Disclaimer: I do not own One Piece.


THE WEIGHT OF THE TRUTH

Zoro felt a growing unease clawing at his insides. Nami's limp body weighed heavily on Luffy's back, her unconsciousness serving as a stark reminder of the urgency of their mission. Zoro's mind swirled with concern for his nakama, seriousness plastered on his features as he glanced at her.

The swordsman's thoughts drifted to the recent interactions with Nami, the subtle changes in her behavior that hadn't gone unnoticed by his sharp observation. There was an undeniable tension between them, an unspoken undercurrent that seemed to hover in the air whenever they were alone. He couldn't pinpoint its origin, but it weighed heavily on their interactions, casting a shadow over their camaraderie. Their usual banter and playful exchanges had become strained, replaced by an uncharacteristic silence that left Zoro with a sense of disquiet. Their interactions had become brief and guarded, as if something unsaid hung between them, invisible yet undeniable.

With each passing day, Zoro found himself stealing glances at Nami, searching for clues to decipher the enigma that had grown between them. Her usually vibrant eyes held a hint of sadness, and her smiles, though still radiant, seemed tinged with a trace of melancholy.

This situation bothered Zoro more than he could ever admit, even to himself. As a swordsman, he was accustomed to facing physical challenges head-on, but navigating the complexities of emotions was a different battle altogether. The unspoken tension with Nami gnawed at his thoughts day and night, distracting him from his usual focus. He couldn't shake the feeling that he had somehow contributed to this rift, even if he couldn't quite pinpoint how or why.

But there was another layer of complexity to their already intricate dynamic. He cherished their bond, and the thought of jeopardizing it weighed heavily on his heart. Her presence stirred something within him, and her absence left an ache in his chest—it was a feeling he struggled to define, a sentiment he couldn't fully comprehend. It was a mix of protectiveness, admiration, and an unspoken longing that danced at the edges of his consciousness, threatening to consume him if he dared acknowledge it.

He pushed these thoughts aside for the moment, knowing that their current mission took precedence, but he couldn't help but wonder how this uncharted territory would affect their future journeys together.

As they reached the pinnacle, Zoro's gaze swept across the sight before him, taking in the stunning view. The elder's house, though not imposing in size, had an unmistakable castle-like charm. Its walls, constructed from weathered stone, stood strong and proud, evoking a sense of grandeur. Towering turrets rose on either side, crowned with ornate spires that reached for the heavens. The house seemed to have been plucked straight out of a storybook, with its fairytale-esque design capturing the imagination.

A wide porch extended from the front of the house, providing a welcoming entrance to visitors. Supported by sturdy stone columns, the porch boasted an intricate pattern of mosaic tiles beneath their feet. Delicate vines crawled up the columns, their leaves whispering in the wind. Zoro noticed the presence of wooden benches on the porch, inviting weary travelers to rest. The porch's roof, adorned with intricate carvings depicting mythical creatures, shielded the entrance from the elements while adding an extra touch of elegance to the overall design.

Jinbe stepped forward, his towering figure casting a long shadow across the porch as he approached the entrance. He raised a sturdy hand and rapped on the door with a series of firm knocks. The sound echoed through the stillness, breaking the silence that enveloped the hilltop.

As if summoned by the knock, the door swung open with surprising swiftness, revealing the elder standing on the threshold. He was a figure of eccentricity, dressed in vibrant yellow robes that contrasted sharply against the muted colors of the landscape. His small brown eyes darted around, taking in the sight of the crew with an energy that seemed boundless.

The elder's appearance was striking, his once gray hair and long beard displaying remnants of a fiery ginger hue, now faded with age. His hair flowed untamed, framing a face that spoke of a life filled with adventures and wisdom. Lines etched deeply into his weathered skin, testament to the passing of time and the experiences that had shaped him.

When his gaze fell upon Nami, he exclaimed "FINALLY!" Chopper gasped with the unexpected greet, hidind behind Zoro's leg.

With a flourish of his hand, the elder gestured for the crew to enter the house, his eyes never leaving Nami's unconscious form. "Bring her inside quickly," he urged.

Jinbe nodded, carefully stepping inside the elder's abode, his broad shoulders blocking the door as the rest of the crew followed suit. The interior of the house exuded a sense of warmth and familiarity, the air tinged with the scent of aged books and mysterious artifacts. The walls were adorned with ancient maps and intricate tapestries.

The elder led them through a corridor adorned with flickering torches, their soft light casting dancing shadows on the walls. As they walked, Zoro noticed the shelves lining the corridor, filled with an assortment of curiosities and trinkets from various corners of the world. Shrunken heads, sea shells, and faded scrolls shared the same space.

They entered a spacious room, its centerpiece an ornate table covered in scattered parchments and maps, as if a storm of knowledge had recently passed through. The room was adorned with mismatched furniture, each piece seemingly chosen for its own peculiar charm rather than any cohesive design. The walls were adorned with paintings and portraits, capturing moments frozen in time.

The elder gestured for Luffy to gently lay Nami on a nearby couch. "She needs rest," he said, tense and restless. "We have much to discuss, but her well-being is of utmost importance."

Zoro's gaze fixed on Nami's pale face as the crew gathered around the couch, concern etched on their features. Beads of sweat dotted her forehead, evidence of the ordeal she had endured. Zoro clenched his fists, his worry intensifyed by the elder's urgency.

Meanwhile, the old man grabbed hold of a ladder leaning against the wall and ascended it with a surprising agility. His movements were swift and purposeful, as if he had performed this act countless times before. Zoro's attention briefly shifted to the elder, curious to see what he was retrieving from the top shelf.

At the top of the ladder, he reached for a small vial containing a shimmering liquid. He carefully descended, clutching the potion in his weathered hands. The corners of his mouth curled into a weary smile as he presented himself to the crew.

"Apologies for the chaos," He said, his voice carrying a hint of exhaustion tinged with excitement. "I am Gideon, a retired magical-treasure hunter."

Gideon's introduction was interrupted by a sudden burst of energy from Luffy. The rubbery captain puffed out his chest and flashed a wide grin, gesturing toward his crewmates with a sense of pride.

"And I'm Monkey D. Luffy, the future King of the Pirates!" Luffy declared, his enthusiasm filling the room.

Gideon chuckled warmly, his eyes sparkling with amusement. "Ah, Luffy, the tales of your exploits have reached even these secluded parts. I know more about you and your crew than you might think," he said, his words carrying a mysterious undertone that piqued everyone's curiosity.

Zoro exchanged a puzzled glance with his fellow crewmates, intrigued by Gideon's enigmatic words.

Setting aside the intrigue for the moment, Gideon turned his attention back to Nami, who lay motionless on the couch. With a gentle touch, he lifted her head and carefully administered the potion, his experienced hands cradling her fragile form.

"There, my dear, this should help restore your strength," Gideon murmured softly, his voice laced with tenderness. He placed the empty vial aside and focused his gaze on Nami, observing her closely.

Gideon's pale hand traced Nami's pained face with utmost gentleness, his touch almost reverent. As he caressed her cheek, a sudden outburst broke the moment.

"Hey, old man! Keep your hands off Nami-san!" Sanji's voice boomed, his eyes blazing with fury, ready to defend Nami's honor.

Gideon's gaze shifted from Nami to Sanji, his eyes welling up with tears that threatened to spill over. His voice quivered with emotion as he struggled to speak. "I-I apologize if I've overstepped my bounds," he stammered, his voice choked with sorrow and longing. "But please understand... I have been waiting for this moment for twenty long years."

Confusion swept over the crew as they exchanged bewildered glances.

Zoro's keen gaze wandered to the opposite wall, where he noticed a collection of wanted posters hanging in a row. Nami's face stared back at him from each one, her bountiful exploits and mischievous smile immortalized in ink.

Robin, ever perceptive, approached Gideon with a calm demeanor. "Gideon-san, may I ask for an explanation?" she inquired, her tone measured and curious.

Gideon's gaze shifted from Nami to Robin, his eyes still shimmering with unshed tears. He took a deep breath, collecting his thoughts. With emotions still raw, he moved to the table in the center of the room and picked up a small, worn-out drawing. The paper crinkled under his touch, its edges frayed from years of careful preservation.

Gideon held the drawing tenderly, as if it were a precious relic from a bygone era. The paper depicted a newborn girl, her delicate features captured in strokes of faded ink. Her tiny form nestled in a loving embrace, surrounded by adoring parents who gazed down at her with tenderness.

The elder extended his arm and passed the drawing to the crew, starting with Luffy. The rubbery captain's eyes widened as he studied the image. He then handed it to Usopp, who examined it with curiosity. The drawing continued its journey, passing through the hands of Chopper, Jinbe, Robin Franky, and Brook, each member of the crew captivated by the significance of the moment captured on paper.

Finally, the drawing reached Zoro, who accepted it with a solemn expression. His calloused fingers traced the contours of the child's face, his gaze steady and contemplative.

"This...this is Calista Zephyt," Gideon said, his voice trembling with emotion. "She is the daughter of the late Queen Aurora Zephyt and King Amias Arvanitis, rulers of Emerald City."

Robin's eyes widened in surprise, her curiosity piqued. "Emerald City? That's a place from legends, a kingdom shrouded in mystery," she interjected with intrigue.

Gideon nodded, his gaze fixed on the drawing that was handed back to him. "Indeed, it was a kingdom renowned for its prosperity and magical traditions," he explained, nostalgic. "But tragedy struck when the queen's own sister, driven by jealousy and ambition, orchestrated a coup. She murdered the king and queen, seizing the throne for herself."

The crew gasped in disbelief, their minds struggling to comprehend the depths of treachery that unfolded in Emerald City.

Gideon continued, his voice growing more somber. "Knowing that young Calista would be in danger, a group of loyal allies and I devised a plan. We sent her away, to the far reaches of the East Blue, where she would be safe from the clutches of her aunt and those who sought her demise."

His voice wavered as he revealed the unfortunate turn of events. "However, our plan went awry. Pirates descended upon the island where Calista was hidden, and amidst their clash with the Marines, she was taken away."

Zoro, Usopp and Sanji eschanged glances. That particular piece of the story sounded familiar.

"In her anger and desperation, Calista's aunt, the very same who orchestrated the coup, cast the Umbra Curse upon this very island. It is a curse intended to ensure that Calista will never be able to return home and claim her rightful place on the throne." Gideon continued, "Every witch who steps in this unfortunate island encounters agonizing death."

Gideon's words hung in the air, the weight of the curse casting a dark atmosphere over the room.

"Wait a minute," Usopp interjected, his voice tinged with hope. "So if Nami is still alive does that mean she's not a witch?"

The old man smiled as he listened to Usopp's question. He took a step closer to Nami, eyes flashing with pride.

"You're partially right, my dear boy," Gideon began. "Nami, the vibrant and cunning navigator of the Straw Hat Pirates, is not just a witch. She is Calista Zephyt herself, the Witch Princess of Emerald City."

The crew erupted in a chorus of gasps and exclamations, their eyes locked on Nami, who lay peacefully on the couch, unaware of the storm of emotions and secrets swirling around her.

Zoro's mind raced as the weight of Gideon's revelation settled upon him, he was perplexed. He looked around at his crewmates, their eyes wide with disbelief and awe. Sanji's jaw dropped, his cigarette nearly falling from his lips. Robin wore a thoughtful expression. Franky pumped his metal fist in excitement. Jinbe's stoic face held a hint of admiration, and Brook's skeletal features displayed surprise and excitement.

Amidst the gasps and exclamations, he noticed Usopp's expression turning from hope to fear. The long-nosed sniper took a step back, his voice trembling with concern.

"A-a witch? Nami is a witch?" Usopp stuttered, his eyes darting between Gideon and Nami. "Does that mean she has powers we don't know about? Is she dangerous?"

Chopper looked up at Usopp with wide eyes. "B-but witches aren't all bad, Usopp! I mean, remember Kureha? People called her a witch, but she was nice!"

Luffy, always straightforward and unyielding, grinned widely. "So Nami is a princess, just like Vivi! That's cool! Does that mean we can go on another adventure to help her reclaim her kingdom?"

Zoro's attention returned to Nami, lying there innocently, unaware of her true identity and the destiny that awaited her. The gravity of the situation began to sink in, and his gaze hardened. He couldn't help but recall the countless times Nami had displayed incredible skills and knowledge, navigating treacherous waters and outsmarting enemies with a cunning that seemed almost supernatural. The pieces of her past were falling into place, revealing a deeper truth about the woman who had become an integral part of their crew and their lives.

Robin stepped forward, studying the elder. "Gideon-san, you have shared with us the story of Emerald City and the curse that befell it. But what role do you play in all of this? How do you fit into the tapestry of Nami's past?"

Gideon's weathered face softened. He took a deep breath, as if preparing himself to unveil another layer of the intricate tale.

"I am the father of Queen Aurora Zephyt, Nami's grandfather," Gideon revealed, his voice filled with a lifetime of regrets and determination. "When the coup occurred, I was hidden away in this very house, which served as a secret base for the Emerald City's royalty. The enchantments placed upon it made it impossible for Aurora's sister to find me."

He glanced around the room, his gaze lingering on the walls that held the whispers of the past. "For years, I waited here, patiently, knowing that one day, Calista's destiny would call her. I dedicated my time to creating a potion, one that could make her survive the curse and aid her in her journey to reclaim her rightful place as the Witch Princess." He moved to the wall where Nami's wanted posters were hanging. "Two years ago I saw this," he pointed to the older poster, "and instantly recognized her." His voice grew softer as he continued, "I was struck by how much she resembled her mother, my sweet Aurora. The same captivating eyes, the same spirited smile. It was as if Aurora's spirit had been reincarnated in Calista's form."

Franky, his mechanical arms flexing with anticipation, spoke up with a curious expression on his face. "So, this aunt of Nami-sis... Is she still ruling Emerald City?"

Gideon's gaze turned distant, memories of the past resurfacing in his mind. "Seraphina, yes. She is Aurora's twin sister, but their paths diverged when jealousy and darkness consumed Seraphina's heart. After seizing power through the coup, she declared herself the ruler of Emerald City. For years, she has held the kingdom in her iron grip, suppressing its magic and exploiting its resources for her own gain."

Sanji, his brow furrowing with indignation, interjected, "And what about the people? Are they aware that Nami is alive and the injustice that has befallen their rightful ruler?"

Gideon sighed heavily with sorrow. "No, my dear. Seraphina has kept the truth hidden from the people, weaving a web of deception and fear to maintain her control. She has established a dictatorial regime, where questioning her authority is strictly forbidden. The majority of the citizens are unaware of Nami's existence and the injustice that has befallen their rightful ruler. They live in fear, suppressed by Seraphina's rule and manipulated by her propaganda."

Robin,with concern, asked, "What about those who are aware of the truth? The loyal supporters of the true royal family?"

Gideon's expression grew grim. "They are the outlaws of Emerald City, my dear. Those who refused to accept Seraphina as the queen and remained faithful to Aurora's memory and the rightful line of succession. They live in hiding, away from the prying eyes of Seraphina's enforcers."

"That's awful." Chopper lamented.

Jinbe, added with empathy "This is certainly a heavy burden for Nami to bear. Discovering her true identity and the plight of her kingdom all at once will surely be overwhelming."

"You are right, boy. Nami will need time to process this revelation. She won't be awake for several hours, as the effects of the potion take hold. In the meantime, could you provide me with knowledge about my granddaughter's life and adventures? I have been in the dark for so long, and I wish to understand the person she has become."

The crew members exchanged glances, realizing the importance of Gideon's request. They began recounting stories of their adventures with Nami, painting a vivid picture of her strength, intelligence, and unwavering determination. They spoke of her skills as a navigator, her cunning negotiations, and her solid loyalty to her friends. They shared tales of her bravery in the face of danger, her resolve to protect her crew, and her endless pursuit of her dreams.

Gideon listened intently, his eyes lighting up with pride and love as he absorbed every detail, eager to connect the stories with the young woman who lay before him. The crew's words painted a picture of a remarkable individual, one who had grown and flourished in the face of adversity.

Zoro found himself reflecting on his own experiences with Nami. While he wasn't one to dwell on the past, certain moments had left a lasting impression on him. One memory stood out vividly in his mind—their reunion on the island of Zou.

He recalled Nami's appearance on that day, dressed in a stunning purple dress that was a National Treasure of the Mokomo Dukedom. The vibrant color accentuated her beauty, making her appear regal and elegant. Zoro couldn't help but admit to himself that she looked absolutely gorgeous, resembling royalty herself.

Although Zoro wasn't one to be swayed by appearances, he couldn't deny the impact Nami's presence had on him. Her grace, combined with her unshakable strength and determination, had always captivated him. It was moments like these that reminded him of the depth and complexity of the woman he had come to admire and respect.

Shaking off his brief reverie, Zoro refocused his attention on the present, knowing that dwelling on the past wouldn't change the path they now faced. He silently vowed to support Nami as she navigated the challenges ahead, just as she had always been there for him and the rest of the crew.


Nami was happy to be on her childhood home on Cocoyasi Village. The warm sea breeze brushed against her face as she took in the familiar sights and sounds. The smell of mikans filled her nose and she sighed in contentment.

But something felt amiss.

As she entered the house, she discovered herself frozen in place, unable to move or speak. Her heart pounded with dread. And then, she saw her older-sister-like figure, standing before her, her expression twisted with malice.

Nami's eyes widened in shock and horror as the woman's hand was stained with blood. Belle-mére, Nami and Nojiko's adoptive mother, lay lifeless on the ground, her body cold and unmoving. It was a sight that Nami had witnessed years ago, but the pain and anguish felt fresh and raw.

Tears welled up in Nami's eyes as she tried desperately to scream, to intervene, but her voice remained silent. She was trapped within the confines of this strange reality, forced to witness the tragedy unfold once again. The weight of her loss and the enormity of her past started to crush her spirit, threatening to engulf her.

Nami's emotions raged, a tempest of grief, anger, and helplessness.

"Belle-mère!" Nami's eyes flickered open, her breaths coming in short, rapid gasps as she tried to steady herself. As her vision cleared, she found herself in a dimly lit room, surrounded by familiar faces. Zoro, Robin, and Franky stood by her side, their concerned expressions reflecting the worry they felt for their navigator.

She glanced around the room, her eyes falling upon the aged wooden walls adorned with faded tapestries, the flickering candle casting a soft glow in the otherwise shadowed space. Sitting up, Nami noticed a tray of untouched food on the nearby nightstand, evidence of her friends' thoughtfulness.

Zoro leaned forward slightly, his voice filled with a rare softness. "Are you alright?"

Nami nodded, her voice slightly shaky. "I... I had a dream. It was about... Belle-mére."

Robin's gentle voice interjected, "You were calling out her name when you woke up. It must have been a painful memory resurfacing."

Nami shook her head, not wanting to remember the dream. "Where are we?"

"Whe're at the elder's house, Sis. The one the healer told us about. We made it and he gave you a potion so you could feel SUPER again." Franky gave her a thumbs up.

"Where is he?"

"He's in the kitchen with the rest of the crew, having dinner." Robin explained.

Everything seemed fine, but something felt off.

"What was the problem with me, anyways? I feel much better." Nami said yawning. Her friends exchanged worried looks and Nami arched one brow. "What?" She asked confused.

Zoro hesitated for a moment before speaking, his gaze locked with hers. "Nami, there's something important we need to tell you. But we wanted to wait until you were fully awake and feeling better."

Nami's eyes narrowed, concern flashing across her face. "What is it? What's going on?"

Franky's eyes welled up with tears, and he turned away, struggling to contain his emotions. "I...I'll have to leave, but I swear I'm not crying!" he choked out, his voice breaking. Without another word, he hastily left the room.

Nami's concern deepened as she watched Franky's abrupt departure. "What's wrong with him? Why is he crying?"

Zoro took a deep breath, his gaze fixed on the floor. "Nami, the elder we met, Gideon, he revealed something... something that changes everything."


A/N: Hello, there!

I couldn't wait until saturday to post!

We got to some important points on this chapter and I know it seems somehow hushed, too much information condensed, but in the next chapter we'll work that weight out better. We'll soon be heading to Emerald City! Yay! Can't wait to write it!

Hope you all enjoy it and tell me what you think!

Bye.