Updated Chapter

===XXX===XXX===XXX===

The sisters stared at Chopper with concerned expressions evident. What he is offering is something they needed based on the dread of their situation. Despite that fact, they hesitated in accepting this. Who's to tell that their acceptance of the offer won't provide Chopper complications in the future?

"Chopper, you're offering us something of great value. We are humans. We -"

"I cannot overlook your safety. You are my patients. Your life is my responsibility and I will do everything in my power to see you all safe. This is the way." Chopper cut Sab off her words. He is determined to protect these three. He never felt this protective to anyone else in his entire life. For whatever reason, deep inside him, he felt the urge to protect them.

"Chopper, we are grateful for everything you've done to us. We owe you our lives, but we cannot risk yours." Ann looked at the healer. She wavered at how evident his will and resolve to bring them to Raftel. Deep inside her, she wanted to go. There is the lingering force that is telling her to go, but she ignored it in favor of Chopper's safety.

"If I let you go, what proof do I have that you will be safe out there? You are leaving yourselves open to being tracked down by the invaders. The plan Sab had might have fooled them, but for how long?" The twins fell silent what Chopper said. What they did is to buy time but they knew too well that it won't be enough. If they leave, they have nowhere to go and they are unsure if they can gather all the remaining armies loyal to the Cresta Royal Family and have them fight against Akainu's men. If that were to happen, for sure, they are going to meet their end and risk capture.

"I know you badly wanted to save your kingdom, but your safety must be prioritized. What would be the use of the little resistance remaining if the leaders are dead?" Chopper pointed. He knew what he is uttering is like a grain of salt poured on the wound but he has no choice. They have to agree.

"Chopper is right." Luffia said, earning the glances of the twins. Knowing the youngest princess, she should be the first one to oppose this idea as this might risk Chopper's safety. What prompt Luffia to agree?

Luffia looked at her sisters. She has her reason for agreeing to Chopper. The reason is mainly the safety of her sisters. She knew too well that they are willing to do anything to protect her, and if they go out on a journey to reclaim their kingdom, she is not sure how long they can hide. Worse comes to worst, all of them might die.

"Luffia - "

"We're not ready to take Akainu and his men. We are not s-strong enough." Luffia's voice trembled at the memory of how much slaughter the kingdom took from the invaders. She saw it – through her eyes how helpless she was in as she watched how their men died, how ruthless Akainu was, and dead set to kill everyone who dared to go against him. They were helpless and she loathed it.

Ann sensed what Luffia must have been feeling at this moment. She too felt helpless during the invasion. She wondered how many lives of their men had been sacrificed to save the three of them. Should they be risking their lives resulting in the sacrifices made to be in vain?

They should not.

"We will go to Raftel, for now, until our injuries have healed enough, then we can leave." Ann uttered with complete resolution. It is the best compromise they could have.

Sab nodded in an acknowledgment. Even if she would protest, she would just make a fool of herself. What princess in her right mind would travel with no destination to defeat the forces that overthrew the Cresta army? What power could they have to defeat it? Unless…Sab shook her head. She can't ask Chopper to risk his life and his brethren to fight for them and what proof does she have that they will fight for them?

"Chopper, how should we proceed?" Sab asked.

Chopper's mind formulated a plan that will keep them safe. He knew that he can't openly bring them to Raftel as that will bring them into a possible execution. He is not sure how the High Princes will react but what he is sure of is the High Princes are not fond of humans, almost all the creatures in Raftel are. He could not tell that to them as that may give them hesitation in coming with.

"I have mentioned of my house at the center of Raftel. As Royal Healer, I was granted such a place but aside from that, I have a house where I could bring you. It is still at the Center of Raftel, but not in the Royal area. It is where the more peaceful beasts live. It should be safe for the three of you to stay there."

"How do we get past borders?" Ann voiced out.

"I know of a route we can take that will bring us faster to my place. We need to move in the morning for the beasts' instincts and senses are high at night."

All of them thought for a moment, processing the information they obtained from Chopper.

"Suffice to say, you are going to smuggle us inside Raftel?" There is no other fit description than what Sab uttered.

"We have to avoid any unnecessary encounters at them until I can speak to the Peace Keeper and inform him of your presence. The sooner we leave the better. We can't be sure when the invaders would make their move."

Sab did not persist in her question. Ann only sighed, as if the weight on her shoulders increased. Luffia on the other hand smiled.

"Don't you think this is meant to be? We've heard stories of Raftel since we were kids, and now, we are about to see that different world. There must be a good reason for this, don't you think?"

The twins looked at each other, weighing the reasons for this sudden encounter with the world they only know from stories. What they came up as reason is a lot pessimistic than what their youngest sister pertains to. What reason could they expect for this situation?

But the more they give a thought of this scenario, the more they see what Luffia meant.

What used to be dreams, stories, and myths came into reality.

What they knew as fiction is just a hand's reach away.

What they dreamed to see can now be seen.

They only need to step forward.

"Chopper. When do we leave?"

"Ideally, two days from now, but I have to check the vicinities and the situation in Raftel to make sure our passage will not be discovered. I will have to ask a friend to lend a hand to our journey. It will take almost a day for us to reach out destination give or take we don't cross any difficulties."

"Almost a day? It's far. It's as if we are traveling from one kingdom to the other."

Chopper looked at Ann with an understanding.

"Raftel is close, if you are traveling as the creatures do, it would only take an hour for them to travel as they are fast, or they can fly. As for us, we will be traveling by land. We have to get past the portal, then travel to my place." Their expressions were full of awe. They dreaded to pinch themselves back to reality as their minds still cannot believe this is happening.

Days staying with Chopper still can't let them grasp the reality they are in.

"This friend of yours, what is she like?"

"Robin? She is a strange one as well. Halfborn like me. It's not my place to tell about her powers as I don't know the full extent of it." Chopper answered diligently. What he spoke is true. It is forbidden to reveal the extent of anyone's powers. It is an unspoken rule to all Raftelians. No beasts would dare to reveal their complete ability to anyone, except to their mates. Chopper did not mention that.

"I will be telling you more of it tomorrow. It would be best for the three of you to rest. We have to prepare for our journey to Raftel."

===XXX===XXX===XXX===

"Your highness, we came to provide you with information from our patrol." Dragonoids whose names are Johnny and Yosaku shouted outside of the chamber of the ruler of Vaelon. The chamber is as large as a cave, able to fit at least three fully grown dragons. This is where the High Prince of Vaelon sleeps.

"Wake him carefully, you fools!" One of the royal guards hissed in a low tone at the two Dragonoids. "It is bad to wake him from his sleep."

"He always sleeps." Yosaku reasoned. They knew Zoro well, as they trained under his care. The Vaelonian Dragons knew that a dragon must not be woken during their sleep as that will result in turning into a pile of ash but the rule does not apply to Johnny and Yosaku. They trust the High Prince not to burn them… probably.

GRRR…

A loud growl can be heard inside the chamber. The royal guards shivered, not Johnny or Yosaku.

Slowly, the creatures present stepped back as the huge double doors slowly creaked, opening and revealing what was inside.

It is dark. All they could see is the predatory eyes of the mighty dragon.

GRRR…

A small puff of smoke was released from its mouth. The smoke snaked its way out of the chamber doors, further emanating his presence.

"What is it?" His voice resonated in the entire chamber.

"We have ceased any advances from any possible invaders off South. Humans had started to gather around the boundaries of our territory and we've apprehended them from further advancing." Johnny stated.

A growl of approval was heard from the High Prince.

"Is there any service we could offer you for the meantime, your Highness?"

"No. Just get back to your training. Be ready for our next hunt." There is nothing needed to be said as they are dismissed. The chamber doors are closing again, creaking noise sending shivers to their spines.

Once again, High Prince Zoro was left on his chambers to sleep.

As he looked at the huge window nearby, he longed for the days where his parents are still alive, well, and happy. For centuries, he lived alone in this chamber. It can be considered an advantage as he can keep the silence as well as the peacefulness of not being bothered, but at times, he longed for a company. Could he really find a person willing to stay with him for eternity as long as he lived?

Centuries past and there were no creatures he considered a mate. He searched for it, but there were none. He could think of how pathetic it sounded.

His father used to say: "A lone dragon is the most terrible thing in the world. You will be consumed by time. You must find your significant other, Zoro."

At that time, Zoro was so young and stubborn. He only cares about how he could challenge himself to be stronger than any dragons living in Vaelon, stronger than his ancestors, and most especially, stronger than his father.

Centuries later, here he is, strong and powerful, yet alone. There had been dreading feeling inside his heart – it's as if he has been missing something important that he should remember.

Would he ever find his mate? Will he be able to find a company or was he destined to live alone for the rest of eternity?

Those questions were left unanswered.

He would like to find out… But not now. This is not the time to dwell on such matters. It will come, eventually. He is hoping he would ready for it.

===XXX===XXX===XXX===

Robin stared at Chopper for a long time, contemplating on what must be done. The healer held his gaze to send a message that he – by all means necessary – will see through this plan.

"Chopper… This plan of yours, are you serious about it?"

"Yes." He answered.

Robin stared at him for a good measure of time before a sigh escaped her lips then replaced with a smile full of understanding and interest as to what this plan might bring.

"Alright. I will help you let them pass, but before that, won't you tell me their identities?" Robin asked. She is interested to know who these women are that made Chopper help them. Are they worth helping?

"They are sisters. Men are chasing after them, and wanted them dead due to the titles they hold."

"Titles?" Were they perhaps part of the nobilities?

"Yes. They are the princesses of Cresta." Robin is not surprised, but she did not expect this. The invaders of Cresta were cruel as they are prioritizing the subjugation of the Royal Family itself. How come these three managed to escape their clutches?

"The invaders wanted them alive. The soldiers themselves wanted to rape them and turn them into slaves. I cannot allow that. They do not deserve any of those harsh treatments." Robin looked at Chopper with concern. He must be seeing how difficult it is to suffer at the hands of your kinsmen.

"Okay. I will guide you through in a safe passage; possibly veil your presence from any creatures that you might encounter. Beware, they are humans. They can be identified easily by the Raftelians."

"I know. I have a plan for that. Thank you, Robin." With a nod, Chopper left her house and started his journey back to his hut.

As soon as he arrived, he saw how the three sisters are preparing for their journey. They helped Chopper pack everything he needed for their journey to Raftel.

"Chopper! You're back! How was it?" Luffia was the most enthusiastic out of the three. Chopper even wonders if she could feel sad at all which is a ridiculous thought as their situation speaks for itself. She might just be a strong woman able to shoulder what things needed to be done and he admired her for that – all three of them.

"Robin agreed on helping. Tomorrow, at the crack of the dawn, we will start our journey. Did you finish everything I asked?" As the three of them nodded, Chopper glanced at the herbs, plants, and medicines they all packed at various boxes.

The plan is to ship the plants they all prepared inside Raftel. The three of them will hide inside the wagon full of herbs. The plan is simple but quite risky as there would be guards that would be suspicious of the amount of herbs Chopper is transporting.

"Let's place these in the wagon. Afterwards, please take a rest. I don't want to strain your injuries as it is."

The three nodded. They have calmed down and accepted that this is the best choice for them, in the meantime, that is. For a longer duration, as they think more about their impending journey, they realize how surreal this situation is. They are about to see the world they imagined in the stories.

What is it like being inside that world?

What do they all look like?

Are the beasts as mighty as they said they were?

Questions flooded their minds at the mere thought of entering the world outside of the environment they knew.

As soon as they fixed all of the boxes in the wagon, they are asked to get as much rest as they could.

In their rest, dreams visited – unexpected dreams.

===XXX===XXX===XXX===

Ann looked at where she might be. A valley full of beautiful flowers surrounded her, a waterfall behind, trees glittering under the moonlight.

This is paradise.

The place is vaguely familiar to her, but she knew she had never been here before, but deep down her heart, something tells her this place is important. As for the reason why it is important, she does not know.

She started to walk around to see if her sisters are present but they were nowhere to be found.

"Sab! Lu!" she screamed, but the only answer she obtained is the echo of her voice resonating around the area.

This feels so real as if it is not a dream.

Could this possibly be caused by magic?

Who would cast such magic to her?

She began walking at the edge of the river.

As she looked at her reflection, she saw the flickers of blue flames above her.

Startled, Ann looked up but only saw a glimpse of that light. She followed the path until her eyes stopped as she is now directly looking at a man on the other side of the river.

Blue flames flickering on his body, emanating clear beauty she had never seen before.

Who is he? How did she not notice such presence?

The man is standing sideways. Does he know that she is looking at him?

Ann studied the man. Tall stature and blond hair – his clothes consist of purple long sleeve shirt, a blue sash around his black pants which were paired with leather boots.

This man is giving the vibes of a leader that Ann had never seen before. She wonders who the man is.

It took a while before he turned his back on her as if observing the environment he is in. Was the man also wondering how he ended up here?

Ann was about to call the man when a voice from somewhere stole her focus.

"Ann! Wake up! We have to leave!" She knew that voice. It's Chopper calling on her.

She looked behind her and she saw a glowing light.

"Ann! Let's go! Let's go!" This time, it was Luffia's voice. Ann was about to answer, but she found out that she has no voice at all.

"Why does she have to sleep like an oil?" This time, Sab murmured.

Ann subconsciously started to walk to the light where the voices are coming from. As soon as she stepped half of herself to the light, she hesitated. She looked back at the direction of the blond man. She is curious to know who he is.

The man is now facing her way. He reached out to her as if trying to call on her. She reached her hand out and decided to step back to face the man – whoever he is but the light is consumed her, warping her back to reality.

===XXX===XXX===XXX===

Sab found herself in the middle of nowhere. Thick woods are surrounding her. The moon above her was so full and bright, almost like the sun in the morning.

She looked up to the moon as if it could hold the answers to her questions.

Then, the unexpected happened.

Wings flapped in front of the moon, obscuring the light from her. She saw a wolf-like creature with wings soaring to the sky with a howl. It should be terrifying, but she finds it calming for some unknown reason.

It should terrify her, but it did not. She wondered why instead of being afraid, she finds it beautiful. She should be afraid as she stood in the middle of open ground, no defense weapons at her disposal to defend herself from that mighty creature.

Sab was in a trance. She wanted to stare at the creature for longer than necessary. It is rare for her to see such a magnificent beauty but as she blinked, it was gone, no traces at all.

She looked around in search of the creature, but she did not find it. Instead, she found herself being surrounded by wolves. They all came from the bushes, slowly walking their ways to her.

She had nowhere to run.

She stayed where she is.

The wolves walked closer, surrounding her in a circle in assurance to block any path available.

She should panic, but she did not.

She looked at the eyes of the wolves with a question. They seem to not have any animosity in killing her. Why?

The wolves started to walk slowly, circling her then they stopped.

The wolves at her back walked to regroup themselves with the others in front of her. They all formed a line.

She just stared at them with confusion.

Even more so as they started to bow their heads towards her.

Why are they bowing at her as if she is their queen?

The wolves looked up, not towards her but towards at something behind her. She hastily looked at her back. What she saw is the magnificent throne chairs intended for a king and queen.

She knew for sure that these chairs do not belong to Cresta as the throne chairs consist of silver irons that she hasn't seen. It consists of a black leather seat, the carvings looked delicate yet fierce. The symbol at its headboard stole Sab's curiosity.

It's a symbol of a wolf-like creature with wings of fire. The symbol took her breath away. Subconsciously, she started to walk towards the throne chairs. She stopped at the first few steps until she found herself in front of the chair which is supposedly dedicated to the queen.

She asked her inner self as to what she is doing.

She shouldn't be here.

She wanted to leave, yet she can't. She wanted to turn her gaze away from the throne chairs, but she has no will to do so. It's as if the chairs itself are calling to her.

She slowly reached her hand out to touch it but froze at the sudden voice.

"Who goes there?!" She retracted her arms back to herself and looked around her to find where the voice is coming from. "Who are you?" The voice is firm, authoritative yet curious. The man speaking must be behind her now. She wanted to face whoever this man is, but there is something that is stopping her from turning around.

"What are you doing here?" he once asked. Sab cannot find the will to answer him. Feelings unknown to her started to flood her heart. She can't explain it.

She exhaled, willing herself to be brave to face this man. Deep inside her, something is telling her that facing this man will change her life – forever.

As she was about to turn around, the forest clearing darkened, then a blinding light started to glow. Squinting her eyes, Sab shaded her eyes away from the blinding light.

As she blinked, the next thing she noticed is how she is lying on the bed in Chopper's hut.

===XXX===XXX===XXX===

Luffia is afraid of the dark. She always is because darkness reminds her of being alone and she despised being alone.

As it is, she finds herself in a huge open area that can pass as a balcony only if it weren't for the lack of fences. She wonders why it is so huge. She even wondered why the door behind her is huge as well as if it was made to fit a huge creature. She started to walk near the entrance only to hear a loud growl. Startled, she stepped back, heart pounding heavily in her chest.

She is nervous, scared, excited, all at the same time. She can't understand the feelings.

A huff of smoke was released inside the dark room. Once again, Luffia was frozen to where she is. The moonlight heavily lighting her and the gush of winds is blowing coldly at her. Her hair swayed at the will of the wind.

A roar startled her once more. The flap of the wings behind her made the winds stronger than ever had awoken her senses. As she looked up, to whatever it is that is behind her, she is surprised to see the creature she admired since she was a child. A wonderful sight to hold.

Another creature appeared. This time, a dragon that resembles a serpent. One by one, many different dragons appeared. Dragon with different bodies and forms, but still, their sight is a beauty to every eye.

They danced with their elements, fire, water, wind, earth, lightning.

Luffia gasped. The dragons roared as if they are calling for someone.

Luffia looked behind her. Could it be that their king is inside this chamber?

With no qualms on the situation, Luffia stepped inside the chamber. Her senses were dull. She walked straight to the darkness until she saw the small flicker of light, allowing her to see the largest dragon she had ever seen.

It is sleeping.

Luffia walked closer to the dragon. Did it not notice her presence?

The dragons outside are still calling for this one. He has to go to his brethren.

Luffia reached her hand out and touched the dragon's face, then she whispered: "Wake up. Your brethren are waiting for you."

The dragon opened its eyes, confused.

It growled but proceeds to stand up as if she is not present at all.

It started to walk, ignoring her. It can't see her.

"Hey!" she shouted, but her voice did not reach him. Does she need to whisper into his ear for him to hear her?

The dragon spread its wings then flew off to the sky. All the dragons roared in rejoice. Their leader had joined them in their dance. Luffia was left in the chamber in confusion. Why can't he see her?

A sigh escaped her lips. There is no use in dwelling on questions that can't be answered.

She lifted her head then something caught her attention. Three swords are displayed. Did that dragon own the swords? She is not fond of swords, but she can appreciate its beauty.

She started to walk towards the swords to take a better look but unfortunately, her dream shifted, warping her away from the chamber.

The next time she opened her eyes, she is now in the middle of an open grass field. Looking around to search for anyone, she found none.

As she looked behind her, she saw the familiar palace she grew up with.

She started to run to the palace's direction but she stopped dead on her tracks upon seeing the dragon at the chamber flapping its wings near the balcony, then a woman holding a baby in her arms stepped in the balcony to face the dragon.

The woman is not just any woman. It's Luffia's mother – Queen of Cresta.

Why is she on the balcony? Does she know the dragon? How?

Luffia continued to stare at them. It appears that her mother is uttering some words she can't comprehend.

Rouge still held the baby in her arms. She is speaking to the dragon, then she presented the baby to the dragon. Luffia was beyond astonished. What is the meaning is?

After a while, the dragon flew off leaving her mother and the baby. The queen then started to go back inside the palace – but before doing so, she stopped in her tracks and looked directly at Luffia.

Their eyes met. Luffia is sure of that.

Rouge smiled at her then proceed to walk inside.

"Mom!" She shouted but Rouge never turned her attention to her again. Luffia started to run towards the palace, but it seems the more she runs towards it, the more the distance grows. She kept running, but the distance is immeasurable until she can no longer reach it.

===XXX===XXX===XXX===

The crack of dawn came. The princesses started to prepare for their journey. Each of them carries thoughts of their own. Vague thoughts that they could not point out. They vaguely remember their dreams last night. Fragments remained, but almost all of it is gone.

Ann could only remember the blue light in her dreams. She could vaguely remember the place she was in before. The rest are vague, it's as if someone took those memories away.

Sab is in the same state. All she could recall are the wolves. Wolves reminded her of Achilles. Could he be in Raftel? But she is sure that none of the wolves around her is Achilles. What could those mean?

Luffia kept thinking of the chamber. Surprisingly, she could still recall how it looked like despite the darkness, and then the dragons. Do they look the same as in her dreams?

"Are you all ready?" Chopper asked. He earned a nod from them. They all went inside the wagon and hid inside the box of herbs. As soon as they found a comfortable position, Chopper went in front to man the horse itself. He could transform so he could carry the plants, but he would want to conserve his energy as much as possible.

Chopper followed the path where the borders of Ipraecia and Vaelon lies. Beogia is a risky path as Chopper knew that they are skilled hunters through the land. He cannot risk being sniffed at as he knew too well how suspicious the Beogians are.

They continued to travel for what seems to be an hour. They are still far from the entrance of Raftel. They have to travel for at least 6 hours before arriving at the entrance then as soon as they are inside Raftel, they have to travel for another two hours before arriving at his hut.

There are faster ways travels and that is through the magic portal. The only reason why Chopper chooses to travel through land instead of the portal is due to the risk it may involve. Mages of Raftel might take notice of the presence of three humans with him and he cannot risk that.

If they travel through lands they still have to get past the barriers itself which have its enchantments and spells. He could overwrite its spells.

After two hours of travel, he decided to let the horses rest for a moment. They have been running at full speed since their departure.

"We can rest for half an hour, then we can resume our journey." Chopper whispered in the little window behind him.

The window opened and revealed Luffia smiling face.

"Are we there yet?"

"No, we still have to travel for at least 8 hours before we arrive at my house."

"Aw. I thought we would be there already. We've been traveling for ages!"

"Luffia, it's only been two hours since we started to travel. Don't be impatient." Ann scolded Luffia in a whispered tone. Chopper laughed at their exchanges. He has been far too used to the conversations that he can now laugh freely at them.

He was about to answer them when he heard hustles and voices not too far from where they are.

"Ssh. Someone's coming." He warned them. Immediately, Ann and Sab grabbed Luffia as they hid inside the wagon.

Chopper's heart is beating frantically. Thoughts kept running through his mind.

As far as he is concerned, these paths are almost deserted. He, along with other healers in Raftel are the only ones consistently using this path, unless the risk of invaders had led to the decision of patrolling these areas as well.

That is a logical decision. Warriors might have been dispatched around the borders to see if there would be invaders lurking around.

This made this journey risky. He started to act like he is looking for any plants and herbs around. As he pretended to do so, he heightened his senses. They are coming. 5 warriors. He could sense them coming closer. He knew he cannot win a fight against these creatures. How should he protect the princesses?

"Tony Chopper." One creature called out. Chopper looked at the five warriors in front of him. Wire, one of the Warrior Commanders of Beogia, Thatch, one of the Warrior Commanders of Ipraecia, Johnny, Warrior Commander from Vaelon, the other one is a werewolf which Chopper remembered during his first encounter with Wire a few days ago. As for the other one, it seems to be someone from Vaelon. All of them are in their human forms.

"Commanders." Chopper greeted with respect. Thatch is a friendly creature, after all, Ipraecia was known to be kind towards Halfborns in Raftel. Johnny is on neutral grounds. Unless provoked or within strict orders or anything that may be identified as a breach in the laws within Raftel, he would not lift a finger on him but Wire is not. He is suspicious of him from the very beginning. Beogian had been known to be wary of anything that has something to do with humans.

"What are you doing in these parts, mate? Don't tell me, you plan to travel to the entrance through the land?" Thatch questioned. His tone is friendly, almost in a humorous manner but despite that, Chopper is not at ease. So as the three sisters hiding in the wagon.

The twins looked at each other with worries in their expressions. They can fight, but there would be no guarantee that they will win. Sab's mind is full of possibilities as to what the outcome may be. They prayed to all Gods and Goddesses to guide them in this situation. They prayed that Chopper will not be put in danger just because of them.

"Yes. There are herbs I must obtain for further study along the way which is why I am traveling through the land." Chopper is not lying, not entirely. He wanted to get a few herbs along the way, but the main reason for his travel is because of the princesses.

"You could have used the portal. I am sure, you must be aware of such a method." Wire said with scrutiny. Chopper winced at his tone. Wire is suspicious. Has he picked the smell of humans?

"I am planning to use it once I obtained the herbs." Chopper is running out of options as it is. He is hoping they would leave him be.

"Then we can accompany you! It is dangerous these days. Invaders might be lurking around." Thatch offered to him. Chopper wanted to refuse, but if he does, it will be suspicious but if he agreed, he will risk the discovery of the princesses.

The princesses tried to remain as calm as they could. They are holding their breaths while listening to the conversation. Chopper mentioned the risks of traveling through the portal as they will be detected. That would be a huge risk of discovery.

"I appreciate the offer, but I don't want to be a bother to your duties. Besides, I still need to go further South as the herbs I needed are also present in that area."

"Oh, can you please relax for a bit? You are not a bother. It is never a bother to escort the Royal Healer back in Raftel." Chopper willed himself to relax. Thatch had no ill intent, more specifically; he is offering a good proposition. Chopper had good relationships with the Peace Keeper as he is in charge of his health. Thatch is close to the Peacekeeper, so as High Prince Marco but Chopper's interactions with Marco are not as friendly as his interactions with Zoro.

As for High Prince Kidd, they are more or less civil and Chopper is scared of him.

"The High Princes had issued an order to evacuate every resident dwelling outside of the inner borders. I believed I informed you of such information a few days ago." Wire sternly said.

"Chopper, it would be best to get the herbs you required and immediately evacuate. Other teams would be patrolling this area, and as such, they might question you for being present here." Johnny stated. He is trying to convey a message that clearly states to not oppose Wire to avoid conflicts.

"Yes, I will, As soon as I get the herbs, I will immediately go to the inner borders. Now, if you will excuse me, I must obtain the herbs as fast as I could." Chopper bowed then turned his back at the warriors. He hastily made his way back to the wagon and climbed to man the horses.

Before he could will the horses to start moving, Wire spoke.

"You seem to carry a lot of baggage with you, Healer." Chopper tensed as Wire started to walk towards the wagon.

Sab covered Luffia's mouth in fear that they will hear their breathing. All of them closed their eyes as if waiting for the inevitable. Would their lives end here? Would they meet their end without reclaiming their kingdom?

"These are the herbs I collected in my hut. The immediate evacuation to the inner borders had given me no choice but to transport everything I had."

"Is that so?"

Chopper did not answer. He nervously stared at Wire who has his hands on the wagon. Chopper clenched at the reins of the horses. He does not know what will happen if they were discovered. The highest possibility is execution.

Wire looked back at him. His eyes state that he will be keeping an eye on him.

"We will expect you at the portal, Healer."

Chopper reluctantly nodded before he willed the horses to go.

The princesses heaved a sigh as soon as they felt that the wagon had started moving. As soon as they deemed it safe to speak, they called out to Chopper.

"Chopper.."

"We can't use the portal. They can detect your presence." Chopper stated. He continued to will the horse to run.

"They will be more suspicious of you if you refuse. Coming to Raftel is a mistake. It will bring you harm, Chopper." Sab insisted. They can't bear the idea of putting him in harm. The idea of someone getting hurt just because of them is unthinkable.

"I will contact Robin, as soon as we are far away from Wire." Chopper answered.

They all fell silent as their journey continued. After an hour of journey, Chopper decided to let the hoses continue to rest. He then proceeds to contact Robin. Their plan of continuing in this route is not deemed safe. He needs other options.

Chopper muttered an incantation to communicate with Robin.

The three sisters peeked at the small hole to see what Chopper is doing. They saw the flickers of images and sceneries in front of him and seconds later, they saw the image of a beautiful woman looking directly at Chopper. She must be Nico Robin, the person he highly speaks of.

"Chopper. It is a little early for your notice."

"There have been changes, Robin. I chanced upon Warrior Commanders from Ipraecia, Beogia, and Vaelon. They are scouting the area. More so, Wire is getting suspicious of me and dared me to take the portal instead of traveling through the land." Chopper said.

"That is quite unexpected. They seem to be quite hasty if they sent the Warrior Commanders in patrol duty." Robin thought for a moment. It does not bode well to have warriors of such quality wandering around during their journey.

"Wire wanted me to take the portal." Chopper said. "I don't have enough means to hide their presence should I take the portal. You know they can easily be detected without the proper spells."

The three princesses continued to listen to the conversation. It seems the portal as what Chopper spoke of is more magical and complicated than they thought. So basically, Raftel had its barriers enchanted to detect humans entering the borders.

"Yes. I will see what I can do. Go to one of the portals 10 miles Southwest by noon. I will ensure to lower the enchantments to avoid large scale detection. I will be sending you a message once I ensured the enchantments."

"Thank you, Robin. I owe you a lot."

"Chopper, say thank you for us too!" Luffia shouted. As she did, the twins looked at their sister with stern looks on their faces as they uttered her name.

The two halfborns stopped their conversation.

"Oh, is that one of the princesses?"

"That's Luffia, the youngest. She is excited to meet you." Chopper answered as he looked at how the youngest princess is smiling through that small window while her sisters are scolding her that she should never interrupt a serious conversation.

"Please tell her that I am also excited to meet her." Robins said before the image faded.

Chopper turned his attention to the sisters.

"She is also excited to meet me! Did you hear that?" Luffia is beyond excited to meet another person that she could call a friend. As a princess, there has been a lack of people that wanted to befriend her. It is either they are getting close due to her political power or they will get close to you to inflict influence.

"Yes, yes. Will you please calm down already? I swear to all gods and goddesses of Raftel, you are so full of energy that it should be illegal." Ann muttered in an annoyed tone. Ever since Luffia was born, she has been blessed with so much energy that people around her cannot keep up. She has been the smiling glory of Cresta.

"I am excited to meet her. Chopper, will I be able to meet some of your friends? Will they become my friends as well?" Luffia innocently asked.

"I am not sure, but some of them might like you." He answered and instantly, he earned himself a bright smile from the youngest princess.

"Then what are we waiting for? We should go to this portal, or whatever it is!"

"Fool! It's not that easy! It needs preparation. Do you ever have a sense of danger?" Sab punched her on the head as she scolds her. Luffia always forgets trivial details of whatever they have which is why the twins are always watching out for her as she is attracting trouble to herself.

"But Robin says she will help so there should be nothing to worry about, is there?" Ann, Sab, and Chopper stared at her in wonder. How could she have so much faith in a person she had never met before? The twins spent years of asking how Luffia's mind works, but her logic defies normality. It defines irregularity.

"We suppose." They all answered. Satisfied, Luffia gets back to her original position. Chopper once again mounted on the wagon and off they go to the portal.

It took hours before they arrived at the portal. Some guards are stationed which is to be expected but what they did not expect is the presence of Wire and Heat – another Warrior Commander from Beogia – to be present in the portal.

Chopper tensed especially when the Warrior Commanders of Beogia looked at him with expectations and suspicions. How is he supposed to get past the portal?

"Healer. We see you chose to take the portal back to Raftel." Wire greeted. Chopper nodded at them with respect.

"Yes. I was able to obtain herbs and as I mentioned before, I will be using the portal."

"Very well. Why don't you go ahead now, Healer? I am sure, you are hasty in going back to your laboratory for your medical studies." Chopper could almost see how Wire is tempting him to refuse. He is throwing bait at Chopper.

The healer thought for a moment. Robin has not signaled anything at all. He can't get past the portal without Robin's alterations. If he does, he will be putting the princesses at risk.

He has to stall time.

"I will. Thank you for the offer. Let me check on my boxes at the back to ensure it will not be messed during the transportation."

"Do you require our help, then?" Heat asked.

"Thank you, but I can manage."

"But we insist, Healer. We are sure you are not hiding anything out there that will hinder you from letting us help, or are you?"

Chopper cannot say no. He fell in the trap they had set up.

"O-Of course not. Follow me, then." Chopper leads them at the back of the wagon. What welcomed them is the sight of boxes of herbs and plants used in medicine. "I just need to make sure that the boxes near the wagon tail will not fall off as it had been wrecked during my journey."

The Warrior Commanders nodded as they started to arrange the boxes of plants. Wire went as far as to check the innermost part of the wagon, near the small window at the back of the driver.

Chopper swallowed whatever liquid present in his mouth.

Wire continued to check every nook and cranny of the wagon, then…

"What is this?"

Chopper's heart had gone crazy as if he is experiencing a heart attack. He could swear to himself that he went deaf because of his heart rate.

"What is it?" Heat asked. Chopper willed himself to calm down and deal with this situation. Scenarios are happening through his head. What if they bring the princesses for execution on the grounds? What if they decided to feed them to the wolves? Chopper has always been afraid of the wolves especially the Wolf Lord. What if they banished them from eternal punishment in Lusronia? The place known as living hell?

What if they decided to kill the three princesses and himself included right here and then?

Chopper cannot comprehend what to do should those scenarios happen.

He clenched his fists tightly, waiting for judgment.

Wire turned around, a disgusted look on his face as he looked at the certain pot of plant with worms swarming around.

Chopper cannot comprehend how many times he blinked as he realized that Wire is merely talking about the plant on his hands. They haven't been found yet.

"What is that disgusting plant you carry?!" Heat covered his sensitive nose, face contorted with disgust at the plant.

"That is for healing. That plant can be used to cure headaches if it were mixed with other substances." Chopper answered diligently. He looked to where Wire is standing by. There is a hatch at the wagon floor where the sisters are currently located. Chopper just hoped he won't step on it.

"Ugh. I hate that smell." Wire put the plant down and started to walk out of the wagon. Chopper willed himself to hold the sigh of relief as Wire seems to have not noticed the hatch.

"You're free to go. Make sure you put your plants away properly." Chopper could only nod. Wire and Heat started to get back to their position with the firm indication to let Chopper through.

They had survived the first obstacle. The second one waiting for them is more difficult. Robin hasn't contacted them and provided the signal that they could now go through the portal. They have to wait for a while.

"What are you still waiting for, Healer? You can go through the portal now." Heat stated. Chopper could only nod. He could not let them know that he is still waiting for something to happen as that would deem suspicious.

"Are you still waiting for someone, Healer?" Wire asked. His suspicions might have lowered but he is still showing animosity towards Chopper which indicates he still does not trust the Halfborn.

"Ah, no. I'll go right away." Chopper sat in his position, his nervousness still did not disappear, rather, it grew stronger.

How could they get past the portal without detection? Robin still hasn't provided them the signal and without any enchantments, the princesses will be detected which can be considered an invasion.

Chopper had no choice. He willed the horses to go through the portal with the prayers sent to all deities available to guide them safely.

Please, let us be safe. Please, guide us safely.

Those were his silent prayers as they went through. The horses' bodies disappeared, then next was his body until the portal is swallowing the whole wagon, transporting them to Raftel.

Chopper closed his eyes and as soon as he opened them, the familiar sight greeted him.

Green trees, beautiful flower fields, gigantic falls everywhere, little pixie fairies flying around, creatures happily talking to one another, and the Central Palace is within eyesight. At each far end stood the palaces of three kingdoms. Ipraecia on the right, Beogia on the left and far behind from the Central Palace is Vaelon.

Everything is as beautiful as what it used to be.

"Chopper, we stopped. Is something wrong?" a whisper from behind him was heard, it was Sab's voice.

"Are we there yet? Can we go out now?" Luffia eagerly asked.

Chopper smiled. It appears that they have not been detected and so far, no one is nearby, except for the creatures they can see below from where they are.

"We are not yet at my place, but we are already in Raftel." Chopper opened the window behind him to let them see the magnificent sight.

The three sisters were beyond amazed at the sight in front of them. It is beyond what they have imagined in their minds. They could see a whole different world from what they grew up to.

Paradise is a more appropriate term for this world.

"We still have to travel for several minutes before we arrive at my house. Please wear the necklaces I provided to each of you. In this world, all of the creatures are sensitive to the smell of humans. The necklaces should hide almost all of your scent." They all nodded.

Chopper closed the windows one more time and willed the horses to travel down the road.

The portal brought them to the cliff where his house is the closest. There are a lot of portals in Raftel which can bring you different locations.

As they travel down the road, Chopper was greeted by some creatures, mostly his previous patients. The greetings and small talk delayed them of their arrival.

It took them nearly an hour before they arrived at Chopper's house. It is situated on a hillside, mostly isolated from other creatures. Chopper inspected the area around in case someone is nearby. As soon as he deemed it safe for the princesses to come out, he called out to them.

"You can come out now." Instantly, the hatch opened revealing the head of the youngest princess hose excitement cannot be contained. She immediately went out of the wagon with the twins' shout like whispers to reprimand her.

"Luffia! Be more subtle, you fool!"

"Hahaha. Chopper said it is okay to come out." She said.

"You don't have to be hasty. And lower your voice, someone might hear us!" Ann shouted. She must have not contained her outburst as her voice is louder than Luffia's.

"If we will be discovered due to someone shouting, it won't be due to Luffia's voice, but rather yours." Sab pointed out as she followed Luffia outside. Ann answered with the roll of her eyes, a blush decorating her cheeks as a result of embarrassment. As soon as Sab is out, she followed.

The sight was something to cherish for the rest of their lives. The view they saw almost an hour ago does not hold a candle compared to what they are currently witnessing.

No words escaped their mouths as their eyes are busy marveling at the sight, engraving it deeper into their memories.

"It's beautiful." Ann muttered. Her eyes felt heavy for some reason. Warm feelings started to swell inside them. They cannot fathom what emotions they held, but they knew they are happy as it is. Their happiness cannot be contained.

"I will try my best to let you see other places aside from here. We should still plan how we could go through this." The three nodded. Everything is not done yet. They have yet to initiate a plan on how they could stay in this place in the meantime. They are lucky that they have not been detected from the barrier and no one noticed their arrival… Or so they thought…

===XXX===XXX===XXX===

Ipraecia's Royal Palace:

Marco's hands blazed in blue, reacting to… something. He felt warm as if something touched his heart.

His phoenix instincts are shouting at him but he cannot hear it nor can he understand it. All he could comprehend is his phoenix instincts are shouting at him to do something. But what is that something?

He felt confused. His powers are growing warmer which shouldn't be the scenario as it is. His fire is cold, not warm.

Marco is trying to calm himself. This is the scenario Thatch witnessed.

"Whoa – Marco, why are you radiating your powers like that?" Thatch never bothered with his title as they had been like a brother to him – an annoying brother to be precise.

"I am not doing it on purpose, yoi! It just burst out all of a sudden." He answered then he forcibly shut down his power and he remained in his human form.

"Really? Maybe, you are sensing your mate somewhere.~" Thatch raised an eyebrow at Marco. His eyes filled with enthusiasm about the idea of Marco's mate as it has been an ongoing subject for decades. For several decades, Marco has been without a mate. He does not know why, but he does not feel any reaction towards anyone around. Suddenly, the image of the woman who kept invading his dreams came to his mind.

"That is impossible Thatch. It has been centuries since my coming of age, yoi, and I haven't felt any reaction towards anyone in Raftel in that duration. What makes you say that this is a reaction towards my mate?"

Marco does not want to hope today and lose it tomorrow. There had been creatures in Raftel that died after centuries of living without a mate by their side. It is a lonely life, and Marco is afraid of such a life, yet he does not show it to his brethren. He cannot be weak in front of their eyes for he is the symbol of peace in Ipraecia.

"Come on, Marco. You can't kill your hope as easy as that! You can find your mate in time. Besides, you are not the only one who hasn't found a mate. Kidd and Zoro too, if I may say so myself." Thatch humorously stated. He sat at the nearby couch, observing Marco as he stood in his balcony.

Marco remained quiet. That had been a wonder for everyone in Raftel. Why of all creatures in Raftel did the three High Princes had such fate? A creature with no mate is such a terrible thing to happen, most specifically to the Royalties. They must have someone to carry their blood through the next generation and above all, they are leaders of their brethren. A lone leader is no leader at all.

"Have you ever considered the possibility that your mate could be human?"

Marco froze. He looked at Thatch with eyes full of questions and hesitation.

His sworn brother shrugged and left him in his chamber with the question in the thin air.

===XXX===XXX===XXX===

Beogia's Royal Palace Grounds:

A jolt left Kidd's shoulders as his nose had picked up some sort of smell he had never smelled before. He tried to search for it, but he cannot find the smell he was looking for. The scent got mixed in his surrounding making it hard for him to figure which way it came from.

The scent is different. Alluring, mesmerizing, and seductive. He can't quite explain the scent as it is. Where could it have originated? His instincts are telling him to find it, to obtain that scent, to make it his own yet he cannot find it.

A grunt has called Kidd's attention. As he looked at the source of the grunt, his reddish-brown eyes met with the blue ones.

"What is it, Achilles?"

Achilles did not answer. Instead, a sly look of amusement appeared in his eyes as if to indicate that he knows something Kidd does not. The High Prince frowned at Achilles.

"Achilles…" he growled at the Wolf Lord.

Achilles only grunted at him. The Wolf Lord is dead set on keeping his silence. He would not tell Kidd anything.

"You wouldn't tell me anything, would you?" He growled once more. Achilles held his gaze at Kidd. Achilles lowered his gaze and Kidd gave up his persuasion. He will not get anything from someone who is not willing to tell him anything.

Kidd trusted Achilles. He has been his companion for years. Achilles' parents were companions of Kidd's parents. They died years ago when Achilles was still a pup. Their deaths had caused Achilles to grow slower than most wolves his age. He hid away from the world for centuries, slumbering.

It wasn't until 15 years ago that he emerged from his hiding with an injured foot and red ribbon with the name Achilles on it.

Kidd wanted to be angry with the wolf as it did not fight back the loneliness of losing his parents as Kidd did. He wanted to be angry as to why Achilles left him to grow up on his own without his companion, yet he cannot.

"Scent…Mate…" Achilles spoke to Kidd through their telepathic connection. The High Prince looked at Achilles with anticipation.

"Do you know this scent?"

"Who knows…" He answered, then he left Kidd alone.

Kidd stood where he is.

Scent… Mate…

Could it be the scent of his mate? But that is impossible! He has not felt anything for decades, why now?

Could it be that some creature in Raftel came of their age? Then who? Why didn't he felt anything before this?

"Someone can be found if it is willed to be."

Kidd looked at the direction where Achilles left.

Then the memories of when he was reunited with Achilles came to his mind.

The scent he smelled just now, it is familiar. It is almost the same scent he smelled when he first met Achilles after years of his isolation.

Could it be that Achilles know his mate?

Why did he not say anything until now?

Who could be his mate?

===XXX===XXX===XXX===

Vaelon's Palace – above the sky:

Zoro flew in circles. Clouds are being swept as they came in contact with his wings. As he flaps his wings to maintain his balance, the winds grew stronger than ever.

From above the sky, he slowly flew downwards to where his palace is located. Aboveground, he saw how small it is. The closer he gets, the bigger it looks.

As he continued to stare at his palace, suddenly a memory jolted in his mind. The memory of a certain palace, not his nor belongs to the Raftel, but someone's palace. He remembered he was at the palace balcony waiting for someone.

Who is he waiting for?

Whose palace it this and why is he here?

The memories are hazy – making him earn a headache.

He shook his head and tried to calm himself. As soon as he gained his focus, he realized how close he is to crashing to the ground. He almost panicked but he willed himself to concentrate.

He positioned himself into a perfect balance as he flapped his wings to gain stability. He flew above the forest near his palace, jolting the animals and creatures that lived there. Zoro continued to fly in the lower grounds until he decided to land at the nearby cliff where he could directly see his palace.

A nostalgic feeling crept through his entire body the more he thinks about the palace in his hazy memory.

His instincts are telling him to remember something he forgot for several years, but how is he supposed to remember something he does not know about?

Zoro shook his head to gain his focus back. He cannot afford to lose focus. It is a weakness for every warrior to lose their focus on something unnecessary.

"You looked troubled, boy." Zoro turned his gaze at the source of the words. He met the piercing gaze of Dracule, his mentor.

"I am not. It must be your imagination."

"Then was it my imagination that you lost focus during your flight? Or the fact that some of our brethren witnessed it too?"

Zoro turned his gaze away from his gaze as he growled in frustration. He did not utter any more words and fell silent.

"No one can fill the void inside your heart." Dracule continued to voice out. Zoro growled. He does not want to admit, but what his mentor said is true. No battles he fought can fill the longing inside his heart. No glory and victory can sustain the emptiness inside him. And no magic can bring back the lost memories he could never recall.

"You cannot attain whatever you are looking for if you don't open your mind to reality. You must accept it first. You can no longer shut down that feeling of longing for your lifetime companion."

As soon as the words reached Zoro's ears, Dracule left him to ponder on his words.

===XXX===XXX===XXX===