Disclaimer: I do not own One Piece.
THE LEGACY OF THE WITCHES
Nami sat alone on the porch of Gideon's house, her mind engulfed in a tempest of conflicting emotions. Night had fallen, casting a cloak of darkness over the island. The glow of the candle on the small table in front of her provided little comfort against the shadows that loomed large.
The stories told by her friends seemed like fragments of a distant fairy tale, too extraordinary to be real. She struggled to believe that she was the descendant of royalty, the daughter of Queen Aurora Zephyt, that her blood carried the legacy of a kingdom she never knew existed. It all seemed surreal and impossible to grasp. It clashed with the life she had always known, the life of a pirate navigating the vast seas, fighting for her dreams and freedom.
She questioned the authenticity of the stories she had heard, wondering if they were mere fabrications or part of an elaborate scheme. It seemed too extraordinary, too convenient, that she would suddenly be thrust into the role of a long-lost princess. The weight of responsibility and the burden of expectations threatened to suffocate her.
Was she truly meant to inherit a kingdom? Or was this all a ploy to manipulate her, to use her as a pawn in some hidden agenda? The flickering candle's light wavered, as if acknowledging the doubts that plagued her thoughts.
Her mind began to wander through the memories of her past, trying to find any hidden clues that could validate or debunk this revelation. But everything she remembered felt ordinary and devoid of any regal significance.
Nami's thoughts drifted back to her time with the notorious Arlong and the Arlong Pirates, the painful chapter in her life that she had fought so hard to overcome. She wondered if Arlong had known something about her origins, if he had sensed that there was more to her abilities than met the eye. His obsession with her navigation skills and his insistence on exploiting her talents suddenly took on a new light.
Arlong's words echoed in her mind, his taunts and jeers. "Why waste your talent on this pathetic village? You're capable of so much more, Nami. Join me, and help me conquer the world."
Had he seen glimpses of her hidden potential, the power that lay dormant within her bloodline? Or was it simply his own greed, seeking to manipulate her for his own gain? The answers eluded her, buried within the depths of a unpleasant past.
And then there was Gideon, the grandfather she had never met. He professed to be her family, having awaited her arrival for so long, concealed within the confines of this secluded abode. For now, she kept her distance, sensing that he understood her inner turmoil. It was a peculiar notion, to connect with a biological family member whom she had never known. It felt as though a veil had been lifted, unveiling an entirely new facet of her existence. But could she trust the veracity of this revelation?
Nami's train of thought was interrupted by the sound of Zoro's boots on the wooden porch as he approached. She looked up to see him stepping out of the house, his presence simultaneously bringing comfort and nervousness.
Zoro settled down next to her, a half-amused, half-serious glint in his eyes. "You know," he began, his voice a low rumble that lightened the air, "Most of the time I've called you a witch for your weather-controlling abilities, but who would've thought you'd turn out to be a princess with some hocus-pocus in yor blood."
Nami let out a soft chuckle, grateful for his attempt to lighten the mood. "Yeah, right? It's all a bit too fantastical to wrap my head around."
"Well, I've witnessed you work wonders with the weather, so maybe there's a shred of truth to it," Zoro remarked, a playful smirk gracing his lips.
Nami gazed at Zoro, her heart filled with gratitude as the dancing shadows cast by the candle's light accentuated the contours of his face. There was an undeniable allure in his rugged and handsome appearance, intensified by the memory of the morning sun gently touching his features. She longed to reach out and feel the warmth of his skin against hers.
Their eyes locked, and time seemed to stand still. Zoro's gaze held a depth that surpassed words, an unspoken understanding that resonated with the walls she had erected around herself. It was as if he could see past the pain and uncertainty that burdened her heart.
"Witch," he uttered, his voice laced with husky seriousness, a hint of something more. Nami's heart skipped a beat in response. The atmosphere around them shifted, the tension growing thicker as her emotions hung heavy in the air.
Unconsciously, Nami's fingers traced intricate patterns on the wooden bench beneath them, her body reacting to the proximity of Zoro beside her, even as her mind remained lost in thought. In a momentary lapse, her hand accidentally brushed against his finger, sending a surge of electricity through her veins.
A flush of embarrassment tinged Nami's cheeks as she hastily withdrew her hand, clasping it tightly in her lap.
Clearing her throat, Nami shifted her gaze away from Zoro, aware of the need to change the subject and distract herself from the electric current that had passed between them.
"You know," she began, her voice slightly shaky, "I actually heard about Emerald City before. Back when we were in Jaya, Bellamy mentioned it briefly."
Zoro's interest piqued, and he turned his attention fully towards the conversation. "Bellamy? That stupid guy from the pirate crew we crossed paths with?"
Nami nodded, grateful for the shift in focus. "Yes, him. He mentioned it in passing, making fun of those who believed it's existence."
Zoro leaned back against the bench, contemplating her words. "If it does exist, it must be quite the sight to behold. A city of emeralds... sounds like the kind of place that would attract all sorts of trouble."
As Nami and Zoro delved deeper into their discussion about Emerald City, a sudden burst of excitement shattered the tranquility of the porch. Luffy, Chopper, and Usopp emerged from the house with hushed urgency, their eyes brimming with anticipation. They beckoned Nami and Zoro to join them, their gazes fixed upon the darkened sky.
"What's going on?" Nami asked, intrigued by their sudden behavior.
"We asked Gideon where Emerald City is," Luffy explained with his signature grin. "And he told us to come outside and look at the sky!"
Curious, Nami and Zoro joined their friends, their eyes scanning the darkened night sky for any sign of what Gideon might have meant. The stars couldn't been seen, but there seemed to be something different, something unusual amidst the thick clouds.
Suddenly, as if the fabric of magic had been woven into existence, a vibrant green light pierced through the veils of cloud. It was a sight to behold, a luminescent glow that danced with ethereal grace and shimmered within the misty embrace of the night.
Gasps of awe escaped Chopper's lips as his eyes widened with childlike wonder. "Wow, would you look at that!" he exclaimed.
Usopp couldn't contain his excitement. "That's it! It must be Emerald City! The legendary city of emeralds!"
Nami couldn't believe her eyes. The sight before her was breathtaking and mysterious. The green light that illuminated the clouds carried an otherworldly aura, like a beacon calling out to them, inviting them to embark on a new adventure.
Luffy's grin widened. "Let's go there, guys! I bet there are tons of exciting things waiting for us!"
Nami's voice trailed off, a whisper of amazement escaping her lips. "A sky island?" she murmured to herself, her thoughts brimming with the possibility of enchanting realms beyond the clouds.
Nami took a deep breath as she stepped into the house after her crewmates, her heart pounding with anticipation. The atmosphere inside enveloped her in warmth and comfort, infused with the inviting aroma of delectable home-cooked meals and the symphony of laughter echoing through the air. Her friends had settled in various corners of the living area, making themselves at ease amidst the cozy ambiance.
Luffy was already fast asleep, nestled amidst a mountain of plush pillows on the floor, drooling as he talked about "magic meat". Zoro sat by the side of the fireplace, his intense gaze fixed upon the dancing flames, a silent vigilance emanating from him. Sanji's presence wafted from the kitchen, his culinary expertise at work. Jinbei's voice could be heard from there too.
As her gaze swept across the room, she spotted Robin, seated gracefully, savoring a cup of tea, her serene countenance hinting at the depths of her contemplation. By her side, Brook, joined in the tranquility, a haunting melody escaping from his trusty violin. And there, peacefully slumbering next to Luffy, lay Franky, his rhythmic snores adding a touch of joviality to the scene, complimented by Usopp and Chopper's fervor as they discussed the vision they saw in the sky.
But it was Gideon who captivated Nami's attention, seated in a plush armchair near the fireplace. His gentle smile radiated warmth, and his eyes sparkled with fondness and curiosity as he observed the vibrant activity unfolding in the room. Despite the weathered lines etched upon his features, a striking resemblance to Nami affirmed the undeniable connection they shared.
As Nami approached him, her steps measured and deliberate, she became acutely aware of the intricate details that adorned the room. Paintings adorned the walls, intricate brushstrokes capturing breathtaking landscapes and tales of seafaring adventures. The shelves lining one wall overflowed with an extensive collection of books, a testament to the wisdom and knowledge Gideon had acquired over the years. It was a haven steeped in history, brimming with memories and stories just waiting to be heard.
In that fragile instant, a flicker of hope danced within Nami—an ember of possibility that this encounter held the key to unlocking the truths she so desperately sought. Yet, she couldn't help but tread cautiously, the heaviness of her apprehension anchoring her steps.
Nami swallowed the lump in her throat, her vulnerability on full display, as she mustered the courage to speak. "I... I apologize for storming out earlier. It's just... the weight of everything was too much to bear. I needed time to process it all," she confessed.
The crew members, attuned to the gravity of the moment, fell into a hushed silence, allowing Nami the space to navigate this vital conversation. She took her seat across from Gideon, her gaze searching for any trace of the truths she longed to uncover.
Gideon's hand extended, resting gently upon Nami's, offering a comforting touch that spoke volumes. His touch grounded her amidst the sea of emotions. "There's no need to apologize, my dear. I understand the overwhelming nature of the revelations you've been confronted with. Processing such information takes time. I'm just grateful that you have returned," he reassured her.
Nami's mind buzzed with anticipation as she gathered her thoughts, ready to delve deeper into the enigmatic past that had been spread before her. Her voice trembled slightly as she began, "Well, for starters, I'm incredibly curious about you, Gideon. Who exactly are you?"
Gideon's smile widened, a glimmer of excitement in his eyes. "Ah, my dear, my life has been a tapestry woven with threads of adventure and exploration. You see, I've always been drawn to the mysteries that shroud our world—the hidden treasures, the ancient wisdom waiting to be unraveled."
Leaning back in his chair, Gideon's gaze turned distant, as if he were lost in the memories of bygone times. "I dedicated myself to the pursuit of magical artifacts and rare treasures. I traversed vast distances, delving into forgotten ruins, deciphering ancient texts, and seeking out the remnants of our ancient kingdom. My insatiable thirst for knowledge and my burning desire to safeguard our heritage led me on countless extraordinary journeys."
Nami's eyes widened, and her gasp escaped involuntarily, betraying her voracious appetite for treasure. "Rare treasures?!" she exclaimed, her voice brimming with excitement and curiosity.
Gideon chuckled affectionately, understanding Nami's insatiable thirst for treasure. "Ah, it seems the apple doesn't fall far from the tree," he remarked, a mischievous twinkle in his eyes. Laughter rippled through the room as the crew joined in, lightening the heavy atmosphere. It was a delightful moment that brought a sense of ease to the tension.
"Yes, my dear, the yearning for rare treasures runs deep in our blood. It is a family trait, passed down through the generations," Gideon affirmed, acknowledging the shared passion that coursed through their veins.
Nami's eyes sparkled with an effervescent mix of awe and wonder. The realization that treasure hunting was a part of her ancestral legacy ignited a fire within her. Her mind swirled with questions, each demanding attention. However, one inquiry emerged prominently from the depths of her curiosity.
"Gideon, tell me more about my parents, Queen Aurora and King Amias, please." Nami implored.
Gideon's expression softened, and a touch of nostalgia danced in his eyes. "Your parents were extraordinary individuals, Nami. Queen Aurora was the sweetest person you could ever meet. She possessed a gentle spirit and a kind heart that touched the lives of everyone around her. She had a gift for drawing and painting that was unparalleled in the kingdom. Her artwork could capture the very essence of nature's beauty, and she used her talents to bring joy and inspiration to the people."
He continued, "But that was not her only gift. Like I heard you do, she possessed the ability to predict the weather, and she used this power to ensure the safety and prosperity of the kingdom. The sailors and fishermen revered her, for her predictions saved countless lives and guided their voyages."
Nami listened attentively, finally getting a glimpse of the mother she had never known.
"And your father, King Amias," Gideon continued, "was an esteemed and honored warrior. He was not only a remarkable swordsman, but he also had unmatched strategizing skills. He led our people with wisdom and courage, and his dedication to protecting the kingdom was unparalleled. He was a noble and just king, beloved by all who knew him."
Nami felt a lump forming in her throat, emotions racing within her as she imagined the kind of parents she had lost.
Chopper approached Nami with a warm smile and touched her leg with his tiny hoof. "Nami, it seems like you inherited the best of both your parents!"
Nami nodded in response to Chopper's words, appreciating his heartfelt observation. She felt honored knowing that she carried the traits of her extraordinary parents within her.
Biting her lip nervously, Nami gathered her courage and continued with her next question. "Gideon, I have to ask... about the whole witch thing. Is it true? Am I really a witch?"
Gideon met Nami's gaze, his eyes shimmering with understanding. He leaned forward, his voice soft yet resolute. "Nami, my dear, the legends hold a kernel of truth. The notion of witches is not mere folklore but a legacy woven deep within the fabric of our lineage. And yes, you are a witch."
Nami's heart skipped a beat at the confirmation. She had always believed her weather-predicting abilities were exceptional, but to be labeled as a witch, a bearer of ancient and mystical power, felt both awe-inspiring and overwhelming.
Gideon continued, "Emerald City, my dear, is not just a mythical place. It is the cradle of our lineage, a sanctuary where the lineage of witches flourishes. It is a realm where our ancestors, all queens, have nurtured and honed their magical gifts. And you, Nami, possess the most powerful and rare manifestation of this magical bloodline."
Nami's eyes widened, her mind struggling to comprehend the enormity of Gideon's words. She had always felt a unique connection to nature, an unspoken understanding that transcended ordinary comprehension. The realization that this connection was tied to her magical ancestry filled her with a newfound sense of purpose and wonder.
Gideon leaned even closer, his eyes filled with pride and reverence. "Only women in our lineage carry the magical blood, Nami. It is a sacred gift, a unique connection to the very essence of nature itself. Witches possess the ability to commune with the elements, to shape and harness their power. Your talents in weather manipulation, my dear, are a testament to the extraordinary depths of your magical prowess."
Nami's mind reeled, the revelation leaving her stunned. She had never imagined that her abilities were rooted in something as extraordinary as witchcraft. The realization that she belonged to a lineage of powerful witches, with a deep connection to nature and the elements, shook the foundation of her understanding of herself.
Surprise mingled with disbelief on Nami's face as she processed Gideon's words. She had always believed her navigational skills and weather predictions to be a result of her own keen observations and intuition. To consider them as manifestations of a magical birthright seemed almost too incredible to comprehend.
Her gaze shifted to her crewmates, who had been listening intently to Gideon's explanation. Their eyes mirrored her own astonishment. It was clear that this revelation had reshaped their perception of Nami, adding an even greater sense of mystique to her already remarkable presence among the Straw Hat Pirates.
Her thoughts turned to a darker aspect of her family's history, and she mustered the courage to ask Gideon about her aunt—the evil witch who had played a tragic role in the loss of her parents.
"Gideon," Nami began, her voice tinged with apprehension, "I've heard about my aunt, the witch who took my parents' lives. Can you shed some light on her? Who was she, and why did she do such a terrible thing?"
Gideon's expression turned somber. He leaned back in his chair.
"Nami, my dear, your aunt, Seraphina," Gideon spoke with a heavy sigh. "She was once a cherished member of our lineage, blessed with great magical potential. But as time passed, Seraphina's heart became consumed by darkness and jealousy. She sought power and control above all else, using her gifts for nefarious purposes."
Nami listened intently, her heart aching at the revelation of her aunt's descent into darkness.
Gideon continued, his voice dripping with remorse. "Seraphina's jealousy towards your parents, Aurora and Amias, consumed her. She believed that their rightful place on the throne should have been hers, and she resented the love and adoration they received from the people and each other. In her twisted pursuit of power, she made a pact with dark forces, delving into forbidden magics that corrupted her soul."
Gideon's eyes carried sadness as he shared the next piece of the story. "It is a tragic irony, Nami, that Seraphina and Aurora were twins. They shared a bond that should have been unbreakable, but Seraphina allowed jealousy to poison her heart and twist her actions."
Nami's brows furrowed in disbelief. The concept of sisters turned enemies seemed almost unimaginable to her. The thought of a twin sister harboring such darkness and resentment left her feeling a profound sorrow.
Gideon continued, "as the older twin, Seraphina believed that she should have been the one to inherit the throne and wield the power that came with it. But destiny had a different path in store. Aurora, your mother, was chosen to become queen, blessed with a pure heart and an innate connection to the forces of nature."
Gideon's gaze held Nami's, a glimmer of hope shining through his eyes. "Nami, my dear child, you are the key to breaking the cycle that has plagued our family for generations. Seraphina's reign of darkness persists to this day, and only you possess the potential to bring an end to her destructive legacy."
Nami's eyes widened in disbelief and fear, her mind racing with the weight of the revelation. The thought of confronting her own aunt, someone consumed by darkness and driven by jealousy, sent shivers down her spine. Her scaredy-cat persona, always quick to worry and hesitate, took hold of her.
"N-No, Gideon," Nami stammered, her voice trembling. "I... I don't know if I'm capable of facing Seraphina. I don't think I'm strong enough!"
Gideon's expression softened, his voice filled with compassion. "Nami, my dear, I understand your fears. But remember, you possess a power within you that is unique and unparalleled. It is a power born from love, compassion, and the connection to nature itself. You have the strength to overcome this darkness, but you must believe in yourself."
Nami's hands trembled as doubt gnawed at her, the weight of her impending battle threatening to crush her spirit.
Just as Nami's doubt reached its peak, a familiar voice broke through the tension. "Nami!" Luffy's voice boomed, filled with unwavering determination. "Let's kick your aunt's ass!"
Nami turned to see Luffy standing tall, his eyes burning with resolve. His usual carefree grin had transformed into a determined expression that sent a surge of courage through her veins. The room was filled with the presence of their crewmates, who had gathered together to support Nami in this crucial moment.
Zoro stood at Luffy's side, his face etched with resolution. Sanji, lightening his cigarette, leaned against the wall, his eyes smoldering with a fiery determination that matched the flames before him.
Robin stood calmly, her serene gaze fixed on Nami. Her knowledge and insight offered a steadying presence, as if assuring Nami that she was not alone in this battle. Franky flexed his biceps, his mechanical enhancements gleaming in the soft light, a testament to his support.
Chopper hopped excitedly, his tiny form brimming with enthusiasm and courage. Usopp nodded, his gaze comprehensive.
Brook, with his trademark skull grin, strummed his guitar, filling the room with a emotive melody that echoed with will power. And lastly, Jinbe, his towering presence commanding respect, offered a calm and steady anchor amidst the storm.
The room was a tapestry of determination and unbreakable bonds, each member of the Straw Hat Pirates standing united, ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead. Nami's gaze swept across her crewmates, her heart swelling with gratitude.
Drawing a deep breath, Nami turned back to Gideon, her voice filled with resolve that resonated Luffy's. "Gideon, how can we defeat Seraphina?"
The navigator looked outside the window of the bedroom she was sharing with Robin, her eyes fixed on the mist surrounding the house.
The room itself exuded a sense of tranquility and elegance, with plush bedding and intricate tapestries adorning the walls. A soft glow emanated from the bedside lamps, casting a warm ambiance throughout the space.
But Nami couldn't fully immerse herself in the comfort of her surroundings. Her mind was consumed by the seriousness of Gideon's revelations, and the disclosure that her aunt, Seraphine, held dominion over a formidable army composed of men, giants, chernobogs, cyclops, elves, and various other mystical creatures. The magnitude of the threat Seraphine posed resonated deeply within Nami's thoughts.
She knew that brute force alone would not be enough to defeat her intimidating aunt. Seraphine possessed a power that could only be countered by magic—a force Nami was only beginning to comprehend and harness.
Nami's eyes flicked towards the thick grimoire that lay open on the desk, its pages filled with ancient spells and incantations. Piles of maps, scrolls, and ancient tomes lay strewn with it. She knew that she had to study the depths of her magical abilities, to tap into the wellspring of power that lay dormant within her and Gideon didn't flinch to provide her those documents.
Nami's gaze shifted to Robin, who sat at the bed, her eyes focused intently on a book. Nami felt a surge of appreciation for her intelligent and resourceful crewmate.
She approached the bed and took a seat next to the older woman, the weight of her thoughts evident in her furrowed brow.
Robin glanced up from her book, her gaze gentle and inquisitive. "How are you feeling, Nami?" The archeologist asked, her voice calm and soothing.
Nami hesitated for a moment, contemplating her response. She knew that pretending to be fearless would be a disservice to herself and her friend. "I'm scared," she admitted, her voice tinged with vulnerability. "The enormity of what we're up against... it's overwhelming. I don't know if I'm ready to face Seraphine and her army of creatures. I don't even know if I have what it takes to wield magic effectively."
Robin studied Nami for a moment, her expression thoughtful. "Is there something else that has been bothering you, Nami? Something that has been on your mind even before we arrived on this island?"
Nami's heart skipped a beat, her mind racing with the memories of their time in Wano. She knew exactly what Robin was referring to—the lingering unease that had settled within her ever since they left the Land of Samurai. The peculiar way she acted, the complicated emotions that stirred within her whenever Zoro was near. Nami sensed that Robin may have noticed the shifts in her behavior, and a part of her longed to confide in her friend.
But the navigator's natural instinct for self-preservation kicked in, causing her to divert the conversation away from her own emotional turmoil. She evaded Robin's question, "No, nothing at all." She got up from the bed, returning to the spot by the window, unwilling to confront the tangled web of emotions that had woven itself around her.
As she gazed outside, her eyes fell upon Zoro and Jinbei, their figures illuminated by the weak moonlight. They stood a short distance away from the house, engaged in a serious conversation. Nami observed their interaction, her thoughts drifting to the one who had once been nothing more than a perpetual thorn in her side. The swordsman who had pissed her off countless times, who had pushed her buttons and tested her patience, had taken the sharp edges of his stubbornness and carved his way into her heart.
Nami's brown iris drifted to three swords resting on Zoro's waist, her attention drawned by the purple sheat of Enma. Her thoughts involuntarily wandered to the person responsible for bestowing him with such a remarkable weapon—Hiyori, the beautiful daughter of the legendary Kozuki Oden. Nami often wondered about the depth of their connection, the moments they had shared, and if there was unspoken emotions that lingered between them.
The flames of jealousy licked at the corners of Nami's mind, igniting insecurities and fears.
She knew that allowing such emotions to consume her would only hinder their journey and the unity of their crew.
With a resolute shake of her head, she made a conscious decision to put aside these feelings and focus on what truly mattered—the task at hand.
Nami made her way to the desk, her fingertips tracing the worn edges of the maps and scrolls that lay before her. This was a crucial moment, a turning point in their journey, and she needed to be fully prepared.
When Zoro stepped outside of the house, his mind was filled with a whirlwind of thoughts. The weight of their impending battle with Seraphine, coupled with the mysteries of Emerald City and Nami's newfound magical abilities left him afflicted, to say the least.
But amidst the chaos inside his head, a sense of tranquility washed over him as he stood beside his Fishman crewmate. Jinbei's calm presence brought a measure of reassurance to Zoro.
It took only few words for them to come to terms with the situation.
"We'll have to push her to her limits." Zoro's words hung in the air. Jinbei nodded in agreement, his eyes reflecting a shared understanding. They both knew that pushing Nami to her limits was necessary for her to unlock the full potential of her magical abilities.
"We'll need to create a training regimen that challenges her in a similar way to how one masters Haki," Jinbei suggested, his voice calm yet decisive. "Nami's magic might require a similar level of discipline and mastery."
Zoro's brows furrowed as he contemplated Jinbei's words. He understood the parallels between mastering Haki and unlocking Nami's magical potential. Both required discipline, focus, and a deep connection with one's inner self.
"You're right," Zoro finally replied, his voice steady. The wheels on his mind already turning as he tought about which methods would suit Nami better.
The men spent the next minutes discussing and strategizing Nami's training regimen, determined to help her reach new heights with her magical abilities. They agreed that a combination of physical and mental exercises would be essential to push her boundaries.
As Zoro and Jinbei delved deeper into their discussion, a third presence made itself known. Gideon, his silent steps stopping a little ahead of the other two, his gaze fixed on the black sky.
"You speak of pushing boundaries and unlocking potential," te old man began, his voice sleepy, yet eerie. "But remember, my friends, that power unchecked can become a dangerous weapon. Like a raging storm, it can wreak havoc and leave destruction in its wake." He turned around to face them, letting a smile decorate his face as he played with his long beard. "But I have faith in the Straw Hats!"
A/N: Hello, there!
We're reeeally close from Emerald City now! What do you guys expect from it?
If you haven't noticed, I'm kinda addicted to creating tension between Nami and Zoro, but soon we'll be seeing a shift in this dynamic!
As for Seraphine's army and the magical aspect of the story, I won't be focusing on a specific myth/culture/religion. I'll blend some of my favorite studies and researches, always letting you know the inspiration!
Excited to read your thoughts about this chapter!
Bye.
