Chapter 3: The Weight of Allegiance
The streets of Whole Cake Island were abuzz with activity, the citizens bustling about their daily routines, blissfully unaware of the heated discussion taking place within the grand halls of Whole Cake Chateau. In the lavish dining room, adorned with towering cake sculptures and delicate sugar flowers, Charlotte Galette sat at the head of the table, her fingers drumming impatiently against the polished surface.
Her eyes narrowed as she regarded her siblings, Charlotte Cracker and Charlotte Smoothie, who had been summoned to discuss a matter of great importance. "So, let me get this straight," Galette said, her voice laced with skepticism. "Mama wants me to marry some random pirate captain just to strengthen our alliance?"
Cracker, ever the pragmatist, nodded curtly. "It's a strategic move, Galette. This Captain Sanmaru Rahzuki has made quite a name for himself in the New World. With his crew joining our ranks, we'll solidify our hold on the territory and gain access to their resources."
Smoothie, her towering frame lounging casually in a chair, took a sip from her endless glass of juice. "From what I've heard, he's no pushover either. A bounty of 900 million berries and the Gravity-Gravity Fruit? That's no small feat."
Galette scoffed, her eyes rolling in disdain. "Yeah, and he's also a virgin, or so the rumors say. Real impressive. But I guess 900 million says a lot. At least he's not a complete weakling"
Cracker couldn't help but chuckle at that. "Well, you'll have to rectify that situation, won't you, dear sister?"
Galette shot him a withering glare, her cheeks flushing slightly. "Laugh it up, Cracker. At least I'm not the one who got his ass handed to him by Firefist Ace half a year ago when we tried to take Banjo Island."
The mention of his humiliating defeat instantly wiped the smirk from Cracker's face, and he bristled visibly. "Watch your tongue, Galette. Lest you forget, I'm still above you in the hierarchy."
Smoothie, ever the voice of reason, intervened before the situation could escalate. "Enough, you two. Bickering won't change the fact that Mama has made her decision."
Galette sighed, leaning back in her chair. "I know, I know. But still, it's a lot to take in. Marrying a complete stranger, and one with such a... peculiar reputation."
Smoothie arched an eyebrow. "How so?"
"Well, from what I've heard, this Sanmaru Rahzuki is a bit of a hard-ass," Galette explained. "Temperate, diligent, vengeful, and patient to a fault. Not exactly the qualities you'd expect in a pirate captain."
Cracker snorted. "Sounds like a real stick-in-the-mud if you ask me."
"Maybe," Galette conceded. "But he's also resourceful, intelligent, and pragmatic. Apparently, he's got long-term plans that align with Mama's goals. And let's not forget, he's powerful enough to hold his own against Kaido's Calamities."
Smoothie nodded thoughtfully. "It's an intriguing prospect, I'll give him that. But you're right, Galette, marrying a stranger is no small ask."
Galette sighed, her fingers idly tracing the intricate patterns on the tabletop. "I just... I don't know what to expect, you know? Is he going to be some stuffy, overbearing control freak? Or will he at least have a sense of humor about all this?"
Cracker couldn't resist another jab. "Well, if he's as patient as they say, he'll have to be pretty damn understanding to put up with your attitude."
Galette's eyes narrowed dangerously. "Watch it, Cracker, or I'll–"
"Enough!" Smoothie's voice boomed, silencing the bickering siblings. "This is getting us nowhere. Galette, you're going to have to make the best of this situation, whether you like it or not."
Galette deflated, knowing her sister was right. "I know, I know. It's just... I never imagined Mama would arrange a marriage for me like this, let alone to a complete stranger. I mean I knew that one day Mama would get an arranged marriage for me if she found a Captain she wanted to join her crew. But knowing something but feeling it happen to you are completely different things"
Katakuri, Big Mom's eldest son and the respected Sweet Commander, stepped forward, his towering frame exuding an air of calm authority. "Sister, I understand your reservations, but Mother makes a sound decision. From the reports we've gathered, Rahzuki is a man of discipline and focus, traits that align well with our own values."
He paused, adjusting his scarf slightly. "And while his compulsion for vengeance is concerning, it is also a testament to his unwavering loyalty to those he considers his own. If we uphold our end of the bargain, we need not fear his wrath. "
"Plus we're pirates" remind Cracker tsking not seeing what the hassle was "Big Mom Pirates at that. In case you forgot getting revenge is something we do all the time"
Galette scowled. "So I am to simply accept this fate, then? To be bound to a man I know nothing of, all for the sake of our empire's ambitions?"
Smoothie, Galette's Older sister and fellow Minister but also Sweet Commander, spoke up, her deep voice rumbling. "Come now, sister, it could be far worse. At least the man is not a complete brute or imbecile. He is patient, intelligent, and from what we've gathered, a virgin at the ripe age of twenty-six."
A chorus of snickers and laughter erupted from the assembled Charlotte children, momentarily lifting the tension.
Galette flushed slightly. "You cannot be serious! How is that not a red flag? I mean I'm focusing on this because what kind of Pirate Captain literally is untouched at his age? Hell what kind of Pirate at that?"
Smoothie grinned wickedly. "Perhaps he is simply waiting for the right woman to bend him to her will. A challenge, if you will."
The laughter grew louder, even Katakuri struggling to hide his amusement behind his scarf.
Galette glared at her siblings. "You are all insufferable! This is no joking matter!"
XXX
After the discussion with her siblings Galette wanted to speak to her mother to request more information at the man whom she was to be matched with. Mama apparently decided to humour her and did so in the Queen's Chamber.
But this was still Mama. Yonko. Food Cravings and all.
The fist hitting the armrest on her throne said it all.
Big Mom slammed and silencing the room. "Enough of this insolence! Galette, you will wed Captain Sanmaru Rahzuki, and that is final. His crew's strengths complement our own, and the resources we can offer them will bind them to our cause."
She fixed her daughter with a piercing stare. "You are no mere pawn, my daughter. You are a Minister of the Butter, a pillar of our empire. This union is an opportunity for you to assert your strength and influence, to mold this alliance to our advantage."
Galette's defiant expression faltered slightly, her mother's words resonating within her. "You will bear him children, heirs to carry on his legacy and bind him to our family. And if he should prove disloyal or unworthy, we shall crush him beneath our might."
A tense silence filled the hall as Galette considered her mother's words. Finally, she nodded, her jaw set in determination. "Very well, Mother. I shall agree to this arrangement, but heed my words – I will not be a mere broodmare to this Captain Rahzuki. If he seeks my hand, he will earn my respect and loyalty, or face the consequences of crossing a daughter of the Charlotte Family."
Big Mom's lips curved into a satisfied smile, her eyes gleaming with a mixture of pride and ambition. "Excellent. Then it is decided. We shall welcome Captain Sanmaru Rahzuki and his Spectral Pirates into our fold, and with their strength added to our own, the seas of the New World shall tremble before the might of the Big Mom Pirates."
As the hall erupted into a chorus of cheers and revelry, Galette stood resolute, her mind already formulating plans and strategies. She would approach this union on her terms, bending this enigmatic Captain Rahzuki to her will, or breaking him utterly should he prove unworthy of the honor bestowed upon him.
The grand halls of Whole Cake Island was abuzz with activity as the various members of the Charlotte Family gathered or passed by each other. Among them was Galette's Twin, Charlotte Poire, a formidable woman in her late twenties, her expression a mixture of curiosity and apprehension.
Poire, sipping from a comically large mug, smirked. "So, it seems Mother has found a suitable match for you, dear sister. Why didn't you tell me? I'm your twin afterall"
Galette arched an eyebrow and sarcastically replied "Is that so? And who is this lucky suitor that Mother has deemed worthy of my hand? Should I be telling you every little detail off the top of my head from the moment I wake up?"
Snack, overhearing Poire with his deep voice rumbling, replied, "A pirate captain by the name of Sanmaru Rahzuki. He leads a crew called the the Spectral Pirates, and they've made quite a name for themselves in the New World these past few years."
Poire scoffed, crossing her arms. "A pirate? How charming. And I suppose Mother expects my sister to simply accept this arrangement without question?"
Pudding, twirling a lock of her hair, interjected, "Oh, come now, Poire. You know how Mother operates. She's always had a keen eye for potential alliances that could benefit our family."
"I'm well aware of her machinations, Pudding," Poire retorted. "But to marry Galette off to a complete stranger, regardless of his status or reputation? It seems rather...opportunistic, even for Mother."
"I'm more of a wait and see approach myself" shrugged Galette "I mean I'm not getting any younger. Might as well settle down"
"But still this man seems ... icontastical at best" diplomatically stated Pudding
Poire Snorted "You mean Fucking weird."
Snack's expression remained impassive as he ignored Poires comments "From what our sources have gathered, this Sanmaru Rahzuki is a formidable pirate in his own right. A Devil Fruit user with the ability to manipulate gravity, well rounded and powerful. Not to mention, his crew is known for their strategic prowess and loyalty to their captain."
Pudding chuckled. "That's one way to look at it, I suppose. Although, I've heard some rather...interesting rumors about our potential brother-in-law."
Seeing Poire's look of confusion, Pudding giggled behind her hand.
"Oh, you know, the usual sort of gossip that circulates in pirate circles. Apparently, despite his fearsome reputation and considerable power, our dear Sanmaru Rahzuki is...how shall I put this delicately...inexperienced when it comes to matters of the bedroom."
Poire's eyes widened. "You can't be serious."
Snake cleared his throat. "It would seem that the rumors are true. Our intelligence suggests that, for reasons unknown, Rahzuki has remained...untouched, shall we say."
A moment of stunned silence fell over the gathered siblings as they processed this unexpected revelation.
Poire just snorted "Oh this is going to be good"
Pudding smirked. "Now, now, dear sister. Don't be so quick to dismiss the prospect. After all, some might find a certain...appeal in being the one to introduce such a powerful man to the pleasures of the flesh."
Galette shot her sister a withering look. "Spare me your salacious implications, Pudding. This is hardly the romantic affair you seem to envision."
Pudding giggled. "Oh, come now, Poire. Where's your sense of adventure? Just think of it as...a new challenge to conquer!"
"Or you're stuck with basically a school boy fumbling in the dark" shot back Poire
Galette pinched the bridge of her nose in exasperation. "You're both insufferable."
Snack's tone turned pragmatic. "Regardless of his...inexperience, Rahzuki's crew and abilities make him a valuable potential ally. And Mother has made it clear that she expects this union to produce at least four offspring to strengthen our family's bloodline."
Galette's eyes widened once more. "Four children? This is the first time I'm hearing this. With a man I've never even met? This just keeps getting better and better. Why wasn't I told about this earlier?"
"Because the correspondence just less than an hour prior" answered Snack "Mama's delegated myself and Smoothie to hash out the general terms and conditions for Rahzuki to join the crew. That was just one of them. I wanted to see if you were satisfied with this before we commenced forward"
Poire grinned. "Well, at least you won't have to worry about him having any prior attachments or lingering affections. A clean slate, as it were."
Galette glared at her siblings. "You're all taking far too much amusement in my predicament."
Pudding patted Galette's arm consolingly. "Oh, don't be like that, sister. Think of it this way – at least you'll have the opportunity to truly mold this man into the perfect partner, free from any preconceived notions or bad habits."
Galette scowled. "That's assuming he's even capable of being molded in the first place. From what I've heard, this Rahzuki is a rather...headstrong individual, to put it mildly."
Snack nodded. "Indeed. A man of contradictions, it would seem."
Galette exhaled slowly. "Well, I suppose I don't have much choice in the matter, do I? Mother has made her decision, and we all know how she reacts to defiance."
Pudding shrugged. "Look on the bright side, sister. At least you'll have the opportunity to experience all the joys of being a bride...and perhaps even find some amusement in educating your new husband in the ways of the bedroom."
Galette shot Pudding a withering look. "Your attempts at levity are neither appreciated nor welcome, dear sister."
Pudding was apparently taking way too much satisfaction in her sister's plight if her impish looks perfectly matched her own thoughts. Then again that probably matched Whole Cake Island as a whole.
Pudding clapped her hands together in delight. "Oh, this is going to be such a grand affair! Just think of the wedding preparations, the festivities, the consummation..."
Galette held up a hand, cutting her off. "Please, Pudding, spare me the sordid details. I've already got enough to worry about without indulging your fanciful notions."
As the siblings continued to trade barbs and speculation, Galette found herself lost in thought. While she harbored no delusions about the political nature of this arranged marriage, she couldn't help but feel a twinge of apprehension at the prospect of being bound to a man she knew nothing about – a man who, by all accounts, was as formidable as he was enigmatic.
Still, she was a daughter of the Charlotte Family, and she would face this challenge head-on, as she had faced countless others throughout her life. And who knew? Perhaps there was more to this Sanmaru Rahzuki than met the eye. Only time would tell if their union would blossom into something more than a mere strategic alliance.
With a resigned sigh, Galette tuned back into the lively banter of her siblings, steeling herself for the journey that lay ahead – a journey into the unknown, bound to a man she had yet to meet, but whose reputation preceded him like a phantom on the high seas.
XXX
As the laughter and speculation continued to swirl around her, Galette found herself seeking solace in the counsel of her eldest brother, Perospero. The two siblings retreated to a secluded corner of the grand hall, away from the prying eyes and wagging tongues of their siblings.
"Brother," Galette began, her voice low and tinged with uncertainty, "I fear I may be in over my head with this arranged marriage."
Perospero regarded her with his typical cunning demeanor, but Galette could detect a flicker of concern in his eyes. "Galette, you are one of the strongest and most capable members of our family. If anyone can navigate this alliance successfully, it is you."
Galette sighed, running a hand through her hair. "But what if he proves to be more than I can handle? This Sanmaru Rahzuki is no ordinary pirate captain. His reputation precedes him, and his abilities are formidable. What if I cannot bend him to our will?"
Perospero placed a sadistic hand on her shoulder. "Then you break him, sister. You are a daughter of the Charlotte Family, a Minister of the Bakkin. You possess strength and cunning that few in this world can match. Do not doubt yourself."
The implication was clear to her brother. If sex wasn't working then she would find another way to mold him. Manipulation. Abuse. Whatever was needed for the family
Galette nodded, her resolve strengthening at her brother's words. "You're right, Perospero. I cannot afford to show weakness, not now. This alliance must be forged on our terms, and if Rahzuki proves unworthy or resistant, I will crush him without hesitation."
A small smile tugged at the corners of Perospero's lips, hidden beneath his collar. "That's my sister. Remember, you are not alone in this endeavor. We stand united, as always. Should Rahzuki prove to be a threat, we will deal with him accordingly."
Perospero's presence had always offered a different kind of reassurance than Katakuri's steadfast protection. His cunning mind and sharp wit brought a strategic depth to any challenge the Charlotte Family faced. As Galette stood beside him, she felt a surge of calculated confidence.
"Thank you, Perospero," she said, her voice tinged with appreciation. "Your insight is invaluable, and I know you'll have my back as we navigate this alliance."
Perospero smiled, his candy-like cane twirling in his hand, his expression painted with a sly assurance. "Always, Galette. We're more than just family; we're co-conspirators in this chaotic world. This marriage, this alliance—it will be advantageous for us. We'll manipulate it to our favor."
As they moved to rejoin the lively cacophony of their family, Galette's stride was imbued with a new purpose. With Perospero's manipulative genius guiding her, she was ready to approach the marriage not just with tenacity but with a masterful strategy, turning potential turmoil into a triumph for the Charlotte Family.
Perospero, ever the diplomat, stroked his candy cane mustache thoughtfully. "Perhaps it would be wise to approach this alliance with an open mind, sister. While the circumstances may be...unconventional, the potential benefits for our family cannot be ignored."
Her oldest sister Compote nodded in agreement "Perospero is right. This alliance could solidify our hold on the New World and provide us with valuable resources and territory. Not to mention, having a powerful ally like Rahzuki at our side could prove invaluable in our ongoing conflicts."
Galette couldn't deny the logic of her siblings' arguments. As a Minister of the Butter, she understood the importance of strategic alliances and the ever-shifting power dynamics of the New World. Still, the personal implications of this arranged marriage weighed heavily on her mind.
"I understand the strategic value of this union," she said, her tone measured. "But what of the personal cost? Mama expects me to bear this man children, to bind him to our family through blood ties. Am I really ready for this? Really ready to have children at that?"
Compote for a moment was quiet "It's not easy being a mother some days. Especially in a fucked up family like ours. I won't lie to you about that Galette. In fact I'm consistently surprised by how few of us are by definitions are sane, even though ..."
Compote glanced at the homies in the door.
"How sane we could be with a mother like ours" side-stepped Galette.
XXX
As Galette retreated into the sanctuary of her private chambers, the opulence around her felt suffocating rather than comforting. The towering cake sculptures that loomed in the corners seemed to mock her with their frosted smiles, and the delicate sugar flowers dusted along the mantelpiece reminded her of the fragility of her current situation. Despite her normally unshakeable demeanor, Galette found herself second-guessing her role within the grand designs of the Charlotte Family.
The room, filled with the sweet scent of confectioneries, was adorned with lavish draperies in rich hues of red and gold, reflecting the extravagance of Whole Cake Island. Crystal chandeliers cast a warm, golden glow over the space, but even their light couldn't chase away the shadows of doubt that clung to Galette's thoughts. The gentle hum of activity from the bustling streets below drifted through the open window, mingling with the distant melodies of a nearby patisserie.
She walked over to a large, ornately framed window that offered a panoramic view of Totto Land's vibrant landscapes. The sprawling candy-colored buildings, the lush, enchanted forests, and the winding rivers of chocolate were a testament to her family's dominion. As she gazed out, the bustling life of the kingdom did little to distract her from the turmoil within. Thoughts of Captain Sanmaru Rahzuki, a man both renowned and mysterious, swirled in her head like a stormy sea. How would he view their union? As a mere strategic alliance or something more profound? The uncertainty was uncharacteristic for someone like Galette, who thrived on control and predictability.
Her pacing resumed, each step echoing softly on the plush, intricately woven carpet that cushioned the floor. The room, usually a retreat, now felt like a gilded cage, enclosing her with the impending decisions that could reshape her future. She paused by a large, antique mirror, her reflection staring back at her—a mix of regality and vulnerability. This marriage wasn't just a union; it was a gamble with her destiny, and the stakes were as high as they could be.
A gentle knock at the door broke her reverie, and she turned to find her sister, Melise, peeking her head in.
"May I come in, sister?" Melise asked, her voice laced with concern.
Galette sighed, gesturing for her to enter. "Of course, Melise. I could use some sisterly counsel right about now."
Melise glided into the room, her eyes studying Galette's tense posture. "You seem troubled, Galette. This arranged marriage is weighing heavily on you, isn't it?"
Galette nodded, sinking into a plush armchair. "It's more than just the idea of being bound to a stranger. It's the idea of losing control over my own life, my own choices."
Melise perched on the edge of Galette's bed, her expression understanding. "I know this isn't what you wanted, sister. But you have to remember, we are daughters of the Charlotte Family. Our destinies have always been intertwined with the ambitions of our empire."
Galette scoffed. "That's easy for you to say, Melise. You're not the one being forced into a marriage with a man who, by all accounts, is a walking contradiction."
"Don't I?" shot back Melise to her sister.
Galette immediately realized what she had just said and backtracked. Of course. Melise had just been wedded a few months prior. Some important figure though Galette couldn't care to remember his name.
"You're right. You do know," admitted Galette. "But Rahzuki's still a walking contradiction."
Melise tilted her head quizzically. "A walking contradiction? What do you mean?"
"From what the others have told me, this Captain Rahzuki is a man of patience and diligence, but also one driven by vengeance and temperance," Galette explained, her brow furrowed. "How am I supposed to navigate such a complex personality, especially in the most intimate of circumstances?"
Melise considered Galette's words carefully before responding. "Perhaps that is the true challenge before you, sister. To understand the depths of this man, to unravel the contradictions that make him who he is."
She leaned forward, her eyes shining with a mixture of mischief and wisdom. "And who knows? Maybe, in the process, you'll discover something about yourself as well."
Galette arched an eyebrow skeptically. "You make it sound like some grand romantic adventure, Melise. This is a political marriage, a strategic alliance. There's no room for flights of fancy."
Melise giggled, her fingers toying with a loose strand of her hair. "Oh, Galette, when will you learn? Even in the most calculated of arrangements, there is always room for the unexpected."
Galette opened her mouth to protest, but Melise held up a hand, silencing her. "Think about it, sister. This man, this Captain Rahzuki, is unlike any you've encountered before. He's powerful, yes, but also enigmatic, his true nature shrouded in mystery."
She leaned closer, her voice dropping to a conspiratorial whisper. "And let's not forget the most intriguing detail of all – his apparent lack of experience in matters of the heart."
Galette felt her cheeks flush slightly at the implication, but she couldn't deny the spark of intrigue that flickered within her. "You can't be serious, Melise. Surely you're not suggesting that I... that we..."
Melise's lips curved into a mischievous grin. "I'm not suggesting anything, dear sister. Merely pointing out the possibilities that lie before you."
She stood, smoothing out the folds of her dress. "This arranged marriage may have been thrust upon you, but that doesn't mean you can't make the most of it. Embrace the challenge, Galette. Unravel the mysteries of this enigmatic pirate captain, and who knows? You might just find yourself on an adventure more thrilling than any you've experienced before."
With a wink and a swish of her skirts, Melise slipped out of the room, leaving Galette to ponder her words. As the scent of sugar flowers and the muted hum of the bustling island mingled around her, Galette felt a mixture of resolve and curiosity. This union, while unexpected and fraught with uncertainties, might just hold the key to a new chapter in her life—one where she could wield her own strength and uncover the hidden depths of Captain Sanmaru Rahzuki.
XXX
As the hours ticked by in her room, Galette found herself wrestling with the conflicting emotions that swirled within her. On one hand, she was a dutiful daughter of the Charlotte Family, bound by the expectations and ambitions of her mother's empire. To defy the arranged marriage would be to court disaster, a path she dared not tread.
But on the other hand, there was a part of her that couldn't help but be intrigued by the enigma that was Sanmaru Rahzuki. A man of such contradictions, a powerful pirate captain who had somehow managed to remain untouched by the world's carnal pleasures – it was a tantalizing mystery, one that piqued her curiosity in ways she couldn't quite articulate.
Galette rose from her chair, drawn to the floor-to-ceiling windows that offered a breathtaking view of Whole Cake Island's towering cake-like landscapes. The setting sun painted the skies in hues of crimson and gold, casting a warm glow over the sugary dreamscapes.
As she gazed out at the ever-shifting vista, Galette couldn't help but wonder what lay ahead for her. Would this arranged marriage be a mere political maneuver, a calculated move in the grand game of power and influence? Or would it be something more, a journey of self-discovery and personal growth?
Melise's words echoed in her mind, a whisper of possibility amidst the weight of duty and expectation. "Embrace the challenge, Galette. Unravel the mysteries of this enigmatic pirate captain, and who knows? You might just find yourself on an adventure more thrilling than any you've experienced before."
Galette shook her head, her brow furrowing. Such fanciful notions were unbecoming of a Minister of the Butter, a pillar of the Charlotte Family. And yet, the spark of intrigue refused to be extinguished, smoldering in the depths of her heart like a ember in the dying embers of a fire.
Perhaps it was her trying to find the silver lining in this whole situation before making teh jump. A leap into the unknown.
As the night drew in and the lights of Whole Cake Chateau flickered to life, Galette found herself torn between her sense of duty and the stirrings of desire, caught in the crucible of an alliance that promised to change the course of her life forever.
XXX
That night Galette had a dream. A dream about a journey with a man through an enchanted forest, where each step they take together breathes new life into the vibrant surroundings.
The forest, shrouded in an eerie yet mesmerizing glow, pulses with a mysterious energy, hinting at hidden powers and ancient secrets. And yet in a moment the dream shifts from the forest to a new environment.
A calm, moonlit sea.
The water is unnaturally smooth, reflecting the stars above in a manner that feels both serene and unsettling. Galette and the man sail together in silence, the vast expanse around them echoing with whispers of untold stories and unspoken fears. They share their pasts in quiet, measured tones, the revelations weaving a tapestry of mutual understanding and latent tension.
It feels ... peaceful. But it doesn't feel easy. In fact far from it. If feels like after a lifetime ... Galette and the man have found themselves content and happy with each other.
Galette doesn't know who the man is. Only that he exists. And she feels comforted by his presence. And him by her.
Was this love? Or was this being in love? Falling in love?
She didn't know. But she liked it
XXX
Galette woke up the next morning the dream left her feeling something she never felt before ... unguarded.
That befuddled her. Especially because she had never felt unguarded her entire life. Especially because she couldn't remember the man's face. Just the dream itself.