Authors Disclaimer: I do not own One Piece. Hey everyone sorry for the long update and such from me, it is summer time and those who knows I don't do very well in the summer season when it comes to writing stories or updating my fanfics lol.
But another reason for at least this story, I haven't found time or place to get it updated, all the while having a hard time doing Syrup islands arc with Usopp. Without it being exactly 1-1 to the anime and manga chapters. That will work with what I am going for and the changes I had made, granted- Kuina and Bellemere being there is good changes, but I didn't want everyone to...well exist just to be there and such, while having them be involved and the likes. Especially considering how many factors I am going through for this chapter too lol.
Also I enjoy how I did the realtionship and interactions between Usopp and the girl who name escapes me right now, though I can easily scroll down and check. But already had to edit this like four times to properly get the fonts and such. But yeah, like how I did the relationship of the two and their interaction with each other with Usopp telling her his adventures and whatnot. Which no offense to Oda and such, but I...never understood the whle ordeal of the girl not trusting Usopp at all when he discovered about Kuros and whatnot. I mean...the only interactions she had was her butlers and Usopp, and who knows how long Usopp has been visiting her, telling her stories, talking to her and whatnot. That I find it hard to believe she wouldn't trust him at all or believe him- I mean yeah, she knows his stories aren't real, but she always smiles and is happy of him telling her stories and whatnot. So why not believe him about Kuros? Eh might just be me.
Anyway hope you all enjoy and have fun.
Xxx
Chapter 9: The Great Captain Usopp!
On the peaceful island called Syrup island, lives a village that has been at peace for a very long time. No pirates raiding, attacking or hunting down any treasures that could or might not be on said island. Yes, it is a very peaceful place to live in. Nothing much goes on or any excitement happening on the island. Villagers were just enjoying and relaxing within their nice and comfortable village without much care in the world.
"The pirates are coming, the pirates coming!" A loud voice echoing out in the town. Showing a young man with frizzled and wild looking black hair, having quite the long nose to boot. "The Pirates are coming, the pirates are coming!" He continued on as he ran down the streets of the village. Doing the usual routine of shouting those words every once per day- it irritates the villagers to no end, as they stare and glare out towards the young man through their windows and field work. Some just shaking their heads and others just slamming their doors shut or window shutters shut. "The Pirates are coming, the pirates are coming!" Running and screaming to the high heavens of the town, his yellow bandanna tightly wrapped around his head, wearing brown jean like overalls and brown looking boots.
This young man's name is Usopp- his father Yasupp is a world famous pirate and warrior who is also a crewmate to Shanks, the red-haired pirate and role model of Luffy D' Monkey. His father had left his home a long time ago when Usopp was only just a child. Leaving him and his sickly mother behind- never have visited or came back to check over them. Months had passed and the young man waited for when his father would have returned, only to be disappointed when that case never happened. Usopp had become an orphan months later, when his mother sickness got the best of her and had to leave this world, having to leave her son behind and wishes he does not think illy of his father or her leaving their only son behind.
To tell Usopp to be brave like a true warrior and always strive to move forward. And to make sure to watch over the village in case his father ever one day came back. Those were her last words before passing away and ever since then, the young boy had continued running and shouting out throughout the village of Pirates are coming- a defense mechanism he had inherited from being alone or to keep his mother's spirit high before passing away. And still continues doing it till this day. Was it annoying? Some might say it is, but a lot of the villagers deep down understood or sympathized with Usopp. But that was only when he was young and a child, nowadays- with the whole incident with Jolly D Roger passing? A new era of pirates is upon them and danger could happen any moment. Thus why they mostly shut Usopp out or do their best to ignore his cries of Pirates coming at an older age.
Usopp continued running through the village having a smile on his face, being proud that another day, another enjoyable morning shouting his alerts to the village. "Just kidding!" He snickered out and turned towards the east when reaching the northern part of the village and began heading down towards the woods. "Right, time to check on my crew and see how progress is going for our secret base!"" Usopp told himself as he made his way through some bushes, shrubs and tree roots that were everywhere in the woods. Leaping and even catapulting himself over some thicker roots.
The young man removed some twigs and sticks from his overalls and even swiped some leaves off his arms and shoulders. To then proudly faces forward and rests his hands onto his hips, at the sight of a well crafted and durable looking tree fort within the woods. Tall enough to fit someone of his size, as well fitting a good amount of crewmates too! "OY! Usopp brigade time to rally up and give me your daily reports!" He called out while raising his hands between his mouth. Hearing what sounded like children shouting back to him in response.
"ROGER!" Then three children, that of young boys, began rushing out of the tree house. First one to arrive was a young boy wearing a red bandanna on his head, with a skull and crossbones pattern on it that resembles the UsoppPirates. Wearing black long sleeve shirt and long sleeve orange pants. Grabbing a vine, he swung himself down to ground level, letting go at the last second and almost tumbled over his feet when approaching Usopp. Quickly recovering from it and swiftly raising his right hand to his forehead, "Ninjin reporting!"
The next one began barreling out from within the bushes nearby, wielding what looked to be a baseball bat, flat and smooth green hair, with a skull green T-shirt and blue shorts. As he bounced and hopped about, before reaching next to Ninjin and rested the bat over his shoulder and saluted to Usopp. "Pliman reporting, sir!"
And the last member of the Usopp Pirates came next, walking around a tree that had their tree house built on top of it. Tripping lightly over a rock, while grabbing his glasses from falling. The young boy went ahead and stood right next to Pliman and saluted as well. "Tamanegi reporting sir!" Said the young boy, as he adjusted his blue open vest, and straightened out his yellow shirt underneath it, while quickly swiping his left hand over his brown hair, causing the ponytail top hair to flick and straighten himself once more towards Usopp.
"Alright Usopp pirates, anything that has happened while I was patrolling the village?" Asked the young man, proudly smiling down at his pirate crew, who all smiled back and rapidly shook their heads.
"Nothing to report sir! It's as peaceful and quiet as it is!" All three boys called out together and giggled when Usopp nodded at them with comforting hums and grunts.
"Good, good! Seems like your Captain's strategy is working flawlessly! No pirates would ever dare to attack our home when I am around!" Chuckled Usopp while proudly moving a finger under his nose and began rubbing it cockily. "So, besides there being no signs of pirates. Anything else you have to report?"
"I do, I do!" Yinjin shouted while waving his hand and then rested it down to his sides. "Our fortified defenses and attack dummies are about ready to be set up, Captain! Just need to put the finishing touches to them and they will be ready!"
"That is great news! With those defenses of ours, we will be able to get the drop on any invading pirates!" Cackled Usopp while nodding his head and then facing towards the other two children. "{liman, Tamanegi, what about you two?" He asked and crossed his arms, smiling down at the equally giddy children as they stood rigid.
"Weapons and traps are proceeding flawlessly Captain! We just need a couple more rotten eggs, stink bombs and rubber bands for our ammo- and we should be good!" The two said, while Pliman then moved his baseball bat forward.
"I also have been practicing my moves too Captain, no pirates will know what hit them if they get in my way!" Chuckle the boy while safely swinging his bat to and fro. Having Usopp to eye smile and gently nodding his head. Everything seems to be in order he thought to himself, the kids were having fun and were happy as can be. And, despite his lying and such about there being pirates around or coming on a daily basis, it doesn't seem to bother these three boys in the slightest. They became quite close friends with him and enjoy the energy he brings to the island.
"Great! I am proud to call you three my crewmates! If we keep this up we will definitely show everyone who to not mess with!" Then moves an arm forward. "Anything else to report or any cool findings you all discovered?" Then chuckles, "especially the treasure hunt I made?"
This had Tamanegi laughing, "I do have to say Captain, you made this treasure hunt your hardest yet. It took us three days to find it- but we succeeded and have the treasure up in the tree house as we speak."
"WHOA!" Usopp steps back in shock and amazement while then beaming with happiness. "Three days! Wow, you guys are getting better at this! It took me a week to find some of my own treasure hunts when I was little, despite me knowing where I placed them!" He snickered and listened to the boy's gasping and awing at their Captain skills, that HE too couldn't find his own treasure hunt until a week.
"I feel bad for lying on that one, considering I did know where I placed my treasures. But it doesn't hurt to boost their morale- I mean," He told himself while facing the children who were cheering and rooting at one another, congratulating themselves on a fine day's work! "They were able to find that treasure I hid, in only three days! A regular person would've quit by now. Heh, I definitely chose the best crewmates."
"Hey Usopp, what else should we do!"
"Yeah, I want to play Pirates some more!
"Me too, me too!"
Usopp laughed and shook his head, while then raising an open hand. "Guys, guys- I say you all did a great job today. How about you all take a break eh? You guys spent three days finding my treasure chest, then went and developed our Awesome Usopp pirates defenses, and trained yourselves." then proudly crossed his arms laughing. "I say that is enough for one day."
Usopp then laughed when the children began whining out and then quickly stopped while smiling when he then said, "Plus, your family might be worried about ya. How about you head on back and take the rest of the day off." He ordered them and grinned. "Besides, I have to be somewhere today anyway!"
The boys nodded and understood what he meant, after all- Kaya, a young girl who lives in a mansion on the island and part of a rich family, whose parents had passed away and inherited their riches and home. Who is also ill and bedridden, has been waiting for whenever Usopp comes and visits. To hear tales of his adventures and stories, even though they were lies and fake- the boys do know the young girl appreciates their Captain visiting and making her laugh and smile every week of the month. "Going to visit Kaya captain?" One of the boy's asked, while raising their arms behind their head.
Usopp smiled and gave a thumbs up and winked. "Yup, gotta let her know of our adventures and daily activities as the Great Usopp pirates!" Then chuckle. "Now go on you three, I don't want you to be late getting home."
"Okay, we will play again soon Usopp! Bye!" All the children shouted and began running out through the bushes and shrubbery. Having Usopp watch them leave and waving to the three as he then shouted out towards them.
"Guys, tomorrow we will set up the defenses and have another treasure hunt okay!" He called out and heard the three boys cheering excitedly, making the young man shake his head and chuckles. "Heh, they are really good friends and children." He then faced towards northwest of his position and could see the mansion house through the openings of the bushes, smiling brightly. "Right then Kaya, time for a visit and tell you a great story!" Chuckle Usopp as he then began running through the woods and laughing some more. "Great Captain Usopp adventures are never done!"
Xxx
Meanwhile south of the village and island, a boat could be seen sailing across the seas and slowly making its way over to the island. The ship belonged to Luffy, Kuina and Bellemere who were all eager and readily awaiting to turn in the treasures Luffy had discovered and turning them into berries- and possibly even use some of it to get Luffy his very own Pirate ship! Luffy could be seen stretching his arm up towards the mass of the ship, springing himself up towards the crow nest and landing softly onto it. Then quickly raises his body up and leans forward shouting, "LAND HO! Syrup island is just a few clicks away from Bellemere!" He then looks over the crow nest and towards the helm of the ship.
"I say about twenty minutes away at the speed we're going at currently!"
Bellemere, who is mending the helm and guiding their boat towards Syrup island, smiled up to Luffy and waved with one arm. "Sure thing Luffy, thanks!" Then faces forward and watches Kuina jogging her way to the bow of the ship, hanging off the side of the ship with one rope and beaming brightly at the sight of the land. "Once we reach shore you two, we should go and see if the village has a bank. Where we can trade in the treasures for berries." Bellemere continued, to which Kuina swung around to face the ex-marine and asked loudly.
"How come? Wouldn't the treasure we secure be enough?" Kuina asks while jumping onto the deck, then slightly slides a bit away from the mass. As Luffy came down from the crows nest and landed safely next to the girl, while then standing upright.
"Yeah? I thought finding treasures the way they are is the pirate way?" Luffy asked while folding his arms behind his neck then gaze at Kuina, who looked back and then heard Bellemere continuing to speak, while shaking her head.
"Well..yeah that is a pirate thing to do." Said the ex-marine. "However, if you truly want to get the best value out of your findings? You have to weigh them in and see how much you will get at the appraisal shop slash bank." Then rested both arms onto the helm while resting her chin on said arms. "As you all know Berries are our world's currency right?" She got both teens to nod their head and watched her raise a finger. "Well, much as treasure and even gold or pirate treasure you find out in sea is good and all. Their price value alone won't be exactly enough. Thus, why do we go to appraisal shops and banks, to weigh them and see what their worth is?"
"OH I get it!" Luffy suddenly said while bumping a fist into an open palm. "Berries will be more important than treasures that are found underground, or in ruins and such.,Because that era of treasury is out of date right?"
This had Kuina widening her eyes and laughing, "Oh I see where you're coming from now. That makes total sense, as that era has long passed. Our currency evolved into what it is today, thus we need to be sure to try and see if what we found is a lot for berries."
This had Bellemere smiling and giggling at the two, seeing they have picked up on what she is saying quickly. "That is correct! You two caught on pretty quick." Then stood upwards and leaned away from the helm. "It is important to do so, especially with a large load you found Luffy. So, when we arrived there on Syrup island and Syrup village. First thing we are going to do is see what these treasures are worth and hopefully, the place has a bank as well."
"Roger!" Both teens shouted and began moving about on the boat, preparing to get themselves ready to arrive on land as the isl;and is fast approaching and they were slowly getting closer and closer towards the docks. The two went ahead and began pulling and tugging the ropes to furl up the sails of the boat and quickly fastening the ropes around a peg sticking up and tying them around it.
Luffy then quickly goes to the left side of the ship and Kuina heads to the right side of the boat. As they were loosening some of the weighted bags that were hanging off the side, allowing them to drop into the waters, so that they could hit the grounds under the water to slow down the ship. All the while Bellemere began turning and spinning the wheel, to start having their ship sailing towards its sides and facing sideways from the docks. So Luffy and Kuina go grabbing some large oars from the front of the captain quarters and begin swinging them into the ocean waters- rowing and digging into the ocean banks, so that they can safely pull the boat closer to the wooden docks and start tying the boat down. Bellemere quickly locks the wheel down and hops over the railings of the steering area and jogs over towards the sides where the teens were. Grabbing one of the ropes and began swinging it over head, then tossed it out onto one of the poles of the docks.
Once she tugged tightly to secure the boat, she, Luffy and Kuina all grabbed onto the rope and began tugging and pulling against it- bringing the ship into dock and having it rest gently few inches away from the wooden docks, as the three let out low huffs and smiled to one another. Then went ahead and grabbed one of the planks on the boat, to form a bridge leading to the docks and began making their way down. Once they were on the docks and Bellemere securely tightening the ship down, both Kuina and Luffy stared out towards the town and Luffy gave a small whistle.
"Wow this place looks very peaceful." Luffy exclaimed while then wrapping his arms behind the back of his head. "Doesn't seem like or feel like much happens here?" Then tilt his head over to his left shoulder, "Bellemere, I don't know if there will be a bank here or not?" Luffy stated and watches the ex-marine stand up after tying the ship down and walks over to the two teens. Humming while facing towards the peaceful looking town.
"Hmm, well they will or else how would they get money." She joked but hums, "but you might be right? At least, for appraising and weighing the treasures we have found." Then turned to Kuina, who raised a finger and then pointed to the ship.
"Then should we take a little bit of the treasure and not the whole thing. Just in case they do or do not have a place like that?" Kuina asked and suggested watching Bellemere humming and then nodded her head.
"Good idea, Luffy, could you go and get the treasure? Like ten pieces of it for safety measures." The ex-marine asked and laughed when Luffy gave a happy chuckle and went ahead back to the ship and came back out, holding a very tiny bag that had the amount of treasure Bellemere wanted him to grab.
"Right then let's go you two. Let's see if we could find a place we could turn these in." smiled Bellemere and began walking towards the town, with the other two following right behind her. Both Kuina and Luffy have excitement running down their beings as it is another place they could explore and check out! Even more so there being no pirates or troublemakers anywhere with how peaceful the place is. But how wrong they are as things will definitely start picking up later down the road.
Xxx
The village, known as Syrup village for Luffy and his crew, was indeed peaceful as the trio began walking through the town and were waving at the nearby locals. Who too were waving back at them, while asking how their day was going, how they are doing and hopefully they enjoy their stay. Bellemere, made sure to remind both Kuina and Luffy about keeping their profile of being pirates here very low- least they don't want another situation back in Orange town to happen again, or them getting chased out.
Getting the two of them to softly nod their heads and understand. Especially Luffy, considering despite not being too perspective- he can tell this village DEFINITELY does not have any signs of pirates living here or marking their claims here on the island. The young man even began looking around the village in pure awe and curiosity, as well as Kuina. The two even widened their eyes after they reached the crossroads of the town. Seeing and spotting what looked to be a large mansion in the distance, leaving the two awestruck while Luffy exclaimed.
"Who lives there! That is a huge mansion!" Luffy shouted as they alerted the store clerk that they were approaching, causing Bellemere to turn at Luffy and then face the mansion. Then the trio faced the store clerk as he chuckled and laughed.
"That place? A wealthy family lived there that runs quite the companies far off seas. Their Daughter and butlers right now currently reside there, after…well." The clerk then sighed and scratched his chin. "A horrible incident happened to Miss Kaya-san." He began saying having the trio to stare and then softening their expressions when he opened a hand. "You see, the mister and misses who lived there…or once lived there, went out sailing for one of their businesses and a terrible accident happened where a horrible storm brewed up where they were going- taking their lives there and then, engulfing their ship down to Davy Jones' locker."
"Oh my…is, is she alright?" Bellemere asked and then felt her heart going out for Kaya when the man shook his head.
"Ever since the tragedy, the young Kaya had fallen horribly ill and was bedridden and unable to leave her room." Then smiled and chuckled. "But no worries, her butlers are taking great care of her." Then laughs some more as he opens up the doors and is ready to welcome the trio inside. "Heck, even our own troublemaker town clown Usopp- goes there once a while to speak to her and spend time with her. I find him annoying, he does have a kind heart and always looks out for Kaya whenever she feels lonely."
This had Luffy blinking his eyes wider at the mention of the name, "Usopp?" He openly stated and had Kuina looking towards him in confusion and then leaned slightly close.
"You know him, Luffy? I thought you said you never left your home, until now?" Kuina asked and then widened her eyes and leaned back when Luffy crossed his arms and let out a low gruntled humming and then faced Kuina.
"I don't know Usopp himself, but I know of a person whose name sounds similar. His name is Yasopp. I wonder if they are related?" Luffy hummed and then he and Kuina, even Bellemere, looked towards the shop clerk who had quite the surprised expression on his face and leaned slightly forward pointing at Luffy.
"Wait-wait! You met Usopp's father? My gosh, ever since he left the islands ten years ago, I was worried something bad happened, but to hear you young one has met him. Kinda gives me a knowing sensation that he's doing fine." Then the clerk ushered them to come in or at least Bellemere, "actually I think it would be cool if Usopp learned about this and hears how his father is a-okay. Especially since he set sail with a red haired man…what was his name?" The man began humming and had Bellemere laughing to herself after entering the store and heard Luffy almost about to scream, but made sure to control himself. Exclaiming.
"SHANKS! YES, that was him then oh wow! I knew his father then and met him too!" Luffy continued saying and had Kuina blinking her eyes and then went dotted as she realized who Luffy just said!
"The hell!? SHANKS, as in Shanks the red hair pirates Shanks!? Luffy met them as a child…" Though quickly recovers from the shock and then stares at the straw hat. Recalling Luffy telling her how special and important the hat is for him, Then connecting the dots slowly of who that hat belonged to- "No wonder Luffy holds that hat so close to him. Shanks gave it to him when he was a child…" She then looked down to her hips and saw the sword her father handed down to her resting in its sheath. Smiling fondly at it and gently stroking her thumb over the hilt. "I understand the sentimental feeling of Luffy. Heh, who knew my captain knows a lot of famous people."
Bellemere also couldn't believe what she heard, the woman then laughed and gently rested against the door frame. "Hey you two- how about you both look for this Usopp fellow?: Then opens up a hand. "I am sure he would love to hear tales of your adventures and possibly even be excited to meet people around his age as well." Then look to the Clerk. "Where do you think he is, mister?"
"Call me Joey, as for where Usopp might be?" The bearded clerks man hummed and then faced towards the mansion. "Well he should be done playing pretend pirates with some of the children in the village and should be right about now- meeting up with Kaya. He always goes to meet her after he and the children get done playing. So, just follow the road towards the mansion and I have no doubt the two of you will run into him." Then laughs. "And if you happen to find the kids, they can give better directions than I can. They have known Usopp for a long time so, best ask them than me." Then looks at Luffy and Kuina, who stared back. "Honestly, I agree with your guardian here- be nice if Usopp meets with people of his age. And who knows, he will probably even enjoy you two adventures out there in the sea, if she's "
"Bellemere" Bellemere smiled and told the clerk who laughed.
"Bellemere here, says it will be good. Who knows, the two of you might learn something as well."
"I don't see why not," Kuina said and looked at Luffy. "What do you say Luffy? Shall we go and check this Usopp person out?"
Luffy grins towards her and laughs, "SURE! We could also even check in on this Kaya girl as well, I am curious if we could cheer her up too or even tell her stories of our own adventures!" Chuckled the straw hat teen, getting Kuina to laugh and having a slight blush on her face seeing how her captain- who only just heard the girls name. Wanted to go and possibly cheer Kaya up by sharing their stories to her.
"That sounds nice, then let's go." Kuina then faced Bellemere and the Clerk. "Alright then, we will separate ways here. Good luck Bellemere," Then looks at Luffy. "Let's go Luffy, you have me curious now." And began jogging towards the streets once more and heading in the direction of the mansion.
"Hey-hey-hey wait up! Don't get started without me!" He shouted and let it growl when Kuina faced him and stuck her tongue out at him, saying how he has to be quick on his feet if he wants to out run her and began laughing loudly, while it had Luffy. Grinning and shouting back, "Oh you're on! The first one to find Usopp or reach Kaya's house, has to swab the deck of the boat!"
This had Bellemere and the clerk laughing and shaking their heads, as the woman smiles at him and shrugs her shoulders. "Eh kids," she jokingly said and then raised a bag. "By the way, you know if there's a way I can appraise these treasures?"
The man hummed and faced the woman and then opened his hand to receive the bag, as Bellemere placed it onto his palm and watched him bounce it up and down. "I may not be a bank, nor do we have an appraisal shop anywhere. Bu, I can give you estimated guesses how many berries you will get with this…or other treasures you have if you want?" He smiled and had Bellemere smiling as well, saying how the rest are back at the ship. "Lead the way,I will be as much help as I can." Thus the two went ahead and began heading towards Bellemere's boat. While Kuina and Luffy head off to find Usopp or Kaya's house.
Xxx
Meanwhile at the estate of Kaya's house, the young girl can be seen resting and sitting in her bed. Looking to be reading one of the novels that were in her room, the girl is wearing a light tan looking coat hanging over her shoulders and neck, while wearing a long flowing dress underneath- that's being covered by her bed's blankets and sheets. Blonde flowing hair going and reaching down to her back, her black eyes scanning over the book she's reading, comfortably enjoying it- though let out a couple of sighs.
Then closes the book and rests it onto her lap, she then turns towards one of the clocks on her table stand. Seeing how it was reaching past two o'clock. The girl was wondering if Usopp was visiting or not? But giggles, knowing she has nothing to fear- he will be playing with those children he told her about and is probably about-
"OY, Kaya- Kaya!" It was Usopp's voice! Having her whip her head to the windows and having a huge smile on her face. Seeing the boy on a thick tree branch having that goofy smile of his and waving towards the girl. The girl removed the blankets and gently swung her legs around them and placed them onto the bedroom carpet- then began getting out of bed and lightly jogs over to the window- opening up the double-doors and beaming even wider as Usopp's smile just grew. "Hey Kaya! Doing better?"
The girl giggled with a nod, "I am, thanks to you." She said getting Usopp to blush. "Honestly Usopp, you're telling me stories of your adventures and such. Makes me feel excited and happy to hear them and imagine myself going on those adventures." Kaya stated as she gently rested her arms onto the balcony railings. "SO! What adventures did you have today?"
Usopp smirked and raised his head up, making his long pointed nose go upward as well. "If you are ready for this type of journey young lady. Then sit down and have a seat, cause today's adventure is going to knock your socks off!" He joked and had Kaya laughing wildly as she went ahead and found her chair she had placed near the window and sat down, happily folding her hands onto her lap and waited for her friend to start telling his tale. "Alright," Usopp then began clearing his throat and started moving his right arm about, "today's adventures of Great Captain Usopp and his pirates- is a wild one." Then raised his arm into the air. "There we were sailing across the seas, heading into dangerous territory of the calm seas where the sea kings live and roam about!"
"OH my!?" Kaya's eyes widened as she let out a gasp. "You went towards the Calm seas, what happened?!"
"There my friend is where the seas, with no winds, no weather and none of the waves were roaring or crashing out into the air.: Then raised a pointer finger. "To which you know nobody, not even the bravest of pirates would dare venture into." This had Kaya nodding and raising her hands up to her mouth in glee when Usopp proudly pushed his chest out. "But not ol-captain Usopp and his pirates! We laughed in the face of danger and bravely headed into the calm seas, despite the warnings and cries of other pirates near the ports." He then thumbed against his chest. "We knew what we were doing and knew a way to even get by the calm sea, without even disturbing the Sea kings."
Kaya rested her hands onto her chest as she nodded. "What did you guys do? I heard rumors nobody ever got through it in their life. Even though the Marines have a way to get by it? What did you use?"
The boy happily chuckled and began doing a rowing motion with his arms, "you see my young lady, us Usopp pirates used oars to get through the calm sea." Then quickly spread both arms out. "However- we didn't have Oars to even row! That we had forgotten back on the port we left at!"
"Oh no!" Kaya giggled out and leaned forward on her seat. "Then how were you guys able to sail across the sea? If you didn't have oars to row with?" She asked, doing her best not to get too excited and flare up her illness. But her eyes were just shining and glistening from the sunlight and reflection of her windows- to even reflecting through Usopp's eyes.
Usopp proudly crossed his arms and closed his eyes smugly, "simple."
"Hm?" Kaya then tilted her head and nearly gasped in excitement when Usopp raised his head proudly.
"We summoned the Sea kings to help us out!" He suddenly said, watching Kaya eyes buylging in shock and now was completely enthralled with his story and nearly began laughing wildly as he told her how they summoned them. "Course, we didn't have their favorite food or anything to bring them to the water surfaces." Then snicker. "So, I offered myself to be the bait!"
"Oh my gosh! Was it scary!?" She asked and leaned closer and saw Usopp lean closer too laughing.
"Hey, we're talking about the Great Captain Usopp here! The bravest warrior of the seas!" Usopp then waved and wiggled his arms about. "Course dangling about off the ships deck, while being hung and swaying about as live bait. It was nerve wracking but I told my crew." then cleared his voice once more and put on a serious and brave expression on his face. "Do not worry crew, your captain knows what he is doing, it is all part of the plan." Then calms down and waits for everything to sink in for the girl. Who couldn't help but let out an 'aw' of Usopp's bravery and kindness to his crewmates, then waited for him to continue.
"And so- while dangling in the air the shadows of the calm seas began to grow- darker and thicker, rumbling of the water surface splashes and hits against our ship. Tilting and almost having the ship go top side- my body flexed and swung all over the top of the sea, as the surface of the water began forming and turning into the shape of a mountain!"
"Oh my, this must've been a large Sea king!" Kaya gasped out and had Usopp nodding his head and leaned away from the girl and spread his arms out.
"THE BIGGEST ANYONE COULD IMAGINE!" He shouted and had the girl gasping when he did the same thing for the vertical directions of his arms. "The biggest and meanest of all Sea kings appeared before us- ready to swallow good ol' captain Usopp!" then punches a fist into an open palm. "So massive that there was no way for me to escape or break free from my bindings, that the sea creature could easily swallow me and my crewmates in one single gulp!"
"Oh no, how were you able?" Though the story then got cut short when one of her butlers came into the room- after knocking on the door and entering. Wearing your typical tux and dress pants, having glasses adjourn in front of his eyes and black smooth looking hair. The man lightly sighed and began approaching the two teenagers.
"Excuse me Kaya but it is almost time for your daily medicine dosage and walking exercise." He explained while then sneering towards Usopp, who deflated a little and stared back. "No time for childish tales or stories- or make believe." The man stated harshly, having Kaya groan slightly and softly look down towards the floor and then towards Usopp. Who looked at her and then smiled and gave her a thumbs up.
"No worries Kaya, we can continue this tomorrow. Cliffhangers are always a part of a story right!" Usopp chuckled out and had the girl smiling and nodding to him. "Same time tomorrow? I have no doubt you're going to be busy the rest of the day." Usopp said and saw her smiling softly at him and resting a hand against her chest.
"You promise?" Kaya asked and looked at Usopp, then had a reassuring smile on her face when he nodded.
"Of course, Usopp always keeps his promises! Now I better get going, I need to go get something to eat anyway. He snickered and had Kaya laughing as he began sliding down the large tree that's near her window and hops down onto the ground and then turns around to face the girl. Who smiled back and then lightly frowned a bit when her butler came over and began closing the double door windows. Having Usopp to blow some air and harden his looks suspiciously towards the glasses wearing butler and then jus quickly replaced his expression with a smile and waves goodbye to Kaya. Who waved back, watching the teenager begin walking off the premises and towards town.
"Miss Kaya, I don't mind you socializing with people, it is in your best interest that you don't speak or talk to someone like him. Who's parent is a pirate- they are no good and cannot be trusted." Informed the butler as he began prepping some tea and sandwiches for the girl. Having her to sigh and shake her head.
"Kuro, you really have nothing to worry about. Usopp is a good and kind person, there will be no reason for me not to trust him or talk to him." Then began walking over to her bed and cough slightly while climbing back onto it. "Besides, he tells me stories and always makes sure to see me smile and laugh."
The man now known as Kuro, let out a grunt sigh and lifted up the tray of sandwiches and the tea cup- then brought it over to the young girl. "Either way miss Kaya, You shouldn't be speaking to anyone who's related to pirates. But you're still young, you don't have the best keen eyes for these types of things." He told her while setting the tray onto the night stand next to her and then raised up. "Now if you excuse me, I must go and make some calls. We are running a bit low on groceries and I need to see if the townsfolk have any in stock."
The young girl sighed lightly and stared at the tray…also seeing her medicine as well. Making her get a bit of a miserable look on her face but shook her head. "Alright, though maybe you could have Merry come and speak with me or get me updates of what's been going on lately." She requested, having Kuro who was ready to leave the room, to hang onto the doorknob for a while and then squeeze it. Holding back any type of frustration or annoyance, or grievance having to listen and follow orders from a ruly brat like her. But manages to hold it back as he turns around and bows to her. "As you wish, I will inform Merry once I see him." Then stood upright. "Good bye." And then proceeds to head out of the room and close the door behind him.
Once he did and faced towards the many halls of the mansion. He began walking down said halls while speaking to himself, "Stupid little witch, honestly wasting my time here being her slave." He told himself while beginning to make his way to the main hall of the mansion. "I don't care if she is the heir of the family riches here, but it could've been used properly or more efficiently to someone with actual brains and experience. Not so much for a little teenager like her…how crude that the family riches are gonna be wasted on a sickly girl." He continued musing out as he opened the door leading to the main hall, seeing some maids women sweeping and cleaning about the knicknacks and marble flooring that is being dusted.
"Just keep yourself steady Kuro, your time will come. You have waited this long and have been very patient. Your plans are going accordingly and there hasn't been any kind of mix up whatsoever or any anomalies to screw the plan over." He told himself while he made his way down the steps and stairs of the grand hall, spotting Merry in the distance and what seemed to be talking to someone on the phone. Before Kuro could explain what Kaya wanted, while telling him he would be heading out to grab some groceries, the yellow-haired butler raised himself from the phone and rested a hand on the speaker's part.
"Ah Kuro, someone is on the phone and they want to try and speak with you. Saying they're your friends?" Merry said with a confused expression, having Kuro to stare in confusion and tilt his head bewildered. Who would call for him? "He says his name is Jango?" Merry continued and saw Kuro's eyes widened greatly and seemed to be lightly ghosted at the mention of the name. "Does…does that strike one of your memory loss?"
Kuro quickly recovered and straightened himself out, then quickly adjusted his glasses by using the flat end of his palms and sighed. "Nope, don't ring the bell…" then opened his eyes. "But how about you do me a favor? I will take care of this person, while you go out and grab groceries off this list." Then approached Merry who smiled and nodded. "Also, when you come back- Kaya wants you to hang out with her and keep her company."
"Of course anything for Miss Kaya, alright here you go." Merry handed the phone over and received the grocery list from Kuro. Then begins heading out of the mansion and making his way towards the village. Kuro, who waited and stood in front of the phone for a while, began looking around his surroundings, to see if anyone else was nearby or was eavesdropping on him. Seeing he is in the clear, the man then raised the phone up to his ear and had quite a scowling expression.
"What the hell you want, let alone how in the world did you find me." Kuro demanded an answer, of all times, for his pirate crew to finally find him and discover his location. It had to be the Black cat pirates first mate who discovered his location.
"Well…that is one hell of a hello to your faithful first mate. But I am doing fine thanks for asking." The man on the other line sarcastically said, getting Kuro to sigh irritably and gently grabbed the bridge of his nose. "Anyway, it wasn't all that hard to find where you were captain. At least for me that is."
"Jango…" Kuro growled irritably and gently leaned to his right leg. "How long have you and the Pirate crew been searching for me?" He asked, hoping it wasn't a big fuss or doing ludacris things to look for him that brought them under the radar of the Marines. That will definitely ruin any plans he has going right now, especially trying to get this family's riches and such by figuring out how to get rid of the last heir to the family's inheritance.
"For a good couple of months to be honest, no worries. We weren't boastful or loud let alone attracting attention to ourselves. We made sure…well, I made sure to tell the crew to keep a low profile while searching out in the seas." Jango informed him and began going over details of how the process of finding them went and letting their Captain know what places they figured he may have been at or shipwrecked on. Having Kuro to hum and gently smile softly, but still ticked off that they managed to find him, let alone possibly even ruin his plans greatly.
"Listen Jango, I have been plotting for nearly those months of being absent from the Pirate crew. I don't need or want any interference with my plans, and you know how I get when my plans get screwed up."
"I know trust me, that skill of yours even if I am your first mate- and a hypnotist. I don't want to fathom the damages and injuries you can cause with that technique.." Jango said on the other end, while then letting out a grunt. "I even told the crew too- but you know them. They're very passionate about making sure you're okay and are safe."
Kuro sighed irritably and then began rubbing his eyes gently under the glasses as he then raised his head up and groaned. "How long will it take for you and the crew to arrive at Syrup village?"
The first mate Jungo let out a couple of sighs through the other end of the receiver and let out a low hum. "We will be arriving within two hours, Kuro. Anything you want me to warn the crew about or give direct orders?" The man asked as he waited for his captain to give him an answer. As Kuro hummed lightly and clicked his tongue in annoyance. They were arriving within those hours now!? All he had worked up for and planned will go to waste, if they start invading the island and terrorizing the village. It will go all to waste if this happened…though his eyes blinked suddenly at a thought coming to his head. If the crew were going to arrive, then he could work this in his favor- he could have them actually be hidden and pretend to merge themselves into the village with everyone least expect it.
"Actually yes, I do have something in mind that will work. Something that won't interfere with my current plans." Then chuckled as Jungo let out a low hum of interest and lean lightly on his right leg. "Here's the plan, I want you to tell the crew-" He began relaying the message over to his first mate, going every "...Actually you have a pen and paper?"
"No worries, I am always carrying them, now after what you said with 'having them arrive on the southern border of the island.'?"
Kuro laughed and adjusted his glasses with the flat end of his palm and nodded. "Yes, now let's resume." He continued on- unaware that he was being listened to, as Merry had forgotten to close the door all the way and Usopp- who had left earlier, had come back to the mansion. Thinking he had forgotten something and saw Merry leaving earlier- and approached the butler and asked if he wouldn't mind if Usopp looked around for his slingshot. Too which the Butler chuckled and happily allowed the young teenager permission to scan around the outer walls.
While he was looking around the mansion for his slingshot- he was successful in finding it near the window area of where he last spoke to Kaya. Then while he was returning to the front door and was about to leave- he overheard what sounded like the other butler Kuro was speaking to someone. Curiosity getting the best of him, he sidled his way over to the half opened door and listened to the conversation. His eyes were wide and trembling badly at what he overheard and began taking a few steps back and away from the door.
"N-No way, no way!? A-Actual pirates are here in Syrup village!?" Usopp began talking to himself in panic and felt his entire being going ghostly, as images started running through his head of what could happen to his home. Screams and yells, explosions and gun fires being shot and exploding within the down and just out right decimenting everything in their path, to even horrors of the people he know and cares for were lying on the grounds- to then whipping his head up when Kaya's face was the last image in his head and snapped Usopp out of his thoughts.
"Kaya…she's in danger! I-I need to warn the villagers and tell them what's going on! I…I am the only one who can!" He told himself and quickly turned around and began rushing his way straight out of the mansion gates and down the road leading back to the village. He knew what he had to do and he knows he is the only one who could possibly stop whoever these pirates were that are invading!
Along the way of the road and halfway to the village entrance, we see Luffy and Kuina walking along the road side, calmly just taking their time to approach and reach the mansion belonging to this Kaya girl. Luffy let out a low yawn and stretched out his arms above his head smiling at Kuina, "SO that's how you became a bounty hunter and swordswomen. You wanted to uphold your dreams to Zoro- who became your rival and saved your life from kidnappers." Luffy said while wrapping his hands around his neck. ""Very brave of you to tell me your story, Kuina."
This had the girl looking away with a slight blush, "Honestly, you're the first person I ever told you this story." She then lightly scratched her chin and felt herself becoming a bit bashful all of the sudden and her heart oddly racing for some reason. But then shook them off and turned to Luffy, "But yup- that's why I said or told you that if you ever were to get in the way of my dream, I would kill you."
Luffy nodded happily as he did recall her saying that when freeing her from the marines. #Especially Helmeppo. "No worries, I am going to keep that promise." Then faces forward and tilt his head, "but man it would've been cool to have both you AND Zoro as my crewmates…" then beamed happily. "But I am glad Zoro and you were great friends. Sure he is quite happy with how you are doing and is caring for yourself." He said towards the girl, having her eyes slightly widened and then looked away with a click of her tongue and biting her lower lip…then sicker as she smiled and leaned her head back proudly stating.
"What- scared that a lady could outpace you or beat you in terms of strength?" She teased, having Luffy bellow out laughter. Getting Kuina to laugh with him and eyes smiled towards the boy, while then laughing and moving her head away when he pointed at her.
"Considering how speedy you are and skilled with that sword? I would definitely have to keep my guard up!" He jokingly said but also told the truth. He saw her in actual combat with that unicycle guy for those brief moments back on the island with the Buggy pirates. Kuina could easily defeat him if he wasn't careful, let alone- with that sword and those techniques she uses…yeah him being rubber, she can easily tear him to shreds.
"So Luffy…" Kuina began saying while then gently leaning forward and having the neck collar hang a bit, blinked her eyes curiously towards the black hair teen. "What about you? Since I told you my story, I want to know about yours." She asked, hoping she isn't stepping on boundaries or overstepping her curiosity with her captain.
Luffy smiled and then snickered, it was a fair question after all. She told him her story and it's only fair he does the same for her, he was ready to grab his hat and have it in front of him. "Well it all started with this hat- you see Shanks-" though before the teen could continue his story, it got interrupted by another voice that was screaming and yelling in pure panic! Causing Luffy and Kuina to face forward and saw what looked to be a teenager, around Luffy's age and hers- running down the road in front of them.
Matching the description from earlier from the store clerk Joey. The two were ready to greet him and say hello, only for things to go black around their surroundings and freeze in place when Usopp ran right between them shouting in pure fear! "THE PIRATES ARE COMING, THE PIRATES ARE COMING, THE PIRATES ARE COMING! He shouted out of pure shock and terror passing the two who stood frozen and had their eyes quickly turning wide and in pure disbelief of what they just heard. Yes, they were told by the villagers that Usopp lies about the notion of pirates actually coming. But the tone…the way he was breathing and panting heavily, to looking like he was running a marathon had both Luffy and Kuina to just stand there with their mouths agape.
Registering what they just heard the teen shouting. Making both of them quickly shake out of their stupor and quickly turn sideways facing the direction the boy went, who continued screaming and shouting that phrase. "Luffy!" Kuina quickly said in a hurried tone and faced her captain, who looked back at her with the same expression. "You?"
"Yeah," Luffy quickly responded and continued staring down the road Usopp took and growled lightly. "That was no lie, his posture and tone screams out he really did see them." Luffy then looked to the direction of the mansion wondering if that was where they were? But they could only go by little evidence as the two can't go and barge into the mansion unannounced. "We need more evidence though before we jump the gun. Come on, let's try and catch up to Usopp!" Luffy cried out and began running back to the village as fast as he could! With Kuina shouting yeah and followed right behind her captain!
Xxx
"THE PIRATES ARE COMING, THE PIRATES ARE COMING, THE PIRATES ARE COMING!" Usopp shouted and yelled throughout the town, causing the people there in the village to groan and growling out in frustration! Even trying their best to tune him out. Trying their best to get back to their daily activities- though let out another grunt of annoyance as the boy continues shouting the words. Then actually going over to a couple of houses and began banging on their doors, "Come on anyone! The pirates are actually coming! They are going to be arriving within two hours! Come on Cobasky!" Then grunts when the door slammed open and literally leans back when a burly looking man holding a pitchfork faces it at Usopp.
"Listen here brat, I may have been able to ignore and amuze your fantasies far enough. Give it a br3eak and shut the hell up! No damn Pirates are coming, we haven't had any pirates activities- ever since your bastard of a father left! Now leave us alone!" Then slams the door shut, causing Usopp to flinch and groan slightly…that stung he thought but fair point.
Usopp though isn't going to let that get to him, "FINE!" he shouted and hops over the fence and begins running towards the next house, and tries delivering the message once more hoping others will believe him!
But same result as before, they got annoyed, threatened and even had a weapon ready to use on him if he were to keep disturbing their peace and quiet! This went on for a couple more minutes as Usopp, who is getting a bit exhausted and tired from shouting and running around- is starting to lose hope as the next couple of houses were the same thing, try warning them, they barge the door open, threaten him and close it in his face. Even calling him how this has to be one of the worst lies he ever came up with! "I mean…I've been using these same sentences for my entire life…" he stated lightly with a bit of a deadpan expression.
But quickly shook his head and decided to head over to his pirate crew houses and see if their parents will believe him! While all this was happening, Bellemere came out from the shop after thanking Joey for the help and shook her head in disappointment. "Well that was a bust?" She said openly while turning to the shop and then faced forward, crossing her arms under her busts and hummed. "I guess all we can do is go to my home and pay off Arlong right there and then…hm?" Then blinked her eyes and looked out to the village. Seeing the boy Usopp Joey mentioned and hearing the boy shouting and crying out his famous quote she was told about.
Although her eyes hardened and watched closely at Usopp's body behavior, as he looked quite exhausted and tired- but also the way he is reacting and how his body language is behaving? The boy is seemingly actually telling the truth and what he discovered might be serious. Problem is…she is an ex-marine. She isn't sure if she should jump in and ask Usopp of what's happening, let alone- if he is truly telling the truth or not? Though she doesn't want to ignore a cry, she needs to be sure that what is happening is true or not. Though flinched and wince lightly when the boy tripped over some pebbles and rocks. Watching him fall on the ground and begin laying there for a while, then starting curling up his arms and legs, grunting and hissing out and began punching the ground.
"Damn it…Damn it!" He shouted and cried out as he shook his head and rubbed his long nose against the dirt. "Why, why, why won't anyone believe me! Kaya is in trouble, the village is in trouble, everyone is in danger!" He continued shouting and crying out that had Bellemere softening her expression and began feeling the raw emotions he was letting out. "Damn it all!" He continued and began sitting up and sat down on the ground. Crossing his legs and arms, going into a deep thought. Before Bellemere could decide to go and ask what was wrong, she heard Kuina and Luffy's voices in the distance.
"Bellemere!" The two shouted and alerted her towards them and watched the two teens panting and breathing heavily, as they too were running and slowly approached the ex-marine who leaned down at the two gasping teens asking if they were alright. Before Luffy and Kuina both lifted themselves up with Luffy leaning close and saying, "Bellemere- we have a problem!" He panted out and then looked towards Usopp. "Usopp discovered that there are pirates here!"
"What?!" Bellemere responded back with a shock expression. Then turned to Kuina, who was hanging her back out a bit and rested herself.
"Y-Yeah, the boy came running from Kaya's mansion in such a panic and terrifying tone. Let alone with how his face was at the time?" Then shook her head and breathed calmly, "I don't think he is lying this time around." She informs the marine, who looks quite surprised and tries taking the information in but…there is no way Luffy and Kuina will lie to her! She has been sailing with them for a couple of weeks now and had gotten quite close to the children- that she knows their body behaviors and how when they do try and lie to her, they have a tick to their bodies that tells her they were. And right now, none of them are flinching or stuttering out their sentences and words.
Bellemere wrapped one arm over her midsection and grabbed her left elbow, while placing her left hand under her chin. Then faces towards Usopp- who seems to be racking his brain hard and wildly going through ideas of possibly…in her own words, protecting his home but is constantly thrashing about and wildly rubbing his hair about trying to think of something. "Alright you two- how about we get him to talk with us and figure out EXACTLY what he heard and seen, alright?" She informed me while raising a finger. "Both Pirates and Marines must always be diligent when something like this happens." She told the two and looked down a bit, surprised she added Pirates into the mix and laughed at it, after all- Luffy and Kuina are pirates…so it makes sense for those words to come out from her mouth.
Luffy and Kuina nod as Luffy then turns towards Usopp and breathes in heavily and shouts, "OR Usopp!" Causing the frizzled hair teen to literally jump out of his skin and onto his feet- before whipping around and face towards those who were calling out to him. "You have someplace we can discuss in private- we want to hear more about what you just saw!" Luffy continued shouting and saw the boy stare dubiously at first, then smiling slowly and wider as he couldn't believe it! Someone here is going to believe!
"Y-Yes of course, follow me! My pirate crew and I have a base within the woods! We can discuss things over there!" He responded back and began leading the way. Having Luffy, Kuina and Bellemere to stare at one another and nod, as they too began running and following Usopp towards the woods- where his Usopp Pirate crew's base of operation is waiting for them. Unaware this caught the attention to the three children, who were hiding behind one of the house and heard Usopp shouting his famous quote- but something was off about it that caused the three children to be concern and headed outside to see or ask what was wrong, only for him to be spoken to by some strangers who believes him and is taking them to their base? They were worried and began following them, thinking that what Usopp is saying is actually true and these strangers…probably want to help or cause trouble to their captain!
Operations to stop the invading Pirates will begin in just two hours, as that is all the time they have before they start arriving and possibly cause problems and trouble to the city! As another fierce battle is about to begin!
To be continued…