Vivi stepped closer to the window for a better look.
"Ah, right here beneath the serpent symbol right? I need to pick up my hieroglyphic studies again. Robin, you must have heard of our old writing system right?" she glanced back at the archaeologist.
"I have indeed, although I must say it is tough to find any complete examples of it throughout the Kingdom. May I take a look?"
Robin's heart skipped a beat as she carefully took the ring.
"Ah, of course, you would notice that." King Cobra chimed in, surprising both women, as his gaze shifted to the archaeologist, he waited apprehensively
"Most of it is concentrated in the Northern Provinces where the Priests still use it, but that's supposed to be a..." he paused deliberating if he should opt for a more detailed explanation.
"A secret. I can see why now." Robin finished his sentence; she handed the ring back to Vivi.
"This is essentially the ancestor of the written language used on the Poneglyphs, which means that any Alabastan who still speaks this old language, will be able to read them with a bit of extra effort. The deciphering part will be easier for you." Robin could feel the s dread return to the pit of her stomach where it coiled into a heavy ball.
"What?! Are you sure of this?" Vivi panicked. I know about the temples, but the writing?! Does that mean Father knows how to read them too? But he never told me. This puts us all in danger...
"What are we going to do?" she reached out to him.
He lowered his eyes silently.
"You knew this already, and what the Poneglyph said. Your Majesty, you must never let anyone besides your daughter, even catch a single whiff of this information! They will not hesitate to erase this entire land." Robin implored remembering the collapsing Tree of Knowledge back in Ohara. All of it was gone in an instant.
"You are right, that is why we systematically destroyed any evidence of the actual texts throughout Alabasta, the temples however...they function independently from the palace, so my ancestors tried their best to lower and obscure the significance of our ancient cults. So far the strategy worked, but as a result, the Northern Provinces are practically isolated, protected by the harsh desert and its stubborn inhabitants."
Vivi listened intently, imprinting each word upon her mind.
"I have never even seen them on the maps of Alabasta! Even Crocodile never mentioned them." Robin couldn't believe what she was hearing.
"That's because most of it hidden beneath the sands." Vivi explained, "Can we count on you to not tell anyone, including the Revolutionaries about this?"
The archaeologist nodded solemnly. "I know my word doesn't carry much weight, but please trust me when I saw that this the least I could do for you and this country."
"You have our thanks." King Cobra replied seriously.
"Please don't thank me. One thing worries me though, Vivi, you are travelling to the north with Doflamingo! Isn't that a risk?"
Robin's eyes looked to the window, but Vivi made her way to the door as if checking for potential eavesdroppers.
"They will not go beyond the Karnak Temple which on the surface still functions as a temple, but we use it as a decoy for any spies or World Government agents to protect the other parts further up." The King answered for Vivi.
"I see. That is a very elaborate cover-up you have here." Robin was practically floored by the revelations the father-daughter duo made in the past few minutes.
Her mind was still processing the scale of it all, but it was all starting to make sense. The size of the temple complex dwarfed anything around it; they fooled everybody thus far.
"Father I don't think we should be discussing this here, he might be outside already. Why don't you and Robin head back to your study? If anyone catches us now, there could be trouble." Vivi cautioned.
"You are right dear, although a man of his stature will have a hard time hiding here haha." Cobra lightened the mood, "but will you be alright here on your own?
"Of course, he won't harm me. Besides, it is better if I can talk to him about the terms on my own," she reassured him.
Vivi's response puzzled her Father, but he decided to ask her about it later.
"I will respect your decision then. Chaka is here too so if anything just-"
"Don't worry! Just go!" she laughed.
Cobra sighed, she grew up too fast.
He moved a chair at the back of the room and lifted the red carpet beneath it, puzzled Robin raised her eyebrow.
Oblivious to her expression, Cobra rolled the carpet off to the side.
"This is a hidden passageway that leads to my private study at the palace; we can continue our discussion there."
He then pressed a key into a tiny slit on the floor, something creaked, and one of the slabs moved to the side, revealing a stone staircase, that descended beyond their line of vision.
"That's very practical," Robin remarked sardonically.
"It is especially now," Cobra chuckled as he let Robin go in first, she took carefully took a step down the stairs.
Usually, the Oharan wouldn't trust anyone who offered her to take a secret passage into what looked like a dungeon, but this was a man whose life she almost destroyed. Who am I to turn him down?
"Thank you, Your Majesty. I-"
"Wait! When will I see you again? " Vivi walked up to the opening in the floor.
But before Robin could even reply a loud knock on the door petrified them all into silence.
This isn't good; Papa can't be seen with Robin.
Robin thought so as well as she stretched her hand up to help the King join her. "Meet me at the docks tonight," she whispered looking up at Vivi who nodded at her.
Another knock followed, more forceful than the previous one.
"If anything, call for Chaka!" Cobra now safely in the passageway, reiterated his earlier "tip."
Vivi smiled mouthing an "okay" while ushering him to go.
"Who is it?" she yelled while closing the floor mechanism up.
" P-princess Vivii, Y-y-y-our Hi-highness, the K-kking of Dressrosa, Shichibukai D-D-Donquixote Dofla-mingo requested a pr-private audience with you-u and H-his Maj-maj-esty!" came a stammered reply from an intimidated royal guard.
"Please tell him to wait! Father is not here." Vivi replied as she hurriedly rearranged the furniture back into place.
"B-but he is-"the guard began.
"You won't even greet me eh? Open the door Desert Cat."
Vivi scowled when she heard his smooth voice tease her through the door.
Finally sliding the chair back, she stomped towards the door and swung it open before turning away from it and walking back to the window. She was annoyed at herself for falling prey to his provocative jab. I need to reign in my temper around him, and it only makes him happier. Or I could use it to my advantage...hmm.
She closed her eyes for a moment. Vivi found it tiring to always to ponder her every move when dealing with him.
The royal guard bowed and scurried off.
"Come in." she 'invited' the blond icily, with her back to the entrance as she tried to compose herself.
Needing no further encouragement, Doflamingo strode in and closed the door with a tap of his foot.
"And hello to you too Princess." he quipped, but he felt an odd sensation as his eyes drunk in her form. "Fresh out of the baths I see, did I interrupt a private moment?" he carried on.
The light streaming from the window danced about her wet tresses as though they were lit from within.
Vivi took a deep breath before facing him only to be greeted by that leonine smile of his.
"Yes, I came here to relax, this was supposed to be my private time you know. We do not give audiences in these quarters. They're purely for our leisure."
Doflamingo smirked at that. Leisure eh? Goes well with your outfit fufu. Her skirt barely covered her long legs, and that belt on her waist further accentuated her feminine curves despite its practical purpose.
"You find that amusing? Your presence here is against the rules." she chastised him but as she said that her eyes hesitantly travelled up his body.
Oblivious to his lewd thoughts, Vivi rubbed her bare shoulders, she had to admit that the man possessed a majestic magnetism, sure his stature had something to do that as her father had pointed out earlier, but she could tell that it went beyond that.
Power. He radiates it regardless of what he is doing, even when he is fooling around or lying on the desert sand. It is always there no matter what...like his tacky sunglasses.
As if feeling her suppressed attraction towards him, Doflamingo crossed the room and sat in the same chair Robin occupied moments earlier.
"I broke a rule? " he asked her in a playful tone before leaning back, "I was sure that you would know this by now, but just to make it clear-" Vivi tensed as she felt the sudden shift in his voice.
"Rules do not apply to me. Never have and never will. And if you have any more, then I will be sure to break them...one by one. Never forget that."
You get away with some of your tricks Desert Cat, only because I allow you to. But you will learn soon enough fufu.
At that moment Vivi wondered if this is what a gazelle would feel once it realises that it is about to be devoured by a lion.
I can't show him my fear, and this has to be another one of his stupid tests.
But her throat went dry as she struggled to find a suitable comeback.
Her fingers clenched the scroll with all the terms if of their "arrangement."
Doflamingo grinned anticipating her outburst.
No, no. I will be calm, like Papa. Inhale, exhale. Show him that you are above common feelings, would our ancient deities react to petty threats? No. This is the image he needs to associate with me. She thought of the fresco of the goddess of wisdom on the ceiling above them.
Yes. Calm and collected. The epitome of serenity. Above it all.
"Anyway, to save us both some time," the bluenette swiftly unrolled the contract, "let me just go over this."
Doflamingo's grin faltered, "Go ahead. You will be surprised by the generosity of the terms there."
Vivi gave him a tense smile. "Sure."
Doflamingo thought he heard a hint of sarcasm. Struggling to keep your cool eh? Let it all out fufu.
His eyes studied her face carefully; the stern expression did little to take away from the beauty of her delicate features.
And how hard she tried to maintain the look of an indifferent matron!
At one point he noticed how he she chewed her lip, a sign of stress perhaps? At others, her eyes narrowed or her brow curved up. Every little gesture made her an open book. Or so he thought.
How long will you stay this way? His thoughts drifted to another Princess, all those years ago. Her brown eyes were burning with fear and hatred as she begged him to spare her father. Viola is still passionate though fufu, what will Desert Cat be like at her age?
He watched as Vivi placed the contract on the table.
"Well? What do you think?" he asked tapping his fingers against the thick parchment.
Vivi picked up a pen, "The terms are...adequate, I suppose. Although I am surprised that neither you nor Father thought of including a Divine Ceremony...but I guess it doesn't matter now anyway, this will do too."
She quickly signed the document before Doflamingo could say anything. Smiling she pushed the contract towards him.
"Here you go."
Let's see if you take the bait. This gamble was the foundation of her entire strategy. The priests at Karnak would soon receive her letter-if they haven't already-and start the preparations, if Doflamingo shows no interest in that, then her plan will flop.
"Adequate you say? Didn't know you were this hard to please fufu." Divine eh? I like the sound of that.
"I was sure that you would know that by now." Vivi retorted using his earlier words against him. He didn't take it?
Vivi licked her lips as she tucked a strand of hair behind her ear.
She reached out for her chalice.
Come on, say something!
"Tsk, I thought you were more creative than that," he retorted watching her press the edge of the elaborate cup to her lips.
"And what's that about a 'Divine Ceremony', King Cobra made no mention of this."
That sly old fox!
"He didn't? I thought that would be one of the reasons why he is sending us to the Karnak Temple."
"You didn't answer my question."
"About the Divine Ceremony?"
"Yes." Doflamingo was suddenly very serious.
I think he took it. A sense of relief washed over her.
"It's a traditional matrimonial ceremony that my ancestors used to seal their unions at the same temple we are going to."
"Is this same thing as the Purification Ritual?"
"No. They are completely different."
"Interesting, and what is it that makes this ceremony 'divine'?"
Did Cobra omit this on purpose? To make our deal as insignificant as possible?
Vivi blinked in surprise, trying to make it as natural as possible while suppressing her smile.
"Well in the old days, the Kings of Alabasta were worshipped as gods, their rule was considered sacred by all." She set down her chalice, noting Doflamingo's unusual silence.
Spurred by his reaction Vivi continued.
"The Divine Ceremony was a way to connect with their immortal ancestor since the Priests would perform a unifying rite between the couple. They say that this ceremony strengthens our line. And that is why we could stay in power throughout the centuries."
Doflamingo was genuinely intrigued by this revelation.
Strengthen their line huh? An immortal ancestor? Where are you going with this Desert Cat?
"Do these priests use some kind of devil fruit?" he sounded sceptical.
"I don't think so because they wouldn't be able to use a devil fruit's power within the walls of the temple."
"Don't be naive it is probably done beyond those walls, or that's what they want you to believe."
He IS interested. Good.
"My Grandfather said it's always performed inside the temple. But I don't know how accurate any of this is because those who participate in the ceremony are forbidden to speak about what goes on there. So I am not sure myself."
"Sounds like a children's tale fufu." Doflamingo laughed. How many more tricks do you plan to pull on me eh?
Vivi shared his mirth.
"Maybe, Father doesn't believe in it either, perhaps that's why he didn't include it in the contract."
The Princess threw another shot in an attempt to reignite his interest. I need something else to keep him on track; her eyes drifted to her new ring.
"Oh, he doesn't?" Doflamingo enquired.
"No, but Grandfather forced him and my mother to do it, they always argued about it though. That's another reason I got this." Vivi pointed to the signet ring on her index finger.
"What's this? A ring with magical powers fufufu?"
Vivi rolled her eyes. This is dangerous.
"No, it's my key to the temple and its priests. My Grandfather believed that I could convince the priests to serve us directly like in the old days. This ring belonged to the old kings."
I might be getting carried away here...
"The priests with the superpowers to strengthen the kings? Well, aren't you special?" Doflamingo joked. But this was beginning to appeal to him.
"Well isn't that why you 'chose' me?" Vivi countered.
"I didn't expect all these bonus features, my what a package fufu."
"You don't believe me do you?" her stormy eyes narrowed.
"Prove me wrong then." he challenged her.
"I will." she huffed
"Do try, I need a strong heir fufu."
Vivi's cheeks reddened. This time it wasn't out of shyness, no, it was anger.
"Do the ceremony with me then." she brushed away a loose strand of hair in annoyance.
Doflamingo laughed even harder.
"You're such a hypocrite you know?" she hissed.
"What's that now?" he grabbed her wrist pulling her across the table towards himself.
Vivi went in full character.
"I said you are a hypocrite. Telling me how you chose me because you need an heir with a distinguished lineage but when I tell you that there is more to my heritage than what everybody knows-you mock me. Isn't this exactly what you wanted? An indestructible dynasty?" Vivi demanded aggressively despite the compromising position she found herself in.
Her upper body bent over the table, while her thighs pressed into its hard edge, their faces nearly touched.
Doflamingo stopped laughing. He loved that defiant spark in her eyes.
"My ambitions go beyond that, but I am also a practical man. I did my research into immortality, and nothing in it points to your kingdom. And believe me, I combed through most of the world for it."
"Most but not all."
"Do you still think I will believe in something like that?" his fingers gripped her wrist with more force.
"Look at the ring." she gritted her teeth and tried to jerk her hand away from him, wincing in pain.
Doflamingo slowly loosened his grip and gently lifted her hand, softly rubbing her rapidly bruising skin with his thumb.
These symbols, they look like-
"I am not giving it to you!" she yelled.
Doflamingo could barely hear Vivi so engrossed was he in his thoughts.
These symbols are either identical or similar to the poneglyphs everyone is desperately searching for.
"Relax I wasn't going to take it." He let go of her hand.
Vivi rubbed her wrist with her hand splayed out on the table.
Doflamingo shifted his gaze to Vivi, is this why she is getting closer to Nico Robin? The only person who could read them, but then—
"You said your Grandfather gave you this ring? Does that mean you can read what it says?" he lowered his voice.
Vivi was surprised by the change.
Robin was right, I should've hidden it but how could I convince him then?
But she was far too thick in the dangerous waters; there was no turning back.
Casting a cautionary glance at the door, Vivi wracked her brains to come up with a safe and believable answer.
"No, unfortunately, no one uses this old script anymore but when I found out Miss All-Sunday's real identity-"
"You wanted her to read it for you?" Doflamingo hoped that her answer would go beyond that.
"Actually..." her eyes reflected upon his pink lenses. "after she helped me in Rainbase, I was hoping she could teach me to read them so I could study the works of the old Priests and maybe more..."
This was was not a complete lie, Vivi wouldn't mind asking Robin's for academic help, but this was the only way she could avert Doflamingo's suspicions regarding the symbols from herself and her family.
With a proud smile upon his face he said, "You are something else entirely Desert Cat." and reached out to cup her face, "you will make a remarkable Queen." His lips brushed against her ear, sending shivers down her spine.
That charlatan-esque ceremony didn't seem so improbable to him now.
Maybe there is something to it if it can manifest in someone like her. I will let her think so for now.
"My Queen." he breathed against her jaw as his lips travelled down.
Vivi inhaled sharply, as she felt her body react to his touch.
Dexterous fingers gathered her thick hair gently tugging it back, exposing her neck.
She felt his hot, wet tongue flick across her soft skin. Her fingers brushed the sleeve of his white shirt before latching onto the fuchsia cufflinks of his one-eyed jolly roger, then further down to his large hand.
"You want more don't you?"
"..."
Vivi wished she could share his lack of inhibitions.
"Don't be shy," he smirked, planting another kiss on her collarbone.
She bit her lip and yelped when a strong arm wrapped around her waist, yanking her off the table and down into his lap.
"That's better."
"Wait. We shouldn't..."
"Why? Our deal has been signed and sealed."
Vivi squirmed as his fingers pressed into her flesh.
I need to bind him to me.
"Someone might come at any moment; it isn't safe here."
His hands travelled down to her hips. Vivi wasn't naive enough to not comprehend the growing intensity of his desire.
"Do you feel that? This is what you're doing to me," he growled.
She wrapped her hands around his neck, pressing her forehead to his, taking him by surprise with her boldness.
"Remember to let go and focus on the pleasure", that's what Robin said but...
"Not here, and not with these on." She tapped his sunglasses.
Doflamingo froze.
No one ever dared to issue so many conditions to him, and he never bothered to remove his eyewear with anyone.
This was a tall order, but he wasn't sure why a part of him was curious to see her reaction. Would she coil away in fear or disgust?
"Should I take them off?" he asked as his warm skin pressed into hers.
"Well, I wo-"
"Not here, and not with this on" he tugged her belt and threw his head back in laughter.
Whatever arousal Vivi may have experienced vanished without an inkling of its former presence.
Her hand itched to slap him, but she remembered how he reacted to that last time.
"Fair enough. Let go of me," she demanded to save whatever was left of her dignity as her face burned with embarrassment.
Doflamingo continued to laugh as he helped her to the floor.
"You never fail to surprise me, Princess."
"I am so honoured to hear that." Her voice dripped with sarcasm.
"Anyone would be." he quipped.
"You just don't give up do you?"
"Do I look like I do?"
"Of course not," Vivi muttered under her breath, her fingers wrapped around the door handle. "Don't forget, Father is holding a small dinner reception with the local nobility to make the announcement tonight. Your presence i-"
"I will be there...with you." he licked his lips suggestively.
"Alright then, I should be going now." she pulled the door open.
"Are you sure? Stay, I could teach you a trick or two."
Vivi sighed in exasperation.
"I have to get ready for dinner, so save your tricks for tomorrow." Serene, indifferent, divine...her racing heartbeat was anything but that.
"You have no idea what you just got yourself into fufu."
Vivi's foot crossed the threshold, she smirked.
"No, " she began firmly, "it's the other way around. YOU have no idea what you got yourself into when you decided to marry me...Doflamingo." she scoffed.
His brow shot up.
Vivi gave him a dazzling smile before making a swift exit to prevent him from upping her in their banter.
Shutting the door behind her Vivi felt an exhilarating rush of adrenaline course through her.
Behind the closed doors, Doflamingo removed his glasses and looked up at the ceiling.
"She does have a point." he breathed noticing the turquoise hair of the ancient deity depicted above.
Well, at least she won't bore me fufu.
A/N: This chapter was a lot longer but I decided to split it up,so the next part will feature the dinner with Cobra and the reactions to the news of the DoflaVivi union around the world.
Thanks for reading.