Vivi didn't initially agree with Luffy's idea about avoiding Katorea and going straight for Crocodile. But now she is on board.
"So where are we going now Vivi?" Nami asked
"We are heading to Rainbase now. It is directly north of here and it's about a day's walk from here." Vivi said
"Is there water there?" Chopper asked
"Yes, despite the on-going chaos in the rest of the country. Rainbase is a vibrant casino-town."
"So there are towns that haven't been affected by the rebellion." Sanji said
Once they knew which way they had to go they continued on walking towards Rainbase.
"You don't get used to the heat." Usopp said
"Well, we've only been here a day." Sanji said
"Luffy." Vivi said
"Yeah?"
"Thanks, I wouldn't have made the decision to go directly to Rainbase."
"Oh, that. Once I kick Crocodile's ass, feed me until I explode."
"Sure, that's no problem."
In Katorea
"Why can't I join the rebles? I hate the King too!"
"Farafra, show him…" The big man removed part of his coat to show the child two terrible wounds. Part of his shoulder is missing and he lost his hand.
"This is what happens in battle." Kohza said "Do you want to see the hospital ward? The cemetery?"
"I'm not scared of that stuff!" Kappa said "I want to fight too! Things like injuries or death aren't going to scare me away!"
"If that's the case then go home, because we're of different opinions." Kohza said "All of us are scared…none of us want to fight."
"Then why the heck are you fighting?"
"The war's already begun. None of us want to fight! We have no choice but to fight." Kohza said "I SAID GO HOME! THIS IS NO PLACE FOR KIDS!
Kohza yelling finally scared the kid off. A little while later Kohza and many of the other rebels some of the other rebels were meeting to discuss their plans
"What's wrong Kohza? It's not like you to go venting your frustration at a little kid."
"I just couldn't handle how much he reminded me of myself when I was that age."
"Whatever you say."
"How did it go getting weapons?"
"We didn't get nearly as many as we needed. We couldn't get into the armory of the Royal Army."
"Send out a message to all of our forces. As soon as we have enough weapons we will launch an all-out attack on Alubarna."
The Royal Palace in Alubarna
"This isn't a fight between children we're dealing with here." Cobra said
"Your Majesty if we do not attack soon our kingdom may very well fall!" Chaka said
"So what if it does? Would you use that as an excuse to kill our people?" Cobra said "The country is its people. We should not be fighting the rebels. We should be fighting the nameless group who has been operating in the shadows."
"But we don't even have a clue as to who this shadow group is. And by time we do it may be too late. This shadow may envelope our entire kingdom. So please your majesty."
"Absolutely not. Get that through you head."
"Very well your majesty." Chaka said
A little while later Chaka and Pell were talking.
"Without going on the offensive all we can is wait and suppress whatever revolt pops up." Chaka
"It's difficult. We're already at our limits just trying to keep our own soldiers in line." Pell said "I wish Igaram would have told us what he was planning before he ran off."
"Commander Chaka, Commander Pell!" A royal guard said as he came running up to the two leaders of the Royal guard.
"What's going on?" Pell asked
"Carue has just returned to the palace!"
In King Cobra's chambers
While Chaka and Pell were looking over the letter from Vivi, Carue was guzzling down as much water he could as fast as he could.
"I was quite surprised myself. Who would have thought that a Shichibukai would be planning to take over the entire kingdom?"
"I can't believe this." Pell said
"I feel the same way. To think Igaram would give his life for Alabasta. But then again that's just the kind of man he was." Chaka said "Well done Carue. You fought bravely to deliver this letter to us. Carue did something happen to your left wing?"
Chaka went to un-wrap the bandage to take a look but Carue got defensive.
"Alright, I won't touch it." Chaka said
"At last we've found the true enemy. Have the army prepared to move out at once! We cannot allow Vivi's determination and Igaram's sacrifice go to waste."
"But your highness, Rainbase is too far away. The enemy may have no intention of fighting us." Pell said
"Forgive me your majesty, but the hearts of the people are with Crocodile more than they are with you." Chaka said
"Attacking Crocodile now would only incite the rebels further. If we send our troops to Rainbase Alubarna will be defenseless." Pell said
"I don't care if the rebels take the palace, as I've said before the people are the country. Crocodile must be stopped, even at the cost of our own lives. Only then will the people be safe. If we fight the rebels now, Crocodile will have the last laugh." Cobra said
"You're serious." Chaka said
"Chaka, summon my officers and devise a plan of attack. Pell, go on ahead and scout the enemies position. We march at dawn!"
16 hours later. The Straw hats have been walking through the desert. Baroque works operation utopia goes into action in one hour.
"This hasn't been fun." Usopp said
"No it hasn't, but we are so close to our destination." Nami said
"What are you complaining about? Eyelashes has been carrying you the whole way."
"Quiet Usopp." Zoro said " Vivi do you think there are members of Baroque works here?"
"I'm not sure. It may be safer to assume that there are some members here."
"Well, then we all have to be ready to fight." Zoro said
The Straw Hats made it to the city and stopped to rest.
"Are you sure it was a good idea to send Luffy to get water?" Nami asked
"It's never really a good idea to send Luffy to get anything. Hopefully he won't draw any attention to himself." Sanji said
"You know who you are talking about? Right?" Zoro asked
"Of course, but he insisted. I didn't want to waste any energy arguing with him." Nami said
"Just be ready to move. He's still an idiot. Just watch, the marines will be chasing him." Sanji said
Inside a bar Smoker and Tashigi are sitting around talking, waiting for something to happen.
"Why Rainbase Captain Smoker?"
"Call it a hunch, something seems off about this whole country."
"You think Crocodile is involved with that group of criminals?"
"Not sure but I know Princess Vivi and the Straw Hats are involved. I just haven't figured out how they are yet."
Outside the bar
"Are you sure this is a good idea?" Usopp asked
"Why not? We are only going to get water." Luffy said
"If I'm not mistaken isn't Smoker inside?"
"Haki getting better?"
"A little, but I think I remember this place."
"You are right. Smoker is inside but let's see how things play out."
"Fine. Let's go."
Usopp and Luffy walk into the bar and walk up to the counter.
"Five barrels of water." Usopp said
The owner of the bar brought out two barrels, one for Luffy and the other for Usopp. They began chugging the water.
"We have to wait for someone to make a move." Smoker said
Luffy finished downing some water and looked to his left.
"Oh, hey Smokey." Luffy said without any concern and went back to drinking some water. The owner of the bar put down the other three barrels and went to tend to the other customers.
Smoker looked to his right to see who was talking to him. When he recognized who was standing next to him and he stood up. "Mugiwara!"
"What are you doing here Smokey?"
"Looking for you. You are making my job too easy."
"Really, okay then. See you later." Luffy said before he grabbed two barrels and took off for the door with Usopp running close behind him.
Back inside the bar
"Tashigi call for backup, I'm going after them." Smoker took off
"Where to next?" Usopp asked
"We head back to everyone else."
"With Smoker chasing after us?"
"Sure, why not?" Luffy said
A few minutes later Usopp and Luffy had almost made it back to the crew. But of course the Marines were already chasing after them.
"What did I tell you?" Sanji said
"Like clock work." Nami said
"When did Chopper disappear?" Vivi asked
"A little while ago. Don't worry about him, he will be fine." Zoro said before the crew started running away from the Marines. "We will figure everything out later."
"They sure are good at running away." Smokers said.
"Running around Baroque Works is sure to notice us." Zoro said
"Vivi where do we have to go?" Luffy asked
"You see the building with the Bananagator on top?" Vivi said "That's rain dinners. Crocodile owns that building."
"Alright, everyone meet up there." They all split up and went in different directions to get away from the Marines.
Vivi and Zoro ended up running in the same direction. Vivi went ahead.
'I hope Zoro will be ok.' Vivi thought while she was running.
Zoro stopped to buy Vivi some time. He had no problem taking down random Marines. But then Tashigi caught up to her men.
"Well, shit." Zoro said
"Rorono Zoro, we meet again."
"I don't feel like fighting you right now." Zoro said before he took off. 'I have to find Usopp and Nami. They can take care of themselves. I'm sure Luffy will get caught again.'
Smoker ended up chasing Luffy
"What do you want Smokey?"
"To catch you. But I'm curious as to why Princess Vivi is traveling with you?"
"I'm sure you will figure it out eventually." Luffy said
Nami and Usopp went ahead, leaving Sanji to take care of a group of Marines. They ran past quite a few Baroques Works agents and finally made their way to the front of Rain Dinners. A few moments later Zoro caught up. Soon after Luffy made his way there but, he was followed by Smoker.
"Let's go inside." Luffy yelled as he ran in
In the secret room beneath Rain Dinners
"I just got word from the millions that Vivi and the pirates are in town. They are likely heading this way as we speak." Robin said
"Be sure to let our guests in when they get here." Crocodile said.
"Yes, sir." Robin said as she turned to walk away
Back upstairs Luffy, Zoro, Nami & Usopp made their way made their way across the bridge and through the front door of the casino. Soon after followed by Smoker who made his way past the bouncers at the front door.
"CROCODILE" Luffy yelled
"Sir, we have a problem. There are some strange people running around."
"Let the guards handle them, that's what we pay them for."
Three men placed themselves in the path of the pirates. "Are we going to have to use force to get you to leave this establishment?" The large guard in the center asked.
"I would like to see you try." Luffy said before he ran threw them sending them off in various directions before he continued running towards the back of the casino.
Robin made her way upstairs and went to talk with the man in charge on the floor. "Lead our guests to the V.I.P. room."
"Manager, are you sure?"
"Of course, it's on Crocodiles orders."
"Very well." He said as he walked over and pointed the pirates and smoker in the right direction.
"Looks like they are pointing us to the boss." Zoro said
"Makes this easy." Luffy said
'So, they are in league with Crocodile. But why make a scene like this instead of setting up a meeting and going to talk with him?' Smoker thought to himself. 'If I follow them they will lead me right to Crocodile.'
Luffy and crew made it through the big door that did in fact lead to a VIP room. But of course their were two options at the end of the hall. Luffy went right, because the sign said pirates. Even though this happened once before they would rather fall into the same trap than an all new one. They may have also ended up in the same trap..
"Well this stinks." Luffy said as he looked around at the dead end. "Who would build something like this?"
With all five gathered at the end of the hall, the floor opened up. Comically they all stood their for a second before they all went down into the darkness. When they got up from their fall they were in a cage lined with kairoseki.
"Well this sucks." Luffy said.
"Why would you follow the sign that said pirates?" Nami asked.
"Well, we aren't this guys VIP's so we weren't going that way."
"It really is pointless arguing with you isn't it?"
"So where are we?" Luffy said completely ignoring Nami
"For a moment I thought you were working with Crocodile." Smoker said. "But you wouldn't be foolish enough to get caught it a trap if you were."
"So what do we do now?" Luffy asked to no one in particular as he went to sit down on the bench that wrapped around three walls of the cell.
"We sit here and wait." Smoker said who was also sitting down on the bench.
"What are you still doing here Smokey?" Luffy asked
"I can't leave, if I could I would be gone by now. But this cage is preventing me from leaving. It's made out of Kairoseki and it emits the same energy as the ocean."
"So both you and Luffy can't touch the stuff." Zoro said
"This is a lot more civil that I anticipated. I figured you would be at each others throats or at the very least arguing with each other." Crocodile said from his chair
"Waste of time and energy." Luffy said
"That aside, what are you doing here Smoker? I am certain the government didn't send you here. They think that I am just here to protect this country. You are most likely doing whatever you please again aren't you?"
"I'm sure you know by now that I don't trust any of the Shichibukai."
"Of course, but I don't really care. I sent my partner to got fetch the guest of honor."
Around the same time as Luffy and company were making their way into the casino Vivi was fighting and had been cornered.
"You did well to beat so many of out comrades princess. But that should be expected considering you were a frontier agent." One of the millions said
'I can't die here. Everyone should be waiting for me at Rain Dinners.'Vivi thought
"Give up princess."
Just as the million said that Pell came flying in guns blazing he swooped down and picked Vivi up. They flew over to the roof of a building close by.
"Pell the Falcon, Alabastas strongest warrior." Another million said
"Princess Vivi I am glad to see that you are alright. We were worried about you."
"I'm fine Pell. I'm sure you read my letter."
"Yes we did. Your father was very happy to hear that you were ok."
"Forgive me, princess. But allow me to take out the rest of these people." Pell said before he transformed into a bird an took out all of the Baroque works millions. Moments later he flew back up to the roof and stood at the princesses side.
"Your flying never ceases to amaze me." Vivi said
Pell was going to respond but Robin had already made her way to the roof.
"Well, isn't this a touching reunion." Robin said
"Miss All Sunday." Vivi said
"Who is she?" Pell asked
"She is Crocodile's partner. They are behind what is happening to the country."
Hearing those words Pell went to attack Robin.
"Ceis fleur." Robin said and sprouted arms all over Pell's body. "Speed isn't effective against me." She said followed by "Clutch" The noise that followed was rather sickening.
"Pell!" Vivi said worried.
"Don't worry about him. He will be fine. Now why don't we go meet Crocodile." 'I'm sorry Vivi. I didn't want to do that. But I've got to keep up appearances. I have to play the bad guy for now. Hopefully someday you will be able to forgive me for what I have been apart of.'
Back at Rain Dinners
"I'm surprised that you can be so patient Luffy." Nami said
"Yeah, well this kairoseki doesn't help things."
"Would you wake up." Nami yelled and hit Zoro.
"Why shouldn't I nap. It's not like we can get out of here."
"I'm surprised. You aren't anything like what I have heard from my sources." Crocodile said. He sounded a little surprised.
"I've gotten good at being patient. When I fight you, you will see the side I'm sure you've heard about."
"If you get a chance to fight me you mean." Crocodile said
"CROCODILE" Vivi screamed from the top of the staircase
"Well, our special guest has arrived. Welcome Miss Wednesday or rather Nefertari Vivi princess of Alabasta. I'm surprised that you were able to make it as far as you did before my partner had to intervene. It's so difficult to find good help these days."
"I couldn't die, I had to make it here. I would do anything to protect my country."
"I wouldn't be so hasty princess. Your precious kingdom will fall."
While Crocodile was talking to Vivi, Luffy was talking to smoker. "Hey smokey." Luffy said
"What do you want straw hat?"
"You must be at least a little familiar with any powers he might have."
"Only a little. I know only what we get from reports."
"Feel like sharing what his powers might be?"
"He ate the suna suna no mi. A sand logia devil fruit."
"That's helpful. So he is like you then?"
Smoker only nodded. As they finished that little conversation Vivi took out her kujaku slasher and her kujaku string slasher. She ran down the stairs and went to attack Crocodile.
"Those aren't going to work." Smoker said
Vivi attacked Crocodile but he didn't even flinch. She took off his head as well as the top part of the chair he was sitting on but Crocodile was unharmed.
"Are you satisfied Miss Wednesday?" Crocodile said as he reformed around her. "Living in this country you should know the exact nature of my powers. Maybe I should turn you into a mummy, just to set an example." Crocodile said as he held Vivi by her throat.
"Don't hurt her you bastard. Just wait till I get out of here." Luffy said
"Such big talk coming from a rookie. You haven't been out on the sea, what a couple of months? You think you can fight me?" Crocodile dropped Vivi into a seat and climbed down off the table. "It's time for the party to begin."
In the capital of Alubarna, Chaka and the guards went to look for the king who had gone missing. In the port town of Nanohana Mr.2 used his powers to disguise himself as the king. He ordered the town be destroyed. His lackeys disguised as royal guards set parts of the town on fire. He kicked the kid who wanted to join Kohza. Mr. 1 and Miss Doublefinger somehow got a huge ship to crash into town. That ship just happened to be filled with weapons that would fuel the resistance. Kohza was shot. The fake Royal Army set fire to some buildings in town. The kid found out that the king was a fraud and was attacked by the Mr. 1 pair. Mr. 2, Mr. 1 and Miss Doublefinger met up and made their way out of the city. The citizens of the twon were left to put out the fires that had been started. News spread around the country quickly. The actions of the "king" only added fire to the rebellion. Chaka and the Royal guard in Alubarna will stand against the rebellion
Outside Rain Dinners
"Everyone must already be inside." Sanji said
"We still have work to do out here if that's the case." Chopper said
"Yeah, we have to deal with all of these flunkies."
Inside Rain Dinners
"By now all of the pieces should be falling into place."
"How can you do this?" Vivi asked
"Isn't it ironic that the love for one's country is what will destroy it in the end. All of the hassle I had to go through to get this far has been worth it. Do you know why I want to control your country so badly, Miss Wednesday?"
"How could I understand what's going on in your rotten head?" Vivi said clearly annoyed and angry that someone could care so little for the people of a country. Vivi knocked the chair over and fell to the floor.
"What do you think you're doing Miss Wednesday?"
"We can stop you! We will make it in time. We just have to go directly to Alubarna. We might be able to stop the rebellion if we get there first. I won't allow your plan to succeed."
"Really, well we were planning on going there as well. I have something I need to ask your father."
"What are you planning to do to my father?"
"You've got a decision to make. Which is more to you your people or your father?" Crocodile asked. "If you want come with us you are welcome to." Crocodile said as he pulled out a key from his pocket.
"A key?" Vivi said surprised
"Or do you want to save them?" He said as he was waving the key, taunting Vivi. That was before he stepped on the floor and a trap door opened up. He tossed the key through the open door. "Oops."
"How could you?"
"Go get it. You have to hurry. There are about 8 hours left until the killing begins. I don't think you will have the time to get to Alubarna from here. You would have to leave right now or else hundreds of thousands will die! It's up to do what you want to do. But to open the cage you would have to go into the bananawani pit to get it."
"Look at those things, they are huge." Nami said
"So this room is underwater." Zoro said
A bananawani swam into the glass enclosure and swallowed the key. Unbeknownst to the rest to some that is the wani that swallowed Mr. 3.
"What is going on Vivi?" Nami asked
"A bananawani just swallowed the key!" Vivi said shocked
"They will eat anything that I throw down there."
'That bastard.' Nami thought. 'Wait a second, He didn't toss the key to this cage down there. He could toss any key, we wouldn't know the difference.'
"Well then, we're going to be taking out leave now." Crocodile said "In one hour this room will flood and it will become a part of the Rainbase lake. What do you do princess? Save your citizens or these worthless pirates?"
"All of this was too easy. There are so many idiots in this country. Those young rebels even that old man digging those holes in Yuba?
"You did that didn't you? To the old man?"
"I take it you know who I am talking about? He's a stupid old geezer who keeps trying to revive that oasis. It's hilarious, he thinks he can overcome the sandstorms. Tell me Straw Hat, do you think sandstorms can hit the same town successfully so many times?" Crocodile said as he created a small sandstorm in his hand.
"I won't let you get away with that." Luffy said
Crocodile began to walk down the underwater corridor that leads away from the secret room. Robin looked back at her future crew. She turned away and followed Crocodile. As they walked away water started to flow into the room.
Vivi was so frustrated and upset. She was powerless to stop Crocodile whether or not she wanted to accept that fact.
"Vivi, get up." Nami said
"Vivi, we need your help. Don't worry about him for now." Luffy said "You need to get us out of here."
"Luffy-san" Vivi stood up and focused herself.
"I will kick his ass when we get out of here."
"Don't get too conceited little man." Crocodile said
"We will just have to see about that." Luffy said
A bananawani came up through a hatch in the floor in front of Crocodile and Robin.
"If your going to abandon them, now's the time to do so Miss Wednesday. You want to stop the rebellion right?"
The wani walked forward and into the room.
"It's enormous." Vivi said
"Run Vivi, you can't fight it." Usopp said
"Look outside. They are all lining up."
"It looks like you are going to try and fight them. I doubt you could kill any of them. The key will be in one of their stomachs."
The wani went to attack Vivi but she was able to get away from the huge jaws. The wani took a large chunk out of the stairs.
Outside Rain Dinners, Sanji and Chopper had taken care of all of the millions except for one.
"What are we going to do with him?" Chopper asked
"We need him for my plan."
"What are you going to have me do?"
"I'm gonna call your boss. Part of the way through I will act like you shot me. You tell him where we are."
Back inside Rain Dinners
Crocodile and Robin had already turned to leave but then the Ko Den Den Mushi rang. The bananawani was about to eat Vivi but stopped. It turned it's attention to the sound coming from down the corridor.
"Hello, Hello." Sanji said "Can you hear me?" Sanji said
"I can hear you. You're one of the millions aren't you?" Robin said.
"Is this getting through? I haven't used one of these Ko Den Den Mushi's before."
"What is it?" Robin said
"Hey, spit out already! What happened?"
"Oh, I've heard this voice before. Hey, thanks for calling, this is the shitty restaurant."
"Shitty restaurant?"
"It sounds like you remember. I'm flattered."
"All of the Straw Hat pirates should be locked in that cage. Does that mean there is more?" Crocodile said
"It's Sanji." Usopp whispered to the others in the cage.
"Sanji-san and Tony-kun are still outside." Vivi said
"Who the hell are you?"
"Me? You can call me Mr. Prince."
"I see, Mr. Prince. Where are you?"
"Now why would I tell you that? If I tell you that you'll just come to kill me. Actually, whether you can or not remains to be seen. Beside I won't give out a lot of information. I'm not an idiot like you Mr. 0." Crocodile was not amused at that last comment.
"Mr. Prince, come save us." Usopp yelled. "We've been captured!"
"Sounds like you have my crew. I guess I just… Bang! A gun shot rang out" Sanji stopped talking.
Just before he stopped talking Sanji signaled Chopper. He discharged one bullet harmlessly into the water nearby.
Back inside Rain Dinners.
"Mr. Prince." Usopp yelled
Back outside Sanji was still holding on to the million. He signaled him to talk.
"Hello, What should we do with this weirdo?"
"Where are you? Report your location."
"Yes, sir. I am at the front gate of the casino called Rain Dinners in Rainbase." Robin hung up the Ko Den Den Mushi.
Outside of Rain Dinners
"Your acting was very believable. Thanks for that." Sanji said
"Are you going to let me go?"
"No sir." Sanji said before he knocked out the already beat up million.
"Their boss will be coming outside pretty soon. You know what to do right Chopper?"
"Yeah, I know what to do."
"Make sure you lose him."
"No problem. Don't you have somewhere you need to be?"
"You're right. Just be careful. It looks like more of their friends have shown up."
Chopper and Sanji went their separate ways. Chopper made his way across the bridge and announced himself as Mr. Prince. He took care of any of the remaining millions that were still across the bridge outside the casino.
Back inside the secret room
"That idiot, he better be ok." Nami said
"Kuhahahaha! Very well, let's go to the front gate.
"Are you sure the millions still don't know who their boss is?" Robin said
"I'm not going as the boss of Baroque Works. No one but the numbered agents knows who we are. What would be so odd about Crocodile, the owner of the casino showing his face on the floor?" Crocodile said
Vivi tried to escape up the stairs but didn't get very far. Crocodile used his powers to extend his arm to grab Vivi with his hook.
"Don't think you will be able to get away so easily Miss Wednesday."
Crocodile and Robin made their way up what remained of the stairs. "If you love your friends so much, then you can die with them. This room is going to flood soon." Crocodile and Robin made their way through the doors and closed them.
"That bastard." Luffy said
Crocodile walked through the V.I.P. doors and onto the floor of the casino. The people were surprised but happy to see him. He made his way through the casino and outside.
"What the hell happened?" Crocodile asked annoyed and surprised.
"With what Pell the Falcon did, all of the millions in town have been wiped out." Robin said
"What happened?"
"This guy called himself Mr. Prince!"
'They didn't capture him?' Crocodile thought. "Where did he go?"
"He headed south through town."
"Just now?" Crocodile said. He looked around. Chopper was "hiding" next to a building not far from where Crocodile was standing. "There…piece of shit. Don't think you can get away from me."
"Why don't you let him go?"
"Be silent, he killed all of my employees. I will not be humiliated like this!" Crocodile said as he used his powers to propel himself towards the person he believes to be Mr. Prince.
Around the same time Crocodile was making his way through his casino the bananawani was about to attack Vivi. She was able to hurt the wani and dodge its bite. She managed to make her way over the bananagator and up onto the stairs.
"She got away." Nami said
One more bite from the gator destroyed more of the stairs and also broke some windows allowing more water to start flowing in.
While Crocodile was looking to find Mr. Prince, Vivi was looking to get out of that room. "I will be back, I'm going to find help. So just wait a little longer."
Outside the casino, Sanji destroyed the bridge to Rain Dinners. The people inside were panicking. All they felt was a rumble. But not long after they found out what had happened to their only into and out of the casino.
"What caused it to fall?" One person inside the casino asked.
Back outside Robin heared the bridge fall into the water. 'Go get our crew our of their Sanji-san.' Robin thought. Back inside Vivi made her way up to the VIP doorway.
"The bridge fell?" Vivi said surprised. She started running towards the door. "I can't get outside?"
"No, it's not that you can't get outside. Baroque Works can't get inside. All according to plan." Sanji said as he was sitting at slot machine.
"Sanji-san." Vivi said surpised but that turned into joy as she realized that help had already arrived.
"Chopper is running through town as a decoy. We better hurry, the rebellions started. Just tell me where to go, princess."
"Tony-kun is a decoy?" Vivi asked
"Yeah, he'll be fine. Let's hurry, Vivi-chan. Tell me what's going on."
"Okay. But Sanji-san didn't you get shot?"
"Who me?
In town Crocodile was still looking for Mr. Prince. Chopper had managed to get away from Crocodile long enough to transform into his brain point. To Crocodile he seemingly disappeared.
"Where are you hiding Mr. Prince? I will find you and I will kill you."
The secret room beneath rain dinners continued to fill up with water. The Bananagator turned it's attention to the people in the cage. Luffy returned to sitting on the bench with smoker. Nami started yelling at the gator. She was trying to provoke it to attack the cage. It worked. But the kairoseki destroyed its teeth.
"How much do you know about Crocodile's partner?" Smoker asked
"Nothing really." Nami said "Why?"
"She's been on the run from the World Government for 20 years. The bounty on her head is more than 70 million beri. She is bad news. This is no longer just about the take over of a single country. With her involved this is something that could envelope the whole world."
"The whole world?" Usopp asked "What has she done?"
While they were talking Sanji and Vivi made their way through the VIP doors and into the secret room.
"Anti-manner kick course." Was all they heard before the bananagator was sent into the air. The gator coughed up a lot of rubble from the stairs it had eaten. "Were you guys waiting long?"
"Great job Vivi." Luffy said
Sanji was dancing like an idiot. "Stop screwing around you swirly bastard and find the key."
His focus quickly changed to the gators that had made their way up into the secret room. "Would you look at all of them. How do you cook bananawani? What would they taste good with? Either way, bring on you damn bananas. I have to knock some manners into assholes who would harma a lady."
"We don't have time to play around. Just kick their asses." Usopp said
"Get the third one that entered the room." Smoker said
"How can you tell?"
"Your ears are for decoration aren't they?"
"The growl is the same one that ate the key."
Sanji went to attack that gator but instead of a key they got something much better. Mr. 3 had encased himself in a wax ball so he would be safe and not get digested.
"What the hell is that?"
A few seconds later Mr. 3 emerged from the wax ball yelling "Freedom." He saw the water at his feet and yelled, "It's a miracle."
"It's him." Zoro said
"Mr. 3, why were you inside the bananagator's stomach?" Vivi asked
Mr. 3 wasn't paying attention. He was too busy drinking all the water he could. "I am revived. I thought I was a goner." He continued talking to himself.
He looked around and saw that a key had stuck to his wax ball. He continued looking around to find out his surroundings. He quickly figured out what was going on.
"I have grasped your plight. I guess you want this key?" Mr. 3 asked. "Why don't you go find it." Mr. 3 tossed the key into the water.
"Don't bother looking for the key Sanji." Usopp said. "He ate the doru doru no mi. He should be able to make a new key for the lock."
"Understood." Sanji said. "Now do you understand?" Sanji asked Mr. 3.
"Why would I help you?" He asked
Sanji kicked his ass just enough to understand that he was no match and had no chances of getting away.
"Fine." Mr. 3 said as he used his powers to make a key that would work within the lock. With a turn the key it was unlocked and the door opened.
"Thanks, now have a nice nap candle man." Sanji said before he kicked him in the face knocking him out.
Luffy, Zoro, Nami, Smoker and Usopp walked through the door.
"Let's go, we don't have much time. The tunnel should lead to Alubarna but there are too many bananagators to fight." Vivi said before she turned to look at what happened while she was thinking of a plan. Luffy and Zoro beat up the remaining gators.
"That was hardly a warm up." Luffy said
Vivi looked depressed. "I could barley do anything against one. They knocked out the rest effortlessly."
"Don't try and compare yourself to them. The are monsters." Usopp said
"You dumbasses." Nami yelled. "Your fighting caused the wall to crack. Water is going to start rushing in even faster now."
Seconds later they were engulfed in a torrent of water. They had to act very quickly or Luffy would drown. Sanji went after Luffy, Zoro after Smoker, Usopp, Nami and Vivi swam up to the surface under their own power.
Around the time the Straw Hats are making their way out of the water Crocodile and Robin have made their way back into the casino. They headed right for the room that would likely be underwater by now.
"He destroyed the bridge to buy them time. There must still be more of them out there." Crocodile said
"Was that to sneak past us to get to the room?" Robin asked
"Probably, but it won't work. Even if they get the key that was swallowed by the gator the cage won't open because I have the real key right here."
"You are an evil man." Robin said kind of joking.
"It's time I kill those runts myself." Crocodile said as he opened the double door. What he saw angered him. All of his gators were beaten, the cage door was open and Mr. 3 was floating on the water with a note on his chest reading "See you later, shitty gator. Mr. Prince." Crocodile dropped the key he had been so smug about holding onto just moments earlier. They quickly departed to the edge of town to find the Straw Hats.
Back with the Straw Hats
"Nami-san." Sanji said "Do you still have that perfume you bought back in Nanohana?"
"Yeah, why?"
"Put it on."
Smoker coughed up any water he swallowed and was quickly on the offensive. "Why did you save me Roronoa Zoro?"
"I was only following captain's orders. You don't have to thank me okay. It was just on one of his whims."
"Then I assume you don't have any complaints if I have to complete my duties as a member of the Marines?"
"This is what we get for saving a Marine." Sanji said.
A short distance away the Marines have gathered and are getting ready to pursue the Straw Hats.
Luffy woke up after he spat up all of the water he had swallowed.
"Luffy, let's get out of here." Usopp said
"Go." Smoker said "Only this one time will I let you get away. The next time we meet you're a dead man. Remember that Straw Hat Luffy."
"There they are! The Straw Hat crew!" A marine said
The rest of the crew had already started running away. "Hurry the marines are coming! Which way to Alubarna?" Sanji asked
"What are you doing Luffy?"
"Right, you guys go ahead I will catch up."
"Yeah, ok." Zoro said before he took off."
"You know, you're not too bad Smokey." Luffy said
"Get the hell outta here." Smoker said going to attack Luffy. Luffy ran off to catch up with his friends.
"Hurry, they're getting away." A marine said
"Captain! Aren't you going to chase them?" Another marine asked
"No, I'm tired."
"Tired, sir?"
"Call the men back who ran after them. They aren't going to be able to catch them. Also call headquarters. Tell them to send all Marine ships in the vicinity straight to Alabasta."
"Call for reinforcements? But I don't think the higher ups will let them go fight such a small number of pirates."
"Since when did I listen to my superiors' opinions."
"Yes, sir. Right away."
Back with the Straw Hats
"I can smell Nami's perfume. The scent is getting stronger. She is that way." Chopper said
"Where is Chopper?" Usopp asked
"He's fine. Just look ahead."
Chopper and Eyelashes found a moving crab to transport them across the desert.
"There they are." Chopper said
"That thing will give us a ride?" Luffy asked
"He's one of eyelash's friends."
"So he's a pervert too." Zoro said
"Let's get on and head for Alubarna. We can't waste any more time here." Vivi said
Everyone climbed onto the large moving crab and they took off. Soon after they left Crocodile's hook appeared. He went to grab Vivi but Luffy got in the way and left himself be pulled towards Crocodile.
"You guys go on ahead. I'll be fine by myself. Just make sure you get there and get Vivi to the palace."
"Chopper head straight for Alubarna." Zoro said
"But what about Luffy-san?" Vivi asked. She was the only one who was actually visibly nervous at the thought of Luffy going after a Shichibukai by himself.
"You've seen the things he can do. You can only imagine what you haven't seen. Guys like this are no problem for Luffy." Nami said
"Have some faith in Luffy." Zoro said "He will be fine."
"Besides, don't we have something else to worry about right now?" Sanji asked
"We have to worry about the clash between the Rebels and the Royal Army." Nami said
"We have to get you back to Alubarna. It doesn't matter what happens to us." Zoro said
"The marimo is right. Years ago you left your country to fight against an organization you knew nothing about. However you're not fighting by yourself anymore." Sanji said as he walked past Vivi after watching Luffy fly off to fight Crocodile.
"Luffy-san. We'll be waiting for you in Alubarna!" Vivi yelled.
"See you there." Luffy yelled as he was pulled toward Crocodile.
"So, the princess ran out on us." Crocodile said "So be it. The agents in Alubarna should be done with their duties soon. Call them." Crocodile said to Robin "I think you have gotten in a little over your head Straw Hat Luffy."
"She's so weak but she tries to save everything she can. She can't bear to abandon anything so she's always in pain. She wants the rebellion to end without anyone dying."
"Without anyone dying?" Crocodile said "There are many weak, sentimental fools like that. They don't know anything about a real fight. You agree with me don't you?"
"I agree, but as long as you're in this country she will fight you to her grave. That's why I'm going to stop you right here."
"Kuhahahaha! That's ridiculous. I will make an example out of you. Those who conspire with others will die because of it."
"You really are an idiot, aren't you?"
"Ahahaha" Robin started laughing
"What's so funny?" Crocodile said annoyed. "Do you want to die as well Nico Robin?"
"Do as you wish. But what happened to your promise of not calling me by that name?" Robin said before she started to walk away.
"Where are you going?"
"I'm going ahead to Alubarna."
"Crazy woman." Crocodile said before he threw an hourglass at Luffy's feet. "I've only got three minutes. After that I won't have time to play with you anymore."
"Fine by me." Luffy said before he started to run at Crocodile. As he was running he wound up and sent his right arm flying towards Crocodile. "Gomu Gomu no Pistol."
Crocodile easily evaded the attack. He didn't even have to turn into sand he simply dodged it by bending down slightly. Crocodile countered by trying to attack Luffy with his hook but he dodged it just as easily.
"Gomu Gomu no Stamp." Luffy said before he kicked Crocodile. But his foot went clean through him. Luffy landed on the ground and dusted his shorts off. "That's not going to work."
"Of course it's not going to work Straw Hat. You can't hit me. Your puny attacks will never affect a logia fruit user."
"Rifle" Luffy said as he brought his fist back and still nothing.
"Did you expect that to work?" Crocodile asked. The tone in his voice was that of pure boredom.
"You won't hit me."
"I'm pretty sure I can hit you."
"You can keep telling yourself that. But you should know that we are in completely different leagues."
"You're right. We are in different leagues."
"Desert Spada" Crocodile said as he sent a blade of sand through the ground towards Luffy. But Luffy was fast enough to get out of the way.
"That was too close for comfort." Luffy said.
"That would have cleaved you in two if you didn't get out of the way."
"Yeah, no shit. Look at the ground."
"Why do you struggle? You agreed with me that there is a huge gap in our strength, yet you still try to attack me."
"Just because there is a gap now doesn't mean that will always be there. It also doesn't mean that you are superior to me."
"Say whatever you want if you think it will help. You haven't shown me anything to make me believe that's true. It seem like you may have only scratched the surface with you devil fruit powers. They can be very strong in battle depending on how you use and train them. Most idiots would be content to merely possess a devil fruit. But I've honed my powers to perfection!"
"I saw what you did to one of your lackeys. It certainly looks like you have."
"Are you mocking me? I've had my fruit for over two decades."
"No." Luffy said as he avoided another one of Crocodiles attacks.
"I will make you wish you never opposed me." Crocodile said. "Desert Girasole" The sand around Luffy began to flow down. "Beneath us is an underground river, the sand is being dragged into it. This is handy for making people disappear. No coffin necessary. I just have to wait for the sand to swallow you whole."
"I won't let you bury me alive." Luffy said as he was trying to run away from the center of the sinking quicksand. "Gomu Gomu no Bazooka." Luffy said as he hit the ground and propelled himself into the air and in front of Crocodile.
"That is almost impressive." Crocodile said, his tone very sarcastic.
"I will never hit you like this. I'm going to have to go faster than you can turn into sand."
"You think that's possible?"
"Not really sure, haven't had a chance to try this against a logia user."
"You seriously think you will be able to hit me?" Crocodile asked
Luffy pumped the blood in his arm "Gear Second" he said as he stood ready to attack.
"Gear Second? Why the hell is there steam coming from your arm?"
"Jet Pistol" Luffy said as he let a punch fly.
Unfortunately punch sailed clean through Crocodile.*
"That is quite the technique you have there. Too bad it still didn't work. That might have hurt if you could've only connected." Crocodile said. "Well would you look at that time's up." He said. "Sables" a small sandstorm formed in his hand. It quickly expanded and grew into a sandstorm that would be formidable in this climate.
Some distance away, across the desert.
Vivi had spent most of her time looking back towards Rainbase. That was when she noticed a sandstorm appear that reached up into the sky. "There's another sandstorm above Rain Base." Vivi said
"Luffy" Nami said. No one else said anything. They were just thinking about last time. Crocodile said he killed Luffy when he stayed behind. But that wasn't the case and it shouldn't be this time.
Back with Luffy and Crocodile
"You are of no threat to me, you have tried and failed to hurt me. I could kill you but that wouldn't be any fun." Crocodile looked up to his most recent creation. "The winds always blow south in this country. If this one travels south and matures where do you think it will hit?"
"Shit." Luffy said as he understood what was going to happen.
"It seems like you're not that stupid after all. If you were thinking Yuba, you would be correct."
Luffy just sat down in the sand and he crossed his arms and let his hat fall to cover his eyes. 'He won't stop it and I can't. Sorry about this old man. I need Crocodile to be exposed as the leader of Baroque Works. I hope you will be alright.'
"I'm not sure what to think about this. You were so quiet in that cage earlier. It seems like you accept what is going to happen?"
"I can't do anything against that storm and you won't stop it. It's going to go where ever it wants."
"There are so many rookies on the Grand Line. Yet you intrigue me. You act so much like them and yet at the same time so much different. You are very reckless but also calculating. I wonder why that is?"
Luffy just shrugged his shoulders.
"I don't spare many people. Count yourself lucky and don't bother coming after me." Crocodile said as he began to walk away. "If you do it will be the last mistake you ever make." Crocodile turned into sand and disappeared.
Around the same time as Crocodile turned into sand and left Luffy alone.
"What the hell are you doing Zoro?" Nami asked as Eyelashes was somehow balancing on one of Zoro's swords.
"Have to keep busy."
"Are you worried about Luffy?"
"I'm not. I know Luffy will kick his ass."
"I can't believe you two haven't started fighting yet." Nami said
"As much as I hate to say it I agree with the marimo. Luffy will be fine. We have no reason to worry."
"You have so much faith in Luffy-san." Vivi said
"Of course we do. He told us he would meet us there. It may take the idiot extra time but he will get there and take care of what he has to. He runs on his own clock but he always gets where he has to be when he has to be there." Sanji said
Nami nodded. "Yeah, he will meet us there but not before one of us gets into trouble."
Back with Luffy
Sometime after Crocodile had disappeared Luffy was still sitting in the sand with his hat still covering his eyes.
"Last time I had to pull you out of the sand. You had a hole in your chest, you were covered in blood and the first word I heard out of your mouth was meat." Robin said as she walked back towards Luffy.
"Robin, you remember?" Luffy asked
"Of course captain."
"When did you…?"
"Get my memories back?" Robin asked, completing Luffy's thought. "It was just after you were sailing away from Whisky Peak. Nami mentioned my mother's journal. All of them came flooding back to me." Robin said
"I'm sorry Robin." Luffy said bowing to Robin.
"What are you doing? You shouldn't be bowing to me." Robin said before Luffy got up off the ground.
"How else am I going to apologize?"
"Apologize? When have you ever apologized for anything?"
Luffy thought about that for too long before Robin interjected.
"You almost never apologize for anything you do, regardless of how stupid or reckless it is."
"I know, but I have had plenty of time to think everything over. I thought I should apologize to you first. So much is going to happen. My actions, as selfish as they were didn't affect just me they affect all of my friends. I don't really know everyone's past but still their isn't a night I don't think about, well think about a lot."
"Just stop right there." Robin said. "Am I angry that you did something reckless and are making us relive our pasts? Yes I am. However I wouldn't have my memories if I wasn't willing to forgive you. I'm sure the rest of the crew feels the same way. We wouldn't have done what we did if we didn't care about you."
"I appreciate that Robin." Luffy said as he stood up. "What's next?"
"I head to Alubarna. An injured Pell the falcon should be not too far away by now."
"You didn't hurt him to bad? Just enough to be convincing."
"Robin." Luffy said in a kind of agitated voice.
"Can't go blowing my cover now." Robin said. "I will see you again in Alubarna. But when this is all over I will meet you at the Going Merry."
"See you there." Luffy said before he stood there with his big smile.
They didn't say anything else before Robin walked away. However she didn't make it very far far before Pell hobbled towards her.
"Hold it right there Miss All Sunday." He said "Now that I understand your powers I will not be beaten so easily."
Robin stopped to turn back to look at Luffy and Pell. Her demeanor changed drastically. "Look at you, you could not even get close to me last time. What do you think you will do this time? Instead of that why don't you go get patched up. I'm sure you and the boy have mush to discuss. He is the young knight who safely escorted your princess home. Besides your princess is safe, she is with his friends. They should be on their way to Alubarna right now." Robin said as she got on the F-wani and disappeared into the horizon.
Listening to what Miss All Sunday said brought Pell to his knees. He had been wondering how he was going to protect princess Vivi. Was the answer to all of his problem right next to him? The answer is yes but, he didn't know that.
Sometime later
Igaram had made his way to Nanohana and was walking through town. The rebels were heading for Alubarna. Crocodile's most recent sand storm had descended upon Yuba. The Straw Hats had made it to the Sandora River and had attempted to cross it, It failed miserably. They encountered a Sandroa Catfish which loves to eat humans. Another thing Vivi failed to mention. Usopp was ready with boaty banana pop greens in case the kung fu dugongs didn't show up. But they did and they took out the fish rather easily. They turned it into a raft and sailed across the river until they made it to the other side.
"Thanks." Vivi said and the dugongs jumped back into the river and swam away.
"What the hell do we do now?" Zoro asked
Off in the distance they saw something coming closer. In just a few minutes the Super spot billed duck squad was standing in front of the group.
"Carue." Vivi said as she went over to hug her duck.
"Well we found our ride." Sanji said.
Back to the Future Straw Hats
Luffy and Nami both fell asleep after their first time together. Much to Luffy's surprise a bed had mysteriously appeared in the middle of the cavern. Now one thing about this cave, It's not just any cave. The first time the crew opened the door to this room within the island of Raftel, light dials turned on throughout the room. Those dials placed strategically so as not to blind whoever would one day find this place. The light dials made the gold in the room shine brilliantly. This made for the perfect place for Nami to have her first time with the man she only recently accepted she had feelings for.
Nami was the first to wake up from her nap. She was beyond confused when she found herself in a luxurious bed.'What the hell!' she thought to herself. 'Where did this bed come from?' While she was curious about the bed, her mind began to wander and she began to think about what happened earlier. "Let's see. The last thing I remember was Luffy…" She paused. Her face turned a bright red after she remembered what she said and what they did together. But more specifically what Luffy had done to her. "How long ago was that?" She asked herself. "There is no way to tell how much time has passed in here. But that was definitely worth the wait."
Up until that point she didn't realize the position she was in. Luffy was behind her. Her ass had been up against his crotch the whole time she had been sleeping. Luffy had pulled her so close he had his arm across her side and had his hand resting on her flat stomach. She didn't mind how she found herself when she woke up. She had never been so comfortable. That was when Luffy started to stir.
"Have a nice nap my pirate king?"
"I did my pirate queen, I'm glad I was able to come back." Luffy let go of Nami so she could turn to face him.
"I… did you just call me your pirate queen?"
"Of course, I couldn't imagine having anyone else by my side. I think going through this whole ordeal we figured out our feelings for each other."
"I think you're right." Nami said before she pulled Luffy's head in between her breasts. "I couldn't imagine anyone else by my side either. You better treat me like your queen." Luffy couldn't say anything he just nodded before Nami let go of his neck and he freed himself from between her large breasts.
"I would but I don't know how to do that."
"Don't worry. Things won't change that much while we are on deck. I think things are going to be interesting when we are alone for quite some time."
"You mean doing more sex stuff?" Luffy asked "I think I can do that. But I don't really know what I am doing. With as my partner I would be more than willing to learn."
"Hey, don't think that I know that much more than you. This is all new to me as well."
"We will be learning as we go. I may or may not take more time to figure things out. Guess we will just have to see."
"If last night was any indication I don't think you will have any problems."
"Last night? Were we in here that long?"
"You know, I'm not really sure. I am to comfortable to even bother getting out of bed." Saying that last word triggered something in her brain. The gears started turning and she finally recalled her first thought after she woke up. "Where the hell did this bed come from?" She said. In her voice was a mixture of irritation and disgust that someone was watching her precious first time.
"It must have been that ghost." Nami said
"That's what I figured. But you had fallen asleep and I was too tired to care where this came from."
"That means he used his powers to watch us."
"I did not." A voice from the lamp said as it was hopping closer to the pair in bed.
"Then how did you know where to put a bed?" She asked
"Ok, I was watching. You two put on a good show."
"Pervert." Both Nami and Luffy said
"You're not wrong." The ghost said. "Can I come out?"
"NO" they both yelled before he materialized from the opening in the front of the lamp any way.
"What the hell are you doing?" Nami asked, very obviously pissed off.
"What, I already saw everything."
"Fine, whatever just turn around while I get dressed."
"Why?"
"Why? Because it will make me feel better you pervert."
"Fine. Would some new clothes help?"
Nami didn't have time to say anything before the ghost snapped his fingers and she saw little clouds of smoke from around the room. With the second snap there were two clean outfits on the bed. One set for Nami and one set for Luffy. They quickly put on their new clothes and stood together.
"Alright, turn around." Nami said
"How did you get out of the lamp?" Luffy asked
"I can come and go as I please once someone rubs the lamp. When, if I fulfill your third wish I will be forcibly sucked back into the lamp to await someone else to come and find it."
"That's awful."
"It's not so bad. I know what's going on around the world at all times."
"PERVERT."
"Not like that, just current events as a whole. It would take way to much power to spy on everyone while they have sex."
"Okay, I have had enough." Nami said "No more talk about my or anyone else's sex lives."
"Fine. I won't bring it up anymore."
"So what now?" Luffy asked
"While, I technically granted what would equal three wishes your friend never said I wish for what I did. I guess you have two more."
That was when the ko den den mushi rang. "Hello, you guys done in there?" Franky asked
Nami picked up the den den mushi she forgot she still had and started talking. "Yeah, we are all done. What is going on outside?"
"Not a hell of a lot. I was able to get some work done but other than that it's been quiet."
"Is the crew with you?"
"Yeah, they are here. What's up?"
"Do any of you have any more wishes?"
"Hold on."
Everyone thought for a minute but the answer was a resounding no.
"They would be great to use but they are more trouble than they are worth." Usopp said
"So what happens now? We don't really need any more wishes. Even if we did want to use them could you?"
"Maybe, not really sure. Before the Roger Pirates in all the centuries I have been here no one has found this place. I won't know who will find this place next."
"Can't you look into the future?" Nami asked
"That wouldn't be any fun."
"Alright then." Nami said before she talked into the ko den den mushi. "I want everyone to come down here. After that we can go." Nami said
Not long after that the remaining Straw Hats made their way through the cave and into the treasure room. Jinbe was with them. This was his first time in here and he was speechless. It truly was a sight to behold. Jinbe had been meeting with the division commanders.
"This place is amazing. The only other treasure in the world that could remotely compare to this is the treasure possessed by the Happo Navy." Jinbe said
"Why did you want everyone to come down here?" Usopp asked
"I thought the spirit could tell us about this place and how he ended up here."
"I thought he didn't remember." Sanji said
"I don't remember everything but I think I remember enough."
*I decided for this story at least that no matter how fast an attack is it won't hit a logia without haki. It doesn't matter how fast they can react. The only exception to this particular rule of mine is Eneru. Luffy had and will have no trouble hitting Eneru without haki because Luffy's body doesn't conduct electricity.
TheHeartsPath: Hope this was enjoyable
blackfirekinkoncor: I don't think any of the crew will be doing what Luffy did. I hope to make the future islands interesting. They should be crazy enough to feel realistic in the New World. Any changes that are made in the past won't effect the crew in the future and they won't have any knowledge of it happening.
ShadowHunter19288: Won't be doing that.
Xerzo LotCN: It was not directed at you. There will be limes and more lemons. It will end like it should. I hope to have some fun with Skypiea.
Tsukino Aisuru: Was the sexy time stuff good? Do you happen to recall any of your thoughts from before that?
Tonlor: Hopefully the lemons were enjoyable.
midnightscar17: Way too long between updates. Hope this was good.
Chrisfragger: It's not going to be a porn fic. There will be stuff of that nature. It won't be in every chapter.
gamelover41592: Thanks, hope you like at least part of this.